National Parks – Unlimited Possibilities

” A mind that is stretched by a new experience can never go back to its own dimensions”

Niagara Falls is a stunning stretch of clashing and colliding land and water, lying on the border of the US and Canada. Shared by the state of New York and the Province of Ontario, this gorgeous natural wonder is arguably one of the most well-known tourist destinations in North America. Niagara Falls is made up of 3 large waterfalls that generate hydroelectric power, and also give us an unbeatable background for any traveler’s photo album. With over 28 million tourists every year making their way to these powerful waterfalls, we know it can’t just be a clean source of energy and a good view. The Falls are much more than that, with numerous activities offered from zip lining to cave explorations. Any journey to these roaring droves of water encapsulates a massive area beyond the Niagara Gorge and through the neighboring lakes and cities. Let’s take a look at some of the sights you’ll see on this journey, starting with the three formidable but stunning waterfalls.

The view of American Falls from the Maid of the Mist – by Billy Hathorn, Wikimedia Commons

I myself visited this gorgeous national park with its magnificent waterfalls, it happened a long time ago, as far as I remember, back in 2012. I was simply amazed by it, I had never before seen such a beautiful, impressive place.

The Maid of the Mist VI, in Niagara Falls, New York – By Saffron Blaze, Wikimedia Commons)

Indeed, in the middle of the water, on board of „The Maid of the Mist” you feel like engulfed in the midst of the mist, incapable of seeing anything. Soon it dissipates and one can admire the magnificent scenery.

Pedestrian bridge to Green Island over Niagara River near the American Falls – By Lucas Cobb, Wikimedia Commons

Prospect Point Observation Tower – By 林高志, Wikimedia Commons

Horseshoe Falls, in Niagara Falls, Ontario – By Thomaswm, Wikimedia Commons

Horseshoe Falls, the largest of the three, lies on the US-Canada border, mostly in Ontario. The smaller two falls as well as Goat Island and Luna Island, which separate the falls, are situated in New York. Cruise boats are operated on either side of the Niagara Gorge. The best-known tourist attraction of the Falls, the Maid of the Mist cruise is operated from the American side, while its counterpart Hornblower Cruises is available in Ontario. These cruises take you right under the falls, and many also offer tours through the islands and their attractions.

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Horseshoe Falls at night By Dsdugan, Wikimedia Commons

American Falls, in Niagara Falls, New York – By Sixlocal, Wikimedia Commons

Moving across the border, we can approach the Falls through Queen Victoria Park, which offers paths through observation rooms that give you a dreamlike view of the two larger falls. For the avid hiker and history buff, the Niagara River Recreational Trail is a must-try 35-mile adventure, peppered historical treasures, and towns like Fort George and Fort Erie. Of course, the cream of the crop is the Skylon towers, the highest vantage point any traveler can get of the falls.

Niagara Falls is currently being reopened in phases to maintain safety protocols during the COVID-19 pandemic. If you’re planning to make the trip, make sure to reach out to Niagara Falls USA and Niagara Falls Canada to determine the precautions and procedures in place for visiting so you can enjoy your travels with absolute safety! If you liked this article, why not share it?

the source : my own memories and the internet

Cristina David

National parks offer an unparalleled experience for watching wildlife and appreciating the interconnected network of life in and around parks.

“A normal lake is knowable. A Great Lake can hold all the mysteries of an ocean, and then some.” — Dan Egan

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, on the largest and deepest Great Lake, includes cliffs, beaches, waterfalls, and forest for outdoor adventure.

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore encompasses over 40 miles of Lake Superior shoreline. Situated on the largest, deepest, coldest and most pristine of the Great Lakes, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore derives its name from the many sandstone cliffs that dot the shoreline. In addition to the sandstone cliffs, the park includes beaches, sand dunes, waterfalls, lakes and forest.

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

As old as continental ice sheets and as young as the 1970 Establishment Act that set aside the lakeshore for preservation and public use, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore offers countless opportunities for discovery. The naturally elevated dunes along Lake Michigan offer visitors spectacular views, all-season hiking trails, pristine rivers for paddling, and a wonderful array of wildlife to explore.

The most prominent features are the dunes above Lake Michigan, perched atop the already towering headlands. The dune overlooks at the Sleeping Bear, Empire, and Pyramid Point bluffs are about 400 feet above Lake Michigan, and with 65 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline and numerous inland lakes and streams, the park is wonderfully water oriented.

Isle Royale National Park

Surrounded by Lake Superior, Isle Royale National Park encompasses 850 square miles of natural wilderness, spacious lands, and aquatic life.

A cool climate, crystal-clear waters, and the wild North Woods forest characterize Isle Royale National Park. The park encompasses a total area of 850 square miles including submerged lands which extend over four miles out into Lake Superior, and 99% of the land mass is federally designated wilderness. The archipelago is composed of numerous parallel ridges, the result of ancient lava flows which were tilted and glaciated.

Isle Royale has 165 miles of scenic hiking trails and 36 campgrounds for backpackers, paddlers, and recreational boaters. There is excellent fishing, historic lighthouses, and shipwrecks, ancient copper mining sites, and plenty of spots to observe wildlife. Isle Royale is accessible only by boat or float plane.

While enjoying a Venturing Crew backpacking trip two of the boys decided to sit quietly on the rocks at Sisskiwit Bay on Isle Royale. Even the roudiest of boys can find a little quiet for introspection while on the Island. It is good to see them deprived of their handheld devices for more than a day.

My advice: take some time, relax and plan a 2 week vacation to spend in the picturesque spots I described above. You won’t regret it! And try to remember:

“Travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer.”

Cristina David