These are some of the most underrated national parks in the U.S. where you can get off the beaten path and unwind in nature. Great Smoky Mountains, the country’s most-visited park, saw over 13 million visitors in 2023. That’s a recipe for busy trails, limited parking, and sitting in traffic when you should be out exploring. If you want to leave some of the crowds behind for a more authentic outdoor adventure, plan a trip to these underrated U.S. national parks.
While most tourists head to Rocky Mountain National Park, Great Sand Dunes is also worth visiting. It’s dog-friendly, which is rare for national parks, and offers unique views of the dunes against distant mountain peaks.
Don’t underestimate how challenging it is to hike to the top of a dune—from there, you can try sand-boarding to the bottom. There’s plenty of room to spread out at Great Sand Dunes, so it never feels crowded, and you can stay past sunset to enjoy incredible stargazing.
4. Badlands – South Dakota
Visit for: wildlife, venturing off-trail, fossils
I consider the entire state of South Dakota underrated—especially Badlands National Park. From the striking rock formations to the fascinating exhibits on fossils and gems, the park has much to offer.
Watch for bison, prairie dogs, and bighorn sheep while visiting. The Badlands are also one of the few outdoor areas where off-trail hiking is allowed, letting you wander to your heart’s desire.
3. Black Canyon of the Gunnison – Colorado
Visit for: dramatic viewpoints, intense hiking
Black Canyon of the Gunnison is another Colorado national park worth adding to your sightseeing itinerary. Admire sweeping overlooks of the canyon from accessible viewpoints, ideal for travelers of all ages and fitness levels. For a physical challenge, consider hiking into the canyon to gain a new perspective on the stunning natural area.
I technically haven’t been to North Cascades National Park, but the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest that borders it is one of my favorite places to hike in Washington. I’ve heard fantastic things about the North Cascades area and its hiking trails. It also gives visitors the opportunity to rock climb, bike, boat, and more.
1. Canyonlands – Utah
Visit for: epic views, off-roading
Many overlook Canyonlands for other Utah national parks like Arches and Zion—this vibrant desert area is as captivating as the Grand Canyon but far less popular. I visited over July 4 weekend and it was almost empty compared to Arches.
Canyonlands boasts picturesque viewpoints, hikes, and remote roads leading you through dramatic canyons. It will make you feel like you stepped onto the set of a thrilling Western movie!
Have you been to any of these underrated U.S. national parks? Let me know what you thought in the comments.
Looking for more national parks info? Check out my other travel guides:
Travel movies are an excellent way to cure your wanderlust and find inspiration for the next adventure. I love movies about travel that highlight captivating landscapes and experiences around the world. It’s fun to temporarily transport yourself somewhere else while watching, and it can help you decide where you want to go in the future. These are my favorite travel movies, and some bonus outdoor horror picks for my fellow scary movie watchers!
Must-Watch Movies About Travel
The Secret Life of Walter Mitty
Image via Empire Magazine.
I remember instantly falling in love with The Secret Life of Walter Mitty while watching it in theaters in 2013. It was an incredibly impactful film because I was a freshman in high school learning to navigate the world around me and find what felt truly fulfilling in life. The Secret Life of Walter Mitty isn’t a perfect movie, but it has everything you want for an inspirational, lighthearted watch: stunning scenery, touching moments, and lots of laughs.
Valley Uprising
Image via IMDb.
While rock climbers will especially love Valley Uprising, I’ve shared it with many non-climbers who also enjoyed the documentary and found it interesting. Valley Uprising dives into the history of climbing in the Yosemite Valley from the 50s to the mid-2010s. It has a killer soundtrack and many scenes to make your heart race and your palms sweat.
Wild
Image via Cinema Faith.
Wild is based on a memoir by Cheryl Strayed, who documented her time hiking on the Pacific Crest Trail after facing some personal challenges. This is a darker, more dramatic travel movie that covers many difficult issues. I definitely cried the first time I watched Wild because of the excellent performances and spot-on song choices.
Into the Wild
Image via MovieWeb.
I’ll be the first to admit that the Into the Wild story is problematic in some regards. It recounts the true tale of Christopher McCandless, a nomad who traveled across America and eventually starved to death in the Alaskan wilderness. Several others have passed away in real life pursuing the abandoned bus featured in the movie, where McCandless lived out his final days.
McCandless also made some avoidable mistakes during his adventure that contributed to his untimely passing. I consider Into the Wild an artistic depiction of one man’s efforts to live his life to the fullest, at times risking his safety and personal relationships to do so. Take the movie with a grain of salt and learn from McCandless’s real-life legacy.
180° South
Image via Rotten Tomatoes.
