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!