Outdoor Adventures
Chasing Waterfalls at Triple Falls in Western North Carolina
Triple Falls North Carolina Hike for Adventure
Triple Falls is one of the signature stops in Dupont State Recreational Forest, and it rewards anyone willing to put a little effort into the climb. In fact, this waterfall-rich park is one of the top things to do in Western North Carolina. From Saluda, Triple Falls is an easy day trip that pairs well with small-town time on Main Street, then a focused outing in the woods where the sound of rushing water does the talking. If you are planning an adventure getaway in the mountains, Triple Falls North Carolina belongs at the top of your list.
Most visitors begin at the High Falls Access Area, where the Triple Falls Trail leads into a hardwood forest and gradually gains elevation. Routes vary, but the walk to the viewing area is typically a little over a mile round trip, and the final approach includes stairs to an overlook. Once you reach the falls, you will see why Triple Falls NC is so frequently photographed. The water drops in three tiers across a broad rock face, and the viewpoints give you options for different angles and compositions. Bring a snack, take your time, and plan to linger.
Because Triple Falls sits within a network of well-known cascades, it is easy to build a fuller day of waterfalls in North Carolina without adding extra driving. High Falls is close by and makes a natural pairing, with a wider trail and a powerful span of water across the Little River. Hooker Falls is one of the most accessible stops in Dupont forest, with a short, mostly flat walk and calmer sections where swimming and wading are allowed.
A Boutique Hotel Near Dupont State Recreational Forest
After a day on the trails, return to Saluda for a comfortable base that supports both activity and recovery. When you stay at our boutique hotel in Western North Carolina, you can choose from well-appointed rooms, spacious suites, and private cottages, with gas fireplaces in every suite and cottage. Many accommodations also include jetted tubs, which are a welcome addition after hiking in North Carolina. On-site amenities like a spa and sauna make it easy to reset before dinner.
If you want to extend the adventure, consider adding Bridal Veil Falls, Grassy Creek Falls, or Wintergreen Falls to your plan, depending on your time and hiking comfort. With Triple Falls Trail as the centerpiece and additional Asheville hikes within reach, Saluda keeps your itinerary flexible, focused, and satisfying.
Check Out a Bison Range Near Missoula, MT
Best Bison Range in Montana for Summer Wildlife Viewing
A visit to the Bison Range in Montana offers one of the most rewarding wildlife experiences in western Montana. Located in Charlo on the Flathead Indian Reservation, this remarkable conservation area gives visitors the opportunity to observe Montana bison and other native wildlife across thousands of acres of protected grasslands and mountain scenery. Just an hour from Missoula, the National Bison Range is an ideal destination for a unique summer mountain getaway.
Covering more than 18,000 acres, the Bison Range is home to approximately 350 bison, along with elk, deer, pronghorn, coyotes, black bears, hawks, and eagles. The area was originally established in 1908 and remains an important conservation site managed by the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes. Visitors can experience both the natural beauty and cultural significance of this landscape while learning about the ongoing stewardship efforts that help preserve it.
The most popular way to explore the bison park is by taking the scenic driving routes. Red Sleep Drive and Prairie Drive combine to create a 19-mile wildlife viewing experience featuring rolling hills, mountain vistas, and excellent opportunities to spot bison near Missoula. During the summer season, visitors can also enjoy walking trails and panoramic overlooks throughout the route. Early morning and evening visits often provide some of the best wildlife viewing conditions.
Stay Near the National Bison Range
After spending the day exploring the National Bison Range, return to Blue Mountain Bed and Breakfast in Missoula for a comfortable and relaxing stay. Located just outside Missoula, our property offers convenient access to many of western Montana’s most popular attractions while providing a peaceful mountain setting.
Guests enjoy well-appointed accommodations with private bathrooms, comfortable furnishings, and beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. Each morning begins with a freshly prepared breakfast featuring homemade specialties and locally inspired ingredients. Favorites may include huckleberry Dutch Babies, Eggs Benedict, or hearty steak and eggs.
