Katie sits atop the Zion Canyon Overlook

Katie Arenas grew up with an appreciation for the outdoors through immersive travel with family, friends, and as a solo traveler. She let her passion for active outdoor adventure lead her all the way to her role at Off the Beaten Path, where she helps like-minded adventurers explore the world. Katie and her husband had the opportunity to travel with OBP so she could connect with what the true travel experience is like for one of our travelers. In this interview, Katie recounts her unforgettable exploration of unique landscapes in Utah on a Small Group Adventure to the Desert Southwest, offering a glimpse into the transformative power of guided travel. Here is what she has to say:

Q: How did you get started traveling?

Katie: “I’ve been an avid traveler all my life – from childhood trips with my family to venturing on my own in my early twenties, starting with a memorable trip to Iceland! For the past year, I’ve been fortunate to combine my passion for travel with my work at OBP as a travel planner. I joined a Small Group Adventure “Zion and Beyond”** in September, experiencing an Off the Beaten Path journey firsthand.”

**Zion and Beyond is a retired trip. We have since adapted this trip itinerary, and created “Utah’s Mighty Five“. This journey is even more cohesive and immerses our travelers more deeply in the Desert Southwest.

Hiking in the Willis Narrows, Grand Staircase-Escalante NM

Q: Why do you think travel is essential?

Katie: “We get to go to new places, connect with new people, and experience completely different cultures and ways of life. We compare them with our lives back home – what’s unique, and what’s the same. I think travel shows us both the rich diversity of the world while reminding us that we’re all just humans, with more in common than we might think.”

Q: Tell us about Utah!

Katie: “Utah was an exciting destination for me, as it was a place I’d never been before but had always been drawn to. The landscape is vast and unique. Our Utah’s Mighty Five trip itinerary brings that bigness down to an intimate scale and offers a unique way to explore less-traveled areas!”

The Virgin River, which sculpts the Narrows in Zion NP

Q: Any highlights from your Utah trip?

Katie: “Bryce Canyon was so special, with adorable cabins perched cliffside within the park. Witnessing the magical sunrise and sunset at the canyon’s edge was truly special. The colors on the hoodoos – wow! Another highlight was visiting a slot canyon in Grand Staircase – just our small group, surrounded by towering stone walls with Native American pictographs, and a waterfall waiting at the end. Our guide also led us to what he called a “playground for adults” – massive boulders inviting us to climb and hop around. It brought out the kid in all of us. It’s so important to have experiences as an adult that make us feel like kids again, especially in our fast-paced world – to remember to play!”

Thors Hammer, Bryce Canyon NP.

Katie’s husband and travel companion on the rocks at the Devils Garden

Q: Have you traveled on guided trips before?

Katie: “This was the first time! I’m very independent, typically, and I love doing my own thing. But having a guide was such a great experience. And with everything meticulously planned and organized for us, I got to shift my focus from planning logistics to enjoying the ride! Your guide knows just where to go, and when to go, making the trip both relaxing and adventurous. Every single day, you get to wake up knowing there’s something new and exciting ahead of you. And with a good guide, you might go to the same place as someone else, but you’ll have a completely different experience from them. We learned so much about tribal history, plant life, and unique geology. Everywhere in Utah offers something different, and we got to go so much deeper than surface level!”

Fairyland Trail, Bryce Canyon NP

Q: How does guided exploration differ from solo adventures?

Katie: “I’ve always loved experiencing the natural world. But when you’re by yourself, you might just reach the end of a hike, snap a picture, and head back to the trailhead. With a guide, you don’t just move through the landscape – you engage with it. Pay attention to the details. Get curious. Ask questions. With a deeper understanding comes a deeper appreciation. You really enjoy every second.”

Katie is back in the office and ready to help make your trip the best it can be! Let’s get ready to plan your Desert Southwest Adventure!

About the Author – Lauren Burgess:

Lauren weaves poetry into marketing to help good people and businesses connect with their communities and elevate their impact. From Ecuadorian volcanoes to Alaskan rivers, entrepreneurship to art, she believes in taking the leap, falling in love, and embracing life’s wild, animate magic – an ethos she lives out alongside her partner of 12 years and their adopted barncat.

The post Utah Travel Tales - Journey to the Desert Southwest with Katie Arenas first appeared on Off the Beaten Path.

The post Utah Travel Tales - Journey to the Desert Southwest with Katie Arenas appeared first on Off the Beaten Path.

Ryan Smith is a frequent solo traveler with Off the Beaten Path. He has explored the country with OBP, from the unique deserts of California and Texas, to the coasts of the Pacific Northwest, the staggering, wild landscapes of the Rocky Mountains, and beyond. In this interview, Ryan speaks about his time spent traveling solo with Off the Beaten Path, some advice he has for fellow travelers, and the impact his travels have had on his life.

Q: How did you first discover Off the Beaten Path?

Ryan: “Well, it’s a bit of a funny story. About three years ago, I was at a wedding, enjoying a few drinks and feeling a bit adventurous. OBP had been popping up in my feed for a while. At that point, I was a confident solo traveler and wanted to explore the national parks, but I thought it would be nice to let someone else handle all the logistics for a change. So, with some liquid courage, I signed up for my first OBP trip – a Small Group Adventure to Joshua Tree and Death Valley.”

Ryan Smith hiking the Ubehebe Crater Trail in Death Valley.

Q: Can you share some memorable moments from that first trip?

Ryan: “My first trip with OBP happened just a few months after the initial COVID lockdowns. So for them, we were kind of testing the waters. But for me, it provided a lot of connection and normalcy in the middle of a strange time. I remember flying into Palm Springs, getting there late at night, and heading straight to Joshua Tree. The experience of seeing the Milky Way in Death Valley was mind-blowing. I actually teared up a bit – it was that spectacular.”

Q: You’ve been on a number of OBP trips now. What keeps you coming back?

Ryan: “I travel with OBP three to four times a year. It’s my go-to when I can get time off work, and I always have something to look forward to and daydream about when there’s an OBP trip on my calendar.

OBP got me hooked on the small group travel experience. And I love going as a solo traveler, entering that new little community. The camaraderie with strangers who share the same passion for exploration is half the fun. I love seeing people from different walks of life come together to enjoy the outdoors. Plus, the experts take care of the logistics, so I can just focus on the experience. It makes my adventures worry-free. I’ve visited around 25 national parks, a dozen national monuments, and a couple of national forests and state parks with OBP.”

Q: Do you have any favorite OBP moments or trips?

Ryan: “Oh, there are a few that stand out. One was watching the sunset on the beach in Olympic National Park with Kurt, one of the guides – just a human moment. It was the summer solstice, the longest day of the year. No buildings within 100 miles, so the beach is pristine. We all went to sleep, but I wanted to wake up at 10 pm to watch the sunset. So I went out there by myself. Then Kurt walked up to join me. And we just stood there, watching the sun go down late at night, no need for conversation, just taking it in side by side. It was a really, really good moment.”

Sunset on the coast in Olympic National Park.

“Another great memory was with an OBP guide named Melissa and another traveler named Jan. Melissa offered us two options for hiking – an easy one to a waterfall, or a hard one to a scenic point. And I always do the harder hike when it’s offered. So, we go all the way up to the top. Almost ten miles round trip, lots of climbing, and we finally get up there to this vista. On one side, the Rockies; on the other, the Great Plains. You’re literally where these worlds meet. The storms and thunderheads rolling over the Great Plains, and the wild rugged mountains on the other. The earth, and the sky. And we ate lunch up there, on top of the world. And I just loved it.”

Q: As a seasoned solo traveler, what advice do you have for someone considering joining a group trip?

Ryan: “Just do it. It might seem daunting at first, but it’s one of the best ways to travel. If you’re nervous about traveling solo, this is really a perfect solution. You get to meet amazing people, share incredible experiences, and have everything taken care of for you. It’s like joining a summer camp for adults. And don’t worry if you’re a first-timer; there’s always someone on their first trip, and it’s fun to welcome them into the fold. You don’t have to be Bear Grylls when it comes to confidence. But just remember that we’re not meant to spend our lives in front of a computer screen – we’re meant to get out there with nothing between us and the world. So whether you’re solo or not, experienced or not, don’t let anything stop you.”

Ryan Looking out over a vast expanse in the Rockies.

Q: What does traveling with OBP mean to you on a personal level?

Ryan: “Someone a couple of hundred years ago had the idea of national parks, and it’s become one of the best things about this country. Off the Beaten Path provides a way for people to experience the parks and the wild more fully.

I make it a point when we’re out on a big hike somewhere to find a little area where I can take a moment to myself. I like to be there in silence and imagine myself as someone hundreds or even thousands of years ago who may have sat there enjoying that exact same view, and it means a lot to me. It’s a mental refresh. We can get caught up in the 9 to 5, the news, mental health, all of it; life can grind you down sometimes. But out in nature on an adventure, that stuff fades away. It’s kind of spiritual, really, that feeling of happiness and peace you get in nature. Getting out there – like way out there, no cell signal, the whole off-the-beaten-path thing – in nature a few times a year? It’s my soul food.”

Ryan peering out at Bearhat Mountain and Hidden Lake in Glacier National Park with his mountain goat friend!

These massive swaths of land in pristine condition are set aside for everyone to enjoy. And so getting out there with good people, like-minded people, people that might have been strangers a few days before, but you’re out sharing trail miles and making memories, and you have something wonderful in common – the experience at hand, the present moment, you get to share it together.”

Off the Beaten Path would like to thank Ryan for spending time to share these fantastic stories with us. We look forward to more adventures to come!

About the Author – Lauren Burgess:

Lauren weaves poetry into marketing to help good people and businesses connect with their communities and elevate their impact. From Ecuadorian volcanoes to Alaskan rivers, entrepreneurship to art, she believes in taking the leap, falling in love, and embracing life’s wild, animate magic – an ethos she lives out alongside her partner of 12 years and their adopted barncat.

The post Ryan Smith Travel Tales - Traveling Solo & Sharing Trails first appeared on Off the Beaten Path.

The post Ryan Smith Travel Tales - Traveling Solo & Sharing Trails appeared first on Off the Beaten Path.

As 2024 approaches, we celebrate the remarkable career of longtime Off the Beaten Path guide Kurt Westenbarger. From the rugged Northern Rockies to the mystical Desert Southwest, Kurt has emerged as a traveler’s favorite, bringing to life the landscapes with his in-depth knowledge and captivating narrative style. His journey, beginning in Montana and extending to collaborations with National Geographic and Smithsonian, reflects a life dedicated to changing lives through wonderful encounters with wild places. Renowned for his unique blend of naturalist insights, a trained photographer’s eye, and charismatic charm, Kurt turns every trip into a meaningful, one-of-a-kind experience.

