Adventure Outdoors Spring 2020

INLAND WATERWAYS FROM BAYOUS TO CREEKS AND EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN

SPRING 2020

WESTWARD EXPANSION THE OREGON TRAIL

COASTAL FISHING VS. INLAND FISHING CATCH THE BEST OF BOTH

OFFBEAT

SPRING 2020 | DISPLAY UNTIL 06/08/20

EXCURSIONS

Explore the unusual and make one of these unique adventures the focus of your next trip.

Troy

Libby

Kila

Somers

Bigfork

Thompson Falls Hot Springs Haugan De Borgia St. Regis

Rollins Proctor Dayton Elmo Big Arm

Cut Bank

Glacier National Park

Browning

Southwest Montana

East Glacier Park

the

ad

er

Charlo

Paradise

Superior

Lolo

Great Falls

Fort Shaw Ulm Cascade

Ovando

Stockett

Craig

THE PRICKLY PEAR CANYON

Lincoln

Greenough Helmville Bonner GARNET Clinton GHOST TOWN

Wolf Creek

Canyon Creek MARYSVILLE

Florence

Drummond

Stevensville

PINTLER SCENIC ROUTE

Victor

Avon Garrison

GRANT KOHRS RANCH NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE

Philipsburg

GRANITE GHOST TOWN STATE PARK

Hamilton

Helena

Elliston

CHARTER OAK MINE & MILL

Darby

Deer COMETClancy Lodge Basin

Wisdom

Jackson

Butte

QUARTZ HILL PIONEER MTNS SCENIC BYWAY

Polaris

Jefferson City

TIZER BOTANIC GARDEN & ARBORETUM

Divide GLENDALE & CANYON CREEK CHARCOAL KILNS

COOLAGE FARLIN

Alder

Dillon

LEWIS & CLARK CAVERNS

Virginia City Cameron

Grant MADISON RIVER

BIG SHEEP CR. BACKCOUNTRY BYWAY

Logan

Three Forks

Manhatta

Belg

Silver Star Harrison Melrose ROCHESTER PONY Twin Sheridan Norris Bridges Laurin RUBY RIVER Nevada VALLEY Ennis SCENIC City ROUTE

BANNACK STATE PARK

Townsend

ELKHORN STATE PARK

Cardwell

Whitehall

White Sulp Springs

Montana City Winston

Boulder

Wise River Dewey

BIG HOLE NATIONAL BATTLEFIELD

East Helena

RIMINI

Anaconda

Conner

DIG DEEPER get off the beaten path

Fairfield Vaughn

Southwest Montana

Missoula

Sula

Fort

Augusta

Seeley Lake

Arlee

Corvallis

Brady

Condon

Ronan

St. Ignatius

Alberton

Yellowstone

Choteau

Moiese Dixon

Dupuyer

Bynum

Polson

Plains

Galata

National Park Conrad

Riv

Swan Lake

Shelby

Valier

Heart Butte

Fla

Lakeside

Noxon Trout Creek

Glacier National Coram Park

Martin City Hungry Horse Essex

Kalispell Marion

Heron

Sunburst

Columbia Falls

Whitefish

Sweetgrass

Babb

Polebridge

Fortine Trego

Dell Lima

RED ROCK LAKES NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

Monida

Boz

Gallatin Gateway

Big Sky

MADISON RIVER VALLEY SCENIC ROUTE

Quake Lake

Hebgen Lake

Lakeview

Yellowstone National Park

MAVERICK MOUNTAIN

BUTTE

BOULDER HOT SPRINGS

Explore Southwest Montana, just a short drive from Yellowstone and Glacier national parks.

• Take a scenic drive • Explore a ghost town

• Follow in the footsteps

• Dig for sapphires

• Relax in a hot spring

of Lewis & Clark

OR D E R Y O UR FR E E T R AV E L G U I D E AT SOU TH WESTM T.C OM O R CA L L 1 .8 0 0 .8 7 9 .1 1 5 9

Wes Yello

- in this issue -

18

America’s Parks

“Outstanding Waterfalls.” Stand in awe of nature’s majesty at these parks and their powerful waterfalls.

36 HERITAGE AND CULTURE

Cover story6 Page 10

Westward Expansion - The Oregon Trail.” Join us as we delve into the perilous two-thousand-mile journey pioneers encountered on their journey west.

44 CAMPING

Best RV Destinations - Pack up your camper and set off across the country in search of these incredible RV sites.

50 GOING OFF-ROAD

Hidden Offroading Gems - Rev your engines at these underrated but highly enjoyable offroading trails.

