North America

Giraffes at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park

November 4, 2017 by Exploretraveler.com Leave a Comment

Giraffes at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park

Giraffes have left Africa and have arrived at the San Diego Zoo. There is only one specie of giraffes, though there are nine sub-species. The only difference is where they come from in Africa and slight variations in color patterns. The Uganda Giraffe is the only endangered sub-species. It is also the main specie at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park.

Even though the Uganda giraffe is the only endangered giraffe subspecies, it is flourishing at the zoo. It only survives in a very small, totally isolated population in Kenya and Uganda. Their numbers are dwindling each year in their native East Africa. Yet at the Safari Park, there has been over 100 births so far in our large African Plains habitat! The Uganda Giraffes are happy campers at the zoo!

Giraffes are the tallest land animal on the face of the earth. How would you like to have a house with a giraffe for a neighbor? They can look into your window on the second floor. If fact, it is easy work! They have no need to stand on their toes. They are so tall that their gaze is at window level on the second floor. Now that is tall! Look at those legs; they must eat a lot.

What would it take to keep your new friend happy and with a full stomach? It will take pounds of leaves to fill that tummy! The average giraffes will often eat up to 75 pounds of leaves in a single day. They love the Acacia Tree. It is found in their native Uganda. Not even the thorns on the Acacia Tree will slow down a hungry giraffe. They have a very long tongue that just reaches around those pesky thorns. How ingenious is the giraffe!

Are you looking for adventure in Southern California? How about spending the day at the zoo? San Diego Zoo Safari Park is fun and educational for all. There are many ways to view the giraffes. You can watch all the activities of the giraffes from the African Plains Overlook. It is a view point where you can see it all. You can also elect to take an Africa Tram tour. Just think about what you will see from way up over the African Plains Park. Watch them as they eat and play. You may even see a mother with her baby. What fun is the tram tour! And for those who want to get even closer, there is a Caravan Safari. Here you get really up close. You can actually feed your new friends. While this little fellow is looking for his new best friend, Gloria to come see him……maybe it is time for you to become his next best friend. The giraffe is sociable and fun. Don’t miss out on all the adventure available at the San Diego Zoo.

What are you waiting for? It is time to gather the family and hit the road. Your new best friend is waiting!

ExploreTraveler has been creating travel articles, books, videos, and podcasts for several years now. It is our intention to bring our older material for others here to enjoy here, and to create new material here as well. We invite you to click on our links to the original content, and to also follow us there as well.

This post was originally published on November 1, 2015 at:

https://exploretraveler.com/giraffes-at-the-san-diego-zoo-safari-park/

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Lake Pend Oreille Idaho USA

October 11, 2017 by Exploretraveler.com Leave a Comment

Lake Pend Oreille Idaho USA

Lake Pend Oreille is Idaho’s most magnificent lake. It is the largest lake in the state of Idaho. It has 111 miles of Shoreline. This is an amazing amount of space to enjoy this beautiful treasure. It is located in the Northern Pan Handle of Idaho and many towns grace it’s shores. Almost every town has a treasured adventure on Lake Pend Oreille. It has the loose shape of a question mark with no dot! This amazing lake looks endless from the shore. All you can see is lake, beautiful blue sky, and majestic mountains. The lake is the deepest lake in the state. It is the 5th deepest in the world. In fact, even the Navy comes to Lake Pend Oreille to test their submarines. Now that is amazing!

Among the amazing facts surrounding Lake Pend Oreille is the story of the Lake Monster. There have been many sightings over the years. He seems to get bigger and bigger. Some people think it is perhaps a giant Sturgeon. Sturgeon have been known to grow over 12 feet long. How would you like to have him on your hook? Now that would be a fish story! No matter what he may turn out to be, he is loved by most. He has been given the loving name of ” Pend Oreille Paddler.”

One of the many adventures on the lake is to take a Kayak out for the day. Explore the miles of shoreline. Some people have even paddled completely around the lake. Now that is ambitious! It was once estimated that it took 118,539 strokes with the paddle to go completely around the lake at the shoreline. If you are ambitious, grab your sleeping bag and tent and let the exploration begin. The last recorded group spent the week paddling this amazing shoreline. Now that is true adventure travel!

