The Great Escape

Katie Staples
  • 5.0 (3)
  • PLACES & TRAVEL
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Hey, explorers! My name is Katie Staples and I am an adventure enthusiast. I’m going to share my travel stories, tips, and tricks for exploring and creating unforgettable experiences and memories. If you are just looking to get out more, you’re craving a crazy getaway, or you’re an experienced nomad living in your sprinter van, this is the podcast for you.

  1. 4D AGO

    Grand Canyon National Park: Know Before You Go

    Planning a trip to Grand Canyon National Park? Start here. I break down everything you need to know before visiting the Grand Canyon, including the South Rim vs North Rim, shuttle system, where to stay, best hikes, weather, permits, wildlife, dogs, crowds, and what most visitors underestimate about the park. This is the foundation episode for our Grand Canyon mini-series and the perfect guide for first-time visitors or anyone planning a return trip. Topics covered: South Rim vs North RimBest time to visitGrand Canyon shuttle tipsLodging & campingBeginner and advanced hikesDogs & kids at the Grand CanyonWildlife encountersWhat NOT to miss#GrandCanyon #NationalParks #TravelPodcast #ArizonaTravel #OutdoorAdventure

    10 min

  2. MAY 7

    The Zion Most People Skip: East Zion, Kolob Terrace & Kolob Canyons

    Most visitors spend 1–2 days in Zion Canyon and think they’ve fully experienced Zion National Park. Not even close. In this episode, we’re diving into the three most overlooked sections of Zion: East Zion, Kolob Terrace, and Kolob Canyons. From massive sandstone domes and scenic drives to backcountry adventures and underrated hikes, these areas completely change how you experience the park. We’re talking: East Zion viewpoints & hikesCanyon Overlook & Observation PointKolob Terrace planning tipsThe Subway & West Rim TrailKolob Canyons scenic driveTaylor Creek TrailHow to fit these into your itineraryWhat mistakes visitors makeWhich section is right for YOUIf you want to level up your Zion trip beyond Angels Landing and The Narrows, this episode is for you. 🎒 Free National Park Starter Guide at greatescapepodcast.com #ZionNationalPark #NationalParks #ZionTrip #TravelUtah #OutdoorTravel #AdventureTravel #UtahHiking

    9 min

  3. APR 30

    Best Hikes in Zion National Park (And Which One Is Right for You)

    Planning a trip to Zion National Park and wondering which hikes are actually worth it? In this episode, we break down the best hikes in Zion National Park and help you decide which ones fit your trip, your time, and your hiking style. You’ll learn: the top hikes in Zion (from easy to adventurous)how long each hike takeswhich hikes are best for views, sunsets, or unique experienceswhich hikes you can skip if you’re short on timeFrom iconic trails like Angels Landing and The Narrows to underrated options like Canyon Overlook and Watchman, this episode will help you plan smarter and avoid the most common mistakes. 🎧 Want the full itinerary? Listen to Episode 68: 3 Days in Zion — The Perfect Itinerary 🎒 Grab your free National Park Starter Guide + Zion Planner:www.greatescapepodcast.com #zionnationalpark #zionhiking #nationalparks #travelplanning #hikingtips #utahtravel #adventuretravel

    8 min

  4. APR 23

    Where to Stay in Zion National Park: Best Areas, Campgrounds & Hotels

    Planning a trip to Zion National Park and not sure where to stay? In this episode of The Great Escape, I break down the best places to stay in and around Zion, including: Zion Lodge (inside the park)Watchman, South, and Lava Point campgroundsStaying in Springdale vs HurricaneAnd a smart strategy if you’re visiting both Zion and Bryce Canyon National ParksI’ll walk you through the pros, cons, pricing, convenience, and logistics—so you can choose the best option for your trip. 🎯 Planning a trip? Grab your FREE National Park Starter Guide at https://www.greatescapepodcast.com 🎧 Next episode to listen to: Zion Mistakes to Avoid #zionnationalpark #nationalparktravel #travelpodcast #ziontips #utahtravel

    8 min

  5. APR 17

    Best Time to Visit Zion National Park (+ Avoid Crowds & Seasonal Tips)

    Trying to decide the best time to visit Zion National Park? The truth is—there’s no one “perfect” time… but there is a perfect time for YOU. In this episode, I break down exactly what it’s like to visit Zion in spring, summer, fall, and winter—including weather, crowds, trail conditions, and what most people get wrong when choosing their travel dates. You’ll learn: When Zion is most crowded (and how to avoid it)The best time to hike The Narrows and Angels LandingWhat to expect from each seasonThe cheapest time to visit ZionAnd my personal recommendation if I could only go onceIf you’re planning a Zion trip, this episode will help you choose the right time—and avoid the biggest mistakes. 🎯 Grab the National Park Starter Guide: www.greatescapepodcast.com #zionnationalpark #ziontrip #nationalparks #travelpodcast #utahtravel #hikingtips #travelplanning

    8 min

  6. APR 10

    3 Day Zion National Park Itinerary: Exactly What to Do

    Planning a trip to Zion National Park and not sure how to fit it all in? In this episode of The Great Escape, I’m walking you through exactly how to spend 3 days in Zion — from the must-do hikes like Angels Landing and The Narrows to scenic drives, underrated areas, and how to structure your days so you don’t burn out halfway through your trip. This is a straightforward, real itinerary you can follow — no overwhelm, no guesswork. We’ll cover: The best way to plan your 3 days in ZionHow to balance big hikes with easier experiencesWhat most people miss (and why you shouldn’t)Tips for making the most of your time in the parkIf you want a trip that feels organized, exciting, and actually doable… this is it. 🎯 Grab your Zion Trip Planner: www.greatescapepodcast.com

    7 min

  7. APR 2

    10 Zion Mistakes That Will Ruin Your Trip (And How to Avoid Them)

    Planning a trip to Zion National Park? Before you go, make sure you’re not making these common rookie mistakes. In this episode of The Great Escape Podcast, I break down the 10 biggest mistakes people make when visiting Zion — from not understanding the shuttle system to missing out on key hikes, underestimating crowds, and failing to plan ahead. These are the mistakes that can turn an incredible trip into a stressful one...and I’ll walk you through exactly how to avoid them so you can experience Zion the right way.If you want to save time, reduce stress, and make the most of your trip, this episode is for you. Zion Planner + Free National Park Starter Guide:www.greatescapepodcast.com

    8 min

  8. MAR 27

    Zion National Park Shuttle System Explained (Routes, Stops & Tips)

    Planning a trip to Zion National Park? The shuttle system is one of the most important — and most confusing — parts of visiting the park. In this episode, I walk you through exactly how the Zion shuttle system works, including the difference between the Zion Canyon shuttle and the Springdale shuttle, all 9 stops inside the park, and how to avoid common mistakes that can cost you time (or a very long walk back). Whether you're planning to hike The Narrows, Angels Landing, or just explore the canyon, this episode will help you feel confident navigating Zion. If you want help planning your trip, grab my Zion National Park Planner or download my free National Park Starter Guide at:👉 www.greatescapepodcast.com If you enjoy the episode, be sure to follow The Great Escape for more national park guides, travel tips, and outdoor adventures.

    10 min
See All (73)

Trailer

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Hey, explorers! My name is Katie Staples and I am an adventure enthusiast. I’m going to share my travel stories, tips, and tricks for exploring and creating unforgettable experiences and memories. If you are just looking to get out more, you’re craving a crazy getaway, or you’re an experienced nomad living in your sprinter van, this is the podcast for you.

Information

  • Creator
    Katie Staples
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    73
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Katie Staples
  • Show Website
    The Great Escape

You Might Also Like