Chiang Mai, Thailand

Many travelers prefer Thailand’s pleasant northern capital over the hectic pace of life in Bangkok. Most of the tourist action happens within Chiang Mai’s Old City, where orange-robed monks from the many temples smile as they pass.

From numerous cultural festivals and sprawling night markets to mountain trekking and scores of beautiful temples, Chiang Mai attracts over a million visitors a year who just can’t wait to come back. Chiang Mai is certainly most popular among the top 10 places to visit in Thailand.

Pai, a riverside village only four hours north of Chiang Mai, is a bonus; you can visit both of them together as a “package.”

Although inflation is on the rise due to popularity (Bangkok is consistently one of the most visited cities in the world), a vacation in Thailand is still relatively inexpensive.

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Top 10 Things To Do Along Ireland’s Ring of Kerry

The Ring of Kerry is a circular drive that traverses about 111 miles around the Iveragh Peninsula in southwest Ireland, passing through Killarney National Park and a number of beautiful small towns while offering easy access to the breathtakingly wild coastline and soaring mountains. Along this often narrow, winding route, these top things to do are an ideal way to take advantage of this scenic landscape and all it has to offer.

Hike Killarney National Park

Killarney National Park is one of Ireland’s most magical destinations, filled with waterfalls, countless lakes, dramatic mountains, forests and even castles. Hiking is arguably your best best for getting an up close and personal look at all of this jaw-dropping scenery, like the short trek to Torc Waterfall which plunges 60 feet from the Torc Mountains via a river known as the Devil’s Punch Bowl. Another option is to take the walk that begins and ends at Muckross House. This fabulous route involves only a very minimal amount of climbing and you’ll get to see a number of historic buildings and formal gardens too.

Kayaking the Lakes of Killarney

Kayaking the Lakes of Killarney is an unforgettable experience. The beautiful lakes cover nearly a quarter of Killarney National Park, and you’ll have the chance to gaze up at sea eagles soaring overhead, check out fascinating limestone caves and ancient ruins. If you don’t want to head out on your own, you can join a tour led by an expert guide through outdoorsireland.com. You’ll start out at the grand 15th-century Ross Castle, paddling into Lough Lein, where you’ll discover wooded islands, limestone caves and local history as well as the ancient ruins of Innisfallen Abbey – once a leper colony, it now serves as the home of many of Ireland’s native red deer.

Cruise to Skellig Michael

The largest of the two Skellig Islands, Skellig Michael sits about eight miles off the Kerry coast from the small village of Portmagee. By taking a boat excursion, available from late spring through early fall, weather permitting, you’ll be able to marvel at some of the most jaw-dropping views in the country, and walk in the footsteps of monks that once lived here in an ancient monastery constructed between the 6th and 8th centuries. Its rugged natural beauty was spotlighted in the final scene of the latest “Star Wars” film, “The Force Awakens,” making it an especially popular place to visit.

Listen to Live Music and Take the Star Wars ‘Force Perfect Pint Challenge’ at the Bridge Bar

Speaking of Star Wars, as Portmagee is the closest village to Skellig Michael, when the cast and crew were filming, they made the Bridge Bar their home, with even Hamill himself pulling pints of Guinness behind the bar. Today, the Bridge Bar invites visitors to come chat with the owners, staff and locals about the making of the film and even “take the Force Perfect Pint challenge,” which means you’ll be pulling your own pint of Guinness in the same bar as Luke Skywalker. You can also enjoy the frequent live music, set dancing and award-winning cuisine, and stay overnight at the adjacent Moorings Hotel.

Walk Bray Head Loop and View Tetrapod Footprints on Valentia Island

Valentia Island is just a short jaunt off the Ring of Kerry, linked to the mainland by a bridge in Portmagee. It’s loaded with breathtaking natural beauty, including the barren, dramatic cliffs of Bray Head which provide extraordinary views of the coastline as well as lush and colorful vegetation. One of the highlights here is the Bray Head Loop walk, a 4.3-mile trek along the coast with a steady climb up to Bray Tower at the summit where you can take in impressive vistas of the Atlantic, The Skelligs, Portmagee and Puffin Island. Along the Tetrapod Trackway, you can view Tetrapod footprints that are said to be the most extensive of the four Devonian trackways on the planet, believed to be between 350 and 370 million years old.

Stand at the Edge of the Dramatic Kerry Cliffs

The Kerry Cliffs are part of a family-run attraction, situated just a short drive from Portmagee. This is one of the very best spots for viewing the rugged cliffs and the Skellig Rocks, in addition to being near Puffin Island, where some 10,000 Atlantic puffins reside. The site also includes a small gift shop and a coffee shop with indoor and outdoor seating.

Sample Heavenly Chocolate at the Skelligs Chocolate Factory

Skelligs Chocolate Factory is a small, family-run chocolate factory that sits right along the Ring of Kerry at the edge of St. Finian’s Bay. Here you can not only taste delicious samples, but you can watch the chocolate being made and take some back home too. It also offers a coffee shop that serves tea, coffee, and its very own tasty hot chocolate as well as fresh, homemade cakes and other desserts.

Take a Stroll Through Kenmare, The Ring of Kerry’s ‘Crown Jewel’

Many visitors to Ireland fall in love with Kenmare, with its pretty colorful gardens and stone cottages highlighed by flowers that overflow from window boxes. Often called the “crown jewel on the Ring of Kerry,” just strolling around can make for a lovely afternoon, walking to the pier and exploring the shoreline when the tide is out, where herons can often be seen searching for fish off the rocks. In this “haven of tranquility,” there’s lots of fantastic fare to dine on, golf courses, opportunities for hiking and horse riding too.

Check Out Staigue Fort

Ireland is home to many stone forts, a common element of the archaeological remains here, particularly in the west. Some stone forts are particularly impressive, like Staigue Fort in County Kerry. This large stone fort represents the best examples of non-ecclesiastical monumental architecture that’s managed to survive in Ireland from the pre-Norman period. Walk around the large circular wall with steps, ledges and formidable chambers and just imagine the homes that once stood inside the wall.

Walk the Spectacular Sands of Derrynane Beach

Derrynane Beach is a beautiful, long and sheltered white sandy beach with a natural harbor just two miles from the village of Caherdaniel. The Blue Flag Beach is staffed by a lifeguard during the warmer months of the year and is ideal for a refreshing dip. If the water isn’t warm enough for your liking, you can always enjoy a nice stroll across the unspoiled sands instead.

Top 10 Best-Kept Secrets in Iceland

Iceland is one of the most breathtaking countries on Earth, legendary for its hot springs, geysers and active volcanoes. You’ve probably heard about the Blue Lagoon and perhaps even the opportunity to dive between two continents, but what about the country’s lesser-known attractions? Here is a look at some of its best hidden attractions and more off-the-beaten-path places.

