Emily Pennington /byline/emily-pennington/ Live Bravely Thu, 06 Feb 2025 03:12:08 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.1 https://cdn.outsideonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/favicon-194x194-1.png Emily Pennington /byline/emily-pennington/ 32 32 Our Favorite Pre-Black Friday Deals on Gear, from Hiking to Skiing /outdoor-gear/clothing-apparel/early-black-friday-sales/ Fri, 22 Nov 2024 19:39:20 +0000 /?p=2689712 Our Favorite Pre-Black Friday Deals on Gear, from Hiking to Skiing

Take advantage of early Black Friday sales on top outdoor brands, like Merrell, Sea to Summit, and Stio

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Our Favorite Pre-Black Friday Deals on Gear, from Hiking to Skiing

If you’re afraid of missing out on your preferred jacket color, or just hate the Black Friday rush, fear not: For a ton of our favorite brands, Black Friday pricing is already here. But it can be hard to know which retailers are selling their wares in advance, and what’s a worthy discount—there’s nothing worse than spending your hard-earned money, only to find the same item for $50 cheaper a week later. To help, we did the digging and rounded up worthwhile savings on beloved tried-and-tested products. Whether you want to upgrade your ski pants or grab a new pair of hiking boots, there’s a little something on this list for everyone. Read on for our favorite pre-Black Friday sales.

If you buy through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. This supports our mission to get more people active and outside.ÌęLearn more.


Merrell Women's Moab 3 Mid Waterproof
(Photo: Courtesy Merrell)

for $105 ($150)

This grippy, waterproof hiking boot has been on my personal favorites list since it came out in 2022. With Vibram TC5 soles and 5mm lugs, it’ll keep you grounded in sloppy, loose conditions, while its protective rubber toe cap helps shield your feet in rocky, rooty terrain. Now through November 28th, the brand is slashing prices on all waterproof styles by 30%—it’s also a good time to grab your kid a new pair of .

for $400 ($800)

The is one of our all-time ski hill favorites, earning a coveted spot on our 2022 Gear of the Year round-up. Apart from being wonderfully warm and water-repellant, our testers noted that its 50- and 70-denier fabric held strong when carrying skis and hitching snowmobiles. Unlike many insulated shells, which need a durable water-repellent (DWR) coating to shed precipitation, the Odin Infinity is sewn with polypropylene, which won’t wear down or lose waterproofing in the wash. As a bargain-hunter bonus, you can find last season’s bestsellers at 50% off through November 24.

for $204 ($340)

Smith, one of the most coveted brands in ski goggles, is 40% off site-wide right now. Our pick? Its 4D Mag Goggles, which have interchangeable magnetic lenses. One of our backcountry ski gear testers swears by these for his descents and loves the extra-generous field of view, thanks to the unique, curved lens design. If you’re searching for something more affordable, you can also score Smith’s dependable for $90 right now.

Rumpl Sherpa Puffy 2-Person Blanket
(Photo: Courtesy Rumpl)

for $177 ($295)

We’re huge fans of Rumpl’s uber-colorful Sherpa Puffy, which has plush, 100% recycled high-pile fleece on one side and a water-resistant shell fabric on the other. The is built for snuggly evenings around the campfire or frigid nights in your van, with a whopping 84 x 80 inches of cozy blanket space. For reference, that’s about the size of a full comforter. If you’re looking to kit-out your car camping setup, the company’s squishy and cuddle-worthy are also 25% off.

for $467 ($549)

Stio is one of those small, Jackson Hole brands that’s thoroughly impressed me at every turn, and you can score huge discounts on some of their top apparel right now. This includes the all-new , which shine as ultra-durable, waterproof hardshell layers on the slopes. The highly breathable , which won Editor’s Choice in our 2025 Gear Guide, will also be 20% off for one day only on 11/29.

for $715 ($895)

Sometimes, making the most of the best holiday sales means buying items in the winter that you may not use until warmer months, like with this major stand-up paddleboard . Save $180 on the ultra-durable , which we dubbed the Best Inflatable Bay Tourer earlier this year. Our testers loved its rigidity and stability, which are improved by the Pro’s added carbon fiber. Its full-coverage deck pad was also great for getting in a little SUP yoga time. Kids can join in on the water fun–the company’s much shorter is $238 off through December 3.

for $42 ($60)

Take 30% off this ultra-bright, 450-lumen headlamp from Black Diamond through December 2. This is one of the brand’s most waterproof, feature-heavy lights, and it can keep shining for up to 175 hours on its lowest setting. The is also easy to power for those gnarly dawn patrol wake-up calls—simply pop in three AAA batteries or recharge the brand’s (sold separately).

for $74 ($98)

From now until December 4, shoppers can score 25% off full-price apparel at Brooks, including the . This cold-weather cardio favorite has an adjustable internal drawcord and an inner thigh panel that minimizes chafing. And yes, it comes with pockets. Three, to be precise. Peeping a gift for your marathon-obsessed bestie? The brand’s super-supportive are also a sizable 35% off.

Camping World Venture Forward Deluxe Padded Quad Chair
(Photo: Courtesy Camping World)

for $45 ($60)

Camping World’s is a great find if you’re planning a big-ticket purchase or have a handful of outdoor enthusiasts to check off your list. If it were our money, we’d jump on the , a plush, sturdy throne with an included cup holder for your favorite brew. Gifts for more active outdoors people are heavily discounted, too–this is now 47% off. Use code FRIDAY15 to get 15% off orders of $199 or more, now through December 2.

for $150 ($300)

We’ve written about the insulated Powderqueen Bib Pant (namely for its ability to make peeing easier while wearing it), but there are loads of other reasons to get stoked that these snow bibs are 50% off. It’s designed with lightweight down insulation paired with side ventilation zippers to keep you toasty when you need it and adequately vented when you don’t. Plus, its and AVY beacon clip help keep you safer if you venture into the side country.

for $113 ($189)

I’m a massive fan of Sea to Summit’s Ether Light Series, which provides quilted, inflatable backcountry comfort with an excellent warmth-to-weight ratio. The earned a spot on our top sleeping pads in 2019 for its solid 16.6-ounce weight 3.2 R-value. At 4 inches thick, this piece can take a hot minute to blow up, but the company includes an inflation-style stuff sack so that you can spare your lungs on high-altitude pursuits. Hungry for even more savings? Sea to Summit is also taking a hefty 40% off of and throughout this sale.

for $143 ($285)

Well-regarded triathlon brand BlueSeventy is offering 50% off all for its pre-Black Friday sale. Often lauded as one of the most comfortable entry-level wetsuits on the market, the Sprint is made with smooth, Yamamoto neoprene throughout, with stretchy, oversized arm gussets below the shoulders to attack big strokes with gusto. A 4mm core also increases the wearer’s buoyancy for that notorious open water swim.

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REI’s Winter Sale Is Here with the Biggest Savings of the Year /outdoor-gear/hiking-gear/rei-winter-sale-2024/ Fri, 15 Nov 2024 20:36:59 +0000 /?p=2688939 REI’s Winter Sale Is Here with the Biggest Savings of the Year

From cozy down jackets and sleeping bags to Merino base layers, check out these stellar Co-op deals before they’re gone

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REI’s Winter Sale Is Here with the Biggest Savings of the Year

There’s no need to wait for Black Friday to start buying the gear you’ve been coveting all year–REI’s annual Winter Sale is officially here, with deals rolling until November 25. In addition to heavy discounts across top brands, can also take 20% off one full-priced item and an extra 20% off one outlet item (just use code WINTER24 at checkout). From impressive deals on some of my tried-and-tested favorites to steep sales on tents, backpacks, jackets, and more, ‘tis the season to check off your gift list or stock up for the snow-filled winter ahead. Below are stand-out savings you can score at right now.

Updated November 18: The sale is still going strong. We’ve checked the deals in the post to make sure they’re still live and added several new sales to the list, including the Garmin inReach Mini 2 and Nemo Stargaze Reclining Camp Chair.

If you buy through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. This supports our mission to get more people active and outside. Learn more.


Cotopaxi Abrazo Half-Zip Fleece Jacket
Abrazo means “hug” in Spanish, which is what this fluffy fleece jacket from Cotopaxi feels like. (Photo: Courtesy of REI)

Cotopaxi Women’s Abrazo Half-Zip Fleece Jacket for $90 ($120)

Abrazo means “hug” in Spanish, which is what this fluffy fleece jacket from Cotopaxi feels like. As part of the brand’s effort to be more Earth-friendly, this piece is made with 100% recycled fabric, with those bright, patchy colors we’ve come to know and love. A zippered chest pocket makes it easy to stash small essentials, like keys and a credit card, while elastic cuffs help seal in warmth. Forgot your gloves? This garment has a pass-through kangaroo pocket that’s perfect for hand warming.

Smartwool Women’s Performance Hike Light Cushion Crew Socks for $19 ($25)

It often feels like quality Merino socks are never on sale, but Smartwool’s socks are 25% off for a limited time. These Hike Light crew socks are some of my all-time favorites for three-season hiking because of their ventilating mesh zones and well-placed cushioning around the soles of the feet. After dozens of trail miles in them, I’ve never experienced a blister or a hot spot on my heel, thanks to their incredibly form-fitting design for and .

Dakine Charger Mips Snow Helmet for $97 ($130)Ìę

The Dakine Charger helmet is designed with the Mips Brain Protection System for added safety. Created by a brain surgeon, the idea behind this cranium-protecting tech is simple: to redirect rotational motion away from the head, lowering the chance of a traumatic brain injury during a fall on the slopes. It’s so effective that my mom made me splurge on a helmet three years ago, and honestly, I haven’t looked back. Dakine’s Charger Helmet also comes in three different colors and sizes to suit a wide variety of riders. A 100% recycled foam liner and webbing add a touch of eco-friendliness to its design, but my favorite feature is its plush, removable ear pads, which help keep your lobes warm when you’re shredding in the terrain park.

