#Little River Canyon National Preserve

[wandering-jana]

Little River Falls.

Little River Canyon National Preserve, Alabama

Oct. 2, 2024

[justdownthecreek]

DeSoto Falls on the Little River, near Mentone, AL

[catboybiologist]

The Sierras Nevada mountains bear ancient scars.

(Pic: the valley that forms the path of the Middle fork of the Kaweah River, going westward from the Kaweah gap. Sequoia NP.)

These relatively young mountains started as a plateau in Western North America (or rather, Laurasia) during the Cretaceous and early Paleogene. But soon afterwards, rivers carved a rugged landscape. As glaciation periods began ~30-40 mya, the advancing and retreating of rivers of ice from the mountaintops scoured this further into deep, granite canyons. Their scouring revealed buried pockets of magma, solidified into domes, spires, and monoliths, many of which are named and iconic.

(Pic: half dome viewed from El Capitan. Yosemite NP.)

Now, with humans, the fate of these canyons has been varied.

The Yosemite Valley is by far the most well known and recognizable of these canyons. While it is protected as a national park, it is one of the most famous and highly visited parks in the entire US, and a world famous recreation destination. Because of this, it's well preserved, but fairly built up. The Yosemite village has full time habitation from park workers, car traffic, two hotels, restaurants, shops, and more. A natural wonder and recreation destination to be sure, and the neighboring high country is extremely wild, but certainly notably built up.

(Pic: East Yosemite valley from the Yosemite falls trail. The Ahwanee hotel is visible on the left.)

Within the boundaries of the same national park is a sadder story: Hetch Hetchy. Hetch Hetchy valley, just North of the Yosemite valley, boasts similar granite features to Yosemite itself- but some are submerged forever. In the early 20th century, the valley was dammed and flooded to supply water to the booming city of San Francisco. It still does. Some proposals have been made to drain it, but some believe that the damage is already done.

(Pic: Hetch Hetchy reservoir. Only pic in this post not by me, taken from NPS website.)

Kings Canyon represents a middle ground. In 1940, General Grant national Park was expanded to include the canyon, and subsequently renamed Kings Canyon National Park, now jointly managed with Sequoia NP. Car access is possible, and there are visitor services at the bottom, but nothing in the scale of Yosemite. A more typical national park experience, it feels a lot more rugged and wild, while boasting many similar granite features.

(Pic: looking down the paradise valley as it connects to Kings Canyon.)

And then.... There's the Kern valley.

Tucked discreetly in the Southeast of the Sierras, relatively little people know of its existence, despite being as deep and grand as the others.

The reason for this is it's level of protection. The Kern Valley is a wilderness area of Sequoia NP- the highest level of protection for conservation in the United States. In wilderness zones, no permanent structures or roads are permitted- only hiking trails and primitive campsites.

Some parts of the lower Kern fall outside of this boundary, but the upper Kern is only accessible by multiple days on foot. Numerous hiking trails cross cross the area, including the High Sierra Trail, which I completed a week ago.

It's gorgeous, and even though it's used by hikers, it feels untouched by human hands.

But.

We can show it something else.

Some kind of .... Body part. That has a day of the week based following in this website.

That's right, you fools.

THIS IS ANOTHER TGIRL TUMMY TUESDAY POST!

On August 24th, I descended into the Kern from the West via the HST, and decided to show it what I know best- some good fucking tgirl tummy.

Happy Tuesday to the freaks, the degens, and the losers, and the business they get up to, to make their lives more interesting, whatever if may be.

Tags under the cut!

@lilithtransrights @xenasaur

@whalesharkcat @godless-of-the-hunt

@anarqueeen @shakukon-to @eruditegeek

@puzzlecatt @sagasolejma

@havingsecondthots @quinns-sinns

[nizar-dreams]

As amazing as Fantastic Beast is with all of the interesting creatures and additional lore, I loathe the take on the American Magical World. And not because American pride (‘Merica🇺🇸🦅🇺🇸🦅🇺🇸🦅) but because that might work in New York, but that social structure sure as fuck don’t work the farther west you get.