Visitors looking to extend their adventure can also explore the nearby Garden of One Thousand Buddhas in Arlee, located just a short drive from the Bison Range. Whether you are planning a summer wildlife tour, a scenic road trip to Glacier National Park, or a unique Montana getaway, Blue Mountain Bed and Breakfast provides the perfect home base for enjoying all the best things to do in Missoula. Book your stay today and experience some of the best wildlife viewing in Montana.
Coffee Mill Ski Area for the Best Winter Getaway in Minnesota
Best Coffee Mill Ski Area Winter Getaway in Minnesota
Winter in Minnesota is the perfect season for outdoor adventure, scenic drives, and cozy escapes, and Coffee Mill Ski Area is a favorite destination for travelers looking to enjoy classic Midwest skiing without the crowds. Located in Wabasha, this approachable ski area offers beautiful surroundings and reliable conditions, making it a great choice for both casual skiers and those planning a full winter getaway.
Coffee Mill Ski Area features groomed runs, scenic views of the Mississippi River Valley, and terrain that welcomes beginners while still appealing to experienced skiers. Its bowl-style layout helps protect slopes from winter winds, allowing for comfortable days on the mountain. Many visitors enjoy pairing a ski day with other things to do in Wabasha, MN.
Beyond skiing, Wabasha offers memorable winter experiences. Visitors can explore historic Main Street, attend seasonal events like the Grumpy Old Men Festival, or visit the National Eagle Center, one of the top attractions along the Mississippi River. Ice fishing on Lake Pepin and winter wildlife viewing are also popular when conditions allow.
Relax and Recharge at a Red Wing Bed and Breakfast
Staying nearby enhances the experience, and a Red Wing Bed and Breakfast offers a peaceful alternative to crowded ski resorts. Located about 30 minutes from Coffee Mill Ski Resort, Round Barn Farm provides a comfortable home base for winter in Minnesota, especially for couples, solo travelers, and friends planning a seasonal escape.
After a day on the slopes, guests appreciate returning to warm common spaces, quiet evenings, and thoughtful amenities designed for cold-weather comfort. Hearty breakfasts start ski days on the right note, while oversized soaking tubs and cozy guest rooms make it easy to unwind. Many travelers enjoy relaxing by the fire, sharing a bottle of wine, or simply slowing down after time outdoors.
For travelers exploring Minnesota ski resorts, Coffee Mill Ski Area delivers a relaxed pace, scenic setting, and easy access to regional attractions. Pairing a ski-focused itinerary with a stay at a Red Wing Bed and Breakfast creates a winter getaway that balances adventure with comfort, making it easy to enjoy everything the season has to offer.
Crabtree Falls, VA is One of the Best Waterfalls in Virginia
Crabtree Falls VA: A Weekend Waterfall Hike Worth Planning
Crabtree Falls VA is one of the most impressive waterfalls in Virginia and a must for anyone exploring the Blue Ridge Parkway or Shenandoah Valley. Often described as the tallest cascading waterfall east of the Mississippi River, the falls drop nearly 1,200 feet in a series of dramatic tiers. Instead of a single plunge, the water tumbles down the mountainside across five major cascades, which means the Crabtree Falls hike delivers multiple viewpoints and photo-worthy moments from start to finish.
The Crabtree trailhead is easy to access just off the Blue Ridge Parkway, and the hike is well-suited for a weekend itinerary in the Shenandoah Valley. The full route is about 2.5 miles round trip, with some steep and rocky sections as you climb. If you want a shorter option, the first overlook is only about 700 feet from the trailhead. That initial stretch is paved and gently sloped, so it works well for visitors who want a great view without committing to the entire climb.
Spring is a particularly rewarding time to visit Crabtree Falls Virginia. Snowmelt boosts water flow, and the trail feels cooler and greener as the forest wakes up. Along the route, you will find a series of overlooks where you can pause, reset, and take in the sound and scale of the cascades. At the top, a footbridge provides a close-up look at the upper falls and one of the classic viewpoints on the trail.
