With opportunities to explore some of the nation’s most beautiful national parks, view incredible wildlife, and see some of the coolest and most unique natural features, driving your own car or taking a rental gives you plenty of chances to experience new places.

Dawn Outdoors Contributor Kassidy lived in Washington for six months. She spent nearly every weekend out exploring so she has visited almost all of these places! In this post, she will share her favorites so you can plan your own road trip through Washington.

This list of the best Washington road trips includes:

• 9 Washington road trip ideas from all over the state
• The best time to visit Washington: What months are best?
• How many days do you need for a Washington road trip?
• Tips for road trips in Washington including info on driving, cell phones, hotel booking, and more.

This is a sensitive wilderness area. Learn how to Leave No Trace to keep the wilderness wild. Make sure you are prepared by bringing the 10 Essentials. Get ready for adventure with this checklist of things to do before every hike.

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support. -Taryn

Best Washington Road Trip Ideas

1. Olympic Peninsula

Starting Point: Seattle

Time Needed: 7+ days

As one of the most diverse areas of Washington, taking a road trip around the Olympic Peninsula will have you feeling like you’ve been transported from one state to another.

Olympic National Park makes up the peninsula that sits in the far northwestern corner of Washington. It’s home to the only temperate rainforest in the United States, endless miles of ocean coastline, and a snow-capped mountain range.

With parks of the park at sea level and others high up in the mountains, the best time to visit Olympic National Park is… year-round. (The season will influence which part of the park you can visit.)

Starting in Seattle, loop down towards Olympia and begin to make your way up towards Port Angeles. This is where you’ll really start to get into the park.

Start your visit to the Olympic Peninsula at Hurricane Ridge, where you can enjoy views of the Olympic Mountain Range. The Hurricane Hill hike leaves from the visitor center and is a paved trail that leads to a phenomenal viewpoint.

Next, spend some time by Lake Crescent, and if you’re brave enough, make the tough climb to Mount Storm King. I love packing up a hiking lunch and enjoying it at the top of Mount Storm King. Then visit Sol Duc Falls and the Sol Duc Hot Springs for a relaxing evening.

On your next day, stop into the small town of Forks, which was the inspiration for the famous Twilight movie series. Then make your way to the many beaches that line the western edge of the Olympic Peninsula. Ruby and Rialto Beaches are some of the best, as are the Kalaloch Beaches, where you’ll find the Tree of Life. You can also take a backpacking trip to the Ozette Triangle, Shi Shi Beach, or Toleak Point.

Lastly, visit the Hoh Rainforest, which is one of the only rainforests in the country. It’s very beautiful, and there are several trails that you can hike to get up close and personal to the unique environment.

Where to Stay on the Olympic Peninsula

Port Angeles: Book a stay at the Olympic Lodge by Ayres. It’s a modern hotel with decor that hearkens back to the classic National Park lodge style. It’s an easy drive to Hurricane Ridge and Lake Crescent from here. Check rates.

Lake Crescent: Built in 1916, the historic Lake Crescent Lodge includes cabins and hotel rooms. Most have an incredible view of the lake and surrounding mountains. Check rates.

Sol Duc Hot Springs: The best way to experience the springs is to stay at the Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort. They have cute cabins on the same property as the hot springs. Check rates.

Forks: Stay in the heart of the rainforest at the Misty Valley Inn. This cute B&B has a great deck for soaking up the sun. Check rates.

2. North Cascades Highway

Starting Point: Seattle

Time Needed: 4+ days

One of the most beautiful and underrated national parks in the entire country can be found right in Washington state. And with a road trip along the North Cascades Highway, you can experience the entire thing!

Starting in Seattle, make your way north towards Highway 20. This highway closes regularly in the winter months due to heavy snowfall, so be sure to squeeze this road trip in during the summer or fall! Once you’ve made it onto the highway, you’ll drive for a bit before you start to see the views. But once you start to see them, they’ll never end!

The small town of Marblemount marks the real entrance into the park and where you’ll start getting into some windier roads. From here, there will be plenty of stops to pull off and enjoy the views of embark on a hike.

Diablo Lake is one of the best stopping points, as well as the Washington Pass Overlook. Both of these can be reached right off Highway 20.

As for hiking trails, Blue Lake and Maple Pass Loop are two of the best. Blue Lake is one of the best beginner friendly hikes in Washington, so it’s great for all skill levels! Other great options include Thunder Knob, Sahale Arm, Cutthroat Pass, and the East Bank Trail along Ross Lake.

It’s worth continuing past the eastern boundary of North Cascades National Park to the tiny town of Winthrop. It has a fun Western theme along with lots of cute shops, restaurants, and hotels.

Overall, the North Cascades Highway road trip is the perfect trip for those who love hiking and are looking for a way to disconnect from the outside world on their road trip in Washington.

Where to Stay on the North Cascades Highway

Marblemount: Stay at the historic North Cascades Inn, opened in 1889. It’s an easy jumping-off point for drives into North Cascades National Park. Check rates.

Diablo Lake: Camp in the heart of the National Park at Colonial Creek Campground, situated on the shores of Diablo Lake. You can hike right from your campsite. Check rates.

Winthrop: The Methow River Lodge gives you the best of both worlds: You get a cute cabin along the river with a wilderness feel, and the shops and restaurants of “downtown” Winthrop are just a 10-minute walk away. Check rates.

3. Mount Baker Highway

Starting Point: Seattle

Time Needed: 3+ days

If you’ve already visited North Cascades National Park or are looking for somewhere even less visited, then planning a trip to the Mount Baker Highway is a must. This is my favorite area in all of Washington.

You’ll drive north of Seattle towards Bellingham and almost into Canada. If you have extra time, drop into Bellingham. The quaint downtown has several great craft breweries. If you visit on a Saturday, be sure to stop at the farmer’s market.

After Bellingham, your route turns inland towards the Deming area. From here, you’ll head east on Mount Baker Highway to start exploring this beautiful stretch of land.

Most of this road trip is in Mount Baker National Forest. But it’s worth a stop in the town of Glacier before you get into the forest. It has a great brewery as well as a few restaurants and hotels.

There’s a lot to explore along this highway, and you’ll start to see views of the Cascade Range and Mount Baker not too long after you start the drive. But the closer you get to the end of the road, the better the views get.

This road trip could be great year-round, as long as you keep an eye on the road conditions. You won’t be able to do hikes in the winter, but Mount Baker does have a popular ski area.

In summer, check out all of the amazing hikes including Artist Point, Chain Lakes Loop, Lake Ann, and Bagley Lakes. I highly recommend walking to Artist Point, even if that means walking on the road for a short time. It’s so beautiful and a one-of-a-kind view!

You’ll also want to make a stop at Picture Lake, one of the most picturesque lakes you’ll ever see. The Mount Baker Highway dead-ends at Artist Point, so retrace your route back to Seattle once you’ve finished admiring the views.

Where to Stay on the Mount Baker Highway

Bellingham: Stay within walking distance of everything at Hotel Leo. Most of the rooms are pretty big and while the hotel is older, the decor and amenities are very modern. Check rates.

Glacier: This time town is full of adorable rental cabins. The Charming Cedar Chalet is nestled into the rainforest. The best part? The wooden outdoor hot tub! Check rates.

Mount Baker National Forest: Immerse yourself in the wilderness by reserving a campsite at the Silver Fir or Douglas Fir Campgrounds. Check rates.

4. Eastern Washington

Starting Point: Spokane

Time Needed: 4+ days

When people think of road-tripping Washington, they often forget about the eastern half of the state. But there is so much to see here that is overlooked and forgotten about!

Starting in Spokane, plan your trip to explore Eastern Washington. Head south towards Palouse Falls to start. This massive waterfall is one worth seeing. It’s Washington’s state waterfall, which is saying a lot being that there are so many of them!

As you head north, check to see if any events are happening at The Gorge Amphitheater in Quincy. This unique concert venue has hosted hundreds of shows and has a stunning backdrop for music.

As you head north, it’s worth making a detour to Lake Chelan. Take the foot-passenger ferry down the lake to Stehekin, a unique town surrounded by North Cascades National Park. It makes a fun day trip or a longer excursion to access some incredible hiking.

Then make your way up to Coulee City to visit Steamboat Rock State Park. This unique and beautiful park is a must-see. I loved it more than I thought I would because it’s such an interesting area. I also really loved that it’s so much less busy than Western Washington.

You can also then visit the Grand Coulee Dam before finishing your loop road trip back to Spokane. The dam is the largest producer of hydroelectricity in the United States!

Where to Stay in Eastern Washington

The Gorge: The gorgeous Sagecliffe Resort & Spa has incredible views from both the main hotel building and the private cliffhouse cottages. Check rates.

Lake Chelan: Stay in wine country near the shores of Lake Chelan at the Lakeside Lodge and Suites. Check rates.

Steamboat Rock State Park: Book a rustic cabin or campsite at Steamboat Rock State Park. You can hike right from your site or walk over to Banks Lake for a swim. Check rates.

5. Mount Rainier National Park

Starting Point: Seattle or Portland

Time Needed: 5+ days

Perhaps the most popular national park in Washington is Mount Rainier. This could be because it’s the tallest mountain in the state and it dominates the Seattle skyline for everyone to see.

A road trip to Mount Rainier National Park is a great way to explore Washington’s natural beauty. Starting from either Seattle or Portland, Oregon, head towards the national park.

Starting with Paradise, which is on the southern side of the mountain, you’ll explore the area around Paradise Inn. This is also the perfect place to stay for your visit.

From the inn, you can visit Myrtle Falls and take the ever-popular Skyline Loop Trail for some of the most amazing views of the mountain. Be sure to check the weather before going to Paradise, because when we went, it was so foggy we couldn’t even see the mountain.

After spending time in Paradise, follow Stevens Canyon Road through Ohanapecosh towards Sunrise. Stop at Reflection Lake and the many overlooks on the way. If you need supplies or a place to stay, take a detour down Highway 123 and then Highway 12 to the town of Packwood.

At Sunrise, embark on the Mount Fremont Fire Lookout Trail. This hike gives you incredible, unobstructed views of Mount Rainier.

For a few more added days in a less busy area, head to Carbon River and Mowich Lake. You’ll find far fewer people on this side of the park, but the Tolmie Peak Fire Lookout is a must and will complete your trip to Mount Rainier. 

Where to Stay at Mount Rainier

Paradise Area: The historic Paradise Inn is over 100 years old and lets you stay right in the heart of the park. The log-beamed atrium is stunning! Check rates.

Ohanapecosh Area: Located roughly halfway between Paradise and Sunrise, the Ohanapecosh Campground is a great base for exploring the park. Check rates.

Packwood: Choose from hotel-style rooms or self-contained cabins with kitchens at the Packwood Lodge and Cabins. They have an on-site restaurant too. Check rates.

6. I-90 and Highway 2 Loop

Starting Point: Seattle

Time Needed: 5+ days

There’s a lot to explore in Northern Washington, and by putting together a loop by combining the I-90 and Highway 2 drives, you’ll create one epic road trip.

Start in Seattle and begin by driving east on I-90. You’ll quickly start coming across places to stop, beginning with North Bend. Here you’ll find trailheads for some of the most popular hikes near Seattle; Rattlesnake Ledge, Twin Falls, and Mount Si. If you’re looking for a short hike, walk the 1.4-mile trail to Snoqualmie Falls. (You might recognize it from the TV show Twin Peaks!)

As you continue along the road, you’ll drive by Snoqualmie Pass. This is a ski resort in the winter, and a great place to do some hiking throughout the rest of the year.

Even if you aren’t a hiker, the views along this route are beautiful, and you’ll find that it’s still worth it! Plus, the many short trails and parks allow for easy walks to viewpoints. The 2-mile hike to Franklin Falls is one of the most popular.

Continue along past Cle Elum and you’ll come to the small town of Thorp, which is where you’ll turn onto Highway 97 towards Leavenworth. Once you’ve made it to the Bavarian village of Leavenworth, turn west onto Highway 2 and spend some time in the small town.

Leavenworth is a gateway to some of the best hiking in the state, including the challenging trek to the Enchantments or the family-friendly Icicle Gorge Trail.

As you continue on the road, you’ll come across another ski resort, Stevens Pass, and many more trailheads for popular hiking trails. You can stop at any of them along your way before making it back to Seattle. Try the Iron Goat Trail, which takes you along an old railroad grade and through several abandoned tunnels.

Where to Stay on the I-90 and Highway 2 Loop

North Bend: There are tons of adorable cabins near North Bend. The Riverbend Retreat A-Frame has indoor and outdoor fireplaces, a sunroom with river views, and cute rustic-meets-modern decor. Check rates.

Cle Elum: Located just a few minutes away from Snoqualmie Pass, the Best Western Snowcap Lodge is a hiker’s favourite thanks to the included breakfast. Check rates.

