Planning a Trip to the Grand Canyon

When should you travel to avoid the heaviest crowds and the most intense heat? Should you visit the North Rim or the South Rim? Where’s the best place to stay? For answers to these questions and more, read the following tips for planning a trip to the Grand Canyon.

South Rim vs. North Rim vs. Grand Canyon West

Grand Canyon National Park is split into two sections: the South Rim and the North Rim, located more than four hours apart by car. Then there’s Grand Canyon West, located on the Hualapai Native American Reservation, four hours from the South Rim and nearly seven hours from the North Rim. Where should you go if you’re planning a trip to the Grand Canyon and your time is limited?

The South Rim is the most visited part of the Grand Canyon for a reason. It has more viewpoints than the North Rim, with more expansive views of the canyon’s depth and a broader range of lodging options and other visitor services. It also has plenty of hiking trails and activities like river rafting and mule rides. This is the place to go if you’re looking for classic Grand Canyon views.

Popular with hikers and photographers, the North Rim is the South Rim’s quieter, more heavily forested cousin. While the views may be less spectacular, many travelers prefer the North Rim for its undisturbed wildlife and pristine trails. Since the North Rim is at a higher elevation, it gets significantly more snow in winter than the South Rim and is closed seasonally to all vehicles between December 1 and May 14. No visitor services are available during this time.

The key draw at Grand Canyon West is the Skywalk, a glass bridge that extends 70 feet over the canyon for dizzying views on all sides—including right under your feet. (Important note: The Skywalk does not permit cameras or phones. Professional photos are available for sale.) This isn’t the best bet for avid hikers, as there are only two (relatively easy) trails here. Still, other activities include zip-lining, pontoon boat rides, and whitewater rafting. Grand Canyon West is the closest part of the canyon to Las Vegas, making it a convenient, though long, day trip.

Note that because Grand Canyon West is located on Native American land, it requires a separate entry fee from the North and South Rims, which are administered by the National Park Service.

When to Visit the Grand Canyon

When planning a trip to the Grand Canyon, consider visiting the South Rim any time other than summer—especially if you’re hoping to hike down to the bottom of the canyon, where temperatures can soar above 100 degrees Fahrenheit in July and August. Summer is also the busiest time of year; lodging in the park is expensive and sells out quickly, and viewpoints along the rim can be jammed with crowds.

The South Rim is open all year round, and you’ll find pleasant temperatures and smaller crowds in the shoulder seasons (spring and fall). Even a winter visit can be rewarding; bundle up and enjoy the sight of the canyon dusted with snow.

Thanks to its higher altitude, the North Rim has a cooler climate and is closed between mid-October and mid-May. Fortunately, this part of the park sees fewer visitors and isn’t usually crowded, even during the summer high season. Consider visiting in the fall, when the Kaibab National Forest erupts in vibrant colors.

Grand Canyon West is open year-round and less crowded outside the summer months.

Getting to the Grand Canyon

Most visitors to the Grand Canyon fly into Las Vegas or Phoenix. There’s also a small airport in Flagstaff, just an hour from the South Rim, and some North Rim travelers fly into Salt Lake City. No matter where you land, you’ll need to rent a car, as public transit is extremely limited in this part of the U.S.

Once you arrive at the Grand Canyon, you might need to park your car and take a shuttle bus to get around. Grand Canyon West is closed to private vehicles and operates a hop-on, hop-off shuttle around the park, while certain parts of the South Rim are only accessible by bus. A shuttle service makes the 4.5-hour trip between the North and South Rims; it’s convenient for rim-to-rim hikers. The North Rim is fully open to private vehicles except during the winter.

One fun alternative way to arrive at the South Rim is via the Grand Canyon Railway, which runs from Williams, Arizona, into the heart of the park, allowing for a half-day of exploring before returning in the afternoon.

Grand Canyon Lodging

The most convenient Grand Canyon lodging options are within the national park or Grand Canyon West rather than in nearby towns, but these options tend to book up quickly—sometimes almost a year in advance. When planning a trip to the Canyon, reserve your accommodations first. Staying within the national park will save you valuable time waiting to get in the entrance gates each day.

The South Rim section of Grand Canyon National Park is home to half a dozen lodges, including the venerable El Tovar, which dates back to 1905 and has hosted former presidents Theodore Roosevelt and Bill Clinton. Another option is the Bright Angel Lodge, situated at the top of the park’s most popular trail. There’s also an RV park near the main visitor center and two campgrounds.

If you can’t find lodging within the South Rim section of the park, there’s a handful of options in nearby Tusayan, as well as dozens of hotels (mostly chain motels) in Williams and Flagstaff, each a little more than an hour from the park entrance gates.

The North Rim has just two places to stay inside the park: the Grand Canyon Lodge, which offers motel rooms and cabins, and the North Rim Campground. If these are booked, consider the Jacob Lake Inn, 45 miles away, or head farther afield to Kanab, Utah, or Page, Arizona.

The most unique place to stay at Grand Canyon National Park is Phantom Ranch, a group of cabins located on the canyon floor. The only ways to get there are to hike or ride a mule down, and you’ll need to win a lottery in order to reserve a room. 

If you want to stay overnight within Grand Canyon West, you can book a cabin at Hualapai Ranch; each one features a front porch where you can relax and enjoy the desert views.

Grand Canyon Hikes

The simplest walk at Grand Canyon National Park is the Rim Trail, which stretches for 13—mostly flat—miles along the top of the South Rim. Much of it is paved and wheelchair-accessible, and you can enter and leave the path at any viewpoint.

If your fitness allows, try to hike at least part of the way into the Grand Canyon; you’ll get a completely different perspective than you do from the top.

The most popular South Rim trail into the canyon is the Bright Angel Trail, which is well-maintained and offers some shade along the way. Another good option is the South Kaibab Trail—it is a little steeper and has less shade but boasts slightly more dramatic views if you’re only doing part of the trail. While both of these trails go all the way to the bottom, you can easily transform each of them into a day hike by turning around at one of the mile markers and going back the way you came.

The North Rim offers a variety of day hikes ranging from less than a mile to about 10 miles round-trip. It’s possible to hike into the canyon from the North Rim on the North Kaibab Trail and back out via one of the trails on the South Rim (or vice versa); this is recommended only for fit, experienced hikers.

For information on all the trails listed above, see the day hiking information page on NPS.gov.

The National Park Service strongly recommends against hiking down to the river and back in a single day, even if you’re a veteran hiker. Instead, plan to overnight at Phantom Ranch or one of several backcountry campgrounds within the canyon, but know that reservations are required in advance.

Keep in mind that it usually takes twice as long to come back up the trail as it does to go down and temperatures at the bottom of the canyon can be up to 20 degrees higher than those at the top. Hundreds of hikers are rescued each year from the canyon due to dehydration, heat exhaustion, or injury.

Grand Canyon West offers just two hiking trails, one easy and one moderate, and neither goes into the canyon.

One intriguing Grand Canyon hike to consider is the 10-mile (each way) track to Havasu Falls, the famous turquoise cascade you’ve probably seen on your Instagram feed. It’s located on Native American land between the South Rim and Grand Canyon West. Reservations are required (and limited). To learn more, see the NPS website.

Mule Rides, Rafting Trips, and Helicopter Tours

When planning a trip to the Grand Canyon, don’t forget about other activities besides hiking, like riding a mule into the canyon. (Why a mule? They’re more sure-footed than horses.)

From the South Rim, you can ride a mule to the Colorado River and spend a night or two at Phantom Ranch or take a shorter two-hour ride along the rim. You can take one- or three-hour rides from the North Rim along the rim or part of the way into the canyon—book as far in advance as possible to guarantee yourself a spot.

Dreaming of rafting the Colorado River? You can take a guided trip in the national park with options from a half-day to more than two weeks, or plan your own trip with a permit from the National Park Service. To plan a one- or two-day rafting trip at Grand Canyon West, visit GrandCanyonWest.com.

Finally, one of the most incredible ways to view the Grand Canyon is from the air. Numerous companies operate helicopter tours over the canyon, including Grand Canyon Helicopters and Papillon.

General Grand Canyon Travel Tips

Stop by the visitor center as soon as you arrive—especially if you have limited time. Park rangers can help design an itinerary to maximize your visit, suggest hikes to suit your fitness level, and recommend the best sunrise and/or sunset viewpoints.

The desert heat can be deadly, so hikers should pack plenty of water and salty snacks. Bring a reusable bottle that you can fill up at water stations located throughout the national park. Start hiking early in the morning to avoid the midday sun. If you get a headache or start to feel dizzy or sick to your stomach, stop to rest and rehydrate.

The South Rim is located at 7,000 feet above sea level, and the North Rim is at nearly 8,300 feet. Some travelers may experience fatigue, headaches, or other symptoms of altitude sickness.

Stick to the trail. Not only does this protect the landscape, but it also protects you. Numerous tourists have died after falling from the rim of the canyon.

