Hikers walk on the Lakes Trail overlooking Lookout Lake with Medicine Bow in the background.

Via Magazine
May/June 2024

A hiker overlooks Williwaw Lakes in Chugach State Park, near Anchorage, Alaska, in summer.

21 Best Hikes Across the West

From azure alpine lakes to vibrant red rocks, delicate wildflowers to staggering redwoods—these hikes have it all without the hard-to-get permits, timed entry, or jockeying at the trailhead that are common at many national parks across the West.

Gentle Barn Founder, Ellie, with cow, Maybelle, at the sanctuary in California.

8 Ethical Animal Sanctuaries to Visit in the West

Something awakens inside people when we encounter animals up close: the electric thrill of gazing into the wild eyes of a wolf or raptor, the surge of affection when we hug an alpaca or a cow, the playful spirit we feel on seeing a goat or reindeer romp. These connections resonate with an untamed, natural, wiser part of ourselves.

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A visitor overlooks Dead Horse Point State Park in Utah.

Episode 3: Make it a State Park Summer with Peter Fish

Avoid the crowds and visit a state park when the nature urge strikes. Hosts Michelle Donati and Mitti Hicks chat with travel journalist and parks expert Peter Fish to discover the lesser-known state parks throughout the vast West.

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Adventures in the West

Downieville's historic buildings line a street through the core of the town.

Road Trip Through the Lost Sierra

Follow the winding ribbon of the Yuba River up the northernmost stretch of Highway 49, passing one tempting swimming hole after another, and you’ll feel like you’ve stumbled on a secret corner of the Sierra that time forgot.

Aerial view of the Giant Dipper coaster at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk in California.

Fun on the Boardwalk and Beyond in Santa Cruz, California

Take a thrilling ride on the 100-year-old Giant Dipper coaster at the boardwalk before exploring more of what this laid-back beach town has to offer.

The vineyards at Dancin Vineyards in Medford, Oregon.

A Weekend in Rogue Valley, Oregon

Just over the California border in southern Oregon, the Rogue Valley makes an ideal getaway for a long weekend, especially in summer, when the days are long and temperatures are balmy. Whether you’re in the mood for hiking, winetasting, or exploring a historic downtown, you’ll find delights here for the entire family.

Smart Tips

A woman talks on the phone at the airport gate while waiting for her flight.

8 Tips to Avoid Fraud and Scams While Traveling

Prevent your dream vacation from turning into a nightmare. Learn how to spot and avoid these common travel scams.

A mechanic prepares a tool in a AAA repair shop

How to Find a Quality Auto Mechanic

Follow these five easy steps to create a beneficial and positive relationship with your auto mechanic.

Pest free, clean white kitchen.

How to Keep Pests Out of Your Home

All sorts of critters—cockroaches, ants, mosquitoes, rodents, and more—are eager to make their way into your home. Here’s how to prevent these unwanted guests.

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Fire Cave Arch with the White Domes in the distance in Nevada's Valley of Fire State Park.

President’s Letter: Road Trip Season is Calling

Be sure to have AAA along for the journey.

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