Locals Know Best

Join Paul and me as we spend an epic day whitewater rafting, biking, and hiking all around Fort Collins. Then we finish off our day soaking up what's left of the sun on some fantastic patios while enjoying some of the best beers in the states!

Paul is the CMO of RunRepeat, the largest athletic footwear review site on the web. Check out RunRepeat or Check out the NoCO Trail Conditions Facebook Group.

Paul is an outdoor fanatic who loves adventure. Over the past 20 years, he has climbed, hiked, and run all over the world.

Some of his most adventurous feats include summiting peaks throughout the Americas, trekking throughout Africa, running 6 marathons, and giving his endurance the ultimate test in a 24-hour trail race.

He has worked in the outdoor industry for about 15 years, in a wide range of jobs, including being a whitewater and hunting guide, gear tester, and copywriter. And for places such as The National Outdoor Leadership School, No Barriers USA, and the Sierra Trading Post.

These days Paul serves as the Chief Marketing Officer at RunRepeat, the largest athletic footwear review site on the web.

What We Cover in This Episode

• What it's like to be a raft guide in Fort Collins, Colorado.
• Why Fort Collins is a great town for both trail and road runners.
• What makes Fort Collins perfect for adventurers.
• The best time of year to visit Fort Collins, Colorado.
• The best seasons for each outdoor activity, including biking, rafting, kayaking, backpacking, camping, climbing, hiking, and boating.
• The two best places to stay in Fort Collins, Colorado.
• A part of Fort Collins with a Disney claim to fame.
• The best diner in Fort Collins with world-famous cinnamon rolls.
• The best time of year (and time of day) for whitewater rafting in Fort Collins.
• A nearby small town with stunning mountain biking.
• The two best hikes in Fort Collins, Colorado.
• A tip for a less crowded way to hike to the top of Horsetooth Rock.
• Why Fort Collins is built for biking.
• A unique local state park.
• The best breweries, dinner spots with patios, and nightlife spots in Fort Collins, Colorado.
• The two best destinations for Instagram photos.
• One popular local destination you should avoid if crowded, and where you should go instead.

Quotables

"Well, there's a lot of things Fort Collins has going for itself. First off, it's a really cool hip little town. The university here is 25 – 30,000 students. So there's this fun nightlife vibe going on that bigger college towns have. We have really good weather here. The weather in Fort Collins is just fantastic all year round. Even now, it's January, it's in the fifties, sunny, and in the fifties. And so you can run, you can mountain bike, you can climb mostly year-round. If you're into golf, you can golf year-round. There's a lot of outdoor activities that you can do throughout the year that you can't do in a lot of other mountain west locations. And then on top of that, it's just really close to a lot of really great things. We're about an hour north of Denver. So the Denver crowds tend to stay away from Northern Colorado. And so we kind of have our forests and our trails and our mountains to ourselves up here. And within an hour of town, you can be back-country skiing. You can be whitewater rafting, mountain biking, backpacking, rock climbing. I mean, There's so much stuff to do right in town, but also within an hour that a lot of the crowds just kind of stay away from, which makes this place a real gem"

"In Fort Collins, you can go out on a Saturday afternoon for a mountain bike ride on one of our local, popular trails and maybe pass ten to fifteen other people. Whereas in Denver, you might pass a thousand people on the local mountain bike trails. So, you know, although there are people out recreating, it is not the crowds like you see down south of here which is really, really special, I think for the people that live here"

"I think there's 220 miles of bike path and bike lane and Fort Collins. So, basically, every street has a bike lane that's like three or four feet wide. But there's also a lot of dedicated bike paths that go through the parks, go down along the railways, that are off the streets and totally bike-friendly… Everyone rides their bikes everywhere because it's so easy"

"So the big adventure that you got to do after you've played outside in Fort Collins is head back into town, clean up, and get on some bikes … and you head into town, and we've got, I think we've got 30 or 40 breweries in town … you can ride your bike from brewery to brewery, to distillery, to dispensary, if that's your thing. So there's all sorts of fun things to do on bikes. Fort Collins is very patio oriented in the summer. Everyone is sitting outside. Everyone is enjoying the sunshine. And enjoying a good beer after a long day on the mountains"

"What's cool about Fort Collins is there's enough different breweries that you can find very different styles of beer. So if you like German-style beer versus Belgian-style, beer versus American-style, or whatever your poison is, you can find it here in Fort Collins"

"Yeah, you know, the rain doesn't really stop people here. If you want to get on your bike and riding the rain, it's actually a really fun experience. So what if you get wet? It's going to stop raining. That's the good thing about Colorado. You know, if you get stuck in a rainstorm, it's only gonna last a little while, and then you'll dry out at the next brewery. My theory is, that's the time to be out there. It's fun to be out in the rain"

"I mean, in any given day, basically winter or summer, you can trail run, you can mountain bike, you can hike, you can rock climb, you can golf, you can hunt, you can fish, you can raft, and you can kayak. I mean, there's a lot of opportunity here if you're a thrill-seeker or you love the outdoors. It's got a little bit of everything. And we're just far enough away from the big city that it's not overrun yet. Also, the downtown area's got great nightlife, and I think that that's something that maybe falls away in some of the mountain towns. And we're not in the mountains, but we're tucked right up against them. And so, you know, there's a lot to do here. I'm sure one day it will be crowded, but for the last 20 years, I've been pleasantly surprised at the amount of people I see doing the things I love to do as well"

