Kootenay National Park Or The Land Of Ice And Fire (Experiencing Nature’s Game Of Contrasts)

Sep 12, 2024

No, it’s not the battle of the Starks, Lannisters, and other houses of Westeros. In Canada lies Kootenay National Park, the actual land of ice and fire. The glacier-made canyons and valleys sing the song of the ice, while the hot springs and grasslands keep the “fire” element alive here.

Also, the national park is a hub of ancient fossils, encouraging walks through the fossil trails. Moreover, you can take a scenic drive through the park, rich in Indigenous culture, history, architecture, and cultural landscape.

So, do you want a virtual tour of this Canadian national park? THIS is where your journey begins!

THESE Are The Things You Will Do At Kootenay National Park

With no cell service available in Kootenay National Park, you can get lost in the wilderness and explore the most fascinating landscape. However, being respectful to the wildlife is a must for this national park. This August, I came across disturbing news while doing my research on Kootenay National Park.

I have been in touch with a local from Radium Hot Springs for quite some time now. He told me that a grizzly bear coming out of Kootenay National Park was almost struck by an SUV on 19th August 2024.

This incident occurred on a busy highway in southeastern British Columbia, and fortunately, the Kia Sportage SUV made its way to the other side safely. Further, it was a lesson on why following the safety guidelines is crucial while driving in and around the Kootenay National Park.

On the major routes of Kootenay National Park, you will have to maintain a maximum speed of 56 mph.
However, on the minor routes, the highest driving speed limit will be 37 mph.

Also, around one month before the incident, on 24th July 2024, there was a minor fire in the Sinclair Canyon slopes (near Radium Hot Springs) of the national park. It was called the Berland Ridge wildfire. This fire was under control thanks to a helicopter bucketing water on it.

However, outside the park’s southern boundary, there was a blazing fire that was brought under control after pain-stricken efforts.

So, these incidents show how mindful and cautious you need to be while taking part in the following activities.

Hiking In Kootenay National Park (Hikers’ Favorite Trails)

The hiking trails in Kootenay National Park are full of elevation gains and losses. Also, today, the national park has more than 70 hiking trails at easy, moderate, and difficult levels.

However, I have curated a few hiking trails in the table below. After interacting with a couple of hikers, I found out that these are the ones most preferred.

Name of the Trail	Difficulty Level	Distance	Location	Highlights
Marble Canyon	Easy	1.4 Km with 42 M Elevation Gain	Located near Lake Louise, Alberta	Hiking, snowshoeing, and running are the favorite activities here. It is a pet-friendly and kid-friendly trail. It is a year-long hiking trail.
Stanley Glacier Trail	Difficult	10.9 Km with 607 M Elevation Gain	Located near Lake Louise, Alberta	Snowshoeing, camping, and hiking are popular activities on this trail. You can take your dog as a company. June to September is the best time to hike this trail.
Sinclair Canyon via Juniper Trail	Moderate	5.8 Km with 291 M Elevation Gain	It is close to Radium Hot Springs in British Columbia.	You will have to hike through a beautiful cedar fir forest on this trail. The view of verdant Sinclair Canyon Falls and the Columbia Valley from this trail is breathtaking.
Marble Canyon to Paint Pots	Moderate	2.9 Km with 110 M Elevation Gain	Radium Hot Springs (Marble Canyon Parking Lot – 89 km east of Radium Hot Springs, Paint Pots – 86 Km east of Radium Hot Springs).	Explore a good mix of mature and burnt forest throughout the trail. Behold the Vermillion River running parallel to the trail.
Floe Lake	Difficult	10.5 Km with 1,110 M Elevation Gain	Near Radium Hot Springs (72 Km East)	Backpacking and camping are popular activities on this trail. The trail leads to the Floe Lake Backcountry campground. This popular meadowy trail is known for its views of peaks, glaciers, and the beautiful Floe Lake.
Numa Creeks	Moderate	6.3 Km with 385 M Elevation Gain	The trailhead is near the Numa Falls, which is 80 Km east of the Radium Hot Springs.	It is a forested trail. The trail leads to heavy avalanche paths in the park.

The hikers’ words about the trails in this national park are quite encouraging. Let’s find out what they are saying about the mesmerizing hiking trails.

