Congaree protects over 26,000 acres of old-growth hardwood forests in South Carolina. It is most famous for its floodplain lands and its bald cypress trees (known for their “knees” which pop out through the swampy areas). The park is named for the Congaree River which runs through the park (and requires some effort to visit). The park was … [Read more...]
Hiking Posts
Watchman Trail Guide: Zion National Park
Zion National Park has some of the most incredible hikes in the entire National Park System. And so there’s no lack of choice for those visiting. Watchman Trail is not one of the most sought-after hikes, but in some ways that’s what makes it a good choice to visit. It’s pretty reasonable in difficulty and generally not as crowded as those super … [Read more...]
Alpine Pond Trail Guide: Cedar Breaks National Monument
Overshadowed by its National Park neighbors, Cedar Breaks National Monument is a beautiful small monument. The impressive monument sits at over 10,000 feet and has an incredible amphitheater that makes up the canyon. It’s a similar formation in many ways to Bryce Canyon however without all the sheer scale of Hoodoos however. There are several … [Read more...]
Guide to Devil’s Hall Hike | Guadalupe Mountains’ Best Hike
The most popular and certainly best hike of the Guadalupe Mountains National Park, the Devil's Hall Hike takes visitors through several different environments and through a gorgeous steep canyon area (called Devil's hall). There's rock scrambling, hiking, soaring cliffs, desert plants, and old wash, what's not to like? This was by far our … [Read more...]
Queens Garden and Navajo Loop Trail: Bryce Canyon
Quite possibly the best (or at least most popular) trail in Bryce Canyon National Park. The Queens Garden and Navajo Loop combines these two trails into a great loop that gives you up close views of the Hoodoos. There’s so much to see in this short trail which makes it a perfect one for any visitor to the park. If there’s one trail you have … [Read more...]
Taylor Creek Trail [Middle Fork] : Zion National Park
This hike feels like a bit of a hidden gem in the Zion National Park trail network. It’s an idyllic trip through some beautiful wooded areas along a cute creek area. And even more so there’s some extra fun things you can discover as well. Taylor Creek trail is something fun, learn about the hike, the landmarks, and some extra fun things to … [Read more...]
Observation Point via East Mesa Trail Guide: Zion National Park
One of my favorite views over the canyon, Observation Point is a beautiful spot to look down on not just the canyon but also get some great views looking towards Angel’s Landing as well. The trail is an easier moderate trail among the trails of the park which much of it well marked and ambling. There is some elevation gain but it comes … [Read more...]
Lower Emerald Pool Trail Hike: Zion National Park
One of the best easy trails in Zion, the Lower Emerald Pool trail takes visitors to a beautiful lake and waterfall. This is one of the favorite hikes of many visitors to the park. Here we explain how to do the hike. About the Hike Distance: 1.4 miles | Type: Out & Back | Avg. Time: 30 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Dog … [Read more...]
Serpents Trail Guide: Colorado National Monument
One of the more popular trails in Colorado National Monument, the serpents trail takes visitors along an old roadway for views over the surrounding area. This post hopefully will help you decide if it's the right trail for you, with details on the hike, parking, and more. About the Serpents Trail Distance: 3.5 miles | Type: Out & … [Read more...]
Hanging Lake Trail: Glenwood Springs, Colorado
Someone randomly mentioned the Hanging Lake Trail to me and once I looked it up I knew I had to visit. What I didn’t realize is how beautiful it is in person and how popular too. We help you break down how to book your permit, getting there, and having the best hike on the trail as well. About the Hanging Lake Trail Distance: 3 miles … [Read more...]
Canyon Overlook Trail: Zion National Park
For those looking for a short hike with a great payoff, the Canyon Overlook Trail is the best option in Zion. At only 1 mile in length, hikers can see a stunning view and a fun hike along the canyon. Read on to learn more for advice and hike information. About the Hike Distance: 1 mile | Type: Out & Back | Avg. Time: 30 mins | … [Read more...]
Elkblom & Big Plateau Loop – Theodore Roosevelt National Park
I love Theodore Roosevelt National Park, and when I recommend folks to go, it is this hike; the Elkblom & Big Plateau I recommend most of all. It is the best day hike in the park and one where you’ll get to experience beautiful views, see wildlife, cross a river, and experience some wild North Dakotan places. About the Hike Distance: … [Read more...]