We love national parks, but they can get packed. These national monuments have the same spectacular landscapes, hikes, and adventures, without the crowds.
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Published:
Sep 5, 2024

## I Went to Yellowstone National Park to Learn Why it Turns Tourists Into Morons

Petting bison, cooking food in geysers. Ride along with our writer on a wild trip to our nation's most iconic national park at the height of tourist season to see all the bad behavior.

Published:
Sep 5, 2024

## We've Never Found a Travel Neck Pillow That Works. Until Now.

Nothing sucks more than a nodding head on long flights. These are the only neck pillows worth carting along, according to our travel editors.

## The 11 Best Trips to Take This Fall

In most of the world, the crowds of summer have thinned, the temperatures are perfect, and prices are dropping. What are you waiting for?

Originally Published:
Sep 3, 2024
Updated:
Sep 4, 2024

Sponsor Content: North Lake Tahoe

## Discover North Lake Tahoe’s Secret Season

What’s better than leaf-peeping? Leaf-peeping with Lake Tahoe and the Sierra Nevada as a backdrop.

Published:
Aug 30, 2024

Sponsor Content: Rambler Sparkling Water

## Make Your Next Road Trip the Best One Yet

Enter for a chance to win the ultimate road-trip essentials prize package

Published:
Aug 30, 2024

Sponsor Content: Visit Reno Tahoe

## The Country’s Best Ski Town Is a City

Discover the ultimate winter base camp in Reno Tahoe

Originally Published:
Aug 29, 2024
Updated:
Sep 4, 2024

## 8 Simple Rules for Visiting Your Friends in Mountain Towns

Ever since I moved to a beautiful town in Colorado, people have been coming to visit. I want to see them all—and there are a few things guests can do to help me out.

Originally Published:
Aug 29, 2024
Updated:
Sep 2, 2024

Sponsor Content: Rambler Sparkling Water

## 10 Tips for Your Best Road Trip Yet

Expert travelers share their advice on packing, route planning, and more

Originally Published:
Aug 27, 2024
Updated:
Aug 28, 2024

Sponsor Content: Alabama’s Beaches

## The Ultimate Beach Break

With endless stretches of white sand and outdoor adventures for everybody, Alabama's Beaches will amaze you

Originally Published:
Aug 27, 2024
Updated:
Aug 28, 2024

Sponsor Content: Alabama’s Beaches

## Escape to Alabama's Coast

Beautiful white sand shores, outdoor adventures, the nation's best recreational trail, and unique attractions make Alabama Beaches the perfect destination for your summer vacation

Originally Published:
Aug 27, 2024
Updated:
Aug 28, 2024

## The 9 Best Mountain Towns in the Southeast, Ranked

Our National Parks columnist, who lives in Asheville, North Carolina, shares his favorite southern towns for outdoor access, wilderness, and scenery. Who says the West is best?

Published:
Aug 26, 2024

## The 13 Most Beautiful Places on Earth

These spectacular deserts, islands, rivers, and peaks are off the regular traveler’s radar—and at the top of our new bucket list

Originally Published:
Aug 25, 2024
Updated:
Aug 26, 2024

Sponsor Content: Montana Tourism

## 8 Ways to Explore a Whole Other Side of Montana

If off-the-beaten-path is on your agenda, Eastern Montana has you covered

Originally Published:
Aug 23, 2024
Updated:
Aug 29, 2024

Sponsor Content: Authentic Walton

## Florida’s Best-Kept Secret

Take a deep dive into Florida’s Panhandle, where the natural wonders and charming neighborhoods of Authentic Walton offer a traveler’s paradise

Published:
Aug 23, 2024

## 6 Best National Parks in Europe, According to Our Parks Expert

Our national-parks expert headed across the Atlantic to explore. From northern Finland to the Italian coast, these spectacular spots topped her bucket list.

Published:
Aug 21, 2024

## The 13 Worst Travel Mistakes We’ve Ever Made

From pricey foreign driving fines to late-night ant attacks, our travel correspondents reveal trip snafus they don’t want to relive

Published:
Aug 20, 2024

## The 5 Best Places for Animal Lovers to Go on Vacation

Trust us: the puppies, kittens llamas, and pigs are worth the trip

Originally Published:
Aug 19, 2024
Updated:
Aug 22, 2024

## I Visited All 63 National Parks. This Was My Absolute Favorite.

People often ask me which park I liked the most. My answer surprises them.

