Nature, Nearby

Top 5 Texas State Parks Within 2 Hours of Houston

Trade traffic for nature—trails, lakes, and starry skies are closer than you think.

10/22/2025 By Saba Khonsari

Beat the heat

Where to Chase the Best Waterfalls in Texas

Take a weekend trip to one of the waterfalls the Lone Star State has to offer.

08/27/2025 By Geneva Diaz and Sofia Gonzalez

Iconic Texas Road Trips

How to Make the Long Drive to Big Bend National Park More Fun

Break up time on the road with stops to explore caverns in Sonora, shop in Boerne, and much more.

06/16/2025 By Sofia Gonzalez

New Year, New You

New Year’s Resolutions to Keep Fit in Houston without the Gym

Instead of getting a gym membership you’ll cancel soon, why not pick up some new hobbies in the city?

01/02/2024 By Uvie Bikomo

Saguaro Magic

Phoenix Is the Desert Escape You Need This Winter

With its unique food scene and gorgeous Southwestern landscape, the Arizona capital is the perfect getaway for the cooler months ahead.

11/06/2023 By Emma Balter

Take a Hike

These Houston Trails Promise Beauty and Adventure

You’ve stretched out your hammies, leashed up your good dogs, and are ready to crank out the mileage. But where to?

08/30/2023 By Gwendolyn Knapp

Climb Every Mountain

The Guadalupe Peak Trail Will Test Your Limits

It sure is painful to summit, but the views are priceless.

03/30/2021 By Carlos Brandon

Safe Travels

Reconnect with the Great Outdoors in Dog-Friendly Aspen

Hikes, pools, patios, and your pup.

08/31/2020 By Jayme Lamm

Road Trips

Scottsdale Makes for a Safe Getaway

With a few precautions and a cooler of grub, a wanderluster hits the road to Arizona.

07/23/2020 By Janan Araujo-Siam

Waaay down

This Walking Tour Guides You Through Houston's Downtown Tunnels

Explore the city's history just 20 feet below the ground.

01/30/2020 By Heather Saucier

Weekend Getaways

10 Things You Can't Miss in Crested Butte

Local eats, wildflowers, and crazy mountain bikers in costumes.

08/26/2019 By Jayme Lamm

Gulf Coast Vacations

You Don't Have to Be an Angler to Visit Grand Isle

Hiking and birdwatching on Louisiana's only inhabited barrier island.

04/25/2019 By Gwendolyn Knapp

Spring Day Trips

Conroe Is Full of Surprises

Barbecue, breweries, and walking all of it off in the Sam Houston National Forest.

02/25/2019 By Morgan Kinney

Happy Trails

Where to Run, Walk, and Bike in Houston Right Now

We’re currently sitting on more than 100 miles of paths and trails. And there’s more—a lot more—on the way. So, come on! Get out there and explore.

01/28/2019 Edited by Gwendolyn Knapp

The High Life

This Summer's Guide to the Coolest Mountain Getaways

It’s hot, Houston. Head for the hills—no, make that mountains.

06/21/2017 By Catherine Matusow, Katharine Shilcutt, Cindy Hirschfeld, and Melissa Fields

Hill Country Guide

Climb to the Sky in Garner State Park

The trails might be challenging, but they're worth it.

04/17/2017 By Marianella Orlando

Get Out

Texas State Parks Get Even More Accessible with a New App

Find a swimming hole near you, book your campsites online and always travel with a trail map in your pocket with the recently released TPWD app.

03/02/2017 By Katharine Shilcutt

Fitness Friday

Backpacking 101: How to Avoid Rookie Mistakes

These five pitfalls could derail your outdoor adventure.

02/17/2017 By Andrea Park

Travel

4 Reasons to Budget for a Trip to Billings

Montana's Magic City may be the farthest destination from your mind when planning your next vacation, but maybe it shouldn't be.

01/13/2017 By Bryce Dodds

Get Out

The Texas State Park Camping Trips You Need to Book Now

Campsite reservations fill up fast at these state park favorites.

12/23/2016 By Katharine Shilcutt