Arizona is arguably one of the most iconic states, synonymous with the Wild Wild West and the American Southwest.Aside from being stunningly beautiful and richly historic, Arizona is also insanely diverse. Seriously, how many other places can you go from sweating in triple digits in the harsh desert to needing a jacket in the high alpine forest in just two hours?!Regardless of what draws y[...]
Have you ever traveled somewhere and fallen way more in love with it than you expected? That was my experience with South Dakota last fall. I suspect it's not just me, though (right?) — South Dakota is unequivocally, if not largely unexpected, a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and adventurous souls. I don't want to speak for anyone else, but prior to visiting, when I thought of South[...]
You truly can't go wrong with a visit to Montana. Any time of year, any part of the state, for any reason. Between its national parks (Glacier and Yellowstone, arguably two of the most spectacular in the National Park Service), epic hiking, jaw-dropping scenery, wildlife viewing, and Montanans' genuine niceness, Big Sky Country truly has something for everyone. One way you can make y[...]
In today's world where most of us are increasingly "plugged in" and stress levels are higher than ever, it's extremely difficult to truly relax — to unplug, if you will. So it's no surprise that camping is enjoying an unprecedented moment in the spotlight (and by association, so are camping must haves). After all, camping provides a long list of health and wellness benefits: it boosts yo[...]
In the last couple of years, more people than ever before have discovered the wonders of America's national parks. According to the National Park Service, 15 national parks set visitation records in 2020 alone! I'm thrilled that so many people have a newfound love for The Great Outdoors, but I honestly don't love the crowds. And the traffic. And having to reserve campsites as early as a ye[...]
Let's be honest: New Orleans has a (well-earned) reputation for being a hub of incredible food, fascinating history, legendary live music, and, well, let's just call it what it is — partying. But outdoor recreation? Not so much. The Big Easy is indeed the destination for foodies, history buffs, music enthusiasts, and any sort of celebration. BUT there's actually a lot more to this fan[...]
There's nothing quite like a Big Sky Montana summer — and in particular, Big Sky hiking trails in the summer. It's stunningly beautiful and (with a few exceptions) largely uncrowded, one of the few remaining places where you might actually have a trail or stream all to yourself. Might. If you're even remotely outdoorsy, summer in Big Sky is paradise. Waterfalls are flowing, wildflower[...]
Are you an occasional hiker or interested in getting into hiking? Or at the opposite end of the spectrum, do you regularly explore new trails with your family or put in for every famously hard-to-get hiking permit there is? Whichever applies to you, there's no question that high-quality hydration packs for women make a world of difference. A properly-fitted hydration backpack holds all[...]
I'm unquestionably adventurous, but I'm not necessarily a thrillseeker or what you'd call an adrenaline junkie. I love hiking and snorkeling, and floating the Snake River in the Tetons was one of my all-time favorite experiences — but you're not likely to catch me, say, skydiving. That's precisely why hiking Angels Landing in Zion National Park (or any other most dangerous hikes in th[...]
I remember every detail of my lunch date on January 1st, 2020. That was the day I found out about winning The Wave Arizona lottery — the first time. As we waited for our food, my lunch date said, "I just got my email about The Wave Coyote Buttes permit!" I assumed it was a rejection letter, identical to the one I received. But he started reading and it wasn't a rejection at all. It st[...]
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