180° South will instantly make you want to book a plane ride to Chile. This travel documentary follows a man as he attempts to sail from California to Patagonia. He aimed to recreate a trip that Yvon Chouinard and Doug Tompkins, outdoorsmen who founded the Patagonia and North Face brands, respectively, took in 1968. It’s a wild ride with plenty of entertaining and heartfelt misadventures along the way.
The Way
Image via UTracks.
If you’re unfamiliar with the Camino de Santiago, I suggest watching The Way. It’s an emotional story about a father who embarks on a long-distance European hiking trail to honor his son, who passed away on the same journey. Travelers have been making the pilgrimage from France to Spain along the Camino de Santiago route for centuries. The Way will inspire you to learn more about the trail and tackle it yourself one day.
Mile… Mile & a Half
Image via Rotten Tomatoes.
One of the first movies to make me want to try backpacking was Mile… Mile & a Half. I stumbled across this movie on Netflix and watched it with my family—we all loved it. The documentary centers on a group of friends attempting California’s John Muir Trail. It features breathtaking views and paints a beautiful picture of friendship and the close-knit backpacking community.
BONUS: Horror Travel Movies That Will Make You Want to Stay Home!
The Ritual
Image via Forbes.
The Ritual is set in Norway, and the rugged landscapes are stunning. This movie has some genuinely terrifying moments and an overall unsettling vibe. You might rethink your next camping trip after watching it! Just remember to stay on the trail and avoid taking shortcuts…
The Descent
Image via IMDb.
Don’t watch The Descent if you get easily claustrophobic. I hate caves in real life which made me hesitant to watch this spelunking-inspired horror movie. It’s also set in Appalachia, which hits a little too close to home since I grew up in Georgia. Today, The Descent is one of my favorite scary movies of all time—I can also safely say I have no plans to go caving ever again.
The Blair Witch Project
Image via Game Rant.
The Blair Witch Project is a found-footage horror classic about a group of filmmakers who go missing in the Maryland woods while searching for a spooky local legend. This movie is infamous for its clever marketing strategy, which convinced many audience members that the events were real, and impressive box office returns despite being made on a budget. It’s a slow burn and not for everyone, but some of the scares leave a big impression.
Drop your travel movie recommendations below so I can add them to my watch list!
Are you debating whether taking a gap year is worth it? Read this first! I’m sharing essential gap year pros and cons and some ideas to help you decide. I took a gap year after high school, which was very personally valuable. There are some drawbacks, but a little preparation goes a long way to make the most of a year off between school or other commitments.
For context: I dual-enrolled in 11th and 12th grade and took freshman-level college classes while simultaneously attending high school. As a result, I went straight into sophomore year when I returned to college after my gap year.
Gap years sometimes get a bad rap, and you’ll hear many stereotypes that people who take gap years are procrastinating their responsibilities or slacking off. There can be some truth to this, but it’s also true that gap years can be beneficial and positively impactful. Here are some gap year pros and cons to consider based on my own experience.
Pro: Working to save up money
Saving money is one of the most popular reasons people take gap years. I started working hourly jobs at 16 and had two part-time positions at different points throughout my gap year. This helped me save some spending money before starting college. While I could have worked more hours during my gap year, I wanted to maximize my time living at home (aka free—thanks, Mom and Dad!) and have a good work-life balance for traveling, hanging out with loved ones, and pursuing new hobbies.
Con: Feeling a step behind
This may be an isolated experience, so take it with a grain of salt, but there were times I felt out of touch with friends heading straight into college. While I had plenty of free time, my friends had classes, homework, projects, and sometimes work.
Taking a full year off of school was a blessing for which I’m so thankful—I just didn’t know anyone going through the same phase of life. Having someone to relate to in these niche life moments can help you feel not so alone in challenging times.
Pro: Prioritizing mental health
In the spirit of being transparent and open about something a lot of people go through: I started seeing a counselor during my gap year. Since my schedule was emptier than usual, I had much more downtime than I was comfortable with. I quickly learned I had a tendency to use school, internships, and work as a distraction from some aspects of my mental health that I was struggling with. Through counseling, I was diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder and mild depression.
I don’t believe there should be a stigma around seeking help for your mental health concerns. With the help of medication, routine counseling sessions, and opening up to my close friends and family, my symptoms became significantly more manageable. Having access to these resources is something I don’t take for granted, and I’m glad I took advantage of them in my newfound free time. It was uncomfortable at times, but reaching out for help was incredibly positive overall.
Con: Getting back in the groove of going to school
Adjusting to college life can be challenging after a gap year. You’ll likely become comfortable setting your own schedule (to an extent) and having the flexibility to explore different opportunities. School can feel restrictive and limiting—to be fair, you must sacrifice some time for classwork.
