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A waterfall and broad view of the colorful red and green layers of Waimea Canyon

Go Beyond the Beach: Explore Hawaii’s Waimea Canyon

They call Waimea Canyon the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. Imagine it with more color and tropical foliage, less crowded, and more wild. This canyon is more than just a deep cut in the earth. It’s a living ecosystem. Native Hawaiian plants cling to the canyon walls, rare birds flit through its cliffs and waterfalls flow from its edges, making it an excellent place for a hike.   What Makes Waimea Canyon So Special  Waimea Canyon stretches over 10 miles...

A 17 foot tall bronze statue of a man with his arms raised sits on a concrete slab

Explore Theodore Roosevelt Island in Washington, DC

Washington, DC, might be a bustling metropolis, but nestled amidst the Potomac River lies a haven for nature lovers and history buffs alike: Theodore Roosevelt Island. This national park, dedicated to the memory of the conservationist president, offers more than just stunning scenery – it’s a hiker’s happy find with a hidden monument. Amidst the bustling energy of Washington, D.C., Theodore Roosevelt Island serves as a wilderness retreat. Amidst the Potomac River, the island offers a refreshing escape from the city....

low rock wall surrounded by trees with grave markets in the background

Discovering the Secret Cemeteries in Shenandoah National Park

After three weeks of searching for cemeteries in Shenandoah National Park, I was still stunned by how much the trails could change in mere days. When I first arrived, most of the trees and bushes were nearly bare, and it was easy to find old ruins and gravestones. Now, the foliage is denser, and the forest is overtaking everything. As I hiked alongside the babbling brook in the dying light of day, parts of the path were thick with tall...

Quimixto waterfall

Hiking to a Puerto Vallarta Waterfall in Quimixto

Finding a Puerto Vallarta waterfall isn’t that hard, but getting there can be an adventure. And that’s where the fun is. Waterfalls are common in the jungle, but they’re not always easy to get to. The Quimixto waterfall, however, is one of the most popular and easiest to see. I use the term “easiest” relatively. If you’re staying in Puerto Vallarta, you must take a bus and a boat. You might also need a mule or a hike to get...

A dark red steel bridge surrounded by green trees

New River Gorge National Park: Explore the Beauty of West Virginia

The New River Gorge in West Virginia is the newest national park in the United States. This little-known location wasn’t on my radar for a long time, but I’m glad I found it. This park is worth visiting if you like outdoor recreation, history and spectacular views. I’ve been to 29 national parks and there are the types that are closed off like a theme park and those that are part of the community that you might drive through on...

5 Activities to Try in Great Smoky Mountain National Park

The Great Smoky Mountain National Park is a park like no other with abundant wildlife and frequent bear sightings. It’s been on my list too long, but I finally made my way to it for a three-day trip I won’t soon forget. Three Reasons Great Smoky Mountain National Park is Famous Great Smoky Mountain National Park is famous for its “smoky” vistas, extensive hiking trails, and density of wild black bears and synchronous fireflies. It’s one of the most popular...