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Outdoor Adventures in Mallorca: Your Complete Travel Guide

Meredith — Fri, 22 Aug 2025 09:43:27 +0000

Outdoor Adventures in Mallorca: Your Complete Travel Guide

Mallorca, the largest of Spain’s Balearic Islands, is more than just a sun-soaked holiday escape. Beyond its turquoise waters and lively resort towns, outdoor adventures in Mallorca can be found around every corner. From sailing around dramatic limestone cliffs that plunge into the sea to hiking within its rugged interior, this island is packed with adventure opportunities!

Mallorca is also a premier destination for cyclists. When Europe and North America are deep into the winter months of cold and grey days, Mallorca offers sunny mornings and plenty of empty roads with climbs that challenge, but reward, without battling harsh elements.

If you’re dreaming of a trip that combines Spanish food and culture, breathtaking scenery, and plenty of other outdoor activities to keep you busy, Mallorca should be at the top of your travel list!

This travel guide covers everything you need to know to plan a relaxing yet adventurous trip:

How to get to Mallorca
Best times to visit
Where to stay for easy access to outdoor activities
5 best outdoor adventures in Mallorca
Plus travel tips to help you plan your trip

So vamos, let’s go!

How to Get to Mallorca

Mallorca is easy to reach, whether you’re traveling from Europe or further abroad. Palma de Mallorca Airport (PMI) is located just a few kilometers outside Palma, the capital. As one of Spain’s busiest airports, it receives direct flights from most European cities, including London, Paris, and Rome. Seasonal routes also bring in travelers from the U.S. and beyond during the summer months.

If you’re already in Spain, ferries are another option. Daily services connect Mallorca with Barcelona, Valencia, and Denia, as well as other Balearic Islands like Ibiza and Menorca. Ferries are slower but can be convenient if you’re traveling with a car and pets. If you’re traveling by plane, renting a car is highly recommended once on the island for easy access to hiking, beaches, and remote villages that aren’t well-served by public transport.

When searching to make your travel arrangements, be aware that Mallorca may also appear written as Majorca or Maiorca, but they are all the same island.

Best Time to Visit for Outdoor Adventures in Mallorca

While Mallorca is a year-round destination, the best time for outdoor adventures in Mallorca is spring (April to June) and autumn (September to early November). During these months, the weather is pleasantly warm without being overwhelming, and the crowds are lighter. The winter months in Mallorca, from December through February, are ideal for hiking and cycling, as temperatures are cooler and the landscapes are lush.

Summer (July and August) is the hottest and busiest season. While it’s great for swimming and sailing, daytime highs in the summer months in Mallorca can make strenuous activities like hiking or cycling uncomfortable. If you do visit in peak summer, plan your adventures in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the strongest heat.

Best Towns to Stay in Mallorca for Adventure Access

Where you stay on the island can make a big difference in your adventure experience. Here are a few top towns that serve as excellent bases:

Palma de Mallorca

The capital city is perfect if you want a mix of urban life and outdoor adventure. Palma offers historic architecture, lively restaurants, and quick access to both the Serra de Tramuntana mountains and the sea.

Sóller

Nestled in a valley surrounded by mountains and orange groves, Sóller is a dream base camp for cyclists, hikers, and nature lovers. It’s also connected to Palma by a historic wooden train, making for a scenic ride.

Port de Pollença

On the northern coast, this town is ideal for water sports, sailing, and access to nearby climbing and hiking routes. Its laid-back vibe makes it popular with adventure travelers who also want a quiet base. Keep in mind, the northern parts of Mallorca, while they may look close and easily accessible on a map, require hours of driving from Palma on winding and exposed mountain roads!

Top 5 Outdoor Adventures in Mallorca

1. Rock Climbing and Deep Water Soloing

Mallorca is world-renowned for its limestone cliffs, making it one of Europe’s top destinations for rock climbers. Traditional sport climbing can be found across the island, but Mallorca is especially famous for deep water soloing (known locally as psicobloc or DWS). This unique form of climbing involves scaling sea cliffs without ropes, with a fall sending you plunging into the Mediterranean! The Cala Varques and Cova del Diablo areas are particularly popular with climbers who want to deep water solo in Mallorca.

For those new to climbing, especially deep water soloing, go with a guide! TripAdvisor has a good round-up of the best rock climbing tours on the island.

2. Hiking the Serra de Tramuntana

The Serra de Tramuntana mountain range, a UNESCO World Heritage site, stretches along Mallorca’s northwestern coast and offers some of the island’s most rewarding hikes. Trails range from easy coastal walks to challenging mountain treks. One of the most famous routes is the GR-221, also known as the Dry Stone Route, a long-distance trail that takes you through charming villages, olive groves, and rugged peaks. Day hikes like the climb up Puig de Massanella, the island’s second-highest peak, provide panoramic views that are worth every step.

3. Cycling Mallorca’s Winding Roads and Classic Climbs

Mallorca is a mecca for cyclists, attracting amateurs and professionals alike. The island’s varied terrain provides options for every skill level, from flat coastal rides, beach cruiser style, to challenging mountain ascents tackled by the pros. The climb to Sa Calobra, with its 26 hairpin turns, is legendary among cycling enthusiasts!

The mild weather makes Mallorca especially popular for winter cycling trips. Many hotels and shops around Palma and Alcúdia cater specifically to cyclists, offering bike rentals, guided tours, and repair services. If you’re interested in booking a cycling training camp, check out Sa Calobra Cycling Club!

4. Swimming at the Hidden Coves and Beaches

While Mallorca’s beaches are famous, some of the best swimming spots require a bit of adventure to reach. Hidden coves like Cala Deià, Cala Tuent, and Cala Varques reward hikers or boaters with crystal-clear waters and fewer crowds than the island’s more popular beaches. Snorkeling is also excellent here, with vibrant marine life just below the surface. If you’re looking for a more remote and wild swimming experience, head to the rugged eastern or northern coastlines, where cliffs and pine forests frame secluded coves.

5. Sailing and Boating Adventures

The coastline of Mallorca is best appreciated from the water, and sailing is a quintessential island experience. You can charter a sailboat for the day, join a guided catamaran trip, or rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore at your own pace. Popular sailing routes include exploring the Bay of Palma, cruising to Cabrera National Park, or anchoring in secluded bays along the northern coast. With calm Mediterranean waters and consistent breezes, Mallorca is a paradise for both experienced sailors and beginners looking to try something new.

Tips for Planning Outdoor Adventures in Mallorca

Rent a car:

While public transport connects major towns, a rental car gives you the freedom to explore remote trails and hidden coves, and get to places like Sa Calobra or the northern town of Port de Pollença.

Bring your own gear:

Unless you’ve booked with a tour operator that is supplying gear, pack everything you need for hiking, biking, and rock climbing. A Camelbak or other hydration pack is also a good idea. There will be little opportunity to buy gear for outdoor adventures in Mallorca, especially once you leave Palma!

Pack layers and a rain jacket:

All outdoor adventurers know that weather can play a key role in the day’s activities. Weather in the mountains of Mallorca can shift quickly, so always pack rain gear and layers!

Book outdoor activities in advance:

Guided tours and adventure activities in Mallorca can fill up during peak seasons, so plan ahead to secure your spot. Especially if you have an interest in winter cycling camps!

Respect nature and culture:

The Serra de Tramuntana is a UNESCO site, and the island’s environment is fragile. Stick to marked trails and follow local guidelines while traveling in Mallorca.

Spain’s Balearic islands are perfect for sailing and snorkeling with quiet, secluded beaches and protected coves nestled in between rocky cliffs.

Why Plan Your Outdoor Adventures in Mallorca

Mallorca combines natural beauty, Spanish culture, and a wide range of outdoor activities. You can climb limestone cliffs in the morning, cycle through mountain passes in the afternoon, and end the day swimming in a hidden cove or sailing under the sunset. Add in charming villages, delicious Mediterranean cuisine, and friendly hospitality, and you have the perfect formula for an unforgettable trip!

Whether you’re a climber seeking the thrill of deep water soloing, a cyclist chasing the famous switchbacks of Sa Calobra, or a hiker eager to explore the Tramuntana trails, outdoor adventures in Mallorca await!

If you’re interested in more outdoor adventures like rock climbing and cycling, check out these blogs:

Thanks for reading and happy travels!

Meredith Caccese McConvill, Top Rope Media

The post Outdoor Adventures in Mallorca: Your Complete Travel Guide appeared first on Top Rope Media.

Dolomites Adventure Travel Guide

Meredith — Tue, 01 Apr 2025 02:38:04 +0000

Dolomites Adventure Travel Guide

Ready to explore Italy beyond the usual sights? Our Dolomites Adventure Travel Guide is your perfect trip companion! Whether you love to hike, ski, or bike, the Dolomites, or Dolomiti as it’s spelt in Italian, offer endless opportunities to explore.

In addition, the Dolomiti region just hosted events for the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympics and Paralympics, and Italy’s majestic peaks shone brightly on the world stage!

This Dolomites Adventure Travel Guide will include:

What Makes the Dolomites Special
How to Get There
10 Best Dolomites Travel Adventures
Where to Stay During Your Dolomites Travels

As adventure travelers, we relocated to the Dolomites for access to ski and climb its towering peaks, ride bikes over mountain passes, and through rolling green meadows. Of course, it wouldn’t be Italy if the most delicious food wasn’t a part of the journey!

So let’s dive into why Dolomites adventure travel is so special, and along the way, we’ll provide you with lots of tips to help you plan your trip! Andiamo, let’s go!

What Makes the Dolomites Special?

Before we dive into the adventures, it’s important to know a little about the history of the Dolomites and why this region has a UNESCO World Heritage Site designation.

The moment you arrive in the Dolomites, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a world apart from the rest of Italy. The architecture has a storybook alpine charm. The food blends hearty mountain flavors with Italian and Tyrolean traditions. You’ll also hear three languages: Italian, German, and Ladin or Ladino.

Much of this distinct character comes from the Dolomites’ history and geography. The rugged peaks once kept villages isolated. Locals farmed, raised livestock, and learned to thrive in the harsh alpine climate (many towns sit at 5,000 feet or higher). For centuries, the area was part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, and even today the German influence is woven into daily life—from the menus in mountain huts to the signs along winding roads. Ladin, an ancient language, is still spoken proudly in some valleys, preserving a culture that’s endured through centuries.

Although the Dolomites officially became part of Italy in 1919, after the collapse of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, the region’s blend of Italian passion and Austrian precision continues to make it one of the most fascinating cultural crossroads in Europe.

Regional Names and Languages Spoken in the Dolomites

The Dolomites area was called ‘Tyrol’ or ‘Tirol County’ by the Holy Roman Empire. Tyrol or South Tyrol is still used, and Tyrolean architecture and food dominate the region. In addition, the Ladin language, or ‘Ladino’, and the farming culture have been preserved through the centuries.

When you visit, you will see signs in Italian, Ladin, and German. All three languages are spoken here and are the official languages of the region. We’ll use both the Ladin and Italian names for places throughout this blog when possible.

Lastly, in case you are wondering how the Dolomites got their name, it’s thanks to French geologist Déodat de Dolomieu, who first identified the rocky mineral ‘dolomite’ in the 18th century. Dolomite is similar to limestone, with a striking pale and jagged appearance. It creates a dramatic landscape when complemented by shimmering alpine lakes, quaint Tyrolean villages, and meadows dotted with cows and sheep.

The view from Selva Val Gardena! Mountain homes throughout the Dolomites look more like Austrian or Swiss chalets than Italian villas.

Dolomites Adventure Travel Tips: How to Get There

The Dolomites are part of the Alps and are located in northeastern Italy. Within a few hours, you can reach the borders of Austria, Switzerland, and Germany.

If you plan to fly to begin your Dolomites adventure travel, there are several international airports nearby:

Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE) – 2.5 hours
Milan Malpensa (MXP)- 4-4.5 hours
Innsbruck Airport (INN) – Located in Austria, 2 hrs
Munich Airport (MUC)- Located in Germany, 3.5 hrs

In addition, there are also smaller airports like Verona (VRN), Treviso (TSF), and Bolzano (BZO), which are perfect if you’re coming from nearby EU countries or London and the UK. The closest airport to the Dolomites is in Bolzano, which is about 22 miles or 40 minutes away.

From all major airports, renting a car is the best way to get around. Public transportation can be limited in towns like Val Gardena, Canazei, Castelrotto, and Alta Badia. Even Cortina d’Ampezzo does not have a dedicated train line! This proved challenging during the 2026 Milano-Cortina Olympics, as parking is very limited in Cortina.

Speaking of trains, there is service close to the Dolomites region from cities like Rome, Venice, and Milan to Bolzano. However, you’ll have to take a bus, hire a tour guide, or rent a car to explore deeper. If you are interested in arriving by train, you’ll want to book tickets to one of the following stations:

Bolzano/Bolzen, if coming from Rome, Milan, or other points south and west
Bressanone or Dobbiaco, if you’re coming from Germany, Switzerland, or Austria
Calalzo-Pieve di Cadore-Cortina– if arriving from Venice

There are several direct bus lines that serve the Dolomiti region. For example, from Venice’s Marco Polo airport, you can board the FlixBus, ATVO, or Cortina Express. Each line has several departures per day that take you directly to Cortina d’Ampezzo.

If you’re looking for more scenic train travel, check out the Glacier Express, which goes from Zermatt to St. Moritz, or the Bernina Express. This beautiful scenic train ride crosses 196 bridges and 55 tunnels through the Swiss Alps from St. Moritz to Tirano, Italy!

Hiking along the Seceda ridgeline is not for the faint of heart, but you’ll be rewarded with incredible views, even if the foggy mist rises up from the valley below!

Top 10 Things To Do On Your Dolomites Adventure Travels

When it comes to Dolomites adventure travel, there are so many activities to fill your days that you’ll find it hard to sit still. We’ve settled in and are still discovering new things every day. Below are our Top 10 Things To Do in the Dolomites.

1. Explore the Seceda Ridgeline and Val Gardena

First up in our Dolomites adventure travel itinerary is to hike around the iconic peaks of the Val Gardena region, the most notable being the Seceda ridgeline above Ortisei. The easiest way to reach Seceda is via the Ortisei-Furnes-Seceda cable car, which departs from Ortisei in Val Gardena and takes you up to 2,500 meters in just minutes! Once at the top, you’ll find a stunning network of hiking trails, from easy panoramic walks to more challenging treks in the Puez-Odle Nature Park.

As Seceda is one of the most popular destinations in the Dolomites, here are some insider tips to explore the area without having to wait in lines or feel like cattle following the herd. Instead of taking the Ortisei-Furnes-Seceda cable car, park at the Col Raiser gondola station. At the top of the Col Raiser, you can access the Puez-Odle Nature Park and Seceda by hiking up through the rolling alpine meadows. Another great option is to park at Cristauta above Santa Cristina and hike up to the cross at Sëurasas and then onto Seceda.

Whether you head straight to the Seceda summit or opt for Col Raiser or Sëurasas, warm, inviting rifugios dot the alpine landscape. Our favorite family-run refugio off the beaten path is the Baita Sëurasas Hutte. Here, you’ll have no problem getting a table or a lounge chair, and can peacefully enjoy the delicious South Tyrolean cuisine with breathtaking views across Val Gardena to Sassolungo! The more popular spots, such as Baita Sofie Hütte and Baita Daniel Hütte, also offer cozy alpine hospitality but can be crowded in the summer months.

Whether you visit in summer for hiking or winter for skiing, the Seceda and peaks around Val Gardena offer spectacular vistas across the entire Dolomites.

2. Go Hiking and Rock Climbing at Cinque Torri

The Dolomites are a legendary hiking and climbing destination that attracts visitors from around the world. Here you’ll find thousands of trails, along with climbing routes ranging from beginner-friendly to expert-only. Many climbs date back to the early 1900s, with famous climbers like Reinhold Messner, Emilio Comici, and other pioneers setting challenging routes.

One of the most popular areas for hiking and climbing in the Dolomites is Cinque Torri. Cinque Torri is a stunning rock formation known for its towering spires that attract hikers, climbers, and history enthusiasts. The rock is dolomite or limestone in most areas, meaning big pockets, sharp edges, and lots of interesting features. In addition, this area is also famous for its WWI open-air ‘museum’, featuring restored trenches and military outposts from the war.

To get there, take the Cinque Torri chairlift from the Bai de Dones parking area, just a 20-minute drive from Cortina d’Ampezzo. Once you reach the top, you’ll arrive at Rifugio Scoiattoli. From here, it’s a few minutes’ walk on a gently sloping path with spectacular alpine scenery to reach Cinque Torri.

