Smart Travel Solutions: Unexpected Car Accessories for Your Journey

Mar 29, 2024

Last Updated on: Nov 14, 2024

Travel Guides

In a world where technology continuously evolves to make our experiences more convenient and enjoyable, the concept of smart travel solutions has gained significant traction.

While we often think of gadgets and accessories for airplanes or hotels, our cars can also benefit from innovative enhancements that can elevate our journeys. 

Yes, you heard that right! Our very own cards can also make our journeys better. In this article today, we will be discussing some essential accessories for your cars. From safety to entertainment, there are some surprising car accessories that can truly enhance your travel experience.

So, without further ado, let’s get started…

1. TopRide Bike Rack

TopRide Bike Rack

The bike rack is an indispensable accessory for travelers who wish to bring their bicycles along on their journeys and go on a biking trail.

So, if you already have a bike, it’s advisable to Purchase a Thule Bike Rack for your vehicle so you won’t have to spend money renting a bike at the destination.

Designed for easy installation on the roof of a vehicle, the TopRide rack securely holds your bike in place, freeing up interior space for passengers and luggage.

2. Organizational Accessories for Travel Essentials

Efficiently organizing travel essentials can streamline packing and enhance convenience during the journey. From packing cubes for compartmentalizing clothes and document organizers for passports, tickets, and travel itineraries to multi-pocket car organizers attached to the back of seats for holding small items and snacks, travelers can manage space, minimize stress, and stay well-prepared for any adventure that awaits them at their destination.

3. Backseat Organizer with Tablet Holder

Traveling with kids can sometimes be challenging, especially on long car rides. A backseat organizer with a built-in tablet holder is a lifesaver for parents looking to keep their children entertained and organized on the road.

With multiple pockets and compartments for storing toys, snacks, and other essentials, it helps prevent clutter and ensures that everything stays within easy reach. The integrated tablet holder allows kids to watch movies or play games, keeping them occupied for hours on end.

4. Wireless Car Charger with Mount

One of the essential accessories for any road trip is a reliable phone charger. However, tangled wires and limited charging ports can be a hassle. Enter the wireless car charger with a mount.

This ingenious device not only keeps your phone charged without the need for cables but also securely holds it in place, allowing for hands-free navigation and communication. Whether you are traveling in rough terrains or going underwater diving, there’s nothing that can stop your car from getting charged. 

5. Inflatable Car Mattress

Inflatable Car Mattress

For travelers embarking on extended road trips or camping adventures, a comfortable sleeping solution is essential. An inflatable car mattress transforms your vehicle into a cozy sleeping space, providing a supportive surface for some relaxation.

With its lightweight and portable design, it easily fits into the trunk or backseat when deflated, making it ideal for spontaneous overnight stays or outdoor excursions. Whether you’re taking a break during a long drive or spending the night under the stars, this innovative accessory ensures that you rest easy wherever your travels take you.

6. Portable Espresso Maker

For coffee enthusiasts unwilling to compromise on their caffeine fix, a portable espresso maker designed for car use is a nin-to-have. Whether you’re embarking on an early morning road trip or in need of a pick-me-up during a long drive, this compact device allows you to brew delicious espresso right in your car. With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy barista-quality coffee on the go, ensuring that you stay alert and energized throughout your travels.

7. Bluetooth Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

Proper tire maintenance is crucial for safe and efficient driving, but keeping track of tire pressure can be easily overlooked. A Bluetooth TPMS takes the guesswork out of tire maintenance by providing real-time monitoring and alerts directly to your smartphone.

By keeping you informed of any fluctuations in tire pressure, it helps prevent blowouts, improve fuel efficiency, and extend the lifespan of your tires, ensuring a smoother and safer journey.

Related: Can You Use Bluetooth On A Plane? – Know It All Here!

8. Collapsible Trash Can

Maintaining a clean and organized car interior is essential for a comfortable travel experience. A collapsible trash can is a simple yet effective solution for managing waste on the go.

