5 Little Known Places That Every Traveler Should Visit

Description: Discover unknown travel destinations and how to travel for free. Delve into this article which presents you with amazing locations from all around the world and chooses your favorite destinations. Read everything you need to know!

Traveling is an activity that will provide every person with a huge amount of confidence, knowledge, and experience. It can also be an excellent deviation from the day-to-day mundane life, which can only serve to increase the stress levels. If the person is a seasoned explorer or they are traveling just for the sake of fun, it is ideal to plan out the travel in such a way that it manages to cover some of the incredible and stunning places in the world. Every traveler will be going to see the commonly explored regions, which usually attract a huge number of tourists throughout the year, of the world.

However, traveling can become even more fun when the individual knows about the best places to visit which are not thronged by tourists. After identifying such a destination, it is important to pack the travel bag and head out exploring the world. Here are some of the six places that do not get a lot of attention but is still a must-visit for every wanderlust.

Turkmenistan’s Door to Hell

Turkmenistan may not be everyone’s cup of tea when it comes to thinking about a travel destination. However, it has one element that makes it a must visit for the traveler. The Darvaza gas crater – or ‘Door to Hell’ as it is popularly known – is a large crater located in the Ahal Province of Turkmenistan. It is a natural gas field but it collapsed into a crater a few decades ago. In order to prevent the escape of methane gas, geologists intentionally set fire to the place but it has not stopped burning since 1971. It is quite a popular destination amongst the serious travelers and more than 50,000 have visited the site in the last five years.

It is extremely dangerous to go near the crater due to the intense heat and 2014 was the first time a human set foot at the bottom. Explorer George Kourounis was able to place his feet on the bottom after being well protected with thermal insulation. He ended up collecting samples of microorganisms from the bottom.

The fact that the crater has been burning non-stop for more than 40 years has made it a must-visit tourist destination in the world.

Spitsbergen’s Pyramiden

Spitsbergen happens to be an archipelago that is located in Norway high up in the Arctic Circle and it is difficult to spot on a travel map. It is one of the closest destinations to the North Pole. Unsurprisingly, it is a very remote destination and visitors are likely to encounter more polar bears than people. However, Russians used to live in this place not too long ago when it was a mining town. However, it has been deserted since the early 1990s. Today, only a few scientists and Russian guides are capable of living there and continuing their research. Few tourists do make it up to this place in order to witness the reminiscent of a proper Arctic town.

Unlike many of the travel destinations that can be visited throughout the year, it should be remembered that Pyramiden is accessible only during high season. Once the peak season goes away, it is almost impossible to access Pyramiden through a boat. Now, the likes of a snowmobile become the only source of travel. It is certainly not one of the places to travel alone.

A strong reason to visit Pyramiden is to experience the Arctic ghost town in its full glory. It is possible to explore all the abandoned buildings but one needs to just keep an eye out for the polar bears.

Pacific’s Vanuatu Island

The Pacific is the home to numerous islands, which offers spectacular tourist destinations. There are a lot of archipelagos that attracts thousands of tourists every year, but this in itself spoils the beauty of the same. This destination, however, has the potential to offer more than just any tourist resorts or cruise destination, according to travel blogs. An ideal archipelago should come with a deep blue ocean, excellent weather, and deserted beaches. Even though Vanuatu island happens to possess all these features in great abundance, it is not thronging with a lot of tourists. Since it is listed as an endangered country due to natural hazards like volcanoes, earthquakes, and tropical storms, it is least frequented by travelers.

Even though there is a risk of natural hazards, it also results in a paradise that tourists can enjoy as if it was one of their own. Any tourist who wants to have that feeling of excitement at the back of their mind must visit Vanuatu Island. There are few places in the world where one can stare at a potential volcano eruption whilst still basking in the deep blue ocean. It is also possible to stare into a crater filled with magma or snorkel in deep blue oceans.

Bhutan’s Tiger’s Nest Monastery

Bhutan is famous for a load of monasteries that are dotted around this country. However, there is one monastery that is iconic than the rest – Tiger’s Nest. It is one of the best places to travel when young due to its location. This structure is situated on a cliff near the Paro Valley. There is a huge deal of tradition and history that is associated with the country and the various monasteries, but there is not much to come out of Tiger’s Nest – due to its difficult location. It is possible to get some amazing views of the mountains and forests around. Every visitor is allowed inside the monastery but reaching it is actually one of the most difficult tasks. One needs to hike for around five hours through extremely dense forests and also climb over a waterfall in order to reach the monastery.

