Here’s A Quick Guide To The Top 12 Hiking Destinations In The US

BY  Abdul Aziz Apr 29, 2020

With many natural sights, monuments, and other adventurous places, Flagstaff is the largest city in northern Arizona. Trust me, you’re going to find a lot of exciting things to do in Flagstaff. I visited Flagstaff last year along with several other best places in the USA.   It was a truly exhilarating journey from Las Vegas to Zion National Park. Apart from this, I also had a great time on the Maryland trip.   Now, in this post, you will find many attractive places with a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, snowboarding, etc.   Best Things to Do in Flagstaff   The best place to start your Flagstaff trip is from the Historic Downtown and Railroad District. Know the other exciting things to do here.   1. Exploring Historic Downtown and Railroad District  When you plan your Flagstaff trip, I would recommend that you start the trip from the Historic Downtown and Railroad District.   I’m sure you’re going to enjoy the beauty of the town walking along the streets. You will find historic buildings that are now being converted into hotels, restaurants, breweries, etc.   Even at night, you’ll find a crowd in the town. I remember when I came back from a movie show, some college students were out on the street. You can book a day or two of your stay here to enjoy the farmer’s market, local events, entertainment shows, shopping, eating, and drinking.   The town allows easy access to many other tourist spots in Flagstaff. A wonderful park is located within walking distance of the visitors’ center.  2. Visiting Wheeler Park is One of the Best Things to Do in Flagstaff  Take a short walk from the visitor center of the historic downtown to get to this park.  Visiting Wheeler Park is one of the best things to do in Flagstaff.   The park hosts a variety of events, such as regular park runs and weekly art festivals like Park Art, Hullabaloo, and more.   The park is full of trees that give you a green space to relax and enjoy. When I visited this park, a lot of people came with books to read, but my friends and I enjoyed a picnic in the park.   3. Grand Canyon Day Tour  This place is out of town, so you can book a day trip to discover different historic buildings and hike in different locations. If you have time, then a day trip to the Grand Canyon is one of the great things to do in Flagstaff.  You’ll find the El Tovar Lodge and the Desert View Watchtower on this day trip. You’ll get a chance to have lunch and explore the Navajo Trading Post. Usually, it’s best if you’re traveling in a group.  4. Walnut Canyon National Monument  Exploring the Walnut Canyon National Monument is one of the most interesting things to do in Flagstaff. You might be thinking, why is the name of the monument called so? The reason is simple: the name is because this national monument is full of Arizona Walnut trees.  This monument is in the East of Flagstaff, which has many types of plants. The canyon has more than 500 species of plants, and you’ll find various wildlife in the forest.  Another interesting part of the monument is the loop trail, which descends along the canyon. There are several other trails around the Walnut Canyon, but the loop trail is the most attractive one.   Along this way, you will discover 25 historical limestone cliff residents where the Sinagua people were staying in the past.   5. Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument  Have you ever heard of a volcano eruption? The Sunset Volcano National Monument is a place in Flagstaff where you can discover the eruption of volcanoes.   Around 900 years ago, a massive volcano eruption shook the city. In this eruption, a significant volume of lava was released and dispersed over 4 miles and coated 800 + acres of land in ash and rock fragments.  It’s been a long time since this eruption happened, but today, you can still find evidence of the violent and destructive events that occurred. The crater gives you a perfect hiking trail to explore the three lava flows.   However, certain areas of the crater are not permitted to be explored for safety reasons. Head to the visitor center, where you can learn about the volcano eruption and how it affected the region. Many visitors recommend exploring the crater, which is one of the best things to do in Flagstaff.  6. Wupatki National Monument  Among other National Monuments, the Wupatki is one of the most famous monuments in America. However, this monument is abandoned but safeguarded by the Hopi clans. They tell the lifestyle and stories about their ancestors. To their beliefs, people at that time died here and remained as spiritual guides.   If you want to discover the rich American history, then visiting the Wupatki National Monument is one of the best things to do in Flagstaff. Ancient Pueblo people built this monument.    