Glamping Big Sur California: Best of Airbnb

Big Sur is a breathtaking rugged coastline of central California. You have the amazing Santa Lucia Mountains to the east. Also the popular road trip highway route 1 with it's winding road and spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean and of course the Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park also referred to as the "mini Yosemite." With Glamping Big Sur being one of the most popular bucket list items for those exploring the area, it is no wonder Big Sur has been awarded "Traveler's Choice Award Winner for Top 25 Destinations in the United States." Looking for more California Glamping spots? Check out our Joshua Tree Glamping article. Things to do when Glamping Big Sur Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park Mcway Falls Mcway falls is a must see sight when glamping Big Sur. It is a 80 foot waterfalls that drops onto the beach year round. One of the most unique waterfalls to see. Ewoldsen Trail and The Redwoods Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park is also home to 2500 year old redwood trees. These ancient giants tower to over 300 feet and are a great display of the wonders nature can provide. Ewoldsen Trail offers a unique way of seeing these iconic trees while navigating a coastal canyon. Point Lobos and the Point Lobos State Natural Reserve Once described as "the greatest meeting of land and water in the world," this area of Big Sur has an abundance of hiking trails and one of the richest marine habitats in California. Read the full article

Top Joshua Tree Glamping Spots to Book

Joshua Tree in California is a popular destination with it's unique landscape of jagged mountains, scattered old mines and open desert with crazy looking trees. The Joshua Tree National Park is where the high Mojave Desert meets the low Colorado Desert. People flock to this area not only for nature, solitude and bright skies but for various music festivals including the iconic Coachella. Whether you are traveling to the area for a festival or for quality time with mother earth, Joshua Tree Glamping is the way to experience it. It is so popular and there are so many unique and wonderful accommodations to suit everyone's needs. We have compiled a list of our favorite Joshua Tree Glamping spots for you to check out. Remember to book as soon as possible as slots fill up fast. Before we get to the list of top for glamping Joshua Tree, let's go over a few things you can see and do in the area. Of course you have loads of outdoor activities including rock climbing, hiking and cycling, 4x4ing and festivals that seem to always be going on. A few spots you want to place on your to do list are Hidden Valley, Cholla Cactus Garden, Keys View, Arch Rock, Cap Rock, Slab City and 49 Palms Canyon Trail. There is usually a great community in the area of outdoor enthusiasts, so feel free to make new friends or just enjoy some solitude in one of these amazing glamorous camping spots. If you are looking for more glamping lists in the USA click here. Read the full article

Where to stay while Glamping Essex

Essex is an area of England just north east of London and stretches to the North Sea. Being so close to London, it is no surprise Glamping Essex has become so popular. You get easy access to explore the small quaint country villages and the North Sea coastline. Take a trip to Colchester to visit the city's Roman ruins and the Norman-era Colchester Castle. Some other popular sights to see while glamping in Essex are medieval village of Saffron Walden which boasts the Audley End House and Gardens, the Hylands House in Chelmsford, Clacton Pier and Hedingham Castle to name a few. Of course since you are glamping you may opt to just relax at your glamping site, reset and do the occasional country walks and explore the local area. We have created a list of some of the best and most unique places to stay for Glamping Essex. Browse through our list and use the provided links to each Airbnb listing to get additional information and more images. Remember to book in advance as many of these unique Essex glamping spots tend to fill up fast. Enjoy Essex and we hope you have a great glamping experience! Lily Lake Essex Yurt with Hot Tub Location: Hatfield Peverel, UK Best For: Solo, Couples This location actually has two glamping yurts with hot tubs available. The yurt offers a luxury king sized bed and a cabin with kitchen and bathroom. Enjoy the views over the lake or try your luck at fishing off your very own fishing peg. Read the full article

Best Hiking in Ireland and Other Unique Irish Adventures

If you want to fully experience one of the most naturally beautiful places in the world then you must go Hiking in Ireland. The rolling green fields, stone fences, savage cliff coastlines and  medieval castles make it one of the most awe inspiring locations for a great hike or country walk. It is one of the greenest place I have hiked in the world, right up there with my home area of the Pacific Northwest and Hiking the Banaue Rice Terraces in the Philippines. Then you have the Irish themselves who are some of the friendliest people you will ever come across. Everywhere you go, whether a city or small village, you will find a pub filled with welcoming  locals, music, dancing and stories of myths and legends. A perfect place to rest your feet and quench your thirst after a day of hiking the Irish hills and valleys. So where do you hike in Ireland? Well the list is almost endless but to get you started I have created a guide to some of the most scenic hiking spots in Ireland and Northern Ireland. Here you will see some of the best this island has to offer while hitting up a few iconic photographic spots as well.  

Best Hiking in Ireland and Other Unique Irish Adventures

1. The Cliffs of Moher

At over 700 feet tall these cliffs are magnificent to view. They are one of the most visited attractions in Ireland and can get busy during peak season. I suggest going early in the morning when they first open. There is a great walk along the cliffs. They do have a small wall barrier but this can be easily hopped over for a full cliff hike experience. Be careful as winds can be very strong when walking too close to the edge. You can literally fill up a whole card of images here. Look below and see the power of mother nature slamming into the walls. Scenes from great movies like The Princess Bride (Cliffs of Insanity) and Harry Potter and the half blood prince have been filmed here. Here is a 360 experience for the Cliffs of Moher Galway is one of the best places to stay as a home base for seeing the Cliffs of Moher. A bustling center with so many pubs to explore when you are not exploring nature. Galway Hotels

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2. Ballybunion Cliff Walk

South of Galway is a little town called Ballybunion. Along the coast is a great walk along some beautiful beaches and picturesque cliffs. This walk has been used by visitors for the last 100 years. You can also explore a pretty castle and some lovely sand dunes. Most people can easily spend a couple hours here exploring.

3. Clogher Strand Beach

A must see stop when driving around the Dingle peninsula is Clogher Strand. There is a car park here and even on the calmest day, this little cove is spectacular to view. The rocky shore and cliffs are battered by wind and waves up to 26 feet high. There is a wonderful hike from this cove along the countryside and cliffs to the Pier at Wine Strand. This is some of the best hiking in Ireland. This route takes about 3 hours, but you can make your way back via a road if you do not want as long of a walk. Many movie fans may recognize this area as the Irish countryside that Tom Cruise's character was from in "Far and Away."

Dingle is an iconic Irish village worth a stop itself. It has one of the biggest food festivals and also is home to one of the most famous Dolphin's by the name of Fungie. Locals say this same dolphin has made this it's home for the last 32 years. Dingle Hotels

4. Slea Head and Dunmore Head

Easily accessible from Dingle, this is the most western point in Ireland. You can park at Coumeenoole Beach and head up to see Coumeenoole Ogham Stone. This particular Ogham stone is believed to be a place of worship for someone named Erc to the goddess Duibhne(Dovinnias). It is a bit of a hike up to the stone through fields of sheep and over a small fence, but the views from there are one of a kind. You have a heavenly view of the Blasket Islands to the west and nothing else until North America behind them. To the east you can view Slea Head beach and endless miles of green countryside. Put this one on your hiking in Ireland list.

5. Gap of Dunloe

The Gap of Dunloe is a scenic narrow mountain pass just outside of the popular town of Killarney, Ireland. A popular way to ride through the pass is with a jaunting car or pony guided by locals who live around the gap. You can also find some of the best hiking trails in Ireland here. Many also choose to bike through the area. There are even rock climbing routes in the area for those looking for a more extreme adventure. The Dunloe gap is about 7 miles long and consists of 11 lakes connected by the river Loe and an old arch bridge called the "Wishing Bridge." The gap was also a filming area for the movie "The Crying Game." Killarney is your best bet for a place to stay in this area and is a wonderful town full of pubs, delicious food, live music and amenities.  There is also the Killarney National Park to explore and definitely worth a visit when in Killarney. One of the largest parks in Ireland. Killarney Hotels

6. Bog of Frogs Loop

Dublin is an epicenter in Ireland. Many people just stay in Dublin for pubs, music and food but there is adventure just outside the city along with some great Ireland hiking. Within the town of Howth is a fairytale hike through enchanted forests and up to an amazing lookout. This whole area known as Howth Head was immortalized in James Joyce's book Ulysses. One of my favorite Howth hikes is Bog of Frogs that winds through an enchanted forest of gnarly trees which locals say is full of fairies.  Check out Shane's Howth Hikes for guided Ireland hiking tours of this area. Need a spot for lunch? Don't miss the delicious seafood at Octopussy's Seafood Tapas Restaurant on the Howth waterfront. Coming from the Pacific Northwest, I know seafood and this is good seafood. Need place to say in Dublin? Dublin Hotels

7. Dalkey Island

In the town of Dalkey just outside of Dublin you can kayak over to Dalkey Island with Kayaking Dublin. This drops you right into Lord of the Rings-like terrain. The kayak trip over is full of encounters with seals and beautiful coastline. Then you touch down on the island which is covered with rock and a spongy Irish moss. I chose to go barefoot and literally felt like a hobbit exploring the island.  If overnight stays were allowed I may not have left. The island was used by the Vikings as a holding area for slaves they had captured and a base for attacks and defense. This uninhabited island has been used for various purposes for 6000 years. It is now home to goats, seals, rabbits and legends.  Want lunch in Dalkey? Look no further than The Dalkey Duck Looking for more adventure? Zip It Forest Adventures may be what you need. Packed with fun and challenging routes for beginners to advanced. The Red Circuit is an upper body killer!

8. Hellfire Club (Mount Pelier Hill)

One of the most haunted buildings in Ireland wrapped up in witchcraft and satanic rituals. The Hellfire Club had multiple meeting locations around Ireland and some of the most influential and richest men in the country would partake in these gatherings. This old hunting lodge built by William Connolly is on top of Mount Pelier Hill. Locals share stories of debauchery, sacrifices and even the devil himself at this lodge. The hike up to the lodge is gorgeous with views of Dublin to the North and the Wicklow mountains to the South. The lodge itself sits on an old burial site in which adds to the haunted tales and stories of satanic rituals. You can explore the building and feel the eerie presence of those who may have died at this site. Watch your step as the building can be damp and dark. There is a great company Hilltop Treks that does Ireland Hiking tours and can take you up to this spot and other hiking in Ireland Watch a story told by Terry from Hilltop Treks about Hellfire Club here. Looking for something extra to do in this area. How about horseback riding in Dublin overlooking the Wicklow Hills with Killegar Stables? They are a great outfit for beginners to experts and one of Ireland's longest established riding schools. Take in the fresh Irish air as you trot through the countryside. Prefer golfing to hiking? Check out this resort just outside of Dublin with golfing at your fingertips? Check out Portmarnock Hotel and Golf Links

9. Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge

Situated in Northern Ireland along the coast is a rope bridge not for the feint of heart. The bridge is 65 feet long and 100 feet above the rocks below. It connects Carrickarede island with the mainland. It is a nice scenic walk down to the bridge, there is a fee to cross it. On the other side you can explore the old fishing dock and take the stairs to the top of the island. Upon returning across the bridge to your left you can follow the trail to a nice lookout spot for a great photographic view of the bridge and island. This will loop you back to the parking area. Not some of the best hiking in Ireland, but definitely a unique and beautiful area. Plan to stay in Belfast? Belfast is a prime city to situate yourself when exploring Northern Ireland. You can visit Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, Giant's Causeway, Dunluce Castle and The Dark Hedges all from Belfast. Belfast Hotels

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10. Giant's Causeway

One of Northern Ireland's most visited natural wonders. An area consisting of about 40,000 interlocking basalt columns. This is the by-product of an ancient volcanic eruption and is now a UNESCO site. Legend denotes the columns are the remains of a route built by giants. To get to the columns you must park above near the Visitors Center. Remember entrance to the Giant's Causeway is free but use of any of the facilities like the car park requires payment. In slow season you may be able to stop for a drink or snack at the pub and use their parking area or find parking along the road or a wall near the visitors center. It is a bit of a hike down along the coast to get to the columns, but a fairly level road to walk on. Once there, you can spends hours climbing and exploring the area. One the weirdest landscapes next to Cappadocia, Turkey.

Are you a Game of Thrones fan? When you are on your way to the Giant's Causeway or any other of the Northern Ireland Coastal locations, you can stop by the Dark Hedges. Used in the popular TV series Game of Thrones. The massive and unique trees curve over the road and give an eerie and medieval feel to them. Here is another article about Game of Thrones in Dubrovnik.

