For tens of thousands of years, the San people, commonly known as Bushmen, have lived in the Okavango and throughout the southern reaches of the African continent. The San are members of the indigenous hunter-gatherer cultures of the region and are the oldest people in Africa. Nowhere else on the continent has a group lived in harmony with the land for so long without radically altering or destroying it. The San never domesticated animals or planted crops, finding all they needed through hunting and foraging. Their indigenous way of life centers on total dependence on the region’s natural resources. By using plant and wildlife resources wisely, the San have shown us a model that is guiding conservation in Botswana today. “The Bushmen are our heroes,” said Mpaphi Dikaelo, a safari guide at Meno a Kwena Camp in Makgadikgadi Pans National Park.

“When they dig even a very small plant, they will replant a tree because they know they will need it again in the future. The things we are doing today in Botswana, we have learned from them.”

Botswana employs three unique models for conservation: national parks, game reserves, and private concessions. Each conservation model protects wildlife and offers opportunities for safari-based tourism, but nuances define each model. Game reserves and private concessions are managed under strict environmental standards. While lands in these areas may be leased, capital alone is not sufficient for operating approval. Safari operators must present local communities with detailed, long-term plans for land and wildlife management. Those plans must benefit the environment, wildlife, and local communities. And that’s where the indigenous knowledge of the San people comes into play.

Unlike some neighboring countries that operate a mass-tourism model, Botswana employs a high-value, low-volume model for safari. The model encourages a wilderness experience that benefits animals and visitors alike. While not a hard rule, many concessions and reserves limit wildlife sightings to two or three safari vehicles. Operators often choose to keep vehicle occupancy low. The result is a more intimate experience with that lion, leopard, or elephant. By limiting use, Botswana’s model for safari allows guests to witness animals that aren’t habituated to human observers. That equates to genuine experiences (not to mention photographic opportunities) that capture the true nature of the African bush. It’s almost like a throwback to the safari of a bygone era. You can still cast your eyes across the immensity of the Okavango Delta and see nothing but wildlife and wilderness.

“You become more secluded on safari in Botswana,” OBP guide Lazi Moalosi said. “In other countries where they do mass tourism, instead of guests taking a picture of animals, they end up taking a picture with another vehicle in the background. Botswana is very unique with less people on the safari.”

Beyond the visitor experience, Botswana’s conservation model works with and benefits those who live in and around wildlife habitats. When you visit game reserves and private concessions in Botswana, a percentage of the funds from your safari goes back to support the local communities. Those funds aid educational programs in schools, provide wildlife-friendly fencing around croplands, and send children from area villages on safari to experience the wild places in their own backyards.

Today, modern pressures and restrictions on hunting have greatly reduced the number of San people living in a traditional way in southern Africa, but their influence and indigenous knowledge are providing a guiding light for future generations. Travelers visiting Botswana on an Off the Beaten Path safari have an opportunity to experience the traditional ways of the San people during a bush walk at Meno a Kwena Camp. It’s an experience that offers insight into indigenous knowledge passed down through the generations. Demonstrations include the use of bows for hunting, braiding grasses to make rope, setting traps, traditional song and dance, and using sticks and dried grasses to spark a fire. Learning from their traditions deepens understanding of Botswana’s wilderness. By employing a conservation model grounded in respect for the land and its people, and by following the San’s lead, Botswana is providing the world with a roadmap for sustainable land use and wildlife conservation.

The post Botswana — An Indigenous Model for Conservation first appeared on Off the Beaten Path.

The post Botswana — An Indigenous Model for Conservation appeared first on Off the Beaten Path.

Buenos Aires is the capital city of Argentina. More than a third of the country’s 45 million people call the metropolitan area home, which makes BA the cultural, political, and economic heart of Argentina. Like many others, I came to Argentina years ago to experience the wild beauty of Patagonia. Today, I return to revel in the warm embrace of its people. Off the Beaten Path has shared the magic of Patagonia and the culture of Argentina with travelers for over 20 years.

Well-known the world over as the birthplace of tango, BA is also the home of writer Jorge Louis Borges. Beloved politician, actress, and activist Eva Perón is entombed in the city’s famed Recoleta Cemetery. Buenos Aires launched the career of soccer star and national hero Diego Maradona, whose Boca Juniors fans still pack the streets surrounding La Bombonera stadium on match days.

But BA is much more than its past. The neighborhoods of Retiro, Palermo, and Puerto Madero are filled with the life and culture of this nation. And oh, how they sing out to be explored! Experimental cocktail bars, hip hotels, new-wave Asian restaurants, public gardens, architectural marvels, and art galleries galore dot the tree-lined streets of these neighborhoods. Much like New York City, Buenos Aires is a collection of boroughs, known in BA as barrios, each with its own undeniable appeal. Walking through the neighborhoods of BA, below the balconies and flowering jacaranda trees, is the best way to experience the soul of Argentina. For OBP travelers with a day or two to spend in Buenos Aires, here are my three favorite barrios to explore.

Asado is a national obsession in Argentina and the scent of grilled meats wafts through the barrios of Buenos Aires.

