Josh Hollandsworth

If you are visiting Anchorage, and you don't have time to get away from the city, the Point Woronzof Park offers some excellent views of Mt. Susitna, the Cook Inlet, and the Anchorage skyline in the distance. The park is located just outside the north end of the Ted Stevens airport. Not only can you watch an amazing sunset, but you can also watch the massive FedEx and UPS planes soar in overhea...

Point Defiance Park is the largest urban park in Pierce County and it provides a variety of amenities. Located at the very northwest tip of Tacoma, the park provides residents with a much needed retreat from the bustle of everyday life. Point Defiance Park is the place to go if you need a quick dose of nature, but you don't have a lot of time to travel out of Tacoma. The Owen Beach parking lot ...

There are multiple out-and-back and loop hikes in this wildlife refuge, but the main attraction is the lighthouse along the Gulf Coast. Right next to the lighthouse is a pond where you are guaranteed to see several alligators. If you hike to the end of the levy across from the lighthouse you can catch an amazing sunset and the occasional dolphin sighting.A great place to take your family to sho...

The lake is surrounded by snow-capped mountains that host a variety of interesting wildlife. If you look closely, it is not uncommon to see a Dall's sheep or two on the mountain side. At the western edge of the lake, you will find the parking lot and trailhead. There are picnic tables and a bathhouse located next to the parking lot if you choose to hang out by the lake for the day.If you decide...

Nestled in the mountains behind Eagle River, AK is Mt. Baldy. The hike to the top is an excellent choice if your time in Alaska is limited. The trailhead begins at the end of a spacious parking lot, which also offers some impressive views if any members of you party cannot make the climb. The trail is well-marked and well-traveled, so there should be little confusion on your way to the top. Whe...

Located only a short distance from the Trans-Canada highway is the Bridal Veil Falls Provincial Park. The park is a great area for a picnic lunch, but the highlight of the park is the almost 200 ft. (60 meter) waterfall. The location of the park and the duration of the hike to the waterfall make this park a great stop for travelers who want to stretch their legs.  After you leave the parking lo...

The upper peninsula of Michigan is connected to the mainland by the Mackinac Bridge. This bridge is quite impressive from a distance and it makes a great object for photography at any time of the day. If you want to get up close to the bridge, try visiting one of the parks located on the north or south end of the bridge.  The park on the southern/mainland side is called Colonial Michilimackinac...

The Gold Creek Trail is one of several trails in the Green Mountain region. Although the trail is intertwined with others, it is almost impossible to start down the wrong path. The trail is well-marked and well-maintained, making this an excellent option for the family.  The trail begins at the end of the parking lot and eventually parallels the Gold Creek. Be sure to explore the waterfalls loc...

Stone Mountain sits on the outskirts of downtown Atlanta. Located in the center of Stone Mountain Park, this 1,686 ft. granite mound provides visitors with a challenging cardio workout and excellent panoramic views of the Atlanta metropolitan area.  Those who want to climb Stone Mountain should use the Walk-up Mountain Trail located near the gate along Robert E. Lee Blvd. To enter the park, y...