Exploring Lake Pend Oreille by foot is fantastic. There are many well marked trails, as well as an amazing 2 mile walk over the Pedestrian Bridge. Can you imagine what you will see? This is perhaps one of the most popular lake walks from Sandpoint. It begins at the U.S. Highway 95 south entrance to Sandpoint and goes parallel to the highway bridge for car and truck traffic. It is a pleasant 2 mile walk. Bikers also enjoy an excellent bike ride over the bridge.Many bikers continue on down Bottle Bay Road. This takes them around the south side of the lake. It is always a nice day for adventure, at Lake Pend Oreille.There are many trails to enjoy around Lake Pend Oreille. The newest one is Pend Oreille Bay Trail 1. This is a marvelous trail to hike or bike. The trail connects all the many lake communities around the lake. Spend the day or spend the week, adventure is waiting on the Pend Oreille Bay Trail. This is the first public waterfront trail along the shores of Lake Pend Oreille. Pend Oreille Bay Trail links the communities of Sandpoint, Ponderay, Kootenai, and many others.

If you like adventure, see Lake Pend Oreille from a boat. Whether you bring your boat or rent one at one of the many marinas, adventure is waiting. There are many places where you can rent power boats, sail boats, Kayaks, and more. There is nothing like watching the wildlife from the advantage of a boat. Explore the lake by boat and see the wide variety of wildlife that calls this lake and it’s shores home.

However you decide to explore Lake Pend Oreille, you will be in for first class adventure. Watch a mother bear fish for her cub, or an Osprey go fishing on the lake! Watch the trees as you go by, you may spot a nesting Bald Eagle. The possibilities are endless! There are many places to camp along the shore of the lake. In the many lake towns you will find nice accommodations and good places to eat. Wherever you go, this lake offers adventure. So relax, enjoy, and explore, Lake Pend Oreille.

This was originally published on exploretraveler.com August 21, 2015 at:

https://exploretraveler.com/lake-pend-oreille-idaho-usa/

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Fun In The Sun At Oceanside California USA

October 4, 2017 by Exploretraveler.com Leave a Comment

There Is Something For Everybody At Oceanside

Oceanside, California is the northern most city in San Diego County, and one of the best and largest playgrounds in Southern California. It is the third largest city in the county, but avoids a lot of the congestion, as everyone is at the beach. Here people of all walks of life enjoy the sun with a variety of sports to pass the time of day. On the beach, you see beach comers of all ages and those who love to bake in the hot Southern California sun. The beautiful white sandy shores are always filled with people who love to spend their day at the beach. This is a mecca for those who love to build and design amazing sand castles. Often you will see castles that are more than you could ever imagine. When they are holding contests, you will see mind blowing artistic creations such as your imagination can not dream about. This is the culture of Oceanside, California.

A Surfer Coming In And Another Waiting To Catch The Next Wave

There is constant action in Oceanside. While one is coming in, another waits to catch that next wave going out. Surfers, paddle boarders, and boogie boarders all mix in the fun. There is plenty of waves for everything in this land of the sun. Whatever your passion, there is a wave for you to catch. While on this day we are seeing mostly boards, other days bring out the Ocean Kayakers, as they paddle their way out to sea. The only limit in Oceanside seems to be your own imagination.

Catching The Last Wave Of The Day

Surfing and boogie boarding are a major love of many on this amazing beach. Everyone is in love with the absolutely fantastic waves. No matter what your skill level is, there are waves just perfect for you.

Catching Those Glorious Rays

The sand is always full of those wanting to spend a quiet few hours in the California sun. While some are laying and spending quiet time, others are reading. Then there are those who walk the shores looking for treasures from near or far. Especially after a rare storm, these treasure finders spend hours looking for the unique and rare shells among those things that have washed up. These beautiful white sand beaches are perfect for whatever your passion might be.

And for those that are looking for more, come out early or stay late. This is a perfect place to just observe beautiful views of the ocean and coast, sun rises and sunsets, gorgeous birds, Dolphins, sea lions, and sometimes whales. The possibilities are endless as you watch the many entertainers of the ocean.

The Beautiful Seabirds Of Southern California

For those who enjoy the wildlife, there are many beautiful seabirds waiting for their turn in the spotlight. This one seems to be asking for a new photo for his portfolio. What a pleasant day to just spend time observing their beauty and antics. There is nothing more fun than watching their foolish, outrageous, and amusing behavior as they fish, eat, and raise their families. This is a bird watching haven in the sun!

Beautiful Seabird Who Enjoys Entertaining

What a beautiful day to walk along the boardwalk, enjoying the residents of the Bird Kingdom. This woman is enjoying a close-up encounter with one of the local seabirds. Life is magnificent at Oceanside, California.

Fishing Off The Boardwalk In Oceanside, California

Fun for the whole family, as they are happily fishing for dinner. The fish are plentiful and the possibilities are endless as you gather the family and enjoy a day at the beach in Oceanside. And when the day is over, why not order out for dinner.

