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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Vermont
By Stephen Hanson
Vermonts third-tallest peak in the Green Mountains is an outdoor paradise filled with gorgeous scenery, miles of trails, and photo-worthy waterways.
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California
By Stephen Hanson
Discover mountain vistas, granite peaks, and over 100 lakes on this epic California hiking trail hidden away in the Sierra Nevada Mountain range.
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Thought Ohio was all flat? Think again. The Buckeye State has some fabulous hikes, no more magnificent than this curious trail to a natural wonder.
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This circuit summits multiple New Hampshire peaks above 4,000 feet, providing a difficult but rewarding hike with great views of the White Mountains.
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The Lone Star State is packed with gorgeous nature in every direction, and visitors will find plenty of Texas magic at this stunning state park in the tropics.
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Colorado
By Stephen Hanson
Discover history at the Colorado-Utah border destination, which is filled with ancient structures built by the Indigenous people and scenic trails.
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North Carolina
By Stephen Hanson
This unique hike from within the North Carolina stretch of the Appalachian Mountains is a must-visit for experienced hikers.
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South Carolina
By Stephen Hanson
If you have ever dreamt of tackling a canoe trail that idles through a spectacular forest of the ancient variety, the Palmetto State has just the park for you.
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Pennsylvania
By Stephen Hanson
Dust off those hiking boots, charge the camera, and get ready for a truly adorable adventure in this gorgeous state park in Pennsylvania's Laurel Highlands.
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Walk and hike around this massive icefield in southeastern Alaska that's twice the size of New York City and drains into more than 30 different glaciers.
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Tennessee
By Stephen Hanson
Spend time in nature at this scenic Tennessee river that offers an abundance of water and land-based activities.
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Arizona
By Stephen Hanson
Parts of Arizona may seem like a desert wasteland, but tucked away are gems like this desert refuge home to exotic wildlife and beautiful canyon views.
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Kentucky
By Stephen Hanson
The spectacular Red River Gorge is one of the undoubted highlights of the Bluegrass State, but make a beeline for this easy trail to get a new view of Kentucky.
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Wisconsin
By Stephen Hanson
Door County is among the Midwest's best-kept secrets, and its miles of shoreline make for the perfect beach escape for those looking to get away from it all.
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This popular hiking route past two stunning alpine lakes in Rocky Mountain National Park is an easy, mostly flat trail that's perfect for novice hikers.
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Immerse yourself in a surreal world of needle-like rock formations and desert landscape on this epic trail in Utah's Canyonlands National Park.
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Colorado
By Stephen Hanson
While Colorado isn't known for its waterfalls, this unique state park on the Western Slope is home to a truly unique triple waterfall and verdant scenery.
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California
By Stephen Hanson
Some hikes feature jaw-dropping vistas, while others offer up unparalleled insights into natural history. This world-famous hike in California does both.
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Arizona
By Stephen Hanson
You won't beat Arizona's heat at this natural warm spring, but it's a must-see outdoor playground with nature trails that offer views of local wildlife.
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North Carolina
By Stephen Hanson
Paddle or hike on this unique National Forest Saltwater Trail and experience the full range of North Carolina's diverse coastal ecosystems all in one trip.
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Creative cities and verdant views might jump to mind when you think of Oregon, but its second-largest state park shows a different side to the state.
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Maryland
By Stephen Hanson
Don't miss this underrated state park, as it has a lot of natural beauty, adventure, and fun to offer visitors and campers alike.
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Arizona
By Stephen Hanson
If you are into off-the-grid, rugged terrain, Grand Canyon-Parashant National Monument may be one of the "last truly wild" spots in the Southwest.
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New Mexico
By Stephen Hanson
The largest accessible cave in the world is hidden below the Guadalupe Mountains in New Mexico, near the Texas border, where you can witness geological wonders.
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Arizona
By Stephen Hanson
Learn about one of the most prominent red rock formations in Sedona, including its prime location, stunning hiking trails, and powerful spiritual qualities.
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Pennsylvania
By Stephen Hanson
Pennsylvania has precious little shoreline, but they make the best of what they've got on Lake Erie's shores with some stunning nature and wildlife.
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New Mexico
By Stephen Hanson
This state park near Taos offers a fantastic natural retreat with stunning palisades, camping options, hiking trails, and fishing opportunities.
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