Glyufrafoss waterfall

Seljalandsfoss waterfall near the southern coast of Iceland is one of the country’s most famous falls and a popular stop on most tour itineraries. But most people miss Glyufrafoss, which is hidden near its more popular neighbor. By following the cliffs about two-thirds of a mile north, you’ll catch a glimpse of the glorious falls hiding behind the cliff face, and by entering through a narrow, six-and-a-half-foot opening, you can get inside the canyon where you’ll be able to stand right underneath the water. While you have to work a bit more to fully appreciate the beauty of Glyufrafoss, it’s well-worth the effort as you’re likely to be awed by its presence in relative solitude.

Fjadrargljufur Canyon

Driving along the Ring Road from Vík to Skaftafel, Fjadrargljufur (Feather River) Canyon, is one of the most picturesque spots in the region, but it’s often overlooked. While it doesn’t boast the size of some famous canyons, at about 330 feet deep and one-and-a-half miles wide,  its magnificent beauty lies in its various hues and shapes. By getting out on the trail that begins at the car park you can get a closer look and observe it from different angles, peering down at the brilliant turquoise water that sits within the canyon. It makes for the perfect break from a long drive on the Ring Road, and one that really should not be missed.

The Secret Lagoon

The Secret Lagoon, Secret Pool or Seljavallalaug, as its officially known, is one of the oldest pools in Iceland, but this hidden gem is missed by most as they’re too busy checking off all of the highlights on their “must-visit” list. Tucked within a narrow valley below Eyjafjalla Glacier, the protected 25-meter pool surrounded by spectacular scenery was built in 1923 by visionaries who wanted to give locals a place where they could learn to swim, during a time when few Icelanders knew how yet many made a living by fishing. The water stays at 98 to 99 degrees Fahrenheit all year long and is filled by a natural hot spring nearby. The pool is kept as natural as possible,  maintained mostly by volunteers and donations.

Bruarfoss Falls

The Bruarfoss Falls are trickier to find than most of Iceland’s best known waterfalls, but with water so vividly blue it’s hard to believe its real, this is a spot that really shouldn’t be missed. Absolutely magical, the falls can be found near the main road between Thingvellir National Park and Geysir along the Golden Circle route, but few other tourists are aware of Bruarfoss, so you can spend plenty of time gazing at the gorgeous color of the water without bumping elbows with others.

Hofsos pool

Arguably the most stunning swimming pool in all of Iceland, Hofsos sits on the Trollaskagi peninsula in the North of Iceland and was designed by the very same architect responsible for the Blue Lagoon. While it isn’t of Olympic size, it does offer some of the most dramatic views in Iceland as it was built into the hillside. As you swim in its warm geothermal waters,  it feels like you can continue paddling right into sea. Drangey, with its steep sea cliffs, can be seen rising majestically in the midst of Skagafjordur.  You’ll also be able to soak up an incredible variety of blue shades, including the dark blue of the distant mountains, the crystal blue color of the pool itself, the cerulean sea and bright blue skies on a clear day.

Kerid crater

This volcanic crater lake contains the most brilliant aquamarine waters that become even more vibrant the closer you get. Located some 10 miles north of Selfoss, it was formed about 6,500 years ago and is the northern end of a row of craters known as Tjarnarholar. The oval-shaped crater is about 900 feet long, 558 feet wide, and 180 feet deep. As it’s not primarily fed by rain and doesn’t drain, the crater lake acts as a window to the groundwater. The rim of the crater can be reached via a short, easy hike, and it’s also possible to walk completely around it and to get down to the water as well, so be sure to take the time to walk around, viewing the lake from all angles. While it’s worth a stop year round, in the summer months it’s especially impressive, surrounded by vivid green colors that make the blues of the water stand out even more.

The Abandoned DC3 Plane Crash

Unless you’re a Justin Bieber fan or a military history buff, odds are, you’ve never heard about the US Navy DC3 crash on Iceland’s black sand beach, Solheimasandur, that occurred back in 1973. The plane crashed on the south coast after the pilot thought it had run out of fuel. Everyone survived, but it turned out the pilot had only needed to flip a switch to engage the other fuel tank. For whatever reason, it was left abandoned, to sit rotting on the desolate, jet black dunes, looking like a scene out of some post-apocalyptic zombie movie. Today, the site is a favorite with photographers, filmmakers and videographers – one of Bieber’s music videos was shot here. It can be reached in about an hour on foot off Route 1, just past Skogafoss heading east. Look for the dirt access road to Sólheimajökull Glacier on the left and then drive east for a little over a mile until you see another dirt road turnoff with a gate on the right. The crash site is about a two-and-a-half-mile trek from there.

Westfjords

Despite the Westfjords being one of the most jaw-dropping areas of Iceland, just 3% of tourists make it out to what may be one of Iceland’s best kept secrets. As it’s quite isolated and largely uninhabited, the area has remained an unspoiled wilderness that is a must-visit for avid explorers. It’s home to Hornstrandir, an uninhabited peninsula and nature reserve that serves as a haven for the Arctic fox and a wide variety of bird life, including puffins, while the dramatic cliff known as Hornbjarg, is considered one of the nation’s greatest seafowl habitats. The highest peaks of its razor-backed ridge reaches more than 1,750 feet above sea level. Getting there requires a two-and-a-half-hour one-way boat ride from Ísafjörður, mostly through the Arctic, but its remoteness means that you probably won’t run into many other tourists, and if you can manage the journey, you’ll be treated to one of the most magnificent sights along Iceland’s coastline.

12 Tonar

12 Tonar is an independent label that’s released more than 50 albums by artists including Mr. Silla, Ólöf Arnalds, Rökkurró and Singapore Sling, as well as a record store and a local legend, established in 1998. Jam-packed with vinyl and CDs, including rare limited editions, customers can open any one of them to listen on a comfy velour couch while sipping free espresso, and discovering what Icelandic music is all about. Vinyl is located down the winding staircase in the basement, and the selection focuses on new Icelandic releases, with a tilt toward indie rock and classical, and you’ll find a sampling of used records as well. Although it’s a popular hang spot for local musicians, it’s also a welcoming place for tourists.

Ellioaardalur and the Arbaejarsafn Open Air Museum

At Ellioaardalur, visitors can enjoy taking a relaxing stroll among nature, watching salmon swim through the river and creatures roaming in the woods before reaching the Arbaejarsafn, the historical museum of the city of Reykjavik as well as an open-air museum and a regional museum. There are more than 20 buildings here, recreating a town to showcase what the architecture and life was like in the country centuries ago. While you might think such a place would be somewhere out in the countryside, it’s located right within the city limits.

Top 10 Things To Do in Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh is a historic and beautiful city in Scotland that’s packed with fun festivals, iconic attractions, unique museums, and opportunities to taste some delicious homegrown spirits. Families, couples, and solo travelers love exploring the highlights and soaking up the serene scenery of the gently rolling hills. Here are our top picks for things to do in Scotland’s capital city, Edinburgh.

