From the Kenai Peninsula to Wonder Lake in Denali National Park, grizzlies are a fixture of the Alaskan wilderness. And more than any other state, Alaska presents the traveler with a wealth of opportunities to witness grizzlies in the wild. Off The Beaten Path hosts several trips to the state with departures from June to September. Grizzly bear viewing is a staple of all our trips to “The Great Land.”

“I always wanted to go to Alaska because of the bears,” Off The Beaten Path traveler Sharon Kornhaus said. “Grizzly bears always appealed to me. Seeing black bears always appealed to me. I figured coming to Alaska pretty much guaranteed seeing some major wildlife. And we did.”

During the 19^th century, the grizzly bear was classified as 86 distinct species, but by 1928, only seven remained. Today, there is one recognized species of grizzly bear, which is genetically identical to the brown bear. Grizzlies once ranged as far south as Central Mexico. Today, grizzlies inhabit only a small portion of the lower 48, present in Yellowstone National Park and the Northern Rockies of Montana. While there are healthy grizzly populations in northwest Canada, Alaska is far and away the best place to see them.

Alaska has two distinct populations of grizzly bears: those that thrive in the coastal regions and those of interior Alaska. Both populations of bears are fascinating, and Off The Beaten Path offers trips to experience each.

Open wide. Grizzly bear, Katmai National Park, Alaska.

Coastal brown bears benefit from the bounty of the sea and are typically larger and darker in color than their interior cousins. You’ll see coastal grizzlies digging clams on beaches and hunting salmon in estuaries and coastal river systems. The abundance of salmon and other foods means that coastal brown bears rarely need to compete for limited resources. Instead, coastal bears will congregate and work together to capitalize on the seasonal abundance.

“Our coastal brown bears tend to be a lot larger because they have that rich protein of salmon in their diet,” Off The Beaten Path guide Jen Shapley said. “Over generations, they’ve evolved to be bigger bears.”

Brooks Falls in the heart of Katmai National Park and Preserve is Alaska’s most iconic location for viewing grizzlies hunting salmon. Up to two dozen bears vie for prime feeding positions above and below the six-foot falls. These bears wait for leaping salmon migrating upriver to their ancestral spawning grounds in Brooks Lake. A captured fish makes for a healthy meal for a hungry bear and an excellent photograph if you happen to be quick with the camera. The best time to view grizzlies at Brooks Falls is from July to September.

Getting the shot while bear viewing in Katmai National Park, Alaska.

Katmai National Park and nearby Lake Clark National Park offer countless other opportunities for coastal brown bear viewing. Off The Beaten Path arranges flyout excursions from Homer to remote locations within both parks. With the help of local guides and the bush pilots, travelers can get out on foot in the wilderness to observe bears up close. Seeing the slash of a salmon rushing upstream and the speed of a grizzly in pursuit is a moment you will never forget.

“The great thing about being able to do the flyout trips to either Lake Clark National Park or Katmai National Park is that we have amazing pilots that always know where the bears are,” Shapley said. “Flying over the landscape in Alaska really takes it to a whole new level.”

On a flyout to Katmai National Park our group spotted bears hunting salmon in a small stream flowing off the glaciated summit of Mount Douglas. We circled over the mountain and a steaming emerald lake, hinting at the region’s volcanic geology, before landing our plane on a remote beach. The adage that a fed bear is a happy bear proved true. Moving in groups of six to eight, we were able to approach and photograph several grizzlies hunting salmon in the shallow creek. A hushed silence consumed our group, very much witness to the natural spectacle before us.

Alaska’s interior grizzly bears rely on a diversity of food sources, including berries, seeds, and forbs. Contrary to their coastal kin, the bears of Denali National Park have a diet that consists of 80 percent vegetation. They are generally smaller and often exhibit a blonde coat, in striking contrast to the bears of the coast.

A Tolkat grizzly bear forages blueberries in Denali National Park, Alaska.

Alaskans have a special name for these blonde-haired grizzlies. They are referred to by locals as “Tolkat” bears after the Tolkat River in Denali National Park. These blonde bears have brown legs and sometimes a chocolate patch down the spine. Seeing a Tolkat grizzly in Denali National Park is a special experience. There are an estimated 350 bears within the park’s 6 million acres.

