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Well Read Travels

Thoughtfully researched travel guidance.

About
Travel
- Destinations
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Hello there!

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About Me

Hi, I'm Caitlin! Chicago based travel blogger with a passion for currating well researched travel guides and tips.

Recent Posts

Adventures in Parenthood: Year One
The Ultimate Guide for Seeing Lupins in New Zealand
The Complete Baby Travel Essentials List – Must-Haves for Every Kind of Adventure

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Come with me to explore four of Rocky Mountain Nat

Come with me to explore four of Rocky Mountain National Park’s most beautiful alpine lakes 🏔️✨

Rocky Mountain National Park is home to one of the most captivating mountain ranges in the entire country. And luckily for us, it’s also home to several stunning alpine lakes, each more breathtaking than the last. If you’re like me, then hiking to an alpine lake is one of your favorite trail types to explore 🥾

Anyone else love the feeling of reaching an alpine lake summit after a breathtaking hike? Double tap if you agree! ❤️

As an added bonus, the trails leading to the alpine lakes in Rocky Mountain National Park are relatively easy to moderate, depending on your fitness level. We (Bill) hiked to all four listed below with our almost 9-month-old baby, making them perfect family-friendly hikes!

🏔️ Bear Lake - Easy 0.7 mile loop

🏔️ Emerald Lake - Moderate 3.2 mile out & back

🏔️ Dream Lake - Moderate 2 mile out & back (on the same trail as the Emerald Lake)

🏔️ Bierstadt Lake - Moderate 2.9 mile loop

Follow along if you enjoy outdoor adventures, alpine lakes, and family hiking experiences @wellreadtravels! 😄

#rockymountainnationalpark #rockymountainhiking #alpinelakes #rockymountainnp #bearlakecolorado #emeraldlakecolorado #bierstadtlaketrail

Come along with us to see the most magical surpris

Come along with us to see the most magical surprise at the trail summit ✨😄

On our first family trip, we all laced up our boots and set out on our very first family hike along the Bierstadt Lake Trail in Rocky Mountain National Park 🏔️

The trail is a manageable 2.9-mile round trip with an elevation gain of about 620 feet, perfect for an afternoon adventure with a little one in your hiking pack. We took our time climbing to the lake, soaking in the breathtaking mountain views, but the real magic happened once we reached the summit 😍

Ready for your next family hike? Double tap if you’re adding this trail to your list! 💛

As we arrived at Bierstadt Lake, we couldn’t believe our eyes—a moose was standing right in the water, peacefully splashing around. Just when we thought the experience couldn’t get any better, two more moose appeared, all of them enjoying their afternoon dip. It was like something out of a dream, and we felt so lucky to witness it as a family ☺️🫎

I couldn’t have asked for a better surprise for our first family hike. Aside from seeing wildlife, this hike was unforgettable since we finally got to take our daughter on her first adventure in nature 🥰

Have you ever stumbled upon wildlife on your hikes? Let me know your favorite wildlife encounter in the comments below!

#rockymountainnationalpark #rockymountainnp #bierstadtlake #familyhike #headtotherockies #babyhiker

I started this hike with low expectations… 😬

I started this hike with low expectations… 😬

Double tap if you’ve started a trek like this before 🤍

We arrived in Rocky Mountain National Park for our first trip as a family with our almost nine-month-old daughter in tow. Although a little nervous, I was thrilled to take her on this adventure with us ☺️

Our first hike of the day was to Emerald Lake, and it was the first time our daughter had spent considerable time in the hiking pack. Our expectations were low, and we weren’t even sure how long we could spend on the trail 🥾

As we continued along, we noticed that she was surprisingly unphased by her ride-along situation and seemed to enjoy the experience. Once we reached the viewpoint, we sat together and took in our surroundings.

While exploring the trails in Rocky Mountain National Park on this trip, I discovered something entirely new that made me happier than I knew possible 🥰

As I watched my daughter look out at the beautiful blue alpine lake, my heart immediately began to swell. Having the opportunity to show her the world and experience new things was a gift I cherished deeply, knowing these moments would shape her understanding of beauty, adventure, and the world around her ☺️

Trail details:
🏔️ Emerald Lake Trail
🏔️ 3.2 miles out and back
🏔️ 700 ft elevation gain
🏔️ 1 hour and 35 minutes average time

What are some of your favorite hiking memories? Let me know in the comments! 🥾✨

#emeraldlaketrail #rockymountainnationalpark #rockymountains #adventurefamilytravel #hikingwithbaby

Real talk: traveling with your baby ✈️ “Say

Real talk: traveling with your baby ✈️

“Say goodbye to your adventures.”

“Travel now because that will stop once the baby comes.”

