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All in United States
Just outside of Anchorage, AK in town called Girdwood there is a local waterfall hike called Chutes and Ladders. This incredible waterfall hike is tricky to find, as it is unmarked on any map and there are no trail signs to get there. However, once you find the first rope, leading down into the canyon, the fun begins.
Emerald Bay, a stunning destination in Lake Tahoe, sits among the Sierra Nevada Mountains with its crystal-clear waters, dramatic landscapes, and captivating history. This enchanting bay draws visitors from around the world, and it’s easy to see why. If you’re planning a trip, here’s what you can look forward to.
You don’t need much to go for a hike, which is perfect for van life. Toss on a pair of shoes, ideally something a bit sturdy, and head out for a walk in the woods, desert, mountains, where ever your van is parked. I’ve lived on the road for 8 years now, in a van, focused on getting outside as much as possible to snap pretty photographs and reflect upon the question, “Why am I here?”
We had a crazy idea, let’s road trip down Highway 395 in our self-converted van (watch the video tour of our dodge promaster 2500) with kayaks and explore as many bodies of water as possible. We only had a week, so how much could we cram into a single outing? We were not sure, but we wanted to try. So, would five bodies of water be too many, ten? Now, I’ll admit neither of us are good at kayaking, heck we can barely get in the kayaks without flipping, but that doesn’t matter. What matters is that we committed to the idea and have loads of fun along the way.
Did we succeed? Kind of.
There is no better place to visit for an adventure than Yosemite National Park. A bold statement no doubt, but here’s why? From jaw dropping views to rock climbing to hiking to backpacking to skiing to photography, Yosemite is the perfect place to immerse yourself in raw nature. These seemingly unlimited options lead to one main issue, paralysis by analysis. Meaning, there is so much to do in Yosemite knowing where to begin is a challenge.
Few road trips start as grand as this one, but our road trip, in search of fall colors, was going to be different.
Starting at Lake Tahoe’s iconic Emerald Bay on a crisp morning, the Rivian R1S had the seats down and was loaded to the brim with camera gear, dog toys, suitcases, snacks, and hiking gear. Kristin, Chestnut (our dog), and myself were in for an adventure of a lifetime. Seeking fall colors throughout Northern California, we had planned a week long road trip looping from Lake Tahoe to Yosemite National Park back to our home in Lake Tahoe via as many backroads as possible.
My phone binged with an alert from Aurora, an app I had downloaded when I started chasing the Northern Lights in 2023. The message read, “Do to high aurora activity, it might possible to see the aurora in your location right now.” However, since it was 2 pm in the afternoon and the skies were cloudy I knew it wasn’t going to happen, but the alert made me ask the questions; If I could see the aurora tonight in Lake Tahoe, CA where would I want to see it? Could I photograph it?
I got thinking…
Stretching from the Mexican to Canadian border, the Pacific Coast Highway spans the entire length of the United States west coast and is one of the great American road trips. With just over 1,650 miles filled with breathtaking coastal views, often glorified in surf media, and some of the cutest towns in America, it’s no wonder this the Pacific Coast Highway is calling the names of all those whom live van life. Yet, who will answer the call? Maybe, not enough. However, for those who road trip along the kinda terrifying, winding, two-lane road of the PCH, memories from a once-in-a-lifetime trip that will leave you reminiscing on the grandeur of this van life road trip. So, click that seat belt and continue reading about why you should drive your van the entire length of Pacific Coast Highway.
The rugged cliffs of California’s Central Coast and the vast Pacific Ocean define the Big Sur area as a destination calling hikers, road trippers, and photographers with its dramatic landscapes, unspoiled wilderness, and stunning views. With towering redwoods, rocky beaches, and scenic highway, Big Sur feels like a place where nature rules. If it’s your first visit to this wild stretch of coastline, you’ll be in awe of the sheer beauty and diverse outdoor activities available. Whether you’re hiking along coastal cliffs, standing in awe of McWay Falls, or simply soaking in the sunset at Bixby Creek Bridge, Big Sur is a place you won’t forget. Here's what you should do to experience the magic of Big Sur like a seasoned adventurer.
As the crisp autumn air begins to sweep through California, Big Sur transforms into a breathtaking destination to experience the beauty of fall. With vibrant coastal colors, cooler temperatures, and seasonal festivities, it’s the perfect time to explore this stunning stretch of the Pacific coast. Whether you're here for a quiet retreat or thrilling adventures, Big Sur offers the ultimate fall experience. Here’s why Post Ranch Inn should be your home base, along with must-visit spots and activities to make your trip unforgettable.
Reno Tahoe is transforming into a spooky wonderland this Halloween, offering a wide range of thrilling events, from costume-filled bar crawls to terrifying haunted attractions. Known for its unique mix of eerie fun and family-friendly activities, the region has something to offer for visitors of all ages.
Joshua Tree National Park is a unique desert wonderland that enchants visitors with its striking landscapes, rugged rock formations, and iconic Joshua Trees. Located at the junction of the Mojave and Colorado deserts in Southern California, this vast and arid park offers a wealth of adventure for those seeking to experience nature in its purest form. Whether you're into hiking, rock climbing, stargazing, or simply soaking up the raw beauty of the desert, Joshua Tree provides a multitude of outdoor activities. This guide will help you make the most of your first visit, with the best adventures and tips to navigate the park.
As the vibrant colors of fall blanket the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Lake Tahoe transforms into an ideal autumn escape, combining crisp air with breathtaking scenery. For those seeking a luxurious getaway amidst nature, the Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino in Incline Village is offering an unforgettable vacation experience with their enhanced beachside amenities and exciting outdoor activities. While many associate Lake Tahoe with summer adventures, this fall is the perfect time to experience the beauty of the region in a more relaxed and serene atmosphere.
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, located in California’s southern Sierra Nevada mountains, are home to towering sequoias, dramatic landscapes, and abundant wildlife. While both parks are vast and packed with adventure, it’s possible to see some of their most iconic sights in just one day. To help you make the most of your visit, here are 10 essential tips for visiting Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks in a day.
A new report from the National Park Service (NPS) reveals the significant economic impact that visitors to Grand Canyon National Park had on local communities in 2023. The report shows that the 4.7 million visitors to the park last year spent an impressive $768 million in nearby towns, supporting 10,100 jobs and contributing $1 billion to the local economy.
Northern California is a region known for its stunning natural beauty, offering everything from rugged coastlines and towering redwoods to serene lakes and scenic mountain trails. But while summer often steals the spotlight, fall is Northern California’s best-kept secret. In the autumn months, the landscape transforms, the crowds thin, and the weather strikes a perfect balance for outdoor adventures. In this guide, we’ll take you on a fall road trip through Northern California, showcasing the best places to visit, what to do, and why this season is a hidden gem.
If you're dreaming of an unforgettable island vacation, look no further than the stunning Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa on the sun-soaked south shore of Kauai, Hawaii. Nestled on 50 acres of oceanfront paradise overlooking the breathtaking Keoneloa Bay, this luxury resort offers everything you need for a dream summer getaway. Whether you're planning a family vacation, a romantic escape, or a multigenerational retreat, Grand Hyatt Kauai promises an experience filled with relaxation, adventure, and cultural enrichment.
San Diego, California, is a coastal gem known for its year-round pleasant weather, stunning beaches, and vibrant cultural scene. With a perfect blend of outdoor adventures, family-friendly activities, and a laid-back lifestyle, San Diego offers an array of experiences that cater to both thrill-seekers and those looking to relax. Whether you're hiking coastal trails, surfing world-class waves, or exploring local landmarks, this guide will help you make the most of your first visit to San Diego.