The most crowded viewpoints at the South Rim are those nearest the parking lots and bus stops. To avoid getting a hundred other people in every photo, walk along the Rim Trail in either direction. Often, you can snap great shots along the trail or find your way to a less congested viewpoint.

Follow Sarah Schlichter on Twitter @TravelEditor for more travel tips and inspiration.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2017. It has been updated to reflect the most current information. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them.

The post Planning a Trip to the Grand Canyon appeared first on SmarterTravel.

What people need to understand is what happens when these initiatives bring too many people.  That’s when we get overtourism, and protests like the one in Barcelona. 

What is Overtourism? 

The World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism) defines overtourism as “the impact of tourism on a destination, or parts thereof, that excessively influences perceived quality of life of citizens and/or quality of visitor experiences in a negative way.” This can mean different things to different locations:  crowded streets, short-term rentals driving up housing costs, overcrowded landmarks, and even the environment and land being negatively affected by the hordes of tourists trouncing around. 

What Causes Overtourism? 

There are many causes of overtourism, and locations can become an overtourism hotbed due to one or many factors. Some of the most common causes of overtourism include: 

Low-cost Travel 

Budget airlines offering cheap deals to a destination can cause tourists to flock to areas that have not been traditionally visited. This is especially true within Europe, where many low-cost airlines encourage travelers to go to places not normally visited (like Croatia and Barcelona). Budget airline CheapoAir has started suggesting alternate destinations for people to fly, rather than the more alluring destinations suffering from overtourism. 

Social Media Influence

Social media has driven tourists to destinations they may not have visited in the past, often because of the idyllic way influencers portray them. Many people want to recreate a photo they saw on social media, and because of this, specific spots get overcrowded with everyone who wants the same shot. In her book “Overtourism,” Ulrike Gretzel explains “Social media not only frame destination images, they also influence the relative importance of the destination in the visuals and the visit experience.” She also explains that “Social media not only heighten motivations to travel, they also foster travel to specific destinations and influence behaviours at destinations.” 

Lack of Regulation

Many destinations have begun setting tourist restrictions to curb the negative effects of too many visitors. Several have restricted cruise ship access, which often brings tourists in by the droves. Some places have also started implementing a tourist tax, usually an extra tax on hotel bills. Perhaps the most famous spot that has started regulating tourism is Maya Bay on Ko Phi Phi Leh island in Thailand, made famous by The Beach, the 2000 film starring Leonardo DiCaprio. Thanks to environmental damage, the bay has shut down temporarily from time to time since 2018, so that the ecosystem can recover from tourists. Some areas, like Machu Picchu, Barcelona, and Amsterdam have no regulations and struggle with consistent overtourism. 

Economic Incentives 

One of the most obvious reasons for overtourism is the economic impact tourists have on an area. When people travel, they spend money, and that money is too good for governments to pass up, so they often encourage visitors to come. According to the World Travel and Tourism Council, “In 2019, prior to the pandemic, Travel & Tourism (including its direct, indirect, and induced impacts) accounted for 10.5% of all jobs (334 million) and 10.4% of global GDP (US$ 10.3 trillion). Meanwhile, international visitor spending amounted to US$ 1.91 trillion in 2019.” In 2023, Travel & Tourism accounted for 9.1% of global GDP. That is a huge number, and it’s no wonder governments want a part of it. Once they start advertising, however, they have to ensure they have the infrastructure to handle all the extra people who will start to flock there. 

Impacts of Overtourism

Environmental Damage

Pollution

Increased waste generation, air and water pollution from transportation and infrastructure development, and damage to fragile ecosystems can all result from overtourism. Discarded plastic from water bottles and food packaging can pollute waterways and harm wildlife. Traffic congestion from tourist vehicles can lead to air pollution, especially in areas with limited air circulation. Construction of new hotels, roads, and other infrastructure to accommodate tourists can disrupt natural habitats and increase erosion. In some cases, sewage treatment facilities may not be able to keep up with the surge in waste generated by tourists, leading to water pollution.

Resource Depletion

Overtourism can lead to the overconsumption of water, energy, and other natural resources. Tourists often use more water than locals, for showering, flushing toilets, and watering lawns and gardens. Energy consumption can also rise as tourists use air conditioning, heating, and appliances in their hotel rooms. In some areas like Sao Paolo and Cape Town, tourism can put a strain on water supplies, leading to water shortages.

Habitat Destruction

The development of new tourist infrastructure, such as hotels, resorts, and golf courses, can lead to deforestation, habitat fragmentation, and loss of biodiversity. This can have a negative impact on wildlife populations and ecosystems. For example, the construction of a new beach resort may destroy the natural habitat of birds, turtles, and other wildlife. 

Socio-cultural Issues

Conflicts between Locals and Tourists

As previously mentioned, overtourism can lead to conflicts between locals and tourists, like the one this summer in Barcelona.  This can be caused by competition for resources, such as water and noise pollution from tourist activity. Tourists may also disrupt traditional ways of life, by making noise late at night or dressing in ways that are considered offensive by locals. It can also be as simple as your favorite restaurant that never used to have a long wait is now impossible to get into thanks to all of the tourists going there. 

Erosion of Local Culture

When a destination becomes too tourist-oriented, it can lead to the erosion of local culture. This can happen when traditions are commercialized or exploited to cater to tourist expectations. Local festivals may become more about selling souvenirs to tourists than about celebrating cultural traditions.

Increased Crime Rates

Overtourism can also lead to an increase in crime rates. This can be because transient populations can create opportunities for petty crime, such as theft and vandalism. In some cases, tourists may be targeted by criminals because they are seen as easy prey.

Economic Consequences

Rising Living Costs for Locals

Overtourism can lead to rising living costs for locals. This can happen when there is an increased demand for housing and other goods and services. As tourism becomes the dominant industry in a destination, other industries may decline, leading to a less diversified economy. This can make it difficult for locals to find jobs outside of the tourism sector.

Inflated Prices

Businesses in tourist destinations may inflate prices for goods and services. This can make it difficult for locals to afford to live in their own communities. Tourists may also be willing to pay higher prices for goods and services, which can lead to inflation.

Economic Inequality

The benefits of tourism may not be evenly distributed among the local population. Wealthy landowners and business owners may be the ones who benefit most from tourism, while low-wage workers may see little or no improvement in their standard of living. This can exacerbate existing inequalities in a destination.

Deteriorated Visitor Experience

Overcrowding

One of the major factors of overtourism is overcrowding at popular tourist destinations. This can make it difficult for tourists to enjoy the places they are visiting. Overcrowded beaches, museums, and other attractions can be unpleasant and frustrating for both tourists and locals. 

Long Wait Times

Overcrowding can also lead to long wait times for transportation, attractions, and services. Tourists may have to wait in line for hours to get into a popular attraction or to take a taxi, making for a less-than-fun vacation.

Diminished Authenticity

When a destination becomes too tourist-oriented, it can lose its sense of authenticity. This can happen when local businesses and culture are replaced by generic tourist shops and restaurants. Tourists who are looking for a unique and authentic experience may be disappointed by what they find in overtouristed destinations.

Solution to Overtourism

Addressing overtourism requires a multifaceted approach. Tailored solutions specific to each destination are essential, considering factors like local culture and economy. The tourism industry must contribute by distributing tourists to less crowded areas and investing in sustainable practices. Governments have a crucial role in managing visitor numbers through regulations, such as capacity limits and tourist taxes. Tourists can contribute by choosing less popular destinations, respecting local cultures, and minimizing environmental impact. Ultimately, a collaborative effort involving destinations, businesses, governments, and tourists is necessary to effectively address overtourism.

Top 10 Spots Suffering from Overtourism

Venice, Italy

Famous for its intricate canal system and historical architecture, Venice has become overwhelmed by tourists. The city’s fragile infrastructure is struggling to support the influx of visitors, leading to overcrowding, erosion of the city’s fabric, and a decline in quality of life for residents.

Instead try: Burano, Italy, a nearby island offering a more authentic Venetian experience with less crowds.

Barcelona, Spain

This vibrant city has experienced a rapid increase in tourism, putting immense pressure on its resources. Noise pollution, overcrowding, and rising living costs for locals have become significant issues. The city’s unique culture and architecture are at risk of being overshadowed by mass tourism.

Instead try: Tarragona, Spain,  a coastal town with a relaxed atmosphere and rich cultural heritage.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Known for its liberal atmosphere, canals, and cultural attractions, Amsterdam has become a magnet for tourists. Overcrowding, especially in the city center, has led to issues such as noise pollution, litter, and strain on local infrastructure.

Instead try: Utrecht, Netherlands, for a a more authentic Dutch experience with fewer crowds and a vibrant cultural scene.

Bali, Indonesia

Once a serene island paradise, Bali has transformed into a bustling tourist hotspot. The influx of visitors has caused significant environmental damage, including pollution, deforestation, and coral reef degradation. Cultural erosion and conflicts between locals and tourists have also emerged.

