Category: national parks

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national parks

Exploring Zion in One Day: Must-Hike Trails and Stunning Views

Zion National Park, nestled in the heart of southern Utah, is a breathtaking destination known for its towering red rock cliffs, lush canyon floors, and exhilarating, must-hike trails. As Utah’s first national park, Zion Canyon offers an alluring blend of natural beauty and adventure— so immense it’s truly difficult to capture in any single photograph. With its awe-inspiring landscapes and diverse ecosystems, Zion truly lives up to its reputation as one of America’s most beloved natural treasures.

There are so many unique hikes and scenic experiences in Zion, we generally recommend spending at least two days in the park; however, the magnitude of beauty in Zion is certainly worth making the drive— even for a single day. It may may feel brief, but one full day of Zion exploration is enough time to pack in a thrilling, adventure-filled experience.

Fast Facts About Zion National Park

Size:  232 square miles

Visitors: 5,039,835 visitors annually (data from 2021)

Highest elevation: 8,726 feet — Horse Ranch Mountain peak

Distance from St. George Airport: 45 miles — 1 hour drive 

Distance from Las Vegas Airport: 170 miles — 3 hour drive

National Park Initiation: November 19th, 1919 by President Woodrow Wilson 

Zion is truly one of our favorite national parks. You can see pictures and have some appreciation for the magnitude, but there’s nothing quite like going and experiencing it for yourself. While all land protected by the National Park Service is important and beautiful in its own way, some parks are just more engaging to visit than others. Sometimes spending just an afternoon wandering around is enough to wet your beak and feel as though you saw the gist. That will not be enough at Zion!!!

Below we have detailed all of our favorite hikes, where to grab a bite, and how-to’s for navigating transportation— as well as all the tips and tricks that will ensure you have the best time.

When to Visit

Best time to visit is approximately from the end of May through June and September into early November. The weather gets so hot in July and August, it becomes hard to maximize your outside time. If you visit too early into the spring, you might not be able to do one of the most amazing hikes, the Narrows, as melting snow increases the flow rate through the canyon making it unsafe for visitors. There’s certainly beauty to visiting in the dead of winter, it just makes for a completely different experience!

We visited Zion at the end of May and felt it was the perfect time of year to visit! All the hikes were open and weather was as perfect as it could be!

Packing Essentials
  • water bottle — make sure you fill it before every hike!!
  • snacks — if you’re not used to heat and elevation changes, it can fatigue you even more quickly. It’s never a bad idea to have a little extra sustenance… plus who doesn’t enjoy a little treat as they take in the views??
  • hiking backpack — an 8-15L hiking backpack is usually pretty lightweight and it’s a nice not to worry about carrying your water bottle, phone, and snacks
  • trekking poles — a walking stick or trekking poles are never a bad idea. These are beneficial for a multitude of hikes, especially if you would consider yourself a little on the de-trained side. Even for fit individuals, some of the elevation climbs can be a kick in the pants!
  • sunscreen — sun protection is important!
  • hat — one of the trail below has very minimal shade, so it’s never a bad idea to bring a little of your own (especially if you end up hiking in high UV hours)
  • Layers, layers, layers — despite hot temperatures during the day, the early mornings and evenings can still be quite chilly. Plus the temperature can vary by elevation or lack of sun exposure (i.e. deep in a canyon)
  • waterproof backpack (optional) — if you own one, bring it! One of the must-hike trails is pretty water immersive, so having a waterproof backpack is nice. Alternatively, you could always put anything you don’t want soaked in a ziplock or dry-bag.
The Shuttle Scuttle 

To minimize traffic through the park in busy months a free shuttle services run from March to November both in the park itself and in the adjacent town of Springdale. Both shuttles have nine stops. The shuttle in the park takes visitors to various areas in the park itself, while the Springdale shuttle transports people staying or parking in town up to the park entrance.

The Springdale shuttle service is more necessary than one might think due to parking in Zion typically being full by 8-9am. In the months the shuttles are running, Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is closed to private vehicles, so using the shuttle system is the fastest way to maneuver through the park– unless you’re keen to rent a bike! There are a plethora of shuttles running, so one is never waiting toooo long for their ride. No tickets are issued. People simply fill the buses on a first come first serve basis.

Staying hydrated throughout the day is incredibly important. Water-bottle refilling stations can be found at Zion Canyon Line shuttle stops 1,2,5,6, and 9. 

Where to Stay

If you’re spending the day at Zion, you’re either driving in for the day or you’re going to end up spending one night in/near the park. Springdale is close enough that it makes for a convenient base camp, but nothing is quite as convenient as staying IN the park! Staying in the park! In-park accommodations tend to either be very economical (camping) or a little on the spendier side (lodge living).

The Watchman Campground and South Campground are both fabulous location— within a 1/2 mile of the South Entrance of the park.

There’s nothing that exudes ‘national park ambiance’ like a rad campground in an awesome park, but if you’re only visiting for a day—especially if it’s in high season— we actually recommend shelling out for the Zion Lodge. A huge perk of staying at the Zion Lodge is that you are permitted to drive on Zion Canyon Scenic Drive up to the Lodge (a restricted area to all other park visitors late spring through fall). This access is allotted via a code, which must be provided for gate entry.

Why does this matter? If your Lodge reservation check-in is Monday at 4pm, but you wanted to arrive at the park and hike before your check-in time, you are able to park your car (for free) at the Lodge for that entire day. It is also super convenient to be able to come and go from the park as you please without reliance on the shuttle!

An Action-Packed Day

One day in Zion brings a breathtaking glimpse of some of the most renown landscapes in the southwest. From hiking up the illustrious Angels Landing trail to wading through the Narrows slot canyon, one day in the park will be quite memorable! Throughout the day, you’ll be immersed in the towering red cliffs, lush canyon scenery, and a vibrant of desert ecosystem— making it a truly unforgettable outdoor experience.

Angels Landing 

While views abound throughout the park, there are a few hikes Zion is renowned for. The first of which is Angel’s Landing. This steep hike was once thought to be inaccessible to humans, hence its name. In the time since, it has become a well worn path, with chains for anxious hikers to hold onto as they make their accent. 

Before you make it to the chains, you have to get through the wiggles— a series of switchbacks not toooo far before the viewpoint you hit before you make the climb up the chains.

Due to this trail’s popularity, crowding started to become an issue, so the park launched a lottery permit system for interested visitors to throw their hat in the ring. If you’re planning your trip in advance, this is something you will want to look into because the lottery system operates on windows. For example, if you plan to visit between March 1st – May 31st, the lottery is open January 1st – January 20th.

If you are one of the lucky ones in the lottery, try to snag one of the early morning time slots. Clocking in at a little under 2,000 ft of elevation, with varying amounts of exposure, this is not a hike I would be keen to start at 1pm.

For those that don’t win it big in the lottery, hiking to the Scout Lookout via West Rim Trail provides a pretty comparable view. If you are hiking all the way up to Angel’s Landing, you must start the hike in your given time window. For those hiking to Scout’s Lookout, we recommend getting an early start— especially if you are visiting in the summer months.

Brunchin’

After a rewarding morning hike, it’s not a bad idea to grab a bite, rest your legs for a bit, and pack your (waterproof or quick-dry) bag up for the next adventure.

The lodge is centrally located in the park at shuttle stop 5, but it’s also a pretty easy walk from the Angel’s Landing trailhead. The Castle Dome Cafe serves coffee and light breakfast bites in the morning as well as burgers and hot dogs and french fries throughout the afternoon. Some local microbrews can be found in the beer cart on the cafe’s patio. It’s a breezy spot to hang out, or you can grab food to-go and eat it out on the green in front of the lodge.

If it’s closer to lunch time when you finish your hike, the Red Rock Grill can be found within the lodge, and it makes for a perfect spot to rest your weary legs while you chow down, with a variety of delicious plate options. We both devoured 1/2 pound burgers after hiking Angel’s Landing, and I can honestly say a burger has never tasted better!

The Narrows

Arguably Zion’s most unique and iconic hike, the Narrows is completely different than Angels’s Landing but similar in the awe-inspiring experience they afford. The Narrows is an adventurous trek through the most narrow section of Zion Canyon. It feels surreal to hike through the gorge, with sandstone walls stretching up thousands of feet, but what makes this hike even more one-of-a-kind is that over half the trek is spent walking– or rather wading– through the Virgin River.

In the spring, the melting snow can make the water flowing through the canyon too dangerous for hikers to endeavor, so be sure to check the flow rate to get an idea of the feasibility of going. The Narrows closes down if the river’s flow rate exceeds 150 cubic feet per second (CFS). 

Also be sure to check the weather before you go hiking– anytime you plan to hike a slot canyon, like the Narrows. Even little rain can be dangerous because water levels rise exponentially faster, making flash flooding a real risk. The National Weather Service monitors ten park areas in southern Utah for likelihood of flash flooding and issues each one a flash flood potential rating. Checking for likelihood of flooding as well as keeping an eye on imminent weather is super easy to do, and just might save your life! 

man walking in slot canyon in Zion National Park; hiking the Narrows, one of the must-hike trails
Hike it Out

Most park visitors hike the Narrows bottom-up, and this does not require a permit. Hiking from the bottom up means starting at Temple of Sinawava (shuttle stop #9) and hiking as far as Big Spring. The beauty of the bottom-up hike is that there is no specific viewpoint you are hiking to, because hiking through the canyon itself is the view. This means you could spend an hour hiking or you could spend all day! A true choose-you-own-adventure kind of hike. 

Especially if you are starting this hike late morning or early afternoon, you might not have time tot do the whole thing, but even spending a few hours out hiking around will provide the essence of the experience. Due to the popularity of this hike, it will get crowded. The silver lining is that even in the middle of the day, the farther you hike into the canyon, the less people you will see. Another bonus? Even on warm days the cool water feels refreshing.

map via www.zionguru.com

Another way to pull away from the crowds is to take the detour towards Veiled Falls. You will definitely got wet and might need to be prepared to do a little scrambling/heft yourself up, but it’s definitely worth it to have a slice of the canyon a bit more to yourself.

OOTD

A special outfit for a hike? Think less about fashion and more about functionality! The wet and wild nature of this hike makes attire a bit different than your morning hike.

Depending on the time of year you might be able to get away with wearing your hiking boots, trail runners, or even Chacos in the river, but canyoneering boots are the shoe of choice for extra stability. Also remember that if you go hiking in a pair of boots, you will likely want/need to ensure they are dry before you plan you use them again or pack them.

Equipment rentals, such as Zion Outfitter, will provide canyoneering boots, neoprene socks, a wooden walking stick, and dry pants (as necessary). If you are considering doing any substantial portion of the water-trek, we do recommend either packing or renting this gear as it can make or break your experience. 

If you have trekking poles and the river isn’t predicted to have tooo high a flow rate, this can work as a suitable alternative to the rented wooden walking stick, BUT, it’s worth noting, the wooden walking sticks are sturdier. You will likely see at least one person take an unexpected dunk in the water… hopefully it’s not you!

Zion Outfitter is in the Canyon Village area, just outside the park. They are pretty flexible and will let you pick up your equipment rental the evening before if you’re hoping to get out early the day of your hike!

A Well deserved drink

Just outside the entrance to the park, you will find the Zion Canyon Village. The Zion Canyon Brew Pub has both a restaurant as well as a beer garden area for weary hikers to rest their bones. This makes for a perfect spot to go grab a beer and rest a bit after a day full of hiking!

Sunset & stars

What better way to end the day than an etherial sunset and some stargazing? While the stars really shine, Zion’s grandiose topography prevents visitors from actually watching the sun settle into the horizon. The sunset hour still affords enviable views as the cotton candy colored clouds and watercolor sky make for a gorgeous backdrop to the tangerine canyons as the sunlight fades. 

The Pa’rus Trail is an excellent option for both sunset and star gazers. Canyon Junction Bridge was once a lovely spot to watch the sun set, but it now has signs up prohibiting pedestrian loitering (park rangers will patrol the area around sunset to make people move).

adventuring in awe through zion canyon on the pa'rus trail
views along the Pa’rus Trail

One day in Zion might leave you feeling a little exhausted, but it’s practically guaranteed you’ll leave with a full heart. The staggering canyon walls are immense in a way that’s difficult to capture in any single photograph, so revel in the magnitude while you’re there! If you have time, we do recommend spending at least two days in Zion. It allows for just a little bit more time to explore— you can check out our two day itinerary here. Regardless, we hope you have the best time exploring Zion!

Zion is one of five national parks in Utah. Be sure to check out Bryce Canyon, Arches, Capitol Reef, and Canyonlands as well, to truly appreciate all of the Utah national park topography! Happy travels!

written by Hannah 

Hannah traded the warm beaches of southwest FL for the outdoor adventure locale that is Bend, OR. Despite the distance, Hannah maintains her bossy big sister role with regular phone calls to keep up with all the little sister shenanigans. Notoriously chatty with her patients as well, Hannah stays busy as a physical therapist, but loves making time to explore newfound hikes. These days she has some extra pack weight; however, Xavier is notorious for being unimpressed by sweeping vistas.

Categories
national parks travel

How to Make the Most of 48 Hours in Yosemite as a Solo Adventurer

Yosemite National Park is a breathtaking wonderland nestled in California’s Sierra Nevada mountains, known worldwide for its dramatic granite cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and ancient, towering sequoias. From the moment you enter Yosemite Valley, you’re greeted by a majestic, almost surreal panorama: the sheer face of El Capitan rising nearly 3,000 feet above the valley floor, Half Dome’s iconic silhouette etched against the sky, and the enchanting mist of Bridalveil Fall tumbling down rocky slopes. Don’t let the prospect of adventuring by yourself deter you from seeing these staggering feats of nature. 48 hours in Yosemite is the perfect amount of time to see the most unforgettable sights, go on a few awe-inspiring hikes, and watch a breathtaking sunset or two.

These landscapes are more than scenic—they are a rare, living testament to the power of glaciers, volcanic activity, and tectonic forces that shaped the land over millions of years. Each vista in Yosemite offers a new sense of wonder and awe, combining rugged, untouched beauty with a peaceful serenity that draws millions of visitors each year. It’s no wonder Yosemite is consistently one of the most-visited parks parks in the National Park System!

Fast Facts About Yosemite National Park

Size:  747,956 acres

Visitors: 3,897,070 visitors annually (data from 2023)

Highest elevation: 13,114 feet at Mount Lyell

Closest Airports: Fresno-Yosemite (FAT) and Mammoth Yosemite (MMH) airports are both ~2.5 hour drive to Yosemite Valley; Sacramento Airport (SMF) is ~3.5 hour drive to Yosemite Valley

National Park Initiation: October 1st, 1890 by an Act of Congress (3rd national park in the USA)

Fun Fact: Yosemite is home to three groves of sequoias, and the oldest one— Grizzly Giant— is estimated to be about 3,000 years old

Yosemite’s place in history as one of the first protected landscapes in the world adds to its legacy. In 1864, during the heart of the Civil War, President Abraham Lincoln signed the Yosemite Grant. This made Yosemite Valley and Mariposa Grove the first public land ever set aside by the U.S. government for preservation and public use. This landmark decision was the foundation of the National Park system (NPS). 

While Yellowstone is heralded as the first national park, much of the nomenclature used to protect Yellowstone land was modeled after the Yosemite Grant. The big difference? Yosemite is housed entirely in California, whereas Yellowstone occupies regions of Wyoming, Idaho, and Montana. Due to its multi-state occupancy Yellowstone became the first park protected nationally. Yosemite was not long after! In 1890, Yosemite was officially designated as a national park, making it the third in the NPS. Today, it stands not only as a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers but as a symbol of America’s commitment to preserving its most extraordinary natural treasures for future generations. 

The Most Wonderful Time of the Year 

The most popular time of year to visit is summer into early fall, with the highest visitation in July and August. This time of year, you can expect temperatures to get up into the 80s and 90s, but it will cool off into the 50s in the evening. 

Having just visited mid-October, I am a staunch supporter of the slightly-off-season visit! With highs in the 70s, it was perfect for hiking… but not too cold to camp through the evening! No real chance of snow and likelihood of rain is still pretty minimal. The only downside is that the park has dried out some. Mirror Lake becomes more of an enchanting puddle and the Mist Trail is much less likely to soak you, compared to early summer. None of this takes a way from the beauty of the park— just a slightly different experience. Worth it, in my opinion, to deal with almost HALF as many fellow visitors!!

girl taking selfie with tunnel view in yosemite national park as a backdrop — a must visit spot when you only have 48 hours in Yosemite
Thou Shall Not Pass

Due to issues with congestion and traffic in the park, a timed reservation system has been implemented at Yosemite. This only is in place during the busy season! In 2024, this was as follows: 

4/13 – 6/30Reservations only required for weekends and holidays from 5 am to 4 pm
7/1 – 8/16Reservations required daily from 5 am to 4 pm
8/17 – 10/ 13Reservations only required for weekends and holidays from 5 am to 3 pm

This differs from the $35/vehicle entrance fee everyone pays for admission into the park. The entry fee is enforced year-round as it’s important for preserving and maintaining the park. The timed entry reservation system is completely different! Its sole purpose being to control the influx of people into the park. This is an online reservation system, so there is a $2 fee. You can make your ticketed entry reservations here. 

If you have camping or lodging reservations in the park or are on a park-authorized commercial tour, you do not need to worry about securing a timed entry reservation. 

Accommodation Station 

Yosemite National Park offers a diverse range of lodging options. If you’re looking to stay in the park and enjoy a bit more comfort and style, there’s a few different historic lodge and hotel options. For outdoorsmen (and women) more keen to be surrounded by nature’s simplicity, you actually have two different kinds of options here. There are 13 campgrounds in the park for a “typical” tent-camping experience. There’s also a handful of hybrid camping options including some permanent canvas tents and structures in the backcountry. Regardless of where you’re resting your head, each option brings a unique way to experience Yosemite. There really is a perfect retreat for every kind of adventurer. 

As noted above, a nice perk of staying in the park is this precludes you from needing a timed entry pass, if you happen to be visiting during the high season months. Two birds with one stone!

Yosemite will sometimes close down an area for a season to do maintenance. All Lodge and Modified Camping availability is visible using the links below or at travelyosemite.com. Similarly, campground closures and anticipated re-openings can be found at recreation.gov. 

Lodges 
photo of Ahwahnee via travelyosemite.com
Modified Camping/Permanent Tents
  • Housekeeping Camp – three-sided concrete structures with canvas roofs and privacy curtains
  • High Sierra Camps – backpacking to permanent structures (requires lottery participation) 
  • Tuolumne Meadows Lodge – canvas tent “cabins” 
  • Glacier Point Ski Hut – large bunk bed area that sleeps up to 20 people in a single room (only open in winter; must transverse backcountry to arrive) 
photo of Housekeeping Camp via travelyosemite.com
Campgrounds*
camp 4 campground

* Campsites go like HOTCAKES!!! Campgrounds will be fully booked up weeks in advance, but there’s hope for last minute campers. I snagged 3 nights in the park with less than a week’s notice using Campflare. It’s an app that will let you know when a campsite in a given campground becomes available. Be prepared to act fast though because things do not stay vacant long! 

** It’s worth noting, Camp 4 is an awesome campground, but it has a bit more of a hostel feel than other spots in the park, as it’s a shared site campground. Also, you do have to walk your tent and camp items a short distance. Overall it’s a bit less individual or private than other campgrounds in the park, but some people really dig that vibe. All in all, it’s a cheaper campground/campsite (for a solo traveler) at only $10/person/night. 

Yosemite Valley Shuttle

Yosemite Valley is a popular area of the park, so to facilitate traffic and parking concerns, there are two shuttle systems within the valley. They both run from 7am to 10pm, hitting the key points of interest, as noted below. Since the East Valley shuttle runs a smaller loop, buses tend to arrive a little more frequently. Even at that, the longest wait time is estimated to be about 22 minutes. 

Two Day Itinerary 

While I am no stranger to a fun solo adventure, anything more than two or three days starts to feel like a lot of time by my lonesome. That’s just me though! I felt that about 48 hours in Yosemite was the perfect amount of time to experience the park’s highlights without feeling rushed. There’s ample time to explore iconic spots like Yosemite Valley, Glacier Point, and Mariposa Grove— taking in scenic views via a couple moderate-length hikes, a relaxing bike ride, and breathtaking drives. 

It’s worth noting, everyone has different comfort levels, but ~8 miles is the most I like to hike by myself. If you are visiting Yosemite with friends or if you feel comfortable going on long hikes solo, Half Dome is one of the most renowned hikes in the park. The ~16 mile trek was a bit much for me to tackle alone, but it is an option! Especially if you’re open to staying a third day! 

DAY 1

To make the most of a full day, it does help to arrive in Yosemite the night before. That way, when you wake up, you’re ready to hit the ground running. I stayed at Camp 4, which was very centrally located, but there’s certainly other lodge and campground options in the valley to choose from. 

Vernal & Nevada Falls via the Mist Trail

The Vernal and Nevada Falls via the Mist Trail is an awesome hike because it combines breathtaking waterfalls, diverse terrain, and unforgettable views into one memorable hike. This trail takes you up close to the powerful cascades of Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall. A rather immersive experience, the waterfall mist cools off hikers as they ascend, hence the trail’s name. Climbing the granite stair-master-come-to-life alongside Vernal Fall is rather unforgettable, but so worth it as you’re rewarded with sweeping views of Yosemite Valley and the Merced River atop Nevada Falls. 

The hike is around 6.5 miles from the trailhead. A heads up/FYI, I ended up parking in Curry Village, which made it more of an 8ish mile hike– just so you’re mentally prepared. It’s certainly not an impossible endeavor, but the 2,208 ft of elevation is definitely not easy peasy. 

Yosemite Valley Loop Trail Bike Ride 

After a rewarding hike it’s nice to just relax for a minute. While I loaded up the cooler and brought a bunch of food with me, it was super comforting to know Yosemite has loads of food options. It’s so peaceful to just snag a spot to rest for a bit and enjoy lunch with an awesome view. 

Up next? A bike ride! The Yosemite Valley Loop is about 20 miles total, but even just doing part of it is a worthwhile adventure. The path weaves past Mirror Lake, El Capitan, the Meadow, Bridalveil Falls, and Yosemite Falls. It’s a bit of a choose your own adventure. Even better? There’s a free bike share program in Yosemite that allows use of bikes for 2 hours at a time. That was about all the physical activity I was keen on, after the morning hike, but The Yosemite Valley Lodge has bikes for rent as well if you’re looking to cruise around a bit longer ($30 Half Day/$40 Full Day). 

photo via yosemite.org
Set Up Camp

If you’re down to camp, Upper Pines, Lower Pines, North Pines, and Camp 4 are all located in Yosemite Valley. For anyone planning a last minute trip in Yosemite’s busy summer season, Camp 4 might be your best chance at snagging a campsite as these are released one week out. The other three campgrounds open up campsite reservations 5 months in advance. North Pines is actually so sought after, there’s a lottery system in place as part of the booking process there! A friend recommended Camp 4 to me, and I loved it! It’s set up a bit different than typical national park campsites, but it lends itself to a fun, community environment. 

Tunnel View

Finish the day out by taking in the sunset at Tunnel View. It’s hard not to feel like a photographer, with the sun painting El Capitan and Half Dome with rays of golden light. This spot is easily accessible, making it a popular choice for capturing postcard-worthy photos. Even if you don’t take a single picture, simply soaking in the magic of Yosemite’s dramatic landscapes is an unbeatable way to round out the day. The sweeping views from Tunnel View at sunset encapsulate both the grandeur and tranquility of Yosemite in an unforgettable scene.

DAY 2 
Yosemite Valley Visitor Center 

This is the largest visitor center in the park and the main hub for park information. It’s a must-stop for any park-goers looking to secure their park stamp! It also offers a buffet of resources like maps, exhibits, and interactive displays that cover the park’s history, geology, and wildlife. 

I sometimes like to snag a couple postcards at the park visitor center to send to my sisters, and there’s a very conveniently located post office right around the corner. In general, there’s a lot in the area by the visitor center, so go to the bathroom, grab a snack, and get ready to go, because day two takes us out and away from the valley. 

Glacier Point 

Home to one of the most spectacular, panoramic views in the park, Glacier Point features sweeping vistas of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, and the High Sierra peaks. Sitting at over 7,200 feet, this viewpoint provides a breathtaking perspective of the valley and its renown, granite landmarks.

Depending on how much time you have or perhaps how your legs are feeling, you have two options for taking in the view. You can either take a short walk to a viewpoint or hike the Sentinel Dome and Taft Point Trail. The latter is about 5 miles round trip and a little over 1,000 feet of elevation. It makes for a nice, brisk start to the day. This is what I opted for (and loved it), but either way you’re going to have a beautiful morning. 

Glacier Point is accessible by car for approximately late May through October or November, depending on conditions. 

Mariposa Grove 

Mariposa Grove is home to over 500 giant sequoias. These are one of the largest and oldest trees on Earth, with some towering over 200 feet tall and living for more than 2,000 years. These ancient giants, like the iconic Grizzly Giant, offer visitors a rare glimpse into the ancient natural world, making a walk through the grove a powerful, humbling experience. There’s a tranquility to the forest that is simply different from other regions of the park. 

Getting to Mariposa Grove is a bit of an adventure. After arriving at the Mariposa Grove Welcome Plaza, everyone must take a shuttle to the grove. Once you arrive at the grove, there’s a few different hiking options, but we recommend the 2 mile Grizzly Giant Loop Trail. How many times in life do you have the opportunity to see a 3,000 year old tree?? 

photo via nps.gov

Mariposa Grove Shuttle Hours

6/25 – 9/28 am to 7 pm (last bus leaves Mariposa Grove at 8 pm). Buses pick up every 10 to 15 minutes
9/3 – 11/28 am to 5:30 pm (last bus leaves Mariposa Grove at 6:30 pm). Buses pick up about every 15 minutes
11/3 – 11/30Weather permitting, 8 am to 3:30 pm (last bus leaves Mariposa Grove at 5:00 pm). Buses pick up about every 15 minutes
12/1 – 4/15 (at least)No shuttle service available

When the shuttle service is not running, the only way to reach Mariposa Grove is via a 2 mile walk (each way) along the Washburn Trail or the Mariposa Grove Road. 

Bunking Down

Where you choose to spend the night is rather dependent on where you are headed the next morning. I live in southern California so the Wawona campground was perfectly situated. That being said, if you are headed north, you might want to consider another campground or sleeping accommodation. If you decide to stay at the Wawona Campground, the Wawona Meadow is an awesome spot to stargaze! 

photo via nps.gov

As a solo traveler, I felt 48 hours in Yosemite was the perfect amount to sample the park and experience the sights for myself. Exploring by myself, I’m always happy to have just gone out there and adventured, instead of always waiting to go with someone else. That being said, I’m already excited to head back in the future— hopefully to hike half dome with some friends! Life is a balance— happy travels!

A literal life saving queen, Kayla Grace is an Army nurse in southern California. She can be found patching patients up in the emergency department but is equally likely to be spotted out hiking or backpacking. She is also quite the coffee connoisseur, and she will go out of her way to find a local coffee shop when she visits somewhere new!   

Categories
national parks travel

A Half Day In the Badlands: An Adventure Packed Guide

Badlands National Park in South Dakota is a unique and rugged landscape, known for its dramatic rock formations, deep canyons, and expansive prairies. The park is home to some of the most striking geological features in North America, with colorful layers of sedimentary rock that tell the story of millions of years of natural history. It’s also a haven for wildlife, including bison, bighorn sheep, and prairie dogs. Badlands is characterized by its otherworldly beauty and the sense of solitude that it offers. An adventurous half day in the Badlands is the pit-stop you can’t afford to miss!

