Islands - Expert Travel Info & Tips: From Islands, to Mountains, & Everything In Between

Why The Grand Canyon Has Striped Rocks (And Where You Can Find Them)

staff@islands.com (Olivia Typaldos) — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

There's more behind the Grand Canyon's striped layers than meets the eye, and some of the best places to see them aren't from up from the top.

The Best Budget-Friendly Vacation Rentals Close To National Parks, According To Reviews

staff@islands.com (Sara Caskey) — Wed, 04 Feb 2026 11:30:00 +0000

Visiting one of the United States' best national parks is perfect for a vacation road trip, and you can stay close to many parks while staying within budget.

The Big Changes Coming To Grand Canyon's Iconic Havasu Falls Permitting System In 2026

staff@islands.com (Bridget Gleeson) — Mon, 26 Jan 2026 12:45:00 +0000

Scoring a permit to Grand Canyon's iconic Havasu Falls is not easy. A big change is coming to the permitting system in 2026; here's everything you need to know.

The 5 Cleanest Grand Canyon Campsites, According To Reviews

staff@islands.com (Emily Frantz) — Mon, 26 Jan 2026 04:45:00 +0000

If you're looking for a clean campsite near the Grand Canyon, consider picking one of these nearby options, with choices for both tents and RVs.

The 10 Best American Locations For Stargazing Without Equipment

staff@islands.com (Jamie Ditaranto) — Thu, 15 Jan 2026 18:30:00 +0000

These remote areas of the United States are all far away from light pollution, are DarkSky certified, and some may even give you a glimpse of the Milky Way.

This Thrilling Grand Canyon Walk Is A Gravity-Defying Attraction With Stunning Views Over Arizona's Red Cliffs

staff@islands.com (Ben M Stower) — Fri, 09 Jan 2026 21:00:00 +0000

Walk out over the Grand Canyon to peer thousands of feet downward into the red cliffs, enjoying some of the most dramatic views in all of Arizona.

Bizarre Facts You Probably Didn't Know About The Grand Canyon

staff@islands.com (Heather Cole) — Mon, 15 Dec 2025 23:30:00 +0000

From an ancient Egyptian hoax to a mysterious disappearances and Cold War history, here are 10 bizarre facts you probably didn't know about the Grand Canyon.

Grand Canyon Hotel Closures Could Reshape 2026 Travel Plans: What To Know Before You Book

staff@islands.com (Bridget Gleeson) — Thu, 04 Dec 2025 16:45:00 +0000

The latest in a string of troubles for the lodges and hotels inside the park, hotels in the South Rim Village area have been forced to close indefinitely.

America's Most-Visited National Parks Will Have A New High Fee For Specific Tourists In 2026

staff@islands.com (Bridget Gleeson) — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 22:45:00 +0000

America's national parks are arguably among its greatest assets, but visitors to some of these destinations may have to pay an additional fee starting in 2026.

A Quaint Lodge In Grand Canyon National Park Is The Best Way To Experience The Splendor Before The Crowds Arrive

staff@islands.com (Brandy Jo Hastings) — Thu, 27 Nov 2025 02:15:00 +0000

This historic hotel in the Ponderosa forest offers terrific rooms, as well as some calm within the proverbial storm of Grand Canyon tourism.

Two Of The Grand Canyon's Most Loved Attractions Finally Reopened After The North Rim Fire

staff@islands.com (Caitlin McAllister) — Fri, 21 Nov 2025 23:45:00 +0000

After months of closures, parts of the Grand Canyon are welcoming visitors again, offering opportunities for hikes and coveted backcountry stays.

Arizona's Top 5 Glamping Destinations For A Luxe Outdoor Experience Out West

staff@islands.com (Emily Frantz) — Wed, 19 Nov 2025 18:15:00 +0000

Arizona is a top destination for glamping, so if you want to get out under the big desert sky with the comforts of home, check out these five spots.

Arizona's Hidden Grand Canyon Trail With Fewer Crowds Is Easy And Has The Best South Rim Views

staff@islands.com (Stephen Hanson) — Tue, 11 Nov 2025 16:25:00 +0000

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.

The Best Way To See The Grand Canyon Might Be By Taking This Wildly Affordable Train Trip

staff@islands.com (Amber Nolan) — Tue, 30 Sep 2025 13:25:00 +0000

This two-hour train ride to the Grand Canyon is a great way to skip the traffic and enjoy beautiful scenic views, music, reenactments, and history.

Arizona's Village Inside Grand Canyon National Park Is A Breathtakingly Scenic Locale For A Weekend Getaway

staff@islands.com (Caitlin McAllister) — Sun, 28 Sep 2025 18:45:00 +0000

The Grand Canyon is one of the most spectacular sights in the world, and there is actually a tiny town within the gorge that makes a visit much easier.

Tourists Rubbed This Storied Grand Canyon Statue For Luck, Now They're Hoping It Can Rise From The Ashes

staff@islands.com (Ben M Stower) — Thu, 07 Aug 2025 17:00:00 +0000

Arizona's wildfires have devastated some of the state's most beloved natural areas. They also claimed the statue of one of the Grand Canyon's greatest legends.

Arizona's Wildly Historic Grand Canyon Lodge Has Burned Down (Here's What To Know)

staff@islands.com (Akram Herrak) — Tue, 15 Jul 2025 21:45:00 +0000

Tragically, the Grand Canyon Lodge has burned down completely in the latest wildfires raging through the area. Here's what you need to know.

The Best-Ranked Campground In All Of America Is A Paradise Out West With Abundant Outdoor Recreation

staff@islands.com (Jenna Kelley) — Tue, 13 May 2025 21:15:00 +0000

A top-ranked campground is a paradise in the Southwest, with plenty of activities on site and abundant outdoor recreation awaiting outside.

Solitude In The Grand Canyon Really Is Possible On This Less-Traveled, Beautiful Backcountry Route

staff@islands.com (Isabel OToole) — Thu, 03 Apr 2025 15:15:00 +0000

One of the most challenging treks in the Grand Canyon is also one of the most rewarding. Solitude is possible on this beautiful backcountry route.

The Best Stops On A Breathtaking Road Trip Between Las Vegas And The Grand Canyon

staff@islands.com (Sanjay Surana) — Thu, 20 Feb 2025 15:30:17 +0000

Rather than make your journey between Las Vegas and the Grand Canyon a straight shot, why not make some stops along the way? Checl out the best ones.