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5 Life-Changing Jet Lag Apps

5 Life-Changing Jet Lag Apps

Jet lag is a waking nightmare.

Usually, the most common symptoms include fatigue, irritability, headaches, constipation, and poor concentration. But if you’re one of the more unlucky travelers like me, it can also wreak havoc on your appetite and spur on insomnia.

(Does anyone else get nauseous at mealtime when dealing with jet lag?)

Though many business travelers have their jet lag apps and routines down pat, dealing with the issues listed above can wreak havoc on our vacations.

We lose precious time feeling zonked out and cranky. We might even miss out on experiences—or misplace important items. We might even face so much brain fog that we’re unable to be present and enjoy the moment.

But I’ve got good news. Whether or not you’re able to sleep on planes, there are close to a dozen apps available in the iOS and Google Play Store that will help you manage jet lag—possibly even before you step foot on a plane.

5 jet lag apps: shortcut

  • The latest jet lag solution: FlyKitt
  • The OG jet lag solution: Timeshifter
  • The total sleep app: Calm
  • The exercise-focused app: Uplift
  • The sleep monitor: Sleep Cycle

Jet lag apps that will have an immediate impact

FlyKitt

FlyKitt is one of the coolest new jet lag-tackling apps out there. Unlike other apps on the market, it’s fully personalized and tailored to your data, habits, and goals. Rather than a one-size-fits-all approach, FlyKitt uses an algorithm to set up your jet lag protocols, offering an unprecedented level of detail.

Using practices like chronobiology, FlyKitt carefully maps out what you’ll need to succeed. In fact, you’ll use FlyKitt’s patented supplement packs to minimize inflammation, which exacerbates symptoms of jet lag. You even get a pair of blue light-filtering glasses to help with light exposure.

Timeshifter

The OG jet lag app has slowly been refining its approach since 2018. Using a range of in-app features, you can refine how you sleep, stay alert, and maintain your health while traveling. Thanks to AI-driven models and your personal information, Timeshifter works with you to streamline your circadian rhythm.

The result is a timetable that suggests when you should sleep, avoid bright light, eat, avoid caffeine and alcohol, and more. If you want a personal assistant to keep you in line to beat jet lag, look no further.

Calm

Calm is an app designed for better sleep. Though it wasn’t created specifically for jet lag, its meditation features and Sleep Stories were crafted specifically with long, restful nights in mind. You can use it wherever you travel as a sleep aid.

That being said, its meditation and mindfulness programs can go a long way in helping you calm down before bedtime. After all, even if you’re using a jet lag-specific app like FlyKitt or Timeshifter, you’ll probably still need a little help coming down after a busy day. From stress relief techniques to breathing exercises, there’s a solution for all your calming needs.

Uplift

Uplift has one singular focus: use nerve stimulation to adjust your internal clock to any time zone in the world. How does it do that? Uplift is a simple four-step program that includes physical exercises that are designed to tap into your biorhythm.

To set up your account on Uplift, you first need to complete a few exercises and then input your results. From there, you’ll receive a customized jet lag prevention program.

Sleep Cycle

Similar to Entrain (below), Sleep Cycle works by analyzing your biometric data related to sleep. From there, the app creates a personalized sleep routine for your needs. The key here is in the details. Because Sleep Cycle dives so deeply into your sleep stats, you can expect a thorough set of recommendations.

The app does this by using sound analysis (so the phone needs to be close to you when you sleep), including snoring, sleep-talking, and other identifiable noises. From there, the app will even suggest necessary sleep aids.

7 Reasons Fort Lauderdale Beats Miami

Judging by a map, you might think Fort Lauderdale and Miami are indistinguishable.

To be fair, they’re both part of the Greater Miami Metropolitan Area, which includes Miami, Ft. Lauderdale, and West Palm Beach. And if you’re unfamiliar with the area, you might drive from one to the other without realizing that you’ve entered a new jurisdiction.

But if you’re from South Florida, then you already know that Miami and Fort Lauderdale are very different.

And while Miami usually takes headlines thanks to its distinct Art Deco architecture, vibrant Haitian and Cuban communities, and associations with all things Latin and sexy, Fort Lauderdale is also worth a visit.

In fact, it might even be the better choice for some travelers.

Ready to zoom out and see in what ways Fort Lauderdale outperforms Miami? Here’s what you need to know about what makes Fort Lauderdale better than its counterpart for some travelers.