With its compact design and durable construction, it easily fits into tight spaces and can be expanded to accommodate larger volumes of trash. Whether you’re disposing of snack wrappers, empty bottles, or other litter, having a designated trash can helps keep your car tidy and clutter-free.

9. Smartphone Heads-Up Display (HUD)

Navigation is key to any journey, but constantly looking down at your phone or GPS device can be distracting and unsafe. A smartphone heads-up display (HUD) projects essential driving information straight to your windshield.

It ultimately lets you maintain your eyes on the road while still receiving turn-by-turn directions, speed alerts, and other critical data. By minimizing distractions and enhancing situational awareness, it helps improve safety and navigation efficiency.

10. Innovative Rear-View Mirror

Innovative Rear-View Mirror

A very recent upgrade to modern cars is the intelligent rear-view mirror. It overlaps the usual rearview mirror and comes with a built-in camera. The driver gets a clear, uninterrupted view of the car’s back, which reduces the possibility of the car crashing. These mirrors are a life-savior if your view is blocked by cargo or passengers sitting at the back. 

The Bottom Line

From convenience and safety to comfort and entertainment, these surprising car accessories cater to a wide range of needs and preferences, ensuring that every trip is enjoyable, efficient, and memorable.

By embracing the latest advancements in automotive technology, you can transform your car into a smart and sophisticated travel companion, ready to accompany you on all your adventures.

So, are you all set to enhance your next car journey? Make sure to use these accessories to improve your overall traveling experience. This article comes to a conclusion now. Thank you for reading it till the end. If there’s something you would like to share, do comment below and let us know. Until then, happy reading. 

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Ankita Tripathy loves to write about food and the Hallyu Wave in particular. During her free time, she enjoys looking at the sky or reading books while sipping a cup of hot coffee. Her favourite niches are food, music, lifestyle, travel, and Korean Pop music and drama.

