#Goats and Glacier Lookout

[thorsenmark]

My Refuge Amongst the Mountains of Jasper National Park by Mark Stevens Via Flickr: While at an overlook pullout along the Icefields Parkway with a view looking to the south-southeast to the ridges and peaks of the Hooker Icefield with Mount Brussels (Brussels Peak) and Mount Christie. This is at the Goats and Glacier Lookout in Jasper National Park. With this image, I decided to zoom in with the focal length and have those glacial carved ridges and peaks fill the image from edge to edge with portions caught in the morning sunlight.

[rinasmamoon]

Goats and Glaciers Lookout.

[chalkerhive-blog]

22nd May 2024

Today we left for Jasper via the Icefields Parkway. It is claimed as the most scenic drive in the world and was amazing. We did have sun, rain, snow and low cloud, but we still managed to stop at 10 spots. Before we even got to the Parkway, Jane spotted cars stopped on the side and saw a bear. She was so excited for her first bear in the wild. Luckily it was behind the fencing, so it was safe to get out of the car. It was also nice seeing the animal crossing points that have been built over the highway.

We then stopped at Hector Lake, Crowfoot Glacier Viewpoint, Bow Lake (which was frozen and lovely), Waterfowl Lakes Viewpoint, Bridal Veil Falls, Columbia Ice Field (very busy and terrible weather so didn't stay long), Tangle Creek Falls, Goats & Glacier Lookout, A nice stop with no name at the river, and Athabasca Falls which were great, the falls had taken different routes over time and we could walk through the old channels. Michael also found good use of the brush/scraper stick that was in the back of the hire car.

We made it to Jasper and our accommodation at Pyramid Lodge overlooking Pyramid Lake. We purchased bear spray in case we met any bears a few days ago but Michael has just been carrying it around. We hiked to Pyramid Island (not far) and had a look around. Still no bears. The one on the highway didn't really count as it was behind a fence.

We headed into Jasper for dinner and Bella spotted a beautiful Snow Rainbow.

[travelluxegroup]

From Glaciers to Hot Springs – Capturing the Best of Canadian Rockies in Style

Exploring the Majestic Canadian Rockies The Canadian Rocky Mountains are some of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the world. With towering peaks reaching heights of over 10,000 feet and pristine glacial lakes, the Rockies offer endless opportunities for adventure and exploration. Here are some of the best ways to experience the majestic Canadian Rockies: Hiking With over 1,600 miles of trails, hiking is one of the best ways to experience the beauty of the Rockies. From easy day hikes to multi-day backpacking trips, there is a trail for everyone. Some of the most popular hikes include the Plain of Six Glaciers Trail, the Johnston Canyon Trail, and the Lake Agnes Trail. Wildlife Watching The Canadian Rockies are home to an incredible array of wildlife, including grizzly bears, elk, moose, and mountain goats. Visitors can take guided tours or simply keep a lookout while hiking or driving through the national parks to spot these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Skiing and snowboarding The Rockies are home to some of the best ski resorts in North America, including Banff, Lake Louise, and Whistler. With world-class slopes and stunning mountain scenery, skiing and snowboarding in the Rockies is an unforgettable experience. Hot Springs The Canadian Rockies are also home to a number of natural hot springs, which are perfect for soaking in after a long day of hiking or skiing. Some of the best hot springs include Banff Upper Hot Springs, Radium Hot Springs, and Miette Hot Springs. No matter how you choose to explore the Canadian Rockies, one thing is for certain – you will be awed by their majestic beauty and left with memories to last a lifetime. Soaking in Hot Springs: A Unique Experience There's something about hot springs that draws people from all over the world. Maybe it's the hot, mineral-rich water that's believed to have healing properties. Maybe it's the stunning natural landscapes that often surround these geothermal pools. Or maybe it's just the simple pleasure of soaking in warm water on a chilly day. Whatever the reason, visitors to the Canadian Rockies have a unique opportunity to experience some of the most picturesque hot springs in the world. Banff Upper Hot Springs Located in Banff National Park, the Banff Upper Hot Springs offer a stunning view of Mount Rundle. The mineral-rich water, which varies in temperature from 37°C to 40°C, is believed to have healing properties and is a popular destination year-round. Miette Hot Springs Located in Jasper National Park, Miette Hot Springs is the hottest mineral spring in the Rockies, with water temperatures reaching up to 54°C. The site also offers hiking trails and picnic areas for visitors to enjoy. Radium Hot Springs The Radium Hot Springs in Kootenay National Park are known for their distinctive orange mineral deposits that line the pool walls. The water temperatures range from 35°C to 47°C and visitors can also enjoy hiking trails and a nearby golf course. Fairmont Hot Springs Located in the town of Fairmont, these hot springs offer a range of activities in addition to soaking in the mineral-rich water, such as golfing, skiing, hiking, and mountain biking. The pools are kept at a comfortable temperature of 39°C and are open year-round. Whether you're looking for a relaxing way to unwind after a long day of hiking or skiing, or simply want to experience one of nature's most fascinating wonders, the hot springs of the Canadian Rockies are a destination not to be missed. Discovering the Wonders of Glaciers One of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders in the Canadian Rockies are the glaciers. These massive bodies of ice can be found in the high mountain passes, and offer breathtaking views and opportunities for adventure. How are Glaciers Formed? Glaciers are formed when snow and ice accumulate faster than they can melt. Over time, the weight of the snow and ice causes it to compress, forming a thick layer of ice. As more snow and ice accumulates on top of this layer, the glacier grows larger and begins to flow downhill due to gravity. The Athabasca Glacier One of the most popular glaciers to visit in the Canadian Rockies is the Athabasca Glacier. This massive glacier can be seen from the Icefields Parkway, and there are several guided tours available that allow visitors to get up close and personal with this natural wonder. Visitors can also take a ride on a specially designed vehicle that allows them to walk directly onto the glacier. Glacier Adventure Tours If you're looking for an even more adventurous experience, there are several guided tours available that allow you to explore the glaciers in a more intimate way. These tours include guided hikes, ice climbing, and even helicopter rides over the glaciers. Protecting the Glaciers It's important to remember that glaciers are fragile ecosystems that are easily damaged by human activity. When visiting the glaciers, be sure to follow all posted rules and regulations, and avoid stepping off designated paths. Additionally, it's important to be mindful of the impact of climate change on these incredible natural wonders, and to do everything we can to protect them for future generations. Hiking Trails: A Guide to the Best The Plain of Six Glaciers Trail If you're looking for a moderately challenging hike in Banff National Park, the Plain of Six Glaciers Trail is a great pick. This 14.6 km trail leads you through lush forests and past stunning mountain vistas. Along the way, you'll have the opportunity to spot wildlife like grizzly bears, elk, and mountain goats. Once you reach the Plain of Six Glaciers Tea House, you'll be rewarded with stunning views of glaciers and the valley below. The Ink Pots Trail The Ink Pots Trail is a unique hike that allows you to see the colors of the Rockies up close. This 5.8 km trail leads you to a series of seven bright blue and green pools fed by glacial water. The hike itself is relatively easy, but the views are truly breathtaking. Don't forget to bring your camera! The Sulphur Skyline Trail The Sulphur Skyline Trail is one of the most rewarding hikes in Jasper National Park. This 8.1 km trail takes you to the top of a mountain where you'll have panoramic views of the park and its surroundings. Along the way, you'll pass through alpine meadows, past waterfalls, and over rocky terrain. The final climb to the summit is steep, but worth it for the stunning views. The Rockwall Trail For experienced hikers looking for a challenge, the Rockwall Trail in Kootenay National Park is a must-do. This 55 km trail takes you through a landscape of towering peaks, glaciers, and alpine meadows. You'll encounter steep climbs and descents, river crossings, and rugged terrain. The trail is typically done over 5-7 days and requires backcountry camping. The West Coast Trail The West Coast Trail is one of Canada's most famous hikes. This 75 km trail takes you along the rugged coastline of Vancouver Island, through rainforests, over suspension bridges, and past sea stacks. The trail is considered difficult and requires a permit to hike. Most hikers take 5-7 days to complete the trail, which features campsites and primitive facilities along the way. No matter which trail you choose, hiking in the Canadian Rockies is an unforgettable experience. Be sure to bring appropriate gear, including sturdy hiking boots, layers, and a map or GPS. Stay safe by following all park regulations and being mindful of wildlife. Happy trails! Wildlife Encounters: Where to Spot Them The Canadian Rockies is undoubtedly a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. With its diverse habitat, ranging from glaciers to hot springs, it offers a wide range of habitat for various species of animals. Here are some of the best places to spot wildlife in the Canadian Rockies: Banff National Park Banff National Park, the oldest national park in Canada, offers a prime location for spotting wildlife. The park is home to a variety of animals, including elk, moose, bison, wolves, coyotes, and even grizzly bears. The Bow Valley Parkway is a popular spot for wildlife viewing, and the Lake Louise area is another excellent location to spot animals like elk and black bears. Jasper National Park Jasper National Park, the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies, is home to a diverse range of animals. The park is home to the largest population of grizzly bears in the country, making it one of the best locations for bear sightings. Additionally, the park is home to caribou, elk, mountain goats, and bighorn sheep. The Maligne Lake area is a good spot for wildlife viewing. Waterton Lakes National Park Waterton Lakes National Park is located in the southwestern corner of Alberta and shares a border with Glacier National Park in Montana. The park is known for its scenic lakes and waterfalls, and it's also home to a variety of wildlife. The park is home to black bears, cougars, and bighorn sheep. The Red Rock Parkway is a popular spot for wildlife viewing. Yoho National Park Yoho National Park is situated on the western slope of the Continental Divide in the Canadian Rockies. The park is known for its stunning vistas and is home to a variety of wildlife. The park is home to black bears, grizzly bears, cougars, and moose. The Kicking Horse Pass area is a popular spot for wildlife viewing. In conclusion, the Canadian Rockies offer some of the best locations for wildlife viewing. Whether you're a seasoned wildlife enthusiast or just looking for a unique experience, the Canadian Rockies will not disappoint. Dining in Style: Best Restaurants in the Rockies When it comes to dining in the Canadian Rockies, there are plenty of options that cater to both foodies and casual diners alike. Here are some of the best restaurants in the Rockies that offer a diverse range of culinary experiences from casual to fine dining. 1. The Bison Restaurant The Bison Restaurant in Banff offers a farm-to-table experience, sourcing their ingredients from local farmers and ranchers. Their menu features Canadian cuisine with a contemporary twist, including dishes like bison short ribs and elk tartare. The restaurant also offers an extensive list of local beers and wines. 2. The Grizzly House The Grizzly House in Banff has been a popular spot since the 1960s for their fondue and game meats. The restaurant is designed to look like a hunting lodge and diners can cook their own meats and vegetables at their table in hot oil or broth. They have a selection of exotic meats like bison, elk, and alligator for those feeling adventurous. 3. The Lake House The Lake House in Calgary is a fine dining restaurant that offers stunning views of Lake Bonavista. Their menu features Canadian cuisine with a focus on seafood, including dishes like lobster linguine and pan-seared Arctic char. They also have an extensive wine list with bottles from regions all over the world. 4. The Rimrock Resort Hotel The Rimrock Resort Hotel in Banff is home to two fine dining restaurants: Eden and Primrose. Eden offers a six-course tasting menu that changes regularly based on seasonal ingredients. Primrose offers a la carte dining with a focus on Canadian and international cuisine. Both restaurants offer stunning mountain views. 5. The Trough Dining Co. The Trough Dining Co. in Canmore is a cozy and casual restaurant that focuses on local and seasonal ingredients. Their menu changes regularly to reflect what's available from their network of farmers and producers. They offer a range of dishes from small plates to larger entrees, all designed to be shared with friends and family. These are just a few of the many great restaurants to choose from in the Rockies. No matter what your taste, you're sure to find something that satisfies your cravings and leaves you feeling full and happy. Accommodation: Finding the Perfect Place to Stay When planning a trip to the Canadian Rockies, finding the perfect place to stay is crucial to ensure an enjoyable experience. With options ranging from rustic cabins to luxurious hotels, there is something to suit every budget and preference. Campgrounds and Cabins If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option that allows you to get up close and personal with nature, camping or staying in a cabin is a great choice. There are numerous campgrounds and cabins in the area, ranging from basic to fully equipped with modern amenities. Sleeping in the great outdoors is an experience like no other, and waking up to the sound of birds chirping and the smell of fresh pine will leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. Luxury Hotels and Resorts If you’re looking for a more indulgent experience, there are several luxury hotels and resorts in the Canadian Rockies that offer top-notch accommodations and amenities. From spa treatments to gourmet dining, these hotels are designed to provide a luxurious and relaxing stay. The iconic Banff Springs Hotel, for instance, offers guests unrivaled views and world-class amenities in the heart of Banff National Park. Vacation Rentals If you prefer the flexibility and privacy of your own space, vacation rentals are a great choice. There are many rental properties available in the Canadian Rockies, ranging from cozy cottages to sprawling mountain homes. With amenities such as full kitchens and private hot tubs, vacation rentals are a great option for families or groups of friends who want to enjoy the area together. No matter what type of accommodation you choose, be sure to book in advance, especially during peak tourist season. This will not only ensure you have a place to stay but will also give you more options to choose from. Happy travels! If you're interested in capturing stunning photos of Vietnam, don't forget to check out The Ultimate Guide to Luxury Photography Apparel for your Vietnam Trip for some helpful tips. Read the full article