I thoroughly enjoyed my time in college, so getting used to the schedule and cadence of school again took a little bit of time. There was a learning curve, so give yourself some grace the first week or two of the semester.
Pro: Pursuing new interests
Throughout my gap year, I worked, participated in an internship, and explored and challenged myself in new areas of interest. I fell in love with backpacking and took several multi-day trips. I started a work-trade program at a local yoga studio, took tons of classes, and learned some new skills. I went on a cross-country road trip that deepened my love for travel. I started working at a rock climbing gym where I made lifelong friends, became a stronger climber, and had the rewarding opportunity to step into a management position. Overall, I learned what fulfills me and what I genuinely enjoy doing.
Pro: Having time to prepare for college
I enjoyed having a year to tour colleges and apply for scholarships. I ended up at what I consider the perfect school to start my college experience—I transferred after my first year but still had the best time. While there, I met one of my closest friends to this day and had some incredible experiences while living in a stunning area of North Georgia. I fondly look back on those days and am so grateful for every second of them!
What are your thoughts on taking a gap year? I’d love to hear your thoughts and how you spent your gap year!
I took a stroll down memory lane revisiting my 2022 Colorado Summer Bucket List, and it inspired me to do an updated all-seasons version! I’ll be moving out of the state soon and have been reflecting a lot on how thankful I am to have spent the past four years in Colorado.
It hasn’t always been peaches and cream, but I’m so grateful for the experience of living in such a beautiful state and getting to see so much of it. Since I checked everything off my summer bucket list, here are the 10 best Colorado activities to do throughout the year.
1. Get to the top of a 14er
Regardless if you drive, hike, or ride a train, I highly suggest getting to the top of a 14er (a mountain at least 14,000′ tall) one way or another. It’s a really unique experience to be at high elevation and see how different the environment is above the tree line. Watch for marmots and pikas, and enjoy the 360-degree views.
2. Hike in Maroon Bells
Hiking in the Maroon Bells area is a quintessential Colorado experience. The gorgeous mountain peaks are located near Aspen, making them the perfect day or weekend trip. Fall is an exceptionally beautiful time of year to visit, but the landscape is picturesque year-round. Crater Lake is a beautiful, family-friendly hike with scenic views.
3. Go leaf-peeping
Colorado is famous for its stunning autumn foliage, and leaf-peeping is an essential fall activity to admire the golden aspens. Areas like Breckenridge and Aspen (shocker) are popular for their expansive aspen groves.
4. Try a new sport
There’s something active to do in Colorado year-round, from whitewater rafting and mountain biking in the summer to skiing and snowboarding in the winter. While in Colorado, I worked on my (very limited) ski and snowboard skills. Trying a new sport as an adult can be challenging, but it’s really rewarding when you start to get the hang of things.
5. Visit all four national parks
Make time to visit Colorado’s four national parks: Rocky Mountain, Great Sand Dunes, Mesa Verde, and Black Canyon of the Gunnison. They’re each unique and worth seeing for different reasons. Whether you love hiking, stargazing, wildlife-watching, or history, Colorado’s national parks have it all.
6. Attend a concert at Red Rocks Ampitheatre
Technically, I haven’t seen a musical performance at Red Rocks yet…but I did take a yoga class! Getting up early on a Saturday to stretch in the cool morning air and watch the sunrise was unforgettable. Sharing that experience with the hundreds of people surrounding me was incredibly special and definitely worth the early wakeup call.
7. Soak in a hot spring
Colorado has many hot springs to explore, and Mount Princeton is one of my favorite day trips from Colorado Springs. Try to visit when temperatures are a bit chilly so you can fully enjoy the springs. Most hot springs in Colorado are pretty commercialized, but there are some less popular ones you can only reach on foot.
8. Walk through Garden of the Gods
You can’t miss Garden of the Gods during your next trip to Colorado. This stunning Colorado Springs park is full of vibrant red rock formations. The iconic geologic features in Garden of the Gods make it perfect for strolling around and snapping pictures.
9. Sleep in the hotel that inspired “The Shining”
Head to Estes Park and spend a night at the Stanley Hotel, if you dare. The hotel inspired Stephen King to write “The Shining” after he slept in Room 217, rumored to be one of its most haunted spots. This fascinating historic building has a reputation for its supposed resident ghosts and dark, storied past.
10. See the Flatirons in person
The Flatirons, a series of five large rock features near Boulder, are breathtaking in person. They dominate the skyline and are a top attraction for nature lovers. Hike around the base of the mountains to admire them from below or scramble up the Second Flatiron, the easiest to climb. Arrive early, as this outdoor area is almost always busy.
