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.
-
Destinations
By Stephen Hanson
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.
By Stephen Hanson
Read More
-
Destinations
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.
By Stephen Hanson
Read More
-
Destinations
By Stephen Hanson
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.
By Stephen Hanson
Read More
-
Destinations
By Stephen Hanson
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.
By Stephen Hanson
Read More
-
Destinations
By Stephen Hanson
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.
By Stephen Hanson
Read More
-
Outdoor Adventure
By Stephen Hanson
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.
By Stephen Hanson
Read More
-
Outdoor Adventure
By Stephen Hanson
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.
By Stephen Hanson
Read More
-
Outdoor Adventure
By Stephen Hanson
Utah offers sprawling landscapes with rich and unique experiences, like those available in the state's largest national forest, a getaway with few crowds.
By Stephen Hanson
Read More
-
Destinations
By Stephen Hanson
This stunning trail in Michigan boasts some of the best views on the Upper Peninsula along with dazzling cliffs, pristine beaches, and rushing waterfalls.
By Stephen Hanson
Read More
-
Outdoor Adventure
By Stephen Hanson
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.
By Stephen Hanson
Read More
-
Travel Guides
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.
By Stephen Hanson
Read More
-
Destinations
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.
By Stephen Hanson
Read More
-
Destinations
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.
By Stephen Hanson
Read More
-
Destinations
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.
By Stephen Hanson
Read More
-
Outdoor Adventure
By Stephen Hanson
These stunning adjacent sandstone canyons in Utah are the perfect option for adventure-seekers looking for natural beauty and uncrowded scenery.
By Stephen Hanson
Read More
-
Travel Guides
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.
By Stephen Hanson
Read More
-
Travel Guides
By Stephen Hanson
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.
By Stephen Hanson
Read More
-
Outdoor Adventure
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.
By Stephen Hanson
Read More
-
Destinations
By Stephen Hanson
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.
By Stephen Hanson
Read More
-
Destinations
By Stephen Hanson
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.
By Stephen Hanson
Read More
-
Destinations
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.
By Stephen Hanson
Read More
-
Destinations
By Stephen Hanson
Get a glimpse into the nation's colorful and culturally fascinating history in New Mexico's "open book of human history" full of mesas and canyons.
By Stephen Hanson
Read More
-
Destinations
By Stephen Hanson
Avoid Yosemite crowds by hiking an under-the-radar trail with similar views of awe-inspiring granite rocks and towering sequoia trees in California.
By Stephen Hanson
Read More
-
Destinations
By Stephen Hanson
The highest point in Arkansas is accessible within a mountainous state park that offers gorgeous views of the surrounding nature and adventurous excursions.
By Stephen Hanson
Read More
-
Destinations
By Stephen Hanson
This state park in North Carolina can compete with bigger national parks nearby with its stunning views, well-maintained trails, and rock climbing spots.
By Stephen Hanson
Read More
-
Outdoor Adventure
By Stephen Hanson
History buffs must check out a quaint homestead within Utah’s little-known Capitol Reef National Park. You can enjoy traditional pies and see gorgeous canyons.
By Stephen Hanson
Read More
-
Outdoor Adventure
By Stephen Hanson
While South Dakota and Utah's badlands might be better known, New Mexico's colorful rock formations and remote badland wilderness is worth a visit.
By Stephen Hanson
Read More