Category: News

Father’s Day is always a great time to turn the dad jokes on dads. Last year, Maya Hawke paid tribute to her dad, veteran film star Ethan Hawke, who happened to go googly-eyed over Rihanna at the 2015 NBA All-Star Game. As the story goes (and as revealed in these Getty images), Ethan attended that game and found himself with one person in between himself and Rihanna while enjoying courtside seats. That’s what Ethan alludes to with Photo #1 in an Instagram post as shown below. The “one person” happens to be Ethan’s son, Levon. Well, Photo #2 showed dad switching seats with his son, who may or may not have been face-palming in embarrassment. Photo #3 is shown above and may or may not reflect Levon’s amusement at the situation.

Ethan enjoyed Rihanna’s “brilliant” halftime show (and he is in good company, including Cardi B.), so he’s reliving his momentous 2015 occasion. On Instagram, he also wrote, “I’m hoping my son can find it in his heart to forgive a Dad for taking his moment.”

Ethan does look rather pleased with himself in Photo #2. However, he leaves some important stuff out here. As in, what are Ethan and Rihanna discussing in that third photo? That’s real “fly on the wall” territory, but I’m gonna go with this: they were definitely discussing The Purge.

The Last Of Us has been gifting us with some emotionally-charged plotlines, in between scenes of Pedro Pascal looking frustrated and that icky zombie guy. But there are people out there who seem to exist solely to complain about every move that HBO makes in regard to the show (or, like, life in general).

The series was met with backlash after a critically acclaimed episode featured a love story between two men, played by Nick Offerman and Murray Bartlett. But Bella Ramsey, who plays the fearless Ellie, doesn’t seem concerned about the haters.

In a new interview with GQ, Ramsey addressed the controversy, which she doesn’t let affect her. “I’m not particularly anxious about it,” Ramsey said about backlash over the inclusive storylines. She added, “I know people will think what they want to think. But they’re gonna have to get used to it. If you don’t want to watch the show because it has gay storylines, because it has a trans character, that’s on you, and you’re missing out. It isn’t gonna make me afraid. I think that comes from a place of defiance.”

Ramsey announced earlier this year that she identifies as non-binary, though she doesn’t have a pronoun preference. She also said that in between takes, she and Pedro Pascal would discuss sexual identity. “They weren’t always deep [conversations], they could be funny and humorous, the whole spectrum,” Ramsey said. Pascal’s sister came out as transgender in 2021, and Ramsey said that these conversations help different generations understand where each other is coming from. “We were just very honest and open with each other.”

Fans of the original video game series will note that Ellie was portrayed as a lesbian in the universe, so there will likely be more queer-inclusive storylines to come. The more the merrier!

(Via Variety)

The best Scotch whisky is going to cost you a little money — there’s no getting around that fact. You don’t have to spend a crazy amount of drink good Scotch whisky though. In fact, there are some great bottles that sneak in under $100 that you can actually find on most shelves. That’s a win-win and those are the sorts of picks that I’m focused on calling out below.

For this list of great Scotch whiskies, I’m naming 10 bottles of Scotch that both cost around $85 and freaking rule. That said, I am ranking these bottles. Scotch is not a monolith and there are some huge swings in flavor profiles in the below whiskies. Some of these whiskies are not going to be for everyone, and that’s okay because all of these whiskies are excellently made. Read the tasting notes and find something that sparks your interest.

When it comes to price, we are truly getting into the good stuff at this price point. Still, prices are going to vary by region. Click on the price links below to see if you can snag a bottle wherever you are. If you can, you’ll be in for a great whisky treat. Let’s dive in!

• Johnnie Walker Vs. Chivas: Which Scotch Whisky Brand Will Win Our Blind Test?
• The 50 Best Scotch Whiskies Of 2022, Ranked
• The Best Speyside Single Malt Scotch Whiskies Under $100, Ranked
• World Class ‘Sipping’ Single Malt Whiskies Under $100, Ranked
• The Best Peated Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Blind Tasted And Ranked

10. The Glenrothes Speyside Single Malt Scotch Whisky Whisky Maker’s Cut

ABV: 48.8%

Average Price: $85

The Whisky:

The bulbous bottle from The Glenrothes is all about the sherry. The expression spends an undisclosed amount of years in first-fill sherry casks. When those barrels are just right, the whisky is then batched and vatted before being proofed down only slightly.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: You’re met with candied orange peel spiked with hints of eggnog spices and a touch of gooey pine resin on the nose.

Palate: The taste holds on tightly to that candied orange while adding in a velvety vanilla cream generously dusted with those eggnog spices and a softer touch of almost sweet wood.

Finish: The finish zeroes in on the orange and nutmeg as the vanilla and oak fade away on the slow end.

Bottom Line:

This is a good spot to start, especially if you’re looking for a bridge between bourbon sweetness and Scotch whisky’s spicy malt. Overall, this is a good on-the-rocks pour that works well in cocktails with a bitter bite.

9. Jura Single Malt Scotch Whisky Seven Wood

ABV: 42%

Average Price: $80

The Whisky:

The juice from Jura is aged in ex-bourbon for an undisclosed amount of years. The whisky is then re-casked in seven barrels: first-fill ex-bourbon from the U.S. and Vosges, Bertranges, Jupilles, Allier, Tronçais, and Limousin barrels from France. The ripple here is that all of those French barrels were new (never held wine) when the whisky went in.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: You get a burnt coffee note next to a dark chocolate bar cut with candied ginger and, maybe, a hint of strawberry on the nose.

Palate: Black licorice arrives with a note of burnt orange peels and grilled peaches with a drop of honey next to a wisp of beach campfire smoke.

Finish: The end lingers for just the right amount of time as the distant smoke fades, leaving a hint of sea spray, cacao, and burnt fruit.

Bottom Line:

This is a deep whisky that’s somehow familiar and comforting, thanks to a very easygoing vibe. Overall, I’d mix this into a cocktail where I wanted the whisky to shine.

8. Johnnie Walker Gold Label Reserve Blended Malt Scotch Whisky

ABV: 40%

Average Price: $89

The Whisky:

This no-age-statement blend leans into that signature Walker marriage of Highland and Speyside whiskies with a small dose of Western Scottish whisky for good measure. The lion’s share of the whisky involved in this gilded bottle is Clynelish, a Highland whisky that adds a modicum of peat to the mix.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: The nose balances old leather gloves and honeyed oats with meaty sultanas, cinnamon-spiced malts, a hint of anise, and an echo of grilled fruit.

Palate: The palate leans into the grilled fruit with a smoky underbelly and a savory edge (almost papaya) next to a lush vanilla cream and a sharp clove/allspice vibe.

Finish: The finish combines the dried fruit and honey with a twinge of florals as a whisper of earthy peat sneaks in late, kind of like a dry moss slowly growing on a tree.

