Via magazine | Summer 2025 | AAA by Via magazine | AAA Mountain West Group

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Adventure startshere

FEATURES

the Cruise for You

Cruise lines have evolved to offer all kinds of experiences, like an adults-only Nordic spa, a silent disco, and caviar served on surfboards.

BY JANICE WALD HENDERSON

Choose Your Park Adventure

Are you a hiker, biker, history buff, beachcomber, or seeker of flora and fauna? Whatever you like to do on your summer vacation, there’s a national park that’s a perfect fit.

BY PETER FISH

Cruising

how

DEPARTMENTS

President’s Letter

AAA helps Members navigate the future of transportation.

11 Member News

Memorial Day weekend travel tips; plus, a preview of Season 2 of the Via Podcast and great Member discounts for summer.

17 Behind the Wheel

The 2025 AAA Car Guide is here; classic versus adaptive cruise control; and car-buying experts weigh in on whether cash or financing is best.

25 On the Road

Art meets science in Utah’s Great Basin Desert; Members’ favorite beach towns in the West; a bucket list–worthy trip to Nome, Alaska; Lake Merritt preserves wildlife and celebrates culture in Oakland, Calif.; the rugged beauty and bounty of Great Falls, Mont.

58 Where in the West

An unusual sandstone formation rises from the desert floor like a giant pachyderm.

ON THE COVER A Viking cruise navigates the Eidfjord, a stunning inlet in Norway that teems with wildlife and waterfalls. Page 40.

Campsites fill up fast during the summer season, so consider these spots less than an hour from the top parks.

Scan to read these online-only stories and more.

STAFF

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Whitney Phaneuf

DESIGN DIRECTOR Monica Ewing Jensen

EXECUTIVE EDITOR Dan Miller

MANAGING EDITOR LeeAnne Jones

PHOTO EDITOR Maggie Perkins

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS

Mandy Ferreira, Rebecca Harper, April Kilcrease, Emma Silvers

ADVERTISING & PRODUCTION MANAGER Natasha Alcalá

SOCIAL MEDIA STRATEGIST Amy Mackey

CONTACT

Via Editorial Address all mail to Via, AAA, P.O. Box 24502, Oakland, CA 94623, or viamail@viamagazine.com. Your input may be edited and published in print or online.

Via Advertising Address all mail to Via Advertising, AAA, P.O. Box 24502, Oakland, CA 94623. Fax (510) 899-0525.

Change of address Allow four weeks’ advance notice. Contact AAA at (800) 922-8228.

Manuscripts and photos Query first; Via assumes no responsibility for return of unsolicited material.

Reprints from Via Contents copyrighted 2025 AAA Northern California, Nevada & Utah. No part of Via may be reprinted without written permission.

→ Answer (from page 58)

Elephant Rock, located in Valley of Fire State Park in southern Nevada.

Plus 9,400+ additional premium exercise studios at 20% - 70% off retail1

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Connect 1-on-1 with a personal well-being coach for motivation in nutrition, stress management, sleep, and more at no additional cost.

Create a free account to get instant access to 14,000+ on-demand workout videos!

AAA Members can earn 10% of their Active&Fit Direct membership fees ($36.40) back after 12 months in the program! Visit AAA.com/AFD to enroll today.

Experiencing the future of transportation

The automotive industry is undergoing a period of rapid innovation, with new technologies and trends emerging at an unprecedented pace. Throughout our 125-year history, AAA has always been centered around people helping people—not only with our world-renowned roadside assistance, but also in keeping up with the rapid evolution of automotive technologies. That’s why I jumped at the opportunity to visit Waymo’s autonomous vehicle facility in Phoenix.

If you’re not familiar with Waymo, it’s an advanced technology company developing selfdriving cars that navigate roads and traffic without human drivers. Now, I’m no stranger to the open road. But handing over the wheel to a computer? That requires a whole new level of trust. The way these vehicles navigate real-world traffic scenarios, anticipate potential hazards, and—most importantly—prioritize safety was truly impressive.

There were times when the vehicle felt overly cautious. For instance, while taking an unprotected left turn through oncoming traffic, I found myself backseat driving, expecting a

more aggressive maneuver to seize opportunities in the traffic flow. Reflecting on this, I can’t help but think that perhaps our driving behaviors and expectations have unconsciously shifted over time to accept greater risk. If the computer is programmed to prioritize safety above all, then shouldn’t we do the same?

My Waymo visit provided a glimpse into the future of personal transportation and the transformative potential of self-driving technology. It also underscored for me the importance of AAA remaining actively engaged with industry stakeholders, policymakers, and safety experts to ensure a smooth and responsible transition to an autonomous future.

The road ahead is filled with exciting possibilities. As we collectively travel that road, I’m relieved to know that leaders in this space, such as Waymo, are aligned with the principle that has guided AAA for more than a century: Safety over speed.

Driving forward with gratitude and optimism,

MARSHALL L. DONEY, PRESIDENT AND CEO

*Up to 20% discount will vary depending on location, date, length of rental, car class, & other factors. $30 on a weekly rental base rate, minimum 5 days. Discounts apply to Pay Later base rate. Taxes, fees, & options excluded. Promotion Code 211634 and AAA CDP# must be provided at time of reservation for full offer discounts. This offer is available at participating Hertz locations in the US, Canada, & Puerto Rico. Age, driver, credit, & qualifying rate restrictions for the renting location apply. Advance reservation required. Offer not valid and rate change or additional fees may apply in the event of reservation modification, early / late vehicle return or if not returning vehicle to renting location. Valid on all car classes except large SUVs, minivans, & Dream. Offer has no cash value, and may not be used with other discounts, promotions, or special rates. Valid for vehicle pickups through 12/31/2025. Subject to availability, blackout periods, & additional restrictions. At the time of rental, present your AAA membership card for identification.

1The

Member News

Memorial Day travel tips

Be patient and start your trip early. Plan for delays as roads become more congested in the days leading up to Memorial Day weekend, May 23 to 26 this year. Avoid traffic by starting your trip in the morning instead of the afternoon rush hours.

Get your car road trip ready. AAA responds to hundreds of thousands of requests during the holiday weekend; flat tires and dead batteries are the most common reasons people need help. Before your trip, inspect your car or visit your AAA Auto Repair Center for service.

Prepare for emergencies. Keep an emergency kit in your car with a backup phone charger, flashlight, flares, snacks, and water. In the event of a breakdown, sometimes the safest action is staying inside your car and calling for help instead of attempting repairs yourself.

Save on gas. Use the AAA Mobile App to find the cheapest gas or EV charger along your route. To maximize fuel economy, ensure your tires are correctly inflated, follow the speed limit, and avoid hard acceleration.

—JULIAN PAREDES

(AAA COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST)

The Via Podcast is back

Featuring unforgettable stories about the West, the Via Podcast is back for Season 2. Right now, you can catch the first episode—a rugged tour of large-scale land art—wherever you get your podcasts. AAA.com/podcast

AAA partners with Feeding America

To support the communities where AAA Members and employees live and work, AAA is partnering with Feeding America, a nationwide network of food banks, food pantries, and local meal programs. Through volunteering and donation initiatives, AAA clubs across the country will provide the equivalent of 1.5 million pounds of food to those in need.

More than 50 million people in the United States receive food assistance from charities such as Feeding America each year. Get involved in your local food bank by offering to sort and pack food, distribute food, or host a food drive. To find one near you, visit feedingamerica.org

Share your thoughts

Send comments or questions to viamail@viamagazine.com or Via, AAA, P.O. Box 24502, Oakland, CA 94623. Your input may be edited and published in print or online.

JOIN THE COMMUNITY

Slow down, move over

Did you know that 60% of roadside workers have experienced near misses from vehicles speeding by, and 15% have been struck while working? Move Over laws help protect them. In June, AAA is hosting a media event at the Capitol in Sacramento to urge California to expand its law to include all people in cars stopped on the side of the road. Do your part by slowing down and moving over a lane.

New AAA Travel credit card

Earn cash back on travel, restaurants, and everyday purchases when you use the AAA Travel Advantage Visa Signature® Credit Card. Enjoy 5% cash back on gas and electric vehicle charging stations1, 3% cash back on grocery stores, restaurants, travel, and AAA purchases, and 1% on everything else1. Plus, there’s no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees2. See page 11 for disclosures and more info. AAA.com/travelcard

AAA.com/ facebook

AAA.com/ instagram

AAA.com/ pinterest AAA.com/ youtube

Reward yourself.

Just by doing what you enjoy most, using the AAA Travel Advantage Visa Signature® Credit Card rewards you with:

✓ 5% cash back on gas and EV charging purchases1;

✓ 3% cash back on travel, restaurants, and more1; and

✓ No annual fee and no foreign transaction fees2. Make it your go-to card, every day.

AAA Credit Cards

1 Offer is exclusive to AAA Travel Advantage Visa Signature® Credit Card holders enrolled in the AAA Travel Advantage program. For offers associated with a specific category, earnings will only be awarded if the merchant code for the purchase matches a category eligible for the offer. Each merchant is assigned a code by a third party that indicates the merchant’s area of business. Comenity Capital Bank does not have the ability to control assignment of merchant codes. Maximum of $350 USD in cash back in a calendar year on the 5% category, and earn 1% cash back on all net eligible purchases thereafter. Excludes third-party insurance and offers, automobile extended warranties, and trip insurance. Cash back can be redeemed as statement credits, direct deposit, rewards and qualifying purchases at participating AAA locations. This rewards program is provided by Comenity Capital Bank and its terms may change at any time. For full Rewards Terms and Conditions, please see AAA.com/AdvantageTravelTerms.

2 For new accounts, as of March 2025: Variable Purchase and Balance Transfer APRs of 18.24% to 32.24% based on your credit worthiness at the time of account opening and the Prime Rate. Variable Cash Advance APR of 33.24%, based on Prime Rate. Minimum Interest Charge is $3. Balance Transfer Fee of the greater of $10 or 5% of the transfer. Cash Advance Fee of the greater of $10 or 5% of the advance. Credit card offers are subject to credit approval.

AAA Travel Advantage Visa Signature® Credit Card Accounts are issued by Comenity

up to 30% sitewide. AAA.com/Samsung

T-Mobile

up to $200 back when you switch2 AAA.com/T-Mobile

Member Discounts

LensCrafters

Napa Auto Parts

The Parking Spot

two days free and save 20% on airport parking at SFO, OAK, PHX, SLC, and 24 other airports. AAA.com/TheParkingSpot

your

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of fuel. AAA.com/Shell Disneyland® Resort Save up to $104 on park tickets to celebrate its 70th anniversary.1 AAA.com/DisneyParks

20% on frames and 50% on lenses with pair purchase. AAA.com/LensCrafters

The Via Podcast is back for Season 2.

Behind the Wheel

CAR BUYING

2025 AAA Car Guide

If you’re in the market for some new wheels this year, the 2025 AAA Car Guide is here to help.

