\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 A village sheltering around a hundred year-round residents, Waterton Townsite is your summertime headquarters for hotels, souvenirs and a variety of dining options in Waterton Lakes National Park. An 18-hole golf course is located just outside the townsite, and public tennis courts are located within the townsite. From here, hiking trails lead to waterfalls, bluffs, and other natural attractions. Scenic Akamina Parkway heads west to Cameron Lake. \b \par \par Camping and Other Lodging.\plain\f0\fs20 The historic Prince of Wales Hotel is one of the grandest hostelrys in Waterton. Rooms with views overlooking Waterton Lake are especially sought-after, so reserve early. The 82-room hotel also features a restaurant, cocktail lounge, tea room, and gift shop. For reservations, or to obtain additional information, please contact Glacier Park, Inc., 406-892-2525.\par \par In addition to the Prince of Wales, Waterton Townsite offers several other lodging options. These are: Bayshore Inn (403-859-2211), Aspen Village Inn (403-859-2255), Crandell Mountain Lodge (403-859-2288), El Cortez Motel (403-859-2366), and Kilmorey Lodge (403-859-2334). Of all these lodging options, Kilmorey Lodge is the only one open year-round. It has 23 rooms, dining facilities, and a cocktail lounge.\par \par Townsite Campground offers 238 sites, 95 of which have full hook ups. The campsites, which are situated on well-kept lawns and are available on a first-come, first-served basis, are suitable for tents or RVs. Open fires are prohibited. The campground is open from mid-May to mid-October. Contact Waterton Lakes National Park (voice: 403-859-2224, FAX: 403-859-2650) for additional information.\par \par Waterton Townsite\par Waterton Lakes National Park\par Waterton Park, AB TOK 2MO\par 403-859-2224\par 403-859-5109\par 403-859-2650
403-859-2650
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Crandell Mountain Campground is located off of the Red Rock Parkway in Blakiston Valley, about 11 miles (17.6 km) from Waterton Townsite. This centrally located forest setting is convenient to all parts of Waterton Lakes National Park. A short hiking trail leads to Crandell Lake. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging.\plain\f0\fs20 The campground offers 129 sites; 60 of these can accommodate RVs. Amenities include kitchen shelters, flush toilets, a disposal station, a playground, and a ranger station. The campground is open from mid-May through late September. For specific dates of operation and more detailed information, contact Waterton Lakes National Park headquarters.\par \par Crandell Mountain Campground\par Waterton Lakes National Park\par Waterton, AB TOK 2MO\par 403-859-5106\par 403-859-5136\par 403-859-2279
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 By the time DeSoto and his troops happened upon the area in 1541, evidence shows that Native Americans had been "taking the waters" at these thermal springs for a little over 200 years. Local legend has it that the place now set aside as Hot Springs National Park was a neutral zone for local tribes who gathered there in peace to trade and bathe in the mineral-rich water. After the U.S. acquired the land that would later become Arkansas in the Louisiana Purchase, pioneers settled this area in the Zig Zag Range of the Ouachita Mountains. Word of the therapeutic hot springs (at 143 degrees Fahrenheit, the water is laden with minerals) attracted a steady stream of visitors. Bathhouses were built at the foot of Hot Springs Mountain, where 47 springs flow to the surface at a rate of 850,000 gallons a day. The city of Hot Springs grew and prospered by the spa trade, and on April 20, 1832 the area was set aside as a national reserve to protect the thermal springs, predating the advent of the National Park Service. Hot Springs became the nation's 18th national park in 1921.
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\par By the 1950s, therapeutic bathing had been replaced by more advanced technologies in the treatment of arthritis and other ailments, and the opulent establishments along Bathhouse Row began to close and fall into disrepair. Today, only the Buckstaff operates as a traditional bathhouse along this historic stretch of Central Avenue. In the 1980s, local concerns and the National Park Service joined forces to restore this area to its former glory. The Fordyce Bathhouse reopened in 1989 after extensive renovation returned its elegant splendor. It now serves as the visitor center for the park.
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\par In addition to historic Bathhouse Row, Hot Springs National Park also encompasses much of Sugarloaf, Music, West, North, Hot Springs, and Indian Mountains, providing plenty of hiking trails, flowering trees and forests, and mountain views to satisfy those who want to take in the fresh air and scenery as well as the healthful waters. \b
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\par What to see and do. \plain\f0\fs20 Stop by the National Park Visitor Center in the Fordyce Bathhouse to see the opulent bathing facilities turn-of-the-century visitors came to expect when they "took the waters." Marble, mosaic tile, and stained glass adorn the three-story bathhouse, which is furnished with original tubs, steam cabinets, and therapy machines from the era. Video and film presentations introduce you to the park and to the rituals of therapeutic bathing. If your interest is piqued, the Buckstaff Bathhouse just down the row offers a full range of bathing services including steam rooms and massage. Then, stroll along the Grand Promenade, a landscaped brick lane behind Bathhouse Row. You'll pass by cascading hot spring water on your way to the Tufa Terrace Trail that leads you to several more secluded springs.
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\par Take in a sweeping 360 degree view of the city, nearby lakes, and the Ouachita Mountains from the 216-foot observation tower atop Hot Springs Mountain. There are two scenic drives through the park or, if you'd rather get out and walk, you can take your pick of over 25 miles of hiking trails. Picnic areas are located throughout the park. The Gulpha Gorge Campground provides 42 first-come, first-served campsites; there are no hookups available. Ample hotel accommodations and restaurants are available in the city of Hot Springs.
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\par The National Park Visitor Center in the Fordyce Bathhouse is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM. It is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day. The park sponsors a Volksmarsch, or People's March, annually in conjunction with the community's Oktoberfest celebration. Rangers give talks and lead walking tours during the summer months; check at the Visitor Center for more detailed information. The city of Hot Springs and its surrounding area offer a host of additional activities, from art gallery walks to horse racing at popular Oaklawn Park racetrack.\par \par Hot Springs National Park\par PO BOX 1860\par Bathhouse Row\par Hot Springs National Park, AR 71902\par 501-624-3383\par 501-624-1536
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 The opulent, ornate buildings being restored along Bathhouse Row today were not the first bathhouses to be erected along this stretch of Central Avenue. The original bathing establishments, some little more than canvas tents, were supplanted by wooden structures that either burned or gave way to more elaborate buildings. As the spa's wealth grew, so did the splendor of its bathing palaces. As therapeutic bathing waned in popularity the bathhouses fell into disrepair and all but one, the Buckstaff, closed. Today's visitors can drop by the Buckstaff for a full range of spa amenities, which are also available at several area hotels. If you want to see how the bathhouses looked in their prime, step into the marble and stained glass ambience of the Fordyce. Completely restored, the Fordyce now houses the visitor center for Hot Springs National Park. An ongoing renovation program has given a facelift to many of the bathhouses along the Row.
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\par Stroll along the landscaped Grand Promenade that runs behind Bathhouse Row, stopping at the north fountain to taste the water for yourself. Don't worry--a heat exchanger cools the water down to a drinkable temperature. Most of the springs along the Promenade have been covered to protect them from contamination (some early visitors actually soaked their feet in the hot water!), but some have been left open to view. At the end of the Promenade, by DeSoto Rock, the Cascade offers a look at the original appearance of the springs of Hot Springs Mountain, before they were landscaped in the 19th century. Various species of blue and green algae, the only plants that can withstand the high water temperature, thrive here. From the Grand Promenade, trails lead up to the Hot Springs Mountain Tower, and from there link up with more than 25 miles of hiking paths that wind through the park.\par \par Bathhouse Row\par PO Box 1860\par Hot Springs National Park\par Hot Springs, AR 71902\par 501-624-3383\par 501-623-1433\par 501-624-3458
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 To see how the Bathhouse Row establishments looked in their prime, step into the marble and stained glass ambiance of the Fordyce. Completely restored to its former glory in the late 1980s, the Fordyce now houses the visitor center for Hot Springs National Park, and is a museum of spa-life at the turn of the 19th century. Divided into women's and men's areas, 24 rooms have been furnished with thermal bathing equipment such as mechano-therapy machinery, chiropody tools, huge tiled tubs, steam cabinets, and massage tables, in addition to a billiard table and period piano.
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\par A film about the park and a video about therapeutic bathing are shown at the Visitor Center, and the Eastern National Park and Monument Association operates a bookstore on the premises. Guided group tours can be arranged. A daily schedule of park activities is posted in the lobby, and the park newspaper is available there as well.\par \par Hot Springs National Park Visitor Center\par PO Box 1860\par Hot Springs National Park\par Hot Springs, AR 71902\par 501-624-3383\par 501-624-3458
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 The Buckstaff Bathhouse is the last of the historic spa facilities along the Bathhouse Row to still operate as a bathhouse. Here, you can experience a full range of amenities, including hot mineral baths, steam rooms, and massage. The Buckstaff is open weekdays from 7 to 11:45 AM and from 1:30 to 3 PM, and Saturday mornings from 7 to 11:45. Open Saturday afternoons from 1:30 PM to 3:00 PM March through November.
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\par The Buckstaff is privately owned and operated, and a National Park Service concession.\par \par Buckstaff Bathhouse\par Bathhouse Row\par Hot Springs, AR 71901\par 501-623-2308
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 There's been an observation tower atop Hot Springs Mountain since before 1877. The first, a 75-foot structure built by Enoch Woolman, was destroyed by lightning. It was replaced by Rix Tower, built of steel to stand 165 feet high. The Rix Tower was replaced in 1983 by the current Hot Springs Mountain Tower, which rises 216 feet above the mountain peak. From this height, you'll marvel at a sweeping 360 degree view that includes the City of Hot Springs, the Diamond Lakes, and the surrounding Ouachita Mountains. \par \par The Hot Springs Mountain Tower is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM in spring, fall, and winter, and to 9 PM during the summer. For a fee, you may ride the glass elevator to the observation deck. There is a souvenir shop at the site. The Hot Springs Mountain Tower is a National Park Service concessionaire.\par \par Hot Springs Mountain Tower\par PO Box K\par Hot Springs, AR 71902\par 501-623-603
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 The secluded woods of Gulpha Gorge, at the foot of Hot Springs, North, and Indian Mountains, belie the fact that it lies hard by the city of Hot Springs. Trails lead through the gorge and over Gulpha Creek to the crests of North and Hot Springs Mountains. Keep an eye out for outcroppings of Novaculite along the trails; local Indians used this glossy stone to fashion arrow- and spearheads. In spring, expect to see the gorge bloom with wildflowers and dogwood. \b \par \par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 Gulpha Gorge Campground offers 43 paved sites (no hookups) on a first-come, first-served basis year-round. Most of the sites are shaded, and campers may stay a maximum of 14 days, at a rate of $10 per day. Restrooms, water, and a dump station are provided. \par \par Additional camping facilities, as well as hotels, motels, and restaurants, are available in the city of Hot Springs, which surrounds the national park.
r \par Gulpha Gorge Campground\par PO Box 1860\par Hot Springs National Park\par Hot Springs, AR 71902\par 501-624-3383\par 501-624-3458
The 143-degree-Fahrenheit water that flows from the base of Hot Springs Mountain has attracted humans to this site for over 200 years. Local legend has it that Native tribes met here in peace to experience the therapeutic benefits of the springs, and, as soon as American settlers began moving west, Hot Springs became such an important vacation destination that it came to be known as the "National Spa." In 1832, the federal government set aside a portion of Hot Springs as a "national reservation," the first land designated solely to preserve a natural resource. In 1921 the reservation became a national park.\par \par The city of Hot Springs boasts the only national park entirely within a city's limits, and people still flock here to "take the waters," watch the Thoroughbred racing at Oaklawn Park, and experience the many cultural and recreational opportunities that make this town of 35,750 the most popular tourist destination in Arkansas. The historic Bathhouse Row district, most of which has been opulently restored, contains a wealth of art galleries and fine shops, as well as the Buckstaff, the last historic bathhouse to still operate as a spa, and the elegant Fordyce, now the visitor center for Hot Springs National Park. Recreational opportunities include hiking, horseback riding, and sightseeing in the national park or the surrounding Ouachita National Forest, and swimming, boating, and waterskiing on one of the nearby Diamond Lakes. Golf and tennis are available at both private clubs and public parks.\par \par Hot Springs\par 134 Convention Boulevard\par Visitor and Convention Bureau\par Hot Springs, AR 7190
71902
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Time and erosion have carved out a natural wonder that is every bit as grand as its name. A mile deep and 18 miles across, this awe-inspiring gorge cuts across 277 miles of northern Arizona. Over the course of the day, sunlight on the exposed layers of rock creates an ever-changing set of postcard views dominated by golds, oranges, and hazy blues. Far below the rim, the mighty Colorado River twists and turns, alternating stretches of tranquil water with some of the world's most exciting white-water rapids. No one is sure exactly how the Colorado River formed this immense chasm over the last five million years, but exposed rocks deep within the canyon are more than one billion years old.
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\par Evidence shows that people have been living in and around the canyon for almost 4,000 years. The first Europeans, part of Coronado's expedition, saw the canyon in 1540 but it wasn't until 1883 that the first settler staked a claim to it. Drawn by the lure of mining gold and silver, prospectors soon realized it was easier to service the many tourists eager to visit the canyon. They were an eccentric and independent bunch, from Louis Boucher, the hermit of Hermit's Rest, who mined his claim and raised goldfish in a trough at Dripping Springs; to Ralph Cameron, who fought tooth and nail through the Arizona law courts to retain his right to the Bright Angel Trail, which he operated as a toll road; to the Kolb Brothers, who built a studio on the lip of the canyon and made a good living photographing tourists as they embarked on their mule-ride adventure below the rim. Today, the Grand Canyon attracts more than four million visitors a year. One of the National Park Service's most popular sites, the Grand Canyon is also a World Heritage site. \b
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\par What to see and do. \plain\f0\fs20 The Grand Canyon is made up of three main areas. Activity on the South Rim, the most heavily visited, is centered on Grand Canyon Village, adjacent to park headquarters. Across the canyon, the less heavily traveled North Rim is closed from late October to mid-May due to heavy snows. The third area, the Inner Canyon is made up of trails that lead to the canyon floor.
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\par A wonderful way to begin your trip to Grand Canyon is to take the train there. The Grand Canyon Railway offers daily trips to the canyon during the summer, and regularly scheduled trips year-round. When weather permits, a restored steam engine pulls restored period parlor cars from Williams, AZ, right into the heart of Grand Canyon Village. You can return the same day, or make lodge reservations and stay a while. Given the general traffic congestion the park suffers, especially during the summer, a train trip to the park is a welcome, restful alternative. Call 800-THE-TRAIN for more information. Reservations are essential.
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\par You can experience the majesty of the canyon on almost any activity level. Begin by stopping at park headquarters to pick up a copy of the free park newspaper, \i The Guide, \plain\f0\fs20 which details the day's events and weather. If your time is limited, head west from park headquarters on West Rim Drive, which offers classic panoramic views of the canyon. The drive is closed to automobile traffic from Memorial Day through September, but a free shuttle bus stops near the best vantage points. If you have more time, drive along East Rim Drive (Arizona Highway 64), which follows the South Rim for more than 26 miles. Across the canyon, the less traveled North Rim, with elevations of 7,600 to 8,803 feet, offers what some believe to be the park's most spectacular views. Other activities include the famous mule rides into the canyon proper (reservations should be made 11 months in advance), privately operated tours (both bus and air), free ranger-led programs, interpretive exhibits, guided and self-guided tours, museums and National Historic Landmarks, shops, and special events. Write for a free eight-page accessibility guide.
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\par If you prefer a more active visit, make a reservation with one of the many outfitters for a one- to two-week trip down the Colorado River. This is prime white-water rafting that offers breathtaking scenery and more than 200 miles of rapids and white water. Lava Falls, just east of Lake Mead National Recreation Area, is the ultimate in rafting excitement. Dam control allows for excellent conditions year-round. Other options include backcountry hiking, camping, and fishing (permits and licenses required). If you want to learn more about the canyon's ecology, contact the Grand Canyon Field Institute at 520-638-2485, to get a listing of its 50 three-day courses; these walks, hikes, and river trips let participants study wilderness skills, geology, photography, human history, and art.
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\par Note: The National Park Service considers all canyon hiking to be strenuous, due to the high altitude and extremes in temperature. Take plenty of water and keep in mind that it will take you twice as long to hike up out of the canyon as it took you to descend.\par \par Grand Canyon National Park\par PO Box 129\par Grand Canyon, AZ 86023\par 520-638-7888\par ___-___-____\par ___-___-____
The Kaibab National Forest holds the distinction of being divided into north and south districts by one of the natural wonders of the world: the Grand Canyon. The forest covers 1.5 million acres of land on either side of the gorge, and ranges in elevation from 5,500 feet to 10,418 feet at the summit of Kendrick Mountain. Kaibab National Forest features some of the most scenic recreation opportunities the southwest has to offer.
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\par Motorists can choose from several scenic drives through the forest. The Kaibab Plateau-North Rim Parkway (Hwy 67) passes through the evergreen forests and broad meadows as it provides access to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. History buffs will want to seek out portions of the Beale Wagon Road, a major pre-Civil War route to California, or drive a more recent major east-to-west route, Historic Route 66. A 22-mile stretch of the "Mother Road" has been designated as an official auto tour route through the forest; it is also popular with cyclists.
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\par The vast beauty of the landscape can best be experienced from close up. About 370 miles of trails wind through the forest, maintained largely by volunteer groups for hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking. In the four wilderness areas (Kanab Creek and Saddle Mountain in the north unit and Kendrick Mountain and Sycamore Canyon in the south unit), trails are restricted to foot and horse travel.
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\par Campers can choose from 380 campsites distributed throughout seven developed campgrounds with basic amenities such as drinking water, fire grates, picnic tables, and pit or flush toilets. Campgrounds at Dogtown, Whitehorse, Cataract, and Kaibab Lakes are favorites of anglers, while DeMotte, Jacob Lake, and Ten X campgrounds are located close to the Grand Canyon. Backcountry camping is permitted in most forest areas.
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\par Kaibab National Forest is a prime destination for winter sports enthusiasts, as well. In the south unit, over 21 trails are groomed for cross-country skiing, and many of the primitive roads in the north unit make wonderful nordic trails once the snow falls. Spring Valley Cross-Country Ski Area, located north of Parks, has eight miles of trails for every level of expertise, while downhill skiers head to Bill Williams Ski Area.
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\par Kaibab offers both historic sites and wonderful wildlife- and bird-watching opportunities. From prehistoric rock art to pioneer cabins, from the bald eagles that winter here to the mule deer, the pronghorn antelope, and the unique Kaibab squirrel that live in the forest year-round, there's something for every interest in this northern Arizona forest.\par \par Kaibab National Forest\par 800 S Sixth St\par Williams, AZ 86046\par 520-635-4707\par 520-635-2681
\b Overview. \plain\f0\fs20 Located at the canyon's heavily visited South Rim, Grand Canyon Village is both the park's administrative center and a historic district made up of landmark buildings. It began as a prospecting settlement in 1883, but the tourism industry soon replaced mining as the area's main economic source. The Santa Fe was the first railroad to build a depot here. In 1901, Train 282 arrived full of passengers from Flagstaff, and the village began to grow.
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\par Nine turn-of-the-century buildings have been left virtually unchanged to give visitors a historic flavor of the village. They include a stagecoach station, two photographic studios, a cabin, hotel, curio shop, trading post, Santa Fe's depot, and the National Park Service administration building. Other structures that are part of the historic district include mule and horse barns, a blacksmith shop, a post office, and a ranger dormitory.
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\par Some of the most popular historic sites include Kolb and Lookout Studios, rival photographic concerns both built at the canyon rim. The feisty Kolb Brothers built theirs first and supplemented their photography concession by screening Hollywood movies, holding dances, and running a soda fountain. Lookout Studio was built by the Fred Harvey Company in 1914 to compete with the Kolbs. The building was designed to be in harmony with its surroundings: its construction is rough-cut limestone and the rooftop was created to blend with canyon cliffs both in form and color. Today, Lookout Studio houses a bookstore, and Kolb Studio houses a gift shop and serves as headquarters for the Grand Canyon Field Institute.
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\par The elegant and pricey El Tovar Hotel was built by the Fred Harvey Company in 1905 and was home to the Harvey Girls, waitresses who were later made famous in a movie starring Judy Garland. The hotel's interior was designed in an eclectic style and contains parlors, a solarium, a rooftop garden, and music rooms. Nearby Hopi House was built by Santa Fe to resemble an adobe village and became both a studio and dwelling for Hopi craftspeople. The Hopi offered demonstrations of their craftmaking and the Harvey Company sold crafts and souvenirs. It still operates as an outlet for fine Hopi and Navajo craftwork. Verkamp's Curios is located near Hopi House and was built by John G. Verkamp in 1905. Souvenirs and crafts are sold here, and the Verkamp family still operates the shop.
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\par The Santa Fe Railway Station was built in 1909 in a rustic style designed to complement its surroundings. In the early part of the century, over half of the Grand Canyon's visitors traveled here by train. With the advent of the automobile, train travel became less and less popular until the station was finally closed in 1968. In 1989, the depot was reopened with train service from Williams, AZ, and today the Grand Canyon Railway brings hundreds to and from the park in restored parlor cars drawn by a steam engine, when weather permits. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 Grand Canyon Village contains the bulk of park accommodations and services. The El Tovar Hotel offers expensive but luxurious accommodations just yards from the canyon rim. Additional lodges stretch along the rim beside it, including modern Thunderbird and Kachina Lodges, and historic Bright Angel Lodge and Cabins. Maswik Lodge and Cabins is located south of the rim lodges, but is still within walking distance of all the rim-side amenities. To the east, near the visitor center, general store, clinic, gas station, post office, and bank, lies Yavapai Lodge, and the two village campgrounds. For all lodge accommodations, contact Grand Canyon National Park Lodges, 303-297-2757.
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\par Both Mather Campground and Trailer Village accommodate tent and RV camping, but Mather, with 350 paved, mostly shaded sites, does not offer any hookups. Modern restrooms are located in the campground, as well as a dump station (closed in winter), and laundry facilities and hot showers are located nearby. Reservations are strongly advised between April and November, and can be made by calling Biospherics, at 800-365-2267. Between December and March, sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. The average camping fee is $10 per night.
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\par While Trailer Village, located between Mather Campground and Yavapai Lodge, is intended for RVs and offers full hookups, a few of their 84 sites can accommodate tents. Trailer Village is a concession of the Fred Harvey Company, and you may make reservations by calling 303-297-2757. Sites are available at a rate of $17 per night.
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\par Note: The photo of Hopi House was provided courtesy of photographer Grey Crawford and Grand Canyon National Park Lodges.\par \par Grand Canyon Village\par PO Box 129\par Grand Canyon, AZ 86023\par 520-638-7888
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Phantom Ranch, built in 1922 on the floor of Grand Canyon near the confluence of the Colorado River and Bright Angel Creek, is a welcome sight at the end of a long day's hiking, mule-riding, or river-rafting below the rim. Cabins are usually reserved for members of Fred Harvey Company's two-day mule trips, but there are four dormitories available on site as well. The dining room offers a limited breakfast and dinner menu and provides boxed lunches. Both lodging and meals must be reserved in advance--usually many months in advance. Food and supplies reach Phantom Ranch on the back of a mule, the same way many guests arrive, so there are no bargain meal plans here. All meals are served family style, with breakfast weighing in at $12.64 w/tax, a dinner of beef stew at $17.62 w/tax, and a steak dinner at $28.14 w/tax. Boxed lunches go for $7.94 w/tax. As of this writing, accommodations are $64.89 w/tax for first two people, each additrional person $11.17 w/tax (up to 10 maximum) for a two-bunk cabin, and $22.34 w/tax for a dormitory bed. Call 303-297-2757 for price updates and to reserve meals or accommodations.
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\par Bright Angel Campground is located near Phantom Ranch. A backcountry permit is required to camp here; you should contact the park in advance of your visit to reserve a permit.\par \par Phantom Ranch\par PO Box 129\par Grand Canyon, AZ 86023\par 303-297-2757\par 520-638-7888
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Originally a Havasupai Trail leading down to Indian Garden, where the tribe cultivated squash, beans, and corn beside Garden Creek, the Bright Angel Trail eventually fell into the hands of brothers Ralph and Niles Cameron as part of their canyon mining claims. Ralph quickly determined that the trail was more a motherlode than any minerals he might find in the canyon, and set up a tourist toll road, charging a dollar per person on mule- or horseback. Other park trails such as South Kaibab and Hermit Trail were developed by the National Park Service and the Santa Fe Railroad as alternate routes from the rim to the river, since Ralph held tightly to his claim, even through the law courts of Arizona. In 1928, rights to the Bright Angel Trail were transferred to the National Park Service, and it continues to be the most popular below-the-rim trail in the park.
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\par The trail leads from South Rim, near the Bright Angel Lodge, down 4,380 feet to the Colorado River along a 7.8-mile trail. Day trip options include a six-mile round trip to Three-Mile Resthouse, or to Indian Gardens (4.6 miles below the rim) and on another 1.5 miles to Plateau Point for spectacular views of the Inner Gorge. In summer, water is available along the trail, although hikers should always carry plenty of water with them, but day hikers should take note: it will take you twice as long to climb out of the canyon as it did to descend to your below-the-rim destination. Monitor your stamina and plan accordingly. Of the hikers rescued every year along trails below the rim of the canyon, the great majority of these are over-tired, dehydrated day hikers who over-estimated their abilities. The Phantom Ranch, on the canyon floor along the banks of the Colorado River, requires a ten-mile hike below the rim, along the River Trail, accessible by the Bright Angel and South Kaibab. Hikers should never attempt a hike to the river or to the Phantom Ranch and back to the rim in one day.
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\par The Grand Canyon National Park Lodges offer mule rides from the South Rim to the canyon bottom along Bright Angel Trail. A two-day round trip to the Colorado River and Phantom Ranch is available, as well as a one-day trip that travels to Plateau Point and back. Contact the company or the Bright Angel Lodge transportation desk for further information. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 Backcountry campsites are located mid-way at Indian Garden, but a backcountry permit, reserved in advance, is required to stay there. On the floor of the canyon, reservations must be made months in advance to stay at Phantom Ranch. Bright Angel Campground, near Phantom Ranch, offers primitive camping accommodations to hikers with reserved backcountry permits. From here, hikers can return to the South Rim via South Kaibab or Bright Angel Trails, or continue through the canyon to the North Rim, via the North Kaibab Trail.\par \par Bright Angel Trail\par PO Box 129\par Grand Canyon , AZ 86023\par 520-638-7888
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Located near Yavapai Point at the east end of the paved portion of the Rim Nature Trail on the South Rim, this facility offers picture windows with panoramic views of the canyon as well as exhibits of canyon and Colorado River geology. Panels along the windows identify each named bluff, point, and promontory in view, as well as tributary canyons and the canyon-floor oasis of Phantom Ranch. Some geological exhibits can be seen at the Visitor Center. Open daily from 8 AM to 5 PM (extended in summer), the station features Junior Ranger programs for children under the age of 13, as well as video programs and ranger-led talks. Books, maps, posters, and other publications are for sale at the site.\par \par Yavapai Observation Station\par PO Box 129\par Grand Canyon, AZ 86023\par 520-638-7888
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Long before the Havasupai began farming below the rim at Indian Garden or prospectors began staking mineral claims and found tourism to be the true motherlode, a hardy band of Anasazi settled on the South Rim. The Tusayan Ruins, located south of the East Rim Drive between Grandview and Lipan Points, were first excavated in the 1930s and include living quarters, a plaza, storage buildings, and two kivas. Archaeologists speculate that the small habitation among the pinon pines supported about 30 people around A.D. 1185. A small museum on site exhibits models of the village as it might have looked, as well as artifacts recovered at the site or reflecting the Anasazi culture in general. Visits to the Tusayan Ruins and Museum are free of charge. This site is located near Desert View, and is open daily from 8 AM to 6 PM during the summer, and to 5 PM the remainder of the year. An illustrated guide to the ruins may be purchased for $.25 at the museum.\par \par Tusayan Ruins and Museum\par PO Box 129\par Grand Canyon, AZ 86023\par 520-638-7888
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 With a thousand-foot advantage in elevation over the South Rim, the North Rim affords visitors some of the most spectacular views in the park, and some wonderful hiking opportunities. The North Rim is more remote than the South Rim (they are situated only ten air miles from one another, but over 220 miles of road separates them), and is only open between May and October. No services or overnight facilities are available during the winter months, but the North Rim does offer day-use access, weather permitting. The access road, SR 67, is not plowed in the winter.
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\par From the Grand Canyon Lodge, close to the North Rim's visitor center and information station, you can hike out to Bright Angel Point. From your perch between the Transept, a side canyon, and Roaring Springs Canyon, you can hear the springs themselves, over 3,000 feet below you. Roaring Springs is the sole water source for both the North and South Rims, with South-Rim-bound water traveling through a pipeline to reach its final destination. The Transept Trail continues along the rim, or you can follow the North Kaibab Trail into the canyon itself. The trip to Roaring Springs, where you can reward your efforts with a cooling dip in the water, is almost ten miles, round trip, and will take most of the day. The North Kaibab Trail eventually reaches the Colorado River at Phantom Ranch on the canyon floor--a 14-mile hike, one way.
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\par Both short and long mule trips can be arranged from the North Rim on the North Kaibab Trail. The day-long trip to Roaring Springs and back includes lunch and a swim.
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\par In addition to the lodge and a campground, a general store and gas station are conveniently located nearby. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 The rustic, 1920s-era Grand Canyon Lodge was designed by Gilbert Stanley Underwood, the architect responsible for many historic national park lodges including Yosemite's elegant Ahawanee Hotel and lodges at Bryce Canyon and Zion. Picture windows punctuate the massive limestone and timber structure with stunning canyon views, and, in addition to the fine dining room, lodge hospitality includes an ice cream shop and a pub. The lodge features 201 units in all; you can choose a motel room or one of three types of cabins, a few with a view of the canyon. Call 303-297-2757 for reservations and rate information.
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\par The North Rim Campground is open from mid-May until October 21 and offers 82 sites without hookups. Laundry and shower facilities are located nearby; fees average $10 per night (call the Park Service for updated prices). Stays are limited to 7 days per season. Reservations are strongly recommended and may be made up to (but not more than), eight weeks in advance. Call Biospherics, Inc. at 800-365-2267. This is the only developed campground in this portion of the park; a permit is required for backcountry camping.\par \par North Rim Village\par PO Box 129\par Grand Canyon, AZ 86023\par 520-638-7888
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Point Imperial, eleven miles east of Grand Canyon Lodge on the canyon's North Rim, is the park's highest rim vantage point. From its 8,803-foot elevation, you can see sweeping vistas of the eastern canyon, the Painted Desert, Navajo Mountain, the deep gorge of the Little Colorado River, the Vermilion Cliffs, and the snowy summits of the San Francisco Peaks, 70 miles to the south. Far below, Nankoweap Creek winds through on its way to the Colorado. If you look carefully, you may see hikers far below you traveling along arduous Nankoweap Trail, which begins northeast of Point Imperial and travels 14 miles to Nankoweap Ruins on the canyon floor, 6,000 feet below the rim.
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\par Point Imperial is accessible via a spur road off scenic Cape Royal Road. At the end of this drive, 23 miles from the lodge, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking canyon views. A short nature trail opens up even more rim-side vistas, including picturesque Angel's Window.\par \par Point Imperial\par PO Box 129\par Grand Canyon, AZ 86023\par 520-638-7888
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 At the western end of the South Rim Nature Trail and the West Rim Drive lies Hermits Rest. Today the site consists of a rough-hewn stone building housing a curio shop, restrooms, and a snack bar (closed in winter). There really was a hermit, Louis Boucher, who lived nearby but below the rim at Dripping Springs for 21 years, beginning in 1891. He raised goldfish in a trough at the springs and mined his claim in Boucher Canyon. After Boucher departed, the Fred Harvey Company and the Santa Fe Railroad improved his trail from the rim and extended it to the river, calling it Hermit Trail. This steep trail, which begins just west of Hermits Rest, descends to the Tonto Trail which proceeds to the inner gorge and Hermit Rapids. From 1912 to 1930, tourists took two days to complete their trek to the Colorado, stopping midway at a camp on the Tonto Plateau. Today, only the foundations remain.
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\par Hikers on the upper portion of the trail can detour along the trail the hermit blazed from Dripping Springs to Boucher Canyon. The hike to Dripping Springs and back is approximately six miles, round trip, and takes about six hours. Hikers along any portion of Hermit Trail should note that it is not as regularly maintained as Bright Angel Trail, is generally steep, and can be subject to hazardous conditions. Please consult a ranger about the state of the trail before you set out, and, as on any hike below the rim, carry plenty of water and food, and allow yourself twice the time to hike out as it took you to hike in. Do not attempt to hike from the rim to the river and back in one day.\par \par Hermits Rest\par PO Box 129\par Grand Canyon, AZ 86023\par 520-638-7888
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 At Desert View, 26 miles east of Grand Canyon Village and just inside the AZ 64 entrance to the park, a masonry tower perches at one of the highest points on the canyon's South Rim. Built in 1932 by the Fred Harvey Company and the Santa Fe Railroad, the Watchtower was designed by architect Mary Jane Elizabeth Colter after an extensive study of ancient pueblo sites. The tower is Colter's interpretation of towers found in Anasazi ruins throughout the southwest, and incorporates a replica of a kiva, or ceremonial chamber, a viewing area with large windows, and numerous examples of Hopi and rock artwork within its walls. The tower also houses a gift shop, and hosts native artisans such a Navajo weavers who demonstrate their crafts. From both the Watchtower and rim level, you'll relish panoramic views of Cedar Mountain, Cardenas Butte, and the Colorado River, which winds along the canyon floor.
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\par Within easy walking distance of the Watchtower is a trading post with fountain service, a general store with groceries and other camping merchandise, and a gas station, although services are limited in winter. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 Desert View Campground is open from mid-May to mid-October; its 50 paved, pull-through sites (no hookups) are only available on a first-come, first-served basis. A maximum of two vehicles and six people are allowed per site; sites cost $10 each. A sanitary dump station, which is closed in winter, is located near Mather Campground in Grand Canyon Village.
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\par Note: The photo of Desert Watchtower was provided courtesy of photographer Grey Crawford and Grand Canyon National Park Lodges.\par \par Desert View\par PO Box 129\par Grand Canyon, AZ 86023\par 520-638-7888
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 The gateway town of Tusayan offers a host of restaurants, accommodations, and attractions just south of Grand Canyon's southern entrance station on AZ 64. Its close proximity to the national park makes it a convenient base for your exploration of the canyon and of other natural wonders nearby. From Grand Canyon Airport in Tusayan, you can arrange either an airplane or helicopter trip over the canyon, or to the Village of Supai on the Havasupai Indian Reservation, which is famed for its scenic waterfalls, but which is not accessible by car. You can arrange a white-water rafting tour through the canyon at Tusayan, as well. One of Tusayan's most famous attractions is the IMAX Theater's presentation of "Grand Canyon--The Hidden Secrets," which is presented in six-track Dolby sound on a seven-story-high screen. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging.\plain\f0\fs20 Both private and National Forest Service campgrounds are located in and around Tusayan, offering many sites and a range of amenities. There are several nationally known hotel chains located in town, as well as locally owned favorites. Contact the Grand Canyon Chamber of Commerce for a brochure and up-to-the-minute information.\par \par Tusayan\par PO Box 3007\par Grand Canyon Chamber of Commerce\par Grand Canyon, AZ 86023\par 520-638-2901\par 520-638-2901
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Supai Village, located on the Havasupai Reservation in Havasu Canyon, a southwestern tributary branch of the Grand Canyon, has been the tribal center for the Havasupai people since the 14th century. About 650 members of the tribe currently live in the village. It is adjacent to Grand Canyon National Park, but is not situated anywhere near South Rim or Grand Canyon Village. It is a remote place, only accessible on foot, horseback, or by helicopter.
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\par Four picturesque waterfalls are the main attraction in this area. Located several miles outside of the village along Havasu Creek, the falls range in height from 100 to almost 200 feet. Their blue-green waters are surrounded by some of the prettiest scenery in the canyon.
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\par People come here to camp next to the waterfalls, which are spread out over a two-mile distance. Supai and Navajo Falls are nearest to the village, Havasu Falls is a popular place for picnics, and a swimming hole is located at Mooney Falls. The Colorado River, with its wonderful white-water rafting opportunities, is accessible by hiking ten miles north of Supai though Havasu Canyon. In the village itself, a museum and craft shop feature historical exhibits about the tribe.
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\par The Havasupai believe that the human race originated in the Grand Canyon and regard the entire area as a sacred place. Please remember that when you visit the Havasupai Reservation you are on their land and must respect their laws and beliefs. Stay on trails, do not remove any artifacts, stones, or plants you may find, and keep the area clean. You are welcome to photograph the scenery, but please do not take pictures of the villagers or their homes. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 Havasu Campground is located along a 0.75-mile stretch of Havasu Creek between Havasu and Mooney Falls. The closer you get to Mooney Falls, the more secluded your camping experience will be. The campground is open between April and October; fees average $10 per night. Reservations are required, with a 50% deposit six weeks before your trip; major credit cards, cashier's checks, and money orders are accepted. Call for additional information.
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\par Modern Havasupai Lodge is located in the village proper and offers air-conditioned rooms with private baths. For reservations or additional information, call 520-448-2111.\par \par Village of Supai\par Supai, AZ 86435\par 520-448-2141
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Sequoia groves, wildflower meadows, and towering granite peaks leave no doubt that nature reigns in Yosemite National Park. In springtime, brodiea and thimbleberries dot the valley floor, and snowmelt creates a torrent of waterfalls with poetic names such as "Bridalveil." The verdant summer meadows give way to crisp, autumn weather, perfect for hiking. In winter, the park is covered in a mantle of snow, and cross-country skiers and snowshoe hikers make their way along park trails to unparalleled views.
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\par Yosemite Valley was an ancestral home to a large Miwok tribe, and is thought to have been inhabited by them for some 4,000 years before the Spanish arrived in California. When the first Europeans allegedly caught sight of the valley in 1833, Chief Tenaya and about 300 members of his tribe were living there. Territorial disputes brought about by the California Gold Rush destroyed the placid life of Tenaya's people and brought the military into the valley in the 1850s. Soldiers brought back tales of Yosemite's breathtaking beauty and, after Tenaya's death in 1853 ended the fight for his land, tourists began to venture in to see it for themselves. In 1864, Lincoln signed legislation to preserve Yosemite Valley and the Mariposa Grove; on October 1, 1890, it became a national park. Today, millions of visitors come each year to see Yosemite Valley, but the park has much more to offer.
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\par Yosemite's lowest terrain lies among the foothills below Arch Rock, 2,000 feet above sea level, while its highest point reaches the windy summit of 13,114-foot Mount Lyell. Located in the heart of eastern California's Sierra Nevada, it is home to a vast array of plants and animals. Through most of the park, great forests of pine, fir, and incense cedar flourish; below Yosemite Valley you'll encounter brushy chaparral, while the high elevations yield flower-strewn alpine meadows. Bears, mule deer, Steller's Jays and many other small animals and birds are among the park's year-round inhabitants. \b
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\par What to see and do. \plain\f0\fs20 Connoisseurs of the park say that visits during the off-season are a real treat. By this time, summer crowds have long gone and snow cover has transformed domes, trees, and foothills into a winter wonderland. The valley remains relatively temperate in winter, so hiking there is usually possible; most of the time the snow is limited to the park's upper reaches where cross-country skiing and snowshoe hiking become favorite activities. Badger Pass Ski Area, on the road to Glacier Point, is a popular winter destination in Yosemite, and offers nine downhill ski runs as well.
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\par Over 800 miles of hiking trails, including the John Muir and Pacific Crest National Scenic trails, lead you through meadows, along the Merced River, past waterfalls, or to the base of any one of the mountain lookout areas. Hiking is relatively easy along the flat floor of Yosemite Valley; hardier individuals venture into the foothills and backcountry where terrain is more rugged.
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\par Climbing enthusiasts flock to the park each year to take advantage of the sheer granite walls that characterize Yosemite's peaks. Half Dome, El Capitan, and
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\par Washington Column are among the most popular.
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\par Individual and group campgrounds are located throughout the park. Several are open year-round and are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Most Yosemite Valley campgrounds take reservations only. Wawona and Bridalveil group campgrounds are also available only by reservation; a maximum of 30 people are allowed at each group campsite. Campsites are limited in winter and many are booked well in advance, especially during the holidays. All facilities along the Tioga Road (SR 120--usually closed from November to late May or early June) are closed in winter. For campground reservations or additional information, call 800-436-7275.
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\par If you'd like to experience the high country without roughing it completely, try to book a space at one of the park's five High Sierra Camps. You must hike into these locations, which offer tent-cabins, but once you're there, breakfast and dinner are provided. High Sierra Camps are open from late June until Labor Day, and are so popular that you must win a lottery to reserve a spot at one. Contact Yosemite Reservations' High Sierra Desk, 209-454-2088, for more information. You'll find these camps marked with maroon tent/white background camping icons on the interactive map.
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\par The park offers four visitor centers: the Valley Visitor Center, the Big Oak Flat Information Station, Wawona Information Station, and Tuolumne Meadows Visitor Center. Additional concessions and facilities include the Ansel Adams Gallery in Yosemite Valley and the Yosemite Association Bookstore at the Valley Visitor Center. Other valley amenities include a grocery store, a mountain gear shop, and a children's store.
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\par Yosemite has four entrances. The south entrance is off of Highway 41, the Arch Rock entrance is near Highway 140, and the Tioga Pass and Big Oak Flat entrances are located off of Highway 120. Highway 140 may have construction delays and closures in the winter.
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\par Yosemite is one of the most popular national park destinations, with over four million people now visiting every year. The summer crowds, especially in the valley, far exceed what the park can actually handle. Your best bet is to visit in the fall, winter, or spring, when visitation is lower and you can actually enjoy the landscape without being jostled by crowds. If you must visit in summer, please park your car and walk or use the network of shuttle buses. Tourists and motorists are encouraged to see Yosemite via shuttle buses. You'll find your visit is more leisurely and more rewarding when you don't have to contend with traffic jams. Some of the trails are wheelchair accessible.
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\par It is recommended calling to obtain updated information regarding road closures, shuttle availability, events, permits, etc., as this changes frequently.\par \par Yosemite National Park\par P.O. Box 577\par Yosemite National Park, CA 95389\par 209-372-0265\par 209-372-0200\par 209-448-4333
One of the area's steepest mountains, June features tree-lined runs from two summits, accessible from the area's only QMC tram. It's a great family resort, with ski school for kids and licensed day care. The chalet cafeteria offers spectacular views. There is snowmaking on 15 percent of runs; snowboarding on park and half-pipe; and sledding and tubing, but no rentals. The ski school includes Telemark instruction and NASTAR racing. Ski day lodge.\par \par June Mountain Ski Area\par Hwy 158\par June Lake, CA 93529\par 760-648-7733\par 760-648-7367
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Approximately 100,000 years ago, a volcanic eruption occurred near what is now Mammoth Lakes, CA, filling the valley of the Middle Fork of the San Joaquin River with a layer of basalt lava 400 feet thick. As the lava cooled it began to crack vertically, eventually forming hexagonal columns. During the last ice age, 10,000 years ago, glaciation carved away most of the basalt, exposing a wall of columns 60 feet high and polishing the top of the formation, approximating the look of hexagonal tiling. Although basalt columns occur elsewhere in the world, the Devils Postpile is considered one of the finest examples of this geological phenomenon. \par \par Near the postpile, the Middle Fork of the San Joaquin plunges 101 feet over a lava cliff of rhyodacite and andesite, forming Rainbow Falls. The surging white water presents a striking contrast to the black backdrop of the cliff, and the midday sun adds to the effect, creating rainbows in the falls' mist. \b \par \par What to see and do. \plain\f0\fs20 Buses shuttle day-use visitors from Mammoth Mountain Inn to the Reds Meadows area from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM. From there you must hike along the Middle Fork of the San Joaquin to see the Devils Postpile and Rainbow Falls, which lie about two miles from one another. Short trails lead to the top of the postpile, where you can see the polished, tile-like tops of the basalt columns, and to the foot of Rainbow Falls, where a garden of ferns and wildflowers blooms in the mist. Once you've explored the postpile, cross over the river to see Soda Springs. The carbonated mineral water is evidence of volcanic activity deep below the monument. \par \par Both the John Muir Trail, which connects Yosemite and Kings Canyon/Sequoia National Parks, and the King Creek Trail pass through the monument, if you are interested in a more lengthy hike. If you have a valid California fishing license, you may try for trout along the Middle Fork of the San Joaquin River. \par \par There is a campground near the ranger station, operated on a first-come, first-served basis. Campers may drive into the monument and do not need to rely on the shuttle bus. Food, gas, and lodging are available in Mammoth Lakes and Reds Meadow. Dates of operation are provisional; the opening and closing of the season are dependent on weather conditions.\par \par Devils Postpile National Monument\par PO Box 501\par Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546\par 760-934-2289\par 209-565-3134
r 760-934-2289\par 209-565-3134
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Towering giant sequoia, lyrically beautiful alpine meadows, and the breathtaking crest of the Sierra Nevada define Sequoia National Park. Sequoia is home to the largest living thing on earth, the massive General Sherman Tree, and to the highest mountain in the lower 48 states, Mt. Whitney. In between these two landmarks are spectacular snowcapped peaks and deeply carved canyons, wildflower-strewn alpine glades and crystalline mountain lakes. The wonders extend even beneath the earth where, by touring Crystal Cave, you can see stalactites and stalagmites formed of shimmering calcite.
