Tag Archives: Visitor’s Center

The River Trail at Ijams Nature Center, Knoxville, Tennessee

A beautiful canopy of hardwood forest, The North Cove Trail off of the Visitor’s Center leads to the River Trail at Ijams Nature Center.  Depending on the season, there are blooms of silverbell and hydrangea or bloodroot and cut-leaved toothwort.  In late spring, the strong scent of bugbane acts as a natural insect repellent as hummingbirds feed off of the sweet-smelling trumpet creepers.

Halfway through the .2-mile trail is a bridge.  It is the scene of yellow-billed cuckoos and indigo buntings that look like blue, chubby cardinals. The sight of eastern box turtles during the warm summer months and sound of barred owls year around are what draw visitors to this trail throughout the year.

The River Trail was marked by a placard along the path and connected North Cove Trail with the Will Skelton Greenway. Along the .7 mile trek grew American bladdernut and the spicebush which produces bright red fruit in the fall.  Yellow trillium and yellow celandine poppy come into sight during early spring, while Christmas ferns appear during the holiday season.

Located on the trail is the Boardwalk that runs along the Tennessee River.  One of the highlights of this section of the walk is the geological rock formations and Maude Moore’s Cave.

A group of boy scouts paddle their canoes along the quiet, calm Tennessee River.  It was a cool, peaceful morning for earning their badges as they identified plants and trees on the banks of the waterway.  Along the river were sounds of the yellow and grey prothonotary warblers and swallows flying overhead.

Granite rock structures protruded from the cliffs.  The serene landscape and solitude were interrupted by the sounds of birds perched in the nearby sycamore trees. The area is home to the white-eyed vireos, common yellow-throats, bald eagles and ospreys.

It was early enough in the morning where the coolness of the day appeared as a mist hovering over the river.  We noticed a fisherman in a kayak trying his luck at catching bluegill and sunfish.

We soon approached one of the entrances to Cave Springs Caves, which were carved out by an underground stream.  These entryways have been boarded up with wood to protect the bats and salamanders that live inside.  Known by the locals as Maude Moore’s Cave, it was given this name because Maude, after having shot and killed Roy Harth, she hid in this cave system until giving herself up to law enforcement.  She was later found not guilty for acting in self-defense.

On occasion, we looked over the side of the Boardwalk into the Tennessee River to see if there were turtles, lizards or snakes resting along the rocks.   There was also the potential to see blue herons, belted kingfishers and crested cormorants that frequent the area to snack on a fish or two.

Although we couldn’t feel it, the earth beneath us was moving, creating  faults and folds that are eventually exposed at the surface.  Along the River Trail at Ijams Nature Center, there is a geological fold of rocks as a result of the pressure from the underground movement, but lucky for us, we hadn’t even noticed.

We came to a point where we had to decide whether to follow the River Trail or stay on the boardwalk.  A set of rock stairs led up into the sugar maples, but we opted to continue towards the gravel road that leads to an old quarry and cedar glade.  We eventually passed an obstacle course and noticed a placard  that informed us of the meadow habitat up ahead.

We crossed through the field and found a small pond, home to frogs, salamanders and newts.  The Visitor’s Center was within view, ending our hike and so we decided to go in for an opportunity to learn more about the Ijam’s nature center and its habitat.

Have you had the chance to visit Ijam’s Nature Center in Knoxville?  What was the most fascinating aspect of your visit?  I would be interested in hearing about your time spent at Ijam’s if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.  Many thanks for reading about my hike and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Ijam’s Nature Center
2915 Island Home Avenue
Knoxville, TN  37920
Telephone:  865 577 4717

Where to Stay:

Four Points Sheraton Knoxville Cumberland House
1109 White Avenue
Knoxville, TN  37916
Telephone:   865 971 4663

Where to Eat:

Babalu
412 S. Gay Street
Knoxville, TN  37902
Telephone:  865 329 1002

Check out my write up on this fabulous tapas restaurant, Babalu.

What to Eat in Knoxville:

  • Brunch at Bistro on the Bayou
  • Chicken pot pie
  • Fried Green Tomatoes
  • Mac and Cheese
  • Meatloaf
  • Tennessee Whiskey

What to Read:

  • Historic Knoxville: The Curious Visitor’s Guide to Its Stories and Places, by Jack Neely

Photo Guide to Knoxville: 

  • Bike Sculpture
  • Bridge Sunrise
  • CityView Sunset from SoKno
  • Fort Dickerson Quarry
  • Gay Street
  • Greetings from Knoxville Postcard Mural
  • House Mountain
  • Sunsphere
  • Tennessee Theater on the corner of Gay Street and Clinch Avenue
  • A View from the Bluffs

Gettysburg National Military Park – The Final Day of Battle

The Battle of Gettysburg commenced at 4:30 AM on Culp’s Hill beginning its third day of conflict. Union troops opened fire on Confederates as they began their climb up the hill.   General Lee’s strategy was to come in from the east and the south, but he also knew that if they were going to succeed, they would need to fight against the Union center on Cemetery Ridge.  Two hours of the most intense fighting ever recorded in North American history took place between 1 to 3 PM.

General George Pickett’s men were the last to arrive from Virginia.  The Confederate soldiers were exhausted and additional support was a welcome sight.  Once artillery fire began to slow down, 12,500 Confederate soldiers marched three quarters of a mile through open fields during the heat of the day.  It was 3:30 in the afternoon and this advance would be known as Pickett’s Charge.

It was the last opportunity for the rebels to defeat the Union, but the outcome was unsuccessful.  By the end of the night, they found themselves in the same location where they had started earlier that day.  Over seven thousand Confederates had perished that day and the Union army had lost around three thousand men.   General Lee determined it was time to retreat.

Fighting ceases around 6 PM as a result of a costly defeat to the Confederates.  In total it was estimated that there were nearly 30,000 casualties on both sides.  Lee’s only resort was to retreat back to Virginia across the Potomac River.

“High Water Mark:  Late in the afternoon after a two-hour cannonade some 7,000 Union soldiers posted around The Copse of Trees, The Angle and the Brian Barn repulsed the bulk of the 12,000 – man “Pickett’s Charge” against the Federal center.  This was the climactic moment of the battle.  On July 4, Lee’s army began retreating.  Total casualties (killed, wounded captured and missing) for the three days of fighting were 23,000 for the Union army and as many as 28,000 for the Confederate army.”

The American Civil War would finally end on May 9th, 1865.

Abraham Lincoln gave his famous Gettysburg Address at the Gettysburg National Cemetery (formerly known as the Soldiers’ National Cemetery) on November 19, 1863.  This location is the resting place for over 3,500 Union soldiers killed at the Battle of Gettysburg.

“National Cemetery:  This was the setting for Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address, delivered at the cemetery’s dedication on November 19, 1863.”