The guide reviews and rates all kinds of new vehicles, including small, midsize, and large cars, SUVs, pickups, and minivans. This year’s winners run the gamut from the Honda Civic Sport Touring Hybrid (in the small car category) to overall favorite BMW iX xDrive50 (shown here). To see the full list, scan the QR code at right.

The ratings are based on vehicle specs and handson evaluations of 70 vehicles. The 15 evaluation criteria include handling, acceleration, and ride quality; fuel efficiency and emissions; advanced safety features, interior room and cargo capacity; and overall build quality.

car tech + vehicle care + driving tips

Scan to see the latest year’s AAA Car Guide.

CRUISE CONTROL

How the classic and adaptive versions compare.

by christopher null

Cruise control is one of the original driver assistance systems. Early versions of it—which held the throttle in a fixed position— date back to the early 1900s. Cruise control as we know it today got its real start commercially in 1958 with Chrysler’s “dial-a-speed” feature

called Auto-Pilot. (There was literally a knob on the dashboard.) Cadillac took that idea, gave it a more familiar format (with buttons similar to the ones we have today), and coined the term that we still use.

That original form of cruise control was primarily about reducing driver fatigue: Drivers wanted to take a break from keeping their foot on the gas pedal for long stretches. Cruise control made those extended drives a bit less physically taxing.

Adaptive cruise control (ACC), which was initially developed in the 1990s, was a major advance. Rather than setting a speed and sticking with it, adaptive cruise control gauges the distance between your car and the one you’re following and adjusts your

speed to maintain a safe distance. ACC is now commonplace. According to one market analysis, installation rates tripled from 2017 to 2023; more than 60% of 2023 model-year vehicles have it.

How adaptive cruise control works

While it may sound sophisticated, ACC isn’t that complex technologically. Today’s ACC relies on sensory devices at the front of the vehicle, including basic radar sensors, video cameras, and lasers, depending on the system. An onboard computer uses data from those sensors to calculate the distance to the car ahead and its speed relative to yours. When your car gets closer than the system deems

KEYS TO DRIVING

Anytime, anywhere access.

safe, ACC decelerates (by slowing down the engine or engaging the brakes) until you match the speed of the car ahead.

This simplicity means ACC can be adopted broadly in a wide range of vehicles. Soon, ACC is likely to be available in most new cars, at least as an option, says Greg Brannon, director of automotive engineering for AAA. That’s in large part because ACC uses the same sensors as automatic emergency braking (AEB) systems, which have been widely adopted in cars produced since 2022. (Starting in 2029, all passenger cars and light trucks sold in the U.S. will be required to have AEB standard.). “Since manufacturers are including AEB for free, they figure they might as well include ACC that they can charge for,” Brannon says.

The pros and cons of adaptive cruise control

“Adaptive cruise control is one of the most effective driver assistance technologies we have,” says Brannon. “I do think it’s changing driving habits.”

One study found that vehicles equipped with both AEB and forward collision warning had a nearly 50% reduction in rear-end collisions compared to those without these features. While ACC on its own may not offer that big of a safety benefit, Brannon believes it probably has the additional benefit of causing drivers to brake and change lanes less frequently. “It definitely takes some of the stress, anxiety, and even anger out of driving,” he says.

But while ACC can assist drivers, it can’t drive the car for them. And its reliance on radar and cameras saddles it with some unavoidable limitations. ACC can be dangerous to use in poor visibility caused by rain, snow, or fog, which can interfere with sensors. That’s one reason AAA specifically suggests avoiding cruise control when conditions are wet.

ACC also doesn’t work well on sharp curves. Many drivers find that their ACC systems often get confused when the car they’re following pulls to one side to turn. The combination of ACC and adaptive lane keeping systems may also blindly follow the driver in front, even if they’re driving badly, Brannon says.

While logic suggests that ACC should improve traffic conditions, some studies have found that it can actually do the opposite: It may cause unnecessary traffic jams if multiple cars using the technology on the same stretch of road hit the brakes at the same time.

What’s next for cruise control?

Brannon notes that few advanced driver assistance technologies are as

well-tested and as reliable as ACC. The one change he foresees in the near future is that ACC will likely be increasingly combined with related technologies, such as lane-keeping assistance and traffic jam assistance.

Until then, Brannon’s best advice for getting the most out of the technology is simply to use it in situations where you feel comfortable with it, such as moderate traffic conditions at highway speeds. “The more you use it, the more comfortable you will likely get,” he says. “But remember that the driver is always responsible for maintaining control of the vehicle.” ●

MEMBER QUESTION

CASH VS. FINANCING

AAA’s car-buying experts share insights from the field.

QIs paying cash a better deal than dealer financing? —SEFERINO SILVA

AThere’s no one-size-fits-all answer to that, but here are a few things you should consider.

Dealers make money on financing through commissions from lending institutions (which may come in the form of flat fees, a percentage of the loan, or a share of the interest). That means auto dealers have an incentive to structure deals around it. They do so by breaking the sales process into two phases: First, there’s the salesperson out on the lot, who gets you to agree on a vehicle and price. Then, there’s a finance manager who finalizes the deal. That may include encouraging you to finance the purchase—which can help the dealer’s bottom line.

For that reason, you shouldn’t mention the possibility that you might want to pay cash until the end of that second phase. Buyers often think, “I’m paying cash. I have negotiating power.” But that’s not necessarily true. If the dealer would prefer you to finance, they’re less likely to be swayed by a cash offer.

Before you even set foot on the lot, you should know what you would be willing to spend (a) in one big chunk and (b) in monthly payments. In the first case, ask yourself whether paying cash is really the best use of those funds. Consider how much return you could earn if you kept the money in

the bank or invested it elsewhere. Have a very clear idea of the make, model, features, and intended use of the car, as well as how long you plan to keep it. All of that will help you evaluate which option, cash or financing, makes the most sense.

You don’t have to finance through the dealer. Instead, you can arrange financing through a credit union, potentially with better rates or terms. Get preapproved before visiting the dealer, so that you can compare offers. Using that preapproved amount from your financial institution can be great for bargaining, even if you are thinking

of paying with cash. But keep in mind that dealer financing can in fact be a good option, as they have access to a wide variety of lenders.

Finally, remember that a dealer’s primary motivation is to close deals; they don’t want you to leave the lot because they know you might not be back. That means they’ll look for ways to get you to buy, even if it means compromising on the vehicle or price. Be prepared to haggle, and don’t be afraid to walk away unless you absolutely need a specific car immediately.

—JOLENE

AYLWARD (OPERATIONS LEAD, AAA CAR BUYING) AND JARRETT KERRIGAN (DIRECTOR, OPERATIONS, AAA CAR BUYING)

But When Driving, These Sunglasses May Save Your Life!

The sun rises and sets at peak travel periods, during the early morning and afternoon rush hours and many drivers find themselves temporarily blinded while driving directly into the glare of the sun. Deadly accidents are regularly caused by such blinding glare with danger arising from reflected light off another vehicle, the pavement, or even from waxed and oily windshields that can make matters worse. Yet, motorists struggle on despite being blinded by the sun’s glare that can cause countless accidents every year.

Not all sunglasses are created equal. Protecting your eyes is serious business. With all the fancy fashion frames out there it can be easy to overlook what really matters––the lenses. So we did our research and looked to the very best in optic innovation and technology.

breaking technology to help protect human eyesight from the harmful effects of solar radiation light. This superior lens technology was first discovered when NASA scientists looked to nature for a means to superior eye protection—specifically, by studying the eyes of eagles, known for their extreme visual acuity. This discovery resulted in what is now known as Eagle Eyes®.

The Only Sunglass Technology Certified by the Space Foundation for UV and BlueLight Eye Protection. Eagle Eyes features the most advanced eye protection technology ever created. The TriLenium ® Lens Technology offers triplefilter polarization to block 99.9% UVA and UVB—plus the added benefit of blue-light eye protection. Eagle Eyes® is the only optic technology that has earned official recognition from the Space Certification Program for this remarkable technology.

Sometimes it does take a rocket scientist. A NASA rocket scientist. Some ordinary sunglasses can obscure your vision by exposing your eyes to harmful UV rays, blue light, and reflective glare. They can also darken useful vision-enhancing light. But now, independent research conducted by scientists from NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory has brought forth ground-

The finest optics: And buy one, get one FREE! Eagle Eyes® has the highest customer satisfaction of any item in our 20 year history. We are so excited for you to try the Eagle Eyes® breakthrough technology that we will give you a second pair of Eagle Eyes® Navigator™ Sunglasses FREE––a $59.95 value!

That’s two pairs to protect your eyes with the best technology available for less than the price of one pair of traditional sunglasses. You get a pair of Navigators with stainless steel black frames and the other with stainless steel gold, plus one hard zipper case and one micro-fiber drawstring cleaning pouch are included.

Your satisfaction is 100% guaranteed.If you are not astounded with the Eagle Eyes® technology, enjoying clearer, sharper and more glare-free vision, simply return one pair within 30 days for a full refund of the purchase price. The other pair is yours to keep. Don’t leave your eyes in the hands of fashion designers, entrust them to the best

NASA Optic technology and was recently inducted into the Space Foundation Technology Hall of Fame.

scientific minds on earth. Wear your Eagle Eyes® Navigators with absolute confidence, knowing your eyes are protected with technology that was born in space. Urgent: Special Summer Driving Notice

On the Road

road trips + destinations + favorites

VIEW FINDER

Portals to the sky

Nancy Holt, a pioneer in the land art movement, often said she aimed to bring “the sky down to the earth.” With her 1976 work, Sun Tunnels, she did just that. In Utah’s Great Basin Desert, Holt carefully aligned four 9-foottall concrete pipes to capture the sun as it rises and sets on the solstices. Every summer, around 100 people make the pilgrimage to witness the celestial event through Holt’s massive viewfinders.

Lisa Le Feuvre, executive director of the Holt/Smithson Foundation, recommends visitors spend the night in Wendover, about an hour and a half south, then drive to the tunnels before dawn when the air is crisp.

“When the sun rises, not only do you have this beautiful, incredible light, you have the warmth that comes with it,” Le Feuvre says. “You feel the experience with all of your body, and it is magical.”

ON THE PODCAST

Discover more perspectiveshifting land art in the latest episode of the Via Podcast at AAA.com/podcast.

“While practically all of the beach towns in Southern California have outgrown their beach town vibe, you can still find it in downtown Ventura. Five blocks are pedestrian only, which makes browsing the thrift and antique shops much easier. There are wonderful restaurants, including Cafe Nouveau for brunch and Lure Fish House for dinner. Stroll along the pier and promenade to see surfers— and sometimes dolphins— riding the waves. For expansive views of the ocean and Channel Islands, head to the hilltop botanical gardens.”

—BARBARA ROSE

BEACH TOWNS

Find your endless summer among these coastal escapes.

