Lake Winnipesaukee - RVing with Rex

Lake Winnipesaukee from the Water: Cruising the Big Lake

A leisurely cruise aboard the M/S Mount Washington offers a different way to experience Lake Winnipesaukee, from Weirs Beach to Wolfeboro and back.

Lake Winnipesaukee lies in New Hampshire’s Lakes Region at the foothills of the White Mountains. It is the state’s largest lake and is often called the Big Lake.

On a pleasant September morning, we boarded the M/S Mount Washington at Weirs Beach for a cruise across Lake Winnipesaukee. The mountains were beginning to show the colors of autumn, the islands dotted the broad expanse of water, and the shoreline slowly unfolded as we cruised toward Wolfeboro.

For a few hours, there was nowhere we needed to be. We simply enjoyed being on the lake.

Lake Winnipesaukee seen from the water, where islands, mountains, and shoreline become part of the journey. © Rex Vogel, *all rights reserved*

A different view of the lake

Seeing Winnipesaukee from the water

I have written about Lake Winnipesaukee before including Smile of the Great Spirit: Lake Winnipesaukee which explored the lake and surrounding Lakes Region. I have also written about Castle in the Clouds where Winnipesaukee stretches below in a sweeping panorama of water, islands, and mountains.

This time, I want to look at the lake from a different perspective—from the deck of the M/S Mount Washington.

There is something different about experiencing a lake from the water. The shoreline no longer defines the journey; it becomes part of the scenery. Islands that seem distant from land take on a different character while the surrounding mountains rise around you rather than simply forming a backdrop.

On a pleasant October afternoon, we cruised from Weirs Beach toward Wolfeboro, surrounded by the changing landscape of New Hampshire’s Big Lake. It was a leisurely few hours but one that offered a fresh way to appreciate a place I had already come to know.

Weirs Beach

Where the journey begins

Our cruise began at Weirs Beach, one of the best-known communities on Lake Winnipesaukee. For generations, it has been a popular summer destination with its waterfront, beach, boardwalk, restaurants, and attractions drawing visitors to the lake.

Weirs Beach is also an important gateway to Winnipesaukee. From here, visitors can enjoy the lake in many ways but few are as leisurely as stepping aboard the M/S Mount Washington for a cruise.

The summer crowds had thinned and the waterfront felt relaxed. We boarded the M/S Mount Washington and settled in for a leisurely day on the lake.

At 230 feet long and spread across three decks, the ship is impressive even at the dock. But once we pulled away, its size mattered less than the view.

The waterfront slowly receded behind us and the lake opened ahead. What had been a destination viewed from land became the landscape through which we were traveling.

For the next several hours, the lake would be our road.

Cruising Lake Winnipesaukee at an unhurried pace, with mountains and islands all around. © Rex Vogel, *all rights reserved*

Aboard the Mount Washington

The lake becomes the road

Once we left Weirs Beach, the pace of the day changed. There was no traffic to watch, no turns to navigate, and no reason to hurry. The M/S Mount Washington moved steadily across the lake while we watched the scenery unfold.

The ship has carried passengers on Lake Winnipesaukee since 1940 and has become an institution on the Big Lake. Its spacious decks make it easy to step outside and enjoy the ever-changing views.

We spent much of our time on deck where the fall air was pleasant and the scenery constantly changed. The shoreline stretched away in both directions, islands appeared ahead and slipped behind us, and mountains formed a familiar backdrop.

There was nothing complicated about the experience. We were simply on the lake, watching New Hampshire pass by at a comfortable pace. Perhaps that was the best part—the opportunity to slow down and let the landscape come to us.

On the lake, the shoreline becomes part of the journey. © Rex Vogel, *all rights reserved*

The lake unfolds

Islands, mountains, and shoreline

Once we were out on the open water, Lake Winnipesaukee seemed to grow larger with every mile. From the deck, islands appeared ahead, wooded shorelines curved into the lake, and mountains rose beyond them.

A cruise offers something that driving around the lake cannot. The perspective is constantly changing. An island gradually reveals its trees and rocky shoreline before slipping behind us while distant mountains shift along the horizon as the ship changes course.

I found myself watching the shoreline as much as the water. Homes and small communities appeared among the trees and hills, seeming quieter and more removed from the everyday world.

The September morning added its own character with autumn beginning to touch the landscape without overwhelming the greens of the forest.

There was time simply to look. No single view lasted very long but there was always another one waiting beyond it.

Wolfeboro

America’s oldest summer resort

After cruising across Lake Winnipesaukee, the M/S Mount Washington brought us to Wolfeboro on the eastern shore.

Wolfeboro has a long connection with summer vacationing. Colonial Governor John Wentworth established a summer estate here in the 1760s, giving the town its claim as America’s oldest summer resort. His estate was actually on nearby Lake Wentworth but his summers in the region helped establish a tradition that continues today.

The town grew into a popular summer destination and its relationship with Lake Winnipesaukee remains central to its character. The waterfront, town docks, shops, restaurants, and tree-lined streets give Wolfeboro a traditional New England resort atmosphere.

We stepped ashore and spent some time exploring before stopping for lunch. It was a pleasant change from the quiet of the lake and gave us a chance to experience Wolfeboro from the shore rather than simply watching it pass from the deck.

After lunch, we returned to the M/S Mount Washington for the journey back across the lake. Our stop added a little history and a taste of lakeside life to an already enjoyable day on Winnipesaukee.

Back aboard the *M/S Mount Washington*, leaving Wolfeboro behind as we begin our journey across the lake. © Rex Vogel, *all rights reserved*

Back on the lake

The journey home

After lunch in Wolfeboro, we returned to the M/S Mount Washington and continued our cruise across Lake Winnipesaukee. The afternoon was still pleasant and there was something satisfying about settling back aboard and watching the shoreline slowly recede.

The return journey offered many of the same views we had seen earlier but they didn’t feel quite the same. From the opposite direction, familiar islands and stretches of shoreline took on new shapes and perspectives.

We spent the afternoon watching the landscape rather than watching the clock. Mountains framed the lake, wooded islands dotted the water, and occasional homes appeared along the shoreline. The pace was unhurried, giving us time to simply enjoy being there.

As Weirs Beach gradually came back into view, the cruise was drawing to an end. A few hours earlier, we had left the shore looking forward to seeing Lake Winnipesaukee from the water. Now we were returning with a collection of photographs—and a different appreciation for the Big Lake.

Weirs Beach comes into view as our enjoyable cruise across Lake Winnipesaukee draws to an end. © Rex Vogel, *all rights reserved*

Seeing the lake anew

Some places reveal more with time

As Weirs Beach came back into view, our cruise aboard the M/S Mount Washington was coming to an end. We had spent a pleasant September day crossing Lake Winnipesaukee, stopping in Wolfeboro and enjoying the ever-changing views from the water.

I had seen this lake before from its shores and from high above at Castle in the Clouds. Each perspective revealed something different. From above, I could appreciate the sweep of the lake and the mountains that surround it. From the water, I noticed the smaller details—the wooded islands, quiet stretches of shoreline, and homes tucked among the trees.

Perhaps that is what I enjoy most about returning to places I have visited before. There is always another way to see them.

The M/S Mount Washington cruise wasn’t an adventure in the usual sense. It was simply several unhurried hours on the water, enjoying the scenery, and the company of a beautiful New Hampshire day.

Sometimes, that’s more than enough.

Seeing the lake anew

Some places reveal more with time

As Weirs Beach came back into view, our day on Lake Winnipesaukee was coming to an end. The M/S Mount Washington had carried us across the Big Lake, through its islands and along its shores with a stop in Wolfeboro along the way.

I had seen Winnipesaukee from its shores and from high above at Castle in the Clouds. Yet being on the water felt different. The lake wasn’t simply something to look at; it was something to move through. Islands, mountains, and shoreline became part of the experience.

Perhaps that is why familiar places continue to draw us back. We don’t always return because the place has changed. Sometimes we return because we are willing to see it differently.

That pleasant September day aboard the M/S Mount Washington gave me another way to experience a lake I thought I already knew. There is always another perspective waiting to be discovered.

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Editor’s note

This article was originally published in September 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.

Castle in the Clouds: Where History Meets the Lakes Region

High above New Hampshire’s Lakes Region, Castle in the Clouds combines the history of Lucknow Mansion with mountain trails, forests, waterfalls, and spectacular views of Lake Winnipesaukee.

There are places you visit for what is there and places you remember because of what you saw from there. Castle in the Clouds is both.

High above New Hampshire’s Lakes Region, the historic Lucknow Mansion sits amid forests and mountains overlooking Lake Winnipesaukee. I had already written about Winnipesaukee in Smile of the Great Spirit: Lake Winnipesaukee but seeing the lake from Castle in the Clouds gave me a different perspective.

The lake was still the lake but from this vantage point I could see how it fits into the larger landscape of mountains, forests, and countryside. Somehow, that changed the way I saw it.

Castle in the Clouds would prove to be more than a historic mansion with a spectacular view. It was a place to step into history, walk old carriage roads, explore the forest, and simply spend time taking in the beauty of the Lakes Region.

The grand entrance to Castle in the Clouds, where history, mountain scenery, and the beauty of New Hampshire’s Lakes Region come together. © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

The man behind the mansion

From shoe factory to mountain retreat

Thomas Gustave Plant’s path to Lucknow was anything but ordinary.

Born in Bath, Maine, in 1859 to French Canadian immigrants, Plant left school at 14 to help support his family. After apprenticing as a shoe laster, he rose from factory worker to factory owner in just 11 years. At 32, he established the Thomas G. Plant Company. By 1910, his Jamaica Plain factory was the largest factory in the United States and the largest shoe factory in the world, producing six million pairs of shoes a year.

At 51, Plant sold his company and turned toward retirement. His attention shifted to New Hampshire’s Ossipee Mountains where he and his new wife, Olive, found the setting for the life they wanted.

Plant began acquiring land in 1911, eventually assembling 6,300 acres. Between 1913 and 1914, he and Olive built a 16-room Arts and Crafts mansion, along with stables, gatehouses, a greenhouse, recreational facilities, and miles of carriage and bridle trails. Plant later wrote that he spent more than a million dollars creating his dream home.

They called the estate Lucknow.

For 27 years, it was their home. They rode horses on the trails, entertained guests, and enjoyed the mountain landscape that had drawn Plant there in the first place.

The fortune that created Lucknow eventually disappeared and the estate was mortgaged and ultimately foreclosed after Plant’s death in 1941. But his mountain retreat survived.

More than a century later, we can still walk through the home Plant built and see the dream he left behind.

The stonework, windows, and architectural details of Castle in the Clouds reveal the craftsmanship that went into Thomas Plant’s mountain retreat more than a century ago. © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

A mountain estate

More than a mansion

Castle in the Clouds occupies the former 6,300-acre Lucknow Estate, created in the early twentieth century by millionaire Thomas Plant. At its heart is the 1913–1914 Lucknow Mansion, built as a private mountain retreat and now preserved as a window into another era.

But the mansion is only part of the estate.

Gardens, forests, waterfalls, old carriage roads, and 28 miles of trails extend across the property. The scale of the estate makes it feel less like a historic house and more like a landscape designed to be explored.

For an RVer, there is one important consideration. The old carriage roads are narrow and winding and they aren’t suitable for today’s large recreational vehicles.

That’s not really a drawback.

It means the motorhome stays behind and the best way to discover the estate is on foot.

