In this episode, Team She Dreams of Alpine’s own Kellie Adkins—former park manager and field ecologist—dives into a hot topic that’s come up in our Backpacking Badass Program community: Should we still be visiting public lands right now?

With recent funding cuts, staff shortages, and even the illegal firing of federal employees making headlines this year, many outdoor lovers are left wondering: Is it helpful or harmful to keep showing up?

Kellie draws on her experience managing over 700 acres of parkland to give you the full scoop on what’s going on behind the scenes—and how you can continue to adventure responsibly, support public lands, and stay safe out there this season.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• What’s really going on with parks staffing and budgets this year
• The unseen and visible impacts visitors might notice
• Ways to support public lands—whether or not you visit
• Why being self-sufficient on trail matters more than ever
• How to be the kind of hiker park staff love to see

If you’re wondering how to be a more thoughtful and prepared outdoor adventurer in 2025, this episode is a must-listen.

Get our link to call your reps: Comment "REP" on any of our She Dreams of Alpine social media posts on Instagram or Facebook

Have questions for Kellie? Reach out at [email protected]

Learn more about your host, Allison (aka She Dreams of Alpine):

• She Dreams of Alpine Blog
• Instagram @shedreamsofalpine

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