The trails around Cinque Torri offer breathtaking 360-degree views of the surrounding peaks, including Tofane and the Lagazuoi Massif. Whether you’re hiking, climbing, or simply enjoying the views, Cinque Torri is a must-visit in the Dolomites! As Cinque Torri is quite popular and can become crowded in the summer, quieter climbing and hiking areas include:

Vallunga/Langetal- In Val Gardena, easy sport climbing and hiking
Passo Falzarego- Great hiking and climbing
Marmolada- Good for experienced big wall climbers
Tre Cime di Lavaredo- Multi-pitch alpine routes

If you want to try rock climbing in the Dolomites and are new to the sport, hire a guide. Most towns offer guiding services, like Val Gardena Mountain Guides, Alta Badia Guides, or Guide Alpine Cortina. Going with a guide means they’ll take care of the gear, ensure the route selection is within your abilities, and you won’t get lost!

3. Ski the Sella Ronda

One of the most famous circuits in the Dolomites, the Sella Ronda, takes you on a breathtaking ski loop around the Sella Massif. The Sella Ronda route connects four major ski resort towns: Val Gardena, Corvara in Alta Badia, Arabba, and Canazei/Val di Fassa. You can ride the Sella Ronda clockwise (orange route) or counter-clockwise (green route), and there is signage at each resort to help you find your way.

You will need a Dolomiti Superski pass, and be prepared for a long day. However, the Sella Ronda passes mountain refugios at the top of the climbs and the villages in the valleys, so you’ll always have a place to stop, rest, and refuel.

With over 1,200 kilometers of ski slopes and 450 lifts, Dolomiti Superski is one of the largest ski areas in the world and includes many other resorts besides the four mentioned above. Whether you’re carving down perfectly groomed runs or exploring off-piste terrain, this interconnected network of resorts offers something for every level of skier. In addition, the slopes around Cortina d’Ampezzo are on the Dolomiti Superski!

Sella Ronda Distance: 25 miles/ 40 km
Elevation Gain/Loss: 7,800ft (2,400m) descent; you’ll get uphill by ski lift/cable car
Time Required: 4–6 hours (without long breaks)
Difficulty: Intermediate (some red runs, no black runs required)

The Dolomite Superski gives you access to over 12 ski resorts, 16 ski areas, 450 lifts, and incredible views around every turn!

4. Explore by Bicycle on Your Dolomites Adventure Travels

Cycling in the Dolomites is filled with exhilarating climbs and descents that take your breath away. There are plenty of bike shops throughout the Dolomites, Intersport and On the Rocks in Val Gardena, or 2ue&2ue in Cortina d’Ampezzo. You can rent a road bike, gravel bike, or e-bike, a helmet, and pick up any other gear you might have left at home.

You can also ride the Sella Ronda (mentioned above) by bike and loop around the roads that connect each valley of the Sella Group- Val Gardena, Corvara in Alta Badia, Arabba, and Canazei/Val di Fassa. If you choose to do the Sella Ronda bike route, here are the details for the road bike route only:

Distance: 36 miles/ 58km- start in any of the 4 valleys/resorts
Elevation Gain/Loss: 5,900ft ascending (1,800m), 5,900ft descending (1,800m)
Time Required: 4–6 hours (depending on fitness level)
Difficulty: Challenging (steep climbs/descents, high altitude)

Cycling without Car Traffic and Steep Climbing

Besides cycling the Sella Ronda, which you can ride almost all year round (when the roads are clear of snow), don’t miss the times when they are also free from car traffic! These include the Maratona dles Dolomites, a famous cycling event in July, Dolomiti Bike Day, and the Sella Ronda Bike Day is a car-free day for cyclists held twice a year, in June and September.

Lastly, if you are searching for routes that are flat AND free from car traffic, there are not many in the Dolomiti. Separate bike paths, paved and gravel, include rides from:

Bolzano to Chiusa and Bressanone
San Vito di Cadore to Cortina and Dobbiaco
Ortisei to Selva

5. Visit Lago di Braies, Lago Sorapis, and the Dolomiti Lakes Region

No Dolomites trip is complete without visiting its picturesque alpine lakes, and Lago di Braies or Pragser Wildsee is at the top of everyone’s list. With its stunning emerald waters reflecting the wild mountain peaks, Lago di Braies can be packed in the summertime, so plan to visit early in the morning.

Another Dolomiti lake that tops everyone’s list is often Lago di Sorapis. This lake is different than Lago di Braies as you cannot simply drive up and park in a giant parking lot. Instead, you have to park at Passo Tre Croci and hike in to reach Lago di Sorapis. The round-trip hike is about 7-8 miles (11-13km) and takes about 4-5 hours to complete.

The hike to Lago di Sorapis is an extremely popular hike, so plan to arrive early to get parking, and avoid hiking in the middle of summer. The crowds on the trail, plus the summer heat, make the hike to Lago di Sorapis not only challenging but also dangerous.

While visiting the lakes of the Dolomites, rent a rowboat, a kayak, or hike the loop around the lake. Swimming is not allowed in Lago di Braies, Lago di Sorapis, and many others to maintain their pristine condition. In addition, most Dolomiti alpine lakes barely get to 60 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer, so it would not make for a fun swim.

Other beautiful, and less crowded alpine lakes to add to your Dolomites adventure travel itinerary include:

Lago di Misurina
Lago di Dobbiaco (our favorite near Cortina)
Lago di Landro (you can swim here!)
Lago Federa and Croda da Lago (hike in from Malga Federa)
Spiaggia Verde (literally the ‘green beach’- you can sunbathe and swim in the river!)

6. Climb a Dolomiti Via Ferrata

The Dolomites are home to an extensive network of via ferratas, and this is one of our favorite things to do during our Dolomites adventure travels! A via ferrata (Italian for “iron path”) is a climbing route equipped with steel cables, ladders, and iron rungs. While you ascend rocks the way a rock climber would, via ferratas differ in that they have protection already in place. You will, however, need to wear a climbing harness and use a special lanyard system, like the Petzl Scorpio, when climbing a via ferrata.

Via ferratas were originally built during World War I in the Dolomites to help soldiers move through the mountains. Along the routes, you’ll find old war bunkers, trenches, tunnels, and signage about the battles fought. Today, more routes have been added to offer an exciting mix of climbing and hiking, making alpine peaks accessible to adventurous travelers.

If you’ve never done a via ferrata before and you are not a climber, go with a guide. They can provide gear and navigation, and you will learn the techniques of climbing a via ferrata. Here’s our favorite Dolomiti via ferratas to include in your adventure travel plans:

Via Ferrata Tridentina- Sella Group

The Via Ferrata Tridentina is a classic, offering spectacular views from the Refugio Pisciadù and a suspension bridge.
Location: Alta Badia, Sella Group
Time: 3-4 hours
Effort: Moderate

Via Ferrata Piz da Cir

Via Ferrata Piz da Cir is a short but scenic route in the Puez–Odle group of the Dolomites, perfect for those seeking a half-day adventure. The trailhead starts at Passo Gardena (2,121 m), but is easily reached by taking the Dantercepies cable car. An uphill hike of about 20 minutes from the refugio at the top of the cable car brings you to the base of the via ferrata.

Location: Val Gardena Pass/ Sella Group
Time: 1.5-2 hours
Effort: Easy to moderate. Suitable for fit beginners or as a warm-up for more challenging routes!

Via Ferrata Ra Pegna, Ra Bujela and Olivieri in Cortina

There are extensive networks of via ferratas around Cortina, and these are often the most easily accessible and scenic routes.

Location: Near Cortina on the Tofane (use ski lifts to access)
Time: 1 hour for Ra Pegna and Ra Bujela, 2 hours for via ferrata Olivieri
Effort: Ra Pegna and Ra Bujela are easy, perfect for beginners. Olivieri is more challenging and exposed.

One of the most photographed lakes of the Dolomites, Lago di Braies, is on every traveler’s list! In the winter, it’s covered in snow, but in the summer, you can rent a boat and paddle around the lake.

7. Go Mountain Biking: The Sella Ronda or Dolomiti Bike Parks

Riding the Sella Ronda by mountain bike is one of our favorite adventures of our Dolomites travels! We rented bikes and helmets at Intersport in Val Gardena; however, there are several bike shops in each town along the route. Make sure to pick up a Sella Ronda MTB map at the bike shop and buy a Dolomiti Supersummer Pass. Plan your day, leave extra time for stops, and avoid getting stuck when the lifts close for the day.

If you want to make it harder, you can ride uphill instead of taking a lift, but we recommend taking the ski lifts or cable cars. Then you can truly enjoy the sweeping descents as you plummet thousands of feet into the valleys below!

Distance: 36 miles/58km
Elevation Gain/Loss: 1,500ft (450m) gained (mostly you’ll take lifts), 13,629ft descending!!
Time Required: 6-8 hours
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult

Besides cycling the Sella Ronda, there are lots of flow trails and groomed bike parks in the Dolomites. Many ski lifts and gondolas will accommodate mountain bikes, so you can take the lifts up and enjoy lapping the big descents all day!

8. Hike the Tre Cime Lavaredo Loop

The Tre Cime di Lavaredo Loop is one of the most iconic hikes in the Dolomites, with breathtaking views of the famous three towering peaks. This moderate 6.2-mile (10km) loop takes about 3-4 hours to complete and starts from Rifugio Auronzo, which is accessible by car or shuttle bus from Cortina d’Ampezzo.

The well-marked trail winds past Rifugio Lavaredo and climbs to Forcella Lavaredo, where you’ll get stunning close-up views of the Tre Cime’s north faces. Continuing around the loop, you’ll pass Rifugio Locatelli, an excellent stop for a meal with panoramic vistas. This hike is best done in early summer (May-July) and then again in the fall when the trails are clear of snow. In August, the Tre Cime Lavaredo area is packed, and a reservation is needed to get a parking spot!

There are so many things to do in the Dolomites, but sometimes just sitting and watching the cows in Alpe d’Suisi is enough for me! Stay at least a few nights at an Agriturismo to learn about the farming culture practiced for centuries.

9. Visit Alpe di Siusi-Seiser Alm

Visiting Alpe di Siusi (Seiser Alm), Europe’s largest high alpine meadow, is a must for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. This vast plateau offers breathtaking views of the Sassolungo and Sciliar peaks, and lush green pastures dotted with traditional wooden huts.

You can reach Alpe di Siusi by cable car from Ortisei (St. Ulrich) or Castelrotto (Kastelruth). Private cars are restricted in Alpe di Siusi during peak hours unless you’re a resident, to help preserve this pristine landscape.

In summer, Alpe di Siusi is a paradise for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, while in winter, it transforms into a cross-country skiing and snowshoeing wonderland. The area is home to charming rifugios where you can enjoy local South Tyrolean specialties like speck, dumplings, and apple strudel while soaking in the stunning alpine scenery.

10. Take the Cable Car to Sassolungo/Langkofel

Taking the cable car up to Sassolungo (Langkofel) is an incredible way to experience the heart of the Dolomites, and I think we saved the best for last. The Forcella Sassolungo lift, a unique two-person standing cable car, departs from Passo Sella and ascends to Forcella del Sassolungo at 8,796ft (2,681m). The ride itself is an adventure; just getting into the cable car is an adventure!!

At the top, you can explore Rifugio Toni Demetz, a cozy mountain hut with spectacular panoramas and delicious local food. From here, hikers can descend into the Sassolungo Group or continue to the Friedrich August trail for a stunning trek along the ridgeline.

There’s also great rock climbing at Sassolungo, including a via ferrata, or nearby at the Città di Sassi. Whether you’re a hiker, climber, or simply want to enjoy the views, traveling in the Sassolungo cable car is a must-do in the Dolomites!

From Val Gardena, take the tiny cable car up to the top of the Sassolungo and enjoy the views from the Rifugio Toni Demetz!

Where to Stay During Your Dolomites Travels

The villages of the Dolomites are a mix of traditional alpine mountain towns, charming ski resorts, and small rural settlements that blend Italian, Austrian, and Ladin cultures. Many have a Tyrolean feel, with wooden chalets, frescoed churches, and pedestrian walkways closed to car traffic.

In addition, if you’re buying a Dolomiti Superski or Supersummer Pass, ensure the towns you’re visiting are on the pass. There are so many Dolomiti villages and 12 ski resorts to choose from! Here are the best Dolomites towns to use as a base for exploring the area:

1. Cortina d’Ampezzo:

A premier luxury resort town close to Cinque Torre, Tre Cime di Lavaredo, Lago Misurina, and Lago di Braies. The 2026 Winter Olympics and Paralympics featured several events on the slopes of Cortina!

2. Ortisei/St. Ulrich, Selva/Wolkenstein, or Santa Cristina (Val Gardena):

The Val Gardena towns of Selva, Ortisei, and Santa Cristina offer access to Alpe di Suisi, the Sella Ronda, and the famous Seceda ridgeline.

3. Alta Badia:

The Dolomites quieter, yet more central locations for skiing and mountain biking, with access to the Sella Ronda, include towns in Alta Badia like San Cassiano, Badia, Villa, and Corvara.

4. Canazei (Val di Fassa):

Canazei is a charming ski town with access to the Sella Ronda and the entire Val di Fassa region.

Mountain Rifugios & Agriturismos

In addition to the Dolomites villages we’ve highlighted, we highly recommend booking a night or two at a mountain refugio (or rifugio). The refugios are often accessible by ski lift, cable car, or by hiking up from the valley. Most refugios will offer meals, accommodations, and a well-stocked bar. They’ll also have nice open spaces both inside and outside to relax. There is no central booking system for the Dolomites refugios. Your best bet is to find a refugio close to the town you want to explore, then look up their website for more information on booking a night.

We have stayed at the Rifugio Scoiattoli at Cinque Torri, which allowed us more time without tourists to hike and climb in the Cinque Torri area. We spent evenings there watching the sunset, enjoying an Aperol spritz while the last hikers departed downhill and the goats and sheep slowly made their way up. It was like a fairy tale.

In addition to staying at a mountain rifugio, experience traditional Ladin and farming culture by spending a night at an Agriturismo (Agriturismi). We spent a week at the Larciunëi de Sot in Selva Val Gardena and had the chance to meet all the animals, plus we had fresh eggs, milk, and bread delivered to our apartment daily!

The views from Rifugio Scoiattoli at Cinque Torri are simply unbelievable! Whether summer or wintertime, staying at a refugio is one of the best ways to experience the Dolomites!

Skiing the Venues of the 2026 Milano-Cortina Winter Olympics

Skiing or snowboarding at the venues featured during the 2026 Winter Olympics & Paralympics in Milano-Cortina is an unforgettable experience. Cortina d’Ampezzo hosted key events like Alpine Skiing, Bobsled, Luge, Curling, and both Para Skiing and Para Snowboarding.

An hour from Cortina, you’ll find even more Olympic venues: Ski Jumping, Nordic Combined, and Cross-Country Skiing were held near Predazzo in Val di Fiemme. Then, north of Cortina, the biathlon took place in Anterselva (Antholz).

Final Thoughts on Planning a Dolomites Adventure Travel Itinerary

The Dolomites are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most stunning mountain ranges in the world. From dramatic peaks, pristine alpine lakes, and world-class outdoor activities, the Dolomites are a dream destination for adventure travelers, and it’s why we’ve chosen to call this place home.

With majestic views just outside your doorstep and trails suitable for all levels, everyone can enjoy the outdoors in the Dolomites. In addition, many high alpine trails can be easily accessed from towns throughout the Dolomites thanks to an abundance of gondolas and cable cars. Keep in mind, gondolas and ski lifts close at the end of the ski season (late March- early April), and then reopen in May/June until the end of September for summertime activities.

Even if you’re not up for a big hike, taking a cable car up to one of the many mountain-top refugios can be quite exhilarating and an adventure in itself.

We hope this travel guide inspires you to visit. The Dolomites offer endless opportunities for exploration, plus a chance to step back in time and experience both Ladin cultural traditions and WWI history. If you do visit, please let us know if you need any tips!

If you want more tips on travel in the EU, here are some of our more popular blogs:

Until next time, happy travels, and thanks for reading!

Meredith Caccese McConvill, Top Rope Media

The post Dolomites Adventure Travel Guide appeared first on Top Rope Media.

Americans Traveling to Cuba

Meredith — Mon, 20 Feb 2023 15:58:18 +0000

Americans Traveling to Cuba: The Land of Classic Cars, Cigars, and Rock Climbing!

With warm Caribbean breezes, charming, brightly-colored casitas, salsa dancing, and classic cars from the 1940s rumbling through cobblestoned colonial plazas, you might be wondering if Americans can travel to Cuba. It is after all an exotic Caribbean paradise untouched by Starbucks and McDonalds! Plus there’s the chance to wander through old hotels built by mobster Meyer Lansky, or pull up a bar stool at a swanky locale where Hemingway wrote his Noble Prize-winning works!