It has been said that the Battle of Gettysburg was one of the most costly.  The number of casualties were more than all previous American wars combined.   The remains of human and animal carcasses were strewn across the battlefield in the hot July sun.  This did not include the approximate 23,000 Union casualties that were being treated in the little town of Gettysburg.  It devastated this town with a population of only 2400.

Thousands of visitors pass through the battlefield on an annual basis to relive the history that gave the United States its unity, a nation with “a new birth of freedom”.

Have you visited Gettysburg National Military Park or the Gettysburg National Cemetery?  I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.  Many thanks for following my visit to Gettysburg and wishing you many Happy Travels.

Local Attraction:

Gettysburg National Military Park Museum and Visitor Center
1195 Baltimore Pike
Gettysburg, PA 17325
Telephone: 717 334 1124

  • Admission Fee:  There is no fee charged to enter the Visitor’s center and museum, but there are fees associated with additional activities provided by the park. All activities are free to children ages 5 and under.   To view the 45 minute film narrated by Morgan Freeman, there is a $15 charge for adults (ages 13+) and $10 for children ages 6 – 12.  The museum only experience:  $9 for adults (ages 13+), $7 for children ages 6 – 12.  Guided Bus Tour of the Battlefield: $35 for adults (ages 13+), $21 for children ages 6 – 12;  Eisenhower National Historic Site Tour: $9 for adults (ages 13+), $5 for children ages 6 – 12; The David Wills House:  $7 for adults (ages 13+), $4 for children ages 6 – 12;  NOTE:  Tours of the house are free from June 9 – December 31, 2018. The George Spangler Farm Civil War Field Hospital (open only in summer):  $6 for adults (ages 13+), $2 for children ages 6 – 12.  Visit the website for additional tours which may be available during your visit.
  • Hours: Park grounds and roads:  April 1 – October 31, open from 6 AM to 10 PM; November 1 – March 31, open from 6 AM to 7 PM.  The museum is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM yet closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, New Year’s Day and early closure on Christmas Eve – 2 PM. The Soldier’s National Cemetery is open from dawn to dusk.  Gettysburg Lincoln Railroad Station: November – February: Closed with the exception of holiday dates (see website); March – May open from 10 AM to 5 PM Friday, Saturday and Sunday only; Memorial Day  – Labor Day:  10 AM to 5 PM daily; September – October 10 AM to 5 PM Friday, Saturday and Sunday only.
  • Amenities:  Several tour options, movie at theater, audio guide for scenic drive, hiking, historical reinactments, horseback riding, ranger programs, living history programs and virtual tours and lodging at Bushman House
  • Scenic View: Spectacular views from Little Round Top and observation towers.
  • Length of Visit:  2 – 3 hours or more if you have booked multiple tours.
  • Tips for Your Visit:  Booking a tour is one of the best ways to explore Gettysburg National Military Park. During the auto tour, there are very few restrooms and picnic areas along the route.  There are also no restaurants along the tour, so pack some snacks and water.  Remember that the park is located on hallowed ground and you are asked to treat it with respect.

What to See and What to Do:

Brickhouse Inn Bed & Breakfast
452 Baltimore Street
Gettysburg, PA  17325
Telephone:  717 338 9337

Located in downtown historic Gettysburg, the B&B is within walking distance to shops, restaurants and museums and nearby Culp’s Hill and the Soldier’s Cemetery.

Where to Eat:

Dobbin House
89 Steinwehr Avenue
Gettysburg, PA  17325
Telephone:  717 334 2100

Gettysburg’s oldest and most historic home, the Dobbin House offers an exceptional dining experience as guests are served by wait staff dressed in period costume.

I started with the shrimp cocktail, served with traditional cocktail sauce.  For my main course, I was drawn to the broiled filet mignon and added a Maryland crabcake to my order.

Gettysburg National Military Park – The Second Day of Battle

The second day of The Battle of Gettysburg conflict began with General Lee’s army forming his battle line along Seminary Ridge.  Major General George Meade had arrived at 1AM on July 2, 1863 meeting up with the forces that occupied Culp’s Hill and Cemetery Hill along Cemetery Ridge.  Meade was expecting an army of eighty thousand men who were not far behind.

“North Carolina Memorial:  Early in the day, the Confederate army positioned itself on high ground here along Seminary Ridge, through town and north of Cemetery and Culp’s Hills.  Union forces occupied Culp’s and Cemetery hills and along Cemetery Ridge south to the Round tops, The lines of both armies formed two parallel “fishhooks”.” – The Auto Trail

The Virginia Memorial marks the location where the second day of battle took place.  Meade was prepared for Day 2 of the battle and had lined up cannons from Cemetery Hill stretching all the way towards Little Round Top.   While General Lee discussed his aim of attack with his commanders, this gave the Union plenty of time to prepare and  Union troops under General Dan Sickles, moved to the area known as Devil’s Den.  General Lee launched an attack on the Union around 4PM, the fighting escalated at Culp’s Hill and Cemetery Hill and Meade was calling for more troops because Little Round Top was totally unprotected.  Although there were many casualties, the Union was able to hold their stance, ending Day 2 of the battle.

“Virginia Memorial:  The large open field to the east is where the last Confederate assault of the battle known as “Pickett’s Charge”, occurred July 3rd.” – The Auto Tour

Several notable locations on the auto tour overlap the days of battle but are quite significant to the story.

Pitzer Woods:  In the afternoon of July 2nd, Lt. General James Longstreet placed his Confederate troops along Warfield Ridge anchoring the left of Pitzer Woods”.  – The Auto Tour

Shortly after passing through Pitzer Woods is an observation tower that provides exceptional views of The Peach Orchard and Eisenhower’s Rose Farm.  He purchased the 189-acre farm in 1950.  Once he became President, he raised Angus on the property and it became his sanctuary away from the Oval Office.   After completing two terms in office, Eisenhower and his wife made the farm their permanent home until his death in 1969.

“Warfield Ridge:  Longstreet’s assaults began here at 4PM.  They were directed against Union troops occupying Devil’s Den the Wheatfield, and Peach Orchard, against Meade’s undefended left flank at The Round Tops.” – The Auto Tour

The road begins to take a northeasterly direction.  Before reaching Little Round Top, there is a hike with several memorials and monuments.  I enjoyed taking a break from the auto tour and enjoying the outdoors.

Coming upon Little Round Top, a placard clearly marks the battle site.  This location was a significant hill occupied by the Union forces.

“ Little Round Top:  Quick action by Brig. Gen. Governor K. Warren, Meade’s chief engineer, alerted Union officers to the Confederate threat and brought Federal reinforcements to defend this position.” – The Auto Tour

Continuing the drive along Sykes Avenue and the road reaches large open field known as The Wheatfield and The Peach Orchard.  On the second day of battle, brutal fighting stormed through Little Round Top, Wheatfield and Sherfy’s Peach Orchard.  The Union soldiers continued to hold their lines.