[glaciernps]

Glacier is going solar!

This week, Glacier National Park hosted a ribbon-cutting for the solar panels on the park’s headquarters building to celebrate renewable energy! The 108 photovoltaic solar panels were installed last year and have already been helping to reduce energy costs and greenhouse gas emissions. Since going live, the panels have generated over 25,000 kWh of electricity in the past year. This equates to 39,013 pounds per year of carbon dioxide offset which is equivalent to planting 293 trees every year or driving the Going-to-the-Sun Road 880 times. The park also uses solar power at the Logan Pass Visitor Center, the Apgar Visitor Center, the Goat Haunt Pavilion, the Polebridge Ranger Station and at some of the park’s fire lookouts. Thank you to the Glacier National Park Conservancy and Everybody Solar for making this project possible!  

Learn more about sustainability at Glacier National Park: https://www.nps.gov/glac/getinvolved/sustainability.htm 

[comebeonetwothree]

Blog #8: Country Roads

07/13/2021

Currently driving through roads where pro-life billboards are placed in front of graveyards… we are officially on the road back home.

Traveling fast but seeing the most we have while covering 1,500 miles and two time zones in the last week. 900 miles to go. We jumped from Portland to northern and southern Montana then all the way through to Chicago… our last stop ;(

We met some really nice people out here- the kind of people that want to take time out of their day to interact with you. People actually smile at you and mean it when they say “have a good day.”

There were a lot of experiences this week that were indescribable. All senses were at full throttle from sleeping in the heart of Portland to camping in National Parks.

Being our last stretch of the trip, it has been hard to not feel sad when we are closing such a big chapter of our life. It’s a weird feeling of being sad but also still being so excited for the next stop. I hope the excitement doesn’t end.

Who

Who is ready to rumble…

In Portland we got to meet up with Maya’s cousin, Michael and his daughter Thea. He moved out there 13 years ago and never looked back.

He was telling us he did a similar trip with his college buddies back in the day and fell in love with the city, so moved there shortly after the trip.

Sounds fun, might fuck around and move…

Batman was ready to rumble, and fumble and everything in between. While whitewater rafting in Glacier National Park, we had the pleasure of riding with Batman The Guide. Batman, because you can’t change who you are but if you can always choose Batman.

He had been living in Montana for 17 years after moving from Oregon. He had previously worked in the park as a shuttle bus driver and recently switched over to a whitewater rafting instructor.

He was a funny fucking dude; the whole crew was super hyped but he had a comedic sense that made it an entertaining day.

While on the water, we were joking around and splashing the neighboring rafts, an independent rafter said they will bomb us with beers if we splash them. One of the other people on the boat yelled back, “Are they full beers?” and they responded by launching three full miller lite beers at our raft.

At the end of our tour, Batman gave us the three beers then we dedicated those three beers to him with a funnel.

More Friends!!! Its wild how many people we got to see throughout this trip. Hitting Yellowstone National Park, we met up with Mayas friends from home: Cole, Jamie and Declan.

They were just starting their cross-country trip from Nyack, NY, hitting the Northern route to the southern, vs our trip ending in the North. Funny coincident.

We camped out with them for two nights… it was too beautiful to just stay one night, so we pushed back our trip to badlands and stayed the extra night.

We were all out at this joint called Buffalo Bar, it had a great outdoor area with corn hole, ring toss and puppiesss. There is something so fulfilling in petting random dogs with a beer in your hand.

This one dog I was petting had an exceptional owner who was traveling him across states to bring him home. I spoke with the owner for quite a while, she was so friendly about letting me pet her dog. She really was doing it all, back at home she has three kids and two other dogs.

When people hear about our travels, their reactions usually make us realize how cool it is to have the opportunity to do a trip like this.

Many times they wish they did the same when they were our age, *cough, cough, go travel right now, cough, cough.*

This woman explained how she jumped right into working out of school and has always regretted it. Her children were already teenagers so I told her she should get out there and do it. Traveling her new dog home was a great start to the on-the-go lifestyle, she seemed to be enjoying it.

I later found out she picked up our tables tab… thank you Jennifer, you have a heart of gold and a generous soul. She explained her hopes that her kids will one day get out there and see the world like she always wished, and we were accomplishing. It was a pass it forward request, when I am able to cover the bill of a lovely traveling stranger. I hope I cross paths with this family eventually and pay it forward for her children that may travel.

What

What a reality…

The National Park pass is something you buy and are given access to all the national parks in the US. We got one in the beginning of the trip knowing we would be reaching quite a few parks. Unfortunately, we lost it after just seeing the Grand canyon.

It fell in a black hole… the area where your dashboard and windshield meet. Remember this when you put shit on the dashboard. It can slide right down to its death, the only way to get the shit out is by taking off the windshield.

Those passes are irreplaceable, of course.

In badlands, we posted up around 10 p.m. in our hammocks. It was a new experience for us, we thought hey its our last time camping, lets try it a new way. 

We set our hammocks up underneath this podium and slept there. It was perfect for a quick and easy set up/clean up. There was a solid amount of people around us, so we weren't too worried about getting attacked by coyotes again. 

Where

When driving to Portland we drove through the Redwood National Forest. This made me realize how long this Earth has been around.

Trees take a while to grow, and these trees were as thick as three full grown pine trees and as tall as two stacked on top of each other.

Neck breaking tall.

After crossing through, we hit the upper west coast and traveled on route 101 until we hit Portland. It was filled with jaw dropping views, so much so I woke Mary and Maya up every 5 minutes to show them the views. Most times it was the same view as before, just with a new massive rock to look at.

It was a relatively foggy day, so we couldn’t see certain lookout points, but there was something so majestic about the fog within the forests and hanging on the coast.