As he prepares for a well-deserved retirement, we’re looking forward to one last year chock-full of unforgettable shared adventures. Our recent conversation with Kurt – full of his genuine passion, wise anecdotes, and engaging stories – is sure to ignite your sense of adventure!

What do you think people love about going on trips with you?

I share a sense of adventure with my clients. If a traveler asks me a question I’m unsure about, my favorite response is, “Let’s see if we can find out.” No matter how much time I spend in a place, there’s always something new to see. The natural world changes dramatically from season to season, let alone year to year. There may be ermine tracks in the snow on Mammoth Hot Springs that we decide to follow. Or we go around a corner on a trail and see something new – a lodgepole pine that’s fallen over, roots up in the air, and we get to explore the intricacies of its root structure, how it takes in nutrients, how it prevents erosion in the watershed. I always keep a sense of wonder about the world, a sense of awe, and my clients pick up on that.

Kurt in Yellowstone National Park

When did you first begin guiding?

I began guiding in my twenties while studying as an older student at Montana State University in Bozeman. I had a work-study job in the Recreation Department, renting out gear to fellow students and occasionally leading them on day trips. The first trip I ever got paid for was whitewater rafting on Yankee Jim Canyon, on the upper Yellowstone River near Gardiner. And get this – it was also my first time in a raft.

It was a scorcher of a day, and we were lugging these heavy rafts and gear down a beast of a hill to the put-in. After we pumped the boats up, it took a good half-hour to get everything and everyone ready – lifejackets on, helmets secured, paddles in hand. When we finally hit the water, the rafts had lost quite a bit of air, and the cold river water decreased the internal pressure even more. There’s whitewater right away on that stretch of river – not ideal for a soft boat. We smacked into a reverse wave, and our raft just folded up like a taco, dumping every one of us out. It was wild and fun, and yeah, I’ve learned a lot since then!

Kurt and his wife Eve

So you got the guiding bug! And where did it take you?

I graduated from school in ’86 with a degree in photography. My wife at the time had gotten a job as a high school math teacher in West Yellowstone, so we moved down there and lived there for 17 years. I really dove into guiding at that point. I was a fly fishing guide and taught Elder Hostels for Western Montana College. I worked for Lone Mountain Ranch as a guide in the summertime, and as a ski instructor in the winter. And then, in 1992, I first began guiding with Off the Beaten Path in Yellowstone Park. It was perfect for honing my skills. I did a lot of step-on guiding, you know, meeting folks in the morning and planning the day’s adventures on the fly. You have to read people fast, figure out what ticks for them to make the day amazing and one-of-a-kind. And Yellowstone is huge – you’ve got endless choices but can’t do it all.

Kurt explores Bryce Canyon National Park

What do you think makes a day trip or weeklong adventure successful?

I’m like a guide-voyeur. I bring people to these places I’ve loved since I was a kid, places I know inside out. And I watch them fall in love, too. The best trips are the ones where my clients take a piece of the park back home in their hearts. It’s deeper than just having a fun time with good snacks and stories. It’s about leaving the park and feeling a bit of a tug, a bit of ‘I don’t want to leave here.’ That’s the perfect trip for me. And people might not expect it from a guy my size – I’m 6’5″ – but I get emotional, seeing my clients fall in love with these places.

What does that mean to you, to see somebody fall in love with a place that you are in love with?

At the age of six, I visited Yellowstone for the first time and decided I wanted to be a national park ranger. But as I got older, the politics turned me off. I went to college thinking I’d join the conservation movement directly, but when I eventually stumbled into guiding through the outdoor recreation department at MSU, it led me to appreciate the impact I could have on individuals directly. My approach shifted to influencing people one-on-one, sharing my passion for conservation and the natural world.

Guiding introduced me to ecotourism – educating people and helping them connect with nature. Ecotourism has somewhat given way to adventure tourism, but I always find ways to incorporate environmental education into my tours. These places matter – and appreciating them on an individual level gives way to larger shifts. So intellectually, I know it’s important. But it’s personal for me, too. Sometimes, it’s their first time really connecting with the natural world, and it can be quite emotional. At the end of a trip, I know I may never see these folks again, but knowing that the experience had an impact on them, that it’s something they’ll carry with them – I mean, I see people tear up at the airport, and let me tell you, it really shows just how deep and powerful these encounters with nature can be.

Let me share a special story. I was guiding an Off the Beaten Path trip in Utah, and we went rafting on the Yampa River with OARS. Four days of whitewater and backcountry camping. About two days in, one evening, I was relaxing in a lounge chair, feet in the water. Suddenly, one of the young OARS raft guides, who was in charge of rowing the gear boat, came over, pulled up a chair next to me, and handed me a beer. He opened one for himself too and said, ‘You probably don’t remember me, but you were my family’s guide in Yellowstone Park when I was a teenager. I was pretty difficult back then, didn’t really want to do anything my parents did. Honestly, I was a bit of an a**hole.”

After a bit of thought, I recalled his family and remembered struggling to engage him in the activities. I told him, “I kept trying to get you interested, but it seemed like I couldn’t reach you.” To which he replied, “Well, you did. It worked. You got through to me, and I’m here now, working as a raft guide on this river, thanks to you.”

Hearing that was incredible. Moments like that are golden – they highlight the impact of guiding. Changing lives, one trip at a time. Now, he’s continuing that legacy in his own way. He gets to carry it forward.

Old Faithful; both the Geyser and the Guide!

It seems like offering someone a different perspective can really change the direction of their life. How we see the world shapes how we navigate through it. You’re opening a new door for them.

Yeah, you know, I’m a believer that our shared interactions leave a mark – whether it’s something about ourselves, the place we’re in, or something else entirely. We’re the sum of our experiences and interactions. So, you’re bound to make an impact on someone, even if they don’t vividly recall you or the exact details of the moment. That’s why I’ve always tried to be the best person and guide I can be, hoping to make a positive change in the world. But being a guide isn’t just about making profound impacts. A big part of it for me is simply finding joy in what I do. It’s mutual, too – sometimes, it’s important for all of us to just let go a little and enjoy the journey.

Kurt smiles his way around Bryce Canyon

Any other fun highlights from your guiding over the years?

Here’s another fun one, a success story that also shows how being adaptable can lead to great experiences. I was guiding a family in Yellowstone – two parents and their teenage kids, a brother and sister. At first, I had a tough time figuring out what they were interested in. We were driving around the park after a picnic lunch, and it felt like the itinerary wasn’t quite connecting with them. Then, we passed a dead elk near the Madison River by the road with a bunch of ravens around it. The teenage girl asked what it was, and her brother wondered what might have been feeding on it besides the ravens. I saw an opportunity and turned the car around. We went back, and I got out my nitrile gloves to examine the elk carcass. Despite the smell, the kids were intrigued. I showed them how to tell which animals had been feeding on it. And then the adults start piping up, “Look at where the rib was broken and then healed.”

Turns out they were orthopedists. The whole family became so excited about this that we ended up touring different animal remains around Yellowstone – I took them to every pile of bones I knew of. We were jokingly calling it the ‘Yellowstone Corpse Tour.’ We looked at bison bones, discussing their dorsal anatomy and how it creates the big hump shape on their spine. Everyone – myself included – was having a great time on this impromptu itinerary, so much so that the family opted to miss their dinner reservation that night. A few days later, I got a call from a colleague asking about this ‘Yellowstone Corpse Tour’ the family had raved about in their feedback to OBP. It was a unique experience and a testament to how tuning into what people find interesting can make for an unforgettable trip.

Kurt and Eve in the Desert Southwest

What are you looking forward to about your final year guiding before retirement?

I’m really excited about reconnecting with past clients. A lot of them have signed up for my final trips, like Exploring Olympic National Park, which is already sold out for my departure. It’s the same with the Big Secret, Big Bend trip – familiar faces coming back for one last adventure with me. It’s going to be a year of goodbyes – I’ve been guiding for forty years – but also a celebration of all the great times we’ve had. Can’t wait to see those folks again and share a few more trails together.

Thank you, Kurt, for your years of service! Best of luck on your many adventures to come!

About the Author: Lauren Burgess

Lauren weaves poetry into marketing to help good people and businesses connect with their communities and elevate their impact. From Ecuadorian volcanoes to Alaskan rivers, entrepreneurship to art, she believes in taking the leap, falling in love, and embracing life’s wild, animate magic – an ethos she lives out alongside her partner of 12 years and their adopted barncat.

The post Kurt Westenbarger: Connecting People and Nature Through Guiding first appeared on Off the Beaten Path.

The post Kurt Westenbarger: Connecting People and Nature Through Guiding appeared first on Off the Beaten Path.

The First of Five – Arches

A smart way to start a Utah adventure is in Moab – the gateway to Arches and Canyonlands National Parks. Located near the far eastern side of the state, Arches National Park is a 73,234-acre red-rock wonderland. This 300-million-year-old sandstone has more than 2,000 arches ranging in a gradient of colors; reds, oranges, browns, and even purples. One particular arch is so iconic, it made its way onto the Utah license plate.

Delicate Arch is a 52-foot free-standing natural arch that was gradually worn away from weather and erosion. The trail to see this natural icon requires a 3-mile round-trip hike meandering up through beautiful sandstone and slickrock geologic features. If you’re up for an early morning, traveling with OBP is the way to go! Getting to this special geographic landmark before sunrise helps you beat the crowds, and witness the morning hues of this outstanding landscape. During the day, you can adventure around the other spectacular anomalies such as Balanced Rock, and Windows arch to add to your visual collection.  You may be looking forward to winding down with some stargazing after the sun sets. In 2019, Arches National Park became certified as an official International Dark Sky Park! On a moonless night, it’s estimated that you can see 2,500 stars and in the right conditions, you can even see the rings of Saturn. This national park is truly special, day or night.

Next up – Canyonlands

A short distance down the Colorado river brings you to Canyonlands National Park. With so much to see and do here, making decisions is as tough as being a kid in a candy shop.  There are moderate hikes like Upheaval Dome Overlook that will take you to one of the most fascinating geological structures in the U.S. This hike brings you to a mysterious crater that geologists call “the most peculiar structural feature in southeastern Utah.” This interesting geological anomaly holds many surprises that shock visitors of the park. For instance, there are rocks that were once buried a mile underground now surfacing in the crater. A naturalist guide can help you uncover the mystique of this spectacular geological marvel. Get ready to learn a thing or two about the theories of how this mesmerizing landmark came to be.

