It’s already fall, and the Rocky Mountain National Park Trails are adorned with the Aspen leaves’ glistening gold. Also, the dark green of the pine trees in the backdrop complements the dark red and orange of Alpine shrubs.
Hiking through the park trails is the best way to explore the beauty of the USA National Park to the fullest. Further, the hiking trails come with varying difficulty levels. Some are also great for enjoying a walk with your furry friends.
Moreover, the trails are varied in their destinations. Some trails in the park will take you to beautiful waterfalls, and some will end at breathtaking summits and immersive lakes.
Do you also want to hike and experience the park at its best? Here is a brief overview.
Hiking Through The Rocky Mountain National Park Trails: A Rocky Mountain National Park Guide
Rocky Mountain National Park has over 350 miles of hiking trails. Further, you will find a delightful activity in the park irrespective of your abilities.
However, you will need proper traction devices and a Rocky Mountain National Park map to remain safe during hiking. Moreover, you will need proper footwear with a treaded sole as the routes can be snowy and slippery.
With proper safety measures, it’s time for you to hit the waterfalls, summit, and lake trails.
Best Rocky Mountain National Park Trails To Waterfalls
Rocky Mountain National Park is home to 31 waterfalls. Do you want to witness water cascading through rocky terrains? Hit any of the following trails in the park.
1. Granite Falls Trail
Trail Head: Green Mountain Trailhead parking area
Trail Distance: 5.2 miles one-way
Difficulty Level: Moderate
You will pass through lush green meadows while hiking to Granite Falls Trail. However, the terrain is marshy here, and you must be careful as you explore the path.
Further, lodgepole pine, aspen, Engelmann spruce, and subalpine fir greet you throughout the trail. The elevation gain is 1,046 feet in the trail, and you must proceed carefully.
2. Chasm Falls Trail
Trail Head: Old Fall River Road or Winter Closure Gate
Trail Distance: 2 Miles (Round Trip)
Difficulty Level: Moderate
The Chasm Falls Trail will take you to a cascading beauty. With an elevation of just 640 feet, this trail is moderate to hike.
Further, if the hiking trail from Old Fall River Road is closed, you can take the trail from Winter Closure Gate. Then, you will have to walk or bike for 2.2 Miles.
3. Adam Falls Trail
Trail Head: East Inlet
Trail Distance: 0.6 Miles round trip
Difficulty Level: Easy
With an elevation of just 79 feet, the Adam Falls Trail is one of the easiest ones in the park. Adam Falls is small but excels in its quaint beauty.
If you want to be more adventurous, you can walk past the waterfall. A beautiful glacier valley will emerge before your eyes, and you will love the exuberance of wildflowers.
4. Cascade Falls Trail
Trail Head: North Inlet
Trail Distance: 3.4 Miles one-way
Difficulty Level: Moderate to Strenuous (Expect changes in the difficulty level throughout the route)
You will love the gurgling sound of the North Inlet stream water, and as it thrashes the pure granite stone, it’s a beauty to behold. This waterfall is 100 feet tall and forms a cascade, as the name rightly suggests.
You will meet the most adorable marmots As you continue your hike and pass through the open meadow. They are frequent to the winding river through the lodgepole pine forest. Further, you can stop here to fish river trout and brown trout.
Best Rocky Mountain National Park Trails To Lakes
Great National Park has 156 lakes. Some of these lakes have dense trout populations. Further, areas near these lakes are great for spotting wildlife. So, let’s know about the lake hiking trails that lead us to these beautiful lakes.
1. Bear Lake Trail
Trail Head: Bear Lake
Trail Distance: 0.7 Mile
Difficulty Level: Easy
With mountains of the Continental Divide in the backdrop, Bear Lake Trail is one of the best locations in the park for watching the sunset. You will love the beauty of Hallett Peak, Continental Divide, and an Alpine lake here.
Bear Lake is the epicenter of many hiking trails. You can start your hike to Alberta Falls, Flattop Mountain, Emerald Lake, and more from here.
