Big Sky Montana was on my radar for years. So when a friend's 30th birthday trip to Napa Valley was canceled last summer, I knew exactly where to go instead. With unbelievably gorgeous scenery, proximity to multiple national parks, and an endless number of outdoor (read: naturally socially-distanced) things to do in Big Sky Montana, it was the perfect destination. If you've heard of Big[...]
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[...]
Growing up, our dogs always came to the beach and on road trips. They even got their own stockings at Christmas. So it makes perfect sense that as an adult, my dogs became my adventure partners. From camping and family hiking to watching sunsets at the beach, everything is better with a dog. However, not every place necessarily welcomes dogs with open arms. People travel with their pups[...]
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[...]
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[...]
If you're anything like me, your sense of wanderlust has been stronger than ever in recent months. There finally seems to be a light at the end of the proverbial tunnel, things are slowly but surely returning to "normal," and mannn those cheap flight deals are tempting. Let's be honest, though: everyone else has the same idea. No matter how tempted I am, what makes me hesitate to hit "c[...]
Ahh, the Great American Road Trip. Whether you're road-tripping to several national parks or have no destination in mind at all, there's nothing quite like it. There't the exhilarating freedom of the open road, the small towns that pack a tremendous punch (I'm lookin' at you, Big Sky), the quirky roadside diners, the off-key singalongs, the endless snacks. Road trips certainly aren't ne[...]
It's safe to say that after 2020 – AKA the year that just wouldn't end – people all over the world are experiencing a collective case of major wanderlust. Fortunately, infection rates continue to decrease and vaccines are being distributed on a wide scale, so international borders are slowly but steadily beginning to reopen to travelers. While that's wonderful, it also means that th[...]
7