KUHL Fugitive Flannel Shirt
Kuhl’s Fugitive Flannel Shirt is made from an incredibly soft, midweight cotton and Tencel fabric that offers breathability and warmth. (Photo: Courtesy of REI)

Kuhl Men’s Fugitive Flannel Shirt for $64 ($85)

I’m a huge fan of gifting flannel shirts to my friends when temperatures start to drop, and is made from an incredibly soft, midweight cotton and Tencel fabric that offers breathability and warmth. Small metal accent buttons and adjustable cuffs add just a touch of panache. It also comes in five earth-toned color schemes, so the lumberjack on your list can wear his or her favorite hue, too.

REI Co-op Women’s Midweight Base Layer Top for $38 ($55)

I recently tested 13 different base layers, and was easily the best synthetic style for shoppers on a budget. Now, at 30% off, this Bluesign-approved, Fair Trade garment is even more affordable. Summiting something above the tree line? Its UPF 50+ fabric helps protect against the sun’s harmful rays. Uphill skiing? Its 92% recycled polyester naturally wicks away moisture during intense cardio sessions. Most of all, I adored its integrated thump loops, which made for easy layering on a recent canyoneering trip to Moab. And you can pair it with the for a complete set.

Garmin inReach Mini 2 for $300 ($400)

We’ve written a lot about the Garmin inReach Mini in the past, praising it as a fantastic communication tool for the avid backcountry adventurer. When I hiked the John Muir Trail back in 2021, it was one of my key pieces of safety gear and I even used it to text my partner and ask him to send a different piece of equipment I needed to my next stop. The inReach Mini made the wilderness feel less terrifying as a solo female hiker. REI is taking $100 off its sticker price of $400 this November, meaning that you or your loved one can dispatch emergency services or text each other seamlessly in the mountains. Just don’t forget to download the for easier smartphone access on your trip.

Flash 2 Tent
The compact tent is easy to stuff into an elastic water bottle pouch on the side of your pack. (Photo: Courtesy of REI)

REI Co-op Flash 2 Tent for $300 ($429)

It’s tough to find an ultralight two-person tent for under $450, but REI’s Flash 2 is reminiscent of similar Big Agnes designs—at a fraction of the price. With 40 inches of headroom and 29 square feet of floor space, it’s just large enough for two hikers, and its double doors mean easy middle-of-the-night bathroom breaks, which your backpacking partner will thank you for. But with a minimum trail weight of 2 pounds, 13 ounces, it’s also light enough to take on a solo trek, without missing out on useful details like internal mesh pockets and an included rainfly. The tent is designed to be compact (and packs down about the size of a 32-ounce Nalgene), so it’s easy to stuff into an elastic water bottle pouch on the side of your pack.

Nemo Stargaze Reclining Camp ChairÌę for $150 ($250)

It seems like every time I write about car camping chairs, the NEMO Stargaze tops the competition. One of our resident testers called it “more like a mini-hammock than a chair” because of its swing-style design, which allows users to recline way back for optimal celestial viewing. Two integrated cup holders make it easy to stash a beverage or a phone close at hand, and an adjustable, padded headrest keeps your neck comfy if you’re, say, scouring the sky for the Perseids. It weighs in at just under 8 pounds and easily folds into an included carry bag when you’re ready to pack up, making this portable backcountry lounger easy to bring along on different adventures, whether that’s a music festival or a remote car camping trip. And now, it’s $100 off, so this stargazer is even sweeter.

Superfeet Hike Support Insoles for $41 ($55)

As a former dancer and big-time backpacker, my 37-year-old feet need Superfeet’s insoles more than ever, and their entire lineup is 25% off right now. My favorite is the , which suits my medium-height arches well and is specifically designed for trekkers who spend time rambling around on trails. A carbon fiber heel cap puts extra spring in your step (literally), while odor-resistant dual-layer foam gives your feet the cushy landing they deserve on punishing downhills. These stabilizing insoles are built to keep their shape, with a guaranteed 12 months or 500 miles of adventuring.

 

Danner Mountain 600 Leaf GTX Hiking Boots
During REI’s Winter Sale, all Danner footwear is 25% off. (Photo: Courtesy of REI)

Danner Mountain 600 Leaf GTX Hiking Boots for $165 ($220)Ìę

Danner has long been a top hiking boot brand for outdoor lovers, making big waves in the retail scene after being featured on the cover of Wild and in the Reese Witherspoon film based on the book. As part of REI’s Winter Sale, all Danner footwear is 25% off, and the incoming snowy season makes for a great time to upgrade your waterproof footwear with the . Your feet will stay dry with a Gore-Tex liner and a full leather upper, while the Vibram sole offers solid grip on the trail, even when it’s wet and muddy out. Best of all? If you do manage to wear this duds out, they can be resoled and restitched for decades of use.

Smartwool Women’s Classic Thermal Merino Crew Base Layer Top for $86 ($115)

I’ve been a huge fan of Smartwool’s uber-soft Merino wool base layers for nearly a decade because of their superior warmth, natural odor resistance, and next-to-skin fit. This Classic Thermal Merino Crew Top is constructed with 250-weight Merino wool fabric, which is warm enough for most winter pursuits, like resort skiing or snowshoeing in a national park. Personally, I love that Smartwool offers this piece in 15 different colors, making it easy for me to show a little personality on the slopes. It’s on sale for and —and don’t forget the , which are also 25% off.

REI Co-op 650 Down Jacket
REI Co-op’s 650 Down Jacket is easily my favorite budget-friendly puffer, and now, it’s a whopping 40% off. (Photo: Courtesy of REI)

REI Co-op Women’s 650 Down Jacket for $77 ($129)

At just $129 on a typical day, REI Co-op’s 650 Down Jacket is easily my favorite budget-friendly puffer, and now, it’s a whopping 40% off both styles for and . Its super-soft face fabric has kept me cozy on many chilly morning dog walks, and the fact that it’s coated with a non-fluorinated durable water repellent (DWR) is just gravy. Best of all, unlike many other affordable down puffies, this one is , uses filling, and comes from a company.

FjĂ€llrĂ€ven Women’s Expedition Pack Down Hoodie for $196 ($280)

If you’re looking for a warmer, beefier down jacket to keep you toasty this winter, look no further than FjĂ€llrĂ€ven’s Expedition Pack Down Hoodie for and . It’s designed as a throwback to the brand’s vintage styles, using ethically sourced 700-fill-power down to create a packable and lightweight puffer weighing 15.4 ounces. Its shell and lining fabrics are made with 100% recycled nylon, and recycled synthetic insulation inside the shoulders helps keep you warm, even when you’re sweating from wearing a pack. Traveling light? The entire jacket packs down into its small inside pocket for easy stashing.

Osprey Ariel 65 Pack
The pack, which was designed specifically for women, has an adjustable torso slider that makes it easy to dial in the perfect fit.

Osprey Ariel 65L Backpacks for $240 ($320)

I’m a sucker for Osprey’s form-fitting multi-day packs and its All-Mighty Guarantee, which protects all products for a lifetime of heavy use. We rated the Ariel 55 as our favorite women’s backpacking pack in 2018, and its latest iteration is still excellent. The pack, which was designed specifically for women, has an adjustable torso slider that makes it easy to dial in the perfect fit while an injection-molded foam backpanel keeps air flowing even on sweaty ascents. The pack’s fabric is treated with a PFC-free DWR coating, and its hip pockets can each easily stash four protein bars. I also love the backpack’s feature set, which includes a rain cover and dual ice axe loops.

La Sportiva Men’s Bushido III Trail Running Shoes for $109 ($145)

We praised the Bushido II in 2019 for its superb traction and excellent durability. This newer model for and offers much of the same grip and build quality but with improved outsoles, increased breathability, and a wide fit option. This lightweight trail runner is designed to slide on like a sock, eliminating painful pressure points and decreasing the possibility of blisters. (As a bonus, the mesh lining is entirely recycled material.) A 1.5mm rock guard helps protect your feet on the roughest, rockiest trails, while 4mm lugs make for an aggressive grip on gravelly, scree-covered slopes.

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On a Budget? 8 Affordable Hiking Apparel and Footwear Picks We Love /outdoor-gear/hiking-gear/best-budget-hiking-gear-apparel-footwear/ Wed, 06 Nov 2024 18:48:31 +0000 /?p=2687715 On a Budget? 8 Affordable Hiking Apparel and Footwear Picks We Love

Getting into the wild doesn’t have to be an investment. Here are our top, wallet-friendly picks for getting your kit dialed.

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On a Budget? 8 Affordable Hiking Apparel and Footwear Picks We Love

One of the greatest things about much of the wilderness in this country? Exploring it is free for anyone with a sense of wanderlust. But getting kitted out for a trip into the wild? That’s a very real, cost-dependent barrier to entry. I’ll admit that my first backpacking trip as a cash-strapped hiker was done in unforgiving denim jeans and a leather jacket. Thankfully, there are a multitude of low-budget options for quality hiking and backpacking apparel—if you know where to look. Below is a smattering of my favorite tried-and-tested budget-conscious clothing.

If you buy through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. This supports our mission to get more people active and outside. Learn more.


Merrell Speed Eco Hiking Shoes - Women's
When I wore these while hiking in the Rocky Mountains, I particularly loved the built-in toe and heel brakes on the sole pattern (Photo: Courtesy of REI)

Merrell Speed Eco Hiking Shoes for $110

Unfortunately, eco-focused apparel and footwear often comes at a premium. But these lightweight hikers from Merrell are mostly made from recycled material, laces to footbed, and come with a very reasonable $110 price point. They’re great shoes in their own right, too. Sewn with recycled jacquard and mesh, with a grippy, 30% recycled rubber outsole, the pair weighs in at a scant 20.1 ounces. When I wore them hiking in the Rocky Mountains, I particularly loved the toe and heel brakes on the sole pattern, which kept me stable while tramping across tree roots and gravel.

Columbia PFG Tamiami II Long Sleeve Shirt for $25 ($50)

Designed to be a sweat-wicking, sun-shielding long sleeve for anglers who are out on the water all day, this lightweight sun shirt has become my summer hiking staple. That’s because its UPF 40 protection and ventilating, mesh-lined back panel keep me cool and sunburn-free when I’m up in Colorado’s high alpine. Two small, zippered pockets on the women’s version fit keys and lip balm for when I’m going out for a quick dog walk without making the top feel like a full-on safari piece.

