While horses may be more iconic of the American West, the humble mule is the animal of choice for such a trek. In fact, the iconic painting by Jacques-Louis David of Napoleon crossing the Alps on a noble white horse was propaganda. Napoleon actually crossed on a mule. Mules combine sure-footedness with the strength of a ho
The Giant Sequoia trees of Yosemite National Park are one of the most famous attractions of the park and a must-see. The famous Mariposa Grove is located just out of the Yosemite Valley right by the entrance to the p
The Great Smoky Mountains have a plethora of options when it comes to hiking trails. One can choose from trails leading to waterfalls, through old-growth forests, and trails with endless views. If one is planning on a multi-day backpacking trip, then reservations and permits are required for all overnight stays in the backcoun
Designated : The Smokies Were Designated As A UNESCO World Heritage Site In 1983
In summer the leaves are mature and out in full, in these months one can enjoy a dip in the roaring streams. In the Autumn one can gaze upon the stunning foliage of the Great Smoky Mountains and enjoy the crisp dry air of that time of y
As at the time of writing the Mariposa Grove is open to the public. Normally there is a free shuttle bus running from the parking lot to the entrance to the grove. But as of the time of writing that service has been suspended. Updates are on the National Park Service's websi
The park is one of Maine's greatest natural treasures and it is one of America's most visited national parks - in the top ten across the nation. It is famous for its landscapes, views, combining the land and sea, and its many classic hotels. It is also a great park to visit in the fa
The trail to Seawall Beach from Morse Mountain is ideal for those seeking a more leisurely journey into nature. The easy hike is great for all ages and skill levels. Those who make the trek through the scenic woods are likely to extend the adventure once they reach the spectacular beach. Grasses sway in the breeze, and dunes softly roll along the shore. During low tide, the sand stretches on for quite a bit, leaving behind plenty of colorful rocks and seashells to comb thro
Imagine oneself in the Old Wild West on a horseback ride in one of the world's most dazzling natural attractions. Horse (or mule) rides make one feel like a cowboy (or cowgirl) as one descends deep into the most famous canyon in the world. There are horse and mule rides in the Grand Canyon - with the option of spending the night in the can
The first French missionary colony in America was here on Mount Desert Island back in 1613. It was destroyed by the Colony of Virginia and heralded the long struggle in the continent between the English and the French and the English speaking colonists and the French colonists. This would eventually boil over into the French and Indian Wars and the French would be forced to cede it to the English. During the War of Independence, it was a part of Massachusetts before eventually becoming part of Ma
Those who accept the challenge will need to be ready for mud, slippery rocks, and iron-runged ladders as they ascend to the summit over 4,000 feet above sea level. The moss-dotted trees and lush ferns give the trail an almost prehistoric ambiance, a feeling that the solitude will only ampl
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most popular national park in the United States . It boasts some of the best scenery of the Appalachian Mountains and is located in Western North Carolina and over the state line taking up a bit of Eastern Tennes
The weekends bring tons of people (and dogs) out for a jaunt on the Ledges Trail. Go during the week to avoid crowds or on the weekend for the opportunity to pat the happy heads of nature hiking game maps|https://naturetrailinsight.com/-loving canines. The trail takes hikers through a magical forest that's richly saturated in green during the summertime and glowing with the colors of autumn in the fall. As if the leaf-peeping wasn't enough, guests will enjoy picturesque views from the summit of Pleasant Mountain. With views like these, it's quite pleasant, ind
Hikers will feel like characters in a fantasy novel as they make their way through enchanting, dense woods and shimmy along Knife's Edge, a narrow arete ridge that looks over the expansive wilderness. Those who make it to the summit will feel on top of the world, hugged by fog when it's cloudy and blessed with the views of a lifetime on a clear
The Puzzle Mountain Trail is ideal for hikers looking for a half-day trip that won't leave them completely drained. The sun shines in little slices through the forested canopies, giving way to viewpoints from rocky ledges. Peaceful streams dot the trail and add another layer of nature to enjoy. There are a couple of technical switchbacks and some scrambling to tackle, but the views of Grafton Notch scattered along the path will be motivation enough to make it to the