Conkle’s Hollow Rim Trail

26 February 201614 September 2024

Conkle’s Hollow State Nature Preserve is a part of the Hocking Hills State Park system.

There are two trails within the nature preserve and I began my hiking adventure with the rim trail which is 2.5 miles long and promises some spectacular views.

A set of stairs leads to the start of the trail taking me along the top of the gorge.

Conkle Hollow’s Rim Trail

At the beginning of the trail there is a steep climb so a set of chains have been installed for hikers who may need some assistance to make it up the hill.

Colorful rock formations hide behind the trees.

Looking down into the gorge from the rim trail, it is no surprise that some believe this to be the deepest gorge in the state of Ohio.

Gnarly tree roots occasionally appear along the trail so it is important for hikers to be aware of them so they don’t trip, fall or become injured.

I carefully looked over the cliffside to determine how high I was standing above the gorge below. The views from here are breathtaking.

There are moments along my hike where I stop to take in the amazing scenery. I can only imagine this hike and how spectacular it must be in the fall when the leaves are changing.

Stunning Scenery

Cliff-Hanging Scenery

In the distance, frozen water hangs along the cliff of the gorge.

Another view looking down into the gorge

Fir trees stretching up from the gorge below

The challenges of hiking the Conkle’s Hollow Rim Trail

The Conkle’s Hollow Rim trail took me about 2.5 hours to complete which left me plenty of time to hike the Gorge trail below, a 1.2 mile loop. I am looking forward to exploring the gorge after having seen it from above. This will give me the opportunity to photograph some of the frozen waterfalls along my route.

Have you hiked Conkle’s Hollow State Nature preserve Rim Trail? I would love to hear if you enjoyed it as much as I did if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below! Many thanks and Happy Trails!

What to See and What to Do:

Conkle’s Hollow State Nature Preserve
24858 Big Pine Road
Rockbridge, OH 43149

Admission Fee: There is no fee for hiking the trail.
Hours: Open daily
Length of the Tour: 2 – 3 hours
Tips for Your Visit: Wear comfortable shoes for hiking. The rim trail can be very dangerous, so check out the trail before bringing children with you. Stay on the trail. Visit the nature preserve’s website for a map.

Where to Stay:

Hocking Hills Treehouse Cabins
22784 Purcell Road
South Bloomingville, OH 43152
Telephone: 614 599 1899
Website: https://www.hockinghillstreehousecabins.com/

Where to Eat:

JimBo’s Burgers and Beer
23356 State Route 52
South Bloomingville, OH 43152
Telephone: 740 332

What to Read:

Hocking Hills, by Doreen McMillian
Hocking Hills Day Hikes, by Mary Reed

Eagle Sightings at Highbanks, Columbus MetroParks

8 December 201531 August 2024

Hiking in the Midwest, the scenery can change at every season. From the diversity of plants to its wildlife, the Highbanks Metro Park unveils something new each time I visit. What draws me here is the spectacular eagle’s nest viewing area, equipped with binoculars for visitors to enjoy watching the eagles and their young.

My hike began at the Oak Coves Picnic Area where I picked up the Overlook Trail and then finished my trek across the Dripping Rock Trails for a total of 4.1 miles in a double loop. A small connector trail added about fifteen minutes to my hike. A couple of side trails led to a protected Native American mound, while another provided an overlook to view the Olentangy State Scenic River.

My first stop was the Pool family cemetery, which is believed to be the resting place of the first white settlers in this area. The first evidence of Indian life at Highbanks are the earthworks that cover 1500 feet. The area, shaped like the letter C, is said to be from the Cole Indians who built this wall to protect their village from attack.

I reached the fork in the road and decided to take the path that reached the overlook. I climbed 110 feet to the deck for the panoramic view of the Olentangy River and the sycamore trees below.

Off in the distance was an eagle’s nest. During the late winter and early spring months, the park staff set up a telescope for a closer view of the eagles and the eaglets after they have hatched.

The trail reached back around to the start of the loop where I backtracked over the connector that joined the two trails. Before reaching the Dripping Rock Trail, I managed to see a side trail to the Adena Mound, so I took the detour to explore a bit of American history.

I exited the mound trail and made a right towards the nature center. While I didn’t make a stop, I learned that it is a great facility for bird watching.

The Dripping Rock Trail is a pretty straightforward loop with a couple of locations to see dripping rocks. There is an observation deck three miles into the walk, which is a wonderful location to view wildflowers. After passing under the overpass, climbing a small hill and crossing a bridge, the trail had come to an end.

This trail is considered moderate due to the hills, but it is manageable with some great observation decks and artifacts. For more information about Highbanks Metro Park and this trail, visit the Columbus Metro Parks website at www.metroparks.net. Happy Trails!

What to See and What to Do:

Highbanks Metro Park
9466 Columbus Pike
Lewis Center, OH 43035
Telephone: 614 906 3149

Admission Fee: No admission fee
Hours: Daily from 6:30AM to 10PM from April to September and 6:30AM to 8 PM from October to March
Amenities: Eagle sighting; Adena mounds, hiking, biking, shelters and lodges, canoeing/kayaking, cross country skiing, day camps, fishing, nature centers, picnicking and sledding.
Scenic View: Eagle Observation deck provides an amazing opportunity to view the eagle’s nest at the park.
Length of Visit: at least 1 hour
Tips for Your Visit: Camping is not permitted at the park and no person is permitted to feed the park animals.

Where to Stay:

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Columbus – Worthington
175 Hutchinson Avenue
Columbus, OH 43235
Telephone: 614 885 3334

Where to Eat:

Saigon Asian Bistro
50 Neverland Drive
Lewis Center, OH 43035
Telephone: 740 657 8887

The chicken lettuce wraps (appetizer) was exceptional and had a bit of heat, which suited me fine.

Disclosure: Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

From Adena Mounds to Ant Hills, there is so much to see at Highbanks!

