As you cruise along Highway 12, you’ll roll right into the town of Bryce, sitting pretty at the entrance to the park. When you step foot in Bryce Canyon, prepare to be wowed. The four main viewpoints near the park entrance offer jaw-dropping panoramas that’ll make your heart skip a beat. The road leads you up to the plateau’s edge, treating you to sweeping vistas of the entire park. And trust me, time your arrival just right so you can catch either Sunrise Point or Sunset Point – watching the sun paint the landscape in hues of orange and gold is an absolute must.

While there’s an 18-mile scenic drive through the park, the real magic happens when you hit the trails on foot. Lace up those hiking boots and hit the easy 5.5-mile Rim Trail, stretching from Bryce Point to Fairyland Point. If you’re feeling up for a challenge, tackle the Peekaboo Loop trail, starting at Bryce Point and winding its way down to the canyon floor.

Now, when it comes to bedding down for the night, you’ve got options aplenty near the park. But heads up – these spots fill up fast, especially during peak season. Speaking of which, between March and October, Bryce Canyon gets pretty darn busy. To keep the traffic in check, the park service runs a free shuttle to the rim, so you can ditch the car and focus on soaking in all that natural beauty.

Venture 75 miles further west, and you’ll hit the granddaddy of all Utah national parks – Zion. This place is iconic, with its towering red cliffs earning it national park status back in 1919.

Once you roll into Zion, get ready for a feast for the eyes. The Zion Canyon scenic drive is your ticket to exploring the heart of the park, tracing the twists and turns of the Virgin River. And don’t miss the scenic State Road 9, which swoops in from the east and even takes you through the awe-inspiring Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel.

Now, let’s talk activities. Zion’s got something for everyone, whether you’re into horseback riding, rock climbing, or good old-fashioned hiking. But buckle up, because some of these trails are not for the faint of heart.

Take, for instance, the Angels Landing hike – dubbed one of the scariest in the world, and for good reason. This 5.4-mile trail will have your heart racing as you navigate steep, narrow ridges to reach the summit. With sheer drop-offs and dizzying heights, this one’s not for the acrophobic, that’s for sure.

If you’re up for a wetter adventure, the Virgin River Narrows trail is calling your name. This sixteen-mile trek requires you to roll up your pant legs and wade right through the river. Just make sure to snag those reservations well in advance – you can book ’em online through the park service website.

If you’re looking for a place to rest your head near Zion, Springdale’s your best bet. It’s the closest town and boasts a handful of hotels and restaurants to fuel your adventures. But hey, if the crowds have you seeking refuge further afield, St. George and Kanab are solid alternatives.

Now, here’s the deal: Zion gets busy, especially between March and October. Like, really busy. So if you want to snag a parking spot, you have to rise and shine – lots tend to fill up by 10 am. Pro tip: get there early and thank me later.

But fear not, weary traveler! Zion’s got your back with two free shuttle routes to whisk you around the park. No reservations needed, just get there early to beat the queues. One route kicks off in downtown Springdale, while the other zips around the park from the visitors center, hitting up all the must-see spots like Angel’s Landing and the Narrows.

And hey, if you find yourself stuck in a bit of traffic, take a deep breath and soak it all in. After all, you’re surrounded by some of the most jaw-dropping scenery on the planet – not a bad way to spend your day, huh?

The post Six Days in Utah – Zion and Bryce (Part 3) appeared first on Boomer Wanderer.

1. Visit the beach, a lake or a river
2. Explore a nearby city
3. Go to a nearby state or national park
4. Explore a small town or village
5. Take a short road trip
6. Take a hike
7. Go camping
8. Visit a local museum or art gallery
9. Find a new and unique restaurant
10. Go on a scavenger hunt in your hometown
11. Visit a historical site in your state

For anyone in or near Indiana, here are some of the places Dad and I explored.  

1. Corydon – Indiana’s first capital
2. Vincennes – Indiana’s first town
3. George Rogers Clark National Historic Site
4. Brown County State Park
5. Spring Mill State Park
6. Overlook Restaurant, Leavenworth
7. Huber’s Family Farm Restaurant, Borden
8. Anderson Falls, Columbus
9. Lake Monroe
10. Marengo Cave

The post Keep it Local appeared first on Boomer Wanderer.

1. Waze– Whether your trip involves a lot of road travel, or you just want to find a faster way to get to places in your own city, consider Waze. Recently purchased by Google, it uses social media input to give real-time updates on traffic situations. So, for example, if there’s a game downtown in the city you’re visiting, as you’re trying to navigate that same area to get to a restaurant, Waze will let you know where the jams are so you can avoid the tangle and the time (and fuel) wasted waiting for game-goers.

