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BY  Sibashree Aug 9, 2024

Wrangell-St. Elias, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an icy wonderland. It is a place where active volcanoes and the largest glaciers, like Malaspina, coexist, making it “A Song of Ice and Fire.”  It also has some of the greatest mountain ranges in the world and mighty rivers. Further, unique geological features and weather conditions have made the national park a land of biodiversity and wilderness with a lot of mammals, birds, fish, and plants.  Let me take you on a tour of the Wrangell-St. Elias glaciers and everything the national park has to offer.   What Are The Notable Glaciers In Wrangell-St. Elias?  Nabesna Glacier, Malaspina Glacier, and Hubbard Glacier are the most notable ones in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park.   Along with these glaciers, you can also see glacier features like glacier caves, Jökulhlaups, and ice falls. Let’s briefly discuss the major glaciers and glacier features.   Malaspina Glacier Did you know that Malaspina Glacier is the “largest Piedmont glacier in the world?” Designated as a National Natural Landscape in 1968, it spans across 1,075,409 acres.   Further, its glacial mechanisms and fluctuations have made it a favorite of explorers. The glacier is also a favorite of space travelers as it looks vibrant from space.   In an article published by NASA Earth Observatory on 27th October 2023, we can find,  “The dark blueish-purple lines on the ice are moraines—areas where soil, rock, and other debris have been scraped up by the glacier and deposited along its edges. The zigzag pattern of the debris is caused by changes in the ice’s velocity. Glaciers in this area of Alaska periodically “surge” or lurch forward for one to several years. As a result of this irregular flow, the moraines can fold, compress, and shear to form the characteristic textures seen on Malaspina.”  Hubbard Glacier  Hubbard, “the sleeping giant,” is the largest when it comes to the tidewater glaciers in North America (75 miles long). The glacier gets its name from Gardiner Hubbard, National Geographic Society’s first president.   Also called the “Galloping Glacier,” it comes with tranquil blue ice. You can explore Hubbard Glacier through a cruise trip.   Visiting the Hubbard Glacier becomes more exciting as you meet the sea otters, whales, sea lions, and bears along the route.   Nabesna Glacier  With a length of 53 miles, Nabesna Glacier is the “longest interior valley glacier” in the world. However, there are concerns regarding the loss of ice mass in the glacier. A 2007 report says,  “Nabesna, the largest glacier in this region (˜1056 km2), lost mass four times faster during 2000–07 than during 1957–2000. Although accelerated, the mass change over this region is slower than in other glacierized regions of Alaska, particularly those with tidewater glaciers.”  Glacier Features In Wrangell-St. Elias  You will come across many fascinating glacier caves in Wrangell-St. Elias, especially near the Kennecott Mines National Historic Landmark.   Further, ice falls, or the fountains of the glacier, move very fast, and it’s fascinating to see how they form seracs or blocks.   Also, there are Jökulhlaups, or flooded glacier outbursts, adding to the various glacier features of the national park.    Amazing Glaciers of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park Facts  Mount  St. Elias, the largest peak of the national park, is the second-highest in the world.  Mount Wrangell, the only active volcano here, is one of the largest active volcanoes in North America.  It has Nabesna Glacier, Malaspina Glacier, and Hubbard Glacier, three of the largest in the world.   It is a part of the “world's largest international protected wilderness.”  Mid-May to mid-September is the best time to visit this park.   Wrangell-St. Elias: A UNESCO World Heritage Site  Home to countless glaciers and many high mountains, Wrangell-St. Elias National Park enjoys the status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with Kluane, Glacier Bay, and Tatshenshini-Alsek.   Also, Wrangell-St. Elias National Park is a part of the “largest non-polar icefield in the world.” You will find Dall's sheep, grizzly bears, caribou, and many other animals roaming in this part of the world.   Further, certain geographical and biological factors and “protection and management requirements” make this national park a place of outstanding universal value. Let’s discuss them in detail.   Rich In Biodiversity  The scenic beauty and geological diversity in the park are outstanding. It has sea mammals and other aquatic animals. Further, you can see many land mammals, birds, and different types of trees in this park.   The table below mentions some of the most popular birds, trees, and animals you can see here.   Land Mammals Brown Bears Polar Bears Black Bears Mountain Goats Dall Sheep Bison Coyotes Wolverine Porcupine Sea Mammals and Other Marine Creatures Whales Sea Lions Porpoises Harbor Seals Sea Otters Plants (936 Vascular Plant Species) Sedge Family Grass Family Sunflower Family Trees Willows Various Introduced Species Birds Bald Eagles Canada Geese Trumpeter Swans Wilson's Warblers American Robins  Home to boreal forest, Wrangell-St. Elias has one of the largest ecosystems in the world. Diverse geological features and unique weather conditions support this sprawling ecosystem or biodiversity.   