11. Dunluce Castle and Cliffs

The medieval Dunluce Castle sits right on the edge of the coastline of Northern Ireland. Something right out of Game of Thrones or Lord of the Rings. On all sides of the castle are steep drops which made it an ideal fortification for early Christians and Vikings. There is a cool little bridge connecting to the castle plus a waterway escape to the ocean from under the castle. You can spend a good hour exploring the area and walking through the castle. Plus the area is beautiful for a cycle or a good ole Irish walk along the coast. Read about another Historic Trail here.

12. Glenveagh National Park

Glenveagh National Park is an adventurers paradise. In the county of Donegal in Northwest Ireland lies an oasis of trails, cycling, fishing, vast landscapes and a picturesque castle. In reality this area provides some of the most remote and best hiking in Ireland. Entry to the area is free, but services will be extra. At almost 40,000 acres, this park provides countless hours of exploring. It consists of most of Derryveagh Mountians, the Poisoned Glen and part of Errigal Mountain. You can rent a bike with www.grassroutes.ie to discover more of the area. Fishing can be done on Lough Veagh from July 15th - September 30th. Contact www.donegalanglingholidays.com to arrange. Derry, also know as Londonderry is just over the border in Northern Ireland, but provides a good home base for exploring County Donegal. It is a sight to explore by itself as well. It is a walled city with various 17th century architecture to see. LondonDerry Hotels

  Another option for accommodations is Ireland 's Blue Book. They provide access to Irish Country House Hotels, Manor Houses and Castles for a more unique experience.  

13. Slieve League Cliffs

Just over 2 hours from Derry, these Irish cliffs are said to be one of the best cliffs is Ireland. Larger and just as spectacular as the Cliffs of Moher. I am talking almost 3 times higher. You get wonderful views of Sligo Mountains and Donegal Bay from the top of the cliffs where the ocean devours the rock below. If you are feeling like a little extra adventure, head onto One Man's Pass which connects around to Pilgrim's Path. This is one of Ireland's best hiking trails in Ireland and goes along one of Ireland's most impressive coastlines. The best part is this area is less explored than many other parts of Ireland, at least for now. Thanks for reading. Another detailed article about an Ultimate Road Trip from Belfast to Derry, Northern Ireland is here. Let me know if you think any new hiking in Ireland adventures should be added. Always looking for a new adventure to try. Here is some of the Best Hikes Near Seattle, my hometown. On Pinterest? Use this Pin below to share!

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7 Best Hikes Near Seattle Washington

Here is a list of the 7 Best Hikes Near Seattle. The city of Seattle, Washington is so close to mother nature. If fact you can be grabbing a Starbucks coffee in Pike Place Market at 7am and summit a mountain top by noon for a picnic lunch. There is an endless amount of lakes and mountains to explore from the city. One of the reasons Seattle gets the nickname, The Emerald City. So needless to say many people travel to Seattle not just for the sights and culture of the city but to engulf themselves in the fresh air of it's surrounding wilderness. Whether you are a local or just visiting for some alone time in the mountains. Try one of these 7 best hikes near Seattle. If you need a new pair of Hiking Boots click here. For more hikes in the whole of America, check out Travelers Choice for Best Hikes in the Americas  

List of the 7 Best Hikes Near Seattle

Skyscraper Pass

This is one of the best hikes near Seattle on a very clear day. Although this trail ends with a fairly easy boulder scramble, the views from the rocky summit are worth the effort. From the top look to the South. You can follow the tiers of Burroughs Mountain left to right, up to where the Inter Glacier and Steamboat Prow point to the summit of Rainier. Continuing clockwise, see the green meadows of aptly named Vernal Park, Winthrop Creek and the West Fork White River far below, the immense plateau of Grand Park, the Fremont Lookout, and finally Berkeley Park, below to the southeast.

Details: This trail is about 8 miles roundtrip with an elevation gain 1300 ft. To get there, drive to Mount Rainier National Park’s northeast (White River) entrance, 40 miles east and south of Enumclaw on State Route 410, or 3 miles north of Cayuse Pass on State Route 410. Follow the road to its end at Sunrise.

Mailbox Peak

Bridges and creek crossings await you in the lower section of the hike, and then the switchbacks start. At roughly 850ft of elevation gain per mile, your thighs will feel the burn once you start climbing, and it won't let up until you're standing triumphantly next to the Mailbox. Distract yourself by taking a look at the construction of the trail. A multitude of volunteer crews worked to create rock fords and turnpikes (elevated sections of trail) that keep your feet dry as you cross many creeks. The switchbacks continue for about 4 miles, before rejoining the old trail at elevation 3860 feet for your final push to the summit. This last push consists of 960 feet of elevation gain in half a mile--hopefully the approach warmed you up for the final assault! If your energy flags, remember what views await you at the summit. The peak's position at the end of a long ridgeline means you'll have an even better vantage point for panoramas than you might on other summits like Granite or Bandera. Rainier is in your face, and to the northwest, the Middle Fork Valley stretches before you like a lush green carpet.

Details: This trail is 9.4 miles roundtrip with an elevation gain of 4000 ft. To get there, take exit 34 from I-90. Head north on 468th Ave SE for approximately half a mile until the intersection with the SE Middle Fork Road. Turn right onto the Middle Fork Road. Follow SE Middle Fork Road 2.2 miles to the stop sign at the junction with SE Dorothy Lake Road. Head left onto SE Middle Fork Road and drive .3 miles. Take the turnoff to the trailhead on the right and continue a short distance up the paved road to the paved parking lot with 40 spots and a vault toilet.

Bandera Mountain

Bandera Mountain is a chameleon. Most would describe it as an easy hike--relatively short and not very steep for most of its length–-but then it suddenly changes, turning informal and rough, particularly in its last half mile, making it feel like the rugged backcountry trek it at times can be.

Details: This trail is 8 miles roundtrip with an elevation gain of 3400 ft. To get there, take exit 45 off of I-90 and turn north onto FR 9030. A little over three quarters of a mile from the exit, stay left onto FR 9031. Follow it to its end and the trailhead for the Ira Spring Trail #1038. Road is one-lane gravel and dirt.

Mount Pilchuck

Despite its intermediate difficulty, Mount Pilchuck sees a slew of visitors in a given year. Hikers flock to the trail for its grand panoramic views and historic restored fire lookout. Easily one of the most rewarding hikes near Seattle, its a relatively short 2.7 mile, 2,300 feet ascent which gifts you 360-degree views of Mount Baker, Mount Rainier and the Olympics from its shelter lookout. The lookout sits nestled on a summit that tops out around 5,300 feet. Definitely one of the more popular hikes near Seattle. The lookout is the perfect picnic spot.

Details: Approaching Granite Falls on Hwy 92, you will encounter a roundabout. Take the second exit and get onto Quarry Road. Take Quarry Road 2 miles. You will pass through another roundabout, but stay on Quarry Road. After 2 miles, reach the Mountain Loop Highway. Take a left onto the highway and proceed 10 miles to the Verlot Visitors Center. Continue another mile past the visitor's center and then cross a bridge. After that you take the next right onto paved Mount Pilchuck Road. Once you've made the right-turn, look for a sign indicating the road is FR 42. Proceed 6.8 miles down this road and you will reach the parking lot, which is just off the trailhead and bathroom for Mount Pilchuck.

Hidden Lake Lookout

It offers an intimate view of the very heart of the North Cascades. The kind of immersive experience not available by gazing up from the valleys below. From wildflower meadows in its early stretches to stark granite at the top, it is a front row seat for all that draws us upward. The view you get from here makes you feel so far away from civilization and it is such a good feeling. Another one of my favorites hikes near Seattle.

Details: This trail is 8 miles roundtrip with an elevation gain of 3300 ft. To get there you Drive from Marblemount on Hwy 20, drive the Cascade River Road just short of 10 miles to the junction with FS 1540. The road will be signed for the Hidden Lake Trail. Drive the steep, rutted, rocky road 4.5 miles to the road end and trailhead. Be sure to leave room for other people to drive in and out of the trailhead area.

The Enchantments

In the Enchantments, nature has carved one of the magnificent places of this world. An alpine paradise of granite worn smooth by glaciers, larches manicured by wind and cold, and crystal blue lakes strung together by a creek that tumbles and thunders between them. Seemingly everywhere, herds of mountain goats calmly wander by. Superlatives simply don’t suffice. You quickly find yourself resorting to otherworldly comparisons, just like the early visitors who bestowed place names like Aasgard, Sprite and Leprechaun on the fairytale surroundings. There are three ways to experience the Enchantments, none easy. Add this to your adventures if you have completed some of the easier hikes near Seattle. The absolute minimum price of admission here is a hike of not less than seven miles gaining at least 4,400 feet in elevation in order to make it to even just one of the lakes in the Upper Enchantments. If you're lucky enough to get an overnight permit, you can backpack at your leisure via the Snow Lakes or Stuart Lake trailheads. If you’re a very strong hiker, you can make it in and out via either trailhead in a single day. Although seeing all of the lakes this way is so grueling it borders on the impossible. With two cars (or a car and some bikes), you can hike point-to-point from one trailhead to the other and transit between the two. The thru-hike is typically done from the Stuart Lake trailhead. It reduces the total elevation gain by 2,600 feet relative to going the opposite direction (although it still takes in the punishing climb up Aasgard Pass, which rises 1,900 feet in less than a mile). Pick your poison; enjoy the rewards.

Details: This hike is 18 miles roundtrip with an elevation gain of 4500 ft. To get there you turn onto Icicle Creek Road from US2 on the very western edge of Leavenworth. Drive 8.4 miles and turn left onto Forest Service Road 7601. Follow the bumpy, sometimes potholed dirt road 3.7 miles to the Stuart Lake trailhead. Parking for about 20-30 cars and a toilet are available in the lot. Northwest Forest Pass required. Note that FR 7601 from Icicle Creek Road to the trailhead closes during the winter, typically from November to May, making for a short summer hiking season.

Heather - Maple Pass Loop

If ever there was a hike to satisfy all a hiker's desires, this one comes as close as any. A loop hike with many fabulous changing faces throughout the seasons. Heather-Maple Pass features ridgelines blanketed in wildflowers in summer, lakes ringed with golden larches in fall, and before the highway closes for the season, a dramatic place to experience early winter’s snows. Put this on your own list of Best Hikes Near Seattle

Details: This hike is 7.2 miles roundtrip with an elevation gain of 2000 ft. To get there, from Seattle, drive Hwy 20 through the town of Marblemount and on towards North Cascades National Park. After approximately 50 miles, the Rainy Pass trailhead will be on the south (right) side of the road. There is room here for 40 cars, as well as a privy. There is also a parking area on the north side of the road here which provides access to other trails.

Rattlesnake Ledge

This very popular trail is a breeze to get to. Rattlesnake Ridge Ledge has one of the most epic viewpoints and one of the most picturesque hikes near Seattle. Sweeping views of the Cedar River watershed, Mount Si, Mount Washington, Rattlesnake Lake and Chester Morse Lake. The ledge is a very exposed and large rock that has sheer cliffs. It would be wise approach slowly if you are hiking with kids or dogs. If you wish to extend your trip. You can go back to the junction where the sign points out the trail to East Peak 2.4 miles away, or the ridge traverse to Snoqualmie Park, 8.3 miles away. You can also go just a short way from the junction up to Middle and Upper Ledge. This area is usually much quieter and afford more sweeping views to the northwest, where you can look down on the crowds at Rattlesnake Ledge.

Details: This hike is 4 miles roundtrip with an elevation gain of 1160 ft. To get there from Seattle, drive east on I-90 to exit 32 for 436th Avenue SE. Turn right onto 436th Avenue SE, also signed as Cedar Falls Road SE. Proceed about four miles down the road to the Rattlesnake Lake parking lot on the right. Now that you have seen some of the best hiking Seattle has to offer, why not book your trip to see this amazing area now and get a discount!

If you love hiking? Check out some other epic hikes from around the world. Adventure and Hiking in Ireland Hiking the Banaue Rice Terraces The Historic Old Robe Trail in Washington.  Hiking Havasu Falls Hiking the High Sierra Trail Climbing Kilimanjaro Hiking in Thailand Some of the best hikes in the world If you enjoy sailing, Here is One of the Best things to do in Greece. Thanks to Washington Trails Association. Read the full article

Best Hiking in Ireland and Other Unique Irish Adventures

If you want to fully experience one of the most naturally beautiful places in the world then you must go Hiking in Ireland. The rolling green fields, stone fences, savage cliff coastlines and  medieval castles make it one of the most awe inspiring locations for a great hike or country walk. It is one of the greenest place I have hiked in the world, right up there with my home area of the Pacific Northwest and Hiking the Banaue Rice Terraces in the Philippines. Then you have the Irish themselves who are some of the friendliest people you will ever come across. Everywhere you go, whether a city or small village, you will find a pub filled with welcoming  locals, music, dancing and stories of myths and legends. A perfect place to rest your feet and quench your thirst after a day of hiking the Irish hills and valleys. So where do you hike in Ireland? Well the list is almost endless but to get you started I have created a guide to some of the most scenic hiking spots in Ireland and Northern Ireland. Here you will see some of the best this island has to offer while hitting up a few iconic photographic spots as well.  

