Trip Moments Recommendations
Odaiba national park
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This is the place I stopped by when I was travelling to Tokyo. I didn't know there was such a wonderful place in Odaiba, and I felt like I went there while watching Fuji TV, but it was a wonderful view with the blue colour of the clear sky, the bridge and the Statue of Liberty. It was a good memory in Tokyo!
I heard that it will be lit up at night, but I could only go during the day, so if I have the opportunity to go next time, I would like to go at night!
Epic hiking in Tunkinskiy National Park
Visiting Tunkinskiy National Park was amazing. I spent two weeks hiking, and it felt like stepping into the wild. There are no marked trails, so you really have to know where you're going and be okay with figuring things out as you go. It’s not easy, but that’s what made it so special. I loved the feeling of being so far from everything, just surrounded by nature.
The park is peaceful, with big forests, rivers, and mountains. But, honestly, you need to be prepared. The routes are tough, and if you don’t know how to navigate well, it can be tricky.
I really enjoyed the challenge, though. It was more than just a hike—it was like being part of nature, not just a tourist passing through. If you’re up for an adventure, I’d say it’s definitely worth it, but just make sure you’re ready for the real wilderness.
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Swiss National Park
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The Swiss National Park in the Engadine Valley is Switzerland’s oldest and only national park, established in 1914. Nestled in the Alps, it spans over 170 square kilometers and offers stunning landscapes, untouched wilderness, and diverse wildlife. Visitors can explore 80 kilometers of hiking trails ranging from easy walks to challenging treks. The park is a haven for nature lovers, with opportunities to spot marmots, ibexes, golden eagles, and red deer. Its strict preservation rules ensure a pristine environment. Though camping and cycling are prohibited, the breathtaking scenery and educational visitor center make it a must-visit for eco-tourists.
Step Into Paradise: Hiking Nelson Lakes National Park
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Nestled—oops, perfectly set—in the heart of New Zealand’s South Island, Nelson Lakes National Park is a dreamscape for hikers. Picture this: glistening alpine lakes, towering mountain peaks, and lush beech forests teeming with birdsong. This is where adventure meets tranquility.
At the heart of it all lies Lake Rotoiti, where trails cater to all levels. Beginners will love the Honeydew Walk, an easy loop that reveals a rich tapestry of native flora and fauna. For those craving a challenge, the Routeburn Track delivers breathtaking panoramas, taking you high above the treeline.
The real magic? The park’s serenity. Even on its busiest days, you’ll feel a sense of solitude as you wander through its pristine wilderness. Keep an eye out for cheeky kea, the world’s only alpine parrots, and be enchanted by glowworms lighting up the trails at dusk.
Whether you’re looking for a soul-soothing escape or a heart-pounding adventure, Nelson Lakes National Park is a haven of natural beauty. Lace up your boots, pack some snacks, and get ready to hike through one of New Zealand’s most stunning treasures. You’ll leave with sore legs, a full heart, and memories that last a lifetime.
Sundown Spectacle: The Grand Finale at the Grand Canyon
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Watching the sunset at Grand Canyon National Park isn’t just an event—it’s a full-on performance, and nature is the star. As the sun dips lower, the canyon transforms into a kaleidoscope of colors, with fiery reds, warm oranges, and soft purples painting the cliffs. It’s like the universe decided to flex its artistic skills, and you get a front-row seat.
The South Rim is the go-to spot for sunset magic. Hopi Point is a favorite, offering panoramic views that will make your camera work overtime. Mather Point is another classic, but be prepared to share the moment with a crowd of sunset enthusiasts. Pro tip: Get there early, stake out your spot, and bring snacks. Watching a sunset without trail mix is practically a crime.
As the light fades, the canyon seems to deepen, its shadows stretching like lazy cats. The sky shifts from vibrant hues to a tranquil navy blue, and the first stars begin to twinkle. It’s a quiet, almost sacred moment—until someone breaks it with, “Wow, that was epic!”
Hoodoo You Think You Are? A Bryce Canyon Adventure!
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Visiting Bryce Canyon National Park is like stepping onto another planet, but with fewer aliens and more spectacular rock formations. The park’s famous hoodoos—those funky, colorful spires—look like nature’s attempt at abstract art. These towering sandstone sculptures glow in shades of red, orange, and pink, especially at sunrise, making you wonder if you accidentally walked into a postcard.
