We flew through America's least-visited national park. What was it like?
Julie and I love visiting national parks, but a few, like Gates of the Arctic National Park, Alaska, are more challenging to reach. The remote park sits above the Arctic Circle and only received 11,045 visitors in 2023. I never dreamed that our nineteenth park would be America's least-visited national park.
Most of our national park visits involve scenic drives and hikes. Admittedly, this one was quite different. We flew through the park. What was the experience really like, and what can you expect when planning your adventure?
A flightseeing tour above the Arctic Circle requires advance planning. Northern Alaska Tour Company was founded in 1987 and has a strong track record of unparalleled experiences, so we felt comfortable partnering with them for our bucket list adventure. We found the company easy to work with and great with communication before and during our trip.
The outfit offers many adventures, including trips to Denali National Park, the Arctic Circle, and the Yukon River. Our excursion is called "Gates of the Arctic Air Adventure." It is an evening round-trip flight above the Arctic Circle through the Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve.
You can review trip options and make reservations through the company link above or by calling 800-474-1986. Northern Alaska Tour Company is located on the East Ramp of the Fairbanks International Airport, at 3820 University Avenue South, Fairbanks, AK 99709.
Gates of the Arctic National Park, Alaska, presents several challenges. The park does not contain any official roads or trails, and the weather is very unpredictable. While the best way to truly explore the park is by backpacking or floating along one of its many rivers, only those with extensive wilderness experience and survival knowledge should attempt it.
For many of us, flying through the park is the most practical option. But that comes at a cost. Prices vary depending on the timing of your visit and which adventure you choose, but it can run upwards of $700 per person.
I consider flying above the Arctic Circle a once-in-a-lifetime event. Among our travels, Julie and I rank Alaska as our favorite place due to its surreal natural beauty and unique adventures. Yes, flying through Gates of the Arctic costs considerably more than your average national park visit. However, the jaw-dropping scenery is unparalleled, and the experience is something we will never forget.
When you make reservations, the tour company will ask for your weight. This is not one of those times to give an artificially low number due to embarrassment. The pilot must balance the aircraft and ensure the total weight stays within safe limits. You may bring a bag aboard, but the maximum weight is typically five to ten pounds. Yes, they weigh your bags upon check-in.
The tour usually takes four to five hours. We advise you to use the restroom before your flight. The pilot will stop in Coldfoot, Alaska, for a restroom break and a brief ground tour. Coldfoot sits about sixty miles north of the Arctic Circle and is a gateway town to the Gates of the Arctic National Park.
Food is not included with the tour. You can order a bag lunch at check-in, and your guide will deliver it when you land in Coldfoot. Julie and I chose to do this. Although not fancy, the food was fresh, ample, and tasty. You can choose from several sandwich options and add chips, fruit, a cookie, and a drink.
The flight is nothing like a large commercial aircraft. Most tours use a 9-passenger twin-engine Navajo Chieftain. A single row of double seats lines the plane from front to back, behind the pilot. You do not need to stress about where to sit for the best view. Each passenger has a window and a spectacular view.
Because the plane is small, you will feel it bouncing in the wind. Please do not let that prevent you from this trip of a lifetime. If we can handle it, anyone can. Julie struggles with motion sickness, and I have a fear of heights. She took a Dramamine before the flight and felt fine. I was so enamored with the jaw-dropping scenery that I did not experience any issues.
While the views are fantastic, capturing quality photos is a challenge. Because our plane bounced in the wind, nearly every picture I snapped included a section of a wing or propeller.
The plane is rather loud due to the engines. Our pilot gave everyone a headset to cushion the noise and mention highlights. Although not necessarily a bad thing, do not expect to have a casual conversation with your travel partner. You will enjoy the tour but mostly communicate through smiles, thumbs up, and pointing.
Because you are flying over the Arctic Circle, it can get a bit chilly, even in summer. Dress for warmth and comfort.
I cannot think of a more appropriate name for an Alaska town than Coldfoot. It was originally a gold rush town, named in 1900 when early prospectors supposedly got "cold feet" and left before winter. To call it a town is a bit of a stretch, though. Our tour guide advised us that Coldfoot has a permanent population of two.
So, what can you see in Coldfoot? The two primary attractions are Coldfoot Camp and the Arctic Interagency Visitor Center. Coldfoot Camp is a truck stop for weary travelers on the famous Dalton Highway, a rough industrial 414-mile road from Livengood to Prudhoe Bay, some of the planet's most remote places. The Arctic Interagency Visitor Center serves as the visitor center for Gates of the Arctic National Park, Alaska.
Our guide for the ground portion of the tour greeted us at the Coldfoot Airport. Much like calling Coldfoot a town, this is being generous. I would describe it as a landing strip. We loaded into a van and received our lunch bags while she talked about the area, providing history and insightful tips.
