The heart of North America beats through towering forests, undulating fields, high-plain deserts, pulsating metropolises and offbeat oases.a.
If you’re road-tripping through eastern Idaho, there’s a good chance Idaho Falls stopover shows up on your itinerary as a convenient overnight stop. It sits right in that sweet spot between Yellowstone, Jackson, Salt Lake City, and the long drive south toward Nevada and Utah. But Idaho Falls is more than just a place to sleep. On our trip, it became one of the most...
This year we spent Thanksgiving week doing something completely different: a road trip from Los Angeles to Yellowstone. We traded palm trees and traffic for desert canyons, snowy plains, the Black Hills, and the wild northern range of Yellowstone, where bison, elk, and wolves roam through steaming winter landscapes. This was a true “see everything” kind of route. In...
Snow Canyon State Park is one of the best places to visit in St. George Utah if you love red rock scenery, easy desert hikes, and quiet canyon views. Located just minutes from downtown St. George, this southern Utah state park feels surprisingly similar to Arizona. Think red sandstone cliffs, black lava rock, wide open desert landscapes, and glowing sunsets that look...
Winter in Yellowstone is a completely different world—quieter, wilder, and far more intimate than the summer version most travelers know. Roads close, snow piles high, and steam rises from the earth like something out of a dream. And suddenly, Yellowstone feels less like a national park and more like a true expedition. If you’ve ever wondered whether winter in...
The morning I left Mount Rushmore, the presidents were still staring out across the Black Hills with that calm, granite confidence they always seem to have. I loaded up the car, cranked up some country, and started west toward Yellowstone. I had every intention of making good time, but in true road trip fashion the journey had different plans for me. Two of them in...
The Black Hills of South Dakota offer sweeping views, rich cultural heritage, and two of the most iconic monuments in the United States. Crazy Horse vs Mount Rushmore creates a memorable combination for anyone exploring this region. For me and Michelle, this trip is also personal. We visited Crazy Horse more than 12 years ago when the monument was still deep in the...
If you’re planning a road trip through central Wyoming or driving toward Casper, one of the most worthwhile stops you can make is at Independence Rock State Historic Site. This massive granite monolith is steeped in American history and remains one of the most iconic landmarks along the Oregon Trail. Easy to access from Wyoming Highway 220, it’s the perfect quick...
If you are searching for an unforgettable day trip from Salt Lake City that blends prehistoric history, quiet landscapes, and small town Americana, Fossil Butte National Monument in southwest Wyoming should be at the top of your list. This hidden gem offers one of the richest fossil sites in the world along with hiking trails, scenic views, and a fascinating visitor...
If you’re short on time but don’t want to miss a thing, this Nagasaki 2 day itinerary is your perfect guide to exploring one of Japan’s most intriguing and culturally rich cities. From somber history and hidden Christian heritage to Dutch-inspired gardens and dazzling night views, this itinerary packs in the highlights without feeling rushed. Whether...
When you think of Big Bear Lake, you might picture snow-covered slopes and winter sports. But swap the skis for golf clubs in the summer, and you’ll discover Bear Mountain Golf Course, a peaceful 9-hole alpine escape offering cool temps, wide fairways, and panoramic mountain views. Last weekend, Karlye and I took full advantage of a clear mountain afternoon to play a...