Tag: Canadian Rockies

10 Amazing Places to RV in August 2026

August may be summer’s final chapter, but the road is still calling. Explore 10 incredible RV destinations featuring cool mountain escapes, scenic drives, dark skies, coastal adventures, and communities where slowing down is part of the experience.

 “Always try to keep a patch of sky above your life.”

—Marcel Proust

Legendary French novelist Marcel Proust spent much of his life exploring memory and time. With this simple line, he captures the importance of staying open to wonder, possibility, and the moments that lift us above the routines of everyday life. His “patch of sky” can be literal—a breath of fresh air—or symbolic, reminding us to make room for the experiences that nourish our spirits.

For RV travelers, that patch of sky is often found through the windshield of a motorhome, fifth wheel, or travel trailer. The open road creates space to slow down, embrace new experiences, and rediscover the curiosity that busy routines can take away.

August is often viewed as summer’s final chapter but for RV travelers, it is a month filled with possibilities. While much of the country is hot and crowded, the right route can lead to cooler mountains, quiet forests, scenic coastlines, and communities where summer still feels unhurried.

This month’s destinations are chosen for travelers willing to look beyond the obvious. From alpine lakes and mountain passes to coastal escapes and dark skies, these places reward those who slow down, stay awhile, and enjoy the journey as much as the destination.

Planning an RV trip for another time of year? Explore my monthly travel recommendations for the best places to RV throughout the seasons. You can also revisit my previous suggestions for June and July, along with earlier August and September destinations from 2025.

Every curve along Needles Highway reveals another breathtaking view, making this one of the most scenic drives in South Dakota’s Black Hills. © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

1. Sturgis Motorcycle Rally & Buffalo Chip Music Festival

Where motorcycles, music, and the Black Hills collide

Every August, the Black Hills of South Dakota become the center of the motorcycle world as the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally transforms a small town into one of the largest motorcycle gatherings on earth. Held August 7–16, 2026, the rally celebrates motorcycle culture with scenic rides, bike shows, stunt performances, vendors, and live entertainment that attracts riders from around the world.

For RV travelers, Sturgis is about more than the rally itself. The surrounding Black Hills offer some of the best touring in the country with nearby routes to Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial, Spearfish Canyon, and the Needles Highway. Just outside town, the legendary Buffalo Chip campground keeps the celebration going with nightly concerts including 2026 performances by Lynyrd Skynyrd and Lainey Wilson. Whether you arrive for the motorcycles, the music, or the scenery, Sturgis offers a memorable August road trip experience.

RV tip:

  • Reserve early—this is one of the busiest RV events of the year
  • Consider staying outside Sturgis and exploring the rally as part of a larger Black Hills adventure
  • Allow extra time; the scenic drives are as much a highlight as the event
Not every memorable sighting is a rarity. This scrub jay was one of many birds that made the Southeast Arizona Birding Festival a rewarding experience. © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

2. Southeast Arizona Birding Festival

Where desert skies come alive after the summer rains

The Sonoran Desert and southeastern Arizona’s Sky Island mountains are among the most biologically diverse regions in North America where desert landscapes meet mountain forests and an incredible variety of birds and wildlife thrive. In August, the summer monsoon transforms the region, bringing cooler temperatures, renewed vegetation, and increased wildlife activity.

Held August 12–16, 2026, the Southeast Arizona Birding Festival celebrates this unique environment with guided birding and wildlife tours, photography workshops, bird identification sessions, presentations, and cultural experiences. Hosted by the Tucson Bird Alliance, the festival fits perfectly with RV travelers who enjoy nature, photography, and a slower pace of discovery. Nearby destinations such as Madera Canyon, Mount Lemmon, and the San Pedro River Valley add even more opportunities to explore.

RV tip:

  • Base yourself in the Tucson area and explore the surrounding Sky Islands
  • Plan outings for early mornings when temperatures are cooler
  • Embrace the afternoon monsoon storms—they are part of the experience
Stretching between Jasper and Banff National Parks, the Icefields Parkway offers an unforgettable journey through the spectacular landscapes of the Canadian Rockies. © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

3. The Canadian Rockies

Where summer reaches its mountain peak

The Canadian Rockies offer some of the most spectacular scenery in North America with turquoise lakes, towering peaks, glaciers, and wildlife around every turn. From Banff and Jasper to Kananaskis and the legendary Icefields Parkway, this region is built for travelers who enjoy scenic roads and taking time to appreciate the landscape.

August is one of the best months to experience the Rockies. Snow has retreated from the high country, mountain roads are open, and long summer days provide ideal conditions for hiking, sightseeing, and exploring by RV. The Icefields Parkway alone makes the journey worthwhile with countless viewpoints, waterfalls, and opportunities to stop and enjoy the scenery along the way.

RV tip:

  • Reservations are essential, especially near Banff and Jasper
  • Consider staying outside the busiest park areas and exploring by day
  • Allow extra time—the scenic drives are part of the destination
Walking through historic Lititz feels like stepping into another era, where history, hospitality, and small-town charm come together. © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

4. Lititz, Pennsylvania

Where history, chocolate, and slow travel come together

Lititz is the kind of small town that rewards travelers who arrive without a strict itinerary. Located in the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch Country, this charming community blends Moravian heritage, historic buildings, local craftsmanship, and food traditions that have been passed down for generations.

For RV travelers, Lititz offers a chance to slow down and explore at an easy pace. Visit Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery, America’s first commercial pretzel bakery, discover the sweet history of Wilbur Chocolate, browse local shops, and enjoy the character of a walkable downtown. August is an ideal time to experience the town’s outdoor spaces, nearby farms, and the surrounding back roads of Lancaster County.

RV tip:

  • Use Lititz or nearby Lancaster as a base for exploring the region
  • Allow time to wander—the town’s charm is in the details
  • Combine your visit with Amish country, farms, and scenic countryside drives
Rolling pastures, white fences, and winding country roads capture the timeless beauty of Kentucky’s Bluegrass Country. © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

5. Corn Island Storytelling Festival

Where Kentucky stories come alive

Some travel experiences are not about famous landmarks—they are about the people, traditions, and stories that give a place its character. The Corn Island Storytelling Festival in Oldham County, Kentucky, celebrates that connection through two nights of storytelling, music, poetry, and regional history.

Held August 28–29, 2026, at 3rd Turn Oldham Gardens, the festival brings together storytellers, musicians, poets, historians, and performers for a celebration of “real people, real stories.” Founded in 1975 by Kentucky poet laureate Lee Pennington, the event explores everything from Appalachian traditions and Kentucky history to music, memories, and local culture.

For RV travelers, the festival offers a chance to slow down and experience a different side of Kentucky. Combine it with nearby horse farms, bourbon country, historic communities, and scenic back roads around Louisville and Oldham County.

RV tip:

  • Use the Louisville area as a base for exploring the region
  • Reserve accommodations early if attending festival weekend
  • Leave time to explore Kentucky’s back roads and small towns
Yoder’s Hardware & Department Store is more than a place to shop—it’s a Shipshewana tradition where old-fashioned service and timeless craftsmanship are still part of the experience. © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

6. Shipshewana, Indiana

Where simple pleasures still matter

Shipshewana is more than a shopping destination—it is a place where slowing down is part of the experience. Located in the heart of Indiana’s Amish Country, this small town invites visitors to step away from the rush and discover a community built around tradition, craftsmanship, and simple pleasures.

For RV travelers, Shipshewana offers the chance to experience a slower pace through country roads, handcrafted furniture, local restaurants, and one of the Midwest’s largest flea markets. Beyond the shopping, visitors can explore Amish traditions, watch skilled craftspeople at work, and discover the stories behind a way of life that values quality over speed. August is an ideal time to enjoy the area’s outdoor markets, farms, and peaceful countryside before the arrival of fall.

RV tip:

  • Allow several days to experience more than the flea market
  • Explore nearby Amish communities and scenic back roads
  • Visit midweek for a quieter experience during the busy summer season
By day, Theodore Roosevelt National Park’s badlands are spectacular. By night, they become one of the best places to experience the wonder of a truly dark sky. © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

7. Dakota Nights Astronomy Festival

Where prairie skies become a natural observatory

The wide-open landscapes of North Dakota offer something increasingly rare—a place where darkness still dominates the night sky. Set among the badlands, prairie grasslands, and river valleys of Theodore Roosevelt National Park, the Dakota Nights Astronomy Festival celebrates one of the region’s greatest natural resources: its stars.

Held August 14–15, 2026, the festival brings together telescope viewing, ranger-led astronomy programs, guest speakers, constellation tours, and opportunities for astrophotography. For RV travelers, it is an ideal combination of daytime exploration and nighttime discovery. Spend the day exploring the park’s scenic drives and wildlife, then watch the Milky Way emerge over the badlands after sunset.

RV tip:

  • Reserve camping early, especially during festival weekend
  • Bring binoculars or a telescope if you have them
  • Combine the festival with Medora, the park’s North Unit, and nearby scenic routes
The sugar-white sands of Alabama’s Gulf Coast invite travelers to slow down, breathe in the salt air, and enjoy the simple rhythm of the shore. © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

8. Gulf Shores, Alabama

Where coastal relaxation meets summer adventure

Alabama’s Gulf Shores offers RV travelers a classic Gulf Coast escape with miles of white-sand beaches, warm waters, and a relaxed coastal atmosphere. With 32 miles of shoreline, this destination provides the perfect balance of relaxation and outdoor adventure.

August is a great time to enjoy the Gulf Coast lifestyle before summer fades away. Spend mornings walking the beach, swimming, fishing, kayaking, or searching for dolphins along the coast. Beyond the water, visitors can enjoy local seafood, golf, wildlife attractions, and the restaurants and entertainment that make Gulf Shores a favorite family destination.

RV tip:

  • Reserve coastal RV sites well in advance during the summer season
  • Plan outdoor activities for mornings and evenings to avoid peak heat
  • Explore beyond the beach with nearby trails, seafood spots, and scenic drives
When the Sonoran Desert heats up, a scenic drive up Mount Lemmon offers cool mountain air, towering pines, and a refreshing change of pace. © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

9. Mount Lemmon, Arizona

Where the desert climbs into the mountains

Rising nearly 9,000 feet above Tucson, Mount Lemmon offers one of Arizona’s most dramatic landscape changes. Within a single drive, towering saguaros and desert shrubs give way to oak woodlands, pine forests, and cooler mountain air. It is an oasis in the Sonoran Desert and a reminder of how much variety can exist within a short distance.

August is one of the best times to make the climb. While temperatures soar across the desert floor, Mount Lemmon provides a refreshing escape with hiking, camping, fishing, scenic overlooks, and quiet mountain roads. After exploring during the day, visitors can enjoy some of the darkest skies in the Southwest at the Mount Lemmon SkyCenter. A stop at the Mount Lemmon Cookie Cabin adds a simple mountain tradition to the journey.

RV tip:

  • The Catalina Highway is steep and winding—check vehicle restrictions before traveling
  • Consider staying in the Tucson area and making Mount Lemmon a scenic day trip
  • Bring layers; temperatures can be dramatically cooler at higher elevations
Cedar Breaks may not have the fame of nearby Bryce Canyon, but its dramatic amphitheater of hoodoos rewards those willing to take the time to discover it. © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

10. Cedar Breaks National Monument, Utah

Where summer finds a cooler canyon escape

High in the mountains of southern Utah, Cedar Breaks National Monument offers a quieter alternative to some of the state’s better-known landscapes. At more than 10,000 feet in elevation, this colorful amphitheater of cliffs, hoodoos, and forested slopes provides cool mountain air, spectacular views, and a welcome escape from the summer heat.

August is an ideal time to experience Cedar Breaks. Wildflowers often brighten the alpine meadows, hiking trails are accessible, and the high elevation creates comfortable conditions for exploring the overlooks and surrounding Dixie National Forest. For RV travelers, Cedar Breaks pairs perfectly with nearby Brian Head, Cedar City, and scenic drives through Utah’s high country.

RV tip:

  • Stay nearby in Brian Head or Cedar City
  • Bring layers—summer temperatures can be cool at this elevation
  • Combine Cedar Breaks with other southern Utah destinations for a longer scenic route

Final thoughts

Savoring the last days of summer

“It’s a sure sign of summer if the chair gets up when you do.”
—Walter Winchell

Summer has a rhythm all its own. It is found in the warmth of the evening air, the sound of a camp chair unfolding beside the RV, and the simple pleasure of lingering a little longer before the day ends. The places we visit in August are memorable not only because of what we see but because of how they make us feel—the quiet moments, unexpected discoveries, and experiences that remind us why we travel.