Fish • Camp • Hike • Bike • Climb • Fetch • Enjoy

PLAN YOUR STAY TODAY

- in this issue 82 SURVIVAL AND SAFETY

“Lightning Safety.” It’s lightning season – keep track of these tips to stay safe and avoid electrocution.

84 FISHING

58

Outdoor Expeditions

Land: “Most Challenging Trails.” Test what you’re made of on the most strenuous and demanding hiking trails we could find!

Water: “Inland Waterways.” From bayous to creeks and everything in between, we explore America’s freshwater destinations.

104 HUNTING

“Coastal Fishing vs. Inland Fishing.” “Turkey Hunting Across the Nation.”

Find out the best places for tracking How the two locations compare, down these wild birds, and make sure and what to expect from each. you have everything you need.

106 TRAVEL AND EXCURSIONS “Offbeat Excursions.” Explore the unusual and make one of these unique adventures the focus of your next trip.

David-Jacobs Publishing Group, LLC 5700 Memorial Highway, Suite 117 Tampa, FL 33615 (813) 898-2808

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NEWSSTAND CONSULTANT Ferruggia Newsstand Services, LLC TOM FERRUGGIA

DISTRIBUTION Comag Marketing Group (CMG) Curtis Circulation

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A WORLD-RENOWNED MECC A FOR RUNNERS, MOUNTAIN BIKERS, HIKERS AND CLIMBERS OF ALL SKILL LEVELS, DISCOVER FL AGSTAFF’S WILD PL ACES AND BE INSPIRED TO TAKE THE PLEDGE TO PROTECT TRAILS. PLEDGEWILD.COM

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WELCOME We, the Adventure Outdoors team of David-Jacobs Publishing Group, are more than excited to bring you this 2020 spring issue of Adventure Outdoors Magazine. Inside this issue, you will find majestic waterfalls all over the country, waiting for you to take them in. Or perhaps your tastes veer to the unusual, and our article on offbeat excursions is more your style. Whatever outdoor adventure your heart desires, Adventure Outdoors is here to help you have the trip of a lifetime.

Planning a bird hunt this spring? Get all the information you need to bag a turkey in our hunting section. We talk about gear, technique, and more, so get ready to bag a fowl of your very own.

Turkey is delicious even when it’s not Thanksgiving! Or if you’re a history buff, go west with us along the Oregon Trail and explore this fascinating piece of United States culture. The Oregon Trail is such an important piece of United States expansion, and we dive into the details.

The spring is the perfect time to plan an outdoor adventure. The chill of winter has passed and the heat of summer is not yet upon us. Flowers are blooming, birds are singing, wildlife is waking up from its long winter’s nap – what better time to explore? Shake off the dust of staying inside these long months and stretch your legs on a hiking trail, or challenge your muscles with some rock climbing. No matter what you desire, there’s an adventure out there just for you. When you find it, make sure you tell us about it!

With a spring in our step, we wish you the very best,

Your AdventureTeam Outdoors

ADVENTURE DOESN’T WAIT. And neither should you. If your trip of a lifetime includes wolves, bears and bison, it’s time to visit Cody. Get a vacation guide and plan your Great American Adventure at CodyYellowstone.org or call 1-800-393-CODY.

Manhattan, KS OH ROSS-CHILLICOTHE,

Because of their cultural significance, these sites are part of the Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks nomination to receive inscription to the World Heritage List.

Chillicothe & Ross County, Ohio are nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Region in southern Ohio. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy five State Parks, a National Park with five sites, along with many City and County Parks. These sites collectively provide nearly 200 miles of trails for hiking and biking through beautiful forests and prairies that provide spectacular views of scenic vistas, ravines, and mature woodlands.

In addition to the beautiful landscape, Hopewell Culture National Historical Park’s sites offer visitors the opportunity to view prehistoric earthworks that were created over 2,000 years ago. These magnificent earthworks were built to monumental sizes and with precise, geometrical shapes. Much about this culture remains a mystery, however these sites have been identified to be locations for celebrations, funerals, and rites of passage for this culture.

The State Parks offer a variety of amenities and activities for families. You can enjoy paddling along calm waters of lakes, playing a round of disc golf, designated beaches for swimming, miniature golf, and even rock climbing. There are many areas for children to play and picnic areas through the Parks to spend quality time with the entire family.

Beyond the trails and parks of Ross County, waterways offer an outlet for a relaxing afternoon while exploring the region from a kayak or canoe. Enjoy the beautiful landscape and wildlife while you navigate the stretches of long easygoing pools, shallow riffles, and rocks along the way. With varying water levels throughout the year it’s great for beginners and experienced kayakers.