Arthur’s Seat

One of the most well-known sites in the entire region is Arthur’s Seat. It’s located in Holyrood Park and offers impressive views of the surrounding landscape from this high point. It is an extinct volcano, and legend says that this is where Camelot was located and how the site got its name. You can hike the uphill trail to the top, but make sure to wear sturdy boots and bring plenty of water. There are no admission fees for this essential Edinburgh experience, and Holyrood Park is open 24 hours a day all throughout the year.

Calton Hill

Awesome panoramic views can also be taken in at Calton Hill, which is east of New Town and one of Scotland’s very first parks. The site is closely associated with the literary work of Robert Louis Stevenson, and iconic monuments and buildings are located here. The acropolis here is an unfinished monument that was designed to be a replica of Athens’ Parthenon. Nelson’s Monument is also here to remember the British admiral who led a victorious charge at Trafalgar. The climb to the top of the hill is pretty easy and particularly scenic at sunrise or sunset.

Scotch Whisky Experience

Scotland is well-known for its whiskey, and you can try some for yourself at the Scotch Whiskey Experience. There are various tour options that show guests how whiskey is made, what the production facilities look like, and include tastings. Fifty-minute Educational Tours are £13, 50-minute Silver Tours are £15.50 and include a tasting, 70-90-minute Gold Tours are £27 and include four regional single malts, and 90-minute Platinum Tours are £38 and offer an extended collection viewing. You can also take an in-depth Morning Masterclass or do the Taste of Scotland that includes whiskey and food pairings at the award-winning restaurant.

Edinburgh Gin Distillery

However, whiskey and scotch aren’t the only spirits that Edinburgh is known for. There’s also a great gin distillery in town that’s popular among tourists and locals. Celebrate the city’s gin-making heritage by taking a Gin Discovery Tour, Gin Connoisseur Tour, or Gin Making Tour. Favorite spirits made here include Seaside Gin, Cannonball Gin, and Christmas Gin, as well as specialty liquors made with raspberry, elderflower, rhubarb and ginger, pomegranate and rose, and plum and vanilla. The distillery has one location in the heart of the West End and another at the Biscuit Factory in Leith.

Royal Botanical Garden

Spanning dozens of acres, the Royal Botanical Garden is a lovely place to relax and slow down your pace of travel. There are thousands of exotic plans here in climate-controlled greenhouses and a particularly impressive rhododendron collection. The garden is open every day except for Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. There is no admission fee to see the gardens; however, glasshouse admission is £6.50 for adults and £5.50 for children. For refreshment, you can grab a meal, snack, or drink at the Gateway Restaurant, Terrace Café, or East Gate Coffee Bar.

Edinburgh Castle

The most recognizable landmark in this region is the Edinburgh Castle, which is also one of the most-visited attractions in the country. This has been the home to kings and queens and also served as a military prison. Top sights to see here include the Mons Meg gun, St. Margaret’s Chapel, the crown jewels, and the vaults under the Great Hall. The castle is typically open from 9:30am to 5pm, and admission for adults is £17 and for children is £10.20.

National Museum of Scotland

To learn about the city of Edinburgh and get a better overall understanding of the region, make sure to visit the National Museum of Scotland. There are tens of thousands of artifacts here that range from art to dinosaurs and world cultures. Families with children enjoy coming here because there is so much to see and learn about. Admission to the museum is free and donations are welcome. Opening times for the museum are daily from 10am to 5pm except for Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year’s Day.

Shopping on Victoria Street

Shop-a-holics will definitely enjoy taking a stroll down Victoria Street to browse the shops. There are lots of independent boutiques here that sell clothing and books, as well as lots of dining and drinking opportunities to refuel mid-day. Also on this charming street, you can see the inspiration for the Harry Potter books, buy Harry Potter memorabilia, and visit the famous jokes and novelties shop called Aha Ha Ha.

Camera Obscura and World of Illusions

For a unique museum experience, make a stop at the Camera Obscura and World of Illusions. It is along the Royal Mile and packed with puzzles and optical illusions that fun to experience for both adults and kids. The actual Camera Obscura is a large dome structure where you can see a projection of the landscape onto a viewing table. Favorite features include the vortex tunnel, mirror maze, a humorous tour guides. This is actually the oldest tourist attraction in the city and has been entertaining visitors since 1835. Standard admission prices are £15 for adults and £13 for students and seniors. The opening hours vary by season.

Compare Old Town and New Town

Old Town is a section of the city that is densely populated and has many traditional houses and narrow alleys. August is a fun time to visit Old Town because it’s when the Edinburgh Fringe and Festival takes place. The other part of town is called New Town, which has grand squares and wide avenues that date back to the 18^th century. This is a great area for designer shopping and learning about art and architecture. Take some time to explore and compare both sections to town to see which one appeals to you the most!

This Popular Hiking Trail in Colorado Leads to a Breathtaking Waterfall

Colorado is home to numerous hiking trails, but one trail in Glenwood Canyon has become one of the state’s most popular hiking spots. Known as Hanging Lake, this one-of-a-kind trail offers an uphill hike that results in an outstanding view. Full of crystal clear water and breathtaking waterfalls, the natural wonder of Hanging Lake will make the hike worth every minute. Hit the Hanging Lake trail the next time you’re in the Centennial State.This gorgeous part of Colorado is located off Highway I-70 near Glenwood Springs and Rifle, Colo. Now there are plenty of naturally unique places found in the state. However, Hanging Lake is home to a hanging plant community, something not typically found here. Due to its unique nature, Hanging Lake is designated as a National Natural Landmark.Now the hike up the lake doesn’t require any technical gear, but sturdy shoes are highly recommended. Keep in mind there is no potable water along the hike, so bring your own water bottle to the trailhead. As you hike up this one-mile trail, expect steep parts and rocky terrain. As you reach Hanging Lake, you’ll find handrails to guide you through the steepest part of the trail. Once you tackle this obstacle though, you’ll reach the boardwalk that circles this beautiful alpine lake.

Hanging Lake has become such a popular destination that there are rules to abide by while hiking and viewing the lake. This area is a unique ecosystem, so treat the area with respect. Swimming, fishing, and walking on the fallen trees in the lake are not allowed. Dogs are not allowed on the trail either. If you intend to hike this trail during summer, make sure to arrive early to find a parking spot, since parking fills up fast during warm and busy months.

Hanging Lake also is a beautiful place to explore during the winter months. Since this area regularly sees snow in the winter, expect a snow-packed and icy trail. Since conditions are a bit more treacherous, it may be a good idea to bring along boots, crampons and trekking poles. A winter ascent of Hanging Lake should be reserved for those in healthy physical shape and with proper gear.

World’s 10 Most Incredible Fall Lake Getaways

Lake Hallstatt, Hallstatt, Austria

Lake Hallstatt is magical and even more so when it’s surrounded by autumn’s vibrant colors. Located in Hallstatt, Austria, often ranked among the world’s most picturesque towns, it’s surrounded by soaring mountains and filled with elaborately decorated, colorful homes, looking as if it came straight from the pages of a fairytale. If you’re there in early to mid-fall, you can take a boat tour or rent a pedal boat to explore the lake’s nooks and crannies. Hiking or biking the path that circles the banks is a fabulous way to enjoy it too.