Comes With Topographical Diversity   This national park is one of the most diverse in its topographical features. It has glaciers, rivers, river canyons, volcanoes, snow-capped mountains and whatnot!   Geomorphological features like hanging valleys, moraines, craters, and calderas also make this national park unique.   A Hub Of Active Tectonic, Volcanic, Glacial, And Fluvial Natural Processes   Like the entire Alaska, Wrangell-St. Elias is also in an area where tectonic, volcanic, glacial, and fluvial natural processes are common.   So, it has active and inactive volcanoes, the largest glaciers, and some prominent fluvial landforms. It has the mighty Copper River, Rivers of Life, and braided rivers formed of glacier water.   Final Words   Wrangell-St. Elias National Park has the highest glacier coverage among all national parks in America. It also has the active Mount Wrangell volcano, rivers, and wetlands, making it a place of geological interest.   Exploring the glacier caves and the ice falls here is a one-of-a-kind experience, and it’s wonderful to see how the richest biodiversity with mammals, birds, aquatic animals, and trees thrives here.   So, come and experience the brilliance of nature as you explore the largest glaciers of the world’s largest glaciers, such as Malaspina and Hubbard.   Or have you already been to this land of volcanoes and glaciers? Don’t forget to share your experience of the glaciers of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park tours.    Wrangell-St. Elias National Park FAQs   How Many Glaciers Are In Wrangell-St. Elias National Park?  Like the entire Alaska, Wrangell-St. Elias is filled with glaciers. According to the latest count of the National Park Service (NPS), the Wrangell-St. Elias National Park has 3,121 glaciers. Further, these glaciers cover a whopping “6,757 square miles of land.”  So, Wrangell-St. Elias has glaciers that cover 60% of all the glacier coverage in American National Parks. Glacier Bay in Alaska is the distant second to Wrangell-St. Elias. The glacier coverage at Glacier Bay is just 1/5th of Wrangell-St. Elias.  In addition, Malaspina, Hubbard, and the Bering glaciers, located along the park’s southern margin, are three of the largest glaciers in the world.   Having said that, glacier coverage in Alaska is shrinking, and  Wrangell-St. Elias is not an exception. From 1985 to 2020, it has already experienced a 5% reduction in its glacier coverage.   How many People Visit Wrangell-St. Elias National Park Each Year?  The National Park Service has a record of visitors to Wrangell-St. Elias National Park since 1982. Since then, this park has been enjoying thousands of footfalls every year.  2023 was one of the topmost years in terms of number of people visiting  Wrangell-St. Elias. It had 78,305 visitors in 2023.  In 2020 (the Covid-19 era), the park had 16,655 visitors. From 2021, the number of visitors has increased consistently. (Source)  What Is Unique About Wrangell-St. Elias National Park?  With the largest glaciers and volcanoes in the world, Wrangell-St. Elias is unique because of its geographical features. It is also one of the most prominent hubs of biodiversity. Thanks to its extensive glacier and volcanic coverage and rich wildlife, it has earned the status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  Among glaciers, Hubbard (one of the largest in the world and the largest tidewater glacier in North America) and Malaspina Glacier demand a special mention.   The Mount Wrangell volcano in this park is still active, and some other volcanoes here are Mount Drum, Capital Mountain, Skookum Creek Volcano, etc.  Further, it has an endangered sea mammal, Steller Sea Lion, and other marine animals. Bears, mountain goats, and sheep are common land mammals roaming here.   Also, you will find birds like the American robins, Wilson's warblers, and dark-eyed junco in this national park.   What Is The Highest Peak In Wrangell-St. Elias?  Mount St. Elias is the highest peak in Wrangell-St. Elias. With a height of 18,008 feet, it is also the second-highest peak in North America.   Having said that, Wrangell-St. Elias National Park celebrates the presence of four major mountain ranges in the world. It has the eastern part of the Alaskan Range, St. Elias, Chugach, and Wrangell.   Why Is Wrangell-St. Elias Protected?  Wrangell-St. Elias is protected to “preserve and protect ecological integrity and heritage resources of a vast ecosystem in south-central Alaska, while providing for public use in a wilderness setting.”  So, it is protected to preserve the local geology and diversity of the landscape with glaciers, volcanoes, and wetlands. It is also a measure to preserve wildlife and its inhabitants. Also read Ultimate Guide to Your Next Family Vacation in Israel. Paris Transforming Historical Sites Into Olympic Venues. Whales And Sea Lions! Exploring Wildlife At Kenai Fjords National Park.