Published:
Aug 15, 2024

## The 10 Best Bike Towns in the U.S., Ranked

A lifetime cyclist, our columnist pulled the data and weighed other factors to determine the most bike-friendly small towns across America

Published:
Aug 12, 2024

## Check Out These Cool New Lodges near Our Favorite National Parks

These cool new lodging options are within striking distance of some of the country’s most popular national parks

Originally Published:
Aug 8, 2024
Updated:
Aug 14, 2024

Sponsor Content: Travel Wyoming

## 9 Ways to Experience the Wild Side of Wyoming

Follow the tracks of Wildly Wyoming adventurers to mountain bike, rock climb, fly-fish, and experience western culture across the great state of Wyoming

Originally Published:
Aug 5, 2024
Updated:
Sep 4, 2024

## This Is Colorado’s Most Adventurous Small Town

Most people heading to Colorado don’t know about this gem of a town in the San Juan Mountains in the southern Rockies. But they should.

Originally Published:
Aug 5, 2024
Updated:
Aug 14, 2024

## Where to Find the Darkest Skies in North America for Aurora Hunting and Stargazing

You’ll be counting stars and catching the Northern Lights at these one-of-a-kind dark-sky retreats

Originally Published:
Aug 1, 2024
Updated:
Aug 2, 2024

Sponsor Content: Travel Texas

## 4 Ways the Texas Gulf Coast Will Amaze You

Turn every day into a journey of discovery while exploring the region’s wildlife and watersports

Originally Published:
Jul 29, 2024
Updated:
Aug 5, 2024

## These Are the Coolest Surf Towns in the U.S.

Our columnist has spent over 20 years in lineups across the country and says these coastal towns offer good waves, food, and vibes—and embody surf culture

Originally Published:
Jul 28, 2024
Updated:
Aug 4, 2024

## The 7 Most Affordable Countries to Travel to Right Now

Our travel expert experienced firsthand how far the dollar goes in these adventure-packed destinations. Put them on your vacation radar, too.

Published:
Jul 25, 2024

Sponsor Content: Visit California

## The Ultimate California Road Trip

Explore the Golden State on a journey from San Francisco to Kings Canyon

Originally Published:
Jul 24, 2024
Updated:
Aug 28, 2024

## The 11 Best Adventure Memoirs to Read on Your Vacation. (They’re Juicy.)

The authors of the season’s best new vacation reads get naked about what it takes to climb through a panic attack, patch up a marriage, and come back from the dead

Originally Published:
Jul 24, 2024
Updated:
Jul 25, 2024

## The Best Places to Watch This Weekend’s Perseid Meteor Shower

Our astrotourism expert shares tips on how to maximize your view of the year’s brightest meteor shower, peaking on August 12

Originally Published:
Jul 22, 2024
Updated:
Aug 8, 2024

## Wanna Hike in California? These Are the 13 Most Stunning Trails.

A longtime Golden State hiker reveals her dream list of the most beautiful, must-see routes in California

Published:
Jul 18, 2024

Sponsor Content: Travel Texas

## Plan the Ultimate Family Vacation in West Texas

How to take your wild child (or children) on a western adventure they’ll never forget

Originally Published:
Jul 17, 2024
Updated:
Aug 29, 2024

Sponsor Content: Courmayeur Mont Blanc

## The Insider’s Guide to the Heart of the Italian Alps

Located at the base of Mont Blanc, Courmayeur is an alpine heaven for adventure, views, and mountain culture

Originally Published:
Jul 16, 2024
Updated:
Sep 4, 2024

## The 15 Most Beautiful Beaches in the World

Our farthest-roaming travel writer reveals her favorite stretches of sand, from a sheltered cove in Greece to a stunning outpost in North Carolina. Which looks best to you?

Originally Published:
Jul 15, 2024
Updated:
Jul 24, 2024

## This Is the Most Underrated State for Outdoor Adventure

The Mountain State has it all: rivers, 36 state parks, nine state forests, our newest national park, and a nearly million-acre national forest. Our travel expert reveals his favorite ways to get outside here.

