Visiting Valley of the Gods in southern Utah is like stepping into another world, where towering sandstone formations stand tall against the clear, blue sky. Valley of the Gods is part of the Cedar Mesa region and is made up of sandstone monoliths, pinnacles, buttes, and other geological features. A visit involves driving the curving…
For me, Petrified Forest National Park is the literal definition of a hidden gem (in more ways than one!). First off, it truly does feel actually hidden. It’s located off of I-40 in northeastern Arizona, in the middle of what seems to be barren wilderness. Once you get off the interstate and start driving through…
Saguaro National Park is located just outside of Tucson, in the very southern part of Arizona. This national park was the first one designated to protect a plant – the saguaro cactus. Saguaros (pronounced suh-wahr-oh) are the most “stereotypical” cactus – it’s what you imagine when you hear the word “cactus” or imagine a Wild…
Exploring the best slot canyons in the Southwest is one of my favorite things and has led to some incredible hiking experiences. Truly, these are some of the most visually stunning and geologically fascinating landscapes in the United States. Plus – who can deny that exploring a slot canyon just feels like an epic adventure??…
I’ve traveled all over southern Utah, Arizona, and Nevada, but Valley of Fire State Park is truly one of the most stunning, jaw-dropping places I’ve visited in the southwest United States. As you are driving in from Las Vegas, you’re going through barren, scrubby land with tan-gray, non-descript hills and mountains around you. Then, you…
National Parks in Utah are absolutely incredible, but sometimes you just want to get off the beaten path, escape the crowds, and discover something new. If that sounds like you, these are the hikes you need to check out! I love southern Utah – it’s probably my favorite spot in the entire United States. The…
Canyonlands National Park is one of the most unique and awe-inspiring landscapes in the United States. Located in southeast Utah, close to Arches National Park and not far from Goblin Valley State Park and Capitol Reef National Park, this desert park offers visitors the opportunity to explore dramatic canyons, towering mesas, and iconic sandstone formations…
Saguaro National Park is an awe-inspiring park filled with the magnificent saguaro cacti – the tall, “stereotypical” cactus that lives 150 years and can grow to be 12 feet tall! These cacti, found only in the Sonoran Desert, are such an incredible sight, and spending 1-2 days in Saguaro exploring the park, hiking the trails,…
Thinking about spending one day in Petrified Forest National Park? Read on for my detailed guide of what to see and do. For me, Petrified Forest National Park is the literal definition of a hidden gem (in more ways than one!). First off, it truly does feel actually hidden. It’s located off of I-40 in…
Sedona is a nature lover’s paradise, as the town is surrounded by dozens of scraggly red mountains and interesting rock formations. As someone who adores red rocks and hiking, I was basically in heaven in Sedona. This is a special place! This 5-day Sedona itinerary is designed for people who primarily want to do a…