Links to Places Mentioned in this Episode Where to Stay in Fort Collins, Colorado:

• The Armstrong Hotel
• The Elizabeth Hotel

Fort Collins, Colorado Outdoor Activities Mentioned in this Episode:

• Old Town
• Rustic, CO
• Lower Dadd Gulch Trail
• Lory State Park
• Arthur's Rock Trail
• Horsetooth Reservoir
• Horsetooth Rock Trail
• Rotary Park

Fort Collins, Colorado area Restaurants Mentioned in this Episode:

• Silver Grill Cafe
• New Belgium Brewing
• Odell Brewing
• Snowbank Brewing
• Feisty Spirits Distillery
• The Reserve by Old Elk Distillery
• Illegal Pete's
• RARE Italian
• Rio Grande
• Trail Head Tavern
• Town Pump
• Aggie Theatre

Thanks for Listening!

We love our listeners! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave me a comment below and let me know about your favorite part!

If you've been enjoying the show, please also consider leaving me a review in Apple Podcasts. It's super easy; click here and go to "ratings and reviews." I read and appreciate every single one! Each review helps new listeners find the podcast. Thank you!!

Follow Cinders Travels on Facebook or Instagram for Locals Know Best updates.

In this episode, I'll be speaking with Sara McDaniel of Simply Southern Cottage about Minden, Louisiana.

Join Sara and me as we spend a day paddling, hiking, biking, and enjoying all of the local cuisine surrounding "The Friendliest City in the South"!

About Sara McDaniel

Sara is an adventurer and entrepreneur who loves where she lives.

At 41 years old, she retired from a successful sales career to explore entrepreneurial interests, including real estate investing, educational consulting, and social media influencing.

While pursuing those interests, she has reclaimed and restored her home and her life.

Now she says it's her mission to provide inspiration to help others do the same.

Sara's now quite famous home has been featured in Better Homes and Gardens, Cottages and Bungalows, Southern Lady, Apartment Therapy, HGTV, Southern Hospitality, and Martha Stewart, just to name a few!

What We Cover in This Episode

• A unique fact that makes Louisiana different than every other state in the United States.
• What would draw an outdoorsy person to visit Minden.
• Minden's claim to fame and most favored outdoor activity.
• The best time of year to visit Minden, Louisiana.
• The best place to stay in Minden, Louisiana.
• The best spot for coffee and New Orleans-style beignets in Minden, Louisiana.
• The best bayous and lakes for a paddle.
• What to do if you see an alligator in the bayou.
• Learn about an outfitter business opportunity in the Minden area.
• Whether inflatable kayaks and alligator waters mix.
• A spot where you can find an old 19th-century shipwreck.
• The best lunch and dinner spots in Minden, Louisiana.
• A place where you can order a taco in an avocado.
• The best local state parks for camping, hiking, biking, paddling, fishing, picnicking, and swimming.
• A spot where you can see how local pioneers lived in the 19th century.
• The most beautiful destination for Instagram photos.
• A Louisiana film history trail.

Quotables

"I know it's cliche, but I do love where I live... so I love, love, love to celebrate our state."

"[Minden] is just the cutest, quaintest little Southern community. And in fact, a few years ago, we were named the friendliest city in the South. So I love the people here. We have tons of amazing historic homes and architecture, cute little shops, and boutiques. And then we also have lots of amazing outdoor activities that people can participate in."

"Honestly, [in Minden], we have it all. We have historic homes, we have our historic downtown, we have the great outdoors, and I'm telling you, our people here are so friendly and so amazing. And I promise you will not be disappointed."

Links to Places Mentioned in this Episode Where to Stay in Minden, Louisiana:

• Pearl Street Studios

Minden, Louisiana Outdoor Activities Mentioned in this Episode:

• Bayou Dorcheat
• Caney Lakes Recreation Area
• Lake Bistineau State Park
• Germantown Colony Museum
• Minden's Historic Residential District
• Academy Park

Minden, Louisiana area Restaurants Mentioned in this Episode:

• The Broken Bean
• Geaux Fresh
• Habacu's

Thanks for Listening!

We love our listeners! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave me a comment below and let me know about your favorite part!

If you've been enjoying the show, please also consider leaving me a review in Apple Podcasts. It's super easy; click here and go to "ratings and reviews." I read and appreciate every single one! Each review helps new listeners find the podcast. Thank you!!

Follow Cinders Travels on Facebook or Instagram for Locals Know Best updates.

In this episode, I'll be speaking with Brittney of Brit Nicole Photography about all of the fun adventures that are possible within Palo Duro Canyon and the surrounding areas.

Join Brittney and me as we walk through her version of an ultimate elopement adventure, including hiking, jeeping, horseback riding, ziplining, boating, and more!

About Brittney & Brit Nicole Photography

Brittney's wedding and elopement photography company hosts a team of photographers who cater to adventurous brides and grooms throughout Texas and beyond.

