• 15 TIPS for Visiting Grand Canyon You SHOULD KNOW
    Jul 5 2025

    Are you planning a trip to Grand Canyon and trying to figure out best way to visit Grand Canyon National Park? Watch these must-know tips for visiting Grand Canyon National Park before you go so that you get the most out of your trip.

    🔸GRAND CANYON ITINERARIES 🔸

    ➡️ Get 1, 2 and 3-day itineraries for Grand Canyon National Park (South Rim)

    ➡️ Get a Grand Canyon North Rim Basic Itinerary

    🔸HIGHLIGHTS 🔸

    James Ian, a seasoned national park expert, shares his top 15 essential tips for visiting Grand Canyon National Park. The episode covers a range of advice for travel to Grand Canyon, Arizona from hydration strategies to using shuttle buses and highlights lesser-known viewpoints and times of the day to visit. James emphasizes the importance of early accommodation booking and considering unique activities like mule rides and river trips. The episode also recommends the less crowded North Rim as a hidden gem.

    00:00 Introduction

    01:43 Don’t underestimate the heat

    02:56 Be mindful of the altitude

    03:36 Explore multiple viewpoints

    04:23 See the canyon at different times of day

    05:08 Use the shuttle

    06:09 Book accommodations well in advance

    07:13 Start at the Visitor Center

    07:57 Hike below the rim

    10:08 Learn about the Canyon's geology

    11:08 Explore Grand Canyon Village

    12:07 Drive to Desert View

    13:16 Take a mule ride

    15:02 Take a river trip

    16:54 Use an Itinerary for Your Trip

    19:41 Top Tip: Visit the North Rim

    ➡️ Read the full web article here

    #grandcanyon #usnationalparks #TravelTips

    🔸LINKS AND RESOURCES 🔸

    [When available, we use affiliate links and may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you. See my Disclosure Policy for more information. I’m a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.]

    ➡️Download my free Trip Preparation Checklist

    ➡️Join my private Facebook group

    ➡️Get an America the Beautiful annual pass

    ➡️ Search for hotels on Expedia

    ➡️ Find a vacation rental on VRBO
    ➡️ Search Discover Cars for rental car deals
    ➡️ Search Skyscanner for flights
    ➡️ Check the price of the LMNT electrolytes

    Support the show

    🔸🔸 WAYS TO WORK WITH ME 🔸🔸

    James Ian and Parks Collecting works with a limited number of brands that align perfectly with our audience and their needs. If you’d like to work with us, please email us at james(at)parkscollecting(dot)com.

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    21 mins
  • 7 MISTAKES to AVOID when visiting GRAND CANYON
    Jun 28 2025

    Are you traveling to Grand Canyon National Park? Here are 7 common mistakes people make when they travel to Grand Canyon National Park – so you can avoid making them!

    🔸GRAND CANYON ITINERARIES 🔸

    ➡️ Get 1, 2 and 3-day itineraries for Grand Canyon National Park (South Rim)

    ➡️ Get a Grand Canyon North Rim Basic Itinerary

    🔸HIGHLIGHTS 🔸

    Planning a trip to Grand Canyon National Park? In this episode, James Ian, a seasoned National Park expert, highlights seven common mistakes tourists make when visiting Grand Canyon National Park. Learn why spending only 17 minutes viewing the canyon and staying just a few hours at Grand Canyon South Rim are big no-no's. Discover the importance of exploring below the rim, planning well in advance, and considering raft trips on the Colorado River. James also emphasizes the benefit of having a flexible itinerary and not missing out on the North Rim for a more secluded experience. Stay until the end for the number one mistake to avoid to ensure your Grand Canyon National Park trip is unforgettable. Subscribe for more tips and hidden gems for your national park adventures!

    00:00 Introduction to Grand Canyon trip Planning

    01:21 Spending Too Little Time Looking at the Canyon

    02:57 Rushing Your Visit

    04:59 Not Exploring Below the Rim

    08:24 Not Booking in Advance

    10:05 Skipping the River Experience

    13:30 Lack of Detailed Planning

    16:02 Only Visiting the South Rim

    ➡️ Read the full web article here

    #grandcanyon # grandcanyonnationalpark #usnationalparks

    🔸LINKS AND RESOURCES 🔸

    [When available, we use affiliate links and may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you. See my Disclosure Policy for more information. I’m a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.]