Recoleta

Located in the heart of BA, Recoleta is an upscale section of the city home to many of its politicians and business elite. Along with the adjacent neighborhoods of Retiro and Palermo, Recoleta forms Barrio Norte, a section of the city home to a vast array of cultural attractions. Boutique hotels and restaurants serving classic Argentine fare (think ojo de bife and malbec) make Recoleta a great neighborhood for first-timers to the city.

The Recoleta Cemetery is a must-see. The cemetery surrounds a convent built by Franciscan monks in 1732. In addition to Eva Perón, the cemetery is the final resting place of Nobel Prize winners, military leaders, and former presidents of Argentina. What makes Recoleta Cemetery remarkable is the ornate vaults (4,691 all told) that line its interior. The cemetery’s neo-classical gates, featuring Doric columns, give way to row upon row of above-ground mausoleums. Statues and architectural designs in styles as varied as Neo-Gothic, Art Deco, and Baroque reflect the cemetery’s deep cultural connections.

Blue jacaranda blossoms frame a plaza in Buenos Aires.

If you happen to visit Buenos Aires on a weekend, be sure to visit the Feria de Recoleta. This vast market pops up on Saturday morning, just a short walk from Recoleta Cemetery. Hand-made items, crafts, and goods from skilled artisans across Argentina are on offer. The market is an excellent place for a stroll. Food vendors provide opportunities for a taste of the city as you shop for souvenirs and gifts for family and friends.

Palermo

At more than 17 square kilometers, Palermo is BA’s largest barrio. It is subdivided into several smaller communities. Palermo Viejo is the old section of Palermo. It runs from Santa Fe Avenue south to Córdoba Avenue. This section of BA is graced with historic Spanish architecture and was home to Che Guevara and Jorge Louis Borges.

Within Palermo Viejo are the smaller communities of Palermo Soho and Palermo Hollywood, my favorite sections of Buenos Aires to explore for great food and drink. Palermo Soho is centered around Plaza Serrano, which hosts a fabulous weekend market and unique shops. Radiating out from the plaza are streets with many interesting restaurants. Nikkei cuisine, which is the culinary invention of the Japanese diaspora, is experiencing a renaissance here.

Following World War II, tens of thousands of Japanese citizens immigrated to South America, many settling in Peru and Brazil before venturing further throughout the continent. They brought with them a culinary tradition that included fresh seafood, seasonal vegetables, and rice. In their adopted home, they incorporated spicy chili peppers, quinoa, corn, and a fabulous variety of potatoes. The fusion of flavors represented by Nikkei cuisine is all the rage in South America’s biggest cities, from Santiago to São Paulo, and Buenos Aires is no exception. To experience this sublime mix of flavors and textures, try a causa, tiradito, ceviche, or any dish featuring leche de tigre, a vibrant concoction that combines lime juice and aji chili peppers to perfection.

Cocktail culture is thriving in Palermo.

Following dinner, be sure to explore Palermo’s excellent cocktail bars. Whether you are in the mood for Malbec or an inventive drink crafted by one of the city’s best mixologists, Palermo is the place to be.

La Boca

Located at the mouth of the Matanza River, La Boca is Buenos Aires’ melting pot and the bedrock barrio of porteño culture. The neighborhood attracted thousands of immigrants during the 20^th century, many of European and Asian descent. The barrio is famous today for the colorfully painted homes of the Caminito neighborhood and for La Bombonera, the home stadium of BA’s revered soccer club, the Boca Juniors.

La Boca is alive day and night, 24-7. There always seems to be a party going on somewhere. The sound of music in the streets and the scent of freshly grilled meat permeate the barrio. If you happen to be in Buenos Aires when a soccer match is slated, be prepared. La Boca roars to life when the team faces crosstown rival River Plate.

Tango originated in the working-class neighborhoods near the River Plate, including Buenos Aires and the nearby city of Montevideo, Uruguay. The dance features the influence of waltz, polka, and African rhythms and developed as a means of entertainment and social expression. Tango dancers can be seen in the streets of La Boca and the adjacent barrio of San Telmo with regularity. Individual and group instruction can be arranged in these neighborhoods for those eager to learn this wonderful dance.

The Casa Rosada in the Monserrat neighborhood is the seat of executive power in Argentina.

Off The Beaten Path has regular departures to Patagonia from November through April, with neighborhood tours of Buenos Aires bookending trips.

The post Buenos Aires: A City With Much More Than Tango first appeared on Off the Beaten Path.

The post Buenos Aires: A City With Much More Than Tango 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.

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.

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.

These small towns of the southwest have a few things in common: beautiful desert landscapes, quirky people, paleontological history, and art deserving of national attention.  

1. Fruita, Colorado: As Quirky as It Gets

With an unofficial motto of WTF (Welcome To Fruita) and an annual event having to do with a headless chicken, you can bet that Fruita will greet you with its full quirky self. 

Laid-back, friendly locals, endless single-track trail, and lots of public lands make Fruita an ideal attraction in the southwest. 

Things to do in Fruita 

• Bike or stroll along the Colorado Riverfront Trail. The paved path along the river will take you all the way to Grand Junction, a 10-mile out-and-back.  
• Spend a day at the Colorado National Monument, home to eagles and bighorn sheep. Full of red rock formations, deep canyons, and expansive plateaus, the monument is a mecca for climbers and hikers. 
• If the temperature feels too hot to adventure outdoors, spend an afternoon at the Dinosaur Journey Museum. Fossils and reconstructions of dinosaurs at the interactive museum can entertain both adults and kids for hours. 

