What's The Fastest Anybody Has Ever Hiked The Entire Appalachian Trail?
The Appalachian Trail is a huge undertaking even for seasoned hikers. Some athletes love the challenge and have set records for the fastest completion time.
Read MoreHillary Louise Johnson
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Islands content is created by a team of veteran writers and editors passionate about travel. Outside experts with deep field knowledge sometimes inform our work with additional context and perspectives by way of exclusive commentary. Our goal is to offer readers well-rounded and diverse articles that inform, entertain, and inspire.
Our editors consistently review and update articles to ensure they're providing current, relevant, and useful information. Complete information on our editorial process is available here.
Stories By Hillary Louise Johnson
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Between San Angelo And Austin Is A Small Texas Town With Nostalgic Charm, Biking Trails, And Fishing
One of the most soulful spots in Texas Hill Country is a tiny town brimming with historic charm, trails, and bike routes sure to take your breath away.
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East Vs West: Which Coast Has The Best Florida Beaches?
Florida is famous for its many miles of diverse coastline; the most in the contiguous U.S. But which side of the Sunshine State has the best vacation spots?
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Between Phoenix And Prescott Is Arizona's Idyllic Mountain Park For Fishing, Camping, And Trails
About 85 miles outside of Phoenix, you'll find a rugged region of the Prescott National Forest's Bradshaw Mountains that's a hidden recreational wonderland.
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Consumer Reports' Favorite Travel Backpack Is A Durable And Roomy Gem
If you're in need of a new backpack for your travel adventures, Consumer Reports has crunched the numbers on which one you should invest in.
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America's Top-Rated Dog Beach For 2025 Is A Leash-Free Florida Paradise For Your Furry Friends
Planning a dog-friendly Florida trip? This top-rated leash-free beach offers long sandy stretches, easy access points, and amenities for pets and owners.
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The Best Camping Pillow Of 2026 Is Top-Ranked And Well-Reviewed - But Is It Worth $60?
An important piece for camping is your pillow. Sure, a tent or sleeping bag is also priority, but a sore neck is no fun when you're trying to enjoy yourself.
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Santa Cruz County's 'Only Enclosed Shopping Center' Is A Local Favorite Set For Some Major Changes
Malls around the country are struggling to retain their cultural significance, but one in Southern California has a major overhaul planned to address that.
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Tucked Between Sacramento And Stockton Is California's Wondrous Delta Waterway Filled With Wildlife
California has a lot of popular tourist destinations, but you can head to this quiet waterway for a relaxing paddle away from all the crowds.
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Nestled In The Northern Sierra Nevada Is California's Overlooked Mountain Lake For Peaceful Paddling
If you want to visit a secluded lake in the Sierra Nevada mountains, but Lake Tahoe's crowds don't appeal to you, you can head to this peaceful spot.
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Michigan's Unsung 'City Of Trails' Has Abundant Recreation And A Lively Downtown
If you want to visit a town rich in cultural heritage, you can head to this Michigan city with Scandinavian festivals and a Viking ship welcoming you.
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Washington's 'Gateway To The North Cascades' Is A Serene Lakeside State Park To Hike, Camp, And Boat
This Washington state park offers some true seclusion, with peaceful boating, hiking, camping, and more. It's great stop on a long boating trip.
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5 Stunning Destinations For Free Dispersed Camping In Oregon's Mt. Hood National Forest, According To Reviews
Dispersed camping is a great choice for outdoors folks who like to rough it, and these five spots in Oregon's Mt. Hood National Forest are some of the best.
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Utah's 5 Best Hot Spring Hikes For Rewarding Relaxation And Stunning Views, According To Reviews
Tourists flock to Utah for its gorgeous landscapes and hot springs, and you can get the best of both on these hikes that take you right to the water.
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The 5 Most Popular Shoe Brands In The US For Hikers
All hikers know that the right pair of shoes can be the difference between a good trek and a bad one, so we’re taking a look at five brands that hikers love.
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5 Best Beaches For Running On The West Coast, According To Athletes
Running on the beach can be a truly exhilarating experience, and we've got five of the best West Coast beaches that you can feel the breeze on.
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North Carolina's 5 Best Traveler-Recommended Weekend Backpacking Trips For A Scenic Outdoor Escape
North Carolina has breathtaking spots for backpackers, but if you're just looking for a weekend getaway, we've got five spots that travelers love.
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If You Know These 5 Under-The-Radar Yellowstone Trails, You're A True Backcountry Legend
Yellowstone National Park is one of the most popular destinations in the United States, but there are still underrated trails for explorers to find.
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Nestled In Washington's Cascade Mountains Is A Scenic City With Camping, Peaceful Vibes, And Lake Access
Washington is home to some scenic views, including in this little city, where you can camp on the lake and enjoy a meal in a 1950s-style burger joint.
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Among America's Best Small Towns For Retirees In 2025 Is A New York Village You've Never Heard Of
Florida isn't the only place where people are retiring, as many are seeking out this charming New York village with walkable streets and historic architecture.
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Campers Say These Affordable Dupes Hands-Down Beat The Solo Stove Fire Pit
If you're looking into buying a Solo Stove, but the price is causing you to worry, you should check out these well-reviewed alternatives instead.
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Myrtle Beach's 5 Coolest Affordable RV Resorts To Stay, According To The Internet
If you're traveling to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina in your RV, there are a lot of options, so we've got five of the best and most affordable places to go.
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A Lesser-Known California Coastal Mountain Range Rivals Big Sur With Heart-Stopping Views
California is home to stunning views and beautiful beaches, but if you need to get away from the crowds, head to this mountain range on the coast.
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