“Oxnard’s shoreline is not as crowded as other SoCal beaches. It’s a good place for bird-watching, whale viewing, and exploring the Channel Islands. In May, nearby Ventura hosts the annual California Strawberry Festival.”

MADDERRA

—SHIRLI

“Dillon Beach, Calif., is a tiny, quiet town in Marin County. Go there to walk the beach, pick blackberries, and spot whales. In the evening, the whole town seems to stop and head for the nearest hill to watch the sunset.”

LEE CRANSTON

—SCOTT

“Close to San Diego, Calif., Carlsbad has outstanding scenery, great restaurants, and the weather is usually perfect!”

—KENNETH SCHWING

“I have so many happy memories of visiting the boardwalk in Santa Cruz, Calif., and riding the best wooden roller coaster ever, the Giant Dipper. There are lots of great restaurants and brewpubs to check out and many shenanigans to get up to nearby, including seeing concerts at the Felton Music Hall, riding through

MEMBERS’ FAVORITE

Sacred Stone of the Southwest is on the Brink of Extinction

Centuries ago, Persians, Tibetans and Mayans considered turquoise a gemstone of the heavens, believing the striking blue stones were sacred pieces of sky. Today, the rarest and most valuable turquoise is found in the American Southwest–– but the future of the blue beauty is unclear.

On a recent trip to Tucson, we spoke with fourth generation turquoise traders who explained that less than five percent of turquoise mined worldwide can be set into jewelry and only about twenty mines in the Southwest supply gem-quality turquoise. Once a thriving industry, many Southwest mines have run dry and are now closed.

We found a limited supply of turquoise from Arizona and purchased it for our Sedona Turquoise Collection. Inspired by the work of those ancient craftsmen and designed to showcase the exceptional blue stone, each stabilized vibrant cabochon features a unique, one-of-a-kind matrix surrounded in Bali metalwork. You could drop over $1,200 on a turquoise pendant, or you could secure 26 carats of genuine Arizona turquoise for just $99

Your satisfaction is 100% guaranteed. If you aren’t completely happy with your purchase, send it back within 30 days for a complete refund of the item price.

The supply of Arizona turquoise is limited, don’t miss your chance to own the Southwest’s brilliant blue treasure. Call today!

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• Arizona turquoise • Silver-finished settings Sedona Turquoise Collection

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C. 1 1/2" Earrings (10 ctw)

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C. Necklace enlarged to show luxurious color

“We like Brookings, Ore., because it is not overly touristy. Head north along the coast for great scenery or south toward Crescent City, Calif., to explore redwoods and more beaches. We call our trips here our ‘green fix.’ It’s a dramatic change from the gray and tan of where we live in Nevada.” —NANCY MEAD

the redwoods on the Roaring Camp railroads, and hiking at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park.” —LYNNE KELLNER

“Just south of Santa Cruz, Calif., Capitola is more intimate and less crowded. Hang out at the beach or on the wharf. There’s a nice little movie theater, art galleries, several good restaurants, and Overshine Wine Co. has a tasting room.” —MICHAEL BULL

“Pacific City is one of the few Oregon beach towns not on Highway 101. Hike the Great Dune at Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area and view Haystack Rock (also called Chief Kiwanda Rock), a large sea stack off the coast. Situated right on the beach, Pelican Brewing Company is a fun place to watch the surfers and dory boats come in. If you are an oyster fan, go to the Fish Peddler at Pacific Oyster in nearby Bay City. It’s well worth the drive.” —STEVE WARE

“I love Newport Beach, Calif. You can go bodyboarding, explore tide pools, and amble along the city’s two piers. Visit Fashion Island, an outdoor shopping center with fountains and koi fish, and be sure to take the ferry to Balboa Island.”

—JONATHAN NIELSEN

“Monterey, Calif., is a great weekend getaway from the San Francisco Bay Area. You can park and walk to so many places in town, including the Monterey Bay Aquarium, the Old Town neighborhood, and many historic adobe buildings. On Lighthouse Avenue, explore the antique shops and diverse restaurants featuring local seafood. We sample something new on each trip.”

—KATHLEEN HARRISON

“Pismo Beach, Calif., has miles of white sand beaches and camping sites just a few feet back from the surf. It’s a great escape from the spring and summer heat.”

—WILLIAM J.B. STEELE

“In the California Channel Islands, Avalon on Santa Catalina is lovely. It reminds me of the Greek islands. I like to hike, kayak, and just laze around at the beach. Catalina’s other little town, Two Harbors, also has lots of great hiking, diving, and boating. I have been visiting the island for over 50 years. It just feels like home.”

—LAUREN ELIZABETH HELFAND

“Depoe Bay, Ore., is my favorite beach town on the West Coast. It has a spouting horn (a natural blowhole that shoots seawater high into the air), many unique shops, and its own local pod of whales.” —DOUG BROWN

NEXT QUESTION

What’s your favorite taco place in the West, and why?

Email us at otr@viamagazine.com. You may be quoted in a future issue.

MANUELA DURSON / ALAMY

DISCOVER

ADVERTISING SECTION summer

Discover theme-park thrills and tomorrow’s adventures!

Anaheim is a destination synonymous with family fun, and this year’s events will only add to that reputation. Celebrate happy at the Disneyland® Resort during its 70th Anniversary Celebration! Watch the radiant Paint the Night Parade as it returns to Disneyland® Park, as well as the spectacular Wondrous Journeys fireworks show. You won’t want to miss the all-new World of Color Happiness! show presented by pandora® Jewelry at Disney California Adventure® Park. Experience a celebration of Happy like never before coming to The Happiest Place on Earth!

While you’re in town, extend your trip to take in some of the other exciting eats, delicious desserts, family favorites, sports, and shopping Anaheim offers. Whether you’re indulging in the many offerings found at the Anaheim Packing House, or grabbing a sweet treat downtown at House of Chimney

Cakes, the food scene in Anaheim is as eclectic and flavorful as the people who live here.

The Angels baseball regular season runs from April through September, while the Anaheim Ducks hockey regular season starts in October and ends in March. You have the opportunity to watch professional sports most of the year. Be sure to check the calendar to ensure these home teams are in town.

If you’re looking for a bargain, or a luxury shopping experience, you won’t have to go far. The Outlets at Orange offer a wide variety of brands at discount prices while South Coast Plaza has the largest collection of luxury brands on the West Coast.

Just minutes from the California coastline, Anaheim is the perfect base of stay for your Southern California vacation. Anaheim has several accommodation options—many within walking distance of Disneyland® Resort.

Anaheim accommodations are generally more affordable than many other Southern California destinations, with larger rooms that feel like a home away from home. Many hotels have family rooms and suites, some have pools and water parks, and there are options for most budgets.

→ For more information or to plan your next adventure, go to VisitAnaheim.org

ANAHEIM MAGIC

Top 5 Reasons to Visit The Land of Yes Buena Park, California

Famous Attractions, Award-Winning Dining and Affordable Accommodations Make Buena Park, SoCAL’s Fun City. This lively Town is 5 Miles from Disneyland ®, 10 Miles from The Beach, and 20 Miles From Los Angeles.

1 YES TO CORKSCREW COASTERS & WATERSLIDE WEDGIES

Start your adventure at Knott’s Berry Farm theme park filled with over 40 exhilarating rides like GhostRider – the tallest, fastest and longest wooden roller coaster on the West Coast. In the summer, cool off at Knott’s Soak City, a 15-acre water park packed with 23 slides, a lazy river and wave pool. Local Tip: Skip the lines at Knott’s with a Fast Lane Pass.

2 YES TO KNIGHTS IN TIGHTS & PILLAGING PIRATES

At Pirate’s Dinner Adventure, watch pirates swoop from the rigging of an 18th century galleon while eating a four-course meal. Experience the Middle Ages at Medieval Times and enjoy a royal feast while epic battles of steel and steed ensue. And visit the Beach Boulevard Club, a speakeasy cocktail lounge featuring

dueling pianos. Local Tip: At

3 YES TO COTTON CANDY COSMOS & PEANUT BUTTER PIZZA

Grab a Beef Dip at Portillo’s, famous fried chicken at Mrs. Knott’s, unique cocktail concotions at The Cauldron, one-of-a-kind pizzas at John’s Incredible Pizza, delicious Korean BBQ in Buena Park’s Koreatown, Cuban potato balls from Porto’s Bakery, or try mouth-watering soufflé pancakes at Basilur Tea. Local Tip: Choose from over 60 craft beers at Rock & Brews.

4 YES TO SEASONS OF FUN

Each season offers a new experience including Knott’s Scary Farm, Vampirate’s Halloween Show,

Boysenberry Festival, Knott’s Merry Farm, Silverado Days Festival and Summer Concert Series to name a few! Local Tip: Check out all the seasonal offerings at VisitBuenaPark. com/Events

5 YES TO AFFORDABLE HOTELS

After a long day of excitement, relax at one of Buena Park’s comfortable hotels offering great values and amenities. Local Tip: Save big with bundled attraction and hotel packages, free parking, breakfast, hotel shuttles and no resort fees!

SCAN to download or order a FREE Travel Guide

Pirates, kids get to come on stage and get sworn in as a Pirate!

UNCOVER THE BEST OF ALASKA IN ANCHORAGE

Anchorage delivers unrivaled Alaska outdoors steps away from cozy city comforts. Hike a mountain under the midnight sun, kayak to an icy blue glacier, or cast for salmon in an urban stream. Outdoor adventures are only the start; Anchorage has dining, performing arts, and cultural draws waiting to be explored.

Uncover the best of Alaska in Anchorage

AGlaciers and Trails Galore

Glaciers and Trails Galore

An extensive trail system connects parks to every part of town. Chugach State Park is minutes from downtown Anchorage, boasting nearly a half-million acres of untamed wilderness and endless trails, it’s one of the largest state parks in the nation. With 60 glaciers within 50 miles of Anchorage, you can enjoy these frozen marvels by land, sea, and air.

nchorage delivers unrivaled Alaska outdoors steps away from cozy city comforts. Hike a mountain under the midnight sun, kayak to an icy blue glacier, or cast for salmon in an urban stream. Outdoor adventures are only the start; Anchorage has dining, performing arts, and cultural draws waiting to be explored.

Abundant Wildlife

waterways. Follow the lifecycle of Chinook salmon as they make their way up Ship Creek. Watch for moose browsing through the brush along local trails. For guaranteed views, visit the Alaska Zoo or Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center.

Diverse Cultural Experiences

Glaciers and Trails Galore

Abundant Wildlife

Anchorage’s wildlife roams city parks, flocks to local coastlines, and teems in nearby waterways. Follow the lifecycle of Chinook salmon as they make their way up Ship Creek. Watch for moose browsing through the brush along local trails. For guaranteed views, visit the Alaska Zoo or Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center.

With 60 glaciers within 50 miles of Anchorage, you can enjoy these frozen marvels by land, sea, and air.