Decathlon MT100 Hooded Down Puffer Jacket for $100

We’ve written about Decathlon’s well-loved puffy jacket many times over the years for its very competitive price point. I’ve worn this baby on late-season hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park and on snowy dog walks around my Boulder neighborhood. It’s made with a soft polyamide fabric and Responsible Down Standard-certified 800-fill power insulation. It’s also fitted around the waist and hips, making it easy to layer under a shell.

REI Co-op Trailmade Rain Jacket
This jacket delivers the two-layer breathable waterproofing you’d find in a pricier shell. (Photo: Courtesy of REI)

REI Co-op Trailmade Rain Jacket for $70

With its funky, high-vis colors and prints, REI’s Trailmade Rain Jacket hits an impressive $70 price point while still delivering a two-layer, breathable waterproofing you’d find in a pricier shell. Its cinchable hood helps keep errant droplets out when the wind kicks up, while zippered hand pockets make it easy to stash a few small essentials, like a phone and a paper map. Hikers looking for a slightly more waterproof, breathable shell can fork over $30 extra for the brand’s (still extremely affordable) Rainier jacket.

Decathlon Quechua MH100 Hiking Shorts for $25

Hiking shorts shouldn’t cost a fortune, and this pair from Decathlon hits the sweet spot between comfort and fit at an exceptional $25 price point. Weighing-in at 3.9 ounces for a size medium, these lightweight shorts are designed with slightly stretchy, durable polyester fabric that dries quickly and wicks moisture well. Two basic-but-functional hand pockets and a semi-elastic waist round out this hiking kit staple.

Columbia Newton Ridge Waterproof Hiking Boot for $60 ($100)

Columbia’s popular Newton Ridge Hiking Boot hits all the marks for a sturdy hiking boot. It boasts excellent ankle support and midsole cushioning for moderate backpacking loads. A seam-sealed grain leather and suede upper is waterproof and plenty durable for years of abuse. And a sticky, widely spaced lug pattern does well in everything from slickrock to mud. Pro tip: while these boots are already some of the best-priced you’ll find anywhere, they routinely go on sale for $60.

Teva Original Universal Sandals
Teva’s Original Universal Sandals have a cult-like following for a good reason: they last for what feels like forever.
(Photo: Courtesy of REI)

Teva Original Universal Sandals for $27 ($55)

I’m not usually a hiking sandals person, but Teva’s Original Universal Sandals have a cult-like following for a good reason: they last for what feels like forever. They’re also so comfortable that I’m partial to throwing them on to walk my dog around town whenever it gets above 90 degrees. Are they the most grippy or supportive Tevas on the market? No, but for $55, you’ll get durable, soft recycled polyester webbing and comfy EVA foam footbeds that are great for flat trails, walking around camp, and water-based adventures.

Outdoor Research Vigor Grid Fleece Quarter-Zip Pullover for $49 ($99)

For folks in need of a high-output fleece, the OR Vigor checks all the boxes with its moisture-wicking grid pattern. The Vigor has flat seams and enough stretch to move comfortably while bending over or reaching up, while thump loops make for easy layering on frigid days. A zippered chest pocket is also handy for stashing keys and a wallet on quick runs or trips to the gym. Best of all? It’s protected by Outdoor Research’s “Infinite Guarantee” in the off-chance you manage to bust a seam.

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The 11 Best Ski Gear Deals During Evo’s Anniversary Sale /outdoor-gear/snow-sports-gear/evo-anniversary-sale-2/ Wed, 23 Oct 2024 20:40:23 +0000 /?p=2686214 The 11 Best Ski Gear Deals During Evo's Anniversary Sale

One of the snow gear retailer's biggest blowouts is here with up to 50 percent off top ski equipment

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The 11 Best Ski Gear Deals During Evo's Anniversary Sale

Beloved snow gear retailer Evo is currently hosting a blowout , with hundreds of items heavily discounted. You can save big on must-have gear right now, including brand-name gloves, jackets, bibs, and boards—just in time for many ski resorts’ openings. But with so much on sale, it can feel daunting to sift through the options in your search for real deals on the best products. After a careful combing-through, here are our top picks for those who love powder (and saving money).

If you buy through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. This supports our mission to get more people active and outside. Learn more.


Hestra Fall Line 5-Finger Gloves
On my coldest ski days last year, my beloved Hestra gloves were always the first things I grabbed to put in my boot bag. (Photo: Courtesy of Hestra)

Hestra Fall Line 5-Finger Gloves for $120 ($165)

Conquer frigid slopes without sacrificing dexterity this season with these grippy, insulated cowhide gloves from Hestra. On my coldest ski days last year, my beloved Hestra gloves were always the first things I grabbed to put in my boot bag. They also saved my precious fingers when it dipped to -3 degrees and I had to walk my (very energetic) lab mix. The brand’s Fall Line model has a removable liner so that you can adjust the warmth as you please. And unlike other styles, it also comes with wrist leashes.

Burton Lightweight X Base Layer Pants for $39 ($65)


I don my lightweight Burton base layers whenever I want a fun, breathable pop of color under my bibs. Not only does the brand rotate its unique prints seasonally, but it also uses synthetic Bluesign-approved materials so that your mountain apparel is a bit more eco-friendly. Sure, Merino long johns are less stinky, but synthetic base layers are generally more durable and quicker to dry. They’re also a bit more affordable, and when you factor in this 40% off sale from Evo, Burton’s bottoms are a screaming deal.

Patagonia Capilene Midweight Zip-Neck Top for $89 ($99)


Patagonia’s Capilene series is my all-time favorite synthetic base layer system, so much so that I took the brand’s hoody to all 63 national parks back in 2020. This midweight top has the same diamond grid to help trap warm air close to your body while a high, zippered neck keeps drafts out when you need it and vents excess heat when things get steamy. And, as is the norm with Patagonia, this midlayer is bluesign-approved and Fair Trade-certified.

Patagonia women's Powder Town Jacket
Patagonia’s Powder Town Jacket has all the features you’d want from a premium, slope-ready winter coat. (Photo: Courtesy of Patagonia)

Patagonia Powder Town Jacket for $230 ($349)Ìę


With pit zips, an adjustable hood, and security pockets galore, has all the features you’d want from a premium, slope-ready winter coat. A 100% recycled polyester shell with a PFC-free durable water repellent (DWR) finish helps keep the elements out, and a button-up powder skirt helps you stay snow-free if you take a tumble. Its integrated RECCO reflector will also give search and rescue workers a leg up in an emergency.

Patagonia Powder Town Bibs for $145 ($299)


Sometimes ski pants just won’t cut it: You want those trusty bibs to keep snow out and your core cozy. Patagonia’s Powder Town Bibs are not insulated, meaning you can layer up or down as needed throughout the season. They sport a waterproof, breathable membrane that’s designed to shed moisture when you’re earning your turns. They also have a 100% recycled polyester shell with a PFC-free DWR finish, making these bibs an excellent blend of weatherproof and breathable. Zippered hand and bib pockets also make storing small essentials like sunblock and a lift ticket easy.

Zeal Beacon Goggles for $95 ($249)

My all-time favorite eyewear for skiing, Zeal’s polarized , are now on sale. Not only are they compatible with glasses—something my poor vision appreciates—but they’re also designed so that the bottom of the goggles’ frame sits closer to your face, giving a greater vertical periphery for those steep and deep double black diamonds.

Gnu Barrett C3 Snowboard - Women's 2024
The Gnu Barrett C3 is one of the best women’s snowboard. (Photo: Courtesy of Gnu)

Gnu Barrett C3 Snowboard for $420 ($600)

We dubbed the best women’s snowboard of 2025, and you can score last season’s version on sale right now. It’s still designed with the same aggressive C3 camber for high-speed lines and the occasional freestyle romp. It also boasts a medium-firm flex, ideal for pushing your speedy boundaries in intense terrain.

Nitro Alternator Snowboard + Team Snowboard Bindings 2025 for $819Ìę($910)

Ìę

The eye-catching Nitro Alternator was our all-around favorite snowboard last year, designed for riders to hop seamlessly from freestyle terrain to cliff drops and everything in between. As such, it’s a versatile snowboard, with a stiff (but not too stiff) flex rating and standard camber-style rocker. Best of all, if you get the board with bindings, it’s nearly $100 off.

Nordica Enforcer 100 Skis 2024 for $560 ($800) Ìę

We’ve reviewed Nordica’s ever-popular Enforcer 100 Skis many times and found it’s a top all-mountain ski. In our past tests, it excelled in messy, variable conditions and remained stable at high speeds on ultra-steep slopes. Our ski experts noted that it’s an excellent pick for intermediate slope stars hoping to up their game or expert skiers who love to explore off-piste.

Blizzard Phoenix 7.7 Skis ​+ TLT10 Bindings - Women's 2024
This model’s binding mount points are placed slightly forward for a female-specific center of gravity. (Photo: Courtesy of Blizzard)

Blizzard Women’s Phoenix 7.7 Skis + TLT10 Bindings for $360 ($600)Ìę

Are you a beginner skier dreaming of moving up from the scuffed edges of rental gear this season? The from Blizzard can help you do that. A 6mm rocker design makes turns and transitions on hard groomers more manageable, and this model’s binding mount points are placed slightly forward for a female-specific center of gravity. The package includes TLT10 Bindings, which can be set with a DIN of 3-10, so you can easily adjust their clawing grip as you graduate to harder turns and gnarlier steeps.

Arc’teryx Sentinel Bib Pants for $560 ($700)

Fear no powder as you send your favorite double blacks this season with Arc’teryx’s high-rise . Made from a waterproof nylon face fabric with Gore-Tex Pro, these pants are designed to keep the wearer dry season after season. Cuffed ankle guards also help keep icy muck out from down below and integrated RECCO reflectors add peace of mind to those committing to back- and side-country expeditions.