It has three buildings and 29 structures in an area of 35,000 acres (about half the area of Athens, Georgia). I didn’t get a chance to explore the place with the rangers when I visited. But if your luck is good, you might have an opportunity to discover the monument with the rangers. You can hike to some parts of the monument.  7. Arizona Snowbowl Scenic Chairlift  Riding the scenic chairlift to see the Arizona Snowbowl and the San Francisco Peaks is one of the most interesting things to do in Flagstaff. If you’re planning your trip in the autumn (that’s from October to December), you’ll enjoy the scenic chairlift ride. In this season, the landscape of Arizona showcases different colors and is truly mesmerizing.  When you reach the top, you will gain some information about the place from the rangers. They offer you knowledge on various topics such as the habitats of the region, geology, and history. Apart from this, you can enjoy adventurous activities like snowboarding, walking on the trails, and skiing.   8. Exploring the Lowell Observatory is one of the Unique Things to Do in Flagstaff  Lowell Observatory offers you the opportunity to get a view of space through telescopes. Do you know that this is the place where Pluto was discovered?   Here, you will find the original telescope that was used to discover the planet Pluto. Now, it is a working research center that is open to visitors to learn about space, the universe, galaxies, etc.  I would say visiting the Lowell Observatory is one of the most exciting things to do in Flagstaff. The observatory also hosts different special programs that allow you to meet an astronomer or attend different events, such as meteor showers.  9. Flagstaff Extreme Adventure Course  Do you like adventurous or challenging activities? Taking a rope drive on the zip lines in the Forthfill Country Park will pump your adrenaline. This spot will give you a thrilling experience by suspending between the trees.   I had a fear of heights, and it was really challenging for me, but I really enjoyed the rope drive. Trust me, this is one of the most adventurous things to do in Flagstaff, in my opinion.   If you travel in a group or alone, you can enjoy different adventure courses, from walking on the ropes to swinging between the trees. This place offers a different level of activities for adults and kids.  10. Camping At Lockett Meadow  This is the most beautiful place to visit on the list of things to do in Flagstaff. This is a fantastic place in the Coconino National Forest, inside Flagstaff. If you want to visit this place, one day is not enough and, fortunately, you can enjoy camping here.  The best time to visit this place is all year round because you’ll have a different experience in every season. You’ll find the ash tree leaves turning yellow in the summer, and the whole place looks amazing. Meanwhile, in spring, the entire meadow is full of flowers.  11. Museum of Northern Arizona  This is a place where you can learn about the history of Flagstaff. The museum is built on lava stone. It allows you to discover the dinosaurs, the geology of Northern Arizona, and the ancient people who lived there. In my opinion, this is a place that you should never miss if you ever travel to Flagstaff.   Here, you will learn about the history, biology, arts, geology, and many other things about Northern Arizona. Along with that, the museum has a central garden that shows different species of plants in the area. Visiting the museum can give you some knowledge about this place. It is one of the best things to do in Flagstaff.   Why Is Flagstaff Called a Dark City?   Flagstaff became the official “Dark City” in 2001. On 24th October 2001, it was named the “First International Dark Sky City” because of the unforeseen work it did to preserve the natural resources of the night sky.   The preservation effort was to ensure economic security and public safety. Also, it was instrumental in ensuring Flagstaff’s position as a “premiere astronomic site” in the world. In addition, it was an expression of community values.   You can even watch the Milky Way in Flagstaff, and the view is stellar. If the weather is good, you will see the stars shooting one after another.   Bon Voyage!  Hopefully, you’ve found some useful travel ideas and unique things to do in Flagstaff. From my experience, I recommend that you plan your trip from October to December.   To explore every place on the list and have a memorable experience, plan your tour for 10 to 15 days (about 2 weeks). As I mentioned above, you’re going to explore the National Monuments, a few parks, and more. Hiking, snowboarding, skiing, and rope driving are some of the outdoor activities you’ll enjoy on your Flagstaff tour.  Also read Beginner Tips For Your First Camino de Santiago. Ultimate Guide to Your Next Family Vacation in Israel. Boat Charter Miami: Essential Tips for a Great Experience.