“The Wheatfield:  Charge and countercharge left this field and the nearby woods strewn with over 4,000 dead and wounded.” – The Auto Tour

“The Peach Orchard: The Union line extended from Devil’s Den to here on Emmitsburg Road. Federal cannon bombarded Southern forces across the Rose Farm toward the Wheatfield until about 6:30PM, when Confederate attacks overran this position.” – The Auto Tour

United States Avenue passes the Plum Run Valley.  The fighting eventually reached Plum Run, which later became known as the “Valley of Death”.

“Plum Run:  While fighting raged to the south at the Wheatfield and Little Round Top, retreating Union soldiers crossed this ground on their way from the Peach Orchard to Cemetery Ridge.” – The Auto Tour

United States Avenue dead ends into Hancock Avenue on the left and Sedgewick Avenue towards the right.  Making a sharp left, the Pennsylvania Monument comes into view.

“Pennsylvania Monument: Union artillery held the line alone here on Cemetery Ridge late in the day as Meade called for infantry from Culp’s Hill and other areas to strengthen and hold the center of the Union position.” – The Auto Tour

At Culp’s Hill, there is an observational tower before reaching East Cemetery Hill.

“East Cemetery Hill:  At dusk, Union forces repelled a Confederate assault that reached the crest of the hill.  By day’s end, both flanks of the Union army had been attacked and both had held, despite losing ground.  In a council of war, Meade, anticipating an assault on the center of his line, determined that his army would stay and fight.” – The Auto Tour

As fighting continued throughout the day, the Union army traveled further south and west towards Devil’s Den.  By the end of the day, the Wheat Field was strewn with corpses and the battle ended in a stalemate.

This would end the second day of battle, July 3, 1863.

Are you familiar with the Battle of Gettysburg?  Have you visited the National Military Park?  I would love to hear about your time spent in Gettysburg and what you found most interesting if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.  Many thanks for following my drive through the Gettysburg National Military Park and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Gettysburg National Military Park Museum and Visitor Center
1195 Baltimore Pike
Gettysburg, PA 17325
Telephone: 717 334 1124

  • Admission Fee:  There is no fee charged to enter the Visitor’s center and museum, but there are fees associated with additional activities provided by the park. All activities are free to children ages 5 and under.   To view the 45 minute film narrated by Morgan Freeman, there is a $15 charge for adults (ages 13+) and $10 for children ages 6 – 12.  The museum only experience:  $9 for adults (ages 13+), $7 for children ages 6 – 12.  Guided Bus Tour of the Battlefield: $35 for adults (ages 13+), $21 for children ages 6 – 12;  Eisenhower National Historic Site Tour: $9 for adults (ages 13+), $5 for children ages 6 – 12; The David Wills House:  $7 for adults (ages 13+), $4 for children ages 6 – 12;  NOTE:  Tours of the house are free from June 9 – December 31, 2018. The George Spangler Farm Civil War Field Hospital (open only in summer):  $6 for adults (ages 13+), $2 for children ages 6 – 12.  Visit the website for additional tours which may be available during your visit.
  • Hours: Park grounds and roads:  April 1 – October 31, open from 6 AM to 10 PM; November 1 – March 31, open from 6 AM to 7 PM.  The museum is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM yet closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, New Year’s Day and early closure on Christmas Eve – 2 PM. The Soldier’s National Cemetery is open from dawn to dusk.  Gettysburg Lincoln Railroad Station: November – February: Closed with the exception of holiday dates (see website); March – May open from 10 AM to 5 PM Friday, Saturday and Sunday only; Memorial Day  – Labor Day:  10 AM to 5 PM daily; September – October 10 AM to 5 PM Friday, Saturday and Sunday only.
  • Amenities:  Several tour options, movie at theater, audio guide for scenic drive, hiking, historical reinactments, horseback riding, ranger programs, living history programs and virtual tours and lodging at Bushman House
  • Scenic View: Spectacular views from Little Round Top and observation towers.
  • Length of Visit:  2 – 3 hours or more if you have booked multiple tours.
  • Tips for Your Visit:  Booking a tour is one of the best ways to explore Gettysburg National Military Park. During the auto tour, there are very few restrooms and picnic areas along the route.  There are also no restaurants along the tour, so pack some snacks and water.  Remember that the park is located on hallowed ground and you are asked to treat it with respect.

Where to Stay:

Brickhouse Inn Bed & Breakfast
452 Baltimore Street
Gettysburg, PA  17325
Telephone:  717 338 9337

Located in downtown historic Gettysburg, the B&B is within walking distance to shops, restaurants and museums and nearby Culp’s Hill and the Soldier’s Cemetery.

Where to Eat:

Dobbin House
89 Steinwehr Avenue
Gettysburg, PA  17325
Telephone:  717 334 2100

Gettysburg’s oldest and most historic home, the Dobbin House offers an exceptional dining experience as guests are served by wait staff dressed in period costume.

I started with the shrimp cocktail, served with traditional cocktail sauce.  For my main course, I was drawn to the broiled filet mignon and added a Maryland crabcake to my order.

Continuing Along the Gettysburg Memorial Drive

The Eisenhower Farm

The View from Observation Tower 2

The Insignia on a Monument from one of the Hikes

Spectacular Scenery at Little Round Top, Gettysburg

Looking out onto the Gettysburg Battlefield from Little Round Top

Gettysburg National Military Park – The First Day of Battle

With over two million annual visitors exploring Gettysburg National Military Park each year, I was surprised to learn that it is the most visited battlefield in the United States.  Referred to as the “Turning Point of the Civil War”, the Battle at Gettysburg was the most costliest battle in regards to the lives lost at war and took place over a short period from July 1st through July 4th in 1863.

The Gettysburg National Military Park was formed in 1895 on the land where the battle was fought as a memorial to honor the Confederate and Union soldiers.  Located in southeast Pennsylvania, the park’s highlight is the 24-miles auto tour which covers the notable events that occurred throughout the conflict.  The tour begins at the Visitor’s Center and takes about three hours to complete with sixteen stops along the route.

Major battles had already been fought during the Civil War when The Battle of Gettysburg commenced.  Confederate troops marched towards Gettysburg along Chambersburg Pike.  Union officer Marcellus Jones would fire the first shot in the bloody battle of Gettysburg, signifying the start of the war.

By 10 AM, Major General John F. Reynolds of the Union Army and his famous “Iron Brigade” arrived at McPherson Ridge, but Reynolds was killed shortly thereafter suffering a gunshot wound to the head.  It was a huge loss for the Union as Reynolds was one of their most experienced leaders.  Reynolds’ men placed his body under a tree which is marked today by a monument on the spot where the general fell.  By the afternoon, a full battle had engaged.

