If you’re looking to explore a bit more of this beautiful country but would like to do so without putting a strain on your wallet, we have some great news. All of the U.S. national parks will be free to enter on September 23, 2023! In honor of National Public Lands Day 2023, the National Park Service has announced that all admission fees will be waived for visitors on September 23, 2023. More than 400 parks and national park units will be taking part in this nationwide event, so there’s bound to be one near you. Popular spots such as Acadia, Rocky Mountain, Shenandoah, Yosemite, Joshua Tree, Everglades, and Great Smoky Mountains National Parks are all included!
This month's free admission day honors National Public Lands Day, which was established in 1994 and is held annually on the fourth Saturday in September. The purpose of National Public Lands Day is to celebrate the connection that people feel with green spaces and to foster that relationship. It has also come to be one of the biggest single-day volunteer efforts of the year, as folks get out and help to improve our public green spaces each year on National Public Lands Day.Although millions of people visit national park units on an annual basis, many more do not have the opportunity to do so. Free admission days, like National Public Lands Day 2023, offer the opportunity to get out and visit our incredible public lands in the United States. One of the most accessible parks - and, thus, most visited - is the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia and North Carolina. It connects Shenandoah National Park in the north to Great Smoky Mountains National Park in the south, while traversing more than 400 miles of the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains in between.In Great Smoky Mountains National Park, you'll be treated to incredible views, such as those from Clingman's Dome - the highest point in the park.
Though admission fees will be waived on September 23, the cost of other park activities like camping, rentals, transport, and certain tours will still apply.
If you're not near a national park, you can also visit any site managed by the National Park Service for free on National Public Lands Day 2023. This includes national monuments such as Devil's Tower in Wyoming.
It also includes
national lakeshores, such as Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, national scenic riverways, and national preserves, as well as national historic parks and sites.
You should be prepared to deal with increased traffic both on the roads around the parks and within the parks themselves, as plenty of people will want to take advantage of this epic deal. If you're unable to visit today, the next free admission day will be on Veterans Day, November 11.
Lace up your hiking boots and get ready to explore!
Can't decide which National Park to visit that weekend? Here are a few favorites that we've featured in the past:
In the Midwest, you'll find Voyageurs National Park in Minnesota, Isle Royale National Park in Michigan, and Gateway Arch National Park in Missouri. There are also several fascinating national monuments in the region, like Effigy Mounds in Iowa, as well as Pipestone and Grand Portage National Monuments in Minnesota. Michigan and Wisconsin are also home to stunning national lakeshores, such as Apostle Islands, Sleeping Bear Dunes, and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshores.
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
Many people revel in the summer heat as a respite from cold winters. Yet, sometimes the heat can get to be a bit much and you might want a brief visit to winter in places where you can beat the heat. There are several places in the United States where snow remains through most if not all of the summer! If you’d like to get some summer skiing in or simply enjoy the chill before you head back to warmer climates, check out these 10 incredible spots where you can still find snow in summer.
North Cascades National Park in Washington has such a gorgeous landscape all through the year. Below the 4800-foot elevation, you’re surrounded by lush green forests and pristine blue lakes. Above that, you’ll start reaching the snowpack, and further up there’s continuous snow. It’s a good idea to have sturdy boots, hiking poles, a traction device, and an ice axe. if you want to climb past 5,000 feet. It seems to be a place where winter never leaves.
While this may not be naturally occurring snow, you can ski year-round at Big SNOW American Dream in New Jersey. You can even take beginner lessons to get you ready for the real deal. The eastern states may not keep much snow around, but there are more indoor snow facilities in the works like Fairfax Peak in Virginia. Bearfire Resort in Texas appears to be on hold, however, Pigeonforge Snow in Tennessee is up and running!
If you’re looking for some summer skiing, Beartooth Basin in Wyoming is the perfect place. Depending on the previous winter’s snowfall, this beautiful basin often has snow up until July with nine ski trails, some with big air and rail features. Hill space is available for rental for ski racing and mogul training as well as freestyle camps. The 600-acre area has a couple of steeper slopes with a 50-degree gradient. Now that’s fun!
There are tall peaks within the lush Inyo National Forest that have snow throughout the year and locals love to come here for summer skiing and ice climbing. Others love to camp and hike below the snow level to simply take in the breathtaking views. Imagine kicking back with a fishing rod and looking up at these majestic California mountains!
You’ll find the Arapahoe Basin in Summit County, Colorado. As the Arapahoe Basin Resort says, “We are now open for not winter!” You’ll find year-round skiing here with challenging terrain, friendly service, ski and snowboard rentals, and excellent instructors. If you’ve missed the snow and want some time on the slopes, this is where to go. If skiing isn’t your thing, there are also wildflower hikes, Mountaintop Yoga, bike trails, and more.
This national forest is one of the very few places in New England where you can still see snow in the summer. The Tuckerman Ravine is the spot for snow and sometimes it’s even good enough for skiing. It’s comprised of a glacial cirque and it’s often good for skiing up into July! It’s known as a rugged and challenging area, but if you can make the trek, you’re in for a sunny snowy adventure!
It’s no surprise that Alaska might still have some snow hanging around during the summer. One of the top places to go is the Alyeska Resort where you can take tram rides, hiking and biking trails, and eat at delicious restaurants with lovely views of the surrounding snowcapped peaks. The idyllic beauty of this area may make you think you’ve been transported to Switzerland. There’s a lot going on here all year long, so get up here!
Mount Hood is a true gem in Oregon. You can see the snowy peak from many miles away and it’s always such a spectacular sight. While the Mt. Hood Ski Bowl is the ultimate winter skiing and snowboarding place in Oregon, during the summer it has tons of activities like scenic airlift rides, tubing hills, mini golf, pedal karts, climbing walls, and more than enough other activities to easily fill a weekend. All of it within view of that beautiful snowy mountaintop.
It figures that a state named after mountains would have a few that still wear their snowy caps into the summer. The aptly named Big Snowy Mountains may not have summer ski slopes, but there’s still enough to appreciate and enjoy the beauty of. If you’re in for a real adventure, you can take a strenuous 23.5-mile hike to the Ice Caves which are filled with ice all year. The highest peak reaches 8,681 feet and snow can last into June.
This is more of an honorable mention as the snow is synthetic. Liberty Mountain uses a substance called Snowflex which emulates the texture of real snow. You can ski and snowboard throughout the year here and the surface is slick enough to ski on yet soft enough to break your fall. Tubing is available as well as Olympic trampolines and 3,500 acres of hiking trails. If you’re just too far from actual snow, this is certainly the next best thing.
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Have you ever been summer skiing, snowboarding, or simply admiring the views at any of these fantastic locations where you can still find snow in summer? What’s your favorite place in the nation for summertime snow? Let us know about your experiences and favorites in the comments. If you like snow tubing but can’t get near a peak, try a bit of river tubing at these iconic spots:
