47.8021° N, 123.6044° W Way off in the lush, green hills of Olympic National Park sits four stone edged pools, each raised from the trail with views of the surrounding forest and river deep below. Olympic Hot Springs. A place that has been used by individuals for centuries. Including, the Klallam Tribe who used the stunning area as a place for vision quests. Though interestingly, it wasn’t until 1892 that the first person of European descent saw the springs. But it would take many years for the springs to become well-known, mostly due to the lack of access (i.e. trails and roads). Finally, at the turn of the century, William Everett acquired the rights to the location and built a trail. Things then started to pick up in the 1920s and ‘30s when Everett and his partner, Harry Schoeffel, built a road and resort at the springs. Those buildings stood until the 1960s when the lease ended. Fast forward to today, and only the dirt narrow road gives you any idea that something else (something grand) once stood there. While there used to be a double lane road heading up to the springs, and the campground that sits next to it (the only walk-up campground in the whole national park), since 2016 the road has been abandoned (thanks to the Elwha River, which decided to get a little too excited and destroy the road). Even though you can no longer drive to the trailhead - where you would still have to hike in 2 miles - the springs are still accessible… if you are adventurous enough to get there. DISCLAIMER We decided to head to the springs on a whim and didn’t get on the trail until 6:30 PM (after doing almost no research on the route). So our own experiences might be a bit different than someone who decides to start at a more reasonable time. The first thing you realize, at least for us, is that the road is closed. Yes, we knew cars could no longer use the road but didn’t exactly know why (again, we didn’t do any research). It only took us about 5 minutes to figure out that we would indeed have to take that VERY well-marked bypass trail that we had passed earlier because the road was completely washed away. Cool. After hike-a-biking on the very steep, cliffy, single-track trail, we made it back to the road. We thought the hard part was done: the road would just be 8-miles of flat pavement riding along a river. Easy. Wrong. The road does not follow the river and instead climbs for 8 straight miles up a mountain. We are fit, active people and even we were having a tough time. Plus, the sun was quickly becoming weaker and weaker and we weren’t even to the hiking trail (let alone the actual springs). Eventually, we rounded a corner, saw the abandoned parking lot and the equally abandoned bathroom. We locked up our bikes (though we weren’t really worried about someone taking them since we were the ONLY ones out there). Took a swig from our quickly deteriorating water supply and hit the trail. Now this might be some bad (maybe even illegal) advice, but the trail is very wide - it was the road to the springs at one point. So if you wanted to, you could totally bike up the trail. While there were a couple of fallen trees, and a few stream crossings, none of it was too bad (plus it would definitely save you some time). The hiking trail is really nice. Lots of tall trees, flowers, streams, and views of the surrounding valley. Honestly, by the time we reached the end of the trail, we already felt we had made the right decision by adventuring out to the springs - and that was before we even saw them. You know you are almost there when you see a little wooden outhouse in a meadow, start to hear the rumble of the creek below, and see a sign for the campground up another trail. Then all you have to do is cross a narrow wooden bridge, hike maybe another 20 feet and then you will see the first evidence of hot springs - mostly in the form of warm, colorful water oozing from the ground. There are supposedly 7 hot springs, though we only found 4 (not that we looked that hard). Two are closer to the trail, which is why we recommend heading to the fourth one - which sits higher up, almost on a ledge, and has better views of the surroundings. There is a nice rock wall surrounding it, some of which are perfect for sitting on. There is also plenty of space to put your stuff without worrying about it getting wet. While no one knows exactly what mechanism has triggered the springs, many believe it is due to the fact that they lie on a fault. With the breaks in the rock, this enables surface water to be heated and driven back from the hot interior of the earth. The pools temperatures vary from 85 degrees to 105 degrees Fahrenheit. AKA be prepared for some pretty hot water. Because we were ill-prepared and didn’t bring much water, we didn’t want to sit in the springs for too long (we also only brought chips and salsa and wine, which will also dehydrate you). Even though we didn’t enjoy the hot water for super long, the atmosphere alone was totally worth it. The quiet, peacefulness of being way back in the woods is something we always tend to miss - especially when we have been stuck in civilization for too long. Before we knew it the light had completely gone away and a thick layer of darkness was quickly moving in. We packed up our stuff and started the long adventure back to the van (if we had known there was a campground at the top we probably would have just stayed and slept there). The hike back was fine: quite dark, but thanks to it being so wide we weren’t super nervous about falling or anything. Eventually, we made it back to our bikes, strapped on our helmets and headlamps and realized they were not actually that bright. Then headed back down the road. Neither of us have ever been afraid of the dark. But there is something a little terrifying about biking down a deeply forested, dark twisty road in the pitch black with only a faint light to guide you. It is one of those things that is exciting for about 5 minutes and then you are just waiting (and waiting) for it to be over. 8 miles and four very cold hands later we made it back to the dirt single-track trail - something we had been dreading since we started out on the trek. We once again hike-a-biked, which for anyone who is not familiar with the term, just means we hiked while pushing our heavy bikes next to us. Don’t worry, it is as fun as it sounds. But FINALLY we were back on the road that would take us to our van - only another half mile and then we would officially be back. By now it was well past 11 PM and we were exhausted. After quickly locking the bikes up and switching out of our damp clothes, we crawled into bed and fell fast asleep. Like we said earlier, this account of our adventure up to Olympic Hot Springs is unique. In truth, the route to the springs does not have to be that hard. If you are okay walking 10 miles out, on a road no less, then the experience will probably be only sunshine and rainbows. And if you do want to bike (which would be faster than walking, even with the elevation profile) just know to bring extra water. Honestly, even after our somewhat “rough” experience we still consider the hot springs some of the best we have ever experienced. The location, surroundings, and the pools themselves were incredibly magical. If you plan ahead, bring the necessary items (i.e. water) and leave at a decent time, or even better, plan on spending the night at the nearby campground, then these hot springs should be a super enjoyable, relaxing and fun experience. Plus, because they are a bit harder to get to, there will likely be almost no one there (bonus). So simply show up, find your favorite pool, and let the hot water and fresh mountain air soothe your soul. \\ Important Things to Keep in Mind for the Hike BRING EXTRA WATER Goes without saying with a 10-mile hike or bike in, but also remember that the hot springs themselves dehydrate you. So bring more than you originally would have thought. PACK EXTRA CLOTHES Even if you are camping nearby, make sure to bring a dry pair of clothes. The water is not gross, but it does kind of smell. So having a nice clean, pair of clothes to put on afterwards is a win. CONSIDER CAMPING Why not hike in with your gear and plan to spend the night? Then you get two soaks: one at night under the stars and one in the morning to warm you up. Sounds like a pretty awesome set up to us. CARRY EVERYTHING OUT The hot springs were nice and clean when we were there, which sadly isn’t always the case with natural springs. So do your part by following leave no trace principles and make sure to carry out ALL trash. ► Want to learn more about our adventures to the Olympic Peninsula? Then check out our unique, adventure-focused route guide of the area.

