Banff National Park has been on my list for a long time. From the turquoise blue water to vast hiking options, Banff has activities for both families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. In peak summer the crowds can be a bit overwhelming, but with a little careful planning you can enjoy a bit of solitude in this majestic place!
Alaska is a beautiful state to visit for outdoor activities. There are plenty of hikes and tours to do once you base yourself in an adventure town! One of the downsides is that traveling around the state can be quite difficult, usually via a small plane. For those with limited PTO and can only take a week to vacation, I've put together an itinerary to get the most for your time and money in Alaska!
Denali is at the top of the list of places to visit in Alaska - and for good reason. On a clear day, Mount McKinley stands tall at 20,310 feet. A 4 hour drive from Anchorage, Denali is a must-do for hiking enthusiasts. But the question is... do you explore Denali National Park or Denali State Park?
During our week long trip to Alaska, I was most excited for the Kesugi Ridge Trail in Denali State Park. This 27.5 mile through hike is a relaxing overnight backpacking trip. If you're lucky and get a clear day, you can see Mount McKinley (Denali) without the hassle of Denali National Park's bus system.
Seward, Alaska is located on the Kenai Peninsula between the Kenai Mountains and Fjords. Only 2.5 hours from Anchorage, Seward is a top choice as your hub to explore the surrounding area. There is so much to do in a Kenai Peninsula, but a lot of it is catered towards older adults and cruise ship tour-type activities. Here are two activities in Seward that we really enjoyed
The Cosmic Ashtray is a geologic wonder in Southern Utah. This formation was carved out through years of friction between wind and sand. There are even some traces of Native American tribes as you approach it. The hike itself can be tough - it requires navigational skills and plenty of patience. It is said that 9 out of 10 people who set out never even find it!
Fiery Furnace is a beautiful unmapped maze in Arches National Park. Although much of the park is very groomed and set up for non-experienced hikers, Fiery Furnace is perfect for the navigational-savvy hiker.
Arches is probably one of the most famous national parks in the US. You’ve probably seen a lot of beautiful red rock photos on social media, especially Delicate Arch. The problem is a lot of these places can be huge tourists traps if you arrive at the wrong time. We learned quickly after talking to a few locals and are passing the tips along to you!
Corona Arch is a lesser known arch to visitors in Moab, but it's well known among locals. The arch itself is not located inside either of the national parks, so it's not as publicized. In terms of beauty, I think it competes with the famous Delicate Arch!
