giant travel side

These ‘World’s Largest’ roadside attractions prove that sometimes, bigger really is better

From a giant pistachio to an entire town dedicated to big things, here are 10 larger-than-life objects worth braking for

By Roadtrippers

While there are plenty of larger-than-life roadside attractions, only a few can truly hold the title of “World’s Largest.” It’s often a lengthy and costly process to become a world-record holder (Guinness outlines the process here ), and there’s no guarantee that you’ll be on top for long. But even if an object’s height or weight is eventually eclipsed by something taller or heavier, its outsized proportions are still likely to impress. 

Built along popular routes and in small towns across the U.S. to capture the attention of travelers with limited time and money, these 10 former, current, or simply aspirational World’s Largest attractions—one of which is made up of more than 40,000 really small things—prove that sometimes, bigger really is better.

Here are 10 of the best places to brake for big things across the U.S.

1. World’s Largest Pistachio

The World’s Largest Pistachio is not a real pistachio, but the 30-foot-tall green-and-white concrete sculpture in Alamogordo is nutty enough to attract travelers on their way through Albuquerque, Roswell, or Las Cruces, New Mexico. McGinn’s Pistachioland is an 111-acre pistachio farm, vineyard, and souvenir shop billed as “the nuttiest place in New Mexico.”

The big pistachio is dedicated to the ranch’s founder, Thomas McGinn, who died in 2007. A plaque explains: “Tom dreamed big, expected big, and accomplished big things. He would have said this monument is not big enough. His legacy lives on.” After the towering tree nut lures you in, stop and stretch your legs in the extensive gift shop, which sells everything from custom squished pennies to pistachio-printed socks, and, of course, sacks of McGinn’s signature nuts (a sign in the parking lot reads “Parking for nuts only, all others will be cracked”).

2. World’s Largest Cuckoo Clock

Built in 1972, and featured on the cover of The Guinness Book of World Records in 1977, Ohio’s World’s Largest Cuckoo Clock has since been eclipsed by others (the current record holder is a clock in Germany featuring a 330-pound cuckoo bird). The working clock was commissioned for the Alpine Alpa Restaurant in Wilmot, Ohio, but when the restaurant closed in 2009, it was moved to Sugarcreek, a town in the heart of Amish country known as “The Little Switzerland of Ohio.” The 23-foot-tall, brightly-painted clock is located outside at the corner of N. Broadway and E. Main streets; every half hour, a cuckoo bird pops out along with a Swiss polka band and a dancing couple.

3. World’s Largest Ball of Sisal Twine

Started by Frank Stoeber in 1953, the World’s Largest Ball of Sisal Twine has a circumference of 46 feet and weighs 27,017 pounds (as of March 2022). Located 30 miles south of the (oft-disputed) geographic center of the U.S. in Cawker City, Kansas, since 1961, the ball is a constant work in progress, currently comprising more than 8.5 million feet of sisal twine. Visitors wishing to contribute to the record-holding ball can stop in to Cawker City’s newest attraction, Eyegore’s Odditorium and Monster Museum , located just across Lake Drive, for a length of twine and instructions on how to properly contribute to the community landmark.

4. Casey, Illinois

Featuring more than 30 larger-than-life objects (including 12 world-record holders), Casey, Illinois, has fully embraced its reputation as a small town full of big things. Mail a letter from the World’s Largest Mailbox , play 18 holes at the Casey Country Club—home of the World’s Largest Golf Tee —and watch the World’s Largest Barber Pole spin slowly while you get trim at Tina’s Barber Shop on West Main Street.

The World’s Largest Rocking Chair is too large to sit in (except in special circumstances ), but several of the installations are interactive photo ops, including the big baseball bat and an oversized mouse trap (slip under the metal bar beneath a sign that says, “Help me! I’m trapped in Casey, Illinois”).

5. World’s Largest Miniature Circus

The Ringling campus in Sarasota, Florida, includes museums dedicated to fine art and circus artifacts, a theater, education center, and Ca’ d’Zan, the Venetian Gothic former home of John Ringling, one of several famous Ringling brothers. The circus museum is home to posters, costumes, and props from the Greatest Show on Earth, but the crown jewel of the collection is The Howard Bros. Circus. 

Named for its creator, Howard Tibbals, the 3,800-square-foot model of miniatures is staggering in both its sprawling scope and diminutive scale (each three-fourths of an inch equals a foot). The 44,000-piece recreation of a Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey circus took Tibbals more than 50 years to construct, and it includes everything you’d expect and more, including billboards, trains, trapeze artists, clowns, ticket booths, elephants, zebras, tigers, and, of course, a big top.

6. World’s Largest Teapot

The World’s Largest Teapot started its life as a wooden root beer barrel advertising Hire’s Root Beer. In 1938, the barrel was sold to William Devon, who then added a spout and handle, and covered it in tin. Reimagined as a teapot, the structure stood in front of Devon’s teapot store selling souvenirs and concessions. After it was abandoned in the 1980s, the 14-foot-high teapot was restored and moved to Chester, West Virginia, in the early ‘90s (just across the border from East Liverpool, Ohio). Despite still advertising candy, hotdogs, and pop, the red-and-white teapot is no longer in operation; its current location—next to the Jennings Randolph Bridge Ramp, at the junction of State Route 2 and U.S. Route 30—isn’t ideal for much more than a quick photo op. 

7. World’s Largest Basket

Driving down State Route 16 in Newark, Ohio, it’s hard to miss the former headquarters of the Longaberger basket company. The 9,000-ton basket-shaped building was dreamed up by founder Dave Longaberger and modeled after his company’s best-selling Market Basket. Longaberger died not long after its completion, and his once-billion-dollar company declared bankruptcy and abandoned the basket in 2015. 

The 180,000-square-foot, seven-story structure has a surprisingly subdued interior featuring a 30,000-square-foot atrium topped with a glass ceiling and 150-ton handles. For sale intermittently over the past several years, the basket is currently off the market ; previous plans had been to possibly convert the space into another corporate headquarters, a boutique hotel, communal offices, or market-rate housing. 

Related Longaberger’s bizarre headquarters faces uncertain future

8. World’s Largest Operational Frying Pan

There are several frying pans vying for the title of World’s Largest, leading would-be competitors to add hyper-specific qualifiers or spelling quirks to their entries, such as the World’s Largest Nonstick Frying Pan and Iowa’s Largest Fryin’ Pan. Rose Hill, North Carolina, boasts its own variation, the World’s Largest Operational Frying Pan : The 2-ton pan, which has a circumference of 45 feet and a 6-foot handle, can hold 200 gallons of cooking oil. 

Built in 1963 by the Ramsey Feed Company, the pan comprises several separate wedges and sits on 40 gas burners. With a cooking capacity of 365 chickens, the pan is used during the North Carolina poultry jubilee as well as for community fundraising events.

9. World’s Largest Czech Egg

Located in Wilson, “The Czech Capital of Kansas,” the 20-foot-tall, 15-foot-wide World’s Largest Czech Egg sits upright under a dedicated pavilion in Ed & LaVange Shiroky Park. The fiberglass egg was built in 2012, painted in a traditional black, red, and yellow Czech pattern by local artist Christine Slechta, and erected in its current location in 2016. Wilson, a tiny town with a population of under 1,000, attracts visitors from all over at the end of July for its annual After Harvest Czech Festival, which features a parade, arts and crafts vendors, and the Miss Kansas Czech/Slovak Queen Pageant.

Related The ‘Czech Capital of Kansas’ celebrates its heritage with a larger-than-life egg

10. World’s Largest Working Fire Hydrant

Several fire hydrants line the square in front of Beaumont’s Fire Museum of Texas, but only one held the title of World’s Largest for 2 years after it was built. Eclipsed by subsequent hydrants in Canada and South Carolina, Beaumont’s black-and-white-spotted big thing was donated to the city in 1999 by the Walt Disney Company to celebrate the re-release of 101 Dalmatians . The 4,500-pound fiberglass-and-steel hydrant was assembled in Anaheim, California, at Disneyland; now qualified as the World’s Largest Working Fire Hydrant, the structure is capable of spraying 1,500 gallons of water a minute.

Meet the Author

Roadtrippers

Roadtrippers helps you find the most epic destinations and detours—from roadside attractions to natural wonders and beyond.

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Think Twice About Carrying Bear Spray This Summer

Forget aspen: visit this delightful colorado town, america's deadliest lake is also one of its most beautiful.

Travelers visit places for different reasons. While some enjoy sampling new cuisines, others love traveling to exotic locales to experience the culture. Meanwhile, some love to travel via road-tripping to spot unusual roadside attractions . Lovers of road trips and quirky tourist attractions won't want to pass up a chance to tour the USA, specifically for its giant roadside attractions. From giant elephants to massive office chairs, these monstrous roadside attractions in the US are a must-see for curious road trippers!

10 The Jolly Green Giant

Head over to Blue Earth in Minnesota to witness the Jolly Green Giant in all his green glory. Standing at 55 feet (or 17 meters), this giant statue is the same mascot seen on packages of frozen vegetables at the grocery store. That's because the statue symbolizes the ties between Blue Earth city and the American vegetable company Green Giant. This happy statue can be easily spotted by U.S. Highway 169, specifically along Green Giant Lane!

9 Lucy The Elephant

This cute, six-story elephant statue can be spotted in Margate City inside Josephine Harron Park. Considered a Historic Landmark by the National Park Registry, this beloved elephant sculpture was first built in 1881. Since then, it's dazzled curious travelers, both kids and adults!

8 World's Largest Basket

Located in Newark, Ohio, this larger-than-life basket resembles a wicker picnic basket that stands tall at seven stories! Built by the Longaberger Basket Company, it was built to resemble the company's medium-sized basket. As the corporate office for the former Longaberger Basket Company (now defunct), Ohio plans to convert the basket-shaped landmark into a luxury hotel.

7 Tallest Grandfather Clock

When someone asks for the time in Kewaunee, Wisconsin, just point them to the Tallest Grandfather Clock. Standing at about 36 feet (or about 11 m), this Colonial-style clock can be spotted on the Ahnapee State Trail Head along Miller and Milwaukee Street. Despite being a roadside attraction, this classy clock is functional, much like a mesmerizing clock tower ! Visitors can even hear gentle hums from the clock's internal chimes.