Delicate Flowers at Highbanks Metro Park, Columbus

Taking the bridge over the creek

Our Last Day in Hale

3 November 201531 August 2024

Shelly, Izzy, Erika and Gunnar would be leaving for home today and we were sad to see them go. It was an overcast day with large billowy clouds so we packed up a picnic lunch and started out for Lumberman’s Monument. Overlooking the Au Sable River, we arrived at the 14-foot statue and visited the visitor’s center before setting out for a hike.

Grace and Bennett were snuggled safe on the backs of their Mom and Dad, taking in the scenic views and eating snacks.

The sandy trail followed the edge of the Au Sable with stunning views of the surrounding water and trees.

We hiked through lush fern-filled forests where we spotted squirrels and chipmunks.

Grace had fun picking up small pinecones from the nearby fir trees.

It was time for lunch, so we found a place to have a picnic.

Grace was happy to sit on her Daddy’s shoulders so she could have a perfect view.

Grandpa posed for pictures.

It was our last moments to explore Hale, Michigan and its nearby surroundings. We thought it would be fun for one last evening on the lake and to have a small campfire for making s’mores.

After a quick swim, we took the pontoon around the perimeter of the lake to enjoy the scenery for our last night on vacation.

The sun was beginning to set and with a perfectly built campfire, we sat around and talked about the highlights of our vacation.

We laughed about how hot it had been in Hale and began planning our next adventure.

I’m not sure if Grace had more fun making s’mores or eating them.

We toasted the remaining marshmallows before putting out the fire and preparing for bed. The last night was a great way to wrap up such a relaxing day before our long drive back to Ohio.

Have you visited Hale, Michigan or Long Lake? What was your experience? I would love to hear about your visit if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my family Michigan vacation and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Relax on the lake…swimming, boating fishing

Where to Stay:

We went through VRBO to find this lovely lake house in Hale, Michigan.

Where to Eat:

Long Lake Bar & Grill
5002 E. Main Street
Long Lake, MI 48743
Telephone: 989 257 2017

Dock your boat at Long Lake Bar & Grill and enjoy some hamburgers and fries. Check out Uncle Kracker’s “Smile” video which was filmed in this area.

What to Eat:

Better Made potato chips
Biggby Coffee
Chipati – pocket bread stuffed with salad
Detroit-style pizza where the toppings are under the sauce and loaded with cheese
Hummer – drink made with kahlua, rum and ice cream
Pasty – pastry shell with savory fillings
Vernor’s Ginger Ale

Exploring An Ancient Archaeological Site, Fort Ancient Earthworks in Oregonia, OH

30 July 201514 December 2024

Tightening my boots in preparation for the trail, I was excited to be reaching the Fort Ancient Earthworks for a late morning hike. Since moving to Columbus, I have been fascinated by the Ohio Indian tribes that once made their home in the valley. I wanted to learn more about the Hopewell Indians, their customs, history and their building of the multiple mounds throughout the state.

I found a great parking spot close to Morgan’s Livery and Canoe in Oregonia, specifically designated for hikers and cyclists. Conveniently located near the trailhead, I crossed over the bridge where I shortly arrived for my hike.

I walked along the paved bike path for a short distance when I noticed the entrance to the Fort Ancient trail. It was springtime and a bit overcast, which was the perfect combination for an afternoon hike. I was happy for the sign that reminded me of the $12 entrance fee and for the distance calculations for reaching both the earthworks and the museum.

Although the hike was not far, it was steep. It took me about an hour to reach the earthworks but it was well worth the trek. I noticed a sign guiding me to the South Overlook so I followed it. I reached the overlook and realized that this would be a wonderful place to visit during the fall. There were so many trees in the distance and I imagined the colorful display when the leaves began to change. I decided to head back towards the museum passing a large number of hills that reach heights of about 23 feet.

As I continued to explore the small section of the mounds stretching over three and a half miles, there were signs that reminded me to stay off of the prehistoric earthworks. There were also several markers that provided information about the Indians as well as the history of the area.

Researchers first believed that the high walls were used for defense and protection, but their theory was later disproven by archaeologists who confirmed it was used for religious and social purposes.

The map showed that I was heading north and walking towards the visitor’s center. I noticed a group of people dressed up as Indians in the distance and could see a couple of large teepees. As I approached the area walking along the mounds, I realized that there must have been an Indian celebration the night before.

There were multiple tables set up with Indian handicrafts and artwork. I was impressed with the craftsmanship of the headdresses, clothing and tools.

I continued the trail towards the museum surrounded by the earthworks. I paid the entrance fee and began to explore the exhibit. Several stations were set up that explained the primitive way of life for the Indians in this area. There were miniature scale models to show how the villages were set up and the types of housing that was constructed during that time.

In addition to the lives of the Hopewells and Fort Ancients, there are displays of animals that once roamed the region but are now extinct.

I was also fascinated by the artifacts that were found in the area and the creative artwork that was discovered during excavations.

One of my favorite exhibits chronicled the later lives of Tecumseh and his brother Tenskwatawa and their final days in Ohio. I grew up watching the outdoor drama, Tecumseh, that took place each summer and looked forward to it each year.

I think we often times lose sight that the Indians were the First Ohioans. I find it wonderful that Ohio makes an effort to preserve the history of these Indians and their tribes. From outdoor dramas to museums and from literature to parks, we can continue to understand a culture and people that have made an impact on the history of our great country, the United States.

Fort Ancient hosts an annual Fort Ancient Spring Wildflower Walk around the first Saturday in April each year.

