As travelers look ahead to another season of exploration across the American West, Backland Luxury Nature Resort is welcoming guests back for its 2026 season. Nestled within Northern Arizona’s forests, the eco-luxury retreat offers an escape where mountain views, star-filled skies, and immersive outdoor experiences take center stage. Located just 20 minutes outside Williams, Backland spans 160 acres at an elevation of 7,000 feet, creating a setting where towering pines, open meadows, and expansive skies define the experience.
The resort offers an intimate collection of ten luxury glamping tents designed to immerse guests in nature without sacrificing comfort. Inside, soaring 16-foot skylights allow visitors to drift off beneath the stars and wake to unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape.
Guests can savor chef-crafted meals served in a glass-walled restaurant that frames the natural beauty outside. Whether fueling up before a day of exploring or lingering over dinner as the sun dips below the treetops, the experience blends cuisine with views. The reopening also arrives at a moment when several major travel trends are shaping how Americans are planning their getaways in 2026.
For many, the return of the classic road trip is leading them back to historic routes and nostalgic destinations. That includes nearby U.S. Route 66, which runs directly through the heart of Williams. Known as the “Mother Road,” the iconic highway remains a beloved symbol of Americana, and the town’s historic downtown offers a charming step back in time.
Another factor inspiring travel this year is the nation’s 250th anniversary celebration. The United States Semiquincentennial is encouraging visitors to rediscover the country’s natural and cultural landmarks, particularly its national parks. The Grand Canyon is participating in the Outdoors250 program, a statewide initiative launched in partnership with Arizona State Parks, the Secretary of State, and the Arizona America250 Commission to celebrate 250 years of American history through outdoor engagement.
Guests can spend the day hiking scenic trails, visiting national parks, or taking in the wide-open beauty of Northern Arizona before returning to the quiet comfort of the resort. Far from the glow of city lights, Backland’s location deep within the forest makes it an exceptional destination for stargazing. Guests can gaze up at the Milky Way through the tents’ skylights or explore the night sky using the resort’s telescope, revealing constellations, planets, and distant galaxies rarely visible in more populated areas.
The property’s commitment to sustainability also plays a key role in its design. Built with a focus on preserving the surrounding environment, the resort maintains a light footprint across the landscape. Even at full build-out, approximately 95 percent of the land will remain open space, ensuring the forest and wildlife habitat remain largely untouched.
This balance between conservation and comfort reflects a growing travel trend often described as “minimal impact, maximum comfort,” a philosophy that resonates with visitors seeking meaningful outdoor experiences without compromising on thoughtful amenities. With its secluded setting, eco-conscious approach, and proximity to both historic and natural landmarks, Backland Luxury Nature Resort offers a refreshing reminder of the simple pleasures of the outdoors. Learn more at travelbackland.com.
