BY Barsha BhattacharyaDec 7, 2022

Did you know that Colorado has perhaps some of the most beautiful hot springs located in the United States? Although you can spot several charming hot springs near Denver or even Colorado Springs, it is hardly known how popular Colorado happens to be if you are a fan of hot springs.  So if you are looking for the perfect hot springs in and around Denver this Winter, then you have arrived at the right destination. Simply scroll down to find out more about the hot springs you must check out this winter. Stick around till the end, and we promise you no disappointment!  Top 12 Hot Springs Near Denver You Can Visit In Winter! Welcome to our list of the top hot springs near Denver, Colorado! All you have to do is scroll down. The state of Colorado is home to several beautiful hot springs. From the most remote corners of the state to the most popular cities, you can find these hot springs almost anywhere here.  But today, we will focus only on the state capital, Denver. So keep reading to find out now! 1. Mt. Princeton Hot Springs: Image Source AdmissionMonday - Thursday: 35 Dollars (Adults) & 30 Dollars (Seniors & Children) | Friday - Sunday: 30 Dollars (Adults) & 25 Dollars (Seniors & Children)Temperatures90 to 120 °FSeasonAll Year-RoundFeaturesWater Slide, Creekside Hot Springs, Multiple Pools, Lodging, Juice Bar, Spa Services, and Fitness Classes.  One of the best hot springs near Denver, Mount Princeton Hot Springs, is far from your regular hot spring! Instead, it’s a pretty fancy resort that features multiple pools accompanied by multiple amenities. Ideal for families with children, the resort has a very family-friendly vibe, and then there’s a massive water slide of 400 feet.  2. Hot Sulphur Springs Resort & Spa: Image Source Admission20 Dollars/ PersonTemperatures95 to 112 °FSeasonAll Year-RoundFeaturesMassage Treatments, Private Pools, Lodging, Bathhouse, and Lockers. You don’t have to google ‘Denver hot springs.' Instead, just check out this Springs Resort & Spa since it houses the best hot springs in the Denver area! These hot springs are historical. As a result, have been utilized for various medicinal purposes, and that too for over a hundred years.  3. The Springs Resort and Spa: Image Source Admission49 Dollars (Adults) | 25 Dollars (Children) | 46 Dollars (Seniors)Temperatures95 to 112 °FSeasonAll Year-RoundFeaturesWellness Activities, Private Hot Springs, Restaurants, Lodging, Yoga, and Spa Services. One of the best natural hot springs near Denver, The Springs Resort & Spa, perhaps requires the longest drive. However, if you are planning to check out Pagosa Springs, then you definitely will not be disappointed. The best part? These nature-made hot springs are, in fact, fed by none other than the Mother Spring, known to be the deepest hot springs in the whole world.  4. Strawberry Park Hot Springs: Image Source Admission20 Dollars/ Person (every two hours - only cash is accepted)Temperatures102 to 106 °FSeasonAll Year-RoundFeaturesShuttle Service, Clothing-Optional Amazing Evenings, Cabins, Camping Spots, and Massage Treatments.  One of the best hot springs in Colorado, the Strawberry Park Hot Springs, located in Steamboat Springs, is a relatively more rustic attraction. Set across the charming Routt National Forest, this hot spring is pretty difficult to access during Winter, but the remoteness only adds to the rustic charm of the location.  5. Glenwood Hot Springs Resort: Image Source Admission26 Dollars (Adults) | 12 Dollars (Children) - Rates are subject to change based on the season.Temperatures90 °FSeasonAll Year-RoundFeaturesPrivate Cabanas, Water Slides, Lodging, Spa Treatments, and Playing Areas For Children.  Amongst all the major hot springs in Denver Colorado, perhaps the most accommodating one is the Glenwood Hot Springs Resort, especially if you are visiting with your whole family. But that’s not the best part. Did you know that the location is actually known for the largest ‘mineral water pool’ in the entire world? More reason for you to visit this location.  Read More: The Best Resort Spa & Wellness Island Experience! 6. Iron Mountain Hot Springs: Image Source Admission34 Dollars/ Person (every 2.5 hours - rates can change based on Seasons)Temperatures99 to 108 °FSeasonAll Year-RoundFeaturesOptional Clothing, Private Hot Tubs, Pools, Camping Spots, Hike Out/Hike In, and Lockers.  