From most of what you’d see of Rocky Mountain National Park in the summer, you would think that everywhere you turned you would see crowds of people milling here and there looking at the same scenery you are. However, if…
Great Local Park for Hiking – Abraham Lincoln Park
Last weekend we needed an Event. Something beyond the everyday routine that would get us out of the house and doing something together. In other words, it was time to find a new trail to hike that was nearby. While…
Mount Greylock: Middle Earth in Massachusetts?
Think beautiful views…think green mountains all around you…think historic structures…think memorial towers…think J. R. R. Tolkien… Wait…Tolkien, in the middle of mountains and historic structures? Yes, think Tolkien! On top of Mount Greylock in the Berkshires of Massachusetts (you knew…
Maidenhair Falls in a Desert Canyon
Have you ever dreamed of walking through a desert canyon, discovering a stream, and then palm groves, and finally ending at a lovely waterfall? Well, maybe not that exactly, but have you ever dreamed of a hike somewhat similar to…
Garden of Rock Formations – Devil’s Garden
I love hiking. It’s great to get out and stretch your legs, and it’s so rewarding to see a beautiful vista or interesting sight at the end of the trail. However, there are times when it’s nice not to hike,…
Walk through the Giant Sequoias in the Mariposa Grove
So you’ve seen Yosemite Valley and you’re looking for something new. Or else you’re visiting the park during the summer or fall and the famous falls aren’t falling. Whatever the reason, you’re looking for another trail that’s different from other…
Great Views of Devil’s Tower: Red Beds Trail
I’ve always wondered why you’d want to go to Devil’s Tower National Monument. After all, the best views are from a ways away from the tower—like, outside the park—right? You could just drive along the highway and get a great…
Walk Across a Real Earthquake Fault Line at Carrizo Plain!
Carrizo Plain National Monument is fairly new as national monuments go. The park was established in 2001 from land in Southern California that had been a part of the Carrizo Plain Natural Area. When I visited the monument a couple…
‘Round the Rim of Crater Lake
I often write about trails that can be hiked in various parks. However, this week I’d like to take you on a driving tour of Crater Lake—you don’t have to even get out of your vehicle! You’ll enjoy it more…
Straddle the Headwaters of the Mississippi!
What’s your mental image of the Mississippi River? If it’s a huge river filled with paddle boats playing Jazz music, it’s probably similar to most American’s thoughts on the Mighty Mississippi. However, at the headwaters, the “mighty” river is anything…