If you’re driving through South Dakota, a half day in the Badlands National Park is ideal for experiencing the key highlights. The scenic Badlands Loop Road offers stunning viewpoints, allowing you to capture the essence of the park’s striking landscapes without feeling rushed. A few short hikes let you explore the rock formations up close. In just a few hours, you can see the park’s iconic formations, spot wildlife, and enjoy breathtaking views, making a half day the perfect introduction to the Badlands.

Fast Facts About Badlands National Park

Size:  244,000 acres

Visitors: 1,046,400 visitors annually (data from 2023)

Highest elevation: 3,340 feet at Red Shirt Table

Closest Airports: the Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP) is 70 miles away (~1.5 hour drive) or the Sioux Falls Regional Airport (FSD) is 240 miles (~4 hour drive)

National Park Initiation: November 10th, 1978 (established on the same day as Theodore Roosevelt, making them the 38th and 39th national parks)

Fun Fact: there are many native tribes associated with the park, but the Oglala Sioux Tribe’s Pine Ridge Indian Reservation is actually part of the southern region of the park

We recently moved from Wisconsin to Oregon. Instead of driving straight through, we decided to make a road trip out of it! We stopped at Custer State Park, Yellowstone, and the Tetons, but the views of South Dakota were the most unexpectedly breathtaking! Xavier kept us humble by staying incredibly stoic, despite all the excitement. 

A Good Night’s Rest

Perhaps the most important part of maximizing your time on a busy day? Getting a good night’s sleep! There are certainly accommodations nearby when you are visiting Badlands, but what’s more convenient than staying in the park?? In-park accommodations tend to either be very economical (camping) or a little on the spendy side (lodge living). Either way you have great options to choose from. It’s worth noting, both camping and the lodge will fill up quickly. If you know this is where you want to stay, book sooner rather than later!

Cedar Pass RV and Campground

The Cedar Pass RV and Campground is located near the Ben Reifel Visitor Center. It has restroom and shower facilities as well as pretty easy access to all amenities of Cedar Pass Lodge. There’s 96 camp sites, and practically all of them have scenic views of the badlands formations. 

Sage Creek Campground 

The Sage Creek Campground is a bit more of a backcountry experience. This campground is located on Sage Creek Rim Road, with 22 sites. It’s free and first-come first-serve; however, it’s only accessible via an unpaved road that may temporarily close after winter storms and spring rains. 

As an FYI, motor homes, pull behind trailers, and other recreational vehicles >18 ft are prohibited. Pit toilets and covered picnic tables are available, but not water. Potable water is available at the Ben Reifel Visitor Center.Generators are not permitted here. 

Cedar Pass Lodge 

The Cedar Pass Lodge is open for visitors to stay from April 19th– October 20th. You can bunk down in one-of-a-kind cabins with custom-made, regionally handcrafted lodgepole pine furniture. If you’re open to tasting the lodge’s take on native cuisine, the Cedar Pass Restaurant makes fresh fry bread daily for their Sioux Indian Tacos. Worth trying!! 

It’s worth noting, if you happen to visit outside these months, you might want to pack some snacks (or lunch) for yourself as it’s a bit of a drive to get to the nearest grocery store or restaurant. The last thing anyone needs is to find themselves hungry and far away from food!

photo via www.cedarpasslodge.com
◁ An Action Packed Half Day ▷

Get ready for a little bit over everything in the Badlands! While the weather can get quite warm in the summer months, even in August, it can still feel cool in the mornings. It’s worth it to get up early to ensure you’re not hiking in the heat of the day. With its location not too far off the interstate, a half day is the perfect amount of time to see a vibrant sunrise, a couple adventurous hikes, a handful of memorable overlooks… and hopefully a bison spotting or two. 

There are three entrances into the park. The Pinnacles and Northeast entrances are relatively easy to access off of I-90. If you find yourself making a cross-country road trip, like we did, this stop might not be much of a detour!

Big Badlands Overlook

The Big Badlands Overlook is right inside the Northeast entrance of the park. This makes it a perfect first place to pull over and pop out! Even if it wasn’t conveniently located, it would still be a  must-see spot in Badlands National Park because it offers sweeping, panoramic views of the park’s dramatic landscape. From this vantage point, you can take in the colorful layers of eroded rock formations, deep canyons, and rugged cliffs that truly define the Badlands. The overlook provides an excellent introduction to the park’s unique geology and is especially stunning at sunrise, with the soft morning light enhancing the vibrant colors of the terrain. It’s a very accessible viewpoint— perfect for capturing the park’s vast beauty.

The Door Trail

The Door Trail is a unique hike. It starts along a boardwalk and becomes a bit more of a choose-your-own-adventure. Hikers can explore the natural terrain for a more immersive adventure, following numbered signs that lead to the end-of-trail viewpoint. This hiking experience offers visitors an up-close experience of the rugged landscape, while not being too overwhelming as the trail is only 1 mile round trip. Its mix of ease and rewarding views makes it a great option for visitors of all ages and abilities.

The Notch Trail

If you only do one hike in the Badlands, it should be The Notch Trail! Even though it’s only 1.5 miles in total, it features a unique blend of experiences: a steep wooden ladder climb, narrow pathways, and dramatic views of the surrounding Badlands formations. The trail leads you through canyons and cliffs, culminating in a spectacular overlook of the White River Valley. The Notch Trail’s obstacles and breathtaking views make it a bit more adventurous than you might initially presume, for those seeking a bit of thrill in a relatively short distance.

Don’t be fooled, by the ladder— it’s a much steeper climb than it appears to be!

man with baby in carrier on his back amongst the spires, having a most enjoyable half day in the badlands
White River Valley Overlook

The White River Valley Overlook stands out from other viewpoints because it offers expansive views of the park’s eroded cliffs and spires with the vast White River Valley stretching out in the distance. Unlike some other overlooks that focus on the more compact rock formations, this viewpoint gives visitors a true sense of the Badlands’ wide-open spaces and the interplay between the rugged badlands terrain and the surrounding grasslands. The contrast between the jagged formations and the rolling valley below makes it a particularly unique and serene spot.

We especially loved it because there’s a worn path that ventures out into the ridge spires. As always, proceed with caution, but it’s fun to have a bit more immersive feel!

Panorama Point

Panorama Point is special because it offers visitors a sweeping, 360-degree view of the park’s vast, layered landscape. It lives up to its panoramic name by providing a comprehensive view of the surrounding badlands, prairie, and distant horizons. This makes it an ideal spot to fully appreciate the park’s impressive terrain.

Pinnacles Overlook

Pinnacles Overlook offers one of the most expansive views in the park. From a towering vantage point, the rugged cliffs, eroded spires, and deep canyons Badlands are known for are showcased. Pinnacles Overlook is also a prime spot for wildlife sightings, including bison, bighorn sheep, and prairie dogs. This makes it a must-see stop for nature lovers and photographers alike!

A half day in the Badlands National Park was an unexpected delight as we made our way across the country. The technicolor spires and canyons really are something to behold! If you are looking for the closest neighboring national park, you don’t have to look very far. Wind Cave National Park is only 2 hours away… as is Custer State Park! We hope you have a lovely adventure— happy travels!

written by Hannah 

Hannah traded the warm beaches of southwest FL for the outdoor adventure locale that is Bend, OR. Despite the distance, Hannah maintains her bossy big sister role with regular phone calls to keep up with all the little sister shenanigans. Notoriously chatty with her patients as well, Hannah stays busy as a physical therapist, but loves making time to explore newfound hikes. These days she has some extra pack weight; however, Xavier is notorious for being unimpressed by sweeping vistas.

Categories
national parks travel

One Perfect Day in the Tetons: Top Highlights & Must-See Spots

Grand Teton National Park, located in Wyoming, is a breathtaking destination known for its towering peaks, pristine alpine lakes, and abundant wildlife. Dominated by the jagged Teton Range, the park offers visitors a stunning mix of rugged mountain landscapes, lush forests, and serene valleys. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy endless activities, from hiking and boating to wildlife spotting and photography, with the iconic Jackson Hole valley as a backdrop. Whether you’re seeking adventure or simply want to soak in the park’s natural beauty, the Tetons and all the top highlights are a must-visit for anyone exploring the American West.

The staggering Teton peaks are nothing short of awe-inspiring, and a full day in Grand Teton National Park provides the perfect amount of time to experience its most iconic highlights. If you really enjoy hiking, you could easily spend a few days here; however, a single day affords you the time to capture the essence of the Tetons without feeling rushed.

sign at the entrance to grand teton national park -- home of some of the top sights in Wyoming
Fast Facts About GrAND TETON National Park

Size: 310,000 acres

Visitors: 3,417,106 visitors (data from 2023)

Closest Airport: Jackson Hole Airport — this is the only commercial airport located entirely within a National Park (in the US)

Became a National Park: in 1929 by an Act of Congress

Highest point: 13,770 feet at the peak of Grand Teton mountain

Fun Fact: the coldest temperature recorded in the park was a whopping -63°F! Brrrrrr!

We recently moved from Wisconsin to Oregon, and instead of driving straight through, we decided to make a road trip out of it! We stopped at the Badlands, Custer State Park, and Yellowstone, but the views of the Tetons might have just been the most astounding. Xavier kept us humble by sleeping through all of the breathtaking views. 

woman with baby in backpack carrier in front of Taggart lake -- one of the top highlights in tetons national park
‘Twas the Night Before

There are loads of accommodation options when you’re visiting the Tetons because Jackson is close enough that it makes for a convenient base camp. The only thing more convenient? Staying in the park! In-park accommodations tend to either be very economical (camping) or a little on the spendy side (lodge living). Either way you have lots of options to choose from— you can explore them all below. It’s worth noting, both camping and the lodges will fill up quickly. If you know this is where you want to stay, book sooner rather than later!

Camping
Lodges
THE DAY 

Get ready for an action packed day! The below order of stops is loosely organized around starting your day in Jackson; however, the stops can be re-organized however it makes sense for your diving plan! Get ready for a couple of gorgeous hikes, a handful of postcard-worthy viewpoints, and a dreamy relaxation spot to end the day!

Driving the loop as detailed below takes right around two hours total. This really flies by when you’re popping out for different stops along the way! You can see the stops from a bird’s eye view below.

Mormon Row

Mormon Row is a fantastic sunrise spot due to its iconic views of the Teton Range, with the historic barns of Mormon Row in the foreground. As the sun rises, it bathes the mountains in soft, golden light, creating a breathtaking contrast between the rugged peaks and the pastoral setting. The weathered barns are remnants of early Mormon settlers, and they add a unique and photogenic element to the scene. The calm morning air, wildlife activity, and serene atmosphere make sunrise at Mormon Row a magical experience. Just be aware, this is by no means an “underrated” sunrise spot…. you will be one of many photographers, so if you’re committed to the shot, you’ll want to arrive early! 

Jenny Lake

Nestled at the base of the Teton Range, the crystal-clear waters of Jenny Lake reflect the towering peaks, creating picture-perfect views. This is arguably the most popular spot in the park, so even if you aren’t up to catch the sunrise, you should plan to head here first! The lake itself is serene and beautiful, but it also serves as a gateway to some of the park’s most-hiked trails: Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point. Its accessibility and breathtaking surroundings make it a must-visit spot in the Tetons.

Spending a full day in the Tetons means you have time for a couple hikes. While you can hike around Jenny Lake to get to the Inspiration Point and Hidden Falls trailhead, the boat ride there is rather scenic. It’s also helpful for the economy of time on an action-packed day. Clocking in around 2 miles, this is a perfect way to start the day, without feeling too overwhelming. Hidden Falls is certainly worth stopping at, but the views from Inspiration Point are the crown jewel of this boating and hiking extravaganza. 

view of Jenny Lake at Inspiration Point
Hidden Falls

Boats depart every 10-15 minutes, running continuously throughout the day. They don’t take reservations, you simply pay upon arrival and hop on the boat. Pricing can be found here. 

baby’s first boat ride!

Be Bear Aware: If you already own bear spray don’t forget to pack it, and if you don’t own some, STRONGLY consider either renting or purchasing some. Bear sightings are not uncommon in Grand Teton National Park— especially when out hiking. The hikes included in this itinerary are well trafficked enough by other people, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry!

bear spray at the ready, even at Inspiration Point!
Taggart Lake

Now, the Inspiration Point trail is a really beautiful and amazing experience, but you end up with an awesome view of the lake… you don’t really have a view of the Tetons. For that reason, we feel you need to do at least one other hike to fully take in the Tetons. 

We LOVED the Taggart Lake hike! Since we’d already trekked a bit at Jenny Lake, the sub-500 feet of elevation and just-over-3.5 mile length was welcome. Plus the views of the lake were absolutely gorgeous— pictures don’t quite do it justice. This is the kind of spot where you wouldn’t be sad to pack a snack and a sparkling water, and just hang out for a bit, taking it in before you head back! We felt this was a perfect compliment to the Inspiration Point hike– different enough that you get two unique hiking experiences in the park. 

To save a little time/distance, you could treat this trail as an out and back instead of a loop… it might shave off half a mile or so. If you have a bit extra time, you can keep stepping to Bradley Lake and hit both! As an alternate option, the trailhead for Delta Lake isn’t far; however, this trail, while beautiful, might be a bit much (~8 miles + >2,ooo ft elevation) for a one-day itinerary.

beautiful teton views on the trail to Taggart Lake
Schwabacher Landing

Schwabacher Landing provides the most picturesque views of the Teton Range, reflected in the calm waters of the Snake River. This requires a short walk from the parking lot, making it fun to stop at different points along the path, to find your perfect shot. 

Snake River Overlook

This overlook provides panoramic views of the Snake River winding through the valley with the Teton Range as a majestic backdrop, perfect for scenic photos and iconic landscapes. The juxtaposition of the river against the mountains makes this a must-stop!  

Colter Bay Lakeshore 

Located along Jackson Lake, Colter Bay offers serene views of the Tetons. There’s no bad viewpoints in the Tetons, but I think this one just might be the best. There’s also recreational opportunities like boating and kayaking, and easy access to nature trails, making it as picturesque as it is family friendly. 

While the fun activities might not make the agenda with only one day in the park, it’s worth grabbing a beer at Leek’s Marina & Pizzeria. While the views here are truly incredible, the pizza….. was not. Perhaps we came on an off day, but alas, can’t say we recommend the pizza– the beer was good though! 

A bit farther south, the Trapper Grill sits on Lake Jackson. We didn’t stop here, but the menu seems solid, and the views look sublime! Even if you don’t grab lunch or dinner at the Trapper Grill, the Signal Mountain Lodge General Store is right next door, which makes for a convenient spot to grab some lakeshore relaxation snacks. 

String Lake & Leigh Lake

To round out the loop around the park, head back down to String Lake and Leigh Lake. This area is a bit of an underrated gem, and it’s the perfect place to wind down. This is by no means a secret spot, but we were so enchanted with how cozy this area was. There are loads of little alcove ‘nooks’ along the lake, with a bench and small sandy beach area. There’s also a scenic walking path between String Lake and Leigh Lake if you are looking for one final stroll to end the day. 

taking a little dip— beware the water is COLD!
scenic path/trail between String Lank and Leigh Lake

Grand Teton National Park is amazing because you can appreciate the staggering beauty of the park by just driving through it. The more you have time to explore the more immersive the experience becomes, but you truly can spend a full day in the park and leave feeling satisfied with the sights, sounds, and experiences. This is a park we are already excited to come back to!

While we just have the one little peanut, our friends over at Plan More Adventures tackled a Yellowstone and Tetons trip with three kiddos. You can check it out here. We hope you have a lovely adventure— happy travels!

written by Hannah 

Hannah traded the warm beaches of southwest FL for the outdoor adventure locale that is Bend, OR. Despite the distance, Hannah maintains her bossy big sister role with regular phone calls to keep up with all the little sister shenanigans. Notoriously chatty with her patients as well, Hannah stays busy as a physical therapist, but loves making time to explore newfound hikes. These days she has some extra pack weight; however, Xavier is notorious for being unimpressed by sweeping vistas.

Categories
national parks

Maximize Your Time: A One Day Itinerary for Yellowstone

Yellowstone National Park is a cornucopia of sights and experiences. It was the first national park– not just in the United States but in the world! From the eternally iconic Old Faithful Geyser to the dozens of dazzling hot springs in the park to the breathtaking Grand Canyon of Yellowstone and all the little wonders in between, Yellowstone is memorable! One day certainly goes fast, but we can help you maximize your time!

In a park of this magnitude, you could easily spend a week hiking and leisurely exploring the park. However, if you’re planning a multi-park road trip or perhaps trekking across the country, sometimes there’s only time for the essentials. If you’re hoping to hit the highlights, we have a jam-packed one day itinerary for the adventurer looking to do the most. For anyone looking to spend two days in the park, we have a bit more in depth itinerary here.

Fast Facts About Yellowstone National Park

Size: 2,221,766 acres

Visitors: 4,501,382 visitors (data from 2023)

Closest Airport: the Jackson Hole airport (JAC) is ~50 miles from the south entrance of the park and the Bozeman airport (BZN) is ~90 miles from the north entrance

Became a National Park: March 1st, 1872 when President Ulysses S. Grant signed the Yellowstone National Park Protection Act (first national park in the United States AND in the world)

Highest point: 11,358 feet at Eagle Peak

Fun Fact: Yellowstone is larger than Rhode Island and Delaware combined! Even more fun— more than half the world’s geysers exist in Yellowstone.

road trippin’

We recently spent a few days in Yellowstone as part of a cross country road trip, and we found Yellowstone to be unique for a few different reasons. It truly is a diverse park. Yellowstone has hot springs, geysers, mountains, an incredible canyon, waterfalls, and amazing opportunities for wildlife encounters. The breadth of experiences here is special!

Yellowstone is also one of the most tourist-friendly national parks we’ve been to. What do we mean by that? There’s good to excellent accessibility at most of the viewpoints, lots of bathrooms, lodge accommodations, campgrounds, restaurants, gas stations throughout the park etc. It feels like a park that’s equipped for large volumes of visitors, without going toooo far to feel like a theme park-esque experience. 

making an entrance

There are five entrances into Yellowstone: East, Northeast, North, West, and South. Realistically, the entrance you plan to arrive through will dictate the order that you hit everything. As such, we’ve detailed the top must-do spots and included a map of where exactly everything is, to help you see the day from a bird’s eye view. 

Grand Loop Road effectively makes a circle through the park, so this road serves as the backbone of our highlight reel. It also simplifies navigation in the park. Service in the park tends to be pretty poor, so the straightforward driving route and copious signage helps ensure everyone gets where they intend to. 

Rest Up

How to make the most of a full day? Get a good night’s sleep! And when you only have one day in Yellowstone, it’s important to make the most of your time! If you are able to arrive in the park the night before, it can help with the flow of your day. There are accommodations near the various entrances to the park, but most entrances to the park (i.e. all but the north entrance) are still about an hour away from the big sights. 

If you want to stay in the park, there are two general options: camping or lodge life. The park lodges are unique to each region of the park they’re in, which gives each place historic character. You can check out all nine options here. The lodge and cabin stays in the park tend to run a little on the expensive side, but park of what you’re paying for is the location of being steps away from something amazing!!

It’s a little strange but four of the campground’s sites are available through recreation.gov (linked here). The other five are booked through the lodge reservation webpage (linked here). The booking itself is relatively straightforward— just a little peculiar to have it split up!

photo taken by our friend Zachary Splinter (IG: master_splint3r)
THE KEY STOPS:

Between the multiple entrances to the park and the many welcome stations at each entrance, the arrival process into the park is as streamlined as it gets; however, it’s always a good idea to get into the park sooner rather than later (or just stay in the park overnight :)). Things start to get more crowded around 10am, so an earlier start helps ensure you can enjoy a bit more nature to yourself. 

Grand Canyon of Yellowstone

The Grand Canyon of Yellowstone stretches for about 24 miles, and this amazing feature is worth taking in from a few different vantage points. There’s a bunch of awesome viewpoints to take in the canyon from different vantage points. We found Yellowstone to be a more accessible park, so even if you can’t or don’t want to hike, you can still take in the awesome vistas, just steps from your car. 

Artist Point

If you’re in the park early, this is a nice overlook to wander over to. You are able to see both the canyon as well as the waterfall from afar– it’s a nice spot to catch the sunrise! With this as your first stop, it’s an amazing way to start the day.

view of Yellowstone canyon at Artist Point
view of the falls at Artist Point
North Rim Hike… or Drive. 

The North Rim Overlooks are connected by road as well as hiking trail, making them relatively easy to access to a variety of adventurers. While there are overlooks up by the parking lot, some of the cooler views are accompanied by a bit of sweat equity. For example, the Brink of Lower Falls trail drops 600 feet over a short 0.4-mile stretch of switchbacks to the Lower Falls viewpoint. This was probably our favorite spot along the North Rim but they are all worth hitting!

view of Yellowstone Canyon from Lower Falls (falls directly to the right)

Lookout Point, Grand View, and Inspiration Point all afford slightly different vantage points. Similar to Lower Falls, Lookout Point (view pictured below) also has a combination of stairs and graded descent that are worth the huffin’ and puffin’. Whether you’re driving or hiking, you won’t regret going to at each stop!

view of the falls from Lookout Point

If you look closely or zoom in on the above picture, just to the right of the falls, you will see a viewing platform with a handful of people standing on. This is the Lower Falls viewpoint!

steps down to lower viewpoint at Lookout Point

The Yellowstone River and Canyon are truly breathtaking and it’s so grounding to take in the technicolor wonder. What makes this canyon even more interesting is its constant evolution. If you look out across the canyon walls, you’ll notice some steamy, active hydrothermal features. The Grand Canyon of Yellowstone was our favorite area of the park! 

view from Inspiration Point
Hayden Valley

Driving south from the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, along Grand Loop Road, will take you through Hayden Valley. This approximately 7 mile stretch of landscape is gorgeous to drive through. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife because this area is one of the best spots in the park to spot some of the large mammals the park is home to. The grizzly and black bears are spotted more frequently in the spring and early summer days. They tend to be found at higher elevations as the summer goes on, but you never know where you might see one. Bison are more likely to be seen at any time throughout the summer, with coyotes commonly spotted as well!

There’s so many different areas to pull out if you *think* you might see something off in the distance…. or if you want to simply stare at the bison grazing nearby. There’s no singular recommended destination or overlook in Hayden Valley. It’s simply a beautiful drive with a high probability of animal sightings. This is first on the list because early risers may be even more likely to spot animals if you’re driving through at dawn (or dusk). 

If you see a bunch of cars pulled over, there’s a good chance someone has spotted something exciting! If you see a cluster of cars, it doesn’t hurt to pull over as well! You never know what you might see! 

photo via nps.gov
Old Faithful 

Timing up your Old Faithful experience takes a bit of planning. This iconic geyser erupts every 94 or 68 minutes… plus or minus ten minutes. So while the eruptions are routine, they’re just far apart enough that you might find yourself waiting a while if you arrive right after the previous eruption. The Old Faithful Visitor Center has a sign out that estimates when to expect Old Faithful’s next performance. This is helpful but having something online is just a bit more useful as you try and time up your morning.

We used this NPS website and this informative site to help give us an idea of when to show up. It’s better to be 15 min early than 2 minutes late! 

The Old Faithful area of the park will get busy… there’s no getting around that, but if you get to the park relatively early, you do have time to do the Grand Prismatic Overlook hike first. We recommend this because the ambient temperature earlier in the day is still rather chilly– even in the summer months. Why is this relevant? Well, Old Faithful is erupting hot hot hot water, so if it’s cold outside, the water plume becomes pretty shrouded in steam. Still neat to see but perhaps not the expected view. 

old faithful erupting on a cool morning with more steam than water visible— an iconic sight at yellowstone national park
Upper Geyser Basin hike 

The Upper Geyser Basin hike begins just steps away from Old Faithful and showcases dozens of hot springs and geysers (AllTrails link here). This boardwalk trail stretches about 3.5 miles total. While it’s totally possible to just walk part of the trail and then head back, in our opinion, some of the more impressive features are further along the trail. Morning Glory is the final hot spring on the path, and we were glad we walked all the way to the end to check it out! 

Yellowstone is home to so many hot springs and geysers, you’re be hard-pressed to hit them all, even with a few days in the park. While this walk doesn’t highlight all of them, you can leave knowing you were able to see some unique geological wonders.

hot springs along the Upper Geyser Basin boardwalk
Morning Glory hot spring
Grand Prismatic Hot Spring Overlook Trail 

There’s so many hot springs in Yellowstone, but none is more memorable (or larger) than the Grand Prismatic. You can certainly check out the overlook at ‘ground level’, but in my opinion, the bird’s eye view is superior. There’s a bit of sweat equity involved, but the 1.5 miles round trip is very manageable (AllTrails link here)! 

When you’re nearing the hot spring, you want to park at the Fairy Falls trailhead. If you’re driving around Grand Loop road clockwise, this means you’ll take the turnoff for the Fairy Falls trail, which is actually just before the Grand Prismatic overlook parking lot. 

This is a relatively small viewing area and it does get rather popular, so come with patience in your heart. When you’re in Yellowstone— especially in the summer— it seems like everyone’s advice is to get to ‘XYZ’ early. Generally speaking, this is great advice, but when you’re only in the park for one day, you can’t hit everything early!

In our opinion, the Grand Prismatic is a spot that’s better to hit later. The colors of the hot spring “pop” and become more vibrant when the sky is overhead, so arriving a little later in the day should afford you awesome, vibrant views. It’s never fun to do a hike in the hottest part of the day, BUT at least it’s a relatively short hike!

Mammoth Hot Springs (optional)

Just inside the North entrance of the park, you’ll find Mammoth Hot Springs.Yellowstone is home to many different hot springs– what makes these springs unique are the travertine terraces that have formed as a result of the hot springs. The thermal water rises through limestone, carrying dissolved limestone to the surface, creating the memorable terrace formation these hot springs are known for. 

To take in the multi-level wonder, there’s a boardwalk path that weaves in and through the hot spring. If you hit every nook and cranny, it’s about 2.5 miles long. Now, if you have time and want to stretch your legs, it’s a nice board walk saunter with a healthy amount of stairs. If you’re rushing along, you can more or less get the gist of it by poking around for 15 minutes or so.  

If you’re planning on either arriving or departing the park via the North entrance, stopping here is a no-brainer. The terraces are rather unique and certainly worth a stop if it’s along the way. That being said, and this might be an unpopular opinion, but if you’re coming and going through the East, South, or West entrances, tacking on this stop miiiight not be worth the drive time. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but if we were crunched for time AND knowing this is the only big stop in the north part of the park, we’re not sure the “awe-factor” here is worth allllllll the extra driving it would take to see this single geological wonder.

One day in Yellowstone flies by! Maximizing your time can feel tricky… trying to see as much as you can but not be so rushed you hardly enjoy it. Our plan should thread that needle perfectly. We hope you have an amazing time exploring all the breathtaking beauty this historic national park has to offer. Happy travels!

written by Hannah 

Hannah traded the warm beaches of southwest FL for the outdoor adventure locale that is Bend, OR. Despite the distance, Hannah maintains her bossy big sister role with regular phone calls to keep up with all the little sister shenanigans. Notoriously chatty with her patients as well, Hannah stays busy as a physical therapist, but loves making time to explore newfound hikes. These days she has some extra pack weight; however, Xavier is notorious for being unimpressed by sweeping vistas.