Crab Cakes On The Beach

Can you think of anything better than fresh Crab Cakes On The Beach? If Crab Cakes are not your choice, there are endless sea food choices on the menu. So enjoy the day and then complete it with a good dinner on the beach. What a perfect end to an Oceanside adventure!

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The Amazing Fishing Village Of Saint Petersburg, Alaska

August 31, 2017 by Exploretraveler.com Leave a Comment

Alaska’s “Little Norway”

If you can imagine a journey up the Inside Passage of Alaska, a journey so rich, so powerful, so life changing. This is a journey so peaceful, yet powerful, so rich and yet timeless. Saint Petersburg is a small fishing village, isolated from the rest of the state most of the year. It’s small harbors are quaint and peaceful, welcoming the smaller cruise ships to it’s port. It’s people are friendly and waiting as they always have, for the fishing boats to come home. This is a village that revolves around the fishing boats, the needs of the fishermen, and the routine of preparing the fish. There are many active canneries in this tiny community, and a few days here is life-changing. Life has stood still, the news has rarely effected this community. They are a close knit community of fishing families that welcome the stranger, like they were neighbors. Welcome to Saint Petersburg, the most amazing place on earth.

A Front Seat And What A View It Is!

Can you imagine the view without any barriers as you cruise the Inside Passage? “Little Norway” here we come. The air is fresh, the water clear, and the trip is breathtaking. As the cruise ship travels the passage, you can only imagine what awaits at the other end.

Seals At Play On A Buoy

The farther north we get, the more the seals are at play. The relaxing Alaska life is enjoyed even by the animals in this almost magical setting. Life is amazing on the Inside Passage, as we go “North To Alaska.”

The Majestic snow-capped Patterson Peaks From A Distance

At the early signs of Saint Petersburg, you begin seeing these magnificent mountain peaks complete with several surrounding mountain glaciers. The grandeur of those early views are spectacular.

First Views Of The Village

The first almost magical view of this little village who still makes their daily bread from the sea. Life is full, simple, and rich in this fishing village. The village welcomes you in person as you come into their village. This is a place where time has stood almost still.

Another Ship Docked In Saint Petersburg’s Shallow Water Harbor

Preparing To Dock In Saint Petersburg’s Spectacular Harbor

Canaries Still Functioning After More Than One Hundred Years

The Hard Working Fishing Village On The Banks Of The Inside Passage

These cold northern waters yield some of the tastiest Halibut, Rockfish, and bountiful amounts of King Salmon, Sockeye, Silver, Pink, and Pacific Salmon. The fish is a part of the day to day culture of the people. So many ways to prepare the season’s catch.

Getting The Pots Ready For Dungeness Crab Season

In Saint Petersburg, one season blends with the next. While the fisherman are fishing, those at home are preparing for the next season. Life is never dull, only peaceful, in this community of Norwegians. These must be some of the most efficient, yet hospitable people on earth.

Fresh King Crab And Alaskan Salmon Seafood Feast

Can life get any better? An ordinary dinner that is fit for a King! Life is precious in “Little Norway” and the people make each day count, yet it is laid back with a prevailing peace that is like magic to the mind and body. Are you ready for adventure? Grab your passport, and gather your things. This quaint little village is waiting to show you what life can be, on the far Northern Pacific, in Alaska.

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Exploring The Oregon Coast

August 20, 2017 by Exploretraveler.com Leave a Comment

Exploring The Oregon Coast

The Oregon Coast with its magnificent dunes, spectacular cliffs and wild surf is all the reason you need to come. People don’t come to sunbathe, you can leave your swimsuit in the car. If you are fortunate you will see a little sun peaking through the clouds and trees of the old growth forests. This is a land where cliffs and magnificent rocks jet out into the wild surf. Here you put on your jacket and scale dunes as high as 500 feet. You will see people in sweaters walking the beach looking for treasures. This is a land of natural and unique beauty.

The magnificent sand dunes stretch for more than forty miles. These massive dunes run all the way from Florence in the North to North Bend in the south. This is the largest expanse of coastal sand dunes in all of North America. Here you can take your dune buggies and sand bikes and explore to your heart’s content. The dunes seem like tall mountains of sand. What fun it is to scale your mountain and zoom down again. If you are looking for excitement and unique landscapes, you will find it at the Oregon Coast.

Let The Adventure Begin

Gather at the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area and let the fun begin. Adventure is waiting in a package of solitude as you embark on a journey through a land of blowing sand. Endless sand gives more than enough opportunity for those who love to ride and play in a world of sandy make-believe. Hours of exploration await on beautiful shifting sandy mountains. The wind seems endless and your play ground is uniquely different each day.

