The Perfect Getaway: Discovering The Closest Beach To Disney World!

BY  Ankita Nov 20, 2023

Looking for exciting outdoor activities near Cleveland? Head to Cuyahoga Valley! Bridging the gap between Cleveland and Akron, the amazing north-south national park offers you multiple outdoor leisure options. You will be delighted to explore its waterfalls, hills, and caves. At the same time, the meandering river views create a unique background for landscape photography. Hiking, boating, biking, camping, and sightseeing available within the park won’t make you bored. Not to mention the picturesque walks through steep narrow ravines, rocky floodplains, and lush contrasting farmland. Animal life is also abundant there. The area is home to wild species such as beaver, deer, and dozens of varieties of birds, including wood duck and heron. So, cruising Cuyahoga Valley National Park is definitely on the list of the best Cleveland day trips. If you are planning such a ride, find all the necessary information below. How Did The Park Begin?  The roots go back to the mid-19th century when it was simply a popular vacation spot for city residents. However, in the 1960s and 1970s, rapid commercial development and urban expansion began to threaten the rural areas of the northeast Ohio region. Locals and environmental groups have pressured the government to preserve the scenic natural environment of the undeveloped territory between Akron and Cleveland. Based on the results of the contamination analysis, corporate giants such as Ford, Chrysler, General Motors, and 3M were forced to pay for cleanup work. The park was closed in 1987 for cleaning and was finally re-opened only in 2011. What's Interesting In The Park?  With an area of nearly 10,000 hectares, the Cuyahoga Valley includes several natural areas such as forests, rivers, lakes, waterfalls, wetlands, meadows, hills, and ravines. As a result, you can enjoy a variety of recreational activities - hiking, biking, kayaking, sledding, and cross-country skiing to mention a few. Visitors will also be pleased to take a scenic train ride through the valley. Let's look at the major things that are worth researching within the area. Nature And Wildlife In Cuyahoga Valley You probably imagine yourself leisurely strolling through the park, inhaling the morning aromas of the awakened forest. Then, you see a fox running in the distance or a turtle slowly crawling between the bushes. Luckily, this is possible in the Cuyahoga Valley. The natural vegetation of the national park consists of mixed mesophytic forests with many deciduous trees such as oak, maple, hickory, and beech. Other natural habitats such as wet grasslands, wetlands, and old field habitats alternate with these forests. According to statistics, the area between Cleveland and Akon supports more than 943 plant species. However, about 20% of them are not of local origin. 16 species of these exotic plants are considered invasive and pose a significant threat to the park's native plant communities. The wildlife in this reserve includes a variety of representatives living in the water, on land, and in the air. Starting with 8 species of frogs and 9 species of salamanders, the list of recorded inhabitants consists of about 20 species of reptiles (11 snakes, 8 turtles, and 1 skink). Not to mention over 39 species of mammals. These include coyotes, raccoons, red foxes, beavers, skunks, river otters, moles, opossums, bats, and white-tailed deer. Also, the park is home to more than 250 species of birds. Some of the famous species include peregrine falcons, bald eagles, Canada geese, great blue herons, yellow warblers, goldfinches, blue jays, woodpeckers, etc. The park’s nature potential is so big that you are sure to discover the naturalist in you while exploring the local hiking trails! Scenic Hikes In Cuyahoga Valley  Walking is the best way to thoroughly explore the local landscapes. Moreover, you have more than 125 miles of specialized hiking trails of varying difficulty levels and elevation changes. Check out the TOP-3 most popular ones below. Brandywine Gorge Trail  This 1.4-mile-long loop trail takes you to Brandywine Falls - the area's most iconic highlight. To get started, walk down to the overlook point and watch the waterfall into the 70-foot-deep gorge. Your hike may end here, but we recommend continuing along the embankment and seeing the coastal natural beauty. The entire walk takes approximately 30-40 minutes at a leisurely pace. If you want to avoid the crowds of tourists at the waterfall, plan to start your hike before 10 am. The Ledges Trail  If you're looking for a trail to explore the park as thoroughly as possible, you've found it. The 1.8-mile-long route passes ledges, the so-called flat sandstone formations jutting out of the bedrock. Nature has created a whole architectural ensemble of such formations, and now you can stroll through its labyrinths. Stones covered with moss add mysticism and a special atmosphere to this place. Icebox Cave is one more iconic place to visit along the way. Expect to spend about 50-60 minutes on this scenic hike. Blue Hen Falls Trail  Prepare your legs for a challenging route with a lot of elevation change. However, you will receive great rewards for your efforts. You'll walk about 3 miles of dirt trails, with a short section running along Boston Mills Rd. The final point of your hike is Blue Hen Falls. The route is replete with enchanting forest panoramas and you will get multiple spectacular overlooks along the way. The average time needed to complete the trail is 1 hour and 20 minutes. Waterfalls In Cuyahoga Valley National Park  The unique geological structure of the region with large differences in elevation and the presence of rivers and streams contributed to the formation of waterfalls. In total, there are about 100 waterfalls in the park, with most located in the northern section. Among the most famous are: Brandywine Falls (70 ft) Bridal Veil Falls (20ft) Blue Hen Falls (15 feet) Falls (15 feet) Great Falls of Tinkers Creek (20ft) How To Get There And Navigate Around?  