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\par Sequoia was California's first national park and the nation's second. It has grown through the years and now stretches from the western foothills of the Sierra to its highest crest. The latest addition was made in 1978, when the remote alpine wonderland of the Mineral King Valley was annexed to save it from commercial development. Whether you want to stay close to your car or embark on a hiking or pack trip into the high Sierran wilderness, Sequoia will present you with gorgeous Sierra vistas and breathtaking scenery. \b
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\par What to see and do. \plain\f0\fs20 You'll probably enter Sequoia National Park at Ash Mountain near the Foothills Visitor Center or at Grant Grove, along Generals Highway to Giant Forest and the Lodgepole Visitor Center. Stop by one of these centers to take in the exhibits and pick up a copy of \i Sequoia Bark, \plain\f0\fs20 the park newspaper. It contains important park information.
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\par The Giant Forest is the main attraction in Sequoia; the largest living thing on earth resides here. The gigantic General Sherman Tree, 275 feet tall with a base circumference of 103 feet, weighs in at an estimated 1,385 tons. Other trees may be taller than General Sherman, but none exceed it in sheer volume. The Congress Trail winds for two miles through the Giant Forest, thick with these huge conifers that grow taller than 300 feet and live for more than 3,000 years.
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\par Nearby Moro Rock overlooks Giant Forest and the canyon carved by the Middle Fork of the Kaweah River. From its 6,725-foot summit, over 4,000 feet above the valley floor, you can see over a hundred miles, from the California coastal ranges to the 13,000-foot-plus crest of the Great Western Divide. Alas, you can't see Mt. Whitney from here. It's obscured by the mountains between it and Moro Rock. Don't despair--the view is without peer, especially if you're there at sunset.
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\par Attractions near Moro Rock and Giant Forest include the Auto Log, where you can drive up onto a fallen Sequoia, and the Tunnel Log, where you can motor through another fallen giant. Sorry, RVs won't fit!
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\par Most of the park is spectacular backcountry, accessible only on foot or by pack animal. Horses, burros, and llamas are allowed on designated trails; check with the park for details. Mineral King Valley, open only in the summer, is the latest addition to this mountainous park. It is a lovely alpine region full of lakes, meadows, and mountain peaks. A rough road, closed in winter, leads into this area of the park. From there you're on your own. All overnight hikes require backcountry permits. If you choose to climb Mt. Whitney, you'll need to secure a special permit, even if you're only making a day hike from Inyo National Forest to the east of Sequoia. If you approach the peak from the west through the park, this permit is free for first come, first served, otherwise the fee is $10 for reservations. A small fee is required for those approaching from the east.
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\par Winter is a special time at Sequoia. The big trees are cloaked in a thick mantle of snow, and the park is uncrowded and quiet. Trails around the Giant Forest are marked for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, with a trail suitable to every level of expertise. The park is open year-round, but certain roads are closed in winter. Main roads are kept plowed, but may be closed temporarily by winter storms. Campgrounds are located throughout the western area of the park, but not all of these are open year-round. Call the park for more information on winter services.
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\par While visiting Sequoia, be sure to extend your exploration north to adjacent Kings Canyon National Park. Stop by Grant Grove to see the "Nation's Christmas Tree," the massive General Grant, then continue on along Kings Canyon Highway to scenic Cedar Grove where there is ample trail access to the high Sierran backcountry. Cedar Grove is only open during the summer.
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\par Please note: Park officials advise that all commercial facilities in Giant Forest Village will close completely in fall 1998. Services will then be located in Lodgepole, to the north of Giant Forest.\par \par Sequoia National Park\par Three Rivers, CA 93271\par 209-565-3341\par 209-565-3134\par 209-565-3797
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 A spectacular V-shaped canyon of granite and blue marble, even deeper than the Grand Canyon, gives this park its name. Kings Canyon, carved by the South Fork of the Kings River, is, at over 8,200 feet, the deepest canyon in North America. Add to that the stands of Giant Sequoia in Grant Grove and the tens of thousands of acres of backcountry spanning the lofty crest of the Sierra Nevada, and you have one of the most beautiful and wild parks in the nation.
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\par Administered jointly with Sequoia National Park, directly to the south, Kings Canyon offers visitors a wide range of outdoor activities and facilities, from comfortable driving tours to over 700 miles of rugged high-mountain trails. Grant Grove, home to General Grant, the "Nation's Christmas Tree," was established as General Grant National Park in 1890, mere days after its neighbor Sequoia was designated as America's second national park. Like Sequoia, it was formed to protect what remained of the stately groves of Giant Sequoia, threatened by logging operations. In 1940, the Cedar Grove and Sierra wilderness portions of the park were added and it was renamed "Kings Canyon." \b
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\par What to see and do. \plain\f0\fs20 Begin your visit at the Grant Grove Visitor Center, where you'll find interpretive displays and a fifteen-minute slide presentation on the biology and history of the area. Be sure to pick up a copy of \i Sequoia Bark, \plain\f0\fs20 the park newspaper. Then go out and explore. The General Grant Tree, only slightly smaller than the massive General Sherman Tree in Sequoia (the earth's largest living thing, in terms of sheer volume), is one mile northwest of the visitor center. The General Grant is a living shrine, dedicated to all Americans who have died in the cause of freedom. Trails lead from here to the North Grove, Sequoia Lake Overlook, and the Dead Giant. Be sure to visit Big Stump Basin where the forest is regenerating after devastating logging operations in the late 19th century claimed an ancient Sequoia grove. Before continuing to the canyon, drive up to Panoramic Point for breathtaking views of the high Sierra. Lodging, campgrounds, stables, and food services are located in and around Grant Grove Village.
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\par Kings Canyon reaches its deepest point at the foot of Spanish Mountain in the Sequoia National Forest north of Grant Grove and west of the rest of the park. The Kings Canyon Highway passes through the canyon, which in spring adds the vivid yellow of wildflowers to the blue marble of its walls. The route, closed by the threat of rock slides from November to April, leads to Cedar Grove, a glaciated valley surrounded by the canyon's lofty granite walls. The Cedar Grove Ranger Station, situated within convenient distance of lodging, campgrounds, and food services, is the information center for this part of the park. You can find maps and trail guides there, and rangers are on hand to answer questions.
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\par Along the park road, which ends at a loop called, appropriately, "Roads End," you can take advantage of pullouts with breathtaking views of the canyon. Easy hikes to Roaring River Falls and around Zumwalt Meadow offer glimpses into the canyon's unparalleled beauty. Roads End is the jumping-off point for many of the trails that lead into the eastern park wilderness and the high Sierra crests. From here, you can follow several paths that intersect with the popular and strenuous Pacific Crest Trail. If you don't want to trek overnight into the backcountry, you can still choose from a wide variety of day hikes, some easy and less than a mile long, and some, like the Don Cecil Trail to Lookout Peak, a strenuous 13-mile round-trip.
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\par Although the road into Cedar Grove is closed in winter, Grant Grove remains open and available for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Snowshoes and ski equiptment can be rented at the Grant Grove market. In winter, the great trees are draped in a heavy mantle of snow and a quiet, lovely scene awaits the visitor. The Azalea Campground is open year-round. Contact the park for more information on winter accommodations and road conditions.
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\par Don't miss Kings Canyon's sister park, Sequoia, directly to the south. There, in the Giant Forest, you can see General Sherman, the largest living thing on earth, and dense stands of trees that are almost as massive. A climb up the steep stair-trail to the summit of Moro Rock is rewarded by a breathtaking panorama, from the chaparral-covered Sierra foothills to the Great Western Divide. The Mineral King Valley, added to Sequoia in 1978, is a lovely alpine region of lakes, meadows, and mountains, and, if you're hardy enough, you may wish to tackle Mt. Whitney. At 14,494 feet, it is the highest peak in the lower 48 states. Take a challenging route through Sequoia's miles of mountain trails, or approach from the Inyo National Forest in the east, an easier, but still lengthy, hike.
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\par For more information on either park, call 209-565-3134. For lodging reservations at Grant Grove all year and Cedar Grove in summer, call 209-335-5500.\par \par Kings Canyon National Park\par East on CA 180 from CA 99\par Three Rivers, CA 93271\par 209-565-3341\par 209-565-3134\par 209-565-3797
This forest covers over a million acres of the southern Sierra Nevada in two units. Hume Lake Ranger District, the northern unit, is located to the west of Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. The southern unit consists of Tule River, Cannell Meadow, Greenhorn, and Hot Springs Ranger Districts. Its more than 900 miles of trails cover an area where the elevation ranges from about 1,000 feet to over 12,000 feet above sea level, and include three sections of the Pacific Crest Trail, 45 miles in all. Sequoia National Forest includes all or part of six wilderness areas: Dome Land, South Sierra, Golden Trout, Jennie Lakes, Monarch, and Kiavah.
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\par The forest lives up to its name, with 38 groves of giant sequoia covering over 15,000 acres. The National Forest System's largest tree, the 269-foot-tall Boole Tree, located in the Hume Lake Ranger District, has a base circumference of 112 feet.
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\par Besides hiking, the forest provides a wealth of summer recreational opportunities, most of which are water-related. The forest's lakes, streams, and rivers provide plenty of fishing, swimming, and boating for its eight million visitors per year. The forest's four designated Wild and Scenic Rivers make it a mecca for white-water rafters; many local concessionaires offer a variety of excursions for adventurers at every level of experience.
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\par Once the snow falls, snowmobilers and both downhill and cross-country skiers come to Sequoia National Forest to experience some of the most scenic and exciting winter recreation experiences available in southern California.
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\par Although, like any naturally scenic area, the forest is best experienced up close, on foot, skis, or horseback, the Western Divide Highway, which winds through the forest, offers motorists some of the most beautiful roadside views in California.
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\par The forest offers close to 50 separate campgrounds for family use, and provides group camping facilities, and a host of picnic areas, as well. Nearby communities provide food, lodging, and additional campgrounds, and Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Parks are adjacent to the forest's northern unit.\par \par Sequoia National Forest\par 900 West Grand Ave\par Porterville, CA 93257\par 209-784-1500
One of the first areas to be designated as a national forest (1897), Stanislaus National Forest is named for the Stanislaus River, which rises within the area. The forest covers over 895,000 acres of central Sierra gold country, and provides a wide range of recreational opportunities year-round.
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\par Anglers come from all over to cast for trout in over 800 miles of rivers and streams. Two of these rivers, the Tuolumne and the North Fork of the Stanislaus, also attract white-water enthusiasts. The run down the Tuolumne totals 18 miles, and the six-mile stretch of the Stanislaus' North Fork runs through California's deepest limestone gorge. Both rivers boast Class IV and V rapids, and should be attempted only by experienced white-water riders. Devotees of calmer water activities can choose among numerous lakes and reservoirs along the Stanislaus River for both swimming and boating.
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\par There are over 480 miles of trails and more than a thousand miles of abandoned roads traversing the forest to tempt hikers and equestrians. Mountain bikers fare even better: they can try out over 2,000 miles of unpaved and 150 miles of developed roads through the forest. In winter, cross-country skiers and snowmobilers find these paths to their liking.
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\par If you're seeking secluded backcountry, consider venturing into one of the three wilderness areas of the forest. Carson-Iceberg Wilderness stretches across the central peaks of the Sierra Nevada, Emigrant Wilderness is bordered by Yosemite National Park and covers a beautiful glaciated area of the central Sierra's western slopes, while scenic Mokelumne Wilderness features the stunning Mokelumne River Canyon. Travel within these areas is restricted to foot or horseback; contact the forest supervisor for more information.
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\par Campers will find over 1,000 developed campsites in the forest's 40 campgrounds. In addition, there are many areas open to primitive camping; forest officials can help you choose a spot if campgrounds are full. Reservations may be made at Pinecrest Campground and Pioneer Trail Group Campground in the Summit Ranger District by calling DESTINET (formerly MISTIX) at 800-283-CAMP. All other campgrounds are first-come, first-served, and offer no hookups, although several privately owned facilities in nearby communities offer full amenities. Most campgrounds limit stays to 14 days.\par \par Stanislaus National Forest\par 19777 Greeley Rd\par Sonora, CA 95370\par 209-532-3671
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 One of the most popular sites in the park for hikers and climbers, Half Dome is an 8,842-foot peak situated east of Little Yosemite Valley and centrally located in the park. Half Dome got its name because it literally looks like half of a dome; the sheer face of rock on one side was created by glacial movement during the last Ice Age and subsequent exfoliation.
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\par Several trails lead to its base; a typical route starts at the Happy Isles Nature Center, located eight miles from the peak, and head past Vernal Falls and Nevada Falls. When you reach Half Dome and gaze up at .15 mile of solid granite looming over you, it can be very intimidating.Those who brave the climb, supported only by a pair of waist-high steel cables anchored by poles set ten feet apart, are rewarded with an almost aerial view of the park; panoramic views extend for miles in every direction. The rock angle can be almost 50 degrees in spots, especially toward the top. A high-quality pair of hiking boots is recommended.
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\par Many hikers choose to make this an overnight hike, requiring a backcountry camping permit. Call 209-372-0740 for information or to make a reservation.\par \par Half Dome\par PO Box 577\par Yosemite National Park, CA 95389\par 209-372-0200
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Nothing prepares you for your first view of this verdant valley, site of huge granite cliffs, soaring peaks, towering monoliths, and some of the tallest waterfalls in the world. It is, quite simply, breathtaking: an inspiration to artists and naturalists such as Ansel Adams and John Muir. It's taken the Merced River millions of years to carve this valley; the glaciers that passed through during the last ice age assisted in the work and left behind the canyon we see today. The valley floor itself is flat, formed when the waters of ancient Lake Yosemite gave way to sedimentation.
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\par When the first white men came to the valley in the mid-19th century, they found it inhabited by a Miwok tribe who called their home "Ahwahnee," or "big gaping mouth." In 1855, the first tourists ventured in, curious to see this already legendary place of beauty for themselves, much the same as the more than four million people who visited the park last year.
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\par Most visitors want to see the valley's waterfalls, the most impressive of which are Bridalveil, Vernal, Nevada, Illilouette, and Yosemite, which plunges 2,425 feet down the north wall of the canyon. It is the highest waterfall in North America. The best time to see them is from March to May, after snow runoff and the rainy season. In late summer and autumn, some of the falls may be reduced to a trickle.
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\par A good way to start your exploration of the region is with a visit to the Valley Visitor Center, where you can see an interpretive slide show or natural history and cultural exhibits. A re-created Miwok village is located behind the center. Park rangers are on hand to answer questions, suggest good day hikes, and help you find your way around the park. The lodges and services in the valley offer many recreational opportunities, from relatively flat hiking and bicycling (rentals available), to fishing, swimming (in the Yosemite Lodge or Curry Village pools, or, if you like chilly water, in the river), rafting, and, in winter, ice skating. Many trails lead out of the valley into the high country; all of these hikes are considered strenuous, due to the steepness of the valley walls.
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\par Wildlife abounds in Yosemite, so you may see mule deer, Monarch butterflies, coyotes, black bears, and many species of birds. Wildflowers and flowering plants, conifer forests, groves of oak trees, and incense cedar and douglas fir also thrive in the valley. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging.\plain\f0\fs20 If money is no object and you can get a reservation, consider staying at the Ahwahnee. Built in 1927, this elegant granite lodge, furnished with antique American Indian rugs and baskets, boasts huge common rooms with massive stone hearths. The dining room features floor-to-ceiling picture windows that look out on the valley. Its 99 rooms and 24 cottages are expensive (over $200), and reservations must sometimes be made a year in advance. The Ahwahnee's annual Bracebridge Dinner is so popular that guests are chosen by lottery.
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\par Other lodges include Yosemite Lodge, with almost 250 motel units, and Curry Village and Housekeeping Camp, with 18 hotel rooms, 183 cabins, and 427 tent cabins. The Ahwahnee, Yosemite Lodge, and Curry Village are open year-round; the Housekeeping Camp is open spring to fall. For more information, call 209-252-4848.
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\par Yosemite Valley's campgrounds offer about 400 sites between them. There are no hookups, but all campgrounds have flush toilets and drinking water available. Picnic facilities and bear boxes for food storage are available at each campsite. A coin laundry, a dump station, and other park amenities are located close by, and showers may be purchased at Curry Village year-round and at the Housekeeping Camp during the summer.
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\par Campgrounds accommodating both tents and RVs include Lower Pines (80 sites), North Pines (85 sites), and Upper Pines (238 sites). Lower Pines is open year-round; the other three are open spring to fall. All of these campgrounds cost $15 per night. Reservations are required and may be made through DESTINET (formerly MISTIX). Call 800-436-7275. Sunnyside Walk-In Campground has 35 tent sites that cost $3 per person per night, limited to six people per site. The campground is open year-round, offering sites on a first-come, first-served basis.\par \par Yosemite Valley\par PO Box 577\par Yosemite National Park, CA 95389\par 209-372-0200
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 This grove of Giant Sequoia trees is located 35 miles south of Yosemite Valley and is the largest of three such groves in the park. The other two are Tuolumne and Merced, near Crane Flat. Sequoia are among the tallest trees in the world and the largest by volume, also; "Grizzly Giant" in Mariposa is 2,700 years old and about 210 feet tall.
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\par During the last century, the grove has suffered from both good and bad intentions. In the late 1800s, toll road owners cut tunnels through two old trees. And ironically, fire suppression reduced the germination of Sequoia seeds, which depend on fire, minimizing reproduction of the big trees. Rangers now manage fires in certain areas to simulate natural fire conditions and improve the ecosystem. To learn more about the Giant Sequoia and Mariposa Grove, visit the museum, located in the upper grove, which is open during the summer. Grove trails are open to both hiking and cross-country skiing.
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\par Vehicular traffic is limited to Mariposa Grove's parking area, and trams are in operation from May through October. Due to heavy summer traffic, motorists are encouraged to park at Wawona, only a few miles west of the Grove, and take one of the free shuttles to the site.\par \par Mariposa Grove\par PO Box 577\par Yosemite National Park, CA 95389\par 209-372-0200
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Tuolumne Meadows is the largest complex of subalpine meadows in the Sierra. At an altitude of almost 9,000 feet, the growing season is short--approximately 10 weeks--with wildflowers carpeting the meadows in the late spring and giving way to lush green grass in July and August. The Tuolumne River rises here and meanders around the meadows, which are edged by stands of lodgepole pines. In addition to their famous wildflower displays, the meadows are surrounded by spectacular Sierra peaks. Those who tackle the hike to the summit of Lembert Dome, which looms over the eastern end of the meadows, will be rewarded with breathtaking high country views.
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\par In summer, hikers can catch a bus from the valley to the meadows, 55 miles away, to take advantage of the trails that begin here and lead into the High Sierra backcountry. Day-trippers can take this bus, too, which makes photo opportunity stops along the way. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging.\plain\f0\fs20 Tuolumne Meadows is the center of high country activity at Yosemite, and features a lodge, a campground, food service, and a visitor center. Tuolumne Meadows Lodge offers tent cabins that share a common bath/shower facility, open in summer only. Call 209-372-1313 for more information.
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\par Tuolumne Meadows Campground is the most developed high country camping area, and features 314 tent and RV sites (no hookups). Amenities include flush toilets, fire grates, and a dump station, and campers may use the showers at the lodge for a small fee. The campground is open from June to mid-October, and half of the sites may be reserved in advance by calling DESTINET (formerly MISTIX) at 800-436-7275. Twenty-five sites are reserved for walk-in campers without vehicles, but stays are limited to one night. All other sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, and all sites are priced at $12 per night.\par \par Tuolumne Meadows\par PO Box 577\par Yosemite National Park, CA 95389\par 209-372-0200
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 This overlook gives visitors a stunning view of Half Dome, the High Sierra, and Yosemite Valley, 3,200 feet below. In fact, you can spot most of the major valley waterfalls and all of Yosemite's famous high country peaks from here. Some of the best times to take in this view, the finest panoramic vista in the park, are at sunset or under a full moon.
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\par Glacier Point is 32 miles by road from the valley, although hardy hikers can make the climb from the valley floor. If you don't feel like walking or driving there yourself, you can catch one of the regularly scheduled buses from the valley. Many day hikers choose to board an early bus and hike the lovely Panorama Trail from Glacier Point back down, passing by several waterfalls along the way.
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\par The road to Glacier Point is closed at Badger Pass Ski Area from November to May, but is still accessible by foot (with snowshoes) or on cross-country skis. Even in winter, this overlook is a popular destination.\par \par Glacier Point\par PO Box 577\par Yosemite National Park, CA 95389\par 209-372-0200
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 This dense and impressive copse of giant sequoia is home to the largest living thing on earth--the General Sherman Tree. Over 275 feet tall and close to 103 feet in circumference at its base, the General Sherman is estimated to weigh almost 1,400 tons. Its first branch is so high that a 13-story building can fit beneath it. There are taller trees among the Coastal Redwoods of northern California, but nothing can rival General Sherman for sheer volume. Each year, this 2,700-year-old giant adds enough new wood to its bulk to form a 60-foot-tall tree of "normal" proportions.
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\par Before visiting General Sherman, stop by the Lodgepole Visitor Center to orient yourself to the park. There, you can peruse a schedule of park activities and take in exhibits and audiovisual presentations about the giant sequoia and the Sierra Nevada. You can also buy tickets for the Crystal Cave tour (summers only; tickets are not available at the cave) and purchase trail brochures and books. Rangers are available to answer questions and offer advice.
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\par Take time to climb to the summit of Moro Rock for a bird's eye view of Giant Forest and breathtaking vistas of the high Sierra, then continue down the road to Crescent Meadow. On the way, you can drive over the Auto Log, a fallen sequoia, and through another, the famous Tunnel Log. Sorry RV-ers; the tunnel is too small for you to pass through. A side track bypasses the log if your vehicle is too big. Marshy Crescent Meadow is ringed round by giant sequoia, and a path leads from there to Tharp's Log, the dwelling of the first settler in the area. Indians guided Hale Tharp here in 1858 as he was searching for a place to graze his sheep. He decided to stay, and hollowed a home for himself in the trunk of a fallen tree.
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\par Many trails begin in the Giant Forest area that extend to the far reaches of the park. The High Sierra Trail passes through Crescent Meadow on its way to 6,000-foot-deep Kern Canyon. From there, hikers can reach the Pacific Crest and John Muir Trails and make their way to the summit of Mt. Whitney. This is a strenuous, multiple-day hike, and backcountry permits and access to Mt. Whitney must be granted before you set out. Permits are available at the Lodgepole Visitor Center.
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\par The Giant Forest/Lodgepole area of Sequoia remains open year-round,however, no visitor facilities are open during the winter, including the Visitor Center. Weekend cross-country ski rentals are available at Wolverton. Contact the park for information about winter services and road conditions. \b
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\par Camping and other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 Kings Canyon National Park Services Co. operates lodging in Giant Forest Village, an 83-room motel unit. These accommodations are available during the summer season. Please call 209-335-5500 to make reservations or to obtain further information.
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\par There is a cafeteria in the village that is open during the summer, and a campground near the visitor center at Lodgepole. A market and deli at Lodgepole may only be open in the summer. \b
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\par Please note: \plain\f0\fs20 Park officials advise that all commercial services in Giant Forest Village will close as of fall 1998. Services will still be available at Lodgepole, north of Giant Forest.\par \par Giant Forest Village\par Sequoia National Park\par Three Rivers, CA 93271\par 209-335-5500\par 209-335-5501
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Moro Rock rises 4,000 feet above the valley floor, just south of Giant Forest. On a clear day, views from the summit stretch as far as the Coastal Ranges of California, more than a hundred miles to the west. Moro Rock is one of the best places in the park to see the sweeping vista of the Sierra Nevada peaks to the east. From its summit, you can look straight down on the Kaweah River and the trees of Giant Forest, now dwarfed beneath your gaze. A two-mile trail to the summit originates at Giant Forest Village. If you don't choose to hike, the Moro Rock-Crescent Meadow Road will deposit you at Moro Rock's base. You'll still have to climb the step-trail to the top, but the view is well worth the effort, especially if you plan to be there at sunset.\par \par Moro Rock\par Sequoia National Park\par Three Rivers, CA 93271\par 209-565-3341\par 209-565-3134
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 In the 1960s, developers dreamed of turning the beautiful slopes surrounding the Mineral King Valley into a ski resort, but public opposition was so great that the plan was abandoned. Instead, the area was annexed to Sequoia National Park in 1978 and now Mineral King, with its snowy peaks, lush alpine meadows, and crystalline mountain lakes, is a favorite gateway to the backcountry. Closed in the winter, the rough, twisting, 25-mile-long road to Mineral King allows only the most determined visitors to have access to its remote trails. In summer, a schedule of ranger-led hikes and other activities is posted at the Mineral King Ranger Station, where they also have plenty of maps so you can take off and hike on your own, if you wish. Be aware, however, that the base elevation here is 7,500 feet. You'll need to take the altitude into consideration as you plan your trek.
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\par You can spend a day hiking amid Mineral King's alpine meadows, or you can backpack into the mountains from here. Upper Big Five Lakes (pictured) are a 15-mile, overnight hike from Mineral King. Trails from Mineral King eventually intersect with the High Sierra Trail, and from there to the Pacific Crest and John Muir Trails. Remember that backcountry permits are required for all wilderness camping, and they can be reserved in advance. An additional permit is required if you plan to hike to Mount Whitney. Call the park for more details.
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\par This remote area may have thwarted the optimistic prospectors who named Mineral King in the 1870s and then came home with empty pockets, but it is a treasure for anyone seeking the beauty, solitude, and challenge of a pristine alpine landscape. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 Cold Springs Campground serves the Mineral King Valley. Atwell Mill Campground is also along the road into Mineral King. Cold Springs and Atwell Mill are first-come, first-served, and charge $6 a night. The nearest park lodging is in Giant Forest Village, but there is no easy access road connecting the two park regions.\par \par Mineral King\par Sequoia National Park\par Three Rivers, CA 93271\par 209-565-3341\par 209-565-3134
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Foothills Visitor Center also serves as park headquarters for Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. Located at the southern Ash Mountain entrance to Sequoia, the visitor center provides park information and a schedule of ranger-led activities. Trail maps and brochures, park maps, and informative publications are for sale. You'll want to pick up the latest issue of \i Sequoia Bark\plain\f0\fs20 , the parks' free newspaper. There are also new displays about the unique foothills environment. Rangers are on site year-round to help you plan your visit to both Sequoia and Kings Canyon.\par \par Foothills Visitor Center\par Sequoia National Park\par Three Rivers, CA 93271\par 209-565-3341\par 209-565-3134
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Visitors to Sequoia who expect to see its highest mountain, also the loftiest peak in the lower 48 states, from the western, more civilized reaches of the park will be disappointed. The high crests and peaks of the Great Western Divide completely obscure Mount Whitney from viewpoints at Moro Rock and Panoramic Point in Kings Canyon National Park. Approach from Inyo National Forest in the Owens Valley east of the park, though, and Mount Whitney looms over the valley and all the other Sierra summits.
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\par The hike to the top of Mount Whitney, when begun from trailheads originating at Whitney Portal east of Sequoia, is not particularly gruelling by mountaineering standards, but it is quite long. This is not a day hike, although day hikers can easily reach the mountain's flanks. Hiking in from the west and the high Sierra regions of Sequoia, however, is very challenging. No matter how you approach, the National Park Service now requires special access permits for \b any hikes \plain\f0\fs20 in the vicinity of Mount Whitney. The "Mount Whitney Zone," which hikers may enter only with permit, includes a three-square-mile area that extends from just west of Whitney Portal to the summit, then to Timberline Lake, near Crabtree, west of the peak. Backcountry hikers should reserve their special Mount Whitney permits when they reserve their backcountry camping permits. Day hikers may reserve permits in advance by contacting the Inyo National Forest. Some permits may be available on a first-come, first-served basis on the day of your hike, but there is no guarantee. Hikers approaching from the west and Sequoia National Park may reserve the permits for $10; hikers approaching through Inyo National Forest to the east of the peak must pay a nominal fee. Contact Sequoia National Park or Inyo National Forest for further information. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 There are no developed National Park Service campgrounds in the vicinity of Mount Whitney. Inyo National Forest administers a campground at Whitney Portal and further accommodations are available in the town of Lone Pine, east of Sequoia and Whitney Portal.\par \par Mount Whitney\par Sequoia National Park\par Three Rivers, CA 93271\par 209-565-3341\par 209-565-3134
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Tickets for Crystal Cave, a highly decorated cavern carved by water into the marble that underlies the mountain landscape, are available at both Lodgepole and Foothills Visitor Centers only. A narrow, winding road, closed in winter, leads to the cave; buses, trailers, and vehicles more than 20 feet long are prohibited. To reach the cave, you must hike a steep, half-mile path. The 50-minute tour loops for a half mile through the cave's maze of passageways, offering a look at such chambers as the Organ Room, the Dome Room, and 175-foot-long Marble Hall.
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\par One of almost 180 marble-solution caves in Kings Canyon and Sequoia, and one of the most accessible, Crystal Cave's shimmering stalactites, stalagmites, and flowstone have been preserved in near-pristine state. Tours operate only in summer between 11 AM and 4 PM, and tickets must be purchased at one of the Sequoia visitor centers. \b \par \par Camping and Other Lodging.\plain\f0\fs20 The most convenient campgrounds to Crystal Cave are Potwisha, which allows both tents and RVs, and Buckeye Flat, a tents-only site. Both are located along the park road between the Ash Mountain entrance and Giant Forest Village, north of the turnoff for Crystal Cave. There is no camping available at Crystal Cave, and the road is not suitable for large vehicles. \par \par Note: No tickets are sold at the cave itself. \par \par Crystal Cave\par Sequoia National Park\par Three Rivers, CA 93271\par 209-565-3341\par 209-565-3134
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\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 You'll have to pack your gear and hike eleven and a half miles into Bearpaw High Sierra Camp, but it's well worth the effort. Located at Bearpaw Meadow, near the banks of the Middle Fork of the Kaweah River, the camp lies in the shadow of 12,040-foot Eagle Scout Peak. You'll have ample opportunity for hiking and enjoying the spectacular Sierra scenery. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging.\plain\f0\fs20 Bearpaw High Sierra Camp offers six tent-cabins with showers and restroom facilities nearby. Homestyle meals are provided for all guests and are included in the rate. For reservations or to obtain further information, please contact Kings Canyon Park Services Co. at 209-335-5500. \par \par Bearpaw High Sierra Camp\par PO Box 909\par Kings Canyon Park Services Co.\par Kings Canyon National Park, CA 93633\par 209-335-5500\par 209-335-5502
anyon National Park, CA 93633\par 209-335-5500\par 209-335-5502
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Located just off the Generals Highway between Grant Grove in Kings Canyon National Park and Sequoia's Giant Forest, Dorst Campground is an ideal and centrally located base for exploring both parks. A trail from the campground will take you to scenic, secluded Muir Grove. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 Dorst Campground offers 218 sites (no hookups) from Memorial Day to Labor Day. A dump station, flush toilets, and drinking water are available on site. Campers may stay a maximum of 14 days, at a rate of $12 per day. All sites are on a first-come, first-served basis.\par \par Dorst Campground\par Sequoia National Park\par Three Rivers, CA 93271\par 209-565-3341\par 209-565-3134
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Lodgepole Campground is located north of Giant Forest, near the visitor center and service area. In addition to its close proximity to the Giant Forest Grove, Lodgepole is also within easy driving distance of Grant Grove in Kings Canyon National Park, and trails that originate near the campground eventually connect with backcountry trails leading deep into the Sierran wilderness to the east.
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\par If you're up for a beautiful and easy hike, try Tokopah Falls Trail, which starts at the campground and ends where the Marble Fork of the Kaweah River plunges into stunning Tokopah Canyon. A round trip of 3.4 miles, this day hike will take you from two and a half to four hours to complete.
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\par After your hike, you can fish for trout along the Marble Fork of the Kaweah, or, if you're hardy and don't mind cold mountain water, you might want to take a dip in the river.
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\par In winter, daily cross-country ski rentals, as well as camping and a snack bar are available at Wolverton. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 Lodgepole Campground offers 250 sites (no hookups). Between mid-May and mid-October, campsites must be reserved in advance through Biospherics, Inc, 1-800-365-2267. There is a 14-day camping limit in force during the summer; camping fees are $14 per night during the reservation period and $12 per night in the off-season. During the winter when there is snow on the ground camping is relocated to Wolverton.
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\par There is a dump station (summers only) at Lodgepole, as well as restrooms, shower, and laundry facilities. A camp store, and snack bar are located nearby, as is the Lodgepole Visitor Center. There are no gas stations in Lodgepole.
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\par Winter storms may temporarily close park roads and campgrounds. Call ahead for weather and road conditions if you're planning a winter visit.\par \par Lodgepole Campground\par Sequoia National Park\par Three Rivers, CA 93271\par 209-565-3341\par 209-565-3134
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Potwisha Campground, open year-round, is located north of the Foothills Visitor Center and south of Giant Forest, which makes it a convenient base of operations for exploring the western part of Sequoia National Park. You won't want to miss the Indian exhibit at Hospital Rock, a few miles north of the campground. This was home to a native tribe from prehistoric times to the 1870s, when they finally succumbed to diseases brought by European settlers and explorers. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 Potwisha Campground offers 44 paved sites on a first-come, first-served basis year-round. A dump station and restrooms are located on site. Campers may stay a maximum of 14 days during the summer season, at a rate of $12 per day.
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\par While the campground is open year-round, be aware that winter storms may temporarily close park roads and campgrounds. Call ahead for weather and road conditions if you're planning a winter visit.\par \par Potwisha Campground\par Sequoia National Park\par Three Rivers, CA 93271\par 209-565-3341\par 209-565-3134
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Buckeye Flat Campground is located between Potwisha and Giant Forest, near Hospital Rock. A native tribe lived in the area from prehistoric times until it succumbed to diseases brought in by European explorers and settlers in the 1870s. An exhibit at Hospital Rock will tell you more about them. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 Buckeye Flat offers 28 tent campsites on a first-come, first-served basis from mid-April to mid-September. Flush toilets and drinking water are available on site. Campers may stay a maximum of 14 days, at a rate of $12 per day. Trailers and RVs are not permitted.\par \par Buckeye Flat Campground\par Sequoia National Park\par Three Rivers, CA 93271\par 209-565-3341\par 209-565-3134
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Atwell Mill Campground is located west of the private community of Silver City, about halfway along the road to Mineral King. From the campground, you can hike the Atwell-Hockett Trail south to scenic Hockett Meadows, or head north to intersect with trails leading east to the Sierra peaks or west to Giant Forest. Of course, you can continue down the road to Mineral King to take advantage of the area's fine alpine hiking trails. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 Atwell Mill offers 21 tent sites on a first-come, first-served basis from Memorial Day to mid-November. Pit toilets and drinking water are available on site; showers are located nearby. Campers may stay a maximum of 14 days, for a fee of $6 per day. Trailers and RVs are not permitted.\par \par Atwell Mill Campground\par Sequoia National Park\par Three Rivers, CA 93271\par 209-565-3341\par 209-565-3134
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 South Fork Campground is located just inside the southwest boundary of Sequoia and is accessible by the road that forks east from Highway 198 north of Lake Kaweah. It is a good base for hiking adventures into the park and the Sequoia National Forest that lies to the south and east. From the trailhead at the campground, you can hike through the Garfield Grove of Sequoia, then turn toward Hockett Meadows and points north, or you can continue traveling east to connect with trails into Mineral King, Kern Canyon, or Mount Whitney, all ambitious, multiple-day hikes. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 South Fork Campground offers 13 tent sites on a first-come, first-served basis from mid-May through October. Pit toilets are available on site; campers must bring in their own water. Campers may stay a maximum of 14 days, at a rate of $6 per day.\par \par South Fork Campground\par Sequoia National Park\par Three Rivers, CA 93271\par 209-565-3341\par 209-565-3134
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Located at the end of the road to Mineral King, Cold Springs Campground provides an ideal base for staging hikes into the alpine reaches of the Mineral King Valley and the peaks of the high Sierra. From here, you can hike into spectacular Kern Canyon, then head north to connect with the Pacific Crest and John Muir Trails on your way to the summit of Mount Whitney. The local ranger station, located near the campground, provides daily hiking programs in the summer. Consult the \i Sequoia Bark \plain\f0\fs20 or the ranger on duty for more information. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 Cold Springs Campground offers 37 tent sites on a first-come, first-served basis from Memorial Day to mid-October. A ranger station is located nearby; pit toilets and drinking water are available on site. Showers are available at a private, rustic resort several miles from the campground. Campers may stay a maximum of 14 days, at a rate of $6 per day. Trailers and RVs are not permitted.\par \par Cold Springs Campground\par Sequoia National Park\par Three Rivers, CA 93271\par 209-565-3341\par 209-565-3134
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 This is the oldest portion of Kings Canyon, originally established in 1890 as General Grant National Park. The aim was to prevent further logging of the stands of Sequoia located in the small area. If you enter the park from the west on Route 180 from Fresno, you will drive right by the Big Stump Basin, a stunning example of how logging decimated the Sequoia groves. Here, also, you can see for yourself how the forest regenerates after such devastation. This area is strewn with stumps, fallen trees, and even a few huge piles of sawdust, as well as the encouraging green of new growth.
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\par Small as their numbers are, these trees are tenacious. One trail in Big Stump Basin leads to the Sawed Tree: more than a century ago, the loggers working on this tree stopped sawing with only a few inches left to go. Today, it still stands and continues to grow, despite the gash that should have brought it down.
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\par The 267-foot-tall General Grant Tree lends its name to the grove. In addition to being the "Nation's Christmas Tree," General Grant is also a living shrine to Americans who gave their lives in the name of freedom. Stroll the easy, paved, half-mile trail around the grove and visit the Robert E. Lee Tree, only a bit smaller than rival Grant. Trails radiating from the General Grant Tree area include treks to Sequoia Lake overlook, the Dead Giant, and the North Grove, a lightly traveled area where you can drink in the beauty of the big trees in relative seclusion.
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\par Be sure to stop by the Grant Grove Village Visitor Center to learn more about the natural history of the Sequoia groves, the area's past as a logging site and, later, as a national park. Visitors can attend a ten-minute slide presentation and introduction to Kings Canyon. Grant Grove Village Visitor Center is open year-round. Contact the park for information on the winter schedule for other village services.
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\par South of Grant Grove, in Redwood Canyon, you'll find the world's largest grove of its largest trees. Access is by trail only. Both day and overnight hikes are options, but you'll need a backcountry permit if you plan to camp along the trail. Redwood Canyon is a scenic destination in itself, with its rippling creeks and pretty cascades nestled amid the dense, green stands of trees.
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\par On your way to Cedar Grove, be sure to detour to Panoramic Point where a sweeping Sierra vista awaits you. From this vantage point, you can identify many of the highest peaks in the range. The road here, closed in winter, is steep, narrow, and winding, and large vehicles are discouraged from attempting it. From Panoramic Point, hikers can pick up the Park Ridge Trail, a scenic, four-mile-long loop. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 For lodging, food, and other visitor services, look no farther than Grant Grove Village. Grant Grove Lodge, operated by Kings Canyon Park Services Co., offers 52 cabins, nine with baths. Central restroom and shower facilities are provided for the remaining rustic cabins. Accommodations are available year-round. To make reservations or obtain additional information, call 209-335-2856.
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\par In addition to the lodge, a coffee shop, and stables are located here, and three campgrounds, Sunset, Crystal Springs, and Azalea, surround the village. Sunset Campground offers 119 paved sites (no hookups) between late May and mid-September on a first-come, first-served basis. Restrooms are located on site. Crystal Springs Campground offers 66 paved sites (no hookups) on a first-come, first-served basis. The campground is open from late May to late September, and provides restrooms on site. Azalea Campground is open year-round, and offers 114 paved sites (no hookups) on a first-come, first-served basis. Restrooms and a dump station are provided on site.
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\par A camp store and snack bar are conveniently located near the campgrounds. Campers may stay a maximum of 14 days during the summer season; rates year-round are $12 per day. While Azalea Campground is open year-round, be aware that winter storms may temporarily close park roads and campgrounds. Call ahead for weather and road conditions if you're planning a winter visit.\par \par Grant Grove Village\par Kings Canyon National Park\par Three Rivers, CA 93271\par 209-335-5500\par 209-335-5501
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 The deepest point of Kings Canyon, which at 8,200 feet is also the ultimate depth of any canyon in North America, occurs on national forest land near the confluence of the Middle and South Forks of the Kings River. The spectacular view of the canyon's granite and blue marble walls is accented in spring and summer with vivid wildflowers.
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\par Kings Canyon Highway (Route 180) extends through the canyon into the park boundaries, dead-ending few miles past Cedar Grove Village at Roads End. Here, the V-shaped canyon becomes a U-shaped valley, and stands of incense cedars blanket the valley floor. Wildflowers abound, too, and the bird-watching at Cedar Grove is excellent. Take time to pull off the road and visit the designated viewpoints. The work of glaciers, the sculptors of this widened valley, is clearly evident from Canyon View. Grand Sentinel, a monolith rising over three thousand feet from the valley floor, is best seen from Grand Sentinel Viewpoint, about five miles east of Cedar Grove Village.
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\par The best way to see Kings Canyon and Cedar Grove is to get out of your car and walk. There are a number of trails in the area, some short and easy, and some long and strenuous. Many trails that originate at Roads End intersect with other backcountry trails, and many trips into the high Sierra begin here. From Roads End, you can eventually hook up with the Pacific Crest Trail. This trail can also be hiked, allowing a more intimate view of the valley and less stress on your shock absorbers or struts. Other short trails lead to exuberant Roaring River Falls and Knapp's Cabin, where well-off businessman George Knapp stored his elaborate fishing gear during the 1920s.
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\par Don't miss a refreshing stroll around Zumwalt Meadow, where canyon and river views blend with the lovely expanse of wildflower-strewn meadow to create an unparalleled hiking experience. The one-mile trail around the meadow takes about an hour to complete. Many longer trail loops begin near Cedar Grove Village or the Kings Canyon Highway. Some are over ten miles long and quite difficult. Trail guides and sage advice are available from the ranger station at Cedar Grove Village.
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\par Kings Canyon Highway through the canyon and into Cedar Grove is closed from November to April due to threat of winter rock slides. Contact the park for dates of operation and for services at Cedar Grove. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 Cedar Grove Lodge, operated by Kings Canyon Park Services Co., offers 18 air-conditioned guest rooms with queen-size beds and private showers. A snack bar, gift shop, and market are located at the lodge, which is open from late May to the end of September. To make reservations or obtain additional information, call 209-335-5500.
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\par There are three public campgrounds and a group camping facility located at or near Cedar Village. Moraine Campground offers 120 gravel sites (no hookups) on a first-come, first-served basis from mid-May to mid-September. Restrooms are available on site. Campers may stay a maximum of 14 days, at a rate of $12 per day.
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\par Sentinel Campground offers 83 paved sites (no hookups) on a first-come, first-served basis from mid-May to mid-September. Restrooms are provided on site, and there is a snack bar located nearby. Campers may stay a maximum of 14 days, at a rate of $12 per day.
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\par Sheep Creek Campground offers 111 paved sites (no hookups) on a first-come, first-served basis from mid-May to mid-September. Restrooms and a dump station are available on site. Campers may stay a maximum of 14 days, at a rate of $12 per day.
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\par Additional amenities include a ranger information station. There are no gas stations in Cedar Grove.\par \par Cedar Grove Village\par Kings Canyon National Park\par Three Rivers, CA 93271\par 209-565-3341\par 209-561-3314
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Thought by some to be the most beautiful of Yosemite Valley's waterfalls, Bridalveil drops 620 feet to the floor of the canyon near its western end. The Ahwahneechee, historic natives of Yosemite, called the falls "Pohono," which means "spirit of the puffing wind." As the water descends over sheer granite, the wind often blows the thin stream from side to side. It is best seen in the afternoon, when rainbows often play in the mist. A short hike leads from the parking lot to the base of the falls.\par \par Bridalveil Fall\par PO Box 577\par Yosemite National Park, CA 95389\par 209-372-0200
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Thought to be the world's largest single chunk of exposed granite, El Capitan towers more than 3,500 feet over the western end of Yosemite Valley. It's a favorite with rock climbers, and you're likely to see climbers attempting the sheer ascent as you gaze up at it. You'll need sharp eyes though: those near the top will be close to 350 stories above you. Never fear, you don't have to climb the face to reach the summit. A strenuous eight-mile trek along the Yosemite Falls Trail will get you there, too.\par \par El Capitan\par PO Box 577\par Yosemite National Park, CA 95389\par 209-372-0200
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Shaded by lodgepole pines at an elevation of 8,000 feet, this high country site features a lodge and campground accessible via a spur road north of Tioga Road. A park trail passes through, allowing you to hike even deeper into the high country, or toward civilization in Yosemite Valley, depending on which way you go. Fishing is available at White Wolf. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 White Wolf Lodge offers a choice of cabins with private baths, or tent cabins with shared facilities.
