Category: National Parks

Categories
National Parks

Zion National Park, Utah

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Zion National Park is Utah’s first national park and is one among the most visited national parks in the USA. Zion showcases not just the breathtaking views of its expansive canyons, but also offers plenty of other activities like hiking, camping, backpacking, climbing, and more. Hiking through The Narrows and The Subway are extremely challenging.

These photos are from our visit to Zion National Park during the last week of September 2014.

Highway 15 – on the way to Zion National Park
Road Through Zion National Park
Road Through Zion National Park
Road Through Zion National Park
Road Through Zion National Park
Zion Human History Museum
Views of the Towers of the Virgin
View from Zion Human History Museum
Court of the Patriarchs
The Grotto
The Grotto
Views of the Virgin River and Angels Landing, The Grotto area
Weeping Rock
Weeping Rock
Views of Angels Landing and Big Bend from Weeping Rock
Riverside Walk Trail – Starting at the Temple of Sinawava
Riverside Walk Trail – Starting at the Temple of Sinawava
The Narrows
The Narrows
Great White Throne
Road Through Zion National Park
Road Through Zion National Park
Mt. Carmel tunnel, which was completed in 1930
Canyon Overlook Trail
Lower Pine Creek, from the end of the Canyon Overlook Trail
Canyon Overlook Trail
Lower Pine Creek, from the end of the Canyon Overlook Trail
Road through Zion National Park
Red Canyon of Dixie National Forest in Utah
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Quick Facts and Tips

  • Best time to visit: April to October
    • Good weather and less crowd: April to May and September to October
    • Peak Season: June to August
  • Fly into
    • Las Vegas and Salt Lake City: Good deals and major international airports. McCarran International Airport (Las Vegas) is almost a 3 hour drive to the south entrance of Zion National Park and Salt Lake City International Airport is about 4 and 1/2 drive to the south entrance of Zion National Park 
    • Page and Flagstaff: Small airports and limited flights. Page is about 2 and a 1/2 hours drive and Flagstuff is almost 4 and a 1/2 hours drive to the Park entrance
  • Clothing
    • Comfortable pants, hiking shorts, t-shirts, tank tops, capri, sweatshirts, hats, sunglasses, sunscreens, comfortable walking/hiking shoes, and rain gears. It will be cooler in Spring and Fall, so dress in layers
  • How many days: At least one full day
  • Before you go, do not forget to check the park website for alerts on flash floods, road closure, and trail/hike conditions
  • Check the weather forecast before you head out. Flash floods can occur at any time in Zion National Park and are unpredictable. Be aware and avoid those areas that are likely to flood
  • Entrance Fee: $35 per vehicle or from $20 to $30 per person/motorcycle, good for seven days
  • Try to be there early in the morning for best light, more elbow room, and more importantly to get a parking spot. The parking is limited and commonly fill up early in the day
  • The park offers free shuttles during the busiest months (spring, summer and fall). Private vehicles are not allowed when shuttles are running, so taking the park shuttle is mandatory. The shuttle starts at 6 am from Zion Canyon Visitor Center. runs very 8-10 mins and stops at many attraction points
  • Take food and water so you can spend the day touring
  • Weak/no cell phone signals in some areas of the park, highly recommend to have maps downloaded or printed
  • There is a lot to capture, so keep your camera ready. Make sure that your camera is fully charged and also keep backup batteries and memory cards
  • What To Expect
    • Canyons, Towering cliff walls, Orange and Cream Colored rolling ridged mountains, Scattering large pine trees valley, Calm Pools, Weeping Rocks, Virgin River, Waterfalls
  • Places to See
    • Zion Canyon Visitor Center, Museum, Court of the Patriarchs, Emerald Pools, The Grotto, The Weeping Rock, The Big Bend, Temple Of Sinawava, The Narrows, Canyon Overlook
  • Best Things To Do
    • Enjoy driving the Zion Canyon Scenic Road that takes you to many of the parks’ popular landmarks. Road is open to private vehicles from December to February
    • Take a free shuttle bus and enjoy the Zion canyon along the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. The shuttle buses take you to several attraction points including the most famous sites in the park, the Angels Landing and The Narrows. The best way to explore Zion is by taking hassle free, hop and hop the park free shuttle bus
    • Drive the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway which is as scenic as Zion Canyon Drive. Go through the famous Zion-Mt. Carmel Tunnel and enjoy the wonderful ride through the Upper East Canyon. Checkerboard Mesa is the first stop from the East Entrance of the park. The landscape here looks different from other parts of Zion and changes to a mix of white and amber colored stone mountain ridges with large pine trees
  • Easy and Popular Hikes
    • Weeping Rock: A half-mile easy round-trip walk from the shuttle stop (stop #7 on the Zion shuttle bus) offers a close up look of the water dripping from a large bowl shaped hallow stone, beautiful view of the lush hanging gardens that attached to sheer cliff wall, and a unique view of the Great White Throne
    • Riverside Walk: An easy paved 2.2 mile round trail runs along the Virgin river and is the last stop on the Zion shuttle bus (stop #9, Temple of Sinawava). This trail offers lush hanging gardens, colored hugging rock wall, great views of the Virgin river and waterfalls. The more rugged Narrow Trail begins at the end of the Riverside walk trail where the canyon becomes so narrow. The Narrow is a gorge with walls a thousand feet tall and the river just 20-30 feet wide
    • Lower and Upper Emerald Pool: A winding 2 mile round-trip paved trail from the shuttle stop (stop #5 Zion Lodge) offers a weeping wall, waterfalls, bridges and calm pools at the base
    • Grotto Trail: A nice and short one mile round trip trail that connects Zion Lodge (shuttle bus stop #5) to the Grotto and offers spectacular views of the canyons
    • Canyon Overlook Trail: This 1 mile short, but little steep round trip trail starts immediately after exiting the Zion-Mt. Carmel tunnel in the Upper East Canyon of Zion National Park. This trail offers great views of Zion Canyons, Bridge Mountain, Route 9 switchbacks, Pine Creek Stream and east Temple. Take caution while hiking on those slippery loose sand areas
  • Nearby Attractions
Categories
National Parks

Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

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Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the most visited national parks in the USA and is definitely one of the bucket-list destinations for many national park and outdoor lovers. Rocky Mountain National Park has spectacular landscapes and spans over the Continental Divide in northern Colorado, USA. The park is situated between the towns of Estes Park to the east and Grand Lake to the west. The Park offers different landscapes through majestic snow capped rocky mountains, jagged granite peaks, vast and windswept alpine tundra, picturesque forested valleys, wild woodlands, pristine lakes, tall and seasonal golden aspen trees, graceful waterfalls, colorful wildflowers, and amazing wildlife and many more. The park is home for more than 60 species of mammals, including elk, bighorn sheep, and moose.The park features astonishing alpine scenery through a well accessible series of extraordinary trails.

