Two Chicks with Hiking Sticks

Monica Gonzalez and Susan Resendez
  • 4.9 (7)
  • Places & Travel
  • Updated Weekly

Two Chicks with Hiking Sticks is a podcast that aims to entertain and educate about the outdoors through experiences that will empower us to explore the rich intersections of culture, history, and the natural world. We really appreciate your support over these last few months. We've had comments from several of you asking about merchandise and we heard you! The Two Chicks with Hiking Sticks storefront is now open and we'd love it if you would consider supporting our endeavor to inform and educate about our cultural, historical, and natural world by buying a t-shirt or sticker or pin to help spread the word by buying a t-shirt or sticker or pin. If you see something you like on the storefront but would like it more personalized, send a direct message and we'll do our best to accommodate your request! Thank you! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  1. 6d ago

    Ancient Rock Art in the Desert

    Join Two Chicks with Hiking Sticks as we explore Petroglyph National Monument on the edge of Albuquerque, New Mexico — home to an estimated 20,000-25,000 petroglyphs carved into volcanic basalt by Ancestral Puebloan peoples and Spanish settlers over the last 700+ years. In this episode, we hike the easy-to-moderate trails of Boca Negra Canyon, Rinconada Canyon, and Piedras Marcadas Canyon, explore the monument's volcanic geology and five dormant cinder cones, and dig into the deep cultural history that makes this landscape sacred to nearly 20 Indigenous nations today. 🥾 Trails featured: Boca Negra Canyon (Macaw & Cliff Base Trails), Rinconada Canyon Loop, Piedras Marcadas Trail 🌋 Featured geology: West Mesa basalt escarpment, reverse topography, dormant volcanic cones 🏛️ Managed by: National Park Service + City of Albuquerque Two Chicks with Hiking Sticks is a podcast that informs, entertains, and educates through the rich intersections of culture, history, and the natural world — spotlighting National Park Service sites and the local gems around them. 📍 Petroglyph National Monument, Albuquerque, NM 🔗 nps.gov/petr #PetroglyphNationalMonument #NationalParkService #PetroglyphNationalMonument #TwoChicksWithHikingSticks #NationalParkService #NPS #Albuquerque #NewMexico #HikingPodcast #NationalMonument #PetroglyphNM #DesertHiking #TravelPodcast #NationalParks #AncestralPuebloan #RockArt #WestMesa #NMTrue #ExploreNewMexico #HikingForBeginners #OutdoorPodcast #CultureAndNature Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Ancient Rock Art in the Desert

  2. Aug 6

    Mount Rainier National Park: What You NEED to Know Before You Go

    Ever wondered what it's actually like to visit Mount Rainier National Park? In this episode, Susan shares her firsthand experience visiting in August 2024 — and she and Monica break down everything you need to know before you go, from the park's layout to the logistics that can make or break your trip. Mount Rainier is one of America's most iconic national parks — and one of the most misunderstood. It's not just a pretty mountain. It's an active stratovolcano, the highest peak in the Cascade Range at 14,410 feet, home to 25 glaciers (including Emmons Glacier — the largest in the contiguous U.S.), and 91,000 acres of old-growth forest. Plus it has some of the most spectacular wildflowers you'll ever see. But here's what nobody tells you: this park takes serious planning. There's no road that circles the volcano. No gas stations inside the park. Very little cell service. Parking fills up by 9 a.m. on summer weekends. And the four main areas — Longmire, Paradise, Sunrise/White River, and Ohanapecosh — are each an hour or more apart with no straight roads connecting them. Susan stayed in Packwood, Washington to reach multiple sides of the park, and walks you through how she tackled the Nisqually Entrance (Longmire Museum, Wilderness Info Center, Henry Jackson Visitor Center), why the Sunrise Entrance is worth every effort, and what the deal is with the Ohanapecosh area construction closure in 2026. Monica and Susan also get into critical safety tips — including why elevation changes at Rainier can turn deadly fast if you're not layered up — plus why talking to the park rangers before hitting the trail is non-negotiable. They wrap with Susan holding up the four official trail guides the park provides (yes, physical ones — with maps on the back!) and remind you: download your AllTrails maps while you still have WiFi at the visitor center. 🥾 Whether you're planning your first Pacific Northwest road trip or adding Rainier to a circuit with Crater Lake, Olympic, and North Cascades — this episode is your starting point. 🛒 Support the show: ☕ Buy us a coffee: buymeacoffee.com/twochickswithhikingsticks 👕 Shop our Zazzle merch store: zazzle.com/store/2chickswhikingsticks 📌 Resources mentioned: Mount Rainier National Park official site: nps.gov/mora Trail info & maps: alltrails.com America the Beautiful Senior Pass (62+): store.usgs.gov/senior-pass 👍 Like, subscribe, and hit the bell so you never miss an episode — and drop a comment telling us: have YOU been to Mount Rainier? What was your favorite spot? Hike your own hike — we'll see y'all next time! 🥾🥾 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Mount Rainier National Park: What You NEED to Know Before You Go