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\par White Wolf Campground offers 87 sites (no hookups) that can accommodate tents and small RVs. There are flush toilets and drinking water on site, as well as picnic tables and fire grates. Sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, and cost $10 per night.\par \par White Wolf\par PO Box 577\par Yosemite National Park, CA 95389\par 209-372-0200\par 209-372-1316
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Located beside Yosemite Creek at the end of a five-mile spur off of Tioga Road, this high country campground is open from July through September. You can fish in the creek, or follow the trail that runs beside it south to the brink of Yosemite Falls. Large RVs and trailers should not attempt the access road to this campground. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 This 75-site campground provides no hookups, and can accommodate only tents and small RVs. Pit toilets are provided, but drinking water must be taken from the stream and boiled before use. Each site has a picnic table and fire grate, and costs $6 per night.\par \par Yosemite Creek Campground\par PO Box 577\par Yosemite National Park, CA 95389\par 209-372-0200
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 This high country campground is located 16 miles west of Tuolomne Meadows on Tioga Road, and provides an economical, if rustic, camping spot near the geographic center of the park. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 Porcupine Flat Campground offers 52 tent and RV sites (no hookups) on a first-come, first-served basis between early July and late October. This is a no-frills place, with pit toilets and stream water (boil before use) as amenities. Campsites include picnic tables and fire grates, and cost $6 per night.\par \par Porcupine Flat Campground\par PO Box 577\par Yosemite National Park, CA 95389\par 209-372-0200
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Located just inside the park's Big Oak Flat (CA 120) entrance, Hodgdon Meadow Campground lies at about the same elevation as Yosemite Valley (4,872 feet), but doesn't share its bustling crowds. It is close to the Merced and Tuolumne Groves of Giant Sequoia. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 This campground offers 105 tent and RV campsites (no hookups) year-round. Flush toilets, drinking water, and picnic facilities are available. Reservations are required from May through October, and should be made by calling DESTINET at 800-436-7275; sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis the remainder of the year. A daily camping fee of $12 is charged.\par \par Hodgdon Meadow Campground\par PO Box 577\par Yosemite National Park, CA 95389\par 209-372-0200\par 800-436-7275
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Although not as spectacular as the Mariposa Grove of Big Trees to the south, the Merced and Tuolumne Groves, both located off the Big Oak Flat Road near the park's Big Oak Flat entrance on CA 120, offer visitors a chance to see the Giant Sequoia in relative solitude. The Merced Grove is the park's smallest grove of big trees, and contains a stand of about 20 trees between 14 and 28 feet in diameter. A stand of 25 large trees makes up the Tuolumne Grove. The most famous, the Dead Giant, boasts a diameter of 31 feet, even though all its bark was burned off in a fire. Both these groves lie close to the Crane Flat Campground, which, in turn, is just west of the turnoff for Tioga Road to the high country and Tuolumne Meadows. Big Oak Flat Road continues into Yosemite Valley. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 This campground offers 166 tent and RV sites (no hookups) from June to October. Flush toilets, drinking water, and picnic facilities are located on site; reservations are required and should be made in advance by calling DESTINET (formerly MISTIX) at 800-436-7275. Sites are $12 per night. Crane Flat Campground is 17 miles west of Yosemite Valley.\par \par Crane Flat Campground\par PO Box 577\par Yosemite National Park, CA 95389\par 209-372-0200\par 800-436-7275
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Tamarack Flat is a rustic campground located along Tamarack Creek at the end of a three-mile spur off Tioga Road. Although the campground can accommodate both tents and RVs, the spur road is not suitable for large vehicles, so motorhome owners should consider another site. The campground itself lies amidst lodgepole pines and red firs, and features access to a trail that leads far into the high country or down into the valley, via the Yosemite Falls Trail, depending on which way you hike. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 Tamarack Flat offers 52 sites (no hookups) on a first-come, first-served basis between early July and late September. Each site has a fire grate and picnic table; pit toilets are located on site. Stream water must be boiled before drinking. Sites cost $6 per night. A three-mile access road is unpaved and narrow, making this campground unsuitable for large RVs and trailers.\par \par Tamarack Flat Campground\par PO Box 577\par Yosemite National Park, CA 95389\par 209-372-0200
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Located on Glacier Point Road between Glacier Point and Badger Pass Ski Area, this campground is over 7,000 feet above sea level. Due to the elevation and the lodgepole pines that shade it, the area can be cool in September. In addition to close proximity to the valley and gorgeous valley views from Glacier Point, this site provides anglers a chance to cast their lines for some of Bridalveil Creek's trout. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 Bridalveil Creek Campground offers 110 sites accommodating both tents and RVs (no hookups). Amenities include modern toilets, drinking water, and fire grates at each site. Campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, and cost $10 per night.\par \par Bridalveil Creek Campground\par PO Box 577\par Yosemite National Park, CA 95389\par 209-372-0200
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Located close to the park's South Entrance, Wawona boasts the park's first lodge (1879), the Pioneer Yosemite History Center, a nine-hole golf course, riding stables with horse rentals, and a 100-site campground. The Pioneer Yosemite History Center is a collection of the park's first buildings, which have been relocated here from their original park locations. In summer, costumed docents offer living history demonstrations and recount stories about Yosemite's early days. Wawona is close to the Mariposa Grove of Big Trees; in summer, rangers suggest you leave your car here and take one of the free shuttles to the grove to avoid traffic jams and parking problems. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 The historic Wawona Hotel has been completely restored and exudes Victorian-era charm. This National Historic Landmark offers 104 rooms with either private or shared baths, and is open daily from Easter weekend through Thanksgiving, then again through the Christmas holidays. It is open on weekends the rest of the year.
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\par Wawona Campground offers 100 sites (no hookups) for both tents and RVs on the shore of the Merced River. You can swim here, but be warned--the water is chilly, even at the height of summer. Flush toilets, drinking water, and picnic facilities are available, as well as a dump station. Sites cost $10 per night and may be reserved by calling DESTINET at 800-436-7275.\par \par Wawona\par PO Box 577\par Yosemite National Park, CA 95389\par 209-372-0200
Mono Lake is all that's left of the ancient inland sea that once covered the Mono Basin. Fed by snowmelt and streams that bring a constant flow of minerals from the Sierra Nevada, Mono Lake has no outlet. Instead, the fresh water evaporates, leaving the lake one of the most alkaline, saline bodies of water on earth. In recent years, with the city of Los Angeles appropriating most of the eastern Sierra's watershed, the lake's level has dropped, revealing its strangest feature: tufa towers, a fantastic jumble of white limestone spires, crags, and knobs, which were formed as fresh springs in the lake's floor seeped calcium into the alkaline water. In response, the state water board passed a decision to raise and maintain water level of the lake to protect many environmental features.
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\par Begin your visit at the new visitors center, which is open daily through the summer. View a 20-minute film called "Of Ice and Fire." There are daily guided tours and self-guided nature trails. Most visitors to Mono Lake hike the short nature trails that lead to the tufa towers.
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\par As the major nesting ground for the California gull, and home to at least 80 additional avian species, the lake is also a bird-watcher's dream. From April to July, the islands and nearby waters are closed to the public, to protect nesting birds.
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\par Swimming in the buoyant salt water is a unique and enjoyable experience. Due to the heavy mineral content, there are no fish in Mono Lake, but boating is allowed. Stay close to the shore to avoid dangerous and unpredictable winds. Camping is not permitted, but hiking and picnicking are both popular pastimes. And don't forget your camera: the tufa towers photograph beautifully. \par \par Mono Lake Tufa State Reserve\par PO Box 99\par Lee Vining, CA 93541\par 760-647-6331\par 760-647-6331
Located on 1.3 million acres of the western slopes of the Sierra Nevada in central California, the Sierra National Forest serves a wealth of both practical and recreational purposes. Created in 1905 from the Sierra Forest Reserve, the forest is an important source of wood, minerals, and water for the state of California and the nation. This was prime gold rush country in the mid-19th century, and the forest still contains four active gold mines. You can pan for gold yourself in the creeks around Mariposa, as long as you don't infringe on any existing claims.
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\par As far as its millions of yearly visitors are concerned, recreation is the true treasure of Sierra National Forest. Its 1,100+ miles of hiking and horse trails offer routes for every level of ability and experience, from short nature trails to challenging, mountainous backcountry routes through any of the five wilderness areas that make up 43 percent of the forest. A wilderness visitor permit, obtainable from the U.S. Forest Service, is required to hike into Ansel Adams, Dinkey Lakes, John Muir, Kaiser, and Monarch Wildernesses; certain areas imposing summer visitation quotas require advance reservations. Contact the Forest Supervisor in Clovis for more details.
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\par The most-visited portion of the forest is the corridor along Hwy 41, where you can pursue a range of activities, including fishing, swimming, waterskiing, white-water rafting, hiking, off-highway vehicle travel, mountain biking, and golf. In addition, you can take your pick of accommodations, from primitive camping to full-service resorts, and everything in between, including more than 60 family campgrounds located throughout the forest. In winter, many people come to the forest to cross-country ski on the trails, or just to play in the snow. Motorists can visit a Giant Sequoia grove and take in some of the most dramatic views in the western Sierra along the Sierra Vista Scenic Byway, which traverses 100 miles of the forest; 76 miles of this road are paved.
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\par Whether you're out to explore the California gold country, on your way to Yosemite National Park, or just bent on a relaxing visit to the mountains, you'll enjoy what Sierra National Forest has to offer.\par \par Sierra National Forest\par 1600 Tollhouse Rd\par Clovis, CA 93611\par 209-297-0706\par 209-294-4809
The Inyo National Forest extends for 165 miles along the California/Nevada border, embracing almost two million acres of land along the eastern slopes of the Sierra Nevada and including the Great Basin Mountains. The forest offers spectacular mountains, streams and lakes abundant with fish, high desert, and lush canyons. It is an explorer's paradise. The forest includes world-renowned Mono Lake with its mysterious tufa towers, unparalleled bird-watching, and fascinating visitor center; the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest, home of the oldest living things on Earth; and Mt. Whitney, the highest peak in the lower 48 states. Hot Creek steams and sometimes erupts with geysers in Mammoth Lakes, while visitors to the Mono Lake can mosey through the ghost town of Bennettville, once full of the promise of silver, which went bust before it even had the chance to boom.
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\par The Inyo National Forest offers a wide range of recreational experiences, including hiking, mountain biking, fishing, swimming, and downhill and cross-country skiing. The forest contains all or part of seven wilderness areas: Boundary Peaks, Hoover, Golden Trout, South Sierra, John Muir, Ansel Adams, and Inyo Mountains. Backpackers and day hikers can gain access to them through over 700 miles of trails. In winter, downhill skiers can find some of the best alpine runs in the Sierra at Mammoth and June Mountain Ski Areas, while in summer, thrill-seeking mountain bikers turn the slopes at Mammoth into challenging downhill paths and slaloms. For more traditional mountain biking, there are many off-road trails throughout the forest. Cross-country skiers also have a wide range of options, from groomed trails provided either by the Forest Service or at Tamarack and Sierra Meadows (fee-based areas run by concessionaires in the Mammoth area), to marked trails, to wide-open spaces and forested tracts where they can make their own way through the snow.
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\par Campers will find a number of developed campgrounds; over 2,200 individual and 32 group campsites are available within the forest boundaries. In addition, many resort facilities operate under special permit from the U.S. Forest Service, affording additional accommodation to the seven million visitors who come to Inyo National Forest each year to sightsee, play, or commune with nature.\par \par Inyo National Forest\par 873 N Main St\par Bishop, CA 93514\par 760-873-2400\par 760-873-2458
These 74,000 acres of mountainous terrain are covered with evergreen forests and dotted with miles of streams and lakes. Visitors come for camping, hiking, fishing, and hunting for big game such as deer and elk. In winter they can cross-country ski and snowmobile. The park has 158 undeveloped campsites.\par \par Colorado State Forest\par 2746 County Road 41\par Walden, CO 80480\par 970-723-8366\par 800-678-2267\par 970-723-8661
This Northern Colorado expanse of mountains and foothills was originally part of the Medicine Bow Forest Reserve, established in 1897. The forest was renamed "Colorado National Forest" in 1910, and received its current moniker in 1932 in honor of President Theodore Roosevelt, a rugged outdoorsman who was largely responsible for the establishment of the modern National Forest System.
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\par Roosevelt National Forest is administered jointly with Arapaho National Forest and Pawnee National Grassland, and includes a variety of Rocky Mountain terrain, including alpine meadows and lakes, rocky crags, glaciers, high tundra, and steep canyons. Together, Roosevelt and Arapaho National Forests cover 1.3 million acres and surround Rocky Mountain National Park. Their proximity to the national park and to nearby communities makes them among the nation's most-visited National Forest Service sites. Motorists enjoy the scenic drives, while more active types explore forest trails on foot, horseback, or, in winter, cross-country skis. Fishing and hunting are popular activities, and many visitors take advantage of the number of campgrounds located throughout both forests. Call 970-498-2770 for campground locations.
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\par If you seek a challenging vacation to Roosevelt National Forest, sign up with a local outfitter for a white-water rafting trip down the Cache La Poudre River, Colorado's only National Wild and Scenic River. Or, if you seek solitude, or want to watch wildlife in unspoiled habitat, visit one of the five wilderness areas connected with Roosevelt National Forest: Cache La Poudre, Comanche, Neota, Rawah, and Indian Peaks. To lessen negative impact on the wilderness environment, small group size is encouraged. No more than 12 people or stock animals combined are allowed.\par \par Roosevelt National Forest\par 1311 S College\par Visitor Information\par Fort Collins, CO 80524\par 970-498-1375\par 970-498-2770\par 970-498-2726
Established in 1905 as "Park Range Forest Reserve," this forest of over 1.3 million acres is now known as Routt National Forest, in memory of Col. John N. Routt, who served as both Colorado's last territorial and its first state governor. Within the forest boundary, the lofty peaks of the Mount Zirkel Wilderness form the Continental Divide, forming two major watersheds: the North Platte River to the north, which eventually finds its way to the Atlantic Ocean through the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers and the Gulf of Mexico, and the Yampa River, which flows to the Pacific through the Green and Colorado Rivers.
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\par The valley cut by the Yampa River is one of the most scenic areas in Northern Colorado. The river passes through downtown Steamboat Springs, and is a favorite destination of inner tubers and kayakers, as well as anglers. Melting snowpack makes the river fast and furious (and dangerous) in the spring, river riders should take proper precautions.
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\par Motorists enjoy the scenic drive over Rabbit Ear Pass (U.S. Hwy 40), named for stone pinnacles (the "ears") that were landmarks for Indians, fur trappers, and settlers, and serve the same purpose today. Many campgrounds are located along the highway and at a variety of sites throughout the forest. Nearby Steamboat Lake and Stagecoach State Parks also provide many recreational and camping opportunities. Elevations within the forest boundaries range from 7,000 feet in the valleys to over 13,000 feet at the Continental Divide; winter snows are deep and frost is not uncommon, even in summer. Campers should prepare for quick changes in weather and temperature.
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\par For more solitude, or a more rugged outdoor experience, visit one of the wilderness areas connected with Routt National Forest. In addition to the Mt. Zirkel Wilderness, you can explore Beyers Peak, Neota, Flat Tops, Ptarmigan, Rawah, Sarvis Creek, and the Never Summer Mountains Wilderness. These are within a short driving distance.
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\par Rocky Mountain National Park is a two-and-a-half hour drive east of Steamboat Springs.\par \par Routt National Forest\par 57 10th Street\par P.O. Box 771212\par Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest Combination\par Steamboat Springs, CO 80477\par 970-879-1870\par 970-870-2147
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 When Thomas Jefferson authorized the Louisiana Purchase in 1803, few United States citizens realized the Rocky Mountains existed. Now over three million people visit Rocky Mountain National Park annually, and its peaks symbolize the American West for many others. With a rugged terrain soaring over 14,000 feet, it's hard to believe this land once lay underwater, the floor of a shallow sea. The process of mountain-building began 530 million years ago and continues today. Tectonic forces crumpled the earth's crust, slowly forcing wrinkles of rock upward. Once exposed to the elements, erosion began. The mountains we see today are being carved beneath the knives of wind, water, and glaciers.
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\par Long before Native Americans and French fur trappers moved into the mountains, countless species of birds, plants, and mammals found homes within the three distinct ecosystems characterizing the park. At lower elevations, pine and fir forests of the Montane ecosystem cover the slopes and shelter coyote, deer, and squirrels. Above 9,000 feet, fir and Englemann spruce dominate the subalpine landscape. At 11,500 feet, alpine tundra takes over. Fully one-third of the park features this extremely fragile ecosystem of meadows covered with lichens and wildflowers no bigger than the end of a finger.
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\par In 1859, Joel Estes and his son Milton were the first U.S. citizens to settle the area. They built a cabin in what became Estes Park. By 1909, naturalist Enos Mills recognized that the area's resources were worth preserving from further human encroachment. He began the campaign to set aside the region as a national park. In 1915, President Woodrow Wilson created the park, which now encompasses almost 416 square miles and features 40 miles of the Continental Divide.
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\par Even though only one-eighth the size of Yellowstone, Rocky Mountain National Park hosts almost as many visitors per year. Beckoned by the scenic drives and miles of trails set amongst spectacular peaks, people of all ages come to the park to enjoy exploring the west's natural wonders. \b
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\par What to see and do.\plain\f0\fs20 If you have only one day to spare, a drive along the 50-mile Trail Ridge Road (closed during winter) will introduce you to most major features of the park. Trail Ridge Road is America's highest continuous paved road. Start your day at either Estes Park on the eastern side or Grand Lake on the western side. Close to both towns you'll find visitor centers where you can watch introductory films and pick up important park information. Winding your way upward through the park's three ecosystems, you'll have plenty of chances to stop at picnic areas or scenic overlooks such as Farview Curve. When you reach the 11-mile stretch of road snaking through the park's famous tundra landscape, be sure to stop at Rock Cut or Forest Canyon Overlook. With the Rockies in full view, you can take a short walk on paths through the tundra, home to plant life otherwise not found outside the Arctic. Close to the road's highest elevation of 12,183 feet, the Alpine Visitor Center offers exhibits on tundra ecology as well as a welcome snack bar. Expect to spend the entire day driving slowly, stopping at waysides, and absorbing the grandeur surrounding you. Other scenic drives include the Old Fall River Road, which is one way, uphill, and Bear Lake Road.
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\par Most nature enthusiasts insist that the best way to appreciate the park's resources is by hiking or horseback riding along the park's 355 miles of trails. Fully 80 percent of the trails are open to horses, and several liveries, both within and outside the park, will help you saddle up. If you bring your bike, you must stay on paved roads. Day hikers enjoy several levels of difficulty, from more demanding routes to an 8.4-mile moderate loop through Glacier Gorge. Ranger-led hikes are treasure troves of information. If you have more time, five campgrounds and myriad backcountry sites encourage overnight stays from one night to a week. If you prefer more rugged scenery, hike the eastern side of the park, which is famous for its craggy views. On the west side of the Continental Divide, a gentler, greener landscape greets your eye. Many small lakes and streams boast game fish populations, so bring your fishing gear. In order to better manage this resource, the park has a catch-and-release program. Anglers should get a list of closed, catch-and-release, and open waters. A Colorado fishing license, available at sporting goods stores in Estes Park and Grand Lake, is required. No matter how long you spend outside, keep your eyes open for the wildlife. Bighorn sheep, elk, coyote, mule deer, and smaller mammals are only some of the species you may see.
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\par Even though many park roads are closed during the winter season, the park remains a favorite destination for skiers and snowshoers. Most hiking trails become ski trails when covered with snow. Check with the park for easier trails, located mostly on the western side. On the rugged eastern side, you'll have plenty of opportunity for ski touring and mountaineering.
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\par No matter what time of year you visit, several private outfits offer guided tours through the park. You'll find lodging year-round in the surrounding communities of Estes Park and Grand Lake. Pick up equipment, gas, and food supplies in these towns' many shops on your way to the park. At the visitor centers and campgrounds, participate in many ranger-led programs designed to enrich your experience of the park. Rocky Mountain National Park is bordered by the Roosevelt and Arapaho National Forests, a state forest, and two wilderness areas.\par \par Rocky Mountain National Park\par Estes Park, CO 80517\par 970-586-1206\par 970-586-1256
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 About a mile down the Bear Lake Road, visitors find the Moraine Park area, which includes the Moraine Park Museum and Campground. Located on the east side of the road, the museum is open from May until mid-October. Acquaint yourself with the area's geology by looking through exhibits, and walking the one-quarter-mile nature trail. On the west side of the road, you find the Cub Lake Trailhead turnoff, which shortly brings you to the campground. Located on a ponderosa pine-covered bluff, the campground is close to a livery and several hiking trails. Ranger programs are offered in the evening. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 Moraine Park offers 156 tent and 91 RV sites. For dates between late May and Labor Day, make reservations up to three months in advance by calling Biospherics, Inc. at 1-800-365-2267. Summer stays are limited to seven nights. Sites are $14 per night until October 1, when the water is shut off and the fee is reduced to $10 per night. There are no showers and no hookups. Flush and pit toilets are available, along with a disposal station and fire grates. Firewood bundles are for sale.\par \par Moraine Park Campground\par Rocky Mountain National Park\par Estes Park, CO 80517\par 970-586-1206
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 At the Kawuneeche Visitor Center, located on the west side of the park and north of Grand Lake, visitors find a ranger station and important information about their stay in the park, such as hiking maps and seasonal road closings. Several exhibits introduce park history and wildlife. Exhibits are organized to help visitors plan their stay in the park either for a couple of hours, a day, or several days. Upon request, rangers will show a 22-minute film. Take advantage of ranger programs offered throughout the year, or see about signing up for a ranger-guided hiking tour. Several hiking trails begin at Kawuneeche, which is open year-round.\par \par Kawuneeche Visitor Center\par Rocky Mountain National Park\par Estes Park, CO 80517\par 970-627-3471
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Located high in the mountains at 11,796 feet, the Alpine Visitor Center is a welcome break in the middle of the Trail Ridge Road and at the end of the Old Fall River Road. Open only during summer, the center's collection of exhibits concentrates on tundra life. Learn about this unique ecology, including the geology, climate, and plant life, which characterizes the ecozone above 11,500 feet at Rocky Mountain National Park. Participate in ranger-led programs throughout the summer. A snack bar shores you up for the rest of your drive. For a closer look at alpine tundra, don't miss the Tundra Nature Trail, which you find just a few miles east of the visitor center on the Trail Ridge Road.\par \par Alpine Visitor Center\par Rocky Mountain National Park\par Estes Park, CO 80517\par 970-586-1206
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Located on the eastern edge of the park, 14,255-foot-high Longs Peak is a hub for outdoor adventure. Visitors find a ranger station at the campground, a major trailhead for hikes up to Longs Peak, and a tents-only campground. Due to its smaller size and distance from the heavily traveled Trail Ridge Road, Long Peak enjoys a reputation as a quieter, more isolated camping spot. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 Open year-round, Longs Peak offer 26 tent-only sites. There are no showers, but campers have access to drinking water, flush and pit toilets, and fire grates. Firewood is for sale. The first-come, first-served sites are $12 per night until mid to late September, when the water is shut off and the fee is reduced to $12 per night. During the summer season, when activity at here is at its peak, stays are limited to three nights. Parking is limited and the parking lot often fills by 6:30 AM from July through August.\par \par Longs Peak Campground\par Rocky Mountain National Park\par Estes Park, CO 80517\par 970-586-1206
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Bring your fishing gear to Timber Creek Campground, which lies on the Colorado River. Located about eight miles north of the Grand Lake Entrance, the grounds are just off the Trail Ridge Road. The Colorado River Trail runs by the grounds. A short hike south brings you to the Never Summer Ranch, where you can walk through the ruins of a 1920s dude ranch. To the west, you have views of the Never Summer Mountains, a string of peaks all over 12,000 feet. Campfire programs are offered in summertime. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 Open year-round, Timber Creek offers 30 tent and 70 RV sites on a first-come, first-served basis. Stays are limited to seven nights. Fees are $12 per night until October 1, when the water is shut off and the fee is reduced to $10 per night. There are no showers and no hookups, but campers have access to flush and pit toilets, a disposal station, and fire grates. Firewood bundles are for sale.\par \par Timber Creek Campground\par Rocky Mountain National Park\par Estes Park, CO 80517\par 970-586-1206
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Just after the Fall River Entrance station, visitors find the turnoff for the Aspenglen Campground. One of the park's smaller campgrounds, it offers several isolated walk-in sites, which makes it a good spot for campers who like to avoid crowds. Anglers enjoy fishing the Fall River, and hikers find trails close by. During summer, campfire programs are offered. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 Aspenglen offers 54 tent and RV sites between late May and late September. The first-come, first-served sites are $12 per night and fill up fast, so arrive early. Stays are limited to seven nights. There are no hookups, but campers find drinking water during summer, flush toilets, fire grates, and firewood for sale.\par \par Aspenglen Campground\par Rocky Mountain National Park\par Estes Park, CO 80517\par 970-586-1206
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 A few miles up the Bear Lake Road from Moraine Park, visitors find Glacier Basin. With views of the Continental Divide and three glaciers, this campground spreads out beneath a dense pine forest. Several hiking trails are close by. At the entrance to the campground is the parking lot for the Bear Lake Shuttle Bus. Campfire programs are offered during the summer, and anglers can try their luck in nearby Sprague Lake. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 Between Memorial Day and Labor Day, Glacier Basin offers 80 tent and 70 RV sites. Make reservations up to three months in advance by calling Biospherics, Inc. at 1-800-365-2267. Stays are limited to seven nights. Fees are $14 per night. For groups of 10-50 people, 14 sites are available by reservation. There are no showers or hookups, but campers have access to a disposal station, flush toilets, drinking water, fire grates, and firewood for sale.\par \par Glacier Basin Campground\par Rocky Mountain National Park\par Estes Park, CO 80517\par 970-586-1206
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 This headquarters and visitor center is located on the eastern edge of Rocky Mountain National Park, on Hwy 36 as it leaves Estes Park. It should be the first stop in the park, especially for first-time visitors. The center features a relief map and a 22-minute introductory film, which is shown several times a day. Participate in ranger programs or check the schedule of ranger-led hiking tours. Browse through books and pick up brochures containing information that will make your stay at the park a memorable experience. Ask rangers about possible road closings and current weather conditions. Open year-round, this center is on your way to major park attractions such as the Trail Ridge Road and Bear Lake Road.\par \par Visitor Center and Park Headquarters\par Rocky Mountain National Park\par Estes Park, CO 80517\par 970-586-1206
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 The visitor center is located on Hwy 7 along the eastern border of the park. If you head out to the Longs Peak area, stop here first. Open daily from June through August, this center offers exhibits and ranger programs that introduce you to the many recreational opportunities available in the southeast corner of the park. Pick up invaluable information about hiking and climbing Longs Peak, especially in the busy summer season. Rangers can advise you on alternative adventure possibilities should summertime congestion interfere with your plans.\par \par Lily Lake Visitor Center\par Rocky Mountain National Park\par Estes Park, CO 80517\par 970-586-1206
Arapaho National Forest, which is administered jointly with Roosevelt National Forest and Pawnee National Grasslands, spans the Continental Divide in the Rocky Mountains of Northern Colorado. Between them, Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests cover 1.3 million acres of mountains and foothills that surround Rocky Mountain National Park and encompass many different landscapes, including tundra, alpine meadows and lakes, canyons, and glacial terrain. Their proximity to the national park and to nearby large population centers makes these forests among the most visited in the nation.
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\par Activities include hiking, fishing, and hunting, as well as winter sports such as skiing and snowmobiling. Pleasure drives along scenic highways attract thousands of motorists each year. Many campgrounds are located throughout the forest lands, and wildlife is abundant, especially in the wilderness areas. Arapaho encompasses at least portions of six such areas: Never Summers Mountains, Beyers Peaks, Vasquez Peaks, Indian Peaks, Mount Evans, and Eagles Nest. Call 970-498-2770 for more information on the campgrounds and their locations.\par \par Arapaho National Forest\par 101 Chicago Creek\par P.O. Box 3307\par Clear Creek Ranger District\par Idaho Springs, CO 80452\par 303-567-2901\par 800-796-3048\par 303-567-3021
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Beginning at a junction with Hwy 36, the 10-mile-long Bear Lake Road provides access to the Moraine Park and Glacier Basin areas as it winds its way up to the high mountain basin Bear Lake. Bikers are welcome on this paved road, which with a few weather-related exceptions is open year-round. The picturesque drive past several small lakes is very popular during the summer. Between 10 AM and 3 PM, visitors may wish to park in the Glacier Basin parking lot and take the free shuttle bus instead of fighting traffic just to find the Bear Lake parking lot full. The shuttle is in operation from June through August only.
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\par Before you get to Bear Lake, you'll notice the turnoff to Sprague Lake. Abner Sprague, a pioneer and resort owner, built his own fishing pond, in which you too may try your luck. The level, handicapped-accessible Five Senses Nature Trail circles the lake. You also find picnic tables, restrooms, and a livery at the trailhead. Not far from this spot is the only handicapped-accessible backcountry campsite in the park.
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\par Back on Bear Lake Road, you pass the Bierstadt Lake trailhead before you finally reach your destination. Once at Bear Lake, take advantage of the half-mile nature trail, which explains glaciation and subalpine life with the help of a self-guiding pamphlet. Several hiking trails begin here, and a short walk brings you to the Glacier Gorge trailhead. A typical Rocky Mountain day-hiking experience, this 9.4-mile round trip trail takes you over boardwalks spanning marshy Glacier Creek, past Alberta Falls, up a narrow canyon, and through stands of dwarf fir until you reach Black Lake.\par \par Bear Lake\par Rocky Mountain National Park\par Estes Park, CO 80517\par 970-586-1206
Five campgrounds and five lakes are in the area. Fishing, hiking, boating facilities, and guides are available, as are several boat ramps. The Indian Peaks Wilderness Area is open for overnight camping by permit only. There's mountain biking, horseback riding, and picnicking. Handicapped-accessible fishing grounds are available. These facilities are usually open from Memorial Day to Labor Day. These dates are subject to the weather; snow and frost often come early and leave late at this elevation. TDD: 970-887-4101.\par \par Arapaho National Recreation Area\par 62429 US Hwy 40\par PO Box 10\par Granby, CO 80446\par 970-887-4100\par 970-275-5350\par 970-887-4102
Tiny Estes Park, eastern gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, is packed with recreational opportunities; a wide range of hotels, bed and breakfasts, and campgrounds; and a variety of restaurants and cafes featuring just about any type of cuisine you might crave. The national park is the main attraction, with hundreds of miles of hiking trails, lofty peaks, and scenic mountain drives, but Estes Park offers plenty of things to see and do, as well.
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\par You can ride an aerial tram to the top of 8,800-foot Prospect Mountain for panoramic views of Estes Park Valley and the peaks of Rocky Mountain National Park, or you can wander the streets of the town and take in the many museums, gardens, art galleries, shops, and, of course, the spectacular Rocky Mountain scenery that surrounds the community.
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\par Tourists flock here in summer, and the town holds a series of concerts, horse shows, parades, and special exhibits to enhance their visits. But Estes Park is a wonderful winter destination as well. The crowds are gone, the mountains wear a thick mantle of snow that beckons cross-country skiers and snowshoe hikers, and, since Estes Park is located in a valley, the temperature in town is surprisingly mild (January temperatures range between an average high of 47 and a low of 7 degrees Fahrenheit). If you visit in September, schedule your trip to coincide with the popular Longs Peak Scottish Fair and enjoy the Celtic music, games, and revelry.
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\par Summer activities include hiking, climbing, fishing, horseback riding, swimming, boating, river rafting, and golf. Outfitters offer white-water rafting trips, as well as horse rentals and pack trips; in winter, ski and snowshoe rentals are also available.
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\par The Chamber of Commerce Visitor Information Center is located at 500 Big Thompson Avenue; call 970-586-4431 or 800-44-ESTES (800-443-7837) for more detailed information.\par \par Estes Park\par PO Box 3050\par Estes Park, CO 80517\par 970-586-4431\par 800-443-7837\par 970-586-6336
The Targhee National Forest covers 1.8 million acres of southeastern Idaho and western Wyoming adjacent to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. Its many rivers and streams provide a variety of summer activities. Anglers will want to cast their lines into Henry's Fork of the Snake River, a blue-ribbon fly-fishing stream, while visitors to Palisades and Island Park reservoirs can enjoy boating, fishing, and hunting. For rafting, canoeing, or kayaking enthusiasts, the Snake River near Swan Valley, Heise, and Henry's Fork provides a challenge, but there are many hazards along the way (falls, dams, irrigation canals); check stream conditions with a ranger before you set out. Many bald eagles are spotted in this area, as well. For a tamer experience, try Big Springs Recreation Water Trail near Island Park, ID, where you can paddle down a clear, placid stream or fish in the company of moose and trumpeter swans.
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\par On your way east to Yellowstone on Hwy 20, be sure to include a side trip to beautiful Upper Mesa Falls, 200 feet wide and 100 feet high, and Lower Mesa Falls, with a total drop of 76 feet in two tiers of rushing water. St. Anthony Sand Dunes, 35 miles long and 5 miles wide, are also accessible from Hwy 20, west of St. Anthony.
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\par In winter, you'll find 450 miles of groomed trails for snowmobiles and cross-country skiing in the Island Park, Ashton, and Idaho Falls areas as well as fine powder for downhill skiing at Kelly Canyon near Idaho Falls or the Grand Targhee Resort near Driggs, ID.
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\par Targhee National Forest also includes two wilderness areas: Jedediah Smith, abutting the slopes of the Tetons and Grand Teton National Park, and Winegar Hole, adjacent to Yellowstone Park -- both are in grizzly bear habitat. Backcountry camping is permitted, but campers should be prepared for camping in grizzly bear country, and should leave no trace of their campsites.
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\par Opportunities for summer motorized use and car camping are plentiful on over 2,000 miles of open trails and roads. Most of the Forest is closed to summer motorized cross-country travel to protect abundant wildlife and other important resources such as soil and water. Wildflowers bloom from May in the lower elevations to August in the highest elevations.\par \par Targhee National Forest\par 420 N Bridge St\par PO Box 208\par St. Anthony, ID 83445\par 208-624-3151
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Time and the flow of underground rivers have carved the world's longest surveyed cave under the rolling limestone hills of south central Kentucky. Mammoth Cave has figured in human history since prehistoric man mined it for minerals over 4,000 years ago. Local lore credits a hunter named Houchins with "discovering" it when he chased a wounded bear into the gaping Historic Entrance in 1797. During the War of 1812, Mammoth Cave was a source of saltpeter, necessary to the manufacture of gunpowder, and the remains of this mining operation may be seen on several cave tours today.
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\par After the war was over, tourism was more lucrative than mining, and the Croghan family, who owned the property, built a hotel near the Historic Entrance. The famous cave guide, Stephen Bishop, led exciting tours through the cave. Bishop was a slave, owned by the Croghans, and he relished exploring far into Mammoth's depths. He opened many new passageways to 19th-century sightseers. In the winter of 1842, Dr. John Croghan, a pulmonary specialist, built "habitations" in the Acute Angle section of Mammoth to house sixteen of his tuberculosis patients. The experiment was not successful, and was abandoned several months later. Two of the cottages that served as Croghan's sanitarium are now a part of the Violet City Tour.
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\par There were scores of other caverns within a few miles of Mammoth Cave and, with the upswing in tourism brought about by the advent of the automobile, cave visitation rose. Touts for rival caves waylaid motorists on their way to Mammoth, trying to steer them in the direction of their own subterranean treasures. Entrepreneurs found new entrances to Mammoth, entrances that were closer to the main road and the tourists. Frozen Niagara, Violet City, and New Entrances were all discovered during this "Kentucky Cave War" era. In 1941, the State of Kentucky and the Mammoth Cave National Park Association acquired Mammoth Cave and neighboring cave land and donated it to the National Park Service to establish the park. Explorers began probing these outlying caves, searching for a connection with Mammoth. In the late 1970s, a major link was made, and Mammoth Cave, with over 345 miles of passages now mapped, officially became the longest cave in the world.
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\par Above ground, Mammoth Cave National Park is a scenic joy. It is a haven for birds and other wildlife, and is home to Big Woods, a large stand of old-growth forest. The Green and Nolin Rivers are open to boating and fishing, and over 70 miles of hiking and horseback riding trails wind through the park. Mammoth Cave National Park has been designated both a World Heritage Site and an International Biosphere Reserve by the United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). \b
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\par What to see and do. \plain\f0\fs20 Cave tours, which are available year-round, originate at the visitor center near the Historic Entrance of Mammoth Cave, and range from the quarter-mile, relatively easy, well-lit Travertine Tour to the extremely difficult Wild Cave Tour that worms its way for over six hours through undeveloped passages, low crawlways, and tight squeezes. Take the popular Historic Tour, or see the cave by lantern-light on the Violet City Tour. There is even a tour specifically for children. No matter what tour you choose, be sure to wear sturdy, comfortable walking shoes and bring a jacket or sweater. Mammoth Cave's temperature remains a steady 54 degrees Fahrenheit with 86% humidity year-round. Reservations are strongly suggested for all tours and can be made in advance of your visit by calling 1-800-967-2283.
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\par There's plenty to see and do above ground, too. Hike or ride on horseback along one of the many trails at Mammoth Cave National Park. There are three campgrounds in the park, and many backcountry camping sites are also available. Canoe down the leisurely Green or Nolin Rivers. Fishing is permitted within the park without a state license, although certain restrictions and limits apply. Wildlife abounds, and it is not unusual to see deer feeding very close to the roads. Hop aboard the Miss Green River II for a short cruise; tickets and tour schedules are available at the visitor center.
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\par The park and visitor center are open year-round, with the exception of Christmas Day. Hotel accommodations and food service are available on site. There are many other campgrounds, motels, and restaurants in communities adjacent to Mammoth Cave National Park. Contact park authorities at (502) 286-8167 for information on canoe, boat, and horseback riding concessions located nearby.\par \par Mammoth Cave National Park\par I 60 Exit 53\par Mammoth Cave, KY 42259\par 502-758-2328\par 800-967-2283\par ___-___-____
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Just as early tourists found hospitality and a wealth of amenities close by the Historic Entrance to Mammoth, modern visitors will find the area a center for park activities and information, as well. Located near the entrance, the visitor center serves as park headquarters, and offers films, slide presentations, and ranger-led activities. The ticket booths for cave tours are located here, and buses for tours that begin at other caves or entrances leave from here also.
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\par In addition to the visitor center, which is open year-round, facilities near the Historic Entrance include the Mammoth Cave Hotel and restaurant, Headquarters Campground and store, gift and craft shops, hiking and biking trails, a ferry, and a boat launch. A gas station and post office are located at the campground store. Most operate on a seasonal basis; contact the park for more information.
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\par You can choose from among a wide assortment of tours reflecting the differing interests and capabilities of park visitors. In addition to the popular Historic Tour, there are short, easy tours such as the Travertine or Discovery tours, and arduous, exciting tours that take you off-trail and through tight squeezes and crawlways to off-trail areas of the cave. There is a tour expressly for children, tours that address environmental and geological concerns and interests, and some that recreate early lantern-lit tours. The park can provide a list, schedule, and pricing information for available tours. They recommend advanced reservations year-round. Call 800-967-2283 for cave tour reservations.
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\par There's plenty to see above ground, too. The wheelchair-accessible Heritage Trail originates near the hotel and includes an overlook with views west across the Green River and a visit to the Old Guides Cemetery. Enhance your walk by borrowing a cassette guide from the visitor center. Other trails in the vicinity include the Green River Bluffs Trail, the Dixon Cave Trail, the River Styx Spring Trail, the Echo River Spring Trail, and the Mammoth Dome Sink Trail. A bike path extends from the campground to the Violet City/Carmichael entrances.
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\par Other activities include boat rides on the Green River, where you can either launch your own canoe from the dock or take an excursion on the Miss Green River II (purchase tickets at the visitor center), and evening programs in the amphitheater and the campfire circle. If you've wondered how so many early tourists traveled to the cave, take a look at the Hercules Train, located between the visitor center and the campground. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 The Headquarters Campground offers 111 sites (no hookups) on a first-come, first-served basis. Restrooms are provided, and a coin laundry and hot showers are located at the camp store and service center seasonally. There is a dump station, and a boat ramp and fishing facilities are nearby. The campground is open from March 1 to December 1, and charges a fee of between $10 and $12 per night.
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\par The Mammoth Cave Hotel is open year-round and offers a variety of accommodations, from standard hotel and motor lodge rooms to rustic cabins. Cabins are available from spring through autumn. Please call National Park Concessions, 502-758-2225, for rates and availability. The hotel restaurant offers reasonably priced breakfasts, lunches, and dinners, and is also open throughout the year. Gas is available year-round at the service center near the hotel.\par \par Historic Entrance\par Mammoth Cave National Park\par Mammoth Cave, KY 42259\par 502-758-2328\par 800-967-2283\par 502-758-2349
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Located north of the Green River with good access to the park's many trails, Maple Springs Group Campground is also the only park campground that accommodates horses. Amenities at Maple Springs include potable water, grills, picnic tables, and chemical toilets. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 Maple Springs Group Campground offers seven tents-only sites to groups of up to 25 people at a cost of $15 per night. Sites may be reserved in advance by calling 502-758-2251, ext. 39.\par \par Maple Springs Group Campground\par Mammoth Cave National Park\par Mammoth Cave, KY 42259\par 502-758-2251\par 502-758-2328
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Once a commercial cave and competitor with Mammoth, Great Onyx Cave is now part of the national park. In summer, you can tour this highly decorated cave. The previous owners were careful to preserve its delicate helictites, twisting in seemingly gravity-defying fashion, and soda straws, thin stalactite tubes. The gypsum and flowstone at Great Onyx are particularly beautiful. Today, groups of up to 40 people view the cave by lantern-light on a moderately strenuous, one-mile tour. The trip takes a little over two hours and involves climbing steps and a steep hill; transportation is provided to the cave entrance. This tour is offered seasonally; call the park for schedule information. Call 800-967-2283 for information on reservations, which are highly recommended. Cave tours leave from the visitor center at the Historic Entrance.\par \par Great Onyx Cave\par Mammoth Cave National Park\par Mammoth Cave, KY 42259\par 502-758-2328\par 800-967-2283
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 By the mid-1920s, the cave wars were raging around Mammoth Cave. Many local caves were competing for tourists' dollars, and cave-happy explorers were busy trying to find more. Specifically, they were looking for yet another entrance to Mammoth Cave, closer to the main road. This was what led Floyd Collins, renowned local caver and owner of Crystal Cave (now the property of the national park and closed to the public), to attempt a lone foray into Sand Cave in January of 1925. Collins was experienced and fearless, but foolhardy. Sand Cave was tight and unstable; a rock fell from the ceiling and pinned his leg, trapping him in a way that prevented attempts to pull him out. He died before rescuers could free him, but not before the entire area around Sand Cave became a huge carnival of curious tourists, would-be rescue parties, food concessionaires, and souvenir-touting fortune-seekers.
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\par Today, Sand Cave has fallen back into obscurity. It now lies just within the national park boundary. If you take a short hike from the parking area just off the East Entrance Road, you can see the cave for yourself. A plaque at the site explains the event and serves as a memorial for a brave, yet careless, caver.
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\par Just outside the eastern park boundary, along the same road, is an interesting, privately owned museum dedicated to Floyd Collins and documenting his fatal accident with a number of historical and geological exhibits.\par \par Sand Cave\par Mammoth Cave National Park\par Mammoth Cave, KY 42259\par 502-758-2328
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 For a backcountry look at the flora and fauna on the surface of Mammoth Cave National Park, drive the Joppa Ridge Motor Nature Trail. This dirt and gravel one-way road extends for two miles from Green River Ferry Road south to the West Entrance Road. Although you won't stray far from the busy area surrounding the Historic Entrance, you'll feel secluded traveling along the ridges and valley woodlands of the park. Driving along Joppa Ridge will give you a good idea of the successional forests of south central Kentucky, and the surface appearance of the karst landscape that harbors caves beneath. You're likely to spot white-tailed deer, raccoons, rabbits, and squirrels--you may even see a fox. Wild turkey were reintroduced to the park in the early 1980s; visitors often catch a glimpse of them. In fact, over 200 bird species have been identified in the park. Drive along Joppa Ridge in the spring and you'll be greeted with a display of hundreds of wildflowers.
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\par Stop by the visitor center before you begin your drive to purchase a trail guide ($1) and check on road conditions. While the road is open year-round, maintenance or winter storms may close it temporarily. Sorry, but trailers and motorhomes are not permitted on Joppa Ridge Motor Nature Trail.\par \par Joppa Ridge Motor Nature Trail\par Mammoth Cave National Park\par Mammoth Cave, KY 42259\par 502-758-2328
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Houchins Ferry Campground is located beside the Green River in the western portion of the park. The Houchins Ferry is only steps away from the campground, with a boat ramp available to the public. This is a good base for fishing and floating trips. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 Houchins Ferry Campground offers 12 tent campsites on a first-come, first-served basis year-round. A fee of $5 per night is charged, and sites have picnic tables and grills. Chemical toilets and potable water are available at the site.\par \par Houchins Ferry Campground\par Mammoth Cave National Park\par Mammoth Cave, KY 42259\par 502-758-2328
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Carved by glaciers and pounded by ocean waves, Acadia National Park's rugged seashore and hilly interior offer a wide range of activities. Over three million people per year take advantage of the park's 41,000 acres, making it one of the most popular national parks. Swooping ospreys, bobbing boats, and silent stands of trees welcome visitors to this group of islands and peninsulas located a little over halfway up the Maine coastline.
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\par When the glaciers retreated, they scoured mountains, fjords, and lakes out of an ancient granite ridge. Mussels and crabs found homes in the tidal pools, while many colorful species of ducks paddled on porpoise playgrounds. Wabanaki Indians made their homes on the Maine coast, where the French explorer Samuel de Champlain found them in 1604. Until the United States claimed possession of these islands in the late 18th century, they were a bone of contention between France and Britain. In the late 19th century, East Coast society families shared the islands' resources with local fishermen and boat builders. In order to preserve their quiet retreat away from the hubbub of city life, many summer residents purchased land and donated it to the Park Service. It became a national park in 1919, but land was acquired long after that.