“McPherson Ridge:  The Battle of Gettysburg began at about 8 a.m. to the west beyond the McPherson Barn as Union cavalry confronted Confederate Infantry advancing east along Chambersburg Pike.  Heavy fighting spread north and south along this ridgeline as additional forces from both sides arrived.” –The Auto Tour

On the first day of the conflict, Brigadier General, John Buford of the Union, reinforced three ridges on the west of town in preparation of Confederate General Lee’s attack.  Buford was awaiting the support of additional infantrymen when he was attacked by Lee from the North and Northwest as the Union soldiers quickly retreated to the south.  McPherson Ridge was one of those ridges.

Gettysburg, Pennsylvania became the meeting point between the Union and Confederate Soldiers.  General Lee’s intentions were to draw the Union troops so that he could fight and destroy them.

“The Eternal Light Peace Memorial:  At 1 PM Major General Robert E. Rodes’ Confederates attacked from this hill, threatening Union forces on McPherson and Oak Ridges.  Seventy-five years later, over 1,800 Civil War veterans helped dedicate this memorial to ‘Peace Eternal in a National United’.” – The Auto Tour

Along Oak Ridge, Major General Robert E. Rodes attacked the Union around 2PM.  A large number of casualties resulted in the assault.

“Oak Ridge:  Union soldiers held stubbornly against Rodes’s advance.  By 3:30 p.m., however, the entire Union line from here to McPherson Ridge had begun to crumble, finally falling back to Cemetery Hill.  When the first day ended, the Confederates held the upper hand.  Lee decided to continue the offensive, pitting his 70,000 men army against Meade’s Union army of 93,000.” – The Auto Tour

The Battle at Gettysburg’s first day of conflict ranked as the 23rd largest battle of the Civil War according to the number of troops engaged.  There were 22,000 men engaged under General Meade and 27,000 under the command of General Lee.  The northern troops estimated ten thousand men who were killed or captured while eight thousand were lost in the south.   The Union forces held their own from Cemetery Hill to Little Round Top as the fighting commenced overnight, ending Day One of the war.

Are you interested in the events that took place during the Civil War?  Do you enjoy American History?  I would love to hear about your visit to Gettysburg or recommendations for additional battle sites in the US if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.  Many thanks for reading about my visit to Gettysburg! Check out more Gettysburg with my upcoming posts covering Days Two and Three of the conflict.  Wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Gettysburg National Military Park Museum and Visitor Center
1195 Baltimore Pike
Gettysburg, PA 17325
Telephone: 717 334 1124

  • Admission Fee:  There is no fee charged to enter the Visitor’s center and museum, but there are fees associated with additional activities provided by the park. All activities are free to children ages 5 and under.   To view the 45 minute film narrated by Morgan Freeman, there is a $15 charge for adults (ages 13+) and $10 for children ages 6 – 12.  The museum only experience:  $9 for adults (ages 13+), $7 for children ages 6 – 12.  Guided Bus Tour of the Battlefield: $35 for adults (ages 13+), $21 for children ages 6 – 12;  Eisenhower National Historic Site Tour: $9 for adults (ages 13+), $5 for children ages 6 – 12; The David Wills House:  $7 for adults (ages 13+), $4 for children ages 6 – 12;  NOTE:  Tours of the house are free from June 9 – December 31, 2018. The George Spangler Farm Civil War Field Hospital (open only in summer):  $6 for adults (ages 13+), $2 for children ages 6 – 12.  Visit the website for additional tours which may be available during your visit.
  • Hours: Park grounds and roads:  April 1 – October 31, open from 6 AM to 10 PM; November 1 – March 31, open from 6 AM to 7 PM.  The museum is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM yet closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, New Year’s Day and early closure on Christmas Eve – 2 PM. The Soldier’s National Cemetery is open from dawn to dusk.  Gettysburg Lincoln Railroad Station: November – February: Closed with the exception of holiday dates (see website); March – May open from 10 AM to 5 PM Friday, Saturday and Sunday only; Memorial Day  – Labor Day:  10 AM to 5 PM daily; September – October 10 AM to 5 PM Friday, Saturday and Sunday only.
  • Amenities:  Several tour options, movie at theater, audio guide for scenic drive, hiking, historical reinactments, horseback riding, ranger programs, living history programs and virtual tours and lodging at Bushman House
  • Scenic View: Spectacular views from Little Round Top and observation towers.
  • Length of Visit:  2 – 3 hours or more if you have booked multiple tours.
  • Tips for Your Visit:  Booking a tour is one of the best ways to explore Gettysburg National Military Park. During the auto tour, there are very few restrooms and picnic areas along the route.  There are also no restaurants along the tour, so pack some snacks and water.  Remember that the park is located on hallowed ground and you are asked to treat it with respect.

Where to Stay:

Brickhouse Inn Bed & Breakfast
452 Baltimore Street
Gettysburg, PA  17325
Telephone:  717 338 9337

Located in downtown historic Gettysburg, the B&B is within walking distance to shops, restaurants and museums and nearby Culp’s Hill and the Soldier’s Cemetery.

Where to Eat:

Dobbin House
89 Steinwehr Avenue
Gettysburg, PA  17325
Telephone:  717 334 2100

Gettysburg’s oldest and most historic home, the Dobbin House offers an exceptional dining experience as guests are served by wait staff dressed in period costume.

I started with the shrimp cocktail, served with traditional cocktail sauce.  For my main course, I was drawn to the broiled filet mignon and added a Maryland crabcake to my order.

The Pennsylvania Calvary Monument

Cannons and Fencing at Gettysburg National Military Park

Looking out into the Gettysburg Battlefield

Gettysburg Canon

Spectacular View from Gettysburg Battlefield

One of the Homes in the Middle of the Gettysburg Battlefield

Gettysburg Auto Tour Sign

The Goth Pennsylvania Infantry Monument

Great Smoky Mountain National Park: Visitor Center

Did you know that the Great Smoky Mountain National Park is a World Heritage Site?

These beautiful mountains, known as the Great Smokies, are located in both North Carolina and Tennessee, a part of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and a segment of the Appalachians.  This land, measuring nearly half a million acres, became a national park in 1940 and a UNESCO Heritage Site in 1983.

The national park’s Visitor Center provides an overview of life in the Great Smoky Mountains from its flora and fauna to the wild animals that make their home here.  We decided to make a stop with my nephew, Nolan to learn more about the animals we may encounter during our visit.

The Red Fox resides in the Northern Hemisphere and is one of the largest of all foxes.  Able to adapt in all environments, the red fox is usually found in pairs or in small families feasting on smaller rodents.  They can survive at various elevations. The red fox has a white tip on its tail, a face that resembles a dog. and its legs may me darker than its coat.

The Grey Fox, although similar to the Red Fox, is usually grey in color and is specifically adapted to climb trees to escape predators. Rather than a white tip on their tail, they will have a black stripe down its tail, a strong neck and the face similar to a cat.

I have only seen a mink once in the wild near a wetlands trail.  They are such an elusive creature, growing to be about 12 – 15 inches and weighing a little over 2 pounds. Their coats are brown and may have white markings on their chests and bellies.  They travel independently and find their food near water.  It is certainly an amazing feeling when you see one in the wild.