There were points where you cross over a bridge and there was nothing around you, just white. It appeared as being stuck in a dream or driving my bitchass to heaven.

Arriving in Portland, we stayed at a place in ChinaTown. It was so cute and located on top of a great deli, Charlie’s Deli.

We checked out a bunch of shops and stores while in Portland. While we were walking around, this coffee shop had the sweetest workers. They enjoyed interacting with their customers and weren’t just looking to take your money.

Portland is filled with mockingly friendly people, they weren’t mocking anyone though, they were just that fucking friendly. They actually want to converse with people... what a concept.

For dinner we went to this food truck pod place, which is about 15 different food trucks serving food, with a communal sitting area to eat the food.

We met up with Maya’s cousin there for a drink and to catch up.

Hitting Glacier National Park, we started our camping excursion. We started off sleeping in our car since we arrived late to our campground after driving 10 hours to get there. It was pretty comfortable and with the knowledge of bear attacks in the area, it was a secure place to sleep.

While in Glacier, we decided to go whitewater rafting, a whole new way of seeing the parks. It was so dope, the rapids were on the weak side since the heat waves.

After rafting, we found a great lake front public access point where we hung our hammocks up and took a nice long nap.

There are lakes EVERYWHERE here in Montana and great fishing! Let’s travel and fish all over Montana, okay? Cool.

We waited until 5 p.m. when the park lets you in without a pass, to do a sunset hike in the park. We took Going-to-the-sun road to the highline hike, where we got to see some wild animals!

In the parking lot we got to see a horned sheep (looks like a ram) and more mountain goats!! We saw three full grown goats and one baby goat.

This horned sheep actually stormed at us and we had to jump into our car. The people that parked in the spot before us left their cheetos on the ground. This guy was hungry as fuck I guess. Relentless to say the least. 

This National Park is my new favorite spot-on Earth. Spread my ashes here. Moseying through the park was a full body experience.

All your senses are involved, the smells of the forest are beyond refreshing. The touch of the crisp air brings goosebumps to your skin, and the taste of wind in your face emphasizes the overload of oxygen in that area.

There are no commercialized areas for hours outside the park. Just a fuck ton of trees.

The sounds of different birds chirping harmonizes in your ears with the wind blowing and the rocks falling below you. Your sight is spiked the highest out of the senses. These views seemed so unreal they appeared fake. When you finally touch the grounds around you, you realize how really unreal this land is.

Heading to Yellowstone the following day brought a similar element of nostalgia. We camped right outside the park, on the state border lines of Wyoming and Idaho.

Our friends we stayed with luckily still had their national park pass, so we all took our car and got into the park early that next morning. We got to see some bison! Fun Fact: Bison and Buffalos are actually the same thing.

There were so many beautiful trees and hot springs throughout the park. So many cool colors to see. We also watched Old Faithful blow her hole!!

Getting to Badlands eventually, we got a campground directly in the park. Since we got there later than five it was free. We posted up our hammocks for our last night camping on the trip ;( when we woke up, the views were so cool.

Badlands is a shit ton of clay forming giant sandcastle hills all over. But there is so much green for a desert it was an interesting combination.

When

When can we shower…

We have completed so much of the drive home its wild. We stayed in an apartment for the first two nights in Portland and then spent the rest of the week camping.

We hit our record of days without a shower… 5 full ass days. I’m so proud of Mary and Maya, they really can’t stand being dirty.

When driving long ass 10 hour plus drives for a week you find yourself enjoying nothingness. Head empty is such a vibe after jamming to music and listening to murder mystery podcasts for hours on end.

Our music ranges widely, depending on crashing periods. Whenever Mary is driving, she is either blasting screamo edm music or 2000s pop music.

Maya plays some bomb bops; I really don’t know any of the songs, but it has opened my mind to all these new artists!!

I personally love the murder mystery podcasts, there were a few times I had to change it though because it got too spooky. In the case of this week, we were driving to camp in Montana and a murder mystery came on about the Montana Child Killer… dope.

Why

I have ruled out ever living in a city. From the driving on busy ass streets to the dirty smells everywhere, I will happily reside somewhere in the country. Where? Still have no idea… Why? Because there are so many pros and cons to all these places we saw.

I guess i'll just have to come back out here!

I’m really thinking somewhere up north on the west coast. The west coast will forever hold my heart, but I really don’t have the money or the ability to live in a city out there. Maybe one day with a bombass money making job.

Coming back to the East has made me realize how much nicer people are out west and how much slower of a pace it is.

How

How are we coming up on our last spot…

We are hitting our last stop… Chicago. Shoutout to my cousin for going to school here and letting us use and abuse his apartment! Hehe just kidding we will take care of it for ya, Owen!

It feels so strange to be this close to New York. Our license plates being from New York is no longer that cool.

I’m going to miss people peeping our plates and asking us about our travels and/or wishing us luck!

Thanks everyone throughout, we are almost accomplished with this chapter!

[mellifera38]

Mel’s Big Fantasy Place-Name Reference

So I’ve been doing lots of D&D world-building lately and I’ve kind of been putting together lists of words to help inspire new fantasy place names. I figured I’d share. These are helpful for naming towns, regions, landforms, roads, shops, and they’re also probably useful for coming up with surnames. This is LONG. There’s plenty more under the cut including a huge list of “fantasy sounding” word-parts. Enjoy!

Towns & Kingdoms

town, borough, city, hamlet, parish, township, village, villa, domain

kingdom, empire, nation, country, county, city-state, state, province, dominion

Town Name End Words (English flavored)

-ton, -ston, -caster, -dale, -den, -field, -gate, -glen, -ham, -holm, -hurst, -bar, -boro, -by, -cross, -kirk, -meade, -moore, -ville, -wich, -bee, -burg, -cester, -don, -lea, -mer, -rose, -wall, -worth, -berg, -burgh, -chase, -ly, -lin, -mor, -mere, -pool. -port, -stead, -stow, -strath, -side, -way, -berry, -bury, -chester, -haven, -mar, -mont, -ton, -wick, -meet, -heim, -hold, -hall, -point

Buildings & Places

castle, fort, palace, fortress, garrison, lodge, estate, hold, stronghold, tower, watchtower, palace, spire, citadel, bastion, court, manor, house

altar, chapel, abbey, shrine, temple, monastery, cathedral, sanctum, crypt, catacomb, tomb

orchard, arbor, vineyard, farm, farmstead, shire, garden, ranch

plaza, district, quarter, market, courtyard, inn, stables, tavern, blacksmith, forge, mine, mill, quarry, gallows, apothecary, college, bakery, clothier, library, guild house, bath house, pleasure house, brothel, jail, prison, dungeon, cellar, basement, attic, sewer, cistern

lookout, post, tradepost, camp, outpost, hovel, hideaway, lair, nook, watch, roost, respite, retreat, hostel, holdout, redoubt, perch, refuge, haven, alcove, haunt, knell, enclave, station, caravan, exchange, conclave

port, bridge, ferry, harbor, landing, jetty, wharf, berth, footbridge, dam, beacon, lighthouse, marina, dockyard, shipyard

road, street, way, row, lane, trail, corner, crossing, gate, junction, waygate, end, wall, crossroads,  barrier, bulwark, blockade, pavilion, avenue, promenade, alley, fork, route

Time & Direction

North, South, East, West, up, down, side, rise, fall, over, under

Winter, Spring, Summer, Autumn, solstice, equanox, vernal, ever, never

dusk, dawn, dawnrise, morning, night, nightfall, evening, sundown, sunbreak, sunset

lunar, solar, sun, moon, star, eclipse

Geographical Terms

Cave, cavern, cenote, precipice, crevasse, crater, maar, chasm, ravine, trench, rift, pit

Cliff, bluff, crag, scarp, outcrop, stack, tor, falls, run, eyrie, aerie

Hill, mountain, volcano, knoll, hillock, downs, barrow, plateau, mesa, butte, pike, peak, mount, summit, horn, knob, pass, ridge, terrace, gap, point, rise, rim, range, view, vista, canyon, hogback, ledge, stair, descent

Valley, gulch, gully, vale, dale, dell, glen, hollow, grotto, gorge, bottoms, basin, knoll, combe

Meadow, grassland, field, pasture, steppe, veld, sward, lea, mead, fell, moor, moorland, heath, croft, paddock, boondock, prairie, acre, strath, heights, mount, belt

Woodlands, woods, forest, bush, bower, arbor, grove, weald, timberland, thicket, bosk, copse, coppice, underbrush, hinterland, park, jungle, rainforest, wilds, frontier, outskirts

Desert, dunes, playa, arroyo, chaparral, karst, salt flats, salt pan, oasis, spring, seep, tar pit, hot springs, fissure, steam vent, geyser, waste, wasteland, badland, brushland, dustbowl, scrubland

Ocean, sea, lake, pond, spring, tarn, mere, sluice, pool, coast, gulf, bay

Lagoon, cay, key, reef, atoll, shoal, tideland, tide flat, swale, cove, sandspit, strand, beach

Snowdrift, snowbank, permafrost, floe, hoar, rime, tundra, fjord, glacier, iceberg

River, stream, creek, brook, tributary, watersmeet, headwater, ford, levee, delta, estuary, firth, strait, narrows, channel, eddy, inlet, rapids, mouth, falls

Wetland, marsh, bog, fen, moor, bayou, glade, swamp, banks, span, wash, march, shallows, mire, morass, quag, quagmire, everglade, slough, lowland, sump, reach

Island, isle, peninsula, isthmus, bight, headland, promontory, cape, pointe, cape

More under the cut including: Color words, Animal/Monster related words, Rocks/Metals/Gems list, Foliage, People groups/types, Weather/Environment/ Elemental words, Man-made Items, Body Parts, Mechanical sounding words, a huge list of both pleasant and unpleasant Atmospheric Descriptors, and a huge list of Fantasy Word-parts.

