Estes Park is known as the basecamp for Rocky Mountain National Park. Just northwest of Denver, the small town is surrounded on three sides by federally protected land. What does that mean for us? Estes Park is a mecca for outdoor sports and activities all year-round. Plus, it has a thriving downtown area, events for every season, and great local cuisine.
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Zion National Park Climbing Guidelines
Rock climbing is both an exciting and risky adventure. But when you reach the pinnacle of your journey, and are surrounded by unparalleled views of your surroundings, you’ll see it’s worth any challenges you face on your way! In order to get there, though, you’ll need to follow some basic rock climbing guidelines. This set of Zion National Park climbing guidelines will give you an idea of what to expect.
A National Park, the Rocky Mountains and Back
This is a road trip of epic proportions as you travel from sea level to 10,000 ft. And back again. From the Pacific Ocean to the Rocky Mountains, and through a national park or two, this trip will give you an experience of a lifetime.
Manitou Springs, Colorado: Where Outdoor Adventure, Wildlife & American History Converge
In addition to being an outdoor and wildlife mecca, Manitou Springs, Colorado, offers a fascinating glimpse into American history, culture, and art.
Summer’s Oasis in Bryce Canyon Country
At a higher elevation, Bryce Canyon becomes a haven, offering a refreshing escape from the lower desert heat and welcoming you to savor the magic of summer in the mountains. Gear up for adventure on an e bike ride along the Canyon 2 Canyon Trail, wind along hoodoos and rock walls in Red Canyon, and step back in time in the historic towns of Panguitch and Escalante, or visit Butch Cassidy’s boyhood home. Relax in the refreshing waters of Panguitch Lake or the lakes of Boulder Mountain and enjoy your summer escape in Bryce Canyon Country.
Arizona’s Hub for History and Fun: Sierra Vista
In a time of “first’s”, we were delighted that our daughter’s first climbing experience was in such a controlled, safe and fun environment.
3 Family-Friendly Days in Sierra Vista, Arizona
We were guided around the night sky, and through a telescope gazed at the moon, Saturn, and deep sky objects. This was such a treat in one of the darkest parts of the country!
Laramie, Wyoming
Welcome to Laramie, Wyoming—a charming Western town nestled in the heart of the Equality State. Laramie is home to wide open spaces, friendly locals, and a rich history that dates back to the Wild West era. Located at the base of the Snowy Range Mountains, this...
Bishop, California Has the Full Vacation Spectrum
From the peak of Mount Whitney to the depths of Death Valley—that’s how many options there are for things to do near Bishop, California. If that’s a bit extreme, here are a few more ideas: birding and fishing, cool rocks and hot springs, 4 wheel drive and all-star skies.
Feeling at Home (in your home) in Cheyenne
There’s a peaceful, thrilling feeling we’ve all had, but it’s rare: the moment when everything comes together on a road trip. In our research about Cheyenne, Wyoming, we started to find all the pieces for that moment to happen, and we had to share.
Choose Your Own Adventure at Grand Targhee Resort
This or that? Basing your summer adventures at Grand Targhee is a great way to escape the crowds of summer travelers, slow down and soak up time in the great outdoors, and tailor whatever you do—hike, bike, tour, or raft—to exactly your style.
Explore the Arts, Culture, and Adventure in Billings
If you can pull yourself away from all the excitement in town, the foodie in you will be delighted to go beyond the expected Montana steakhouse and find a tantalizing array of local eateries with creative, made-from-scratch menus.
California from Sea to Yosemite: The Southern Central Valley
California’s Central Valley is the heartland of California. It stretches past farm stands, along country roads, and through uniquely artistic communities right to the gates of some of the nation’s most renowned national parks such as Yosemite, Sequoia, and Kings Canyon. Follow this itinerary to explore the southern portion of this 400-mile long heart of California.
Following the River through Casper, Wyoming
The North Platte River in Casper, Wyoming runs through history, from Indigenous people to the Oregon Trail, to world-class fly fishing.
Hidden Corners of Carbon County, Wyoming
We are longtime fans of Carbon County, Wyoming. Located right in the middle of Southern Wyoming, the tagline for this epic spot is “Get Your West On.” As soon as you cross the state line and leave the city lights behind, you’ll see why.