RELATED: Step Back In Time Walking Along Bethlehem's Hoover-Mason Trestle

6 World's Largest Buffalo

Looking to spot a buffalo? Instead of seeking a herd, why not spot the World's Largest Buffalo in Jamestown, North Dakota? Depicting an American Bison , this massive sculpture can be found in front of the National Buffalo Museum, guarding the Frontier Village. Made of concrete, this massive buffalo sculpture weighs 60 tons!

5 Biggest Ball Of Twine

Though it may be peculiar to outsiders, the World's Largest Ball of Twine symbolizes Cawker City in Kansas. The twine was first constructed in 1953 by Frank Stoeber. However, since its creation, locals (and visitors) started adding their own twine to the ball, which eventually grew into a massive structure, standing at over 8 feet (or about 2.5 m)!

4 World's Tallest Thermometer

Though California cities like Los Angeles or San Francisco are well-known among avid travelers, quirky attractions lovers know Baker is home to the World's Tallest Thermometer! Towering at 134 feet (or 41 m), this massive thermometer measures the local temperature. In fact, it once recorded a record-high temperature of 134°F (or approximately 57 °C)! This monstrous thermometer stands tall, situated in the Mojave Desert by Baker Boulevard.

RELATED: What Made California's Bowling Ball Beach? (Here's How Can You Visit)

3 World's Largest Office Chair

Take a road trip and venture to Anniston in Alabama, to encounter the World's Largest Office Chair. Though it may remind some travelers of their work office back home, the World's Largest Office Chair is an impressive steel display. Constructed in 1981 with an idea by Leonard Miller (owner of Miller's Office Supplies), it took 10 tons of steel to create this massive attraction, which stands at 33 feet (or 10.08 m)!

2 Chester Teapot

Regarded as the world's largest teapot, the Chester Teapot is proudly displayed in West Virginia's Chester city. Standing at 14 feet (or 4.3 m), this massive teapot was constructed in 1938 by William Devon using a wooden hogshead barrel! Today, the teapot sits along Highway 30, in a place of where Rock Springs amusement park used to be.

1 Dog Bark Inn

Located in Cottonwood, Idaho, the Dog Bark Inn is more than just giant statues of cute dogs. As its name suggests, this attraction doubles as a bed and breakfast! Perfect for dog lovers of all ages, visitors can meet the 30-foot beagle, Sweet Willy, while booking a couple of nights at this boutique accommodation. Upon entering, guests will notice a unified canine theme throughout the stay, from dog-themed paintings to cute knick-knacks!

7 of the Best Large Travel Mugs (Plus Extra Large Mugs Too!)

GGC Coffee has hand selected several types of large, and very large, travel mugs to meet your needs. We’ve filtered through what we think would be the best options for our customers.

The mugs we’ve picked are good for you coffee drinkers who love to have lots of coffee but still want something that fits in your car, prefer to have a handle or strap for assistance when drinking from a large mug, or want something that insulates and keeps your coffee at the perfect sipping temperature all day long.

Here are a handful of large travel mugs at various price points.

Our Favorite Large Insulated Coffee Mugs

Reduce cold-1 extra large vacuum insulated big thermal mug with wide bottom, 3-in-1 lid & straw, ergonomic handle, 50 oz.

Unfortunately most over-sized travel mugs are gigantic but not made very well. This one is made well.

It’s insulation is top of the line and the lid incorporates a straw access point that works just fine for both cold and hot drinks alike.

Bubba Classic Foam Insulated Desk Mug, 52 oz

What is always loved about the Bubba Branded large mugs is the price. This mug is huge and the price is super low!

I wouldn’t expect this mug to be leak proof or be able to keep your drinks hot or cold all day long but most people don’t have any complaints over this, it’s the size they are after for a low low price.

HUGE 40 Oz. Stainless Steel Vacuum Insulated Tumbler By Pure, Double Wall Insulated

The top is not fancy, it’s a compression fit clear lid that can be lefton while drinking or removed. This tumbler can also accomodate a straw for cold beverages and it is made strong enough to hold up well over time.

We think it’s a great bargain and value for it’s price.

If those gigantic mugs aren’t what you are looking for then take a look at the following alternatives.

Here are Some More Oversized Mugs for you to Review

  Copco 24-Ounce Big Joe Thermal Travel Mug More Info   2 ThermoServ Foam Insulated Coffee Mugs 34 oz (1)Blue & (1)Black More Info   Thermos Stainless King 40-Ounce Beverage Bottle, Midnight Blue More Info   Zojirushi SJ-TE10XA 34-Ounce Tuff Sports, Stainless Steel More Info

You can find more alternatives on the following pages:

• 20 Ounce Travel Mugs
• 24 Ounce Travel Mugs
• 32-34 Ounce Travel Mugs

Product Descriptions

The following large mugs range in price from $9.99 to $35.00. Depending upon size and style, you get to decide your purchase price.

Aojia 34oz : This sleek, stainless steel mug is compact, designed to prevent dents and it doesn’t even weigh 1 pound. It will keep your coffee warm for up to 12 hours, and it also comes with 5 year warranty.

Bubba 34oz : If you prefer to have a handle, this thermal, stainless steel, BPA-free mug is an ideal choice for you. It’s on the smaller side of our large travel mugs, but it’s base makes it easy to slip into cup holders. One thing to note – it has a bottle opener under the handle.

Bubba 52oz : In between the two Bubba sizes we have available, this mug is large enough to keep you caffeine buzzed all day long. It’s also BPA-free, insulated, and comes with a bottle opener.

Bubba 70oz : This big guy has the name “Keg” for a reason. It’s perfect for you coffee drinkers that want a handle to gulp down your coffee, but definitely don’t plan to place it in a cup holder. It’s a nice choice if you have a very long day ahead, are in a cold environment, or just love lots, and lots, of coffee (we promise we won’t judge you). The best part? It comes with all the same perks as the other Bubba mugs.

Copco 24oz : This mug holds a good amount of coffee, but will fit into the majority of car cup holders. It has a handle for holding and a base that keeps it from falling over.

Stanley 16oz/40oz : A little different than the other large mugs, this one is actually a twist-off 40oz water bottle, with a 16oz coffee mug inside; it’s great if you are traveling or camping and need to save some space.

Thermos Vacuum Insulated 34oz : We chose Thermos because of it’s reputation to keep things hot – you know, as in excellent temperature retention. The mug comes with a strap handle, is insulated to keep your coffee hot for 24 hours, and is stainless steel to ensure durability. It’s lid also turns into a cup.

Thermos King 40oz : This Thermos mug does not have a strap handle, but it’s the more stylish version of the two. Keeping your hot drinks hot and your cold drinks cold, its compact frame makes taking it on the go pain free.

2 ThermoServ 34oz : With this purchase, you get a great deal – 2 mugs for 1. Although they may not be the trendiest mug we offer, each one is 34oz, BPA free and can be put in the dishwasher or microwave without any issues.

Zojirushi 34oz : This mug actually comes in 4 sizes, but they’re all stainless steel, well-insulated, and have a long-strap, so you can easily throw it over your shoulder and transport it with you wherever you go.

Additional Perks and Information

These large mugs are ideal for going on long road or camping trips, and can also serve as excellent containers for soups or any other liquid you want to maintain hot or cold for an extended period of time. And to those of you who just love lots of coffee, these are just your dream come true.

Alternatives

If these mugs are giving you a caffeine buzz just by looking at their size, the GGC Coffee product page has plenty of other options with mugs sizes just for you. Check out our various sizes and styles here .

The Top 8 Large Travel Mugs: Take More Coffee On Your Commute

Luckily there are lots of different thermal coffee mugs out there to choose from in the 20oz and larger category. And if you’re looking for extra large insulated coffee mugs there’s a number of those available too in various styles.

Most travel coffee mugs greater than 30oz in size come as a thermos-style insulated bottle. These are the kind of travel containers that you pour coffee out of into a cup or standard tumbler. In all cases below I’ve only featured the best products of their types below.

You wouldn’t want to take 64 ounces of coffee with you on the road only for your insulated bottle to leak or your coffee to go cold on you. These oversized travel mugs and insulated coffee bottles will perform best for you for years to come.

FYI – Only large insulated travel mugs are featured on this page. See the following page (page under construction) for a hand curated list of awesome oversized coffee mugs for those days when you’re not hitting the road.

Large 20-30oz Travel Mugs

See this page for more 20 oz travel mugs . Other sizes to come.

Extra Large 30oz+ Travel Mugs & Insulated Bottles

If you are shopping fora large container to store hot coffee in for a long time then take a look at our page on carafes with excellent heat retention . These aren’t made for travel but might serve your needs just as good or better.

Here’s A Basic Buyer’s Guide I Drew Up Just for You!

When buying a travel mug, here is a guide to help you identify the important features of a good travel mug:

Leak and Spill Protection – Find a travel mug that is leak and spill proof. Remember that you will use it for traveling. Expect that it will get knocked over and bumped at. You don’t want coffee spilling around your workstation, on your lap or on your seatmate’s shirt.

Easy-to-Open – Many buyers look for flip open or push-button lids so they can enjoy drinking from the travel mug with just one hand. Imagine if you would need to unscrew the lid, drink coffee and put the lid back. It’s such a hassle! So, opt for an easy-to-open travel mug.

Durability – Among plastic, glass and stainless travel mugs, the latter is always a runaway winner in terms of durability. Drops and accidents can happen. Choose a travel mug that is durable and sturdy, especially for every day commute.

Affordability – There are many affordable travel mugs. But if you can afford it, invest on a good travel mug that will last you for years. Choose something durable, automatic and large enough to provide at least 4 cups of coffee for you enjoyment.

Coffee Lid Mess Avoidance – Travel mugs can be a bit messy, leaving trails of coffee around the lid, with some even spilling on your favorite white shirt! Choose a travel mug with a nice lid that’s perfect for you. Some are just too wide, causing coffee to spill out from the corners of your mouth. Inspect the design of the lid. Some travel mugs have a beaker that’s a bit shallow, with a surrounding surface to collect coffee spillage. Others have a built-in sipper. But I can’t imagine using a straw for hot coffee.