Color Descriptions

Warm: red, scarlet, crimson, rusty, cerise, carmine, cinnabar, orange, vermillion, ochre, peach, salmon, saffron, yellow, gold, lemon, amber, pink, magenta, maroon, brown, sepia, burgundy, beige, tan, fuchsia, taupe

Cool: green, beryl, jade, evergreen, chartreuse, olive, viridian, celadon, blue, azure, navy, cerulean, turquoise, teal, cyan, cobalt, periwinkle, beryl, purple, violet, indigo, mauve, plum

Neutral: gray, silver, ashy, charcoal, slate, white, pearly, alabaster, ivory, black, ebony, jet

dark, dusky, pale, bleached, blotchy, bold, dappled, lustrous, faded, drab, milky, mottled, opaque, pastel, stained, subtle, ruddy, waxen, tinted, tinged, painted

Animal / Monster-Related Words

Bear, eagle, wolf, serpent, hawk, horse, goat, sheep, bull, raven, crow, dog, stag, rat, boar, lion, hare, owl, crane, goose, swan, otter, frog, toad, moth, bee, wasp, beetle, spider, slug, snail, leech, dragonfly, fish, trout, salmon, bass, crab, shell, dolphin, whale, eel, cod, haddock

Dragon, goblin, giant, wyvern, ghast, siren, lich, hag, ogre, wyrm, kraken

Talon, scale, tusk, hoof, mane, horn, fur, feather, fang, wing, whisker, bristle, paw, tail, beak, claw, web, quill, paw, maw, pelt, haunch, gill, fin,

Hive, honey, nest, burrow, den, hole, wallow

Rocks / Metals / Minerals

Gold, silver, brass, bronze, copper, platinum, iron, steel, tin, mithril, electrum, adamantite, quicksilver, fool’s gold, titanium

Diamond, ruby, emerald, sapphire, topaz, opal, pearl, jade, jasper, onyx, citrine, aquamarine, turquoise, lapiz lazuli, amethyst, quartz, crystal, amber, jewel

Granite, shale, marble, limestone, sandstone, slate, diorite, basalt, rhyolite, obsidian, glass

Earth, stone, clay, sand, silt, salt, mote, lode, vein, ore, ingot, coal, boulder, bedrock, crust, rubble, pebble, gravel, cobble, dust, clod, peat, muck mud, slip, loam, dirt, grit, scree, shard, flint, stalactite/mite

Trees / Plants / Flowers

Tree, ash, aspen, pine, birch, alder, willow, dogwood, oak, maple, walnut,  chestnut, cedar, mahogany, palm, beech, hickory, hemlock, cottonwood, hawthorn, sycamore, poplar, cypress, mangrove, elm, fir, spruce, yew

Branch, bough, bramble, gnarl, burr, tangle, thistle, briar, thorn, moss, bark, shrub, undergrowth, overgrowth, root, vine, bracken, reed, driftwood, coral, fern, berry, bamboo, nectar, petal, leaf, seed, clover, grass, grain, trunk, twig, canopy, cactus, weed, mushroom, fungus

Apple, olive, apricot, elderberry, coconut, sugar, rice, wheat, cotton, flax, barley, hops, onion, carrot, turnip, cabbage, squash, pumpkin, pepper

Flower, rose, lavender, lilac, jasmine, jonquil, marigold, carnelian, carnation, goldenrod, sage, wisteria, dahlia, nightshade, lily, daisy, daffodil, columbine, amaranth, crocus, buttercup, foxglove, iris, holly, hydrangea, orchid, snowdrop, hyacinth, tulip, yarrow, magnolia, honeysuckle, belladonna, lily pad, magnolia

People

Settler, Pilgrim, Pioneer, Merchant, Prospector, Maker, Surveyor, Mason, Overseer, Apprentice, Widow, Sailor, Miner, Blacksmith, Butcher, Baker, Brewer, Barkeep, Ferryman, Hangman, Gambler, Fisherman, Adventurer, Hero, Seeker, Hiker, Traveler, Crone

Mage, Magician, Summoner, Sorcerer, Wizard, Conjurer, Necromancer, 

King, Queen, Lord, Count, Baron, Guard, Soldier, Knight, Vindicator, Merchant, Crusader, Imperator, Syndicate, Vanguard, Champion, Warden, Victor, Legionnaire, Master, Archer, Footman, Gladiator, Barbarian, Captain, Commodore, 

Beggar, Hunter, Ranger, Deadman, Smuggler, Robber, Swindler, Rebel, Bootlegger, Outlaw, Pirate, Brigand, Ruffian, Highwayman, Cutpurse, Thief, Assassin

God, Goddess, Exarch, Angel, Devil, Demon, Cultist, Prophet, Hermit, Seer

council, clergy, guild, militia, choir 

Climate, Environment, & The Elements

Cold, cool, brisk, frosty, chilly, icy, freezing, frozen, frigid, glacial, bitter, biting, bleak, arctic, polar, boreal, wintry, snowy, snow, blizzarding, blizzard, sleeting, sleet, chill, frost, ice, icebound, ice cap, floe, snowblind, frostbite, coldsnap, avalanche, snowflake

Hot, sunny, humid, sweltering, steaming, boiling, sizzling, blistering, scalding, smoking, caldescent, dry, parched, arid, fallow, thirsty, melting, molten, fiery, blazing, burning, charring, glowing, searing, scorching, blasted, sun, fire, heat, flame, wildfire, bonfire, inferno, coal, ash, cinder, ember, flare, pyre, tinder, kindling, aflame, alight, ablaze, lava, magma, slag,

Wet, damp, dank, soggy, sodden, soaked, drenched, dripping, sopping, briny, murky, rain, storm, hail, drizzle, sprinkle, downpour, deluge, squall, water, cloud, fog, mist, dew, puddle, pool, current, whirlpool, deep, depths, tide, waves, whitewater, waterfall, tidal wave, flow, flood, leak, drain

Wind, breeze, gust, billow, gail, draft, waft, zephyr, still, airy, clear, smokey, tempest, tempestuous, windswept, aerial, lofty, torrid, turbulent, nebulous, tradewind, thunder, lightning, spark, cyclone, tornado, whirlwind, hurricane, typhoon

Man-made Item Words

Furnace, forge, anvil, vault, strap, strip, whetstone, brick, sword, blade, axe, dagger, shield, buckler, morningstar, bow, quiver, arrow, polearm, flail, staff, stave, sheath, hilt, hammer, knife, helm, mantle, banner, pauldron, chainmail, mace, dart, cutlass, canon, needle, cowl, belt,  buckle, bandana, goggles, hood, boot, heel, spindle, spool, thread, sweater, skirt, bonnet, apron, leather, hide, plate, tunic, vest, satin, silk, wool, velvet, lace, corset, stocking, binding

Plow, scythe, (wheel) barrow, saddle, harrow, brand, collar, whip, leash, lead, bridle, stirrup, wheel, straw, stall, barn, hay, bale, pitchfork, well, log, saw, lumber, sod, thatch, mortar, brick, cement, concrete, pitch, pillar, window, fountain, door, cage, spoke, pole, table, bench, plank, board

Candle, torch, cradle, broom, lamp, lantern, clock, bell, lock, hook, trunk, looking glass, spyglass, bottle, vase, locket, locker, key, handle, rope, knot, sack, pocket, pouch, manacle, chain, stake, coffin, fan. cauldron, kettle, pot, bowl, pestle, oven, ladle, spoon, font, wand, potion, elixir, draught, portal, book, tome, scroll, word, manuscript, letter, message, grimoire, map, ink, quill, pen, cards, dice

Coin, coronet, crown, circlet, scepter, treasure, riches, scales, pie, tart, loaf, biscuit, custard, caramel, pudding, porridge, stew, bread, tea, gravy, gristle, spice, lute, lyre, harp, drum, rouge, powder, perfume, brush

bilge, stern, pier, sail, anchor, mast, dock, deck, flag, ship, boat, canoe, barge, wagon, sled, carriage, buggy, cart

Wine, brandy, whiskey, ale, moonshine, gin, cider, rum, grog, beer, brew, goblet, flagon, flask, cask, tankard, stein, mug, barrel, stock, wort, malt

Body Parts

Head, throat, finger, foot, hand, neck, shoulder, rib, jaw, eye, lips, bosom

Skull, spine, bone, tooth, heart, blood, tears, gut, beard

Mechanical-Sounding Words

cog, fuse, sprocket, wrench, screw, nail, bolt, lever, pulley, spanner, gear, spring, shaft, switch, button, cast, pipe, plug, dial, meter, nozzle, cord, brake, gauge, coil, oil, signal, wire, fluke, staple, clamp, bolt, nut, bulb, patch, pump, cable, socket

torque, force, sonic, spark, fizzle, thermal, beam, laser, steam, buzz, mega, mecha, electro, telsa, power, flicker, charge, current, flow, tinker

Atmospheric Words

Unpleasant, Dangerous, Threatening

(nouns) death, fury, battle, scar, shadow, razor, nightmare, wrath, bone, splinter, peril, war, riptide, strife, reckoning, sorrow, terror, deadwood, nether, venom, grime, rage, void, conquest, pain, folly, revenge, horrid, mirk, shear, fathom, frenzy, corpselight/marshlight, reaper, gloom, doom, torment, torture, spite, grizzled, sludge, refuse, spore, carrion, fear, pyre, funeral, shade, beast, witch, grip, legion, downfall, ruin, plague, woe, bane, horde, acid, fell, grief, corpse, mildew, mold, miter, dirge