Bobcats are a rare sight throughout the Smokey Mountains as they are nocturnal and solitary in nature.  Covered in spots, they have stubby tails and short ears and they only grow as long as three feet.  The females give birth to up to six kittens during the winter.

Skunks are the animal that you can smell before you see them due their scent glands, used as a defensive weapon.  Known for their black coat with white stripes, they are in abundance throughout the park while the lesser known skunk is black with white spots.  Skunks give birth to a litter of four to seven babies, usually in the month of May.

While there are populations of wild hogs within the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, they are not often spotted within the mountains. The female will usually have around six piglets in a litter and breed twice a year.

The Woodchuck, or Groundhog, is found in open fields, on the side of the road and streams where they find their food.  They can measure up to 26 inches and weigh between five and 13 pounds.  The females give birth to up to nine babies living up to six years in the wild.

There is an abundance of raccoons within the Great Smoky National Park.  While they may make a rare appearance during the day, they are nocturnal and most active at night. A fully grown raccoon will live up to seven years old and weigh between eight to 14 pounds. Most raccoons live near streams to feed on crayfish and frogs.

Chipmunks are also another Smoky Mountains animal that are easily spotted throughout the park.  On the ground collecting nuts or racing up trees to store them,  Eating nuts, seeds and fruits, they can store their food in their cheek pouches that can reach the size of their bodies when full.

Several species of owls can be found within the Great Smokey National Park.  From the medium-sized barn owl to the smaller great horned owl, they are a rare sighting as they are most active at night.  They feed off of small rodent animals within the park and make their homes in the many trees throughout the park.

What animals did you see while visiting Great Smoky Mountains National Park?  Did you have a favorite one?  I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.  Many thanks for reading about my amazing adventure in the Great Smoky Mountains and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, TN  37738
Telephone:  865 436 1200

Where to Stay:

Firefly Chalet
Highway 321 North
Gatlinburg, TN  37738
Website:  www.vrbo.com

Where to Eat:

Bennett’s Bar-B-Que
2910 Parkway
Pigeon Forge, TN
Telephone:  865 429 2200

What to Eat:

  • Barbecue

Frank Lloyd Wright’s Fallingwater: An Architectural Marvel

 

Entrance to Fallingwater

Frank Lloyd Wright’s designs have had an eminent impact on architecture today.  Although he created over 1,000 commercial and residential blueprints, only half of his ideas were ever constructed.  Considered the father of “organic architecture”, some of his distinguished masterpieces are open to the public, including one of his most notable achievements, Fallingwater.

Having a limited knowledge about Wright and his architectural genius, I set aside some time to learn more about the history and design of this summer home that was built for department store magnate, Edgar Kaufmann and his family.

View from Stop on the Path

When I arrived at the entrance to Fallingwater, I parked the car and made my way to the Visitor’s Center.  My initial plan was to take some photos of the home and then drive towards Rickett’s Glen for an afternoon of hiking.  It wasn’t until I overheard that Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie had recently booked the site for a private tour, I became a little more intrigued and decided to buy a ticket nevertheless….silly I know, but I am so glad that I did, whatever the reason.

Fallingwater Pathway

I just happened to tag along with a group who would be leaving in about 15 minutes.  I soon learned that tours book up quickly and purchasing them in advance is highly recommended.  I couldn’t believe my luck!  The guide escorted us up the quarter of a mile trail that led to the home where the tour would begin.

Another view of Entrance fountain

Fallingwater is a perfect example of Wright’s trademark style of seamlessly incorporating the aspects of architecture into its natural surroundings.  Prior to entering the home, there is a small, Zen-like fountain at the entryway that sets the tone for the tour.  The unique stonework frames a narrow doorway that leads up to the main living quarters.  It is from this point forward that cameras are not permitted.

Amazing Use of Steel...so natural

Frank Lloyd Wright had already established himself as a renowned architect when Fallingwater was under construction in the late 1930’s.  It was Kaufmann’s son that would be instrumental in the building of the family’s second home.  He had been a long time admirer of Wright’s work and encouraged his father to contact Wright to design and construct their summer house located in Mill Run, Pennsylvania outside of Pittsburgh.

Once the home was completed, it instantly drew attention when it appeared on the cover of Time magazine in 1938.  It has been considered one of Wright’s most monumental accomplishments and may be one of his most familiar.

Larger View of Outdoor Living Space, Fallingwater

The informative tour centered on all of the living spaces of the home, which took a little over an hour.  I had plenty of time to explore the exterior grounds at my leisure and take some photos of the house from various angles.  It was not difficult to notice that the living quarters seem to be suspended over the 30 foot waterfall below without any support.  Frank Lloyd Wright’s ability to make use of a cantilever system intensified the mystique of his construction and minimized unnecessary obstruction of the surrounding landscape.

Stairs to the Falls, Fallingwater

The focal point of Fallingwater is the sizeable waterfall that flows below the property. Frank Lloyd Wright was interested in incorporating the natural falls into the home so that it could be “a part of the family’s everyday life.” A set of red steel stairs lead down to the water from one of the main outdoor living areas, but from this vantage point, the waterfall is difficult to see.

Fountain Entrance at Fallingwater

Frank Lloyd Wright built the home using local Pottsville sandstone from a nearby quarry.  Wright selected his signature Cherokee Red as the color for the steel to add depth to the ochre concrete used throughout the home.

Until 1963, the Kaufmanns used the property as their weekend home.  Edgar Kaufmann, Jr., decided to donate the home to the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy so that the property could be accessible to the public as a museum.  It is estimated that over 120,000 visitors tour the home and the grounds on an annual basis.

Baby Bird in Nest at Fallingwater

I thoroughly enjoyed my visit to Fallingwater.  Frank Lloyd Wright’s dynamic ability to consider his surroundings in his designs are what make him unique and a pioneer in modern architecture.  As I spent time walking, I wondered what elements of the property inspired Frank Lloyd Wright, knowing his deep love and appreciation for nature.

It was then that I heard a faint chirp of a little bird and noticed him on the ledge above me.  As I spotted this nestling so perfectly situated between the sandstone, I knew that at this moment, Frank Lloyd Wright would have been inspired.