Click on the links below to explore more.

Quick Facts and Tips

  • Best time to Visit: June to September
    • Fall is great with clear and crips air, blue sky with aspen trees turning golden, but prepare yourself for very chilly morning and evenings
    • Summer is most comfortable, but be ready to beat the crowd
    • Spring is unpredictable, varies between warm, cold, wet and dry and many trails are still covered with snow
  • Fly Into
    • Denver International Airport: Approximately 80 miles to Beaver Meadow visitor Center
  • Clothing
    • Summer: Casual t-shirts, shorts, tank tops, capris, rain jackets, comfortable hiking shoes, light jackets or long sleeves for the cool morning and evenings
    • Fall and Spring: Long sleeves, fleece and warm jackets, vests, scarf, hat, gloves, and comfortable hiking shoes
  • Accommodations: East side Estes park is bigger and has more lodging and restaurants compared to West side Grand Lake. No lodging inside the park, but campsites are available
  • What to expect
    • Impressive snow capped mountains, Wild Woodlands, Jagged Granite peaks and Forested Valleys, Windswept Alpine Tundra, Pristine Lakes, Graceful Waterfalls, Colorful Wildflowers, and Amazing Wildlife
  • How many days: 2 to 3 days
  • Entrance Fee: $25 per vehicle,  $15/$25 per person/motorcycle
  • Be sure to check the Park Website for current updates on roads closures and trails conditions before you heading out
  • Check the weather forecast before you go. Weather changes rapidly so wear layers and  carry rain gear/extra clothing
  • Trail Ridge Road is generally open from the late May through October, depending on weather conditions. Take food and water so you can spend the day touring
  • Starting early is the best way not only to beat the traffic, but also for the best lighting, more elbow room, increased chance of seeing wildlife, and beating out the afternoon thunderstorms
  • Expect long lines, wait times, and delays at entrance stations during the busiest summer season
  • Use park free shuttles as the parking lots fill up quickly and roads are getting congested due to heavy traffic. The free shuttle runs every 30 mins between 9am to 8:30pm from Estes Park Visitor center. Free parking is available at Estes Park Visitor Center. The free Hiker Shuttle Express Route takes you into the park and you can catch the shuttle to Bear Lake Route, Moraine Park Route, or just start hiking directly from the Park & Ride along the Bear Lake Road corridor. More info here
  • The trails are busy during the summer season. Bring plenty of water and snacks like granola bars/frozen grapes
  • Take caution and follow the posted signs while driving through the park for pullovers to take photos or to view wildlife
  • Keep some extra time for stopping for photos, sights, unexpected wildlife encounters, detours, and for unplanned delays
  • Be aware of wildlife on the road or near the road. Viewing wildlife from inside the car is the the best and safest way
  • If you experience high altitude sickness, slow down, sit for a while, drink plenty of water, and take your own time while hiking high elevation trails
  • Weak/no cell phone signals, highly recommend to have maps downloaded or printed
  • There is a lot to capture, so keep your camera ready. Make sure that camera is fully charged and also keep backup battery and memory cards
  • Best things To Do
    • Explore the Estes Park, the east side of the park. Picture and more details here 
    • Enjoy hiking to gorgeous lakes by taking well maintained scenic trails. For more details with images click on Lakes and Trails
    • Have a thrilling and memorable adventure drive on the highway to the sky, the Trail Ridge Road. Pictures and details here
Categories
National Parks

Best Trails in Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

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Popular and easy trails in Rocky Mountain National Park

  • Bear Lake Trail: This is an easy, popular, busy, and short 0.7 mile loop trail. The trail begins from the Bear Lake Trailhead beyond the Bear Lake Ranger Station located at the end of Bear Lake Road. The trail circles around the gorgeous subalpine lake and passes through a woodland of pine and aspen trees and offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks. This trail is best used from March until November. Pictures and more info here
  • Nymph Lake Trail: It is a short, easy, mostly paved 1.2 mile round trip hike from Bear Lake Trailhead. The trail makes a steady climb up with a glimpse of Longs Peak through the jagged forest. The trail offers a beautiful lake with a floating layer of yellow lily pads. In the summer, the lake is covered with yellow blossoms of lily pads. This trail is best used from June until October. Pictures and more info here
  • Dream Lake Trail: This 2 mile round trip hike to Dream Lake begins from Bear Lake Trailhead. The trail offers remarkable views of Hallett Peak, Flattop Mountain, and subalpine lake. The trail becomes a steep climb for a small portion after Nymph Lake. This portion of trail, between Nymph Lake and Dream Lake offers an outstanding view of Longs Peak, Hallett Peak, and an abundance of wildflowers during the summer. At around 1.1 miles from Bear Lake Trailhead, you will hit the junction for the trails that lead to Dream lake and Lake Haiyaha. Take the right trail to continue on towards Dream Lake. This trail is best used from June until October. Pictures and more info here
  • Emerald Lake Trail: This hike is the most popular, busy, and is considered as a moderate trail. This 3.3 mile round trip hike through the forested jagged valley offers amazing scenery with high peaks, three beautiful lakes: Nymph lake, Dream Lake, Emerald Lake, and the waterfalls. The hike to Emerald Lake begins from Bear Lake Trailhead, located at the end of Bear Lake Road. The first lake, Nymph Lake, is at around 0.6 miles. After passing Nymph lake, the hike becomes steep uphill. Continue climbing up about 0.5 miles to reach the second lake, Dream Lake. The trail has a series of steep steps. As you climb up, around 0.5 miles you pass through a very pleasant and impressive pine forest. At the end of the hike, you see the real beauty of Emerald Lake carved by Tyndall Glacier. This trail is best used from June until October. Pictures and more info here
  • Lake Haiyaha Trail: This is a less crowded trail compared to the popular Emerald Lake trail. The hike offers a giant rock-filled blue lake, a waterfall, and colorful wildflowers that bloom throughout the spring season. This 3.6 mile out and back trail begins at Bear Lake Trailhead then goes around Nymph Lake. After passing Nymph lake around 0.3 miles, you hit the junction for the trails that lead to Dream lake and Lake Haiyaha. Take the left trail and hike almost a mile to reach Lake Haiyaha. This trail is best used from June until October. More info here
  • Sprague Lake Trail: This paved trail is a short and easy 0.8 mile loop trail located at the end of Sprague Lake Road. The trail features a beautiful lake and panoramic views of the Continental Divide and majestic peaks reflecting on the lake. The trail is accessible year round. Pictures and more info here
  • Bierstadt Lake Trail: This 3.2 mile loop trail begins from the Bierstadt Lake Trailhead and is considered as moderate. The trail is accessible from June until October. The trail offers a gorgeous lake with stunning panoramic views of mountains along the Continental Divide. It is a steep uphill trail with a series of switchbacks to reach the top of the Bierstadt Moraine. Approximately 1 mile from the Bierstadt Lake Trailhead, just after top of the Bierstadt Moraine, the trail reaches the Bierstadt Lake Loop Trail junction. Take a right at the junction and take a short walk to reach the southwestern shore of the lake for great photos.
  • Alluvial Fan Falls Trail:  It is a short 0.5 mile out and back trail that features a waterfall over big boulders. The falls can be accessible from both east and west side. The trail begins at East/West Alluvial Fan Falls parking lot which is located on Endovalley road less than a mile drive from Fall river road. Even though the paved portion of the trail is short, you can continue climbing the boulders along the waterway to get a closer look at the waterfalls. This trail is best used from May until October. Pictures and more info here
  • Alpine Ridge Trail: This is a short 0.7 mile out and back trail, but fairly steep. The trail begins at the far end of the parking area for the Alpine Visitor Center on Trail Ridge Road. The entire trail goes around the alpine tundra and offers spectacular 360 degree  views of the snow capped mountain range,  seasonal display of beautiful wildflowers and wildlife sightings. It will be quite windy and cold even in the summer, so dress accordingly. The trail is best used from June until September. Pictures and more info here
Categories
National Parks

