Zion has a semi-arid climate, meaning extremely high day time temps in the summers, cooler nights, and cold winters. Despite the heat, summer is the park’s busiest season. October through March is considered off season and provides a less crowded, more peaceful experience. During all but a select couple of months in the winter (usually sometime Jan – Feb) Zion’s main canyon is closed to most passenger vehicles and a free shuttle system offers alternative transportation.

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Alaska’s allure lies in its wild and untamed spaces. From the majestic peaks of the Alaska Range to the serene beauty of its coastal fjords, the state offers a remote wilderness experience unlike any other. Whether you’re drawn to the dancing lights of the aurora borealis, or the opportunity to explore wide expanses of untouched nature, Alaska promises adventure at every turn.

The best time to visit depends on your desires. For those eager to witness the spectacle of the northern lights, the aurora season runs from August through April, with the darkest and clearest nights providing optimal viewing. However, if hiking and nature exploration are more your speed, the summer months from May through September offer the best weather conditions for outdoor activities. 

Alaska is home to a wealth of attractions that showcase the state’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. Follow along for the best destinations and activities in Alaska.

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The best time to visit Colorado depends on two things: what you would like to do there, and
when the seasons are the most conducive for that activity. In this article we will explore the
highlights of each season and provide you with information on the activities that pull folks from
far and wide to the Centennial State each year.

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Established on September 15, 1928, Bryce Canyon National Park spans 35,835 acres, making it the smallest National Park in Utah. Contrary to its name, Bryce Canyon is not technically a canyon but a series of natural amphitheaters carved into the Paunsaugunt Plateau. Its unique geological formations, known as hoodoos, are sculpted by erosion over millions of years, creating mesmerizing landscapes.

While the park is open year-round, the best time to visit is from May through September. During these months, visitors can enjoy pleasant weather and a plethora of outdoor activities. However, even in the winter months, the park’s snow-covered hoodoos offer a breathtakingly beautiful sight. Travel during this time is more challenging however due to the harsh weather conditions.  

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Known for their sweeping vistas, spectacular sunrises, rocky scrambles, and alpine ponds, the high peaks of the Granite State offer year-round recreation. Summer brings berry-picking, fall offers leaf-peeping, and in winter, snowshoeing is popular. Backpacking routes and day hiking trails abound. For those balancing backcountry experience and frontcountry comfort, rustic huts staffed and maintained by the Appalachian Mountain Club offer a refreshing retreat from the elements. 

Whether you aspire to scramble up one of the 48 peaks over 4,000ft, section hike the most challenging part of the Appalachian Trail, or simply get out for a forest walk, there are endless adventures to be had. Lace up your hiking boots and join us on a rewarding adventure in the White Mountains.  

Below, we’ll share what you need to know to get started hiking in White Mountain National Forest. From how to get there, and what time of year you should visit, to which trails to hike when you do. Beginner-friendly day hikes or more strenuous multi-day options – we’ve got you covered.  

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Seattle, renowned for its vibrant culture and innovative spirit, is not only a bustling city but also a hub for outdoor enthusiasts. Nestled amidst the stunning natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest, Seattle offers unparalleled access to some phenomenal hiking. From lush forests to majestic mountains, there’s a trail for every adventurer just a stone’s throw away from the city center. 

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It’s a bitter cold morning in the depths of the Colorado winter. The sun is just starting to rise behind Hallet Peak as we enter Rocky Mountain National park. The pristine snow reflects light as the breeze lifts snowflakes up to dance in the golden glow. It’s a sight to behold.

As we drive toward our trailhead we see the mountains come to life as the sun comes up. We stop the vehicle for our first animal sighting of the morning, a couple of deer prancing through the trees. We wind up the road and get nearer to the trailhead. This is the point where we all begin to mentally prepare. Snowshoeing is fun, and yet I will admit the first fifteen minutes are often cold (and often a time you often question the life choices that lead you there). 

The car is parked and we all squeal as we get out. We know it will be worth it in the end but no one is going to pretend that it isn’t cold and early out here. We gather the rest of our things strap on the snowshoes. The magical journey begins.

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Before opening to the public as a National Park, the lands within and surrounding Yosemite, and continue to be, the ancestral home of the Ahwahnechee peoples of the Southern Sierra Miwok tribe, as well as the Paiute and Mono tribes. These indigenous peoples had a deep connection with the land, utilizing it for food, medicine, shelter, and spiritual practices.

It is important to recognize this heritage and respect these lands so that both present and future visitors can continue to enjoy it.  

More recently, John Muir, a Scottish born conservationist, was awe-struck by the grandeur of wild Yosemite and successfully motivated the establishment of Yosemite Valley and its surrounding areas as a National Park in 1890. Predating this, President Abraham Lincoln signed the Yosemite Grant of 1864 which protected Yosemite Valley and Mariposa Grove, making it the first time in history that land was set aside for preservation and public use.

Over the years, the park has continued to expand its boundaries and in 1984, it became a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  

Yosemite has continued to be popular year after year, receiving over 3.8 million visitors in 2023, making it the 6th most visited national park in the country. With such high visitation, Yosemite reservations may be needed to enter the park if you plan to go in 2024. 

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In addition to this day’s hiking pack list, hiker’s should leave detailed plans with someone they trust who is not going on the hike. This detailed plan should include the intended route, the potential back-up or alternate route options, contingency plans, entrance and exit times. Having all of this information will aid search and rescue crews if the hiker(s) are not back by the planned times. It is crucial to check back in with this point of contact post hike so that they do not contact the authorities unnecessarily.

History

The concept of the 10 essentials for a day hiking packing list originated in the 1930s with The Mountaineers, a Seattle-based outdoor organization. The Mountaineers published a list of essential items that hikers should carry with them to ensure their safety and preparedness while exploring the wilderness. Over the years, the list has evolved and been refined based on advancements in outdoor gear and technology.

The original list of essentials included items such as a map, compass, sunglasses, extra clothing, headlamp, first aid kit, fire starter, matches, knife, and extra food. These items were deemed essential for hikers to have in case of emergencies or unexpected situations while out on the trails.

As outdoor recreation became more popular and accessible to a wider audience, the concept of the 10 essentials gained traction and became widely adopted by outdoor enthusiasts and organizations around the world. The list serves as a guideline for hikers to ensure they are adequately prepared for any situation that may arise while hiking in the Wilderness.

Today, the 10 essentials for day hiking continue to be a fundamental part of outdoor education and safety practices, emphasizing the importance of being prepared and self-sufficient while enjoying the great outdoors.

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