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\par Today visitors enjoy not only the magnificent coastline but also the unspoiled, forested interior of Mount Desert Island and Isle au Haut. Hiking trails thread the trees and skirt the shore, while John D. Rockefeller, Jr.'s carriage roads through Mount Desert Island welcome walkers, bikers, and horseback riders. Cadillac Mountain, the highest peak on the eastern seaboard, rises over an island home to thriving villages coexisting with outdoor preserves. \b
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\par What to see and do. \plain\f0\fs20 Your visit to Acadia could be divided into two parts: a day on the main island, then days spent on excursions to outlying islands and peninsulas. Split roughly in half by Somes Sound, Mount Desert Island has two "lobes." If you have only a day for Acadia, focus your time on the eastern lobe. When crossing the causeway from the mainland, stop at the Thompson Island Information Center. You'll receive good directions to the Hulls Cove Visitor Center (open from mid-April to October 31), where a film, exhibits, and rangers introduce you to the park. Consider making a tour around the Park Loop Road. Along its 20 miles, you'll have plenty of opportunity to sample the island's riches. Bird-watchers will want to spend time at Sieur de Monts Spring and along the coast, especially at Otter Point. After following the coastline, the road turns inland through tranquil forest, eventually bringing you to Jordan Pond House. A bite to eat and a constitutional along the nature trail will leave you ready for the second half of the road, which includes a spur up to the summit of Cadillac Mountain. At 1,530 feet the park's highest point, Cadillac is a splendid place from which to witness a rising or setting sun.
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\par In order to best appreciate Acadia's quiet interior spaces, most visitors take advantage of 120 miles of hiking trails and 45 miles of carriage roads. Hikes are relatively brief but range from strenuous to easygoing. The carriage roads are unique to Acadia. Wildwood Stables offer several horseback and carriage rides per day along the carefully planned roadways. Don't miss the granite bridges built especially for these roadways. Bikers are welcome to ride carriage roads within the park, though mountain bikes are recommended for all but two roads. Biking is prohibited on hiking trails.
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\par Naturalists can enjoy this park in many ways. You'll find self-guided nature trails at the Jordan Pond House, at the Carroll Homestead in Southwest Harbor, and at Ship Harbor, located on the far southern tip of the western lobe. Canoeing and kayaking are increasingly popular ways to see Acadia's wildlife. Because these watercraft are quieter than powerboats, animals and birds don't take fright so easily, and you can better observe them in their natural habitats. On the boat rides to Baker Island and to Islesford Historical Museum, located on Little Cranberry Island, rangers lead programs focusing on the natural and cultural history of the bay. During your explorations of Acadia's hallmark seashore, pay close attention to the tidal pools, where myriad small creatures such as sea urchins make their temporary homes.
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\par Summer may be the high season at Acadia, but wintertime offers delights, too. Roads are closed to cars, but snowmobilers may cruise through at will. Snowshoers and cross-country skiers may wind their way along the carriage roads and hiking trails. Maine is close to the ocean, though, so don't expect a lot of snow. Winter hiking is very popular, and Blackwoods Campground remains open throughout the year. All pets must be on a leash.
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\par If you can spend more than a day, lodging is easy to find. Mount Desert Island itself hosts tiny Bar Harbor as well as smaller communities, all offering private accommodations. Two campgrounds within the park, Blackwoods and Seawall, invite overnight stays. Because Acadia is a short drive from many towns along the Maine coast, gas and supplies are easy to come by. Boat, bike, and ski rentals are widely available.\par \par Acadia National Park\par PO Box 177\par Bar Harbor, ME 04609\par 207-288-3338\par 207-288-5507
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 This stable offers visitors a chance to ride on the famous carriage roads designed by John D. Rockefeller, Jr. By the turn of the century, Mt. Desert Island had become a favorite summering destination for wealthy East Coast families. Rockefeller wished to preserve the quiet, pastoral retreat character of the island, which was increasingly disturbed by motor traffic. He envisioned and financed 57 miles of auto-free carriage roads winding through the eastern lobe. Along with the roads, he commissioned 16 unique, hand-built granite bridges. Scenic overlooks and waysides complete the road system dedicated to the general public's enjoyment of a unique natural resource. \par \par At Wildwood Stables, different carriage tours are available beginning in mid-June. From a one-hour ride circling Day Mountain to an afternoon excursion culminating in the famous Jordan Pond House tea tradition of popovers and ice cream, visitors find a trip suited to their stay at Acadia. Carriages may be chartered (two-hour minimum). You may also stable your own horse for the day or night. Overnight stall renters have access to a campground. No horse rentals are available. Open between Memorial Day weekend and mid-October, the stable requires prepaid reservations.\par \par Wildwood Stables\par PO Box 241\par Seal Harbor, ME 04675\par 207-276-3622\par 606-356-7139
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Located on the southern tip of Jordan Pond, the Jordan Pond House is an Acadia tradition. First built in the 1870s, the original house burned in the late 1970s. Now rebuilt along modern lines, the house offers lunches and dinners during the summer, and is especially known for its afternoon tea. Visitors enjoy a light meal of popovers, strawberry jam, and homemade ice cream. The house is open between mid-May and mid-October. Reservations are advised, and can be made by calling 207-276-3316.
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\par After a leisurely meal, visitors may take a constitutional around the one-mile Jordan Pond Nature Trail. For 45 minutes you walk along the shore and through nearby fields and woods. Longer hikes such as the Jordan Pond Shore Path begin at the Jordan Pond Trailhead, where there is also a boat launch. This area is accessible via the Park Loop Road and carriage roads.\par \par Jordan Pond House\par PO Box 24\par Acadia Corporation\par Bar Harbor, ME 04609\par 207-288-5592
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Visitors to the summit of Cadillac Mountain can watch the sunrise from 1,530 feet, the highest point on the eastern seaboard of the United States. To reach the top, turn off the Park Loop Road onto a 3.5-mile road. After winding through the switchbacks, visitors find a gift shop, several interpretive plaques, and unforgettable views of the inlets, islands, and hills of the Maine coastline. During the summer, rangers lead a one-hour program called "At the Summit" that interprets the natural and cultural history of the area. Hike parts of the Summit Trail before you drive back down. Several longer and more strenuous hikes, such as the Cadillac Mountain South Ridge Trail, end here. If you arrive late in the day, stay for the sunset. Be advised that traffic on the summit road can be heavy between 10 AM and 2 PM during the busy summer season.\par \par Cadillac Mountain\par PO Box 177\par Acadia National Park\par Bar Harbor, ME 04609\par 207-288-3338
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Three miles after you begin the one-way section of the Park Loop Road, you see the entrance to the Sieur de Monts Spring area. Located north of The Tarn, a small lake, the area attracts many species of birds, especially during the migratory seasons. Take advantage of two self-guided nature trails. \par \par Adjacent to the spring is the Nature Center, which is open daily from 9am until 5pm June through September. Inside you find natural history exhibits explaining how Acadia's ecosystem has developed, especially since the Fire of 1947, the "Year that Maine Burned." Fully 17,000 acres were devastated by a fire that burned for three weeks. Today's fall foliage is a lasting reminder of the fire: the former evergreen forest burned away, making room for deciduous trees such as aspen and birch that turn brilliant colors in autumn. \par \par Step outside the Nature Center into the Wild Gardens of Acadia. Arranged by habitat, this one-acre outdoor exhibit introduces you to the different kinds of plants found in Acadia. Walk through a typical roadside or seaside setting with an interpretive brochure. \par \par Visitors interested in American Indians should see the Robert Abbe Museum. Privately owned, the Abbe features exhibits of Indian antiquities, focusing on the tribes that live in Maine. This Museum is open daily between May and October. Call ahead for exact hours: 207-288-3519.\par \par Sieur de Monts Spring\par PO Box 177\par Acadia National Park\par Bar Harbor, ME 04609\par 207-288-3338
ct hours: 207-288-3519.\par \par Sieur de Monts Spring\par PO Box 177\par Acadia National Park\par Bar Harbor, ME 04609\par 207-288-3338
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Visitors touring Acadia from mid-April to October 31 should make the Hulls Cove Visitor Center their first stop. Open daily, the center offers plenty of information, schedules of ranger programs and boat cruises throughout the park, and a 15-minute orientation video. During the winter season, when this visitor center is closed, information may be obtained at park headquarters, located inside the park on Rte 233.
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\par Hulls Cove is also the entrance to the Park Loop Road. One-way for over half of its 27 miles, this loop directs visitors to the highlights of Mt. Desert Island's eastern lobe. Be sure to take advantage of overlooks and short hiking trails punctuating the drive. Visitors especially enjoy seacoast attractions such as Sand Beach, Thunder Hole, and Otter Point. One of very few sand beaches on the predominantly rocky Maine coast, Sand Beach is patrolled by a lifeguard, but the water is awfully cold, and you may enjoy swimming in Echo Lake more. At the proper conjunction of time and tide, Thunder Hole roars with air compressed by water into a tight space. At Otter Point, you find yourself in a prime bird-watching spot. Between these three sites winds a moderately challenging hiking trail. Further along, the road passes the Jordan Pond House and the turnoff for the Cadillac Mountain road. Even though the road is only 27 miles long, visitors can expect to stop frequently to hike, picnic, and explore. One loop can easily take an entire day.\par \par Hulls Cove and Park Loop Road\par PO Box 177\par Acadia National Park\par Bar Harbor, ME 04609\par 207-288-3338
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Located on the eastern lobe, Blackwoods lies in a heavily wooded area, from which a footpath leads to the ocean close by. At the ranger station, you can check the schedules of ranger-led activities such as campfire programs, which take place in the campground amphitheater. The trailhead for the Cadillac Mountain South Ridge Trail begins here. This 7.4-mile (round-trip) strenuous hike climbs to the summit of Cadillac Mountain. \b \par \par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 Blackwoods offers 220 tent sites, 50 RV sites, 30 sites for vans and pop-ups, and 5 handicapped-accessible sites. There are no hookups, but campers have access to comfort stations, cold running water, a dump station, picnic tables, and fire rings. From approximately mid-December to mid-April, facilities are limited to fire rings, pit toilets, picnic tables, and hand-pumped drinking water. Showers (in summertime) and a supply store are located within a half mile of the campground. Biospherics handles reservations four to five months in advance for sites desired between May 1 and October 31. Call 800-365-2267. Fees are $18 per night during the reservation period and $10 per night April and November. They are free of charge in winter, when the restrooms close. Five group sites are available by writing park headquarters. For campers receiving mail, the address is: [Camper's Name], Blackwoods Campground, General Delivery, Bar Harbor, ME, 04609.\par \par Blackwoods Campground\par PO Box 177\par Acadia National Park\par Bar Harbor, ME 04609\par 207-288-3338
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Seawall is located on the western lobe, close by the seashore on Rte 102A. Visitors find a ranger station at the campground, and an oceanfront picnic area across the road. Rangers offer one-hour programs in the campground amphitheater. A short way down the road, you may walk the Ship Harbor Nature Trail, which emphasizes the habitats created by the sea meeting the shore. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 Seawall offers 104 walk-in tent sites, 65 drive-up tent sites, 45 RV sites, and one handicapped-accessible site between Memorial Day and September 30. There are no hookups, but campers have access to comfort stations, cold running water, a dump station, picnic tables, and fire rings. Within a half mile of the grounds you find showers and a supply store. Walk-in sites cost $10 and drive-in sites are $14. From late July through August, campers should arrive early in the day to claim a spot in the line waiting for the first-come, first-served campsites. The ranger station opens at 8:30 AM. Five group sites are available by writing park headquarters. For campers receiving mail, the address is: [Camper's Name], Seawall Campground, General Delivery, Southwest Harbor, ME, 04679.\par \par Seawall Campground\par PO Box 177\par Acadia National Park\par Bar Harbor, ME 04609\par 207-288-3338
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 For visitors who prefer solitude, Isle au Haut is worth the trip. It's located down the coast from Mt. Desert Island, and is reachable only by boat. Give yourself about two hours to drive to the tip of Deer Isle, from which you board the mail boat. A 45-minute trip brings you to Town Landing. There you find a ranger station where you can pick up a map of the 18 miles of trails crisscrossing the island and running along the shore. In midsummer, pick berries as you wander past the blueberry brambles. Keep an eye open for eagles or osprey tracking their prey. \b \par \par Camping and other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 During summertime, the mail boat stops at Duck Harbor Landing, where you find a small, primitive campsite offering five lean-tos. Facilities are limited to picnic tables, fire rings, hand-pumped drinking water, and a chemical toilet. Call 207-288-3338 for a reservation request form; request may not be postmarked earlier than April 1. Phone reservations not accepted.\par \par Isle au Haut\par PO Box 177\par Acadia National Park\par Bar Harbor, ME 04609\par 207-288-3338
ox 177\par Acadia National Park\par Bar Harbor, ME 04609\par 207-288-3338
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Boat cruises to these two islands off the southern tip of Mt. Desert Island combine historic and naturalist dimensions. Pick up cruise schedules at the visitor center. \par \par At Northeast Harbor you can also catch the mail boat to Little Cranberry Island, where you find the Islesford Historical Museum. Another option is the Park Service-guided "Islesford Historical Cruise," a 2.75-hour excursion that introduces you to marine life and the history of the harbor. Open during late June through September, the small museum highlights the history of human interaction with the seashore. The island itself is not a part of the park. Fees are charged for both cruises, but the museum is free.\par \par Baker Island and Islesford Historical Museum\par PO Box 177\par Acadia National Park\par Bar Harbor, ME 04609\par 207-288-3338
ere you find the Islesford Historical Museum. Another option is the Park Service-guided "Islesford Historical Cruise," a 2.75-hour excursion that introduces you to marine life and the history of the harbor. Open during June, July, and August, the small museum highlights the history of human interaction with the seashore. The island itself is not a part of the park. Fees are charged for both cruises, but the museum is free.\par \par Baker Island and Islesford Historical Museum\par PO Box 177\par Acadia National Park\par Bar Harbor, ME 04609\par 207-288-3338
Saltwater swimming, magnificent stands of trees, sweeping landscapes, and refreshing summer weather have made Bar Harbor the focal point of a celebrated resort area. Visitors enjoy the Historical Society, Natural History, and Wendel Gilley Birdcarving museums; the Oceanarium; whale-watching; the ferry to Nova Scotia; and nearby Jackson Laboratory.\par \par Bar Harbor\par Bar Harbor, ME
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Isle Royale National Park is a lush, green island surrounded by the cold and sometimes unforgiving waters of Lake Superior, and its remote wilderness is untouched by cars, roads, or a lot of modern conveniences. Visitors come to the island to get away from the din of city traffic and the frenetic pace of modern life. The park receives fewer people in one year than Yosemite does in a day, but don't let this statistic fool you. During the peak season, backpacking trails can be crowded because visitors stay longer at Isle Royale than they usually do at Yosemite. The park is difficult to get to, demanding at least a day's travel time, so you should expect to stay a few days to get your effort's worth.
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\par The 8.5-mile-wide, 45-mile-long island is home to hardwood and evergreen forests, wetlands, numerous inland lakes, fox, moose, and timber wolves. Although wolf sightings are very rare, soulful howls can sometimes be heard late at night and are an unforgettable experience for campers. The wolves and moose have been the subject of a 35-year ecological study; researchers have found that Isle Royale's self-contained ecosystem is a perfect place for scientific study. It was set aside as an International Biosphere Reserve under the Man and Biosphere program in 1980, and 99 percent of its land area is designated wilderness. \b
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\par What to see and do.\plain\f0\fs20 If backcountry solitude and natural, rugged beauty appeal to you, this is the ideal place for hiking, backpacking, and camping. Located off of Michigan's Upper Peninsula, the island is accessible by boat or floatplane, and the two entrance points are at Rock Harbor, at the northeast end, and Windigo, on the southwest end. Rock Harbor is the larger of the two and slightly more developed with a restaurant, lodge, supply store, showers, and laundry facilities. There is no lodging available in Windigo, but a small store sells provisions and camp supplies. Canoe and outboard rentals are available at both locations.
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\par Day trips to the island are possible, but a two- to four-day backpacking trip is the best way to appreciate this remote wilderness. Hikers find 165 miles of trails crisscrossing the island, and individual and group campsites are available along the trails. All camping on Isle Royale is backcountry. No RVs are allowed on the island. Another way to get around the island is via the Grand Portage ferry, which makes several stops. Ask about the schedule at a visitor center. Leeches make swimming in the inland lakes unpleasant, and Lake Superior is generally much too cold.
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\par You can also experience Isle Royale from the water, either in a sailboat anchored offshore or by canoeing or kayaking along narrow inlets. If scuba diving is your interest, you might want to explore any one of ten sunken ships.
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\par Note: According to the National Park Service, Lake Superior can create an unstable, unpredictable climate, and rough weather might delay transportation to and from the island. Be sure to allow extra time before and after your trip.\par \par Isle Royale National Park\par 800 East Lakeshore Drive\par Houghton, MI 49931\par 906-482-0984\par ___-___-____\par 906-482-8753
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Located along the Mount Ojibway Trail on the shore of Rock Harbor, this campsite offers easy access to the Greenstone Ridge Trail, which leads over 40 miles of terrain from Windigo to Rock Harbor. Along the way, you'll pass Sugar Mountain, Mount Desor, and Mount Siskiwit. While staying at Daisy Farm, consider hiking up the 1.7-mile, steeply inclined trail to a scenic overlook on Mount Ojibway. The views of Isle Royale are worth the effort.
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\par Daisy Farm is so named because the original CCC camp site briefly sported pockets of daisies as the forest reclaimed the land. It's a busy campground, bustling with activity that sometimes surprises backpackers emerging from a few days' trek in the relative solitude of Isle Royale's backcountry. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 The campground offers six tent sites, 16 screened-in shelters, and group sites on a first-come, first-served basis. No amenities beyond an outhouse are available. Water taxis can drop you off at the dock, or you can boat in yourself. Stays are limited to three nights.\par \par Daisy Farm Campground\par 800 East Lakeshore Drive\par Isle Royale National Park\par Houghton, MI 49931\par 906-482-0984\par 906-482-8753
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Isle Royale offers 165 miles of wilderness trails, and it can take anywhere from four to six days to traverse the island. You'll find many of the park's 36 backcountry campsites along your chosen route. Off-trail hiking is strongly discouraged due to thick undergrowth, swamps, and bogs. Combination trips (boating or flying one way, hiking the other), can be arranged with local transportation companies.
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\par The Greenstone Ridge Trail runs 40 miles through maple, birch, spruce, and fir forests, along the open ridge between Mounts Ojibway and Franklin, and ends at Lookout Louise. Feldtmann Lake Loop is a 30-mile-long trail, along which you may see moose and possibly wolf tracks. Much of the trail can be wet and muddy, especially around marshlands.
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\par The Minong Ridge Trail tends to be more physically demanding than the others and, like all the park's trails, may be re-routed to avoid disturbing nesting eagles. Views of the island's north shore cliffs and Ontario's Sleeping Giant in the distance are well worth the hike. You may also see bald eagles, beavers, and wolf sign.
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\par The route to Rock Harbor is the most popular trail on Isle Royale, but watch your step around the rock cairns. This 13-mile trail offers access to the old Siskiwit Copper Mine, which dates to the 1850s. Indian Portage Trail travels over the island's three main ridges and offers breathtaking northern and southern views. Huginnin Cove Loop is a ten-mile trail for all fitness levels that begins in Windigo and leads over Minong Ridge.\par \par Wilderness Trails at Isle Royale\par 800 East Lakeshore Drive\par Isle Royale National Park\par Houghton, MI 49931\par 906-482-0984\par 906-482-8753
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 At the Rock Harbor Lodge, sign up for the half-day guided boat tour that takes you to several spots inaccessible on foot. Two highlights include the Edisen Fishery and Rock Harbor Lighthouse. Pete Edisen (d. 1983) ran this last commercial fishery on Isle Royale. Today the National Park Service maintains his interesting cabins, which feature oddities such as a wrecked passenger ship's door salvaged for his own use. A guide lives here during the summer to operate the fishery and conduct tours.
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\par A short trail brings you to the Rock Harbor Lighthouse. Built in 1855, it's the oldest on the island. In the small museum, you can look through exhibits about the lighthouse. There are several other lighthouses in the area, but only Rock Harbor is open to the public.
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\par Construction started on the Rock of Ages lighthouse in 1907. A second-order Fresnel lens was lit in 1910 to warn ships off dangerous reefs. Automated in 1978, the lens was replaced in 1985 with a tiny airport-type beacon running on solar power.
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\par Passage Island Lighthouse, built in 1882, is located off the northeastern point of the island. Its Norman Gothic design includes a 44-foot octagonal tower. Your tour guide can offer more information about these tireless guardians.\par \par Edisen Fishery and Rock Harbor Lighthouse\par 800 East Lakeshore Drive\par Isle Royale National Park\par Houghton, MI 49931\par 906-482-0984\par 906-482-8753
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Ten ships that were wrecked off of Isle Royale's shores are available for exploration by scuba divers. Your first glimpse of one such wreck is from the ferry as it enters Washington Harbor. You'll get an eerie view of a steamer bow just two feet below the water's surface. Its location is indicated by a buoy. The roster of wrecked ships includes the \i America, Henry Chisholm, George M. Cox, Emperor, Chester Congdon, Monarch, Algoma, Glenlyon, Cumberland\plain\f0\fs20 , and the \i Kamloops\plain\f0\fs20 .
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\par There is no fee charged for diving, but you must register at a ranger station. Because there are no facilities where you can fill up air tanks on your own, consider signing up with an organized charter.\par \par Shipwrecks at Isle Royale\par 800 East Lakeshore Drive\par Isle Royale National Park\par Houghton, MI 49931\par 906-482-0984\par 906-482-8753
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 The ferries from Copper Harbor and Houghton disembark here at Rock Harbor, which features the island's largest concentration of visitor facilities. Make your first stop the visitor center. If you plan on camping on the island, obtain your backcountry permit and pick up trail maps and other useful information. Watch the video that introduces the park's history and natural resources, then check the schedule of evening activities, which include slide programs and demonstrations.
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\par Venture out on the four-mile Stoll Trail to observe a cross-section of the typical ecologies found on the island. The park service offers several guided boat tours. At the Rock Harbor Lodge, you may sign up for a guided tour aboard the\i Sandy. \plain\f0\fs20 This tour takes you to highlights such as the Edisen Fishery (see the Edisen Fishery Hotspot).
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\par You may rent boats at Rock Harbor, from 14-foot aluminum boats with motors to 15- and 17-foot canoes. No motorized boats are allowed on inland lakes. Several Lake Superior shoreline campgrounds have docks and are more easily accessible from the water. Boats under 20 feet are advised not to venture out into Lake Superior because the weather can quickly and dangerously change for the worse. The Rock Harbor Lodge has a marina offering diesel fuel, gasoline, oil, and a pumping station. Limited groceries are available at the store. The docks accommodate larger cruising craft for visitors who cross the lake on their own boats. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 One of Isle Royale's primitive campgrounds is located here, and it offers 11 tent sites and nine shelters on a first-come, first-served basis. Stays are limited to one night. Flush toilets are available. This campground is unusual for its access to treated water, showers, and a laundry.
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\par Obtain a list of facilities, including group tent sites, for each of the park's 36 campgrounds from a visitor center. A backcountry permit is free but required, and boaters may not register until they arrive on the island. All campgrounds on the island are primitive, offering very limited tent sites though some have three-sided shelters complete with screens (which are most welcome in bug season). Expect to filter your water with a 0.4 micron or smaller filter because prevalent tapeworm eggs cannot be killed with chemical treatments. Pack a self-contained stove, for some sites don't have fire rings and wood-gathering is generally discouraged. Groups may be no larger than seven to ten persons, and they may camp only at grounds with group tent sites. Many sites are accessible by canoe or boat as well as on foot.
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\par If water filters and mosquito mesh don't appeal to you, the Rock Harbor Lodge offers comfortable, basic accommodations. Its 60 rooms face Lake Superior, and there are 20 separate cottages. Rooms include meals in the dining room and cottages have housekeeping facilities.\par \par Rock Harbor\par 800 East Lakeshore Drive\par Isle Royale National Park\par Houghton, MI 49931\par 906-482-0984\par 906-482-8753
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Passengers on the Grand Portage ferry disembark here, where they find a visitor center and marina. At the visitor center, be sure to watch the introductory video, which explains the island's history and natural resources. You may obtain your backcountry permits here and get useful trail information from the rangers.
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\par For a quick overview of island nature, go on the ranger-led "Windigo Nature Walk," which runs several times a day. If you miss this one, there is a short self-guided nature trail close by. Don't miss the turn-off for the Moose Exclosure, a fenced-in area that shows how the landscape looks without moose eating away at it. Inside the Moose Exclosure, you find the Hare Exclosure, which shows how hares change the look of the vegetation.
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\par From Windigo, you can start out on the ten-mile Huginnin loop, which makes a good two-day hike out to the island's northern coast.
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\par Other facilities include a small grocery store and marina with boat rental. You may rent 14-foot aluminum boats with motors and 15- and 17-foot canoes. Motorized craft are prohibited on inland lakes, but they are convenient for accessing some Lake Superior shoreline campsites. Boats under 20 feet should not head out into the big lake because the weather can quickly worsen, causing dangerous conditions for small craft. The marina offers gasoline, oil, and a pumping station. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 The nearby Washington Creek Campground offers five tent sites and ten screened-in shelters. Amenities include showers and treated water, which you otherwise find only at Rock Harbor. See the Rock Harbor description for more general camping information.\par \par Windigo\par 800 East Lakeshore Drive\par Isle Royale National Park\par Houghton, MI 49931\par 906-482-0984\par 906-482-8753
The Bridger, Absoroka, Madison, Beartooth, Crazy, and Gallatin are six mountain ranges that make up the Gallatin National Forest. Within, there are about 2,000 miles of trail and 1,000 miles of road. The wilderness area (41% of the forest) includes 28 peaks over 12,000 feet including Granite Peak which stands at 12,799 feet, the highest point in Montana.
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\par Access to the forest is through Billings, Big Timber, Red Lodge, Livingston, or Cooke City. No permits are required for backcountry hiking and there are 25 cabins and 37 campgrounds for overnight visitors. The Gallatin National Forest takes its name form the mineral Hyalite, a translucent opal that is found along the ridges of the Gallatin Range. Hike, fish, camp, ski, or snowmobile at Gallatin. Bozeman, a nearby ski town, is 43 miles northeast of Gallatin National Forest. The Bridger Bowl ski area is partially on National Forest land.
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\par \par \par Gallatin National Forest\par 10 E Babcock\par PO Box 130\par Bozeman, MT 59771\par 406-657-6361\par 406-587-6701
The Lewis and Clark National Forest is made of two divisions situated in north-central Montana. The Rocky Mountain division is set along the eastern edge of the Rocky Mountains and is made up of rugged ridges and peaks. The Jefferson division is comprised of rolling hills and expansive plateaus. The forest offers a wide range of recreational opportunities.
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\par Lewis and Clark has 37 developed and primitive campsites situated in recreation areas throughout the two divisions. The forest also offers five cabins for lodging; call ahead to make reservations for these. Lewis and Clark offers great fishing and hiking, as well as climbing, mountain bike and horse riding, boating and hunting. You can also enjoy winter sports such as snowmobiling, and downhill and cross-country skiing.
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\par Nearby attractions include the adjacent Helena, Flathead, and Lolo National Forests as well as Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park.
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\par In early 1998, the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center will be opening in Great Falls, Montana.\par \par Lewis and Clark National Forest\par 1101 15th St N\par PO Box 869\par Great Falls, MT 59403\par 406-791-7700\par 406-761-1972
Stretching along northwest Montana, Flathead National Forest comprises over 2.3 million acres of mountains, lakes, and rivers. Flathead offers a wealth of recreational opportunities. Camping, hiking and backpacking are the biggest draws, set amid some of the most wondrous scenery Montana has to offer.
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\par The national forest offers 22 developed campgrounds with a total of 270 campsites. You can enjoy boating, swimming, and other water sports in the Hungry Horse Reservoir and the South and Middle Forks of the Flathead River. Over 2,000 miles of trails wind through the forest land and make for some great hiking and backpacking, as well as horseback riding. The mountain slopes should inspire any climbers visiting the forest; just make sure to register your travel plans at the Ranger District Office for your own safety--this goes for backcountry camping as well. Keep your eyes open; the national forest is home to a variety of wildlife such as grizzly bear, wolf, elk, and deer. Other recreation possibilities offered by Flathead include float trips, canoeing, fishing, hunting, or taking a scenic drive along Highway 83. In wintertime you can downhill and cross-country ski, snowmobile, and ice fish.
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\par Nearby attractions include the adjacent Kootenai, Lolo, and Lewis & Clark National Forests and Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park.\par \par Flathead National Forest\par 1935 Third Avenue East\par Kalispell, MT 59901\par 406-758-5200\par 406-758-5204\par 406-758-5363
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Lake McDonald is located on the western side of Glacier National Park. It is the park's largest lake, measuring ten miles in length and reaching depths of 472 feet. The Kutenai Indians called this massive, pristine body of water the "Sacred Dancing Lake."
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\par If you drive into Glacier through the West Entrance, along Going-to-the-Sun Road, Lake McDonald will be one of the first things you'll see. The road skirts the southeastern shore of the lake, providing excellent views of the lake's glacier-formed basin. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging.\plain\f0\fs20 Lake McDonald Lodge offers 100 rooms as well as a dining room, family-style restaurant, cocktail lounge, store, and gas station. Make reservations at least six months in advance if you plan to stay at this popular hostelry. For lodge information and reservations call Glacier Park, Inc., 602-207-6000.\par \par Lake McDonald\par West Glacier, MT 59936\par 602-207-6000
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Going-to-the-Sun Road has been called the world's most scenic highway. The 50-mile road begins near West Glacier on the west side of Glacier National Park, passes by Lake McDonald, and travels to Logan Pass, ending at St. Mary. Along the route, overlooks and trailheads provide access to spectacular scenery. For example, near where the road begins its ascent to Logan Pass a short trail leads to McDonald Falls, where some of the park's oldest rock is exposed.\par \par At Avalanche Creek, you can take a self-guided hike along the 0.4-mile Trail of the Cedars loop. Take some time to stroll through cedar and hemlock forest or hike along a four-mile round-trip trail past scenic waterfalls to Avalanche Lake. Other highlights include the Garden Wall, Hidden Lake, and St. Mary Lake.\par \par The road takes you into the heart of grizzly and black bear country, and rangers recommend stopping in at Apgar or St. Mary Visitor Center before the trip for advice on how to avoid bear encounters.\par \par Those in the know suggest making this drive in the late afternoon, when light-angles are best for sightseeing and photography, and after most of the mid-day traffic has subsided.\par \par During the winter, road access is severely limited. Contact Glacier National Park for up-to-date information on road conditions and closures.\par \par Going-to-the-Sun Road\par West Glacier, MT 59936\par 406-888-5441
and closures. \par \par Going-to-the-Sun Road\par West Glacier, MT 59936\par 406-888-5441
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Scenic Chief Mountain International Highway begins off US 89 north of Babb, Montana and extends north to the juction of Highways 5 and 6. To the west looms the lone silhouette of 9,066-foot Chief Mountain, a stunning peak and the easternmost portion of the Lewis Overthrust, a layer of 1.6-billion-year-old rock that earth movements have thrust over strata merely 100 million years of age.
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\par This 22-mile-long route offers panoramic views of Waterton Valley and takes you past glacier-carved basin lakes and trailheads, with ample access to hiking, rental boats, and fishing streams.
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\par Side roads accessible from Highway 5, such as Red Rock Canyon and Akamina Parkways, take you through miles of prairie and blooming wildflowers, providing spectacular views along the way.
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\par Waterton Townsite, population 100 (year-round), lies at the end of Highway 5. Take some time to browse in one of several gift shops or have a bite to eat in a local cafe. Be sure to visit the Prince of Wales Hotel. This historic hostelry overlooks Upper Waterton Lake and snow-capped peaks beyond.
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\par Chief Mountain International Highway, along with the border customs station, closes in autumn and reopens in late spring. Call either Glacier (406-888-5441) or Waterton Lakes (403-859-5109) National Parks to obtain the most accurate information on road conditions and closures.\par \par Chief Mountain International Highway\par West Glacier, MT 59936\par 406-888-5441\par 403-859-5109
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 If you enjoy hiking and wildlife watching, Many Glacier is an excellent place to see bighorn sheep, mountain goats, moose, black-tailed deer, and perhaps a wolf, bear, or coyote. The Swiftcurrent Lake Nature Trail is a three-mile trek around Swiftcurrent Lake that begins at the Many Glacier Hotel. The trail takes you through forests of spruce and pine. At Josephine Lake, you can explore old-growth forests; starting around July, when the trail becomes passable, a naturalist leads an 11-mile round-trip hike to Grinnell Glacier. Check the park naturalist schedules for departure times. \b \par \par Camping and Other Lodging.\plain\f0\fs20 Historic Many Glacier Hotel is widely thought to be the most scenic of the park's grand lodges. Built in 1915 by the Great Northern Railway to entice tourists to travel by train to the mountains, the hotel is now managed by Glacier Park, Inc., and offers over 200 rooms at elegant prices. A restaurant, snack bar, cocktail lounge, and gift shop are located on the premises, which is open only during the summer. \par \par Swiftcurrent Motor Inn is located at the end of Many Glacier Road and offers affordable motel rooms and cabins. Amenities include a restaurant, a camp store, and a coin laundry. It is also open only during summer months. \par \par For further information concerning dates of operation, rates, or room availability, contact Glacier Park, Inc. (406-892-2525). \par \par Many Glacier Campground offers over a hundred campsites. Please refer to the Many Glacier Campground article for more detailed information.\par \par Many Glacier Entrance\par West Glacier, MT 59936\par 406-888-5441\par 406-226-5551
06-226-5551
1\par 406-226-5551
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Apgar Village is located just beyond Glacier National Park's west entrance near Lake McDonald. Its proximity to the water makes it an ideal place to bring a canoe, rowboat, or powerboat. A number of guided hikes are also offered.
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\par From here you can take a scenic drive along Going-to-the-Sun Road, which leads into the heart of the park. Camas Road heads west to the Huckleberry Mountain nature trail and a lookout tower. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging.\plain\f0\fs20 Open between May and October, the campground has 196 sites for tents or RVs, 25 of which are suitable for vehicles up to 40 feet in length. Flush toilets and a disposal station are available on-site, and primitive camping is allowed here during the fall, winter, and spring. Campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Contact Glacier National Park for more information.
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\par The Village Inn Motel provides 36 units, 12 with kitchenette, on the shores of Lake McDonald. In addition to beautiful lake and mountain views, the Village Inn Motel has a swimming beach. It is open from early May until October. For more information, contact Glacier Park, Inc., 406-226-5551, or 602-207-6000.
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\par Apgar Village Lodge, an historic, early-20th-century hotel, offers 48 units (25 of them cabins) in a lovely wooded setting. It is open from April to October. For more information, call 406-888-5484 (in summer) or 406-888-5662 (in winter).\par \par Apgar Village\par West Glacier, MT 59936\par 406-888-5441
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Avalanche Campground is located off of Going-to-the-Sun Road near the Trail of the Cedars and a branch of Avalanche Creek. It is about four miles north of Lake McDonald in a cedar and hemlock forest. From here you can hike southeast to Avalanche Lake or west to Lake McDonald. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging.\plain\f0\fs20 The campground offers 87 sites for tents or RVs; 50 of the sites are equipped for vehicles up to 26 feet in length. Conveniences include a disposal station and flush toilets. For provisions, gas, and restaurants, drive six miles south to Lake McDonald Lodge. The campground is open between late June and early September and tends to fill very early in July and August. For updated information on fees and conditions, contact Glacier National Park headquarters.\par \par Avalanche Campground\par Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park\par West Glacier, MT 59936\par 406-888-5441
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Bowman Lake Campground is located in the northwest part of Glacier National Park and is only accessible via primitive dirt roads. While more than half the campsites can accommodate vehicles up to 22 feet in length, large RVs are not recommended. Hiking trails to Quartz Lake and a lookout along Numa Ridge originate near the campground. Bowman Lake's boat launch is located nearby, as well. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging.\plain\f0\fs20 Open between May and September, the campground offers 48 sites for tents or RVs. About 30 of the sites accommodate vehicles up to 22 feet. This campground does not have flush toilets or a disposal station. Depending on road conditions, primitive camping is allowed during the off-season. Call Glacier National Park headquarters for further information.\par \par Bowman Lake Campground\par West Glacier, MT 59936\par 406-888-5441
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Fish Creek Campground is located at the southwest edge of Lake McDonald, two miles east of Apgar. A hiking trail leads along the lake and splits off to the west to Howe Ridge. It's only a short drive to Going-to-the-Sun Road, which takes you into the heart of the park. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging.\plain\f0\fs20 The 180 campsites at Fish Creek accommodate both tents and RVs, and are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Eighty of the sites can accommodate vehicles up to 26 feet in length. Fish Creek is open from late June to early September and is equipped with flush toilets and a disposal station. Call Glacier National Park headquarters for additional information.\par \par Fish Creek Campground\par West Glacier, MT 59936\par 406-888-5441
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Kintla Lake Campground is located in the northwest corner of Glacier National Park near the Boundary Mountains. Accessible only over primitive dirt roads, this campground is not recommended for large RVs. Recreation opportunities include paddling a canoe or rowboat in Kintla Lake, or hiking trails on the lake's periphery.\b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging.\plain\f0\fs20 The campground offers 13 sites for tents or RVs up to 18 feet in length. All are available on a first-come, first-served basis. No flush toilets or disposal station are available, and primitive camping is allowed during the off-season, depending on road and weather conditions. Call Glacier National Park headquarters for current information.\par \par Kintla Lake Campground\par West Glacier, MT 59936\par 406-888-5441
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Named for the glaciers that grace the surrounding mountains, Many Glacier is a wonderful place to hike and view wildlife. Although nearby Lake Sherburne was not created by a glacier, but by a man-made dam, the glaciated valley in which it lies is quite beautiful. Swiftcurrent Lake, at the end of Many Glacier Road, brims with park services, from lodging and camping facilities, gift shops, and restaurants to trailheads for treks around the lake and into the backcountry. After the trail becomes passable (usually by mid-summer) the park's naturalist-led, 11-mile-round-trip trek to Grinnell Glacier is one of the park's most popular tours. For a more leisurely stroll, follow the Swiftcurrent Nature Tour. It follows the lakeshore in a 2.6-mile loop. \b \par \par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 Historic Many Glacier Hotel is widely thought to be the most scenic of the park's grand lodges. Built in 1915 by the Great Northern Railway to entice tourists to travel by train to the mountains, the hotel is now managed by Glacier Park, Inc., and offers over 200 rooms at elegant prices. A restaurant, snack bar, cocktail lounge, and gift shop are located on the premises. Many Glacier Hotel is open only during the summer season.\par \par Swiftcurrent Motor Inn is located at the end of Many Glacier Road and offers affordable motel rooms and cabins. Amenities include a restaurant, a camp store, and a coin laundry. It is also open only during the summer.\par \par For further information concerning dates of operation, rates, or room availability, contact Glacier Park, Inc. (406-892-2525). \par \par Many Glacier Campground offers 110 tent or RV sites; 13 of the sites accommodate vehicles up to 35 feet. Flush toilets and a disposal station are available; showers are at the motor inn (tokens required). Sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Open early June to mid-September; call 406-888-7800 for information.\par \par Many Glacier\par West Glacier, MT 59936\par 406-756-7128
ar 406-756-7128
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\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Rising Sun is located in the eastern portion of Glacier National Park beside St. Mary Lake near Going-to-the-Sun Road. A lodge, campground, and coffee shop are located here, as well as hiking trails that lead along Rose Creek, St. Mary Lake, and St. Mary Falls. Boat access to St. Mary Lake is also nearby. \b \par \par Camping and Other Lodging.\plain\f0\fs20 Rising Sun Motor Inn looks strictly utilitarian, but the views of St. Mary Lake are quite lovely. Its 72 units include both motel rooms and cabins, all moderately priced. A coffee shop and camp store are located on the premises. Accommodations are available from late spring to mid-fall. To make reservations or obtain additional information, contact Glacier Park, Inc. (406-892-2525). \par \par Open early June to mid-September, Rising Sun offers 83 tent or RV sites; 3 suitable for vehicles up to 30 feet. Conveniences include flush toilets and disposal station; showers at the Motor Inn (tokens required). Sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Contact Glacier National Park for complete camping regulations and information.\par \par Rising Sun\par West Glacier, MT 59936\par 406-888-5441
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\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 St. Mary Campground is located near the shores of St. Mary Lake on the eastern edge of Glacier National Park. Stop by the visitor center for trail guides and informative brochures that will help you navigate your way through the park's terrain, as well as figure out what facilities and recreational opportunities are available. Boat access to the lake is located near Rising Sun, six miles west.\b \plain\f0\fs20 \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging.\plain\f0\fs20 The campground offers 148 sites for tents or RVs on a first-come, first served basis. Ninety of these sites are suitable for vehicles up to 35 feet. Conveniences include flush toilets and a disposal station, and the town of St. Mary, just outside the park boundary, offers a camp store and restaurants. Primitive camping is available here off-season. Call Glacier National Park headquarters for additional information.\par \par St. Mary Campground\par West Glacier, MT 59936\par 406-888-5441
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Sprague Creek Campground is located on the shores of Lake McDonald near Going-to-the-Sun Road in the southwest section of Glacier National Park. Apgar Village lies eight miles to the south, but the closest amenities are located one mile north, at Lake McDonald Lodge. Hikers might want to try one of the trails that lead from the campground to Snyder Lake and the Sperry Glacier.\b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging.\plain\f0\fs20 Open between mid-May and late September, the campground offers 25 sites on a first-come, first-served basis. Towed units are prohibited. Conveniences include flush toilets. Contact Glacier National Park headquarters for additional information.\par \par Sprague Creek Campground\par West Glacier, MT 59936\par 406-888-5441
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Two Medicine Lake lies in the southeastern section of Glacier National Park and may be accessed from the east by Montana Highway 49. From here, hiking trails lead to numerous waterfalls and many more lakes. Amenities include picnic facilities, a snack bar, grocery and gift store, and a boat launch. There are interpretive programs, boat tours, and exhibits. A ranger station is also nearby. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging.\plain\f0\fs20 Two Medicine Campground offers 99 sites for tents or RVs, and 13 of the sites are suitable for vehicles up to 32 feet. All sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, and conveniences include flush toilets and a disposal station. Primitive camping is allowed during the off-season when road and weather conditions permit.
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\par For additional information, contact Glacier National Park headquarters.\par \par Two Medicine\par West Glacier, MT 59936\par 406-888-7800
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Straddling the international border between Montana, U.S.A. and Alberta, Canada, Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park protects some of the most stunning mountain scenery in western North America. Throughout the ice ages, the monumental movement of glaciers carved sharp peaks out of the Continental Divide and gouged deep valleys where hundreds of lakes now glisten. Though not of ice-age origin, today over thirty glaciers grace this stretch of the Rocky Mountains. A haven for a wide variety of flora and fauna, Waterton-Glacier boasts more than 1,000 plant species, over 260 species of birds, and at least 60 native mammal species. White mountain goats are often seen within the parks, and hikers also may catch glimpses of coyotes, marmots, moose, bighorn sheep, and grizzly bears.
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\par Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park was established in 1932. The first park of its kind, Waterton-Glacier is a cooperative effort of the U.S. National Park Service and Parks Canada. Although the two nations work together in certain areas, such as wildlife management and coordination of some visitor services, Waterton-Glacier is actually two parks, administered separately by each respective government. Waterton Lakes National Park was established by Canada in 1895, while Glacier National Park was designated a United States National Park in 1910.
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\par To contact Glacier National Park, write Glacier National park, West Glacier, MT 59936. To contact Waterton Lakes National Park, write Waterton Park, AB, T0K 2M0, call 403-859-2224 or 403-859-5109, or FAX 403-859-2650.\b
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\par What to see and do.\plain\f0\fs20 Park highways, such as Going-to-the-Sun Road, Chief Mountain International Highway, Akamina Parkway, and Red Rock Parkway bring motorists into the heart of the mountains, but keep in mind that these are rugged roads and not super-highways. Vehicles that exceed 21 feet in length (including bumpers) and 8 feet in width (including mirrors) are not permitted to drive the steepest parts of the Going-to-the-Sun Road; Glacier Park, Inc., a concessionaire, provides guided tours to those unable (or unwilling) to negotiate this narrow, winding highway. Other undeveloped roads lead farther into the backcountry.
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\par If you have time and stamina, the best way to experience the beauty, scale, and power of the mountains is to hike them. There are more than 700 miles of trails available to park visitors, ranging from short, relatively easy nature paths to long, difficult mountain treks. Both parks offer a variety of ranger- or interpreter-led hikes and presentations to enhance your understanding and enjoyment.
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\par Both parks experience their heaviest visitation during the summer, and an extensive schedule of interpretive programs is in place for the months of June through September. Campgrounds, which operate on a first-come, first-served basis, often fill to capacity before noon in the high summer, so be sure to get there early!