2. Sprague Lake Loop Trail
Trail Head: Estes Park
Trail Distance: 0.7 Miles round trip
Difficulty Level: Easy
Sprague Lake Loop Trail is the most accessible trail in the park. Wheelchairs are allowed here. So, patients with disabilities can also explore this trail.
You can stop at the benches and many lookouts throughout the trail to reflect on the beauty of nature. Further, you can see the mountain peaks along the Continental Divide.
Moreover, Sprague Lake is an amazing destination for spotting wildlife.
3. Mills Lake Trail
Trail Head: Glacier Gorge
Trail Distance – 5 Miles round trip
Difficulty Level: Moderate to Strenuous
With a 700-foot elevation, the Mills Lake trail will take you through a gorge carved by glaciers, streambeds, and waterfalls.
The beautiful Mills Lake gets its name from Enos Mills, the founder of the Rocky Mountain National Park. Further, if you want to continue your hiking pursuit, you can walk to Black Lake, and that will be an additional 1.7-mile hike.
4. Gem Lake Trail
Trail Head: Lumpy Ridge Trailhead
Trail Distance: 3.4 Miles round trip
Difficulty Level: Moderate to Strenuous
The expansive field of granite domes houses the Gem Lake. It is indeed a hidden gem and one of the biggest attractions in the area, along with Lumpy Ridge.
Gem Lake is shallow, and it has water of melted snow and rainfall.
5. Dream Lake Trail
Trail Head: Bear Lake
Trail Distance: 2.2 miles round trip
Difficulty Level: Moderate to Strenuous
You must go for a steady ascent from Bear Lake to reach Dream Lake. The trail comes with an elevation change of 830 feet. Don’t miss the following highlights of this hiking route.
Nymph Lake
Aspen Groves
Ponderosa Pine
The Nymph Lake looks most beautiful in summer, with pond lilies in full bloom. Further, you can use Dream Lake as the base and trek to the amazing Emerald Lake or Lake Haiyaha.
Best Rocky Mountain National Park Trails To Summits
Despite the elevation gain of around 1000-3000 feet, the hiking trails to summits are very popular among visitors. The wonderful vistas from the mountain tops make the effort worth it.
1. Deer Mountain Trail
Trail Head: Deer Ridge Jct
Trail Distance: 3.1 miles one-way
Difficulty Level: Moderate to Strenuous
The Deer Mountain comes with an elevation of 10,006 feet. Further, as you hike and reach the summit, you will enjoy the most beautiful view of Upper Beaver Meadows, Longs Peak, Estes Park, and Moraine Park.
Be careful about the weather forecast before you start your journey on the trail.
2. Flattop Mountain Trail
Trail Head: Bear Lake Trailhead
Trail Distance: 8.8 miles round trip
Difficulty Level: Moderate to Strenuous
The trail from Bear Lake is the best way to reach Flattop Mountain, and this route is one of the trickiest ones in the park. However, if you cannot access the trail from Bear Lake, you can try the route to Flattop via Tonahutu Trail.
Further, as you reach the Flattop Mountain summit, you will enjoy the beauty of Hallet Peak, Dream Lake, and Tyndall Glacier.
3. Chasm Lake And Longs Peak Trail
Trail Head: Old Fall River Road or Winter Closure Gate
Trail Distance: 4.2 miles one-way
Difficulty Level: Strenuous
Chasm Lake, just beneath the Longs Peak, offers a spectacular view. You will come across Tundra meadows and Alpine tundra through the trail. Further, animals like pikas and marmots are common here.
As you reach the Chasm Junction and find an outhouse, you can hike along a wall to see Columbine Falls and Peacock Pool Gorge.
After this point, the terrain becomes rocky, and you will need cairns to reach Cirque, the lake’s location.
Mistakes You Must Avoid When Hiking Through Trails Of Rocky Mountain National Park
Making a rushed trip to the Rocky Mountain National Park is the biggest mistake you can make. You can face severe issues like dehydration and acute mountain sickness here if you don’t allow your body to acclimatize or work on your physical and mental endurance.
So, carry enough water or hydrating solutions and start your training under proper guidance at least one month before your Rocky Mountain hike.
Further, don’t think that you will always make it to the trails in your usual track pants or leggings. You have to wear hiking clothes as on many days, you will have no escape from the afternoon rain.