Have you had the opportunity to visit Fort Ancient? I would love to hear about your experience if you will kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my visit to Fort Ancient Earthworks to learn more about the prehistoric Indians of Ohio! Wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Fort Ancient Archaeological Park
6123 OH-350
Oregonia, OH 45054
Telephone: 513 932 4421

Admission Fee: $7 for adults, $6 for seniors (60+), $6 for students aged 6 – 17; children under 6 and members are free.
Hours: April through November from 10AM to 5PM on Tuesday through Saturday, Sunday from noon to 5 and closed on Mondays. December through March from 10AM to 5PM on Sunday and noon to 5 on Sunday; closed Monday through Friday except by appointment
Amenities: Outdoor archaeological site, museum, children’s groups, tour groups, facility rental, museum store, restrooms, picnic area
Scenic View: Wander among the mysterious Indian mounds
Length of Visit: 1 – 2 hours
Tips for Your Visit: Do not climb upon the mounds. The site is a religious and hollowed location for the Indians, so one should visit in reverence taking this into consideration.

Where to Stay:

The Golden Lamb Restaurant & Hotel
27 South Broadway Street
Lebanon, OH 45036
Telephone: 513 932 5065

Where to Eat:

The Golden Lamb Restaurant & Hotel
27 South Broadway Street
Lebanon, OH 45036
Telephone: 513 932 5065

I began my dinner with The Golden Lamb’s famous sauerkraut balls. I selected the Noodles & Ale Cheese from the House Specialties, with smoked chicken, andouille sausage, campanelle pasta and creamy amber ale cheese sauce. For dessert, I could not resist ordering Sister Lizzie’s Shaker Sugar Pie with Tahitian Vanilla Gelato.

What to Eat:

Skyline Chili: My go-to meal at Skyline is the 4-way chili with onion served with oyster crackers and hot sauce. I always pick up two York peppermint patties after cashing out. Cincinnati chili is a beef based sauce served over spaghetti noodles and cheese. Additional toppings include onions and beans.
LaRosa’s Pizza: A local chain pizzeria, this Sicilian style pie is made with a sweet crust and sauce. My favorite menu item is the Caprese pesto Flatbread Pizza.
Graeter’s Ice Cream: It’s the French Pot process that makes Graeter’s Ice Cream so decadent and rich. Towards the end of the process, they pour chocolate into the mix creating large chunks of yummy goodness.
Montgomery Inn BBQ: Visiting the original Montgomery Inn BBQ at the boathouse is a culinary and scenic experience. Their ribs are served with a sweet and tangy sauce that has since made them the “Ribs King” and a favorite among locals. Load up on their amazing BBQ flavored Saratoga chips,
Glier’s Goetta: While it looks like a slab of corn beef hash, this breakfast staple is made of sausage and oats, cooked until crispy. Most breakfast restaurants carry it as a side, especially the local cafes and diners.
BonBonerie: One of the most decadent pastry shops in Cincinnati, their rich confections are absolutely amazing.

Where to Drink:

Moerlein Lager House
115 Joe Nuxhall Way
Cincinnati, OH 45202
Telephone: 513 421 2337

What to Read:

Eligible: A Modern Retelling of Pride & Prejudice, by Curtis Sittenfeld
Running, by J.T. Cooper
Dead Witch Walking, by Kim Harrison
Beloved, by Toni Morrison
Double Dutch, by Sharon M. Draper
Romiette and Julio, by Sharon M. Draper

Photo Guide for Cincinnati (as provided by Chris Thompson on FourSquare):

The John A Roebling Suspension Bridge
- Pick a spot near the Covington pier and shoot north toward the Cincinnati skyline. Shoot at sunset and underexpose by a few stops to get the lights just right.
- The new lights on the bridge create excellent stars when you photograph them using a narrow aperture (~f/16 and above) on your camera. That means you’ll need a longer exposure (and thus a tripod).
General James Taylor Park
- Shoot from the top of the flag pole mound to get more building reflections in your shot. Shoot at sunset or sunrise for great lighting.
Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal
- Arrive first thing in the morning when the sun is coming up
The Fountain at Fountain Square
- For great photos of the fountain: set your camera on a tripod and use a long exposure (2-5 seconds) to capture the running water. Get Carew or the colored lights above Rock Bottom in the background.
Fountain Square (look for reflections in puddles)
Celestial Restaurant in Mount Adams – The restaurant is now closed, but you may still be able to use the parking lot.
Carew Tower Observation Deck
- Provides some neat photos of the highways snaking around the city. Set your camera on a tripod and use a long exposure to get moving car trails. It’s only open at sunset a few days each year.
Engine Company 46, 2733 Erie Avenue (at Michigan), Cincinnati
- One of the most beautiful historic firehouses in all of Cincinnati. The firefighters here are used to having their photo taken while they work. Ask nicely and you can get some cool shots.
Cincinnati Observatory Center
Krohn Conservatory
Great American Ball Park
- Shoot the front of the stadium around sunset to get a nice color blue in the sky. Get one of the player statues in your shot for extra effect.
Devou Park
- The overlook next to the Drees pavilion affords a great view of the Cincinnati skyline. Shoot at sunrise or sunset for the best lighting. Underexpose slightly to get the city lights just right.
Newport Central Catholic for fireworks
- Shoot the Riverfest fireworks from this location. Bring a long lens and a tripod. You’ll want a long-ish exposure (5-10 seconds) to capture the bursts, but make sure the skyline isn’t overexposed.
Riverfront Park
- The colorful fountains make a great subject, but you need to use a relatively fast shutter speed (>1/20 or so) to catch the lights before they change color, leaving your pic with plain white lights.
American Sign Museum
- Be sure to bring a tripod to capture all the signs. Manual white balance is the way to go, because there are so many crazy colors of lights that your camera won’t know how to react.

Parking lot is beside the Morgan Canoe and Livery Center

Teepees at Fort Ancient

Conkle’s Hollow Gorge Trail

19 March 201531 August 2024

There was a dead quiet as I approached the trail head for the Conkle’s Hollow Gorge Trail. I had just completed the two and a half mile Conkle’s Hollow Rim Trail and was ready to tackle the three mile hike through the gorge. Conkle’s Hollow State Nature Preserve is a part of the Hocking Hills State Park near Athens, Ohio with some of the best hiking in Ohio.