Best Hiking in Ireland and Other Unique Irish Adventures

1. The Cliffs of Moher

At over 700 feet tall these cliffs are magnificent to view. They are one of the most visited attractions in Ireland and can get busy during peak season. I suggest going early in the morning when they first open. There is a great walk along the cliffs. They do have a small wall barrier but this can be easily hopped over for a full cliff hike experience. Be careful as winds can be very strong when walking too close to the edge. You can literally fill up a whole card of images here. Look below and see the power of mother nature slamming into the walls. Scenes from great movies like The Princess Bride (Cliffs of Insanity) and Harry Potter and the half blood prince have been filmed here. Here is a 360 experience for the Cliffs of Moher Galway is one of the best places to stay as a home base for seeing the Cliffs of Moher. A bustling center with so many pubs to explore when you are not exploring nature. Galway Hotels

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2. Ballybunion Cliff Walk

South of Galway is a little town called Ballybunion. Along the coast is a great walk along some beautiful beaches and picturesque cliffs. This walk has been used by visitors for the last 100 years. You can also explore a pretty castle and some lovely sand dunes. Most people can easily spend a couple hours here exploring.

3. Clogher Strand Beach

A must see stop when driving around the Dingle peninsula is Clogher Strand. There is a car park here and even on the calmest day, this little cove is spectacular to view. The rocky shore and cliffs are battered by wind and waves up to 26 feet high. There is a wonderful hike from this cove along the countryside and cliffs to the Pier at Wine Strand. This is some of the best hiking in Ireland. This route takes about 3 hours, but you can make your way back via a road if you do not want as long of a walk. Many movie fans may recognize this area as the Irish countryside that Tom Cruise's character was from in "Far and Away."

Dingle is an iconic Irish village worth a stop itself. It has one of the biggest food festivals and also is home to one of the most famous Dolphin's by the name of Fungie. Locals say this same dolphin has made this it's home for the last 32 years. Dingle Hotels

4. Slea Head and Dunmore Head

Easily accessible from Dingle, this is the most western point in Ireland. You can park at Coumeenoole Beach and head up to see Coumeenoole Ogham Stone. This particular Ogham stone is believed to be a place of worship for someone named Erc to the goddess Duibhne(Dovinnias). It is a bit of a hike up to the stone through fields of sheep and over a small fence, but the views from there are one of a kind. You have a heavenly view of the Blasket Islands to the west and nothing else until North America behind them. To the east you can view Slea Head beach and endless miles of green countryside. Put this one on your hiking in Ireland list.

5. Gap of Dunloe

The Gap of Dunloe is a scenic narrow mountain pass just outside of the popular town of Killarney, Ireland. A popular way to ride through the pass is with a jaunting car or pony guided by locals who live around the gap. You can also find some of the best hiking trails in Ireland here. Many also choose to bike through the area. There are even rock climbing routes in the area for those looking for a more extreme adventure. The Dunloe gap is about 7 miles long and consists of 11 lakes connected by the river Loe and an old arch bridge called the "Wishing Bridge." The gap was also a filming area for the movie "The Crying Game." Killarney is your best bet for a place to stay in this area and is a wonderful town full of pubs, delicious food, live music and amenities.  There is also the Killarney National Park to explore and definitely worth a visit when in Killarney. One of the largest parks in Ireland. Killarney Hotels

6. Bog of Frogs Loop

Dublin is an epicenter in Ireland. Many people just stay in Dublin for pubs, music and food but there is adventure just outside the city along with some great Ireland hiking. Within the town of Howth is a fairytale hike through enchanted forests and up to an amazing lookout. This whole area known as Howth Head was immortalized in James Joyce's book Ulysses. One of my favorite Howth hikes is Bog of Frogs that winds through an enchanted forest of gnarly trees which locals say is full of fairies.  Check out Shane's Howth Hikes for guided Ireland hiking tours of this area. Need a spot for lunch? Don't miss the delicious seafood at Octopussy's Seafood Tapas Restaurant on the Howth waterfront. Coming from the Pacific Northwest, I know seafood and this is good seafood. Need place to say in Dublin? Dublin Hotels

7. Dalkey Island

In the town of Dalkey just outside of Dublin you can kayak over to Dalkey Island with Kayaking Dublin. This drops you right into Lord of the Rings-like terrain. The kayak trip over is full of encounters with seals and beautiful coastline. Then you touch down on the island which is covered with rock and a spongy Irish moss. I chose to go barefoot and literally felt like a hobbit exploring the island.  If overnight stays were allowed I may not have left. The island was used by the Vikings as a holding area for slaves they had captured and a base for attacks and defense. This uninhabited island has been used for various purposes for 6000 years. It is now home to goats, seals, rabbits and legends.  Want lunch in Dalkey? Look no further than The Dalkey Duck Looking for more adventure? Zip It Forest Adventures may be what you need. Packed with fun and challenging routes for beginners to advanced. The Red Circuit is an upper body killer!

8. Hellfire Club (Mount Pelier Hill)

One of the most haunted buildings in Ireland wrapped up in witchcraft and satanic rituals. The Hellfire Club had multiple meeting locations around Ireland and some of the most influential and richest men in the country would partake in these gatherings. This old hunting lodge built by William Connolly is on top of Mount Pelier Hill. Locals share stories of debauchery, sacrifices and even the devil himself at this lodge. The hike up to the lodge is gorgeous with views of Dublin to the North and the Wicklow mountains to the South. The lodge itself sits on an old burial site in which adds to the haunted tales and stories of satanic rituals. You can explore the building and feel the eerie presence of those who may have died at this site. Watch your step as the building can be damp and dark. There is a great company Hilltop Treks that does Ireland Hiking tours and can take you up to this spot and other hiking in Ireland Watch a story told by Terry from Hilltop Treks about Hellfire Club here. Looking for something extra to do in this area. How about horseback riding in Dublin overlooking the Wicklow Hills with Killegar Stables? They are a great outfit for beginners to experts and one of Ireland's longest established riding schools. Take in the fresh Irish air as you trot through the countryside. Prefer golfing to hiking? Check out this resort just outside of Dublin with golfing at your fingertips? Check out Portmarnock Hotel and Golf Links

9. Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge

Situated in Northern Ireland along the coast is a rope bridge not for the feint of heart. The bridge is 65 feet long and 100 feet above the rocks below. It connects Carrickarede island with the mainland. It is a nice scenic walk down to the bridge, there is a fee to cross it. On the other side you can explore the old fishing dock and take the stairs to the top of the island. Upon returning across the bridge to your left you can follow the trail to a nice lookout spot for a great photographic view of the bridge and island. This will loop you back to the parking area. Not some of the best hiking in Ireland, but definitely a unique and beautiful area. Plan to stay in Belfast? Belfast is a prime city to situate yourself when exploring Northern Ireland. You can visit Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, Giant's Causeway, Dunluce Castle and The Dark Hedges all from Belfast. Belfast Hotels

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10. Giant's Causeway

One of Northern Ireland's most visited natural wonders. An area consisting of about 40,000 interlocking basalt columns. This is the by-product of an ancient volcanic eruption and is now a UNESCO site. Legend denotes the columns are the remains of a route built by giants. To get to the columns you must park above near the Visitors Center. Remember entrance to the Giant's Causeway is free but use of any of the facilities like the car park requires payment. In slow season you may be able to stop for a drink or snack at the pub and use their parking area or find parking along the road or a wall near the visitors center. It is a bit of a hike down along the coast to get to the columns, but a fairly level road to walk on. Once there, you can spends hours climbing and exploring the area. One the weirdest landscapes next to Cappadocia, Turkey.

Are you a Game of Thrones fan? When you are on your way to the Giant's Causeway or any other of the Northern Ireland Coastal locations, you can stop by the Dark Hedges. Used in the popular TV series Game of Thrones. The massive and unique trees curve over the road and give an eerie and medieval feel to them. Here is another article about Game of Thrones in Dubrovnik.

11. Dunluce Castle and Cliffs

The medieval Dunluce Castle sits right on the edge of the coastline of Northern Ireland. Something right out of Game of Thrones or Lord of the Rings. On all sides of the castle are steep drops which made it an ideal fortification for early Christians and Vikings. There is a cool little bridge connecting to the castle plus a waterway escape to the ocean from under the castle. You can spend a good hour exploring the area and walking through the castle. Plus the area is beautiful for a cycle or a good ole Irish walk along the coast. Read about another Historic Trail here.

12. Glenveagh National Park

Glenveagh National Park is an adventurers paradise. In the county of Donegal in Northwest Ireland lies an oasis of trails, cycling, fishing, vast landscapes and a picturesque castle. In reality this area provides some of the most remote and best hiking in Ireland. Entry to the area is free, but services will be extra. At almost 40,000 acres, this park provides countless hours of exploring. It consists of most of Derryveagh Mountians, the Poisoned Glen and part of Errigal Mountain. You can rent a bike with www.grassroutes.ie to discover more of the area. Fishing can be done on Lough Veagh from July 15th - September 30th. Contact www.donegalanglingholidays.com to arrange. Derry, also know as Londonderry is just over the border in Northern Ireland, but provides a good home base for exploring County Donegal. It is a sight to explore by itself as well. It is a walled city with various 17th century architecture to see. LondonDerry Hotels

  Another option for accommodations is Ireland 's Blue Book. They provide access to Irish Country House Hotels, Manor Houses and Castles for a more unique experience.  

13. Slieve League Cliffs

Just over 2 hours from Derry, these Irish cliffs are said to be one of the best cliffs is Ireland. Larger and just as spectacular as the Cliffs of Moher. I am talking almost 3 times higher. You get wonderful views of Sligo Mountains and Donegal Bay from the top of the cliffs where the ocean devours the rock below. If you are feeling like a little extra adventure, head onto One Man's Pass which connects around to Pilgrim's Path. This is one of Ireland's best hiking trails in Ireland and goes along one of Ireland's most impressive coastlines. The best part is this area is less explored than many other parts of Ireland, at least for now. Thanks for reading. Another detailed article about an Ultimate Road Trip from Belfast to Derry, Northern Ireland is here. Let me know if you think any new hiking in Ireland adventures should be added. Always looking for a new adventure to try. Here is some of the Best Hikes Near Seattle, my hometown. On Pinterest? Use this Pin below to share!

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7 Best Hikes Near Seattle Washington

Here is a list of the 7 Best Hikes Near Seattle. The city of Seattle, Washington is so close to mother nature. If fact you can be grabbing a Starbucks coffee in Pike Place Market at 7am and summit a mountain top by noon for a picnic lunch. There is an endless amount of lakes and mountains to explore from the city. One of the reasons Seattle gets the nickname, The Emerald City. So needless to say many people travel to Seattle not just for the sights and culture of the city but to engulf themselves in the fresh air of it's surrounding wilderness. Whether you are a local or just visiting for some alone time in the mountains. Try one of these 7 best hikes near Seattle. If you need a new pair of Hiking Boots click here. For more hikes in the whole of America, check out Travelers Choice for Best Hikes in the Americas  

List of the 7 Best Hikes Near Seattle

Skyscraper Pass

This is one of the best hikes near Seattle on a very clear day. Although this trail ends with a fairly easy boulder scramble, the views from the rocky summit are worth the effort. From the top look to the South. You can follow the tiers of Burroughs Mountain left to right, up to where the Inter Glacier and Steamboat Prow point to the summit of Rainier. Continuing clockwise, see the green meadows of aptly named Vernal Park, Winthrop Creek and the West Fork White River far below, the immense plateau of Grand Park, the Fremont Lookout, and finally Berkeley Park, below to the southeast.

Details: This trail is about 8 miles roundtrip with an elevation gain 1300 ft. To get there, drive to Mount Rainier National Park’s northeast (White River) entrance, 40 miles east and south of Enumclaw on State Route 410, or 3 miles north of Cayuse Pass on State Route 410. Follow the road to its end at Sunrise.