Bhutan is located high in the Himalayas and it is widely perceived that the people in this country are among the happiest. The Kingdom of Bhutan has a philosophy index that is used to measure the happiness of its citizens. Bhutan is also famous for never having been colonized in history and this makes it very authentic in terms of culture and tradition. It is not surprising that Bhutan is not one of the unknown travel destinations but not many people know about the Tiger’s Nest. The trek and the hardship required in order to reach the monastery may be immense, but it will be well worth the journey. Since it is not meant for every individual, it also happens to be quite an expensive trek.

Tuvalu

Tuvalu is certainly not one of the destinations that will come to the mind when thinking of how to travel for free. It is because this remote island in the Pacific Ocean can be a haven for nature lovers with its pristine waters and uncluttered beauty. However, it is slowly disappearing off the radar due to global warming, which is having a major impact on such beautiful nations. The warming climate has led to a significant decline in the ability to habitat this island. Sea levels have risen a lot in recent years and this has affected the inhabitants of Tuvalu, who are forced to undergo drastic measures in order to save their livelihood and homes.

Unknown Travel Destinations Are Amazing

There are a number of places that have been marked in danger due to global warming. Even Australia’s Great Barrier Reef is not immune to the warming of our planet. The low-lying countries like Bangladesh still have the ability to tide over a few decades before they get trapped in the system of rising sea levels, but the same cannot be said about Tuvalu, which is already facing a major fight just to keep away the sea waters. It may well become the first country in the world to drown. As a result, it happens to be a must-have in the grand circle travel plans before the island is gone for good. Even though it may be just like every other Pacific island with white sand and deep blue waters, the history associated with the island along with the likelihood of not witnessing the same in the next few years certainly makes it a valuable addition in the small travel trailers.

All the six places are must visit for a traveler who is looking to get in the off-beaten path and visit some of the lesser-known destinations in the world.

Author`s bio:

Charles is a freelance writer and webmaster of  essaywritersite.com. His main hobby is to visit little-known places in different parts of the world and share his impressions with others.

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The Significance Of Wearing A High Visibility Jacket

Not all companies need clothing as a uniform because it doesn’t look good. But when it comes to the working environment where the hazards are marginal like construction sites and the working area where using vehicle is common may cause significant injuries. Companies definitely provide training to their workers and provide proper tools to make sure that they are visible as possible.

Construction worker, police officer, traffic directors and any other worker of the industry always wear high Visibility clothing. We should say thanks to them because they take the risk of being injured. There are two main purposes of wearing the visibility jacket. One that is visible and another make them stand out against their environmental background. It is mostly found in two colors that are yellow and orange. You might be thinking that what the significances of wearing a high visibility jacket are, so let’s discuss some of the focus views that are valuable for you to know.

It is visible because it comes in a bright color

One of the main and basic significant of wearing a high visibility jacket is that it is in bright colors that are more visible. This clothing is not only easier for a motorist to see workers at night, but it also makes them more visible during the daytime. Of course, it will not look good to wear Avengers Endgame Hoodie while working.

It reduces the risk of accidents

Of course, people who work in an industrial area may suffer many risks of accidents, wearing this jacket will definitely help you to reduce the risk of accidents. It increases the overall safety of workers in these workplaces.

It reduces the risk of death

Road accidents may increase the chances of death and during training they provide, there is still an increased chance of accidents. These visibilities jackets make workers more visible that can significantly reduce the chance of a life-threatening accident from happening.

Everyone can gather just on one whistle

If workers are far from the company and busy doing their work, then they may not get the sound of the whistle. You can identify them through their clothing and bright color. It would be easy for you to call them through the actions of your hands.

Good for the motorcyclist

Most of the bike accidents occur because car driver may not see the presence of the biker in the dark and they hit the riders. Wearing the amazing bright color jacket may keep you secure from the damage. Car riders can see your visibility easily and take good care when they will drive.

Significant for everyone nowadays

You might be thinking that is this only for the workers or police officers, of course not. It can also wear by a motorcyclist, cyclist, runners, walkers, and kids who are outside in the dark or dim lighting. It is the basic choice of everyone who has the kids or who works outside regularly.