Her company has been published over 200 times, been seen on The Ellen Show, and has been featured in Huffington Post, PopSugar, and Parents magazine.

They are currently celebrating their 15th anniversary and have also been inducted into The Knots Hall of Fame of the top 5% best wedding photographers in the nation.

One last thing you need to know about Brittney, she personally prides herself on being a sarcastic connoisseur, proclaiming - if you can't laugh, we won't get along.

What We Cover in This Episode

• What each season at Palo Duro Canyon has to offer, and why there's no bad time to visit.
• What sets a Texas summer sunset apart from other sunsets.
• The best time of year for hiking in Palo Duro Canyon.
• The best places to stay near Palo Duro Canyon.
• The best (and most deadly) trail in Palo Duro Canyon.
• Why Palo Duro Canyon is a great spot for night sky pictures.
• A wild Palo Duro Canyon bigfoot-esqe story - rock or bear?
• The best meal option that will come to you in the canyon.
• The best lunch and dinner spots in the surrounding areas.
• A popular dinner spot where you can order rattlesnake and a free 72 oz steak!
• Six different adventures you can enjoy in Palo Duro Canyon, including ziplining, jeeping, horseback riding, boating, and more!
• The best trails in Palo Duro Canyon for pictures.
• How to find caves in Palo Duro Canyon.
• One local tourist destination that's worth skipping.

Quotables

"One of my most favorite things about the canyon, I call these my come to Jesus moments, is whenever you go out there before the sun rises, I have my one special spot that I have found, where you can just sit on a rock that's just basically a cliff just falling right down, and you can just look in the valley. And once that sun comes up, it just hits the fog just right from all of the cliffs cascading, and it just illuminated the whole entire floor. ... It's the most magnificent feeling I have ever had."

"The sunsets, oh gosh, yeah, okay, ... so if you're sitting on the rim of Palo Duro Canyon, it's just light and colors just vomiting all over the floor. There's nothing to block it. You see it in all of its glory, and you just see the clouds changing from pink to purple to orange. It's just; it's beautiful."

"If you travel that far and you don't at least come out to see the Milky Way, what are you even doing? You need to go see the Milky Way. It is amazing!"

"This is debatable with every single person that has seen this photo, but you have people like me that clearly see a bear in the distance watching us. And then you have some people that are like, oh, that's a rock, whatever. ... I mean, clear as day, there's ears, a snout, and beady little eyes looking at you. I don't know what rocks y'all have been looking at."

"If you're the type of person that wants to see the massive big stars and the Milky Way galaxy on top of just laying out with no one else around you and the fire going, this would be a reason to come."

"The whole section of Palo Duro Canyon is completely different from the north, east, south, and west parts. The north parts, you have really pretty greenery with the rolling hills. And the east parts are just these big boulders that you get to climb up and some people that actually go out there and do rock climbing. The south part, you get some slots; you get the caves. And the west part, you still get the caves, but you get more of the tree vibe and valley feel. Everything about Palo Duro Canyon is completely different in its own unique way that you, honest to God, can't get anywhere else in the United States or even Texas."

Links to Places Mentioned in this Episode Where to Stay in Palo Duro Canyon, Texas:

• Palo Duro Canyon State Park Cabins
• Palo Duro Canyon Airbnb Cabins – If you're new to Airbnb, click here to save $50 off your first booking!

Palo Duro Canyon, Texas Outdoor Activities Mentioned in this Episode:

• Palo Duro Canyon State Park
• Lighthouse Trail
• Palo Duro Zip Line
• Palo Duro Creek Ranch – Jeep and Horse Tours
• Lake Tanglewood
• River Falls
• Lake Meredith
• Rock Garden Trail
• Capitol Peak
• Palo Duro Trading Post
• Cadillac Ranch

SHOW NOTES BONUS: Brittney's Favorite Restaurants in Canyon, Texas:

• Joe Taco
• Sayakomarn's

Palo Duro Canyon, Texas area Restaurants Mentioned in this Episode:

• Food Trucks that will come into Palo Duro Canyon:
  • Reagan's Brick Oven (Brittney says they offer amazing gluten-free pizzas as well)
  • Kokken
• The Big Texan
• 575 Pizzeria
• Cask & Cork

Thanks for Listening!

We love our listeners! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave me a comment below and let me know about your favorite part!

If you've been enjoying the show, please also consider leaving me a review in Apple Podcasts. It's super easy; click here and go to "ratings and reviews." I read and appreciate every single one! Each review helps new listeners find the podcast. Thank you!!

Follow Cinders Travels on Facebook or Instagram for Locals Know Best updates.

In this episode, I'll be speaking with Jamie Furbush, President & CEO of the Frankenmuth Chamber of Commerce & Convention and Visitors Bureau. Jamie has been in that role for over 12 years and has worked for the organization for 19 years.

In the spirit of this episode premiering during the holidays, I thought it would be fun to embrace the winter holiday season and highlight one of the United States' most magical Christmas towns – Frankenmuth, Michigan!

This, in turn, will make the episode a bit more festive than outdoorsy, but don't worry! I still wanted to keep outdoorsy elements in it for everyone, so at the end of the episode, we will switch over to a summer day in Frankenmuth.