I’m so grateful to have checked every item off my Colorado bucket list! There are many more things I’d like to see and do throughout the state on future visits. What can’t-miss activities are on your Colorado bucket list?
Looking for more fun things to do in Colorado? Check out my other Colorado travel guides:
I’ve called Colorado Springs home for the last four years, and I’m excited to finally share my perfect Colorado Springs weekend itinerary! While you could spend a week exploring Colorado Springs and not see the same thing twice, three days is ideal for experiencing all the highlights. Here’s exactly how to spend three days in Colorado Springs, from outdoor adventures to indoor activities and plenty of food and fun in between.
3-Day Colorado Springs Weekend Itinerary
Friday
Start your weekend in Colorado Springs on the right foot by exploring one of the city’s most iconic sights: Pikes Peak. Afterward, spend the afternoon exploring the adorable city of Manitou Springs. Catch sunset at Garden of the Gods before grabbing a casual dinner and preparing for an early start on Saturday.
Morning
You can’t visit Colorado Springs without going to the top of Pikes Peak! Known as America’s Mountain, it towers 14,115′ in the air. There are several ways to summit Pikes Peak: driving up via Pikes Peak Highway, taking the Cog Railway, or hiking.
If you’re comfortable tackling the steep and winding mountain road, I recommend driving. You’ll have plenty of flexibility to stop at viewpoints along the way and spend as much time at the top as you like. The Summit Visitor Center opened in 2021 and is definitely worth seeing—make sure you try the freshly made donuts.
The Cog Railway is excellent for families who want an immersive Pikes Peak experience. It is a bit pricey, but you’ll get unique views and fun facts from the conductors. Keep in mind you will have limited time at the summit if you buy roundtrip tickets.
Hiking Pikes Peak is incredibly challenging but rewarding. The most popular route is the Barr Trail, which is over 12 miles one way. You’ll gain about 7,800′ of elevation during the hike, so I only recommend it for experienced hikers. This is also the most time-consuming option, as many break the hike up into two days and camp overnight.
Altitude sickness is very common, so watch for symptoms like headaches, fatigue, dizziness, and nausea. Consider turning back and descending in elevation if you start feeling ill and your symptoms don’t improve. Remember to stay hydrated and listen to your body!
Afternoon
After seeing Pikes Peak, grab lunch and spend the afternoon exploring Manitou Springs. This charming city has gorgeous views, Victorian architecture, quirky shops, and delicious restaurants. Some of the most unique activities in Manitou Springs include an old-school Penny Arcade and a castle built in the 1890s!
Evening
Once evening rolls around, it’s time to visit Garden of the Gods. The Visitor and Nature Center is a fantastic place to get information about the park’s history, trails, and wildlife. There’s also a top-notch gift shop with local goods and a tasty cafe where you can grab a coffee to refuel. They host lots of fun events like stargazing parties, ranger-led nature walks, and wildlife workshops.
There are many walking paths throughout Garden of the Gods, making it perfect for visitors of all ages and ability levels. You don’t even have to leave your car to see jaw-dropping views of the striking red rock formations! Watch for bighorn sheep, which you can periodically spot around the park.
Garden of the Gods is conveniently located near several delicious restaurants. Colorado Mountain Brewery and Trinity Brewing Co. are some of my favorites. Even if you don’t drink beer, their food is really yummy. I recommend turning in early so you can be fully rested for tomorrow’s morning hike!
Saturday
Get an early start if you want to embark on a weekend hike in Colorado Springs. Afterward, you can indulge in a tasty brunch before freshening up for an afternoon of shopping. Saturday night is also an excellent time to explore bars and restaurants in the downtown area.
Morning
There are many beautiful and unique hikes in and around Colorado Springs. Here are some of the best hiking areas, depending on how far you feel like driving.
You’ve probably worked up an appetite after your morning hike. If you stayed local to Colorado Springs, I recommend Adam’s Mountain Cafe or Denver Biscuit Co. for brunch. The city has a fantastic variety of coffee shops, too. I love grabbing a cup at these spots:
Take a few hours to rest before going shopping around town. There are some great thrift shops, boutiques, and outdoor stores worth checking out. These are my favorite local shops (most of them are downtown and within walking/biking distance of each other):
Once you’ve shopped til you’ve dropped, spend the evening enjoying downtown Colorado Springs. The city has it all, from Italian to Mexican, Irish, Indian, and more. I personally recommend these restaurants and bars:
The Rabbit Hole – great date night spot and super cool experience because it’s underground and Alice in Wonderland-themed.