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Upgrade Your Hiking Boots with These 9 REI Footwear Deals /outdoor-gear/hiking-gear/rei-hiking-boot-sale/ Fri, 18 Oct 2024 20:54:35 +0000 /?p=2685873 Upgrade Your Hiking Boots with These 9 REI Footwear Deals

Now’s the time to refresh your hiking footwear and take advantage of these REI deals

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Upgrade Your Hiking Boots with These 9 REI Footwear Deals

Hiking season is far from over, but savvy shoppers can already find big savings right now during . As temperatures drop and demand for winter gear heats up, the beloved retailer is slashing prices on last season’s footwear styles.

From fan-favorite boots like and to styles from specialty brands like Xero Shoes, loads of mountain-ready options are now heavily discounted at REI. To save you time, we sorted through the sales for our top picks with the best savings. If you’re in the market for new hiking footwear—or to snag a holiday gift early—check out our favorite deals below.

If you buy through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. This supports our mission to get more people active and outside. Learn more.


Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots
The Merrell Moab 3 has an upper of performance-suede leather and mesh. (Photo: Courtesy Merrell)

for $90 ($150)

We’ve written about Merrell’s Moab 3 before, noting that it improved an already great design with a waterproof (yet breathable) M-Select Dry liner and an enhanced, shock-absorbing footbed. The outsoles are built for rugged terrain, too, sporting an exclusive-to-Merrell TC5+ Vibram compound that won’t quit on granite slabs and mucky uphill slogs. Even better? The Moab 3 also has an increased commitment to sustainability, with 100% recycled laces, webbing, lining, and eyelets.

Ìęfor $98 ($130)

We get it—hiking in high-top boots isn’t for everyone, and have the chops to keep up on-trail with much burlier footwear. Gravel-grabbing 4mm lugs make for aggressive traction on loose, steep trails, while removable EVA foam insoles add cushioning and support in targeted areas. Relatively earth-friendly materials abound in this design, too, from the 100% recycled laces and uppers to Vibram EcoDura outsoles, which use 30% recycled materials.

for $180 ($240)

The Kaha 2 GTX might be the most supportive lightweight hiking boot that I’ve ever tested. At under 2 pounds, these grippy and breathable shoes feel more like a trail runner than a high-top boot with ankle support. Yet, they provide the same trail-grabbing Vibram soles and heel stability you might expect from a chunkier hiker. A Gore-Tex membrane provides waterproofing, upping the ante and making these an ideal three-season boot. Plus, the is also currently on sale for 25% off.

for $145 ($199)

These hiking boots were made for messy, wet conditions. They offer waterproof (yet breathable) Gore-Tex linings, tenacious rubber outsoles, and welded TPU lacing harnesses to customize a secure, dialed-in fit. Aggressive outsole brakes also make for safer trekking across slick or uneven landscapes.

Keen Women's Targhee III Hiking Boots
°­±đ±đČÔ’s Targhee III is a mid-height, waterproof hiking boot that’s popular on the trails. (Photo: Courtesy Keen)

for $120 ($165)

°­±đ±đČÔ’s Targhee III is one of those fan-favorite hiking boots that I see every time I set foot on a Colorado trail, and with good reason. With soft leather uppers and thick, 4mm lugs, these waterproof boots are made to go the distance. And at 1 pound 12 ounces, the lightweight style offers excellent support and traction without feeling like two bricks strapped to your feet. They’re also reasonably wide (without feeling too wide), so the design works for a large range of foot shapes.

for $37 ($75)

We ranked °­±đ±đČÔ’s as one of our favorite shoes for outdoorsy kids last year, and with this stellar 50% off deal, we’d be remiss if we didn’t recommend them again. A secure bungee lacing system makes it easy for little crushers to adjust the fit without having to fiddle with laces, and non-marking rubber outsoles keep the boots stuck to rough, rocky trails. On top of all that, these boots are equipped with the same waterproof, breathable membrane that the company’s adult shoes are lined with, to help keep feet dry in rainstorms and during mellow stream crossings.

Ìęfor $92 ($185)

As someone who’s rolled her ankles more times than she can count, I’m a big fan of high-top trail runners that double as ultralight hiking boots. Weighing in at just 1 pound 3 ounces, checks all my boxes. I took a pair on a four-day trek through Chilean Patagonia this year and was impressed with how the grip locked into loose terrain when I was scrambling off-trail with a pack on. The extra-cushy foam midsoles also helped me stay comfy on big-mile days with weight on my back.

Xero Women's Xcursion Fusion Hiking Boots
These minimalist and lightweight hiking boots offer excellent traction. (Photo: Courtesy Xero Shoes)

for $105 ($150)

If you’re into minimalist running and hiking shoes, chances are you know all about Xero Shoes’ excellent traction and design. At just 1 pound 4 ounces per pair, these waterproof hiking boots certainly qualify as ultralight. Plus, they have zero drop soles, burly 3.5 mm lugs for traction, and are made with vegan-friendly materials. Keep in mind: The company recommends ordering a half size up in this style.

for $88 ($125)

We’ve extolled the virtues of Astral’s extra-grippy TR1 water shoes before, and this hiking-forward version of the design features the same super-grippy, non-marking G15 rubber outsoles. The main difference? This model boasts a more lightweight profile, more mesh, and a slightly lower price point that’s now nearly 30% off. A 100% recycled upper also adds a touch of sustainability to these low-top shoes.

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The 16 Best October Prime Day Deals on Outdoor Gear /outdoor-gear/camping/best-october-prime-day-deals-2024/ Mon, 07 Oct 2024 23:40:07 +0000 /?p=2684329 The 16 Best October Prime Day Deals on Outdoor Gear

Amazon Prime Big Deal Days is here: shop these serious savings on some of our favorite outdoor gear

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The 16 Best October Prime Day Deals on Outdoor Gear

It’s officially that time of year: is here with loads of sweet deals designed to help you get a jump start on your holiday shopping (or nab yourself a new treat). For a limited time during these October Prime Days, you can score serious savings on favorite brands, including Keen, Igloo, Columbia, and more.

As with the online retailer’s renowned July Prime Days, it can be tricky to suss out the real deals, which is why our team of gear experts has scoured the best brand-name outdoor discounts we feel are worthy of your hard-earned cash. But remember, you need to be an to snag many of these steep discounts. So, double-check that login and keep scrolling for our favorite outdoorsy finds while they’re still on sale.

Updated for Day 2: We’ve added six deals to the list, including the Coleman Sundome 6-Person Camping Tent, Nuun Electrolyte Tablets, Goal Zero Yeti Portable Power Station,Ìę Thule RoundTrip 80L Duffel, Energizer Universal Plus LED Headlamp, and CamelBak Lobo 9 Bike Hydration Pack. We also checked all links, updated prices, and removed the Klymit Double Wide Camping Hammock.

If you buy through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. This supports our mission to get more people active and outside. Learn more.


Coleman Sundome Camping Tent product image
(Photo: Courtesy Coleman)

for $96 ($130)

When put to the test, this tent’s durability and ease of setup impressed our gear guys. With decent waterproofing, interior stash pockets, and two D-shaped zip-up doors, this dome tent is a budget-friendly find at 26% off right now. Plus, with 10 feet x 10 feet of floor area, this six-person version has enough space for you to sprawl out with a buddy or bring the kids along on a car camping trip this season.

for $20 ($30)

Staying hydrated is important when you’re going hard in the outdoors, whether you’re pedaling up a steep, dusty incline or sending the gnar in Yosemite Valley. We’ve been big fans of Nuun’s portable hydration tablets for years, and this Prime Day deal makes a good thing even better by slashing the price by 33%. So go ahead and try different flavors with this mixed fruit four-pack and keep those electrolytes handy on your next big adventure.

for $450 ($600)

We’ve rarely seen a price drop this big on Goal Zero’s ever-popular power stations, which make off-grid travel easy for those of us who like to tote our laptops and cameras everywhere. With two USB-A and USB-C outlets, plus three-prong plugs for your standard-issue electronics, charging your tablet while making a backcountry pot of coffee is a cinch. Plus, its IPX4 rating for water resistance means that it can withstand water splashes from any direction, should your adventures take you to places a little wet and wild.

Thule RoundTrip 80L Duffel product image
(Photo: Courtesy Thule)

for $144 ($170)

As someone who’s spent way, way too much time testing and thinking about ski boot bags, I can assure you that Thule’s RoundTrip 80L Duffel is well worth the money — especially while it’s currently on sale. It sports a fleece-lined side pocket for your goggles and helmet, plus drain holes in the bottom to help with errant melted snow. The best part? At 80L, it’s large enough to stash away extra base layers, gloves, hats, and a shell or two, so you can keep your kit organized, rise early, and hit the road in a flash.

for $9 ($17)

At 46% off, this deal on Energizer’s 100-lumen headlamps offers serious bang for your buck. Many name-brand outdoor headlamps of similar brightness retail for two to three times the price of this two-pack, which comes with a set of the brand’s batteries, making them ready in an emergency without having to be charged. These basic lights are bright enough for use around the home or for car camping trips with the family, these headlamps are also equipped with a red LED setting to help preserve your night vision after hours.

for $54 ($100)

I have a CamelBak hydration backpack that’s still going strong after 15 years of use, and I recommend this durable brand to everyone I know. So I was thrilled when I saw that the company’s 9-liter Lobo pack was up to 46% off. Although you could use it for hiking or climbing, this tiny rucksack was designed with the avid cyclist in mind, offering a handy helmet carry, thin hip belt, and zippered pockets to keep you watered and organized on that dirt singletrack.

LifeStraw Go Series – BPA-Free Water Filter Bottle product image
(Photo: Courtesy LifeStraw)

for $38 ($45)

With LifeStraw’s Go Series, you can filter harmful bacteria out of your wilderness water source without stopping to pump or use a frustrating squeeze bag. And at 19% off for certain colors, this is the lowest price we’ve seen on these handy 22-liter bottles in months. The bottle’s membrane microfilter is designed to last for up to 4,000 liters or about five years of daily use, according to the brand. In addition to eliminating disease-causing pests from your water, it also helps remove chlorine, odors, and organic chemical matter.

for $137 ($190)

We’re huge fans of Therm-a-rest’s NeoAir series, which offers an excellent warmth-to-weight ratio and comes with the brand’s. The Topo Luxe continues this ethos but with a camper’s utmost comfort in mind. As such, it’s a bit thicker and heavier than some of its NeoAir cousins. A 25-inch width and four inches of plush inflatable thickness will help give you a good night’s sleep, no matter where you pitch your tent. Plus, with an R-value of 3.7, it’s fit for three seasons of adventures.