For RV travelers, August is not simply summer’s final chapter; it is an invitation to savor the season. Whether watching stars rise over the prairie, following mountain roads, walking a coastal beach, or discovering a small town with a story to tell, the journey remains the reward. There are still roads to explore, places to discover, and memories waiting beyond the next horizon.

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Editor’s note

This article was originally published in July 2026. Information reflects what was accurate at the time of writing. Conditions, access, and amenities may change over time, so please verify current details before planning your trip.

To maintain transparency and editorial independence, this website contains no ads, no sponsored content, and no affiliate links—just firsthand RV travel experiences and practical information for fellow travelers.

Canada Is Offering Free Admission to Its National Parks This Summer: What RV Travelers Should Know

Canada is waiving admission fees to national parks, national historic sites, and national marine conservation areas from June 19 to September 7, 2026. For RV travelers, the opportunity goes beyond saving money. Increased access means more visitors, greater demand for campgrounds, and new reasons to explore lesser-known destinations. Here’s how to make the most of Canada’s free-admission summer while avoiding the crowds.

For RV travelers looking to stretch both their mileage and their travel budget, this summer brings an unusual opportunity north of the border. Canada is opening access to some of its most iconic protected landscapes including places like Banff National Park and Jasper National Park without requiring standard entry fees.

From June 19 to September 7, admission will be waived for national historic sites, national parks, and national marine conservation areas operated by Parks Canada. According to the Government of Canada, no entry pass or tickets will be required during this period, making it easier than usual to access many of the country’s protected landscapes.

Jasper National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Why this matters for RV travelers

More access means more choices—and more reason to slow down

For travelers moving through western Canada in particular, this opens the door to glacier-fed lakes, alpine valleys, and some of the largest protected wilderness areas in North America. It also means that some of the country’s most visited destinations will be more accessible than usual—something RV travelers will want to plan for carefully.

Banff and Jasper will likely remain the headline draws. These are the kinds of places where turquoise lakes, steep mountain corridors, and frequent roadside pullouts make slow travel not just ideal, but necessary. But beyond the famous names, the broader system of parks and protected areas stretches far wider, offering opportunities to step away from the most crowded corridors and into quieter, equally dramatic landscapes.

What makes this announcement especially relevant for RV travel is not just the cost savings but the timing. Summer is already peak season in the Canadian Rockies and beyond. Removing entry fees will likely increase visitation which means campground reservations, route planning, and flexibility will matter more than ever.

For RVers, this isn’t just a promotional window—it’s a chance to rethink how to move through Canada’s parks with intention, patience, and a willingness to slow down when the scenery demands it.

Banff National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

The most visited parks will feel the impact first

The best-known parks will likely be the busiest

This change applies across the system but the most immediate impact will be felt in Canada’s best-known destinations.

That includes Jasper National Park in Alberta which was ranked as the top national park in Canada to visit under this program, according to a study by Canadian tour operator Journeyscape shared with Travel + Leisure. As the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies and the world’s second-largest dark sky preserve, Jasper offers an extensive trail network and frequent wildlife sightings including black and grizzly bears, bighorn sheep, and mountain goats.

The park’s popularity is not exactly a secret. According to the same report, Jasper has been tagged or photographed on Instagram more than 3.5 million times—an indication of just how heavily traveled it has become in recent years, especially during peak summer season.

Close behind is Banff National Park which ranked second in the study. Known for its dramatic alpine scenery and iconic turquoise lakes, Banff is part of the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks UNESCO World Heritage Site and remains one of the most recognizable protected landscapes in North America.

Rounding out the top three is Waterton Lakes National Park, a quieter but strategically located destination that shares a border with Glacier National Park. For RV travelers crossing between the U.S. and Canada, this pairing offers an unusual opportunity to experience two connected ecosystems in a single trip. Waterton is especially known for its compact scale, hiking routes, and lake access for kayaking in calmer conditions than its northern neighbors.

Jasper National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Access is easier. Availability is not.

Savings help, but planning still matters

The Journeyscape study factored in visitor attendance, Google review scores, biodiversity, and overall park size when ranking destinations. While the methodology blends different types of metrics, the result reinforces something RV travelers already know: the most famous parks tend to concentrate both the highest beauty and the highest demand.

In addition to waived admission, travelers during this period may also see a 25 percent discount on overnight stays and camping fees within participating Parks Canada locations. However, the discount is limited and applies only to accommodations—not extras such as firewood, parking fees, or other services.

Parks Canada also emphasizes advance planning, as discounted stays are offered on a first-come, first-served basis. For RV travelers, that detail matters as much as the scenery. In peak season, flexibility can make the difference between a rushed stop and a place worth lingering for several days.

Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park, Alberta © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Where the free admission does not apply

Not every park falls under the program

While the program opens access to a wide range of destinations operated by Parks Canada, it does not extend across all parks and outdoor areas in the country. For RV travelers planning multi-region routes, this distinction is important—especially when crossing between provinces or combining national and local park systems.

Parks Canada free admission does not apply to:

  • Provincial or territorial parks such as Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park in Alberta and Wells Gray Provincial Park in British Columbia
  • Parks and protected areas managed by Sépaq including Québec’s provincial park system
  • Municipal parks and local recreation areas
  • Private parks or privately managed outdoor sites
  • Historic sites or attractions not operated directly by Parks Canada
  • Locations operated by third-party concessionaires or independent operators

For RV travelers, this means the program is best understood as a national parks system benefit—not a blanket pass for all outdoor destinations in Canada. In practice, it still covers many of the country’s most iconic landscapes but travelers should expect a mix of included and non-included sites depending on province, operator, and park classification.

Elk Island National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

RV travel strategy: How to make the most of the window

Smart planning turns opportunity into experience

For RV travelers, this announcement is less about last-minute savings and more about timing. The summer window—from June 19 to September 7—coincides with peak travel season across western Canada which means the experience will be shaped as much by planning as by opportunity.

The first and most important consideration is reservations. Even with admission fees waived, campground demand in places like Banff National Park and Jasper National Park typically fills weeks or even months in advance during summer. RV travelers who prefer flexibility may need to build itineraries around less congested base areas rather than relying on availability inside the most popular parks.

A second strategy is to anchor your trip in multiple regions rather than a single park corridor. The Canadian Rockies naturally draw the most attention but spreading out stops—combining major parks with quieter alternatives—can reduce congestion and create a more balanced route. This is especially important during a period when visitation is expected to increase.

Timing within the day also matters. Early mornings and late evenings are often the most rewarding hours in high-traffic parks, not only for lighting and scenery but also for road conditions, parking availability, and wildlife activity. Midday hours tend to bring the heaviest congestion at viewpoints and along main park corridors.

RV travelers should also plan for longer dwell times rather than quick pass-through visits. The scale of these landscapes—especially in the Rockies—does not reward rushed travel. Building in extra nights in fewer places often results in a more meaningful experience than trying to cover multiple headline parks in a short span.

Finally, flexibility remains essential. Even with advance planning, peak-season travel in Canada can shift quickly due to weather, wildfire activity, or campground availability. Having alternate routes or secondary destinations in mind can help maintain momentum without sacrificing the overall experience.

In practice, this summer window is less about “seeing everything” and more about choosing where to slow down—and allowing the landscape to set the pace.

Fort Assiniboine National Historic Park, Alberta © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Beyond Banff and Jasper: Quieter parks worth the detour

Some of Canada’s best parks lie beyond the spotlight

While the Canadian Rockies tend to dominate most itineraries, the broader national park system offers a far wider range of landscapes—often with fewer crowds and a slower pace that suits RV travel particularly well.

One of the most dramatic eastern destinations is Gros Morne National Park where ancient fjord-carved landscapes meet rugged coastline and exposed geological formations. It’s a reminder that Canada’s park system extends well beyond alpine terrain into deeply different coastal environments.

Further west, Fundy National Park in New Brunswick showcases some of the world’s highest tides while Cape Breton Highlands National Park in Nova Scotia combines coastal drives with dramatic cliffside views along the Cabot Trail. On Prince Edward Island, Prince Edward Island National Park offers red sandstone shores, dunes, and long stretches of coastline that seem made for unhurried exploration.

In Ontario, Bruce Peninsula National Park draws visitors with turquoise waters and limestone cliffs overlooking Georgian Bay while Point Pelee National Park protects one of Canada’s most important bird migration corridors and wetland ecosystems.

The Prairie provinces offer a different kind of beauty. Riding Mountain National Park in Manitoba blends forest, lake, and grassland landscapes into a single destination. In neighboring Saskatchewan, Grasslands National Park preserves one of the country’s last remaining mixed-grass prairie ecosystems, delivering vast horizons and some of the darkest night skies in southern Canada.

For travelers heading toward the Rockies, Elk Island National Park makes an easy and rewarding stop just east of Edmonton. Best known for its free-roaming plains and wood bison, the park offers excellent wildlife viewing, quiet camping, and dark-sky experiences without the crowds typically associated with Banff and Jasper.

On the western side of the Rockies, Yoho National Park and Kootenay National Park provide quieter alternatives to their more famous neighbors, with waterfalls, canyons, mountain passes, and scenic campgrounds that often feel less hurried.

Finally, Pacific Rim National Park Reserve on Vancouver Island delivers an entirely different experience. Here, rainforest trails lead to rugged Pacific beaches where the rhythm of the ocean replaces the drama of the mountains.

Taken together, these parks highlight one of the greatest advantages of this summer’s admission waiver: the opportunity to look beyond the headline destinations and discover a wider, more varied cross-section of Canada’s natural landscapes.

Rocky Mountain goats in Jasper National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Final takeaway: A season built for slower miles

The real reward isn’t saving money—it’s taking your time

Opportunities like this don’t change the landscape itself—they change the way travelers move through it. With admission fees waived across national parks, historic sites, and marine conservation areas operated by Parks Canada from June 19 to September 7, the real shift is less financial and more behavioral.

For RV travelers, this summer creates a rare alignment of access and timing. The routes are the same, the mountains are the same, the coastlines and prairies are unchanged—but the threshold for entering them is lower which naturally invites more movement, more stops, and more pressure on the most popular corridors.

That makes intention more important than coverage. The instinct to “see it all” can be strong when the barrier to entry drops, especially in places like Banff National Park and Jasper National Park. But RV travel has always worked best when it resists that impulse. The most memorable stretches of road are rarely the ones packed into a schedule—they’re the ones allowed to unfold without urgency.

There is also a quiet advantage to traveling during a period like this: it encourages redistribution. When attention spreads beyond the headline parks, places like prairie grasslands, coastal reserves, and inland forest corridors become more than side notes. They become viable anchors for a trip in their own right.

In that sense, this summer is less about discounted access and more about optionality. The ability to choose differently, linger longer, and step slightly off the expected route without losing momentum.

For RV travelers, that may be the real value—not the fact that the parks are open but the reminder that they were never meant to be consumed quickly in the first place.

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Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in June 2026. Information reflects what was accurate at the time of writing. For topics that may change quickly, please verify current details before planning. To ensure honesty and avoid bias, this website features no ads, no sponsored content, and no affiliate links—just straightforward information for fellow travelers.

Jasper National Park Seeks Visitor Photos to Track Glacier Changes

Launched in August 2025, the Icy Initiative invites visitors to participate in glacier monitoring by using specially designed “Icy” cell phone stands installed at key glacier viewpoints

Protecting national parks remains a major struggle across Canada and in the United States. Disruptions in parks continue to take place harming both the environment and wildlife. We have seen minor punishments for Canadians harassing wildlife with drones. At Riding Mountain National Park, a warden issued a $1,680 fine for drone use—a penalty we can all agree was insufficient.

Efforts to sustain the country’s most beloved parks continue. Parks Canada has just launched the Icy Initiative in partnership with the University of Waterloo. The move is generally seen as a positive, but, at the same time, shows just how concerning conditions are in Jasper National Park, especially over time.

The Icy Initiative is a citizen science project led by Parks Canada and the University of Waterloo to monitor glacier regression in Jasper National Park.

Here’s a closer look at the latest issue and how park visitors can help.

Columbia Icefield, Jasper National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Parks Canada is asking visitors for help over the glacier regression in Jasper National Park

The Icy Initiative to address glacier regression

Jasper National Park remains a staple for Canadians and tourists with over 2.5 million visitors annually on average. This number may rise in 2025 due to the domestic surge of Canadians visiting national parks matched with Canada’s Strong Pass allowing free access to national parks until September.