7 reasons Fort Lauderdale beats Miami

Reason # 1: It’s more budget-friendly

Miami is one of the flashiest places in the United States. In fact, its skyline is only dwarfed by Chicago and New York City—which I think paints a solid picture of the type of wealth and opulence that’s at play in Miami.

Though travelers can avoid it by staying at hostels and avoiding high-profile establishments, Miami’s prices will catch up to even the savviest saver.

That’s not necessarily the case in Fort Lauderdale. Though the city isn’t short on luxury options, its hotels, restaurants, clubs, shops, rentals, and more are all cheaper than Miami on average. Dining and entertainment, particularly, are more affordable.

The only caveat that I want to point out is public transportation. Neither Fort Lauderdale nor Miami has extensive public transportation, which means you’ll probably need to rent a car to get around. (Although they do have a water taxi!)

Reason # 2: It’s friendlier

Again, let me reiterate: for all its beachy vibes, Miami is still a major urban center. As with any other busy enclave, most locals are more curt than in small towns.

You’ll be able to feel the difference between Miami and Fort Lauderdale. The latter is much more welcoming because the lifestyle is slower-paced.

In fact, some travelers say they return to Fort Lauderdale because they’ve made lasting connections—which is always the marker of a friendly destination.

Reason # 3: The airport is faster and more reliable

Every time I fly into Miami from Europe, something goes awry. Given that Miami is a major hub that frequently faces air traffic delays, that’s not too surprising.

You’ll have much better luck flying in and out of Fort Lauderdale.

Though tickets might not be quite as cheap, the experience is sure to be a lot more streamlined than at MIA. Plus, you can easily take the complimentary Tri-Rail shuttle from the airport into town. It runs every 15-20 minutes.

Reason # 4: Cleaner and more relaxed beaches

It’s hard to beat the big name of Miami’s South Beach. That being said, if you want to soak up coastal views and drink in the sunshine, Fort Lauderdale should be your focus. The city is known for its tranquil, pristine beaches—and they don’t get nearly as rowdy as popular spots in Miami.

Plus, the beachfront resorts in Fort Lauderdale are more affordable than in Miami. Even better, you can find plenty of scuba diving and snorkeling companies that offer service to diving spots like Vista Park Reef.

Reason # 5: Nightlife is still good

No, Fort Lauderdale’s nightlife doesn’t hold a candle to Miami. (I’m sure no one is surprised by that.)

Still, Fort Lauderdale’s nightlife scene isn’t boring by any stretch. Between Las Olas Boulevard to the River Front area, there are enough clubs, bars, and breweries to keep you busy all night long.

Reason # 6: There’s plenty to do—from couples getaways to family activities

With its penchant for nightlife and photo ops, Miami is often recommended for twenty-somethings on bachelorettes, spring break trips, and similar high-energy getaways.

By contrast, Fort Lauderdale has a diverse range of opportunities for all types of travelers.

Family-friendly restaurants and resorts abound, along with secluded spots for couples enjoying a honeymoon or anniversary. Couples, in particular, will find the area’s more relaxed atmosphere bodes well for relaxing at the beach, grabbing a cocktail, or simply disappearing at a secluded, romantic resort.

Reason # 7: It’s the Venice of America

Lastly, I want to reiterate that Fort Lauderdale is renowned for its natural beauty. Its snaking canals and waterways have earned it the moniker of the Venice of America—and it really does fit the bill.

Best of all, Fort Lauderdale has constructed multiple boardwalks and winding pathways that let you explore the city on foot and soak up those lovely views.

Though Miami isn’t hard on the eyes, either, they offer distinct atmospheres. If serenity is on your radar, Fort Lauderdale should be your priority.

5 Cities in Africa Perfect for Solo Travel

Adventurous travelers usually have Africa on their bucket list.

But as the second-largest continent, vague dreams of traveling to Africa won’t cut it.

You need to know which region you’re heading to, and how to get the most out of your trip.

Is the Sahara and its oases on your radar or do you have your sights set on a safari tour?

Do you want to lounge on the beach or disappear in a buzzing food market?

Are you interested in immersive cultural experiences or do you want to head straight to the continent’s wildest frontiers?

Africa is your oyster. But, again, you need to be mindful about staying within scope. It’s easy to waste time and money by trying to experience all of Africa in a single go.

And while it might feel intimidating to travel to a continent as vast and diverse as Africa as a solo traveler, it’s not out of the question.