Rocky Mountains National Park At A Glance
Location: Colorado, USA
Established: 26 January 1915
Highest Point: Longs Peak
Area: 415 Square Miles
How to Reach: Take a drive or shuttle from the Denver International Airport.
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!
So, lucky you – you’re off! Whether you’re doing like an increasing number of people and opting for a good old British beach holiday, or giving global warming a helping hand by jetting off abroad, you need to make sure your case is full of the things that will make your break a belter.
5 Important Things To Buy For Beach Holiday In 2023:
Here are five to get you started.
1. Towel
A towel isn't just to get dry with. It’s a beach statement. It says who you are and what you’re doing on that stretch of sand.
Are you an all-swimming all-surfing beach athlete, only stopping to dab yourself with your Finisterre before grabbing a frisbee, doing some cartwheels, and making everyone else feel tired? Or are you a beach goddess, who regards the shoreline as a place where people come to worship you as you drape yourself over a length of Lacoste luxury? Or do you just like a nice fluffy number?
Your choice of the towel will shout volumes about you, so take time to make sure it’s speaking your language.
2. Wrap
The perfect complement to a beach-beating towel is a game-over wrap. Mark the end of the beach day in style by standing up and swirling something stylish around your shoulders. Pick the right wrap and you’ll be counting the minutes until you can make that truly dramatic exit.
But you don’t have to wait until then. Wraps are useful as a cover for the bits of you that might be going a little pinker than you wanted, or any other bits for that matter.
3. Ebook reader
So, you’re there. The sun’s come through with its end of the deal. The sea’s doing its thing. The sand’s playing a blinder. What’s missing? The perfect book, that’s what. And of course, you don’t want to be lugging half a library with you, so you simply must pick something great from the range of ebook readers available.
They’re light, they contain shelf loads of books, and can go for weeks without a charge. What’s more, you can pick up amazing books for only 99p each. Some classic texts are even free. You can also make notes on books as you go (ideal for those times when you think you could have phrased things a little better than Tolstoy managed).
4. Ebook reader cushion
Why should you be the one with all the comfort? Give your ebook reader a nice cushion to rest against. It’s their holiday too.
5. Torch
One of the things that often surprises holidaymakers is how quickly it gets dark the closer you are to the equator. One minute, sunshine. The next, it’s like somebody switched the light off. Be prepared for those super-quick sunsets with a handy torch.
Also useful when you’ve got your sunglasses on and you want to find something at the bottom of your beach bag. Well, yes, of course, you could just take those sunglasses off. But you didn’t spend all that dosh on a pair of Celine Cat Eyes just to be seen out of them, did you?
Related: Top 10 Best Beaches In Florida
Happy Holidays
What you buy in the next few months can determine how good a holiday you have. Make sure you get the bits you need to make your holiday the best ever.
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Are you thinking of purchasing a Disney Vacation Club membership but feel as if buying directly from the club itself is a bit too much? We all know how heavy it can be on the pocket, so it’s natural to want to find an alternative to it!
There is a solution for those interested, known as DVC resale, where you will be able to get your dream DVC membership package at a lesser price from a reputable website, like DVC Resale Experts.
Continue reading further to discover more about the wonders of DVC resale!
Why Should I Choose DVC Resale?
Resale marketplaces offer a wide range of DVC contracts from various resorts and points packages.
This means you have a higher chance of finding a membership that suits your preferences and travel needs. Disney sometimes has limited availability for specific resorts or contract types, so the resale market provides more options.
The resale market often has contracts available for well-established Disney resorts that are highly sought after, such as the Polynesian Village Resort, Animal Kingdom Lodge, or BoardWalk Villas.
These resorts may have long waitlists or limited availability when purchased directly from Disney, but you can find them more readily on the resale market.
While there may be a few minor differences in ownership benefits between direct and resale purchases, the core benefits of DVC ownership, such as booking priority, access to member events, and discounts on dining, merchandise, and annual passes, are available to resale owners as well.
Is DVC Resale A Good Investment?