Despite its substantial number of visits, there are concerns. The University of Waterloo and Park Canada are now asking visitors for help on how they can get involved in key scientific research.

Launched by Parks Canada, the new citizen science program aims to take a closer look at the glacier regression taking place at Jasper National Park and Glacier National Park (in British Columbia). Smartphone stands have now been set up and installed at certain glacier viewpoints. According to CBC, repeat photography over time can provide researchers with further data on the gradual changes to the glaciers.

Researchers have used the same “repeat photography” tactic in the past to research glacier changes.

Columbia Icefield, Jasper National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

How it works

A citizen science project

The program asks visitors to help track glacier regression by taking photos at designated glacier viewpoints in Jasper National Park. Cellphone stands have been installed at these checkpoints where visitors can place their phones and use a QR code to submit photos. These images, part of a repeat photography effort help researchers monitor gradual changes in glaciers over time and raise awareness about environmental changes. The initiative also aims to foster a deeper connection between visitors and the landscape particularly at sites like the Athabasca Glacier.

At the checkpoints, visitors place their phone on the stands and enter the QR code located on the stands. With the QR code, the photo can be submitted and accessed by science groups, researchers, and the general public.

Chris Houser, dean of science and a professor of earth and environmental sciences at the University of Waterloo is “mindblown” by the amount of images already collected.

Houser added that although the data is key showing visitors how quickly the landscape is shifting is the biggest goal of the project.

“We can’t be everywhere all at once. By having these stands we’re getting more people to see what is happening to help us record that data and to begin to build that science even further.”

Columbia Icefield, Jasper National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Jasper National Park has the most stunning glaciers and icefields in Canada

Icy Initiative tie- ins

Jasper National Park holds the largest bodies of ice still standing in Canada’s Rocky Mountains. However, Parks Canada has also indicated that the landform has been altered throughout the years.

“Every ecosystem and landform has been moved, affected, shaped and modified by them. Glaciers found in Jasper release water that impacts the well-being of even more ecosystems and landforms found far from here. And, these glaciers impact millions of people living downstream in North America.”

The glaciers in Jasper National Park are endless including the Athabasca Glacier, Canada’s most accessible glacier and arguably the best known.

Columbia Icefield, Jasper National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Jasper National Park glaciers

Overview of Jasper’s key glaciers

Jasper National Park’s glaciers are primarily part of the Columbia Icefield, the largest icefield in the Canadian Rockies with some additional glaciers scattered throughout the park. Below is a list of the main glaciers in Jasper National Park focusing on those within or associated with the Columbia Icefield as well as other notable glaciers in the park:

  • Athabasca Glacier: Most accessible, located along the Icefields Parkway in the Columbia Icefield, iconic for its shimmering ice and guided tours, feeds the Athabasca River flowing to the Arctic Ocean.
  • Saskatchewan Glacier: Largest in the Columbia Icefield, less accessable but visible from viewpoints like Parker Ridge, feeds the North Saskatchewan River.
  • Dome Glacier: A smaller glacier in the Columbia Icefield visible from the Icefield Centre and nearby trails.
  • Stutfield Glacier: Located in the Columbia Icefield best viewed from Stutfield Glacier Viewpoint or aerial tours, known for its dramatic icefalls and remote beauty.
  • Columbia Glacier: Remote, namesake of the Columbia Icefield, feeds the Columbia River flowing to the Pacific Ocean, less accessible and primarily visible from high vantage points or aerial tours.
  • Castleguard Glacier:Backcountry glacier located near the southern edge of the Columbia Icefield near Castleguard Meadows, less accessible due to its remote location, accessible via backcountry routes like the Castleguard Meadows trail.
  • Angel Glacier: Hanging glacier at Mount Edith Cavell, visible via Cavell Meadows Trail, famous for its picturesque setting and accessibility via the Cavell Meadows Trail.
  • Cavell Glacier: Below Angel Glacier seen from Path of the Glacier Trail with icebergs in Cavell Pond.

These glaciers, especially those in the Columbia Icefield, are critical for feeding rivers flowing to the Pacific, Arctic, and Atlantic Oceans but they’re shrinking rapidly making initiatives like the Icy Initiative vital.

Columbia Icefield, Jasper National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Tracking forest recovery after wildfires

Citizen science initiative to monitor tree regeneration

Jasper National Park is implementing a citizen science initiative to monitor tree regeneration following the 2024 wildfires modeled after a similar program for tracking glacier regression. In partnership with the University of Waterloo, Parks Canada is encouraging visitors to contribute by taking photos particularly along the Old Fort Point Trail to document tree growth over time. This approach aims to gather data on forest recovery while fostering a deeper connection between visitors and the park’s environment. The project draws inspiration from the success of repeat photography used to study glacier changes where smartphone stands are set up at specific viewpoints to capture consistent images.

Natural regeneration is already underway with species like trembling aspen, fireweed, wild strawberry, and willows showing early signs of regrowth. Parks Canada has also planted 5,000 Douglas fir seedlings in fire-damaged areas chosen for their fire-resistant traits like thick bark and deep roots to aid forest recovery and prevent soil erosion near water bodies. Over the coming years additional planting of aspen and willow trees is planned to further stabilize soils and support ecosystem recovery.

The 2024 Jasper Wildfire which burned 32,722 hectares was the largest in the park in over a century. While natural forest regeneration can take decades to centuries early vegetation like grasses and forbs appears quickly followed by tree establishment and canopy development. Lodgepole pine, a fire-dependent species, is expected to regenerate naturally in areas like the Southesk Valley where prescribed burns have been used to promote healthy reseeding.

This initiative not only supports scientific research but also aligns with Jasper’s broader recovery efforts emphasizing ecological resilience and community engagement. Visitors are encouraged to respect restoration zones and stay on designated trails to support these efforts.

What are your thoughts on this idea? Is it a positive? Should more parks across North America use similar initiatives as a way of spreading more awareness?

Chime in down below!

Worth Pondering…

Alberta Bound

This piece of heaven that I’ve found
Rocky Mountains and black fertile ground
Everything I need beneath that big blue sky
Doesn’t matter where I go
This place will always be my home
Yeah I’ve been Alberta Bound for all my life
And I’ll be Alberta Bound until I die.

—Lyrics and recording by Alberta born Country Music singer, Paul Brandt, 2004

Canada Reacts to Fewer American Travelers

In response to the declining number of American travelers visiting Canada, Canadian government agencies and tourism boards have launched heartfelt and welcoming campaigns to re-engage U.S. tourists

It has been well-documented that Canadians are avoiding the United States. Instead, they are setting domestic travel records during the tension such as posting record-breaking Airbnb numbers. Canadian domestic travel is booming with 77 percent of Canadians planning to stay within the country this summer, up from 69 percent in 2024.

In the meantime, Americans feel unwanted in Canada. The U.S. government has pushed back on an electronic device warning issued by Canada at the border calling the claims “well-founded fear” and citing isolated incidents.

Regardless, Americans are also visiting Canada less these days. I’ll take a closer look at the decrease in Americans visiting Canada. Canadian agencies are taking note of the decline and welcoming Americans back with open arms.

I’ll also look at how the Canadian tourism sector has reacted in recent months with summer around the corner.

Jasper National Park, Alberta © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Canada has responded by welcoming US tourists with open arms via emotional ad campaigns

It was expected. Americans have pushed back and are decreasing travel plans to Canada. We have seen several examples of Americans feeling unwanted north of the border. Back in February, Canadian NHL fans booed the U.S. National Anthem basically until the regular season came to an end. In turn, this led to a steep decline with land trips dropping by as much as 10.7 percent in April compared to the same period last year.

In May 2025, trips by U.S. residents to Canada by air decreased slightly by 0.3 percent year over year while arrivals by automobile dropped more significantly by 8.4 percent compared to May 2024. Similarly, in March 2025, U.S. trips to Canada declined 6.6 percent year over year driven largely by an 8.7 percent drop in arrivals by car although air arrivals saw a modest increase of 2.2 percent.

So, how are Canadian tourism agencies reacting? Very simply, they are welcoming Americans with open arms through ad campaigns. They have launched several media campaigns in 2025 aimed at encouraging Americans to travel to Canada and reassuring them they will be warmly welcomed despite political tensions and trade disputes between the two countries.

Isabelle Charlebois, General Director of Tourism Eastern Townships in Quebec, discussed the approach to running ads in New England and New York State ensuring that Americans know they are still welcome here.

“It was really important for us to send the message to these visitors … that they are truly welcome, not to be scared to visit us,” she tells CBC.

“Where are you visiting from,” the Canadian clerk says in the ad. The visitor whispers, “I’m American.” The ad ends with the clerk welcoming the guest and the slogan, “Come hug it out in Eastern Town”. This campaign was motivated by many Americans expressing anxiety about whether they would be welcomed.

Other hotspots in Canada are also using unique campaigns to welcome Americans back. Niagara Falls Tourism launched a page directly welcoming Americans. In Ontario, summer bookings for American visitors dropped by 32 percent compared to last year, according to CBC.

Repairing this remains a key priority for Ontario tourism, as well as the rest of Canada.

Banff National Park, Alberta © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Americans are visiting Canada less than last year

The numbers tell the story: fewer Americans are visiting. The lack of Canadians in the U.S. has been well documented but the number of Americans in Canada is also worth exploring.

In May, 1,044,700 trips were made to Canada by land resulting in an 8.4 percent decrease compared to 2024. The same drop held for air travel with numbers falling by 0.3 percent.

Learn more about traveling to Canada

Okanagan Wine Country, British Columbia © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Canadian visits to the U.S. in May

  • Down 24.2 percent in returning air travel trips compared to 2024
  • Decrease in return trip travel by car fell to 38.1 percent compared to last year
  • April also saw a 19.9 percent drop in air travel by Canadians to the U.S.

With Air Canada, WestJet, and Air Transat reducing flights to the United States by 10 percent, air travel is likely to trend downward for the rest of the year compared to last year.

In response, several airlines have reduced the capacity of flights to the United States.

Wells Gray Peovincial Park, British Columbia © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Choose Canada this summer with the new Canada Strong Pass

The pass which launched on Friday and ends September 2 doesn’t require registration or a physical card. Instead, the benefits will be available upon arrival at parks, national museums, and when booking train tickets. Canadians and American and other out-of-country visitors are eligible.

The Pass includes:

  • Parks Canada: Free admission for all visitors to national historic sites, national parks, and national marine conservation areas administered by Parks Canada and a 25 percent discount on camping fees.
  • National museums and the Plains of Abraham Museum: Free admission for children aged 17 and under and a 50 percent discount for young adults aged 18 to 24.
  • VIA Rail: Free travel for children aged 17 and under when accompanied by an adult and a 25 percent discount for young adults aged 18 to 24.
  • Selected participating provincial and territorial museums and galleries: Free admission for children and a 50 percent discount for young adults aged 18 to 24.
Mount Robson Provincial Park, British Columbia © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

British Columbia is also launching a social media campaign to lure Americans back

In B.C., the Great Bear Lodge has seen a 28 percent decline in American bookings.

In response, the Commercial Bear Viewing Association has launched a significant campaign, welcoming Americans back into B.C. The campaign has been pinned to the front of their Instagram page.

It reads, “Lately, our neighbours in the south have been asking: “Can we still come visit?” Our answer is simple and sincerely Canadian: YES! Here in British Columbia, we understand that nature can be the perfect escape from the uncertainties of modern life. Bears wandering our ancient forests, rivers rushing wild, mountainous views, and the people? We’re still here, and we’ve held on to our trademark Canadian ways. We’re ready to welcome you with open arms… and, of course, we’re sorry you even had to ask.”

The message was met with positivity online with little pushback from Canadians and Americans. It remains to be seen if Canada’s current plan will smooth things over for either side.

At the very least, an attempt is being made.

Worth Pondering…

Alberta Bound
My truck tore across Montana
Ian Tyson sang a lonesome lullaby
And so I cranked up the radio
Cause there’s just a little more to go
For I’d cross the border at that Sweet Grass sign
I’m Alberta Bound.

—Lyrics and recording by Alberta born Country Music singer, Paul Brandt, 2004

8 Cool RV Destinations to Beat the Summer Heat

Ah, the joys of summer. There’s nothing like sweating under a glaring sun to make you truly forget what’s so great about the great outdoors. While some travelers embrace hot sunny rays others feel like drooping when the mercury rises. If you’d like to beat the summer heat, check out these destinations for relief.