Jenny Lake, Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

Jenny Lake is one of Grand Teton National Park’s most beloved spots, and in the fall, you’ll get to enjoy splashes of yellow and orange, with a dash of red, against a backdrop of those towering jagged peaks. The crowds are few and weather is likely to be cool and crisp, an ideal time for hitching a ride on the Jenny Lake Boat to the base of Cascade Canyon to embark on a hike to Hidden Falls. This is a wonderful time for wildlife watching too, with the bull elk actively bugling to signal their dominance and attract females, an eerie sound that pierces through the air early in the evening. You may even get to see a sparring match between two male elk, a sight you’ll never forget.

Lake Placid, New York

The oak, maple, birch and beech trees burst into fiery red, vivid orange and yellow hues among the green of the deeply forested mountains that surround Lake Placid. The Adirondacks are legendary for their fall hues, and the lake itself is often ideal for taking out a canoe, kayak or paddleboat. There are numerous fall festivals too, like the Flaming Leaves Festival in early October which features lots of mouth-watering barbecue, lawn games, a horseshoe tournament, craft vendors, chairlift rides to the top of the 120-meter ski jump and more.

Dillon Lake, Colorado

Dillon Lake in the Colorado Rockies offers the opportunity for recreational activities galore, with 26 miles of shoreline and a backdrop of breathtaking mountain scenery that’s exploding with brilliant foliage in the fall. The lake is ideal for boating, sailing and picnicking along the shore, while Dillon Marina offers charter cruises as well as boat rentals and weekend sailing regattas, as the long as weather holds out, which it often does through mid-October.

Lake Tahoe, California

Renowned as one of the world’s most beautiful lakes, Tahoe sits across the California and Nevada border, with the north offering a more tranquil, sophisticated experience, while the south is known for its party-happy casino atmosphere. The biggest crowds arrive in summer and winter, so no matter which side you choose, you’re much more likely to enjoy it without bumping elbows with countless other visitors. Enjoy fishing, hiking, mountain biking and even scenic cruises. There are a number of tours on Emerald Bay, including daytime trips and sunset dinner cruises as well. Along the way, be sure to keep watch for the bald eagles that can be spotted perched in the trees along the shoreline.

Lake Bled, Slovenia

The sight of the stunning white Church of the Assumption, situated on a tiny islet in the midst of sapphire-blue Lake Bled, draws visitors to Slovenia all year round, but in the fall, when golden foliage is set against the snow-capped Karavanke Alps, the scene is even more magical. Take in the spectacular display from medieval Bled Castle, which enjoys dramatic lake views and also hosts a number of hiking trails along the shore.

Loch Lomond, Scotland

Loch Lomond is the largest fresh water body of water in Great Britain by surface area and autumn is a wonderful time to be here with the rich colors and the quality of light. “The Queen of the Scottish Lakes,” as author Walter Scott called it, is filled with trout salmon and whitefish, making it ideal for fishing. Visitors can also enjoy hiking, biking, boating and wildlife viewing – and, even the chance to soak up the romance of a Scottish castle: Balloch Castle sits in a 200-acre park and provides impressive views over the water as well as featuring walled gardens, nature trails and guided walks.

Lake Como

One of Italy’s most stunning lakes, with its blue waters surrounded by manicured gardens, grand estates, emerald forests and snow-capped peaks in the distance, Lake Como has inspired a host of visitors, including George Clooney and Lord Byron. This magnificent region is filled with charming little villages that sit along its shores, and you’ll be able to enjoy the beautiful gold and orange hues of fall as well.

Lake District, England

England’s Lake District is famous for its striking scenic beauty, and with the autumn light, it becomes even more awe-inspiring. There isn’t just one lake, but many, and they’re surrounded by gold and ruby covered hills that are ideal for hiking. Cumbria hosts beautiful woodland areas like Grizedale Forest Park, with green pines and copper beech trees that frame mountain vistas, as well as a number of cozy pubs for popping into and enjoy a glass of cider or local ale. While the weather is notoriously unpredictable, meaning, it’s not at all unusual to experience all four seasons in a single day, the showers and passing clouds only serve to emphasize the grandeur of the scenery.

Lake Santeetlah, North Carolina

Lake Santeetlah boasts 76 miles of mostly protected shoreline as part of the national forest, set in the tranquil, colorful forest against a backdrop of the Great Smoky Mountains. Rent a pontoon boat, motor boat or kayak and get out and explore. This is also the ideal season for biking and hiking, and a scenic drive among the fall foliage is a must. Afterwards, you may want to head to the
lakeside bar and dock at Blue Waters Mountain Lodge, a great place for a nightcap after a day of play.

The Best Places to Visit in Australia

Destinations in Australia

Port Campbell National Park

This world famous park is a definite highlight, home to wind and wave-sculpted rock formations like London Bridge, the Arch and the Twelve Apostles. Helicopter tours are available for a bird’s-eye view, or you can join a boat tour to marvel at the magnificent limestone stacks from the water. Some of the park’s other standout coastal features include the eerie beach and maritime history of Loch Ard Gorge, the 230-foot-tall cliffs of Gibson Steps and the tranquil Bay of Islands. You can also savor the region’s bounty along the 12 Apostles Gourmet Trail, including delectable chocolates, regional cheeses, fine wines, ice cream and fresh berries.

The Whitsundays and the Great Barrier Reef

The Whitsundays, made up of 74 Island Wonders along the tropical coast of Queensland in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, is internationally renowned for snorkeling and diving, with an astonishing array of marine life, including more than 1,600 species of tropical fish, turtles, sharks, dolphins, rays and giant clams. One of the best ways to experience this beautiful archipelago is to take a scenic flight over, or go on a sailing excursion, where you can snorkel or dive all day, sailing from island to island and experiencing a variety of picture-perfect stretches of sand. The islands are dotted with secluded beaches, and Whitehaven Beach is consistently ranked in the world’s top 10 beaches, with its white silica sand and striking azure waters.

Adelaide

Adelaide, the country’s fifth largest city, has become an increasingly popular destination in recent years, and was the only city in Australia to make the New York Times’ list of best places to visit in 2015. Located on a plain between rolling hills and the Gulf St. Vincent, and bordered by many of Australia’s famous wine regions, you’ll find lots to do while you’re here. It’s a favorite with foodies, who flock to its nearly 150-year-old Central Market which boasts more than 80 stalls, cafes and restaurants that all showcase fresh, local produce.  In the city itself, there are over 100 pubs, lots of hip bars and watering holes, along with highly acclaimed fine dining eateries that exist right alongside food trucks. You’ll also appreciate the mix of modern and historic architecture, many of which sit alongside the banks of Elder Park next to the famous Adelaide Festival Center which hosts world-class theater and musical performances. All of that, and beach lovers will discover some of the country’s best-kept secrets, like Henley Beach, with its pristine sands and lovely old wooden jetty.