Leavenworth: Immerse yourself in the town’s German theme at the Bavarian Lodge. The hotel’s decor and food (including the free breakfast) will transport you to the Bavarian Alps. Check rates.

Stevens Pass: Stay at a ski cabin in Skykomish, a few minutes from Stevens Pass. Foss Haus A-Frame has huge windows that look out on the surrounding forest. There’s also an outdoor hot tub on the huge deck. Check rates.

7. Columbia River Gorge

Starting Point: Portland

Time Needed: 3+ days

Although many people think of the Columbia River Gorge being more so in Oregon, there is plenty to explore on the Washington side as well.

Starting from the Vancouver area just outside of Portland, you can make your way down the shore of the Columbia River and stop off at all of the best hiking trails and scenic viewpoints.

Cape Horn Lookout is one of the first viewpoints to stop off at, and you can also complete the hike here. But it is a pretty long hike.

Beacon Rock and Hamilton Mountain come next, followed shortly by Dog Mountain. This hike is one of the most popular, particularly in the springtime with the alpine wildflowers begin to bloom and create a sea of yellow and purple.

Continue up the Gorge past the Bridge of the Gods and the town of Stevenson. Spirit Falls is one of my favorite hidden gems along this Washington road trip, and Coyote Wall is another beautiful option that is lesser known. These are two of my favorite spots near Portland, and there are often fewer visitors on both of them!

If you have extra time, you can cross the Hood River Bridge that leads from White Salmon to Hood River and spend some time exploring the Oregon side of the Columbia River Gorge.

Where to Stay in the Columbia River Gorge

Stevenson: The recently renovated Hotel Stevenson is a family-run boutique hotel. It gets great reviews for its quaint and cozy rooms. Check rates.

Beacon Rock State Park: Book a campsite at Beacon Rock State Park in the heart of the gorge. It’s a great base for lots of hiking trails. Check rates.

Carson Hot Springs Resort: Take a short detour up into the mountains and step back in time. The same family has run the bathhouse and hotel at Carson Hot Springs Resort for generations. Check rates.

White Salmon: There are tons of great vacation rentals in the Columbia River Gorge. The Perched on the Edge of the Gorge House has incredible views and a private hot tub. Check rates.

8. Highway 2 and the North Cascades Highway

Starting Point: Seattle

Time Needed: 5+ days

Another way to experience Highway 2 and the North Cascades Highway is to put them together as one long road trip in Washington. Starting in Seattle, begin the trip by driving east on Highway 2 towards Leavenworth.

Make stops along the way as you see fit at places like Heybrook Lookout, Lake Serene, and Wallace Falls. Be sure to spend some time in Leavenworth before continuing to the small towns of Orondo and Chelan. From here, head north until you’ve made it to Highway 20.

Once you’ve made it onto Highway 20, you’ll quickly make your way into North Cascades National Park. You’ll be going the opposite way that most people do, which is nice because there will typically be less traffic!

Stop and explore the hundreds of hiking trails throughout the park and add on some of the hikes that I mentioned above.

This is a great way to experience two of Washington’s best scenic drives, all in one trip.

Where to Stay on Highway 2 and the North Cascades Highway

Leavenworth: Immerse yourself in the town’s German theme at the Bavarian Lodge. The hotel’s decor and food (including the free breakfast) will transport you to the Bavarian Alps. Check rates.

Lake Chelan: Stay in wine country near the shores of Lake Chelan at the Lakeside Lodge and Suites. Check rates.

Winthrop: The Methow River Lodge gives you the best of both worlds: You get a cute cabin along the river with a wilderness feel, and the shops and restaurants of “downtown” Winthrop are just a 10-minute walk away. Check rates.

Diablo Lake: Camp in the heart of the National Park at Colonial Creek Campground, situated on the shores of Diablo Lake. You can hike right from your campsite. Check rates.

9. Mount St. Helens and Mount Rainer

Starting Point: Seattle or Portland

Time Needed: 5+ days

Washington has many mountains that bring in visitors from all over, but two of the most popular are Mount Rainier and Mount St. Helens. By taking this road trip, you can see both of them in one go!

Plan to start in either Seattle or Portland and head out for your first day of exploring. 

For Mount St. Helens, visit the Johnston Ridge Observatory to learn more about the 1980 eruption of the active volcano. Many hikes from here lead you into the blast zone to see the devastating damage.

Mount St. Helens is my favorite mountain in Washington, and I find that many people forget about it. So if you want fewer crowds, I would plan a trip here!

Another must-see near Mount St. Helens is Ape Cave, which is one of the country’s longest lava tubes. You can walk underground through the cave, which is quite unique.

Then head to Mount Rainier to see Washington’s tallest mountain. Here you can check out more hikes, like the Skyline Loop and Tolmie Peak Lookout.

Where to Stay at Mount St. Helens and Mount Rainier

Longview: The town of Longview is a great base for trips to Mount St. Helen’s. Book a room at the top-rated Best Western Aladdin Inn which has a great breakfast and friendly staff. Check rates.

Mount Rainier: The historic Paradise Inn is over 100 years old and lets you stay right in the heart of the park. The log-beamed atrium is stunning! Check rates.

Best Time to Visit Washington State

While Washington is beautiful year-round, there is a best time to visit to ensure that you avoid being met with closed roads and snow-covered trails.

It’s best to plan your visit to Washinton between June and September. This is when there is the least chance for snow and road closures. It’s also when the weather is the warmest.

However, no mountains are immune to snow in the summer, so always check road conditions before traveling to avoid disappointment!

How Many Days Do I Need For a Washington Road Trip?

How many days you’ll need to complete these trips will depend on which route you’re choosing to take. Some only need 3 days, while others might need a full week.

I’d personally recommend having a full week to explore almost all of them so you can fully experience the most, but if you only have a few days, select one of the routes that requires less time.

Tips for Road Trips in Washington State

• The easiest places to rent a car for your Washington road trip are Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (Sea-Tac), downtown Seattle, Portland International Airport, and downtown Portland. I use Discover Cars because it lets me compare prices across different rental companies.
• If you like exploring, I recommend renting an SUV so you can drive on bumpy forest service roads. But you can drive any of these road trips in Washington in a regular car.
• In the summer, hotels in popular locations get booked up. Make reservations in advance.
• Washington’s mountains make it tough to get cell phone reception in some places. Expect to lose reception in parts of the Olympic Peninsula, the North Cascades, and near Mount Rainier.
• Keep in mind that Washington has strict cell phone laws for drivers. It is illegal to use a phone to talk or text while driving including when you are stopped in traffic or at a red light. You can use your phone in hands-free mode via Bluetooth though.
• Washington has a great network of highway rest areas. You will never have to drive too far without passing one. They all have free (and usually clean) restrooms). Some have free coffee supplied by local volunteers (who welcome donations).
• Seattle weekend traffic is real! If you can, avoid driving out of the city on Friday evenings and Saturday mornings. And avoid driving back into the city on Sunday afternoons.

From towering mountains to rugged coastline and beautiful views, Washington State is the perfect place to plan a road trip. Pack up the campervan, your own car, or a rental car and embark on some of the best Washington road trips to truly appreciate this beautiful state.

Thanks to Kassidy for sharing this gorgeous guide to the best Washington road trips. You can read more about Kassidy’s adventures on her website, the Hiking Helper.

READ NEXT:

• 2023 Washington Backpacking Reservation Dates
• Ozette Loop Hiking and Backpacking Guide
• Shi Shi Beach Hiking and Camping Guide
• How to Hike and Camp at Toleak Point in Olympic National Park
• Hike the East Bank Trail in North Cascades National Park

The post 9 Best Washington Road Trips appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

Vibrant foliage transforms the landscape into a painter’s palette of reds, yellows, and oranges. Wildlife like elk and sheep are more active due to rutting season, creating prime viewing opportunities. 

Hiking trails offer quiet solitude, contrasting with the busy summer months. However, be prepared for muddy conditions once the rain arrives.

Dawn Outdoors Contributor Karen first visited Banff over 40 years ago. Since then, she’s made lots of other trips to the Canadian Rockies, so she really knows Banff in the fall.

This guide to Banff in the fall includes:

• A custom Banff in the fall travel map that highlights all the recommended spots in this post
• Travel tips for Banff in the fall including info on weather and park passes
• Where to stay in Banff from budget to luxury
• 9 beautiful reasons to visit Banff in the fall from hikes, to viewpoints, to wildlife and more

This is a sensitive wilderness area. Learn how to Leave No Trace to keep the wilderness wild. Make sure you are prepared by bringing the 10 Essentials. Get ready for adventure with this checklist of things to do before every hike.

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support. -Taryn

Banff in the Fall Travel Map

Are you curious about where to find all the places recommended in this post? We made a custom Banff in the fall Google Map for you. Click here to zoom in and explore.

Travel Tips for Banff in the Fall

Since temperatures vary in the fall, you’ll need to pack layers. Expect highs of 15C or 59F in September, which drop to 10C (50F) by October. Nights can get cold, with September averages above freezing, but October sees snow and lows of -2C (28F).

To visit Banff, you’ll need a Park Pass or Discovery Pass, which you can purchase online. You can buy one for daily or yearly visits. If you plan to spend seven days in a national park, the annual pass saves money and covers up to seven people in one vehicle. Plus, the Discovery Pass covers multiple parks across Canada.

Cell phone coverage is non-existent once you leave Banff. However, if you plan to explore the Icefields Parkway, there is only one road, so you won’t get lost.

As the days are getting shorter, be aware of sunset when hiking. Plan to set out early and return before it gets dark.

Lastly, remember you’re in bear country, and that bears are very active in the fall. Make noise, carry bear spray, and hike in groups to avoid an encounter.

PSST! Read these Bear Safety Tips before you go to Banff

Where To Stay In Banff

Banff offers a variety of accommodations, from camping to hotels. However, nothing is really budget-friendly unless you’re camping.

Camping in the fall is best if you have a hard-side camper with heating due to chilly temperatures at night.

While many campgrounds close on September 2, others remain open until early October. Located close to downtown, Tunnel Mountain Village II Campground remains open year-round. 

Psst! Going camping in the fall? Read my tips for staying warm in a tent!

If you’re seeking a luxury hotel stay, you can’t beat the service and rooms at the Fairmont Banff Springs and Chateau Lake Louise. Owned by the Fairmont brand, they offer opulent accommodations, many with splendid views.

For budget-conscious travelers, the Ptarmigan Inn offers free parking and an excellent complimentary buffet breakfast that’s hard to beat. Located within walking distance of downtown, you won’t have to walk far to reach top Banff restaurants for dinner.

Another great choice is the Moose Hotel and Suites. It features a lovely rooftop pool and hot tub with mountain views. Its suites can sleep up to four, ideal for groups or families. With a living area and cozy fireplace, it’s a great place to wind down on a cold evening.

If you find Banff prices too high, you can try staying in nearby Canmore instead. It’s an easy 20 minute drive from Banff. Many of the accommodation options are suites with kitchens, which can help you save more money since you won’t be eating out as much. The Solara Resort has gorgeous (and huge!) suites. MTN House by Basecamp has reasonably priced rooms with modern mountain decor.

9 Beautiful Reasons to Visit Banff in the Fall

If you’re willing to gamble on an off-season visit, you might be pleasantly surprised by your trip to Banff. Here are some great reasons to forego summer travel and visit in the autumn instead.

1. The Weather Is Cooler

If you’re not fond of the heat, you’ll enjoy fall. The weather remains pleasant, but it’s important to pack layers. Temperature can vary dramatically from morning to afternoon. Higher elevations could get chilly, especially in the early hours or after dusk.

If you plan to take one of the gondolas around Banff or Lake Louise or hike up into the mountains, be aware that the temperatures can differ significantly on a mountain peak. Weather forecasts for the town of Banff can be useless further into the park. Use these weather apps for hikers for a much more accurate forecast.

If you plan to enjoy hiking in Banff, the cooler temperatures are much more idyllic. In the fall, expect daytime highs of 14C to 15C (57F to 59F), although the nights can get quite cold.

Since rain may be more prevalent, jackets and footwear should be waterproof. Expect muddy spots on hiking trails if the area has received significant rainfall.

Some hotels in Banff don’t have air conditioning, so a fall stay may be much more comfortable. 

2. Enjoy Fall Foliage

Fall foliage in Banff is stunning, with colors peaking from mid-September to early October. The landscape comes alive with hues of yellow, orange, and red. 

Larch trees are the main attraction, their needles turning a vibrant gold. Aspen and poplar trees add splashes of yellow and orange to the scenery.

For the best views, head to Larch Valley. Accessible from Moraine Lake, it’s a prime spot to see golden larches. Healy Pass and Sentinel Pass also offer golden tones, but these trails are reserved for the fittest hikers.