Instead try: Flores, Indonesia,  for a quieter and more authentic Indonesian experience.

Santorini, Greece

Renowned for its stunning caldera views and whitewashed buildings, Santorini has become synonymous with luxury tourism. Overcrowding, particularly during peak season, has placed immense pressure on the island’s infrastructure and resources. The authentic Greek island experience is increasingly difficult to find amidst the mass tourism.

Instead try: Amorgos, Greece,  for stunning landscapes, traditional Greek charm and a more relaxed atmosphere.

Maya Bay, Thailand

Made famous by the movie “The Beach,” Maya Bay experienced a rapid surge in popularity. The delicate marine ecosystem suffered severe damage due to the influx of boats and tourists. The bay has been closed indefinitely to recover, highlighting the devastating impact of uncontrolled tourism.

Instead try: Phi Phi Don, a less crowded and equally as beautiful beach. 

Mount Everest, Nepal

The world’s highest peak has become increasingly commercialized, attracting a growing number of climbers. The resulting overcrowding has led to traffic jams, pollution, and safety hazards, compromising the mountain’s pristine environment.

Instead try: Annapurna, Nepal, for a less crowded and equally rewarding mountaineering experience.

Machu Picchu, Peru

This iconic Inca citadel faces immense pressure from the number of visitors. The delicate ruins are at risk of damage from foot traffic, while the local community struggles to cope with the influx of tourists.

Instead try: Choquequirao, Peru, a lesser-known Inca site which offers breathtaking views and a less crowded alternative to Machu Picchu.

Great Barrier Reef, Australia

Beyond the threats of climate change, the Great Barrier Reef is also impacted by overtourism. Boat traffic, pollution from sunscreen, and damage caused by careless tourists contribute to the reef’s decline.

Instead try: Ningaloo Reef in Western Australia, known for its diverse marine life and stunning coral formations.

Grand Canyon National Park, USA

This natural wonder attracts millions of visitors annually. Overcrowding, traffic congestion, and waste management have become significant challenges, impacting both the park’s environment and visitor experience.

Instead try: Zion National Park, Utah for equally impressive natural landscapes and fewer crowds.

The post What is Overtourism? (And What Are Overtourism Destinations?) appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Also known as volunteer vacations, voluntourism typically involves a short-term commitment to service as part of a trip that also includes sightseeing or other tourism activities. For the many travelers who don’t have time to devote to longer-term volunteer opportunities such as the Peace Corps, voluntourism offers the chance to make a difference in smaller ways.

Unfortunately, there’s a growing body of evidence that many voluntourism trips don’t actually make much positive impact—and might even cause harm. Read on to learn what to watch out for when choosing a voluntourism project.

The Benefits of Voluntourism

The main purpose of a voluntourism trip seems obvious: to help the community you’re visiting. But if you’re only volunteering for a few days, it’s important not to overestimate how much of a difference you can realistically make.

Josh Powell, Chief Executive Officer at the nonprofit Development Gateway, says that volunteers with specialized skills tend to make the most impact: “Most of the effective groups that I know of help to match individuals with scarce skills, not easily found in the local communities (engineering, medicine, information technology), with acute needs locally. Think Doctors Without Borders, Engineers Without Borders, etc. If you have an advanced/technical skill set, consider finding organizations that function in this way. If you are bringing nothing but good intentions, just be aware that the greatest (and potentially only) contribution you are making to the local community is the money that you spend.”

Leila de Bruyne, founder of an educational program in Kenya called Flying Kites, makes a similar argument in an interview with Boston public radio station WBUR: “Unless you’re a surgeon or a billionaire, you’re not going to have a meaningful, transformative impact on the communities that you’re working with, but they might have an impact on you, and that’s where the opportunity comes to actually make something of it.”

The most effective voluntourism projects combine the small contributions of numerous volunteers into an effort that is meaningful and sustainable in the long term, but for each individual traveler, the biggest impact of your trip might be on your own behavior.

Volunteering gives you a chance to learn about a place and interact with the locals in a way that simply lying on a beach does not—and it can be fun too! Your encounters might even change your understanding of the world. Someone who’s been impacted by a voluntourism experience might go home and take further action—donating to or raising funds for a charitable organization, advocating for political change, or even volunteering in a community closer to home. In this way a voluntourism experience can have ripple effects for years to come.

The Dangers of Voluntourism

Many well-meaning travelers show up, volunteer for a few days and go home convinced that they’ve made a difference in the world, but their presence may sometimes hurt, not help the community they’re trying to serve. Writer and entrepreneur Pippa Biddle shares the following anecdote from a trip to Tanzania:

“Our mission while at the orphanage was to build a library. Turns out that we, a group of highly educated private boarding school students, were so bad at the most basic construction work that each night the men had to take down the structurally unsound bricks we had laid and rebuild the structure so that, when we woke up in the morning, we would be unaware of our failure. … Basically, we failed at the sole purpose of our being there. It would have been more cost effective, stimulative of the local economy, and efficient for the orphanage to take our money and hire locals to do the work, but there we were trying to build straight walls without a level.”

Volunteering at orphanages can be even more insidious, says Powell: “Orphanages are likely the most damaging voluntourism option you could choose. … Many orphanages often verge on child trafficking (or go all the way there).” Powell also notes that children at orphanages can easily get attached to volunteers who then leave them, creating a cycle of emotional damage.

One quality that makes voluntourism trips appealing to many travelers—the limited time commitment—is also an inherent weakness. Most voluntourists don’t stay long enough to fully comprehend the complex problems affecting the local population, much less to help solve them in a meaningful way. Without a nuanced understanding of what you’re committing to, you might end up doing busy work that makes you feel good about yourself but doesn’t actually make any impact.

What Should I Ask Before Booking a Voluntourism Trip?

To avoid some of these pitfalls, it’s important to do your homework before signing up for a voluntourism program. Powell recommends asking the following questions about the organization you plan to work with:

• Do the activities during my trip displace the potential for local labor to deliver the same services at a lower cost, with more efficiency and while creating jobs for the local population—or would the work not be possible without volunteers?
• Where does the organization get its staff, and how are they paid/treated?
• What is the organization’s relationship with the local community—do they work collaboratively or has the organization “inserted itself”? Do the locals help decide which projects are prioritized and how they’re implemented?
• What are the organization’s long-term intentions? For example, are they building up new infrastructure (and if so, are they using local labor), and do they plan to sustain that infrastructure long-term?

We also recommend looking at the organization’s finances and checking out exactly where your program fee goes. Research how long the organization has been around and whether the bulk of its revenue is put back into the community.

Try to find as much information as possible about the organization beyond its own website. Have past volunteers left reviews on sites such as VolunteerForever.com? If it’s based in the U.S., is the organization well rated by CharityNavigator.org? Has it won any responsible tourism awards?

Finally, be sure to ask yourself a few questions, including why you’re undertaking this project, what skills you bring to the table and whether your presence would have more impact than a monetary donation.

You can find more useful questions in this volunteer checklist.

Which Voluntourism Projects Should I Avoid?

As noted above, volunteering at an orphanage usually does more harm than good, and construction projects aren’t recommended for travelers without experience. (Even if you do have construction skills, it’s likely that local laborers could do the job just as easily.)

Many people are also moved to volunteer in the aftermath of natural disasters such as earthquakes or tsunamis, but unless you have very specific skills (such as medicine and/or disaster response), you are more likely to get in the way than you are to help. In these cases, a donation is your best bet.

It’s also important not to take on responsibilities that you wouldn’t feel qualified to do at home. Says de Bruyne: “Red flags should come up if your 16-year-old high school kid is going to be involved in sensitive social work, or acting in a clinic as a nurse, or … taking over a whole classroom. I think that you should be working to support a staff that exists. And if you’re not, and you’re taking on a different role, then to me that would be alarming and not something that I would want to participate in.”

So where can you start if you’re looking for projects that won’t do harm? The Guardian recommends several organizations that do meaningful and ethical work, including Travel-PeopleandPlaces.co.uk, BlueVentures.org and GVIusa.com.

Other Voluntourism Tips

Prepare for your trip by learning as much as you can about the place you’re visiting, including a few phrases of the local language, the region’s cultural norms and the background of the project to which you’re contributing. This will help you acclimatize more quickly and make the most of your limited time.

Respect the dignity and privacy of the people you meet. Says Powell, “If a stranger walked up to your child and began taking pictures in the streets of New York, you would likely feel uncomfortable and violated—yet many think it is just fine to pick up a stranger’s child and snap selfies when traveling in developing countries.” Don’t take photos of anyone without permission, and keep in mind that your experience could easily turn exploitative if you’re more concerned with posting to Facebook than carrying out your volunteer activities.

Beyond Voluntourism: How Else Can I Help?

Powell argues that unless you have skills that fit the specific needs of a community, making a donation to an effective grassroots organization will likely bring more benefit than your presence. He recommends Kiva.org and GlobalGiving.org as two websites that allow individuals to donate directly to projects and organizations doing good work around the world.