Join Jamie and me on a tour of Frankenmuth, Michigan. We start our day out at one of Frankenmuth's amazing waterparks, make sure all of our holiday shopping is finished around town, and enjoy a world-famous chicken dinner, all while also taking in all of the town's holiday feels!

Then, in the end, we also cover a few warm-weather outdoorsy adventures that can be enjoyed in Michigan's Little Bavaria as well!

About Jamie Furbush

Jamie is a born and raised Michigander who loves living in Pure Michigan and representing the Michigan travel industry.

What We Cover in This Episode

• The two best times to visit Michigan's Little Bavaria.
• How Frankenmuth's entrepreneurial roots make it a special place not only to visit but also to live.
• Why Frankenmuth has such a festive history.
• What time of year Frankenmuth switches over to Christmas decor.
• The two most adventurous places to stay in town.
• The best spots for breakfast in Frankenmuth.
• Learn about the largest Christmas store in the world and why it's worth a visit!
• Where to get a world-famous chicken dinner.
• Why the world-famous chicken dinner is so special.
• The best spots to get lunch or dinner after you've already had the world-famous chicken dinner.
• The best ways to take in all of the holiday feels while in town.
• A local snow festival that takes place every year post-Christmas.
• A tip on the best time of the week to visit Frankenmuth.
• The best Instagram spots in Frankenmuth.
• Two fan favorites that may or may not be worth your time in Frankenmuth.
• Four outdoor adventures that are not to be missed during a summer trip to Frankenmuth.
• Why Frankenmuth is worth a holiday visit.

Quotables

"Hospitality is a really important piece, I think, of what people love about Frankenmuth and why people continue to come back generation after generation. But that's really a thing that's rooted in the people that live in and run their businesses here. Most of our businesses are family owned and operated. And so, it's a community of entrepreneurs. And you know, when we look at the year that we're dealing with here, I'm just inspired all the time by how our businesses continue to reinvent themselves and support community causes. And continue to make it not only great but better. It's just really a great place to be surrounded by people who care about each other."

"Frankenmuth's really best known for Chicken and Christmas! We're also known as Michigan's Little Bavaria … our roots of the community are German. We were settled by 15 German Lutheran missionaries. And so the roots and the heritage of the community have always been very, very important. And you can see that and feel that as you're walking the streets."

"Frankenmuth's always evolving. So, the businesses that exist are constantly reinventing themselves and adding things to their own businesses."

"Coming to Frankenmuth is an experience that people remember. It's creating memories with your loved ones, whether it's your family or friends. That's really what it's all about. It doesn't matter what you're doing when you're here. I think it'll be a memorable experience and one that you'll all remember together and you know, that time together is what's most precious. And so, I love looking out my window and seeing families connecting. Sometimes we'll see fathers sort of skipping along with their kids, and, you know, it's that time to let your guard down and just enjoy each other's presence. And that's, to me, what's really special about our streets. It sort of brings out that magic. And it's part of the charm I think of our community."

Links to Places Mentioned in this Episode Where to Stay in Frankenmuth, Michigan:

• Bavarian Inn Lodge
• Zehnder's Splash Village

Frankenmuth, Michigan Winter Activities Mentioned in this Episode:

• Frankenmuth Fudge Kitchen
• Amazin' Mitten
• Kernel Benny's Popcorn
• Frankenmuth House of Cigar
• Frankenmuth Brewery
• Bronner's Christmas Wonderland
• Silent Night Chapel at Bronner's
• Frankenmuth Cheese Haus
• Zehnder's Snowfest

Frankenmuth, Michigan Instagram Picture Spots Mentioned in this Episode:

• Christmas Guide Mentioned in the Episode
• Holz-Brücke Wooden Bridge
• Frankenmuth Cheese Haus mouse, Klaus

Frankenmuth, Michigan Summer Outdoor Activities Mentioned in this Episode:

• Kayaking the Cass River
• Bavarian Belle Riverboat (Paddlewheel Boat Mentioned)
• Frankenmuth FunShips
• The Adventure Park at Frankenmuth
• PedAle Trolley

Frankenmuth, Michigan Restaurants Mentioned in this Episode:

• The Harvest Coffeehouse
• Honey B's Eatery
• Bavarian Inn Restaurant
• Zehnder's of Frankenmuth
• Tiffany's
• da Vinci's
• Michigan on Main
• Willi's Sausage Co

Thanks for Listening!

We love our listeners! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave me a comment below and let me know about your favorite part!

If you've been enjoying the show, please also consider leaving me a review in Apple Podcasts. It's super easy; click here and go to "ratings and reviews." I read and appreciate every single one! Each review helps new listeners find the podcast. Thank you!!

Follow Cinders Travels on Facebook or Instagram for Locals Know Best updates.

In this episode, I'll be speaking with Tony and Peggy Barthel, publishers of the Stress Less Camping podcast and enthusiasts and tourism ambassadors for California's Lake County.

Join Tony, Peggy, and me on a tour of Lake County, California. We start our day at a unique bed and breakfast, get in some time on the lake, take in beautiful views, search for a local coveted treasure as well as eat and drink lots of goodies along the way!

