Off the beaten path but not lost | Family RV Life, Jeepin’, and Travel

San Juan County Road 2 winds through ghost towns, waterfalls, and mining ruins, and it also links Cinnamon and Engineer Pass. You will see some of the best views in the San Juans. In this episode, we share our favorite stops along the way — from Maggie Gulch to Animas Forks — plus other spur trails that make this route unforgettable. Whether you’re planning your own Alpine Loop adventure or just love Colorado mountain history, San Juan County Road 2 is the perfect blend of beauty, accessibility, and backcountry charm. 💬 Send us your favorite idea: thefaiolas.com/sayhi Show notes: thefaiolas.com/162 Website: https://thefaiolas.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefaiolas/ Send us a message: https://thefaiolas.com/message

Engineer Pass in Colorado is one of the highest and most dramatic sections of the Alpine Loop—and it definitely tested our nerves. In this episode, we share what it was really like to drive Engineer Pass after warming up on Cinnamon. We discuss the differences between the two trails, the ghost towns and historic stops along the way, and why this Jeep Badge of Honor trail is worth the challenge. From Capitol City to Rose’s Cabin, the history here is just as breathtaking as the views. 💬 Send us your favorite idea: thefaiolas.com/sayhi Show notes: thefaiolas.com/161 Website: https://thefaiolas.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefaiolas/ Send us a message: https://thefaiolas.com/message

Ready for a ride through Colorado’s high country? In this episode, we take you over Cinnamon Pass, one of the most scenic stretches of the Alpine Loop. At 12,640 feet, this rugged trail connects Lake City to the ghost town of Animas Forks and serves up a mix of switchbacks, mining history, and jaw-dropping mountain views. We share what to expect on the road, when to visit, and tips for making the drive safely. 👉 Listen now and start planning your own trip through the San Juans! 💬 Send us your favorite idea: thefaiolas.com/sayhi Show notes: thefaiolas.com/160 Website: https://thefaiolas.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefaiolas/ Send us a message: https://thefaiolas.com/message

In this episode of Off the Beaten Path but Not Lost, we take you to Lake City, Colorado — a small mountain town with a big reputation for adventure. Lake City is known for its peaks, ghost towns, and staging for the legendary Alpine Loop. Lake City is the perfect launch point into the San Juan backcountry. We’ll share our first impressions, what makes this town so unique, and why it should be on your must-visit list in Colorado. 💬 Send us your favorite idea: thefaiolas.com/sayhi Show notes: thefaiolas.com/159 Website: https://thefaiolas.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefaiolas/ Send us a message: https://thefaiolas.com/message

In this Road Note, Kylie and Lexie give us a behind-the-scenes look at their latest RV adventure, running their own booth at the campground craft show! Every Saturday, the campground has a small craft show, and these two have fully embraced their roles as creative kidpreneurs. From their own 3D printed custom designs and handmade earrings to slime and custom stickers, they're making, selling, and managing it all themselves (no help from Mom and Dad!). 🎧 Got a young entrepreneur in your rig? We’d love to hear about what they’re selling! Send us a voice message at: thefaiolas.com/sayhi Website: https://thefaiolas.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefaiolas/ Send us a message: https://thefaiolas.com/message

Welcome to our new mini-episode series, Road Notes — short, real-time check-ins from wherever the road takes us! In this Road Notes, Kylie and Lexie share their must-haves for staying entertained, comfy, and snack-happy on the road. From cozy blankets to favorite snacks and screen-free boredom busters, they’re giving you a peek into their backseat bags. Got your own road trip must-haves? Share them with us at: thefaiolas.com/sayhi Website: https://thefaiolas.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefaiolas/ Send us a message: https://thefaiolas.com/message

Can you really work full-time while living on the road? We share how working while RVing full-time actually works for us—from gear and internet tips to the balance of routine and adventure. 💬 Send us your favorite idea: thefaiolas.com/sayhi Show notes: thefaiolas.com/158 Website: https://thefaiolas.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefaiolas/ Send us a message: https://thefaiolas.com/message