Powell also notes that any vacation you take can benefit the local economy, even if you’re not volunteering. “Spend money!” he says. “It may not give the ‘warm fuzzy feeling’ that you might get from driving some nails or teaching English, but think of what you would prefer in their circumstances. Support local artisans, kids who ‘guard’ your vehicle while it’s parked, maids in your hotel room, etc.

“And don’t negotiate too aggressively. That 20 percent you are negotiating off your taxi fare or a souvenir for your niece is 1/3 of a latte to you, but may be a sizable portion of net wages for the person across from you. There is nothing wrong with haggling, but fully ‘winning’ the negotiation is an often hollow victory.”

For the most economic benefit, follow the principles of socially responsible travel, including staying in locally owned hotels, eating at locally owned restaurants and buying directly from local artisans and shops.

This story was originally published in 2017 and has been updated to reflect the most recent information.

The post Voluntourism: Does It Really Help? appeared first on SmarterTravel.

How would you rate your travel sustainability? Here are 12 sustainable travel tips—including shopping local, getting off the beaten path, and offsetting your carbon footprint—to help you reduce the impact of your travels. This generation of travelers—and the next, and the next—will thank you for it.

Buy from Local Artists and Eat Local Food

Farmers’ markets are a great place to find locally produced art and food. Buying locally supports the economy and—because the goods haven’t travelled far to get to you—helps keep the carbon footprint low.

Support Businesses That Support Local Sustainability  

Before booking any tour, ask in advance about group size (smaller has less of an impact), whether locals guide the tours, and how the operator gives back to the community and prevents harming ecosystems. When you visit the Amazon, for example, hire a tour company that helps support indigenous communities most directly affected by deforestation. Wherever you go, look for locally owned hotels that compost and recycle or use alternative energy sources. This list of environmentally friendly tour operators and hotels is a great place to start when you’re considering how to travel sustainably.

Make a Donation to Help Preserve Natural and Historic Sites

Instead of leaving a few coins during your visit, consider a more significant contribution. If you’re hiking Borneo, for instance, paying more than your park fee or hiring a sustainable tour operator will help convince the government that preserving the forest, rather than exploiting it, is good for business and may prompt conservation. Donating to the ESCALA Initiative helps poor communities leverage their historic sites responsibly so they can create self-reliance and economic stability to thrive.

Skip Activities That Negatively Impact the Environment or Community

As a result of climate change, many ski towns in the European Alps whose economies rely on winter tourism are now overusing snowmaking machines. Unfortunately, these machines only contribute to the escalation of global warming. Visit the Alps in summer for hiking instead, or find an alternate ski destination with natural snow. If you’re a fan of animal attractions, do a bit of investigating and visit only those that are true sanctuaries with high standards.

Pay a Little Extra if it Means Having Less of an Impact

For your next road trip, rent a hybrid or electric car. On your next cruise, try a smaller ship, which has a significantly smaller carbon footprint and produces less waste than a 6,000-passenger behemoth. It often doesn’t cost much more to travel more sustainably, but it can make a big difference in your personal impact.

Spend More Time in Less Touristy Attractions

Overdevelopment and overcrowding can be as threatening as climate change in the most popular destinations around the world. Spain’s Costa del Sol and Cambodia’s Angkor Wat temple complex are only a couple of examples of places where tourism’s footprint could cause irreparable damage. Seek alternative destinations. Instead of joining the hoards in Machu Picchu, visit the similar but lesser-known “lost” Inca city of Choquequirao. Instead of Ibiza or Majorca, go to Sardinia or Crete—larger islands that can handle more visitors.

Bike or Use Public Transit Instead of Driving or Hailing a Taxi

Bike-sharing programs in more than 1,000 cities around the world make it easier and cheaper than ever to explore urban destinations. Seeing a new destination by bike, public transit, or on foot reduces your impact and offers more opportunities for interacting with locals. Touring Florida’s everglades? Go minimal impact with a guided swamp walk.

Switch to Reef-Safe, Oxybenzone-Free Sunscreen

Harmful chemicals from sunscreen worn by swimmers and snorkelers contribute to the destruction of the Great Barrier Reef and other reefs around the world. Oxybenzone damages adult coral and deforms and kills new coral, reducing its ability to regenerate. Choose oxybenzone-free products or wear protective clothing when swimming and snorkeling.

Volunteer During Your Trip

See your travel destination from an entirely different perspective. As a volunteer rather than a traveler, you’ll learn more about the place you’re visiting and have a chance to be part of the sustainability solution. Consider participating in a conservation project or another cause that makes your heart sing. Check Transitions Abroad and Idealist for links to some organizations to consider for your volunteer vacation. But make sure your volunteer efforts will be helpful, not harmful, before you decide where to go.

Bring Your Own Water Bottle

According to the Sierra Club, the billions of plastic water bottles that end up in landfills each year will take up to 1,000 years to decompose. Invest in a stainless steel reusable bottle for your next trip. If the tap water in your destination isn’t safe to drink, purify it with a SteriPEN or water purification tablets. Another option: Pick up a gallon (or larger container) of water to keep in your room.

Offset Your Carbon Footprint

Contribute to a carbon offsetting company and, on your behalf, someone will plant a tree or contribute to another carbon sequestration project that can absorb the toxic carbon dioxide emitted for every mile you travel, netting a zero-sum total. Some popular destinations even have their own offset programs.

Stick to the Trail

It’s tempting to step over the roped-off area to get the perfect photo for Instagram. But when millions of tourists follow suit, the effect is substantial. Whether you’re at a UNESCO World Heritage site or a local park, preserve the land by staying on the marked trails. Many ecosystems are so delicate that even a couple steps across the greenery or light brush against the coral can cause irreparable damage.

All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2019. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

The post 12 Ways to Travel Sustainably and Still Have a Great Vacation appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Mexico is a vast country, with heaps of beautiful and interesting places to see, and some 28 million Americans safely travel there each year. To help you plan your own trip, I’ve gathered some of the safest places to visit in Mexico, complete with information on why you should go and where to stay.

The Safest Places in Mexico

Keep in mind that incidents can happen even in the safest places in Mexico, and destinations that don’t appear on this list could still be great spots for a vacation. No matter where you go while traveling abroad, you’ll want to follow common-sense rules such as drinking only in moderation, getting a cab instead of wandering around after dark, and leaving your valuables at home.

Mexico City

Despite a longstanding reputation as a dangerous city to visit, Mexico City only has an advisory to exercise increased caution, and for good reason; the downtown core in particular is considered quite safe, and the city has numerous attractions for visitors—including street art, colorful markets, and more than 150 museums.

Where to Stay: The small, beautifully decorated Nima Local House Hotel is one of the best luxury hotel options in the city. For a more affordable option, consider the Chillout Flat Bed & Breakfast, which earns plaudits for friendly service and homemade granola.

Nima Local House

Chillout Flat B&B

Tulum

As Playa del Carmen has been the site of some troubling violence in the past, the coastal town of Tulum to the south may be a safer alternative. It is also less touristy than other resort towns on the Yucatan Peninsula, offering well-preserved ruins of the former Mayan city walls and other historic structures right in town. The State Department has explicitly stated there are no restrictions on travel to Tulum or to Chichen Itza, the magnificent archaeological site just an hour up the road.

Where to Stay: Guests appreciate the clean, comfortable rooms and fast Wi-Fi at the centrally located Posada Luna del Sur.

Book Now

Huatulco

A beach town located in Oaxaca to the southwest of Puerto Escondido, Huatulco offers tons of water activities such as snorkeling and scuba diving, some nearby surf spots, and tours of coffee farms to boot. Huatulco is considered one of the safest places in Mexico.

Where to Stay: For an indulgent resort experience you can’t do much better than Secrets Huatulco Resort & Spa, where amenities include multiple swimming pools and tennis courts, yoga classes, watersports, and nine restaurants.

Book Now

Merida and Valladolid

Gerardo Tanaka Pacheco, Senior Account Executive for MSL Group, the public relations firm for VisitMexico.com, recommends these two towns as great alternatives to other nearby tourist hot spots. “A lot of people go to Playa del Carmen and Tulum, but on the Yucatan Peninsula there are these two beautiful colonial cities that are so welcoming, colorful, and full of traditions that travelers won’t regret visiting them,” he says.

Merida is a walking-friendly town that is connected to Chichen Itza by a toll road, which is considered the safest way to travel in Mexico if you are driving. The Mayan influence remains strong here, and the area has its own style of cuisine that diverges considerably from what you will find in other parts of Mexico.

Midway between Merida and Cancun is Valladolid, a colorful and friendly city that’s within easy driving distance of several beautiful cenotes.

Where to Stay: In Merida, consider snagging a poolside room at the Luz En Yucatan. In Valladolid, you can’t go wrong at the centrally located Hotel Posada San Juan.