Most tour groups go to Coldfoot Camp. Due to our strong interest in national parks, I was thrilled to see the visitor center for Gates of the Arctic National Park instead. The facility has fantastic exhibits, a theater, restrooms, and a small gift shop. We proudly got our passport stamps and purchased a Gates of the Arctic patch to officially commemorate our visit.
Our time on the ground may have totaled half an hour. However, it is the thrill of a lifetime to know we landed above the Arctic Circle and entered the Gates of the Arctic Visitor Center. Our primary goal was to see the national park, so the "Gates of the Arctic Air Adventure" was perfect. If you want to spend more time on the ground above the Arctic Circle, look at Northern Alaska Tour Company's other options.
After our ground tour, we hopped back on the plane and headed toward the park. Two iconic peaks, Frigid Crags and Boreal Mountain, form the Gates of the Arctic, the passage to the national park. It is America's second-biggest national park and one of the eight amazing Alaska national parks.
To give you a sense of how big it is, we flew through the park for over an hour and only glimpsed a third of it. Gates of the Arctic is genuinely an untouched masterpiece of nature in its most raw and pure form. It feels like a picture-perfect Bob Ross painting, with wild rivers snaking through massive valleys between snowcapped mountains. Touches of green, yellow, and red highlight the landscape here and there.
I have never seen a place so vast and beautiful in my life. The massive vista seemed to stretch into eternity. As we flew, layer after layer of mountains came into view. The park is so beautiful and surreal that it is practically beyond comprehension.
After basking in the glorious park views for over an hour, we returned to Fairbanks with euphoric smiles. The Northern Alaska Tour Company presented us with certificates to document our achievement in crossing Alaska's Arctic Circle.
Visiting the Gates of the Arctic National Park in Alaska requires more planning and money than a typical park visit. However, it is a bucket list destination with scenery, unlike anything we have seen before.
The Northern Alaska Tour Company does an outstanding job. AJ, our pilot, expertly guided us and provided meaningful insight. Although the ride was a little bouncy, we felt safe in AJ's capable hands. Everyone within Northern Alaska Tour Company was friendly, helpful, and competent, making our experience something I will always cherish.
Typically, I prefer to explore a national park by driving and hiking. It makes me feel more connected to the park. That said, Alaska's unparalleled beauty mesmerized us from the back of a cruise ship in Glacier Bay and now from a plane in Gates of the Arctic. Those are two of my fondest travel memories.
Not only was this trip a dream come true for Julie and me, but it also landed us a spot in two elite groups. We already mentioned that Gates of the Arctic was our nation's least visited national park last year. According to our Coldfoot tour guide, only about 4% of Alaska visitors travel above the Arctic Circle.
Plan your Gates of the Arctic National Park, Alaska adventure, and you will be in rare company. We welcome you with open arms.
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USA Today
11-05-2025
- USA Today
Cruise cabin math: When booking two rooms makes more sense than one
Cruise cabin math: When booking two rooms makes more sense than one Show Caption Hide Caption How to find the best price, perks when booking a cruise Find the cruise that works for your budget with these tips. Problem Solved Finding the right cruise cabin for families can be a complex decision, depending on factors like budget, family size, and children's ages. Sharing a single cabin isn't always cheaper than booking two separate rooms; two rooms offer more space and amenities, but family suites or larger cabins can be more cost-effective for larger groups. Several major cruise lines, including Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Disney, MSC, and Norwegian, offer family-friendly cabin options, ranging from connecting rooms to multi-level suites with extra amenities. 'Family Travel' is a five-part series showcasing the best experiences and destinations for young families looking for an escape. If you'd like to contribute to our future reporting and share your experience as a source, you can click here to fill out this quick form. Brian and Julie Kearns take cruises with their three children at least twice a year – but they don't always stay together. Sometimes the couple books adjacent cabins, or a balcony stateroom with another across the hall, depending on what offers the best price. They have all piled into a single five-person cabin, too, but found it to be 'extremely tight,' particularly as their kids – 14, 11 and 10 – have gotten older, according to Julie. 'They have more luggage (than when they were younger) – and they're just bigger,' said Julie, who runs the How We Cruise YouTube channel and travel agency alongside Brian. Cruise lines offer a variety of cabin options for travelers with children, but finding the right one for a given family can be a complex process. 'It's kind of like a puzzle,' said Jared Feldman, owner of travel agency Jafeldma Travel. 