Bottom Line:

This is one of those whiskies that’s just good. It’s great in a highball with really good fizzy water and some botanical or floral garnishes. It also makes a killer cocktail base as well as an easy sipper over a big ol’ rock.

7. Lagavulin Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky Offerman Charred Oak Cask Aged 11 Years

ABV: 46%

Average Price: $87

The Whisky:

This brand-new release is the third collaboration between Lagavulin and Nick Offerman. This time around, the team at Lagavulin took 11-year-old malt and finished it in heavily charred casks that used to hold bourbon and red wine. Those barrels were then batched and built around flavor notes that pair perfectly with a steak dinner.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: The nose opens with a rich peatiness that’s tied to pecan chocolate clusters and dried cranberries with a dusting of sea salt, burnt orange zest, and fine nutmeg.

Palate: The palate dips those red tart berries in dark salted chocolate with cinnamon bark and clove buds next to espresso cream and a whisper of malty vanilla wafers with fresh honey in between.

Finish: The end has this enigmatic mix of smoked toffee, salted black licorice, and brandied cherries wrapped in cinnamon-laced tobacco and folded into an old cedar box.

Bottom Line:

This is a fun one. It’s not as wildly peaty as some Lagavulins and feels very dialed into an American whisky palate, making it a great addition to your bar cart. I dig this over some ice or in a cocktail.

6. Highland Park Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky

ABV: 63.3%

Average Price: $88

The Whisky:

This yearly drop is part of a new line from the Orkney Island’s distillery. The whisky is a blend of single malts that are aged exclusively in old American oak that previously held sherry. The barrels are married and bottled as is, to assure you’re getting all the nuance and flavor of their malts meeting that oak.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: There’s a light sense of wildflowers on the nose with a rich vanilla husk that leads towards a touch of peat.

Palate: The taste is surprisingly silken (for a cask strength) with rich and buttery toffee next to honeysuckle, eggnog spices and creaminess, and a small dose of orange zest as a counterpoint.

Finish: The end holds onto the creaminess and spices as the peat just edges in with a whisper of resinous pine smoke.

Bottom Line:

There’s a softness to this dram that’s very enticing. I like this neat with a splash of water to let it bloom a little in the glass. You’ll get a deeper sense of creamy orange and winter spice with a softer and fattier smoke.

5. Caol Ila Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky Aged 12 Years

ABV: 43%

Average Price: $86

The Whisky:

Caol Ila is a tiny Islay distillery that is more familiar to hardcore whisky fans than the casual drinker. This expression is the distillery’s entry-point whisky that highlights the subtle peatiness, gentle aging, and the soft lapping of the sea against the distillery’s outer white walls.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: There’s a matrix of dried roses soaked in water touched by orange oils, almonds, and a trace of classic Listerine buzziness.

Palate: The sip has a savoriness that feels like olive oil speckled with coarse sea salt next to a distant billow of briny smoke, all counterpointed by sweet malts and fruits.

Finish: The finish sweetens the smokiness with a fruity-yet-spicy tobacco edge while the end fades towards an almost salty-sour hint of citrus.

Bottom Line:

This is getting into the really good stuff. Caol Ila is the whisky lover’s whisky and this is only the introductory bottle from the brand. Entry-level aside, this whisky poured over a big piece of ice is damn near perfection in a glass, especially if you’re looking for a deep yet easy-going sipping experience.

4. Glenmorangie Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky Nectar d’Or

ABV: 46%

Average Price: $84

The Whisky:

This dram from Glenmorangie is a much-loved Highland malt. The juice is matured in ex-bourbon barrels for an undisclosed number of years. The whisky is then transferred to French Sauternes barrels which held sweet dessert wines where it spends two more years finishing.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: This has that classic “shortbread cut with lemon and vanilla” vibe that makes some single malts so approachable on the nose.

Palate: The sip has a buttery toffee nature that’s layered with subtle oak, mild brown spices, and more fruits tied into a creamy pudding body.

Finish: The spice then leans a little towards ginger with that buttery shortbread as it slowly fades out.

Bottom Line:

This is soft and so welcoming from the nose to the finish. It’s probably the smoothest experience on this whole list that gives you great depth and a nice, familiar feeling from top to bottom.

3. Ardbeg Uigeadail Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky

ABV: 54.2%

Average Price: $80

The Whisky:

The mix of peated malts, yeast, and that inky lake water from Islay creates a spirit that’s already full of flavors before it goes into the barrel. That hot juice is then aged in both ex-bourbon and ex-sherry casks. When the whisky in the barrel is just right, they’re blended into this single malt expression, proofed with local spring water, and bottled without any filtration.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: The nose is a matrix of smoked plums next to lush Christmas cakes full of dried and candied fruit and citrus with plenty of fatty nuts, dark and wintry spice, and buttery caramel drizzle hit with plenty of sea salt next to a whisper of dried lavender and overripe, almost woody plantains.

Palate: The palate balances sweet berries and pear candy with smoky salmon fat and dark chocolate malts.

Finish: The mid-palate adds a hint of dried chili heat while fading towards a finish full of smoked fat, dried fruit, and a buttery dark chocolate sauce bespeckled with flakes of smoked pink sea salt and cedar chips.

Bottom Line:

This is a bold whisky that’ll have its fans and detractors. I love the peatiness here because it’s not over the top. It’s a briny, funky, fatty peatiness tied to fruitiness and nuttiness with a burnt chocolate underbelly that only widens and softens with a little water in the glass.

This is complex and dark in all the right ways and then bright and fresh just when you need it to be.

2. The GlenDronach Revival Aged 15 Years Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky

ABV: 46%

Average Price: $89

The Whisky:

Revival 15 takes its sherried nature very seriously. The juice is aged in a combination of Pedro Ximénez and Oloroso sherry casks for 15 long years. Those casks are married and this whisky is brought down to a very easy-drinking 92 proof with that soft Highland water.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: Dark berry brambles with tart and sweet fruit, stems, thorns, and even a little black dirt draw you in on the nose with a hint of walnut shell and cherry pie.

Palate: The palate is a creamy-yet-bitter dark chocolate orange that leads toward a semi-savory fig countered by ripe apricot.

Finish: The chocolate comes back with cinnamon spice and more dark berries and walnut at the end.

Bottom Line:

This is f*cking delicious. It’s the most classic and wonderful unpeated single malt on the list. Pour it neat, over a rock, or in a whisky-forward cocktail. You will not be disappointed.

1. Cragganmore Distiller’s Edition Speyside Single Malt Scotch Whisky

ABV: 40%

Average Price: $88

The Whisky:

Cragganmore is an iconic Scottish distillery. The whisky is matured in sherry casks for 12 years. It’s then transferred into American oak casks that held port for a final maturation phase before proofing and bottling.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: Fennel leads to dried fruits — sultanas, prunes, dried fig — and fresh apples on the nose with a hint of tartness and skin next to savory (almost oily) herb branches and leaves.