Even if geology isn’t your main interest, there’s plenty more to see atop a massive 1,500-foot mesa known as the Island in the Sky. Here, you can find trails like Aztec Butte, or Mesa Arch which traverse the mesa, offering up stellar views and interesting rock formations. You can also take a hike along the Murphy Loop trail, which is a longer, but excellent trek to a panoramic paradise.

Island in the Sky is a unique flattop in Canyonlands that allows you to see many miles in any direction on a clear day, which most of them are. Here, you can enjoy a nice lunch, soak up some sun, and relax like a red-rock royal. Before you head back to your lodge, catch golden hour at The Needles. These colorful spires of Cedar Mesa Sandstone dominate the southeast corner of Canyonlands. As the ocean that once covered this area dried up, salt began to seep into the cracks of the rocks allowing them to form a grid. As the land slowly eroded thanks to rain, wind, and ice, the zebra-striped spires formed into what we see today. Finally, before you leave the park and head to Capitol Reef, pay a visit to The Maze! It’s big, wild, and one of the least accessible districts of Canyonlands. Despite the remoteness, you can do a lot of adventuring here. Saddle up and ride through trails on horseback, tackle terrain mountain biking, or break out the binoculars and watch turkey vultures soar overhead, all in the adventurous Canyonlands National Park. 

Travel on to Capitol Reef

Referred to by early inhabitants as the “land of the sleeping rainbow” because of its multicolored sandstone, Capitol Reef is the next national park in Utah’s Mighty Five. An absolute must-see in this park is a massive geologic feature known as the Waterpocket Fold, which is a 100-mile-long wrinkle in the Earth’s crust. Capitol Reef is a unique park because of this monocline, as there is a 7,000 vertical foot difference, and is only 6 miles wide from east to west.

It’s most common to drive through the main road on Highway 24 but to get to the more remote sections you can drive a 4WD vehicle on gravel roads, as long as you are outside of the actual national park boundary (ATV/UTV’s are prohibited in the national park.). It’s worth it to stretch your legs and explore this land by foot, as you’ll get close to the rock walls where you’ll see petroglyphs carved by the ancient Fremont Culture. An ideal spot to see these sights are between Hickman Bridge trailhead and Fruita, which are located in the heart of the park near the visitor center.

While you’re visiting this southern section, and before you call it a night, be sure to stop by The Gifford Homestead. This home was built by the first settlers in 1906 and is one of the last remaining buildings in the park. Make a pit stop here to explore the southern end of the park and get a good feel for how these families lived among the mountains. Before you leave the homestead, be sure to try a big slice of their famous fruit pie topped with homemade ice cream! 

Venture into Bryce Canyon

Your Utah adventures aren’t over yet! Bryce Canyon National Park still has so much magic to discover. This land is home to the greatest number of hoodoos on Earth. A hoodoo is a tall, thin spire of rock carefully sculpted by the elements which makes them quite unique to this land. The deposition of rocks, the uplift of the earth, and the weathering and erosion that occurs in this section of Utah are what make these colorful rocks an awe-inspiring sight to see. Upon seeing the large amphitheater of Hoodoos for the first time, visitors are struck with an overwhelming sense of amazement, which is why park rangers call this reaction “The Bryce Moment.” Some have even said it’s “better than the Grand Canyon.” While you can drive or ride on horseback throughout this park, it’s special to see it on foot. The Queens Garden Trail is very popular because it takes you from a panoramic view down into the details of the hoodoos. It’s very common to combine this trail with the Navajo Loop, which becomes a 3-mile round-trip hike that brings you through switchbacks between narrow walls of colorful limestone. Once you’ve made it back to the top of Sunset Point, you will have walked part of the Grand Staircase-Escalate National Monument. This Delaware-sized expanse of desert terrain is a series of rock plateaus beginning around the Grand Canyon and ascends in height as you travel North toward Bryce Canyon as a vast geologic crescendo. It’s a relatively new monument – established by President Bill Clinton in 1996 – and reveals 200 million years of sedimentary erosion. These remarkable steps are surely what makes the desert southwest mighty and magical all at once. 

The Finale of Utah’s Mighty Five – Zion

It might be the last on this list, but did you know that Zion is Utah’s first national park? The massive sandstone cliffs and deep narrow canyons that make up this desert southwest sanctuary were carved by the Virgin River, making it the ultimate adult playground. You can backpack through the tranquil backcountry and stargaze at camp as high as 8,000 feet in elevation or descend into the red rocks for some canyoneering thrill. Zion has become one of the most sought-after destinations for canyoners because of the intricate canyon systems, but if that’s not the thrill you seek, you can still meander and explore other wonders by foot. One of the many gorgeous hikes in the area is the Emerald Pools Trail, which takes you to three peaceful water pockets covered by maple trees and surrounded by lush deciduous forests. It’s a striking oasis you should surely see, accompanied by striking waterfalls that cascade down colored cliffs. The most popular trail in Zion, which some even say is one of the most spectacular day hikes in the world, is Angels Landing. This trail concludes at an airy summit after nearly a 1,500 vertical foot gain along a narrow fin of stone with a top elevation of 5,790 feet. It’s certainly for the bold hikers because, despite the height, the only element of safety is a chain railing. If your super-human nerves get you to the top of Angels Landing, you’re rewarded with a vast vista of Zion Canyon. Whether you made it to the top or prefer to stay down below, Zion is home to more than 200 species of birds making it a true paradise for birdwatchers. The Peregrine falcon, the bald eagle, and the California condor are some of the species that soar around these canyons. If you’re lucky, you may even spot the rare Mexican spotted owl. There are endless adventures in the canyons of Zion and OBP expert guides are geared up to take you through this mighty wonder of the world. 

Feeling ready to tackle Utah’s Might Five? It might sound like a beast but when you book with Off the Beaten Path, you’ll be geared up and ready to go explore this intricate terrain in a safe, explorative, and fun way. You can check five national parks off your list, enjoy delicious and warm meals in a lodge, and get a glimpse of the Mars-like environment without ever leaving the state of Utah. Leave the heavy lifting to us and start planning your desert southwest adventures today.

The post Hiking Utah - Exploring Utah's National Parks first appeared on Off the Beaten Path.

The post Hiking Utah - Exploring Utah's National Parks appeared first on Off the Beaten Path.

There are work demands, errands, and duties, leaving little time to appreciate each other. 

That’s where an adventure saves the day. 

As a company that was founded, and is now run by a couple, Off the Beaten Path knows where to go when it comes to active, outdoor trips for couples. 

Whether you want to celebrate life’s milestones, escape from the grind, or just find adventure, these six destinations offer a myriad of chances to spend meaningful time together. 

Read on to find out where and how to channel the romance and fall in love all over again with the help of an adventurous getaway.

The Dolomites: Dramatic Mountains and Alpine Life 

A couple’s trip to the Dolomites of Italy offers a chance to connect over awe-inspiring landscapes and deep-rooted cultural traditions. 

The views of these mountains will have you saying, “are you kidding me?” to your partner in disbelief around every corner. 

Technically part of the Italian Alps, the Dolomite mountain range is made up of sheer cliffs, pinnacles, and towers that boast some of the highest limestone walls in the world. It’s a landscape of extremes that make rifugios, or high mountain huts, seem cozier and more immsersive.

There’s nothing better than trekking through gorgeous Alpine scenery and then finishing the day with a glass of wine in hand, watching the alpenglow light up the horizon. 

Ladin Culture 

There’s nothing like a dip into a centuries-old culture to spark some some intrigue. 

Villages in the Dolomites hang in high valleys and give ample opportunity to slow down and experience idyllic Alpine life.

In the Italian Friuli region, people once shared a language with the communities in the high Alps of present-day Switzerland, the theory goes. When invaders from the north brought Germanic influences, the Ladin people retreated or stayed in the highest, more inaccessible areas, thereby retaining their language. 

In the heart of the Dolomites, 30,000 people continue to speak Ladin. The culture remains rooted in Alpine life. Visitors often comment on how their daily routines feel removed from technology and closer to nature. 

This can only add to the magic of the mountain scenery. 

Highlights of the Dolomites:

• Breathtaking hikes and heights abound in Puez-Odle Nature Park. Keep a lookout for eagles, chamois and marmots while you keep reminding yourself to pick your jaw up from the floor. 
• Savor incredible food and wine of the Trentino- Alto Adige region. White grapes are harvested for the most part, which make Pinot grigio, Riesling, and Sylvaner. Only 15% of the land there can be cultivated, making every bottle special. 
• Cozy accommodations like rifugios mean you get to sleep soundly after a day of trekking. 

In a place where 18 of the peaks surpass 10,000 feet and can be found on the list of UNESCO’s world heritage sites, it’s hard not to get lost in the moment.  

If you love being among rugged scenery and experiencing it first hand, but never straying far from creature comforts, then our Dolomite’s Delight Small Group Adventure might hit the spot as an active, outdoor adventure for couples. 

Plus, you stay at family-owned lodges and get insight into the Ladin culture from an expert guide. This allows you and your spouse or significant other to appreciate the region and its culture in a more intimate way.

Hawaii: Classic for a Reason 

This one won’t surprise you. 

Hawaii ranks on many lists for romantic getaways, including the ever-popular honeymoon vacation to Hawaii. 

There’s a reason vanilla ice cream remains a classic, and the same goes for this island chain. 

Fresh Air and Island Time 

Breathe in the fresh ocean air and exhale away your worries. Any Hawaiian island you choose will serve as a break from the daily hustle, and gives you ample opportunity to disconnect, and reconnect.

Here, we focus on the Big Island and Maui, since both islands offer adventure and the time and space to lay out in the sun and appreciate Hawaiian culture. 

It may be exactly what a busy and stressed-out couple needs. 

If you want to escape, you can do it intentionally with Off the Beaten Path. You tell us what your interests, and desired activity level is, we’ll handle the planning before the trip, and we’ll keep you away from the overcrowded experiences once you get there. 

Highlights of Hawaii: 

• Experience aloha aina, or the love of the land. and soak in Hawaiian culture, whether that’s trying to pronounce the name of the state fish (humuhumunukunukuapuaʻa) or learning about the islands’ Polynesian influence.
• Snorkel in Kealakekua Bay Historical Park on the Big Island. You might see some spinner dolphins, trumpet fish, yellow tangs, and bright parrotfish. 
• Bike down the Haleakala Volcano on Maui, a 25-mile route through ranch land and rolling mountains, green pastures, and views of the surrounding islands. 

