Megan McCrea

Contributing Writer, Via

McWay Falls against a turquoise ocean on a sunny day.

7 Scenic Waterfall Road Trips

The ultimate road trip prize? A stunning cascade. Here’s where to find them.
Fall colors in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks.

Best National Parks to Visit in the Fall

Enjoy shoulder season in the West’s great outdoors, from sunset-hued landscapes to hidden geysers.
A man rows a raft in Nevills Rapid on the Colorado River in Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona.

8 National Parks to Explore by Boat, Raft, or Kayak

Kayak Yellowstone Lake, raft through the Grand Canyon, surf in Redwood National Park, and more.
Colorful Havasu Falls at sunset.

Arizona's Best Waterfalls

Chase rushing cascades at these 5 spots.
Eastern Grey Squirrel sitting on vehicle tire.

How to Keep Animals Out of Your Car

Rats and marmots and snakes, oh my! Keep wildlife wild—and out of your engine.
Sunrise at Hurricane Ridge in Olympic National Park, Washington.

6 Travel-List Experiences, Right Here in the West

Whatever your dream, you can make it come true, here in your own backyard.
Red rocks against blue sky at the Valley of the Gods in Utah.

Off-the-Beaten Path Places to Visit

7 suggestions for taking the road less traveled.
Riders slide down the large tubing hill at Woodward Park City in Utah.

The Best Places to Tube and Sled in the West

From local hills to speed runs, these spots delight kids and adults alike.
A person browses the shelves at Powell's Bookstore in Portland, Oregon.

Portland's Beloved Powell’s Bookstore

The iconic Oregon bookstore turns 50 this year.
Jordan Winery brick building against lush green grounds.

5 Cozy Fall Destinations in the West

Changing leaves, warm drinks, and scenic walks await.
Cape Blanco lighthouse and wildflowers (lupine) with clouds in Port Orford, Oregon

Celebrating Cape Blanco Lighthouse

One hundred fifty years ago, Oregon's loneliest lighthouse was born, bringing hope to mariners.
view of Laguna Beach from Crescent Cove in California

4 Beachy Spring Break Destinations

These 4 destinations in California and Oregon promise plenty of coastal fun for spring break.
Snow kiter harnesses free wind energy on bright, cloudless day.

Extraordinary Winter Sports

Try new activities this season, like bobsledding, snow shoeing, dog sledding, or curling.
A woman skis down a run at Winter Park Resort in Colorado, photo

An Insider’s Guide to Winter Park, Colorado

More than 3,000 acres of deep, groomed snow await at one of the West’s most beloved resorts.
San Francisco audium interior, circular room with chairs, photo

San Francisco's Audium: A Journey for Your Ears

An absorbing auditory journey awaits at San Francisco's Audium.