Oh, and we can’t forget about the “Mike the Headless Chicken Festival.” 

Mike lives on in spirit as a chicken who escaped death by luck. Because of the way the axe that severed his head missed his jugular vein, he lived without a head for 18 months. A clot prevented Mike from bleeding out, so this way, along with being fed and watered with an eyedropper, Mike lived on in the care of the Fruita family who almost ate him for dinner long ago. 

Fruita commemorates Mike every year with a festival involving music, food trucks, a 5K run, and a car show if you happen to visit Fruita around the beginning of June. 

This southern Colorado town is also located close to Capitol Reef National Park, which ranks on our list of must-see southwest parks. 

2. Marfa Texas: Art Appreciation in the Middle of Nowhere  

Marfa may seem like an unusual place to be an art destination, and that’s what makes it uniquely Marfa.

In the 1970s artist Donald Judd moved to Marfa and forever changed the small Texas town with his minimalist art. Blue, open skies inspired his work and led to Marfa’s popularity as an international destination for artists and their appreciators.  

There’s plenty to see and do in the town itself and nearby wilderness areas. 

Things to do in Marfa:

• The one-of-a-kind Texas town sits north of Big Bend National Park. In fact, one of Off the Beaten Path’s longest-run group trips takes place at this International Dark Sky Reserve. Titled “Big Secret, Big Bend”, this OBP Small Group Adventure focuses on the cultural and natural history of the area. 

Whether it’s coming across a unique range of wildlife, like black bears, javelinas, and road runners, or star gazing, you can get a much-needed nature dose at one of the country’s least visited national parks before or after visiting Marfa. 

• Wander from gallery to gallery to see contemporary sculptures, paintings, and historical artifacts dotted throughout the town. You can check out some of Donald Judd’s work at the Judd or the Chinati foundations. 
• Similar to Fruita’s festival, Marfa’s Lights Festival has to do with unexplainable occurrences in the night sky—several stories stretching back to the 1800s reference unexplained sources of light in the sky southeast of town. 

To this day, all sorts of Marfa residents have reported “mystery lights” in various colors that appear out of nowhere from an uninhabited area southeast of town. Now, residents honor these unexplainable lights with music, food, and a parade every September. 

As Marfa’s homepage points out, “Art in Marfa won’t tell you what to think, but it might get you thinking.”

And that, we think, is a great prompt to keep in mind while exploring this unique town of the southwest. 

3. Taos, New Mexico: Native History and Architecture Under a Blue Sky 

It is said that many of those who visit Taos come back time and time again, or end up moving to the high desert town in New Mexico. It seems to attract free spirits, artists and outdoor enthusiasts who come for the arts and to soak up the incredible desert landscape. 

The quaint town offers ample opportunities to appreciate art, such as the Harwood Museum of Art and the Taos Art Museum, which display the area’s distinct architecture and cultural heritage. 

Wondering what else to do in this unique town of the southwest? Read on. 

Things to do in Taos: 

• Taos Pueblo, a dwelling made up of individual homes with common walls, has been continuously inhabited for thousands of years. Now there are windows and doors, but in the past the only access was through the top by way of a ladder, similar to the dwellings you would see at Mesa Verde. The World Heritage Site and National Historic Landmark sits just a few miles north of Taos. 
• Hike into some natural hot springs. Black Rock Hot Springs sits along the Rio Grande not too far from town. A short hike takes you down to the river and makes up just one of the dozens of hot springs you can hike into. 
• Check out the view from the fifth-highest bridge in the U.S. by stopping at the Rio Grande Gorge bridge. A short drive from Taos Pueblo, you can park at the west side of the bridge and take the trail following the rim of the canyon. 

If you want to spend a good chunk of time exploring other parts of the southwest, join our Puebloan Mystery Small Group Adventure. It combines the fascinating and mysterious culture of the Ancestral Puebloans, hiking, viewing of natural wonders and some exploration of other historic places. You can easily tack on a trip to Taos before or after the trip by planning a custom journey with OBP. 

4. Sedona, AZ: A Center of Spiritual Forces  

If you’re all about wellness and spiritual forces unseen, you’ve probably heard about Sedona.  

Located only a two-hour’s drive south of the Grand Canyon, Sedona sets itself apart as one of the most unique towns in Arizona and the Southwest in general. the town of Sedona blends in with the stunning red rock and high desert environment surrounding it.

All you have to do is tune into the natural environm

ent and see what you discover, whether or not it has to do 

with anything spiritual. 

Things to do in Sedona: 

• Explore one of the most well-known energy vortexes in the world. Whether you seek out spiritual transformations or think these centers of energy are a bunch of malarkey, there is something undeniably special about the natural environment of Sedona. 

The vortexes are located at 4 different locations: Airport Mesa, Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, and Boynton Canyon. They all happen to be located in places with stunning views, so even if you don’t feel a shift in energy, it’s worth a visit. Anyone can access them with GPS, just be respectful of people doing yoga or meditating.  

