1. Chush Falls

Trail Stats:

• Distance from Bend:
• Distance: 5.5 miles
• Elevation Gain: 853 ft
• Starting Elevation: 4,446 ft

Chush Falls is about 40 minutes past Sisters, OR but is one of my favorite hikes, but is probably for more experienced hikers as there are sometimes trees to climb over and a couple of scrambles. You will drive on a bumpy gravel road for the last couple of miles, until you reach the small parking area. There was a fire up there, so the beginning and end of your out-and-back hike will be sunny and exposed. The trail to Lower Chush falls is easy and technically ends at the top of the hill where the waterfall is visible.

2. No Name Lake & Broken Top

I’m usually a “waterfalls or bust” kind of hiker, especially in Oregon. But what this lacks in waterfalls makes up for with a varied trail, stunning views, and a “nameless” glacial lake. This is one of my favorite hikes of all time. Although long and strenuous, it is super rewarding. Just note it is very busy in the summer and you’ll need to make reservations in advance online through www.recreation.gov. (here’s the Three Sisters – Todd Trailhead link where reservations can be made. The All Trails link below starts at the Todd Lake Trailhead!)

Trail Stats:

• Distance: 14 miles
• Starting Elevation: 6,200 ft
• Elevation Gain: 2,657 ft

3. Misery Ridge & River Trail at Smith Rock State Park

This is a super unique hike in the Bend area. Misery Ridge is actually misery and all of the elevation gain is right at the beginning. There are many areas to pull over and rest on the way up though, no shame in that game. Once you get through Misery Ridge, you’re rewarded with an amazing view at the top and really the entire way down the backside next to Monkey Face Rock. The river trail is beautiful and you’ll likely see rock climbers.

Trail Stats:

• Distance: 3.6 Miles
• Starting Elevation:
• Elevation Gain: 908 ft

5. Proxy Falls

Proxy Falls Trail #3532 is an easily accessible and very popular waterfall. The first part of the trail is very exposed (think lava fields), so get an early start! This waterfall is over 200 feet tall and absolutely stunning.

Trail Stats:

• Distance: 1.6 miles
• Starting Elevation: 3,100 ft
• Elevation Gain: 164 ft

4. Tumalo Falls

Tumalo Falls has endless trail variations, and I normally do the loop that is about 10 miles, but by the last mile, I’m never having fun, so I recommend doing an out-and-back from Tumalo Falls to Happy Valley. You’ll see plenty of waterfalls, and Happy Valley really is so happy on a sunny day!

Trail Stats:

• Distance: 7.5 miles
• Starting Elevation: 5,000 ft
• Elevation Gain: 1,230 ft

6. Tamolitch Falls (Blue Pool)

You’ve probably seen this stunning blue pool all over Instagram. This is a “looking” pool, not a “swimming” pool with ice-cold temperatures of 37 degrees Fahrenheit year-round. You can learn more about this pool on the Willamette National Forest website.

Trail Stats:

• Distance: 3.9 miles
• Starting Elevation: 2200 ft
• Elevation Gain: 351 ft

7. Three Creek Lake Trail

This specific trail is a short out-and-back with a beautiful view of the lake.

But like any trail system, can be combined with many other trails to make it a little lengthier.

Harder option: Take this to Tam McArthur Rim trail and go all the way to Broken Hand & No Name Lake (roughly 9-10 miles out & back).

Trail Stats:

• Distance: 1.1 miles
• Starting Elevation: 6,550 feet
• Elevation Gain: 278 ft

Now that you know where to hike, where are you going to stay? Check out our blog post on Where to Stay In Bend, Oregon.

The post 7 Best Hikes Near Bend, Oregon appeared first on Sites Worth Seeing.

Looking for the best hikes in Salt Lake City? Here are some of the best and most scenic hikes near Salt Lake City, ranging from just 1 mile long, to up to 8 miles long roundtrip.

1. Bloods Lake to Clayton Peak Hike

Even though we didn’t make it to the tip top of Clayton’s Peak (there are some pretty sketchy boulders for the last 500 feet and we hit some bad weather) the view on this hike was breathtaking. There is transit to the Bloods Lake trailhead and a few others since parking fills up early. Visit UtahOpenLands.org to learn more about public transit. We decided to wait in line for parking and it was only about 30 minutes.

Trail Stats:

• Distance: 5.3 miles
• Starting Elevation: 9,219 ft
• Elevation Gain: 1,650 ft

2. Red Pine Lake and Gloria Falls Hike

This out-and-back has a significant elevation gain, but is varied and beautiful. You can even see down to Salt Lake City from portions of the trail. At the top, you’re rewarded with a beautiful and serene lake. In early August we still saw tons of wildflowers. Gloria Falls is only about a quarter mile round trip off the main path and worth seeing. A lot of people just went to Gloria Falls, so the crowd lessened after the Gloria Falls turnoff about a mile in.