46.8721° N, 113.9940° W EXPLORE OUR FULL TRAVEL GUIDE FOR THE WONDERFULLY ADVENTUROUS TOWN OF MISSOULA, MONTANA. BELOW YOU WILL FIND THE BEST TRAILS, RESTAURANTS AND CAFES. Sometimes called the “hub of five valleys”, the picturesque town of Missoula, in the western half of Montana, might just be the perfect place to spend a summer adventuring. Home to just over 75,000 people, the “River City” has almost every type of outdoor activity, as well as a thriving community, good restaurants, great coffee shops, and even a university. Founded in 1860 as Hellgate Trading Post (which might be one of the best names ever), Missoula, Montana eventually moved farther upriver and became Missoula Mills - which later got shortened to just Missoula. The town quickly began to grow thanks to it being an important supplier to the Mullen Road (the first wagon road to cross the Rocky Mountains) and settlers, a fort, a stop on the Northern Pacific Railway, and in 1893, the choice location for the state’s first university - the University of Montana. Today, the town has 400 acres of parkland, 22 miles of trails, and nearly 5,000 acres of open space conservation land just within the towns close vicinity. Nearby there are 3 different national forests (Lolo, Flathead, and Kootenai), multiple mountains reaching 4,000+ feet in elevation, and a handful of rivers (hello prime fly-fishing). There is even a National Bison Range, which was established by Theodore Roosevelt in 1908 and today holds 250-300 bison. So obviously Missoula is a prime location for any and all adventures, no matter the time of year. With so much to offer, it was tough narrowing it down to just a couple highlights. But here are a few of the best things to do in and around the beautiful Montana town. Where to Hike in Missoula, Montana FOR THE BEST VIEWS OF TOWN | THE M AND MOUNT SENTINEL TRAIL A 3.1 mile out and back trail that is quite popular for locals (especially runners), this hike takes you up a set of switchbacks before reaching the famous “M.” After reaching the landmark (and taking in the views of the valley and university below) you can keep hiking another mile up to the top of Mount Sentinel. There you will be able to not only see the valley below, but also Hellgate Canyon, Mount Jumbo, the Rattlesnake National Recreation and Wilderness Area, and even the Bitterroot Mountains. You have a couple of options for the descent, including simply retracing your steps, taking the Crazy Canyon Trail into Pattee Canyon, or following the Hellgate Canyon Trail to Crazy Canyon Trail and then on to the Kim Williams Trail. ➳ Check out the M Trail on Alltrails here. FOR A BEAUTIFUL LONG HIKE | RATTLESNAKE TRAIL Coming in at just under 34 miles total, this trail takes you along the Rattlesnake Creek and through various Rocky Mountain biomes. While this is a popular trail for hiking and backpacking, it is also open to mountain bikers. And thanks to it being an old logging road, the trail is actually quite wide and has a gentle grade - at least for the first 9 miles. There are also a number of side trails spitting off Rattlesnake Trail, making it a kind of “choose your own adventure.” 💬 INSIDER TIP: this trail doesn’t have a ton of shade so make sure to bring a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water, no matter how long you plan to go. ➳ Check out the Rattlesnake Trail on Alltrails here. FOR A NICE WORKOUT | PATTEE CANYON TRAIL Another awesome trail, and one that will definitely get your heart rate up. This 10.3 mile out and back route gains just under 3,000 feet in elevation, allowing you to have some great views near the top. It is also a superb area to see wildflowers, especially in late spring. Many people use the trail for hiking and trail running (like we said, it will get your heart rate up). ➳ Check out the Pattee Canyon Trail on Alltrails here. FOR A GREAT HIKE WITH YOUR DOG | BLUE MOUNTAIN LOOKOUT If you are looking for a nice hike to do with your pooch near Missoula then this 4.8 mile hike might be just right. The trail is moderately difficult and allows dogs to be off leash for part of the hike. Though be aware that this trail is pretty popular, so you will want to make sure your dog is good with other people and animals (including horses). ➳ Check out the Blue Mountain Lookout Trail on Alltrails here. Where to Eat in Missoula, Montana You might expect a small(ish) town out in the mountains of Montana to not have a great selection of food. Well, you would be entirely wrong. Turns out, Missoula has lots of awesome food options to choose from. Here are a few of the best options. PRE-HIKE FILL UP | TAGLIARE DELICATESSEN Home of some of the best meats and cheeses around, this unassuming deli might just have the best sandwich in all of Missoula (maybe even Montana). Grab one of their unique and tasty sandwiches before hitting the trails (or for when you are starving afterward). Some of the yummiest options at Tagliare Delicatessen are the Pixie (goat cheese, pickled beets, carrots, arugula, and mustard vinaigrette), the Misfit (turkey, hot sopressata, garlic aioli, fig walnut chutney, swiss, pepperoncini's, spinach) and the Journey (smoked salmon, caper cream cheese, onion, and arugula). Find the exact location of Tagliare Delicatessen here. HEALTHY AND FAST | FIVE ON BLACK It can be tough finding a place that is delicious, fast, healthy, and cheap. Luckily, Five on Black checks all the boxes. With their easy to customize menu (pick your base, meat, vegetables, sides, and toppings) you can really create whatever you are feeling, all with a nice Brazilian flavor. This is a great spot to stop if you are gearing up for a long drive (like we were when passing through) or planning a nice picnic in the park. Find the exact location of Five on Black here. A HIDDEN FOOD GEM | THE GREEK PASTRY SHOP (AKA THE #1 GYROS) Who would have thought you could find maybe the best gyro around in a small Montana town? Either way, the Greek Pastry Shop is a must-stop if you are craving anything remotely Greek. Order an original gyro and be ready to be transported to some beautiful Greek village along the Mediterranean. Find the exact location of The Greek Pastry Shop (for their Fifth Street location) here. THE PERFECT LAZY MORNING BRUNCH | THE CATALYST CAFE In our opinion, you can’t have a bad day if you start with a delicious meal of huevos rancheros. And at The Catalyst Café, they sure know how to make some awesome, mouth-watering huevos rancheros. Other delicious options include chilaquiles and “The Heap” aka a skillet with tons of veggies, eggs, and cheese. Another great thing about The Catalyst Café is their vegan chorizo and coffee options (they originally started as a coffee cart back in 1991. Find the exact location for Catalyst Café here. You can learn more about Missoula’s food offerings here. Where to Grab Coffee in Missoula, Montana BREAK ESPRESSO Awesome coffee, homemade baked goods, and a great atmosphere perfect for getting work done, Break Espresso might just be the best place in Missoula to spend a day getting things accomplished. Find the exact location of Break Espresso here. BLACK COFFEE ROASTING COMPANY Both a unique coffee shop and a coffee roaster, this place truly has you covered in the caffeine area. All of their coffee is organic, fair trade, and ethically produced. Plus, each is individually roasted to highlight their own unique characteristics. If that doesn’t make you want to stop in for a cup then we don’t know what will. Find the exact location of Black Coffee Roasting Company here. DRUM COFFEE With a nice cozy, neighborhood coffee shop feel, Drum Coffee is the perfect place to meet up with friends for a cup of joe and some light fare (and great conversation). Sit outside, breathe in the Montana air and just relax (or rev up with their delicious espresso drinks). One thing to note is the Wi-Fi is not free (but with good friends, who cares…). Find the exact location of DRUM COFFEE here. You can find the full list of other great coffee shops in and around Missoula here. Missoula, Montana might not be the first place to come to mind when thinking of an outdoor getaway. Honestly, until we drove through on our road trip West, Missoula was just a dot on a map and a place way out in the wilds of Montana. But after checking the town out, and seeing all the amazing things it has to offer (both naturally and culturally), we now consider it a place we could totally see ourselves living in later on. So if you are anywhere within Missoula’s vicinity, or are just looking for a place to spend a couple of days (or weeks) back in nature, we HIGHLY recommend checking Missoula out. Just make sure to bring some good hiking boots, your mountain bike, a fly fishing rod, and of course, an adventurous spirit!

10.5750° S, 75.4000° W PERU IS ONE OF THE MOST POPULAR COUNTRIES TO VISIT IN ALL OF SOUTH AMERICA, BUT DON'T WORRY THERE ARE STILL SOME AMAZING HIDDEN GEMS TO EXPLORE. INCLUDING THE AMAZING MOUNTAIN TOWN OF OXAPAMPA - LEARN MORE ABOUT IT BELOW. When you think of Peru, what comes to mind? Machu Picchu of course, maybe a well-dressed lady in colorful garb leading a pet llama. Maybe the city of Cusco, or the wild (and weird) Nazca lines. What likely does not come to mind is a tropical paradise with strong German culture. And that is okay, because the town of Oxapampa is the perfect place to get off the beaten path and have an adventure. FIRST A BIT OF BACKSTORY. We had been traveling in Peru for quite a while when we realized we had to leave the country, at least for a bit, because of our visa. So we hopped on a bus in Arequipa and headed south towards Chile, where the plan was to spend a week on the beach just hanging out. Now the landscape in southern Peru and northern Chile, can be described with one word: dry. In fact, the area, known as the Atacama Desert, is one of the driest deserts in the world. We realized that first hand as our bus drove for hours (and hours) through nothing but empty, sandy wasteland. After a week in the awesome beach town of Arica, Chile, we crossed back into Peru, took a bus all the way up to Lima and then picked up another bus that took us to the Oxapampa region (in truth, it took us to the slightly larger town of La Merced and then we had to grab a van to take us to the actual town of Oxapampa). SO WHY OXAPAMPA? Well, after spending a week in a place where the only two colors you saw were brown and blue we were looking for a bit of green in our life. Plus, we are both naturally drawn to more forested, lush areas and though we had been in Peru for a while, we hadn’t gotten to experience the “jungle” yet. In the end, the fact that Oxapampa was in the jungle, was surrounded by cool natural features (including a national park, but more on that in a bit) and it wasn’t tooooo hard to get to, made it seem like the perfect place to venture to after being in the desert. Once in town, we were quickly shuttled to our Airbnb that sat just on the outskirts of the main community, off a dirt road that also randomly passed a local cheese shop. Our Hosts were absolutely amazing: Lima transplants who wanted to get out of the big city and get back to the easy way of living in a place surrounded by nature. And Oxapampa has some pretty sweet natural areas surrounding it - as well as a neat culture, history and food. Here are 2 reasons why you need to add Oxapampa to your Peru itinerary. 