Regular buses run to/from the park, but nothing is more enjoyable than exploring it on your schedule. Therefore, we recommend that you go to Rental24h.com and book a car rental at Cleveland Hopkins International Airport. You get access to multiple Cleveland Airport car hire deals in different categories, allowing you to choose the perfect vehicle for your specific needs. Once you're behind the wheel, head to the Boston Mill Visitor Center. From downtown Cleveland, get on I-77 S and drive approximately 15 miles south. Then, take exit 146 toward I-80/Toledo/Youngstown and keep right to follow signs for OH-21/Richfield. After this, turn right onto OH-21 S/Brecksville Rd, and after half a mile turn left onto Boston Mills Rd. Finally, drive over Black Rd and continue onto Boston Mills Rd to arrive at your destination. The Cuyahoga Valley visitor center is open from 9:30 am to 5 pm every day and provides information on in-park routes and local activities. If necessary, the staff will help you plan your upcoming trip and show you a specialized place to stay. So, consider an outing to Cuyahoga Valley when deciding between various day excursions from Cleveland. Both you and your children will enjoy this outdoor experience. Moreover, any time of the year is excellent for your ride. The average annual temperature in the region is about 18°C (65°F) with about 528 mm of precipitation per year. The highest temperature reaches around 27°C (81°F) in July, while the lowest temperature drops to -1°C (31°F) in January. However, the period from mid-spring to mid-autumn is the most pleasant due to the comfortable weather. Read Also: 10 Best Things To Do In Prague 10 Best Things To Do In Barcelona (Spain) 10 Best Things To Do In Dublin (Ireland)

BY  Ankita Oct 13, 2023

Winter vacations come packed with numerous fun activities. If you like skiing, this is the best time for you. The season is cold, allowing you to wear the warm clothes you have stuck away for a long time. You get to enjoy the warm coffee and cozy evenings. You can also enjoy watching the starry sky at night as you keep warm around a fire. Those who love being outdoors during the winter have the opportunity to plan a fantastic winter vacation. A successful vacation begins with proper planning. So, develop a checklist and prioritize the important things. Part of planning is packing all the items you will need during your winter trip, and there are several things to remember.  Here Are Ten Important Things For Winter Vacation  This article will present ten must-have things for winter vacation. This checklist will allow you to plan your winter holiday and enjoy the experience. 1. Medicines Carrying your medicines is a vital thing when going on a winter vacation. It is cold, meaning you could get the flu. Carry an anti-fungal cream, a cold and cough syrup, a balm for the headache, and flu medicines. Because of the abrupt change in temperatures, you may experience various issues, hence the importance of being prepared for minor illnesses. It is also crucial to carry your menstrual pads and tablets. 2. Thermal Wears It is vital to carry high-quality thermal wear when going on a winter vacation. The thermals maintain the warmth in your body during severe temperature drops. They are must-haves when packing for winter travel. Remember, thermal wear protects the entire body. It is allowed if you feel you cannot wear more clothes over the thermals, and the thermal wear will keep you warm. 3. Winter Jacket Winter jackets are the most essential items for a winter holiday. The jacket forms an outer layer over your sweater or thermal wear, insulating you from the cold. A great winter jacket provides warmth throughout the trip. It is a vital addition to the packing checklist. So, choose down jackets or army-type jackets for more comfort. If you want a carry-on bag only, it will be wise to wear some bulkier items like the winter jacket. This will free up space for other things. Furthermore, if you wear bulky items like boots and coats, you can bring more layers in the bag to keep yourself warmer. 4. Shoes No matter the time of the year you are traveling, carrying several pairs of shoes can be challenging and takes up space in the bag. Especially when traveling in the winter, packing several boots will only take up most of the space in the bag. You are not going to spend the whole holiday indoors. That means you will need quality winter shoes for the vacation. Your holiday will involve walking around and traveling.  So, pack winter shoes with warm socks to keep your feet warm. Wear high winter boots for more protection if snow is in your destination. Select a boot that works when working on the snow and a clear road. If you must pack several shoes, stuff them with gloves, hats, socks, and scarves to utilize the space inside. 