Each state is different, it gives them their charms, and each state also has… drumroll please 🥁🥁🥁🥁

NATIVE AMERICANS!!! Yes the people who’ve been on these lands since before the first of the 13 colonies even existed!!!

Can you imagine Magical America? The creatures who lived alongside tribes? The giant forests? Hell, the other sentient beings like the centaurs, goblins, elves, etc.? Imagine:

The great Rivers and Lakes guarded by the merfolk and swimming with the great salmons, occasionally assisting the tribes along their borders so they all may share what the waters have to offer them

The great Plains and Forests with centaur tribes being mighty and powerful, guardians of the lands and occasionally allying with the human tribes

Elves that are still short but mighty and healthy and who get mistaken for native children when they live alongside human tribes

Goblins living deep in the caves of mountains, living happily with little human interaction besides for trading for safe passages and materials.

Imagine the werewolves loving their inner wolves and having their own tribes and living peacefully in their homes.

Imagine that, for thousands, and hundreds of years they lived in peace, occasionally waring against themselves but things happen of course but they way the magic and earth had never been so healthy as it was. Gods imagine Yellowstone or the Grand Canyon? Or the Mojave Desert? The great basins, the plateaus…

And then, when the Europeans started claiming the land that the magical beings fought to protect the lands they have lived on for centuries, the creatures of the forest hiding the remnants of their great lands from human eyes and hands, protecting the magic that slowly dies as the land gets destroyed and the magical beings who called those lands home started to die and could no longer protect the land.

That they tried to cling and hide and fight for their homes with whatever they could, but when the magical Europeans got involved it just went to hell for the magical beings.

The Native Reservations, National Parks/Lands, and deep into the mountains, are some of the few places that magical creatures can live in relative peace. The centaurs are not as many, and the elves either live on the reservations or the forests. The goblins are not like their European kin, but they are not the same as they were, now instead of trade for safe passage it is trade for protection of human materials or trading for goblin creations. The merfolk have perished in most lakes and rivers where humans have polluted or hunted their food to extinction. The magical creatures who once lived on the land are either hunted down for sport or for being declared born of hell.

Now imagine Ilvermorny, created by a mother who wanted her children to learn magic, and turned into a way for tribes to take shelter and teach their ways as well as learn other ways for magic. The school cropping up in the midst of Magical Americas downfall becomes a place that the few tribes not driven out of their home learn different form of magic while creating a foundation for Native American magic to survive and be taught in the school. Imagine multiple sister schools (because America is too big for there ti be only one school) to the original Ilvermorny being created to teach, to embrace and preserve a culture they refuse to let be erased.

Years later and it is a core course that gets taught, and keeps a part of a culture alive that was on the bring of complete erasure.

Imagine that when African slaves started appearing and become enslave, those who escaped and found themselves at Ilvermorny schools, they started teaching their magics as well. Then as more minorities started to appear in America, so did the lessons in certain Ilvermorny schools where these minorities were prevalent.

America is a cauldron full of magical cultures being mixed, and Ilvermorny is the first to openly teach different magical cultures. The southern schools involve more Mexican, Spaniard, some French, and African magical courses, while the north is more French. The east coast is more influenced by British magics, while the west coast is influenced by the Spaniard, Chinese, and Russian.

They all had their own mix and all have the main course shared by the people who lived their first, but magical america is sooo much more more fascinating and so young still! There is still so much that I can’t possibly cover without a month of research! And we haven’t even reached the southern hemisphere!

Fantastic Beast is great, but it’s missing the uniqueness and complexity of America. And I can only dip a finger into the endless possibilities of the magical American world.

[feddy-34]

anyway here's a national park for every state (1/5)*

little river canyon national preserve, alabama

denali national park, alaska

grand canyon national park, arizona

hot springs national park, arkansas

yosemite national park, california

mesa verde national park, colorado

weir farm national historical park, connecticut

first state national historical park, delaware

everglades national park, florida

cumberland island national seashore, georgia

*DISCLAIMER: some states do not have national parks. instead they have national monuments, national seashores, national historical parks, etc.