1 | The Culture One of the first things you notice about the Oxapampa region is the heavy European influence, specifically German culture, architecture and food. A really unique experience is to head 50 miles north - on a questionable single lane dirt road through the jungle - to the town of Pozuzo. Founded in 1859 by German and Austrian immigrants fleeing their homeland due to war and famine, and after promises of land by the Peruvian government if they settled in the region, in the end, of the 302 colonists who had departed Europe together only 172 made it (either due to people deserting in route, or death). 30 years later the population had grown to over 500, with almost all of them being farmers (main crops were and still are, tobacco, coffee, coca and rice). Today, though only 15% of the total population in the Pozuzo district claim to have Germanic heritage, you can still get a feel for what “old” Pozuzo would have been like in the form of architecture (of the Tyrolean style) and cuisine. When we visited we stopped at Restaurante el Tipico Pozucino, a restaurant that serves traditional German food, including different types of sausages, meatballs, and Pilsner style beer. Other sites to see are the historic bridge and trail that span the Huancabamba River and lead up to an observation point, the local brewery, Cervezeria Artesanal Dorcher Bier, and a historical museum that goes into detail on the settlement and growth of the area. You can also get a good sense of the Germanic culture closer to Oxapampa. Including, visiting a local cheese maker, an awesome brewery (seriously, so good and CHEAP!) and checking out the town's main plaza, which has an obvious German influence in the buildings, specifically the church. While there is a strong German influence today in the area, it is still very much "Peru." This is extremely evident in the weekly markets, the nearby coffee farms (or fincas) and the restaurants that line the town's streets. 2 | The Nature For a place to stand out to us it has to have some pretty awesome outdoor attractions. Luckily, Oxapampa has that in droves. A great place to start is heading north into Yanachaga-Chemillen National Park, which borders the town. The park covers 110,658 hectares, most of which is cloud forest. Within its bounds you can find close to 5,000 different types of plants, which accounts for 25% of the total plant species in Peru! In terms of animals, if you are lucky, you might be able to spot a jaguar, puma, jaguarundi (a small wild cat), spectacled bear, capybara and a brown woolly monkey. Similarly, there are 550 different types of birds living in the park, including the striking Cock-of-the-Rock, toucan and Harpy Eagle. Learn more about the diversity, and cultural significance of the park, here. 💬 INSIDER TIP: a good thing to note is that you need to go to the parks office in town to get your pass before heading into the park itself. On our visit we sadly didn’t get to see any of the aforementioned animals, but had an amazing time nonetheless. We went for a nice long hike up through the cloud forest and to a viewpoint before being turned around by heavy rain (make sure to bring good rain proof shoes when hiking because it can be really muddy). The landscape was totally different than anything we had experienced before: layers and layers of plant life in hundreds of shades of green. Besides adventuring in the national park, some other great options are visiting local caves, like Cueva Tunqui or Cueva Sia Sia (cueva is cave in Spanish), or waterfalls like Catarata Rayantambo or Catarata Rio Tigre (catarata is waterfall in Spanish). And if you just want to go exploring and get off-the-beaten-path, why not rent a motorbike and venture out on some of the back (dirt) roads? That is one of our favorite ways to adventure and one that has led us to many exciting places. The town of Oxapampa is a great place to visit if you are looking for good food, good beer, good adventure and good people. During our week long stay everyone was very welcoming (we even were invited to a local river clean up that was way cool). Plus, there is so much to explore in and around the area, especially if you have a motorbike. So while Peru might be famous for ruins, weird lines in the desert (JK) and well-dressed llamas, we believe the amazing jungle town of Oxapampa should also be on your must-see list.

40.5853° N, 105.0844° W Stretching 40 miles through a rocky, flora-filled mountain landscape, and up over the Continental Divide, Highway 14, better known as the Poudre Canyon, is one of the best areas to do some serious adventuring. Connecting the towns of Fort Collins and Walden, this scenic byway has a lot to offer - from hiking, mountain biking, and camping, to good food and even live music. Spend a day or a weekend exploring this area and you will be amazed at what you find. \\ The Top Hiking Trails in the Poudre Canyon LOWER DADD GULCH TRAIL This trail follows a nice lush stream and an old stock trail up through a gulch for about two miles before leaving the stream and passing through dense forest and a couple small meadows. It eventually meets up with Salt Cabin Road, a forest road in the Pingree Park area. The trail is only 3.6 miles (one-way), though you can keep going on the forest road once at the top. It is great for both hiking and mountain biking. BLUE LAKE TRAIL A great trail if you are looking to be amongst giant trees and get some good vistas at the top. Plus, the trail allows dogs (though on leash) and is never too steep (yay) - making it great for trail running as well as hiking. It is an out and back hike, though there are other trail options at the end to make it longer (it is 10.3 miles round trip on its own). Truly great scenery and a stunning blue (of course) alpine lake await at the end. EXPLORE MORE | 72 HOURS IN FORT COLLINS, COLORADO: THE ULTIMATE LONG WEEKEND TRAVEL ITINERARY THUNDER PASS Located in State Forest State Park, this trail is 9.8 miles in total and takes you high above tree line for some great views of the surrounding area, including the nearby Never Summer Mountain Range. The trail winds through lush landscapes and a long a couple of alpine lakes. Plus, like Blue Lake Trail, dogs are allowed to use it as well. MICHIGAN DITCH A personal favorite, for both mountain biking and trail running, this nice dirt “road” follows a stream the whole way, before reaching Lake Agnes and the unique, and stunning, Nokhu Crags. The trail itself gives you fantastic views of the area, including Cameron Pass. In late spring you will likely see wildflowers and maybe even a moose (or two). Great for a longer ride with your dog or a (relatively) easy hike since it is road grade aka not very steep. \\ The Top Food Stops in the Poudre Canyon THE MISHAWAKA Great location, great food, and great live music. This icon of Northern Colorado is an excellent spot to hang out during the summer. Located right on the Poudre River, you can sit outside and eat your meal and listen to the water rush by (and maybe see a kayaker or two). The Mishawaka is located about 40 minutes from Fort Collins. HOWLING COW CAFE Before heading up the Poudre Canyon make sure to stop by this café for some delicious coffee, a bagel sandwich, and maybe some noosa yogurt - the dairy that the coffee shop sits on is where the yummy yogurt is made. A personal recommendation is the mocha (the chocolate milk they make there is AMAZING) or a root beer milk latte (yes root beer milk is a thing). ME OH MY PIE Another must-stop shop, this time in the small town of Laporte, Me Oh My Pie not only serves the namesake dessert, but also all kinds of baked goods, quiches, sandwiches, and if going later in the day (and of course not driving) some alcoholic beverages. Fuel up on a nice sugary treat before heading up the canyon. \\ The Top Places to Camp Along the Poudre River CHAMBERS LAKE Situated right along beautiful Chambers Lake, this campground is perfect for people looking to camp and fish in practically the same spot. It is also close to the aforementioned Blue Lake Trail and State Forest State Park. Learn about reservations and pricing here. LONG DRAW CAMPGROUND Another good option for camping in the area, this campground has 25 sites and is also perfect for fishing, hiking, and exploring. The main difference with the Chambers Lake Campground is that this spot is much farther off the main highway, meaning it is a bit quieter and feels more “woodsy.” Each site has a fire grate and picnic table, and bathrooms and drinking water are also available. Learn more about the campground here. EXPLORE MORE | EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT FREE CAMPING IN THE USA STATE FOREST STATE PARK YURTS One of the coolest lodging options in Northern Colorado, the Never Summer Nordic Yurts - located within the State Forest State Park boundary - are an explorers dream. Offering medium-sized yurts, larger yurts, a couple of small one-room cabins, and a big, family-style cabin, there are lots of options to fit your needs. Plus, the location - and outdoor adventures available - is top-notch. \\ A Few Extra Important Things to Know About Exploring the Poudre Canyon | There is only one gas station between Fort Collins and Walden and it can be quite expensive. The same goes for food - besides a couple of restaurants, there is not much to speak of, so stock up in Fort Collins if going west on Highway 14. | The State Forest State Park Moose Visitor Center is a great place to stop for a picnic and to learn more about the area. Including, the fact that the North Park area (that the state park sits in) has the highest concentration of moose in Colorado, making it the Moose Capital of the State. | Once you reach the town of Walden, you have a lot of options in terms of driving destinations and adventures to be had. If you take Hwy 125, it will eventually lead you to the town of Granby, which is close to the west entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park (aka loooots of hiking trails), a cool hot spring and a brewery. Or if you keep going west to Hwy 40, you will eventually land in Steamboat Springs - an awesome town full of hiking, mountain biking, and skiing (plus food and beer). The Poudre Canyon is truly a hidden gem in the vibrant and exciting Colorado landscape. Because of that, you can still find yourself alone out in nature, exploring lodgepole pine forests in solitude. Similarly, the area has so much to offer that everyone can find something to enjoy. From hiking and biking, to fly fishing (some of the best is found on the Cache la Poudre River) and kayaking. To staying in a cute rustic yurt to camping beneath the stars. The Poudre Canyon is sure to amaze you with its natural beauty and awesome adventures. Learn more about the area here and also make sure to check out why we believe Northern Colorado should be on everyone’s summer bucket list. OUR MAP OF THE TOP SPOTS IN THE POUDRE CANYON