To find out more about these adventures, request your complimentary copy of the RossChillicothe Visitors Guide by calling (800) 413-4118 or online at www.VisitChillicotheOhio.com.

MANHATTAN, KS

Bitter winds. Blanketing snow.

RAGING FIRE.

Violent storms. Stampeding buffalo. Sights, smells and sounds of the prairie are re-created with stunning authenticity at the immersive theatre experience “Tallgrass Prairie: Tides of Time at Manhattan’s Flint Hills Discovery Center." These life-like, theatrical simulations introduce visitors to the prairie as do the center’s engaging exhibits, multi-media films and interactive children’s programs explaining the region’s geology, animal habitats and rich history.

Learn about prairie conservation initiatives, the tallgrasses’ sprawling root system, native wildlife, indigenous wildflowers, Native American prairie culture, historic railroad towns and pioneer wagon trains that traversed the Great Plains of Kansas. Visitors relax on the roof garden landscaped with native prairie grasses and wildflowers.

Manhattan’s rolling landscape offers many biking and hiking trails, challenging golf courses and easily accessed waterways for boating and fishing. The Linear Trail along the Kansas River traverses the eastern, western and

southern portions of the city. Walking trails at City Park and Anneberg Park offer changing scenery and varying elevations. Or challenge yourself on one of Konza Prairie’s three scenic trails ranging from 2.6 miles to 6.2 miles long. The land along these trails has never been touched by a plow. Natural vistas are the same as those seen by pioneers and Native Americans hundreds of year ago when bison roamed the prairie.

From waterways to eclectic dining options, Manhattan has it all!

Oh Manhaan !

VISITMANHATTANKS.ORG

COME OUT AND PLAY IN OUR BACKYARD. Manhattan’s rolling landscape presents a variety of biking and

hiking trails, challenging golf courses and easily

accessed waterways. This vast region is yours to explore. Find your happy place in Manhattan.

FLAGSTAFF, AZ

DISCOVER FLAGSTAFF

CITY OF SEVEN WONDERS AND ENDLESS TRAILS Flagstaff is known as the “City of 7 Wonders” at 7,000 feet surrounded by awe-inspiring wonders at every turn, endless trails to explore, and only 80 miles from Grand Canyon National Park. The best itinerary includes Flagstaff as the hub for an adventure to discover the city of seven wonders: Grand Canyon National Park, Walnut Canyon National Monument, Sunset Crater National Monument, Wupatki National Monument, Oak Creek Canyon, the San Francisco Peaks and Coconino National Forest.

DAY ONE: BUCKET LIST & BEER • Play in Flagstaff’s backyard, capture breathtaking views and check-off Grand Canyon National Park from the bucket list.

• Return to Flagstaff to dine in one of 200 restaurants, listen to live music in historic downtown and enjoy awardwinning craft beers on the Flagstaff Brewery Trail.

DAY TWO: NATIONAL MONUMENTS & MORE • Explore Wupatki National Monument featuring rock walls of 800-year-old pueblos that dot a desert landscape.

Photo Credit: Discover Flagstaff

• Discover Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument showcasing powerful geologic forces and the history of Apollo moon missions as an astronaut training ground. Did you know all the astronauts that walked on the moon trained in Flagstaff?

• Hike the Island Trail at Walnut Canyon National Monument and walk among cliff dwellings and view beautiful overlooks on the Rim Trail.

• Encounter endless trails like West Fork, Slide Rock or Grasshopper Point through scenic Oak Creek Canyon with dramatic switchbacks and colorful redrock formations.

DAY THREE: THRILL-SEEKERS & STARGAZING • Bikers find the San Francisco Peaks a mountain paradise with multiple trails such as the Weatherford Trail or Abineau Trail and some that lead to underground lava tubes or Arizona’s highest point via the Kachina Trail. Flagstaff also offers a vast network of pathways on the Flagstaff Urban Trail System (FUTS) and has been designated as a bicycle-friendly community by the League of American Bicyclists.

• Experience Arizona’s best zip line

course through the Coconino National Forest at Flagstaff Extreme Adventure Course for a thrilling adventure in the world’s largest contiguous Ponderosa pine forest. Flagstaff is also a climbing epicenter with a multitude of opportunities for outdoor professional climbing and bouldering in popular sites like Solitude Canyon and Hobo Jungle.

• Stargazing is re-imagined at Lowell Observatory at the NEW Giovale Open Deck Observatory. Lowell Observatory is where Pluto was discovered in 1930 and Flagstaff is the world’s first international dark sky city.