Abundant Wildlife

Shaped by the area’s Dena’ina Athabascan roots, Anchorage is a cultural crown jewel. At the Alaska Native Heritage Center, explore exhibits, performances, and stories from Alaska Native peoples. The Anchorage Museum showcases Alaska stories, art, and the diverse cultures that shaped the community and state.

Diverse Cultural Experiences

City Scene

Anchorage’s wildlife roams city parks, flocks to local coastlines, and teems in nearby

An extensive trail system connects parks to every part of town. Chugach State Park is minutes from downtown Anchorage. Boasting nearly a halfmillion acres of untamed wilderness and endless trails, it’s one of the largest state parks in the nation. With 60 glaciers within 50 miles of Anchorage, you can enjoy these frozen marvels by land, sea, and air.

City Scene

Sip on a cup of locally roasted coffee, savor fresh Alaska seafood like wild salmon and king crab, or see everything from national touring

acts to live music from local performers. Direct flights from California put the city within easy reach, while endless Alaska beauty makes it impossible to forget.

Sip on a cup of locally roasted coffee, savor fresh Alaskan seafood like wild salmon and king crab, or see everything from national touring acts to live music by local performers. Direct flights from California put the city within easy reach, while endless Alaska beauty makes it impossible to forget.

Start planning today at VisitAnchorage.net

acts to live music from local performers. Direct flights from California put the city within easy reach, while endless Alaska beauty makes it impossible to forget.

Start planning today at VisitAnchorage.net

→ Start planning today at VisitAnchorage.net

$1 Marketing Giveaway for VIA readers Who Love Olive Oil

If you’ve never tasted extra virgin olive oil fresh from the farm, get ready for a revelation...

As the culinary experts at America’s Test Kitchen have said, when it comes to olive oil, “the fresher, the better.”

Freshness endows olive oil with extraordinary flavor because the olive is a fruit and olive oil is a fruit juice. Just like other fruit juices such as orange juice, olive oil is at its zenith of robust flavor and nutritional goodness when fresh-pressed.

Your first taste of freshpressed olive oil will be a revelation. Just born of earth and tree, farm-fresh olive oil is bright, vivid, and grassy, like a garden in a bottle.

Problem is, you can’t find farm-fresh olive oil in supermarkets. That’s because most olive oils are sent here by slow cargo ships, perhaps months or even a year after the harvest in their native country. Then these oils sit on store shelves for more months, even years, growing dull, lifeless, stale, and finally rancid.

Never again tolerate stale oil! Of course, we all insist on fresh milk, fresh eggs, fresh fish, fresh meat, fresh fruit, and fresh vegetables. In every case, freshness makes a big difference in flavor and nutrition, right?

As a reader of VIA, you qualify to receive a free $39 bottle of rare, fresh-pressed extra virgin olive oil direct from the new harvest at one of the world’s top artisanal farms. Pay $1 shipping and it’s yours free as your introduction to the Fresh-Pressed Olive Oil Club, with no commitment to buy anything, now or ever. My prove-it-to-yourself offer: Try a full-size bottle (a $39 retail value) FREE. Pay just $1 shipping. No obligation to buy anything, now or ever. Supplies are limited. Claim

Don’t we deserve fresh olive oil? Of course! But you’ll never find it in supermarkets. However, now you can have it delivered to your door direct from the latest harvests at top-rated, gold medal-winning artisanal farms.

At last, a farm-to-table solution

My name is T. J. Robinson. As a food writer and former chef, I’ve launched an exclusive club for those who, like me, demand nothing less than the freshest, most flavorful, and purest artisanal olive oils in the world. Our group is called the Fresh-Pressed Olive Oil Club.

How the club works

Four times a year, I travel to the latest olive harvests around the world. From scores of the finest extra virgin olive oils at awardwinning artisanal farms, I choose the three best oils of the harvest. Then I rush a three-bottle set to each of my eagerly awaiting club members. Conveniently, this works out to one bottle per month.

Members can choose either the larger set (three 16.9 oz. bottles) for $139 per quarter… or the smaller set (three 8.45 oz. bottles) for $99 per quarter. These prices include all shipping and handling.

For this reasonably modest sum, you’ll enjoy three months of outrageously flavorful farm-fresh olive oil rushed to you direct from the harvest. Members say these best-of-thebest fresh oils are well worth the cost, since each bottle elevates dozens of meals to new heights of dining pleasure.

Every oil is independently lab certified to be 100% extra virgin olive oil. Every oil also comes with a 100% money-back guarantee. You don’t even have to return the oil to receive your 100% refund.

Every oil arrives with a Pressing Report that helps you cultivate your palate, quickly

turning you into a connoisseur of the finest extra virgin olive oils in the world. I also include lots of delicious kitchen-tested recipes from each oil’s native land, plus profiles of the proud artisans who produced each oil.

The club is truly an adventure in olive oil appreciation. Your family and guests will love these oils.

Available nowhere else in America, these oils have caused quite a sensation in the food world.

TV Chef Chris Kimball says:

“When we tasted T. J.’s harvestfresh olive oils here at Milk Street, we fell in love with their vibrant, grassy flavors.”

Food journalist Larry Olmsted writes in his best-selling book Real Food/Fake Food, “I now get most of my oil from T. J. Robinson’s Fresh-Pressed Olive Oil Club, and every time I open a bottle, my kitchen literally fills up with the smell of fresh-crushed olives—the scent explodes out of the bottle. Just breaking the seal transports me to Italy or Spain or Chile.”

“I have died and gone to Italy!!!”

Jennifer of Newport, RI, reports, “I have died and gone to Italy!!! I love these oils.”

T. J. Robinson, aka The Olive Oil Hunter®, is one of the world’s most respected authorities on all matters of olive oil. Known for his “platinum palate,” he is one of the few Americans invited to serve as a judge in Italian olive oil tasting competitions.

Joy of Salem, OR, writes, “Words cannot describe this! Pssst—since no one else was around, I even licked my plate clean—yummy!”

Try a free full-size bottle and then decide All I ask is that you try one of my full-size bottles—on the house— and then decide. There’s no commitment to buy anything, ever.

The only reason we can make such a generous free-sample offer is because the vast majority of those who try our olive oil want more of it. I believe you will, too, once you try this divine harvest-fresh olive oil on your crisp salads, delicate fish, grilled steaks, fresh veggies, or luscious pastas, or simply on a hunk of warm, crusty bread or with a slice of tangy cheese. Mmm—so delish!

Happy drizzling!

T. J. Robinson

Tinker, touch, experiment, test, play!

Leap into the wild new world of artificial intelligence this summer only at the Exploratorium. Let your curiosity roam free through 700-plus interactive exhibits in six spacious indoor and outdoor galleries. You’ll find the world-famous Tactile Dome, one-of-a-kind stores, dining, and more at Tripadvisor’s No. 1 rated museum in San Francisco.

Explore Washington’s Vancouver

No passport required to visit this Vancouver…the original Vancouver. Fly into Portland International Airport, and drive or ride 10 minutes across the Columbia River to find a welcoming and safe city with small town vibes. Experience a lively waterfront, one-ofa-kind historic attractions, and familyfriendly events all summer long.

ticket savings available at AAA.com/Exploratorium

Presented by

VANCOUVER

GREAT FALLS, MONT.

In Big Sky Country, waterfalls thunder, cowboy culture thrives, and mermaids beckon.

by tim neville

On June 13, 1805, the explorer Meriwether Lewis came around a bend in the Missouri River and heard the gigantic roar of a waterfall that sent spray “above the plain like a column of smoke.” These were the falls that some 80 years later would lend their name to the settlement that sprung up downriver. Today, the city of Great Falls, population 60,000 or so, prides itself on its Lewis and Clark heritage and boasts a magnificent interpretive center dedicated to the adventurers.

Amid the town’s many historic buildings, you’ll also find modern enticements: funky shops, airy breweries, and more than a dozen museums. Come here to play in the nearby Little Belt Mountains, scratch your art itch, and belly up to one of the country’s most memorable bars.

Where to explore outdoors

● In 1915, Ryan Dam harnessed the Great Falls’ immense power. But the thundering water and rainbow mist kicked up by the 148-foot drop is still

an awesome sight. For one of the best vantages, cross a footbridge over the Missouri River to Ryan Island Park. Nearby, pick up the River’s Edge Trail, a mostly flat, multiuse path that offers more waterfall views, including three lower cascades. You might also spot bald eagles, orioles, and pelicans. Further down the trail, at West Bank Park, rent kayaks and paddle the Missouri’s calmer waters past willows and cottonwoods. Keep watch for the sun-licked flicker of enormous brown trout feeding near the surface.

The water that flows from Giant Springs is a constant 54 degrees year-round.

● More shoreline diversions are burbling at Giant Springs State Park just east of town. Over 156 million gallons of cold water bubble up into a crystalline pool here every day. About 15 miles west of Great Falls, at First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park, take in the vast sweep of the high plains and learn how American Indian tribes hunted bison for centuries by stampeding them over the site’s milelong sandstone cliff.

● Showdown—a ski area that’s been operating since 1936—is well worth a day trip even in summer. Drive about 70 miles southeast along the Kings Hill Scenic Byway, which runs deep

into the piney folds and grassy meadows of the Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest. The route includes worthy stops such as Sluice Boxes State Park, where you can hike along an abandoned railroad bed bordered by old mines and homesteads. At Showdown, ascend the 8,200-foot summit. Views of low-slung peaks await, as well as a fire lookout tower staffed by spotters. Ask nicely, and they’ll show you how they work and live. On the way back, enjoy a French dip sandwich at Bob’s Bar in Neihart.

Where to eat

● On sunny mornings, grab a picnic table on the large patio at Magpie

and order the hearty breakfast bowl with grits, shiitake mushroom gravy, and popcorn chicken. Nearby, Mighty Mo Brewing Company makes outstanding beer using local wheat and barley. Pair a pint with a personal pizza or garlic-parmesan buffalo wings. Soak up old-school supper club vibes at Borrie’s. The family has been making authentic ravioli and Italian dishes since 1938. For a sweet treat, Big Dipper Ice Cream scoops up locally made flavors like huckleberry and cardamom.

● In the evening, pull up a Naugahyde barstool at the Sip ’n Dip Lounge. The kitschy tiki bar showcases two large

clockwise from top left: Hike limestone cliffs at Sluice Boxes State Park; the 148-foottall Great Falls; cheers to local beer at Mighty Mo Brewing Company; explore WWII history at Malmstrom Museum and Air Park; ranch decor at Antiques of Montana.

windows that look into the motel’s heated pool, where women in whimsical mermaid costumes swim most nights. The lounge also hosts an all-ages mermaid brunch twice a month.