BY  Sibashree Mar 21, 2025

Nepal, a land of majestic peaks and fresh natural air is a dream destination for Trekkers around the World. Nepal holds the world's most prominent mountains and provides lasting trekkers with refreshing journeys through forests, tri-level fields, and snow-covered paths across its varied natural landscapes.  Nepal's many short trek routes like EBC, ABC, Manaslu Circuit Trek, Upper Mustang Trek and Annapurna Circuit Trek, let's all adventurous explore nature and culture in no amount of days. These five enjoyable Nepal treks below provide an excellent hiking experience over  just the time of two weeks.  1. Everest Base Camp Trek No journey can compare to the allure of Everest Base Camp Trek, one of Earth's most attractive hiking trails. As you travel up on this famous Moderate to Challenging difficulty level trail towards the heart of Khumbu, each step brings you closer to the world's highest mountain, Mount Everest. After landing in Lukla, travelers penetrate the Sherpa towns and dense rhododendron forests prior to crossing high altitude, glacier areas. As we move forward, Hikers reach Namche Bazaar, a lively mountain settlement with its delightful sights of prayer flags and teasing Everest views alongside Lhotse and Ama Dablam.  After this segment, the trail goes to Tengboche Monastery which preserves an old Buddhist heritage offering amazing views of Himalayan peaks. Starting the journey to Everest Base Camp tests your strength but promises you an icy and memorable encounter with High Mountain wilderness that carves into your memory. The Everest Base Camp trek runs for as little as a 12 day period even despite its steep environment and altitude. Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) represent ideal times for this trek as the stable weather in this time frame lets you see the mountains in their best light. If you want to skip some days to get aerial view of the Himalayas, you can take Everest Helicopter Tour which gives you 30 minute of stunning mountain views including the Everest. 2. Annapurna Circuit Trek The Annapurna Circuit route leads trekkers across Nepal's diverse landscapes, from subtropical forests bottoms then high-elevation meadows then ending at the edge of the Himalayan range. The route circles Annapurna Massif, offering awe-spiring views of peaks like Annapurna Dhaulagiri, and Machapuchare. The highlight of the trek is one of the world's highest trekking passes, Thorong La Pass (5,416m). The ascent here is tough, but despite the steep climb people reach the top feeling proud, enjoying breathtaking views across the horizon. While walking along the trails, hikers discover villages influenced of  Hindu and Tibetan Buddhist traditions blended, experiencing the warmth of the Gurung’s, Thakali, and Manang communities. Let’s not forget about Tatopani's natural hot springs. A dip here makes People experience relief from their tired muscles prior to heading to Poon Hill to witness one of the world's stunning sunrises over the Himalayas. This trek can be as long as 30 days, but we also have a 13 days route for this moderate to challenging Circuit trek. Advisable time periods would be March to May and September to November for an experience that is undisturbed by nature. 