US National Parks, Van Life & Travel Tips!
Did you know the North Cascades are one of the least visited parks in the country? This remote destination is often covered in snow, but in the summer it becomes a playground for wildlife and adventure lovers. I've got you covered on where to stay in the North Cascades so you can spend less time figuring out logistics and more time enjoying the park. Before my first visit to the North Cascades I was really confused about lodging and where to ... Read the Post...
So, you just won the elusive Havasupai permits, but you've never backpacked before. Now what? Luckily, I've got you covered with a simple, beginner-friendly guide on how to train for Havasupai, so you feel confident on the trail. I have been hiking and camping for years. But before I went to Havasu Falls, the last time I had been backpacking was a college trip way back in the day. So, I knew that I had a lot of work to do. I've written ... Read the Post...
Every year, my friends and family ask me the same question: “What do I get someone who’s always hiking, road tripping, camping, or flying across the country for their next adventure?” So I finally put together my ultimate outdoorsy gift guide with the gear I actually use, love, and recommend. After visiting 57 National Parks, living in a van, and spending more days outside than inside, I’ve pretty much tested it all, the good, the bad, and the ... Read the Post...
Big Bend feels like another planet where golden sunsets turn the mountains golden, stars cover the sky, and silence stretches for miles. It's a wild park with tall, rugged mountains, the arid dessert, and dinosaur fossils 🦖. There's so many enchanting areas to explore in a Big Bend itinerary. I've been to 56 national parks and Big Bend is still one of my all time favorites. We spent a long weekend in this gorgeous park, exploring all the best ... Read the Post...
Every winter, Iceland’s glaciers transform into shimmering blue cathedrals of ice, and for a few short months, you can actually step inside them. Walking through the Iceland ice caves feels otherworldly the light dances, the air hums, and the walls glow an impossible shade of blue. Going on an Iceland ice cave tour was one of the most memorable moments of my trip last winter. We went on a super jeep tour to the Katla Cave near Reykjavik. ... Read the Post...
Walk through vivid scenes of rugged mountain peaks and peaceful meadows with views of glistening lakes below. The Paintbrush Canyon trail in Grand Teton National Park is one of the most serene and underrated hikes, a perfect alternative to the busier Jenny Lake routes. It's a relatively long trail at a minimum of 12.5 miles, which makes it quieter and less trafficked. Now, there are two ways to complete this trail: you can do the entire 19 ... Read the Post...
You've been scrolling through Instagram when all of a sudden you're transfixed by alluring turquoise waters surrounded by red cliffs. But getting a Havasupai permit to see them in person? Not so easy. After navigating the Havasupai Reservation system myself and being thoroughly confused, I put together this guide so you don't have to navigate multiple pages. It was honestly stress-inducing. 😬 This post has everything you need to know about ... Read the Post...
You finally scored those elusive Havasupai permits, congrats! Now you've probably heard about the "terrifying" hike down to Mooney Falls 😬 and you're wondering... How scary is it really? Well, I've got you covered. I tacked this hike with my husband that has a debilitating fear of heights. So, I can give you a real honest take on what to expect and how to conquer it. If you haven't booked your Havasupai reservation permit yet, start with my ... Read the Post...
Picture this: you're luxuriating in a warm pool with a glass of champagne in your hand and the sun is setting behind you. If that sounds ideal to you, then you need to visit one of the amazing bathing pools in Iceland. So, now the question that you may be asking should I visit the Sky Lagoon or Blue Lagoon? I've had the pleasure of visiting both of these pools, so I can finally answer that very question. Spoiler alert: neither! I loved ... Read the Post...
Dazzling fireworks, warm bonfires, and the mesmerizing aurora borealis combine to make New Years Eve in Iceland one of the most spectacular celebrations. It's one of the loudest and brightest celebrations in the world. After spending New Years in Iceland, I can confidently say that it's one of the most magical places to ring in the New Year. 🎆 We managed to enjoy a local bonfire, catch the elusive northern lights, and see the fireworks all ... Read the Post...