We were fortunate to see a Tolkat grizzly near Denali Backcountry Lodge during our stay. Following an afternoon spent foraging wild blueberries near the shores of Wonder Lake, we departed for the lodge in our van, busily consuming our berries. As we passed below a cliff, a Tolkat appeared from the forest. Its curious expression indicated a young bear that seemed as surprised to see us as we were him. We watched in amazement as he descended the cliff and passed just a few feet from our van. He was bright blonde, unlike any bear any of us had ever seen. He vanished as quickly as he’d appeared into the spruce forest, leaving us awestruck.

Grizzly bears are one of Alaska’s most powerful mammals and can be seen throughout much of the state.

To see Alaska’s largest brown bears, you’ll want to seek out the Kodiak brown bear (Ursus arctos middendorffi). These bruins inhabit the Kodiak Archipelago off Alaska’s southwest coast. They are the second largest bears on the planet, surpassed in size only by another Alaska native – the polar bear. Kodiaks can be one-and-a-half to two times as large as Alaska’s interior bears. The largest Kodiaks have been known to reach weights over 1,500 pounds and stand more than 10 feet tall.

Grizzly bear claws, Katmai National Park, Alaska.

With such an abundance of wild and protected country, Alaska truly is The Last Frontier. There’s no better place in the world to witness the raw power and majesty of nature. Everyone who loves wild places and wildlife should make the time to experience this incredible place and its amazing brown bears.

The post Close Encounters with Alaska’s Grizzlies first appeared on Off the Beaten Path.

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Find Your Next Off the Beaten Path Journey

Our goal is simple: Helping you connect with our great, big, beautiful world in new and meaningful ways. Ready to head to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, but want a little help with the details? At Off the Beaten Path, we’re here to help you craft your dream vacation, whether it’s wildlife, geysers, or hiking that you crave. With local knowledge and expert guides, we can fill in the gaps to create the perfect custom itinerary for your Greater Yellowstone adventure.

The post VIDEO: Essence of Yellowstone & Grand Teton - Heart of the Wild first appeared on Off the Beaten Path.

The post VIDEO: Essence of Yellowstone & Grand Teton - Heart of the Wild appeared first on Off the Beaten Path.

Yellowstone National Park is a land of incredible beauty and stunning diversity. The park is home to more than 10,000 thermal features, some exhibiting the most vibrant hues found anywhere in nature. The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone has inspired artists for generations: its Upper and Lower Falls are as dramatic a sight as anywhere in North America. The park is home to more grizzly bears than any other region in the Lower 48.

It’s no wonder Yellowstone surges with excitement each spring. Visitors clamor to witness the majesty of Old Faithful’s timely eruptions, the first steps of an elk calf in Lamar Valley, and the changing hue of the aspen leaves in the golden light of fall. But there’s another season in Yellowstone, one that sees few visitors but no less drama. Winter in Yellowstone is the park’s magical season, when quiet, solitude, and austere beauty abound. Bison, their beards cloaked in frost, emerge from the misty domain of Yellowstone’s geyser basins. Snowflakes fall in silence to the forest floor beside towering lodgepole pines. Wolves battle the elements in a timeless struggle for survival.

A wolf roams a windswept hillside in Yellowstone National Park.

Off the Beaten Path has been leading winter excursions into Yellowstone National Park for over 20 years. These trips offer guests a unique opportunity to witness Yellowstone’s winter magic. Snowcoaches (large and comfortable heated vehicles equipped with tracks for travel on the park’s snow-covered roads) ferry visitors to the interior reaches of Yellowstone. A stay at Old Faithful Inn and a tour around the snow-cloaked Upper Geyser Basin reveal a rarely seen glimpse of Yellowstone.

One of the highlights of visiting Yellowstone in winter is the chance to see some of the park’s most iconic wildlife.

“Many of Yellowstone’s species congregate together, particularly near the Firehole, Madison and Gibbon rivers. Those rivers don’t freeze in the winter months (due to thermal influence),” OBP guide Brenda Holland said. “Winter is the best time for wildlife viewing, especially wolves, because they are going to move in those corridors where the prey animals will be.”