Step inside Lucknow

A house surprisingly ahead of its time

Walking into Lucknow Mansion is like stepping into the early twentieth century when Thomas Plant and his wife, Olive, called this mountain estate home.

The furnishings, rooms, and vintage clothing offer glimpses of how the Plants lived but the house itself tells a more surprising story. Lucknow was designed with conveniences remarkably advanced for its time.

A central vacuuming system was built into the mansion, along with unusual plumbing fixtures such as needle showers which delivered dozens of fine streams of water rather than the single spray of a modern shower. Features we take for granted today were anything but ordinary when the house was completed in 1914.

A self-guided tour lets you explore at your own pace while guided tours provide a closer look at the main floors. A behind-the-scenes tour takes you into the basement and reveals some of the less visible workings of the estate.

The details are as interesting as the grand rooms. Together, they offer a glimpse into how the Plants lived and how they imagined modern living more than a century ago.

A sweeping view across New Hampshire’s Lakes Region, with Lake Winnipesaukee stretching toward the surrounding mountains and countryside. © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

The view

The reason for building here

The most compelling part of Castle in the Clouds may be the view from the grounds. Lake Winnipesaukee spreads below, its islands, bays, and peninsulas framed by mountains and forests. On a clear day, the landscape seems to stretch toward the horizon.

It is easy to understand why Thomas Plant chose this mountainside. Lucknow wasn’t simply built in the mountains; the house and grounds were positioned to make the landscape part of everyday life.

From this elevation, Winnipesaukee takes on a different character. The lake’s irregular shoreline and scattered islands become part of a much larger landscape with mountains rising beyond them.

I had written about Winnipesaukee from the lake itself. Here, I could see the relationship between the lake, mountains, forests, and countryside that define the Lakes Region.

The mansion brought me here. The view made me stay.

Walking the many trails of Castle in the Clouds reveals spectacular views of the mountains, forests, and Lake Winnipesaukee below. © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Take the trails

Discovering the estate on foot

The 28 miles of trails at Castle in the Clouds reveal a side of the estate that can’t be seen from the mansion. Old carriage roads and footpaths wind through the forest, following streams, and leading to waterfalls.

Some trails are gentle walks; others offer a more challenging hike. Along the way, the historic carriage roads provide a reminder of how visitors once traveled through the estate while the forest and water make the experience feel far removed from the mansion above.

For me, this is one of the pleasures of Castle in the Clouds. You can leave the formal grounds behind and simply walk, listening to the water and watching for what appears around the next bend.

You don’t need to explore all 28 miles.

Choose a trail and see where it leads.

**Lake Winnipesaukee unfolds below Castle in the Clouds, offering a spectacular perspective of the lake, islands, and surrounding mountains.** © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

Choose your tour

The deeper you look, the more Lucknow reveals

There is more than one way to explore Lucknow Mansion and each reveals something different.

The self-guided tour covers the first and second floors, allowing you to move at your own pace with interpreters available for questions. The one-hour guided tour goes deeper into the mansion’s construction, the Plant family, and their life at Lucknow.

Then there is the basement.

The 45-minute guided basement tour explores the physical plant and work areas that kept this state-of-the-art mansion running. It also examines the advanced appliances and amenities enjoyed by the Plants and offers a glimpse into the servants who maintained the estate.

Other tours take you outside. Garden tours explore the historic plantings and landscape while guided hikes reveal the natural and human history of the estate. Seasonal offerings provide still other perspectives, including opportunities to explore Lucknow as the sun sets behind the mountains.

You can simply walk through the mansion, dig deeper into its history, see how it worked behind the scenes, or follow its story into the gardens and surrounding landscape.

The more you look, the more Lucknow reveals.

Wandering the grounds of Castle in the Clouds reveals historic pathways, peaceful forests, and unexpected views around every bend. © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

More than a museum

A place that keeps giving

Castle in the Clouds isn’t simply a historic mansion preserved for visitors. The estate remains a place where people gather, learn, and enjoy the outdoors.

More than 200 programs and events are offered throughout the year. You might join a guided hike or bird walk, try watercolor or creative writing, bring children to a craft hour or story time, or stretch out on the lawn for yoga. Solar and star-gazing programs offer another way to experience the property.

Special events bring their own energy including the Community Arts Festival, Castle Gala, Castle Car Show, and Christmas at the Castle.

What I find appealing is the variety. You can come for the history, return for a hike, discover the gardens, attend an event, or simply spend an afternoon enjoying the setting.

Lucknow may be more than a century old but it hasn’t been left in the past.

It is still a place to experience.

**The New Hampshire countryside unfolds along the approach to Castle in the Clouds, offering a glimpse of the mountain landscape that awaits above.** © Rex Vogel, all rights reserved

A different way of seeing

Sometimes a familiar place needs a new perspective

I came to Castle in the Clouds expecting a historic mansion and a spectacular view.

I found both but left thinking about something else.

I had already written about Lake Winnipesaukee and thought I knew the landscape. From high above the lake, surrounded by mountains and forests, I saw it differently. Winnipesaukee was no longer simply a destination but part of a much larger landscape that Plant had recognized more than a century ago.

Perhaps that is what travel sometimes gives us—not something entirely new but a new way of seeing something we thought we knew.

For me, that was the gift of Castle in the Clouds.

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Editor’s note

America’s Greatest Lake Towns to Visit This Summer

Get a dose of summertime tranquility or find a dockside party out on the lake

It’s no secret that I love to travel (in my motorhome)—in fact, it’s pretty much what I do. And with every new adventure I always learn something new. That’s why I enjoy writing about each road trip and sharing my experiences to help you plan your next RV adventure.

Nothing announces summer quite like a trip to “The Lake.” Whether you live in a landlocked state or overlook the ocean, chances are there’s a lake within a two-hour drive that you and everyone you know never refer to by name. It’s just “The Lake” and those two words evoke images of dockside cannonballs, twilight barbecues, and general relaxation in nature.

Which lake you’re going to never matters, really! It’s a mindset, a stress-melting escape near the water that has you glancing at prices as you pass the town’s Main Street real estate office. Every part of America has a place like this and while each have their charms, some stand tall above the rest. These American lake towns are ideal summer destinations whether your idea of vacation involves tranquil time in the wilderness or raging ‘til sunrise.

Lake Powell *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Lake Powell, Utah

Turns out water and deserts go together in Lake Powell

Why visit for RV travelers

Lake Powell offers breathtaking views combining a vast blue reservoir with striking desert red rock formations. RV campers can enjoy spectacular sunrises and sunsets that create unforgettable backdrops for their stay.

If you think the deserts of Utah are trippy, wait till you see all that colossal red and orange rock emerging from a blue body of water. And if you thought “lake town” and didn’t think desert, prepare to be wonderfully wrong. Lake Powell is Utah’s kayaking, boating, swimming, and all-around-incredible-cliff-views playground.

With all the nearby national parks and out-of-this-world hikes, you’ll probably want to be in Utah for your next vacation anyway. But given the heat waves, you’ll likely be looking for an escape from the state’s dry-out-your-nostrils heat. Enter the splashy, wondrous Lake Powell. Zion and Arches are pretty nice and all but those in the know keep the mind-blowing adventures going by driving south across sandy cliffs towards the epic lake.

Wahweap is the town with the most boating options which spans the Utah and Arizona border. Lake Powell also dips briefly in the neighboring southern sate. But, since the majority of the lake—and the most wild images—sits on the northern side, I’m picking Utah as the destination. Though, when you do want to post up, the town of Page in Arizona will have the most options. From there you can also check out Horseshoe Bend and try your luck at getting a lottery ticket for Antelope Canyon.

But you came here for the water and that’s where you want to spend most of your time, made even better by renting a jeep here in 4WD country and trying out the camping thing to get to the most stunningly remote views. Just pack a lot of water.

Wahweap RV & Campground *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

RV camping

Lake Powell’s RV camping scene offers diverse accommodations from luxury glamping to rustic lakeside boondocking with excellent access to water sports, hiking, and iconic nearby attractions, making it an ideal destination for RV travelers seeking both comfort and adventure.

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Lake Winnipesaukee *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Wolfeboro, New Hampshire

Lake Winnipesaukee in Wolfeboro is waspy and totally worth it

Why visit for RV travelers

Wolfeboro is an excellent destination for RV travelers seeking a peaceful, natural setting combined with easy access to outdoor recreation and charming small-town amenities.

The oldest resort town in America happens to sit on the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee. Families return to this (frankly, WASP-y) New England community year after year to escape the heat. And such famous lake lovers as Kurt Vonnegut, Paul Newman, Drew Barrymore, Jimmy Fallon, and Dustin Hoffman have also been known to rent and own homes here.

Thanks to a crop of young summer renters, the scene here has lately felt like a less-stuffy country club. The chefs at La Boca are bringing back their famed wild blueberry soup and Lone Wolfe Brewing Company is becoming a fixture. While the lake is the main attraction, Wolfeboro also sees its share of festivals, farmers markets, and free concerts.

The best day of the summer? Lobster Day at Hunter’s IGA Foodstore (in the process of getting rebuilt after a devastating fire). A massive truck pulls up filled with lobsters and stays until it is empty. The price per pound can’t be beat—it’s pretty much a local holiday.

This historic “Oldest Summer Resort” offers a serene lakeside escape with a small-town vibe, perfect for RVers seeking charm and water-based fun.

Wolfsboro *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

RV camping

Wolfeboro Campground is a short drive from downtown, offering full hookups, a pool, and pet-friendly sites. It’s ideal for exploring the lake and nearby museums. Lake Forest RV Resort (nearby in Wakefield) provides spacious sites with full hookups and lake access, perfect for longer stays.

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Smile of the Great Spirit: Lake Winnipesaukee

Mount Dora *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Mount Dora, Florida

A quintessential lighthouse is the perfect place to watch sunset over Mount Dora

Why visit for RV travelers

The area offers peaceful lakes such as Lake Dora and Lake Saunders with opportunities for fishing, boating, swimming, and hiking in lush forests and springs nearby. Trimble Park, just minutes from downtown, provides lakefront RV sites with boat slips and walking trails, giving campers a classic “Old Florida” experience.

Sure, the idea of a Mount Anything in Florida seems a little far fetched but in this state a whopping 184 feet of elevation rates you mountain status. So pack some extra oxygen and head to this lake town about 45 minutes north of Orlando which began as a vacation getaway decades before Flagler brought tourism to Florida.

Mount Dora’s original hotel is still standing at the Lakeside Inn where it’s been welcoming guests since 1883. You can still grab a drink and sit out on its long covered porch enjoying the sunset over the relatively-undisturbed slice of Florida nature. Cypress trees dripping in Spanish moss line the shoreline and the evenings give you a sense of what the state was like before all the world moved in.

The food in Mt. Dora has fortunately advanced past 1883 and its location near Central Florida’s abundant farms means the food is delightfully fresh. Dine among modern art and open spaces at 1921, a converted house that does spectacular nightly vegetable specials. Or eat in a library at Goblin Market, a local favorite that’s been around nearly 30 years. For drinks, head a story above the main drag to One Flight Up whose wordplay is only outdone by its wine selection and views out to the lake.

The water will be calling you and if you didn’t bring your own boat take a two-hour Cat Boat tour with CatBoat Adventures. The speedy little two seaters take you across the lake to the Dora Canal, a stunning waterway that takes you deep into old natural Florida, one of the most unexpectedly scenic spots in the state.