Trail Ridge Road, Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

Trail Ridge Road
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Trail Ridge Road, a highway to the sky in Rocky Mountain National Park is the most scenic, highest, and continuous two laned paved road in the United States. The Trail Ridge Road is actually a stretch of U.S. Highway 34 and the road covers 48 miles between Estes Park on the east side and Grand Lake on the west side of Rocky Mountain National Park. The road winds and climbs up about 4,000 feet in a matter of minutes. It crosses the Continental Divide and reaches the high point at 12,183 feet elevation where evergreen forests come to a halt. Depending on weather conditions, Trail Ridge Road is generally open from late May through October. This fascinating drive takes you to a variety of habitats through woodlands of aspen/pines to thick subalpine forests of fir and spruce, and from lowland mountain meadows to alpine tundra. The drive on Trail Ridge Road offers phenomenal views of mountain range, amazing wildlife sightings, and spectacular seasonal alpine wildflower. The drive on Trail Ridge is so thrilling and is definitely a memorable experience.

Along the way there are numerous overlooks. It takes anywhere between 1 ½  hours to 4 hours to drive on Trail Ridge Road depending on traffic and stops at overlooks. Drive slowly and follow the traffic. Stop at every overlook, don’t rush, take a stroll to overlooks, relax, and enjoy the remarkable views. If you experience high altitude sickness, slow down, sit for a while, drink plenty of water, and take your own time.

These photos are from our drive on Trail Ridge Road in Rocky Mountain National Park in late September 2019. Drive through Trail Ridge Road in summer is more beautiful and pretty as the landscapes welcome with more green lands with a blanket of colorful wildflowers, amazing wildlife, and stunning snow capped peaks in the backdrops.

Entering Estes Park, Big Thompson Ave (US 34)
Moraine Ave (US 36)
Park Entrance Road, US 36
Park Entrance Road, US 36
Hidden Valley Road
View of Long Peaks in distance, Many Parks Curve Overlook, Trail Ridge Road
View of Upper Beaver Meadow from Many Parks Curve Overlook, Trail Ridge Road
Many Parks Curve Overlook at Trail Ridge Road
Rainbow Curve Overlook, Trail Ridge Road
Rainbow Curve Overlook, Trail Ridge Road
View of Alluvial Fan Falls and Horseshoe Park, Rainbow Curve Overlook, Trail Ridge Road
Forest Canyon Overlook
Forest Canyon Overlook
Forest Canyon Overlook
Trail Ridge Road
Rock Cut, Trail Ridge Road
Rock Cut, Trail Ridge Road
Trail Ridge Road, View from Toll Memorial Trail
Mushroom Rock, Toll Memorial Trail
Mushroom Rock, Toll Memorial Trail
Toll Memorial Trail
Lava Cliffs Overlook, Trail Ridge Road
Lava Cliffs Overlook, Trail Ridge Road
Trail Ridge Road
Gore Range Overlook
View from Alpine Visitor Center
Alpine Visitor Center
View from Alpine Visitor Center
Alpine Ridge Trail
Medicine Bow Curve Overlook, Trail Ridge Road
Poudre Lake
Milner Pass
Farview Curve Viewpoint, Trail Ridge Road
Grand Lake
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Trail Ridge Road Attractions from Estes Park (east side) to Grand Lake (west side)

  • Many Parks Curve Overlook: A hairpin turn at Trail Ridge road. The boardwalk across the road from the parking lot takes to the sweeping views of Longs Peak, the park’s only peak that rises above 14,000 feet, Deer Mountain, many towering peaks, and massive lowland meadows Moraine Park, Horseshoe Park, Upper Beaver Meadows
  • Rainbow Curve Overlook: Features incredible views of Horseshoe Park, Deer Mountain, the Mummy Mountain range, and Alluvial Fan Falls
  • Forest Canyon Overlook: A short stroll offers massive views of eastern edge of Forest Canyon and a deep U-shaped green valley
  • Toll Memorial Trail (Tundra Communities Trailhead): The trail features beautiful seasonal wild flowers, alpine tundra meadows, Mushroom Rocks, viewpoints of Longs Peak, the Continental Divide, and wildlife sightings
  • Lava Cliffs Overlook: Features a rare section of volcanic rock cliffs
  • Gore Range Overlook: Offers views of the Never Summer Mountains and the Gore Range as it sits above the treeline in the alpine tundra
  • Rock Cut: Feathers a beautiful projecting rock formation looking like big welcoming towers. The rock had to be cut in order to allow the Trail Ridge Road to pass through it
  • Alpine visitor Center: Located at the top of the Trail Ridge Road at 11,796 feet above the sea level,  and is a great place to relax. It features a 360 degree view of the remarkable alpine mountain peaks and alpine tundra. Restaurants, gift shops, and restrooms are available. You can hike the short, uphill, steep 0.6 mile Alpine Ridge Trail. The hike offers outstanding panoramic views of mountain peaks, beautiful alpine tundra scenery, and seasonal wildflowers
  • Medicine Bow Curve Overlook: A hairpin turn on Trail Ridge Road. This is the right place to take panoramic views of the Medicine Bow Mountains, known as the Never Summer Mountains
  • Farview Curve Overlook: Features spectacular views of an expansive Kawuneeche Valley and the Never Summer Range 
Categories
National Parks