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READ MORE Pigeon Forge

Six Things To Do If You’re In Pigeon Forge

BY  Arnab Apr 4, 2023

Are you tired of choosing between a relaxing water vacation and a mountain getaway? Are you looking for a memorable experience with family? If the answer's yes, then look no further than Pigeon Forge, Tennessee – the ultimate destination for thrill-seekers, foodies, and relaxation enthusiasts alike! Resting in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains and just a stone's throw away from Knoxville, Gatlinburg, and Sevierville, Pigeon Forge has something every traveler craves. It's scenic, it's fun, and pretty much everyone you know has heard of it! If you're planning your next destination and came here searching for the top things to do in Pigeon Forge, we heard you. Checkout Six Best Things To Do If You're In Pigeon Forge Here are our top picks for the absolute best activities the town offers. 1. Hike the Most Picture-Perfect Trails: Pigeon Forge is surrounded by some of Tennessee's most stunning and varied trails. Whether you're looking for a stroll or a challenging hike, you'll find it here. Hike up to Clingmans Dome for spectacular views of the Smokies, or take the gentle walk along the Little Pigeon River in Greenbrier. If you're traveling with kids, the loop around Laurel Falls is a great choice. It is a moderate 2.6-mile hike with a beautiful waterfall at the end. Trust us; you can't beat that! Some hiking trails are also wheelchair-accessible. So, you can bring the whole family along and make some unforgettable memories together. Don't forget to update your playlist before you head out – the best views often come with a soundtrack. 2. Enjoy the Most Entertaining Dinner in Town: What happens when you combine a dinner and a show in the beautiful setting of the Smokies? A wonderful evening out with plenty to talk about! Luckily, Pigeon Forge offers a lot in this department. The Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show provides an interactive and entertaining show while you enjoy a meal. If we talk about the creative intricacy of the set, it's a sight to behold because you'll experience swashbuckling fun, daring acrobats, and live music as you dine in style. Life-sized pirate ships, cannons, beautiful mermaids, and stunning tropical birds in an indoor setting unlike anything you've seen before– it's entertainment for all ages! The four-course meal is lip-smacking good. From a Buccaneer Biscuit and Pan-Fried Chicken to Sugar-Cured Ham and an Herb-Basted Potato, your taste buds will be dancing. 3. Take a Ride on the Smoky Mountain Wheel: If you're looking for the best views of Pigeon Forge and the Smoky Mountains, look no further than the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel. It's an iconic 200-foot tall Ferris wheel that lights up the night sky with over 2 million LED lights! Each cabin is climate-controlled and provides a comfortable ride. So you don't have to worry about feeling numb with the cold. It's the perfect way to take in the beauty of the landscape and appreciate its magnificence from a birds-eye view, as you'll experience 360-degree views of Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, and the Smokies. You can see the majestic mountains, the bustling town below, and all the colorful lights that make this place special. Don't forget to bring your camera here. Your best selfies await! 4. Spend Time at the Hollywood Wax Museum If you love celebrity history, the Hollywood Wax Museum in Pigeon Forge is a must-visit. It features incredible wax replicas of some of the most famous celebrities in Hollywood, including Marilyn Monroe, Brad Pitt, Angelina Jolie, and many more! You can spend hours taking selfies with these celebrities, picking up fun facts about them, and having a great time. They also have an amazing Horror Hall featuring wax figures of famous horror movie icons like Freddy Krueger, Michael Myers, and more. The museum is great for all ages; the little ones will love it too! Your ticket includes admission to the Mirror Maze and Castle of Chaos, so you get plenty of bang for your buck. However, remember that the museum can get crowded, so it's best to come early to beat the lines. 5. Experience What the Titanic Museum Has to Offer Do you have unanswered questions lingering in your mind about the Titanic? If the answer's yes, then you'll get all your answers at the Titanic Museum in Pigeon Forge. Billed as 'half-size to scale,' this museum is a replica of the original ship and features more than 400 artifacts from the vessel. You can explore the grand staircase, touch a real iceberg, try on life jackets, and even stand on a recreation of the deck. It's a great way to relive history and pay respects to those who lost their lives during the disaster. You can also participate in interactive activities like Morse Code messages and hear audio stories from survivors! The museum also features a memorial garden where visitors can pay their respects to the victims of this tragedy. It's definitely worth a visit. It's truly a one-of-a-kind experience. 6. Relive Your Childhood Memories at TopJump Trampoline and Extreme Arena Let's be honest; bouncing on the bed and jumping on the couch were your favorite childhood activities. And if you want to take those memories to a whole new level of wow, TopJump Trampoline and Extreme Arena is where you must be. This ultimate trampoline arena takes jumping to the extreme with a foam pit, dodgeball, basketball, and much more. And if that's not enough of a challenge for you, there's even an extreme zip line and a rock-climbing wall to conquer. While TopJump is technically an indoor activity, you'll definitely work up a sweat with all the jumping and running around. Please wear comfortable clothes and bring a water bottle to stay hydrated! And when you need a break from all the action, you can relax in the air-conditioned lounge with free Wi-Fi, catch up on your favorite shows, or unleash your inner gamer and slime some aliens in the arcade. Final Thoughts These are just a few of the many must-dos in Pigeon Forge! So don't wait any longer – plan your visit soon and explore this beautiful town to its fullest! From thrilling rides to delicious food and picturesque trails, Pigeon Forge offers something for every traveler. We recommend checking the tourist flow and weather before you embark on your journey. It'll help you plan well and avoid unwanted delays. We hope this blog post will help you make the most of your visit to Pigeon Forge and cherish every moment! Read Also: Eight Outdoor Attractions In Pigeon Forge For Thrill-Seekers 8 Reasons To Spend Your Spring Vacation In Pigeon Forge Top Tips For A Terrific Vacation

READ MORE best time to visit bora bora

Bora Bora Bliss: Your Ultimate Guide To Timing Your Dream Vacation!

