Christopher Hall

Contributing Writer, Via

Inside the cabin of a large airplane

How to Stay Comfortable on Long Flights

Here are a few tips to make extra-long plane flights less taxing.
the active tide pools at Fitzgerald Marine Reserve in Moss Beach, San Mateo County, California.

Scenic Outings on the San Mateo County Coast

Venture out to the San Mateo County coast for stunning scenes along Highway 1.
view of the unique rock formations in Lake Powell, Utah

The Best Lakes for Summer Fun in the West

For a day at the beach, head inland! Discover scenic lakes with sandy shores and water activities.
highway 1 running alongside a beach near Half Moon Bay, California

Scenic Coastal Drives from Destination Cities

Leave the city behind for a day of natural beauty and scenic splendor.
A couple walks Taylor Creek Loop in South Lake Tahoe, California.

Best Places to See Fall Color in the West

From the Sierra to the Sawtooth National Forest, here’s where to see fall foliage in all its glory.
A trail winds through the trees to Shady Dell in Mendocino, California.

Hiking the Peter Douglas Trail to Shady Dell in Mendocino County

Here's how to access a spectacular parcel of beachfront forest.
Hanna House on Stanford Campus in California.

California's Hanna House

Frank Lloyd Wright designed a home so radical it rejuvenated his career and domestic architecture.
Big Ben and Houses of Parliament in London, image

Should You Visit London or Paris?

Europe’s top destinations remain locked in rivalry as they vie for your heart—and vacation time.
Hoover Dam under overcast skies, image

Visiting Boulder City and the Hoover Dam

History lives on in Boulder City, Nevada, the town built to support the Hoover Dam.
Pie at Noble Folk Ice Cream & Pie Bar in Healdsburg, California, picture

Sonoma County Eats for Any Palate

California's wine country has a variety of dishes to satisfy all your cravings.
Metal sculptures along the Neon Line in Reno, Nevada.

Reno, Nevada: Exploring the Biggest Little City in the World

There’s never been more to see and do in Reno.
the view of Half Dome and Yosemite Valley from Glacier Point in Yosemite National Park, picture

Insider’s Guide to 6 Top National Parks

Experience the splendor of six beloved national parks of the West with these insider tips.
the ocean spray hits Cape Perpetua Scenic Area in Oregon, picture

The 11 Most Beautiful Places on the Pacific Coast

These magnificent spots showcase the wonder of the West Coast.
visitor takes in panoramic, view of snow-capped Canadian Rockies from Sulphur Mountain at Banff in Alberta, picture

Winter Weekend Getaway to Banff, Alberta

A winter weekend in Banff, Alberta, means there’s something for everyone.
hikers in the Coachella Valley Preserve's Thousand Palms Oasis, picture

4 Ideal Winter Desert Destinations

The West offers no shortage of glorious desert landscapes for winter hikes.