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| The gorgeous scenery of the Sierra Nevada mountains. |
Showing posts with label Mountain. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Mountain. Show all posts
Visit Inyo National Forest and Sierra Nevada Mountain
Tuesday, December 1, 2020
Driving Up Pikes Peak Mountain - US Road Trip
Tuesday, March 17, 2020
If you are in the Denver or Colorado Springs area, Pikes Peak is a must see. The view is breathtaking. If you drive to the top beware of the Highwinds and do not ride your brakes coming down the peak, you can overheat your breaks. It's a once in a lifetime view and experience.
Colorado has 54 mountains over 14,000 feet. One of them is in city of Colorado Springs Pikes Peak. Pikes Peak stands at 14,110 feet high. It's a great place to visit with friends, family, and children, if you are not from a high altitude area, the change in altitude is very noticeable. Dress warm if you visit.
Words cannot explain the beauty and majesty of this place. I'm just in love with all of it from the snow cap to the mountain view.
Colorado has 54 mountains over 14,000 feet. One of them is in city of Colorado Springs Pikes Peak. Pikes Peak stands at 14,110 feet high. It's a great place to visit with friends, family, and children, if you are not from a high altitude area, the change in altitude is very noticeable. Dress warm if you visit.
Words cannot explain the beauty and majesty of this place. I'm just in love with all of it from the snow cap to the mountain view.
Visiting the Ojai Mountain California
Monday, December 2, 2019
The tradition of Thanksgiving is as strong as ever. Turkey, football, turtlenecks, and post-meal naps. Thanksgiving is about being thankful for what we have. While it can be nice to spend your time off at home, or at a relative's house, it can also be a great opportunity to do a short road trip to get some break.
We visit the Ojai mountain at least twice a year, if not more. It is few miles from the coast, peaceful Ojai feels far removed from the noise of city life and congested freeways. It’s also visually stunning, encircled by rippling mountains where the sun casts a pink shadow when it sets.
We visit the Ojai mountain at least twice a year, if not more. It is few miles from the coast, peaceful Ojai feels far removed from the noise of city life and congested freeways. It’s also visually stunning, encircled by rippling mountains where the sun casts a pink shadow when it sets.
Visit Point Mugu State Park
Monday, August 26, 2019
This is our first time hiking the trails in these beautiful Santa Monica mountains. We got to the trailhead soon after finding ample parking on the side street. We loved the fact that it did not feel crowded. We were hiking alone most of the time. At a couple of spots we passed hikers coming back but pretty much you're on your own.
The trail is moderately easy for most of the length, with a few fairly steep sections. Suitable for any age group. The initial climb is steep , go right for the longer gentler ascent or go left for the steep and shorter climb you can also just do a loop.
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| Picture of the trail during this spring's Super Bloom. Easy hike to lookout. Don't miss this beautiful trail. |
Visited the Ojai Valley California
Friday, January 18, 2019
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| The overlook from the Upper Ojai Valley to the lower valley. |
Visiting Crater Lake National Park in Oregon | Part 1
Friday, October 5, 2018
I am one of those people who loves National Parks. That is why I've always wanted to see this magnificent lake in Oregon and we finally made it. Picture perfect lake. No doubt about it. You will be amazed when you see this lake. It's a long drive in the wilderness no matter where you'll come from.
The drive here was scenic and when you get to the lake you'll forget the long drive that you just did. The lake was still a few miles after the National Park sign there's a ($15/car) entrance fee to enter the park .
The road trip to Crater Lake is nothing short of spectacular. As we approached the rim, the beauty of the lake literally took my breath away. I gasped because it was as they say, picture perfect. The water was so blue and the surrounding mountains were reflecting off making it all more magical. In late May the ground still has snow and the mountains were snow capped -- it added to the beauty of the lake.
The drive here was scenic and when you get to the lake you'll forget the long drive that you just did. The lake was still a few miles after the National Park sign there's a ($15/car) entrance fee to enter the park .
The road trip to Crater Lake is nothing short of spectacular. As we approached the rim, the beauty of the lake literally took my breath away. I gasped because it was as they say, picture perfect. The water was so blue and the surrounding mountains were reflecting off making it all more magical. In late May the ground still has snow and the mountains were snow capped -- it added to the beauty of the lake.
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| If you love photography, this is definitely the place to go. |
Visit the McCloud Restaurant and Lodge
Sunday, July 15, 2018
It's our first time at McCloud Restaurant in LaFollette, Tennessee. We had no idea that you have to make a reservation. You cannot drive the road going to the mountain unless you have reservations at the restaurant or to their lodge. From the public highway it is a two plus mile drive on a paved two lane private road. At first I was apprehensive about going to eat somewhere that requires a reservation. My assumption was that it would be high society, minimum dress code required, with a menu I can’t pronounce and prices I couldn’t afford. Turns out that I was completely wrong. The food is average, but the view is what really makes this place.
