OffBeat Pathfinder Basecamp

I love a good beach, but Gulf Shores seems to be either paradise or packed, depending on who you ask. I visited last spring and couldn’t decide if I was at a secret gem or a theme park.

Locals: When’s the best time to go without stepping on 400 coolers? Tourists: Was it everything you hoped? Let ...

Peak summer = towel to towel on the beach, but that water is worth it. Locals: is there a “secret” spot you’ll actually share, or is it all just Instagram smoke and mirrors? #gulfshores #crowdsurfing

camped near the river, thought coyotes were howlin but was just a bunch of college kids on guitars,
bacon cooked on a campfire tastes better under the tetons,
you ever see that many stars?
jackson gets weird after midnight lol.

Used to think El Paso was just “the pass” until I spent a night bar-hopping near UTEP—epic music, even better people-watching.


Got lost looking for a taco stand, ended up at a late-night bakery instead. Zero regrets.


If you’re up for a drive, Hueco Tanks is surreal—don’t forget your permit!

Love this thread! I stayed in a retro camper just outside town last spring—walked to Sugarbush Farm for maple samples and nearly rolled back down the hill. If you like quirky museums, the Vermont Toy Museum is worth an hour, especially if you’re a kid at heart.

The North Cascades are my go-to for escaping crowds. Last fall, I camped at Colonial Creek—woke up to fog rolling over the water, totally silent. Trail tip: Thunder Knob Trail is short but the views are insane. And yes, it rained the whole time. Would do it again!

How do you make a road trip playlist that keeps the peace?

Saw prayer bundles hanging in the wind—felt the sacred vibe. Also, prairie dogs there have no fear. One stared me down while I took photos.