So long as you know what you want to do, whether head out on a safari or explore ancient ruins, I’ve got suggestions on the best cities in Africa to get started on your way.

As with continents like Asia, make sure to follow local cultural customs. And as with any solo travel trip, be sure to follow the most important safety rules. Aside from that, expect the unexpected.

Best cities in Africa for solo travel: at a glance

  • Safari central: Chobe National Park, Botswana
  • Beachy vibes: Zanzibar, Tanzania
  • Ancient history: Lalibela, Ethiopia
  • Modern marvels: Johannesburg, South Africa
  • Non-stop culture: Antananarivo, Madagascar

Best cities in Africa for solo travel

Safari central: Kasane, Botswana

Chobe National Park (Getty)

If safaris are you focus, head to Kasane, Botswana. This city is famous for two reasons. First, it’s where Richard Burton remarried Elizabeth Taylor back in 1975. Second, it’s located on the ‘Four Corners’, which is where the countries of Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Namibia meet.

That makes it a great starting point for all of your safari adventures.

The nearest park is Botswana’s very first protected safari land, Chobe National Park. That makes it easy to join tours of Chobe—even more than once. But because Kasane is a central hub, you can easily expand your adventures into neighboring countries and hit other landmarks, including the famous Victoria Falls.

Here’s where to stay in Kasane and what to do.

Beachy vibes: Zanzibar, Tanzania

Unguja island (Zanzibar) (Getty)

Zanzibar is the first location on my bucket list. This dreamy island is straight out of a fantasy book with its gorgeous white-walled villages lining the cerulean Indian Ocean. Over the last decade, the island has slowly become a more popular tourist destination, which means you’ll have plenty of familiar infrastructure, from rasta bars to nightclubs.

That being said, Zanzibar is also an ancient island. It’s been occupied for centuries by various forces, which have all left their cultural print. From the food to the historical tours, you’ll be able to feel, taste, and experience a tropical convergence of culture.

Here’s where to stay in Zanzibar and what to do.

Ancient history: Lalibela, Ethiopia

The monolithic church of Saint George, one of the most famous in Lalibela (Getty)

When it comes to ancient history, Egypt’s ancient pyramids and Mali’s Timbuktu are hard to beat. But I’m a culture and history nerd, which means Ethiopia’s Lalibela is my official pick for exploring history in Africa.

Ethiopia is home to a unique sub-sect of Christianity that dates back almost two millennia. And their earliest practitioners left behind many treasures, including rock-hewn monolith churches.

If you’re picturing grand cathedral-like structures, think again. This holy city is home to eleven churches that were carved into monolithic rocks in the ground back in the 12th and 13th centuries. Though you can tour them today, they’re still used for worship and are an important site for Christian pilgrims.

Here’s where to stay in Lalibela and what to do.

Desert dreams: Merzouga, Morocco

Sahara desert, Desert Camp and dunes at sunrise. Morocco

If you want to explore the desert in Africa, you can choose between the Namib Desert and the Sahara. Many of my friends have raved about their experience in Morocco, so I’m sticking with the Sahara.

You can easily explore the desert from Merzouga, which offers a range of hospitality deals for travelers of all budgets.bFrom Merzouga, you can day trip into the Sahara or go on a multi-day tour.

Many tours let you also brush elbows with Berber camps—and Berber culture is incredibly charming and hospitable. If you plan your trip carefully, you can even bundle in historic sites like Ksar of Ait Ben Haddou or Volubilis.

Here’s where to stay in Merzouga and what to do.

Non-stop culture: Antananarivo, Madagascar

The Lake Anosy, Antananarivo (Getty)

Antananarivo, called Tana, is the capital city of Madagascar. I’m recommending it over Lagos, Nigeria because there are more unexpected finds in terms of culture.

(But please keep Lagos on your radar! It’s one of the most innovative and coolest cities in Africa when it comes to pop culture, in my humble opinion.)

Madagascar offers a unique blend of Madagascan, Indian, and European influences. You can experience this in just about every way in Tana, from the architecture to the cuisine to the traditional art galleries.

The city’s lush gardens are also another selling point, as they offer a gorgeous backdrop for you to shop, dine, and explore to your heart’s content.

Here’s where to stay in Tana and what to do.

Top 5 Places to Visit in British Columbia in Spring

No matter the season, British Columbia is an outdoor adventurer’s dreamland.