Easy-to-Clean – Travel coffee mugs can be notorious when it comes to cleaning. Choose a model that is easy to hand wash. Having one that is dishwasher safe is also convenient. But since travel mugs are often brought to trips, you need a mug that is easy to wash manually.

Heat Retention – Who likes to drink cold coffee? Unless you intend to make an iced coffee, no one enjoys a hot coffee that has gone stale and cold. Choose a travel mug that has excellent heat retention. Keeping the coffee pleasantly hot for at least 3 hours is good enough. Some travel mugs can keep your coffee hot for 6 to 8 hours. It’s simply amazing!

Different Sizes of Travel Mugs

Travel mugs come in all sizes to suit the preferences of different types of people. Here is a rundown of the common travel mug sizes available:

• 8 oz Travel Mugs – This is good for single serve coffee. It also fits well with single serve machines like Keurig and Nespresso
• 12 oz Travel Mugs – This is the most common size of travel mugs. Portable enough to fit bags and car cup holders
• 16 oz Travel Mugs – Good for people who loves drinking more coffee or want to share it with friends. It can hold 3 to 4 cups of coffee
• 20 oz Travel Mugs – Considered as the largest in the group, it can yield up to 5 cups of coffee

These are the common sizes. But you also know that there are super large travel mugs that can hold up to 40 oz of coffee or more! I featured a few above but now I’d like to give you a bit of detail on a few select extra large options.

The Largest Travel Mugs & Beverage Bottles Available

Check out these brands that offer 40 oz travel mugs, perfect for big groups.

Thermos Stainless King 40 Ounce Beverage Bottle, Midnight Blue

Best features:

• Can hold up to 40 oz of coffee, equal to 8 to 10 cups
• Has Thermos signature vacuum insulation for optimum temperature retention
• Can keep coffee hot for 24 hours and cold drinks cool for 24 hours
• Made of high grade stainless steel
• Lid can be used as a serving cup

This travel mug is good enough for a large family on a trip or camping. It can keep your coffee hot for 24 hours. If you are planning for a long trip, make sure to bring this Thermos with you to enjoy your hot drinks anytime.

Isosteel VA-9553Q 34 fl. oz. Double Walled Vacuum Flask with Insulating Plastic Drinking Mug and Quickstop System for One Hand Use

• Can hold up to 34 oz of coffee, about 6 to 8 cups of coffee
• High grade stainless steel, durable material
• One hand usability
• Double wall vacuum flask
• Lid doubles as an insulated mug

The Isosteel offers large capacity to hold up to 8 cups of coffee, perfect for a group of coffee lovers. Its double wall technology can keep coffee hot for up to 6 hours.

How to care for your travel mugs?

There are two important ways to extend the life of your precious travel mugs.

• Follow manufacturer’s instruction especially in terms of cleaning.
• Always wash the travel mug after each use. Especially if you plan to reuse it on the same day, wash it well to avoid any build up.
• Always air dry your travel mug before keeping it.

A travel mug is a life-enhancing device. Yes, it’s a device.

Newer models of travel mugs offer so many amazing features like auto-seal, double wall insulation, spill-proof, non-slip and much more. And if you are traveling, whether for work or leisure, having your favorite drink just within your reach, it can spell a difference in your life… that’s coming from a heavy coffee drinker of course. 🙂

Brian Mounts

Head blogger, editor, and owner of "Top Off My Coffee", a website that has been educating readers about coffee brewing techniques and equipment since 2012.

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The Weirdest Roadside Attractions in the United States

There are many reasons solo travelers, couples, families, and adventures take road trips. Whether it’s to get away from it all, grow closer together, or see things you'd never see during everyday life, road trips bring you face-to-face with some of the most beautiful sights and weirdest things you’ll ever see. Here are 13 of the weirdest roadside attractions in the US. While road tripping, it’s often the undiscovered path that makes the most memorable moments on and off the road.

Mitchell Corn Palace, South Dakota

Any drive through the Midwest will bring you face-to-face with cornstalks taller than you can imagine. The Mitchell Corn Palace in South Dakota celebrates all things corn—starting with this prairie town in the middle of nowhere. This “palace” looks like something straight out of Russia, built in 1892 to showcase South Dakota’s bountiful harvests. Touring celebrities and one of the world’s largest bird feeders await road-trippers who visit.

One of the World’s Largest Rubber Band Balls, Florida

Many of us at some point have created a rubber band ball. Most of us lose interest after getting it to the size of a golf ball, but the Guinness World Records holder for World’s Largest Rubber Band Ball kept going, and kept going he did. Joel Waul’s rubber band ball measured in at 9,032 pounds in November 2008. More than 700,000 rubber bands were used coming in all shapes, sizes, and colors. Nicknamed “Megaton,” this 6’7” rubber band ball will leave you in awe during this pit stop—the ball can be found at Ripley's Believe It or Not! in Orlando .

One of the Largest Rubber Stamps, Ohio

If you’ve ever wielded a rubber stamp, you know how fun it can be to stamp things randomly in front of you. Now, imagine, standing up close and personal with a giant rubber stamp. In 1985, Standard Oil of Ohio commissioned the 28’ tall, 48’ long “free” rubber stamp from artist Claes Oldenburg. Located near downtown Cleveland's harbor, this sculpture is one of the largest rubber stamps in the world.

Hat 'n' Boots, Washington

In 1954, a gas station named Premium Tex south of Seattle hosted a 19’ tall, 44’ wide, bright cowboy hat. It covered the station’s offices and convenience store, while a pair of equally tall cowboy boots housed the men’s and women’s bathrooms. The goal of Premium Tex was simple—to create and open a western warehouse and destination. Alas, the gas station closed in 1988 before that happened and the local city council raised funds to preserve the giant cowboy boots and hat well into the future. The restoration of both was completed in 2010 and travelers now stand in awe at this road trip treasure in Oxbow Park, Seattle.

Jumbo Uncle Sam, Michigan

Uncle Sam is an iconic figure, coming to life in posters, literature, television, and more. There are several larger-than-life Uncle Sam statues across America, but the one on the Ohio/Michigan border might eclipse them all. This Uncle Sam figure originally came from Toledo, Ohio, and has been relocated along stretches of US 23 over the years to come to rest to its current location in Ottawa Lake. Whether you drive by this Uncle Sam or stop to stare up at its majesty, you’ll be left in patriotic awe after seeing it.

Ball of Twine, Kansas

There are wonders of the world, and then there are wonders of Kansas. If you’ve ever road tripped through Kansas, you may feel like there’s nothing much to do but get from point A to point B, but that’s not true! Ask anybody who lives in Kansas about the ball of twine, and they’ll talk your ear off. Started in 1953 by Frank Stoeber and his family, this ball of twine continued to grow over the years. Neighbors, visitors, and others around town helped contribute, and the tradition has continued throughout the years. At 17,400+ pounds and 40 feet in circumference, you won’t see twine the same after stopping to see this wonder of The Sunflower State.

The Groom Cross, Texas

Crosses are found across the US, and you’ll come across them in the oddest places. Drive along Texas long enough, and you’ll come across the Cross of Our Lord Jesus Christ or The Groom Cross as locals call it. At nineteen stories high, you’ll see this on a bright day from up to 20 miles away. Created from 2.5 million pounds of steel by an anonymous Texas millionaire, it’s free to the public to look up at from the road, pray at the base of, or drive past it. It lit up at night, so you’ll never miss this when road tripping.

One of the Largest Baskets, Ohio

Who doesn’t love baskets? Whether it’s of the picnic variety or simply storing things, everyone’s drawn to a cute wicker basket—and large ones, too! The largest one, to be exact. Situated in Newark, Ohio, you’ll find one of the world’s biggest baskets; the seven-story basket once served as Longaberger Basket Company headquarters. Many companies often create opulent, over the top icons to represent their brands. If you’re a fan of the oddities on the road, driving to one of the world’s largest baskets is a must.

Fiberglass Fish, Wisconsin

If you love fishing and road tripping, a stop at the National Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame is right up your alley. The fiberglass sculpture at this location is four stories tall and about as long as a Boeing 757. It’s a Muskie, a fearsome fish that’s both been a blessing and curse for freshwater fishers. Since the 1970s, this museum has kept track of freshwater fishing records across America. If you’re in Wisconsin and you love fishing, consider a stop to stare into the face of a sculpture so large, if it were alive, it could swallow a bus.

Tower of Filing Cabinets, Vermont

The biggest oddities on the road are the things that make us stop and say, “why?” The tower of filing cabinets on the road in Vermont is that sort of road trip oddity. Located off Route 7 on Shelburne Street, between Foster Street and Pine Street in Burlington, you can’t miss these towing, rusty filing cabinets. Created by local artist Bren Alvarez in 2002; the project is meant to highlight the years of paperwork that accumulated from a failed project to build a beltway in the area. This is most likely a weird sight for travelers in Vermont who have no clue what they’re looking at. That type of stop makes for the best road trip story.

One of the Largest Teapots, West Virginia

If you’ve traveled through West Virginia and stopped at a gas station or convenience store, you may have noticed a plethora of postcards with the “world’s largest teapot”. At approximately 14 feet high, this teapot was built as a keg for a root beer company. It changed hands several times over the decades, and it underwent a major restoration in the 1990s. Depending on what side of the river in the state's Northern Panhandle, you can see the teapot lit up at night like a beacon to travelers looking for a little levity on their road trip.

One of the Largest Rubik's Cubes, Tennessee

The world’s largest Rubik’s Cube stood at the entrance of the 1982 Knoxville World’s Fair. Weighing in at 1,200 pounds and standing more than 10 feet high, this Rubik’s Cube wasn’t something someone could solve on their own. Over the course of the World’s Fair, the colors and patterns on the cube changed throughout the day. Once the fair was over, the city had no clue what to do with the Rubik’s Cube, and it fell into disrepair. Once exposed by local journalists, the city worked to repair and restore the cube to its former glory and was moved indoors for the 2007 Knoxville World’s Fair. This is a sight to see for travelers, even if it once again fell into bad shape with no word on whether it’ll be repaired again.

