TRACY SEES STUFF 👀

Category: travel

  • Glacier National Park and West Glacier KOA

    Glacier National Park and West Glacier KOA

    Glacier National Park

    Our goal is to visit all of the United States national parks in our lifetime and we recently checked Glacier National Park off our travel list! Included in that list was capturing this photo. The fishing boat was a bonus. When I saw the boat leaving the dock, I was so excited because I knew it would add perspective to the rugged glacier mountains.

    *Written in 2021 – the ticketed entry system no longer applies.

    I wasn’t sure if I would have the opportunity to see this iconic view of Lake McDonald due to the new ticketed entry system. But, we found a way, and I share our entry hack below. I also share our favorite things about Glacier National Park and this trip, like the ever-changing colorful rocks, the refreshing scent of pine, and West Glacier KOA.

    mountains and lake at glacier national park

    Glacier National Park, also referred to as the Crown of the Continent, was established in 1910, making it the 10th National Park in the United States. It is also part of the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park along with Waterton National Park in Canada. This designation makes it the first international peace park in the world. The park offers grand rocky mountains, over 700 lakes (only 131 are named), tall pine-filled forests, and beautiful meadows. There are endless things to do and see with so many lakes, trails (700 miles), and the scenic Going-To-The-Sun-Road. This road is specifically what you will need an extra ticket for when entering the park.

    West Glacier KOA 5 out of 5

    During our visit, we lodged at the West Glacier KOA. I have to say, our stay was an unexpected, delightful surprise. I’ve always enjoyed our KOA experiences, but the West Glacier KOA goes above and beyond. The staff at the front desk was so helpful at check-in and when asked any questions during our visit. After the first night, we decided to extend our stay. We had to move cabins to extend, and the KOA team made it so easy. The layout of the campground gives ample space, so it doesn’t feel overcrowded.

    There are so many amenities beyond the regular KOA standards, including ice cream served every night at Scoops (of course, I list the priorities first), espresso bar, hot breakfast and dinner, a children’s pool and separate adult pool, dog-friendly cabins and two dog parks, a walking trail, basketball court, and live entertainment plus other planned activities. I suggest the huckleberry ice cream! In fact, check out the Huckleberry Patch store filled with everything huckleberry when you enter Glacier National Park at the west entrance. I couldn’t get enough. 🙂 Speaking of the west entrance, it is only a short 3.9-mile drive from the KOA.

    The deluxe cabins include linens, have a fire ring and propane grill, full bath and shower, partial kitchen, lofts, and are pet-friendly.

    cabin in the woods at west glacier koa

    The grounds are impeccable with beautiful views in every direction.

    Glacier National Park’s New Ticketed Entry System And More

    From what I’ve read online, it seems many people are frustrated with the Glacier National Park new ticketed entry ticket reservation system. Your best bet for getting a ticket to Going-To-The-Sun-Road is planning ahead. Tickets go on sale 60 days before your date of arrival. They also sell a small number of tickets 2 days ahead, but it’s hard to snag one of those. The other option, which is our hack, is arriving before 6 am or after 5 pm. We loved going during these times because the park is less crowded and the sunrise/sunset is fantastic!

    glacier national park

    The rocky beaches are amazing! The rocks change based on the time of day. The sun, shadows, and water dance together creating so many different colors. We also enjoyed the fresh cool mountain air during the morning and evening especially after leaving the Minnesota heat.

    Going-To-The-Sun-Road was actually closed while we were there in June due to snow, so it’s good to stay flexible and have a backup plan. There are so many other things to see and do in the area, including at West Glacier KOA. We could have stayed at the campground all day and been just as happy. Whitefish, Montana is an easy 20-minute drive, and Bigfork, Montana is 45 minutes. This whole area of northwestern Montana offers tons of adventuring, wildlife, delicious restaurants, unique shopping, live theater, breweries, and so much history. We were there for two weeks and barely scratched the surface.

    Cheers KOA! We appreciate the awesome service and can’t wait to visit again.

    Learn more about one of our other favorite parks, Grand Teton National Park by clicking HERE.

    Life is short, never stop searching for what stirs your soul. ❤️

    © Tracy Blowers

  • Two Nights in Madison, Wisconsin

    Two Nights in Madison, Wisconsin

    Itinerary for a two night stay in Madison, Wisconsin

    Madison offers the perfect combo of urban life and nature.

    10/10 We highly recommend staying on the scenic isthmus between Lake Mendota and Lake Monona in the heart of the city. It’s a beautiful, vibrant, and fun spot to enjoy lake life, urban life, culture, and amazing food. Plus, it’s a walking dream. The walk score for Madison is 95!

    Where to stay in Madison, Wisconsin

    STAY: The Saddlery

    The Saddlery is a home away from home for short and long-term rentals in downtown Madison. It is a super cool historic apartment building that is dog-friendly with lake views, rooftop patio, and easy access to everything.