Your summer vacation does not have to be hiding indoors in front of the air conditioner trying to stay cool from high temperatures or unbearable humidity. There are lots of places in summer where you can enjoy beautiful pleasant temperatures while spending time outside. Whether you prefer cities, towns, national or state parks, mild summer weather is available in many spectacular destinations.

As summer descends on the United States, the mercury begins to soar in many places with daily temperatures reaching into the triple digits. While you could embrace the heat like a lizard or retreat behind air conditioning for the next few months, perhaps you should consider a refreshing getaway to cooler climes.

Here is a great article to help you do just that: High-Elevation RVing: How to Beat the Heat and Camp in Perfect Weather

Here are eight favorite spots for beating the worst of the summer heat.

Cedar Breaks National Monument © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

1. Cedar Breaks National Monument, Utah

Situated at an elevation of 10,000 feet, Cedar Breaks is shaped like a giant coliseum dropping 2,000 feet to its floor.

Cedar Breaks resembles a miniature Bryce Canyon. Some visitors say its brilliant colors even surpass Bryce. The Native Americans called Cedar Breaks the Circle of Painted Cliffs. Millions of years of uplift and erosion have carved this huge amphitheater.

Deep inside the coliseum are stone spires, columns, arches, pinnacles, and intricate canyons in varying shades of red, yellow, and purple. The bristlecone pine, one of the world’s oldest trees, grows in the area and can be found along the Spectra Point Trail. The Dixie National Forest surrounds Cedar Breaks providing lush alpine meadows clustered with ponderosa pines and quaking aspens. During the summer months, the wildflower display is spectacular.

Cedar Breaks’ neighbor, Brian Head Resort is also a superb spot to seek cooler temps resort-style. The mountain’s tallest summer hiking trail takes you near the summit of 11,307-foot Brian Head Peak. And if you feel resort-y (or have kids in tow), you’ll definitely want to hit up the zip line, bungee trampoline, bike trails, disc golf course, or climbing wall while you’re at it.

Here are some helpful resources:

Stowe Community Church © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

2. Stowe, Vermont

Stowe is a Vermont Ski town that is lovely to visit in summer thanks to an Alpine setting that doesn’t get too hot and lots of outdoor activities. It is one of the best places to spend time to avoid extreme summer heat.

Summer weather ranges from high 60s to high 70s. There is little temperature difference between June, July, and August and only 4 percent of the days are humid.

For fun summer hiking, choose trails that lead to waterfalls like the easy Bingham Falls Trail in Smugglers Notch State Park or Moss Glen Falls trail in nearby Putnam State Park.

For more challenging hikes, take the ski gondola to the top of Mansfield Mountain where it can be cold and windy even when it’s warm down below. A handful of trails start at the top of the mountain and reward you with stellar views of the Green Mountains. However, be prepared for rugged trails that require proper hiking boots and a willingness to go scrambling over rocks.  

A greenway starts in town and winds for several miles toward the ski mountain. It’s an easy and scenic ride with ample opportunities to stop at local brew pubs, cideries, and ice cream shops that sell Vermont creamies, dense, high-fat soft-serve ice cream often flavored with maple syrup. With all the outdoor activities, you can indulge without any guilt!

Bryce Canyon National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

3. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah

Thor’s Hammer, monstrous hoodoos, and a Sinking Ship. Bryce Canyon’s red-orange-pink amphitheaters stage a Norse myth 70 million years in the making.

Wind, water, and time have eroded Bryce Canyon National Park‘s sandstone cliffs into otherworldly characters plucked from the unconscious of a mad Viking. Rows of humanoid pillars crosshatched by rock strata look almost intentional but perfectly surreal. So silent, eerie, and beautiful! So improbable it has to be true.

If you need ideas, check out:

Ocean Drive, Newport © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

4. Newport, Rhode Island

Set on Rhode Island’s Aquidneck Island is the coastal city of Newport. This resort town is a cool, relaxing destination to explore in the summertime. Its rich Gilded Age history and sailboat-filled marinas make for a scenic and luxurious vacation. 

Soak up ocean views. Newport has panoramic ocean views that go on for miles. The best way to capture it is to take a stroll along the Cliff Walk. This 3.5-mile cliffside trail features tranquil picnic spots, benches, and access points to other interesting Newport experiences. 

Insider tip: If you plan to walk the entirety of the Cliff Walk wear layers, sturdy shoes, and sunblock. Utilize the public restroom found a mile into the walk—it’s the only one directly along the route.

Tour the lavish mansions. The most famous Newport features are its Gilded Age mansions found across the city. These lavish summer cottages built for the rich and famous are open to the public for tours. Head to Bellevue Avenue to explore the iconic Breakers and Marble House.

Mount Washington Cog Railway © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

5. White Mountains, New Hampshire

New Hampshire’s White Mountains comprise stunning alpine peaks cloaked in forest. The higher you go, the cooler it will be. While low elevations see summer temperatures in the mid-70s the high points are perpetually chilly sometimes not even shedding their layers of snow until well into July.

Temperatures on Mount Washington, the tallest peak in the Northeast range from about 40 to 55 degrees at the height of summer. Visitors can climb out of the heat by foot on the many hiking trails or drive up the slopes on the scenic Kancamagus Highway.

There are some special towns nestled in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. Quaint villages like Sugar Hill enjoy blooming fields of lupines in the summer while North Conway is home to ziplining tours and Alpine Slide adventures.  

The White Mountains are filled with exciting activities like hikes and sweeping summit views. Ride the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway to feel like you’re flying, hike the famous Artists Bluff Loop, or drive to the summit of Mount Washington. Don’t want to take the difficult hike or the foreboding drive up to Mount Washington? Ride the historic Mount Washington Cog Railway. This steam train will chug its way up to the summit.  

Lake Champlain © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

6. Lake Champlain, New York and Vermont

Nestled between Quebec, Vermont, and New York is the freshwater Lake Champlain. Surrounded by the New York Adirondacks to its west and the Vermont Green Mountains to its east a summer at Lake Champlain offers fun recreational opportunities in every direction. 

Take a lakeside stroll. For a lakefront park with plenty of outdoor activities head to Point Au Roche State Park in New York. Its open-forest walking trails and sandy beaches along Lake Champlain will have you exploring for hours. 

Discover Burlington. Situated on the eastern shore of Lake Champlain is the picturesque town of Burlington, Vermont. Locals love getting active at Waterfront Park and Burlington Bike Path. If you want to venture away from the lake browse the eclectic shops of Church Street Marketplace. 

Insider tip: Burlington has its own folklore: Champ the Lake Monster. Sightings of this Loch Ness-looking monster in Lake Champlain date as far back as the 1800s, and since then there have been over 300 sighting claims. Can you spot Champ?  

Icefields Parkway connects Banff and Jasper National Parks © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

7. Banff National Park, Alberta

Banff National Park is not only one of the most breathtaking places on earth but it also offers cool temps during the summer months with highs around 72 and lows in the upper 40s. If you’re looking for a mountain retreat with mild weather, fishing, hiking, and mountain biking this is your spot.

Banff Townsite offers lots of small-town charms as well as making a great base for exploring the gorgeous glacier-fed lakes and a multitude of wildlife. It even boasts a thriving arts and culture scene with a number of museums, art galleries, and concert venues along with a diverse array of fine restaurants and shops.

Enjoy the scenery and wildlife on Icefields Parkway named a Drive of a Lifetime by National Geographic. It traces the Continental Divide and connects two national parks, Banff and Jasper as well as Lake Louise and Jasper Townsite. Taking the ride to the top of 7,500-foot Sulphur Mountain from Banff provides panoramic views of the park.

Thumb Butte Trail, Prescott

8. Prescott, Arizona

Nestled at an elevation of 5,200 feet above sea level among the largest stand of ponderosa pine forests in the U.S., Prescott‘s breathtaking landscapes are complete with granite mountains, lakes, streams, and rolling meadows. With two lakes to choose from, several options for paddling on the water are found in this Arizona mountain town. Canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards await to help visitors get out and explore. Plan a ride around a full moon and enjoy the glow on the water, peaceful surroundings, and nighttime views.

When not on the lakes activities include horseback riding, golfing, hiking, mountain biking, shopping, or visiting the local breweries and restaurants.

Once the territorial capital of Arizona the City of Prescott is rich with Western history embodied in its world-famous Whiskey Row, abundant historical landmarks, and the World’s Oldest Rodeo.

Sharlot Hall Museum is the perfect place for families to learn the town’s history. Tour historic homes, explore educational exhibits, and wander through the gardens. Kids can complete a scavenger hunt and redeem it at the museum store for a prize.

Step outside of town and explore the beautiful Prescott National Forest. Pack and picnic lunch and take a hike while basking in the fresh wilderness air. The Thumb Butte Trail, just minutes from downtown leads visitors on a two-mile loop with views of the area and interpretive signs. 

There are also two lakes in the area for recreation and fishing. Unique rock formations surround Watson Lake, creating fun channels to kayak through. Alternatively, Lynx Lake is lined by tall pine trees. Both lakes offer onsite kayak and canoe rentals.

For an overnight stay in Prescott, check out the many camping options in Prescott National Forest including RV sites and dispersed camping.

Worth Pondering…

Summertime and the living is easy. Fish are jumping and the cotton is high.

—Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong, Summertime

The 25 Most Breathtaking Places in the U.S. and Canada to Visit in your Lifetime

These are 25 of the most breathtaking for RV travel

What is the most breathtaking place in America? To compile the most breathtaking places in the U.S. and Canada is an inherently subjective and impossible task but we’d like to think that this list at least scratches the surface of some of the extraordinary beauty the continent has to offer.

Focusing largely on national parks, mountains, beaches, deserts, and other natural wonders, my list is sure to inspire your next RV road trip. Join me for a journey to some of the most breathtaking places that you can visit in an RV from mountains that rival the Alps to red rock wonder with colorful layers to glorious underground caverns.

There are so many amazing places to see, I couldn’t possibly include them all in just one list. But, these breathtaking destinations are worth bumping to the top of your travel bucket list—whether you’re looking to relax on a beach, get off the grid, or explore a charming town—these are the most beautiful locations to consider.

Bryce Canyon National Park  Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

1. Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah

Bryce Canyon’s name is rather deceiving. Instead of containing a canyon what it does have are stone pinnacles that were formed naturally over time due to erosion from the stream and weathering during winter’s frost. Multiple points throughout this park offer a stupendous view, but your best bet is Bryce Point in the southern region. From here, you’ll have a prime viewing of all the amazing stone formations known as hoodoos scattered about the area.

>> Get more tips for visiting Bryce Canyon National Park

Jasper National Park  Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

2. Jasper National Park, Alberta

Jasper can sometimes be overshadowed by its cousin to the south, Banff, but the park is the definition of wild and scenic. It’s the largest park in the Canadian Rockies as it has one million-plus more acres than Banff. Jasper is also host to a robust population of wildlife including black and grizzly bears, elk and moose, and big horn sheep and Rocky Mountain goats, making it a popular tourist destination for travelers to explore.

Organ Pipe National Monument  Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

3. Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, Arizona

Right along the U.S.-Mexico border, Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument has the kind of scenery you’d expect when you picture the desert. The monument’s tall, skinny namesake cacti abound in every direction. Instead of growing with one massive trunk like the saguaro, the many branches of the organ pipe rise from a base at the ground. Take a ride down Ajo Mountain Drive for great views of the forests of Saguaro.

>> Get more tips for visiting Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument

Tulip fields © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

4. Skagit Valley Tulip Fields, Washington

These farmlands are must-sees in the spring—namely in April which is the absolute best time to take a trip to this Pacific Northwest locale. That’s when all the bright, vibrant tulips are in full bloom and when you can enjoy the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival. If you visit at the right time you’ll get to see not just tulips in all sorts of pretty, warm colors but also countless other flowers that add to the gorgeousness of the fields. During the festival, you can taste wine, enjoy strolling through gardens, sample barbecues, and feast your eyes on art exhibits.

Caverns of Senora  Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

5. The Caverns of Senora

The Cavern is over seven and a half miles long but only two miles of trails are developed for tours. Five levels of the cave vary in depth from 20 feet to 180 feet below the surface. The Cavern is known for its stunning array of calcite crystal formations, extremely delicate formations, and the abundance and variety of formations. You’ll find helictites, soda straws stalactites, speleothems, stalagmites, and cave bacon. The cave is a constant 71 degrees with 98 percent humidity which makes it feel about 85 degrees.