BY  Sibashree Jan 27, 2022

Tulum, with its versatility, remains one of the top attractions in Mexico. It has well-preserved Mayan ruins overlooking the Caribbean Sea.  Furthermore, it nurtures a hippie lifestyle with boutique eco resorts and trendy beach clubs.  It also offers the right fusion of relaxation and adventure with its natural sinkholes or cenotes. Moreover, it has a vibrant nightlife, and you can even plan a 30-minute ride by road to reach Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Again, from bull shark diving to kitesurfing, the adventure options in Tulum are endless. So, in today’s article, I will talk about the unique things to do in Tulum and my experience in this Pre-Columbian Mayan walled city.  What Are The Best Things To Do In Tulum? Tulum is a place that allows you to swim with sharks and discover the ancient Mayan ruins. Furthermore, it is a popular travel destination because of its accessibility.  The last time I visited, I reached the Cancun International Airport (CUN) and then took a drive of around 2 hours to reach Tulum.  However, you can even travel to the new Tulum Airport (TQO) and then enjoy a 40 km drive to downtown.  And once you reach Tulum, you can include all these activities in your itinerary.  1. Bull Shark Diving Have you ever dreamed of swimming with sharks and becoming one with the underwater species? An experience like bull shark diving may make your blood freeze at first, but you’ll soon realize that it’s a thrilling yet pleasant adventure. Bull shark scuba diving is a popular underwater adventure in Riviera Maya that both tourists and locals love to enjoy.  Playa del Carmen, around 45 minutes away from Tulum, is the best place for bull shark diving.  January to February is the peak season for bull shark diving here, and you can spot from 5 to more than 15 bull sharks during this time.  You will need an Advanced Open Water certification to be a part of this bull shark diving. Also, the diving charge will be around $250-300.  Moreover, remember you chances of getting into the water and spotting sharks also depend on the present weather conditions. Also, if you are planning deeper, multi-day dives, you will need nitrox.  2. Cenote Scuba Diving You can do cenote scuba diving in Playa de Carmen or Tulum. However, you must also note that there are more than a thousand cenotes in the Yucatan Peninsula.  Furthermore, all cenotes in Tulum are not the same. Some look like full-fledged caves, and some even like small pools.  Dive into various complex, intertwined passages connecting underground cenotes and discover the beautiful networks. Your scuba diving abilities will truly be put to the test, and you’ll experience one of the most exciting feelings ever. In order to participate in this adventure, you’ll need a scuba diving certification. It’s worth planning ahead and obtaining the necessary licensing before your Tulum trip if you want to participate in this amazing water activity 3. Take A Kitesurfing Tour Kitesurfing is another popular water sport that has won the hearts of many enthusiasts around the world. You can ride the waves and enjoy your time in kitesurfing paradise on a Tulum trip and hop on a safe kitesurfing experience and a private lesson with a professional instructor.  The beaches are truly awesome, and the lagoons are big and salty. The waters of the Caribbean Sea are crystal clear, which only makes the adventure even more enjoyable and magnificent. You’ll be able to ride in front of ancient Mayan ruins and discover secret virgin beaches, which are only known to the locals. 4. A Night Dive With Crocodiles For most people, crocodiles are scary creatures that you don’t want to be near in any circumstance. However, adrenaline seekers are an interesting species that is worth exploring up close. On a Tulum trip, you can make your dreams come true and get close to crocodiles with a night dive in the company of an instructor. Snorkel with crocodiles - one of the world’s most astonishing creatures and get to know their behavior in their natural habitat at night time.  The good news is that you can also observe other species like frogs, shads, and other animals that live in the same habitat and are awake at night. The adventure is unmatched as you can get a high dose of adrenaline, you can witness a beautiful sky full of stars, and test your senses with something completely new. You don’t have to worry about safety as taking part in this activity with a professional team means that all protection will be provided. 5. Explore the beauty of turtles Last but not least, there is something for those who want to get to know the beautiful underwater creatures but find crocodiles a bit too thrilling. If you’re passionate about nature and are excited to meet new species, you should certainly hop on a turtle exploration in Tulum trip.  From May to October, most of Tulum’s coastline enters the sea turtle nesting season. You can witness mother turtles gently making their way to lay their eggs after sunset. You can snorkel with turtles, get to know them in their comfort zone and embrace their beauty to the fullest. 6. Discover the Mayan ruins And just because we shouldn’t forget that the Tulum trip is not just all about the waters, we highly recommend visiting the astonishing Mayan ruins that will take you back through time.  Tulum has a vibrant history, some of which has been preserved for travelers and locals to experience in today’s modern world. The Mayan ruins in Tulum and Coba are not just a gem to look at but also offer a great amount of cultural value and can show you how different the town was in previous years before it became a top tourist destination. Conclusion: Your Tulum trip could certainly become the trip of a lifetime, as long as you plan ahead and are prepared for all that you could take advantage of. We hope that this list will come in handy and will help you organize the perfect vacation to Tulum. Read Also: Valladolid Mexico: Exploring The City That Was Built In 1543 Wander to Beautiful Locales on the Best Caribbean Cruises! 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BY  Abdul Aziz Jun 8, 2023