“This is a beautiful, deep canyon hike. The trail crosses the canyon multiple times to view the ferocious Kootenay river below. Hiking boots aren’t necessary since it is a well-traveled trail.” – Deborah Turcotte on the Marble Canyon Trail

“The trail was mostly dry and in very good condition. No snow on the trail, just a few short wet spots. Trek up is mostly sheltered but a bit chilly and windy in the bowl so bring layers as the temp changes quickly when the sun is behind clouds. Still lots of snow in the bowl. Found one rock with fossils. There are a few small waterfalls on Stanley Peak. Lots of boulders at the base of the bowl to sit and enjoy a lunch and 360 views. An easy to moderate 3-4 hour hike with nice views of Stanley Peak, Storm Mtn, and the Kootenay Valley.” – Sue W on the Stanley Glacier Trail

Kootenay National Park Camping

Kootenay National Park is a wonderful place for frontcountry and backcountry camping. You can even live in oTENTiks and spend some unforgettable days in the park under the sky.

Frontcountry Camping

You can camp near the Vermillion, Kootenay, and Simpson rivers. Also, you can find some quiet spots near Radium Hot Springs village.

Summer is the best season for front-country camping in the national park. However, the sites remain crowded. So, you must go for a prior booking.

Further, the daytime temperature in the national park remains between 16-23 degrees centigrade. Still, the temperature at night can drop below 0 degrees centigrade. So, abiding by the camping rules is crucial, and especially, be particular about the things you will have to carry.

Moreover, like camping in any national park, here also you have to ensure that you don’t leave any trace behind as you leave the site.

Backcountry Camping

Backcountry camping and backpacking are the best ways to explore the wilderness of this Canadian national park. However, you must make a prior booking and carry a backcountry permit if you want to spend some days and nights amidst grizzly bears, black bears, wolves, elks, and cougars.

Further, there are six backcountry camping grounds in the park, five of which are located along the Rockwall Trail. The Verdant Creek Trail has the sixth camping ground.

Random camping is not allowed during summer, as protecting the landscape and vegetation is crucial. This restriction applies from May to October.

However, in the winter months, you can do random camping in the designated areas. You will still need a permit for this. As I have mentioned, the Rockwall trail is the most prominent place for backcountry camping in the park. This site is also popular for the presence of various multi-day hiking trails. These trails are:

Honeymoon Pass and Verdant Creek
Tumbling – Floe
The Rockwall
Tumbling – Helmet – Ochre Loop
Numa Creek
Helmet Creek and Falls
Tumbling Creek
Helmet – Ochre Junction

In the popular backcountry camping areas, the trails are maintained quite well. Further, there will be amenities like food storage cables, food lockers, picnic tables, and tent pads.

Living in oTENTik

An oTENTik is a modern fusion of a cabin and a tent. In the park, you will find the oTENTik site on the Redstreak campground’s A loop.

If you stay in an oTENTik, you will wake up amidst nature, and taking a bath at the hot springs will be the most rejuvenating experience. Then, you can explore the nearby hiking trails and gorge on traditional meals cooked in the campfire.

Relaxing At Radium Hot Springs

Beneath the colorful Sinclair Canyon mountains lie the most refreshing hot springs. Further, the mineral-rich water of the hot springs does not have any odor, and you can take a bath with your entire family.

To reach the Radium Hot Springs, you must drive from Banff and Lake Louise for around 1.5 hours. Further, the journey is as interesting as the destination, as you will get to small turquoise lakes, falls, canyons, and bridges over rivers as you drive through the Kootenay National Park. Also, don’t forget to stop at the following locations to make the most of your journey.

Continental Divide (The line diving the Pacific and Atlantic watersheds)
Marble Canyon Hike
Paint Pots Trail
Numa Falls
Kootenay Valley Viewpoint (It is the place to get the most beautiful view of Vermilion and Mitchell Ranges.)
Olive Lake Trail and Day-Use Area

However, the highlight of the journey, of course, is the Sinclair Canyon, where you will also find big horn sheep roaming. As you hike through the Juniper / Sinclair trail, you will get a “bird’s eye view” of Sinclair Canyon.