If you are looking for quiet, private hot springs near Denver, then you can’t miss out on Iron Mountain Hot Springs! The place actually features about sixteen hot springs, all-natural, where visitors can simply jump from one pool to another while enjoying beautiful views of the charming Colorado River nearby.  7. Indian Hot Springs: Image Source Admission26 Dollars (Adults) | 12 Dollars (Children) - Rates are subject to change based on the season.Temperatures90 to 112 °FSeasonAll Year-RoundFeaturesPrivate Baths, Geo-Thermal Caves, Hotel Lodging, Spa Services, Cabins, and Indoor Pools.  The Indian Hot Springs is located within Idaho Springs and happens to be the closest to Denver. Hare, the primary pool looks fascinating and is encased well inside this big glass dome. This acts just like a greenhouse and is able to create a humid, warm atmosphere which allows the different tropical plants in the area to thrive.  8. Old Town Hot Springs: Image Source Admission25 Dollars (Adults) | 19 Dollars (Children) | 22 Dollars (Seniors)Temperatures80 to 103 °FSeasonAll Year-RoundFeaturesChildren Areas, Climbing Wall, Massage Therapy, Multiple Pools, and Fitness Classes.  One of our favorite hot springs near Denver, the Old Town Hot Springs, happens to be relatively more accommodating, especially to children, as compared to the other popular hot springs located within Steamboat Springs. Yes, we were talking about the Strawberry Park Hot Springs. Moreover, it features several pools and even a shallow kid pool!  9. Cottonwood Hot Springs: Image Source AdmissionMonday - Thursday: 20 Dollars (Adults) & 18 Dollars (Children) | Friday - Sunday: 24 Dollars (Adults) & 20 Dollars (Children)Temperatures80 to 106 °FSeasonAll Year-RoundFeaturesCold Plunge, Camping Spots, Spa Amenities, Cabins, Sauna, and Quiet Pools.  Located inside the San Isabel National Forest, the Cottonwood Hot Springs happens to be a paradise for all nature lovers. Situated close to Buena Vista, the Cottonwood Hot Springs are mineral-based natural hot springs that vary both in temperature and size. Moreover, the resort ends up promoting total relaxation while encouraging a very quiet, tech-free environment. 10. Sunwater Spa, Manitou Springs: Image Source AdmissionTuesday - Sunday: 8 am to 10 pm | Mondays: Closed (Rates Vary)Temperatures90 °FSeasonAll Year-RoundFeaturesYoga, Wellness Activities, Spa Treatments, and Soaking In Mineral Water.  If you are in the mood for some unique experiences in terms of hot springs, then you have to check out the Sunwater Spa, located in Manitou Springs! Known for offering several facilities for unwinding and relaxing, the Sunwater Spa in Manitou Springs is perfect for visiting with your partner, family, and even alone. 11. Ouray Hot Springs AdmissionFor Children - Free, For Youth (4-17) - $16, For Adults (18-61) - $26, For Senior (62-74) - $18, For Senior (above 75) - FreeTemperature92°F to 100°FSeasonAll Year RoundFeaturesMemberships are available, sulfur free hot springs, with constant hard air blowing, pool heating takes time! The springs are open every day for public pools from 11 am to 10 pm and for member pool hours, the duration is from 10 am to 11 am. There is a 3 month or 12 month membership available for all members. You can buy towels for $10! For one day, Ouray Hot Springs Pool recharges the underground aquifer thus, losing a huge amount of geothermal water. The volume of geothermal water decreased in the pool due to the 24-hour cutback! 12. Dunton Hot Springs AdmissionAdults: $240 for couples, Children: FreeTemperature108°FSeasonAll Year RoundFeaturesLog buildings, established in a ghost town, popular thermal mineral springs If you rent cabins to access Dunton Hot Springs, you have to pay somewhere between $630 to $2100 for one night. Clearly, it is expensive, and the rich get more access to these resorts as compared to others. The town is completely empty, and people only visit the thermal mineral springs. There are American mines pretty close to the hot springs. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Check out the most frequently asked questions related to hot springs near Denver mentioned below. 1. What Is The Closest Natural Hot Springs To Denver? Ans: The natural hot springs that are the closest to Denver are the Indian Hot Springs - it will take you about 40 mins to drive the 33 miles to Denver. It’s in the western part of the city, right on I-70. The historic hot springs in Idaho are one location you are bound to see on your way to or from the iconic ski slopes nearby.  