'How does it best fit?' Here's what travelers should know. What cabin configurations do cruise lines have for families? Standard cruise cabins can typically accommodate a maximum of four guests (though some can fit five). Cabins accommodating three, four or five guests have a mattress that can be split into two twin beds, along with a pull-out sofa or a Pullman bed that pulls down from the ceiling or out from the wall, according to Feldman. Brian Kearns added that depending on the cruise line and type of cabin guests are in, they could have one or the other or a combination. Julie noted that as more cruise lines have cut stateroom cleaning back from twice to once a day in recent years, she has noticed that those aren't necessarily tucked back away like they were previously. 'If you're coming back into the room to change for dinner or take a rest or whatever you're doing, you have lost all that space that you might have had years ago,' she said. Cruise lines also offer connecting staterooms and family cabins. Feldman likened the latter category to a junior suite. Julie Kearns said staying in a Family Infinite Ocean View Balcony room on Royal Caribbean International's Icon of the Seas last year, which has a separate bunk room for kids, was a 'game changer.' However, Feldman warned that not all ships have family category cabins, and they tend to sell out quickly on the ones that do. Older ships, which typically have fewer activities such as rock climbing walls and go-karts, are less likely to have family-centric staterooms. Cruise lines also offer a wide range of suites, ranging from suped-up cabins with a bit of extra room to multi-level spaces that resemble houses rather than the typical accommodations at sea. Those include the three-level Ultimate Family Townhouse aboard Icon, and the EPCOT-inspired Tomorrow Tower Suite on Disney Cruise Line's newest ship, Disney Treasure. Like the Kearns have done, families could split into different rooms, as well, depending on the age of their children. Carnival Cruise Line, for example, requires passengers 14 and under to be in the same cabin or a connecting room as a relative or guardian at least 25 years old, according to its website. Teenagers between 15 and 17 can be booked no more than three staterooms away from those adults. Is it cheaper for families to share a cruise cabin? Not necessarily. Depending on the cruise line, itinerary, cabin category and other factors, splitting a room isn't always the better deal. 'Sometimes two double-occupancy staterooms can cost less than a quad-occupancy stateroom,' said Feldman. 'There are times it can cost a little bit more, but even when it does cost a little bit more, you have to realize what you're getting out of it.' Two rooms offer twice the living space and double the bathrooms, he noted. 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The line's upcoming ship, Carnival Festivale, will have 1,000 interconnecting rooms, the most of any vessel in its fleet. Carnival's Family Harbor Staterooms & Suites on Excel and Vista Class ships also offer guests additional space and perks like access to the Family Harbor Lounge, where they will find snacks, board games, video games and more. Connecting rooms are available for all of Carnival's stateroom types. The line's upcoming ship, Carnival Festivale, will have 1,000 interconnecting rooms, the most of any vessel in its fleet. Carnival's Family Harbor Staterooms & Suites on Excel and Vista Class ships also offer guests additional space and perks like access to the Family Harbor Lounge, where they will find snacks, board games, video games and more. Royal Caribbean: The cruise line offers a wide range of interior, ocean view and balcony cabins, in addition to suites. There are more than 20 accommodation types on its newest ship, Utopia of the Seas, alone. 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Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at ndiller@
Buzz Feed
01-05-2025
- Buzz Feed
36 Random Products Because The Countdown To Summer Starts *Now*
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I'm pretty sure these are the same ones!" — Shawna Hathaway Get a pair from Amazon for $49.99+ (available in three sizes). 16. A popular Eos body lotion beloved by reviewers for its lightweight formula, boasting a blend of skin-loving oils and moisturizing shea butter that leaves your skin silky smooth. It's constantly on Amazon's "Trending Best Sellers" for its obsession-worthy smell and 24 hours of hydration, which will come in handy when your legs, arms, shoulders, etc. are out this summer! The most popular scent is their vanilla cashmere, which boasts notes of whipped vanilla, musk, and caramel. Other scents include "coconut waters" (notes of creamy coconut hibiscus) and "fresh and dewy" (a light blend of musk and cassis). Promising review:"Love this lotion. It is very thick and hydrating. Easy to apply. My skin feels very moisturized after application. The smell is definitely the best part. I have sensitive skin, so I struggle to find scented lotion that I like, but this one has not caused any flare-ups on my skin." — Jaquelin g. Get it from Amazon for $8.98 (available in four scents). 17. Essence's Lash Princess False Lash Waterproof Mascara — yes, a version of that internet-famous mascara — because it boasts a waterproof (read: sweatproof) formula that delivers the look of voluminous falsies without the painstaking process of gluing to apply and the fear of your lashes flying off when you're driving with the windows down. Amazon Promising review:"I LOVE THIS MASCARA!! It has been Louisiana hot, humid weather tested and I did not wind up with raccoon eyes! I bought the waterproof version and am very pleased with it! I just bought some for my best friend, who is a dirt racer, to wear when she races! This came in a sealed plastic overlay. It was easy to remove with a facial wipe. So after previously spending big bucks on the 'fancy big name brands,' I found this gem and am very happy with it." — Bootlegger Get it from Amazon for $4.99. 