Wildfires

Jeremiah asked:


Glacier National Park which is almost one and a half million acres is quite impressive and boasts more than 200 streams and lakes, 50 glaciers and over 700 miles of superb hiking trails. Although, these numbers are notable, they hardly describe the breathtaking beauty of Glacier National Park.

Glacier National Park is quite popular as it offers one of the best hiking opportunities in the world. At Glacier National Park, you will be able to find pristine alpine lakes that are set against majestic mountain peaks. Goats, bears, elk, bighorn sheep, black bear, golden eagles, wolverine and many more share this part of the world along with you. Moreover, there are also great wildflowers, waterfalls, mountains, Glaciers, and more then 700 miles of well maintained trails for hiking.

Glacier National Park hiking can make a backpacker’s dream come true. The time from July to mid October is the main hiking season whereas outside this time, the trails can be restricted by snow. The greatest scenic hikes in the Glacier Park are the ones that actually take you to the highest. There are also a couple of trails that connect two areas and hence allowing you to hike backwards and forwards.

So, if you are planning for adventurous hiking trips, you can visit the visitor centers in St. Mary, Apgar or Logan Pass where you can collect some excellent books on hiking guides. Driving through the famous Going-To-The-Sun Road that is 50 miles long can offer you many different and attractive sights of the Glacier National park. This 50 mile Going-To-The-Sun Road was built in early 1932 on the skirts around MacDonald Lake prior to crossing the Continental Divide on the Logan Pass which is some 6,700 feet on top of sea level.

If you are looking out to go for some hiking then you would be glad to know that there are a number of options available. The area close to Belly River provides some magnificent scenery and several campsites where you can take some rest. Glacier Park hiking can provide you with a completely different experience which you would have never had in your life.

Hole in the wall campground is another great site that offers more than 20 waterfalls and thousands of attractive wildflowers. Looking upwards, you will be able to see the water coming from a waterfall that pours out from a natural hole thus giving the area its name. Glacier hiking is very popular and allows visitors to enjoy a memorable and adventurous trip.

Bicycling in the Glacier National Park, whitewater rafting, skiing and snowshoeing etc are some other things that you can do in the park. Some popular hiking trails include hidden lake, Iceberg Lake, Grinnell glacier, Piegan pass, swiftcurrent lookout, highline trail, Cracker Lake and Ptarmigan tunnel. There are many Glacier National Park Hiking trips that are recommended. So, if you want to enjoy the hiking trails in the Glacier National Park, opting for these recommended glacier hiking trips can be a wise decision.



REID

Alisha Singh asked:




Ranthambore National Park

situated in the district of Sawai-Madhopur, Ranthambore National park was set up in 1955, at the function of Aravalis and Vindhyas covering an area of 392sq.km. The nearest town and the railhead from the park is Sawaimadhopur. The nearest airport is Jaipur at a distance of 132km.

The land consists both of steep slopes and gently rolling plateau on the hill top. The forests are dry deciduous dominated by dhok trees interspersed with grasslands. There are scattered pools to provide water to the wild animals. The well forested park harbours diverse fauna which include tiger, leopard, wild boar, caracal, sloth bear, ratel, hyena, civet, jungle cat, sambar, chinkara, nilgai, four-horned antelope, python,  cobra, crocodile, partridge, green pigeon, red spur fowl, peafowl, parakeet, teal etc.

Sariska National Park

Sariska Tiger Reserve is well nestled in the Aravali Hills covering 800 sq km area divided into the grasslands, dry deciduous forests, sheer cliffs and rocky landscape. Nearly 90% of the area in the sanctuary is covered with dhok trees accommodating various wildlife species.

It is located in the contemporary Alwar district and is the legacy of the Maharajas of Alwar. Pavilions and Temples within Sariska are ruins that hint at past riches and glory.

Bharatpur Bird Sanctury

Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary/Keoladeo Ghana National Park is located in Rajasthan state of India. It is one of the finest bird sanctuaries/parks in the world. Besides a number of birds, the Bharatpur bird sanctuary/national park offers protection to various animal species as well. The bird sanctuary is home to numerous indigenous water birds as well as migratory birds and also inhabited by Sambar, Chital, Nilgai and Boar.

Read more about famous wildlife parks of India - http://www.travellinginindia.com/rajasthan/



REUBEN

Jeremiah asked:


Located in the state of Montana, Glacier National Park comprises of two mountain ranges. Sprinkled in between the large mountains are more than 130 named lakes. Hundreds of species of animals are present in Glacier National Park which covers a total area of 16,000 mi² (44,000 km²). Home to 1,100 different vascular plants species, the vast and pristine eco system of Glacier National offers unmatched visual treat to the visitors.