(adjectives) dead, jagged, decrepit, fallen, darkened, blackened, dire, grim, feral, wild, broken, desolate, mad, lost, under, stagnant, blistered, derelict, forlorn, unbound, sunken, fallow, shriveled, wayward, bleak, low, weathered, fungal, last, brittle, sleepy, -strewn, dusky, deserted, empty, barren, vacant, forsaken, bare, bereft, stranded, solitary, abandoned, discarded, forgotten, deep, abysmal, bottomless, buried, fathomless,unfathomable, diseased, plagued, virulent, noxious, venomous, toxic, fetid, revolting, putrid, rancid, foul, squalid, sullied, vile, blighted, vicious, ferocious, dangerous, savage, cavernous, vast, yawning, chasmal, echoing, dim, dingy, gloomy, inky, lurid, shaded, shadowy, somber, sunless, tenebrous, unlit, veiled, hellish, accursed, sulfurous, damned, infernal, condemned, doomed, wicked, sinister, dread, unending, spectral, ghostly, haunted, eldritch, unknown, weary, silent, hungry, cloven, acidic

(verb/adverbs): wither (withering / withered), skulk (skulking), whisper, skitter, chitter, sting, slither, writhe, gape, screech, scream, howl, lurk, roil, twist, shift, swarm, spawn, fester, bleed, howl, shudder, shrivel, devour, swirl, maul, trip, smother, weep, shatter, ruin, curse, ravage, hush, rot, drown, sunder, blister, warp, fracture, die, shroud, fall, surge, shiver, roar, thunder, smolder, break, silt, slide, lash, mourn, crush, wail, decay, crumble, erode, decline, reek, lament, taint, corrupt, defile, poison, infect, shun, sigh, sever, crawl, starve, grind, cut, wound, bruise, maim, stab, bludgeon, rust, mutilate, tremble, stumble, fumble, clank, clang

Pleasant, Safe, Neutral

(nouns) spirit, luck, soul, oracle, song, sky, smile, rune, obelisk, cloud, timber, valor, triumph, rest, dream, thrall, might, valiance, glory, mirror, life, hope, oath, serenity, sojourn, god, hearth, crown, throne, crest, guard, rise, ascent, circle, ring, twin, vigil, breath, new, whistle, grasp, snap, fringe, threshold, arch, cleft, bend, home, fruit, wilds, echo, moonlight, sunlight, starlight, splendor, vigilance, honor, memory, fortune, aurora, paradise, caress

(adjectives) gentle, pleasant, prosperous, peaceful, sweet, good, great, mild, grand, topic, lush, wild, abundant, verdant, sylvan, vital, florid, bosky, callow, verdurous, lucious, fertile, spellbound, captivating, mystical, hidden, arcane, clandestine, esoteric, covert, cryptic, runic, otherworldly, touched, still, fair, deep, quiet, bright, sheer, tranquil, ancient, light, far, -wrought, tidal, royal, shaded, swift, true, free, high, vibrant, pure, argent, hibernal, ascendant, halcyon, silken, bountiful, gilded, colossal, massive, stout, elder, -bourne, furrowed, happy, merry, -bound, loud, lit, silk, quiet, bright, luminous, shining, burnished, glossy, brilliant, lambent, lucent, lustrous, radiant, resplendent, vivid, vibrant, illuminated, silvery, limpid, sunlit, divine, sacred, holy, eternal, celestial, spiritual, almighty, anointed, consecrated, exalted, hallowed, sanctified, ambrosial, beatific, blissful, demure, naked, bare, ample, coy,  deific, godly, omnipotent, omnipresent, rapturous, sacramental, sacrosanct, blessed, majestic, iridescent, glowing, overgrown, dense, hard, timeless, sly, scatter, everlasting, full, half, first, last

(verb/adverbs) arch (arching / arched), wink (winking), sing, nestle, graze, stroll, roll, flourish, bloom, bud, burgeon, live, dawn, hide, dawn, run, pray, wake, laugh, wake, glimmer, glitter, drift, sleep, tumble, bind, arch, blush, grin, glister, beam, meander, wind, widen, charm, bewitch, enthrall, entrance, enchant, allure, beguile, glitter, shimmer, sparkle twinkle, crest, quiver, slumber, herald, shelter, leap, click, climb, scuttle, dig, barter, chant, hum, chime, kiss, flirt, tempt, tease, play, seduce

Generic “Fantasy-Sounding” Word Parts

A - D

aaz, ada, adaer, adal, adar, adbar, adir, ae, ael, aer, aern, aeron, aeryeon, agar, agis, aglar, agron, ahar, akan, akyl, al, alam, alan, alaor, ald, alea, ali, alir, allyn, alm, alon, alor, altar, altum, aluar, alys, amar, amaz, ame, ammen, amir, amol, amn, amus, anar, andor, ang, ankh, ar, ara, aram, arc, arg, arian, arkh, arla, arlith, arn, arond, arthus, arum, arvien, ary, asha, ashyr, ask, assur, aster, astra, ath, athor, athra, athryn, atol, au, auga, aum, auroch, aven, az, azar, baal, bae, bael, bak, bal, balor, ban, bar, bara, barr, batol, batar, basir, basha, batyr, bel, belph, belu, ben, beo, bere, berren, berun, besil, bezan, bhaer, bhal, blask, blis, blod, bor, boraz, bos, bran, brath, braun, breon, bri, bry, bul, bur, byl, caer, cal, calan, cara, cassa, cath, cela, cen, cenar, cerul, chalar, cham, chion, cimar, clo, coram, corel, corman, crim, crom, daar, dach, dae, dago, dagol, dahar, dala, dalar, dalin, dam, danas, daneth, dannar, dar, darian,  darath, darm, darma, darro, das, dasa, dasha, dath, del, delia, delimm, dellyn, delmar, delo, den, dess, dever, dhaer, dhas, dhaz, dhed, dhin, din, dine, diar, dien, div, djer, dlyn, dol, dolan, doon, dora, doril, doun, dral, dranor, drasil, dren, drian, drien, drin, drov, druar, drud, duald, duatha, duir, dul, dulth, dun, durth, dyra, dyver,

E - H

ea, eber, eden, edluk, egan, eiel, eilean, ejen, elath, eld, eldor, eldra, elith emar, ellesar, eltar, eltaran, elth, eltur, elyth, emen, empra, emril, emvor, ena, endra, enthor, erad, erai, ere, eriel, erith, erl, eron, erre, eryn, esk, esmel, espar, estria, eta, ethel, eval, ezro, ezan, ezune, ezil, fael, faelar, faern, falk, falak, farak, faril, farla, fel, fen, fenris, fer, fet, fin, finar, forel, folgun, ful, fulk, fur, fyra, fallon, gael, gach, gabir, gadath, gal, galar, gana, gar, garth, garon, garok, garne, gath, geir, gelden, geren,  geron, ghal, ghallar, ghast, ghel, ghom, ghon, gith, glae, glander, glar, glym, gol, goll, gollo, goloth, gorot, gost, goth, graeve, gran, grimm, grist, grom, grosh, grun, grym, gual, guil, guir, gulth, gulur, gur, gurnth, gwaer, haa, hael, haer, hadar, hadel, hakla, hala, hald, halana, halid, hallar, halon, halrua, halus, halvan, hamar, hanar, hanyl, haor, hara, haren, haresk, harmun, harrokh, harrow, haspur, haza, hazuth, heber,  hela, helve, hem, hen, herath, hesper, heth, hethar, hind, hisari, hjaa, hlath, hlond, hluth, hoarth, holtar, horo, hotun, hrag, hrakh, hroth, hull, hyak, hyrza

I - M

iibra, ilth, ilus, ilira, iman, imar, imas, imb, imir, immer, immil, imne, impil, ingdal, innar, ir, iriae, iril, irith, irk, irul, isha, istis, isil, itala, ith, ithal, itka, jada, jae, jaeda, jahaka, jala, jarra, jaro, jath, jenda, jhaamm, jhothm, jinn, jinth, jyn, kado, kah, kal, kalif, kam, kana, kara, karg, kars, karth, kasp, katla, kaul, kazar, kazr, kela, kelem, kerym, keth, keva, kez, kezan, khaer, khal, khama, khaz, khara, khed, khel, khol, khur, kil, kor, korvan, koll, kos, kir, kra, kul, kulda, kund, kyne, lae, laen, lag, lan, lann, lanar, lantar, lapal, lar, laran, lareth, lark, lath, lauth, lav, lavur, lazar, leih, leshyr, leth, lhaza, lhuven, liad, liam, liard, lim, lin, lirn, lisk, listra, lith, liya, llair, llor, lok, lolth, loran, lorkh, lorn, loth, lothen, luen, luir, luk, lund, lur, luth, lyndus, lyra, lyth, maal, madrasm maera, maer, maerim, maes, mag, magra, mahand, mal, malar, mald, maldo, mar, mara, mark, marl, maru, maruk, meir, melish, memnon, mer, metar, methi, mhil, mina, mir, miram, mirk, mista, mith, moander, mok, modir, modan, mon, monn, mor, more, morel, moril, morn, moro, morrow, morth, mort, morum, morven, muar, mul, mydra, myr, myra, myst