Flagstaff’s city of seven wonders offers the ideal location for outdoor adventure in a four-season climate with clean mountain air and stunning views with an infinite number of trails that meander through beautiful Ponderosa pines, Aspen trees and northern Arizona terrain. Check Grand Canyon off the bucket list, explore national monuments, zip-line in the pines, enjoy scenic drives, beautiful trails, stargazing and award-winning craft beer. Get here.

ENDLESS

ADVENTURE

r u o y t Star ! e c n e i r e p X SMT San Marcos, TX is a groove. An experience. Catch a sunrise from 1,000+ acres of trails, paddle our spring-fed river, then head to one of seven craft breweries. And that’s just day one. Plan your visit at TourSanMarcos.com. www.VisitSMTX.com • 512-393-5930

@TourSanMarcos

HAVASU FALLS ARIZONA

AMERICA’S PARKS O u t S tA n d I n g W At E R fA l l S

There’s noThing like a waTerfall To remind you of your place in The greaTer universe. waTer pouring from high overhead, rushing down To plunge inTo a deep pool, filling The air wiTh noise and misT.

a

moment of unbridled chaos in the quiet of nature. The steady roar and looming majesty of America’s waterfalls make them an awe-inspiring destination. Travelers will gladly trek through unforgiving wilderness and over challenging pathways for a chance to look upon the face of a huge waterfall.

To put it simply, a waterfall is a place where water has eroded the surrounding soft rock and is now pouring over a ledge of concealed hard rock. The process takes thousands of years, and as the water pounds into the pool forming at the bottom of the fall the waterfall gets taller and the pool gets deeper. Some waterfalls even undercut the soft rock directly beneath the hard rock layer, which leads to a waterfall you can get behind! Quite an experience. This natural phenomenon can be found all over the United States – each of the fifty states has at least one waterfall. Where you have rivers and elevation and soft rock, you’ll eventually get a waterfall.

Why do we love waterfalls? Some people simply love them for their sheer grandeur – they are powerful and uncontrollable. Watching the water come crashing down from above is breathtaking.

Adventure Outdoors | Spring 2020 | 19

The repeTiTive flowing moTion of The waTer is somewhaT sooThing, almosT hypnoTic.

The repetitive flowing motion of the water is somewhat soothing, almost hypnotic. The splendor of untamed nature, so rare in this modern age.

Other people love the element of danger that surrounds waterfalls.

There is a massive physical challenge in the idea of going over a waterfall and surviving. There have been several occurrences of foolhardy people attempting to go over a waterfall in a barrel – some of them survived, but certainly not all. As recently as 2018, three YouTubers fell from the top of a waterfall in British Columbia while swimming unsafely.

America is full of incredible waterfalls in its national parks, available for the visiting. The most famous, of course, is the magnificent Niagara Falls State Park on the border between New York and Canada. Niagara Falls State Park is host to two waterfalls – the American Falls in New York, and the Horseshoe Falls in Canada. You can get up close and personal with the American Falls by visiting the Cave of the Winds, which will take you 175 feet down the gorge and within feet of the falls itself.

Or, you can take the Maid of the Mist boat ride to experience the falls’ majesty from the river below.

If you’re on the Pacific coast, indulge your waterfall desires by visiting Mount Rainier National Park. This jewel of Washington state has a staggering twenty-one waterfalls, ranging in height from the miniscule – the ten-foothigh Goat Falls – to the massive – Fairy Falls, 680 feet high. As an additional bonus you’ll have the opportunity to explore Mount Rainier, one of America’s finest mountains.

The Pacific Northwest is a perfect place to spot waterfalls. Driving through the winding mountain roads, you might even be lucky enough to spot a tiny unnamed waterfall doggedly making its way down a cliff face alongside the highway.

falls

havasu

Given another five hundred years, who knows what that little rivulet will accomplish?

Farther south, you could find yourself exploring the majestic splendor of the Grand Canyon. This natural wonder is also host to several beautiful waterfalls,

islands of life in the searing Arizona desert. For a full fairy tale experience, make your way to Elves Chasm – this delicate grotto along the Royal Arch Loop is host to a spark of greenery and a cascading waterfall that will make you feel like you stepped over the border into fairyland. However, beware!

This trail is extremely challenging and strenuous and should only be attempted by experienced backpackers who have done all the necessary research! For the grizzled adventurer among us, Havasu Falls located in the Grand Canyon is gorgeous.