[sixstringphonic]

Biden to Designate Monument Near Grand Canyon, Preventing Uranium Mining

Uranium extraction had already been restricted in the area, which Native tribes consider sacred, but the moratorium was set to expire in 2032. Mr. Biden’s designation will make it permanent.

(The New York Times, 8/8/23) President Biden will designate nearly a million acres of land near the Grand Canyon as a new national monument on Tuesday to protect the area from uranium mining, administration officials confirmed on Monday.

Mr. Biden’s visit to Arizona is part of a nationwide blitz by the White House to translate key policy victories to voters — including a law he signed last year to inject $370 billion in tax incentives into wind, solar and other renewable energy — as the 2024 campaign ramps up. Senior cabinet officials are also touring the country this week, highlighting his domestic agenda.

During his first stop of a three-state tour, Mr. Biden will announce that he is creating a national monument — the fifth such designation of his presidency — in an area sacred to Native American tribes, administration officials told reporters on Monday.

“The mining is off limits for future development in that area,” Ali Zaidi, Mr. Biden’s national climate adviser, told reporters on Air Force One. “It’s focused on preserving the historical resources” in the area.

Native tribes and environmental groups have long lobbied for the government to permanently protect the area around the Grand Canyon from uranium mining, which they say would damage the Colorado River watershed as well as areas with great cultural meaning for Native Americans.

Under the proposed designation, all new uranium mining will be blocked. Uranium mining has already been restricted in the area in question since 2012, but that Obama-era moratorium was set to expire in 2032. Mr. Biden’s designation would make the conditions permanent.

Mr. Biden’s visit to Arizona was also an effort to energize crucial constituency groups in the state, even as much of the American public remains skeptical of his domestic agenda.

Mr. Biden has called the Inflation Reduction Act — major legislation he signed last year that aims to cut planet-warming greenhouse gas emissions — “the largest investment ever in clean energy.” Yet 71 percent of Americans say they have heard “little” or “nothing at all” about the package one year later, according to a Washington Post-University of Maryland poll.

And most Americans — 57 percent — disapprove of his handling of climate change, according to the poll. Surveys show young voters, who turned out in force during the 2020 election, are particularly concerned about global warming.

Some environmental groups were left infuriated when Mr. Biden greenlit a drilling project known as Willow on pristine federal land in Alaska and mandated the sale of offshore drilling leases as part of a deal to pass the climate bill, undermining a campaign promise to ban drilling on federal lands.

“We know that polls don’t tell the entire story,” Karine Jean-Pierre, the White House press secretary, said on Monday when asked about why voters seemingly do not know what it is in Mr. Biden’s bills. As the administration continues to enact the various legislative packages, she said, “we’ll see Americans start to feel what we’ve been able to do in Washington.”

Native Americans were also a crucial voting bloc in Arizona in 2020, when the state voted for a Democratic presidential candidate for the first time since 1996. They made up 6 percent of Arizona’s electorate in 2020, larger than Mr. Biden’s margin for victory, according to the National Congress of American Indians.

More than 80 percent of Native American voters in 2020 agreed with the statement that “the federal government should return lands stolen from Native American tribes,” according to a 2022 poll conducted by the African American Research Collaborative.

“It is likely a strategic decision to focus on the Grand Canyon,” said Gabriel Sanchez, a fellow at the Brookings Institution who has researched voting trends among Native Americans.

“Many Native Americans do not vote based on party, but on which candidates will do the most to advance the interests of Native American communities.”

The National Mining Association called the monument designation “unwarranted” and said it would force the United States to rely on imported uranium from countries like Russia. Representative Bruce Westerman, Republican of Arkansas and the chairman of the House Committee on Natural Resources, blasted Mr. Biden for locking up domestic resources.

