#opt outside by Rachel Holloway

Welcome back to #OptOutside: SUMMER FUNd — the podcast where we celebrate parenting in nature, on a budget, and from the heart.

Welcome back to Trail Talk Tuesday!

This week, we’re bringing back a listener favorite: Crafts & Snacks — because let’s be honest, there’s never enough of either during summer break.

After a quick summer break, we’re back!

Hello and welcome back to #OPT OUTSIDE’s Trail Talk Tuesday—where we pack light, laugh loud, and always opt outside! 🌞 This week, we're kind of leaving Richmond… but not really! Join me as we head to Fort Boonesborough State Park, a location packed with historical significance, peaceful trails, and plenty of outdoor charm. 👣 Here’s what you’ll hear about:

• 📜 The fascinating backstory of Fort Boonesborough, founded by Daniel Boone in 1775 and once a thriving Revolutionary War outpost
• 🏕️ What the reconstructed fort looks like today (think log cabins, blockhouses, and live reenactments!)
• 🚫 Why you can no longer swim at the “beach,” but what else you can do by the river—hello kayaking, fishing, and picnicking
• 🌿 A walk-through of the Fort Boonesborough Campground Loop Trail (aka the Pigeon Forge Trail)
  • 0.9 miles, easy loop
  • Quiet, shaded, and a bit overgrown—but totally doable
  • Highlights include a lovely creek, wooden bridge, and views of the reconstructed fort
• 🐜 Why you’ll want bug spray and a good tick-check routine
• ☀️ Tips to enjoy your summer trail days without overheating (hydration, sun protection, portable fans—do it up!)

Whether you’re a history buff, a parent looking for a peaceful adventure, or just want to walk somewhere new without a big time commitment, this spot is worth a visit. Even if you’ve walked trails like this before, the surroundings and historical backdrop make it truly unique.

Welcome back to #OPTOUTSIDE!

Hey friends, and welcome back to Trail Talk Tuesday! Okay, okay… it's actually Friday, but Kentucky weather had other plans this week 😅

Welcome back to #OptOutside, where we chase sunshine, fun, and unforgettable memories—without draining your wallet!

Welcome back to #OptOutside and thanks for tuning in to our first Weekly Wrap-Up episode—your Sunday snapshot of the outdoor adventures (and indoor confessions) from the past week! This week was a mix of chaos, celebrations, and real talk. From creek days and an Avril Lavigne concert to soccer camp drop-offs and way too much computer time—we're keeping it honest here. I didn't get outside as much as I’d like, but hey, even the smallest moments matter. Think: cereal breakfasts under the sun and hammock hangs. And the big weekend win? I jogged a 5K! My daughter inspired it, my dad and boyfriend joined in, and even though I struggled—I’m proud and already signed up for another one. (Send motivation!) Looking ahead: It’s my daughter’s birthday week, so expect sunshine, celebration, and more summer FUNd adventures. Tomorrow’s regular episode dives into affordable summer fun ideas, and Trail Talk Tuesday returns with a spotlight on another awesome Kentucky destination! 🔥 Highlights:

• Creek day memories & an Avril concert recap
• Juggling work and play (mostly work 😅)
• Hammock hangs & cereal in the sun
• My first (jogged) 5K and how it became a family affair
• Exciting things ahead for birthday week & Trail Talk Tuesday

What You’ll Hear About:

• Free and low-cost National Park experiences near YOU
• How to use NPS.gov to explore what your state has to offer
• The difference between entrance passes (including FREE ones like the 4th Grader Pass!)
• Why doing your research ahead of time can save your trip
• Rachel’s personal camping story from Zion and Bryce Canyon
• Special tips for Kentucky listeners, including highlights from Cumberland Gap, Camp Nelson & Mammoth Cave
• The National Park free entrance days (Heads up: they’re BUSY!)
• And a few must-pack hiking essentials to keep your family safe and ready for the trail!

 Plus: Don’t miss Rachel’s exciting SUMMER FUND monthly giveaway! 25% of anything earned this season goes back to the community. Enter via Instagram by June 27th — just follow, share, and DM your screenshot! 💬 Reminder: Whether you’re road-tripping out west or adventuring close to home, nature is for everyone. Let’s add a National Park (or two!) to that summer bucket list. 🔗 Resources Mentioned:

• National Parks Official Site: NPS.gov
• AllTrails App for Hiking Maps
• Follow us on IG for giveaway updates and free park days: [Insert IG Handle]

This week’s Weekly Wrap-Up episode is full of family fun, real-life parenting wins (and a few flops), and an honest look at what it means to prioritize the outdoors in the chaos of everyday life.

Trail Talk Tuesday | Episode 2

Welcome back to #OptOutside: KY & Beyond!

Lets go to Camp Catalpa! 

Welcome to the very first episode of #Opt Outside: KY & Beyond!

Hey there and welcome to the very first episode of #Opt Outside: KY & Beyond – a podcast where we trade screen time for sunshine and make epic summer memories on a budget!

Welcome to #Opt Outside!