• Hike or bike some of the area’s 400 miles of trails, like Devil’s Bridge. The 4-mile out-and-back takes you to a spectacular red rock bridge suspended high above the valley floor and makes for impressive photos. 
• Do as the Sedonans do and see a psychic for spiritual guidance or insight. The “Visit Sedona” website has an entire directory of spiritual coaches, readings, and other clairvoyants. 

Whether you’re enticed by Sedona for its alternative healing and spiritual practices, or for the plethora of spas and peaceful accommodations, the town won’t disappoint. 

If you’re considering how to best experience Sedona, a New Year’s adventure with Off the Beaten Path keeps you away from the crowded places of Sedona and the Grand Canyon. You’ll get to witness the starry winter night up close with an astronomer and a powerful telescope, among other highlights to ring in the New Year.

5. Joshua Tree: Keeping It Quirky Indoors and Out

The energy of the town of Joshua Tree seems to mirror the bizarre and arresting landscape surrounding it. 

UFO conventions, a reported alien base hidden beneath the desert, and the structure count as some of the interesting attractions in the southwest. 

Synonymous with the national park just outside of the town, Joshua Tree attracts artists, adventurers, and those who embrace living and creating on the outskirts of society. Maybe it’s the desert in general, or maybe it’s the area’s funky flora that inspires such a community. Either way, you’re bound to find something interesting here. 

So, bring an open mind, and definitely don’t forget to bring water with you, even if your biggest adventure involves walking between sculptures. 

Things to do in Joshua Tree: 

• Peruse the vintage and second-hand boutiques reminiscent of the ‘60s and ‘70s culture with flowery blouses and flared corduroy pants. There’s a handful of them dotting the main strip.  
• Visit the Noah Purifoy Desert Museum for free. The outdoor museum includes an interesting collection of found objects in a setting that encourages contemplation. Over a hundred sculptures stand out in the sparse landscape, such as toilet seats and defunct television sets. 
• Find a real oasis in Joshua Tree National Park. Think that these magical places only exist in exotic locales like Morocco or Saudi Arabia? Not so. With a 3-mile hike roundtrip, you can see palm trees and a water refuge for animals like bighorn sheep, quail, and coyotes. Start at the 49 Palms Oasis Trailhead. 

The town prides itself on ‘keeping it local’ and apparently it looks much the same as it did in the ’60s. No high rises here! 

Off the Beaten Path’s Joshua Tree and Death Valley Small Group Adventure takes you through two of the most unique national parks in the southwest. Some of the perks include a naturalist guide who will give insight into the wild landscape, as well as unique accommodations in Palm Springs and the town of Twentynine Palms. 

6. St. George UT: Where Red Rock Canyons, the Arts, and Mormon Influence Collide 

St. George used to be the winter home of Brigham Young, the second president of the Mormon church. This led to a strong Mormon influence on the town that remains today. 

The town has recently attracted more outside influence with its low cost of living and mild climate. This makes for an interesting mix of Mormon temples, art sculptures, and galleries spread throughout town.

St. George’s various cultural influences make it one of the most unique places to visit in Utah. 

Things to do in St. George: 

• Take in the art all around town thanks to Art Around the Corner, a collection of sculptures placed throughout the city you can appreciate on foot. Or visit Kayenta Art Village where you can see plays, concerts, and movies throughout the year at this center for artists to display their work. There’s even a spa where you can unwind after a day of hiking in nearby Rock Park or Hell Hole Canyon. 
• Use it as a base to check out with fewer crowds. Since most people visiting those attractions stay in the tiny town of Springdale just outside of Zion, you’ll keep your distance from the crowds while being able to explore similar red rock canyons just outside of St. George. 
• See dinosaur footprints up close. The George Dinosaur Discovery Site gets credit as the oldest Jurassic dinosaur site in Utah. Besides the main attraction of dinosaur footprints, there’s life-size replicas of the prehistoric animals and a working fossil lab. 

If you’ve been dreaming about exploring the wonders of Utah’s Canyon Country, consider going off the beaten path. Our Utah’s Mighty Five tour explores five different national parks with scenic drives, lots of hiking, and opportunities to take in the views in peace. 

Dinosaur fossils, a heavy art influence, interesting townsfolk, and natural wonders make these six quirky towns of the southwest a destination on their own. Check out how to combine quality time touring one or potentially many of these towns with a Desert Southwest adventure. 

The post 6 Quirky Towns of the Southwest You Will Want to Visit first appeared on Off the Beaten Path.

The post 6 Quirky Towns of the Southwest You Will Want to Visit appeared first on Off the Beaten Path.

Though we arrived at night, we were greeted with the buzz of the town, accompanied by the silhouette of the looming Mt. San Jacinto that hugs the city. My mother, father, sister, and I gathered and ordered cocktails at the top of the hotel where we would be staying for the entirety of our trip, the Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs.

We discussed plans, and shared our excitement for the days to come. While my sister (22) and I (24) find ourselves in a transition period between finishing school and figuring out what we will do with our lives, we always have, and will continue to enjoy the family trips we are fortunate enough to take together. This is the time, now more than ever, as we find ourselves in different parts of the country.

The palms of Palm Springs

Day One

Sunscreen applied and shoes tied, we made our way down the Palm Canyon trail, which is one of several different trails in the area. We were promptly out of the desert and in a lush oasis filled with California fan palms, an eclectic smattering of bird species, and though we didn’t spot any, bighorn sheep.