40.3428° N, 105.6836° W Last year, Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP) was the third most visited park in the whole USA (after The Great Smoky Mountains and The Grand Canyon). It saw a total of 4.67 million visitors in 2019! The park, which measures 415 square miles, is home to a lot of really popular and unique features. Like Trail Ridge Road, which is the country’s highest continuous paved road, and definitely worth a drive. Or that there are over 280 bird species in the park. Or better yet, that the majestic Bighorn Sheep - the symbol of RMNP - is the largest wild sheep in North America (males can weigh up to 300 pounds). With so much to see, it can be hard to know exactly what to do when visiting. Especially, if you don’t have much time. Luckily, as Estes Park locals, and RMNP virtuosos, we have compiled a list of the best things to see that also happen to be off-the-beaten-path (sorry no Bear Lake hike here). 1 | Black Canyon Trail, Lumpy Ridge RMNP has a lot of trailheads, many of which are on the outskirts of the town of Estes Park and not inside the main park area. This is great for when you want to go for a hike, without having to deal with the traffic jams that build up at the main entrance stations. One of the best is the Lumpy Ridge Trailhead off of Dry Gulch Road. The parking lot is pretty small, and because it is the main trailhead for the popular Gem Lake hike, we do recommend getting there early. But there is a lot more there than just Gem Lake to explore. A personal favorite is the Black Canyon Trail, which takes you back west through wide-open fields, green meadows, and dense pine forests. There are also some great rocks nearby to admire (the Lumpy Ridge zone is popular for rock climbing), including the neat rock outcropping called Twin Owls. Take the Black Canyon Trail all the way up to the Cow Creek Trail and either go left towards Lawn and Crystal Lakes, or go right and make a 10-mile loop back to the parking lot. 💬 INSIDER TIP: after a long hike, why not cool down with a nice beer at the aptly named Lumpy Ridge Brewery in Estes Park. We recommend the Sun Lion Lime Wheat beer, perfect on a hot summer day! 2 | Dunraven Glade Trail, Glen Haven Trailhead Possibly the farthest RMNP trailhead from the main park area is the Dunraven Glade Trail. In fact, for the first 4 miles, you are in either National Forest or National Wilderness before eventually reaching the National Park boundary. This trail is beautiful. Think aspen groves, wildflowers, lodgepole pine forests, and a river paralleling you most of the way. And after the first couple of miles (once most people turn around), it gets really quiet, really fast. Another great thing about this trail is that it isn’t super steep, it is more gradual and flowy, making it a great spot for trail running (see our other favorite trail runs in the area here). 💬 INSIDER TIP: if hiking early in the morning, once finished, make sure to stop by the Glen Haven General Store for a warm cinnamon roll (the BEST) or some cherry cobbler with vanilla ice cream (also DELICIOUS)! 3 | The Backway to Cub Lake As a local, you quickly find ways to get into the park without actually driving into the park - which is especially helpful now with the reservation system (find out what we are talking about here). This relatively unknown trail is one of the best ways to get into the park on foot. Simply park at the Swiftcurrent Lodge and walk towards the gate that says No Trespassing (we know, not the nicest thing, but don’t worry you are on private land for maybe 30 seconds). Stay to the road until you see a singletrack trail breaking off towards the river - follow that until you get to a large bridge. Go under it and BAM you are in RMNP and only a couple miles from the Cub Lake Trailhead and Fern Lake Trailhead. The easiest, and best way, to get to either is to follow the singletrack to a parking area where you will likely see a lot of fishermen. Go past them and towards a dirt road that leads to a couple historic cabins. Keep walking down that road for about a mile until it ends at a parking area and another single track trail begins. Now it gets really pretty. Keep on the trail and you will see flowers, pine forests, lush meadows, and a nice crystal clear mountain stream (and even possibly a moose). Eventually, you will get to the Cub Lake trail (there will be a marker). But for the first couple of miles, you will have the trail, and the scenery, all to yourself. 💬 INSIDER TIP: Nearby is a great donut shop, called The Donut Haus (it is now in a gas station). They close by noon in the summer, so maybe consider stopping in for a nice sugar boost before your hike. 4 | The CCY Hike, Fall River Road This hike is definitely one of the harder ones in the park, but even if you don’t do all of it, it is still worth checking out - for the views alone. To get to the trailhead you have to drive up Old Fall River Road, a beautiful dirt road that switchbacks up the mountain, through aspen groves, until eventually reaching the top of Trail Ridge Road (in the 20's the road was the first auto route to take you to the high country of the park). It is a one-way (due to its narrowness) and completely worth driving even if you don’t plan to do the CCY hike. But we 100% suggest checking out the CCY hike at the very least. It stands for the three mountains you can summit on the hike: Chapin, Chiquita, and Ypsilon, and is just under 9 miles round-trip. The best thing about this hike are the views from the top - talk about a birds-eye view of the valley. Plus, the hike is never that busy, even in the peak summer season. If you start early and go on a weekday especially, there is a good chance you will have one of the summits (maybe all three) all to yourself. One thing to note about this hike is that for a good portion of it there isn’t really a “trail,” more like social trails and helpful cairns. But because you are above tree line, you will easily be able to see where to go next (the next mountain top). These four hikes are often very quiet, especially if you go early or on a weekday. While they all are within the bounds of RMNP, they often feel like a completely different area. Not because of the terrain - all four of them very much fit that “rocky mountain landscape.” But because of their lack of people. The park is getting busier and busier every year and because of that, it can be hard to find a trail that isn’t packed with people (which definitely takes away from the calmness of nature hikers are usually seeking out). If you are hoping to get back to nature, do some exploring, and just have a bit of peace, then definitely add these four hikes to your list. Getting off-the-beaten-path is ALWAYS a good idea.

With more breweries than people and more trails than roads, Northern Colorado is the place to be during the summer. Okay, so that might have been a bit of an exaggeration. BUT the area known as Northern Colorado does in fact have tons of breweries (Fort Collins actually accounts for 70% of all craft beer made in Colorado) and some awesome trails, of the hiking and biking variety (in fact, Fort Collins is one of only five towns in the USA deemed a Platinum Level Bike-Friendly Community by the League of American Bicyclists). Northern Colorado (or NoCo) is home to not only great beer and trails, but also some stunning scenery, good food, and lots of outdoor adventures. Here are a few reasons why you need to visit Northern Colorado this summer. Get Lost in the Outdoors. When you think of Colorado as a whole you likely imagine sharp, snow-covered peaks for miles. And that is very true… in some parts of the state. But in Northern Colorado, you actually have a great mix of landscapes and biomes. From the tundra up on Trail Ridge Road in RMNP to the Pawnee Grasslands out at Soapstone Natural Area, there are a lot of different areas to experience and enjoy. Plus, NoCo is not only home to Rocky Mountain National Park (the third most visited national park in the country) but also countless state parks, regional parks, and recreation and natural areas. Some great places to check out are Lory State Park, State Forest State Park, Pingree Park, and Indian Peaks Wilderness. Grab Some Grub. While we might be more famous for beer, Northern Colorado is also a great spot to get some tasty food - often with a nice view thrown in. Some great spots to check out are The Mishawaka, located up along the Poudre Canyon (read more about that in a second), The Dunraven in Estes Park, The Blind Pig in downtown Fort Collins, and Door 222 in Loveland. Besides offering some great “real” food aka healthy, there are also some standout dessert options. The three best are Walrus Ice Cream in downtown Fort Collins, the Colorado Cherry Company on Highway 34, which offers the BEST cherry pie around, and the Glen Haven General Store near Estes Park, which offers not only great cherry cobbler but also stand out cinnamon rolls (they’re HUGE). Take a Hike. This probably doesn’t come as a surprise, but Northern Colorado has a lot of awesome trails. From rolling, shrubland doubletrack in the Foothills, to lush green single track up in the mountains, to even some great routes out in the plains - you can find a trail to suit any fitness level and any distance. Now, we hike a lot - it is kind of our thing when back home in Northern Colorado. Here are our recommendations for the best hikes around: Chasm Lake in RMNP, Reservoir Ridge near Fort Collins, Hall Ranch near Lyons, American Lakes Trail in State Forest State Park, and the Dunraven Glade Trail near Glen Haven. Want to learn more about other great hikes in the area? Check out this article. Get High...Up. If you have lived in Colorado, or even visited before, you have likely heard all kinds of marijuana jokes. And while yes pot is legal in Colorado there are other ways to get “high.” The best is to take on a big mountain, get that elevation. And if you want to get really high then why not conquer a 14-er? Longs Peak is a beacon and emblem of the Front Range and NoCo area. You can see it from practically every town and even from I-25. It is the tallest peak in RMNP and the surrounding area. So if you want to feel like the king of the world for a bit, grab your hiking shoes, some sunscreen and lots of water and attempt to summit. Learn more about hiking Longs Peak here, especially the dangers that come with being that high in elevation. Drink Up. Okay so if you haven’t figured it out by now, Northern Colorado takes their beer very, very seriously. On its own, Fort Collins was named the number two Best Beer Scene in the Nation by USA Today, Number 3 on Travelocity’s Beer Tourism Index for Top Small Metro Areas, and the Best Bike to Happy Hour Town by Outside Magazine. Within the boundaries of Northern Colorado, you can find dozens upon dozens of great breweries. Some of the best are New Belgium Brewery in Fort Collins (which offers free tours), Oskar Blues Brewery in Lyons, Lumpy Ridge Brewery in Estes Park, Maxline Brewing in Fort Collins, and Scrumpy’s (an awesome cidery) also in Fort Collins. Relax By the River. If you have been to Fort Collins, you have probably seen or heard of the Poudre River. Its full name is Cache la Poudre, which in French translates to something like Powder Cache - or where French fur trappers hid their gunpowder during a blizzard - though many just call it the Poudre. While Colorado is home to some pretty stunning rivers, including the namesake Colorado River, the Poudre is the only nationally designated “Wild & Scenic” River in the state. That designation was created in 1968 by Congress in the hopes of preserving certain rivers with outstanding natural, cultural, and recreational values in a free-flowing condition for the enjoyment of present and future generations. The Poudre definitely lives up to that: today you can partake in a number of activities along its shores or in the midst of its roaring power. Including, white water rafting, tubing, fishing and just hanging out along its lush banks. And if you want to see a lot of the river, we suggest driving up Highway 14, aka the Poudre Canyon, which follows much of the river and is a designated Colorado Scenic and Historic Byway. It runs between Fort Collins and the town of Walden, up over Cameron Pass. Northern Colorado is a pretty special place. And though we are (obviously) biased since we both grew up in the area, we can honestly say NoCo is one of the best places to spend nice summer days. Grab a beer, go for a bike ride, and end the day watching the sunset over the Poudre River. The adventures are truly endless.