Palate: The taste, on the other hand, leans into sweet oak, pear candies, fresh figs, and a softness that’s almost hard to believe while this medley of caraway, fresh fennel, and sweet cardamom dance together on your palate.

Finish: The end is full of sweet fruits — think ripe pears, green tomatoes, and star fruit — and has just the right touches of soft oak, oily vanilla, and savory green herbs as it fades towards a final note of wet wicker right after a rain storm.

Bottom Line:

While I love The GlenDronch Revival, there’s something about the funky green herbal and orchard notes of this whiskey that keeps calling me back for more. It’s unique but nostalgic. It’s like silk but full of surprises. This is such a good whisky. It also truly blooms with some water added, leading you through herb gardens, fruit orchards, and creameries on a sunny day.

The Super Bowl is the biggest sporting event of the year in the United States. Pair that with the fact that Rihanna performed the halftime show this year, and it must have been a real challenge to actually get to the stadium for those lucky/rich enough to have tickets. It seems like that was the case for Cardi B and Offset, as the two ended up running in an effort to not miss Rihanna’s performance.

In a video shared on Cardi’s Instagram Story last night (February 12), Cardi and Offset are seen running to get into the stadium. It wasn’t a particularly fast run, though, as Cardi was wearing high heels that made speedy travel a challenge.

It appears their effort paid off, though, as it was apparently a really close call for them: In another Instagram Story video, Cardi films the start of the performance and exclaims, “We just made it on time.” She also offered some general excitement and cheering in other clips.

That wasn’t Cardi and Offset’s only Super Bowl presence this year. The pair just launched their own meal at McDonald’s and had a commercial for it during the game. The menu item is named after them and includes a cheeseburger, Quarter Pounder with cheese, barbecue sauce, large fries, an apple pie, a large Hi-C, and a large Coke.

Cardi B is a Warner Music artist. Uproxx is an independent subsidiary of Warner Music Group.

Due in large part to the thing where it’s hard to hide something like Hollywood movie star Ben Affleck randomly working a Dunkin’ drive-thru in Medford, Massachusetts, The Accountant star’s Super Bowl spot for his beloved coffee and donut chain wasn’t a total surprise. (It also didn’t help that Jennifer Lopez was on hand, which really gave away the game.)

However, the gag was a surprise to the unsuspecting Dunkin’ customers who pulled around to the window to see the on-again/off-again Batman handling their order. While the Super Bowl spot captured some of that fun, commercial time during the big game is crazy expensive, so a lot of the interactions were left on the cutting room floor. Until now.

Following the spot, Dunkin’ uploaded outtakes from Affleck’s time behind the register, and it’s even better than the actual commercial. The actor clearly had a ball messing with customers and, unlike on a Kevin Smith movie, he was given free rein to improv as he pretended to be out of both coffee and donuts or frantically repeated orders back to customers.

According to the Wall Street Journal, the whole concept was Affleck’s idea because, of course, the man is constantly looking for ways to get inside a Dunkin’ for hours on end. Affleck also knew how the locals would react to the hidden camera idea.

Some used invective-flecked outbursts to describe his “inept” service, he said.

“It’s Boston, after all, so we had some rather coarse and agitated people who were willing to voice their displeasure in a colorful way, and I’m still lobbying to include the most interesting of those in some of the edgiest social spots,” said Mr. Affleck.

As for how much money Dunkin’ lost by letting Affleck have full access to the coffee urns and crullers, well, we do not know as of this writing, but presumably millions. Maybe even billions.

(Via Wall Street Journal)

If you’re looking to have great sex but can’t get out of your own head and just embrace the moment (the key to the best sex) you’ve come to the right place. Smoking weed makes sex better. In addition to the plant being an anxiety-reducing, sense-enhancing, inhibitor, THC is a vasodilator — which means it dilates blood vessels — and helps to allow for quicker and stronger blood flow to the areas that need it most.

It’s almost as if weed was tailor-made for mind-blowing, senses-tingling, euphoric sex. Why? Well, for truly great sex, you need to be aware of not just your body but your partner’s body and the sensations you’re sharing. When you aren’t dealing with all the extra baggage of your overactive thoughts you’ll better be able to get in touch with the physical sensations and being present — and we cannot stress this enough — is what it’s all about.

Here is the thing though, there isn’t a single strain of weed out there that is guaranteed to boost your libido, “put you in the mood,” or turn you into a sex god/goddess/alien overlord (if that’s what you’re into). Unfortunately, that’s not really how it works and if anyone tells you otherwise, they’re straight-up lying to you. You’re going to have to listen to your body’s and its needs and select a strain that works for whatever you’ve got going on. Strain choice is important, and we’re going to get into that in a second but first, we have to talk about the science.

If you don’t care about the studies, skip this next section, we also have some wise words from experts. If you don’t care about that either and just want to get high and f*ck, well hey, more power to you — go ahead and skip to the strain selection section. But you’ll be missing out on some knowledge and there isn’t a person out there that doesn’t think “knowing cool shit” is hot as f*ck.

PART I — What The Studies Say About Weed & Sex

So you’re a skeptic and anecdotal evidence (all your stoner friends who swear it works for everything) isn’t enough for you. Respect. You’ll be happy to know that there are some real studies out there that explore THC’s potential as a sex enhancer. One large study, which was conducted at the Stanford University School of medicine and collected data from 28,176 women and 22,943 men, found that participants using cannabis were having more sex than their non-cannabis smoking counterparts. The study marked a 22% increase in sex for men and a 24% increase in women. So if smoking doesn’t necessarily make sex better, you’ll at the very least be having more of it and “practice makes perfect!”

There are also studies out there that attempt to measure the positive effect THC has on sexual satisfaction, particularly for women. According to Psychology Today, researchers at Missouri’s St. Louis University conducted two separate surveys of adult women that in both cases found that women reported that casual use enhanced both their libidos and the quality of their pleasure. A more recent study centered around marijuana’s relationship to sexual function in women and published in the medical journal Sexual Medicine found that a majority of women in the study reported an increase in sex drive, improvement in orgasm, and a decrease in pain with women who used marijuana before sexual activity. Those women also had higher odds of satisfactory orgasm compared to women who reported no marijuana use. Notably, women also reported that THC didn’t result in a change in lubrication.

If that all doesn’t sound like great f*cking news, well… it’s no wonder you aren’t having better sex!

PART II — What Do The Experts Say About Weed & Sex

Studies are great, but there is a level of coldness and detachment when it comes to reading scientific journals. That’s not sexy, so to get an even better handle on THC’s relationship to sex we reached out to sex therapist Ashley Manta, to ask her a few specific questions you might have regarding cannabis and sex. Manta is an award-winning pleasure and intimacy coach and the host of the Elevated Intimacy Podcast and the creator of the lifestyle brand CannaSexual (answers are direct quotes).