Where to shop

● Downtown Great Falls offers an eclectic mix of locally owned shops that make for a fun afternoon of looking for things you didn’t know you needed. Dragonfly Dry Goods stocks a wide variety of Montanamade gifts—everything from handthrown mugs to barbecue spice rubs. At The Farmer’s Daughter Fibers, owner Candice English honors her Indigenous heritage by giving some of her hand-dyed yarns Blackfeet names. Non-knitters can browse tops, totes, soothing teas, and salves made with plants picked by Blackfeet herbalists.

● In the market for a ruggedly handsome ensemble? Hoglund’s Western Wear, a 74-year-old institution, has pearl-snap shirts, Wrangler jeans, and boots from floor to ceiling. The honest staff will help you find the right cowboy hat (and tell you if one doesn’t look good), then custom shape it for you. For vintage ranch decor, such as cowhide chairs, mounted horns, and bronze mustangs, wander Antiques of Montana. The sprawling store displays collections from over 25 vendors.

Things to see and do

● Museum options abound. You could ponder folk art by regional craftspeople at Paris Gibson Square Museum of Art, discover how WWII pilots trained in Great Falls for the Berlin Airlift at the Malmstrom Museum and Air Park, or climb aboard a caboose at the Montana

Museum of Railroad History. A must-see: The Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center Located on the banks of the Missouri River, its hands-on exhibits bring to life the pair’s epic early 19th-century endeavor. Try on woolen period clothing, test your canoe-pulling mettle, and watch a 25-minute documentary on the expedition directed by Ken Burns.

● The C.M. Russell Museum houses more than 3,000 works by the “cowboy artist” and his contemporaries. Russell moved to Montana as a teen not long after the Civil War, and his paintings helped create the mythology of the American West—think Dakota chiefs overlooking grassy steppes, cowboys riding bucking broncs, and brawls outside saloons. Tour his creaky house and adjacent log cabin studio to see feather headdresses, moccasins, furs, and other items he used to stage his scenes. Plan ahead to peruse work by current Western and American Indian artists at the aptly named Great Western Show, which brings thousands to town each March.

● Dig further into ranch life at the Cowboys Bar and Museum. The tavern contains a room full of artifacts, including intricately designed saddles, lassos, and a rivet set made by notorious Wild Bunch gunslinger Kid Curry. To witness rope work in action, head to the hamlet of Belt, about 20 miles southeast of town, for the 65th annual Belt PRCA Rodeo, June 14–15. While there, be sure to buy a raffle ticket for your chance to win a whole pig. Win or lose, Great Falls promises an unexpected slice of hog heaven. ●

DAY IN THE PARK

LAKE MERRITT, OAKLAND

Discover a bird sanctuary, tranquil gardens, and the city’s colorful soul.

by jennica peterson

Enjoy an afternoon stroll around Oakland’s Lake Merritt to immerse yourself in a carnival of joie de vivre. Alongside the paved 3.4-mile trail, you might see black-crowned night herons strutting, salsa dancers spinning, roller skaters discoing, gondoliers serenading, couples exchanging vows and kisses, families barbecuing, and teeter-tottering toddlers squealing as ice-cream vendors chant in Spanish, “Helado, helado, helado!”

“Lake Merritt is not just a scenic spot; it’s where the culture of Oakland thrives,” says Shayla Jamerson, the coproducer of LakeFest (more below).

“Whether you’re here to picnic with friends or just take in the views, the lake has an energy that makes you feel connected to the city.”

Similar to its famous Golden Gate Park cousin across the San Francisco Bay, Lake Merritt and the surrounding 122-acre Lakeside Park provide a natural respite amid a bustling city. But the relatively compact “Jewel of Oakland,” as Lake Merritt is often

clockwise from top left: Run or walk the park’s 3.4mile loop; relax in one of seven gardens; barbecue from Here and There at the farmers’ market; the “necklace of lights” turns 100 this year; pickled picnic provisions; nursery rhymes come alive at Children’s Fairyland.

called, is worth a special trip for the way this endearingly eclectic playground reflects its hometown’s dynamic spirit.

FOR THE BIRDS In 1870, this tidal lagoon became the nation’s first official wildlife refuge. An archipelago of five protected “bird islands” still draws thousands of feathered guests like a luxury avian resort. Start at the Rotary Nature Center to learn how to spy common species, including herons, pelicans, egrets, cormorants, and coots. The David Sibley–approved book Birds of Lake Merritt also helps.

GARDEN BLISS Discover pockets of deep peace among the park’s seven acres of themed gardens, where you can rest by a waterfall in the Japanese Garden or feel humbled by an approximately 1,600-year-old juniper in the Bonsai Garden.

TINY THRILLS Celebrating 75 years, Children’s Fairyland offers an amusement park that’s perfectly pint-sized for kids under nine. A wee Alice in Wonderland carousel and the Jolly Trolly train will thrill the littles. Don’t miss the puppet show—or the audience’s contagious giggles.

BITES AND SIGHTS On Saturdays, fill your picnic basket at the nearby Grand Lake Farmers Market. The waterfront Lake Chalet Seafood Bar & Grill is the place to slurp oysters and sip champagne—and to hire a romantic evening cruise from Dolce Vita Gondola. After sunset, a “necklace” of 3,000-plus lights glows around the lake.

TOP TIME TO GO On June 21, the park hosts LakeFest, an annual

celebration of the city’s culture, creativity, and community. Families can dance to live Latin, Afrobeat, and hip-hop music; make crafts and brave a mini obstacle course in the Kids Zone; and sample a diverse range of local eats, including Filipino lumpia, vegan soul food, and jerk chicken. Jamerson says, “Everywhere you turn, you’ll see local entrepreneurs, performers, and families coming together to enjoy a space that feels like home.” ●

COEUR D’ALENE, IDAHO

Time to play a floating golf green. Explore a massive theme park. Stay in amazing accommodations.Visit luxurious spas. Take a lake cruise. Shop the downtown. Relax in a park. Ski epic powder. Play in a casino. Eat like a king. Zipline. Wake surf. Sail. Hike. Ice skate. Fish. Dance. Visit. It’s time to book your dream getaway! Plan your summer escape today at coeurdalene.org

With its small-town charm and gold rush history, Nome is a bucket-list destination for many travelers.

NOME, ALASKA

From coastal tundra to glacier-carved peaks, the roads from Nome reveal a world few people ever see.

by andrew tarica

As the days stretch out under the midnight sun, Nome’s wild country calls. Situated on the southern coast of Alaska’s Seward Peninsula, this town of around 3,600 is rugged and remote. Nome isn’t accessible via the state highway system, but it’s a short flight from Anchorage and a popular port of call on Bering Sea cruises. Travelers

who make their way here will be rewarded with drives through roughhewn glacial landscapes, views of musk ox and reindeer herds, and nuggets of gold rush history.

In 1899, miners struck gold on one of Nome’s sandy beaches. By the following year, the town’s population had swelled by more than 20,000, and prospectors’ white tents punctuated the shore for 30 miles. Today, most full-time fortune hunters dredge the seafloor for the shiny mineral; amateur enthusiasts can also pan for gold in designated areas.

Long before the mining boom, this land was home to Inupiaq communities, who crisscrossed the coastline hunting sea mammals, moose, and caribou. Today, over 50% of the town’s residents identify as Alaska Native, primarily Inupiaq, Siberian Yupik, and Central Yup’ik.

Start your coastal journey at the Nome Visitor Center. Leon Boardway, who calls himself the “welcoming

committee,” can be found here most days, telling tales and offering advice. The 74-year-old Nomeite recommends renting a car from the Aurora Inn and exploring the three gravel roads that start in town and lead into the wilderness. “Each day, you take a different route,” Boardway says. “They each have their own charm—it depends on what you’re in the mood for.”

Solitude is guaranteed. In some areas, “you’ll see no evidence of humans, and it’ll feel like nobody has stepped here before,” says Boardway.

Day 1: Nome-Teller Road

Traverse tundra meadows and coastal plains on this route, which runs 73 miles northwest of town along the western flank of the Kigluaik Mountains. The first few miles are prime wildlife territory, so be on the lookout for reindeer, musk oxen, and birds from faraway lands. Some 160 species travel to the Seward Peninsula each spring, including Arctic loons,

SWEET STOPS

spectacled eiders, and the bar-tailed godwit, which holds the world record for longest nonstop avian flight for its 8,425-mile trek from Nome to Tasmania, Australia.

Pause at the Sinuk River Bridge to gape at the vastness of the valley, rolling tundra, and jagged peaks beyond. Interested in a short hike? Pull over at Mile 48 and head for the rock ledge on the driver’s left. You’ll be treated to sweeping views of hillsides carpeted with reddish-purple Kamchatka rhododendrons.

The road ends in Teller, a small Inupiaq village. From the sand spit at the edge of town, where puffins can be spotted, it’s about 80 miles to Big Diomede Island in Russia.

Day 2: Nome-Council Highway

Start the day in town with an omelet stuffed with fresh red king crab at Pingo Bakery, a cafe that specializes in hearty breakfasts featuring the local catch. Then continue along this 72-mile road that offers coastal beaches, tundra, river valleys, and a boreal forest.

After passing the windswept headlands of Cape Nome, make like a musher and stop at the Safety Roadhouse, the final checkpoint on the Iditarod sled dog race. Snack on free peanuts and tack a dollar to the wall papered with money. Further up the road, at Mile 33, stroll a wooden walkway over a wetlands bog to view the rusted remains of three steam locomotives. Dubbed “The Last Train to Nowhere,” the engines were meant to be workhorses of the region’s mines, but the rail company became mired in debt and a storm permanently stranded them in 1913.

On the drive back, don’t miss the Swanberg Dredge, which dates to the

1940s. On the town’s western edge, fans of the Discovery Channel’s hit series Bering Sea Gold will also recognize the Port of Nome, home to an eclectic assortment of modern dredges.

Day 3: Nome-Taylor Highway

More commonly called the Kougarok Road, this route is Boardway’s favorite. The roughly 86-mile journey begins at the edge of the Bering Sea and travels northeast into the craggy Kigluaik Mountains. “You get into those mountains, and they just keep going,” he says. “It’s quite a feeling when the serenity takes over.” The road crosses several clear-flowing streams, including the Nome and Grand Central rivers, where folks fish for Arctic grayling, Dolly Varden, and four species of salmon.

Keep your eyes peeled for musk ox along the way; there are an estimated 2,000-plus on the peninsula, and their favorite hangouts include ridgelines and hilltops. Near Mile 25, look closely at the rocky outcrops on your right, and you might spy raptor eyries. At Mile 35, spend some time birding at the Grand Central River Bridge. Listen for warblers in the willows and watch harlequin ducks and red-breasted mergansers in the rushing river below. In late summer, grizzlies peruse the banks for spawned-out salmon and juicy berries.

Boardway encourages photographers to use their peripheral vision when scanning the landscape for wildlife. “If you notice something that doesn’t belong, that will be an animal,” he says. “And don’t even think about edging up close to them.” Keep your distance, snap a photo, and treasure your encounter with this remarkably untamed place. ●

Step

Mission de Oro

Doctor

120db

CRUISE FOR YOU FIND THE

If you can envision it, a cruise line offers it.

by janice wald henderson

A Viking ocean ship heads to port in Iceland.