Set against a backdrop of snow, wolves are easier to spot and observe during the winter months. Wolves are social animals, and when not on the hunt, you can observe them playing in the snow and interacting in a way rarely possible during the rest of the year. In addition to the rivers around Madison Junction, the hills above the Roosevelt Arch near Gardiner, the Lamar Valley, and the Old Faithful area are good places to spot wolves. A pair of binoculars or a spotting scope can be helpful, but during the winter season, closer encounters are not uncommon.

Bison thrive in Yellowstone’s harsh winter climate. The largest land mammal in North America, the bison can weigh more than 2,000 pounds. To survive in the extreme temperatures of winter, bison consume up to 35 pounds of grass a day. You’ll see bulls swinging their massive heads side to side like a snowplow to reach the grass buried beneath the powder. Large herds of bison can be observed in Lamar Valley, Hayden Valley, and along the rivers in Yellowstone.

Red fox is another favorite winter wildlife species. Their bright red coats and fluffy tails are stunningly colorful against the winter white. Red fox hunts rodents traveling in tunnels beneath the snow. They’ll listen for movement and pounce, diving face-first deep into the snow to capture a meal.   

No trip to Yellowstone is complete without witnessing Old Faithful erupt. This experience during winter is unlike any other. As temperatures in the park dip below freezing, the volume of the steam from the park’s thermal features is amplified. To see Old Faithful at its most dramatic, you’ve got to be in Yellowstone from mid-December through mid-March, and the colder the better. Billowing clouds of steam rising into the blue sky make for an unforgettable sight.

Old Faithful billows clouds of steam into the winter sky.

Aside from the copious amounts of steam venting from Upper Geyser Basin, the other thing you’ll notice is the sound – or lack thereof – all around you. Winter’s silence draws you deeper into the park, making a visit to Yellowstone even more profound.

“Without the crowds you can actually hear the geysers erupting, the waterfalls flowing, the animals moving through the snow,” Holland said. “It makes it exciting walking around.”

From Old Faithful Inn, visitors can tour the area via snowcoach or get out into the park on cross-country skis or snowshoes. Returning to the inn is the perfect way to relax. Designed by architect Robert Reamer and built in 1903-04, this historic structure remains the largest log hotel in the world. You can warm up next to the massive stone fireplace in the towering lobby of the inn. And you’ll be within a short walk of Old Faithful should you decide to venture out at a moment’s notice to enjoy the show.

Snow covers the walls of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.

Off The Beaten Path offers winter departures into Yellowstone from December through February. Whether it’s your first time visiting Yellowstone or you’ve been many times before, a trip into the park during the winter is always memorable.

The post Yellowstone’s Winter Wonder first appeared on Off the Beaten Path.

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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.

Phil and Marilyn get ready to fly

Intrepid DIY adventurers with a passion for exploration. Intrigued by Alaska’s stunning beauty, vast terrain, and unique culture, they’d set their sights on the challenging frontier of visiting the five national parks without road access. They turned to OBP to craft a customized journey tailored to their goals and interests – an adventure spanning 17 days, 5 national parks, and boasting unique overnight stays in 7 total destinations, each with personalized daily activities.

For those dreaming of their own Alaskan adventure, Phil and Marilyn offer valuable advice:

Invest in a well-planned journey while embracing surprises for a truly unforgettable experience.

Phil and Marilyn in Kobuk Valley National Park

An Interview with Phil and Marilyn:

Q: What inspired you to take this adventure?

Phil and Marilyn: A few years ago, we set ourselves the ambitious goal of visiting all the national parks in the country. Having already visited three of Alaska’s national parks, we were drawn to the challenge of venturing into its five national parks that have no road access. With its vast terrain, unpredictable weather, and unique culture, Alaska poses some logistical challenges, and we turned to OBP to create a customized journey tailored just for us and our goals and interests – 17 days, 5 national parks, and 7 overnight destinations.

Q: Can you share a highlight of your trip?

Phil and Marilyn: The White Pass train journey turned out to be breathtaking. OBP strategically booked us on the very last train car, which had a beautiful viewing deck facing back down the tracks, giving us a unique vantage point. The rainy, misty morning gave way to rainbows and stunning views. It was just lovely! That unexpected beauty just added to the overall charm of the trip.