Many couples turn this hike into a slow-paced day by bringing a picnic and lingering at the overlooks. For an easy option, consider a Crabtree Falls Picnic that includes a trail map, suggested picnic spots, and a packed lunch for two with sandwich choices, homemade sides, fruit, cookies, chips, and bottled water. Of course, this is just the start of what’s waiting for you here; there’s a nearly endless list of things to do in the Shenandoah Valley!
Romantic Cabins in Virginia for Your Weekend Base
After a day of waterfall hiking, come back to an elevated, comfortable place to unwind. Our romantic cabins in Virginia are designed for connection, with refined interiors, private porches, and thoughtful amenities that make it easy to slow down. Use your cabin as a home base for more Virginia waterfalls, scenic drives, and small-town exploring, then book direct when you are ready to lock in your weekend plans.
Discover Humboldt Bay on the Eureka Boardwalk
Best Eureka Waterfront Trail Walks and Bayfront Views
The Eureka Waterfront Trail offers one of the best ways to experience Humboldt Bay on the Redwood Coast. Stretching approximately 6.5 miles along the shoreline, this paved waterfront trail connects visitors with diverse coastal habitats, historic landmarks, and some of the most scenic views in Northern California. Whether you are walking, biking, or enjoying a leisurely weekend outing, the trail provides an excellent introduction to the natural beauty and history of Eureka.
Following the route of a former railroad corridor, the Eureka Waterfront Trail blends recreation with cultural and environmental interpretation. Along the way, visitors encounter salt marshes, coastal willow groves, sand dunes, and riverine habitats that support a variety of wildlife. Interpretive displays highlight the region’s maritime heritage and the deep cultural connections of the Wiyot people, whose ancestral homeland surrounds Humboldt Bay.
One of the most popular sections is the Eureka Boardwalk near Blue Ox Millworks. Elevated above the marsh, this stretch offers expansive views of Humboldt Bay, Eureka Slough, and the surrounding mountains. Informational signs provide insight into local ecosystems, migratory bird species, and the area’s cultural history, creating an experience that is both educational and visually engaging.
Birdwatchers regularly visit the trail in search of herons, bald eagles, peregrine falcons, and other coastal species. Opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, canoeing, and fishing are also available from various access points along the route. Public art installations add a layer of interest, complementing the surrounding scenery.
Stay at One of the Premier Eureka Pet Friendly Hotels
After exploring the waterfront trail, Carter House Inns provides an ideal place to unwind in the heart of Old Town Eureka. Located within walking distance of the bayfront, the property offers convenient access to many of the area’s most popular attractions, including shops, galleries, restaurants, and historic Victorian architecture.
Guests can enjoy beautifully restored accommodations, a celebrated wine cellar, and a gourmet breakfast each morning. Restaurant 301 enhances the experience with a farm-to-table dining program and an exceptional wine selection. As one of the most welcoming Eureka pet friendly hotels, Carter House Inns makes it easy to experience the best things to do in Eureka CA while enjoying thoughtful hospitality and a convenient location. Reserve your stay today and discover why the Eureka Waterfront Trail remains a favorite destination for a weekend getaway on the Redwood Coast.
Discover Red Wing Fall Colors
Why Fall Is the Season for Hiking in Red Wing, MN
If you’re planning a trip built around hiking in Red Wing, MN, aim for late September through October. The bluffs along the Mississippi River turn gold, orange, and deep red, and the cooler air makes the climbs far more comfortable than a humid July afternoon. Red Wing has three trail options worth your time this fall, and each one offers a different kind of hike, so the right pick comes down to how much time you have and how much climbing you want to do.
Barn Bluff: The Short Climb With the Big Payoff
Barn Bluff rises 340 feet above the Mississippi River, and the trail to the top is under a mile, though steep and rocky in spots. Twenty minutes of climbing puts you at an overlook with sweeping views of downtown Red Wing, the river, and the Wisconsin bluffs across the water. Fall color along the hardwoods makes the view even better.
