What to say when she says she's hoping to finally visit the national parks this year

Look at how she phrased it. She said she's finally doing it and has been meaning to for years. That's someone talking about a personal project she has been putting off, and she is probably telling you because it's on her mind, not because she wants a companion. Reading it as an invitation will make you either overeager or awkwardly off-base.

The second detail is the timeline. "Before fall" tells you she has a rough schedule in her head. Notice whether she's giving you any hint about who she's going with or whether the trip is solo. If she says solo, she's probably proud of it and wants to hear that you think it's a good idea. If she mentions friends, she's just sharing context.

Naming a specific park is the most useful thing she gave you. Each one has its own feel, from crowded and iconic to remote and quiet, and people usually have a reason for picking one. Asking what drew her to it tells her you were listening and gives her room to talk about herself, which is what she actually wants to do here.

You don't need to know the park well. You only need to be curious about why it's on her list. If you do know something about it, mention it lightly and then go back to her reasons. Keep the focus on her and let the place serve as the reason she gets to talk.

Whether this stays a fun thing she mentioned or turns into a plan with you depends on how the conversation develops, and that is hers to shape. Wait until she has said what she's excited about and whether she's already sorted the logistics. Then, if the moment fits, you can offer something specific and easy to decline, like suggesting a trail you'd like to hear her take on or asking whether she wants a second opinion on dates.

If she's clearly going solo and has made up her mind, support the trip itself. People often remember who cheered for them when they set out to do something on their own.