A view from the skies, while flying over a floodplain in the Alaskan wilderness

Q: Did you have any surprises?

Phil and Marilyn: Alaska’s weather is reliably unreliable, and we experienced that reality head-on. For instance, our flight from Skagway to Juneau was canceled due to weather, prompting us to take alternative transportation on a regular ferry. The ferry experience was completely unique – it’s the real deal, the way lots of locals travel. There are huge trucks and equipment on the boat’s deck, and despite the weather, some folks even set up tents instead of staying inside the cabin. We have nothing like that back east! Embracing change became a central theme, opening up doorways to delightful, off-the-beaten-path adventures, like exploring Glacier Bay on land when weather disrupted our boat tour. The experience of hiking through rainforests and seeing the Tlingit Healing Totem Pole and Tribal House was spectacular – yet another highlight.

Q: Any other interesting “plan B” experiences?

Phil and Marilyn: Oh, yes! When fog prevented us from visiting Admiralty Island, OBP guided us to Chichagof Island instead, offering an incredible encounter with giant Alaskan brown bears. This change in plans allowed us to capture stunning photos from water level, providing a more intimate wildlife experience.

A glacial river flows in the backcountry of the Alaskan wilderness

Q: What about the logistics?

Phil and Marilyn: Logistics for a trip like this are challenging, especially considering the remote locations and reliance on small planes, let alone the sheer length and scope of the trip. Working with OBP allowed us to connect with reliable lodges and air transportation services. We particularly enjoyed the lodge at Lake Clark – something we might not have sprung for had we planned things ourselves, but it was such a wonderful time and absolutely worthwhile! It just goes to show that investing wisely (both time and money) in a trip like this really makes all the difference in what you experience, and OBP’s inside expertise helped us make wise and worthwhile investments every step of the way.

The rugged, looming, and beautiful mountains of Alaska

Q: Can you share more about those local perspectives?

Phil: You know, we love authentic travel. We’re not necessarily looking for the trendy spots – we want to experience something more real than that. And Alaska has so much to offer in that realm.

Take Kotzebue, for example, so, realistically, there’s only one hotel tourists visit. And near the hotel is a sign reading “WELCOME TO OTZ,” OTZ being the three-letter airport code. Every time we said Kotzebue, the town’s name, someone would correct us on the pronunciation. It seemed like even the residents had their own takes on how to say it. So we whimsically suggested that the sign could better read as “Oz.” Like this uniquely isolated land might be another world altogether – “WELCOME TO OZ.”

Marilyn: One morning, I was out walking solo, and struck up a conversation with a lady with a little two-year-old. She shared that she was helping out at the local orphanage and working to give kids without homes some support and engagement, that sort of thing. It turns out too that her husband was the fire chief in town. Coincidentally, I’d just been reading a book on fire services in Alaska that I picked up during one of our ferry rides and thought her husband might have been mentioned in it. And so I left her that book, which she hadn’t known. Later, we ran into them on another plane flight. It was so special to get that taste of how genuine and interconnected those Alaskan communities are.

Unique view of towering mountains in Alaska

Q: What advice would you give to others considering their own Alaskan National Park adventure?

Phil and Marilyn: Allocate enough time to really make the most of your journey, especially considering potential delays and the overall vastness of Alaska. Embrace flexibility in your plans – the unexpected often leads to unique and memorable experiences. Investing in a well-planned trip, even if it seems costly, guarantees a better return on the overall experience. Reading books beforehand and digging into local culture and wildlife will enhance the journey. Alaska rewards those who take the time to explore beyond the touristy spots – OBP’s help was critical in making the most of our trip, which made for an unforgettable 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 Alaskan Travel Tales From Phil and Marilyn Nelson first appeared on Off the Beaten Path.

The post Alaskan Travel Tales From Phil and Marilyn Nelson 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.

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.

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.

The air is crisp and cool, and the darkness is so pure that you can hear the sound of silence. The Milky Way stretches out like a cosmic highway, and shooting stars blaze across the sky like fireworks. It’s a place where time seems to stand still, and the worries of the world fade away into the background.

One of the most beautiful things about stargazing is that you don’t have to be a professional astronomer to appreciate the world’s amazing night skies — though, a telescope, celestial map, and experienced guide can certainly help.

