United States

Pinnacles National Park is located just over two hours outside of San Francisco (depending on the traffic). It was designated the 59th national park in 2013 and while it is small it offers beautiful views and unique wildlife viewing. Keep an eye out for California condors on this hike! This trail is...

While the General Sherman Tree is the main attraction in this area, the Congress Trail allows you to get away from the majority of the crowd and explore the giant sequoias at your leisure. The vast majority of visitors only walk to and from the General Sherman Tree. The trail starts out from the Gen...

Once you make it to the parking area (parking fee required) to Brasstown Bald you will be at about 4284 feet elevation. From there you will have a short (0.6 mile) but steep hike to the tower that sits atop Brasstown Bald. Along the path you will see Rhododendron and various other blooms depending o...

Mystic Falls is located in the Biscuit Basin area of Yellowstone National Park. Biscuit Basin’s parking lot is approximately 2 miles north of Old Faithful along Grand Loop Road. Start your hike along the Biscuit Basin boardwalk. The boardwalk provides access to several thermal features including the...

This is a great and easy day hike that features two waterfalls - Alsea Falls and Green Peak Falls - amid beautiful Oregon Coast Range scenery. This hike is perfect for a family trip as the trail is dog-friendly, the Alsea River serves as a swimming hole on hot days, and there is a picnic area just a...

Blue Lake is a great spot to spend a night next to the lake but is also the perfect escape if you're looking to get away for just the day. The stars at night are worth the trip alone, as it's far away from light pollution. It gets a little windy sometimes but there is plenty of cover and trees to ta...

This hike is worth its weight in gold. By far one of the most beautiful places in all of New Mexico. Located in the Carson National Forest, the options for camping are limitless. Did I mention this is ranked one of New Mexico's best hikes yet it rarely gets done. The potential for solitude is very l...

The Dog Mountain trailhead is located halfway between Stevenson and Bingen. Look for the big signed parking area just after milepost 53 (Eastbound). The parking lot fills up quickly, especially during peak wildflower season, so if you can go on a weekday that would be better. There are 3 trails to t...

Set your tent up next to a wall of tall boulders. This campground can offer a little shade, which is key especially during the warmer months. At the campground, there are 124 first-come, first-serve sites for $10 per night. Each campsite comes available with a picnic table and fire ring. The campgro...

The hike to Upper Lena Lake is a beautiful one. It first takes you past Lena Lake, which is a very popular weekend destination for families. Luckily you're pushing on to Upper Lena Lake that sits in a peaceful alpine meadow with Mt. Lena and Mt. Bretherton towering above. The first part of the trail...

The Pacific Northwest has an abundance of beautiful, technical and fun Alpine ascents. For those looking to feel the rush of mountaineering but not wanting to push for a summit attempt, Illumination Rock on the southwest ridge of Mt Hood, offers a beautiful way to spend an afternoon or potentially m...

Valley of Fire is a place that will exceed your expectations. It’s kind of small but packs a punch. Just an hour outside of Vegas, it’s the perfect retreat for anyone who is in need of a reprieve from the city lights. Anyone who has heard of this park is likely familiar with the Fire Wave . What you...

Bear Mountain is one of the more difficult hikes in Sedona but has very easy access. There is a parking area between Doe Mountain and Bear Mountain. The trailhead is across the street and the initial approach is very flat. The red rock bluff you first see on the approach is only part of Bear Mountai...

Rattlesnake Gulch Trail is located in Eldorado Canyon State Park. It is a short 20 minute drive from Boulder and is one of three hikes in the park. You will need to pay an entrance fee to get inside to the park which costs $8. The trail is approximately 2.8 miles one way and carries a consistent and...

You will arrive at a parking lot that is on the mainland. Once parked, you will need to walk across the land bridge to Cana Island where you will come to a small building to pay an admission fee. Hours and Fees are below. Once on the island, you can walk around and explore the light keeper's house, ...

Once thought to be the highest peak in Virginia, this 2.5 hour hike is one that will leave you speechless at the top. Park at the Peaks of Otter Nature Center (which is now closed). The trailhead is located to the right of the building. You will cross over a paved bus road soon after beginning the h...