  3. Jul 30

    Is Fort Union National Monument Worth Preserving?

    Ever driven past a historical site and thought... but why is this here? That's exactly the conversation we had about Fort Union National Monument in northeastern New Mexico — and we're not holding back! Monica was our boots-on-the-ground explorer and Susan did the deep research dive, and together we take you through the full story of this FREE National Park Service site: the three forts built on the same spot, the Civil War battle that changed the West, the adobe ruins slowly melting back into the prairie, and the big question — should your tax dollars be protecting this place at all? In this episode we cover: ✅ The story of THREE forts on one site — and why only two show up today ✅ Fort Union as "the Gettysburg of the West" — the Battle of Glorieta Pass ✅ Star forts — what they are and where else you can find them in the U.S. ✅ Monica's conversation with an NPS worker doing shelter coating on the adobe walls ✅ The Santa Fe Trail wagon ruts you can still see today ✅ The Buffalo Soldiers connection ✅ Fort Union vs. Fort Davis — a real comparison from two chicks who've been to both ✅ Why wives of enlisted men had to work the laundry (we have feelings about this 😤) ✅ The honest debate: is this a national monument worth keeping — or should New Mexico take it over? ✅ Dark sky park bonus — the stargazing case for visiting We also reminisce about Susan's recent trip to Padre Island National Seashore and her two Junior Ranger badges — yes, two! 🎥 Check out our earlier virtual hike/overview video of Fort Union from when the government shutdown kept us out — link in the cards! 📍 Fort Union National Monument | Watrous, NM (Exit 366 off I-25) 💰 Admission: FREE | America the Beautiful Pass accepted 🐍 Stay on the trail — rattlesnakes are real out there! ☀️ No shade, no trees — bring water, a hat, and sunscreen 🌌 Dark Sky Park — incredible stargazing if you're in the area 👉 Like what you hear? Subscribe and hit the bell so you never miss a new episode — we drop every Thursday! ☕ Buy us a coffee or grab some merch in our Zazzle store — links below! 👍 Share, like, and leave your quiz answers in the comments! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Is Fort Union National Monument Worth Preserving?