“This administration’s lack of reason knows no bounds, and their actions suggest that President Biden and his radical advisers won’t be satisfied until the entire federal estate is off limits and America is mired in dependency on our adversaries for our natural resources,” Mr. Westerman said in a statement.

The administration has argued that the proposed monument represents only 1.3 percent of the nation’s known uranium reserves.

“This is going to be a limit on future development in this space while being respectful of existing rights,” Mr. Zaidi said.

The area in question is called Baaj Nwaavjo I’tah Kukveni — Baaj Nwaavjo, meaning “where tribes roam,” for the Havasupai people, and I’tah Kukveni, or “our footprints,” for the Hopi tribe.

Earlier this year Mr. Biden created a new national monument, Spirit Mountain, in Nevada, insulating from development a half-million acres that are revered by Native Americans. He also restored and expanded protections for Bears Ears National Monument and Grand Staircase-Escalante in Utah, sites that are sacred to Native Americans and that had been opened to mining and drilling by the Trump administration.

In June, the Biden administration banned drilling for 20 years around Chaco Canyon in New Mexico, one of the nation’s oldest and most culturally significant Native American sites. (Source)

[heavenlybackside]

Little River Canyon National Preserve.

[astralforests]

little river canyon national preserve

[thenewpathfinder2024-2034]

The ultimate Alabama Waterfall Loop Road Trip takes you to 10 of the most beautiful falls you’ll find in the northern half of the state. The waterfalls are the star of this show, but this route will also take you through some of the more scenic parts of the state including the Little River Canyon National Preserve, Guntersville Lake, the Tennessee River, and Bankhead National Forest along the way. At around 465 miles and 10 hours of drive-time, you’ll want to break this up into a multi-day trip to give yourself plenty of time to enjoy each waterfall and the scenic surrounding areas of Alabama.

📍1) Walls of Jericho Waterfalls

📍2) Neversink Falls

📍3) DeSoto Falls

📍4) Little River Falls

📍5) Graces High Falls

📍6) Short Creek Falls

📍7) Noccalula Falls

📍8.) Turkey Creek Falls

📍9) Holmes Chapel Falls

📍10) Rainbow Falls

#Alabama #alabamalife #alabamaliving #explorealabama #visitalabama #travelalabama #yellowhammerstate #wallsofjericho #neversinkpit #birminghamalabama #birminghamal #huntsvillealabama #huntsvilleal #chattanooga #chattanoogatn #chattanoogafun #Tennessee #northgeorgia

[holidayexpertz]

Alabama offers a unique blend of Southern charm, rich history, and diverse landscapes. From its picturesque Gulf Coast beaches to its vibrant cities and scenic countryside, this state is an ideal destination for vacationers. Whether you’re looking to stay in a cozy cabin, a luxury villa, a beachside condo, or a countryside cottage, Holidayexpertz provides a variety of vacation homes by owner in Alabama to suit your needs.

Top Vacation Rentals in Alabama Beachfront Villas on the Gulf Coast: Perfect for beach lovers, these vacation homes offer stunning ocean views, easy access to the beach, and luxury amenities, ideal for family vacations or romantic getaways. Mountain Cabins in North Alabama: Surrounded by forests and natural beauty, these secluded cabins are perfect for a peaceful retreat, offering outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and boating. Luxury Condos in Birmingham: If you’re looking for an urban escape, choose a stylish condo in downtown Birmingham, close to restaurants, shopping, and top attractions. Countryside Cottages: Experience the charm of rural Alabama by staying in a cozy cottage, perfect for those who want a quiet escape with access to beautiful landscapes and local farms. Top Attractions of Alabama From historic landmarks to natural wonders, Alabama is full of exciting attractions for visitors. Whether you’re a history buff, nature enthusiast, or beach lover, Alabama offers something for everyone.

Gulf Shores and Orange Beach Located along Alabama’s Gulf Coast, Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are famous for their white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. These coastal destinations are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, fishing, and water sports. Vacationers can also enjoy a variety of beachside restaurants, shops, and entertainment options.