The temperatures had been below freezing for several days. While the gorge sheltered me from the cold winds from the rim, the wintry conditions within the crevices and caves protected the spectacular frozen waterfall formations.

Looking up from the gorge trail, I noticed the path I had just taken along the rim. As I took a moment in search of a hiker or two along the edge, I became more aware of the tall, still trees and the outcropping of rocks.

Through the trees there were several small crevices that were not reachable from the path. Escaping the cold, I wondered what animals could be hibernaring inside of them.

I passed a cave-like structure of sandstone to my right and then climbed the stairs to explore the beautiful colors and pitted markings unique to each of the rocks.

Looking up into the rock formations, the porous sandstone seemed to make a great home for insects.

Ice Formations

Several frozen water features seemed to be growing up from the rocks below.

One of the largest frozen waterfalls along the trail.

I enjoyed finding images in the rock formations.

The scenic views of hiking

Exposed root systems

What a spectacular sight

I looked up towards the sky one last time making my way back to the trailhead. I was reminded of the beauty of winter hikes and the unique features of the gorge. Considered a favorite of many, I have always made a stop along the gorge and the rim during my visits to Hocking Hills State Park.

The trail took nearly an hour to complete and I was ready to move on to Old Man’s Cave. What a great start to a beautiful day of hiking.

Have you hiked Conkle’s Hollow State Nature Preserve Gorge Trail? I would love to hear if you enjoyed it as much as I did if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below! Many thanks and Happy Trails!

What to See and What to Do:

Conkle’s Hollow State Nature Preserve
24858 Big Pine Rd.
Rockbridge, OH 43149
Telephone: 614 265 6561

Admission Fee: Free. All state parks in Ohio are free.
Hours: Open daily and closes at dark.
Tips for Your Visit: While there are no campsites nor lodges, cottages and cabins. There are several local business that offer these services. Stay on the trails to ensure you do not become lost. Wear appropriate hiking shoes/comfortable shoes for hiking. While dog are permitted at the park they are not allowed in the state nature preserves such as Conkle’s Hollow and Rockbridge.

Where to Stay:

Pine Creek Horseman’s Camp
23937 Big Pine Road
South Bloomingville, OH 43152
Telephone: 740 478 2520

While I usually stay with my sister and her family in nearby Athens, I learned about Pine Creek Horseman’s Camp for a local friend. This property offers gorgeous luxury cabins as well as campsites and is perfect for visitors bringing their horses for trailriding.

Where to Eat:

Cutler’s Restaurant at the Ohio University Inn
331 Richland Avenue
Athens, OH 45701
Telephone: 740 589 3714

If you visit the park on a Saturday, take time to enjoy brunch at the OU Inn.

Disclosure: Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

Exploring Central Costa Rica

1 December 201431 August 2024

We spent a couple of days hanging out on the beach, cooking fresh seafood and making daily trips to the grocery store. It was time for us to travel inland towards the Arenal Volcano, La Fortuna Waterfall and spend a night at Tabacon Hot Springs. Our route took us northwest up the coast where we would make a quick stop in Jaco before making the trek towards our first stop at the waterfall. We crossed the bridge saying goodbye to the alligators before stopping at the market for some road snacks then hopped on route 34 passing quaint little coastal towns along the way.

La Fortuna was an impressive 200 feet tall and we couldn’t wait to see one of Costa Rica’s most beautiful waterfalls. The roar of the falls could be heard before we reached this magnificent cascade. This spectacular force of nature is one of the most popular sites in Central America. It didn’t take us long to descend the steps to the rocky base but took note that somehow we would have to make our way back the way we came down.

We had packed a picnic, so we found a space to admire the waterfall and the incredible mist that called us to take a swim. I couldn’t help but test out the water, but even in the tropics, I was surprised the water was so cold and decided against jumping in.

It was difficult to break away from this magical spot, but we wanted to hike up to the Arenal Volcano where we would find several viewpoints and scenic lookouts. The national park is the second most visited in the country and for so many reasons. This was once the most active volcano in Costa Rica, but it has remained dormant since 2010. The last time Arenal exploded was 1968 which destroyed the towns of Tabacon and Pueblo Nuevo. At the time of my visit in 2006, there were rumors that the top could blow off at any moment, but we decided not to let that stop us.

I was pleasantly surprised that there were only two trails and that they were so short with the maximum length measuring 2.1 miles. Hikers can pass through lava beds from blasts from the volcano’s past and capture scenic views of Lake Arenal.

While the hike in the park has a beautiful scenic area we decided to visit the Arenal Observatory for views of the volcano and lake. Both were stunning, impressive and worth the detour.

Lake Arenal is Costa Rica’s largest lake measuring 33 square miles. There are a wide range of activities that revolve around this large, man-made body of water such as boating, windsurfing, hiking, biking and of course spectacular fishing. Arenal is known for its guapote, a local fish with sharp teeth and aggressive attitude. I was surprised to learn that the ancient villages of Tronadora and Arenal are actually below the current lake, while newly built hotels around the volcano offer spectacular views and luxury accommodations.

It was getting late and we stopped at the Tabacon Hot Springs before checking into the Thermal Resort & Spa for the night. Sitting under the grandeur of Arenal Volcano, this gorgeous hideaway is the perfect location for exploring and experiencing the natural pools of Costa Rica. Visitors are not required to stay at the resort to enjoy a day of pampering and can book a day pass. While the Resort and Spa are family friendly, the Shangri-La Gardens is more private and accommodating for an adults-only experience.

The thermal spa was perfect for soothing our muscles after a long ride in the car and the luxurious bed was the perfect spot for an amazing night’s sleep, and what a restful night it was.

Have you visited Costa Rica? What was your favorite place and do you have any recommendations for where to spend my next stay in this beautiful country? I would love to hear from you if you would leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my journey through central Costa Rica and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

La Fortuna Waterfall
Alajuela Province
La Fortuna, Costa Rica
Telephone: 506 2479 9515

Admission Fee: 18 US dollars to enter
Hours: All year around from 7AM to 5PM
Amenities: third party tours provide more details; check Viator for more information
Length of Visit: 1 – 2 hours
Tips for Your Visit: Wear comfortable shoes for walking. The busiest time is midday and early afternoon, so it is suggested to arrive in the morning.