Gnome Chomsky, New York

Garden gnomes either make you smile or cringe. No matter how creative, tacky, or scary they may be, you’ve no doubt come across them on your travels. But you may not have come across this 2006 project called “Gnome on the Grange.” Celebrating the local farming community in New York at Kelder’s Farm, the giant gnome can be seen from the road—standing at 15’ tall, it’s hard to miss! At one time, Gnome on the Range held the title of Guinness World Record for Tallest Concrete Gnome.

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All the Best Fourth of July Sales (So Far)

Fourth of July sales have started to trickle in, and I’m here to help you navigate what’s worth it. As per usual, plenty of mattresses are already on sale, and our sleep writer has begun to round up all the best Fourth of July mattress sales here . If you’re not in the market for a mattress, the best deals I’ve seen so far are at DTC home-furniture brands like  Article , Burrow , and Crate & Barrel . REI has also already launched its Fourth of July sale, so now’s a good time to pick up some new workout shorts or spring for a tent.

Below, I’ve rounded up the best early Fourth of July deals (so far) organized alphabetically by retailer. Where possible, I’ve noted when the sales are slated to end. I’ll be updating this post regularly until the long holiday weekend, so check back often so you don’t miss a single sale. And be sure to sign up for our email newsletter for all the best sales straight to your inbox.

Article’s July 4 sale is nearly identical to its Memorial Day sale , which had a lot of just fine deals but a few very good ones. The brand makes our best-in-class  sofa ,  bed frame , and  dining chair , and I found all those items (or very similar versions) for up to 30 percent off.

Through July 14, Burrow is offering up to 75 percent off select items. Most discounts hover around 15 to 25 percent off, which is a pretty good discount when you’re buying a couch. I suggest the Nomad sofa, if you’re in the market, as we named it the “designiest” flat-pack sofa . It’s up to 25 percent off, depending on which fabric you select. (The spill-proof gray pictured below is the cheapest.)

The Citizenry

The Citizenry is discounting its bedding, bath, pillows, and rugs by 20 percent, and all furniture is 10 percent off. For hot sleepers, Strategist associate editor Jenna Milliner-Waddell says the stonewashed French flax  linen sheets  are the coolest sheets  she’s ever slept on. And I spotted a really good deal on the Alondra throw pillow , which is 60 percent off as part of the brand’s archive sale.

Crate & Barrel

For its annual Fourth of July warehouse sale, Crate & Barrel is offering up to 60 percent off nearly 2,000 items through July 8. I found lots of fun dinnerware — like shatterproof wine glasses and a Le Creuset Dutch oven — as well as throw pillows for the patio and airy summer bedding.

Crate & Kids

And if you’re on the hunt for kids’ stuff, the summer warehouse sale at Crate & Kids is very good, too, particularly in the bedding section.

You know the drill by now: Holidays are the best time to find a mattress on sale. Our sleep writer Amelia Jerden has put together an in-depth guide on the  best Fourth of July mattress deals , and I’ve pulled a few of my favorites here.

REI’s Fourth of July sale is live. As per usual, there’s plenty of gear from REI’s in-house brand on sale. I also spotted our fitness writer Jeremy Rellosa ’s favorite headlamp and a great hiking backpack for beginners . The discounts won’t get any better, and the sale ends at midnight on July 4.

The Strategist is designed to surface the most useful, expert recommendations for things to buy across the vast e-commerce landscape. Some of our latest conquests include the best acne treatments , rolling luggage , pillows for side sleepers , natural anxiety remedies , and bath towels . We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change.

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6 Smallest Camper Trailers With Slide-Outs That Offer Extra Living Space

• Last Updated: June 15, 2024
• 12 minutes read

A power-retractable slide-out section is a great way to maximize the interior living space of any size RV. to create more interior living space

A slide out, slide or pop out is a cut-out portion of your RV that extends and retracts its side wall to create more interior living space.

They are especially prized in smaller campers that are compact and streamlined on the road when you want them to be, yet give you enough elbow room to stretch out when you set up camp.

With all their popularity, it’s no wonder why so many people put a slide-out section as a top priority when shopping for a new travel trailer.

If this sounds like you, then you might be wondering what are some of the best small travel trailers with a slide-out section?

Two of the top contenders in this crowded class are the Forest River – Rockwood Mini Lite 2109S and the Coachmen – Viking Ultra-Lite 17BHS.

Though there are some really nice models out there that can fit specific travel styles.

If you need more room for your family, but you don’t want to make a major investment in a giant travel trailer, we’ve got you covered.

We waded through the broad field of options to find some of the best smallest trailers with a slide-out on the market today. 

Along the way, we also took into account things like how the weight might pair with a certain type of tow vehicle, as well as the size of the family it can accommodate, and what the slide-out section had to offer.

IN THIS ARTICLE

6 Great Small Travel Trailers With A Slide-Out

The following models have a lot to offer when it comes to being streamlined going down the road, but still offering plenty of elbow room and sleeping space when you expand the slide-out section.

We also tried to keep our eyes out for models that appealed to niche interests like boondocking off the grid, or a small travel trailer that’s designed to handle cooler weather like you might find when camping in the mountains. 

Here are the 8 awesome small camper trailers with slide outs that give you extra living, storage and relaxing space in your RV.

• K-Z Sportsmen Classic 181BH Ultra Lightweight Travel Trailer
• Forest River Rockwood Mini Lite 2109S Travel Trailer
• Coachmen Viking Ultra-Lite 17BHS
• Dutchmen Coleman Rubicon 1608RB Travel Trailer
• Jayco Jay Flight SLX 183RB Travel Trailer
• Lance 1475 Travel Trailer

1. K-Z Sportsmen Classic 181BH Ultra Lightweight Travel Trailer

• Length of 20 ft.
• Dry Weight of 3,020 lbs.
• Payload Capacity of 480 lbs.
• GVWR of 3,500 lbs.
• Hitch Weight of 370 lbs.
• Sleeps up to 6 people
• 13,500 BTU air conditioner
• 20,000 BTU heater

For a small travel trailer with a slide-out section that measures in at just under 21-feet long the K-Z – Sportsmen Classic 181BH offers a lot of sleeping space.

The power slide-out section houses a relatively spacious dinette area. If you need some extra sleeping room for a third child, or you have an overnight guest, it also converts into a bed. 

If you have multiple children and everyone needs to feel like they have their own space, then you need to move this new model up your list.

Especially when you consider that it’s light enough to be towed by a light-duty pickup truck or even a robust mid-size SUV with a towing package. 

The floor space saved by the slide-out section allows for a pair of rear bunks. This lets each child have their own bed as well as a little storage space for their own things.

It’s a great concept for teenagers and school-age children. The master bed in the front also gives you a dedicated sleeping and storage space without having your kid’s things intermingle with your own. 

2. Forest River Rockwood Mini Lite 2109S Travel Trailer

• Length of 22 ft.
• Dry Weight of 4,171 lbs.
• Payload Capacity of 1,521 lbs.
• GVWR of 5,692 lbs.
• Hitch Weight of 412 lbs.
• Total Fresh Water Tank Capacity of 52.0 gallons
• Total Gray Water Tank Capacity of 30.0 gallons
• Total Black Water Tank Capacity of 30.0 gallons
• Sleeps up to 4 people
• 35,000 BTU heater

If you train your eye to look for them driving down the road, you will see that the Forest River – Rockwood Mini Lite 2109S is one of the most popular small camper trailers with a slide-out section.

It’s light enough to be towed by a full-size SUV or a light-duty pickup truck. The power slide-out section houses a large, comfortable sofa with a dinette table in front of it. 

The floorplan and open living space also translates into impressive amount of storage space both inside and out.

The decked-out kitchen has a lot of thoughtful cupboards and a wardrobe panty area.

There’s also an impressive pass-through storage area in the front that’s accessible via a pair of hatches. 

3. Coachmen Viking Ultra-Lite 17BHS

• Dry Weight of 3,437 lbs.
• Payload Capacity of 988 lbs.
• GVWR of 4,425 lbs.
• Hitch Weight of 425 lbs.
• Total Fresh Water Tank Capacity of 27.0 gallons
• Total Gray Water Tank Capacity of 25.0 gallons
• Total Black Water Tank Capacity of 25.0 gallons

The Coachmen – Viking Ultra-Lite 17BHS is another great small travel trailer that is designed to accommodate a family with multiple children.

The power slide-out section houses a rather spacious dinette. It can also be converted into a functional sleeping space.

If you have a toddler who needs a confined sleeping area, it can easily be turned into an improvised crib or day bed. 

If your kids love bunk beds and clamor to see who gets the top bunk, then they are going to love spacious rear bunks.

They are also conveniently positioned next to the bathroom that has a shower with a basin that is deep enough to bathe a small child. 

You get all this in a small travel trailer that can be towed by a light-duty pickup truck or full-size SUV.

When fully loaded Coachmen – Viking Ultra-Lite 17BHS has a gross vehicle weight rating of just under 4,500-pounds.

This means there are even a few robust mid-size SUVs that can safely tow it when totally loaded. 

4. Dutchmen Coleman Rubicon 1608RB Travel Trailer

• Dry Weight of 3,882 lbs.
• Payload Capacity of 952 lbs.
• GVWR of 4,834 lbs.
• Hitch Weight of 525 lbs.
• Total Fresh Water Tank Capacity of 46.0 gallons
• Total Gray Water Tank Capacity of 28.0 gallons
• Total Black Water Tank Capacity of 28.0 gallons
• Sleeps up to 3 to 4 people

With a power-retractable slide out section with a love-seat style couch, and a total length of just over 20-feet the Dutchmen – Coleman Rubicon 1608RB can sleep up to 4 people.

Though I think you will find in real life that it is meant to be a small travel trailer that meets the needs of a traveling couple or two parents and an only child. 

The slide-out section’s couch is positioned in front of it is a long dining or coffee table.

It’s great for times when you and your significant other want to cuddle up and watch a movie, or you just like to eat while watching TV. 