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\par Many of the glacier-fed lakes within the park are open to swimming and boating. The average temperature for park lakes is 50 degrees Fahrenheit year-round. Canoes and rowboats are allowed on many of the larger lakes, while motorboats are restricted to Upper and Middle Waterton Lake, St. Mary Lake, Bowman Lake, Lake McDonald, Two Medicine Lake, and Sherburne Lake. Waterton Lake, Cameron Lake, and Crandell Lake are among the many lakes and streams where trout abound. Several outfitters offer rafting trips along the pristine drainage of the Flathead River; consult the parks for more detailed information. Horseback riding and bicycling are popular summer pastimes, and tennis courts and an 18-hole golf course are located at Waterton, Alberta.
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\par Although summer is the most popular season at Waterton-Glacier, a number of visitors opt to experience the parks in the off-season, when crowds decrease. Each season brings an ever-changing panorama to the mountains, from the profusion of spring and autumn wildflowers to the beautiful cloak of winter snow. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are popular park activities in winter. Both parks are open year-round, although park services are limited in the off-season. Snow closes many park roads and trails from October through mid-May, with some remaining snowbound through June and beyond. Winter visitors will find plenty of services in nearby communities.\par \par Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park\par PO Box 128\par West Glacier, MT 59936\par 406-888-7800
The Nantahala National Forest in western North Carolina comprises 530,000 acres of hardwood-covered mountain-, valley-, and canyonland. The Indians who inhabited the region called it Nantahala, which means "noon day sun," because the bottom of the Nantahala Gorge sees the light of the sun only at noon. The forest offers camping, hiking, boating, and other recreation in a setting of scenic vistas and woodland glens. \par \par There are 395 campsites in Nantahala, and family, group, and primitive camping are all available, as well as boating, bridle trails, fishing, hiking, and swimming. The forest is open all year and campsites are open from spring through late fall. Nantahala is adjacent to Cherokee National Forest, which lies on its west side, and Pisgah National Forest, which lies directly east. Great Smoky Mountains National Park forms the forest's northern border.\par \par Nantahala National Forest\par PO Box 2750\par Forest Supervisor\par Asheville, NC 28802\par 828-257-4200\par 828-257-4203\par 828-257-4263
Pisgah National Forest, named for the mountain from which Moses saw the promised land, covers almost 505,000 acres of mountainous western North Carolina. Closely allied to the Blue Ridge Parkway and abutting Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the forest encompasses such varied attractions as the Cradle of Forestry, the site of the first forestry school in America; 138 miles of the Appalachian Trail; and clear mountain streams known for excellent trout fishing. Waterfalls surge into deep gorges, and mountains bloom in summer with rhododendron and azalea. Easily accessible from the city of Asheville, Pisgah National Forest is a great choice for a day trip or a longer foray into the beauty of the Blue Ridge.\par \par There is a wealth of recreational opportunity available in Pisgah National Forest. Stop by the Cradle of Forestry in America, once a part of the extensive Biltmore Estate, to experience mountain life of the early 1900s. If you visit Roan Mountain in June, you'll be treated to hundreds of acres of blooming rhododendron; in winter you can enjoy Roan's spruce-fir forest and cross-country ski. Spectacular Linville Gorge and its upper and lower falls are accessible only via steep, rugged trails, but you can view the awe-inspiring scene from trails off the Blue Ridge Parkway and other nearby roads. At Sliding Rock, near Brevard, you can careen down a smooth cascade into a pool of cool, deep mountain water. If you want to escape civilization, the 600 miles of forest trails could be just what you're looking for.\par \par Both primitive backcountry campsites and established campgrounds are available in the forest. Fishing and hunting are allowed with the proper permits. You can run whitewater rapids on some forest streams; others are perfect for a leisurely inner tube float or swim. Hikers will find a wide variety of trails, from easy, paved nature walks to strenuous mountain treks. In season, wildflowers carpet the mountain meadows and the forest provides habitat for many bird, mammal, and reptile species. Contact forest administration for information on special events and specific recreational opportunities.\par \par Pisgah National Forest\par 160 Zillicoa\par Asheville, NC 28801\par 828-257-4200
4-257-4200
Named after the poet Joyce Kilmer, the 3,800-acre forest is a naturalist's dream. Hiking and backpack trails will take you through the exquisite old-growth forest. Enormous Eastern hemlocks and yellow poplars tower above the 2-mile Joyce Kilmer Memorial Loop Trail, widely acclaimed for its exceptional beauty. Amidst the poplars and azaleas, hikers will encounter native wildlife. Copies of Joyce Kilmer's poem "Trees" are available at the ranger station.\par \par Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest\par Rt 1 Box 16A\par Robbinsville, NC 28771\par 828-479-6431\par 828-479-6784
Fontana Dam, completed in 1946, is a hydroelectric power facility of the Tennessee Valley Authority. At 480 feet tall, it is the highest dam in the eastern United States and impounds the 30-mile-long Fontana Lake. Tours of powerhouse and dam available. Located on North Carolina Hwy 28, 25 mi W of US Hwy 19.\par \par Fontana Dam\par Fontana Dam, NC 28733\par 704-488-2241
With its four-million-acre area comprised of four ranger districts and a national recreation area, Toiyabe is the largest national forest outside of Alaska. From the Carson Ranger District, its northernmost unit in Carson City, NV, to Spring Mountain National Recreation Area just outside Las Vegas, Toiyabe spans a wide variety of climates and ecosystems, and provides a wealth of natural resources and recreational opportunities. Considered to be "rugged-mountainous" terrain, the forest rises from an elevation of 4,100 feet in the Spring Mountain NRA, to the 12,374 summit of Dunderburg Peak, in the forest's Hoover Wilderness, and the Joshua trees of the desert near Las Vegas give way to juniper in the foothills and Jeffrey and lodgepole pine in the mountains.
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\par The forest's size and variety assure a wide range of recreational opportunities, as well. There are over 1,100 hiking trails and more than 1,600 miles of roadway in the forest. Hiking and horseback riding are popular, with snowmobiles and cross-country skiers claiming many of the paths in winter. The Pacific Crest Trail passes through a portion of the forest, and the Toiyabe Crest Trail, the Mount Charleston National Recreational Trail, and the Tahoe Rim Trail (which will soon be completed) also provide challenging hiking and spectacular scenery. Other popular pastimes are fishing, hunting, downhill skiing, canoeing, and just plain sightseeing.
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\par Toiyabe National Forest offers 35 developed campgrounds with close to 900 individual and group sites available. Space in many of these facilities can be reserved in advance by calling 800-280-CAMP; all fees will be collected when the reservation is made. In addition to campground, other forest facilities include picnic grounds, observation areas, a developed snow-play area, cross-country ski trails, and two ski resorts.
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\par If you're serious about getting into the backcountry, Toiyabe offers access to eight wilderness areas, including Mt. Charleston, Table Mountains, Carson-Iceberg, Hoover, Mokelumne, Mt. Rose, Atla Toquima, and Arc Dome. Contact the forest supervisor for details regarding backcountry permits and restrictions.\par \par Toiyabe National Forest\par 1200 Franklin Way\par Sparks, NV\par 702-331-6444
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Lake Mead National Recreation Area lies at the interface of the Mojave, Great Basin, and Sonoran Deserts in one of the hottest and driest places on Earth. Only a few miles west sits Las Vegas, the neon oasis. The horizon here looks limitless and is framed by striated stone, mountains, colorful wildflowers, and open sky. The area is massive--1.5 million acres spread north and south from Hoover Dam across nearly 3,000 square miles of Nevada and Arizona. It sprawls northward along Lake Mohave, and turns at the Hoover Dam, stretching eastward until it meets the border of Grand Canyon National Park at its eastern limit. Lake Mead's clear waters were formed by the Hoover Dam in 1935, and its sister lake, Lake Mohave, was created by Davis Dam in 1953. The recreation area was established in October 1964 and has since become a popular destination for millions of visitors each year. It will provide you with a wealth of diverse recreations and discoveries. \b
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\par What to see and do. \plain\f0\fs20 For lodging, Lake Mead offers 1,148 campsites in eight campgrounds, five motels, and six RV campgrounds with full electric, water, and sewage hookups. Concession lodging and overnight boat camping are also available in the marinas. Campgrounds are equipped with drinking water, toilets, and dump stations, and are situated to provide easy access to laundries and showers. If you're looking for full amenities, the most developed campground in Lake Mead National Recreation Area is Boulder Basin, which has three large marinas.
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\par Camping, swimming, boating, waterskiing, fishing, scuba diving, wildlife viewing, and hiking are the leading summer activities. Within the park you'll be able to rent houseboats, powerboats, mooring slips, and buoys, as well as buy fuel, camping and sports equipment, and groceries. You can enjoy raft and boat excursions, dam tours, and interpretive programs offered by the Alan Bible Visitor Center, which lies four miles northeast of Boulder City. The staff at the visitor center can also provide you with land and nautical maps, activity schedules, and any other information you'll need during your visit.
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\par One way to familiarize yourself with the Lake Mead area is to take a scenic drive. You'll be rewarded with dramatic desert and mountain vistas and panoramic lake views. Follow the Lakeshore and Northshore Scenic Drives that wind along the banks of Lake Mead. Be sure to visit the enormous Hoover Dam and Davis Dam facilities, where you'll be able to tour the inner workings and walk along the upper decks of these engineering miracles.
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\par Picnicking in any of the recreation area's scenic picnic sites is also a treat. You'll find sites with drinking water, tables, rest rooms, and cooking grills situated in the Callville Bay, Las Vegas Bay, Boulder Beach, Cottonwood Cove, and Katherine areas. Other picnic sites that have no drinking water are also available.
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\par Another good way to explore Lake Mead is to go on a desert hike. Hiking will allow you to see places you can't see from a boat or while driving. You can hike to see the sandstone formations situated near Redstone Picnic Area, or to a canyon where you can see centuries-old Indian petroglyphs carved in rock.
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\par Lake Mead and Lake Mohave are great settings for water recreation; the waters are blue and cool even in the hottest summertime heat. If you just want to sit back and enjoy good fishing, both lakes are stocked with bass, trout, catfish, crappie, bluegill, and other species waiting for the well-cast lure. Sailing and windsurfing against a backdrop of mountain ranges and desert expanses are options, as well as swimming in the lakes' blue waters.
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\par Noteworthy attractions adjacent to or near Lake Mead National Recreation Area include Valley of Fire State Park, located at the parks northwest edge, and Lost City Museum, found at the northern end of Lake Mead. Of course, you can always take an urban excursion into America's recreation city, Las Vegas.\par \par Lake Mead National Recreation Area\par 601 Nevada Highway\par Superintendent, Lake Mead NRA\par Boulder City, NV 89005\par 702-293-8907\par 702-293-8906\par 702-598-7936
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 About 7,700 years ago, Mount Mazama, a 12,000 foot volcanic mountain in the Cascade Range, exploded with such cataclysmic fury that ash from the eruption fell 700 miles away in Canada. The Klamath Indians witnessed the catastrophe, and their lore interprets it as a fight to the death between Llao, the spirit of the underworld who made his home on Mt. Mazama, and Skell, the spirit of the "above world," who dwelled on Mt. Shasta, to the south. Llao lost and his mountain was destroyed. The deep blue lake that formed in the resulting caldera was sacred to the Klamath. It remained unknown to western explorers until 1853 when John Hillman and a band of prospectors happened upon the lake. It went by several names such as Blue Lake, Deep Blue Lake, Great Sunken Lake, and Lake Majesty, but in 1869, newspaper man John Sutton dubbed it "Crater Lake," for the crater atop the volcanic cone of Wizard Island, and that was the name that stuck.
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\par The next year, Kansas schoolboy William Gladstone Steel decided to read the scrap of newspaper in which his lunch had been wrapped, and a story about the lake piqued his interest. It was another 15 years before he gazed in awe into its incredibly colored water and began his campaign to set aside Crater Lake as a national park. In 1886, preliminary soundings of the lake (made with piano wire) indicated it was more than 1,900 feet deep. It is claimed to be 20 times purer than most drinking water. Theodore Roosevelt signed legislation establishing six-mile-wide Crater Lake, by then confirmed as the deepest lake in the United States, the nation's sixth national park in 1902. \b
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\par What to see and do.\plain\f0\fs20 Stop by the Steel Information Center to acquaint yourself with the park, then proceed to the Sinnott Memorial Overlook for a panoramic view of the lake. Drive clockwise along the rim of the caldera on the 33-mile Rim Drive, stopping at each overlook for a new and spectacular lake view. Picnic areas are available at several points along the Rim Drive. Hike to the summit of the Watchman or Mt. Scott (the highest point in the park at 8,929 feet), or take Cleetwood Trail to the lake's edge and hop on the boat tour. Hike the park's easy nature trails, or load your pack and head into the backcountry. The Pacific Crest Trail, which extends along the mountainous spine of the west coast from Canada to Mexico, passes through the park. Be sure to see the Pinnacles, eerie rock needle remnants of fumaroles, exposed when the volcanic ash around them eroded. Trailers are not permitted on Pinnacle Road.
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\par The summer season at Crater Lake is very short: from late June through September. Snow comes early and accumulates quickly, closing the Rim Drive and the northern entrance road by October. Route 62 remains open, however, and although few of the services are open, the park is active with cross-country skiers and snowmobilers. Snowmobiles are only allowed in the park from the north entrance and off-trail riding is prohibited.
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\par The Steel Information Center is open all year, from 9 AM to 5 PM. A movie about Crater Lake is shown every half-hour, and books and other informative materials are available. The Rim Village Visitor Center is open from June through September (call for specific dates), and nearby Crater Lake Lodge is open from late May to mid-October. Accommodations, food, and other services are available at Rim Village and Mazama Village, though most are available only during the summer. Crater Lake has two campgrounds, a large facility at Mazama Village and a smaller, tent-only site at Lost Creek. Backcountry camping is allowed with a permit, obtainable at no charge from park authorities. Call the park for seasonal closure information.
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\par If you'd like to see more examples of Cascade Range lakes, visit Diamond Lake in the Umpqua National Forest, or Winema National Forest's Lake of the Woods. Oregon Caves and Lava Beds National Monuments are relatively close by.\par \par Crater Lake National Park\par PO Box 7\par Crater Lake, OR 97604\par 541-594-2211\par ___-___-____\par 541-594-2299
The timbered slopes of this southwestern Oregon forest cover almost a million acres from the summit of the Cascades west to the lowlands. Named for the Umpqua Indians who once inhabited the region, the forest is a scenic delight, full of mountain lakes, rivers, and waterfalls. Many interesting forest sites are within easy walking distance of trailheads along Oregon State Highway 138, a portion of the National Scenic Byway System, and include Colliding Rivers Visitor Information Center, Deadline Falls where fish can be observed jumping the falls in summer, Susan Creek Falls and Indian Mounds, Fall Creek Falls and its unique columns of volcanic rock, Toketee Falls where the North Umpqua River plunges 80 feet over a wall of basalt columns, and Watson Falls, at 272 feet the third-highest falls in Oregon. History buffs will want to visit the Bohemia Mining District, or take in the 1920s overlook on display at the Tiller Ranger District.
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\par Hikers will find almost 400 miles of forest trails to explore, including a 28-mile section of the Pacific Crest National Recreation Trail that follows the ridges of the western mountains from the Canadian to the Mexican borders. The North Umpqua Trail, which winds through the forest for 79 miles and eventually intersects with the Pacific Crest Trail is also quite popular. If you include snowmobile and cross-country ski trails, an essential component of winter forest recreation, forest trail length increases to more than 600 miles. Equestrians and mountain bikers are also welcome at Umpqua; consult a ranger for information on trail availability. Backpackers seeking solitude will find it in one of the forest's three wilderness areas: Boulder Creek, Rogue-Umpqua Divide (which features 90-acre Fish Lake), and Mt. Thielsen, which is the only wilderness area in Oregon designated as "pristine."
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\par The North Umpqua River is classified as a Wild and Scenic River, and attracts anglers the world over to fly-fish for steelhead each summer. Winter steelhead, chinook and coho salmon, and sea-run cutthroat trout also abound in the river, which contains a large number of native (nonhatchery) fish in its run. In addition, the North Umpqua is renowned for its white-water rafting, and outfitters offer a variety of float trips through its rapids.
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\par There are several privately operated resorts in the forest, including Diamond Lake Resort and R.V. Park, Lemolo Lake Resort, and the rustic Steamboat Inn. The forest itself boasts almost 800 campsites in 38 campgrounds ranging from primitive tent-only areas with no water to more developed sites that can accommodate RVs. You can reserve space in selected campgrounds, but reservations are not required. Call 800-280-CAMP for more information. Group campsites and picnic facilities are available. Contact the park for more information.\par \par Umpqua National Forest\par 2900 NW Stewart Pkwy\par PO Box 1008\par Roseburg, OR 97470\par 541-672-6601
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 This is the place to begin your visit to Crater Lake. The panoramic view from the Sinnott Memorial Overlook is breathtaking, and a plaque at the site points out various landmarks along the lake's rim. After taking your first look at Crater Lake, tour around it on the 33-mile Rim Drive. Overlooks along the drive afford sweeping views of Wizard Island, Llao Rock, Skell Head, the Phantom Ship, Cloudcap, and Mount Scott, the highest peak in the park. If you feel like stretching your legs, the Rim Drive gives you access to trails to the Watchman and Mount Scott summits.
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\par Back at Rim Village, the visitor center provides information on the park and sells books, maps, and other related materials. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 The Crater Lake Lodge, built of local wood and stone, opened for business in 1915. Renovated to its original rustic elegance in 1996, the lodge offers 71 rooms, many with a lake view. Contact 541-830-8700 or 541-594-2511 for more information.
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\par Food service is available at the cafeteria/gift shop building.
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\par There are no camping facilities at Rim Village. The nearest campground is located at Mazama Village, seven miles south of the rim.\par \par Rim Village\par PO Box 128\par Crater Lake Co\par Crater Lake, OR 97604\par 541-594-2511
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Constructed of local timber and stone, the Crater Lake Lodge first opened its doors in 1915. This rustic hostelry has been meticulously restored and boasts 71 guest rooms. Some of the rooms even have claw-footed bathtubs with views of the lake. A massive stone fireplace dominates the Great Hall and picture windows look out on Wizard Island. A restaurant, a gift shop, the Sinnott Memorial Overlook, and the Rim Village Visitor Center are all within walking distance. The 33-mile, scenic Rim Drive begins at Rim Village. The lodge, like most other Rim Village amenities, is open seasonally. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 For reservations, rate information, and seasonal availability, please call 541-830-8700, or 541-594-2511. No camping facilities are located at the rim of the lake. The nearest campground is at Mazama Village, seven miles south of the rim.\par \par Crater Lake Lodge\par PO Box 128\par Crater Lake Co\par Crater Lake, OR 96704\par 541-830-8700\par 541-594-2511
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Cleetwood Trail is the only path leading from the rim to the water's edge, an approximate 700-foot drop in elevation. A boat tour leaves several times a day in summer from the dock at Cleetwood Cove, accessible only by hiking down the trail. The boat excursion takes about an hour and three-quarters to circle the lake, making a stop at Wizard Island and passing close by the Phantom Ship. If you like, you can stay a while to fish or hike on Wizard Island and take a later boat out. Keep in mind that once you're back at Cleetwood Cove, you'll have to climb back up the trail to reach Rim Drive.
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\par From the late 19th century to the 1940s, Crater Lake was stocked with several varieties of fish. Schools of rainbow trout and kokanee salmon still survive in the lake, and fishing is allowed (artificial lures only) at Cleetwood Cove and from Wizard Island. No permits are needed, and there are no limits on the number or size of fish you can take from the lake, but bear in mind that the lake provides scant food for these fish. Most don't grow to be very big.\par \par Cleetwood Cove\par PO Box 7\par Crater Lake National Park\par Crater Lake, OR 96704\par 541-594-2211
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Slightly south of Rim Village, the Steel Information Center at park headquarters shows a movie about Crater Lake twice an hour, and provides additional park information. A branch of the U.S. Postal Service operates here year round with limited hours from October through April. Steel Information Center is open year-round, from 9 AM to 5 PM.
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\par Be sure to stroll the half-mile Castle Crest Wildflower Trail that originates here for a close-up look at the several species of wildflowers that grow in the Cascades.\par \par Steel Information Center\par PO Box 7\par Crater Lake National Park\par Crater Lake, OR 96704\par 541-594-2211
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Mazama Village is the hub for services at Crater Lake National Park. Located at the junction of Oregon Route 62 and the road that extends north to the lake's rim, Mazama Village provides such amenities as a motel, a campground, and a general store/gas station. The Mazama Village Store offers a limited selection of food and sundries, as well as unleaded gasoline, oil, and a few other automotive items. They do not sell diesel fuel, and there are no mechanics on site. All Mazama Village services are seasonal; contact the park for specific dates of operation.
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\par Both the Godfrey Glen Trail (one mile) and the Annie Creek Canyon Trail (1.3 miles) originate near Mazama Village. Godfrey Glen overlooks the fluted spires and pinnacles of a canyon carved by Munson Creek, while Annie Creek Canyon Trail leads through colorful swaths of wildflowers into the deep, V-shaped canyon carved by Annie Creek. There is a picnic area at the Godfrey Glen trailhead. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 Mazama Campground offers 198 sites (no hookups) on a first-come, first-served basis. A dump station, pay showers, a coin laundry, and flush toilets are provided. Camping fees range from $11 to $13 per night; campers may stay a maximum of 14 days.
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\par Mazama Village Motor Inn offers 40 reasonably priced units, in season. For reservations, rate information, or seasonal availability, please call 541-830-8700.\par \par Mazama Village\par PO Box 128\par Crater Lake National Park\par Crater Lake, OR 96704\par 541-830-8700\par 541-594-2511
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 The eruption that created the Crater Lake Caldera also rained thick layers of ash over the surrounding countryside. In the southeast corner of the park, hot gas forced its way through fissures in the ashflow, melding the crumbly pumice around the vents into stony vertical plugs. Through the centuries, Wheeler Creek has eroded the surrounding layers of loose ash, exposing these fingers of rock as the other-worldly spires and needles of the Pinnacles. To reach the Pinnacles, turn off the Rim Drive at Kerr Notch and follow the road for seven miles south to Pinnacles Overlook.\par \par The Pinnacles\par PO Box 7\par Crater Lake National Park\par Crater Lake, OR 96704\par 541-594-2211
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Located approximately three miles south of the rim along the road between Kerr Notch and the Pinnacles, Lost Creek Campground offers sites for tent camping. In addition to being close to the eerie landscape of the Pinnacles, the campground is also located next to Grayback Road, a gravel, one-way motor nature trail that connects to the Rim Drive at scenic Vidae Falls. This is the one park trail open to bicycles, which are otherwise consigned to share the developed park roads with automobiles. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 There are 16 tents-only sites available at Lost Creek Campground on a first-come, first-served basis. Water and toilets are provided, and the campground is open from mid-July to mid-September. Contact the park headquarters for specific dates of operation. Campers may stay a maximum of 14 days, for a fee of $10 per day.
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\par This campground fills rapidly; those in the know suggest you claim a site and set up camp when you first enter the park.\par \par Lost Creek Campground\par PO Box 7\par Crater Lake National Park\par Crater Lake, OR 96704\par 541-594-2211
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Wizard Island, so named because its conical shape is reminiscent of a wizard's hat, is one of two cinder cones that grew in the caldera after the collapse of Mount Mazama. While the other cone lies under Crater Lake's calm surface, Wizard Island rises more than 700 feet above it. A forest of Shasta red fir and mountain hemlock grow low on its steep sides; the island also supports a few whitebark pine, some manzanita, and a smattering of wildflowers. Golden mantled ground squirrels scamper around the island, which is also a haven for birds, and it even has a population of pure black garter snakes, adapted to blend in with its dark cinders.
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\par To get to Wizard Island, hop aboard the boat tour that begins at Cleetwood Cove and disembark when it makes its brief stop at the island. In season, the tour stops by every couple of hours, so you'll have plenty of time to hike the steep Wizard Island Summit Trail that winds up to the top of the cone. It is a little shy of a mile in length, but rises over 700 feet, making it relatively strenuous. The Fumarole Bay Trail skirts the base of the cone around the island's shore for seven-tenths of a mile, one way. It is fairly level but requires scrambling over boulders and traversing loose cinder. At trail's end you'll find Fumarole Bay, clear and cold. Fishing is permitted (artificial lures only); no license or limits apply. You might be tempted to swim, but the cold water temperature (rarely warmer than 55 degrees Fahrenheit) precludes a dip in the lake.
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\par When you are finished exploring Wizard Island, hop the next boat out, provided there is space on it. Return space on the boat tour is not guaranteed until the last boat of the day in the late afternoon, so come to the island prepared. Bring water and snacks with you. There is a pit toilet near the dock, but no other services on the island.\par \par Wizard Island\par PO Box 7\par Crater Lake National Park\par Crater Lake, OR 96704\par 541-594-2211
Within this forest's boundaries, the terrain varies from the forested eastern slopes of the Cascades to vast areas of marshes and lakes, much of which has been set aside in National Wildlife Refuges. Long inhabited by Native American peoples and then western explorers, this forest was named after Wi-Ne-Ma, a Modoc Indian who served as an interpreter and mediator between the US Army and the Modocs during the Modoc War of 1872. Her name means "Woman of a Brave Heart." Visitors to the Forest have the opportunity to hike 22 miles of the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail and 11 miles of the National Recreation Trail. Another 82 miles of trail beckon trekkers into remote areas.
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\par Winema is laced with streams, rivers, and lakes, offering numerous chances to fish. Williamson River, to name but one, boasts nationally renowned rainbow, brown, and brook trout populations. Whether standing knee-deep in a trout stream or strolling along a scenic trail, keep your eyes open for all manner of wildlife, from deer in the upland forests to pelicans or osprey in the lower watery regions. During the winter months, bird-watchers are rewarded with frequent sightings of bald eagles because the Klamath Basin hosts the largest concentrations of wintering and nesting bald eagles in the lower 48 states. Winter activities include snowmobiling along 242 miles of trails and cross-country skiing the 39 miles of Nordic trails. Stop by one of the ranger stations, located in Chemult, Chiloquin, and Klamath Falls, for detailed information about the numerous campgrounds and picnic facilities scattered throughout this forest's 1.1 million acres. You can also pick up a current birding list.\par \par Winema National Forest\par 2819 Dahlia\par Klamath Falls, OR 97601\par 541-883-6714
Conifers, mountain meadows, and shady stream beds characterize this 630,000-acre forest located in the southwest corner of Oregon. Divided into two parts and encompassing a variety of terrain, the forest offers many recreational opportunities. Hikers and horseback riders trek along 400 miles of trails that dip into deep valleys, then rise up into the mountains of the Cascade Range. In the northeast section, the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail runs through the Sky Lake Wilderness Area within the forest boundaries. Hike or picnic along stretches of the Wild and Scenic Upper Rogue River. In the southwest section, visit the 988-acre water recreation hub, Applegate Lake. Set in the Siskiyous, this reservoir provides myriad opportunities for fishing, boating, swimming, hiking, and camping. While in this section, drive part or all of the "Siskiyou Loop Discovery Tour," a scenic self-guided route through the mountains.
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\par With the onset of winter come blankets of snow, which welcome snowmobilers and both downhill and cross-country skiers. Alpine enthusiasts find the Mt. Ashland Ski Area in the southwest portion, close by Interstate 5.
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\par Before you enter the forest, stop at one of the ranger stations to pick up information about campgrounds (over 40 in the forest), picnic facilities, and other useful tips. Stations are located in Jacksonville, Ashland, Butte Falls, and Prospect (all in Oregon).\par \par Rogue River National Forest\par 333 West Eighth St\par PO Box 520\par Medford, OR 97501\par 541-858-2200
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 In the summer of 1863, Robert E. Lee began an invasion north of the Mason-Dixon line with the intention of destroying a major railroad bridge at Harrisburg, PA, thus disabling northern supply routes. At Gettysburg, a chance encounter with George Meade's Union forces led to a three-day battle that saturated the surrounding farmland with blood. Control changed hands several times during the course of the battle, but by the third day the Union was holding a strong strategic position. General Lee, in an attempt to penetrate the Union center, directed General James Longstreet to attack and break the federal line using 12,000 Confederate infantry, some of whom were under the command of Brig. General George E. Pickett. Less than an hour after "Pickett's Charge" began, over 5,000 Confederate soldiers lay dead or wounded, the courageous effort an utter failure.
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\par Over 51,000 men became casualties at Gettysburg, the bloodiest battle of the Civil War. Lee retreated into Virginia and, although the conflict would drag on for two more years, the Confederates never fully recovered from the losses, both physical and psychological, that they suffered at Gettysburg. Only months after the battle, a national cemetery was dedicated at the site. The highlight of the ceremony was meant to be Edward Everett's two-hour oration. The most popular speaker of the era, Everett recounted the battle in painstaking detail. Then President Abraham Lincoln rose to deliver his brief address. He spoke for only two minutes, but his powerful words, now known as the Gettysburg Address, are remembered and cherished by all Americans.
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\par Today, portions of the battlefield are preserved much as they were that fateful July. In addition, more than 1,000 monuments and 400 cannon are on view along 40 miles of scenic roadways. The adjoining Gettysburg National Cemetery is the final resting place for more than 6,000 soldiers, over 1,600 of them unidentified. Of these, 3,512 are Civil War burials. \b
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\par What to see and do. \plain\f0\fs20 Begin your tour of the battlefield with a stop at the Visitor Center and Gettysburg Museum of the Civil War. There, you can learn more about the conflict through interpretive displays and a large electronic map with lights showing troop movements and the order of the battle. A schedule of park activities, including ranger-led tours and interpretive programs, is posted here. Nearby, the Cyclorama Center offers more exhibits, an informative film, and a sound and light program featuring Paul Philipoteaux's Gettysburg Cyclorama, a huge painting depicting Pickett's Charge.
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\par Most visitors choose to drive through the battlefield. The auto tour, which starts outside the visitor center, includes all major battle sites. Informative markers along the route explain the significance of each numbered stop. Pick up a map of the self-guided tour at the visitor center; the route usually takes two to three hours. Anyone can make reservations for a bus tour of the battlefield led by a licensed guide. For reservation information call (717) 334-1124 ext. 439.
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\par If you want to get closer to the action, several trails wind around the battlefield. The High Water Mark Trail originates near the Cyclorama Center and leads through the area where Union forces repulsed Pickett's Charge to General Meade's Headquarters. It is about a mile long. The Big Round Top Loop Trail is also a mile long and introduces hikers to the flora and fauna of the southern Pennsylvanian woodlands. Details about longer hikes, such as the Billy Yank Trail (nine miles) and the Johnny Reb Trail (three and a half miles) are available at the visitor center. The Park covers 6,000 acres/26 miles of park roads.
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\par A Youth Group Campground is located in the park and is only open to organized groups from mid-April to mid-October. For more information, contact the park at 717-334-1124, extension 423. Other accommodations, including campgrounds, hotels, and restaurants, are located in the city of Gettysburg, adjacent to the park.
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\par The Visitor Center and Gettysburg Museum of the Civil War is open from 8 AM to 7 PM during the summer and to 5 PM the remainder of the year. The Cyclorama Center is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM. Both facilities are closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day. The park and surrounding community host a number of historic festivals, craft shows, and special interest programs throughout the year. Contact the park or the Gettysburg Convention and Visitors Bureau for more details (717-334-6274).
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\par The Eisenhower National Historic Site is adjacent to the park; tours of the Eisenhower home leave from the Gettysburg National Military Park visitor center. The city of Gettysburg plays host to a number of attractions, from more than two dozen museums to riding stables and miniature golf courses. Independent bus and historic trolley tours of the park can be arranged. Gettysburg is located close to Amish country, and is less than 40 miles away from the state capitol, Harrisburg. A 90-minute drive gets you to Reading, where you can shop for bargains at Pennsylvania's only factory outlet stores, or to Hershey Park where you can thrill to the roller coaster or take a leisurely turn on the merry-go-round.\par \par Gettysburg National Military Park\par 97 Taneytown Road\par Gettysburg, PA 17325-2804\par 717-334-1124\par 717-334-1891
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Dwight Eisenhower, 34th President of the United States, and his wife, Mamie, bought this 189-acre estate in 1951 and it was the only home the couple ever owned. Eisenhower lived here until his death in 1969; two years earlier, he and his wife had deeded the property to the National Park Service. Mamie continued to live at the estate until her death in 1979, and the property was opened to the public in 1980. The site is adjacent to Gettysburg national Military Park. For more information call (717) 338-9114.
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\par During Eisenhower's presidential term, the farm served as a "temporary White House." The Eisenhowers hosted a number of world leaders at the farm including Khrushchev, De Gaulle, Adenauer, Nehru, and Churchill.
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\par When the Eisenhowers first acquired the estate in the 1950s, they built the two-story, Georgian-style house with the help of architect Milton Osborne of Penn State University. The surrounding grounds were also expanded and extensively landscaped. The decor Mamie chose for the house is all 1950s and a blend of informal and formal styles. Outside in the yard is a putting green, which was donated by the Professional Golfer's Association of America. \b
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\par What to see and do. \plain\f0\fs20 You can take a guided tour of the farm and a self-guided tour of the house; tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis. If you have a large group, you may want to schedule your tour ten days or more in advance, because tours fill up quickly and are especially crowded during the summer months.
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\par Rangers offer interpretive talks out on the lawn during the summer months. You can also take a one-half-mile, self-guided tour around the grounds and other farm buildings. Stop in at the visitor center to pick up a full-color brochure.
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\par Special events and activities include a military weekend in late spring and a Christmas with the Eisenhowers festival in December. The site also offers educational programs for school-age children; call for details and a schedule.
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\par The site is located near the Gettysburg National Military Park off of PA 134. No parking is available. The site is accessible only by a shuttle bus from the National Park Service Visitor Center. Except for major holidays, the estate is open daily from April to October, and Wednesdays through Sundays from November to March.\par \par Eisenhower National Historic Site\par 97 Taneytown Rd\par Gettysburg, PA 17325-2804\par 717-334-1124\par 717-338-9114\par 717-338-0821
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 On the morning of July 1, 1863, a division of the Confederate army, scouting for supplies, encountered a Union cavalry detachment west of town on the Chambersburg Pike. The Confederates attacked and, after meeting staunch resistance from the greatly outnumbered Union forces, eventually pushed them back through Gettysburg, taking many prisoners. The Union troops retreated to Cemetery and Culp's Hills, south of town, and spent the night building up defenses as Meade's Army of the Potomac began to gather and take position.\par \par McPherson Ridge\par 97 Taneytown Road\par Gettysburg National Military Park\par Gettysburg, PA 17325\par 717-334-1124
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 By the morning of July 2, 1863, the second day of the battle, both armies were approaching full strength. Lee massed his men along Seminary Ridge. To the east, almost a mile away, Meade's army was poised on Cemetery Ridge. Lee attacked, attempting to dislodge both Meade's right and left flanks from their superior defensive positions. Lee's strategy was not successful. Although they managed to take a portion of Culp's Hill at one point of the battle, the Confederates failed to move Meade from East Cemetery Hill.\par \par Seminary Ridge\par 97 Taneytown Road\par Gettysburg National Military Park\par Gettysburg, PA 17325\par 717-334-1124
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 On July 3, 1863, the third and final day of the battle, Lee attacked the central Union position atop Cemetery Ridge. By early afternoon, cannons thundered as both sides engaged in a heavy artillery battle. It seemed nothing could move the deeply entrenched Federal forces. In a bold move, General Lee organized a Confederate infantry charge, 12,000 soldiers strong, against their opponents on Cemetery Ridge. The maneuver lasted only 50 minutes. Once the dust settled, more than one-half of the members of "Pickett's Charge," as it came to be known, were dead, wounded, or missing.
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\par At the same time, Lee's cavalry clashed with Union horsemen east of Gettysburg, and suffered a decisive defeat. Unable to rally after such enormous casualties, Lee and his army began their retreat back to Virginia on July 4.\par \par Cemetery Ridge\par 97 Taneytown Road\par Gettysburg National Military Park\par Gettysburg, PA 17325\par 717-344-1124
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 The Battle of Gettysburg is referred to as the "High Water Mark of the Confederacy," where Confederate forces reached the peak of their power and, yet, were defeated. The war rolled on for two more years, but Lee would never again attempt as bold an offensive move as his invasion of the north, halted once and for all at the small town of Gettysburg, PA.
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\par This trail, which begins at the Cyclorama Center, covers the area where "Pickett's Charge" met the Union forces. The trail passes by artillery positions, unit monuments, and General Meade's Headquarters.\par \par High Water Mark Trail\par 97 Taneytown Road\par Gettysburg National Military Park\par Gettysburg, PA 17325\par 717-334-1124
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 This looping nature trail will introduce you to the natural history and biology of the hardwood forests of southern Pennsylvania. You'll pass breastworks constructed by both armies along the way. The trailhead is located just before Stop 8 on the Auto Tour.\par \par Big Round Top Loop Trail\par 97 Taneytown Road\par Gettysburg National Military Park\par Gettysburg, PA 17325\par 717-334-1124
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 This visitor center and museum provides historical exhibits and orientation materials to introduce you to the significance of the town and the battle of Gettysburg. Rangers are on hand to answer questions and help you plan your visit, and, for an admission fee, you can view an electronic map that follows the battle action via a lighted display. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging.\plain\f0\fs20 Campgrounds, overnight accommodations, and dining establishments are available in the town of Gettysburg, adjacent to the park. A representative of the Gettysburg Convention and Visitors Bureau is available seasonally at the park visitor center to assist you.\par \par Visitor Ctr & Gettysburg Museum of the Civil War\par 97 Taneytown Road\par Gettysburg National Military Park\par Gettysburg, PA 17325\par 717-334-1124
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Civil War exhibits and a free film are offered at the Cyclorama Center, but the heart of the display is Paul Philipoteaux's 356 foot long circular oil-on-canvas painting depicting Pickett's Charge. The Gettysburg Cyclorama is presented in a sound and light program, which is scheduled regularly throughout the day. Admission is charged for the Cyclorama program, but access to the rest of the Cyclorama Center is free of charge. There is no lodging in the park.\par \par Cyclorama Center\par 97 Taneytown Road\par Gettysburg National Military Park\par Gettysburg, PA 17325\par 717-334-1124
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 The casualties from the Battle of Gettysburg were so extreme that almost every building in the small town was employed to house the wounded. Most of the dead from both armies had been hastily buried in shallow graves, an intolerable situation for the town and poor treatment for the men who gave their lives at the site.
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\par Andrew Curtin, the Governor of Pennsylvania, had David Willis, an influential member of the community, quickly obtain land on which to found a national cemetery. Within four months, the 17-acre site was dedicated with a lavish ceremony featuring Edward Everett, the most popular speaker of his day. He delivered an oration rife with classical allusion wherein he recounted the events of the battle in painstaking detail. When, after more than two hours, Everett finished his speech, President Abraham Lincoln stepped to the podium to deliver his brief remarks. He spoke for only two minutes, but his scant, 272-word address, so appropriate to the occasion, is still remembered fondly and repeated often today, more than a century later.
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\par You can drive or stroll through the cemetery, taking in memorials to the fallen soldiers and to Lincoln's famous Gettysburg Address. Of the more than 6,000 soldiers buried here, over 1,600 were never identified.\par \par Gettysburg National Cemetery\par Taneytown Road\par Gettysburg, PA 17325\par 717-334-5533
The soldiers who lost their lives in the bitter fighting of the Civil War battle, as well as Abraham Lincoln's famous address, have consecrated Gettysburg National Military Park. Forty miles of road lead to the key points on the battlefield; guides are available. The visitor center houses an electric map and the largest Civil War collection in the country. Eisenhower National Historic Site adjoins the battlefield, and visitors who go the top of the 98-foot tower built to get a view of the battlefield also may look over the late president's land. Today visitors can take self-guided tours of the farmhouse and grounds.
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\par The town of Gettysburg offers many war-related attractions, including the privately owned National Civil War Wax Museum and the Lincoln Train Museum. Lincoln stayed in the Wills House on the square when he came to give his address. His room is furnished as it was when he spent the night and can be visited. Nearby, you'll find the Land of Little Horses, a miniature horse farm.\par \par Gettysburg\par 35 Carlisle Street\par Gettysburg Convention & Visitors Bureau\par Gettysburg, PA\par 717-334-6274\par 717-334-1166
There are many activities here for the skier and non-skier alike. The amusement park offers indoor ice skating, an alpine slide, a scenic chair lift, bungee jumping, a trampoline, a spider web, a bungee run, the Power Alley batting cage, and an arcade with video and country carnival games. Overnight accommodations available in downtown Gatlinburg, with a tram providing convenient transportation. Ski season is December 1 through March 1.\par \par Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort & Amusement Park\par 1001 Parkway\par Gatlinburg, TN 37738\par 423-436-5423\par 423-430-3920
This entertainment theme park is situated in the Smoky Mountains, near country singer Dolly Parton's birthplace. Visitors enjoy an eagle sanctuary, a country fair with antique rides, and live entertainment. The site features a hand-carved carousel and an antique steam engine. Located on Hwy 441, SE of Knoxville.\par \par Dollywood\par 1020 Dollywood Ln\par Pigeon Forge, TN 37863\par 423-656-9620\par 423-428-9494
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 When the glaciers pushed south during the Ice Age, many species of plants and animals moved into the Smoky Mountains area. Beyond the reach of the ice sheets, the varying elevations provided many different habitats for thousands of species of birds, plants, and animals. Now designated an International Biosphere Reserve, this park, located on the border between Tennessee and North Carolina, preserves a unique combination of environments that have hosted not only diverse flora and fauna but also diverse groups of people. The Cherokee Indians lived here for at least a thousand years before being displaced in the 19th century. In their place, pioneer families established homesteads and villages among the mist-shrouded valleys and hills. In the early 20th century, the logging industry began stripping the forest of its vast stands of timber. To save the remainder of the forestland, the park was created in 1934. North Carolina and Tennessee purchased the land from the residents and logging companies, then turned it over to the National Park Service. Now, over nine million visitors a year enjoy more than 500,000 acres of wilderness. \b
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\par What to see and do. \plain\f0\fs20 You should plan to spend at least a day here, and you could spend up to a week exploring the park's hidden nooks. There are two basic ways to see the highlights of the park: from your car, or from over 800 miles of hiking trails. Stretching between the Sugarlands and Oconaluftee Visitor Centers through the center of the park, the Newfound Gap Road allows drivers to view splendid mountain vistas, picnic underneath stands of old growth forest, and spot birds and wildlife along the way. Frequent roadside stops encourage stepping out for a longer look over the ridges or a short walk through the woods. Some side roads take you through major cultural areas such as Cades Cove, once a thriving mountain community. Original historic structures and pleasant meadows punctuate this 11-mile loop in the western end of the park. Road conditions can vary, so check at the visitor centers for current information. During summertime, you can count on thousands of cars along the Newfound Gap Road, often stopped in a "bear jam." It's considered wise to bring along extra engine coolant and brake fluid on hot summer days, when your car works extra hard climbing up and down the forest-covered hills.
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\par Veteran visitors and former residents insist the best way to appreciate the Smokies' vast array of natural beauties is at a slower pace and up close. Several short self-guided nature trails introduce you to the basics of plant identification. For serious hikers, many longer trails beckon you into the backcountry, where the terrain ranges from easy to difficult. Fish the area's many streams, which teem with over 50 species of fish, including trout. Fry up your rainbows, but you must let the "brookies" go. They are a protected species. Many visitors enjoy the park on horseback. At several places you can rent horses; get information from ranger stations or visitor centers about which trails allow horses. If you like to bike, rentals are available at Cades Cove. All main and side roads are open to bikes, but only four trails allow cycling. Keep an eye out for bears. Over 600 call the Smokies home, and you're best off giving them wide berth. Be sure to keep food out of their reach.
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\par No matter how you plan to see the park, your first stop should be one of the handicapped-accessible visitor centers. A wealth of information, including schedules of campfire programs, slide presentations, and ranger-led walks, awaits you. Inquire about educational programs, such as the Smoky Mountain Field School or the Great Smoky Mountains Institute. You'll find gas and food in any one of numerous small communities, such as Gatlinburg, that surround the park.\par \par Great Smoky Mountains National Park\par 107 Park Headquarters Rd\par US Hwy 441\par Gatlinburg, TN 37738\par 423-436-1200\par ___-___-____\par ___-___-____
Cherokee National Forest is located in east Tennessee. The forest comprises 630,000 acres of dense woodland territory along the Appalachian Mountains and affords opportunities to discover this scenic region as well as enjoy its recreational offerings.
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\par Over nine million visitors a year come to enjoy the camping, hiking, water sports, and other recreation offered in Cherokee National Forest. You'll find a total of 672 campsites situated in 29 unique campgrounds. Outfitters schedule white-water tours of the Ocoee, Hiwassee, Nolichucky, and French Broad Rivers, all of which flow through the forest. You'll also find 740 miles of hiking trails leading through the forest territory, including a substantial segment of the Appalachian Trail. A drive along US 64 is a great way to take in the splendor of the region and you'll find picnic sites set in scenic spots throughout the forest. The Cherokee National Forest offers swimming, great fishing, and hunting year-round. Campsites are open from April through November. Call the national forest for information concerning site availability.\par \par Cherokee National Forest\par PO Box 2010\par Cleveland, TN 37320\par 423-476-9700\par 423-338-4530\par 423-476-9721
The Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community, located just east of Gatlinburg near the Greenbrier entrance of Great Smoky National Park, is comprised of the shops, studios, and galleries of dozens of artists and craftspeople. A country road lined by shops and homes serves as the main artery of the community in which artisans sell their crafts and works of art and in some cases allow you to see the workplaces where their creations were made. The "Arts and Crafts Trolley" makes a routine circuit of the road and you can get off anywhere and browse the tree-fronted houses and shops. In many cases you will be able to see the craftspeople as they work and you will be able to ask them questions.