Mailbox Peak

Bridges and creek crossings await you in the lower section of the hike, and then the switchbacks start. At roughly 850ft of elevation gain per mile, your thighs will feel the burn once you start climbing, and it won't let up until you're standing triumphantly next to the Mailbox. Distract yourself by taking a look at the construction of the trail. A multitude of volunteer crews worked to create rock fords and turnpikes (elevated sections of trail) that keep your feet dry as you cross many creeks. The switchbacks continue for about 4 miles, before rejoining the old trail at elevation 3860 feet for your final push to the summit. This last push consists of 960 feet of elevation gain in half a mile--hopefully the approach warmed you up for the final assault! If your energy flags, remember what views await you at the summit. The peak's position at the end of a long ridgeline means you'll have an even better vantage point for panoramas than you might on other summits like Granite or Bandera. Rainier is in your face, and to the northwest, the Middle Fork Valley stretches before you like a lush green carpet.

Details: This trail is 9.4 miles roundtrip with an elevation gain of 4000 ft. To get there, take exit 34 from I-90. Head north on 468th Ave SE for approximately half a mile until the intersection with the SE Middle Fork Road. Turn right onto the Middle Fork Road. Follow SE Middle Fork Road 2.2 miles to the stop sign at the junction with SE Dorothy Lake Road. Head left onto SE Middle Fork Road and drive .3 miles. Take the turnoff to the trailhead on the right and continue a short distance up the paved road to the paved parking lot with 40 spots and a vault toilet.

Bandera Mountain

Bandera Mountain is a chameleon. Most would describe it as an easy hike--relatively short and not very steep for most of its length–-but then it suddenly changes, turning informal and rough, particularly in its last half mile, making it feel like the rugged backcountry trek it at times can be.

Details: This trail is 8 miles roundtrip with an elevation gain of 3400 ft. To get there, take exit 45 off of I-90 and turn north onto FR 9030. A little over three quarters of a mile from the exit, stay left onto FR 9031. Follow it to its end and the trailhead for the Ira Spring Trail #1038. Road is one-lane gravel and dirt.

Mount Pilchuck

Despite its intermediate difficulty, Mount Pilchuck sees a slew of visitors in a given year. Hikers flock to the trail for its grand panoramic views and historic restored fire lookout. Easily one of the most rewarding hikes near Seattle, its a relatively short 2.7 mile, 2,300 feet ascent which gifts you 360-degree views of Mount Baker, Mount Rainier and the Olympics from its shelter lookout. The lookout sits nestled on a summit that tops out around 5,300 feet. Definitely one of the more popular hikes near Seattle. The lookout is the perfect picnic spot.

Details: Approaching Granite Falls on Hwy 92, you will encounter a roundabout. Take the second exit and get onto Quarry Road. Take Quarry Road 2 miles. You will pass through another roundabout, but stay on Quarry Road. After 2 miles, reach the Mountain Loop Highway. Take a left onto the highway and proceed 10 miles to the Verlot Visitors Center. Continue another mile past the visitor's center and then cross a bridge. After that you take the next right onto paved Mount Pilchuck Road. Once you've made the right-turn, look for a sign indicating the road is FR 42. Proceed 6.8 miles down this road and you will reach the parking lot, which is just off the trailhead and bathroom for Mount Pilchuck.

Hidden Lake Lookout

It offers an intimate view of the very heart of the North Cascades. The kind of immersive experience not available by gazing up from the valleys below. From wildflower meadows in its early stretches to stark granite at the top, it is a front row seat for all that draws us upward. The view you get from here makes you feel so far away from civilization and it is such a good feeling. Another one of my favorites hikes near Seattle.

Details: This trail is 8 miles roundtrip with an elevation gain of 3300 ft. To get there you Drive from Marblemount on Hwy 20, drive the Cascade River Road just short of 10 miles to the junction with FS 1540. The road will be signed for the Hidden Lake Trail. Drive the steep, rutted, rocky road 4.5 miles to the road end and trailhead. Be sure to leave room for other people to drive in and out of the trailhead area.

The Enchantments

In the Enchantments, nature has carved one of the magnificent places of this world. An alpine paradise of granite worn smooth by glaciers, larches manicured by wind and cold, and crystal blue lakes strung together by a creek that tumbles and thunders between them. Seemingly everywhere, herds of mountain goats calmly wander by. Superlatives simply don’t suffice. You quickly find yourself resorting to otherworldly comparisons, just like the early visitors who bestowed place names like Aasgard, Sprite and Leprechaun on the fairytale surroundings. There are three ways to experience the Enchantments, none easy. Add this to your adventures if you have completed some of the easier hikes near Seattle. The absolute minimum price of admission here is a hike of not less than seven miles gaining at least 4,400 feet in elevation in order to make it to even just one of the lakes in the Upper Enchantments. If you're lucky enough to get an overnight permit, you can backpack at your leisure via the Snow Lakes or Stuart Lake trailheads. If you’re a very strong hiker, you can make it in and out via either trailhead in a single day. Although seeing all of the lakes this way is so grueling it borders on the impossible. With two cars (or a car and some bikes), you can hike point-to-point from one trailhead to the other and transit between the two. The thru-hike is typically done from the Stuart Lake trailhead. It reduces the total elevation gain by 2,600 feet relative to going the opposite direction (although it still takes in the punishing climb up Aasgard Pass, which rises 1,900 feet in less than a mile). Pick your poison; enjoy the rewards.

Details: This hike is 18 miles roundtrip with an elevation gain of 4500 ft. To get there you turn onto Icicle Creek Road from US2 on the very western edge of Leavenworth. Drive 8.4 miles and turn left onto Forest Service Road 7601. Follow the bumpy, sometimes potholed dirt road 3.7 miles to the Stuart Lake trailhead. Parking for about 20-30 cars and a toilet are available in the lot. Northwest Forest Pass required. Note that FR 7601 from Icicle Creek Road to the trailhead closes during the winter, typically from November to May, making for a short summer hiking season.

Heather - Maple Pass Loop

If ever there was a hike to satisfy all a hiker's desires, this one comes as close as any. A loop hike with many fabulous changing faces throughout the seasons. Heather-Maple Pass features ridgelines blanketed in wildflowers in summer, lakes ringed with golden larches in fall, and before the highway closes for the season, a dramatic place to experience early winter’s snows. Put this on your own list of Best Hikes Near Seattle

Details: This hike is 7.2 miles roundtrip with an elevation gain of 2000 ft. To get there, from Seattle, drive Hwy 20 through the town of Marblemount and on towards North Cascades National Park. After approximately 50 miles, the Rainy Pass trailhead will be on the south (right) side of the road. There is room here for 40 cars, as well as a privy. There is also a parking area on the north side of the road here which provides access to other trails.

Rattlesnake Ledge

This very popular trail is a breeze to get to. Rattlesnake Ridge Ledge has one of the most epic viewpoints and one of the most picturesque hikes near Seattle. Sweeping views of the Cedar River watershed, Mount Si, Mount Washington, Rattlesnake Lake and Chester Morse Lake. The ledge is a very exposed and large rock that has sheer cliffs. It would be wise approach slowly if you are hiking with kids or dogs. If you wish to extend your trip. You can go back to the junction where the sign points out the trail to East Peak 2.4 miles away, or the ridge traverse to Snoqualmie Park, 8.3 miles away. You can also go just a short way from the junction up to Middle and Upper Ledge. This area is usually much quieter and afford more sweeping views to the northwest, where you can look down on the crowds at Rattlesnake Ledge.

Details: This hike is 4 miles roundtrip with an elevation gain of 1160 ft. To get there from Seattle, drive east on I-90 to exit 32 for 436th Avenue SE. Turn right onto 436th Avenue SE, also signed as Cedar Falls Road SE. Proceed about four miles down the road to the Rattlesnake Lake parking lot on the right. Now that you have seen some of the best hiking Seattle has to offer, why not book your trip to see this amazing area now and get a discount!

If you love hiking? Check out some other epic hikes from around the world. Adventure and Hiking in Ireland Hiking the Banaue Rice Terraces The Historic Old Robe Trail in Washington.  Hiking Havasu Falls Hiking the High Sierra Trail Climbing Kilimanjaro Hiking in Thailand Some of the best hikes in the world If you enjoy sailing, Here is One of the Best things to do in Greece. Thanks to Washington Trails Association. Read the full article

Best Hiking in Ireland and Other Unique Irish Adventures

If you want to fully experience one of the most naturally beautiful places in the world then you must go Hiking in Ireland. The rolling green fields, stone fences, savage cliff coastlines and  medieval castles make it one of the most awe inspiring locations for a great hike or country walk. It is one of the greenest place I have hiked in the world, right up there with my home area of the Pacific Northwest and Hiking the Banaue Rice Terraces in the Philippines. Then you have the Irish themselves who are some of the friendliest people you will ever come across. Everywhere you go, whether a city or small village, you will find a pub filled with welcoming  locals, music, dancing and stories of myths and legends. A perfect place to rest your feet and quench your thirst after a day of hiking the Irish hills and valleys. So where do you hike in Ireland? Well the list is almost endless but to get you started I have created a guide to some of the most scenic hiking spots in Ireland and Northern Ireland. Here you will see some of the best this island has to offer while hitting up a few iconic photographic spots as well.  

Best Hiking in Ireland and Other Unique Irish Adventures

1. The Cliffs of Moher

At over 700 feet tall these cliffs are magnificent to view. They are one of the most visited attractions in Ireland and can get busy during peak season. I suggest going early in the morning when they first open. There is a great walk along the cliffs. They do have a small wall barrier but this can be easily hopped over for a full cliff hike experience. Be careful as winds can be very strong when walking too close to the edge. You can literally fill up a whole card of images here. Look below and see the power of mother nature slamming into the walls. Scenes from great movies like The Princess Bride (Cliffs of Insanity) and Harry Potter and the half blood prince have been filmed here. Here is a 360 experience for the Cliffs of Moher Galway is one of the best places to stay as a home base for seeing the Cliffs of Moher. A bustling center with so many pubs to explore when you are not exploring nature. Galway Hotels

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2. Ballybunion Cliff Walk

South of Galway is a little town called Ballybunion. Along the coast is a great walk along some beautiful beaches and picturesque cliffs. This walk has been used by visitors for the last 100 years. You can also explore a pretty castle and some lovely sand dunes. Most people can easily spend a couple hours here exploring.

3. Clogher Strand Beach

A must see stop when driving around the Dingle peninsula is Clogher Strand. There is a car park here and even on the calmest day, this little cove is spectacular to view. The rocky shore and cliffs are battered by wind and waves up to 26 feet high. There is a wonderful hike from this cove along the countryside and cliffs to the Pier at Wine Strand. This is some of the best hiking in Ireland. This route takes about 3 hours, but you can make your way back via a road if you do not want as long of a walk. Many movie fans may recognize this area as the Irish countryside that Tom Cruise's character was from in "Far and Away."

Dingle is an iconic Irish village worth a stop itself. It has one of the biggest food festivals and also is home to one of the most famous Dolphin's by the name of Fungie. Locals say this same dolphin has made this it's home for the last 32 years. Dingle Hotels

4. Slea Head and Dunmore Head

Easily accessible from Dingle, this is the most western point in Ireland. You can park at Coumeenoole Beach and head up to see Coumeenoole Ogham Stone. This particular Ogham stone is believed to be a place of worship for someone named Erc to the goddess Duibhne(Dovinnias). It is a bit of a hike up to the stone through fields of sheep and over a small fence, but the views from there are one of a kind. You have a heavenly view of the Blasket Islands to the west and nothing else until North America behind them. To the east you can view Slea Head beach and endless miles of green countryside. Put this one on your hiking in Ireland list.

