Jennifer Brooks-Parker
Jennifer Brooks-Parker is a writer, musician, photographer, and traveler based in the Midwest and Pacific Northwest. With a multidisciplinary creative background and extensive firsthand exploration of both regions, Jennifer covers local culture, outdoor destinations, and off-the-beaten-path experiences for Only In Your State with the authentic perspective of someone who lives the adventure she writes about.
This Scenic Alaska Hike Is Even Better in the Winter
Those who brave this hike will discover towering rock formations, sweeping winter views, and even a detour to hot springs.
This Scenic Wyoming Waterfall Hike Is Even Better in the Winter
Those who make the hike to this frozen waterfall will find a 120-foot cascade that's just as gorgeous as it is in spring—no spikes needed.
7 Trending Rentals in Southern California That People Book on Repeat (And We See Why)
From beachy bungalows to desert oases, Southern California has no shortage of stunning vacation rentals, but guests return to these time and time again.
Only the Brave Attempt This Claustrophobic Hike in Washington
It's cold, it's dark, and it's not even big enough to stand up in. But it's also one of the most unique volcanic remnants in the state.
10 Trending Rentals in Alaska That People Book on Repeat (And We See Why)
Don't take our word for it. The reviews speak for themselves.
Only the Brave Attempt This Claustrophobic Hike in Oregon
Oregon may not be known for slot canyon hikes the way the Southwest is, but this volcanic fissure is a tight squeeze worth checking out.
Only the Brave Attempt This Claustrophobic Hike in Montana
Shimmying through this narrow, water-worn canyon in Western Montana will lead you to a whole world of hiking opportunities.
5 Candlelit Restaurants in Oregon Perfect for a Cozy Night Out
From a candlelit cabin in the trees to a warm and artsy Spanish kitchen, everything tastes better when enjoyed by candlelight.
The Spectacular 9-Mile Trail in Point Mugu State Park That’s Worth the Incline
There’s going to be beautiful wildflowers, spectacular ocean and mountain views, and maybe some deer. And possibly some sore muscles, too.
The One Oregon Airbnb You Need To Book for Epic Dark Sky Views
You don't have to hoof it through Oregon's backcountry to enjoy the beauty of the night sky. Perched on a scenic hilltop and just minutes from Oregon's original International Dark Sky Park, this cozy getaway has stellar nighttime (and daytime) views from every room.
The Steep, but Epic, 4-Mile Trail in the Kenai Wilderness That’s Worth the Climb
From 40-plus-mile backpacking trips to thigh-busting day climbs on exposed mountain ridges, Alaska has no shortage of epic hikes. But if you're looking for an adventure that will push your vertical limits without having to break out the overnight gear, this is it.
The One Wyoming Airbnb You Need To Book for Unforgettable Dark Sky Views
With views like these, you'll never want to sleep in a square house again.
The Epic 9-Mile Trail in Northern California That’s Worth the Sweat
Northern California is a confluence of wonders if there ever was one, and this 9-mile hike shows off some of its most majestic highlights.
The Epic 8-Mile Trail in the West Cascades That’s Worth the Sweat
This popular, leg-burning climb is relatively short, but unyieldingly steep. There's a reason why so many die-hard backpackers use it to prepare to climb Rainier.
The One Southern California Airbnb You Need To Book for Mesmerizing Dark Sky Views
Dark skies and bright stars are two of the main attractions at this desert oasis, but the views aren't just limited to after the sun goes down.
The One Montana Airbnb You Need to Book for Epic Dark Sky Views
Panoramic mountain views, a million stars overhead, and show-stopping luxury are just the start of what you'll find at this remote mountaintop getaway.
The One Alaska Airbnb You Need To Book for Unforgettable Dark Sky Views
You don't have to hoof it through Alaska's backcountry to enjoy the beauty of the night sky. Tucked away in the trees and just minutes from Anchorage, this cozy getaway has stellar dark sky views from every room.
The Epic 5-Mile Trail in Yellowstone National Park Worth the Climb
America's First National Park may not be a hidden gem, but there are still plenty of surprises just waiting to be discovered.
The Ultimate Fall Adventure Awaits With These 3 Haunted Places in Montana
For a very specific brand of fearless traveler, fall can only mean one thing: Spooky season has finally arrived. And what's spookier than history?
You Can Stay in an Over-The-Top, Town-Sized Hotel in Wyoming
Pull up and stay awhile. Have some pancakes. Buy a stuffed penguin. The open road can wait.
No One Knows Why This Haunted Oregon State Park Was Abandoned
Oregon has more ghost towns than any other state in the U.S., but their populations are often far from zero. The residents just aren't from the land of the living.
You Can Stay in a Private Jet Airbnb in Alaska
Epic first-class views and miles of legroom. How's that for luxury?
Beaverhead Rock Is an Underrated Montana State Park That Will Pleasantly Surprise You This Fall
Montana's least-visited state park may be small, but it's actually a pretty prominent piece of history.
Escape to These Charming Mountain Towns in Montana Before Fall Ends
Tucked at the base of Montana’s most iconic mountain ranges and scattered around their valleys are countless tiny communities that boast larger-than-life autumn views.
Escape to These Charming Mountain Towns in Alaska Before Fall Ends
Weaving through wooded valleys, lining quiet mountain roads, and lighting up the horizon with fiery hues, autumn's best colors can often be found in the most unexpected places.