Gulf State Park: A beautiful natural area with hiking and biking trails, a fishing pier, and a golf course. Dolphin Cruises: Take a boat tour and spot playful dolphins in their natural habitat.

U.S. Space & Rocket Center (Huntsville) One of the most popular attractions in Alabama, the U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville showcases the history and future of space exploration. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits, see real rockets, and even participate in simulated space missions.

Space Camp: A fun and educational experience for kids and adults alike, where you can learn about space and astronaut training. Saturn V Rocket: Don’t miss the chance to see the Saturn V Rocket, one of the most famous rockets that took astronauts to the moon.

Birmingham Civil Rights Institute Alabama played a crucial role in the U.S. Civil Rights Movement, and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute offers a profound look into the struggle for equality. The museum features exhibits that highlight the history of the movement, including the events in Birmingham and across the South.

16th Street Baptist Church: Located near the Civil Rights Institute, this historic church was a key site in the Civil Rights Movement. Kelly Ingram Park: A nearby park with sculptures and monuments that commemorate the struggle for civil rights.

Mobile’s Historic District Founded in 1702, Mobile is one of the oldest cities in the United States, and its historic district is a beautiful blend of French, Spanish, and Creole architecture. Visitors can stroll through tree-lined streets, visit historic homes, and enjoy the vibrant culture of this Gulf Coast city.

USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park: A must-see attraction for history buffs, this park features the World War II battleship USS Alabama, as well as aircraft and military vehicles. Dauphin Street: The heart of Mobile’s historic downtown, where visitors can enjoy dining, shopping, and live entertainment.

Little River Canyon National Preserve Located in northeastern Alabama, Little River Canyon is one of the most stunning natural attractions in the state. The preserve offers hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic overlooks, making it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Little River Falls: A beautiful waterfall that can be easily accessed from the main road. Canyon Rim Drive: A scenic drive that offers breathtaking views of the canyon and surrounding landscape.

Montgomery’s Historic Sites As the capital of Alabama, Montgomery is rich in history and offers several key attractions related to the Civil Rights Movement and Alabama’s role in U.S. history.

Rosa Parks Museum: Dedicated to the life and legacy of Rosa Parks, this museum tells the story of the Montgomery Bus Boycott and the fight for civil rights. Alabama State Capitol: A historic building where Jefferson Davis was inaugurated as the president of the Confederacy, and where the Selma to Montgomery marches ended in 1965.

Cheaha State Park Home to the highest point in Alabama, Cheaha Mountain, this state park offers breathtaking views, hiking trails, and opportunities for camping and picnicking. It’s a great spot for those who love the outdoors and want to explore Alabama’s natural beauty.

Bald Rock Trail: A short, accessible trail that leads to stunning views from Bald Rock. Cheaha Lake: A peaceful lake where visitors can swim, fish, or relax by the water. Why Choose Holidayexpertz for Alabama Vacation Rentals by Owner? Holidayexpertz offers a wide range of vacation rentals by owner across Alabama, from beachside villas to mountain cabins. Here’s why choosing a rental through Holidayexpertz can enhance your vacation:

No Booking or Service Fees: Save money by booking directly with the owner, avoiding extra fees that come with traditional booking platforms. Variety of Options: Whether you’re looking for a cozy cottage, a luxury villa, or a modern condo, Holidayexpertz has the perfect vacation rental to fit your needs. Personalized Experiences: By renting directly from owners, you get local insights and personalized recommendations to make your stay unforgettable. Flexibility: With a vacation rental, you have the flexibility to cook your own meals, enjoy more space, and create a home-like experience. Book Your Alabama Vacation Today From the vibrant culture of Birmingham and Montgomery to the tranquil beaches of Gulf Shores and the natural beauty of Cheaha State Park, Alabama is a diverse and exciting destination for travelers. Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a romantic getaway, or a solo adventure, Holidayexpertz offers the best selection of vacation homes by owner in Alabama. Book your stay today and start exploring the heart of the South! https://www.holidayexpertz.com/

