Jill K. Robinson

Contributing Writer, Via

Red and pink rocks glow in Valley of Fire State Park in Nevada.

8 Best State Parks to Visit in Winter

Enjoy nature with plenty of elbow room.
Three cross-country skiers on a trail at Lone Mountain Ranch in Big Sky Montana.

Best Beginner Cross-Country Skiing Spots in the West

Head out to these Nordic skiing hot spots, ideal for first-timers and beginner skiers.
Skiers and snowboarders at the top of Big Dipper at Heavenly Mountain Resort in Tahoe, Nevada.

6 Best Places to Ski and Snowboard in Nevada and Utah

These stellar ski areas deserve a spot on your list.
a family sitting on snow overlooking a snow-topped mountain with the sun

8 Tips for a Less Expensive Ski Weekend

Next time you hit the ski slopes, ease your wallet with these simple tips.
McWay Falls in Big Sur, California in fall at sunset, image

7 Beautiful Coastal Hikes in the West

Explore the coast on foot with these memorable hikes.
Sunset view from the overlook on Cape Royal in Grand Canyon North Rim in the Grand Canyon

Hidden Delights in the West’s Top National Parks

You’ve seen the major highlights. Now it’s time to experience these lesser-known delights.
Mountain campsite views from tent, picture

The Best Places to Rent Camping Gear

Don't spend your whole paycheck on new camping gear. Rent from one of these companies instead.
Whale watching overlook in MacKerricher State Park, image

Whale Watching Weekend Trip to Mendocino, CA

Redwood groves, a lofty lighthouse, gray whales. It’s time for some salty air.
A whale tail visible above the water in Monterey Bay, image

Whale Watching in Northern California and Oregon

The Pacific Coast has some of the best places for whale watching—you don’t even have to leave land.