4 Hikes For A Weekend Or Day Trip From The Twin Cities

Banning State Park is a beautiful spot for a leisurely hike and/or camping. There is so much cool scenery around, from the quarry ruins to the rushing rapids and peaceful waterfall.

Vermillion Falls Park in Hastings is about 40 minutes Southeast of the cities. Walk down to the gorgeous falls, have a picnic in the park, and grab some coffee from Froth & Cork in town for the drive back!

If you’re up for a longer trip, Bean & Bear Lake are about 3.5 hours North of the cities. The hike is part of the Superior Hiking Trail and would be a perfect addition to a Duluth trip. If you can’t get enough of these gorgeous views, campsites are available to reserve.

Fairy Falls in Stillwater are hidden away and tough to park by, but if you’re able to be dropped off there, it’s a cool little spot to explore! Stop by quick to check out the top of the falls or plan a morning/afternoon to hike around and find your favorite way down. Wear shoes you don’t mind getting dirty/wet!
Temporarily closed due to Covid-19. Check this link for updates: https://www.nps.gov/sacn/index.htm

Now head on out there and explore this beautiful state!!

Exploring the Majestic Antelope Canyon

When planning our Arizona trip, I read so many blog posts that talked about how crowded the popular tourist spots were, so I knew I had to make a plan to enjoy these places with smaller crowds. The plan worked out perfectly, and we were overjoyed to see we never had to share a beautiful location with more than 15 people! Here are my tips to avoid the crowds when planning your visit to Antelope Canyon.

Continue reading “Exploring the Majestic Antelope Canyon”

Early Day at Horseshoe Bend

This was my favorite capture. The sun had just come up moments before snapping this photo.

Horseshoe Bend is one of those iconic places where I’d seen the same photo taken so many times. I was curious as to how to see this view at the best time of day, and I came across so many answers when doing some research. I found the perfect way to make a decision that works for me, while also dodging the crowds if possible. Here are some of my best tips to enjoy the best lighting at Horseshoe Bend without being shoulder to shoulder with other, equally eager, visitors!

Continue reading “Early Day at Horseshoe Bend”

Devil’s Bridge Hike

The view on the way up to the bridge.

Devil’s Bridge is a popular hiking destination in Sedona, AZ for locals and tourists alike. This natural sandstone arch is so impressive, and offers breathtaking views of the red rocks around you.

The hike length varies depending on where you start, and whether or not you have a 4×4 or 4-wheel-drive car. The shortest and easiest hike starts with a drive on a bumpy, mile-long dirt road, followed by a short, mostly marked, hike from the Devil’s Bridge Trailhead.

Continue reading “Devil’s Bridge Hike”