However, what made me finally start researching ‘can Americans travel to Cuba’, was when I discovered Cuba has a small but thriving rock-climbing community. In fact, just two hours west of Havana lies a lush, tropical rainforest with some of the best limestone cliffs and overhanging crags in all of the Caribbean!

Yet as an American, traveling to Cuba might be thought of as illegal and unsafe. However, you can travel to Cuba as an American! And in this blog, we’re going to show you how!

We’ve included the following tips for Americans traveling to Cuba:

Which category you might travel under (you’ll need to fall into one of twelve categories)
What airlines fly to Cuba
Best American cities to depart from for Cuba travel
How to deal with not using your credit card or ATMs
Where to find wifi or cell service
But most importantly, how to have the adventure of a lifetime!

A 1950’s Chevy Bel Air is your typical taxi cab in Havana, Cuba.

Adventure-loving Americans Traveling to Cuba

First, a little different than my other travel blogs, I’m starting with the story of how we got to Cuba as I think you might learn a few things! There I was cruising down the road with my fedora, sunglasses, and the cutest sundress. The Orishas, a Cuban hip-hop group, filled the air. I am surrounded by my adventure-seeking friends.

However, instead of sitting in a 1952 Ford Fairlane on the streets of Old Havana, I began writing this blog while straddling my backpack, crammed in the backseat of a Dodge Charger, and flying across the Everglades from Tampa towards Fort Lauderdale.

Why you might ask did this happen?? Well, we showed up at our gate 59 minutes before our flight and were denied boarding in Tampa. So we rented a car, drove a few hours, and caught the afternoon flight to Cuba out of Fort Lauderdale. Rule number one: Arrive super early for international flights to Cuba!

In order to make your trip to Cuba less, um, eventful, here are some tips:

1. Americans Traveling to Cuba: Flights

Air travel to Cuba from the U.S.

US airlines that fly to Cuba include Southwest Airlines, Jet Blue, and Delta. Most flights will go through Tampa or Fort Lauderdale, and then onto José Martí International Airport in Havana. There are also smaller airports in Cuba, such as Varadero and Santa Clara, however, most airlines from the U.S. will fly into Havana.

We booked with Southwest Airlines, however, we had to book round-trip tickets to Florida, then separate round-trip tickets to Havana. In addition, there are direct flights to Havana from Houston, Miami, Tampa, Fort Lauderdale, or New York’s JFK or Newark airport.

Did you know Cuba is also a great destination for snorkeling and scuba diving?

Tips For Check-In And Packing for your Cuba trip

For Americans traveling to Cuba, arrive at least 2 hours before your departure time. It doesn’t matter if you are an A-list member or a Platinum Superstar team member. Also, do not expect to use the kiosks to check in, and forget about checking in online. You will most likely need to go to a special counter for Cuba flights once you arrive at the airport. In our case, this counter closed 60 minutes prior to departure. Again, just get there early.

Be prepared to pay $50-$85 per person for your visa. Your Cuban visa, along with all travel documents needed for Cuba, can be acquired at the airport counter or in advance through your airline. Have your passport ready, and be prepared to provide your reason for traveling to Cuba. As we were donating rock climbing gear on this trip, we made the trip to support the Cuban people.

Here are the 12 categories that Americans must select from when traveling to Cuba:

Family visit
Official government visit
Journalistic activity
Professional research or meetings
Educational activities
Religious activities
Public performances, clinics, or workshops
Athletic competitions or exhibitions
Support for the Cuban people
Humanitarian projects
Activities of private foundations or institutes
Exportation, Importation, or the transmission of information materials

Pack light. This is the Caribbean after all. You will not need more than a sweatshirt or jacket during your trip to Cuba, even if you plan to head to more mountainous areas like Viñales in the wintertime. And even in fancy Cuban hotels, like Hotel Inglaterra, or popular restaurants, like Floridita, shorts, and flip-flops are the norm.

Do not bring a drone. Do not bring walkie-talkies. Yes, my outdoor adventure-loving friends were traveling with both! There are actually a lot of items that are prohibited or considered weapons in Cuba. Best to leave the fancy equipment at home anyways!

Cuba is the home of the Daiquiri, and La Floridita is one of the best places to enjoy it!

2. Wi-Fi And Phone Service in Cuba

As an American traveling in Cuba, do not depend on international phone service and internet access. One of our friends was excited to have CubaCel service when we landed. However, two days into our trip, he received a call from AT&T that his roaming charges were nearing $700!!

Therefore, even if you have an international plan for your mobile phone, check with your U.S. carrier to ensure they have a contract with ETECSA in Cuba. And confirm what you should expect to pay before departure.

The best bet is often to leave your phone in airplane mode, and/or turn off cellular data to restrict all data to wi-fi, including texts, email, and web browsing.

The good news, there are wi-fi parks and hot spots! As your taxi brings you into town, you will notice lots of local Cubans sitting in parks on their cell phones. This is because there is no internet access at home. Cuba’s national telecom company, ETECSA, instead provides internet access in most major hotels and in wi-fi hotspots across the country.

To log on, first purchase a wi-fi card, basically a piece of paper with a username and password on it, from a local bodega. Keep in mind, most of your apps will not work the way they do in the U.S. And do not expect to be booking an Uber or Lyft ride in Cuba anytime soon!

Pack light and use the parks to find transportation, connect to the internet, or just seek out the shade when traveling in Cuba!

3. Americans Traveling in Cuba: Transportation

Americans are so used to renting a car when traveling. However, you will not need a rental car in Cuba! We were able to arrange transportation into Havana easily with one of the many brightly-colored old school ‘taxis’ parked outside of José Martí International Airport. These vintage American cars have been restored to greatness here in Cuba despite having an ongoing trade embargo in place since the 1960’s! And owning one is like a badge of honor.

Other options? Ask your host or hotel concierge to book transportation for you. Even with five people and large backpacks filled with rock climbing gear, we always found it easy to coordinate a ride to the next town!

Be prepared to sweat into the oldies! Do not expect air-conditioning in your vintage 1952 Buick Roadmaster or your 1958 Chevy Bel-Air. Open the windows and enjoy the breeze. However, if air-conditioning is a must, Cuba does have newer cars and shuttle vans with AC available upon request.

4. Finding Accommodations in Cuba

There are plenty of hotels in the major tourist areas of Old Havana, Trinidad, and Varadero (think Cancún style beach resorts). However, you will need to make reservations for accommodations in Cuba before leaving the U.S. In addition, you may not be able to book using apps like AirBnB while in Cuba. We had trouble with this, and had to message a friend in the U.S. to book our last two nights for us!

Keep in mind, most of your phone apps will not work as they do in the U.S., even when connected to wifi.

As an American traveling in Cuba, you will get to know the people and culture if you stay at a Casa particulares. Cubans are becoming more entrepreneurial and are using their homes to host visitors. These are known as casa particulares and we booked in advance through Airbnb! You can book exactly like you would when traveling anywhere else. Features like Instant Booking and Superhosts are available, and we poured through reviews before selecting our homes in three different cities.

Typically you can reserve a hotel or your casa particulares online, and pay cash upon arrival. Bring extra cash (to exchange for Cuban dollars at the airport) if you plan to do this. More on exchanging American dollars for Cuban pesos in a bit!

An incredible fried chicken dinner at Juany and Daniels, our casa particulares in Viñales, Cuba. We kept peeking into the kitchen to see how they fried chicken so well…it’s really better than anything you will find in the States!

5. Best Places to Eat in Cuba

As Americans traveling through Cuba, we learned the best place to eat in Cuba is at home. And most hosts can arrange for you to have meals at your rental house or apartment. I highly recommend organizing this in advance. Who doesn’t want a personal chef preparing your breakfast, lunch, and dinner? This is also important as there are no large grocery stores in Cuba. Cubans still have the Libreta, a socialist food ration system, in place.

The markets will have dry goods, and some may sell chicken or pork when available, however, it was hard to find dairy products, fresh fruits, or vegetables. As a bonus, the food served at your casa particulares far exceeds what you will find at a government-run restaurant. In addition, you will get to practice your Spanish, and you can often have your host arrange transportation or book activities for you during each meal.

Furthermore, if you do plan to go out in Cuba, the hotel restaurants are often your best bet!

Meals are inexpensive in Cuba compared to the U.S. As Americans traveling in Cuba, we spent less than $5 (U.S. dollars) per person on breakfast at our accommodations. And this included fresh bread, coffee, eggs, ham, cheese, and a freshly squeezed juice or smoothie. Dinner was $10-15 (U.S. dollars) and often included chicken or fish, vegetables, rice, and dessert!

Dine out at a paladares. Privately-run restaurants are becoming more popular in Cuba. And will serve you much more than the meat, rice, and beans you may find at a government-run establishment. Once again, the entrepreneurial spirit shines through. We had some of the best meals at local, family-owned paladares throughout Cuba.

The pollo frito or fried chicken at one spot was the best I’ve ever eaten. In addition, $15 often bought a lobster tail dinner, which rivaled the Puerto Nuevo-style lobster we are used to on the West Coast!

Have a piña colada…and a daiquiri! There is nothing better on a hot day than to return from your hike or stroll through town and having an ice-cold piña colada to cool off. After a day of rock climbing, we often enjoyed one or two Cristals or Bucañeros, the local cervezas, at Raul’s farm.

From day to day, Raul also whipped up some of the tastiest piña coladas we’ve ever had. The blended cocktails and juices are truly made from the freshest ingredients! And if you did not know, Cuba is the home of the Daiquiri. Rumors are that Hemmingway helped perfect this concoction at his favorite watering hole, La Floridita!

Lunch at Raul’s Farm in Viñales, Cuba where we were treated to delicious barbacoa and cervezas after a long day of hiking and rock climbing!

6. Americans Traveling in Cuba: Exchanging U.S. Dollars

Cash is king when traveling as an American in Cuba. American credit cards and debit cards may not work in Cuba. Even if you did have a credit card set up in Mexico or Canada, good luck trying to find someplace to use it.

Plan in advance how much money you will need for each day. We budgeted $100 per person per day in Cuba after accommodations were paid for. Prices are much lower in Cuba than in the U.S., especially if you eat most of your meals at your accommodations, or outside of the major tourist areas!

Always check the current exchange rate for the Cuban Peso (CUP) with the American dollar. In addition, there is a service charge for exchanging American dollars, almost 13%!! We changed our cash at the airport in Havana when we incurred this service charge. Since Cuban pesos are not traded internationally, you cannot buy them outside of Cuba.

You can also exchange money at your hotel, a CADECA or Casa de Cambio in major cities. Keep in mind, you are also prohibited from bringing Cuban pesos outside of Cuba. Definitely buy your last souvenirs and exchange any remaining Cuban pesos for dollars (if you can) before you fly out!

Hiking through Raul’s Farm to Mogote del Valle, one of several rock climbing areas in Viñales, Cuba.

7. Rock Climbing In Cuba, What Americans can expect

Early into our Cuba trip planning, I began emailing Armando Menocal, co-author of the Cuba Climbing guidebook, and the man that helped put Cuba on the map for rock climbing. We were planning to donate rock climbing gear, along with gear to bolt new routes. Access to climbing equipment is rare in Cuba. There are no outdoor gear shops like an REI or rock climbing gyms as you might find in America.

What’s the rock like? The rock climbing in Cuba is on beautiful, yet jagged formations of limestone. And the climbing is mostly around the agricultural farms in the Viñales Valley. Even if you’re not a climber, this area is beautiful for hiking!

Traveling to Viñales Valley in Cuba to Rock Climb

The Viñales Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the geology in this part of the country, known as a karst landscape, is fascinating. You will find everything from hidden caverns with stalactites, to giant tufas and jungle-covered mogotes! The routes are well-bolted, and a 60-meter rope, slings, and a dozen quickdraws will do. A trad rack is definitely not necessary. However, a helmet, headlamps, sunscreen, and mosquito repellant are essential!

Plan on a 2-3 hour taxi ride to reach the town of Viñales, located in the Western part of Cuba in the Piñar del Rio province. And arrange accommodations beforehand as the town is very small. There are no large hotels nearby.

Once settled into your accommodation, you can strap on your backpack and enjoy a nice stroll through town. We picked up water for our Camelbaks at the grocery store before heading out to Raul’s Farm. Plan on an easy 30-minute walk along dirt roads, depending on where your accommodations are in town, to reach Raul’s farm. Remember Cuba is a hot, tropical destination, so be prepared for heat, and also afternoon thunderstorms!

The Cuba Climbing Guidebook gives you all the climbing beta for the area. Along with plenty of maps to make your way around. Raul and his staff that run the farm were incredibly accommodating, offering us snacks on our way to climb, and cervezas on the way back! Bring small bills, in Cuban pesos, to ensure you can buy your crew piña coladas to celebrate the day. Then lie back in one of Raul’s hammocks to catch the sunset over the Viñales Valley.

Inland from Havana in the town of Viñales, you’ll be surrounded by farmland. And it is not uncommon to see oxen pulling a cart down the street here!

8. Bringing Home a Cuban Cigar to America

Yes, as an American traveling to Cuba, you can bring that Cohiba back home! Cuban cigars are inexpensive and easily found throughout Cuba. Raul, the local farmer who provided meals as well as access to the best climbing in Cuba, hand-rolled his own and sold them, 2 for $1!! Quite the bargain.

In addition to Cuban cigars, you can also bring home rum on your trip back to the U.S. If you are not sure about a particular item, check first before packing it. A quick tip: Cuban cigars help keep the mosquitos at bay in the warm, rainy season. We would light several at our climbing base camp, or while hiking through the jungle!

9. Other Activities to Do While Traveling in Cuba

Touring Old Havana will easily take up a full day, maybe two! There are so many cool hotels, bars, and artwork. And just walking the malecón or being driven around in a vintage convertible is a great way to see Havana! If you have more time, visit the local Cuban beaches outside of Havana near Playas del Este where you can snorkel. And if you just want a nice beach and lots of caipirinhas, daiquiris, or piña coladas delivered to your palapa, Varadero is the spot!

Want even more of the colonial city culture? Head inland to Trinidad, another UNESCO World Heritage Site!

My fearless travel companion and I finally en route to Havana, Cuba!

Final Thoughts on Americans Traveling to Cuba

Somewhere in the Everglades in Florida, squished into the back of that Dodge Charger, I decided a blog post about Americans traveling to Cuba was in order. No, it was not due to the hectic start of our Cuban trip!

It was because I knew that these moments are precious. With jobs, kids, and all the other things that keep us busy, it’s not very often that we can rally our best friends and adventure buddies for a trip. And these travels also yield some of the greatest memories. They fill our late nights with tales of well-laid plans gone awry!

Below are more resources to help you plan your trip to Cuba:

For more photos and fun facts about our outdoor adventures, check out Top Rope Media’s Facebook and Instagram pages. Or check out some of our other travel blogs:

Until next time, ¡Hasta luego!

Meredith McConvill, Top Rope Media

The post Americans Traveling to Cuba appeared first on Top Rope Media.

Mammoth Road Trip: Route 395, Bishop, and Yosemite National Park

Meredith — Tue, 31 Jan 2023 14:04:07 +0000

Mammoth Road Trip for Summer or Wintertime Fun

With beautiful views of towering mountain peaks, a Mammoth road trip through the Eastern Sierras will have most passengers stoked for a big weekend of riding at Mammoth Mountain.

Along the way, you’ll find great campgrounds, hiking, and some of the best rock climbing in the world! In addition, you’ll pass Mt. Whitney, the tallest peak in the continental United States. More on how to apply for a permit to hike Whitney in a bit!

Haven’t packed up for a road trip lately? Pull up our road trip checklist to make sure you’ve got everything you need!

ROAD TRIP CHECKLIST

Places to Visit on Your Mammoth Road Trip

June Lake
Yosemite National Park
Mono Lake
Owens River Gorge
Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest
Mount Whitney

Before we dive in further, if you’re really interested in visiting Yosemite National Park, read our Yosemite Blog! In addition, keep in mind that access to Yosemite via Route 395/Tioga Pass is often closed from October through June or later due to snow.

What’s Included in this Mammoth Road Trip Guide

Whether you’ll be based in Mammoth Lakes, Bishop, or elsewhere, this guide will help you make the most of your trip. We’ll cover:

Camping and Accommodations
Skiing and Snowboarding
Mountain Biking, Gravel, and Road Cycling
Fishing
Hiking
Rock Climbing
Hot Springs
Food & Nightlife

Mammoth road trips along California’s 395 are one of our favorite ways to see the Eastern Sierras and enjoy both summer and winter activities.