East Side, Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

Moraine Park, View from Moraine Road
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Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the most visited national parks in the USA. It is renowned for its spectacular landscapes. The park is situated between the towns of Estes Park to the east and Grand Lake to the west in the state of Colorado. Estes Park town is in northern Colorado and it is the base for the Rocky Mountain National Park. Estes Park has more lodging and restaurants than Grand Lake. The East side of the park mesmerizes with its incredible landscapes from snow capped granite peaks to crystal clear lakes and gorgeous waterfalls along with many accessible trails with stunning views.

These photos are from a two day visit to Rocky Mountain National Park in late September 2019. The Aspen trees started turning into golden colors, the alpine tundra turned to yellowish brown, and the elk mating season had just begun. These brought the park’s magnificent views though it was a cloudy and gloomy day.

Big Thompson Canyon Road (US 34)
Entering Estes Park, Big Thompson Ave (US 34)
Upper Beaver Meadows Road
Upper Beaver Meadows Road
Overlook at US 36 (South Navy Hill Road)
West Horse Shoe Park, Overlook at Fall River Road
West Horse Shoe Park, Overlook at Fall River Road
Alluvial Fan Falls Hiking Area
Alluvial Fan Falls Hiking Area
Alluvial Fan Falls
Alluvial Fan Falls
Sheep lakes, Fall River Road
Sheep lakes, Fall River Road
Sheep lakes, Fall River Road
Moraine Park, View from Moraine Road
Elks freely roaming around at Moraine Park, View from Moraine Road
Moraine Park, View from Moraine Road
Moraine Park, View from Moraine Road
Moraine Park, View from Moraine Road
Elks freely roaming around at Moraine Park, View from Moraine Road
Views from Cub Lake Trailhead
Views from Cub Lake Trailhead
Elk spotted at Bear Lake Road
Moraine Park, View from Bear Lake Road
Moraine Park, View from Bear Lake Road
Moraine Park, View from Bear Lake Road
View from South Moraine Road Parking Lot
Moraine Park, View from Bear Lake Road
View from South Moraine Road Parking Lot
View from South Moraine Road
View from South Moraine Road Parking Lot
View from Bear Lake Road
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Places to Go

  • Moraine Park, Horseshoe Park, Sheep Lakes, Moraine Park discovery Center and Amphitheater, Alluvial Fan Falls, Alberta Falls
  • Bear Lake, Nymph Lake, Dream Lake, Emerald Lake, Lake Haiyaha, Sprague Lake, Bierstadt Lake, Cub Lake

Best Things To Do

  • Drive along the scenic Bear Lake Road. Visit Moraine Park Discovery Center and Moraine Park Amphitheater. There are plenty of pull-outs or overlooks along Bear Lake Road. Keep some extra time for stopping for photos, wildlife, sights, and for unplanned delays
  • Take a short drive on South Moraine Road and Fern Lake Road. Enjoy Moraine Park which has vast beautiful meadows and amazing roaming wildlife in the backdrop of snow capped peaks of the Rocky Mountains in the distant
  • Drive Fall River Road and stop at the scenic overlook Horseshoe Park and Sheep Lakes. Good photo-op for elk and sheep in this scenic meadow
  • Hike the Bear Lake Loop Trail and embrace the gorgeous lake surrounded by the magnificent peaks. More info here
  • Enjoy hiking to Emerald Lake, a stunning emerald green alpine lake which offers outstanding views of Longs Peak, Hallett Peak, and wildflowers. The hike is more delightful with the beautiful floating lily pads covering Nymph Lake and gorgeous Dram Lake along the way. More details here
  • Hike to the gorgeous waterfall Alberta Falls that falls over a rocky cliff. This waterfall is easily accessible from the Glacier Gorge parking area or the Bear Lake parking area
  • Relax and relish at Alluvial Fan Falls. The trail feathers a waterfall over big boulders. This trail also offers hiking, walking, nature trips, and bird watching
  • Hike the popular and splendid Sprague Lake Trail, Bierstadt Lake Trail, Lake Haiyaha Trail, Cub Lake Trail and Fern Lake Trail
  • Explore downtown Estes Park
  • Ride the Estes Park Aerial Tramway
  • Enjoy kayaking on Lake Estes
Categories
National Parks

Lakes, Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

Bear lake
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Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the most popular national parks in the U.S. The park mesmerizes people with its breathtaking diverse landscapes of snow covered mountains, jagged valleys, pristine lakes, alpine trees and tundra, seasonal abundance wildflowers, and amazing wildlife. The park is a paradise with many gorgeous alpine lakes. The park has 156 lakes with 450 miles of streams. There are plenty of scenic paths with 300 miles of hiking trails that will lead to a number of pristine and crystal blue picturesque lakes within the park.

These photos are from our two day visit to Rocky Mountain National Park in the last week of September 2019.

Bear Lake Trail
Bear lake
Bear Lake
Bear lake
Bear Lake Trail
Bear Lake Trail
Bear Lake Trail
Bear Lake
Nymph Lake
Nymph Lake
Nymph Lake
View from Dream Lake to Emerald Lake hike
View from Dream Lake to Emerald Lake hike
View from Dream Lake to Emerald Lake hike
Dream Lake
Dream Lake
Views of Hallett Peak, Flattop Mountain and subalpine Dream Lake
View from Dream Lake to Emerald Lake hike
View from Dream Lake to Emerald Lake hike
Emerald Lake
Emerald Lake
View of Continental Divide Mountains from Sprague Lake Trail
Sprague Lake Trail
Sprague Lake Trail
Sprague Lake Trail
Sprague Lake Trail
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Places to Go

  • Bear Lake, Nymph Lake, Dream Lake, Emerald Lake, Lake Haiyaha, Sprague Lake, Bierstadt Lake, Cub Lake, Sky Pond, The Loch Lake, Gem Lake, Chasm Lake

Best Things To Do: Enjoy hiking easy, popular, less than 4 mile short trails that are the most scenic. Embrace the breathtaking views of the gorgeous lakes surrounded by magnificent peaks along the hikes.