[boundlessexpeditions]

Explore Alabama: America's most underrated travel destination, full of hidden gems! Discover why Alabama is the most underrated travel destination in America with Boundless Expeditions! 🌟 Often overlooked, Alabama is a hidden gem brimming with Southern charm, rich history, and breathtaking natural beauty. From the stunning Gulf Shores beaches to the historic landmarks of Montgomery, this state offers something special for every traveler. Join us as we explore Alabama’s top attractions: US Space & Rocket Center, Huntsville - The ultimate destination for space enthusiasts, featuring the largest space museum in the world. Gulf Shores Beaches - Enjoy pristine white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters perfect for relaxing and water sports. Historic City of Montgomery - Walk through the birthplace of the Civil Rights Movement and explore the city’s vibrant history. Mobile Bay - A city rich in history, Southern charm, and a bustling arts scene. Little River Canyon National Preserve - Experience stunning landscapes and incredible hiking trails in one of Alabama’s best-kept secrets. Birmingham’s Civil Rights District - Delve into the pivotal role Birmingham played in the Civil Rights Movement. Cheaha State Park - Reach the highest point in Alabama and enjoy outdoor adventures surrounded by natural beauty. Selma to Montgomery National Historic Trail - Follow the historic 1965 Voting Rights March and reflect on Alabama’s powerful role in American history. Alabama truly is America’s most underrated travel destination. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, nature lover, or beachgoer, Alabama offers an unforgettable experience. Don’t miss out on these hidden gems! 🌄 Subscribe to Boundless Expeditions for more travel inspiration and discover why Alabama should be at the top of your travel list. Hit the notification bell so you never miss an adventure! 🔔 Start planning your trip to Alabama: The Most Underrated Travel Destination in America today! #Alabama #UnderratedTravelDestination #BoundlessExpeditions #SouthernCharm #USSpaceRocketCenter #GulfShores #CivilRights #NatureLovers #TravelHotspots #USA ��▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ ➡️ Click on the Community tab now and join the fun! We can't wait to see you there. ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ 📌 𝐓𝐢𝐦𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐦𝐩𝐬: 0:00 Introduction 0:37 Top Picks Overview 0:55 U.S. Space and Rocket Center, Huntsville 1:42 Gulf Shores Beaches 2:26 Historic City of Montgomery 3:08 Mobile Bay 3:46 Little River Canyon National Preserve 4:25 Birmingham's Civil Rights District 5:07 Cheaha State Park 5:43 Selma to Montgomery National Historic Trail 6:29 Alabama: Something for Everyone 7:13 Conclusion and Call to Action ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ 𝑫𝒊𝒔𝒄𝒍𝒐𝒔𝒖𝒓𝒆: As an affiliate, I may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through links in this video's description. They are at no extra cost to you. Alabama: The Most Underrated Travel Destination in America published first on https://www.youtube.com/@BoundlessExpeditions/

[gautammander]

10 Epic activities to do in the Sweden

Sweden offers a wealth of epic activities that cater to every traveller’s taste. From the vibrant city life of Stockholm's Gamla Stan, where historic charm meets modern convenience, to the awe-inspiring Icehotel in Jukkasjärvi, where visitors can sleep in rooms crafted entirely from ice, Sweden promises unique experiences at every turn. For those seeking adventure, Lapland beckons with exhilarating dog sledding excursions across pristine snowscapes, while Abisko National Park enchants with its hiking trails and the mesmerizing Northern Lights dancing in the Arctic sky. The Göteborg Archipelago offers a tranquil escape with its scenic islands and vibrant coastal culture, perfect for boat trips and seaside relaxation. 