About Tony and Peggy Barthel

Visit Tony and Peggy's Blog & Podcast – StressLess Camping

Tony and Peggy have a website, YouTube channel, and podcast devoted to making the great American RV adventure a stressless camping experience. Their platforms are chock-full of RV deals, discounts, tips, and hacks.

What We Cover in This Episode

• A really unique spot to stay at in Lake County, California.
• The best time of year to visit Lake County, California.
• Learn about a million-year-old lake that shrinks at the same time it grows and why that lake draws bass fishers from all over North America.
• The best way and spot to watch a large number of grebes.
• The best hike in the county.
• A unique local green energy source.
• A specific deep-fried delight in the Lake County area.
• One spot where you can embark on an adventure along with your wine tasting.
• A musical hidden secret of Lake County.
• The best way to take in the stars in the midst of the Dark Sky community.
• The best Lake County, California picture spots.
• What separates Lake County wineries from Napa County wineries.

Quotables

It's just such a place to slow down and just take in nature. Just being in a place that's slower and wider. There are no parking fees anywhere. … So much an easier pace and easier place. You can go to the place you want. You can park there. You can walk around. And just not be crowded into busy city streets.

Peggy Barthel

These wineries up here are really the passion of an individual or family. And so you can feel that. You can hear their philosophy in how they grow and produce these wines. …. It's a very different experience to talk to wineries at this level, as opposed to really big commercial operations.

Tony Barthel

There's plenty to do. Especially if you enjoy nature and outdoor activities, and all of that. It's a pretty cool place.

Tony Barthel

If you want to decompress and see people who really care about the community and get that authentic small-town feel, but with big-city quality musicians and food, Lake County's a great place to come. And we're only a couple of hours from Sacramento or San Francisco.

Tony Barthel

Links to Places Mentioned in this Episode

• Where to Stay in Lake County, California:
  • Featherbed Railroad
  Lake County, California Outdoor Destinations Mentioned in this Episode:
  • Clear Lake
  • Mount Konocti
  Lake County, California Activities Mentioned in this Episode:
  • Disney's Boat Rentals
  • The Geysers
  • Taylor Observatory
  Lake County, California Restaurants Mentioned in this Episode:
  • O'Meara Bros. Brewing Company
  • Six Sigma Ranch and Winery
  • Blue Wing Saloon Restaurant

Thanks for Listening!

We love our listeners! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave me a comment below and let me know about your favorite part! If you've been enjoying the show, please also consider leaving me a review in Apple Podcasts. It's super easy; click here and go to "ratings and reviews." I read and appreciate every single one! Each review helps new listeners find the podcast. Thank you!! Follow Cinders Travels on Facebook or Instagram for Locals Know Best updates.

In this episode, I'll be speaking with Jessi Bang, who will be introducing us to some of the lesser-known gems that exist beyond Zion National Park in Southern Utah.

Join Jessi and me on a tour of Southern Utah's lesser-known hidden gems. We talk about everywhere you should go, after visiting Zion, Bryce Canyon, and the Wave!

About Jessi Bang

Visit Jessi's Blog – The Rambling Raccoon

Jessi Bang is a blogger, adventure-lover, and dog mom, based in beautiful Southern Utah. She's known for encouraging people to get outside and experience the beauty around us! She's an avid hiker, outdoor lover, and traveler! If you're looking for some fantastic places to hike in Southern Utah, be sure to check out her blog and social media channels at The Rambling Raccoon! She always outlines all the details you need to get the best experience possible.

What We Cover in This Episode

• A mountain that draws people to the area.
• The best time of year to visit southern Utah.
• Hidden gems beyond Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park.
• The best place to stay near Zion National Park.
• A beautiful art garden in the area.
• The most underrated State Park in Southern Utah, complete with slot canyons and petrified dunes!
• The best southern Utah picture spots.
• A beautiful photo spot perfect for toddlers.
• A gas station where you can find the best healthy food in the area.
• What you should know about droning etiquette.
• How to go about hiking into a dormant volcano in southern Utah.
• Where to find the best sushi in St. George.
• How to find the one nightlife spot in St. George.
• Everything you need to know about obtaining and drinking alcohol in Utah.
• One VERY POPULAR southern Utah adventure that's worth skipping, and where you could go instead, to get an even BETTER experience.
• And what you should know about Leave No Trace etiquette and not being a "trash human".

Quotes

There's a huge red mountain that's literally called Red Mountain, that I live underneath, and I was just drawn to this mountain. I came to visit my parents, and I cried the whole way home to Vegas because I didn't want to go back. I just felt like I was supposed to be here. And it's kind of crazy because I've talked to quite a few people who've had the same experience. There's just some type of energy I can't explain in these red rocks, and I just, I love it.

I think most people that come visit the area go to Zion, maybe Bryce Canyon. There's a few places that are very popular, and they're popular for a reason because they're beautiful. I just think it's really important to showcase the other places most people don't really know about because they're hidden gems, and they're amazing.

Just disclaimer: If you go to any place I tell you to go to, just don't be a trash human because I just can't handle it. Don't ruin these spots for everyone.