5. Gloves and Socks Ensure your hands are warm throughout by wearing gloves. It is easy to ignore feet and hands essentials when packing for a winter vacation. If you don’t pack gloves and socks, you leave your hands and feet vulnerable to colds and infections. If you are going away with kids, ensure you carry woolen mittens to keep their tiny arms warm. By packing several gloves, hats, and scarves, you will change your daily looks without needing too much space in the bag. 6. Backpack Choosing a quality backpack or suitcase to keep your items is also essential. It should be light and enough to accommodate all your belongings. Choose a travel bag with several pockets to keep your things organized and categorized. It is advisable to avoid carrying a heavy load because managing it is tough, and you may miss the chance to have fun. Sometimes, you must pack bulky and thick items when traveling in cold weather. Fortunately, you can utilize packing cubes and compression bags to reduce the space hoarders in the luggage. These items can help maintain small luggage and keep your carry-on organized. 7. Sweaters A winter vacation packing list is not complete without packing sweaters. They are crucial because they provide warmth by adding protective layers to your thermal wear and jacket. If possible, it is better to carry a thick sweater for more warmth. 8. Thermo Flask Or Water Bottle Another crucial item on your packing checklist is a thermo flask or a water bottle. You will need to carry water or something warm like coffee in case there are no coffee shops in the area. Taking warm coffee, tea, or water in the flask will give you the warmth you need to relieve the cold. 9. Sunglasses Sunglasses may be an unlikely option for winter vacation, but they are also essential for packing. The morning sun and snow cause a reflection that could damage your eyes. Furthermore, just because the sun is not hot does not mean it doesn’t have UV rays. Therefore, sunglasses are essential items on the travel checklist. 10. Scarves And Caps Make sure your head and neck are well-protected from the cold. So, you need to pack some caps and scarves for this. Carry monkey caps since they provide warmth for the head and neck. Even though they may seem unattractive, these caps are the best to protect the whole head region from the cold. Ensure you also pack woolen scarves for the same purpose. Related: Must Pack Business Travel Packing List Along With Tips Enjoy Your Winter Vacation Going on a beach vacation during summer may be the easiest to pack. You only pack light-weight clothes, a swimsuit, and flip-flops, and you are good to go. However, packing for a winter vacation comes with some challenges. For starters, you must carry everything you need to keep yourself warm. You may also have a space problem because most winter clothes are bulky, and you must squeeze them in the carry-on. However, having a checklist is helpful since it helps you pack enough items in the bag. Read Also: Must Pack Business Travel Packing List Along With Tips Traveling During Winter? Here Is A Winter Vacation Planning Checklist Why Travel Trailers Are The New Vacation Norm

BY  Abdul Aziz Feb 22, 2024

Every kind of traveler can find something to do in Moab, and there are so many must-see locations that you'll want to come back time and time again. Every time you visit, new magic will reveal itself. To help you plan your trip to the American West better, don't forget to carry a map of the surrounding parks. Let us know which Moab tours spiked your interest the most. While most things to do in Moab Utah take place in the spring, summer, and fall, winter is often the ideal season to visit this region. During that time, there is less traffic from tourists. Hence, this makes it simpler to stray into local areas and start a conversation with locals. The Moab region is less crowded than other well-known locations during the snow season. It provides an excellent opportunity for winter sports participation. These days, a growing number of people are discovering the mystical beauty of the American West. Moab, Utah, has emerged as one of the top travel destinations for those seeking an outdoor atmosphere. Activities in Moab include hiking in Canyonlands National Park and taking a picturesque drive to the La Sal Mountains. You can raft down pure, wild rivers through the area's famous red rock canyons and go mountain biking through the breathtaking Arches National Park. If you're ready to start looking into Moab activities, then here is a guide to set you up for an incredible Western adventure.  