Author: Mira Jin

If you’re looking for one of the most rewarding hikes in the Grand Teton area, the Table Rock hike should be at the top of your list. This trail sits on the Idaho side of the Tetons, starting from the small town of Driggs. The numbers tell an important story: 13 miles round trip, 4,156 feet of elevation gain, and views that will take your breath away. From the summit, you’ll see Grand Teton, Mount Owen, and countless other peaks spread out before you. Plan your trip between July and September when the trail is most accessible. This hike demands…

More people want to camp without spending thousands of dollars on a store-bought RV. Building your own camping trailer lets you save money while creating something that fits your exact needs. You can design it the way you want and feel good about making it yourself. This guide shares practical diy camping trailer ideas that work for different skill levels. Some projects are simple enough for beginners. Others need more time and experience. You’ll find options for small budgets and bigger builds. Each idea includes what materials you need and who it works best for. Getting started might seem hard,…

You’ve finally made it to Zion National Park, only to find out that Angels Landing permits are sold out for the next month. The Narrows? Packed shoulder to shoulder with hundreds of hikers splashing through the same water. Sound familiar? Here’s the good news: Zion offers dozens of incredible trails that most visitors never consider. These alternative hikes deliver stunning red rock scenery, peaceful solitude, and unique features you won’t find on the famous routes. This guide covers the best hikes in Zion National Park that go beyond the typical bucket list. You’ll find options for every skill level, from…

California has some of the most beautiful cities in America, and I want to help you find the perfect ones to visit. From sunny beach towns to charming mountain escapes, there’s something here for everyone. I’ve put together this list of 11 beautiful California cities after looking at what real travelers love and what locals recommend. No fluff, just honest picks that are actually worth your time. I’ll tell you what makes each place special so you can figure out which ones match what you’re looking for. Maybe you want ocean views, or you’re more into historic streets and good…

Want to see Mount Baker from its best angles? I’ve got you covered. This list breaks down my top 9 favorite hikes in the area. I’ve hiked these trails more times than I can count, and I know which ones are actually worth the drive. You’ll find out what makes each one special, how hard they really are, and what you need to know before you go. I’m not trying to sell you anything here. These are just honest recommendations from someone who loves these mountains and wants you to have a great time out there. Some hikes are tough,…

Old Rag Mountain is one of Virginia’s most popular hiking spots. Thousands of people visit this trail every year to test their skills on the famous rock scramble. But before you head out, you need to know one important thing: how long does it take to hike Old Rag? Most hikers complete the full loop in 6 to 8 hours. This isn’t your typical walk in the woods. You’ll climb steep trails, scramble over giant boulders, and push your body to its limits. In this guide, you’ll learn what affects your hiking time, how each section of the trail works,…

Standing at the edge of West Virginia’s most famous canyon feels like stepping into another world. The New River Gorge offers some of the most beautiful views you’ll find anywhere in the eastern United States, with dramatic cliffs, a winding river, and one of the longest steel arch bridges in the world. If you’re planning a trip to this national park, you’ll want to know which viewpoints give you the best experience. Each new river gorge overlook offers something different, from close-up bridge views to sweeping canyon scenes. This guide covers the top viewpoints you can visit, what makes each…

In this blog, we know more about Yellowstone Lake. The lake covers 136 square miles in Yellowstone National Park. It’s clear waters and mountain views attract millions of visitors every year. Many wonder if it is safe to swim in the lake. Swimming is allowed. But the lake presents serious challenges. The water stays very cold all year. Even in summer, temperatures can be near freezing. Sudden weather changes can make conditions dangerous. Strong winds and waves appear quickly. Visitors should know what to expect. Only experienced swimmers or those with proper gear should enter the water. Staying close to…

Standing beneath Yosemite’s granite cliffs with waterfalls around you shows why this park is so special. With over 15 years of guiding hikers here, I’ve walked every major trail and seen people fall in love with the mountains. This guide lists the best Yosemite hikes by difficulty, moderate, and hard, so you can pick trails that match your fitness and schedule. From short, family-friendly valley walks to challenging climbs, each trail offers unique views. Top hikes include Half Dome, Mist Trail, Glacier Point, and Cathedral Lakes, combining breathtaking scenery with experiences that stay in your memory long after leaving the…

Standing at Glen Pass with crystal-clear alpine lakes spread below me, I knew the Rae Lakes Loop had earned its reputation. As a certified wilderness guide with over 15 years of hiking in California’s High Sierra, I’ve completed this trail three times. The Rae Lakes Loop ranks among California’s top backpacking trips. This 40-mile circle offers granite peaks, pristine lakes, and alpine meadows that showcase the Sierra Nevada at its best. You’ll get my honest trail review, practical planning advice, and insider tips from real experience. This guide shares everything from permit strategies to gear lessons learned on the trail.…