You deserve a relaxing day after yesterday’s adventures! Sleep in and keep things low-key with an activity the entire family can enjoy. Then, explore one of my favorite Colorado Springs neighborhoods and visit a top-notch brewery.
Spend your final afternoon in Colorado Springs strolling around Old Colorado City. This historic area has delicious restaurants and eclectic stores. It’s a good place to find farmer’s markets, seasonal festivals, live music performances, and art shows throughout the year.
Evening
End your weekend in Colorado Springs at a local brewery. They’re some of my favorite places to people-watch and catch up with friends. Many breweries are dog-friendly, and you’ll find everyone from families to couples and solo travelers enjoying a brew. Here are some can’t-miss spots:
I hope you have the best getaway with my ultimate Colorado Springs weekend itinerary! Let me know in the comments how you would spend three days in Colorado Springs.
Looking for more fun things to do in Colorado? Check out my other Colorado travel guides:
From Washington to South Dakota and everywhere in between, these are the 10 best national parks I’ve visited (so far). Over the years, I’ve seen 16 of the 63 national parks located throughout the United States. I’d love to visit them all someday, and I try to explore at least one new national park every year.
Regardless of how many national parks you’ve visited, I hope this inspires you to plan a trip of your own!
10. Black Canyon of the Gunnison
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park in Colorado was a pleasant surprise. My husband and I visited during a road trip and had no expectations—we were blown away by the dramatic scenery. While I didn’t have much time to explore Black Canyon, I was in awe of the views from each overlook we stopped at.
I recommend visiting Black Canyon if you’re in the area, as it makes a great itinerary add-on. However, I don’t think centering an entire trip around the park is worth it unless you plan to do some serious hiking.
9. Badlands
Badlands National Park holds a special place in my heart, as I have family in South Dakota and first visited the area as a kid. I consider South Dakota a criminally underrated travel destination, and the Badlands are a must-visit.
Expect to see wildlife like bighorn sheep and bison, unique rock formations, and centuries of history while exploring the park. Don’t forget to visit the nearby town of Wall, a quirky location that’s famous worldwide.
8. Rocky Mountain
You can’t go to Colorado without seeing Rocky Mountain National Park. There are many beautiful hikes ranging from easy to strenuous, and the mountains are stunning year-round.
In the summer, you can swim in alpine lakes, while winter is the perfect time snowshoe or cross-country ski. Rocky Mountain is an excellent vacation spot for adventurers of all ages.
7. Joshua Tree
Joshua Tree National Park is another one that took me by surprise. I only spent 24 hours in the park, but it was an unforgettable experience. The rocky landscape looks otherworldly, and I loved seeing all the cacti and desert plants. My favorite thing about camping in Joshua Tree was staying up late to watch the night sky—I’ve never seen so many shooting stars in my life!
6. Olympic
Olympic National Park is one of the most diverse parks I’ve been to. It has everything from coastlines to glaciers and rainforests. The scenery here is lush and captivating—you could spend days exploring without seeing the same thing twice. Make your way out to the Olympic Peninsula next time you’re in Washington.
5. Arches
You’re probably familiar with Arches National Park for its iconic Delicate Arch formation. It’s definitely a bucket list-worthy sight, but the park offers so much more.
Regardless if you’re exploring on foot or by car, you’ll be awestruck by the colorful rocks and desert views around every corner. Of Utah’s five national parks, Arches is one you can’t overlook.
4. Grand Teton
Seeing Grand Teton National Park in person feels like stepping back in time to the 1800s. The jagged peaks, rushing rivers, and rugged forests are so stunning, you’ll never want to leave. Grand Teton boasts some of the country’s most picturesque scenery and feels like a true wilderness area.
3. Canyonlands
Get off the beaten path to explore the best that Canyonlands National Park offers. This park ranks so highly for me because my husband and I embarked on a spontaneous journey along an unpaved, 4WD road while there. The canyon views were like nothing I’ve ever seen, and we had the best time escaping the chaos of the park’s main paved roads.
2. Yellowstone
You probably aren’t surprised to see Yellowstone National Park in second place. Yellowstone is an incredibly famous park, and for good reason. The geysers, hot springs, waterfalls, and wildlife areas throughout it offer something new with every visit. This is another park I only had one day to explore but would 100% return to.
1. Mount Rainier
Of all the parks I’ve visited, Mount Rainier National Park is the best, in my opinion. Seeing Mount Rainier in person for the first time was a dream come true, and I fall in love all over again every time I return.
Something about the mountain’s imposing beauty sparks my sense of adventure, and the surrounding glaciers, meadows, and forests feel like a fairytale. If you only have time for one hike in the park, make it the Skyline Trail (Naches Peak Loop Trail is another favorite).