  • Bear Lake Trail: This is an easy, popular, busy, and short 0.7 mile loop trail. The trail begins from the Bear Lake Trailhead beyond the Bear Lake Ranger Station located at the end of Bear Lake Road. The trail offers a gorgeous lake surrounded by magnificent peaks. The trail circles around the subalpine lake and passes through a woodland of pine and aspen trees. Parking lots fill up quickly during the morning of the summer season so start early for a better chance to get a parking spot; you will be lucky to get a parking spot early. It is highly recommended to use the free park shuttle at the Estes Park Visitor Center in order to avoid the congested traffic and hassle of parking. Do the hike in the early morning in the counterclockwise direction for great photos of Hallett Peak and Longs Peak reflecting off the lake during calm weather.
  • Nymph Lake: It is a short, easy, mostly paved 1.2 mile round trip hike from the Bear Lake Trailhead. The trail makes a steady climb up with a glimpse of Longs Peak through the jagged forest. The trail offers a beautiful lake with the floating layer of yellow lily pads. In the summer, the lake is covered with yellow blossoms of lily pads. You can further continue hiking to reach another pretty lake, Dream Lake.
  • Dream Lake: This 2 mile round trip hike to Dream Lake begins from the Bear Lake Trailhead. The trail becomes a steep climb for a small portion after Nymph Lake. This portion of trail, between Nymph Lake and Dream Lake offers an outstanding view of Longs Peak, Hallett Peak, and an abundance of wildflowers during the summer. At around 1.1 miles from the Bear Lake Trailhead you will hit the junction for the trails that lead to Dream lake and Lake Haiyaha. Take the right trail to continue on towards Dream Lake. At the end, the views of Hallett Peak, Flattop Mountain, and subalpine lake are spectacular. You can further continue to hike to another jewel Emerald Lake.
  • Emerald Lake Trail: This hike is the most popular, busy, and is considered as a moderate trail. This 3.3 mile round trip hike through the forested jagged valley offers amazing scenery with high peaks, three beautiful lakes: Nymph lake, Dream Lake, Emerald Lake, and the waterfalls. The hike to Emerald Lake begins from the Bear Lake Trailhead, located at the end of Bear Lake Road. The first lake, Nymph Lake is at around 0.6 miles. After passing Nymph lake, the hike becomes steep uphill. Continuing climbing up about 0.5 miles to reach the second lake, Dream Lake. The trail has a series of steep steps. If you experience high altitude sickness, slow down, sit for a while, drink plenty of water, and take your own time.  As you climb up, around 0.5 miles you pass through a very pleasant and impressive pine forest. At the end of the hike, you see the real beauty of Emerald Lake carved by Tyndall Glacier. Embrace the subalpine lake while listening to the sound of a waterfall rushing down the gorge between the two mountains.
  • Lake Haiyaha Trail: This is a less crowded trail when compared to the popular Emerald Lake trail. This 3.6 mile out and back trail begins at Bear Lake Trailhead then goes around Nymph Lake. After passing Nymph lake around 0.3 miles, you hit the junction for the trails that lead to Dream lake and Lake Haiyaha. Take the left trail and hike almost a mile to reach Lake Haiyaha. The hike offers a giant rock-filled blue lake, a waterfall, and colorful wildflowers that bloom throughout the spring season.
  • Sprague Lake Trail: This paved trail is a short and easy 0.8 mile loop trail located at the end of Sprague Lake Road. The trail features a beautiful lake and impressive surrounding peaks. Hike the trail in the morning to capture wonderful photos of panoramic views of the Continental Divide and majestic peaks reflecting on the lake. The sunset reflections surrounded by snow-capped mountain peaks at Sprague Lake is also simply amazing.
  • Bierstadt Lake Trail: This 3.2 mile loop trail begins from the Bierstadt Lake Trailhead and is considered as moderate. The trail offers a gorgeous lake with stunning panoramic views of mountains along the Continental Divide. It is a steep uphill trail with a series of switchbacks to reach the top of the Bierstadt Moraine. Approximately 1 mile from the Bierstadt Lake Trailhead, just after top of the Bierstadt Moraine, the trail reaches the Bierstadt Lake Loop Trail junction. Take right at the junction and a short walk in order to reach the southwestern shore of the lake for great photos.
Categories
National Parks

Acadia National Park, Maine

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Acadia National park is located in the north-easternmost U.S. state Maine, basically on Maine’s Mount Desert Island. The park maintains parts of Mount Desert Island, coastal Schoodic Peninsula, and many adjacent smaller islands. The Park offers different landscapes through woodlands, rocky beaches, rugged cliffs, and granite peaks such as Cadillac Mountain. Bar Harbor town is on the bay side and is a popular tourist spot with restaurants and shops. With the breathtaking views of jagged coastlines, colorful cliffs, and natural lakes, Acadia has more activities like hiking, biking, and camping.Click on the links below to explore more.