1. Accommodations & Camping Options on Your Mammoth Road Trip

Best Accommodations for your Mammoth road trip

Both Mammoth Lakes and Bishop have a range of hotels, Airbnb’s, and camping options that suit every budget. On average, accommodations in Bishop or Lone Pine will be much cheaper than in Mammoth Lakes. There are quite a lot of budget options ranging from $60-150 a night. However, once you reach the town of Mammoth, you can expect to pay almost double for a hotel or Airbnb, but it’s worth it, especially in the wintertime!

Keep in mind, there is no parking on the streets in Mammoth Lakes between Nov 1-April 30th, so if you have a mountainside rental or hotel, you can walk to the slopes!

Our favorite places to stay on a Mammoth Road Trip to Mammoth Lakes include:

Austria Hof– Austrian-style ski chalet, 5-minute walk to the lifts at Canyon Lodge, great restaurant, bar, and jacuzzi
Mammoth Mountain Inn– ski-in/ski-out accommodations at Main Lodge
Tamarack Lodge– A classic lakeside retreat close to the lakes and cross-country ski trails
The Westin or Village Lodge– In the village with gondola access to the mountain
Alpenhof Lodge– In town, above the Clocktower Cellar Bar and Petra’s Bistro

The Mammoth Mountain Inn, Tamarack, and the Village Lodge can be booked through Mammoth Mountain lodging reservations. Each accommodation has a nice restaurant, bar, pool/jacuzzi (except for Tamarack Lodge), and great activities right from the doorstep. The Austria Hof is our favorite with easy access to both Canyon Lodge, and to get down into the village where you can access all the shops and other services. While Mammoth Mountain Inn seems perfect, nestled right at Main Lodge, you will feel isolated, especially during a storm when there’s only the lodge bar and restaurant available.

Top Camping Spots for your Mammoth road trip

We’re always surprised by the amount of RVs and sprinter vans parked in the lots at Mammoth Mountain, so we thought we’d give you a few places to camp on your Mammoth Road Trip! If you have an insulated camper van or RV, you can enjoy year-round camping throughout the area. However, if you’ll be road-tripping with just a tent, camping will be challenging in the winter months north of Bishop. Therefore, an Airbnb or hotel might be your best bet if you’re driving up to ski or snowboard at Mammoth Mountain or June Mountain! Here’s some of our favorite places to camp during a Mammoth road trip:

Mammoth Lakes Camping

First, a warning. You cannot camp or park your RV/van/sprinter overnight in any of the Mammoth Mountain parking lots in the wintertime. In addition, you cannot park on the streets from November 1st to April 30th.

So if you’re heading up to ski, check with Mammoth Mountain for accommodations or try the Mammoth Mountain RV Park & Campground where they offer year-round camping options.

If your Mammoth road trip will be in the summertime, or at least between May through October, Twin Lakes Campground and Lake Mary Campground are our favorites. Need a break from camp? A great place to check out nearby is the Tamarack Lodge for cocktails or dining!

Here you will find incredible views of the mountains, easy access to hiking and biking trails, lakes (very chilly ones) to swim in, and you’ll be at over 9,000ft! Here’s more info on camping in Mammoth Lakes.

June Lake Camping

June Lake is our second choice for camping. However, you’ll only find these campgrounds open May through October, or whenever the snow is cleared.

You will find several campgrounds located on June Lake, Gull Lake, and Silver Lake. Reversed Creek Campground and Gull Lake Campground are two of our favorites. They do not get booked as quickly as the June Lake campground, so both are good places to check out if everything else seems full. Plus, you can still walk or pedal into town from your campsite!

Bishop Camping

There are lots of campgrounds in the Bishop area, and staying here in the winter to camp is a little bit easier as you’re only at about 4,000ft so it will be warmer. You can find lots of dispersed camping in Pine Creek Canyon, Upper Rock Creek, in the Coyote Mountains, family-friendly accommodations at Bishop Park, and walk-in camping at Table Mountain Group Camp.

The Pleasant Valley Pit is also a favorite campsite for rock climbers exploring Owens River Gorge, Happy and Sad Boulders, or the Buttermilks!

If you want to camp by hot springs, Keoughs Hot Springs Resort, just south of Bishop, offers great camping spots along with easy access to showers and a pool fed by thermal waters!

Lee Vining Camping

The tiny town of Lee Vining borders Mono Lake and is at the Eastern entrance to Yosemite National Park. In addition, it is a very popular camp spot for those wishing to explore both areas plus Mammoth Lakes. From here you can also view the Mono Craters, the remnants of the great glaciers that carved out the Sierra Mountains!

The Lower Lee Vining Campground is located along Tioga Pass Road. However, it’s at 7,300 ft., so make sure to check the website to ensure it’s open before driving up. Depending on snow conditions, Tioga Pass Road is often closed until June, sometimes July!

Yosemite National Park Camping

Searching for camping in Yosemite National Park? Well, so is everyone else. To say that camping is extremely competitive within Yosemite National Park is an understatement. Check Recreation.gov to book a campsite well in advance of your road trip.

You can camp with your pup at most places, but keep in mind you cannot bring them onto the mountain at Mammoth or June.

Best Time of Year to Camp on a Mammoth Road Trip

Spring, summer, and fall are the best times of year to camp on a Mammoth road trip. When the fishing season begins in April, and then certainly in July and August, you will find less availability for campsites. If you choose not to make reservations in advance on Recreation.gov or ReserveCalifornia.com be prepped to find dispersed camping, or book a hotel or Airbnb.

If you want to visit when the trees change color, fall is gorgeous in the eastern Sierras! However, it will be chilly in the evenings and early mornings, so plan accordingly!

How to Prepare for Bears on Your Mammoth Road Trip

Another very important thing to keep in mind when in Mammoth is that this is bear country. Therefore, you must lock ALL scented items in your bearbox at the campsite. And even if you’re staying at a hotel or Airbnb in Mammoth, it’s wise not to leave trash outside, or any food in your car.

Besides food, this means toiletries, lip balm, gum, utensils, sunblock…basically, anything that might smell like food. The very last thing you want is to be woken up at 3am by a momma bear digging through your trash can, your cooler, or your tent with you still in it!!

Will you be dispersed camping? Well then buy a bear box or bear canisters at REI, or learn how to hang your food. Not only do bears sniff out your greasy camp stove but we’ve had all sorts of animals invade our camp. Marmots, deer, goats, chipmunks, squirrels, and raccoons! Some during broad daylight, and while we were sitting at the campsite!

2. Skiing and snowboarding on your Mammoth road trip

Mammoth Mountain is a huge ski resort with every type of terrain a skier or snowboarder could dream of. Plus, they get an abundance of snow and the Ikon Pass gets you unlimited access!

Looking for something smaller and less crowded? Locals favor June Mountain over Mammoth on the weekends as it’s also on the Ikon Pass. More options? The Badger Pass Ski Area is in Yosemite National Park, however, it’s on the western side of the Sierras.

If you’d like to explore the backcountry around Mammoth Lakes, check out our blog post on preparing for backcountry adventures to get tons of tips on books to read and courses to attend before heading out!

PREPPING FOR BACKCOUNTRY ADVENTURE TRAVEL

If you’re a snowboarder, accessing the backcountry in areas like Mammoth can be challenging, so you’ll need to go with a guide for the best experience.

3. GRAVEL, road cycling, and Mountain Biking at Mammoth

If you’re visiting during the summer months, the mountain biking here is epic!! In addition, the Mammoth Mountain Bike Park is world-class. Both on the mountain and in town you will be able to rent mountain bikes, helmets, and everything else you’d need for a day of riding the lift-accessed trails.

Not really into the downhill thing? Well, Mammoth Lakes, June Lake, and Bishop all have trails that are accessible without using ski lifts. In addition, both gravel and road cyclists will enjoy all the beautiful, yet almost deserted roads just off the 395. Our favorite big roads for climbing and of course sweeping descents are:

Whitney Portal Road (The road up to the start of the Mt. Whitney trailhead in Lone Pine, CA)
White Mountain Road (Leads to the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest east of Bishop, CA)
Horseshoe Meadows Road (Access to Horseshoe Meadows Campground at over 10,000ft near Lone Pine, CA)
Rock Creek Road (Try Upper and Lower Rock Creek, off the 395 Toms Place exit)
Movie Flat Road, Alabama Hills (dozens of movies were filmed here near Lone Pine, CA)

4. Fishing on Your Mammoth Road Trip

The Eastern Sierras are chock-full of streams and lakes where several species of trout, perch, and bass can be found. It’s also one of a few spots where you can find the elusive Golden Trout!

Be sure to purchase a fishing license and check the local regulations. Certain areas are off-limit, while others require the use of barbless hooks and artificial flies or lures.

Top Three Fishing Spots (and also just Beautiful Places to Visit!)

Lake Crowley

One of the most popular lakes for catching large trout is Lake Crowley. You can fish from the shore, rent kayaks or a boat and enjoy this manmade reservoir that’s teeming with trout!

Convict Lake

Touted as one of the most beautiful lakes in California, Convict Lake is easy to access and has Mount Morrison as a beautiful backdrop. Convict Lake gets its name from a famous shootout between a group of convicts and a posse of bounty hunters.

Today, visitors enjoy Convict Lake for camping, hiking, and, of course, fishing. You can catch big trout from the shore, by boat, canoe, or kayak. In addition, you can relax and simply paddle around on your SUP or float tube.

Owens River

The longest river in the Eastern Sierra and one of the best for trout fishing is the Owens River. The Upper Owens River is where most of the action is, with unusually large fish being pulled out year-round.

Fly fishing on the Owens River outside of Mammoth Lakes, CA.

5. Hiking & Trail Running near Mammoth

With low humidity and temperatures in the mid-70s, June-August is the best time to go hiking and trail running in the Mammoth area. But always be prepared for snow at high elevations.

Although the air is relatively cool, the high elevation and dry air can increase your risk of sunburn and dehydration. Therefore, be sure to bring sunblock and drink plenty of water!

best Hiking And Trail Runs on your mammoth road trip

Rainbow Falls via Devil’s Postpile

The Rainbow Falls Trail is 4.8 miles out and back hike that takes you past Devil’s Postpile. This area alone draws hundreds of visitors each day to walk across the rock formations or hexagonal ‘postpiles’.

The Rainbow Falls Trail is suitable for all runners, hikers, and dogs on leash are welcome. However, the trail will most likely be closed all winter as is the road to Devil’s Postpile.

Lundy Canyon Trail

Closer to Lee Vining, the Lundy Canyon Trail is a lightly trafficked 5.5 miles out and back trail. We recommend this trail if you’re traveling in the early Fall as you’ll see the leaves changing colors, wildflowers, waterfalls, and even a famed beaver dam. Dogs on leashes are welcome.

Mt. Whitney via the Mount Whitney Trail

The Mount Whitney Trail is a 21.9-mile strenuous hike that summits Mt. Whitney, the highest point in the lower 48. This being said, some might feel you need to be an experienced rock climber and have proper climbing gear. While there are technical climbing routes on Whitney, there is a 3rd class route that can be summited without climbing gear.

Mt. Whitney permits are required for those who plan to camp overnight and become available via lottery in February. Didn’t quite plan that far ahead? You can still do the hike, or others nearby up to gorgeous alpine lakes, you just cannot camp. Check in at the Lone Pine Ranger Station for last-minute openings for a Whitney Trail permit!

The John Muir Trail

Often another bucket list hike is the 211-mile John Muir Trail from Yosemite Valley to Mt. Whitney. The trail runs mainly in conjunction with the Pacific Crest Trail or most often called the PCT.

On the hike, you’ll pass through both the John Muir and Ansel Adams Wildernesses, Sequoia and Kings Canyon, and of course Yosemite National Park. Get all the details about permits and preparation on the PCT website!

High above the Valley floor, hiking and rock climbing in Tuolumne Meadows is another great option as it provides incredible views and fewer crowds.

6. Rock Climbing near Mammoth Lakes

When it comes to rock climbing near Mammoth, Yosemite National Park is not only the best in Sierras, it’s one of the best rock climbing destinations in the world! You could spend your whole life climbing here and not discover all that Yosemite has to offer.

However, there are also many places to go trad or sport climbing near Mammoth Lakes. From Pine Creek to Owens River Gorge to the imposing Mammoth Crest! There are several local guidebooks by Marty Lewis, with thousands of routes described in great detail. It also includes tons of pictures, diagrams, and maps of how to get to each climbing area.

Best Time Of Year To Climb

For rock climbers, the colder and drier the rock is, the better. This is because cold, dry weather produces more friction between your skin and the rock. Bishop tends to stay fairly cool and dry, so climbing is great from October through May. After May, head to higher elevations near Pine Creek Canyon, Mammoth Lakes or Tuolumne Meadows in Yosemite National Park.

Top Spots for Rock Climbing Near Mammoth Lakes

Tuolumne Meadows, Yosemite National Park

If you’re interested in climbing skip the crowded Yosemite Valley and head for Tuolumne Meadows. Here you’ll find fewer crowds, cooler temps, and a greater chance of scoring a campsite!

In addition, if you think Yosemite climbing is all about Half Dome and El Capitan, think again. Tuolumne Meadows has hundreds of both trad and sport routes, and dozens of boulder problems.

The classics in Tuolumne include Tenaya, Matthes Crest, and Cathedral Peak. We also love the roadside access of Stately Dome and Daft Dome. Plus you can swim in Tenaya Lake when you finish up!

The Buttermilks and Happy & Sad Boulders

These are some of the most famous bouldering spots in Bishop. The Buttermilks boast big quartz monzonite boulders with polished patina crimps as well as sharp edges.

Just twenty minutes away from the Buttermilks you can find the Happy & Sad Boulders, a formation of volcanic tablelands. Here you’ll find hundreds of world-class boulder routes.

Owens River Gorge & Pine Creek

According to Mountain Project, the Owens River Gorge is the most concentrated sport-climbing area. This makes it a great stop for sport climbers of all levels.

However, this area is often crowded in the Spring and Fall, and super hot in the summer. Therefore, you might want to head up in elevation to Pine Creek Canyon where you’ll find hundreds of routes that are both sport and trad climbing. Both areas are often climbable all year round, but summer temps can be close to 100 degrees in the Gorge!

Our group on the summit of Daft Dome with Fairview Dome in the background. Tuolumne Meadows, Yosemite National Park, CA.

7. Visiting Hot Springs on Your Mammoth Road Trip

One of our favorite stops while on a Mammoth road trip is visiting the hot springs along Route 395. Some of these geothermal pools are natural, they are small and often hidden, making it even more exciting when you arrive and can have one all to yourself!

Nothing beats a soak in the hot springs after a long day of hiking, climbing, or skiing at Mammoth Mountain!

Best Time Of Year For Hot Springs

Cold weather makes the hot springs feel more luxurious, so we recommend visiting in winter, fall, and spring. However, heavy snowfall might prevent you from getting there! In addition, many of the hot springs are clothing optional, so be prepared if you have little kids in tow!

Top Hot Springs to Visit on Your Mammoth Lakes Road Trip

Wild Willy’s, the Crab Cooker, and Hilltop Hot Springs

Close to the Mammoth Airport, Wild Willy’s Hot Springs and Hilltop Hot Springs are the easiest to find in the area. Mostly all can be seen on Google or Apple Maps. Be prepared to walk a bit down a dirt road, muddy or snow-covered path, or along a series of boardwalks to get out to each of the pools.

In addition, there’s no shelter from the sun and they are very rustic (think rock-like bathtub in a cow pasture). However, the incredible views of the Sierras and the stars coming out at sunset can’t be beaten!

Old Benton Hot Springs

The Old Benton Hot Springs is a private spot with a motel, thermal-fed hot tubs, and a historic mining town. We would not recommend traveling here unless you are heading east via Highway 120 and Highway 6. In addition, you have to be a motel guest to access the hot tubs.

Keough Hot Springs

Keough Hot Springs Resort is just off the 395 near Bishop. You’ll find an old pool house with two pools fed by the natural hot springs or you can head a bit down the road where the primitive pools lay. Keough’s also offers a snack stand, changing rooms, showers, and camping!

Travertine Hot Springs

If you have the time, Travertine Hot Springs is a great destination. These all-natural hot springs have a beautiful view, and there are several pools where you can relax and enjoy.

The Travertine Hot Springs is closer to Bridgeport, which is an hour north of Mammoth Lakes. However, it’s worth the trip if you are coming from or continuing north to Lake Tahoe!

The Travertine Hot Springs is also a great place to stop if you’re planning to visit Bodie State Historic Park. Bodie is an old gold mining town turned ghost town with still beautifully intact buildings that once housed 10,000 residents!

Mammoth Lakes at night, as seen from Wild Willy’s Hot Springs.

8. Food & Nightlife on your Mammoth Road Trip

Though we all love the great outdoors, no trip is complete without some great food and local craft brews. We enjoy preparing our own feast at the campsite, but sometimes we do head into town when we are out of food or too tired to cook! Here are some great options for every budget.

