Red Rocks, Slot Canyons & Ribeyes: A Wild, Dusty, Delicious Road Trip Through Southern Utah

Who knew spontaneity and a truckload of mountain bikes could lead to one of the most unforgettable road trips through Southern Utah? As soon as ski season wrapped in our mountain town, we joined the Great Migration—locals fleeing the snow in search of sandstone and sunburns.

Destination: Escalante, Utah (a.k.a. Adventureland for Dirtbags with Decent Taste)
We left central Idaho with our rig packed tighter than a gas station burrito—mountain bikes, hiking gear, sunscreen, too much trail mix, and zero plans beyond “head south.” The drive? Equal parts scenic and smelly (thanks, cattle feedlots). By dinnertime, we landed in Richfield, Utah, where we sniffed out a steakhouse called Steve’s—an open barn-style meat palace full of locals, lovebirds, and prime rib the size of your head. Zero chains, all charm.

Slot Canyon Adventures: Peekaboo, Spooky, and Slightly Sketchy
Our loosely organized plan led us down the legendary Highway 12 Scenic Byway, through Boulder, and onto a 20-mile washboard road that rattled our souls to the Peekaboo and Spooky Slot Canyons trailhead. Pro tip: If you can’t squeeze between the metal poles at the trailhead, you will get stuck in Spooky. (Don't be that person in the viral rescue video, okay?)

Peekaboo offered some fun bouldering moves, and Spooky? Let’s just say it's not for the claustrophobic or overly carb-loaded. But the shade was heavenly and the adventure, top-notch.

Escalante Glamping: Where Dirtbags Become Glam Bags
Hot, dusty, and borderline feral, we rolled into Ofland Escalante—a desert oasis featuring private cabins, a pool, hot tub, and even a drive-in movie setup. We booked one night… and then immediately booked another because comfort is addictive. (Even dirtbag travelers have their limits.)

Dinner? An unexpected win at Escalante Outfitters: pizza the size of your torso, fresh salads, beers on tap, and dessert that could make you weep. Attached gear shop included, so you can buy a new hiking hat to justify the third slice of pie.

Waterfalls, Sandwiches, and the Most Instagrammable Hike Ever
Fueled by bottomless coffee and food truck breakfast at Ofland Escalante, we hit the Lower Calf Creek Falls Trail—a 6-mile round-trip hike ending in an oasis of falling water and zero influencers doing yoga poses on ledges (hallelujah). Then we lunched at Kiva Koffeehouse, a jaw-droppingly gorgeous cliffside café with strong espresso and killer turkey sandwiches. Get a patio seat and stay forever.

Mountain Biking in Kodachrome: Hoodoos and Flow
Next up: Kodachrome Basin State Park, where the singletrack is scenic, the junipers smell amazing, and the hoodoos pop like a Bob Ross painting. We biked late afternoon golden hour, snapping pics and dodging sunburns. Pro tip: Early morning or late afternoon = best light + least regret.

Dinner brought us to 4th West Pub, the only 21+ bar in Southern Utah. Think street tacos, local brews, and a great place to swap trail stories with dusty strangers who instantly become friends.

Willis Creek: Slot Canyon Fun for Everyone (Even Grandma)
We detoured back to Willis Creek Slot Canyon, a mellow, photogenic stroll perfect for families, first-timers, and those who just want to feel adventurous without doing burpees. Drive there via Skutumpah Road—yes, that’s the real name—and maybe bring a truck if you like your suspension.

Fine Dining in Boulder: Hell’s Backbone Grill

Ready for a hard left into gourmet territory? Hell’s Backbone Grill is a James Beard Award-winning culinary mecca tucked away in Boulder, Utah. Reserve in advance, then prepare for some of the best farm-to-table dining west of the Mississippi. The fact that one of the chefs came out to chat with us? Pinch-me level stuff.