    Where to eat in Madison, Wisconsin

    DINNER night one: Lucille

    Great service, local beers, craft cocktails, and wood-fired pizzas. Their ingredients are locally sourced. The cheese curds were delicious with the perfect crunch and we loved both dipping sauces. They have 3 floors and a cute outdoor patio.

    COFFEE and BREAKFAST morning one: Colectivo Coffee

    So good! The beans are roasted in Wisconsin and it’s a great vibe. The in house homemade granola with strawberry rhubarb sauce was perfect. Hits the spot.

    After a cup of coffee, walk around the neighborhood and over to the Dane County Farmer’s Market at the Capitol. There are an amazing variety of local artisans and the Capitol is such a gorgeous historic building to explore.

    LUNCH: Memorial Union Terrace

    This is a must! We had a blast at the historic Memorial Union Terrace just chilling by Lake Mendota getting brats, burgers, popcorn, and beers. Make sure to watch their calendar for the music, art, and film lineup.

    Known for it’s history (make sure to learn more while visiting), the bright chairs, food, entertainment, and a University of Wisconsin-Madison student favorite.

    DINNER: Leftovers

    We ate our Lucille pizza leftovers and then decided to grab some ice cream from Good News Cafe & Ice Cream. I was super excited that one of their flavors was Huckleberry, one of my faves when traveling out west.

    BREWERY: Young Blood Beer Co.

    It was perfect grabbing a 4-pack from Young Blood Beer Co. and bringing it back to the Saddlery rooftop. Plus, the Mad-City Ski Team practices on the lake so you get a free show.

    BREAKFAST morning two: Marigold Kitchen

    Fresh and local. Their mission is great food, golden energy, and genuine connection. Accomplished! I’m still dreaming about the pancakes.

    Things to do in Madison, Wisconsin

    Other ideas for things to do besides the Farmers’ Market and tour the historic Capitol. Betty Lou Boat Cruises, Paddle Boarding, E-Bikes, Ghost Tours, Art Tour, or Live Music. See Destination Madison for more.

    Last, if you’re road tripping through Wisconsin, you have to stop at Culver’s for a chicken sandwich and chocolate shake. It just hits different in WI. IYKYK

    Ride along with @tracyseesstuff for more Midwest fun!

    ©Tracy Sees Stuff

  • Jackson Lake Lodge – Breakfast Cruise – Grand Teton National Park

    Jackson Lake Lodge – Breakfast Cruise – Grand Teton National Park

    Jackson Lake Lodge is located in Grand Teton National Park. A full-service hotel with incredible views and activities for the whole family. Our favorite experience was the Jackson Lake Scenic Breakfast Cruise. The boat departs at 7:15 a.m. from Colter Bay Marina so it’s the perfect opportunity to capture some sunrise photos!

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    The cruise takes you out on Jackson Lake to Elk Island surrounding by breathtaking views of the Tetons. As the boat docks, you can smell the coffee brewing and the pancakes cooking.

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    You are greeted by a fun and friendly staff. The food is ready as soon as you arrive. Pancakes, scrambled eggs, trout, potatoes, bacon, sausage, fresh fruit, and yogurt. And you can go for seconds! They don’t miss a beat; everything you need is at the tables. Once you finish eating, you can explore the island.

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    Then back on the boat for a relaxing ride to the marina.

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    We highly recommend taking the breakfast cruise! Honestly, I wondered if they would be able to pull off good food on the island, and it exceeded my expectations. It was a treat eating breakfast outside surrounded by such grand views! Jackson Lake Lodge is a class act, and this was a fun, unique experience.

    ©Tracy Blowers

  • Explore Local Together Episode 4 – Minnesota National Parks

    Explore Local Together Episode 4 – Minnesota National Parks

    Welcome to Explore Local Together Episode 4! If you’re visiting from the podcast, thank you for listening. If not, please join us! At Explore Local Together, we share local gems in Minnesota, the Midwest, and Road-Tripping the USA. Below, you will find links throughout the blog post to click and listen to the podcast while you read.

    LISTEN to the podcast

    Minnesota National Park Systems

    On Episode 4, we’re talking about the Minnesota National Park systems, including the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway and Voyageurs National Park. We love National Parks and we’re thankful for these protected areas in Minnesota and across the country. (Did you know there are over 400?!) You can explore pristine beauty, experience pretty much every kind of recreation, and learn about everything from the wildlife to history.

    Voyageurs National Park – Photo Credit: NPS/Mark Miller – Park Ranger

    National Park Week is in April every year and runs special events for a week. It kicks off with a free-entry day and is followed by nine days of celebrations, each with a theme. Additionally, this is a great way to learn more about each park and about the National Park Service’s programs to preserve natural and cultural heritage and provide recreational opportunities. You can join the fun in person or online at nps.gov.