Glacier helicopter tours offer the best views

In such a dynamic national park it is difficult to envision the whole natural beauty from a low height. By going for a Glacier helicopter tour you can enjoy a bird’s view of the serene national park.

Enjoy safe adventure with Glacier National Park helicopter tours

Glacier National Park helicopter tours are operated by professional who are trained and have obtained expertise in flying helicopters in the area through years of experience. Thus, when you opt for Glacier Park helicopter tours you can have a safe trip and enjoy the adventure of flying in a helicopter.

Observe wild life by going on Glacier helicopter tours

Apart from the 360 degree view of the almost 100 years old world heritage site you can also observe the wild life flying high in air. While taking you on a Glacier helicopter tour, the helicopter operator maintains a good distance. Thus the natural life in the park remains unaffected and you can pleasurably view the details of the wild life in the area using a pair of telescope.

On your next visit to the Glacier National Park, don’t forget to go on a helicopter trip.



TRAVIS

Alisha Singh asked:


Popular National Park of India

Ranthambore National Park

Ranthambore National Park is a fascinating blend of history and nature. Inside the park is a formidable fort that was built in the 10th century and coveted by many rulers due to its strategic position between north and central India.

The park itself is situated at the joining of the Vindhya Plateau and the Aravalli Hills, and is characterized by rocky plains and steep cliffs. It supports a diverse range of flora and fauna, including around 30 tigers.

Nagarhole National Park

Nagarhole National Park is located about 96 kilometres from Mysore in Karnataka. The park, which is home to a large number of birds and animals, is part of the Mudumalai Sanctuary. The Nagarhole National Park has derived its name from two Kannada words ‘Naga’, which means snake and ‘Hole, which means streams. The park shares its boundary with Bandipur National Park.

Sariska National Park

Located in Alwar district, Sariska National Park is situated in the Aravali Hills. This sanctuary covers around eight hundred sq km area, which include deciduous forests which are dry, grasslands, landscapes which are rocky, and cliffs. Besides wildlife watching, Sariska National Park is also the ideal place to go for camel safaris or visiting some medieval palaces. Sariska was given the sanctuary status in the year 1955 and attained the grade of a National Park in 1979.

Periyar National Park

Situated within the confines of the Western Ghats in the southern Indian state of Kerala, Periyar National Park Kerala and Tiger Reserve is one of the most captivating wildlife parks in the world. Elephant in Periyar is another major attraction. In 1895, the British undertook water resource management plans for the area and started work on a dam and an artificial lake under the auspices of Col. J. Pennycuick.

Panna National Park

The Panna National Park is sited at length of approximately 57 kilometers from the evergreen venue of the Khajuraho and hence situated in the central realm of the state of Madhya Pradesh. The Panna National Park cherishes the reputation of being one of the most popular reserves in India that is engaged in the protection of the charismatic emperor of all the animals, the tiger. Other attractions at the Panna National Park include the pristine deer and the mysterious antelopes.

Please visit http://www.wild-india.com for more information.



HARRISON

Morgan asked:


Grand Canyon national park in United States is one of the UNESCO world heritage sites and is located entirely in Northern Arizona. This place is one of the most famous tourist destinations of the world. The canyon is an exciting and adventurous experience. You’ll be mesmerized to see the sight of such a huge Canyon.

There are a number of RV parks and campgrounds in and near Grand Canyon National Park. RV camping is one of the best ways to enjoy the scenic landscape of Grand Canyon.

Some of the best RV campgrounds in Grand Canyon National Park are:

1. Grand Canyon/Desert View

This campground has a lot to offer to its tourists. Some of its striking features are 50 pull-thrus, pets on leash, tenting facility, restrooms, payphones and Waste dump. This campground is nearby Grand Canyon Village.

2. Grand Canyon/North Rim

This is one of the best campgrounds of this place. It features 83 pull-thrus, rooms for slide-outs and Bryce Canyon National Park is located just a few minutes away. Some of the basic amenities they provide are restrooms, payphones, tenting services, waste dump, laundry, restaurant and showers.

3. Grand Canyon Railway RV Park

These RV parks are the most popular destinations in Arizona. They have all state-of-the-art facilities to offer to its visitors. Whether you are in a couple or in a family this Park offers you everything you need for an unforgettable experience.

