Why Hiking Is Becoming So Popular
Everyone is hiking these days. Especially on long-distance trails. Hiking is surging in popularity not only across the U.S., but all around the world. Experts aren’t positive why this is happening, but believe one reason is the popularity of the book “Wild” by Cheryl Strayed.
Exploring the Ice Caves at Kickapoo Valley Reserve
Ice caves abound every winter in Wisconsin's 8,600-acre Kickapoo Valley Reserve. That's because the reserve has an abundance of groundwater. It's also scarred with steep stream valleys, sandstone and limestone cliffs, and overhangs. Together, that's perfect for the...
Five Places Most Tourists Miss in Washington, D.C.
Many people know what they want to see when visiting Washington, D.C. It's classic sites such as the Washington Monument, Congress and the Smithsonian museums. But there are many other really cool, but lesser-known, attractions. Here are five. Let's see if you've...
How to Hike Through Mt. Grace State Forest
Fifty shades of green burst forth before my eyes as I emerge on the top of the 68-foot fire tower capping Mt. Grace. My metal aerie affords me sweeping views of the vast, remote countryside, which today is bathed in bright emerald, lime and mossy hues. A sea of...
What You Need to Know About the Expansion at Sundara Inn & Spa
Sundara is one of America's top destination spas. It's in the Wisconsin Dells area. Sundara's recent renovation and expansion added new suites, a saltwater pool and loads of wellness activities.Photos courtesy of Sundara Inn & Spa
Door County’s Sturgeon Bay Worth a Stop
Door County is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Wisconsin and beyond. But visitors tend to ignore Sturgeon Bay, the peninsular county's gateway city. That's a mistake. For Sturgeon Bay, which straddles the peninsula's canal, is in the midst of a...
What You Need to Know About Hiking Iceland’s Laugavegur Trail
Iceland's Laugavegur Trail is famed for leading hikers past lava fields and across glaciers. The route also showcases natural hot springs, black arctic deserts and lush valleys. The trail is considered one of the world's most beautiful hikes.
How to Hike the Ice Age Trail’s Harrison Hills Segment
How to Hike the Ice Age Trail's Harrison Hills Segment When the world's last ice sheet melted away 10,000+ years ago, it left behind many calling cards. Top among them are the deep kettles and soaring hummocks I'm puffing up and down here in Harrison Hills. I pause to...
Superior Hiking Trail Series – Part 6: Protect and Serve
I'm so grateful to have paths like the Superior Hiking Trail. But if our wonderful trails are to remain, we all have to pitch in. There are many ways to help, from using our trails, to helping maintain them, to donating money.
Superior Hiking Trail Series – Part 5: Nature Effect
You've probably heard that being out in nature is supposed to be good for the body and soul. I'm here to tell you that is absolutely true. Although this trail was hard, it gave back plenty of healing moments.
Superior Hiking Trail Series – Part 4: Suffering and Joy
When you embark upon a long-distance trek along a path like the Superior Hiking Trail, something is likely to go wrong every day. (At least for me!) Usually it's little things, but sometimes you can face rather significant obstacles. Still, the joy of the experience...
Superior Hiking Trail Series – Part 3: People of the Trail
Hiking appeals to a wide variety of people. It's always fun to meet others and discover what draws them to the trail.
Superior Hiking Trail Series – Part 2: Hiking Boom
The Superior Hiking Trail was far from overrun with hikers during my adventure. Still, there was plenty of foot traffic on the trail. That mirrors the hiking boom occurring across the nation.
Superior Hiking Trail Series – Part 1: Water Everywhere
My hike began in a hard, cold rain. Coupled with the spring snow melt, that meant lots of mud and water. I viewed it as my baptism on the trail.
What You Need to Know About the Scariest Waterslides in Wisconsin Dells
Wisconsin Dells is the waterpark capital of the world. I happen to live nearby, so I went there to check out its most frightening waterslides. Then I rated them myself. See what I came up with. Photos courtesy of Chula Vista Resort
Warrior Expeditions Helps Vets
Hiking is so good for your mind and body, veterans with PTSD are now "walking off the war" by hitting some of our best long-distance trails. Warrior Expeditions is the nonprofit making it happen. Through the program, vets can also cycle across the U.S. or paddle down...