We followed the Victor Trail along a ridge dotted with barrel cacti, prickly pear cacti, and the occasional remnants of coyote scat. This trail provided fantastic views of the oasis below, and Mt. San Jacinto in the background.

Our next stop was Andreas Canyon, where we embarked on a short loop hike through the canyon. The gentle trickle of Andreas Creek could be heard along the path and runs year-round through the canyon.

After a day of wandering through the area surrounding Palm Springs and discovering the intricacies the desert had to offer, in proper Hert family fashion, we couldn’t pass up the opportunity to visit at least ONE National Park. We were ready to make our way to Joshua Tree National Park the next day to discover more.

The author under a Joshua Tree

Day Two

The West Entrance to Joshua Tree National Park showcases a dynamic shift in rock formations and provides an introduction to the Joshua tree itself, as the largest species of Yucca (Yucca brevifolia) begins to dominate the landscape. The distinctive trees begin to arrange themselves in a vast and spread-out forest of vegetation exclusive to the Mojave Desert.

After pulling off to marvel at the largest Yucca plant in the world, we parked at the Hidden Valley Trailhead. This short loop hike snakes through a gap in the large rock features and opens up into Hidden Valley. The area delivers a display of Joshua trees and a 360-degree view of quartzite rock secluding the small valley.

Just a few minutes down the road is the trailhead to the Barker Dam Trail. This 1.1-mile loop trail takes you through the alluring desert to its halfway point at Barker Dam. Built by area cattlemen in 1900, with an addition made by William F. Keys in 1949, this dam is still able to hold water in season. Farther down the trail, you can see both petroglyphs and pictographs etched and painted on the rock.

We then made our way to Skull Rock, a highly visited landmark in the park. Between the herds of people taking selfies and family photos, you can catch a glimpse of this fascinating anthropomorphic rock formation.

After our staring contest with Skull Rock, we made our way down the Discovery Trail and Face Rock Trail across the road. This trail features interesting rock formations which make for enjoyable, family-friendly scrambles to get a good view of the area. Branching off from the Discovery Trail, the Face Rock trail reveals (at least to the abstract mind) a varied collection of faces. We returned to our car and drove to Cholla Garden.

The most striking species of cholla cactus found in Joshua Tree is known as “Teddy-Bear Cholla,” but despite its namesake, is best not to be cuddled. We specifically chose the end of the day to visit Cholla Cactus Garden because as the sun begins to lower, the light will shine through the off-white needles and create a halo-effect around the fuzzy cacti. Though cholla can be found throughout the park, this specific area has an extremely high density of cacti and makes for a unique view.

We wrapped up our day’s adventure at the Joshua Tree Saloon, a quirky, old-west style bar and grill. The lively bar and grill were the perfect end to our day, and we arrived back at the Rowan Kimpton happy and satisfied.

Cruising the streets

Day Three

After breakfast at Farm, a five-minute jaunt away from our hotel, we made our way to the Palm Springs Art Museum to admire myriad art forms, from glass sculptures and Native American pieces to Modern Mexican and hyperrealistic art pieces.

The rest of our day was spent on Cruiser bike seats in the pleasantly warm streets of Palm Springs, viewing mid-century modern architecture. While the bike routes for viewing these homes are seemingly endless, we decided to hug the mountains and snake through the Vista Las Palmas and Old Las Palmas neighborhoods. Each house we passed drew us in with unique landscaping, color palette, and structural design.

After the “ooh’s” and “aah’s” had settled, we coasted over to The Movie Colony, known for the Hollywood stars who congregated in the area. The Movie Colony is the perfect neighborhood for any movie buff to tour the old homes of celebrities, past and present.

After a long day, we took a short walk over to Tac/Quila, one of our favorite meals of the trip. After an exceptional dinner and a unique Tequila cocktail, we were looking forward to our final day.

Skull Rock

Day Four

We began our final day near our hotel at Grand Central, a pleasant restaurant featuring both sweet and savory options. After breakfast, we were ready for the day’s destination—the Coachella Valley Nature Preserve, a sandy oasis close to Palm Springs, home to rare wildlife and vegetation. 

It was much to our chagrin when we realized the nature preserve happened to be closed that day. I remembered my seat-mate on the plane mentioned a mountain town called “Idyllwild,”— an old mountain town known for its rich history and large granite formations.

The drive to Idyllwild was long but beautiful. Once there, if you pass the tourist trap shops in the center of Idyllwild, you can find quirky boutiques and wineries with friendly locals. Though we didn’t have time, there are ample outdoor activities to enjoy, including The Idyllwild Nature Center and popular hikes and climbs that lead to prominent features—like Taquitz (or Lily) Rock, Taquitz Peak, and Suicide Rock—that make Idyllwild so special.

When leaving Idyllwild, we decided to take a different route back to Palm Springs, and we were happy we did! The Banning-Idyllwild Panoramic Highway passes mountain meadows and ranch land before reaching the desert views we had become accustomed to throughout our trip.

We had our final dinner at 533 Viet Fusion and journeyed back to our hotel, already reminiscing on our time together and celebrating our long run of fun family vacations. 