Arenal Volcano
Alajuela Province, Costa Rica
Lake Arenal
Arajuela Province, Costa Rica

Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa
Noreste de Centro de la Fortuna de San Carlos 13 Km
Provincia de Alajuela, Nuevo Arenal, Costa Rica
Telephone: 877 277 8291

Admission Fee: No charge to visit the hot springs at the resort.
Hours: Check with the resort for hours of operation
Length of Visit: 1 – 2 hours
Tips for Your Visit: Wear comfortable shoes for walking and bathing suit for enjoying the hot springs.

Where to Stay:

Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa
Noreste de Centro de la Fortuna de San Carlos 13 Km
Provincia de Alajuela, Nuevo Arenal, Costa Rica
Telephone: 877 277 8291

Where to Eat:

Jaco:
Los Mahi Tacos de Cholo
Centro Commercial Urena, Local 3
Avenida Pastor Diaz Diagonal a Calle El Bohio
Jaco Central, Jaco, Garabito Municipality
61101 Costa Rica
Telephone: 506 8741 0562

La Fortuna:
Spectacolar Cantina
Meters west from La Fortuna Church 125
Arenal Volcano National Park
La Fortuna de San Carlos 21007 Costa Rica
Telephone: 506 8569 7676

What to Eat:

Arroz con Leche is translated to rice with milk and is a popular dessert in Costa Rica. Additional ingredients include milk, cinnamon, salt and lemon zest, making this a delicious end to your meal.
Casado, which means marriage which is an interesting combination of meat such as beef, pork, chicken and fish as well as rice, beans, tortillas, fried platano maduro and salad. In addition, the dish also includes a fruit juice.
Gallo Pinto is a mixture of rice and beans with red bell peppers, onions, cilantro and other spices. The secret ingredient is the Salsa Lizano. It is a popular breakfast dish.
Sopra Negra is translated to black soup, which is the base of this delicious soup. Included with the black beans, there are onions, peppers, tomatoes, soft boiled eggs and spicy spices.
Tamales are similar to their Mexican cousin, but there are some differences, one of which is the wrapping. In Costa Rica, tamales are wrapped in banana leaves rather than corn husks.

What to Read:

It’s Every Monkey for Themselves: A True Story of Sex, Love and Lies in the Jungle by Vanessa Woods
Oro by Cizia Zyke
Green Phoenix: Restoring the Tropical Forests of Guanacaste, by William Allen
Monkeys are Made of Chocolate: Exotic and Unseen Costa Rica, by Jack Ewing
Costa Rica: A Traveler’s Literary Companion by Barbara Ras, Oscar Arias
The Year of Fog, by Michelle Richmond

Photo Guide for Costa Rica:

Manuel Antonio National Park for wild animals such as sloths and monkeys
Tortuguero National Park for amazing loggerheads and hawksbill
Poas Volcano National Park for its impressive view of the interior of the volcano

Visiting the Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park

13 October 201431 August 2024

Planning our visit to the Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park on The Big Island, we decided to take the short hike to the Kilauea’iki Crater, explore the lava tubes and hike over massive acres of black molten rock to watch the red hot lava dripping out into the sea.

We began our visit to the park with a stop at the Kilauea Visitor Center to check out the scheduled activities for the day and to pick up a map of the area. The park offers guests the opportunity to explore several unique geological features and is home to two of the world’s most active volcanoes – Kilauea and Mauna Loa. Millions of tourists visit the Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park each year to explore the dramatic volcanic landscapes and rare vegetation that can only be found here.

Here is a photographic overview of my visit to Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park:

Steam Vents in Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park

Volcanic Crater

Cracked Lava, Hawai’i

Inside a Lava Tube

Volcanic Crater

Warning: Walking on Lava

Hiking on the Lava

Yards of Solidified Lava

Watching the Hot Lava Dripping into the Ocean

Seeing a Beautiful Rainbow during our Hike

It was amazing to see the hot volcanic lava dripping into the ocean. Just the thought of standing on an active volcano was absolutely surreal. So many thoughts ran through my mind as we walked out for the viewing and then on our way back to the car, only because there is no guarantee that the volcano would not erupt at any moment. I can tell you, I certainly wasn’t too sad to leave in the event that it may actually happen.

Have you visited Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park? What was your favorite experience? I would love to hear about your adventure if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reviewing my photos of my visit and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
1 Crater Rim Drive
Hawaii National Park, HI 96718
Telephone: 808 985 6101

Admission Fee: $25 per private vehicle (capacity of 15 persons or less); $20 per motorcycle (valid for 7 days); $12 per Bicycle (valid for 7 days); $12 per walk-in pedestrian (valid for 7 days); $12 per person for groups of 16 persons and over
Hours: The park is open 24 hours daily, year round. K?lauea Visitor Center is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Amenities: The Volcano House Hotel offers in-room WiFi and cellular reception throughout the park is good with the exception of the backcountry); lost and found services; website for information about the current volcano conditions and area closures;
Guided Tours and Conservatory Map: Ranger Programs and Guided Tours are available for large groups. Map available online or at the ranger stations
Length of the Tour: 1 full day at minimum
Tips for Your Visit: Pets are permitted only in designated areas. Drones are not permitted; Wear layers when visiting the volcano summits as weather is 12 to 15 degrees cooler at the top. Download a map of the park by visiting the national park’s website.

Where to Stay:

Volcano Rainforest Retreat
11-3832 Twelfth Street
Volcano, HI 96785
Telephone: 808 985 8696 or 800 550 8696

Where to Eat:

Café Ono
Big Island of Hawaii
19-3834 Old Volcano Road
Volcano Village, Hawaii 96785
Telephone: 808 985 8979

This restaurant came highly recommended so we were excited to visit this award-winning café. I ordered the 4 cheese spinach crustless quiche combo which was served with soup, garden salad, garlic bread or brown rice.