5. Gap of Dunloe

The Gap of Dunloe is a scenic narrow mountain pass just outside of the popular town of Killarney, Ireland. A popular way to ride through the pass is with a jaunting car or pony guided by locals who live around the gap. You can also find some of the best hiking trails in Ireland here. Many also choose to bike through the area. There are even rock climbing routes in the area for those looking for a more extreme adventure. The Dunloe gap is about 7 miles long and consists of 11 lakes connected by the river Loe and an old arch bridge called the "Wishing Bridge." The gap was also a filming area for the movie "The Crying Game." Killarney is your best bet for a place to stay in this area and is a wonderful town full of pubs, delicious food, live music and amenities.  There is also the Killarney National Park to explore and definitely worth a visit when in Killarney. One of the largest parks in Ireland. Killarney Hotels

6. Bog of Frogs Loop

Dublin is an epicenter in Ireland. Many people just stay in Dublin for pubs, music and food but there is adventure just outside the city along with some great Ireland hiking. Within the town of Howth is a fairytale hike through enchanted forests and up to an amazing lookout. This whole area known as Howth Head was immortalized in James Joyce's book Ulysses. One of my favorite Howth hikes is Bog of Frogs that winds through an enchanted forest of gnarly trees which locals say is full of fairies.  Check out Shane's Howth Hikes for guided Ireland hiking tours of this area. Need a spot for lunch? Don't miss the delicious seafood at Octopussy's Seafood Tapas Restaurant on the Howth waterfront. Coming from the Pacific Northwest, I know seafood and this is good seafood. Need place to say in Dublin? Dublin Hotels

7. Dalkey Island

In the town of Dalkey just outside of Dublin you can kayak over to Dalkey Island with Kayaking Dublin. This drops you right into Lord of the Rings-like terrain. The kayak trip over is full of encounters with seals and beautiful coastline. Then you touch down on the island which is covered with rock and a spongy Irish moss. I chose to go barefoot and literally felt like a hobbit exploring the island.  If overnight stays were allowed I may not have left. The island was used by the Vikings as a holding area for slaves they had captured and a base for attacks and defense. This uninhabited island has been used for various purposes for 6000 years. It is now home to goats, seals, rabbits and legends.  Want lunch in Dalkey? Look no further than The Dalkey Duck Looking for more adventure? Zip It Forest Adventures may be what you need. Packed with fun and challenging routes for beginners to advanced. The Red Circuit is an upper body killer!

8. Hellfire Club (Mount Pelier Hill)

One of the most haunted buildings in Ireland wrapped up in witchcraft and satanic rituals. The Hellfire Club had multiple meeting locations around Ireland and some of the most influential and richest men in the country would partake in these gatherings. This old hunting lodge built by William Connolly is on top of Mount Pelier Hill. Locals share stories of debauchery, sacrifices and even the devil himself at this lodge. The hike up to the lodge is gorgeous with views of Dublin to the North and the Wicklow mountains to the South. The lodge itself sits on an old burial site in which adds to the haunted tales and stories of satanic rituals. You can explore the building and feel the eerie presence of those who may have died at this site. Watch your step as the building can be damp and dark. There is a great company Hilltop Treks that does Ireland Hiking tours and can take you up to this spot and other hiking in Ireland Watch a story told by Terry from Hilltop Treks about Hellfire Club here. Looking for something extra to do in this area. How about horseback riding in Dublin overlooking the Wicklow Hills with Killegar Stables? They are a great outfit for beginners to experts and one of Ireland's longest established riding schools. Take in the fresh Irish air as you trot through the countryside. Prefer golfing to hiking? Check out this resort just outside of Dublin with golfing at your fingertips? Check out Portmarnock Hotel and Golf Links

9. Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge

Situated in Northern Ireland along the coast is a rope bridge not for the feint of heart. The bridge is 65 feet long and 100 feet above the rocks below. It connects Carrickarede island with the mainland. It is a nice scenic walk down to the bridge, there is a fee to cross it. On the other side you can explore the old fishing dock and take the stairs to the top of the island. Upon returning across the bridge to your left you can follow the trail to a nice lookout spot for a great photographic view of the bridge and island. This will loop you back to the parking area. Not some of the best hiking in Ireland, but definitely a unique and beautiful area. Plan to stay in Belfast? Belfast is a prime city to situate yourself when exploring Northern Ireland. You can visit Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, Giant's Causeway, Dunluce Castle and The Dark Hedges all from Belfast. Belfast Hotels

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10. Giant's Causeway

One of Northern Ireland's most visited natural wonders. An area consisting of about 40,000 interlocking basalt columns. This is the by-product of an ancient volcanic eruption and is now a UNESCO site. Legend denotes the columns are the remains of a route built by giants. To get to the columns you must park above near the Visitors Center. Remember entrance to the Giant's Causeway is free but use of any of the facilities like the car park requires payment. In slow season you may be able to stop for a drink or snack at the pub and use their parking area or find parking along the road or a wall near the visitors center. It is a bit of a hike down along the coast to get to the columns, but a fairly level road to walk on. Once there, you can spends hours climbing and exploring the area. One the weirdest landscapes next to Cappadocia, Turkey.

Are you a Game of Thrones fan? When you are on your way to the Giant's Causeway or any other of the Northern Ireland Coastal locations, you can stop by the Dark Hedges. Used in the popular TV series Game of Thrones. The massive and unique trees curve over the road and give an eerie and medieval feel to them. Here is another article about Game of Thrones in Dubrovnik.

11. Dunluce Castle and Cliffs

The medieval Dunluce Castle sits right on the edge of the coastline of Northern Ireland. Something right out of Game of Thrones or Lord of the Rings. On all sides of the castle are steep drops which made it an ideal fortification for early Christians and Vikings. There is a cool little bridge connecting to the castle plus a waterway escape to the ocean from under the castle. You can spend a good hour exploring the area and walking through the castle. Plus the area is beautiful for a cycle or a good ole Irish walk along the coast. Read about another Historic Trail here.

12. Glenveagh National Park

Glenveagh National Park is an adventurers paradise. In the county of Donegal in Northwest Ireland lies an oasis of trails, cycling, fishing, vast landscapes and a picturesque castle. In reality this area provides some of the most remote and best hiking in Ireland. Entry to the area is free, but services will be extra. At almost 40,000 acres, this park provides countless hours of exploring. It consists of most of Derryveagh Mountians, the Poisoned Glen and part of Errigal Mountain. You can rent a bike with www.grassroutes.ie to discover more of the area. Fishing can be done on Lough Veagh from July 15th - September 30th. Contact www.donegalanglingholidays.com to arrange. Derry, also know as Londonderry is just over the border in Northern Ireland, but provides a good home base for exploring County Donegal. It is a sight to explore by itself as well. It is a walled city with various 17th century architecture to see. LondonDerry Hotels

  Another option for accommodations is Ireland 's Blue Book. They provide access to Irish Country House Hotels, Manor Houses and Castles for a more unique experience.  

13. Slieve League Cliffs

Just over 2 hours from Derry, these Irish cliffs are said to be one of the best cliffs is Ireland. Larger and just as spectacular as the Cliffs of Moher. I am talking almost 3 times higher. You get wonderful views of Sligo Mountains and Donegal Bay from the top of the cliffs where the ocean devours the rock below. If you are feeling like a little extra adventure, head onto One Man's Pass which connects around to Pilgrim's Path. This is one of Ireland's best hiking trails in Ireland and goes along one of Ireland's most impressive coastlines. The best part is this area is less explored than many other parts of Ireland, at least for now. Thanks for reading. Another detailed article about an Ultimate Road Trip from Belfast to Derry, Northern Ireland is here. Let me know if you think any new hiking in Ireland adventures should be added. Always looking for a new adventure to try. Here is some of the Best Hikes Near Seattle, my hometown. On Pinterest? Use this Pin below to share!

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Thru-Hiking the High Sierra Trail in California

  The High Sierra Trail starts in the West in the Giant Forest of the Sequoia National Park, you then hike across the mountain range to Mt. Whitney in the East and finally ending at Whitney Portal just outside of Lone Pine, CA. Mt. Whitney is the tallest mountain in the Continental US, standing at 14,505 ft.   Distance: 72 miles Total Elevation Gain: around 19,000ft Time: 6 to 9 days Difficulty: Strenuous Permits Required: Yes, from SEKI heading East or from Inyo National Forest heading West Permits – To hike the trail during the quota season, you email your PDF application on or after March 1 at 12:01am to the SEKI wilderness office (seki_wilderness_reservations@nps.gov). Emailed applications before that date will not be processed. It takes them a couple of weeks to get back to you because they go through all of the emails manually and award dates based on a first come first serve basis of when the emails come in. Then they will email you which dates you were awarded and a link to submit payment and you’re done with that!

Day 1 – Crescent Meadows to Panther Creek

After picking up permits from the Lodgepole Visitors Center, the trail starts in the Giant Forest. About a mile in, you’ll get to Eagle View which opens up to an expansive view of the Great Western Divide which we started to ascend the next day. Panther Creek is about 3 miles in. It’s not very well marked, look for flat ground to camp on. It’s near water so you can filter for the evening and morning.  

Day 2 – Panther Creek to Hamilton Lake

Rise and shine! Today we started our ascend into and over the Great Western Divide. The first 2 miles from Panther Creek to Mehrten Creek were fairly level, but from there the trail starts to pick up in elevation gain. At 11.5 miles into the trail, after some grueling switchbacks we arrived at Bearpaw Meadow.  Brownies, beer and sample size medications such as Advil are available for sale even if you aren’t staying at the Camp’s lodging. Get the brownie, it’s an amazing treat after the last 2 mile climb. And it’s HUGE! If you want to stay at Bearpaw, you can make reservations starting January 2nd at 7am by calling (866) 807-3598.

From there it’s another steep 4 miles to get to Hamilton Lake. If you’re running low on water, fill up at Bear Paw. That’s the last chance until right before Hamilton Lake. This section of the hike is very exposed as you hike up switchbacks and the granite wall that the drops you into the bowl that Hamilton Lake sits in. There are a couple water crossings along the way and one especially larger about 1 mile from Hamilton Lake. At Hamilton Lake, you’ll encounter people who are just hiking out and back to Hamilton Lake and people who you will see throughout the rest of your journey on the High Sierra Trail. Hamilton Lake is a great place to pitch a tent for the night, or if you’re continuing further that day, it’s a great place for a break. There’s also a pit toilet just above Hamilton Lake off of the main trail. >Best Hikes Near SeattleHiking The Rice Terraces of Banaue Read the full article

Climbing Kilimanjaro - The Highest Mountain in Africa

Climbing Kilimanjaro is on many bucket-lists - the idea of ‘conquering’ one of the Seven Summits, and pushing yourself physically makes it a compelling destination. That you can trek to the summit - it’s not a technical climb - means it’s accessible to anyone with a sense of adventure, and a good level of fitness. Love hiking? Check out the Best Hikes Near Seattle

A Few Facts About Climbing Kilimanjaro

Standing 19,341ft above sea-level, Mount Kilimanjaro falls into the “extreme altitude” category - saying that, it’s not technical, so no climbing skills are required. It takes anything from 5-10 days to get to the summit - via 7 different routes. Each route has its pros and cons, and you’ll need to decide in advance which you want to do You have to use a registered tour operator for your climb. Solo or self-supported hiking and trekking are not permitted by the National Parks Authority. Your kit will be carried by porters and your camp will be set up each day. You will carry a daypack with the things you need for the duration of the day’s hiking - the tour operator’s staff take care of the rest.

The Whys…

Everyone has their own personal reasons for wanting to tackle Mt. Kilimanjaro. For some of us, it’s a physical challenge, for others it’s a personal quest. For some it’s all about the summit, for others it’s about the scenery. This trek can be a great opportunity to level up your fitness game and train a bit differently, with a clear end goal in mind. The experience of hiking on Kilimanjaro’s slopes is unforgettable - a place of tropical forests, rock, and ice: a snow-capped peak on the Equator. Getting to know your guides and porters, hearing about their lives and families, seeing their enthusiasm for this mountain. You do get back to basics a bit. The camps are mostly comfortable - although altitude can cause sleep issues. The days hiking can be tough - 7-9 hours a day - whilst not technical, it’s a slog. But your worries and stresses of home are replaced by the simplicity of the climb. You focus on one thing: moving forward, one foot in front of the other, through spectacular landscapes.

The Hows…

Getting There: The nearest airport is Kilimanjaro International Airport. There are direct flights from Europe via KLM, or the Middle East with Qatar Airways. Numerous flights go from Dar-es-Salaam in Tanzania or Nairobi, Kenya. Visas: You will require a visa to enter Tanzania. It’s best to arrange this in advance with your local embassy, but in some cases, it can be arranged at the airport, on arrival. Vaccinations: At the time of writing, Tanzania requires a Yellow Fever certificate if you are traveling through a country that is at risk of the disease. Check with your doctor for any other recommended vaccinations well in advance. Malaria: Whilst malaria is not an issue once you get over 10,000ft, your time in the towns at the bottom of the mountain can put you at risk. You will need a good bug spray and anti-malarial medication. Check with your doctor well in advance. Water: Tap water in Tanzania is not safe to drink. On the mountain, your operator should be providing you with boiled, filtered water for the duration of your climb, and in town be sure to only drink tap water.