These phrases and others like them are ones I heard repeatedly once I learned the good news of my pregnancy last year.

Typically, the statements were made with the best intentions (I hope 😬) and humor, but they still weighed heavy on my mind and heart as we prepared to welcome our daughter into the world.

I’ll admit I was a little worried about the lifestyle changes that come with having a baby. But becoming a mother has been the most beautiful and challenging adventure I’ve ever embarked on 🤍

And although Bill and I are now parents, our adventurous spirit has remained 🌎

So we took the plunge, booked the flight, and brought our baby girl on her first trip to the mountains 🏔️

Yes, we faced more hurdles, lugged around an extra suitcase (and stroller and car seat and baby hiking pack), hiked shorter trails, factored in nap times into our days, and ended our evenings significantly earlier.

Was it easy? Nope.

Was it worth it? Absolutely.

Traveling with our daughter allowed us to slow down and enjoy the simple moments during our trip. We connected with nature in a totally different way since we witnessed it through her eyes. Sure, we didn’t see and do as much on this trip as on previous trips. But it allowed us to appreciate everything we did have time to see and do that much more.

Like with anything in life, it takes a bit of practice to learn something new. Traveling with a child is undoubtedly a new skill I look forward to improving upon 💪🏼

I can’t wait to share more about our trip to the Rockies and traveling with a little one. But this is a friendly reminder that the adventurous life you want IS entirely possible with kids if you put in the effort ☺️

Double tap if this resonates with you, and let me know in the comments about your experiences traveling with little ones ❤️✈️

#familytravel #travelingwithbaby #firstflight #babysfirstflight #mountainbaby #adventurefam

Dreaming of lush rainforests, rugged coastline, an

Dreaming of lush rainforests, rugged coastline, and snow-capped mountains? If so, Olympic National Park is your perfect adventure escape 🌿✨

Save this post for your next getaway! ☑️

Nestled on Washington’s Olympic Peninsula, Olympic National Park boasts a stunning diversity of landscapes, from misty beaches and temperate rainforests to glacial peaks. Home to over 70 miles of wild coastline and some of the most pristine old-growth forests in the U.S., this park offers a serene, otherworldly experience 😌

Olympic National Park also features an extensive network of trails, perfect for hikers of all levels. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, summiting peaks, or simply soaking in the views, this park has something for everyone 🥾

Below are the main sights featured in this reel:

🌿 Sol Duc Falls
🌿 Hurricane Hill Trail
🌿 Hoh Rainforest
🌿 Rialto Beach
🌿 Marymere Falls
🌿 Cape Flattery
🌿 Kalaloch Beach

Double tap if you’re ready to explore!

#olympicnationalpark #exploreolympicpeninsula #pnwadventures #pnwroadtrip

This might be the most underrated spot on the Olym

This might be the most underrated spot on the Olympic Peninsula 🌊🌿

Located in the northwesternmost point of the contiguous United States is the stunning Cape Flattery.

The rugged cliffs, dramatic coastline, and mesmerizing views made me feel like I was at the edge of the world. If you love nature and adventure, this is a must-visit destination when exploring the Pacific Northwest 🏔️

Double tap if you want to explore this picturesque corner of the country 🤍

The hike to the cape is 1.2 miles out and back, and it’s a relatively easy trek through a lush wooded trail. Once you arrive at the coast, you’ll be greeted by awe-inspiring coastal views 🥾

❕Don’t forget to purchase your Makah Recreation Permit since it’s required when hiking in the Makah Reservation. It’s $20, and we purchased ours at the mini-mart on our way to the trailhead.

Are you adding Cape Flattery to your Pacific Northwest road trip? 😄

#capeflattery #olympicnationalpark #olympicpeninsula #pnwadventures #pnwroadtrip #washingtonexplored

What Icelandic region are you visiting first? Tell

What Icelandic region are you visiting first? Tell me in the comments 🇮🇸✨

There’s a reason why visitors constantly return to Iceland. It’s a place where every corner holds a new adventure, where the landscapes are otherworldly, and the people are incredibly welcoming. It’s a destination that captivates you and leaves you wanting for more.

Each region offers something unique and unforgettable, which makes Iceland the perfect place to visit again and again ✈️

Here’s how I would describe each region in five words or less:

🇮🇸 Reykjavík: Vibrant, culture, nightlife, and historic

🇮🇸 Southern Iceland: Glaciers, waterfalls, and black sand beaches

🇮🇸 Western Iceland: Fjords, volcanoes, lava fields, and seals

🇮🇸 The Westfjords: Remote, rugged, cliffs, puffins, and tranquility

🇮🇸 North Iceland: Mountains, whales, lakes, and grand waterfalls

🇮🇸 East Iceland: Fishing villages, wilderness, fjords, and reindeer

🇮🇸 Highlands: Desolate, geothermal, untouched, adventurous, and moonscape

Double tap if visiting Iceland’s unique regions is still on your bucket list 🤍

#icelandtrip #icelandroadtrip #icelandnature #ringroadiceland #icelandtravel

Let’s pause and embrace the present moment ✨🌲

Often, when we travel, we move so fast that we forget to breathe in and breathe out and witness the beauty all around us.