Another great location is the Icefields Parkway, offering panoramic views of the changing colors. If you don’t want to drive the whole parkway, just go as far as Bow Lake, about an hour north of Banff.

The Bow Valley Parkway is another great spot to enjoy fall hues. However, it is usually closed during September to allow wildlife to move unimpeded as they get ready for winter.

Whether hiking or driving, Banff in the fall offers multiple spots to witness the seasonal transformation. Each location provides a unique vantage point to appreciate the colors in full display.

While fall brings more rain, you’ll enjoy waterfalls with heavy flow. Must-visits include Takakkaw Falls in Yoho National Park, Bow Falls, and the Upper Falls in Johnston Canyon. While Takakkaw Falls is in another national park, you can reach it with a one-hour drive from Banff.

3. Fewer Crowds

One of the best reasons to visit Banff in the fall is for fewer people. Banff is one of the best outdoor adventure towns in Canada and it has exploded in popularity. Summer brings high-priced hotel rooms, crowded trails, and the inability to park in high-traffic areas.

After Labor Day, visitors dissipate, causing hotels to drop their prices. Banff Avenue in downtown reopens to traffic, and parking becomes less problematic in the off-season. 

With the bulk of the tourists gone, you won’t have to wait long to eat at one of the top restaurants downtown.

Popular trails such as Johnston Canyon and Beehive Trail at Lake Louise feel less like commuting in rush hour. The later weeks in September see much fewer crowds, although you can’t enjoy a cup of tea at the mountainous teahouse since it’s closed for the season.

Gridlock areas such as Lake Louise and Moraine Lake benefit from fewer tourists in the fall. Since Moraine Lake is only accessible by shuttle now, you’ll find it easier to get a time slot. However, due to snow, the area closes from October 9th until the following June.

4. Rutting Season

Fall welcomes the start of rutting reason, a ritual that is wonderful to witness. Rutting season is the mating period for certain animals, notably elk, deer, and moose in the Banff area. 

It occurs in the fall, usually from mid-September to early November. During this time, male animals engage in behaviors to attract females and establish dominance. They often bugle, a unique vocalization that’s quite haunting to hear.

Males or bulls exercise dominance by fighting with younger males who challenge them. Elk are the most prominent species in Banff and the wildlife you’ll most likely encounter.

Watching them gather harems of females and defend them against rival bulls is fascinating. They often lose weight during this time, as they don’t eat during this rivalry period.

These confrontations can be intense, involving charging and clashing antlers. Deer and moose also participate but are less commonly seen.

For visitors, the rutting season offers an unparalleled wildlife-watching opportunity. However, it’s crucial to maintain a safe distance, as animals are more aggressive and unpredictable during this period. The safest place to watch is from inside a vehicle. With caution, witnessing the rut can be a memorable part of your Banff visit.

5. Budget-Friendly

If Banff is your bucket list destination, but you find it very expensive, a fall visit provides a bit of relief. Hotel rooms drop in price and continue to fall until the new year. 

However, the change of the season and snow bring skiers and snowboarders who take advantage of the powdery slopes. 

If you’ve dreamed of staying in a luxury hotel like the Fairmont Banff Springs and Chateau Lake Louise, it may be slightly more affordable. While summer commands a top price of CAD 1200+ a night, you could get a deal of 25 to 50% off.

Tour prices are cheaper too, as operators struggle to entice visitors to book excursions. Gondola rides, often sold out in summer, offer lower prices but cooler temperatures at the peak.

The end of the season also brings sales, as shops discount their merchandise before closing for the winter. It’s a great time to pick up gifts and souvenirs.

6. Later Sunrise

Is capturing the sunrise in Banff on your bucket list? There are many places to savor the early morning event. But the top marks go to Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, which gather the crowds in the wee hours.

Around the summer solstice, sunrise happens at 5:27 a.m. To see it, you’ll need to rise exceptionally early. With a 40-minute drive from Banff to Lake Louise and a much longer travel time to Moraine Lake, you could be getting up at 3:30 a.m.

In September, you’ll benefit from a later sunrise, allowing you to get an extra two hours of sleep. 

If you want to see the sunrise at Lake Louise, staying there rather than Banff for one night cuts out your travel time. Arriving at the lakeside early is advisable to get a premium viewing location.

If you prefer a location closer to Banff, you have options. Lake Minnewanka and Vermillion Lakes provide mountainous backdrops to the anticipated event.

Mount Norquay and the Banff Gondola to Sulphur Mountain offer a different perspective from the top of a mountain. Wherever you choose to watch, remember your camera and tripod.

7. Quieter Hiking Trails

With fewer visitors in Banff hitting the trails, you’ll enjoy some solitude in the mountains. Hiking around Lake Louise is often congested during peak times. 

As summer winds down, you can hike to Lake Agnes, the Plain of the Six Glaciers, and the Beehives without encountering too many hikers along the way. Be aware that the weather can change, so pack a windproof and waterproof jacket.

Depending on the time of your visit, some areas may be closed for the season. So, check on park closures when planning your Banff itinerary.

Hiking Johnston Canyon in the off-season offers fewer crowds and more accessible parking. You’ll have narrow walkways almost to yourself. Enjoy the sound of silence and better photo opportunities. 

Off-season visits also offer unique beauty and the chance to linger at waterfall sightings without blocking the trail.

READ NEXT: 16 Things to do Before a Hike

8. More Animal Sightings

As the colder temperatures arrive, the higher elevations receive snow. It forces the animals to lower ground for their food source. An autumn visit is an ideal time to see wildlife, even in Banff.

Elk and deer are commonly spotted around Banff as the sign of winter approaches. The Vermillion Lakes and Banff Springs Golf Course are prime wildlife spotting areas. Early morning and just before dusk are the best time for viewing, as the animals are more active.

Bears are foraging at this time too. They need to gain weight for their winter hibernation. 

The hiking trails around Moraine Lake, mainly Consolation Lakes, provide a great area to see grizzly bears. However, the route may have hiking limitations. During active sightings, you may only hike with a minimum number of people, usually four or more. Read these bear safety tips before you go!

The Lake Louise gondola is another option to view wildlife. Visitors often spot bears, elk, goats, sheep, and deer during the gondola ride. Occasionally, a sighting can include a cougar, wolf, or lynx. Their website’s calendar shows what’s spotted each day.

9. Easier Car Rental

With a pent-up demand to travel after the pandemic, visitors to Banff need to book a rental car at least six months in advance. Most fly into Calgary International Airport, where rental vehicles have been hard to come by.

With fewer visitors in the fall, you’ll benefit from available car rentals and lower rental rates. If you plan to visit both Banff and Jasper, renting in Calgary and dropping off in Edmonton makes sense. 

If there’s snow in the forecast, rent an SUV instead of a car. While Alberta law doesn’t require snow tires, paying a little extra for them gives peace of mind, especially if driving at higher elevations.

I like to use Discover Cars to book rental cars because they let you compare prices across lots of rental companies.

Thanks to Karen for sharing this gorgeous guide to the best reasons to visit Banff in the fall. You can read more about Karen’s adventures on her website, Forever Karen.

READ NEXT:

• Best Things to Do in Banff in the Spring
• How to Take an Epic Canadian National Parks Road Trip
• Things to Do in Yoho National Park
• 20 Fabulous Canadian National Park Gift Ideas
• 15 Best Things to Do in Canmore in Winter
• 15 Things to do in Revelstoke in the Summer
• Things to do in Mount Revelstoke National Park, Canada
• Best Small Towns in Canada for Outdoor Adventures

The post 9 Beautiful Reasons to Visit Banff in the Fall appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

Death Valley National Park is the perfect stop to add to a Nevada or California road trip itinerary. The park is close to Las Vegas and Los Angeles. Nearby Death Valley are some of Nevada and California’s famous ghost towns. And, other epic parks like Sequoia National Forest aren’t too far away. 

Dawn Outdoors contributor Erin from Pina Travels recently spent a few days in the park and wrote a comprehensive guide for you.

This guide to Death Valley National Park includes:

• A custom Death Valley National Park map that highlights all the locations in this post
• When to visit Death Valley National Park – the best time of year to go
• How long to spend in Death Valley? How many days is best?
• Death Valley fees, passes and reservations: Which ones do you need?
• How to get to Death Valley from both Las Vegas and Los Angeles
• Getting Around Death Valley: Self-driving and tours
• Where to stay in Death Valley including hotels and campgrounds
• The 10 best things to do in Death Valley National Park from hiking to scenic drives and more

This is a sensitive wilderness area. Learn how to Leave No Trace to keep the wilderness wild. Make sure you are prepared by bringing the 10 Essentials. Get ready for adventure with this checklist of things to do before every hike.

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support. -Taryn

Death Valley National Park Map

Are you curious about where to find all the places I recommend in this post? I made a custom Death Valley National Park Google Map for you. Click on the map to zoom in.

When to Visit Death Valley National Park

Before we dive into the best things to do in Death Valley, it’s important to note that the best time to hike in Death Valley is from November through March. 

During spring, summer, and early fall, temperatures are so high it’s important to be extremely cautious when hiking. I visited Death Valley in early May and found it taxing to be outdoors at midday. 

If you plan to hike in Death Valley, prepare properly. Bring lots of water, wear good footwear, wear a hat, wear sunscreen, and watch yourself and others for signs of overheating. Read these tips for hiking in the desert and hiking in hot weather before you go.

I found that the best time to hike in Death Valley is early in the morning, or in the late afternoon. At these times of day, the sun is lower in the sky, which means there’s less direct sun on you. 

The good news about Death Valley? You can do a lot of fun things that don’t involve long hikes! This list covers some hikes, yes, but I’ll also cover activities that aren’t as physically demanding. 

Why is Death Valley So Hot?

Death Valley National Park is the lowest point in all of North America! The lowest region of the park, Badwater Basin, is 282 feet below sea level. 

It’s the fact that Death Valley is so low, and shaped like a big valley, that makes this park so hot. Sunlight heats the surface of the desert, and the heat radiates from the rocks. Because the park is a valley, heat settles and becomes trapped. As a result, Death Valley is famous for its record-breaking temperatures.

How Long to Spend in Death Valley National Park

There’s a lot to do in Death Valley National Park. Especially because it’s so hot, it’s difficult to fit several activities into one day. You can easily spend 4 days seeing the park’s highlights, watching epic sunsets, and hiking. 

If you’ve only got 1 or 2 days I recommend seeing the main highlights: Zabriskie Point, Artist’s Drive, Badwater Basin, and the Mesquite Flats. (More on these below!)

Death Valley National Park Fees, Passes, and Reservations

Admission to Death Valley National Park costs $30 per vehicle and is valid for one week. You can pay at park entrance kiosks or automated fee machines.

If you plan to visit more than one National Park, consider buying an America the Beautiful Pass for $80. It covers over 2000 federal recreation sites and all National Parks. It’s valid for one year.

While you need reservations to visit some popular National Parks, you do NOT need reservations to visit Death Valley. Just show up!

How to Get to Death Valley National Park 

The largest cities near Death Valley National Park are Las Vegas and Los Angeles. Las Vegas is the closest, making it a popular city to fly into to access the park. 

Psst! If you’re staying in Vegas, don’t miss our guide to Incredible Outdoor Activities Near Las Vegas!

From Las Vegas: 2-Hour Drive

Take the NV-160 through Pahrump and Death Valley Junction. Alternatively, you can take the US-95 through Indian Springs and Amargosa Valley, which takes a bit more time. 

From Los Angeles: 4.5 Hour Drive

Take Interstate 10 or 210 to Interstate 15 north to Baker, then California 127 to California 190 E into the park. The alternative option is to take California 14, then U.S. 395, then California 190 E. 

Getting Around Death Valley: Self-Drive or Tours

You will need a car to explore Death Valley National Park since there is no public transportation in the park. The easiest places to rent a car nearby are Las Vegas and Los Angeles. I use Discover Cars to search for car rentals since it compares prices across tons of different companies.

Keep in mind that many of the roads in the park are dirt with no cell phone reception or services. If you aren’t experienced in off-road driving, stick to the main park roads.

Another option is to visit Death Valley with a tour. There are lots of options leaving from Las Vegas. This five-star-rated small-group tour takes you through the park’s highlights as a day trip. Or book this full-day tour from Las Vegas that includes an incredible evening of stargazing.

Where to Stay in Death Valley

There are two options for staying within Death Valley National Park. You can camp or book a hotel. Furnace Creek and Stovepipe Wells are the two villages within Death Valley, and it’s in these villages that you’ll find the park’s hotels and campgrounds.

Camping in Death Valley 

The two most popular campgrounds within the park are Furnace Creek and Texas Springs. Sunset, Death Valley’s largest campground, almost always has sites available, even in the busy season. Furnace Creek campground requires reservations while the others are first-come, first-served. There are also several smaller campgrounds.

It’s worth noting that most campgrounds are open from October to April only. They close in the hot months.