You will surely be inspired some of these substantial facts like the benefits of ordering from MoviesJacket will definitely be helpful for you. Get some reasons for purchasing visibility jacket and keep yourself secure from the mishap.

Author Bio:

I am Kathleen Swafford passionate of internet stuff such as blogging, affiliate marketing and most importantly, I like to trade domain and website. If you are inside digital marketing, let’s connect us for future opportunities.

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10 Cheap Gear Alternatives Student Hikers Love

The home lends itself to eating delicious food and keeping comfort, but for the thrill-seekers, the mountainsides are the chance to bring out the hiking gear. There are several suitable slopes around the world that wait to be explored. The biggest hurdle comes when you don’t have the proper gear to use in your adventure.   

If you’re a passionate hiker or camper, you have few options available and the only way out is to spend money. Unfortunately, getting outside has become more expensive than before.

So, how can you save your hard-earned money from purchasing these expensive hiking gear and still go for a life-changing experience? This article will reveal 10 cheap backpacking gear that student hikers love to use when they go out for hiking. 

1. Sticks vs. Hiking Poles

Hiking in rugged and slippery parts of slopes can test your bravado. Some of the terrains have rocky areas which can be dangerous when it’s wet. Thankfully, mother nature is always present to provide you with hiking sticks.

Rather than part with your money on some fancy sticks, you can find your own hiking sticks which perform similar functions as the hiking poles. This can be part of your DIY backpacking gear that you can take along when you go hiking.

Student hikers love using hiking sticks as they don’t have to pay any fee for them. If you’re lucky, you can find the sticks which are strong and lightweight and are better than the hiking poles from the store. 

2. Empty Gatorade Bottles

Gatorade should be applauded for manufacturing strong and durable bottles that contain sugary water. The Gatorade bottle is a thick plastic bottle that is known to resist well to wear and tear.

Hiking sometimes takes place in places where there is no potable water, so students don’t need to purchase fancy metal water bottles on their hiking trips.   

Many people vouch that this plastic bottle is an ideal alternative if you are keen on saving some money. Whether it’s metal water bottles or hydration bladder, you will need to spend a reasonable amount of money to buy them. But a reusable Gatorade will not cost you a penny and it will keep your water safe. 

3. Regular Athletic Clothing

There is something to be said about regular athletic clothing, they are good enough for any type of hiking. Athletic or hiking clothing are designed to be used for any outdoor sporting activity and this includes hiking. The regular athletic clothing is well-designed and durable to last you the entire hiking.

The only difference between regular athletic clothing and hiking clothing is their prices. You can purchase cheap hiking gear such as regular athletic clothing at half the cost of hiking clothing in most retail shops.

4. Pair of Frog Toggs instead of rain pants

You have to prepare for anything when you go hiking, and the rainy conditions are the hallmark of most terrains. Frog Toggs are the rain gear of choice for most students who go hiking.

Few rain pants come any close to the wide range of functions that Frogg Toggs perform. They are comfortable, durable, and lightweight which is a huge benefit because they lighten your pack.

In addition, Frog Toggs are a good water-repellent and have adjustable straps which can be used to hold to your body to prevent the cold winds or snow from getting inside.  The students love this cheap hiking gear because you can get them without lightening their wallets.

5. Plastic bags instead of dry bags  

If there is one thing that hikers need most, it’s the dry bag. They want to keep their gear dry at all cost, but a plastic bag does an equally good job. Plastic bags provide an only option if you’re looking for a budget backpacking gear.

College students who are going out for hiking as part of their school program should consider taking plastic bags which will keep their hiking gear dry from the wet conditions.

Whether it’s hiking in the US or a music festival in Europe, you need to be prepared to the hilt. The moment you plan hiking, make sure to buy plastic bags because they are cheaper than the dry bags.   

6. Running Shoes vs. Backpacking Boots  

Trails are different and it’s not always necessary to purchase expensive backpacking boots. If you’re going on a flat trail that doesn’t need a lot of climbing, it’s not rugged, or slippery, you might need only your pair of running shoes which you can use.   

They might come short by not providing the proper traction or protection that the backpacking boots would.