3. Manaslu Circuit Trek If you want to explore more remote and undisturbed trekking trails the Manaslu Circuit trek package stands out as a preferred route. The trek routes of the eight highest peaks in the World, Mount Manaslu (8163 meters) guides travelers through glacier rivers and scenic high-altitude passes. Unlike Everest and Annapurna, The Manaslu trail stands apart for it’s uncrowded and peaceful nature providing hikers perfect space for immersion in Nepal's unspoiled nature. The path follows original paths used by salt traders taking you through small Tibetan villages that have stayed true to their traditional ways since time immemorial. The most hard but fulfilling part is Passing through Larkya La La (5,106 meters) that requires physical fitness and endurance which results in incredible mountain views of Manaslu, Hiking Himal and neighboring peaks.  Trekkers find supreme enjoyment on the challenging Manaslu Circuit Trek. You need 14 days to complete this adventure and the advisable time period which offers optimal conditions would be from March to May and September to November. 4. Upper Mustang Trek This moderately difficult Upper Mustang Trek leads adventurers to Nepal's hidden land where trekkers encounter a stark contrast to Nepal's typical lush hillside regions. Also known as the “Last Forbidden Kingdom”, Mustang exists below the Annapurna range rain shadow, creating a beautiful desert-like landscape with deep canyons, eroded cliffs, and ancient caves. This trek feels like stepping in the past. This Ancient Tibetan territory holds centuries of Buddhist culture. Its many old monasteries, chorten temples, and traditional brick houses line its landscape. The walled fortress of Lo Manthang shows its whitewashed houses and royal palaces beside colorful fluttering prayer flags. The distinct features of this destination go beyond its special landscape. Mustang stayed hidden to foreign visitors until 1992, when they finally opened it to the public. The trek generally takes 14 days. The best experience would be between spring and autumn months, when the skies are clever and the weather dances mild. 5. Annapurna Base Camp Trek When seeking a quick but dazzling hiking adventure, the Annapurna Base Camp Trek represents an excellent choice.  In 14 days this trek brings trekkers deep into Annapurna Sanctuary, where a glacial amphitheater hosts Annapurna's peaks, including its main summit and four surrounding giants, Annapurna I, Annapurna South, Machapuchare, and Hiunchuli. The Annapurna region's lower slopes start with trails that run through cultivated fields, passing bamboo patches and traditional Gurung communities. Before the final ascent to the Annapurna Base Camp, hikers often stop to visit the Jhinu Danda for its natural hot springs.  This Moderate difficulty trek is indeed a little tough, but the 360-panorama view you'll get from here, that makes it all worth it.  The road to Annapurna Base Camp frequently links to Poon Hill, where trekkers enjoy the sunrise views above Annapurna and Dhaulagiri ranges. The trek is suitable for both intermediate and advanced walkers. To make the Hike even more memorable, advised seasons to visit would be Spring and autumn. Final Say No other nations on earth have trekking routes that match the legacy of the Himalayan routes of Nepal. Whether you dream of the mighty Everest Base Camp, wish to explore the hidden routes and valleys of Mount Manaslu and Upper Mustang, or want to dive into the rich culture of Annapurna region. There's a trek for it all. All these treks mentioned are perfect for the time saving Travelers who want an unforgettable Himalayan exploration during their brief vacations. Each one can be completed within two weeks. A short adventure that leaves a long and lasting impact on your memorial lane.