Travel Outside the Box

Before embarking on what would be a fantastic desert adventure, I found Palm Springs to be an unusual destination for our typical family trips. I had designed a template in my mind of what constituted an adventure, and Palm Springs fell outside the confines of what that meant to me.

Happily, I was proven incorrect. As my sister and I grow up and inevitably grow geographically distant, it becomes more important to us to have these family trips to really connect, and Palm Springs was the perfect area to do that. With help from locals, my mother, and the friendly folks at Off the Beaten Path to give us some information about the area, we had an excellent trip that greatly exceeded my expectations. 

The post Family Vacation 2.0 first appeared on Off the Beaten Path.

The post Family Vacation 2.0 appeared first on Off the Beaten Path.

That’s why we’ve put together three itineraries for trips through these national parks. Each focuses on different highlights of this wild landscape, but all three are equally spectacular. Choose one of these trips and witness the awe of the Greater Yellowstone region for yourself.

Jackson Lake

Option 1: On the Water: Float, Cruise, and Paddle

Jackson – Grand Teton National Park – Yellowstone National Park – Gardiner – Bozeman

The Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem is home to vital headwaters that flow down either side of the Continental Divide. With lots of winter snowpack and glacier-carved features, this landscape is full of pristine rivers and jewel-like lakes.

This water-focused trip takes you down the region’s famous rivers and across its scenic lakes, all while surrounded by dramatic mountain peaks.

Day 1: 

Fly into Jackson, Wyoming. Stay in town (we love Alpine House Lodge near the Jackson Town Square) or at one of the lodges inside Grand Teton National Park.

Day 2: 

On your first full day, explore breathtaking Jenny Lake in Grand Teton National Park. Take a boat trip across the deep blue lake, then take a short hike from the boat dock to Hidden Falls or beyond to Inspiration Point. Pack a picnic lunch and eat it trailside before catching the boat back across the lake.

In the afternoon, visit nearby String Lake. Depending on your energy level, you could hike the 4-mile trail around the lake or the 7-mile roundtrip trail to Leigh Lake, swim, or relax on shore. Then head to Moose to grab dinner at Dornan’s, a local favorite that serves up pizza, pasta, and a five-star mountain view.

Day 3: 

Take a tranquil morning float down the Snake River through Grand Teton National Park. Scan the banks for beavers, moose, and bears. At lunchtime, take a leisurely stroll around Schwabacher Landing. Bring a picnic and gaze across the Snake River to the mountain peaks.

In the afternoon, rent a canoe at Colter Bay and paddle along the shoreline or a little further to Heron Pond, with unobstructed views of the Tetons across Jackson Lake.

Day 4:

Leave bright and early to head north to Yellowstone National Park. Embark on a guided kayaking tour past geothermal features on Yellowstone Lake. When you’re through, stop at West Thumb Geyser Basin on your way to your accommodations the park at Lake Yellowstone Hotel or Canyon Lodge. 

Day 5: 

Make the drive north to Gardiner, stopping for a hike along the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone on your way. Catch a glimpse of the Lower Falls, where water plunges 300 feet into the canyon below. In Gardiner, catch a thrill with a whitewater rafting trip down the Yellowstone River. Spend tonight in the town of Gardiner or a bit further north in the aptly-named Paradise Valley.

Day 6: 

End your trip with a scenic drive through Paradise Valley and over Bozeman Pass to Bozeman, Montana where you can stroll Main Street before catching a flight home.

Option 2: Wildlife of Yellowstone and Grand Teton

Billings – Cooke City – Yellowstone National Park – Grand Teton National Park – Jackson

One of the most impressive features of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem is the wildlife that calls this area home. Both Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks are home to healthy populations of some of the continent’s most charismatic wildlife. Moose, elk, black and grizzly bears, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, and bison are just a handful of the animals that you might be lucky to see.

This wildlife-centric trip provides a great opportunity for seeing some of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem’s most captivating species.

Day 1: 

Fly into Billings, Montana, then make your way to Yellowstone’s northeast entrance. The drive over Beartooth Pass is one of the most epic drives in the country, so take your time getting to Cooke City. Check into your Cooke City hotel and catch some Z’s for an early day tomorrow.

Day 2: 

Stop at the Bearclaw Bakery for an early pastry and coffee before driving into Yellowstone National Park. Your first destination is Lamar Valley, known by many as the Serengeti of North America. The wide, sweeping valley is a wildlife hotspot, home to elk, bison, bears, and wolves. Spend the morning alongside other wildlife watchers trying to spot these amazing animals. 

In the afternoon, drive through Tower Junction (looking for wildlife on your way) to Mammoth Hot Springs. Take a hike on wooden boardwalks around the travertine terraces before taking the scenic drive back through the Lamar Valley to Cooke City – with more potential for wildlife sightings. 

Day 3: 

Sleep in or enjoy another early morning in Lamar Valley. Pick up a picnic lunch to take with you, then head south to the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, where you can hike along the canyon rim and catch stunning views of the Lower Falls. Continue south to the wildlife-rich Hayden Valley. Make your way toward the park’s south entrance along the shores of Yellowstone Lake, stopping at boardwalks and roadside features along the way. Tonight’s destination is Grand Teton National Park, where you can stay at Jackson Lake Lodge for fantastic wildlife viewing opportunities.