Biking Bryce Canyon: Cassidy Trail & Red Rock Magic
Of course, no Southern Utah road trip is complete without a Bryce Canyon ride. We skipped Thunder Mountain this time and hit the Cassidy Trail in Red Canyon—mellow climbs, stunning overlooks, and trail options for every skill level. It's got the views, the flow, and the fun without the crowds. We were cooked by the end but deeply content.

History + Rail Trails = The Cooldown Phase

On the drive north, we swung by the Butch Cassidy childhood home—because outlaw history makes everything cooler—and capped things off with a cruise on the Candy Mountain Express Rail Trail, a chill 13-mile ride through a picturesque canyon. Zero tech, zero stress. Just vibes.

Pocatello: The Final (Trail) Frontier
Before heading home, we stopped in Pocatello, Idaho for a spin on their local trail system. Wow. A hidden gem for mountain bikers and trail runners alike. Vistas, flow, technical challenges—you name it. Bonus: Ross Park rock climbing is right in town if you’re still feeling strong!

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Conclusion:
Southern Utah isn’t just red rocks and rattlesnakes—it’s an adventure buffet. Whether you're slot-canyon crawling, glamping in style, or mountain biking until your legs cry mercy, this region delivers. And the best part? You don’t even need a solid plan—just a truck, a good appetite, and a high tolerance for dirt.

So pack your gear, trust your gut (and maybe Google or ONX maps), and let Southern Utah work its magic. Adventure’s waiting… and probably laughing at your dusty shoes.

Heli Skiing in Nevada? Ruby Mountains Will Blow Your Mind

 If you're an alpine skier or snowboarder who dreams in face shots and knee-deep powder, there’s one bucket list item that shines above the rest: heli skiing. It's the ultimate flex of ski adventures. No lift lines. No crowds. Just you, a chopper, untouched powder, and quads screaming louder than your après-ski playlist.

Most people don’t look at Northeastern Nevada and say, “Yeah, that’s where I want to drop thousands of feet in fluffy powder.” But let me tell you—if Las Vegas is the land of neon dreams, then the Ruby Mountains are where powder dreams come true. Welcome to Ruby Mountain Heli, a heli skiing haven hiding in the high desert.

Wait... Nevada? For Heli Skiing?

Yes. Nevada. Where you usually expect tumbleweeds, not 20 inches of cold smoke. Nestled in the Ruby Mountains, Ruby Mountain Heli has been defying expectations (and gravity) for nearly 50 years. What started as a dream by two ski-loving legends, Joe and Francy Royer, is now a full-blown operation run out of a luxury lodge. It’s like the Four Seasons... if the Four Seasons had avalanche transceivers and rotating blades on the back patio.

Arrival: Weigh-Ins, Wine, and Wow Factor

We arrived on a Sunday after a scenic 4.5-hour drive through the deserts of Idaho and northern Nevada—a journey that feels a little like Mad Max but ends more like James Bond. You roll up, step inside the lodge, and boom—you’re hit with upscale ski-lodge vibes. Think stone fireplaces, warm wood interiors, and a staff that checks you in, weighs you for the helicopter (rude but necessary), and takes your skis to the gear room like you're royalty.

Pro tip: The weigh-in is not the time to lie about those extra pounds from last night’s charcuterie board.

The Food: Michelin-Star Mountain Fuel

You won’t go hungry here. In fact, you’ll be so well-fed that by dessert you’ll be googling “how to ski with a food baby.” Hors d’oeuvres, cocktails, chef-prepared dinners, and desserts that make you question your loyalty to your home kitchen—it's all included. The culinary experience alone is worth the trip.

Day One: Helicopters, Disco Balls, and Powder Nirvana

Mornings start with safety briefings in the ski room—complete with spinning disco balls and dance tunes that make you forget you’re about to be trained for avalanche survival. These guides don’t mess around. With no avalanche forecasting in the Rubies, they do it all themselves—dropping bombs, digging pits, and ensuring every run is safe before your skis touch snow.

And then? You take off. Literally. From sagebrush to snow in minutes, the chopper lifts off from the back patio and suddenly you're flying toward untouched lines that make you want to weep tears of joy. Our first day was epic: nine runs, bluebird skies, and blower pow from boot-high to knee-deep. Skiing every aspect imaginable left us feeling gassed, grinning, and ready to carbo-load like Olympic athletes.