Things To Do in Moab Utah Moab’s ability to amaze is as varied as its visitor’s taste in adventure. There is a lot more than just visual attraction in Moab. It offers two national parks, whitewater rafting, a zipline, off-road adventures, scenic drives, and rock climbing. Whether you want to spend your time charting the rugged terrain or take a more aesthetic tour, Moab will leave you spoiled for choice. Arches National Park For good reason, Arches National Park is one of the most well-liked national parks in the union and one of the best things to do in Moab Utah. In addition to many other fascinating rock formations, the park is home to over 2,000 naturally occurring stone arches. Popular summertime activities in this area include hiking and camping but remember to pack plenty of water because summer temperatures can soar. Both inside the park and near Moab, there are many campgrounds. If you're more of a cabin person than a tent camper, there are even some stunning locations in the La Sal Mountains. It is impossible to visit Moab, Utah, and not take in Arches National Park. Just off the highway, you can easily explore many of the park's iconic features. Moreover, you can take a guided van tour in the morning or evening or go for a solo drive. A guided van tour also has several benefits. You can get away from the wheel so you can look around the park and have a good time. Your guide will interpret what you see along with pointing you in the direction of some of the greatest locations for pictures. You will witness places such as Turret Arch, Balanced Rock, Double-O Arch, and more. It's a very satisfying experience to venture a little further on your own towards Delicate Arch. But be advised that it takes some planning and preparation in addition to the usual stroll through the National Park. Dead Horse Point State Park Anybody who enjoys the outdoors should visit Dead Horse Point State Park. Beautiful views of the Colorado River and Canyonlands National Park can be seen in the park. You will be astounded by the enormous "loop" that thousands of years of rushing water have chiseled out of the rock from Dead Horse Point's grand viewpoint. One of the most well-liked activities in Moab these days is going to this area. The area is named after the way 19th-century cowboys used the point's distinctive formation to create a natural corral. It required minimal barricading for the single entrance and exit. The irony was that many of the horses perished from heat exhaustion and dehydration. They were only a few thousand feet away. Canyoneering One of the most popular things to do in Moab Utah, is canyoneering, which is made possible by the thousands of cliffs and canyons to explore. If you're new to the sport, make sure to hire a guide. It can be dangerous without the right knowledge and gear. Our two favorites, the San Rafael Swell and Robbers Roost offer breathtaking slot canyons to explore. Which areas are ideal for beginners and where to go if you want a more technical experience can be determined with the aid of a good guide. Jeep/Off-roading Driving a Jeep is one of the greatest things to do in Moab Utah. A lot of companies offer off-roading tours, or you can rent a Jeep and go exploring on your own. Just make sure you stick to the paths that are designated, as some are very far away and hard to get to. When it's not too hot or too snowy, spring and fall are the ideal seasons to visit. You can let a guide show you the best of Moab, or you can explore on your own by going on the Aztec Butte Trail and visiting the Gemini Bridges. Sunset Hummer Safaris on the Hell's Revenge Trail are among the greatest activities to undertake on a summer evening in Moab. When the sun sets farther to the west, everything in Moab takes on a more intense hue of red, pink, or orange. You will be riding over some of the most unusual terrains on Earth in a rock-steady Hummer. Driven by knowledgeable guides, you can take in this kaleidoscope of colors falling upon the Slickrock. Possibly the most well-known 4x4 trail in the world, Hell's Revenge Trail is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Moab Utah. Hiking Since hiking is one of the top things to do in Moab Utah, why not incorporate some Creekside trails, arches, and hidden grottoes into your hike? Hikers frequently scale the Grandstaff Canyon in search of some shade and unusual desert flora beside a bubbling stream. But they eventually return to the trailhead at the base. When canyoneering in Moab, the adventure starts at the uppermost point of Grandstaff Canyon. Equipped with expert canyoneering guides as well as ropes, you can go down into Ephedra's Grotto. You can then traverse the enormous yet concealed Morning Glory Arch. You are now at the very top of the breathtaking Grandstaff Canyon. That looks like the start of a hike in Moab! Hike to Delicate Arch/Landscape Arch Moab offers many opportunities to explore its rock features, both inside and outside National Parks. You might be asking yourself if it makes sense to hike up to three miles from the parking lot just to see another. It's a valid point since there are so many amazing features and viewpoints. It will be a beacon for a leisurely stroll and some window shopping. However, if you want to hike Delicate Arch/Landscape Arch, you might want to factor in a half-day for your trip. Equip yourself with appropriate footwear, coats, water, and a high-quality camera. A poor camera will still be able to capture a stunning image of Delicate Arch. Its breathtaking position, background, and sun angle are what make it so famous for Olympic Torch parades, license plates, and countless postcards. You can't help but wonder if this landscape is better known as "Landscape Arch" because it is so visually appealing. The real Landscape Arch appears to defy gravity with its fragile, slender, and, well, delicate profile. It is an easy hike but much harder to fit in a camera frame. These two visually stunning and somewhat strenuous arches are well worth the hike. Hike To Fisher Towers From certain vantage points within Castle Valley below, these enormous towers seem like they belong to a National Park or monument. They rise almost a thousand feet above