Tag: National

  • 6 U.S. National Parks That Are Even More Beautiful In Winter

    6 U.S. National Parks That Are Even More Beautiful In Winter

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    Have you ever considered visiting any national parks during the winter?

    Summer may be the peak season for visiting national parks in the United States, but these national parks are just as stunning during the winter, with the added bonus of lower crowds and off-season prices.

    USA, Wyoming, Yellowstone National Park, Grand Prismatic Spring, mist over hot spring in winter landscape

    The trade-off, of course, is that you can expect cold weather at some national parks during the winter. But it’s worth it to see these iconic landscapes from a different perspective.

    Some national parks have milder winters, particularly those in the Southwest and Southeast, making them more enjoyable to visit than during the sweltering summer season.

    Here are 6 of the best U.S. national parks to visit this winter:

    1. Grand Canyon National Park

    The Grand Canyon is one of the most iconic sights in the United States. Spanning 277 miles long with a width of 18 miles, this canyon in Arizona is one of the most visited destinations in the country.

    It’s even more beautiful in the winter than at any other time of year. During the winter, the canyon can be dusted in a light coating of white snow, making for truly breathtaking views.

    Grand Canyon in the winter with snow topped peaks

    2. Death Valley National Park

    While California’s Death Valley National Park is stunning, it can be hard to appreciate the national park’s otherworldly beauty during the summer when daytime temperatures commonly reach upwards of 115° F.

    During the winter, particularly the months of December and January, the weather at this desert national park is much milder. Visitors can enjoy average highs in the mid-sixties and evening lows in the forties.

    This makes exploring Death Valley much more feasible, and you’ll be able to hike and do other outdoor activities for much longer.

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    Death Valley National Park

    3. Bryce Canyon National Park

    Bryce Canyon National Park in Utah offers some of the most striking scenery in the United States at any time of year.

    This national park is famed for its orange-colored rock formations that stretch on for miles. However, this national park can get extremely crowded during the summer months.

    In the winter, expect freezing temperatures. But if you can brave the cold, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular winter landscapes. Seeing the snow-covered canyon in winter is worth battling the cold.

    Bryce Canyon in winter with canyon covered in snow

    4. Everglades National Park

    Everglades National Park in Florida is a great national park to visit in the winter to escape the cold.

    In fact, winter is the best time of year to visit this national park. There’s less rain and humidity, and temperatures are milder, with an average high of 77° F and an average low of 53° F.

    Winter is also the best time of year for spotting wildlife, and there are fewer mosquitoes in the Everglades at this time of year.

    Everglades National Park with people kayaking on water

    5. Yellowstone National Park

    Yellowstone National Park, which sits primarily in Wyoming but also reaches Montana and Idaho, is the oldest national park in the United States. Founded more than 150 years ago, this national park is extremely popular and beloved.

    During the winter, Yellowstone’s diverse landscapes and array of wildlife are just as compelling. You can observe bison, coyotes, foxes, and more trekking across the snowy landscapes.

    Frozen waterfalls and steaming hot springs are just more of the sights that await you in Yellowstone during the winter. While it’s bitterly cold, you can always warm up with a cup of hot cocoa in front of the fireplace at one of Yellowstone’s many lodges.

    Yellowstone National Park in winter with bison walking

    6. Mount Rainier National Park

    Finally, Mount Rainier National Park is an incredible winter destination if you don’t mind braving the cold.

    This national park in Washington turns into a veritable winter wonderland, with snow-capped trees and the impressive snowy peak of Mount Rainier looming in the distance.

    Winter is a great time of year for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing at this national park.