Hotels in Death Valley 

Now, let’s talk about hotels. There are three hotels inside Death Valley National Park:

The Ranch at Death Valley has air-conditioned rooms with hot showers, an outdoor swimming pool, a playground, a tennis court, a bar, a restaurant, and a general store. Check prices.

The Inn at Death Valley is a historic hotel that’s been in operation since 1927. This hotel has a spring-fed pool, a bar, a restaurant, a gym, and gardens to enjoy. It was renovated recently, and so it tends to be a bit more expensive than The Ranch at Death Valley. Check prices.

Stovepipe Wells Village Hotel is at the northern end of Death Valley, so it’s in a less convenient location. But this is your budget option! Here you’ll find simple rooms, and lots of amenities on-site, including a Western-style saloon, restaurant, general store, and pool. Check prices.

You can also book a hotel just outside the park. The closest option is the eclectic Amargosa Opera House and Hotel in Death Valley Junction. You will also find a Best Western and a Holiday Inn Express in nearby Pahrump, about an hour from the park entrance.

Because there are so few hotels in the park, they book up quickly. Be sure to reserve your hotel in advance. 

Best Things to Do in Death Valley

Golden Canyon Trail 

The Golden Canyon trail is one of the most popular hikes in the park. It’s a 4.3-mile (6.9 km) loop trail that takes you through surreal landscapes. 

Golden Canyon is an easy to moderate trail that takes most people 2-3 hours. It starts by taking you through a beautiful canyon, Golden Canyon, and then onward to Red Cathedral, Manly Beacon, and Gower Gulch. Along the hike, you’ll see tall rock walls, narrow slots, badlands, and desert. 

This is a popular trail because it’s not too difficult (particularly if you do it at a cooler time of day), and it gives you a taste of Death Valley’s various landscapes. 

Zabriskie Point

Zabriskie Point is one of the best lookout points in Death Valley National Park. To reach the lookout point, you’ll park in a big parking lot, and then walk about a quarter mile up a paved path that’s on an incline. 

At the top there is signage explaining what you’re seeing, and benches where you can rest. You can see the badlands as well as incredible jutting stone faces in the distance. From this viewpoint, you can really see the diversity of Death Valley’s landscapes. 

Zabriskie Point is one of the best spots in the park to watch sunrise and sunset, so it’s worth planning this stop on your itinerary as either an early morning start to the day or for when the sun goes down. 

Artists Drive

Artists Drive is a scenic 9-mile (14 km) drive that takes you through hills that are famous for their pastel hues. This is the perfect activity to do when it’s especially hot because you can take in the beautiful Death Valley views from the comfort of your air-conditioned car. 

As you drive, you’ll see hills that have shades of green, pink, red, yellow and more colours. This rainbow phenomenon on the rocks is caused by volcanic deposits rich in compounds such as iron oxides and chlorite.

Artist’s Drive is just off Badwater Road, south of Furnace Creek. The start of the drive is clearly marked. It’s a loop drive that brings you back out to Badwater Road. The road is well-paved and single-lane. It’s best to drive slowly, so you can really take in everything around you!

Throughout the drive, there are pull-offs with parking lots, where you can get out of your car to take a closer look at the rocks and the view.

Artist’s Palette is the most popular pull-off. From this viewpoint, you can see some of the park’s most vibrant, colorful rocks. 

Artist’s Drive takes the average person 30 minutes to an hour. It all depends on how fast you drive, and how many stops you make along the way. 

Badwater Basin

Badwater Basin is a massive salt flat, the lowest point in the park. At 282 feet below sea level, it’s the lowest point in all of North America. 

A few thousand years ago, Badwater Basin was a big lake, about 30 feet deep. Over time, the lake evaporated, leaving a 1-5 foot layer of salt, which created the salt flat that’s there today. 

Because Badwater Basin is at such a low elevation, it’s one of the hottest parts of the park, and there’s no shade to shield you from the sun. Given this, the best time to visit Badwater Basin is at sunrise or sunset. Coming at these times means you’ll also get treated to beautiful lighting as the sun rises, or goes down. 

Due to years of visitors, the salt flat area near the parking lot has been flattened. You’ll need to walk 15-20 minutes out into the basin to reach the area where you can see the intricate salt crystals that form the cracked patterns that Badwater Basin is known for. 

Be sure to bring lots of  water out into the basin with you – I found that the salt made me very thirsty!

And, before you leave the basin, look up at the rock face opposite the parking lot. Up on the rock face is a sign that marks sea level. Seeing the sign, high up on the rock face, helps you understand how low below sea level the basin truly is. 

Natural Bridge Trail

The Natural Bridge Trail is a 1.4-mile (2.3 km) there-and-back hike through the Amargosa Mountain foothills. It takes you through a canyon, to a massive natural bridge that’s 35 feet tall. 

This is a great trail to do on a hot day because it’s easy and short. It usually takes 45 minutes – 1 hour to complete.

Before starting the trail, be sure to look at the information panel at the trailhead. It provides illustrations of the geological features that you’ll see in the canyon, making it easy to spot features like faults, chutes, and mud drippings as you hike. 

Harmony Borax Works

At Harmony Borax Works, you can explore the remains of a mining operation that dates back more than 120 years. Back in 1883, William Tell Coleman built the Harmony plant to process ore. 

Harmony Borax Works employed around 40 people to extract and produce three tons of borax every day. However, the plant didn’t last long. It was only in use for about 5 years, going out of operation in 1888. 

A short walk from the Harmony Borax Works parking lot, you can see remnants of the mining operation. You also have views of the area of the park where borax was extracted – and you can still see borax out on the plains. 

There is signage at Harmony Borax Works that explains the history of the mining operation, and how it worked. For example, miners used 20-mule teams to haul borax 165 miles to the railroad town of Mojave! 

Mosaic Canyon Trail

Mosaic Canyon Trail is a 4-mile (6.4 km) out-and-back hike. It’s considered moderately difficult because there are some areas where you need to scramble up rocks that can be quite slippery. 

The best part of this hike comes right at the beginning. You’ll walk through narrow canyon walls that are made of wavy rock, which over time has been smoothed out by flash floods.  

It’s best to do this trail first thing in the morning. For most of the trail, there’s very little sun coverage, and so doing it midday is too hot. It takes most people 2-3 hours to complete. 

If you aren’t up for a few hours of hiking, you can still stop by Mosaic Canyon Trail to walk the beginning part, which takes you through the canyon. This is a particularly beautiful part of the trail, and since it’s right at the trailhead, you can spend 30 minutes to an hour exploring just this portion. 

Mesquite Flats Sand Dunes

Mesquite Flats Sand Dunes are a fascinating part of Death Valley National Park. These sand dunes were created through a combination of sand, wind, and surrounding mountains. The dunes are named for the mesquite tree that grows throughout the area. 

Because Mesquite Flats are sand dunes, there’s very little sun cover, so it’s best to visit the dunes either first thing in the morning, or at sunset time. The views of the desert and mountains in the distance are gorgeous as the sun disappears. 

No official trails lead out into the dunes. You’re free to wander wherever you like. Just be sure to watch your step as you walk, and try not to disturb any wildlife. Be careful of wandering out too far – Walking in sand can be very taxing. 

Elevation Sea Level Sign

The Elevation Sea Level signs display the elevation level in the park. You’ll actually notice them all throughout the park, but the one worth stopping at is near Furnace Creek, right where Badwater Road intersects with California State Route 190. 

This particular elevation sign has a shoulder where you can safely pull off the road and stop to take a photo with it. Although this isn’t the most necessary stop in Death Valley, it makes for a very memorable photo opp!

Darwin Falls

Darwin Falls is one of the few year-round waterfalls in Death Valley National Park. These falls are 18 feet tall, and they create a small oasis inside a rocky canyon. 

At the bottom of Darwin Falls is a small pool that has served as a water source for people and wildlife in Death Valley for hundreds of years. It might be tempting to go for a swim in the pool at the bottom of the falls – but don’t! This water is used as a drinking source for a nearby hotel. 

To reach Darwin Falls, you’ll take a 2-mile (3.2 km) out-and-back trail. It takes 1.5 to 2 hours to finish this hike. It’s considered an easy trail to follow, and easy to walk. 

Thanks to Erin for sharing this incredible guide to the best things to do in Death Valley National Park. You can read more about Erin’s adventures on her website, Pina Travels. She also hosts the travel podcast, Curious Tourism, where she interviews travel industry thought leaders and experts about responsible tourism.

READ NEXT:

• 14 Best Outdoor Activities Near Las Vegas
• Take an Epic Outdoors Arizona Road Trip
• 18 Awesome Things to Do in Joshua Tree National Park
• 15 Best Easy Hikes in Moab
• Tips and Tricks for Hiking in the Desert
• Tips for Hiking in Hot Weather

The post 10 Best Things to Do in Death Valley National Park appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

Dawn Outdoors contributor Kristen has spent tons of time hiking in the Grand Canyon, including completing the tough Rim to Rim hike in a single day! So you can trust that she has all the insider info on the Bright Angel Trail.

This Bright Angel Trail guide includes:

• Know before you go – key info about location, permits, when to go, and more
• Bright Angel Trail stats – length, duration, difficulty and elevation gain/loss
• Bright Angel Trail map – a custom map showing all the key locations
• Mile-by-mile Bright Angel Trail overview – what to expect every step of the way
• Info about connecting trails so you can vary or extend your hike

This is a sensitive wilderness area. Learn how to Leave No Trace to keep the wilderness wild. Make sure you are prepared by bringing the 10 Essentials. Get ready for adventure with this checklist of things to do before every hike.

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support. -Taryn

Know Before You Go

Location: Grand Canyon National Park – South Rim (Grand Canyon Village)

Closest Cities: Flagstaff, Williams, or Tusayan (all in Arizona)

Fees: $35 per vehicle to enter Grand Canyon National Park (South Rim) – good for up to 7 consecutive days

Permits: No permits are required for a day hike of the Bright Angel Trail. (You only need a permit if you are camping overnight along the trail.)

Best Time of Year to Hike: Fall, winter, or spring

Best Time of Day to Start Hike: Early morning

Parking: Multiple parking areas near the trailhead

Facilities: Bathrooms and water refill stations near the trailhead, at parking lots, and along the trail

Lodging: There are lodges, hotels, and campgrounds both at the South Rim within Grand Canyon Village, and just outside the National Park borders.

Pets: Not allowed on the Bright Angel Trail

Weather: Summer temperatures are regularly over 100°F. In spring and fall, temperatures of 40-80°F are common. Winter temperatures are usually between 35°F and 60°F. Check the weather before your hike. Check out these tips for hiking in hot weather.

Tours: Going with a guide can make your hike safer and more enjoyable. There are several popular Bright Angel Trail hiking tours you can book.

A Quick Note on Safety

It is important to note that the official stance of the National Park Service recommends against hiking Rim to River in one day. While it is doable as a day hike, hiking the entire Bright Angel Trail should not be done on a whim, and should not be done unprepared. It requires months of intentional training, the proper gear, and the right mindset. Here are a couple key questions to ask yourself when preparing to hike the Bright Angel Trail:

• do you have experience hiking long distance day hikes?
• do you have experience hiking 4,000+ feet of elevation gain in one day?
• have you trained extensively / committed to training for the Bright Angel Trail?
• do you have a portable water system and backup filter system?
• do you have the proper food and snacks?
• do you have the proper gear, including a first aid kit, emergency shelter, daypack, and proper footwear?
• are you comfortable hiking in triple digit temperatures with minimal shade?
• have you researched the trail and know where water, bathrooms, and your break spots are located?
  

If you are not properly trained, or do not have experience with long distance day hikes of this nature, it is not recommended to hike the Bright Angel Trail in one day. Instead, consider an earlier turn around point, like roundtrip to Havasupai Gardens Campground and back.  

Bright Angel Trail Stats

Length: 19 miles (30.5 km) round-trip

Duration: 10-13 hours (including breaks)

Rating: Very Difficult

Highest Elevation: 7,200 feet (2,195 meters)

Lowest Elevation: 2,500 feet (762 meters)

Elevation Gain/Loss: 4,800 feet (1,463 meters)

Bright Angel Trail Map

Here’s a custom Bright Angel Trail map that we made just for you using Gaia GPS. It shows the locations of all the points of interest along the trail.

Bright Angel Trail Overview

The payoff for hiking the Bright Angel Trail is indescribable, but it comes with a proportional amount of challenge! 

Descending Bright Angel Trail to the bottom of the largest canyon in the United States and then hiking back up, otherwise known as a Rim to River hike, is a feat not to be underestimated. So before you take on the Bright Angel Trail, make sure you are prepared with the right training and the right gear!

This trail is long and challenging and hikers need to be rescued every year. If you aren’t sure about your abilities, consider turning around at Havasupai Gardens (or making the side trek to Plateau Point) instead of continuing down to the bottom of the Grand Canyon.

