Walk the Parks: 10,000 Miles, 30 National Parks, 2 Feet, 1 Dream

“Walk the Parks: 10,000 Miles, 30 National Parks, 2 Feet, 1 Dream”
Blake Robinson

“Walk The Parks” is Blake Robinson’s journey exploring all of the National Parks in the lower 48. Known as “DELUXE” on the trails for his opulent on-trail lifestyle and super excited personality, Blake has hiked nearly 10,000 miles since July 2017 as part of this adventure. The route started off by creating his own 3,000 mile thru-hike connecting 13 National Parks in Wyoming, Colorado, Utah, Nevada, and AZ – from Yellowstone to the Grand Canyon – followed by a thru hike of the Appalachian Trail, a road trip exploring some parks, and most recently a 2,500 mile journey along the Pacific Crest Trail, where he visited the 30th National Park of the trip in October 2019.

Why would someone attempt an endeavor like this? Long-distance hiking is Blake’s true passion! “Walk The Parks” is an immersive experience in nature, an exploration of the many small towns of America, a seemingly never-ending string of making positive connections with strangers, and an exploration of the concept of some National Parks being “loved to death.” Blake has also had the opportunity to lead presentations at schools on the importance of goal-setting as part of the adventure. Throughout his journey, Blake has volunteered with trail crews, hitchhiked on rafts, randomly ended up at a private beachfront concerts, sailed below Mt. Shasta, and so much more! If you say “yes” whenever you can, it’s amazing the places you’ll end up. Why not? Isn’t the “normal” life plan a bit played out? Shouldn’t all of us be chasing our dreams?

This journey has been far more than an extended camping trip. An impossible-seeming goal gets more and more real with each step taken down the trail. Since the start, the goals of “Walk The Parks” have continued to evolve, injuries have occurred, amazing people have been met, connections have been made, and dreams have been realized.

What is Potbelly Perspectives?

ACES’ Potbelly Perspectives speaker series features Aspen locals and visitors who share their exciting accounts of world travel and adventure through images and stories.

From January through March, this speaker series takes place every Wednesday evening at 7PM at Hallam Lake, providing an opportunity for community-building and story-telling that engages Aspen locals and visitors alike. Tea, donated by Two Leaves Tea Company, beer donated by Breckenridge Brewery, and Paradise Bakery cookies are offered.