One of the reasons I love exploring the outdoors is because it allows us to truly disconnect from the noise in our day-to-day lives and be present in the moment.

Double tap if you appreciate embracing the present moment 💛

When you spend time in nature, you get to experience all the significant benefits, including:

🌿 Stress reduction & improved mood.

🌿 Enhanced creativity.

🌿 Increased physical activity.

🌿 Better immune function & improved concentration.

🌿 Overall improvement to your well-being.

My hope is that you take some time to appreciate and embrace the present moment in your own way 😌

Whether it’s spending time in nature, taking a quiet walk, or simply pausing to take a deep breath. Remember the importance of being present and allowing yourself to disconnect from the fast pace of life 🤍🏔️

It’s these moments that truly enrich our lives and allow us to just be.

Let me know in the comments your favorite ways to embrace the present moment ☺️

#olympicnationalpark #hurricanehilltrail #olympicnationalparkwashington #explorepnw #washintonstate

Ready for an incredible weekend experiencing the w

Ready for an incredible weekend experiencing the wonders of Yosemite National Park? 🏞️✨

Save this post for future planning! ☑️

Exploring the breathtaking landscapes of Yosemite National Park was an unforgettable experience. From enchanting hikes to majestic waterfalls, every moment in this natural wonderland felt like a dream 😌

If you plan on visiting Yosemite this summer, here’s the ultimate 3-day itinerary to make the most of your adventure:

Day 1 – Yosemite Valley
🏨 Check in to @yosemite_rushcreek
🌲 Explore the Yosemite Valley
🥾 Hike the Lower Yosemite Falls Trail & Inspiration Point Trail
🏞️ Check out the views at Tunnel View

Day 2 – Tioga Road & Glacier Point Road
🚙 Drive along Tioga Road, stopping at Olmsted Point & Tenaya Lake
🥾 Hike the Cathedral Lakes Trail
🚗 Drive to Glacier Point Road
🌲 Hike Sentinel Dome Trail & Taft Point Trail
☀️ Witness the stunning panoramic sights at Glacier Point

Day 3 – Vernal and Nevada Falls Trails
💦 Hike the John Muir Trail to Vernal and Nevada Falls
🧗🏻‍♀️ Picnic at El Capitan Meadow to watch climbers
🍴 Dine at the historic Ahwahnee Hotel for a perfect evening
🍫 Roast marshmallows and make smores at Rush Creek Lodge

As I said, this fast-paced itinerary will help you maximize your visit. If you prefer to travel at a slower pace, add an additional day or two to break up some of the hikes.

I have an entire blog post detailing everything you need to know to have an unforgettable adventure at Yosemite National Park. Check the link in the bio to read more! 🤍✨

#yosemite #yosemitenationalpark #yosemitevalley #glacierpoint #elcapitan #yosemiteguide

Who would be sad after spending an evening watchin

Who would be sad after spending an evening watching the sunset and drinking prosecco in Iceland? 😅

Thinking back to our evening spent soaking in the relaxing @geoseaiceland waters always brings a smile to my face. Talk about a core memory from our trip!

Iceland is well known for its geothermal activity, hot springs, and hot pools scattered throughout the country. @geoseaiceland is currently my favorite throughout all of Iceland 😄

Double tap if you’ve visited an Iceland hot spring or if it’s still on your bucket list 🤍

If you plan to visit the land of fire and ice this summer, adding a stop in Húsavík to visit @geoseaiceland is a must. Below, you’ll find some helpful know-before-you-go tips:

🇮🇸 Like with anything in Iceland, booking a reservation ahead of time is always a smart move to guarantee you won’t miss out.

🎟️ The ticket cost to enter Geosea gets you access to their facilities, including their spa-like locker room where you can safely store your belongings.

🚿 Similar to the other geothermal baths in Iceland, guests are required to shower before entering the baths.

👙 The ticket cost doesn’t include a towel, so you can either bring your own or rent one for a small fee. You can also rent a bathing suit if needed.

💲 No need to worry about having a credit card with you in the baths – your wristband is all you need.

Tell me in the comments if you would add a visit to @geoseaiceland to your Iceland Ring Road itinerary! 🇮🇸

#geosea #geoseaiceland #icelandhotsprings #icelandnature #husavik #husavikiceland

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