What to Eat:

Kalua Pig: Hawaii is famous for its Kalua Pig, similar to American pulled pork.
Poi: Made from taro root which is similar to a potato, the poi we sampled was “pounded” into a thick starch. This cooking technique results in a sticky pudding-like dessert which is purple in color.
Poke: Similar to Japanese sashimi, yet the fish is cut into chunky cubes and usually served over a bed of rice.

What to Read:

Unfamiliar Fishes, by Sarah Vowell
A Hawaiian Reader
The Spell of Hawaii
Unwritten Literature of Hawaii: The Sacred Songs of the Hula, by Nathaniel B. Emerson
The Light in the Crevice Never Seen, by Haunani-Kay Trask
Waikiki: A History of Forgetting & Remembering, by Gaye Chan

Photo Guide to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park:

Kilauea at night (go about 300 yards north of the museum along the crater rim trail to avoid the crowds)
Kilauea Iki Trail
The stars over Kilauea
Lava
Nene birds
Steam vents on the drive in to Kilauea
Sunset

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Exploring the Rockies on a Long Weekend

1 September 201431 August 2024

My friend Melissa invited me on her family vacation to the Rocky Mountains for a long weekend of camping. There were six of us making the trip, so we all met up in Denver, then picked up our luggage and rental car. It was late afternoon by the time we hit the road and we were all excited about our drive towards the mountains.

This was not going to be a luxury weekend of hotels and fine dining, but we were equally stoked to be camping out in the wide open space. Mel’s father loved his annual trips, coming to the mountains to hunt elk with bow and arrow. He and his wife, Penny had been camping here for several years and stayed in the same area where we would have plenty of space.

We made a pact that we would stop at every bar that we saw on our way….luckily there was just one. We enjoyed a couple of drinks and left long before they started dancing. We had places to see and wanted to reach the campsite before dark.

I had never been to Colorado so I knew this long weekend would take me back to childhood camping trips. I was so excited for the opportunity to go hiking, four-wheeling and exploring. The site where we would be staying was just past the Rocky Mountain National Park, which meant that we would be driving through it. I was looking forward to seeing elk for the first time.

I was in love with the gorgeous scenery where mountains rose up on both sides of our drive. We found several pull-outs where we could take photos and enjoy the scenic views. Having rented an SUV, our four-wheel drive vehicle hugged the road that seemed to barely hang off the cliff. Stretching over 3000 miles, the Rockies reach as far north as Canada, but I was most impressed that the tallest of its peaks were here in Colorado.

Traveling a long stretch of winding roads, it was a relief for my stomach that we had finally reached the national park. So happy for the fewer switchbacks and thankful that the road leveled out. In the distance, we began to see elk roaming among the pines, firs and maple trees, but we just weren’t close enough to see them well.

As we continued deeper into the park, I began to notice that the elk were more friendly and unafraid of us. We took a few moments to hop out of the car for a few photos and that was when I realized just how big they really are.

I couldn’t believe we were so close to them….they are absolutely gorgeous.

As we continued our drive, it was obvious that we were once again driving dangerously close to the edge of the road.

Continuing our climb, our visibility had decreased. There were several times when we were surrounded by lofty clouds. The temperature had dropped, so we grabbed our coats to keep warm. We began to see poles coming up from the ground and realized that they were placed there to measure the snowfall.

It was early evening when we reached the campsite. The Smallwoods had already set up camp, so we dropped off our belongings at the heated tent. Penny and Dean were waiting for us and we visited with them before making dinner. Dean, Melissa’s dad, hunts for elk and keeps the meat to feed themselves and their neighbors making amazing jerky and summer sausage.

With Fred, their yellow lab by our side, we rested by the fire to acclimate to the altitude. Some of the symptoms for altitude sickness include dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting, fatigue and loss of energy, shortness of breath and problems sleeping. So far, we seemed to be doing well and enjoyed our time for drinks and s’mores by the warming flames.

In addition to bow stands, we had a makeshift bathroom with a camouflage curtain.

After taking a tour of the property and eating a light dinner, we prepared for bed so we could wake up early and explore the area. We had plans for hiking the next day and taking out the ATVs.

We all slept well and were able to sleep in. After a country breakfast of bacon, eggs and hash browns over an open fire, we piled in the rented Volvo and drove towards our first stop, Lost Lake.

Our Lost Lake hike was just outside the small village of Grand Lake. Within minutes, the trail opened up to this amazing body of water where the trees reflected in the water. The sun was shining and we soon found a place on the rocks to soak in its warmth. We stayed for about an hour before heading back to the parking lot.

We were crazy enough to hike up the side of one of the tall hills so we could see the area from a completely different view.

Having a little time before heading back to the park, we needed to stop by the store in Grand Lake. We picked up some supplies and watched the sunset.

On our last day of our long weekend, we were excited to see Estes Park. Another rest haven within the mountains, we had a beautiful day to walk the small village before returning to the camp to ride ATVs for the last time.

We packed a lot of activities within such a short period of time but was thrilled to see the beauty of the Rockies. With one more night for a restful sleep, we were happy to have survived the wild.

Have you been to Rocky Mountain National Park? What animals did you see and which areas did you explore? Many thanks for reading about my long weekend in the Rockies and wishing you many Happy Travels!