Categories
national parks

Yellowstone’s Iconic Sights & Hidden Gems: The Ultimate 2-Day Itinerary

Yellowstone National Park is a cornucopia of sights and experiences… a crown jewel in the national park system, sitting atop a super volcano. It was the first national park– not just in the United States but in the world! Whether you’re looking forward to the iconic sights or the quiet moments of peaceful nature, Yellowstone won’t disappoint. From the famous Old Faithful Geyser to the dozens of dazzling hot springs in the park to the breathtaking Grand Canyon of Yellowstone and all the little wonders in between, Yellowstone is memorable!

In a park of this magnitude, you could easily spend a week hiking and leisurely exploring. However, if you’re planning a multi-park road trip or perhaps trekking across the country, sometimes there’s only time for the essentials. If you’re hoping to hit all regions of the park, we recommend at least two days in the park. Yellowstone is large, so you will spend a couple hours just driving around. And that’s before you even get out to see anything! 

If you’re zooming through and are looking for a one-day packed-to-the-gills itinerary, you can find that here.

Fast Facts About Yellowstone National Park

Size: 2,221,766 acres

Visitors: 4,501,382 visitors (data from 2023)

Closest Airport: the Jackson Hole airport (JAC) is ~50 miles from the south entrance of the park and the Bozeman airport (BZN) is ~90 miles from the north entrance

Became a National Park: March 1st, 1872 when President Ulysses S. Grant signed the Yellowstone National Park Protection Act (first national park in the United States AND in the world)

Highest point: 11,358 feet at Eagle Peak

Fun Fact: Yellowstone is larger than Rhode Island and Delaware combined! Even more fun— more than half the world’s geysers exist in Yellowstone.

road trippin’

We recently spent a few days in Yellowstone as part of a cross country road trip. This was our first big hiking trip with our son, so we were stoked to make the most of it. We’ve been told it gets more challenging as kiddos can run away, but man oh man… it was notably more time consuming to get out the door with an 8 month old in tow vs. just rolling out of bed ourselves. Everything we did, we did with him along for the ride, so whether you’re a solo traveler or parent to a young, wild soul, this itinerary should flow nicely for you! 

There are five entrances into Yellowstone: East, Northeast, North, West, and South. This itinerary is centered around an arrival through the east entrance; however, the days’ activities circumduct the park, so you can hop into the “circle” from any entrance. Yellowstone is immense, so this is by no means an all inclusive list BUT this is a great snapshot of Yellowstone’s must-see highlights. 

Grand Loop Road effectively makes a circle through the park, so this road serves as the backbone of our highlight reel. It also simplifies navigation in the park. Service in the park tends to be pretty poor, so the straightforward driving route and copious signage helps ensure everyone gets where they intend to. 

DAY ONE 

The day starts arriving through the East entrance of the park. Between the multiple entrances to the park and the many welcome stations at each entrance, the arrival process into the park is as streamlined as it gets; however, it’s always a good idea to get into the park earlier than later. Things start to get more crowded around 10am, so an earlier start helps ensure you can enjoy a bit more nature to yourself. 

Hayden Valley

Driving north along Grand Loop Road will take you through Hayden Valley. This approximately 7 mile stretch of landscape is gorgeous to drive through. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife because this area is one of the best spots in the park to spot some of the large mammals the park is home to. The grizzly and black bears are spotted more frequently in the spring and early summer days. They tend to be found at higher elevations as the summer goes on, but you never know where you might see one. Bison are more likely to be seen at any time throughout the summer, with coyotes commonly spotted as well!

There’s so many different areas to pull out if you *think* you might see something off in the distance…. or if you want to simply stare at the bison grazing nearby. There’s no singular recommended destination or overlook in Hayden Valley. It’s simply a beautiful drive with a high probability of animal sightings. This is first on the list because early risers may be even more likely to spot animals if you’re driving through at dawn (or dusk). 

If you see a bunch of cars pulled over, there’s a good chance someone has spotted something exciting! If you see a cluster of cars, it doesn’t hurt to pull over as well! You never know what you might see! 

photo via nps.gov
Grand Canyon of Yellowstone

The Grand Canyon of Yellowstone stretches for about 24 miles, and this amazing feature is worth taking in from a few different vantage points. There’s a bunch of awesome viewpoints to take in the canyon from different vantage points. We found Yellowstone to be a more accessible park, so even if you can’t or don’t want to hike, you can still take in the awesome vistas, just steps from your car. 

Artist Point

If you’re in the park early, this is a nice overlook to wander over to. You are able to see both the canyon as well as the waterfall from afar– it’s a nice spot to catch the sunrise! Just an amazing way to start the day.

view of Yellowstone canyon at Artist Point
view of the falls at Artist Point
North Rim Hike… or Drive. 

The North Rim Overlooks are connected by road as well as hiking trail, making them relatively easy to access to a variety of adventurers. While there are overlooks up by the parking lot, some of the cooler views are accompanied by a bit of sweat equity. For example, the Brink of Lower Falls trail drops 600 feet over a short 0.4-mile stretch of switchbacks to the Lower Falls viewpoint. This was probably our favorite spot along the North Rim but they are all worth hitting!

view of Yellowstone Canyon from Lower Falls (falls directly to the right)

Lookout Point, Grand View, and Inspiration Point all afford slightly different vantage points. Similar to Lower Falls, Lookout Point (view pictured below) also has a combination of stairs and graded descent that are worth the huffin’ and puffin’. Whether you’re driving or hiking, you won’t regret going to at each stop!

view of the falls from Lookout Point

If you look closely or zoom in on the above picture, just to the right of the falls, you will see a viewing platform with a handful of people standing on. This is the Lower Falls viewpoint!

steps down to lower viewpoint at Lookout Point

The Yellowstone River and Canyon are truly breathtaking and it’s so grounding to take in the technicolor wonder. What makes this canyon even more interesting is its constant evolution. If you look out across the canyon walls, you’ll notice some steamy, active hydrothermal features. The Grand Canyon of Yellowstone was our favorite area of the park! 

view from Inspiration Point
Canyon Village

Yellowstone is unique for many reasons, the least of which being that it’s one of the most “city-ized” national parks we’ve been to. Now, millions of acres of the park remain largely unavailable and untouched by visiting tourists (as it should), so it’s less commercial and more self-sufficient. For example there’s multiple post offices throughout the park. There’s not just gas stations but small auto body shops as well. The park is home to multiple lodges, restaurants, and visitor centers too. And more bathrooms than I’ve seen in any other national park!! 

Canyon Village is one of the small hubs or “cities” in the park. North Rim Drive ends right near this area, so it’s a perfect stop to grab some lunch…. or to send off a postcard! 

photo via nps.gov
Lamar Valley (optional) 

As you follow Grand Loop Road north, you will find yourself heading to the northeast corner of the park. As you approach Theodore Lodge, there will be an opportunity to turn right onto Northeast Entrance Road. While it’s not quite time to leave the park yet, Lamar River and the Lamar Valley are down this corridor. 

Similar to Hayden Valley, Lamar Valley is a gorgeous expanse of scenery and known wildlife spotting locale. If you’re hoping to spot a wolf, this is actually the best place in the park to have a chance; however, dawn and dusk tend to be the best times to see them. While we didn’t see any wolves, we did see a whoooole bunch of bison! 

Northeast Entrance Road stretches about 33 miles and takes about an hour to drive, so driving all the way out and back takes around 2 hours. Depending on how early you start your day, you might have time for this, but Lamar Valley is in the inner half of the drive, so going the full length of the road isn’t exactly necessary– especially during a two day trip! 

Mammoth Hot Springs 

Just inside the North entrance of the park, you’ll find Mammoth Hot Springs. Yellowstone is home to many different hot springs– what makes these springs unique are the travertine terraces that have formed as a result of the hot springs. The thermal water rises through limestone, carrying dissolved limestone to the surface, creating the memorable terrace formation these hot springs are known for. 

To take in the multi-level wonder, there’s a boardwalk path that weaves in and through the hot spring. If you hit every nook and cranny, it’s about 2.5 miles long. After a stretch of drive time in the car, it feels good to stretch the legs out! 

Catch Some Zzzzzs

There are so many options for where you may choose to rest your weary bones for the night. Day two is primarily focused on exploring the southern half of the park, so getting lodging farther south just makes it easier to hit the ground running in the morning. Accommodations in Yellowstone have a huge range. You can have convenience and breathtaking views with a budget-friendly price tag by camping in the park. There’s luxe lodge stays that will be well appointed and opportunely located. There’s also West Yellowstone just minutes outside the park.

Camping Out

If you own a tent, sleeping bag, and sleeping pad, this is a no brainer!! All three campgrounds have awesome, scenic views in the park AND avoid the wasted time that comes with driving out of and back into the park. It makes it easier to hit the ground running in the morning! The only downside of camping is that even in the summer months it can get chilly in Yellowstone…. like down into the 30s, so be sure to bring a warm sleeping bag! We decided this might be just a little too chilly for our 8 month old, but we hope to take him camping next time we roll through! 

photo taken by our friend Zachary Splinter (IG: master_splint3r)
Mid-Range in West Yellowstone

West Yellowstone really is minutes, if not seconds away, from the West entrance to the park. We were booking accommodations last minute and snagged a room at the Best Western Western Inn (dog friendly!). Not only was the room great, but we were walking distance to the Yellowstone Beer Company as well as Firehole BBQ. Tasty beers and phenomenal barbecue!! If you have even a remote interest in smoked meat, this is a fantastic meal– especially after a full day adventuring around in the park.  

Luxe Lodge Life

The biggest aspect of ‘luxury’ associated with the on-property lodging is the convenience of being in the park. Despite West Yellowstone being “just outside the park”, it’s still about an hour long drive from West Yellowstone to Old Faithful. The cost of the room is tied up in location location location! and character! Can you imagine waking up and watching Old Faithful erupt from the comfort of your room?? The Old Faithful Inn is notoriously popular as the building was finished in 1904, constructed with local logs and stone– making it one of the largest log-style structures in the world! 

photo via yellowstonenationalparklodges.com

DAY TWO 

Grand Prismatic Hot Spring Overlook Trail 

There’s so many hot springs in Yellowstone, but none is more memorable (or larger) than the Grand Prismatic. You can certainly check out the overlook at ‘ground level’, but in my opinion, the bird’s eye view is superior. There’s a bit of sweat equity involved, but the 1.5 miles round trip is very manageable (AllTrails link here)! 

When you’re nearing the hot spring, you want to park at the Fairy Falls trailhead. If you’re driving around Grand Loop road counterclockwise, this means you’ll actually drive past the signs for Grand Prismatic, following signs to the Fairy Falls. 

Beware, even with the hike, this is a relatively small viewing area and it does get rather popular, so come with patience in your heart. While it’s wise to get a relatively early start to your day, this isn’t necessarily a recommended sunrise hike. The colors of the hot spring “pop” and become more vibrant when the sky is overhead, so arriving by 8:30-9:30am should afford you awesome views, while still allowing you to arrive at old faithful by/before 10am. 

Old Faithful 

Timing up your Old Faithful experience takes a bit of planning. This iconic geyser erupts every 94 or 68 minutes… plus or minus ten minutes. So while the eruptions are routine, they’re just far apart enough that you might find yourself waiting a while if you arrive right after the previous eruption. The Old Faithful Visitor Center has a sign out that estimates when to expect Old Faithful’s next performance. This is helpful but having something online is just a bit more useful as you try and time up your morning.

We used this NPS website and this informative site to help give us an idea of when to show up. It’s better to be 15 min early than 2 minutes late! 

The Old Faithful area of the park will get busy… there’s no getting around that, but if you get to the park relatively early, you do have time to do the Grand Prismatic Overlook hike first. We recommend this because the ambient temperature earlier in the day is still rather chilly– even in the summer months. Why is this relevant? Well, Old Faithful is erupting hot hot hot water, so if it’s cold outside, the water plume becomes pretty shrouded in steam. Still neat to see but perhaps not the expected view. 

old faithful erupting on a cool morning with more steam than water visible— an iconic sight at yellowstone national park
Upper Geyser Basin hike 

The Upper Geyser Basin hike begins just steps away from Old Faithful and showcases dozens of hot springs and geysers (AllTrails link here). This boardwalk trail stretches about 3.5 miles total. While it’s totally possible to just walk part of the trail and then head back, in our opinion, some of the more impressive features are further along the trail. Morning Glory is the final hot spring on the path, and we were glad we walked all the way to the end to check it out! 

hot springs along the Upper Geyser Basin boardwalk
Morning Glory hot spring
West Thumb 

West Thumb is essentially a large inlet of Yellowstone Lake. There’s a fun one mile loop along the West Thumb Geyser Basin Trail that takes you past the Thumb paint pots as well as a handful of geysers and hot springs, and the West Thumb shoreline (AllTrails link here)! 

photo via nps.gov
Lake Yellowstone

Yellowstone Lake is the largest freshwater lake above 7,000 ft elevation in the United States, making this a relaxing spot to end the day. If the weather is nice, the park offers one-hour guided tours aboard Lake Queen II, for the Yellowstone Lake Scenic Cruise. This is a paid tour, but ticket prices are very reasonable. During high season, tours run into the late afternoon and early evening hours, so this makes for a lovely way to wind down. When we visited, an evening shower rolled through, so we just went and grabbed dinner at the Lake Lodge Cabin. They have tables right up against the window, giving you an amazing view out to the lake. 

At this point in your adventuring, you’ve likely encountered an elk or two, but if you haven’t, they tend to wander around in the area of the park into the evening. We stayed in the Lake Yellowstone Cabins and were so delighted with all the elk we saw wandering around as we were arriving. Always practice mindful safety around wild animals! We ended up rather close, just because they caught us by surprise! 

Sleep It Off 

Where you rest for the night largely depends on where you’re heading in the morning. If you plan to leave the way you came (out the East entrance), bunking down near Yellowstone Lake, or even heading for Cody likely makes the most sense. If you plan to drive south to explore Grand Teton National Park next, staying in West Thumb might be a better stop. 

Camping Out

From tent campers to RV campers and all the rooftop tents and fifth-wheelers in between, it’s hard to beat the bang for your buck you get with camping! As long as you have the right gear, this is an awesome way to experience the park… we’re already excited to come back and camp with our littlest camping buddy one day! 

Luxe Lodge Life

We stayed at one of the Lake Yellowstone cabins and loved it! Elk were wandering past our cabin as we arrived and it was so charming! Similar to the Mammoth and Old Faithful Lodge stays, perhaps a little expensive, but we were so thrilled with the location. 

Map It Out

The map can look a little chaotic, just because Yellowstone is so big! Having a bird’s eye view of the park can make it a little easier to see the vision of the itinerary. This map is awesome because Grand Loop Road pops in red and almost all the stops noted above are highlighted below on the map.

Two days in Yellowstone fly by! Planning an action-packed itinerary is tricky— trying to make the most of your days… but not being so busy and rushed you hardly enjoy it. Our plan should thread that needle perfectly! We hope you have an amazing time exploring all the iconic sights and hidden gems of this historic national park. Happy travels!

written by Hannah 

Hannah traded the warm beaches of southwest FL for the outdoor adventure locale that is Bend, OR. Despite the distance, Hannah maintains her bossy big sister role with regular phone calls to keep up with all the little sister shenanigans. Notoriously chatty with her patients as well, Hannah stays busy as a physical therapist, but loves making time to explore newfound hikes. These days she has some extra pack weight; however, Xavier is notorious for being unimpressed by sweeping vistas.

Categories
national parks tropical destinations

A Memorable One Night Backpacking Trip to Santa Cruz Island 

Channel Islands National Park encompasses a small five-island archipelago and the expanse of ocean that surrounds them, off the coast of southern California. This rugged yet enchanting landscape is home to one-of-a-kind plants and animals– found nowhere else on the planet. The rustic charm and cultural identity of the Channel Islands make this national park unique in the midst of California’s impressive array of national parks. Located approximately 12 miles off the coast, Santa Cruz is the easiest of the islands to reach. Not only that, it tends to have the most amenable weather as well as the most opportunity for recreational exploration… all the best ingredients for memorable backpacking escapades.

What makes Santa Cruz Island extra special? The remote and wild island may not have any restaurants or concessions, but it boasts quite the seascape. The Pacific ocean is an alluring backdrop to the unforgettable island coastline— the perfect amalgamation of tranquility and pristine panoramas that make for the ideal backpacking adventure. In addition to the natural beauty, Santa Cruz is historically and ecologically meaningful as well. Santa Cruz was once home to the Chumash Indians and remains the only home of the island scrub-jay-only as well as some small island foxes. We were lucky enough to see both while we were there– as well as lots of yarrow, fennel, and California sage bush! 

Fast Facts About channel islands National Park

Size: 249,561 acres

Visitors: 328,746 visitors (data from 2023)

Distance from LA: 1-1.5 hour drive + a ferry ride

Became a National Park: March 5th, 1980

Highest point: Diablo Peak at 2,450 ft (on Santa Cruz Island)

Fun Fact: in 2023 there were 23,881 visitors that camped in the backcountry

While I’ve done my fair share of camping before, this was my first non-Army backpacking trip for pleasure. Having a tent, sleeping pad, and jetboil is fancy digs!! The rolling 1,500ft total climb certainly wasn’t easy peasy but the untouched, remote wilderness is hard to beat and so very worth the sweat equity. 

Ferry Ferry, Quite Contrary 

The rather remote nature of the park means a little extra time and coordination is necessary to plan your arrival. The ferry to Santa Cruz Island is operated by Island Packers. The ferry departs from Ventura Harbor and takes a little over an hour to reach Scorpion Cove. While this is the more popular of the two stops, you’ll want to sit tight a little longer. The ferry waits ~20 minutes to allow everyone time to disembark before cruising to its second destination. About 30 minutes later, you’ll find yourself at Prisoner’s Harbor. Overall you can expect the ferry time to be about 2 hours. 

important notes: 
  1. you MUST bring all the water you anticipate needing with you onto the ferry because there is no water available at Prisoner’s Harbor and there’s definitely not a tap at the back country campground. 
  2. On the ferry, fuel and water cannot stay in your pack → the packs get stacked, so you don’t want the water bursting. Your water should be either in bladders (place in the back of the boat you can store it) or you can also bring gallons and distribute it when you arrive on the island. 
  3. When you check in for your ferry, they give you physical tickets to get on the ferry both ways aka do not lose your return ticket!!!
  4. Double check your return time!! Some of them are only 30 min off from one another, but you have to get on the right time (aka actually aim for 30 min early) or else there won’t be enough room for everyone. You don’t want to get left behind! 
These Boots Were Made for Walking 

Once everyone’s off the ferry, it’s time to get those packs all ready to go! If you plan to bring extra water (to consume after you’ve returned but before you depart on the ferry again) there are fox boxes to store your water in to ensure it’s safe from the wildlife. Just for planning and packing purposes, one gallon of water per person per day is recommended. 

Del Norte is a backcountry campground a little over 3 miles from the Harbor. Getting there requires navigating a bit of a rolling hill landscape as you’ll find yourself climbing, descending, and climbing again, for a total elevation gain of around 1,000’. There’s only 4 campsites, and even in April, it was warm enough that we were glad to have the two campsites in the shade! Reservations are required in advance… it’s a bit too long of a trek to be a first come first serve campsite! Reservations are easiest to make online (link here), but you can also call to reserve a campsite (877) 444-6777. 

Campfires are prohibited, but jetboils are very much allowed, so it’s still very possible to enjoy a nice hot dinner. The picnic tables make for a breezy spot to relax and play cards together. It’s a lovely spot to spend the evening together, and perfect for stargazing into the night.

Prisoner’s Harbor and Del Norte exude peace and make it easy to imagine what a simple life would have been like hundreds of years ago. The simplicity can be quite the reprieve from the every-day hustle and bustle, but it also means you’ll need to bring EVERYTHING you need with you. This is by no means an inclusive packing list, but here’s a handful of things you’ll be glad to have with you regardless of the time of year!

Packing Up and Packing Out

When morning rolls around, it’s time for a spot of breakfast and then packing everything back up! The trail to the Del Norte campground is an out and back, so you shouldn’t feel too worried about getting lost on the way back— it should all be rather familiar to you. 

If you’re wanting to take the path less traveled, there is an option to come back a different way, if you are so inclined (we highlighted this below). Just in general downloading the trail on AllTrails was nice to have, just as a safeguard against any accidental wandering off the intended path. 

Keep on Keepin’ On

Once you make it back to Prisoner’s Harbor, take a little break and enjoy a snack because you’ve got more hiking on the itinerary! The ferry should be back by 11am at the latest, which is worth noting because there’s a naturalist aboard that will lead a guided hike (pro-tip: sign the waiver right after you buy your ferry ticket so you don’t have to worry about this later)!

The hike is along the Pelican Bay trail, and is less of a hike to a specific destination and more of a let’s-enjoy-the-journey hike. This can be a perfect opportunity to spot wildlife! We saw a small Island fox while we were on this hike– this fox only exists on Santa Cruz Island!! The Island Scrub Jay is also found only on Santa Cruz and is more commonly seen around Prisoner’s Harbor! 

Shippin’ Out

The ferry typically leaves to head back a little after 3pm, so even if you explore along the Pelican Bay trail, you’ll find yourself with a little extra time. We just went down and relaxed in and by the water, but if you bring a snorkel mask, there’s a kelp forest along the shoreline worth exploring. While sea kayaking is a popular activity on Santa Cruz, this is more commonly pursued on the east side of the island, near Scorpion’s Cove. 

Before you know it, it’ll be time for the ferry to head back to the mainland, so soak up all the secluded serenity while you can! Keep your eyes peeled as you head back— we spotted a mama whale and her calf on our way back…. an incredible experience!! 

Alternate Options

While we found the one-night backpacking trip to be a perfect sampling of Santa Cruz, here’s a few other ideas for folks a little less inclined to backpack or camp overnight. 

  1. If you hop off the ferry at Scorpion Anchorage, you’ll want to check out the Potato Harbor Overlook hike. This out-and-back hike clocks in at just over 5 miles, with 660’ of elevation, making it moderately challenging, but nothing too tricky. Definitely worth the effort to take in the gorgeous vista! 
  2. Have you ever been sea kayaking? Santa Barbara Adventure Company is the only company on Santa Cruz Island that offers guided kayaking trips. This is another Scorpion Anchorage stop, and it’s the perfect way to take in the iconic caves of the Santa Cruz coastline. Depending on your comfortability in a kayak, there’s a few different options regarding length of time out on the water. They also offer snorkel rentals and guided snorkeling tours! 
  3. Island Packers doesn’t just ferry people back and forth, you can opt for a nice day trip adventure with them. After departing from Ventura, you cruise into the Painted Cave, experiencing one of the biggest sea caves in the world. The colorful cave is named for the naturally occurring pigmentations, derived from various rock types and algae that make up its walls. The cave is also home to varied sealife as well– keep your eyes peeled for seals! After the cave exploration, the boat will head over to Prisoner’s Harbor to do the Pelican Bay trail hike (same one we did!). From there you’ll get to head back to Ventura. 
the memorable Prisoner's harbor with a simple dock and the hilly green backdrop
final thoughts

Santa Cruz Island, particularly Prison’s Harbor, is an almost-untouched sliver of California’s coastline that calls back to a bygone era of symbiosis between nature and the Chumash Indians that once inhabited. The wild island and its impressive seascape make for an amazing backpacking trip– you won’t regret making the trek out! 

Our friend made a lil vlog of our memorable backpacking adventure— check it out here!

If remote, warm island parks are your jam, we sure to check out Dry Tortugas National Park the next time you’re near the Florida Keys! 

written by Kayla 

A literal life saving queen, Kayla Grace is an Army nurse in Fort Irwin, California. When she’s not fixing up folks up in the emergency department, she is likely to be found running, walking, or hiking outside. She also has quite the green thumb and keeps all her plants alive… not just surviving but thriving! Before moving to CA, Kayla was stationed in Washington for a few years, where she discovered her her love for camping and the general woodland-fairy ambiance she exudes while out adventuring. Still rather new to the southern California region, Kayla is in her desert-girl era, exploring her new state with gusto.

Categories
national parks

The Most Memorable Day at Gateway Arch National Park 

Does an urban national park sound like an oxymoron? While national parks usually embody sprawling, untouched wilderness, the Gateway Arch breaks the mold as it celebrates the Westward expansion of the United States. This eye-catching memorial is the tallest man-made monument in the United States, designed by architect Eero Saarinen. There were over 170 unique designs; however, his particularly memorable design was chosen and has stood the test of time since its inception in 1963. 

St. Louis is home to the one and only Gateway Arch National Park, making this park much easier to reach and robustly experience than others in the repertoire. While it might not take your breath away quite like the staggering beauty of some of the other larger, more natural parks, there’s a certain charm to the historic reminder of our country’s growth. While eager history and architecture buffs would likely be keen to make a day of it, for most, a half day is the perfect amount of time to allot for visiting the Gateway Arch National Park. 

Fast Facts About GATEWAY ARCH National Park

Size: 91 acres

Visitors: 1,618,774 visitors (data from 2022)

Became a National Park: Feb. 23, 2018

Highest point: the top of the arch is 630 ft high — interestingly it’s also 630 feet wide from leg to leg

The upside of the park’s small stature is that it’s rather easy to get the full experience in a half-day visit. We swung through driving back up to Wisconsin, and this was baby Xavier’s first national park visit. While he *technically* visited Indiana Dunes, Rocky Mountain, and Olympic National Parks in utero, the Gateway Arch made for a very un-intimidating first national park for us to visit with him. I must say, he’s a hard man to impress… he had the audacity to try and sleep through the whole thing!!

Park vs Monument… the NPS tea

The Gateway Arch is the tallest monument in the United States, but that begs the question… why is it a national park and not a national monument? There’s not a great answer for this name change and corresponding national park designation, as they were decided upon in Congress. Interestingly, the National Park Service did have something to say on the matter submitted a statement to the hearing on the legislation for the name change that said:

“… the National Park Service strives to provide consistency in the naming of park units. To better align with the standard nomenclature for units of the National Park System, we recommend that Congress re-designate the unit as “Gateway Arch National Monument.” National parks contain a variety of resources and encompass large land or water areas to help provide adequate protection of the resources. The existing 59 designated national parks protect at a minimum thousands of acres each, and some span millions of acres. At only 91 federal acres, we believe that the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial is too small and limited in the range of resources the site protects and interprets to be called a national park.’”

This makes Gateway Arch National Park the only urban national park in the repertoire– certainly unique, but also setting an interesting precedent for future designations. Will this remain the only smaller, more urban national park or will others join its ranks in the years to come? Only time will tell! 

When To Visit

While the most popular time of year to visit is in the spring and summer months, we stopped by on a beautiful day in January and very much recommend a mid-winter visit. There were no lines to deal with, and even on a more frigid day, so much of what you come to see is indoors, so the time of year is less important. 

TIME TO EXPLORE

Depending on where you’re coming from, getting into the arch may be a bit counter-intuitive. If you head over right from the designated parking garage, you won’t have any problem wandering to the west entrance, which faces Fourth Street and the Old Courthouse. If you’re out walking along the river, the entry point is *not* in the base of either arch; however, you can exit from the arch legs, which sometimes confuses people. 