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\par The Buckhorn Inn, built in 1938, sits at one end of the community and offers rooms, cottages, and even houses for rental. There you'll find fine dining, fishing, and a nature trail on 35 acres of pristine woodland. It serves as an excellent base for your exploration of this nationally known artists' community. Call 423-436-4668 for information about lodging and reservations.\par \par Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community\par Hwy 321 N\par Gatlinburg, TN 37738\par 423-436-4668\par 423-436-3301\par 423-436-5009
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 To drive the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, enter the park via Airport Road south out of Gatlinburg. Before you reach the one-way drive on Cherokee Orchard, you'll notice the Noah "Bud" Ogle Place Nature Trail. Be sure to make a stop here. This 0.75-mile trail winds through an old orchard, old fields, and several original buildings once belonging to generations of the Ogle family. Unlike the buildings at Mountain Farm Museum, these are located where the Ogles built them, nestled into the hillsides and meadows.
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\par Back on the road, you'll also find several trailheads, including the Grotto Falls Trail. This easy 3-mile round trip walk leads to a waterfall. No RVs or trailers are allowed on the Roaring Fork Road, which is closed in winter. At the turn of the century, over 200 people lived in a community along the banks of the Roaring Fork creek. Today, a few log cabins and a cemetery remain. At the visitor center, pick up a booklet describing scenic stops on the five-mile tour. The drive features the "Place of a Thousand Drips," a hillside seeping water from underground springs.\par \par Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail\par 107 Park Headquarters Road\par Great Smoky Mountains National Park\par Gatlinburg, TN 37738\par 423-436-1200
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Located on the eastern edge of the park, the Cataloochee Valley Road is accessible by turning off the unpaved, 11-mile Cove Creek Road. Once you begin your descent into the valley, keep an eye out for several unrestored buildings, such as churches, schools, and homes, dotting the hillsides. At the turn of the century, this valley held almost 200 buildings, making it the largest settlement in the Smokies. Today, only a few remain. This out-of-the-way auto tour offers many sites similar to Cades Cove without the crush of people. For more information stop by the ranger station, located about three miles into the valley. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 Just before you reach the ranger station, you'll see the Cataloochee Campground. It offers 27 tent and RV sites between mid-March and the end of October. The first-come, first-served sites are $10 per night, and the stay limit is seven days. Group sites are available by mailing requests to park headquarters. Campground facilities include running water, flush toilets, picnic tables, and fire grills. Activities include fishing in the nearby Cataloochee Creek and hiking.
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\par Near the end of the paved valley road there is an auto-access horse camp. Providing access to miles of backcountry trails through the eastern section of the park, this camp has room for 28 horses and 28 people. Reserve a spot up to a month in advance by calling the backcountry office at 423-436-1231. The stay limit is seven days.\par \par Cataloochee Campground\par 107 Park Headquarters Road\par Great Smoky Mountains National Park\par Gatlinburg, TN 37738\par 423-436-1200
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 By the mid-19th century, over 100 families lived in this secluded valley. Today, several old buildings still stand along an 11-mile loop road. At the western end of the loop, you'll find a visitor center, which is open seasonal hours all year. After looking through some photographic exhibits about the Cove's original settlers, walk through the Cable Mill area. Corn is still ground here daily during the summer. The trailhead for the five-mile round trip Abrams Falls hike is close by. You may also walk the Cades Cove nature trail, which focuses on how settlers used native plants. As you bike or drive leisurely along the loop, don't miss the three churches. Their histories tell fascinating stories about schisms and tensions within this small community. Watch for deer in the meadows as you walk around houses made from hand-hewn logs. Continue back to the eastern end, where you started. You'll find a campground, ranger station, and horse stable. During summer, the stable arranges buggy and hayrides. Cades Cove is accessible only by the Little River and Laurel Creek Roads, though if you're adventurous, you can leave the area via the rough, unpaved Parson Branch and Rich Mountain Roads during March - mid-November. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 The Cades Cove campground offers 161 tent and RV sites and is open year round. For dates from May 15 through October 31, reservations can be made up to three months in advance by calling Biospherics, Inc: 800-365-CAMP. Fees are $15 per night during the reservation period and $12 per night during the self-registration months. The stay limit is seven days. There are no hookups, but running water, flush toilets, picnic tables, and fire grills are provided. For group site reservations between May 15 and October 31, call Biospherics. For dates the rest of the year, campground is first-come, first served. Activities include fishing, naturalist programs, and hiking. Services include horse and bicycle rental, a small grocery store, disposal station, and wood for sale.\par \par Cades Cove\par 107 Park Headquarters Road\par Great Smoky Mountains National Park\par Gatlinburg, TN 37738\par 423-436-1200
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Visitors to Elkmont find a ranger station and self-guiding nature trail. Located across the parking area, this 0.75-mile trail develops your ability to interpret your natural surroundings. Other activities include naturalist programs and fishing in the Little River. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 Elkmont offers 220 tent and RV sites between mid-March and early December. For dates from May 15 to October 31, reservations can be made up to three months in advance by calling Biospherics, Inc: 800-365-CAMP. Fees are $15 per night during the reservation period and $12 per night during the self-registration months. Stays are limited to seven days. For group site reservations between May 15 and October 31, call Biospherics. This campground has no hookups but provides flush toilets, running water, picnic tables, and fire grills. There is a disposal station about six miles away. Firewood is for sale.\par \par Elkmont Campground\par 107 Park Headquarters Road\par Great Smoky Mountains National Park\par Gatlinburg, TN 37738\par 423-436-1200
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Located in the far northeastern section of the park, the Cosby area is accessible from a paved road extending about a mile past the boundary. As you enter, you pass a ranger station. At the end of the road is the campground. Visitors may hike the one-mile nature trail. Other activities include fishing in Cosby Creek and naturalist programs. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging.\plain\f0\fs20 The campground offers 175 tent and RV sites between mid-March and the end of October. Reserve group sites by mailing requests to park headquarters. There are no hookups, but campers will find running water, flush toilets, picnic tables, fire grills, and a disposal station. Sites are $12 per night on a first-come, first-served basis. The stay limit is seven days.\par \par Cosby Campground\par 107 Park Headquarters Road\par Great Smoky Mountains National Park\par Gatlinburg, TN 37738\par 423-436-1200
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Visitors to the Big Creek area pass a ranger station as they enter the eastern edge of the park on an unpaved road. About a mile further down the road is the Big Creek Campground and an auto-access horse camp. Activities include fishing in Big Creek and hiking or horseback riding. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 The campground offers 12 tent-only sites between March and the end of October. The first-come, first-served sites are $10 per night, with a stay limit of seven days. Reserve group sites by mailing requests to park headquarters. Campers have access to running water, flush toilets, picnic tables, and fire grills. The horse camp has a capacity of 22 horses, 8 sites at 6 people each. Reserve spots up to a month in advance by calling the backcountry office at 423-436-1231. Horseback campers may stay a maximum of seven days.\par \par Big Creek Campground\par 107 Park Headquarters Road\par Great Smoky Mountains National Park\par Gatlinburg, TN 37738\par 423-436-1200
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Located on the Heintooga Ridge Road, Balsam Mountain Campground perches at 5,310 feet, making it the highest campground in the park. Further up the road, the Heintooga Overlook affords a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains. Close by Balsam, you'll find the Flat Creek trailhead. This 2.6-mile hike winds past the Flat Creek Falls. Walk the 0.75-mile self-guided Balsam Mountain nature trail, which explains how the forest reclaims overlogged areas. Because the road conditions can vary, check with rangers before driving up in early spring and late fall. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 The campground offers 46 tent and RV sites between May and the end of October. There are no hookups, but campers have access to running water, flush toilets, picnic tables, and fire grills. The first-come, first-served sites are $12 per night. Activities include hiking and naturalist programs.\par \par Balsam Mountain Campground\par 107 Park Headquarters Road\par Great Smoky Mountains National Park\par Gatlinburg, TN 37738\par 423-436-1200
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Located a few miles north of the Oconaluftee Visitor Center on the Newfound Gap Road, Smokemont is situated at the confluence of the Oconaluftee River and Bradley Fork. Visitors find a ranger station and horse stable. Along a 0.75-mile self-guided nature trail, you'll see instances of how human beings have impacted the land in the past. Several trailheads close to the campground encourage hiking. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 Smokemont offers 140 tent and RV sites open year round. There are no hookups, but campers have access to running water, flush toilets, picnic tables, fire grills, and a disposal station. Firewood is for sale. For dates from May 15 to October 31, reservations can be made up to five months in advance by calling Biosherics, Inc: 800-365-CAMP. Fees are $15 per night during the reservation period and $12 per night during the self-registration months. Stays are limited to seven days. Activities include fishing in the nearby streams, naturalist programs, and horseback rentals. For group site reservations May 15 to October 31, call Biospherics.\par \par Smokemont Campground\par 107 Park Headquarters Road\par Great Smoky Mountains National Park\par Gatlinburg, TN 37738\par 423-436-1200
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 The Deep Creek area is located on the park's southern boundary and three miles north of Bryson City. Visitors find a ranger station offering park information. Enjoy exciting creek tubing. Other activities include hiking and fishing. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 Deep Creek offers 108 tent and RV sites between April and the end of October. Reserve group sites by mailing requests to park headquarters. There are no hookups, but campers have access to running water, flush toilets, picnic tables, fire grills, and a disposal station. The first-come, first-served sites are $12 per night. The stay limit is seven days.\par \par Deep Creek Campground\par 107 Park Headquarters Road\par Great Smoky Mountains National Park\par Gatlinburg, TN 37738\par 423-436-1200
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 For a secluded camping experience, many visitors enjoy the solitude of the Abrams Creek area. Located on the western edge of the park, it's accessible from the Happy Valley Road running north from Chilhowee. Nearby trailheads beckon visitors deeper into the park. Other activities include fishing in Abrams Creek. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 Between March and the end of October, Abrams offers 16 sites for tents and trailers up to 12 feet. There are no hookups, but campers have access to running water, flush toilets, picnic tables, and fire grills. The first-come, first-served sites are $10 per night. The stay limit is seven days.\par \par Abrams Creek Campground\par 107 Park Headquarters Road\par Great Smoky Mountains National Park\par Gatlinburg, TN 37738\par 423-436-1200
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Located along the Foothills Parkway, which runs adjacent to the western end of the park, the Look Rock area offers panoramic views of the mountains. Visitors find a ranger station and enjoy climbing the observation tower. Other activities include hiking. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 Look Rock offers 92 tent and RV sites, which are $12 per night and is open mid-May - October. The campground is first-come, first-served. There are no hookups, but campers have access to running water, flush toilets, picnic tables, and fire grills. The stay limit is seven days.\par \par Look Rock Campground\par 107 Park Headquarters Road\par Great Smoky Mountains National Park\par Gatlinburg, TN 37738\par 423-436-1200
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Located north of Cherokee, near the intersection of the Blue Ridge Parkway with Hwy 441, the Oconaluftee Visitor Center should be your first stop if you're entering the Great Smokies from North Carolina. Open daily, the center introduces visitors to the park's resources with exhibits, publications, and information such as hiking maps. This is a good place to ask about road conditions throughout the park.
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\par Adjacent to the visitor center you'll find the Mountain Farm Museum. This open-air exhibit displays several of the park's 77 historic structures. Though most of the buildings are original, they have been moved to this site. During summer, rangers conduct living history demonstrations of former residents' ways of life before the Great Smokies became a park.
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\par Don't miss Mingus Mill, which is located just up the road from Oconaluftee. Built in 1886, the mill operates on a water-run turbine. During the summer season, a miller grinds corn into meal, which visitors can purchase. The area provides a quiet opportunity to walk around a functioning historic structure.\par \par Oconaluftee Visitor Center\par 107 Park Headquarters Road\par Great Smoky Mountains National Park\par Gatlinburg, TN 37738\par 423-436-1200
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Your first stop after entering the park on the Tennessee side should be the Sugarlands Visitor Center. Open daily, except on Christmas Day, it offers a thorough introduction to the park's varied resources. Natural history exhibits emphasize the Great Smokies rich biodiversity, while the one-mile self-guided nature trail affords a firsthand look at the interaction between human beings and their natural surroundings over time. Read through some journals kept by early naturalists. During the summer, participate in ranger programs and watch slide shows. This is a good place to collect information about road and weather conditions and to obtain backcountry permits. For a longer hike, strike out on the 8.6-mile Cove Mountain Trail.\par \par Sugarlands Visitor Center\par 107 Park Headquarters Road\par Great Smoky Mountains National Park\par Gatlinburg, TN 37738\par 423-436-1200
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Named after Thomas Lanier Clingman, Clingmans Dome is the highest point, at 6,643 feet, both in Tennessee and on the Appalachian Trail. Mr. Clingman (prospector, Civil War general, and U.S. Senator) was in a race against Dr. Elisha Mitchell to measure the highest peak in the area. Mitchell won, and Mt. Mitchell tops Clingmans Dome at 6,684 feet, the highest point east of the Mississippi.
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\par Visitors get to Clingmans Dome by turning off the Newfound Gap Road onto Clingmans Dome Road. Closed during the winter, this road twists and turns for seven miles through a spruce-fir forest until it reaches a parking lot. Along the way, note sections of thinned greenery. Around the turn of the century, the balsam wooly adelgid appeared in U.S. forests and became a serious pest attacking fir trees. From the parking lot, a half-mile steep trail leads to a lookout tower. From the top, you can see splendid views of the rolling hills (if they're not shrouded in clouds).\par \par Clingmans Dome\par 107 Park Headquarters Road\par US Hwy 441, Great Smoky Mountains National Park\par Gatlinburg, TN 37738\par 423-436-1200
Gatlinburg is located on the northern boundary of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Motels, hotels, restaurants, craft shops, and amusements line the streets here, as well as in nearby Pigeon Forge. Ski at Ober Gatlinburg.\par \par Gatlinburg\par Gatlinburg, TN
At the University of Tennessee, the Frank H. McClung Museum contains exhibits of history and art. The 100-mile Scenic Loop Drive through the Smokies starts from Knoxville. The state of Tennessee was born in the Governor Blount Mansion, a historic house built in 1792, the first frame house west of the Appalachians. It is furnished with period pieces and memorabilia of Governor Blount. Bleak House was General James Longstreet's headquarters during the 1863 siege of Knoxville. The mansion has been restored and is now open to visitors as the Confederate Memorial Hall. In the center of Knoxville is the 70-acre park that was the setting for the 1982 World's Fair. This festive area has retained a number of its attractions. Sample Knoxville's many cultural activities and the Museum of Art. Also visit the zoo and, to the north, the Museum of Appalachia, which features a complete recreation of pioneer Appalachian life.\par \par Knoxville\par Knoxville, TN\par 423-523-7263\par 800-727-8045
Located only nine miles from Cades Cove in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Townsend offers visitors genuine Tennessee mountain hospitality. In addition to hotel, motel, bed & breakfast, cabin, and camping accommodations, Townsend boasts a varied selection of restaurants and numerous arts, crafts, and antiques shops.
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\par Visitors to Townsend can arrange horseback riding trips into either Great Smoky Mountains National Park or the surrounding mountains from several stables located in the town. Local attractions include the Little River Railroad & Lumber Company Museum, and an outdoor drama entitled "Christy, The Musical," based on Catherine Marshall's epic novel \i Christy, \plain\f0\fs20 which is presented from late May to late October.
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\par The area is a prime spot for fly-fishing; try the Little River for stock fish, or head into the national park for native trout. The Little River is also the source of summer fun: at the "Y," the confluence of two mountain streams to form the Little, swimmers take advantage of the cool, clear water, and inner tube float trips down the river are also popular.
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\par If more sedate outdoor recreation is to your liking, you can play a round at the 18-hole golf course, situated within a mountain cove, or stroll through Hedgewood Gardens, where tours can be arranged by appointment. Hedgewood Gardens is also the site of Smoky Mountain Wildlife Programs.
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\par Townsend's Tuckaleechee Caverns is famous for its beautiful onyx formations and high waterfalls. Its "Big Room," of cathedral proportions, is the largest cavern room in the eastern U.S. The caverns are open from mid-March to mid-October.\par \par Townsend\par 7906 E Lamar Alexander Pkwy\par Townsend Visitor Center\par Townsend, TN 37882\par 423-448-6134\par 800-525-6834\par 423-448-9806
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 The rugged terrain of Zion, in Utah's high plateau country, is a desert hiker's paradise. Its red sandstone canyons shelter springs, waterfalls, and hanging wildflower gardens, and a variety of ecosystems, from desert to forests of pinyon and juniper, are found within the park's borders. Mormon settlers who came to the area in the 1800s named it Zion because its sculpted rocks and soaring canyon walls reminded them of a holy temple. The original Native American inhabitants also found spiritual inspiration in the jutting multicolored rocks and high canyon bluffs, and many of the names given to park features were inspired by Paiute traditions and language.
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\par Unlike the Grand Canyon, most people view Zion Canyon from the floor upward. For the past 15 million years, the North Fork of the Virgin River has been carving this canyon through the Navajo sandstone that colors its walls, and the process continues to this day.
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\par Zion is also a wildlife refuge. A peregrine falcon protection program is in place; roadrunners, golden eagles, and mule deer find sanctuary in Zion's backcountry, most of which is proposed wilderness. The park's wildlife is most active in the early morning and during the evening hours.
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\par The northern portion of the park (not shown on the map) is mostly scenic backcountry characterized by the Finger Canyons of the Kolob, but can be accessed at Exit 40 from I-15 along Kolob Canyons Road. The Kolob Canyons Visitor Center offers information on backcountry hiking and camping, and the road continues to Kolob Canyons Viewpoint, where you can see these rugged features at a distance. \b
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\par What to see and do. \plain\f0\fs20 Reaching Zion Canyon from the East Entrance requires one of the most scenic drives in the west. The Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway, which was completed in 1930 and connects the park's eastern plateaus with lower Zion Canyon, leads through two man-made tunnels, one of which is over a mile long. The landscape changes as you drive from one side of the long tunnel to the other. All you'll see are sheer canyon walls on the west side of the tunnel; on the east side you'll encounter slickrock colored in white, rose, and salmon. This road intersects with the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, which takes you past colorful, sheer cliffs almost 3,000 feet high, through the narrow canyon that is the focal point of the park. The road follows the course of the Virgin River, which winds past cottonwood, willow, and ash trees.
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\par The visitor center, located near the park's South Entrance (on the Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway), is a good place to begin your visit. A spacious exhibit room introduces you to the geology of the canyon, explaining the processes that created Zion and the special adaptations made by the plants and animals that live here. Additional exhibits display artifacts ranging from the era of the Anasazi to the canyon's Mormon settlers. Rangers are on hand to help you plan your visit, and can give invaluable information regarding trail conditions. Ranger-led hikes and other activities are often available; check posted schedules at the visitor center. The visitor center is generally open daily from 8 AM to 7 PM in summer, and from 9 AM to 5 PM the rest of the year.
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\par You can glimpse spectacular canyon views from the park's scenic drives or by taking a guided tram tour (available in the summer), but the best way to experience it is up close: hike, bike, or ride horseback through its many trails. Note that bikes and horses are only allowed on certain trails. Although much of the park's terrain is steep and treacherous, there are trails for every level and interest. The park offers some 11 miles of paved trails and over 100 miles of wilderness trails: some are easygoing, 10-minute walks, while others are designed for a backpacking trip of several days. Some of the most popular trails lead from the lodge to Emerald Pools, and from Weeping Rock into Hidden Canyon. For some of the best views of the Zion Canyon and park backcountry, hardy hikers can traverse the 14-mile West Rim Trail to Lava Point, where there are panoramic vistas and a primitive campground. Consult trail guides, which can be obtained at the visitor centers. While some of the trails are not recommended for people who have a fear of heights, several routes are handicapped-accessible, with assistance.
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\par Other park activities include technical rock climbing and horseback riding. A backcountry permit is required for overnight climbs and all climbers should check with the park concerning regulations and off-limit areas before beginning their attempts. Backcountry permits are $5.00 per person per night. Guided horseback rides are available from late March to early November and can be arranged at the lodge or through Bryce-Zion Trail Rides, Inc., 435-772-3967, or 435-679-8665.
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\par There are three campgrounds in the park; two are developed and one provides primitive sites. Backcountry camping is allowed with a permit; contact the park for more information.\par \par Zion National Park\par Springdale, UT 84767-1099\par 435-772-3256\par 435-772-3426
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Paiute lore has it that Bryce Canyon was formed when Coyote, displeased with the Legend People who lived there, turned them to stone. Today they still stand, frozen in time. According to geologists, the fantastic spires, bridges, and hoodoos of Bryce are the work of water and time on the limestone, shale, and sandstone of the Pink Cliffs at the edge of southwestern Utah's Paunsaugunt Plateau. Here, erosion caused by rain, ice, and snow runoff has created a series of amphitheaters filled with colorful, bizarre stone sculptures, and the plateau continues to wear away at the rate of a foot every fifty years or so.
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\par Ebenezer and Mary Bryce settled near what is now the town of Tropic, directly east of the Paunsaugunt Plateau, in the 1870s. For five years they tried to raise cattle and ran a sawmill, but they moved to a friendlier climate for Mary's health. By then, locals had started calling the area Bryce's Canyon, and the name stuck. It was declared a national monument in 1923.
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\par Open year-round, the park's high elevation ensures pleasant daytime summer temperatures perfect for hiking, but be prepared for the mercury to drop after the sun goes down. With a dusting of snow on its spires and pinnacles, winters at Bryce Canyon are especially beautiful. And don't miss the park by moonlight, when the fanciful landscape shows an entirely different, but no less appealing, face. No matter what time of year, the beauty changes with the light and location and all are special. \b
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\par What to see and do. \plain\f0\fs20 Stop by the visitor center near the park entrance and take in the slide show and the historical and geological exhibits. A schedule of ranger-led activities is posted there, and you can also pick up a copy of \i The Hoodoo, \plain\f0\fs20 the park paper, which provides additional visitor information. Rangers lead walking tours and offer talks on a variety of subjects throughout the summer.
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\par Drive along the park road to see the ever-changing panorama of the amphitheaters from the many overlooks. All the overlooks are along the east side of the road; park authorities suggest driving to Rainbow Points, where on clear days your view is obstructed only by the curvature of the earth, and taking in the overlooks on the return trip. Expect a 37-mile round-trip, and please note that trailers are allowed passed Sunset Point but are not allowed beyond Sunset Campground. Day-use visitors are encouraged to leave their trailers outside of the park. Spur roads lead to Bryce Point and Paria View. And don't miss Fairyland Point. It's on another spur road north of the visitor center.
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\par It is possible to see some of the beauty of Bryce Canyon without leaving the comfort of your car, but you'll miss most of the park experience if you don't get out and walk. There are over 50 miles of hiking trails through the hoodoos and arches of the amphitheaters, and they range in length and difficulty from the 1.5-mile, relatively level Bristlecone Loop, which leads past 1,500-year-old bristlecone pines, to the 22+-mile Under-the-Rim Trail that connects Bryce and Rainbow Points. At intervals, connecting trails lead from overlooks to the Under-the-Rim trail, making it a good choice for day hikes as well. A number of trails originate in the visitor center area, near historic Bryce Canyon Lodge. Most of these are between one-and-a-half and five-and-a-half miles long and wind through areas named Wall Street and the Queens Garden. All but the Rim Trail descend into the amphitheater, so remember that you have to climb the same distance and elevation to reach the trailhead at the end of your hike. Wear sturdy shoes and carry plenty of water. In addition, horseback riding tours can be arranged at the lodge. Many of the spur roads are closed in winter so they may be used as cross-country ski and snowshoe trails. Snowmobiling is not allowed inside the park.
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\par The area around Sunrise and Sunset Points contain two campgrounds with over 200 sites between them, available on a first-come, first-served basis. A restaurant, gift shop, and U.S. Post Office are located at the lodge which is open April through October.
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\par The visitor center is open all year, with the exception of Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day, from 8 AM to 4:30 PM, with hours extended in the summer. One loop in the North Campground is open during the winter, and the main park road is kept open year-round.
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\par In nearby Tropic, the Bryce's homestead cabin has been restored and is open to the public. Kodachrome Basin State Park, less than twenty miles east, is packed with colorful hoodoos and interesting chimney formations. Bryce Canyon is within a five-hour drive of ten other National Park Service Units, including Zion, Canyonlands, and Arches National Parks.\par \par Bryce Canyon National Park\par PO Box 170001\par Bryce Canyon, UT 84717\par 435-834-5322\par 435-834-5215
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 A crimson and gold panorama of graceful arches, spires, and fins set against an azure desert sky rewards visitors to Arches National Park. These massive rock formations, some fanciful, some bizarre, some breathtakingly beautiful, were carved by hundreds of thousands of years of water, ice, and exfoliation into the Entrada sandstone that formed over thick salt beds over 150 million years ago. As the salt dissolved, it warped and cracked the sandstone into vertical ridges that eroded into fins. Repeated freezing and thawing chipped away at the fins, resulting in windows and arches. The process continues today, as rockfalls destroy older formations and new ones emerge from eroding fins. Set aside as a national monument in 1929 and designated a national park in 1971, Arches protects over 70,000 acres of desert landscape and over 2,000 arches, one of the greatest concentrations on earth.
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\par Ancestral Puebloans and Fremont peoples hunted here and later settlers attempted ranching, which significantly affected the delicate desert ecosystem. Petroglyphs of men on horseback, the handiwork of more modern Utes, are visible near the trail to Delicate Arch, just past the Wolfe Ranch, which is all that remains of the small homestead of John Wesley Wolfe. \b
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\par What to see and do. \plain\f0\fs20 Before setting out on the 48-mile round trip scenic drive through the park, stop by the visitor center near the entrance station to acquaint yourself with the geology and history of the park. A short audiovisual presentation is shown every half-hour, and a self-guided tour will introduce you to the geology of the area. The Canyonlands Natural History Association operates a bookstore in the visitor center. Make reservations and purchase tickets for the popular, ranger-led tour through the Fiery Furnace, and obtain backcountry use permits here. There is no food concession in the park, but drinking water is available at the visitor center and at Devils Garden. Balanced Rock and Devils Garden also provide picnicking facilities.
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\par The scenic drive though the park winds over twenty miles each way, and extends as far as the Devils Garden Trailhead. You can see plenty of awe-inspiring scenery from your car window, but to experience the park to its fullest, and to see some of its most famous formations, you must get out and take one of the many short trails that lead from overlooks and pullouts along the route. For instance, you can take in all of Balanced Rock, a 55-foot-high boulder perched on a slender 73-foot pedestal, from the nearby parking area, but a mere 0.2-mile stroll will take you to its very base. Farther along, sights such as the Windows, Double Arch, and the Fiery Furnace, a maze of close-fitted fins that glow a fiery vermilion as the sun sets, can be seen from your car, but again, you'll probably want to get a closer look on foot. Some features, such as famous Delicate Arch and Landscape Arch, with its seemingly impossible 306-foot span, require moderate hikes to view at close range. If you decide to hike for any amount of time, remember to take plenty of water and protect yourself from the sun. The formations are at their most beautiful when morning or evening shadows play about them, causing dazzling color changes. The midday sun washes out the colors and is often too hot for any extended activities.
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\par The popular Devils Garden Campground fills to capacity every night between March and October; often all sites are claimed by mid-morning. Park authorities suggest an early check-in. Two tent-only sites are available for groups of eleven or more. Reservations for group sites are recommended and can be made by contacting the Canyonlands National Park Central Reservation Office, 801-259-4351. Mail inquiries to 2282 S. West Resources Blvd., Moab, UT 84532 or fax to 435-259-4285. The Devils Garden Trail, which leads to seven named arches including Landscape and Double O, begins near the campground. Except in winter, rangers present informative campfire programs at Devils Garden Campground.
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\par Backcountry hiking is allowed, although there are no developed trails. Cross-country hikers must take care not to tread on the fragile cryptobiotic crust they will find along their route. It is an essential part of the desert ecosystem, and is easily destroyed. Overnight trips require a park permit, and strict rules apply as to where camps can be made. Experienced rock climbers can test their mettle on some of the formations in the park, but you should consult a ranger before you begin. Most named features are off-limits to climbers. Bikes are permitted on park roads, but are not allowed on any trails. There are no specific bike trails at Arches.
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\par Klondike Bluffs, accessible by an unpaved, fair-weather road, is a lesser visited area in the northwestern quadrant of the park. From Klondike Bluffs, a four-wheel-drive-only road stretches south past Eye of the Whale Arch to Balanced Rock and the main park road.
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\par The park is open at all times, year-round. The visitor center is open from 8 AM to 4:30 PM daily with extended hours from April to October. The visitor center is closed on Christmas. Lodging and restaurants are available nearby in Moab.\par \par Arches National Park\par PO Box 907\par Moab, UT 84532\par 435-259-8161\par 435-259-5279\par 435-259-8341
The largest national forest in Utah, Dixie covers almost two million acres of land in the southern part of the state, ranging from red rock canyon country and desert ecosystems to aspen- and conifer-forested mountain elevations topping 11,000 feet. Dixie National Forest lies adjacent to three national parks and two national monuments, all showcasing the scenic wonders of the area. Some of Dixie's attractions rival the parklands', especially the Red Canyon, smaller cousin to Bryce, with spectacularly carved hoodoos and spires contained in an amphitheater of red sandstone. Other attractions include Boulder Mountain's scenic lakes, Navajo Lake and nearby Cascade Falls (source of the North Fork of the Virgin River, which carved Zion Canyon), Pine Valley Mountain and popular Whipple Trail, and Hells Backbone Bridge, originally built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1933, which offers breathtaking views of the Box-Death Hollow Wilderness.
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\par The forest offers a wide variety of recreational opportunities, from rough wilderness backpacking and horseback trips to comfortable resort accommodations. Lakes, reservoirs, and streams offer plenty of water-related activities, including rewarding trout fishing, and wildlife abounds, tempting both nature photographers and game hunters. Hikers and equestrians will find over 600 miles of trails augmented by more than a thousand miles of old timber roads to provide access to backcountry locations. In winter, cross-country skiers and snowmobilers make use of some forest roads and trails and the forest works cooperatively with adjacent state parks to maintain some of their trails, as well. Downhill skiing is available at Brian Head.
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\par There are 83,000 acres of wilderness in Dixie, divided into three areas: Pine Valley, Ashdown Grove, and Box-Death Hollow. Both backcountry hiking and horseback riding are allowed at Pine Valley and Ashdown Grove, but Box-Death Hollow's trails are too steep and rugged for pack animals. They are restricted to foot travel only.
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\par Dixie maintains 26 developed campgrounds and five picnic sites that offer running water and restrooms. There are also group camping and picnic facilities available, and these can be reserved by contacting the forest in advance of your visit. Some forest campgrounds accept reservations; call 800-280-CAMP for more information.\par \par Dixie National Forest\par 82 North 100 East\par Cedar City, UT 84720\par 435-865-3700\par 435-865-3791
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Set amid Ponderosa pines a mere 100 yards from the rim, Bryce Canyon Lodge provides hotel and dining accommodations and a range of services for park visitors. The lodge, completed in 1925, was designed by master architect Gilbert Stanley Underwood and built of local timber and stone to reflect the rustic style of the era. It has been designated as a National Historic Landmark and has been meticulously restored, right down to replicas of the original hickory furniture. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 You can rent a standard hotel room or suite, or you can opt for one of the lodge's "western" cabins. The restaurant provides a varied and reasonably priced menu and serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It's best to make reservations for dinner. If you give the kitchen 12 hours advance notice, they'll whip up a boxed lunch for you to carry on your hike. The lodge is also the place to arrange guided park tours and horseback rides, and it hosts a variety of ranger-led activities. There are a post office and a gift shop in the lodge, as well.
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\par To make reservations, contact AmFac Parks and Resorts, Inc., 14001 E Iliff Ave., Suite 600, Aurora, CO 80014, 303-297-2757.\par \par Bryce Canyon Lodge\par Bryce Canyon, UT 84717\par 303-297-2757\par 303-297-3175
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Visitors to Bryce Canyon may miss Fairyland Point on entering the park because it is just inside the park boundary about one mile before the entrance station. You'll have one of the best views in the park from this overlook, and a short walk into the canyon will put you right in the midst of some of the most fanciful hoodoos Bryce has to offer. Should you choose to hike the eight-mile Fairyland Loop Trail, formations such as the Sunken Ship and Tower Bridge await you. The trail descends 900 feet into the amphitheater, then climbs back out again and connects with the Rim Trail and points south.
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\par To reach Fairyland Point, take a left turn onto the spur road just inside the park boundary. If you get to the entrance station, you've gone too far. Fairyland Point is at the end of this road, a little more than a mile's distance.\par \par Fairyland Point\par Bryce Canyon National Park\par Bryce Canyon, UT 84717\par 435-834-5322
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Sunrise Point serves as the trailhead for the Queen's Garden Trail, the easiest trek below the rim. It descends 320 feet into the Bryce Amphitheater past many hoodoos, including one that bears an uncanny resemblance to Queen Victoria. Sunrise Point is also an access point for the Rim Trail, which stretches five and a half miles from Fairyland Point to Bryce Point. The Peekaboo Loop, which also serves as the park's horse trail, has one of its trailheads at Sunrise Point.\par \par Sunrise Point\par Bryce Canyon National Park\par Bryce Canyon, UT 84717\par 435-834-5322
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Start hiking the Navajo Loop Trail from Sunset Point, down 520 feet into a steep canyon that leads to Wall Street, where two huge Douglas firs reach for the sky and Thors Hammer looms precariously above you. The entire loop is only one and a half miles long, but is considered fairly strenuous due to the elevation changes. From Sunset Point you can also access the Peekaboo Trail (the only horse path in the park) and the Rim Trail, which extends for five and a half miles between Fairyland Point and Bryce Point.
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\par Despite its name, you won't get a typical view of the sunset from Sunset Point--the overlook faces east--but it is a wonderful place to view the play of lengthening evening shadows in the amphitheater.\par \par Sunset Point\par Bryce Canyon National Park\par Bryce Canyon, UT 84717\par 435-834-5322
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 From Bryce Point, on the southern rim of the Bryce Amphitheater, you'll have a panoramic view of the northern half of the park to the Black Mountains in the distant northeast. It is one of the best places to watch the sun rise over the park, a sight not to be missed. This overlook is the southern terminus for the Rim Trail and the northern trailhead for the Under-the-Rim Trail that winds to the southern end of the park where it climbs to Rainbow Point. The Peekaboo Loop Trail, the only horse trail in the park, has one of its main trailheads at Sunrise Point.
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\par To drive to Bryce Point, veer to the left just at Inspiration Point, and turn left when the road divides. The right hand turn will take you to Paria View, with an equally spectacular view to the south.\par \par Bryce Point\par Bryce Canyon National Park\par Bryce Canyon, UT 84717\par 435-834-5322
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 From Rainbow Point, at 9,115 feet above sea-level the highest elevation in the park, you can see for a hundred miles 90% of the time. On a really clear day, and there are many, your view is obstructed only by the curvature of the earth, and you can see all the way to New Mexico. From here you can clearly see the plateaus of the "Grand Staircase," a series of colorful cliffs descending to the Kaibab Plateau and the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. Rainbow Point is the southernmost stop on the park road. From there, a trail leads to nearby Yovimpa Point, which also has a breathtaking view. Rainbow Point also serves as the trailhead for the short Bristlecone Loop, which leads you to ancient bristlecone pines, some as old as 1,500 years, and for the longer, much more strenuous Riggs Spring Loop, which winds through Yovimpa Pass and around the Promontory. The Under-the-Rim Trail from Bryce Point ends at Rainbow Point.\par \par Rainbow Point\par Bryce Canyon National Park\par Bryce Canyon, UT 84717\par 435-834-5322
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Situated close to the visitor center and the rim of the Bryce Amphitheater, the North Campground provides a convenient base of operations for exploring the park. It is close to the Rim Trail and the southern head of the Fairyland Loop. Several other trails into the amphitheater begin at nearby Sunrise Point. There is a general store with a coin laundry and showers nearby Sunrise Point, and the historic Bryce Canyon Lodge, with its shops, restaurant, and other visitor amenities, is within walking distance. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 The North Campground offers 105 gravel sites (20 pull-through and some shaded) on a first-come, first-served basis. There are no hookups available, but a dump station serving both North and Sunset campgrounds is located nearby and is open during non-freezing weather. Campsites can be occupied for a maximum of 14 days for a fee of $10 per day. One loop of the campground is kept open during the winter.\par \par North Campground\par Bryce Canyon National Park\par Bryce Canyon, UT 84717\par 435-834-5322
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Sunset Campground is across the road and south of Sunset Point and the historic Bryce Canyon Lodge. It provides a convenient base for exploring the park, with easy access to the scenic park road and several trails into the canyon, including the Navajo Loop Trail and the Peekaboo Trail. The Rim Trail also passes close to Sunset Campground. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 Sunset Campground offers 111 mostly shaded sites (50 pull-through, no hookups) on a first-come, first-served basis from May to mid-October. Dates may be altered according to the weather. Only restrooms and a dump station are provided, but nearby there is a camp store with a coin laundry and showers. Campers may stay a maximum of 14 days, at a daily rate of $10. Groups may reserve space in the group campsite at Sunset Campground; contact the park for more information.\par \par Sunset Campground\par Bryce Canyon National Park\par Bryce Canyon, UT 84717\par 435-834-5322
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Stanley Underwood, architect of historic lodges at Bryce Canyon and Yosemite National Parks, also designed Zion Lodge. His original lodge was built by the Union Pacific Railroad in 1925, but was completely destroyed by fire in 1966. The current lodge was rebuilt almost immediately, and in 1986 its facade was restored to conform to Underwood's original plans.
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\par In addition to motel rooms, cabins, and suites, Zion Lodge features a restaurant serving basic American fare for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, a snack bar (closed in winter), a post office counter, and a gift shop. You can also arrange horseback riding trips and tram tours at the lodge, and a number of ranger-led activities originate here. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 Zion Lodge features 75 motel rooms with queen beds, full baths, and private porches, 40 western cabins with double beds, full baths, stone fireplaces, and private porches, and six deluxe suites. Prices range from an off-season low of $54 to a summer-season high of $106. For reservations or more information, call 303-297-2757.
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\par Note: It is wise to reserve rooms at the lodge as far in advance of your trip as possible, as it is the only lodging available in the park, and a very popular site.\par \par Zion Lodge\par Zion National Park\par Springdale, UT 84767\par 303-297-2757\par 435-772-3213
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 In Upper Zion Canyon, space between cliffs narrows to as little as 40 feet in some spots, and the stream covers the width of the canyon bed. The trail begins at the north end of the Scenic Drive and continues upstream for several miles through a red sandstone gorge and past natural arch formations and grottos. You may find yourself wading in the Virgin River, sometimes to chest level, for part of this hike. The water temperature in summer is comfortable, although the current can be swift in places and the rocky river bed can be difficult to negotiate. The stream is only passable during the summer season when the water level is low. However, sudden storms can make the trip extremely hazardous. \b Warning: Be sure to check trail conditions with park rangers before setting out.\plain\f0\fs20
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\par About a mile and a half into the Narrows, you can make a side trip into Orderville Canyon, which is remarkably similar to the Narrows, except the stream that runs through is much shallower, and there are fewer fellow hikers to contend with.
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\par If you're planning to hike all the way through the Narrows, you will need to obtain a permit from the park. Rangers suggest you begin the strenuous, 16-mile trip from the northern trailhead, outside the park (contact rangers for directions). This way you'll be moving downstream, but it will still take you 12 hours or so. Most hikers camp along the way, breaking it into a two-day excursion which requires a permit. Day hikers do not need a permit when hiking from the Riverside Walk upstream. Day hikers may also hike from the north end to the Riverside Walk. A permit is required.\b
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\par Warning: Flash floods are possible through the Narrows. Do not attempt the hike if there is any threat of storm, or if rangers have closed the Narrows due to the possibility of high water.\plain\f0\fs20 \par \par The Narrows\par Zion National Park\par Springdale, UT 84767\par 435-772-3256\par 435-772-3426
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 The trail to Hidden Canyon begins near Weeping Rock, a rock alcove with dripping springs and hanging gardens of wildflowers, and leads to a narrow hanging canyon. This is one of Zion's more strenuous hikes: it is steep and parts of it are cut directly into the cliff face. Chains are available in places for those whose footing is unsure. The hike to the mouth of the canyon is about two miles round-trip, but you can continue following the usually dry streambed into the canyon itself to a small natural arch. The stream becomes active after rainstorms or during spring runoff, forming a waterfall at the mouth of the canyon. \b
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\par Note:\plain\f0\fs20 Winter conditions make this trail impassable. Dates given here are approximate; check with the park for up-to-date information.\par \par Hidden Canyon\par Zion National Park\par Springdale, UT 84767\par 435-772-3256\par 435-772-3426
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 The trail to the 5,785-foot-high summit of Angels Landing is strenuous and not recommended for those who have a fear of heights. It begins at the Grotto Picnic Area by the Scenic Drive and ascends 1,500 feet to the top. The trail gradually narrows as the paved part ends, and you have to negotiate the last half mile along a ridge with steep dropoffs on either side, so caution is advised. Chains are provided in spots for safety.
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\par This hike is renowned as one of the most spectacular in the entire national park system. The breathtaking, panoramic view of Zion Canyon from the summit is hard-won, but well worth the trip. \b
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\par Warning:This trail is steep and strenuous, and should never be attempted if there is snow or ice present. Dates given here are approximate. If you are unsure of trail conditions, consult a ranger before setting out.\plain\f0\fs20 \par \par Angels Landing\par Zion National Park\par Springdale, UT 84767\par 435-772-3256\par 435-772-3426
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 South Campground is adjacent to the park's south entrance off of the Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway, which branches off into the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. It is also within easy reach of Watchman, Zion's only other developed campground.
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\par The Zion Nature Center is located near South Campground and offers a Junior Ranger Program for children from approximately June to September.
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\par The Virgin River and the park visitor center, which is open year-round, are also located nearby. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 South Campground offers 140 tent and RV sites without hookups. Other services and amenities include picnic tables, tap water, a dump site, and restrooms. Stays are limited to 14 days and sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. The camping fee is $10 per night; call park headquarters for updated information.
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\par Zion Lodge is located further north along the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, and offers a number of amenities including a restaurant, snack bar (in summer), and a gift shop.\par \par South Campground\par Zion National Park\par Springdale, UT 84767\par 435-772-3256\par 435-772-3426
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Watchman Campground is located just inside the south park entrance near Springdale, UT, in the shadow of 6,545-foot-high Watchman Peak. From the Watchman trailhead just east of the campground's registration station, you can ascend 370 feet to a lookout spot below the summit. You'll be rewarded with a scenic view of lower Zion Canyon and the town of Springdale. The 2.0-mile round trip takes about two hours to complete, and an early start is recommended to avoid the sun and heat of the day. Rangers lead hikes on this trail during the high season.
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\par Zion Nature Center, just north of South Campground and the visitor center, open year-round, is also nearby. The Zion Nature Center offers a junior ranger program for kids 6-12 Memorial Day to Labor Day weekends.\b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 Watchman Campground offers 229 sites without hookups year-round. About 185 of the sites are for tents or RVs, the others are tent-only. Other amenities include picnic tables, tap water, a dump site, and restrooms. Stays are limited to 14 days and sites are available generally on a first-come, first-served basis. The camping fee is $10 per night; call park headquarters for updated information.
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\par Zion Lodge is located to the north of the campground along Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. There you will find a restaurant, a snack bar (in season), and a gift shop.\par \par Watchman Campground\par Zion National Park\par Springdale, UT 84767\par 435-772-3256\par 435-772-3426
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 At an elevation of 7,890 feet, Lava Point provides panoramic views of Dixie National Forest and the Pink Cliffs to the north and northeast, the Narrows to the east, and the monoliths of Zion Canyon proper to the southeast. Located off a rough spur road off Kolob Terrace Road (turn north off Hwy 9 at Virgin, west of Springdale), Lava Point is remote from both main park units, Zion and Kolob Canyons. Its small, primitive campground is the only camping facility near the Kolob Canyons unit, however.
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\par Lava Point lies at the northern end of the West Rim Trail, which makes its way over Horse Pasture Plateau. It's a strenuous hike with long dropoffs, and a trip to the southern trailhead at the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive Grotto Picnic Area should not be attempted in one day during the summer. Along the way, you'll be treated to excellent views of canyons and isolated mesas. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 There is no fee for this campground, which offers six tent and RV sites (no hookups), on a first-come, first-served basis. Sites are available generally between Memorial Day and Labor Day. No water is available, although there are picnic tables, fire grates, and pit toilets. Because the campground is so remote and so small there is no way to communicate with them.\par \par Lava Point Campground\par Zion National Park\par Springdale, UT 84767\par 435-772-3256\par 435-772-3426
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Before you begin your drive into the heart of Arches National Park to see sights such as Balanced Rock and Delicate Arch, stop by the Visitor Center, located just beyond the entrance station. Rangers will be happy to help you plan your visit, whether you are staying hours or days. An introductory audiovisual program is shown every half-hour and geological and historical exhibits are on display. Pick up a detailed guide to the overlooks, arches, and other features along the park road. Guides to park hiking trails are available here, too. This is the place to sign up for the popular ranger-led hike through the Fiery Furnace, and backcountry hikers should register and obtain their permits here, as well.