Known for its rugged coastlines, diverse landscapes, and range of activities, you can climb the mountains and cruise across the sounds in British Columbia at your own pace. That being said, spring is a time when the province comes alive.

With warming weather, you can hike, kayak, mountain bike, and more without facing harsh temperatures.

Still, you don’t face the more humid summer months. There are even spring-specific activities at your fingertips, such as watching black bears wake up from their slumber. (We’ll get to this below.)

But which cities and regions in British Columbia offer the best way to soak up spring’s natural wonders? If you’re hoping to get outdoors in spring, start planning your trip to the province.

Top 5 places in British Columbia to visit in spring: shortcut

  • Whistler: mountain views and alpine activities
  • Squamish: a climber’s paradise
  • Nakusp: hot springs, camping, and more
  • Kelowna: the winery gateway
  • Desolation Sound: remote water adventures

Best places in British Columbia to visit in spring

Whistler: mountain views and alpine activities

Upper Joffre Lake (Getty)

Whistler is one of British Columbia’s most exciting resort towns. Located in the Coast Mountains Range, it’s mostly known as a premier skiing and snowboarding winter destination—or as a dreamy summer getaway. But you’ll have plenty to do in spring, and fewer crowds to contend with.

The bear safari mentioned above is one of Whistler’s coolest spring activities. Along with hiking and tobogganing, you can also mountain bike, golf, fish, and even outdoor yoga. With a dramatic mountain backdrop, you might even feel like you’re in the Swiss Alps at times.

Here’s where to stay in Whistler and what to do.

Squamish: a climber’s paradise

Summit Lodge viewing deck in Squamish (Getty)

Though the views aren’t quite as dramatic, Squamish is located in a valley that showcases the surrounding mountains, including the famous granite massif called Stawamus Chief.

And speaking of rock formations, Squamish is a top destination for rock climbers and boulderers thanks to its granite cliffs, mountains, and bluffs.

Even if climbing isn’t your thing, you’ll find plenty to do in Squamish. Hiking is a popular pastime, with hotspots like Shannon Falls and Murrin Park coming alive when the weather gets warm. You can also kiteboard and windsurf in the city’s ports, or go rafting down the Elaho River.

Here’s where to stay in Squamish and what to do.

Nakusp: hot springs, camping, and more

View of the lakeside walk by Arrow Lake (Getty)

Nestled in the Kuskanax Valley, Nakusp is a gorgeous inland, lakeside destination that teems with life in spring. The area is most famous for its hot springs, which include one natural mineral spring and two developed sites. I’d highly suggest spending a day (or five) at Nakusp Hot Springs.

But you’ll also have plenty to do at North Arrow Lake. Whether hiking around the waterfront or sprawling out at the lakeside beach, there are dozens of ways to enjoy the water. But you can also camp at one of the area’s many campsites—or go big with a chalet rental. Just keep in mind that Naksup is one of the quieter destinations on this list, so be prepared for plenty of downtime.

Here’s where to stay in Nakusp and what to do.

Kelowna: Wineries

View of vineyards in Kelowna (Getty)

Not far from Nakusp waits Kelowna, another lakeside town with a charming atmosphere. That being said, it’s a much larger and more metropolitan zone, letting you enjoy those modern amenities.

In spring, you can soak up the lakeside views, hike through Hardy Falls Park, or even take a cruise on Okanagan Lake with unique day trips.

But Kelowna is also renowned for its wineries. They dot the areas around the city (Okangan Valley) and come alive each April for BC Wine Month. Notable names include Tantalus Vineyards, The View Winery, and Cedar Creek Estate Winery.

Lastly, you can also go birdwatching in spring. From March to May is a popular time for migrations to pass through.

Here’s where to stay in Kelowna and what to do.

Desolation Sound: remote water adventures

Pacific coast of British Columbia, Canada (Getty)

Like the name hints, you won’t find much in Desolation Sound at the tip of British Columbia’s Sunshine Coast. That being said, that’s part of the magic. This gorgeous sound is made up of small islands and inlets where you’re guaranteed privacy to soak up the peaceful views.

It’s a popular choice for kayakers, canoers, and sailors. Or if you want a more hands-off experience, you can join a whale-watching tour, harvest oysters and mussels, and even go swimming as summer approaches. While the views are rugged and misty, the water is often some of the warmest in the country.

Here’s where to stay near Desolation Sound and what to do.

Fly Smart: 7 Best Airports in the US for Long Layovers

Nobody wants a long layover… but we tend to accept them when there’s a dirt-cheap plane ticket on the line.