Start with Sunrise Point (or Sunset Point, if you’re not a morning person), where the views will knock your hiking boots off. The Rim Trail offers a gentle walk along the edge, but for a closer look, dive into the canyon via the Navajo Loop. It’s a mix of “wow, this is gorgeous” and “wow, I should’ve done more cardio.” Wall Street, the narrow canyon section, is a highlight—just don’t get too distracted by the towering cliffs, or you’ll trip over your own feet.
In winter, the hoodoos get a dusting of snow, looking like giant frosted cupcakes. And if you stay after dark, the stargazing is out of this world. Bryce Canyon’s night skies are so clear, you’ll start naming constellations like a pro.
Whether you’re here for the views, the trails, or the hoodoo puns, Bryce Canyon delivers magic at every turn.
Trail Mix and Epic Views: Strolling Through Yosemite
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Walking in Yosemite National Park is like starring in your own nature documentary, but with fewer cameras and more snack breaks. This iconic park is a hiker’s paradise, offering everything from gentle meadows to “why-did-I-think-this-was-a-good-idea” inclines. Wherever you step, towering granite cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and ancient sequoias serve as your backdrop. Nature flexes hard here.
Start with Yosemite Valley, where El Capitan and Half Dome loom like giant guardians. You’ll feel tiny, and that’s before spotting a rock climber halfway up El Capitan’s sheer face. (Don’t try it; walking is adventurous enough.) For something serene, head to Mirror Lake—if it’s full, the reflections are stunning. If it’s dry, it’s still a great spot to contemplate life or eat trail mix.
For waterfall fans, Bridalveil Fall or Vernal Fall trails are must-dos. Just be ready to get misted—Yosemite’s way of saying “stay cool.” And if you’re tackling the Mist Trail, pack snacks and your courage. The views are worth every step, even if your calves scream otherwise.
In Yosemite, every path feels like a masterpiece. Just remember to keep an eye out for bears and always leave the squirrels alone. They’re cute, but they’ll steal your granola.
Yellowstone: Where Winter Laughs at Your Thermals!
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Winter in Yellowstone is like nature’s way of showing off. The geysers blow hotter, the bison look fluffier, and the tourists are fewer (because, let’s face it, most sane people are hiding indoors). Stepping into the park in December feels like entering Narnia, but instead of a talking lion, you get a grumpy elk giving you side-eye.
The geysers are spectacular in winter, shooting steam into icy air like nature’s hot tub gone rogue. Old Faithful performs on cue, but the real drama is watching people try to avoid slipping on the icy boardwalks. (Pro tip: penguin waddling works better than grace.)
Wildlife spotting is a winter highlight. Bison roam with snow piled on their shaggy coats, looking like they’ve just come from a powdered donut convention. Wolves? Majestic. Bald eagles? Iconic. Coyotes? Basically dogs with better cold-weather survival skills.
But be warned: Yellowstone in winter is COLD. Like, “lose feeling in your nose” cold. Layer up and bring snacks, because once you’ve seen one frozen waterfall, you’ll need a granola bar to keep up the enthusiasm for the next.
So, brave the chill, embrace the frostbite, and remember: Yellowstone in winter is an icy adventure worth every shiver!
Such a colorful Momiji at HIBIYA
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As autumn deepens, more and more people visit Hibiya Park, where you can enjoy the beautiful autumn leaves while staying in the city centre, and the best time to see them in 2024 is also attracting attention.
There are many highlights in the park, such as ginkgo trees and ponds with autumn leaves. Knowing the characteristics of each, such as a cloud-shaped pond and a historic ginkgo tree, it will be more exciting.
Stourhead: A Timeless National Trust Treasure in Wiltshire🎄✨
Stourhead, a National Trust property in Wiltshire, is often described as a living work of art, and it’s easy to see why. Designed in the 18th century by Henry Hoare II, its world-famous landscape garden is a masterpiece of harmony and elegance, offering a journey through history, nature, and beauty.
The highlight of any visit is the iconic lake at the garden’s heart, encircled by meandering paths that lead to classical temples, grottos, and picturesque viewpoints. The Pantheon, Temple of Apollo, and Palladian Bridge reflect beautifully in the water, creating postcard-perfect scenes at every turn. Autumn is particularly magical, with fiery foliage mirrored in the lake, while spring and summer bring lush greenery and colorful blooms.