If you’re ready to dive into the extraordinary world of International Dark Sky Places and discover the best ways to experience them and reconnect with nature in a more meaningful way, keep reading.

What is an International Dark Sky Place?

An International Dark Sky Place (IDSP) is an area, often a park or protected land, that has been designated a sanctuary for natural darkness by the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) for its preservation of the exceptional quality of starry nights.

The IDA is a non-profit organization that works to protect International Dark Sky Places and promote the importance of natural darkness for wildlife, human health, and cultural heritage to preserve the night sky for future generations.

There are different levels of designation for International Dark Sky Places, including Dark Sky Sanctuaries, Parks, Reserves, and Communities. These designations acknowledge efforts to reduce light pollution, raise awareness about the benefits of natural darkness, and encourage sustainable lighting practices.

In order for national parks to be officially designated an International Dark Sky Park, they must meet strict criteria set by the IDA, including:

• Demonstrating high-quality starry nights
• Implementing responsible lighting practices
• Providing public education and outreach programs
• Monitoring the impact of artificial light on the night sky

5 International Dark Sky Parks to Add to Your Bucket List

With reduced light pollution, the stars and planets shine brighter, and the constellations and galaxies are more visible to the naked eye. International Dark Sky Parks are not only a haven for astronomers and astrophotographers, but also for anyone seeking a peaceful and illuminating experience under the stars.

Out of 115 protected properties around the world with International Dark Sky Park status, we’ve rounded up our top 5 national parks that we recommend for a quiet nighttime escape that will leave you feeling awe-struck by nature’s beauty.

“We all travel the Milky Way together, trees and men”
 – John Muir

Galaxy in night sky above iconic landscapes of Big Bend National Park, Texas.

1. Big Bend National Park 

Starting strong and spanning over 15,000 square miles in Texas and Mexico, the Greater Big Bend International Dark Sky Reserve is the largest certified Dark Sky Place in the world.

Big Bend National Park takes its role as a protector of the night sky very seriously, investing in extra measures to reduce light pollution and preserve the natural beauty of the night sky. Visitors are asked to do their part, as well, by using red lights instead of white lights, avoiding flash photography, keeping their car headlights off, etc.

These measures, together with the park’s remote location and high altitude, make Big Bend an unbelievably special destination for astronomy enthusiasts and stargazers alike seeking to experience the beauty of the night sky.

Lastly, not only is stargazing at Big Bend an unparalleled experience, but this park is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the southwestern United States.

Want to experience Big Bend off the beaten path? Our fully guided Big Secret, Big Bend Small Group Adventures is hand-crafted by destination experts to help you feel like a local!

Starry sky above Joshua Tree National Park, California.

2. Joshua Tree National Park 

If you’re planning a stargazing trip, we also highly recommend adding Joshua Tree National Park to your Bucket List. Located 3,000-6,000 feet above sea level in the High Desert of Southern California, Joshua Tree is a stunning International Dark Sky Park that is far from the light pollution of any major city.

Its stunning desert landscape features the twisted, spiky branches of the park’s namesake, Joshua Trees, which are a species of yucca that only grow in this part of the world. They not only add to the park’s otherworldly beauty, but also make for a stunning backdrop for viewing the stars.

Additionally, with the rise of an astrotourism base, the park has taken an increasingly active role in preserving natural darkness. Through unique opportunities, like ranger-led night sky programs, visitors can learn more about the stars and the importance of preserving dark skies.

Stargazing in Joshua Tree is a uniquely breathtaking experience that will no-doubt leave you in awe. Want to catch The Milky Way? It is only visible for about 8-10 days each month from March through September, so plan accordingly!

If you’re looking to make the most of your trip to the desert, our uniquely curated Joshua Tree and Death Valley National Parks’ Small Group Adventure, filled with fun hiking and memorable lodging, is perfect for you.

Rocky monolith against starry night sky in Capitol Reef National Park, Utah.

3. Capitol Reef National Park 

Roughly 80% of Americans live in an area where they cannot see the Milky Way. This isn’t a problem when stargazing in Utah—a world leader in Dark Sky Places, thanks to its naturally dark areas and communities who work hard to protect them.