>> Get more tips for visiting The Caverns of Sonora

Joshua Tree National Park  Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

6. Joshua Tree National Park, California

Step into Joshua Tree National Park and you won’t just feel like you’re in another country, you’ll feel as if you’re walking onto another planet. Filled with bizarrely-shaped plants indigenous to the region like the Joshua tree as well as ginormous boulders that rise hundreds of feet into the sky, the landscape has the appearance of a scene from a sci-fi flick. Joshua Tree National Park is a photographer’s, hiker’s, and climber’s dream while the village of Joshua Tree has a unique charm as an artists’ enclave home to an eclectic mix of nature lovers, artists, and hipsters.

>> Get more tips for visiting Joshua Tree National Park

Bernheim Forest  Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

7. Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest, Kentucky

Are you looking to connect with nature? Bernheim is the place to do it. At 15,625 acres, Bernheim boasts the largest protected natural area in Kentucky. Bernheim contains a 600-acre arboretum with over 8,000 unique varieties of trees. Take a scenic drive through the forest on paved roads or bicycle around the Arboretum. Over 40 miles of trails weave their way through the forest at Bernheim.

>> Get more tips for visiting Bernheim Forest

Glen Canyon National Recreation Area  Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

8. Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, Arizona and Utah

Home to Lake Powell, The Glen Canyon National Recreation Area is a stunning region of blue water with a desert landscape and dramatic stone walls. One of the largest manmade lakes in the United States, this area is known for both land-based and water-based recreational activities. You can enjoy a summer’s day with perfect weather, cool water, amazing scenery, and endless sunshine. This is the perfect place to escape to and rent a houseboat, stay at a campground, or enjoy lodging and hop aboard a guided expedition.

>> Get more tips for visiting Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

Banff National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

9. Canadian Rockies

One of the most spectacular and beautiful places you will find anywhere, the Canadian Rockies are huge, pristine wilderness with local gems such as Banff, Jasper, Kootenay, Glacier, and Yoho National Parks. All five parks combined with three British Columbia provincial parks have been name as a single UNESCO World Heritage site for the unique mountainscapes found here. Not to mention the world-famous lakes in the region. You’ll have plenty to explore with Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, Peyto Lake, and Maligne Lake, all stunning and fed by the glaciers in the area.

>> Get more tips for visiting the Canadian Rockies

Cumberland Island National Seashore  Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

10. Cumberland Island National Seashore, Georgia

Cumberland Island National Seashore includes one of the largest undeveloped barrier islands in the world. The park is home to a herd of feral, free-ranging horses. Most visitors come to Cumberland for the natural glories, serenity, and fascinating history. Built by the Carnegies, the ruins of the opulent 59-room, Queen Anne-style Dungeness are a must-see for visitors.

>> Get more tips for visiting Cumberland Island National Seashore

Botany Bay  Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

11. Botany Bay Plantation Heritage Preserve, South Carolina

If you want to see the South Carolina coast the way the original settlers did, take a step back in time at Botany Bay Plantation Heritage Preserve on Edisto Island. The 4,600-acre preserve includes three miles of undeveloped beachfront. This wildlife management area exhibits many characteristics common to sea islands along the southeast coast: pine-hardwood forests, agricultural fields, coastal wetlands, and a barrier island with a beachfront. Only this tract has been left undisturbed.

>> Get more tips for visiting Botany Bay

Mesa Verde National Park  Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

12. Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado

Located in southwestern Colorado, Mesa Verde National Park is one of the most unique national parks in the United States. This park preserves the ancient Puebloan cliff dwellings and archeological sites that are hundreds of years old. Short hikes, scenic drives, and viewpoints make the to-do list but the best way to experience this park is to get up close to the cliff dwellings on a tour.

>> Get more tips for visiting Mesa Verde National Park

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park  Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

13. Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, California

Spanning more than 600,000 acres, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is California’s largest state park and one of the best places for camping. A diverse desert landscape the park encompasses 12 wilderness areas rich with flora and fauna. Enjoy incredible hikes, crimson sunsets, and starlit nights, and view metal dragons, dinosaurs, and giant grasshoppers.

>> Get more tips for visiting Anza-Borrego State Park

Shenandoah National Park  Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

14. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

Shenandoah National Park preserves a section of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Virginia. Skyline Drive is the main thoroughfare through the park, a road that twists and turns for 105 miles from north to south. For those who want to explore the park beyond Skyline Drive, 500 miles of hiking trails traverse the park.

 >> Get more tips for visiting Shenandoah National Park

Enchanted Rock in Texas Hill Country  Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

15. Texas Hill Country, Texas

The Texas Hill Country boasts scenic landscapes replete with rolling hills, grasslands, rivers, lakes, charming small towns, and fields covered in numerous varieties of wildflowers such as bluebonnets, buttercups, and Indian paintbrushes. There are also over 50 wineries to explore, each with its own terroir and unique approach to winemaking.

 >> Get more tips for visiting the Texas Hill Country

Okanagan Valley  Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

16. Okanagan Valley, British Columbia

The Okanagan is characterized by a dry, sunny climate, beautiful landscapes, and a series of lakes. The region receives less than 12 inches of rain and two inches of snow annually and is the hottest and driest place in Canada. On the horizon are mountains of green foliage, aqua-blue lakes, and, in the distance, rolling vineyards as far as the eye can see. With its mild, dry climate, the region is also popular with golfers, hikers, and bikers.

>> Get more tips for visiting the Okanagan Valley

Painted Churches  Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

17. Painted Churches of Fayette County, Texas

As German and Czech immigrants arrived in Central Texas, they established a cluster of small communities that had one thing in common: their painted churches. The term painted comes from the elaborate faux-finished interiors. Gold-leafed, stone, and polished marble columns and ceilings are (upon closer examination) finely-fitted woodwork.

The terrain between the churches is winding and rolling and contains some of the best country views in the state. The Painted Churches are a sight to be seen. Go inside a plain white steeple church and you will find a European-styled painted church of high gothic windows, tall spires, elaborately painted interiors with brilliant colors, and friezes created by the German and Czech settlers in America.

>> Get more tips for visiting the Painted Churches

Columbia Icefield  Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

18. Icefields Parkway, Alberta

Linking Lake Louise with Jasper is one of the most beautiful journeys on the planet—the Icefields Parkway (Highway 93). Rated as one of the top drives in the world by Condé Nast Traveler, the Icefield Parkway is a 145-mile stretch of highway winding along the Continental Divide through soaring rocky mountain peaks, icefields, and vast sweeping valleys.

The Icefields Parkway is dotted with more than 100 ancient glaciers, cascading waterfalls, dramatic rock spires, and emerald lakes set in huge valleys of thick pine and larch forests. Glacier Sky Walk is a unique experience that puts you on a glass-floored observation platform 280 feet over the Sunwapta Valley.

Moody Mansion, Galveston © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

19. Galveston, Texas

With a year-round warm climate, a trip to the beach is almost a guaranteed fun time. Many beachgoers head to Galveston virtually any time of the year but the summer months are the most enjoyable bringing more visitors than any other time. Galveston Island is home to Moody Gardens as well as Schlitterbahn Galveston Island Waterpark and the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier amusement park. Galveston also offers numerous unique museums including The Bryan Museum, Texas Seaport Museum, Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig & Museum, and Galveston Railroad Museum.

>> Get more tips for visiting Galveston

Mount Robson Provincial Park Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

20. Mount Robson Provincial Park, British Columbia

Mount Robson Provincial Park, the second oldest park in British Columbia’s park system is truly one of Canada’s crown jewels. The mountain for which the park is named guards the park’s western entrance. At 12,972 feet, Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies, towers over the lesser surrounding peaks; this is one of the finest views in the Rocky Mountains. Just as the early trappers, hunters, and explorers felt in awe at the mountain’s magnificence, travelers today experience the same feelings.

Museum of Appalachia  Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

21. Museum of Appalachia, Clinton, Tennessee

The Museum of Appalachia is a living history museum, a unique collection of historic pioneer buildings and artifacts assembled for over a half-century. The Museum portrays an authentic mountain farm and pioneer village with some three dozen historic log structures, several exhibit buildings filled with thousands of authentic Appalachian artifacts, multiple gardens, and free-range farm animals, all set in a picturesque venue and surrounded by split-rail fences. Strolling through the village, it’s easy to imagine you’re living in Appalachia of yesteryear cutting firewood, tending livestock, mending a quilt, or simply rocking on the porch, enjoying the glorious views.

>> Get more tips for visiting Museum of Appalachia

Natural Bridges National Monument  Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

22. Natural Bridges National Monument, Utah

Formed by the power of water in a place where water is all but absent, three stone bridges in the Utah desert have been protected as a national monument since 1908. Since natural bridges are formed by running water, they are much rarer than arches which result from a variety of other erosion forces. A nine-mile one-way loop drive connects pull-outs and overlooks with views of the three huge multi-colored natural bridges.

>> Get more tips for visiting Natural Bridges National Monument

La Connor  Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

23. La Conner, Washington

La Conner is one of those places that people love to visit—time and time again. The reasons are many but one that stands out is that there are so many things to do in and around La Conner. A waterfront village in northwestern Washington, La Conner is nestled beside the Swinomish Channel near the mouth of the Skagit River. La Conner is a unique combination of a fishing village, an artists’ colony, eclectic shops, historic buildings, and a tourist destination. Relax by the water, enjoy fine restaurants, and browse through unique shops and art galleries.

>> Get more tips for visiting La Conner

Elk Island National Park  Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

24. Elk Island National Park, Alberta

Elk Island National Park played an important part in the conservation of the plains bison. This island of conservation is 30 miles east of Edmonton along the Yellowhead Highway which goes through the park. Watch for wood bison to the south and plains bison to the north.

Explore the park by foot, bike, or car, and be on the lookout for wildlife. Bison and other mammals are most active at dawn and dusk when females travel with their young. Beyond bison be ready to glimpse deer, elk, coyotes, and the countless birds that call Elk Island National Park home. Many animals shelter in the trees during the warmest parts of the day.

Capitol Reef National Park Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

25. Capitol Reef National Park, Utah

With beautiful scenic drives, thrilling hikes, historical sites, backcountry roads, slot canyons, and unique desert landscapes, Capitol Reef National Park is an unexpectedly amazing national park to visit. If you love the idea of leaving the crowds behind and exploring a vast, remote area, you have several options. Cathedral Valley with its sandstone monoliths and sweeping desert vistas is a beautiful, unique way to spend one day in Capitol Reef. Or you can Loop the Fold, another remote driving day along the waterpocket fold. There are also slot canyons to explore, low-traffic hiking trails in remote areas of the park, and some of the most dramatic landscapes in Utah which you can see right from your car.

>> Get more tips for visiting Capitol Reef National Park

Worth Pondering…

“Where are we going, man?”

“I don’t know, but we gotta go.”

—Jack Kerouac, in On the Road

Ascend to the Top of the World in Banff National Park

Dizzying views in the Canadian Rocky Mountains

It’s easy to see why Banff National Park was once advertised as 50 Switzerlands in one. The mountain range—comprising bizarrely jagged peaks many exceeding 12,000 feet—goes on for thousands of miles. And so many valleys between are filled with pools of water—each a different shade of glowing, ethereal teal.

Banff is renowned for skiing in winter though some heights have enough snow to backcountry ski all year long, even in July while the valleys offer perfectly crisp hikes in spring and fall. Come summer, the balmy 70-degree weather keeps you from sweating too much as you ascend peaks or enjoy sparkling pools in the valleys.

Banff National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Visiting here is a real two-for-one deal since immediately next to Banff is Jasper National Park located in such proximity that it’s difficult to tell where one park ends and the other begins. Plus, if you somehow tire of gondolas soaring above a sea of trees, incredibly scenic drives, glacier hikes, tasteful lodge towns, or tea houses serving steaming treats and drinks directly on the trail, the nearby cities of Edmonton and Calgary offer innovative restaurants, bars, and art. No matter how much time you have, here’s what to cram into your trip to Banff.

Start and end in a buzzing city

To get to Banff, drive your car or RV from Calgary to the national park. But, instead of doubling back to the Stampede City an ideal option would be to continue onward through the park and onto Jasper and onto Edmonton to hit up both cities. Both are newer cities with sky-scraper-filled downtowns; Calgary is on the more polished side while Edmonton feels artsy and green.

Edmonton City Hall © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

In Edmonton, you’ll notice a chain of parks running through the center of the city thanks to protected land on both sides of the North Saskatchewan River. Locals bike, walk, or scooter around the 40 miles of pathways weaving through pine trees and descending down to glacier-blue water. You’ll find art scattered through the park and the city some of which is created by indigenous artists and celebrates Métis First Nations or the Cree language. Whether you hike, kayak, or sign on for a dinner or party on a river boat on the North Saskatchewan, no worries about trekking all the way back uphill at the end of the day—you can ride the funicular instead.