Luz En Yucatan

Hotel Posada San Juan

Bacalar

Pacheco says that Bacalar, also on the Yucatan Peninsula, is “an amazing place, kind of unknown and definitely uncrowded. This is one of my favorite secrets spots in Mexico; the lagoon there is unbelievable.”

Called the Lake of Seven Colors, the lagoon stretches for 42 kilometers and is fed by underground rivers. Like Todos Santos mentioned below, Bacalar holds the official designation as a “Pueblo Magico,” or Magical Town, due in large part to the lagoon. In addition to being one of the safest places in Mexico, Bacalar is also very affordable.

Where to Stay: At the Bacalar Lagoon Resort, you can get a view of the lake right from your cabana.

Book Now

Campeche

Another UNESCO World Heritage Site located on the western coast of the Yucatan Peninsula, Campeche is a walled Spanish colonial city that has been superbly restored. The walled center is somewhat of a museum piece, but the life of the town surrounding it might even be the main attraction. There are also significant Mayan ruins in the state of Campeche, of which the city is the capital; these aren’t as well known as the famous ruins to the east, and as such they’re less crowded.

Where to Stay: Try for a balcony room or suite at the modestly priced Hotel Socaire.

Book Now

Queretaro

Queretaro’s streets are a wondrous mix of old and very old, as grid-like Spanish streets connect to the pre-Hispanic winding lanes from the time of the Otomi. From rock climbing and art galleries to architecture sightseeing, there is a ton to do in this central Mexican city.

Where to Stay: La Casa del Atrio, across from the Museo de Arte, is both popular and affordable.

Book Now

Todos Santos

This surf town in Baja California Sur features world-class waves and lots of natural beauty—and it’s just far enough north of touristy Cabo San Lucas to offer respite from the crowds. Todos Santos is slowly becoming more popular, but its stone streets and uncrowded beaches have earned it the official Pueblo Magico designation.

Where to Stay: La Poza Boutique Hotel & Spa has a fantastic oceanfront location at very reasonable rates.

Book Now

The post The 8 Safest Places in Mexico for Travelers appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Download Our Ultimate Hiking Packing List

Don’t hit the trails without our editable hiking trip packing list.

Hiking Essentials: Gear

Backpack: A good backpack is key to a comfortable hiking trip. The right backpack for you will depend on personal fit and the length of your trip (along with how much you’ll be carrying.) For a short hike, pick a backpack that’s lightweight and big enough to hold all your hiking essentials, but not so big that you’re tempted to overpack. The Hyperlite Mountain Gear Daybreak Ultralight Daypack is one of the lightest daypacks out there, weighing in at just 1.26 pounds. The light weight doesn’t mean that important features are skimped on—it still has comfortable padded straps, a hip belt that can be stashed away, a water-resistant exterior, and a padded back panel. Keep your backpack organized with Hyperlite Mountain Gear’s Stuff Sacks  which are equally lightweight. Bonus: All Hyperlite gear is hand-made in Maine.

For a longer trip, we love Osprey’s Eja backpack, which comes in a variety of sizes. This backpack can hold a ton without adding extra weight (it weighs just over 2.5 lbs.). The Eja features Osprey’s trademarked AirSpeed suspension system that allows for maximum airflow between your back and the pack, keeping you cool instead of sweaty.

Water Bottle: If you don’t want to carry a ton of water on a long hike, or just want to be prepared in case of an emergency, the Lifestraw Peak Series is a good choice for a water bottle. The included filter removes bacteria, parasites, and microplastics, so that you can safely and quickly drink from any water source you find. The soft bottle is lightweight, easy to pack, and collapsible when not in use.

Portable Battery: Don’t be stuck with a dead phone in an emergency. The Biolite Charge 80 PD won’t take up too much room in your pack and can charge anything from a smartphone to a 13″ laptop.

Trekking Poles: A good set of hiking poles can help save your knees from strain on the descent, and prevent slips and falls on tough terrain or muddy trails. I like LEKI’s Cressida FX Carbon poles, which quickly break down to a packable size, making them easy to store in your backpack when you’re not using them. With a hollow shaft made from a lightweight carbon fiber, these poles won’t weigh you down, coming in at a mere 8.64 ounces.

Hiking Essentials: Footwear

Hiking Shoes: Low-top hiking shoes are lighter weight and more nimble than hiking boots. Danner’s Trail 2650 GTX shoes are designed to comfortably carry you no matter what distance you’re hiking. Even though they weigh just 18 oz. per pair, they are still waterproof, so you can trample through mud and streams without worry.

Hiking Boots: Opt for hiking boots over shoes when you’re facing a longer, tougher hike, or for those times when you’ll be carrying a heavier pack—like on an overnight trip. Hiking boots offer more ankle support, as well as additional protection from bites, scrapes, and water. I love Salewa’s Pedroc Pro Powertex Hiking Boots which focus on three important factors: comfort, protection, and lightness. Weighing an impressive 290 grams per shoe, these boots won’t slow you down on the trail.

Hiking Essentials: Clothing

Hiking Tights: Tights are a tempting choice for hikes. You probably already own something similar to these super-flexible leggings in your wardrobe for running or yoga, but a hiking version are designed to withstand the rigors of an intense hiking trail. Fjallraven’s Abisko Trekking Tights are tough enough for hiking thanks to a super durable four-way stretch fabric that has extra reinforcement over the rear and knees to protect your skin when you’re scrambling over rocks or sitting on the ground. Plus, unlike most leggings, these trekking tights come with plenty of pockets and are available in a men’s version as well.

Socks: Good socks are the key to comfortable hiking. They keep your feet dry, prevent blisters, and provide cushioning and warmth. These socks from Smartwool are made from upcycled nylon and merino wool, with a padded sock cushion for extra relief.

Hiking Pants: For serious backcountry hikes you’ll want some heavy-duty hiking pants, like Arcteryx’s Gamme LT Pant. These pants are lightweight, durable, and wind and water resistant. These pants are specially designed for women with a lower adjustable waist and a slim feminine silhouette.

Base Layer: For cold weather hikes, add a layer underneath your hiking pants with lululemon’s Fast and Free Tight, which are made from patented Nulux fabric that’s quick-drying and sweat-wicking, yet designed to feel like you’re not wearing anything at all. For trail running or less-intense hikes that don’t involve scrambling these can be worn alone.

Sunglasses: Enjoying the view at the summit means protecting your eyes with sunglasses like these options from Maui Jim. Opt for their wrap-around frames for full eye protection and scratch-resistant lenses to handle whatever the hiking trail throws at you.

Hiking Underwear: Your favorite delicates might be comfortable, but they aren’t immune from the wear of lengthy hiking trips. Look for underwear that’s moisture-wicking and odor-resistant, like these pairs from ExOfficio for both women and men. For women, Patagonia’s Switchback Sports Bra is a soft and supportive option that’s also quick-drying and won’t cause chafing.

Hiking Shirts: Smartwool’s Merino 150 Base Layer Micro Stripe Short Sleeve tops for both women and men can be worn alone or layered for cooler days, and merino wool fabric means it won’t smell, even on a longer backpacking trip. For warmer days, Patagonia Capilene Lightweight T-Shirts for women and men are an ultra-light option that’s moisture-wicking, breathable and features patented Polygiene for odor control.

Hiking Tanks: For ultra-hot days (or hikes where you want to look good in the summit photo), Krimson Klover’s Cora Sleeveless Graphic Top is a fun option. Made from a cooling cotton/spandex fabric, the tank is available in a variety of fun colors and graphics (we like the Explore mountain option).

Hiking Shorts: For hot trail days, Helly Hansen’s Technical Trail Shorts are designed to keep you cool and dry, thanks to a moisture-wicking fabric. These lightweight shorts offer plenty of stretch so you can scramble over anything in your path, and a zippered back pocket keeps your valuables secure.

Jacket: Even if it looks like it’s going to be a warm day, packing a jacket is always a good idea on hikes, especially ones with a summit above the tree line (where it can be significantly colder/windier than it is  at the base). The weather can change quickly: Prepare by bringing along a lightweight jacket like the Patagonia Nano Puff Hoody, available for both women and men, which delivers an impressive amount of warmth and wind-resistance for the weight.

Hat: You’ll want a hat to keep the sun off of your face, but a regular ball caps can get very sweaty after a while. Get a hat that’s made for activities and wicks away moisture, like Arc’teryx’s Calvus Cap.

Gloves: On chilly fall hikes or cool summer mornings, a pair of lightweight, waterproof gloves are essential. These picks for both men and women will keep you warm and dry, even in a sudden downpour.

Gaiters: Although not very fashionable, gaiters, waterproof covers that slip on over your boots to protect your ankles and calves from rain and mud, are very practical. I like this pair from Outdoor Research which easily slip on and off.

Hiking Essentials: Miscellaneous

• Sunscreen
• Bug Spray
• Tissues
• Hand Sanitizer
• Emergency kit
• Blister bandaids
• Lipbalm with SPF
• Hair tie

Snacks: Peanut butter sandwiches, bananas, and trail mix are also good options for packable sustenance.