Further, as you enter the Radium Hot Springs village, you will see an iconic steel horn sculpture. The “Bighorns Public Art Sculpture” was officially unveiled on 7th April 2021. Moreover, Clara Reinhardt, the mayor of Radium in 2021, said,

“We chose something that implies a sense of arrival to Radium, the Columbia Valley, and beyond. We captured the undeniable natural beauty of the curved horns through a Fibonacci spiral—the golden ratio in nature and art.”

“We wanted to create a piece of art that speaks to both the history and the future of bighorn sheep in Radium. We captured the undeniable natural beauty of the curved horns through a Fibonacci spiral—the golden ratio in nature and art.”
– Adam Meikle (Artist of the Bighorns Public Art Sculpture)

Burgess Shale Fossil Hike

The Burgess Shale Fossil Hike in the national park will give you access to Mount Stephen and Walcott Quarry. These are UNESCO Restricted Sites. Further, you will get to see some of the oldest fossils in the world here.

However, in total, you have three routes to explore in the Burgess Shale Fossil Hike. Let’s discuss them in detail.

Walcott Quarry

Starting Point: Takakkaw Falls

Difficulty Level: Difficult

Elevation Gain: 825 Meters

Duration: 11 Hours

Return Distance: 22 Kms

Walcott Quarry is a classic example of a fossil hike. Also, the top view of the Emerald Lake from here is amazing. Further, you will find Burgess Shale creatures here, which were found in fossilized conditions at the mountaintop in the Yoho National Park.

“The Burgess Shale organisms lived 508 million years ago in a time period that Geologists call the Cambrian, which began at 541 Ma (million years ago) and ended by 485.4 Ma. The first fossil occurence of most animal lineages (at the phylum and class levels) occur in the Cambrian. As a result of this fact, and because the fossils are well preserved, Paleontologists studying the Burgess Shale fossils can deduce a great deal about the ancestory of animal lineages.”

The Burgess Shale fossils were discovered at the Walcott Quarry site in 1909 by Charles Doolittle Walcott. ¹

Mount Stephen

Difficulty Level: Difficult

Elevation Gain: 795 Meters

Duration: 7.5 Hours

Return Distance: 9 Kms

As you hike through the Mount Stephen trilobite beds, you will get to overlook the “town of Field” in British Columbia. Railway workers in the 1880s used to call the town of Field the space of “stone bugs.”

Further, during this trek, you will see trilobite fossils (now extinct and one of the earliest marine arthropods), and the view of the Kicking Horse River from the trail is amazing.

Stanley Glacier

Difficulty: Moderate

Return Distance: 10 km

Elevation Gain: 385 m

Duration: 7.5 hours

You will start hiking the Stanley Glacier in a fire-swept forest. The forest has lodgepole pine and wildflowers. Further, along your route, you will get to see a turquoise river, waterfalls, and the best view of the Stanley Glacier.

Moreover, you will get to see the fossils of hyolithids, sponges, trilobites, and sponges here, and they are from the Eldon Formation.

Cambroraster, an ancient arthropod, and many other species are found in the quarry near the Stanley Glacier.
Further, the shell of a Cambroraster looks like the Millennium Falcon spaceship in its shape.

Important Kootenay National Park Data At A Glance

Before you start for the Kootenay National Park, don’t forget to have a look at the stats.

Location: British Columbia, Canada
Established: 21st April, 1920
Area: 1,406 km²
Highest Landscape: Deltaform Mountain (3,102 m)
Designation: UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984 (As Part of the “Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks )
Visitor Center: Kootenay National Park Visitor Centre (7556 Main Street East; Radium Hot Springs, B.C.)
How to Reach: Via Highway 1 from Banff, AB or Calgary, AB/Via Highway 95 at Radium Hot Springs, BC

Also Read

The Burgess Shale Geoscience Foundation – Established in 1993, The Burgess Shale Geoscience Foundation is a non-profit organization. It works to educate people about geosciences. ↩︎

Sibashree Bhattacharya

Meet Sibashree Bhattacharya, a travel enthusiast who has a decade-long experience in transcending virtual barriers with her words! Her deep love for travel is apparent from her travel escapades to the mountain, often taking her readers on a journey, her words acting as Portkey! Fun fact: Sibashree loves to dive deep into the history of the places she is about to visit, making her travels even more wholesome. If you were wondering how her articles are not short of time travel, this answers it!