Day 4: 

Take a self-guided tour of Grand Teton National Park today. Look for wildlife at Oxbow Bend, Schwabacher Landing, beside the Gros Ventre River, and along the Moose-Wilson Road. Take a hike up one of the canyons — Death, Cascade, or Paintbrush — for gorgeous scenery and more chances to see wildlife.

Day 5. 

Take a sunrise wildlife tour through Grand Teton National Park. Learn about the animals that live in the valley from a local naturalist, and add to your running list of wildlife sightings. 

In the afternoon, head to the National Museum of Wildlife Art to peruse a stunning, world-class collection of nature-inspired artwork. Enjoy dinner and your last night in Jackson, a lively, iconic western town.

Day 6: 

Head to the Jackson Hole Airport for flights home.

Mudpots and Mountains: Hiking and Sightseeing in Yellowstone Country

Bozeman – West Yellowstone – Yellowstone National Park – Grand Teton National Park – Jackson

Geologists would have a hard time finding a place more interesting than the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Mountains, volcanoes, geysers, and earthquakes are part of what make the area so unique. And guess what? You don’t even have to be a geologist to appreciate it!

This hiking-heavy trip gives you an up-close look at the unique geology of this region.

Day 1: 

Fly into Bozeman, Montana, and make your way toward the gateway town of West Yellowstone for your first night. On your way, stop at Quake Lake and the Quake Lake Visitor Center to learn about how an earthquake caused a massive landslide that dammed the Madison Riverin 1959. 

Day 2: 

Head into Yellowstone National Park and kick off your day with a hike near Madison Junction. A short walk to Harlequin Lake or 3-mile climb on the Purple Mountain Trail are both great options, depending on your energy level. Afterward, make your way down the west side of the park, stopping at the Lower and Midway Geyser Basins along the way. Make sure make time for Grand Prismatic Hot Spring, the largest in the park. 

Choose another hike for the afternoon — maybe Fairy Falls or Lone Star Geyser — before settling into your accommodations at Old Faithful. After dinner, head outside to watch Old Faithful erupt. 

Day 3: 

Hike the boardwalks and trails in the Upper Geyser Basin. There’s a lot more to see than just Old Faithful! Next, stop at West Thumb Geyser Basin, then make your way south into Grand Teton National Park. Stay in the heart of the park at one of the fabulous lodges.

Day 4: 

Spend the day on Grand Teton’s world-class trails. While this park isn’t as thermally active as Yellowstone, the young (geologically speaking!) Teton Range sits on an active fault line. The tectonic activity here has led to the formation of some of the most dramatic mountains on the continent. Hike to one of the park’s glacial lakes, like Phelps, Taggart, or Bradley, or up one of the glacier-carved canyons, like Death, Cascade, or Paintbrush, where you’ll find some of the park’s high mountain lakes. 

Day 5: 

Spend your last full day catching some of the park’s best views. Drive (or hike) five miles up Signal Mountain for sweeping views of the valley, mountains, and lakes. Then rent a canoe on Jackson Lake to see the mountains from a new perspective. End your trip with dinner at Dornan’s before spending the night in a Jackson hotel.

Day 6: 

Catch a flight home from the Jackson Hole Airport.

Plan The Perfect Trip

Ready to head to Yellowstone and Grand Teton country, 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 3 Incredible Itineraries for Visiting Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks first appeared on Off the Beaten Path.

The post 3 Incredible Itineraries for Visiting Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks appeared first on Off the Beaten Path.

Extreme beauty and extreme conditions make Yellowstone National Park a winter wonderland like you’ve never seen before. 

Active days in the powdery snow give you a chance to see Yellowstone’s highlights: geysers, hot springs, waterfalls, and wildlife. Spectacular days give way to cozy evenings around the lodge fireplace, where friends and family exchange tales of the day’s adventures. A visit to Yellowstone this time of year gives you a true taste of winter. 

And while the snowy season lasts almost half the year, the holidays have to be the best time to visit Yellowstone in the winter. The festivities begin soon after the park settles in for the long, dreamy winter, and there’s nothing merrier than holidays in a real-life snow globe. If you’re one of the lucky few who visit during this magical time, you’re in for a real treat.

So pack your warmest clothes (and an “ugly sweater,” of course) and head to Yellowstone for a holiday trip you’ll never forget!

Why the Winter Holidays Are a Perfect Time to Visit Yellowstone 

There’s a lot that makes the winter holiday season a fantastic time to visit Yellowstone. Everything seems to put on a show, from the snow flurries to the wildlife to the steaming geysers..

In Yellowstone’s thermal basins, the vibrant hues of turquoise, green, and orange stand out against the snow-covered ground. Geysers erupt in an even more dramatic fashion, as hot water dances through the frigid air, pitching white against blue. Wildlife wanders to the park’s steamy hot spots,  seeking the warmest corners of this snowy wilderness. 

Speaking of wildlife, winter is a wonderful time to see animals in Yellowstone. Wildlife come down into the valleys to avoid the deeper snowpack at higher elevations. They stand out against the bright white snow, making them easier to spot. The park’s wolf population, supremely adept at hunting in winter, is especially active. Bison, covered in sparkly frost and lumbering single-file through thick layers of snow, are a treat to see.