Disclosure: Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

What to See and What to Do:

Rocky Mountain National Park
Mailing Address:
1000 US Hwy 36
Estes Park, CO 80517
Telephone: 970 586 1208

Admission Fee: 1 day pass for an automobile: $25; 1 day pass for a person: $15; 1 day pass for a motorcycle: $25; 7 day pass for an automobile $35; 7 day pass for a person: $20; 7 day pass for a motorcycle: $30; Rocky Mountain National Park Annual Pass: $70 (valid for one year); America the Beautiful – The National Parks and Federal Recreational Land Passes (entrance fees for national parks and wildlife refuges): $80; Check their website for tour rates, additional discounts and free days.
Hours: Open daily 24 hours a day weather permitting; the park’s visitor centers are opened based on season.
Amenities: Lodging, camping and restaurants, gas stations, medical facilities, cell phone and wifi service, giftshops and grocery stores, rock climbing, horseback riding, fishing, backpacking, hiking, bike tours
Guided Tours: There are third party vendors that provide guided hiking and backpacking, guided bicycle tours and fishing guides.
Length of the Tour: 1 to 5 days
Tips for your Visit from the Park: Annual and lifetime passes take 2 – 4 weeks to process, so if you are traveling before this time, you will want to purchase your ticket once you arrive at the park. Summer and fall are the busiest seasons in the park. Parking lots can be full and roads congested. Arriving early or coming into the park in the late afternoon can help. During the summer and fall free park shuttle buses operate to help you get around the Bear Lake Road. If you are planning to camp overnight in the park, you must be in one of the designated campgrounds or a backcountry campsite. Camping reservations are strongly recommended during the summer and fall. Be sure to check the status of park roads, as some roads close seasonally. Keep in mind that during the fall, winter, and spring, conditions can change quickly in the mountains. Check the weather forecast when planning your visit. Park visitor center hours also vary with the season.

Where to Stay:

Rocky Mountain National Park
Mailing Address:
1000 US Hwy 36
Estes Park, CO 80517
Telephone: 970 586 1208

Where to Eat:

Trail Ridge Store and Cafe is the only location within the park that serves food. Check out the restaurants in nearby Estes Park or Grand Lake.

What to Eat:

Elk-Jalapeno Dog for gamey gourmet dogs
Lamb: Try the Lamb Fondue which is a lamb chop served with a peppery cheese
Rocky Mountain Oysters: bull testicles
Sugar Steak at Bastien’s Restaurant

What to Read:

Death, Despair and Second Chances in Rocky Mountain National Park, by Joseph R. Evans
Outdoor Family Guide: Rocky Mountain National Park, by Lisa Gollin Evans

Photo Guide to the Rocky Mountains and the Surrounding Area:

Adams Falls, Rocky Mountain National Park
Bear Lake for the mountains
Deer Ridge Trail on Trail Ridge Road within Rocky Mountain National Park
Dream Lake for the beautiful mountains in the background of the lake
Emerald Lake for its gorgeous green color
Far View Curve at Trail Ridge Road within Rocky Mountain National Park
Gore Range Overlook on Trail Ridge Road within Rocky Mountain National Park
Grand Lake Pier at sunset
Lava Cliffs on Trail Ridge Road within Rocky Mountain National Park
Rainbow Curve on Trail Ridge Road within Rocky Mountain National Park

Five Reasons You Should Visit the Grand Canyon This Summer

18 August 201431 August 2024

2016 is a special year for the United States National Park Service as they celebrate their 100^th anniversary. What better way to commemorate this milestone than to visit one of their amazing parks this year?

Maybe you should consider The Grand Canyon National Park located outside of Flagstaff, Arizona. This is one of my favorite parks to visit in the US for several reasons, but here are my top five:

The Winding Colorado River, Grand Canyon

The Scenery and Landscapes
How could I even begin to describe the awe that comes from viewing the Grand Canyon? It seems unimaginable that the power of one river, the Colorado, could carve out something so beautiful over a long period of time. With a length of 277 miles and stretching 18 miles wide, this geological phenomenon attracts close to 5 million visitors each year.

April Snow on the Grand Canyon

In addition to the enormity of the canyon, the layer upon layer of color is the perfect backdrop to a kaleidoscope landscape. The park is divided into two sections, the North Rim, reaching heights of about 1,000 feet over the South Rim. This difference in elevation means that the North Rim’s temperature is colder and access to this section of the canyon is limited during the winter season. During one of our visits in April, there was evidence of a recent snowfall.

Depending on the weather, the South Rim is typically open all year round while the North Rim is generally open mid-May to mid-October.

The Fabulous View of the Colorado River, Grand Canyon

History
The Grand Canyon has been inhabited for thousands of years with its first settlements erected by the Native Americans. Known by the Indians as “Ongtupqa”, this was a holy site and pilgrimages were made to this canyon and its many caves. One of the most interesting sites of Indian habitation is located at Nankoweap Creek where ancestral granaries can be found along the Colorado River. Fast forward a few hundred years and the area would eventually be visited by the Spanish and later the Americans. It would one day become a preserve established by President Theodore Roosevelt in 1906 and then declared as the 17^th US National Park in the year 1919 by President Woodrow Wilson.

Desert View Watchtower

Driving or Tram Tour
Many of the buildings, sites and attractions are located on the South Rim and are easily accessible from Grand Canyon Village. The park provides a tram on the grounds which is also very convenient, stopping at the major sites. Here are some of the points of interest on the South Rim.

There are several structures on the South Rim that were designed by Mary Colter to include Bright Angel Lodge, Hopi House, Lookout Studio and one of my favorites, Desert View Watchtower.
Considered the most luxurious of all of the Grand Canyon hotels is the El Tovar Hotel. It was designed by Charles Whittlesely and completed in 1905 in the style of “National Park Rustic”.
Verkamp’s Curios was a popular place to pick up souvenirs and local arts and crafts. It was reopened in 2010 as a visitor center dedicated to the history of the Grand Canyon Village.
Buckey O’Neill Cabin is the “longest continually standing structure”, built in the 1890s. It is currently open as a popular guest house requiring reservations many months in advance.
Kolb Studio was built by two brothers in 1904 as a photography studio on site. The structure became an art gallery after Emery Kolb’s passing in 1976.
One of the most interesting buildings that remains in the park is the Grand Canyon Railway Depot which is said to be one of the last log cabin train stations ever built in the US.