As cruising continues to skyrocket in popularity, offerings have diversified beyond the avid cruiser’s wildest dreams. Travelers can go nearly everywhere on water: Small and large ships sail most seas, riverboats visit charm-aplenty towns, and expeditions reach the ends of the earth. Cruisers can easily zero in on exactly the experience they seek for any type of trip, from romance to adventure.

Onboard facilities deliver a near-dizzying array of variety. Vessels can provide a range of global cuisines, quiet ambiences or party-hearty vibes, minimal entertainment to big Broadway revues—and even amusement park-style rides. Here are several options to find a water voyage that fits how you travel.

FOR ADULTS

viking ocean and expedition

Cruisers wanting an adults-only voyage will adore Viking’s ships designed for curious travelers. All 12 ocean-going vessels accommodate from 930 to 998 passengers ages 18 and older, and share popular amenities and venues. Don’t expect a splashy casino—organized activities and entertainment are low-key. Instead, cruisers revel in an extensive library of books placed around the ship; in-depth port talks and destination videos; and a much-admired Nordic spa, featuring a pool, sauna, hot tub, steam room, cold plunge pool, and even a cold room filled with snow.

The ships’ design evokes a boutique ambiance, and afternoon tea is popular daily. All restaurants are complimentary, including the excellent Italian Manfredi’s and Mamsen’s, a Norwegian deli with stellar waffles and open-faced sandwiches. On Viking’s two 378passenger expedition ships, Polaris and Octantis, passengers can participate in scientific research.

HOT

2025

ITINERARY

Viking Orion and Viking Venus sail 15 days between Sydney, Australia, and Auckland, New Zealand. Outings include a Sydney Harbour boat ride, a Tasmanian wildlife sanctuary visit, and a visit with yellow-eyed penguins in Dunedin, New Zealand; multiple departures between November 2025 and February 2027.

Relaxation and views await at Viking’s serene Nordic Spa.

FOR FAMILIES

royal caribbean international Boredom is inconceivable on a Royal Caribbean International cruise. Its wide variety of ships promises activities to enthrall families, particularly those with young children and teenagers. Vessels are divided into seven classes, from the smaller, destination-driven Vision class to the megaresorts of the Icon class. Most ships offer interactive family-oriented shows, waterslides, zip lines, ice-skating rinks, and more.

The 5,610-passenger Icon of the Seas debuted in 2024 as the world’s largest. It duplicates—if not tops—choices available at many land resorts catering to families. This vessel contains eight distinct neighborhoods. Families with children ages six and under frequent Surfside, with a carousel, arcade, and play area including kiddie pools. Thrill Island’s six-waterslide park lures all ages. There’s even a suite designed with kids in mind, the Ultimate Family Townhouse, which boasts a slide and a karaoke machine. Passengers seeking a kid-free environment head to Chill Island’s Swim & Tonic, Royal Caribbean’s first swim-up bar at sea.

HOT 2025 ITINERARY Icon of the Seas sails seven days round-trip from Miami, visiting Mexico and Honduras. Outings include snorkeling at the world’s second-largest barrier reef and exploring Mayan wonders along the Riviera Maya; departs September 6 and September 27.

FOR FOODIES

oceania cruises

Oceania is a cruise line purpose-built for culinary devotees. On its eight ships (including Allura, debuting this summer), all specialty dining venues are complimentary—rare on an upper-premium cruise line.

Oceania’s four newest ships—1,250-passenger Marina and sister ship Riviera, and 1,200-passenger Vista and Allura—feature hands-on cooking schools led by expert instructors who guide students through every culinary angle, from safe and proper knife skills to preparing dishes evoking the ship’s itinerary. Signature restaurants include the Italian Toscana, starring a separate olive oil menu and rolling cart from which a server encourages tastings; Polo Grill steakhouse, where chefs sear 28-day aged Black Angus USDA Prime beef; and Red Ginger with its modern Asian signature dishes like lobster pad thai and a seven spices-crusted lamb rack with wasabi lamb jus. Vista and Allura’s wide variety of dining options include the health-forward Aquamar Kitchen (oat and almond milk are made in-house), and Jacques, the line’s iconic French eatery named after Oceania’s first culinary director, Jacques Pepin.

HOT 2025 ITINERARY

Vista sails 14 days round-trip from Southampton, England, visiting northern capitals including Berlin, with overnights in Stockholm and Oslo; departs July 21.

Parents find refuge in Icon of the Seas’ adults-only Hideaway neighborhood.

Lobster lovers will adore the menu at Oceania’s Polo Grill.

FOR ADVENTURE

silversea cruises

With four expedition ships to choose from, Silversea knows how to deliver a luxurious adventure. These cruises are cozier than a standard cruise, with capacities usually in the hundreds versus the thousands, and often journey to remote areas in search of rare wildlife and scenery. Silversea’s three ice-classrated lines sail to the polar regions, but also visit far-flung destinations like Australia’s Kimberley region and Easter Island. The fourth ship, 100-passenger Silver Origin, exclusively sails the Galapagos, embracing local culture.

Expedition cruises lean pricey, but the value is significant as most, if not all, shore excursions and gear such as polar jackets are included. Silversea’s expedition team members hold advanced degrees and are experienced in safety protocols and the destinations visited. In polar regions, the average one-to-one ratio of team members to passengers allows cruisers invaluable personal time with experts. Other notable inclusions are suite accommodations, a dedicated butler, most dining, most alcohol, and gratuities.

HOT 2025 ITINERARY The line’s newest expedition ship, Silver Endeavour, sails six days round-trip to King George Island, including Antarctic flights (which avoids cruising the often-turbulent Drake Passage), and explores the Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands; multiple departures from October 26 to November 19.

Kayakers explore Antarctica’s extraordinary Neko Harbour.

FOR MILLENNIALS

celebrity cruises

Celebrity Cruises strikes exactly the right note for younger cruising fans. Restaurants, bars, and lounges carry a fun, upscale vibe, and perpetual innovations mean each ship feels fresh.

Millennials flock to the Martini Bar & Crush, an ice-topped bar that’s a fixture on 10 of Celebrity’s 15 ships. Also available on most of its fleet: Celebrity’s silent disco gets the party going with a club atmosphere that offers multiple genres of music through headphones where individuals select from channels playing pop, Latin, electronic, and more. The ABBA sing-along, a party devoted to the

Swedish pop group, also draws big crowds. Celebrity’s fleet ranges from super small at 16 passengers (the Galapagos-based Celebrity Xploration) to its largest, Celebrity Ascent, which holds 3,260 passengers. Celebrity Ascent as well as Celebrity Beyond boasts Daniel Boulud’s only at-sea restaurant, Le Voyage, where fine dining lovers can experience a global-inspired tasting menu designed by the Michelin star–decorated chef.

HOT 2025 ITINERARY

Celebrity Xcel sails nine days round-trip from Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Outings include a butterfly farm visit in Aruba and snorkeling in Bonaire National Marine Park; departs November 28.

Juneau, Alaska’s Goldbelt Tram is one of many excursions available on Celebrity.

FOR TRADITION

cunard

For cruisers who love dialing up their style, and perhaps ballroom dancing, Cunard is the line to book. In fact, its 2,691-passenger Queen Mary 2 offers the largest ballroom at sea. Among Cunard’s four ships, the newest, 2,996-passenger Queen Anne, embraces a more modern take on tradition. Its specialty restaurant, Aranya, serves one of the only full Indian menus at sea.

Passengers are encouraged to dress up come dusk— think cocktail attire—and most do. On gala evenings, you’ll spot many tuxedos and gowns on the dance floor, which often reflect themes such as black and white, Roaring ’20s, and masquerade.

In a nod to Cunard’s British heritage, daily complimentary afternoon tea welcomes all passengers, beautifully presented while a pianist or harpist performs. Cunard packs its sea days with a wide variety of wellcurated activities from sunrise to sunset, such as guest lectures, classical music performances, deck and sports games, and dance classes.

HOT 2025 ITINERARY

Queen Anne sails eight days round-trip from Southampton, England, through the Norwegian fjords on a Wellness at Sea cruise where Harper’s Bazaar editors host inspiring talks and invigorating classes; departs July 5.

SOLO CRUISE TIPS

Good news for solo cruisers: More ships now offer single accommodations, so travelers can avoid paying single supplements. Here are tips on making the most of a solo cruise.

FOR LUXURY seabourn

This ultra-luxury line offers six gorgeous ships with an elegant country club ambiance. Seabourn takes pride in lavishing cruisers with attention, as crew members quickly learn names and preferences.

The amenities are numerous, and everything from all-suite accommodations and all dining (with caviar service available 24/7) to Wi-Fi and gratuities are included. Fine-dining restaurants include the acclaimed Solis, a Mediterranean eatery now fleetwide. In select destinations, the Caviar in the Surf beach party is a signature event, where crew members serve the pricey roe from surfboards. The line also features superb extra-fee food and beverage events, such as premium whiskey and wine tastings, sommelier-hosted wine-pairing luncheons, and Dinner Under the Stars, multicourse extravaganzas matched with wines of devotees’ dreams.

HOT 2025 ITINERARY Seabourn

Ovation’s 20-day Tyrrhenian Treasures and Moroccan Gems sails from Monte Carlo, Monaco, to Barcelona. Outings include a Casablanca overnight, a paella cooking class in Valencia, Spain, and tour of Gala Dalí Castle, a medieval castle remodeled by Salvador Dalí; departs October 9.

1 If solo travelers seek socialization, they should consider ships offering singlesonly activities. Evening parties are great ways to meet companions for dining, sharing ship activities, and exploring ashore.

2 Keep in mind it’s easier to meet people on smaller ships because you’ll likely see the same people more often. Ships without cabins for singles may offer a reduced or waived supplement on some itineraries.

3 Join a wine tasting, cooking class, or art workshop—any onboard activity that encourages interaction with those with similar passions. Same goes for smallgroup shore excursions.

4 Look for ships that set aside solo cruiser dining tables. If you pre fer company, ask the restaurant maître d’ to be seated with other singles or with a large group.

All dressed up for a gala night on Cunard’s newest ship, Queen Anne.

It’s always champagne hour on Seabourn.

WORLD CRUISE TIPS

World cruises, a growing trend, offer passengers a chance to see a lot of the globe over the course of three to five months, but it can also be done in segments. Here are some tips for booking one.

1 Passengers should measure the cruise fee by value, as world cruises come with varying inclusions that impact the actual cost. For instance, complimentary excursions or business class airfare on a luxury world cruise may offset the cost difference between a luxury and premium line.

2 World cruises often include numerous sea days as ships transition between continents. Antsier cruisers should seek itineraries with minimal sea days or cruise lines that prioritize a lot of activities.