    ➡️ Join my 7-Day National Parks Trip Planning Email Challenge

    ➡️Download my free Trip Preparation Checklist

    ➡️Find a detailed itinerary for your park

    ➡️Join my private Facebook group

    ➡️Get an America the Beautiful annual national parks pass

    ➡️ Search for hotels on Expedia

    ➡️ Find a vacation rental on VRBO
    ➡️ Search Discover Cars for the rental car best deals
    ➡️ Search Skyscanner for the best deals on flights

    Support the show

    🔸🔸 WAYS TO WORK WITH ME 🔸🔸

    James Ian and Parks Collecting works with a limited number of brands that align perfectly with our audience and their needs. If you’d like to work with us, please email us at james(at)parkscollecting(dot)com.

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    19 mins
  • 5 Best Easy Hikes in Grand Canyon National Park
    Jun 21 2025

    Do you want to go hiking in Grand Canyon National Park but don’t want anything too strenuous? I’ve got you covered. I’m sharing the easy hikes in Grand Canyon National Park. There are Grand Canyon easy hikes South Rim and North Rim.

    🔸GRAND CANYON ITINERARIES 🔸

    ➡️ Get 1, 2 and 3-day itineraries for Grand Canyon National Park (South Rim)

    ➡️ Get a Grand Canyon North Rim Basic Itinerary

    🔸HIGHLIGHTS 🔸

    In this episode, James Ian shares the top five easy hikes Grand Canyon National Park has. He details Grand Canyon National Park hikes that are ideal for families and casual hikers. There are Grand Canyon South Rim and North Rim trails that offer stunning views without strenuous effort. Highlights include the Bright Angel Point Trail, Cape Royal Trail, Trail of Time, Ooh Aah Point, and the South Rim Trail. James also provides insights on how to integrate these Grand Canyon National Park hiking trails into a trip plan, so you can easily include the best hikes in Grand Canyon into your trip itinerary.

    00:00 Introduction to Easy Hikes in Grand Canyon

    01:02 Overview of Grand Canyon's Easy Trails

    02:39 North Rim: Bright Angel Point Trail

    03:43 North Rim: Cape Royal Trail

    05:51 South Rim: Trail of Time

    07:59 South Rim: South Kaibab Trail to Ooh Aah Point

    09:31 Planning Your Grand Canyon Itinerary

    11:30 Top Family-Friendly Hike: South Rim Trail

    ➡️ Read the full web article here

    #grandcanyon # grandcanyonnationalpark #usnationalparks #easyhikes

    🔸LINKS AND RESOURCES 🔸

    [When available, we use affiliate links and may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you. See my Disclosure Policy for more information. I’m a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.]

    ➡️ Join my 7-Day National Parks Trip Planning Email Challenge

    ➡️Download my free Trip Preparation Checklist

    ➡️Find a detailed itinerary for your park

    ➡️Join my private Facebook group
    ➡️Get an America the Beautiful annual national parks pass

    ➡️ Search for hotels on Expedia

    ➡️ Find a vacation rental on VRBO
    ➡️ Search Discover Cars for the rental car best deals
    ➡️ Search Skyscanner for the best deals on flights

    Support the show

    🔸🔸 WAYS TO WORK WITH ME 🔸🔸

    James Ian and Parks Collecting works with a limited number of brands that align perfectly with our audience and their needs. If you’d like to work with us, please email us at james(at)parkscollecting(dot)com.

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    13 mins
  • 10 Best Hikes in Acadia National Park Not to Miss
    Jun 14 2025

    If you want to go hiking in Acadia National Park and are trying to find the best trails in Acadia National Park, then this episode is for you.