Are you a fan of architecture and have a favorite architect? Have you visited other Frank Lloyd Wright homes? I would love to hear your experience if you would kindly leave a comment below!  Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Fallingwater
1491 Mill Run Road
Mill Run, PA  15464
Telephone: 724 329 8501

  • Admission Fee:  Guided house tours are $30 for adults and $18 for Youth ages 6 – 12; grounds passes are $10 and available at the gate; landscape hike is $12 per person; In-depth tours are available for $80 ages 9 and up; Sunset tours and Brunch tours are $150 per person;
  • Hours:  Daily from 10AM to 6PM
  • Amenities:  Falllingwater Café, bookstore, guided tours, restrooms at the visitor center only
  • Scenic View:  Splendid view of Fallingwater with the falls located beneath the home.
  • Length of Visit:  1 – 2 hours
  • Tips for Your Visit:  Advance ticket purchase is essential for all tours by purchasing online or by phone at 724 329 8501.  Purchase tickets a minimum of two weeks prior to your visit during the busy months of July, August and October. Specialty tours (Brunch and Sunset) sell out early in the season. Allow at least 15 additional minutes for travel due to rural winding roads. No public transportation is provided to Fallingwater. Wear comfortable shoes as there is a considerable amount of walking. Children under six years old not permitted on tour. Photography is not permitted inside of Fallingwater. The best time to visit is late June through early July when the rhododendron bloom.

Where to Stay:

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Donegal
3695 Route 31 East
Donegal, PA  15628
Toll Free Number:  877 859 5095

Upscale Resort:
Nemacolin Woodlands Resort & Spa
1001 Lafayette Drive
Farmington, PA  15437
Toll Free Number 866 344 6957

Where to Eat:

Fallingwater Cafe

Fallingwater has its own cafe which offers delicious sandwiches, salads, fruits and homemade desserts.

Bittersweet Cafe
209 Farmington-Ohiopyle Road
Farmington, PA 15437
Phone Number: 724 329 4411

I highly recommend the Cuban sandwich at this amazing farm-to-table cafe! Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, this eatery is perfect for a quick bite and checking out the antique shop on the premises!

What to Eat: 

  • Pretzels were brought to Pennsylvania by the German settlers.
  • Philly Cheesesteaks are sandwiches made of strips of steak topped with Cheez Whiz and onion.
  • The Banana Split is said to have been invented in Latrobe, Pennsylvania
  • Hershey’s Kisses
  • Lebanon Bologna made by the Pennsylvania Dutch
  • Apple Butter produced by the Pennsylvania Dutch
  • Utz potato chips
  • Tastycakes
  • Heinz Ketchup
  • Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups
  • Twizzlers
  • Chocolate
  • Scrapple is a meat loaf made of pork scraps and cornmeal.
  • The Arnold Palmer is a drink made of half tea and half lemonade.
  • Pot Pie is another contribution by the Pennsylvania Dutch.
  • Root Beer was invented by Charles Elmer Hires of Philadelphia, PA.
  • Philadelphia Pepper Pot Soup was served at Valley Forge during the Revolutionary War.
  • Funnel cakes
  • Stromboli
  • Shoofly Pie is a pie with the main ingredient of molasses
  • Whoopie Pies are cake cookies with a cream filling
  • Peeps

What to Read:

  • Fallingwater, A Frank Lloyd Wright Country House  by Edgar Kauffman, Jr.
  • Fallingwater: The Building of Frank Lloyd Wright’s Masterpiece by Marc Harshman, Anna Egan Smucker, LeUyen Pham
  • Fallingwater Rising by Franklin Toker

For additional information and sights to see in Pennsylvania, check out the following links!

A Hike of Waterfalls:  Rickett’s Glen, Pennsylvania

The Hatteras and Ocracoke Ferries

Cruising towards the island of  Ocracoke, the ferry is surrounded by an aggressive flock of seagulls.  The sea salt spray fills the air as the birds scavenge around for leftover food and fish churned up from the underside of the commuter boat.

The roundtrip Hatteras/Ocracoke route is the most popular of the seven itineraries that operates along the Carolina coastline. Lasting 45 minutes, the ferry transports bikes, cars, trucks and passengers on foot, 365 days a year, free of charge. During the summer season, the ferry runs ever 30 minutes starting at 5 AM in the morning until midnight. Wait times for the ferry can run from 15 minutes to several hours depending on the time of the year and is on a first come, first serve basis. Trips to Ocracoke Island from the mainland are also accessible from both the Cedar Island and Swan Quarter ferries.

Nearby the Hatteras Ferry terminal is the Hatteras Landing shopping center with a convenience store and deli as well as trendy boutiques and a surf shop.  Popular food stands provide plenty of options for grabbing a convenient meal before catching the boat ride over to the island.

For those with limited time, there are vending machines at the Visitor’s Center, where tourists can also pick up information about the island’s attractions.

At Hatteras Village, watch the fishermen bring in their day’s catch in the afternoon to have it weighed and cleaned.  There are fabulous seafood restaurants at The Harbors as well as spectacular waterfront views.

Once the ferry arrives at the terminal on Ocracoke Island, there is a 13-mile drive to reach Ocracoke Village.  Sand dunes provide a buffer between the beaches and the byway with plenty of beach access for the day.

Compared to the Hatteras Terminal, the Ocracoke Ferry Terminal is more primitive and simple with only a vending machine for snacks and basic restroom facilities.   A beach is within walking distance and can be accessed by one of three paths along the sound.

No reservations are required to ride the Ocracoke Ferry as it is a first come, first served facility.  There is no charge for the ride which runs 365 days per year, depending on the weather.  Vehicle parking is clearly marked  and visitors can leave their car and stroll around the terminal and nearby beach.  The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) recommends that passengers prepare to board the ferry by waiting inside of their vehicle 10 minutes before the time of departure.

The NCDOT provides a list of tips for traveling the Hatteras/Ocracoke ferries.

  • Avoid Tuesdays – Thursdays which are the most popular days during the summer.  Prime hours are considered 9 AM to 5 PM where waits can take up to several hours.
  • Visit Ocracoke Island in the evening and make plans to travel to Hatteras in the morning.  The shops in Ocracoke stay open late, closing around sunset or later.
  • Be ready to board the ferry 5 – 10 minutes prior to departure so you don’t miss the boat!
  • Smoking is not permitted on the ferry, including in your car.  Passengers may be fined if they disregard this rule.
  • Feeding the seagulls is not permitted.
  • Pets must be kept on a leash while riding the ferry.
  • The NCDOT reserves the right to check your driver’s license before boarding.  This is part of the Homeland Security program.
  • Priority passage lanes for those who have a priority pass.  No exceptions!
  • The last ferry from Hatteras Island or Ocracoke is 12:00 AM.  Don’t miss the boat!
  • The ferry terminal reserves the right to postpone or cancel ferry service due to extreme weather conditions, such as high winds.
  • The most scenic time  to take the ferry is at sunset or sunrise.

During our vacations to the Outer Banks, our family has continued  the tradition of taking the Hatteras to Ocracoke Ferry to explore the island.   The look on the children’s faces as we drive our cars on the ramp is an enjoyable moment.  They love the seagulls and feeling the sea mist upon their faces.  You can’t beat the price and experience of this entertaining mode of transportation and the memories that are made are forever priceless.

Have you had the opportunity to visit Okracoke Island by taking the Hatteras Ferry?  What are some of your most cherished memories of your visit?  I would love to hear from you if you would kindly leave your comments below.  Many thanks for reading about my wonderful memories of the Outer Banks and wishing you many Happy Travels!