RV camping

For a full-service, upscale RV resort experience near Mount Dora, Fisherman’s Cove Golf & RV Resort stands out with its extensive amenities and spacious lots. If you prefer staying right in Mount Dora with easy access to town, Woods-N-Water Trails RV Community offers a peaceful, community-oriented option. For lake lovers and those 55+, Lake Saunders RV Resort provides a quiet lakeside retreat. For a more rustic, nature-focused stay with lakefront views, Trimble Park is a top pick. Each location is pet-friendly and wheelchair accessible, catering to a variety of RV camping preferences around Mount Dora.

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11+ Sensational Things to do in Mount Dora

Lake George *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Lake George, New York

Lake George claims to be the Queen of American Lakes

Why visit for RV travelers

Lake George is a top-tier destination for RV travelers seeking a blend of family-friendly amenities, scenic Adirondack wilderness, and easy access to outdoor activities and local attractions.

New Yorkers love an upstate moment, especially the Adirondacks. The entire region is studded with blissfully chill lake towns—and while Lake Placid reigns as the most iconic, I’m going to set it aside for the summer and come back in autumn when you can take in the blazing foliage along Mirror Lake or hit the ski slopes on Whiteface Mountain in winter.

For classic Griswold summer vacation vibes, I like Lake George. If you’ve ever wanted to camp on a secluded island, Lake George has 44 state-owned ones where you’ll find nearly 400 campsites, some of which you can reserve for as little as $28/night.

There are lake cruises, parasailing, waterfall hikes, boat rentals, beer at Adirondack Pub and Brewery, and a great lakeside winery. One of the state’s largest amusement parks is also nearby, if you’re in that kind of mood. And if you get tired of the crowds, there’s always the 29-mile secluded shoreline of Great Sacandaga Lake just an hour south.

RV camping

If you want a full-featured, resort-style RV camping experience with extensive amenities and family activities, Lake George RV Park is unmatched. For a more nature-focused yet still comfortable stay, Lake George Escape and Lake George Riverview Campground offer excellent riverfront and wooded settings. If convenience to Lake George Village and local attractions is your priority, King Phillip’s Campground and Lake George Camping Village provide easy access with solid amenities.

Looking for more on lake camping

Lake Mead *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Lake Mead, Nevada/Arizona

Whether you seek outdoor adventure or solitude in nature, Lake Mead National Recreational Area is a bucket list location

Why visit for RV travelers

Lake Mead is ideal for RV travelers seeking a blend of adventure, relaxation, and convenience with modern amenities, spectacular scenery, and proximity to iconic landmarks like Hoover Dam and Las Vegas. Whether you want a full-service campground or a rustic boondocking experience, Lake Mead offers a memorable and versatile RV destination.

Lake Mead, the largest reservoir in the United States by water capacity, is a sprawling desert oasis formed by the Hoover Dam on the Colorado River, straddling the Nevada-Arizona border. Spanning over 1.5 million acres within the Lake Mead National Recreation Area, it’s a haven for RV travelers seeking a mix of water sports, desert adventures, and proximity to cultural and historic landmarks like the Hoover Dam and Las Vegas (30 miles away).

At full capacity, Lake Mead stretches about 112 miles long with a surface area of 247 square miles and a maximum depth of 532 feet. The reservoir holds over 28 million acre-feet of water when full, though water levels have been significantly lower in recent years due to drought and increased demand, currently about 174 feet below full pool as of July 2025.

Popular activities include boating, fishing (with species like rainbow trout, catfish, and bass), swimming, water skiing, wakeboarding, kayaking, and tubing. There are multiple marinas for boat rentals and houseboat accommodations as well as numerous lakeside camping sites for tents and RVs.

Hiking trails such as the Historic Railroad Trail and River Mountains Loop Trail provide scenic views of the desert landscape and the lake. The area is also known for unique desert wildlife and plants with the park located at the intersection of the Mojave, Great Basin, and Sonoran deserts.

Lake Mead RV Village *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

RV camping

There are six campgrounds and four RV village parks around Lake Mead managed by the National Park Service and concessionaires. Popular campgrounds include Boulder Beach, Callville Bay, Echo Bay, Las Vegas Bay, and Temple Bar. Campgrounds provide basic facilities including restrooms, running water, picnic tables, grills, and some shaded areas. RV hook-ups (electric, water, sewage) are available at certain concession-managed parks like Lake Mead RV Village, Callville Bay, and Echo Bay.

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These lake towns are celebrated for their unique local culture, outdoor activities like boating, fishing, and hiking, and welcoming atmospheres that make them ideal summer escapes for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

Whether you seek desert oasis fun, alpine lake adventures, historic resort charm, or vibrant arts and dining scenes, America’s greatest lake towns offer diverse experiences to enjoy a refreshing, memorable summer by the water.

Worth Pondering…

The still waters of a lake reflect the beauty around it. When the mind is still, the beauty of the Self is seen reflected in it.

— B.K.S. Iyengar

The 25 Most Beautiful Places in the U.S. and Canada

These are 25 of the most beautiful places for RV travel

What is the most beautiful place in America? To compile most beautiful 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 beautiful 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 definitely 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.

Grand Canyon *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

1. Grand Canyon, Arizona

The Grand Canyon has to be one of the most photographed sites in the world but there’s no way pictures can do it justice as impressive as they may be. Offering some of the most spectacular scenery on the planet, the Grand Canyon truly merits the term breathtaking. The vast geologic wonderland, one mile deep and up to 18 miles across, displays countless layers of colorful rock and practically hypnotic vistas.

>> Get more tips for visiting Grand Canyon National Park

Charleston *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

2. Charleston, South Carolina

Historic Antebellum Mansions, Civil War sites, year round festivals, pristine beaches, barrier islands, and mouthwatering Lowcountry cuisine are just a few of the reasons why Charleston is one of America’s favorite destinations. Experience this diverse southern city which blends French, English, West African, and traditional Southern American cultures into the music, art, food, and lifestyle.

>> Get more tips for visiting Charleston

Zion National Park *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

3. Zion National Park, Utah

Glorious Navajo Sandstone cliffs, rainbow-colored canyons, and incredible biodiversity make Zion one of the most popular national parks in the U.S.

>> Get more tips for visiting Zion National Park

Sedona *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

4. Sedona, Arizona

Renowned for the radiant red sandstone formations surrounding it, Sedona is set in a serene spot. The towering red cliffs are almost other-worldly in a way and they are definitely worthy of a photo or two. Make sure to check out some of the area’s most popular sightseeing spots while you’re there such as the Chapel of the Holy Cross and Coffee Pot Rock.Located in the center of Arizona, the small city has long been considered a sacred and spiritual place. Many New Age shops, alternative healing and wellness centers can be found around town.

>> Get more tips for visiting Sedona

5. Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire

Lake Winnipesaukee is the largest lake in New Hampshire. It is approximately 21 miles long (northwest-southeast) and from 1 to 9 miles wide (northeast-southwest) covering 69 square miles—71 square miles when Paugus Bay is included—with a maximum depth of 180 feet. The center area of the lake is called The Broads.

The lake contains at least 264 islands, half of which are less than a quarter-acre in size and is indented by several peninsulas yielding a total shoreline of approximately 288 miles. The driving distance around the lake is 63 miles. It is 504 feet above sea level. Winnipesaukee is the third-largest lake in New England after Lake Champlain and Moosehead Lake.

Experience the beauty of Lake Winnipesaukee during a narrated scenic tour aboard the historic M/S Mount Washington. Learn about the history of the region and local folklore surrounded by some of the most beautiful scenery in New England.

>> Get more tips for visiting Lake Winnipesaukee

Blue Ridge Parkway *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

6. Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina and Virginia

Stretching 469 miles from the Great Smokies to Shenandoah, the 45 mph, no-trucks route winds past overlook after overlook letting road-trippers marvel at the mountains’ dreamy blue hue. Driving down this highway will allow you to take in the stunning Appalachian Mountains including multiple valleys and peaks such as the Peaks of Otter and Roanoke Mountain.

>> Get more tips for visiting Blue Ridge Parkway

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

7. Banff National Park, Alberta

Canada’s oldest national park showcases the majesty of the Canadian Rockies. The park is known for its staggering peaks, dense pine forests, hot springs, animals (grizzlies, bighorn sheep, and moose all call the park home) and azure glacier-fed lakes such as Moraine Lake set in a bowl amid the Valley of the Ten Peaks.

Santa Fe *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

8. Santa Fe, New Mexico

Santa Fe is the oldest state capital in the U.S. and as such it has a very colorful history including a historic main plaza that will make you feel as if you’re in an entirely different country. The City Different is renowned for its abundance of unique attractions, a wide array of art galleries, extraordinary museums, and magnificent architecture. Not surprisingly, for decades Santa Fe has also been a haven for artists including Georgia O’Keefe. By staying in the downtown area’s historic La Fonda you can walk to the Plaza to discover handmade jewelry and browse beautiful works of art.

>> Get more tips for visiting Santa Fe

Monument Valley *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

9. Monument Valley, Arizona and Utah

Monument Valley is a minimalist attraction located along the border of Utah and Arizona. In spite of its simplicity, this red-sand desert may just be one of the most beautiful places you will ever see. A 17-mile Valley Drive leads into the area, and you can spot multiple sandstone buttes that make for amazing pictures. This valley will make you feel like you are part of an Old Western movie, set in the Wild, Wild West. John Ford’s Point is a great way to look over the scenery allowing you to feast your eyes on the Mittens buttes.

>> Get more tips for visiting Monument Valley

Great Smoky Mountains National Park *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

10. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina and Tennessee

There are plenty of reasons to visit the gorgeous Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It is packed with hiking routes ripe with emerald greenery, waterfalls and bodies of water, and pretty wildflowers ready for photos. Plus, there are many great stops along the way such as Clingmans Dome which contains an observation tower resting on top of the area’s highest peak for breathtaking views. There’s also Cades Cove which is a quiet little valley that feels like a calm, quiet place lost in historical times.

>> Get more tips for visiting Great Smoky Mountains National Park

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

11. Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park, Alberta

The unusual landforms of Writing-on-Stone resulted from the dynamic interaction of geology, climate, and time. In a dramatic landscape of steep-sided canyons and coulees, sandstone cliffs, and eroded sandstone formations called hoodoos. Indigenous peoples created rock art in what is today Southern Alberta. Thousands of petroglyphs and pictographs at more than 138 rock art sites graphically represent the powers of the spirit world that resonate in this sacred landscape and chronicle phases of human history in North America including when Indigenous peoples first came into contact with Europeans.

Canyon de Chelly National Monument *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

12. Canyon de Chelly National Monument, Arizona

A comparatively little-known canyon, Canyon de Chelly (pronounced de shay) has sandstone walls rising up to 1,000 feet, scenic overlooks, well-preserved Anasazi ruins, and an insight into the present day life of the Navajo who still inhabit and cultivate the valley floor. This park is owned by the Navajo Nation and is managed cooperatively. A few Navajo families still live, raise livestock, and farm in the park. For the most memorable experience take a canyon tour with a Navajo guide. It’s a truly authentic, welcoming experience you’ll remember forever.