Originally Published:
Jul 14, 2024
Updated:
Jul 30, 2024

Sponsor Content: New Balance

## Run Your Way in Los Angeles

Mallory Kilmer was nervous for her first run in Los Angeles, but the community there made her feel right at home

Published:
Jul 11, 2024

Sponsor Content: Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority

## The Outdoor Enthusiast’s Guide to Charlotte

A local’s tips for experiencing the adventurous side of the Queen City

Originally Published:
Jul 10, 2024
Updated:
Aug 21, 2024

## Whales Have Been Attacking Boats in Orca Alley. This Family Just Sailed Through It.

We’ve always been thrilled to see orcas near our home in Alaska. But sailing through the waters along the Iberian Peninsula, where 600 boats have been hit—and five sunk—by whales, was unnerving at best.

Originally Published:
Jul 9, 2024
Updated:
Jul 10, 2024

## The 10 Best Short Thru-Hikes in the U.S.

Most of us don’t have time to leave work and life behind for months of trekking. These backpacking trails will give you a glimpse into thru-hiking life, alongside some of the most stunning scenery in the nation.

Originally Published:
Jul 7, 2024
Updated:
Aug 27, 2024

Sponsor Content: Toyota

## 8 Bucket-List Multisport Adventure Races

Test your skills (and limits) in America’s wildest adventure challenges

Originally Published:
Jul 3, 2024
Updated:
Aug 13, 2024

## A Doctor’s Tips on How to Prevent Altitude Sickness

At 5,000 to 7,000 feet, you might have trouble catching your breath. Higher, you may get a pounding headache and nausea. Here’s what to do—and not do—to avoid problems on your mountain vacation.

Originally Published:
Jul 3, 2024
Updated:
Jul 12, 2024

## The Outside Guide to Sustainable Adventure Travel

Whether you’re going across the country or across the world, this guide will give you the tools you need to ensure your trip is good for the people and places you visit, and for the planet

Originally Published:
Jul 2, 2024
Updated:
Jul 17, 2024

## 14 Young Firefighters Died on This Mountain. Hiking the Memorial Trail Reminds Me of What We Lost.

Thirty years ago, a fire blew up on Colorado's Storm King Mountain, causing one of the worst wildland-firefighting tragedies in U.S. history. The trail honors those who died in the line of duty and the work of all firefighters.

Originally Published:
Jul 1, 2024
Updated:
Jul 2, 2024

Sponsor Content: Explore Asheville

## Top Gear at the Outside Festival

With made-in-Asheville products and Editors’ Choice Award winners, the Explore Asheville booth served up gear for every adventurer

Originally Published:
Jun 28, 2024
Updated:
Jul 26, 2024

Sponsor Content: Destination British Columbia

## The Most Epic Road Trip in North America

Immerse yourself in awe-inspiring landscapes, geological wonders, and cultural experiences closely tied to the land in The Great Wilderness of northern British Columbia

Originally Published:
Jun 28, 2024
Updated:
Jul 11, 2024

## 25 Easy, Scenic National-Park Hikes Under 5 Miles

Panoramas, waterfalls, and other natural wonders await you on these quick, rewarding routes chosen by our national-parks expert

Originally Published:
Jun 24, 2024
Updated:
Jun 27, 2024

## One of 2024’s Travel Trends Is Tourist Shaming. Here’s How to Avoid It.

Post-pandemic travel is surging, and overtourism is pushing popular places to their limits. How can you be a good traveler when some locals just want you to go home?

Published:
Jun 20, 2024

## The 10 Most Beautiful National Parks in Canada

Spectacular mountains and deep fjords, powder-blue lakes and sea stacks: here’s your bucket list of national parks to visit up north

Originally Published:
Jun 17, 2024
Updated:
Jun 24, 2024

## Traveling on a Budget? These 10 U.S. National Parks Are the Most Affordable to Visit.

Our parks expert has put together long weekend trips for as little as $204, with details on free entrance fees and campsites, and active itineraries that keep costs down