BY  sagnika Oct 10, 2023

The lagoon of Bora Bora is not just beautiful but more like a paradise, especially when it is still untouched by all the tourist-based issues! Why don't we tell you the best time to visit Bora Bora so you can start planning your vacation? You can take flights to Bora Bora from the U.S. for an average of 28 hours! I know it is too long, but come on, if you want to experience some of the best things, you must work hard! Read the article to learn about the best time to visit Bora Bora and how to get there! An unspoiled paradise, Bora Bora is one of the finest beaches in the world. Much of the Island is surrounded by nature, from beaches to mountains. It is an enchanting place to be, and when you visit Bora Bora, you feel like you are in a comfort zone without worry and stress. Known to have unique features from mountains to beaches, the geography of Bora Bora is interesting! The water is as blue as it gets, and the different colors of the water are therapeutic, so yes, pack your bag, dude! Bora Bora Bliss: Your Ultimate Guide To Timing Your Dream Vacation! Image Source: www.lindsaysilberman.com A volcanic island, Bora Bora is located in the society islands of the Leeward group of French Polynesia. The Island is located south of the Pacific Ocean while Northwest of Tahiti, almost about 165 miles, so the best part is the limited number of visitors. Let me tell you how free and relaxed Bora Bora feels! In peak season, the French Polynesia gets the total number of visitors in a year similar to that of Hawaii's in one week! You will never feel claustrophobic when you visit Bora Bora because the aesthetic is quite relaxed. Bora Bora came from the initial name "Pora pora mai te pora" in Tahitian! The phrase's meaning is "created by the gods," while the abbreviation turned into "Pora Pora," which also means firstborn. So, what did you realize? There is no B in the phrase. So then, how did it get its name, Bora Bora? Explorers and settlers who visited Bora Bora could not clearly understand the phrase or the pronunciation, which led to misinterpretation into "Bola Bola" or "Bora Bora"! Now, the place is known as Bora Bora! History Of Bora Bora! Image Source: assets.hiltonstatic.com An active volcano is the source of the Island, which millions of years ago was in the center of the Island! The volcano is now extinct, giving rise to two peaks, namely Mount Otemanu and Mount Pahia. The volcano is now dormant, but it has created beautiful geographical features. The vistas of the volcano have led to the formation of spectacular views of impressive mountain terrain, soft sandy beaches, and coral reefs. Apart from the formation, the Island was important during World War II to establish a U.S. supply base in 1941 in response to the Pearl Harbor bombing. The Island was used as a defensive fortifications center, seaplane base, an airstrip, and an oil depot during Operation Bobcat in WWII. The Island housed 6000 soldiers between 1942 and 19456. The place has a rich history, contributing further to its beauty. The Tahitian culture, language, and experience inspire visitors and tourists, especially with its integration of tattoos, dance, crafts, and arts! The region is popular for the ancestry of the natives and the art inspired by it! Heiva i Fete is an annual event to showcase art, dance, and tattoos. What Are Your Reasons To Book Bora Bora? Image Source: static.toiimg.com One of the major reasons you must visit Bora Bora is because there is no crowd, even though its name is well-known among people, especially tourists and travelers. I don't know how many more times I will repeat how the place is the very definition of paradise, given that there is such a place! So, if you are wondering, the best time to travel to Bora Bora? Read the article to know more. I will make a list of why you should go to Bora Bora, considering this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity! Geographical Features A dramatic peak, Mt Otemanu, is something you cannot miss, especially to learn about the volcanic past of the Island. A string of little islands or coral motus surrounds the mountain, creating a perfect natural beauty for the visitors! Exclusive Place To Be An exotic vision, Bora Bora is a treat to visitors' eyes and souls, so if you are spending a vacation there, you are one of the most privileged travelers worldwide! Only some people go there or, should we say, cannot because the place is