>> Get more tips for visiting Canyon de Chelly National Monument

Savannah *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

13. Savannah, Georgia

Savannah is an old city that is home to multiple fascinating sites. Its streets are paved with cobblestones and flanked by old buildings like museums and churches that are simply stuffed with history. Downtown, you’ll find one of the biggest National Historic Landmark districts in the U.S. which also connect to the riverfront and the coast. Forsyth Park was built in the 1840s and fitted with a stupendous fountain, romantic benches, and plenty of iconic oaks covered in moss for an even more calming aesthetic.

>> Get more tips for visiting Savannah

Saguaro National Park *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

14. Saguaro National Park, Arizona

One of Tucson’s most popular attractions is Saguaro National Park which is a great place to experience the desert landscape around this well-known town and see the famous saguaro cacti up close. With an east and west portion, the park has two sections approximately 30 minutes apart. Both sections of the park offer great opportunities to experience the desert and enjoy hiking trails.

>> Get more tips for visiting Saguaro National Park

Wells Gray Park *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

15. Wells Gray Park, British Columbia

Wells Gray is not as highly acclaimed as Mount Robson or the national parks in the Canadian Rockies. And having been there, I have no idea why. I mean… this place is awesome!

Wells Gray has something to offer every outdoor interest: lush alpine meadows, excellent birding and wildlife viewing opportunities, hiking, boating, canoeing, and kayaking. Guiding businesses offer horseback riding, canoeing, whitewater rafting, fishing, and hiking. The history enthusiast can learn about the early homesteaders, trappers, and prospectors or about the natural forces that produced Wells Gray’s many volcanoes, waterfalls, mineral springs, and glaciers.

Many people head to Wells Gray for the lakes but there are also over 40 named waterfalls in the park. Many of them are in remote corners of the park but eight of them are easy to reach from Clearwater Valley Road.

>> Get more tips for visiting Wells Gray

Badlands National Park *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

16. Badlands National Park, South Dakota

Badlands National Park may sound foreboding but in reality it’s one of the most beautiful places in the US. It is famous for holding an extremely rich and diverse fossil bed that is definitely one of the best that earth has to offer. On top of that, Badlands National Park is packed with incredible rock formations that look stunning at all times of the day with their differently shaded stripes. There are also grasslands if you’re more for wildlife where you can spot all the prairie dogs herding sheep for a calm, serene experience.

>> Get more tips for visiting Badlands National Park

Petrified Forest National Park *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

17. Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona

Petrified Forest is known for its treasure trove of fossilized logs exposed after eons of erosion by wind and water. About 60 million years ago tectonic action pushed the Colorado Plateau upwards exposing the layers of rock containing the park’s Triassic fossils. The park is composed of two sections: the north section is a colorful badlands called the Painted Desert and the southern section contains most of the petrified wood.

The park consists of a 28-mile road that offers numerous overlooks and winds through the mesas and wilderness. Visitors can also choose to hike a variety of trails ranging from easy to difficult.

>> Get more tips for visiting Petrified Forest National Park

Tombstone *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

18. Tombstone, Arizona

You can’t come to the Southwest and not truly experience the Wild West with staged gunfights in the streets and characters walking through town in period costumes to recreate the glory days of this small Arizona town. With attractions such as OK Corral, Allen Street, Boothill Graveyard, and Courthouse State Historic Park, each shop, restaurant, and attraction is designed with tourists in mind and provide the opportunity soak in the town’s history.

>> Get more tips for visiting Tombstone

White Sands National Park *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

19. White Sands National Park, New Mexico

An incredibly unique location, White Sands National Park consists of a reaching, widespread expanse of white gypsum crystal sand dunes backdropped by a picturesque blue sky. Though the sight of white sand as far as the eye can see isn’t the most exciting trip for some this tranquil environment is so individual and one-of-a-kind that it is easily one of the most beautiful places in the U.S. Bask in the calm peace, feel the soft, warm sand beneath your toes, and marvel at the vastness of this monument.

>> Get more tips for visiting White Sands National Park

Hoover Dam *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

20. Hoover Dam, Arizona and Nevada

Linking Arizona and Nevada, Hoover Dam is one of America’s great engineering marvels to date and a fantastic Arizona road trip. Completed in 1935, this massive and hard to miss structure crosses the Colorado River and sits at a total of 726 feet high and 1,244 feet long. You are able to drive or walk across the dam for free or take a tour of the dam. The visitor center provides information on the tours and has a café where you can stop for some basic grub.

>> Get more tips for visiting Hoover Dam

Arches National Park *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

21. Arches National Park, Utah

The Arches National Park looks like a scene out of a movie. Erosion from millions and millions of years has led to the creation of more than 2,000 arches each fashioned naturally from sandstone. It is worth noting that environmental change has caused 43 of these arches to fall to time which means officials warn against getting too close. Still, the sight of these bright, orange structures is well worth the extra caution and you’ll want to plan your trip soon to catch as many of them as possible in full glory.

>> Get more tips for visiting Arches National Park

Creole Nature Trail *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

22. Creole Nature Trail All-American Road, Louisiana

Starting on the outskirts of Lake Charles and ending at the Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau, the Creole Nature Trail All-American Road is a network of byways where you’ll find more than 400 bird species, alligators galore, and 26 miles of Gulf of Mexico beaches. Also called America’s Outback, the Creole Nature Trail takes visitors through 180 miles of southwest Louisiana’s backroads.

>> Get more tips for visiting Creole Nature Trail

Big Bend National Park *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

23. Big Bend National Park, Texas

Big Bend National Park on Rio Grande is an absolute wonder of untamed wildlife, spanning over much of the Chihuahuan Desert and all of the Chisos mountains. You can go on a road trip down the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive, relax in the Langford Hot Springs, view the Sam Nail Ranch’s broken-down husk, and enjoy sights of limestone formations across the Rio Grande. There’s so much to do that you may just need to come back again!

>> Get more tips for visiting Big Bend National Park

Black Hills *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

24. Black Hills, South Dakota

In the early 1800s, 60 million buffalo roamed the plains. Rampant overhunting decimated their ranks and by 1889 fewer than 1,000 remained. Today, their numbers have climbed to 500,000; Custer State Park manages a healthy herd. Roading the Black Hills you’ll see the iconic buffalo and other legendary sights including the Badlands, Mount Rushmore, the Crazy Horse Memorial, sprawling parks and the town made famous for having no law: Deadwood.

>> Get more tips for visiting the Black Hills

Carlsbad Caverns National Park *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

25. Carlsbad Cavern, New Mexico

In the Chihuahuan Desert lie more than 100 limestone caves and one of them is none other than the Carlsbad Cavern. Spikes hang from the ceiling in droves and clusters and its winding rocky walls are perfect for spelunkers and adventurers. The way you choose to go is up to you. You can go in through the beautiful, conventional entrance or you can begin 750 feet underground. Either way, you’re in for some enticing exploration,

>> Get more tips for visiting Carlsbad Cavern

Worth Pondering…

“Where are we going, man?”

“I don’t know, but we gotta go.”

—Jack Kerouac, in On the Road

10 Top Places to See Fall Foliage in 2022

Love leaf-peeping?

Summer’s end signals the last days of warm weather in most areas. But it also means the return of fall’s dazzling colors in full display as trees begin to turn for the season. You can plan entire trips around leaf peeping whether it’s heading to a national park for unimpeded foliage or planning a drive to take in the dazzling orange, red, and yellow hues that dominate the landscape.

And while the pastime is popular enough to drive crowds to well-known viewing destinations, there are still plenty of under-the-radar options fbluor getting your fix. Read on to see which secret places in the U.S. are the best to see fall foliage.

Shenandoah National Park *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

While Shenandoah National Park is only a 75-mile drive from America’s capital, it’s a world away from the Washington, D.C. metropolis. The Virginia national park is filled with over 100 expansive miles of countryside. And as autumn approaches, the foliage across the landscape turns into stunning red, orange, and yellow hues. The best time to see the stunning sight is from September through October. This national park also has a fall color webcam that shows the changing leaves virtually on a week-to-week basis through the peak of the season.

Stowe Community Church *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Stowe, Vermont

One of my favorite places in Green Mountain State is the town of Stowe. If you’re driving to Stowe from I-89 you will exit off the Interstate and pass through Waterbury and Waterbury Center. Don’t miss Ben & Jerry’s along the way. A little further up the road in Waterbury Center is the Cold Hollow Cider Mill. You should plan a stop at Cold Hollow for some fresh apple cider and freshly made delicious cider donuts.

Trapp Family Lodge *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Stowe’s Main Street features several small stores, restaurants, and of course the subject of many scenic photos and artwork—the Stowe Community Church.

Make a trip up the Mountain Road to the Trapp Family Lodge, a unique mountain resort featuring Austrian-inspired architecture and European-style accommodations. The Lodge offers stunning mountain views along with activities for every season.

Cherohala Skyway *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Cherohala Skyway National Scenic Byway, North Carolina and Tennessee

The Skyway offers the cultural heritage of the Cherokees and early settlers in a grand forest environment in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Enjoy mile-high vistas and brilliant fall foliage as well as great hiking opportunities and picnic spots in magnificent and seldom-seen portions of the southern Appalachian National Forests. Popular stops along and near the Skyway include Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest, Santeetlah Lake, and many Cherokee sites. This byway in particular is known for its fall colors.

The leaves begin changing color as early as late September in the higher elevations and continue through mid-November in lower elevations. The dogwoods, poplars, and sourwoods are some of the first to transform. The red oaks, hickories, and white oaks change later and often hold their leaves until late fall.

Fredericksburg *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Fredericksburg, Texas

In the heart of the Texas Hill Country, Fredericksburg is aglow with gold, green, auburn, and scarlet shades come autumn. Peruse the local boutiques lining Main Street before attending seasonal festivals such as the 42^nd Annual Oktoberfest from September 30-October 2, 2022, or the 32^nd Fredericksburg Food & Wine Fest on October 22. For prime gold, red, green, and copper maple leaf-viewing, visit Lost Maples State Natural Area, about an hour-and-a-half drive southwest of Fredericksburg. After soaking in the scenery, kick back at one of the Hill Country’s RV parks and campgrounds.

Boston Freedom Trail *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Boston, Massachusetts

Not all fall foliage escapes require getting out into nature—leaf peepers can also head to Boston for a city getaway. The city experiences its peak foliage throughout October with its best colors appearing around Halloween. Visitors are spoiled for choice when it comes to where they can see the changing seasons including Boston Common, Back Bay Fens, and tree-lined neighborhoods like the North End and Beacon Hill.

Fish Lake Scenic Byway *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Fish Lake Scenic Byway, Utah

Fish Lake Scenic Byway (SR-25) bookends Fishlake National Forest, an often-missed oasis featuring three mountain ranges broken up by desert canyons. Fishlake National Forest is a paradise known for its beautiful aspen forests, scenic drives, trails, elk hunting, and mackinaw and rainbow trout fishing. Fish Lake, Utah’s largest natural mountain lake lies in a down-faulted valley (technically known as a graben) at an elevation of 8,843 feet. The 5.5-mile-long lake is one of the most popular fishing resorts in the state attracting as many as 7,000 visitors on summer weekends.

Wolfeboro *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Lakes Region of New Hampshire

If you’re looking for a fall RV vacation destination that might have slightly fewer visitors in September and October, consider the Lakes Region. This area in the central part of the state is home to Lake Winnepesaukee, New Hampshire’s largest body of water. Here you’ll also find scenic Squam Lakes where On Golden Pond was filmed. Whether you’re driving around the lakes, strolling through small towns like Meredith or Wolfeboro, seeking out covered bridges, taking a scenic boat cruise, or hiking in the area’s mountains, you’ll likely be able to enjoy pretty changing leaves.

