Hike
Mount Columbia, at 14,073 feet, is part of Colorado’s Collegiate Peaks and lies just north of its loftier neighbor, Mount Harvard. Once notorious for its steep, eroded slopes, recent trail improvements have made this a more enjoyable hike—though it’s still a serious effort. The standard route via the new Columbia Trail remains Class 2, with long mileage, big gain, and sweeping views across Horn Fork Basin.
Read MoreMount Harvard stands at 14,420 feet and is the third-highest peak in the Lower 48. Nestled deep in the Collegiate Peaks Wilderness, it’s a long, non-technical Class 2 hike that rewards endurance with big alpine views and quiet summit solitude. The route is straightforward, but the approach is long—expect a full-day effort.
Read MoreMount Yale rises to 14,200 feet and sits just west of Buena Vista in the Collegiate Peaks Wilderness. Known for its steady trail, big views, and non-technical route, it’s one of the most accessible 14ers in the Sawatch Range. The Southwest Slopes route offers a straightforward Class 2 climb—no scrambling, just sustained effort and elevation gain.
Read MoreMount Princeton stands tall at 14,197 feet and dominates the skyline west of Buena Vista. It's one of the more visually striking 14ers in the Sawatch Range, thanks to its dramatic rise from the Arkansas River Valley. The East Slopes route is a non-technical Class 2 hike, but it’s far from easy—expect loose talus, a long approach, and big elevation gain.
Read MoreMount Tabeguache (pronounced "TAB-uh-wash") stands at 14,155 feet and is often overshadowed by its close neighbor, Mount Shavano. But if you're already summiting Shavano, it's well worth adding Tabeguache to your day. Reached via a rugged ridge from Shavano’s summit, Tabeguache is best known as a “bonus 14er”—but make no mistake, it earns every bit of its elevation gain and sweeping views.
Read MoreMount Antero rises to 14,276 feet and stands as one of the prominent peaks in Colorado’s Sawatch Range. Known for its gemstone-rich slopes and wide, 4WD-accessible roads, Mount Antero offers a unique experience for hikers and off-roaders alike. It’s a Class 2 hike that can be done in a day, though the approach is long and the route is exposed to the elements.
Read MoreTucked away along the Oak Creek in Sedona, AZ is L’Auberge de Sedona. This four star resort should be on everyone’s bucket “must-stay” list if you are looking for luxurious stays. If you are a Sunday brunch kind of human, well, they also have the best Sunday brunch in town. But, good luck getting a room, this spot is almost always booked out, so get on your reservations now.
Read MoreMount Massive, Colorado’s second-highest peak, is the often overlooked step-sibling to the highest peak in Colorado, Mount Elbert, just across the valley. However, climbing this iconic mountain comes with its challenges, and mistakes can quickly turn an enjoyable trek into a tough lesson. Based on personal experiences, here are the top mistakes to avoid when tackling Mount Massive, so you can have a safer and more rewarding adventure.
Read MoreClimbing a 14er—a peak with an elevation of at least 14,000 feet—is a bucket-list adventure for many hikers. However, timing your ascent is crucial for a safe and successful climb. Starting too late can put you at risk of thunderstorms, heat, and other hazards that can turn an enjoyable hike into a dangerous situation. Here’s what you need to know about timing your 14er adventure.
Read MoreColorado is home to some of the most iconic 14ers in the United States, and Mount Massive and Mount of the Holy Cross are two standout peaks in the Sawatch Range. If you’re deciding which to climb first, this guide will help you compare the two peaks based on difficulty, scenery, logistics, and the best times to climb.
Read MoreWaking up later than planned, I crawled out of my van with a packed bag, fueled by coffee and laced-up boots. Clicking my Coros watch to start recording my trek, I set off down the trail for a car-to-car push of Mount Massive. As Colorado's second-highest peak, I felt nervous but confident I could summit in good time. My legs were still sore from climbing Mount of the Holy Cross just a few days before, another challenging 14er in Colorado’s Sawatch Range.
Read MoreReds and oranges filled the sky as the sunrise light reflected off the clouds, a welcome sign some warmth was on the way. This morning in Sedona, Arizona was cold as we hiked to find the Subway Cave, which is said to be the home of a vortex. While I am not totally sure what a vortex is, I wanted to find one. So, down the trail we went.
Read MoreAs passionate photography enthusiasts, we had delved into the works of modern greats who had immortalized Yosemite's breathtaking vistas. However, we aimed to add our own unique twist to this iconic location. Surveying our array of gear and props, we hatched an ambitious plan: to capture a skateboarding photograph careening down the serpentine road leading to Glacier Point. Join us on this journey as we blend the adrenaline of skateboarding with the tranquil majesty of Glacier Point's sunrise, creating a photographic masterpiece of our own.
Read MoreIf you're planning a road trip along Highway 395, Convict Lake is a must-see destination. Nestled in the Eastern Sierra, this picturesque lake offers a serene escape with activities that make it worth visiting for at least an afternoon or even longer. Whether you enjoy hiking, kayaking, fishing, camping, or simply taking in stunning mountain views, Convict Lake has something for everyone. Its unique combination of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and recreational opportunities makes it a destination that should not be overlooked.
Read MoreWhen planning a trip along California's iconic Highway 395, make sure to stop at Convict Lake. Just 10 miles south of Mammoth Lakes, this Eastern Sierra alpine lake is at its best during the summer months. With warm weather, clear blue skies, and endless activities to enjoy, summer is the ideal season to experience all that Convict Lake has to offer. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, this destination offers something for everyone.
Read MoreBridgeport, CA is a pass-through town along Highway 395 that’s filled with adventures, if you’re willing to stop. With one overpriced gas station, two coffee shops, a sandwich shop, and a general store that is rarely open, I didn’t think much of this town at first. But over time, a few of my favorite adventures led me to the outskirts of Bridgeport, CA, and I discovered it has much more to offer than meets the eye. This town is packed with activities like kayaking, rock climbing, hot spring soaking, backcountry skiing, camping, stargazing, and so much more. Below are just a handful of reasons to stop in Bridgeport, CA while road-tripping Highway 395.
Read MoreHot springs on the beach sound like a dream, but in La Ventana, they’re a reality. Just north of this kite-surfing addicted city of Baja Sur lies Playa Agua Caliente, a unique beach where you can soak in natural hot springs at low tide along the Sea of Cortez. These hidden treasures bubble right out of the sand, offering an unforgettable experience for those who make the trip north. The trifecta of secluded beach, desert landscape, and floating islands makes this spot dreamy, at least that is how I felt.
Read MoreWhen Kristin and I were on a family vacation in Cerritos Beach, surfing and swimming filled most of our days. But we craved a change of pace and decided on a sunset hike to an abandoned sugar port near Todos Santos. What started as a spur-of-the-moment decision turned into the highlight of our trip, combining stunning views, historical intrigue, and an unforgettable sunset.
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