2. What Are The Most Beautiful Hot Springs In The World? Ans: The most beautiful hot springs in the world are as follows,➊ Pamukkale (Turkey),➋ Chinoike Jigoku (Japan),➌ Szechenyi (Budapest),➍ Cascate del Mulino (Italy), and➍ The Blue Lagoon (Iceland). 3. What Are The Major Hot Springs In Colorado? Ans: The three hot springs in Colorado are as follows,➊ Glenwood Springs,➋ Great Pagosa Springs, and➌ Hot Sulphur Springs. 4. Where Are The Best Natural Hot Springs In Colorado? Ans: The best hot springs in Colorado are as follows,➊ Iron Mountain Hot Springs,➋ Mount Princeton Hot Springs,➌ Cottonwood Hot Springs,➍ Glenwood Hot Springs Pool, and➎ Ouray Hot Springs Pool. And It’s A Wrap! So we have come to the end of our list of the best hot springs near Denver! Now, what are you even waiting for? All you have to do is do your due research and then pack your bags - because the winter has arrived, and there’s no better time to hit these hot springs near Denver, Colorado!  In the meantime, don’t forget to let us know about your thoughts and past experiences with hot springs in the comments below. Read Also: The Best Resort Spa & Wellness Island Experience! 7 Key Points To Remember While Planning Your Honeymoon Trip What To Consider When Choosing Vacation Destinations For Families

BY sagnika sinhaOct 4, 2021

When we Pictured the Sahara in our mind, then we usually think of Vast, a barren, hot, and lifeless place with lots of Sand with some people riding on their Camels wandering from place to place. But fortunately, it is not the case with Sahara. It is home to the Sahara desert Animals, plants, birds, and humans for thousands of years. Also, most of North Africa is covered by Sahara, and if you look at the map, it covers more than eight countries.  The Sahara boasts of beautiful Sand dunes. The largest Sand dune can be found in the Sahara Desert of Morocco near Erg Chebbi. Marrakech to Erg Chebbi desert tour is the most popular package in Morocco. According to Guinness, the Sahara is the largest and biggest ‘hot desert on the entire planet.’ The animal that lives in the Sahara desert is unique, as the nature of the desert. Sahara Desert Animals Life In Sahara Image Source Even though the harsh conditions of the Sahara Desert are incredibly taxing, yet nature continues to thrive amidst such difficult and unimaginable living conditions. According to biologists, there are over seventy species of Sahara desert animals and mammals who call this barren land their home. In addition, one can also find more than ninety species of birds. Besides, you can also find reptiles are arachnoids like Scorpions who call Sahara their home. If we talk about some dangerous animals, then Sahara would not disappoint you. Because apart from domestic animals like Goats, Cows, and Camels, it is home to the highly feared deathstalker scorpion, the extremely venomous sand viper, and the powerful and speedy Cheetah, a bunch of antelopes and lovely long red-necked Ostrich, and many more. Here are some of the very unique Sahara desert animals list which you could only find in the Sahara Desert. 1. The Famous Silver Ant of Sahara Do you want to confront the fastest and on the earth? Among all 12000 species of ants, these are the fastest and rarest ants on the earth. Cataglyphis bombycina is their scientific name which comes out to forage in midday when the temperature is as high as 70 degrees. This is unique in as much as its activity is restricted to just over ten minutes each day. In this short span, they have to find food and survive; otherwise, they would die. Researchers say that their defense strategy is one of the best in the world. The body shape that the ants have helps them in dispensing heat more easily. Mostly they feed on animal carcasses. 2. Death Stalker Scorpion It is one of the most lethal and deadliest Scorpion species to be found in the Sahara desert. People in other parts often called it Black Scorpio. When it bites, it may cause death if not treated timely.  They only attack when they are feared of death. They hunt only at night and can be found in Wall cracks, in burrows, and under the stones. Among all animals, this is the deadliest animal in the Sahara desert. The tail of the Scorpio is full of venom. They use this venom for hunting the other insects and for proving more safety. One of their unique behaviors is that they like to take their prey by surprise so they hide under rocks and attack unsuspecting small insects. They spring out and tend to grab its victim, however, they are not very strong in their grabbing game so they need to sting the prey at the earliest. 