UPTRAVEL.COM

COPPER HARBOR

It is located right next to the Grand Canyon, on Havasupai Tribe land. This waterfall is not for the simple day hiker, though – you must make a reservation and plan an overnight journey. It is a challenging hike in an area prone to flash flooding, so make sure you go prepared. For those who are up to the journey, however, the opportunity is well worth it.

If you want to stand in awe of the true power of nature, if you want to connect with the outside world, if you want to witness views that take your breath away… visiting a waterfall is the way to go.

ELY, NV

“Ely currently has over 40 miles of mountain bike singletrack in an ever-expanding trail system that leaves right from downtown.”

“Get your ticket to the end of the line.”

Steam trains have shuttled passengers throughout the west for over a century. So has the bicycle! That glorious era of engineering is alive and well in Ely, Nevada at the Nevada Northern Railway National Historic Monument. Trains run daily, Spring through Fall, and carry passengers on the same routes as it did 110 years ago. Now you can enjoy having you and your bike shuttled to the end of the line during any regular scheduled train and ride one of many routes

back to town at your own pace with the brand new “Trains and Trails Ticket”. Either direction the train goes, riders will have options ranging from 6 miles all the way up to 20 miles or more back to town. Routes consists of rolling dirt roads that go past historic mining, railroad, and ranching sites, garnet collection areas, and gorgeous mountain views in all directions. Routes are suitable for families with kids who want to have a fun, unique experience, but also offers the option to extend your ride up to distances that will make the most experienced cyclists sweat.

Ely currently has over 40 miles of mountain bike singletrack in an everexpanding trail system that leaves right from downtown. The county also

boasts hundreds of miles of mountain roads for gravel exploration, but it is one of the only places in the country where you can use a historic train to shuttle you to these recreation opportunities. Ely is a year-round mountain town situated at the eastern end of Nevada’s Loneliest Road, Highway 50 and intersects with Highway 93.

Home to two state parks and Nevada’s only national park, vast recreation opportunities are an easy drive from Las Vegas, Salt Lake City, or Reno. Ely is a place where history, arts, and the outdoors have come together for over 150 years to define this remote community that has played a major role in the Nevada and the American story.

In true frontier spirit, Race the Rails is an annual event in September where cyclist load their bikes on the steam train for a ride to the historic mining town of Ruth. After a pleasant 45 minute trip through time, participants then unload, line up, and race the train back to town either on pavement or dirt where music and a banquet await.

An experience that was limited to only once a year is now available anytime with the “Trains and Trails Ticket� at the Nevada Northern Railway. Go to ElyNevada.net for more information or NNRY.com for tickets. #RideElyNV

BLAIR COUNTY, PA

Outdoor Adventures the entire family can enjoy

If you’re looking for outdoor adventures with a unique flare, make the trip to Blair County, Pennsylvania. The county’s state park features massive kilns on one of its trails. A family friendly bike trail offers a trip through Pennsylvania’s railroad history. A Revolutionary War Fort invites you to experience nature trails that surround the historical site.

CANOE CREEK STATE PARK was chosen by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) and its Bureau of Parks as one of "Twenty Must-See Pennsylvania State Parks”. The park offers 12 miles of trails. They take you through forests, wetlands and along the lakeshore. One popular trail is the Limestone Loop. This 1.2 mile trail is rated as easy and follows the old railroad grade to the Blair Limestone Company Kilns used during the 1900s. The kiln structures have remained as one of the park’s main features. Like many of the park’s trails, it’s a great trail for sighting woodland birds and wildflowers. Canoe Creek State Park is on the path followed by numerous species of migratory birds including waterfowl, bald eagles and ospreys. The wetlands provide habitat for birds like the bluebird, oriole, red-winged blackbird and the brown thrasher.

THE LOWER TRAIL continues to be a trail sought out by those interested in an outdoor adventure related to railroad history. Much of the Lower Trail was part of the original towpath of the Pennsylvania Main Line Canal which operated in the 1800s. At the end of the canal era, the Pennsylvania Railroad began using the property. Eventually the railroad abandoned the land. It then became a unique place for recreational use and was opened to the public as The Lower Trail.

FORT ROBERDEAU HISTORIC SITE is a 230-acre park with nature trails, exhibits, a picnic area and tours of the reconstructed Revolutionary War 1778 lead mine fort. The maintained trails are ideal for families with young children.

They take you through the wooded forest, past sinkholes and past an open meadow. There is no cost to explore the grounds.

Tours of the fort are available May through October for a minimal cost. The grounds are open all year.

For more information on things to do and places to stay, visit explorealtoona.com.