Ways To Reduce The Carbon Footprint When Sailing

BY Mony ShahSep 20, 2023

Sailing is a timeless and exhilarating way to traverse the world's waterways, offering a unique connection with nature and the elements. However, like many activities, sailing contributes to carbon emissions and environmental degradation. As the world grapples with the consequences of climate change, sailors and sailing enthusiasts must adopt sustainable practices to minimize their carbon footprint. Here Are 10 Crucial Steps To Reduce The Carbon Footprint When Sailing In this comprehensive guide, we will explore various strategies and techniques to help reduce the environmental impact of sailing while preserving the beauty of our oceans and water bodies. 1. Choose Sustainable Sailing Vessels The first step in reducing your carbon footprint when sailing is to choose a vessel that aligns with sustainability goals. Modern sailboats come in various designs, and many now incorporate eco-friendly features. Look for boats with energy-efficient systems, such as electric or hybrid propulsion, solar panels, and wind turbines. These innovations can significantly reduce your reliance on fossil fuels. 2. Practice Efficient Sailing Techniques Efficiency in sailing not only enhances your enjoyment but also reduces your carbon footprint. Here are some techniques to consider: ● Optimise Sail Trim: Properly trim your sails to capture the wind efficiently. This increases your speed and reduces the need for auxiliary propulsion.● Sail in the Right Wind Conditions: Choose your sailing days wisely. Sailing in optimal wind conditions allows you to use your sails more effectively and reduces engine usage.● Avoid Overloading: Keep your sailboat's weight within its recommended limits. Overloaded boats are less efficient and require more power to move.● Sail More, Motor Less: One of the most effective ways to reduce your carbon footprint while sailing is to rely on wind power as much as possible. Whenever conditions permit, sail instead of using the engine. Sailors often describe the sensation of harnessing the wind's energy as one of the most rewarding aspects of the sport. 3. Plan Efficient Routes Careful route planning can significantly reduce fuel consumption and emissions. Consider the following when planning your sailing trips: ● Use Weather Forecasts: Utilise weather forecasts to plan routes that take advantage of prevailing winds and currents.● Avoid Unnecessary Detours: Plan direct routes between destinations to minimize the distance sailed and fuel consumed.● Opt for Downwind Sailing: Whenever possible, choose routes that allow you to sail downwind, as this requires less effort and engine power. 4. Maintain Your Sailboat Regular maintenance is essential for keeping your sailboat in peak condition and reducing its environmental impact. Well-maintained boats operate more efficiently and require fewer repairs. Ensure your boat's engine is regularly serviced to maintain optimal fuel efficiency and repair any leaks to prevent oil or fuel spills. 5. Reduce Energy Consumption Sailboats are equipped with various electrical systems, including navigation equipment, lighting, and communication devices. To reduce energy consumption: ● Switch to LED Lighting: Replace traditional bulbs with energy-efficient LED lighting to minimize power usage.● Use Energy-Conserving Appliances: Invest in low-power appliances to reduce your boat's energy consumption.● Manage Energy Consumption: Turn off unnecessary electronic devices and implement energy-saving practices aboard when not in use. 6. Sustainable Provisioning Provisioning for extended sailing trips often involves packaging and waste generation. Opt for sustainable and eco-friendly packaging for your supplies. Consider reusable containers and avoid single-use plastics whenever possible. 7. Responsible Waste Management Implement a rigorous waste management plan aboard your sailboat. Dispose of waste responsibly at designated facilities when you reach the port. Never discharge trash or wastewater into the ocean, as this contributes to pollution and harm to marine life. 8. Support Clean Marina Initiatives When choosing marinas and anchorages, support those that have adopted clean and sustainable practices. Many marinas now have programs in place to minimize their environmental impact, including recycling, wastewater management, and renewable energy usage. 9. Educate And Advocate Spread awareness about sustainable sailing practices among fellow sailors and the broader community. Advocate for environmentally responsible practices within the sailing community and encourage marinas and charter companies to adopt greener technologies and policies. 10. Use Yacht Charters Instead of Buying Opting for luxury yacht charters over purchasing one significantly reduces the carbon footprint by minimizing resource-intensive yacht manufacturing and maintenance. Charter companies often prioritize energy-efficient technologies and sustainable practices, while yacht ownership entails continuous resource consumption, high emissions, and substantial upkeep costs. You can also choose catamarans on your yacht charter, which rely on its sails, reducing its energy consumption. This choice promotes a more environmentally responsible approach to yachting, making it an eco-conscious and efficient way to enjoy luxury sailing experiences while mitigating environmental impact. Start Sailing Green Yachting offers a unique opportunity to explore the world's oceans in style and comfort, but it also comes with a responsibility to minimize its environmental impact. By making conscious choices, such as selecting sustainable yachts, adopting efficient sailing practices, and supporting eco-friendly yacht charters, you can enjoy your sailing experience while reducing your carbon footprint. In doing so, you contribute to preserving our planet's precious oceans and ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy the wonders of sailing. As you embark on your next adventure, remember that luxury and sustainability can coexist harmoniously, creating unforgettable memories on the high seas while preserving the natural beauty of our oceans for generations to come. Read Also: Paradise Found: Exploring Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica’s Tropical Gem! The 5 Most Historically Significant Buildings 3 Reasons To Consider A Cycling Vacation