Heritage Driving Tour *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Heritage Driving Tour, Indiana

The 90-mile Heritage Trail Driving Tour winds through Amish Country taking you down rural highways, country lanes, and charming main streets. Stop in Shipshewana to stroll the shop-lined streets where you’ll find handcrafted items, baked goods, and the Midwest’s largest flea market. Enjoy a delightful Amish meal at Das Dutchman Essenhaus in Middlebury or Amish Acres in Nappanee.

Ocean Drive, Newport *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Newport, Rhode Island

There’s no wrong time to visit Newport. But perhaps the best time is those magical few weeks at the end of October when the leaves change colors and the Newport Mansions put on their spookiest Halloween shows. While visiting, drive down Ocean Drive, a glorious coastal stretch that will leave you in awe.

Blue Ridge Mountains in northern Georgia *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Blue Ridge Mountains, Georgia

When you think of places to see fall foliage, New England destinations probably come to mind but southern parts of the country have colors that are just as beautiful. A road trip through Georgia’s the Blue Ridge Mountains offers stunning foliage without the cold weather you’d find up north.

Brasstown Bald *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Start at the Russell Brasstown Scenic Byway in the northern part of the state which takes you through the Blue Ridge Mountains along the Chattahoochee River. Stop in Helen, a mountain town modeled after a quaint Bavarian village, and at Brasstown Bald, the highest natural point in Georgia and the ultimate foliage viewing vantage point.

Make a pit stop in Clayto, an old mountain town with antique shops, galleries, and restaurants. Take a hike in the nearby Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest or visit wineries and vineyards in Georgia Wine Country. Then head east to the Tallulah Gorge State Park where you can explore a 1,000-foot chasm carved over millions of years by the Tallulah River.

Worth Pondering…

Every leaf speaks bliss to me, fluttering from the autumn tree.

—Emily Brontë, Fall, Leaves, Fall

9 Beautiful Places to Escape the Summer Heat

It’s hotter than blue blazes!

It’s been a long, hot summer—and it’s likely to just keep getting hotter. That jug of fresh iced tea isn’t meant to be sipped inside with the shades drawn and that blow-up kiddie pool you’ve outgrown doesn’t have to be your only means of summer heat relief. Because I have good news! There are quite a few places you can go to escape the heat—and none of them involve jetting to the Southern Hemisphere.

Lassen Volcanic National Park *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Historical weather data shows the five coolest summer states also happen to be filled with excellent RV camping destinations, too. The five best places to stay cool in summer are Oregon, Washington, California, Colorado, and Alaska. These cool summer states are geographically immense. Each state gives you tons of camping choices from busy national parks to remote coastal and mountain destinations.

RV owners like us are lucky. Finding the coolest camping destinations in the summer is pretty easy. With a full tank of fuel and one turn of the key, our homes on wheels carry everything we need for a summer escape away from hot spots to a cool river, mountaintop, or breezy beach. Most of us will put in a few hours of driving to reach the coolest place to camp in August.

Glacial Skywalk, Jasper National Park *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Cool off with a trip to the mountains, the water, or up north. I’ve hand-selected nine places where you can beat the heat this summer while avoiding airport woes such as lost luggage, canceled flights, tarmac delays, and labor shortages—you know, all of the fun things people are dealing with right now not to mention the heightened cost of air travel.

Mountains

Higher elevations provide sweet relief from the sweltering heat and humidity of summer. Here are three wonderful mountainous locales where you can escape the heat.

On the road to Mount Lemmon *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Mount Lemmon, Arizona

Mount Lemmon, an oasis in the middle of the desert, is 20 degrees cooler than Tucson on average. Driving up the mountain, the plants slowly change from cactus and shrubs to oak and ponderosa pines. The area offers hiking, camping, and fishing. While you are up there, consider stopping by the Mount Lemmon Cookie Cabin for cookies, pizza, chili, and sandwiches. While you’re at 9,000 feet, check out the Arizona stars at the Mount Lemmon Skycenter.

Get more tips for visiting Mount Lemmon

Lassen Volcanic Park *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway, California and Oregon

For truly unusual and spectacular views, pack up the RV and head for the Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway connecting California’s Lassen National Park with Crater Lake in Oregon. The north-to-south route covers about 500 miles tracing along geological formations created by volcanic activity of the Cascade Mountain Range.

The drive ventures through the majestic Shasta Valley and offers unobstructed vistas of Mount Shasta, the second tallest volcano in the country. There are countless things to see and do during a visit, but don’t miss Petroglyph Point, one of the country’s largest and most accessible panels of Native American rock art.

Get more tips for visiting Lassen Volcanic National Park

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. 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.

Cold Hollow Cider Mill *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

If you want a lazy day, head out of town and stop by Cold Hollow Cider Mill for a good picnic— sandwiches with Vermont cheddar cheese and hard and soft cider. Take your lunch to nearby Waterbury Center State Park on the Waterbury Reservoir.

Visit the Trapp Family Lodge (yes, those Von Trapps). In addition to its hiking and mountain biking trails, the Alpine resort offers tennis, rock-wall climbing, swimming pools, and more. They brew their excellent Austrian-style beer in their bierhall where you can dine without staying at the lodge.

Get more tips for visiting Vermont

Near Water

When it’s hot outside we all want to be near a lake, river, or ocean destination. Here are three fabulous destinations to beat the heat near the water.

Cumberland Island *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Cumberland Island, Georgia

Are you ready to hit the beach without the crowds? Where you can find a piece of the coast to call your own? Cumberland Island is Georgia’s southernmost island and a place where you can truly get away from the modern world. With no bridge to come to Cumberland Island travelers have to use a ferry or private boat to get to this beautiful place which is managed by the national park service.

Although Georgia’s Atlantic coastline is only about 100 miles long, the Peach State is home to 30 percent of the barrier islands along the Atlantic Seaboard. And Cumberland is the largest and fairest of them all with the longest expanse of the pristine seashore—18 glorious miles of deserted sand. Truly, this is a bucket list destination.

Get more tips for visiting Cumberland Island

Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire

Lake Winnipesaukee is the largest lake in New Hampshire located in the Lakes Region. It is approximately 21 miles long (northwest-southeast) and from 1 to 9 miles wide (northeast-southwest) covering 69 square miles—71 square miles when Paugus Bay is included—with a maximum depth of 180 feet. The center area of the lake is called The Broads.

The lake contains at least 264 islands, half of which are less than a quarter-acre in size, and is indented by several peninsulas yielding a total shoreline of approximately 288 miles. The driving distance around the lake is 63 miles. It is 504 feet above sea level. Winnipesaukee is the third-largest lake in New England after Lake Champlain and Moosehead Lake. Outflow is regulated by the Lakeport Dam in Lakeport, New Hampshire, on the Winnipesaukee River.

Experience the beauty of Lake Winnipesaukee during a narrated scenic tour aboard the historic M/S Mount Washington. Learn about the history of the region and local folklore surrounded by some of the most beautiful scenery in New England.

Get more tips for visiting Lake Winnipesaukee

La Conner *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

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, artists’ colony, eclectic shops, historic buildings, and tourist destination. Relax by the water, enjoy fine restaurants, and browse through unique shops and art galleries.

Get more tips for visiting La Conner

Northern States and Canada

When the going gets hot, the hot head up north! Here are three great northern destinations that put plenty of space between you and the equator.

Jacksonville *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Jacksonville, Oregon

Jacksonville is nestled in the Siskyou Mountain foothills along the Rogue River Valley and is easy to fall in love with. The little town is at the Heart of Rogue Valley wine country which includes the Applegate Valley Wine Trail. Though sometimes busy the small-town ambiance (population 2,860), gorgeous setting, and beautifully preserved late 1800s architecture combines to make a very attractive town. The little gem of a town is highly walkable and has at least one of everything—except chain stores. Everything from wine to cheese to chocolate, art, and fine dining.

Get more tips for visiting Jacksonville

Banff and Jasper National Parks, Alberta

If you Google “Canada nature,” you’ll see pictures of Banff National Park in the Rockies—and for good reason. Canada’s oldest and most popular national park is Mother Nature’s best. Anywhere you look, there are jagged peaks sprinkled with fluffy powder, bluer than blue glacial lakes, and majestic wildlife.

Icefields Parkway *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

After visiting Banff, take the Icefields Parkway—one of the world’s most scenic drives with more than 100 ancient glaciers—north to Jasper. One of Canada’s prettiest and wildest national parks, Jasper is massive at 4,247 square miles, making it the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies. And it’s a great place to spot wildlife including black and grizzly bears, elk and moose, and big horn sheep and Rocky Mountain goats.

Get more tips for visiting Canada’s Mountain Parks

Wells Gray Provincial Park *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Wells Gray, British Columbia

Wells Gray is not as highly acclaimed as Mount Robson or the national parks in the Canadian Rockies. And having been there, I have no idea why. I mean… this place is awesome!

Get more tips for visiting Wells Gray

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 where you can enjoy beautiful pleasant temperatures while spending time outside. Whether you prefer cities, towns, or national or state parks, mild summer weather is available in many spectacular destinations.

Worth Pondering…

It’s a sure sign of summer if the chair gets up when you do.

—Walter Winchell

10 Amazing Places to RV in August 2022

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

Learning never exhausts the mind.

—Leonardo da Vinci

Italian painter and polymath Leonardo da Vinci was a luminary of the Renaissance era—he not only painted such famed works as the “Mona Lisa” and “The Last Supper, ” but was also an architect, inventor, and military engineer. In his lifetime, he sketched concepts resembling the modern-day bicycle and a flying machine and drew some of the first anatomical charts on human record. His words and life’s work remind us that broadening our horizons is healthy: Exploring new fields and skills will only create a richer life.

This August, I’ll not lament the fleeting days of summer. No, I will embrace it: There is still much to see and do—and places to travel in an RV. August is a time for lazy exploration and taking advantage of the last drops of the season while recharging for the months ahead. There are routes to be taken, mountains to climb, seafood to be eaten, and lakes to discover. Get out there and make the most of it.

Planning an RV trip for a different time of year? Check out my monthly travel recommendations for the best places to travel in June and July. Also, check out my recommendations for August 2021 and September 2021.

Climb a Mountain

Guadalupe River *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Tube down the Guadalupe River

Tubing down Guadalupe River is about as Texan as it gets, and this state park welcomes you with four miles of river frontage. Just one hour from San Antonio and two hours from Austin, Guadalupe River State Park is also one of the more popular camping destinations in the state, particularly during the summertime when swimming in its cool waters is extra appealing for families and kids. When you’re not tubing, paddling, or taking a dip, embark on its hiking and biking trails.

Cathedral Rock, Sedona *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Admire Breathtaking Red Rock in Sedona

Due to its distinctive culture, Sedona is truly a place unlike any other. Visitors can navigate remote canyons, rejuvenate at an energy vortex site, and experience the ancient culture of the Sinagua people. Throughout the red rock are multitudes of secluded viewpoints, cliff dwellings, and well-preserved petroglyphs. In downtown Sedona, you’ll find a vibrant art community dense with unique shops and galleries. Hikers and adventurous-types will enjoy the various trails in Red Rock State Park and the renowned Pink Jeep off-road adventure tours.