4. Bright Angel Campground

This campground is located on the River Colorado’s north shore. The three trails the River trail, the South Kaibab trail and the North Kaibab trail all converge below this campground. The phantom ranch is just half-mile to the north. This place boasts of its lovely surroundings and the presence of Colorado River makes this place absolute paradise to visit. The campground entails a washroom and a ranger station.

5. Kaibab Camper Village

The place is just 1 mile south west of Jacob Lake Inn. This is the closest full hook-up campground to the Grand Canyon National Park. Horseback riding and great hiking are some of the great features of this place. There is a newly restored Ranger Cabin that offers various interpretive programs, arranged by the Forest Service. People here enjoy calmness of pine trees. The camper store has a huge selection of grocery items, souvenirs and RV parts.

These are some of the best RV campgrounds in Grand Canyon National Park. Make sure you visit them on your next trip to Arizona!



VICTOR

Lisa Khajavi asked:


Tortuguero National Park is the entrance way to one of the most ecological diverse displays of flora and fauna in Costa Rica boasting a waterway of famed beauty. It is also the most important area in the western Caribbean for turtle preservation, as it is here where the Green Turtle (Chelonia Mydas) and others come to lay their eggs. Protecting marine turtles was a principal reason for the creation of the park, for its black-sand beaches are also nesting grounds for the gigantic Leatherback Turtle (Dermochelys Coriacea), the attractive Hawksbill Turtle (Eretmochelys Imbricata) and the brown-colored Loggerhead Turtle (Caretta Caretta).

Located in Costa Rica’s northern Caribbean region, just 80 kilometers north of the city of Limón, this protected wildlife area was created in 1975. The park is comprised of a network of natural and navigable canals and lagoons of grand beauty that cross the park in a Southeast to Northeast direction. They are home to species such as Manatees (Trichechus Manatus) and Crocodiles (Crocodylus acutus); fish oddities like the Tropical Gar (Atractosteus Tropicus), which is considered a living fossil; and amazing birds like the Great Blue Heron (Ardea Herodias), the largest of its kind found in the country, and the Northern Jacana (Jacana Spinosa), famous in the animal kingdom for it is the female that defends her family’s territory while the male takes care of their hatchlings.

The park encompasses itself covers an extension of 26,156 hectares of solid ground and approximately 50,160 hectares of marine territory. It presents a vast diversity of ecosystems, among which the most noted are swamp and marsh lands leading to extremely humid forest habitats that house an abundance of tree life of great ecological value. Standouts include Crabwoods (Carapa Guianensis); Banaks (Virola), which are recognized for their golden fruit; and the illustrious Swamp Palms (Raphia Taedigera), whose leaves can reach up to 15 meters in length and can be found lining the canals and tinting their waters black due to the plant’s high tannin content.

In general, the park’s rich species content can be appreciated in the more than 400 kinds of trees, around 2,200 varieties of plants and 405 types of birds, the latter amounting to half of all existing bird species of Costa Rica and more than can be found in all of Europe. This vast diversity is present in the amphibian, reptilian, fish and insect populations of the region.

Tortuguero also presents a vast cultural richness. Its Caribbean location makes it one of the main centers of the Afro-Caribbean culture in our country. A large portion of the local population is of Jamaican descent and conserves the traditions, food and many religious believes of their ancestors. Their dishes are spicy, with coconut serving as a base ingredient in most recipes. One of the most popular is the ‘Rondon’, a tasty fish and vegetable stew made with fresh coconut milk. There is no lack of restaurants and small eateries in the town of Tortuguero, which also features traditional Costa Rican food.

Getting to Tortuguero: NatureAir’s scenic half -hour flight is a great way to soak in incredible views, including spectacular sightings of turtles in the ocean. Tortuguero’s airstrip is closed temporarily due to improvements being made, and in the meantime the alternate airstrip of Barra del Colorado is being used. The route by ground is also very scenic and a great adventure by land and sea, or land and river. The wildlife along the way is abundant and definitely a worthwhile part of the experience.

Lodging: A number of hotels surround the canals and offer packages that include transportation from San José, lodging, food and the entrance fee to the park, plus a guided tour of the canals. The wonderful Manatus Lodge offers an elegant experience with delicious cuisine. The tour to watch marine turtles in action during nesting season (June to October) is amazing and often offered separately. An additional hiking tour up the Cerro Tortuguero is also available, featuring a spectacular view of the canals and adjacent flat lands.

Several local restaurants and a quaint marine turtle museum are found in the town of Tortuguero itself. The cost of visiting the museum is by donation, with the goal of supporting the investigations of the Caribbean Conservation Corporation, which studies the reptiles of Tortuguero. The turtle tours are limited and done very carefully at night with special lights in small groups as to not disturb the nesting patterns of these magnificent creatures.