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Bodie Island Lighthouse, Outer Banks, North Carolina

Driving south towards Ocracoke on Highway 12, I caught a glimpse of the Bodie (pronounced “Body”) Island Lighthouse in the distance.  I was halfway there, but decided to take the side road to have a closer look.  Towering over 156 feet, there are 214 steps to reach the top with spectacular views of the Albemarle Sound, the Oregon Inlet and the Atlantic Ocean.  The lighthouse recently reopened in 2014 after an extensive renovation and is the third lighthouse to stand in this place.

Bodie Light initially opened in 1872, under the recommendation of Lieutenant Napoleon L. Coste who was tasked with deciding the placement of lighthouses along the North Carolina Coast.  It was his opinion during his 1837 examination that “more vessels are lost there than on any other part of our coast” resulting in Congress’s decision to allocate funds to the project.

Unfortunately, the first lighthouse built on the site met with many challenges from the purchasing of the land and lack of experience to complete the project.  At 54 feet in height, the initial lighthouse was not only leaning, it would have cost more for the repairs than to start from the ground up.  This lighthouse project was abandoned in 1859.  That same year, a second lighthouse was constructed in close proximity to the first light reaching 80 feet in height.  Unfortunately, with the start of the Civil War, Confederate troops destroyed the lighthouse in fear that Union soldiers would use it in battle.

The lighthouse that stands today on the 15-acre site is north of the original lighthouses and was completed in 1872.  Surrounded by saltwater ponds, marshlands and maritime forest, it too had its problems as geese were known to have been flying into the lens and adequate grounding had not been installed to absorb the electric from lightning strikes.

The lightkeeper’s quarters was completed in 1872 as well, but due to its isolating location, the family lived off site during the cold winter months.  Eventually, there would be an improvement to access on the island and the families would live at the Keepers’ Quarters year around.   Once the light was electrified in 1932, the former keeper’s quarters was eventually converted into the visitor’s center.  Public tours of the lighthouse are permitted each year by purchasing tickets online.

Have you visited the Bodie Island Lighthouse?  Did you climb to the top to see the spectacular views?  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 visit to Bodie Island Lighthouse and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Bodie Island Lighthouse
8210 Bodie Island Lighthouse Road
Nags Head, NC 27959
Telephone:  252 441 5711

  • Admission Fee:  There is a fee for climbing Bodie Lighthouse:  $10 for adults (13+) and $5 for children 12 and under.
  • Hours:  Visitor’s Center open daily from 9AM to 5PM, with the exception to Christmas; Bodie Island Lighthouse Climbing;  Open 3rd Friday in April through Columbus Day
  • Amenities:  visitor center, lighthouse climb
  • Scenic View: Spectacular views of the Hatteras coastline from the top of the lighthouse
  • Length of Visit:  less than 1 hour
  • Tips for Your Visit:  Wear comfortable shoes and be careful climbing the lighthouse

Where to Stay:

Scarborough Inn
524 US-64
Manteo, NC  27954
Telephone:    252 473 3979

Where to Eat:

Fish Heads Bar & Grill
8901 S. Old Oregon Inlet Road
Nags Head, NC  27959
Telephone:  252 441 5740

What more can you want?  Ocean views, seafood and a variety of craft beers?  Starting with the conch fritters, I enjoyed the light breading on the outside, yummy conch on the inside with a side of Napoleon Complex Pale Ale from Wicked Weed Brewing in Ashville, NC.  For my main meal, I decided on the crabcake without the bun and it was prepared perfectly!  I ordered the Pineapple Cider from Austin Eastciders Collaboratory from Austin, Texas, which had a refreshing tropical taste.

What to Eat: 

  • Crab Benedict at Sam and Ornies on Nag’s Head
  • Frogmore Stew Steamer Bucket from Armstrong’s Seafood in Nag’s Head
  • Donuts at Duck Donuts
  • Carolina Barbecue at Pigman’s BBQ on Nag’s Head

What to Read: 

  • Hatteras Blue, by David Poyer
  • Early from the Dance, by David Payne
  • Surf Men by C.T. Marshall
  • Murder at Hatteras by Joe C. Ellis
  • Return to the Outer Banks by Diann Ducharme

Photo Guide for the Outer Banks

  • Pea Island Wildlife Refuge for capturing local birds
  • Jennette’s Pier to photograph local fishermen and beautiful sunrises
  • Ocracoke Horses
  • Triangle Shipwreck at Kill Devils Hill
  • Shipwreck artifacts at Seagreen Gallery
  • The Cape Hatteras lighthouse at Cape Hatteras
  • Elizabethan Gardens in Manteo

San Francisco’s Iconic Golden Gate Bridge

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Whether it is the Arch of St. Louis, the Alamo in San Antonio, or the Space Needle in Seattle, very few iconic images compare with the glorious representation of a city than San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge.

It is impossible to imagine San Francisco without thinking of its spectacular bridge.  Regardless of the number of times I travel to San Fran, I am not satisfied until I drive over it or walk the span for breathtaking views of the city.   Once the largest suspension bridge in the world, visitors can walk, bike, drive or ride over the two-mile platform that connects the city of San Francisco to Marin County.

It was an overcast day on my last visit, but I layered up and made sure I would be comfortable for a stroll across.

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The Golden Gate Bridge was not named for its color but for the strait that it spans,  Opening in May of 1937, this steel suspension bridges retains a main span measuring 4,200 feet.

As cars drove across the bridge during my walk, I could hear the whirring sound of the tires and the hollow thumps from the grates that offer views into the water below.

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The men who designed the bridge were Joseph Strauss, Irving Morrow, and Charles Ellis.  But it was Joseph Strauss, a graduate of the University of Cincinnati, who provided oversight for the day-to-day construction of the bridge beginning in January of 1933.

It is said that Strauss became fascinated by bridges during a hospitalization in Cincinnati.  With a view of the John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge from his hospital room, he would later be employed by a company that specialized in building them.

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The view of the bridge from the southeast side visitor parking lot shows the roadway straight through to the other side.  The visitor’s center, gardens and café are accessible from this lot and it is a great starting point for enjoying scenic overlooks and vistas.

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The Golden Gate Bridge is open 24 hours a day and it is estimated that approximately 110,000 vehicles travel over the bridge on a daily basis.   That does not include the 10,000 pedestrians and 6,000 cyclists that cross as well.

Tolls are only collected in one direction as you head into San Francisco from Marin County.  There is a toll charge of $7.25 for 2 axles and motorcycles (as of this writing).

Enjoy the San Francisco rite of passage by walking or biking the Golden Gate Bridge and you will see San Francisco from a whole new perspective.