Trail Stats:

• Distance: 7.7 miles
• Starting Elevation: 7,714 ft
• Elevation Gain: 2,288 ft

3. Stewart Cascade Trail #056 Hike

About an hour from Salt Lake City is the Stewart Cascade Trail. This is a heavily trafficked out & back which leads you to Stewart Falls, a two-tiered waterfall. When you hit the rock vista (which seems like the end), stand on the rock and turn away from the falls and you’ll see where the trail continues.

Trail Stats:

• Distance: 3.5 Miles
• Starting Elevation: 6,800 ft
• Elevation Gain: 652 ft

4. Ensign Peak Hike

This short hike is best at the end of the day, so you can watch the sunset over the Great Salt Lake, while getting a great view of the city and the Wasatch Mountains. This is a popular place to end the day, so get there early for parking and to give yourself time for the walk up. If you’re not used to the elevation, it might take you a little longer than usual.

Trail Stats:

• Distance: 1 mile
• Starting Elevation: 5,367 ft
• Elevation Gain: 374 ft

Looking for other outdoor activities in Northern Utah? Check out my post on the 12 Best Things to Do in Park City, Utah in the Summer.

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If you’re driving in, you can follow these things to do in order starting on the Golden Gate Bridge side of the city. If you’re flying in, you’ll flip-flop this list as you’ll be starting on the Bay Bridge side of the city.

The best time to visit San Francisco

Have you ever heard the Mark Twain quote “The coldest winter I ever spent was a summer in San Francisco”? Well, it’s true. Summer months in San Francisco are cold and foggy, while fall is the most pleasant with many days sunny and 70. But even in the fall, still dress in layers. The wind from the bay is very cold once the sun goes down and you’ll see many people walking around in puffer jackets.

Here are the best things to do in San Francisco that are unique to this city.

1. Drive, Walk, or Bike On The Golden Gate Bridge

I know, this one is a given, but hear me out.

Even if you’ve been to San Francisco before, it is actually cool to be on the Golden Gate Bridge and see just how big it really is!

If you’re driving: there is a toll to enter into San Francisco using this bridge ($9.75 at the time of writing this, but check here for toll information). No cash is needed, they just take a picture of your license plate and mail you an invoice.

If you’re walking/biking: it’s free to walk and bike across. Be aware of the biking and walking lanes on the sidewalk! The closest parking is at the Round House Cafe and Welcome Center and is $5 per hour (you can check the latest pricing here).

2. Get Coffee and Breakfast at Round House Cafe

I can’t think of a more San Fransico view, especially if it’s your first time here. The prices are reasonable and the drinks and breakfast sandwich are delicious. Grab a window seat and enjoy. During my visit here in late October, I was fortunate enough to see whales in the bay from this window. The closest parking is at the Round House Cafe and Welcome Center and is $5 per hour (you can check the latest pricing here) but the lot fills up quickly.

3. Fort Point National Historic Site

• Entry Fee: Free
• Parking: Free
• Open: Thursday – Monday, 10 AM – 5 PM

Fort Point National Historic Site is free and allows you to explore the fort under the Golden Gate Bridge. Once inside, if you climb the spiral staircase to the roof of the fort you have spectacular views of the Golden Gate Bridge, the Bay, the Coastline, and San Francisco. There are self-guided walking tours through the fort as well. It’s a pretty unique experience!

4. Land’s End & the Sutro Baths Ruins

The Sutro Baths was a public bathhouse with 7 pools all varying in temperature and was fed by the Pacific Ocean. It opened in 1894 with the ability to hold 10,000 people at a time. Concerts, art, swimming, and slides made it an all-day destination. Popularity dwindled during the Great Depression and it was converted to an ice-skating rink. By 1964 developers were starting demolition to put up high-rise apartments, but a fire in 1966 took what was left of the baths. It became part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area in 1973. You can check out the full history on the National Park Website. And if this is fascinating to you, you can also take a free tour through SF City Guides.

This forested trail has beautiful views of the Golden Gate Bridge and is an easy walk. On Sunny Saturdays, it is BUSY (expect to be walking in a line of people), but if you go out early in the morning, you’re more likely to miss the crowds.

5. Camera Obscura

• Entry Fee: $3 per person (Cash Only)
• Parking: Free
• Open: Check online for current hours

Down the stairs and behind the old Cliff House you’ll find the Camera Obscura and Holograph Gallery. In this design created by Leonardo da Vinchi in the 15th century, the top part of the building uses mirrors that act as a camera, while inside the building is a dark room that gives you a live-video-type view of what is outside. You’ll spend just a few minutes inside, but if you have an interest in photography or think science is cool, drop by the Giant Camera.