Why Prescott is a Must on Your Next Arizona Trip
Western cowboy charm, unlimited outdoor adventure, historic downtown square known for its bars and live music, and a thriving farm-to-table—or “barrel-to-pint glass”—scene are just a few of the reasons that Prescott, Arizona should be at the top of your list for road trip destinations.
Laramie in the Summer
Whether you’re out to earn your turns or braaap it up, Laramie is high on “we’re coming back next winter” lists all over the country. But we’re here to make the case that it should be on “we’re coming back this summer” lists.
Logan Canyon: More than a Scenic Drive
The quick link between downtown Logan and the trails in Logan Canyon makes Cache Valley a breeze for travelers seeking outdoor recreation on their next vacation in Utah.
The Great Sand Dunes National Park: Mountains of Sand and Historic Land
The Colorado Mountains: An unlimited source of jagged peaks, wind-carved cliffs, and snow-capped vistas. But one of those mountains is quite a lot softer… literally.
Alternatives to 10 of America’s Most Popular National Parks
National parks have become increasingly popular over the past few decades, with the most popular parks receiving millions of visitors each year. While there’s no substitute for visiting America’s most-loved national parks, we’ve come up with a list of alternatives that are worth checking out, especially if you’re looking for less crowded places.
Tobey Schmidt
Meet Tobey SchmidtAdventurer & PhotographerA midwestern girl at heart, Tobey found her love for the outdoors in Tucson, Arizona. She’s since spent time living in Alaska and Colorado, and recently moved to Wyoming. Tobey is a photographer, writer and content...
Armchair Adventures: Virtual travel itinerary
For travelers, the call to adventure can be difficult to resist. We appreciate that you’re not globetrotting or even just hitting the road for a little outdoor adventure at this time. To feed your need for beautiful scenery, wide-open spaces, and movement, we have compiled some of our favorite outdoor rec-liner activities. Join us for some armchair adventures until you can get there IRL.
Winding through California’s High Sierra: 11 Experiences between Yosemite and Tahoe
Deciding on experiences in some of California’s most sought after country was a real challenge! Amber and I set parameters though, and stuck with them. We needed a mix of scenery, adventure, adrenaline, and relaxation for our California road trip–and we found it, all of it! From sunup to sundown, we explored California’s High Sierra, stretching from Yosemite National Park to Lake Tahoe. Here’s what we were able to experience and loved!
National Park Guidelines for a Fun and Safe Visit
From the beginning, national parks have been created and established to help preserve natural areas. And throughout the years, they have protected precious wilderness from being destroyed and erased by expanding human activity. In the interest of keeping these reserves around for years to come, we’d like to share some of the best ways to help maintain them. So, please, follow these general guidelines and inform yourself about specific for the national park you plan to visit.
Nowoodstock: The Ultimate Wyoming Music Festival
Need something to spice up your western summer road trip? Two words my friends: music festivals. You may not have figured there are cool, underground music festivals in Wyoming, but think again. Nowoodstock is one of Wyoming’s coolest music festivals, and it gets better every year.
Wind River Country, Three Days of Things to do in Wyoming
If you’re looking for things to do in Wyoming this summer, whether you’re on a road trip to Yellowstone or just discovering cool new spots, our Wind River Country itinerary has you covered.
Winslow, Arizona for the outdoorsy traveler
Descending from Flagstaff to Winslow, Arizona on the historic Route 66 is a slow and beautiful transition into the desert. Once you take the exit into Winslow, you just have to snap a selfie on the Standin’ on the Corner Park. Afterward, cruise out to the lake–that’s right, the lake! Clear Creek Reservoir is less than 10 minutes from town, and unless a fellow traveler told you about it, you might not even know it was there. The deep blue lake carves through beautiful Coconino Sandstone cliffs and McHood Park. Some even refer to the lake as a miniature Lake Powell.
The Epic Coast to Coast Route
From the shores of the Atlantic to the Golden Coast of California, this coast to coast route will take you in a line across the United States from east to west, and will give you a taste of the life of the great American cities and the national parks along the way.
National Parks and a Southwest Road Trip
The Great American Road Trip awaits you as you travel across some of the most beautiful landscapes the American West has to offer. This trip will take you from the Golden Coast to the Shining Desert with nothing but adventure along the way.
National Parks and The High Sierras
Recommended for first-timers to the United States, honeymooners, photographers, and road trippers.