18. A pair of retro-chic double-bar aviators designed with polarized lenses to effectively block out the sun and reflective glares, keeping your eyes protected in style. I definitely won't judge you for nabbing more than one pair of these to complement your favorite warm weather styles, but I doubt you'll even let these out of your sight! Promising review: "Absolutely have become my favorite pair of sunglasses, and I have many pairs. Very trendy and quite affordable. I am shocked at how durable they are for the price point. My sunglasses take a beating on my head, thrown in my bag, and I usually break them in no time, but these have stood up to my normal wear. They offer solid sun protection but not super dark, which I love. They fit the face very well, not oversized and huge but just right for me. Love them!" — NittanyLion Get it from Amazon for $15.99 (available in 10 colors). 19. An air purifier with an effective HEPA-grade filter that's just perfect for anyone currently suffering through the "pollening" this spring, which we know is just a precursor to another summer of surviving hay fever (there should be an award). Worry less about dander, dust, pollen, and other allergens while this super-quiet gadget does the work of removing it for you! Promising review:"This product is amazing. We do cat I'll just leave it at that. It immediately changed the smell in our home. No more smell unless it's immediately after someone uses a box. Air just smells cleaner, fresher. We started with one and bought two more!" — M. Otto Get it from Amazon for $89.99 (available in black and white). 20. An easy-to-use tie-dye kit because it's finally time to get back outside, and what better way than getting a little crafty with some DIY? This kit includes everything you need — rubber bands, dyes, gloves, and guides — to customize tees, hoodies, shorts, and more, so you can sport a unique style all summer long! Promising review: "Bought these as an activity for teenagers. Dye color is vibrant and beautiful. We first made the designs using the provided directions and rubber bands, then dry died the shirts. We left the shirts in bags for 24 hrs and then washed them outside with a hose to not get the ink/dye all over. We then let the shirts dry outside in the sun, then we rinse and dried them in the washer, then washed them and dried them again. Color has stayed beautifully and kids love the shirts!" — Ariss M Get it from Amazon for $24.74+ (also available in a 36-pack). 21. The Ninja Slushi, which has been all over my FYP and IG reels because clearly everyone else is counting down to summer, too! It's designed with RapidChill technology, so you can customize and mix frozen bevvies — no ice necessary! Make every Monday a #margaritamonday, enjoy a Frappé Friday, or Slushi Saturday from the comfort of your kitchen or back deck. 😭 The Ninja Slushi can hold up to 88 oz. of liquid and is designed with five preset programs and temperature control to adjust thickness. All beverages need some sort of sugar (like honey, coconut sugar, or products made with syrup or fruit juice), alcohol, or the sugar-free substitute allulose in order to properly slush! Promising review: " This is a need and not a want. If you have been debating on getting one or have seen any reviews with smiles across social media, just go ahead. We've had our machine since mid-February and it's being used daily, even if it's cold out. So far, I've made both sugar-infused, sugar-free, and adult drinks without issue... The possibilities are endless with this machine. From Coke slushies to margaritas to milkshakes to frappé to frozen electrolyte drinks. It's for the entire family from young to old. Great machine for everyday use or in the summer months around the pool or even parties. It's not a big as you think either... The footprint is thinner than my mixer and just a tad bit taller and deeper. It's an appliance that can stay out on the counter." — Jennifer F. Get it from Amazon for $319.99+ (available in two styles). 22. A two-pack of dark spot fading bar soap with a revitalizing and hydrating blend of retinol, hyaluronic acid, shea butter, turmeric, and vitamins C and E for a hydrating cleanse to help even skin tone and reduce dark spots on your face, neck, and body if that's something you're looking to do. Say buh-bye to buying swim shorts if your inner thighs bother you (they certainly don't need to, we're pro embracing your dark spots!) — and either way, hello to bikini season! Promising review:"I'm big, so my inner thighs have always been darker than the other parts of my legs. I've tried other products for it but nothing has worked. I HAVE BEEN USING THIS SOAP FOR THREE DAYS AND OMG!!!! My inner thighs are SMOOTHER, and they are ALMOST THE SAME COLOR AS THE OTHER PARTS OF MY LEGS, I'M SO SO SO HAPPY!!!! I hate that I didn't take a before picture but trust me!!!! BUY IT!!!! My face also looks brighter and fresher, agghhh!!" — Daphney Get it from Amazon for $14.99. 