6. Ocean Beach

Visit Ocean Beach to experience the quieter part of the city. You might see surfers, kite flyers, or beach volleyball players here depending on the time of year. I have also seen dolphins in these waters playing in the surf!

7. Dutch Windmill and Queen Wilhelmina Garden

From Ocean Beach, you can walk to the Dutch Windmill and Queen Wilhelmina Garden at the edge of Golden Gate Park. I usually stop at the Safeway on the way and buy lunch for a picnic, then sit among the beautiful seasonal tulip blooms. This windmill was built in 1903 and was originally purchased to bring water into Golden Gate Park but was only in service for about 10 years. There is a windmill on both entry points into Golden Gate Park from the Ocean Beach side, the other is the Murphy Windmill.

8. Golden Gate Park

Golden Gate Park is in the Top 5 most visited urban parks in the United States and offers endless activities. You can golf, visit a lake, or take a segway tour. Check out gardens like the Shakespeare Garden, the Japanese Tea Garden, or the Conservatory of Flowers. Or spend time in the Music Concourse area and visit the De Young Museum and the California Academy of Sciences. If you want a little less “city” there is a lot to enjoy in Golden Gate Park. Plus there is a free shuttle bus that can take you through the 1,017-acre park.

9. Painted Ladies at Alamo Square Park

If you’re a fan of Full House and are ready to have your “Full House” moment, head to the Painted Ladies across from Alamo Square Park. Parking can be a challenge, but once you find a spot, you can join the others sitting on the hillside enjoying the view.

10. Pier 39, Fisherman’s Wharf & Ghiradelli Square Area

With about a mile encompassing these areas, I tend to group them together. Jefferson Street connects these areas and will keep you entertained with its endless shops, restaurants, and novelty stores. Pier 39 is the famous Pier that has all of the Sea Lions on the left side of the pier out towards the end.

11. Lombard Street

I recommend going to the bottom of Lombard Street on Leavenworth & Lombard for the best view of the “Crookedest Street in the World”. I don’t recommend driving its eight hairpin turns. But it’s great to look at!

12. Coit Tower

13. Alcatraz Island

At the top of Telegraph Hill lies the famous Coit Tower, built in 1933. The ground floor of Coit Tower and the murals are free to access, plus you’ll get some pretty great views of the city. If you want to go to the top there is a per-person fee. Parking near Coit Tower is limited, so the Filbert Steps or Greenwich Steps are your best bet.

If you’re into history or live near the area and have never been before, Alcatraz Island is worth the visit. It’s perfectly eery and housed some of the most notorious criminals.

Alcatraz Island is a part of the National Park Service and the only ferry company that contracts with them to actually access the island is Alcatraz City Cruises LLC. I definitely recommend doing the “Doing Time: The Alcatraz Cellhouse Audio Tour”, it was great!

The Alcatraz website tells you to plan for weather to change and they are right. I had a little bit of blue sky when I arrived and it was drizzling by the time I left.

14. Farmer’s Market at the Ferry Building

The Ferry Building hosts Farmer’s Markets three days per week, with the largest market on Saturday. The historic Ferry Building is already a great place to browse, but the market brings a plethora of food and liveliness to the area. This is a great stop for breakfast or lunch, or to stock up on fresh fruits and vegetables if you’re in town for a few days.

• Open: Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday
• Parking: The Farmer’s Market validates parking for a discounted rate at Four Embarcadero Center. I usually park in Golden Gateway Garage since it is $8 for all-day parking on Saturdays and about a 7-minute walk to the Ferry Building. You can check out the Farmer’s Market Website for more details.

15. Bernal Heights Park

Retreat to Bernal Heights Park to get a great view of San Francisco. Parking is free and you can take a short hike to the peak to get 360-degree views.

The post 15 Best Things to Do in San Francisco appeared first on Sites Worth Seeing.

Hotels in Bend, Oregon

When selecting a hotel, I consider location, amenities included with the property, distance to what I’m there to see, cost, and I require access to at least a kitchenette. I need a fridge and microwave! Here’s where I would recommend staying, in no particular order.

The Element Hotel in Downtown Bend

The Element in Bend is ideal if you’re looking for easy access to downtown, great freeway access, and want to stay in something modern without sacrificing function.

And if you’re a Marriott Rewards Member, see about using your points for your stay! You can even use your points to reduce the out-of-pocket cost.

Property Highlights:

• Each room has a kitchenette
• Complimentary Continental Breakfast
• Super comfortable bed
• The bathrooms have doors! (it’s hilarious to me that I even have to mention that, but in the world of trendy, sliding barn doors, it’s worth noting that these bathrooms are in fact, more functional and have real doors)
• Complimentary bicycle use (subject to availability)
• Complimentary Happy Hour (when I was there they were serving wine, cheese, olives, crackers, and beer)
• Communal outdoor area with comfortable, modern furniture and cornhole
• Walking distance to downtown (great for the Thursday night Munch & Music Free Concert Series at Drake Park)
• Walking distance to a park across the street
• Free parking
• .5 miles from the Albertson’s Grocery Store
• a 2 minute drive to the last Blockbuster in the United States!