Day Two: Storm Day? Snowcat to the Rescue

We woke up to sideways snow and whiteout skies—not ideal for flying, unless you're into blindfolded rotor rides. But Ruby Mountain Heli has a secret weapon: snowcats. Instead of wasting a day, we were whisked up the canyon in warm snowcats to ski fresh lines while the storm raged. The snow was stacking fast, and every run got better than the last. This wasn’t a “plan B”—it was a powder party with its own soundtrack.

Bonus: après included more gourmet food, drinks, and a geology talk that—surprisingly—was way cooler than it sounds. Apparently, rocks can be fun if you’re skiing on them.

Day Three: Cold Smoke and Big Smiles

The final day delivered what every skier dreams of: bluebird skies, knee-to-eye-deep cold smoke, and the kind of snow that makes you giggle like a kid at recess. Our pilot landed on ridgelines so narrow you'd swear he moonlights as a brain surgeon. But every single drop was perfect. We crushed 6 runs that day—yes, we paid for extras, and no, we don’t regret it. Not even a little.

Final Thoughts: Legs Toasted, Hearts Full, Deposit Down

After three days and 21 runs of skiing glory, we said our goodbyes to the guides and staff who now felt like old friends. These people live and breathe mountain life, and it shows in every turn, every safety call, and every dinner table story. Before leaving, we locked in our spot for next year—because once you experience Ruby Mountain Heli, there’s no going back to lift lines and tracked-out bowls.

The Verdict: Go Heli Skiing in Nevada. Yes, Nevada. Just Trust Us.

If you ever get the chance to heli ski with Ruby Mountain Heli, don’t hesitate—just do it. Whether you’re a seasoned powder hound or just looking to upgrade your ski game, this is the kind of trip you’ll tell stories about for years. And probably dream about every time it snows.

10 Days in Portugal: Wine, Walking Tours & Wandering Off-Season Bliss

 It feels like everyone and their dog has been to Portugal in the last five years. So, naturally, we figured it was finally our turn to see what all the fuss was about. After all, how many pastel de nata photos can one scroll through before booking a flight?

Why Visit Portugal in November?

We strategically chose early November for our Portugal adventure—aka shoulder season. Why? Fewer tourists, cooler temps, and no risk of melting into a puddle in Lisbon’s cobbled streets. The weather was “Goldilocks perfect”—not too hot, not too cold, and just enough rain to make things interesting.

Lisbon: Where Our Journey Began

We kicked things off in Lisbon, the bustling capital and best starting point for a Portugal itinerary. After landing, we handed our bags off to the legends at LUGGit—a luggage transfer service that’s a total game-changer—and strolled into town with just a daypack and a sense of adventure.

Enter David from WithLocals, our private walking tour guide and certified Lisbon history wizard. If you want to see Lisbon like a local and dodge the tourist traps (you know the ones), book a tour with these guys. David was born and raised in Lisbon and had stories that made the city come alive.

On his recommendation, we had our first Portuguese meal at Inhaca, a hidden gem where the locals outnumber the tourists. Pro tip: Always text your local guide for food advice. Always.

The walking tour wrapped up—conveniently—at the front door of our rental flat, just as LUGGit rolled up with our bags. Perfect timing. Smooth start. 10/10 would recommend.

Lisbon Day 2: Walking, Wine & the World’s Strongest Granny Liquor

We walked about 15 miles through Lisbon’s most charming neighborhoods: Chiado, Bairro Alto, and Alfama. Each corner revealed another picturesque alley or cozy café, making it hard not to stop every five minutes for another espresso or photo op.

Traveling with kids? Lisbon’s Oceanário (aquarium) is fantastic and located right on the waterfront—just a short Uber ride from downtown.