2. GasBuddy – When your RV has a 50-gallon tank and gets 8 miles to the gallon, finding the best gas price is really important. GasBuddy is another app that takes advantage of the constant updates and interaction of crowdsourcing. People input gas prices and keep an eye out for low prices, so users can quickly and easily search for gas stations nearby and compare prices to ensure the best deal in their area.

3. TripIt Travel planner – I have used TripIt for years. Reservations, tickets, events, meetings, personal gatherings with friends or family — you can basically have all the important details of your trip at your fingertips, all in one convenient place. You know all those confirmation emails that you get from hotels, airlines, car rental services, and the like — the ones you frantically search for in your Inbox the night before you leave on a vacation? Simply send all these emails along to plans@tripit.com, which will then magically generate a digital itinerary that you can refer to on your mobile device. It also provides weather info and maps of your destinations. You can add multiple trips to TripIt if you’re a frequent traveler, or just use it for a single vacation. TripIt has been awarded Best Travel Mobile App. All the services described above are free, or you can upgrade to a paid version for even more cushy service and alerts. I use the paid version to get travel alerts and flight updates, but the free version is very robust.

4. Around Me— Ever find yourself in an unfamiliar city, and you want a decent cup of coffee or a place to buy an extra toothbrush? This application tells you all the points of interest that are located near you. It detects your current location and lets you select from categories like bars, cafés, hospitals, pharmacies, and hotels to filter the results. It even provides reviews and directions.

5. Road Trippers — This is a fun travel tool made for the iPhone as an app, but it is also available via mobile web so you can use it with Android, Blackberry, and other smartphone platforms. Here’s how it works: you type in your starting and destination points and it tells you the distance, time, and estimated gas costs. This is great for day trips — think of a great tour of Napa while staying in San Francisco (or vice versa!). While the distance-finding feature in itself isn’t necessarily groundbreaking, RoadTrippers goes one better and tells you about all of the attractions worth seeing along the way, from the obvious to the wonderfully ridiculous.

There are tons of apps to explore, of course, and this is just a glimpse — but these should add some fun and help you plan and save a few dollars. Once we’ve worked together to plan your next road trip, give these apps a try and let me know how it goes!

The post My Favorite Road Trip Apps appeared first on Boomer Wanderer.

We set off from Indiana, hopping on a train headed straight for the Grand Canyon. Amtrak will take you to Flagstaff but from there you will need a car or to book a tour to get to the Grand Canyon. We were originally going to stay in an AirBnb near Williams, but on a whim, I called the park and we snagged a last-minute spot at the Yavapai Lodge right in the heart of the park. Basic digs, but it had all the essentials and was a stone’s throw from the Visitors Center, plus some neat little shops and eateries. Oh, and it was a short stroll away from Mather Point, one of those jaw-dropping overlooks at the South Rim.

Now, the Grand Canyon? It’s not just a pretty face, my friend. This place is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and for good reason. They say the Colorado River started carving this wonder out over five million years ago, laying bare nearly two billion years of Earth’s geological story.

Picture this: 277 miles long, 18 miles wide, and in some spots, a mile deep! It’s mind-boggling, really.

Now, let’s break it down a bit. The Grand Canyon has three main sections: North Rim, South Rim, and Grand Canyon West. North and South Rim? That’s where you’ll find the national park, while Grand Canyon West sits on Native American reservation land.

Alright, let’s talk South Rim. It’s like the poster child for the park, always buzzing with visitors. Summers get packed, so consider swinging by during quieter times. Oh, and trust me, whether you’re up at the crack of dawn or not, catching a sunrise here? Pure magic. Plus, you’ll dodge some of the crowds at the viewpoints.

Since way back in 1901, the Grand Canyon Railway’s been chugging folks from Williams, AZ, straight to the South Rim. In summer, there’s even a shuttle service from the Visitors Center.

Now, if you’re feeling a bit adventurous, there’s mule rides down to the canyon floor or rafting trips along the Colorado River. And don’t even get me started on the hiking and biking trails!

Oh, and when it comes to staying, there are historic lodges in the park itself or plenty of hotels and campgrounds in Williams and Tusayan that make exploring the South Rim a breeze.

Alright, onto the North Rim. It’s only open from May to October, so plan accordingly. But trust me, it’s worth it. There’s just one campground and the Grand Canyon Lodge up there, but the views? Unreal. Take a spin along the North Rim Scenic Drive for some epic vistas.

And finally, Grand Canyon West. It’s a hop, skip, and a jump from Las Vegas and boy, does it deliver on the views. Plus, there’s the Skywalk, this glass bridge that’ll make your heart skip a beat. Guano Point’s another highlight, offering killer views and a peek into history with remnants of an old tram and a guano mine.

