PNW vs ASW
You’re trying to decide between visiting the Pacific Northwest or the American Southwest, huh? It can be a difficult decision for sure, however not an impossible one! Let’s go through some of the pros and cons of both and hopefully help you narrow down your choices!
First thing is first, what time of the year are you going to travel? Do you have all year or maybe just a few days? If you are going for a summer, the PNW might just be a perfect choice. With temperate climates, some mountains up there have snow on their peaks year-round! Rarely getting above about 90F in the summer, the Northern Cascades offer some of the most jaw dropping views in the entire lower 48 states. Mountains and waterfalls abound, you will also run into quite a few other travelers, (maybe even me! haha!), however that might not be for everyone. Some people prefer their privacy out in the wilderness and may want to go where people are not!
Highline Trail, Glacier NP, Montana
If solitude is your preference, then maybe the ASW for the summer is for you! Fewer van-lifers and travelers are willing to brave the heat for some incredible desert adventures, leaving more of that desert magic for you to enjoy! Sand dunes and steep canyons carve out beautiful landscapes, though make sure to bring some clothing that will prepare you for the heat! Temperatures can reach 120F+ in certain areas around Nevada, Southern California, and Arizona. While personally I would recommend visiting the desert in the winter, as the snow provides a wonderful contrast to the desert earth!
Glenn Canyon, Grand Escalante, Utah
Next, consider what you would like to do on your vacation! Are you interested in going backpacking and exploring the ancient secrets of the wilderness? Or are you looking for a way to relax and try some new foods? You can absolutely do both! The PNW is known for breweries and new/eclectic food combinations, along with having more than a few ways to enjoy the wilderness! From picking berries on mountaintops for lunch, to enjoying an evening walking about the city, Portland and Seattle offer beautiful opportunities to have any kind of day you want!
On the other side of the spectrum, the American Southwest provides more than ample chance to experience the solitude of the desert and steep yourself in the culture of Native Americans! Explore ghost towns and climb ancient coral reefs, visit historical sites and learn the history of how the ASW came to be! Geologic wonders await around every bend and give the feeling of possibly being one of the first people to stand there in hundreds of years!
No matter where you go in the United States, adventure awaits you! If it’s hiking and exploring, or just visiting local towns and trying new foods, there is sure to be an amazing experience within reach!
Great Sand Dunes NP, Colorado