    Snowy trees in front of Mount Rainier

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  • Frontier Airlines Adds New National And International Routes With Fares Starting At $69

    Frontier Airlines Adds New National And International Routes With Fares Starting At $69

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    Ready to fly to great destinations for a very low price? Frontier Airlines is expanding its network and recently announced new national and international routes. Travelers will get more low-cost options for exciting and practical terminals starting services right away. 

    frontier airplane taxiing at the airport in Atlanta

    Through multiple press releases, the American ultra-low-cost carrier explained the new services and shared the introductory fares for customers. These are the main routes announced:

    • From Atlanta to Nassau, San Salvador, and Kingston with introductory fares starting at $99.
    • From Chicago Midway to Miami and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood starting at $69. 
    • From Denver to West Palm Beach starting at $69.
    • From Orlando to Guadalajara starting at $109.
    Aerial view of the Bahamas

    The introductory fares are valid for non-stop travel, will be available until November 10 at midnight, are subject to availability, and blackout dates apply. Travelers must carefully read all terms and conditions, and book fast. 

    Just a few weeks ago, Frontier also announced non-stop flights to Jamaica. With these new routes now Americans have more options to enjoy the warm weather in Florida, Mexico, and the Caribbean for Fall and Winter. 

    From Atlanta

    View of the city from Piedmont Park in Atlanta

    Frontier will be serving 37 destinations from Atlanta by the end of the month. Besides these three new routes, the carrier will add San José in Costa Rica as a destination within the next few days. 

    Daniel Shurz, senior vice president of commercial at Frontier Airlines, said: “Frontier Airlines is thrilled to become the second largest international carrier at ATL—and the only ultra-low fare carrier providing international service from Atlanta.”

    Passenger at Atlanta International Airport

    These are the main details of the new routes, from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) to: 

    • Nassau, Bahamas (NAS): route started on November 5, serving passengers once a week with introductory fares starting at $99. 
    • San Salvador, El Salvador (SAL): route started on November 6, serving passengers twice a week with introductory fares starting at $119. 
    • Kingston, Jamaica (KIN): route started on November 7, serving passengers twice a week with introductory fares starting at $99. 

    Travelers can check availability and prices on Frontier’s Flights From Atlanta page.

    From Chicago Midway

    Cloud Gate, Bean-Like Monument In Chicago, Illinois, United States

    The new non-stop service from Chicago to Miami—one of the most popular destinations in the U.S. right now—, and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood. Shruz stated:  “South Florida is a popular wintertime escape for Chicagoans. Getting there is now a whole lot easier thanks to Frontier’s ‘Low Fares Done Right.’”

    These are the main details of the new routes, from Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) to: 

    • Miami (MIA): route started on November 5 and will serve passengers 5 times a week, with introductory fares starting at just $69.
    • Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood (FLL): route started on November 5 and will serve passengers daily flights, with introductory fares starting at just $69.
    Miami skyline

    The availability, prices, and frequency can be checked on Frontier’s Flights From Chicago page

    From Denver 

    Travelers from Denver can take advantage of Frontier’s new route to West Palm Beach and enjoy the epic sunsets, and beautiful beaches. West Palm Beach residents, on the other hand, can also enjoy all the amazing museums and attractions Denver has to offer or go to the best ski resorts in the area. 

    Frontier airplane at Denver international airport

    These are the main details of the new route  from Denver International Airport (DEN) to: 

    • West Palm Beach (PBI): route started on November 6 and will serve passengers three times a week, with introductory fares starting at just $69.

    Travelers can visit Frontier’s Flights From Denver page, to see prices and availability.

    From Orlando

    Frontier added another route to Mexico and this time the destination is Guadalajara. This city has the most incredible neighborhood in the world to visit right now, Colonial Americana, so this is great news for travelers!

    colorful umbrellas top a pedestrian street in Mexico

    These are the main details of the new route from Orlando International Airport (MCO) to: 

    • Guadalajara (GDL): route started on November 6 and will serve passengers twice a week, with introductory fares starting at just $109.

    To confirm prices, dates, and availability, travelers should visit Frontier’s Flights From Orlando page.