Anker SOLIX C1000 Portable Power Station product image
(Photo: Courtesy Anker)

for $550 ($1,068)

Sales on portable, outdoorsy electronics abound during this Amazon Prime Big Deal Days, but Anker’s SOLIX C1000 is a stand-out at 49% off. With six three-pronged, wall-style outlets, you can charge your whole crew’s electronics at the same time, or power your laptop while projecting an outdoor movie onto the side of your van. The is also on sale with a digital coupon, but we like this Prime Day bundle, which comes with a waterproof bag for when inclement weather inevitably strikes in the mountains.

for $66 ($165)

°­±đ±đČÔ’s Targhee Boots have reached legendary status in hiking circles with their ultra-grippy rubber lugs and stable heel. For this Amazon Prime Big Deal Days, you can save up to 60% on these bestselling boots. They’re a great pick for multi-day, overnight treks and day hiking sojourns, due to their awesome support and stability.

for $459 ($799)

At $459, the Jackery 1000 v2 Portable Power Station is 43% off and the lowest price it’s ever been on Amazon. Sure, it’s a great staple to have on hand if the power ever goes out in your neighborhood. But also, it’s an excellent piece of outdoor tech from a company we’ve noted before, one that lets you take mobile power with you, whether you’re on an off-the-grid trout fishing trip or a backcountry ski epic. The Jackery Explorer has regular-style wall plugs, plus USB-A and USB-C outlets, to keep everything you need fully charged. Weighing in at 23.8 pounds, it’s light enough to toss into your car trunk or van cabinets for a weekend in the woods.

Igloo IMX Hard product image
(Photo: Courtesy Igloo)

for $95 ($170)

During this October Prime Day, you can score 44% off a robust, beefy cooler that’s similar to Yeti’s thick-walled, hard-shell marvels but at a fraction of the price. At $100 for the 24-liter version, it’s the lowest price we’ve seen since last December. Hit that football tailgate or leaf-peeping road trip with your favorite chilled snacks and bevies in style.

for $60 ($100)

Whether your travels take you to far-flung multi-day trails in Nepal or simply to your local climbing gym, Osprey’s 60-liter duffel is a roomy and functional pick to stash all your gear securely. A mesh water bottle pocket and zippered end pocket make it easy to grab smaller essentials, while a huge, zippered front panel allows for the storage of larger items. Oh, and did we mention it quickly transforms into a backpack for hands-free carry and is currently 40% off? It’s also backed by Osprey’s industry-famous.

for $18 ($26)

If you’re a fan of down-filled warmth, you know how pricey it can be to repair or replace your precious insulated apparel. Proper washing and care are essential to ensure that it lasts for many seasons in the wild. Down Wash.Direct allows you to wash down-stuffed gear in a safe and sustainable way while maintaining its water repellency. Meanwhile, Down Proof is a wash-in waterproofer that you can apply to your insulated items to add additional waterproofing protection.

Columbia Mens Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof Hiking Boot product image
(Photo: Courtesy Columbia)

for $50 ($100)

We’ve featured Columbia’s low-cost boots before, but its flagship model, the Newton Ridge, is up to 50% off right now. For just $50, you can get this ankle-height boot with a grippy rubber sole that’s backed by a one-year warranty. It’s the lowest price we’ve seen on these babies in years.

for $28 ($40)

Hydrating on the go isn’t always a graceful process if you’re packing a twist-top water bottle. That’s why we’re fans of this big gulp-style travel tumbler from Hydro Flask, which is cupholder-friendly and can tote 40 ounces of your favorite cold beverage when you’re on the road to the ski hill or your favorite national park. When it’s time to clean, simply disassemble the lid and toss the whole package (cup included) into the dishwasher.

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11 Most Beautiful Hot-Springs Resorts in the U.S. /adventure-travel/destinations/north-america/best-hot-springs-resorts-us/ Sun, 06 Oct 2024 14:45:33 +0000 /?p=2683408 11 Most Beautiful Hot-Springs Resorts in the U.S.

It’s a tough job, but I’ve been testing these warm-soak places for many years. Here are my all-time favorites.

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11 Most Beautiful Hot-Springs Resorts in the U.S.

As chilly weather approaches and the leaves turn, it’s time to swap out staying in your favorite camping tent in favor of a hot-spring resort or cabin.

As a self-proclaimed hot-springs addict, I’ve been on the prowl for seven years for the most gorgeous, steamy soaking pools across the globe. Having lived in the geothermal meccas of California and Colorado for years, I’ve experienced the good, the bad, and the muddy when it comes to naturally fed soaking ponds. I’ve trekked to remote warm springs in the Sierra Nevada and the Rocky Mountains, in Iceland and even Antarctica, and stripped down to splash into every single one of ’em.

Even though I love a solid hike-in hot spring, my favorite way to enjoy geothermally heated pools is on a splurge-worthy weekend trip to a lodge or a resort with private cabins, where I can soothe my tired muscles in peace, without crawling into a sleeping bag in a van or tent afterwards. Here are a few of my all-time favorite U.S. hot-springs resorts.

If you buy through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. This supports our mission to get more people active and outside.ÌęLearn more.

1. Ojo Caliente, New Mexico

Nearest town: Taos
Prices from: $239 for rooms per night, $40 for camping

woman in pool at retreat in Ojo Caliente
The adobe-style Ojo Caliente resort is close to Georgia O’Keeffe country and beautiful hiking. (Photo: Courtesy Ojo Spa Resorts)

Tucked away between Santa Fe and Taos sits the vibrant , a gaggle of adobe-style suites, retro cottages, and a historic hotel, surrounded by hiking paths, bike trails, and loads of soaking ponds.

The resort at Ojo Caliente opened in 1868, and it’s been revered as a healing sanctuary ever since, offering mineral pools rich with soda, lithium, and iron. These minerals are said to aid digestion, boost moods, and bolster your immune system, respectively. The resort’s high-end spa offers a huge variety of treatments, from sound healing to blue-corn-and-prickly-pear-sea-salt scrubs. But this retreat is not all soaking and spa time–in between baths, you can treat yourself to a yoga class, hike the or chow down on piping-hot tortilla soup and chicken mole at the on-site Artesian Restaurant and Wine Bar.

Ojo Caliente near Taos
Ojo, as locals refer to it, is 41 miles from Taos and 47 miles from Santa Fe. The cottonwoods are spectacular in fall. (Photo: Courtesy Ojo Spa Resorts)

2. Esalen Institute, California

Nearest town: Big Sur
Prices from: $540 (for three days/two nights)

Esalen Institute
The Esalen Institute, an alternative-education and retreat center in Big Sur, California, offers soaking pools high above the Pacific Ocean. The author also hiked in one of the area’s state parks while here. (Photo: Kodiak Greenwood)

has long been a haven for holistic hippies and New Age types looking to embark on week-long or weekend escapes filled with meditation, clean eating, therapeutic workshops, and oceanfront hot-springs access.When I stayed at Esalen a few years ago, I skipped the institute’s famed expert-led workshops and booked a self-guided weekend exploration with my partner, so that we’d have ample free time.

We still attended a wide variety of open classes, from ecstatic dance to yoga to the study of native plant botanicals. This approach allowed us tons of time to hike among the coastal redwoods at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park and spend our nights soaking in the property’s outstanding Slate Hot Springs, which overlook the wild Pacific Ocean.

Esalen Institute as shown along the Big Sur coast
Looking south from Esalen, in Big Sur. The non-profit was founded in 1962 to explore human potential in a restorative environment. (Photo: Kodiak Greenwood)

3. Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort, Colorado

Nearest town: Nathrop
Prices from: $243 a night

Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort
Mount Princeton Hot Springs, eight miles from Buena Vista, Colorado, offers pools, with nearby hiking, fishing, rafting, nordic skiing, and golf. About 35 miles away, the town of Leadville claims the country’s highest highest golf course, at 9,680 feet. (Photo: Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort)

Unlike many hot-springs retreats, which brand themselves as adults-only relaxation hubs, offers family-friendly pools, cabins, and lodge rooms, with a seasonal waterslide and an infinity pool overlooking the sky-high Mount Princeton and Mount Antero.

Guests can choose between minimalist lodge rooms, log cabins, and motel-style cliffside stays with epic mountain views. I heartily recommend the luxe Creekside Suites, complete with kitchenettes, balconies, and fireplaces, where my partner and I stayed this fall for a hike-and-soak couples’ retreat. Not only are the suites close to the natural-stone warm pools along Chalk Creek, they’re tucked back behind the main lodge and pools for maximum serenity. When you aren’t getting pruney fingers in the springs, indulge in a CBD massage (my favorite treatment) at the spa or a Rocky Mountain elk filet at the on-site restaurant.

Mount Princeton Hot Springs resort, Nathrop, Colorado
Some of the resort lodging is on the banks of Chalk Creek, which offers the natural-stone warm pools. (Photo: Lisa Seaman)

4. Quinn’s Hot Springs Resort, Montana

Nearest town: Paradise
Prices from: $269 a night

large outdoor hot springs in Montana
Summer at Quinn’s Hot Springs Resort, near Paradise, Montana. You can hike in the area, and fish and paddleboard in the adjacent river. (Photo: Noah Couser Photography)

Situated a mere hour from the outdoorsy mecca of Missoula, serves up elevated, mountain-chic lodge rooms, cozy riverfront cabins, and naturally fed springs with water temperatures up to 106 degrees, which is steamier than your average hot tub.

The soaking pools at Quinn’s are open year-round and offer vistas of forested hillsides, which, in winter months, are topped with snow. The site’s Canyon Cabins boast the most direct access to the springs, but its River View Cabins, set on the banks of the Clark Fork, offer outstanding views. When you’re not taking a dip or casting a line for native westslope cutthroat trout, enjoy hearty Americana fare like bison carpaccio and wild-game meatloaf at Harwood House Restaurant, which won a Wine Spectator Award of Excellence in 2024.