Best food and drinks in Mammoth Lakes:

Try the Village at Mammoth Lakes for a few different restaurants and bar options. We love Shelter Distilling for food and beverages aprés ski! The Clocktower Cellar and the Sierra Bar are also fun spots with good pub food! And then Mammoth Brewing Company is another classic.

With the fam? Try Mammoth Rock n’ Bowl!

Our hands-down favorite aprés ski bar is the Lincoln Bar at Canyon Lodge at Mammoth Mountain. Finish your last run of the day here on Friday or Saturday, grab a Mammoth Mocha, and be ready to dance or just bob along with the crowd as the DJ turns the music up!

Best Food & Drinks In Bishop:

No road trip to Mammoth is complete without a stop at the OG Schat’s Bakery in Bishop! And if you want a great sandwich or stocking up on road trip snacks, try Mahogany Smoked Meats!

Need a strong cocktail after a long day’s drive? Owen’s Valley Distilling Company is a cozy bar off the beaten path! Want a bigger, fancy meal? Try the Whiskey Creek Steakhouse.

Wishing You Safe & Happy Adventures in Mammoth

If you’ve never traveled along the 395 through Bishop to Mammoth Lakes, I hope this inspires you to add it to your adventure list! And if you’ve been a dozen times, I hope this guide gives you some new ideas.

Want more adventure tips and travel destinations? Check out some of our other travel blogs here:

To learn more about what we do on the regular, follow Top Rope Media’s adventures on Instagram, Facebook or Twitter.

Until next time, happy road-tripping!

– Meredith McConvill, Top Rope Media

The post Mammoth Road Trip: Route 395, Bishop, and Yosemite National Park appeared first on Top Rope Media.

Colorado Road Trip: National Parks and Monuments

Meredith — Thu, 01 Dec 2022 05:19:24 +0000

Ready for a Colorado Road Trip?

Well, first, a Colorado road trip isn’t just for skiers and snowboarders! Did you know there are four National parks, monuments, and dozens of forests and recreation areas worth visiting? So if you’ve only been to Boulder, Denver, Vail, or Breck, and only during the ski season, we have included lots of options for adventure in the summer or wintertime.

This road trip through Colorado can be started in the east near Denver, or in the west near Grand Junction or Durango, Colorado. We’ll take you on a journey through all the National Parks in the state.

In addition, we’ve included the best places to camp, bike, hike, and rock climb! We also have another blog, Colorado’s Best Little Mountain Towns that you can bookmark to read next!

Even in bad weather, there’s always fishing in many of Colorado’s lakes and streams!

Rocky Mountain National Park

As most people arrive to begin their Colorado road trip from Denver, Rocky Mountain National Park might be your first taste of the Colorado wilderness. In addition, Rocky Mountain National Park, or RMNP is close to Boulder, Golden, Fort Collins, and not far from the I-70. But once you’re out here, you’ll soon forget that I-70 corridor traffic and settle in for great backpacking, camping, and wildlife watching!

During your drive, you can make short stops to explore alpine meadows and lakes while catching a glimpse of bighorn sheep and elk! And if you want to stay a few days before moving on, the most popular campgrounds inside RMNP include:

However, if you drive a big rig, don’t expect to find campsites with full water or electricity hookups. And some places may not even accommodate large RVs, so plan ahead! As with most National Park campgrounds, booking most of these can be done through Recreation.gov.

Within the first few steps into Eldorado Canyon State Park, it’s easy to see why this is a rock climber’s paradise!

Boulder, Estes Park, Grand Lake, and Eldorado Canyon State Park

Want more posh accommodations than the campgrounds of Rocky Mountain National Park? Then set up basecamp for day trips into RMNP in Boulder or Estes Park to the east or Grand Lake to the west.

In addition, if you stay in Boulder, you can easily hike and climb the Flatirons. Or travel a few miles south of Boulder and visit Eldorado Canyon State Park! If you’ve never heard of Eldo, as the locals call it, it’s a rock-climbing, hiking, and fishing mecca. World-class rock climbing that is.

Pro tip: If you want even more solitude on your Colorado road trip, head up to Cameron Pass and you’ll enter State Forest State Park and the Never Summer Mountain Range! It’s just west of RMNP, and has 71,000 acres of forest, peaks, and trails which include Cameron Pass, Seven Utes, and the Nokhu Crags- often called ‘Little Alaska’!

Breckenridge, Leadville, and Browns Canyon National Monument

From Eldorado Canyon State Park you can head southwest and visit some of the classic mountain towns of Breckenridge and Leadville. However, keep in mind places like Vail and Keystone are towns built around the base of a ski resort. So if you’re seeking old mountain town charm, you will not find it there.

If you want to continue on a southern loop through Colorado, drive south to Browns Canyon National Monument and the headwaters of the Arkansas River. This is one of the best spots in Colorado for fishing and whitewater rafting! After you’ve had your fill, continue south to the Great Sand Dunes National Park!

If you’re road-tripping through Colorado, it’s good to have a car with 4-wheel or all-wheel drive!

Great Sand Dunes National Park

The Great Sand Dunes National Park is the place to try sandboarding! Yes, you can surf, sled, or ski the tallest dunes in America! The closest place to buy or rent boards is 25 miles away, so come prepped with something to ride!

The main Dunes Parking Area offers sledding access to a mix of softer, gentler slopes and a few higher ones. Castle Creek Picnic Area offers access to higher slopes, but make sure your car has 4WD before going. Keep in mind, although you may have a four-wheel drive or an overland vehicle to drive off-road to places like Medano Pass, there is no ATV use or off-roading on the sand dunes themselves.

Did you know the Great Sand Dunes are also a certified International Dark Sky Park? Therefore it’s the perfect spot to relax and settle in for star gazing! And if you’re interested in camping at Great Sand Dunes National Park on your road trip, Piñon Flats Campground is your best bet! And you may also camp along Medano Pass when it’s open.

Wandering on the dunes is fun, but sandboarding is even better!

Mesa Verde National Park, the Canyon of the Ancients and Hovenweep

As you continue to head southwest across Colorado towards Durango and Cortez, Mesa Verde National Park could be your next stop! Mesa Verde and its neighbors, the Canyon of the Ancients National Monument, and Hovenweep National Monument, all protect the cultural heritage of the Ancestral Pueblo people.

Throughout this region, the Pueblo built prosperous communities on the mesas and cliffs for over 700 years! Mesa Verde has been named a World Heritage site and it’s also an International Dark Sky Park.

At Mesa Verde, you will be able to see many of the cliff dwellings from various pullouts throughout the park. In addition, you can also visit the Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum. Here you will find the Petroglyph Point Trail—the only trail that leads to the petroglyphs!

As you drive into Mesa Verde, you’ll find the Morefield Campground just inside the park. However, from Morefield Campground it is over 15 miles to the first cliff dwellings. And you’ll gain quite a bit of elevation on a steep winding road to get there.

Step back in time and imagine what life might have been like as your peer into the cliff dwellings throughout Mesa Verde National Park.

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

From Mesa Verde, you can head north through Durango and some of the best little mountain towns like Silverton and Ouray to the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. From tectonic uplift, volcanic eruptions, and erosion by the Gunnison River, you will find the most interesting geology in Black Canyon.

In addition, the Black Canyon of the Gunnison is a top favorite for rock climbers. However, keep in mind that you will be on top of the plateau. Therefore climbers will need to rappel into the canyon and then be confident enough that they can climb back out!

If you want to camp at Black Canyon, you have 3 different campgrounds to choose from:

North Rim Campground
South Rim Campground
East Portal

The South Rim Campground in Black Canyon is the most popular and closest to the climbing as well as to the town of Montrose. However, if you’re driving through in the winter, the campgrounds, roads, and most facilities will be closed for the season.

Therefore, if you want to drive farther east, other great spots along the Gunnison include Curecanti National Recreation Area, Cimarron Canyon, Morrow Point Dam, and Blue Mesa.

Cimmaron Canyon in the Curecanti National Recreation Area is a great place to stop on your road trip across Colorado!

Colorado National Monument

Finally, if you are leaving Colorado for Moab and Utah’s National Parks, or coming into Grand Junction, or Montrose, drive through Colorado National Monument’s Rim Rock Drive! This is a gorgeous winding road of 23 miles through sandstone sculptures and red rock canyons. So whether you are hiking, cycling, rock climbing, or just passing through, Colorado National Monument offers beautiful views and is worth the detour.

Furthermore, cycling fans may find the sweeping rocky vistas look very familiar. This is where the final race from the 1985 movie American Flyers with Kevin Costner was filmed!

For those road-tripping through Colorado who want to camp at Colorado National Monument, Saddlehorn Campground is the only campground in the park. And it’s located high up on the plateau. There’s not much shade here, so you may want to avoid camping in the summer months.

Driving through Colorado National Monument feels like Southern Utah and the Grand Canyon all rolled into one!

Colorado Road Trip Final Thoughts

While we have been to Colorado over a dozen times, we still find new places to explore. And if you haven’t read our Colorado’s Best Mountain Towns blog, try that next! However, if you want to extend your Colorado road trip by adding on Wyoming, Utah, or California, check out some of our popular blogs in these states!

Thanks for reading, we hope this inspires you to plan your next epic road trip!

Meredith McConvill, Top Rope Media

The post Colorado Road Trip: National Parks and Monuments appeared first on Top Rope Media.

Camping in Yosemite National Park: Best Campgrounds, Hiking and Rock Climbing

Meredith — Tue, 12 Jul 2022 03:41:03 +0000

CAMPING IN YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK

With beautiful lush green valleys, wild rivers, and towering granite peaks, camping in Yosemite National Park offers so many places to explore! If you’re wondering what the current rules are for visiting the park, if you need a day pass, and how to find a campsite, we’ve got you covered!

In this blog, we’ll cover:

Highlights of Yosemite
The Park’s History and Sacred Origins
Getting to Yosemite National Park
Reservations and Day Passes
Where to Stay- Hotels, Lodging, Camping in Yosemite National Park
Rock Climbing in Yosemite National Park
Other Activities in Yosemite National Park
Spotting Bears and Other Wildlife

When you’re camping in Yosemite National Park, or even staying at one of the many park lodges, you’ll get the opportunity to see the park during quieter hours. This means more trails, wildlife, waterfalls, and spectacular views all to yourself!

In addition, Yosemite is the premier destination for rock climbers. So if you want early access to climbs on El Capitan, the Sentinel, or Half Dome, or just want to sit back and watch the magic happen, camping in Yosemite is the way to go.

Let’s dive into Yosemite National Park, and why it remains one of our favorite places on the planet!

1. Highlights of Yosemite

In addition to rock climbing and camping in Yosemite National Park, there are so many activities to enjoy. Here are just a few of the highlights that make this park so special:

The iconic view from ‘Tunnel View’
Hiking to the top of Yosemite Falls
The park’s history and its first inhabitants
Wildlife viewing in the meadows
Skiing and snowboarding (yes, there’s a ski resort in Yosemite!)
Swimming and kayaking in Tenaya Lake

You’ll need a car to get here, but once you arrive you can take the shuttle system or hike to almost all places we’ve included below. First, if you haven’t packed for a road trip lately, bookmark our road trip checklist to view later to ensure you’ve got everything!

ROAD TRIP CHECKLIST

2. The Park’s History and Sacred Origins

Yosemite National Park’s breathtaking landscapes have drawn visitors for centuries, but its origins stretch far beyond its designation as a national park in 1890. Long before the U.S. government claimed stewardship, the Ahwahneechee people, a branch of the Southern Sierra Miwok, thrived in the Yosemite Valley for thousands of years, living in harmony with the land.

Other tribes, including the Mono and Paiute, also had deep connections to the region, shaping its trails, meadows, and cultural history. Therefore, the park was not “founded” by settlers but taken through violent conflicts during which Indigenous people were forced from their homeland.

There are several places in the park where you can learn more about the indigenous history of Yosemite:

The Yosemite Museum
The Indian Village of the Ahwahnee
Mariposa Museum and History Center

Today, the descendants of these tribes continue to fight for recognition and the right to protect their ancestral lands, reminding us that Yosemite’s true history is one of resilience, not discovery.

3. Getting to Yosemite National Park

Yosemite via the eastern Sierras, Route 395, and Tioga Pass

To reach Yosemite National Park from the Eastern Sierras, head north on 395 from June Lake, Mammoth, or Bishop. Or head south on 395 from Reno or Lake Tahoe. If you haven’t read our Eastern Sierras Road Trip blog, take a peek at that first!

You’ll summit Tioga Pass, at almost 10,000ft, and enter the park through the Tioga Entrance. Keep in mind, Tioga Pass and Tioga Road both close by late October and do not open up until June or later when the snow has been cleared.

In addition, both the Tioga Entrance and Tioga Road, in general, are much quieter compared to Yosemite Valley, and you can easily reach the following spots:

Tuolumne Meadows
Tenaya Lake
Olmsted Point
Clouds Rest

Yosemite via the south entrance, Big Oak Flat, or Arch Rock entrances

Planning to visit Yosemite Valley where you’ll find Half Dome and El Capitan? Well, then your best bet is to enter at the South Entrance or on the west side of the park at either Big Oak Flat or Arch Rock entrances.

The west side of Yosemite and its entrances are open year-round, with road closures only when there’s snow. On this side of the park, you’ll enjoy El Capitan and Half Dome, plus:

Yosemite Falls
Glacier Point
Tunnel View
Mariposa Grove- home to Giant Sequoias!

Camping in Yosemite in a tent is more fun if you’re off the ground!

4. Yosemite National Park reservations and day passes

To visit Yosemite National Park, reservations are still needed during the summer, busy holiday weeks, and weekends between May through October. Do keep in mind that there are often long waits to drive in. If you are camping in Yosemite National Park and already have a reservation, or if you’ve booked a room at one of the lodges, you do not need a day pass to enter.

It’s best to check the Yosemite National Park main website a few weeks before your plan to arrive to see if you need to make a reservation or apply for a day pass.

5. where to stay: Hotels, Lodging and Camping in Yosemite National park

There are 12 campgrounds in Yosemite National Park, and all can be booked through Recreation.gov. The most popular ones are located in Yosemite Valley, including the infamous Camp 4.

Keep in mind, it is illegal to camp overnight in a pullout or day-use area within Yosemite National Park. Therefore if you don’t find a campsite, we’ve also included a few Yosemite lodging options below. In addition, there are also towns nearby including El Portal, Fish Camp, Bass Lake, and Oakhurst, the latter being the largest, with plenty of hotels, shops, and restaurants. However, driving to and from the park everyday can take hours. Especially if you want to hit all the highlights- Tuolumne Meadows, Yosemite Valley, and Glacier Point.

Get familiar with the shuttle system, and the distances/travel time between each part of the part you plan to visit. This can save you hours on trying to find parking, especially during the summer or over holiday weekends.

Campgrounds in Yosemite National Park

Wawona Campground– near South Entrance, 1 hour from Yosemite Valley
Bridalveil Creek Campground– near Glacier Point and Mariposa Grove, and Badger Pass Ski Area
Upper & Lower Pines Campgrounds– in Yosemite Valley near market, wifi, and lodges
Tamarack Flat, Hodgdon Meadow & Crane Flat Campgrounds– close to Big Oak Flat Entrance, 30mins from Yosemite Valley
Camp 4– known as the climber’s camp, there is a lottery to get a campsite here
White Wolf Campground– 2 miles off Tioga Road, near White Wolf Lodge and the Hetch Hetchy Reservoir
Yosemite Creek Campground– 5 miles off Tioga Road (remote)
Porcupine Flat Campground– primitive camping, over an hour to Yosemite Valley
Tuolumne Meadows Campground– best campground off Tioga Road, close to services, and Tuolumne River

All Yosemite National Park campgrounds can be reserved through Recreation.gov.

After a big hike or rock climbing, nothing feels as refreshing as jumping into the Tuolumne River! And there are lots of great natural pools for swimming adjacent to the Tuolumne Meadows Campground!

Hotels and lodging in Yosemite National Park

If camping in Yosemite National Park is not your thing, no worries, there are more posh accommodations. And there are even glamping options for those who want the camping experience, but not all the hassle! Here are a few options we love:

Ahwahnee Hotel– the crown jewel of National Park lodges. Worth visiting even if you don’t stay!
Yosemite Valley Lodge
Tuolumne Meadows Lodge
Housekeeping Camp
Curry Village– pre-set tents with beds, showers, restaurant, coffee
Wawona Hotel– gorgeous old hotel at South Entrance
White Wolf Lodge– a few miles off Tioga Road. Rustic cabins and glamping options!
Yosemite West– lots of hotel and lodging options and close to Badger Pass Ski Area

All hotels and lodges can be booked through several travel sites, including TravelYosemite.com

6. Rock Climbing in Yosemite National Park

When it comes to rock climbing, Yosemite National Park is the premier climbing destination in the U.S. and its become increasingly popular thanks to films like Free Solo and the Dawn Wall. You could spend your whole life climbing here and not discover all that the area has to offer.

