Author: Mira Jin

California calls to backpackers like no other state. From crashing ocean waves to snow-capped peaks, this golden state offers more variety than anywhere else in America. The coastline stretches for hundreds of miles with rugged cliffs and hidden beaches. Desert landscapes show off colorful rock formations and endless skies. Mountain ranges reach high into the clouds with crystal-clear lakes tucked between granite walls. As an outdoor writer with over 10 years of California backpacking experience, I’ve hiked these trails and camped in these wild places. This guide gives you the top 10 backpacking spots that showcase California’s best. Each location…

Thinking about booking the Keys to the Kingdom Tour? You’re probably wondering if it’s worth the $129 to $149 price tag. That’s a lot of money for something Disney doesn’t fully explain. I’ve taken this tour twice and spoken with dozens of guests about their experiences. This guide will give you the unfiltered truth about what you’re paying for versus what Disney’s marketing suggests. Here’s what Disney markets: a magical behind-the-scenes experience. The reality? It’s a 5-hour history lesson with lots of walking and limited attraction access. You’ll spend most time standing and listening, not riding rides or seeing spectacular…

Dublin, Ohio, offers visitors a perfect mix of natural beauty and fun activities. This charming city sits just northwest of Columbus and provides something special for everyone who visits. From waterfalls to art pieces, Dublin creates memories that last a lifetime. Families love the safe, clean spaces and easy access to both outdoor fun and indoor activities. The city combines Irish culture with modern attractions in surprising ways. As a travel expert exploring Ohio’s destinations, I can tell you that Dublin stands out. The city offers quality attractions without big crowds. Local leaders have created spaces where visitors feel welcome…

Have you ever wanted to test your limits on one of New England’s toughest hikes? As a certified mountain guide with 15 years of White Mountain experience, I’ve helped hundreds of hikers safely complete the Presidential Traverse. This epic trek takes you across seven peaks named after U.S. Presidents in New Hampshire’s White Mountain National Forest. The traverse covers 19-23 miles of rocky, challenging terrain. You’ll climb 13 mountains total, with 9 peaks reaching above 4,000 feet. The total climb adds up to over 9,000 feet of elevation gain. This hike isn’t for beginners. It demands strong fitness, mountain experience,…

As a Bay Area hiking expert with over 200 Mission Peak summits, I’ve guided countless hikers to this 2,520-foot peak safely. This famous trail attracts over 300,000 visitors yearly who come for the iconic pole photo and panoramic views. After years of testing different routes and gear combinations, I’ve learned what works and what doesn’t. This comprehensive guide shares proven strategies from my extensive field experience and feedback from thousands of hikers I’ve helped. If you’re planning the Mission Peak hike, this expert-tested information will help you succeed. You’ll learn the best starting points, essential gear, timing tips, and safety…

Taking your little one on their first national park trip creates special memories that last forever. As a family travel expert who has visited over 25 national parks with young children, I know which parks work best for toddlers. National parks offer safe spaces for children to run around, see animals, and learn about nature. After testing dozens of trails and activities with families, I’ve found the parks that truly work for ages 2-4. This guide shares proven strategies from real family trips. You’ll get practical tips from parents who’ve successfully visited these parks with toddlers. Get ready to plan…

Swimming with sharks at Disney World isn’t just a dream it’s reality at EPCOT’s DiveQuest program. As a certified dive instructor with 15 years of experience reviewing theme park attractions, I can confirm this is the world’s only scuba diving experience inside a Disney park. DiveQuest returns May 1, 2025, offering certified divers 40 minutes underwater in a 5.7-million-gallon aquarium. You’ll swim alongside sea turtles, rays, and reef sharks in crystal-clear Caribbean-style waters. Disney’s safety record and professional equipment make this suitable for Open Water certified divers aged 10 and up. Booking & Tour Information Getting a spot in DiveQuest…

When I joined the Wild Africa Trek at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, I did not expect to feel so connected to the wildlife. Our small group crossed rope bridges with hippos below, rode through open savannas in safari trucks, and stood just steps from giraffes as they grazed . A guide shared interesting facts about each animal, making every stop memorable. Midway through, we paused at a quiet overlook to enjoy African-inspired snacks while watching elephants in the distance. The complimentary photos were a great keepsake, but the real highlight was seeing the park from hidden paths and private viewing spots…

Have you ever wanted to stand on a mountain and see the world below? Mount Pierce in New Hampshire’s White Mountains offers that view. We have climbed over 30 peaks in the Presidential Range. This 4,310-foot summit gives some of the best scenery in the area. Our guide comes from many climbs in different seasons. We also researched with local hiking groups. The trail follows the historic Crawford Path, built in 1819. It is America’s oldest maintained hiking trail. Mount Pierce is good for beginners who are prepared. It also suits experienced hikers seeking a rewarding day trip. The summit…

As a Disney theme park expert who has visited Disneyland Resort over 200 times in the past decade, I can tell you that this destination offers much more than gentle family rides. My extensive experience testing every major attraction has shown me which rides truly deliver heart-pounding excitement. After countless hours analyzing wait times, ride mechanics, and guest reactions, I’ve identified the eight most thrilling experiences at both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure. This ranking comes from real visits during different seasons and crowd levels. My goal is to help you make the most of your limited park time…