DVC resale can potentially be a great investment for those who plan to use the membership to vacation at Disney resorts over an extended period. However, it's important to consider and evaluate the following points when going into DVC resale as an investment.
Vacation Value
The primary purpose of a DVC membership is to provide vacation accommodations at Disney resorts.
If you and your family are avid Disney fans and plan to take frequent vacations to Disney destinations, then a DVC resale can offer long-term savings compared to booking hotel stays each time.
Ownership Length
The longer you own a DVC membership, the more time you have to recoup your initial investment through savings on accommodations.
DVC memberships are typically long-term commitments, with contracts lasting several decades. It's important to consider your long-term vacation plans and assess whether the financial commitment aligns with your projected usage.
Membership Benefits
As a DVC resale owner, you still receive many of the membership benefits offered to direct purchasers. These benefits may include access to the Disney Vacation Club resorts, booking priority, discounts on dining, merchandise, annual passes, and more
The benefits you receive can also enhance your overall Disney vacation experience and provide additional value for your investment, but ultimately, the decision about whether DVC resale is a good investment depends on your individual needs or preferences.
Can I Save Money With A DVC Resale?
When you purchase a resale membership, you are buying from an existing DVC owner who is selling their membership on the secondary market. These sellers may be willing to offer lower prices, making it more affordable for buyers.
DVC resale can provide long-term savings for individuals or families who plan to vacation at Disney resorts regularly over an extended period.
The cost savings you can achieve through discounted accommodations can accumulate over time and outweigh the initial investment in the membership. By purchasing at a lower price and using your points strategically, you can enjoy cost-effective Disney vacations.
DVC members have the flexibility to the bank, borrow, and transfer points, which can offer additional cost savings.
For example, if you don't use all your points in a given year, you can bank them for use in a future year or borrow points from a future year to book a larger accommodation or a longer stay. This allows you to optimize your point usage and potentially save money on accommodations.
Final Thoughts
DVC resale not only allows you to save money on Disney vacations, but if you plan to visit Disney resorts regularly and take advantage of the accommodations, then the benefits provided by a DVC membership resale, like those at DVC Resale Experts, are truly worth it.
If you're ready to embark on your magical journey and find your dream DVC membership at an affordable price, don't hesitate to reach out to us! Our team of DVC Resale Experts is here to assist you every step of the way. Contact us today and let's make your Disney dreams come true!
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A group of researchers from the University of Santo Tomas has prepared a full-fledged report on how sustainable tourism can be the future of Siquijor.
The study, “Conservation of Sustainable Ecotourism on the Island of Siquijor through Sustainable Alternative Livelihoods, Training and Development,” has also factored in the needs of the inhabitants to promote sustainable tourism on the island.
Siquijor remains a hidden gem while Bohol and Cebu, its neighbors, get more attention.
However, Siquijor has the serene vibe, mystical charm, and natural beauty to be a tourism hotspot. Additionally, it enables you to be part of cultural discovery, adventure, and relaxation.
So, you can be an adrenaline junkie or someone who enjoys the company of nature. Siquijor has everything for different types of travelers.
Do you also feel like unwinding in Siquijor? Let’s talk about the things to do in Siquijor in this Tour and Travel Guide. However, before that, I want to discuss how to travel to Siquijor.
How Do I Travel To Siquijor? Enjoy A Beautiful Ferry Ride
Siquijor does not have an airport. You have to reach this island in the heart of the Philippines by ferry.
You can take a ferry from Cebu or Dumaguete. Dumaguete is the closest neighbor of Siquijor, and the ferry ride will take around 1 hour.
From Cebu, a ferry ride to Siquijor will take 4-5 hours.
Are you traveling from Manila? Take a flight to Dumaguete or Cebu and then a ferry ride to Siquijor.
Unique Things To Do In Siquijor: What Is Siquijor Famous For?
March to May, or the dry season, is the best time to visit Siquijor. The sea remains calm during the dry season.
So, water activities, including boat rides, become the most enjoyable in these months.
Now, many people project Siquijor as a year-round attraction. However, it experiences heavy rainfall from October to June. Also, the sea becomes tumultuous during these months.