Still, it’s a hefty trade-off. Even if we know how to nab a day pass from a hotel or have work to catch up on, figuring out how to fill the time of a layover can be difficult. That’s even more true when the layover is less than six hours long.

In that case, should you leave the airport for a little adventure? Should you hunker down and get a nap in? Or head to the duty-free section and splurge?

Ultimately, the choice is yours—but the more choices you have, the better off you’ll be.

If you’re looking to fly smart while saving big on plane tickets, don’t be afraid to take that long layover if it’s at one of the US airports listed below. The rankings are based on amenities like restaurants, shops, charging stations, nearby hotels, nearby restaurants, and more.

Remember: these suggestions are based on not leaving the airport or, if you do, staying in the immediate vicinity. In other words, this isn’t a ranking based on the best day trips accessible from major airports.

Best airports for long layovers in the US

Seattle-Tacoma: Great for shopping

The view from Seattle-Tacoma Airport (Getty)

Seattle-Tacoma Airport might be small with a single terminal, but it’s home to over 50 shops. (To clarify: the airport has two satellite buildings that you can also explore.) But it’s not just the standard fare of makeup and souvenirs. Seattle-Tacoma is home to unique shops like SUB POP Records, Seattle Chocolate, and other boutique projects.

The cherry on top? You can see Mt. Rainier from many parts of the airport.

Atlanta: Unexpected surprises—and a functional setup

Travelers inside the main hall of Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (Getty)

I flew through Atlanta twice in the last month—and both experiences were pretty top-tier. Though it’s the busiest airport in the US, its train system is fast and functional, which I think is worth mentioning all on its own.

But it’s the tiny details that matter at Atlanta Airport.

The airport offers unique artistic experiences, from its large-scale projects to its smaller initiatives. When I was passing through, a live cellist was performing in the food court, filling the airport with calming classic songs. In fact, the airport is home to over 1,000 unique pieces.

LAX: Best range of amenities

Los Angeles International Airport (Getty)

The key to LAX’s success is that passengers stuck on long layovers can wander from the domestic to the international terminals. Usually, the best dining and shopping options are kept in the international terminal—but you can explore everything this airport has to offer.

There are restaurants that you’ll actually want to eat at (from fresh-cut sushi to oven-fired pizzas, world-class spas that can get you through anything, art galleries, and dozens of lounges—many of which are open to economy ticket holders.  

San Francisco: A prime spot for relaxation

San Francisco International Airport (Getty)

Back in 2022, SFO was named the Best Airport in North America by the Airports International Council—so what makes San Fran so great for travelers with long layovers? It’s all about the mindfulness.

SFO has implemented unique programs to streamline its processes, from specialized flight times to minimize noise pollution to its outdoor observation decks.

Like other busy hubs, you can shop and eat to your heart’s content. But many passengers rave about the relaxing amenities. Along with lounges that are open to economy ticket holders, you can also enjoy free yoga, head to the observation deck to drink in some sunlight and watch the planes take off, or head to one of the day-use rooms at the nearby Hyatt.

Denver: Local hits and iconic architecture

Exterior of Denver Airport (Getty)

There’s a little bit of everything at Denver International Airport. Its shops and restaurants are dotted with homegrown projects, from on-site breweries to independent bookstores. Similar to Seattle-Tacoma, it’s not large—but it’s functional and enjoyable.

It’s also impossible not to mention DEN’s unique tent-like Jeppesen Terminal, which is one of the most iconic pieces of airport architecture in the US.

Miami: Great shopping, better dining

Artwork in Miami airport, Florida, USA (Getty)

Similar to Denver International Airport, Miami International Airport has plenty of homegrown brands (including Cuban food) that make any layover feel less like an endless slog. Along with a handful of local dining and shopping options, you can also explore art galleries and exhibits that highlight the city’s identity.

Given its size, Miami Airport is also home to spas, meditation rooms, a yoga room, and outdoor park areas with some greenery and benches.

Detroit: A modern, artistic surprise

Detroit Metro International Airport (Getty)

Detroit has one of the US’s sleekest airports—and it’s still improving as of 2025. Thanks to recent upgrades that include wide walkways and unique concourses, the airport is a breeze to navigate.

In fact, with its famous Light Tunnel, you might even enjoy your walk. When its time to hunker down for a while, you can do so at the full-service spa, a sit-down restaurant, or in one of the many lounges.