July didn’t go quite as planned — but that’s just part of the RV life adventure. In this episode, we’re catching you up on everything from our Jeep accident update to exploring Gunnison and how wildfires forced us to pivot (again). We’re sharing favorite trails near Cortez and Gunnison and why sometimes Plan B turns out even better than Plan A. 💬 Send us your favorite idea: thefaiolas.com/sayhi Show notes: thefaiolas.com/157 Website: https://thefaiolas.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefaiolas/ Send us a message: https://thefaiolas.com/message

Wondering if a Jeep is the right tow vehicle for RV life? Here’s how we flat tow ours, the gear we use, the mistakes we’ve made, and why it works for our travels. 💬 Send us your favorite idea: thefaiolas.com/sayhi Show notes: thefaiolas.com/156 Website: https://thefaiolas.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefaiolas/ Send us a message: https://thefaiolas.com/message

After more than six years on the road—and hundreds of nights off-grid—we’re sharing our take on boondocking in an RV vs. staying in campgrounds. From the freedom and views of dispersed camping to the comforts and community of RV parks, we’re breaking down the real pros and cons of each. In this episode, we talk about: Boondocking for beginners Our favorite spots for boondocking When we choose campgrounds over boondocking—and why Our top RV boondocking tips from years of experience Whether you’re brand new to RV life or ready to try your first night under the stars, this episode will help you find the balance that fits your travel style best. 💬 Send us your favorite idea: thefaiolas.com/sayhi Show notes: thefaiolas.com/155 Website: https://thefaiolas.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefaiolas/ Send us a message: https://thefaiolas.com/message

In this episode, we take you along for one of our favorite Arizona adventures — camping, boondocking, and off-roading through the Coconino National Forest! 🌲🚙 We share how we found the perfect boondocking spot on Forest Road 128, explored Forest Road 128 to Marshall Lake, Anderson Mesa via Winona Ranch Road, and celebrated Tony’s birthday with a full day of fun at Cinder Hills OHV. From wildlife sightings to steak dinners with a view (and even testing out our new Ironman 4x4 Bush Toilet 😄). 💬 Send us your favorite idea: thefaiolas.com/sayhi Show notes: thefaiolas.com/154 Website: https://thefaiolas.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefaiolas/ Send us a message: https://thefaiolas.com/message

First-timer’s guide to Overland Expo West 2025—see what we bought, what we skipped, and what made the biggest impression. Rooftop tents, gear, and tips! 💬 Send us your favorite idea: thefaiolas.com/sayhi Show notes: thefaiolas.com/153 Website: https://thefaiolas.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefaiolas/ Send us a message: https://thefaiolas.com/message

Have you ever wondered what kids think about RV living? In episode 152 of our podcast, we decided to find out by handing the mic to our daughters and asking them a mix of real-life questions, honest reflections, and a few totally ridiculous scenarios. After six years of living full-time on the road, they’re basically pros and trust us, they’ve got opinions. 💬 Send us your favorite idea: thefaiolas.com/sayhi Show notes: thefaiolas.com/152 Website: https://thefaiolas.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefaiolas/ Send us a message: https://thefaiolas.com/message

Today we’re stepping behind the bars of Yuma Territorial Prison, where life in the brutal desert heat mixed with unexpected luxuries like electricity, a library, and even a prison band! From stagecoach robbers to gunslingers faster than Doc Holliday, we’re sharing outrageous true stories from one of the West’s most infamous prisons. Was it truly the 'Hellhole of the West'? Tune in to find out! 💬 Send us your favorite idea: thefaiolas.com/sayhi Show notes: thefaiolas.com/151 Website: https://thefaiolas.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefaiolas/ Send us a message: https://thefaiolas.com/message

