School
Duquesne University, Humboldt University Berlin, Central European University
Expertise
National parks, Foreign travel, Hiking trails
- Stephen has covered breaking travel news and major travel trends for top travel publications.
- An avid traveler, he has stepped foot on four different continents and more than two dozen countries.
- When not writing, he enjoys hiking, kayaking, and nature photography.
Experience
Stephen Hanson is an author, travel writer, and amateur photographer. A native of Pittsburgh, he has also lived in Berlin, Vienna, and Washington, D.C., where he currently resides. Steve has published both fiction and non-fiction in international publications. In addition to his published works, he has also studied cognitive science at the graduate level and worked in the educational field.
Education
Stephen has a bachelor's degree with a dual focus on English and philosophy, and is currently completing a graduate degree in the field of cognitive science.
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.
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Maryland
By Stephen Hanson
It's not just about the coastal views at Maryland's only oceanfront park as the beachy landscape also houses majestic wild horses and seaside trails.
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Montana
By Stephen Hanson
Explore this expanse of brilliant and photographic scenery amidst Montana's beautiful and memorable ecosystem, complete with plenty of trails for adventurers.
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You might not expect to find this untouched gem with distinctive geographical features in Nevada, but that's what makes it even more alluring. Check it out!
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New York
By Stephen Hanson
It's a tough climb up, but the sweeping views of Lake Champlain from this Adirondack mountain are among the best you'll find in New York and Vermont.
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Arizona
By Stephen Hanson
There is no shortage of spectacular natural features dotted around the Grand Canyon State, and you can add this scenic trail to that lengthy list.
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South Carolina
By Stephen Hanson
South Carolina may not be known for its mountain views, but its serene and secluded state parks are full of surprises, like wildflower-filled meadows.
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You'll find more than flat plains at this state park in Kansas that boasts canyons, bluffs, and even unique rock formations that resemble giant mushrooms.
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California
By Stephen Hanson
If you're looking for a hidden gem to add to your California road trip, this scenic roadway offers stunning canyon views and giant sequoias.
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This enchanting Greek cave is the stuff of myths and legends, complete with a storied past and a scintillating azure lake that visitors can explore by boat.
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Just outside of Toledo and Cleveland awaits a scenic and quaint Ohio village that is home to the oldest operational lighthouse in The Great Lakes.
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Skip the crowds of Utah's more popular parks to view this unique, dramatic rocky formation that features petroglyphs and is a wonderful photo op.
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If seeing the spectacular sandstone formations at Arches is on your bucket list but you want to avoid the crowds, head to this underrated trail instead.
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The views from the top of this trail in Acadia National Park are breathtaking, but the journey to the top is too dangerous for the weak at heart.
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New Mexico
By Stephen Hanson
Ruins of some of most impressive buildings in ancient culture are situated in this remote canyon in the Southwest, where you can see the structures up close.
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Utah offers sprawling landscapes with rich and unique experiences, like those available in the state's largest national forest, a getaway with few crowds.
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This stunning trail in Michigan boasts some of the best views on the Upper Peninsula along with dazzling cliffs, pristine beaches, and rushing waterfalls.
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Outdoor Adventure
By Stephen Hanson
Leave the busy Adirondack towns behind. Instead, check out this underrated mountain range for stunning views, fun hikes, and a serene outdoorsy atmosphere.
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Visit this state park in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley to see a towering natural bridge and stunning landscapes that rival those of the nearby national park.
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California
By Stephen Hanson
This stunning Big Sur trail is the best of coastal California with Pacific views, sweeping cliffs, and unique flora — it's a hike not to be missed.
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These stunning adjacent sandstone canyons in Utah are the perfect option for adventure-seekers looking for natural beauty and uncrowded scenery.
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Michigan
By Stephen Hanson
This stunning inland lake in Michigan proves you don't have to travel to a crowded destination to enjoy a world-class beach on your next vacation.
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Arizona
By Stephen Hanson
The hike to the top of this magnificent trail in Arizona is arguably the state's most challenging, but the views make it worth every drop of sweat.
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There might not be a better trail to explore than this stunning Nevada setting that offers adventurous travelers the chance to learn so much about the region.
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Washington
By Stephen Hanson
Enjoy the beauty of all four seasons and a region full of wine vineyards and national parks at this Washington landmark, the nation's third deepest lake.
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Hear the sounds of Mother Nature and enjoy a thrilling day of tackling one of Nevada's tallest sand dunes at this singing wonder outside Reno.
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For Big Sur views outside of California, visit this spot in Oregon known for its unique natural phenomena, miles of hiking trails, and stunning overlooks.
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North Carolina
By Stephen Hanson
If you're looking for large dunes on the Atlantic Coast, you won't find any more imposing than these spectacular sand structures in North Carolina.
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