Quinn Hot Springs
The resort is set on the banks of the Clark Fork and open year-round, in winter offering steamy snow-fringed pools. (Photo: Courtesy Noah Couser Photography)

5. Breitenbush Hot Springs, Oregon

Nearest town: Detroit
Prices from: $112 for camping / $117 for rooms

Breitenbush Hot Springs, Oregon
Two hours from Portland, Breitenbush Hot Springs is a co-op and spiritual retreat that has been rebuilt in phases following the devastating wildfires of 2020. (Photo: Courtesy Breitenbush Hot Springs)

Following a devastating fire back in 2020, Oregon’s is back in action, with three newly built Grove Rooms, plus mushroom yurts, glamping tents, and vehicle-friendly campsites.

This off-grid, clothing-optional sanctuary is a mere two-hour drive from Portland and is open year-round. It’s a designated substance- and device-free space, so travelers can unwind and unplug while connecting with community members. Natural rock-bottom hot-spring pools and clawfoot tubs adorn the forested property, and organic vegetarian meals can be added onto any booking, including day passes.

Not keen on soaking all afternoon? Spend some time cruising the West Cascades Scenic Byway or hike the .

6. Chena Hot Springs Resort, Alaska

Nearest town: Fairbanks
Prices from: $20 for camping / $200 for rooms a night

Chena Hot Springs, Alaskan interior
The mineral-laced Chena Hot Springs are about 60 miles northeast of Fairbanks, Alaska. The drive passes through the Chena River State Recreation Area, which offers hiking, backpacking, climbing, fishing, camping, hunting, and canoeing. (Photo: Cavan Images/Getty)

Want to kick back in a remote hot spring while the green tendrils of the Northern Lights dance above your head? At , a retreat center in Alaska’s rugged interior, this far-flung dream can become a reality.

Choose between the hotel-style Moose Lodge Rooms, the cozy budget-friendly Fox Rooms, woodsy cabins, camping yurts, and RV-friendly campsites, then relax. With an average water temperature of 106 degrees, this soaking site is prime for year-round visitors, no matter how gnarly the Alaska weather gets. Aromatherapy and hot stone massages are also available in an adorable cabin near the main Pool House. Spend your days cuddling sled-dog puppies, touring the ice museum, or dog sledding, and when the sun sets, bundle up for an .

7. Avalanche Ranch Cabins and Hot Springs, Colorado

Nearest town: Carbondale
Prices from: $135 a night

pools and a rainbow at Avalanche Ranch, Redstone, Colorado
The three tiered pools of Avalanche Ranch, a retreat in the Crystal River Valley, Redstone, Western Colorado. You can soak and also hike, fish, bike, and go rafting or cross-country skiing here. (Photo: Courtesy Avalanche Ranch)

With day pass rates of $32 and lodging starting at $135, the clear, uncrowded pools of have become a Colorado favorite, with overnight guests often having to book four to six months out.

I first heard about Avalanche Ranch back in 2019, when a canceled flight out of Aspen gave me a day to kill near Carbondale. Lucky me. Because it was a frigid weekday, I was able to make a last-minute day reservation and warm my post-ski bones with a view of snowy Mount Sopris and its rounded twin summits. It was as close to a perfect day in the mountains as you can imagine, but next time I head to Avalanche Ranch, I’ll spend a little extra to bed down in one of the property’s colorful, pet-friendly log cabins. Overnight guests can use the springs 24 hours a day; day passes allow four-hour access from 9:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M. or 1:00 to 5:00 P.M. (The pool closes Wednesdays for cleaning.)

Penny Hot Springs, Redstone, Colorado
Bonus! Only 1.3 miles from Avalanche Ranch are the Penny Hot Springs, occurring naturally in the Crystal River. (Photo: Campbell Habel)

8. Burgdorf Hot Springs, Idaho

Nearest town: McCall
Prices from: $150 a night

Burgdorft Hot Springs, Idaho
The Burgdorf Hot Springs retreat, near McCall, Idaho, offers basic amenities and asks visitors to turn off electronic devices. Set in the Payette National Forest, the place also offers access to a plethora of hiking, biking, and horseback riding. (Photo: Courtesy Burgdorf Hot Springs)

Accessible by regular vehicles all summer long and by snowmobile in the winter months, and its historic cabins look more like a rustic ghost town than a real-deal soaking resort. However, this off-grid haven is a slice of paradise for those who don’t mind booking a cottage without electricity and running water, and are willing to bring their own bedding.

Intrepid wanderers will be rewarded with steaming pools of up to 113 degrees, with gravel bottoms and split log sides. Nestled in the conifer-dense Payette National Forest, Burgdorf is a hiker’s heaven, with awesome nearby hiking trails like Deep Lake, Ruby Meadows and Josephine Lake (don’t forget the bear spray). Just be sure to return to the springs in time for a dreamy, post-trek sunset soak.

9. Hot Springs Resort and Spa, North Carolina

Nearest town: Hot Springs
Prices from: $45

*Hot Springs Resort and Spa was damaged in recent flooding resulting from Hurricane Helene. Please see this page. Check back in early 2025 if you plan to visit and support this small town.

Though the East Coast isn’t revered for its hot springs, a handful of all-natural warm springs have kept travelers coming back for decades. North Carolina’s is one of the rare destinations where tent campers and RVers can enjoy both nature and the option to book a in a modern, jetted hot tub. The place has also become a favorite stopover for thru-hikers coming off the Appalachian Trail.

Campers can choose from among a myriad of options, which range from primitive tent sites to spacious group sites on the banks of the French Broad River. Not so into roughing it? Check out the resort’s deluxe cabins, complete with kitchenettes.

10. The Country Inn of Berkeley Springs, West Virginia

Nearest town: Berkeley Springs
Prices from: $130 a night

the Country Inn of Berkeley Springs, West Virginia
The Country Inn of Berkeley Springs was in colonial times one of this country’s first warm-spring wellness retreats. Its spa, offering mineral baths, is the round building with the green roof in the upper right. (Photo: Courtesy The Country Inn)

First opened in 1933, this historic colonial-style hotel in the eastern panhandle of West Virginia boasts 70 guest rooms and an that offers everything from mineral baths to sugar scrubs and hot-stone massages.

The tiny hamlet of Berkeley Springs, less than two hours from Baltimore and Washington, D.C., is revered as one of the nation’s first warm-spring wellness retreats, with famous patrons like George Washington frequenting the area. Rooms at are adorned in elegant furnishings, but also provide modern amenities, like flatscreen TVs, mini-fridges, and high-speed Wi-Fi. Don’t miss live music at the Inn’s restaurant on Saturday nights.

11. The Gideon Putnam, New York

Nearest town: Saratoga Springs
Prices from: $229 a night

entry to the colonial style Gideon Putnam hotel in autumn colors
The Gideon Putnam, which contains the Roosevelt Baths and Spa, is in the historic wellness haven of Saratoga Springs, New York, and part of a state park. (Photo: Courtesy Delaware North)

This elegant New York retreat is set a short 35-minute drive from Albany, in the centuries-old wellness haven of Saratoga Springs, which was once visited by the likes of Oscar Wilde and Susan B. Anthony. Today, with updated East Coast colonial-style rooms, some of which are pet-friendly, guests can kick up their feet with modern conveniences like air conditioning, HDTVs, and Wi-Fi.

What truly sets , though, is that it’s the only hotel located inside Saratoga Spa State Park. This National Historic Landmark features two different golf courses, a large swimming-pool complex, and miles of nature trails that transform into a cross-country ski paradise in winter. Be sure to check out the Gideon Putnam’s luxurious Roosevelt Baths and Spa, named in honor of President Franklin D. Roosevelt for his role in helping preserve the Saratoga Springs area, and book yourself a mineral bath and a Muscadine Moonshine Sea Salt Scrub while you’re at it.

Gideon Putnam, Saratoga State Park, New York
In the spa, take a private bath in the area’s famous mineral water. While the water is cold when drawn from the ground, the spa adds hot water. Gideon Putnam is located in Saratoga Spa State Park. (Photo: Courtesy Delaware North)

Emily Pennington is a national-parks expert and self-proclaimed hot-springs addict who’s also a longtime contributor to șÚÁÏłÔčÏÍű. To date, she’s visited every U.S. national park and hiked on all seven continents. Her book, Feral, Losing My Way and Finding Myself in America’s National Parks, was published in 2023. When she’s not frantically typing at her keyboard, you can find her exploring every hot spring known to humanity in her new home state of Colorado.

woman in tub at Mystic Hot Springs, Monroe, Utah.
The author enjoys Mystic Hot Springs, in Monroe, Utah. (Photo: Emily Pennington)

For more by this author, see:

I Visited Every U.S. National Park. My Favorite Might Surprise You.

The Best New Hotels with Easy Access to U.S. National Parks

These 10 National Parks Will Have Timed-Entry Reservations This Year

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9 Fall Camping Deals We’re Eyeing on Tents, Sleeping Bags, and More /outdoor-gear/camping/fall-camping-deals-steep-and-cheap/ Fri, 04 Oct 2024 20:50:35 +0000 /?p=2684166 9 Fall Camping Deals We’re Eyeing on Tents, Sleeping Bags, and More

Steep and Cheap’s autumn sale is really, really good

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9 Fall Camping Deals We’re Eyeing on Tents, Sleeping Bags, and More

Outdoor lovers know that the camping season isn’t over ‘til —depending on what part of the country you’re in, that could mean months of bug-free, crowdless trails before the snow sets in. And luckily for fall backpackers or anyone looking to snag an end-of-season deal, discount online retailer Steep and Cheap is hosting a big fall sale with some serious finds. Whether you’ve got an autumn music festival approaching, a leaf-peeping road trip on the books, or simply want to stock up on cheap finds for next season, we’ve got nine great deals worth checking out.

If you buy through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. This supports our mission to get more people active and outside. Learn more.