History buffs can explore Visby's medieval treasures on the island of Gotland, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its ancient city walls and Hanseatic architecture. Meanwhile, Åre provides adrenaline-pumping skiing and snowboarding opportunities in Scandinavia's largest ski resort. For a truly unique stay, the Tree hotel in Harads offers futuristic treehouse accommodations amidst the tranquil forest, blending luxury with eco-friendly design. Finally, Laponia's UNESCO World Heritage Site status celebrates its vast wilderness and rich Sami cultural heritage, making Sweden a destination brimming with unforgettable adventures and cultural experiences.

Here are some epic activities to do in Sweden.

 1. Explore Gamla Stan in Stockholm: 

Gamla Stan, or Stockholm's Old Town, is a must-see because of its quaint little alleyways, vibrant architecture, and important historical locations like Stortorget Square and the Royal Palace. Explore museums, stroll down cobblestone streets, and take pleasure in quaint cafes and stores.

2. Take a look at the Vasa Museum: 

The amazingly preserved warship Vasa, which sank on her maiden voyage in 1628 and was reconstructed centuries later, is housed in Stockholm's Vasa Museum. With interactive exhibits and in-depth details about the ship's restoration, it offers an intriguing look into Sweden's maritime past.

3. Take a look at the Jukkasjärvi Icehotel: 

Every year, ice from the Torne River is used to rebuild the Icehotel, which is situated in the village of Jukkasjärvi. Aside from marvelling at ice creations, guests can partake in ice sculpting workshops and stay in accommodations composed completely of ice and snow. The Arctic is like no other.

4. Take a Lapland dog sled ride: 

There is dog sledding available in Lapland's untainted nature. Experience the exhilaration of being dragged through snow-covered terrain by huskies or Sami reindeer herding dogs while taking in the breathtaking beauty of the Nordic region.

5. A stroll around Abisko National Park: 

The Abisko Canyon and the Northern Lights are two of the park's most striking features. Abisko National Park is located in Swedish Lapland. Hiking routes offer stunning views of mountains, lakes, and Arctic vegetation and range in difficulty from leisurely strolls to strenuous treks.

6. Go around the archipelago of Göteborg: 

The gorgeous Göteborg Archipelago, which consists of more than 20 islands with charming fishing villages, sandy beaches, and serene nature reserves, is located just off the coast of Gothenburg. Go kayaking, take boat rides, or just kick back and take in the views along the coast.

7. Appreciate the Medieval Charm of Visby: 

Visby, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located on the island of Gotland, is well known for its Hanseatic architecture, cobblestone lanes, and intact medieval city walls. Take a trip back in time by visiting historical cathedrals, museums, and the yearly Medieval Week.

8. Åre ski resort: 

The largest and most well-known ski resort in Scandinavia, Åre, has a variety of slopes suitable for skiers of all ability levels. Experience the breathtaking mountain environment while engaging in activities like skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, and après-ski, regardless of your skill level.

9. Go to the Harads Treehotel: 

Various architects have created distinctive treehouse accommodations at the Treehotel in Harads. Saddle up in treetop accommodations such as the Mirrorcube or the UFO, and take in expansive vistas of the Lule River Valley. It is a peaceful forest environment that combines eco-friendly architecture with opulence.

10. Take a tour of the Laponia UNESCO World Heritage Site: 

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Laponia, or Swedish Lapland, is distinguished by its ecological and cultural value. Explore sizable wilderness regions, the cultural legacy of the Sámi people, and distinctive ecosystems like the Tavvavuoma mountain. Hiking, wildlife viewing, and experiencing traditional Sami culture are all highly recommended.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Sweden stands out as a captivating destination, offering a wide array of epic activities for travelers. Whether exploring Stockholm's historic charm, witnessing the Northern Lights in Abisko, or experiencing the thrill of skiing in Åre, Sweden promises unforgettable adventures. Visiting Sweden is straightforward for many travelers, as it is part of the Schengen Area, allowing visitors from many countries to enter without a Sweden visa for short stays. This accessibility enhances Sweden's appeal as a travel destination, welcoming visitors to explore its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and unique experiences. For those seeking a blend of luxury and nature, the Icehotel in Jukkasjärvi and the Treehotel in Harads offer exceptional stays amidst Arctic landscapes. Meanwhile, cultural enthusiasts can delve into Visby's medieval history or immerse themselves in the indigenous Sami traditions of Laponia. Overall, Sweden's diverse attractions cater to all interests and seasons, making it an ideal destination year-round. Whether for adventure, relaxation, or cultural exploration, Sweden's epic activities ensure a memorable journey for every traveler.

