Capitol Reef National Park, often overshadowed by its flashier cousins Zion and Bryce Canyon, is a secret waiting to be explored. This post will explore how to plan your Capitol Reef National Park trip. Capitol Reef offers a quieter escape, perfect for those seeking (some) solitude amidst dramatic landscapes. The park’s centerpiece is the Waterpocket Fold, a nearly 100-mile-long wrinkle in the Earth’s crust that has created a landscape of colorful cliffs, canyons, domes, and bridges. Here, time and geologic forces have sculpted a wonderland for outdoor enthusiasts and geology buffs alike. Vis ..read more

  Places to Stay in Glacier National Park  There are hotels and campgrounds within Glacier National Park and I cover them in this article about planning a trip to Glacier National Park. So why stay near Glacier rather than in Glacier?  You may not be able to get a reservation for lodging inside Glacier National Park.  Staying inside the park is generally more expensive than outside the park. If you pick your locations right, you can be more centrally located to everything you want to see and do in Glacier National Park.  There is a lot to see and do outside the ..read more

This post is sponsored by Glacier Country Tourism Read on for ideas for exploring winter adventures in Montana’s Bitterroot Valley.   As our kids get older, Henry and I are making time to focus on our relationship as a couple, while still holding onto our family relationship. It won’t be long before our teens are off on their own adventures and we want to make sure our relationship has a steady base.  One way we are doing this is by taking trips that are just the two of us. We still want outdoor adventures, charming small towns, and cozy evenings, so a winter trip through the B ..read more

This post is sponsored by Visit Billings. We are always up for a getaway weekend in Billings. In the past, we’ve gone as a family or I’ve gone with one kid. On this Billings visit, Henry and I got away – just the two of us. That’s one of the many advantages of living with teenagers. They can stay home alone. Nestled in the heart of Montana, Billings is a city that boasts a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural charm, and vibrant local scenes. It’s the perfect destination for couples looking for an urban and natural setting and to enjoy a romantic getaway.  In this blog post, we’ll gui ..read more

Nestled in the heart of Montana, Helena is an underrated gem that offers the perfect blend of outdoor adventure and culinary delights.  Known for its prime location surrounded by natural beauty and a burgeoning food scene, Helena is the ideal destination for a weekend getaway or a staycation.  In this guide, we’ll show you how to make the most of your time in this charming town, with a carefully curated itinerary that combines outdoor activities and delicious dining experiences. Day 1: Exploring the Great Outdoors Morning: Paddleboarding on Canyon Ferry Lake Hellgate Campground is yo ..read more

As the calendar flips to winter and a blanket of snow descends upon the tranquil landscapes, a unique world of seasonal wonder awakens. It’s time to book your trip to visit Island Park, Idaho in winter. Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains and framed by the grandeur of Yellowstone National Park, this picturesque destination transforms into a snowy utopia that beckons adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike. The crisp, frosty air, pristine white landscapes, and the promise of outdoor adventure are just a few reasons why Island Park is a must-visit winter wonderland. In this blog post ..read more

Welcome to the Island of the Gods – Bali! Bali, an enchanting island in Indonesia, is known for its rich culture, stunning beaches, and vibrant nightlife. However, it’s not just a destination for sunbathing and cocktails; it also offers a plethora of captivating hiking trails and breathtaking waterfalls.  I spent three weeks in Indonesia and found some of the best hikes in Bali. While hiking in Bali can be a little tricky for someone like me who doesn’t like heat or humidity (I know, crazy that I went to Bali), it can be a lot of fun – especially if there is water involved. For nature lo ..read more

About this trip  If you’ve ever wanted to join a small group of open-minded, adventurous women to:  explore the Greater Yellowstone in winter,  cross-country ski among hot springs and geologic wonders,  dog sled through the mountains,  look for wolves in Yellowstone’s famed Lamar Valley,  soak in a hot spring pool while gazing at mountains (and maybe wildlife),  wander charming small town Montana, get cozy around outdoor and indoor fires, Then this trip is for you!  February 4 – 10, 2024 I have made hygge (a quality of coziness and comfortabl ..read more

Can’t wait to try Yellowstone glamping? Here’s what you need to know about the most luxurious options for glamping near Yellowstone. Yellowstone National Park is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, abundant wildlife, and geothermal wonders. If you’re planning a trip to this iconic national park, why not consider glamping?  Glamping, a combination of “glamorous” and “camping,” offers a unique way to experience the great outdoors while enjoying modern comforts. In this article, we’ll explore the best options for glamping near Yellowstone. What Is Glamping? Glamping is a form of campi ..read more

If you’re an avid hiker looking for a breathtaking adventure, walking West Highland Way in Scotland should be at the top of your bucket list. Stretching 96 miles (154 kilometers) from Milngavie, just outside Glasgow, to Fort William, the West Highland Way offers stunning landscapes, charming villages, and a chance to immerse yourself in Scotland’s rich history. In this blog post, we’ll explore everything you need to know about hiking this iconic trail. My friend, Mariann and I walked the West Highland Way in early May after spending a week in Edinburgh. It was a wonderful birthday present from ..read more