Frontenac State Park: More Distance, More Views
About ten minutes from town, Frontenac State Park offers roughly 13 miles of trails ranging from flat walks to steeper bluff-top routes. The Bluffside Trail has the longest sightlines, stretching down to Lake Pepin and across into Wisconsin. Fall also brings migrating hawks and songbirds through on the Mississippi Flyway, so it’s a solid pick if birdwatching is part of your trip.
Cannon Valley Trail: The Easy, Longer Option
For a flatter, longer walk, the Cannon Valley Trail follows an old rail line for almost 20 miles between Red Wing and Cannon Falls, passing prairie, hardwood forest, and wetlands along the Cannon River. You don’t need to walk the whole thing. An hour or two gives you plenty of fall color without the climbing you’ll get on the other two trails.
What to Pack for Fall Hiking in Red Wing
Mornings on the bluffs run cool even when the afternoon warms up, so bring layers. A light jacket usually covers it, but pack something warmer if you’re heading out early or staying until sunset. Footwear matters more than you’d expect. Barn Bluff and Frontenac both have rocky, uneven sections, so supportive shoes with good tread make a real difference. The Cannon Valley Trail is paved and flat, so it’s more forgiving. Bring water, since none of the trailheads have access once you’re on the trail, and small bills or a card if you need a wheel pass for the Cannon Valley Trail.
Make It an Outdoor Fall Getaway at Round Barn Farm
After a day on the bluffs, you’ll want somewhere comfortable to land, and this Bed and Breakfast in Red Wing, MN puts you close to all three trails. Round Barn Farm sits on 35 acres, anchored by a 1914 round barn on the National Register of Historic Places. We offer five guest rooms, including two deluxe suites, each with private baths and countryside views, plus a full breakfast every morning to fuel your next hike. It’s an easy base for an outdoor adventure getaway, whether you’re tackling Barn Bluff before checkout or spending a full day at Frontenac.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best hike near Red Wing, MN for a short visit?
Barn Bluff is the best choice if your time is limited. The round trip takes about 20 to 30 minutes and ends at one of the best overlooks in town.
Is Frontenac State Park good for a full day of hiking?
Yes. With around 13 miles of trails ranging from flat lakeside walks to steeper bluff routes, Frontenac gives you the most variety of the three options.
Do I need a pass for the Cannon Valley Trail?
Yes, a wheel pass is required for bikers on the Cannon Valley Trail. Check current pricing and locations before your visit. Hikers do NOT need to purchase a pass.
When is peak fall color in Red Wing, MN?
Color typically peaks in early to mid-October, though timing shifts slightly year to year depending on weather.
Ready to Plan Your Trip?
Round Barn Farm is your home base for hiking in Red Wing, MN this fall. Book your room at our Bed and Breakfast in Red Wing, MN and wake up minutes from Barn Bluff, Frontenac State Park, and the Cannon Valley Trail and all the best things to do in Red Wing.
Discover the Beautiful Marymere Falls in Olympic National Park
A Short Hike With Big Scenery
Few Olympic National Park hikes pack in as much scenery in under two miles as Marymere Falls. The trail begins near the shore of Lake Crescent and winds through centuries-old forest, crosses two picturesque creek bridges, and ends at a 90-foot waterfall dropping into a fern-covered ravine. It is one of the most accessible waterfalls in Olympic National Park and one of the best short hikes for anyone building a nature retreat around the peninsula.
Because the hike is short, you will still have plenty of time to see more of the area afterward. Walk the Spruce Railroad Trail at nearby Lake Crescent, one of Washington’s deepest and clearest lakes, or continue on to other Olympic National Park waterfalls like Sol Duc Falls and Madison Falls. For a different landscape entirely, the Hoh Rain Forest and the Pacific coastline are both within reach. Few parks offer this much variety in such a short drive, which is exactly why so many trip itineraries center on this corner of the peninsula.