What do you think of my national parks ranking? Let me know which one I should visit next down below!
I’ve got the perfect national park road trip itinerary if you dream of an epic weekend adventure throughout Colorado and Utah! My husband, Solomon, and I recently hit the road to tackle four parks in three days, and it was the best time.
We’re based in Colorado Springs but moving to Alaska (!!!) soon, so we wanted to take advantage of what time we have left in Colorado by exploring some national parks within driving distance. We somewhat spontaneously decided to visit Black Canyon of the Gunnison, Arches, Canyonlands, and Mesa Verde in one long weekend.
I already made a short video of our national park adventures (watch it here), but I want to share more details on how we made it happen in case you’re interested in planning a similar road trip.
Day 1: Colorado Springs -> Black Canyon of the Gunnison -> Moab
Solomon and I originally planned on visiting only the Utah national parks (Arches and Canyonlands). Once we hit the road, we realized we could easily add Black Canyon of the Gunnison and Mesa Verde as well! One of my goals before moving from Colorado was to visit all four national parks in the state, and we’ve already explored Rocky Mountain and Great Sand Dunes.
Tomichi Point
We left Colorado Springs around 8:30 a.m. on a Friday and made it to Black Canyon around 3:30 p.m. Unfortunately, a detour near Gunnison delayed our trip by about an hour, but at least we got to see some pretty views along the way!
Neither of us had expectations for Black Canyon, and it was an incredible surprise. The canyon was genuinely jaw-dropping to see in person, and we stopped at nearly every viewpoint along South Rim Road. Our favorites were Tomichi Point and Sunset View. Of course, pictures don’t do it justice whatsoever.
We spent about an hour and a half in Black Canyon before continuing to Moab, another three hours away. The sun was already setting when we arrived and checked in at HTR Moab Lodge & Cottages. This was the perfect place to spend two nights in Moab. We booked a studio cottage with a queen bed, bunk beds, a kitchenette, and an attached bath—everything you could need! It was also pet-friendly and just minutes from downtown Moab, but quiet and peaceful.
Day 2: Arches -> Moab -> Canyonlands
Day two began with an early 4:00 a.m. wake-up call because our goal was to hike to Delicate Arch for sunrise.
Note: depending on the time of year you visit Arches National Park, you may need to a timed-entry permit to enter the park. Since we arrived before 7:00 a.m., we did not need a reservation.
We arrived at the trailhead a little before 5:00 a.m. and started the hike. When we hit the trail, the parking lot was already beginning to fill up—another reason to get an early start. The hike to Delicate Arch is around three miles roundtrip, with steady elevation gain. There were some steep portions, but we didn’t find it too strenuous and only took one or two quick water breaks.
When we reached Delicate Arch between 5:30 and 5:45, the sun was just starting to peek over the rocks. Lots of people were gathering to watch the sunrise and take turns snapping pictures of the iconic rock formation. We hung out here for about half an hour before meandering back to the parking lot.
After returning to the car, we followed the main road through the park north to see the Fiery Furnace and Devils Garden areas. We briefly hiked around Devils Garden to Tunnel Arch and Pine Tree Arch but mostly drove around, admiring the views and stopping at random overlooks that caught our eye.
Pro tip: bring plenty of water, snacks, and sunscreen! This area gets incredibly hot and you don’t want to get dehydrated, hungry, or sunburnt while exploring.
Temperatures were quickly rising, so we stopped to check out the visitor center around 9:30 a.m. before heading back to Moab. We grabbed coffee and breakfast burritos from Nuclear Bean Coffee Co. and returned to our cottage for a quick shower and a power nap.
Around 2:30 p.m., we left the cottage to explore downtown Moab. We started at Lop’s Pop Stop, an adorable coffee and soda stand with an extensive menu of refreshing drinks. We walked around downtown Moaab and shopped for a bit—my favorite spot was Desert Wild.
We wolfed down a late lunch at Trailhead Public House and Eatery after realizing the Island in the Sky Visitor Center at Canyonlands would be closing within the hour. We soon hit the road again and arrived at Canyonlands National Park just before 5:00 p.m.
From the visitor center, we drove south to Grand View Point Overlook, where we stopped to take in the landscape. It definitely lived up to its name! On the way back, we also stopped at Green River Overlook and drove over to Upheaval Dome, though we didn’t get out to hike.
Solomon was interested in exploring Shafer Trail Road, an unpaved 4WD route into the canyon. The road was rough, but our Subaru Outback handled it just fine. After consulting the map, we decided to follow it along the Colorado River to connect with 279, leading us back to Moab.