I loved my stay at the Element and didn’t want to leave.

Seventh Mountain Resort in Bend, Oregon

Ok technically not a hotel, but worth considering! Seventh Mountain Resort always feels like summer camp to me. Nestled at the base of Mt. Bachelor in the heart of Central Oregon’s Cascade Mountains, it offers a perfect blend of relaxation and outdoor adventure. I love this place because I don’t actually feel like I HAVE to leave unless I really want to. And if you’re a Wyndham Rewards member, consider using your points for your stay!

Property Highlights:

• Multiple Pools & Hot Tubs
• Sauna
• Mini-Golf
• Gym
• BBQ’s (BYO charcoal)
• Fire pits (although these are not turned on during a very dry fire season)
• Weekend Entertainment
• Large Lawn
• Short hike and pond on the property
• Restaurant on site
• Giant lawn games
• Free Parking
• Close to the Cascade Lakes Welcome/Ranger Station, where you’ll need to get your parking passes for hiking and biking in the area
• Great proximity to numerous hiking and biking trails in the Mt. Bachelor area

You can check out the full list of what they have to offer (but things I don’t personally use – like Tennis Courts and Playgrounds) on their website.

Seventh Mountain River Company is operated out of here too, so for an additional cost, you can take the bus from Seventh Mountain Resort and go White Water Rafting on the Deschutes River!

White water rafting honestly wasn’t for me, but other people in my raft loved it. Just note that the 1.5 hours on the website includes load-in and drive time in each direction, so you’re not on the water for the full 90 minutes.

Hotels in the Bend, Oregon Old Mill District

I personally love the Old Mill District. I haven’t stayed overnight in this area, but the Hilton Garden Inn Bend, Residence Inn by Marriott Bend, and My Place Hotel-Bend all are great choices for hotels in Bend. On my next trip, I’ll probably try the Hilton Garden Inn for those river views!

Location Highlights:

• In the Old Mill District
• Great access to riverfront restaurants, coffee shops, and shopping
• Easy access to the Deschutes River Trail (a paved trail lining the river)
• Great access to main roads and highways
• 1 mile or less from Downtown/Old Town Bend
• All of these hotels have microwaves and mini-refrigerators in each room at a minimum

Hope this has helped you find the right place for you! Let me know your favorite places to stay in Bend in the comments.

The post Where to Stay in Bend, Oregon appeared first on Sites Worth Seeing.

Overview:

• Hotel Breakers Pros & Cons
• Hotel Breakers Map
• All Day Dining & Drinks Wristbands for Cedar Point
• The Cedar Point App
• What to Wear

Hotel Breakers at Cedar Point

We stayed at Cedar Point’s Hotel Breakers, a historic hotel minutes from the Cedar Point Amusement Park entrance. This hotel was not inexpensive, especially for the quality, but you’re paying for the convenience of the location, 1-hour early entry, and free parking. In our case, we were able to add in drink packages for free too. But the photos were accurate, the beds were decent and the water was hot. Just be sure to browse their Hotel Packages to see what you can get included with your stay.

Pros:

• Walking distance to both park entrances.
• 1-Hour early entry to the park
• Easy one-stop ticket/hotel/drink package/food package purchase
• Easy access to the beach at Lake Erie! It was beautiful and my first time to a Great Lake!
• Re-entry to the park is easy (just ask on your way out) and you can easily swap out clothing or go to your room for a quick rest.
• Hot tub, pool, and fire pit areas were available (although I didn’t use them, many did!).
• They’ll hold your luggage so you can enter the park the day you arrive!

Cons:

• No coffee makers in the room, but there is a Starbucks downstairs. The line is SUPER long in the mornings.
• For the price tag, I would have expected it to be a little cleaner. But nothing outrageous.

Overall, I would stay here again.

Hotel Breakers Layout & Map

This map is what I wish I had when booking this hotel. I wanted to ensure we were close to the two entrances that open 1-hour early, and we like a high floor. The “Main Wing” is the Rotunda area, which is beautiful and 5 stories, but sound travels in this area due to the Starbucks and Surf Lounge (aka bar) at the bottom. I’m sure the view of Lake Erie is awesome in their suites though!

The Tower Wing has 10 floors and we were satisfied with the noise level even being by the elevator, granted, we do travel with a white noise machine that we always put on. (Click here for a list of my travel essentials). We were also about a 5-minute walk to one of the park entrances.