23. A bottle of signature Fur Oil for softening and cleansing pubic hair and skin to help tackle those pesky ingrowns and deliver more moisturized and smoother skin below the belt. Lots of reviewers nabbed this on recommendation from their go-to wax professionals and swear by using it in their post-wax routine! Promising reviews:"I am prone to ingrown hairs. I have VERY coarse pubic hair and every time I shave, I get razor bumps and ingrown hairs as the hair starts to grow back. Very embarrassing. This has led me to lean more toward trimming that shaving. I decided to try to shave one more time — well, I used Nair and removed my pubic hair from my genital area. I used Fur Oil every day morning and night after the removal, and even as the hair grows back and beyond. I would also exfoliate the area about two to three times a week with a coffee scrub that I got on here. The hair has started to grow back with zero bumps or ingrown hairs. It has actually been over a month and still no issues. This has never happened to me before. I have never not removed hair down there and not had ingrown hairs and hair bumps. This is a new experience for me, and I am loving it. I have even removed hair again since then and still no problems. My only complaint is the size of the bottle, and the smell is so-so. It is a very small bottle for the price. I will continue to use this combination of products, though, because I know it works. I am satisfied." — In the know "Recommended to me by my waxer. I was a little hesitant at first because it's pretty expensive, but I haven't had a single ingrown hair since using this oil. I am diligent on application of the oil, and it's been great. It lasts — I've been using it for about two months, and there's still a ton in the bottle." — Megan Harmeyer Get it from Amazon for $29.99+ (available in two sizes). 24. A longline padded tank that's basically an affordable alternative to your fave Lululemon top! It's got a supportive design that can be worn from the gym to brunch with the besties and on your post-meal errands. Plus, it's lightweight, so you'll be comfortable wearing it solo at home or layered up on the go. Promising review:"LOVE. It is super comfortable to wear and is great for supporting my chest when I go on a run. Doesn't collect sweat, very nice and cool material for hotter environments. I have it is so many colors because I love them so much. HIGHLY recommend!" — Cheyenne Get it from Amazon for $22.99 (available in women's sizes XS–XXL and 29 colors). 25. A screen-cleaning brush so you 🎵 can see clearly now 🎵 through your mesh screen covered with bug carcasses, dirt, and other things from nature that have gotten stuck. You can use it wet or dry and simply swipe it across the screen to clean! Promising review: "Our screens are on a second-floor balcony. There really isn't any good way to clean the outside of the screens. Luckily, the fibers on this screen cleaner are small enough that they seem to fit through the screen and clean both sides. I'm sure it doesn't clean the outside as well as it does the inside, but any help is always appreciated. I was actually shocked at how much dirt came off of the screens with this very simple tool. I used it wet with a small amount of dish soap, and it worked really well. I also appreciated that after I was finished I was just easily able to rinse and dry the screen cleaner for future use. A simple tool at an excellent price." — BonjourBeautyByAmy Get it from Amazon for $20.99. 26. An Owala FreeSip tumbler — it boasts triple-layer insulation to keep your ice-cold beverages chilled all 👏 day 👏 long! 👏 A built-in straw allows you to sip your favorite bevvie or tilt it back and chug away without worrying about a spill. Promising reviews: "I've tried them all, and this is hands-down the best water bottle!! I love that I can use it with the built-in straw or use it as a open water bottle just depending on how I tip it while drinking. It's seriously perfect. My husband has been using a Stanley for four years and switched to this after seeing mine. No more leaking or spilling." — rowleypolie "Without a doubt, everyone has heard the uproar over huge insulated cup brands using lead to make their cups. If that is a concern for you, then there is no need to worry about this one. This cup is made lead-free and works phenomenally! I always put ice in my Owala with my water and notice that all the ice is still there over a span of 48 hours and still freezing cold." — DietDrKelp069 Get a 24-ounce tumbler from Amazon for $27.94+ (available in 22 colors and three other sizes). 27. A bottle of Nyx matte setting spray because you want to be confident that your makeup actually makes it to *and* through the day without worrying about sweating, crying, or wiping it off. You're going to depend on this for those 90-degree daytime functions! Promising review:"Expensive isn't always better. I tried this spray before spending the day outdoors in 90-degree heat at Disneyland, and the only place my makeup moved was on the tip of my nose because I have allergies and use a lot of tissues. But otherwise it looked as fresh as it did when I put it on. I've used Mac and Urban Decay setting spray and they never worked as well as this stuff. I am completely amazed. Definitely give it a try." — DH Get it from Amazon for $9.97+ (available in two sizes, and also dewy and radiant finishes). 28. An internet-famed Bum Bum Body Cream that boasts a blend of caffeine-packed guarana extract and coconut oil to help *visibly* firm and moisturize skin, so you can step out this season feeling as confident as ever. And it won't hurt that it also smells ah-may-zing with creamy, delectable notes of salted caramel, pistachio, and vanilla! ✨ Caffeine has a number of skincare benefits, including brightening and temporarily reducing the appearance of stretch marks and cellulite, if that's something you're looking to do! You can read more about the skincare benefits of caffeine at the Cleveland Clinic. Promising reviews: "This Bum Bum cream is a winner! You will not be disappointed. It smells wonderfully awesome. :-)" — Dianne Doering "Like so many, I was brainwashed by TikTok into buying this rather expensive I bought one for my mom and one for my sister and five more for myself as they became harder to find. My favorite thing about it is the smell. Lightly tropical/coconutty but nothing overwhelming. Every time I wear it people say, 'What are you WEARING?' like I have some amazing perfume on. Besides that, it really is a great moisturizer. I'm not usually a sucker for marketing but this was so worth it." — Kristen Get it from Amazon for $24+ (available in three sizes). 