3. Sand Viper In the Viper series, it is the deadliest. The Cerastes vipers can be found in a bunch in the Desert. They are found around 30-40cm and have an expansive, triangular head. The scientific name of the snake is Cerastes vipera which is found in the Arabian Peninsula and Levant. They also have quite tiny eyes. Sand Viper can kill their prey by biting and transferring the toxin within minutes. Small animals and small lizards other than Komodo dragons are the regular eating targets. Among the desert, animals list the poisonous insect's list is quite long. These snakes have quite a unique look. They have small horns on their head. And the color of the snake is quite camouflaged. You only can see the horn and eyes while they are full body is buried under the sand. The lifespan of the snake can extend to 18 years. The nature of the snake is not aggressive and tries to stay stable in the ground however, when it moves there is a crackling or rasping sound. 4. Desert Crocodiles The scientific name of the desert crocodile is Crocodylus suchus and often is confused with the aggressive Nile crocodile. It is hard to believe that crocodiles can survive in the desert because they live in water. They seek out moist areas like caves and burrows and make themselves comfortable. They mostly prefer burrows and caves for their place of being. This also helps them hide and surprise their prey whenever it is walking by. In the rainy season, they come out from their shelter to the lakes. They try to adapt to the dryness of the Sahara desert by trying to find moistness. Among all Sahara animals, this crocodile is addressed as sacred. These crocodiles are larger and relatively more aggressive than the Nile crocodile. Sahara desert animals are all habituated to survive the dry and harsh climate. 5. Monitor Lizards They are cold-blooded animals that are mainly active between the months of September and April. Following this, they go into hibernation. They feed on eggs, fishes, and other lizards, but if they could not find anything to the east, then they might eat birds and other small mammals. The animal knows exactly how to survive in the harsh and extreme climate of the Sahara desert. It is quite aggressive and becomes pretty threatened with encounters during cold seasons. Among all Sahara desert animals, this one is very colorful. This lizard is widely seen in Africa and central and south Asia. The average span for the lizard to live is 8 years. 6. Black-Faced Fire finch This bird is from a unique bird species. The species are less endangered because they can be found abundant in the region of Sub-Saharan Africa. The scientific name of the bird is Lagonosticta larvata. Recently, according to the new report by the BBC, their population is declining very fast. The color of the male’s face is black while the female has more of a gray appearance. These beautiful red birds are another habitant of the Sahara desert.  7. Hyrax They are the thickest herbivorous animals you could find in the Sahara Desert. People there call them small pigs. They usually hide under perforations and came out when they want food or for hunting. They live within a group of 10 to 50 animals and hunt together. Hyrax is another Sahara desert animal which is looking gorgeous with its brown fur. These herbivorous mammals are permanent residents of the Sahara Desert. Though Hyrax is also found in the Gobi desert of Mongolia.  8. African Wild Dogs They are the natives of sub-Saharan Africa, and now they are on the list of endangered species. The scientific name of the animal is Procavia capensis which occurs in the sub-Saharan area of Africa. Their face continuously grows especially the upper incisors and at a certain point, it looks like small tusks. Only about 40 species of these dogs managed to survive, which comprised 6000 adults. These wild dogs are not coming near to extinction among all the Sahara desert animals. The outbreak of diseases, hunting from humans, and other causes like less rainfall in the Sahara Desert cause the decline of African wild Dog species. They are highly socialized reptiles who live and hunt in groups. Their primary source of food is antelopes. Females are the ones who leave their pack when they matured, not men. 9. Red Neck Ostrich These can be found in North Africa, and it is the biggest bird on this planet. The scientific name of the bird is Struthio camelus camelus. This bird is one of the extant subspecies and lives in some of the harshest climates in the Sahara. They have a mix of pink and red long necks and can grow up to 10 feet. The male ones have black and white feathers as opposed to females, who possess grey feathers.  