Originally Published:
Jun 16, 2024
Updated:
Jun 17, 2024

## Who Knew That There’s a National Nude Day? 9 Places to Get Naked Outside.

Whether you’re a natural nudist or simply clothing-optional-curious, these places welcome baring it all

Originally Published:
Jun 13, 2024
Updated:
Jun 14, 2024

Sponsor Content: Travel Texas

## Texas State of Mind: Find Texas Culture in San Antonio

Watch this travel couple immerse themselves in the food, history, and culture of the Lone Star State

Published:
Jun 13, 2024

## You’ve Got 12 Summer Weekends. We’ve Got a Perfect Trip for Each One.

There are 12 glorious weekends between now and Labor Day. Our travel expert has mapped out incredible summer travel plans for every single one of them.

Published:
Jun 10, 2024

## A Guide to America’s Favorite Road Trip: The Blue Ridge Parkway

This beautiful 469-mile route connects Great Smoky Mountain and Shenandoah National Parks. Our local writer knows just where to stop for hikes, camping, and the best views.

Originally Published:
Jun 9, 2024
Updated:
Jun 10, 2024

Sponsor Content: Travel Nevada

## Explore Southern Nevada’s Wild Side

Rally some friends. Hit the road. Get a little out there.

Originally Published:
Jun 7, 2024
Updated:
Jul 8, 2024

## Hello Darkness. Let’s Get Weird

Three days in total blackout darkness doesn’t sound that hard, until you hear this story about someone who tried to do it

Published:
Jun 5, 2024

## More Northern Lights Are Expected to Spark U.S. Skies. Are You Ready?

Thanks to a peaking solar cycle, spectacular auroras will likely appear again in the lower 48 soon. Our expert’s advice will set you up for success to see them.

Published:
Jun 5, 2024

Sponsor Content: Destination British Columbia

## Outdoor Adventures in the Great Wilderness of Northern British Columbia

Venture off the beaten path to northern British Columbia, where you’ll explore seemingly endless backcountry, meet diverse Indigenous peoples, and encounter a world of wildlife

Originally Published:
Jun 3, 2024
Updated:
Jul 11, 2024

## Everything You Need to Know About Thru-Hiking the John Muir Trail

Looking to try this 211-mile route through the Sierra Nevada? The FKT holder on the JMT provides key advice on landing a coveted permit, picking the best resupply points, the most beautiful campsites, and essential gear.

Originally Published:
Jun 2, 2024
Updated:
Jun 4, 2024

## A Boat Hater Takes an Expedition Cruise to the Channel Islands

I like the mountains, not boats, which make me sick. Then came a chance to see the beautiful landscapes of California’s Channel Island National Park.

Originally Published:
Jun 2, 2024
Updated:
Jun 3, 2024

## How to Hike the Highest Peak in the Rocky Mountains

14,438-foot Mount Elbert offers accessible routes ascending to the highest point in the Rockies. Here's the best way to tackle this trek.

Published:
May 30, 2024

## How to Find Affordable Housing in a Mountain Town This Summer

A seasonal job in a mountain town is one of the most fun adventures there is. Our Colorado-based columnist offers proven tips on how to land lodging that you can afford.

Originally Published:
May 28, 2024
Updated:
May 31, 2024

Sponsor Content: Visit Jordan

## In Jordan, Connect to the Past and the Very Wild Present

Why this beautiful country belongs on your bucket list, according to a traveler who has been there 20 times

Originally Published:
May 23, 2024
Updated:
Jul 19, 2024

## Want to Conquer Your Fear? Try Highlining.

I tested my nerve on a thin line high above the Utah desert. It changed how I face fear in my life.

Originally Published:
May 23, 2024
Updated:
May 28, 2024

## The 13 Best Upcoming Outdoor Festivals

Introducing a year’s worth of the most entertaining outdoor gatherings—music, sports, food, and film—all in dream locations

Originally Published:
May 20, 2024
Updated:
Jun 18, 2024

## 10 Incredible Trips Our Editors Are Taking This Summer

Outside editors know the best places to go on vacation. Let our summer plans be your inspiration.