Sydney

Visiting Sydney is really an essential part of any vacation in Australia. The country’s largest city offers an ideal mix of iconic landmarks, a picturesque harbor, gorgeous botanic gardens, beautiful beaches and impressive architecture. Sydney is often represented by its iconic symbol, the Sydney Opera House, with its white-tiled sails along the harbor at Bennelong Point. The UNESCO World Heritage Site not only offers opera performances, but it frequently hosts all types of concerts and plays, and visitors can explore it by taking a guided backstage tour or dining in one of its restaurants. It’s also home to the world famous Bondi Beach, dubbed one of the country’s Top 10 beaches, renowned for its pristine sands, clean waters and fantastic people watching. Other highlights include climbing another iconic landmark, the Sydney Harbour Bridge, and visiting the city’s wealth of museums and galleries.

Hobart

Tasmania, Australia’s smallest state, packs a punch when it comes to offering the ultimate vacation destination. You could easily spend all of your time on this alluring island known for having some of the cleanest air in the world along with dramatic mountains and stunning beaches. Its capital city of Hobart, is the country’s second oldest city after Sydney, but offers a more intimate experience with a population of around a quarter-million residents. Not only is it buzzing with art and nurturing an exciting foodie scene, but it boasts a number of fine examples of Victorian and Georgian architecture. Salamanca Place features a terrace of warehouses dating back to its whaling days in the early 19^th century, which have been transformed into restaurants, galleries, craft shops and offices. It also houses the famous Salamanca Market that attracts thousands every Saturday all year long with its more than 300 stalls filled with fresh fruit and vegetables, hot baked spuds and baked goods as well as buskers strumming folk songs on the guitar, singing the blues or stroking a beautiful harp.

Darwin

The tropical city of Darwin hugs the coastline of the Northern Territory and has long been the most international of Australia’s major cities with its close proximity to other countries in the Indian Ocean. Closer to Bali than Bondi, this vibrant, multicultural destination offers a gateway to natural icons like the Tiwi Islands, Litchfield, Adelaide River, the Top End and the Katherine Region. The Waterfront precinct, in the heart of the city, features a swimming lagoon and wave pool that’s surrounded by laid-back bars, cafes, shops and seafood eateries. While Mitchell Street, lined with pubs and bars, offers a pumping nightlife scene. In the middle of Darwin at Crocosaurus Cove, you can climb into a Perspex tube known as the “Cage of Death” and take a dip into the crocodile enclosure where you just might get an eye-to-eye enclosure with one of the monstrous-looking creatures.

Broome

Broome, a perpetually sunny town located in Western Australia’s Kimberley Region, known as one of the most unique wilderness destinations in the country, offers the chance to enjoy nearly endless white sands and turquoise seas, and even ride a camel into the sunset on Cable Beach. In the heart of the region, are vast wildlife sanctuaries, stunning gorges and thundering waterfalls. In the town of Broome itself, you can view indigenous art at Short Street Gallery, hosting extensive collections that highlight the varied and distinct styles of the different Aboriginal tribal groups and go pearl shopping in Chinatown, home to the world’s finest pearl showrooms, for a classic souvenir. Visitors can also tour restored luggers, learn about pearling history, watch a diving demo and even sample pearl meat.

Cairns

This small, pretty coastal city that enjoys a tropical climate and easy going atmosphere, is an adventure sports enthusiast’s paradise with its close proximity to the mountains, the rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef. The city itself is home to The Pier marketplace with a wealth of cafes, shops and expanding multi-cultural art scene, and at the Cairns Wildlife Dome, visitors enjoy an all-weather wildlife exhibit that includes a replicated rainforest environment with birds like cockatoos, lorikeets and parrots freely flying through as well as animals like kookaburras, rainforest wallabies, koalas, crocodiles, pythons, turtles and more. Swim or soak up the sunshine at the Esplanade Lagoon, take one of the nearly 200 hiking treks in the surrounding mountains, or, if you’re especially adventurous, this is Australia’s capital of Bungy Jumping, with the opportunity to jump from a 164-foot-high tower in the canopies of the rainforest, dipping your head into the chilly stream at the bottom.

Melbourne

Australia’s second most populous city after Sydney is the capital of the state of Victoria, sitting near the southeastern top of the country along Port Phillip Bay. Often referred to as its cultural capital, Melbourne is a mecca for fine food and shopping. Its theaters, galleries, shops and restaurants offer a distinctly European feel. Shoppers flock to the elegant Royal Arcade on Bourke Street, as well as Chapel Street and the Melbourne Central Shopping Center. The city is home to many thriving marketplaces, including Queen Victoria Market, which has been selling produce, clothes and crafts for more than a century. A foodie paradise, it also boasts an impressive culinary mash-up of Eurasian street food along with an abundance of fancy food trucks. While there are still plenty of traditional fast foods to be found, they also offer gourmet fare like burgers made from prime waygu beef.

Barossa Valley

A must-visit for wine lovers, the Barossa Valley is Australia’s wine country, recently named as one of the top ten best wine travel destinations by Wine Spectator Magazine. Located in South Australia about 40 miles northeast of Adelaide’s city center, Barossa Valley is often referred to as a region of indulgence with its award-winning local wines and outstanding local cuisine. There are more than 80 cellar doors and about 70 wineries, with everything from boutique wineries to big name best sellers, each with its own specialties. While that may sound pretty overwhelming, the good news is that the valley has a lot of winery clusters, like Seppeltsfield Road with 16 wineries as well as a small but distinguished group on Krondorf Road, including Grant Burge, Charles Melton, Rockford and St. Hallet. Henschke’s tiny cellar door in the Eden Valley often has some gems open for tasting too. Visitors can enjoy mingling with the locals at Barossa Farmers’ Market, held in the Vintners’ Sheds near Angaston with its more than 30 stalls to wander through.

Nambung National Park

Located about 125 miles northwest of Perth, Nambung National Park is home to one of Australia’s most unique landscapes: the Pinnacles Desert. The vast, 17,487-hectares area provides a natural habitat for an extensive array of native animals and bird life in addition to boasting the incredible natural limestone spires that rise from the golden sands of the desert, some standing as high as 16 ½ feet high, looking as if they were a scene from another planet. They were formed some 25,000 to 30,000 years ago after the sea receded and left deposits of sea shells, over time, coastal winds removed the surrounding sand, leaving the pillars exposed to the elements. Emus, cockatoos and gray kangaroos can also been seen in the park, while at nearby Hangover Bay, bottlenose dolphins are often spotted.

Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park

Deep in the heart of red rock country in the Central Australian desert, the very remote Uluru-Kata Tjuṯa National Park is home to world-famous Uluru Rock, one of the most photographed natural wonders in all of Australia. The striking red monolith towers over the landscape at 1,141 feet, forming the centerpiece of the park, and bears a number of inscriptions made by ancestral indigenous peoples. The park also showcases fiery hued dome-shaped rocks known as Kata Tjuta. Just before sunset, visitors gather to watch the legendary rock and Kata Tjuta as they’re transformed in the changing light. Tours led by aboriginal guides and rangers are available, providing an inside look at these sacred structures.