Now, due to the increase in Ostrich farming around the world, the population of these species is declining rapidly. They are extinct in 12 countries and are now limited to only six countries. This desert Ostrich is coming near to extinction. Only a few are left. 10. African Silver Bill They are the most adaptive Saharan Birds. They usually live in arid places, and so Sahara is the perfect place to live for them. The scientific name of the bird is Euodice cantans living mostly in the south of Africa. The African Silverbill is also very sociable, like African Wild Dogs. They usually eat Grass and seeds. Among all Sahara desert animals, this bird species is an example of a small passerine bird. The size of the bird is about 4 and a half inches long. 11. Saharan Cheetah Meet the fastest one among all the Sahara desert animals. One of the top Predators in the Sahara is Cheetah. Sadly their species are endangered, and only about 300 mature adults are left in the Sahara. The African cheetah has its scientific name as Acinonyx jubatus hecki and is considered a subspecies native of the Saharan desert. They can be found in the western parts of the Sahara. They mainly hunt at night, and their favorite prey is antelope, but sometimes they also hunt rabbits. 12. Addax Antelope An endangered species, which is now becoming very rare to be seen, is Sahara desert animals. The main reason for wiping out this species is the excess of hunting. These species are mainly locals of Niger and Chad. The addax is a desert-adapted African antelope with the scientific name Addax nasomaculatus. The animal is almost on the verge of being exterminated. These are characterized by their long twisted horns, and the color of their coat is mainly white. They are very adaptive to Sahara because they can live without water for many days. They eat grasses and leaves of desert plants, and it is their primary source of water. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): 1. Do Any Animals Live In Sahara Dessert? Yes, there are animals who have chosen to stay in Sahara Dessert. The mammal species that have been founded in the dessert are Gerbil, Jerboa, Cape hare, and Dessert Hedgehog. 2. Which Is The Most Important Animal In The Sahara Dessert? Perhaps the Dromedary Camel is the most popular animal in the Sahara Dessert. It can be domesticated, rather it has been domesticated for thousands of years and they give their service to the desert nomads. 3. What Animal Has Adapted To Sahara Dessert? The Fennec Fox, who has learned to endure the heat of the Sahara Dessert. Their large years are not only for cuteness, but they use it to hear predators from afar and also use them to release body heat. The large ears help them to stay cool on hot days. Wrapping It Up: If you want to enjoy the tour of the Sahara Desert and want to see these animals live then, you should visit Morocco. Morocco is famous for the Sahara Desert, and many tour companies offer Sahara tours. Sahara desert animals are all very rare, and many of them are near to extinction. So what about your planning to travel to the Sahara? Do not forget to share your exciting tour story with us. Read Also: 10 Best Things To Do In Phoenix(Arizona) Discovering The 11 Most Beautiful Places Of Adventure In The World Why To Engage Competent Tourism Companies For Executing Best Leisure Time

BY Ankita TripathyJul 20, 2023