the desert floor. Rock climbing is a hugely popular activity in Moab, and experienced climbers can enjoy a demanding and rewarding view from the Fisher Towers. In Moab, beginner climbs are advised elsewhere. It's breathtaking enough to hike the winding trail at the base of the towers. Ropes are not necessary to enjoy this breathtaking view! It truly gives you the impression that you have been somewhere deserving of the moniker "The West." The way the area glows at dusk, and the silhouettes of notable rock castles in the valley below are awe-inspiring. In the afternoon and evening, there's not much shade, so be sure to pack water for the hike. Ride the Moab Zip Line You can soar like a raven from domes, sandstone ledges, and fins across a vast desert rimmed by snow-capped mountains. Zipline tours are always fun, no matter where you are. Better yet, you can easily reach this incredibly entertaining activity in Moab from the northern end of Main Street. A wild 4x4 ride up the mountainside will take you above the town and onto the edge of a completely different landscape. It is otherwise blinded from view. These tours take place nearly all day, so you can schedule them around a lot of the other Moab activities we've already covered. Overlook the Dead Horse Point Undoubtedly, one of the best things to do in Moab, Utah, is to take in the expansive view from this conveniently located overlook during the morning or evening hours. This State Park will inspire you even in the flat midday sun. As the Colorado River approaches the deeper maze of gorges in Canyonlands National Park, its goosenecks flow hundreds of feet below. It includes the Cataract Canyon. Consider going on a guided mountain biking tour on the easy-to-moderate trails. They circle the Dead Horse Point area if you're looking for an enjoyable activity to do while you're here. There are several breathtaking scenic overlooks on the tour. Rent a Jeep to Remote Parts In Moab, driving a Jeep seems natural. Cars are perfectly adequate for getting around. But there is something about the big, bristly Yokohama tires, the satellite radio, and the ice-filled cooler in the back. It just makes you want to explore. Moab is a haven for off-road adventure seekers. There are odd dirt roads in the area around Moab. They go in all directions without going anywhere. But there are many breathtaking viewpoints along the way! The early 1950s and 1960s uranium mining boom left Moab with an abundance of these "off-road" (or dirt roads) routes that lead nowhere. Rock Climbing Yosemite Valley and El Capitan are not the only well-known locations among rock climbers. Known as a tributary of Canyonlands National Park, Indian Creek features some of the most sought-after crack climbs in the world. The summit of the Fisher Tower is a momentous occasion commemorated in many TV commercials and gear catalogs. Some of them are Castleton Tower or the Titan. Grandview Point in Canyonlands National Park It's difficult not to recommend visiting Mesa Arch while at Dead Horse Point. It is barely minutes from Dead Horse Point State Park and lies just beyond the border of Canyonlands National Park. Mesa Arch, which frames the scene with a massive arch, offers a similar incredible view as Dead Horse Point however, from a different angle that faces east. For the classic shot of the early light glowing under the arch, photographers swarm to this conveniently located overlook. However, if you happen to visit on a Sunday afternoon and appear to be alone, you may feel so reverent that you may want to take off your shoes. However, you should probably wait to do that until you've located a seat. Consider heading south on Grandview Point Road to the road's namesake point at the end if you want to turn it into a Sunday drive. It really is quite grand. You will wonder what lies beneath those depths and around the corner. You should also consider another exciting way to explore the stone wilderness that lies in front of you. Multi-Day Rafting Trip If you are serious about getting off the beaten path while in Moab, then you must consider an overnight expedition-level rafting trip. These multi-day whitewater rafting experiences transport you to and from isolated dir airstrips. It is as far-flung as an Alaskan bush plane could travel. Imagine spending four or five days floating nearly 100 miles. Then, you could come back to Moab to complete whatever else is on your Moab bucket list. You will be a different person after participating in these "expedition-level" whitewater rafting experiences. Suddenly, you will know more about Moab and, more significantly, about yourself!  Wrapping Up Moab is one of the world's most breathtaking travel destinations. It promises breathtaking views at every turn, with deep canyons, tall mountains, and roaring rivers among its many natural features. It is imperative that this priceless area be preserved for future generations. When visiting, always stick to the trails and show respect for wildlife. Leave historic sites and rock art alone, and always take what you bring with you. If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask about things to do in Moab, Utah please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you! Read Also: From Festivals To Spas: The Top Things To Do In Park City Utah From Museums To Parks: The Top Attractions In St George Utah The Best Places To Live In Washington State For Every Lifestyle