expensive! They Are Isolated And Unspoiled! You will not get a cheap cruise, nor will you be able to make road trips! You have to fly to Tahiti to access this Island, which mostly takes more than three plane rides. Hence, it has become an exclusive location for travelers who love isolated places. It is one of the most untouched beaches worldwide, with clean water and no waste. As it is often said, French Polynesia is a pure place as most islands are pristine by modernism, industrialism, and capitalism. The natives have integrated their culture, creating a secluded environment perfect for people looking for a luxurious and organic environment. Unique Experience! You can enjoy unique experiences, some too adventurous compared to other places, such as swimming with sharks! I know it sounds dangerous, but it's not! Trust me! Trained individuals are helping you get some of the coolest experiences, including tropical fish swimming in a bathtub and watching the sunset across the lagoon! You can also gorge on some of the best French delicacies! Experience Bora Bora - To Its Hilt! Image Source: annaeverywhere.com I know! You are neck-deep in extensive research on how to travel to Bora Bora! Did we crop up in your search? Well, for good reasons! I will share with you some of the best experiences of Bora Bora, the places you must visit, and the food you must have! Discoveries are waiting for you in Bora Bora, and it sure was for me! Some travelers have shared their insights on the place, and one pattern that I have noticed is that everyone has a unique and different realization with their visit to Bora Bora! The breathtaking Island has white sandy beaches, blue water of the lagoons, and coral gardens while hiking on the mountain! The lush green vegetation creates beautiful locales, so let's explore more features that will confirm your plans for Bora Bora! Wondering, when is the best time to go to Bora Bora? Read along! What Is The Best Time To Visit Bora Bora? Image Source: images.contentstack.io When do you think, best time to go to Bora Bora? If you plan to visit Bora Bora in fine weather, you must go in November and April! The temperature is between mid-70s to mid-80s and is known as the wet season because of the rain! So, the Bora Bora rainy season is the perfect time to be! The best part is the stunning sunset, soft breeze, and vibrant rainbows that follow the rain! During these months, if you want to wear skimpy clothes and dip on the beach, this is your time, ladies! However, the best time to visit Bora Bora is between May and October! It is called the high season because the geographical features are further highlighted with isolated rain sequences and dry spells, leading to an increasing number of tourists! Bora Bora is perfect for boat excursions, scuba diving, and snorkeling all year round, so if you are a water-baby, you must visit the place to enjoy the water activities. If you are looking to visit Bora Bora but are restricted in budget, go in December, when you will find deals on flights and accommodations quite cheap! There are fewer tourists, which will give you more privacy and get the complete value of your money. Where To Go! Image Source: lp-cms-production.imgix.net Three villages constitute Bora Bora, namely Vaitape, Faanui, and Anau. Depending on your mood and preferences, they offer beautiful places for adventure, unwinding, and relaxation! The activities to perform there are diverse, especially with both high grounds and water surrounding you. Do not forget to explore the marine life, soak in the sun, and visit the villages to buy Tahitian black pearls, colorful pareo wraps, scented oils, soaps, and hand-made crafts. The five places you must visit when traveling to Bora Bora are as follows: Mt. Otemanu Image Source: a.travel-assets.com The mountain is as green as it gets! An enigma in itself, especially when it has formed in the heart of the Island, the mountain is volcanic and can be seen from far away, from any point of the Island. A guided hike is what I will suggest you have if you are an adventure person, or else get yourself a boat to experience the beauty of it! Lagoonarium Image Source: thalasso.intercontinental.com Do you love visiting aquariums? Do you want to know a place where you can check out different marine lives without the glass, feeling as real as it gets? The Lagoonarium is one such attraction at Bora Bora, where the motus has formed from the outer ring of