Which Is The Best Time To Visit Mussoorie?

BY Shahnawaz AlamSep 23, 2022

There is nothing more peaceful than spending a holiday on a hill station. And when it comes to hill stations, you cannot be the queen of hill stations in India – Mussoorie. You can view Gun Hill from there. What’s more interesting is that you can visit Haridwar and Rishikesh within a few hour's distances. But, what is the best time to visit Mussoorie? If you are planning to pack your bag, then I can help you decide when to pack your bag. If you are ready for a holiday in the lap of the Himalayan foothills, then this article might be worth the read. When Is The Best Time To Visit Mussoorie? The ideal time for visiting Mussoorie, without a doubt, is the summer season. The month between April to July is ideal weather for seeing the beauty of Mussoorie. If you want, you can also choose the time between September and Mid-November. If you want to see the mist shrouding the Himalayans, then you cannot miss this time. You can visit any month. The question is not when is the best time to visit Mussoorie – Instead, how you want to see Mussoorie. The summer season offers bright and clear weather. The time between September to November is great if you are expecting a mist. But if you are expecting snowfall, then there is no better time than to visit Mussoorie in December. Anyways, whichever time you choose to visit Mussoorie, you will not be disappointed. Here are what you can expect if you visit Mussoorie at the three best times of the year: Summer (April to July) The most pleasing and the best time to visit Mussoorie is summer. Weather The temperature here remains around 11°C to 36°C. The day mostly remains cool and pleasing. But at night, Mussoorie gets colder during these months. If you want to take a long trek or climb the rock, then this is the best weather. It is perfect weather when the cool of the hill fights with the heat of the summer, creating pleasing weather to keep you at ease. Things To Do In Mussoorie In Summer Having a majestic view of the Kempty falls from the Gun Hills is the best thing you can do once in Mussoorie. You can also drive to the highest point of Mussoorie, La Tibba. Also, in the summer, Mussorries dresses itself up with its richest summer festival. Their folk dances and other cultural programs are great to take view of. Monsoon (July To September) No, this is not the best time to visit Mussoorie if you are looking for fun, hiking, and trekking. But, if you want to see Mussoorie shrouded in mist, then the monsoon is the best time for that. Weather The monsoon is cold and covers Mussoorie with a shroud of mist. You can see a foggy envelope covering the towns during the morning and the evening. The tourists are lesser in number, and calm and peace remain constant during this time. The temperature remains at 20°C and it can go up to 32 °C. Some roads remain closed, and all the greens remain washed and fresh during this time of the year. You can expect heavy rainfall almost every day. The color of the mountains will cleanse your soul. Things To Do In Mussoorie In Monsoon If you are visiting Mussoorie during the monsoon, then you must know that all the tourist spots are closed during this time. But, you can take part in local festivals like Olga and Hariayala. Winter (October to February) What is the best time to visit Mussoorie for snowfall? It is winter, without a doubt. You cannot expect it to snow in the summer. Also, if you want to see snowfall in Mussoorie, then you need to pack your bag from October to February. Weather The temperature goes down by 4°C. It can get really chilly. But you can also expect as high as 30°C during this time. The nights mostly get excessively cold – going down to sub-zero temperatures. The days during the winter are the best time to move around. But, as the evening approaches, it becomes colder. The nights are chilly. But, as the morning lightens up the mountain, it makes up for the perfect time to take a brisk walk around. Things To Do In Mussoorie In Winter Winter is the best time to visit Mussoorie if you want to see snowfall. The outworld appearance that Mussoorie takes during the winter is worth spending your money and time on. Everything is covered in snow and there are lots of winter activities you can do. The trekking trails remain open during this time. You Can also experience skiing in Mussoorie. You will see many tourists, but this time is crowded in Mussoorie. The most exciting part of staying in Mussoorie during the winter is Christmas. The celebrations here are wonderful and full of fun and happiness. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): I think you have found your answer about when to visit Mussoorie. However, here are some additional questions that I have answered. You can check them out if you are planning to visit Mussoorie. 1. How Many Days Is Enough For Mussoorie? Ans: You need to stay at least 2 to 3 days in Mussoorie if you are planning a trip. There are many great places to see. For instance, Lal Tibba, Kempty Falls, Company Garden, and Clouds End. You will need minimum of 2 days to visit all these places. 2. In Which Month Is There Snow In Mussoorie? Ans: You can expect snow in Mussoorie if you are visiting there from December to February. The weather remains snowy during this time of the year. 3. How Far Is Rishikesh From Mussoorie? Ans: You can go to Rishikesh from Mussoorie within a few hours of the journey. Rishikesh is only 74 km away from Mussoorie. Final words Anytime can be the best time to visit Mussoorie. But you must be aware of what you are expecting to see upon a visit there. The Queen of Hill Stations always welcomes you with her open arms. You can make it there at any time you want. But, if you want to see all the best tourist locations you need to choose the summer for a trip. I think all of your queries have been answered. If you have any further queries you can leave them in the comment section. Read Also : Best Time To Visit Himachal Pradesh – Himachal Pradesh Guide Top 7 Best Places To Visit In Darjeeling – Travel Guide Which Is The Best Time To Visit Nainital?