Straight up, does Cannabis actually improve sex?

In a recent study published in the Journal of Cannabis Research, Amanda Moser (the lead researcher) and her team found that “over 70% of the 811 participants surveyed reported increased desire and orgasm intensity.” This study’s findings are consistent with anecdotal reports that cannabis heightens sensations and increases pleasure, which often results in greater sexual interest and satisfaction.

Are sativa or indica strains better or worse for sex? Is it all about the terpenes?

Sativa and indica designations are largely marketing terms and conversational shorthand at this point. From a botanical perspective, while indica leaves are shorter and more bushy and sativa leaves are longer and thinner, the shape of the leaves has no bearing on the ability to predict the effects of a given strain. See Dr. Ethan Russo’s work on this topic.

Terpenes and cannabinoid content (the types of cannabinoids like THC, CBD, CBN, etc. not the percentage of THC) are much more impactful on the effects of a strain. Still, even as such, each individual’s body chemistry and tolerance, not to mention mindset and environment, will have a profound impact on their experience.

Are there strains better for male or female arousal?

The strains that are better are the ones that work best for the individual. It’s important for a person to figure out how they want to feel, and then choose strains or products that they’ve found to be most effective for that, rather than going by a particular strain name that they believe will be more arousing based on marketing. Across the board, starting with a lower dose and adding more gradually until the desired cruising altitude is reached will go better for enjoying intimacy and eroticism than “getting stoned” and hoping that increases arousal.

Cannabis is not a magic horny potion, and no amount of cannabis is going to make someone want to have sex if they genuinely don’t. That said, cannabis can help address the things that get in the way of arousal, like discomfort, shame, feeling disconnected from one’s body, or performance anxiety–and those effects transcend gender.

Are THC-infused products better for sex or flower?

It depends what the consumer is going for. Infused products like topicals are a great option for people who have pain, especially pain with penetration, and may not want to feel intoxicated. Flower is great for folks who do want to feel buzzed to help shift their minds into a more pleasure-accessible headspace. Edibles, especially low-dose edibles of 5mg or less, are a great introductory option for someone who might be newer to mixing cannabis with intimacy–but I’d always recommend trying the product first solo before bringing it into partnered exploration.

PART III — Choosing The Right Strain

Well, there you have it! Studies and an expert — now we can finally talk about the strains! But first (no, seriously, this is the last bit of preamble) let’s talk a little bit about terpenes. Terpenes are the aromatic compounds found in cannabis that make you feel relaxed, euphoric, and relieve pain. If you like the way a certain strain makes you feel, it has less to do with it being an indica or sativa and more to do with the terpenes.

So what are the different terpenes and what do they do?

That’s an article in itself (luckily we wrote it here) so we’ll just give you a crash course on some of the most commonly found terpenes in weed. Limonene tends to fill you with feelings of euphoria while damping down anxiety and depression. Linalool is a calming mood booster that puts you in a state of relaxation and enhances your senses. Caryophyllene can help decrease inflammation and pain. Notice that I haven’t said any of them explicitly enhance sex, so as Manta said, what strain you choose is very much a personal choice. The world of terpenes goes much deeper than this, but we’ve already taken up a lot of your time!

You may find that you and your partner would be better off using entirely different strains, depending on your role that night in the bedroom — so feel free to experiment, that’s part of the fun. A word of caution though, if sex is on the table (or the bed, or the floor, or the shower) refrain from getting too high! Sex is the activity here not getting high, and getting too high can increase sedation and paranoia, as well as make you too lazy to want to have sex. That’s not fun, so keep the THC% low and limit yourself to a handful of hits depending on your tolerance. Not a full bowl or you’re going to get so blazed your eyes become bloodshot, and bloodshot eyes aren’t sexy.

Okay, okay, we’ve exhausted you with studies, questions, and technicalities, now here are 12 strains that will help you set the mood in just a few hits, with a focus on strains that smell and taste as good as the sex you’re about to have. Let’s get into it!

Amnesia Haze

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Strain: Hybrid
Dominant Terpenes: Myrcene, Caryophyllene, Limonene
THC: 19%

Packed with the relaxing effects of myrcene, and mood-boosting limonene, Amnesia Haze tends to produce uplifting feelings of euphoria and a boost of energy and confidence conducive to getting creative in the bedroom.

This is an ideal strain for couples who like to role-play as this hybrid strain will fill your head with new ideas and a desire to experiment. Will all the ideas be good ideas? Well, that remains to be seen, but if a good idea ends up in a bedroom failure, at least you and your partner will have something to laugh about over a second bowl before round two.

Best For:

Euphoric creative sex and roleplaying.

Visit Weedmaps to find Amnesia Haze at a dispensary near you.

Blue Dream

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Strain: Hybrid
Dominant Terpenes: Myrcene, Pinene, Caryophyllene
THC: 18%

The famous Blue Dream, with its intoxicating blueberry taste and smell, is a legend in the cannabis community thanks to its mood-boosting and mind-sharpening effects. This hybrid strain tends to get people in a relaxed state but doesn’t completely dull the mind, keeping you sharp, active, and ready for whatever comes your way.

A couple of hits of Blue Dream go a long way and the flavor and smell are so nice that it won’t be a total turn-off once things get hot and heavy.

Visit Weedmaps to find Blue Dream at a dispensary near you.

Best For:

Couples who like to smoke together. Blue Dream smells and tastes great, and melts away any anxious or stressful feelings.

Do-Si-Dos

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Strain: Hybrid
Dominant Terpenes: Limonene, Caryophyllene, Linalool
THC: 20%

Do-Si-Dos is a bit on the higher end of sex-enhancing strains THC-wise, so if you’re already a heavy user this might be the best play if your tolerance is totally shot. Do-Si-Dos sports a floral peppermint scent and will melt your body into a buzz of euphoric sensory pleasure after a single hit.

Best For:

Pass the bowl between you and your partner (or partners!), take a few hits, reach for the blindfold, and prepare to enter a world of shiver-inducing touch with closed-eye visuals that turn sex into a psychedelic experience.

Visit Weedmaps to find Do-Si-Dos at a dispensary near you.

GSC (Girl Scout Cookies)

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Strain: Hybrid
Dominant Terpenes: Caryophyllene, Limonene, Linalool
THC: 19%

You may know GSC by its former name, Girl Scout Cookies, and this famous and beloved strain is the perfect sexual enhancer thanks to its stress-relieving, mood-boosting, and calming effects. So if you’ve had a rough couple of days and you’re full of anxiety and stress, take a few hits of this to melt your troubles away and get your mind ready for life’s pleasures.

Aside from the effects, GSC just tends to taste and look great, sporting bright orange hairs and purple-flecked leaves, making this the perfect weed to break over the body of your partner, you know, if you’re into the sort of thing.