    🔸 ACADIA NATIONAL PARK ITINERARIES 🔸

    ➡️ Get 1, 2, 3, and 4-day itineraries: https://parkscollecting.com/acadia-national-park-itinerary/

    🔸HIGHLIGHTS 🔸

    Join James Ian, a seasoned Acadia National Park expert, as he unveils his picks for the 10 best hikes in Acadia National Park. This episode about the best hikes Acadia National Park has features in-depth descriptions and insider tips for a variety of hikes, from the strenuous Beehive Trail and Precipice Trail to the easier Jordan Pond Loop and Ship Harbor Trail. Learn how to navigate all the Acadia National Park best hikes, what to expect, and how to plan your ultimate hiking itinerary. Don't miss out on his number one favorite hike and additional resources to ensure you have the best national parks trip ever!

    00:00 Introduction to Acadia National Park Hiking

    01:44 Acadia Mountain Trail

    03:59 Ship Harbor Trail

    05:33 Precipice Trail & Beechcroft Path

    08:02 Gorham Mountain Trail

    09:54 Penobscot Mountain Trail

    12:35 Jordan Pond Loop

    15:22 South Bubble Trail

    17:22 Great Head Trail

    19:04 Ocean Path Trail

    21:55 Conclusion and Favorite Hike: The Beehive Trail

    ➡️ Read the full web article: https://parkscollecting.com/best-hikes-in-acadia-national-park/

    #acadia #acadianationalpark #usnationalparks #acadiahikes

    🔸LINKS AND RESOURCES 🔸

    [When available, we use affiliate links and may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you. See my Disclosure Policy for more information. I’m a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.]

    ➡️ Join my 7-Day National Parks Trip Planning Email Challenge

    ➡️Download my free Trip Preparation Checklist

    ➡️Find a detailed itinerary for your park

    ➡️ Acadia National Park Audio Tour

    ➡️ Travelex Travel Insurance
    ➡️ Search for hotels on Expedia

    ➡️ Find a vacation rental on VRBO
    ➡️ Search Discover Cars for the rental car best deals
    ➡️ Search Skyscanner for the best deals on flights

    Support the show

    🔸🔸 WAYS TO WORK WITH ME 🔸🔸

    James Ian and Parks Collecting works with a limited number of brands that align perfectly with our audience and their needs. If you’d like to work with us, please email us at james(at)parkscollecting(dot)com.

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    27 mins
  • The 10 Best THINGS TO DO in ZION National Park
    Jun 7 2025

    Are you trying to decide what to do in Zion National Park? There are so many top things to do in Zion National Park that it’s hard to pick just a few. But I’ve narrowed it down to my favorites. So, here are my top 10 things to do in Zion National Park.

    🔸ZION NATIONAL PARK ITINERARIES 🔸

    ➡️ Get 1, 2 and 3-day itineraries for Zion National Park

    🔸HIGHLIGHTS 🔸

    In this episode, James Ian, a seasoned National Parks expert, shares his 10 top things you need to do in Zion National Park. The video about the best things to do in Zion National Park covers diverse and exciting ways to experience Zion.

    00:00 Introduction to Zion National Park

    01:42 Scenic Drives

    05:01 Tubing

    05:49 Swimming

    08:10 ATV Tours

    08:46 Horseback Riding

    09:33 Star Gazing

    11:00 Cycling

    12:22 Photography

    13:537 Canyoneering

    14:53 Planning Your Zion Itinerary

    17:09 Hiking Trails

    19:44 Conclusion and Resources

    ➡️ Read the full web article here

    #zion #zionnationalpark #usnationalparks

    🔸LINKS AND RESOURCES 🔸

    [When available, we use affiliate links and may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you. See my Disclosure Policy for more information. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.]

    ➡️Download my free Trip Preparation Checklist

    ➡️Join my private Facebook group

    ➡️ Search for hotels on Expedia

    ➡️ Search Discover Cars for the rental car best deals
    ➡️ Search Skyscanner for the best deals on flights

    ➡️ Book a 4-hour ATV tour

    ➡️ Canyon Trail Rides

    ➡️ Book a Guided Sunset Horseback Riding Tour

    ➡️ Book a stargazing tour

    ➡️ Rent an e-bike in Zion

    ➡️ Book the coral sands canyoneering trip

    Support the show

    🔸🔸 WAYS TO WORK WITH ME 🔸🔸

    James Ian and Parks Collecting works with a limited number of brands that align perfectly with our audience and their needs. If you’d like to work with us, please email us at james(at)parkscollecting(dot)com.