Deep sea red shrimp *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

70^th Annual Delcambre Shrimp Festival

The Town of Delcambre, Louisiana, located about 20 miles southwest of Lafayette is home to one of the area’s most productive shrimp fleets. The town devotes an entire weekend to honoring this economic lifeblood.

The Delcambre Shrimp Festival (70^th annual; August 17-21, 2022) is home to one of the best 5-day festivals in South Louisiana. The festival has gained its popularity by providing a variety of delicious dishes and top-notch entertainment including National Recording Artists. Enjoy signature shrimp dishes like boiled shrimp, fried shrimp, shrimp sauce piquante, shrimp salad, and many more. Every shrimp dish consumed at the festival is prepared by volunteer members of the festival association. If you’re not in the mood for shrimp, the festival also offers a variety of other “festival” foods, cold beer, cold drinks, and water. Souvenirs, t-shirts, hats, posters, etc…

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

Hit all seven of Canada’s Rocky Mountain Parks

Renowned for their scenic splendor, the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks are comprised of Banff, Jasper, and Waterton Lakes national parks in Alberta, Kootenay and Yoho national parks in British Columbia, and Mount Robson, Mount Assiniboine, and Hamber provincial parks in British Columbia. The seven parks of the Canadian Rockies form a striking mountain landscape. With rugged mountain peaks, icefields and glaciers, alpine meadows, lakes, waterfalls, extensive karst cave systems, and deeply carved canyons, the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks possess an exceptional natural beauty that attracts millions of visitors annually.

Blue Bell Ice Cream *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Take a Taste Bud Tour at Blue Bell Creameries

Learn what all fuss is about at one of the most iconic creameries in America. Can’t decide which flavor is for you? Try them all because, hey, it’s only $1 a scoop! Since 1907, Blue Bell Ice Cream has won a special place in the heart of Texans. Many would say it’s the best ice cream in the US. For anyone caring to dispute that claim, you can’t know until you try it for yourself and there is no better place to do that than straight at the source. See how the scrumptious stuff is made and learn about the history of the iconic brand before treating yourself to a sample at Blue Bell’s ice cream parlor. At just $1 a scoop, it’s one of the best things to do in the US to beat the heat this summer!

Freedom Trail *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Walk your Way to 17 Historic Sites

The Freedom Trail is a red (mostly brick) path through downtown Boston that leads to 17 significant historic sites. It is a 2.5-mile walk from Boston Common to USS Constitution in Charlestown. Simple ground markers explaining events, graveyards, notable churches, other buildings, and a historic naval frigate are stops along the way.

Most sites are free; Old South Meeting House, Old State House, and Paul Revere House have small admission fees; still others suggest donations. The Freedom Trail is a unit of Boston National Historical Park and is overseen by The Freedom Trail Foundation and the City of Boston’s Freedom Trail Commission.

The trail was originally conceived by local journalist William Schofield who since 1951 had promoted the idea of a pedestrian trail to link together important local landmarks. Mayor John Hynes put Schofield’s idea into action. By 1953, 40,000 people annually were enjoying the sites and history on the Freedom Trail.

In 1974, Boston National Historical Park was established. The National Park Service opened a Visitor Center on State Street where they give free maps of the Freedom Trail and other historic sites as well as sell books about Boston and US history. Today, people walk on the red path of the Freedom Trail to learn about important events that led to independence from Great Britain.

USS Constitution *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

History nerd that I am, I can’t get over how much has happened in such a small area. I love that you can take your time walking it. Traveling on the Freedom Trail shows you how small historical Boston was. The trail is free, and clearly marked and you can walk at your own pace. Be sure to wear your comfy shoes as you’re in for an awesome hike.

NH’s Largest Lake

The Breakers *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

The Grandest of Newport’s Summer “Cottages”

The Breakers is a Vanderbilt mansion located on Ochre Point Avenue in Newport along the Atlantic Ocean. It is a National Historic Landmark, a contributing property to the Bellevue Avenue Historic District, and is owned and operated by the Preservation Society of Newport County. The Breakers is the grandest of Newport’s summer “cottages” and a symbol of the Vanderbilt family’s social and financial preeminence in turn of the century America. Commodore Cornelius Vanderbilt (1794-1877) established the family fortune in steamships and later in the New York Central Railroad which was a pivotal development in the industrial growth of the nation during the late 19th century.

The Breakers is the most famous of the Gilded Age Newport Mansions for good reason. It’s breathtaking in scope and scale. The design of this grand home was inspired by European palaces and every room is more lavish than the last.

One of the Richest Fossil Beds in the World

People are drawn to the rugged beauty of the Badlands National Park. These striking geologic deposits contain one of the world’s richest fossil beds. Ancient mammals such as the rhino, horse, and saber-toothed cat once roamed here.

The park’s 244,000 acres protect an expanse of mixed-grass prairie where bison, bighorn sheep, prairie dogs, and black-footed ferrets live today. Located in southwestern South Dakota, Badlands National Park consists of sharply eroded buttes, pinnacles, and spires.

The Badlands were formed by the geologic forces of deposition and erosion. Deposition of sediments began 69 million years ago when an ancient sea stretched across what is now the Great Plains. After the sea retreated, successive land environments including rivers and flood plains continued to deposit sediments. Although the major period of deposition ended 28 million years ago significant erosion of the Badlands did not begin until a mere half a million years ago. Erosion continues to carve the Badlands buttes today. The rocks and fossils preserve evidence of ancient ecosystems and give scientists clues about how early mammal species lived.

Administered in two units, Sage Creek and Conata Basin, the area is open for backpacking and exploration. The Badlands was the filming location for both Dances with Wolves and Armageddon.

Worth Pondering…

It’s a sure sign of summer if the chair gets up when you do.

—Walter Winchell

Smile of the Great Spirit: Lake Winnipesaukee

Lake Winnipesaukee is located in the Lakes Region of New Hampshire at the foothills of the White Mountains and is the largest lake in the state at 72 square miles

Lake Winnipesaukee is New Hampshire’s summertime playground where travelers come to enjoy lake life. It’s a great family-friendly destination but also works well as a trip for just adults.

Many of the top things to do in Lake Winnipesaukee are about enjoying the lake in the summer. There are lake cruises, jet-ski rentals, and plenty of beaches to relax on. But you’ll also find plenty of museums, breweries, wineries, and shops to enjoy.

Located in the heart of New Hampshire’s Lakes Region between Manchester and the White Mountains, Lake Winnipesaukee is the largest lake in New Hampshire and the third-largest lake in New England after Lake Champlain and Moosehead Lake. Surrounded by three mountain ranges, the wooded shoreline and crystal clear water of this spring-fed lake make it a popular resort and a place to rest and relax in beautiful surroundings and enjoy water sports of all sorts.

The lake is 69 square miles altogether—21 miles long (northwest-southeast) and from one to nine miles wide (northeast-southwest). It is home to at least 264 islands, half of which are less than a quarter-acre in size, and is indented by several peninsulas yielding a total shoreline of approximately 288 miles.

In short, this lake is massive. Additionally, there are some inhabited islands like Bear Island and Governors Island.

Visitors may explore the numerous villages on the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee by boat or by car. Each one offers something unique. Weirs Beach has arcades and boardwalks, waterslides, a public beach, and an activity center. Meredith is a restored mill village where you can browse through antiques, art, and craft galleries. Wolfeboro is a picture-perfect village right down to its historic Main Street. Center Harbor, Moultonborough, Tuftonboro, Alton, Gilford, and Laconia all have their special flavor. All communities have public parks and docks and feature varied activities such as fireworks displays, and band concerts throughout the year.

Related Article: The Uniqueness of the White Mountains

The Story of Lake Winnipesaukee

Many moons ago on the northern shores of this beautiful lake there lived a great chief, Wonton, renowned for his great courage in war and the beauty of this fair daughter, Mineola. She had many suitors but refused them all. One day, Adiwando, the young chief of a hostile tribe to the south hearing so much of the fair Mineola, paddled over the lake and fearlessly entered the village of his enemies. Her father happened to be away at the time and admiring Adiwando’s courage the rest of the Indians did not harm him. Before long, he and the Indian maid were desperately in love with each other.

On his return, Wonton was exceedingly wroth to find the chief of the enemy in his camp and a suitor for the hand of his daughter; so much so, that he immediately raised his tomahawk and started to kill him.

Mineola, rushing in between them, pleaded with her father for the life of her lover and finally succeeded in reconciling them. After the wedding ceremony, the whole tribe accompanied the two lovers in their canoes halfway across the lake. When they started the sky was overcast and the waters black but just as they were about to turn and leave them the sun came out and the waters sparkled around the canoe of Mineola and Adiwando.

“This is a good omen,” said Wonton, “and hereafter these waters shall be called Winnipesaukee, or The Smile of the Great Spirit.”

Things to Do in Lake Winnipesaukee

Whether you want a relaxing boat ride or the adrenaline rush of driving a jet-ski, want to peruse local handicrafts or dive into history, or want to spend the afternoon wine-tasting or enjoying an ice cream, there is something for everyone to enjoy in Lake Winnipesaukee.

Let’s run down some favorites.

Weirs Beach on Lake Winnipesaukee *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Public Boat Launches

Lake Winnipesaukee is all about boating and there are numerous places to launch a boat and cruise around Lake Winnipesaukee. Launch your boat at one of the many launch sites on the Lake. If you don’t own a boat, you can rent one, charter one, or take a cruise on one of the many excursion boats on the Lake.

Laconia’s boat rental locations include East Coast Flightcraft, Irwin Marine, North Water Marine, and Winnisquam Marine. In Gilford, there is Fay’s Boatyard, Wolfeboro is home to Goodhue Boat Company, and Alton Bay has Lakeside Boat Rentals. Located in Meredith is Melvin Village Marina. Finally, in Moultonborough, there is Trexler’s Marina.

Related Article: Everything You Need for Lake Camping

If you’d rather be closer to the water, Jet Ski rentals on Lake Winnipesaukee can be found at Wolfeboro Jet Ski Rentals, Weirs Beach Jet Ski Rentals, and numerous other places.

Wolfeboro on Lake Winnipesaukee *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Mailboat Cruise on the M/V Sophie C

Lake Winnipesaukee is home to a truly unique lake cruise: the M/V Sophie C, an actual working mailboat and the “oldest floating post office in the country”. The boat travels from Weirs Beach to the islands of Lake Winnipesaukee delivering mail to their residents. And passengers can join for the ride.

On a cruise, you’ll visit a handful of islands and drop off and pick up the mail. Passengers can also fill out postcards, write letters, and mail them with a collectible stamp during the cruise.

This cruise is one of the most unique activities in New Hampshire.

The Mailboat Cruise costs $40 a person and lasts two hours. It only runs during the summer months.

Boarding M/S Washington for Scenic Lake Winnipesaukee Tour *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Narrated Scenic Tours on the M/S Mount Washington

With daily departures from Weirs Beach and departures from Wolfeboro and Alton Bay on select days, it’s easy to fit a cruise on “the Mount” into your travel plans.

The 2½ hour cruise costs $42 (+$3.50 fuel surcharge).

Other available cruises offered by Mount Washington Cruises include:

Sunset Dinner Cruise on the M/S Mount Washington
Sunday Brunch Cruise on the M/S Mount Washington
Summer Cocktail Cruise on the M/S Winnipesaukee Spirit

Castle in the Clouds *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Visit Castle in the Clouds

Castle in the Clouds is a 1913 mountaintop mansion in Moultonborough and one of Lake Winnipesaukee’s most popular attractions. It’s a great example of Arts and Crafts architecture in New England and has an aesthetic of living in harmony with nature. The mansion has 16 rooms and modern amenities for its time. It’s a beautiful house with gorgeous views of Lake Winnipesaukee from above.