Parking

The Bright Angel trailhead is located in Grand Canyon National Park’s South Rim, in Grand Canyon Village. There are multiple parking lots in the vicinity of the trailhead. 

There are also free park shuttle buses that pick up at the South Rim Visitor’s Center and drop off at the Bright Angel trailhead. 

During peak season and peak hours, expect parking to fill up quickly. Just another good reason to arrive early and start hiking early!

Trailhead

Almost immediately, the breathtaking views begin the moment you step on the Bright Angel Trail.  It is also an immediate descent down. 

The first 4 miles of the Bright Angel Trail switchback down the South Rim canyon wall. The trail is well maintained here, and there are several places on this portion of the trail with bathrooms and water refill stations.

Mile 1.5 and Mile 3 Resthouses

The first place you will find bathrooms and water is at the Mile 1.5 Resthouse, which is 1.5 miles from the start of the Bright Angel Trail. 

The second is the 3 Mile Resthouse, which is 3 miles down from the start of the Bright Angel Trail. However, sometimes the resthouses are closed or the water is shut off, so it is always important to check the National Park’s website prior to starting your hike.

Regardless, always bring enough water with you, a minimum of 3 liters, and refill as often as you can.

After passing both Resthouses, hikers will continue descending until they reach the bottom of the South Rim wall, and the trail begins to level out. This brief level portion of the Bright Angel Trail leads to the lush canyon oasis of Havasupai Gardens Campground, a favorite among hikers!  

Havasupai Gardens (Mile 4.5)

Havasupai Gardens Campground (sometimes called Indian Garden) is located 4.5 miles from the start of the trail. While you may not expect to find green life, tall trees, and a babbling creek in the heart of this red rock canyon environment, that is exactly what you will find at Havasupai Gardens Campground.

With bathrooms, water, and shade, this is the perfect spot to take a quick break, refuel, and rehydrate, before continuing on. If you want to make the side trip to Plateau Point, it starts at Havasupai Gardens. (See the Connecting Trails section below for more details.)

Departing from Havasupai Gardens Campground, the trail stays relatively level and flat for a brief portion, as it parallels Garden Creek and shallow canyon walls. You will pass the turn-off for the Tonto Trail not long after leaving Havasupai Gardens. (See Connecting Trails below for more.)

There is another series of downhill switchbacks that carry you further deep into the Grand Canyon until the trail converges next to Pipe Creek.  

Hikers will continue to follow the trail as it weaves through the canyon parallel to Pipe Creek until the walls begin to open up. You can catch your first glimpse of the mighty Colorado River at Pipe Creek Resthouse and Pipe Creek Beach!  

Pipe Creek Resthouse (Mile 7.7)

Pipe Creek Resthouse and Beach are mile 7.7 from the trailhead. There are bathrooms and a water refill station here.

While the use of the word “beach” makes it sound like this is a good spot to wade into the river, do not do so!  The Colorado River and its current can be deceptively dangerous. 

Instead, continue on along the trail as it overlooks the Colorado River below and to the left.  Your next landmark looming in the distance is the Silver Suspension Bridge across the Colorado River!

Bright Angel Campground (Mile 9.5)

The Silver Suspension Bridge over the Colorado River carries you the rest of the way to the halfway point of your hike because after you cross it you will have arrived at Bright Angel Campground and the end of the Bright Angel Trail. 

This is not only the turnaround spot in this out-and-back hike, but it is also an ideal place to take a meal, rest, and hydration break in the shade of this surprisingly foliaged and protected location in the canyon. 

Top it off by taking your socks and shoes off and soaking your tired feet in the icy Bright Angel Creek that runs through the campground! Just be sure to pack a second pair. Bright Angel Campground marks mile 9.5 on the 19-mile round-trip Bright Angel Trail.

Starting the Return Trip

After departing Bright Angel Campground, hikers will head back the way they came, cross back over the Silver Suspension Bridge on the Colorado River. Hang a right to stay on the Bright Angel Trail. (Left will take you up the South Kaibab Trail – details on that below.) Get ready for the hardest part of the hike – the climb up and out!

This time, you will pass by the Colorado River on your right side, as you head back towards Pipe Creek Beach and Resthouse. 

For hikers that started at daybreak or early morning as recommended, this portion of the trail will likely be receiving a good amount of direct sunlight by now. It will warm up very quickly, even in the shoulder seasons of spring and fall. Take care to hydrate consistently from this point on! These tips for hiking in hot weather can help.

Things will stay majority flat with some minor sections of incline as you pass by Pipe Creek Beach and Resthouse, but remember those downhill switchbacks following Havasupai Gardens Campground? Well, you have to climb back up them now, and in stronger sun and warmer temperatures. 

Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! Dip your shirt or cooling towel in every creek crossing you encounter, and know that when you finish climbing up the switchbacks, you will be almost to Havasupai Gardens Campground and a welcome break spot!

Havasupai Gardens (Mile 14.5)

When you reach Havasupai Gardens Campground, you will be at mile 14.5. Since the final climb up the South Rim wall is approaching, it is a good idea to take a final break to rest, refuel, and rehydrate in the shade of Havasupai Gardens Campground. 

The good news is that the worst of the full sun and temperatures are over, as they will continue to lessen as the elevation gains, and the sun gets lower in the sky.  

The Final Climb to Mile 19

There is no easy or quick way to finish the last 4.5 miles up the Bright Angel Trail. It is a slow, gruelling climb up the South Rim switchbacks, but don’t forget to stop, rest, and appreciate the magnificent views over the canyon from this unique perspective, as you soak in the surrealness of what you have accomplished so far. 

And know that all the hard work is almost paying off!  If you look hard, you can even see the green spot below that is Havasupai Gardens Campground getting smaller and smaller!

Mile 19 concludes back at the top of a hard-earned climb of the South Rim wall, and the Bright Angel Trailhead!

Connecting Trails

While this guide is aimed at day hiking the Bright Angel Trail roundtrip point to point, it is possible to connect to other trails in the Grand Canyon when on the Bright Angel Trail.  

You can take the short Plateau Point spur trail from Havasupai Gardens Campground to enjoy a breathtaking lower viewpoint over the canyon. It is 1.5 miles each way from Havasupai Gardens to Platea Point. The trail is nearly flat.

You can also connect to the Tonto Trail just south of Havasupai Gardens Campground. The Tonto Trail is a popular backpacking route between Bright Angel Trailhead and Hermit Trailhead, for a total distance of 24.8 miles.

You can connect to the South Kaibab Trail on the south side of the Silver Suspension Bridge over the Colorado River. You can climb up and out of the South Rim via the 6.5-mile-long South Kaibab Trail, but it is important to note that there are no water sources on the South Kaibab Trail. That is why the Bright Angel Trail is highly recommended and safer.  Also, the South Kaibab Trail is steeper than the Bright Angel Trail, and therefore, slightly more difficult.

Finally, for those who want to take on one of the hardest long-distance day hikes in the country, you can connect to the North Kaibab Trail to complete a Rim to Rim hike.  A Rim to Rim hike is a 24-mile-long roundtrip hike from South to North Rim (or North to South Rim), via the Bright Angel Trail and the North Kaibab Trail, which join in Bright Angel Campground.

Thanks to Kristen for sharing this great guide to hiking the Bright Angel Trail in Grand Canyon National Park. You can read more about Kristen’s adventures on her website, Yonderlust Ramblings.

READ NEXT:

• Take an Epic Outdoors Arizona Road Trip
• 14 Best Outdoor Activities Near Las Vegas
• 15 Best Easy Hikes in Moab
• 10 Best Things to Do in Death Valley National Park
• 18 Awesome Things to Do in Joshua Tree National Park
• Tips for Hiking in Hot Weather
• Tips and Tricks for Hiking in the Desert

The post Hike the Bright Angel Trail in the Grand Canyon appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

In this post, Dawn Outdoors Contributor Shannon will guide you through the best outdoor adventures around Vegas. It includes thrilling hiking trails, serene water bodies, and adrenaline-fueled desert adventures. She is a Vegas local, so she knows all the best spots. Get ready to uncover a wilder side of Sin City!

This list of incredible outdoor adventures around Las Vegas includes:

• A Las Vegas outdoor activities map that shows the location of all the places mentioned in this post.
• Hiking and nature trails: hike at Red Rock Canyon, Valley of Fire, and Mount Charleston
• Water activities: paddle a kayak or SUP at Lake Mead, the Colorado River, and Lake Las Vegas
• Camping: Where to camp at Lake Mead, Valley of Fire, and Mount Charleston
• Extreme Adventures including mountain biking, ATVing, and horseback riding

This is a sensitive wilderness area. Learn how to Leave No Trace to keep the wilderness wild. Make sure you are prepared by bringing the 10 Essentials. Get ready for adventure with this checklist of things to do before every hike.

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support. -Taryn

Las Vegas Outdoor Activities Map

If you’re staying in Las Vegas, you’re probably wondering how far out of town you will need to go to get to outdoor adventures spots. We made a custom Las Vegas Outdoor Activities Google Map just for you that shows you all the places Shannon recommends in this post.

For some of these activities you can arrange transportation with a tour company, but for others, you’ll need to drive yourself. I like to use Discover Cars to book rental cars since it lets me compare prices across tons of companies.

Hiking and Nature Trails Near Las Vegas

Hiking at Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area

Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area offers a breathtaking landscape for avid hikers. This area, located just 30 minutes from Las Vegas, hosts some of the best hiking trails near the city. 

Once you enter the park, you’ll find a one-way 13-mile scenic drive that leads you to many of the trailheads for hiking and exploring. The trails range in difficulty so it’s easy to pick one suited to your fitness level or desired challenge.

For first-time visitors, swing by the Visitor Center. The friendly staff provide information about various recreation opportunities tailored specifically for outdoor enthusiasts like you! 

Here’s a quick rundown of some of the more popular trails:

• Moenkopi Loop is a popular pick. It offers varied terrain and stunning desert vistas on an easy trail.
• Calico Hills Trail gives hikers up-close views of brightly colored sandstone formations and hidden slot canyons.
• The Calico Tanks Trail includes a hidden water tank at the finish line – a true oasis in the desert. Explore further along this strenuous trail for amazing views of the Las Vegas Strip.
• Hiking to Turtlehead Peak gets your heart pumping while rewarding you with panoramic views of Las Vegas.
• Keystone Thrust Trail brings geology to life as it passes through an exposed fault line.
• The White Rock Mountain Loop is a strenuous trail that stands out with its different scenery, cooler temperatures, and tranquil picnic spots under pine trees.

Or go with an experienced guide to learn about the ecology and culture of the unique red rocks. This guided hiking tour offers you a choice between three different trails to suit your ability.

Exploring Valley of Fire State Park

Valley of Fire State Park provides a magnificent break from the city lights of Las Vegas. It stretches over a large area located in the Mojave Desert. The red and pink rock formations will catch your eye from miles away.

As you hike through the park, you’re likely to encounter 2000-year-old petroglyphs etched into massive red sandstone walls.

There numerous hikes and scenic drives here, but if you wish to indulge in more than just a day trip, there are lots of camping opportunities too.

Some of the popular attractions include:

• Atlatl Rock Trail: Wander along this short trail through the unique landscape and get a close-up view of ancient petroglyphs.
• Fire Wave Trail: A must-visit trail which is popular among hikers and photographers for its multicolored sandstone waves. (Note: This trail is closed between June and October each year due to extreme heat.)
• Rainbow Vista: A short yet rewarding hike with mesmerizing panoramic vistas of multi-colored sandstone.
• Pinnacles Loop: Dive deep into the heart of the park to witness breathtaking geological formations.
• White Domes: Engage in a moderate-level hiking experience with scenic views of canyon walls.

If you want the insider scoop on the best things to see, book a guided hiking tour. This Valley of Fire guided hike can be customized to your ablities and preferences.

Hiking at Mount Charleston

Mount Charleston, just outside Las Vegas, boasts an extensive network of over 60 well-maintained hiking trails. Starting from elevations above 6000 ft, these trails feature waterfalls, panoramic mountain views and the chance to see local wildlife along the trail.

Each hike provides unique encounters with Mount Charleston’s natural beauty while catering to different skill levels, ensuring that everyone can hike near Las Vegas.

Here is a quick guide to some of the hiking trails at Mt. Charleston:

• The Cathedral Rock Trail takes hikers on a scenic but challenging journey to the mountain’s summit with panoramic views of the countryside. 
• Mary Jane Falls is a fan-favorite amongst locals and tourists alike due to its beautiful waterfall view at the end of the trail. 
• Fletcher Canyon Trail presents beginners with a comfortable start into their hiking adventures around Mt Charleston. This trail is relatively easy and leads through picturesque scenery.
• The South Loop Trail is one of the more challenging hikes on Mount Charleston with its 8.5-mile climb. Even seasoned outdoors enthusiasts may find this half-above-10,000-feet hike demanding but rewarding with its stunning vistas.

