Learn a little more about one of our Ultimate Outsiders, Aaron Dodson, from Mt. Pleasant, SC.

How long did it take you to visit all 47 parks?

A little less than a year and a half.

Favorite park?

It's so hard to choose.....probably Hunting Island, Goodale and Jones Gap.

Any tips for people just starting?

Definitely take your time -- it's not a race.  My personal rule was that I had to either hike every trail in the park or at lease three miles for it to count.  Check out programs and events ahead of time -- there's some really cool stuff going on, but you might need to sign up early.  The moonlight paddle at Cheraw especially is magical.  Enjoy the journey-- hop off I-26 and take some backroads.  Pick up an SC BBQ Trail map -- nothing beats some pulled pork after a long day out.

What inspired you to start this journey?

Both of my parents' careers were in the National Park Service (my dad was a superintendent at Fort Sumter), so I've always had an interest in parks, public lands and the outdoors.  When I heard about the Ultimate Outsider program it seemed like the perfect excuse to get out and relax on the weekends -- and hey, get a free T-shirt!