Best For:

The rough stuff.

Visit Weedmaps to find GSC at a dispensary near you.

Granddaddy Purple

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Strain: Hybrid
Dominant Terpenes: Pinene, Caryophyllene
THC: 17%

With its fairly low THC percentage, Granddaddy Purple is the perfect starter strain for experimenting with cannabis in the bedroom. The dominant terpene here in Pinene, has relaxing and pain-reducing properties, making this strain adaptable to any type of sex you’re trying to engage in, while boosting your senses, putting you in a relaxed state, and emboldening you to go beyond the vanilla.

Best For:

Anything. This is a great all-rounder, whether you’re looking for something slow and intimate, fast and rough, or anything in-between.

Visit Weedmaps to find Granddaddy Purp at a dispensary near you.

Green Crack

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Strain: Sativa
Dominant Terpenes: Myrcene, Caryophyllene, Pinene
THC: 17%

We know, the name is an absolute turn-off, but Green Crack is one of the best sativa sex enhancers we’ve ever come across. This mind-sharpening and creativity-boosting strain will fill you with a buzz of energy and euphoria, perfect for long sessions in the sheets that you can stretch throughout your day. Green Crack is the perfect wake-and-bake strain and an ideal vacation companion.

Aside from its effects, Green Crack also sports tropical citrus and mango notes, making it a great option for bongs and vaporizers. But if you choose the former, be sure to refresh that bong water or use mouthwash after your session, there is nothing less sexy than bong breath.

Best For:

Morning sex. Roll out of bed, brush those teeth, and smoke up.

Visit Weedmaps to find Green Crack at a dispensary near you.

Harlequin

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Strain: Sativa
Dominant Terpenes: Myrcene, Pinene, Caryophyllene
THC: 5%
CBD: 9%

If you’re the type who likes microdosing, you probably read our proclamation of Granddaddy Purple as a low THC strain (17%) and shuddered at the thought of smoking something that strong — in which case, Harlequin is for you. This strain will hardly get you high, even if your tolerance is super low, but its high CBD and low THC content make it the perfect option for those looking to take the edge off.

High CBD strains tend to relieve pain and anxiety, so if those are particular hurdles for you to clear, Harlequin’s got your back.

Best For:

First timers. If you’re looking to experiment with weed in the bedroom but don’t like the idea of having super-stoned sex, start here.

Visit Weedmaps to find Harlequin at a dispensary near you.

Northern Lights

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Strain: Indica
Dominant Terpenes: Myrcene, Caryophyllene, Limonene
THC: 17%

If you’re all about spicy herbal flavors, flower aromas, and enhanced sensory experiences, Northern Lights is your strain. A few hits of Northern Lights (about five or six if you’re a heavy user) will send you into an instant body buzz as its euphoric effects take hold, making this an ideal option for extended foreplay sessions and sensory exploration.

Northern Lights has a time-slowing effect that will inspire you to take your time on everything, which will make you a better lovemaking partner. If any strain is going to sell you on the idea of cannabis as a sexual enhancer, it’s this one.

Best For:

Long sex sessions. If you want to get lost in the feelings of physical touch, this is the strain that’ll help you luxuriate in the ecstasy of pleasure.

Visit Weedmaps to find Northern Lights at a dispensary near you.

Pink Panties

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Strain: Indica
Dominant Terpenes: Myrcene, Caryophyllene, Pinene
THC: 20%

We know, the name is a little on the nose here, but whoever named this strain knew exactly why they were doing it. This strain is another stress-buster, and its tantalizing name and flowery and fruity flavor are guaranteed to put you in a good mood no matter how stressful the day has been.

But beware, Pink Panties is a high THC indica — so take it easy on this stuff or you’re more likely to hit the bed for sleep than any sort of sexual activity.

Best For:

End of the night sex. If you want to hit the hay immediately after you’re done rolling in it, this is the strain for you.

Visit Weedmaps to find Pink Panties at a dispensary near you.

Sour Diesel

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Strain: Sativa
Dominant Terpenes: Caryophyllene, Myrcene, Limonene
THC: 18.5%
CBD: 2%

Other than Harlequin, Sour Diesel is the only other strain on this list with a significant amount of CBD, which will help to melt away anxiety and pain, making this the perfect option for anyone with anxious thoughts wrecking their bedroom game.

Having said that, keep in mind that the name “Sour Diesel” is very apt, this strain has an overly pungent and chemical-infused aroma and flavor, it straight up stinks. That’s not a turn-on, so smoke this stuff with your partner outside — it’ll only be a matter of minutes before you’re hit with some cerebral enhancement that’ll have you excited to hit the bedroom. Or you know, just keep things outside. Go wild.

Best For:

Outdoor sex.

Visit Weedmaps to find Sour Diesel at a dispensary near you.

Trainwreck

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Strain: Hybrid
Dominant Terpenes: Terpinolene, Myrcene, Pinene
THC: 16%

One of the weaker strains on this list (aside from Harlequin), Trainwreck, despite its name, actually provides a super chill experience. This is the sort of strain to smoke when you need a simple head change, and a few hits will have you giggling and poking at your partner as its playful effects take hold.

Trainwreck sports a flowery and herbal flavor that’ll fill the room with a deliciously intoxicating smell, so if the smell of weed isn’t a complete turn-off, feel free to light up inside so you can get to the action even quicker. Keep this strain handy for quickies and shorter sex sessions that aren’t going to occupy your whole day, the high isn’t going to last too long with this one which is perfect if you’ve got a packed schedule.

Best For:

Thanks to its quick high and short duration of effects, this strain is ideal for quickies and short sex sessions.

Visit Weedmaps to find Trackwreck at a dispensary near you.

Wedding Cake

Strain: Hybrid
Dominant Terpenes: Limonene, Myrcene, Caryophyllene
THC: 23-25%

This list is in alphabetical order but we couldn’t find a better strain to end it on than Wedding Cake. This indica-dominant hybrid is absolutely packed with THC, so we only suggest it for hardcore smokers and heavy users, but the effects you get out of this strain cannot be denied. Its earthy and herbal flavors with hints of sweet vanilla will tantalize the palate while providing a sense-enhancing head change and a rush of euphoria with a single hit.

Plus, with a name like Wedding Cake, this strain is practically begging to come along on your honeymoon getaway or romantic weekend. If the idea of domesticity is a turn-off, Wedding Cake will still get you hella high and feeling euphoric, two ingredients for great sex.

Best For:

Stoners. If your tolerance is already pretty high, this is the sort of luxurious and premium strain that is going to get you that strong head change and those deep body sensations that mid-shelf stuff just can’t ignite anymore.

Visit Weedmaps to find Wedding Cake at a dispensary near you.

Edward Abbey famously said, “A man on foot, on horseback or on a bicycle will see more, feel more, enjoy more in one mile than the motorized tourists can in a hundred miles.” At Uproxx, we have to agree.

