Natalie's Dedication:

To The Kratt Brothers: Thank you for teaching me to love all animals and enjoy their company from a young age.

Episode Description:

In Part 2 of our conversation about Caprock Canyons State Park, Natalie takes us deeper into the spirit of the park, what visitors feel when they first see the canyon walls, how she would define Caprock in just three words, and why this landscape leaves such a lasting impression.

We spend time with the story of the Texas State Bison Herd, exploring how it came to Caprock, what makes it unique, and what daily herd management looks like behind the scenes. Natalie shares how staff balance visitor access with safety, the challenges the herd faces from drought and habitat pressures, and the powerful symbolism the bison hold for the park and for Texas itself, along with a few memorable moments that only come from working this closely with wildlife.

The conversation then moves onto Caprock’s trails and terrain, from the park’s extensive trail system and the historic Caprock Canyons Trailway to favorite overlooks, hidden gems, and recommendations for both first-time visitors and experienced hikers. We also cover trail safety, weather awareness, dog-friendly options, camping opportunities, and what guests should know before heading out into this rugged Panhandle environment.

We close by looking at conservation, how human impact affect Caprock, what the park is doing to protect its ecosystems, and the role visitors play in preserving this place for future generations. This episode is a grounded, thoughtful look at a park defined by resilience, stewardship, and wide-open space.

Part 2 of 2 — available now on Trailblazing Texas Podcast!

Natalie's Dedication:

To my kids: Thank you for showing me that being a creepy crawly loving, strange, awkward, opinionated, and weird person makes a good mom, and it makes creature loving conscious kids.

Episode Description: Caprock Canyons State Park (Part 1 of 2)

I’ve said it quietly before… but in this episode, I finally say it out loud. Caprock Canyons State Park is my absolute favorite Texas State Park, and this conversation explains why.

In Part 1 of this two-part series, I sit down with Interpretive Ranger Natalie, who knows Caprock from the inside out. We start with her journey into Texas Parks & Wildlife, what sparked their career, what led them to this rugged corner of the Panhandle, and how Caprock quickly becomes more than “just an assignment”.

We talk about first impressions and the moments that stop people in their tracks, the scale of the canyons, the silence, the unexpected beauty, and why Caprock feels so different from anywhere else in Texas. You’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at what a typical day looks like for park staff.

This is a personal one for me. If you’ve ever stood on the rim at Caprock, felt the wind cut through the canyon, or locked eyes with a bison on the trail, you’ll understand.

Part 2 drops next, where we go even deeper into trails, wildlife, visitor tips, and what makes Caprock a place people keep coming back to.

Message From the Host:

Hey friends, With this winter storm rolling through and a lot of us stuck inside, I wanted to drop a little something special for you.

This is a bonus preview from my conversation with Ranger Leah at Guadalupe Mountains National Park, about 30 minutes of stories, heart, and why this place means so much to both of us.

Think of it as a small trail treat while we wait out the cold.

And the best part? We’re recording Parts 3 and 4 this Monday, so there’s still a lot more Guadalupe magic coming your way.

Leah's Dedication and Favorite Quote:

I would like to dedicate this episode to my parents - Craig and Lili - who gave me life and love.

To my mentors - Brian and Miguel - who taught me how to be the best ranger I can be.

And finally to anyone who has ever fallen in love with the most beautiful mountains in the world - Guadalupe <3

"The idea of wilderness needs no defense, it only needs defenders." -Edward Abbey

Episode Description:

This one is special.

In Part 1 of this long-awaited conversation, I’m joined by my favorite ranger, Leah, from Guadalupe Mountains National Park, the place I’ve called my heaven on earth for years. And before we even get into trails or terrain, we share a moment that’s raw, honest, and a little emotional. Because this park, and the people who protect it, mean something real to both of us.

From there, we settle into a deeply personal conversation about what it means to serve a place like the Guadalupes. Leah shares how she first found her way into the National Park Service, what drew her specifically to these mountains, and what made her stay. We talk about what a fulfilling day as a ranger actually looks like, the behind-the-scenes work visitors rarely see, and the quiet moments, sounds, smells, and solitude, that make this park feel less like a job and more like home.

We also reflect on patrols, unforgettable visitor interactions, and whether that “wow” feeling ever fades when you work in a place this wild (spoiler: it doesn’t). Leah paints a picture of the park not just as a destination, but as a living, breathing landscape that continues to shape her, just as it has shaped me.