Read More:

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[justdownthecreek]

Little River Canyon National Preserve, near Fort Payne, AL

[dougrobyngoold]

Goosenecks & Natural Bridges - Bears Ears National Monument, UT

Everyone left this morning, so it is just Doug and I left at the campsite. We decided to do a little exploring and headed out to Goosenecks State Park and then on to Natural Bridges National Monument.

Impressive view from the rim at Goosenecks.

Look at the color of that water! It sure was a long way down to the river - definitely wanted to stay away from the edge.

After taking a short walk along the rim at Goosenecks, we drove over to Natural Bridges National Monument. We went on a nice loop hike - going from the parking area at Sipapu Bridge Viewpoint, down to Sipapu Bridge and over to Kachina Bridge, then up to the Kachina Bridge Viewpoint, and returning to the Sipapu Bridge Viewpoint parking area.

Looking down at Sipapu Bridge from the viewpoint.

Making our way down to Sipapu Bridge - ladders, railings, and steps were involved. It was a pretty steep descent!

Another view of Sipapu Bridge, just before the final descent to its base.

Sipapu Bridge - almost to its base!

Beautiful view of Sipapu Bridge from underneath.

We continued down the wash toward Kachina Bridge. It was a lovely walk, plenty of canyon walls and a bit of sand to trek through.

Gorgeous striated canyon walls as we neared Kachina Bridge.

Kachina Bridge - just before we walked under it.

Looking back at Kachina Bridge - it is impressive!

Just a short walk from Kachina Bridge are some petroglyphs and ruins. It was a bit of a scramble to get up to them, but well worth the effort.

There were pamphlets near the petroglyphs that provided detailed information about the site. The park does not promote this area, but if you stumble upon it, you are more than welcome to check it out.

It was now time to climb up out of the canyon - it was a steep climb back out and the temperatures were a bit warm by the time we got to the top. Luckily, there were a couple of stops during the climb to rest and take photos!

Beautiful view of the fall colors in the wash, as we made our way to the top.

One last view of Kachina Bridge as we climbed out of the wash.

We made it to the Kachina Bridge Viewpoint, crossed the road, and followed the trail back to Sipapu Bridge Viewpoint and to our truck. Great hike and thrilled to actually visit Natural Bridges - a place I had never been to before. Bears Ears National Monument is full of treasures, glad that it has been preserved for all of us to experience.

The two peaks in the distance are the "Bears Ears" of Bears Ears National Monument.

[thorsenmark]

Scenic and Historic New River Gorge National Park & Preserve by Mark Stevens Via Flickr: While on the Scenic Drive in the Canyon Rim portion of the national park with a view looking to the southwest. I decided to use the Fayette Station Bridge with its wooden drive as a leading line into the image. By angling my Nikon SLR camera slightly downward, I could create a little bit of a sweeping view that would have the hillside of trees as a backdrop for this national park setting. The yellows and greens of the trees would be that color contrast to complement the browns present in the lower portion of the image. The rest of the composition was spending a few moments to line myself and my Nikon SLR camera up and have that balanced view with the bridge and its structures.

[redrocksramblers]

Saturday 9/23 Today we drove up to Little River Canyon National . Preserve in northern Alabama. The river starts on the top of Lookout Mountain and courses through the upper Cumberland Plateau as the deepest and most extensive canyon and gorge system in the eastern US. The Preserve consists of more than 15,000 acres of land containing many rare and endangered species.

Scattered around the visitor center are concrete benches salvaged from a nearby bridge that was being replaced a few years ago and make an interesting example of how everyday things we frequently dispose of can be reused.