Fraser Island

The place to go for off-road lovers, Fraser Island is the world’s largest sand island and a mecca for four-wheel enthusiasts. Created over hundreds of thousands of years from sand drifting off the mainland’s east coast, it’s the only known place where rainforest grows on sand. Accessible via a 40-minute ferry ride off Queensland’s coast, the island boasts nearly 75 miles of pristine beaches, and visitors can hire a four-wheel drive vehicle to explore its fresh water lakes, like Lake McKenzie which is perched high in the sand dunes, as well as ancient rainforests, colored sands and massive sand blows. The island is also home to all sorts of interesting birds and wildlife, including dingoes, reputed to be some of the last remaining pure dingoes in Eastern Australia, while its offshore waters are teeming with dolphins, manta rays, dugong, sharks and migrating humpback whales.

Freycinet National Park

Freycinet Nataional Park, located on the island of Tasmania, one of Australia’s top vacation destinations, sits on the wildly rugged Freycinent Peninsula, jutting out into the sea along the east coast. Surrounded by cerulean bays and pristine white sand beaches with a backdrop of dramatic pink granite peaks of the Hazards Range, it’s an ideal place for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers. Take the short, scrambling trek to Wineglass Bay for one of Tasmania’s most photographed views, or if you’re looking for something more lengthy, continue from the Wineglass Bay lookout down to the perfectly curved beach and back to the park entrance through the Hazards Range for incredible views of Great Oyster Bay and the stunning coastline. Along the way, keep an eye out for the white-bellied sea eagles that often glide overhead, and the Australasian gannet that dives for his dinner in the sea.

 

Best Islands in the Bahamas to Visit

Destinations in Caribbean

There are 700 islands that make up the Bahamas, which extend 760 miles from the coast of Florida nearly all the way to Haiti. Of course, the majority of those islands are uninhabited, but those who want to visit still have practically an overwhelming number of destinations to choose from. If you’re hoping to truly get away from it all, don’t head to the most popular isles like Grand Bahama, consider one of these instead.

The Abacos

The Abacos is situated in the Northern Bahamas, made up of its own 120-mile-long island chain, with Great Abaco Island and Little Abaco serving as the “mainland,” and a string of barrier islands separating them from the Atlantic. Known as the most accessible of the Out Islands, visitors can enjoy white and pink sandy beaches as well as the four national parks, where parrots, orchids and all types of exotic marine life can be spotted. Seeing the famous swimming island pigs makes a visit to this archipelago and especially unforgettable experience. One of the most popular attractions in this remote region, you can see them adorably lounging on the beach, soaking up the Bahamian sun and treading through the clear azure waters.. There are also villages that seem locked in another time, turquoise flats, spectacular coral reefs, untouched forests and uninhabited cays, all waiting to be explored.

Cat Island

Cat Island is one of the least frequented and the most beautiful of all the Bahamas out-islands. While it offers outstanding diving off its south shore, this remote island has hardly been touched by tourism, making it ideal for those seeking the ultimate in peace, and unchartered territory. Every inch is perfection, from the weather to the sand, and it even boasts an eight-mile stretch of pink sandy beach. It’s also managed to retain its authentic island flavor, with ripsaw music and Obeah religious practices still surviving. A clear lake known as “Boiling Hole,” is not only home to a legendary sea monster due to tidal conditions that cause “mysterious” burps and bubbles, it’s an excellent place to watch for baby sharks, rays and all sorts of birds that nest along the mangroves that surround it. The island is home to a number of historic landmarks too, including  churches, plantation ruins and old buildings, while Griffin Bat Cave was once a hideout for slaves.

Andros

The largest of the Bahama islands, Andros is also the least populated, offering the chance to own a piece of your own island without the high price tag.  Here, locals make waterproof straw baskets, batik and other crafts, and visitors will also find mesmerizing blue holes, excellent bonefishing and diving. The island is home to the world’s oldest dive shop, the second largest coral reef in the Western hemisphere, and is covered with vast areas of wetlands that create channels perfect for bonefishing. Many visitors come to experience this “Bonefishing Capital of the World,” by staying at Bair’s Lodge, a plantation style lodge situated between Deep and Middle Creek on the south end of the island offering a beachfront paradise with a picture-perfect white sand beach, swaying palms, fire pit and access to a flats skiff. The tidal paths found on this part of Andros provides water pathways to access the famous west side while offering protection from the winds, and creating a fertile, bait-rich environment that bonefish prefer.

Eleuthera

This long and slender island is the most historic of the Out Islands, with the first English settlers arriving back in 1648.  Much of the architecture and way of life was influenced by these British Loyalists. Here you will find a number of well-developed resorts, massive coral reefs that create breathtaking backdrops, and miles and miles of beautiful beach that can often be enjoyed all to yourself, with many stretches of sand relatively deserted thanks to their secluded locales. Although Eleuthera is the fourth most populated island in The Bahamas, home to about 11,000, most who live here either fish for bounty or farm the rolling acres of pineapple plantations. The bakeries lure visitors in with their mouth-watering pineapple tarts from the island’s signature crop – Henry Sands homemade bread even won him an invitation to Princess Di’s wedding.

Long Island

This 80-mile-long island is home to one of the oldest dive operations in the Bahamas. It hosts multiple shallow and deep dive sites, but is most well known for Dean’s Blue Hole, the deepest recorded blue hole in the archipelago at over 600 feet. Friendly turtles and tiny sea horses come to the warm, saltwater pool for a break from the ocean currents, while the coral caves and sand banks on the side of the entrance harbor all types of tropical reef life, from colorful tropical fish to groupers and snappers. The western shoreline of  Long Island has soft, sandy beaches edged with rich green mangroves. With the Atlantic to the east, the island is also a fishing, sailing, and yachting paradise.

Harbour Island

Harbour Island, part of Eleuthera, which is actually a chain of islands itself, seems as if it made specifically for romance, with the beaches on the three-mile-long isle filled with tiny foraminifera, red-shelled creatures that give the sand its rosy hue. Its hub, Dunmore Town, was once the capital of the Bahamas, and it still retains picturesque Georgian architecture, marked by pastel-hued buildings, white picket fences and bougainvillea-draped door frames. The island is home to less than 2,000, and only a small number of tourists visit at any given time, providing a laid-back atmosphere that ensures a peaceful escape from the chaos of day-to-day life.

Crooked Island

Remote and unspoiled Crooked Island has little in the way of tourist facilities, but it does boast gorgeous beaches, bat caves and flamingos, and also serves as a turtle nesting spot. One of the four islands that form an atoll hugging the striking shallow waters of the Bight of Acklins, it hasn’t much changed since Columbus sailed down the leeward side through the narrow Crooked Island Passage. There are miles of untouched, white powdery sands, coral gardens, limestone caves and cliffs, remnants of slave and cotton plantations, ancient churches, fortifications and mangrove-lined waterways.