The nature and culture of Tortuguero is a wonderful opportunity to experience one of Costa Rica’s most important areas for turtles, as well as overall natural diversity while at the same time enjoying the rich Afro-Caribbean influences present there. No matter if you are a first time visitor to Costa Rica or returning, it is an important and exciting destination.



KURTIS

Marcel Gallagher asked:


There’s plenty to do when you visit Moors Valley country park and it is a great day out for all the family. Entrance to the park is free of charge but you do have to pay for vehicle parking. Attractions in the park incur an extra cost. Parking your car in the enormous parking area is up to £8 for all day. Rather good excellent value really when you remember that you could simply spend the entire day in the park.

Even as you leave your auto, you can’t even begin to take in the sheer size of Moors Valley, it actually is stunning. At the bottom of the automobile park you will find the 18th century barn which incorporates the Visitors Centre. The Centre includes as well as info, a cafe, a gift shop and johns.

Well situated, not far away from the Visitors Centre, is a superb play area for kids, part of which most suited for the truly young and part for some of the older youngsters. A sandy area for actually tiny kids. Behind the centre is the Steam railway and further beyond a lake. Heaps of open space and picnic tables for lunch.

The station to the steam railway is found just behind the Visitors Centre. The steam train journey begins and ends here. The railway ranks up as one of the finest steam railways in the country. The journey lasts for about 20 mins and passes thru some tunnels and tours around the park and lake.

An energetic technique to get around Moors Valley if it something that suits you and your folks are to hire a bike. Frequently you wish you had one of those bike carriers on your auto - well here at this park you can hire one from the various available in the hire store. There are miles and miles of well mapped cycling paths here and it’s a good way to see the beauty of the park.

Moors Valley is the place to go if you wish to experience some tree top high wire acts. It is one of the houses of Go Ape, a tree top high wire experience for the over twelve’s and moderately fit, adrenaline thrill seekers. It lasts for roughly two hours and is hot so pre booking is essential.

The play trail is excellent for the youngsters to get around the park having tons of fun on the wooden play features. This is a journey and a half! Half way round is a tree top ( not Go Ape ) trail about 5 metres above the ground which all of the family can enjoy and then more wooden play equipment for what’s left of the trail.

After a day out at Moors Valley Country Park you can be certain that the entire family will have lots of fun. You can return to your New Forest vacation accommodation after having a fun filled, energetic, packed day and knowing that all will sleep highly well that night.

If you fancy a rest the following down the city of Southampton is also only a short drive away and you will find information on the Southampton website. Visit http://onlinedealseekers.com for more info and ideas about similar destinations.



LESLIE

Peter R Stewart asked:


Lake Nakuru National Park in Kenya was established in 1961, and it has grown from just the lake and the mountains around to now include a lot of the savannahs. As a consequence the amount of wildlife to view has increased enormously, making Nakuru a very worthwhile part of any African safari trip. It is at an altitude of 5700 ft, and covers an area of over 188 sq. Kms.

Its height above sea level alone means that the vegetation and wildlife are considerably different than say at Tsavo which is mainly much lower and closer to the sea.

The lake itself is shallow and alkaline, and varies in size from 5 to 30 square kms depending on the time of year. It is the alkaline nature of Lake Nakuru that causes the huge numbers of visitors each year. It is no exaggeration to say that one species more than any other has made the lake famous throughout the world

Lake Nakuru is best known for the huge stunning flocks of lesser Flamingo, and for many this is the highlight of their Kenya safari holiday, but there is far more to see in the Park than just the pink Flamingos.

The differing environments from the lake itself to wooded and bush grassland, to rocky escarpments and ridges means a great diversity of wildlife.

Hippo of course ca be spotted in the lake along with 400 other species o birdlife, and on the shore, waterbuck, zebra, black and white rhinos, buffalo, leopard, lion, Rothschild’s giraffe, warthog, to name but a few, plus large python snakes.

The Lake Nakuru National Park is the only completely fenced national park in Kenya, and is easily accessed by tarmac road from Nairobi, and Naisha airstrip during the dry season. It is fenced to keep out poachers and so the protected rhino population is growing.



DERRICK

Aparana asked:


This is truly a fantasy of feathers. It is the bird kingdom, where time takes wing. Welcome to the Keoladeo Ghana National Park at Bharatpur in Rajasthan. Spread over an area of little over 232 sq kms, Keoladeo derives its name from the Shiva Temple in the heart of the sanctuary. Formerly known as the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, ornithologist Salim Ali, is credited for bringing this park to public notice.