Are you thinking about visiting some of the national parks in Florida? Well, if your answer is a YES, then you have reached the right place! Some people picture castles, roller coasters, and Mickey Mouse-shaped pretzels when they think of parks in the Sunshine State, but Florida's national parks are just as well-known as its amusement parks. Amazing ecological and biological diversity can be found on protected lands from the panhandle to the tip of the Keys. Florida is the only area on Earth where alligators and crocodiles cohabit; the mangroves here serve as kayak mazes, rockets blast off over lagoons, and alligators and crocodiles share the same territory. Keep reading this article till the end to learn about the national parks in Florida that you must visit this year… Top 12 National Parks In Florida That You Must Visit! There are a number of things that Florida, the Sunshine State, is famous for, and one of them is the National parks. These are a blend of nature and the history that humankind has made. So, if that is something that you want to know, then you have reached the right place! Here are the top 12 best national parks in Florida that you need to visit in 2023: 1. Big Cypress National Preserve Image Source The majority of people only experience Big Cypress National Park as a parallax of sawgrass and cypress trees against the billowy clouds of the Florida sky as they speed along I-75 or U.S. 41 via the windows of their vehicle. Most people only attend the visitor center because of need. However, some do so out of curiosity. Big Cypress is only one of two places on Earth where the ghost orchid may be found. It also serves as a refuge for the endangered American alligator, and Florida's elusive but threatened panther population. Big Cypress was the first National Park Service unit east of Colorado to get this recognition as a Dark Sky Place, and it continues to be the southernmost Dark Sky Place in Florida. This national preserve's swamp waters flow softly, producing the ideal environment for the name-bearing cypress trees to grow tall and strong and create a maze beneath their canopy for tourists who are more interested in aquatic activities. Big Cypress is one of the last remaining undeveloped areas in South Florida, where backcountry camps, swamp buggies, and airboats retain a traditional way of life that was developed by indigenous peoples and the pioneering spirit of early settlers. Big Cypress truly has something for everyone, so we are now challenging everyone to give something back to Big Cypress in exchange. 2. Biscayne National Park Image Source The most amazing features of Florida's seas are actually located below the surface. When people think of Florida's shores, they typically picture gentle waves lapping at the soft sand under a bright sun. Four separate ecosystems, covering about 173,000 acres, merge to form rich edge communities, or "ecotones." These edges are home to an astounding variety of animals, including pelicans, manatees, sea turtles, hundreds of different types of colorful fish, and flora that are unique to the United States. Over 600 native fish, neotropical water birds, migratory habitat, 20 threatened and endangered species, such as the Schaus' swallowtail butterfly and Florida semaphore cactus, as well as the previously mentioned sea turtles and manatees, can all be found in the park. It also includes the Florida Reef, the only live coral barrier reef in the continental United States, and the northernmost part of the third-largest coral reef system in the world. A number of shipwrecks along Biscayne National Park's Maritime Heritage Trail have found their final resting places because of this reef, a project that was made possible with The Alliance's assistance. 3. Castillo de San Marcos National Monument Image Source Castillo de San Marcos National Monument preserves the oldest masonry fortification in the continental United States and interprets more than 450 years of cultural crossings. It was constructed by the Spanish in St. Augustine to protect Florida and the Atlantic trade route. In case you are wondering about all the things that you can do here, I have you covered. You can engage with the park rangers that are eager to answer your questions. They also provide the tourists with several interpretive opportunities that are active and available throughout the day. You can attend formal presentations where a thematic program that lasts 15 to 20 minutes will be played. You can interact directly with cultural artifacts, get answers to your burning questions, and spend as much or as little time as you like at ongoing informal stations. The historic Cannon demonstration or Musket takes place on the weekends mostly. These are held at 10:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 01:30 p.m., 02:30 p.m., and 03:30 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. The volunteers and rangers also dress up in