All Day Dining & Drink Wristbands

This was a bucket list trip, so we opted to get the All Day Dining and Drink wristbands. I was super happy with this decision. You can get an entree and a side from almost any restaurant in the park every 90 minutes. Fountain Drinks including water you can refill every 15 minutes. We didn’t have to carry anything around and were able to grab food whenever we were hungry. Special shoutout to the Rolls at the “Grand Pavillion & Bar” and the Chicken Burrito Bowls at “Miss Keat’s Smokehouse”.

We purchased these through the hotel when we booked our room, so each morning we had to go down to the hotel gift shop to collect our early entry tickets and wristbands for the day. I’ve heard there can be a long line in the summer, but we went during Halloweekends and didn’t have a problem with excessive lines.

The Cedar Point App

Download the App. It allows you to:

• see ride wait times
• see which restaurants will take the dining plan
• get directions to rides within the park

It’s not overly advanced, but is worth the small space on your phone in my opinion.

What to Wear

1. Wear comfortable walking shoes! We walked 10 miles one day and 8 miles the next. Your feet will thank you.
2. The fanny pack / belt bag / hip pack, whatever you want to call it, was perfect for this trip. Unlike backpacks, nearly every ride at the park will allow you to keep a fanny pack on your body for the duration of the ride. And the couple of rides that didn’t allow fanny packs, had lockers nearby.

Did you find this helpful? Let me know in the comments!

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• If it’s a different culture, it will likely help you be conscious of what is respectful.
• It will help you understand the location you’re visiting better
• It will help you notice things that you wouldn’t have otherwise noticed. For example, on a walking tour one time the docent shared that many of the historic buildings were brick and had iron window coverings that were still there. That was the town’s way of managing fires, they would just close up the windows to keep the fire from consuming more than one building! Then as I wandered on my own, I noticed so many of these types of buildings!

There are a handful of ways to achieve this:

1. Take a Walking Tour

I used to think tours were lame, but I had no idea how much I was missing by not taking the tour. I love a good walking tour. Not only do you usually get to check a bunch of sites off your list, but the tour guides normally know a fair amount of local history too.

I also love a great Food Tour, architecture tour, or Street Art / Mural Tour. Find a tour that you find interesting.

Not into a guide, see if there’s a walking tour app with an audio component for your city!

Check if the place you’re visiting has an app for a scavenger hunt walking tour. These are super fun with a group, often are great for photo-ops, and still allow you to see a lot of things with little planning on your end.

2. Take a Non-Walking Tour

Walking tours aren’t for everybody. Other great options are:

1. Bus Tour (although I have never done one of these but would like to)
2. Boat Tour (i.e. you’re in a location with a lot of water and can see the main attractions by boat! I did one of these in Washington DC and will be doing another in New York)
3. Trolly Tour

3. Visit a Museum

I like to hit the local history or natural history museum, but pick whatever kind of museum interests you! Art, music, culture. And if there’s an audio tour, even better. If you want to visit more than one and cut down on costs, be sure to check if that city has a “City Pass” or something comparable. (If you’re not familiar with City Pass, this is a way to bundle and package your tickets to local pre-determined attractions and it usually saves you 30-50%.)

4. Visit a National Historic Site or Park

If the National Park Service thinks it’s worth noting, it probably is. The National Park Service app has self-guided tours and audio tours that are based on your location. This highlights National Parks and National Historic Sites, so a National Park Pass is not required for all locations. Special shout out to the Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau for being one of the better audio tours ever. iPhone users, you CAN connect two pairs of Airpods to your phone for audio.

There are a number of ways to get to know the city you’re visiting. Let me know in the comments your favorite way to “meet” a new place.

The post First Thing You Should Do in a New City appeared first on Sites Worth Seeing.

Things to know before you go:

• Free public transit can get you around pretty well in Park City, but for many things on this list, you’ll need a car.
• Drink a lot of water while you adjust to this high elevation!

1. Stop by the Park City Visitor Center

This isn’t normally my first recommendation in a new city, but this was a great Visitor Center. Stop here for the most up-to-date information on local events and things to do while you’re there. I was told about things I would have never found on my own, and if you want to live more like a local while you’re there, here’s your chance.

2. Ride E-Bikes with Summit Ride Share

There are over 200 E-Bikes around the city and miles of beautiful paved trails. With an annual, monthly, or per ride option, there are affordable options for everyone. We visited Park City for two weeks, so if I had a do-over, I would have gotten the month long pass the day we arrived so we could ride bikes whenever we wanted. Learn more at the Summit Bike Share website. If you don’t love the idea of a public ride share, there are tons of e-bike rental places in Park City, all around $70 for a half day per bike. On a sunny day, this is a great thing to do in Park City, Utah.

3. Enjoy Free Music

Park City is full of live music. It is actually impressive how many shows are put on and how many people come out for them. Bring some lawn chairs or a blanket to sit on and enjoy some free music. You can see a full schedule at mountaintownmusic.org.