With a gross vehicle weight rating of nearly 5,000-pounds and a total length of just over 20-feet, the Dutchmen – Coleman Rubicon 1608RB pushes the limit of what all but the most robust of mid-size SUVs can handle.

Though if you already have a full-size SUV a light-duty pickup truck or larger, you will have no problem towing this lightweight and spacious camper anywhere you want to take it. 

5. Jayco Jay Flight SLX 183RB Travel Trailer

• Length of 21 ft.
• Dry Weight of 3,270 lbs.
• Payload Capacity of 880 lbs.
• GVWR of 4,150 lbs.
• Hitch Weight of 290 lbs.
• Total Fresh Water Tank Capacity of 20.0 gallons
• Total Gray Water Tank Capacity of 19.9 gallons
• Total Black Water Tank Capacity of 19.9 gallons
• 8,000 BTU air conditioner
• 18,000 BTU furnace

The Jayco – Jay Flight SLX 183RB is a small travel trailer with a slide-out section that is geared more toward a traveling couple or a small family with a single child.

The slide-out section holds a relatively spacious dinette, which can be easily repurposed into a day bed or a crib space if needed. 

One of the great things about the Jayco – Jay Flight SLX 183RB is the weight and towing statistics.

With a gross vehicle weight rating of under 4,200-pounds, it is within the range of robust mid-size SUVs with a towing package.

This makes it a great option for a family that needs a compact travel trailer, but doesn’t want to invest in a larger tow vehicle just to safely pull it. 

6. Lance 1475 Travel Trailer

• Length of 19’ 8” ft.
• Dry Weight of 2,600 lbs.
• Payload Capacity of 1,100 lbs.
• GVWR of 3,700 lbs.
• Hitch Weight of 250 lbs.
• Total Fresh Water Tank Capacity of 26.0 gallons
• Total Gray Water Tank Capacity of 26.0 gallons
• Total Black Water Tank Capacity of 26.0 gallons
• Sleeps 2 to 3 people

The Lance 1475 is a compact travel trailer with a small slide-out section that houses a small seating area.

This departs from many of the competitors who install a large, static dinette section.

This serves to give you more floor space to move around in what might otherwise be a tightly spaced travel trailer. 

The slide-out section also opens up enough floor space to accommodate a true dry bath, where as a lot of similar small travel trailers this size only have a wet bath.

It’s supported by 26 gallon fresh water and a pair of 26 gallon wastewater tanks.

This gives you just enough water capacity to camp off the grid for a day or two, without driving the weight up.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does a slide-out section add a lot of weight to a travel trailer.

The additional material and the power-retractable components of a slide-out section do technically increase the dry weight of a travel trailer.

Though this was more of an issue in the past, where a slide-out section usually made a travel trailer so heavy that you needed a full-size pickup truck to tow it confidently.

Recent improvements in RV materials and manufacturing technology have helped reduce the overall weight of a slide-out section to help keep many models within range of what a robust mid-size or full-size SUV can tow. 

Are Slide-Out Sections Difficult To Maintain On A Travel Trailer?

By their nature, power-retractable slide-out sections on a small travel trailer do need more maintenance than a camper that doesn’t have them.

All the moving parts need periodic lubrication, and the seals or gaskets can start to develop leaks over the years if the travel trailer isn’t properly stored during the winter. 

There are a lot of great small travel trailers with slide-out sections on the market today.

Modern materials and engineering have even helped keep some light enough to be towed by a robust mid-size SUV with a towing package installed.

The one that’s best for you might depend on the size of your family and how you like to camp. 

If it’s just you and your significant other or you have an only child, then the Dutchmen – Coleman Rubicon 1608RB might be the best small travel trailer with a slide-out to meet your needs.

The dinette section can be used as a daybed for a toddler and will still be large enough to grow with your child over the years. 

If you have a larger family and you need to sleep multiple children or teenagers at the same time then the Forest River – Rockwood Mini Lite 2109S might be the best small travel trailer with a slide-out for your family.

The kids will love the bunk beds, not to mention the fact that everyone gets to have their own sleeping and storage space.

About Author / Aaron Richardson

Aaron Richardson is an expert RVer and the co-founder of RVing Know How. Aaron, along with his wife Evelyn, has been living and traveling in their Keystone Fuzion RV since 2017. Their adventures span across the country and beyond, including memorable RVing experiences in Mexico. Aaron's passion for the outdoors and RVing shines through in his writings, where he shares a blend of travel stories, practical tips, and insights to enhance the RV lifestyle.

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More From Forbes

Cappadocia: fantasy scenery and a new spa in 2,000-year-old caves.

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Hot air balloons flying over fairy chimneys in Cappadocia, Turkiye

They call them fairy chimneys, these towering conical rock formations that populate the landscape of Turkiye’s Cappadocia, a land that seems part moonscape, part fairy tale. Other massive formations of hardened lava surrounding have been carved by the elements and then by early settlers, creating a honeycomb of caves within them. They’re now incorporated into hotels like Argos in Cappadocia which with its just opened spa located partly in those caves is one of the most atmospheric places to stay in the world.

Yoga mats in the cave.

The caves that comprise this spa, which opened in April, combine with five mansions dating from the 1800’s to create the 17,244 square foot wellness center. Treatments range from Turkish classics such as a deep cleansing in a hammam, scrubs with white coconut and mint or lavender seed and sea salt and massages with volcanic basalt rocks as hot stones. Facial treatments with products developed by the Swiss company Valmont blend local techniques with modern technology for cellular renewal and increased skin brightness.

The setting of Argos in Cappadocia on the hillside.

Just being here on the hill in Uçhisar village, though, near Tiraz Castle, one of three castles in the area, on the site of a major monastery complex overlooking Pigeon Valley and Mount Erciyes has a calming effect. The hotel overall consists of nine mansions cascading down this hill along with the caves, tunnels and former monastic sites. The 71 rooms, including 20 new ones that opened in May, contain some of those historic features plus interior pools and Jacuzzis incorporated into the buildings.

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A suite at Argos in Cappadocia.

When you stay here, the one essential activity is ballooning at dawn, gliding over the fairy chimneys and valleys in a hot air balloon. In the other direction, there are reasons to go below ground to walk through the underground settlements of Kaymakli and Derinkuyu , the most famous of the approximately 200 underground cities thought to date back to the seventh and eighth centuries BCE. Thousands of area residents plus their food supplies and livestock sheltered here from the threat of foreign invasion and they conducted very full lives with schools, wine cellars, communal kitchens and houses on multi levels. A sophisticated network of tunnels connected the cities which were opened to visitors in the 1960’s and declared UNESCO World Heritage sites in the 1980’s.

The pool setting.

Other ways to explore the region are by biking through the valleys, including the three mile Bağlıdere-Love Valley route extending past Uçhisar. Checking out winemaking in Turkiye with a walk through the vineyards is another option. The most evocative way, though, is on horseback through the valleys; the area is known for its majestic horses.

The Seki Restaurant

The cuisine is another highlight: Turkish cuisine, and its regional version here, are known for their variety, freshness and spices and the Argos staff can organize local culinary tours to teach fundamentals about the region’s distinctive ingredients and arrange cooking classes with home cooks in nearby Ayvah village. The hotel’s culinary team also conducts cooking classes to teach the essentials of Anatolian cuisine and shows guests how to harvest ingredients from the hotel’s organic garden between its most active months, June through October. Those who want a more passive experience, though, can instead take the picnic provided, spread it out in the garden and just take in the view of unique ancient formations and hot air balloons drifting by.

A setting for a hillside meal.

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A Walk Among Giants: A Guide To The Roosevelt Grove Of Ancient Cedars

Post Summary: A straightforward guide to visiting the Roosevelt Grove of Ancient Cedars.

Did you know that tucked into the far reaches of the Idaho Panhandle is an ancient old-growth cedar forest with trees that date back 800- 2000 years? These primordial giants are some of the oldest and tallest cedar trees in the Pacific Northwest, reaching up to 150 feet tall and spanning 12 feet wide.

On a recent visit to Priest Lake , we knew we had to make the drive and see these staggering trees for ourselves. Not only for the splendor of the cedars but also because there’s an amazing waterfall, Granite Falls!

Because of its difficult-to-reach status, Roosevelt Grove is a wonderful day trip for anyone looking for peaceful solitude with nature. While it’s a drive to get there, it’s an easy hike that means families of all ages can enjoy the sights.

In our guide to the Roosevelt Grove of Ancient Cedars, we’ll cover how to get there, what to do in the park, and helpful tips for your time there.

*This post may contain affiliate links, which means we might earn a small commission if you purchase from them. This is at no extra cost to you! We only recommend products and services we truly think are helpful.

A GUIDE TO VISITING THE ROOSEVELT GROVE OF ANCIENT CEDARS

A Brief History of the Roosevelt Grove

On April 15, 1943, The Roosevelt Grove was officially designated as a Scenic Area, a crucial step in preserving its unique ecological and historical value. This designation came after a devastating fire in 1926 ravaged the area, destroying nearly 75 percent of the original grove. This catastrophe left behind only two small remnants of the once vast forest. The Lower Grove now covers approximately 2 acres, and the Upper Grove spans about 20 acres.

It is estimated that the trees are around 800 years old, with a few ancient ones that are over 2000 years old!

The grove is named after Theodore Roosevelt as a tribute to his enduring legacy in environmental conservation.

Where is the Roosevelt Grove of Ancient Cedars?

The Roosevelt Grove of Ancient Cedars is in the Panhandle National Forest. It’s located northwest of Priest Lake, Idaho, and 14 miles from Nordman, Idaho. While the cedar grove is in eastern Washington, it is most easily accessed through Idaho.

Driving Distances: Coeur D’Alene, ID 94 miles (2.12 hour drive) Sandpoint, ID: 72. 2 miles (1.5 hour drive) Priest Lake State Park: 44 miles (1.05 hour drive) Newport, WA: 55.8 miles (1.14 hour drive) Spokane, WA: 103 miles (2.19 hour drive)

How to get to the Roosevelt Grove of Ancient Cedars

We suggest using these written directions rather than relying on GPS. We used GPS to get us in the general direction, but once you’re on Road 302, GPS is unreliable and does not take you to the parking lot. Instead, rely on signs on the road pointing you to Roosevelt Grove.