By now we all know about the very real physical and mental benefits of nature, but there is nothing quite like getting out into nature on a hiking trail. Being surrounded by forest, desert, mountains, meadows, or water without the constant stream of notifications from our daily lives is purifying in its simplicity and remarkable in its results.

Whether inspired by social media, awareness of health benefits, more flexible schedules of the last few years, or just a desire to take a technology break, there’s no denying that hiking is booming in popularity across the United States. From 2019 to 2020 alone, the percentage of logged hikes on AllTrails was up over 170%. National Parks have seen increased visitation leading to timed entry systems and vehicle reservations, while sales of outdoor gear have steadily increased.

If you’re like many travelers this year, hiking is an activity you want to incorporate into your travels. Here are some of our favorites:

1. THE BEEHIVE LOOP – Acadia National Park – MAINE

WHY IT’S AWESOME:

Acadia is a crown jewel of the National Park system. The legendary park in coastal Maine is consistently in the top 10 most visited major National Parks with over four million visitors in 2021. Acadia is also one of the smallest major parks by land area, encompassing just over 49,000 acres over the most visited Mount Desert Island, part of the less visited Schoodic Peninsula, part of the Isle au Haut as well as 16 other outlying islands. So while this may not be the first park you’d think of for difficult hiking trails – it has its share.

Clocking in at just 1.5 miles – The Beehive Loop is definitely one of Acadia’s best. It’s the shortest trail on this list, but also rated as difficult. While not as deathly (really) as the Precipice Trail in the park, The Beehive is a short but challenging hike with a big payoff.

TRAIL NOTES:

The trail begins across the street from the Sand Beach Parking Lot. The trail begins on the Bowl Trail then splits – you’ll go right for the loop that takes you on the Beehive Trail up to the Beehive Summit and down the Bowl Trail. There are sections of climbing on the Beehive Trail where you will use iron rungs to help scramble and climb up to the top – with panoramic views of the gorgeous Maine coast.

TOTAL DISTANCE: 1.5 miles

ELEVATION GAIN: 450 ft

DIFFICULTY: Hard – Not recommended for small children or those with a fear of heights

BEST TIME TO HIKE:

Summer and fall in Acadia are bucket-list, but you’ll also be met with crowds. I wouldn’t recommend hiking this one in the winter with any snow or ice on the trail, or after rain. The steep drop offs and exposure are no joke.

WHERE TO GRAB A DRINK AFTER:

Head back to Bar Harbor and grab a refreshing local beer at Atlantic Brewing Company.

2. EMERALD LAKE TRAIL – Rocky Mountain National Park – COLORADO

WHY IT’S AWESOME:

Rocky Mountain National Park is a bucket list destination for all levels of outdoor enthusiasts. With over 355 miles of trails in the park – it’s a hiker’s dream. But if I could only choose one hike to take in the park, I’d answer like most people would (it’s popular for a reason y’all) and I’d hike Emerald Lake Trail. It truly has more “bang for your buck” than any other trail on this list, heck – probably any trail I’ve ever hiked.

Clocking in at just 3.2 miles, you’ll hike into a quintessentially Colorado mountain landscape that is jaw-dropping at every turn. Starting at one gorgeous lake and passing by two others on the way to your postcard-perfect destination – it’s probably going to be crowded, but it’s going to be worth it.

TRAIL NOTES:

As mentioned, one of the amazing perks of this trial is its accessibility. Emerald Lakes Trail begins at Bear Lake – which you can easily whip around to add another 0.7 miles to your hike and is totally accessible. From there you’ll hit the Emerald Lake Trail itself which is to the left when you enter into the Bear Lake Trail area from the parking lot. Then you begin to slightly climb up 0.5 miles to Nymph Lake – one of my favorite lakes in the Rockies, and a perfect place to catch your breath if you’re not yet used to the elevation (9,710 ft). From there you’ll climb a bit higher another 0.6 miles or so to the Instagram star – Dream Lake. This is a perfect place to stop for a snack and admire the view. From there you will hike up another 0.7 miles or so – and pass a waterfall – until you reach Emerald Lake.

TOTAL DISTANCE: 3.2 miles

ELEVATION GAIN: 698 ft.

DIFFICULTY: Easy.

BEST TIME TO HIKE:

This is a popular spot all year round (try snowshoeing!) so you’ll need to be prepared to take the park service shuttle if parking is full. Between May 26 and October 22 you’ll also need a timed entry reservation to access the Bear Lake Corridor and the trailhead. These can be reserved here.

WHERE TO GRAB A DRINK AFTER:

Head into Estes Park and visit my favorite spot – Snowy Peaks Winery.

3. DELICATE ARCH – Arches National Park – UTAH

WHY IT’S AWESOME:

If you’ve ever seen a photo of a hike in Utah, it’s likely of Delicate Arch. The iconic natural rock formation that graces the state’s license plates (and pretty much every other Utah-branded item) is legendary for a reason. With over 2,000 documented arches in Arches National Park, this is by far the most well-known, as well as holding the title of largest free-standing arch in the park, with an opening beneath the arch of 46 ft tall by 32 ft wide and an entire rock span reaching 60 ft.

TRAIL NOTES:

This hike, while only 3.2 miles round-trip, can be deceptively strenuous. You’ll be climbing up steep slickrock with virtually no shade on the entire trail, with the National Park Service noting that rangers often have to rescue visitors who underestimate the trail’s difficulty. But if you’re prepared – it’s an incredible sight to see up close.

You’ll start by parking at the Wolfe Ranch lot – which is likely to fill most days. Another option is to begin at the Delicate Arch Viewpoint parking lot – which adds 1 mile each way to the hike. The trail begins with some steep climbing on slickrock until it eventually levels to a more manageable slope. The trail is marked with cairns until you reach a 200-yard rock ledge that may be difficult for someone with a fear of heights. After the ledge, the arch will come into view where you can choose to walk over for photos or sit and admire the view.

TOTAL DISTANCE: 3.2 miles

ELEVATION GAIN: 629 ft.

DIFFICULTY: Moderate.

BEST TIME TO HIKE:

There is almost no shade on this trail, so midday hiking in summer is discouraged. Summer is also going to be extremely crowded. Spring and fall are your best bet, while winter is doable if you’re prepared with the correct equipment for possible snow and ice. Be aware you’ll need a timed entry ticket to access any part of Arches National Park from April 1 to October 31.

WHERE TO GRAB A DRINK AFTER:

Moab is just outside the park and chock full of bars and restaurants. I recommend stopping by Moab Brewery or Thai Bella Moab.