4. Visit Utah Olympic Park

Whether you’re here for the adrenaline rush, views of Park City from the mountain, or to brush up on your Olympic History, you won’t be disappointed. This was easily one of my favorite things to do in Park City and went up there multiple times in our two weeks there. Park City, Utah was the host of the 2002 Winter Olympics, and have since repurposed the area to include a museum, Olympic training center, and activity park with ziplines, tubing, alpine slides, ropes courses, airbag jumps, and more. We had SO much fun here!

The museum is free and there are usually people training for the Olympic Freestyle which are free to attend. Seeing where the Olympics took place is cool…it was so much larger than I was expecting – watching it on TV will definitely be different in the future.

5. Watch the Flying Ace All-Star Show

Every Friday and Saturday, mid-June through Labor Day Weekend, you can catch the Flying Ace All-Star’s Show (not free) at Utah Olympic Park. Learn More on the Flying Ace Website.

6. Shop at the Outlets

There are endless shopping options in Park City. The best souvenir store I’ve come across is Park City Souvenir Co. on N. Landmark Drive in the Outlets. Reasonable prices and a great selection. But you can get some great shopping done in the Kimball Junction Area, Park City Outlets, or Historic Downtown.

7. Visit Historic Downtown

Visiting Historic Downtown Park City is a nice thing to do. Grab an ice cream from Java Cow, an eclectic desserts shop, head to Dolly’s Bookstore tucked behind Rocky Mountain Java Company, get some great food, and see a play at the Egyptian Theater. The Park City Museum also does Walking Tours June through September, once per day at 2pm (weather permitting).

8. Hike the Wasatch Mountains

I love AllTrails, but had a hard time finding good hiking trails (not nature paths) in the area. Mountain Trails Foundation (mountaintrails.org) had some great recommendations. This is one of the best things to do in the area in my opinion!

Bloods Lake to Clayton Peak: Even though we didn’t make it to the top of this one (there are some pretty sketchy boulders at the top and we hit some bad weather) the view was breathtaking. Check it out on All Trails. There is transit to this trailhead and a few others since parking fills up early. Visit UtahOpenLands.org to learn more.

Red Pine Lake and Gloria Falls: This was a little longer of a hike, but varied and beautiful. You can even see down to Salt Lake City from portions of the trail. Check it out on All Trails

9. Swim in the Utah Crater

In a nearby city called Midway, you can swim in the Utah Crater at Homestead Farm all year long with its 90 degree water. Reservations and tickets are required. Learn more at UtahCrater.com

10. Take a Scenic Drive

I love taking a scenic drive, but that’s not always first on the list for my travel companions. Sneak in a scenic drive by choosing a hike or city to visit that will require you to make this drive! We ended up on Guardsman Pass by chance and it was a happy and breathtaking accident. Here’s a guide from The City of Park City to all of the Scenic Drives.

11. Visit Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City has so much to offer! Only 20-45 minutes away from Park City (depending on where you’re staying and where you’re going), a day in Salt Lake City is a must-do. Sunset spots, tons of religious history, prohibition-era bars, great food, an indoor-outdoor mall, and more.

12. Make the Drive to Wyoming

I love checking a state off the list. Evanston, WY is only an hour away and you pass through some amazing red rocks in the Henefer-Echo Wildlife Management Area. I’m not going to tell you that Evanston was the most amazing place I have ever visited, but cool to see a little bit of this state if you’re looking for something to do and want a picture in front of a Wyoming sign.

Other Notes

I’m from California, so am always surprised to learn about the different alcohol restrictions in each state. In Utah (at least this part) you can buy only buy beer and non-alcoholic wine from the grocery store. Beer with an ABV of 5% or less can be purchased to-go from local breweries. If the brewery brewed it onsite, you can get full-strength IPAs. Wine and hard liquor need to be purchased from a DABS Utah State Liquor Store. Otherwise, most restaurants and bars can sell alcohol for you to consume onsite.

The post 12 Best Things to Do in Park City, Utah in the Summer appeared first on Sites Worth Seeing.

Talk to a healthcare professional before incorporating any tea into your travel routine. It is not uncommon for there to be allergies to tea (many teas use common weeds!), there can be negative side effects when combined with prescribed medications, if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have an auto-immune or other immune system disorder.

Again these are the teas that I like and tend to work best for me personally. This is not medical advice. I’m not associated with any of these brands, I just want you to get something that tastes good on the first try!

Ginger Tea

Ginger tea is caffeine-free and offers several benefits for travelers. It’s a digestive aid, so can alleviate nausea and indigestion and reduce feelings of motion sickness, making it particularly useful during flights, car rides, or boat trips.