The family friendly trail is nearly 17 miles and invites users on a trip through nature and history. Trailheads are called “Stations” because when the railroad ran, there were station stops at these locations. Along the trail there are remnants of the canal era, including remains of locks, foundations of lock tenders’ houses, and the historical Mt. Etna iron plantation area. Portions of the trail run along the Juniata River where there are parts of massive concrete rock crushers from abandoned stone quarries. It’s open year-round for biking, hiking, horseback riding, bird watching and photography.

CATTARAUGUS COUNTY, NY

Warmer weather is here and so is the chance to get outside to watch nature blossom! Cattaraugus County, known as the Enchanted Mountains of Western NY, offers fantastic views of the forming leaves on the trees, plenty of places to stop and smell the owers, and ways to warm up those muscles from a long, cold winter! Check out some of our enchanting major outdoor attractions this spring!

Rock City Park will offer visitors a spectacular view of the Enchanted Mountains from "Signal Rock", where they can see all the new leaves forming on the trees.

Discover 80 foot tall rocks that have been left over from the ice age.

Hike the trail that leads under, around and sometimes through these magniďŹ cent rocks then check out the souvenir and rock shop or the Fluorescent Light Rock Room. The grass is always greener at Griffis Sculpture Park, where nature combines with art. Hike along the trail to come upon over 250 enormous sculptures. Adults like the park because it has beauty like no other, while children like the park because you can climb on some of the sculptures! Fun to visit in any season, visitors enjoy feeling the warmth of the sun while resting beside a giant giraffe or by the ladies near the lake.

30 | Spring 2020 | Adventure Outdoors

Warmer weather also means warmer water! Float your boat and soak up the sun along 91 miles of natural shoreline in the Reservoir, launching at Onoville Marina. "Put in" at Onoville Marina, the largest inland marina in New York State. Campsites, dock space and fuel dock are available as well as great dining nearby at the Horseshoe Inn and Kinzoo Grill. View the beautiful scenery of rolling hills, crystal clear water, and wooded areas as you drift or speed along! Boat rentals are available at the Bayview Mini-Mart and Ice Cream Parlor.

With over 65,000 acres, Allegany State Park is the largest state park in New York State and has a multitude of outdoor activities in a year round setting. The two sections of the Park, Red House Area and Quaker Area, offer nature and adventure tourism for those seeking to explore the great outdoors with miles of trails.

New York’s LARGEST State Park, Allegany State Park

New Alle York’s Larg

World’s LARGEST exposure of quartz conglomerate, Rock City Park

Discover the LARGEST attractions in the Enchanted Mountains!

1-800-331-0543 | EnchantedMountains.com

LARGEST outdoor sculpture park, Griffis Sculpture Park

New York’s LARGEST inland marina, Onoville Marina

Take to any of the trail systems for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.

Some of the best single-track mountain biking in Western NY can be found in the Red House Area at the Art Roscoe Trail System. There are gift shops, a restaurant, snack areas, and natural attractions such as Stone Tower, Thunder Rocks, and old Fire Towers. Or spend time around the campfire, with your family, connecting to each other.

So get into the Swing of Spring by making a trip to the Enchanted Mountains of Western New York. For free information on any of these activities or events, or to request free travel guides, call 1-800-331-0543 or visit EnchantedMountains.com.

Adventure Outdoors | Fall 2018 | 31

ELKO, NV

Challenge Yourself to Stay on the (Ruby Crest) Trail.

Nevada ≠ Vegas. There’s a gem hidden in Nevada’s northeast corner awaiting discovery…a Ruby to be exact.

The Ruby Mountain Range offers a multitude of year-round activities for everyone – extreme outdoor enthusiasts to young explorers will discover snowcapped mountains, alpine lakes, waterfalls, wildflowers and occasional wildlife in the Rubies. Drive up the Lamoille Canyon Scenic Byway and admire glacier carved canyons while hoping to spot big horned sheep grazing in the rock outcroppings. Along the way you’ll find many trails offering hiking opportunities for all skill levels, leading the adventurer to even more unexpected beauty in what’s otherwise presumed to be a dry, desert, neon state.

The Rubies have been called the “Range of Clouds”, “Nevada’s Swiss Alps” and Andrew at reasonnumber7.com went as far to say “Lamoille Canyon is the Yosemite Valley of Nevada. Except with 3 billion fewer visitors.” From the roads end trail head in Lamoille Canyon there are six trails ranging from two to seven miles, all of which have at least one alpine lake along the way.

For those seeking the greatest challenge, pack your camping gear and head out to hike the Ruby Crest Trail. At 31-43 miles (no two sources agree) and featuring 14 named alpine lakes, the RCT can be covered in one long, intense day or over the course of a week or more depending on how one wants to approach the adventure.