Those that prefer not to ride the dunes will find many other opportunities for excitement at the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area. Here you will find areas open only to those on horseback and many fantastic trails. There are trails appropriate for all hiking abilities. The novice as well as the experienced hiker will find hours of hiking opportunities. What a perfect place to explore. The bicycle enthusiasts will find miles and miles of challenging bike trails. This unique playground has something for everyone. You will find tent and RV camping locations, as well as day use areas. There are cabins for rent in many locations.

One of the most outstanding viewpoints on the Oregon Dunes is just south of Florence. It is located at the Oregon Dunes Overlook Day Use Area on Highway 101. Enjoy wide panoramic views of the

se beautiful mega dunes. The sandy mountains seem to go on forever. There are several viewing platforms and more than a half-mile of paved walkways. If that weren’t enough, you can enjoy one of several picnic areas which overlook the landscape. All this, and a lovely view of the ocean in the distance, make this the perfect artist painting.

Those that prefer to follow the birds, will find many unique and beautiful birds. Life is exciting at the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area! Brandt’s Cormorants can be seen nesting on top of the steep ocean cliffs of Florence, Oregon. Florence, though mostly known for its sand dune adventures, is home to many beautiful birds. The unique and tall cliffs provide the perfect nesting location for these beautiful Cormorants.

As you drive along the Southern Oregon Coast, these beautiful blue birds can be seen nesting in the rocks. They are residents of these beautiful wave-washed rocks and wild surf. Often they can be seen with the sea lions that also can be found in large numbers in the area. These beautiful birds are always quite the social butterfly and can be seen feeding in large groups. They love to roost on the rocks near the water’s edge. They feed in large flocks and can be seen socializing with other large sea birds. If you enjoy the bird watching, you will love the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area.

For more information on the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area contact:

Cape Perpetua Visitor

2400 Highway 101
Yachats, Oregon 97498
541-547-3289Oregon Dunes NRA Visitor Center
855 Highway Avenue
Reedsport, Oregon 97467
541-271-6000

Central Coast Ranger District
1130 Forestry Lane
Waldport, Oregon 97394
541-563-8400

Steller Sea Lions

Steller Sea Lions can be found resting along the rocky shores of Sea Lion Caves in Florence Oregon. Along with the Brandt’s Cormorants, the Steller Sea Lions call the area around Florence, Oregon home. Nothing quite prepares you for America’s largest sea cave. It is wild and unique. Sea Lion Caves is a fun and wild place.

Sea Lion Caves is a unique system of connected sea caves about 11 miles North of Florence, Oregon. These connected sea caves are also open to the mighty Pacific Ocean. People can access the caves through the/ gift shop. Scenic Highway 101 at this point borders about 300 miles of a steep and undeveloped seascape, which is more than 300 feet above sea level,

Sea Lion Caves
91560 U.S. 101
Florence, OR 97439
(541) 547-3111
Sea Lion Caves is open 7 days a week from 9 am till 7 pm.

Happy Cows In Tillamook

Take a short drive inland and you will see meadows filled with happy cows. Tillamook Cows live in the lush green meadows surrounding Tillamook, Oregon. These beautiful milk cows thrive on the green grasses of the meadow. The cows are not given any chemicals or inoculations. They are not fed feed with additives. These are the dairy cows of Tillamook Cheese Factory. How amazing to watch these amazing happy cows.

The cows are milked morning and night and the fresh milk is taken to the factory and the cheese process begins. The farmers raise before dawn to do the morning milking and 12 hours latter they do the evening milking. All day long they tend to the farm, the farm that produces not only happy cows, but quality milk. A farmer’s work is never done. Only the best milk can be used at the Tillamook Cheese Factory.

A Work Of Perfection

Cheese making at the Tillamook Cheese Factory is a work of perfection. This is a work of art! There is no margin for error, there is only perfection. It begins with the best milk. When you have the highest quality of milk, there is no need for additives. In less than 24 hours after the milk arrives from the farm, the cheese is completed. It takes 100 pounds of quality milk to make a ten pound block of Tillamook Cheese.

One of the fun experiences at the factory is being able to watch the cheese being made. Self guided tours allow you the flexibility to watch and move from observation station to observation station at your own pace. Each station has an explanation of the process that you are watching unfold below. A day at the Tillamook Cheese Factory is a cheesy adventure!

Cheese making is an art in it’s own right. Each day 171,000 pounds of cheese is made. That is only the beginning. Each type of cheese must be aged for the correct amount of time. Cheeses age anywhere from 60 days for a mild cheese to over 3 years for a very sharp cheese.