While nature’s show is special enough, the celebrations don’t end there. Just because you’re spending the holidays in the middle of a wild and natural landscape doesn’t mean you have to forgo your favorite holiday traditions. Spending the holidays in Yellowstone is as festive as it gets, with celebratory dinners, decorations, and carols. 

Did we mention that winter is the best time to visit for an off-the-beaten-path experience? Only a tiny fraction of Yellowstone’s visitors come in winter, meaning you won’t have to navigate crowds. (And you just might make fast friends with other like-minded winter season travelers.)

What to Expect When Traveling to Yellowstone in the Winter 

Even if you’ve traveled to Yellowstone during other seasons, winter takes on a whole new look in this vast, wild park. 

Yellowstone’s winter temperatures range from 0 – 30℉ during the day, but activities like skiing and snowshoeing keep you warm. Plus, roaring fireplaces are a staple of Yellowstone lodges in winter. 

On average, 150 inches of snow fall each year in Yellowstone — too much for the plows to keep up with! Most roads are only open to over-snow vehicles, requiring a little strategy when it comes to travel through the park.

For the most part, you need to board a snowcoach or snowmobile to get around. Snowcoaches, multi-passenger vehicles set on extra-large tires or tracks, are a fun and scenic way to travel, taking you over the snow on park roads, with an expert, knowledgeable driver at the helm. This is by far the warmest, and one of the most efficient, ways to get around the park in the winter.

Finally, most of Yellowstone’s array of lodging— campgrounds, hotels, and cabins — shut down for the season. While your accommodations options are more limited, it also means a more intimate and quiet experience. Old Faithful Snow Lodge and Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel and Cabins are the only park lodges open during the winter. 

Winter Activities in Yellowstone National Park

Winter in Yellowstone is unique in more ways than just thinner crowds and gorgeous scenery. In addition to Yellowstone’s famous attractions, which are just as impressive in winter – in some cases more impressive – here , this snowy season offers even more that’s unique to this time of year. are some activities you can enjoy during a winter visit to Yellowstone: 

• Snowshoeing: The park maintains miles of groomed ski and snowshoe trails near Canyon, Mammoth, Old Faithful, and other popular areas. Snowshoes help you hike over deep powdery snow without sinking up to your knees. Snowshoeing under snow-covered pines past steaming hot springs and hissing geysers is an experience you’ll only find in Yellowstone.
• Cross-country skiing: Yellowstone’s scenery and terrain make for excellent cross-country skiing. This winter activity takes a little practice, but once you get the hang of it, it’s a fun, adventurous way to travel through Yellowstone. The park offers gear rentals and lessons, so you don’t have to figure it out on your own.
• Wildlife watching: Yellowstone’s winter attracts the most devout wildlife watchers, and you can find them before dawn in the Lamar Valley. This is one of the best times of year — and places in the world — to see wolves in the wild. Come to Lamar Valley at sunrise and join the enthusiastic wolf watchers listening and looking for signs of this elusive animal.
• Exploring thermal basins: You can see geothermal features in summer, too, but there’s something special about winter’s contrast — the white snow and colorful pools, the frozen ground and boiling water. Plus, touring these mostly empty boardwalks makes this winter experience feel even more wild.

Celebrating Holiday Traditions in Yellowstone National Park

Nature’s breathtaking winter show makes it easy to forget thoughts of holiday traditions and indoor activities. But a holiday in Yellowstone isn’t just about the winter wonderland outside. 

Near Officers’ Row at Mammoth Hot Springs, a large, lit evergreen tree dazzles visitors with holiday warmth. Candlelight services on Christmas Eve are a longstanding park tradition. Everyone is welcome to these gatherings at Mammoth Chapel. 

At Mammoth Hotel and Old Faithful Snow Lodge, you can find a scrumptious holiday feast with all of the fixings. After a big holiday meal, sing carols by the crackling fire and celebrate with family and new friends.

Ring in the New Year like never before, and participate in one of the most celebrated annual events in Yellowstone. After midnight at Old Faithful, head outside under the twinkling night sky to see the famous geyser’s first eruption of the year. There’s nothing like witnessing this spectacle of nature to kick off the New Year. 

Holidays can be a stressful time, but they don’t have to be. Celebrating in Yellowstone National Park allows you to relax and enjoy old traditions and new adventures —in one of the most incredible places on earth. 

Ready to Book Your Winter Holidays in Yellowstone?

Is a holiday in Yellowstone calling your name? With winter magic in the air, spending the holidays in Yellowstone is a sure way to create lasting memories. 

While you can DIY a holiday trip to Yellowstone, there are a lot of logistics to manage when traveling during the winter months. With limited park access, a short visitor season (mid-December through early-March) tours to coordinate, and snowy, unpredictable weather, you’ll save both time and energy by working with a travel company.

At Off the Beaten Path, we can help you plan the perfect winter holiday in Yellowstone. With both Custom Journeys and Small Group Adventures like Yellowstone New Year and Yellowstone’s Winter Magic, you can leave the planning to us and relax into a winter holiday with family and friends. 

The post Yellowstone’s Holiday Magic: How to Celebrate the Season in This Winter Wonderland first appeared on Off the Beaten Path.

The post Yellowstone’s Holiday Magic: How to Celebrate the Season in This Winter Wonderland appeared first on Off the Beaten Path.