National Parks tend to get all the attention—and for good reason. They’re home to some of the most iconic landscapes in the country, with some of the most magnificent National Parks concentrated in the western US. But also scattered across the west are dozens of National Monuments that quietly protect places just as scenic, fascinating,…
National parks are some of the most incredible places to hike in the United States, but not every trail has to be an intense, all-day trek. Some of the best hikes in the national parks are short, easy, and still packed with amazing scenery—whether it’s a dramatic arch in the desert, a peaceful forest trail,…
If you like a bit of adventure and a really unique type of hike, Spooky Gulch and Peekaboo Slot Canyons are absolutely an experience you need to have! These vibrant orange, pink, and red-orange canyons have twisting, turning trails and super tight, super narrow passages and make for an unforgettable hike. Both canyons are part…
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! To help you discover the best of what Sedona has to offer, I’ve put…
The area around Antelope Canyon (near Page, Arizona) is just delightful. This region right along the Utah-Arizona border is filled with rich, red rocks, tall mesas, and deep canyons. Antelope Canyon is certainly the most famous of the “attractions” in this area, full of curving, undulating walls and shafts of light. You have Lake Powell…
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…
Utah’s oft-forgotten national park is filled with soaring mountains, steep canyons, colorful rock formations, historic buildings, and some truly fantastic hikes… Capitol Reef is one of the least visited national parks in Utah – but it shouldn’t be. There are SO many incredible sites here! The park was established to protect the Waterpocket Fold, a…
While Sedona is famous for sweeping vistas and dramatic rock formations, but not every trail is all sun and slickrock, and West Fork Oak Creek offers a totally different vibe. West Fork Oak Creek is an idyllic hike along a stream in a tall, red canyon in north Sedona, reminiscent of the Narrows hike in…
Saguaro National Park, located in southern Arizona, offers a unique desert experience, with great weather in wintertime, and perfect for a 1-2 day visit. This park showcases the iconic saguaro cacti and diverse desert landscapes that can be enjoyed through scenic drives, a range of easy to moderate hikes, and beautiful overlooks. With its stunning…