Still, if you are serious about getting a budget backpacking gear, this is your only way out. They would also help you to take a long walk in easier trails, unlike the backpacking boots.     

7. Wal-Mart Woolies vs. Fancy Hiking Socks

Hiking is all about tackling challenging terrains and it can take a huge impact on your hiking gear. If you have the stamina to spend more hours on the terrain, chances are, your hiking socks will be affected.

The socks also get a big knock when you spend time walking through the mud and rivers. So, even the fancy hiking socks cannot withstand such a torrid treatment.

Purchasing cheaper socks that can be disposed of at the end of the hike is a better option. You can get more pairs of Wal-Mart Woolies for the same amount of the fancy hiking socks.   

8. Mug vs. Camping Specific Dinner Sets

Hiking involves spending time outdoors and you don’t expect to find luxurious things that are found in your home. All you need is one mug to cater to your needs while hiking and not a camping specific dinner sets. You might get a plastic mug or enamel mug that you got for free.

With this in mind, a mug is ideal when it comes to drinking tea or coffee. If it’s bowl-shaped, you can even put meals that you cook and eat from the same mug. Most outdoor stores keep this kind of mugs at affordable prices.

9. Plastic Bags vs. Expensive Dry Sacs

Professional hikers have an opportunity to choose durable and expensive dry sacs because they go out hiking most of the times. They can’t afford to be purchasing a new dry sac every time they take these adventures. However, it’s not often that students who go for hiking buy expensive dry sacs.

Most of the students prefer taking plastic bags when they participate in the outdoor school activities to keep their hiking gear dry. They are cheaper and perform the same function as the dry sacs. After all, some students are not passionate hikers and might never go for hiking again.     

10. Aluminum Pot

One of the aims for hiking is to appreciate the unsentimental beauty of the landscape that reveals itself to the eye. For that reason, you want to avoid carrying hiking items that are heavy as they would overburden you.

Aluminum pots are lightweight compared to titanium and they are easy to carry. It’s even better if you have a homemade pot which performs as good as the expensive pots.

The biggest advantage is that aluminum pots are affordable and will not affect your budget. If you are planning to go hiking, you can get camping aluminum pots in most local camping stores.

Conclusion

Hiking can take you to extremes and chances are, you are bound to get tired legs and arms. This can force you to seek a place where you can take a rest. While most of the trails have camping sites, you still need to find out all the amenities that they provide.

Overall, if you are going out for hiking, proper preparation is the key to a successful outing.  All the hiking gear should be carried with you as they will play a major role in your success. Student hikers have to remember that there are cheaper gear alternatives that they can use on hikes.

Author Bio

Robert Everett’s life is about two things – writing travel and adventure blogs for essay writing service located in London and hiking. He has covered many trails across the US, in Europe, and in Canada. No surprise that he lives near Coastal Trail in Pukaskwa NP and he is familiar with every step of it. Other than that, he loves watching movies and documentaries and spending time with his two lovely daughters.

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Tips For Choosing A Good Tent

Looking to buy a suitable tent for your next outdoor camping? There are a number of things you have to get right to be able to settle for the best option. That is because tents come in numerous shades and types.

Getting to know the factors to consider is, by all means, a good way to start out. We have stepped in to offer you the necessary guidance to that effect. Read on till the end of the discussions to get to know what to pay attention to.

Sleeping Capacity

This refers to the total number of occupants the tent is able to accommodate at any given time. For you to arrive at the best tent on the basis of this consideration, you have to determine whether you will go out alone or in the company of others.

If you are planning to go out with others, look for a larger tent. If you plan to go alone, find one that is small enough for yourself only. Ask the store owner of the capacity of the tent before determining to place a purchase or not.

Tent Seasonality

When exactly do you intend to go out camping? Is it in the summer, spring, winter, or fall? It is necessary to consider this as well before selecting the most suitable tent for your use. That is because a tent that is intended for say summer use may not offer much help in the spring and vice versa.

While on the lookout for the right tent on the basis of this consideration, check out its thickness, the fabric which is used to make it, the number of ventilation holes, and texture of the material used to make it up.

Material Composition

It is necessary that the tent you use is strong and durable. This is to guarantee awesome performance and perseverance to the common agents of wear and tear. At the same time, you also want to confront the least possible set of challenges while cleaning and maintaining it.