BY  Barsha Nov 9, 2022

Are you planning a trip to Austin anytime soon? Or are you currently sitting at Austin? Whatever it is, if you are on the search for vegan or vegetarian food in Austin, then you have arrived at the right destination. Because we are here to help you find the best vegan and vegetarian restaurants located in Austin. Keep reading and stick around to find out all the places you can’t miss out on while visiting Austin. Top 13+ Vegetarian Restaurants In Austin - All That You Need To Know: There are so many vegetarian and vegan options in Austin - we would suggest that you stop searching for ‘vegetarian restaurants near me’ and instead just scroll down for the best results - from vegan-friendly options to vegetarian restaurants creating killer taste pallets, there’s so much to explore in Austin! For now, keep reading and scroll down to find out which eateries you must visit! 1. Casa de Luz: Opening hours:7 am - 8:30 pm (Daily)Website: casadeluzContact:512-476-2535Address:1701 Toomey Rd, Austin, 78704 If you are looking for ‘vegetarian restaurants Austin,’ then Case de Luz is one place you cannot miss out. Best known for its plant-based, organic food, this place is tucked away on this side street if you go west from Zilker Park. The best part? You have to pay just one price for dinner, lunch, or even breakfast to enjoy the house buffet! 2. Bouldin Creek Cafe: Opening hours:7 am - Midnight (Monday - Friday) 8 am - Midnight (Saturday & Sunday)Website: bouldincreekcafeContact:512-416-1601Address1900 S 1st St, Austin, 78704 If you are typing on Google ‘best vegetarian restaurants Austin,’ then stop right now check out the Bouldin Creek Cafe. After first opening inside a small shack located on South 1st street, the cafe has always attracted guests who have now become regulars. However, you won’t find a shack anymore - the cafe is now located inside a big building, and locals can’t get enough of the all-day breakfast, amongst other delicacies. 3. Bistro Vonish: Opening hours:4 pm - 8 pm (Tuesday - Thursday)Noon - 9 pm (Friday & Saturday)10 am -2 pm & 6 pm - 8 pm (Sunday)Website: bistrovonishContact:203-982-7762Address701 E 53rd St, Austin, 78751 Bistro Vonish is one of those restaurants with vegetarian food for groups that you will fall in love with immediately - the moment you reach this North Loop truck, there’s no turning back from all their produces! Artfully and elegantly plated vegan dishes such as the Peach Molasses Glazed Shitcakes, Dairy-Meat-free versions of Kolaches, Pizzas, and delicious Sunday Brunches. 4. Swad: Opening hours:11:30 am - 9:30 pm (Daily)Contact:512-997-7923Address9515 N Lamar Blvd, Austin, 78753-4188 Swad is a vegetarian restaurant located in Austin, that specializes in South Indian cuisine. If you decide to check this place out, it’s best to take a friend with you so that you guys can try out their special Thali, accompanied by their huge Lentil Dosas entirely filled up with paneer, potatoes, and other veggies. 5. Koriente: Opening hours:11 am - 9:30 pm (Sunday - Friday)Website: korienteContact:512-275-0852Address621 E 7th street, Austin, 78701 Koriente happens to be one of the few vegetarian restaurants located in Downtown Austin, a neighborhood not known for healthy food options. A beacon of hope for both vegetarians and vegans, you cannot miss out on Koriente’s Mixmix Bibimbop, bowls made of stir-fried protein and veggies, or even their sticky rice. 6. Mr. Natural: Opening hours:8 am - 8 pm (Monday - Saturday)Website:mrnatural austinContact:512-477-5228Address1901 E Cesar Chavez St, Austin, 78702 Are you currently sitting at a hotel in Austin, typing ‘best vegetarian restaurants near me?’ - then look no more! Check out Mr. Natural, a healthy cafeteria and fast-casual bakery with two different locations. The best part? You can find both vegan and vegetarian food, along with several options that are gluten-free. 7. Mother's Cafe & Garden: Opening hours:11:15 am - 10 pm (Monday - Friday)10 am - 10 pm (Saturday & Sunday)Website:motherscafeaustinContact:512-451-3994Address4215 Duval St, Austin, 78751-4341 On your quest to find the iconic vegetarian restaurants in Austin, you can’t miss out on the classic Hyde Park restaurant, Mother’s Cafe & Garden, even if the name doesn’t pop up on your  ‘vegetarian friendly restaurants near me’ search. This cafe has been serving delectable plant-based dishes since the 1980s - you can’t miss out on their Artichoke Enchiladas or Mushroom Stroganoff. 