period costumes to give the tourists the best experience of traveling back in time. You can take pictures of them and with them to experience the lives of the colonists that lived here. 4. Canaveral National Seashore Image Source Canaveral National Seashore is a unique location since it's conceivably the only spot in the world where rocket ships, alligators, and nudist beaches coexist. On the east coast of central Florida, Canaveral preserves one of the state's longest stretches of undeveloped coastline. Mile after mile of pristine shoreline offers a tranquil haven for sunbathers, sea turtles, and the occasional nudist; Apollo Beach, at the northern end of Beach Road, is the alternative to the crowded Playalinda Beach right across the street. If viewing rocket launches from the adjacent Kennedy Space Centre on the park's beaches isn't your thing, you can also go kayaking through Mosquito Lagoon, a sizable estuary that occupies two-thirds of the park (but remember the insect spray). 5. De Soto National Monument Image Source Conquistador Hernando de Soto's army of soldiers, paid mercenaries, artisans, and clergy arrived in Tampa Bay in May 1539. They encountered ferocious resistance from natives defending their homes. De Soto's search for glory and treasure would be a four-year, 4,000-mile journey filled with mystery, conflict, disease, and discovery that would shape American history. Today, there are a number of things that you can experience at the De Soto National Monument. You can try on the European armor that consists of helmets as well as breastplates. This is one of the most popular activities of the people or tourists visiting this national park in Florida. Aside from that, taking a fishing class and bird viewing are additional popular activities in this national park. Numerous bird species, including gulls, great egrets, herons, as well as American white pelicans, can be found at DeSoto National Memorial.  If you're lucky, you might also catch a glimpse of bald eagles on the Manatee River scavenging for food! The De Soto Rancho Fishing Clinic is available in the park for adults and children aged 7 and older. Participants gain knowledge of fishing gear, casting, fish identification, and knot-making! 6. Everglades National Park Image Source Everglades National Park, the most recognizable national park in Florida, is the Yellowstone of swamps, a 1.5 million acre subtropical wilderness teeming with terrifying species that makes Jurassic Park seem like a petting zoo and jet-black waterways and mangrove-lined coastlines. This enormous park, the third largest in the contiguous United States, is too big to handle all at once. Alligator sightings are practically guaranteed along the Anhinga Trail, a leisurely 0.8-mile loop that leaves at the Royal Palm Visitor Centre. You can rent kayaks and paddle up the Flamingo Canal on unnervingly quiet water while passing through deep forests and mangrove tunnels to Coot Bay by continuing to travel along the Main Park Road until it ends at the Flamingo Campground. Keep a watch out for American crocodiles and also manatees along the trip. They enjoy the brackish waters close to the shore. 7. Fort Matanzas National Monument Image Source The next on the list of the best national parks in Florida is Fort Matanzas. From Fort Jefferson to Fort Barrancas, forts are as central to Florida’s national parks as gators as well as mangroves. Chief among them is Fort Matanzas National Monument. It's one of the oldest fortresses in the state and is also one of the first forts-as-national monuments in the nation, designated back in 1924. Originally built by Spanish settlers in 1742 to fortify the Matanzas Inlet in St. Augustine, it remains a resolute structure that stretches 50 feet on each side and is 30 feet high. Today, the fort is accessible via ferry, with ranger programs that shed light on its storied history. Other park activities include relaxing at a beach or following the boardwalk trail off the visitor center parking lot, which zigzags through a shaded hammock forest. 