Tickets

Upon entering the building, the ticket counter is easy to spot. If you plan to visit in the spring or summer months – especially on a weekend day, you should consider purchasing your tickets in advance, to ensure you’ll be able to make it up!

Security 

With your ticket in hand, the next step will be going through security. Think of a more-relaxed version of TSA. You’ll have to empty your pockets and step through a scanner, but no one is going to make you dump out your water bottle. As an important note, no weapons, including pepper spray and fixed-blade knives (except fold-out pocket knives with a blade size less than 4″) are allowed, so if you keep pepper spray on your keychain or in your purse, you’ll want to make sure that stays in the car. Even if you don’t plan to take the tram ride, you will still need to go through the security checkpoint to get to the museum, cafe, documentary movie, and gift shop areas. 

Museum of Westward Expansion 

The museum is quite lovely to wander through, and rather engaging for visitors of all ages with its interactive displays and exhibits. Not only are there exhibits detailing the nuances of westward expansion in US history, but there’s a rather interesting section about the arch architecture. It’s fun to see the runner-up designs and learn more about the unique tram system that carries visitors to the top. Depending on how early you arrive before your tram time, you can explore the museum before or after you ride… or both! 

a memorable museum exhibit, demonstrating the history of the icon Gateway arch
Tram 

Once you’re through the museum, the lower level space opens up, and you can head on down to get your tram ticket scanned. As the group awaits the arrival of all its participants, everyone is provided a boarding pass of sorts for their individual tram. Each tram can hold up to 5 people, but man oh man would that be a snug fit to put five grown adults in one tram car. I’m not sure how things go over the summer, but it was definitely nice that groups were more dispersed.

After everyone in the group has arrived, there’s a short background history of the arch provided, and then everyone is led over to their assigned tram. The ride up goes quickly, only taking a couple minutes. 

The windows at the top are a little small, but it’s rather amazing to peer out of the Mississippi River and the city of St. Louis and realize you’re doing so from the top of the arch. Everyone has ample time (about 8-10 minutes) to look around, read some of the signage, and take a picture or two, and then it’s time to head back down. The descent is just slightly speedier than the ascent, and in no time at all, your back– boots on the ground! 

Once you’ve ridden the tram, it’s worth a couple minutes of your time to pop back into the museum and read about the unique transportation system constructed to carry people up the arch… it’s one of a kind! 

The Extras 

We really enjoyed reading, watching, and listening in the museum, but if you’re keen to learn more, there’s a documentary movie you can check out (showtimes here). While tickets aren’t free, it’s likely the cheapest movie ticket you’ve bought in a while! You can also head over to the gift store to collect your passport stamp and pick up any mementos you might desire. There’s a little virtual reality experience you can check out as well– looks like something that could be fun for kiddos. 

There’s a cafe if you’re feel pecking, but it’s worth noting, the upside of being an urban national park is that there’s a whole bunch of dining options within easy walking distance

The Old Courthouse 

Once you’ve had your fill of arch exploration, you can head over to the courthouse. What is so special about this courthouse? It was the site of not one but two cases that became formative to the cultural landscape. In 1847 Dred and Harriet Scott, an enslaved couple, sued for and were granted their freedom. This case went through appeals and ended up going before the Supreme Court, which overturned the original verdict, stating that since slaves were property they didn’t have the right to sue. BIG YIKES. This case is reflective of culture in the United States at the time and is thought to be one of the precipitating factors of the Civil War.

It’s also where Virginia Minor and her husband sued for her right to vote. She went on to become a huge advocate for suffrage rights for women. 

The historic courthouse is currently closed as it undergoes a multi-million dollar renovation project. That being said, it’s set to be finished by 2025, and should be quite impressive whenever it’s completed. 

Riverboat Rides

Not exactly a park experience, but you can take in the Mississippi River and view the Arch from the water on a riverboat cruise. The boats are a callback to a bygone era, when steamboats ruled the river and drove local commerce. We visited on a beautiful January day, but it wasn’t quite let’s-take-a-riverboat-cruise warm, which is why the riverboat tours only run March through November.

If you’re passing through town, you could definitely see the Gateway Arch in a few hours, but if you’re looking to make a day of it, this would be a perfect way to savor the Arch and get to know a bit more about St. Louis and the history of the hard-working river.

Gateway Arch National Park is not only an impressive architectural monument, but it serves as an important memory to the westward expansion of our country and journey we took as a nation to get here. It’s certainly worth stopping by if you’re in St. Louis or road tripping nearby. Due it’s rather urban stature, it’s hard to compare the ~natural beauty~ of a man-made arch to some of astounding feats of nature at other parks; however, the very nature of this ‘park’ is a memorable memorial to the country’s growth that houses many of the nation’s most alluring national parks!

If you’re looking for your next national park adventure and you enjoy a national park with a little extra historical significance, Dry Tortugas National Park might tickle your fancy. This old fort can be found about 70 miles off the coast of the Florida keys, making it rather remote but incredibly picturesque.

written by Hannah 

Hannah traded the warm beaches of southwest FL for the outdoor adventure locale that is Bend, OR. Despite the distance, Hannah maintains her bossy big sister role with regular phone calls to keep up with all the little sister shenanigans. Notoriously chatty with her patients as well, Hannah stays busy as a physical therapist, but loves making time to explore newfound hikes. These days she has some extra pack weight; however, Xavier is notorious for being unimpressed by sweeping vistas.

Categories
national parks

One Full Day Exploring in Olympic National Park 

The Olympic Peninsula, a veritable cornucopia of ecosystems in western Washington, is home to the one and only Olympic National Park. This unique park houses a rainforest, wilderness beaches, sub-alpine forests, rugged glaciers, and breathtaking lakes, making it rather one of a kind. One could easily spend a few days here, exploring all the nooks and crannies of the peninsula, but sometimes time is of the essence. If you have limited time to spend exploring in Olympic, we have the perfect itinerary for you… but rest up and pack your snacks because it’s going to be quite the action-packed day! 

Washington is home to three national parks— Olympic being the most-visited, with 2,432,972 visitors in 2022. It boasts 73 miles of wilderness coast, over 3,000 miles of streams and rivers, and 60 glaciers. For eager outdoorsmen (and women) the park has 611 miles of trails to scout out, which still leaves the other 95% of the park as a designated wilderness area. The medley of sights, sounds, climates, and creatures is truly amazing. 

Fast Facts About OLYMPIC National Park

Size: 922,651 acres

Visitors: 2,432,972 visitors (data from 2022)

Distance from Seattle: 85 miles — 2.5 hour drive

Became a National Park: June 29th, 1938

Highest point: Mount Olympus at 7,980 ft

Busiest month to visit: August — 634,516 visitors

two sisters in the Hoh Rainforest at the end of a long day exploring in Olympic National Park

Sister Kayla currently lives in near-by Tacoma, so she’s had the opportunity for a bit more robust exploring, but my arrive-a-couple-days-before-our-friend’s-wedding timeline didn’t leave much wiggle room in the ‘ole itinerary. As always, a little bit of adventuring is better than no adventuring! Here’s as much as we could cram into ~24 hours in Olympic National Park. 

Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center

In the northern mountains of the Olympic peninsula, you’ll find the Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center and trailhead. There’s more than one hike on the docket for today, so you don’t want to burn too bright too soon. If you just want to stretch out your legs, there’s a few meadow loop trails that let you meander without getting too taxing. Perhaps you’re feeling ready to take on the day?! The Hurricane Hill via Hurricane Ridge hike is 3.4 miles long with 826ft of elevation to climb. Not exactly easy peasy, but the panoramic views are a most amazing way to start the day. 

Unfortunately we visited in June 2023, and the Hurricane Ridge area of the park was temporarily closed as the Hurricane Ridge Day Lodge burned down in May 2023. This temporarily changed operations in this region of the park, but the park has since re-opened. Currently, only 430 vehicles are allowed access at the Heart O’ the Hills Entrance on Hurricane Ridge Road. If you’re stressing about making it into the park, there is a shuttle service that runs, even as the park hits the 430 vehicle limit. You can find out more about the shuttle stops and cost here. 

Even though the Hurricane Ridge area of the park has opened back up, it’s not quite fully operational at this point. The infrastructure is still limited, so don’t plan on stocking up on gift store swag or snacks at this visitor center… think porta-potties and big self-sufficiency energy. You can find more information and recent access updates here. 

Crescent Lake

Heading west in the park will bring you to Crescent Lake and all the fun that awaits. There’s a few different spots to go hiking here, and they’re all great options. The Moments in Time trail clocks in at 0.7 miles with only 9 feet of elevation, so this is going to be perfect for anyone that’s looking for more of a walk than a big time hike. If you enjoy hiking but aren’t in the mood to tackle serious elevation, the Devil’s Punchbowl trail will be a nice 2.5 miles with just under 140 feet of elevation. 

Now, if you’re looking for a real kick in the pants, Mount Storm King is the hike for you. It’s a little over 4 miles round trip and tackles 2,100 feet of elevation. What makes this even more exciting? The 4 miles is an out and back trail, so it’s really ~2 miles each way, with the first (and last) 0.5 miles being flat. For those of you math wizards, that means you’re going to crush over 2,000 feet elevation in 1.5 miles making it *not* a hike for the faint of heart.

Once you start going uphill, you pretty much don’t stop climbing until you reach the viewpoint… with the last portion of the hike being steep enough that there’s ropes in place to help weary hikers haul themselves up. That being said, the view at the top really is rather spectacular— more than worth the grueling climb. I did it while I was pregnant, so you definitely can crush it!!! 

Rialto Beach

The next stop on the adventure route here is Rialto Beach. You can always pack your favorite floaties, but it’s not likely you’ll find yourself using them. Even when we visited in the middle of June, it was still rather chilly and overcast. You’re much more likely to be rocking gore-tex boots and rain pants! 

Don’t let that slow you down– the beach really does have an ethereal sort of charm. Still feel like your legs have some energy left in the tank? Take a walk on the beach! If the tides are in your favor, you might even make it up to some cool rock formations on the north end of the beach via the Hole-in-the-Wall trail (3.3 miles out & back). 

Hoh Rainforest & Campground

Continuing south but also a bit inland on the Peninsula, you’ll find the Hoh Rainforest. As you make the trek out to the rainforest, you’ll be able to watch the climate and topography change yet again. This is the last stop on the itinerary for the day… with a bit of a chose-you-own-adventure option. What do you consider a full day… sun-up to sun down, or a full 24 hours? If you have the time to stay the night, we do recommend popping a tent and hunkering down for the night. While the line for entry to this part of the park can get quite lengthy, arriving later in the day should help avoid peak wait times. 

We stayed at campsite #70, and like the locale. Not necessarily the most private or secluded campsite, but it was along the river and nice and close to the bathroom— without being so close you have to worry about all the bathroom foot traffic. The campground is also an easy walking distance to the Hoh Visitor Center, so it was nice to set up camp and then go wander on over.

Extra things to know:

As an added bonus for any Twilight fans out there, getting from Rialto Beach to the Hoh Rainforest involves driving through Forks, WA. Yes, that’s right— the town in the Twilight series isn’t made up… it’s a real place out on the Olympic peninsula. While we didn’t catch a glimpse of any vampires, it’s always fun to feel like you’re in the pages of a book. 

If you’re planning to swing by the grocery store, you might find yourself out in a bit of a food desert. The Forks Outfitters Thriftway is about the only grocery store you’re going to find as you go from the beach towards the rainforest, so either make sure you have everything you need for dinner before you leave Port Angeles, or plan to snag food at this local stop. 

HOT TIP

As an aside, if you’re ever trying to snag a campsite on short-ish notice in a national park, the app ‘Campflare’ is a lifesaver. Campgrounds can fill up months in advance, and you can’t always count on the limited release (i.e. available 2 weeks, 1 week, 4 days out) sites to be available because those can go snatched-up-in-seconds FAST. 

You input the campground you’re interested in staying at as well as the dates you’re looking for, and you will get notified immediately if a campsite becomes available. We’ve only recently discovered this app ourselves, but we’ve had good luck with snagging campsites at both Rocky Mountain and Olympic National Parks. A friend was able to luck into three consecutive nights at the same campground in Glacier with only ~2 weeks notice. Nothing is ever guaranteed, but it is rather helpful to know about!

waking up to find Kayla under her sleeping pad instead of over it ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
Spruce Nature Trail & Hall of Mosses Loop

To round out a cool 24 hours in the park, sneak in one final hike before you hit the road. While Olympic is home to glaciers, they remain remains rather elusive on this trip as the 35 mile round trip hike to Blue Glacier from the Hoh Visitor Center isn’t exactly one-day-itinerary material. Instead, the Spruce Nature Trail (1.2 miles) and Hall of Mosses Loop (0.8 miles) make for a nice morning walk before you head out for the day. Even if your legs are feeling tuckered out from all the hiking the day before, both trails combined tackle less than 110 feet of elevation, so it truly is just a walk as opposed to a grueling climb.

Time flies when you’re having fun, and the dynamic duo of sister time plus a new park makes for a very fast day of adventuring indeed. Olympic National Park has an amazing array of beautiful scenery to take in. It’s so worth making time to visit on your next trip out to Washington. Have time for more than one park? Head over to the iconic Mount Rainier next, to check out some outstanding day hikes.

written by Hannah 

Hannah has learned the hard way to be careful what you wish for— sometimes happily ever after lands you with a husband and puppy… in the Midwest. Despite leaving Florida to move to Wisconsin, Hannah maintains her bossy big sister role with regular phone calls to keep up with all the little sister shenanigans. Notoriously chatty with her patients as well, Hannah stays busy as a physical therapist, but loves spending weekends exploring newfound hikes.

Categories
national parks

An Action-Packed Three Day Itinerary in the Rocky Mountains

Rocky Mountain National Park is nestled in northern Colorado, just an hour and a half outside of Denver. With miles of scenic drives, countless alpine lakes, and mountains galore, you’re practically guaranteed gorgeous views and unforgettable days. With so much to see, an action-packed itinerary is all but guaranteed! Make sure you pack your sturdiest hiking boots and your favorite trail snacks because there’s so much adventuring to be done.

How much time do you need to explore? Depends on how much time you have! Since the park is relatively short drive from Denver, it’s totally possible to make a day-trip out of it. That being said, if you’re coming from out of town to really explore the park, we recommend at least three days. This will allow you to tackle a couple big hikes and traverse the different regions of the park.

Fast Facts About Rocky Mountain National Park

Size:  265,807 acres

Visitors: 4,434,848 visitors annually (data from 2021)

Highest Elevation: 14,259 feet at Long’s Peek

Camping: there are five campgrounds in the park, which welcomed 110,586 tent campers and 55,326 RV campers in 2022

Hiking: 355 miles of trails in the park

National Park Initiation: Established in 1915 by President Woodrow Wilson

Rocky Mountain is huge and does have a truly beautiful range of landscapes, so three days gives you enough time to explore all the different areas of the park and really appreciate the topography. Regardless of the time of year you visit, you are sure to be blown away and humbled by the magnitude of mother nature in this charming pocket of Colorado.

photo of the Rocky Mountain National Park at the east entrance to the park, awaiting eager visitors and an action-packed itinerary

Getting into the Park: Timed Entry Permits

what is it?

From May 26th through October 22nd Rocky Mountain operates with a timed entry system, to better regulate visitors to the park. The purpose of the timed entry program, is not to limit the overall quantity of visitors into the park, but rather to help spread out everyone’s arrival throughout the day. Systems like this are in place at a handful of different parks to help diffuse traffic and crowding in high season. If you are visiting outside these dates, you won’t have to worry about any entry permits!

Rocky Mountain’s timed entry system has two options: either ‘Park Access’ or ‘Park Access +’. Bear Lake Road hosts a handful of rather popular hikes that increase the traffic to this area. If you are interested in visiting the Bear Lake Corridor, you will need to secure a Park Access Plus reservation, which will grant you access to everywhere in the park. If you’re not terribly keen on the hikes off Bear Lake road, the Park Access reservation will get you anywhere in the park, besides the Bear Lake Corridor.

The ‘Park Access’ permit is required for those arriving between 9am and 2pm. The ‘Park Access +’ pass is required for visitors accessing the park areas after 5am and before 6pm. If you plan to arrive outside of these hours, you will not need to worry about snagging an entry permit.

It’s worth noting, if you’re planning a multi-day trip to Rocky Mountain, you will need a Timed Entry ticket for every day you plan to be there.

how do i get it?

Both the Park Access and Park Access+ Timed Entry Permits are released on a first-come, first-serve basis. You can reserve your timed entry passes online here. The reservations become available according to the following schedule:

Planning a last minute trip and not seeing much available for entry times? Don’t fret! The parks system retains 40% of the available Park Access and Park Access+ timed entry permits to be released first-come, first-serve starting at 5 p.m. the night prior. For example, if I’m hoping to visit the park on June 5th, the remainder of the passes become available on June 4th at 5pm.

Camping

Rocky Mountain has five different campgrounds dispersed throughout the park, and they are POPULAR! There’s an online reservation system in place to help facilitate campsite booking, which is pretty user-friendly. Campsites open up 6 months in advance, and they go fast— especially for holiday weekends throughout the summer.

To help the last-minute-camper, they do a limited release for a handful of campsites, so there’s still hope you might be able to snag a campsite 2 weeks or 1 week out. We’ve also used the app Campflare before to help snag campsites people cancel. You set the campground, campsite type, and dates, and it will notify you immediately if something becomes available. Awesome resource!

Glacier Basin

Glacier Basin campground opens in late May and stays open until mid-September. If you’re planning to do lots of exploring and hiking in the Bear Lake area of the park, this campground will have you perfectly situated for all of your alpine lake and waterfall adventures. You can scope out availability as well as more information here.

Longs Peak

This campground has limited availability for use due to its higher elevation and increased snowfall. It typically opens mid-summer and closes in early fall (dates vary here more than the other campgrounds). You can check here to see if the campground is open yet. It’s worth noting, this is the only first come, first serve campground in the park (i.e. will not be available for online reservation).

If you’re keen to stay near the Long’s Peak trailhead but find the campground still closed, there’s other options! While staying in Estes Park wouldn’t be too lengthy of a drive, the Dao House is only 7 minutes away form the trailhead. This is super convenient if you’re looking to streamline an early morning hike. We stayed at the hostel-part of their lodge, in lieu of camping, but they have “normal” hotel rooms and cabins available as well. We really enjoyed it!

Moraine Park

The Moraine Park Campground is the only campground you’ll find open year-round. That’s right, if you feel like riskin’ it for the biscuit during the winter season, you’ll be able to bunk down in Moraine Park. You can find more information as well as availability here.

Timber Creek

Timber Creek Campground is the only campground on the west side of the park. It’s perfectly situated between the Alpine Visitor Center and Grand Lake, making it a nice spot to base out of for all your west-side exploring. Timber Creek opens in late May and closes up shop in late September. You can check out availability here.

Aspenglen

Just past the Fall River entrance to the park, the Aspenglen Campground opens in late May and hosts eager campers until late September. As you might imagine, this spot provides easy assess to the Fall River area trails. This campsite has the convenience of being close to Estes Park, on the more-popular east side of the park, while being a bit smaller and more secluded than Moraine Park and Glacier Basin. You can find campsite information and availability here.

We tent-camped on site A in the A Loop and loved the little slice of peace and calm (with amazing bathrooms nearby). Definitely recommend!

just so ya know

If you have a camping reservation for Aspenglen, Glacier Basin, or Timber Creek Campgrounds, you do not need an additional timed entry permit to enter the park. A timed entry permit is included with your campground reservation— you will be permitted in the park beginning at 1pm. The Aspenglen and Glacier Basin campgrounds will provide ‘Park Access+’, while those staying at Timber Creek Campground will have ‘Park Access’ (see map above for access location differentiation). If you plan to arrive any earlier than that, you would need to snag a separate, additional entry pass.

If you’re more keen to explore the backcountry, all of those wilderness permit reservations can also be made on recreation.gov here.

Pack Your Sack

An all inclusive packing list is difficult to detail at length as it truly depends on the time of year you’re visiting— as well as what trails you plan to hike. For example when we visited in late May, some trails were dry while others were rather muddy and others yet still had a couple feet of snow. Regardless, there’s a few staples that are nice to have:

A light jacket

Whether it’s cool at the summit or you’re just keen to ensure you stay warm on your snack/view break, you won’t regret bringing a little jacket along.

Trekking pole(s)

I didn’t used to feel like I needed these, but they can be SO CLUTCH when you’re tackling some serious elevation. I personally am more of a one pole gal, but pack whatever you need!

Merino Wool Socks

Merino wool will keep your feet warm when you need it to, but there’s so much more to it than warmth! They are generally a more supportive material to have hugging your foot for hours on end, and if you do find yourself with wet feet, merino wool will still keep you warm, even if you get it wet.

Layers

This is less specific, but generally speaking it’s nice to have a tank top + short sleeve + long sleeve + jacket outfit as opposed to just wearing one thicker shirt or jacket, just because temperatures can fluctuate throughout the hike. It’s nice to be able to adjust accordingly!

Hiking Boots

You’ll see plenty of people risking it all in their trainers, but we really recommend packing your hiking boots or at the very least trail running shoes to ensure you’re properly equipped.

Yak Trax

Even in the summer?! You’d be surprised! The Long’s Peak trailhead is up at over 9,000 feet of elevation, so the snow there will last well into June. The extra grip is a savior when you’re tromping through the snow!

Water Bottle

Water is a must! Get a bladder for your daypack or fill your reusable bottle up to the bring. It’s always better to be carrying a little extra water in your pack than it is to find yourself parched out on the trail. While you’re at it, maybe throw in a Gatorade too!

Snacks

We made multiple-times-a-day trips to the Safeway in Estes Park, so you don’t necessarily need to bring a full meal into the park, but you should definitely plan to bring some snacks along with you on the trail! Everyone’s summit snack of choice is different. We love a little trail mix and protein bar to power us back up, but there’s nothing like a pack of Gushers to reward yourself for a job well done.

Estes Park

Estes Park is the city just outside the east entrances to the national park. It is beyond convenient to have a bustling town nearby. It makes meals and hydration easier to stay on top of— plus there’s plenty of shops nearby if you happen to forget anything. Our only word of warning would be that it can get busy around there… like drive-around-for-30-minutes-trying-to-find-parking busy. There’s some awesome local breweries and restaurants tucked in there, but the local Safeway also makes for a close and easy spot if you’re hungry and need food NOW.

Day 1

The first day in the park can be a lot if you’re arriving from lower elevation. Everyone adapts to the changes in elevation differently, but regardless, it’s never a bad idea to make sure you’re drinking lots of water and paying attention to any symptoms you might be feeling.

The name of the game today is alpine lakes! First stop? Park at the Glacier Gorge Trailhead to hike out to see Alberta Falls & Mills Lake. The falls are just before you hit 1 mile, so it’s a nice way to enjoy beautiful views along the way.

Distance: 5.5 miles round trip

Elevation: 825 feet

Difficulty: Moderate

Up next? The Bear Lake Loop! This short loop makes for a nice easy jaunt with a beautiful view. The ease of the hike makes it popular for visitors of all ages. If you’re feeling a bit nervous about being active at elevation, you could always starts with this nice warm-up before embarking on the Mills Lake loop.

Distance: 0.5 miles round trip

Elevation: 40 feet

Difficulty: easy

You can choose or or you can go see them all! The trail to Nymph Lake, Dream Lake, and Emerald Lake splits off right from the Bear Lake Loop trail, so this makes for an easy add on, if you still feel like you have some hiking left. The milage and elevation progressively increase the farther you go, with Emerald Lake being the farthest down the trail. Beautiful lakes— plus you get to pull away from the crowds on the Bear Lake Loop.

Distance: 1, 2.2, 3.6 miles round trip

Elevation: 225, 425, 605 feet

Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Day 2

Now that you’ve got your feet under you, get ready for an early wake up that will take you for an amazing ride. Parking at the Long’s Peaks trailhead, get ready to tackle the beautiful hike to Chasm Lake. We visited in late May (over memorial day weekend), and we were rathered humbled by the snow still on the trail. Even being prepared with trekking poles and yak trax, the snow just inherently makes things a bit slower going. Even at a slow pace, it was an amazing hike with waterfalls, sweeping vistas, and amazing alpine views.

Picture below is the junction overlooking Peacock Pond, just under a mile out from Chasm Lake. The combination of thick snow and sheer ledge in the remaining portion of the hike had us hesitant to finish the last leg, but it would be such a no brainer in late summer or early fall.

Distance: 8 miles round trip

Elevation: 2,550 feet

Difficulty: hard

If you’re feeling a little tuckered out after a longer hike, the game plan for the rest of the day is far more relaxing. Trail Ridge Road connects the east side of Rocky Mountain National Park to the west, with breathtaking sweeping views and a staggering elevation of over 12,000 feet. If you feel like you still have a little something left in the tank, you can tackle the short (0.6 miles) Alpine Ridge Hike at the Alpine Visitor Center. If you make it all the way to the end of the road, you can also explore Grand Lake!

Day 3

How frisky are you feeling today? A real choose-your-own-adventure situation awaits. If you’re a big time hiker and can crush big hike days back to back, the Sky Pond hike is a must-do. You’ll want to start early, parking at either the Bear Lake or Glacier Gorge Trailhead and get on your way. This is actually more than a hike as there’s a bit of scrambling required towards the end.

Distance: 8.5 miles round trip (from the Glacier Gorge Trailhead)

Elevation: 1,700 feet

Difficulty: Hard

If your legs aren’t quite up for another long hike, but still want to saunter around, the Beaver Mountain Loop will be perfect. This hike explores and overlooks the Fall River area of the park. There’s a couple lookout points that take small detours from the trail and are so worth popping off for. Beautiful vistas from a new vantage point!

Distance: 4.2 miles round trip

Elevation: 850 feet

Difficulty: Moderate

The Sprague Lake Loop really is a hike for anyone with its handicap accessibility and gorgeous sweeping views. Even if your legs are feeling a bit tuckered out from a morning adventure, this easy and relaxing hike is largely paved making it the perfect spot for an evening walk.

Distance: 1 miles round trip

Elevation: 40 feet

Difficulty: easy

Rocky Mountain National Park is an amazing destination for anyone looking to spend some time immersed in nature. It has the unique ability to enthrall the casual visitor, while providing all the thrill adventure-seekers may be looking for. We hope you have an amazing time exploring this gem. Happy travels!

written by Hannah 

Hannah has learned the hard way to be careful what you wish for— sometimes happily ever after lands you with a husband and puppy… in the Midwest.  Despite leaving Florida to move to Wisconsin,  Hannah maintains her bossy big sister role with regular phone calls to keep up with all the little sister shenanigans. Notoriously chatty with her patients as well, Hannah stays busy as a physical therapist, but loves spending weekends exploring newfound hikes.

Categories
national parks tropical destinations

Everything You Need to Know About the Remote Dry Tortugas 

Out in the Gulf of Mexico, with nothing in sight for miles, sits Dry Tortugas National Park. ​​This sparkling 100-square mile park is predominantly open water, with seven small islands included in the protected ecosystem. Boasting amazing snorkeling, unique birdwatching, and a little slice of history, this isolated park is worth the effort! Having been a couple times, we can fill you in on everything you need to know about the remote Dry Tortugas National Park. 

Dry Tortugas National Park was one of the first national parks we visited, and we went in a most unusual fashion! Growing up in Florida afforded us the opportunity to learn all kinds of water sports, and sailing was one such sport! Every summer the organization we sailed with would plan a sailing trip from our hometown in Fort Myers down to the Dry Tortugas, and we would spend a week down there before heading back. 