6 Best Things to Do Outdoors in Fayetteville, West Virginia

Fayetteville, West Virginia was nothing like I expected when I visited with my family back in 2015.

After my family reunited at the airport, we rented a car and took off with plans to explore the New River Gorge area. The weekend getaway turned out to be one of our favorite adventures in recent years.

Not only was the gorge even more stunning than in photos, but the relaxed town and friendly atmosphere stood out.

It felt like Olive Garden—when you’re in Fayetteville, West Virginia, you’re family.

Though we spent most of our time out on the New River Gorge (hiking, rafting, and learning about the area’s history), we barely grazed the surface of Fayetteville’s extensive outdoor offerings. In fact, we’ve been planning a return trip to the area for years.

As we build out our dream list of places to go and things to do, I figured I’d cover what’s on our radar. In my opinion, Fayetteville is a hidden gem for travelers who prefer budget destinations with ample outdoor adventures.

Best of all, many companies offer discounts in April—so you can save big by booking one of these adventures in the coming month.

6 outdoor things to do in Fayetteville, WV

Raft down New River Gorge with Adventures on the Gorge or ACE Adventure Resort

New River Gorge (Getty)

Whether or not you want to white water raft down New River Gorge, this place should be on your bucket list. It’s easily one of the most stunning places I’ve visited in the United States and remains my favorite Appalachian enclave.

Picture a rushing, clear-water river nestled between two dramatic, heavily forested ridges.

My family and I stayed at Adventures on the Gorge. The same company also organized our white water rafting adventure and zipline tours. There’s almost a never-ending list of activities and special events, especially during the warmer summer months. You can also stay at ACE Adventure Resort, which is the other major adventure company serving the New River Gorge.

BASE jump from the New River Gorge Bridge (or watch!)

New River Gorge bridge in West Virginia (Getty)

Each year, Fayetteville celebrates Bridge Day. Bridge Day commemorates the first time a BASE jumper leaped from the New Gorge Bridge back in 1979, which stands at 876 feet. Since then, Bridge Day (held each October) has attracted thousands of spectators and hundreds of BASE jumpers.

Personally, I’d watch the action (which now includes events like rappelling) rather than join in—but I’ll leave that up to you. Regardless, Fayetteville is proud of this event and makes spectating easy.

Zipline near the river

TripAdvisor (River Expeditions)

Unsurprisingly, you can find more than one zip-lining company in and around Fayetteville. I’d recommend bundling a zipline adventure with your whitewater rafting plans.

My family went ziplining at Adventures on the Gorge; you can also zipline with the other rafting company, ACE Adventure Resort.

Aside from those two options, you can also head to the slightly more challenging course at River Expeditions, which is another rafting company that serves the area. Along with its ziplining cables, you can also take part in a cargo net climb, sky bridge, and rappelling adventure.

Hike the Long Point Trail and Kaymoor Miner’s Trail

Spring at New River Gorge National Park (Getty)

You won’t be short on hiking opportunities in Fayetteville. In fact, you might feel a little overwhelmed by how many trails are in the vicinity.

I recommend taking the Long Point Trail, which is a simple out-and-back trail that includes lake views. Kaymoor Miner’s is another popular pick thanks to the lush forests—just keep in mind that it’s a little steep.

Go Geocaching at Babcock State Park

Glade Creek Grist Mill in Babcock State Park (Getty)

Geocaching is a mobile-ready outdoor adventure—sort of like a scavenger hunt. Using a smartphone that has GPS features, visitors can take to Babcock State Park to seek out its two geocaches.

These geocaches are hidden, waterproofed boxes where expert navigators can sign their name in the logbook, and then set the geocache back in place for another adventurer to find. Currently, Babcock State Park has two cache sites for you to seek out.

Rent a mountain bike and hit the trails

If hiking a little too one-speed for you, then rent a mountain bike and hit the trails at hyper-speed. There are a handful of mountain bike rental shops in Fayetteville—and locals are more than happy to help you learn the ropes if you’ve never shopped around for mountain bikes before.

New Rivers Bikes, Marathon Bicycle Company, and Arrowhead Bike Farm are all full-service bike shops that offer mountain bikes for sale and/or rent. I’d suggest asking the owners about suitable trails for your experience level—some trails might be too steep for casual bikers.

I’d suggest starting out at Arrowhead Bike Farm. The word ‘farm’ describes the scenic area where you can actually ride the bikes you just rented. (They also have camping.)

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