the lagoon. It boasts of a wide variety of sea animals as they are in their natural habitat. You can watch turtles and sharks and enjoy swimming with them! Further, feeding sharks and rays is also an activity, part of your tourist bucket list. Motu Tapu Image Source: d3e1m60ptf1oym.cloudfront.net One of the most photographed worthy beaches in the South Pacific, it is a mixture of beauty and luxury as there are beautiful resorts, especially for special guests! They enjoy their days with the most beautiful sunsets and Tahitian meals on the shore. For a quintessential experience, you must adore wraparound skirts and wear flowers in your hair! If anything was missing, it is this to make you feel like you are in paradise. Matira Beach Image Source: www.worldbeachguide.com To experience white sand and coconut groves, visit the Matira beach at Bora Bora, a perfect background for that perfect beach day! You can snorkel, and swimmers can enjoy watching tropical fishes of different varieties along with colorful corals! Coral Gardens Image Source: www.tohoraborabora.com The reef population of the Bora Bora island is incomparable, and you have to go snorkeling to check them out below water! Around the Island, the reefs are colorful, and there are different types of fish, such as puffer fish, snapper, grouper, butterfly fish, and Picasso triggerfish! What To Eat! Image Source: www.polynesiaparadise.com Bora Bora is pricey because of the imported food. However, the local Polynesian food is fresh and so delicious you will fall in love! Why don't you save some time and enjoy yourself by combining Polynesian and Tahitian food, dance, and the whole cultural experience on the shores? Roulette Matira Image Source: www.boraboraislandguide.com Specializing in Polynesian, the restaurant is well established, but compared to others, it is more recent! It was the perfect snack bar with delicious smoothies, burgers, and samosas! If you are looking for something affordable and friendly, this is it! Lagoon Restaurant By Jean-Georges Image Source: resizer.otstatic.com With a sea view, this restaurant serves delicious food! Rated 4.5 out of 5 on Tripadvisor based on 771 reviews, people are in love with the food and the ambiance! You can order anything from contemporary, Polynesian, European, Seafood, and French in this restaurant! There is a glass floor of the lagoon, which creates a beautiful vibe! The staff is friendly while you visit for after-hours, drinks, and dinner! Apart from these options are vegan options, gluten-free options, and vegetarian-friendly food. Bloody Mary's Image Source: www.tahiti.com One of the most popular restaurants in Bora Bora, Bloody Mary's, has 1695 reviews on Tripadvisor, where people appreciate the food, atmosphere, and services! The different cuisines are available in the Polynesian, Tahitian, Seafood, Bar, and American restaurants! You can go to the restaurant for lunch, drinks, dinner and after-hours! The reason why the restaurant is popular is because a lot of celebrities visit here! The wooden tables cover the floor with sand, giving an exotic experience. Tama's Maitai Image Source: www.tripadvisor.in The restaurant is rated 4 out of 5 based on 233 reviews. Well, you know what I am talking about! This restaurant will offer international, European, French, and Polynesian cuisines! The food and the service are well-valued by the customers! There are both table services, reservations, and outdoor seating! They serve alcohol with a full bar, so keep the drinks coming! The food next to the lagoon, the view, and the efficient and friendly staff are beautiful! Have You Booked Tickets Yet? With all the discussion and research, you know what? I am ready for a vacation at Bora Bora. Now that I have shared with you the best time to visit Bora Bora, start saving up, or if you already have money, take that break, girl! With a variety of cuisines and cultures, get inspired and enjoy the beautiful geographical features of the Island, and the diverse marine lives there! A laid-back casual experience of the restaurants, sandy beaches, coconut groves, and water activities will make a box of memories for a lifetime. Comment down below about what you think is the best feature of Bora Bora and why! Read Also: Maldives’ Luminescent Secret: The Mesmerizing Sea Of Stars! The Stairway To Heaven Hawaii: Hiking Adventure’s Hidden Gem Walking On Sunshine: Exploring The Magic Of Vietnam’s Golden Hand Bridge!