That is why you also want to ensure that the waterproof tent is also machine washable. Some of the most reliable materials are canvass, cuben fiber, silicone, nylon, and Polyurethane. Do prioritize them over and above the ordinary kinds of materials.

Tent Type

Tents, as stated, come in diverse shades and forms. These variations definitely have some bearing on their applicability, longevity, and suitability for the various kinds of tasks. Some of the common kinds of tents are inflatable air tents, ridge tents, dome tents, tunnel tents, pop-up tents, and so on.

It is yet again in your best interest to delineate their advantages and weigh them against your own tastes and preferences. That way, it will be possible for you to arrive at the most appropriate bone for your impending outdoor camping.

Price

Finding the right tent for your outdoor camping ought not to be a life and death affair. It is indeed possible and advisable to expend the least realistic amount of money to acquire one. To be able to achieve this feat, start by ascertaining your unique preferences and expectations.

Thereafter, compare the prices of the various tents on sale while at the same time weighing them against your expectations. Lastly, settle on that which is both affordable and suited for the desires and interests you will have identified.

Size

A tent is not an item you use every now and then. As a matter of fact, you will mostly store yours for a longer duration and use it only occasionally. Given that you will store yours for a large part, you want to buy that which is small and compact in size.

Most importantly, you also want to be sure that you have sufficient storage space in your premise. It is not wise to buy a tent that is too large to carry or inconvenient to store at all.

Durability and Versatility

For your convenience of use and utmost peace of mind, you want to lay your hand on a tent which is both durable and highly versatile. It is never desirable to buy a tent which is more likely to break down every now and then and hence require constant repairs and maintenance.

A good tent on the basis of this consideration has to be tough, possess tight seams, and reinforced for adequate strength. It should also ideally be able to withstand and work well in various kinds of seasons.

Weather Resistance

It is also necessary that the best tents for rain be resistant to the common weather elements as much as possible. That is necessary to let the tent discharge reliable services and performance at all times and regardless of the prevailing environmental conditions.

For a tent to be able to discharge this role or benefit, it has to be strong and extremely thick. It’s material composition should also be such that it is able to retain its stature intact regardless of the variations in the external conditions.

Conclusion

Due to the limited time and space at our disposal, we inevitably had to leave out a couple of other equally desirable and significant factors. Examples of these include brand, warranty, color, and operational mechanism. Feel free to take over from where we have left.

Since tents are not items you purchase every quite often, it is necessary that you give the issue some fair degree of seriousness and due diligence. Best of luck in your next search for a suitable tent!

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The Best Clothing For Your Next Outdoor Adventure

The weather is getting warmer, which means it’s time to get outside and enjoy the fresh air. After being cooped up all winter, there’s nothing like getting out to stretch your legs and knock the dust of winter from your soul.

Whether you are heading out for a few hours or for a weekend trip, you want to make sure that you have the right gear. This includes not only enough water and food to give you the energy to get through the day and to stay hydrated, but it also means having the right men’s hiking pants, among other gear, to keep you protected and warm.

Best Shoes

One of the most important things you’ll need to pack when heading into the wilderness is the right shoes. You’ll need a pair that is both comfortable and can protect your feet from whatever the trail or nature throws at you.

There are a variety of shoes to choose from, including hiking boots and sneakers. You’ll have to decide which ones are the most comfortable for you, but some things to keep in mind is that they should fit properly. Too tight and they will make your feet hurt. This will make it difficult to walk from one location to the next. If they are too loose, they may cause blisters to form, and these can be painful.

If possible, they should also be waterproof. You never know if you are going to encounter water on your adventure, whether it’s in the form of a stream or a mud hole. Having wet feet can make the rest of the day uncomfortable, as well as allow the growth of fungi on your feet.

Best Clothes

You’ll also need to make sure that you have the right clothes. Finding the best hiking pants for women will also come down to personal preference. However, like shoes, these shouldn’t be too tight or too loose either. Both can cause problems while walking through the wilderness.

Dressing in layers can also be beneficial. A t-shirt or tank top should be the bottom layer, then put a long-sleeved shirt over that. For pants, having a pair that can convert from long pants into shorts is ideal. This will ensure that you have the necessary clothes if it gets hot or cold. Having a jacket that also doubles as a windbreaker can also be incredibly advantageous.