    Show more Show less
    20 mins
  • These are the 10 Best Hikes in Zion National Park
    May 31 2025

    Here are the 10 best hikes in Zion National Park. If you like to hike, you will want to know the best trails in Zion National Park. There are top hikes in Zion National Park for all levels, from beginners to experienced hikers.

    🔸ZION NATIONAL PARK ITINERARIES 🔸

    ➡️ Get 1, 2 and 3-day itineraries for Zion National Park

    🔸HIGHLIGHTS 🔸

    In this episode, James Ian, a National Park expert and author of numerous guides, shares his top 10 best hikes at Zion National Park. Covering a range of trails from easy walks like the Pa'rus Trail and Riverside Walk to more challenging hikes like The Narrows and Angels Landing, James provides detailed descriptions, essential tips, and expert advice of all the best day hikes in Zion National Park to help you plan your hiking itinerary. He also highlights hidden gems, discusses logistical considerations such as permits and shuttle services, and recommends the best hikes for different skill levels.

    00:00 Introduction to Zion National Park's Best Hikes

    01:54 The Narrows

    05:27 Pa'rus

    07:07 The Subway

    09:51 Angels Landing

    12:07 Weeping Rock

    13:02 Riverside Walk

    13:58 Canyon Overlook

    16:02 Emerald Pools / Kayenta

    17:44 Watchman

    18:53 Itinerary Planning

    20:57 Observation Point: The best hike in Zion National Park

    ➡️ Read the full web article here

    #zionnationalpark #usnationalparks #zionhikes

    🔸LINKS AND RESOURCES 🔸

    [When available, we use affiliate links and may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you. See my Disclosure Policy for more information. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.]

    ➡️Join my private Facebook group

    ➡️The Narrows Trail

    ➡️ Angels Landing Trail

    ➡️ How to Get Permits for Angels Landing

    ➡️ Tips for Hiking Angels Landing

    ➡️ Observation Point via East Mesa Trail

    ➡️ Observation Rim via East Rim Trail

    ➡️Get an America the Beautiful pass

    ➡️ Search for hotels on Expedia

    ➡️ Find a vacation rental on VRBO
    ➡️ Search Discover Cars for the rental car best deals
    ➡️ Search Skyscanner for the best deals on flights

    Support the show

    🔸🔸 WAYS TO WORK WITH ME 🔸🔸

    James Ian and Parks Collecting works with a limited number of brands that align perfectly with our audience and their needs. If you’d like to work with us, please email us at james(at)parkscollecting(dot)com.

    Show more Show less
    24 mins
  • 12 TIPS for Visiting ZION National Park That Will Make Your Trip BETTER!
    May 24 2025

    🔸ZION NATIONAL PARK ITINERARIES 🔸

    ➡️ Get 1, 2 and 3-day itineraries for Zion National Park

    🔸HIGHLIGHTS 🔸

    In this episode, James Ian, a national park expert, shares his top 12 essential tips for visiting Zion National Park.

    He covers a range of Zion National Park tips from checking water levels and flash flood warnings for The Narrows hike, to being aware of toxic cyanobacteria in the Virgin River, and securing a permit for Angel's Landing. In his tips for Zion National Park, James also emphasizes the importance of booking accommodations and knowing the shuttle schedule in advance. He encourages exploring less-visited areas like East Mesa and Kolob Canyons, and suggests purchasing an America the Beautiful Pass for economical access to multiple parks. Additionally, James highlights the value of ranger-led programs and his detailed itineraries for maximizing your trip. Finally, his number one tip is to start your day early to beat the heat, avoid crowds, and secure a parking spot.