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    This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com

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  • Top 6 Off The Beaten Path Things To Do In Yellowstone National Park

    Top 6 Off The Beaten Path Things To Do In Yellowstone National Park

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    Yellowstone National Park was America’s first National Park and set the groundwork for the subsequent national parks to be named as such. This well-loved national treasure sees millions of visitors a year, meaning that many of the best-known spots tend to get crowded. This list looks at 6 slightly more off-the-beaten-path things to do in Yellowstone that may be a little less busy. 

    1. Check Out Fairy Falls Trail

    The Grand Prismatic Spring is one of Yellowstone’s most well-known thermal features (after Old Faithful, that is), and Fairy Falls Trail is a fun, slightly lesser-known way to see it. Instead of traversing the boardwalks that weave around the colorful hot spring, you’ll head out on a 5.4-mile hike that takes you past a gorgeous viewpoint of the hot spring and ends at the titular Fairy Falls. Fairy Falls itself is a 200ft tall waterfall that cascades into The trail heads past several smaller hot springs as well, making it a great way to get to see some little-known thermal features in the park. The trail typically opens in late May, depending on wildlife activity in the area, and remains open until the end of the summer season. 

    Check Out Fairy Falls Trail

    2. Go Boating

    If you’re looking for a unique way to see more of the park, consider exploring by water. Several locations in the park, including Lewis and Yellowstone Lake, welcome boaters and those looking to enjoy similar forms of recreation, including paddleboarding. The boating season typically opens around Memorial Day weekend and runs through the end of October. If you don’t have a boat of your own, rentals are also available from Yellowstone National Park Lodges. 

    Go Boating

    3. Explore Norris Geyser Basin

    Here’s another great option for those looking to see some of the stunning thermal features the park offers besides Old Faithful. Norris Geyser Basin is one of the six main geyser basins within the park and is home to several unique features that make it worth a visit. Steamboat Geyser, for example, is noted as one of the largest geysers in the world, erupting upwards of 300ft of water. Steamboat Geyser’s eruptions are far from as regular as Old Faithful’s, but the basin is home to several other beautiful springs that make it worth the visit even if you don’t get to see the geyser erupt.

    4. Go On A Trail Ride

    Here’s another way to see normal parts of the park in a more unique way. Horseback riding offers a fun, memorable, and one-of-a-kind way to explore the park. Several private groups are licensed to operate in Yellowstone, such as Adventures Outfitting, which offers trail rides in a couple of areas within the park. This is also a pretty family-friendly option. Several of the groups have options for a wide variety of age ranges, including children. Typically, no experience is necessary for trail rides as well. 

     Go On A Trail Ride

    5. Camp In The Backcountry

    Here’s an option for the wilderness savvy readers – camping in the Yellowstone backcountry. This is truly off the beaten pathway to see more of America’s first national park. There are a wide variety of backcountry trips. Shorter trips, such as the hike out to Shoshone Geyser Basin (approximately 8 miles) can be done in a day. However, many choose to camp at one of the backcountry sites in the area to allow more time to explore. The park also has options for longer backpacking trips lasting several days. If you are wanting to camp in the backcountry, permits are required for any overnight stays. Additionally, make sure you’re fully informed and have plenty of applicable experience for your chosen adventure, as even popular spots in the park have spotty reception and are fairly remote should help be needed. 

    Camp In The Backcountry

    6. Check Out Mystic Falls Trail

    Here’s an option for those looking for a pretty and beginner-friendly hike in Yellowstone. Mystic Falls Trail is 2.4-miles, though some opt to continue past the falls. Thi will add an additional 1.5 miles on to reach an overlook of the Upper Geyser Basin. This trail isn’t nearly as popular as spots like the Old Faithful area. However, can still get a fair amount of foot traffic during the afternoon. Those looking for a little more quietness may want to consider heading out early.

    Check Out Mystic Falls Trail

    Read More:

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    5 Unique Ways To Experience U.S. National Parks

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    Disclaimer: Current travel rules and restrictions can change without notice. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before traveling.  Travel Off Path does not endorse traveling against government advisories

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  • Top 7 Things To Do In Big Bend National Park

    Top 7 Things To Do In Big Bend National Park

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    Located in Texas, Big Bend National Park is home to some stunningly gorgeous scenery and a whole host of reasons to consider visiting. This article looks at some of those reasons by highlighting seven great things to do in the park. 