READ MORE Pecos National Historical Park

Welcome To The Pecos National Historical Park: The Land Of The First American Revolution

BY  Sibashree Sep 12, 2024

I stood before the remnants of the South Pueblo walls, looking over the Mission Church on an autumn day last year. Looking at the archaeological site and standing below the blue fall sky, I was transported to the time of the American Revolution.  Further, I could hear the noise of a bustling trade fair with people from the Pecos Pueblo community doing business. However, the historical importance of the park is much beyond its association with the American Revolution. It is also related to the Civil War in New Mexico and the Independence of Mexico.  So, with centuries of human history etched in every corner, the Pecos National Historical Park is an intersection of past tales and nature. To be honest, The Pecos Pueblo and Santa Fe Trail were the biggest highlights for me when I was at the national park.  Therefore, my ode to the park will start with brief accounts of these places. Then, I will talk about the Glorieta Pass, again a site of historical importance in the park. Finally, you will have a quick look at the park's wildlife.  Pecos National Historical Park: A Land Of Historic Wars And Revolutions  The history of human lives in the Pecos National Historical Park goes back to the Preceramic Period or the 11,500 B.C.E. - 600 C.E. However, the Pecos Pueblo site in the park became a prominent place in the history of the American Revolution in the Early Colonial and Pre-Revolt era.  Spanish people started interacting with the Pueblo people. Further, thanks to the Franciscan Missions, the Spanish rule wanted to have command over the economic life and beliefs of the Pueblo people.  Thus, the first seeds of the American Revolution were sown. To combat the oppression of the Spanish people, the Pueblo Revolt took place on 10th August 1680. As a result, the Spanish Government and Franciscan Friars were expelled from the southwest under the leadership of  Po’pay from Ohkay Owengeh. The Spanish Mission Church, built in 1625, was also destroyed in the revolt of 1680.  However, in 1692, the Spanish People further reclaimed the Pecos Pueblo and many other pueblos. Finally, the Pueblo people declined in numbers in 1700. Before, during, and after the first American Revolution, The Pecos Pueblo emerged as an important location with significant events around it!  Further, around 200 years later (1821-1846 C.E.), another site in the park, the  Santa Fe Trail, witnessed travelers, settlers, and everyone else passing through it. The trail was opened in 1821 after Mexico gained its independence from Spain.  The remains of Pecos Pueblo stood there! By the 1830s, the migration of the Pubelo people was complete, and everyone had shifted to the Pueblo of Jemez and continued their traditions.  Moreover, in 1862, there was the “Battle of Glorieta Pass.” On 26th March 1862, this battle between the Union forces and Confederates occurred at a 700 feet elevation.  The Pecos Pueblo Site Today  https://www.instagram.com/p/Cto5MWnS5Oa/ The rise of the Pecos Pueblo site occurred between 1350 C.E. and 1838 C.E. The Pueblo site had two units, the north and south, and could accommodate around 2000 people. Further, it had 1000 rooms. Therefore, Pecos Pueblo thrived as a busy trading center with trade fairs involving people from Rio Grande Pueblos, Plains Nations, the Gulf of Mexico, and the Pacific Coast. The flint arrowheads and shells found here explain the expansive stretch of the route.  Nevertheless, with time, Pecos Pueblo became instrumental in eliminating Spanish oppression and rule. Still, a drop in the trade, Comanche attacks, and diseases deserted Pecos Pueblo. By 1838 C.E., the last resident of the Pueblo had left and joined the Pueblo of Jemez.  Today, the site stands as a relic from the past. However, it is still equally important for archaeologists and historians.  The Santa Fe Trail  Do you know what the Santa Fe Trail marker near Kozlowski's Trading Post says? It says,  Santa Fe Trail 1822-1879 Marked by the daughters of the American Revolution and the Territory of Nex Mexico.  With the independence of New Mexico and the western territories becoming an annexure to New Mexico, the Santa Fe Trail became the route or passage to the westward movement. Naturalists, journalists, travelers, aspirants, traders, and others took this passage as part of the American expansion. Colonel Henry Inman’s “Stories of the Old Santa Fe Trail,” published in 1881, describes the trail well. If you are a history buff, you must read this book well before visiting the Santa Fe Trail today!  “Kozlowski’s Stage Stop and Trading Post” is the highlight of this trail. You can spend some time here to visualize travelers from the past catching some rest after a long journey through the trail. When on the trail, you can explore the remains of the Pueblo and the Mission Church. You can even consider taking a guided tour of the Forked Lightning Ranch.  