8. BBQ Revolution: Opening hours:4 pm - Midnight (Thursday - Saturday)4 pm - 10 pm (Tuesday, Wednesday, & Sunday)Website:thebbqrevolutionContact:512-584-7659Address2421 Webberville Rd, Austin, 78702 Who said that Texas Barbecue is only meant for all meat lovers? BBQ Revolution proves every meat lover wrong by bringing vegetarian versions of barbeque - from No Bull Brisket to Tempeh Ribs and Smokey Curls, they have multiple options. Parked right outside Lost Well, BBQ Revolution is the friendly neighborhood food truck you were waiting for! 9. Conscious Cravings: Opening hours:11 am - 9 pm (Sunday - Thursday)11 am - 10 pm (Friday & Saturday)Website:consciouscravingsaustinContact:512-782-0546Address:1311 S 1st St, Austin, 78704 One of the best vegan friendly restaurants at Austin, Conscious Cravings, is a food truck specializing in creating 100% plant-based and fresh food. This practically means you will not find any food that’s fired. From wraps and salads with delicious fillings such as chimichurri seitan, blackened tofu (non-GMO), and spicy chickpeas, you will find so many healthy options here. 10. Beer Plant: Opening hours:5 pm - Midnight (Tuesday - Sunday)Website:thebeerplantContact:512-524-1800Address3110 Windsor Rd, Austin, 78703 Located at Tarrytown, Beer Plant is a gastropub that specializes in creating comforting vegan and plant-based food accompanied by craft beer. Instead of typing ‘restaurants with vegan options near me’ on Google, why don’t you check out Beer Plant? You will love their Crispy Buffalo Cauliflower, BBQ-Pulled Spaghetti Squash, and Hops ‘n’ Chips. Read Also: 12+ Best Restaurants In Belfast Maine –  Reviews & Budget 11. Arlo's: Opening hours:Noon - 2 am (Daily)Website: arlostruck.comContact:512-840-1600Address900 Red River, Austin, 78702 Arlo’s is one restaurant ensuring that vegans living in Austin can end their nights with an indulgent, melty burger. Made from gluten-free bread, soy, seitan bac’n, and melted cheeze, these burgers are delectable. Arlo’s is your usual food truck, only it serves crazy vegan food - you can also try out their street tacos and chik’n sandwiches. 12. Counter Culture: Opening hours:11 am - 10 pm (Daily)Website:CountercultureaustinContact:512-524-1540Address:2337 E Cesar Chavez St, Austin, 78702 Counter Culture is an eastside diner specializing in creating vegan soul food and bold flavors such as Shredded Jackfruit BBQ, Philly Seitan served with Cashew Cheeze, and Spicy Pad Thai made from Kelp noodles. Don’t forget to check out their weekend brunch menu - you must try out their Tofu scrambles, Tempeh bacon, and Pancake plates. 13. The Vegan Nom: Opening hours:8 am - 2 pm & 5 pm - 9 pm (Tuesday - Saturday) 8 am - 2 pm (Sunday)Website:thevegannomContact:512-217-7257Address701 E 53rd St, Austin, 78751 Another food truck from North Loop, The Vegan Nom, recently launched another trailer located on the eastern side of Austin. From all-day breakfast tacos (created from tofu scramble, soyrizo, and tempeh bacon) to signature tacos such as the Vegan Jalisco and Vegan Del Rey, there are so many mouthwatering vegan options at The Vegan Nom. Read Also: Top 12 Perdido Key Restaurants – Reviews & Budget 14. Flower Child: Opening hours:11 am - 9 pm (Daily)Website: iamaflowerchildContact:512-777-2493Address11721 Rock Rose Ave, Domain NORTHSIDE, Austin, 78758 One of our favorite vegetarian restaurants in Austin, the Flower Child is famous for spreading their love for clean eating across the city with two locations - one at the Northside, and one Downtown. You will find healthy wraps, bowls, and salads dominating the menu, and you get the option even to add proteins! Our favorites? Forbidden Rice Bowls and Thai Cashew Quinoa. And It’s A Wrap! So now you have a fair idea about all the vegan and vegetarian restaurants located in Austin, what are you even waiting for? If you have enough days in hand, we would suggest checking out all the places we have mentioned above - in case you don’t have much time, then visit the place that most appeals to you! In the meantime, don’t forget to share your thoughts and experiences with vegan and vegetarian restaurants in the comments below. Read Also: Top 15 Restaurants In Colombia You Must Visit While Traveling Best Restaurants In Honduras To Visit While Traveling Best Pet Friendly Hotels Near Me In Florida City 10 Best Restaurants On Sanibel Island