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\par The Canyonlands Natural History Association offers an extensive selection of books, maps, and other publications for sale on site. Picnic facilities, restrooms, and drinking water are available at the visitor center. To familiarize yourself with the desert flora and fauna you'll see in the park, take time to stroll the visitor center's self-guided 0.2-mile-long Desert Nature Trail.
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\par The visitor center is open from 8 AM to 4:30 PM daily with extended hours from April to October. It is closed on Christmas.\par \par Park Headquarters\par PO Box 907\par Arches National Park\par Moab, UT 84532\par 435-259-8161\par 435-259-5279\par 435-259-8341
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Devils Garden Campground is located at the end of the main park road through Arches National Park. From here, you can hike the Devils Garden Trail that winds past seven large arches, including Double O Arch and the 306-foot span of Landscape Arch, and numerous smaller arches, fins, and sandstone formations. Another trail leading south from the campground will take you to Sand Dune Arch and Broken Arch. Devils Garden Amphitheater is the site of nightly ranger-led programs during most of the year. \b \par \par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 Devils Garden Campground offers 52 paved sites (no hookups) available year-round on a first-come, first-served basis. Flush toilets and drinking water are available year-round. Campers may stay a maximum of seven days, at a rate of $10 per day. \par \par There are two walk-in campsites (tents only), which may be reserved for groups of eleven or more people. To make reservations or obtain additional information, call Canyonlands National Park Central Reservation Office, 435-259-4351. Mail inquiries to 2282 S. West Resources Blvd., Moab, UT 84532 or fax to 435-259-4285.\par \par Devils Garden Campground fills to capacity every night between April and October, often by mid-morning. Park authorities suggest an early check-in. Other campgrounds, lodging facilities, and restaurants are available in the nearby community of Moab, to the south of the park.\par \par Devils Garden Campground\par PO Box 907\par Arches National Park\par Moab, UT 84532\par 435-259-8161\par 435-259-5279\par 435-259-8341
the south of the park.\par \par Devils Garden Campground\par PO Box 907\par Arches National Park\par Moab, UT 84532\par 435-259-8161\par 435-259-5279\par 435-259-8341
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 At about the midway point of your drive through the park, just north of Balanced Rock, you'll reach the turnoff for the Windows Section of the park. This concentration of massive arches can be viewed from the parking lot, but is best seen at close range. A loop trail leading east from the parking lot will take you past North Window (a 93-foot span, 51 feet high) and South Window (105 feet wide and 66 feet high), as well as smaller Turret Arch, set high in a massive sandstone fin. Another short trail leads north from the parking area to lovely Double Arch. These twinned arches are best viewed from directly beneath their shared span.\par \par Windows Section\par PO Box 907\par Arches National Park\par Moab, UT 84532\par 435-259-8161\par 435-259-5279\par 435-259-8341
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 This warren of deeply eroded sandstone fins offers hikers a maze filled with spires, arches, and many dead-ends. Named for the intense color that plays on the rock when the sun is low on the horizon, Fiery Furnace is so tricky that visitors are encouraged to join a ranger-led hike of 2-3 hours, offered twice daily in season. You must reserve a spot for this three-hour tour in person at the visitor center, no more than 48 hours prior to the scheduled hike. These walks are very popular and tend to fill up quickly so inquire at the visitors center about the next available openings. There is a fee for the walks. The closely set fins provide plenty of shade and blessed respite from the searing sun on bright summer days.
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\par If you'd rather not venture into the labyrinth, you can get a good view of it from Fiery Furnace Viewpoint, along the main park road south of the Devils Garden Campground.\par \par Fiery Furnace\par PO Box 907\par Arches National Park\par Moab, UT 84532\par 435-259-8161\par 435-259-5279\par 435-259-8341
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 One of the best known features of the park, Delicate Arch has been adopted by the state of Utah as its unofficial symbol. Accessible by a three-mile-round-trip trail that begins at the Wolfe Ranch and crosses Salt Wash via a bridge, Delicate Arch, with a height of 45 feet and a width of 33 feet, is perched on the edge of a canyon. The La Sal Mountains, often snow-capped, rise in the distance. The trail to Delicate Arch is one of the most scenic in the park, but there is no water along the route and no shade. Be sure to carry more water than you think you'll need, and wear sunscreen and a hat.
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\par If you don't feel up to the moderately strenuous hike, drive a little more than a mile past Wolfe Ranch to the end of the road, where you can see Delicate Arch in the distance. For a slightly closer view, hike up the short, steep trail that begins at the parking area.
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\par The best time to see Delicate Arch is when the setting sun casts shadows to the east and paints the sandstone with a golden glow.\par \par Delicate Arch\par PO Box 907\par Arches National Park\par Moab, UT 84532\par 435-259-8161\par 435-259-5279\par 435-259-8341
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 At 306 feet, Landscape Arch is one of the longest self-supporting rock spans on earth, although how long it can remain standing is subject to debate. In 1991, the arch shed a mass of rock 60 feet wide and 11 feet long, which rendered its slender span even more precariously thin. For the time being, it still rises 106 feet from the desert floor.
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\par The Devils Garden Trail, which begins near the campground and winds through a great concentration of arches, fins, and other sandstone features, is also the route to Landscape Arch. From the trailhead to Landscape Arch and back is approximately two miles, but the trail extends from there to Double O Arch and Dark Angel, occasionally traversing narrow ledges with steep drop-offs on both sides. At Double O Arch, you can opt to take a primitive trail that will loop back to Landscape Arch through Fin Canyon. This loop trail is five miles, portions of which are steep and rocky. Don't attempt if the rock is icy or snowy; use caution if summer rains have "slicked" up the rock. There is water available at the Devils Garden Trailhead during spring, summer, and early fall. Be sure you fill up your water bottle or canteen there and bring plenty of water along with you, as there is none available on the trail itself. Wear sunscreen and a hat to protect against the sun.\par \par Landscape Arch\par PO Box 907\par Arches National Park\par Moab, UT 84532\par 435-259-8161\par 435-259-5279\par 435-259-8341
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 For a glimpse at the life of a desert pioneer, visit the homestead of John Wesley Wolfe near the trailhead for Delicate Arch. Wolfe was injured in the Civil War and came west seeking a desert environment he hoped would prove beneficial to his recovery. He found a spring high in the rocks near Salt Wash, and established his ranch at the site, where there was grass to raise stock. He lived here with family members for 20 years. The ranch was later used as a line camp for cattlemen and a grazing area for sheep. The sheep and cattle have changed the native grasslands. A log cabin, built by Wolfe's family in 1906, is still standing at the site; a short hike will take you to petroglyphs of horses and bighorn sheep, the work of Ute Indians.\par \par Wolfe Ranch\par PO Box 907\par Arches National Park\par Moab, UT 84532\par 435-259-8161\par 435-259-5279\par 435-259-8341
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 The popular, self-guided trail to beautiful Weeping Rock is also one of Zion's easiest. This fairly short, steep hike (there is a 100-foot elevation change) winds for a mere quarter mile to a grotto nestled below a shelf of shale. When rainfall that has taken dozens of years to pass through more than 2,000 feet of Navajo sandstone hits this impermeable layer of shale, it seeps out over the lip of the outcropping, creating a glistening curtain of water droplets. The spring is adorned with moss and lovely hanging gardens in spring and summer, making it well worth the hike. Signs identify trees, flowers, and other plants along the path. \b
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\par Note: Winter conditions make this trail impassable.\plain\f0\fs20 Dates given here are approximate; consult the park for up-to-date information.\par \par Weeping Rock\par Zion National Park\par Springdale, UT 84767\par 435-772-3256\par 435-772-3426
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Hikers can choose two different trails to these three spring-fed pools a short way from Zion Lodge. The trail to the lower pool is accessible to people with disabilities, with some assistance, and is an easy, paved path. Waterfalls and greenery adorn these cliff-face oases, and photographers often capture lofty canyon walls reflected in the pools' surfaces. Sheer red sandstone towers a thousand feet above the upper pool, which also boasts a pristine white sand beach, but don't be tempted to take a dip. Swimming and wading are prohibited in all three pools.\par \par Emerald Pools\par Zion National Park\par Springdale, UT 84767\par 435-772-3256\par 435-772-3426
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Get a hawk's-eye view of Zion Canyon and other scenic wonders of the southwest on Zion Canyon Theatre's enormous Cinemax screen. The 37-minute film "Zion Canyon--Treasure of the Gods" tells the fictional story of a legendary treasure and traces human interaction with Zion Canyon from the time of the Anasazi to the present day. The film intersperses historical information with breathtaking aerial canyon views, and is shown on a screen 60 feet high and 82 feet wide. Enhanced by a state-of-the-art eight-track digital sound system, it features a thrilling rock-climbing sequence (filmed outside the park) and a terrifying flash flood as it takes viewers to hidden canyon recesses. In addition, the film includes scenes of Bryce Canyon, Arches, Monument Valley, Mesa Verde, Dead Horse Point, and Canyon de Chelly. "Zion Canyon--Treasure of the Gods" provides an informative and exciting introduction to Zion Canyon and the southwest.
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\par Located in an entertainment complex directly south of the entrance to Zion National Park in Springdale, Utah, the six-story theater (three of the stories are underground) shows the film numerous times daily between 11 AM and 7 PM. The complex was built to complement the scenic beauty of its 11-acre site along the Virgin River, and includes shops, food services, an express photo facility, an ATM, restrooms, and telephones in addition to the theater. After you see the film, stroll through the bookstore (managed by the Natural Area Association) or the art gallery, or shop for gifts and Native American jewelry before making your way into Zion Canyon to see its wonders firsthand.\par \par Zion Canyon Theatre\par Hwy 9\par Springdale, UT 84767\par 435-772-2400
When a team from \i National Geographic \plain\f0\fs20 came to study this area in 1949, they were so impressed by the variety of colorful rock formations set against the deep azure of the desert sky that they called the area "Kodachrome Flat." With the approval of Kodak, this state park due east of Bryce Canyon National Park retained its "brand name." You'll find something more than carved sandstone here; the park boasts a number of rock "chimneys" or "sand pipes," formed, it is believed, when ancient geysers filled with sediment from layers of feldspar, quartz, calcite, and clay that lay beneath the Entrada sandstone through which they erupted. Today, the sandstone has eroded away, leaving the harder rock plugs standing as spires that rise six to 170 feet above the desert floor.
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\par This desert park is best visited in early spring, when blooming cacti and wildflowers augment the already-bursting color palette, or in the late autumn, when the air is crisp and temperatures moderate. Winter brings a dusting of snow, which deepens the park's vivid hues even more.
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\par Whenever you visit, you'll find the modern campground, with its 27 paved sites, open for business. There are no hookups available, but there are modern restrooms, hot showers, and a dump station located on site. Camping is limited to 14 days per stay, and sites can be reserved in advance.
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\par If you'd rather not hoof it yourself on park trails, a park concessionaire can arrange a horseback riding trip for you. Trailhead Station, a general store on site, rents horses and sells groceries and camping supplies.
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\par Kodachrome Basin is a convenient base of operations for exploring the southern Utah landscape of ghost towns, canyons, and red rocks. \par \par Kodachrome Basin State Park\par PO Box 238\par Cannonville, UT 84718\par 435-679-8562\par 435-679-8543
Moab is a great base for exploring the surrounding spectacular natural areas. Outfitters offer guided tours by mountain bike, horseback, river raft, cross-country ski, jeep, or helicopter. At Dead Horse Point State Park, enjoy fantastic panoramic views of Canyonlands, camping, and hang gliding. For dinosaur lovers, Dan O'Laurie Canyon Country Museum has exhibits on the archeology, geology, and paleontology of the region. To the north off US 191, check out the Mill Canyon Dinosaur Trail, Sauropod Dinosaur Tracksite, and Potash Road Dinosaur Track. The Moab Slickrock Bike Trail, one of the nation's best, offers a challenging loop ride amid outstanding scenery. The Kokopelli Mountain Bike Trail covers 140 miles between Moab and Grand Junction, Colorado.\par \par Moab\par Moab, UT
\b Overview\plain\f0\fs20 : Located at the northern end of Zion Canyon, just north of the Temple of Sinawava, this trail follows the path of the Virgin River for a two-mile round trip. Riverside Walk's paved path presents a relatively easy hike, as its total ascent tops out at only 57 feet. Where the pavement ends, you may choose to continue into The Narrows, where aligning cliffs at some points close to within 40 feet. Take note that The Narrows is for the true adventurer, as hikers to this area might find themselves wading chest deep in the cold waters of the Virgin River. Riverside Walk is accessible to disabled people with some assistance. \b Warning: Be sure to check trail conditions with park rangers before setting out, as the terrain presents a potential for falling ice, slippery conditions, and flash floods.\plain\f0\fs20 \par \par Riverside Walk\par Zion National Park\par Springdale, UT 84767\par 435-772-3256\par 435-772-3426
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Colonial National Historical Park commemorates the beginning and end of Great Britain's dominance of the thirteen colonies. Historic Jamestown preserves the original site of the 1607 Jamestown colony. On the other side of the peninsula, visit Yorktown Battlefield, where General Cornwallis surrendered to General Washington's upstart colonial army on October 19, 1781, "the day the world turned upside down." The Colonial Parkway, a 23-mile road closed to commercial traffic, connects the two sites.
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\par Southeast of Colonial National Historical Park, Cape Henry Memorial at Fort Story in Virginia Beach marks the first settlers' landing spot. \b
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\par What to see and do. \plain\f0\fs20 You may see either site first, but think about starting at Jamestown. After you pay an entrance fee at the Jamestown Entrance Station, watch the 15-minute film about Jamestown history. You can also look at an extensive collection of 17th-century artifacts gleaned from the site. Outside, guided tours lead you through the ruined foundations of original buildings and monuments to the settlers' way of life. You may also tour on your own. Look for the Old Church Tower, which was built in 1639. It's the only original structure left. If you happen to visit the weekend closest to May 13, you won't want to miss the special tours and demonstrations of 17th-century military life during the Jamestown Founding Celebration. Once you're back on the road, take the five-mile car tour through the pine forest and pitch and tar swamp behind the settlement. Keep an eye out for the many varieties of birds and herds of deer. You may want to look at the glass factory near the Jamestown park entrance. Costumed interpreters demonstrate glassblowing.
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\par Taking the Colonial Parkway east through Tidewater country brings you to Yorktown Battlefield. At the Yorktown Visitor Center, bone up on your knowledge of the Yorktown Siege by watching the 16-minute film \i The Siege of Yorktown. \plain\f0\fs20 \b Note:\plain\f0\fs20 There is a fee at Yorktown Visitor Center. Included are the Visitor Center, historic homes, Battlefield Tour and all interpretive programs. A Colonial Passport is also available which is good for both Jamestown and Yorktown. Visit the Nelson house, home of Declaration of Independence signer and wartime Governor of Virginia Thomas Nelson, Jr. During summer, take time to watch a play dramatizing Nelson family history. A seven-mile road runs through the battlefield, where you can still see earthworks, siege lines, and even some field cannon. Also, see the Moore House where terms for the surrender were negotiated. On October 19, a parade and patriotic ceremonies commemorate the anniversary of the surrender. Hot Brunswick stew is served for lunch on that special day.
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\par Along the Colonial Parkway, you'll notice other attractions. The Jamestown Settlement Museum, operated by the Commonwealth of Virginia, is a living history museum, and you can't miss Colonial Williamsburg, a privately owned park re-creating the former capital of Virginia.\par \par Colonial National Historical Park\par PO Box 210\par Yorktown, VA 23690\par 757-898-3400\par 757-898-3400
One of the most famous historical sites in the US, Colonial Williamsburg is an extensive re-creation of the capital of Virginia during the Colonial period. This outdoor living history museum includes private homes, stores, taverns, and shops where museum employees ply historic trades and crafts. Carter's Grove, a nearby 18th-century plantation, is a major part of the museum. Other places of interest include the Governor's Palace and the Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Center.\par \par Colonial Williamsburg\par PO Box 1776\par Williamsburg, VA 23187\par 757-220-7645\par 800-447-8679
Operated by the Commonwealth of Virginia, this reconstruction of America's first permanent English colony includes a fort, replicas of three ships, and an American Indian village. Tour guides in period costume play the parts of the first residents, and visitors can see exhibits and a film on the history of Jamestown and the Powhatan Indians, who originally inhabited this area. This site is located right next to Historic Jamestown, which is run by the National Park Service.\par \par Jamestown Settlement Museum\par PO Box JF\par Rte 31 and Colonial Pkwy\par Williamsburg, VA 23187\par 757-253-4838
A 17th century European theme park divided into several European hamlets, Busch Gardens covers 360 acres. Attractions include four steel roller coasters, several live shows, and a giant treehouse with walkways.\par \par Busch Gardens, Williamsburg\par One Busch Gardens Blvd\par Williamsburg, VA 23187\par 757-253-3350\par 757-253-3399
Located three miles east of Williamsburg on I-64, this water theme park offers refreshing fun for all ages. Families enjoy Big Daddy Falls, a river raft trip in a giant inner tube. Along with other rides and pools, this 40-acre park features a 600,000-gallon wave pool and daily shows in the Caban-A-Rama and Minnow Matinee Theaters. Children especially enjoy Cow-A-Bunga, a 4,500-square-foot play area. Sunbathers take advantage of 1,000 lounge chairs to soak up the summer rays. Group rates are available, and children under two are free. The park opens at 10 AM throughout the season and closes at variable hours, usually 6 PM or after. Call ahead for precise details.\par \par Water Country USA\par 176 Water Country Parkway\par Williamsburg, VA 23185\par 757-253-3350\par 757-253-3399
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Thirteen years before the Pilgrims set foot on Plymouth Rock, 104 members of the Virginia Company expedition made landfall at Cape Henry on the shore of what is now Virginia. Soon, they moved inland up the James River, to a spot where the water was deep enough to moor their ships close to the shore. Here, in 1607, they established the first permanent English settlement in the new world--Jamestown. This is the land of legends--of John Smith and Pocahontas, of the "Starving Time," when only 60 of 500 residents survived a harsh, famine-ridden year, of struggles with the Algonquian tribes and their chief, Powhatan. Eventually, Jamestown prospered by raising tobacco, a commodity much in demand back in Europe, and became the first capital of the Virginia Colony. Once the seat of government shifted northeast to Williamsburg, Jamestown's importance waned. Today, only the Old Church Tower, built in 1639, remains of the community's original buildings.
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\par Jamestown is now a unit of Colonial National Historical Park, and is co-administered with the Association for the Preservation of Virginia Antiquities (APVA). Jamestown is linked to Yorktown by the Colonial Parkway, which also passes through Williamsburg. This 23-mile scenic drive, which begins near the visitor center, prohibits use by commercial vehicles and enforces a leisurely speed limit of 45 miles per hour.
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\par The Jamestown Visitor Center stands at the edge of the original town site. Here, you can view an informative film on the history of the area and take in museum exhibits. Stroll around the island or drive along the loop road where interpretive markers will increase your understanding of the settlement. The Association for the Preservation of Virginia Antiquities conducts ongoing archaeological research into the original town and fort sites, and the public is encouraged to watch their efforts as they excavate foundations and search for artifacts. Near the entrance station at Glasshouse Point, you can visit a recreated glass-making operation. Glass-blowers in period costume produce bottles and bowls just as their counterparts did almost four centuries ago.
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\par The Commonwealth of Virginia maintains a museum complex, Jamestown Settlement, near the entrance to Jamestown Island. There, you can explore re-creations of the Virginia Company's three ships, the Discovery, the Susan Constant, and the Godspeed, as well as replicas of Fort James and an Algonquian Village. Living history demonstrations are an ongoing attraction, and there is a museum and cafe on site. This facility is not part of the National Park Service.\par \par Jamestown, The Original Site\par PO Box 210\par Yorktown, VA 23690\par 757-898-3400\par 757-898-3400
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Yorktown was once a prosperous tobacco port. The high riverbanks that provided a lovely view for the affluent exporters who built there also attracted General Cornwallis and his British troops, 8,300 strong, in the summer of 1781. He hoped he could hold position on the strategic high ground, occupy the port, and use it to bring in much-needed supplies. Continental and French allied troops, under the commands of Generals Washington and Rochambeau, trapped him with his back against the river, laying siege to the town. Cornwallis' strategy failed utterly, and on October 19, having agreed to terms negotiated at the site, he surrendered to Washington and the last major battle of the American Revolutionary War was over. \par \par When you stop by the visitor center, take in the view from the roof-top overlook. You can clearly see earthworks, redoubts, and artillery, some original and some restored, that tell the tale of that fateful siege and battle. Interpretive programs and exhibits inside the center fill in the gaps. You can see a partial reconstruction of a British frigate. Drive around the battlefield, stopping to read the informative markers placed along the route. For a small fee, you can rent a cassette tape to enhance your self-guided tour, or pick up a brochure and map of the drive. Both are available at the visitor center.\par \par Within the community of Yorktown are several historic houses. The Nelson House, home of Thomas Nelson, Jr., a signer of the Declaration of Independence and commander of the Virginia Militia is open to the public daily. The Moore House, where the terms of surrender were drawn up, is on the edge of town. It is open to the public spring through fall.\par \par The Yorktown Victory Center, administered by the Commonwealth of Virginia and not a National Park Service site, is located close to the battlefield. Two living history re-creations, an 18th-century farm and a Revolutionary War encampment, provide a glimpse of life during the period.\par \par Yorktown and Jamestown are linked by the 23-mile-long Colonial Parkway. Commercial vehicles are not permitted along this scenic drive, where the speed limit is a leisurely 45 miles per hour. Midway between the two units of the park lies Williamsburg, with its meticulously restored historic district.\par \par Yorktown Battlefield\par PO Box 210\par Yorktown, VA 23690\par 757-898-3400
\par Yorktown Battlefield\par PO Box 210\par Yorktown, VA 23690\par 757-898-3400
Southeast of Williamsburg, along the banks of the James River, Carter Burwell began building a splendid house in 1750. The grandson of Robert "King" Carter, one of colonial Virginia's wealthy planters, Burwell finished his testimony to the family's social, economic, and political prominence in 1753. By the end of the 19th century, the house and outlying buildings had fallen into disrepair. When the McCrea family purchased the property in 1928, they began a renovation and modernization project resulting in the magnificent showpiece estate that you may visit today. From March through Christmas you may tour the house and grounds Tuesday through Sunday, from 9 AM to 5 PM.
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\par Be sure to stop at the nearby Winthrop Rockefeller Archaeology Museum, which contains the remains of Wolstenholme Towne. Artifacts from this 17th-century town were unearthed during the ongoing excavation of the plantation grounds. Carter's Grove is administered by the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation.\par \par Carter's Grove Plantation\par PO Box 1776\par Colonial Williamsburg Foundation\par Williamsburg, VA 23187\par 800-246-2099
Located near the site of the American Revolution's decisive campaign in 1781, the center includes a re-created Continental Army camp, 18th-century farm, costumed interpreters, and galleries. Nearby is the Moore House, where the terms of surrender were drafted. Located on Route 1020 and Colonial Pkwy.\par \par Yorktown Victory Center\par PO Box 1976\par Yorktown, VA 23690\par 757-253-4838
757-253-4838
This coastal city, part of the metropolitan expanse that covers the Virginia shoreline, boasts a wealth of recreation opportunities with a historical angle. An extensive collection of old ship figureheads, model ships, and nautical exhibits, and an exhaustive library of books and manuscripts on the sea grace the Mariners' Museum. War Memorial Museum of Virginia contains examples of weaponry used in every war in which the United States has participated. Virginia Living Museum has native wildlife. Fort Eustis has a transportation museum. Visitors can take a harbor cruise; drink in more American history at nearby Jamestown, Williamsburg, and Yorktown; or enjoy the sun and sand at one of Virginia's fine beaches.\par \par Newport News\par Newport News, VA
Restoration and preservation after painstaking research have turned back the clock over 200 years in Virginia's Colonial capital. In the 173-acre Historic Area you may enjoy many of the gardens, visit the shops, and walk the same streets as did Thomas Jefferson, George Washington, and Patrick Henry. Continuous activities and special events re-create the atmosphere of the 18th-century town. Eighty-eight buildings are original. The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation has reconstructed 300 others. Notable restorations include the Governor's Palace, with its formal gardens; the Capitol Building; the Courthouse; Bruton Parish Church; George Wythe House; and Shields and Raleigh taverns. Authentically furnished homes stand along the Palace Green. Craft shops where workers in Colonial costumes ply the old trades of printing, blacksmithing, wigmaking and other pursuits are fascinating. View rare antique masterworks at the DeWitt Wallace Decorative Arts Gallery. Explore 19th-century American objects at the Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Center. In the heart of the city, the College of William and Mary has a lovely Wren Building. Nearby is Carter's Grove, the former estate of Robert "King" Carter, one of Colonial Virginia's wealthiest planters. The mansion has been called one of America's most beautiful houses. Visit the Winthrop Rockefeller Archaeology Museum.\par \par Williamsburg\par Williamsburg, VA
Outside this picturesque town on the banks of the York River, you can walk on the battlefield where Cornwallis surrendered to George Washington following the American-French siege of 1781, the last formal campaign of the American Revolution. Visit Moore House, where surrender terms were drafted, and Nelson House, where a cannonball struck an exterior wall. Nearby Yorktown Victory Center has exhibits, films, and a living history encampment.\par \par Yorktown\par Yorktown, VA
Mount Rainier provides the backdrop and the resort takes care of the rest with full-range skiing, fitness, and children's programs for guests. The fitness club offers a swimming pool and hot tub; children can take part in Kids Club, a day- or week-long supervised program of snow play, skiing, and day care. In the summer, the resort offers mountain biking and gourmet dinners at the summit, with a beautiful view of Mount Rainier at sunset.\par \par Crystal Mountain Resort\par One Crystal Mountain Blvd\par Crystal Mountain, WA 98022\par 360-663-2265\par 360-663-0148
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Known to Indians as Tahoma, or "great snowy peak," Mount Rainier is the tallest mountain in Washington's Cascade Range. Its snow-capped summit, the result of thousands of years of glacial movement and volcanic activity, dominates the horizon from as far away as 100 miles.
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\par Rainier itself is an "episodically active" volcano; its last reported eruption was over a century ago. Glacial rivers flow downward from Columbia Crest, spilling over rocks and cliffs. Old-growth forests cover the valley below with western hemlock, Douglas fir, and western red cedar. Lowland forest flowers bloom in late spring and early summer as temperatures rise and snow melts. In late July and August, subalpine meadows are carpeted with a colorful array of wildflowers. \b
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\par What to see and do. \plain\f0\fs20 The best place to start your tour is at any one of four visitor centers where rangers are available to answer questions. Slide presentations and exhibits can give you an overview of Mount Rainier, or you can join ranger-guided hikes or gatherings around a campfire.
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\par The park offers over 300 miles of trails that lead into the wilderness. A permit is required for overnight trips. You can pick up your permit at any ranger station or at the Longmire and White River Wilderness Information Centers. A fee will be charged for wilderness permits beginning in 1998. You can't miss the views of glaciers from trailside lookout points. Two of the most impressive glaciers are Nisqually and Emmons. Serious trekkers look forward to the 93-mile Wonderland Trail. It circles the mountain, passing through every major life-zone in the park. A shorter, 18-mile section of the Wonderland Trail between Stevens Canyon Road and the White River entrance appeals to those who want to experience the same variety of terrain without spending two weeks on the trail. However, this section of trail often has a greater density of hikers as well.
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\par Only the most experienced climbers should attempt to scale Rainier's treacherous peaks. Registration is required, as well as one-time or annual fees. Contact the Park Service for information and the latest weather conditions.
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\par Additional activities include snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, picnicking, and winter sports.\par \par Mount Rainier National Park\par Tahoma Woods, Star Rte\par Ashford, WA 98304-9751\par 360-569-2211
Stretching from the Canadian border to Mount Rainier National Park, this forest includes thousands of acres of the Cascade Range. It's within easy driving distance of Seattle and Tacoma, making it a favorite vacation destination of Puget Sound-area visitors and residents. Before you tackle the forest's vast expanses of trees, lakes, and streams, stop by or call the Outdoor Recreation Information Center located in downtown Seattle (206-220-7450). In Snoqualmie Pass, you'll find another information center open on a seasonal basis.
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\par If you'd like to get away from the roar of motors, spend your time in the wilderness areas. Covering 42 percent of the forest, these territories are closed to motorized vehicles and boats, leaving you free to enjoy hikes, rafting expeditions, and fishing in peace. Over 1,400 miles of trails crisscross the mountains and valleys. Sections of the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail wind through the forest, too. As you picnic, swim, or hike, keep your eyes open for the many different varieties of birds and animals that take advantage of the protected land.
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\par Wintertime visitors bring their snowmobiles, cross-country skis, and snowshoes. At seven downhill ski areas, alpine enthusiasts take in stunning views of the surrounding mountains as they carve turns down the slopes. Hunting is permitted in season; contact the forest for regulations. Over 50 campgrounds offer ample sites for adventurous overnighters.\par \par Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest\par 21905 64th Ave West\par Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043\par 800-627-0062\par 425-775-9702
Encompassing over two million acres of Washington's dense forestland, Wenatchee offers a wealth of outdoor recreation. Before you venture into the forest, stop by one of six ranger stations to pick up trail maps and information about campgrounds and picnic facilities. Stations are located in Chelan, Entiat, Lake Wenatchee, Leavenworth, Cle Elum, and Naches.
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\par About 40 percent of the forest is wilderness, which means no motorized vehicles are allowed. But thousands of miles of trails afford access to the pristine natural preserves. Bring sturdy hiking shoes, horses, or bikes in order to best explore the valleys and mountainsides. As you're trekking through the sagebrush and pine on the lower slopes, watch for deer and fox. Trails take you further up into the Cascades, above 8,000 feet, where vegetation thins and soaring predatory birds are easier to spot.
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\par In the Naches Ranger District, you may visit two wildlife-viewing areas. At Rimrock Lake and Clear Lake, waterfowl and spawning sockeye salmon may be observed at appropriate times during the year. Mountain goats, elk, eagles, and hawks are frequent sights at the Timberwolf Mountain viewing area.
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\par Intrepid river runners find outfitters in Leavenworth who organize trips. These day-long white-water adventures float the Wenatchee River, beginning on East Leavenworth Road and ending in Cashmere or Wenatchee. The tour passes orchards and provides unparalleled vistas of the Wenatchee Mountains. Some rapids are class IV.
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\par Wintertime visitors find quiet, secluded acres laced by the cross-country ski trail system and roads open to snowmobiling. Snowshoers enjoy a peaceful tramp through the hushed woods.
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\par Over 125 campgrounds offer tent and RV sites as well as horseback and trail bike camping. Some sites have fire rings or fireplaces but no hookups. More developed sites, for which a fee is charged, have drinking water and flush toilets. Organizations may reserve group sites for a fee.\par \par Wenatchee National Forest\par 215 Melody Lane\par Wenatchee, WA 98801\par 509-662-4335\par 509-662-4368
This 1.2-million-acre forest in southwestern Washington contains the state's most famous attraction, Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument, but the forest also boasts hundreds of miles of foot and bike paths and thousands of miles of roads leading to beautiful Cascade Mountain scenery. There are numerous waterfalls in the forest; some, like 400-foot Goat Creek Falls are in wilderness areas and accessible only through backcountry hikes, while others are near the road along barrier-free trails--easily accessible to all.
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\par Cavers will want to explore 12,810-foot-long Ape Cave, the longest lava tube in North and South America. Bring warm clothing and two reliable sources of light; this is not a commercial cave. Lanterns are available for rent seasonally at Ape Cave Headquarters.
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\par Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument has two visitor centers: one at Silver Lake featuring exhibits and a nature trail, and one at Coldwater Ridge, with views of the volcano crater and lava dome. Between May 15 and October 31, a quota is imposed on climbers wishing to attempt Mount St. Helens. A total of 100 climbers are allowed on the mountain each day, with 60 spots reservable either via mail or in person, and the remaining 40 spots awarded in a lottery held each evening for the next day's climbing. Contact the forest's climbing information line at 360-750-3961 for more details.
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\par Gifford Pinchot National Forest has seven wilderness areas: Indian Heaven, Mt. Adams, Goat Rocks, William O. Douglas, Trapper Creek, Tatoosh, and Glacier View. Self-issuing permits are located at all trailheads leading into the wilderness areas and are mandatory. They are free of charge and may also be obtained from the Packwood and Naches ranger stations. No motorized or wheeled vehicles are allowed on wilderness area trails.
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\par Developed campgrounds are located at various sites throughout the forest. They do not provide hookups, but restrooms are available. Many campgrounds are located near lakes and streams, allowing anglers to cast their lines for trout and other game fish. \b \par \par Please note:\plain\f0\fs20 Not all areas of the forest may be accessible. If you have any question about road conditions in the forest, call headquarters in advance of your visit.\par \par Gifford Pinchot National Forest\par PO Box 8944\par Vancouver, WA 98669\par 360-750-5000
hot National Forest\par PO Box 8944\par Vancouver, WA 98669\par 360-750-5000
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 After driving east from the Nisqually Entrance through stunningly beautiful, dense forest, you reach Longmire. Located at Rainier's southwestern end, Longmire is the oldest developed area in the park. James Longmire discovered mineral springs here in 1883 and later built the Mineral Spring Resort. You can still see the foundation of the hotel and Longmire's homestead cabin, built by Elcaine Longmire, son of James. It is the oldest structure in the park and has served as a meat house, a watchmen's house, and as housing for some of Elcaine's helpers. Don't miss the Longmire Museum, where you'll find extensive exhibits on the park's history and natural resources. It's one of the oldest interpretive museums in the National Park Service. After a long drive, the snack bar is welcome, and you can browse through the gift shop.
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\par At the Longmire Wilderness Information Center (open during the summer), you can obtain wilderness use permits or consult a park ranger for additional information about the area. Other visitor facilities include a general store and post office. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 One of Longmire's highlights is the National Park Inn. This national historic landmark was renovated in 1990. It offers 25 rooms, 18 of them with private bath. Make reservations well in advance by calling 360-569-2275. The inn is open year-round.\par \par Longmire\par Mount Rainier National Park, Tahoma Woods, Star Route\par Ashford, WA 98034\par 360-569-2211
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 True to its name, subalpine Paradise is a wonderland of glaciers, waterfalls, icefalls, and wildflower meadows. Situated in the southern portion of the park, it is the main winter-use area, receiving an average of 620 feet of snow per year.
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\par The Nisqually Vista trail leads you to breathtaking views of Nisqually Glacier, and a host of other trails radiate out from the site. The Nisqually Icefall consists of huge ice blocks in a slow fall down the side of a glacier. Their average daily movement is about three feet. The Paradise River pours down a 168-foot ledge to form Narada Falls.
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\par The Henry M. Jackson Memorial Visitor Center is open daily during the summer season and on weekends and holidays from October to May. It features exhibits about glaciers, wildlife, geology, and mountain climbing. Be sure to see the two multimedia programs on these topics. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 Since 1917, this spectacular area has been home to the Paradise Inn. Shirley Temple and Cecil B. DeMille have stayed in this inn featuring tall windows, gabled roofs, and parquet floors. The inn offers 126 rooms, 95 of them with private baths, for $67-$94 per night. Be sure to make your reservations well in advance by calling 360-569-2275. This popular inn, which is on the National Register of Historic Places, is only open summers.\par \par Paradise\par Mount Rainier National Park, Tahoma Woods, Star Route\par Ashford, WA 98304\par 360-569-2211
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Situated on an island in the Ohanapecosh River, the Grove of the Patriarchs is the jewel of this lowland forest and features thousand-year-old Douglas fir, western hemlock, and western red cedar trees. A 1.5-mile trail loops beneath these forest giants. Located in the southeastern corner of the park near the Stevens Canyon entrance, this area is a main approach to Paradise and the high country for visitors traveling west from the Cascades.
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\par A few miles south of the grove, you find the Ohanapecosh Visitor Center. It's located on Hwy. 123 and is open weekends in May and June and daily from June to mid-October. Look through exhibits focusing on wildlife, local history, and old-growth forests. Check the schedule of ranger-led activities and campfire programs at the campground. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 A hiking trail connects the Grove of the Patriarchs and the Ohanapecosh Campground, which offers 205 tent and RV sites at $12 per night. During the period of July 1 through Labor Day, campers must have a reservation. Campers have access to a dump station and drinking water, but no RV hookups. Other amenities include picnic sites and an amphitheater. This campground is closed in winter.\par \par Ohanapecosh\par Mount Rainier National Park, Tahoma Woods, Star Route\par Ashford, WA 98034\par 360-569-2211
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 This 6,400-foot peak is the highest point in the park accessible by car. From this road you can get a breathtaking view of the Cascades' dormant volcanoes, including Mounts Rainier, Hood, Adams, and Baker. Emmons Glacier can be seen on the eastern side. Covering four square miles, it's the largest glacier in the park. Due to drier conditions, there is less vegetation here than in Paradise.
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\par The Sunrise Visitor Center is your destination after a long drive. Open from 9 AM to 6 PM late June through early September, it offers exhibits on glaciers, geology and alpine and subalpine ecology. After looking through the exhibits, head out onto the short nature trails to see the plant life up close. For 1.5 miles, the Sourdough Ridge Trail winds through subalpine meadows. From the half-mile Emmons Vista Trail, you get a splendid view of Emmons Glacier. A picnic lunch outside proves memorable because you're surrounded by unmatched scenery. If you're planning a hike in this area, stop by the White River Wilderness Information Center. Relax in the Sunrise Lodge (no overnight accommodations) and enjoy a bite to eat at the snack bar.\par \par Sunrise\par Mount Rainier National Park, Tahoma Woods, Star Route\par Ashford, WA 98034\par 360-569-2211
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 This area is named for coal deposits found in the park's northwest corner. Mild weather and heavy rainfall have created the park's only rainforest. At the Carbon River entrance, investigate the unique rainforest ecology along the Carbon River Rainforest Trail, a self-guided nature walk. Other area trails connect with the Wonderland Trail and lead to Mowich Lake and the Carbon Glacier. This area of the park receives far fewer visitors than the popular southwest corner. If you're looking for solitude, you'll find it here in the Carbon River area. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 At the end of an unpaved road you find the Ipsut Campground. The road washed out in February 1996 and is still closed to vehicles at this time. Hiking and bicycling on the road is ok. The park expects to begin road repair in the fall of '98 and open the road to vehicles when completed. Ipsut campground is currently considered a "temporary" wilderness camp, with no potable water.The fee is $10 per night on a first-come, first-served basis. Two group sites are available at $3 per person, and reservations are accepted.
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\par Even at carbon River, the weekends are very busy and parking is often a problem for people who arrive during afternoon hours.\par \par Carbon River\par Mount Rainier National Park, Tahoma Woods, Star Route\par Ashford, WA 98034\par 360-569-2211
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Sunshine Point Campground is located near the Nisqually entrance in the park's southwestern corner. From here you can drive east to Longmire and Paradise, or to a host of interesting sites in between. Along the way you can stop and see Carter and Madcap Falls, or take some time to visit the Henry M. Jackson Memorial Visitor Center. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 Sunshine offers 16 sites for tents and RVs, but no group sites are available. There are no hookups. Sites are offered on a first-come, first-served basis only, and are $10 per night. This is the only park campground that is open year-round. For information on permits and wilderness camping, call park headquarters.\par \par Sunshine Point Campground\par Mount Rainier National Park, Tahoma Woods, Star Route\par Ashford, WA 98304\par 360-569-2211
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Mount Rainier's "great snowy peak" is surrounded by old-growth forests of western hemlock and western red cedar. Glaciers have created a cascade of waterfalls and rivers, and subalpine meadows are carpeted with wildflowers in spring and summer. Perched at 4,400 feet, this campground is the highest in the park. At this elevation, the woods are thinner, but you get better views of Rainier's summit.
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\par The White River Campground is located in the northeast corner of the park near the Wonderland Trail. From here you can hike along the trail west to Glacier Basin or north to Shadow Lake. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 White River offers 117 tent and RV sites (no hookups) on a first-come, first-served basis for $10 per night. No group sites are available, and the campground is closed in winter. Campers have access to flush toilets and drinking water. A ranger station and picnic facilities are nearby. Call the park headquarters for additional information.\par \par White River Campground\par Mount Rainier National Park, Tahoma Woods, Star Route\par Ashford, WA 98304\par 360-569-2211
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 A 2.5-mile drive north from Longmire brings you to the Cougar Rock Campground. Nestled beneath the dense forest between the Longmire and Paradise areas, it offers a beautiful and convenient place to stay overnight. Hikers may pick up the Wonderland Trail just across the road. About 1.5 miles further north along the road, you can cross the footbridge that spans lovely Christine Falls. At the campground, you find an amphitheater and handicapped-accessible facilities. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 Cougar Rock offers 200 tent and RV sites (no hookups). Five of the sites accommodate groups. During the period July 1 through Labor Day, campers must have a reservation. Single sites are $10 per night, while group sites average $3 per person. Campers have access to drinking water and a dump station. Sites have flush toilets.\par \par Cougar Rock Campground\par Mount Rainier National Park, Tahoma Woods, Star Route\par Ashford, WA 98034\par 360-569-2211
Set against the backdrop of the Tetons on the border between Wyoming and Idaho, Grand Targhee Ski & Summer Resort features year-round family recreation opportunities steeped in genuine western atmosphere. In winter, skiers enjoy terrific powder conditions and vast stretches of open skiing. In fact, Grand Targhee is famous for its 3,000 acres of skiable terrain and spectacular scenery. Two quad chairlifts get skiers to the slopes in record time. A complete, self-contained resort, Grand Targhee is the perfect place for ski or summer vacations. All lodging, shopping, restaurants, activities, and entertainment are conveniently located in the cozy base village offering ski in, ski out access during the ski season.
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\par In summer, guests are welcome to hike, golf, fish, and swim. Mountain biking and horseback riding are popular summer activities as well, and the resort provides a climbing wall, a full-service spa center, tennis, and other fun activities. Call ahead for a schedule of annual summer festivals.
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\par Visitors can choose from three lodges and five restaurants at this full-service resort located 12 miles east of Driggs, Idaho and a scenic 45-minute drive from Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks are located nearby and the resort can arrange your trips to these beautiful natural treasures.\par \par Grand Targhee Ski & Summer Resort\par PO Box SKI\par Alta, WY 83422\par 307-353-2300\par 800-827-4433\par 307-353-8148
This ski resort, located right in Jackson at the base of Snow King Mountain, has 400 acres of skiing area: 15 percent beginner, 25 percent intermediate, and 60 percent advanced. Snowboarding, snowmaking, night skiing, ice skating, and hockey are also available. The resort operates the Great American Ski School for both adults and children of all levels in cross-country, snowboarding, and Alpine skiing.
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\par Visitors can stay in a 204-room hotel or rent a condo, dine at the Atrium Restaurant, enjoy a heated, outdoor swimming pool, two whirlpools, a sauna, small fitness room, masseuse, game room, and bar. Daycare is available in nearby Teton Village.\par \par Snow King Ski Area\par 400 E Snow King Ave\par Jackson, WY 83001\par 800-522-5464\par 307-733-5200
This famous ski area is known for Rendezvous Mountain with its steep and expert terrain. But don't be fooled, because 50% of the terrain is great skiing for beginners and intermediates, too. Nordic and cross-country touring and snowboarding are available, and kids from 4 to 12 can take part in the Kid's Ranch ski school. A wide variety of accommodations, restaurants, and nightlife are available. In summer visitors come for fishing, hunting, hiking, and mountain biking.\par \par Jackson Hole Ski Area\par 7658 Teewinot\par PO Box 290\par Teton Village, WY 83025\par 800-443-6931\par 307-733-2292\par 307-733-1286
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 After his expedition west with Lewis and Clark, John Colter decided to travel home by way of the Rocky Mountains. In 1807 he happened upon the Yellowstone basin, and was probably the first white man to see its geysers and mudpots, but his reports were rejected as ridiculous by the press of the day. The area was dubbed "Colter's Hell" and dismissed as the hallucination of a crazy mountain man. Colter's account was verified again and again, though, as more trappers and explorers traveled through the area. In 1871, Dr. Ferdinand Hayden led a surveying expedition into Yellowstone, and included painter Thomas Moran and photographer William H. Jackson on his team. The release of Hayden's findings, coupled with the stunning photographs and paintings of the fantastic landscape, piqued the public interest, and paved the way for Yellowstone to be designated as the first national park in the world in 1872.
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\par Yellowstone's amazing concentration of geysers and other thermal features is the result of a "hot spot" in the earth's mantle. Several enormous volcanic eruptions, the last only 600,000 years ago, formed the caldera in which the geyser basins and Yellowstone Lake are located. Old Faithful, one of the most predictable geysers in the world, is the most popular thermal feature of the park, but there are about 10,000 other geysers, pools, and fumaroles for you to see. Each of Yellowstone's geyser basins has its own character, and each one is worth a visit.
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\par Geysers are only part of the attraction of Yellowstone. It is prime wilderness area, preserved as it has been for centuries. Herds of elk and American bison are protected within the park boundaries, as are its black and grizzly bear populations, and several newly introduced wolf packs. These are by no means the only species that call Yellowstone home. Numerous other mammals, birds, and fish, including the native Yellowstone cutthroat trout, find a haven in the park, making it one of the best places in the nation to observe wildlife.