Canada’s 10 Most Beautiful National Parks to Visit

Destinations in Canada

Banff National Park, Alberta

Canada’s first national park opened back in 1885, and it still overwhelms visitors with its jaw-dropping beauty today. Tucked away in a valley surrounded by jewel-colored lakes, hot springs, canyons and dramatic mountain ranges, there are few places that could be considered more stunning. Moraine Lake may be its most spectacular highlight of all. Glacially fed, it sits within the heart of the park at an elevation of about 6,000 feet, and in early summer the water levels rise and cast a striking shade of blue that you’ll never forget. This is truly an outdoor lover’s paradise, with just a few of the available adventures here including whitewater rafting on the Kicking Horse River, sky diving over the Rockies, hiking, caving, fishing, biking, zip lining and climbing. If you’d rather participate in a more gentle pursuit, head up the Banff Gondola and you’ll get a bird’s eye view of magnificent Lake Louise.

Gros Morne National Park, Newfoundland

This UNESCO World Heritage Site on the west side of Newfoundland stretches across almost 700 square miles as part of the Long Range Mountains. It offers some of the most magnificent natural beauty on the planet. Still a work in progress, after over a half-billion years nature continues to shape this landscape of freshwater fjords, striking cliffs, lush forests and picturesque shorelines. The Tablelands, a mountain of flat-topped rock typically found far below the Earth’s surface, deep in the mantle, is particularly jaw-dropping. With some 5,000 moose calling the park home, odds are you’ll catch at least a glimpse of one of the majestic creatures, and you’ll have the chance to kayak, canoe, fish, hike or camp too.

Nahanni National Park, Northwest Territories

Nahanni National Park sits across 7,000 acres, made up of true remote wilderness along the Continental Divide separating the Yukon and Northwest Territories. An adventurer’s haven, paddlers come to explore the heart of the park, while climbers head to the Cirque of the Unclimbables and hikers trek over lush meadows, karst and mountains to view the thundering waterfalls, limestone caves and practically endless number of rugged canyons. Its centerpiece is the South Nahanni river, while wildlife like grizzlies, wolves, caribou, eagles, sheep and mountain goats, all call it home. There are no public roads, so visitors must access the park via air or hike in; most do so by chartered float plane.

Torngat Mountains National Park, Newfoundland and Labrador

Newfoundland and Labrador’s newest national park is made up of 3,745 square miles of unspoiled wilderness that stretches from Saglek Fjord to the northern tip of Labrador, and west from the Atlantic seacoast to the Quebec border. Another great park for the very adventurous, Torngat isn’t easy to get to. There are no roads or even campgrounds, which means you’ll need to hire a charter, join a special tour or utilize the services of Torngat Mountains Base Camp. But once in this remote region, you’ll not only be able to spot animals like polar bears, gaze up at some of the highest peaks in Eastern Canada and maybe the colorful lights of the aurora borealis, but you’ll be able to immerse yourself in Inuit culture. This is the only park in the world where the entire staff is Inuit, providing the rare opportunity to learn about a culture you probably know little about.

Cape Breton Highlands National Park, Nova Scotia

Cape Breton offers an especially idyllic summer escape with its alluring natural beauty, picture-postcard beaches, live traditional Celtic music every night and the chance to enjoy watching whales, dolphins, seals, puffins, bald eagles and more. Its scenic 185-mile drive along the Cabot Trail is one of the most stunning stretches of road, winding by ocean-side cliffs. And, as you hug that world famous coastline, you’ll wind through Cape Breton Highlands National Park, home to lush, forested river canyons that carve into the ancient plateau that makes up 90 percent of the park. There are miles and miles of hiking trails, like Middle Head Trail, once used used as a carriage road, now offering awe-inspiring Atlantic Ocean views. You might even catch a minke or pilot whale breaking waves and you’ll never be far from a steaming plate of local lobster fresh from the frigid ocean waters.

Prince Albert National Park

Prince Albert National Park, located in the Saskatchewan prairie, is Canada’s most popular national park of all. The mostly flat landscape features some rolling hills of spruce, pine, aspen, and birch shelter pockets of fescue and sedge meadows. In the winter, it attracts cross-country skiers from all corners of the nation, and in the summer, countless visitors come to enjoy water skiing and wakeboarding. It’s particularly notable for a bison herd that roams along its southwestern border, the only free-range herd of wild plains bison in the country that still occupies its ancestral territory. In the summer, visitors can tag along with the Canadian cowboys who round up the park’s buffalo.

Pacific Rim National Park, Vancouver Island, BC

Pacific Rim National Park, stretched along the southwestern coast of Vancouver Island, is made up of three distinct units, Long Beach, the West Coast Trail and Broken Group Islands, which protect the rugged shoreline and coastal forests. Each offers a unique experience, with those who want to hike often heading to the historic 47-mile route that features sandstone cliffs, waterfalls and beaches. Many visitors also enjoy Long Beach, a 10-mile strip of undeveloped coastline set against a backdrop of lush rain forest and distant mountains. As one of the country’s most visited tourist attractions, it draws a mix of surfers, beachcombers and marine life enthusiasts.

Waterton Lakes National Park

Waterton Lakes, connected to Glacier National Park in Montana, may be the country’s smallest national park, but it’s surely one of its most stunning. This is the only park in the world that’s a US-Canada peace park, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a biosphere reserve, sitting at a point where the plains meet the mountains with a distinct ecosystem that supports more biodiversity than anywhere in the Rockies. If you go in the fall, you’ll enjoy an especially tranquil time that’s perfect for peaceful solitude. The days are still long and often unseasonably warm, while the landscape takes on magnificent new hues as it transitions into the season. Look forward to fishing on serene lakes and hiking peaceful trails as well as enjoying plenty of wildlife watching opportunities.

Kluane National Park, Yukon

Kluane is home to more than 2,000 glaciers, Canada’s largest ice fields, most diverse grizzly bear population, and its highest mountain peak, the 20,ooo-foot-high Mount Logan. To really experience it, you need to hike or fly. Take in the 8,500 square miles of wilderness by helicopter or prop plane for a bird’s-eye view of the icy rivers, mountains, bears ,caribou and Dall sheep. There are over 100 species of birds too, including the rock ptarmigan and the golden and bald eagle. In the Front Ranges closer to Haines Junction, Alaska, visitors can enjoy more casual strolls as well as challenging day hikes and extended wilderness backpacking trips.  Kathleen Lake Campground makes a great base  for enjoy access to a variety of short treks, interpretive programs, fishing and boating.