Stourhead House adds another layer of intrigue, showcasing stunning interiors and a rich history tied to the Hoare family. The estate’s wider grounds also offer woodland walks and peaceful escapes, making it ideal for families and adventurers alike.
Don’t miss the café for a traditional cream tea or a hearty lunch made with locally sourced ingredients. Whether you’re a garden enthusiast, history lover, or simply seeking tranquility, Stourhead is a timeless destination that never fails to captivate.
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It is so called Paradise
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Lago di Braies located on the northern part of Italy and it is so closed to the border of Austria and Germany. That region, it is mainly used German and Italian languages. Lake Braies is the national park and you can enjoy to ride the boat 🛶 along the lake and it could takes 30 mins. It is not a big lake so that we decided to walk around the lake in order to get different angles of the view. It is so amazing experience with the beautiful nature and good breeze. For us, it took 1:30hr to finish to explore around the lake. There are also hotels next to the lakes and restaurants.
From the Milan with the car, it took 4.5 hrs driving.
Blooming Beauty: Spring Adventure in Anza-Borrego Desert
Visiting Anza-Borrego Desert State Park in spring was an unforgettable experience. The desert was in full bloom, and the flowers were everywhere—vibrant colors scattered across the landscape. I could not even imagine that the desert can be so colorful and vivid with life.
A tip: bring plenty of water and sunscreen. The desert heat can be intense, even in spring, and there’s little shade on some trails.
One of my favorite moments was just sitting quietly and watching the desert come alive. The flowers, the birds, and the quiet made my day!
#nationalparks #usa #california
Canyon de Sumidero: one of the most scenic boat rides
A boat tour at Sumidero Canyon in Chipas is absolutely a must, and it was amazing! The canyon walls are HUGE, and we got so close to them on the boat. There are waterfalls and we even saw crocodile and lots of birds. The guide told us a lot of interesting stuff about the place, which made it even better.
A couple of things to keep in mind: bring sunscreen, a hat, and something to protect your phone or camera because it’s easy to get splashed. It’s also better to go early before it gets too hot or crowded. The ride can be a little bumpy, but it’s totally worth it.
#nationalparks #mexico #chiapas
Swimming by the icebergs
The boat tour in Parque Nacional Alberto de Agostini was amazing. We cruised through the fjords with huge glaciers and tall mountains all around us. The boat got close to the glaciers, and it was crazy to see them up close with icebergs floating in the water.
It was warm inside of the boat and it was possible to see glaciers through the windows. however, the best view was from outside, and it was cold there! So surely dress in layers, bring gloves and warm hat.
I think that the boat is the best way to see the area. And sailing next to icebergs is just an awesome experience on its own.
#nationalparks #argentina #patagonia
Cragside: A National Trust Marvel in Northumberland ✨🌼
Cragside, nestled in the rolling hills of Northumberland, is a treasure trove of history, innovation, and natural beauty. Once the home of Victorian inventor and industrialist Lord Armstrong, this National Trust property offers visitors a unique blend of engineering marvels and breathtaking landscapes.
The house itself is a masterpiece, known as the world’s first to be powered by hydroelectricity. Inside, you’ll find an intriguing mix of opulent interiors and fascinating gadgets that showcase Armstrong’s inventive genius. Highlights include the original hydro-powered kitchen spit and stunning stained glass windows.
Outside, Cragside’s 1,000-acre estate is a haven for explorers. The formal gardens are beautifully maintained, while the rock garden, with
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Sheffield Park: A National Trust Gem in East Sussex 🎄
Sheffield Park, a stunning National Trust property in East Sussex, is a paradise for nature lovers and garden enthusiasts. Renowned for its landscaped gardens and picturesque lakes, it offers a tranquil escape into one of the most beautifully designed outdoor spaces in England.
The gardens, originally designed by Capability Brown and later refined by Humphry Repton, are a masterpiece of landscape artistry. Visitors are treated to a symphony of color and texture year-round. In autumn, the fiery reds, oranges, and yellows of the Japanese maples create a breathtaking spectacle, while spring and summer bring vibrant displays of rhododendrons, azaleas, and bluebells.