Water Activities Near Las Vegas

Lake Mead National Recreation Area

Lake Mead National Recreation Area is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Las Vegas. Spanning 1.5 million acres and located in the Mojave Desert, the area offers a wide range of year-round activities.

Whether you enjoy boating, fishing, kayaking, or scuba diving, Lake Mead has it all. With its enormous size and beautiful surroundings, this recreation area is perfect for those looking to make the most of their outdoor adventure in Las Vegas.

This Lake Mead kayaking tour lets you explore the Boulder Islands and includes hotel pickup in Las Vegas.

Colorado River Rafting and Kayaking

The Colorado River near Las Vegas offers thrilling opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Here you can enjoy the stunning views of the Hoover Dam as you paddle down the Colorado River. This guided rafting tour takes you right to the base of the Hoover Dam.

You can also experience the adrenaline rush of whitewater rafting on the Colorado River. Book a day-long white water rafting tour in the Grand Canyon with pick-up from the Vegas Strip.

Here are a couple of other outdoor activities on the Colorado River.

Black Canyon National Water Trail

The Black Canyon National Water Trail, located just 45 minutes from Las Vegas, is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts. Stretching for 12 miles along the Colorado River, this trail offers paddlers an incredible opportunity to immerse themselves in solitude.

The route stars at the Hoover Dam. Along the way, you’ll encounter breathtaking scenery with sandy beaches, colorful caves, and even secluded hot springs. And if you’re up for more than just kayaking, there are plenty of opportunities for hiking and camping along the trail as well.

Emerald Cave

The Emerald Cave is a stunning natural wonder located on the Black Canyon Water Trail of the Colorado River. The only way to access the cave is by boat, whether it’s kayaking, canoeing, using a stand-up paddleboard (SUP), or your own motorized boat.

It is situated about 2 miles North of Willow Beach. If you don’t have your own kayak or boat, kayak tours to the Emerald Cave are highly recommended.

This beginner-friendly Emerald Cave kayak tour launches from Willow Beach includes transportation to and from the Strip.

Kayaking and Paddleboarding at Lake Las Vegas

Lake Las Vegas offers a range of exciting water activities, including kayaking and paddleboarding. You can rent kayaks or paddle boards from Lake Las Vegas Water Sports and spend a fun-filled day exploring the beautiful lake.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced paddler, this is the perfect place to enjoy these popular water sports. 

Camping Near Las Vegas

Boulder Beach Campground

Boulder Beach Campground is a fantastic camping spot near Las Vegas, located in the Lake Mead National Recreation Area. With its convenient location and stunning views of Lake Mead, this campground offers 154 spacious campsites that are perfect for both tents and large RVs.

You’ll be surrounded by picturesque desert vistas, creating a truly unforgettable outdoor experience. In addition to camping, visitors can also enjoy activities like boating, hiking, and kayaking right from the campground.

Camping at Valley of Fire State Park

Valley of Fire State Park is a great destination for camping near Las Vegas. With two campgrounds and 72 campsites, there are plenty of options to choose from. If you prefer RV camping, you’ll find sites with power and water hookups available at the park.

For those who enjoy tent camping, Arch Rock Campground is a popular choice. You can even go backcountry camping on approved roads within the park.

If you’re looking for information on when to go or how to book the best campsites, the Valley of Fire State Park website has everything you need for a memorable outdoor experience.

Mount Charleston Camping

Mount Charleston is an excellent choice for those looking to escape the Las Vegas summer heat. Located in the Spring Mountains National Recreation Area, Mount Charleston has four campgrounds, seven picnic areas, and remote areas for dispersed camping. 

With its stunning mountain landscapes, well-maintained trails, and temps that are 20 degrees cooler than the Las Vegas Valley, it’s a paradise for hikers and nature lovers.

The campgrounds provide various amenities, including picnic tables, fire pits, and clean restroom facilities. You can explore the surrounding area by exploring the many hiking trails or simply relax in the peaceful alpine atmosphere of this beautiful spot.

Whether you prefer tent camping or RV camping, Mount Charleston has something to offer for everyone looking to escape Las Vegas.

Adventure and Extreme Sports Near Las Vegas

Mountain Biking Near Red Rock Canyon

Looking for an adrenaline-pumping outdoor adventure near Las Vegas? Look no further than mountain biking near Red Rock Canyon. With over 20 mountain bike trails of varying difficulty levels, there’s something for everyone. 

From scenic rides through the stunning landscapes of Red Rock Canyon to heart-pounding downhill descents, this area offers a range of experiences. Some popular trails include the Mustang Trail, perfect for beginners, and the Blue Diamond Hill Trail, known for its breathtaking views. 

The easiest way to go mountain biking is with a guide. This half-day tour takes you along the Mustang Trail in Red Rock Canyon.

ATV Tours in the Desert

ATV tours in the desert surrounding Las Vegas are a thrilling option for adventure seekers. These tours provide an exciting outdoor experience, allowing you to explore the beautiful southwest desert on an ATV.

You can choose from different options, such as riding a 450cc or 700cc ATV, with certified guides available to help you select the appropriate vehicle based on your experience and size.

Most tours include complimentary pick-up and drop-off services from your hotel. The tours also include lunch, refreshments, and safety gear to ensure a comfortable and secure adventure.

Popular destinations for off-road ATV tours include Eldorado Canyon and the Techatticup Gold Mine, offering an opportunity to combine adrenaline-pumping rides with historical exploration.

Here’s a few tours we recommend:

• This small-group ATV tour takes you through sand dunes. It has a 5-star rating!
• If you want an exclusive experience, this ATV tour lets you ride on a private trail in the Mojave Desert.
• To ride with your friends, book this side-by-side UTV tour. The four-passenger UTVs include full face helmets with intercoms so you can chat as you ride.

Horseback riding

Horseback riding is another fun outdoor adventure that you can enjoy during your trip to Las Vegas. It offers a unique way to explore the scenic desert landscapes surrounding the city. Whether you’re an experienced rider or a beginner, horseback riding in Las Vegas is a great option for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.

One of the most popular tours is a sunset horseback ride with a barbecue after. You’ll ride through Red Rock Canyon, then watch the sunset while you chow down on BBQ around the campfire.

If you want to start your day on horseback, book the Morning Maverick Ride. It includes a cowboy-style breakfast after your ride.

Las Vegas offers an abundance of outdoor activities that cater to every adventurous spirit. With its central location and easy access to national parks and hot springs, Las Vegas truly is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.

Thanks to Shannon for sharing this great list of the best outdoor activities near Las Vegas. For more Vegas insider knowledge, check out ThreeDaysinVegas.com where Shannon is a regular contributor.

READ NEXT:

• Take an Epic Outdoors Arizona Road Trip
• Hike the Bright Angel Trail in the Grand Canyon
• 15 Best Easy Hikes in Moab
• 10 Best Things to Do in Death Valley National Park
• 18 Awesome Things to Do in Joshua Tree National Park
• 10 Under-the-Radar US National Parks to Add to Your Bucket List
• Things to Do in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
• 25 Things to do in Grand Teton National Park
• 70 Things to do in Yellowstone National Park

The post 14 Best Outdoor Activities Near Las Vegas appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

In this epic outdoors Arizona road trip itinerary, you will learn the best places to hike, kayak, eat, camp, and more as you make your way from Phoenix all the way to northern Arizona. 

Dawn Outdoors contributor Jess from Unearth the Voyage has spent tons of time road tripping, hiking, and camping in the American Southwest, so you can trust that she’s got all the inside info on the places to stop on an Arizona road trip.

This is a sensitive wilderness area. Learn how to Leave No Trace to keep the wilderness wild. Make sure you are prepared by bringing the 10 Essentials. Get ready for adventure with this checklist of things to do before every hike.

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support. -Taryn

Arizona Road Trip Itinerary

This epic outdoor-focused Arizona road trip starts in the capital of Phoenix. This is where you can rent a car or campervan/RV for your trip. I use Discover Cars to book rental cars since it lets you compare rates across tons of rental companies.

Along the way you’ll stop in:

• Sedona
• Flagstaff
• The Grand Canyon 
• Page

I’ve put together a custom Arizona Road Trip Map in Google Maps for you that includes every single place Jess recommends in this post. Click through to zoom in.

This road trip across Arizona covers about 400 miles. You could see some of the sights in as little as five days, but to really savor the trip and see everything, Jess recommends taking at least 10 days.

This road trip itinerary is designed to do on your own with a rental car. But if you prefer, you can book a guided tour. This five-star-rated small-group tour goes to both Sedona and the Grand Canyon from Phoenix.

Things to Do on This Epic Arizona Road Trip

Sedona

Your first stop on your outdoor Arizona road trip will be Sedona. There are so many fun outdoor adventures to be had in Sedona including hiking, swimming in swimming holes, off-roading, and visiting vortexes.

Soldier Pass Trail

There are a crazy amount of incredible trails to choose from in Sedona, but one of the best hikes is the Soldier Pass Trail. This hike is a total of 4.5 miles. But if you want to add an off-shoot to the really neat cave along the way add an extra mile to your hiking stats. 

It’s also important to know that the parking lot for this trail is really small and fills up quickly. Jess recommends either getting there really early in the morning, or parking at ​​Jordan Road Trailhead. It has a few more spots but will add another 0.5 miles to your overall hike.

The hike itself starts out with incredible views over the red cliffs Sedona is famous for. You will also pass by the Devil’s Sinkhole which is a really cool feature of this trail as well. 

Grasshopper Point Swimming Hole

After you work up a sweat from your hike, head to Grasshopper Point for a dip in the cool Oak Creek. This area of Oak Creek is absolutely gorgeous and has some outstanding views that are a bit different from the red rock scenery you see in Sedona. 

It’s a short hike down to the water. Once you get to the bottom of the hill you’ll have to do some hopping about on some small boulders to make it to the river. Make sure you bring some good water shoes or hiking boots. 

Schnebly Hill Road

Schnebly Hill Road is one of the best 4×4 roads in Sedona to see some really spectacular views and enjoy the challenge of driving a tough 4×4 road. 

This road also takes you to one of the strongest vortexes in Sedona, the Schnebly Hill vortex. The vortex is located at the top of one of the highest plateaus in Sedona where you can look out and see views for miles.

What is a vortex? These special spots are places where energy is believed to be either entering into or projecting out of the earth. They are found in sacred sites around the world like Machu Picchu, Stonehenge, and the Great Pyramids. Some people believe that the spiralling energy at these vortexes can lead to spiritual transformations. There are several vortexes around Sedona.

If you don’t have a 4×4, you can go on a jeep adventure tour with a local guide instead. This five-star-rated jeep tour visits Cathedral Rock, Thunder Mountain, Bear Mountain, and more.

Flagstaff

Flagstaff is a great town to stop off in and fuel up for the rest of your adventures to come. It is a fairly large town so there are lots of groceries stores and outdoor stores to grab anything you might need for the rest of your trip.

Flagstaff also has an array of delicious restaurants and breweries. Head to Mother Road Brewing for lunch and a taste of beer before continuing on to the Grand Canyon for your next stop. 

Historic downtown Flagstaff also has a reputation for being haunted! The best way to explore Flagstaff’s creepy past is with a local guide. The popular hour-long Downtown Flagstaff Haunted History tour visits all the best ghost-vibe sites.

Grand Canyon National Park

The next fantastic stop on this road trip is the Grand Canyon. Grand Canyon National Park is located 1.5 hours north of Flagstaff and is a beautiful scenic drive to get there.

Once you’re at the Grand Canyon, some of the best things to do is head out on a hike and/or rent bikes and bike along the rim of the canyon. 

Bright Angel Trail

The Bright Angel Trail is the most popular hike at the Grand Canyon’s south rim. It’s a trail that leads down to the bottom of the magnificent canyon straight to the Colorado River. It’s 9.8 miles (one way) to get to the bottom of the canyon. Many people will do this trail as an overnight hike to camp at the bottom at Bright Angel Campground. Then, they hike back up the next day.

If you’re not into the idea of hiking so much, it’s totally possible to hike just a small section of the Bright Angel trail. There is actually a great turn-around point at 1.5 miles down the trail at a resthouse. This still offers incredible views out, over, and down into the canyon without having to hike nearly 10 miles straight up a very steep trail. 

The terrain and heat can be challenging, so going with a guide is a great option. This day-long Bright Angel Trail guided hike can be customized to suit your ability and preferences.

Biking Hermit Road 

Renting a bike and biking along Hermit Road is another one of the best things you can do at the Grand Canyon. This 7-mile paved road has a bike trail that meanders along the rim of the Grand Canyon. The road is actually closed to traffic besides the Grand Canyon shuttle, so you won’t have to worry about any traffic while you’re enjoying your views. 