We always skip the crowded Yosemite Valley and head for Tuolumne Meadows. Here you’ll find less crowded climbing on solid alpine granite, and a greater chance of scoring a campsite!

In addition, besides Half Dome and El Capitan, Yosemite National Park has hundreds of trad and sport routes, and dozens of boulder problems. Classic climbing areas in Tuolumne Meadows include the big triple crown of Tenaya Peak, Matthes Crest and Cathedral Peak, plus dozens of routes on Fairview Dome, Lembert Dome, Puppy Dome…Plus you can swim in the Tuolumne River or Tenaya Lake when you finish up!

Learn to Rock Climb in yosemite

If you want to try rock climbing in Yosemite for the first time, get your kids involved, or maybe you know how to climb but don’t have the gear, go with a guide or organize a group outing. Yosemite Mountaineering School and Guide Service, located in Curry Village, is one of the only guiding operations allowed to operate in the park.

High above the valley floor, rock climbing in Tuolumne Meadows provides incredible views and fewer crowds.

Nearby Climbing Areas Outside Yosemite National Park

Not ready for trad climbing in Yosemite and seeking more sport routes? Well with great weather and low humidity, the Bishop area is a climbing mecca year-round.

Other areas with good climbing and short approaches for beginners and families? We like Mammoth and June Lake. Read about all of these places in our Eastern Sierras blog!

Best Time Of Year To Climb or watch rock climbers

For rock climbers, the colder and drier the rock is, the better. This is because cold, dry weather produces more friction between your skin and the rock. However, you’ll be able to climb or observe climbers year-round in Yosemite Valley. And remember, Tuolumne Meadows access will be limited to May through October.

For the chance to catch many of the pro climbers that have called Yosemite Valley home, head to El Capitan Meadow. Remember to pack your binoculars or a scope to see climbers from around the world scaling El Capitan’s big walls from morning to night.

In addition, the views of El Capitan at night are spectacular as the climbers’ headlamps illuminate their path upwards. Or light up their bivy sacks as they settle in for the evening high up on the wall!

7. OTHER activities in Yosemite National Park

Not a climber? Well, there are still plenty of activities to try when you’re camping in Yosemite National Park:

Hike Yosemite Falls, a 7.2-mile round trip to the top of the falls
Rent a bike in Curry Village and ride around the Valley!
Take the paved trails to view Vernal, Bridalveil & Nevada Falls
Go skiing, tubing or snowboarding at Badger Pass Ski Area
Fish the Merced River in El Capitan Meadow or the Tuolumne River. Get a California fishing permit first!
Take in the view at Clouds Rest!
Swim, SUP, fish, or kayak on the gorgeous Tenaya Lake
Apply for a permit to hike Half Dome. This strenuous 14-16 mile round-trip hike gains 4,800 feet, the steepest, most dangerous section is the last 400ft. where you’ll be assisted by cables.

Backpacking through Yosemite National Park towards Mount Whitney is a popular starting point for those that want to experience the John Muir Trail or the Ansel Adams Wilderness!

8. Spotting Bears and Other Wildlife in Yosemite National Park

There is an abundance of wildlife in Yosemite National Park. From marmots to coyotes, big horn sheep to mule deer, and then of course the 300-500 black bears that call Yosemite home. The best time to spot wildlife is early mornings or at sunset in the meadows and during the quieter months in the park.

The place you don’t want to encourage wildlife to visit is your campsite. Therefore all campsites in Yosemite National Park are equipped with food lockers or bear boxes.

Tips on keeping a bear-free campsite and staying bear-aware:

Use the bear box! Put all items with a scent in the bear box. This includes soap, toothpaste, and sunscreen.
Do not leave cooking utensils, dishes, or stoves on your picnic table. It will guarantee unwanted visitors. And not just a black bear. Squirrels, chipmunks, marmots, and deer will raid your campsite for any items that look and smell like a treat!
Keep a safe distance from bears if you spot one. Especially if it’s a mother and her cubs. 300ft. is what’s recommended. Resist the urge to approach for a better photo.

camping in Yosemite national park: final thoughts

If you’ve never been camping in Yosemite National Park, add it to your adventure list! Want more adventure tips and travel destinations? Check out some of our other travel blogs here:

To learn more about what we do on the regular, follow Top Rope Media’s adventures on Instagram, Facebook or Twitter.

Until next time, happy camping!

– Meredith McConvill, Top Rope Media

The post Camping in Yosemite National Park: Best Campgrounds, Hiking and Rock Climbing appeared first on Top Rope Media.

Summer Backpacking Trip Ideas: Wind River Range, Wyoming

Meredith — Fri, 29 Apr 2022 19:37:00 +0000

Backpacking Adventures in the Wind River Range

Thinking about a camping trip to the Wind River Range? Are these must-haves for your backpacking adventure:

Hiking
Fishing
Wildlife sightings
No throngs of tourist traffic, or RV generators running into the wee hours of the morning!

Well, then the peaceful and scenic Wind River Range in Wyoming might be just the spot! Are you planning to drive there? If so, check out our road trip checklist with tips on what to pack for the best adventure travel!

ROAD TRIP PACKING CHECKLIST

The Wind River Range

The Wind River Range is a 100-mile long chain of towering granite peaks, pristine alpine lakes, and glacier-carved meadows. It remains a special place for those seeking adventure off the beaten path.

Whether you are fishing, camping, or rock climbing, we’ve included everything to help you prep for your summer backpacking adventure in the Winds, as they’re commonly called.

Photographer’s Point, Wind River Range

Highlights Of The Wind River Range

Cirque of the Towers– a stunning semi-circle of 12,000-foot peaks
Gannett Peak– the tallest mountain in Wyoming at 13,804 feet
Titcomb Basin– a picturesque valley surrounded by lakes and mountains
Skyline Scenic Drive- If you are not up for carrying a backpack and hiking some good miles into the wilderness, you can still get a taste of what the Wind River Range has to offer. The Skyline Scenic Drive takes you 17 miles outside of Pinedale, ending at the Elkhart Park Trailhead.
Alpine Rock Climbing– The Wind River Range has incredible trad climbing. You’ll find both single-pitch and multi-pitch climbing with a wide range of grades from 5.6 to 5.13c in an alpine environment.

Wildlife in the Winds

Wildlife sightings may include bighorn sheep, owls, bears, deer, elk, and eagles. In addition, the headwaters of the Green River, along with hundreds of lakes and streams, are teeming with rainbow and cutthroat trout!

Both black bears and grizzly bears can be found in the Wind River Range, and although sightings are rare, be prepared. Keep your campsite clean and store food properly (see our tips below).

Owls watching over our campsite in the Winds.

Getting There: Access to the Wind River range

If you are flying into the area, the closest major airports to the Wind River Range are found in Jackson, Wyoming, or Salt Lake City, Utah. From Jackson, the drive is about 3 hours. From Salt Lake City, the drive to the Winds is closer to 5.

Access to the Wind River Range from the South or West

If you’re coming from places like Utah’s National Parks, Idaho, Grand Teton National Park, or Yellowstone, you will most likely visit the West side of Wind River Range. To hike in, you’ll use either the Big Sandy trailhead or the Elkhart Park trailhead.

The Big Sandy Trail is the southernmost trail that leads into the Wind River Range and provides access to the Cirque of the Towers, Deep Lake, Black Joe Lake, and Big Sandy Lake. Located 54 miles south of Pinedale, you will need to drive on a mix of paved and dirt roads to reach the trailhead.

Driving to the Big Sandy Trailhead is not quite suitable for large RVs. In addition, flash floods and summer thunderstorms can cause road closures, so always check the weather before departing.

However, the Elkhart Park Trailhead is at the end of Skyline Scenic Drive, a paved 17-mile road that starts near Pinedale. This trail provides access to Gannett Peak and the Titcomb Basin. And is much easier to manage with a large campervan van or RV.

Pinedale is the closest ‘big’ town and the best place to stock up if you’re coming from points North and West. The town is small but filled with shops, restaurants, and plenty of accommodations.

Farson is another place to stop for gas, food, or last-minute items. However, Farson is not a town, just a crossroads. And the last time you really get cell service!

Access to the Wind River Range from the East

If you’re coming from Colorado or points East, you’ll head towards Lander, Wyoming. Similar to Pinedale, there are plenty of shops, restaurants, and places to stay. However, Lander is more your quintessential mountain town. And Lander was voted one of the best outdoor towns in America!

In Lander, there’s easy access to Sinks Canyon State Park, Popo Agie Falls Trail, Pete’s Lake Trail, and several campgrounds. Other towns nearby include Hudson, where they’re hosting this year’s overlanding and van life gathering, the Wind River Rally!

Fly fishing for dinner on the Green River.

Camping and Living the Van Life in the Wind River Range

There are a few campgrounds on both the East and West sides of the Wind River Range. However, most campers prefer to backpack into the Winds and select a spot. Here there are no designated campsites, no permits needed, and no services. It’s all wilderness!

However, if backpacking is not your thing, it is possible to camp in a more traditional campground and do day hikes into different areas. Below we’ve featured our favorite campground, Big Sandy.

Big Sandy Campground

Big Sandy Campground is one of the most popular campgrounds for accessing the Wind River Range. There are no reservations or permits needed. Therefore, all campsites are on a first-come, first-served basis. However, access to this area is very limited due to snow and road conditions.

To get to Big Sandy Campground, you will drive about 40 miles on mostly dirt and washboard terrain. That being said, the drive to Big Sandy Campground is not quite suitable for large campervans and RVs.

You will find 10 sites total in Big Sandy Campground, a few of which have access to stock pens if you’re traveling with horses. There’s also a large dirt lot for backpackers, as the Big Sandy Trailhead starts at the parking lot.

If you had a campervan or small RV, you could certainly park in the lot and stay overnight. There is also a compost toilet in the parking lot. And pens for stock animals.

As Big Sandy is a primitive campground, you will not find the following:

Running water. Be prepared to filter your water from the lakes and streams
Cell service
Trash cans or dumpsters. You must pack out all of your trash!
Bear boxes. Use proper food storage techniques. More on this below.

Big Sandy Campground is typically open between the end of June through September.

You can do day hikes into the Winds, carry a larger pack and camp a few nights, or work with a guide service that can haul in your gear!

Should You Hire a Guide to Backpack or Hike the Winds in Wyoming

If you want to try backpacking in the Wind River Range but are not sure how to get started, think about hiring a guide. Or book your trip through an outfitter. This will ensure you are well-prepared for your backcountry adventure.

In addition, they can take care of most of the heavy lifting and even load your packs on horseback for the hike! This means you can do your hike into the Winds with a light daypack! And when your hike is over 8-10 miles, you will most certainly appreciate it!

Many guiding services provide everything from tents and meals, to round-trip transportation from Jackson, Wyoming. Highly recommended outfitters include:

Big Sandy Lodge: Outfitter and Cabins

Big Sandy Lodge is our favorite outfitter. They have 10 cabins, a lodge for meals, shared bathrooms and showers, and wranglers that can haul your gear in on horseback.

Big Sandy Lodge is family-owned and operated, and they really go the extra mile to make you feel welcome. And even if you are not booking a cabin, you can still join other guests in the warm, cozy lodge for breakfast or dinner.

Lastly, the Big Sandy Lodge is about a mile from the Big Sandy Campground and Trailhead.

Planning to rock climb in the Wind River Range? Make sure you have a full trad rack and everything ready for big wall alpine climbing!

More Tips For Your Wind River Adventure

Map Reading:

Know how to use a compass and read a topographic map, especially if you will not be hiring a guide. Trails are not well-marked and most see very light traffic throughout the summer. We also picked up the Falcon Guide: Hiking Wyoming’s Wind River Range!

Are you a climber? Well, then you might want to check out the Falcon Guide: Climbing and Hiking in the Wind River Range.

Wind River Camping Locations and Fees:

There are no entrance fees at the Winds, however, there are campground fees at the designated campgrounds. You can also hike a few miles into the Winds and set up camp without paying any fees. Then you can take on a bigger effort like hiking all the way to Deep Lake, Black Joe Lake, or the Cirque of the Towers.

Remember, camps should be set up 200 feet from lakes or streams, and 100 feet from the road or trail.

The view from Big Sandy Lodge, just adjacent to the Big Sandy Trail where you can begin your hike in!

Wyoming Wind River Weather:

The best time to visit the Wind Rivers is July through mid-September. This way all trails should be clear of snow. And, the later you go, you can avoid the dreaded mosquitos.

However, keep in mind chilly nights and thunderstorms are common above 9,000 feet in the summer. And snowfall can also occur year-round. Always be prepared. We had 4 days of rain and temperatures in the low 40s in the middle of August! Even though the weather report called for 60s and sunny!

Therefore, bring good, waterproof rain gear that you can hike in for cold and rainy weather. And check the latest conditions before your departure.

Hiking preparedness:

For the best experience in the Winds, make sure you are comfortable carrying a mid-sized pack and hiking several miles a day. And, hiking at elevations over 10,000ft.

Does a 40-pound pack seem like too much? Then reach out to an outfitter or guide service like the Big Sandy Lodge to reserve horses and wranglers to carry your gear in!

As an example, our hike along the Big Sandy Trail to Black Joe Lake was 8.5 miles, and 2,000ft. of climbing. And, the majority of the elevation gain was in the last 3 miles. We got an early start and are in good shape, but it still took us over 4 hours to hike 8.5 miles!

Don’t forget to break in your hiking shoes well before your trip. Remember, this is a remote area. And, access to shops that sell camping equipment, as well as medical services, are quite far away.

Before you start down the trailhead, make sure you’ve done a few hikes in your shoes and carried a pack of the same weight you’ll be bringing in. Not comfortable carrying a big pack? Hire a guide to bring your gear in!

Packing for Backcountry Travel:

Learn how to pack a backpack! In addition, determine what essentials you’ll need based on your type of trip. Don’t skimp on the rain gear or the food! We’ve also pulled together a list of what travel essentials to pack for your best outdoor adventure.

Water:

There is easy access to water from lakes and streams, however, you will need to purify the water by boiling, filtering, or using chemical tablets. Outdoor Gear Lab reviewed some of the best water filters on the market and almost all are available on Amazon.

We use Life Straw and had no issues, but we did have to set up quite a large system to accommodate 5 people and 3 dogs! And, walking back and forth to the lake to fill your water bladder and/or buckets is definitely a daily chore.

Altitude:

The Wind River Range is above 9,000 feet. Therefore, make sure to spend a day or two acclimating to higher altitudes at the trailhead campgrounds. Again, this is why we love the Big Sandy Lodge. A day or two at the cabins and you’ll be ready!

The quiet mountain surroundings in the Winds are filled with wildlife. If you’re lucky you may see deer, elk, marmots, eagles, moose, and bears!

Bear Safety and Food Storage:

Learn how to tie up your food or bring secure food canisters to keep the critters out! There are no bearproof food storage boxes located in the Winds.

So, purchasing a few bearproof canisters, dry bags, and smell-proof bags that you can travel with is a great idea. In addition, we pack bear spray, even traveling with a 70-pound hound dog. Keep it on you and know how to use it.

Dry bags like Osprey’s 20L Ultralight Dry Sack and scent-proof bags like OPSAK and Smelly Proof are very helpful! Plan to tie up everything from toiletries to dog food.

Yes, it’s a daily chore. Well, sometimes a 3x a day chore! But, after each meal, you need to pack up your food, haul it to the tree you have your anchor set up on, and then raise it up in the air.

We recommend either buying a hanging food storage bag system or creating your own. And practice hanging your food before you hike into the Wind River Range. Here’s a good video that demonstrates the PCT bear bagging method.

Tips on keeping a bear-free campsite and staying bear-aware:

Use a bear canister or hang your food in scent-proof bags! Put all items with a scent in the bear canister or smell-proof dry bags. This includes soaps, lotions, sunscreen, and even water bottles.
Do not leave cooking utensils, dishes, or stoves out. It will guarantee unwanted visitors. And not just a large bear. Squirrels, chipmunks, marmots, and deer will raid your campsite for any items that look and smell like a treat!
If cleaning fishing or cooking over a campfire, remove all clothes that smell and wear something scent-free to sleep in.
Carry bear spray at all times. Especially when hiking in more remote locations of the Wind River Range. And, read the NPS Guidelines on how to use bear spray effectively.
Keep a safe distance from bears if you spot one. Especially if it’s a mother and her cubs. 300 feet is what’s recommended. Resist the urge to approach for a better photo.

Need more tips on food storage and bear safety? Here are the U.S. Forest Service food storage basics.