    00:00 Introduction to Zion tips and tricks

    00:43 Essential Preparations for Zion's Iconic Hikes

    01:52 Safety Tips for Hiking The Narrows

    03:14 Be aware of toxic cyanobacteria

    05:01 Planning for Angel's Landing

    06:22 Accommodation Tips

    07:08 Know the Shuttle Schedule

    07:59 Check Trail Conditions

    08:54 Enjoy the Cottonwood Tree

    09:33 Explore Beyond Zion Canyon

    11:02 Get an America The Beautiful Pass

    11:31 Join the Ranger-led Programs

    12:13 Get One of My Itineraries

    14:08 Top Tip for Visiting Zion National Park

    ➡️ Read the full web article here

    #zion #zionnationalpark #usnationalparks

    🔸LINKS AND RESOURCES 🔸

    [When available, we use affiliate links and may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you. See my Disclosure Policy for more information. I’m a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.]

    ➡️ Join my 7-Day National Parks Trip Planning Email Challenge

    ➡️Download my free Trip Preparation Checklist

    ➡️Find a detailed itinerary for your park

    ➡️Join my private Facebook group

    ➡️Get an America the Beautiful annual national parks pass

    ➡️ Search for hotels on Expedia

    ➡️ Find a vacation rental on VRBO
    ➡️ Search Discover Cars for the rental car best deals
    ➡️ Search Skyscanner for the best deals on flights

    Support the show

    🔸🔸 WAYS TO WORK WITH ME 🔸🔸

    James Ian and Parks Collecting works with a limited number of brands that align perfectly with our audience and their needs. If you’d like to work with us, please email us at james(at)parkscollecting(dot)com.

    Show more Show less
    16 mins
  • 7 MISTAKES to AVOID When Visiting Zion National Park
    May 17 2025

    Are trying to figure out how to visit Zion National Park? Here is what to know before visiting Zion National Park about common mistakes – so you can avoid making them!

    🔸ZION NATIONAL PARK ITINERARIES 🔸

    ➡️ Get 1, 2 and 3-day itineraries for Zion National Park

    🔸HIGHLIGHTS 🔸

    In this Zion National Park guide episode, James Ian shares seven essential Zion National Park tips to avoid common mistakes when visiting Zion National Park. From securing permits for Angels Landing to preparing adequately for The Narrows, and ensuring an early start to avoid crowds, Ian offers practical advice for a seamless trip.

    He also highlights often overlooked areas of Zion, such as Kolob Canyons and Kolob Terrace, and argues that Observation Point offers the best views in the park. Additionally, Ian stresses the importance of a flexible and detailed itinerary and suggests including a visit to Bryce Canyon National Park in your plans. Tune in for insider Zion tips and tricks and detailed itineraries to make the most of your national park adventure.

    00:00 Introduction to Zion National Park

    01:36 Common Mistake: Not Getting Permits for Angels Landing

    03:07 Common Mistake: Failing to Prepare for The Narrows

    05:22 Common Mistake: Getting a Late Start

    07:33 Common Mistake: Only Visiting Zion Canyon

    09:08 Common Mistake: Missing Observation Point

    11:31 Common Mistake: Not Having a Detailed and Flexible Plan

    13:38 Top Tip: Visit Bryce Canyon National Park

    ➡️ Read the full web article here

    #zion #zionnationalpark #usnationalparks

    🔸LINKS AND RESOURCES 🔸

    [When available, we use affiliate links and may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you. See my Disclosure Policy for more information. I’m a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.]

    ➡️ Join my 7-Day National Parks Trip Planning Email Challenge

    ➡️Download my free Trip Preparation Checklist

    ➡️Find a detailed itinerary for your park

    ➡️Join my private Facebook group US National Parks Collectors

    ➡️ Search for hotels on Expedia

    ➡️ Find a vacation rental on VRBO
    ➡️ Search Discover Cars for the rental car best deals
    ➡️ Search Skyscanner for the best deals on flights

    Support the show

    🔸🔸 WAYS TO WORK WITH ME 🔸🔸

    James Ian and Parks Collecting works with a limited number of brands that align perfectly with our audience and their needs. If you’d like to work with us, please email us at james(at)parkscollecting(dot)com.

    Show more Show less
    14 mins