Chris Woolston

Contributing Writer, Via

two young women look at a cell phone in a car

Tips to Avoid Driving Distractions

Put down the electronics (and the food) when you get behind the wheel.
pair of Monterey pines tower above China Cove at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve near Carmel, California

Best State Parks in the Western U.S.

Not just the prettiest. Not just the most popular. The best state parks in the West.
Canoes and row boats on the dock at Swiftcurrent Lake in Glacier National Park, Montana.

9 Quintessential Montana Experiences

Get to know the state like a local.
Snowshoe trail leads to heated yurts in Arizona’s Coconino National Forest

Powder Play: No-Ski Snow Vacations

You don't have to ski to have fun in the snow.
Northern lights in Tromsø, Norway

23 Unexpected Places to Visit

See something new at one of these lesser-traveled, unique destinations.
Lake Como in Montana's Bitterroot Valley on a winter's day.

Road-Trip Through Montana’s Bitterroot Valley

In-the-know locals treasure the valley as a place to relax, explore, and refresh any season of the year.
Airbag warning on a vehicle dashboard.

How Does an Airbag Work?

Learn what makes an airbag inflate.
Yaquina Bay Bridge in Newport, Oregon at sunset.

10 Scenic Drives in the West

Answer the call of the open road with trips to see rivers, craggy coasts, and mountain passes.
A mother and child walk outside at Chico Hot Springs in Pray, Montana with the mountains in the background.

Road-Trip Through Paradise Valley, Montana

Take your time as you snake through the Yellowstone River’s resilient towns.
two hikers snow shoe at Mount Hood

3 Top Nature Spots for Winter Fun

Yellowstone, Mt. Hood, and Bryce Canyon offer dramatic snowy landscapes and outdoor excursions.
Cars on the freeway at night with an orange sunset in the background.

7 Smart Tips for Driving Safely in the Dark

These smart tips will keep you safe when you have to drive at dawn, dusk, and night.
fog hugs the hillside in Olympic National Park.

Welcome to Beautiful Cascadia

The beautiful bioregion woos nature lovers with redwoods, rushing rivers, and awe-inspiring animals.
a picture of Pando Forest in Utah during fall with golden leaves on the aspens

14 Best Fall Trips in the West

Stunning autumn foliage, mild temperatures, and crowd-free attractions reward fall travelers.
Teen in the drivers seat of a red car.

How to Prepare Teen Drivers

Parents can help teenagers stay safe on the road by following a few guidelines.
A horseshoe bend at Rowena Crest can test a driver's mettle.

Columbia River Highway: Oregon's Scenic Gorge Drive

Savor the scenic Columbia River Gorge with 70-mile road trip along the state's northern edge.