Here are driving directions to the Roosevelt Grove of Ancient Cedars:

• From Priest Rive, go north on Highway 57.
• At the Dickensheet Junction at the southern end of Priest Lake, bear left to stay on Highway 57 to Nordman.
• At Nordman, continue north on Road 302 (an extension of Highway 57) for 14 miles.
• A sign on the left will direct you to the parking area for Granite Falls & Roosevelt Grove of Ancient Cedars.

The parking area is decently sized and can hold roughly 12 cars. The parking area has one vault toilet.

The Best Time to Visit the Roosevelt Grove of Ancient Cedars

Generally, the best times to visit will be from late spring to early fall, roughly June to October. Northern Idaho has a prolonged winter and higher elevation; therefore, the area could be inaccessible, snowy, wet, and muddy with washed-out roads. It’s hard to know what each year will be like because some years it will be clear and open in May, and other years it will be snowy and hard to access.

I always advise checking out road conditions before you go. You can use this site to put in your route , and it will tell you about current conditions. It also includes photos of the road to give you a better idea. The last nine miles are a gravel road.

We visited in early June, and the roads were clear, and all the snow had vanished. The road had some decent-sized potholes, but our small sedan took it like a champ! Generally, a high-clearance vehicle is always best when traveling the more remote areas of Idaho.

Because we visited in June, the waterfall was at full blast. Late June is a great time to visit because there will be fewer people, and the waterfall will be at full blast from the snowmelt.

What to do at the Roosevelt Grove of Ancient Cedars

When visiting the Roosevelt Grove, the main activity is exploring the Lower Grove of cedars and the trail (Granite Falls Trail #301) that takes you to Granite Falls and the Upper Grove of cedars. The area is also fantastic for nature photography. I’ll detail the three activities and the best order to explore them.

Walk to Granite Falls Waterfall

From the parking lot, you’ll walk toward the entrance road to the parking lot, where you’ll see the trailhead up a slight hill to the right. You’ll want to start by taking the short 365-foot path on the left that follows along the creek. This trail will take you to the viewing of the Lower Falls.

It’s an amazing waterfall, and if you’re viewing it in springtime, you will feel a mist from the rocky viewing point. The waterfall juts over a diagonal rock wall, making it a unique sideways waterfall.

READ NEXT: Top 10 Things To Do At Priest Lake, Idaho

Hike Granite Roosevelt Trail and Explore Upper Grove of Cedars

Walking back from the lower view of the Granite Falls waterfall, you’ll come to the trailhead for trail #301, named the Granite Roosevelt Trail . The lollipop hike takes you to the Upper Grove of cedars and the Upper Falls viewing platform. At the first divide in the trail, go left so you can see the views of the waterfall first. After a few switchbacks, you’ll get to a wooden viewing plank that juts out over the cliff wall. It felt a little sketchy to walk out on, but it seems to be holding up just fine. It has fantastic views of the waterfall.

The hike is lovely and mostly maintained, but a few fallen trees block the trail and require scrambling over. I’m pretty sure my son thought it was a fantastic addition to the trail! Depending on when you’re visiting, you can look out for huckleberries, mushrooms, and frogs.

From the upper view, continue until you reach the upper junction of the trail. If you take a left, you’ll hike half a mile to the Upper Grove. The Upper Grove is an undeveloped area, and you are permitted to leave the trail to explore the trees.

When you’re done at the Upper Grove, you’ll double back and return to the loop trail, taking the other side of the loop to return.

The trail is considered easy, with a small elevation gain of 450 feet. If you hike to the Upper Grove, the entire loop is roughly 2.5 miles. If you move at a leisurely pace and stop for photos, I’d estimate the entire loop to take an hour and a half.

Explore Lower Grove of Cedars

Back at the trailhead, near the parking lot and vault toilet, is the Lower Grove of Cedars. It’s a small grove that’s enchanting and idyllic to walk around in. Our son loved hiding in the hollows of these gigantic trees. There are also picnic benches scattered around, so you can bring a lunch and enjoy the surroundings before you head back.

Camping and Lodging Near Roosevelt Grove of Ancient Cedars

There are so many fun places to camp in Priest Lake that it’s impossible to list them all! We always camp at Priest Lake State Park at the Indian Creek Unit since it’s perfect for our vintage camper , but there are numerous other campsites that are quieter and closer to Roosevelt Grove.

Here’s a good resource to learn about the campgrounds on Priest Lake . The site also has a map of its locations so you can see if it is closer to Roosevelt Grove.

If you want to stay in a hotel, check out Elkins Resort and The Hills . Both are roughly 30-40 minutes from the Roosevelt Grove. It’s a nice place to stop for lunch or dinner, even if you don’t stay there.

Lastly, there are gorgeous rental homes all over the area. You can go cheap and simple or all-out lakefront luxury like this swoon-worthy cabin. If you want to be near the grove, look for rentals near Nordman, Idaho .

Tips For Visiting The Roosevelt Grove

Here are a few extra things before you head out on your day trip!

• The mosquitos can be vicious depending on the time of the year. Wear bug spray!
• There is one vault toilet at the trailhead.
• Bring water, snacks, and food, and have a picnic at the Grove. There are a few picnic benches in the Lower Grove.
• Don’t litter, and pack out ALL your trash. Leave the grove exactly as you found it.

We hope this article helps you to safely enjoy the Roosevelt Grove of Ancient Cedars. Happy adventures!

PIN IT FOR LATER

Hi, we’re Christina and Brad, Idaho based writers and photographers who live to explore. We did a short stint of traveling full time with our two year old and discovered we're much happier as part time nomads. What does that mean? We travel a lot! And then we go home. We love helping fellow parents and everyday adventurers discover new places and experiences.

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Pair of giant pandas on their way from China to San Diego Zoo under conservation partnership

SAN DIEGO (AP) — A pair of giant pandas are on their way from China to the U.S., where they will be cared for at the San Diego Zoo as part of  an ongoing conservation partnership  between the two nations, officials said Wednesday.

Officials with the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance were on hand in China for a farewell ceremony commemorating the departure of the giant pandas, Yun Chuan and Xin Bao.

The celebration included cultural performances, video salutations from Chinese and American students and a gift exchange among conservation partners, the zoo said in a statement. After the ceremony, the giant pandas began their trip to Southern California.

“This farewell celebrates their journey and underscores a collaboration between the United States and China on vital conservation efforts,” Paul Baribault, the wildlife alliance president, said in a statement. “Our long-standing partnership with China Wildlife Conservation Association has been instrumental in advancing giant panda conservation, and we look forward to continuing our work together to ensure the survival and thriving of this iconic species.”

It could be several weeks before the giant pandas will be viewable to the public in San Diego, officials said.

Yun Chuan, a mild-mannered male who’s nearly 5 years old, has connections to California, the wildlife alliance said previously. His mother, Zhen Zhen, was born at the San Diego Zoo in 2007 to parents Bai Yun and Gao Gao.

Xin Bao is a nearly 4-year-old female described as “a gentle and witty introvert with a sweet round face and big ears.”

The San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance has a nearly 30-year partnership with leading conservation institutions in China focused on protecting and recovering giant pandas and the bamboo forests on which they depend.

Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.

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Elden Ring How to Reach West of Mountaintops of the Giants

March 11, 2022 by PowerPyx Leave a Comment

In Elden Ring there’s a secret region in the west of Mountaintops of the Giants that’s hard to reach. It’s also known as North Mountaintops / North-West Mountaintops / Secret Haligtree / Consecrated Snowfield. You can see it fogged on the map but there’s no direct way to walk there. Getting there requires some secret steps that the game doesn’t tell you about. You must find the two parts of the Haligtree Secret Medallion and use them at the Grand Lift of Rold (elevator leading to the Mountaintops).

This is the west area of the Mountaintops:

Video Guide

Step 1: Get Haligtree Secret Medallion (Right)

Go to Lirunia of the Lakes: Village of the Albinauries . It’s in the south-west corner of Liurnia region. Go up the path from the site of grace, then go straight past the fire-throwing enemy. There’s a barrel, which is really an NPC disguised as a barrel. Walk around the barrel from all sides until the NPC reveals himself. Then talk to him repeatedly until he gives you  Haligtree Secret Medallion (Right) .

Step 2: Get Haligtree Secret Medallion (Left)

This requires you to first reach the central part of Mountaintops of the Giants. To get there, you must defeat the main boss Morgott, the Omen . He is one of the shardbearers and is mandatory to advance the story. You find him in Leyndell, the Royal Capital, in the upstairs section in the south of the city. See the boss video below if you haven’t defeated him yet:

He will drop you a medallion piece. With this medallion piece, go to Avenue Balcony site of grace in Royal Capital, then up the stairs and head left (east), follow the path straight ahead until you reach a big gate, open it, then follow the path to use a big wooden elevator. This leads you out of the Royal Capital. Once you’re on top of the city walls to the south-east of the Capital, enter another big elevator in the castle tower straight ahead. This leads to the Forbidden Lands . From there follow the linear path until you get to Grand Lift of Rold and use the lift (requires Medallion dropped by Morgott). Remember this lift, we must go back there later and finding the last Medallion Part. The lift will take you to the central Mountaintops. Head north and drop down the cliffs to reach Castle Sol . See the image below showing the entire path (marked red).

Defeat Commander Niall at the end of Castle Sol, then follow the path behind him to find the  Haligtree Secret Medallion (Left) .

Step 3: Use the two Medallion Parts at Grand Lift of Rold

That’s all there is to get to the Mountaintops of the Giants West.

Note: to reach the northernmost part above the Mountaintops, called Elphael, see How to Reach Elphael (another secret area outside of Mountaintops).

For more guides check out the full  Elden Ring Wiki & Strategy Guide .

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Elden Ring Shadow of the Erdtree: All areas & how to reach them

Written by 

Harry Boulton

Published 

20th Jun 2024 23:00

While there are only five Map Fragments to find in Elden Ring Shadow of the Erdtree, there are countless more areas to explore - some of which remain rather hidden.