Whyte Avenue is the street to check out while you’re in town with its restaurants, indie theater, beer gardens, farmer’s markets, and street art. Here you’ll find a bar in an old train station, board game cafes, arcade bars, and restaurants dishing ramen, ice cream, vegan eats, curries, Cajun food, and more.

Rogers Place in the Ice District © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Across town there’s some newer development in the ICE District, a 25-acre mixed-use development project located in the heart of downtown Edmonton. ICE District is a modern, urban destination and gathering space and ranks as the largest mixed-use sports and entertainment district in Canada and the 2nd largest in North America after Hudson Yards in New York. ICE District is home to a mix of premium office space, high-end residences, a luxury hotel, boutique shops and restaurants, all anchored by Rogers Place, a state-of-the-art sports and entertainment facility that is home to the NHL’s Edmonton Oilers.

The other option is Calgary. Also known as Cowtown to the rest of Canada, this cosmopolitan city is rooted in its wild Western heritage. It’s also Canada’s energy centre—both economically and culturally. You’ll never find yourself bored in Calgary.

Calgary’s downtown has everything you’d expect from a big city: shopping, fine dining, museums and endless entertainment options. The surrounding neighbourhoods each have a unique identity, with boutiques, breweries and a bevy of public art. Two large rivers wind throughout it all, forever nourishing its parks and people.

You’ll also find gentle rafting and kayaking on the Bow River, a haunted ghost tour around the city, and chuck wagon races at the Calgary Stampede (July 7-16, 2023) where old wooden food carts go neck and neck. Check out the cool neighborhood of Kensington for nightlife.

Located in the heart of the city, the Calgary Tower offers a spectacular 360-degree view. Enjoy a one-of-a-kind view of Calgary on the incredible glass floor and see the bustling streets below. An informative and inspiring multi-media tour is available for free and accessible from your mobile device.

Icefields Parkway © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Take in the drive

Getting anywhere in or around Banff and Jasper means you’re doing a scenic drive so I won’t even bother recommending specific routes—though you’ll probably take the Icefields Parkway (Highway 93) and the Trans Canada Highway.

In any case, just follow your maps app and be ready to look up a lot. Even the driver will be wowed—while still focusing intently on the road and keeping hands on the wheel at exactly the 10 and 2 o’clock positions, of course. Don’t be surprised if a massive elk stands majestically by the road allowing puny humans to snap their little photos. And yes, there are bears here, but whether you see them from a car or on the trail they’re not particularly interested in humans but you’ll still need to use caution.

Banff National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Hit up tea houses and gondolas while hiking in Banff

Whenever you decide to stop the car, it’s time for open-air adventure. The most popular destination for hikers and non-hikers alike is Lake Louise, or Ho-Run-Num-Nay, meaning the lake of little fish. This is where you’ll find the most Instagram posts as well as kayak trips on the turquoise water. One excellent hike in this area is the Plain of Six Glaciers Trail which is a moderate 6-mile roundtrip walk from Lake Louise up about 1,000 feet to a lovely tea house serving cakes, warm entrees, hot cocoa, and—of course—tea. The hike to Lake Agnes Tea House also starts from Lake Louise and is easier to reach at only 4.7 miles roundtrip though the less crowded Plain of Six Glaciers Tea House is more rustic and rewarding.

Banff National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Just across from Ho-Run-Num-Nay is the Lake Louise Summer Gondola that runs through early October. From the top dropoff point you can hike one of the many trails on the summit or dine at the ski lodge that’s open year round.

For an easy but stunning hike in Banff, try Johnston Canyon Lower Falls which is a flat 1-mile walk on boardwalks suspended over a river in a narrow canyon. You’ll feel like you’re levitating above the river until you get to a small cave and waterfall at the end where teal blue water gushes into shimmering pools. You can continue onwards from there to Upper Falls for higher vistas. And close to town, Stoney Squaw is another short 2-mile hike that’s steeper and more secluded with few people and many tree roots along the trail. You’ll mostly be surrounded by pines the entire time except for some quick views at the top so this is one for the forest bathers out there.

Columbia Icefield © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Climb up glaciers and into hot springs in Jasper

Walking on top of a glacier is a rare experience—and one that’s getting even rarer since many of them are melting away. Going on a trek with a responsible tourism group allows visitors the chance of a lifetime. The glaciers from the Columbia Icefield in Jasper National Park are shrinking but they’re still hypnotic to gaze upon as they sit like eerie, silent giants. 

On this incredible experience you’ll travel on a massive Ice Explorer all-terrain vehicle to the Athabasca Glacier, a 10,000-year-old sheet of ice where you can walk on, feel, and drink from the glacier.

Whether or not you opt to walk on the icefield—for which a guide is required, lest you fall into one of the deep cracks—you can also hike a short trail that takes you to the edge of the glacier. The hikes start at the Glacier View Lodge which is an elegant place to stay and see the bluish ice from the hotel’s huge floor-to-ceiling windows. From here, you can also purchase tickets for the Skywalk where visitors walk out onto a glass platform suspended 900 feet above the rugged glacial landscape.

Glacial Skywal© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

If even the thought of a glacier hike is chilling, there’s also plenty of heat to be had in Jasper. The Sulphur Skyline Trail is a jaw-dropping hike that ends in hot springs. About 5 miles roundtrip and with around a 2,000-foot elevation gain this hike climbs gradually up inclines and switchbacks until you’re suddenly beholding the world from its crown. You’ll want to be extra careful with your footing at the very top since it’s somewhat gravely. Or just skip the whole thing and sit in the natural Miette Hot Springs at the foot of the trail surrounded by all the peaks you can admire regardless of whether you decide to climb them.

The Bald Hills trail is another iconic hike in Jasper with huge views at the top. The majority of the 8-mile route goes through forests, either steeply to the left or on an easier fire road to the right until emerging for the ridgeline view. The trail starts and stops by Maligne Lake where you can opt to go on a boat cruise.

Elk grazing in Jasper Townsite © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Relax each evening in a lodge town

A couple of towns located within the national parks exemplify the best version of lodge towns. While there are certainly many tourists, the villages don’t feel plasticky; there’s an authenticity to the wood and fireplaces that perhaps comes with weathering many long winters. The main towns are eponymously named Banff and Jasper. You’ll find numerous shops and restaurants all within wooden mountain houses. Tour operators pick guests up directly from the hotels in town and make it easy to get around the national park without having to drive or fight for parking at trailheads.

If you get back to town and still have the stamina to take in more mountain views, bike trails are the best way to explore the immediate area—which can be done via e-bike for those who want to see the sights but whose legs have called it quits. At Snowtips-Bactrax in Banff, workers will outfit you with either a mountain or electric bike and offer maps and suggestions of which routes to take from the center of town depending on how long you want to ride. One nearby option with a glorious vista is Lake Minnewanka Loop which goes up and down some hills in a 15-mile route along protected bike lanes and a low-traffic road.

Banff National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

While Jasper has plenty to offer as well, Banff is the perfect home base to return to after a long day of excursions. The Three Bears Brewery is a highlight where the food is as inventive as the beer. Order the lamb rib with pomegranate glaze and a hint of chili oil which is an outrageous dish you’ll keep dreaming about on the trails. And though the beer menu is extensive with hoppy trail brews and local pine pilsners, the restaurant’s signature drinks are infused beers. Using teas like rooibos and fruit such as blueberries or peaches, brewers experiment with flavors that come out fresh from the on-site infusion chamber. Look for fruity combos in warmer months and a peppermint stout as the seasons get colder.

For a final dose of relaxation, one highly suggested activity is to soak in a steam room full of eucalyptus. Steam rooms might seem like they’re the same all over the world but the humble mini-spa that’s free (I repeat, free) for guests of Peaks Hotel & Suites must have a rejuvenating secret beyond just a lovely smell.

RVs in the national parks © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

The new hotel in Banff is beautifully designed with rustic-chic vibes, small private balconies, and free hot cocoa by the gas fireplace—but their indoor pool and plunge pools are transformative after mountain climbing. The potent eucalyptus in all that steam seems to penetrate both your muscles and lungs for a deep hiking recovery that’ll have you ready to get back at it in no time.

Worth Pondering…

The mountains are calling and I must go.

—John Muir

Banff National Park: Know Before You Go

The Swiss Alps have nothing on the stunning Canadian Rockies

Head north for epic views.

It’s easy to see why Banff National Park was once advertised as 50 Switzerlands in one. Each massive mountain piercing the sky in Banff is a reason to stare, each with its unique shape. And so many valleys between are filled with pools of water—each a different shade of ethereal glow—or a glacier slipping slowly from an icefield.

Banff National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Sure, Banff is renowned for skiing come winter (though some heights have enough snow to backcountry ski all year long, even in July), but the valleys are pleasantly warm throughout summer and offer pleasantly crisp hikes in fall. The Canadian national park is covered in larch conifers, the only evergreen to change colors and shed its needles in fall.

The area has enough going on to keep you busy for days or even weeks. Immediately north of Banff, you’ll find Jasper National Park, located in such proximity that it’s difficult to tell where one park ends and the other begins, a real two-for-one deal. Plus, if you somehow tire of gondolas soaring above a sea of trees, incredibly scenic drives, glacier hikes, and Banff’s tasteful lodge towns, the nearby cities of Edmonton and Calgary offer innovative restaurants, bars, and art. No matter how much time you have, here’s what to cram into your trip to Banff.

Edmonton © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Start and end in a buzzing city

To get to Banff, you can drive out of either Edmonton or Calgary to the national park. Both are newer cities with sky-scraper-filled downtowns; Edmonton feels artsy and green while Calgary is a little more polished.

In Edmonton, look for the enormous parks system running through the center of the city, thanks to protected land on both sides of the North Saskatchewan River. Locals bike, walk, or scooter around the 40 miles of pathways weaving through the trees and descending to blue water. Whether you hike, kayak, or sign on for a dinner or party on a river boat in North Saskatchewan, no worries about trekking back uphill at the end of the day—you can ride the funicular instead.

Rogers Place, home of the Edmonton Oilers © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Whyte Avenue is the street to check out while you’re in town with its restaurants, indie theater, beer gardens, farmer’s markets, and street art. Here you’ll find a bar in an old train station, board game cafes, arcade bars, and restaurants dishing ramen, ice cream, vegan eats, curries, Cajun food, and more.

The other option is Calgary. You’ll also find gentle rafting and kayaking on the Bow River, a haunted ghost tour around the city, and chuck wagon races at the Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth, the world-famous Calgary Stampede (July 7-13, 2023 where old wooden food carts go neck and neck.

Icefields Parkway © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Take in the drive

Getting anywhere in or around Banff and Jasper means you’re doing a scenic drive so I won’t recommend specific routes—though you’ll probably take the Icefields Parkway (Highway 93) and the Trans Canada Highway (Highway 1). In any case, just follow your maps app and be ready to look up a lot. Even the driver will be wowed—while still focusing intently on the road and keeping hands on the wheel at exactly the 10 and 2 o’clock positions, of course.

Don’t be surprised if a massive elk stands majestically by the road allowing puny humans to snap their little photos. And yes, there are bears here but whether you see them from a car or on the trail they’re not particularly interested in humans.

Banff National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Hit up tea houses and gondolas while hiking in Banff

Whenever you decide to stop the car, it’s time for an open-air adventure. The most popular destination for hikers and non-hikers alike is Lake Louise, or Ho-Run-Num-Nay, meaning the lake of little fish. This is where you’ll find the most Instagram posts as well as kayak trips on the turquoise water.

One excellent hike in this area is the Plain of Six Glaciers Trail which is a moderate 6-mile roundtrip hike from Lake Louise up about 1,000 feet to a lovely tea house serving cakes, warm entrees, hot cocoa, and—of course—tea. The hike to Lake Agnes Tea House also starts from Lake Louise and is easier to reach at only 4.7 miles roundtrip.

If you don’t want to pack your trekking poles and lunch or stress about where to find the best wildlife spotting, stopping points, and photo opportunities, companies like Discover Banff Tours offer guided hikes to take all the worry out of the outdoors.

Banff National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Just across from Ho-Run-Num-Nay is the Lake Louise Gondola that runs through early October. From the top dropoff point you can hike one of the many trails on the summit or dine at the ski lodge that’s open year round.

For an easy but stunning hike in Banff, try Johnson Canyon Lower Falls which is a flat 1-mile walk on boardwalks suspended over a river in a narrow canyon. You’ll feel like you’re levitating above the river until you get to a small cave and waterfall at the end where teal blue water gushes into shimmering pools. You can continue onwards from there to Upper Falls for higher vistas.