    St. Croix National Scenic Riverway

    The river was Minnesota’s first to be designated in the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System, managed by the National Park Service and designated in 1968. The Saint Croix National Scenic Riverway includes the St. Croix and Namekagon rivers and makes over 200 miles of clean water among wild and scenic beauty. From the heavily wooded banks, bluffs, cliffs, and pinnacles, and ever-changing landscapes, there is so much beauty and wonder to take in. 

    St. Croix National Scenic Riverway Things To Do

    Exploring the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway also includes the St. Croix Scenic Byway, State Parks, hiking, and historic towns with plenty of local gems to discover. Of course, this is what our podcast is all about and we have some other great blogs for you to explore. Read more about Taylors Falls HERE and find our St. Croix Valley itinerary HERE.

    HEAR Amy Frischmon with Taylors Falls Boats’ Interview

    Taylors Falls Boat Tours

    Taylors Falls Scenic Boat Tours offers authentic paddlewheel excursions on the St. Croix 7 days a week, May through October. Cruises are a great way to see the river and include a narrated tour of the history and rock formations. There are family-friendly tours throughout the day but our favorite is the sundown cruise. The Boats include the Taylors Falls Queen and the Taylors Falls Princess, both featuring enclosed lower levels and open upper decks to enjoy the fresh air and views.

    Tip: Go early and hang out on the Red Rock Patio, where you can enjoy a charcuterie board and wine while taking in the views. You can also order ahead and have the food waiting onboard. Plus, watch their calendar for live music events!

    The third week of April is also National Volunteer Week. If you’re interested in getting involved in preserving the St. Croix, check out the Wild Rivers Conservancy.  Their mission: ​​a thriving watershed, forever accessible, scenic and wild.

    Voyageurs National Park

    Voyageurs National Park is in Northern Minnesota near the Canadian border, with over 218,000 acres (40% is water!) and also borders the million acres of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. 

    Voyageurs National Park – Photo Credit: NPS/Mark Miller – Park Ranger

    Hear Park Ranger, Mark Miller’s Interview

    Voyageurs National Park offers something for everyone including canoeing, camping, fishing, hiking, houseboating, shopping in surrounding towns, birding, photography, and is a Dark Sky certified park. This park is special because you can truly escape the crowds and spend time alone among nature if that’s what you choose. There are many ways to enjoy this treasure of a park.

    Here is a list of Voyageurs Hiking Trails.


    Photo Credit: NPS/Mark Miller – Park Ranger

    PLAN YOUR VISIT and recreation.gov

    Adopt a Rescue Dog – Ruff Start Rescue

    We are partnering with Ruff Start Rescue and Best Friends Animal Society to feature one adoptable dog each month. We are passionate about rescue dogs and have two of our own, the Explore Local Together mascots, Allen and Carol. 

    Meet Ace Odin!

    Ace has been in rescue since May 2022. He is a Mixed American Staffordshire Terrier and American Bulldog and is a little over 3 years old. 

    He is all about the good vibes—treats, lap snuggles (he’s convinced he can fit on any lap even though he weighs 96 pounds), family car rides, and yard shenanigans. He loves relaxing, walks, playing with toys and chewing on bones. He’ll do best in a home with older kids (maybe above 10) and is not the biggest fan of cats. He has lived with dogs in the past and have done well.

    Do you think Ace could be the pup for you?! Visit Ruff Start Rescue HERE plus check out their volunteer opportunites.

    Let’s Explore Local Together!

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    ©Explore Local Together

  • Things To Do Besides Hiking In Sedona Arizona

    Things To Do Besides Hiking In Sedona Arizona

    Best Things To Do Besides Hiking in Sedona

    Hiking is our favorite activity while visiting Sedona but there is so much more! Here is our list of things to do in Sedona besides hiking. Enjoy!

    Chapel of the Holy Cross is stunning. It’s a definite must stop with breathtaking views. Depending on what time of year you are visiting, it can get very busy. We always make sure to get there early when the chapel opens to avoid big crowds. You can light a candle for someone you love, shop in the chapel store, or just sit for a quiet moment. If you park at the lower level, there is a golf cart driver that will take you to the top or you can get in a short strenuous hike. You can also book a tour through the Sedona Trolley Company.

    Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park is the perfect location to relax and take a deep breathe. It’s a place for meditation and spiritual renewal. The 14 acres located next to Thunder Mountain is considered holy to the native peoples. This beautiful 36-foot stupa gets its name from Buddha Amitabha, the Buddha of Limitless Light. Peace Park is free and runs off donations. It’s such a special spot, I visited this park almost every day while in Sedona.

    Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park Sedona Arizona

    Posse Grounds Park is Sedona’s first park. 78 acres to explore and enjoy! There are trails, a dog park, skate park, softball fields, tennis courts, bike skills park, basketball court, sand volleyball court, picnic tables, a multi-use grass field, and our favorite…the fitness trail.

    Posse Grounds Park Sedona Arizona

    Of course, so much shopping! Tlaquepaque Arts and Shopping Village offers many unique shops and restaurants. You can spend a full day walking around, shopping, eating, and people watching. We really enjoyed sitting on the Oak Creek Brewery patio and drinking their locally brewed beer. I also loved stopping at Sedona Candle Magic shop and watching them make the candles (See below). A couple other favorite shopping locations are Hummingbird House and the Hillside Sedona Shopping Center.

    My favorite shop to buy crystals is Mystical Bazaar. The staff is so helpful and friendly. They also offer aura photos, psychic readings, and beautiful jewelry.

    things to do in Sedona

    There is a huge artist market too! I found great gifts here.

    I also always find the local farmer’s markets when traveling. It’s a great way to enjoy fresh food and local shopping. The Sedona Farmer’s Market is open in the winter and summer seasons.

    Last but not least, treat yourself to a massage at Therapy on the Rocks or one of the many spas in Sedona.

    Happy Traveling!

    Originally posted in 2020.

    © What Stirs Your Soul Media

  • Best Ten Restaurants near Zion National Park’s East Entrance

    Best Ten Restaurants near Zion National Park’s East Entrance

    Here is a list of the best ten restaurants near Zion National Park’s east entrance. These are our favorites, but there are many more. Keep an eye out as you road trip through Utah’s small towns; you will stumble across hidden gems! We usually stay in Kanab, Utah, while visiting Utah’s National Parks and enter Zion on the east side, on Zion Canyon Scenic Drive/Mount Carmel Highway. The restaurants below are within 15 to 45 miles of the park. I started with the closest.

    Top 10 Restaurants near Zion National Park’s East Entrance

    The Shop Coffee Co. is located on scenic Highway 89 between Bryce Canyon National Park and Zion National Park in Orderville, Utah. They have the BEST sandwiches. When we leave Minnesota and start driving towards Utah, it’s all I think about. 🙂 They use fresh baked sourdough from local @blessthismessblog. All the ingredients are always so fresh! We were surprised since it’s at a Sinclair gas station but trust me….stop here! They also have coffee (obviously), soup, salads, bowls, toasts, smoothies, treats, and an adorable gift shop. My fave sandwich is The Mechanic.

    Archies Food to Die For is a food truck in Orderville, Utah. The french fries and chicken fingers are fantastic and can be made gluten free. The homemade dippings sauces are amazing and the food is cooked to order!

    The Rock Stop is a must stop! You can’t drive by this building and not check it out. 🙂 The Rock Stop is also located in Orderville, Utah.

    Best Kanab, Utah, Restaurants

    The Cave Cafe is a food truck serving grilled paninis, smoothies, and açaí bowls! It is located at the Moqui Cave, which is an ancient history museum. You can see dinosaur tracks!

    Angel Village Cafe at Best Friends Animal Society offers a $5.00 vegetarian lunch buffet every day from 11:30 am to 1:00 pm. Look at that view! Side tip: sign up for a tour of the sanctuary.

    Peekaboo Canyon Wood-Fired Kitchen offers vegetarian and vegan options. Peekaboo is our favorite spot to dine al fresco for lunch. Fantastic pizza, mushroom burgers, and salads. They are now offering brunch! The dogs love the tented patio for the nice shade.

    I dream about Sego Restaurant all year and Chef Shon’s deep fried soft boiled egg. It is heaven! Chef Shon is magical in the kitchen and Sego is such a special place from the food to the service. It’s our date night go-to. They have the best charcuterie boards and we love the social style of dining.

    Vermillion 45 is a casual French/Italian bistro. The food is spectacular! We have come to expect the unexpected in Kanab and Vermillion 45 fits right in. We love the casual vibe, open kitchen, and dog-friendly patio.

    If you want a quick homemade sandwich, ice cream cone, or malt, check out The Soda Fountain in Kanab Drug. They have a super cute gift shop too!

    Wild Thyme has the best bowls! And try the Kanab Cowboy Ribs. Yum.

    A couple of extras: 

    Willow Canyon has the best coffee in Kanab, and you can pick up any hiking gear needs. 

    Asava – Best fresh squeezed juice! 

    Let me know if you have any questions!

    When you visit Kanab, you’ll fall in love. If you’re looking for a dog-friendly stay, check out >> https://tracyseesstuff.com/2022/03/20/best-friends-roadhouse-and-mercantile-dog-friendly-hotel-in-southern-utah/

    ©Tracy Blowers

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