Park Loop Road
Schoodic Pennisula
Acadia National Park Trails

Quick Facts and Tips

  • Best time to Visit: Fall
    • Summer is good, but be ready to beat the crowd
    • Spring is not bad, but be prepared for foggy, rainy, and chilly days
  • Fly Into
    • Closest: Hancock County–Bar Harbor Airport (BHB) and Bangor International Airport (BGR)
    • Good Deals: Portland International Jetport and Boston Logan International Airport. It is almost a 3 hour drive to Acadia National park from Portland International Airport. Also consider Boston Logan International Airport, then catch a direct flight to Hancock County–Bar Harbor Airport (BHB) or drive 4 and half hours to Acadia National Park
  • Clothing
    • Summer: Casual t-shirts, shorts, tank tops, capris, light jackets or long sleeves for the cool morning and evenings
    • Fall: Long sleeves, fleece and warm jackets, vests, scarf, hat and gloves
  • What to expect
    • Beautiful Ocean views, Colorful cliffs, Woodlands, Rocky beaches, Granite peaks such as Cadillac Mountain, Thunder hole, Jordon Pond, Bubble Pond, Bass Harbor Lighthouse, Harbors, Schoodic peninsula, Wildflowers, and Wildlife
  • How many days: 2 to 3 days
  • Entrance Fee: $30 per vehicle, $15/$25 per person/motorcycle, good for seven days
  • Be sure to check the Park Website for current updates on roads closures and trails conditions before you heading out
  • Starting early is the best way not only to beat the traffic, but also for the best lighting and more elbow room
  • It will be freezing during sunrise even in the summer at the Summit of Cadillac mountain, dress accordingly
  • There are plenty of overlooks along The Park Loop Road and Schoodic Peninsula Road. Keep some extra time for stopping for photos, wildlife, sights and for unplanned delays
  • Take food and water so you can spend the day touring
  • Always walk in the middle of the trails and keep away from tall vegetation to avoid ticks. Mostly during late spring to early fall, ticks are prevalent and active in Acadia
  • Weak/no cell phone signals, highly recommend to have maps downloaded or printed
  • There is a lot to capture, so keep your camera ready. Make sure that camera is fully charged and also keep backup battery and memory cards
  • Best things to do
    • Drive the scenic Park Loop Road. The Park Loop road is open April 15 through November. It is like a hop on hop off road, so allow yourself at least four to five hours to enjoy the number of gorgeous overlooks along the drive through the Park Loop Road
    • Enjoy a wonderful relaxing walk, or a bike ride or horse-drawn carriage ride along the 45 miles of carriage road in Acadia Carriage Road. This features the beautiful valleys of Acadia into the heart of Mount Desert Island. Private vehicles are prohibited on Carriage Road
    • Enjoy hiking some of the popular and easy trails
    • Relax and relish the beauty of the ocean at Schoodic Point
    • Take a Boat Tour of Acadia. There are many companies like Acadian Boat Tours and Bass Harbor Cruises offerings tours of the islands and costliness of Acadia National Park
Categories
National Parks

Best Trails in Acadia National Park, Maine

Acadia National Park Trails
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Popular and easy trails in Acadia National Park

  • Cadillac Summit Loop Trail:  This 0.3 mile short walk from the parking lot offers gorgeous views of a glaciated coastal and island landscape. Seeing the sunrise at the summit itself is a magical experience. Cadillac Mountain is the East Coast’s highest mountain at 1,530 feet and the loop trail at the summit offers picturesque 360 degree views. It gets cold in the morning and evening so make sure to dress accordingly. No matter what time of the year you go, you will definitely hit the crowd.
  • Ocean Path: This is a flat 2.2 mile trail from Sand Beach to Otter Point (or vice versa). This path along the ocean is the best option for viewing sunrises and awesome cliffs and ocean views. There are plenty overlooks along the path where you can sit, have your own time, relax, and embrace the beauty of the nature on full display.
  • Jordan Pond Path: 3.3 loop trail, starts at Jordan Pond parking lot, presents a spectacular view of the Bubble Mountains and the clear Jordan lake and is good for all skill levels.
  • Thunder Hole: Visit Thunder Hole to experience huge splashes with thunderous booming sounds against the natural rocks on the shore. Try to visit during high tides for optimal thunder splashes as the big waves crash to the hole. The parking lot is across the road and there are ramps that leads to the partially down to the Thunder hole.
  • Ship Harbor Trail: 1.3 mile loop trail near Southwest Harbor that offers beautiful wild flowers, colored rocky shorelines, open blue bay, and is good for all skill levels. The trailhead is located just a few minutes from Bass Harbor Lighthouse in Southwest Harbor. The trail winds through the beautiful woods and a lake before hitting the ocean and tide pools.
  • The Anvil Trail: This 2 mile out and back trail located near Winter Harbor on Scoodiac loop road is rated as moderate. The trail begins at the Blueberry Hill parking area off the Schoodic Loop Road and quickly climbs through the pine forest to the Anvil. The blue painted patches are either on the rocks or on the trees lead to the summit of Schoodic Head. The hike is sometimes steep and rocky with heavy roots of pine trees. The hike opens up to the beautiful forest and offers panoramic views of the Mount Desert island and beautiful coastline.
Categories
National Parks

Schoodic Peninsula, Acadia National Park, Maine

Schoodic Point
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Schoodic Peninsula is part of Acadia National Park and is about an hour drive from the Hulls Cove Visitor Center, Bar Harbor on Mount Desert Island. Schoodic Peninsula is one of the less crowded areas of the Park with spectacular and unforgettable views of huge waves crashing onto the colored rocks covered coastline. This is the only part of the Park on the main land that can be easily accessed by road. After passing Winter Harbor town, this 11 mile one-way scenic loop road goes all around the Peninsula that runs parallel to the ocean and offers many attractive pullovers.

These photos are from our two day visit to Acadia National Park in mid September 2012.

Schoodic Loop Road
Schoodic Loop Road
Schoodic Loop Road
Schoodic Peninsula Road
Schoodic Loop Road
Schoodic Loop Road
Schoodic Loop Road
Schoodic Point
Seagull at Schoodic Point
Schoodic Loop Road
Schoodic Loop Road
Anvil Trail
Anvil Trail, Schoodic Loop Road
Winter Harbor
Winter Harbor
Schoodic Peninsula Road
Schoodic Point
Schoodic Peninsula Road
Schoodic Point
Schoodic Point
Schoodic Peninsula Road
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Best things to do

  • Drive alongside the beautiful ocean on the Schoodic Peninsula loop road. The scenic and relaxed drive offers many pullovers with stunning views of the ocean, crashing and splashing big waves, rocky beaches and tide pools, pink granite and boulders covered coastline, forested islands, lighthouses, seabirds, and most importantly, opens up for spectacular sunsets as well as sunrises. 
  • Enjoy hiking the Anvil Trail. This 2 mile out and back trail is located near Winter Harbor on Schoodic loop road and is rated as moderate. The hike opens up to a beautiful forest, ocean views and a chance to see wildlife
  • Relax and relish the breathtaking view of the ocean at Schoodic Point. Schoodic Point is the southern tip of the Schoodic Peninsula and is totally exposed to ocean waves. It is really amazing to view the pounding waves during the rough seas as well as the stunning views of Cadillac Mountain to the West. Walk around the magnificent colored rocks and boulders and enjoy the breeze.
  • Appreciate the colorful and various size boats at Winter Harbor, the harbor that is not freezing over in winter. Winter Harbor is an attractive port for the local fishermen 
Categories
National Parks

Park Loop Road, Acadia National Park, Maine

Blue HIll Overlook, Cadillac Mountain Road
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Park Loop Road in Acadia National Park offers different landscapes through woodlands, rocky beaches, pristine lakes, and granite peaks such as Cadillac Mountain. Driving through the scenic 27 mile Park Loop Road is like a stop and go for spectacular views.

