Author: marklongmainstream (Page 17 of 301)

Smith Falls State Park, located at 90159 Smith Falls Rd, Valentine, NE 69201, is a stunning natural oasis in the heart of Nebraska. This picturesque park is home to the state’s highest waterfall, scenic hiking trails, and a plethora of outdoor activities that make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. For more information, click here.

History Smith Falls State Park has a rich history dating back to the early 1900s, when it was first established as a state park. The park’s namesake, Smith Falls, was discovered by a fur trapper named Frederick Smith in the late 1800s. Over the years, the park has undergone significant developments, including the construction of hiking trails, camping facilities, and picnic areas.

Amenities and Activities Smith Falls State Park offers a wide range of amenities and activities for visitors to enjoy. The park’s crown jewel is the 63-foot Smith Falls, which is surrounded by lush vegetation and scenic hiking trails. Visitors can hike, bike, or horseback ride through the park’s trails, which offer breathtaking views of the falls and the surrounding landscape. The park also features picnic areas, camping facilities, and a fishing lake stocked with trout and other fish species.

Points of Interest In addition to Smith Falls, the park is home to several other points of interest, including the Smith Falls Visitor Center, which offers information on the park’s history and geology. The park also features a historic gristmill, which has been converted into a museum showcasing the park’s history and the region’s natural resources.

Wildlife and Nature Smith Falls State Park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, with a diverse range of flora and fauna. The park is home to over 100 species of birds, including the majestic bald eagle, as well as deer, turkeys, and other wildlife. The park’s scenic trails offer ample opportunities for nature watching and photography.

Camping and Accommodations Smith Falls State Park offers a range of camping facilities, including RV sites, tent sites, and cabins. The park also features a group lodge and a picnic shelter, which can be reserved for events and gatherings.

In conclusion, Smith Falls State Park is a natural gem in the heart of Nebraska, offering a range of outdoor activities, scenic beauty, and historic significance. Whether you’re a nature lover, an adventure seeker, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, Smith Falls State Park is a must-visit destination in the Cornhusker State.

For more of the best adventures in the United States, click here. For the best nearby parks and amazing locations, click here. For the best Hotels, Resorts, and Vacation Homes, click here.

Devils Tower National Monument, located at Highway 110, Devils Tower, WY 82714, is a awe-inspiring natural wonder that has captivated the imagination of visitors for centuries. This towering geological formation, standing at an impressive 867 feet tall, is a must-see destination for anyone interested in nature, history, and the unknown. For more information, click here.

Devils Tower has a rich cultural and spiritual significance, with numerous Native American tribes considering it a sacred site. The monument was also made famous by the 1977 movie “Close Encounters of the Third Kind,” which featured the tower as a landing site for alien spacecraft. Today, visitors can explore the tower and its surrounding landscape through a variety of activities, including hiking, rock climbing, and wildlife viewing.

One of the most popular activities at Devils Tower is hiking. The monument offers several trails of varying difficulty, including the Tower Trail, which takes visitors on a 1.3-mile loop around the base of the tower. The trail offers stunning views of the tower and the surrounding landscape, as well as opportunities to spot local wildlife such as prairie dogs and bison. For the more adventurous, Devils Tower also offers rock climbing routes for all skill levels, from beginner to expert.

In addition to its natural beauty, Devils Tower is also home to a number of amenities and points of interest. The monument visitor center offers information on the tower’s history and geology, as well as a gift shop and museum. Visitors can also explore the nearby town of Devils Tower, which offers a range of accommodations, restaurants, and shops. Other points of interest in the area include the Belle Fourche River, which offers fishing and rafting opportunities, and the Wyoming Cowboy Hall of Fame, which celebrates the state’s rich cowboy heritage.

In conclusion, Devils Tower National Monument is a unique and fascinating destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in nature, history, or the unknown, this awe-inspiring monument is sure to leave a lasting impression. So why not start planning your visit today and experience the wonder of Devils Tower for yourself?

For more of the best adventures in the United States, click here. For the best nearby parks and amazing locations, click here. For the best Hotels, Resorts, and Vacation Homes, click here.

Hell Creek Natural Area, located at 17169 Highway 14, in Ozark, Arkansas 72950, is a stunning preserve nestled in the Ozark Mountains of Arkansas. For more information, click here.

This natural wonder spans over 1,200 acres, showcasing the state’s diverse geology, flora, and fauna. Hell Creek Natural Area is a treasured destination for outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those seeking an immersive experience amidst Arkansas’ unspoiled beauty.

Geologically, Hell Creek Natural Area is a significant site, featuring exposed rock layers that date back over 450 million years. The area’s unique landscape has been shaped by the erosive forces of Hell Creek, which winds its way through the preserve. Visitors can explore the creek’s scenic banks, discovering hidden waterfalls, swimming holes, and tranquil pools.