Eagle Point has Native American village tours, giving you a taste of the area’s rich heritage. And if you’re craving that Wild West vibe, swing by Hualapai Ranch for some cowboy-style fun.

Whatever season you come and whatever side you choose to visit, you won’t be disappointed.

The post Bucket List Destination – The Grand Canyon appeared first on Boomer Wanderer.

So, the Big Five Utah National Parks? They’re the cream of the crop in the US, no contest. My dad and I just returned from hitting four of them, plus we cruised down this highway that’s basically a feast for the eyes. In the next couple of posts, I’m going to share pictures and highlights from our adventure.

We had a tight schedule, only 6 days, and my travel buddies were elderly, so we kept the walking to a minimum and stuck to drives. We started our journey in Moab, the hub for Canyonlands National Park, Arches National Park, and Dead Horse Point State Park. Moab’s the holy grail for mountain biking, and you can rent bikes all over the place. These parks are so close, you can totally check ’em out in a day, or take your sweet time and really dig deep.

Now, more folks might flock to Arches, but personally, Canyonlands stole my heart. On the way there, don’t skip out on Dead Horse Point State Park. It’s got awesome camping spots, killer trails, and views that’ll make your jaw drop. And trust me, sunsets and sunrises there? Epic.

The snow-capped La Sal mountains behind those red rock canyons in Canyonlands? It’s like a painting. The park’s split into four parts, but I’m not much of a hiker, so I stick to the Island in the Sky drive. Needles is cool too, but a bit of a trek from Moab. Didn’t have time for that on this trip. The other bits? You need a 4WD or a boat to get to them.

After our morning in Canyonlands, we made our way to Arches for our afternoon slot. If you’re planning a trip between April and October, you need a timed reservation. They’re trying to limit the crowds, which I totally respect. But even with a reservation, expect a bit of a wait, but trust me, it’s totally worth it.

Arches is another spot you can enjoy from the comfort of your car. As you drive up, those red rock formations start popping up, and you’ll understand why they named it Arches. The drive isn’t a loop, so remember to backtrack when you’re done. There’s three main spots: The Windows, Wolfe Ranch/Delicate Arch, and Devil’s Garden. The Windows drive takes you past a bunch of cool arches, and there are short walks to get you up close. Wolfe Ranch gives you a peek into life in this wild but beautiful area, and Delicate Arch? It’s Utah’s crown jewel. It’s on their license plates and stamps, You can see it from below or hike the 3-mile trail to stand right under it. Devil’s Garden? Home to Landscape Arch, the longest natural arch span in North America.

Oh, and if you’re there in the afternoon, do yourself a favor and stick around for sunset. Those red rocks light up like they’re on fire.

Next week? We’re off to Capitol Reef, one of the hidden gems of the park scene. Can’t wait to share more with you all!

The post Six Days in Utah – Arches and Canyonlands (Part 1) appeared first on Boomer Wanderer.

Capitol Reef is a geological masterpiece shaped by the 100-mile Waterpocket Fold, boasting winding canyons, monoliths, and domes. The Fremont River meanders through, creating a lush valley inhabited since ancient times, adorned with Native American petroglyphs. The historic town of Fruita, aptly named for its fruit trees planted by Mormon settlers, offers a unique experience – visitors can pick fresh fruit in the fall! With plenty of hiking trails and scenic drives, you’ll be treated to breathtaking arches and formations.

Now, let’s talk about the journey to get there. If you’re coming from the east on Highway 24, continue to Torrey, then head south onto Highway 12 – an All American Road known as the “Journey Through Time Scenic Byway.” This 122-mile road is a visual feast, climbing through Dixie National Forest to heights of over 9500 feet. Prepare to be amazed as forests transition to red rocks, and then to the vast wilderness of Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument.

The drive is an adventure in itself, with ever-changing landscapes and heart-stopping views along narrow ridges. The Grand Staircase, a sprawling wilderness of slot canyons and natural wonders, stretches over almost 2 million acres and encompasses diverse ecosystems. As you wind through the wilderness, keep an eye out for Red Canyon with its striking arches, before eventually reaching the end of the scenic road at Bryce Canyon.

Highway 12 may not be the quickest route between Capitol Reef and Bryce but trust me, it’s worth every mile for its jaw-dropping scenery and unforgettable vistas. So, who’s up for an epic road trip?

The post Six Days in Utah – Capitol Reef to Bryce Canyon on Utah Highway 12 (Part 2) appeared first on Boomer Wanderer.

Working with Amtrak, we crafted our itinerary, but we did need to rent a car for part of the journey to explore the parks and get to the Grand Canyon. While the Grand Canyon Railway from Williams, AZ, sounded cool, our rental car gave us more flexibility to soak up the sights.

