Exploring the Beauty of National Parks: Tips from Empty-Nester Couple Matt and Karen Smith

Matt and Karen Smith, a couple who met at college in Kansas, have been exploring the US national parks since 2010. After retiring and becoming empty-nesters, they used their savings to embark on a journey to visit every US national park. Their adventures took them to remote locations like American Samoa and north of the Arctic circle. The Smiths have shared their best tips for avoiding crowded national parks with Business Insider.

The Smiths, both 63 years old, understand that with over 325 million people visiting at least one of the national parks in the US last year, crowds are inevitable. However, there are ways to avoid the throngs of tourists according to them. They suggest visiting during off-peak seasons or choosing lesser-known parks that attract fewer visitors.

The Smiths’ experiences have been documented in emails to their friends, Bob and Sue which eventually turned into their first book “Dear Bob and Sue.” Today, they share national parks content on Instagram and their podcast. They encourage others to explore these beautiful natural wonders while maintaining a safe distance from others during peak tourist seasons.