10 Fun Things To Do On A Vacation In Sevierville

BY ArnabAug 10, 2023

Sevierville, Tennessee, is a charming city nestled in the breathtaking beauty of the Great Smoky Ranges. With over 10 million people coming to Sevierville each year to enjoy a plethora of fun-filled activities, Sevierville is the ideal location for anyone seeking a unique and memorable vacation experience. Every traveler can find something to enjoy in the city of Sevierville, whether you want to engage in thrilling experiences or immerse yourself in the culture and music. Here Are Ten Prime Things To Do On A Vacation In Sevierville Discover Sevierville's top features as we guide you through a number of thrilling attractions that will make your trip genuinely unforgettable. 1. Go on the Zipline at Foxfire Mountain Adventures For adrenaline junkies seeking a thrill, Foxfire Mountain Adventures is the place to be. Home to the Goliath Zipline, this tourist attraction offers an exhilarating ride at speeds of up to 55 miles per hour! As you soar 475 feet off the forest floor, you are sure to make some amazing memories gliding through the lush green views from this one-of-a-kind vantage point. This two-hour zipline tour promises an unforgettable adventure for those seeking an adrenaline-pumping experience amidst the Smoky Mountains. 2. The Perfect Retreat after a long day After a long day full of adventure and excitement, you will need a place where you can kick back, relax, and enjoy some quality time with your friends and family. With over 1,459 hotels and places to stay, choosing the right hotel in Sevierville TN, can be taxing. However, looking at user reviews can streamline the decision-making process and help you to highlight the better choices for your stay. The Lodge at Five Oaks, for example, is voted number 1 on trip advisor and is an excellent choice for those looking for a stunning location with exceptional services. 3. Exciting Water Adventures at the Smokies’ Wilderness If you enjoy water parks, then Wilderness at the Smokies is a must-visit destination. This expansive resort boasts three distinct waterparks, offering a plethora of thrilling experiences for all ages. The "Wild Vortex," a near-vertical, looping body waterslide, will leave you breathless with excitement as you soar down at exhilarating speeds. The Timber Rattler is considered the longest tube slide in the entire state. It is further followed by the "Smokies Surf Rider," which gives you an ultimate surfing experience. It will guarantee hours of laughter, joy, and endless fun. Families with little adventurers can also head to "Cubs Climbing Den," an interactive playhouse designed to engage a younger demographic with the excitement of adventure. 4. Take a Selfie Around the Statue Of Dolly Parton A trip to Sevierville isn't complete without paying homage to the Queen of Country Music herself, Dolly Parton. Head to the Courthouse lawn at Sevier County, where a magnificent bronze statue of Dolly stands tall. Crafted by local artist Jim Gray over 30 years ago, this six-and-a-half-foot-tall sculpture is a tribute dedicated to the legendary performer's roots. 5. Discover Underground Beauty across Forbidden Caverns Delve into the fascinating world beneath the Earth's surface around Forbidden Caverns, boasting the most extended rare cave onyx wall. A guided tour will take you through a mesmerizing underground journey, passing unique formations with towered chimneys and grottos. 