In this laid-back catch-up episode, we’re sharing what we’ve been up to these past few months—from heartfelt goodbyes to off-road thrills and a whole lot of desert exploring. We spent quality time with family in Yuma, Arizona, soaking in the sunshine and checking out spots like the Yuma Territorial Prison and the Valley of the Names. Plus, we upgraded the Jeep, purged the RV, and made some big moves before heading into Queen, New Mexico, to map a new trail for Trails Offroad. You're in the right place if you're looking for things to do in Yuma, love RV life, or just want to hear what’s next for our off-roading adventures. We’re talking family visits, Jeep mods, future travel plans, and a few hidden gems you’ll want to add to your road trip list. 💬 Send us your favorite idea: thefaiolas.com/sayhi Show notes: thefaiolas.com/150 Website: https://thefaiolas.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefaiolas/ Send us a message: https://thefaiolas.com/message

After six years of full-time RV life with kids, dogs, and more lessons than we can count, we're answering the big question: Is RV life really worth it? From the wins to the growing pains, here's our honest look at what it’s taught us—and why we'd still choose this lifestyle all over again. 💬 Send us your favorite idea: thefaiolas.com/sayhi Show notes: thefaiolas.com/149 Website: https://thefaiolas.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefaiolas/ Send us a message: https://thefaiolas.com/message

Finding time for each other isn’t always easy—especially when you’re living in 300 square feet with kids, a busy travel schedule, and a never-ending to-do list. In this episode, we’re sharing our favorite real-life RV date night ideas when you have kids, and how we create meaningful couple time in the middle of everyday chaos. Whether you're full-time RVing or just trying to stay connected in a small space, this one’s for you. From campfire chats to movie nights with AirPods, we’re diving into what RV couple time with kids actually looks like—and how to make it work. 💬 Send us your favorite idea: thefaiolas.com/sayhi Show notes: thefaiolas.com/148 Website: https://thefaiolas.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefaiolas/ Send us a message: https://thefaiolas.com/message

We’re heading to Theodore Roosevelt National Park in the heart of the North Dakota Badlands! In this episode, we’re diving into the park’s rugged beauty, fascinating wildlife, and the rich history that helped shape America's conservation legacy. We’ll share everything you need to know—from the best scenic drives and hiking trails to where to spot bison, wild horses, and prairie dogs. Plus, we’ll take a look back at Roosevelt’s time at Elkhorn Ranch, explore stargazing under the park’s dark skies, and offer tips for planning your visit. Share your favorite memory with us! Leave a voice message at thefaiolas.com/message and we might feature your story in a future episode! Show notes: thefaiolas.com/147 Website: https://thefaiolas.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefaiolas/ Send us a message: https://thefaiolas.com/message

Hidden in the southwestern corner of Alberta, Waterton Lakes National Park is waiting to be explored. While Banff and Jasper steal the spotlight, Waterton offers mountains and lakes without the crowds. In this episode, we explore what makes Waterton special, its fascinating history, top things to do, and insider tips for RVers and adventurers. Whether you're planning a trip or just dreaming of your next outdoor escape, don't miss this guide to one of Canada’s most underrated national parks. 🚐 Have you visited Waterton? Share your favorite memory with us! Leave a voice message at thefaiolas.com/message and we might feature your story in a future episode! Show notes: thefaiolas.com/146 Website: https://thefaiolas.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefaiolas/ Send us a message: https://thefaiolas.com/message

Banff National Park has stunning landscapes, wildlife, and must-see destinations. In this episode, we’re taking you on a drive-through guide, highlighting scenic stops, top hikes, and hidden gems. 🚗 Where should you stop? 🏕 Where can you camp? 🐻 What wildlife might you see? We’re covering it all! Have a Banff story to share? Leave us a voice message at thefaiolas.com/message, and let us know your favorite spot! Show notes: thefaiolas.com/145 Website: https://thefaiolas.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefaiolas/ Send us a message: https://thefaiolas.com/message