The park’s four interconnected lakes serve as the centerpiece, their still waters perfectly reflecting the surrounding trees and skies. Meandering paths lead you through hidden glades, over charming bridges, and alongside waterfalls, offering endless opportunities for exploration and relaxation.
Families will appreciate the picnic areas and children’s trails, while history buffs can learn about the estate’s rich heritage, including its wartime role. A visit isn’t complete without stopping by the tearoom for a slice of cake and a hot drink.
Sheffield Park is more than a garden; it’s an immersive experience of beauty, history, and serenity, making it a must-visit destination for all.
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Visit the world's highest Tantric Buddhist monastery.
Tengboche Monastery is located in Eastern Nepal, near the Everest trekking route. It is a Tantric Buddhist monastery that many visitors visit to pray before starting their journey to conquer Everest Base Camp.
Buddhism entered the Khumbu Valley, where Tengboche Monastery is located, about 350 years ago. Ancient Tibetan manuscripts speak of a lama named Sangwa Dorje, who possessed great clairvoyance and spiritual knowledge. He predicted the appearance of a monastery near Tengboche Village – where he flew into a deep meditative state and left an imprint on a rock (you can see the imprint at the temple entrance).
The spiritual master Ngawang Tenzin Norbu, the fifth reincarnation of Sangwa Dorje, founded the monastery in 1916.
The main building of Tengboche Monastery is the Dohang – a two-story ceremonial hall with a giant statue of Buddha Shakyamuni. Next are the statues of Manjushri (the Bodhisattva of wisdom) and Maitreya (the Bodhisattva who will be reborn among humans in the future and become a Buddha, and whose appearance will mark the beginning of the golden age). Another important relic of the monastery is the handwritten texts of Kanjur, the teachings of the Buddha, translated into classical Tibetan.
Top 3 Reasons You Need to Visit Kings Canyon National Park
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Are you ready to step into a world of jaw-dropping landscapes and giant trees? Well, buckle up, because Kings Canyon National Park is a place where nature shows off in a big way! Here are the top 3 must-see spots in the park that will make you want to cancel all your plans and go straight to the mountains.
1. General Grant Tree – The “Tree-zilla” of Sequoias
First stop: General Grant Tree, the world’s second-largest sequoia. At over 267 feet tall, this tree is like the King Kong of trees. Standing next to it, you’ll feel like an ant in comparison—but a really amazed and slightly intimidated ant. The Grant Grove is home to other giant trees, but this one? It’s a total showstopper. It’s so big, it might actually make you question your life choices (in a good way, of course).
2. Kings Canyon – The Grand Canyon’s Cooler Cousin
Think the Grand Canyon is the only canyon that deserves your attention? Think again! Kings Canyon will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a postcard—and you’re definitely going to want to take a few pictures. The Kings Canyon Scenic Byway offers insane views as it winds down into the canyon, complete with roaring waterfalls and towering cliffs. You can’t miss it—unless you really don’t like looking at breathtaking vistas, but who doesn’t?
3. Mist Falls – The Hike That’s Worth the Sweat
If you like a little exercise with your jaw-dropping beauty, Mist Falls is calling your name. This trail leads to a waterfall that’s just the right mix of “Whoa!” and “Phew, I did it!” The hike is moderately challenging, but the payoff is worth every step. You’ll be rewarded with a stunning waterfall, mist in the air, and the sense of accomplishment you’ll need to Instagram.
So, if you’re ready to be amazed by giant trees, stunning canyons, and waterfalls that will make your heart sing, Kings Canyon National Park is the place to be. Go ahead—check it out and let nature do the rest!
A Guide to Kings Canyon National Park, USA
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Kings Canyon National Park, located in the heart of California’s Sierra Nevada, is one of the most stunning natural wonders in the United States. Known for its dramatic landscapes, towering peaks, and deep canyons, this park offers a perfect blend of rugged beauty and outdoor adventure. Here’s your guide to exploring this majestic park.
1. Explore the Kings Canyon
The park’s namesake, Kings Canyon, is a spectacular sight. Carved by glaciers over millions of years, the canyon features towering granite cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and the Kings River winding through its floor. The Kings Canyon Scenic Byway is one of the best ways to experience its grandeur, offering sweeping views as you drive along the river and into the canyon’s depths.