Interested in swimming while in the Winds? Be prepared for very cold temps! Our swim in Black Joe Lake lasted about 5 minutes!

Bathrooms:

Not often a topic you want to discuss, but you need a bathroom plan as there are no compost toilets or any facilities once you leave the campground or cabins. The best practice is to Leave No Trace and pack out all human and dog waste during your time in the Winds.

How to do this? We set up a private area outside of camp that served as our camp ‘bathroom’. You can purchase a portable camp toilet that comes with everything you need to feel a bit more comfortable.

If you are having horses haul in your gear, this is a nice option. Also, pack a pop-up changing tent to make it even more comfortable. You will thank me when it’s raining.

Bugs:

Mosquitos and other bugs are plentiful in the summer months. So, make sure to pick up bug spray before you drive or fly up. You may luck out on mosquitos if you hike in towards the end of August or the beginning of September. But, you could also get snow!

Fishing and Hunting in the Winds:

A valid license from the Wyoming Game and Fish Department is required for fishing or hunting in the Wind River Range. And, flyfishing is the most common form of fishing in the area.

Many of the lakes and streams in the Winds will have a number of different species of trout. From brown, rainbow, and cutthroat, to brook and lake trout. Again, make sure you have extra flies, lines, and everything else you need before you leave civilization.

Beneath the surface, these mountain streams are filled with rainbow, cutthroat, and brown trout!

Campfires:

There are campfires permitted in certain areas of the Winds. However, check the latest fire regulations before departing. In hot, dry summers, expect to not be allowed to light a fire in the Wind River Range. So if you were planning to cook your meals on an open fire, bring the Jetboil and if horse-packing in, the camp stove.

Leave No Trace:

Be respectful of wild places and ensure that whatever your pack in you must carry out. Learn more about Leave No Trace and how you can help!

More Adventure Travel Tips

There’s definitely a lot to think about when planning a backpacking trip to the Winds! And it’s such a different type of trip than visiting Yellowstone or the Tetons. Especially if you like to be off the beaten path.

We hope this gets you excited about traveling through Wyoming this summer, and if you have more questions about how we prepared, contact us!

Looking for more travel ideas for fun destinations?

TOP 8 SUMMER ACTIVITIES IN SAN DIEGO

To learn more about what we do on the regular, follow Top Rope Media’s adventures on Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter.

Until next time, happy adventuring!

– Meredith McConvill

The post Summer Backpacking Trip Ideas: Wind River Range, Wyoming appeared first on Top Rope Media.

Zion National Park: Camping and Adventure in Southern Utah

Meredith — Sun, 02 Jan 2022 22:09:34 +0000

Zion National Park: camping and adventure

Is hiking Angel’s Landing or the Narrows in Zion National Park on your bucket list? What about camping at Watchman Campground? Well we’ve pulled together our Zion travel tips if you’re feeling like a road trip to Utah!

exploring zion national park

Utah’s National Parks can feel so remote and tranquil when you actually take the time to enjoy them. Therefore, if you are rushing through Zion National Park, you will feel exactly that way.

Zion is one of the most visited National Parks in America. However, only a small percentage of visitors ever leave the pavement! So, we’ve got tips to not only get you off the pavement but enjoy Zion at a relaxed pace away from the crowds!

When you leave the pavement in Zion National Park and hike up, even just a for a mile or two, you’ll be rewarded with incredible views!

highlights of zion national park

Here are the top things to see and do while you are visiting Zion National Park. Even if you only have 1-2 days, or didn’t quite pack the right gear, there are still plenty of adventures that await!

1. Hike the Narrows

The Narrows is a sandstone canyon tucked in the far eastern end of Zion National Park. With walls as high as 6,000ft, just exploring the first few turns through the canyon is special. The canyon was carved by the Virgin River, and if you plan to hike the Narrows, you’ll spend much of the time actually in the river!

However, there is a paved section, the Riverside Walk, that you can walk along for about 30 minutes before you have to get into the water. Visit the NPS.gov website to learn more about the Narrows, and determine if a permit is required for the type of hike you plan to do.

If you begin at the bottom of the Narrows, at the Temple of Sinawava, you will not need a permit. However, you may need to rent gear like trekking poles, neoprene socks or booties, and hiking boots, and Zion Outfitter is your best bet for rentals!

2. take in the View, and the Wildlife

Gaze up at the massive sandstone cliffs, with colors ranging from deep reds to coral to brilliant white! Do you love geology? Well, the geological history found within these sedimentary rock layers is also what makes Zion so special.

More interested in wildlife than park geology? Well here’s just a few of the animals you’ll find in Zion:

mule deer
big horn sheep
ringtail cats
coyotes

Love bird-watching? Zion is a birder’s paradise! Get up early and find a good spot to watch as the park wakes up. In addition, the California Condor has been reintroduced into Zion!

3. Hike Angel’s Landing or the watchman trail

Angel’s Landing

Perched high above the valley floor, Angels Landing lives up to its name! This hike is not for those with a fear of heights or if you’re traveling with small children.

If you plan to hike up to Angel’s Landing, beginning in 2022 you’ll need to apply for a permit so get on it early! And, be prepared for 2.4 miles, 5 miles round-trip. Your terrain will consist of steep, exposed rocky sections and the infamous switchbacks of Walter’s Wiggles! You’ll gain 1,500ft of elevation to top out around 5,790 feet.

The last 1/4 mile is very steep, exposed, and can be icy or covered in snow! Plan on 3-6 hours round trip. It took us 4 hours to hike Angels Landing and back, with a stop at the top for photos! Click over to the NPS.gov site to apply for a permit and get more info.

Watchman trail

If Angel’s Landing seems like it might be too much of a challenge, start smaller with the Watchman Trail. This 3.1 mile out and back trail departs right from the Visitor’s Center! The Watchman climbs up gently gaining about 650 feet before you reach the Mesa Loop.

In addition, the Watchman Trail will give you a great view across Zion to West Temple and of course, the Watchman looming overhead! Please note, the Watchman Trail does not take you to the top of the Watchman. You’ll need rock climbing gear if you want to climb to the summit! More on rock climbing in Zion next…

Get up early, and on a weekday, to hike Angel’s Landing! No special gear is needed, just good fitness and some bravery!

4. go rock climbing

The rock climbing in and around Zion National Park is mainly sandstone, which is fragile, and easily eroded. So, how is this possible that there is world-class climbing here?

Well, the sandstone is characterized by long, consistent joints or fractures which form cracks. Therefore, you can place trad gear into these crack formations to protect you as you climb. In Zion you will find more traditional (trad) climbing than sport (bolted, anchored) climbing. And, Super Topo has a great Zion climbing guidebook you can pick up, or check out Mountain Project.

Zion is also world famous among the ranks of big wall aid climbing. And, it offers some of the hardest multi-pitch climbing in the country!

Looking to get an easy start rock climbing in Zion? See below about hiring a guide. Or, check out the Practice Cliffs. Other climbing areas that are easier to reach from the road include Kung Fu Theater!

5. go canyoneering

Canyoneering involves more than rock climbing. Typically you’ll spend a day scrambling, rappelling, wading, or swimming through canyons!

And the best canyoneering adventure in Zion? The Subway! First, you begin with a drive to the top of the canyon. Ditch a car there and leave a car at the end of the hike where you will come out. Then, begin your hike down into the canyon.

Once deep into the canyon, you’ll be hiking in and out of the North Fork of the Virgin River. Often swimming across narrow canyon pools! What will you need to experience the Subway in Zion?

a wilderness permit
climbing rope
harness
helmet
good hiking shoes and warm socks that can get wet but dry easily
belay and/or rappel devices
waterproof gear or drysuit if it is cold
7-9+ hours
trained partner or a guide to help you navigate the way down successfully

And at the end of a long day hiking, you emerge finally through a subway-like tunnel. We can’t stress enough how much having a guide or someone with canyoneering experience and good navigation skills will come in handy!

6. mountain biking near zion national park

Keep in mind that mountain biking within Utah’s National Parks is often not allowed. You can ride on the road within the park, but not on trails. And, this is often the best way to get around if you don’t want to be stuck in traffic or on the shuttle!

However, Zion National Park does have some of the best mountain biking just outside its boundaries around St. George and Hurricane.

Top 3 Mountain Bike Rides Near Zion National Park and St. George:

Jem Trail: A good loop for beginners and intermediate riders.
Gooseberry Mesa: Great for intermediate and advanced riders.
The Whole Guacamole: One of the most challenging trails we’ve ridden near Zion!

mountain bike rentals and gear

Need gear or want to rent a mountain bike for a day or two? Check out Red Rock Bicycle Co! Located in St. George, this is the best shop for both bike rentals and gear. In addition, the staff are locals and can not only give you tips on where to ride, and where to grab food and be after!

Mountain biking outside of Zion National Park on Gooseberry Mesa.

flash floods and other things to keep in mind on your visit to zion

Before we go on, we want to ensure you realize the risks associated with the activities above, especially as it pertains to flash flooding. Of course, mountain biking, rock climbing, and canyoneering are inherently dangerous. However, Zion in particular is known for flash floods that can turn a casual hike into a catastrophe within minutes.

It’s important to check the weather before you get started, and during your hike or climb if possible. Watch for clouds, keep those headphones out of your ears, and pay attention to any warning signs- rising water, change in water color, increase in debris, or stream flow.

Know which areas have the potential to flood and have a plan B in case they do. Do not attempt to cross a river or stream bed that is flooded. Even 6 inches of fast-moving water can knock you off your feet!

The Zion National Park website and any outfitter you are working with can provide you with other things to look for, and more resources in case the weather does not cooperate. One of the things on our packing list and gifts we buy for outdoor lovers is always some way to reach out for help.

Your fully-charged cellphone is great, but plan on not having much service in the park. Therefore emergency messaging tools like the Garmin InReach, Spot, Rescue Me, or some type of personal locator beacon is a great investment if you plan to spend time off the grid.

Best time to visit Zion National Park

When is the best time of year to visit Utah’s Zion National Park? In the Spring or Fall. Even the Winter for fewer crowds.

Summer in southern Utah can bring temperatures of over 100 degrees! Therefore, always check the weather before rolling out. You could easily find snow, ice and freezing temps at higher elevations, especially if hiking Angel’s Landing before noon.

HOW TO GET TO ZION NATIONAL PARK

Zion National Park is in the southern part of Utah. Therefore, you might be driving in from Las Vegas. Or flying into Salt Lake City, renting a car, and driving south.

If you’re coming in from Las Vegas, there are plenty of hotel options near the airport, and rental cars are quite cheap! You could also drive from Las Vegas through the Virgin River Gorge and into St. George. Here you can stock up on all your travel essentials before heading into the park.

What to pack for a Zion National Park adventure

For Zion National Park, the temperature can range quite widely. It can be below freezing at night, and rise into the 90s during the day. Even in the summer!

Therefore, pack lots of layers! Good hiking boots. Rain gear or a waterproof jacket and pants. Wool socks! Need a packing list? Check out our Adventure Camping Packing List! We even have a downloadable PDF you can print out and tape to your closet door.

We opt for camping whenever possible. Remember to pack layers and some wine 🙂 as it cools off at higher elevations, even in the summertime.

Campgrounds and Accommodations

Camping inside the park

Book your campsites in Zion National Park through Recreation.gov at either South Campground or Watchman’s. Both are located right inside the southern park entrance. And, within walking distance to the town of Springdale.

Again, bring a bike to get around the park, this way you’ll avoid crowds, get into the market for supplies, and still access areas like Emerald Pools and Angels Landing even if the park road closes to vehicular traffic.

Springdale

The gateway to Zion National Park from the west is through Springdale. There are plenty of hotels and motels in Springdale, and if you bring a bike you can ride into the park within minutes! Remember to bring bike locks if you plan to ride then hike. We did this for Angel’s Landing and it worked out quite well as the main park road had closed and the shuttle was not running at the time.

From Springdale, Cedar Breaks National Monument, Brian Head Resort are also great day trips, along with Kolob Canyon.

Kanab

A hidden gem in southern Utah, Kanab is a classic western town with access to Zion National Park (eastern entrance), Capitol Reef National Monument, and Bryce Canyon National Park.

Keep in mind if you’re driving to Zion, the Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel may be closed to vehicular traffic at certain times during the day. For camping nearby we love Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park, especially if surfing the sand dunes is on your bucket list!

LIVING THE VAN LIFE in Utah

Are you planning to camp and looking for that #vanlife? Well, then rent a sweet ride for you and your favorite adventure buddies. Here are a few companies to check out:

things to do near zion

Want some other things to do near Zion National Park? Here are a few options:

Rock climbing in the Virgin River Gorge
Hiking, biking, and rock climbing in Snow Canyon State Park
Mountain biking around St. George and Hurricane
Cedar Breaks National Monument– Check out the Spectra Points and Ramparts Overlook Trail in Cedar Breaks.
Visit Kolob Canyons, a northern extension of Zion National Park

Planning to rock climb in Zion? Well, it requires A LOT of gear. And not only climbing gear, but everything we need in case of an emergency while 1,000 feet off the ground.

guides, guidebooks, and gear for zion

If you’re interested in hiring a guide or renting gear to explore deeper into Zion National Park, there are a few outfitters that can help:

Going it alone? We love Falcon Guide Books for exploring all of Utah’s National Parks. Whether hiking, rock climbing, or mountain biking, we carry a Falcon Guide in our pack! For more Zion National Park area maps, check out:

Camping Equipment

Already landed and in the area and forgot some essential travel items at home? Here are a few places on your way to Zion where you can find hiking, camping, mountain biking, or rock climbing gear:

Backcountry.com has its headquarters in Park City but there’s also a distribution center and a great gear shop in Salt Lake City near the airport. Just order online and pick up in-store when you land!
REI is where you can buy or rent gear and they have 2 locations in the Las Vegas area, 2 in Salt Lake City.
Black Diamond is our go-to for all skiing and rock climbing needs and has both a headquarters and a company store in Salt Lake City.
The Desert Rat in St. George has everything you could possibly need for hiking, camping, and climbing.

Remember to Take It Slow

We know time is important, and you might have to be back at your desk come Monday. But, take a few days to soak up the natural wonders in Zion. And keep in mind, it’s not often the destination, but the journey that is most memorable.

Want more adventure tips and travel destinations? Check out some of our other travel blogs here:

Until next time, follow Top Rope Media’s daily wanderings on Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter.

Happy adventuring!

– Meredith McConvill

The post Zion National Park: Camping and Adventure in Southern Utah appeared first on Top Rope Media.

Joshua Tree National Park Road Trip

Meredith — Wed, 07 Apr 2021 15:25:24 +0000

Planning a road trip to Joshua Tree National Park?

Joshua Tree’s high desert wonderland of rocks will offer you a chance to escape from the everyday. This Joshua Tree travel guide will give you lots of tips for spending time in nature and off-the-grid!

Where is Joshua Tree National Park

Located in Southern California. Joshua Tree National Park is about 2.5 hours east of LA and about an hour north of Palm Springs. At 4,200ft, the park is home to coyotes, bighorn sheep, black-tailed jackrabbits, and of course the infamous Joshua tree. In addition to the wildlife, J Tree, as it’s commonly called, is the perfect little road trip destination to get off the beaten path with family or friends!

What is a Joshua Tree?

As a member of the Yucca family, the Joshua tree’s spikey stature can only be found in the Mojave Desert ecosystem. Where is that? Well, the Mojave desert covers parts of California, Nevada, Utah, and Arizona. In addition, the Joshua trees can only be seen between 2,000 to 6,000ft of elevation. Although the Mojave desert is vast, you’ll only notice the trees begin to appear as you climb above 2,000 feet.

Joshua trees also bloom in Springtime, along with millions of other wildflowers in the park. Therefore, Joshua Tree National Park is a very popular destination for Spring Break travelers.

Lastly, Joshua trees provide shelter for lizards, birds, and other animals to escape the sun-baked terrain, so they play an important role in the park’s ecosystem.

What to expect at Joshua Tree National Park

What you will not find:

Running water
Cell service (unless you read on to learn about our secret spots!)
Wifi
Flush toilets
Shade
Power
Dogs on trails
Mountain biking

What you will see/hear/experience:

Coyotes
Rattlesnakes
Rock climbers
Stars
Cool desert nights
Instagrammable scenes around every corner!

So if you’re already convinced JTree is where you want to go, download our Road Trip Packing Checklist! However, for those of you that want more information about the park, let’s dive more into our Joshua Tree travel guide!