These photos are from our two day visit to Acadia National Park in mid September 2012.

Blue HIll Overlook, Cadillac Mountain Road
Sunrise at Cadillac Mountain
Sunrise at Cadillac Mountain
Blue HIll Overlook, Cadillac Mountain Road
Blue HIll Overlook, Cadillac Mountain Road
Wild Gardens of Acadia
Wild Gardens of Acadia
Wild Gardens of Acadia
Wild Gardens of Acadia
Sand Beach
Sand Beach
View from Ocean Path
View from Ocean Path
View from Ocean Path
Thunder Hole during low tide
Thunder Hole Area
Monument Cove Overlook, Park Loop Road
Otter Cliff Overlook
Jordan Pond
Jordan Pond
Bubble Pond
Jordan Pond
Bar Harbor
Bar Harbor
Bar Harbor
Southwest Harbor
Southwest Harbor
Southwest Harbor
Southwest Harbor
Southwest Harbor
Bass Harbor
The Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse
Ship Harbor Trail, Southwest Harbor
Ship Harbor Trail, Southwest Harbor
Squirrel eating nuts at Ship Harbor Trail
Balancing Rock!
Ship Harbor Trail, Southwest Harbor
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Quick Facts and Tips

  • Overlooks on the Park Loop Road
    • Cadillac Mountain, Wild Gardens of Acadia, Beaver Dam Pond, Sand Beach, Thunder Hole, Otter Cliff Overlook, Hunters Beach Overlook, Jordan Pond, Bubble Pond, Southwest Harbor 
  • Popular and easy hikes along the Park Loop Road
    • Cadillac Summit Loop Trail:  This 0.3 mile short walk from the parking lot offers gorgeous views of a glaciated coastal and island landscape. Seeing the sunrise at the summit itself is the magical experience. It gets cold in the morning and evening, dress accordingly. No matter what time of the year you go, you will definitely hit the crowd
    • Ocean Path: This is a flat 2.2 mile trail from Sand Beach to Otter Point (or visa versa). This path along the ocean is the best option for viewing sunrises and awesome cliffs and ocean views
    • Thunder Hole: Visit Thunder Hole to experience huge splashes with thunderous booming sounds against the natural rocks on the shore. Try to visit during high tides for optimal thunder splashes as the big waves crash to the hole
    • Jordan Pond Path: 3.3 loop trail, starts at Jordan Pond parking lot, presents spectacular view of the Bubble Mountains and the clear Jordan lake and is good for all skill levels
  • Other Attractions
    • Seal Harbor Beach: Visit Seal Harbor Beach and have fun playing in the water and sand. It is a great place to relax and is located on Champlain Road (Route ME E) approximately 6 miles from the Park Loop Road. Public bathrooms are across the street and parking is limited
    • Bass Harbor Light House: See the iconic Bass Harbor Light House at the southwest portion of Mount Desert Island. Take a short walk to see the stunning 32 feet tall lighthouse, standing high above the ocean on a rocky cliff. Take a nice trail into the woods and climb the stairs down to the beach, sit on the rocks, watch the sail boats in the distance, gaze out at the nearby islands, and enjoy the sunset. It is a perfect place to relax and relish
    • Ship Harbor Trail: 1.3 mile loop trail near Southwest Harbor offers beautiful wild flowers, colored rocky shorelines, open blue bay, and is good for all skill levels
Categories
Caribbean National Parks

San Juan National Historic Site, Puerto Rico

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San Juan, the capital of Puerto Rico (an unincorporated U.S. territory in the Caribbean islands), is the largest city in the island. It is also the busiest and largest cruise port in the Caribbean. San Juan attracts tourists with its rich heritage, dynamic culture, and colorful Spanish colonial buildings. One of the historical landmarks is San Juan National Historic Site and this site has been declared as an UNESCO World Heritage Site. This historical site is in the Old San Juan region and includes Castillo San Felipe del Morro, Castillo San Cristóbal, most of the city walls, the San Juan Gate, and Fort San Juan de la Cruz.

These photos are from our Eastern Caribbean cruise trip during the second week of February, 2019.

Castillo San Felipe del Morro (El Morro)
Castillo San Felipe del Morro (El Morro)
Castillo San Felipe del Morro (El Morro) and The Lighthouse
Puerta de San Juan – The San Juan Gate
Paseo del Morro Trail
Paseo del Morro Trail
Paseo del Morro Trail
Paseo del Morro Trail
Paseo del Morro Trail
View from Paseo del Morro Trail
The nature trail behind El Morro
The nature trail behind El Morro
Calle De Marro
Castillo San Felipe del Marro
Turret at Castillo San Cristobal in San Juan
Entrance To Sentry Tower Castillo San Felipe Del Morro Fortress
Castillo San Felipe del Marro
Escuela de Artes Plásticas y Diseño de Puerto Rico School, View from Castillo San Felipe del Marro
Sentry Tower Castillo San Felipe Del Morro Fortress
Santa María Magdalena de Pazzis Cemetery
View of a Garita and the Ocean
Entrance to Castillo San Felipe del Morro
Santa María Magdalena de Pazzis Cemetery, View from the nature trail
Castillo San Felipe del Marro and Santa María Magdalena de Pazzis Cemetery
Old San Juan, Santa María Magdalena de Pazzis Cemetery and San Juan bay, View from the fort
View of Santa María Magdalena de Pazzis Cemetery from the fort
View from the Castillo San Felipe del Marro
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Quick Facts and Tips

