Kobuk Valley is a breathtaking Arctic mirage, with rolling sand dunes emerging from the tundra, and caribou migration paths weaving through the landscape. Its remote and pristine nature makes it one of Alaska's most captivating and unique destinations.

No roads. No trails. No visitor centers. The Gates of the Arctic National Park is the epitome of wilderness. This park, a unique slice of Alaska's Brooks Range, is where caribou migrate across endless tundra and rivers cut through glacial valleys. It's one of the least visited national parks, reserved for true adventurers who seek the ultimate wilderness experience.

Glacier Bay National Park is a spectacle of pure Alaskan drama: colossal tidewater glaciers dramatically calving into icy fjords, majestic humpback whales breaching, and adorable sea otters gracefully floating among icebergs.

Katmai is where bears take center stage. Every summer, dozens of brown bears crowd Brooks Falls, creating a spectacle that is both thrilling and awe-inspiring.

Denali is Alaska at its most epic. Imagine a 20,310-foot mountain, the tallest in North America, towering over endless tundra, braided rivers, and spruce forests.

Joshua Tree National Park, established in 1994, is a place of unique and iconic beauty. Here, where the Mojave and Colorado deserts meet, you'll find whimsical Joshua trees stretching their twisted arms skyward, massive granite boulders stacked like playgrounds, and a sky so clear it becomes a stargazer's dream.

Utah: The Stargazing Capital of the World - If you want to experience a night sky filled with stars, Utah should be at the top of your travel list. The Beehive State has more certified Dark Sky destinations than anywhere else on Earth, making it a haven for astronomers, photographers, and anyone who has ever been awed by the Milky Way.

LATE SUMMER ESCAPES: As summer wanes and Labor Day nears, the pace mellows, but the adventure stays high. Wild Dirt explores standout trips to plan, or book now for August and September 2025, from sun‑drenched southern beaches to starlit northern wilderness.