Things to know before going

General Health This is an obvious one, but to trek to over 19,000ft, you’ll need to get a clean bill of health from your doctor. A reputable tour operator will always ask for a medical release form from your healthcare professional. It’s important to note that some pre-existing conditions and medications can interact poorly with altitude, causing issues that you may be unaware of. Fitness You will need to be fit and strong - that’s not to say that people in sub-optimal shape haven’t managed to get to the summit - they have. The less physically fit you are the more mental stamina you’ll need. The days can be long, and sleep can be elusive at the higher elevations. You need a decent level of fitness and strength to make the hike enjoyable. You don’t want to arrive at camp each evening exhausted, and wake up sore and cranky the next morning. Signing up for a Kilimanjaro climb can be a great way to kickstart your fitness goals. And then exceed them! As a starting point, check out our Adventure Workout Template: Preparing for your next Adventure. However, fitness is not everything: there’s still the altitude to contend with, and no amount of training can prepare your body for that. Choosing a Tour Operator You can’t hike anywhere on Kilimanjaro’s slopes without a licensed tour operator. There are many to choose from - both locally in Tanzania and in US/Europe. Climbing Kilimanjaro is not cheap, and trying to save a few bucks with the cheapest tour operator is not a good idea. The difference, in brief, between a good and a bad operator will be along these lines: Quality of the gear they use - you don’t want a leaky tent at 15,000ft! Quality of the food they provide The welfare of their staff: a porter’s life is a tough one, and you want an operator to be registered with Kilimanjaro Porter’s Assistance Project Guide training: it’s important that your guide is properly trained for your safety. Guides need to be trained in emergency procedures and be able to recognize symptoms of altitude sickness Safety gear and procedures: what are the processes in place if you need to be evacuated from the mountain? Do plenty of research, ask around and get recommendations from the hiking groups/forums. You don’t want to take unnecessary risks with your life. What to pack From the base to the summit, Kilimanjaro can be compared to hiking from the Equator to the North Pole, in terms of climate zones. You’ll trek from the low-lying cultivated areas and forests of the lower slopes, right up to the Arctic tundra of the Ice Cap zone of the summit Getting a Kilimanjaro gear list together beforehand is important. You’ll only be allowed 15kgs of weight in your duffel bag which is carried by porters, and whatever you can carry in your daypack. A basic packing list would include: 4-5 Pairs of Underwear Top and Bottom Base Layer 3-4 Short Sleeve and 1-2 Long Sleeve Shirts 1-2 Pairs of Hiking pants 1 Fleece Jacket 1 Insulated Winter Jacket 1 Insulated Pants 1 Hard Shell Jacket Lightweight Raingear Sun Hat Warm Beanie or Fleece Headband Headlamp Sunglasses (for high altitude wraparound glacier glasses) Lightweight liner Gloves & Warm Outer Gloves / Mitts Adjustable Hiking Poles Mid-weight Hiking Boots Camp Trainers / Trekking Sandals 4-5 Pairs of Trekking Socks & 1 Pair of Thermal socks 80-90L Waterproof Duffle Bag & 20-30L Daypack 4-Season Sleeping Bag Insulated Sleeping Mat Water Bottles or 2-3 liter Hydration Bladder Water Purification Tablets Baby Wipes Sweat Resistant Suncream Blister Platers Insect Repellant General Medications (Paracetamol, Imodium) Passport, Visa, Insurance, Yellow Fever Card (if applicable)

Personal experience of the climb

There’s no technical element to Kilimanjaro - the days are long, tough, hiking. As you get higher up, the altitude makes it even harder. The train is rough and steep in some parts, as you climb higher there can be frost underfoot. The pace is very slow. In the beginning, you might feel it’s too slow - but as you get past 10,000ft, you’ll be glad of the steady, even pace, conserving energy and helping acclimatization. It’s cold. The first couple of days, through the forest you would be forgiven for thinking that this was going to be a long, hot hike - at night the temperature drops, and it’s not unusual for there to be frost on the outside of your tent. As you trek higher, closer to the summit, the days can be freezing cold, the frosty mountain air chilling you. Your day starts early, and getting out of your sleeping bag can be difficult on a cold mountain morning. After a good, hearty breakfast you’ll have a health check - your guide will ask you how you’re feeling (yes, do be honest!) and then possibly use a stethoscope to listen for lung sounds and check your oxygen saturation. On the trail, every day is a bit different. The weather can change quickly, especially as you get higher up, so one minute you might be peeling off layers in the sun, and the next you might be pulling on a raincoat. You’ll normally have lunch somewhere on the trail - depending on your operator, this could be a picnic or a full cooked lunch. Normally around tea-time, you’ll arrive at camp - your tent is ready and waiting and it’s important to change out of the day’s clothing. Particularly if you got at all wet. Eat well at dinner, even if you’re not feeling it. Sometimes altitude can make you feel less hungry than normal - but your body needs all the fuel it can get. The guide will often give you a briefing of the next day’s highlights, and need-to-knows. Early nights are normal, as you’ll be conserving energy and recovering. Have you climbed Kilimanjaro recently? Are you planning to? Let us know in the comments... Check out another great story about Hiking the High Sierra Trail

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Hiking Havasu Falls - The Havasupai Adventure

Have you ever thought of hiking Havasu Falls? You've probably seen photographs floating around the internet of incredible blue-green waterfalls crashing over high cliffs against the colorful backdrop of the Grand Canyon. You might assume the pictures are enhanced. Nothing could be that color. But it can, and it is at Havasupai. On an earlier trip to trek to Phantom Ranch in the Grand Canyon, I met a fellow hiker who had made the journey to this unearthly landscape, and he swore that the water was that color. It was even better in person. -Read 7 Best Hikes near Seattle-

I knew then that I needed to visit Havasupai and needed to be hiking Havasu Falls myself.

A quick internet search revealed that reservations and permits were difficult to obtain, opening up on a specific day each year and selling out within hours. Backpacking and camping equipment is necessary unless lodge accommodations in the village of Supai are secured. Opting for a guided hike left nothing to chance with permitting, and in February I arrived at Sky Harbour International Airport to make my way to Flagstaff, Arizona to meet my fearless leader, Emily.

Checking into the hotel, I prepare for my meeting with Emily.

Wildland Trekking provided me with a comprehensive list of gear to bring, and I begin putting the necessary items into the backpack that I’ll carry, Emily, an accomplished hiker who has backpacked over 3,500 miles including a thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail, meets me in the lobby to answer questions, go over gear, and talk a little about where we’re going. It’s just the two of us, and we agree to meet at 6:30 AM to make the 3-hour drive to the Hualapai Hilltop where our ten-mile journey to the Falls will begin. We exit I-40 passing through the small town of Seligman, the inspiration for the animated film Cars, located on Route 66. We stop for the last real coffee and then make our way along two-lane highways through the tribal land to the Hilltop.

Arriving at Hualapai Hilltop, the gateway to Havasupai, we leave our camping gear and food by a shipping container, keeping only our backpacks, lunch, snacks, and water, to be transported via horse by members of the tribe.

There’s a helicopter pad, some outhouses, and the trailhead, Descending along the rocky switchbacks we begin the 8-mile trek to the village of Supai where we’ll check-in and then make our way to the falls, another two miles or so. The switchbacks are only about a mile and a half long and then the trail levels out. It’s rocky, and sandy, at times almost like moon dust. Progressing down the canyon, the walls grower higher and the canyon narrows. Emily points at various markings along the way and talks about the history and the geology of the land. Stopping at the midway point for lunch, we set up a small picnic on some rocks to enjoy.  A large black crow hovers overhead hoping for a scrap.  Continuing on we begin seeing some greenery and vegetation as we get closer to the village of Supai. Supai has been referred to as "the most remote community" in the contiguous United States by the US Department of Agriculture and is the capital of the Havasupai (which means people of the blue-green water) Indian Reservation.

The people of Supai don’t like to be photographed and ask that no pictures be taken in the village.

I ask Emily if the tribe has a love/hate relationship with the hikers, and she replies that it’s more like tolerate/hate. Tourism is the primary source of income for the tribe. I've been warned that people may not talk to me, but a gentleman strikes up a conversation while I’m resting on a bench in front of the small general store. He asks about the hike and tells me about his job delivering the mail. He talks about life in the village, and I thank him, expressing gratitude for being allowed to visit.

About a mile past Supai we arrive at Fifty-Foot Falls, the first of five.

Next up is Navajo Falls. Stopping briefly at each for some pics, we press on toward the campground. The descent is much steeper now. Soon we arrive at the most famous of the falls, Havasu Falls. I was worried that it wouldn’t be like the pictures, and it wasn’t. It was even more stunning in person. Magnificent turquoise water pouring over a massive limestone cliff hydrates the entrance to this lush canyon oasis located in the middle of a harsh desert landscape. The juxtaposition is incredible!

Exhausted, I climb into my tent after dinner and immediately fall asleep.

It’s only 7:30 pm, darkness falls fast in this canyon. Waking up in the middle of the night I unzip the tent flaps and peak out. It’s a sliver shy of a full moon, and there are millions of stars smeared across the sky. Pulling on my hat, some extra layers, and my boots, I step outside and make my way quietly through the campground, hiking back to Havasu Falls. It’s just me, and the scene is ethereal. I don't know how long I sat there taking in the spectacular and ghostly view. My mind suggested it was a dream; my knees assured me that it wasn’t. Reluctantly, I head back to camp to rest for the next day’s exploration.

Day two finds us tackling Mooney Falls, the tallest and most forceful of the five.

You may have seen the somewhat infamous tunnels and ladders that must be negotiated to get to the bottom of Mooney. Definitely daunting; completely worth it.  From here you can trek further down the canyon to Beaver Falls; this involves several water crossings. It's February,  so we choose to head back to Fifty-Foot Falls for a picnic lunch. After, we'll explore some of the side canyons looking for fossils and even visit an abandoned silver mine. Night falls quickly, and we return to camp for dinner and rest before the hike out the next morning. Emily reminds me to grab a couple of snacks for my pack. We’ll leave right after breakfast and have lunch when we get back to the van.

What goes down, must go back up.

 It’s relatively steep until we reach the village where the trail levels out until the last mile and half.  This is where we begin to climb. Slow and steady wins the race and before I know it we’re back at the van eating lunch and heading back to Flagstaff. -Read Best Hiking in Ireland- I jump in the shower when I get back to the hotel, and watch as the canyon dust turns the water a reddish-brown as it swirls down the drain. Tomorrow, I'll make my way back to Phoenix and return to Alabama - at the end of an incredible adventure that I'll never forget. Now gather some friends and get hiking Havasu Falls for your next adventure!

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Hiking Tweedsmuir in the heart of Chilcotin from Turner Lake

What if I told you that you could take a hike or a flight, to a mountain lake and find a canoe and gear waiting for you.  You could take the canoe out to explore a chain of lakes teeming with cutthroat trout and surrounded by glacier-capped peaks.  You camp on beaches and watch the sun set over the pristine mountains. Best of all, you might go days without seeing another soul. Welcome to British Columbia’s Tweedsmuir South Provincial Park. Tweedsmuir is one of BC’s hidden gems.  BC has quite a few of them, actually. The northern two-thirds of the province is forever getting ignored on those “top adventures in BC” lists.  Here’s a secret: That’s where they all are. And while part of me wants to keep them secret, the other part knows that the folks willing to make the effort to get there deserve that sliver of paradise. Tweedsmuir itself isn’t actually that hard to access.  At the heart of the Chilcotin, it’s just a day’s drive from Vancouver (albeit a very long day).  Hikers can park and be in the colorful alpine of the Rainbow Range in a matter of hours and spend days wandering up peaks and camping in the valleys.  Access to the Turner Lake Chain is a bit trickier, but you don’t need to plan as far ahead as the more famous Bowron Lake Chain to the east.

Quick Facts

Time: 3-5 days Distance: 25 km (15.5 miles) Fees: CDN $5 per night for camping, $40 per day for canoe rental, plus costs of flights if you choose not to walk in. Portages: Seven in total, though some can be skipped.  The longest is 500 m. Facilities:  All campsites are equipped with pit toilets, fire rings, and bear caches.  They are all well maintained by the park operator. Turner Lake West camp also has lakes . Difficulty: Moderate - the creeks can be portaged, but wind can make travel on the lakes dangerous.

Why We Chose Turner Lake

We went to Tweedsmuir on our honeymoon for two weeks of hiking and canoeing.  Tweedsmuir was a great choice. My husband loves the Chilcotins and I had the Rainbow Range on my bucket list.  Plus it was just a few hours away from our new home in the Caribou.