Squeaky Cheese

Squeaky Cheese are bite-size Cheese Curds that squeak! You have to try these awesome cheese curds. Cheese Curds are the freshest possible, as they are made fresh each day. The only way they could get fresher is if you were to sneak into the cheese vat as they are made. You can buy these squeaky treats in the store or online. Today is a perfect day for a squeaky treat.

The Factory Store And Eateries

The factory store is filled with many different cheeses which you can sample first and then only buy what you really liked. It is a cheese tasting adventure! What a fun way to start the day! At the store you will find cheese of every kind, freshly made yogurt and ice creams, sour cream and other favorite fresh dairy specialities. What a fun place!

Did the tour start to give you a yearning for a snack? Come on over to the ice cream counter. The ice cream counter is a busy place, as people come from all over the world to taste this delicious ice cream. Waffle cones are made daily fresh over the grill. Have a cone, a dish , or an adventure…..you will find them all at the ice cream counter.

Don’t forget to make a stop at the fudge counter. Chocolate, caramel, and nuts galore. So many choices at the fudge counter. With as many as 30 different flavors, be sure to taste a few and make the decision easier. You will find seasonal favorites throughout each special season. Some of the favorites are Pumpkin, Pumpkin Pecan, Pumpkin Chocolate, Eggnog, and Candy Cane. Be sure and stock up on your favorite before it is gone and the next season is ushered in.

When you are ready for a good solid breakfast, lunch, or dinner, don’t forget the Creamery Cafe. Here you will find good food and often you will dine with the farmers. A breakfast favorite is the farmhouse Scramble. This is a super hearty omelet filled with Tillamook Cheddar, eggs, potatoes, peppers, and onions. What a way to start the day!

One of the lunch favorites is a Centennial Grilled Cheese Sandwich. It is made with the finest Tillamook cheese and served on sourdough bread. Lunch and dinner at the Creamery Cafe is an adventure in good food.

The Tillamook Cheese Factory
4175 Highway 101 North
Tillamook, OR 97141
503-815-1300
800-542-7290

The factory is open daily year a round.
8 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Labor Day through mid-June)
8 a.m. to 8 p.m. (Mid-June through Labor Day)
It is closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas.

This is only a few of the adventures you will find on the Oregon Coast. Oregon is amazing and today is a great day to discover what is in your own back yard.

ExploreTraveler has been creating travel articles, books, videos, and podcasts for several years now. It is our intention to bring our older material for others here to enjoy here on Steemit, and to create new material here as well. We invite you to click on our links to the original content, and to also follow us there as well.

This was originally published on exploretraveler.com August 14,2016 at:

https://exploretraveler.com/exploring-the-oregon-coast/?utm_source=sumome&utm_medium=facebook&utm_campaign=sumome_share

If you have come from our website, ExploreTraveler.com

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Helping bring the world together one friend at a time. So travel and discover that the world is full of wonderful people.” – ExploreTraveler @exploretraveler

We have a travel tip audio book that you can purchase at Audible –> Here

Happy Travels,

ExploreTraveler Team

It All Happened In Roswell New Mexico

June 25, 2017 by Exploretraveler.com Leave a Comment

Welcome To Roswell Where History Lives On

Before Roswell was a thought, from 1866 to 1869, the area was nothing more than reservations and cattlemen bringing their cattle up what, would latter became known as the Chisum Trail. As is often the case, the Goodnight-Loving camping site soon had a trading post and gambling halls quickly followed. A wealthy gambler, Mr. Van Smith, then bought these buildings and preceded to give the area a name. Named after his father, Roswell was born and a post office was established in the year of 1873.

By 1875, one of the original cattlemen, John Chisum, bought land just outside Roswell and developed South Springs Ranch. This ranch flourished and grew, becoming the largest cattle ranch in the United States at that time. Capt. Fast forward a couple of years and Joseph Lea, another wealthy rancher in the area, began buying up most of the buildings in Roswell. By 1877 he owned most of the town and began to seriously develop the emerging community. You can ask anyone in Roswell, Lea has become known as “the father of Roswell.”

To those without vision, this may look like a formidable desert, but to these cattlemen it was a desert with a future. In 1894, the Pecos Valley Railroad, began to extend their tracks all the way to Roswell, and the new little town began to grow. It was quickly starting to supply the needs of the ranchers who lived all around. Roswell was in the right place at the right time. A ranching community in the middle of the desert was quickly being formed.

If the addition of the railroad was not enough to help this small community grow, the next piece of luck was really unexpected. Oil was discovered near the town of Artesia, a community about 40 miles south of Roswell. While there was no drilling activity in the area around Roswell, it was once again in the right place, at the right time. Roswell quickly became the business center for the oil industry. It also supplied the needs of the many new residents who came to live in New Mexico. By 1924, Roswell was gaining in importance and a major community in the desert.