Then we turn outward to explore the park itself. Beyond Guadalupe Peak, we dig into lesser-known trails and areas that deserve more attention, the best “bang for your buck” hike that captures the true essence of the Guadalupes, and the magic of The Bowl—one of the most unique ecological pockets in West Texas. We also touch on geology, off-map curiosities experienced hikers whisper about, and how the ancient forces beneath your boots define every step you take here.

This episode isn’t just about a national park. It’s about connection, to land, to purpose, and to the people who protect the places that change us.

Emily's Dedication and Quote:

To my favorite park ranger and grandfather, Ed Day, who served as an interpreter and volunteer at Alibates Flint Quarries National Monument for over 50 years.

Dry words and dry facts will not fire hearts. In drying plants, botanists often dry themselves.

- John Muir

Episode Description: Balmorhea State Park

In this episode of the Trailblazing Texas Podcast, we head deep into West Texas to explore one of the most unexpected natural wonders in the state, Balmorhea State Park.

Known for its crystal-clear spring-fed waters, Balmorhea is home to the largest spring-fed swimming pool in the world and feels more like a desert oasis than a Texas state park. We dive into what makes this park so unique, from the history and geology behind San Solomon Springs to the rare aquatic life that depends on this fragile ecosystem.

We’ll talk about what visitors can expect when they arrive, the best times of year to visit, camping options, nearby adventures, and how to responsibly enjoy one of Texas’ most special natural resources. Whether you’re planning a swim, a camping trip, or a West Texas road trip, this episode will help you make the most of your visit.

If you think you’ve seen everything Texas State Parks have to offer, Balmorhea might just change your mind.

In part 2 of our conversation with Noah from Mission Tejas State Park, we shift our focus from history into the living, breathing experience of the park today, from wildlife and seasonal beauty to visitor tips, conservation efforts, and what the future holds for this uniquely Texan landscape.

Noah walks us through the kinds of wildlife guests might encounter while exploring the park, the times of year when Mission Tejas truly shines, and what nearby fishing or paddling opportunities can add to a visit. We also dive into the camping options available, whether you’re looking for a quiet tent site, a family-friendly stay, or a basecamp for exploring East Texas.

From there, the conversation turns practical. Noah shares essential advice for first-time visitors, highlights Leave No Trace principles that matter most in a historically sensitive park, explains pet policies, and talks about special programs, events, and reenactments that bring Mission Tejas to life throughout the year. If you’ve ever wondered how to plan the perfect day here, this episode has you covered.

We also pull back the curtain on park operations and conservation, discussing the challenges of managing a site where history and nature intersect, current preservation efforts, and how the public can get involved through volunteering and support. Noah offers insight into how Mission Tejas keeps its stories alive for new generations, and what exciting projects and possibilities lie ahead.

This episode is both a guide and an invitation, to slow down, step into Texas history, and experience Mission Tejas State Park not just as a place on a map, but as a park worth returning to again and again.

If you’ve been on the fence about visiting, Part 2 might just convince you it’s time to go.

Episode Description:

In Part 1 of this two-part episode, I’m joined by Noah, the Interpretive Ranger at Mission Tejas State Park, to explore the people, purpose, and deep history behind one of East Texas’s most meaningful parks.

We start by getting to know Noah, how he found his way into park work with Texas Parks & Wildlife, what drew him specifically to Mission Tejas, and what a “typical day” really looks like for an interpretive ranger. From visitor interactions to behind-the-scenes moments, Noah shares what makes this role so rewarding, along with a few stories that stick with you long after you leave the park.

From there, we dive into the identity of Mission Tejas itself. For those who’ve never visited, Noah paints a picture of the park and its atmosphere, then walks us through its deep historical roots, including the story of the original Spanish mission, its role in Texas’s colonial past, and the importance of El Camino Real de los Tejas. We also talk about how the reconstructed mission is interpreted today and how the park balances preserving history while still offering modern outdoor recreation.

We wrap up this episode by shifting into the natural side of Mission Tejas, its trail system, terrain, and what hikers can expect when they explore the park on foot. Noah shares popular routes, personal favorites, lesser-known spots visitors often miss, and the kinds of wildlife guests might encounter along the way.

This episode is about more than just a place, it’s about stewardship, storytelling, and why parks like Mission Tejas matter.

Rev, thank you, truly!

Your content found me at the right time, not because it was flashy, but because it was honest. You’ve always shared hiking in a way that’s real, human, and grounded.

Having you on the podcast meant a lot to me. These conversations weren’t just episodes; they were reminders of why we step onto the trail in the first place. Your openness about pausing the AT, redefining success, and reflecting on legacy takes real courage, and I know those words will land with people who need them.