How to Get There

Tweedsmuir is located 217 miles west of Williams Lake.  The highway is a windy one so it can take over six hours to navigate. There are two ways to get to the Turner Lake Chain - flying from Nimpo Lake, or hiking from the trail head at the Atnarko River.  Either way, you’ll want to stop at the Tweedsmuir Air base at Stewart’s Lodge on Nimpo Lake to pay for a canoe rental and back country fees. Walking The turnoff to the trail head is another 30 miles down the highway, then another 10 miles down a rough gravel road (4x4 required) along the Atnarko River.  The Atnarko is famous for its abundant grizzly bear population, so keep your eyes out and bear spray ready. From the trail head, it’s another 7.5-mile hike to the Tweedsmuir Wilderness Camp at the north end of Turner Lake.  From there, you can pick up your cane and be on your way. The hike is a 6-9 hour slog with a 2600 ft elevation gain.  I was lucky enough to skip it, but reports make the trail seem pretty tedious. BC Parks recommends doing the first part of the trail in the late morning or early afternoon when the bears are resting.  Bring bear spray and make lots of noise so you don’t surprise a snoozing bear.

Flying Since it was our honeymoon and we splurged and got ourselves a plain.  Fly with Tweedsmuir Air out of Nimpo Lake. The flight will cost CDN $350 for a Cessna (2-3 people) or $525 for a Beaver (4-6 people).  Flying will also get you a bird’s eye view of Canada’s Largest unbroken waterfall, Hunlen Falls.

What to Pack

Bear spray:  Tweedsmuir has one of the highest densities of apex predators in the world.  Firearms are not allowed in BC parks (so bear spray is a must). Good rain gear: We spent some time above Turner Lake before the trip and spent one miserable day hiking in the snow and rain, plus met a few afternoon storms.  Good rain gear is a must. Fishing rod and fishing license:  The fish pretty much catch themselves on the Turner Lake Chain.  Leave your bait at home. The whole chain has a bait ban (and fishing is so easy, it’s really not needed). Life jackets, bailing buckets, and paddles are all provided at the park operator.  

Our Story

Our trip to Tweedsmuir was actually our honeymoon, so we splurged on flights both ways.  We flew into Ptarmigan Lake, about 12 km uphill from Turner Lake and spent a few days climbing mountains before heading to the lake.  We did the chain in five leisurely days. Day 1: After hiking the 12 km down from Turner Lake, we paddled around 3 km to Turner Lake West Camp.  We had splurged on a cabin and were thankful because it had absolutely poured for the last 24 hours. The cabin was $50 with a wood stove and some basic furniture.  I was thankful for it, but under most conditions, it wouldn’t have been worth it. Day 2:  We paddled the remainder of Turner Lake, plus the small Cutthroat and Vista Lakes.  It was a leisurely day despite the four short portages. The Junker Lake camp was set on a long sandy beach facing stunning mountain views to the south.  We didn’t feel totally welcome though. A loon took it upon itself to break out its territorial display when Clay decided to take a dip. Day 3: We woke up to rain and decided to wait it out, and it was late morning by the time we got underway.  It was another short day as we paddled through Wigeon Lake and landed ourselves at Kidney Lake. We again had the campground to ourselves and settled ourselves on a peninsula to watch the sunset as we feasted on our trout dinner. Day 4: We got up early to paddle across the lake to the Sunshine Lake trail head.  We brought our own paddle and the fishing rod for the one hour hike to Sunshine Lake.  There is a rustic campsite there, but we settled for a snack and a bit of unsuccessful fishing.  There was a canoe there, but with only one paddle, getting around was more effort than it was worth, so we didn’t go far. When we got back to Kidney Lake, the wind had picked up, so we long lined the canoe along the shore until we found a sheltered spot to get in. After a long paddle back to camp, hugging the shore to avoid the rough water, we packed up and backtracked to Widgeon Lake.  This was easily our favorite site, with a secluded white sand beach and another sunset view. There was actually someone else at this camp, and we enjoyed an evening sitting around the campfire making new friends. Day 5: This was our longest day.  After paddling back to Turner Lake and setting up camp at the western campsite (our pickup location), we paddled to the south end for a hike to Hunlen Falls.  At around 650 - 1350 ft (sources vary widely), Hunlen Falls is Canada’s third tallest waterfall and with the largest continuous drop in the country. It is nothing short of spectacular.  A 30-minute walk took us to a vertigo inducing, unfenced lookout. We had to crawl to the edge to get a good view! The next day was lounged around at camp until the plane came to take us home at noon.

While You’re in the Area

Hunlen Falls: I’ve already mentioned the falls, but don’t do Turner Lakes without visiting them.  They are 100% worth the side trip. Pictures don’t do it justice. Atnarko Bear Viewing: If you are in Tweedsmuir during the salmon run in September, don’t miss the bear viewing platform at the Atnarko River, just down the road from the turnoff to Hunlen Falls.   BC Parks brings in rangers from all over the province to give you a safe (and free) chance to watch grizzlies feed on the salmon. Rainbow Range:  With easy access from the highway, you can do the Rainbow Range as a day hike or spend a few days wandering around exploring the unique alpine landscape. Bella Coola:  The tiny town of Bella Coola is just 45 minutes down the road from Tweedsmuir.  The highway is famed for its steep descent to the ocean, so be prepared for a driving adventure.  The town offers a remote wilderness setting and a taste of Nuxalk (the local Indigenous people) culture.

Some Final Thoughts

The campsites were well maintained and designed for more people than we saw.  I hear a rumor that it was once busier. It’s actually one of the reasons I want to share this trip so badly.  The contractors who maintain the sites operate as a business. They were doing a good job and deserve more business. The tent pads were freshly raked, the outhouses clean and stocked with toilet paper.  These are perks I expect in the busier back country near Vancouver - not in the Chilcotin. Even the storms were amazing! Watch our trip on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rJ7v1lXpr3U Read the full article

RedRock Falls Hike near Many Glacier Hotel

Many Glacier Hotel is situated in the heart of Glacier National Park. You are literally surrounded by mountains and beautiful scenery in all directions with easy access to activities like fishing, hiking, horseback riding, native american tours and whitewater rafting. One of my favorite hikes near Many Glacier is the RedRock Falls Hike. This is a fairly easy and level hike that can be done by the whole family with a tremendous reward often associated with longer, harder hikes. Remember, if you need more information or looking to plan a Montana trip in the future....Glacier Country Montana is a great resource!

RedRock Falls Stats: What to see: Lakes, waterfalls, wildlife and scenic views Length of Hike: 4.2 miles roundtrip Elevation Gain: 285 feet Trail Difficulty: Easy Highest Elevation: 5145 Feet

How to get to RedRock Falls Hike

RedRock Falls Hike trailhead is located at the Swiftcurrent Pass trailhead. The trailhead is located at the far end of the parking area for the Swiftcurrent Motor Inn at the end of Many Glacier Road. It is about a 1.2 mile walk from Many Glacier Hotel or you can drive and park at the trailhead. Make sure you park in designated parking spots as park rangers do give tickets to illegally parked cars.

Hiking to the Falls

After leaving the trailhead you reach Fishercap lake about one third of a mile in. This lake is worth a quick stop to take in the views and snap some photos. There is also a small beach area that can be used for a family picnic or possibly spot a moose in the morning or early evenings. As you leave Fishercap lake you will begin hiking through aspens and some beautiful forest. There are a few open areas as you make your way to your next stop at 1.7 miles in, RedRock Lake. Make sure to keep looking to your right on the cliffs as you may spot mountain goats. From Redrock lake you can take in views of Mt. Grinnell, Swiftcurrent Glacier and Swiftcurrent Mountain.

From here you work your way along the shore of the lake to the other side where you come to a split in the trail at around 2 miles from the trailhead. To the left brings you to lower RedRock Falls and to the right brings you to upper RedRock Falls. I recommend exploring both areas as you can get some ridiculously good pictures from both locations.  I enjoy scrambling over the rocks of the falls and getting unique angles of nature at it's finest.

Looking for more hikes around the world? Hiking the Rice Terraces of Banaue Best Hikes Near Seattle Ireland Hikes and Adventure Read the full article

What to do at the US National Whitewater Center

..Do you want to spend a relaxing day by the water, lounging in a hammock and listening to some live music?  Feel like an active day mountain biking on an extensive trail system? How about a day rafting and pushing yourself to the limit on a rope course and zipline?  Maybe you want a chill day doing some yoga or stand up paddleboarding? The US National Whitewater Center in Charlotte, North Carolina can provide all of these activities, and more! Thanks to living fairly close to the USNWC, I have been able to spend over 10 weekends there over the past few years.  On my very first visit, my only plan was to try the rafting as I had no idea all the other activities that they offered.  I was pleasantly surprised to see just how many other activities they offered and the wide variety of events that they host, even in the colder months.   Other Articles That May Interest You Best Hikes Near Seattle Hiking in Ireland and Other Adventures Best Survival Axes

USNWC Overview

They have an extensive selection of adrenaline-pumping adventure activities and many calmer activities for those looking to relax and socialize.  Activities I have tried include their trails (both running and mountain biking), ropes course, forest zip line, whitewater rafting, flatwater kayaking, rock climbing, obstacle course race, trail races, and food truck festivals.   A few things still on my list to try in 2020 are the whitewater kayaking, stand up paddleboarding, the zip line over the rapids, and the recently added ice skating rink which includes a skate up bar! As I mentioned, many people come to the USNWC not to participate in any of the adventure sports, but just to socialize and enjoy the atmosphere at one of their many festivals.  You can bring your own chairs or your own hammock to strap to one of their provided hammock stands and set up right by the rapids to watch all the action.

USNWC Festivals

At the festivals, they usually have a variety of competitions to watch, yoga, food trucks, vendors selling adventure gear, and local bands playing.  The USNWC also offers movie nights which usually highlight outdoor or adventure-themed stories. Are you getting the itch to visit, yet? Let me sweeten the pot for those of you who are animal lovers - they are pet-friendly!  Dogs must be kept on a leash, but are welcome throughout the property. I've brought my pup along several times and she loves finding new furry friends there.

My three favorite festivals at the USNWC:

Tuck Fest - held annually at the end of April Fall Festival with the Build Your Own Boat Competition Green River Revival includes Color Me Green Run and Live Music

Though I'm not a runner, I have participated in several 5k races at the USNWC to push myself into trying new things.   They have a wide variety of trail races which provide such good scenery in the woods, but all the switchbacks and elevation changes provided quite a challenge as I'd only run street races in the past. For something a little less challenging, I would recommend the Color Me Green Run that they hold around St. Patrick's Day.  On this day, they dye the whitewater rapids green for the day, and during the race, you get green coloring thrown at you at intervals along the way, so you definitely won't get pinched! Another new option they added in 2019 was their Scrambler Obstacle course race which I believe they will offer again in 2020.  This event was run in teams of 2 and each team had to navigate and work together to get through each obstacle throughout the race.  My teammate and I finished close to the back of the pack on this one as it was quite a feat to get through the obstacles, but we still had a blast.

Cold weather races that are still on my bucket list:

We Believe Santa 5k and Dog Jog Frigid 5k Race and Polar Plunge The USNWC is constantly evolving and adding new events and activities. They are installing an ice skating rink for the first time at the end of 2019.  If you're planning a visit this year or next, go ahead and sign up for their newsletter. Then you can be kept up to date on their entire schedule!

Tips for your first visit to the US National Whitewater Center

There is a restaurant that has both indoor and outdoor seating. They also have an area by the rapids where you can purchase food and beer. Plus an area to buy energy bars and sports drinks. There is a gift shop where you can pick up USNWC merchandise along with a lot of other outdoor gear.  If you participate in one of their races, sometimes you will receive discounts at their gift shop. Bring your own sunscreen and chairs or blankets if coming for the festivals, movies, and concerts. There are lockers available to leave your belongings while you participate in the activities.  Fees are $2 per use for small ones or $10 per day for storage bins for larger bags. If going with friends, try to carpool so you only have to pay for one parking fee. If rafting, it is likely you may take a dip in the water because the guides like to do things like send your boat down the rapids backward.  I personally have not fallen in, but have seen many other rafters in the water. Don't worry though, they have guides with lifelines around every corner, so you won't be in danger. You can rent mountain bikes and they have trails with several levels of difficulty. There is a climbing wall with auto-belay ropes as well as several climbing walls that are over the water that you see pictured below On Friday evenings from May through September, they offer a wide variety of FREE clinics on outdoor and sporting topics.