…Don't be a garbage human. Don't carve on rocks. Don't spray on rocks. Don't leave trash. Just go, take pictures, leave footprints, and leave it for everybody else to enjoy.

Come visit. Come explore. It's gorgeous. It's breathtaking. And no matter how many times I even see the same place, I still am just in awe when I'm sitting there and looking at these views. And it's just, it's a magical place. It's beautiful. And I truly do believe that being outside is the best therapy in the world, especially with what's going on in the world right now. Just get outside. Get outside, get fresh air, hike, enjoy views. Just be. That's the best part about Southern Utah.

Links to Places Mentioned in this Episode

Where to Stay in Southern Utah:

• Zion Ponderosa Ranch Resort

Southern Utah Lesser-Known Outdoor Destinations, Beyond Zion, Mentioned in this Episode:

• Red Mountains
• Snow Canyon State Park
• Cinder Cone Trail
• Yant Flat Trailhead
• Kanarraville Falls

Southern Utah Restaurants Mentioned in this Episode:

• Xetava Gardens Cafe
• Mixed Greens
• Sakura Japanese Steakhouse
• One & Only
• Wing Nutz

Thanks for Listening!

We love our listeners! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave me a comment below and let me know about your favorite part!

If you've been enjoying the show, please also consider leaving me a review in Apple Podcasts. It's super easy; click here and go to "ratings and reviews." I read and appreciate every single one! Each review helps new listeners find the podcast. Thank you!!

Follow Cinders Travels on Facebook or Instagram for Locals Know Best updates.

In this episode, I'll be talking with adventurer Brandon Perlow about his perfect two-day hiking itinerary down to the bottom of the Grand Canyon and then back up!

Join Brandon and me on an engaging journey down through multiple levels of Grand Canyon National Park, exploring all of the best stops, lookouts, and places to stay along the way!

About Brandon Perlow

Brandon Perlow is an avid traveler and adventure-seeker. He's been to all seven continents, all 50 states, and has lived abroad as well as across the country. He's run ultramarathons, climbed Kilimanjaro, and navigated class five white water rapids. These days, he calls Arizona home with his family, and he chose Arizona in large part due to the incredible choices for outdoor adventures. Of those many options, only one reigns supreme: Grand Canyon National Park.

What We Cover in This Episode

• The best time of year to hike to the bottom of the Grand Canyon.
• The most desirable hiking route to get to the bottom of the Grand Canyon and then back up to the rim.
• An important tip you should know about water availability on the Grand Canyon corridor trails.
• The best places to stay at the top and bottom of Grand Canyon National Park.
• How to obtain permits for multi-day hiking excursions.
• How to score last-minute Phantom Ranch accommodations at the bottom of the Grand Canyon!
• One treat you can't skip out on enjoying at the bottom of the Grand Canyon.
• How to get around packing your camping stove.
• Shorter hike options for those who don't have two days.
• The best Grand Canyon National Park picture spots.
• The optimal way to unwind after hiking to the bottom of the Grand Canyon and back.

Quotables

"For me, there's nothing better than getting in the car, heading up to the Grand Canyon, and spending as much time as possible there."

"When you're a thousand feet below the rim. It's a 360-degree experience, which completely changes your perspective."

"There's not a lot of places in the world where you can walk amongst two billion-year-old rocks, just right next to you."

"I don't think there's a bad place to take a picture of the Grand Canyon."

Links to Places Mentioned in this Episode

Grand Canyon National Park Trails Mentioned in this Episode:

• Bright Angel Trail
• South Kaibab Trail
• Rim Trail

Grand Canyon National Park Hiking Resources Mentioned in this Episode:

• Map and Backcountry Hiking Brochure
• Hiker Express Shuttle
• Critical Backcountry Updates

Grand Canyon Area Hotels & Lodging Mentioned in this Episode:

• El Tovar Hotel
• Phantom Ranch
• Bright Angel Lodge

Grand Canyon National Park Lodging Resources Mentioned in this Episode:

• Phantom Ranch Availability
• Phantom Ranch Lottery
• Camping Permit Request

Thanks for Listening!

We love our listeners! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave me a comment below and let me know about your favorite part!

If you've been enjoying the show, please also consider leaving me a review in Apple Podcasts. It's super easy; click here and go to "ratings and reviews." I read and appreciate every single one! Each review helps new listeners find the podcast. Thank you!!

Follow Cinders Travels on Facebook or Instagram for Locals Know Best updates.

In this episode, I'll be talking with local business owner Heather Johnson about the perfect day of outdoor adventure in Fayetteville, West Virginia.

You may or may not know this, but Fayetteville has some of the best rafting in the United States.

The town of Fayetteville has been named best Rivertown in 2013 by Blue Ridge Outdoor Magazine, and one of the 2006 Top 10 Coolest Small Towns in America by Budget Travel Magazine.

Today's episode is going to be a little bit of a unique one because it's entirely possible to have an incredible day of outdoor adventure at River Expeditions without ever even leaving their campus. But don't worry, we'll still touch on some of the local spots in town that are not to be missed!

Join Heather and me as we tackle rafting trips down the New River and the Gauley River, explore the surrounding neighborhood, and wrap up our day in one of the best ways possible!