Now that the weather is getting warmer, the call of the outdoors will be difficult to ignore. Whether you are gone for a few hours or a few days, make sure you have the right clothing to get you through.

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10 Best Hikes In America

Dedicated hikers know that for the very best vistas and chances to spot wildlife, you’ve got to be willing to lace up your hiking boots and make the trek. And, with 52 million acres of national parks, 18 million acres of state parks, and millions more at the local level, the United States is one of the very best places to do it. These winding trails and wide-open spaces provide unmatched views, excellent wildlife watching opportunities, and incredible nature scenes you won’t find anywhere else.

Here are 10 of the best hikes in America, ranked with help from the AllTrails community.

1. Angels Landing Trail; Zion National Park, Utah – This 4.1-mile five-star hike is one of the most-reviewed hikes on AllTrails, with over 2,000 ratings. With an elevation gain of 1,600 feet and some insane switchbacks (see photo!), this mountainous trek takes you high above Zion Canyon. This one’s not for those fearful of heights, as it’s rated difficult and features many steep edges. The final half-mile of the trail follows a steep ridge with anchored support chains, but the reward is well worth it! From the sheer cliff at Angels Landing, you’ll soak up some incredible views of Zion Canyon down below, as long as you’re not afraid of heights.

2. Emerald Lake Trail; Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado – As the most popular hike in the Rockies, this splendid ramble is surprisingly easy. It’s a 3.1-mile out-and-back taking you up into the pine-covered hills, with breathtaking views at every angle. The trail traverses past several alpine lakes and finally ends at the pristine Emerald Lake, which is well worth the effort. Views of Flattop Mountain, Hallett Peak, and Glacier Gorge make this one especially memorable. It’s a real bucket list hike for those who aren’t especially comfortable with long, difficult hikes.

3. Rattlesnake Ledge Trail; Rattlesnake Mountain Scenic Area, Washington – Located just an hour and a half east of Seattle, Rattlesnake Ledge Trail is a longtime favorite among Washingtonians and visitors. The moderate-rated, 5.1-miler is known for its breathtaking views from the top of Rattlesnake Ridge, where hikers can catch unspoiled glimpses of Mount Si and Mount Washington as well as the stunning Rattlesnake Lake.

4. Devil’s Bridge Trail; Coconino National Forest, Arizona – Located in Sedona, Devil’s Bridge Trail is the most popular hike in Arizona. The heavily trafficked 4.2-mile trail provides spectacular vistas of Devil’s Bridge, the largest natural sandstone arch in the Sedona area. The awe-inspiring red rocks, wildflowers, and wildlife make this hike extremely popular among tourists, so make sure to hike early in the morning to avoid the crowd.

5. Potato Chip Rock; Lake Poway Park, California – Despite its name, Potato Chip Rock is no picnic! This 7.6-mile out-and-back trail is rated as hard and takes you to an elevation gain of over 2,000 feet, so make sure to pack your most dependable hiking gear. On this trail, you’ll climb through treacherously narrow corridors and rough, steep switchbacks. But the views are well worth it, as Potato Chip Rock and Mount Woodson provide fantastic views of the Pacific Ocean and Lake Poway down below. The rock itself is a sight to behold, with its slim, potato chip-like shape that juts out over the canyon.

6. Alum Cave Trail; Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee – Proving that the best hikes aren’t all out west, Alum Cave trail offers serious hikers some of the very best views East of the Mississippi. But this one’s not a breeze, either! It traverses for 10.7 miles up Mount Le Conte and offers an elevation gain of over 3,000 feet, taking hikers past Arch Rock with views of Duck Hawk Ridge and the Eye of the Needle. Waterfalls, caves, and mountain vistas don’t disappoint at Alum Cave Trail.

7. Old Rag Mountain Loop Trail; Shenandoah National Park, Virginia – Another gem of the eastern U.S., Old Rag Mountain features awe-inspiring views of the valley below as you climb to over 2,400 feet over 8.6 miles. With several false peaks, Old Rag is known for tricking hikers into thinking they’ve hit the summit, only to have more trail to go.