During World War II, Roswell was once again in the right place, at the right time. The Army needed a facility to train bomber crews. What better place than this huge desert? In 1941 they built the Roswell Army Air Field just south of the community. Just six years latter, something that would strike the imagination of all happened. Fact or Fiction, does not matter, this new event would put Roswell on the map to stay.

The country has remained puzzled, but something very strange and foreign crashed into this vast desert in 1947.

The investigation of the unidentified flying object began and there has always been more questions, than answers. Was it an alien spaceship, a weather balloon, or other object? The desert puts out the welcome mat. Come, and decide for yourself.

What did happen, was that it firmly put Roswell on the tourist map. The evidence awaits your eyes! The UFO International Museum has exhibits that are mind blowing.

What does this all mean? Are UFO’s real? The evidence awaits your eyes. The decision is for each to make. For those that have the inclination, explore the desert and see what you can see. There is nothing like taking a desert hike and seeing where things happened.

Adventure is everywhere, and the desert is calling. So put on your glasses and see what you can find.

Get a map of the area and start to explore. Let the adventure begin!

Hike the desert and look for it’s treasures. Memories of the past are alive and well. What can you find?

Join in on the fun! And when you are tired, head on over to MacDonald’s and grab some refreshments. I am sure you have never seen a MacDonald’s like this one elsewhere.

This is a town where there is so much to see that one day is not enough. It is a modern town of over 46,000 people. Here you can find all the UFO excitement, ask your questions, and who knows, maybe find a few answers. While you are there, you will find plenty of UFO guards on every street.

Have you ever seen street lights like these? It’s a world of UFO excitement. So what are you waiting for? Grab your hiking shoes and head on out to Roswell for a UFO adventure.

https://exploretraveler.com

First Published on [email protected] June 23, 2017 at:

https://steemit.com/travel/@exploretraveler/it-all-happened-in-roswell-new-mexico

The Call Of The Washington Mountains

June 5, 2017 by Exploretraveler.com Leave a Comment

Washington Mountains Are Alive With Magical Beauty

Washington State is home to some of the most spectacular mountain ranges in the Continental United States. In this Evergreen State you have everything from snow-capped volcano peaks, to Olympic rain forests. On the slopes of Washington’s mountain ranges you will find sure footed mountain goats that seem to cling to the steep sides of the mountain cliffs. The mountain valleys provide the perfect home to herds of elk quietly grazing their day away. Some mountains are snow covered all year long, while others are beautiful and grassy. Welcome to Washington, where the mountains are as diverse as the people.

What A Magnificent Creature

The splendor of Wild Elk grazing is just one of the many magnificent surprises waiting for you as you roam this magnificent state. Explore the mountain passes, the valleys, and discover the back roads where few take time to go. Washington is a state of surprises, and you never know what you are going to see next.

Let’s Climb To The Top

The slopes of these many diverse mountains provide places to climb. Nestled among the tress are remote camping areas where you just get away for a few days. Here, in the Evergreen State, you will find activities for every skill level. Everyone, from the serious climber to the novice hiker will enjoy the many secluded and remote places to get away from the hecticness of everyday life.

Refreshing Mountain Streams

Refreshing Rivers flow down the many mountains to the Puget Sound below. The streams and rivers of the Evergreen State are crystal clear, sparkling, and delicious to drink. The many miles of fabulous rivers provide hours of white water rafting, canoeing, and kayaking for those desiring adventure. Whatever you desire to do, you can do it in Washington.

A Journey Into The Past

Explore the past. Discover the future. History is living as you take to the slopes of this active volcano. Mount St. Helen’s is abundant with nature more than 30 years after she blew in 1981. It is a major climbing and hiking destination for the the beginner, as well as the experienced climber. The volcano is climbed all year, but mostly between late spring and late fall.

Mount Saint Helen’s is the star of many stories from all the many native tribes that live in her foothills. After the 1981 volcanic explosion there were many interesting versions of different stories. If you want to relive the experience, visit the Mount Saint Helen’s Volcanic Monument. Here you will find the stories and the living history of the mountain.

Mount St. Helen’s Is Active And Recharging

Mount St. Helen’s is a very active volcano. She has been busy building a new dome. When the pressures build up within, she stops to blow off steam as needed.

Majestic Mount Rainier

Mount Rainier is yet another one of the magnificent volcanoes that call Washington home. There are three major tour companies that offer a climb to the top. Most people who attempt to climb her, fail to reach the summit. Glazier climbing skills are needed to conquer this mountain. Many enjoy skiing and other winter sports at her resorts.