Whether it’s an anniversary trip to Hawaii or just a way to nap on the beach for multiple days in a row, it’s hard to go wrong with a trip for two here. 

Kelly Palmer and her husband ride camels through the desert of Morocco

Magical Morocco: A Destination for the Senses   

As far as a trip for active couples goes, Morocco might not be top of mind. 

There are classic places like Hawaii or the Napa wine region. But if you’re an adventurous traveler, then Morocco could be the perfect place for you.

Toss out your preconceived notions because real Morocco can only be experienced by breathing in the smell of the spices, feeling a camel’s back while looking across a desert, or tasting exquisite, traditional cuisine. 

Old World Charms of Morocco 

Even though you can hop on a ferry and land in Spain in an hour, Morocco can feel worlds away from Western Europe and the rest of the world. 

With complex human history and Arabian, Spanish and French influences, Morocco sets a tone of exotic romance. 

Ancient traditions such as those found in the leather tanneries of Fes still make up the routines of Moroccan’s daily lives. 

Open air markets called “Souks” give you a full sensory experience and often include stalls with everything from herbs and spices to rugs and lanterns. 

The more you can tune into your senses, the more of an adventure you’ll have. 

Sometimes these adventures may involve less pleasant smells, like those of tanneries. The ancient tradition of dying leather with cow urine and pigeon poo lives on, and you’ll probably smell it before you see it.  

If you find yourself in Fes, shopkeepers will likely offer you tours of the tanneries, usually located on rooftops. There you can witness the process of turning animal hides into the buttery, leather goods you’ll see sold all over the markets. 

Highlights of Morocco: 

• Partake in some mint tea with locals. It’s consumed at all hours of the day and a symbol of friendship and hospitality. The ritual makes up the social fabric of daily life, so drink it in a medina square and take in the culture. 
• Trek into the Atlas Mountains with a guide and visit Berber villages, usually perched high in the mountains, their high walls fortified long ago from invaders. Families live in their own units with shared communal rooms including a mosque and a place for community elders to gather. 
• Get lost in a medina together. The bustling city centers include countless vendors selling souvenirs you won’t find anywhere else. Whether or not you’re joined-at-the-hip explorers, try not to lose each other in the maze of the market. 

Off the Beaten Path offers two amazing experiences in Morocco which will certainly delight your senses. 

The Magic of Morocco involves a stay at a luxurious lodge at the base of the mountains, time spent in the ancient city of Fes and a stay in Kasbahs and Berber camps. Plus, you’ll get to experience this magical place alongside our delightful local guide and like-minded travelers!

With our Inspired Morocco Private Custom Journey, you can tell friends and family you rode a camel in the Sahara Desert and toured the souks of Marrakech. You’ll also get perspective from local guides that no guidebook (aside from ours) or internet research can beat. 

By embarking on an adventure to Morocco, you’ll come away with an understanding of the country you can only get from immersive travel experiences. 

Olympic National Park: A Chance to Unplug and Reconnect 

A couple’s trip to Olympic National Park might not immediately come to mind when you think of when dreaming about your next adventure.

But once you’re there, you’ll realize this special place offers you the opportunity to disconnect and be present like few other places do. 

Love Birds and Landscapes of Olympic National Park 

If you’re traveling to the Olympic Peninsula between November and April, you might spot flocks of Trumpeter swans. We love these birds because they represent movement, travel, and migration, and it’s why we chose them as part of our logo. They also mate for life, so keep your eyes peeled for these love birds on your way to the stunning wilderness of Olympic National Park. 

Once you arrive, forests full of drooping moss soak up noise, giving you time for quiet reflection, and the dramatic torment of the Pacific Ocean makes for a much better show than what you might find on TV. 

Highlights of Olympic National Park:

• Stay at the remote Kalaloch Lodge on the edge of the Pacific and watch as the sun sets from a comfortable spot on the deck. 
• Walk through the Hall of Mosses in the Hoh Rainforest while you appreciate one of the few remaining temperate rainforests in the world.
• Venture up to Hurricane Ridge and appreciate the sweeping views of Mount Olympus together. Wonder at the bounty of wildflowers and the incredible range of ecosystems at this park that you can’t find anywhere else. 

If you’re nature lovers, there’s no place like this part of the Pacific Northwest to appreciate all the elements, animals, and geology that make it a verdant paradise. If you want to see it in a way that gives you off the beaten path opportunities, check out our Exploring Olympic National Park Small Group Adventure. 

Croatia: The New Romance Capital of Europe    

There’s always Paris, as the saying goes. 

But how about Croatia? 

Not too far from the world capital of love you’ll find cobblestone streets, crystal clear water and an unbelievable number of world heritage sites. 

Meaning? A trip to Croatia can inspire appreciation and mystique in a place that’s a lot more adventurous. (Though we love Paris just as much as anyone!)

Cultural Sites and National Parks Abound 

It’s no surprise that Croatia keeps showing up in the spotlight as an appealing international destination. Likely, it’s because of the rugged yet inviting Adriatic coast and the country’s incredible combination of natural wonders and cultural offerings. 

When your mind needs a break from all the subdued buzz of historic towns like Rovinj and Split, venture into one of eight national parks. 

If you want to earn bragging rights for visiting some of the most pristine Mediterranean scenery, then Paklenica National Park hits the mark. There are meandering trails through beech and black pine forests, through giant canyons and under limestone peaks. 

Nearby, the small town of Trogir beckons those charmed by rich cultural heritage. It doesn’t take long to walk from one end of the town to the other as you pass by courtyards and squares. 

Marvel at the many buildings that were built in the 13th and the 15th centuries, displaying Renaissance architecture. 

Highlights of Croatia:

• Wander around Diocletian’s Palace. Like any self-interested emperor, Diocletian built his palace to make sure he had a nice place to retire. Located in Split, it’s a place where people live within its walls. Stroll side by side as you marvel at the white stone palace, which included 12 sphinxes from Egypt, though only one remains today. 
• Lay on the beach in Vis. Vis stands out with history as the most isolated island in Croatia as it served as a military base for Yugoslavia around WWII. Appreciate its history that dates to Neolithic times, its orange roofs, and the incredibly clear water. 
• Take a pit stop in Hum. This tiny town with medieval history sits in central Istria (a peninsula in Croatia and part of Slovenia, and apparently ranks as the smallest town in the world.

Just because Croatia keeps climbing on traveler’s lists as the place to be doesn’t mean you have to fall into the tourist traps. 

OBP’s Captivating Croatia Small Group Adventure explores the historic, culinary, and natural highlights of the country. Hunt for truffles, learn about Renaissance architecture, and explore the iconic Plitvice Lakes National Park with us. 

Costa Rica: La Pura Vida in the Tropics 

A land of monkeys, active volcanoes, and lush forests naturally set an adventurous tone.  

The tropics in general can make you feel sensual and alive. 

But a trip to Costa Rica will help you feel healthy and revitalized and just happy to be spending time with your travel companion. 

With an un-fussy culture and a focus on la pura vida, the country will also inspire you by its beauty and commitment to a healthy environment. 

Biodiversity and Nature-based Activities 

With 25% of the country’s nature protected, it’s no surprise that it ranks as one of the most biodiverse places on the planet and has a population of some of the world’s healthiest people. 

A honeymoon trip to Costa Rica or just a getaway for two allows you to appreciate its natural beauty in a relaxed Tico way. 

The other great thing about Costa Rica is all the activities available to experience together or on your own. Yoga, surfing, paddle boarding, zip lining and even river rafting sit on the menu of options. 

When you’ve had enough activity, you can retreat to any number of our favorite, vetted accommodations together. You’ll still feel a part of the jungle or the ocean, with sounds of howler monkeys punctuating the night and all types of native birds serving as your wakeup call. 

Highlights of Costa Rica:

• If what you’re searching for is luxury with a side of adventure, Casa Corcovado Jungle Lodge checks both of those boxes. Stay in a private bungalow surrounded by rainforest and just steps from the beautiful beachfront. 
• Enjoy access to an on-site massage therapist and feel like you’re really part of the jungle at Rafiki Safari Lodge. You’ll feel isolated in a comfortable way.  
• Stay among a tropical forest with views of the South Pacific at Cuna del Angel and relish the combination of colonial and Costa Rican architecture. 

If you want a custom travel experience tailored to your inclinations, Off the Beaten Path offers three different ways to see Costa Rica, with options to stay in all of the above accommodations. 

Not to get too mushy here, but Off the Beaten Path likes to think of our logo as one swan representing our company and the other representing our clients. We’ll always be around to plan a trip for two, and to keep you adventuring far and wide. And when its time to bring along friends or family, we’ll be ready to get you all out into the world together!

The post 6 Destinations for Couples Who Travel first appeared on Off the Beaten Path.

The post 6 Destinations for Couples Who Travel appeared first on Off the Beaten Path.

The History of Yosemite

Yosemite National Park is located in the Sierra Nevada mountains of California. It was first home to the Ahwahneechee people for thousands of years before settlers arrived in the 1800s. During the zeal of the 1851 California Gold Rush, the valley was cleared by the United States Army, initiating tribal conflicts and the subsequent Mariposa War. Despite their fight, the Native American tribe was relocated to a reservation. “Yosemite” was the result of the mispronunciation of “Ahwahnee” by the reigning settlers. Fast forward through the years, the land was visited by photographers, artists, and writers detailing its grandeur. The abundant rock formations, vast canyons, primeval lakes, and breathtaking waterfalls were (and still are) immaculate sights for adventurers and researchers alike. One traveler in particular, John Muir, spent years studying the valley and began campaigning to preserve Yosemite as a National Park. To further preserve the beauty of the national park, John Muir initiated the Yosemite Act of 1890. After a camping trip with Theodore Roosevelt in 1903, Muir convinced the nature-loving president to pass the bill that made all of Yosemite protected and preserved by the U.S. government.

Yosemite is the third oldest National Park in the United States after Yellowstone and Sequoia. It is arguably one of the best places to explore with over 750 trails and 800 miles of river valleys. On an OBP trip to Yosemite, you and your pals will pass through ancient sequoia trees as your guide teaches you all about the ecology of these giants. Your whimsical walk through the forest will open up to vast valleys and towering rock faces formed from lava flows. When you spot the unique curve and delicate peak of Half Dome or stand beneath the 3,000-foot height of El Capitan, it is without a doubt that your first reaction is a simple, dumbfounded “wow.” The waterfalls will leave you in wonder as they flow off cliffs into the fresh spring air. Cook’s Meadow and Mirror Lake will silence your thoughts and dazzle your gaze, taking you right back to how the early settlers first saw this land and continue to this day, with nothing but appreciation for all its natural beauty.

