You can drive to the Chaffin Cowboy Camp on Waterhole Flat (almost) in the Maze District of Canyonlands National Park, Utah. However, it’s more fun to bicycle or hike the access road to fully appreciate the views. (My hiking companions…
The Great Channels Slot Canyons
Possibly my favorite adventure in western Virginia last fall was The Great Channels, located north of Abingdon. The hike was steep, forested, and fairly uninteresting, but the top boasted great views before dropping you into a labyrinth of slot canyons…
Fiery Furnace with a Self-Guided Permit
Hiking the Fiery Furnace in Arches National Park requires a permit – but it’s well worth the cost and effort! The scenery is spectacular, the area is uncrowded (because of the permit system), and there are arches and rock formations…
Slit Canyon off Hole in the Wall Road
I had high hopes for Slit Canyon. And to be fair, the first part of the hike was gorgeous with scenery not typically experienced on the more famous trails in Death Valley National Park. However, the canyon itself wasn’t as…
A Few of the Best Trails in SW Virginia
I never thought I’d voluntarily explore southwestern Virginia. East Coast scenery just pales in comparison to the Rockies and beyond, so I spend most of my travel time west of the Mississippi. But a few weeks ago, I found myself…
Calcite Springs Overlook
The Calcite Springs Overlook is a quick and easy (and wheelchair-accessible) trek not far from Tower Junction in Yellowstone National Park. I hear the views of the springs are even better from the Yellowstone River Picnic Area Trail, but since…
Eye of the Whale Arch + Exploring Whale Canyon
Arches National Park is known for being overrun, but there are ways to get away from the crowds. Visit very early in the morning, or go in late November-February, and while you might not have the popular areas to yourself,…
Logistics for Hiking the South Kaibab Trail
They say not to hike the South Kaibab Trail rim to river to rim in a day. And having done it, I’d say they’re wise to advise against it. But since some of us are in excellent physical condition, very…
The Waterfall in Lower Monarch Canyon
I’ve had my eye on Lower Monarch Canyon ever since I first read about it back c.2021. A perennial waterfall in the desert reached via a desert walk and hiking up a canyon? Yes, please! The Monarch Canyon Waterfall in…
Walking Upper Cove Canyon near the Maze District
About 19.8 miles from the pavement of US-95, the Waterhole Flat Road crosses an unassuming wash. It’s actually fairly easy to find because a sideroad goes off just before the road dips to cross the dry watercourse. This is Cove…