Marmot Never Summer Sleeping Bag: 0F Down product image
Marmot Never Summer Sleeping Bag

for $220-223 ($339)

The brilliant canary yellow of this Marmot sleeping bag is part of the brand’s cheery aesthetic makeover. At just 3 lbs. 3 oz., this sleeping bag is also a lightweight, 0-degree option that’ll keep you warm on shoulder season excursions in the high alpine. A two-way zipper allows for easy venting, and a cozy neck baffle helps trap in heat where you need it most.

for $76 ($189)

We rarely see well-reviewed tents on sale for under $80, but this sub-6-pound model from Stoic is currently 60% off. A great starter or festival tent for the casual car camper or backpacker, this two-person tent comes with a two-year manufacturer’s warranty. It also has six interior pockets, making it easy to sort and organize your in-bed essentials, such as a headlamp or tablet reader.

for $42 ($60)

Black Diamond’s 450-lumen Storm Headlamp is a perennial favorite for our backpacking and climbing gear editors, designed for those gnarly alpine starts and post-work trail runs. Its elastic strap is designed to fit over helmets if you’re, say, setting up a portaledge on The Nose, and extra waterproofing means it can withstand a full, accidental submersion.

Eureka! Tagalong Lite Chair product image
Marmot Never Summer Sleeping Bag

$70 for ($100)

It’s tough to find a lightweight, packable camping chair for under $80 these days, but Eureka’s Tagalong Chair hits all the marks and is 30% off right now. Weighing in at 2 lbs. 6 oz., its aluminum frame is sturdy enough to hold a 220-pound person. It also boasts a feature most portable chairs don’t have: a hideaway pocket underneath for small essentials.

for $413-462 ($750)

We’re big fans of Rab’s ultra-warm and packable Mythic sleeping bag, with its chevron-style baffling, 900-fill goose down, and reflective titanium lining. Anything with that kind of fill power seldom comes cheap, which is why we’re stoked to see the brand’s 20-degree sleeping bag go on sale for up to 45% off. At just over 1 lb. 5 oz., this mummy-shaped bag packs serious heat for its weight.

for $382 ($849)

Although much of Marmot’s newer designs target younger multi-sport consumers, the brand’s beefy two-person Thor Tent is a classic mountaineering style made to withstand harsh winds. The 10-pound tent’s six-pole design helps it stand sturdy, even when weighted with snow, and an included patch kit makes it easy to fix issues on the fly. Need more room? The is also on sale for 45% off.

Big Agnes Soul Kitchen Camp Table
Big Agnes Soul Kitchen Camp Table

for $82 ($150)

We’ve covered Steamboat Springs-based brand Big Agnes before, lauding its transformation from a sleeping bag company to one of the best camp outfitters on the planet. The Soul Kitchen Camp Table is another well-reviewed piece of gear that’s proof this company can do much more than sleep sacks. With fresh colors like Brown Trout and Wood (or plain black, if you’re feeling demure), this 4 lb. 8 oz. design is sturdy and packs down to roughly the size of two, 1-liter Nalgenes.

$315 ($450)

The Big Agnes Tiger Wall UL2 Tent might be my all-time favorite backpacking tent. With a packed weight of 2 lbs. 8 oz., it’s light enough for me to haul solo when I want an extra roomy tent or have my dog, Marla, in tow. The tent has also long been a favorite of șÚÁÏłÔčÏÍű’s gear team, notably for its fair pricing, reasonable warranty, and great double-door design. Want even more room to spread out? The three-person is also 30% off.

for $74 ($124)

Stoic’s layback lounge chair is reminiscent of fancy stargazing seats but at a price that won’t break the bank. Made for those who want a La-Z-Boy-style recliner in the great outdoors, the chair’s claim to fame is its zero-gravity rock back and adjustable headrest. A durable steel frame supports up to 350 lbs., and a fabric cupholder means you can kick back with your favorite Athletic Beer in hand.

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11 Great Patagonia Deals We’re Eyeing on Hoodies, Jackets, and More /outdoor-gear/clothing-apparel/patagonia-deals-sept-2024/ Wed, 18 Sep 2024 18:30:52 +0000 /?p=2682271 11 Great Patagonia Deals We’re Eyeing on Hoodies, Jackets, and More

Looking to refresh your cold-weather wardrobe? Don't miss these last-season deals on Patagonia gear.

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11 Great Patagonia Deals We’re Eyeing on Hoodies, Jackets, and More

Gearing up for fall adventures doesn’t have to mean emptying your wallet to splurge on all the latest fads and colorways. For those who don’t mind sporting last season’s designs (we won’t tell), Patagonia just launched a whole slew of to clear their shelves of spring ’24 and earlier stock, and if you’ve followed șÚÁÏłÔčÏÍű for a while, you’ll know we’re big enough fans to do the occasional deep dive on everything from their fleece jackets to their sustainability practices.

From cozy flannels to fleece joggers and mountain-worthy jackets, many of these cool weather essentials have been tested by our team, and are ideal companions when autumn comes a’knocking. also just announced loads of price drops on Patagonia’s eco-friendly fashions, too.

If you buy through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. This supports our mission to get more people active and outside. Learn more.


Patagonia plaid shirt product image
(Photo: Courtesy Patagonia )

Cozy doesn’t have to mean spendy, as proven by this oversized navy flannel. Made in a Fair Trade Certified factory, this heavyweight brushed twill flannel “shacket” comes in deep blues that would easily match most hiking garb for post-trail hangs in your favorite mountain town. Four well-placed pockets, including buttoned pouches on its chest, mean that you can leave your purse behind, too.

As the leaves change and mornings become crisp and chilly, your daily running gear might need a cold weather shift, and șÚÁÏłÔčÏÍű’s been tracking and reviewing the R1 series for years. The R1 fleece zip-neck is warmer than your standard base layer top, yet fits close to the skin, making it ideal for fast-moving or technical pursuits, like shoulder season climbing and hiking. Capilene Cool fabric lines its collar for moisture wicking, and a silver-based HeiQ Pure odor control treatment makes for multiple days of funk-free wear.

Throwback to those tubular 90s color block designs with Patagonia’s Pack In Hoody. Designed as a casual, half-zip pullover with a kangaroo handwarmer pocket, this fall staple sports a 90% recycled polyester shell with a 100% recycled polyester lining and insulation. Plus, its elastic hood and durable water repellent finish make withstanding mellow weather a breeze, whether you’re sidewalk sprinting or caught in a Rocky Mountain thunderstorm.

Patagonia roll-top pack product image
(Photo: Courtesy Patagonia)

Patagonia’s lineup of Fair Trade Certified packs rarely goes on sale, so when it does, we take notice, because these babies routinely make our best-of lists. The Fieldsmith Roll-Top Pack boasts a street-forward style that works well for office commutes, as well as afternoon leaf peeping strolls. This 100% recycled polyester bag can hold a 15-inch laptop with ease and still plenty of room to stash your favorite puffy or shell. A durable water repellent (DWR) finish also means your electronics will be protected when it counts.

Though the R2 TechFace Pants are designed with angler-specific needs in mind, they also double as a great cold weather bottom baselayer, with two zippered thigh pockets and an accessory loop for clipping on your multitool or keys. Designed to resist abrasion caused by waders, shed water and insulate all day long, these trousers are ready for autumn water adventures, from Gauley River rafting to fishing for striped bass.

The Capilene Cool Daily Hoody is one of our all-time favorite sun shirts, suitable for all day slogs up Longs Peak, as well as mellow days floating your local river. Not every state boasts a chilly, leaf peeping wonderland when autumn rolls around, and peakbaggers in warmer climates who hate reapplying sunscreen every 2 hours will appreciate the lightweight UPF 50+ protection that this top offers. HeiQ odor control means that it won’t stink up your ride on the way home, too, as I learned hiking the John Muir Trail with the Capilene back in 2021.

Patagonia barn coat product image
(Photo: Courtesy Patagonia)

The Iron Forge Canvas Barn Coat excels as a durable, insulated work coat that doesn’t look out of place at your favorite saloon. Patagonia’s proprietary Iron Forge Hemp canvas is stronger and more abrasion-resistant than traditional cotton duck canvas, so this jacket is built to last for years, not months.

Finally, a jacket for the indecisive among us. The Tres 3-in-1 Parka offers a thigh-length shell over a hip-length inner down jacket, so you can wear it however you see fit. Toss on the 2-layer weatherproof shell on its own in a downpour, pop the ultra-packable down zip-up into your bag for post-work warmth, or combine them for an insulated parka that can weather any storm. 700-fill power insulation that’s 100% recycled from reclaimed down products will keep any wearer cozy when the weather outside turns sour.

Shaggy fleece jackets are making a comeback this season, and this 100%-recycled quarter-inch pile fleece is no exception. Its funnel-shaped collar helps negate the need for a scarf on blustery days, and two zippered hand pockets should keep your precious digits toasty when temperatures drop. You can even adjust the fit further, to keep out pesky drafts, with tightening button tabs on its wrist cuffs and waist.

Patagonia men's daily jacket product image
(Photo: Courtesy Patagonia)

, for $104 ($149)

Wearing a fleece jacket doesn’t have to mean wrapping yourself in Cookie Monster-like fuzz. The R1 Daily Jacket is a slim-fitting cold weather favorite, with a smooth outer fabric and a soft brushed fleece lining to keep you comfortable on frigid fall and winter pursuits, from apple picking to snowshoeing. The jacket has been outfitted with a number of technical features, too, like a harness-friendly zippered chest pocket, off the shoulder seams designed to prevent chafing under a pack, and a high collar for extra wind protection.

Whether your idea of a good time is a three-week epic on the Colorado River or a peaceful float near town, the fully submersible Guidewater Duffel will stash a veritable mountain of gear and help get it to your end point safe and dry. Durable, 100% recycled nylon makes up its body and webbing straps, while the inner lining and pack straps are recycled polyester. Plus, the bag’s handles can quickly and easily transform into shoulder straps to help you haul it as a monstrous backpack to and from your rig.