We spent about two hours on Shafer Trail Road, which was our favorite part of the weekend. Getting off the beaten path in Canyonlands felt like stepping onto the set of a Western film. The canyon and river views were stunning, and we only saw a handful of other cars along the way. You need a 4WD vehicle to tackle the road, but I highly recommend exploring it if possible.
Once we arrived back in Moab shortly before 9:00 p.m., we grabbed “dinner” at Side Hustle Ice Cream Shop (next door to Trailhead). It was the perfect sweet treat to end a full day of adventures, and they didn’t skimp on the sprinkles! We ended the night on the front porch of our cottage, watching the stars begin to peek out over Moab.
Day 3: Moab -> Mesa Verde -> Home
The following day, we slept in a bit and left Moab around 8:30 a.m. On the way out, we grabbed coffee at Cafe Italiano, a downtown food truck. Mesa Verde National Park was only two hours from Moab, so we arrived at the visitor center between 10:30 and 11:00 a.m.
The drive from the visitor center to the Chapin Mesa area (where some cliff dwellings are located) took about 45 minutes. Unfortunately, we couldn’t get spots on a ranger tour of the dwellings, so we couldn’t enter them. Seeing them from a distance was cool, but there wasn’t much to do without a tour group.
On our way out of the park, we saw signs for homemade frybread, which Solomon hadn’t tried before. A super friendly couple was making the frybread fresh with locally-milled flour. They recommended trying it with salt and a drizzle of honey, and it was so tasty! The flavor was reminiscent of kettle corn, and it had a soft, pillowy texture.
Our final stop was Telluride for lunch, and we made it back home in time to cook dinner and get a full night’s rest before returning to work the following day.
All in all, this was an incredible trip! I’m so glad we pulled it off and decided to be spontaneous. Canyonlands was our favorite national park on this trip, but I think all of them are worth visiting for different reasons.
Have you been to Black Canyon, Arches, Canyonlands, or Mesa Verde? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments!
Can you believe how quickly December is flying by?! With only one weekend left before Christmas, now is the best time to start planning a fun holiday getaway before the holiday madness really kicks in. This guide to the 5 Best Colorado Christmas Towns highlights some of the most charming and festive towns I recommend visiting for a day or weekend this holiday season.
Breckenridge is the first Colorado Christmas town I recommend visiting for the 2022 holidays. Located a little over an hour and half west of Denver, Breckenridge is known for being a super charming mountain town with lots of personality. Skiing and snowboarding are some of the most popular winter activities in Breckenridge, but the quaint town also offers snowshoeing, sledding, tubing, shopping, and much more!
Estes Park
Another classic Colorado Christmas town is Estes Park, which is about an hour and a half drive north of Denver. Estes Park is considered the gateway to the Rockies since it’s located just a few minutes from one of the main entrances to Rocky Mountain National Park. Estes Park is the perfect destination for a holiday getaway because of the endless festivities the town plans throughout the winter months. Estes Park is also an outdoor-lovers paradise offering plenty of snow activities.
A list of the best Colorado Christmas towns would be incomplete without including the home of the North Pole! Manitou Springs is a small town located just outside of Colorado Springs that is full of Christmas spirit around the holidays. The main street through Manitou is lined with cafes, bars, and shops, and a short drive up Highway 24 will take you to the North Pole amusement park! After exploring Manitou Springs, I recommend making the short drive over to Colorado Springs to continue the festivities. Colorado Springs is home to lots of holiday markets and seasonal pop-ups, as well as some incredible shopping and dining that make it an awesome place to spend an afternoon or an entire day.
Georgetown
Georgetown is a lesser-known Colorado Christmas town that is a seriously underrated holiday destination located less than an hour west of Denver. Georgetown is super charming year-round, but the town especially comes alive around the holidays when the historic buildings and homes are decked out in Christmas decorations. Georgetown also hosts several Christmas markets and events that are well-worth a visit.
Last, but certainly not least, on this list of the best Colorado Christmas towns is Vail. Vail is well-known for having some of the best skiing in the country, and this Bavarian-style town is an amazing holiday destination. From a festive 5k to a Christmas market and plenty of opportunities to get out and have some fun in the snow, Vail is hard to beat.
I hope this guide to the 5 Best Colorado Christmas Towns is helpful as we approach the holidays. Let me know in the comments what your favorite Colorado town to visit around Christmas is, and I hope you have an excellent holiday season surrounded by loved ones!
Over the years, I’ve been incredibly fortunate to have the opportunity to visit 11 of the 63 National Parks that can be found throughout the U.S. While all were unique and interesting in their own way, there were definitely some I loved more than others. This is my ranking of the Top 5 U.S. National Parks that I’ve visited so far. As a bonus, I’m also sharing the top 3 National Parks on my travel bucket list that I haven’t yet been to!