Once you get to the end of the road make sure to check out Hermit’s Rest. It’s a cute little shop and viewpoint area where you can grab an ice cream. From here you can decide to either bike back or put your bikes on the shuttle and ride back. 

Page

Next up on this epic Arizona road trip is Page, a small town in northern Arizona right next to the Utah border. Page is 2.5 hours north of the south rim of the Grand Canyon and is a fairly easy scenic drive to get there.

Even though it may not seem like it, there are a ton of outdoor things to do in Page. Jess recommends hiking to the Horseshoe Bend overlook, checking out the incredible Upper or Lower Antelope Canyon, and kayaking on Lake Powell.

Horseshoe Bend

Horseshoe Bend is a huge canyon carved by the Colorado River that flows in the shape of, you guessed it, a horseshoe. The hike to see the overlook is 1.5 miles round trip and is fairly flat. However, it can get brutally hot in this area of the country so it’s best to check out Horseshoe Bend early in the morning before the sun is high in the sky. 

Antelope Canyon

Antelope Canyon is one of the most incredible slot canyons in the entire world and is definitely something to not miss when on an Arizona road trip. The slot canyon is formed by flash floods, which created the crack in the ground with the classic smooth, tall walls you can see today.  

Antelope Canyon is located on Navajo land and is sacred to the Navajo people. To avoid the canyon being vandalized and for safety reasons (flash floods are very common in this area) you have to go on a tour to see the slot canyons. There are a ton of amazing Antelope Canyon tours to choose from. Be sure to make reservations in advance as they book up quickly. 

Kayaking Lake Powell

If you are looking for a different kind of adventure, you can actually kayak to Antelope Canyon from the Antelope Point Marina on Lake Powell. The trip to get to Antelope Canyon isn’t the easiest, so make sure that everyone in your group is able to kayak a long distance. 

Once you reach the mouth of where Antelope Canyon connects to Lake Powell, you can park your kayak and hike up into the canyon to see some beautiful slot canyons without a guided tour. 

Where To Stay on this Arizona Road Trip

Sedona

There are a ton of places to stay in Sedona, but The Wilde Resort and Spa is one of the best places in the whole area. The views from the rooms are incredible and the hotel has a small boutique-like feel to it.

If you’re looking to camp while in Sedona, one of the best campgrounds is Pine Flat Campground. It’s located right outside of Sedona in Oak Creek Canyon. This campground is surrounded by incredible scenery and has some really neat hiking trails nearby. 

Grand Canyon 

The south rim of the Grand Canyon has a ton of options for places to stay. One of the best places to stay is The Grand Hotel. It has a ton of amenities such as a workout room, a restaurant and bar, and a gorgeous lodge-like atmosphere. 

If you’re looking to camp while visiting the Grand Canyon there aren’t a ton of options besides RV parks or the National Park campgrounds. Mather Campground located inside the park is the largest campground and has some great sites. Campgrounds here can book up really far in advance to make sure to grab reservations early. 

Page

Page doesn’t have a ton of unique properties to stay at, but they do have some nice new hotels located in town. One of the best hotels is Hyatt Place. It has really nice views from the rooms as well as the pool. They have a nice bar on site as well. 

If you’re looking to camp while in Page you can camp right next to Lake Powell at Lone Rock Beach just over the Utah border. Just make sure your camper/car can make it through deep sand.

If you’re looking for another option, check out The Canyons RV Park located right in town and only 10 minutes from Antelope Canyon. 

Thanks to Jess for sharing this incredible Arizona road trip itinerary. You can read more of Jess’ adventures on her website, Unearth the Voyage.

READ NEXT:

• Hike the Bright Angel Trail in the Grand Canyon
• 14 Best Outdoor Activities Near Las Vegas
• 15 Best Easy Hikes in Moab
• 10 Best Things to Do in Death Valley National Park
• 10 Under-the-Radar US National Parks to Add to Your Bucket List
• 9 Best Washington Road Trips
• 18 Awesome Things to Do in Joshua Tree National Park
• 25 Things to do in Grand Teton National Park
• 70 Things to do in Yellowstone National Park
• Things to Do in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
• How to Take an Epic Canadian National Parks Road Trip

The post Take an Epic Outdoors Arizona Road Trip appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

Rasika says “This was our first time hiking through a cave. While it was exciting, it was also intimidating! The hike to and from the cave was also fun; we loved seeing these captivating rock formations that were formed due to volcanic eruptions and erosions from water and wind over time. If you’re visiting California, Pinnacles National Park is a must-do on your itinerary as it shows you how nature changes over the years.”

Read on for Rasika’s full Bear Gulch Cave Trail guide. It includes:

• Trail information you’ll need to know for hiking the Bear Gulch Cave Trail
• The best time to hike through the Bear Gulch Cave Trail
• How to get to Pinnacles National Park and the Bear Gulch Cave trailhead
• What makes the Bear Gulch Cave Trail so special; is it worth hiking? 
• Hiking directions for the Bear Gulch Cave Trail

This is a sensitive wilderness area. Learn how to Leave No Trace to keep the wilderness wild. Make sure you are prepared by bringing the 10 Essentials. Get ready for adventure with this checklist of things to do before every hike.

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support. -Taryn

Bear Gulch Cave Trail Basics

This trail takes you through the Bear Gulch Cave and finishes at the Bear Gulch Reservoir. The Bear Gulch Cave is one of the two talus caves in Pinnacles National Park. When huge boulders fall into a canyon or a mountain slope, the space underneath is a talus cave.

This isn’t your average hike; hiking through this cave requires your full attention as you will be moving through some narrow passages with low ceilings. Even though some of the areas are narrow, it is a two-way hike so be prepared to see hikers coming back and make way when necessary. Follow the arrows to stay on the correct route.

Make sure that you’re packing the 10 essentials when hiking this trail: flashlights, water bottles, and a first aid kit in case you hit your head/feet on one of the rocks. (They should all be on your California packing list anyway!)

Is the Bear Gulch Cave Trail Worth Hiking?

So, with all these precautions, is it really worth hiking the Bear Gulch Cave Trail? That’s what we thought when we were preparing for the hike. But yes, it was worth it!

If you’ve ever wanted to visit a bat cave, this is it. Townsend’s big-eared bats reside in this cave. Plus, there are 16 species of bats in the Bear Gulch Cave. The trail takes you through an immersive cave experience and you get into survival mode.

After you exit the cave, you hike up to a scenic view of the Bear Gulch Reservoir, the second-best attraction in the park after the Bear Gulch Cave. 

Bear Gulch Cave Trail Information

Distance: 1.5 miles (2.4 km) round trip (2.2 miles/3.5 km total including the connector trail from the parking lot to the Bear Gulch Cave Trail) 

Elevation Gain: 240 feet (73 meters)

Time: 2-3 hours

Difficulty: Moderate

Season: Bear Gulch Cave is closed between mid-May and mid-July due to the bats’ pupping season.

Toilets: Available at the Bear Gulch Day Use Area parking lot 

Pets: No pets are allowed on the trails. Pets are allowed on-leash in the parking lots, picnic areas, and the Pinnacles Campground. 

Fee/Passes: $30 7-day vehicle entrance fee; free if you have the $80 America the Beautiful Pass or the $55 Pinnacles National Park Annual Pass. There are also National Park Service Fee Free days when you don’t have to pay a fee to enter the park.

Maps: Use this Pinnacle National Park map to stay on track. You can also buy a Pinnacles National Park topographic map.

Rules: Stay on established trails. Bicycles are prohibited on all trails. Drones aren’t allowed. It is not allowed to feed, approach, or hunt wildlife in the park. 

Best Times to Hike to Bear Gulch Cave Trail

The best time to hike the Bear Gulch Cave Trail is during spring or fall. This is because the entire cave will be open during the last weeks of March and October. They may open up earlier but that’s based on the presence of bats.

The lower section of the cave is open from April to May, July to September, and November to February.

The entire cave is closed between mid-May through mid-July when the maternal colony of bats raises their babies. Make sure to check the status of the caves on the National Parks Service site before planning a hike on the Bear Gulch Cave Trail.

Apart from the seasonality of the Bear Gulch Cave, spring and fall are great times to see the colorful scenery around the park. Visit during spring to see the vibrant wildflowers blooming or visit during the fall to admire the fall foliage. Our fall trip was gorgeous with orange leaves all around and the air being chill enough to feel comfortable to spend our whole day at the park.

While you can still visit the lower sections of the cave during the winter and spring, winter lacks that colorful scenery and summers can be as hot as 100 Fahrenheit (or more!).

If you plan to visit during the summer, please note that it can get very hot and very dry in the park. Make sure you are ready and have the required materials to hike under that heat. 

How To Get To Bear Gulch Cave Trail

Even though Pinnacles National Park is a relatively small park compared to other U.S. National Parks, the park has 2 sections: the East side and the West side. But they don’t connect via road. They only connect through a hiking trail. The Bear Gulch Cave Trail is located on the east side of the park.

If you’re traveling from the San Francisco/San Jose/Oakland area, you will need to take US-101 North, then CA-25 through Hollister to get to the east entrance. If you’re traveling from the Los Angeles area, take I-5 and CA-25 through Bitterwater. 

Make sure you get gas before entering the park. You can fuel up in Hollister; that’s 33 miles away from the Bear Gulch Day Use Area parking lot. The nearest parking lot is the Bear Gulch Day Use Area parking lot. Click here for Google maps directions.

However, if it is crowded (weekends and holidays), you might be directed to park near the Pinnacles Visitor Center. However, if you continue to drive and look around, you might find an open spot in/near the parking lot. That’s what we did.

While the park does get crowded, the trail only takes a few hours, so you will eventually find a parking spot as hikers return to their cars. 

Bear Gulch Cave Trail Hiking Directions

Once you’ve parked at the Bear Gulch parking lot, make sure to use the restrooms before starting the trail as it can take 2-3 hours to get back. The Bear Gulch Cave Trail doesn’t start at the parking lot. You will have to hike the Moses Spring Trail first to access the Bear Gulch Cave Trailhead. 

You’ll hike around 0.5 miles until you reach the Moses Spring trailhead. Turn left to start the trail (the trail on the right is the Rim Trail.) On this trail, you’ll walk under a few mini caves. We also saw a couple of rock climbers climbing nearby peaks. The trail takes you through incredible pinnacle formations towering among the trees.

You will know when you’re near the cave entrance since you can smell and feel the dampness in the cave. It’ll also feel chillier, and you’ll see rocks covered with moss. Make sure to have your flashlight on. 

The cave starts out wide and after some time, the cave walls narrow in. You’ll see white arrows that show you how to hike through the cave. There are puddles in the cave so take your time in crossing them. You will have to bend through some areas and near-crawl in others. Once you exit the cave, you’ll come across a long flight of stairs. Take the stairs to a dramatic view of the Bear Gulch Reservoir, a lake surrounded by pinnacles. 

After taking a break at the Bear Gulch Reservoir, you have two options on how to hike back to the parking lot. Either you can turn around and hike back through the cave or you can take the Rim Trail that goes around the cave.

If you want to do the cave hike again and/or are running short on time, hike back on the Bear Gulch Cave Trail.

If you want to explore more of the park (Rim Trail has some gorgeous mountain views!) and/or have some extra time, take the Rim Trail. You will have to hike up then hike down this trail but the views make it worth it. The Rim Trail then connects to the High Peaks Trail that has a few switchbacks. The High Peaks Trail then connects to the Moses Spring Trail and then it’s the same hike back to the parking lot. 

I hope this guide helps you plan for your hike to Bear Gulch Cave Trail. If you’re visiting Pinnacles National Park for the day, I recommend hiking this trail then staying back in/near the park to stargaze at night. You’d be surprised at just how beautiful Pinnacles National Park can be at nighttime as well! -Rasika, Bae Area and Beyond

MORE OUTDOOR ADVENTURES IN CALIFORNIA:

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• Things to Do in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
• 15 Awesome Things to Do in Joshua Tree National Park
• Best Places to Stay Near Joshua Tree

The post Hike the Bear Gulch Cave Trail in Pinnacles National Park appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

Many people head to the Rockies to ski and snowboard, but that is not the only thing to do here! There are so many amazing things to do in Canmore in winter.

Yes, there are unique outdoor activities such as skiing, snowshoeing, or skating – but there are also winter tours, beautiful scenery, fantastic food and drink, and cozy places to hang out.

Dawn Outdoors contributor Bailey used to live in Canmore, so you can trust that she’s got all the insider info on what to do in winter.

If you’re looking for the best winter vacation destination in Canada, try Canmore! Read on to discover what Bailey recommends as the best activities to do in Canmore this winter.

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support. -Taryn

Hit the Slopes

Canmore is the perfect place to base yourself for a ski holiday in the Canadian Rockies. With four different ski resorts located under an hour’s drive away, you have lots of choices for where to go!   