4. SKYLINE TRAIL LOOP – Mount Rainier National Park – WASHINGTON

WHY IT’S AWESOME:

Mount Rainier is not just impressive – it’s imposingly so. To catch a glimpse of the 14,410 ft active volcano is truly a moment where the veil between heaven and earth is at its thinnest. There are plenty of incredible hiking trails in the over 236,000 acre park, but if I had to choose just one, it would undoubtedly be Skyline Trail Loop. The trail begins at the popular Paradise parking area and lives up to its name – and then some.

TRAIL NOTES:

You’ll start your hike in the Paradise Valley from the Paradise parking lot after a gorgeous drive through the park. There are many trails in this area, so you’ll want to pick up a map or have one downloaded. After some time hiking on pavement, you’ll come to a fork and need to decide if you’ll take on the trail clockwise or counterclockwise. Counterclockwise has slightly less elevation gain on the climb up to Panorama Point, but both have the same amazing views.

If you hike clockwise, you’ll hike up the steep trail to Panorama Point, continues along to Stevens-Van Trump Memorial, descend into Paradise Valley, a slight climb to Myrtle Falls then back to where you began.

TOTAL DISTANCE: 5.5 miles

ELEVATION GAIN: 1,700 ft.

DIFFICULTY: Hard.

BEST TIME TO HIKE:

Mount Rainier is known for wildflowers – and mid to late August is going to be prime time – although July and August are both great times to catch wildflowers and waterfalls. Summer, of course, will be more crowded so start your hike as early as possible. You can hike in the winter, just be prepared with poles, spikes and other winter hiking equipment.

WHERE TO GRAB A DRINK AFTER:

I always like to stop at the Longmire Inn, which is a National Park Inn within the park for a drink or a snack.

5. HIGHLINE TRAIL TO GRANITE PARK CHALET — Glacier National Park – MONTANA

WHY IT’S AWESOME:

Glacier National Park is a major bucket list park for all kinds of outdoor enthusiasts – particularly hikers. With over 700 miles of hiking trails over a remarkable 1 million acres of land – the options are endless. With so much land to cover between the seven separate entrances of the park, it can be overwhelming to plan a hiking trip. Highline Trail offers incredible views, but is also right off Going-To-The-Sun Road – the nearly 50 mile road that is registered as a National Historic Landmark, Historic Civil Engineering Landmark and National Historic Place. The road is spectacular and the trail is even better.

TRAIL NOTES:

The trail begins on the Continental Divide, just across from the Logan Pass Visitor Center on Going-To-The-Sun Road. The first 3 miles are fairly level albeit exposed and possibly terrifying once you reach an infamous ledge with hundred-foot drop-offs at around just one-quarter of a mile into the hike. There is a cable to hold onto during this fairly short portion of the hike. Then you’ll have a challenging hike ahead through mostly the Garden Wall portion of Glacier following the Continental Divide through meadows, with incredible views all around.

Although the Highline Trail in its entirety is nearly 24 miles round trip, many people hike the trail to Granite Park Chalet before turning back around. The chalet is only accessible by hiking or on horseback and does accommodate overnight guests – although all rooms are sold out for the 2023 season.

TOTAL DISTANCE: 14.9 miles

ELEVATION GAIN: 2,578

DIFFICULTY: Hard.

BEST TIME TO HIKE:

The best time to hike is between July through September. You have to drive on Going-To-The-Sun Road to reach the trailhead, which generally does not open for the season due to snow until late June and closes again in October. You’ll need to secure a vehicle registration to access the road and four other areas in Glacier between May 26 and September 10 if entering on the West side and from July 1 through September 10 if entering from St. Mary’s.

WHERE TO GRAB A DRINK AFTER:

I love to head down to Lake McDonald Lodge to grab a drink with a view at Lucke’s Lounge.

6. THE NARROWS – Zion National Park – UTAH

WHY IT’S AWESOME:

Zion National Park has exploded in popularity in the last decade with visitation since 2010 nearly doubling – securing the park the title of second most visited major park in the National Park System. With over 20 hikes within Zion, including the social media famous Angel’s Landing, it can be tough to decide which to hike on a short visit. While the landscape is unique and awe-inspiring throughout the park, I think the most unique trail that doesn’t require a permit is hands down The Narrows.

The hike will take you directly through the Virgin River, with over 60% of the hike requiring wading, hiking, and even swimming in the river itself with the incredible canyon walls surrounding you. You can hike The Narrows Bottom Up or Top Down – but Top Down requires a permit – so for this and other reasons most people choose Bottom Up.

TRAIL NOTES:

The trail, as mentioned, is mostly within the Virgin River with most people beginning at the Temple of Sinawava via the Riverside Walk and then walking upstream through the river before turning around – many hikers turn at Orderville Canyon or continue on to Big Springs but you can whenever you feel like it. There is no specific vista or summit to see – it’s all incredible. I would recommend hiking at least the section known as “Wall Street” which is just over three miles into the hike.

Because of the nature of this trail, you’ll need special equipment. Hiking poles, closed-toed shoes, neoprene socks, and a dry bag are all musts, and specialized gear can be rented from many outfitters in Springdale.

TOTAL DISTANCE: 8.9 out and back to Big Springs. 16 miles for the entire hike (with a permit)

ELEVATION GAIN: 695 ft.

DIFFICULTY: Hard

BEST TIME TO HIKE:

Due to temperature, summer and early fall is definitely the best time to hike The Narrows. This is also the season for thunderstorms though and can lead to potentially life-threatening flash flooding. Winter and spring are much colder and less crowded – you’ll need a full-body wetsuit if you’re hiking during this time. The Narrows is also often closed for periods when the snow melt raises the river to over 150 cubic feet per second or when a flash flood watch is enacted. You’ll want to start your hike as early as possible to escape the crowds you’ll find on your way back.

WHERE TO GRAB A DRINK AFTER:

Head into Springdale and grab a beer at Zion Canyon Brew Pub.

7. BRIGHT ANGEL TRAIL TO PLATEAU POINT– Grand Canyon National Park – ARIZONA

WHY IT’S AWESOME:

The Grand Canyon, considered one of the Seven Wonders of the World, is likely on most travelers’ must-visit lists. But despite its popularity, many people who visit don’t actually hike very far into the canyon itself. The 278-mile-long canyon is up to 18 miles wide and over a mile deep, with some of the most incredible views and vistas one can ever witness with their own eyes. But hiking down into a canyon means you’ll have to hike back up later, which can be extremely strenuous for even an experienced hiker.

There are over 100 trails in the park according to AllTrails, but one of the most popular – for good reason – is Bright Angel. This trail gets you below the rim for as short or long of a jaunt as you’d like.

TRAIL NOTES:

Bright Angel Trail starts off directly in the Village at the South Rim just west of Bright Angel Lodge. You’ll begin the descent into the canyon immediately and cross under the first tunnel at just shy of 0.2 miles. You’ll enter a period after the second tunnel (0.75 miles) of steep switchbacks and then will pass a water and rest station at 1.5 miles. There is another water and rest stop at 3 miles and water is available again at Indian Gardens which is at mile 4.5.