Four Reasons To Visit Gillette, Wyoming
Gillette, Wyoming calls itself the “Energy Capital of the Nation” and rightfully so. However, there is a lot more than meets the eye once you visit this northeastern part of Wyoming. Creativity is twisting and turning in this town, which is allowing other aspects to step up and prosper. Today this town is exploding with stuff to explore and to taste, giving travelers so many reasons to stop in!
How to Spend a Weekend in Cheyenne
Recently, I was given the opportunity to explore Wyoming’s capital city: Cheyenne. This gem is not only rich in history, but it offers multiple attractions that make it a perfect tourist destination for anyone wanting to experience Eastern Wyoming firsthand. One could easily spend weeks in Cheyenne. For those of you who only have a couple days, I’ve already done the heavy lifting and planned a perfect weekend getaway.
Meet me at Montana’s Trailhead: Billings
The perfect place to start and end your adventures in Montana. Outside Magazine named Billings, Montana the best town in the United States in 2016. Billings is encompassed by endless outdoor adventure, great restaurants, several breweries, and an urban vibe with a small-town feel. After your visit, there will be no question as to why this town garnishes such high praise.
Close to Nature: 5 National Park suggestions
There are many reasons you may want your national park vacation to take you really close to nature. Perhaps you’re an adventurer at heart, and you long to explore freely. Or maybe you’re growing weary of this fast-paced world, and you want a vacation that will help you slow down. Any one of these options should do the trick. For parks that will fully immerse you in the natural world, look no further. Here come our 5 suggestions for an amazing, close to nature experience.
11 Family Travel Tips for Surviving Vacation
Summer is here, and while we’re all excited for a vacation, family travel always the relaxing experience you’re looking for. Traveling with the family can be stressful, but with these 11 tips, you’ll stay cool as a cucumber.
The Blue Ridge Parkway Road Trip: Shenandoah & Great Smoky Mountains National Parks
Crossing the heart of central Appalachia from Shenandoah National Park to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, this Blue Ridge Parkway road trip itinerary is packed with everything from history and culture to hikes and waterfalls.
Visit Aspen, Colorado Like a Local
Every year, people flock to the mountain mecca of Aspen, Colorado. It’s easy to see why! With the postcard-perfect Maroon Bells, dizzying heights of Independence Pass, and an arts, shopping, and dining scene that would make any big city envious, Aspen is a can’t-miss destination. Help to reduce your environmental impact during your next visit with the tips below.
Yosemite and Beyond in California’s Central Valley
Explore the Central Valley’s rich agricultural heritage and tour some of the country’s most iconic national parks.
5 Ways to Experience Oklahoma, Outside
Located across the furthest reaches of the state, these five parks and scenic locales are some of the best ways to experience the great outdoors in Oklahoma.
Exploring the Mines and Murals of Bisbee, Arizona
Bisbee is home to a colorful community and a unique history. From stair climbing marathons, a multitude of murals and a chance to explore a real mineshaft, this former mining town has so much to offer, and will leave you wanting to come back again!
Archaeology Road Trip: The Four Corners Region
For the ultimate archaeology road trip through the Four Corners region, look no further! From the Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings at Mesa Verde National Park to the petroglyphs at Chaco Canyon, the sandstone spires in Canyon de Chelly, and plenty of other incredible dwellings, hikes, and sites in between, this 10-day itinerary is the southwestern archaeology itinerary of a lifetime.
Hike Your Way through Laramie, Wyoming
Deep glacial lakes, alpine meadows carpeted in wildflowers, the awe-inspiring peaks of the Snowy Range, historical sites, wildlife, and great food to keep you going. All in Laramie, Wyoming
Explore the Quiet Corner of Wyoming in Laramie
Laramie is nestled directly between two mountain ranges, flanked by the massive Medicine Bow National Forest. Making Laramie your basecamp gives adventure seekers of all kinds the chance to explore all that the area has to offer.
Pick Your Path in Bishop, California
With so much to discover in the lower 48, we rarely go back time after time to the same destination. But when an area has as much to discover as Bishop, California, it’s easy to book a return trip. This small town with a regional population of 10,000 is nestled in between the Sierra Nevada and White Mountains on the eastern side of the Golden State. Not to be confused with a road-side pitstop on the way to Yosemite National Park, Bishop is a year-round outdoor mecca that knows how to keep its locals and tourists busy.