N - S

naar, nadyra, naedyr, naga, najar, nal, naal, nalir, nar, naruk, narbond, narlith, narzul, nasaq, nashkel, natar, nath, natha, neir, neth, nether, nhall, nikh, nil, nilith, noan, nolvurm nonthal, norda, noro, novul, nul, nur, nus, nyan, nyth, ober, odra, oghr, okoth, olleth, olodel, omgar, ondath, onthril, ordul, orish, oroch, orgra, orlim, ormath, ornar, orntath, oroch, orth, orva, oryn, orzo, ostel, ostor, ostrav, othea, ovar, ozod, ozul, palan, palad, pae, peldan, pern, perris, perim, pele, pen, phail, phanda, phara, phen, phendra, pila, pinn, pora, puril, pur, pyra, qadim, quar, quel, ques, quil, raah, rael, ran, ranna, rassil, rak, rald, rassa, reddan, reith, relur, ren, rendril, resil, reska, reth, reven, revar, rhy, rhynn, ria, rian, rin, ris, rissian, rona, roch, rorn, rora, rotha, rual, ruar, ruhal, ruil, ruk, runn, rusk, ryn, saa, saar, saal, sabal, samar, samrin, sankh, sar, sarg, sarguth, sarin, sarlan, sel, seld, sember, semkh, sen, sendrin, septa, senta, seros, shaar, shad, shadra, shae, shaen, shaera, shak, shalan, sham, shamath, shan, shana, sharan, shayl, shemar, shere, shor, shul, shyll, shyr, sidur, sil, silvan, sim, sintar, sirem, skar, skell, skur, skyr, sokol, solan, sola, somra, sor, ssin, stel, strill, suldan, sulk, sunda, sur, surkh, suth, syl, sylph, sylune, syndra, syth

T - Z

taak, taar, taer, tah, tak, tala, talag, talar, talas, talath, tammar, tanar, tanil, tar, tara, taran, tarl, tarn, tasha, tath, tavil, telar, teld, telf, telos, tempe, tethy, tezir, thaar, thaer, thal, thalag, thalas, thalan, thalar, thamor, thander, thangol, thar, thay, thazal, theer, theim, thelon, thera, thendi, theril, thiir, thil, thild, thimir, thommar, thon, thoon, thor, thran, thrann, threl, thril, thrul, thryn, thuk, thultan, thume, thun, thy, thyn, thyr, tir, tiras, tirum, tohre, tol, tolar, tolir,  tolzrin, tor, tormel, tormir, traal, triel, trith, tsath, tsur, tul, tur, turiver, turth, tymor, tyr, uder, udar, ugoth, uhr, ukh, ukir, uker, usten, ulgarth, ulgoth, ultir, ulur, umar, umath, umber, unara, undro, undu, untha, upir, ur, ursa, ursol, uron, uth, uthen, uz, van, vaar, vaelan, vaer, vaern, val valan, valash, vali, valt, vandan, vanede, vanrak, var, varyth, vassa, vastar, vaunt, vay, vel, velar, velen, velius, vell, velta, ven, veren, vern, vesper, vilar, vilhon, vintor, vir, vira, virdin, volo, volun, von, voon, vor, voro, vos, vosir, vosal, vund, war, wara, whel, wol, wynn, wyr, wyrm, xer, xul, xen, xian, yad, yag, yal, yar, yath, yeon, yhal, yir, yirar, yuir, yul, yur, zail, zala, zalhar, zan, zanda, zar, zalar, zarach, zaru, zash, zashu, zemur, zhent, zim, ziram, zindala, zindar, zoun, zul, zurr, zuth, zuu, zym

A lot of places are named after historical events, battles, and people, so keep that in mind. God/Goddess names tied to your world also work well. Places are also often named after things that the area is known for, like Georgia being known for its peaches.

My brain was fried by the end of this so feel free to add more!

I hope you find this reference helpful and good luck world-building!

-Mel

[i8seattle]

Welcome to North Cascades Photography

Each week we will visit some place in the North Cascades. The best camp sites; day hikes and overnight trips; lookout towers, the best locations for sunrises, sunsets and night sky imaging. Whether you’re into a week long trip, or the best place for a drive-in view, I will cover  the best times to go and How To Tips ranging from How to set exposure for a shot of the Milky Way to Where to see Mountain Goats? 

Introduction

My fascination with the North Cascades started with a map.

In 1976 one of my friends read the Nat Geo article about a through hiker on the PCT. Several of us had recently finished a month long Outward Bound program in the Sawtooths, backpacking and rock climbing and we were excited for a new adventure.

I still have the map, from 1976

A few glances at the images and I was sending away for maps. When they finally arrived in the mail I poured over them, tracing the PCT and looking at the terrain.

Pacific Crest Trail, Pasayten Wilderness

It was the first time I’d heard of places like the Pasayten Wilderness and Crater Lake. At that time there was little to read about the trail, most of the planning for a thru hike was up to you.

When you study a map, planning mileage, elevation gain and water sources you try to envision the place. There were more then 20 maps for Washington and Oregon I sorted through, tracing the PCT and making plans. The place I was most captivated with, the most excited about visiting was the North Cascades. I wanted to see the Picket Range and hike over Whatcom Pass.

Mt Adams and Pacific Crest Trail, Goat Rocks Wilderness

First of all, it was clearly the most rugged section. There were other sections with higher summits, like Mt Rainier and Mt Adams.

But these giant peaks were surrounded by much smaller mountains. The North Cascades boasted the greatest density of topographical map lines. I imagined wave after wave of serrated ridges; steep U-shaped valleys, cloaked in green and mantled with glaciers. The names of the places fueled my imagination: Mount Terror and Mount Fury, Desolation Peak, Diablo Lake and Forbidden Peak were just a few. I couldn’t wait to get there. The only problem was that it wasn’t the easiest place to get to!

Sunset at Sahale Camp, North Cascades National Park

In the end we decided to hike the PCT through Oregon.  We hitchhiked from eastern Pennsylvania to Cascade Locks, Oregon, along the Columbia River and started our journey south.

My travels led me to many places, decades passed. But the allure and wonder of this place I’d never seen stuck with me.

    The Picket Range, from Copper Ridge

Mt Challenger, from Whatcom Pass

Easy Pass, Whatcom Peak and Mt Challenger

Salmon in the Chilliwack River

  Sahale Camp

It was 30 years before I made it back to see the places I’d dreamed of: Copper Ridge and the Chilliwack River, Mt Challenger and the Pickets…

I feel privileged to be able to see such things and humbled trying to capture some part of it in an image.

Now I live along the North Cascades Highway. Living on the doorstep of the mountains makes it easy to visit often. I truly feel at home.

Each week North Cascades Photography will visit some place in the North Cascades and share info on the best trails, camp sites, day hikes, long hikes, drive-in vistas, locations for Night Sky imaging and of course lots and lots of images.

You can always find out more about Trips, Classes, Photo Tours and more at my web site, AndyPorterImages.com

Next: The North Cascades Highway

Welcome to the North Cascades

    North Cascades Photography – Introduction Welcome to North Cascades Photography

[clausenhermann0-blog]

The World's Most Lovely National Parks

ational Parks are one particular of the prime adventures. Yellow Stone: Yellowstone Countrywide Park currently being three,500-sq.-mile, is a wilderness recreation region atop a volcanic sizzling spot. The park spreads into elements of Montana. It features extraordinary canyons, alpine rivers, scorching springs and gushing geysers, like its most popular. It is also property to hundreds of animal species, wolves, bison, elk and antelope. Grand Canyon: Grand Canyon Nationwide Park is residence to a lot of the large Grand Canyon, with its layered bands of crimson rock revealing tens of millions of years of environmental background. Views contain Mather Stage, Yavapai Observation Station and architect Mary Colter's Lookout Studio. Yosemite: Yosemite Countrywide Park is in California's Sierra Nevada foothills. America's National Parks for its giant, ancient sequoia trees, and for Tunnel See, the iconic vista of large Bridalveil Slide and the granite cliffs of El Capitan and Fifty percent Dome. In Yosemite Village are shops, dining establishments, lodging, the Yosemite Museum and the Ansel Adams Gallery. Kruger: Kruger National Park, in South Africa, is 1 of Africa's greatest sport belongings. Its higher thickness of wild animals contains the Huge 5: lions, rhinos, elephants and buffalos. Other mammals make their home here, as do assorted chicken species these kinds of as vultures, eagles and storks. Mountains, and tropical forests are all portion of the countryside. Torres del Paine: Torres del Paine Countrywide Park, in Chile's Patagonia area, is acknowledged for it is rising mountains, bright blue icebergs that slice from glaciers and golden pampas (grasslands) that housing exceptional wildlife this sort of as llama-like guanacos. Some of its biggest iconic sites are the three granite towers from which the park will take its name and the peaks referred to as Cuernos del Paine. Serengeti: Serengeti Countrywide Park is known for its huge once-a-year migration of wildebeest and zebra. Searching for new meadow, the mobs shift north from their qualifications grounds in the grassy southern plains. Quite a few cross the marshy western corridor's crocodile-infested Grumeti River. Other folks change northeast to the Lobo Hills, residence to black eagles. Black rhinos dwell the granite outcrops of the Moru Kopjes. Fiordland: Fiordland National Park is in the southwest of New Zealand's South Island. It truly is known for the glacier-carved fiords of Uncertain sounds. A seaside forest trail on the sandy Milford shore proposals sights of soaring Mitre Peak. Hooked up, the craggy Earl Mountains are mirrored in the sleek floor of Mirror Lakes. On the Cleddau River, the Chasm Walk passes above bridges with views of effective waterfalls. Zion: Zion National Park is a southwest Utah character maintain illustrious by Zion Canyon's steep purple cliffs. Zion Canyon Scenic Travel scratches through its principal area, major to forest tracks along the Virgin River. The river streams to the Emerald Pools, which have waterfalls and a droopy yard. Also alongside the river, partially by way of deep chasms, is Zion Narrows wading hike. Lakes Countrywide Park getting 295-sq.-km, is a forest reserve in central Croatia. It truly is regarded for a chain of 16 terraced lakes, blended by waterfalls, that lengthen into a limestone canyon. Walkways and mountaineering trails breeze about and throughout the h2o, and an electric boat hyperlinks the twelve higher and 4 minimal lakes. The later on are the site of Veliki Slap, a seventy eight meters tall waterfall. Glacier: Glacier Countrywide Park becoming one,583-sq.-miles, is a wilderness location in Montana's Rocky Mountains, with glacier-carved peaks and valleys operating to the Canadian border. It is traversed by the mountainous. Among added seven hundred miles of mountaineering trails, it has a route to attractive Concealed Lake. It has the actions of backpacking, cycling and tenting. Assorted wildlife ranges from mountain goats to grizzly bears.