About Heather Johnson

Check out Heather's Company – River Expeditions

Heather is a native West Virginian who co-owns, along with her husband, an adventure outfitter business that primarily focuses on rafting trips, known as River Expeditions. She's a second-generation rafting outfitter, who's been in the business for 24 years.

What We Cover in This Episode

• The best time of year to visit Fayetteville, West Virginia.
• The difference between the three distinct whitewater rafting seasons in West Virginia.
• A West Virginia river that people come from all around the globe to raft.
• What a multi-day rafting trip in West Virginia is like.
• All of the other activities you can do in town, beyond rafting.
• What a full day rafting trip in West Virginia is like.
• Jump rock, threading the needle & surfing the rapids!
• The number one thing that leads to a successful day on the rapids.
• The best places to get a meal in Fayetteville, WV.
• Where to go for all of the best hiking, mountain biking, and climbing route recommendations in Fayetteville.
• One Fayetteville, WV spot that's not to be missed.
• What makes River Expeditions stand apart from the competition.
• The best way to unwind after a long day of rafting.

Quotables

[River Expeditions runs] the Gauley River, which is world-class. So people come from literally all around the globe to experience the whitewater from the Gauley River.

I would encourage everybody just to give it a try. Start off with the low impact, gentle float trip. And, yeah, if you like that you can work your way up to the whitewater

We end up beneath the world-famous New River Gorge Bridge, and you can't beat that for spectacular scenery and just the all inspiring views that you'll see in the Gorge.

Everything's more fun in a 55 passenger bus.

[West Viriginia] was once known as America's Best Kept Secret. We don't want it to be secret anymore.

Links to Places Mentioned in this Episode

Where to Stay in Fayetteville, West Virginia:

• River Expeditions

Fayetteville, West Virginia Outdoor Destinations Mentioned:

• The Gauley River & The New River
• New River Gorge Bridge
• New River Gorge Visitor Center – Canyon Rim Location
• Long Point Trail
• Endless Wall Trail
• River Expeditions Non-Rafting Adventure Partners & Resources – including Paddleboarding, Rock Climbing, Paintball, Hiking, Horseback Riding, Fishing, Mountain Biking, ATV Tours, Zipline & Canopy Tours!

Fayetteville, West Virginia Area Destinations Mentioned:

• Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine (Accidentally named the "Berkeley Coal Mine Exhibit" in the episode by me.)
• The Mystery Hole

Fayetteville, West Virginia Restaurants Mentioned:

• Cathedral Cafe & Book Store
• Red Dog River Saloon & Grill
• Pies & Pints
• Secret Sandwich Society
• Bridge Brew Works

Thanks for Listening!

We love our listeners! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave me a comment below and let me know about your favorite part!If you've been enjoying the show, please also consider leaving me a review in Apple Podcasts. It's super easy; click here and go to "ratings and reviews." I read and appreciate every single one! Each review helps new listeners find the podcast. Thank you!!Follow Cinders Travels on Facebook or Instagram for Locals Know Best updates.

In this episode, I'll be talking with local business owner Becky Wadley about making the most of an outdoorsy day in Mountain View, Arkansas.

Join Becky and me as we bike, hike, kayak, canoe, and swim all around town, and then close out our day in a way that's almost required in this small town!

Becky is not only an avid RVer but also an RV blogger at Homeiswherewetakeit.com and the owner of Whitewater RV Park. She's been married for 29 years and is the mother of 3 adult children. She's also an avid DIYer and will give just about anything a go before she decides whether or not she can tackle the task. Becky considers herself a jack of all trades and a master of none.

What We Cover in This Episode

• The best time of year to visit Mountain View, Arkansas.
• The best time of year to enjoy live music in Mountain View.
• Find out why the Ozarks Folk Center is worth a visit.
• The best places to go for biscuits and gravy.
• Where to go for biking, hiking, kayaking, canoeing, or swimming! (check how I said this on Swiss's)
• How to find local caverns you can hike through.
• The best breakfast, lunch, and dinner spots in Mountain View.
• Mountain View's impressive disc golf claim to fame!
• Why antiquers love Mountain View.
• Four of the most beautiful places for Instagram pictures, and one you shouldn't drive to at night in the rain.
• One Mountain View spot worth missing in the area.

Quotes

"The main thing about Mountain View is the music."

"It's a breath of fresh air, really. Just because it's such a simpler way of life."

"Mountain View has a very Mayberry feel to it. So, it's just kind of like, it likens back to like a more innocent time, you know, when, maybe before TV, when people just, the only entertainment they had was to play their music on their front porch or something like that. And so, it hearkens a real innocence in the town. I really would just love that kind of family atmosphere."

"If I was honestly speaking, I would say most of Arkansas would be an outdoorsy kind of place."

If you love music, if you love camping, if you love fishing, if you love hiking or biking or anything that you're going to do outdoors, Mountain View is a great place to go and you won't regret it.