29. A pair of slip-on pointed-toe ballet flats to make you feel like you're walking on cloud nine with a comfy memory foam insole. Plus, they're machine washable, so you never have to worry about wearing sweaty, smelly flats to work this summer! Even though they are machine washable, these flats are air dry only! BTW — these a much more affordable option to the popular Rothy's and Vivaia styles if you're trying to stick to a budget! Promising reviews:"They are SO comfortable and breathable, and my poor footsies are ruined from wearing heels every day when I was younger. These look fabulous and feel great. What a great find! I'm gonna have to buy them in another color now." — JeGo "I love these shoes. So comfortable and stylish AND the dreaded stinky flats can be avoided as they are fully washable. I've washed them several times now and they come out looking brand new every time." — Marie Get it from Amazon for $32.99 (available in women's sizes 6–10 and 14 styles). 31. Neutrogena's Ultra Sheer Moisturizing Face SPF 60 Serum — it's a top-rated moisturizing primer, boasting a lightweight, nongreasy formula that effortlessly absorbs into your skin without leaving an ashy-looking white cast behind. So it's absolutely perfect for wearing solo or underneath your makeup to keep your skin protected from harmful UV rays while you're out enjoying cold bevvies on all the patios this summer! Amazon, Promising review:"I've gone through several sunscreens to wear with make-up and this has been the best for me. I'm a simple girl. I apply this with vitamin C cream, let it absorb then apply my It Cosmetics CC cream. It acts like a primer for me, and my CC glides nicely over it, no pilling, no heavy or cakey feeling. It's def lightweight but provides great protection." — Emily Haynes Get it from Amazon for $14.88. 32. Aquaphor's popular lip protectant, which works double duty as a sunscreen with SPF 30 to help soothe and repair dry, chapped lips while still keeping them protected from harmful UV rays! At under $5, you'll want to keep one of these in every purse, fanny pack, and jacket pocket you own this summer! Because this is made with Broad Spectrum SPF 30, it meets the AAD Guidelines! Promising review: " I used this every day 2–3 times a day in the Florida sun. This worked for me fantastic. I cannot use typical balms with sunscreen, so I decided to try this because I love regular Aquaphor for chapped lips." — jeanie Get it from Amazon for $4.76. 33. A sporty-chic romper dress that combines function and style with a mini dress silhouette and built-in shorts. This will keep you comfortable on those 80 degree days when your bestie calls you up for a spontaneous midday picnic at the park. And the price is so right, you might want to grab several colors! Promising review:"I absolutely love this romper dress!! It is so incredibly comfortable and cute! I have gotten so many compliments when I wear it out! It is a great quality material and is so universal that it can be worn for a variety of events! You can dress it up or wear it casually and be active in it! It has large/deep pockets that are great for keys/small wallets. I bought a cropped white tank to go underneath it, which completed the look! There is a full-body romper with shorts that is fitted but not too tight or restricting. It is the perfect length and it's straps are not uncomfortable at all! The color is so perfect and looks exactly like the picture! I would buy this again and again!!" — Hannah Montag Get it from Amazon for $26.99 (available in women's sizes XS–XXL and 24 colors). 34. A pack of semi-cured gel nail strips designed to cure and harden with literal sunlight — I don't think something could be *more* summery than that! Simply apply and trim the individual gel strips onto your nails, and let the magic happen right before your eyes (or use a classic UV lamp, your choice). It's never been easier getting a fresh mani! Each set comes with 28 nail strips, a nail file, wooden cuticle stick, and a prep pad. If you do choose to cure with a UV/LED lamp, it only takes five seconds! Here's what BuzzFeed Shopping editor Bek O'Connell has to say about these:"I struggle with stick-on nails because they always look too big and clunky (think: child with olives on their fingertips). I'm unwilling to file down my nail beds to get them to sit right, so I usually opt for traditional gel manicures, even though they're expensive. These strips are a fantastic replacement: They're affordable, easy to apply, and actually look like a real manicure. It's too cold to go outside without gloves right now, so I cured these with a UV lamp, and they came out great! If you have experience with stickers, you can master these — I believe in you!" Promising review: "I am loving this brand! Beautiful color. Last for about 10 days before starting to chip. These don't snag in my hair either like other brands I've tried. Fit great. Enough for two applications." — KAS Get them from Amazon for $13.99 (available in 14 styles). 