[fromwinnipeg2everywhere]

Pandemic Travel to the Rockies

I naively thought that by the summer of 2020, the pandemic would be over and by fall we’d be travelling again, but when our November flight to Spain and Turkey got cancelled by Air Canada mid-July, reality started to set in. We were given the opportunity to rebook later, but we decided that for 2020, we will travel locally. We have always wanted to travel to the Rockies, but we kept on putting it off, so with five weeks of vacation to use and nowhere to go, we decided that we will drive to Alberta from Winnipeg for two weeks in September of 2020.

The first two days of the trip was spent driving to Calgary. We refused to drive the full 14 hours straight so we spent a night in Regina, so what would have been a two-hour flight became a 36-hour road trip. The hotel in Regina was one of many hotels we stayed at for this trip. We compared our hotel stays to when the trio in Harry Potter had to move from campsite to campsite in book 7, and every time they would move campsites, they would set up protective spells around them. We basically did the same because every hotel we went to, we whipped out our big container of Lysol wipes and wiped everything down, from the door handles, to light switches to all the surfaces we would potentially touch. If I’m being honest, I would say I resented having to do all that, but it was necessary for our peace of mind. Some people would probably say, well, maybe, you shouldn’t have been travelling at all in the first place, but I felt like we did our due diligence and taken measures to protect ourselves (i.e. driving and not flying, travelling in the off season, wiping everything down, wearing masks, not eating in restaurants, staying away from people, etc.). As selfish as it may sound, it was important for us to travel, and at the time, the cases were still low, the variants were not a thing, and I would decide the same thing 100x over if I had to do all over again.

We spent the first couple of days in Calgary visiting with my brother before driving out to the Rockies. It was nice seeing my brother and his family. I know we only live 14 hours apart, but we rarely see each other. I think one of the silver linings of this pandemic was that I got to visit them and stay with them for a few days. Our first stop after Calgary was Lake Louise. We spent our first night in Lake Louise at the iconic Fairmont, with a room overlooking the lake. Did we overpay for the hotel? Probably. Was it worth it? I would say that for that price, I’ve had better experiences elsewhere. We were supposed to stay there two nights, our first and last day at Lake Louise, but after the first night, we decided to cancel the second night and just drive out to Jasper a day early. The hotel itself is what you would expect a Fairmont to be, but for $500 a night, I really expected a little bit more than just the view of the lake from my window. The room was standard, the pool was very disappointing and the breakfast at the restaurant was ordinary. We did get a free canoeing voucher, but there were forest fires at the time so we weren’t even allowed to canoe the full hour on the voucher. There were definitely benefits to staying at the Fairmont, for example, not having to fight for a parking spot, being close to the trail head for the Big Beehive, and just having access to Lake Louise first thing in the morning and at sunset. It really was too bad that it was hazy the entire time we were there, so no decent photos were to be had.

After our night at The Fairmont, we stayed a couple of nights at Mountaineers Lodge located at the Lake Louise town. It was reasonably priced and a perfect place to get to everywhere you might want to go in the area. There was not much to do in the town of Lake Louise. There were a couple of delis where you can order takeout, but after dark, everything shuts down and there’s nothing to do. We didn’t see a lot of wildlife around either, which I was very surprised by. Here is a list of things we did and places we went while staying at Lake Louise:

1. Hiking – we hiked the Fairview Lookout, Lake Agnes, Big Beehive and Johnston Canyon. For Johnston Canyon, we booked breakfast at the Blackswift Bistro and this allowed us to drive all the way to the trailhead. If you don’t have a reservation, you have to walk an extra 10km before you even get to the trailhead because the highway leading up to it is closed to traffic, so a $30 breakfast is worth the price, I think. We struggled with Lake Agnes and Big Beehive, but the views are rewarding, even with the smoke and haze. We were not in shape, but it is doable, if you take your time.

2. Moraine Lake – staying at Lake Louise allowed us to get to Moraine Lake in the early hours and not worry about the parking lot being full. Even in the off season and on a weekday, the parking lot fills up by 7:30AM. We were able to get here early in the morning to catch sunrise, and late in the evening to take milky way photos. It is really jarring to be here when it’s pitch dark, and I kept imagining running into bears, but for the entire trip, we actually only saw one bear, and that is on the road on the way to Moraine Lake at dawn. We didn’t get to do any hikes because the hikes required at least four people, but after Lake Agnes and Big Beehive, this suited me just fine.

3. Morant’s Curve – a short drive from Lake Louise town, Morant’s Curve is a scenic little lookout with the mountains in the background and the railroad track in the foreground. If you’re lucky (or you’re patient), you can catch a train passing by.

4. Yoho National Park – about an hour drive away from Lake Louise town, Yoho National Park is actually already in British Columbia. The highlights of Yoho National Park include the Natural Bridge, Emerald Lake, Meeting of the Waters viewpoint and Takkakaw Falls. Takkakaw Falls wasn’t particularly wide, but it was tall (taller than Niagara!). We climbed as high as we can without getting too wet or slipping on the wet rocks.

After three nights in Lake Louise, we drove to Jasper. The drive to Jasper was an adventure filled day. There were so many stops on the Icefields Parkway that it took us 8 hours to get to Jasper from Lake Louise. The town of Jasper was bigger than Lake Louise. There were actual restaurants and breweries where you can dine in. There are many hiking trails and it was hard to pick which ones to do when you only have three nights. We stayed at Maligne Lodge. It was the cheapest place that we can find at Jasper and I probably will not stay here again. The room had that typical motel chemical smell, and the only way I got rid of it was to have the windows open the entire time we were there. I did like that we had our own entrance and we can park the car right in front of the door, so we didn’t have to drag our luggage far. There were a lot more wildlife sightings in Jasper. We saw elk, goats, deer, but still no bears. Here are the Jasper highlights:

1. Icefields Parkway – from Lake Louise, our first stop was Herbert Lake. We got there just as the sun was rising and there was a mist on the lake. Next stop was Bow Lake. This place looked like a postcard with the lake and the mountains and glaciers surrounding it. Next was Mistaya Canyon, just a short hike of Highway 1 and worth the quick stop. We then went for a quick stop at the Toe of the Athabasca Glacier. It was also a short walk from the highway, but the temperature difference between the parking lot and closer to the glacier was noticeable. It was also sad to see the markers where that toe had been (much closer to the highway) and sad to think what that glacier will be like in the next few years as humans cause irreversible damage to Earth. Our next stop was Tangle Falls, another quick stop just off the highway and we climbed to the very top of the falls. The parking is on the opposite side of the falls so just be careful crossing the street. We then stopped at Rocky Mountain Lodge for a quick lunch (and a quick nap) before continuing onto Sunwapta Falls. Most people stayed to view just the Upper Falls, but we hiked the 1.8 KM to the Lower Falls. It was a nice, short hike in the woods, but the Lower Falls themselves were not as nice as the Upper Falls. Our last stop on the Icefields Parkway was Athabasca Falls. This is another short walk from the parking lot, and it would have been a nice place to take milky way photos had the skies been clear.

2. Hiking – we hiked Maligne Canyon, Medicine Lake, Pyramid Island, Annette Lake and Valley of Five Lakes. Valley of Five Lakes was my favourite. It was a short 4.8KM loop and you’re rewarded with views of five turquoise lakes. We started out early and there was barely anyone in the parking lot, but by the time we left before lunchtime, the lot was full.

3. Jasper Sky tram – this experience was equal parts amazing and disappointing. It was amazing because the views at the top are breathtaking. We hiked up to Whistler’s Summit and our breaths were literally gone by the time we got up there, both from the views and the struggle to hike to the summit. The climb up was steep and challenging, but the climb down was equally as harrowing. It was disappointing because at the bottom, they promised social distancing while riding the tram, and on the way up, it wasn’t bad. It was still crowded, and people were definitely not 6-feet apart, but it was a 5-minute tram-ride so it is one of those calculated risks we took. On the way down was another story. They herded you into these waiting rooms where everyone is squeezed in like sardines, and the tram occupancy limits that they enforced on the way up is thrown out the window on the way down. If we had gotten sick from Covid from this trip, it would have been because of this experience. The fee is $52 per person and they encourage you to book in advance. We walked up and had to wait an hour before we could get on the tram.