Ginger contains anti-inflammatory properties and can help improve blood circulation and joint health (think about the muscle soreness and joint discomfort that can come with sitting for long periods of travel).

Ginger has antioxidant, antibacterial, and immune-boosting properties that can help support your body’s defenses against infections and illness, reducing the risk of getting sick while traveling.

My favorite is Yogi Ginger Tea which tends to be more peppery and can be a really strong flavor. If you’re new to tea, just know that going into it! You can check out Yogi’s Ginger Tea full flavor profile here.

Peppermint Tea

Peppermint Tea is caffeine-free and is known for its soothing effect on the digestive system. It can help alleviate symptoms of indigestion, bloating, and gas, which is especially helpful when trying new restaurants.

Peppermint has been used traditionally to ease an upset stomach, nausea, and motion sickness. It might be a good option to try for those prone to motion sickness.

Other benefits of Peppermint tea are stress reduction, and immune system support through its natural antimicrobial properties and the menthol in peppermint tea can provide relief for mild respiratory issues.

Did I mention it’s super fresh-tasting and smells good? My favorite is Stash Peppermint Tea.

Chamomile Tea

Chamomile is caffeine-free and my go-to for ending the day. I sleep so much better (especially in unfamiliar environments) when I end my day with some Chamomile, thanks to those mild sedative properties. It is well-known for helping you relax and unwind. Like peppermint tea, chamomile tea has calming effects that can help alleviate travel-related stress and anxiety plus contains antioxidants that can help support your immune system.

Chamomile tea can help soothe an upset stomach, ease indigestion, and reduce gastrointestinal discomfort.

Chamomile contains compounds with anti-inflammatory properties that might help reduce inflammation-related discomfort, such as sore muscles or joint pain that can arise from long periods of sitting during travel. Chamomile tea’s gentle anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effects may provide relief for respiratory issues, such as allergies, sinus congestion, or mild cold symptoms.

My favorite is Stash Chamomile Nights. This particular one is a blend with spearmint and I think it tastes much better than the regular Stash Chamomile.

Echinacea Plus Tea

Echinacea Plus Tea is caffeine-free and is believed to stimulate the immune system.

Echinacea has been used traditionally to reduce the duration and severity of cold symptoms. Drinking Echinacea Plus tea might help you recover more quickly if you catch a cold during your travels, and I start drinking it if I find myself around someone who is sick. Some people use Echinacea to alleviate symptoms of respiratory issues like mild coughs and sore throats.

Echinacea contains antioxidants that can help combat oxidative stress and is considered an adaptogen, which means it might help your body adapt to stressors more effectively.

Many “Echinacea Plus” teas often include other herbs that can provide additional benefits, but my favorite is from Traditional Medicinals.

Green Tea

Need a little afternoon pick-me-up? Green Tea contains caffeine and has a shocking amount of benefits. Enough that it just might make you trade out your afternoon coffee for Green Tea.

Green tea is rich in antioxidants which can help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals. (If you’re wondering what I’m talking about and want to understand the relationship between antioxidants and free radicals, check out this Harvard Health Article).

Green Tea also:

• has anti-inflammatory properties
• can help boost your metabolism
• can contribute to oral health and kill bad breath germs
• can improve cognitive function & focus
• can help reduce stress and anxiety

My favorite is the Tazo Zen Green Tea since this blend includes spearmint and lemon. It’s delicious.

Tea Comparison

I know that’s a lot to consume, so here’s a quick comparison chart for you.

Do you have go-to teas that you pack for travel? Or do you prefer a different brand? Let me know in the comments.

Wondering what else you should pack? Check out my list of packing essentials.

The post 5 Best Teas for Traveling appeared first on Sites Worth Seeing.

There are 2 main hiking areas in Auburn, Ca. Hidden Falls Regional Park, and The Auburn State Recreation Area. The Auburn State Recreation Area (Auburn SRA) is hilly and beautiful, with literally hundreds of miles of hikes. As a local, I like to stay away from the trails crowded with visitors as much as possible. So here are my favorite hikes in the area. As always, be mindful of your environment, leave only footprints, and remember that you’re walking through the homes of many wild animals. Fair warning…none of these are easy, but if you have fairly good cardio, this will be enjoyable for you, even if you’re newer to hiking. Follow me on AllTrails to see what I’m hiking!

Training Hill Loop

Distance: 4.5 Miles

Starting Elevation:

Elevation Gain: 1,047 (nearly all in the first mile)

Closest Parking Spot: Parallel parking is free if you’re on the El Dorado County side. You can also park at the Quarry Parking area (fee required) and use the trail directly across from the entrance to start on a slightly different part of the loop. Parking in the Confluence Area can be an issue on the weekends, so consider using Auburn’s On Demand Shuttle

Some people call this K2. I wouldn’t get that carried away. Don’t get me wrong, it is a struggle up the first mile, but not only are you rewarded with a beautiful 3 miles on the backside of Training Hill, but this really is one of the best trails to train on. There are about 5 false peaks, which is sad on your first couple of times up, but believe me, it’s better knowing this going into it. 