Now, onto the train itself! We hopped on the California Zephyr, winding from Chicago to San Francisco, with epic stops along the way. The Colorado stretch stole the show, climbing through the Rockies, and hitting an altitude of 9600 feet. Sure, the air was a bit thin, but nothing Dad and his buddy couldn’t handle. Plus, the views? Mind-blowing! Tunnels, twists, turns – it was like nothing else.

We snagged roomettes for a cozy ride, perfect for the three of us. During the day, they doubled as comfy seating with a tiny table for snacks or work. Space was tight, but they made the most of it with hooks, cubbies, and plugs. No Wi-Fi in the rooms, but hey, who needs it when you’ve got jaw-dropping scenery?

Food-wise, we lucked out with free eats in the dining car. Our steward was a gem, making sure we were well-fed and comfy. Dad struggled with the moving train, so she kindly brought our meals to us – talk about service!

The communal dining setup was a neat touch, letting us mingle with fellow travelers. Menu options were solid, and the food hit the spot. And let’s not forget the observation car – primo seats for soaking in those stunning vistas.

Now, about luggage – way more relaxed than a plane. We checked two bags, carried on two more, plus a personal item. Easy peasy!

Dad needed wheelchairs at stations, which were a breeze to arrange, and while there are accessible rooms on the train, they keep them open for those who truly need them.

Overall, the train ride was a blast. If you’re not in a rush, it’s a super chill way to travel. So, who’s ready to hop aboard?

The post A ride on Amtrak’s California Zephyr appeared first on Boomer Wanderer.

1. Keep your peeps in the loop: Make sure someone back home knows your plans and check in regularly.
2. Get your phone game on: Make sure your phone works internationally and keep in touch via text. It’s a lifesaver.
3. Stay informed: Check travel alerts before you jet off and research your destination.
4. Stay aware: Keep your senses sharp and ditch the headphones. Also, don’t get too wrapped up in your camera.
5. Keep your stuff safe: Keep important stuff like passports tucked away, and stash some extra cash in sneaky spots.
6. Respect local customs: Blend in and dress appropriately. It’s all about showing respect and staying safe.
7. Stick to the beaten path: Stay smart about wandering off after dark, and don’t advertise that you’re a tourist.
8. Know your embassy: Keep tabs on where it is, just in case.
9. Stay sharp: Keep your wits about you, especially when you’re out and about.
10. Guard your info: Keep hotel details to yourself, and be cautious about sharing personal info.
11. Be picky about your digs: Choose a safe, central hotel, and keep security in mind.
12. Cover your bases: Get travel insurance for medical emergencies.
13. Ditch the bling: Leave the flashy stuff at home and keep your valuables close.
14. Trust your gut: Your instincts are usually spot on, so listen up!

Remember, don’t let fear hold you back. With a bit of street smarts and some solid planning, you’ll be good to go. Happy travels!

The post Traveling Solo? Here’s some tips to stay safe. appeared first on Boomer Wanderer.

Feeling a bit jittery about hitting the road? Don’t sweat it! I’ve got your back to ensure your journey is not just awesome, but also safe and accessible. Exploring new spots is a blast, and being prepared? Well, that’s half the adventure, right? So, here are some nifty tips to help you pick your perfect accessible getaway.

Let’s start with air travel. Did you know certain planes, like the Airbus A350 or Boeing 747, come equipped with accessible bathrooms? Cool, huh? Plus, you can rent or bring your own mobility aids – just slap a GPS tag on ’em for safekeeping. Want to board early to avoid the crowd? No problemo! And if you need a wheelchair onboard, the airline’s got your back.

Now, onto land adventures. Vacation rentals are a solid bet, especially if you have specific needs like allergies. Ping the owner, double-check the cleaning stuff, and voilà! Kitchen facilities are a bonus, too, keeping cross-contamination worries at bay.

Looking to soak up some culture? Many museums, parks, and historical sites offer freebies for the disability community. And hey, there are even scholarships up for grabs to fuel your wanderlust. Who doesn’t love freebies, right?

Ahoy, sea lovers! Cruise ships are the new cool. With lowered desks, automatic doors, and even pool lifts, they’ve got accessibility down pat. Plus, many ports of call are stepping up their game for wheelchair users.

For those craving a laid-back beach vibe, all-inclusive resorts are where it’s at. Smooth walkways, ocean lifts, and shaded spots for sun-sensitive folks – they’ve got it all sorted. Just remember your SPF and electrolytes!

So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags – and yes, that includes your Foley and colostomy bags! – because the world’s calling. Travel isn’t just for some, it’s for everyone.

The post Accessible Travel Tips appeared first on Boomer Wanderer.