  4. Jul 23

    San Antonio's Hidden Gem: The Incredible True Story Behind Phil Hardberger Park

    In this episode of Two Chicks with Hiking Sticks, Susan and Monica dig into one of San Antonio's most beloved urban parks — Phil Hardberger Park — and the remarkable 175-year story behind how it came to exist. What started as a Republic of Texas land grant to a Battle of San Jacinto hero eventually became a tight-knit community of dairy farms known as Buttermilk Hill. The last family standing? Max and Minnie Voelcker — a childless couple who milked cows twice a day, 365 days a year, and whose trust ultimately made this park possible. Throw in a mayor who spent his own campaign funds to save the land from developers, a national architecture competition, and the largest land bridge in the United States — and you've got a story worth telling. Whether you're a longtime San Antonian or planning your first visit, this episode covers it all: the history, the trails, the wildlife, and why this 330-acre gem in the middle of one of America's largest cities is something truly special. 🌉 Largest wildlife & pedestrian land bridge in the U.S. 🌳 Skywalk treetop canopy trail 🐄 From dairy farm to world-class urban park 🦌 Real wildlife sightings — deer, bobcats, coyotes & more 🏛️ Historic Voelcker Homestead on the National Register of Historic Places 🗳️ The bond election that saved it all 📍 Phil Hardberger Park East Entrance: 13203 Blanco Rd, San Antonio, TX 78216 West Entrance: Off NW Military Hwy Hours: Sunrise to Sunset | Free Admission 🌐 philhardbergerpark.org ☕ Buy us a coffee or grab some merch: [Your Zazzle link here] 👍 Like, share & subscribe — we cover local, national & maybe even international trails! #PhilHardbergerPark #SanAntonio #TwoChicksWithHikingSticks #SanAntonioParks #TexasHiking #VisitSanAntonio #LandBridge #WildlifeCrossing #SanAntonioHistory #TexasHistory #ButtermilkHill #VoelckerFarm #UrbanPark #TexasParks #HikeTexas #SanAntonioThingsToDo #NatureWalk #OutdoorSanAntonio #HikeYourOwnHike #PodcastTexas Chapter Markers: 00:00 Intro 00:13 Welcome to Two Chicks with Hiking Sticks 00:27 Weather talk & getting outside in San Antonio 01:30 San Antonio — the city nobody realizes is huge 02:30 Introducing Phil Hardberger Park 03:42 The origin story — Buttermilk Hill & dairy farms 05:17 The Voelcker family & how they got the land 07:45 The Voelcker Trust & its lasting legacy 08:26 The Land Bridge — largest in the United States 09:00 The Skywalk & treetop canopy trail 09:24 Mayor Phil Hardberger & the bond election 10:14 What it's like to actually hike the park 11:50 Wildlife on the land bridge (deer sightings!) 12:19 The historic Voelcker homestead on the property 12:59 Monica's detour — KLRN's San Antonio Remembered 14:19 Walking through Texas history from Republic to statehood 16:07 Is Buttermilk Hill actually hilly? 17:15 The national architect search & park design 18:09 Awards, accolades & the Salado Creek Greenway 19:11 Visitor tips — parking, trails, pets & strollers 19:44 Pavilions, bathrooms, public art & the ecology center 20:45 Wrapping up — why you have no excuses not to go 21:56 Outro — like, share, merch & hike your own hike Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    San Antonio's Hidden Gem: The Incredible True Story Behind Phil Hardberger Park

  5. Jul 16

    Palmetto State Park Texas: The Most Underrated State Park in Texas?

    Welcome to another adventure with Two Chicks with Hiking Sticks! In this episode, Susan and Monica explore one of the most unique and underrated parks in Texas—Palmetto State Park. Located between Luling and Gonzales, this small but fascinating Texas State Park is home to dwarf palmettos, scenic hiking trails, the San Marcos River, Oxbow Lake, incredible birdwatching opportunities, and even a local swamp creature legend! Join us as we discuss the history of the park, its Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) roots, easy hiking trails, camping opportunities, kayaking and canoeing on the San Marcos River, and why this hidden gem deserves a spot on your Texas travel bucket list. Whether you're a hiker, camper, birder, paddler, history enthusiast, or simply looking for a great day trip from San Antonio or Austin, Palmetto State Park offers a little something for everyone. 📍 Park Location: Gonzales County, Texas 🥾 Hiking Trails 🦅 Birding & Wildlife 🚣 Kayaking & Canoeing 🏕️ Camping & RV Sites 🌴 Dwarf Palmetto Habitat 🏛️ CCC History 👣 Easy Hiking for All Skill Levels Have you visited Palmetto State Park? Tell us your favorite Texas State Park in the comments below. We are always looking for new places to explore and feature on the podcast! 👍 Like 💬 Comment 🔔 Subscribe 📤 Share with your hiking friends Two Chicks with Hiking Sticks explores the natural, cultural, and historical world around us through hiking, travel, history, and outdoor adventure. #PalmettoStatePark #TexasStateParks #TexasHiking #HikingTexas #TexasTravel #SanMarcosRiver #BirdingTexas #CampingTexas #KayakingTexas #TexasOutdoors #StateParks #TexasCamping #OutdoorAdventure #HiddenGemsTexas #TwoChicksWithHikingSticks #NaturePodcast #TravelPodcast #ExploreTexas #TexasRoadTrip #EasyHikes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Palmetto State Park Texas: The Most Underrated State Park in Texas?

  6. Jul 9

    Texas’ Highest Peak & Ancient Oceans: Guadalupe Mountains National Park

    We’re heading to one of the most underrated national parks in the entire country — Guadalupe Mountains National Park in far West Texas! Rising over 3,000 feet above the Chihuahuan Desert, these mountains hide a jaw-dropping secret: they’re actually the remains of a 260–270-million-year-old reef that once sat at the bottom of an ancient tropical sea. In this episode, we explore the natural wonders, rich cultural history, and best hiking options at Guadalupe Mountains — including trails perfect for the 50+ crowd who love a great adventure without the extremes. ⏱️ WHAT WE COVER IN THIS EPISODE: ✅ The geology behind these ancient mountains — 260–270 million years in the making ✅ The 10,000-year human story: Mescalero Apache, Buffalo Soldiers & the Butterfield Stagecoach ✅ Best hikes for every level (easy strolls to the highest peak in Texas) ✅ McKittrick Canyon — Texas’ best fall foliage destination ✅ First-timer tips: what to know before you go ✅ Why this park belongs on EVERY Texas bucket list 📌 PARK QUICK FACTS: Located in: Hudspeth & Culberson Counties, West Texas | On US Hwy 62/180 Established: September 30, 1972 | Authorized: 1966 Size: 86,416 acres | 80+ miles of trails Highest Point: Guadalupe Peak, 8,751 ft (highest in Texas!) Entrance Fee: $10/person | Annual Pass accepted Visitor Info: nps.gov/gumo | 915-828-3251 🌟 BEST HIKES WE RECOMMEND: Easy: Pinery Trail (0.75 mi round-trip) | Smith Spring Loop (2.3 mi) Moderate: McKittrick Canyon to Pratt Cabin (4.6 mi) | McKittrick to Grotto (6.8 mi) Strenuous: Guadalupe Peak Summit Trail (8.5 mi, 3,000 ft gain) 📹 Two Chicks with Hiking Sticks is a Two Chicks Production podcast and YouTube channel dedicated to exploring the rich intersections of culture, history, and the natural world — with a special love for National Park Service sites and local hidden gems. 🔔 SUBSCRIBE so you never miss an adventure! 👍 Like this video if it helped you plan your visit! 💬 Drop your Guadalupe Mountains questions or memories in the comments! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Texas’ Highest Peak & Ancient Oceans: Guadalupe Mountains National Park

  7. Jul 2

    Don't Hit the Trails Without These Survival Tips!