The natural beauty here really is amazingly untouched. When we went down, we would live on the sailboat for the duration of our adventure— an adventure girl’s overwater bungalow if you will. It was amazing to peer down into the crystal clear water and see nurse sharks, massive goliath grouper, barracuda, and all kinds of fish just swimming by… every single day. Not only is the water clear, but it’s the most beautiful shade of blue. It’s so peaceful to stare off into the horizon and not be able to distinguish where the sky ends and the water begins. 

Fast Facts About Dry Tortugas National Park

Size:  100 square miles

Visitors: 83,817 visitors annually (data from 2021)

Distance from Key West: 68 miles

National Park Initiation: became Fort Jefferson National Monument in January 1935 and graduated to Dry Tortugas National Park on October 26th, 1992 

All About Location

Where is this secluded park hiding?? About 70 miles west of Key West you’ll find Garden Key which houses the park headquarters, a visitor center, and a campground… plus some great snorkeling areas! Below we have detailed everything you need to know about getting to the park, things to do once you’re there, and everything that makes this coastal national park unique.

Fort Jefferson

A military fort? On an island in the middle of the Gulf? Yup, you read that right… or at least it was for a while. Fort Jefferson stands as a tremendous but unfinished fortress, making it the largest brick masonry configuration in America, with over 16 million bricks utilized to bring it to life. 

Originally scouted as a potential lookout site to suppress piracy in the Caribbean, the fort is located along a busy ship traffic route, so the port served as a harbor for United States ships needing to resupply, refit, or seek refuge during a storm. While the fort was never finished (under construction from 1846-1875) or fully armed, it served as a symbol of protection, for at the time, was a young nation. 

The fort was briefly used as a prison for Union deserters during its construction— most notably housing Dr. Samuel Mudd, the physician accused of conspiring with John Wilkes Booth (he was eventually pardoned by President Andrew Johnson in 1869). 

Dry Tortugas National Park was established in October 1992 to protect the islands and underwater ecosystems of the Dry Tortugas, to preserve both Fort Jefferson as well as submerged cultural resources nearby (i.e. shipwrecks), and to allow for public access in an organized manner.

Things to pack 
  • Reef safe sunscreen — don’t just pack any old sunscreen… if you plan on doing any snorkeling, be sure to pack a reef safe sunscreen (our favorite reef safe face sunscreens). It’s sometimes a little strange to think of a coral reef as a compilation of living, growing organisms, but the chemicals in some screens can be damaging to the reef systems. 
  • Hat — man oh man can the sun get hot out there, and the sun is strong!! You will never regret packing a sun hat or a baseball cap to protect your head and give you a little extra shade
  • Water bottle — while water may be provided to you, it’s never a bad idea to bring a water bottle along for the ride. Florida is known for its year-round warm temperatures and its position close to the equator means you might have to be a little more intentional about hydration than you’re used to… even in November! 
  • Change of clothes — not necessary for everyone, but if you’re visiting in the summer you might get a little sweaty and salty after wandering around and snorkeling. Sometimes it’s nice to have a clean, dry outfit to change into for your journey home! 
the shady spots are few and far between!!

How to Get There

With the park being accessible exclusively by boat or seaplane, you have to put in a bit of planning to get to Dry Tortugas National Park. With the nearest drive-able location being Key West (check out our Key West blog post here), you’ll get to enjoy the south Florida archipelago before embarking upon the sparkling blues of the national park. Each option has its pros and cons, and the size of the group you’re going with as well as the direction of your overall interests (day trip, camping, etc) will largely dictate what will be best for you. 

Option #1: The Yankee Freedom from Key West 
The Day Trip Scoop

The best part about a remote part is that you are privy to a two-for-one experience. Not only is this a means of transportation but the ferry ride also takes you on a gorgeous ride through the Gulf of Mexico. Holding 250 people, the ferry isn’t a ‘small group’ experience, but it’s nowhere near as hectic as a cruise ship at port. It’s nice to have a large boat to wander around while you’re cruising. She gets up to a top speed of 30 knots! 

Everyone on board receives a complimentary breakfast and lunch, so it’s nice to not have to worry about packing a lunch before your 7am check-in time. The good times keep rolling once you arrive. The cost of the tour includes your admission into the park as well as a fully narrated 45 minute tour of Fort Jefferson. Also super convenient, snorkeling equipment is provided… one less thing to pack is always music to my ears! 

Timeline for the day:

Snorkel gear is available to Yankee Freedom sailors upon arrival at Ft Jefferson, and I cannot recommend highly enough how much you MUST give this a try during your day of exploration. Since the Dry Tortugas are protected waters, the marine life is amazing. We’re talking swimming with the biggest lobster you’ve ever seen, colorful coral arrays, and hundreds of curious fishes. 

The ferry allows for 5 hours of exploration around the fort and snorkeling. Which is more than enough to get the essence of the Dry Tortugas. The fort sits on a small, 14 acre island, so there is only so much overground exploration to be had on the island itself. If you consider yourself a casual to moderate purveyor of U.S. national parks, this will likely be more than enough time to make you feel you can robustly check Dry Tortugas off your park bucket list. 

One Day Isn’t Enough! 

For those potentially looking to do a bit more kayaking or camping, the ferry is still an awesome option for you (likely your best option), but you’re going to need to make your plans in advance. The Yankee Freedom transports no more than 10 campers per day to Ft. Jefferson (for a max stay of 3 nights). Interested parties must decide in advance how long they plan to stay, to ensure both their outbound and inbound trips are scheduled. Even more exclusive, no more than three kayaks or small canoes may be transported on any trip, so these spots go fast…. like booking 6 months in advance still might not get you a kayak spot. 

If you plan to go camping via the Yankee Freedom, you don’t necessarily have to pack light, but it won’t be a free-for-all. Each camper must be able to contain their gear, food, water, and ice into one storage bin (max capacity 27 gallons), one bag (a < 75L backpack or duffel) and one cooler per person. The combined weight of the storage bin and bag cannot exceed 60 pounds. There is no weight limit for water and ice, but campers must be able to carry and lift their own coolers. It goes without saying, but you must supply your own containers. You can get the full scoop on Yankee Freedom camping information here. 

Camping Notes

A packing note: per US Coast guard regulation, no compressed gas (i.e. propane bottles) or liquid fuel are allowed, so you must use self-starting charcoal or Sterno gel if you want to get a flame going. Per Yankee Freedom safety guidelines, no weapons are allowed on board, so any knife blades cannot be more than 2.4 in. length or .5 in. width. 

An important cash-money note: for those just visiting for the day, you do NOT need to bring cash for your admission to the park as this is included in the cost of your ferry ticket. However, for those camping, you DO need to bring cash to pay for your campsite ($15 or $30/night) — this goes to the NPS and is not included in your ferry transportation costs as everyone’s length of stay is different. 

The primitive campground is just a short walk form the public dock, and it offers 8 individual campsites. Reservations are not required, as campsites are available on a first come, first serve basis. If there happens to be more campers than campsites, there is an overflow camping area. Once a camper arrives, they will be guaranteed a place to camp. If you have any other questions about camping, check out the NPS page here.

the Price is Right

This is the current pricing for adults (age 17-61), but they do offer various discounts for students, seniors, military personnel, and those that already have an annual parks pass. You can see the full rates list here. 

  • $200 pp
  • $220 pp for campers 
  • $240 pp for camping with kayak (the extra fee includes transportation of a kayak, not the provision of a kayak) 
Option #2: Key West Seaplane Adventures

The two-for-one special with a zippy flight to Fort Jefferson is that you get to enjoy a flight-seeing, birds eye view of the park as you make your way there… and then you further get to explore all that Garden Key has to offer! The perk of flying is that it cuts your transportation time in thirds, only taking 40 minutes each way. 

If you hear seaplane transportation calling your name, you have a couple options: visiting either a half-day or a full day. Half day options will have either a morning or afternoon departure, while full day excursions only leave in the morning. 

The cost of your admission into the park is NOT included in your seaplane adventure experience, so be sure to either pack cash or your national parks annual pass card.

What to know

Besides getting you to Fort Jefferson, with arguably the best view, they also provide bottled water and soft drinks to quench your thirst as well as snorkel gear to help facilitate your island exploration (you are certainly allowed to bring your own snorkel gear if you so chose). For adventurers embarking on a full-day tour they do not provide lunch, but they will have coolers to ensure any lunch you pack will still be tasty by meal time. Be sure to arrive with enough sustenance packed to last through your trip duration.  

They cannot and will not carry dive tanks, weights, knives, underwater scooters, flammable liquids, gas stoves, large coolers (or styrofoam coolers), pets of any kind, beach chairs, shade umbrellas, or drones. So be sure to leave all these items behind! Besides, who needs a drone when you’ll be the one up in the sky getting a bird’s eye view?! 

The Key West Seaplane Adventures contract with the NPS is only for half day or full-day round trip tours. As such they cannot leave passengers on the island overnight and are not a viable option for adventurers looking to go camping. 

Option #3: Private Charter 

A private charter is the perfect option for someone that’s looking to do a little bit more and get there according to your own schedule. The 12-hour day trip gives you a full day to explore, meaning you can go fishing, see the fort, hit up a couple snorkeling spots, and still make it back by the end of the day. While there’s a few options to choose from, Good Times Key West and Hillbilly Hookers are both well rated, with similar price points. This option is going to be the spendiest, but it will also provide the most flexibility to create your perfect itinerary. 

Things to Do

Self Guided Tour

While there’s no ranger-led tours of the fort, they do have a nice self-guided tour of Fort Jefferson available. It’s super easy to follow the signage, and you can always inquire at the visitor center if there’s anything additional you’re curious about.

Snorkeling 

Over 99% of Dry Tortugas National Park is under water, which means you’ve gotta get that snorkel mask on to really appreciate its beauty. The park sits at the southwestern corner of the Florida Keys reef, and the snorkeling here is exactly as amazing as you would expect in an area of protected waters. It’s illegal to spear-fish, lobster, and collect coral or shells within the park, so the marine wildlife are thriving.

The secluded nature of the park, in conjunction with an easterly flowing gulf current means there’s not only a greater plethora of the varied marine life, but the animals themselves tend to be bigger than their counterparts elsewhere in the keys. Even though it’s been years since we’ve been, I recall seeing the largest lobster, just living his life unbothered. It’s beyond special to experience nature in such a personal way. 

Visit Loggerhead Lighthouse 

Loggerhead Key is about three miles west of Garden Key, and is home to a quaint lighthouse as well as some excellent snorkeling. Day trip adventurers arriving by boat or seaplane are unlikely to have time to visit this dive site, but it is totally doable for those planning to camp (and bring a kayak) or any group planning on a private charter. 

The lighthouse has been standing since the mid-1800’s and is certainly fun to go seek out, but the crown jewel of Loggerhead key is the Windjammer wreck. This popular snorkel and dive spot found its resting place on the ocean floor in 1901 and has been integrating itself ito the coastal ecosystem ever since. Before you start paddling out to the wreck, be sure to grab a laminated underwater map from the visitor center to help guide your explorations! 

Bird-Watching 

Dry Tortugas National Park is a renowned birding destination— especially during the spring migration season. Almost 300 hundred different species of birds have been spotted down in the Dry Tortugas… with the elusive magnificent frigate bird and sooty tern nesting exclusively in the park… you won’t find them nesting anywhere else in the continental United States! Bird watching can be a pretty niched hobby, but park visitors of all interests are likely to be delighted by these little feathered national treasures. 

Fishing

The abundant marine life in the Dry Tortugas makes for some gooood fishing. That being said, you have to make sure you’ve crossed your t’s and dotting your i’s before you start casting.

As mentioned above, spearfishing and lobstering are not allowed in the park, so leave your best spears at home. Fishing in the Natural Resource Area is also prohibited. You will want to ensure you have a Florida saltwater fishing license and some “circle” hook (“j” hooks are not permitted). Be sure to pack any gear you might need before you head out, because there is, unsurprisingly, not a bait and tackle shop on Garden Key.

If you still need clarification, you can check out the current rules and regulations here. Sometimes you gotta know when to hold ’em and when to fold ’em… or in this case when to release them back. You can find more catch and release information can be found on the here.

This tends to be an awesome area to catch some tasty snapper and grouper! Best of luck fishing… here’s to hoping the biggest fish you see isn’t the one that got away!

fishing in the remote dry tortugas national park as birds fly in the background

Dry Tortugas National Park holds so many special memories to us, and we hope you have a lovely time taking in all there is to see, do, and learn in this beautiful, remote park. Happy adventuring!

written by Hannah 

Hannah has learned the hard way to be careful what you wish for— sometimes happily ever after lands you with a husband and puppy… in the Midwest.  Despite leaving Florida to move to Wisconsin,  Hannah maintains her bossy big sister role with regular phone calls to keep up with all the little sister shenanigans. Notoriously chatty with her patients as well, Hannah stays busy as a physical therapist, but loves spending weekends exploring newfound hikes.

Categories
national parks travel

The Six Best Day Hikes in Mount Rainier National Park

Mount Rainier towers above the skyline at 14,411 ft elevation and is a snow-capped, breath-taking vision of nature year-round. Outdoor enthusiasts of all ages and fitness levels travel to come experience the trails and the accompanying views. The transcendent peak is visible in the distance from over 100 miles away, and is a beautiful reminder of the vast topography within the park. The different regions of the park offer unique viewpoints of Mt Rainier. When you’re exploring someplace new, you want to be sure to make the most of your time. We’ve outlined the six best day hikes in Mount Rainier… the hardest part will be choosing which one to do first!

Whether you’re new to outdoor adventures or a seasoned wilderness explorer, there’s abounding beauty for everyone to savor. The views make hikes of any length fly by and steep elevations feel worth it. Grab your trekking poles and pack your bags!

Five Mt. Rainier Park Regions

It comes as no surprise that the landscape varies in different regions of the park. With over 250 miles of trails, there’s enough forests, rivers, lakes, and streams to stay enchanted for weeks. Before you get hiking, it helps to get your bearings. Due to the sheer size of the park, trails are sorted into five different areas.

  1. Sunrise — Northeast
  2. Ohanapecosh — Southeast
  3. Paradise — South
  4. Longmire — Southwest
  5. Carbon River & Mowich — Northwest

The mountain for which the park is named stands tall and impermeable in the center. There’s no way to drive through the center of the park, but there are ample trails to explore its surroundings.

Our Six Favorite Hikes
1. Mount Fremont Lookout Trail

The Sunrise area of the park showcases the impressive rocky terrain on the northeastern side of Mount Rainier. The Mt. Fremont hike was one of the first hikes we took in the park as continues to be a favorite, with its 360 degree views from the old fire tower lookout. While it wasn’t easy, we didn’t find it to be too overbearingly challenging at 6 miles with a little over 1,000 feet of elevation, and we felt we were rewarded in spades with both the magnitude of Mt. Rainier as well as the seemingly endless stretch of green valleys to the north. It boasts one of the best Rainier summit views in the park!

Mt. Fremont is one of the six best day hikes in Mt. Rainier national park with its sweeping views
2. Burroughs Mountain Trail

The Burroughs Mountain Trail also stems from the Sunrise Visitor Center and stretches 9 miles, tackling nearly 2,500 feet of elevation to climb the three Burroughs. Even if you don’t go the whole stretch you will be privy to beautiful views throughout, with the second Burroughs mountain, showcasing spectacular views of Mount Rainier as well as the Emmons Glacier. While wildlife spottings are never guaranteed, we’ve seen goats, marmot, and deer somewhat regularly. Last time we were in the park we even saw a bear. Definitely a trail for a hardier hiker, but so worth it!

3. Silver Falls Trail

A bit easier on the knees, the Silver Falls Trail in the Ohanapecosh region of the park is a very palatable 3 miles round trip. Compared to many other trails in the park, it’s relatively level, with about 500 feet of elevation gained in total throughout the hike. This makes it a more popular hike for families and hikers of all ages. The trail follows the Ohanapecosh River, and makes for quite the sight as the icy glacier water tumbles through Silver Falls. Another fun bonus, this is a loop trail (as opposed to going out and back along the same trail), so you will get to enjoy different forestry scenery on your way back.

photo via www.nps.gov
4. Skyline Trail

The Skyline Trail Loop is in the, very aptly named, Paradise area of the park. This little slice of heaven is the most popular among visitors and for good reason. The colorful meadows and running streams are just as idyllic as they sound, and it’s equally beautiful as the warm hues of fall foliage roll in. As this trail is a loop, you have two options for your climb. If you tackle the trail clockwise, you will have a steeper but shorter journey up to the Panorama Point. If you’re keen on a more graded climb, you’ll want to tackle this trail counterclockwise. Regardless of how you get there, both the journey and the destination are worthwhile.

5. Mildred Point Trail

Making your way into the Longmire region of the park, set your sights on the Mildred Point via Comet Falls trail. This trail stretches almost 8 miles and climbs over 2,500 feet of elevation. Don’t let that intimidate you though! This hike is a true two-for-one special. About a mile and a half in, you’ll get to enjoy the enchanting waterfall at Comet Falls, followed by some heart-pumping switchbacks and a log bridge that will lead you to Mildred Point.

From your perch at the top of a meadow, you will have an unfettered view of the ever-lovely Mt. Rainier. You really can’t beat the diverse landscape of this hike with its rushing waterfalls, flowing rivers, charming bridges, and endless meadows… all with Mount Rainier as a stunning backdrop.

photo via www.nps.gov
6. Tolmie Peak Trail

Gotta save the best for last! At the end of a 15 mile-long dirt road you’ll find the beginning of the Tolmie Peak Trail, right alongside Mowich Lake. This hike exudes etherial beauty with its sweeping views of Eunice Lake, rolling alpine peaks, and a snow-covered Rainier. The cherry on top? Tolmie Peak houses another fire-tower lookout, which guarantees a panoramic view. This hike covers about 5.5 miles and over 1,500 feet of elevation, making it moderately difficult, but certainly doable!

But Wait, There’s More

The National Park Service Website has a complete list of trails, up-to-date trail conditions, and information regarding the various campgrounds. As an outdoor enthusiast, I generally love being outdoors, but I’m rather partial to a hike that ends in a gorgeous view. My favorite aspect of the AllTrails website is that you can see pictures other hikers have taken, to better grasp the hard-earned view you’re hiking out for. 

As a note: whatever trail you choose, be sure to stay on the trail— no creating new short-cuts! Even though it seems small, if everyone trampled the meadows a little, the collective damage would be massive.

Packing your Day Pack  

Can’t crush your hike without your day pack! There’s nothing like being stoked for an awesome day hike, only to realize half-way in that you don’t need half of what you’re carrying. Even worse is when you realize you forgot something crucial! Due to the snowfall Mount Rainier National Park receives every year, this list would be more extensive for winter months. We have you covered for all your late spring, summer, and early fall hikes.

Jacket—  this is top of the list for a reason… mostly because it will be unnecessary for a majority of your hike. That being said, chances are, if you plan to spend any extended period of time at the peak, you will likely be glad to have it. Additionally, if there’s any chance of rain, it’s also not a bad idea to bring a rain jacket along with you as well. The weather can change quickly. Rain jackets aren’t heavy and they’re well worth it when the heavens open!

Camera — whether it’s a DSLR or an iPhone, the view is definitely something you’ll be glad to look back on later! 

Trail map — you can either download a trail map from the NPS website or grab one from the trailhead, but it’s always a good idea to have a map with you. The trails are well-kept and the signage clearly dictates which paths to follow for desired destinations. That being said, we are big ‘safety first, safety always’ gals, so it’s always a good idea to have a map, just in case you get lost! 

example of the trail map for the sunrise area trails

Snacks — our go-to hiking snacks are dried mango, fresh fruits (in mason jars so they don’t get smushed) & veggies. Who doesn’t love a couple handfuls of homemade trail mix?? There’s nothing like reaching the viewpoint and sitting down to take it all in, with a tasty treat.

Water — for an approximately 6 mile hike, we usually take 20-40 oz of water per person, depending on the day. This is not including the water bottles we keep in the car to drink from before and after the hike. We always like to ensure we have more than enough water to stay hydrated, without carrying around extra weight. 

Sunglasses — while sunnies are always a good idea for hiking, Mount Rainier has snow year-round, and snow tends to reflect the sunlight, sometimes making it feel even brighter out. 

Sunscreen — as you climb in elevation, the breeze can keep you cool and make you forget the sun is still beating down on you. Even if you sunscreen up before you depart, you may want to re-apply!

Headlamp — not necessary for shorter most daytime hike, but if you plan in hiking around sunrise or sunset, you’ll be glad to have a headlamp. While cellphones have flashlights that might suffice in a pinch, it’s safer and easier to hike with your light hands-free.

Chapstick — while this won’t necessarily make or break your hike, chances are you’ll be glad you have it. A chapstick with SPF is a bonus.

The 411 on Furry Friends 

Generally speaking, Mt. Rainier is a no dogs allowed park. The exception? The Pacific Crest Trail stretches along the west coast of the country and cuts through the park. As such, this is a technical caveat since dogs are allowed on the Pacific Crest Trail throughout its entirety. That being said, all other trails (including the ones above) and campgrounds do not permit any non-service animal pets. 

The best time of year to visit? Later than you might think. It all depends on the longevity of winter… or rather how cold the spring season is! We’ve gone hiking fourth of July weekend, and had to change plans on the fly due to snowy trails. Mid-to late summer and all throughout fall would be the best time to make an appearance.

written by Kayla

A literal life saving queen, Kayla Grace is an Army nurse in Tacoma, Washington. When she’s not fixing up tiny humans on the peds floor, she is likely to be found running, walking, or hiking outside— or crushing a home improvement project, as she has recently purchased her first home! Since moving to Washington, Kayla has maintained a plant-based diet— a feat largely unattainable by any other sister, but she makes it look *almost* possible with her I-can’t-believe-these-are-vegan chocolate chip cookies.


Categories
national parks travel

Everything You Need to Know About the Kenai Fjords

The Kenai Fjords National Park maintains a unique topography with its frigid water and flourishing forest, interwoven around millennia old ice and snow. The crown jewel of the park is the Harding Icefield, with over 30 glaciers stemming from this remnant ice sheet. These historic glaciers carved out fjords, leaving behind the deep, narrow inlets the park is named for. Here the ice age lingers at the intersection of cautious exploration and intentional preservation. With such diversity, there are many ways to gain an appreciation for the pristine, immense wilderness, so we detailed everything you need to know about the Kenai Fjords, to help make the most of your time.

Alaska is home to eight national parks, and the Kenai Fjords is arguably the most accessible park in the state, only two and a half hours away from Anchorage— Alaska’s largest city. Not only does the park itself have a worthy draw, but the Kenai Fjords are the beloved backyard of Seward, a popular fishing town on the Kenai Peninsula. Between the two, this pocket of Alaska is a must-visit for anyone keen to experience the beauty of pristine, immense wilderness!

Fast Facts About the kenai fjords National Park

Size:  607,805 acres

Visitors: 411,782 visitors (data from 2021)

Distance from Anchorage: 130 miles — 2.5 hour drive

Became a National Park: December 2nd, 1980

Most unique feature: the Harding Icefield — over 30 glaciers stem from this icefield!

While park stretches into a vast expanse, we did our best to explore as thoroughly as possible. From float planes to kayaks to good ole fashion boots, we set out to see everything there was to see. Below we have detailed your hike options, all of the various tours available in the area, and ways to ensure you catch a glimpse of the unique wildlife — as well as all the tips and tricks to ensure you have the best time.

Up, Up, and Away  

Nothing like catching a bird’s eye view! Due to the expansive nature of the park as well as the hardiness of the topography, a plane tour can be a fantastic way to experience the lay of the land, from a bird’s eye view. We were headed to the Seward area via Moose’s Pass, so we stopped by Scenic Mountain Air for a float plane tour. The hour-long jaunt explored the south-central Kenai Peninsula. From our vantage point, we were able to see the Harding Icefield, Chugach Mountains, endless lakes and waterfalls, as well as a handful of wildlife sightings. My favorite spot to see was Bear Glacier Lagoon and the many icebergs it houses.

If you’re looking for a flightseeing option a bit closer to Seward, Seward Air Tours is a small plane experience with eight different tour options to choose from. If you’re keen to chopper through the skies, Seward Helicopter Tours offers not only a flight tour but they also have an option to go dog sledding over a glacier. While we didn’t do this in the park, we did something similar near Girdwood at Punchbowl Glacier and can attest that it is so beyond cool. 

These Boots Were Made for Hiking 

Having already appreciated the park from above during our float plane tour, we were excited to explore with our boots on the ground. The hiking options in the park are limited to the Exit Glacier Overlook Trail and the Harding Icefield Trail. Basically you get to choose between very easy or very challenging.

Trekking out to the Harding Icefield is a 9.2 mile out and back trail that tackles over 3,600 feet of elevation. During the summer months there can be ice and snow on the trail, so be sure to wear appropriate footwear. Even in later summer or early fall months, consider bringing spikes if you plan to walk on the icefield once you arrive. This rugged trail is prime real estate for all kinds of wildlife sightings, so be sure to keep your eyes peeled! 

If you arrive at the park around 10am or 2pm, park rangers lead walking “tours” along the Exit Glacier Overlook trail. While the 2.2 miles of trail doesn’t take that long to hike, they provide additional commentary and insight regarding the park, evolution of the glacier, and local preservation. No advanced registration is needed, and there’s no cost associated with the walking educational opportunity. 

For travelers that live by their own set of rules, the trail is easily navigated independently and the views are just as spectacular! As you walk out to the glacier overlook viewpoint, you will notice low-profile makers with years on them. These denote where the glacier extended to at various points throughout history. It’s one thing to hear how our glaciers are melting but another to see the receding line for yourself. Regardless of whether you go with a group or explore solo, the Exit Glacier is humbling to experience. 

Whatever Floats Your Boat 

Exploration by land, by air, and next up: by sea! We went adventuring with Major Marine Tours and loved it. Their Kenai Fjords Wildlife tours run for four hours, six hours, seven and a half hours, or eight and a half hours. We opted for a four hour tour (mainly because we were going as a family and our dad doesn’t always fare well on boats). While the longer tours will dive deeper into the park, we felt four hours was a perfect amount of time to see glaciers, fjords, and an outstanding breadth of wildlife. Our favorites were the puffins, humpback whales, seals, and mischievous otters. It was so thrilling to see these guys out in the wild. 

What to expect? Upon entry on the boat, each group was assigned to a “home base” table, to store their things at and use as they pleased. In addition to the tables, there was ample space inside the boat as well as on the decks for people to observe as they pleased. And observe we did!! The captain was fabulous and any time we were near any sort of wildlife that may be of interest, he would linger (at an appropriate distance) to ensure everyone had an opportunity to see. They had snacks and drinks available for purchase, but you can also bring your own food and drink on board with you as well. 

Major Marine Tours boat in the dock: good to show you everything you need to know about the Kenai Fjords
Paddle Powered 

For a more immersive boating experience, hop in a kayak! If you’re not a big kayaker, it can certainly feel intimidating to be out in such a tiny boat; however, it is immensely serene to feel so small in the magnitude of nature’s magnitude. The interaction with nature is so much more intimate, with curious harbor seals popping their heads up a couple feet from your kayak– checking out what you’re up to. 