The History of Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon, which is the biggest canyon in the world, is located in northern Arizona. The mile-deep gorge is estimated to have formed 5 to 6 million years ago by the Colorado River. It reveals the deep and colorful sediment deposits of the Earth’s crust dating back to nearly 2 billion years ago. The first humans to inhabit this land were the Ancestral Pueblo people – followed by Paiute, Navajo, Zuni, and Hopi tribes. The Havasupai tribe has lived in the canyon for more than 800 years. Because the tribe still lived below the canyon rim, in 1893 President Benjamin Harrison first granted federal protection as a forest reserve which protected their homes and the land. Then, in 1903, Teddy Roosevelt declared portions of the Grand Canyon a federal game reserve. It was in 1919 when Woodrow Wilson helped the Grand Canyon officially achieve status as a national park. 

Down below the rim of the canyon are where the fascinating mysteries thrive. Of the estimated 1,000 caves tucked within the Grand Canyon only 335 have been recorded. Hundreds of split-twig figurines line the walls of these caves with deer and bighorn sheep sketches. Anthropologists believe prehistoric hunters left these drawings as a ritualistic saga of a successful hunt. Traveling with OBP gets you close to the canyon walls where you can see all those years of magma-built evolution. Walk through the canyon and learn about the geology of the area, take in the mesmerizing landscapes, or visit the Cave of Domes, the only cave within the park accessible to the public.  You can also visit the famous Cameron Trading Post gallery in Page. Here, you’ll see some of the fine works of the Southwestern Native American tribes. A trip to the Grand Canyon wouldn’t be complete without swinging by the picturesque Horseshoe Bend. This natural formation draws in thousands of visitors every year, and it might be time for you to add this superb view to your photo album too.

The History of Olympic National Park

Imagine sailing in from the ocean after weeks of intense thrashing from whitecaps and storms only to reach land and discover endless miles of sandy coastline with cliffs of luscious forests filled with western red cedar, Sitka spruce, Douglas fir, bigleaf maple, and western hemlock trees. It’d be quite a treat to see such a sight, wouldn’t you agree? Surely the first Spanish settlers sounded cheers upon their arrival to Washington’s Olympic Peninsula in 1850. Despite their later disappointment with California gold, this land was an abundant refuge to the growing tribes. As years passed the tribes that settled the region were the Makah, Quileute, Hoh, Quinault, Skokomish, Port Gamble S’Klallam, Jamestown S’Klallam, and Lower Elwha Klallam people. By 1890, John Muir, out and about again, discovered this Olympic Peninsula and proposed the creation of a national park to preserve it. By 1937, presidents Teddy Roosevelt and Franklin Roosevelt both secured protection and added support to establish the nearly one million acres of vast wilderness as a national park.  

From glacier-capped mountains to temperate rain forests and the jaw-dropping 70 miles of beautiful seacoast, Olympic National Park allows for never-ending exploration. Begin your day watching whales on the horizon of Rialto Beach, then discover hidden waterfalls as you venture through the Hoh Rain Forest (one of the last remaining rainforests in the US) by lunchtime. End your day with a hike to the top of the snow-covered mountain peaks of Hurricane Ridge in time for a true golden coast sunset. And with Off the Beaten Path (OBP), you’ll make it back to your honorable lodge just in time for a warm meal and cozy night’s rest. Olympic National Park is home to all kinds of wildlife which have been protected since 1897 when President Grover Cleveland responded to concerns about the dying region. He designated the area as a reserve even before it became a national park. Though the first settlers didn’t find gold, Olympic national park is still a treasured find.

The History of Big Bend

Picture drylands and tumbleweeds in an old western cowboy film and you get a quick snapshot of Big Bend National Park. And just like a John Wayne movie, there were certainly a few showdowns. The first known settlers were the Chisos Spaniards in the early 1800s. Shortly after, in 1854 when Fort Davis was established, the U.S. Army sought ownership of this land, resulting in the battle known as The Battle of Big Bend. Despite the Mexican “vaqueros” (Spanish for cowboys) fight, the U.S. won, making the Rio Grande River the border between Mexico and the U.S. But it would be another 100 years before Big Bend became a national park. Americans couldn’t imagine why anyone would live, let alone visit, such a rugged wilderness. Even the Spaniards dubbed this area “el despoblado,” the uninhabited land. However, these foreboding names and desperate conditions certainly didn‘t stop the bold from trying to settle down there. Ranchers rolled in around the 1920s, noticing the promise this land had for farming and grazing cattle, sheep, and goats. Soon after, Texan officials aimed to protect and preserve the land, so supporters had to come up with the money to purchase it. In 1942, $1.5 million was allocated by the state of Texas to purchase the 600,000 acres. The deed was established on June 12th, 1944, and Big Bend National Park was officially established. 

Venturing into the desert shouldn’t be a solo journey, even the cowboys had their horses. Saddle up with OBP as your trusty stallion. We’ll take you deep into the river canyons where you can see the huge cottonwood trees that line the river corridor. You’ll get high into the Chisos Mountains and land at the prime lookout point to watch for mountain lions and bobcats. Wait ‘til nightfall and you can see more stars in the sky than you ever have before, while howling coyotes call in the distance. With us, you’ll see why Big Bend becoming a national park was a true “Texas Gift to the Nation.”

The History of Everglades National Park

At the very tip of the Florida, peninsula is 1.5 million acres of subtropical treasure. Everglades National Park is a vast seabed of freshwater marshes, tropical hardwood hammock habitats, pine rocklands, and mangrove forests. This wilderness was an abundant resource for its early explorers, but unfortunately, they weren’t interested in preserving its natural beauty. With the demise of South Florida’s first settlers- the Calusa Indians- in the 1800s, colonial settlers drained the swampy farmland and communities. It didn’t take long for them to cause severe damage to the ecosystems and the species that lived within them. Little by little, canals, roads, and buildings began to replace native habitats. By the end of the 1920s, the region became more accessible to tourists, leading to the construction of towns known today as Fort Lauderdale, Miami, and Fort Myers. One local land developer named Ernest F. Coe came to town with a heart for these wetlands. He pitched the idea to preserve and protect the Everglades. Thankfully, Congress accepted and declared it federal land in 1934. However, it would take another 13 years before enough land was secured and preserved after all those years of dredging. The national park was officially established in 1947.

The Everglades is the third largest national park in the Lower 48. It’s teeming with species like manatees, crocodiles, the elusive Florida panther, and over 360 species of birds. Thanks to land lovers like Coe, and ladies like the Florida Federation of Women’s Clubs, the once-decimated native wildlife populations have been restored. Florida is more than a good place to get a great tan. This park is booming with activities and adventure. With an OBP trip to Wild Florida, you can trade spots with the sea turtles nesting on the beaches and snorkel through coral reefs and seagrass beds. Or paddleboard through the creeks of brackish water and explore the forest of mangrove trees….(need to conclude)

The definition of peace is freedom from disturbance, and that is exactly what makes a national park possible. From artists to presidents, national parks are a treasure trove to us all. When you get the chance to visit one of these 5 can’t-miss National Parks, be sure to connect with OBP to start planning your trip. 

The post 5 Can't-Miss National Parks and Their Fascinating History first appeared on Off the Beaten Path.

The post 5 Can't-Miss National Parks and Their Fascinating History appeared first on Off the Beaten Path.

When considering what destinations to visit in the fall, there’s much to consider besides the kaleidoscope of colors. It involves what you don’t have to deal with in the height of summer, some of which include heavy crowds, mosquitos, and peak season pricing on lodging.

So, while the days are still long and warm, consider these destinations when planning for your fall adventures. 

1. Fall in the Dolomites: Wine and Autumnal Hues 

Home to the Ladin people, high mountain huts, and fairy tale landscapes, the Dolomites never fail to impress even the most well-traveled adventurers. 

If you’re wondering when to visit the Dolomites, fall can be a wonderful time to explore the high alpine trails during the day and embrace the coziness of indoor luxury by night. 

Quieter trails, less traffic on the roads and more availability for room bookings means a truly relaxing time away from home. 

Because of infrastructure dedicated to getting people up into the mountains, it’s easy to take a cable car or chairlift to a trailhead, bringing you straight to the high alpine. You’ll get up close to the golden hues of the valleys as you hike beneath sheer mountain cliffs. 

The Best Thing About Fall in the Dolomites

What makes the Dolomites so special in the fall is not only the spectacular setting for changing colors but also the chance to experience Italy’s deep roots in winemaking. 

• Drinking a glass of Pinot Bianco and eating a filling lunch of potato dumplings mid-hike at a rifugio, the high mountain huts known throughout the region.
• Visiting a local winery in the Alto Adige region and seeing if you can catch the harvest in time to crush grapes with your feet. 
• Visiting the Cinque Torre, or the five towers with views of the largest remaining glacier in the Dolomites.
• Staying in lodges with old-warm charm, such as Villa Abbazia in the town of Follina. 
• Hiking in the perfect temperatures of an Italian fall. You won’t get too hot to hike!

Looking for some more guidance while you traipse across this mountain wonderland? Off the Beaten Path offers one fall departure trip for Dolomites Delight as a Small Group Tour. You can make it private and visit whatever time of the season that suits you best. 

2. Fall in Yosemite: A Serene Landscape and a Slower Pace

California might not come to first to mind when considering where to travel in the fall season. 

But if you want to avoid peak season and still visit one of the most beautiful, but busiest parks in the U.S., then there’s no better time to visit Yosemite than the fall 

While waterfalls like Yosemite Falls slow to a gentle flow by that time, the giant sequoia trees remain just as awe-inspiring. And you can enjoy their majesty that comes with 3,000 years of existence in peace.

Yosemite isn’t known for its fall colors since most of the trees are evergreen. But you can still enjoy the colors of the many deciduous trees native to the area, such as big-leaf maples, Pacific dogwoods, and black oaks. 

All areas of the park remain open until the end of October most years. 

The best things about fall in Yosemite: 

• Nearby hikes are void of crowds, such as Tenaya Lake or Dog Lake. 
• Watching climbers scale El Capitan from one of the many gorgeous meadows in the park, which transform into carpets of burnt orange and golden brown. 
• Hiking to high-elevation lakes such as Cathedral Lakes or McCabe Lakes, which thin out with people the further you get from the trailheads. 
• Enjoying emptier lodges such as the Yosemite Valley Lodge and Wawona Hotel, which are both considered highlights of Yosemite’s history. 

If you’re looking for a guided tour to inspire even more appreciation for the area, Off the Beaten Path offers a couple of fall-time departures to dive into the history and natural wonders of this beautiful place. 