While not always clearly marked, there are rock cairns along the way to reassure hikers they’re on the right path.

Veteran hikers seem to unanimously recommend starting at Harrison Pass, elevation 7,200’ and ending in Lamoille Canyon at 8,780’. The highest point along the Trail is Wines Peak, reaching 10,893’ in elevation. A pointto-point hike, there is a shuttle service available to get you to the starting

point so your car is waiting for you at the end.

Global hiker and RCT veteran Lydia Breidenbaugh, whose photos are featured here, describes the trail as “arid high desert sprinkled with aspen forests on the southern end, sweeping plateaus through the middle, streams, glacial cirques with alpine lakes, and glaciated valleys.

The trail is long enough to provide solitude and challenging enough to bring a sense of accomplishment. I've made a lot of good memories along this trail and will be back for more.”

Elko, Nevada is located 423 miles north of Las Vegas, conveniently half way between Reno, Nevada and Salt Lake City, Utah and halfway way from California’s Bay Area to Yellowstone National Park along Interstate 80. Contrary to the neon lights, glitz and chaos of the south, Elko offers the opportunity to slow down, relax and explore nature, art, culture and a lively social scene…all after challenging yourself with a hike on the Ruby Crest Trail.

JACKSONVILLE, IL

Conveniently located between Springfield, IL and St. Louis, MO, Jacksonville is a thriving community rich in historical treasures, unparalleled educational institutions, growing businesses, and hospitality all its own.

Stop by and visit us to experience some of our wide-range of sports and recreation. For the outdoorsman, the Jacksonville Area is home to an award-winning lake for fishing, boating, parks, and campgrounds.

For the athletic-type, there is a dirt race track which world-renowned racers have raced on, and a large sports complex in Lenz Field which hosts multiple tournaments a year.

Visitors will find lots to do, both night and day.

For the history lover, the city’s rich heritage includes numerous interesting sites that help make the past rel-

evant to all generations. Come follow in the footsteps of Abraham Lincoln through historic Jacksonville.

See the actual places and hear the real stories of Lincoln as told by his friends and associates while Looking for Lincoln in Jacksonville. Be sure to take part in the historic homes walking tour as well.

Jacksonville has a strong history, particularly in the 19th century. Jacksonville is home to two Civil War generals, a very vocal abolitionist community, and was an active stop on the Underground Railroad as

slaves made their way to freedom in the North. There are many places to visit highlighting this history, including the Governor Duncan Mansion and Woodlawn Farm, the showcase homestead of Jacksonville’s Underground Railroad network.

No visit in Jacksonville is complete without stopping by the newly restored downtown. Visitors will ďŹ nd entertainment, dining, and shopping all in the heart of this downtown community.

Staying one night or even a week? Jacksonville offers national brand hotels as well as a locally-owned bed and breakfast in the historical part of town. Want to camp?

Jacksonville offers that, too. There are three great loca-

tions that individuals and/or families can enjoy. All provide a good night’s sleep.

Choices are numerous, and visitors will be sure to have fun (and maybe even learn a few things, too).

Further information is available by calling the Jacksonville Area Convention & Visitors Bureau at 800-5935678 or visit jacksonvilleil.org.

W Westward Exp ansion

Conestoga covered wagons, Scotts Blu National Monument, Oregon Trail, Nebraska

Y

The Oregon Trail

ou have died of dysentery.” A familiar refrain to those who grew up with the 1970’s computer game The Oregon Trail. In reality, what most of us know as a video game is based on a real-life historical wonder – the Oregon Trail was a perilous 2000-mile route that pioneers and migrants used to try and find a better life in the American West. From the 1830s through the 1860’s, hundreds of thousands of people packed their whole lives into covered wagons and set off on a journey through wild, unexplored territory – battling nature, disease, and Native Americans in search of a place to call home.

This was a dangerous trek at the best of times – not only did the pioneers have to deal with natural challenges, such as rushing rivers and huge mountains, they had to deal with the natural pitfalls of having an assortment of humanity clustered together. Disease was extremely common among the wagon train, especially those like cholera, typhoid and yes – dysentery; anything that could be acquired by drinking contaminated water.