2. Visit General Grant Tree
One of the highlights of Kings Canyon is the General Grant Tree, the world’s second-largest sequoia tree. This giant stands over 267 feet tall and is located in the Grant Grove area. It’s an awe-inspiring sight, and it’s easy to visit via a short, accessible walk. The surrounding grove also features other ancient sequoias, making it a must-see destination in the park.
3. Hiking and Adventure
For avid hikers, Kings Canyon offers miles of trails, including some of the best in California. The Mist Falls Trail is a popular hike that leads to a stunning waterfall, while the Rae Lakes Loop provides an unforgettable backcountry adventure. With diverse landscapes ranging from alpine lakes to lush meadows, there’s a trail for every skill level.
4. Camping in the Wilderness
Kings Canyon offers several campgrounds, from the more developed Azalea Campground to the backcountry sites that allow you to fully immerse yourself in nature. Camping in the park is an ideal way to experience the wilderness, especially if you want to catch a sunrise over the canyon or sleep under the stars.
5. Wildlife and Natural Beauty
Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the abundance of animals, including black bears, mule deer, and a variety of bird species. The park also boasts rich plant life, from dense forests of pine trees to alpine meadows adorned with wildflowers in the summer.
Whether you’re exploring deep canyons, hiking through ancient forests, or marveling at the majesty of the sequoias, Kings Canyon National Park is an unforgettable destination for outdoor lovers. It’s a perfect place to reconnect with nature and experience the wild beauty of the Sierra Nevada.
Three Compelling Reasons to Visit Yosemite National Park
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1. Unmatched Natural Beauty
Yosemite National Park is renowned worldwide for its exceptional landscapes, showcasing some of the most striking natural features on Earth. Iconic granite monoliths like El Capitan and Half Dome stand as monumental symbols of the park’s grandeur. The park is also home to a variety of awe-inspiring waterfalls, such as Yosemite Falls and Bridalveil Fall, which reach their peak flow in the spring, offering visitors a spectacle of water and mist against the backdrop of towering cliffs. Whether from the valley floor or the higher elevations, the park provides unparalleled vistas that captivate all who enter.
2. Diverse Opportunities for Outdoor Recreation
Yosemite offers a broad spectrum of outdoor activities that cater to both seasoned adventurers and those seeking a more leisurely experience. The park boasts an extensive network of hiking trails, ranging from simple walks to challenging ascents like the demanding Half Dome hike. Climbers from across the globe come to test their skills on El Capitan, one of the most revered rock faces in the world. For those preferring gentler pursuits, Yosemite Valley offers opportunities for picnicking, biking, and birdwatching. In winter, the park becomes a serene retreat for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and ice skating, ensuring year-round appeal.
3. A Sanctuary for Reflection and Reconnection
Yosemite National Park provides a rare opportunity to disconnect from the pressures of modern life and reconnect with nature. The park’s diverse ecosystems—from the ancient Mariposa Grove of giant sequoias to the tranquil alpine meadows of Tuolumne Meadows—invite visitors to pause, reflect, and appreciate the natural world in its purest form. With limited cell service and a protected wilderness atmosphere, Yosemite encourages visitors to experience the profound peace that arises from immersion in such an awe-inspiring environment.
For those seeking an experience that combines profound natural beauty, a wealth of outdoor activities, and a place for personal reflection, Yosemite National Park is an essential destination.
A Guide to Chasing Waterfalls in Yosemite National Park
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Yosemite National Park is a dream destination for waterfall lovers, offering a variety of stunning cascades, especially during spring’s snowmelt season. From easy strolls to challenging hikes, here’s your guide to experiencing Yosemite’s most iconic waterfalls.
Yosemite Falls
Start with the star of the show—Yosemite Falls. At 2,425 feet, it’s one of the tallest waterfalls in North America. A quick walk leads to the lower falls viewpoint, perfect for photos. For a challenge, take the all-day hike to the top for breathtaking views of the valley below.
Bridalveil Fall
This 620-foot beauty is one of the first waterfalls you’ll see when entering Yosemite Valley. A short, easy trail takes you to its base, where mist and rainbows create a magical experience.
Vernal Fall & Nevada Fall
For adventurers, the Mist Trail is a must. Climb alongside Vernal Fall, where you’ll feel its refreshing spray, then continue to the larger Nevada Fall. The hike is steep but worth the effort for up-close views of these powerful cascades.