Later that evening, we joined a food tour in Alfama, booked via Airbnb Experiences. Yes, it was a bit pricey. Yes, it was worth every euro. From sipping local wines to eating in tiny taverns only locals know about, it was a flavorful crash course in Portuguese cuisine.

And then there’s Ginjinha, the cherry liqueur sold by adorable street-side grannies. It tastes like cherry-flavored NyQuil...but in a good way. Kind of.

Day Trip to Sintra: Castles, Crowds & Forest Trails

No Portugal trip is complete without visiting Sintra. Even in the off-season, it was packed. But the castle ruins, fairy-tale palaces, and misty forest trails made the crowds worth it. We skipped the guided tour and explored on our own, which gave us plenty of time to soak in the views—and a bit of drizzle.

Coastal Cruising: Lisbon to Nazaré

We picked up a BMW diesel (hello, road trip luxury on a budget) and headed north to Nazaré, the beach town famous for giant waves and big wave surfing. Unfortunately, the ocean was as flat as a pancake that day. But hey, the clifftop views and seafood joints made it a worthy pit stop.

Off-the-Grid at a Lake House Near Ferreira do Zêzere

We then made our way to a remote lake house near the teeny-tiny town of Ferreira do Zêzere. No tourists. One restaurant. One grocery store. And lots of peace and quiet.

It was cold. It was rainy. It was awesome. We hiked the surrounding hills and embraced the moody November vibes. When life gives you lemons in Portugal? Add wine and make sangria.

Next up: Tomar, home to the Castelo de Tomar—a hilltop fortress that feels like something out of a medieval video game. For a few euros, you can explore for hours. Highly recommended.

Obidos: Portugal’s Fairytale Walled City

Rather than following the crowds to Porto, we detoured to Óbidos, a lesser-known (but arguably better) alternative. This medieval walled city is packed with charm, boutiques, and excellent food. We especially loved walking the city wall and dining at A Nova Casa de Ramiro—fine dining without the pretense.

The Algarve Finale: Lagos, Cliffs & Coastal Trails

Our final stop was the southern gem of Portugal: the Algarve, specifically Lagos. It’s a historic walled town perched by the sea, loaded with character and flanked by jaw-dropping beaches.

Fun fact: While
remodeling our Airbnb, the hosts discovered Roman pottery dating back to 200 BC. Yes, this place is old.

Top food pick: Pomo – La Pasta Italiana. It’s tiny, so go early unless you enjoy long waits. Favorite coffee? Black and White. Great brew, cozy vibe.

If you’re a fan of hiking, don’t miss Ponta da Piedade and the Marinha Beach coastal trails. We hiked westward for hours along the cliffs—each turn more scenic than the last.

Want something less touristy? Head north to Bairro Monte Vistoso and Lighthouse Beach. Surfing, hiking, and water sports await.

Bonus Portugal Travel Tip: Wine Without Regret

One of Portugal’s best-kept secrets? No-headache wine. The local Vinho Verde (green wine) is refreshing, light, and budget-friendly. Try it—you might never go back to your usual bottle again.

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Final Thoughts on Our Portugal Road Trip

From Lisbon’s rich history to Lagos’ stunning coastline, Portugal delivered on every level. Whether you're in it for castles, cuisine, or coastlines, this country has something for every kind of traveler—especially those who like their trips with a side of spontaneity and a splash of wine.

Here are some other photos from our trip:

Ski Trip to Banff, Lake Louise & Canmore: Nordic and Alpine Skiing

 Planning a winter ski trip to the Banff and Lake Louise area in 2024? This guide covers our firsthand experience skiing both Nordic and alpine terrain in Canmore, Banff, and Lake Louise, plus tips on where to stay, eat, and explore. Whether you’re visiting during a low snow year or just looking for insider advice, this post breaks it all down.

✈️ Getting There: Boise to Calgary + Hotel Tips

We flew from Boise to Calgary, arriving late in the evening. Renting a car was easy—we picked one up from Hertz at Calgary International Airport.

Where NOT to Stay: We initially booked a generic airport hotel (think Hampton Inn), but weren’t impressed. Dry bread and powdered eggs don’t exactly fuel a ski day.

