OffBeat Pathfinder Basecamp

You haven’t really explored Florida until you’ve found yourself knee-deep in the Everglades after sunset. Here are my top five encounters that still haunt me: (1) The glowing eyes that watched me from the reeds—later confirmed to be gators, plural; (2) The inexplicable fog that rolled in out of ...

Cypress knees make terrible pillows. Who else has braved a Louisiana swamp campout?

Everyone has their “secret” waterfall. I found one last weekend and I’m almost tempted not to share. Almost. Anyone else got a spot that’s off the main trail? DM me and I might swap locations.

Hikers: what’s your favorite hidden gem? Sworn to secrecy or sharing with the class? #alabamawaterfalls ...

I’ll reveal my favorite if you share yours first—no gatekeeping here! Bonus if you’ve slipped on a rock or gotten lost. #waterfalls #secretspots

Okay, let’s settle this once and for all: Dreamland or Archibald’s? I risked my cholesterol levels for science and did a side-by-side rib tasting. Dreamland’s sauce is legendary, but Archibald’s smoky flavor had me considering a life of barbecue devotion.

Locals, defend your favorites! Outsiders ...

Locals argue over brisket like it’s religion. Tried both and I’m not picking a side—you’ll have to bribe me with banana pudding. Who’s got strong opinions? #alabamabbq #dreamland #archibalds

Yall, Marfa is like if a UFO crashed into a hipster gallery and then got sunburned. No kidding. I rolled in thinking I’d just see the Marfa Lights and eat some tacos, but I wound up wandering an art maze and arguing about “what is art anyway” with a guy named Clive.

First, those dang lights. I ...

If you're obsessed with UFO lore, alien museums, and conspiracy theories, Roswell, New Mexico is ground zero for America’s fascination with visitors from beyond. I spent a weird and wonderful weekend here and can confirm: it’s out of this world—sometimes literally.

Main Street is full of green ...

Once met a local who swore the best stargazing is from the wind farm turnoff. Brought a picnic, nearly blew away, saw the Milky Way for the first time! Anyone else nearly fainted hiking Indian Canyons? The palm oases are worth every drop of sweat.

I grew up in Seattle and still think the North Cascades are the best part of the state. Did you try Diablo Lake overlook? Unreal color. Pro tip: If you’re driving Hwy 20 in late spring, watch out for mountain bikers AND deer—almost hit both in the same trip!