Hidden Gems
Escape the crowds by exploring waterfalls in Yosemite’s high country. Glen Aulin Falls and other cascades near Tuolumne Meadows offer a quieter, more serene experience.
Tips for Waterfall Chasing
• Visit in spring for peak flow.
• Wear waterproof gear—many trails get misty!
• Start hikes early to beat the crowds.
With its incredible variety of waterfalls, Yosemite promises an unforgettable adventure filled with beauty, excitement, and awe.
Chasing Waterfalls in Yosemite: A Journey Through Cascading Beauty
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Yosemite National Park is a waterfall chaser’s paradise, boasting some of the most spectacular cascades in the world. From thundering giants to delicate veils, Yosemite’s waterfalls transform the park into a wonderland of rushing water, particularly in spring when the snowmelt is at its peak.
Start your adventure with Yosemite Falls, the park’s crown jewel and one of the tallest waterfalls in North America. Composed of three tiers, it plunges a jaw-dropping 2,425 feet. A short, easy hike leads to its base, while the more adventurous can tackle the all-day trek to the top for unparalleled views.
Next, head to Bridalveil Fall, one of the first waterfalls you’ll see upon entering Yosemite Valley. Its mist creates rainbows on sunny days, and the short trail to its base makes it an accessible stop for all visitors.
For a more adventurous experience, take the Mist Trail to Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall. The climb is steep but rewards you with incredible close-up views of the powerful falls and refreshing mist on warmer days. Be prepared to get a little wet—it’s part of the fun!
In the quieter high country, Tuolumne Meadows offers hidden gems like Glen Aulin Falls, perfect for those seeking serenity away from the crowds.
With each waterfall offering its own unique charm, chasing them through Yosemite is an unforgettable experience that highlights the park’s raw, untamed beauty. Don’t forget your camera—you’ll want to capture every drop!
A day out in the sun 🌞
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A day exploring Great Basin National Park is a journey into one of America’s hidden treasures. Nestled in eastern Nevada, this remote park is a haven of dramatic landscapes, ancient forests, and captivating geology.
Start your adventure with a morning hike on the Bristlecone Pine Trail. The crisp mountain air and sweeping alpine views lead you to the park’s famous bristlecone pines—some of the oldest living trees on Earth, standing resilient for over 4,000 years. Their gnarled, weathered trunks are a testament to nature’s endurance.
From there, head to Lehman Caves, an underground marvel filled with intricate limestone formations like stalactites, stalagmites, and rare shields. Guided tours reveal the cave’s history and showcase its eerie beauty. Walking through its cool, dark chambers feels like stepping into another world.
After lunch, drive the Wheeler Peak Scenic Road. This winding route ascends to over 10,000 feet, offering stunning views of desert valleys and rugged peaks. Stop at Mather Overlook for a panoramic vista that stretches for miles.
End your day with a stargazing session. Designated as an International Dark Sky Park, Great Basin offers some of the clearest night skies in the country. Under a canopy of countless stars, you’ll feel a profound connection to the universe.
Great Basin’s blend of ancient history, striking landscapes, and serene isolation makes it a truly unforgettable experience.
A fun day in Mesa Verde
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A day exploring Mesa Verde National Park is an unforgettable mix of adventure, history, and jaw-dropping scenery. Tucked in southwestern Colorado, this park is like stepping into a time machine, taking you back to when the Ancestral Puebloans built intricate homes high in the cliffs over 700 years ago.
The adventure kicks off with a drive up the Mesa Top Loop Road, where you’re treated to sweeping views of mesas and canyons that stretch for miles. Your first stop? Cliff Palace. As the largest cliff dwelling in North America, it’s a masterpiece of ancient engineering. Join a guided tour, climb wooden ladders, and imagine life here—cooking, storytelling, and thriving in a seemingly impossible spot.
Next, wander through the Chapin Mesa Archaeological Museum, packed with pottery, tools, and artifacts that bring the Puebloan world to life. Feeling adventurous? Hike the Petroglyph Point Trail, where you’ll spot ancient rock carvings and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
As the day wraps up, catch the sunset. Watching the cliffs light up in fiery oranges and reds feels almost magical—a perfect end to a day of exploring. Whether you’re into history, nature, or just epic Instagram shots, Mesa Verde is pure magic. It’s not just a trip to a national park—it’s a journey back in time.