3. Fall in Yellowstone: Watch Nature’s Drama Unfold 

It’s hard to know when to visit Yellowstone, when really any season has something special to offer.  

If you consider yourself a wildlife enthusiast, fall in Yellowstone delivers in the ability to see the fauna of the area do their thing front and center. This includes watching the breeding season for elk play out. 

Called the rut, it’s a time when males try to attract attention from females by bugling. It’s a beautiful and sometimes eerie sound that alternates between high-pitched and deep squealing tones. 

Yellowstone’s largest herd of elk hang out in the Lamar Valley in the fall after they’ve migrated from higher elevation grasslands. It’s not unusual to see them spar with their antlers, steam rising from their nostrils in dramatic clouds.

It’s also common to see bears out and about as hyperphagia unfolds, a period of time when they stuff themselves silly with nuts, berries, seeds, and sometimes ungulate carcasses in preparation for the long winter hibernation ahead.

The Best Things About Fall in Yellowstone:

• Soaking in Yellowstone Hot Springs on the banks of the Yellowstone River. It’s easy to make a stop after a day of hiking or wildlife watching, as it’s located just 10 minutes north of the park at the south end of Paradise Valley. 
• Embracing the unpredictability of weather: one day you’ll be soaking in the sun, the next you could be bundled up, witnessing the first flakes of the season. 
• Learning about the natural history of the area, such as the reintroduction of Yellowstone’s wolves and the interplay between wildlife and farming. 
• Capturing dramatic moments with your camera so you can show friends and family images of bighorn sheep sparring or a mamma bear ushering her cubs across the road.

Experience all of the above with an experienced guide on our offered specifically in the spring and fall to get a front-row seat to nature’s happenings. 

4. Fall in Alaska: Active Wildlife and Epic Landscapes  

Most visitors to the frontier state show arrive between June and August, many of them on cruise ships. 

That means come September, you’ll get more space to enjoy the expansiveness of the landscape and witness the state’s biggest predators fatten up for hibernation. 

You’ll also find an unbelievable palette of colors, from the burnt orange of meadows to the golden yellow of aspen leaves, added with a pop of primary color from the blue mountains dusted with snow. 

Our Small Group Adventures to the Great Land depart mid-summer, but you can make the trip private and all yours by visiting in the fall. 

The best things about fall in Alaska:

• A chance to catch the northern lights: by late August there’s enough darkness to potentially see this phenomenon.
• Early season fall delights: because it’s so far north, colors start to change in late August into early September and usually stick around for a month or so.
• Taking a boat tour through Kenai Fjords and looking out for wildlife such as humpback whales, harbor seals and orca whales. 
• Observing bears digging for clams, wading in the water, and playing at Lake Clark National Park. 

There’s no place like Alaska to be wowed by wildlife and colors come fall. 

5. Fall in the Desert Southwest: A Land of Contrasting Colors  

Fall in the desert southwest means a crazy contrast of red rock with yellow cottonwoods and oak trees. Set to a backdrop of clear blue skies, it’s a delight for any nature-loving visitor. 

From easy interpretive hikes to full days of rafting on the river, it’s easy to pick an activity that puts you in the middle of this dreamy landscape. 

So leave behind the intense temperatures and crowds of the summertime, and dive into a red rock wonderland full of human and natural history.

The best things about fall in the desert southwest: 

• Biking Zion Canyon Road- Follow the Virgin River for 8 miles on a flat, paved path from the visitor center to the Temple of Sinawava, a nature amphitheater shaped by the river. 
• Attend the Chaco Night Sky Program at Casa Rinconada, a Chacoan ceremonial site. See how the kiva aligns with the equinox sunrise with interpretation from a knowledgeable ranger. 
• Focus on seeing national treasures up close while taking a hike along the Grand Canyon’s rim or rafting the Colorado River’s more mellow sections.

When to visit the desert depends on your availability of course, but a great time could be during one of our fall tours of the area. Learn about the importance of the Colorado River while exploring the Southwest. 

All of these destinations to visit in the fall offer something special. Let us help you decide which one suits you best by chatting with one of our Travel Advisors.

The post 5 Destinations to Visit in the Fall first appeared on Off the Beaten Path.

The post 5 Destinations to Visit in the Fall appeared first on Off the Beaten Path.

Whether you live on the East Coast or think the West is the best, a road trip down the Pacific Coast Highway allows you to soak in the beauty of this part of the country at your own pace. 

Although sometimes more synonymous with pop culture and Hollywood, California is home to some of the most iconic national parks and wildlife. And the Pacific Northwest maintains its own sense of strong culture in a land dominated by mountains and water. 

From the palm trees and polished coastal towns of Southern California to the emerald forests and wild coasts of the PNW, you can see it all along one stretch of highway, and the occasional detour and pit stop. 

You just need a sense of direction, a reliable vehicle, and some tips from destination experts like us. 

Western Landscapes Make for Picturesque Memories

A West Coast road trip offers endless opportunities for taking in panoramic vistas. Whether admiring expansive ocean views or mountainous landscapes, you’ll remember these scenes for years to come. 

And what better guarantee of natural beauty and wide-open landscapes than America’s national parks? 

The only difficult thing is narrowing down where you want to spend the majority of your time, and in which national parks.

Decide whether you want to stick to the coast and keep your sights set on the Pacific Ocean, or if you’d like to mix it up with a foray inland. 

A California road trip could include any or all of the national parks below, all within a half day’s drive or less from Los Angeles International Airport. 

If you’re looking for a national park unlike any other, Joshua Tree makes any drive worth it with other-worldly landscapes and incredibly starry nights. The towns of Joshua Tree and Twentynine Palms both offer comfortable and stylish lodging options.

Death Valley National Park is a basin that sits below sea level. This land of extreme heat and drought can be surprisingly life-giving with oases filled with fish and occasional super blooms of wildflowers. 

About a 7-hour drive north from Death Valley, iconic Yosemite has staying power for a reason. From its towering granite rock formations to valleys full of waterfalls and sprawling meadows, there are plenty of views to take in and nearly unlimited opportunities for a photo to be captured. It’s optional whether or not Ansel Adams serves as your inspiration. 

Learn about the history of the park along with the conservation movement as you take in the sights of Bridalveil Falls and Lower Yosemite Falls with Off the Beaten Path’s Seasons of Yosemite Tour. 

Thinking about continuing the drive north to cooler and greener places? Keep reading. 

Envisioning Your Ultimate West Coast Road Trip

There are a few things to figure out before putting your plans in ink:

-The amount of time you have available to spend on the road.

-How much time you want to spend in towns versus in national parks and in nature. 

-How much time you want to spend in the car versus exploring by foot, kayak, boat, or bike. 

With more time, you can explore the West Coast from north to south or vice versa, stopping as you please. 

Main landmarks- 

One of the best things about a West Coast road trip is being able to see so many well-renowned sights in a single trip. You’ll find yourself enamored with the mishmash of views and smells that can be found around every corner.

Here are a few highlights not to be missed depending on where your priorities lie. The following destinations are listed from north to south along Highway 101 but can be done in reverse order. 

The Space Needle- This one may seem too obvious to mention, but it really is worth a trip up to the top. You can miss the majority of the crowds by taking a nighttime trip up (it’s open until 10 pm on the weekends) and take in the glow of Mount Rainier and the twinkling lights of the Olympic Peninsula across the sound. 

Mount Rainier, or Mount Tahoma as it’s been known by the local Puyallup people for centuries, commands attention during any clear day in the Puget Sound area. Mount Rainier National Park surrounds the active volcano and offers endless hiking trails that skirt alpine lakes and expansive meadows. A stay at the Paradise Inn with OBP means you can wake up and start hiking straight from your room. 

Point Reyes National Seashore– According to the National Park Service, the peninsula is home to 45% of North American bird species thanks to its variety of habitats. It’s easy to explore its miles of beaches and hiking trails located an hour north of San Francisco. 

Golden Gate Bridge & Park– It’s a crazy feat of engineering, and it’s got beautiful views of San Francisco. The Golden Gate Bridge can take a whole afternoon to explore, which is just fine since the 101 runs right into it. The park grounds include a flower conservatory and a Japanese Tea Garden. 

Fine Dining & Wine Tasting in Charming PNW and California Towns 

It’s always fun to see the sights in San Francisco and Seattle along the coast, but the quainter towns keep stress levels low, especially if you’re not a fan of city driving. 

Here are a handful of charming California and PNW towns worthy of a longer stay. 

Santa Monica– Walk the Santa Monica Pier or do what the locals do- surf, take a yoga class, and eat at one of the numerous juice bars or health food stores located throughout the city. 

Santa Barbara– A wine destination, college, and resort town all wrapped into one. Known as the “American Riviera” with its Mediterranean weather and relaxed, upscale atmosphere. Follow the urban wine trail through town with tasting rooms and working wineries spread throughout the city. 

Carmel by the Sea– Home to the Monterey Bay Aquarium, this compact city by the beach has tide pools and hiking trails to explore as well as farm-to-table restaurants. 

Winthrop– This mountain town on the east side of the Cascades has done a good job preserving its western town glory with faded wood storefronts and wide, walkable streets. Winthrop can be a great pit stop if you’re traveling west into North Cascades National Park and want to do some mountain biking along the way. 

OBP explores many of these towns during the California and PNW experiences. 

Outdoor Activities in California & the PNW

Whether you’re gazing up at giant Redwoods or gazing down on the glacier-formed Yosemite Valley, California, and the neighboring PNW is a hiker’s paradise. But there are many other human-powered ways to take in the beauty of the West.  

You can kayak Crescent Lake and Freshwater Bay in Olympic National as part of OBP’s Pacific Northwest National Parks Grand Slam itinerary. Carmel by the Sea offers multiple options for rentals to kayak in sheltered and calm spots, including the Elkhorn Slough and Monterey Bay. 

Take a boat out in the Channel Islands off the coast of Southern California and chances are you’ll see California sea lions, one or more species of whales, and Western gulls. 

Pedal a beach cruiser along the boulevard by Santa Barbara’s coast or head inland to the Los Padres National Forest and rent a mountain bike. Winthrop also has miles upon miles of single-track winding through the foothills of the Cascades. 

If you’re looking for another way to stretch your legs on the road further south, Balboa Island in Newport contains miles of paved beachfront paths to bike, rollerblade, or stroll. 

Wildlife viewing is possible with every activity above, especially if you hire a naturalist guide who knows where to look, whether it’s by foot or kayak. If desired, OBP tours include at least a couple of guided days with a guide who can tell you about the natural history of the places listed below. 