    What would you do if a simple hike turned into an unexpected overnight stay in the wilderness? In this episode of Two Chicks with Hiking Sticks, we're diving into essential outdoor survival skills every hiker, camper, and outdoor explorer should know before heading out on their next adventure. From the Ten Essentials and emergency shelters to navigation, hydration, signaling for help, and common mistakes that can quickly become dangerous, we're covering practical tips that could make all the difference when things don't go as planned. Whether you're a beginner hiker, a weekend camper, or someone who loves exploring national parks, state parks, and remote trails, this episode will help you be better prepared and more confident outdoors. 🎒 In This Episode: ✔️ The survival gear you should never leave home without ✔️ How to stay calm when you're lost ✔️ Water, shelter, and fire priorities ✔️ Navigation basics everyone should know ✔️ Common hiking mistakes to avoid ✔️ Our special giveaway announcement! 🎁 Be sure to watch until the end for details on our giveaway! At Two Chicks with Hiking Sticks, we explore the fascinating intersections of culture, history, and the natural world while helping you enjoy the outdoors safely and confidently. 👍 If you enjoyed this episode, please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE with your favorite hiking buddies. #HikingSafety #OutdoorSurvival #SurvivalSkills #HikingTips #OutdoorAdventure #WildernessSurvival #HikingLife #TenEssentials #NationalParks #StateParks #OutdoorEducation #TwoChicksWithHikingSticks Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Don't Hit the Trails Without These Survival Tips!

  8. Jun 25

    Dark Sky Parks

    Have you ever actually seen the Milky Way with your own eyes? Not a photo — the real thing, overhead, arching across a pitch-black sky? If not, this episode is for you. Susan and Monica dive into the world of Dark Sky Parks — what they are, how places earn that designation, and what it actually takes to visit one and see something that will genuinely blow your mind. 🌠 IN THIS EPISODE: • What a Dark Sky Park actually is (and why 99% of Americans have never seen a truly dark sky) • The 5 types of Dark Sky designations — parks, reserves, sanctuaries, communities & urban night sky places • How a park becomes certified — the 1-3 year process, the Bortle Scale, and what it all means • How many dark sky places exist in the US and worldwide • Why 70% of wildlife species are nocturnal — and why protecting dark skies matters for animals too • The visitor protocol: moon phases, red lights, dark adaptation, what to pack & what NOT to do (Susan's headlight story 😬) • McDonald Observatory's Star Party near Alpine, TX — a great local option! • Book recommendation: "Stikky Night Skies" by Laurence Holt — a beginner-friendly star guide we loved • App recommendation: Stellarium Mobile • Plus: telescope farms, buying a star, and a book giveaway coming soon! ⏱️ CHAPTERS: See below ↓ 📚 MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: → Stikky Night Skies by Laurence Holt (part of a series of books) → Stellarium Mobile Star App (free) → McDonald Observatory Star Party — Fort Davis, TX (~$25/person) → DarkSky International: darksky.org 🏕️ NOTABLE US DARK SKY PARKS: Joshua Tree · Arches · Bryce Canyon · Death Valley · Big Bend · Zion · Great Basin · Mammoth Cave 🎙️ Two Chicks with Hiking Sticks covers the cultural, historical, and natural wonders of the world around us. New episodes regularly — subscribe so you don't miss one! Don't forget to check out the Stikky Night Skies https://stikky.com/ #DarkSkyParks #Stargazing #NationalParks #MilkyWay #NightSky #Astronomy #HikingPodcast #TwoChicksWithHikingSticks #BigBend #McDonaldObservatory Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Dark Sky Parks
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Ratings & Reviews

4.9
out of 5
7 Ratings

About

Two Chicks with Hiking Sticks is a podcast that aims to entertain and educate about the outdoors through experiences that will empower us to explore the rich intersections of culture, history, and the natural world. We really appreciate your support over these last few months. We've had comments from several of you asking about merchandise and we heard you! The Two Chicks with Hiking Sticks storefront is now open and we'd love it if you would consider supporting our endeavor to inform and educate about our cultural, historical, and natural world by buying a t-shirt or sticker or pin to help spread the word by buying a t-shirt or sticker or pin. If you see something you like on the storefront but would like it more personalized, send a direct message and we'll do our best to accommodate your request! Thank you! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Information

  • Creator
    Monica Gonzalez and Susan Resendez
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    67
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Monica Gonzalez and Susan Resendez
  • Show Website
    Two Chicks with Hiking Sticks

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