40.3772° N, 105.5217° W HERE ARE SOME OF THE BEST PLACES TO CAMP IN AND AROUND THE TOWN OF ESTES PARK, COLORADO. It is not very surprising that a tourist town like Estes Park would hold dozens (upon dozens) of various hotels within its borders. And also unsurprisingly, there is a wide variety of different styles, prices, and amenities. At the top, you have the world-famous (and slightly infamous) Stanley Hotel - made famous by Steven King in his book, “The Shining.” From there you have lots of cute little lodges that sit along the river, standard motels within walking distance of downtown and even spots that let you rent your own one-room cabin. Stays in Estes Park come in many different sizes and styles. BUT if you are instead wanting to do something a little different - say spend your evenings out in nature - then maybe consider bunking down in these spots, and really take in the beauty that Estes Park’s outdoors has to offer. \\ Hike In Campsites LOOKOUT POINT / POLE HILL This is probably the most off-the-beaten-path camping spot on the list. In truth, you probably won’t find it on any list or map for that matter. But it’s actually pretty straightforward to get to. First, park near the trailhead for Pole Hill (you can just Google Pole Hill and find it pretty easily) and then start walking up the rocky, dirt road. Once at the top, you will see other camping spots, maybe with people in them, but keep going. Then turn right at the Y in the road (CR 247) and follow the dirt road through aspen groves, meadows, and up a couple more hills until you get to a clear flat spot near the top. You will see a little side trail heading west up a small hill (there will be logs over the road, but that is okay). Hike up that until you get to the top where you will see a big campsite with a stone fire pit and pretty stellar views of the surrounding mountains. NORTH FORK CAMPSITES There are actually a lot of great backcountry campsites in this area - and the best part is that because it is not in the “main” area of RMNP, you will likely have it all to yourself! To get there start at the Dunraven Glade Trailhead near Glen Haven. Hike up the trail, which follows a nice creek and takes you through aspen groves, pinewood forests and open green meadows, until you get to the turn off for the North Fork Trail (on your right). Turn there and you will quickly come across an old cabin with a horse corral out back. Near there are two great campsites: Silvanmere and Halfway (there is also Happily Lost campsite not too far away as well). Both are great for being alone in the woods, where you will have a higher chance of seeing wild animals instead of people. Both are about 5.6 miles out from the trailhead. Silvanmere has 2 sites available, while Halfway has 1. Both allow wood fires as well. The North Fork area is also really lush, with wildflowers and lots of trees, as well as having a nice calming river nearby. And if you are feeling like doing a hike while camping out there, then head west towards the Lost Lakes, an awesome picnic spot with beautiful alpine lakes. THUNDER LAKE Another great site, and one you will likely have to yourself, Thunder Lake is one of the prettiest alpine lakes in all of RMNP. This campsite is 6.8 miles from the Sandbeach-Wild Basin Trailhead and offers 3 individual campsites, a larger group site, and even a stock campsite (with a corral). There is also a patrol cabin up at the lake, though it is not routinely staffed. This area is another stunning mountain location that offers a high chance of seeing wildlife, including moose, and the feeling of being alone out in nature. Plus the stars are spectacular. READ MORE | THE BEST WAY TO SPEND A LONG WEEKEND IN ESTES PARK, COLORADO BOULDERFIELD, LONGS PEAK This might be one of the most memorable camping experiences you have: sleeping in the middle of a wide-open boulder field at the foot of Longs Peak, one of the most recognizable mountains in the whole USA. There are 9 campsites available, all marked by clear rock rings, as well as a bathroom, a stream that runs through for water (boil it nice and long), and maybe the best sunrise views in the whole park. To get to camp, you have to hike 6 miles from the trailhead (which should take between 5-8 hours). One thing to remember is that you will be camping above tree-line at just under 13,000 feet. So bring lots of warm clothes and know what to do in case a storm comes in (lightning is a very real danger). INSIDER TIP: this is the best camping option if you are planning on hiking to the top of Longs Peak the next day. \\ The Best Drive In Campsites JOHNNY PARK If you haven’t noticed by now, we LOVE this area. It is great for hiking, mountain biking, trail running, and ATV-ing (and jeeping, which we haven’t done yet). It is also a nice spot to spend the night. You have two options: park down near the Johnny Park Road entrance, which is pretty large and has about 8-10 spots, or up near the entrance to Pierson Park, which is smaller, about 2 spots, but quieter. Both are really pretty and have big stone fire rings. If you are looking to sleep in your car, or camp in a tent and not pay any campground fees, then this is a great option. You are about 20 minutes from Estes Park, 10 minutes from the Wild Basin Trailhead (which has awesome hikes), and only about 30 seconds from some stellar trails. INSIDER TIP: one thing to note about this area is that it does get pretty busy during the weekend - so if you are looking to camp, get there early so you can snag a spot. EXPLORE MORE | THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK IN COLORADO \\ The Best Campgrounds CAMP DICK Once you get past the funny name (yes we know it is funny to say) you will actually be really amazed at how great this campsite it. Tucked back behind another campground - Peaceful Valley - this spot is easy to miss. But if you know, you know. The campground has 41 individual campsites, which can accommodate tents, vans, cars, and RVs, with each having their own fire ring, bear box, and picnic table. But the best thing about this campground is that it sits right at the beginning of some stellar hiking and mountain biking trails, as well as CR 1141 - a popular jeep road. PAWNEE LAKE The farthest camping area from Estes Park, this campground is located in Indian Peaks Wilderness, more specifically the Brainard Lake area. It has 47 campsites, each with its own fire pit, picnic table, and bear box. If you are looking to escape the crowds of Estes Park and RMNP as a whole, then this is a great option. The landscape of the area - lakes, mountain peaks, forests, and trails - are super similar to RMNP, just with a fraction of the people. Spending the night under the stars is an amazing way to reconnect with nature. And in Estes Park, the Gateway to RMNP, there are plenty of options, from backpacking into the backcountry to driving up to a hidden camp spot, to hanging out around a fire pit surrounded by other campers with the same goals of you: enjoying the great outdoors.