Lake Winnipesaukee from Castle in the Clouds *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

And it’s way more than just a historic home to visit. There are over 5,000 acres of land with stunning views of Lake Winnipesaukee and the Ossipee Mountains, miles of hiking, and even an on-site restaurant. The estate also hosts weddings and other private events.

Related Article: 4 Epic Places to Watch the Leaves Change

Self-guided tours of the mansion cost $20 for adults, $10 for children ages 5 to 17, and $15 for seniors ages 65+. Visitors can tour the first and second floors of the mansion.

Guided tours of the basement cost $25 per person and include self-guided tours of floors 1 and 2. The basement tour shows guests where the servants lived who ran the mansion and they had the most interesting stories of all.

Note: Trolleys are the only means of access to the mansion. Trolleys depart the Carriage House every 15 minutes until 4:15 pm.

The Old Country Store in Moultonborough

The Old Country Store in Moultonborough is one of the oldest continuously operated stores in the United States and has been in business since 1781. In addition to selling goods to the community, it’s served as a hub for town meetings, a library, and a post office.

Today, the iconic yellow building serves as a vintage shopping experience for travelers in the area. You can find locally made goods, antiques, and unusual souvenirs. They even have penny candy (not quite a penny a piece anymore, but still quite reasonable prices).

The Old Country Store is around the corner from Castle in the Clouds and makes a nice stop for after your visit.

Loon Center *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Loon Preservation Center and Marcus Wildlife Sanctuary

The Frederick and Paula Anna Markus Wildlife Sanctuary is comprised of 200 acres of upland forests, marshes, ponds, clear-running streams, and over 5,000 feet of pristine shoreline on Lake Winnipesaukee, one of the largest remaining areas of natural shoreline on the lake. These diverse habitats make this sanctuary home to a wide host of plant and animal species. Two walking trails wind their way through the Sanctuary.

Loon Center on Lake Winnipesaukee *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

The Loon Center, located on the north shore of Lake Winnipesaukee on the Markus Wildlife Sanctuary in Moultonborough was built as the new headquarters of the Loon Preservation Committee in 1993. In addition to staff offices, public meeting rooms, and a research laboratory, the Loon Center houses exhibits, displays, and the Loon’s Feather Gift Shop. The interpretive exhibits, presentations, and nature trails give over 10,000 yearly visitors an introduction to the natural environment of New Hampshire and promote a greater understanding of loons and the natural world.

For most people, the call of the loon is their first introduction to the species. Loon calls have a distinct, haunting quality that has enchanted humans for centuries. In popular culture, these calls have become a symbol of the wilderness. Loons are most vocal from mid-May to mid-June. They have four main calls which they use to communicate with their families and other loons. Each call has a distinct meaning and serves a unique function.

Best Time to Visit Lake Winnipesaukee

The best time to visit Lake Winnipesaukee is in the summer months from June through August. This is when the lake is busiest and at its most expensive but when else can you swim, relax on the beach, and go boating underneath the bright sunshine?

The busiest time of year is mid-June when bikers from around the country descend on the lake for Laconia Motorcycle Week. This can be a fun time to visit the lake but know that it will be very crowded with lots of motorcycles roaring.

Fall can be another wonderful time to visit Lake Winnipesaukee with beautiful fall foliage surrounding the lake. And we enjoyed visiting Lake Winnipesaukee in late-September, a warm yet uncrowded time as most kids are back in school.

Winter is a very different trip, but hey, there’s a reason why Lake Winnipesaukee is a favorite New England winter getaways. Lake Winnipesaukee is an ice fishing mecca with competitions taking place in February. This can be a great time to enjoy bargain-basement accommodation rates—with a side of ice skating. There is also a sled dog race held in February.

Lake Winnipesaukee Stats

Elevation: 504 feet above sea level

Maximum depth: 180 feet

Average depth: 43 feet

Volume: 625 billion gallons

Length: Approximately 25 miles

Width: Approximately 15 miles at widest point

Water Surface: 72 square miles

Distance around the lake: 182 miles

Shoreline excluding islands: 178 miles

Islands: 244

Island shoreline: 100½ miles

Worth Pondering…

How still it is here in the woods. The trees
Stand motionless, as if they did not dare
To stir, lest it should break the spell. The air
Hangs quiet as spaces in a marble frieze.
Even this little brook, that runs at ease,
Whispering and gurgling in its knotted bed,
Seems but to deepen with its curling thread
Of sound the shadowy sun-pierced silences.

—Archibald Lampman (1861-1899)

The Best Stops for a Summer Road Trip

Whether you park for ten minutes or ten days, what destinations do you pull off the highway for?

At some point, everyone starts to think about their dream road trip. For some, it’s a jaunt to the Grand Canyon or touring the Mighty Five in a decked-out RV. For others, it’s traveling Historic Route 66 or the Blue Ridge Parkway. No matter the destination, though, everyone needs to make stops on the way. What are some of your favorites?

For my purpose, a stop is anything from a national park to a state park or a roadside attraction to a Texas BBQ joint. Anything that gets you to pull off the highway, turn off your engine, and stretch your legs a bit—whether it’s to hike a mountain trail or tour a living history museum is up to you.

My vote for the perfect road trip stop is multifaceted and an ongoing list as I travel to new places and explore America’s scenic wonders.

Roswell UFO Museum *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

International UFO Museum, Roswell, New Mexico

The International UFO Museum and Research Center at Roswell is the focal point of the industry that has built up around The Roswell Incident, an event that took place nearby in July 1947. What’s beyond question is that something crashed. This could have been a UFO or a military project, either way, there appears to have been some kind of cover-up. The wealth of testimonies, photographs, and other exhibits leaves you in no doubt as to what they believe here.

Believers and skeptics alike are invited to celebrate the 73^rd anniversary of the famous “Roswell Incident.” Mix and mingle with UFO and space enthusiasts at the Roswell UFO Festival (July 1-3, 2022) while enjoying live entertainment, family-friendly activities, guest speakers, authors, costume contests, and maybe even an alien abduction.

Jekyll Island Club *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Jekyll Island Club National Historic Landmark District, Jekyll Island, Georgia

The Jekyll Island Club was called “the richest, most inaccessible club in the world” by Munsey’s Magazine. The Club House is now the Jekyll Island Club Hotel and the hotel and 33 other historic structures on 240 acres have been designated by the National Park Service as a Historic Landmark District. Even if you don’t stay at the hotel, you can visit the museum and take a historic tour, plus visit the Georgia Sea Turtle Center.

Jekyll Island *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Located near Brunswick, Jekyll Island is one of the barrier islands designated as part of the Golden Isles. In addition to the historic district, recreation opportunities abound golf, biking, birding, fishing, swimming, and more. Other hotels as well as a campground with primitive and RV sites provide accommodations.

Bryce Canyon from Rim Trail *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Bryce Point, Rim Trail, Bryce Canyon, Utah

The views over Bryce Canyon are spectacular from any of the park’s 14 viewing points but Bryce Point, the last stop on the shuttle route allows you to appreciate the full scale of this natural wonder. Stand at the viewing point and the sheer breadth of colors of the hoodoos from snow white through pale rusty to brilliant orange is amazing. Bryce Point is also the starting point of the Rim Trail, a relatively easy hike that offers outstanding views of the hoodoos from above.

Bryce Canyon from the Rim Trail *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

The Rim Trail passes by all the viewing points served by the shuttle (Bryce, Inspiration, Sunset, and Sunrise Points) so you can hike as much or as little of the rim as you like. Drop your car off at the shuttle parking area opposite the visitor center.

Newport Mansions, Newport, Rhode Island

Newport, Rhode Island is where America’s wealthiest families chose to build their summer “cottages” in the late 19th century. Today, known collectively as the Newport Mansions and managed by The Preservation Society of Newport County, these lavish properties offer a rare insight into the Gilded Age of American history. The Breakers, a 70-room Italian Renaissance-style palazzo, is the largest and most opulent of them all and was owned by railroad tycoon Cornelius Vanderbilt II.

Mount St. Helens from Hoffstadt Bluffs *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Hoffstadt Bluffs Visitor Center, Toutle, Washington

If, like most people, you approach Mount St Helens by the northern route SR 504, the Spirit Lake Memorial Highway. Hoffstadt Bluffs Visitor Center provides one of the best panoramic views along the way. As well as looking left towards the volcano, look down into the valley and you may be lucky enough to spot members of the elk herd that has moved into the mudflow area of the Toutle River Valley. Facilities available at the center include restaurant and helicopter tours.

Powerhouse Visitor Center *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Powerhouse Visitor Center, Kingman, Arizona

As its name implies, this 1907 building was once the source of electrical power for the city of Kingman and remained so until 1938 when the Hoover Dam was constructed. It was such an eyesore by the 1980s that the city considered demolishing the building but fortunately, it was saved, restored, and in 1997 reopened as the Powerhouse Visitor Center. Today it is also home to the excellent Historic Route 66 Museum which tells the story of the highway from its earliest years through the 50s and 60s.

Trapp Family Lodge, Stowe, Vermont

Fans of “The Sound of Music” will love visiting the Trapp Family Lodge in Stowe, Vermont. Take one of the daily Von Trapp Family History tours. Pictures of the family and its history are also hung in public areas. For resort guests, there are a variety of activities for all seasons, tours, and food choices.

A variety of accommodations are available. History tours are $10 for adult guests, $5 for children, and $15 for adult day visitors. Services are available in nearby Stowe.

Sylvan Lake *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Sylvan Lake, Custer State Park, South Dakota

This beautiful—and extremely photogenic—the lake was created in 1881 when Theodore Reder built a dam across Sunday Gulch. Described as the “crown jewel” of Custer State Park, Sylvan Lake offers a swimming beach and boat rentals and there’s a wonderful loop trail that leads between the rock formations that make this such a distinctive site.

The Sylvan Lake campground is open from late May to the end of September (not suitable for large RVs). The upscale Sylvan Lake Lodge, built-in 1937, is also nearby.

Mount Washington Cog Railway *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Mount Washington Cog Railway, Mount Washington, New Hampshire

At 6,288.2 feet, Mt. Washington is the highest peak in New Hampshire. Ride in style to the summit on a historic cog railway that has been operating since 1869. Grades average 25 percent! Keep your eye out for hikers on the Appalachian Trail, which crosses the line about three-quarters of the way up. Enjoy far-reaching panoramic views at the summit on the Observatory deck on a nice day. The visitor center has snacks, restrooms, and a post office. And, don’t miss the Mt Washington Weather Museum.

Perrine Bridge and Snake River *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Perrine Bridge, Twin Falls, Idaho

The Perrine Bridge spans the majestic Snake River Canyon on the northern edge of Twin Falls. The bridge is 486 feet above the river and 1,500 feet long and offers pedestrian walkways with views of the river, lakes, and waterfalls. BASE jumpers can enjoy the Perrine Bridge year-round as the launching point for parachuting to the canyon floor below.

Snake River from Perrine Bridge *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Located on the south side of the bridge is a large parking area (RV friendly) with the Twin Falls Visitor Center and access to the canyon rim trails leading to the bridge. To the east of the bridge along the south rim of the canyon the dirt ramp used by Evel Knievel when he unsuccessfully attempted to jump the canyon on his steam-powered “skycycle” in 1974 is still visible.