We embarked on this adventure through Miller’s Landing, and wholeheartedly recommend them! Full disclosure, we suited up for a dusk kayaking trip to Bridal Veil Waterfall, so technically we stayed within the confines of Resurrection Bay and didn’t quite make it into the national park waters; however, this was more than enough adventure for us. They do offer all kinds of full day kayaking trips for more committed paddlers. Regardless of your paddling destination, it is humbling to experience the fjord environment and wildlife in this way. 

The 30-Second Scoop on Seward 

The Kenai Fjords National Park Visitor Center is actually located in the heart of Seward, making it very centrally located; however, not where you might expect to find it. Be sure to stop in and chat with a park ranger, stamp your national park passport, and collect any park mementos. While it’s not the true visitor center, the Exit Glacier Nature Center is a visitor center-like building near the trails in the park, so it’s not completely wilderness out there!

If you’re feeling a bit peckish, you have loads of restaurants to choose from. The Lone Chicharron Taqueria is going to have some fantastic tacos, while Gold Rush Bistro boasts an impressive bowl of clam chowder. Sweet Darlings has chocolates and gelato that are guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth. If you’re looking to crack open a cold one, Seward Brewing Company is an awesome local craft brewery. 

Sampling different restaurants was easy because Seward is pretty compact. The main populus of the city stretches about a mile and a half long and is rather walkable. However, if you struggle with mobility impairments, Seward has a free shuttle to aid in transportation (and exploration!).

A majority of Alaska’s national parks are reachable only by bush plane and/or boat. Not only are the Kenai Fjords a breathtaking reflection of the wilderness Alaska is hailed for, but the accessibility of this park only adds to its charm. Any additional plane or boat trips taken once you arrive only add to the fullness of the experience.

If you’re eager to encounter more of Alaska’s astounding natural beauty, Denali National Park and Preserve is less than five hours outside of Anchorage, and boasts grandiose heights as the highest peak in North America. You won’t regret adding this mammoth park to your Alaskan bucket list. Happy travels!

written by Hannah 

Hannah has learned the hard way to be careful what you wish for— sometimes happily ever after lands you with a husband and puppy… in the Midwest. Despite leaving Florida to move to Wisconsin, Hannah maintains her bossy big sister role with regular phone calls to keep up with all the little sister shenanigans. Notoriously chatty with her patients as well, Hannah stays busy as a physical therapist, but loves spending weekends exploring newfound hikes.

Categories
national parks travel

Making the Most of Your Time at Voyageurs National Park 

Explore the boundary waters up at Voyageurs— Minnesota’s only national park! With over 218,000 acres, there are endless nooks and crannies in this forested wetland. The network of rivers, streams, and lakes account for approximately 40% of Voyageurs National Park, however, much of the remaining land is accessible only by water. The interconnected waterways create a mosaic for eager visitors to explore. Whether you’re keen for a day out on the water or intrigued by the Northern lights, here’s to making the most of your time at Voyageurs.

This is a perfect spot for a relaxing long weekend adventure, enjoying nature. From our favorite campsite to maximizing your chances of seeing the aurora borealis, we’ve got the scoop on this aquatic maze.

Enough Visitor Centers to Go Around

First stop? The visitor center! Voyageurs actually maintains three different visitor centers in distinct regions of the park. Rainy Lake is the farthest north and is the only visitor center open year-round. Kabetogama Lake and Ash River are both open seasonally, from May through September. Each center has its own boat launch, so the assorted locations help visitors access the various areas of the park with ease. Regardless which one you visit, be sure to get your national park passport stamped!

Whatever Floats Your Boat

Much of Voyageurs is either water or land only accessible by water. This means a boat is pretty essential to getting the full Voyageurs experience. From kayaks and canoes to pontoons and wakeboarding boats, you’ll see a variety of fun being had. We did a bit of a road trip adventure up to Voyageurs, and didn’t want to deal with a trailer when we were exploring some of the more touristy cities, so we just strapped a canoe to the roof of the car! 

Perhaps you’d rather not deal with the hassle of bringing your boat along or maybe you’re keen to have someone else drive the boat– regardless, you have some options. If you’re interested in learning some fun facts while you float, the national park service offers a few different tours to help everyone explore. Otherwise, a comprehensive list of local guides and rentals can be found here. 

Hiking 

While Voyageurs isn’t hailed as a hiking destination, there’s a couple of hikes worth exploring.  If you’re up near Rainy Lake, the Oberholtzer Trail is an easy, under two mile hike that will allow you to experience nature from a different perspective. Closer to the Ash River Visitor Center, you can wander through three miles of aquatic ecosystem views on the Blind Ash Bay Trail. These hiking trails are a great way to enjoy a bit of solitude as well as some potential birdwatching if you’re lucky! No doggos allowed on the trail though, so you’ll have to rock this walk by yourself or with some human pals. 

Unique Sights

Each pocket of the park has its own little adventure that awaits. Just north of the Rainy Lake Visitor Center, you’ll find Little American Island. You can take a self-guided tour and see mentos of an old mining era. About five miles north of the Kabetogama Lake Visitor Center and only accessible by water, you will find the Ellsworth Rock Gardens. Originally created by Jack Ellsworth, the garden is a collection of unique rock sculptures and formations, surrounded by thousands of colorful blossoms.

Most easily accessible by the Ash River Visitor Center, Kettle Falls is just a hop, skip, and a jump from the Canadian border. This part of the park is home to a historic hotel. Their motto is “Tough place to get to….. But well worth it once you get there!”

Camping 

Voyageurs is pretty unique in that all campsites are accessible exclusively by watercraft. You can make your camping reservation online, which is not only convenient but also a fab way to scope out all the various sites. Voyageurs doesn’t have a campground so much as it has loads of unique individual campsites. We stayed at Sphunge Island West, which is a little over a mile and a half from Kabetogama Lake Visitor Center.

If you don’t have a motorized boat and plan on canoeing, this is a perfect site as it’s a very reasonable distance to traverse with all of your camping stuff on board. There was only one other campsite on the island, and with no overland path to reach them, you really do feel like you have a little lake island to yourself. Most importantly, our campsite’s beach faced north, so we had a perfect view of the northern lights in the evening. Not all campsites are so ideally located, so be sure to investigate your campsite thoroughly before making any final decisions. As a bonus, pets were permitted at this campsite, so we were able to bring our dog! 

As a note: While canoe voyages greater than 1.5 miles are beyond feasible, it’s worth noting, there are other motorized boats out tubing and zooming around. When we were in the ‘open bay area’ if you will, it made me grateful we picked something as close as we did. It would have been doable, but I would have been a bit nervous to embark on a much longer canoe trip, with all our backpacks and camping stuff in the boat. 

Northern Lights

Voyageurs is certainly home to serene, natural beauty; however, if you have spent any amount of time adventuring around on lakes before, you might be looking for the extra-special-something to make this experience unique. While it’s impossible to guarantee, visiting Voyageurs when there’s a high likelihood of the aurora borealis making an appearance will take your usual lake-life experience to an ethereal level. 

The University of Alaska in Fairbanks has an aurora forecast website that monitors geomagnetic activity to provide predictions of when the northern lights are most likely to make their appearance. We found this to be rather beneficial as we were planning our trip. When we arrived, we stopped at the visitor center and spoke with the park ranger, and she recommended the My Aurora Forecast app as a way to more closely monitor your likelihood of seeing the lights, in real time. It gives you a pretty accurate prediction for when you might get some magical dancing light action. 

making the most of your time at Voyageurs by staying up for the northen lights

For us, watching the Northern lights dance across the sky was the ultimate highlight of the trip. While the lights tend to be more common to see in the winter months, we visited in early September and were treated to a wondrous light show. Happy travels and best of luck chasing down the magical aurora borealis!

written by Hannah 

Hannah has learned the hard way to be careful what you wish for— sometimes happily ever after lands you with a husband and puppy… in the Midwest.  Despite leaving Florida to move to Wisconsin,  Hannah maintains her bossy big sister role with regular phone calls to keep up with all the little sister shenanigans. Notoriously chatty with her patients as well, Hannah stays busy as a physical therapist, but loves spending weekends exploring newfound hikes.

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national parks travel

Eight Unique Adventures To Have in Denali National Park 

Denali National Park and Preserve is home to not only the highest peak in North America but abundant wildlife as well. If you visit in the summer, the nearly endless daylight provides ample opportunity to maximize your exploration time. When you’re heading to a park as massive as Denali, it can be daunting to plan your trip. Whether you’re staying for a day or a week, we’ve compiled a list of unique adventures to have, to make the most of your time in Denali National Park.

While the national park system certainly caters to the outdoorsy, adventurers of any tenacity can enjoy the beauty of the park. From breath-taking hikes to picturesque plane rides and all the sled dogs in between, you won’t regret visiting this humbling reflection of nature’s boundless might.

Fast Facts About Denali National Park

Size:  6.1 million acres

Visitors: 427,562 (data from 2022)

Distance from Anchorage: 240 miles — 4 hour drive

Became a National Park: February 26th, 1917

Most unique feature: Mount Denali reaches up 20,310 ft, making it the highest peak in North America!

As with any national park, nature’s beauty shows off in a surreal way. Below we have detailed eight unique activities to allow you a robust Denali experience. Denali National Park is a perfect embodiment of the stark, Final Frontier allure Alaska is known for. Here’s to happy adventures!

1. Hike Horseshoe Lake Trail

Depending on where you’re departing from, getting to Denali can be a way. If you’ve spent a couple hours in the car, and are looking for a nice hike to stretch your legs out, the Horseshoe Lake Trail is a perfect option. It’s an awesome hike for everyone in the family to get out and enjoy nature. 

Two miles goes by quickly, with all of the sweeping views. On this particular hike, we crossed paths with another group that saw three moose traipsing through. While we missed seeing them on our Hourseshoe jaunt, we ended up seeing at least one moose every day we were in the park and the surrounding Healy area!

2. Conquer the Mount Healy Overlook

The Mount Healy Overlook Trail is a perfect hike to start the day with– the early bird gets the worm, and the early risers get an empty trail! We were after it by 7am, and didn’t see anyone else out on the trail until we were heading back down the mountain! The 7 miles and over 2,700 feet of elevation was an energizing kick in the pants. Once we made it to the top, it was hard to want to head back. Looking out at the horizon was as beautiful as it was peaceful.

While any hiker could certainly crush this route, the elevation and length kept some of the less outdoorsy members of our family away. Not a terribly technical hike but just lengthy… and the elevation a little cumbersome if you’re from the flatlands of Florida!

3. Grab a Bite at Morino Grill

When you’ve tuckered yourself out and need a bite, be sure to stop by the Morino Grill. It’s the only restaurant in the park, so they run the monopoly on sustenance for hungry hikers. The menu has all the hearty staples, so there’s bound to be something to hit the spot– especially since they maintain gluten free and vegan options.

It’s conveniently located next door to the Visitor Center, so it’s easy to get your national park passport stamped and snag any park mentos. Alaska’s tourism runs year-round, but the large majority of visitors arrive over the summer, so the Morino Grill is closed through the winter season.

4. Explore Denali from a Bird’s Eye View

Denali National Park and preserve stretches out to cover over six million acres. With such a vast magnitude, it’s impossible to see everything by foot. To expand your exploratory reach, a flightseeing tour can take you to new heights! This kind of aviation adventure was a humbling way to observe the magnitude of the Alaskan mountain range, see Denali up close, and appreciate the complete isolation of the Alaskan wilderness. While it’s guaranteed to be a breathtaking view regardless of what plane or helicopter you’re in, we explored with Talkeetna Air and could not recommend them more!

We actually landed on a glacier and were able to appreciate the immense landscape from the ground up. It is beyond humbling to realize how truly isolated one can be in the snowy Alaskan range– even in summer. 

5. Visit the Denali Sled Dogs

Denali National Park remains steeped in its traditional roots and has maintained their pack of sled dogs since 1922. The temperature of the winter can make machinery unreliable, but the dogs thrive in the cold. They have the intuition a snowmobile lacks, which becomes life-saving in a white out or when avoiding dangerous ice. You can meet these hard working boys and girls at the kennels, just under two miles from the Visitor’s Center. Not only are there puppies to meet, but in the summer, you can pretend to drive a sled and learn more about the dog sledding culture. 

6. Mush in the Park

While the park dogs will take your for a ride in the summer, they’re busy working in the winter time, so if you want a mushing experience, tracking down Denali Dogsled Expeditions is a must! They’re the only company that currently is permitted to offer dogsledding tours inside the park premises.

As we visited in the summer, this wasn’t an option, but we did have the opportunity to dogsled elsewhere. We can attest that it’s big cool to be pulled through the snow by eight very eager dogs.

7. Spend a Night Under the Stars

Looking for a fully immersive experience? Go camping! Denali doesn’t house a lodge with sleeping accommodations for guests, so if you’re looking to spend the night in the park, you better pack a tent! 

There’s six campgrounds to choose from, with a whole world of backcountry camping available as well. The Riley Creek Campground is the closest to the entrance of the park and houses a shower and laundry facility— which can be rather nice at the end of a long day. As an additional bonus, the Riley Creek Mercantile is right next to the campground. It maintains a supply of items such as water bottles, bear spray, sunscreen, and such. They also sell sandwiches and some pre-packaged food if you’re in a pinch.

Some campsites can be booked in advance while others are first come, first serve only. You can find out more information about each campground here, to ensure you arrive prepared.

8. Bus or Bust!
Intra-Park Transit

There’s only one road through Denali National Park, so in order to mitigate traffic and parking snafus, there are free busses that transport visitors about 15 miles into the park, with their final stop at Savage River. If you’re keen to explore a bit further into the park, there’s an alternate bus options that will take you the rest of the 92 miles along Denali Park Road. This bus system has a nominal fee, depending on how far you plan to go. Both of these options are non-narrated bus rides, existing exclusively for transportation needs. As such, riders are free to disembark and re-board different buses as they please.

Narrated Tours

There’s a bus ride for everyone! For anyone less keen on transportation to a remote hike and more interested in a cultural history lesson, there’s a trained naturalist waiting for you. These tours run anywhere from 4 hours to 13 hours, depending on how deep into the park you’re looking to adventure. These bus options can be thought of as more of a paid tour— i.e. it will not stop at campgrounds and is not designed to ridden in a hop on/hop off style.

The Denali Park Road is 92 miles long, but landscape anomalies can close the road down, so be sure to check conditions out before you go.

two sisters in front of the Denali National Park and Preserve sign with eight unique adventures to be had in the park

Denali National Park and Preserve boasts some outstanding feats of nature, and we had such fun exploring the little slice we did. We stayed in this region for two nights and felt it was a perfect amount of time to explore the park and surrounding area. Our stop in Denali was part of a two-week road trip, exploring a beautiful sliver of the gargantuan state of Alaska. Check out the full itinerary here. Happy travels!

written by Hannah 

Hannah has learned the hard way to be careful what you wish for— sometimes happily ever after lands you with a husband and puppy… in the Midwest.  Despite leaving Florida to move to Wisconsin,  Hannah maintains her bossy big sister role with regular phone calls to keep up with all the little sister shenanigans. Notoriously chatty with her patients as well, Hannah stays busy as a physical therapist, but loves spending weekends exploring newfound hikes.

Categories
national parks travel

One Day in Arches: Best Hikes and Sights to See

Arches National Park is home to over 2,000 arches as well as a myriad of other astounding feats of nature. Conveniently placed near Moab, outdoor enthusiasts of all backgrounds find themselves drawn to explore the curious rock formations. Whether you’re planning an Arches-only trip or hitting up all the parks in Utah, you won’t regret adventuring to Moab and discovering the wild west that Arches showcases with such grandeur. One day in Arches will leave you in awe of all there is to see and humbled by the enchanting wilderness.

Not only are the various arrays of arches just incredible to see and stand under, but the views from the park, with the La Sal mountains in the backdrop, are astounding as well. Arches National Park is an incredible testament to the power and simple beauty of nature.

Fast Facts About Arches National Park

Size:  76,519 acres 

Visitors: 1,806,865 (data from 2021)

Highest elevation: 5,653 feet at Elephant Butte

Distance from Moab: 13 miles — 20 minutes

Distance from Salt Lake City Airport: 240 miles — 4 hour drive

National Park Initiation: November 12th, 1971

Arches is minutes away from Moab— an outdoor recreation mecca, known for zealous exploration adventures. It would be easy to spend a week in Moab, immersing yourself in the unique topography of the nearby state and national parks. That being said, not every trip gets to be as endlessly long as we’d like. It’s definitely possible to see the top highlights of Arches in a day!

We tend to enjoy an action-packed day, so the ideal itinerary might vary from person to person. Fitness level and time of year are going to be factors that dictate just how long you should allot for this fantastic park. Below we have detailed how to ensure you are allowed into the park, our favorite hikes, the best spots to stargaze, and the scoop on camping in the park— as well as a handful of tips and tricks to ensure you have the best time.

Securing Your Timed Entry 

Where to start? Let’s make sure you make it in the door! From 2009 to 2019, visitation to Arches grew over 66 percent, with most people arriving during the same peak hours each day. Due to this influx, the park has integrated an initiative to spread arrivals out— from 7am to 4pm. This timed entry is in effect April 1 through July 6 and August 28 through October 31, 2025. The aim of the timed entry program is not to reduce the quantity of individuals visiting the park but to more evenly disperse their arrival throughout the day. 

What exactly does timed entry mean? Prospective park visitors can reserve a 1 hour slot in which they will enter the park. It is important to arrive at the park within your window otherwise your entry may be denied. Taking a last minute trip and worried you won’t be able to get in? Additional tickets are made available at 6pm MDT/MST the calendar day prior. If you are having technical difficulties and are unable to secure any timed entry tickets, your other option would be arriving at the park before 6am or after 5pm.

This differs from the $30/vehicle entrance fee everyone pays for admission into the park. The entry fee is enforced year-round as it’s important for preserving and maintaining the park. The timed entry reservation system is completely different! Its sole purpose being to control the influx of people into the park. This is an online reservation system, so there is a $2 fee. You can make your ticketed entry reservations here.

Individuals with camping, backcountry, Fiery Furnace, or special use permits do NOT need to secure a timed entry reservation. Nor do those with concessions contracts, commercial use authorizations, or academic fee waivers. Tribal visits are also exempt.

Pack a Snack

There is no lodge or restaurant in Arches, so be sure to bring along all the snacks and meals you might need. Arches’ close proximity to Moab makes tracking down sustenance easy. Grocery stores like City Market are the perfect way to make sure you have everything you need before embarking on your adventure. When you’re done exploring, nothing hits the spot like a cold treat on a hot day. There’s a handful of tasty-looking shops, but we had the best post-hike treat at Moab Frozen Yogurt— a delightful little dessert desert oasis!

Catch Some Zzzzz’s  

How to make the most of your day? Start by already being in the park! There’s no lodge in Arches, so if you want to sleep in Arches, you better pack your camping gear! Devils Garden Campground is the only campground in Arches National Park. As such, its busy season is quite busy, and the 51 campsites go like hotcakes. Campsites can be reserved up to six month in advance between March 1 and October 31. In the low season, campsites are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. As a bonus— when you have a camping reservation for a given night, you do NOT have to worry about securing a timed entry pass for the day!

If you’re not much for camping, there are loads of different hotel accommodations in Moab— which could not be a more convenient location for accessing Arches.

As a note: Campsites go like HOTCAKES!!! Campgrounds will be fully booked up weeks (if not months) in advance, but there’s hope for last minute campers. Campflare is an app that will let you know when a campsite in a given campground becomes available. Be prepared to act fast though because things do not stay vacant long! 

◁ ・An Action-Packed Day ・▷

With over 2,000 natural sandstone arches and dramatically memorable vistas, one day at Arches will be full of adventure and breathtaking scenery. The park’s compact size and efficient road system makes it easy to navigate between trailheads and viewpoints. Get ready to start your day early and stay up late… the star gazing in Arches is almost as outstanding as the other-worldly landscape.

Delicate Arch

The Delicate Arch hike is arguably one of the most popular hikes in the park, but for good reason. While the park is home to a myriad of arches, Delicate Arch is massively impressive and the La Sal Mountains in the backdrop make it beyond picturesque. My favorite moment in the park was standing under Delicate Arch, looking out at the mountains. The arch is larger than you might initially assume— you can hardly notice me underneath! If you only have time for one hike, this should be it.

Getting an early start on the day helps to avoid some of the trail congestion and gobs of people at the viewpoint.

Length: 3.2 miles

Elevation gain: 629ft

large arch, with mountains in the backdrop— if you only have one day in Arches the delicate arch hike is a must
Fiery Furnace Viewpoint

This viewpoint gets its name as end-of0the-day, low-angle sunset light gives the rock face a furnace-like glow. Even in the bright light of morning, the natural labyrinth of sandstone walls and eroded passages makes for a unique view. It’s a peaceful spot to eat a snack, give your legs a break, and just take in nature’s beauty.

photo via nps.gov

If you plan to spend a couple days in the park, you can actually hike through the Fiery Furnace, either on a ranger-led tour or with a special use permit.

Devil’s Garden Hike

The Devil’s Garden trail or Double O Trail is quite the multi-destination hike as it leads to an array of different arches. These paths both go all the way down to the Double O Arch, passing by the Dark Arch, Landscape Arch, and Navajo Arch along the way. The viewpoints and arches were certainly beautiful, but this hike was worth doing just for the views of the horizon. There’s also some fun climbing and scrambling to be had as well. 

discovering the wild west in Arches on the Devils Garden trail with the La Sal mountains in the background

Taking the most direct route out and back to the Double O Arch is 4.2 miles, but the full Devil’s Garden trail loop takes you through new terrain on the way back and clocks in at just under 8 miles. If you only have one day in the park, we recommend the more direct out and back path. The longer loop is certainly picturesque, but you get the general ambiance and scenery in the shorter out and back version. Depending on time of year, this also helps attenuate excess time out in the sun on an exposed trail. Very little sacrifice, while helping make the most of your day!

Length: 4.2+ miles

Elevation gain: 682+ ft

It cannot be said enough, be sure you pack yourself enough water. Due to the long, unshaded nature of this trail, going earlier in the day is especially advisable, but if you are hiking in the afternoon, ensure you are prepared.  

Panorama Point

Panorama Point is another fabulous viewpoint. If you waited until after your second hike to enjoy a late lunch, this is the perfect spot for it! A sandwich almost assuredly tastes better when it’s being enjoyed in the midst of a 360-degree sweeping view. One of the best spots to take in the park and surrounding high desert grandeur.

photo via nps.gov
Visitor center

The Visitor Center is located right by the entrance to the park. Depending on when you arrive, it may not be open yet, but it’s worth stopping by before you leave. Whether you’re looking to get your passport book stamped, checking out swag in the bookstore, or hunting down a park ranger to learn exactly how an arch comes to be, the visitor center has a little something for everyone.

photo via nps.gov
Out & Back

A full day in the park can be skewed according to the time of year you visit. The late spring, summer, and early fall months are the months of highest visitation but this is usually accompanied by warm temperatures during the day. If you aim for an early start and you are likely to be done with most of the above itinerary between 2-4pm. That will give you the opportunity to go rise off, rest for a bit, grab dinner, and make it back to see the stars.

star light, star bright

On a clear night, you can see the stars almost anywhere in the park. Areas off the main road prevent the headlights or people coming and going affecting your night vision and photographs. The farther north you drive into the park, the darker the sky will be. We initially drove to the Petrified Dunes Viewpoint but found the light pollution from Moab to be disruptive, so we hopped in the car and drove a bit farther to the Balance Rock picnic area.

While these points aren’t terribly far from one another, it made a huge difference in visibility. The best spots to stargaze are at Balance Rock, just past Balance Rock at either the Windows section or the Garden of Eden, and at Panorama Point. 

If you have a flashlight or headlamp with a red light setting, bring it along! White lights can be harmful to your night vision, but the red lights more gentle. This is also respectful to any photographers out trying to capture pictures of the stars. Due to the long exposure necessary to photograph the stars, extraneous white light can be disruptive. If you have any star identification apps, they may be able to help you find constellations as well as the Milky Way.

As a note, Canyonlands National Park is about 45 minutes away from Moab, and therefore the light pollution of Moab. If you are a night owl with the evening flexibility, the stars will be even more amazing at its gold-tier International Dark Sky status.

Bonus: How are Arches Made? 

To be considered one of the park’s 2,000+ official stone arches, an opening of at least three feet must exist. This hole can stretch in any one direction, and there’s no requirement for width. For this reason, many of the arches in the park are so narrow, you might walk right past them as though it’s just a small hole in a stone. 

The rock that makes up much of Arches is different layers of sandstone. Water takes advantage of cracks in rock surfaces and wears the sandstone down into fins. The park only receives 8-10 inches of precipitation per year. This doesn’t sound like much, but if the park were to receive too much more rain, the sandstone would potentially erode so quickly that the arches wouldn’t be able to form. The rain and snow that fall at Arches is a perfect quantity to erode the underlying rock at a sustainable pace to create the gorgeous sandstone arches. 

The infographic pictures below are from the Arches Visitor Guide, which provides a more thorough explanation. If you have any additional questions about arches or any other geological features, be sure to ask a park ranger. We happened upon one whilst out on the Devils Garden trail, and found she was a wealth of information regarding various questions we had accumulated along our hike. 

parting thoughts

While all national parks are home to outstanding feats of nature, Arches is perhaps the most uniquely mysterious. While science has a perfectly logical explanation as to how arches are formed, it still feels like nothing short of a miracle to stand under Delicate Arch, looking up. We hope you have a chance to make it out west and enjoy your action-packed one day in Arches National Park.

Arches is one of five national parks in Utah. If you are planning a multi-park road trip, you don’t want to miss Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, or Canyonlands!

written by Hannah 

Hannah traded the warm beaches of southwest FL for the outdoor adventure locale that is Bend, OR. Despite the distance, Hannah maintains her bossy big sister role with regular phone calls to keep up with all the little sister shenanigans. Notoriously chatty with her patients as well, Hannah stays busy as a physical therapist, but loves making time to explore newfound hikes. These days she has some extra pack weight; however, Xavier is notorious for being unimpressed by sweeping vistas.

Categories
national parks travel

How to Spend 2 Unforgettable Days in Zion National Park

Zion was Utah’s first national park, and its luster has endured as it continues to be the most visited park in Utah as well as one of the most visited parks in the national parks system, with over 5 million visits each year. This 148,016 acre park has range, with abounding hikes for all difficulty levels as well as canyoneering, rafting, and rock climbing. Whether you’re planning a Zion-only trip or hitting up all the parks in Utah, you won’t regret spending two unforgettable days exploring the diverse topography and wilderness that make this vast park the crown jewel of Utah’s illustrious parks department.

Not only is the canyon astounding, but there are so many adventures to be had! There’s not many guarantees in life, but Zion Canyon is almost assuredly guaranteed to knock your socks off and leave you saying “WOAH“. How long do you need to take it all in? It depends on how full you want your days! Two days is enough to explore the park and leave feeling like you have an appreciation for the diverse wonders of Zion. Those will be two full days though!!!

Fast Facts About Zion National Park

Size:  232 square miles

Visitors: 5,039,835 visitors annually (data from 2021)

Highest elevation: 8,726 feet — Horse Ranch Mountain peak

Distance from St. George Airport: 45 miles — 1 hour drive 

Distance from Las Vegas Airport: 170 miles — 3 hour drive

National Park Initiation: November 19th, 1919 by President Woodrow Wilson 

Zion is truly one of our favorite national parks. You can see pictures and have some appreciation for the magnitude, but there’s nothing quite like going and experiencing it for yourself. While all land protected by the National Park Service is important and beautiful in its own way, some parks are just more engaging to visit than others. Sometimes spending just an afternoon wandering around is enough to wet your beak and feel as though you saw the gist. That will not be enough at Zion!!!