Jackson Hole Mountain Resort
Jackson Hole Mountain ResortA World-Class Resortjacksonhole.com | info@jacksonhole.com (307) 733-2292National Parks are often the foundation of a vacation. What is built up from that foundation goes beyond the park boundaries: the road trip, the inside jokes, the...
Your Path to Adventure in Estes Park this Fall
After you’ve cast, clip-clopped, or pedaled to your heart’s content, enjoy a meal and a toast downtown. If you are feeling invigorated from all the mountain air, you could even journey to the Estes Park Memorial Observatory after the sun goes down.
Destination Cycling: Cedar City, Utah
The trails and riding areas around Cedar City will thrill any type of cyclist. The sheer amount of available riding in the area is wonderfully dizzying, and the off-bike activities will round out an epic destination cycling trip.
Just can’t wait to return: Pocatello, Idaho
I just love that I don’t have to travel far to find recreation in Pocatello, whether it’s disc golf, mountain biking, or fishing.
Unexpected Adventure in Sturgis, South Dakota
The best cities in the American West combine outdoor fun with community and culture, and Sturgis does it right, especially as we start to make a return to events in 2021 and beyond.
Superior, Arizona: The next town you have to ‘discover’
Some towns carve out unique spaces for themselves as a true mountain destination. They have just the right vibe as you walk down the street, the perfect trails that you can easily find and enjoy on foot or on bike, and food so special that certain dishes will forever remind you of your time there. It takes history, the great outdoors, and intentionality on the part of the community to create a place that sticks out like this. And we just found a new one: Superior, Arizona.
Three Days of Elevated Adventure in Superior, Arizona
“Adventure, elevated” is exactly right—and it’s exactly what we all want right about now. As you look into 2021 and beyond for your next getaway, raise your sights a little higher to Superior, Arizona.
Yosemite: Nothing else like it
Yosemite. One word, four syllables. Not a lot in the way of descriptions, but with Yosemite, it’sall you need. That one word conjures up cloud-crowned heights with crested waterfalls tumbling over the lips of granite monoliths; of deep valleys with quiet streams following their own path through western pines; of meadows with horizonic views. It is a word of Iconic Grandeur.
Emily Taylor
Meet Emily TaylorNational Park Outdoor EnthusiastEmily has been capturing experiences for Visit USA Parks since 2017. Though she’s a Colorado gal at heart, her thirst for travel has taken her to the tip of South America, through the flavors of Southeast Asia, and all...
Emily Taylor
Meet Emily TaylorNational Park Outdoor EnthusiastEmily has been capturing experiences for Visit USA Parks since 2017. Though she’s a Colorado gal at heart, her thirst for travel has taken her to the tip of South America, through the flavors of Southeast Asia, and all...
Things to Do in Colorado: Adventures in Silverthorne
A summertime trip to Silverthorne guarantees a memorable and satisfying experience for young and not-so-young alike.
Experience Culture in Bisbee, Arizona
About ten miles north of the US-Mexico border sits an artsy town called Bisbee, Arizona. Although its’ population of 5,000 people may be considered small, it was once the largest city from St. Louis to San Francisco and considered to be the most cultured town in the west. Now, Bisbee is full of quirky artists, new (and very old) breweries and bars, unique architecture, haunted hotels and a myriad of windy roads and allies to explore by foot.
16 Real Life Winter Wonderlands in the US
For some of us, spending time in places that are like real life winter wonderlands brings an almost indescribable joy. No doubt the Scandinavians have a word for it (think hygge or koselig) since they truly embrace winter. Being surrounded by snow-covered trees with snow gently falling makes the heart beat a little faster with giddy, child-like excitement!
Basecamp close to Canyonlands National Park
I stood at an overlook on the Chesler Park Loop Trail in the Needles District of Canyonlands, struck by how quiet it was. The sun was setting behind me, and all of the candy cane colored rock spires stood at attention in the distance. It was amazing how few hikers there were in this part of the national park. I drove back down the dirt road to the highway, dodging cows in the dark and settled into my basecamp in Monticello, Utah. Over the coming days, I would see how perfectly my travel plans would align with this convenient location.
Discover 6 Unbelievable Sights in Navajoland
Planning a trip to the American Southwest? Make extra time for the sights, sounds and flavors of Navajoland. The Navajo Nation boasts landmarks that range from ancient to otherworldly. Navajo historical and cultural heritage remains strong, and will fascinate even the most intrepid travelers.