Unforgettable West Coast Itineraries

Looking for a way to adventure to many of the places mentioned above without all the planning and reservation making? Off the Beaten Path specializes in itineraries that take you away from tourist traps and into the center of a place. 

At the end of any of these adventures, you’ll feel like you’ve really gotten to know the California coast, many of the most iconic national parks in the West, and the magic of the PNW. 

Pacific Northwest National Parks Grand Slam 

Rainier, Olympic, and North Cascades National Parks get a spotlight on this 11-day, 10-night tour.

Some nature highlights include: 

• A two-day hiking adventure in Rainier’s old-growth forests.
• Sea kayak Freshwater Bay and learn about ocean currents. 
• Marvel at the lushness of the Hoh Rainforest.

You’ll also start and end in Seattle, and spend a couple of days exploring Winthrop. 

Find out more about this adventurous excursion here. 

California’s National Parks Grand Slam 

This comprehensive 20-day travel experience offers a relaxed, yet exploratory itinerary of California’s most scenic national parks and coastal towns. 

Some nature highlights to look forward to: 

• Kayaking around the Channel Islands where you can spot whales, dolphins, and elephant seals.
• Explore Redwoods National Park with a naturalist guide.
• Visit the giant forest in Sequoia National Park, home to the largest tree on the planet.

Any California trip would be incomplete without a focus on wine and good food, which features in your stays in Carmel and Santa Barbara. 

You can read more about the tour here. 

Find out which itinerary best suits you and your partner or family by speaking with an OBP travel specialist. 

The post The Ultimate West Coast Road Trip - The Pacific Northwest and California first appeared on Off the Beaten Path.

The post The Ultimate West Coast Road Trip - The Pacific Northwest and California appeared first on Off the Beaten Path.

With hotter days, the West may not seem like a given as a place to travel this summer, but there are plenty of options to stay cool under the summer sun. 

Throughout this blog, we’ll cover a handful of desirable destinations and discover some hidden wonders you can only find in the summer season. 

1. Big Spaces, Big Bend in the Summer

There are a couple of southwestern destinations with the name “Bend” in them, so let’s start with the one in Texas. 

Located just north of the Mexico-United States border, Big Bend National Park ranks as one of the largest and most remote national parks in the contiguous U.S. It’s also part of the largest certified Dark Sky Place in the world. 

And since the busy time to visit falls from October through April, Big Bend in the summer offers those seeking solitude a lot less crowds. Just be sure to take all the precautions that summer in Texas requires. 

This means coming prepared with more water than you think you’ll need, sun protection and navigation skills. 

The heat can be a great motivator to hike early in the morning or later in the evening. This bodes well for spotting certain animals of the region that tend to be more active those times of day. 

Other highlights: 

• When you’ve had enough of the Texas sun, venture over to the town of Marfa where you can wander from gallery to gallery, taking in everything from minimalist sculptures to photo exhibits.  

• Just a little further north of Marfa, a pit stop at Balmorhea State Park rewards you with a giant swimming pool fed by spring water. 

• Watch for the bright red male Vermilion flycatchers, black bears, javelinas, road runners, and golden eagles—also collared lizards, which can be identified by their large heads and black lines around their necks. 

September may be the best time to visit as daytime temperatures start to drop. The Chisos Mountains, the park’s remote location and high altitude make it a prime stargazing spot.

If you’d like to travel with a group or get a private trip designed for you, our Big Secret, Big Bend trip allows you to stay off the beaten path. You’ll hike along the Rio Grande shaded by cottonwood trees in the day and gaze at the night sky while you listen to coyotes howl across the desert.  

2. Horseshoe Bend: A Cool Pitstop 

Located in Northern Arizona, the second “Bend” destination is aptly named for the giant horseshoe looking bend in the Colorado River. 

Made up of sandstone, Horseshoe Bend formed around 5 million years ago when the Colorado Plateau lifted. The river followed gravity to eventually carve out the bend that’s now part of Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. 

Avoid the crowds flocking to the overlooks by heading out to watch the sunrise instead of the sunset. 

Horseshoe Bend serves as a great destination on its own or can be part of a longer trip to the nearby Grand Canyon, such as Off the Beaten Path’s custom trip,  Southwest National Parks Grand Slam. You’ll get a chance to experience “Utah’s Mighty 5” as well as take in other dramatic monuments of these red rock lands. 

3. Mesa Verde: The Coolest Archeological Site of the Southwest  

If you’re looking to combine history and hiking into one trip, then Mesa Verde ranks as a great place to travel during the summer.

Not far from the town of Durango, Colorado, Mesa Verde National Park gives you a view into the lives of Ancient Puebloan People who inhabited the area for more than 700 years, starting in 550 AD. You’re able to see some of the best-preserved Puebloan ruins in the U.S. 

In 1906, Mesa Verde became the first national park established for the main purpose of protecting its natural archeological artifacts. 

Now, it’s famous for the cliff dwellings among the canyon walls and the beautiful canyons surrounding the park. 

Short hikes will take you to these iconic archaeological sites located in beautiful pine forests. The overlook at the Spruce Tree House offers views of one of the best preserved in the park.

Summer’s a great time to visit Mesa Verde, since that’s the only time the national park offers national park-offered tours, aside from privately booked tours. 

Mesa Verde also happens to be part of OBP’s Puebloan Mystery Tour, on which you can uncover some of the intrigue of these ancient cultures and earn insight from present day descendants of Pueblo Indians. 

4. Zion National Park: Cool Canyons and More Dark Skies

Zion will wow you with the beautiful Virgin River, majestic cottonwoods and hikes that involve wading through rivers. And of course, the twinkling night sky that gives it a stargazing reputation. 

The cool thing about summer in Zion? 

You don’t have to worry as much about snow melting, causing flash floods and jeopardizing your safety while hiking in the canyons. Most of the snowpack in higher elevations melts by mid-summer.

However, nature’s always unpredictable, and summer monsoons can still cause flash floods. So keep an eye on the forecast and check in with the ranger station before heading out. 

Zion in the summer means warmer water temperatures for wading and exploring the Narrows, and more opportunity to see reptiles sunning themselves, like the collared lizard. 

If you stick around come nighttime, you might see the nocturnal ringtail. It’s a relative of the raccoon that hunts for insects in the rock layers. 

Since it’s the busiest time of year to visit the park, travel with us to make sure you stay off the beaten path. You’ll see the main highlights in the company of a guide that knows how to navigate the crowds and find the hidden gems in our Essential Southwest Circuit trip. 

5. The Great American West: Cool Mountain Air & Wild Animals 

In a land of big skies, large predators, and rugged mountains, the weather in the mountain west adds another layer of excitement to the everyday scene. 

Rolling thunderstorms soak the valleys in dramatic displays of the power of nature. You might see the skies light up the snow-capped peaks or witness the effects of melting snowpack from the banks of a raging river. 

The American West gives you an opportunity to revel in the power of mother nature every moment, whether that’s on a hike, floating by on a wild river, or watching the food chain play out like a show.

Iconic America from the Black Hills to Yellowstone National Park

It may be hard to settle on an itinerary in this region of the states since there’s so much to see, from Devil’s Tower in Wyoming to Old Faithful in Yellowstone. 

Our Off the Beaten Path tour of the Great American West includes many of the iconic destinations that shaped this country’s history, including Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse memorial, and the Little Bighorn Battlefield. 

Let’s start with South Dakota as one of the places to travel this summer, since it’s an underrated destination for outdoor lovers. 

You can easily explore the beautiful Black Hills and nearby rolling plains with four wheels and a general sense of direction. 

Stop at Sylvan Lake in the Needles for a picnic or ride a bike up Spearfish Canyon early in the morning before all of the motorcycle and car traffic starts. 

Other highlights: 

• For something totally different, consider a cave tour. There’s a bunch of options, from the local mom-and-pop Wonderland Cave with its dripping formations, to the drier and mind-boggling size of Wind Caves National Park. 

• Just over the Wyoming border remains a sacred site of the Lakota people known as Devil’s Tower. It’s a great place to watch the sun set and to contemplate the oral histories to do with its creation.

• Moving west from there, you’ll eventually enter Montana and drive towards Bighorn Battlefield. There’s nothing that compares to learning about history at the place where it unfolded. 

Yellowstone Wildlife Safari: Life in the Full Force of Summer

Bubbling hot springs, animated geysers, hot springs bursting to life with a bouquet of color, and huge ungulates and predators like the grizzly bear roam this wild land, allowing you to feel up close and personal with nature. 

Of course, Yellowstone takes the main stage as a place to travel this summer. 

Why visit Yellowstone in the summer? 

It’s when life comes out in full force after a usually long, harsh, but calm winter. 

Look out for the red crowns of sandhill cranes and the curved necks of great blue herons in the sky. In any of the area’s many open valleys, you might see some bison grazing or maybe a grizzly bear chomping on huckleberries. 

Other highlights: 

• Head to the Lamar Valley in the northeast corner of the park for a chance to see wolf packs and herds of bison. 

• Don’t forget to look down as well as across the horizon. If you visit the area around the beginning to middle of summer, the wildflowers will be blooming. Colors range from bright pink fireweed to the orange red hues of Indian Paintbrush and ever-present white clouds of yarrow.

Want to avoid the bustle of Yellowstone in the summer? A trip with us means dawn-to-dusk wildlife viewing with a naturalist guide, a hike along the rim of The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, and a hot springs soak. 

What do all of these places to travel to in the summer have in common? Opportunities for sightseeing, extreme environments, and chances to stay off the beaten path. 

The post 5 Exciting Destinations to Consider This Summer first appeared on Off the Beaten Path.

The post 5 Exciting Destinations to Consider This Summer appeared first on Off the Beaten Path.

Here are 7 iconic animals that define Alaska and how you can see them.

1. Brown Bears

Alaska is home to two species of bear: brown bears and black bears. Brown bears, interchangeably known as grizzly bears, can be found throughout Alaska, including Katmai National Park and the Kenai Peninsula. Alaska is home to about 98% of the US brown bear population, so it is no surprise that around 375,000 people each year travel to the state to experience these animals. It’s no wonder why people want to see brown bears, as they can grow to a massive 10 feet tall on their hind legs and weigh up to 1,500 pounds.

Bears are an important part of Alaska’s ecosystem and help to maintain a healthy balance between prey and predator species. However, bears can also be dangerous to people, particularly if they are surprised or feel threatened. So, it’s important to practice bear safety when visiting Alaska, including carrying bear spray, making noise while hiking, sticking with an experienced guide, and properly storing food and garbage to avoid attracting bears. Many folks choose for safety, knowledge, and opportunity for proximity. Seeing a brown bear is not necessarily rare, but a guided tour does help your chances of making sure you see one before you leave.

