From the moment you enter Badlands National Park, the landscape will amaze you. Towering rock formations, deep canyons, and colorful layers of sediment stretched across the horizon, creating a scene that felt more like another planet than the rolling prairies of South Dakota. As you're driving along the miles of open grassland, it's hard to believe that these rugged cliffs exist until you suddenly see them.

If you are searching for a unique outdoor adventure in Kansas, Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park offers a stunning escape into nature’s artistry. This hidden gem features striking rock formations, peaceful trails, and a chance to experience the rugged beauty of the badlands up close. Whether you are an avid hiker or simply enjoy scenic walks, the park’s Overlook Trail and Life on the Rocks Trail provide memorable experiences.

A few years ago, Justin and I decided on a whim to take a day trip to Lake McConaughy in Nebraska. I had recently received a US photo map for Christmas, and we wanted to find a spot in Nebraska to snap a memorable picture. We set off from Denver on a chilly March weekend, which turned out to be the perfect time for a quiet adventure. The lake was nearly deserted, giving us a rare chance to enjoy the area without crowds.

What would it be like to live in a house built into the side of a cliff? The first image that comes to mind is probably the cliff dwellings of Mesa Verde but what if I told you there was another park in New Mexico that you could explore ancient dwellings via ladders!? Bandelier National Monument near Los Alamos, New Mexico offers just that!

Finding time for adventure can feel impossible when you work a typical 9-to-5 job. But with a little planning, you can turn a long weekend into a memorable escape. Our recent trip from Denver to Taos, New Mexico, is a perfect example of how to pack a lot of outdoor fun into just three days. From hiking scenic trails to exploring unique landscapes, this trip shows that you don’t need weeks off to experience something amazing.

Arizona offers some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the United States, with its iconic national parks and the charming town of Sedona. If you only have a few days to explore, it’s crucial to plan carefully to see as much as possible. I recently took a trip to visit Arizona's 3 national parks and Sedona but only had a few days to do it in and want to share a practical itinerary and tips to help you make the most of your short trip.

When you think of the American West, images of rugged badlands, roaming bison, and wide-open skies often come to mind. Theodore Roosevelt National Park offers all this and more, spread across three units in western North Dakota. I’ve spent time exploring the North and South units, and I want to share what makes each unique, along with tips to help you get the most out of your visit.

When I first heard about Hot Springs National Park, I imagined a remote wilderness with bubbling springs hidden deep in the forest. Instead, I found a fascinating blend of natural wonder and small-town charm right in the heart of Hot Springs, Arkansas. This park is unlike any other because it exists within a bustling town, offering visitors a unique experience that combines history, nature, and relaxation.

Devil's Tower National Monument stands as one of the most striking natural landmarks in the United States. Its towering rock formation rises dramatically from the surrounding plains, drawing hikers, photographers, and nature lovers from all over. During my recent visit, I discovered not only the beauty of the monument itself but also some fantastic trails, practical tips for visitors, and interesting places nearby worth exploring.

Iceland’s south coast is a treasure trove of natural wonders, and its waterfalls stand out as some of the most stunning sights in the country. These waterfalls vary in size, shape, and setting, offering visitors a range of experiences from powerful cascades to gentle, scenic falls. Exploring these waterfalls reveals the raw beauty of Iceland’s volcanic landscape, glaciers, and rugged coastline.

During Christmastime last year we spent two weeks exploring the Canadian Rockies at Christmastime and Vancouver for New Years. Between weekends and days off for the holidays, I managed to go this entire trip with only taking a couple days off of work. I spent much of my working hours in the passenger seat of the car while Justin drove us from beautiful location to beautiful location.