Below we have detailed all of our favorite hikes, where to grab a bite, how-to’s for navigating transportation, where to bunk down, and beautiful drives— as well as all the tips and tricks that will ensure you have the best time.

When to Visit

Best time to visit is approximately from the end of May through June and September into early November. The weather gets so hot in July and August, it becomes hard to maximize your outside time. If you visit too early into the spring, you might not be able to do one of the most amazing hikes, the Narrows, as melting snow increases the flow rate through the canyon making it unsafe for visitors. There’s certainly beauty to visiting in the dead of winter, it just makes for a completely different experience!

We visited Zion at the end of May and felt it was the perfect time of year to visit! All the hikes were open and weather was as perfect as it could be!

Packing Essentials
  • water bottle — make sure you fill it before every hike!!
  • snacks — if you’re not used to heat and elevation changes, it can fatigue you even more quickly. it’s never a bad idea to have a little extra sustenance… plus who doesn’t enjoy a little treat as they take in the views??
  • hiking backpack — an 8-15L hiking backpack is usually pretty lightweight and it’s a nice not to worry about carrying your water bottle, phone, and snacks
  • trekking poles — a walking stick or trekking poles are never a bad idea. These are beneficial for a multitude of hikes, especially if you would consider yourself a little on the de-trained side. even for fit individuals, some of the elevation climbs can be a kick in the pants!
  • sunscreen — sun protection is important!
  • hat — some of the trails have very minimal shade, so it’s never a bad idea to bring a little of your own
  • Layers, layers, layers — despite hot temperatures during the day, the early mornings and evenings can still be quite chilly– plus the temperature can vary by elevation or lack of sun exposure (i.e. deep in a canyon)
  • waterproof backpack (optional) — if you own one, bring it! one of the must-do hikes is pretty water immersive, so having a waterproof backpack is nice. alternatively, you could always put anything you don’t want soaked in a ziplock or drybag
  • canyoneering boots (optional) — these are recommended for one of the planned hikes. there’s options to rent a pair if you don’t own them. alternatively you can get your hiking boots or trail runners soaked— you will just want to ensure you’re able to have them dry by the next day!
The Shuttle Scuttle 

To minimize traffic through the park in busy months a free shuttle services run from March to November both in the park itself and in the adjacent town of Springdale. Both shuttles have nine stops. The shuttle in the park takes visitors to various areas in the park itself, while the Springdale shuttle transports people staying or parking in town up to the park entrance.

The Springdale shuttle service is more necessary than one might think due to parking in Zion typically being full by 8-9am. In the months the shuttles are running, Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is closed to private vehicles, so using the shuttle system is the fastest way to maneuver through the park– unless you’re keen to rent a bike! There are a plethora of shuttles running, so one is never waiting too long for their ride. No tickets are issued. People simply fill the buses on a first come first serve basis.

Staying hydrated throughout the day is incredibly important. Water-bottle refilling stations can be found at Zion Canyon Line shuttle stops 1,2,5,6, and 9. 

Catching Some Zzzzzzs

There are loads of accommodation options when you’re visiting Zion because Springdale is close enough that it makes for a convenient base camp. The only thing more convenient? Staying in the park! In-park accommodations tend to either be very economical (camping) or a little on the spendier side (lodge living). Either way you have a few options to choose from— you can explore them below. It’s worth noting, both camping and the lodges will fill up quickly. If you know this is where you want to stay, book sooner rather than later!

Watchman Campground

Watchman Campground is only a ¼ mile away from the South Entrance of the park. While tent and electric campsites are available year-round, group campsites are only available from March to November. Due to Zion’s illustrious draw, campsites fill up quickly and this campground requires reservations year-round. Mark your calendar if you’re keen to camp here because campsites become available six months in advance… and they will go fast! 

South Campground

South Campground is similarly convenient in location, only a ½ mile from the South Entrance of the park. Available March through October, tent, dry RV, and group campsites are available by reservation. Making a reservation is important as this campground is routinely full. Taking a more spontaneous trip? These campsites become available for reservation 14 days in advance, so even if the Watchman campground is full months out, it’s possible to snag a gorgeous, centrally located campsite.

Both of these campgrounds are alongside the Virgin River. Be sure to stop by the Visitor Center upon arrival to check the water quality as bacteria blooms can be toxic.

Zion Lodge 

The Zion Lodge is located in the middle of the park, placing guests in the heart of the excitement. The longstanding lodge can be found on the National Register of Historic Places as it was built in the 1920s and has withstood the test of time… and fire! Abounding in historical character, the Zion Lodge offers 76 rooms, six suites, and 40 cabins for visitors to choose from. We loved the historic character of our little cabin abode.

A huge perk of staying at the Zion Lodge is that you are permitted to drive on Zion Canyon Scenic Drive up to the Lodge (a restricted area to all other park visitors late spring through fall). This access is allotted via a code, which must be provided for gate entry. Why does this matter? If your Lodge reservation check-in is Monday at 4pm, but you wanted to arrive at the park and hike before your check-in time, you are able to park your car (for free) at the Lodge for that entire day. It is also super convenient to be able to come and go from the park as you please without reliance on the shuttle!

◁ DAY 1 ▷

If you’re going to Zion, crushing a few hikes is a must. The sandstone cliffs are as exhilarating to hike as they are gorgeous to observe. With over 90 miles of trails available to explore, the opportunities for exploration are endless. The first day will primarily be focused on hikes, so pack your good hiking socks and get excited!

Angels Landing 

Starting your day on a high note… literally! While views abound throughout the park, there are a few hikes Zion is renowned for. The first of which is Angel’s Landing. This steep hike was once thought to be inaccessible to humans, hence its name. In the time since, it has become a well worn path, with chains for anxious hikers to hold onto as they make their accent. 

Before you make it to the chains, you have to get through the wiggles— a series of switchbacks not toooo far before the viewpoint you hit before you make the climb up the chains.

Due to this trail’s popularity, crowding started to become an issue, so the park launched a lottery permit system for interested visitors to throw their hat in the ring. If you’re planning your trip in advance, this is something you will want to look into because the lottery system operates on windows. For example, if you plan to visit between March 1st – May 31st, the lottery is open January 1st – January 20th.

If you are one of the lucky ones in the lottery, try to snag one of the early morning time slots. Clocking in at a little under 2,000 ft of elevation, with varying amounts of exposure, this is not a hike I would be keen to start at 1pm.

For those that don’t win it big in the lottery, hiking to the Scout Lookout via West Rim Trail provides a pretty comparable view. If you are hiking all the way up to Angel’s Landing, you must start the hike in your given time window. For those hiking to Scout’s Lookout, we recommend getting an early start— especially if you are visiting in the summer months.

Lodge Lunch

The lodge is centrally located in the park at shuttle stop 5, but it’s also a pretty easy walk from the Angel’s Landing trailhead. The Red Rock Grill can be found within the lodge, and it makes for a perfect spot to rest your weary legs while you chow down, with a variety of delicious plate options. We both devoured 1/2 pound burgers after hiking Angel’s Landing, and I can honestly say a burger has never tasted better!

As another option, the Castle Dome Cafe serves coffee and light breakfast bites in the morning as well as burgers and hot dogs and french fries throughout the afternoon. Some local microbrews can be found in the beer cart on the cafe’s patio. It’s a breezy spot to hang out, or you can grab food to go and eat it out on the green in front of the lodge.

Watchman Trail 

After a little rest and recovery, it’s time for another hike! Easy to access from the Visitor Center, the Watchman Trail is an excellent afternoon hike. The overlook at the top boasts 360 degree views, including Temples and Towers, the lower Zion Canyon, and Watchman Peak. The proximity to the Visitor Center is convenient to ensure bladders are empty and water bottles are full before departing. This trail has zero shade, which makes it a perfect choice for a late afternoon hike. As an alternative, the sweeping views of the canyon, make The Watchman an awesome sunset spot as well.

Zion Canyon Village

Just outside the entrance to the park, you will find the Zion Canyon Village. The Zion Canyon Brew Pub has both a restaurant as well as a beer garden area for weary hikers to rest their bones. This makes for a perfect spot to go grab a beer and rest a bit after a day full of hiking!

Just around the corner, Happy Camper Market is a small scale grocery store. They also have a wide array of sports drinks if you need a little post-hike hydration. We do recommend swinging by to grab a couple pre-made sandwiches— only if your have a way to keep them cold! The hike for day 2 stretches on 8-10 miles, so it’s recommended to pack a lunch. Grabbing it the night before just makes it even easier to get out early and hit the ground running in the morning!

◁ Day 2 ▷

Just when you think the views can’t get more astounding, it’s time to embark on a whole new round of jaw-dropping canyon views. Today’s highlights take you a bit deeper into the park, so get ready for some outdoor fun!

The Narrows

Arguably Zion’s most unique and iconic hike, the Narrows is an adventurous trek through the most narrow section of Zion Canyon. It feels surreal to hike through the gorge, with sandstone walls stretching up thousands of feet, but what makes this hike even more one-of-a-kind is that over half the trek is spent walking– or rather wading– through the Virgin River. In the spring, the melting snow can make the water flowing through the canyon too dangerous for hikers to endeavor, so be sure to check the flow rate to get an idea of the feasibility of going. The Narrows closes down if the river’s flow rate exceeds 150 cubic feet per second (CFS). 

OOTD

A special outfit for a hike? Think less about fashion and more about functionality! The wet and wild nature of this hike makes attire a bit different than your morning hike.

Depending on the time of year you might be able to get away with wearing your hiking boots, trail runners, or even Chacos in the river, but canyoneering boots are the shoe of choice for extra stability. Also remember that if you go hiking in a pair of boots, you will likely want/need to ensure they are dry before you plan you use them again or pack them.

Equipment rentals, such as Zion Outfitter, will provide canyoneering boots, neoprene socks, a wooden walking stick, and dry pants (as necessary). If you are considering doing any substantial portion of the water-trek, we do recommend either packing or renting this gear as it can make or break your experience. 

If you have trekking poles and the river isn’t predicted to have tooo high a flow rate, this can work as a suitable alternative to the rented wooden walking stick, BUT, it’s worth noting, the wooden walking sticks are sturdier. You will likely see at least one person take an unexpected dunk in the water… hopefully it’s not you!

Zion Outfitter is in the Canyon Village area, just outside the park. They are pretty flexible and will let you pick up your equipment rental the evening before if you’re hoping to get out early the day of your hike!

Hike it Out

Most park visitors hike the Narrows bottom-up, and this does not require a permit. Hiking from the bottom up means starting at Temple of Sinawava (shuttle stop #9) and hiking as far as Big Spring. The beauty of the bottom-up hike is that there is no specific viewpoint you are hiking to, because hiking through the canyon itself is the view. This means you could spend an hour hiking or you could spend all day! A true choose-you-own-adventure kind of hike. 

An early start to the day is advisable. Due to the popularity of this hike, it will get crowded. The silver lining is that even in the middle of the day, the farther you hike into the canyon, the less people you will see.

map via www.zionguru.com

We made it to right around where Wall Street end before we decided to turn around. On our way back, we detoured down towards Veiled Falls. We definitely got wet, but it was such an awesome day of trekking, exploring, and climbing around.

Be sure to check the weather before you go hiking– especially if you plan to hike a slot canyon, like the Narrows. Even little rain can be dangerous because water levels rise exponentially faster, making flash flooding a real risk. The National Weather Service monitors ten park areas in southern Utah for likelihood of flash flooding and issues each one a flash flood potential rating. Checking for likelihood of flooding as well as keeping an eye on imminent weather is super easy to do, and just might save your life! 

Taking It Low & Slow

Time to give your legs a break! Many of Zion’s most popular hikes can be found along Zion Canyon Scenic Drive; however, this section of the park only makes up a portion of the national park. Directly after crossing over the Canyon Junction Bridge a left turn will lead to the limited access scenic drive; however, if you continue straight, the road becomes Zion Park Boulevard also known as the Mount Carmel Highway. This winding road leads to some absolutely breathtaking views of the canyon.

After a long (but fun!!) morning and afternoon hiking adventure, the slower pace of a beautiful drive is a most relaxing way to finish the day.

As an alternate option, the Lodge also offers narrated tram ride tours late spring through fall. These tours traverse Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, showcasing keystone areas of the park with a colorful commentary throughout. As a note, this tram ride differs from the free shuttle rides.

If you’re legs are still feeling strong and you’re more interested in pedaling around, bikes are available to rent mid-March through November. Safety first, safety always! When you rent a bike, it will also include a helmet, safety vest, and bike lock. Additionally, all bikes are conveniently equipped with a front basket, safety lights, and a bell, so you will be prepared for all situations! 

Sunset & Stargazing

The Zion Human History Museum is just north of the Visitor Center, and its patio provides great sunset views overlooking Bridge Mountain and the East Temple. Once the sun has set, the patio continues to serve looks, with expansive night sky stretched out above you. If you’d rather take a stroll as you take in the heavens, the Pa’rus Trail is an excellent option for both sunset and star gazers. Canyon Junction Bridge was once a lovely spot to watch the sun set, but it now has signs up prohibiting pedestrian loitering (park rangers will patrol the area around sunset to make people move).

Despite all the rush of snagging a top notch sunset spot, Zion’s grandiose topography prevents visitors from actually watching the sun settle into the horizon. The sunset hour still affords enviable views as the cotton candy colored clouds and watercolor sky make for a gorgeous backdrop to the tangerine canyons as the sunlight fades. 

Zion goes to lengths to preserve the dark night sky that makes for excellent stargazing. Due to this dedication, there is very minimal outdoor lighting to illuminate your path, after the sun sets. If you’re planning to be out after sunset, be sure to bring a flashlight with you. 

adventuring in awe through zion canyon on the pa'rus trail
views along the Pa’rus Trail

They say a picture’s worth a thousand words, but no picture truly captures how immense Zion Canyon is. The national parks system protects some of the most beautiful niches of the country, and Zion is a crown jewel in this collection. Let us know what you think of this immense testament to nature’s grandeur.

Zion is one of five national parks in Utah. Be sure to check out Bryce Canyon, Arches, Capitol Reef, and Canyonlands as well, to truly appreciate all of the Utah national park topography!

written by Hannah 

Hannah traded the warm beaches of southwest FL for the outdoor adventure locale that is Bend, OR. Despite the distance, Hannah maintains her bossy big sister role with regular phone calls to keep up with all the little sister shenanigans. Notoriously chatty with her patients as well, Hannah stays busy as a physical therapist, but loves making time to explore newfound hikes. These days she has some extra pack weight; however, Xavier is notorious for being unimpressed by sweeping vistas.

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national parks travel

Mesas, Mazes, Rivers, and More at Canyonlands

Canyonlands National Park, a nearly 337,600 acre desert in southeastern Utah, is known for its rugged landscape carved by the Colorado and Green Rivers. As the largest national park in Utah, it boasts four distinct regions of the park, each with its own exceptional topography. With panoramic overlooks, towering spires, and a plethora of remote canyons scattered throughout, Canyonlands has range. Whether you’re planning a Canyonlands-only trip or hitting up all the national parks in Utah, you won’t regret exploring the unique landscape in this diverse desert wilderness: from mesas to mazes and everything in between. 

Below we will detail the three districts of the park, the best hikes, beautiful drives, and some excellent camping options— plus some of our best tips and tricks for making the most of your time at Canyonlands!

Fast Facts About Canyonlands National Park

Size:  337,570 acres

Visitors: 733,996 visitors annually (data from 2019)

Highest elevation: 7,180 feet — Big Pocket in the Needles District

Distance from Moab: 30 miles — 35 minute drive

Distance from Salt Lake City: 250 miles — 4 hour drive

National Park Initiation: September 12, 1964 by President Lyndon B. Johnson 

The Districts 

Canyonlands has three separate districts that combine to form a truly diverse park— in addition to the two rivers that create the boundaries of each district (these rivers are considered a fourth district). Whether you’re excited to explore renown hikes or keen on a slice of remote silence, you’re sure to find adventure in this primitive desert ecosystem. 

Island in the Sky 

The ‘Island in the Sky’ district is aptly named as the mesa rests on a sandstone pedestal. Sheer cliffs elevate this district over 1,000 feet above the surrounding landscape. Island in the Sky is the most popularly visited district, largely due to its proximity to Moab. 

Hikes & Sights

Whether you’re planning on spending a few hours here or a few days, there’s a myriad of overlooks and hikes to explore. The Mesa Arch Trail is a short, easy hike to a unique arch with a picturesque background. It also makes for a great spot to watch the sun rise! The Grand View Point Trail is an awe-inspiring hike with constant views for the entire nearly 2-mile hike. Similar in length and oftentimes less crowded, the White Rim Overlook Trail showcases a panorama of canyons with the La Sal mountains as a backdrop.

If you’re keen on mountain biking, the White Rim Road is an illustrious path for any biker up to the challenge. While the road can get rather steep and strenuous in some places, you will be afforded spectacular views in spades. The harder you work for it, the more rewarding it is!

For those with mobility-impairments that make long walks challenging, the Green River Overlook provides stunning perspective, without any wear and tear on the joints. Or perhaps take it all in from your car. Grand View Road stretches about 19 miles and makes for a meandering exploration of Canyonlands, coasting past many popular viewpoints!

Camping Out

There is no lodge in the park, so if you want to stay in the park, plan on camping. The Island in the Sky campground, Willow Flat, is open year-round and offers 12 sites, on a first-come, first-serve basis. Looking to get a room with a view? The gorgeous Green River Overlook is adjacent to the campsite. The nightly camping fee is a very reasonable $15 per site, and sites fill quickly in the spring, summer, and fall seasons. Campground amenities include toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings in the campground. While there is no water at the campground, drinking water can be found outside the visitor center. 

The Needles 
Exploration station

Needles makes up the southeast corner of Canyonlands. It is named for the colorful spires that proliferate this region of the park. This part of the park is best suited for visitors with a bit more time on their hands as it’s a bit further of a drive from Moab than Island in the Sky— farther, but worth the drive! The extensive trail system in this district offers abundant opportunities for day hikes and overnight trips. Driving up to the Big Spring Canyon Overlook is an easy way to check out the northern part of the district, while hiking the Chesler Park Viewpoint Trail is a breathtaking way to explore the more southern region. 

Camping Out

The Needles Campground is open year-round and has 26 individual sites as well as 3 additional group sites. The nightly camping fee for an individual site is $20. Spring through fall, visitors can reserve individual sites and group sites, but the remainder of the year, these sites are first-come, first-served. This campground has toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings in the campground to facilitate your camping experience.

The Maze 

You won’t find a Visitor Center in the Maze as this part of the park is remote and all roads are unpaved. A four-wheel-drive vehicle is a must if you want to come exploring out here. Bring your patience and best boy-scout skills, because being self-sufficient in the outdoors is important to staying safe in this region of the park. This is no joke– the Maze is where Aron Ralston was stuck and his determined survival inspired the movie 127 Hours!

The most historically remarkable hiking in the Maze is to Horseshoe Canyon, renown for its historic yet beautiful American Indian rock art. Hikers make the seven mile trek to the ‘The Great Gallery’ to observe the intricately drawn, life-sized figures that act as a living memory to a bygone civilization. While we weren’t quite hardy enough to make the trip, it seems like a surreal experience to take in this slice of history. 

The Rivers 

The Colorado and Green rivers wind through Canyonlands, slicing through centuries of sandstone to separate the park into its three distinct districts. These rivers are generally calm, flowing south until they intersect at The Confluence. Both the Colorado and Green rivers are ideal for a canoeing or kayaking adventure— before they meet at the Confluence. Once combined, their subsequent flow through Cataract Canyon creates a world-class stretch of white water rapids. The rapids range from class II to V, giving adrenaline junkies quite the rush with its powerful speed. Unless you are very confident rafting, it’s always best to explore white water rapids with a guide!

from mesas to mazes the colorado river has carved through this desert landscape

Star Light, Star Bright

Staying in Moab and hoping to catch a glimpse of the starts? Canyonlands will provide the best views in the Moab area. While it is a bit more of a drive than nearby Arches, this extra distance means even less light pollution from near-by Moab. The starry night skies are actually so pristine, the park received a Gold-Tier International Dark Sky Park designation.

Pets 

Pet-companion trailblazing is limited at Canyonlands due to the sensitive desert ecosystem and extreme temperatures. Pets must be on a leash at all times when outside a vehicle, for everyone’s safety. Pets are welcomed at the developed campgrounds in Island in the Sky and The Needles districts and along paved roads. It is not permitted to bring your pet with you on any of the hiking trails or to the overlooks. While the backcountry does tend to be less populated, pets are also unwelcome on the backcountry rivers and roads.

Plan Smarter, Not Harder

The Elements

If you are going to be out hiking for any length of time, you should ensure you have packed sufficient water. Doing a longer trail? It’s never a bad idea to pack a snack or two to ensure you can keep up your stamina. If you’re not used to heat and elevation changes, it can fatigue you even more quickly on an empty stomach.  

Get out early to avoid the heat of the day and the crowds. If you are an early bird, the earlier the better to afford you a bit more tranquility in the park and perhaps a stunning sunrise view. For any and all that do their best work in the afternoon, heading to the park around 3pm or 4pm will allow you to miss both the strongest UV rays of the day as well as all the morning park-goers.

Pack your sunscreen… and perhaps a hat as well. Even if you are getting after it before the sun has reached its peak, the rays are strong. Sustained exposure will leave you burned!

If you’re keen on a bit more information, but don’t want to sift through the National Park Service Website, the Visitor Guide is an awesome resource with everything you need to know about Canyonlands in one place.

Canyonlands provides a cornucopia of opportunity for outdoor exploration. Whether you’re into hiking, rock climbing, back country camping, rafting, or biking, outdoor recreation abounds. What adventure are you most intrigued to pursue out in this desert wilderness escape?

written by Hannah 

Hannah has learned the hard way to be careful what you wish for— sometimes happily ever after lands you with a husband and puppy… in the Midwest.  Despite leaving Florida to move to Wisconsin,  Hannah maintains her bossy big sister role with regular phone calls to keep up with all the little sister shenanigans. Notoriously chatty with her patients as well, Hannah stays busy as a physical therapist, but loves spending weekends exploring newfound hikes.


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national parks travel

One Day in Capitol Reef: A Complete Itinerary for Visitors

Capitol Reef National Park is the youngest of Utah’s five national parks, with its inception in 1971. The south-central desert park is home to an impressive, nearly 100-mile Waterpocket Fold. This wrinkle in the earth’s crust breathes life into high desert ecosystems and some enduring historic orchards. Whether you’re planning a Capitol Reef-only trip or hitting up all the parks in Utah, you won’t regret exploring the immense sandstone canyons and savoring breathtaking panoramic views that make this desert oasis unique. With so much to explore in this expansive yet underrated park, making the most of one day in Capitol Reef is a priority!

Not only does this area boast unique geography, but it’s also steeped in rich history. From historic farming practices to trails named after infamous outlaws, Capitol Reef remains intriguing.

Fast Facts About Capitol Reef National Park

Size:  243,921 acres

Visitors: 1,268,861 visitors annually (data from 2023)

Highest elevation: 8960 ft — in upper Deep Creek drainage near Billings Pass

Distance from Salt Lake City Airport: 220 miles — 3.5 hour drive

National Park Initiation: December 18th, 1971 by President Richard Nixon 

How Long to Stay?

Capitol Reef is a beautiful national park with breathtaking vistas and amazing topography. It’s a less popular park than neighboring Bryce or Arches, which means there’s less people out in the park you have to contend with. If you are on a road trip visiting all five Utah parks, Capitol Reef is easiest to hit when driving between Bryce and Moab (Arches and Canyonlands nearby). A half-day to a single full day is enough time to appreciate the essence of Capitol Reef. If you have limitless time available, there’s always more exploration to be done, but plan to spend at least 3-5 hours here.

Sleeping under the Stars  

For anyone keen to stay a full day, you might find yourself in need of a place to rest your weary eyes. Capitol Reef National Park does not have a lodge or restaurant, so if you want to eat, pack a lunch, and if you want to sleep, bring a tent! There are three campgrounds in the park: one developed and two primitive. The campgrounds are each found in a different district of the park. 

If camping is not your style, Torrey, UT is the closest nearby town. There are some assorted hotel and Airbnb options there to chose from.

Cathedral Valley Campground — photo via nps.gov
Fruita Campground

The Fruita Campground is located in the Fruita Historic district, and it is open year-round. It is the only developed campground in Capitol Reef National Park. This campground might just feel like a slice of heaven, surrounded by historic orchards, with the Fremont River running nearby. Campers visiting from March 1st to October 31st must make a reservation— up to 6 months in advance to ensure availability. For the remainder of the year, all campsites are available on a first come, first serve basis.

photo via nps.gov
Cathedral Valley & CEDAR MESA Campgrounds 

The Cedar Mesa Campground (Southern Waterpocket district) and Cathedral Valley Campground (Cathedral Valley district) are the two primitive campgrounds. There are five and six campsites, respectively, at each location. There is no cost or need for reservations. Campsites are available year-round on a first-come, first-serve basis.

No gatekeeping the best stargazing spots— a list, organized by district, can be found here. 

The Sights & Sounds of Capitol Reef

The Waterpocket Fold—a massive geographical wrinkle—offers breathtaking views and hiking opportunities. With its combination of natural beauty and cultural history, Capitol Reef provides a memorable experience for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Below we have detailed our favorite hike, a beautiful drive, a couple stargazing walks, where to bunk down, and an unexpected spot to grab a snack— as well as all the tips and tricks that will ensure you have the best time.

Mission 66 Visitor Center

The Mission 66 Visitor Center is home to engaging exhibits about the park’s geology, history, and cultural significance and the stories of early settlers in the Fruita district. It’s the perfect spot to ask more questions about what exactly a Waterpocket Fold is. The visitor center offers a plethora of resources, such as maps, brochures, and ranger-led programs, making it an ideal starting point for any visit. Its opportune location makes it easy to stop by before heading out to the nearby park attractions, including the scenic drive and nearby hiking trails.

photo via nps.gov
Boots on the Ground

What’s a visit to a national park without a hike? Capitol Reef has dozens of hikes to choose from in the various regions of the park. That being said, if you only do one hike, it should be the Cassidy Arch Trail. Hiking to a viewpoint is always rewarding, but this hike showcases dramatic views the whole time! It offers gorgeous views of not only the Cassidy Arch but of the waterpocket fold as well. A few spots along the trail can be a little hard to follow, but the cairns placed throughout ensure no one wanders too far from the trail.   

*if you only do one thing in the park, this should be it*

the cassidy arch with the waterpocket fold in the backdrop… a must do hike if you only have one day in Capitol Reef
Scenic drive 

Taking it low and slow! Capitol Reef offers a virtual “guide” of sorts, available on their website. This 8 mile drive takes about an hour and a half and takes visitors through some of the park’s highlights. Be sure to pull the webpage up before you leave the visitor center (service can get spotty), so you can read a little background information and history on various spots along your drive. 