8. Dry Tortugas National Park Image Source Seventy miles off the coast of Key West is Dry Tortugas National Park, an aquatic wonderland of 99 percent water. The only land out here, seemingly in the middle of the gulf, is a handful of tiny keys, including the main attraction: Garden Key. After the two-to-four boat ride from Key West’s Yankee Freedom ferry terminal, dock at Garden Key to explore Fort Jefferson, an ironclad fortress built in the 1800s that looks like a brick Pentagon. Originally built to defend the Southern coast of the U.S. after the War of 1812, the fort also served as a temporary prison before earning national park status. Today, the structure—and the surrounding keys and waters—tells the stories of maritime combat and marine wildlife, best observed from the Garden Key beaches or along the underwater snorkel trails that surround the fort. 9. Silver Springs State Park Image Source For years, tourists have flocked to this location just to take glass-bottomed boat trips through the state's breathtaking springs. In reality, Silver Springs State Park's glass-bottom boat trips were introduced over a century ago, and they continue to be popular in this area of north-central Florida between Orlando and Gainesville. It's understandable, given that the park is home to surreal, crystal-clear water and a variety of animals, including otters, manatees, alligators, rabid rhesus macaques, and monkeys. Despite the fact that swimming is prohibited (due to the aforementioned alligators), Silver Spring is a kayaker's and paddle boarder's heaven, and there are 15 miles of shady hiking trails circling the 4.5-mile Silver River. 10. Point Washington State Forest Image Source Point Washington State Forest on Florida's panhandle is a refuge of tall trees and hiking trails. Located seemingly miles away from the state's more well-known parks, you will find the longleaf pine as the main attraction. It is a tree that is so tall that it resembles a hybrid of a redwood and a palm. The Eastern Lake Trail System, which supports the park's recreational options, is surrounded by these pines for miles. The trail system here contains several unpaved trails for cyclists and hikers despite being as flat as a pancake. The nearby Grayton Beach State Park, which follows the coast as well as offers coastal forest trails, swimming chances, and kayaking on dune lakes, is definitely worth exploring. 11. Bahia Honda State & National Park Image Source Bahia Honda State Park is a pastoral pit stop on the road to Key West out in the Keys. Calusa Beach, off Big Pine Key, serves as the park's focal point. Its turquoise waters entice swimmers, snorkelers, as well as kayakers alike (equipment for both activities is available for rent). At the summit of the iconic Bahia Honda Bridge lies a truly picturesque setting. It is a historical structure dating back to the early 1900s. This was originally a crucial component of Henry Flagler's ambitious Overseas Railroad to Key West. A little route along a portion of the bridge will lead you to one of the Keys' highest spots. Here you may enjoy panoramic views of the bay below. Stay for a photo-worthy sunset and afterward stargazing if you want to remember it forever. 12. Apalachicola National Park Image Source A stone’s throw from the state capital of Tallahassee, Apalachicola National Forest is a natural haven. Florida's largest national forest clocks in at a whopping 633,000 acres. This park has two main sections. They are Bradwell Bay Wilderness and Mud Swamp/New River Wilderness. Between the two, visitors can paddle, swim, hike, fish, and go off-roading or horseback riding. The park also exhibits striking biological and ecological diversity. It goes from longleaf pine sandhills and pine flatwoods to coastal plain hammocks, basin swamps, and floodplain forests. The area teems with wildlife, like woodpeckers, bobcats, gray foxes, as well as alligators. Drink in the diversity on a one-mile loop at the Camel Lake Trail. You can also enjoy by kayaking to Owl Creek from Hickory Landing. You can also take a two-mile route along the Apalachicola River. This gets paddlers up close and personal with that classic Florida river swamp terrain. Wrapping It Up! In case you were searching for the best national parks in Florida, I hope that this blog has been of help to you. If there are any other queries related to the same, feel free to let me know. All that you need to do is scroll down till you reach the bottom of the page. Then leave your comments and queries in the box below. And I will be there to answer them all for you! Read Also: Is It Worth It To Stay In An All-Inclusive Resort In Florida? Indian Buffet Near Me In Florida – Best Buffets For You 10 Best Fishing Charters In Florida To Visit Top 8+ Splash Pad Near Me In Florida