However, irrespective of the time of your visit, you will love the following things to do in Siquijor.
1. Plan A Visit To The Cambugahay Falls
A beautiful three-tiered waterfall in Lazi!
Cambugahay Falls looks stunning with the backdrop and surroundings of lush greenery. Further, it has crystal clear water, gleaming in the Sun.
The things to do here are:
Swimming
Relaxing
Soaking in the natural beauty of the island
Dipping into the natural pools
And? You can live your Instagram dream by swinging from the vine rope hanging above the water.
You have to take a short trek through the jungle path to reach the waterfall.
2. Visiting The Old Enchanted Balete Tree: The Spirits Are Waiting
When the BBC called Siquijor “A paradise island with a reputation for witchcraft,” we all took note.
But how did it get its name? Let’s decode.
Also known as the “Mystical Island,” Siquijor is also home to the Balete Tree.
This ancient tree located in Enrique Villanueva town is 400 years old.
In local folklore, various spirits and supernatural beings live in this tree.
The tree is gigantic in size, and it is surrounded by cool and clear spring water.
3. Enjoying The Turquoise Water And White Sand Beach At Salagdoong Beach
Do you want to relax at the beach? Salagdoong Beach will be your go-to destination. White powdery sand and turquoise water make it stand out.
Located in Maria, this beach also offers an adventurous experience as you dive from the dramatic cliffs, with heights ranging from 8 to 15 meters.
The Sun goes down, and after a day full of adventure, you need to relax. You can take the small local cottages for rent and spend the night watching the Moonlight dancing in the water.
4. Scuba Diving At Siquijor’s Best Dive Spots: Things To Do In Siquijor
Siquijor has Paliton Beach, where divers can explore coral reefs, underwater caves, and vibrant marine species such as sea turtles, reef sharks, and tropical fish.
Another popular dive spot is Mae’s Rock, where divers can see an abundance of underwater creatures, such as:
Nudibranchs
Lionfish
Macro Critters
Are you a beginner? Don’t worry, as the island has many diving schools that will help you start your scuba diving journey.
5. Visiting The Siquijor Butterfly Sanctuary: Things To Do In Siquijor
Do you want to learn about the life cycle of butterflies, their role in the ecosystem, and conservation efforts in the region? Visit the Siquijor Butterfly Sanctuary in Lazi.
It is also a beautiful place to take photos for your socials and stroll through the peaceful gardens.
6. Exploring The Old Churches And Historical Sites: Being Familiar With The Essence Of Siquijor
St. Francis of Assisi Church in the town of Lazi is one of the most prominent historical landmarks of Siquijor.
This stunning Spanish-era church was built in 1857, and its coral stone construction still evokes a sense of awe!
San Isidro Labrador Church is another attraction here, and it is one of the oldest churches in the Philippines, dating back to the 16th century.
7. Trekking To Mt. Bandilaan National Park: Nature And Mysticism At Its Best
Hike to the Bandilaan and enjoy the most thrilling panoramic view of the island and the surrounding ocean.
Also, the national park has a natural spring and a sacred grotto.
Thus, trekking through this national park feels like a spiritual experience.
8. Be A Part Of The Healing Festival And Know The Island’s Spiritual Heritage
In the month of May, Siquijor hosts the Healing Festival.
Spiritual guides, herbalists, and local healers gather to share their knowledge in the following sectors:
Energy healing
Natural remedies
Traditional medicine
It is your chance to be a part of healing treatments and workshops on ancient practices of the island.
9. A Nighttime Firefly Tour: You Will Not Find This Experience Anywhere Else
Picture a scene! You are lying on the beach, and suddenly, fireflies eradicate the darkness and light up the night sky!
This is what you will see on a firefly tour in Siquijor. Quiet rivers and mangrove forests on the island are the ideal location. You can take a ride in the banca boat or kayak to spot the fireflies in the trees, around you, and everywhere!
10. Have The Most Amazing Seafood And Beach Experience
When in Siquijor, don’t miss:
Grilled fish
Shellfish
Crabs
Sinigang na baboy
Kinilaw
You must also try the local desserts and bring some fresh produce as cherished souvenirs.