There are several areas in Alaska where you can see bears, including Katmai National Park, Denali National Park, Kenai Fjords National Park, and Lake Clark National Park. Katmai National Park is home to one of the densest populations of brown bears in the world and possibly the best bear viewing experience on the planet. The Brooks River in Katmai is home to a large population of brown bears that come to feast on the buffet of salmon that swim upstream during the summer months. Observers can enjoy the spectacle from viewing platforms along the river, watching the bears hunt in the splash of the falls or meander the sandy river banks. Don’t worry, these platforms are designed with safety in mind as well as with good views. In the vibrant greens and blues of Lake Clark National Park, bear enthusiasts can experience brown bears in proximity alongside the breathtaking beauty of the natural brown bear environment. Immersive camps and fly-out bear viewing activities allow you to intimately watch brown bears swim, play, and dig for clams under the safety of an expert guide that is eager to share their depth of knowledge.

2. Humpback Whales

The aptly named humpback whale is a common sight in Alaska. Whale watchers and wayward kayakers alike can experience the sheer size and awe of a breaching 35-ton whale. These whales are known for their showmanship and acrobatics, including: breaching, tail slapping, and flipper waving. These acts serve a purpose for attracting mates, communicating, and also just for play. Another uniquity is the humpback’s bubble-net feeding strategy. This involves a group of whales blowing bubbles around a school of fish, effectively shepherding the fish to the center of the net-like bubbles. Then, the whales will swim mouth open through the center of the bubble-net to collect the fruit (or fish) of their labors.

Humpback whales migrate to the bountiful Alaskan waters each summer from warmer waters in Hawaii or Mexico for the abundance of krill and small fish. Once a member of the endangered species list, massive conservation efforts aided by ecotourism have rebounded the humpback whale population, and the humpback was delisted in 2016. Your best chance to see these enormous creatures is on a tour of the Inside Passage during the summer, when there are an estimated 600 whales calling Glacier Bay National Park and the surrounding waters their home. Whale watchers can visit cinematic Point Adolphus and the blue spectrum of Glacier Bay to see these giants swirl through the water amongst sea otters, sea lions, porpoises, and orcas. Visitors can best see this iconic animal by boat, and there are guided tours and trips to see these whales breach and play framed by a backdrop of mountains and glaciers. Glacier Bay and the Inside Passage is home to diverse and abundant marine life, making it a top destination for whale watching and other marine tourism.

3. Caribou

Recognized in other parts of the globe as reindeer, caribou are native to Alaska and number more than 750,000. Reindeer and caribou share the same species and genus name; however, caribou have slightly longer legs and leaner bodies, while reindeer typically refers to domesticated animals. Caribou are migratory mammals and herds can cover up to 50 miles a day and up to 400 miles between warm summer and frosted winters. Unlike any other species of deer, both female and male caribou grow antlers. Male antlers are typically larger, while female antlers are typically shorter and irregular.

The Nunamiut people of Northern Alaska have deep ties to caribou, cultivated for over 10,000 years. For these inland people, caribou represents food, shelter, clothing, and even transportation. Once nomadic and following caribou migration, the Nunamiut people have now settled in Anaktuvuk Pass in Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve along a major caribou migration route. Take a look at the collection of Nunamiut caribou skin masks if you are in the area, not to be confused with a skincare mask you would see in a drugstore.

There are 32 herds of caribou in Alaska. If you want to maximize your chance of seeing caribou, you will want to visit the arctic and interior regions of Alaska. Explore the vast, untouched wilderness of Gates of the Arctic National Park. Caribou can be found here migrating through explosions of colorful wildflower fields, endless stretches of tundra, and across pristine rivers teeming with wildlife. Alternatively, you can hike through the raw boreal forests of Kobuk Valley National Park, passing the lichens and ground vegetation that sustain caribou. Outside of these more remote and backcountry areas, Denali National Park is also home to the Denali herd of nearly 2,000 caribou dwelling in the park’s expansive tundra that extends as far as the eye can see. Visitors can book a tour of Alaska’s national parks to maximize their chances of witnessing these migratory mammals.

4. Gray Wolves

Have you ever looked at your sleeping six-pound lap dog and remembered that it is a descendant of wolves? Weighing in between 60 and 145 pounds is the powerful and respected gray wolf. Nearly hunted to extinction, gray wolves used to cover the entirety of North America. Now, they have a reliable home in Alaska and are one of the iconic animals that make up the Great Land.

Gray wolves are social animals, living and hunting in pack structures typically between 4 and 9 members. Wolf packs are made up of a breeding pair and their offspring, not unlike a family unit, and pack sizes vary depending on territory size, food availability, and reproductive success. Similar to bridge clubs or trivia teams, pack membership can also vary due to individual behavior and social dynamics. These wolves communicate through howling, growling, and whining. These noises also serve to mark their territory in addition to communication between pack members. This territory size is particularly remarkable in Alaska and can range from 50 to 1,000 square miles. Gray wolves hunt by tracking and ambushing, so they prefer dense forests, rocky outcrops, and other rugged landscapes that offer cover for stalking and hiding.

Gray wolves in Alaska are an important part of the state’s ecosystem and play a key role in maintaining healthy populations of prey animals. As top predators, they help regulate populations of deer, elk, and other prey species, which in turn helps maintain the health and diversity of the state’s forests and other habitats. While they can be found throughout the state, the largest populations of gray wolves can be found in areas with high amounts of prey like caribou and moose. This means your best chance of seeing this iconic animal in the wild is by touring Alaska’s national parks. The towering peaks of the Alaska Range in Denali National Park, the mirror lakes of Lake Clark National Park, and the solitude of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park all have varied wildlife including gray wolves.

5. Dall Sheep

Coming with a “Don’t Try This at Home” warning label is Dall Sheep. Dall sheep never took a physics class in high school, so they can perform unbelievable feats like ignoring gravity and trotting straight up the sides of mountains. Alaska is home to 20% of the world’s Dall sheep population and spotting them requires scanning mountain slopes and jagged cliffs. Look closely because their distinctive white coat acts as camouflage with the snowy landscape, but with vegetation or rock as a background, they are more easily seen.

Males, known as rams, have strongly curled horns and are infamous for their headbutt-fighting ritual. However, most dominance displays are solved nonviolently. Females, known as ewes, also have horns. These horns are typically smaller and less curved than their male counterparts. Ram horns can account for up to 10% of a grown ram’s weight, and similar to trees, you can tell the age of a sheep by counting the rings or ridges on their horns.

Dall sheep are native to alpine regions and tend to stick to rocky cliffs, hillsides, and other steep surfaces they can use to evade predators. If Dall sheep are on your list of wildlife to see, you will want to visit Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, Chugach, or the Kenai Mountains. Serious sightseers can seek out travel tours of Alaska’s national parks to maximize their chances of seeing Dall sheep.

6. Moose

Moose are one of the most iconic animals of Alaska and are found throughout the state and Alaska’s national parks. They are the largest species of deer, can weigh up to 1,500 pounds, and stand up to seven feet tall at the shoulder. Moose have large bodies, thick fur, and long legs that are adapted to move through deep snow. Warmer months means these herbivores can snack on leaves, twigs, tree bark, and shrubs. Colder months, however, means moose can eat lichens and other plants that grow under the snow.

While generally solitary animals, moose may form small groups during the winter. Breeding season in the fall brings competition, and males will fight each other with their distinctive antlers. These antlers can grow to be six feet long and 40 pounds. Male moose, also known as bulls, will grow antlers in the spring and then shed them by winter. This cycle happens because after mating season, the antlers can be a hindrance to a bull’s movement and survival. Thus, moose shed their antlers, conserve energy that would otherwise be spent on maintaining and growing antlers, and then regrow antlers in the spring. Hikers, hunters, and nature enthusiasts can stumble across these antlers during their outdoor escapades; however, collection and use of these antlers is regulated in Alaska. It is illegal to disturb or harm wildlife for their antlers.

Alaska has one of the largest populations of moose in the world, with an estimated 200,000-250,000 animals in the state. Moose enthusiasts can often see moose swimming across rivers and lakes in Alaska, since they can swim long distances. They are a common sight in the Great Land, and you could even see a moose wandering near big cities. In the wild, Denali National Park, Chugach National Park, and the Kenai Peninsula all house large populations of moose. When gazing upon these massive shaggy animals, be sure to give them plenty of space. Like all wild animals, they can be dangerous or aggressive if they feel threatened.

7. Bald Eagles

The national bird of the United States can be found throughout Alaska, and the state is home to more bald eagles than any other state in the United States with an estimated 30,000 raptors. Bald eagles in Alaska are found in a variety of habitats, including coastal areas, river systems, and lakes. They tend to prefer areas with large trees for nesting and plenty of fish for food. These nests can grow to be several feet across and weigh hundreds of pounds as the eagles return to the same nest year after year with new renovations and additions each season.

Bald eagles are identifiable by their iconic white feathered head and tail, dark brown feathered body and wings, and striking yellow eyes. In Alaska, bald eagles primarily feed on fish, but they will also eat small mammals and birds. They are known for their impressive hunting skills and can dive at speeds of up to 100 miles per hour to catch their prey. Their wingspan of up to seven feet is broad and flat as they soar, with feathered “fingers” at the tips for precise maneuvering and control.

Bald eagles can be seen throughout Alaska, but some of the best viewing opportunities are in places like Haines along the Inside Passage, where they congregate during the annual salmon runs. Visitors can spot bald eagles in the wild if they are scanning trees, but some of the best opportunities to see this iconic animal is on a guided tour. Bald eagle watching tours are available in many parts of the state. Possibly the best viewing experience for bird watchers is a float through the Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve. You can enjoy the view of the towering Chilkat Mountains as the birds swoop down for fast food while your raft drifts down the Chilkat River.

Iconic Alaskan Wildlife Tours

These 7 iconic wildlife species make Alaska a must-visit for animal lovers. Whether you want to study the fishing technique of massive grizzlies or whether you desire a water aerobics class taught by a 50-foot-long humpback whale, Off the Beaten Path can provide. Expert guides and custom tours can help you see all the iconic Alaskan wildlife you came to see.

The post Alaska's Wildlife: 7 Iconic Animals of the Great Land first appeared on Off the Beaten Path.

The post Alaska's Wildlife: 7 Iconic Animals of the Great Land appeared first on Off the Beaten Path.