PRO TIP: On your way back, stay at the Calgary Marriott Airport Hotel—literally 250 feet from the terminal. Great food, modern rooms, a bar, and a full gym make it a worthwhile upgrade. 

🎿 Nordic Skiing in Canmore: Olympic-Level Trails

Our first ski stop was the legendary Canmore Nordic Centre, just outside Banff.

Built for the 1988 Winter Olympics, this world-class cross-country ski destination offers:

• Day passes for around $18 USD

• Groomed trails with Olympic-grade climbs and descents

• Trail names like EKG, Rundle, Flying Squirrel, and Coyote

The lodge is cozy, food is surprisingly great, and even during the low-snow 2024 season, they were making snow for an upcoming Nordic World Cup event.

Weather Note: Temps were near 40°F with clear skies, so conditions were slick but manageable.

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🏘️ Exploring Canmore: Food and Small-Town Charm

After skiing, spend time in downtown Canmore, a charming mountain town with great local restaurants and zero touristy vibes (if you know where to go).

Local Tip: Skip the main strip and check out Communitea Cafe—a hidden gem we loved. Canmore’s vibe? Let’s just say we wouldn’t mind moving there someday.

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🛌 Where to Stay in Banff: Moose Hotel & Suites

We based ourselves in downtown Banff at Moose Hotel & Suites—highly recommended for easy walking access to restaurants, shopping, and shuttles to ski resorts.

PRO TIP: Banff is busy during holidays, so book hotel and restaurant reservations early. Walk-ins = long waits.

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🍽️ Where to Eat in Banff: Restaurant Picks

A few standouts during our trip:

• Brazen – Modern Canadian cuisine

• Park Distillery – House-made spirits and hearty meals

• Farm and Fire – Wood-fired comfort food

• Anejo – Excellent tacos and tequila

Need groceries? The IGA in downtown Banff has everything you’ll need for snacks, drinks, or even meal prepping.

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⛷️ Alpine Skiing in Lake Louise & Banff Sunshine

🏔️ Lake Louise Ski Resort

Our day at Lake Louise was... interesting. The weather brought sleet and ice, so conditions ranged from crusty at the top to slushy at the base. Still, it was worth it.

Don’t Miss: Temple Lodge on the backside. It’s a throwback lodge with decent eats and great terrain on clear days. The views from the summit are epic if visibility cooperates.

🏞️ Banff Sunshine Village

Next up: Sunshine Village, just a short drive or shuttle from Banff. We were hoping to find better snow—and we did!

• Park in the base lot and hop on the gondola to access the main ski area.

• Conditions were much better up top, especially on Standish and Lookout Mountains.

• For backcountry lovers, Standish Summit offers great touring access.

Scenery here is next level. Even with variable snow in 2024, Sunshine delivered the best alpine skiing of the trip.

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🕶️ Winter Travel Tips for Banff & Lake Louise

• Avoid peak holidays for smaller crowds and easier bookings.

• Book ski passes online ahead of time to save money.

• Dress in layers—temps swing wildly between valley and summit.

• Consider splitting time between Nordic and alpine skiing for variety.

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📊 Overall Ratings (Out of 10)

Category	Rating
Scenery & Views	10
Nordic Skiing	9
Alpine Skiing	4–5
Restaurants	7.5
Lodging	7
Overall Trip	8

Despite the low-snow 2024 winter, our ski trip to Banff, Canmore, and Lake Louise was still a memorable adventure. From Olympic-grade Nordic trails to breathtaking alpine views and lively après-ski options, this area has something for every winter traveler.

✅ Final Thoughts

If you're planning a ski trip to Banff or Lake Louise, especially during an unpredictable snow season, diversify your experience. Mix in cross-country skiing, explore the towns of Canmore and Banff, and travel midweek to avoid crowds.

Here are some random picts from the trip:

            Canmore Nordic Center

                        Canmore Nordic Center

            Upper Johnstone Creek

                Standish Mountain @ Banff Sunshine