Take Time To Discover….Take Time To Explore

No matter what you enjoy, Washington’s mountains are calling your name. Explore the back roads. Discover the hidden gems. Fish the remote streams. Ski the hills. Kayak down the rivers. Conquer the mountains. The choices are endless. The decision is yours. Can you hear the call? The mountains of Washington, are calling your name.

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Published on [email protected] June 6, 2017 at:

https://steemit.com/travel/@exploretraveler/the-call-of-the-washington-mountains

The Lush Green Mountain State Of Vermont

May 17, 2017 by Exploretraveler.com Leave a Comment

The Scenic Countryside Of Morrisville, Vermont On A Warm Spring Evening

Morrisville, with it’s lush rolling hills, is in the heart of the Northern Green Mountain Ski Country. Here in Green Mountain Ski Country, there are four seasons with which to enjoy. Anytime is the perfect time to visit the amazing countryside of Morrisville, Vermont. No matter the season, Vermont is clearly, a photographers paradise, an outdoor playground, and is waiting for adventurers of all ages.

The spring time wonders in this area are magnificent. Here you will find miles of the greenest countryside the world over. Not only do you have a lush and beautiful countryside, but miles and miles of clear mountain streams and rivers. Spring has come to Vermont in full force and there is nothing not to love. The rural landscapes are spectacular, the perfect place for a biking tour. Green Mountain Bike Tours has a package for everyone. They also rent bikes if you prefer to go off on your own. Spring is the perfect time for exploring the Northern Green Mountain State.

As summer arrives and the days grow warmer, why not spend some time camping in this great outdoor playground. Early mornings are the perfect time for a morning hike. Be sure to hike the Historic Long Trail that has been preserved by the Green Mountain Club. You will also find many hiking and biking experiences on the Vermont Appalachian Trail. Vermont is filled with many lakes and rivers providing many water activities and the best fishing. Why not enjoy these beautiful mountain landscapes with a self-guided canoe or kayak adventure from Umiak Outfitters. If you are looking for first class summer outdoor activities, Vermont is waiting.

As fall arrives in Vermont the colors will change to beautiful shades of yellows, oranges, and reds. The fall display of color beckons photographers from all over the world. There is nothing like this fantastic display of color. As the color deepens, the temperatures begin to fall and the evenings are brisk. This is the perfect time to visit Cold Hollow Cider Mill. Fall brings the perfect apples and there is fresh cider made daily. In this delightful farm you will discover mouth-watering Maple Syrup and jellies of all kinds. These crisp fall days are perfect days for a bike ride through the meadows. Fall is a special time in this Northern Mountain State.

Fall has passed and the snow is falling in this magnificent Green Mountain State of the North. Soon the rolling hills will be covered with snow and the children will drag their sleds out to play. Snowmen will dot the area as snowballs fly through the air. Soon it will be time to join in the winter fun at Stowe Mountain Ski Resort or Smuggler’s Notch Ski Resort. And for those down times, wander on over to Trapp Family Lodge for a sleigh ride across the snowy hills of Vermont. What a fun time winter is, for an adventure in Vermont.

The Green Mountain State Of Vermont is the perfect place for adventure 365 days a year. So pack your bags and grab the family. It’s time to head north to Vermont, where every season is a special season.

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Published on [email protected] May 19, 2017 at:

https://steemit.com/travel/@exploretraveler/the-lush-green-mountain-state-of-vermont

The Roots Of The Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race

March 15, 2017 by Exploretraveler.com Leave a Comment

Long before there was a race, there was the Iditarod Trail. For years this trail was used to get supplies to gold miners and homesteaders during the long winter months. Only sturdy sleds with teams of dogs could make this trip to provide supplies when and where needed. After the turn of the 20th century, the Iditarod Trail provided the means for these settlers and gold miners to receive mail and supplies. As an important side note, whenever a team was on the trail, the next roadhouse always lit a kerosene lamp. The lamp stayed lit till the musher was safely at his destination. Man and his dogs paved the way for settlement in these distant and isolated parts of the state. The Iditarod Trail was becoming important in the everyday life of the people who called these frigid living conditions home.

The next major milestone that for these mushers and their dogs was in the year of 1925. This was the year that an epidemic of diphtheria ravaged the far northern town of Nome. The community was taking a hard toll and the nearest supply of antitoxin serum was over 700 frozen miles away. Dog mushers who knew the trail well, were stepping forward for the great “Race Of Mercy.” Twenty mushers and over 150 dogs made this trip across the frozen tundra in six days. Thanks to these great teams, of men and their dogs, an epidemic was stopped and a town saved. The Race of Mercy was a success.