Published:
May 16, 2024

Sponsor Content: Lexus

## The 6 Best Campgrounds for Stargazing in the U.S.

From beachside dunes to rugged mountainscapes, these six spots offer profound solitude, pitch-black skies, and some of the best stargazing in America

Originally Published:
May 13, 2024
Updated:
Jun 24, 2024

## Put These 11 Beautiful U.S. National Monuments on Your Must-See List

We love national parks, but they can get packed. These national monuments have the same spectacular landscapes, hikes, and adventures, without the crowds.

Originally Published:
May 13, 2024
Updated:
May 14, 2024

## The Top 10 Summit Hikes in Colorado

Guidebook author and local resident James Dziezynski highlights the coolest mountain hikes and scrambles in the Colorado Rockies

Originally Published:
May 12, 2024
Updated:
May 24, 2024

## Travel Agents Are Making a Comeback for This Good Reason

The new age of travel agents know how to find deals, book off-the-beaten path adventures, and get you out of any jam. Especially if you know who to use.

Originally Published:
May 8, 2024
Updated:
May 9, 2024

## Want to Take an Awesome National Park Road Trip? Here’s Where We’d Go.

From western landscapes to the Blue Ridge Parkway, our national park expert maps out five beautiful road trips—all doable in a week

Published:
May 6, 2024

## I Hate to Plan. I Love to Camp. Where Can I Find a Last-Minute Site This Summer?

From campgrounds that only accept bookings two weeks out to websites with immediate inventory, we’ve got solutions for late planners

Published:
May 5, 2024

## Biden Expands Two National Monuments, Protecting 120,000 Acres Significant to Native Nations

San Gabriel Mountains and Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monuments in California will now include land sacred to local Indigenous people, increase equitable outdoor access in Los Angeles, and protect habitat for endangered species

Published:
May 2, 2024

Sponsor Content: Enjoy Illinois

## The Best Outdoor Adventures in Illinois

Venture beyond Chicago to explore forests, lakes, trails, and more across the state

Originally Published:
May 2, 2024
Updated:
Jul 17, 2024

## The Perfect Way to Spend 72 Hours in Baja California Sur, Mexico

Start your trip surfing, and end it whale- and turtle-watching. We’ve got the latest intel on new spots and favorite local hangouts.

Published:
May 1, 2024

Sponsor Content: Breckenridge Tourism Office

## This Colorado Mountain Town Does Summer Right

Whether you’re looking for high-country singletrack, craft beverages, or family fun, Breckenridge has you covered

Originally Published:
May 1, 2024
Updated:
May 23, 2024

## Top 15 Spots to Camp in Colorado

From supported campgrounds to dispersed areas with stellar stargazing, we found the best places to sleep outside in the Rocky Mountains

Originally Published:
Apr 29, 2024
Updated:
Apr 30, 2024

## How to Get a Reservation at Phantom Ranch, the Grand Canyon’s Most Sought-After Lodge

Historic Phantom Ranch is the only park lodging on the floor of the Grand Canyon. Tens of thousands of people try to book a stay there. Our writer scored a night there recently, and if you follow her tips, you can, too.

Originally Published:
Apr 26, 2024
Updated:
May 1, 2024

Sponsor Content: Explore Asheville

## The Best Trails Around Asheville, According to a Local Hiker

Sandra Aguirre started hiking for her own sake and ended up helping others do the same. Now she wants to help you.

Originally Published:
Apr 25, 2024
Updated:
Jul 11, 2024

## The 9 Coolest Adventure Lodges in North America

Every great adventure needs a staging area. Here they are, from simple and affordable to dreamy and luxe, in unbelievable locations, with endless terrain to explore and a warm bed to return to at night.

Originally Published:
Apr 23, 2024
Updated:
May 2, 2024

## A Polar Guide’s Dilemma: Am I Part of the Problem?

Tourism to the Arctic and Antarctica contributes to their demise, and the regions are melting fast. A polar guide of 25 years asks: Should I stay away?

Originally Published:
Apr 21, 2024
Updated:
Jul 17, 2024

## A Hot-Springs Resort in a Ghost Town? Now That’s R&R We’re Game For.

Colorado’s Dunton Hot Springs was revamped from a mining town that once hid outlaws. Now it’s a secluded outpost where you can fish for trout, hike the Rockies, overnight in a log cabin, dine at a saloon—and soak your heart out amid nature.

Published:
Apr 19, 2024

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