As we wrap up National Park Week, Park Chasers launching our 2019 “Park Chaser Profiles” series. Each Q & A interview features the story of a national park traveler. Whether you are visiting your first park or your 400th, we hope the travel tips and shared experience helps inspire your next national park adventure. Our first post in the 2019 series features Wes Turner, the founder, and creator of the online community: Perfect Hike.
Meet Wes – @PerfectHike
Park Chaser Profile: Wes Turner from Perfect Hike
Total Park Count: 14 of 419
Most Recent Park: Yosemite National Park, California
Next Park Planning to Visit: Banff National Park, CanadaM
Where can we find you online?
You can follow my adventures through blogs, pictures, videos, and more at http://perfecthike.com. I love to write about my National Park trips and document incredible experiences that I’ll never forget.
Website: http://perfecthike.com
Facebook: @perfecthike
Instagram: @perfecthike
Wes also produces these great hiking videos on his
What Wes has to say about the national parks
How did your interest in the national parks get started?
My passion for national parks actually started at a state park, the biggest state park in the US in fact. The Adirondacks in upstate New York is still my favorite place to hike. The first time I went was in October just as the leaves started to change colors. That experience will always stick with me and began my love for hiking.
If you ever get a chance to explore the very underrated northeastern trails, you won’t be disappointed!
What is one of your favorite national park experiences?
My absolute favorite story is hiking Half Dome of Yosemite National Park. The ascent up the cables was one of the most exhilarating moments of my life and the view from the summit made the 12 hour round trip hike more than worth it.
If you’re ever interested in hiking Half Dome, check out my comprehensive guide: Complete Guide to Hiking Half Dome 2019 to learn everything you’ll need to know!
Travel Tips from @perfecthike
What tips would you give to someone who is just starting their parkchasing list? Anything you wish you would have known from the beginning?
Enjoy the moment! Pictures and videos are great, but make sure you truly savor the views and beauty first. Start by visiting and supporting your more local parks first. Do what you can to contribute to the conservation and betterment!
What advice do you have for friends and family who ask about the amount of time and money it takes to travel so much?
I really believe that traveling and exploring all that the world has to offer is one of the most valuable things you can do during your life. Travel can be expensive but don’t let a budget determine whether you visit a beautiful place or stay home inside. If you’re ever on the fence about taking a trip, my advice to you is, do it! When it’s all said and done, all we have are our memories.
1 thought on “Park Chaser Profiles: Wes & Perfect Hike”
Nice interview! Thanks for the post