In the summer, this is where you’ll need to turn around if you have not already – getting back up can take at least twice as long and once you’re in the canyon it can be difficult to understand how far you’ve gone. In other seasons you can continue on to Plateau Point at mile six.

TOTAL DISTANCE: 12 miles

ELEVATION GAIN: 3,080 ft.

DIFFICULTY: Hard

BEST TIME TO HIKE:

Fall and spring are going to be best for hiking this trail, as summer temps can become dangerous. If hiking in the summer, the National Park Service recommends avoiding the trail between 10am and 4pm and it is not recommended to hike rim to river in one day during this time for this reason. In winter and early spring the upper portions of the trail can be extremely icy.

WHERE TO GRAB A DRINK AFTER: I love to walk the short distance on the South Rim to the classic El Tovar Hotel Lounge to get a drink on the veranda.

8. APPALACHIAN TRAIL – SPANS 14 STATES

WHY IT’S AWESOME:

While not exactly a day hike – or even weeks for that matter – hiking the Appalachian Trail should be on everyone’s list. At least a portion of it, that is. While the entire trail from Georgia to Maine is nearly 2,200 miles and spans over 14 states, that also means portions are easily accessible to the average hiker who doesn’t have five to seven months to complete it. Whether you’re in Georgia, North Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Vermont, New Hampshire, or Maine – look for the AT signage while hiking – I’ve hiked on portions of the trail several times without realizing until I was already there.

And you never know, it might just inspire a thru-hike in the future.

TRAIL NOTES:

It would be impossible to explain a trail that is over 2,000 miles, but I can recommend a great way to experience the trail as a beginner – through portions in and near Shenandoah National Park and Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia. There are 104 miles of the trail in Shenandoah National Park, with elevation gains that generally stay below 1,000 ft. The trail is well maintained and portions are a great option for a day hike.

TOTAL DISTANCE: 2,190 miles

ELEVATION GAIN: 453,750 ft

DIFFICULTY: Hard.

BEST TIME TO HIKE:

Weather is of course going to fluctuate depending on where you’re hiking, so be prepared to do your research and bring anything you’ll need. Late spring and early fall are generally going to be your best bet for a day hike. Thru-hikers generally start in March or April in Georgia, ending around September in Maine.

WHERE TO GRAB A DRINK AFTER:

Hit up a bar or restaurant in one of the over 40 trail communities – towns near the trail that have qualified under the Appalachian Trail Conservatory’s A.T. community program.

Tina Fey and Amy Poehler are like those cool best friends who you can always count on to show up together and make things a little silly, much like a younger version of Steve Martin and Martin Short (without all of the old guy jokes). Anytime the ladies join forces you can guarantee that there will be some hard-hitting jokes and glamorous outfits sandwiched in between some sort of pop culture reference. And now they are taking the proverbial show on the road!

The duo is heading out together for The Restless Leg tour this spring, which will center on the pair and their 30+ year friendship. In a joint statement, the pair said, “If this tour goes right, we can finally end this friendship!” It hasn’t worked out for the Two Martins yet.

The East Coast tour is also being filmed by LiveNation, which means that we might get a Netflix (or Peacock) special sometime soon for any fans unable to make the trek. Beginning in April, the pair will be heading to Washington D.C., Chicago, Boston, and Atlantic City, but not New York City, for some reason.

Fey and Poehler last teamed up in 2021 to host the socially distanced Golden Globes, because that’s something we all had to experience together. The ladies have had a long history of working together other the years, beginning with their reign on Saturday Night Live’s Weekend Update, which has still yet to be topped!

(Via Variety)

You Season 4 isn’t as incendiary (in a few ways) as the show’s previous runs. Actually, the newest round of episodes makes Joe the stalkee more than the stalker, but he is not off the hook. Joe has done more than his fair share of killing over the years, and he’s still very much a bad dude. Star Penn Badgley has been very frank about feeling disturbed by people calling his character sexy despite all of the obsession and mayhem, and he’s now calling out Netflix for fueling that feeling when it comes to Ryan Murphy’s recent Dahmer dramatization starring Evan Peters.

The controversial Dahmer quickly became one of Netflix’s most-watched shows of all time (even eclipsing Bridgerton), which greatly upset the families of Jeffrey Dahmer’s victims. Badgley doesn’t shy away from once again acknowledging that his show plays a seductive game with You, which does skewer Joe but also, as Badgley told Entertainment Tonight (via People), “To be fair, with our show, you’re meant to fall in love with [Joe]. That’s on us.”

However, the Gossip Girl actor continued: “Ted Bundy? That’s on you. Jeffrey Dahmer? That is on — Netflix. That is squarely on the shoulders of Netflix.”

That’s a bold move, given that Badgley stars in a Netflix production, but then again, he did ask viewers to look “inside” for why they love these shows so much. Badgley also recently made clear that he requested to showrunner Sara Gamble whether he could cease filming intimate scenes for the rest of the show’s run. How much longer will You continue? Season 5 hasn’t been announced yet, but give it time.

(Via Entertainment Tonight & People)

Donald Trump and his cronies could be facing an explosive situation later this week when the grand jury report into the former president’s alleged election interference in Georgia is unsealed. While the decision to prosecute the president will be left up to the Fulton County District Attorney, the report could contain damning information about Trump and his cohorts’ alleged efforts into coercing Georgia officials to magically “find votes” following Trump’s loss to Joe Biden in the 2020 election.

The grand jury report is the result of a six-month-long process that began back in June 2022 and colluded in December. The judge overseeing the case felt that unsealing a portion of the report was necessary to the public interest.

“While publication might not be convenient for the pacing of the District Attorney’s investigation, the compelling public interest in these proceedings and the unquestionable value and importance of transparency require their release,” Superior Court Judge Robert C. I. McBurney said ahead of the report’s release. Via The Daily Beast:

The judge ordered the release of the final report’s introduction, conclusion, and a section “in which the special purpose grand jury discusses its concern that some witnesses may have lied under oath during their testimony to the grand jury.”

That detail itself is remarkable, hinting at how those close to Trump may now be scrambling to cover up the way his team in 2020 tried to intimidate Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger to flip ballot numbers, weaponized lawsuits to overturn election results, and recruited Republicans to become fake electors willing to keep him in office by undermining the U.S. Constitution.

As for which of Trump’s cronies is reportedly in legal jeopardy… well, that’s not clear yet, but there have been reports that Rudy Giuliani is particularly exposed. The president’s former attorney was already “concerned” when the grand jury was announced over the summer amidst reports that he lied to legislators.

“Rudy flew too close to the sun, he got too close to Trump, he got burned,” Giuliani’s former aide told CNN at the time. “He knows how the DOJ works. He knows how the FBI works. He knows these are meticulous investigations. I know he’s nervous.”

(Via The Daily Beast)