Oh Arizona, with your sunny days, red rocks, and jaw-dropping canyons it was so easy to get lost in you - at least for a bit. While most people know, or have heard of, places like Phoenix, Tucson, Flagstaff, Sedona, and of course the big daddy of them all: The Grand Canyon. In truth, the sixth largest state in the USA actually has a lot more to offer. Hidden caves, abandoned buildings said to be the home of satanic worshippers, and even an unused bunker meant to house 2,000 people. Yes, we would say Arizona has much more than just a big canyon (jk, the Grand Canyon is pretty dope). Here are a few off-the-beaten-path places that should top your list if you ever find yourself in the Copper State. Chloride Ghost Town Part ghost town - part art installation, this abandoned mining town in northwest Arizona is a curious place to spend the afternoon in. The town was founded in 1862 due to the high amounts of silver, turquoise, and gold in the region. At its peak, it was home to 75 mines and 5,000 people. The town began to decline in the late 20s, and a fire that burned it almost entirely to the ground seemed to seal its fate. While today the town does have its “touristy” side: mock gunfights, Arizona’s oldest post office, and an all-female gun fighting troupe, there is much more than meets the eye. For example, as mentioned previously, the bizarre junk art that lines the roads in the less historic area of town. Then there are the murals. Located 1.3 miles from town on a rough 4 wheel drive road, lies a massive piece of artwork (2,000 square feet in fact), done by a local prospector named Roy Purcell in the 1960’s. The mural, titled “The Journey” is deep in symbolism, including showing a yin yang symbol and the fertility goddess. How to Get There: Chloride is about an hour and a half from Las Vegas (right off Hwy 93) and roughly 3 and a half hours from Phoenix (also on Hwy 93). Cinder Lake Crater Field Before a big event (sporting, musical, speech), you probably need to practice. But what if the thing you are planning to do has never been done? And better yet, what if the thing you are planning to do is done not on this planet? Well, that is where Cinder Lake Crater Field comes in. Located just north of Flagstaff, this former volcano was the training ground for NASA astronauts before their fateful trip to the moon. Chosen because of its porous gravel, the site had to first look more like the moon (making it easier to simulate for the astronauts training), so scientists came in and used hundreds of pounds of dynamite to create various craters. While many of the craters have somewhat disappeared today - thanks to weathering and erosion - you can still get a feel for what the faux moon would have looked like. Presently the area is part of the Coconino National Forest and is a popular spot for off-roading. How to Get There: Head out on Interstate 40 from Flagstaff, then take exit 201 towards Page, Arizona. Then go 8 miles on Route 89 before turning onto Forest Service Road 776. Go down that for 1.5 miles before you reach the Cinder Hills Off-Highway Vehicle Area. Grand Canyon Caverns Underground Suite Today it might just be a fun and unique place to spend the night, but at one time the Grand Canyon Caverns Underground Suite was thought to be the last resort for up to 2,000 people. The year was 1961 and then president John F. Kennedy decided to build a safe place for evacuees in case bombs began to rain down - this was the Cuban Missile Crisis after all. He decided the Grand Canyon Caverns was the perfect spot. So he moved enough supplies, including beds, TVs, radios, and a library, as well as enough food for a month, down to the caverns. Today the suite is operated by Grand Canyon Caverns Motel, which sits 220 feet above. While you can rent the suite for a night (and thanks to the extreme depth and insulation of stone it might be the quietest room in the world) you can also take a tour. How to Get There: Located on Historic Route 66 (near Radiator Spring Gas), it lies about an hour and half west of Flagstaff and almost two hours from Grand Canyon NP. The Domes Originally built to facilitate the manufacturing of computers in the 70s and 80s, the Domes were never actually completed. Half-finished foundations, crumbling walls; all of this makes for a fun and interesting pit-stop. Though beware there could (possibly) be some bad juju going on. Some of the locals believe the abandoned facility is a popular spot for ritualistic witchcraft and satanic worship (you know, whatever). Most of those beliefs center around the tunnels on the eastern end of the facility. Though there is no evidence to support these claims, it might be smart to stay away from the tunnels out of safety concerning the questionable stability of the structures. As of January 2019, the domes are still standing, though one has already collapsed, which has led to a crackdown on trespassers. Be aware that the ruins are on private land and you are trespassing. This could lead to law enforcement intervening. Be smart. How to Get There: Located about one hour north of Tucson near the town of Casa Grande. Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument Way down south, and we mean waaay down south - practically in Mexico, lies one of the prettiest biosphere reserves in the entire US. Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument might not be one of the most well-known national monuments in the United States, but that is why it is so special. It is absolutely beautiful, even designated a UNESCO biosphere reserve, wild and somewhat hard to get to. On our Southwest road trip, we made sure to take the detour and see it for ourselves, and in the end, it might have been one of our favorite stops. The park is the only place in the US where the organ pipe cactus grows wild, but the Sonoran desert oasis is also home to many other types of cacti, including the saguaro. It is also home to many animals, like owls, coyotes, scorpions, and tarantulas. We recommend stopping by and spending a couple of days during the month of January: everything is open, the weather is perfect and the creepy crawlings (as our camp neighbor put it) aren’t out yet. How to Get There: About an hour and a half west of Tucson, down Hwy 86. You can also stop at Kitt Peak for a cool astronomy lesson. Ajo We have (probably) all been there. You are on a road trip and you stumble across a town that had previously just been a random name on a map but is now blowing you away with its unexpected charm and beauty. That is what Ajo was like for us. Located in southwest Arizona, Ajo was once a copper mining hub - and even today you can still very clearly see the trace of that past. With its remarkable Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, mild climate (at least in the winter), and nearby adventures, the town quickly made a mark on us - plus they have a pretty sweet coffee shop downtown. Learn more about Ajo here, and why it is not just a beautiful town but also a good symbol of what happens when people of different backgrounds come together. How to Get There: Ajo is just north of Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument (about 30 minutes from the visitor center). So about an hour and a half from Tucson as well. Arizona is a special place. While on the surface it might just be a wide-open, dry desert spotted with metropolises, in truth there is a lot that lies beneath. If you want to learn more about Arizona and the treasures it holds then check out this article.

THERE ARE FEW THINGS BETTER THAN SETTING OUT ON AN ADVENTURE ON THE OPEN ROAD. HERE ARE A FEW WAYS TO HELP YOU PLAN THE PERFECT ROAD TRIP ROUTE. Road tripping might just be the most fun way to adventure. There is something so special about seeing a place, any place, from ground level. While planes give you a mesmerizing top-down view (who hasn’t been amazed at the beauty of landscapes from 30,000 feet above?), being in a landscape - and crossing it at a slow 60 mph (at least compared to a flight) is very cool indeed. We will be the first people to say that road trips are our jam. We absolutely LOVE them - it is the thing we miss the most when traveling outside the country, our lack of wheels which for us really means lack of independence and freedom. That is why when we are back in the USA we always try to plan out an awesome road trip. That was probably one of the reasons we decided to go on an epic motorcycle trip across the southern half of the United States instead of going somewhere outside the countries borders. For us, the ability to drive where we want, when we want, and see what we want is a big, big draw for us. Our planning started about a month before hitting the road - which if you know anything about us is pretty amazing because let’s just say no one would ever call us “overprepared.” It was probably because we were just so darn excited at the idea of venturing off into an area we had never really explored before and the wonders that these places we had only heard of or seen on a map could very like hold. The excitement of exploring had taken hold of us. When you start to think of taking on a road trip, it is important to do a bit of route planning (we know, getting lost is fun too). Here are our recommendations when planning the perfect route, no matter your form of transportation. 4 TIPS TO HELP YOU PLAN THE PERFECT ROAD TRIP ROUTE 1 | Start By Figuring Out What Kind of Road Trip You Want In other words, what are you hoping to get out of this trip? Do you want to see as many national parks as possible, or are you hoping to get a big dose of history? Knowing what your overall goal is, is super important when deciding where to go. For our motorcycle trip, we knew we wanted to stay away from major cities and highways, see some beautiful natural wonders, and kind of get a bit “lost.” So we looked at a map, found all the big cities and planned a way around them (far around them if we could help it). We also looked for weird, off-the-beaten-path locals that probably wouldn’t be super touristy or busy. And because of who we are - and our interests in national parks overall - we knew we had to a hit a couple of parks that we probably wouldn’t be able to otherwise (hello White Sands National Park). Before you even look at a map, on paper or on your computer, you should have an idea (doesn’t have to be concrete or anything) of what you really want to get out of your trip and then go from there. 2 | Decide on Your Time Frame After knowing what you want to see you have to quickly decide on how long you have for the road trip itself. You can see a lot in a couple days if you only have a couple of days, or you can take it a bit slower and jam less stuff in if you have, say a week. We had about four months set aside for this trip, with about a month of that being spent in southern Texas with family, meaning we had 12 weeks to fill with stuff. That seems like a lot of time, but you will quickly realize that there is a looooot of awesome stuff out there to see. Even with all of our time we still had to cut out a lot of things we wanted to see (sorry Grand Canyon National Park). Another thing you have to realize is that driving between places takes time, even if Google Maps says it is only two hours between places you have to factor in things like bathroom breaks, awesome vistas that are just begging to be memorialized in a photo, traffic jams due to wildlife, stuff like that. So don’t overpack your schedule in a way that doesn’t account for stuff like that. Also, make sure to add in a bit of “downtime” - otherwise, you will be exhausted and burnt out on day three of road tripping. 3 | Look at A Map Now is the fun part: you have decided on what you want to get out of the trip and how much time you have, now it is time to look at a map. We prefer to scour over a nice, big paper atlas. Who knows why? Maybe because it harks back to a time when all you had was a simple paper map. Either way, we love to spend hours just looking at maps and for our motorcycle trip, we got totally immersed in staring at different landmarks, twisty dirt roads, and maybe a ghost town or two on our National Geographic Adventure Atlas. Looking at a map is a great way to finally get an idea of what your route will look like, especially spatially. Knowing where one cool landmark is compared to another is important when planning out your days. This is also a great way to figure out where you want to stay for at night, either conventional lodging options like hotels and motels, or campgrounds nearby (we love the app iOverlander for finding super cool, hidden gem campsites). So we highly recommend getting some form of map, either digital or good old fashion paper, and looking it over before you start your trip. You will see a lot of cool things that you probably never would have heard of, or thought of visiting unless you looked at a map (that is how we found Kitt Peak in Arizona, an awesome side trip that we highly recommend checking out if you are in the Tucson area). 4 | Do A Bit of Research Instagram is home to millions of images from all over the world, so what better way to get an idea of a place than to look at beautiful images of it? And if Instagram isn’t your thing, then at least check out Google Images - it is a great way to see what a place looks like before actually getting there. We do this a lot when deciding whether a place is worth it (yes we know don’t judge a book by its cover, or a place by one Google image) but it honestly does give you at least some sense of a place. Also when it comes to creativity - and in this case specifically photography - we like to get an idea of some cool places to takes photos by looking at examples of what people have done before. When planning a route, having at least an idea of the terrain and locations you are hoping to see will also give you a good idea of what to bring (oh that lake is big and beautiful and we are road tripping during the heat of the summer, maybe we should bring our tubes or SUPs, stuff like that). It is also a great way to get inspired (in case you needed any). Because nothing makes you excited to hit the road than seeing a drop-dead gorgeous vista or unique roadside attraction. Road trips might just be the best way to see a place, at least we think so. Nothing beats having the freedom to go where you want, when you want, and see what you what (and stay as long as you want). It seems we are always planning our next road trip (for us our next one looks to be a big two-week trip into Oregon and Washington). The excitement of hitting the road is something we miss when we are away from it for too long. We absolutely love the feeling of the wind in our faces, the knowledge that we don’t know what is around the next bend in the road and the ability to spend hours or days in a random place that we would never visit unless we were in our car (or van or motorcycle). So if you are even contemplating doing a grand road trip this summer then we cannot stress enough that you should absolutely, 100%, no questions asked, GO FOR IT. So grab your friends (of the human or pet variety), find your form of transportation, and start route planning! WANT TO SAVE THIS ARTICLE FOR LATER? CONSIDER PINNING IT!