Caroline Morse Teel loves to hike, especially in New England. Follow Caroline on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline for photos from the summit.

Some review products are sent to us free of charge and with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions, positive and negative, and will never accept compensation to review a product.

The post What to Pack for Hiking: 38 Essentials appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Here are some of the most popular destinations that have banned non-biodegradable sunscreens, and how you can switch to a responsible alternative.

U.S. Virgin Islands

In 2019, the U.S. Virgin Islands announced a ban on chemical sunscreens that are harmful to coral reefs, outlawing all imports and sales of sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate. The bill was signed into law in July 2019, and its terms went into effect in March 2020.

Hawaii

The reef-rich state of Hawaii voted to ban the sale of sunscreens that contain the reef-damaging chemicals oxybenzone and octinoxate as of 2021. Experts have said the move is an effort to put pressure on sunscreen manufacturers to better label and produce natural sunscreens that use equally effective zinc oxide, which doesn’t harm reefs.

“In my lifetime, our planet has lost about half its coral reefs. We’ve got to take action to make sure we can protect the other half as best we can because we know that time is against us,” said Hawaii Senator Chris Lee. The ban doesn’t include cosmetic products like SPF makeup, or sunscreens prescribed by a doctor for medical reasons.

Key West, Florida

Key West, Florida—the home of the largest coral reef in the continental United States—followed Hawaii in enacting a non-biodegradable sunscreen ban on its businesses. As of 2021, no stores in Key West can carry sunscreens that contain the reef-damaging chemicals.

Key West leaders have said they hope the move will spread awareness about the issue and encourage travelers to buy natural sunscreens that work just as well. “There are thousands of sunscreens out there, and we have one reef,” Key West Mayor Teri Johnston said of the move. “And we have an opportunity to do one small thing to protect that. I believe it’s our obligation.”

Bonaire

In 2018, the Caribbean island of Bonaire unanimously voted to ban the sale of reef-killing sunscreens in its stores by 2021. Now, any sunscreens containing the ingredient oxybenzone are off-limits on the island. Scientists studying the effects of oxybenzone and octinoxate on reefs have conducted research in the Caribbean and said “about 90 percent of the reefs in the Caribbean have disappeared since 1980.”

Palau

But it’s not just the U.S. and Caribbean banning harsh sunscreens—parts of the Pacific are starting to follow suit. In 2020, the archipelago nation of Palau became the first country to enact a sunscreen ban. Palau lawmakers have said businesses could be fined up to $1,000 for selling non-biodegradable sunscreens.

“The power to confiscate sunscreens should be enough to deter their non-commercial use, and these provisions walk a smart balance between educating tourists and scaring them away,” former Palau President Tommy Remengesau said of the change.

Mexican Vacation Spots

While there are many popular vacation spots in Mexico where typical sunscreen is accepted, many natural preserves require visitors to stick to reef-safe, biodegradable options. Popular cenote swimming holes in the Riviera Maya that are home to copious animal life typically require visitors to only use natural sunscreens. Ecotourism preserves and natural water parks like Xel Ha, Xcaret Park, Garrafon Natural Reef Park, and similar spots in Cozumel and Playa del Carmen have banned the use of chemical sunscreens from their parks.

How to Find Natural Sunscreen

Once you’re at your destination, resorts and shops can (and will) charge a pretty penny for natural sunscreens. Stock up before you go to avoid the price gouge, and order online to ensure you get the best price. Avoid all aerosol sunscreens (spritzing sprays are fine), and check the ingredients list yourself to make sure oxybenzone and octinoxate aren’t listed; not all sunscreens marketed as “natural” are actually reef safe. Truly natural sunscreens typically list zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as an active ingredient.

SmarterTravel’s Shannon McMahon writes about all things travel. Follow her on Instagram @shanmcmahon.

Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them.

The post 6 Destinations with Sunscreen Bans, and What You Need to Know appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Mount Washington Cog Railway, New Hampshire

Every September in New Hampshire’s White Mountains, fall-color predictions are the talk of all the local coffee shops. And where better to check out the foliage than from the Mount Washington Cog Railway, which whisks passengers to the top of the Northeast’s highest peak. This popular 150-year-old railway carries passengers via replica coaches (biodiesel engine or vintage steam engine) up a three-mile-long trestle to the 6,288-foot summit. Here you’ll see the surrounding national forest’s brilliant hues from some of the steepest railroad tracks in North America (there’s a 37 percent incline in one stretch). From the summit, you can take in panoramas of the mountains and valleys from New Hampshire to Vermont. On clear days, you can see as far as Maine and Canada.

Check Prices for Omni Mount Washington Resort in Bretton Woods, NH

Book Now

Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, Colorado

Originally constructed in 1881 to haul silver and gold from mining camps in the San Juan Mountains, the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is popular for its awe-inspiring views. As you ride from the remote wilderness of Durango to the mining town of Silverton on this historic coal-fired steam train, you can enjoy autumn’s golden and crimson hues set among the majestic peaks of the San Juan Mountains and along the Animas River. There’s a special ride for fall photographers in late September and, beginning in mid-November, you can kick off the holiday season with a ride on the Polar Express.

Check Prices for Doubletree by Hilton Durango in Durango, CO

Book Now

Reading Blue Mountain & Northern, Pennsylvania

Ride a 1920s-era steam locomotive or diesel train to from the Reading area to Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania, the heart of the Pocono Mountains. The Reading Blue Mountain & Northern railroad runs special fall foliage themed trips with plenty of time to enjoy the charming town of Jim Thorpe. Hop aboard another train, the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway, to savor the foliage in nearby Lehigh Gorge State Park.

Check Prices for Doubletree by Hilton in Reading, PA

Book Now

Tennessee Central Railway Museum, Tennessee

This volunteer organization runs a wide range of short train rides year-round, but the best one for leaf-peeping is the October Fall Foliage Excursion along the Nashville and Eastern Railway. The museum uses its own stable of 1950s vintage passenger cars and diesel locomotives; book a dome seat for the best views.

Check Prices for The W Nashville in Nashville, TN

Book Now

Napa Valley Wine Train, California

Fall in the Napa Valley is one of those unexpected sensory delights. During harvest season the air carries the aroma of fermenting grapes, and changing leaves on grapevines cover the undulating landscape. The Napa Valley Wine Train is a great way to experience it without having to drive. The 36-mile trip takes you from the historic town of Napa through the countryside to the village of St. Helena and back. Enjoy vineyard views, wine tastings, and an onboard multi-course lunch or dinner in a restored early-1900s Pullman car. You also have the option to add on winery tours.

Check Prices for Archer Hotel in Napa, CA

Book Now

Blue Ridge Scenic Railway, Georgia

Climb aboard on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway in downtown Blue Ridge’s historic 1905 depot, and ride the rails from the charming mountain village into the lush Chattahoochee National Forest, enjoying vibrant displays of sweeping color along the way. You’ll stop for a layover in the Georgia/Tennessee border towns of McCaysville and Copperhill, where antique and craft shops and down-home hospitality take you back in time. Back onboard, ask a crewmember to show you around the cars and explain the history behind each one.

Check Prices for the Hampton Inn Blue Ridge in Blue Ridge, GA

Book Now

Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, Ohio

Winding through the 33,000-acre Cuyahoga Valley National Park, the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad takes you along scenic stretches of fall color. Starting just 15 miles outside of Cleveland, the route allows passengers to hop on or off at any of eight stations to explore small towns, canal museums, and a 19th-century working farm. The route runs along several miles of the Ohio and Erie Canal Towpath Trail. For a small fee, you can put your bike on the train, ride a few stops, then bike back to your car. Alternatively, you can book a two-hour, nonstop trip aboard the Fall Flyer for a relaxing ride dedicated to leaf peeping.

Check Prices for Hilton Garden Inn Akron in Akron, OH

Book Now

Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, North Carolina

Less than a 90-minute drive from Tennessee’s Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad‘s Nantahala Gorge trip follows a historic rail line through mountain tunnels on a beautiful fall foliage excursion. See rich auburns and buttery yellows reflected in the water as you cross over Fontana Lake, then trace the winding river through the mountains.

Check Prices for Stonebrook Lodge in Bryson City, NC

Book Now

Grand Canyon Railway, Arizona

Forget the stereotype that Arizona is all desert and rattlesnakes. You can see brilliant pockets of yellow aspens tucked within forests of ponderosa pine, Douglas fir, and spruce in and around Kaibab National Forest when you board the Grand Canyon Railway.

Check Prices for Best Western Plus Inn of Williams in Williams, AZ

Book Now

Essex Steam Train & Riverboat, Connecticut

The sound of the steam locomotive’s whistle and the smell of its burnt-coal smoke have turned many a New England leaf peeper into a hopeless romantic or wistful nostalgic. On the Essex Steam Train & Riverboat excursion, a 1920s locomotive meanders through the Connecticut River Valley over rivers and through forests on a narrated ride before connecting with an open-deck riverboat. You’ll float past the Gillette Castle, the Goodspeed Opera House, and the Haddam Swing Bridge, all festooned in the season’s brilliant colors.

