Kelly Park

The first mile is flat and deceivingly easy as you walk under a highway bridge and in between looming canyon walls. But don't get too comfortable -- at around the 1.5 mile mark you will reach the first of eight ropes along the trail and the challenge begins. You will need to use these ropes to maneuver down large rocks and boulders. There are arrows spray painted on the walls to help with di...

This modern campground is just steps from the beach and centrally located on the Arizona / Utah border -- perfect for exploring both sides of the Glen Canyon National Recreational Area. You do need a national parks pass or will incure a $25 fee to enter the park (good for one week).  The campground is large but does fill up quickly -- even on weekdays and in the cooler months -- so be sure to m...

Sherando Lake is a beautifully maintained dog/family friendly campground situated between two lakes. Upper Sherando Lake is available for fishing only but the larger, 25 acre, Lower Sherando Lake offers swimming, fishing, kayaking, and relaxing on the beach.  The campground is divided into three loops -- one with electric hookups, one with non electric (reservable) campsites, and one with walk ...

Wolf Gap is a FREE year round campground located just outside of Woodstock, VA. It is a great base camp for several scenic hikes like the Tibbet Knob trail (trailhead is just across the road) and the popular Big Schloss trail (trailhead begins at campsite number 9) -- super convenient if you have a mixed group of active people and those who just like to hang out at camp.The nine spacious drive...

Park for free at Wolf Gap Campground and cross the road where you will pass some picnic tables and campsites.  Follow the signs to the the yellow blazed Tibbet Knob trail.  In half a mile, there is a little path to a summit on your left where you can catch a glimpse of Mill Mountain and Big Schloss. Continue uphill for another half mile and you will reach a steep rock which will require some sc...

The Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park is just a short 15 minute drive from downtown La Fortuna. Shuttles are available for $18-25 or you can find a tour that includes transportation, admission, and a tour guide (about $60). General admission is $24 for a self guided tour.This easy hike is only 1.9 miles long and consists of 16 bridges, 6 of which are hanging bridges. The longer bridges can...

If camping on a postcard perfect tropical island is on your bucket list, Flamenco Beach is a must.  Take the ferry from the port in Fajardo (40 min drive from San Juan Airport) to Culebra Island.  The cost is $2.25 each way and takes about one hour.  The ferries depart at 9:00 am, 3:00 pm, and 5:00 pm daily.  Make sure you purchase your tickets in advance as they book up quickly (priority goes ...

Vieques Island is a pleasant one hour ferry ride from Fajardo, Puerto Rico (and budget friendly at only $4 round trip!) Upon arrival at the ferry port in Vieques, hop on one of the waiting cabs and ask for a ride to Sun Bay ($3 per person). You can also arrange for the same cab driver to pick you up at a set date/time ($5 per person for return trip).At Sun Bay Beach, check in at the office ($...

This beautiful alpine lake is often compared to the famous Lake Louise in Alberta, Canada and is an absolute must if you are in the Dolomites region.  Lago di Braies is the largest natural lake in the Dolomites and depending on the light, its crystal clear waters can be seen in shades of blue, green, turquoise, and emerald.Park at the designated parking lot (5-6 euro per car) and walk across th...

This hike starts with an immediate stream crossing -- how wet your feet get depends on the water level but bring an extra pair of socks! The first mile consists of a typical Shenandoah hike -- uphill on a dirt path and along a stream. But soon you reach the base of Little Devil Stairs. This portion includes scrambling rocks, several stream crossings, and tons of fun as you literally climb up...

Rose River Falls is often overshadowed by it's more popular cousin, Dark Hollow Falls, as both hikes begin at the same trail head. But because Dark Hollow Falls is such a short and well known hike, it can get extremely crowded. It is also one of the few trails in Shenandoah where dogs are not allowed. Meanwhile, Rose River Falls offers more solitude and is incredibly dog friendly -- with tons...