Sorry, busy adventuring in North Lake Tahoe!
I was so enchanted by North Lake Tahoe, that I started scheming on where I’d like to live! The water sparkles an enticing shade of blue, and the forest and mountains surrounding the lake are chock full of trails and outdoor adventures.
Yellowstone Road Trip Itinerary: The Black Hills Route
This route is perfect for those who want to experience the beauty of the open road and some of America’s most untamed areas. Your Yellowstone road trip can include so much more than just national parks! Experience an epic American road trip complete with old western towns, intriguing culture, and unbelievable scenery.
Best Places to Visit in Maine: America’s Most Northeastern State
Welcome to Maine! The most Northeastern state of the United States is defined by jagged coastline, rolling mountains, heavily forested interior, and picturesque waterways. It is also recognized by its seafood cuisine, especially lobster and clams. Do you like the sound of amazing food, great scenery and a chance to visit one of the most expansive wilderness areas on the East Coast? Then buckle up, because this itinerary is full of some of the best places to visit in Maine!
10 Ways to Explore Washakie County
Washakie County, Wyoming is a hidden jewel right on the edge of the Bighorn Mountains. These towns might be small, but the opportunity for adventure is huge. Be sure to add Washakie County to your summer road trip itinerary. Trust us, you won’t be sorry.
A Yellowstone Trip that Includes Utah and Idaho
This trip will take you through four states and two national parks and one superb national monument. You travel along the Rocky Mountains and down into the High Plains in this classic western road trip.
National Parks: How Do You Get There?
There is a reason visitors flock to America’s National Parks every year. Unprecedented beauty, untrammeled wilderness and an experience of a lifetime are all reasons that most major National Parks float to the top of every persons bucket list. But in order to experience the majesty of these parks, you first have to get there. The following is a guide to the five biggest International airports nearest to some of America’s most popular National Parks.
Wickenburg: The Old West in a Modern Town
Recently I left my Wyoming home and headed south into Arizona’s desert landscape to explore the town of Wickenburg. Surrounded by unique natural landscapes, it is home to an interesting history, lively streets and friendly faces. If you are headed down to Southern Arizona, Wickenburg is a must for your list of places to visit. It would be easy to spend lots of time in this town, but let’s discuss some highlights from my short visit.
Williams, Arizona: The Grandest Way to See the Grand Canyon
One of two national parks with its own zip codes, the Grand Canyon is one of the most impressive natural marvels on Earth. Layers of colored rock as far as the eye can see, its formation is one of the world’s greatest mysteries, which is partially what makes it so jaw-dropping.
5 Must-See Places in Wind River Country
Wyoming’s Wind River Country is a region that contains one of the most diverse landscapes I’ve ever seen. From lush forests with waterfalls to desert badlands, this part of Wyoming has it all. I was fortunate enough to explore this area for a weekend. The amount of things to do here blew me away. With literally hundreds of great spots in Wind River County, I’ve narrowed it down to five top destinations for you.
The best time to visit the Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area
Most people think about visiting the Flaming Gorge National Recreation area in the warmer months, but have you considered visiting in the spring, before the rest of the world gets there?
Couple your trip to Zion with a visit to St. George
There is no doubt that hiking The Narrows and scrambling up to Angels Landing are high on your list during your visit to Zion National Park. These iconic hikes make Zion one of the most unique National Parks in the country. Once you’re ready to move past the crowds in Zion, retreat to St. George and discover what this scenic, adventure-worthy destination has to offer.
Bishop – Winter in a "Small Town with a Big Backyard"
On the eastern side of the Sierra—just behind Yosemite National Park—sits the town of Bishop, “a small town with a big backyard”. The town is chock-full of great restaurants, shops, fascinating museums, and mountain views in every direction. During the hot summer months, outdoor recreationalists flock to the high peaks. Throughout the winter, though, the options for outdoor activities really open up.
Fishing in National Parks: Secret Spots
Have you always wanted to go fishing in national parks? The national parks system has a huge variety of rivers, lakes, and streams—meaning there are plenty of opportunities to throw in a line during your next vacation. Finding good fishing in national parks can be a challenge, especially with the widespread increase in outdoor recreation. Try exploring these five gems that are home to unexpected fishing spots.