The four different places you can go downhill skiing and snowboarding easily from Canmore include Lake Louise, Mt Norquay, Sunshine Village, and Bailey’s favorite, Nakiska!  

Nakiska is Bailey’s top choice for a few reasons, with the first being that it’s not located within Banff National Park. That means that you don’t need a Parks Canada Pass to visit (with the others you do), and it’s generally less busy. There is no traffic to get there, no struggle for parking, just a beautiful leisurely 35-minute drive from Canmore through the Kananaskis and right to Nakiska!  

Besides all that, Nakiska offers some incredible mountain views from their chairlifts and mountain lodges. There are 79 different marked runs, four chair lifts, two magic carpets, and a tube park! 

Ski and snowboard passes are reasonably priced and start as low as $89 per day for adults with discounted child rates and multi-day passes available. You can also take lessons at Nakiska or rent gear if needed!

Relaxing Hot Springs

It can get cold in Canmore during the winter! So warming up in some relaxing hot springs is a must-do while in the area. The Banff Upper Hot Springs is located about a 30-minute drive away and is a great place to relax for the day. They cost just $8.48 to enter and have a soothing, 100% natural mineral water pool to enjoy. 

If you’re up for a more extended trip, perhaps overnight, you can also check out Radium Hot Springs (70km away). Radium is a great town to explore, and the hot springs here are unique!  

READ NEXT: Your Guide to the Best Hot Springs in Canada

Grotto Canyon Icewalk

Bailey’s favorite winter ice walk in Canmore has to be Grotto Canyon. You’ll need ice cleats or crampons to complete this 4.4km hike because you need to hike over and along and on a frozen river.

The trail begins just outside of Canmore from a parking lot at Grotto Mountain Pond. It will take you around 1.5 hours to hike the canyon each way from the parking lot, especially if you allow time to explore the canyon and take some photos. The start is a little dull because it takes 30 minutes of walking on a flat trail before you arrive in Grotto Canyon – where the fun begins.  

Once in Grotto Canyon, follow the frozen stream until you reach a gorgeous frozen waterfall. From here, you can either keep walking down the canyon or turn right and explore a small cave and another frozen waterfall that’s popular with ice climbers. Along the trail, there are also some indigenous pictographs on the canyon walls. 

For those who want to learn more, you can also join this Grotto Canyon Icewalk tour. The tour only costs $88 and includes a hot chocolate to warm up and ice cleats (which will save you buying them.)   

Try Ice Climbing

If walking on ice through Grotto Canyon isn’t crazy enough for you, Then be sure to join an ice climbing tour! Ice climbing is certainly an adrenaline-pumping activity in winter and one that’s famous in Canmore.  

Ice climbing is dangerous without the right experience, so it’s essential to join a tour.  

This full-day ice climbing tour is suited to complete beginners as well as the more experienced. On the tour, an expert ice climbing guide will teach you the basics and have you climbing a frozen waterfall in no time. The best part is, the tour only costs $186 and lasts 8 hours. You will need to drive yourself to Banff beforehand, though.  

Ice Skating

Ice skating is a quintessential Canadian winter experience and a must-do in Canmore. Lake Louise is one of the most popular places for ice skating near Canmore. Here you can skate on a frozen lake in the most beautiful setting, completely free. The only catch is you need to bring your own skates. If you don’t have any, you can rent them from the hotel.   

There are also many outdoor skating rinks in Canmore, including The Pond Natural Ice Surface, Larch Outdoor Rink, Canmore Nordic Center, and the Three Sisters Sports Complex Ice Surface. All the rinks are free, so bring your skates and go! 

On top of that, you can also go wild ice skating on some lakes. Gap Lake is a popular wild ice skating spot with locals that I’ve had the pleasure of skating. You need to visit during a period with little snow and high winds when the ice is bare but be sure to check because this is an incredible experience. Be advised, ice skating on unmanaged frozen lakes is dangerous without the proper knowledge and experience. 

If it’s too cold or you’re just learning to skate, you can also check out indoor skating rinks around Canmore or Banff in winter at the recreation centers. It may not be as beautiful, but the ice is smooth and easier to skate on as a beginner. In addition, skating indoors is an affordable activity, with rentals usually costing less than $10 per day. 

Cozy-up Fireside

If you’re visiting Canmore in winter, it can get pretty cold! So finding somewhere to warm-up is a must! Stay at a hotel with cozy fireplaces to relax around like the Grande Rockies Resort. There are also epic mountain views right from the comfort of the hotel! Bailey has stayed here on multiple occasions, and says she loves it. 

Or, if you’re out for dinner, there are plenty of cozy restaurants to visit. A favorite of Bailey’s during winter is the restaurant at the Georgetown Inn. This English pub-style restaurant is stunning on the inside and offers a comfortable experience with a fireplace and old wooden bar.  

Go Winter Hiking

Hiking is without a doubt, one of the best winter activities in Canmore. Although winter conditions do bring some hazards, you can choose to hike easy trails around town. The best winter hiking trails in Canmore are Policeman’s Creek, Quarry Lake Loop, Bow River Loop, and Grassi Lakes. All are very easy and can be completed safely in winter. 

Grassi Lakes is easily the most popular of the four winter hikes in Canmore, and Bailey says she loves hiking the trail in winter. Not only is it much less busy but it’s even more beautiful! Just be sure to bring crampons because it’s very icy on the way up. The Grassi Lakes Trail takes around 2 hours to complete and is 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) each way. 

If you’re just looking to enjoy a leisurely walk around town, the Policeman’s Creek Boardwalk is a top choice. This short walk takes visitors along Policeman’s Creek via a boardwalk/ path to enjoy magnificent views of the surrounding area. There are also plenty of park benches along the way to enjoy the views. I love doing this walk with a coffee in hand! The entire walk is 4.2 kilometers long but my favorite section begins near The Drake heading south towards Spring Creek Drive.

Another hike for the more experienced is Ha Ling Peak. Bailey hiked the trail in winter and had a fantastic time. This trail is rated as moderate/difficult in winter and requires a good quality pair of crampons – especially if you want to summit the peak.

If you want a local to show you around, consider booking a private Wilderness and Wildlife Hiking Tour. Your guide will design a three-hour hike that meets the ability of your group and is has the best seasonal wildlife viewing opportunities.

READ NEXT: What to Wear Winter Hiking and Snowshoeing

Eat at a Delicious Restaurant

Canmore has so many options when it comes to places to eat, and after all the outdoor activities on this list, you’ll be hungry! Bailey has a lot of favorites in Canmore, so she hopes you have time to try them all. 

When it comes to cafes, you really must try Communitea Cafe. They serve the best pad Thai Bailey has ever had as well as good coffee. 

For a hearty winter meal that’s cheap, head to The Rose and Crown or The Drake. These pubs aren’t fancy, but with great deals and huge portions, you’ll love them. 

If you’re looking for a fancy night out, Bailey loves Sauvage (formerly called Tapas Canmore). Elegant, delicious, but a little pricy. Or, head to The Sensory Restaurant & Lounge and try the chef’s 3-course meal paired with wine – perfect for a date night. Another favorite is the Iron Goat, but Bailey mentions more on them below! 

Go Snowshoeing

Snowshoeing is one way to turn ordinary hiking into a lot more fun! With snowshoes, you can explore trails that you wouldn’t otherwise be able to in Canmore during the winter months. 

You can rent snowshoes and explore trails on your own in places like the Canmore Nordic Center. Snowshoe rentals start at $20 per day at Gear Up Sport in Canmore. They rent winter boots for snowshoeing too.

However, if you don’t have experience hiking in the winter with snowshoes, then it is best to go on a guided snowshoe tour if you want to access any other remote trails. Hiking in deep snow can be dangerous, especially for those who don’t know the area! A guided half-day snowshoe tour in Kananaskis Country near Canmore will run you about $115.  

READ NEXT: Snowshoeing Safety: 14 Ways to Get into Trouble and How to Prevent Them

READ NEXT: What to Wear Winter Hiking and Snowshoeing

READ NEXT: The Best Boots For Snowshoeing

Attend the Canmore Winter Carnival

This annual event celebrates all-things Canmore in winter! The Canmore Winter Carnival typically runs at the end of February and is a chance for the community to come together and enjoy all things that make Canmore so great. There are tons of indoor and outdoor events such as ice carving, log sawing, and beavertail eating competitions. It’s a fabulous family-friendly event with a lot of activities for kids to enjoy. 

Enjoy Local Drinks

If you want to know where to find the best cocktails in town, head to Wild Life Distillery. The boutique distillery is located on the outskirts of town in the Canmore industrial area. It’s the best place in Canmore to try a cocktail you’ve never even heard of made with high-quality vodka and gin. They also serve lots of classics for those who know what they like. 

The cocktail menu is constantly changing (the reason we can’t recommend a favorite), so there’s likely something new to try even if you’ve been before. The best part is the cocktails are priced right, with a 2.5-ounce craft cocktail costing only $12. 

When it’s time to leave, you can even grab a bottle of your favorite liquor to go. The bottles make great gifts, and there are a few different varieties to choose from!  

If you are looking for beer then you’re in luck too. In Canmore, there are a few different craft breweries that you can check out. Canmore Brewing Co is probably the most popular, whereas Grizzly Paw Brewing has the best restaurant and bar. Blake Brewhouse & Distillery also has their own spirits to offer as well as beer!

Go Fat Biking

Riding a bike in winter conditions can be challenging. However, that’s where fat bikes come in. Fat bikes are pretty much regular bikes, except they have fat tires built for riding through snow. They also come with hand warmers because, you know, it’s cold! 

In Canmore, you can easily rent bikes in town and then head off to explore. There are bike trails all around Canmore including ones at the Nordic Centre. For something a little different, ride the Legacy Trail to Banff and then catch the bus back to Canmore from there. 

Johnston Canyon Icewalk

Another perfect way to enjoy the spectacular wintertime scenery in Canmore is to experience the Johnston Canyon Icewalk. This famous attraction is a must-do any time of the year, but in my opinion, winter is the best time to go. 

The Johnston Canyon Icewalk starts around 45 minutes from Canmore along the scenic Bow Valley Parkway. From the small parking lot, you need to walk along a 2.5-kilometer boardwalk to the upper falls. You’ll then return via the same path. 

Along the way, you’ll get fabulous views of the canyon, and there is also a lower waterfall 1.3-kilometers into the walk. 

If you want to learn more about the canyon or don’t have your own ice cleats, you can also book a Johnston Canyon Icewalk tour with Discover Banff Tours. These tours last for 4 hours and include an expert local guide to teach you all about the canyon and Banff National Park. On top of that, you’ll get transport to and from the canyon as well as all your equipment. For all that, you’ll only pay $88!  

Eat at the Iron Goat

The Iron Goat Pub & Grill is one of Bailey’s favorite restaurants in Canmore. Although not the cheapest place to eat in Canmore, it’s perfect for those looking for a dining experience with a beautiful winter atmosphere by the fire. 

Her favorite dishes are the blackened salmon and the cioppino pasta. The food is made from fresh ingredients, so it’s tough to beat the quality at the Iron Goat. On top of that, the service is something special. 

The Iron Goat is located a little out of the central area on Canmore; however, it’s worth the short drive, and the views from the restaurant are magnificent. They are open for both lunch and dinner from 11 am to 10 pm. 

Drive the Bow Valley Parkway

The Bow Valley Parkway is a famous scenic drive that travels from Banff to Lake Louise beside the main highway. 

All up, the Bow Valley Parkway is 50 kilometers long and, without stopping, takes around 1 hour to drive. With that said, if you want to experience the best stops on this highway, allow 3 to 4 hours.  

Johnston Canyon is one of the stops along the Bow Valley Parkway (mentioned above), and below are a few others I love! 

Castle Mountain Viewpoint – It won’t be hard for you to spot Castle Mountain. This mountain range is famous and can be seen from miles away. To get a closer look, visit the viewpoint on the Bow Valley Parkway and admire those epic views!  

Morant’s Curve – Morant’s Curve is one of my favorite places to photograph in winter. Be sure to visit the viewpoint for a perfect postcard photo.  

Moose Meadows – Moose Meadows is a small meadow within the Bow Valley. It’s visited regularly by wildlife so keep your camera ready!  

As you can see, Bailey has lots of great ideas for awesome winter activities in Canmore that will keep even the busiest of travellers happy. Have questions about the best winter activities in Canmore? Then leave a comment below! 

READ NEXT:

• Best Small Towns in Canada for Outdoor Adventures
• 9 Beautiful Reasons to Visit Banff in the Fall
• Your Guide to the Best Hot Springs in Canada
• 37 Things to do in Whistler in Winter
• How to Take an Epic Canadian National Parks Road Trip
• What to Wear Winter Hiking and Snowshoeing

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