Perhaps you don’t have time for the full scenic drive but want to sneak in one last view before you leave? Two miles west of the Visitor Center, Panorama Point and Gooseneck Point stand 800 feet above the Sulphur River. These viewpoints showcase the millions of years of erosion it took to carve out the canyon. 

panoramic view of the Waterpocket fold from the Cassidy Arch Trail in the desert oasis that is Capitol Reef National Park

As a note: if you are planning to rent a car, you won’t be disappointed to have a higher clearance vehicle. We were able to get by with a sedan, but if we were to do it again, we would have a higher clearance car/SUV— especially for this park! Of the five parks in Utah, we found Capitol Reef to be the most rural.

Berry Picking

Capitol Reef is home to a few gorgeous orchards, bearing cherries, apricots, peaches, pears, and apples. Trees in bloom are always beautiful but in the middle of the desert, these fruit trees feel like an oasis. In the late 1800s, Latter-Day Saints planted thousands of trees in the fertile Fremont River Valley. The remaining trees are remnants of this pioneer community in Fruita, making these historic orchards the bearers of heirloom fruits.

photo via nps.gov

When the trees are bearing fruit, park visitors are allowed and encouraged to pick the fruit. You will know an orchard has ripe fruit, ready for harvest when you see a “U-Pick Fruit” sign. Fruit pick from the orchard must be paid for, but this done with ease with a self-pay station, scale, and fruit price list located near the entrance of the orchard.

Capitol Reef is visited less than some of Utah’s other illustrious parks, but that’s what makes it a perfect spot. With over 1 million people visiting annually, you will certainly see other visitors exploring, but the more remote location limits the crowds. A day in Capitol Reef is a day well spent! Be sure to add this technicolor desert escape to your bucket list!

If you’re planning to visit all Utah’s national parks, check out our guided itineraries for Zion, Bryce, Canyonlands, and Arches! Happy travels!

written by Hannah 

Hannah traded the warm beaches of southwest FL for the outdoor adventure locale that is Bend, OR. Despite the distance, Hannah maintains her bossy big sister role with regular phone calls to keep up with all the little sister shenanigans. Notoriously chatty with her patients as well, Hannah stays busy as a physical therapist, but loves making time to explore newfound hikes. These days she has some extra pack weight; however, Xavier is notorious for being unimpressed by sweeping vistas.

Categories
national parks travel

How to Spend a Perfect Day in Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a striking landscape of towering red rock formations, known as hoodoos, that create a surreal and otherworldly setting. Located in southern Utah, the park offers visitors an array of hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, and unique geological wonders shaped by millions of years of erosion. Whether you’re catching an unforgettable sunrise or exploring the iconic Navajo Loop Trail, our perfect day in Bryce Canyon provides an unforgettable experience for nature lovers, photographers, and outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure amidst its vibrant, rugged terrain.

How many days should you plan to spend in Bryce Canyon? If you’re really keen to do a bunch of hiking, you could spend a few days here, but one day in Bryce Canyon is enough to leave feeling like you’ve really experienced the park. Even if you’re not typically an early riser, you won’t regret peeling yourself out of bed to catch the sunrise over the amphitheater. It might just be the most breathtaking way to see the park!

Fast Facts About Bryce Canyon National Park

Size:  35,835 acres

Visitors: 2,354,660 visitors annually (data from 2022)

Highest elevation: 9,115ft at Rainbow Point and Yovimpa Point

Distance from Las Vegas Airport: 270 miles — 4 hour drive

Distance from Salt Lake City Airport: 275 miles — 4 hour drive

National Park Initiation: February 25th, 1928

Fun Fact: Bryce Canyon is home to the largest concentration of hoodoos on Earth!

The hoodoos and spires that abound throughout the canyon are almost miraculously formed by rain, snow, and ice. If you have questions about anything, be sure to ask a park ranger for a more in depth explanation! They are truly an awesome resource.

Below we have detailed all of our favorite hikes, all the best viewpoints, how-to’s for navigating transportation, and where to bunk down— as well as all the tips and tricks to ensure you have the best time.

Packing Essentials
  • water bottle — make sure you fill it before every hike!!
  • snacks — if you’re not used to heat and elevation changes, it can fatigue you even more quickly. (FYI: Bryce Canyon is up at over 8,000 feet of elevation) it’s never a bad idea to have a little extra sustenance… plus who doesn’t enjoy a little treat as they take in the views??
  • hiking backpack — an 8-15L hiking backpack is usually pretty lightweight and it’s a nice not to worry about carrying your water bottle, phone, and snacks
  • trekking poles — a walking stick or trekking poles are never a bad idea. These are beneficial for a multitude of hikes, especially if you would consider yourself a little on the de-trained side. even for fit individuals, some of the elevation climbs can be a kick in the pants!
  • sunscreen — sun protection is important!
  • hat — some of the trails have very minimal shade, so it’s never a bad idea to bring a little of your own
  • Layers, layers, layers — despite hot temperatures during the day, the early mornings and evenings can still be quite chilly– plus the temperature can vary by elevation or time of day (i.e sunrise can be pretty chilly, even in the summer)
A Good Night’s Rest

Perhaps the most important part of maximizing your time in a busy day? Getting a good night’s sleep! There are certainly accommodations nearby when you are visiting Bryce Canyon, but what’s more convenient than staying in the park?? In-park accommodations tend to either be very economical (camping) or a little on the spendy side (lodge living). Either way you have great options to choose from. It’s worth noting, both camping and the lodge will fill up quickly. If you know this is where you want to stay, book sooner rather than later!

Campgrounds 

There are two campgrounds found in the Bryce Canyon National Park. In addition to these two areas, rugged backpackers are able to go backcountry camping along the Riggs Spring Loop and Under the Rim Trail. Camping along the trail requires attaining a first come, first serve permit, up to 48 hours in advance.  

The North Campground

The North Campground can be found right across the street from the Visitor’s Center, so it’s hard to miss! This campground has 100 sites that are spread out over 4 loops. If you are planning to go camping May 27th through October 1st, you must make a reservation, up to six months in advance. If you are planning to visit October 2nd through May 26th, campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Campflare is an awesome website/app resource that can help you snag a campsite in a full online reservation-based campground, if you’re planning a last-minute trip.

The sunset campground  

The Sunset Campground can be found not far from Sunset Point. This campground boasts 99 sites, divided into 3 loops– one of which is primarily for RVs, the other two, tent-camping only. This campground is available on a first come first serve basis April 15th through October 31st, and is closed throughout winter (i.e. the rest of the year)

The Lodge 

If your idea of rustic accommodations are less tent and more log cabin, the Bryce Canyon Lodge is the place for you. The lodge and cabins were built in 1925, and the exterior of the buildings has undergone minimal change in the time since they were built. These historic accommodations are available to visitors mid-spring through late fall. Due to its convenient location inside the park, rooms go quickly. Reservations can be made up to 13 months in advance.

photo via www.nps.gov
Free Shuttle Anyone?

Bryce Canyon operates a free shuttle around the Bryce Amphitheater, from April 5th to October 20th. No advance reservation required. The shuttle runs from 8am – 6pm with extended hours until 8pm from May 10th to September 22nd. If you want to plan your inter-amphitheater shuttling, you can track the shuttles here. 

When the park gets crowded, this can be an awesome way to maneuver around without the classic fear of not being able to find a parking spot. This is also super helpful to any over-eager-turned-quickly-humbled hikers that might want a bit of a lift back to their car.

◁ One Action Packed Day ▷

Get ready for a little bit over everything at Bryce Canyon! An unforgettable sunrise, a couple memorable hikes, bird’s eye view overlooks, and a relaxing sunset to end the day. Bryce is home to the largest concentration of hoodoos anywhere in the world, so this truly is a one-of-a-kind park.

If you need help orienting yourself in the park or want a map you can save to your phone, you can find that here.

Sunrise

Catching sunrise in the summer months can be quite the endeavor as long days mean early sunrises. The sunrise in Bryce Canyon is worth pulling yourself out of bed for!! Inspiration Point affords an incredible view of the sun peaking over the mountains, illuminating the technicolor amphitheater. The Rim Trail connects Inspiration Point and Bryce Point, and makes for a beautiful Sunrise hike.

A portion of the hike is perfect for an early morning walk, but the trail stretches 11.0 miles. With only one day in the park, we recommend just going to Bryce Point and back, to save your legs for another awesome hike.

Don’t stress if you’re running a bit late for the sunrise. While the time for the sunrise is set according to when it rises over the horizon, the sun must rise a bit further to be visible over the mountains in the distance. This provides a nice cushion— especially if you’re trying to catch the sunrise over the summer.

a beautiful sunrise at Inspiration Point , the beginning of a perfect day in Bryce canyon
Navajo loop

The Navajo Loop and Queen’s Garden Trail is the most popular trail in the park, but for good reason. The expansive scenery will leave you at a loss of words, while the towering canyon walls are staggeringly tall in a way that truly puts the magnitude of Bryce Canyon into perspective. The trail brings you down into the amphitheater, allowing you to experience the stacks of hoodoos up close! This trail is about 3 miles long… getting down to the hoodoos means there’s an ascent to return to the trailhead; however, it’s pretty manageable with an overall elevation of about 650 ft.

photo via nps.gov
Fairyland Loop

The Navajo loop is an awesome hike… the only downside it the popularity can make it a bit crowded. If you have the stamina for an 8 mile hike with a little over 1,500 ft of elevation gain, the Fairyland Loop is the hike for you!! You still get to be up close with the spectacular scenery and take in jaw-dropping views, but with a bit more solitude than you might find elsewhere.

photo via nps.gov
Grab a Bite

All that wandering around will work up an appetite! There’s a few different options when you’re looking to hunt down some sustenance in the park. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served in the The Bryce Canyon Lodge Restaurant (menus here) Right next door you’ll find the Valhalla Pizzeria and Coffee Shop, which is also open all day but they only serve pizza after 11:30am. The Bryce Canyon Lodge also houses The General Store, if you’re looking for some quick grab-n-go options or snacks!

Rainbow and Yovimpa Viewpoints

There are so many fantastic viewpoints that allow one to admire Bryce Canyon in its entirety. Rainbow Point and Yovimpa Point are at the very southern end of the park, giving way to the Grand Staircase and an array of truly remarkable cliffs, making it a delightful crow’s nest for observation. This actually the highest point in the park!

photo via nps.gov
Sunset

While there is both a Sunrise Point and a Sunset Point, only the sunrise is truly visible in the park. At sunset, the fading sun creates an ethereal watercolor painting in the sky, which is certainly beautiful in its own right, but the sun sinking into the horizon is not visible from Sunset Point. Regardless, it’s a beautiful and peaceful way to end the day.

While sunrise and sunset are generally known to be beautiful times of day, this is especially true at Bryce Canyon. The sunrise in particular, is outstanding… the way the sun reflects across the hoodoos and spires makes it beyond worth-it to go out of your way to witness this kaleidoscope of color. We hope this helps you plan your own perfect day in Bryce Canyon.

Zion is one of five national parks in Utah. Be sure to check out Zion, Arches, Capitol Reef, and Canyonlands as well, to truly appreciate all of the Utah national park topography! Happy travels!

written by Hannah 

Hannah traded the warm beaches of southwest FL for the outdoor adventure locale that is Bend, OR. Despite the distance, Hannah maintains her bossy big sister role with regular phone calls to keep up with all the little sister shenanigans. Notoriously chatty with her patients as well, Hannah stays busy as a physical therapist, but loves making time to explore newfound hikes. These days she has some extra pack weight; however, Xavier is notorious for being unimpressed by sweeping vistas.

Categories
national parks travel

Taking in Beautiful Crater Lake

Despite the state of Oregon being a cornucopia of etherial, natural beauty, it is home to only one national park: Crater Lake. Approximately 7,700 years ago, the 12,000-foot-tall volcano known as Mount Mazama erupted and collapsed, forming the 1,943 foot deep Crater Lake. This is the deepest lake in America! Crater Lake has become renown for its beautiful, illustrious blue color, as the lake’s water comes directly from snow or rain, making it one of the cleanest and clearest lakes in the world. Teeming with wilderness adventures year-round, a visit to Crater Lake is a must!

RIM DRIVE 

The Rim Drive stretches in a 33 mile loop, encircling Crater Lake. It boasts 30 overlooks, with each highlighting a different view of the lake, a remarkable geologic formation, or a noteworthy environmental feature.

While some of these stops have exhibits with information about the view, most of the pullouts do not have signage… just hypnotizing views with hundreds of shades of blue. Definitely leave yourself lots of time to drive around, because it’s rather hard not to stop at every pullout along the way!

ADVENTURES AWAIT

Summer/Fall

Lake Tour

This tour is a two-hour cruise. During this time, guests will circle the perimeter of the lake, affording up-close views of Wizard Island, Phantom Ship, and the sparkling depths of the lake itself. As the beautiful views abound, a ranger will share information about the Crater Lake’s history, geology, and culture.

The tour starts at the Cleetwood Cove Boat Dock on the north side of Crater Lake. To access the dock visitors must to hike the Cleetwood Cove Trail, one of the park’s steepest trails. The trail is 1.1 miles long and has a 700-foot elevation change.

Reservations can be made here.

Fishing

There are two species of fish that live in Crater Lake: Kokanee salmon and rainbow trout. These fish are actually not native to the lake, so visitors are encouraged to fish. You don’t need a license and there’s no limit on how much you catch!

Visitors may fish along the shoreline any time, as permitted by the weather. The shoreline is reached via the 1.1-mile Cleetwood Trail.

Important to note: fishermen and women must use artificial bait, so as to not inadvertently introduce an outside species to the lake.

Hiking

While there are no hiking trails that encircle the lake, there are 16 day-hike trails in addition to five longer backcountry hikes. The hikes are stratified in categories of easy, moderate, and strenuous to ensure hikers of all fitness levels are equipped for outdoor adventure.

The Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) stretches 2,650 miles from Mexico up to Canada, and a portion of this trek crosses through Crater Lake National Park. The main trail primarily stays on the outskirts of the park, so you would only really find this trail if you were looking for it.

Winter/Spring

Skiing

The park features a variety of marked and unmarked routes for bold cross-country skiers. Adventure enthusiasts can choose a route through forests, along West Rim Drive, or to Vidae Falls along the East Rim Drive.

Crater Lake provides a park newspaper that provides an annual update on ski trails. Certainly worth checking out as you plan your wintery adventure.

While no ski equipment rental is available in the park, it can be rented along the way as you drive in. Call Waldron’s in Roseburg, OR at 541. 672. 8992 or Blackbird in Medford, OR at 541. 779. 5431 (Blackbird pricing available here) to reserve a pair of skis.

SnowShoeing

Never been snowshoeing before? New to Crater Lake? Trek through the snow with a Park Ranger and enjoy an off-trail exploration through the snowy forests and meadows along the rim of Crater Lake.

No previous snowshoeing experience is necessary. The snowshoes are provided free of charge, and there is no cost for the tour (besides the cost of admission into the park).

These tours are available Saturdays and Sundays, December through April. Advance reservations are required. For more information or to sign up, you can call the park’s visitor center at 541. 594. 3100.

even in the middle of July, there’s snow on the ground!

PLANNING YOUR VISIT

When to Come

Generally speaking, the best months to visit Crater Lake are July, August, and September. Even in these summer months, you will see snow on the ground. If you’re planning to be in Oregon in October or June, you may want to check out the Crater Lake operations or alerts pages to ensure the roads are open. This part of Oregon receives an annual average of 42 feet of snow, so the Rim Drive roads are seasonally closed for the winter season. 

Visitor’s Center

Crater Lake maintains not one, but two visitor centers. The Steel Visitor Center is open year-round, whereas the Rim Visitor Center is only open in the summer months (May 22-October 31st). In 2021, the Rim Visitor Center was temporarily closed down due to COVID. Additionally, the Steel Visitor Center will also be closed through the end of 2022, to complete renovations to the building structure.

SLEEPS 

Crater Lake Lodge

Open mid-May to mid-October, the Crater Lake Lodge boasts 71 rooms, in a picturesque chalet overlooking Crater Lake. Pets are not permitted. To make a reservation, you can either call (866) 292-6720 or do so online.

The Cabins at Mazama Village   

Seven miles south of Rim Village, you’ll find Mazama Village with 40 cabin units available for visitors. They are open late May to late September. Pets are not permitted. To make a reservation, you can call (866) 292-6720 or do so online.

Mazama Campground   

The Mazama Campground has 214 sites available for tents and RVs (50’ maximum). There are some electric hookups available for RVs. Campsite amenities include restrooms, potable water, a gas station, food storage lockers, and a dump station. This campground is open early June to late September. To make a reservation, you can either call (541) 594-2255 ext. 3 or do so online.

DOGGOS

Pets on leash are allowed on paved roads and parking lots that are free of significant snow. Leashes must be no more than 6 feet in length, and only one pet per walker is allowed. 

Areas to Walk in Summer and Fall

The 1/4-mile paved promenade at Rim Village (excellent views here!)

Through the campground loops at Mazama Village. 

The following trails: Godfrey Glen Trail, The Lady of the Woods Trail, The Grayback Drive, and The Pacific Crest Trail (note: these trails do not offer any views of the lake).

Areas to Walk in Winter and Spring

Throughout these seasons, the most popular place to walk a dog is the Rim Village parking lot.

Pets are allowed only on one park trail: the Pacific Crest Trail, which is open to cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. The Pacific Crest Trail is open year-round to pets, whether it is covered by snow or not.

Pets are not allowed on other park trails, off-trail, or on unplowed roads. They are also not allowed inside park buildings, including Crater Lake Lodge and the Mazama Village Cabins. Service animals are exempt from these regulations. Service dogs are allowed on park trails and also on boat tours.

GOOD EATS

Whether you’re looking to grab a snack for your hike or to rest your weary legs while you eat, you have a few different options for chowing down while you’re visiting Crater Lake. With three restaurants and a general store, all your bases will be covered. Hours do vary based on time of year, so check here to ensure you’ll be able to properly fill your belly (or your car!). 

Rim Village Café

This spot in the southwest rim of the lake serves grab-and-go salads and sandwiches.

Annie Creek Restaurant

This restaurant can be found in Mazama Village, near the Annie Spring entrance to the park. They sell grab-and-go sandwiches and salads for lunch, but they also serve pizza, burgers, and other entrees for dinner.

Crater Lake Lodge Dining Room

Crater Lake Lodge offers casual dining with a lake-view setting. Due to the restrictions brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, meals at the Lodge are currently only available for Lodge guests.

Mazama Village Store

This general store sells groceries, camping supplies, firewood, and gasoline.

beautiful view of Crater Lake

ENTRANCE FEES & PASSES

Pass Type Summer Cost*Winter Cost*
Single Vehicle Fee

(Grants unlimited entry for one vehicle for 7 consecutive days—  aka keep your receipt if you plan to come back!)		$30$20
Single Pedestrian or Bicycle

(Grants unlimited entry for 7 consecutive days)		$15$15
Single Motorcycle

(Grants unlimited entry for 7 consecutive days)		$25$15
America The Beautiful Annual Pass

(entry into all National Parks) 		$80$80
America The Beautiful Annual Military Pass

(see if you qualify here) 		$0$0
* Summer is May 22nd-October 31st. Winter is November 1st-May 21st.

We hope you have a lovely time taking in this gorgeous reflection of nature’s beauty. If you are exploring the national parks throughout the Pacific North West, be sure to check out Mount Rainier next!

written by Hannah

Hannah has learned the hard way to be careful what you wish for— sometimes happily ever after lands you with a husband and puppy… in the Midwest.  Despite leaving Florida to move to Wisconsin,  Hannah maintains her bossy big sister role with regular phone calls to keep up with all the little sister shenanigans. Notoriously chatty with her patients as well, Hannah stays busy as a physical therapist, but loves spending weekends exploring newfound hikes. 

Categories
national parks travel

A Full Day of Fun at the Hawai’i Volcano National Park

The Hawai’i Volcano National Park (HVNP) is a breathtaking display of the power a volcano holds within. If you are planning a trip to Big Island, a visit to HVNP is a must! You will be blown away by the diverse microbiomes waiting to be encountered. From lava craters, forests, to seemingly endless stretches of rocky terrain, to the picturesque coastline, everything in this park radiates the allure of nature.

The Hawai’i Volcano National Park is home to two unique volcanoes: Kīlauea, one of the world’s most active volcanoes, and Mauna Loa, the largest active volcano. Not only are these feats of nature impressive in size, they also represent a special part of Hawaiian culture. Kīlauea maintains a large crater at its summit named Halemaʻumaʻu, which is said to serve as the body and home of Pelehonuamea or Pele. Pele is regarded a Hawaiian volcano deity and respected as the creator of the volcanic landscapes that make up the Hawaiian archipelago.

Below we have detailed everything you need to know to make the most of your day in the park! From the best trails to the prettiest drives and all the tips and tricks in between to ensure you make the most of your very volcano day.

Scoot Your Boot This Way

When booking your rental vehicle for Big Island, some spots require four wheel drive, but you will not need it to visit the Hawai’i Volcano National Park! All roads in the park are two-wheel drive friendly, so you should be able to visit regardless your ride.

When you are planning your Big Island adventure, the two regions people tend to stay in are Hilo and Kailua-Kona. From Hilo, HVNP is about a 45 minute drive southwest via Highway 11. Departing from Kailua-Kona, the drive is a bit longer, clocking is at a little over 2 hours, taking Highway 11 southeast.

Hawai'i Volcano National Park
Visitor Center

When you arrive in the park, the visitor center should be your first stop. It functions as an excellent starting point to make a game plan, empty your bladder, and lather on the sunscreen. There are interactive maps and park rangers available to help direct you wherever you need to head.

Kīlauea Iki Trail

Next up? Continue along Crater Rim Drive and park near the Kīlauea Iki trail or the Thurston lava tube (Nāhuku). These areas are close to one another and easily walkable, so snag a parking spot wherever you can. The lava tube isn’t anything too crazy, but it’s worth checking out just to experience how dark it gets down there— plus it’s wild to think lava once rush through the underground tube you’re standing in.

Across the road from the lava tube is the beginning of the Kīlauea Iki trail, which will lead you down to the floor of the Kīlauea Iki Crater. As the name suggests, this trail takes you down into the Kīlauea Iki Crater, beware… if you make the 400 foot climb down into the crater, just remember you have to get back up! It doesn’t take long to wind your way down to the crater floor, and from there, the trail is marked with cairns, or small stone piles, to keep visitors on track.

Keanakākoʻi Overlook

Just putting your walking shoes to work, your next stop will be driving to the Crater Rim Drive trailhead and wandering out to the Keanakākoʻi Overlook. Not only does this perch provide a glimpse at the Keanakākoʻi Crater, but it affords a spectacular view of Kīlauea. Kīlauea is an active volcano that intermittently erupts, most recently from September 2021 to December 2022. While this view would be interesting any time, walking out to this viewpoint is a MUST when Kīlauea is erupting. How many erupting volcanoes are you going to see in one lifetime?!

Chain of Craters Road 

In what seems like a world away, the 20 mile drive out to the southern sea cliffs is beyond scenic as the landscape changes drastically before your very eyes. From the jungle-esque tropics near the visitor’s center, to the endless span of volcanic rock, to the stunning blue of the ocean crashing into a wide swath southern coastline, the drive out to the Hōlei Sea Arch is its own delight. 

Once you’re there, a short walk will take you to the Hōlei Sea Arch, serving as an example of both the ocean’s power and nature’s sculpting. The dynamic surf makes for a hypnotic view as the crashing waves slowly erode the southern coastline. Vastly differing from the desolate beauty of prolific lava-rock topography elsewhere in the park, the endlessness of the ocean offers a stark contrast to the seemingly ceaseless gray of the volcano. Being rather set apart from the more popular areas of the park, it’s easy to consider skipping a visit to the Hōlei Sea Arch, but you have to remember the drive itself is as amazing as the coastline views themselves.

Kīlauea Eruptions

Kīlauea is the youngest and most active volcano on the island of Hawaiʻi. This makes re-visiting the park from year to year a treat as the topography undergoes progressive changes due to the intermittent activity. Before you visit, it’s never a bad idea to check the eruption conditions… many visitors find themselves eager to see the etherial plumes of gas and steam by day and the eery lava glow after dark.

Man’s Best Friend

National parks are notoriously picky about dogs being allowed on the scene. Yes dogs are allowed in some areas throughout the park, as long as they are on a 6-foot leash. Pets are welcome…

  • In all parking areas and surrounding curbs (excluding Hilina Pali Road and Kulanaokuaiki Campground)
  • On Crater Rim Drive in areas open to vehicles
  • On Chain of Craters Road down to Puʻu Loa Petroglyphs
  • At the Nāmakanipaio Campground
  • On Mauna Loa Road (ccasionally referred to as “The Strip Road”)
  • On Highway 11
  • At Kīlauea Military Camp (on paved roads, parking areas, and at the picnic area)

Pets are unfortunately prohibited in all of the undeveloped areas of the park, including all designated wilderness and all front-country/backcountry trails.

If you are planning on taking your doggo with you, they will have the highly coveted honor of becoming a bark ranger of the Hawai’i Volcano National Park if their two-legged human friend stops by the Kīlauea Visitor Center with them.

Before You Go, You Gotta Know

Hawai’i Volcano National Park is generally on the rainier side of Big Island, so come prepared for precipitation. Even if the weather looks nice, it won’t hurt to throw a light rain jacket in your pack.

The weather can change in the blink of an eye. Pouring one minute and scorching hot the next. Be sure to wear sunscreen! If your fair-skinned, sunnies and a hat will be your friend.

You don’t need hiking boots to wander around, but you will want sturdy shoes. Especially if you plan to go on any longer hikes!

Expect limited parking. Many parking lots are full after 10 a.m. If there are active eruptions going on, this will only make the park more popular.

Speaking of eruptions, if you opt for some late afternoon hiking, consider sticking around until after dark. The park is gorgeous during the day, but the volcano takes on a whole new dimension of beauty, watching it erupt at night.

Hawai’i Volcano National Park Entrance Fees & Passes 
Pass Type Cost
Single Vehicle Fee

(Grants unlimited entry for one vehicle for 7 consecutive days—  aka keep your receipt if you plan to come back!)		$30
Single Pedestrian or Bicycle

(Grants unlimited entry for 7 consecutive days)		$15
Single Motorcycle

(Grants unlimited entry for 7 consecutive days)		$25
Hawai’i Tri-Park Annual Pass 

Can also be used at Haleakalā National Park and Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park.
(unlimited entry for one year to pass owner and passengers in the same car)		$55
America The Beautiful Annual Pass

(entry into all National Parks) 		$80
America The Beautiful Annual Military Pass

(see if you qualify here) 		$0
Entrance fees are waived for Martin Luther King Jr’s birthday, the first day of National Park Week, the one year anniversary of the Great American Outdoors Act, the National Park Service Birthday, the National Public Lands Day, and Veteran’s Day.
Onto Your Next Great Adventure

If you loved the volcanic landscape in the Hawai’i National Volcano Park, Mauna Kea is the next must visit stop on your Big Island road trip (our action-packed one week itinerary here). Big Island is comprised of six volcanoes, but Mauna Kea is both a volcano as well as the tallest mountain on Earth. Definitely worth checking out!

Note: To the best of our knowledge we tried to spell all Hawaiian names correctly, with their intended diacritics. We apologize for any slight inconsistencies or incorrect spellings.

written by McKenna

If you look up diva in the dictionary, you will find a picture of McKenna Lee. Loud-mouthed and overly opinionated she may have the biggest personality (read: attitude) of us all. McKenna is in college at FSU, but her passion lies in her small business Mack Swimwear and running her small group through church.  She lives for days spent in a bathing suit, and tries to go surfing in every new beach town she visits. 

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