One of the primary attractions at Hell Creek Natural Area is its extensive hiking trail system. With over 10 miles of trails, ranging from easy to challenging, visitors can explore the area’s diverse ecosystems, including oak-hickory forests, pine stands, and grasslands. The trails offer breathtaking vistas, scenic overlooks, and opportunities to spot local wildlife, such as white-tailed deer, turkey, and black bears.

In addition to hiking, Hell Creek Natural Area offers various activities for visitors to enjoy. The preserve is a popular destination for birdwatching, with over 100 species documented within the area. Anglers can try their luck in Hell Creek, which is home to smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, and panfish. Picnic areas and shelters are scattered throughout the preserve, providing scenic spots to relax and enjoy a meal.

Hell Creek Natural Area is also steeped in history. The preserve was once home to the Caddo Native American tribe, who utilized the area’s resources for centuries. In the late 19th century, the area was settled by European-Americans, who established farms and mills along the creek. Today, remnants of these early settlements can still be seen, including old homesteads, cemeteries, and abandoned mines.

Visitors to Hell Creek Natural Area can explore the preserve’s many points of interest, including the Hell Creek Falls, a 15-foot waterfall that cascades into a scenic gorge. The preserve is also home to several natural springs, which feed into Hell Creek and support a diverse array of aquatic life.

In conclusion, Hell Creek Natural Area is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an immersive outdoor experience in Arkansas. With its unique geology, diverse ecosystems, and rich history, this preserve offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a hiker, birdwatcher, angler, or simply a nature enthusiast, Hell Creek Natural Area is a treasure waiting to be discovered. So come and explore this natural wonder, and experience the beauty and charm of Arkansas’ Ozark Mountains.

For more of the best adventures in the United States, click here. For the best nearby parks and amazing locations, click here. For the best Hotels, Resorts, and Vacation Homes, click here.

Climb aboard and sail through the morning mist while staying in our newest Cliff Houses!  Grey Dreamer and Sky Dancer are both suspended or perched on the upper sandstone cliffs that the gorge is famous for.  These two cliffhouses SHARE COMMON SPACES (porches, lounge nets and walkways) at the Captain’s Quarters, but each has its own private master bedroom (with a queen bed) up high, suspended from the cliffline. The Cliff House is located at 3546 Nada Tunnel Rd in Stanton, Kentucky. For more information or to check prices and availability, click here.

This gorgeous vacation home is located near some of the most incredible hiking this side of the Mississippi River. Red River Gorge is one of the most incredible places you will ever visit. The entire park is around 29,000 acres, and offers an impressive array of natural attractions!This is a dream come true location for hikers.

Photo credit to Donald Memering

The Captain’s Quarters contain the kitchen, full bathroom (with shower) and second queen bed.  The entire site has pulled architectural inspiration from old wooden hand-hewn ships.  Both the wood creations we’ve crafted and landscape really need to be seen in person to capture the magic of this place designed to help your imagination run wild!   The lower hull of the Captain’s Quarters is mounted to a massive boulder and includes a lounge net, front deck, and roof deck.  Each unit includes heat, air conditioning, electricity, and full indoor plumbing.  Sail away!

— Amenities —

Grey Dreamer has two queen beds (one in the Captain’s Quarter and the second in the cliff-suspended bedroom), is heated and cooled, has an electric range, microwave and mini fridge and is designed for four guests.  The outdoor lighting will be on until midnight and then we switch it off to allow the dark night forest sky to be just that–dark!  We recommend packing a flashlight or headlamp to aid in moving around after the lights are off.

This is truly a one of a kind lodging option, if your looking for something unique and unforgettable, this is the place.  To book this incredible cliffside treehouse, click here. For more information on Red River Gorge, click here.

For more of the best adventures in the United States, click here. For the best nearby parks and amazing locations, click here. For the best Hotels, Resorts, and Vacation Homes, click here.

The “Panda Pad” has been revamped into an 8 person cabin. They have combined the previous Panda Pad with the former Welcome Den area to create a very spacious 3 bedroom cabin. The Panda Pad is on the Big Bear Hideaway property and is located at 10482 Main Street in Boulder Junction, Wisconsin. For more information or to check availability, click here.

The upstairs has 2 bedrooms with 1 queen size bed, 1 bedroom with a queen bed and 1 twin bed, and a twin bed tucked in a sleeping area. There are 2 bathrooms upstairs, 1 with a shower.

The main level of the “Panda” has an incredible living area with new furniture, flat screen TV, and a beautiful view of the yard. The large kitchen is fully stocked for your cooking convenience. There is also a bathroom with a shower on the main level.

• Well stocked kitchen
• Satellite TV and Wi-Fi
• Linens and bath/kitchen towels are provided
• Limited supply of paper products provided
• Wood stove
• Air conditioned
• Grills available by pavilion area
• Occupancy: 8 person maximum