Glorieta Pass Battlefield Trail  https://www.instagram.com/p/B9xRKctnb3M/ Important Details About the Glorieta Pass Battle1. Reason for Conflict: Union forces and Confederates wanted to control the Glorieta Pass Route through the Sangre de Cristo mountains and the main supply center (Fort Union) for the passage of soldiers and supplies. 2. Contenders: The Confederates, with volunteers from Texas and under the leadership of General Shipley and the Union forces led by Colonel Canby, and soldiers from Fort Union, New Mexico, and Colorado. 3. Battle Begins: March 26, 18624. Reinforcements: 27th March, 18625. Battle Resumes: 28th March, 18626. Battle Ends: 29th March, 18627. Casualty: Death of 375 People 8. Consequence: The Union forces defeat the Confederates as they fail to ruin the Fort Union. Further, the Union forces maintain complete control over Southwest America.  The Glorieta Battlefield Trail is a popular hiking destination today in Pecos National Historical Park. It is a roundtrip loop, and you will have to cover a distance of 2.25 miles to complete your expedition. Further, the unpaved or graveled hiking route makes it moderately difficult for the hikers. In addition, there is an elevation gain of 152 meters.  You have to drive for around 7.5 miles from the main visitor center of the park. You will need to collect a gate code from the visitor center, which is your access code, to open the locked gate in front of the trail.  As you walk through the forest trail, you get to know more about the Civil War in New Mexico. Many infographics are installed throughout the trail, telling you tales from the past. In addition, there are wayside signs and 14 trail markers to explain the history of the battle on this pass in detail.  More About Hiking The Glorieta Pass Battlefield Trail  Time: Around 1 hour Refreshments (Hikers’ Favorites): Pecos Burger at El Maria Bonita (With a lot of meat and a smoky green chilly flavor!) and Chips and Salsa, of course! The Trail Guide you collect from the visitor center already keeps you hooked on the site's history. Indeed, this trail is less about hiking and more about flipping through the pages of the American Civil War in Mexico.  Let’s Hear It From Other Visitors To The Park  “Really nice park. Easy to find and it is free! Inside the visitor center, they had a really great exhibit that followed the pecos overtime. It was super informative and brought a lot more meaning to the actual park. After looking around the exhibit, you can take the trail up and around the park and church. It's amazing that the walls are still there. The view around the park is also beautiful. We spent about 2 hours here.” - Isabelle M. “I really enjoyed this park. My husband didn't care for it but I think it's really amazing what is still here. He thinks it's all recreation and I can't say if it is or not but I know the current Pecos people don't see it that way. It's pretty awesome that it's free to visit and the visitors center has a little museum that's also free! The trail starts near the restrooms. We accidentally started it from the end. But who cares. We saw everything and I recommend checking it out. Native people history is really cool.” - Lydia G. Exploring Wildlife At The Pecos National Historical Park https://www.instagram.com/p/CA-hAl8nrUW/ This historical national park is a hub of wildlife with a 6,500-acre expansion of forests, rivers, grasslands, and streams. The table below enlists the species that call the Pecos National Historical Park their home.  MammalsElk of Northern New MexicoColorado Chipmunk DeerRock SquirrelBirds*Steller’s JayMountain BluebirdBald EagleFish and AmphibiansRio Grande ChubLongnose DaceRainbow TroutBrown TroutNew Mexico Spadefoot ToadWoodhouse ToadTiger SalamanderPlains Leopard FrogReptilesShort-horned LizardNew Mexico Whiptail LizardBull SnakesGarter SnakesPrairie Rattlesnakes You will find the Prairie rattlesnakes along the trails. So, please exercise caution and inform the ranger if you come across one on your way.  A Quick Glance At Some Important Information About Pecos National Historical Park You must quickly look at the important information available about Pecos National Historical Park before you set in. Location: San Miguel County, New Mexico Established: 28th June, 1965 Area: 27 km² Highest Landscape: Truchas Peak, 3990 Meter Visitor Center: Pecos National Historical Park Visitor Center How to Reach: Via State Road 63  Entry Fee: Free Best Time to Visit: Autumn (Early September to Mid October) Also read Why Include Whale Watching In Your LA Itinerary. From Cocktails To Kickflips: Must-Try Activities In San Diego. Kootenay National Park Or The Land Of Ice And Fire (Experiencing Nature’s Game Of Contrasts)