Finding a good campground can sometimes feel like a gamble. You can look at photos online, read through the campground description, and hope that the site you reserve looks anything like the pictures when you arrive. Sometimes you end up pleasantly surprised, and other times you spend the entire trip wishing you had booked somewhere else. Our stay at Alpine North Loop Campground near Alpine, Wyoming, ended up being somewhere in between. We had a beautiful campsite surrounded

I didn’t go to San Sebastián planning to learn how to surf. That was not part of the plan. The plan was food, ocean views, wandering the city, and pretending I was going to “take it slow.” And then I got to Zurriola Beach. Watched surfers make it look way too easy. Then booked a surf lesson. Why San Sebastián Is a Great Place to Learn Surfing San Sebastián sits on Spain’s northern coast in the Basque Country, and it has a very specific kind of energy: relaxed, coastal, and qu

Montreal, the crown jewel of Quebec, is a city that never fails to surprise. With its European flair, rich cultural heritage, vibrant food scene, and legendary nightlife, Montreal offers the perfect blend for an unforgettable weekend escape. Whether you're a foodie, a history buff, a shopaholic, or a party animal, this city has something for everyone. From exploring the cobblestone streets of Old Montreal to sipping cocktails under the city lights, here's how to make the most

When it comes to camping, one of the most important gear decisions you’ll make is choosing the right tent. Whether you’re a weekend warrior heading to your local state park or an ambitious backpacker planning a multi-day trek through the mountains, your tent is your home away from home, and it can make or break your outdoor experience. But with so many options on the market, picking the right tent can feel overwhelming. Should you get a lightweight backpacking tent or a spaci

Paddle boarding in Utah is one of the easiest ways to experience the state’s mix of mountains, desert light, and wide-open water. With dozens of reservoirs and lakes scattered across the state, it is one of the best places in the Mountain West for stand up paddle boarding. Whether you are looking for calm beginner-friendly water or more scenic, remote paddles, these are the best places to paddle board in Utah based on accessibility, scenery, and water conditions. Here are the

Which Scuba Trip Should You Choose: Liveaboard or Hotel-Based Diving? For anyone with a passion for the underwater world, few experiences...

If there’s one thing I love about Colorado summers, it’s finding an excuse to get out on the water. Paddleboarding is one of my favorite ways to slow down, soak in the scenery, and enjoy everything from city lakes to mountain reservoirs. Whether you’re brand new to stand up paddleboarding or you’ve been doing it for years, there are plenty of amazing places to launch your board within an easy drive of Denver. Some spots are perfect for a quick evening paddle after work, while

Tucked between Long Island’s North and South Forks and only reachable by ferry, Shelter Island feels like one of New York’s best-kept secrets. It’s the kind of place where time slows down a little. Marshland and sea meet in quiet rhythm, and every beach, trail, and small shop feels like it belongs exactly where it is. It sits only a few miles from the Hamptons, but the energy couldn’t be more different. Where the Hamptons lean polished and busy, Shelter Island feels softer, m

Few things feel as freeing as the sun on your skin, the sound of waves crashing nearby, and the sand between your toes. Whether you're...

Vermont, with its pristine lakes, meandering rivers, and breathtaking mountain vistas, offers some of the finest paddleboarding...

Before we jump into this blog post, I just wanted to say thank you for being here. This marks my 100th blog post, and I honestly couldn't have reached this milestone without all of you. If you've been following along since the beginning, thank you for your support over the last four years. And if you're new here, welcome! I'm so happy you found Seven Seas and Winter Trees. If you enjoy travel stories, destination guides, and a little bit of adventure, I'd love for you to subs

There’s something about arriving at Chatfield Reservoir just after sunrise that keeps drawing me back. As the first light stretches across the water, the reservoir takes on a quiet glow. The distant Front Range peaks reflect on the surface, prairie grasses sway in the breeze, and for a few moments, it feels like you have the entire place to yourself. Even though Chatfield Reservoir is only a short drive from Denver, it has always felt like an escape from the city for me. I've

Growing up, some of my most treasured memories come from sailing to Martha’s Vineyard. After hours of sailing, the moment the island’s shoreline appears on the horizon feels like a quiet celebration. The salty breeze, the gentle rocking of the boat, and the sight of the island’s familiar contours bring a deep sense of peace and excitement all at once. That first glimpse of Martha’s Vineyard always signals the start of an unforgettable escape to one of New England’s most charm

Every summer, I find myself pulled back to the same place, the gentle sway of the boat, the salt in the air, and the first glimpse of Block Island coming into view on the horizon. Some of my earliest memories are tied to sailing here, watching the shoreline slowly take shape after hours on the water, moving through the Long Island Sound as Block Island came into view. Arriving by boat is part of the experience. You don’t just show up. You ease into it. The beaches stretch out

Deep in the rugged western heart of Colorado lies a place where time has carved its mark with relentless patience. Black Canyon of the...

If you're looking for a scenic spot in Colorado to unwind by the water, cast a fishing line, or simply bask in wide-open views, Elk Creek...

When planning your next outdoor adventure, one of the first big decisions you’ll face is whether to explore a national park or a state park. Both offer incredible opportunities to connect with nature, hike, camp, and experience breathtaking landscapes, but they are not the same. Each has its own unique features, management style, and visitor experience that can significantly affect your trip. In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences between national and state parks

The first time I visited a U.S. National Park, I was buzzing with excitement, ready to soak up the views, hike all the trails, and check...

I recently spent a night at Circus Circus Reno, specifically in the Sky Tower, and I wanted to share my honest thoughts. If you’re considering staying at this iconic Reno casino hotel, especially on a budget or just passing through, this review should help you decide if it’s actually worth booking. Where Circus Circus Reno Is Located Circus Circus Reno is located in downtown Reno, making it a convenient option if you want to be close to other casinos, restaurants, and attract

If you’re dreaming of a day filled with mountain views, easy adventure, and quiet moments outside, Rocky Mountain National Park is such a beautiful place to spend it. I spent a full day exploring from dawn to dusk, and it ended up being one of those days that felt full in the best way. There was plenty to see and do, but there were also so many moments that made me want to slow down and just take it all in. If you’re planning a Rocky Mountain National Park day trip, these are