Kerouacs Cruising

Looking for the best free camping near the Grand Canyon? In this episode, we uncover the top dispersed camping spots around the South Rim, from secluded sites in the pines to campsites just minutes from the park entrance. Whether you're tent camping, RVing, or just exploring, we’ve got insider tips to help you find the perfect spot.

🚐 Featured Camping Areas:

✔ FSR 688 – Easy access, secluded spots, and a camper favorite

✔ FSR 302 &am...

Join us on an unforgettable adventure as we hike Red Butte, take a scenic backroad drive, and witness one of Arizona’s breathtaking sunsets! In this episode, we share insider tips on timing your hike for the best views, what makes a sunset truly magical, and how to predict a spectacular sky.

From dusty desert days to monsoon storms, we break down the science and beauty behind Arizona’s legendary sunsets. Plus, we reflect on the peac...

James and Cara take you on a 24-hour Grand Canyon South Rim sprint with pups Bella, Norman, and Jewels! From Mather Point’s jaw-dropping views to the Rim Trail’s easy 2-mile stroll, Desert View Drive’s 25-mile haul, and a sunset at the funky Desert View Watchtower—we’ve got your day mapped. Dog-friendly tips (leash up, water up!)

Would you love a copy of our $7 Paws + People first aid guide? Grab it at [ko-fi.com/kerouacscruising/sh...

James and Cara from Kerouacs Cruising dive into the Grand Canyon’s South Rim trails—west to east, novice to expert! From Hermits Trail’s wild solitude (expert-only!) to Bright Angel’s iconic haul (water stops!), South Kaibab’s steep views, Shoshone Point’s secret picnic vibes (pup-friendly!), and Grandview’s eerie mine + Cave of the Domes—get the scoop. Tips: pack water, start early, tell someone—canyon’s no joke! Blog has maps + d...

Ready to explore the Grand Canyon like a nomad? In this episode of Kerouacs Cruising, Cara and James share their go-to services and spots after years of off-grid living near the Grand Canyon. Discover free RV dump stations at Mather Campground, affordable showers and laundry at the park’s laundromat, and grocery deals at the General Store. Need propane or a quick meal? Hit Love’s Truck Stop in Williams or Raptor Ranch in Valle. For...

In Limitless Learning: Jim Kwik’s Guide to Unlock Your Potential, Cara and James interrupt their Idaho road trip to share how Limitless by Jim Kwik transformed their lives. From their off-grid journey, they dive into Kwik’s strategies for speed reading, memory, focus, and lifelong learning. Cara reveals how these tools helped her build Kerouacs Cruising’s website and podcast, while James, once a reluctant reader, now devours books....

Welcome back to Kerouac Cruising! In this episode, James and Cara Kerouac kick off their grand adventure from the Grand Canyon to Sandpoint, Idaho. Join us as we dive into the detailed planning that went into this 1,361-mile journey, share tips on dispersed camping, and discuss traveling with our furry companions.

What You'll Learn:

• How we planned our route using tools like Google Maps, OnX, Gaia GPS, and Campendium.
• Tips for find...

Join Cara and James Kerouac on their epic road trip to Great Basin National Park in this episode of Kerouac's Cruising. Starting from Bullhead City, they navigate the scenic yet challenging drive through Nevada, sharing their experiences with Las Vegas traffic and the surprising beauty of northern Nevada's mountainous terrain.

Discover hidden gems along Highway 93, including an ideal dog-friendly pit stop and the picturesque Sacrame...

In this episode of "Kerouacs Cruising," join us as we traverse the breathtaking landscapes of northern Nevada and Idaho, highlighting our scenic drives, tranquil camping spots, and unique encounters with nature. We reflect on our stay at Silver Creek campsite, our adventures at Craters of the Moon, and answer listener and dear friend Caroline's question about the joys and challenges of off-grid living. Tune in to hear our thoughts ...

In this episode of Kerouac's Cruising, James and Cara share their unexpected journey from Craters of the Moon to Lima, Montana, and on to their final destination in Idaho. Tune in as they discuss:

• Their impromptu decision to head to Lima due to an incoming snowstorm.
• The warm and sunny weather in Lima and their experience camping by Little Sheep Creek.
• Exploring the rest area in Lima with its 24-hour amenities, dog park, and clean...

In this transformative episode of Kerouac’s Cruising, we delve into the profound impact mindfulness, meditation, and manifesting have had on our lives. Join us as we share personal stories of growth, from surviving a life-altering car accident to discovering inner peace and purpose.

We discuss the powerful lessons we've learned from Emily Fletcher’s Stress Less, Accomplish More and how these teachings have guided us towards a more m...

In this episode of Kerouac's Cruising, James and Cara take you on an adventure through the rugged and breathtaking terrain of Lightning Creek, located near Clark Fork, Northern Idaho. Discover the joys and challenges of true dispersed camping in the mountains, surrounded by the beauty of the national forest.

Highlights include:

• Camping in Bear Country: Learn about the precautions necessary for camping in an area inhabited by griz...

Join Cara and James as they uncover a hidden gem in Northern Idaho, a pristine spot for tubing, beachside relaxation, and nature hikes—one that's not on any maps! This episode takes you on their adventure near Sandpoint, Idaho, where they explore Gold Creek Trailhead, share a funny yet nerve-wracking encounter with porcupine quills, and discuss the charming Pack River Store. Plus, they answer listener questions about how the pandem...

In this episode of Kerouacs Cruising, James and Cara delve into the essentials of dispersed camping, sharing their must-have gear and practical tips for a comfortable and enjoyable outdoor adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or new to the experience, this episode will help you prepare for your next trip. Learn from their past mistakes, like the importance of a good sleeping mat (because rocks aren’t as soft as they look), a...

Join James and Cara from Kerouacs Cruising as they take you on an unforgettable journey through the scenic routes of Idaho and Montana, famously known as the "Booze Cruise." But don't let the name fool you—this adventure is all about soaking in the natural beauty, exploring remote spots, and sharing their candid thoughts and experiences. From hidden creeks to towering mountain ranges, this episode captures the essence of off-the-be...

In this moving episode, we sit down with Sylvie Stuart, a dear friend and inspiration who has transformed her life after facing incredible challenges. Diagnosed with stage 4 leukemia and lymphoma in 2012, Sylvie embarked on a healing journey that led her from the brink of organ failure to a thriving career in emotional healing through EFT (Emotional Freedom Techniques).

Sylvie shares her remarkable story of survival, from battling c...

In this episode of Kerouacs Cruising, James and Cara take you on another breathtaking adventure through the heart of Idaho's Panhandle. Venturing from Sandpoint, they explore the winding mountain roads and pristine wilderness of Trestle Creek, which eventually connects to the majestic Lightning Creek. Along the way, they discover hidden gems, such as the serene Huckleberry Campground, untouched wilderness, and a secret waterfall wi...

Join James and Cara of Kerouacs Cruising as they guide you through the remote landscapes of Idaho’s panhandle! In this episode, they uncover secret spots ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, dog lovers, and anyone craving an off-the-grid experience near Sandpoint. From Dufort Road’s peaceful public lands to Gold Mountain’s panoramic views of Lake Pend Oreille, you’ll discover hidden gems that are perfect for hiking, camping, and off-road...

In this episode of Kerouac’s Cruising, James and Cara wrap up their time in Idaho by diving into the outdoor adventures and unique local businesses that make Sandpoint a must-visit destination for any traveler. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or just looking for a peaceful getaway, Sandpoint offers year-round activities that rival some of the most famous travel spots.

Key Highlights:

• Explore Lake Pend Oreille, Idaho’s larges...