Thank you for trusting me and the Trailblazing Texas Podcast with your story, and for everything you give to our community.

— Jason

Episode Description:

In the final chapter of our three-part episode with The Hiking Rev, we kick-off this episode for a deeply honest and reflective discussion about what it means to pause a thru-hike, redefine success, and begin letting go of the biggest miles behind you.

Rev opens up about the moment he made the difficult decision to step off the Appalachian Trail, not as a failure, but as a conscious pause. We talk about the emotions that come with that realization: the mix of relief, disappointment, clarity, and growth that only the trail can deliver. Even without a finish, the trail still gave lessons, perspective, and a reshaping of what success really means.

Looking back on both the AT and the Pacific Crest Trail, Rev shares what those miles taught him about himself, along with unforgettable wildlife encounters, weather challenges, and moments that only happen when you commit to long-distance hiking. He also speaks directly to those standing on the edge of their own thru-hike dreams, scared, uncertain, but curious offering reassurance and wisdom earned the hard way.

We also celebrate a meaningful milestone: the five-year anniversary of Rev’s PCT journey. What started it all, how that experience has aged with time, and what still resonates today become part of a broader reflection on legacy, aging, and the evolving relationship between body, mind, and trail.

In a powerful section titled What’s Left in the Tank and Letting Go, we explore how hikers process the idea that the biggest adventures may be behind them and why that doesn’t mean the trail is done giving. Rev reflects on slowing down, soaking more in, redefining identity beyond mileage, and what “the end of the trail” truly means (if it even exists).

We close with a thoughtful wrap-up: essential gear advice, critical safety wisdom, and one final message Rev would leave for his family, his supporters, and the hiking community if this were his last word on the trail.

This episode isn’t about endings. It’s about pauses, perspective, and honoring the miles that shaped you even when you don’t walk them all.

Message from the Host:

This conversation hit close to home for me. As someone who’s found peace, clarity, and healing on trail, hearing Rev talk about the miles and the moments in between reminded me why I fell in love with hiking in the first place. Not every journey ends the way we plan, and that doesn’t make it a failure, it makes it human. I’m grateful for this conversation, and I hope it meets you wherever you are on your own path.

Episode Description:

In this episode, Rev shares what makes hiking in California so unique, from iconic, must-do trails to lesser-known routes that deliver big views without the crowds. We talk about how he finds new trails, how California’s hiking culture has evolved, and why this landscape continues to leave a lasting mark on those who explore it.

We also dive into wildlife and terrain, covering responsible encounters with animals like bears and mountain lions, the best places to experience wildflowers and old-growth forests, and the geological features that make California hiking unlike anywhere else.

Safety and preparedness take center stage as Rev offers practical insight on sudden weather changes, essential gear, navigation apps, permits, and real hazards like rockfall and avalanche terrain.

The conversation then shifts to the Pacific Crest Trail—what inspired Rev to attempt it, what makes the California section so special, the hardest moments on trail, and how the experience changed him long after the miles were done.

We close with a thoughtful reflection on the Appalachian Trail attempt that was paused, not ended—what it felt like to step away, and why knowing when to go home can be just as important as pushing forward.

This episode is packed with experience, perspective, and trail-earned wisdom, perfect for anyone who loves the journey as much as the destination.

Episode Description:

In this first installment of our three-part series, we sit down with Michael — the inspirational voice many know as The Hiking Rev. I first discovered his content through his video, “Tips for Older Hikers and Backpackers,” and from that moment on, I was hooked. His perspective, vulnerability, humor, and trail wisdom make him one of the most engaging storytellers in the outdoor community.

In Part 1, we dig into who Rev is as a hiker and backpacker. He shares how long he’s been hiking and backpacking, what inspired him to start, and what the trail has come to represent in his life. We talk about the people he hikes with, the experiences that shaped him, and what keeps him returning to the backcountry again and again.

From there, the conversation naturally unfolds into his love for California’s outdoor spaces. Rev talks about his favorite locations and the trails that mean the most to him.

We also begin touching on his major thru-hikes — the Pacific Crest Trail and the Appalachian Trail — setting the foundation for deeper stories and lessons that will unfold in Parts 2 and 3. And before we wrap, Rev gives us a look at what’s next on his horizon and how listeners can follow along with his adventures and content.

Part 1 is the perfect introduction to the heart, humor, and experience that define The Hiking Rev. Settle in, this is just the beginning of a powerful three-part journey.