Mitchell Corn Palace *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Corn Palace, Mitchell, South Dakota

Certainly one of the most famous roadsides stops out there, the Corn Palace is a great place to take a short break from the road while traveling across the prairie. Located a few miles off I-90 in Mitchell, South Dakota, The Corn Palace is a big building that’s covered in the corn! Each year, artists design murals that are created using nothing but locally grown corn. Inside the building is a small museum showing the site’s history dating back to 1892 and pictures of the murals from previous years, a basketball arena, and a gift shop.

Colonial Williamsburg *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia

Williamsburg was once the capital of Virginia, the largest and most influential colony in the budding republic. The restored version of Colonial Williamsburg has provided the public with a detailed, vibrant re-creation of this city with the opportunity to travel back in time amid 88 rebuilt homes, taverns, restaurants, and shops.

Experience the grandeur of royal authority in Virginia just before its collapse in the Revolution. The Governor’s Palace, home to seven royal governors and the first two elected governors in Virginia, was built to impress visitors with a display of authority and wealth.

Historic Jamestowne *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Colonial Williamsburg is part of the Historic Triangle, which also includes Jamestown and Yorktown. Each of these sites has its unique features and historical significance.

Lake Winnepesaukee Cruise *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Lake Winnipesaukee cruises, Laconia, New Hampshire

Take a narrated day cruise on New Hampshire’s largest lake, Lake Winnepesaukee. The M/S Mount Washington holds over 1200 passengers and has several ports of call. Dinner cruises are offered in the evenings plus Sunday brunch and specialty cruises. Or, ride along on the M/V Sophie C, the only U.S. Mailboat on an inland waterway, as it delivers mail to five islands.

The season begins near the end of May and runs through most of October.

Hole N’ the Rock *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Hole N’ the Rock, Moab Utah

Located 12 miles South of Moab on Highway 191, ‘Hole N’ the Rock’ is a unique home and Trading post carved into a huge Rock. Take a tour through the 5,000-square-foot home with 14 rooms. Have a wander around the Gift store and keep the kids happy with a visit to the Petting Zoo and an ice cream from the General Store.

Gilroy *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Gilroy, California

If you don’t already know that Gilroy is dubbed the Garlic Capital of the World, your nose might tell you as you approach the town. So will your eyes as you see not only plenty of garlic fields and numerous shops selling garlic and other produce, and garlic-related items such as garlic-flavored chocolate and garlic-flavored ice cream. The city also holds a garlic festival every year that has drawn worldwide attention. The Garlic Festival is held in late July each year (42^nd annual, July 22-24, 2022). Some of the most interesting and longest-established garlic shops are located on Highway 101 on the outskirts of town.

Corning Museum of Glass *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Corning Museum of Glass, Corning, New York

The museum is just about all that remains of the original Owens-Corning Glass Factory in Corning. All but a few commercial products are now made in other parts of the world. The museum houses a fabulous collection of rare glass artifacts, a modern art/glass gallery, and several demonstration areas where visitors can watch glass being blown, heated, and worked into practical or artistic shapes. There is even an area where you can make your glass pieces.

A reasonable entrance fee covers two days which you might need to see everything. A cafe is on the premises to accommodate lunch guests. There is a massive gift shop, too, so you can purchase just about anything made in glass.

Wall Drug *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Wall Drug Store, Wall, South Dakota

Love it or loathe it, you can’t ignore Wall Drug, not least because of the dozens of signs that announce its existence from miles away. The original signs were erected back in 1936 as owners Ted and Dorothy Hustead used the offer of cheap coffee and free ice water to tempt travelers to their drug store in the small town of Wall.

Today, the store is so tacky it’s brilliant with dozens of specialty stores and a collection of novelty items from fiberglass dinosaurs to animations that can be activated for a quarter. It’s not subtle but makes no pretense to be. Yes, they do still offer free ice water and coffee at 5 cents a cup.

Castle in the Clouds, Moultonborough, New Hampshire

Completed in 1914 as the estate of shoe tycoon Thomas Plant, Lucknow Estate, as it was called, is considered a prime example of Arts and Crafts architecture. Opened to the public in 1959, Castle in the Clouds is now a museum that preserves the opulent lifestyle of the period.

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Santa Fe is known as the City Different and within one visit you will know why. Santa Fe embodies a rich history of melding Hispanic, Anglo, and Native American cultures whose influences are apparent in everything from the architecture, the food, and the art. Santa Fe has more than 250 galleries and has been rated the second largest art market in the country, after New York City. Canyon Road is a historic pathway into the mountains and an old neighborhood that has become the city’s center for art with the highest concentration of galleries.

Palace of the Governors *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Downtown Santa Fe’s Palace of the Governors on the plaza is one of the most iconic sites in the city. The oldest continuously inhabited building in the United States, it’s perhaps best known for the Native American market beneath its portal.

Loretto Chapel *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

The visitor is drawn to Loretto Chapel to see the spiral staircase that leads to the choir loft. The staircase—with two 360-degree turns, no visible means of support, and without the benefit of nails—has been called the Miraculous Staircase.

Worth Pondering…

Afoot and light-hearted I take to the open road,

Healthy, free, the world before me,

The long brown trail before me leading wherever I choose.

—Walt Whitman

The Uniqueness of the White Mountains

General stores, snowy peaks, and tons of maple syrup to pour on award-winning pancakes

State nicknames say a lot about a place and when it comes to New England, nature reigns supreme. Maine is the Pine Tree State, Massachusetts is the Bay State, Vermont is the Green Mountain State. Although New Hampshire’s is known as the Granite State, a lesser-known but equally as important moniker is the White Mountain State. The latter speaks to its arguably most visit-worthy area.

The White Mountains—home to Mount Washington, the tallest peak in the Northeast—offers up the staples that travelers come to New England for: general stores, maple syrup, rolling landscapes.

Head to Mount Washington for a scenic ride aboard a legendary cog railway followed by general store hopping to stock up on local cheese, fudge, and booze. Whatever you choose to do during your time in the White Mountains, you’ll always be surrounded by glorious peaks that give the region its name.

Hot tip: New Hampshire has no sales tax, so stop at the various NH Liquor and Wine Outlets hugging the highway. When in New Hampshire!

Ride up Mount Washington

Sure, seeing the mountain with the tallest peak in the Northeast is cool, but stepping foot on it? Bragging rights granted.

Mount Washington is one of 13 mountains that makes up the Presidential Range with more than half its peaks named after US presidents. Being the tallest of them all, Mount Washington is equipped with a cog railway built in 1868 that brings passengers up the mountain. While the summit isn’t reachable in the winter due to weather conditions, a train can get you to Waumbek Station, located at an elevation of 4,000 feet (about two-thirds up the way).

If you prefer to drive, Marshfield Station is a fully accessible stop that stays open to visitors all year round, situated at an elevation of 2,700 feet. You’ll still get some pretty snappable views, plus you can pop into the Cog Railway Museum for a quick history lesson and refreshing bevvy.

From the opposite (Pinkham Notch) side of the mountain, you can drive up the six-and-a-quarter-mile-long Mount Washington Auto Road or ride a van operated from Great Glen Trails. Climbers have the choice of several trails but should be aware of the mountain’s unpredictable and sudden weather changes.

Nothing feels better than getting to the entrance of a general store knowing that on the other side, shelves of jarred jams, homemade fudge, maple sweets, and every trinket you could imagine await you. That’s exactly what you’ll get at Zeb’s General Store in North Conway where maple syrup greets you at the door.

Speaking of maple syrup, Fadden’s General Store and Maple Warehouse in North Woodstock makes the good stuff in their very own backyard. Harman’s Cheese & Country Store in Sugar Hill produces their own cheese including their famous “really-aged cheddar” that, as the name suggests, has been aged for a really long time: more than two years. Locals eat this stuff up.

And remember, no *clap* sales *clap* tax.

White Mountains © *Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Eat award-winning pancakes, syrup, and other goodies. The syrup talk is not over, my friends (it never is when you’re in New Hampshire), especially when there’s still pancakes to discuss—and in the White Mountains, that means Polly’s Pancake Parlor in Sugar Hill. This spot isn’t just good: Polly’s won a James Beard Foundation Award in 2006. Go big with a fluffy stack of pancakes drizzled in maple syrup and don’t forget a dollop of their homemade maple spread.

Another place to get your breakfast fix: Benton’s Sugar Shack in Thornton which serves the perfect plate of face-sized pancakes and crispy bacon alongside their homemade maple syrup (so you can buy your syrup and eat it, too).

Mount Washington Resort © *Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Switching forms of sugar, the next stop is Chutters in Littleton, home to the world’s longest candy counter of 112 feet with over 500 varieties to choose from.

And, if you’re making your way to Lincoln, pop by Moon Café & Bakery for some of their warm, gooey brownies that pair perfectly with a cup of hot cocoa.

While the Omni Mount Washington Hotel in Bretton Woods is tucked away from the main drag, it’s almost impossible to miss it with Mount Washington hovering over like a halo. Once you walk into the lobby, you’re transported back to 1902 when the hotel first opened. It’s even rumored that the owner’s wife, Carolyn, still lives in the hotel (don’t worry, a friendly tenant), and ghost aficionados jump at the opportunity to book her old quarters in Room 314.

For unwinding, there are two heated pools (one indoor, one outdoor), hot tubs, a spa, and outdoor fire pits for s’more-making. Grab dinner at the Main Dining Room which underwent renovations last year. And when you’re starting to itch for adventure again, you can book an onsite activity like a canopy zip line.

Seventy miles south of Bretton Woods, Castle in the Clouds is home to Lucknow, an Arts and Crafts-style 16-room mansion built in the Ossipee Mountains in 1914. The 135-acre estate provides one of the most stunning views of Lake Winnipesauke, surrounding mountains, and over 5,500 acres of conserved land.

Enjoy self-guided tours of the mansion and guided tours of its basement. The on-site Carriage House offers dining in its highly-acclaimed restaurant in vintage horse stalls and amidst panoramic lakeside views on the terrace. You can also spend time walking or hiking along 28 miles of trail managed by the Lakes Region Conservation Trust taking in the beauty while weaving along brooks and streams and exploring seven different waterfalls. For those that prefer horseback, Riding in the Clouds offers trail rides, carriage rides, and pony rides.

Lake Winnipesaukee Cruise © *Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

The largest lake in New Hampshire, Lake Winnipesaukee is the focal point of New Hampshire’s Lakes Region which also includes nearby—and far less developed—Squam Lake and Newfound Lake. Winnipesaukee is a beehive of summer activity surrounded by water parks, beaches, fast food, and family-oriented attractions.

Weirs Beach © *Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

The west side of the lake is the most developed especially around kid-friendly Weirs Beach and more trendy Meredith while the eastern resort town of Wolfeboro is quieter. Water sports are abundant with sailboats, kayaks, and motorboats vying for water space with the historic cruise boat, M/S Mount Washington.

The Loon Center and Markus Wildlife Sanctuary in Moultonborough protects breeding waters of these treasured birds and offers visitors a chance to learn about them. Nature and wildlife is also the focus of Squam Lakes Natural Science Center which operates nature cruises on this well-protected lake that was the setting for On Golden Pond.

Worth Pondering…

I go to nature to be soothed and healed, and to have my senses put in order.

—John Burroughs