6. Animal Encounters at “Rainforest Adventures Discovery Zoo” Embark on a unique animal adventure offered by the classic Rainforest Adventures Discovery Zoo, home to more than 600 animals and representing over 130 species. Among the highlights are the adorable golden-headed lion tamarins, one of the smallest and rarest species of monkeys. Visitors can also meet other exotic creatures, such as African crested porcupines, poison dart frogs, and rose hair tarantulas. This fascinating zoo offers a rare opportunity to encounter and learn about diverse and rare creatures from around the world. 7. Breathtaking Panoramas from Clingmans Dome For nature enthusiasts and avid hikers, Clingmans Dome is an unmissable destination. Standing at 6,643 feet, it is the topmost point in and around the “Great Smoky Mountains National Park,” Tennessee, and along the entire Appalachian Trail. A short but steep paved trail leads to an observation tower, offering a sweeping 360-degree perception of the majestic Smoky Mountains and beyond. If there are clear days, one might be able to view the nearby vistas stretching more than 100 miles across all directions. Embrace the serenity of the surrounding wilderness as you stand at this remarkable peak, taking in the vastness of nature's beauty. 8. Exciting Baseball Action at Smokies Stadium Sports enthusiasts will find themselves at home in Sevierville with a visit to Smokies Stadium. Watch the Tennessee Smokies, the “Double-A Affiliate” belonging to the Chicago Cubs, in action at this friendly ballpark. What sets it apart is the timeless inspiration from Wrigley Field; the stadium provides an intimate setting to maximize closeness with the game and players. Between innings, enjoy outdoor games and activities to keep the excitement going. An afternoon at Smokies Stadium promises a memorable experience, celebrating America's favorite pastime. 9. Explore Ancient Treasures at Smoky Mountain Relic Room History buffs and collectors will find their haven at the “Smoky Mountain Relic Room.” Step into a treasure trove of artifacts spanning over 3.5 billion years, representing various geological eras and human history. Browse through tons of relics as well as fossils, each with its own unique story to tell. From prehistoric fossils to ancient artifacts, this collection is guaranteed to ignite your curiosity and appreciation for the past. The epic Relic Room, nestled within “Smoky Mountain Knife Works,” also offers an impressive array of knives and blades, from historical pieces to modern marvels, making it a haven for collectors and outdoor enthusiasts alike. 10. Tennessee Museum of Aviation's Sky-high Adventure Sevierville is home to one of America’s most prominent aviation locations; the Tennessee Museum of Aviation! This marvelous location is home to hundreds of historical artifacts and exhibits that bring the fascinating history of flight to life. You can even climb into an A-4 Skyhawk Cockpit and look at the world through the eye of an experienced pilot. The aircraft collection at this museum is stunning in its own right! Featuring airworthy warbirds and vintage planes, this museum is the only one in the U.S. housing two airworthy P-47 Thunderbolts. Conclusion Tennessee's Sevierville offers visitors an unbeatable combination of breathtaking natural scenery, fascinating history, and exhilarating experiences. Everything about being here is exciting, from paying homage to the legendary Dolly Parton to flying through the treetops. ‘ Whether you are traveling with family or seeking solo adventures, Sevierville offers an abundance of unique experiences that will leave you with cherished memories for years to Read Also: Eight Outdoor Attractions In Pigeon Forge For Thrill-Seekers Your Guide To The Perfect Pigeon Forge Vacation Six Things To Do If You’re In Pigeon Forge

Kootenay National Park Or The Land Of Ice And Fire (Experiencing Nature’s Game Of Contrasts)

THESE Are The Things You Will Do At Kootenay National Park