There is a gate guard at the bottom of the mountain. The process is -- you call the restaurant phone number to make reservation. They will ask your name, telephone number, and how many in your party. They will alert the guard that you are coming and when. But in our case since it was a last minute plan we ask if there is an available spot for us. Luckily there is, since the restaurant wasn't too busy that day they let us check in without any reservation.
The Smoky Mountain Fall Festival
Monday, October 2, 2017
The muggy summer heat fades into an inviting fall chill. The greenery on the trees transforms into the vivid colors of the season. Today is the time where everyone starts to wear a jacket and warmer clothes when they go out. When you visit the Smokies in the fall, you can be assured you’ll always have something to celebrate, whether it’s a harvest festival, a food tasting or a parade.
My favorite time to visit the Smoky Mountains is fall. Autumn is a special season in the Smoky Mountains with the incredible weather, beautiful scenery of fall foliage, talented craftsmen, delicious treats, mountain music, and everything else that makes fall one of the favorite times of year for both locals and visitors.
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| Smoky Mountain is your home-away-from-home all year long, but fall is an especially good time visit. 🍁🍂🎃 |
Lookout Mountain Attractions - Battles for Chattanooga
Tuesday, September 26, 2017
There are so many things to do in Chattanooga, and hiking at Point Park is one of them. This Park offers the most stunning view of downtown Chattanooga and the Tennessee River. Officially known as Lookout Mountain Battlefield. Point Park is part of the Chickamauga & Chattanooga National Military Park. It was a beautiful park, full of history that renewed my interest in the Civil War.
You have to pay admission the $5 per person admission is good for 7 days, so if you're here for a weekend or a week you don't have to pay every time you visit.
You have to pay admission the $5 per person admission is good for 7 days, so if you're here for a weekend or a week you don't have to pay every time you visit.
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| A beautiful park on top of Lookout Mountain overlooking downtown Chattanooga and the Cumberland mountains. |
A Visit to Norris Dam State Park
Monday, July 10, 2017
📌 Parent's Visit America
It was the middle of May of this year when we join the Jeep Crew adventure ride to Norris Dam. My parent's first ride on our Jeep Wrangler (exciting!). We went to Norris Dame State Park located on Norris Reservoir (125 Village Green Cir, Rocky Top, TN 37769). It's 40 minutes away from our house which is very nice!
Norris Dam State Park is known for its hiking trails. Over 21 miles of trails provide spectacular views of Norris Lake and the surrounding hills and valleys. The park offers recreational boating, skiing, and fishing. It has a fully equipped marina with boat ramp available to the general public. House boats and pontoon boats are available for rent along with other types of boats.
This is one great state park. There's also a cabin rentals near the Norris Dam and they are super reasonably priced. Some cabin has a deck overlooking the natural forest scenery. The park is sort of split up between the two sides of the dam/lake with plenty to do - as long as you like the woods, rivers, and a great big beautiful clean lake. Pack a picnic lunch and plan to spend the day. Very relaxing in the well shaded picnic areas.
When it's a hot day, there is nothing better than going on Norris Dam lake overlooking the beautiful mountain. If you are in Oak Ridge, TN area this park is well worth the visit.
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| Beautiful clean lake, not crowded, very relaxing if you want to relax, plenty to do if you want to keep busy. |
Wears Valley Log Cabins
Monday, February 27, 2017
This year we only experience mild winter in East Tennessee and I like it by the way. Just because the temperatures are a little uncomfortable doesn't mean you need to be stuck inside all winter. Driving around is a pleasure, and allows for plenty of exploring. We both enjoy an uncrowded area of Wears Valley where we can briefly survey the mountain range beyond in all its glory on a mid morning drive.
First winter in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park should not be missed. Even if there is snow accumulation and some business establishments are closed. There is still many places to check out. Also, bears are hibernating, so there is not much concern there either. Though the GSMNP is not vibrantly green like other seasons, you may be surprised to discover how breathtaking it is even on a winter days.
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| The mountain cabin homes located throughout Wears Valley, Townsend Tennessee. |
Sunset at Clingman's Dome
Sunday, August 7, 2016
📌 Highest Peak of Great Smoky Mountain National Park
We went to Clingman's Dome to watch sunset for the first time. You have to hike to get there, its a steep and tough hike up but only about 1/2 mile so with frequent stops it can be done. We are both in decent shape but had to stop several times just to catch our breathe. There are number of benches , rocks, along the trail for you to rest so it's not that bad. The hike down is a breeze!
Once you get to the top the
hike is well worth it. We saw a layer of cloud in front of us, somewhat
like cotton candy, with mountain peaks peeking out above the layer. Felt
like at the top of the world.
