Amy C. Balfour

1 month ago | lonelyplanet.com | Amy C. Balfour

Picture it now. You’re standing atop Ooh Ahh Point, soaking up magnificent views of the Grand Canyon. Blue skies. Light breeze. Life is good. But one negative thought interrupts the vibe: your choice of flip-flops might have been a bad idea. Yep, that climb to the South Rim – steep and twisty with the possibility of mule poop – is going to be uncomfortable if you’re wearing wimpy footwear. A little preparation can improve your trip.

2 months ago | lonelyplanet.com | Amy C. Balfour

You can’t ignore Haleakalā. Rising 10,023ft and often shrouded in clouds, this dormant volcano dominates the entire eastern horizon of Maui. Capped by a crater that covers more ground than Manhattan, the summit is a visual feast and the centerpiece of Haleakalā National Park. Ancient Hawaiians worshipped near the cinder cones that dot the crater floor, and many Native Hawaiians today retain a spiritual connection to the summit.

2 months ago | lonelyplanet.com | Amy C. Balfour

From visas to planning advice to etiquette, safety and more, here are some essential things to know before you set off for the United States.

Jan 30, 2025 | lonelyplanet.com | Amy C. Balfour

Everything is bigger in Texas, but the state's two national parks are true giants. Big Bend National Park in West Texas covers a staggering 1252 square miles of the Chisos Mountain range and the Rio Grande basin. Meanwhile, the state’s highest peaks and colorful fall foliage lure hikers to 135-sq-mile Guadalupe Mountains National Park. While Big Bend and Guadalupe Mountains are Texas's only national parks, Texas also enjoys other National Park Service sites and state parks.

Sep 11, 2024 | lonelyplanet.com | Amy C. Balfour

The best things to do in West Virginia range from outdoor adventures in New River Gorge National Park to day trips in small towns. Discover it all here.