It’s always a good day exploring in Mesa Verde National Park
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A day exploring Mesa Verde National Park is a journey into the heart of ancient history and natural beauty. Located in southwestern Colorado, the park is renowned for its well-preserved Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings, offering visitors a unique glimpse into a civilization that thrived over 700 years ago.
The day begins with a scenic drive up the winding Mesa Top Loop Road, where panoramic views of rugged canyons and expansive mesas set the tone for adventure. Stops along the way include archaeological sites like the Cliff Palace, the largest cliff dwelling in North America. Guided tours allow you to climb ladders and crawl through ancient passageways, immersing yourself in the lives of the people who once called these structures home.
Next, the Chapin Mesa Archaeological Museum provides fascinating exhibits on the tools, pottery, and daily lives of the Ancestral Puebloans. Hiking trails like the Petroglyph Point Trail offer an up-close look at rock art etched into the cliffs, providing insight into the spiritual and cultural practices of the past.
As the day winds down, the sunset paints the sandstone cliffs in hues of gold and orange, offering a perfect end to the adventure. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, nature lover, or photographer, Mesa Verde captivates with its blend of cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes. Exploring this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a reminder of humanity’s ingenuity and deep connection to the land.
Ruins next to white sand beach
I really enjoyed my visit to Parque Nacional Tulum. The ruins were stunning, especially with the ocean right next to them. I spent a couple of hours just walking around on my own pace.
Additional bonus to the ruins and the beach was local wildlife. Lots of coatis and iguanas all around the archeological site.
One tip is to go early in the day. It gets super hot and crowded later on. I brought sunscreen, but a hat would’ve been a good idea too. The water below the cliffs was so clear, and I jumped in to cool off. It felt amazing.
#nationalparks #mexico #tulum
Epic views of Monument Valley
Visiting Monument Valley was an unforgettable experience! The landscape is like nothing else—huge, red rock formations stretching for miles. What I really loved was how peaceful it was. There were barely any people around, so it felt like I had the place to myself.
Having a car is definitely necessary to explore, since the valley is spread out. I drove around the famous formations, and it was like stepping into a Western movie.
One thing to note is the weather can change quickly, so be prepared. Overall, it was an amazing trip, and I can’t wait to go back someday!
#northamericatrip #nationalparks #usa
Freezing but beautiful Mountain Washington
Visiting Mount Washington was such a cool experience! The drive up was amazing, especially in the fall with all the colorful trees. The views were beautiful all the way up, but as I got higher, it got really cold. By the time I was close to the top, everything was frozen, and I literally drove into a cloud. I couldn’t see anything, but it was kind of fun in a weird way.
Even though the weather wasn’t great up top, the whole experience was totally worth it. It felt like a real adventure. One thing I’d recommend is to dress warm, even if it’s nice at the bottom. The weather changes fast up there. Despite the cold, I really enjoyed it and would do it again!
#northamericatrip #nationalparks #usa #newhampshire
Focus on: Canyon de Sumidero, gem of Chiapas
Cañón del Sumidero is an extremely beautiful place. Most people think the boat tour is the only thing worth doing, but surprisingly, there’s a lot more to explore.
If you have a car, then take a winding road that goes up to a few viewpoints, and they offer some of the most gorgeous views of the canyon.
I loved the drive up, and each viewpoint had a different angle of the canyon, making it feel like I was seeing something new at every stop. The views were absolutely breathtaking—huge cliffs, lush greenery, and the river winding below. Just a few more cars were there, so it was not crowded at all.
A tip: there are no stores up the hill, so buy water and snacks before you start this drive up.
#nationalparks #mexico #chiapas
Fairy tale forest in Mexico, no kidding!
I had no idea that butterflies migrate! But apparently some do! There is a Monarch butterfly sanctuary in Michoacan, about 5 hours drive from Mexico city. I went in March and butterflies were already awake and flying around everywhere, getting ready to go back north to USA.
I couldn’t stop smiling the whole time, seriously, I felt like a little girl in a fairy tale with all the hundreds of butterflies flying around me.
The hike up to the sanctuary was a bit tough, but totally worth it once you get there. The view is amazing, it is basically a forest with lots and lots of beautiful that are everywhere.
A tip: wear good shoes because the ground can be slippery. Also, try to go early to avoid crowds. And bring water! Once you start to hike up - there is no places to buy anything.
#nationalparks #mexico