Arches National Park Travel Guide: Best Things to Do, Hikes & Planning Tips
Planning a trip to Arches National Park? Discover the best hikes, scenic drives, photography spots, and insider tips from a Southwest local.
The Best of the Southwest Starts Here
Explore national parks, scenic drives, hiking trails, and my favorite places across the Southwest. I've done the roaming. Now it's your turn to experience the best of the West.
Start Here: National Parks & Beyond
Not sure where to start? I'd start with Utah's Mighty 5 national parks and The Wave in Arizona. These are some of my favorite places in the Southwest, with firsthand tips to help you plan your own adventure.
Is a National Parks Pass Worth It?
Planning a national park trip? Whether you're a U.S. resident or an international visitor, use my free National Park Pass Savings Calculator to see if an America the Beautiful Pass will save you money.
Shop My Travel Guides + Interactive Maps
I've spent years exploring the Southwest, and these guides bring together my favorite places, firsthand tips, and everything I've learned along the way. Each digital guide includes an interactive map, carefully curated recommendations, and practical planning advice to help you spend less time researching and more time exploring.
Explore the Southwest
Looking for more Southwest inspiration? Browse my free destination guides, road trip itineraries, national park resources, and practical tips for planning your next adventure. Explore the latest posts below, browse by tag, or use the navigation menu to find exactly what you're looking for.
Colorado Fall Bucket List: 15 Epic Things to Do During Fall Colors
There’s more to fall in Colorado than driving around looking at aspens! From scenic train rides and mountain gondolas to apple cider slushies, historic ghost towns, and seeing the Maroon Bells, these are 15 experiences worth adding to your Colorado fall bucket list.
Biidi the Arch: How to Visit the Shell Gas Station Sand Cave Near Page, Arizona
Looking for Biidi the Arch in Page, Arizona? Also known as the Secret Sand Cave behind the Shell gas station, this hidden sandstone formation is worth a stop! Here's how to find it, including my exact hiking route, parking coordinates, and photography tips.
Horseshoe Bend, Arizona: Photography, Parking & Best Time to Visit
Planning a visit to Horseshoe Bend in Page, Arizona? Here's what to know about parking, the overlook trail, entrance fees, photography, and the best time to visit.
Maroon Bells 2027: New Fees, Reservations & Changes
Big changes are coming to Maroon Bells in 2027, including higher entrance fees and new management. Here's what to know about reservations, parking, and shuttle access.
The Wave Arizona: Complete Guide to Permits, Hiking & Photography
I’ve hiked to The Wave four times after 63 failed permit attempts. Here’s what I’ve learned about getting a permit, hiking, navigating, and photographing The Wave in Arizona.
Southern Utah Travel FAQs: National Parks, Itineraries & Planning Tips
Planning a trip to Southern Utah? Get answers to the most common questions about timing, itineraries, national parks, permits, fees, hiking, driving, and everything else you need to know before you go.
San Juan Mountains Fall Colors: Peak Timing + Best Places to Go
Planning a fall trip to the San Juan Mountains? Here's my local guide to when the aspens peak, where to go, the best scenic drives, and my favorite photography spots.
U.S. National Park Fees for International Visitors 2026
New U.S. National Park fees apply to international visitors in 2026. Learn about the $100 nonresident fee, $250 annual pass, affected parks, and when the pass can save you money.
Molas Pass Cabin: Guide to Photographing the Famous Fall Cabin in Colorado's San Juan Mountains
Everything you need to find and photograph the famous Molas Pass Cabin, including where to park, exact photo locations, the best time for fall colors, road conditions, and tips from my own visits.
Maroon Bells No-Show Fee: What to Know for 2026
Visiting Maroon Bells in 2026? A new $10 no-show fee applies to trailhead parking reservations. Here's what to know about the fee, cancellations, and the 48-hour policy.
Best Scenic Drives for Fall Colors in Colorado
Find the best scenic drives for fall colors in Colorado with peak timing, road conditions, vehicle tips, and photos from my favorite drives across the state.