We enjoyed our time in Jasper, but all good things always come to an end sooner than you’d hope. After spending three nights in Jasper, we left early in the morning and drove to Banff. The drive back on the Icefields Parkway was like night and day difference. The smoke was gone by this time, and in the three days that we spent in Jasper, the leaves along the Parkway started to turn colours! Icefields Parkway was lined with trees with varying shades of yellow and I could have driven here all day. Instead of driving straight down Highway 1, we took the Bow Valley Parkway (Highway 1A) when we got to Lake Louise. The drive was slower but more scenic than Highway 1. We stayed at the Ptarmigan Inn in Banff. This was our favourite hotel out of the five that we stayed at. The room was big, it had a nice balcony, lots of storage place, and free breakfast to boot, and all this considering it was the cheapest out of all the hotels in the Rockies. With it being off season, and with Covid, the restaurants in Banff closed early. Like Jasper, you had to wear a mask in the town proper, even when outside. We only spent two nights in Banff and wish we could have stayed longer. We spent an evening watching the stars at Two Jack Lake. We did a short hike on Tunnel Mountain. We had a yummy lunch at Park Distillery. We went shopping, and just spent our last days in the Rockies relaxing.

After the Rockies, we drove back to Calgary and spent a few more nights with my brother before driving back to Winnipeg. It’s funny because it took a pandemic for me to see the Rockies. I’ve lived in Canada for three decades, and although I’ve been to Calgary a couple of times, we never really ventured any farther west than Banff. Later this month, we are heading to Vancouver and to Banff again, another Canadian trip, before international travel opens up again. Worse comes to worst, if we get locked down again later this year, then maybe it’s time to venture out west. I hear Quebec and the Maritimes are nice.

[thorsenmark]

It’s Always a Good Time to Explore Jasper National Park by Mark Stevens Via Flickr: A setting looking to the south-southeast while taking in views across this glacier valley with the Athabasca River flowing by and then more distant ridges and peaks of the Hooker Icefield range with Mount Brussels (Brussels Peak) and Mount Christie. This is at the Goats and Glacier Lookout along the Icefields Parkway in Jasper National Park. As opposed to a wider angle, panoramic view, I decided to zoom in with the focal length and have much of the forest and mountains fill the image from edge to edge with a little bit of the mostly to partly cloudy skies above that had some glow from the rising sun.

[rinasmamoon]

Goats and Glaciers lookout on a cloudy autumn day.

[fitllivinglifestyle]

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

[travelandhikewithpcos]

Things to do at Glacier National Park

Things to do at Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is one of the best national Park in US that is popular as “Crown of Continent”. The park has astonishing scenery and wilderness with 700 miles of hiking trail.  The Park is spread across million acres making the park to separate in different areas namely West Glacier, Going-To-The-Sun Road, Many Glacier, Two Medicines, North Fork, Goat Haunt (Canada).  

Under Bridge just…

[tweeopreis]

On the Road Again

If you view our visit to Melbourne as an 'amuse', and the Milford Track as the starter of our trip, the main course is sure to follow... Going from Queenstown to Auckland in 16 days by campervan! After picking up "Kermit" (see the pictures), it was time to make our way to the North. Our next major destination was Franz Josef Glacier, and the spectacular road took us up and down several mountains, beautiful lookout points and a quick stop in Unesco nature reserve Haast, where we saw some amazing flora near the shore.

Nature is boss

Unfortunately, the weather at both Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers didn't allow us to go visit them by helicopter, so we decided to drive on to Hokitika, an "artist town", that we'd call a suburb in Europe, except it's not attached to a city... They did have a lovely competition going on at their beach though, with sculptures made from things that had washed ashore in recent times. A worthy adversary to the sandcastles in Scheveningen in our opinion! We pulled up to a café in the middle of nowhere that offers camping with access to toilets for $5 a person, with access to their menu of burgers and beer just one minute away. Add a nice German couple and some glowworms, and a nice evening is guaranteed. If only they could get rid of the mosquitoes...

The next day featured a big drive to Nelson, split in two by a stop at Cape Foulwind to view a seal colony. In the words of the average American: OMG THEY'RE SOOO CUTE!!! ♥️❤️💖

Rules

Nelson is a place of extremes. It's one of a few places where you can 'freecamp' within city limits, but it also has a strict alcohol ban featuring a $200 instant fine. So we parked our ride in the middle of town and went straight to "The Free House", New Zealand's best pub according to someone on Foursquare. He knows what he's talking about. A church with great beers, friendly staff and the possibility to let the Indian place across the road deliver you food at your table. What else could you want?

We started our morning with a city stroll in pyjamas to the next parking lot that featured a 'superloo'. The $2 for the shower was money well spent and the coffee from the market hit the spot. Next stop: Abel Tasman national park for a day of kayaking. We spotted seals, birds and even a stingray! Back on shore we had a rendezvous with my cousin Anne, who happened to be in the neighbourhood! We finished the day with a round of my favourite game and planned to take a swim the next morning. Unfortunately, low tide meant that after a 300 metre walk into the sea, only our ankles had disappeared under water. So, after a fun stroll, we got back on tour, destination Nelson, where we practiced falling down without hitting the ground. In other words, we had our first paragliding experience! It's an amazing feeling to 'ride the thermals'. Our instructor's furthest flight ever was a 160 km!

To relieve our excitement, we went to the Smiths Farm. At this farm camping, you get up close to the goats, sheep and cows, although I had the feeling they were more interested in my wine than the food in my hand... There's also a nice place to spot glowworms best the farm, so amazing!

Wine (cont.)

Visiting Marlborough means exploring the wine country. So we rented us a few bikes and helmets (ugh) and started our 14 km tour. We can confirm the Sav Blanc and Pinot Noir are great, but we were also surprised by Rieslings, Chardonnays and a delicious Gewürztraminer. Needless to say, we returned to our campsite in a good mood, where we were happily surprised to see our German friends again! Unfortunately, Jacqueline's favourite German word (Treppenwitz) turned out to be completely unknown...

We started our last full day on the South Island with a dolphin tour in the Queen Charlotte Sound. Unfortunately we didn't get to swim with these amazing animals, but we did see several Hector's Dolphins, which only live here.

After some pies at New Zealand's finest bakery (De Bakkerij) we made our way to a nice, secluded campsite. Finally time to write a blogpost! Having a campervan gives a lot of freedom, but driving also means there's much less time to write these blogposts and prices the pictures that go with them. That's why we're a bit behind. We'll try to catch up, and if we don't make it while we're here, there's always the 31 hours of flying back...

– Marnix

Pictures

South Island I: The black picture is not black... South Island II: Let us know how many seals you spot in the first picture. South Island III: The sheep liked my wine more than the food I had with me...

[bigtinyworldtravel]

What is the most difficult hike you’ve ever done?

We thought we had seen our biggest hike when we scaled the ridge to the Torres Del Paine lookout. However, we had our work cut our for us at Fitz Roy!

Most of the hike was just fine. It had some gentle ups and downs, but it was mostly level. It wasn’t until the last kilometer or two – straight up – that we had any issues.

Perhaps it was the sheer distance of the day – in total, we clocked nearly 17 miles. Perhaps it was the fact that we underestimated it, thinking there was no way it could be as strenuous as Torres. Or perhaps it was because we preceded it with a 19-km hike the previous day…. but it was rough.

We decided to do it as a through-hike instead of an out and back. By taking a taxi up to Hostel Pilar, we could just hike our way back into El Chalten, with a detour to the viewpoint. This route provided us with more variety, and it cost only the taxi fare.

The morning was rainy, but this also gave us a beautiful rainbow. Along the way, we got to see another glacier – Glaciar Piedras Blancas. And still well within backpacking country, we passed a few camps. Next time, we would love to camp at the base of the final climb so we might see Fitz Roy at sunrise.

By hiking this direction, we had the added benefit of not seeing the spires until we reached the river just below them. Therefore, as we cleared the trees, we were surprised by the stunning vista before us.

The clouds had cleared, and the tips of Fitz Roy called to us.

The ascent was grueling. Countless rocky switchbacks lay before us, and the incline was relentless. This sign gave us hope that we were almost there, but it felt much longer than one kilometer.  It wasn’t until after we got home and I took a closer look at the photo that I noticed the writing underneath.  It reads, “son como 2km no sueñen”: “it’s like 2km; don’t dream.”  Ha!

We finally reached the top…. just to find it wasn’t really the top at all.  There was still one more rise!

Despite the disappointment, the final view was completely worth the agony. The weather was picture-perfect, with just a few spots of clouds to break up the monotony of blue sky. We were beside ourselves with the remarkable beauty of the place.

Many who visit stop there. However, we continued to the top of the little hill, which grants an amazing view of Fitz Roy, the two glacial lakes on either side, and the expansive view down into the valley. If you do this hike, don’t miss out on this extra gem!

The descent was obviously much faster, though we did have a bit of a traffic jam with those cautiously navigating the rocks.  Mountain-Goat-Dad wasn’t shy about bounding around the crowd, and before we knew it, he was long out of sight.  We caught up with him back at the river, though, taking a power nap in the afternoon sunshine.  He was in complete heaven with the sound of the bubbling brook behind him, and one of the most spectacular views above him.

Everything was mostly downhill from there, through dried lake beds and open fields.  We also came across a fork and opted for the path with the camp and lake view.  Looking behind us, the distant Fitz Roy was still beautiful.  We were glad the surprise wasn’t spoiled for us before we were right in its shadow.

And reaching the last stretch of trail, we were thankful we took it the direction we did.  The last two miles or so was straight down.. which means if we had done an out and back, we would have started with two miles at a steady uphill.  We’d much rather go down it.

Nearly 17 miles later, I had logged my very first 45k step day, and my feet were beat.  The brews were certainly well-earned that day.. if we could limp our way to the brewery!

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A Glimpse of Senda al #FitzRoy - This is a fantastic hike, and it's a must for anyone visiting #Patagonia. It is the longest #hike we've ever done, but the agony was worth the phenomenal pictures! #bigtinyworld @pn_losglaciares What is the most difficult hike you've ever done? We thought we had seen our biggest hike when we scaled the ridge to the…