8. Royal Arch Trail; Boulder Open Space,  Colorado – Boulder’s most popular trail is a must-hike for tourists and locals looking to soak up views of the stunning sandstone boulders that are so famous in this region. Royal Arch is an eroded outcrop of a larger formation that offers a natural parasol for picnicking and relaxing. At three miles, this hike is relatively short, but it offers an elevation gain of over 1,300 feet and is rated as hard, so you’ll still get a fairly solid workout.

9. Hanging Lake Trail; White River National Forest, Colorado – Yet another gem of the Centennial State, Hanging Lake Trail offers some of the very best views in the western United States. The trail is rigorous and steep, but rewards with its final view of the pristine Hanging Lake surrounded by natural waterfalls. Though it’s rated as moderate and is only three miles total, Hanging Lake Trail can be treacherous in the winter, so it’s important to exercise caution and use your best judgment when hiking this route.

10. Lake Blanche Trail; Twin Peaks Wilderness, Utah – Located just outside of Salt Lake City, this popular trail is beloved for its varied terrain. Hikers enjoy glimpses of a mountaintop lake, plenty of wildlife, and untouched mountain vistas. It’s a 6.9-mile out-and-back route that’s rated as hard, taking hikers to an elevation gain of 2,700 feet, so it’s best for experienced hikers comfortable with rough terrain.

Seeing America in Your Hiking Boots

There’s arguably no better way to see what America is all about than by packing up your daypack and hitting the trail. Whether your goal is to exercise, reflect, learn, or spot some elusive wildlife, the above routes will leave you feeling fulfilled. Make sure to check with the parks service before beginning your journey, as some of the more dangerous routes are often closed in the winter or during inclement weather. Happy trails!

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15 Top Horse Safety Tips For Young Riders

We love our horses, they’re beautiful animals, but we must remember that they are large and often unpredictable. Therefore, gaining valuable safety knowledge as a novice rider is very important.

1. Appropriate footwear is a must. Flip-flops, sandals, mesh or any thin shoes are not going to save your tootsies if you’re four-legged accidentally stands on them.
2. To avoid spooking your horse, approach or touch from the front in order to get their attention.
3. Being calm and quiet around your horse is important, any loud noises or sudden movements can trigger then to kick out or jump sideways.
4. We all know how much horses like treats, especially carrots! Give them out of buckets to avoid them mistaking your fingers for one!
5. Quick release knots and panic snaps are the best options when tying; if your horse spooks and pulls it means they can free themselves easily. The feeling of being constrained can scare the horse causing them to panic and as a result, hurt themselves or you.
6. Never stand behind your horse, even if your grooming it’s tail. Stand to one side and gently pull it towards you. The best place to stand is next to them behind their shoulder where you can both see each other.
7. Putting on leg bandages or cleaning your horses’ hooves can be tricky, be sure to bend over, not squat or kneel when doing so. This will allow you to move quickly if needed.
8. When cleaning your horses stall, grooming or saddling up, to avoid chaos breaking out, it’s best to tie your horse up. However, try not to leave them unattended, while mucking out, turn them out or move them into another stall if possible.
9. For comfort, it’s always tempting to loop lead ropes, reins or lunge lines around your hand and other body parts. However, if your horse is to pull away or rear up you may end being dragged and seriously injured.
10. Whenever riding check your tack is fitted well, is secure and isn’t damaged. Loose threads, tired leather or ill-fitted saddles can cause accidents.
11. Horses can be easily startled when going through doorways always make sure it is fully open to avoid then hitting it.
12. When you lose your horse into their pasture, remove the halter facing the horse towards the gate. The prospect of freedom can get them very excited, doing this will reduce the likeliness of them from galloping off and accidentally taking you out at the same time or trying to go before the halter is fully removed.
13. Understand their body language, if your horses’ ear is pinned back, they aren’t going to be in the best of moods. Tailor your approach/actions around this.
14. Be confident, your horse will take confidence from you as a confident handler.
15. Never be afraid to ask for advice or guidance, every day can be a school day!

Author Bio

Emily Davis works at Cheval Liberte as a community manager. Cheval Liberté has been designing, developing and producing stalls, internal stables, and stable equipment since 1995, Driven by their passion for horses, Cheval Liberté was founded by both riders and breeders and since 2005 this passion has been implemented in the UK, with our North Wales company being the sole importers of Cheval Liberté products for distribution and erection throughout the UK & Ireland.

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