You can also choose to drive the route yourself which will allow you ample time to enjoy the attractions at your own pace.

Stairs Leading down to the bottom of the Grand Canyon, Hiking

Hiking
Hiking is one of the most popular activities within the Grand Canyon. There are several trails that follow the rim of the canyon as well as take hikers deep down into the gorge, reaching the Colorado River. In addition to the strenuous activity of hiking, there are other factors to consider before hitting the trail, such as altitude and weather. Temperatures can reach over 100° F down in the gorge during the summer months and can fall way below freezing in the winter. Hikers must be aware of such effects as sunburn, dehydration and hypothermia.

Plants and Animals
If you are a lover of plants or animals, the Grand Canyon is your paradise. According to Grand Canyon National Park, there are “approximately 1,737 known species of vascular plants, 167 species of fungi, 64 species of moss and 195 species of lichen found in Grand Canyon National Park”. I agree that the plant life is a very important part of the Grand Canyon’s ecology, but I have a greater interest in the wildlife and I am overwhelmed by the number of species that make the canyon their home. Within the park and its environs are an abundance of mammal species. In addition there are birds, fish, amphibians as well as reptiles. Here is an abbreviated list of some of the animals that have been found in the canyon:

· Abert’s squirrels	· Feral burros	· Red squirrels
· Antelope squirrels	· Gray foxes	· Ringtails
· Beavers	· Mountain lions, rare	· Rock squirrels
· Black bears	· Mule deer	· Shrews
· Bobcats	· Muskrats, rare	· Spotted skunks
· Coyotes	· Pocket mice	· Tassel-eared Squirrels
· Desert bighorn sheep	· Porcupines	· Weasels
· Elk	· Raccoons

It is always appropriate to remain cautious should you encounter one of the wild animals at Grand Canyon. Do not feed the animals and stay far enough away to ensure your well-being as well as the animal’s safety.

Although the Grand Canyon is not the deepest canyon in the world, it certainly is spectacular. From hiking to driving, rafting to camping, there are so many other ways to explore this amazing national park. And just when you think you have exhausted all possibilities of things to do, don’t forget to catch a glimpse of this magnificent gorge by helicopter. With its colorful landscape and fascinating geology, it is one of the most interesting of all of the National Parks in the United States.

Have you had the opportunity to visit the Grand Canyon? What is your favorite activity? I would love to hear about your adventure if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below! Many thanks for reading about my visit to the Grand Canyon and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Grand Canyon National Park
PO Box 129
Grand Canyon, AZ 86023
Telephone: 928 638 7888

Admission Fee: $35 per vehicle for seven days; $30 per motorcycle for seven days; $20 per individual (biker, hiker, pedestrian) for seven days; Annual pass for Grand Canyon only: $70
Hours: The South Rim is 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. The North Rim is closed during the winter, so check the sites website for the most recent information.
Amenities: Shuttle system, picnicking, hiking, camping, guided tours, ranger programs, river trips, mule trips, backpacking
Scenic View: Sunset and sunrise from most anywhere in the canyon are spectacular, but the website provides a great list of stops for enjoying sunrise and sunset. ;
Length of Visit: Several days
Tips for Your Visit: The park’s website has a few suggestions such as bring an extra set of keys in the event you lock yourself out because it could be a long wait for a locksmith. Major car repairs in Flagstaff or Williams, Arizona. Keep your gas tank full as the closest gas station may be quite a distance. Finally, carry plenty of water in your car, especially during the summer months.

Where to Stay:

Grand Canyon National Park
PO Box 129
Grand Canyon, AZ 86023
Telephone: 928 638 7888

There are several hotels on the South Rim to include Bright Angel Lodge, El Tovar Hotel, Kachina Lodge, Thunderbird Lodge, Maswik Lodge. There is also an RV park, Yavapai Lodge. For reservations, contact 888 297 2757. If the onsite accommodations are full, there are several hotels surrounding the Grand Canyon.

Phantom Ranch offers dormitories and cabins who are exploring the Grand Canyon by mule or by hiking. Reservations are made through Grand Canyon National Park Lodges via an on-line lottery 15 months in advance.

Where to Eat:

Grand Canyon National Park
PO Box 129
Grand Canyon, AZ 86023
Telephone: 928 638 7888

For a list of restaurants and groceries at The Grand Canyon, select the following link: https://www.nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/restaurants.htm

What to Eat:

Avocado Fries are sliced avocados dipped in spiced bread crumbs and deep fried.
Chiltepin Peppers….very hot!
Cholla, a cactus found in the area, that is boiled and the gooey acid is removed to eat directly or added to salsas.
Cochinitos are a puffy, doughy cookie usually found in the shape of a pig. This light dessert is seasoned with molasses and cinnamon.
Prickly Pear Cactus which is made into a candy and a sweet syrup
Sonoran Hot Dog, popular in Phoenix and Tucson, this Mexican creation is topped with beans, onions, and tomatoes along with mayonnaise and mustard.
Tamales!

What to Read:

The Emerald Isle: The Epic Story of the Fastest Ride in History Through the Heart of the Grand Canyon, by Kevin Fedarko
Grand Canyon, by Jason Chin
The Exploration of the Colorado River and the Canyons, by John Wesley
Over the Edge: Death in the Grand Canyon, by Michael P. Ghiglieri and Thomas M. Myers
The Monkey Wrench Gang by Edward Abbey
I am the Grand Canyon, by Stephen Hirst

Photo Guide for the Grand Canyon:

South Rim Viewpoints: Yavapai Point
Mather Point
Desert View Drive
Shoshone Point
Yaki Point
Grandview Point
Navaho Point
Desert View Watchtower
Hermit Road
Horseshoe Bend
Bright Angel Point
Point Imperial
Cape Royal
Toroweap / Tuweep
Havasu Falls
Best places to watch the sunset:
- Lipan Point
- Navajo Point
- Yavapai Point
- Toroweep
- Point Imperial
- Cape Royal