35. An acne-clearing lotion specifically for your bum that features an anti-bacterial and moisturizing formula with tea tree oil to help reduce breakouts. Treat your booty to some TLC because it's finally time for daisy dukes, short shorts, bikini bottoms, and other revealing pieces that show off your favorite ass -et! Read more about how tea tree oil can help with acne from Mayo Clinic. Promising review:"This product works, but takes time! I have really bad stubborn acne on my butt and thighs... this product did not clear them up right away, considering I have bad acne so that was to be expected. I am now on week three and am finally noticing a difference in the acne. It is actually mostly clear! if you are willing to wait for the results then this is a good product for you. I noticed if you stop using (which I did for a period of time) the acne does come back! So I would use for awhile after skin has healed as well. This is definitely needed for summer time! Thank you so much for making this product, seems to be the only thing that worked for me!" — Anonymous Get it from Amazon for $24.99. 36. A pair of subtle yet stylish slip-on sneakers designed with a breathable knit material and antimicrobial lining that helps kill bacteria and prevent shoe odors. Stroll through farmers markets, brewery tastings, and weekend gallery hops in these ultra-comfy, lightweight sneakers that'll take you from spring to fall. These even come in inclusive quarter sizes! Atoms is a Brooklyn-based, South Asian-founded small business specializing in comfortable, everyday shoes. Promising review: "I love my Model 000 white sneakers. The first time I wore them was on a trip, and I wore them for two days straight. There was no break-in required. They are my new favorite shoes! They are lightweight but provide good support, too. I washed them, and they came out looking brand new, and they dried really fast." — Julia W. Get it from Atoms for $145 (available in women's sizes 5–16.5 with quarter-size increments, men's sizes 3.5–15 with quarter-size increments, and 16 colors). Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.
Yahoo
07-04-2025
- Yahoo
Flowing beauty: iconic East Coast waterfalls for your bucket list
There is something about a waterfall that soothes the soul. The combination of natural beauty and raw power draws us in like a moth to the light. Julie and I love chasing waterfalls so much that we jump at the chance to trek any path leading to a cascading natural wonder. If you enjoy the chase as much as we do, we have a list of stunning waterfalls on the East Coast you have to see. You may think Niagara Falls is the tallest waterfall in the United States due to all the attention it receives. It is far from it. While many more towering waterfalls have a limited volume of flowing water, Niagara Falls has 6 million cubic feet of water spilling over its edge each minute. Exceeding 176 feet in height in some sections, the combination of height and volume is mesmerizing. The iconic waterfall boasts a namesake town in both New York and Ontario. It comprises three waterfalls. Horseshoe Falls, often called Canadian Falls, is the largest. The other two are American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls. You can see the natural wonder on the New York side of the border in America's oldest state park, Niagara Falls State Park. I suggest experiencing the full power of the falls by taking the Maid of the Mist boat tour. You will get a close view and a proper drenching. Do not fret. The tour includes a poncho. Getting so close to one of America's most iconic natural wonders is something Julie and I will never forget. Not only was it a blast, it was our first adventure when we decided to leave the corporate world to lead a life of travel and adventure. Located northwest of Ithaca, home to Ivy League school Cornell University, Taughannock Falls is a 215-foot plunging waterfall. The natural wonder sits in Taughannock Falls State Park, another fantastic New York state park. Forested trails along the rim and gorge lead you directly to the main attraction. I suggest the gorge trail, which spills out at the base of the falls. The rewarding hike takes you through the forest on a wide, mostly-level dog-friendly trail. Julie and I agree the hike is worthwhile even without the waterfall. However, the single-drop waterfall captures the essence of beauty and power, a treasure at the rainbow's end. You get so close to the action that you can feel the powerful mist move through the gorge. It is sure to paint a smile on your face as you stare in admiration. Affectionately dubbed the Grand Canyon of the East, Letchworth State Park in western New York showcases dozens of waterfalls along a deep gorge carved by the coursing Genesee River. Three primary waterfalls steal the spotlight. Upper and Lower Falls each measure about 70 feet tall, while Middle Falls is 107 feet. Julie and I love how the trails deliver a blend of forest and canyon scenery, each breathtaking. Of course, the three significant falls are the highlight. The Genesee Arch Bridge in the backdrop feels like you stepped into a picture-perfect painting. Best of all, you can customize your day with short hikes or a lengthy, challenging trek as you explore all the park offers. They say good things come in small packages. That is certainly the case with Watkins Glen State Park. The 778-acre paradise features 19 waterfalls and 200-foot cliffs along one of the most rewarding hikes in the United States. Although the entire park is lovely, Rainbow Falls and Triple Cascade steal the show. Julie and I love this park because the primary trail leads you over, under, and behind numerous waterfalls. You get close enough to the action for water to splash on your skin. Even though you must navigate various sets of stairs, the beauty of the cliff walls, stone bridges, and