Located in a remote area of southern Utah, Capitol Reef National Park offers some of the best stargazing in both the state and the world. One feature that makes stargazing in Capitol Reef National Park extra special is the ability to see the Milky Way from both the east and west sides of the park.

Want extra clear and brilliant views of the stars and constellations? We recommend visiting in the fall and winter when Utah’s dry air makes the night sky appear even brighter.

It’s no doubt that Capitol Reef National Park offers a unique and unforgettable stargazing experience. With its remote location, commitment to protecting the night sky, and unique views of the Milky Way, travelers are sure to remember their visit for a lifetime.

Check the wild desertscapes of Capitol Reef National Park off your bucket list, in addition to 9 others, in our Southwest National Parks Grand Slam Small Group Adventure. Or, opt for exploring what locals call “Utah’s Mighty Five,” led by an expert guide who can offer special insight into each park’s natural and cultural histories.

Milky Way Galaxy over Arches National Park, Utah.

4. Arches National Park 

Arches National Park is a place of stunning natural beauty that has been offering visitors a unique experience of the night sky as an official International Dark Sky Park since 2019.

As the sun sets, the park transforms into a celestial wonderland, with millions of stars, planets, and galaxies visible to the naked eye. The Milky Way arches across the sky, appearing like a ribbon of light, while shooting stars streak across the darkness.

On a clear night, you can see great stars just about anywhere in the park. But, pro tip: the farther north you drive away from the lights of Moab, the darker the sky will be. Here are a few areas we recommend:

• Balanced Rock Picnic Area
• The Windows Section
• Garden of Eden Viewpoint
• Panorama Point

Finally, in a commitment to preserving the natural darkness of the sky, the park has implemented a number of measures to eliminate light pollution, such as installing motion sensor lights and using low-wattage bulbs in park facilities, earning Arches an IDA Gold-Tier designation.

Want to sit back, relax and enjoy the landscapes and cultural legacies of the Southwest knowing everything (including you!) is taken care of? The Off the Beaten Path Hiking Utah’s Iconic National Parks Small Group Adventure will guide you through some of the most iconic and hidden-gem locations in this rich, compelling region.

Silhouette of person against starry night sky in Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona.

5. Petrified Forest National Park 

Last (but certainly not least), Petrified Forest National Park, located in northeastern Arizona, is a treasure trove of natural beauty. Though Arizona may be known for its sunny days, the landscape really comes alive at night — and, on a clear evening, you can even see Mercury, Mars, Jupiter, and the Andromeda galaxy.

According to the National Parks Service, the ‘Four Corners’ region of the United States has the most IDA Dark Sky Communities in the world. In fact, Arizona alone has 12 Dark Sky Parks, two of which are the Grand Canyon and Petrified Forest National Parks.

To enjoy the park after dark, you can either get a free permit to backpack into the wilderness overnight or acquire a Dark Sky Viewing permit that allows you to stay past park closing hours to stargaze and/or capture the beauty through astrophotography.

Finally, no matter which park you’re visiting, we recommend checking the moon phase before planning your stargazing trip. A full moon can make it especially difficult to see stars and other celestial objects, so plan your visit during a new moon or when the moon is in its early waxing or late waning phases.

An International Dark Sky place is a place where you can connect with the universe and your place in it. It’s a reminder that we are all part of something bigger than ourselves – and that there is beauty in the darkness if we only take the time to look.

About Our Team at Off The Beaten Path

Off the Beaten Path started out in 1986 as a family company planning custom trips to the American West. More than three decades later we’re not so little anymore, and our geography has greatly expanded. But, we’re still planning ever-more exceptional journeys for our growing family of travelers.

With our many years of experience, deep local knowledge, and trusted connections to guides and hosts, your trip will hit the proverbial home run. No other company will offer you better, more personalized travel advice or be more attentive to your needs when it comes to designing your Small Group Adventure or Private Custom Journey.

Ready to start planning your next adventure? Reach out to a Travel Advisor at 800-445-2995 or email us at info@offthebeatenpath.com!

The post 5 International Dark Sky National Parks in the American West first appeared on Off the Beaten Path.

The post 5 International Dark Sky National Parks in the American West appeared first on Off the Beaten Path.