Top 5 U.S. National Parks
5. Badlands
Fun fact: I actually used to live in South Dakota as a kid! I have a lot of family there and still love going back to visit because I think South Dakota is a super underrated state. Similarly, I don’t see too many people talking about Badlands National Park, even though it’s one of my favorites. The landscape is super unique and looks like something you might find on another planet. Plus, the park is full of wildlife ranging from bison and bighorn sheep to prairie dogs.
4. Yellowstone
I would actually love to return to Yellowstone National Park and explore some more because my husband and I only got to spend one day in the park when we visited. Still, Yellowstone is such a classic that I highly recommend everyone take a visit. There’s a huge variety of wildlife and landscapes, and it’s unreal to see the massive hot springs and geysers in person. There’s a reason Yellowstone is one of the most popular National Parks!
3. Olympic
Olympic National Park is one of those places you have to see for yourself to believe. I mean, where else in the U.S. can you spend a day exploring rocky beaches, snow-capped mountains, glacial rivers, and thick rainforests? Olympic National Park is full of biodiversity that makes every visit unique from the last.
2. Grand Teton
In my humble opinion, Grand Teton National Park is probably one of the prettiest areas in the entire country. The mountains look absolutely unreal in person, and the whole park feels wild and rugged. Grand Teton is another park I’d love to return to and spend more time exploring because there’s so much to see and do!
1. Mount Rainier
Of all the National Parks I’ve gotten to visit so far, Mount Rainier National Park is undoubtedly my favorite. Seeing Mount Rainier up close and personal is an amazing experience, and you truly can’t fathom its grandeur until you’re seeing it with your own eyes. Plus, Mount Rainier National Park is where I saw my first wild bear! The whole park feels so magical and is absolutely stunning year-round.
Top 3 U.S. National Parks Bucket List
3. Glacier
Glacier National Park in Montana is one National Park I’ve been wanting to visit for years. The mountains look insanely dramatic and I’ve heard the park is absolutely full of wildlife. Plus, I’d love to pay a visit to RightOnTrek’s EDGE Backpacking Gear Rental Facility that just opened this year. I love that RightOnTrek works to make the outdoors accessible for as many people as possible. And, they make delicious backpacking meals!
2. Yosemite
As someone who loves both hiking and rock-climbing, Yosemite National Park sounds like an absolute dream. I’ve seen so many documentaries about Yosemite and I would love to pay the park a visit in the next couple years. I’ve actually never been to California, so I hope to make a trip out of it and explore a few different areas throughout the state!
Alaska seems to be one of the last truly wild places left in the U.S., and I would absolutely love to spend some time exploring Gates of the Arctic National Park. The wilderness of Alaska looks intimidating but also incredibly beautiful, and I definitely plan on taking a trip to the state – hopefully, sooner rather than later!
What’s your favorite U.S. National Park, and which one would you like to visit next? Let me know in the comments!
Fall is in full swing here in Colorado and I wanted to share some ideas for fun seasonal activities to do throughout the state before winter kicks in!
Leaf-Peeping
A signature Colorado fall activity is leaf-peeping, or venturing out to admire the changing leaves. Aspens in particular can be found all throughout the state and turn vibrant shades of yellow and orange in the fall. You can enjoy leaf-peeping by going on a hike (check out my 2022 and 2021 leaf-peeping blogs for ideas) or taking a drive along a scenic road, such such as Guanella Pass (more ideas here).
Scenic Train Ride
Another fantastic way to enjoy the changing leaves in Colorado is by embarking on a scenic train ride. There are tons of train ride options tht range from short, family-friendly rides to longer adventures that take you all across the state. Popular fall train ride options include the Georgetown Loop Railroad and Royal Gorge Railroad, but you can find more here.
Haunted Towns and Roads
If you want to tap into your spooky side, consider visiting one of Colorado’s many ghost towns or (allegedly) haunted roads. From Gold Camp Road in Colorado Springs to the abandoned town of St. Elmo near Buena Vista, there are all kinds of spooky places to explore in Colorado, and many have very rich and fascinating histories. Check out this Colorado Ghost Towns guide to plan your visit!
Fall Festivals
There are all kinds of fall festivals throughout Colorado that offer fun and unique activities for the whole family. Whether you want to pick some pumpkins and apples or sample a variety of beer and wine, there’s a Colorado fall festival out there for everybody to enjoy. You can find a full list of this year’s fall festivals on the official State of Colorado website.
What are your favorite fall activities in Colorado?
Wandering the Gap 