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| Who doesn't enjoy Smokies sunset? The sight is even more
rewarding when you hike to a destination with a spectacular view. |
Ultimate Escape Cabin at Gatlinburg Falls Resort
Sunday, March 20, 2016
We decided to take a break for at least two days in the mountain. We just want to go somewhere to relax and do nothing, and Smokies is our place! This is our second time rented a cabin at Gatlinburg Falls Resort. We stayed at Ultimate Escape, it was nicely furnished , there is a hot tub on the deck , a fully functioning kitchen, and laundry
facilities. Our rented cabin offers ultimate relaxation. My husband and I enjoyed the peaceful view from the deck and the hot tub overlooking the Smoky Mountains. Our get away goal was relaxation and that is definitely what we got here! We're already planning to re-book for next year, and probably each year thereafter.
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| The front view of Ultimate Escape Cabin |
The Summit of Mount LeConte
Saturday, November 7, 2015
We decided to hike up to the Mount LeConte roughly 2.7 miles further from Alum Cave. On the way up its gets a little steeper and rockier. A little rough on our joints but it was definitely worth it. At some points you have to hold on to a rope to get up the slick rocks. This did not stop us, as the views on the way are amazing. It took us about 6 hours round-trip and that's with a few breaks. Overall, if you are in decent shape I would definitely recommend hiking Mt. LeConte. Literally you get a little bit of everything with this hike like different types of terrain, the cave, rocks, narrow spots, slick spots, multiple bridges and wires to hold on.
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| Panoramic views to die for - Mission accomplished |
Alum Cave Trail
Sunday, November 1, 2015
Looking for a challenging yet scenic hike in the Smoky Mountains? Look no further than Alum Cave Trail also known as Alum Bluffs. It is the shortest and steepest of the several trails leading to the top of Mount LeConte. Due to its short length and beautiful scenery it is often considered Le Conte's most scenic route and the most common footpath for hikers seeking to reach the summit of Le Conte.
My husband been wanted to hike this trail ever since we moved to Tennessee , and I'm glad he appreciates my enthusiasm. We hiked two trails in a day, for total of 10 miles. My body is sore
and tired, but I feel very satisfied. Personal challenge completed.
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| Autumn is a beautiful time to visit Great Smoky Mountain |
Take a ride at Gatlinburg Sky Lift
Tuesday, July 7, 2015
As we board the Gatlinburg Sky Lift in downtown Gatlinburg and start to climb higher and higher, we see the amazing view of the city, the mountains, the trees and flowers from a vantage point we can't experience anywhere else. I imagine myself sailing slowly above the trees, up into the Smoky Mountains, as this chair lift transports you to an unparalleled view of the mountains and the town below.
At the top of the mountain, an elevation of 1,800 feet, you can take some time to enjoy the view and even have a picnic lunch. This popular, awe-inspiring Gatlinburg attraction is suited for all ages, and is a great activity for any family traveling to this area. So grab your camera and come prepared to experience beauty and all that Mother Nature has to offer.
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| A great way to see the mountains. We really enjoyed it. Even if your not a fan of height (like me) the view will be worth the fear. |
Address: 765 Parkway, Center of town at traffic light # 7, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Phone Number: 865-436-4307; Ticket cost $15.00/person
Journey to Bigfoot Peak
Monday, June 15, 2015
This is our second time joining The Smoky Mountain Jeep Club. And today were heading to a scenic journey to the Citico Creek/Bald River falls area and ride to the top of BIG FOOT PEAK at 3,900 feet elevation to hunt for the elusive Sasquatch of Tennessee. The Peak is one of the highest spots accessible by Jeep. This ride is 110 miles round trip from the start point, and includes stops at Tellico Plains, Big Foot Peak and Bald River Falls. This is an all day event! Our first stop is at Tellico Plains Visitors Center for a bathroom break. From there we drove up the Cherohala Skyway onto back dirt roads into the winding trails to the summit of Big Foot Peak. There is a park and breath taking view, eat and socialize. Big Surprises in store for all on this ride! After lunch we drove down to Bald River Falls. After the falls whoever is interested can stop at the famous Citico Drive-inn for ice cream. At this point the ride ends and Jeepers can go their separate ways.
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| At the visitor center of Cherohala Skyway |
Visit Lookout Mountain Georgia
Saturday, August 24, 2013
My husband and I loves traveling to Gatlinburg, TN and everyone we talked
to said we just had to take a detour to Chattanooga (or Lookout
Mountain) and we did. We really enjoyed the walking trails and seeing the beautiful scenery. The trails, gardens,
waterfall, and natural structures were amazing. We spend the whole day in hiking. When we reach the top, there is an observation deck for more great views. Follow the park around and
you will see the other side of the mountain views, just beautiful. I loved that they've kept the mountain so clean and accessible.
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| Lover's Leap at Lookout Mountain Georgia .
According to folklore, a young Indian couple fell in love but could not
be together because they belonged to tribes that were at war with each
other. They leap to their deaths from this ledge in despair. A very sad
story for this beautiful scenery. |