HERE IS A QUICK BREAKDOWN OF SOME OF THE BEST PLACES TO EXPLORE IN ESTES PARK, COLORADO - INCLUDING THE BEST RESTAURANTS, CAFES AND ADVENTURES. The beautiful mountain town of Estes Park is home to a lot of restaurants - as you would expect from a popular tourist-y location. And while there definitely is quantity we wouldn't say there is 100% quality. But from two people, one of whom grew up in the town, will tell you, once you get off the main strip you can find some pretty delicious meals. Below are a couple of our favorite places in and around Estes Park that will have you feeling happy and full, especially after a long day on the trails. \\ Restaurants Breakfast Big Horn Restaurant $$ Mountain Home Café $$ Meadow Mountain Café (located in Allenspark) $$ *get there early, it gets BUSY Glen Haven General Store (the BEST cinnamon rolls) $ Lunch The Baldpate Inn, a cute, historic inn with salad and pie! $$ Nepal's Cafe, has an amazing lunch buffet $ Peppers Fresh & Fast Mexican Grill $ Smokin Dave's BBQ, especially nice at the Hanger/Golf Course $$ Oppa Asian Bistro $$ Dinner Nicky's Steakhouse Restaurant, expensive but delicious $$$ Poppy's Pizza & Grill $$ Cafe de Pho Thai, amazingly authentic Thai food $$ Rock Creek Tavern & Pizzeria, great pizza in Allenspark $$ Take-Out La Mexicana, a local favorite, has amazing breakfast burritos and lunch $ Antonio's Real New York Pizza $$ Fresh Burger Stop, in a gas station but really tasty - and cheap $ Country Market Grab-n-Go Sandwich's $$ Fancy Dinners Bird & Jim, local, fresh, seasonal specialties $$$ Dunraven Inn, their cannoli's are out of this world $$$ Cascades Restaurant at the Stanley Hotel $$$$ Coffee Shops Kind Coffee, also has awesome breakfast food $ Inkwell & Brew, eclectic shop with coffee and cartography $ Coffee on the Rocks, wonderful setting near a pond and RMNP $ Now for the fun (-ner) part: the best things to do outside, including hikes in and around the area, dog-friendly trails and mountain bike routes that give you some pretty stellar views (and get your heart pounding). \\ Activities Best Hikes Rated 1-3 in terms of difficulty: 1 is easiest, 3 is most challenging Chasm Lake, 2 Flat Top Mountain, for the best views try to go all the way to the top of Mt. Otis, 2 Dunraven Glade, a nice back entrance into RMNP, 1 Black Lake, beautiful and often quiet mountain lake 2 Chiefshead and Mt. Alice, two great peaks that see almost no people, 3 Devil's Thumb Pass, located down in the Indian Peaks Wilderness, 3 Dog Friendly Trails Lily Mountain, go early because it gets busy, 1 Hermit Park Open Space, 1 Pierson Park, off of Big Owl Road is just an amazing trail, 2 Pole Hill Road, 2 Best Mountain Bike Routes Johnny Park, nice dirt road that winds through evergreen forests and wildflowers Pierson Park Cross-Over, ~12 miles but gorgeous Pole Hill Road, rough start but pretty trail with views Picture Rock, located in Lyons but has good flowers and easy(ish) trails Awesome Stargazing Spots Panorama Point, a long hike but nice and secluded McGraw Ranch Trailhead, very quiet and almost no light pollution Wild Basin area, the quieter part of RMNP, plus it is far enough away that there is very little light pollution Estes Park has a lot more to offer than touristy restaurants, taffy shops and RMNP. While we did mention a couple trails within the park (Black Lake, Flat Top Mountain) there are tons of really nice trails - that are dog and mountain bike friendly - outside of the park. Our recommendation is Indian Peaks Wilderness. It is near the cute town of Nederland and has some awesome trails that allow dogs. We love Devil's Thumb Pass because of the difficulty (you practically hike up to the Continental Divide) but there is also Blue Lake, Mt. Audubon and tons of other alpine meadows and waterways. Hopefully, you will find this information useful when planning your own trip to Estes Park and would like to get off-the-beaten-path a bit more. If you want to see our itinerary for the best 3 days in Estes Park then check out this article.

36.7783° N, 119.4179° W EXPLORE THESE 4 AMAZING OFF THE BEATEN PATH BACKPACKING ROUTES ACROSS THE BEAUTIFUL STATE OF CALIFORNIA IN THE USA. With more than 339 different trails in the whole state of California, totally an amazing 2,158 miles, it is easy to get a little overwhelmed with the backpacking options available. Luckily, we have found four trails that give you the best bang for your buck. A nice mix of biomes: alpine lakes, coastal dunes, hot springs, and even a 14-er. Keep reading for some of the best backpacking routes in the state of California, then grab your gear and hit the trail for an adventure you won’t soon forget! 1 | The Rae Lakes Loop Spanning two national parks, Kings Canyon and Sequoia, this 37-mile trail is worth every foot of elevation gain (a total of 7,500 feet). We tackled it early in the season, which had its perks but also some pretty big (or small in this instance) drawbacks. You should probably plan for four to five days on the trail, with the last day being a half-day (meaning plenty of time for a nice filling meal and maybe a beer or two). For us, we decided to go hard on Day 1 and 2 and then spend the last two days going a bit easier aka more time for photos and taking in the scenery. You can go either clockwise or counter-clockwise, depending on the permit you get at the ranger station before starting out. Many people recommend clockwise, but we went counter-clockwise and though day one was almost all uphill, it was not too bad (tough but bearable). Either way you go you will see the same stunning scenery. Because we went early in the season, we did have to deal with a couple “negatives” mostly in the form of vicious, ravenous mosquitos that made cooking outside unbearable. The first night was the worst - we quickly had to set up camp and take refuge inside before we were completely overrun by the awful creatures. As someone who gets attacked more often than others (yay) it was pretty terrible. The scenery was outstanding, but the fact that we had to deal with thousands of tiny blood-sucking bugs did take away from the overall enjoyment. The other negative was not actually that bad - just something to be aware of. If you are planning to go early in the season like we did be prepared for snow up at the pass. There is still a clear trail going up and down to follow, but it does get slick and can be a bit dangerous if you aren’t paying attention. But honestly, besides the little flying demons and the snow, we loved going early in the season: everything was green, there were lots of flowers and it didn’t seem nearly as busy. The Rae Lakes are stunning and this trail is definitely worth doing. Be prepared for bugs, the sun, and some sore legs afterwards, but all in all it will be a trip you won’t forget. ➳ Want to learn more about the trails? Then check out this website. DETAILS DISTANCE 39 miles loop ELEVATION GAIN 7,670 feet DAYS NEEDED TO COMPLETE 3-4 2 | The Lost Coast Trail While many backpacking routes take you along singletrack or maybe even doubletrack trails, the Lost Coast Trail way up in Northern California has very little set trail at all. Instead, be prepared to hike almost solely on the beach. For three days you will cross different but always stunning terrain - from coastal grassland bluffs to boulder-strewn, slippery beaches. You’ll see lots of birds and if you are lucky, the much larger (and smellier) elephant seals. We did the trip over the 4th of July weekend with a couple of our good friends. The five of us started out early on the 5th, after a night of surprising fireworks over the ocean dunes, and quickly got into a nice rhythm of walking along the rocky coastline. Even though the trail is not exactly long - just under 25 miles in total - it does take time and can definitely take a toll on your body (by the end all five us were feeling it in our arches and knees). This trail also requires a bit more planning, mostly to do with the tides (the trail is along the beach, meaning twice a day there is no trail), and where all the primitive campsites are in case you get stuck. Honestly, this trail is one of the best ways to get out and experience a stretch of nature that is otherwise difficult to see (the King Range National Conservation Area is one of the roughest pieces of coastline on the Pacific, so rugged that Highway 1 has to veer inland to bypass it). It is a stunning area of California that really reveals itself after being walked on by your own two feet. ➳ Learn more about the beautiful hike here. DETAILS DISTANCE 25.3 miles total (this trail requires a shuttle) ELEVATION GAIN 1,578 feet TIME NEEDED TO COMPLETE 2-3 days, the tides can really slow you down 3 | Sykes Hot Springs At only 20 miles in length, this route might not be as intense as others in the state, but it might just have one of the best payoffs. Start the hike at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park and head out on the Pine Ridge Trail, there you will cross the river twice - if it looks like it is rushing too fast or is too high, be smart and turn around. If you are planning to do the hike in two days, which we recommend - why rush it? - then you will have to stop and pitch a tent at one of the three designated campsites: Terrace Creek (5 miles down the trail, Barlow Flat, the largest of the three and 7 miles away and finally, Sykes Campground which sits right next to the hot springs. A final thing to know is that the hot springs only hold up to five people at a time. So either go early (really early) or plan