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I Visited Every U.S. National Park. My Favorite Might Surprise You. /adventure-travel/national-parks/my-favorite-national-park/ Thu, 15 Aug 2024 10:00:41 +0000 /?p=2678300 I Visited Every U.S. National Park. My Favorite Might Surprise You.

I went to every national park in the U.S. to write a column for șÚÁÏłÔčÏÍű. Readers often ask me which park was my favorite. My answer surprises them.

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I Visited Every U.S. National Park. My Favorite Might Surprise You.

In January of 2020, I packed my entire life into an old Ford Transit minivan, kissed my partner goodbye, and set off to visit every national park in the United States. Along the way, I penned a series of dispatches for șÚÁÏłÔčÏÍű and about all my wild experiences.

Like the time an enormous black bear approached my picnic table in Kings Canyon, California; panicked, I waved my arms overhead like a lunatic and tap-danced on the wooden surface until it finally turned and sauntered into the woods. Or the time I came down with scarlet fever in the Alaskan bush and lolled around in my tent with a high fever for two days, until my bush plane’s return. Or the four days I spent trapped in a Tacoma motel room, waiting out the smoke of the worst wildfire season in U.S. history, before visiting North Cascades.

My year exploring the parks was never boring. In fact, it’s been the biggest adventure of my life.

America’s national parks have some of the most jaw-dropping scenery on the planet. In addition to the iconic topography—hoodoos and canyons in the Southwest, massive trees in California, and geysers that shoot water up hundreds of feet—I’ve also been awed by the green-black waters of Congaree; the magnificence of Denali, North America’s highest peak; and fall foliage in Acadia.

But my absolute favorite park? I get that question a lot, and the answer often surprises people.

My Favorite National Park Is Big Bend, in Texas

A senior woman hikes up a trail toward Big Bend’s Chisos Mountains. The trail is lined with cacti on both sides.
Big Bend is home to the largest expanse of roadless public lands in the state. That means solitude to the max. It also means you should hike with a partner or come prepared to trek without encountering anyone for miles. (Photo: Pchoui/Getty)

I grew up in the suburbs of Houston—in a region I best remember as flat and swampy—and then moved to Los Angeles for college. Because my family wasn’t very outdoorsy, I had no idea that an extraordinary expanse of conifer-topped peaks and narrow river canyons was a day’s drive away. In L.A., IÌę could easily go for a day hike in the Hollywood Hills or spend the weekend exploring San Gabriel Mountains National Monument. The topography, and its proximity to it, started to change me.

Fast-forward 15 years and picture me rolling into Big Bend National Park, delighted and surprised. The pine-freckled Chisos Mountains towered before me. I spent four days roaming the park, canoeing the Rio Grande, soaking in natural hot springs, and trekking ridgelines that afforded panoramic views of the Chihuahuan Desert.

Although Big Bend happened less than two months into my transition to full-time vanlife, the impression it had on me lasted the duration of my trip. Unlike the most popular parks like Rocky Mountain, Big Bend’s natural attractions were unexpected. It was so off the beaten path. But there were many other reasons I fell in love with this West Texas gem. Here are a handful.

You Feel Like You Have Big Bend National Park to Yourself

Relative to its size—it’s the 15th-largest unit in the Park System—and variety of outdoor activities, Big Bend is one of our least-crowded parks outside of Alaska. In 2023, it welcomed just over 500,000 visitors to its 801,163 acres. Yosemite, in comparison, had 3.9 million visitors exploring just 747,956 acres. While visiting Yosemite Valley can feel like Disneyland, Big Bend felt like a serene desert refuge—which can actually be quite colorful and filled with animals:

Big Bend Is a Haven for Backcountry Campers

Want to hike in and pitch your tent at a dispersed site in the Chisos Mountains? Raft a portion of the Rio Grande to a solitary camping zone? Take your four-wheel-drive vehicle down a dirt lane to a with no one else around? There are even a few rugged off-trail wilderness areas where experienced backpackers can trek in and stay the night. The park makes it easy to for any of these, and they’re inexpensive (around $10 per night).

You Can Stargaze Like a Pro in Big Bend

An illuminated tent is pitched between a grove of trees and above, the Milky Way shines in all its brightness.
With so many dispersed campgrounds, finding your own personal dark-sky spot at the park is a cinch. (Photo: ImagoDens/Getty)

Big Bend International Dark Sky Reserve is the largest Dark Sky-certified place in the world. Nearby offer observatory access, and the park hosts throughout the year. While I visited at the end of winter, I was still dazzled by the twinkling Milky Way above my campsite one clear night.

The Canyons in Big Bend Are Totally Impressive

Hiking, canoeing, whitewater rafting, and birdwatching are just a few ways to enjoy the handful of major canyons in Big Bend. (Photo: Stacey Campbell/500px/Getty)

I was utterly wowed by the majestic canyons in Big Bend—and that’s saying something, given how many national-park canyons I enjoyed in the Southwest. I can recommend two short, easy hikes that take in some of the park’s canyon highlights:

  • : To get to the trailhead, which is located on the western side of the park, drive the length of the view-studded Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive, passing rock formations that resemble mules ears and the lumpy, volcanic Tuff Canyon, and parking at the lot at the end of the road. I spent an evening strolling this 1.4-mile out-and-back trail, which winds along the bottom of 1,500-foot-tall canyon walls (a nesting site for many birds) bordering the Rio Grande.
  • : On the eastern side of the park, this impressive 1.3-mile round-trip jaunt takes you near the Boquillas Del Carmen border crossing into Mexico. Go in the morning, as I did, for the best light on the caramel-colored limestone walls.

It’s worth noting that you can explore both of these canyons via boat. I signed up for a guided excursion with Ìę(from $82) and can recommend this local outfitter. It offers a range of options, from half-day to multiday trips.

There’s a Great Hot Springs Site in Big Bend for Post-Trek Soaking

The author lazes in Boquillas Hot Springs, looking upstream at the Rio Grande.
The heat of these hot springs is believed to be restorative, as are their mineral content, which includes calcium carbonate, calcium sulfate, sodium sulfate, sodium chloride, and lithium. (Photo: Courtesy Emily Pennington)

After three days of nonstop park exploration, my muscles were sore, so I was happy to hear about a two-wheel-drive-accessibleÌęhot spring inside Big Bend: Boquillas Hot Springs.

The stone ruins of an early-1900s resort surround this naturally fed soaking pool, tucked against the cool water of the Rio Grande. From the Chisos Basin Visitor Center, head east for 28 miles; the last two miles are down the bumpy, dirt Hot Springs Road, which ends at a parking lot. From there it’s an easy half-mile hike to the springs, where 105-degree pools and great views across the river into Mexico await.

Big Bend’s Gateway Town Is Weird, Wonderful, and Definitely Worth a Stop

An exterior shot of the Starlight Theatre in Terlingua, Texas, with two young women standing outside the entrance at dusk.
The Starlight Theatre has long been a hub of Terlingua. Here you can try an antelope burger, listen to live music, and hang out on the porch with locals and travelers alike. (Photo: The Washington Post/Getty)

Big Bend boasts one of the coolest gateway towns of any national park. From its sincerely sweet (from $249) and curious ghost town to some of the finest smoked meats I’ve ever eaten, found at DB’s Rustic Iron BBQ, and splurge-worthy post-hike massages at Desert Lotus Healing Arts, tiny Terlingua offers loads to do when you’re not exploring the park.

My Runner-Up: Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve, Alaska

The spiky Arrigetch Peaks tower above a glacial valley cut through by a river.
The Arrigetch Peaks, a national natural landmark within the park, rise as much as 4,000 feet from its glacial valley. Glaciers still dot the area. (Photo: Courtesy Emily Pennington)

With so many wildly different U.S. national parks, it’s nearly impossible to choose just one favorite. Though Gates of the Arctic is exceedingly tough to get to for most travelers, that remoteness allows for incredible magic. Here’s why I loved it.

Gates of the Arctic National Park Is Massive

Boasting nearly 8.5 million acres, Gates of the Arctic is the second-largest national park in the country. That’s really hard to fathom. It’s larger than ten Yosemites or eight Glaciers. Mountains and rivers seem to spill out forever here, and I felt like I had a gigantic playground all to myself.

A Trip to Gates of the Arctic Is a True șÚÁÏłÔčÏÍű

No roads or trails cut through Gates of the Arctic, so plan on hiking, boating, or flying in by bush plane. This remoteness means that solitude is easy to find and wildlife live in a setting largely removed from human contact, giving travelers a true wilderness experience. I sincerely relished those aspects after having to deal with the bus schedules of Denali.

I signed up for a guided group expedition with , which is based in Anchorage and offers all kinds of epic hiking and rafting trips into the park (from $6,195)

Gates of the Arctic Is an Incredible Place for Wildlife-Watching

A caribou with huge antlers stands atop a hill in the Alaskan Arctic.
Alaska’s herd of Western Arctic caribou is one of the largest in the world and it migrates over terrain the size of California each year. (Photo: Dennis Welker/Getty)

Loads of charismatic megafauna, like grizzly bears, caribou, musk oxen, and Dall’s sheep, call Gates of the Arctic home. Many of the area’s 500,000-member Western Arctic caribou herd migrates through the park each fall.

To Say the Gates of the Arctic Scenery Is Spectacular Is an Understatement

The Arrigetch Peaks are, hands down, one of the most beautiful landscapes I’ve ever laid eyes on. A bush plane dropped my guide and I off near the Arrigetch Valley, on the banks of the Alatna River, and we set off on a 12-mile off-trail hike to these jagged pinnacles, which are part of the central Brooks Range. We slept in tents and spent days exploring the granite slopes and aquamarine alpine lakes in the area. While this experience might not be for everyone, anyone willing to put in the miles will experience sublime natural beauty.

The author, carrying a big backpack and trekking poles, sets off across the Alaskan backcountry on a hike.
The author starting her backcountry hike through Gates of the Arctic in the fallÌę(Photo: Courtesy Emily Pennington)

Frequent șÚÁÏłÔčÏÍű contributor Emily Pennington wrote a book about her experience of visiting all 63 national parks: , published in 2023. Next year she plans on returning to Gates of the Arctic to raft the Noatak River.

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