School
Duquesne University, Humboldt University Berlin, Central European University
Expertise
National parks, Foreign travel, Hiking trails
- Stephen has covered breaking travel news and major travel trends for top travel publications.
- An avid traveler, he has stepped foot on four different continents and more than two dozen countries.
- When not writing, he enjoys hiking, kayaking, and nature photography.
Experience
Stephen Hanson is an author, travel writer, and amateur photographer. A native of Pittsburgh, he has also lived in Berlin, Vienna, and Washington, D.C., where he currently resides. Steve has published both fiction and non-fiction in international publications. In addition to his published works, he has also studied cognitive science at the graduate level and worked in the educational field.
Education
Stephen has a bachelor's degree with a dual focus on English and philosophy, and is currently completing a graduate degree in the field of cognitive science.
Islands content is created by a team of veteran writers and editors passionate about travel. Outside experts with deep field knowledge sometimes inform our work with additional context and perspectives by way of exclusive commentary. Our goal is to offer readers well-rounded and diverse articles that inform, entertain, and inspire.
Our editors consistently review and update articles to ensure they're providing current, relevant, and useful information. Complete information on our editorial process is available here.
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North Carolina
By Stephen Hanson
The most stunning parks in North Carolina's Blue Ridge Mountains offer panoramic views, high peaks, scenic trails, and unforgettable outdoor adventures.
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This hidden outdoor gem outside Fort Worth offers wooded hills, scenic trails, peaceful lake recreation, and one of Texas' most unique man-made waterfalls.
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Skip the car and experience America's top national parks through seamless rail links, park shuttles, and easy transit access for a smoother getaway.
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Is cold weather getting you down, and you need an outdoor adventure in warmer climates? Here are five of the best parks that promise warm winter temperatures.
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North Carolina
By Stephen Hanson
One of the Blue Ridge Parkway's most scenic short hikes offers multiple overlooks, lush forest paths, and stunning mountain waterfall views in under two miles.
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Tennessee
By Stephen Hanson
Tennessee's largest natural lake was born from a powerful earthquake and now offers peaceful waters with cypress trees, wildlife, and a scenic fishing lodge.
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Illinois
By Stephen Hanson
A hidden wilderness tucked in Illinois reveals rocky canyons, rushing waterfalls, forested trails, and lush biodiversity, making it a perfect escape.
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Arizona
By Stephen Hanson
Just outside Phoenix lies a desert paradise of rugged mountains, scenic trails, and starlit campgrounds where Arizona's natural beauty shines.
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Pennsylvania
By Stephen Hanson
Glide past covered bridges, wooded banks, and quiet towns on a stunning kayaking route that captures the serene essence of Pennsylvania's heartland.
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Colorado
By Stephen Hanson
High in Colorado's Rocky Mountains lies a stunning alpine lake surrounded by towering peaks and pine forests, offering breathtaking natural views.
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Washington
By Stephen Hanson
In Washington state, a handful of lesser‑known parks offer extraordinary wildlife experiences, making these lands must‑visit for nature lovers.
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West Virginia
By Stephen Hanson
This West Virginia state park is a gateway to extensive trails and outdoor fun, along with seasonal events such as a drive-through holiday lights display.
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A lesser‑known Midwestern museum has been named America's best history museum for 2025, with exhibits covering innovation, local culture, and food heritage.
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New Jersey
By Stephen Hanson
Explore a hidden bayside nature preserve in New Jersey where walking trails wind through dunes, marshes, and forested shoreline with birdwatching opportunities.
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Deep in Central Oregon lies a short yet unnervingly narrow lava‑tube hike full of basalt corridors and tight passages where tall visitors may have to crouch.
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Across America, a handful of extraordinary national parks give travelers the rare chance to see endangered animals thriving in protected wilderness.
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South Carolina
By Stephen Hanson
While it may often go overlooked, this South Carolina state park offers a slice of American history, picturesque forests, and fantastic fishing.
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Several breathtaking U.S. monuments and wilderness areas may soon earn the coveted title of national park, joining America's most extraordinary protected lands.
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Missouri
By Stephen Hanson
One of Missouri's most striking natural escapes offers ancient pink granite, clear pools, and waterfalls for a peaceful canyon retreat surrounded by forest.
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Stretches of South Carolina's Lowcountry host may host calm waters, rich ecosystems, but they also have the unmistakable presence of native alligators.
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Grand Canyon
By Stephen Hanson
The Grand Canyon can get a little crowded if you go to the most popular areas. This hidden gem of a trail offers all the right views without the crowds.
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Arizona
By Stephen Hanson
High in Arizona's mountains, this peaceful lake surrounded by lush evergreens offers pristine fishing, kayaking, and camping in a tranquil forest setting.
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Michigan
By Stephen Hanson
Michigan is full of outdoor recreation, but this stunning lake that is tucked into the Porcupine Mountains is a hidden gem with hiking, kayaking, and fishing.
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Louisiana
By Stephen Hanson
A scenic route through Louisiana's wetlands offers some of the South’s best birdwatching, where forests, bayous, and trails create a haven for wildlife lovers.
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While it's never a good idea to approach a wild bear, the furry animals can be particularly dangerous during this short yet crucial period of time.
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Colorado
By Stephen Hanson
Venture into America’s Swiss-like landscapes on a breathtaking hike. The challenging trail hits some incredible natural gems, surrounding a quaint town.
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Hidden in western Kansas, an easy hike leads to striking chalk formations that rise from the flat prairie, creating an otherworldly landscape of fragile spires.
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