Check Prices for The Griswold Inn in Essex, CT

Book Now

Other Fall Train Rides

Many of Amtrak’s long-haul routes pass through regions of the country with beautiful fall foliage. Consider the Adirondack, which runs between New York City and Montreal; the Pennsylvanian, which travels from New York City to Pittsburgh; the Vermonter, which whisks passengers from Washington, D.C. to northern Vermont; and the California Zephyr, which passes through the Rockies on its route between Chicago and San Francisco.

Shorter tourist lines throughout the country operate other fall foliage train rides as well as Thanksgiving, Christmas, and other seasonally themed excursions. American-Rails.com has a state-by-state searchable directory of scenic rail excursions, including a section on fall foliage.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2013. It has been updated to reflect the most current information. Ed Perkins contributed to this story.

The post The 10 Best Fall Train Rides in the U.S. appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Editor’s Note: The author was hosted by Visit SLO.

Orchestrating a Citywide Effort

San Luis Obispo places environmentalism at the forefront of its public policy, committing to its rigorous Climate Action Plan with the goal of full carbon neutrality by 2035. The city’s work to transition to a low-carbon economy features several projects that benefit residents and tourists alike, including:

• Investment in award-winning public transportation, robust infrastructure for bicyclists, and ample electric vehicle charging stations
• A commitment to plant 10,000 trees by 2035, a goal supported by the Keys for Trees program in which every hotel stay within city limits helps sponsor the planting of new trees across the city
• Bans on plastic bags and limits on single use plastic
• Public conveniences such as bike racks at every trailhead and free green waste removal
• SLO offers roughly ​​3,500 acres of protected open space within city limits, providing scenic retreats for nature lovers, fostering environments for native animals and carbon sequestering plant-life, and preventing urban sprawl.

SLO hopes to lead by example when it comes to sustainability, emphasizing what a small, tightly coordinated local government can truly achieve.

Investing in Education and Innovation

Local enthusiasm for the city’s sustainability efforts is palpable. A visit to SLO reveals just how dedicated the city is to educating citizens and tourists alike on the importance of green innovation.

FarmsteadED

FarmsteadED is an agricultural program designed to foster a connection between people and their food.The program teaches participants about sustainable farming practices, the surrounding land, and what goes into creating those artisanal souvenirs we all love to stuff our suitcases with. FarmsteadED offers tours of multiple agricultural sites throughout the county, alongside demonstrations and interactive workshops.

Kompogas Anaerobic Digester: “Closing the Cycle” of Food Waste

The Kompogas anaerobic digester is the only machine of its kind in the United States. Created by Swiss-Japanese company Hitachi Zosen Inova, this massive machine is carbon negative and can process roughly 100 tons of green waste per day. The resulting nutrient rich compost can replace chemical heavy fertilizers and is available to local farms and vineyards for purchase, effectively closing the loop and starting the farm to table cycle all over again.

Creating Business Buy-In

From wellness centers to renowned wineries, dozens of businesses in SLO take advantage of the opportunities the city provides to go green. 

Sloco Spa: A Certified B Corporation

One of the first and only certified B Corporations in its industry and a member of the SLO County Green Business Network, Sloco Spa goes above and beyond to focus their business operations on employee wellness, community, and environmentalism. Their physical location includes floors made from renewable cork, V.O.C. free paint, and Energy Star certified lighting fixtures. Customers can find environmentally-friendly products and products from BIPOC-owned businesses for sale in the mercantile at the front of the spa. 

Big Sky Cafe: Going Green a the Local Level

Founded in 1994 and purchased by current owner Greg Holt in 2015, Big Sky Cafe was an early adopter of the city’s recycling and green waste pick up project. Today, the cafe tries to stay “hyper-local”, purchasing from local farms, bakeries, cheeseries, etc. wherever possible. 

If asked, Holt can tell you where everything on your plate came from—eggs from Cal Poly, kale and lettuce from Santa Maria Valley—sometimes getting as specific as the first name of the farmer who sold him the produce. This granular level of local sourcing saves on transportation, supports local businesses, and creates a high level of traceability, so next time the nation is short on romaine lettuce, you’ll know exactly what you’re getting and from where.

Vineyards and Wineries: Sustainably Managed in the SLO AVA

Jean-Pierre Wolff is not only the proprietor of Wolff Vineyards, but also the Vice Chair of the Central Coast Regional Water Board and an active member of many other sustainably-focused initiatives. His passion for water management is reflected in Wolff Vineyards, from his innovative irrigation techniques to the grading of the land itself, designed to channel rain water into the fields. 

Tolosa Winery truly embodies the “three Ps” of its SIP certification: people, planet, and prosperity. This vineyard uses sustainable drip irrigation, features an irrigation pond filled with recycled water, and 75% of their total energy comes from solar power, with the goal of becoming fossil fuel free within the next few years.

Wine tastings are available at both of these locations and several more across the SLO American Viticultural Area (AVA) on the Central Coast. Visit on your own or book an educational afternoon with Breakaway Tours and impress your friends back home with your newfound tasting expertise.

Tips to Make Your Travel More Sustainable

Not every dream destination can be as sustainably-focused as SLO, but that doesn’t mean you can’t make your trip a little greener! While it can be daunting to take environmental concerns into consideration on top of everything else that goes into planning a trip, incorporating a few of these tips from the outset can reduce your impact and your vacation planning stress.

Choose an Eco-Friendly Hotel

Many hotels have started gearing toward greener operations. Some properties make it a mainstay of their brand while others are just beginning the transition. Check your hotel’s website for any available information relating to sustainability efforts. Larger brands with several smaller properties under their umbrella, such as Hilton and Marriott, may post their overarching environmental policies on their main site. 

Use Public Transportation When Possible

Skip the rental car and opt for public transit, walking, and biking when possible. Not only will this reduce your greenhouse gas emissions and help save you money on rising gas prices, but you may see things and places you’d miss while speeding through town. Factor this into the planning process and choose a highly walkable destination for your next trip. 

Enjoy Open Space and Conservation Areas

You don’t have to be a hiker to enjoy the outdoors! Exploring the local natural scenery is a great way to get to know an area. Positive support for and interest in these open spaces reminds the people in charge just how important they are to a destination, so bust out those picnic baskets!

Take Advantage of Carbon Offsets

The transition away from fossil fuels is critical in creating more sustainable travel. Many flight booking sites now list which of their itineraries are carbon neutral. There are also several carbon offset companies that can work with you to offset the carbon from your particular trip. 

Swap Your Packing Gear

Making a few small changes to your suitcase can make a big difference. Try these swaps next time you’re making your packing list:

• Zip lock bags for reusable plastic bags
• Toothpaste tubes for toothpaste bits in a glass jar
• Plastic toothbrushes for a compostable bamboo model
• Bottles of hair products for greener (and highly packable) shampoo and conditioner bars. 

Many airports also have water stations where you can fill a reusable water bottle to bring on the plane with you (just make sure you fill it up after you head through security). 

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is a B Corporation?

A: B Corporation is a designation a business can achieve by following a set of standards focused on environmental and social impact, transparency, and accountability. Businesses must recertify every three years to maintain their status. 

You can search through a list of B Corporations here. 

Q: What does SIP Certified mean?

A: SIP (Sustainability In Practice) Certification is a ranking specific to wineries and vineyards centered around preserving natural and human resources. To obtain SIP certification, vineyards and wineries must meet certain requirements and score a minimum point value in an assessment relating to the certification’s core values: social responsibility, water management, safe pest management, energy efficiency, habitat protection, ethical and community-oriented business practices, and willingness to evolve with new science and technology. 

You can search an index of SIP-certified vineyards and wineries here.

Q: What is the difference between a vineyard and a winery?

A: While many operations house both a vineyard and a winery in the same location, the primary difference is that a vineyard is where the grapes are grown and a winery is where the wine is made.

Q: What certifications should I look for in a green business or hotel?

A: Third-party certifications can be a useful indicator of a reliable green business. A few major certifications are:

• LEED Certification: A four-level certification (certified, silver, gold, and platinum) for physical buildings aimed at decreasing carbon emissions and inefficiency and increasing health and safety standards for workers/inhabitants
• SIP Certification: Specific to vineyards and wineries; centered around preserving human and natural resources.
• B Corporation: Designation achieved by a business through following a set of standards focused on environmental and social impact, transparency, and accountability.
• Green Business Bureau Membership: A four level paid membership (member, aware, gold, and platinum) program in which levels are achieved by “completing green initiatives in the GBB EcoAssessment™ and EcoPlanner™”
• Green C Certification: A certification earned by small businesses for meeting standards of sustainability and Corporate Social Responsibility
• Energy Star (Certification for Buildings): A building certification earned by meeting standards set forward by the EPA.

