How many days do you need in Grand Teton National Park? How do you plan the perfect Grand Teton itinerary? The answer to these questions depends on two big factors. How much time do you have? And how much do you like to go hiking? For those who just want to see the main highlights, one day is really all …
15 Epic Hikes in Mount Rainier National Park
One of the best ways to experience Mount Rainier National Park is from a hiking trail, of which there are many. Some of the best hikes in Mount Rainier National Park are short and sweet, offering jaw-dropping views with very little effort. But for those who crave more adventure or want to journey deep into the park, there are plenty …
17 Great Hikes in Olympic National Park (+ Map & Photos)
One thing that makes Olympic National Park so unique is its wide variety of landscapes and ecosystems. In this one park, you can hike to mountain peaks, stroll through lush, temperate rainforests, and explore the rugged, rocky coastline. In this post, we list 17 of the best hikes in Olympic National Park…17 great ways to explore this wonderful national park. …
14 Amazing Things to do in Mount Rainier National Park
Mount Rainier is a glacier-capped, active volcano that can be seen from hundreds of miles away. In the summer months, the lower slopes are carpeted with wildflowers. With its old growth forests and network of hiking trails, this is an outdoor paradise for many travelers. In this post, we cover the best things to do in Mount Rainier National Park. …
16 Epic Day Hikes in Capitol Reef National Park
If you are looking for a great hike to do in Capitol Reef, the list is surprisingly long. In Capitol Reef, you can hike to arches that are tucked away in the colorful sandstone mountains, through easy slot canyons, and up to overlooks with jaw-dropping views. In this post, we share 16 amazing day hikes in Capitol Reef National Park. …
How to Hike the Silver Falls Loop Trail, Mount Rainier National Park
The Silver Falls Loop Trail is a wonderful short hike in Mount Rainier National Park. What it lacks in views of Mount Rainier it makes up for in its easy walkability and breathtaking views of Silver Falls. This short, easy trail is perfect for all ages and ability levels. Less than 4 miles in length, with just a small amount …
One Perfect Day in Rocky Mountain National Park
If you only have one day in Rocky Mountain National Park, what should you do? The answer to this question depends on several factors…the time of year you plan to visit Rocky Mountain National Park, if you are traveling with children, how much you like to hike, and if you are acclimated to the higher elevation. With one day in …
How to Hike to Surprise, Amphitheater, and Delta Lake
The hike to Amphitheater and Surprise Lakes is one of the more popular hikes to do in Grand Teton National Park. It’s a tough hike but your reward is a visit to two stunning alpine lakes. On this hike, you have the option to add on a third lake, Delta Lake. Once a hidden gem in Grand Teton National Park, …
One Perfect Day in Grand Teton National Park
Grand Teton National Park has something for everyone. Hikers will love the long list of trails that head into the Teton mountain range. Photographers will love capturing sunrise at Mormon Row and Oxbow Bend. Families will love the easy to visit overlooks, crossing Jenny Lake by boat, and spotting moose and elk as you drive through the park. If you …
12 Amazing Things to Do in The Needles, Canyonlands National Park
The Needles is an often overlooked section of Canyonlands National Park. But those who take the time to visit the Needles are rewarded with thrilling, unique hiking trails, low crowds, and jaw-dropping views of Canyonlands National Park. In this post, we cover the 12 best things to do in the Needles…12 great reasons why this part of Canyonlands National Park …
The Castle Trail: One of the Best Hikes in Badlands National Park
The Castle Trail is a 5-mile, point-to-point trail that wanders through the “backcountry” of Badlands National Park. There are several different ways to hike this trail, depending on your interests and the amount of time and energy you have. In this post, learn about your different options and pick out the route that is best for you. Overview of the …
How to Hike Death Canyon to the Static Peak Divide | Grand Teton National Park
There are several reasons to hike to the Static Peak Divide. Early on in the hike, you have beautiful views over Phelps Lake. The walk through Death Canyon is gorgeous and this is a great place to spot wildlife. Bear and moose are frequently seen here. We didn’t see bear when we did this hike, but we did see several …
One Week in South Dakota Itinerary: Black Hills & the Badlands
There are many different ways to spend one week in South Dakota. This itinerary focuses on the southwestern corner of the state, visiting sights located in and around the Black Hills. There is a long list of things to do in this part of South Dakota. Here are the things you will see on this South Dakota itinerary: Mount Rushmore …
Complete Guide to the Maple Pass Loop | North Cascades National Park
The Maple Pass Loop offers a little bit of everything…wildflowers, old growth forests, a visit to a lovely alpine lake, and (the best part) panoramic views of the North Cascades. Although it is not located in North Cascades National Park, you bump right up against the park border. From the highest points along the trail, you will have spectacular views …
How to Hike the Staircase Rapids Loop in Olympic National Park
The Staircase Rapids Loop is an underrated trail in Olympic National Park. On this short, easy hike, you will walk along the North Fork of the Skokomish River, through a temperate rainforest, with views of waterfalls and rapids. Just under 3 miles long, this trail loops up and around Staircase Rapids. With waterfalls, dense forests, and fallen trees, this is …
Rim Overlook & Navajo Knobs Trail | Capitol Reef National Park
The hike to Navajo Knobs is our favorite hike in Capitol Reef National Park. It’s a long, tough hike but what an incredible journey! From the valley floor, you will steadily hike up to the Rim Overlook, for jaw-dropping views over Fruita, Highway 24, and Scenic Drive. The trail continues its climb for another 2.5 miles, with views over Castle …
6 Things to do on the North Rim of Black Canyon of the Gunnison
Only a fraction of the visitors to Black Canyon of the Gunnison make the trip to the North Rim. Those that do are rewarded with a wonderfully quiet, uncrowded experience and views that beat those from the South Rim. Similar to the South Rim, you can drive the rim road, stopping at overlooks along the way. There are also several …
Hiking the Mount Fremont Lookout Trail | Mount Rainier National Park
The Mount Fremont Fire Lookout hike was our introduction to Mount Rainier National Park and what a great first impression!! Without spending much effort, you get awesome views of Mount Rainier for most of the hike, not to mention stunning views over the Sunrise side of the park. If you are looking for a hike that’s not too long, not …
14 Amazing Things to Do in Capitol Reef National Park
Capitol Reef, often an overlooked national park, is full of many wonderful surprises. With an amazing scenic drive, hiking trails that rival those in Zion, rugged, remote areas to explore by 4×4, short, easy slot canyons, historical landmarks, and even delicious pie, this national park is absolutely amazing. In this post, learn about the best things to do in Capitol …
Best Hike in Custer State Park: Little Devils Tower, Cathedral Spires & Black Elk Peak Loop
Custer State Park has a great list of hiking trails, ranging from easy, lakeshore strolls to fun rock scrambles to challenging climbs to the highest peaks. You can combine three of these trails into one loop, creating what just might be the best hike in Custer State Park. This loop includes three of Custer’s top hiking destinations: Cathedral Spires, Little …