Driving to Joshua Tree National Park

Park Entrances

If you are flying in, the most popular towns to fly then drive to Joshua Tree from would be San Diego, Palm Springs, or Los Angeles. When driving from these spots to the park, the most common entrances are often through the north or west side. You will enter through the town of either Joshua Tree – the West Entrance, or 29 Palms – the North Entrance to the park. However, there are a few other roads that come into the park. These less visited entrances include:

Cottonwood- At the south end of the park near Cottonwood Campground and Visitor Center
Black Rock- At the west side of the park, where you’ll find both a campground and visitor center
Indian Cove- Located on the north side of the park and home to the Indian Cove Campground

Driving in Joshua Tree

It’s good to note that all the main roads in the park are paved. Therefore can you drive in with your Class A Motorhome, RV, camper van, trailer, bicycle, or motorcycle and enjoy all the park has to offer. That being said, there are a few dirt roads within Joshua Tree National Park. You’ll find these inside a few of the campgrounds, and near some of the major trail entrances.

Looking to rent a camper van for your trip? We love Outdoorsy.com. In fact, if you’re considering renting one for your trip, here’s a $50 credit to get you started!

Pro tip: if you’re interested in rock climbing, you’ll want to drive into the park at the West or North Entrance to be closer to the popular climbing areas like Hidden Valley, Quail Springs, Boy Scout Trailhead, and Sheep Pass.

Joshua Tree National Park Camping and Entrance Fees

Before we dive into camping and entrance fees, we highly recommend picking up a National Parks Annual Pass. Read more about how an Annual Pass makes a great gift for adventurous family and friends. Just be sure to hint that you want to come with them!

Joshua Tree Fees:

Car, RV, or camper van entrance fee: $30, good for 7 days and can be purchased in advance
Camping fee: $20/night (Just $10 if you have an Annual Pass! Read more about making Joshua Tree camping reservations below.)
Individual on foot or by bike: $15
Annual Pass: $80 and good for ANY National Park or National Monument for 1 year from the date of purchase. You can also buy an annual pass for just Joshua Tree National Park for $55. However, if you’re travelers like us, it’s worth it to get the $80 pass.

One last reason we buy an Annual Parks Pass every year? They are a great way to give back to the public lands we love!

Camping in Joshua Tree National Park

First Come, First Serve Campgrounds

Most of the camping in Joshua Tree National Park used to be first-come, first-serve. Examples of our favorites?

Hidden Valley
Sheep’s Pass

However, both of these campgrounds are extremely popular with rock climbers. Therefore, this means that during the high season (Spring and Fall), you’ll have to drive in during the week to secure a spot. Or, be prepared to drive circles around the campground in the mornings to see if anyone is packing up.

Often we’ll walk the campground with our dog Lucy and give a friendly good morning wave, then check-in to see if people are leaving. It’s much less offensive than yelling out your car window!

Pro tip: Join the Park Rangers for Climber’s Coffee every Saturday and Sunday from 8-10am at the Hidden Valley Campground. This is also a great way to find out if there may be spots opening up that morning, or later in the week.

How to Make Camping Reservations in Joshua Tree

There are now more opportunities to reserve a campsite in Joshua Tree through Recreation.gov. The most popular campgrounds where you can reserve a spot in advance are:

Ryan Mountain
Jumbo Rocks
Cottonwood
Indian Cove

What to Expect While Camping in Joshua Tree

As we mentioned earlier, camping in Joshua Tree National Park is fairly primitive. You can expect 1-2 parking spots, and an easy walk-in, with campsites 20-30 feet from your car. In addition, they’ll be a picnic table and fire ring. Some sites often have a tall BBQ grill, or at least a grill grate to fold over your campfire.

Campgrounds will also have single-stall compost toilets, trash, and recycling containers throughout the campground. Keep in mind, there is no running water in the park. In addition, some campgrounds will also have a camp host, guided tours and talks, and extra/overflow parking spots for vehicles that do not fit at your campsite.

Camping with Pets

Good news, dogs are allowed in Josuha Tree! However, they must remain on a leash, and cannot be left unattended at your campsite. Dogs are also not allowed on trails. Why? Mainly to preserve the park’s wildlife. Read more about Joshua Tree National Park’s travel guide and rules for bringing your pup camping.

What to Pack for Camping in Joshua Tree National Park

Since you won’t have access to any restaurants or cafes inside the park, be prepared to bring enough food, water, and firewood for the length of your stay. Remember, 1 gallon of water per person, per day. And bring extra for the pups. Also, don’t forget marshmallows, chocolate, and graham crackers to make s’mores over the campfire!

Need a quick packing list for all the other non-food items you might need? Download ours from our Road Trip blog! We’ve thought of everything from pillows to propane. Headlamps to hair ties. Solar chargers to spatulas!

But, if you’ve already left town, there are several places to stock up on supplies in Yucca Valley, Joshua Tree, and Twentynine Palms. There’s even a Walmart! Forgot some climbing gear or a guidebook at home? No problem. Nomad Ventures is just outside the Park’s West Entrance and will have everything you need.

Best Places to Eat and Drink near Joshua Tree

If you’d rather make your own meals for breakfast and lunch, but then head out for a proper dinner, or margaritas to cool off after a long day of climbing, we’ve got you covered! From the Rib Company to Dickey’s Barbeque Pit. Sam’s Indian Food & Pizza. The Joshua Tree Saloon. And, of course, every trip is worth the drive out to Pappy & Harriet’s! Why? The owner often books musicians that you’d normally see on stage at Coachella! Read more on Joshua Tree’s best watering holes.

Things To Do in Joshua Tree National Park:

Hiking- best hikes are near the Real Hidden Valley, Lost Horse Trail, Ryan Mountain, and Jumbo Rocks. Pro tip: You can easily get turned around and off trail as the formations begin to look the same. Use All Trails, but also bring a printed map or screenshots of a topo map so you can find your way!
Trail running
Rock climbing- mainly trad climbing with very little sport climbing in the park
Bouldering
Read & relax!

I could write a whole separate blog on why Joshua Tree is one of my top 3 spots for rock climbing in Southern California…and maybe I will. But for now, you’ll find everything you need in one of the many rock climbing guidebooks. Falcon Guides are our fav travel guides!

Mountain Project is also helpful as a travel guide for climbing in the park, just make sure you download both the area and the photos. With no service in the park, it can be hard to find the route you’re looking for without a photo to guide you.

Cell Service and Wifi in Joshua Tree

If you like living and working remotely, but still need to check that email or make a call while visiting Joshua Tree, it can be done. Typically heading for higher ground might get you 1-2 bars of cell service. But, here’s a few other spots where we’ve been able to make calls and send emails while camping in Joshua Tree National Park:

Boy Scout Trailhead entrance near Quail Springs Road
Sheep Pass parking lot
Key’s View

However, if you need to be on a video call or download something more than 5MB, head outside the park. Even just by making the descent back into Joshua Tree or Twentynine Palms, you’ll come back into cell service before you even leave the park.

In addition, to keep from roaming and draining your battery, we often keep our cell phones in airplane mode most of the day. Then, we turn our phones off at night, using our solar chargers to power them back up during the day!

Adventure Awaits in the Desert!

We enjoy any opportunity to explore new places, but Joshua Tree National Park is one we go back to several times each year. Just pulling out our climbing packs gets me excited! Don’t forget to download our Road Trip Packing Checklist if it’s been a while since your last road trip.

Want more travel tips? Read our blogs:

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Until next time, happy traveling!

– Meredith McConvill

The post Joshua Tree National Park Road Trip appeared first on Top Rope Media.

Camping and Lodging in Sequoia National Park and Kings Canyon

Meredith — Wed, 05 Aug 2020 20:56:30 +0000

Are you searching for camping and lodging in Sequoia National Park and Kings Canyon? Well, we’ve got travel tips to help you find the best spots! In addition, we’ll give you details on disperse camping and camping with bears. Yes, there are frequent bear sightings here!

Lastly, as there’s limited cell service within both parks, we’ll tell you where you can find that coveted WiFi.

The History of Sequoia National Park and Kings Canyon

First things first, a bit on Sequoia National Park and Kings Canyon. As we descended down the curvy road, often sandwiched in between giant granite walls, we were awestruck at the size and scope of both Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks.

Being avid adventurers and rock climbers, we couldn’t quite understand why the park felt empty. How did we even manage to find campsites in the middle of summer? If you’re wondering why you haven’t thought to visit yet, here are some other fun facts about each park you may not know:

Sequoia National Park

Sequoia was the 2nd National Park established in 1890, right after Yosemite National Park
Comprises over 400,000 acres and includes the highest point in the lower 48 states, Mt. Whitney. Looking to hike, climb or simply visit Whitney Portal? Well, you’ll access Mt. Whitney from the west side of the park, off the 395. Therefore, check out our blog on the Eastern Sierras which includes Mount Whitney, Yosemite National Park, and the Mammoth Lakes area.
Home to the largest tree on Earth, the General Sherman tree
Both the Pacific Crest Trail and the John Muir Trail pass through Sequoia National Park
More bears are spotted in Sequoia National Park than in Yosemite!

Kings Canyon National Park

Also established in 1890, but Kings Canyon was originally named General Grant National Park
Encompasses a glacier-carved valley that’s 1 1/2 miles deep and covers over 460,000 acres with several 14,000ft peaks!
This makes it one of the deepest canyons in the U.S. with walls rising almost 8,200ft. from river to rim
The number one cause of death in both Sequoia and Kings Cayon? Drowning. Why? The rivers may look inviting, but swift currents and hidden objects can be hazardous. Be careful when wading out into the river, especially with little ones!

Where to Stay in Sequoia and Kings Canyon: Camping, Lodges, and Cabins

Camping in Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Park can be competitive! However, with a little bit of planning, you can grab a beautiful camping spot with a river or lake view.

Lodges and Hotels in Sequoia and Kings Canyon

Looking more for the conveniences of home while visiting our National Parks? Well, there are campgrounds close to markets, restaurants, wifi, and flush toilets! Need a bit more comfort? Then you could book a spot in one of several lodges or cabins through Sequoia National Park and Kings Canyon.

These include:

Pro tip: Although travel times on the map look close, you’ll be driving along winding mountain roads. This means tight turns, switchbacks, and large drops and gains in elevation throughout both Sequoia and Kings Canyon. Therefore the 22 miles to Cedar Grove in Kings Canyon could take over an hour.

So, save the hours of drive time and stay inside the park. Pay a bit more for either a lodge, campsite, or plan to disperse camp near the park boundaries if you have an RV or self-contained van. Haven’t planned or packed for a road trip in awhile? Check out our road trip blog for checklists of everything you need to stay safe and comfortable!

Camping in Sequoia and Kings Canyon

Where should you start when searching for a campground? Recreation.gov. All campgrounds within both Sequoia National Park and Kings Canyon National Park can be booked through Recreation.gov.

Each campsite will have your standard amenities:

Fresh drinking water, water filling stations
Fire rings (make sure to get a campfire permit – it’s free and easy, plus a good reminder to soak, stir and feel!)
Paved roads (no 4 wheel drive needed)
Picnic tables
Bear boxes for food storage
Compost or flush toilets
Dogs are allowed at your campsite, and on paved roads and trails only

Camping and Tent Choices for the Sierras

After much research, we decided to outfit our 2020 Subaru Crosstrek with a 3-person Yakima SkyRise Rooftop Tent. Why? Well, we had another car camping tent, but with the length of time on the road, the ease of packing up, and the chance to sleep up, off the ground, we opted for a rooftop tent. In addition, keep in mind, this is bear country. So while we enjoy watching wildlife, it’s from a safe distance. Even if that means just 6 feet off the ground from a black bear.

After 20 years of camping on the ground, the rooftop tent was more comfortable, took 6-10 minutes to set up, and provided better airflow. In addition, we could level the rooftop tent out quite easily with a few adjustments to the way the Subaru was parked, or with leveling blocks.

Other great selling points for us? The ease of install! Watch our video to see the setup before we placed it on our roof! Lastly, in addition to the 2.5″ mattress pad that comes in the Yakima SkyRise rooftop tent, we could leave pillows, sleeping bags, reading lights and extra blankets in the tent when we folded it up for travel!

Bears and How to Store Food Properly at Your Campsite

So now that you know there are black bears in Sequoia and Kings Canyon, get educated before your trip on bear encounters and what you should do if you see a bear. At your campsite, you must lock everything with a scent in your bear box. This means all of your toiletries, utensils, hand sanitizer, sunblock, even lip balm. Therefore, everything that a bear might confuse for food, to no only keep them out of your campsite, but also for their protection.

Not to worry, the bear boxes at your campsite will have more than enough room for everything.

Are you planning to disperse camp? If so, we suggest you buy a bear box or bear canisters at REI, and learn how to hang your food. Think its only bears that will sniff out your greasy camp stove? Well, we’ve had all sorts of animals invade our camp. Deer, goats, chipmunks, marmots, and raccoons! Some during broad daylight, and while we were sitting at the campsite!

Best Campgrounds in Sequoia and Kings Canyon

Here are some of our favorite campgrounds within both Sequoia National Park and Kings Canyon National Park:

Lodgepole Campground

At 6,700 feet of elevation, the Lodgepole Campground in Sequoia National Park is cool, even in the summertime! Other sticking points:

The popular hiking trail leading to Tokopah Falls starts right from the campground
Lodgepole campground has both a Market and grill, plus a Visitor’s Center
Pay showers
The campground is situated along the Kaweah River, so easy-to-enter swimming pools to cool off in
Bathrooms with several stalls, running water, and flush toilets!
Rock climbing nearby at Tokopah Dome and the Watchtower
Wifi available nearby at the Wuksachi Lodge

Upper Stoney Creek Campground

A bit further north, the Upper Stoney Creek Campground is at 5,200ft of elevation. It’s a much smaller campground than Lodgepole so it’s quieter and more remote.

More reasons to stay?

Close to Stoney Creek Village, which has a market, gas station, and a small lodge.
Wifi is available for free at the market!
Close to the northern end of the Sequoia National Park boundary
Rock climbing and hiking near the campground includes Little Baldy, Big Baldy, and Chimney Spire

Princess Campground

Looking for camping close to or within Kings Canyon National Park? Or with lake access nearby? Well, Princess Campground offers all of that, and it still feels quite remote!

Here’s more:

Begin the descent down into Kings Canyon easily from camp
Open meadow with easy hiking trail loop
3 miles drive down to Hume Lake
A few miles to Grant Grove, home of the General Grant tree
Grant Grove Village is also nearby, which has a large market and gift shop, restaurant, Visitor’s Center, and free wifi!

Hume Lake Campground

I think we might have saved the best for last as Hume Lake was by far our favorite campground on our trip through Sequoia National Park and Kings Canyon! Here you’ll find everything listed above, plus you’ll be nestled on Hume Lake- where you can swim, fish, kayak or SUP ’til your heart’s content.

Of course, here are all those reasons we would choose Hume Lake campground again on our next visit:

Bathrooms with running water and flush toilets
Easy access to Kings Canyon
Hiking trails include an easy one that circles the lakeshore
Rent sailboats, SUPs, kayaks and canoes nearby
A half-mile from the Hume Lake Christian Camp, which offers a restaurant, snack bar, market, gift shop, and a gas station
Paid wifi is available at Hume Lake Christian Camp (the best wifi we found in the park!)

Disperse Camping

Disperse camping has become more common as travelers take their families on the road for vacations closer to home. Traveling in an RV or self-contained vehicle like a camper van? If so, you’ll have a much easier disperse camping experience. However, keep in mind you’ll need to find National Forest land, Bureau of Land Management (BLM), or an unsigned dirt road where you can camp for free.

For example, both Sequoia National Park and Kings Canyon park boundaries border both National Forest and wilderness areas. However, if a ‘No overnight camping’ sign is posted, be respectful. Understand the local rules for the area you’ll be driving through.

One last point on disperse camping. In most cases, you cannot have a fire, especially during the summer months. Being smart about where you camp, and being sensitive to the environment where you tread will help keep disperse camping options open for everyone. Get more disperse camping tips from Dyrt.

Sequoia National Park and Kings Canyon Park Resources

Park Maps

Are you looking for a map of Sequoia National Park or Kings Canyon before you book camping? Well, whether driving maps or hiking trails, the National Park Service SEKI page has it all.

Park Weather

Weather in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks can change rapidly and vary by over 30 degrees on some days! Why? The weather is very different at the bottom of Kings Canyon Road at 3,000 ft of elevation than at the top of Mt. Whitney or some of the other park peaks that are over 14,000 ft. In addition, park campgrounds are also at very different elevations.

Therefore, take the weather at Sequoia National Park into account when reserving a campground.

Got Questions on Where to Hike, Climb, or Camp?

Leave us a comment or contact us directly.

Searching for more travel tips? Check out our blogs on the Wind River Range in Wyoming, or road-tripping through the Eastern Sierras along the 395!

Thanks for reading,

Meredith McConvill

The post Camping and Lodging in Sequoia National Park and Kings Canyon appeared first on Top Rope Media.