Escape to These Charming Mountain Towns in Wyoming Before Fall Ends
Nestled in quiet valleys and tucked against the base of many of Wyoming's most beautiful peaks, these overlooked mountain towns offer stunning autumn beauty without the crowds.
The Small Town in Alaska That Looks Straight Out of “Stranger Things”
Alaska is full of abandoned towns and mysterious places, but this secluded community is a little "stranger" than most.
This Campground in Wyoming Is Peak Fall Vibes
Fall foliage and secret scenic surprises await at this unassuming campground, which is surrounded by mountains on all sides.
Underrated National Forest Hikes in Alaska That Rival Denali’s Big Three
Alaska is full of bucket list hikes, but you don't have to flock to the state's most popular trails and parks to enjoy breathtaking scenery. The state's national forests are hiding some pretty impressive trails as well.
Underrated National Forest Hikes in Wyoming That Rival Cascade Canyon
Wyoming is full of bucket list hikes, but you don't have to flock to the state's most popular parks and trails to enjoy breathtaking scenery.
10 State Park Beaches in Alaska To Visit Before Summer Is Over
With 34,000 miles of coastline, Alaska has more than its fair share of incredible beaches, from unique black sand surf spots to icy shorelines that boast glacier views.
Underrated National Forest Hikes in Montana That Rival Glacier’s Highline Trail
Montana is full of bucket list hikes, but you don't have to flock to the state's most popular parks and trails to enjoy breathtaking scenery.
10 State Park Beaches in Southern California to Visit to Close Out Summer
With 840 miles of coastline, California has more than its fair share of great beaches, but SoCal tops the charts when it comes to dreamy coastal beauty.
The 10 Best State Park Beaches in Washington To Visit To Close Out Summer
Summer is drawing to a close, but if you didn’t take full advantage of everything that Washington's waterfront hotspots have to offer, never fear! These crowd-free state parks have beaches for days.
Can’t Make It to Patagonia? Try This Washington Alternative
Ancient glaciers, snow-streaked mountain valleys, and breathtaking views await hikers on this challenging mountain trail in Washington—no passport needed.
Adventure’s Calling: This Remote Hiking Trail in Wyoming Is Ideal for Discovering Ancient Hoodoos
Get up close and personal with some of Wyoming's coolest off-the-radar rock formations on this short and sweet interpretive trail that you've probably never heard of.
Cool Off in Oregon’s Most Magical Indoor Forest at This “Treerific” Portland Museum
Nature lovers will find plenty to fall for at this one-of-a-kind museum in Washington Park, which offers everything from an immersive theater to virtual rainforest safaris and so much more.
Dreaming of Fjordland National Park? Discover This Alaska Hidden Gem Instead
Calving glaciers, towering, horsetail waterfalls, and breathtaking natural wonders await at this remote fjord in Alaska—no passport needed.
The Whimsical Balloon Museum in Northern California Is the Coolest Sensory Art Experience
Spend a few hours bouncing, diving, pondering, and selfie-ing at this larger-than-life traveling art museum.
This Urban Beach Has Some Of the Coolest Ancient Fossils in Northern California
If you're looking for unique beachcombing finds, Capitola is one of the best places in California to hunt for prehistoric marine life.
Fly a Jet, Land a 737, and Explore Space at Seattle’s Top Aviation Museum
This highly awarded 23-acre museum is what aviation dreams are made of.
Adventure’s Calling: Discover Dreamy Bioluminescent Algae at This Coastal Bay in Northern California
Often thought to be only a SoCal phenomenon, the rarely tranquil Pacific Ocean transforms into a peaceful, mesmerizing canvas of lights every summer in NorCal as well. This year, head to Tomales Bay to discover the magical "Northern Lights of the Sea."
Adventure’s Calling: This Historic Beach Is Ideal for Discovering Petroglyphs, Fossils, and Sea Glass in Alaska
Hundreds of Indigenous tribes once forged a living in Alaska's harshest regions, and many still do. But their legacies are often found where you least expect them.
Can’t Make It to Monument Valley? Try This Wyoming Alternative
Wyoming’s Shell Canyon is a hidden gem filled with fiery red rock formations and scenic landscapes that rival Monument Valley.
Your Best Alaska Summer Experience Isn’t by Car, It’s on a Historic Riverboat
Relax starboard as you spot moose, learn about Alaska culture, and cruise through scenic wilderness on this epic riverboat journey up the Chena River.
This Is the Quietest Part of This State Park in Northern California
Salt Point State Park is home to some seriously breathtaking sights, but this quiet state preserve in the park shows off a different side of NorCal's coastal scenery.
This Is the Least Visited Part of This National Park in Oregon
An overlooked piece of Oregon's tumultuous volcanic history is hiding in Crater Lake National Park, and it only takes a short hike to reach.
This Southern California Airbnb Is Like Stepping Onto the Set of ‘Tombstone’
Ready to live out your greatest Wild West vigilante dreams in luxurious comfort? You’re a daisy if you do.
We Did the Research, This Is Officially the Shortest and Most Unique Hiking Trail in Wyoming
For a gentle reminder that not everything unforgettable has to come at the end of a 10-mile uphill slog, this quick and quirky hike in Southern Wyoming is a must-do.
My Favorite Park in Washington Is a Little-Known Paradise for Stargazing
With some of the lowest light pollution in the entire state, Pearrygin Lake State Park in Washington's Methow Valley is an absolute dream for stargazers.