In the next few years air travel began to do what the mushers of the past had done and the trail lost its importance. Then in the 1960’s plans began to be made for the Alaska Cntennial celebration in 1967. Thanks to Dorothy Page from Wasilla, a short 27 mile memorial race was scheduled to take place during the Centennial. This memorial race was won by Isaac Okleasik. Over the next few years, short races took place but the Iditarod never really got off the ground until in 1973, when the first full length race was set up. This first race over unforgiving frozen tundra was won by Dick Wilmarth and his lead dog, Hotfoot. They made the run to Nome in 20 days. The prize was 25,000 dollars. With this first full length race, the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race was born. It was at this first race that the establishing of the Widow’s lamp tradition began. Each year on the first Sunday of March at 10 am, a lamp is lit in Nome at the trail’s end. It will not go out until the last man has arrived.

Since this first race in 1973, the Iditarod, which means “distant place” in the different languages of the Alaskan indigenous people, has been a yearly event in March. The first place winner in this Inaugural Iditarod was Dick Wilmarth of Red Devil, Alaska and his lead dog, Hotfoot. Dick Wilmarth covered this unwelcoming land of brutal ice and snow driven by the wind in 20 days, 49 minutes, and 41 seconds for a prize of 12,000 dollars. Bobby Vent of Huslia, Alaska came in second at 20 days, 11 hours, 18 minutes, and 42 seconds, with a prize of 8,000 dollars.

Over the years since that first race in 1973, there has been many records and firsts in this amazing race of skill and endurance. One of the most important aspects of each race is the participation of each person. This is highlighted by the Red Lantern Award given out each year as a tribute to the persistence and endurance of the last person to cross the finish line. The slowest musher to receive this award was John Schultz in 1973. He was the last person to cross the finish line. He was the slowest person to ever receive this award. John Schultz, took 32 days, 15 hours, nine minutes and one second to finish that first race, but he finished. Each person who finishes receives around 1,000 dollars to help with his expenses.

Over the years the times have shortened and many firsts have been done. Since its inception, the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race has grown into a World renown race with competitors from all over the world. Those who compete in this race, are the world’s best.

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The Race Is On~The Great Alaskan Iditarod

March 13, 2017 by Exploretraveler.com Leave a Comment

On The Trail Again

With the sights and sounds of the crowds becoming dimmer, the Iditarod Race is on. The mountains loom in the background as the teams forge ahead. Nothing but snow and ice for as far as you can see. The exhilaration is felt as you zoom through the powder and over the ice. Not even a whisper is uttered beyond the sound of your own breath and the noise of the dogs as they plow through all types of ice and snow. The tedious repetition and routine is broken only when a driver speaks to his dogs, or stops to check out the paws of these fearless runners. What a thrill as you run through the greatest wilderness in North America.

The Iditarod is the accumulation of months of mushing over one of the world’s brutalist environments. It is an example of the love between a man and his dogs. It shows the hours of preparation, as the team runs from early in the morning until late at night day after day. There are no summer breaks, just a different type of sled that is used when there is no snow. Only the sound of the wind can be heard beyond the musher as he or she directs their dogs . Beyond the dogs, there is only the sound of your own breath, that is, when it is not frozen in mid-air.

There is so much to learn, for the mushers and their dogs. Children often begin to learn as a young boy or girl. They are a champion in the making. They live, learn, study, and exist for mushing. If their dream is to be realized, it will take many years of trapping, running, and working their dogs, as they learn from the best of the best. Even with all the setbacks that happen in life, if a boy or girl is destined to mush, They will mush. Day after day, they will hear and see only the whispering of the wind, the ice, and the snow. As they learn to become one with their team, and their team becomes one with him. Together they will run some of the wildest trails in North America.

The teams that come to the Iditarod to race have prepared for the world’s greatest competitive event. It is one that is long and rough, with over a 1000 miles of the most magnificent and rugged beauty in the world. It is also some of the wildest beauty. Mother Nature offers up a plate of tall snow covered mountains, frozen rivers and lakes, dense and frozen forests, frozen tundra, and miles and miles of nothing. If that was not enough, the temperatures are way below zero. Mother Nature gives out treacherous winds and blizzards, where there is nothing left to see. The hazards are everywhere, with wicked climbs, many hills and drop offs on one side. This is a race that is only possible in Alaska. It is known as: “The Last Great Race on Earth,”

The racers are unique men and women from all over the world. The are the best of the best. They are trappers, natives, doctors, lawyers, students, artists and more. They are a group with extreme skills, and they come together to test those skills.

THE RACE IS ON!

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