All areas on the map

Gravesite Plain

Scadu altus.

• Hinterland/Scadutree Base/Scaduview

Ancient Ruins of Rauh

Abyssal woods, jagged peak, charo's hidden grave, stone coffin fissure, key points of interest.

• Church of Consolation
• Church of Benediction
• Western Nameless Mausoleum
• Dragon's Pit
• Belurat, Tower Settlement
• Castle Ensis

How to reach

Gravesite Plain is the first area of Shadow of the Erdtree, so all you need to do to reach it is enter the DLC through Mohg's boss arena.

• Moorth Ruins
• Ruined Forge of Starfall Past
• Bonny Village
• Darklight Catacombs
• Cathedral of Manus Metyr
• Rabbath's Rise
• Ruins of Unte
• Shadow Keep
• Shadow Keep Church District
• Church of the Crusade
• Taylew's Ruined Forge
• Fort of Reprimand

You can reach Scadu Altus in two different ways. The first and most likely is by defeating Rellana, Twin Moon Knight - the boss of Castle Ensis . The path after her boss arena leads to Highroad Cross and the southwest side of Scadu Altus.

Alternatively, you can head into it via the Fort of Reprimand , which can be accessed by heading east of the Pillar Path Cross Site of Grace, where you meet Thiollier for the first time. Continue through the poison swamp until you reach a sealed spiritspring. Unseal it, then use it to jump up into the Fort of Reprimand, which will then lead you to the southern edge of Scadu Altus when completed.

Reaching Bonny Village & Cathedral of Manus Metyr

To get to the eastern side of Scadu Altus you'll need to drop down a hole to the south of Moorth Ruins . Don't be fooled by the larger hole as there's no way to drop down there - instead, you'll want to head to a smaller hole just north and drop safely down there.

From there, continue through the underground section until you come up again into Bonny Village. You'll then be able to either head south towards Bonny Gaol, or round the road north up to the Cathedral, Rabbath's Rise, or the Church District of the Shadow Keep.

Hinterland, Scadutree Base & Scaduview

• Albinauric's Shack (Scaduview)
• Scadutree Chalice (Scaduview)
• Scadutree Base
• Shaman Village (Hinterland)
• Finger Ruins of Dheo (Hinterland)

How to get to Scadutree Base

To make your way down to Scadutree Base you'll first want to enter the Shadow Keep Church District, which you can do so via the Cathedral route in Scadu Altus. From there you'll need to have drained the water, which can be done by taking the route shown below.

This involves some rather tricky jumps - including one onto the Church's exterior supports just beyond the first Fire Knight.

From there, drop down the hole in the roof down into the Church, move past (or defeat) the Fire Knight inside, moving towards the circular room. Then, take the first left out onto the walkway and follow the path until you reach a lever that drains the water.

Then you'll want to head back to the circular room and jump down the hole where the large Marika statue sits. Once you land on the lower level, head out of that room and immediately turn left, and you should reach another room with a closed door at the end.

Open this door and use the elevator in order to reach the Tree-Worship Passage, and eventually Scadutree Base.

How to get to Hinterland & Scaduview

Both Hinterland and Scaduview start from the same place - Shadow Keep Back Gate - but each requires a different action in order to access the rest of their corresponding area, and you'll need to figure out how to get there first.

You need to head back to the Shadow Keep Church District and take the same route that you did to turn the water off, but instead of taking the first left, you'll want to head down the second left, taking you to an elevator. There is another Fire Knight roaming here, so be careful.

This lift will take you up to the Specimen Storehouse, Back Section. Progress through this area until you find a hole in the wall, which will lead you up to the Loft section of the Specimen Storehouse.

In this area, you'll find rafters which you can walk across. Use one of the ladders to climb up to the top level of the rafters, then drop down onto the large cog to the northwest, use that to jump over to the lower rafters, and finally drop down onto the platform with the door leading outside.

Once on this platform, take the lift and you'll end up at the Shadow Keep Back Gate.

To get to Scaduview you'll need to progress north onto the field and defeat Commander Gaius. Once you've done that, head to the northwest of his boss arena and continue up towards the Albinauric Shack and Scadutree Chalice.

Reaching the Hinterland is a bit more complicated, as you'll need to use the 'O Mother' gesture in front of the Statue of Marika next to the Back Gate Site of Grace in order to access the area in the first place.

This gesture can be found just to the north of the Bonny Village Site of Grace as an item dropped in the middle of some grass, so definitely head back there if you haven't picked it up already.

Once you've got the gesture, just use it in front of the statue and the Statue of Marika will move to the side, revealing a new path and the way into the Hinterland. This area is an essential part of Ymir's quest and reveals some key parts of the game's lore, so it's definitely worth visiting!

• Scorpion River Catacombs
• Church of the Bud
• Temple Town Ruins

Head northwest from the Specimen Storehouse, First Floor Site of Grace and take the elevator down. Progress through the area until you reach a big iron door - there should then be a small wooden door to the right which you'll be able to open.

Make your way down the bridge and take the lift after the Fire Knight at the end, which takes you up to the Ancient Ruins of Rauh.

• Abandoned Church
• Midra's Manse

The Abyssal Woods is probably the toughest area to reach in Shadow of the Erdtree, but it all starts within the Shadow Keep.

Progress through the Shadow Keep until you reach the Specimen Storehouse, First Floor Site of Grace, then head back down the lift that took you there, onto the walkway with the burning boats. Head to the east and you should find a gap in the wall with a ladder.

Head down the ladder, then head west and into an arch through pouring water. Head down another ladder and that should take you to a room with a painting in it. To the right of the painting is an illusory wall, so roll through or hit the wall to reveal it.

After that should be a coffin, which you can enter to take you down to the Castle Watering Hole and Ruins of Unte. To the right of the Ruins of Unte is a waterfall - take the path on the left side.

Continue along that path, drop down to the lower section by the stone structure, and then head west. From here you'll want to jump down a set of coffins in the wall (indicated by the '1' in the below image), and then drop down a set of coffins again (indicated by the '2').

In this final lower section you will be able to locate the Darklight Catacombs - a dungeon that revolves around shadows so make sure to bring a torch of some kind. You'll need to make your way through this entire dungeon and beat Jori, Elder Inquisitor at the end.

Once you beat Jori you'll then have access to the Abyssal Woods, but don't underestimate the horrors of this area as they can take you out in an instant.

Midra's Manse is also the 'legacy dungeon' of the area, so make sure to head to the southwest of the Abyssal Woods as you won't want to miss what the mansion holds.

• Finger Ruins of Rhia
• Grand Altar of Dragon Communion
• Jagged Peak Summit

Progress through the Dragon's Pit dungeon in Gravesite Plain, and defeat Ancient Dragon-Man at the end.

Head north at the lake with the sleeping dragons, and continue along the path until you reach Jagged Peak. There are a few bosses and tougher enemies along the way, so definitely come prepared if you wish to survive.

• Southern Nameless Mausoleum
• Finger Weaver's Hovel
• The Fissure

There are multiple ways to reach Charo's Hidden Grave, but the route I took involved going through the Dragon's Pit dungeon mentioned within the Jagged Peak section.

Instead of heading north towards Jagged Peak at the sleeping dragon lake, head south towards the giant stone dragon. Use Torrent to jump up onto its wings, then ride across until you reach the eastern side of Charo's Hidden Grave.

• Garden of Deep Purple

On the southwestern coast of Charo's Hidden Grave is a big hole that takes you down to the Fissure. If you reach the bottom and there is a seal, you'll need to make your way to the Shadow Keep so that Miquella discards his Great Rune and his seal will be broken. You might also need a torch once the seal has been broken, as it's quite dark down there!

From there, just continue through the bottom of the hole and you'll reach the Stone Coffin Fissure. In order to reach the Garden of Deep Purple you'll need to drop down at the top of the stairs at the Fissure Depths Site of Grace. This is one of the instances where you won't take fall damage, so don't worry about the size of the drop.

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Every Southern California theme park ride, ranked

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Times theme park critic Todd Martens was handed a wild assignment: Rank every theme park ride in Southern California. The mission was dizzying, literally, as he spent months fastening his seatbelt and zipping through mountains, strapping on AR goggles and floating into fairy tales. He judged each attraction not just on sheer entertainment, but on artistry and historical significance.

Here are the results. Below you’ll find guides to Disneyland, Universal Studios, Knott’s Berry Farm and Magic Mountain, with their rides ranked from best to worst. Use them to plan a trip to the park — or to start a debate. What would be your No. 1?

Every ride at Disneyland, ranked

Our top choice may be controversial. You’re welcome to disagree — politely. We’re talking about the Happiest Place on Earth, after all.

Every ride at Universal Studios Hollywood, ranked

This is a theme park set in a working movie studio. While that means space is at a premium, it creates a lively, “only in SoCal” energy that no other theme park can match.

Every ride at Knott’s Berry Farm, ranked

What began in the 1920s as a family-run roadside berry and tea destination has become a thriving SoCal theme park — and a fried chicken haven.

Every thrill ride at Six Flags Magic Mountain, ranked

The Valencia amusement park is cherished for its mix of coaster styles — be it wooden, loop-based, single-rail or ones with mind-confounding seats that rotate 360 degrees.

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Election latest: Farage on defensive after supporters caught on camera making racist, murderous and homophobic remarks

Rishi Sunak has spoken out after a Reform UK supporter was filmed making racist comments about him - with party leader Nigel Farage forced on to the defensive. Meanwhile, Sir Keir Starmer has distanced himself from a Labour colleague's previous criticism of Donald Trump.

Friday 28 June 2024 14:45, UK

• General Election 2024

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• Sunak: Farage supporter using racial slur 'makes me angry'
• Farage on defensive after supporters filmed making racist, murderous and homophobic comments
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Election essentials

• Manifesto pledges: Conservatives | Greens | Labour | Lib Dems | Plaid | Reform | SNP
• Trackers:  Who's leading polls? | Is PM keeping promises?
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• Follow Sky's politics podcasts:  Electoral Dysfunction | Politics At Jack And Sam's
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Last night, Channel 4 broadcast a report in which a Reform UK campaigner called Rishi Sunak a "P***".