3 For more time off the ship, look for itineraries that have overnight stops at ports.

4 Cabin size, location, and comforts matter greatly on lengthy sails; travelers should take that into consideration before booking.

5 Packing for a long voyage can feel stressful. Travelers should check if a world cruise is sailing only in warm climates or a mix.

6 World cruises can fill up a year or more in advance, so travelers should book far out.

FOR MULTI-GENERATIONS

princess cruises

Multiple generation cruising can be tricky—travelers need ships that keep everyone happy, from children to grandparents. Princess fits the bill. This line offers accommodations, entertainment, and dining catering to all ages, without over-the-top frenetic activities that might irk older generations. Age-appropriate activities abound, with kid, tween, and teen centers. The popular Movies Under the Stars and acrobatic performances appeal to a wide range of ages. Meanwhile, parents can barhop, gamble at the casino, get pampered at Lotus Spa, take in Broadway-style shows, and dine in specialty restaurants such as The Catch by Rudi, which features an overflowing seafood tower. Ships, totaling 17, keep evolving in size and offerings. Newer ships include Sanctuary accommodations, providing large families more breathing room. On the line’s newest ship, the 4,300-passenger Sun Princess, the Sanctuary Sky Suite sleeps five and the Grand Suite sleeps four, both with exclusive amenities. Multi-gen parties can book a suite for the immediate family and a Serenity balcony cabin for grandparents. Besides traditional cabins, this ship offers 51 accessible staterooms, too.

HOT 2025 ITINERARY Ruby Princess sails 20 days from San Francisco to Alaska. Marvel at the Inside Passage with stops at nine ports total and multiple glaciers including Glacier Bay National Park; departs June 12.

Princess’ Movies Under the Stars delights the entire family.

FOR RIVER CRUISING

amawaterways

This family-owned riverboat line ventures much farther than many competitors plying traditional European waters. AmaWaterways’ 31 custom-designed ships sail Europe’s major rivers and venture to Southeast Asia’s Mekong River, Africa’s Chobe River, Egypt’s Nile River, and its newest route, Colombia’s Magdalena River.

These modern riverboats allow for a more personal experience with about 150 passengers and small-group activities such as fitness classes, and hiking and biking shore excursions. One ship, AmaMagna, even has a pickleball court. Activities are divided into three pace levels, so all passengers can explore in comfort. Next year, AmaWaterways will offer select Smithsonian Journeys, featuring experts such as art historians, scientists, and archeologists who engage with guests.

Cruisers can make discoveries at meal time, too. The onboard restaurants emphasize seasonal local ingredients and incorporate regional specialties such as French cheese and Swiss chocolate. The Chef’s Table experience offers more intimacy with 28 seats where guests watch a chef prepare multiple courses in an open kitchen.

HOT 2025 ITINERARY

AmaMagdalena sails eight days between Barranquilla and Cartagena, Colombia. Outings include a street jazz performance in Santa Barbara de Pinto, a historic walking tour in Mompox (founded in 1540), and magnificent bird-watching in Magangué. Departures available year-round. ●

janice wald henderson is in her fourth decade of cruising and has sailed all seven seas. She has won seven national travel journalism awards, authored two cookbooks, and hosted international food and travel events. AmaWaterways’ AmaPrima sails through Passau, Germany.

Adventure CHOOSE YOUR

Whatever you like to do on your summer vacation, there’s a national park that’s a perfect fit.

For those of us who live in the West, a national park vacation is a summer classic, like a Fourth of July cookout or an August doubleheader. And why not? The West’s national parks are grand, they’re gorgeous, they’re inspiring, and they’re well within driving distance.

But what if you have a specific kind of summer fun in mind—family-friendly hiking, say, or beachcombing? The national parks have you covered there, too. Whatever outdoor activity you most like to pursue on vacation, there’s a park that offers a stellar experience. Here are nine of the West’s most popular national parks and the specialties that make them shine especially bright. (Note: If circumstances make a visit to a given national park impossible this summer, see our sidebar on nearby state-park alternatives, on page 52.)

by peter fish

1 Admiring the big trees, Sequoia;

2 The Milky Way rises above Canyonlands; 3 Buffalo and geyser, Yellowstone; 4 Beachcombing at Olympic; 5 Historic cliff dwellings, Mesa Verde; 6 Hiking among the hoodoos, Bryce Canyon; 7 Mountain goat, Glacier; 8 Taking in the view, Grand Canyon; 9 Bike boardwalk, Yosemite.

Best Views

GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK

“This can’t be real.” That’s the usual response to your first glimpse of the Grand Canyon. Masterfully sculpted by the Colorado River, it is so big (1,904 square miles), so deep (more than a mile in parts), so brilliantly colored, it’s like the world’s most hypnotizing special effect. But take the time to stroll the rim and gaze out at the ancient rock temples, mesas, and buttes, and the canyon will gradually take on a stupendous solidity. Very few places in the world have so many soul-stirring views. Your challenge will be deciding which one is your favorite.

WHERE TO GO Mostly paved, the Rim Trail runs along the canyon’s South Rim for about 13 photogenic miles, east and west from Grand Canyon Village, letting you walk and gaze as far as you want. Take time to stop in

at Kolb Studio: Once home to pioneer canyon photographers the Kolb Brothers, now a gallery and gift shop, it dangles right on the edge of the canyon. The Yavapai Geology Museum and Observation Station has its own superb vistas plus excellent exhibits on canyon geology.

INSIDER TIP

Two historic canyon landmarks—both designed by architect Mary Colter—combine charming architecture with stunning views: Hermit’s Rest, reached by shuttle from Grand Canyon Village, and Desert View Watchtower, about 20 miles east on Desert View Drive.

EAT AND DRINK For morning coffee, hit the Bright Angel Fountain, then stroll out to admire a canyon sunrise. Beef lovers will like the Bright Angel Lodge’s Arizona Steakhouse. For cocktails with a view, head to the El Tovar Lounge’s veranda.

More parks for views

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park COLORADO

This impossibly steep, impossibly narrow canyon is both awe-inspiring and a little scary.

Haleakala National Park

HAWAII

The vista from the 10,023-foot summit is breathtaking: On a clear day, you can see the Big Island almost 100 miles away.

Best Stargazing

CANYONLANDS NATIONAL PARK

Wildly beautiful in the daytime, Utah’s Canyonlands is downright dazzling at night. Far from any major metro area, you can see thousands of stars twinkling above, compared with the hundreds you might see in a city. DarkSky International has named it a Gold-Tier International Dark Sky Park.

WHERE TO GO Park visitors can enjoy the show at night sky programs—complete with telescopes—that rangers run through the summer. Or stargaze on your own; one prime spot is at Island in the Sky Visitor Center.

INSIDER TIP The Milky Way, likely brighter than you’ve ever seen it before, is the star of Canyonlands’ summer sky. This summer, the Perseid meteor shower will peak Aug. 12 and 13.

EAT AND DRINK There are no restaurants in the park, but standouts in nearby Moab include Moab Brewery for craft beer and burgers and the Jailhouse Café for hearty breakfasts.

Best Family Hiking

BRYCE CANYON NATIONAL PARK

Looking down at the trails descending into the deep rock amphitheaters that dominate this park in southwestern Utah, you might think, “I don’t want to walk back up that.” But you don’t actually need to hike down into these canyons to appreciate their corrugated beauty. Instead, you can find blissful walking and breathtaking views from the easier, flatter trails that hug the canyon’s rim.

WHERE TO GO The park’s Rim Trail runs along the edge of Bryce Amphitheater, which forms the heart of the park. It’s 5.5 miles from Bryce Point to Fairyland Point, but you can shorten that by taking the park shuttle to your starting point, hiking your hike, then catching the shuttle back to your car. The half-mile between Sunset Point and Sunrise Point is particularly popular.

INSIDER TIP The Visitor Center’s exhibits do a great job of explaining the canyon’s geology, including the signature hoodoos. (Hint: They required lots of ice and rain.)

More parks for stargazing

Arches National Park UTAH

This International Dark Sky Park has a dedicated stargazing area at Panorama Point.

Death Valley National Park CALIFORNIA/ NEVADA

Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes is one of the park’s most popular spots.

EAT AND DRINK The Lodge at Bryce Canyon restaurant is the spot for upscale dining; for casual, hit nearby Valhalla Pizzeria and Coffee Shop.

More parks for family hiking

Crater Lake National Park

OREGON

The Discovery Point and Watchman Peak trails both provide superb lake views without requiring too much sweat.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

HAWAII

The Crater Rim Trail provides prime views of Kilauea caldera.

National Park Alternatives

Can’t get a reservation at the national park of your choice? Consider one of the nearby state parks or other locations that offer similarly stellar scenery and fun.

NATIONAL PARK

Bryce Canyon

ALTERNATIVE

Kodachrome Basin

State Park, Utah

With a name like Kodachrome, you expect a colorful park—and this one is, with red-orange rock formations rising against blue Utah skies.

NATIONAL PARK

Canyonlands

ALTERNATIVE

Dead Horse Point

State Park, Utah

Talk about a cinematic landscape: The Grand Canyon finale of 1991’s Thelma and Louise was filmed at this spectacular Utah park.

NATIONAL PARK

Glacier ALTERNATIVE

Waterton Lakes

National Park, Alberta

Glacier’s just-acrossthe-Canadian-border twin is rich in wildlife; it’s also home to the majestic 1927-vintage Prince of Wales Hotel.

Note: You’ll need a passport to enter and leave Canada.

NATIONAL PARK

Grand Canyon

ALTERNATIVE

Red Rock State Park, Ariz.

Brilliantly colored rock formations make this Sedona park incredibly Instagram-worthy.

NATIONAL PARK

Mesa Verde

ALTERNATIVE

Durango, Colo.

An hour and a half from Mesa Verde, Durango is plenty historic, with

handsomely restored 19th-century buildings and the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad.

NATIONAL PARK

Olympic ALTERNATIVE Cape Disappointment State Park, Wash.

No disappointment here—just beautiful beaches, historic North Head Lighthouse, and the Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center.

(The explorers arrived here in 1805.)

NATIONAL PARK Sequoia & Kings Canyon ALTERNATIVE Calaveras Big Trees State Park, Calif.

This Gold Country park holds two impressive groves of giant sequoias and easy hiking on the 1.5-mile North Grove Trail.

NATIONAL PARK Yellowstone ALTERNATIVE Harriman State Park, Idaho On the Henry’s Fork River south of Yellowstone, Harriman offers excellent hiking and some of the best fly-fishing in the United States.

NATIONAL PARK Yosemite ALTERNATIVE Plumas-Eureka State Park, Calif. Northwest of Lake Tahoe, Plumas-Eureka wows with sweeping Sierra Nevada views, a variety of trails, and gold rush history.