If you are looking for lodging in Olympic National Park, our vacation rentals across Port Angeles and Sequim range from romantic treehouses and waterfront cabins to mountain-view retreats and a castle surrounded by Sequim’s lavender fields. Staying nearby keeps you close to the park’s most popular attractions while giving you the space and privacy a real nature retreat should have.
Plan Your Marymere Falls Hike
The Marymere Falls Trail begins near the Storm King Ranger Station on the south shore of Lake Crescent. Within the first few minutes, the trail passes beneath Highway 101 through a short pedestrian tunnel before entering old-growth forest filled with western hemlock, Douglas fir, western red cedar, and moss-covered bigleaf maples. The full hike runs 1.8 miles round trip with about 200 feet of elevation gain. The first half stays fairly level before climbing through switchbacks and wooden stairs to the waterfall viewpoints, crossing bridges over Barnes Creek and Falls Creek along the way. Most visitors spend an hour to an hour and a half on the trail.
Marymere Falls drops about 90 feet into a narrow, shaded canyon, making it one of the most photographed waterfalls in Olympic National Park. Two viewing platforms offer different perspectives: the lower overlook gives a front-facing view of the falls, while the upper platform shows more of the surrounding cliffs and forest. Even in summer, the dense canopy keeps the trail pleasantly cool.
This trail ranks among the busiest in the park from late spring through early fall. Parking at the Storm King Ranger Station often fills before mid-morning, so an early or late-afternoon start gives you the best shot at a spot and fewer crowds. If the main lot is full, you can also start from Lake Crescent Lodge, which adds only a short walk. A valid Olympic National Park entrance pass is required; restrooms are available at both the ranger station and the lodge, and pets are not permitted on the trail. Shoes with good traction are recommended, since sections can turn muddy or slippery after rain.
Because the hike is short, there is time to explore more of the Lake Crescent area afterward. Take a swim in the clear lake, have lunch at Lake Crescent Lodge, stroll the nearby Moments in Time Nature Trail, or tackle the steeper Mount Storm King hike from the same trailhead. Within an hour of Marymere Falls, you can also reach the Hoh Rain Forest, Sol Duc Falls, or the sea stacks at Rialto Beach, making this one of the easiest bases for experiencing the range of things to do in Olympic National Park.
Find the Best Lodging in Olympic National Park
There is no better way to close out a day at Marymere Falls than returning to a vacation rental built for the surrounding scenery. Our lodging in Olympic National Park includes treehouses tucked into the forest canopy, waterfront cabins, mountain-view retreats, and a castle framed by Sequim’s lavender fields.
Staying near Port Angeles or Sequim keeps you close to everything the park offers. After a day on the trail, relax in a private hot tub, cook dinner in a full kitchen, or take in views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca or the Olympic Mountains. Many properties also offer easy access to beaches, hiking trails, and kayaking, so the exploring does not have to stop once you leave the trailhead.
Book Your Nature Retreat Today
A trip built around Marymere Falls and Lake Crescent works best with a home base that matches the scenery. Book your lodging in Olympic National Park and start planning your next nature retreat on the peninsula.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the hike to Marymere Falls?
The Marymere Falls Trail is 1.8 miles round trip with about 200 feet of elevation gain, and most visitors finish in an hour to an hour and a half.
Are dogs allowed in Olympic National Park?
Dogs are allowed in many areas of the park, including some roads and campgrounds, but pets are not permitted on the Marymere Falls Trail itself.
Do you need a pass for Olympic National Park?
Yes. A valid Olympic National Park entrance pass is required to access trailheads throughout the park, including the one for Marymere Falls.
What is the entrance fee for Olympic National Park?
Entrance fees vary by pass type and vehicle, so check the current rate on the National Park Service website before your visit.