to hit the trail during the off-season, like the fall after all the tourists have left. ➳ Learn more about the trail here. DETAILS DISTANCE 19.5 miles round-trip ELEVATION GAIN 5,275 feet TIME NEEDED TO COMPLETE 2 days 4 | Mount Shasta via Avalanche Gulch If you have ever driven north from Sacramento, California then you have probably seen what almost looks like a mirage: a tall, white peak rising from the otherwise flat landscape. But don’t worry, that “mirage” is exactly what it looks like - a striking mountain rising from the land. Mount Shasta is a 14,000-foot peak that stands proudly over the Shasta-Trinity National Forest. The “somewhat” dormant stratovolcano is the second tallest peak in the Cascades, which counts Rainier and Mount Saint Helens as members. We believe one of the best ways to hike up Mt. Shasta is via Avalanche Creek. While the route is one of the “easier” ways up the mountain, it is still pretty strenuous. You can make the hike in one long day - start early - or spend the night before camped out at Lake Helen (where you will see some truly beautiful stars). Then get up before sunrise and hit the trail. Hold on though, actually in truth there isn’t actually much of a trail. Instead, it is more like following the most direct route right up the mountainside, which is mostly made up of ash and sand. While you hike you might feel like after every step forward you slip two feet back - that is probably true. This trail is physically tough, but it is also mentally demanding. When we hiked it we saw more people turn around than actually make it to the summit. If you are bad-ass enough and you eventually reach the summit (after what feels like way too much time) you will be rewarded with some pretty amazing views of the surrounding area. Take a selfie, soak in the beauty and then head on back down (you can even slide down part of it if you are feeling really adventurous). Get back to camp, which is located in the trees and near a nice cool stream (perfect for a victory ice bath), and then either spend another night out in the woods or hike the last 3 miles back to your car. ➳ Learn more about this stunning hike here. DETAILS DISTANCE 10.3 miles round-trip ELEVATION GAIN 7,122 feet TIME NEEDED TO COMPLETE 2 days These four hikes are some of the best adventures to be had in the whole state of California. They get you off the beaten path and let you see some truly stunning landscapes. All under the power of your own two feet - which we believe it makes it that much sweeter. So grab your sturdiest hiking shoes, a couple of delicious backpacking meals, and of course your camera (you’ll want to capture all of it and hit the trails! Are you ready for an adventure!?

Trail running is one of those things that you either love or just don’t get. If you have never run on a trail or run at all (except for in dreaded gym class) then you might gawk and question the sanity of anyone who would want to run up a mountain - or two - for fun. Distance running, in general, has somewhat become a “new” and trendy way of exercising. Yes, the marathon was created or founded back in 490 B.C. when a Greek soldier named Pheidippides is said to have run roughly 25 miles to bring news of a military victory to the city of Athens (his starting point: Marathon). But it really wasn’t until 1897 and the first-ever international Olympic Games were held that we had our first organized marathon (only 9 of the 25 entrants actually finished). Then things started to get very official in 1921 when the International Amateur Athletic Federation officially declared the marathon to be 26.2 miles long, 13 years after the marathon was run (in its entirety of 26.2 miles) at the London Olympic Games. Jump 50 or so years to the 1970s and running is starting to become a “thing.” Races of all distances, 5K up to Ultras, are becoming more and more attainable by the common man and woman. The business of running is booming as well. In 2015, the road-running industry was valued at over one billion dollars! But hold on a second. That is mostly road running - the much more well-known side of long-distance running. What about trail running? Funny enough trail running started thanks to a bet between a couple of San Francisco runners. The Dipsea Inn was a new spot in the scenic coastal town of Stinson Beach (been there, it is very beautiful). The running buddies wanted to see who could run there the fastest, taking the Mount Tamalpais trails. In the end, they had so much fun that a year later they officially created the First Annual Championship Cross Country Run, Mill Valley to Dipsea by the Sea. While there were “events” similar to this long before, think fell races in the UK, Dipsea’s uniqueness makes it the true first of its kind. “It keeps its importance because its terrain is so challenging, its scenery so spectacular, and the whole experience so unique.” - Runners World So now that you know a bit more backstory on trail running, and distance running in general, how about we talk about some of the best spots in Northern Colorado, more specifically the Rocky Mountain region. With so many amazing trails to choose from - from backcountry roads, single track trails through RMNP and double track forest roads, it can kind of be overwhelming (not in a bad way though). After looking at our own experiences, and a quick search online, we have compiled the eight best trail running routes to show off the best that Northern Colorado has to offer. Reservoir Ridge Natural Area Loops On the far north end of Horsetooth Reservoir, there is an open space, and while it doesn’t get as much press as some other spots (looking at you Pineridge) it is still a great spot to go for a run. There are two loops you can do and combined they equal about 4-miles. All of it is on singletrack, with good views, some trees to run through, and more often than not (especially in the morning) it all to yourself. Plus, you can bring dogs there. Old Flowers Road (County Road 52E) Maybe better known as a mountain biking trail, this dirt road near Masonville (and about 45 minutes from Fort Collins) is also a superb running spot. The trail is either a nice soft dirt road or a double track that runs straight through the forest. While it is mostly uphill - but never too steeply - that only means the way back down is more fun! Michigan Ditch Road Way up the Poudre Canyon, right on Cameron Pass, is an amazing dirt road that winds itself back into State Forest State Park. The road is about 12 miles in length, though pretty much flat the whole way. The views though are just magnificent: high alpine trees, more often moose than not and the Nokhu Crags. Dunraven Trail Located in the national forest and then Rocky Mountain National Park, the Dunraven Trailhead near Glen Haven is an awesome spot to get away from people - and still see the beauty of the Rocky Mountains. There are a couple of trail options, meaning you can go however far (or short) you want. The one we really enjoyed doing was the North Fork Trail, which follows the north fork of the Big Thompson River (meaning the trail never climbs too steeply) into the national park. Pierson Park This long, wide trail has two starting points: one is off of Little Valley Road on the southeast side of Estes Park, and the other is off Big Owl Road near Allenspark. Because the trail climbs steeply and then drops (you go over two passes in the ~10 miles on the trail) either entrance works. We have started in Little Valley and ended on the other side, and absolutely loved it. The trail goes through aspen groves, has awesome views of Mt. Meeker and Longs Peak, and is really quiet. While the trail is tough - it is totally worth it! Johnny Park Road One of our more recent running trail finds, this popular jeep road is pretty much one of the prettiest routes we have ever run. Maybe it was because of the cool, cloudy weather, or that both of us just felt goooood, but either way - there is no denying the beauty of this trail. There are a few steeper parts, though nothing too bad. It also goes for miles and miles meaning you can get a nice long trail run in easy. Bring a phone though because the views are pretty great. North Sheep Mountain Trail This single-track trail is probably not marked on many maps, we didn’t really know about it until we did it - and then went and searched for it on Caltopo and Maps.me. But while it might be hard to find on the web, the trail itself is quite clear and well taken care of (looks like a popular mountain bike trail honestly). We did it recently and LOVED it! It is right off Johnny Park Road (see above) but took us deeper into the forests where we found fields and fields of wildflowers. The best way to do the trail is counter-clockwise. Either way, you do have to run back on Johnny Park road but that isn’t too bad. Devils Thumb Trail A nice loop trail (or out and back if you want) that starts at the Hessie Trailhead outside of Nederland. It is located in the Indian Peaks Wilderness area - meaning dogs are allowed but must be on a leash. The trail is about 13-miles long and climbs just over 2,000 feet up to the Continental Divide (where you can get on the CDT). And while it is a bit steep, the views from the top, plus just the trail through the trees and up to alpine lakes is definitely worth it! So take a gander, find out where these trails are, and grab your running shoes. We will see you on the trail! Want to learn more about trail running? Check out these articles: Trail Running Tips, Why Trail Running is a Good Idea and Thoughts From the Pros.