And close to town, Stoney Squaw is another short 2-mile hike that’s steeper and more secluded with few people and many tree roots along the trail. You’ll mostly be surrounded by pines the entire time except for some quick views at the top so this is one for the forest bathers out there.

Columbia Icefield © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Climb up glaciers and into hot springs in Jasper

Walking on top of a glacier is a rare experience—and one that’s getting even rarer since many of them are melting away. Going on a trek with a responsible tourism group allows visitors the chance of a lifetime. The glaciers from the Columbia Icefield in Jasper National Park are shrinking but they’re still hypnotic to gaze upon as they sit like eerie, silent giants.

Whether or not you opt to walk on the icefield—for which a guide is required lest you fall into one of the deep cracks—you can also hike a short trail that takes you to the edge of the glacier. The hikes start at the Glacier View Lodge which is an elegant place to stay and see the bluish ice from the hotel’s huge floor-to-ceiling windows. From here, you can also purchase tickets for the Skywalk where visitors walk out onto a glass platform suspended 900 feet above the rugged glacial landscape.

Glacial Skywalk © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

If even the thought of a glacier hike is chilling there’s also plenty of heat to be had in Jasper. The Sulphur Skyline Trail is a stunning hike that ends in hot springs. About 5 miles roundtrip and with around a 2,000-foot elevation gain this hike climbs gradually up inclines and switchbacks until you’re suddenly beholding the world from its crown. You’ll want to be extra careful with your footing at the very top since it’s somewhat gravely.

Or just skip the whole thing and sit in the natural Miette Hot Springs at the foot of the trail, surrounded by all the peaks you can admire regardless of whether you decide to climb them. At time of writing Miette Hot Springs was closed due to a road washout resulting in the closure of Miette Road. Check with Parks Canada for an update on the reopening of Miette Road.

The Bald Hills trail is another iconic hike in Jasper with huge views at the top. The majority of the 8-mile route goes through forests, either steeply to the left or on an easier fire road to the right until emerging for the ridgeline view. The trail starts and stops by Maligne Lake where you can opt to go on a boat cruise.

Jasper Townsite © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Relax each evening in a lodge town

A couple of towns located within the national parks exemplify the best version of lodge towns. While there are certainly many tourists, the villages don’t feel overdone; there’s an authenticity to the buildings that perhaps comes with weathering many long winters. The main towns are Banff and Jasper. You’ll find numerous shops and restaurants all within wooden mountain houses. Tour operators pick guests up directly from the hotels in town and make it easy to get around the national park without having to drive or fight for parking at trailheads.

Elk © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

If you get back to town and still have the stamina to take in more mountain views, bike trails are the best way to explore the immediate area—which can be done via e-bike for those who want to see the sights but whose legs have called it quits. One nearby option with a glorious vista is Lake Minnewanka Loop which goes up and down some hills in a 15-mile route along protected bike lanes and a low-traffic road.

Rocky mountain sheep © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

While Jasper has plenty to offer as well, Banff is the perfect home base to return to after a long day of excursions. Three Bears Brewery is a highlight where the food is as inventive as the beer. Whatever you do, order the lamb rib with pomegranate glaze and a hint of chili oil, which is an outrageous dish you’ll keep dreaming about on the trails. And though the beer menu is extensive, with hoppy trail brews and local pine pilsners, the restaurant’s signature drinks are infused beers. Using teas like rooibos and fruit such as blueberries or peaches, brewers experiment with flavors that come out fresh from the on-site infusion chamber. Look out for a peppermint stout as the seasons get colder.

Worth Pondering…

The mountains are calling and I must go.

—John Muir

10 Must-See Spots in Jasper National Park

What to do in Jasper National Park in summer

When it comes to the Canadian Rockies, Jasper National Park has it all. From the soaring limestone walls of Maligne Canyon to the breathtaking views of Athabasca Falls and crystal clear Pyramid Lake, Jasper National Park is filled with sensational activities for the hiker, kayaker, and all-around outdoors enjoyer could ever want. But with over 745 miles of natural hiking trails to explore, it can be hard to know where to start.

That’s why I put together this list of must-experience spots, the kinds of places you have to visit to say you’ve truly seen Jasper. So tour the world’s most accessible glacier, get front-row seats to a diverse range of wildlife including elk, bears, bighorn sheep, and rocky mountain goats, and dive into massive mountain peaks, vast valleys, and forests filled with extraordinary evergreens.

Columbia Icefields © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

1. Maligne Canyon

Just a 10-minute drive from the town of Jasper, Maligne Canyon has one of the most impressive ravines in the Canadian Rockies. Sheer limestone walls drop to depths of over 150 feet making it the deepest canyon in Jasper National Park and one that’s magnificent to visit any time of year.

Maligne Canyon is a beautiful place to hike in the summer months. This popular Jasper attraction has six bridges built throughout different points of the canyon. If you’re looking for a simple walk, venture over to the First and Second bridges. If you want an extended hike, continue to the Sixth Bridge for more great views of the waterfalls and rapids. You’ll also be able to grab a bite at the Maligne Canyon Wilderness Kitchen before or after your hike.

Tip: Get there early to grab a parking spot as it fills quickly in the summer. In the winter, Maligne Canyon is nothing short of magical. Wander through the canyon to marvel at the frozen waterfalls, ice caves, and surreal ice formations. You can explore the area on your own or take a guided tour to learn more about the canyon. Want even more thrill? Try ice climbing with a certified mountain guide!

Rocky mountain goat © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

2. Athabasca Falls

While the falls are only around 75 feet high, it’s their power that makes Athabasca Falls rather astonishing. Located about 20 miles south of Jasper, Athabasca Falls offers exquisite views and water that changes color every season.

Parking is close to the falls and the hike itself is quite easy. Once there, walk along the interpretive trail to admire the falls from various vantage points. Make sure to cross the bridge and head down the stairs to the bottom of the falls for close-ups of the canyon. Caused by earlier erosion, it continues to be whittled away a bit each year from the flowing water.

Do yourself a favor and stay on the right side of the viewing fence. The mist makes the stones slippery and people have drowned trying to get the perfect photo.

Tip: If you’d like to see Athabasca Falls from a different perspective, consider a rafting tour along the Athabasca River. Beginner tours offer just enough rapids to give you a bit of a thrill, all while your guides share information about the surrounding area.

Jasper townsite © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

3. Maligne Lake

Spanning over 13 miles in length, Maligne Lake is the largest natural lake in the Rockies and the second-largest glacially-fed lake in the world. Walk along the Mary Schaffer loop to enjoy views of vivid turquoise waters and gorgeous horizons.

This area is also great for getting on the water and offers canoe, kayak, and rowboat rentals as well as guided fishing tours. For a truly incredible experience, take a Maligne Lake boat cruise to Spirit Island, an amazing spot from which to see the stars, as Jasper is the world’s second-largest dark sky reserve. On the cruise, you’ll learn about the history of the lake and get some stunning views of the peaks, glaciers, and wildlife around the lake. I enjoyed the boat tour one summer and left convinced it might be the most beautiful spot on the planet.

Tip: Maligne Lake is about 30 miles from downtown Jasper, so make sure to schedule in driving time when planning your day.

Elk © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

4. Jasper Skytram

As Canada’s longest and highest guided aerial tramway, the Jasper SkyTram is a ride unlike any other. This seven-minute ride takes you nearly 7,500 feet up Whistler Mountain giving you 360-degree views of Jasper, its mountain ranges, and the many waterways that make up the park.

Once you’ve arrived at the top, you can hike up to the summit for more stellar sights of Jasper or enjoy the vistas while grabbing a bite at the full-service Summit Restaurant. Either way, you’re in for a real treat.

Pyramid Lake © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

5. Pyramid Lake

Located at the foot of Pyramid Mountain, Pyramid Lake is one of the most picturesque places to see in Jasper. This kidney-shaped lake is the perfect spot to relax on the beach or picnic at the log frame pavilion.

Walk along the lakeshore trail to a wooden bridge to get to a tiny island in the middle of the lake. Once there, the peaceful mountains set behind the beauty of the lake will likely take your breath away and make for some lovely photos.

Rocky mountain sheep © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

7. Mount Edith Cavell

Mount Edith Cavell is one of Jasper’s most famous mountains. And with its signature diagonal rock patterns, renowned alpine wildflower trails, and fascinating history, it’s no wonder why.

A long, winding drive off Highway 93A leads visitors to a newly expanded parking area where a short, paved path leads to jaw-dropping views of the Angel Glacier, the mint-green lake below, and the iconic, sparkling peak above. For extra adventure, hikers can opt for a longer, non-paved walk up into an alpine meadow with even more panoramic views (note that dogs aren’t permitted on the upper trail).

Edith Cavell saved the lives of hundreds of soldiers during World War I before she was executed by a German firing squad. Before the mountain got its current name, it was called White Ghost by Native Americans, la Montagne de la Grande Traverse by French mountaineers, and Mount Fitzhugh until the war.

Jasper Park Lodge © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

8. Sunwapta Falls

Meaning turbulent river in Nakoda, Sunwapta Falls is located on the Icefields Parkway. This pair of waterfalls were created by hanging valleys that divide them into the Upper and Lower Falls.

The upper falls are close to the road making them readily accessible. Hike along the trail until you reach the lower falls and make sure to take the footbridge so you can observe the river in an uproar before calming down as it streams into the wider part of the gorge.

The Sunwapta white water rafting river tour is sure to get your blood pumping. Unlike the Athabasca tours, this expedition includes Class 3 rapids and is the most challenging white water in Jasper National Park. During the ride, you’ll hit large waves while taking in the spectacular scenery.

Elk © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

9. Miette Hot Springs

Miette Hot Springs features the hottest hot springs in the Canadian Rockies. The natural hot springs water flows from the mountain at 129 degrees Fahrenheit, the water is then cooled to a comfortable temperature of 104 degrees as it enters the hot springs pool.

After taking a soak, head on over to one of the two colder pools to cool down as you watch the sunset over the mountains. If you feel like walking a bit more, there are a few easy hiking trails near the springs including the site of the old Aqua court. Just make sure to keep your eyes open for bighorn sheep near the parking lot—it’s a favorite hangout spot for them and a great photo op for you.

Note: At time of writing Miette Hot Springs was closed due to a road washout resulting in the closure of Miette Road. Check with Parks Canada for an update on the reopening of Miette Road.

Glacial Skywalk © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

10. Icefields Parkway

Stretching from Jasper to Banff, this 140-mile highway packs the best of the Rockies into one epic road trip. Seriously, driving the parkway might be the most sublime experience you can have. Lake Louise (you know, that photo) is on the itinerary. So are more than 100 ancient glaciers, surreal hikes with unobscured mountain views, and wildlife like deer, moose, elk, bighorn sheep, and mountain goats. Be sure to give yourself at least a full day to travel the parkway one way.

Those afraid of heights should probably skip this one. For the rest of us, the Glacier Skywalk is a horizontal ark that juts out over the edge of the Sunwapta Valley, 918 feet in the air. Built in 2014, the thing has glass floors so if you can handle looking down you’ll get unreal views of the valley below. Get here by stopping along the Icefields Parkway 60 miles south of Jasper. As a heads up, this one closes for winter and most of the spring due to weather.

Worth Pondering…

The mountains are calling and I must go.

—John Muir

10 Amazing Places to RV in July 2023

If you’re dreaming of where to travel to experience it all, here are my picks for the best places to RV in July

Life is either a daring adventure or nothing.

—Helen Keller

Throughout her life as an author and social reformer, Helen Keller motivated people around the world to overcome obstacles even in the most difficult circumstances. Despite losing both her sight and hearing when she was just 19 months old, she went on to become a prolific writer, lecturer, and disability rights advocate, helping found the American Civil Liberties Union and authoring hundreds of essays. Keller wrote these words of encouragement in her 1940 book Let Us Have Faith, calling upon us to take chances in life and trust in the path of discovery.

Glacial Skyway, Icefields Parkway, Alberta © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Welcome to July! While the sun and warmth may be reason enough to celebrate, there’s even more cause for jubilation in America’s neighbor to the north. Today is Canada Day, a holiday marking the Great White North’s independence from Britain. On July 1, 1867, a Dominion was formed through the British North America Act as approved by the British Parliament. It consisted of territories then called Upper and Lower Canada and of New Brunswick and Nova Scotia. The act divided Canada into the provinces of Ontario and Quebec and it included provisions for other colonies and territories to join in the future which made possible the growth of Canada into its present form. The act served as Canada’s constitution until 1982.