Have you visited San Francisco and was the Golden Gate Bridge on your itinerary?  How did you cross it?  I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.  Many thanks for reading about my short post about the Golden Gate Bridge!  Wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Golden Gate Bridge
P.O. Box 9000, Presidio Station
San Francisco, CA 94129-0601
Telephone:  877 229 8655 or 415 486 8655

  • Admission Fee:   Walk or bike the Golden Gate Bridge at no charge.  There is a fee to travel by car, so check the website for the most recent information.
  • Hours:   The Golden Gate Bridge is open 24 hours, seven days a week.
  • Amenities:  Parking, welcome center, cafe, bookstore, historical site
  • Scenic View:  From several vantage points from the Golden Gate Bridge, explore the Pacific Ocean and surrounding mountains.
  • Length of Visit:  1 – 5 hours depending on how you explore the park
  • Tips for Your Visit:  Access the bridge from both the north and south.   Where comfortable shoes for walking across the bridge.  The six lanes for cars is tight, so be mindful of other drivers and keep your eyes on the road.

Where to Stay:

Sheraton Palace Hotel, now The Palace Hotel
2 New Montgomery Street
San Francisco, CA  94105
Telephone:  415 512 1111

Where to Eat:

  • Castagnola’s – The restaurant is known for its soups served in bread bowls.  Select the clam chowder bread bowl or the lobster bisque bread bowl.
  • Ghirardelli Chocolate Company – The world famous hot fudge sundae is the best seller.

Where to Drink: 

  • Iron Horse – Their signature drinks include the James Bond Martini, Goldfinger, Alice in Wonderland, Tiki Temple and Happy Fortune.

What to Read: 

  • Cool Grey City of Love by Gary Kamiya
  • San Francisco Stories by Jack London
  • Zodiac by Robert Graysmith
  • Alcatraz-1259 by William Baker

Photo Guide for San Francisco: 

  • Aquatic Park is the best place to photograph San Francisco’s waterfront
  • Broadway Street in North Beach for its neon signs and was formerly known as the area’s “red light district”
  • Chinatown is absolutely amazing for taking photos of America’s oldest Chinatown.
  • Coit Tower for 360 degree views of San Francisco and the harbor
  • de Young Museum Observation Deck located at Golden Gate Park is perfect for panoramic photos of the city.  Bypass the line to enter the museum to reach the Hamon Observation Tower to take your photos.
  • Fort Point is a decommissioned military base on the waterfront which provides outstanding views of San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge
  • The Marin Headlands is one of the best places to photograph the San Francisco Golden Gate Bridge
  • Treasure Island for spectacular views of San Francisco’s skyline
  • See the entire city of San Francisco from Twin Peaks

The Petrified Forest National Park is a Scientific Phenomenon

Looking out into the Petrified Forest

Located in northeastern Arizona, the Petrified Forest National Park hosts over 800,000 visitors each year.  Words cannot explain this surreal environment where scattered logs cover 170 square miles. I wasn’t quite sure what to expect on my visit, but what I witnessed was truly an interesting phenomenon.

Throughout the park, fragments of wood seem to have been strewn about for no apparent reason. At first glance, it seems impossible to understand exactly what took place here but scientists seem to have an explanation.  They believe that the area was once abundant with trees which had become fossilized and learned that there were other fossils to be found.  Paleontologists have been studying this area unearthing such fossils as large amphibians, phytosaurs (reptiles), Buettneria (amphibians) and early dinosaurs.

And if the geology of the park is not fascinating enough, there is also evidence of human life with over 600 archaeological sites and petroglyphs.  The petroglyphs are dated between 650 to 2000 years old.

Although seemingly barren, the park is also home to a number of protected mammals which include bobcats, coyotes, black-tailed jackrabbits, prairie dogs, foxes, squirrels, mule deer and pronghorn as well as deer mice.

000 Petrified Forest

I suppose the biggest question is, how did the wood become petrified.  Most of the explanations that I found in my research were way above my head, so I am making an attempt to explain it in laymen’s terms.  Throughout the area there were river channels in the park.  Trees that grew up near the channels, fell down, and ended up in the water.  Over time and on several occasions, residue that contained volcanic ash would bury these trees.  The water would dissolve the silica (silicon dioxide, a chemical) from the ash and would end up inside of the logs.  From here, the silica would form quartz crystals that would replace the living parts of the inside of the tree.  Some of this material would also remain on the outer layer of the tree, giving it its fossilized exterior.  Other substances, such as iron oxide would combine with the silica to create the various colors that appear in the petrified wood.

In addition to learning more about the Petrified Forest, there are many activities available for visitors in the park to include hiking and backpacking,  photography, sightseeing and driving through the park. There are seven hiking trails that range from a half a mile to close to three miles in length.  The trails are named Agate House, Blue Mesa, Crystal Forest, Giant Logs, Long Logs, Painted Desert Rim and Puerco Pueblo.

While humans are the major threat to the park, there are strict rules and warnings for the removal of petrified wood.  It is estimated by the park service that approximately “12 short tons of the fossil wood is stolen from the Petrified Forest each year”.  It would be a shame for future generations to miss out on such an interesting site, but lucky for us, the park was designated a National Park in 1962.

Have you visited the Petrified Forest?  What did you think of it?  I would love to hear about your experience in the comments section below!  Many Thanks and Happy Travels!

To further plan your visit to Petrified Forest National Park,  visit their website at https://www.nps.gov/pefo/index.htm.  It is open every day of the year with the exception of Christmas, but has a variation in its schedule depending on the time that you visit.  Information about the Painted Desert is available at this website as well.

What to See and What to Do:

Petrified Forest
1 Main Street
Petrified Forest, AZ  86031

  • Admission Fee:  Petrified Forest Entrance fees:  $20 for auto seven-day pass; $10 per person arriving by bike; $15 flat fee for motorcycle; annual pass is $40.
  • Hours:  The park is open daily with the exception of Christmas Day.  From September 15 – April 13:  8AM to 5PM; from April 14 to May 11:  7AM to 7PM; from May 12 to August 3: from 7AM to 7:30PM; from August 4 to August 31: from 7AM to 7PM and from September 1 to September 14:  from 7AM to 6PM.
  • Amenities:  Museum and bookstore
  • Length of Visit:  2 – 3 hours
  • Scenic View:  Photograph the colorful desert and petrified forest during the golden hours for spectacular photos
  • Tips for Your Visit:  Bring water and sunscreen as the site is in the middle of the desert.  Check out the petroglyphs and eight of the sites that are located on the National Register and don’t forget to make a stop at the Visitor’s Center for souvenirs, exhibits and other amenities.  A schedule of tours is also available at the Visitor’s Center.  You can easily find Petrified Forest National Park along I-40. Don’t forget that your entrance fee also includes the Painted Desert!

Where to Stay:

La Posada Hotel & Gardens
303 E. 2nd Street (Route 66)
Winslow, AZ  86047
Telephone:  928 289 4366

Where to Eat:

Fred Harvey Diner
1 Main Street
Petrified Forest National Park, AZ  86028

Order the Navajo taco….it is huge!

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!

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