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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Michigan
By Stephen Hanson
Two hours north of Grand Rapids, the natural alcoves between dunes make for the perfect beachside camping spots along the tranquil shores of Lake Michigan.
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New Jersey
By Stephen Hanson
Winding through forested peaks and rivers, this short but incredibly stunning North Jersey route reveals why the Garden State still lives up to its name.
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West Virginia
By Stephen Hanson
Hidden in the Appalachians, this underrated West Virginia state park offers serene lakes, deep forested gorges, and thrilling outdoor recreation.
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This state park boasts the second-largest canyon system in the country. While Texas' summer heat can be tough, autumn brings cooler temps and gorgeous views.
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Kentucky
By Stephen Hanson
Hidden deep in Kentucky's Red River Gorge, this forest trail winds through lush Appalachian woodlands and ends at a breathtaking natural rock arch.
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Maryland
By Stephen Hanson
Near Baltimore, a lush Maryland forest filled with waterfalls, rivers, and scenic bridges offers an easy escape into nature where history and adventure meet.
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Wisconsin
By Stephen Hanson
Hidden deep in northern Wisconsin, a stunning state park offers roaring waterfalls, ancient gorges, and tranquil trails surrounded by Great Lakes wilderness.
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South Carolina
By Stephen Hanson
Located in northwestern South Carolina, this trail leads you to a waterfall that feels straight out of a fantasy movie, with mossy rocks and countless cascades.
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Set beside Lake Tahoe's crystal waters, this California mountain park offers easy trails, old-growth forests, and untouched Sierra Nevada scenery.
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Wyoming
By Stephen Hanson
In Wyoming's Rocky Mountains, a short yet unforgettable hike winds through pristine wilderness, leading to one of the most spectacular viewpoints in America.
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A beautiful nature preserve tucked into an Ohio college town hides a secret cave within a swath of land donated by a father in memory of his daughter.
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North Dakota
By Stephen Hanson
North Dakota's oldest state park blends history with river valley scenery, offering trails, campsites, and cultural landmarks for every type of traveler.
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Connecticut
By Stephen Hanson
Discover one of Connecticut's most overlooked outdoor escapes, where a forested mountain trail leads to a striking stone tower offering sweeping views.
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Along the Texas Gulf Coast lies a breathtaking island refuge where pristine wetlands, vibrant birdlife, and untouched coastal beauty create a wild sanctuary.
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Georgia
By Stephen Hanson
Tucked in Georgia's Blue Ridge Mountains, this overlooked state park offers forested trails, lakeside scenery, and a centuries-old mountaintop mystery.
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Colorado
By Stephen Hanson
This lesser-known Colorado park boasts incredible views of Boulder's iconic mountains and is a National Historic Landmark, with historic cottages and lodges.
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Arizona
By Stephen Hanson
This challenging Sedona hike leads to jaw-dropping 360-degree views of red rocks, peaks, and desert vistas that make every uphill climb worth it.
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In Idaho, a breathtaking state park along the Snake River blends striking geology, rich pioneer history, and endless outdoor adventures for a unique escape.
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Arkansas
By Stephen Hanson
This 4.3-mile trail in Arkansas' Ozark mountains is as gorgeous as it is risky, with slippery rocks and a vertical climb. Here's why hikers think it's worth it.
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Deep in Maine's rugged North Woods, a breathtaking forest trail winds through Baxter State Park to reveal the state's tallest cascade in a hidden alpine gorge.
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Michigan
By Stephen Hanson
In Michigan's Upper Peninsula, a hidden park reveals a stunning fan-shaped waterfall surrounded by pristine forest and scenic hiking trails.
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Colorado
By Stephen Hanson
Colorado's youngest state park lived a past life as a privately owned ranch with unique geology and epic views that the public can now experience.
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Embark on an Oregon adventure beyond the Cascades to this hidden gem, a state park that showcases captivating river views and a stunning geological landmark.
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North Carolina
By Stephen Hanson
This trail is easily accessed from multiple spots on the Blue Ridge Parkway and makes the perfect stop to get your steps in or take in the incredible scenery.
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Arizona
By Stephen Hanson
This state park, an hour and a half north of Phoenix, is more than just beautiful. It also tells a moving and tragic story about a team of local firefighters.
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California
By Stephen Hanson
Nestled in Tahoe National Forest, this California reservoir stuns with alpine views, a family-friendly trail, and peaceful waters for swimming and boating.
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North Carolina
By Stephen Hanson
Discover a hidden North Carolina state park where summit trails, wildflowers, and bird-filled forests create a scenic Blue Ridge mountain escape.
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