Links to Places Mentioned in this Episode Where to Stay in Mountain View, Arkansas:

• Whitewater RV Park

Mountain View, Arkansas Outdoor Destinations Mentioned:

• City Park Stone Amphitheater
• Ozark Folk Center State Park
• Washington Street Park, aka "The Pickin' Park"
• Stone County Fairgrounds
• Blanchard Springs Cavern
• Gunner Pool Recreation Area
• Mirror Lake
• Loco Ropes
• Bluegrass Trails Disc Golf Course
• Syllamo Bike Trails

Mountain View, Arkansas Restaurants Mentioned:

• Moonshot Coffee (called the Moon Cafe in the podcast)
• Mi Pueblito
• PJs Rainbow Cafe
• The Skillet Restaurant (called the Iron Skillet in the podcast)
• Kin Folk's BBQ
• Jo Jo's Catfish Wharf
• Music Box Ice Cream

One Important Piece of Information that was Not Mentioned During the Podcast

Becky later told me one tidbit that she wanted to make sure I included in the show notes. She said, "We are in a DRY COUNTY! Alcohol is allowed, but not sold…ANYWHERE!" So be sure to plan accordingly on your trip to the area.

Thanks for Listening!

We love our listeners! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave me a comment below and let me know about your favorite part!

If you've been enjoying the show, please also consider leaving me a review in Apple Podcasts. It's super easy; click here and go to "ratings and reviews." I read and appreciate every single one! Each review helps new listeners find the podcast. Thank you!!

Follow Cinders Travels on Facebook or Instagram for Locals Know Best updates.

In this episode, I'm going to be talking with born and raised local, Micah Idler, about how to make the most of an outdoorsy trip in Delaware. And more specifically, we'll be exploring a few of Delaware's east coast towns, including Lewes, Rehoboth Beach, and Dewey Beach.

Join Micah and me as we explore what else there is to do, beyond the beaches in Lewes, Rehoboth Beach, and Dewey Beach, Delaware!

Take an LA Tour with Micah or Connect with Micah on Instagram

Micah is a world-traveling storyteller who's currently a professional tour guide in Los Angeles. Micah went to school for history and education, studying geography, political science, and architecture. He loves meeting new people and showing them around his favorite spots, whether they are out in the wild or at the bar.

What We Cover in This Episode

• The best time of year to visit Delaware.
• The main difference between a Delaware beach vacation and a Maryland beach vacation.
• The different vibes between the Delaware beaches.
• A dining spot you must hit up on the way if you're driving in from D.C. or Baltimore.
• The best outdoor activities to take part in, outside of the beach.
• The best breakfast, lunch, dinner, and drinks on the east coast of Delaware.
• One fun tip that'll get you a free donut!
• Delaware weather tips.
• The best spot to catch crabs.
• Which spots, of all the competitors, have the best french fry and ice cream.
• Two of the most beautiful places for pictures.
• A terrific historical spot to visit that many visitors miss!
• The most overrated destination on the east coast of Delaware.

Quotes

I think the best option is really getting a group of friends or your family out and just sharing a house together and just creating a bond through activities, great food, whether indoors or out.

Micah Idler

I think it's more about quality in Delaware. Even if it does get busy, which it does, I feel like it's still a local kind of vibe to it. And I think that Delaware has done a good job of kind of preserving that.

Micah Idler

I feel like there's so much I still didn't talk about. But that's the thing is that I just love Delaware and the beaches so much that it's always home, even if I don't live there at the moment. So I highly recommend people checking it out and that they can actually experience it for themselves.

Micah Idler

Links to Places Mentioned in this Episode Where to Stay:

• In a Rental – Join Airbnb and get up to $65 off your first trip!

Destinations to Explore on the Drive In Mentioned:

• Dogfish Head Craft Brewery (Milton Location)
• Mispillion River Brewing
• Vanderwende Farm Creamery
• Paradise Grill
• Greenwood Chicken Barbecue

Outdoor Destinations Mentioned:

• Cape Henlopen State Park
• Indian River Inlet
• Delaware Bay
• Delaware Seashore State Park
• Cannonball House
• Big Chill Beach Club

Lewes Restaurants Mentioned:

• Nectar
• Notting Hill Coffee
• Irish Eyes Pub & Restaurant
• Hopkins Farm Creamery
• Crooked Hammock Brewery
• Big Oyster Brewery

Rehoboth Beach Restaurants Mentioned:

• Dogfish Head Brewing & Eats
• Chesapeake & Maine
• Revelation Craft Brewing
• Thompson Island Brewing Company
• Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant
• Egg
• Rise Up Coffee
• Fractured Prune
• The Crab House
• Claws Seafood House
• Nalu Rehoboth Beach
• Salt Air
• The Cultured Pearl
• Stingray Sushi Bar
• Thrasher's French Fries
• The Point Coffee Shop & Bakery

Dewey Beach Restaurants Mentioned:

• Gary's Dewey Beach Grill
• Nalu Dewey Beach
• Dewey Beer Co.

Thanks for Listening!

We love our listeners! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave me a comment below and let me know about your favorite part!

If you've been enjoying the show, please also consider leaving me a review in Apple Podcasts. It's super easy; click here and go to "ratings and reviews." I read and appreciate every single one! Each review helps new listeners find the podcast. Thank you!!

Follow Cinders Travels on Facebook or Instagram for Locals Know Best updates.