  • Make sure you have valid passports, visas and documents.
    • U.S. citizens: No visa required, need to carry a valid ID
    • For non-U.S. citizens: Need valid passports and visas
  • Best Time to Visit: December to June
    • High season: December to March
    • Affordable season: April to June
    • Hurricane season: August to October
  • Getting there:
    • By air: Fly into San Juan International Airport or Rafael Hernandez Airport
    • By cruise ship: The Port of San Juan (in Spanish: Puerto de San Juan)
  • Clothing: Weather is warm, so pack lightweight causal t-shirts, shorts, sundresses, tank tops, capris, skirts, swimsuits, hats, rain gears and light jackets for the cool evenings.
  • Operating Hours: 9am to 6pm, open year around except for Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.
  • Entrance Fee: $10, valid for both Castillo San Felipe del Morro and Castillo San Cristobal.
  • Best things to do
    • Take a stroll to the historical and cultural site Castillo San Felipe del Marro commonly known as El Morro.
    • Take a trail through the Paseo del Morro and feel fresh with the Atlantic Ocean breeze, beautiful views of San Juan bay, and massive stone walls of the fort. It is slippery when it rains and very windy so dress accordingly.
    • Walk through the nature trail behind El Morro for the panoramic view of the fort, San Juan bay, and Old San Juan.
    • Visit the largest Spanish fort Castillo San Cristobal and enjoy the beautiful view of Old San Juan.
Categories
National Parks

Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

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Grand Teton National park is known as Mountains of the Imagination. The park got its name from its tallest mountain in the Teton Range. The park is located in the northwestern part of Wyoming.  The park includes the major peaks of the 40 mile long Teton Range. Most of the northern sections of the park are in a valley known as Jackson Hole. The park is a renowned landing place for wildlife viewing, climbing and mountaineering, hiking, biking, skiing and snowshoeing, backcountry camping, fishing, boating, and floating etc.

These photos are from our one day trip to Grand Teton National park in late August 2012. The park looked amazing even though it was a cloudy gloomy day.

The Park Loop Road
Teton Village, Moose-Wilson Road
Teton Village, Moose-Wilson Road
View of Teton Range from Visitor Center parking lot
View of Teton Range from Visitor Center parking lot
Teton Glacier Turnout on a gloomy day Yellowstone
Jenny Lake on a gloomy day
Jenny Lake
Deer spotted near Jenny Lake
The Signal Mountain Summit on a cloudy day
Jackson Lake, The Teton Park Road
Oxbow Bend Turnout
Oxbow Bend Turnout
Snake River Overlook
Snake River Overlook
Schwabachers Landing Road
Glacier View Turnout
The Teton Range, Glacier View Turnout
Glacier View Turnout
Cathedral Group Turnout
Cabins near Blacktail Ponds Overlook
Inspiration Point, Cascade Canyon Trail
Inspiration Point, Cascade Canyon Trail
Hidden Falls, Cascade Canyon Trail
Cascade Canyon Trail
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Quick Facts and Tips

  • Best Time to Visit: April to October
    • Less crowd and cooler weather: April to May and September to October
    • Busiest months and warm weather: June to August
  • Airports
    • Closest, but expensive: Jackson Hole Airport, Yellowstone Airport and Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport. These airports give you good access to Grand Teton, Yellowstone and Glacier National Parks
      • Jackson Hole Airport: Just 10 mins drive to Moose Entrance of the Grand Teton National Park
      • Yellowstone Airport: A small airport and 2 hour drive to Flagg Ranch Information Center of Grand Teton National Park
      • Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport: 4 hour drive to Flagg Ranch Information Center. There are more frequent flights from West-Coast cities of US and more Expensive and fewer flights from East-Coast cities of US
    • Good Deals: Salt Lake City International Airport, 4 hour drive to Grand Teton National Park. This airport is convenient to visit both Grand Teton and Yellowstone national parks
  • Clothing
    • Summer is warm and hot, so pack lightweight casual short-sleeved t-shirts, shorts, tank tops, capri, hats, sunscreen, rain gears and comfortable walking shoes. Bring warm jackets for cooler mornings and evenings, even in the summer temperatures can drop to below freezing overnight
    • Spring and fall are cooler, so pack long sleeved t-shirts, comfortable pants, fleece jacket, warm jacket, gloves, rain gears and comfortable walking shoes
  • How many days
    • Auto Touring: One full day
    • Hiking and Camping: 2 to 5 days
  • What to Expect
    • Mountain Range, Reflection Lakes, Winding River, Wildflowers, Wildlife, Waterfalls
  • Be sure to check the Park official website for the current trail conditions and road closures before heading out.
  • Entrance Fee: $35 per vehicle or from $20 to $30 per person/ motorcycle. The pass is good for both Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks and good for seven days.
  • Start early in the morning during the busiest seasons (summer and fall) for best lighting, more elbow room, and most wildlife.
  • Take caution and follow the posted signs while driving through the park for pullovers to take photos or to view wildlife.
  • Keep some extra time for stopping for photos, sights, unexpected wildlife encounters, detours, and for unplanned delays.
  • Be aware of wildlife on the road or near the road. Viewing wildlife from inside the car is the the best and safest way.
  • Weather changes rapidly, so carry rain gear and extra clothing.
  • Take food and water so you can spend the day touring by covering as many as attraction vista points
  • Weak/no cell phone signals, highly recommend to have maps downloaded or printed.
  • There is a lot to capture, so keep your camera ready. Make sure that camera is fully charged and also keep backup battery and memory cards.
  • Places to Go
    • Moose, Jenny Lake, Inspiration Point, Hidden Falls, Signal Mountain Summit, Jackson Lake, Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve, String and Leigh Lakes, Colter Bay
  • Best things to do
    • Enjoy driving on the Teton Park Scenic Road and embrace yourself by stopping at gorgeous vista points along the drive.Drive short and sweet Jenny Lake Scenic road. The road opens up to the east shore of Jenny Lake and provides spectacular views of the peaks.Enjoy the panoramic views of the Teton range and Jackson Hole at the the Signal Mountain Summit by driving on the short uphill 5 miles Signal Mountain Road.Drive the winding Moose-Wilson road through forest and marsh habitats, and is home to various species of wildlife
    • Take a privately run shuttle boat service from Jenny Lake Visitor center to West shore Boat dock and hike the Cascade Canyon Trail to Inspiration Point. A 1.8 miles in and out hike to Inspiration Point via Hidden Falls features the spectacular views of Jenny Lake, Jackson Hole and a 100ft cascading waterfall.
    • Enjoy a wild and scenic rafting on the Snake River.
    • Explore the Colter Bay, Half Moon Bay, and other surrounding bays and islands by Boat tour/renting.
  • Nearby Attraction: Yellowstone National Park, just 70 miles away.