GatewayCommunities
Explore smarter, and connect deeper, from one horizon to the other.
Dive into insights on local culture, hidden gems, and the most rewarding ways to immerse yourself in these unique destinations. From essential preparations to fostering meaningful connections, embark on a journey that goes beyond the ordinary.
Aspen, Colorado in 3 days—Sans Crowds!
Without a doubt, the Maroon Bells are some of the most photographed (and clearly most photogenic!) mountains in the USA. Get the most out of your vacation to Aspen, Colorado during a mid-week trip, and with the following itinerary based on insider experiences.
Drift Through Dinosaurland Near Vernal, Utah
150 years ago, John Wesley Powell and his men first explored the Green and Colorado Rivers. The journey began in Wyoming, wound through the intense Utah landscape, and eventually concluded in Arizona. Rafting the Green River from Vernal, Utah follows the legacy of those early explorers. More than a century beyond the historic Powell expedition, the landscape remains unchanged and frozen in time. Soon you’ll understand why this area is commonly referred to as the “origin of adventure”.
Not Just Another Winter Weekend at Taos Ski Valley
I was seeking a different winter vacation; a mix of adventure and culture. With a ski resort towering over the desert, I drove to Taos Ski Valley, New Mexico. The best part of this trip was that I could ski one day, and explore other winter activities on the next! When I needed to rest my legs, I soaked up the rich New Mexican culture that surrounds Taos.
Beyond Tahoe: Wine & Whitewater in California’s Gold Country
The enchanting emerald waters of Lake Tahoe have been luring visitors in for years. Beyond the beauty of the lake lies the scenic Gold Country of California, with a range of attractions and activities ripe for the picking by a true explorer. You can literally raft the American River in the morning, and sip homegrown libations by dusk. Take your pick in this budding nook of California, the charming place where El Dorado and Placer Counties join.
The 3-Day “Squeeze” in Bryce Canyon Country
Southern Utah presents puzzling rock formations, “hoodoos”, slot canyons, and some of the most colorful landscapes in the United States! Travelers visiting Bryce Canyon country will quickly realize that 3 days isn’t nearly enough time to explore the region, but with this “squeeze” itinerary, you can hit some of the area’s highlights.
Lake Powell-America’s Lake
There is a certain stillness that happens to Lake Powell just around sunrise. No wind, no sound of motors or cars or planes. It’s just you, and the ever so slight sound of waves lapping at the shore, as the sun breaks slowly over the eastern skyline and reflects of the mirror-like surface of the water.
Four Season Fun in Livingston, Montana
From the mountains to the monstrous trout, Montana has endless possibilities. Just north of Yellowstone National Park lies the lovable town of Livingston, an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise in every season. While many parts of Montana deal with harsh winters, Livingston is just one of those “banana belt” towns; a place where the sun shines most days of the year and somehow it doesn’t feel bitter cold on snowy days. Year-round, travelers will appreciate the slew of art that Livingston has to offer. There are 17 galleries and counting around town, plus live theater and music on frequent rotation. For the foodies, casual to fine dining is in abundance in Livingston with over 20 restaurants to choose from!
Include Heart Mountain Interpretive Center While Visiting Yellowstone
Yellowstone has one of the most unique landscapes in the United States, and—rightfully so—attracts millions of visitors every year. Travelers to the area should also be privy to some of the other interesting attractions that northwest Wyoming has to offer, such as the Heart Mountain Interpretive Center. The museum is located just over an hour from the National Park’s east entrance. Heart Mountain marks the setting of one of the many confinement sites in the United States that popped up immediately following the attacks on Pearl Harbor during WWII. Peer into the history and lives of Japanese Americans who were imprisoned during Heart Mountain’s 3-year life.
Four Can’t Miss Events in Logan County
The nice weather in Logan County is not the only thing that brings the plains of Colorado to life. The warm air intertwines with the smell of funnel cake, the lights of a Ferris wheel, the anticipation of eight seconds on a bull, the excitement of concerts, and the roar of vintage engines. These aspects add up to create some of the best days of the year in Logan County. That’s right, the concerts, festivals, fairs, rodeos and other events in Logan County not only awaken the locals, but draw in tourists from all over. Pay attention to when you plan on visiting northeastern Colorado because you won’t want to miss the area’s signature happenings!
Winter Family Fun in West Yellowstone
It’s winter and the whole family has cabin fever… what to do? Don’t think twice, just book it to West Yellowstone, Montana. This place is a mecca for outdoor winter adventures, geared toward adults and kids alike. With winter activities at your fingertips, including world-class Nordic skiing and downhill resorts nearby, what’s not to love? The Kids’N’Snow weekends offered 4 times during the winter offer a free opportunity for kids to play outside and try different snow sports. Here’s what you can look forward to during a West Yellowstone winter vacation…
6 Misconceptions about Dude Ranch Vacations
Thought you knew everything there was to know about a dude ranch vacation? Maybe you were right, maybe you were wrong—go ahead, see what you know!
Cody, Wyoming: Western Heritage at its Finest
As I sit here in the snow-covered foothills of a below temperature morning of the Wind River Mountains, my thoughts can’t help but turn to summer. Those easy days of early June where the sun-drenched afternoons carry the scent of apple-blossoms on the wind. You will have to pardon me, if I sound a little nostalgic for those long warm days. But it’s hard not to sound nostalgic when you have your long-johns on. When summer comes, it’s time to do what I love best, travel. And this summer I have my sites set on Cody, Wyoming and the surrounding area.