Asked about this today, the prime minister told broadcasters: "Well, my two daughters have to see and hear Reform people who campaign for Nigel Farage calling me an effing 'P***'.

"It hurts, and it makes me angry, and I think he has some questions to answer. 

"And I don't repeat those words lightly. I do so deliberately because this is too important not to call out clearly for what it is."

Asked about repeating the word the Reform supporter used, he said: "I hate having to do it, I chose my words deliberately, I hate having to repeat them, absolutely hate it.

"But I also think it's important to call this out for what it is and be clear about what it is."

By Megan Harwood-Baynes , digital investigations reporter

Reform and Labour have bought up advertising on two major national news sites in a bid to sway voters in the remaining days before the general election.

When looking at MailOnline, Nigel Farage's stern face beams down from the main banner and on the left.

Their manifesto - which have they been calling their "contract" with the public - is pasted down the side of the news website.

Meanwhile, Labour, perhaps in a bid to emulate 1992's "It's the Sun Wot Won It" front page, have pasted their advertising all over The Sun online.

With a countdown to 4 July, they also bemoan "14 years of Tory chaos".

Crucially, neither of these papers have openly endorsed a candidate, although a regular reader may be forgiven for not noticing this nuance.

In 1992, The Sun claimed credit for the victory of the Conservative Party, after openly campaigning to drive voters away from the then-Labour leader Neil Kinnock.

It is regularly cited as demonstrative of the influence the tabloid press could have over politicians and elections.

So far, the Daily Telegraph has come out in support of the Tories, while the Guardian, Daily Mirror, Economist, New Statesman and Daily Record have all backed the Labour Party.

The Times, The Sun and the Daily Mail have not endorsed anyone, and the Daily Star has taken the unusual (but unsurprising) approach of support Count Binface, labelling him the "most sane politician in the UK".

And while the Mirror has already backed Labour, and despite - at a first glance - appearing to be plastered with advertising for the party, the red banners promising "change" are actually for coffee brand Nespresso.

Sky News has been looking at the advertising as part of the Online Election project - a Sky News initiative to cover how the campaign is playing out online, led by Tom Cheshire , Online Campaign correspondent .

We also found  one party has been dominating social media  - but it's not the one spending the most.

Reform UK has been dominating, with its page growing by more than 32,000 followers over the course of the campaign. 

Meanwhile, the Tories have only seen 596 new followers.

Sixteen of the top 20 most-loved posts were also from Mr Farage.

And for some Tories, the only brand has been seen as so bad, that  some have ditched it altogether .

There has been uproar today about comments made by Reform UK supporters.

So what do we know?

Channel 4 publishes expose

On Thursday evening, Channel 4 publish an article about racism and homophobia being used by Reform UK canvassers.

This included undercover footage of a man called Andrew Parker in Mr Farage's constituency, who used a racial slur about Rishi Sunak.

He also said young army recruits should be sent to "f****** just shoot" migrants arriving on the beach in Kent.

Another Reform supporter made homophobic comments, describing the Pride flag as "degenerate" and suggesting members of the LGBT community were paedophiles.

Party leader Nigel Farage said he was "dismayed" by the comments.

Allegations of impropriety

By Friday morning, Mr Farage and his deputy Richard Tice were challenging the reporting, alleging that Mr Parker was an actor and insisting the whole thing "stinks".

Sky News spoke to Mr Parker. He says that while he has worked as an actor, he was volunteering for Reform.

He denied taking money, and said he supported Mr Farage.

Channel 4 also said they did not pay anyone and stood by their reporting.

Sunak reacts

At 1pm, Mr Sunak reacted to what had been said. 

He repeated the word used by Mr Parker - "P***" - and said it "hurts" and makes him "angry".

He also said his two daughters had to hear it being said.

Sir Keir Starmer earlier declined to say that Mr Farage was racist - but said the words used were.

Farage doubles down

Fifteen minutes later, Mr Farage appeared on ITV show Loose Women.

He doubled down on his suggestion that the incident had somehow been staged, without providing details.

The Reform leader says he had previously met Mr Parker - and claimed the man was putting on "an act right from the start".

Mr Farage said: "I have to tell you, this whole thing was a complete and total set-up, I have no doubt about that."

By Darren McCaffrey, political correspondent, in Teeside

I've spent much of the last five weeks with the prime minister, dozens of visits, dozens of questions. But I've never seen him as angry as today.

The broadcast last night of a Reform canvasser making a targeted racist slur against the prime minister has left Rishi Sunak not just angry - but hurt too. 

When asked why he had deliberately decided to repeat the slur itself in an interview, he said it was not something he wanted to do.

"I hate it, I hate having to do it, I choose my words deliberately, I hate it, but I have to call it out for what it is," he said.

On a personal level, this clearly matters to the prime minister and his desire to protect his family. 

He has mentioned his daughters having to hear racism like this several times.

Politically, the Conservatives are hoping that this will also make voters think twice about Reform and about Nigel Farage. 

When I asked Mr Sunak if he would now describe Reform as a racist party - he wouldn't go that far, but suggested "Nigel Farage has questions to answer".

Reform UK leader Nigel Farage is appearing on ITV's Loose Women.

He doubles down on the suggestions that Channel 4 - or a production company - paid a Reform supporter to say racist things about the prime minister.

Andrew Parker, referred to Rishi Sunak as a "P***" and said young army recruits should be sent to "f****** just shoot" migrants arriving on the beach in Kent.

Mr Parker has spoken to Sky News and denied he took any money, while praising Mr Farage.

He has worked as an actor but says he was volunteering when he was caught on undercover camera making the remarks.

Mr Farage claimed "no one speaks" how the man spoke in the footage and that he was putting on an accent.

Mr Parker used the same voice as he did in the Channel 4 video when he spoke to Sky.

The Reform UK leader adds that the whole thing was "a set up" - and that "something is wrong here".

Asked about other Reform supporters who were seen making homophobic comments, Mr Farage says the group were "drunk" after watching the football, and were "vulgar" and "wrong" and "gone" from the party.

Following on from its reporting last night - and claims from Reform that the man involved might have been paid - Channel 4 has defended its expose.

A spokesperson said in a statement: "We strongly stand by our rigorous and duly impartial journalism which speaks for itself.

"We met Mr Parker for the first time at Reform UK party headquarters, where he was a Reform party canvasser.

"We did not pay the Reform UK canvasser or anyone else in this report. Mr Parker was not known to Channel 4 News and was filmed covertly via the undercover operation."

Yesterday, Channel 4 news published a report in which Reform UK activist Andrew Parker was captured by an undercover reporter posing as a canvasser in Clacton, Essex, where leader Nigel Farage is a candidate.

Mr Parker used a racial slur to refer to the prime minister, and said the army should "just shoot" migrants crossing the Channel.

Since the report came out, it emerged that Mr Parker had previously worked as an actor.

This fact was used by Mr Farage and Reform deputy leader Richard Tice to suggest what happens "does not add up" and "stinks".

However, Sky News has now spoken to Mr Parker - and he denies being a paid actor.

He says he was "just a volunteer" delivering leaflets - and that he still supports Mr Farage and thinks he is "a brilliant guy".

Mr Parker denied that he had put on a "rough voice" - adding that he feels like he was "set up" and "goaded on" by the undercover journalist, and he was using his natural accent.

He added that he first joined the campaign after Mr Farage launched it in Clacton.

Acting, he says, makes up a small portion of his income and he can't remember his last job in the sector.

He denies being racist, saying his word choice was partially down to his age.

"It's the sort of language we use. There's no racism at all in it. I am a decent guy to be honest," he told Sky.

Reform has not contacted him since, he says.

Read more and see the other candidates for Clacton here:

We've got six days to go until the election - and today is a bit quieter than some of the other days on the campaign trail.

Here's everything you need to know this lunchtime:

• Sir Keir Starmer spoke to the BBC for a phone in interview;
• He confirmed he would stand down as leader if Labour lost the election badly;
• Sir Keir also described the reported comments made by a Reform campaigner as ' racist ' - but did use the label to describe Nigel Farage;
• He would not comment on the US debate overnight - instead saying he would work with whoever is president if he is PM.

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• Junior doctors in Wales  have accepted a pay offer from the Welsh administration there;
• Rylan Clark revealed the changes he would make to the political system;
• And Education Secretary Gillian Keegan admitted no poll was showing a good outcome for the Conservatives.

Stay with us throughout the afternoon as we keep you up to date on the latest developments.

And don't forget, Politics Hub  is live from 7pm.

Following the news that the Labour run Welsh administration  - which is not currently undergoing an election - agreed a pay rise for junior doctors, the Tory group for the nation have responded.

Sam Rowlands the shadow minister for health, said: "The Welsh Labour government has acted shamefully throughout this episode. 

"By only releasing the funds for a pay deal when it was politically advantageous to do so, Labour have caused the strikes which led to missed operations, extra pressure on our NHS and undue stress on Wales' consultants, SAS doctors and junior doctors. 

"The Welsh Conservatives will never play politics with the Welsh NHS."

 By Tomos Evans , Wales reporter

Doctors in Wales have accepted a pay offer from the Welsh government.

This will be seen as a win for the Labour Party, which is in power in Wales.

The British Medical Association announced on Friday that the three separate disputes between the government and consultants, junior doctors, and specialists, had come to an end.

In a referendum, 96% of junior doctors voted to accept a pay uplift of 7.4%, bringing the total to 12.4% backdated to April 2023.

Some 86% of consultants and 82% of SAS doctors also voted to end their disputes.

Dr Oba Babs-Osibodu and Dr Peter Fahey, co-chairs of the BMA's Welsh Junior Doctors Committee, said junior doctors had been "undervalued".

"While we are pleased with the progress we have made, the fight for full pay restoration is far from over," they added.

Wales's first minister, Vaughan Gething, said the Welsh government had "listened to doctors" - and had negotiated a deal which "ensures doctors are back at work".

Health secretary Eluned Morgan said the government had negotiated the deal "despite the most severe financial situation we've faced in the devolution era".

"It means all our efforts are now focused on ensuring the best possible clinical outcomes for people in Wales," she added.

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