Other Activities at US National Whitewater Center

The USNWC offers many other services for those wanting to further their education. It is also great for companies wanting to build camaraderie among their employees. Certifications and Instruction Team Development Field Trips Summer Camps Adventure Dining

Pricing and Parking at the US National Whitewater Center

Now that you have a good feel for the activities they offer, you might be wondering if admission costs an arm and a leg!   I have found their prices to be quite reasonable compared to similar venues. You can see the prices below, but one thing I love about them is that you don't have to purchase a pass to enter the facility.    After parking is paid (usually $6 per vehicle), you are free to enjoy their festivals and just relax by the water.  To participate in any of the sporting activities, you will need to purchase a pass and a reservation is recommended for the rafting since there are only a certain number of slots each day.  If you plan to visit more than a few times per year, the season pass is absolutely worth the money. I definitely recommend arriving early on festival and race days to avoid the crowds as it is quite a popular place.

Whether you live in the Southeast US or if you're looking for vacation inspiration for 2020, you won't be disappointed with a trip to the US National Whitewater Center.  I'd recommend making a whole weekend out of it.   So, what do you think?  Will I see you there in 2020?  If you're looking for something unique to do for New Year's Eve, why not join me at their inaugural New Year's Eve Trail Race?  Start your race in 2019 and end in 2020! ABOUT THE AUTHOR Emily is a nutrition and movement coach certified by The Institute for Integrative Nutrition. She has made it her goal to plank in every continent. After struggling with serious health issues for several years, she learned the importance of embracing healthy living both at home and on her travels. She started her blog, The Planking Traveler as a way to share her passion for wellness with others. Her goal is to inspire you to embrace enjoyable movement and optimal nutrition as a sustainable lifestyle instead of just a temporary fix to lose weight. Follow along with her healthy adventures on Facebook and Instagram. Read the full article

RedRock Falls Hike near Many Glacier Hotel

Many Glacier Hotel is situated in the heart of Glacier National Park. You are literally surrounded by mountains and beautiful scenery in all directions with easy access to activities like fishing, hiking, horseback riding, native american tours and whitewater rafting. One of my favorite hikes near Many Glacier is the RedRock Falls Hike. This is a fairly easy and level hike that can be done by the whole family with a tremendous reward often associated with longer, harder hikes. Remember, if you need more information or looking to plan a Montana trip in the future....Glacier Country Montana is a great resource!

RedRock Falls Stats: What to see: Lakes, waterfalls, wildlife and scenic views Length of Hike: 4.2 miles roundtrip Elevation Gain: 285 feet Trail Difficulty: Easy Highest Elevation: 5145 Feet

How to get to RedRock Falls Hike

RedRock Falls Hike trailhead is located at the Swiftcurrent Pass trailhead. The trailhead is located at the far end of the parking area for the Swiftcurrent Motor Inn at the end of Many Glacier Road. It is about a 1.2 mile walk from Many Glacier Hotel or you can drive and park at the trailhead. Make sure you park in designated parking spots as park rangers do give tickets to illegally parked cars.

Hiking to the Falls

After leaving the trailhead you reach Fishercap lake about one third of a mile in. This lake is worth a quick stop to take in the views and snap some photos. There is also a small beach area that can be used for a family picnic or possibly spot a moose in the morning or early evenings. As you leave Fishercap lake you will begin hiking through aspens and some beautiful forest. There are a few open areas as you make your way to your next stop at 1.7 miles in, RedRock Lake. Make sure to keep looking to your right on the cliffs as you may spot mountain goats. From Redrock lake you can take in views of Mt. Grinnell, Swiftcurrent Glacier and Swiftcurrent Mountain.

From here you work your way along the shore of the lake to the other side where you come to a split in the trail at around 2 miles from the trailhead. To the left brings you to lower RedRock Falls and to the right brings you to upper RedRock Falls. I recommend exploring both areas as you can get some ridiculously good pictures from both locations.  I enjoy scrambling over the rocks of the falls and getting unique angles of nature at it's finest.

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What to do in Dubai for Adventure: 15 Awesome Activities in Dubai

Dubai is known for its opulent architecture, lavish malls, never-ending deserts, and rich culture. But there is more to the city beyond its glitz and glamour. Would you believe that the city also has an adventurous side to it? Yes, it is true. If you crave for some thrill and excitement, then here is the ultimate list of what to do in Dubai for Adventure. It is time to try something offbeat in Dubai and indulge in some awesome activities in Dubai.

Dhow Dinner Cruise

Credit: beccacantpark Flickr The Dhow dinner cruise is one of the most fascinating experiences in Dubai. Sail along the Dubai Marina on a traditionally decorated wooden boat. This 2-hour cruise lets you experience Arabian hospitality to the fullest. Take in picturesque views of the city sailing past and spot some iconic landmarks such as the Rolex Tower and the Logo Island. Spend a night under the twinkling stars while you sit back and enjoy some cultural performances such as Tanura Dance Show. Enjoy a delicious buffet dinner with mouth-watering local and international delicacies.

Hot Air Balloon Dubai

What better way to experience the deserts of Dubai than to go on a hot air balloon ride? Watch the mesmerizing view of the rising sun against the backdrop of the Hajjar Mountains from 4000 feet above the ground. If you are lucky you can spot some gazelles, camels, and Arabian oryx in the sand below. Enjoy the antics of the falcons as these intelligent birds keep you entertained. Once you touch down, enjoy a gourmet breakfast consisting of a spread of local and international dishes. >>>One of the Best places for hot air balloons

Dubai ZipLine

The longest and fastest zipline in the world is located over Dubai Marina. Measuring one kilometer, and a speed of 80 km/h, XLine has an incline of 16 degrees and is also of the steepest ziplines around the globe. Two parallel zip lines are running currently so you can enjoy the company of a friend or family member with you. You can feast your eyes on the jaw-dropping views of the Dubai Marina. The age criteria for this activity is between 12-65 years and a minor has to be accompanied by a legal guardian. The best part is that you get to carry pictures and videos of the entire activity. 

Dubai Museum of Illusions

One of the Middle East's most unique attractions, the Museum of Illusions provides you with an unforgettable experience. The place houses 80 plus exhibits that will play with your mind, challenge your senses, and leave you utterly confused. Nothing is what it looks like. Deceive your senses with various optical illusions, holograms, and photo illusions. Some of the famous attractions here are the Chair Illusion, Vortex Tunnel, the Infinity Room, and the Ames Room. 

Hatta Heritage Village

Credit PYP Flickr Visit the Hatta village to get a sneak-peek into the Emirati life centuries ago. Owned by the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, this village was restored in 2001 and consists of approximately 30 buildings. Located in the Hajar mountains, this village has a fort, two watchtowers, and a mosque. The original structure of the house was made with natural materials such as mud, palm fronds, and stone and are still retained. Don't forget to visit the house of the local chief, called Bait Al Wali. The village museum houses a wonderful collection of exhibits such as weapons, furnishing, crockery, jewelry, handicrafts, and musical instruments. The palm tree farm nearby called Al-Sharia Site uses one of the oldest irrigation systems called Falaj and is a must-visit. 

Mountain Biking in Dubai

Head out of the city to enjoy a wild day out in the rugged terrains of the mountains. Mountain Biking has gained a lot of popularity in Dubai in recent years. The hilly region of Hatta is the most picturesque destination in UAE for mountain biking. The roads can easily be navigated by amateurs and professionals with difficult levels of difficulty. There are many bike rentals options in the city to cater to your needs.

Sky Dive Dubai

In recent years, skydiving has become one of the most popular adventure sports. And now you can experience this thrilling activity in Dubai. Experience a free fall at the rate of 120 miles an hour, from a height of 13000 feet above the ground. Witness breathtaking views of incredible Palm Jumeirah or the Arabian desert. You can also witness some of the fascinating sights of the city from above. You also get to carry a video of your sky diving experience that you can cherish for life. This is a prime example of what to do in Dubai that you should certainly not miss. 

Dubai Aquaventure Waterpark

Aquaventure Waterpark is one of the largest and best waterparks in UAE. It has more than 30 thrill slides and attractions. Relax at a 500-meter private beach or enjoy Dubai's longest river, the Lazy River. Ride through the twisting Aquaconda water tunnel or battle with the King of the Sea at the Tower of Poseidon. Explore the ruins of the lost city of Atlantis and get some interesting information on marine life. Visit the Lost Chambers Aquarium that houses more than 65000 aquatic animals such as sharks, stingrays, sea lions, and dolphins.

Ski Dubai Snow Park

Credit 123_456 Flickr This is your chance to experience snow bang in the middle of the desert. Located in the magnificent Mall of the Emirates, Ski Dubai is an indoor ski resort. It is the perfect opportunity to take a break from the scorching heat of Dubai and cool off at the ski park. It has an 85-meter high mountain with different levels of slopes and an ice cave. You can take part in activities such as snowboarding, tobogganing, and skiing. There are rides such as chairlift, snow bumpers, zorb ball, and a mountain thrill ride. The most delightful part is the March of the Penguins where these exotic creatures perform various activities that will surely leave you amazed. 

Desert Safari Dubai

Deserts are synonymous with Dubai and your trip is incomplete without a trip to the vast deserts of the city. Brace yourself for a bumpy ride across the desert in a 4x4 vehicle. Indulge in some exciting activities such as quad biking, sandboarding, and dune bashing. Retire to the Bedouin campsite for some unique Emirati experience. You can take pictures in traditional Arabic garments, smoke a shisha pipe, ride a camel, and the womenfolk can get their hands painted with Henna. Enjoy some cultural performances such as Belly Dancing, Tanura Dance show, and Fire show. Relish a lip-smacking BBQ dinner with an array of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Put this item of what to do in Dubai on your bucket list. 

Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo

Credit globetraveller Flickr Located in Dubai Mall, the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo is one of the largest indoor aquariums in the world. It also holds the Guinness World Record for the 'Largest Acrylic Panel'. It houses over 30000 marine animals consisting of over 140 species. You can get up, close, and personal with sharks, piranhas, stingrays, sea horses, crabs, penguins, jellyfish, and more. There is even a terrifying King Croc weighing approximately 750 kgs and the largest collection of sand tiger sharks. 

Camel Polo in Dubai

Credit landrovermena Flickr The traditional camel race gets a makeover in the form of Camel Polo. Camels have been an integral part of the Arabian culture for a very long time. And Camel Polo is a favorite pastime of the locals for many years now. The only difference is that the traditional jockeys have been replaced with Robot jockeys that are controlled by operators driving in SUVs alongside the camels. This is through and through a complete entertaining experience. 

IMG World of Adventure

Credit rollercoasterphilosophy Flickr This majestic indoor park spans across an area of 2.5 million square feet. Enjoy some adrenaline-pumping attractions at the Marvel Zone. Get up, close, and personal with your favorite superheroes such as Iron Man, Thor, Hulk, Spider-Man and others. Your most loved cartoon characters such as Powerpuff Girls and Ben 10 come to life in the Cartoon Network Zone. Enter the prehistoric era in the Lost Valley zone which is home to some of the most gripping rides such as Dino Carousel, Predator, The Velociraptor, and Forbidden Territory.

Dubai Seaplane Flight

The Dubai Seaplane takes you on an aerial journey that will leave you enthralled. The ride takes around 20 or 45 minutes based on the package you choose. Take off from the dazzling waters of the Persian Gulf and enjoy the spectacular sights of Dubai's skyline. Feast your eyes on some awe-inspiring sights of the most celebrated wonders of Dubai such as the Burj Khalifa, Palm Islands, Hotel Burj Al Arab, Dubai Creek, Dubai Marina, and Hotel Atlantis, The Palm among others. There is no better way to experience the splendid beauty of Dubai. 

Water Activities at Jumeirah Beach

There are many pristine beaches in Dubai which have become a favorite hangout of locals and tourist alike. One of them is Jumeirah Beach that caters to all your water sports needs. The safety and security of people are top-notch, so you need not worry. There are multiple activities such as jet skiing, wake-boarding, banana boat ride, donut ride, fly fish, seabreacher ride, and scuba diving to name a few. This is a perfect place to spend a leisure day with your family. >>Best Beaches in Washington

Plan your Dubai Trip Now

Dubai gives you an amazing opportunity to experience a wide variety of water and land-based activities. Dubai adventures and activities are what make this city an interesting travel destination. So next time you are in this fabulous city, let go of yourself and indulge in a bit of daredevilry. This article was written by Neha Singh

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