Q: What is greenwashing?

A: Greenwashing refers to businesses that make false or misleading claims about the sustainability and environmental impact of their products and/or practices.

The post San Luis Obispo: A Model for Your Next Sustainable Vacation appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Editor’s Note: The author was hosted by Visit SLO.

Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them.

Table of Contents

Where to Stay
What to Do
What to Eat & Drink
Why Stay in San Luis Obispo?
Your Weekend Itinerary for San Luis Obispo, California

Where to Stay

Hotel Cerro

Opened in 2020, Hotel Cerro is a 65-room boutique hotel near downtown San Luis Obispo. This property offers standard rooms with options for both garden and city views. If you want a true luxury experience, spring for a Garden Suite—each suite opens up onto a private patio lush with west coast vegetation and features a private gate into the hotel’s edible garden, where guests are welcome to snack on whatever is in season.

With hallways decked out in art by local artists, a first-rate restaurant with patio dining, a rooftop bar and pool, a fitness center, and in-house spa, you could spend a weekend just relaxing on the property itself. 

Hotel SLO

Hotel Slo is another boutique option in the city. Opened in 2019, the property features 78 guest rooms, two restaurants, and four bars. It offers a mix of rooms, suites, and studios, with each style featuring a balcony or terrace. Just a five minute walk from Hotel Cerro, Hotel Slo shares its prime central location. 

Other amenities include a fully-equipped fitness center, a 50-foot swimming pool, and concierge services for guests. Hotel Slo also offers treatments at its in-house spa, where guests can choose from a selection of services like the CannaBliss massage with CBD-infused oils or a full body scrub. Keep up with their offers page for deals on your next stay, including a possible third night free.

Find a Hotel in San Luis Obispo, California

With around 40 properties within city limits, there are endless accommodations that can act as homebase while exploring the city. Check out SmarterTravel Hotels to find your perfect weekend getaway. 

What to Do

The Downtown SLO Farmers’ Market

The locals say that in SLO, the weekend starts on Thursday, and for good reason. The Downtown SLO Farmers’ Market, affectionately known as Farmers’, is a massive street fair where artisans, restaurants, and–of course–local farmers come to sell their stock. Starting out small in the 1980s, the market has grown to attract locals and tourists alike. At peak capacity, upwards of 10,000 people pass through Higuera Street on Thursday nights to sample what the fair has to offer. From handcrafted jewelry made from coastal seaglass to live music to the famous Santa Maria-style tri-tip barbeque, the market has everything you need to start your trip in local style.

San Luis Obispo county offers different farmers’ markets every day of the week, with many in the city itself, so you won’t miss out if you’re not here on a Thursday. Visit the Saturday morning market on Madonna Road for a calmer vibe and more focus on local produce.

Art After Dark

If you’re an art lover, plan your trip around the first Friday of every month, where galleries and businesses in the city open their doors after hours to display the work of regional artists. This self-guided art walk is free to the public. You can even visit the San Luis Obispo Museum of Art free of charge during the event.

Wine Tasting

Move over Napa, the newly minted SLO AVA (San Luis Obispo American Viticultural Area) is rapidly becoming a wine country favorite. Schedule a tasting at Wolff Vineyards to try the old vine Chardonnay, one of many vintages produced on their 125 acres of sustainably managed land, or sample a Pinot Noir from Tolosa Winery, a cattle-ranch-turned-vineyard in the Edna Valley. If you’re looking for a guided experience—and for someone to provide you with a delicious lunch—try Breakaway Tours, a bus tour company that focuses on wine education.

Hit the Spa

Sloco Spa is a certified B Corp—one of the first and only in its industry—putting environmentalism, employee wellness, and community involvement at the forefront of its business plan. Sloco is sustainable down to its physical building, which features renewable and hypoallergenic cork flooring, zero V.O.C. paint, and ENERGY STAR certified lighting fixtures. Customers who live locally frequent the spa on a membership basis, but travelers are welcome to book treatments like cryotherapy, a trip to the infrared sauna, normatec compression, or dry salt therapy on a one-off basis. 

Hike and Bike

There are over 7,000 acres of protected open space in San Luis Obispo county. More than 3,000 of these acres, containing over 52 miles of hiking and biking trails, are within the city limits. Spend a day hiking up Bishop Peak or an afternoon walking the comparatively easy jaunt up Terrace Hill. San Luis Obispo is an extremely dog-friendly city, and some trailheads even provide free leashes and pet waste disposal areas to encourage a fun and respectful hike with your furry friend. Each trailhead also comes equipped with bike racks to encourage people to skip the drive and bike or walk to the trails instead.

Where to Eat & Drink

Breakfast & Brunch

Dozens of Coffee Shops

There is no shortage of good coffee in SLO. Grab an Americano and a pastry at Scout Coffee (snag a honey cinnamon scone before they run out—you won’t regret it). Just down the street you can find Kruezberg, a cafe and evening cocktail spot inspired by the coffee shop culture in Berlin. A little further and you’ll reach Skipper’s Brew Coffee House, a queer-owned business with locations in SLO and nearby Morro Bay. There’s also Linnaea’s Cafe, Lucy’s Coffee Company, Kin Coffee bar—the list goes on.  Visit the city’s website for more tasty options. 

Mint + Craft

In addition to a great meal, Mint + Craft offers a variety of handcrafted products for purchase in their mercantile, conveniently located in the restaurant itself.

Big Sky Café

A pioneer in the SLO farm-to-table movement, this community institution is a can’t miss brunch spot. Treat yourself to a sampler tray of the New Orleans beignets to round out your mid-morning meal. 

Lunch

Seeds

Nothing says ‘California vacation’ like an artisanal smoothie bowl. SEEDS offers a selection of healthy toasts, flatbreads, bowls, and smoothies to power you up for the rest of the afternoon.

Dinner

Luna Red & Novo

A local favorite, Luna Red serves a wide variety of tapas, entrées, and cocktails on a spacious and inviting outdoor patio near centrally-located Mission Plaza. This restaurant, along with its sister property Novo, works with a liaison specifically hired to coordinate with chefs and source the freshest possible produce from regional farmers’ markets. If you choose to dine at either of these establishments, there’s a good chance your salad greens or the veggies in your paella were picked fresh just a day before.

Brasserie SLO

Brasserie SLO is the flagship restaurant at Hotel Cerro. Inspired by casual french dining, its menu offers a variety of different cuisines, from burgers to beef bourguignon. Dine indoors or outside on the hotel’s Mission Fig Patio. See if you can spot produce from the hotel’s edible garden making its way onto your plate.

Drinks

Antigua Brewing Company

The only brewing company on the Central Coast that grows their own hops, Antigua Brewing company is a beer lover’s dream. Enjoy an IPA to some live music by the open air storefront or sip on a porter further indoors, where you can see the metal vats hard at work behind a glass wall brewing the next batch.

Rooftop Bars at Hotel Cerro and Hotel Slo

The Rooftop Poolside at Hotel Cerro is open to the public Wednesday through Saturday, 5:00pm to 8:00pm, and Sunday, 12:00pm to 7:00pm. It’s a great place to take a dip and follow it up with a cocktail, all while taking in amazing views of the city.  The High Bar at Hotel Slo is open daily starting at 2:00pm. Play a round of bocce ball with the mountains as your backdrop, loser buys the blue cheese and brussels sprout pizza.

Why Stay in San Luis Obispo?

Building upon the usual Central Coast charm offered by the area, San Luis Obispo is dedicated to sustainability both in its daily operations and its tourism. Find out how your hotel stay directly helps plant trees in the local area or spot the goat herd grazing in spots around the city as part of their wildfire and ecological management plan. You’ll find no shortage of infrastructure for bicyclists (unsurprising from PeopleForBike’s 2020 top city for bicyclists in the US) or people willing to chat with you about what it’s like living in a city that’s going green. These efforts all move the needle toward SLO’s goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2035.

Your Weekend Itinerary for San Luis Obispo, California

Click here to download a copy of this itinerary and take it with you!

Expert tip: Arrive a day early to enjoy the year-round Farmers’ Market (Thursdays, 6:00pm to 9:00pm).

Friday

• Arrive at San Luis Obispo Regional Airport (SBP)
• Check into Hotel Cerro
• Light Lunch at SEEDS
• Local trail hike
• Drinks at Antigua Brewing
• Dinner at Brasserie SLO

Saturday

• Breakfast at Big Sky Café
• Wine tasting with Breakaway Tours (lunch included)
• Treatments at SLOCO Spa
• Enjoy the hotel rooftop pool and bar
• Dinner at Luna Red

Sunday

• Brunch at Mint + Craft
• Explore downtown SLO and historical areas
• Check out of Hotel Cerro (by 11am)
• Coffee and pastries for the road at Scout Coffee
• Depart from San Luis Obispo Regional Airport (SBP) mid-late afternoon

The post SmarterStay: Spend a Weekend in San Luis Obispo, California appeared first on SmarterTravel.