Fundy National Park, New Brunswick

New Brunswick’s first national park was created in 1948 and offers more than 75 miles of hiking trails that wind through mountains, lush forest and valleys, passing cascading falls and crystal clear streams. Rent a canoe or kayak and explore beautiful Bennett Lake, or hike up to the highest tides in the world at Hopewell Rocks. You can even take a dip in the cool water and snorkel with the Bay of Fundy Atlantic Salmon. There are three campgrounds for staying overnight, along with a heated saltwater pool that’s ideal for relaxing after a day of hiking, paddling or other outdoor pursuits. Just outside of the park, visit the fishing village of Alma, for fantastic fresh seafood.

The 10 Best National Parks in the USA

Destinations in United States

Explore the great outdoors at one of America’s can’t-miss national parks.
If you’re dreaming of an outdoor vacation filled with gushing geysers, animal encounters, towering rock formations and more, odds are you’ll enjoy exploring a national park. But with so many parks scattered throughout the U.S., finding the locale that’s best for your next adventure can seem daunting. That’s where U.S. News can help. Considering factors like the uniqueness of sights, historical significance and park accessibility, we determined which of the country’s 59 national parks qualify as the Best National Parks in the USA. No matter which destination you choose, you’ll find picturesque landscapes and activities suitable for all ages and interests, such as hiking, whitewater rafting and junior ranger programs.1. Grand Teton National Park
An area once inhabited by Native Americans and early American explorers, Wyoming’s Grand Teton National Park now attracts vacationers interested in hiking and water sports. More than 200 trails are located inside the park, including several scenic waterfront paths. Plus, Jackson and Jenny lakes can be used for motorized boating. Eight additional lakes are available for activities like canoeing and paddleboarding. Animals are also plentiful here; travelers are bound to spot bison, moose, black bears and more roaming throughout the park. Winter sports enthusiasts, meanwhile, will discover prime conditions for cross-country skiing, and guided snowshoe hikes are offered between late December and mid-March.2. Great Smoky Mountains National Park
More than 11 million travelers come to Great Smoky Mountains National Park each year, and it’s easy to see why. Straddling the Tennessee-North Carolina border, this national park is known for its abundant wildlife, its historic Southern Appalachian architecture and its breathtaking panoramas. Hiking is one of the park’s most popular activities, thanks in part to its multitude of options. Families can traverse kid-friendly paths like Porters Creek Trail and the Kephart Prong Trail, while experienced hikers will enjoy trekking to Alum Cave Bluffs, Charlies Bunion and Rainbow Falls. Dogs are even permitted on two walking paths: the Gatlinburg Trail and the Oconaluftee River Trail.3. Grand Canyon National Park
A UNESCO World Heritage site worthy of any vacationer’s bucket list, Grand Canyon National Park is a must-see. Nearly 6 million visitors make an annual pilgrimage to check out this sprawling natural wonder, which spans 277 miles of semi-arid Arizona desert. You’ll have several hiking paths to choose from, but for some of the area’s best vistas, travel the South Rim’s Bright Angel and Rim trails. Or, explore some paths (like the Bright Angel Trail) by mule. You can also raft down the Colorado River, hop aboard the historic Grand Canyon Railway or shop for local artwork and authentic Native American souvenirs at Grand Canyon Village. 4. Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park
Hawai’I Volcanoes National Park is undoubtedly one of the National Park Service’s most unique sites. Situated in Hilo, Hawaii, on the Big Island, this park offers a picturesque setting for hiking, camping, scenic drives and biking. You’ll have access to two of the world’s most active volcanoes here, which can be seen during guided ranger walks. Junior ranger programs are also available. If you’d rather check out the park without a guide and only have time to visit one volcano, make sure it’s Kilauea; the volcano can be seen by traveling along Crater Rim Drive and Chain of Craters Road.5. Yellowstone National Park
The world’s first national park is also one of its most impressive. Spread across Idaho, Montana and Wyoming, Yellowstone National Park is home to verdant forests, idyllic lakes, majestic canyons and, of course, world-renowned geysers and hot springs. Can’t-miss sights include Old Faithful, the Grand Prismatic Spring and Mammoth Hot Springs, but don’t forget to carve out ample time to hike throughout the park’s 2.2 million-plus acres. Pathways are available by all of Yellowstone’s popular natural wonders, but for some of the area’s best views, hike the South Rim Trail or Uncle Tom’s Trail at the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.6. Sequoia National Park
As its name implies, Sequoia National Park is named for its iconic sequoia trees. Located about 205 miles north of Los Angeles, this park features roughly 40 giant sequoia groves, the most notable of which is Giant Forest, where the park’s largest living sequoia – the General Sherman Tree – and multiple hiking trails reside. But there’s more to do at Sequoia National Park than hike and gaze at towering redwoods. Travelers can go rock climbing at Moro Rock, join a guided horseback ride or take a tour of Crystal Cave, among other activities.7. Rocky Mountain National Park
Though you’ll be tempted to focus all your energy on hiking some of Rocky Mountain National Park’s 355 miles of trails, save some time for this Colorado park’s unique pursuits. History buffs can see what life was like 100 years ago at the Holzwarth Historic Site, while animal lovers will enjoy sitting in on ranger talks about bears, beavers and bighorn sheep. If you want more action, time your visit during the winter months, when you can sled and cross-country ski. But remember, winter sports equipment is not available on-site, so bring your own gear or rent it from shops situated in Estes Park and Grand Lake.8. Yosemite National Park
One of America’s most popular national parks is Yosemite National Park in California’s Sierra Nevada mountains. Granted protection by the U.S. government in 1864, Yosemite and its natural wonders woo 5 million-plus visitors annually. Waterfalls are the main reason to visit, which are best viewed in spring. You’ll also discover massive rock formations like Sentinel Rock and El Capitan, as well as giant sequoia trees and the Crane Flat meadow. Stunning vistas are hard to miss inside the park, but for some of Yosemite’s best panoramas, hike to Half Dome or drive to Glacier Point.9. Mount Rainier National Park
The main draw of Washington’s Mount Rainier National Park is its active volcano (which you can climb for a fee, weather permitting), but you’ll find more than just its namesake natural wonder here. The park is a winter haven for snow bunnies who want to ski, snowboard, ride snowmobiles or snowshoe. You can also participate in an array of activities once summertime rolls around, including fly-fishing, canoeing and cycling. Plus, Mount Rainier National Park features more than 260 miles of hiking trails.10. Zion National Park
Southwest Utah’s Zion National Park appeals to fitness buffs, nature lovers and amateur archaeologists. Active travelers can break a sweat during a canyoneering trip in Orderville Canyon or a hike along Weeping Rock’s Hidden Canyon Trail, while those with kids in tow can traverse one of Zion Canyon’s less strenuous paths, such as Pa’rus Trail and the Archaeology Trail. Birdwatchers will be happy to learn the park boasts more than 200 kinds of birds, including threatened and endangered species like the Mexican spotted owl and the California condor. And tucked within Zion’s cream-, pink- and red-colored sandstone cliffs, visitors will discover archaeological sites with rock paintings and carvings, some of which date back to 7,000 B.C.