cascading waterfalls will have you floating on clouds of bliss. The park nestles in New York's breathtaking Finger Lakes Region. After a day of chasing waterfalls, you can sip a glass of wine while basking in the glow of the sprawling vineyards and tranquil lakes. It is one of our favorite areas to vacation due to the combination of outdoor recreation and relaxation. Greene County, located in upstate New York's Catskill Mountains, boasts many beautiful natural attractions. Kaaterskill Falls, the area's crown jewel, cascades in two tiers during its 260-foot descent into a pool. Legends say many Native Americans consider Kaaterskill Falls the creator's resting place. To experience the falls close up, you must take a 1.4-mile round-trip hike. Surrounded by the beautiful Catskills, the hike is easily worth the effort. Nestled in the heart of the White Mountains National Forest, Franconia Notch State Park is one of New Hampshire's top attractions for a reason. An 8-mile scenic drive takes you over the hills and through the woods between peaceful Echo Lake and the park's highlight, Flume Gorge. This waterfall is more about the overall journey that takes you through a mix of stunning scenery. As you navigate the 2-mile loop trail, you will discover lush forests, towering granite walls, and two covered bridges. The waterfall is more subtle, dropping in a series of short cascades. However, the hike is so rewarding, and the scenery is so stunning that the waterfall easily makes the list. Beyond its acclaim as one of America's top scenic drives for fall foliage, New Hampshire's Kancamagus Highway houses many treasures along its stops and overlooks. While Julie and I enjoyed every mile of the breathtaking drive, Sabbaday Falls is a treasure. A 0.3-mile hike takes you along a set of stairs for a view of the entire waterfall from the gorge to the rim. From the moment we heard rushing water and saw mossy boulders, we knew we were in for a treat before we reached the stairs. The trail yields excellent views from above and throughout the length of the cascade. Although only 35 feet tall, New Hampshire's beautiful landscapes make for a heightened experience. Pembroke, Virginia, offers an easy to moderate 4-mile loop, along which you will discover an alluring 66-foot waterfall gushing over a cliff and thundering into a vast pool. You can hike the lower trail along the gorge or the upper trail along the rim. I suggest the more scenic gorge trail, which follows a meandering mountain stream. The lovely hike culminates in a big payoff with the aptly named Cascade Falls. The highest waterfall east of the Rocky Mountains, Upper Whitewater Falls in Cashiers, North Carolina, is 411 feet. Interestingly, its sister, Lower Whitewater Falls, measures 400 feet but is accessed in South Carolina. Julie and I recently visited the natural wonder during a road trip to explore the Carolinas. For your reference, Upper Whitewater Falls is a 1.5-hour drive from Asheville. A short hike on an inclined, paved path is required to reach the viewing area. If you want an even better vantage point, you can descend 154 stairs to an observation platform. Although the climb back up left us winded, the view is worthwhile. Less than an hour's drive from Asheville, Dupont State Recreational Forest's hiking trails feature splendid waterfalls and lush forests. The park's star attraction is High Falls, a powerful 120-foot waterfall. Julie and I love this park. The forested hiking trails reward you with tons of natural beauty. Triple Falls, Hooker Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls are extraordinary in their own right, making the park worth exploring further. We discovered various treasures along the way, including unique vantage points and a covered bridge. If you need another reason to visit Dupont State Recreational Forest, filmmakers shot scenes for The Last of the Mohicans and The Hunger Games here. The Blue Ridge Parkway, "America's Favorite Drive," rewards travelers with many delightful experiences. One of those rewards is Looking Glass Falls, near Brevard, North Carolina. A short drive on US 276, just off the Blue Ridge Parkway, grants roadside access to the striking 60-foot single-drop waterfall surrounded by rock coated with bright green moss. The short detour from the Blue Ridge Parkway winds through the lush Pisgah National Forest. If your schedule allows, the forest holds other attractions, including Moore Cove Falls and Pink Beds, named for the colorful rhododendron and mountain laurel that carpet the area in spring. You can see most of Looking Glass Falls from an observation platform near the road. I recommend the under-half-mile round-trip hike to the base of the falls for a firsthand account. You won't regret it. We must admire many waterfalls from a distance. Some allow us to get close. Occasionally, Mother Nature will enable us to walk behind a waterfall. Dry Falls near Highlands, North Carolina, is one of those rare gifts. The remarkable 75-foot waterfall plunges over a cliff in the Nantahala National Forest. There is enough distance to stay dry (hence the name) while enjoying the spectacular view. During or shortly after a rainfall, you may get splashed by the overpowering spray. Trust me, you won't mind. When we think of the East Coast, we often picture big cities or sprawling beaches. However, the region offers scenic drives and rewarding hikes with stunning waterfalls. If you enjoy chasing waterfalls, visit our favorites along the East Coast. There is nothing quite like the feel of mist on your face when admiring a cascading natural wonder. Head to the East Coast and let the chase begin!