Background

Prince Bhamji of Morvi state in Gujarat converted this area into a world famous wildlife reserve. Duck shoots were organised in the area every year by the rulers of Bharatpur, in honour of Viceroy Lord Curzon and his party on 1st December, 1902. The exploits of all visiting dignitaries since 1902 have been engraved on stone plaques standing near the Keoladeo temple.

Largest number of birds (4273) were killed on 12th November, 1938, by Lord Linlithgow, Viceroy & Governor General of India and his party. After independence, this reserve was notified as a bird sanctuary but the former rulers of Bharatpur continued to enjoy their shooting rights over the area till 1972. The area was notified as a National Park in 1981 but made effective only in Novemeber,1982.

Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary - How To Get There

The Park is not very far from the three Golden Triangles: Delhi, Agra and Jaipur. The best way to reach this place is by bus, which is readily available from any of these three major tourist destination. There are regular bus services to Bharatpur, both of the state transport and private operators. Travel agencies also operate conducted tours. If the group is large, ask for conducted tours from the Rajasthan tourism office. The nearest airport is that of Agra. Bharatpur has its own railway stations with many major trains halting here.

Places To Stay - Bharatpur National Park

Perhaps no other wildlife sanctuary in India offers the range of accommodation as in Bharatpur. There are rest houses, lodges, dormitories and hotels. Rajasthan Tourism provides good accommodation at its hotel, ‘Saras’. Inside the park, the Bharatpur Forest Lodge is maintained by the ITDC. Shanti Kuteer, Circuit House, Dak Bungalow are also good for a comfortable stay. Park Palace, Govind Niwas and the Tourist complex are the other choices. Almost all the houses around the park lend out one or two rooms to visitors. These are cheap and provide comfortable stay.

For reservations at the Rajasthan Tourism hotels, contact any of its tourist offices in major cities in India.

Climate - Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary

Bharatpur is located on the fringes of the Thar desert. This marshy land has very warm climate. Summers are invariably hot and winters are not very cold. Carry light cottons during summers and woollens during winters. Rainfall is less but sufficient.

General Information - Bharatpur National Park

Best Time

The Keoladeo National Park is open throughout the year. August-October is the breeding season, so the birds are best left alone then. The best season for visiting this place is between October to February when the migratory birds come to visit this park from all over the globe.

Location

Bharatpur, Rajasthan.

Area

232 sq. Kms.

Origin

1981.

Population - Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary

The park supports a population of 375 species of birds, numerous mammals and reptiles. With the onset of winter, migratory birds from all over world come here. They arrive by August and leave in February. Visitors include . The special attraction, however, remains the arrival of the rare Siberian Crane. The park is also rich in Pythons, Spotted Deer, Sambhars, Blue Bull, Black Buck, Jackals, Otters, Fishing Cats, Monitor Lizards.

Main Attraction - Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary

Spoon Bills.

Useful Information

Tourist Information Centres

Rajasthan Tourism

Bikaner House, Near India Gate, New Delhi- 110 001







LAVERN

Jeremiah asked:


Located in the state of Montana, Glacier National Park comprises of two mountain ranges. Sprinkled in between the large mountains are more than 130 named lakes. Hundreds of species of animals are present in Glacier National Park which covers a total area of 16,000 mi² (44,000 km²). Home to 1,100 different vascular plants species, the vast and pristine eco system of Glacier National offers unmatched visual treat to the visitors.

Glacier helicopter tours offer the best views

In such a dynamic national park it is difficult to envision the whole natural beauty from a low height. By going for a Glacier helicopter tour you can enjoy a bird’s view of the serene national park.

Enjoy safe adventure with Glacier National Park helicopter tours

Glacier National Park helicopter tours are operated by professional who are trained and have obtained expertise in flying helicopters in the area through years of experience. Thus, when you opt for Glacier Park helicopter tours you can have a safe trip and enjoy the adventure of flying in a helicopter.

Observe wild life by going on Glacier helicopter tours

Apart from the 360 degree view of the almost 100 years old world heritage site you can also observe the wild life flying high in air. While taking you on a Glacier helicopter tour, the helicopter operator maintains a good distance. Thus the natural life in the park remains unaffected and you can pleasurably view the details of the wild life in the area using a pair of telescope.

On your next visit to the Glacier National Park, don’t forget to go on a helicopter trip.



DOUG