    Note: If you’re visiting today, April 16, entry into Big Bend is FREE!

    Top 7 Things To Do In Big Bend National Park

    1. Go Stargazing

    Big Bend National Park is an absolutely wonderful place to check out the night sky. The park actually has the least amount of light pollution of any national park located in the lower 48 United States and has been awarded International Dark Sky Park Status. For those looking to get some amazing views of the stars above, you can opt to check out a ranger-led program or bring your own binoculars to create your own experience. 

    Go Stargazing

    2. Go On A Rafting Trip

    The Rio Grande River cuts through Big Bend National Park, offering some amazing opportunities for adventures on the water. For those looking to embark on their first rafting trip, there are several groups in the area that offer guided tours such as Big Bend River Tours. Those with a bit of experience under their belt who are planning to bring or rent their own equipment will also have several routes to choose from, ranging from day trips to overnight trips. Backcountry permits are required for the majority of rafting trips on the Rio Grande. 

    Rio Grande River, Big Bend National Park

    3. View Wildlife

    Another reason to consider visiting this national park is the countless opportunities you’ll have for seeing wildlife in their natural habitat. The park is home to a huge variety of animals. Some of the larger creatures you may end up spotting include deer, javelinas, and black bears. Smaller animals include, but are far from limited to, lizards, snakes, and rabbits. Dawn and dusk are typically the best time to view many of the animals. If you’re wanting to learn more about them, you may also want to consider stopping by a ranger-led program, as topics frequently center on various species of wildlife. 

    View Wildlife

    4. Relax In A Hot Spring

    Big Bend National Park is also home to hot springs. This is a great option for those looking for a relaxing early morning soak, or those planning to visit during the cooler months. Head over to the Hot Springs Historic District to both enjoy some warm waters and learn more about the history of the spring. The pool that now makes up the spring is actually the ruins of a bathhouse that once stood there. Continuously fed by geothermally heated water, the bathhouse itself may be long gone but the spring remains. Water temperatures in the spring can vary but typically hover around 105 degrees Fahrenheit. For this reason, you may want to use caution and limit your soak to a reasonable amount of time, especially if going with children or visiting in the summer. 

    Relax In A Hot Spring

    5. Head Out On A Hike

    This park offers countless amazing opportunities to go hiking for all skills levels. For those looking for an easy hike, the Window is without a doubt one of the most memorable. The Window itself is a cliff edge framed magnificently by surrounding rock formations. To get there, you’ll wind around 2 miles through the canyon leading up to it. Thanks to its location in the Chisos mountains as opposed to the hotter desert lowlands, this is also a well-loved trail in the summer months. Those looking for some more challenging routes won’t be disappointed either. Marufo Vegas trail, for example, is a 12-mile excursion that may be tiring, but also offers views of stunning scenery. 

    Head Out On A Hike

    6. Go On A Scenic Drive

    Summer temperatures in Big Bend National Park can soar upwards of 100 degrees Fahrenheit, which may be too hot for anything more than a short hike for many visitors. Luckily, if you’re planning to visit in the summer, you can still experience some of the gorgeous scenery without braving the high temperatures by checking out one of the park’s scenic drives. One popular route is the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive, which showcases the breathtaking rock formations that make up Big Bend National Park and is especially stunning at sunset or sundown. 

    Go On A Scenic Drive

    7. Go Camping

    Finally, with so much to do in this national park, it would be impossible to fit everything into one day. For this reason, many visitors opt to spend a few days to a week exploring the area. While there is one lodge within the park boundaries and several more in the surrounding towns, camping can be a great way to experience even more of the park. Big Bend is home to several campgrounds, ranging from developed sites offering various amenities to primitive campsites.

    Go Camping

    Read More:

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