By terms of the Canada Act of 1982, the British North America Act was repatriated from the British to the Canadian Parliament and Canada became a fully independent country. At the same time, the name of the national holiday was changed to Canada Day. It is celebrated with parades, displays of the flag, the singing of the national anthem, O Canada, and fireworks. When July 1 falls on a Sunday, the holiday is observed on the following day.

July 1 is now commemorated annually nationwide from Halifax to Vancouver and everywhere in between. In honor of this historic occasion, today’s roundup touches on a variety of cultural histories in Canada and the United States.

Planning an RV trip for a different time of year? Check out my monthly travel recommendations for the best places to travel in May and June. Also check out my recommendations from July 2022 and August 2022.

Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

1. Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park, Alberta

Travel to southern Alberta and you’ll uncover unique landscapes like badlands and hoodoos around lush green river valleys and literal writings on the stone around you. Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park offers the natural scenery of the Milk River and the badlands but also significant cultural history.

The Visitor Centre trail is about 0.3 mile with great hoodoo views and information on upcoming events or tours. The park offers guided experiences throughout summer but you can visit for a hike or picnic any time of year. The Milk River is also a wonderful spot for a paddle.

Mount Rushmore National Memorial © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

2. American History, Alive in Stone

The Mount Rushmore National Memorial is a sculpture carved into the granite face of Mount Rushmore near Keystone. Sculpted by Danish-American Gutzon Borglum and his son, Lincoln Borglum, Mount Rushmore features 60-foot sculptures of the heads of four United States presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. The entire memorial covers 1,278.45 acres and is 5,725 feet above sea level.

South Dakota historian Doane Robinson is credited with conceiving the idea of carving the likenesses of famous people into the Black Hills region of South Dakota in order to promote tourism in the region.  Robinson’s initial idea was to sculpt the Needles; however, Gutzon Borglum rejected the Needles site because of the poor quality of the granite and strong opposition from environmentalists and Native American groups. 

Mount Rushmore National Memorial © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

They settled on the Mount Rushmore location which also has the advantage of facing southeast for maximum sun exposure. Robinson wanted it to feature western heroes like Lewis and Clark, Red Cloud, and Buffalo Bill Cody but Borglum decided the sculpture should have a more national focus and chose the four presidents whose likenesses would be carved into the mountain.

After securing federal funding construction on the memorial began in 1927 and the presidents’ faces were completed between 1934 and 1939. Upon Gutzon Borglum’s death in March 1941 his son Lincoln Borglum took over construction. Although the initial concept called for each president to be depicted from head to waist, lack of funding forced construction to end in late October 1941.

The National Park Service (NPS) took control of the memorial in 1933 while it was still under construction and has managed the memorial to the present day. It attracts nearly three million people annually.

>> Get more tips for visiting Mount Rushmore National Memorial

Jasper National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

3. Best of the Rockies

When it comes to the Canadian Rockies, Jasper National Park has it all. From the soaring limestone walls of Maligne Canyon to the breathtaking views of Athabasca Falls and crystal clear Pyramid Lake, Jasper National Park is filled with sensational activities for the hiker, kayaker, and all-around outdoors enjoyer could ever want.

Located at the foot of Pyramid Mountain, Pyramid Lake is one of the most picturesque places to see in Jasper. This kidney-shaped lake is the perfect spot to relax on the beach or picnic at the log frame pavilion.

Icefields Parkway © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Named in honor of a British nurse who saved the lives of many soldiers during the First World War, Mount Edith Cavell is one of the most recognizable mountaintops in Jasper National Park. Here, you can hike along different trails that lead you to some fantastic panoramic views.

If scenic road trips are your thing, you’re definitely going to want to drive the Icefields Parkway. Named after the Columbia Icefield and the glaciers that reside there, this enchanting stretch of highway passes through Banff National Park and Jasper National Park, and is one of the most remarkable routes in Canada.

So tour the world’s most accessible glacier, get front row seats to a diverse range of wildlife including elk, bears, and bighorn sheep and dive into massive mountain peaks, vast valleys, and forests filled with extraordinary evergreens.

Cumberland Island National Seashore © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

4. Where nature and history meet

If you should know one thing about Cumberland Island, know this: The southernmost barrier island in Georgia with its 18 miles of unspoiled beach and acres of breathtaking natural beauty is more than sand and sea.

People obviously appreciate Cumberland for the peace and quiet, the recreation, the beaches, the camping, and whatnot. But they might not know—unless they’ve either done some reading or taken a ranger-led tour—that there’s history here. This place has been an integral part of practically every era in American history—and pre-American history.

Dungeness ruins, Cumberland Island National Seashore © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Visitors can walk the ruins of the Dungeness mansion and tour the 22,000-square-foot Plum Orchard Mansion, two early 20th-century Carnegie family estates.

Cumberland Island is accessible by ferry only. Reservations for the 45-minute ferry ride are recommended. Board the ferry to Cumberland Island in St. Marys, a historic small town located on the Georgia coast approximately midway between Jacksonville, Florida and Brunswick, Georgia.

>> Get more tips for visiting Cumberland Island National Seashore

Badlands National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

5. Badlands Astronomy Festival

South Dakota is home to Badlands National Park which boasts exciting fossil beds and unique geologic formations. In 2023, the Badlands National Park’s annual Astronomy Festival which is held in partnership with the NASA South Dakota Space Grant Consortium will take place from July 14 through July 16.

Per the National Park Service, “Novices and experts alike will enjoy the spectacular dark night skies of Badlands National Park at public star parties each evening. During the afternoon each day, a variety of family-friendly activities will provide opportunities for visitors to learn about the night sky, the sun, and space exploration.”

Badlands National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Astronomers (and their telescopes) from the Black Hills Astronomical Society, Badlands National Park, Dark Ranger Telescope Tours, and the University of Utah will be on hand throughout the festival to lead guests in for day and night observations.

This free event is made possible through funding and support from the Badlands Natural History Association, NASA South Dakota Space Grant Consortium, Dark Ranger Telescope Tours, Black Hills Astronomical Society, The Journey Museum and Learning Center, International Dark Sky Association, University of Utah, Badlands National Park Conservancy, Minuteman Missile National Historic Site, and Badlands National Park.

>> Get more tips for visiting Badlands National Park

Ocmulgee Mounds National Historic Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

6. Ocmulgee Mounds

It’s been more than two years since West Virginia’s New River Gorge became America’s most recent national park and since then outdoor recreation has continued to soar in popularity. NPS manages more than 400 sites across the United States but less than 20 percent (63) are national parks with the scale and amenities that can support heavy visitation. Currently, 20 states do not have a national park.

There are many benefits to having a national park. They can be a boon for regional tourism and bring federal resources for conserving land that may be vulnerable to development or invasive species.

Ocmulgee Mounds National Historic Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

So where could the next national park be? The U.S. is full of worthy candidates. But national parks are created through congressional legislation and there are many considerations including available infrastructure such as roads and restrooms. Community advocacy can help fuel the effort. With strong local and federal support, Ocmulgee Mounds National Historic Park stands a good chance of becoming America’s 64th national park.

The verdant human-made knolls here are a vivid window into more than 17,000 years of Indigenous habitation. The ancestral homeland of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation, Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park is a leading contender for the next national park slot thanks to a robust community initiative and bipartisan support in Congress. “We know that our ancestors are buried in this land and national park status would establish protections,” says Tracie Reevis, director of advocacy for the Ocmulgee National Park & Preserve Initiative.

Carlsbad Caverns National Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

7. Exploring Carlsbad Caverns

If you’re a fan of geology or just want to see something incredibly unique, it’s hard to top Carlsbad Caverns. The main attraction of this area is the caverns themselves and there are tons of guided tours available. Tour guides point out particularly interesting features, teach you about \the formation and history of the area, and help you stay safe as you explore these naturally formed caves.

The visitor center is also quite impressive. If you’re a fan of documentaries, you’ll love the 16-minute Hidden World video presentation that they play every 30 minutes. This will give you additional information about the caverns so you can more fully enjoy your experience once you’re in them. The center also has exhibits about the native plant and animal species as well as hands-on learning experiences about the geology and history of the area. And of course, don’t forget to stop by the gift shop and buy some fun souvenirs.

>> Get more tips for visiting Carlsbad Caverns National Park

Black’s BBQ, Lockhart © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

8. Travel to Texas for beef brisket 

Travel to Texas and you’ll quickly learn something important about the locals: they know their barbecued meats. So when they line up for four or more hours to get some, it has to be special. That’s the situation at Austin’s Franklin Barbecue six days a week. Through the Franklin’s menu includes pulled pork, ribs, sausage, and more, the main attraction is its smoked beef brisket.

The team here keeps it simple rubbing the meat with a mix of salt and black pepper then cooking it low and slow in oakwood smoke until it’s fall-apart tender and encased in a thin, salty crust. It’s a juicy, smoky Texas classic, judged best-in-class by Texans themselves. 

Texas BBQ © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

You could drive to Lockhart, the state-legislated Barbecue Capital of Texas and be back in the time it takes to get into Franklin’s. But the queue is good fun; you can have a beer and meet some friendly Texans while you wait—and damn, that brisket is good.

Franklin Barbecue can now be shipped to your home anywhere in the United States. Get the best brisket in the known universe without standing in line. 

Learn to smoke meat like a pro! Aaron Franklin teaches you how to fire up flavor-packed Central Texas barbecue including his famous brisket and more mouth-watering smoked meat.

>> Get more tips on the best of Texas BBQ

Meaher State Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

9. Delta Boardwalk at Meaher State Park

The construction is complete on the Gateway to the Delta Boardwalk at Meaher State Park. The park is part of the Alabama Birding Trails Coastal Trail Series making the boardwalk a great place to bird watch.

The Coastal Birding Trail features six birding loops in Baldwin and Mobile counties totaling over 200 miles. Each loop covers different ecological regions representative of the northern Gulf Coast and enables birders to experience different bird species within each region.

Stop number 26 on the Coastal Alabama Birding Trail, Meaher State Park’s 1,327-acres are situated in the wetlands of north Mobile Bay and is a multi-use scenic park with picnic areas, 61 RV camping sites, 10 improved tent sites all with full hook-ups and a shower house with laundry facilities for overnight visitors. A boat ramp and fishing pier will appeal to every fisherman.

Meaher State Park © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Stop at the gate house to pay a nominal $3 entrance fee and then drive to the shell road which runs a quarter mile to the aforementioned boardwalk. Park here (there is a chain across the shell road at this point) and walk on toward the boardwalk that extends out into Mobile Bay.

In winter, watch for Swamp and White-throated Sparrows as you approach the boardwalk. Herons, egrets, and gulls can be seen from the boardwalk and Least Bittern (summer) and Clapper Rail. In winter, American White Pelicans find this a favorite spot as do large rafts of waterfowl.

In summer, this is a great place for terns including Gull-billed Tern. In addition, Least Terns often gather on the railings of the boardwalk offering excellent views. On the south side of the island looking west into the bay there are often White Ibis. Yellow-crowned Night-Heron can be frequently seen near the entrance eating crabs.

>> Get more tips for visiting Meaher State Park

Chile peppers © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

10. New Mexico considers roasted chile as official state aroma

The sweet smell of green chile roasting on an open flame permeates New Mexico every fall wafting from roadside stands and grocery store parking lots and inducing mouth-watering visions of culinary wonders.

Now one state lawmaker says it’s time for everyone to wake up and smell the chile.

Sen. Bill Soules’ visit with fifth grade students in his southern district sparked a conversation about the savory hot peppers and the potential for New Mexico to become the first state in the nation to proudly have an official state aroma, a proposal now being considered by lawmakers.

“It’s very unique to our state,” the Las Cruces Democrat said of roasting chile. “I have tried to think of any other state that has a smell or aroma that is that distinctive statewide, and I can’t think of any.”

Chile peppers © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

For New Mexico, chile is more than a key ingredient for every meal. It’s life. It’s at the center of the official state question—Red or green?—and is one of the state’s official vegetables.

New Mexico produced more than 60 percent of the U.S. chile pepper crop in 2021 and is home to Hatch, an agricultural village known as the Chile Capital of the World for the unique red and green peppers it has turned out for generations. The famous crop also is used in powders, sauces, and salsas that are shipped worldwide.

>> Learn more about New Mexico’s famed chiles

Worth Pondering…

If I had my way, I’d remove January from the calendar altogether and have an extra July instead.

—Roald Dahl