S03 E01: The Great Outdoor Quest: 63 US National Parks, 1 Explorer - Harsha

In this episode, we’re thrilled to welcome our guest, Harsha Dandibhotla who has an unwavering passion for the great outdoors. Currently on a mission to visit all 63 national parks in the United States, he had explored 37 parks when we recorded—and has already ticked off his 38th since! From trekking and hiking to mountaineering, snowmobiling, biking, kayaking, swimming, and even aerial explorations, his love for nature knows no bounds. With a bag almost always packed and ready, he thrives on spontaneous adventures, using the outdoors as a way to de-stress and decompress. Join us as we dive into his incredible stories from the tundras, canyons, caves, volcanic lakes, snow-capped mountains, and forests glowing in fall colours. Along the way, he shares thrilling encounters: navigating trails with alligators, facing slithering snakes, and even a heart-stopping moment of being chased by a grizzly bear! This episode is packed with entertaining anecdotes, breath-taking moments, and fascinating experiences from some of the most stunning national parks in the U.S. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast or simply enjoy hearing about epic adventures, this conversation will leave you inspired to explore the wild. Tune in now for a journey through America’s most beautiful landscapes! --------------------------------------------- Follow Harsha on Instagram --------------------------------------------- To support our team and donate generously, please click ⁠⁠⁠⁠SUPPORT ⁠⁠⁠⁠. Like our work? Follow, Like & Subscribe to our podcast from wherever you are listening in. We would also love to hear from you, so do write to us at: Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@misadventuresofasneaker⁠⁠⁠⁠ Blog: misadventuresofasneaker.substack.com ---------------------------------------- Harsha's suggestions on the podcast: Hiking Group: NYC Hikers National Parks app: Guide Along ---------------------------------------- 00:00:00 Trailer 00:02:27 Episode intro 00:05:19 Welcoming Harsha 00:10:39 Early Travel – Iceland & Ladakh 00:18:52 Grand Canyon & early USA travels 00:22:40 Badlands National Park (S. Dakota) 00:27:21 Arches & Canyonlands NP (Utah) 00:30:35 Bear encounter at Smoky Mountains NP 00:35:20 Arctic and Alpine Tundra treks 00:39:03 Kobuk Valley NP (Alaska) 00:47:47 Packing Gear for camping & trekking 00:55:30 Camping styles 00:56:46 John Muir & history of NP 01:04:39 Yosemite NP & Half dome trail 01:10:24 Utah’s Grand Staircase 01:19:11 Everglades NP (Florida) 01:21:51 Crater Lakes NP (Oregon) 01:22:48 North Cascades NP (Washington) 01:26:33 Why the love for NPs 01:31:24 Big Bend NP (Texas) 01:35:15 Planning a visit? 01:38:50 Concluding & toodles