Best Bicycling

YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK

Yosemite is famed for its craggy mountain drama: Sierra Nevada landmarks such as El Capitan and Half Dome rise thousands of feet above the lush, green Yosemite Valley. One of the best ways to view that dramatic landscape is from the relative comfort and ease of a bicycle traversing more than 12 miles of paved paths that lace the valley floor. Those paths are mostly flat and gentle, and many of them give you the added benefit of avoiding busy traffic and crowded parking lots.

WHERE TO GO If you brought your bike, you’re already in business. If you didn’t, you can rent cruiser bikes (and helmets) at Yosemite Valley Lodge or Curry Village; they offer smaller kids’ bikes as well. One good 2.5-mile route starts at the Yosemite Falls Parking Lot, runs south and east to cross Swinging and Sentinel Bridges over the Merced River, then back.

INSIDER TIP To add a short hike, park your bike in the racks at the Lower Yosemite Falls Trailhead, then take the 1-mile loop hike to admire the splashing falls.

EAT AND DRINK In Yosemite Village, the Village Grill’s burgers and shakes will offset some of the calories you burn biking. The historic Ahwahnee Dining Room is renowned for lavish dinners and Sunday brunches; experience it more casually at breakfast.

More parks for bicycling

Grand Teton

National Park

WYOMING

A 20.5-mile paved multiuse path runs from Jackson (where you can rent bikes) to Jenny Lake, located within the park.

Saguaro

National Park

ARIZONA

The 8-mile Cactus Forest Drive will show you plenty of the park’s signature cacti.

DREAM DESTINATIONS BY RAIL

The Best of Italy, Cinque Terre, and the Amalfi Coast

Venice > Florence > Cinque Terre > Rome > Sorrento

13 DAY ITINERARY:

•Sample the best of Venice and take a gondola ride along the canals

•Visit the world-famous galleries in Florence

•Enjoy a sunset cruise with picturesque views of the Cinque Terre Coast

•Explore the Colosseum and the ancient ruins of the Roman Forum and Pompeii

10 DAY ITINERARY:

•Enjoy good old-fashioned craic, indulge in a Guinness tour and explore the city

10 DAY ITINERARY:

•Admire the myriad architectural styles of coastal Cork

•Take a scenic drive through the rugged and dramatic landscapes of the Ring of Kerry on a guided sightseeing tour in Killarney

•Travel to the highest train station in Europe aboard the Jungfrau Railway

•Marvel at some spectacular sights from the famous rotating cable car to Mount Titlis

•Enjoy the freshest Swiss air and views of the iconic Matterhorn mountain from the highest open-air railway in Europe

Lucerne > Interlaken > Jungfraujoch > Montreux > Zermatt > St Moritz

Dublin > Cork > Killarney > Galway > Dublin

The Best of Switzerland

Best Beaches

OLYMPIC NATIONAL PARK

In Washington’s lush, rugged northwest corner, Olympic National Park protects 73 miles of coastline—one of the longest stretches of wilderness coast in the lower 48 states. Driftwood-strewn, with castle-like sea stacks rising just beyond the breakers, these beaches aren’t meant for sunning or swimming. Instead, they’re ideal for beachcombing and reveling in nature’s drama.

WHERE TO GO Two beaches combine scenery with easy access. Toward the park’s north, Rialto Beach boasts especially spectacular coastal views. To the south, Ruby Beach is named for the red stones (actually garnets) that dot the beach. The tide pools are excellent: Be on the lookout for anemones, starfish, and Dungeness crab.

INSIDER TIP Attention Twilight fans: Bella and Jacob liked to hang out at First Beach, south of Rialto Beach in the town of La Push.

EAT AND DRINK South of Ruby Beach, Kalaloch Lodge’s Creekside Restaurant offers seafood, burgers, and views. Near Rialto Beach, the River’s Edge Restaurant in La Push does a solid job with salmon and chowder.

More parks for beaches

Redwood National and State Parks

CALIFORNIA

Crescent Beach is perfect for strolling. Another option: Gold Bluffs Beach in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park.

Golden Gate National Recreation Area

CALIFORNIA

Crissy Field has lovely views of San Francisco Bay and is dog-friendly, to boot.

Best Wildlife Viewing

GLACIER NATIONAL PARK

Wild animals love Montana’s Glacier. The park is home to 71 species of mammals and 276 types of birds. Why such diversity? Straddling the continental divide, the park is at an ecological crossroads: Plants and animals endemic to the Rockies, Pacific Northwest, and Great Plains mix and mingle here. The topography—elevations range from 3,000 to 10,000 feet—adds to the diversity.

WHERE TO GO The park’s classic drive, the 50-mile Going-to-the-Sun Road, provides fine opportunities for wildlife watching, especially at Logan Pass, where mountain goats and bighorn sheep can be seen wandering near the Visitor Center. The Many Glacier area is good for spotting grizzly bears on the slopes above Swiftcurrent Lake. The park wisely emphasizes wildlife safety, encouraging hikers to carry bear spray and suggesting that firsttimers join ranger-led group hikes. Or just scout Glacier’s wild denizens from your car.

INSIDER TIP This summer, the park is expected to require reservations to drive Going-to-the-Sun Road. For current status, visit nps.gov/glac

EAT AND DRINK Glacier’s historic hotels—Many Glacier, Lake McDonald, Glacier Park Lodge— are among the national park system’s most beautiful, and they’re all excellent places to grab a latte, a burger, or an elegant dinner.

More parks for wildlife viewing

Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve

ALASKA

A haven for humpback whales, easily seen on day cruises.

Carlsbad Caverns National Park

NEW MEXICO

Thousands of bats roost in the caves, making spectacular exits at sunset.

Best Geology

YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK

Yellowstone is where Planet Earth shows off. The park’s geological features are particularly mesmerizing. Here, you’ll find an array of hydrothermal drama: hot springs, mudpots, fumaroles (steam vents), and, of course, 500-plus geysers—more than anywhere else in the world.

WHERE TO GO Old Faithful is the park’s celebrity attraction, but don’t ignore its neighbors in Upper Geyser Basin: Grand, Beehive, Castle, and more. A little to the north, Norris Geyser Basin is home to the tallest active geyser on earth, Steamboat, which can shoot scalding water more than 300 feet in the air. Other hydrothermal must-sees include the Mammoth Hot Springs, where water burbles gracefully over golden travertine terraces. Join one of the ranger-led hikes into park geyser basins and spend time with the exhibits at the Canyon Visitor Education Center.

INSIDER TIP When is Old Faithful next going to erupt? Download the NPS app, then navigate to “Yellowstone and Geyser Predictions” to find out.

EAT AND DRINK For the park’s nicest breakfast, lunch, or dinner, the Lake Yellowstone Hotel Dining Room serves high-quality food in a serene lakeside setting. The Old Faithful Inn’s Bear Paw Deli is a fine option for grab-andgo coffee and sandwiches.

More parks for geology

Point Reyes National Seashore CALIFORNIA

The park’s Earthquake Trail follows the infamous San Andreas Fault.

Lassen Volcanic National Park CALIFORNIA

The 3-mile Bumpass Hell Trail leads you through Lassen’s most picturesque hot springs and mud pots.

Best for Human History

MESA VERDE NATIONAL PARK

Constructed in the 12th century by the Ancestral Puebloans, the cliff dwellings of Colorado’s Mesa Verde National Park are engineering marvels: multi s tory sandstone and wood-beam structures built directly into the canyon walls. Mesa Verde’s ancient buildings make up the largest archeology preserve in the United States and are designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

WHERE TO GO Two of the most notable dwellings, Cliff Palace and Balcony House, can be visited only on ranger-led tours requiring advance tickets (available from recreation.gov ). They also require agility and nerve to climb steep ladders. Another option is driving the 6-mile Mesa Top Loop Road, where overlooks offer superb views of the cliff city.

INSIDER TIP The park concessionaire Aramark offers bus tours that include a visit to the Cliff Palace; book your seat at visitmesa verde.com

EAT AND DRINK The Far View Terrace Café’s Mesa Mocha Espresso Bar is great for pre-adventure lattes; the Metate Room Restaurant offers upscale Southwestern cuisine and prime views.

More parks for human history

Chaco Culture National Historical Park NEW MEXICO

Another spectacular example of Ancestral Puebloan city-building.

Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park ALASKA Skagway was the raucous gateway to the Klondike gold fields; tours, restored buildings, and exhibits celebrate the era.

Best Trees

SEQUOIA & KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS

Referring to Sequoiadendron giganteum , John Muir wrote, “The Big Tree is Nature’s forest masterpiece, and, so far as I know, the greatest of living things.” It’s hard to disagree. Strolling through a grove of giant sequoias can seem like a religious experience, with shafts of sunlight turning the trees’ bark a luminous red-orange. The largest trees in the world (some as tall as a 26-story building), giant sequoias grow only on the western slopes of California’s Sierra Nevada. And these giants get a magnificent showcase at California’s Sequoia and Kings Canyon.

WHERE TO GO

Begin your tree tour at Sequoia’s Giant Forest Museum. Charmingly rustic and filled with sequoia facts, it’s also the starting point for the short, paved trail to the General Sherman Tree, the largest specimen in the world. The nearby Congress Trail shows off even more of the mighty trees. In Kings Canyon, Grant Grove is home to the General Grant Tree, the world’s second-largest sequoia, which is reachable by a short, paved trail. Here, too, is the Centennial Stump, all that’s left of a giant sequoia felled in 1875—a reminder of the oncewidespread logging the parks were established to prevent.

INSIDER TIP Twisty but spectacular, the 50-mile Generals Highway is one of the most scenic drives in California. The journey will take much of your day (the speed limit slows to 10 mph in places), but if you’re a fan of beautiful views, it will reward you at every turn.

EAT AND DRINK

More parks for trees

Great Basin National Park NEVADA

The Great Basin Bristlecone Pines that grow high on 13,000-foot Wheeler Peak can live for more than 4,000 years.

Joshua Tree National Park CALIFORNIA

At home in the Mojave Desert, the park’s signature tree is both graceful and cartoonish.

The Peaks Restaurant, inside Wuksachi Lodge, serves excellent food in a stylish setting. Near Grant Grove, the patio at the Grant Grove Restaurant is a great place to hang out. ●

peter fish is a San Francisco-based writer and the former travel editor at Sunset magazine.

Red rocks on parade

Where in the West is this unusual sandstone formation?

Hint: The popular state park attraction and photo op is named for the animal it resembles. While its real-life namesake grows to 10 feet tall (on average), this stone behemoth—carved by wind and water over hundreds of millions of years—rises 32 feet above the desert. That environment can be scorching in summer, but this rock is easily accessible, located just inside the park’s east entrance and reachable by a flat, 1/3-mile trail.

← FIND THE ANSWER ON PAGE 6.

TEST YOUR TRAVEL KNOWLEDGE

Every Wednesday on Facebook and Instagram, our Where in the West series asks AAA Members to tell us the location of a breathtaking image. You can join in the fun at AAA.com/facebook and AAA.com/instagram.

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