No one likes staying home for the summer. Your summer holidays are the best time to get out there and explore what is happening worldwide. If you’re eager to play tourist, you should check out Gatlinburg this summer. This popular tourist destination, located in Tennessee, is well-loved by millions of tourists all over the world. Gatlinburg is a quaint little town located near the Smoky Mountains National Park. So when tourists feel like visiting this impressive Tennessee monument, they often stop by Gatlinburg. Once you arrive here, there is much to do, from attractive sites to see to delicious food that will leave your taste buds singing. Choosing the right season to visit Gatlinburg makes all the difference to your holiday, and here are some reasons why you should go in the summer: Gatlinburg Is Brimming With Activities Gatlinburg knows how to keep tourists entertained throughout the year. If you stop by in the summer, you will witness many events that will make your trip memorable. Whether you want to visit the Ober Gatlinburg, zip line at the Anakeesta, or walk across the Sky lift Park bridge, these top attractions in Gatlinburg are waiting for your arrival with comfortable accommodations. But, if you want to wind down and enjoy the open air, Gatlinburg also has a selection of live events to experience. One of these noteworthy events is the Barbecue and Bluegrass event which is held at Dollywood in Pigeon Forge. Gatlinburg is roughly fifteen minutes away from Pigeon Forge, so you don’t need to book plane tickets to get there. The Barbecue and Bluegrass Festival runs from May 25th to June 10th and is a delicious combination of two Southern traditions, BBQ and live bluegrass music. While attending this event, you will feast on mouthwatering barbecue dishes such as smoked chicken, pulled pork, and brisket. After you’ve stuffed yourself to your heart’s content, you can enjoy live Bluegrass music. This genre of American roots music features close harmony and heartfelt notes, so don’t be surprised if you start swaying to the rhythm. The Best Time To Hike Take advantage of the summer and go for a hike in Gatlinburg. The Smoky Mountains National Park is a sight to be held during the warm weather. You will have a chance to smell the blooming flowers, gaze at the wildlife roaming away from the tourists, and observe the impressive trees that populate this park. Hiking is also much more manageable in the summer. If you try accessing these trails during the winter, the snow will make it hard to thread on them. The Smokies has over 800 tracks for you to try, some of which include the Abrams Falls, Porters Creek, and Big Creek trails. Abrams' Fall is one of the most notable waterfall hikes. The whole trip is about 5 miles long and is the ideal route if you’re new to hiking. Along your journey, you will encounter a 20 feet high waterfall which is soothing to look at, refreshing to feel on your skin. On the other hand, if you opt for the Porters Creek Trail, the entire route is about 4 miles long. During the first mile, you will have to use the gravel road that lines the banks of the creek as water flows in thick streams around you. As you progress, you will catch views of the old remains of the communities that settled in Porters Creek in the 1900s. These include their farmstead and their graveyard. Another mile, and you will run into the spectacular 40-foot waterfall known as the Fern Branch Falls. Before you start hiking, ensure you have all the essential items you need to make this endeavor possible. This includes the proper boots, a map, water bottles, spare clothes, and a first aid kit. The Cabins Are Affordable Cabins are by far the coziest and best option when it comes to vacation rentals. These lodgings offer far more privacy than the average hotel for half the price. Most cabins also have amenities like a jacuzzi, a home theater, and a fully stocked kitchen. So what better time to enjoy these perks than during peak summer? Additionally, if you get a cabin near the lake, you’ll hear the gentle flow of water, soft chirps of insects and smell all the flowers blooming near your accommodations. At night, you can come out for a session of stargazing and enjoy the warmth of the night air. Cabins are also far more affordable in the summer than in any other season. This is because they’re more accessible when the weather is warm, and you don’t have to pay extra to clear off the snow to make a path to walk on. Great Time For Fishing Gatlinburg is home to numerous lakes and fishing streams where you can try your luck and gauge if you’re an expert angler. In the summer, fish come to the surface early morning. While in the afternoon, they swim about in large schools, increasing the probability of you reeling one in. Fishing is therapeutic. It can help you shut off your mind and allows you to relish the cool water body beneath your boat. If you happen to visit Gatlinburg with your family, fishing proves to be the ultimate bonding experience. You will never forget the precious moment of teaching your child to hold a fishing rod, guiding them on baiting a fish, and watching the smile on their face when they emerge successful. Try visiting the Horseshoe fishing spot at Cades Cove near Upper Abrams Creek. This region is known for its rainbow trout, about an eight to twelve-inch-long fish. Although you may have slight difficulty in accessing this zone since there aren’t nearby trails that can safely take you to the Horseshoe, with a little perseverance, you can still access the water. Moreover, if you want a picturesque lake, visit the Little River at Elkmont. This is a large stream that you can access from the roadside. But, if you’re willing to work, a further two-mile hike up the creek through the Little River Trail can give you a front-seat view of both rainbow and brown trout, which are a joy to catch. Final Thoughts Spend your holidays this summer by visiting Gatlinburg. The warm Tennessee weather and hospitality of the locals will beckon you to visit. Gatlinburg is popular among tourists for the right reasons. It has exciting restaurants, breathtaking views, and hiking trails that you should explore. Furthermore, you can’t deny this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity of seeing the Smokies up close. This park is Tennessee’s most significant treasure and is responsible for keeping the tourist industry alive. You can also try your hand at activities that are not usually available all year round, like fishing. Nothing beats a successful fishing expedition when you bring home a prized trout. So, what are you waiting for? Visit Gatlinburg now! Read Also: The Perfect Destination For Adventure Enthusiasts In Jamaica- Yaaman Adventure