Discover the Beauty of the Watkins Glen Waterfalls
Best Watkins Glen Waterfalls in the Finger Lakes
Watkins Glen waterfalls are one of the most exciting natural attractions in the Finger Lakes, drawing visitors from all over the country eager to explore dramatic gorges, flowing water, and carved stone pathways. Located within Watkins Glen State Park, these waterfalls create an immersive outdoor experience that feels both adventurous and rewarding. For those building an itinerary around active exploration, this park easily ranks among the top things to do in the Finger Lakes.
The Gorge Trail is the highlight of any visit. Stretching roughly 1.5 miles, this trail winds past 19 distinct Watkins Glen waterfalls, each with its own character. Stone staircases climb beside rushing water, tunnels cut through rock, and overlooks reveal sweeping views of the gorge below. Late spring through early fall offers ideal conditions, with steady water flow and comfortable temperatures for hiking.
Among the most memorable stops along the trail are Rainbow Falls, where mist often creates colorful arcs in the sunlight, and Cavern Cascade, which allows hikers to walk directly behind the falling water. Central Cascade, one of the tallest waterfalls in the park, adds to the sense of scale and movement throughout the gorge. The Spiral Tunnel and Suspension Bridge offer elevated viewpoints and photo-worthy perspectives of the waterfalls in the Finger Lakes.
Adventure-Friendly Lodging Near Watkins Glen State Park
After a full day on the Gorge Trail, staying nearby makes the adventure even better. Choosing a boutique hotel close to Watkins Glen State Park allows guests to start early, avoid crowds, and return easily for rest and relaxation. Comfortable guest rooms, on-site spa amenities, and thoughtful hospitality create a welcome balance between activity and recovery.
As one of the most romantic Boutique Hotels in the Finger Lakes, couples enjoy spending time out exploring as much as they do in the privacy of their own guest room. Our property offers lovely indoor and outdoor spaces to relax, and we’ll take care of breakfast each morning of your stay!
Whether you are hiking beneath waterfalls, climbing stone staircases, or exploring one of the Finger Lakes’ most iconic parks, Watkins Glen waterfalls deliver an unforgettable adventure-focused experience in Upstate New York.
Discover the Beauty of Willow River State Park in Wisconsin
Best Things to Do in Willow River State Park in Spring
Spring is one of the most exciting times to experience Willow River State Park in the Midwest. As the snow melts and the river swells, Willow Falls transforms into one of the most powerful and unforgettable waterfalls in Wisconsin. The layered rock formations and rushing water create a dramatic scene that draws outdoor lovers from across the region.
Beyond Willow Falls, Willow River State Park offers more than 13 miles of scenic trails, making it a true spring adventure destination. The Willow River State Park Trails wind through woodlands, along bluffs, and past peaceful overlooks. The Hidden Ponds Nature Trail is accessible and welcoming to all visitors, while other paths provide rewarding elevation and views of the 200-foot Willow River Gorge.
Spring is also ideal for fishing in the Willow River, where anglers can find panfish, bass, and trout upstream of the dam. Little Falls Lake opens opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and shoreline picnics before the busy summer season begins. Birdwatchers will appreciate the activity across this beautiful stretch of Wisconsin State Parks, as migratory species return and native wildlife becomes more active. There are so many fantastic things to do in Wisconsin on your next visit.
Stay Near Willow River State Park
After a full day outdoors, unwinding at one of the nearby Wisconsin Bed and Breakfasts is always a treat. These locally owned properties offer a personalized alternative to standard lodging, with thoughtful hospitality and inviting spaces designed for relaxation. Staying at a Wisconsin Bed and Breakfast places you close to the best things to do in Hudson, WI, including St. Croix River cruises, historic downtown shopping, and exceptional dining.
Willow River State Park is easily one of the most memorable State Parks in Wisconsin, and spring gives you the perfect window to experience it at its peak. Plan your adventure now, explore the trails, stand beside Willow Falls, and book your stay near Hudson for a getaway that blends outdoor excitement with refined comfort.