Chris Woolston

Contributing Writer, Via

Chris Woolston is a freelance science and travel writer living in his hometown of Billings, Montana. He writes for Nature, Knowable and other publications, but Via is his favorite. No other magazine has given him a chance to see polar bears in the wild. He enjoys playing racquetball, fly fishing in mountain lakes, and spending time with his family and his Poodle-mix menagerie.

Articles by Chris Woolston

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.

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.

Tourists look at the Grand Prismatic Spring at Yellowstone’s Midway Geyser Basin.

Yellowstone After the Flood

Yellowstone has some recovery to do after the recent floods, but the park and surrounding towns are still welcoming visitors.

River rafters float downt he Rogue River.

River Getaways in the West

Swim, raft, fish, kayak, or just splash around at nine Western waterways.

A business man packs a rolling carry-on suitcase on a white bedspread, image

How to Safely Pack Medications to Travel

Putting all your medications in one bottle can save space in your luggage, but it can also be risky.

Cars on the freeway at night with an orange sunset in the background, photo

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.

Yaquina Bay Bridge in Newport, Oregon at sunset.

7 Scenic Drives in the West

Answer the call of the open road with trips to see rivers, craggy coasts, and mountain passes.

solo hiker takes in the panoramic view of Mount Rainier from Pinnacle Peak Trail in Washington

Volcanoes of the West

Experience these majestic marvels and the charming towns that surround them.

A beautiful reservoir in autumn fields at the foot of the Bridger mountain range in Cherry Creek Nature Preserve, picture

Escape to Bozeman, Montana in Autumn

Not just a stop en route to Yellowstone, this thriving Montana city earns its destination status.

A hiker stands at Glacier Point overlooking the Yosemite Valley, image

10 Awe-Inspiring Geological Wonders in the West

The West's national parks and monuments reveal stories of geological upheaval and transformation.

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.

group of bison in Lamar Valley field at Yellowstone National Park

Secrets of Yellowstone National Park

Find the best spots—and skip the crowds—at America’s original national park.

Seeley Lake historical museum in Montana, picture

Seeley Lake, Montana: 5 Things We Love

This charming Montana town is set among towering pines, a sparkling glacial lake, and scenic byways.

facade of the Irma Hotel, in Cody, Wyoming.

Top Things to Do in Cody, Wyoming

Buffalo Bill's classic Western hub offers unexpected city-slicker delights.