When you’re getting close to the top and need that breather, don’t be afraid to look back on that monster of a hill you’re conquering, plus you’ll get an awesome view of the mountains and the Foresthill Bridge (the tallest bridge in California). And when you get to the top on your first time, add your rock to the pile on the left… It’s tradition. You did it!

The rest of the trail is diverse with creeks (in the winter and spring) and fields.

ADO Loop

Name: ADO Loop

Distance: 5.16 miles

Elevation Gain: 656 ft

Closest Parking Spot: Overlook Park (Free)

ADO stands for Auburn Dam Overlook, so the big cement thing you’ll see near the river (shown in the picture above), is the never completed Auburn Dam (the work on the dam was halted in the 1970’s). Contour Trail has a steep section of the trail leading to/from the parking lot, so be aware of that as you select which direction you want to go on the path. This trail is beautiful and varied, complete with a tiny wooden bridge, which I’m a sucker for.

Bridgeview-Stagecoach Loop

Name: Bridgeview-Stagecoach Loop

Distance: 3.47 miles

Elevation Gain: 820 ft

Closest Parking Spot: There is a lot of paid parking in the area (unless you have a State Park Pass it’s included), although parking in the Confluence Area can be an issue on the weekends, so consider using Auburn’s On Demand Shuttle.

Stagecoach is a very popular trail, but if you just go a little off the beaten path, you will not be disappointed. 

You’re going to start on this trail by going up (and up and up) on Bridgeview Trail. The first mile is definitely the hardest part of the loop – but you might as well get the hard part of the workout/hike over at the beginning. You’ll eventually take a left on Mossy Rock Trail, then continue up Flood Trail until you get to Upper Stagecoach. On Upper Stagecoach you’re rewarded with a bench overlooking the canyon. Upper Stagecoach will eventually meet Stagecoach and you’ll continue down until you hit Tinkers Cut -Off Trail on the right. (Please note parts of this trail do not allow bicycles, so if you’re a biker, don’t follow this one!)

Hope you enjoy your time exploring Auburn! If you found this helpful, please follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or Pinterest. And if you’re looking for more hikes, check out our post on the Best Waterfall Hikes in Auburn!

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Clementine Dam

Name: Clementine Trail

Distance: 4.5 miles, out and back

Elevation Gain: 682 ft

Closest Parking: There are a lot of paid parking options near this trailhead, but parking in the Confluence Area can be challenging on the weekends, so consider using Auburn’s On Demand Shuttle.

The most popular waterfall in Auburn is not a waterfall at all, it is the Lake Clementine Dam. But the fact that it is a dam does not take away from how Instagram-worthy the “falls” are.  Most locals have been here a ton of times and avoid it on the weekends.  With that said it is a beautiful trail that lines the river, takes you under the tallest bridge in California (and third highest bridge in the United States at 730 ft tall), and is totally worthwhile.

This is a heavily populated trail on the weekends,  so if there is any chance you can get out there on a weekday I definitely recommend it.

Calcutta Falls

Name: (Black Hole of) Calcutta Falls

Distance: 2.2 miles, out and back

Elevation Gain: 269 Feet

Closest Parking Spot: Parallel parking is free if you’re on the El Dorado County side. You can also park at the Quarry Parking area (fee required) and use the trail directly across from the entrance to start on a slightly different part of the loop. Parking in the Confluence Area can be an issue on the weekends, so consider using Auburn’s On Demand Shuttle

This is an easy out and back Trail with beautiful views. The waterfall is a trickle in the late summer and fall but gets pretty majestic (for Auburn at least) in the winter and spring after we’ve had plenty of rainfall.

If you take a left off of the main trail and go down to the river you can see all three Bridges from the water’s edge.

Hidden Falls

Name: Hidden Falls

Distance: 3 miles, out and back

Elevation Gain: 515 feet

Closest Parking Spot: You have to park at the Hidden Falls parking lot which does require reservations in advance on weekends. You can make half-day or full-day reservations click here to reserve your parking. Or view the Hidden Trails website for more information!

Hidden Falls Regional Park has 30 miles of trails, but the trail leading from the parking lot to the falls is another heavily trafficked but beautiful trail. In the winter it can be very buggy so bring your bug spray. You end up at a cute little deck that overlooks the falls.  If you go a little further you’ll come across a bridge and can go to an upper deck for a better vantage point of the canyon.

So there you have it! Which waterfall you chase first is up to you! Let me know which was/is your favorite in the comments below. Looking for other hikes in Auburn? Check out my favorite hiking loops!

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