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\par Add to this the spectacular Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, with its breathtaking views of Upper and Lower Falls, the lofty mountains of the Gallatin and Absaroka Ranges, the travertine terraces of Mammoth Hot Springs, and many other scenic features, and you come up with one of the most rewarding national park experiences in the world. Yellowstone is recognized as a Biosphere Reserve and a World Heritage Site. \b
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\par What to see and do. \plain\f0\fs20 The 142-mile-long Grand Loop Road winds in a figure eight past the most popular attractions in the park and connects with all highways into and out of Yellowstone. Ask for a schedule of events, obtainable at any visitor center, so you can make the most of your visit. A three-day stay will allow you to tour the park's major attractions at a leisurely pace. Should you only have one day to spend in Yellowstone, park personnel suggest you concentrate on one or two aspects of the park that most interest you, and spend several hours at each site. Please note that traffic in the park moves slowly in peak season, so budget plenty of time to reach your destination.
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\par The major attractions are Old Faithful Geyser, the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, Yellowstone Lake, and Mammoth Hot Springs. The more remote areas, such as the eerie moonscape of Norris Geyser Basin, home to Steamboat, Yellowstone's largest active geyser, and Echinus, popular with "geyser gazers," can offer an equally rewarding Yellowstone experience. Visit Midway Geyser Basin to see the polychromatic display of Grand Prismatic Spring, or check out the Fountain Paint Pots as they burble pastel mud in the Lower Geyser Basin. See the petrified remains of a redwood forest up on Specimen Ridge, or take a walk on the boardwalk past Old Faithful to visit Grand Geyser, Morning Glory Pool, and a host of other thermal features. If you long to see wildlife in their natural habitat, don't miss Hayden or Lamar Valleys.
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\par You can certainly see the highlights of Yellowstone National Park without venturing very far from your vehicle. But the park offers a full range of recreational activities, from boating, canoeing, and fishing (park license required), to hiking, horseback riding, and every type of camping experience. There are more than 1,000 miles of trails in Yellowstone; some lead deep into the park's backcountry wilderness, and some are scenic loop trails that take visitors right to the edge of sparkling hot springs or breathtaking canyons.
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\par Ranger stations are located at or near all park entrances and at several other places around the park. Albright Visitor Center and Park Headquarters are located at Mammoth Hot Springs. You will find other visitor centers at Old Faithful, Canyon, Fishing Bridge, and Grant Village. Norris Geyser Basin and Madison feature museums.
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\par Because of Yellowstone's high elevation, snow closes all but one of the park entrances by early November. This doesn't mean the park closes, though. Once the snow is deep enough, main roads in the park are groomed for snowmobiles and snow coaches, and a number of trails are groomed for cross-country skiing. Mammoth Hot Springs remains open all winter, and is accessible by car. Old Faithful Snow Lodge can only be reached by snow vehicle, but is the starting point for many ski and snowshoe treks. Concessions within the park and in the gateway towns provide snowmobile rentals and snow coach tour reservations.\par \par Yellowstone National Park\par PO Box 168\par Yellowstone, WY 82190\par 307-344-7381\par 307-585-0011\par 307-344-7456
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 The majestic Tetons tower over Jackson Hole with nary a foothill to obscure the view. The youngest range of the Rocky Mountains, these jagged granite peaks were born five to nine million years ago when seismic disturbances uplifted the land on the westward side of the Teton fault as the flat valley to the east subsided. Glaciation carved the rugged cirques and pointed summits we see today, and deposited rocks and gravel in the valley, enough to dam its creeks and form a necklace of small lakes. Likewise, glacial deposits dammed the path of the Snake River, forming Jackson Lake. Jackson Hole and the meanders of the Snake River provide prime habitat for elk and moose, as well as waterfowl and birds of prey.
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\par The area was neutral elk hunting and foraging ground for several Native American tribes, and 19th-century trappers and mountain men also found Jackson Hole rich in game. Ranchers homesteaded the land to the east and south of the Tetons, but by the early 20th century had discovered that "dudes winter better than cows." They began forsaking the cattle industry for the more lucrative tourist trade. Today, four million visitors a year come to Grand Teton National Park to drink in the awe-inspiring views and partake of its many recreational opportunities. \b
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\par What to see and do. \plain\f0\fs20 The main road through Grand Teton National Park extends 56 miles from the northern to the southern entrances, and can be traveled in as little time as an hour and a half. You can drive through and take in the spectacular scenery, but you'll probably want to park the car and explore along the way. First, stop by one of the park's visitor centers: Moose Visitor Center is nearest to the southern entrance and Colter Bay Visitor Center, on the shores of Jackson Lake, is closest to the northern entrance. Check the daily park activity schedule or pick up a copy of \i Teewinot, \plain\f0\fs20 the park newspaper, to help plan your trip. For a spectacular view of the valley and the Tetons beyond, drive to the summit of Signal Mountain, near Jackson Lake (sorry, a winding road and limited parking prohibit RVs or trailers on this route). Be sure to stop for a closer look at Jenny Lake as you make your way down the valley. Here, you can walk around the lake or take a boat shuttle to the western side where a short trail leads to picturesque Hidden Falls. Farther south, you can learn about homesteading in Jackson Hole by visiting Menor's Ferry historic site near Moose.
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\par Your visit to Grand Teton needn't be limited to sightseeing. A wealth of recreational activities awaits the hardy visitor. Hiking trails, more than 200 miles of them ranging from easy to extremely strenuous, wind through Jackson Hole and into the canyons between the peaks. Hikes range in length from short, self-guided nature walks to the 40-mile, three-day trek along the Teton Crest Trail. There are five campgrounds in the park, and backcountry sites are provided along trails for overnight hikers. Boat on one of the park's many lakes, or take a rafting trip down the Snake River. Boats are available to rent at marinas along the shore of Jackson Lake. Horseback rides can be arranged at either Colter Bay Village or Jackson Lake Lodge, and picnic areas are scattered throughout the park. If you're interested in science and ecology, attend a seminar at the Teton Science School in the southeastern portion of the park. And take time to view the abundant wildlife that inhabits Jackson Hole. There will also be ranger-led activities June through September.
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\par Moose Visitor Center is the hub of winter activity in the park. Winter visitors can snowshoe, cross-country ski, ice fish, and snowmobile (with the proper permit). Rangers lead snowshoe hikes into the park from Moose during the winter months; call ahead for details. Please note that, while the main park road is kept plowed, snow closes most secondary park roads in the winter.
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\par The Moose Visitor Center is open year-round, with the exception of Christmas Day, from 8 AM to 5 PM with extended hours in summer. Colter Bay Visitor Center with its fine Indian Arts Museum opens each year on Mother's Day weekend and closes in late September. Jenny Lake Visitor Center is open from early June to early September. Hours are variable, so please call for more detailed information.
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\par There are three downhill ski areas near Grand Teton National Park, as well as campgrounds and hotel accommodations, should facilities in the park be filled.\par \par Grand Teton National Park\par PO Box 170\par US Hwy 89/26/191\par Moose, WY 83012-0170\par 307-739-3300\par 307-739-3600\par 307-739-3438
The Bridger-Teton National Forest is the second largest National Forest outside of Alaska and is home to one of the largest elk herds in the world. It provides habitat for a variety of other wildlife including grizzly bears, wolves and bald eagles.
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\par Each year 2.5 million people visit the three Wilderness Areas covering over 1.3 million acres - the Bridger, the Teton, and the Gros Ventre. These areas cover more than one-third of the National Forest and contain critical habitat for wildlife. Whether its hunting, fishing, driving for pleasure, hiking, or camping, the Bridger-Teton is one of America's premier outdoor playgrounds.\par \par Bridger - Teton National Forest\par PO Box 1888\par Hwy 191 and Hwy 292\par Jackson, WY 83001\par 307-739-5500\par 800-280-2267
Shoshone National Forest encompasses territory from the Montana border southward to central Wyoming. This 2.4-million-acre forest includes terrain ranging from sagebrush flats to rugged mountain peaks. Often climbing to elevations over 12,000 feet, the park boasts 156 glaciers. Visitors enjoy hiking, fishing, hunting, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, boating on the numerous lakes, canoeing (no rentals), and rafting. More than half the forest is designated as a wilderness area, in which motorboats are prohibited. Over 1,500 miles of scenic roadways allow travelers the opportunity to see Shoshone through their windshields. Keep your eyes open for resident bighorn sheep, black bear, and elk. When heading out onto the hiking trails, check trailhead bulletin boards for closings due to grizzly bears. Theodore Roosevelt, an early champion of wilderness preservation, insisted that Hwy 14/16/20 between Cody and Yellowstone was the most scenic 52 miles in the United States. If you'd like to spend some time exploring the river valleys and mountain tundra here, 33 campgrounds offer over 500 sites. Several private lodgings and outfitters are located within the forest. Call the forest for details.\par \par Shoshone National Forest\par 808 Meadow Lane\par PO Box 2140\par Cody, WY 82414\par 307-527-6241
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Within Grand Teton National Park, the school offers courses in natural history and field science year-round. Once a dude ranch, the school is open to students from the third grade and up, including adults.
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\par Residential and non-residential programs are offered to children, while adults sign up for regular courses, teacher workshops, and one- to five-day seminars. Topics include wildlife, botany, birding, geology, nature photography, rivers, astronomy, and archaeology. A graduate program is offered in Environmental Education and Natural Science.
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\par All courses are set in the great classroom of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, which includes Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks and the Bridger-Teton National Forest. Canoeing, hiking, backpacking, and skiing are often required for field trips. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 The school can provide information on accommodations. Camping and lodge accommodations are available on a seasonal basis in Grand Teton National Park or year-round in Jackson, Wy. Call Jackson Hole Area Chamber of Commerce at 307-733-3316. Call 307-739-3300 for more information.\par \par Teton Science School\par PO Box 68\par Kelly, WY 83011\par 307-733-4765\par 307-739-9388
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Grand Teton was originally established in 1929. It was expanded in 1950, when Congress merged Jackson Hole National Monument with the national park. John D. Rockefeller, Jr., who had been purchasing land around Jackson Hole in order to preserve the wilderness, donated almost 33,000 acres to the monument. His land then became part of the present-day Grand Teton National Park. Created in 1972 as a tribute to Rockefeller's conservation efforts, the parkway consists of 23,777 acres and connects Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. \b
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\par What to see and do. \plain\f0\fs20 On your way to either Yellowstone or Grand Teton, you can stop at any number of spots. Miles of trails run through the parkway. Visitors may hike, cross-country ski, snowmobile or horseback ride on the trails during the appropriate seasons. Enjoy river rafting, fishing, and boating on the Snake River (with the appropriate licences and permits). The parkway is open at all times.\par \par John D. Rockefeller, Jr., Memorial Parkway\par PO Drawer 170\par c/o Grand Teton National Park\par Moose, WY 83012\par 307-739-3300\par 307-733-2880\par 307-543-2401
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Here, fantastic stone terraces of travertine are formed daily as mineral-rich water from the hot springs deposits calcium carbonate along the hillsides. Primitive thermal bacteria give the terraces their colors, with white and yellow organisms living in the hottest water. Orange, brown, and green organisms predominate in cooler water. Although Mammoth is miles north of the caldera, a fault brings hot water to feed these springs from the Norris Geyser Basin, 21 miles away.
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\par The terraces are constantly changing as the thermal activity moves from one area to another. Along the Upper Terrace Drive, you can view dry terraces and see where new ones are forming, but dry terraces don't necessarily stay dry. Angel Terrace hadn't flowed for years and was starting to crumble, but recently some portions of the spring have come to life again. Along the Lower Terrace Trail, beautiful Minerva Terrace has gone through many cycles of activity. It has been known to cover boardwalk trails with layers of stone, necessitating the elevated boardwalk in place today. Across the street, Opal Terrace threatens to overtake the historic Prairie-style home designed by Old Faithful Inn architect Robert Reamer. A wall and sandbagging attempt to stave off the advance of the spring's travertine.
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\par The Albright Visitor Center features displays about the years when the army administered the park, 1886 to 1919. The park's headquarters are housed in the historic army buildings of Fort Yellowstone. Albright Visitor Center is open year-round, as Mammoth Hot Springs is a conduit for winter activity in the park.
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\par In addition to headquarters and the visitor center, amenities at Mammoth Hot Springs include a hotel, restaurant, and picnic facilities, as well as a clinic, horse rentals, gas station, gift shops, and a general store. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 Mammoth Hot Springs Campground offers 85 unpaved sites (no hookups) on a first-come, first-served basis. The daily fee is $12; restrooms and public telephones are provided. Campers may stay a maximum of 14 days.
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\par The Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel and Cabins offers two suites, 96 rooms (67 with private bath), and 112 cabins (68 with private bath). The hotel is not open year-round; it closes in early October and reopens in December for the winter season. It closes again in March, to reopen in mid-May. In winter, in addition to arranging snowcoach excursions and ski, snowshoe, and snowmobile rentals, Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel offers ice skating and private hot tub rentals. For reservations, information, or to inquire about rates, please call AmFac Parks and Resorts at 307-344-7311.\par \par Mammoth Hot Springs\par PO Box 168\par Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190\par 307-344-7381
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Tower-Roosevelt, at the junction of the Northeast Entrance Road and the Upper Loop Road, is a convenient base of operations for exploring the northern portions of Yellowstone. Nearby park attractions include the abundant wildlife in Lamar Valley, the fantastic petrified forest and fossils of Specimen Ridge, 132-foot Tower Fall, and the breathtaking Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.
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\par There are a number of services available at Tower-Roosevelt, including a lodge and restaurant, a ranger station, and a gas station. Both a gift shop and a general store are located in the complex. If you'd like to tour the area on horseback, the local stable rents horses and arranges guided tours. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 Roosevelt Lodge offers 62 cabins, some with private bath, and 18 rustic shelters. It is open from early June to late August. To make reservations or inquire about rates, please call AmFac Parks and Resorts at 307-344-7311. The lodge's restaurant offers three reasonably priced meals per day.
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\par The nearest campground is at Tower Fall. Other northern park campgrounds include Slough Creek, Pebble Creek, Mammoth Hot Springs, Canyon Village, and Indian Creek.\par \par Tower-Roosevelt\par PO Box 168\par Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190\par 307-344-7381
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Located 2.5 miles from Tower Junction, this campground is close to northern park attractions and the amenities of Tower-Roosevelt. Specimen Ridge, Lamar Valley, the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, and, of course, Tower Fall are all close by.
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\par There is a camp store in the area, and Tower-Roosevelt, with a lodge, restaurant, shops, gas station, ranger station, and riding stables is a short drive away. Both hiking trails and picnic sites are close by. You can fish for trout in Tower Creek as long as you have a park permit and observe park limits and regulations. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 Tower Fall Campground provides 32 unpaved sites (no hookups) available on a first-come, first-served basis. The daily fee is $10 and amenities include vault toilets and public telephones.\par \par Tower Fall Campground\par PO Box 168\par Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190\par 307-344-7381
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Located 8.5 miles northeast of Tower Junction, this campground is located close to north park attractions such as Specimen Ridge and its petrified forest, the wildife of Lamar Valley, Tower Fall, and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. You can fish for trout along Slough Creek, as long as you have a park permit and observe all park regulations and limits. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 This first-come, first-served campground provides 29 unpaved sites (no hookups) in the mountains 8.5 miles northeast of Tower Junction. Campers may stay a maximum of 14 days, for an $10 daily fee.There are vault toilets at the site.\par \par Slough Creek Campground\par PO Box 168\par Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190\par 307-344-7381
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 In the shadow of the Thunderer and Mount Norris, Pebble Creek Campground is located in the mountain forests seven miles southwest of the Northeast Entrance. The amenities at Tower-Roosevelt and northern points of interest such as Tower Fall, Specimen Ridge, Lamar Valley, and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone are an easy drive away. You can fish Pebble Creek for trout as long as you have a park permit and observe all park limits and regulations. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 Pebble Creek Campground offers 32 unpaved sites (no hookups) available during the summer on a first-come, first-served basis. Campers may stay a maximum of 14 days for a daily fee of $10. There are vault toilets at the site.\par \par Pebble Creek Campground\par PO Box 168\par Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190\par 307-344-7381
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 The stark, lunar landscape of Norris Geyser Basin and its fantastic thermal displays make this area a favorite of "geyser gazers." This is the hottest and most compact thermal area of Yellowstone, and the activity in Norris' Back Basin and Porcelain Basin is fast and furious. Steamboat Geyser, the most powerful in the park, spews steam and boiling water up to 350 feet into the air. Alas, it erupts infrequently and is impossible to predict. Neighboring Echinus puts on a fabulous display every hour or so, and predictions for it are posted at the nearby Geyser Basin Museum. Norris geysers include Dark Cavern and Constant Geysers, which erupt sporadically, and numerous others.
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\par There are two museums in the vicinity of Norris Geyser Basin: the Geyser Basin Museum, which features exhibits on Yellowstone's geysers and other thermal features, and the Museum of the National Park Ranger, which traces the history of the National Park System and the development of the ranger program. Both museums are open daily during the summer. Trails lead around both Back and Porcelain Basins. You can fish for trout in Gibbon River; ask the rangers about necessary permits, regulations, and limits. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 Norris Campground's 116 unpaved sites are available during the season on a first-come, first-served basis (no hookups), and campers may stay a maximum of 14 days at a cost of $12 per day. The campground has toilets and public phones. Rangers offer interpretive talks and demonstrations every evening during the summer at the Campfire Circle. Norris Geyser Basin is approximately half way between Mammoth Hot Springs and the Upper Geyser Basin, home of Old Faithful. \par \par Norris Geyser Basin\par PO Box 168\par Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190\par 307-344-7381
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 The Yellowstone River has carved a 20-mile-long canyon as deep as 1,540 feet along its course through the park. On the way, it drops 109 feet over Upper Falls and 308 feet, more than twice the height of Niagara, over Lower Falls. From their nests in canyon walls, ospreys dive 100 feet or more for fish to feed themselves and their chicks. Bison and elk frequent the meadows and lakes that surround the canyon.
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\par It is possible to drive the rim on both sides of the canyon, and the road leads to many scenic overlooks such as Inspiration Point and Artist Point. Many trails are accessible from the North and South Rim Drives. There are trails that take you right to the lip of both falls, several trails lead into the canyon, and there are walking trails along the canyon rim as well. If you long to be rid of the crowds at the overlooks, get out of your car and walk along one of these footpaths for a while. You'll soon find yourself out of the fray, with your own personal view of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.
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\par The Canyon Visitor Center is open from late-May through September, and features interpretive displays, an informative movie, and a children's art exhibit. Other amenities at Canyon Village include the Canyon Lodge, two restaurants, a campground, a gas station, gift shops, a post office, a general store, and stables where you can rent horses. An interpretive trail leads from the service area to the Grandview Point along the Canyon Rim. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 The Canyon Campground has 271 grass sites (no hookups), which can be reserved in advance through AmFac Parks and Resorts at 307-344-7311. Unreserved sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Campers can stay a maximum of 14 days for a fee of $15 per night. A dump station is available, and there are restrooms on site. Showers and laundry are available nearby.
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\par The Canyon Lodge offers 572 cabins and 37 hotel rooms at reasonable prices. To make reservations or to inquire about rates, please call 307-344-7311.\par \par Canyon Village\par PO Box 168\par Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190\par 307-242-2550\par 307-344-7381
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Madison Campground is located at the junction of the West Entrance Road and the Lower Loop Road, 14 miles south of Norris Geyser Basin. National Park Mountain, the site where early park explorers camped in 1870 and first got the notion to set aside Yellowstone as a national park, overlooks the campground. Madison Museum Arts Center features an Artists-in Residence program during the summer months. There is good trout fishing along Madison River, and Firehole River and Falls are a short distance away. Madison is only a few miles north of the Lower and Midway Geyser Basins and the Fountain Paint Pots. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging.\plain\f0\fs20 Madison Campground offers 280 paved campsites (no hookups), which can be reserved in advance through AmFac Parks and Resorts at 307-344-7311. Unreserved campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. A dump station, toilets, and public phones are available here, and the camping fee is $15 per night. Rangers from the Madison Information Station present campfire slide shows or interpretive talks during summer evenings at the campground's amphitheater (check with the campground or Visitor Center).\par \par Madison Campground\par PO Box 168\par Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190\par 307-344-7381\par 307-344-2821
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 While it's not the park's largest or even its most regular geyser, Old Faithful erupts more frequently than any other of Yellowstone's big geysers. On an average of 79 minutes (although actual eruption intervals vary from 40 to 115 minutes), Old Faithful shoots a steady stream of water 120 to 180 feet into the air. Eruptions last one and a half to five minutes, predicting the relative span of time to the next display.
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\par Old Faithful is the most popular geyser in the Upper Geyser Basin, but if you follow the boardwalk along the Firehole River, you'll come across a host of other geysers and sparkling, steaming pools. Upper Geyser Basin boasts the largest concentration of geysers in the world. The Old Faithful Visitor Center posts predicted eruption times for six of the predictable geysers in the area. Be sure to check the board for the predicted range of eruption times. To make sure you see the eruption you want, go to the geyser at the earliest time of the predicted range and wait. It may take a while, but you'll be rewarded with a spectacular show. Grand Geyser, located to the north and across the river from Old Faithful, is considered a "must see" by serious geyser enthusiasts. Shooting gallons of water in great bursts, some reaching 190 feet high, Grand is the world's tallest predictable geyser, erupting every eight to 16 hours. Castle Geyser, whose large cone indicates it may be the oldest of Yellowstone's geysers, currently erupts at intervals of ten to 12 hours, for 60 minutes at a time, with a water phase lasting 20 minutes. The cascade of water over its geyserite cone makes it a favorite. Nearby, Black Sand and Biscuit Basins are noted for their colorful hot springs.
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\par The Old Faithful Visitor Center is open from mid-April to mid-October and from mid-December to mid-March. In addition to geyser eruption predictions, you'll find an informative film that plays throughout the day.
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\par The Old Faithful Inn, one of the largest log buildings in the world, was built in 1904. The lobby of this historic hostelry is well worth a walk-through, even if you aren't staying there. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 There are no campgrounds at Old Faithful, but accommodations in the village include the historic Old Faithful Inn (314 rooms, 9 suites), the Old Faithful Lodge (122 cabins), and the Snow Lodge (31 rooms, 34 cabins). To make reservations or inquire about rates, call AmFac Parks and Resorts at 307-344-7311.
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\par Amenities at Old Faithful Village include restaurants, a clinic, a post office, a gas station and auto service center, as well as picnic facilities, gift stores, and a general store.
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\par Old Faithful Snow Lodge is a hub for winter activity in the park, even though the only way to reach the Upper Geyser Basin is via snowmobile, cross-country skiing, or snowcoach. Many of the park's finest cross-country ski trails begin around the Upper Geyser Basin.
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\par The nearest campgrounds to Old Faithful Village are Grant Village to the east and Madison Campground to the north.\par \par Old Faithful\par PO Box 168\par Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190\par 307-344-7381
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Sorry, folks, but you can't fish off Fishing Bridge. The bridge spans the Yellowstone River as it flows north out of Yellowstone Lake, and is a fine place to spot trout. You just can't hook them here. Fishing is allowed at other spots along the lake shore and from boats; certain restrictions apply and a park permit is required, so ask a ranger for particulars before you cast your line.
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\par In addition to its close proximity to Yellowstone Lake and its fishing and boating opportunities, Fishing Bridge is only a few miles south of the roiling fumaroles of the Mud Volcano area, and only slightly northeast of the amenities at Lake Village and Bridge Bay. Hikers in search of wildlife will find Pelican Valley, approximately two miles east of Fishing Bridge, to be a prime spot to see pelicans and moose.
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\par The Fishing Bridge Visitor Center features exhibits and displays of park birds, fish, and other wildlife. It is open from mid-May to mid-September. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 You can reserve a spot for your RV at the privately maintained park at Fishing Bridge by calling AmFac Parks and Resorts at 307-344-7311. Because bears range in this area, only hard-sided camping vehicles are allowed. There are 341 paved sites with patios and full hookups, restrooms, showers, laundry, public phones, and security. The camping fee at Fishing Bridge is $26 per night. RV supplies are available at the camp store, and a gas station and repair shop are near the campground.\par \par Fishing Bridge\par PO Box 168\par Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190\par 307-344-7381
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Lake Village offers a choice of hotel rooms and cabins along the Yellowstone lakefront. Close to Bridge Bay, where you can book a scenic boat tour on the lake, and 21 miles north of West Thumb Geyser Basin, Lake Village is an ideal, central spot from which to stage your Yellowstone explorations.
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\par In addition to the Lake Lodge and the Yellowstone Lake Hotel, there are restaurants, shops, a ranger station, and the park hospital. Hiking and nature trails can be found in the vicinity, and there are picnic areas as well.
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\par You can watch for birds and wildlife along the lake; wildflowers abound in spring and summer. Fishing is allowed with a park permit; ask rangers about park regulations and limits. Rangers lead talks and other activities; a schedule is posted at the ranger station. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 There are no campgrounds at Lake Village, but 186 cabins are available at Lake Lodge and Cabins, and Lake Yellowstone Hotel and Cabins offers 296 units: 102 cabins, 193 rooms, and one luxurious hotel suite. There is a restaurant at the Lake Yellowstone Hotel; the Sun Room, a lounge overlooking the lake, is a good place to unwind after a busy day. To make reservations, or to obtain rates or other information, please call AmFac Parks and resorts at 307-344-7311.
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\par Nearby campgrounds include Bridge Bay (tent camping only) and Fishing Bridge (hard-sided RVs only).\par \par Lake Village\par PO Box 168\par Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190\par 307-344-7381
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Bridge Bay, on the shores of Yellowstone Lake, is an ideal, centrally located area from which to stage your visit to the park. If you didn't bring your own boat, you can rent one from the Bridge Bay Marina, or, if you don't want to take on piloting responsibilities yourself, scenic and fishing boat excursions can also be arranged. Trout are abundant in Yellowstone Lake and fishing is allowed with a valid park permit, but certain restrictions apply, so check with a ranger before you dip your line.
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\par Bison and moose are often seen in the meadows near Bridge Bay and along Gulf Point Road, and nearby Natural Bridge is an easy hike away. A bike trail also connects Bridge Bay with Natural Bridge. A ranger station and a general store are located in Bridge Bay. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 Bridge Bay Campground offers 429 unpaved sites (no hookups), which can be reserved in advance through AmFac Parks and Resorts at 307-344-7311. A dump station, restrooms, showers, laundry, and public phones are available. Campers may stay a maximum of 14 days for a fee of $15 a night.\par \par Bridge Bay\par PO Box 168\par Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190\par 307-344-7381
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Grant Village is located directly south of the West Thumb Geyser Basin, along the shore of Yellowstone Lake. The Grant Village Visitor Center features the dramatic "Yellowstone and Fire" exhibit, and many ranger-led activities originate here during the summer. In addition to the visitor center, Grant Village has a motel and restaurant, a campground, a boat launch, a post office, a gas station, and a general store. You can fish for trout in Yellowstone Lake with the proper park permit, but certain restrictions apply. Be sure to review all park fishing regulations before you set out on your fishing trip. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging.\plain\f0\fs20 The Grant Village Campground boasts 425 unpaved sites that may be reserved in advance through AmFac Parks and Resorts at 307-344-7311. Unreserved sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. There are no hookups, but a dump station, restrooms, showers, laundry, and public phones are provided. Campers may stay a maximum of 14 days for a fee of $15 per day.
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\par Grant Village Motel offers 300 reasonably priced rooms in season. For reservations or to inquire about rates, please call 303-297-2757.\par \par Grant Village\par PO Box 168\par Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190\par 307-344-7381
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Lewis Lake lies midway between the south entrance to Yellowstone and Grant Village. You can launch your motorboat or canoe from the ramp here and fish for trout in the lake with a valid park permit. Non-motorized boats are permitted to traverse the channel between Lewis and Shoshone Lakes; it is the only creek or river open to boating in the park.
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\par A Yellowstone permit is required for all boating within the park and can be purchased at Lake Ranger Station, Grant Visitor Center, Bridge Bay Marina, South Entrance, or Lewis Lake Campground. Both weekly and yearly passes are available. Boats longer than 40 feet are not allowed on park waters. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 Lewis Lake Campground has 85 unpaved campsites (no hookups) available on a first-come, first-served basis. There are vault toilets at the site. Campers can stay a maximum of 14 days, for a daily fee of $10.\par \par Lewis Lake\par PO Box 168\par Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190\par 307-344-7381
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Indian Creek Campground is located approximately halfway between Mammoth Hot Springs and Norris Geyser Basin on Upper Loop Road. The campground is convenient to Yellowstone's many attractions. Anglers will want to try for trout along Indian Creek and several of the other streams in the area. You'll need a valid park fishing permit; follow all park fishing regulations to the letter. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 There are 75 unpaved campsites here (no hookups), available on a first-come, first-served basis. The nightly camping fee is $10, and there are vault toilets at the campground. Campers may stay for a maximum of 14 days.\par \par Indian Creek Campground\par PO Box 168\par Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190\par 307-344-7381
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Yellowstone Lake, with its 110 miles of shoreline, is the largest alpine lake in the United States. An average of 139 feet deep, the lake reaches over 390 feet at its deepest point. The lake is the remainder of a much larger body of water that once filled most of the Yellowstone caldera. The lake now drains into the Atlantic Ocean through the Gulf of Mexico, but during its long life it has drained into the Pacific and into the Arctic Ocean through Hudson Bay.
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\par Boating is allowed on the lake with a park permit, and fishing for cutthroat and lake trout is allowed, with restrictions, if you have a valid park license. Be sure to obey park fishing regulations to the letter; they protect the spawning grounds of these aquatic natives. Because of its cold water temperature, rangers warn against swimming in Yellowstone Lake. West Thumb Geyser Basin, a small, water-filled caldera lined with hot springs and geysers, is located north of Grant Village, beside the lake.
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\par In winter the road that follows the lakeshore is groomed for snowmobiles. Cross-country skiers and hikers with snowshoes can also traverse the area.\par \par Yellowstone Lake\par PO Box 168\par Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190\par 307-344-7381
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Created by a volcanic eruption between 100,000 and 150,000 years ago, the West Thumb of Yellowstone Lake is a small, water-filled caldera whose continued thermal activity has spawned a host of lakeside, and even lake-covered, geysers and hot springs. A boardwalk winds around the basin, where you can take in geysers and mudpots with a lakefront view, and provides an option of a half-mile or a quarter-mile walk.
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\par Recent thermal activity at West Thumb illustrates the continued volatility of the Yellowstone Caldera. At this writing, features such as Percolating Spring no longer bubble and roil, while others, such as Abyss Pool, have recently erupted with explosive intensity. Yellowstone's deepest thermal pool, Abyss Pool varies in color from deep blue to striking emerald green. In August 1987 Abyss Pool erupted for the first time since 1905. It put on an amazing show several times daily during the winter of 1991-92, shooting water as high as 80 feet into the air. Today, it is dormant once again, allowing visitors a glimpse of its colorful depths through a deceptively calm window into the earth. The Thumb Paint Pots, once a fancifully colored grouping of mud pots the consistency of well-mixed gouache paint, all but dried up in the 1980s. Today they appear to be coming back to their former glory. Who knows what the future will bring?
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\par Tourists used to don chef's hats and pose as if they were about to dunk a fish on a line into the mouth of Fishing Cone, just off the shore at West Thumb. Mountain men bragged about being able to catch a trout in the lake, then swing around and dip it in the boiling water of this hot spring, cooking it right on the line. After one too many careless would-be fish cooks got injured in the attempt, West Thumb and Fishing Cone, which is sometimes completely submerged, were closed to fishing.
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\par Two longer loop trails, the two-mile Yellowstone Lake Overlook Trail and the one-mile Duck Lake Trail, offer a wider perspective of the West Thumb Caldera, Yellowstone Lake, and nearby Duck Lake.
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\par Winter access to West Thumb is via cross-country ski or snowshoe trails, and it is well worth a visit. During the frigid winter months, the hot springs that dot the lake bottom here attract otters in search of trout. The steam from the thermal features coats the trees of West Thumb with a shimmering patina of ice. A historic ranger cabin, built in 1925 and one of the few buildings of its kind left in the park, is used as a warming hut in winter. In summer, it serves as an information station for visitors.\par \par West Thumb Geyser Basin\par PO Box 168\par Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190\par 307-344-7381
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 "A most repulsive and terrifying sight"--that's how early visitors described Mud Volcano and the thermal features surrounding it. Sulfurous odors emanate from roiling, muddy pools. Mudpots burble and pop, sometimes lobbing clots of clay for yards into the air. An entire hillside warmed to over 200 degrees Fahrenheit literally cooks the roots of the trees and grasses that once thrived there. It is a unique, fascinating area of Yellowstone.
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\par Close to one of the major lava vents of the Yellowstone Caldera explosion, the Mud Volcano area is still extremely volatile. The muddy appearance and acrid odor of these fumaroles and springs is caused by the dissolution of surrounding soils by sulfuric acid. One of its most famous features, the Black Dragon's Cauldron, burst forth in early 1948, raining mud and uprooted trees over the surrounding landscape. Since then, it has migrated 200 feet south of its original location, an example of the shifting thermal activity within the area. A swarm of earthquakes in 1978-79 further changed the character of the Mud Volcano features, cooling off Sizzling Basin and heating up Cooking Hillside across the boardwalk. Prior to 1872, Mud Volcano was an impressive 30-foot-high cone of mud, prone to frequent, violent, and turbid eruptions, which eventually destroyed the cone. Today it seethes violently at times, but does not erupt. And change here isn't simply volcanic, either. Grizzly Fumarole changes seasonally, depending on water from snowmelt and rain, going from a burbling mudpot in winter and spring, to a stretch of viscous mudcones in summer, to little more than a collection of steam vents in autumn.
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\par A trail loops less than a mile from the parking lot through this bizarre, eerie, odoriferous landscape, giving you a close look at features such as Sour Lake, Churning Cauldron, Dragon's Mouth Spring, and, of course, Mud Volcano. Across the road, you'll find Sulfur Cauldron, yellow as a traffic sign. One of the most acidic springs in the park, the waters of Sulfur Cauldron rival the pH of battery acid.
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\par Located along the Lower Loop Road, Mud Volcano makes an interesting stop on the route between Canyon Village and Fishing Bridge.
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\par In winter, the road past Mud Volcano is groomed for snowmobile travel; trails in the area are limited to cross-country skiers and hikers with snowshoes. The area is subject to closure, especially in spring, if grizzly bears, who use it as a feeding ground, are present.\par \par Mud Volcano\par PO Box 168\par Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190\par 307-344-7381
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Colter Bay Village, on the eastern shore of Jackson Lake, is the site of the Colter Bay Visitor Center and Indian Arts Museum. Here, you can take in both contemporary and ancient Native American artwork. Films about park wildlife and indigenous peoples are available for view at the visitor center, as is a park orientation slide program. Hike the 3-mile Swan Lake Nature Trail, or arrange a horseback ride at the village stables. Rent a boat from the local marina, or fish from shore. There are two restaurants and a snack bar, should you build up an appetite. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 Colter Bay Lodge offers both log cabins, most complete with bathroom and showers, and tent cabins with community restroom facilities. Contact the Grand Teton Lodge Company, 307-543-2811 for information, rates, and reservations. The Lodge Company also operates an RV park at Colter Bay, offering 112 gravel sites, each with complete hookups (sewer, electricity, and water). Most sites are either back-in or pull-through, and campers may stay a maximum of 14 days. Rates range from $19 to $25 per day, and, while showers are not included, they are available for a nominal fee.
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\par The National Park Service operates a 350-site campground at Colter Bay Village, with grass sites and no hookups. Sites are offered on a first-come, first-served basis, and campers may stay a maximum of 14 days at a rate of $12 per day. A dump station and restroom facilities are available at the campground. A snack bar, a coin laundry, and showers are located at Colter Bay Village complex nearby as well as shops that offer a variety of wares, from gifts to groceries, and the automotive service center sells gas and has mechanics on site.
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\par Campgrounds, cabins, and other amenities observe varying seasonal schedules. Please contact either the Grand Teton Lodge Company or the park to confirm dates of operation.\par \par Colter Bay Village\par PO Drawer 170\par Grand Teton National Park\par Moose, WY 83012\par 307-739-3300\par 307-739-3600
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Located south of Colter Bay Village, Jackson Lake Lodge provides visitors resort accommodations with spectacular mountain views. The lodge is situated near Jackson Lake and is close to the prime bird- and wildlife-watching areas of Willow Flats and Oxbow Bend. Snake River float trips can be arranged at the lodge, while the local stable can set up a horseback-riding excursion for you.
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\par Indian artifacts and western art are on display in the lodge's guest lounge, which also provides a view of the Tetons from 60-foot windows. The Mural Room offers table service, western cuisine, and stunning Teton views, while the Pioneer Grill provides counter service for snacks and light meals. The Blue Heron Lounge serves up cocktails and live entertainment. Additional amenities include a heated outdoor pool, a medical clinic, a service station, and convention facilities for up to 600 guests. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 At Jackson Lake Lodge, you can choose to stay in the main lodge, which offers 37 guest rooms, or in one of 348 guest cabin accommodations situated in the surrounding area. To make reservations or to obtain additional information, contact Grand Teton Lodge Company, 307-543-2811.
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\par The nearest campgrounds are located at Signal Mountain Lodge to the south of Jackson Lake Lodge. Colter Bay Village, to the north, offers both a park-run campground and a privately operated RV park.
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\par Please note: Dates of operation vary each year, so call ahead for up-to-date information.\par \par Jackson Lake Lodge\par PO Drawer 170\par Grand Teton National Park\par Moose, WY 83012\par 307-543-2811
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Views from the summit of Signal Mountain, the highest elevation in the valley, are among the most spectacular in the park. Nearby, Willow Flats and Oxbow Bend are prime locations for sighting elk, moose, and elegant blue herons, in season. Sorry, but due to road conditions, trailers and motorhomes are not permitted on the road to the summit.
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\par There is a lodge and campground located on the southeast shore of Jackson Lake, near the foot of Signal Mountain. Other local amenities include a marina, gift shops, a grocery and gas station, two restaurants, and a cocktail lounge. The scenic Chapel of the Sacred Heart is located close by, to the north. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging.\plain\f0\fs20 Privately operated Signal Mountain Lodge offers 79 cabins with bath, some with kitchenettes. To make reservations or to obtain additional information, please contact the lodge at 307-543-2831 or 307-733-5470.
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\par Signal Mountain Campground, operated by the National Park Service on a first-come, first-served basis, offers 86 grass sites (no hookups). Restrooms and a dump station are available on site. Campers may stay a maximum of 14 days, for a fee of $12 per day. Contact the park for further information.\par \par Signal Mountain\par PO Drawer 170\par Grand Teton National Park\par Moose, WY 83012\par 307-739-3300\par 307-739-3600
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 Do you harbor dreams of donning your spurs and chaps and riding the range? At Triangle X Ranch you can become a member of a working dude ranch and indulge your western fantasies in the shadow of the majestic Tetons. At Triangle X, you can take part in horseback riding excursions and pack trips, river floats, and western-style cookouts. Hunting and fishing opportunities are also available. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 The Triangle X Ranch offers full-service accommodations including room and board. It is open from May to November. For more information, contact this concession at 307-733-3612.
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\par The nearest campground is located at Signal Mountain. A tents-only campground is located at Jenny Lake.\par \par Triangle X Ranch\par PO Drawer 170\par Grand Teton National Park\par Moose, WY 83012\par 307-733-3612\par ___-___-____
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 One look at the Tetons reflected in the smooth surface of Jenny Lake and you'll know why this is one of the most popular areas of the park. Jenny Lake Lodge, with its elegant duplex cabins and fine dining, is located along the one-way Jenny Lake Scenic Drive. The lodge is ideally situated, with access to easy hiking trails around Jenny Lake and along Leigh Lake. A visitor center, store, boat dock, ranger station, and campground are located nearby at South Jenny Lake. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 Thirty-seven duplex cabins surround the main lodge, which provides breakfast, lunch, and a six-course dinner in its award-winning dining room. Breakfast and dinner are included in the daily room rate, as is the use of lodge bicycles. To make reservations or to obtain further information, call 307-543-2811.
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\par There is a tents-only campground at South Jenny Lake. The nearest campground for RVs is at Signal Mountain, to the north.\par \par Jenny Lake Lodge\par PO Drawer 170\par Grand Teton National Park\par Moose, WY 83012\par 307-543-2811\par 307-733-4647
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 The reflection of the Tetons on the smooth waters of Jenny Lake is one of the most rare and most beautiful sights the park can afford. Many say Jenny Lake is the scenic heart of Grand Teton National Park, and summer traffic jams can attest to the area's popularity.
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\par To escape the crowd, get away from your car and walk just a bit. A six-mile loop trail takes you around the lake; another mile takes you to lovely Hidden Falls and take in the view from Inspiration Point. Hike a short distance into Cascade Canyon for a closer, more intimate view of the Tetons. Or, if you prefer not to hike that far, shuttle boats leave from the dock at South Jenny Lake on a regular schedule during the summer. They'll drop you off a mere half mile from Hidden Falls. Mountaineers, climbers, and backcountry hikers should obtain overnight permits at the Jenny Lake Ranger Station. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 A 49-site campground provides spaces for tents only near the shore of Jenny Lake. There is a camp store nearby, and water and restrooms are available at the site. The daily camping fee is $12, and all sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Campers may stay a maximum of seven days. Get there early; in summer the campground can fill up by 8 AM.
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\par The closest campground with space for RVs is located at Signal Mountain, to the north.\par \par South Jenny Lake\par PO Drawer 170\par Grand Teton National Park\par Moose, WY 83012\par 307-739-3300\par 307-739-3600
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 On the northeast shore of Jackson Lake, Lizard Creek Campground is convenient to Colter Bay Village and to Yellowstone National Park to the north. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 Lizard Creek Campground offers 60 sites (no hookups) on a first-come, first-served basis. Water and restrooms are available. Campers may stay a maximum of 14 days at a rate of $12 per day.\par \par Lizard Creek Campground\par PO Drawer 170\par Grand Teton National Park\par Moose, WY 83012\par 307-739-3300\par 307-739-3600
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 The southernmost campground in Grand Teton National Park, Gros Ventre often has spaces after other park campgrounds are filled to capacity. Located near Moose Visitor Center and related services, Gros Ventre is also within easy driving distance of the galleries, shops, and cafes of Jackson, to the south. \b
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\par Camping and Other Lodging. \plain\f0\fs20 Gros Ventre Campground offers 360 gravel sites (no hookups) on a first-come, first-served basis. A dump station, restrooms, and fresh water are provided. Campers may stay a maximum of 14 days, at a daily rate of $12. Other accommodations are available in the park or in Jackson, WY.\par \par Gros Ventre Campground\par PO Drawer 170\par Grand Teton National Park\par Moose, WY 83012\par 307-739-3300\par 307-739-3600
\b Overview.\plain\f0\fs20 The Moose Visitor Center, near the southern entrance to Grand Teton National Park, is the center of winter activity in the park. If you're visiting then, stop by to pick up maps of cross-country ski and snowshoe trails, and for updated weather and avalanche information. The visitor center provides general park information year-round. A general store, gas station, and food service are available at Moose, and it is also the site of Park Headquarters. Granite Canyon and Death Canyon Trailheads are accessible from secondary roads leading from Moose, and there are raft launching sites on the shore of the Snake River nearby.
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\par Close at hand, a short self-guided trail leads to Menor's Noble historic district, where you can learn about homesteading in this rugged terrain. The altar window of the Chapel of the Transfiguration, also close by, looks out on the glorious peaks of the Teton Range. The Teton Science School lies east of Moose Junction and offers one- to five-day seminars on various scientific and ecological topics. Consult the park for more information.\par \par Moose Visitor Center\par PO Drawer 170\par Grand Teton National Park\par Moose, WY 83012\par 307-739-3300\par 307-739-3399
Located between Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks in the John D. Rockefeller, Jr., Memorial Parkway, this ranch has long served as a stopping point for travelers. Before Yellowstone was established in 1872, the ranch was a fort on the Snake River. Later, a few cabins were built on the waterway. Today the ranch is conveniently located where the highway crosses the Snake. At the modern lodge, travelers may sit down to a meal in the restaurant or browse through the gift shop.
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\par During the snowy winter, Flagg Ranch serves as a base for accessing Yellowstone. Because heavy snows close Yellowstone roads, snowmobiles and snow coaches are the only ways into the park. Flagg Ranch rents snowmobiles to visitors who would like to take advantage of Yellowstone's winter recreational opportunities. Some facilities are closed between mid-March and mid-May, and then again between mid-October and mid-December.
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\par Flagg Ranch welcomes visitors who cannot find overnight spots in the national parks. The campground offers 100 RV sites and 45 tent sites. Because of the snow, the campgrounds are closed between mid-October and mid-May. Flagg Ranch recently built 50 cabins, and another 40 cabins are planned; at the motel, you'll find 54 rooms. Be sure to call ahead for reservation information, especially during the busy summer season. The indoor lodgings are available during the winter. \par \par Flagg Ranch\par PO Box 187\par Moran, WY 83013\par 307-543-2861
Every night during the summer the "Shootout Gang" starts evening festivities as they pursue old-time "badmen" through the town square. Relics of the wild early days are shown at the Jackson Hole Museum, and the National Museum of Wildlife Art has a premier collection of wildlife paintings and sculptures. Two theaters stage Western-style musical comedies. Spend more peaceful evenings at Festival Hall in Teton Village where symphony and musical programs are featured during the six-week Grand Teton Music Festival, staged annually in late June to late August.
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\par Teton Village is home to the Jackson Hole Ski & Summer Resort where an aerial tram will carry you to the panoramic views atop Rendezvous Mountain. Attend rodeos, raft the rivers, take a covered wagon trek, or visit the National Elk Refuge and ride on the sleighs that take food to the elk, mid-December to March.\par \par Jackson\par 532 N Cache\par PO Box E\par Jackson Information Center\par Jackson, WY 83001\par 307-733-3316
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