Ever since the United States became a nation, there has been a cultural emphasis on expansion into every corner of the land available to us. Back in the 1800’s, much of the land to the West of the Mississippi was still largely unknown. Lewis and Clark were the first to officially undertake the journey, under the aegis of President Jefferson. They spent two years seeking a trail to the Northwest, and laid the groundwork for the fur traders and mostly Methodist missionaries ready to try their luck on the other side of the looming Rockies. As wagons and companies and traders made their way West over time, an established route emerged – it kicked off in Illinois and stretched across the Northwest, winding across prairie and arcing over mountains, finally culminating in Oregon. Settlers who made it all the way to Oregon were granted land for free, as long as they worked and improved it. For many people, this promise was enough to draw them out across the country.

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Bronze statue of Meriwether Lewis and William Clark is deemed as the official end of the Lewis and Clark Trail.

ION N MISS alla A M T I H W W MARCUS egon Trail near of a r e O it s on the Washington, e tribe Walla in e by the Cayus n decimated e massacr pulation had be in 1865. o n p io t e c s who easles infe by a m

As the seasons turned toward winter, hypothermia became another real risk. Even though the wagons were only going two to three miles an hour, they were very difficult to stop; people getting on and off the wagons while they were moving were sometimes run over despite the slow speed. Since the pioneers were expanding into Native territory, they were often attacked by Native Americans who resented the intrusion into their land.

Clearly the settlers had a lot to deal with on their way West. So why go at all? Why did so many choose to put their own lives and the lives of their families on the line? Some were running from problems back East. Some just wanted a piece of land to call their own. Some craved the freedom of the unexplored West. Thousands of people with thousands of reasons, all traveling by covered wagon onward to their destiny – a destiny they were creating for themselves. The quintessential American dream – Manifest Destiny in motion.

You can still travel the Oregon Trail today, although it is much more simple than it was in 1850. Independence Rock in Wyoming, a massive rock formation that loomed in the distance and gave travelers something to aim at, is now a State Historic Site.

Oregon Trail Pioneer Names Carved in Independence Rock

John Wayne in movie art for the ďŹ lm 'The Oregon Trail', 1936.

The rock itself is coated in the names of explorers and pioneers that used it as a landmark and guiding light, still legible today. You can also visit the grave of Rebecca Winters in Nebraska, one of the few marked graves along the trail. Her original grave marker – an iron wagon tire with her name painstakingly carved into it – is still there, along with a memorial. Oregon itself is full of Oregon Trail memorials and museums, as well as interactive locations and state parks. The great migration of pioneers Westward along the trail is something that remains strong in our cultural memory, and is something we can learn about and learn from for years to come.

CLARKSVILLE, TN

WHERE HIPSTER MEETS

HERITAGE larksville, Tennessee C

bravest men and women on the planet. This level of determination and tenacity propels the city forward while honoring its past.

Clarksville, Tennessee is a legendary place that produces legendary people.

Development is thriving, with new shops, restaurants and breweries opening regularly and entrepreneurs possess a strong passion to keep the city thriving. This immersion of hip and trendy, set among the historic, creates a vibrancy and energy that defines Clarksville today.

TRAILBLAZERS The city’s rich history permeates its riverfront and gorgeous downtown architecture, but you can also learn a lot from the city’s people. Clarksville is home to two Olympic athletes -- both of whom were trailblazers, champions, and indisputable legends -- and an Army division filled with some of

HISTORIC ATTRACTIONS Clarksville’s military history spans from the Revolutionary War era through modern conflicts. The well-preserved Fort Defiance Civil War Park is one of the few remaining earthworks forts in the county. Constructed as a defensive fort in 1861 by Confederate troops to control the river approach to Clarksville, this scenic spot tops a 200foot bluff overlooking the confluence of the Cumberland and Red Rivers.

Reenactment events throughout the year give visitors a glimpse of life during Civil War days.

A drive into rural Montgomery County transports visitors to a mid-19th Century pioneer settlement at Historic Collinsville. This 40-acre site features 16 authentically restored log buildings dating from 1830-1900 that are filled

with period furnishings. Collinsville is open Saturdays and Sundays, May-October.

Dunbar Cave, at over eight miles in length, is one of the largest in the area. Part of a 144-acre state park, the cave remains 58 degrees year around. A unique feature is Mississippian Native American iconography, dating from approximately 1350 AD. In the 1930s the cave became a hotspot for local bands and entertainment.

The iconic Customs House Museum, built in 1898, has a unique architecture you’ll not find anywhere else. Its impressive myriad of styles makes the building a stand-out. It’s also an excellent source of educational, artistic and family-fun resources with both rotating and permanent exhibits like a massive train display and bubble cave.

Learn more at visitclarksvilletn.com/history.

Hip at Heart

AUTHENTIC FROM THE START From natural beauty and worldly cuisines to craft, culture, and historic preservation, explore what makes Clarksville a must visit destination.

Plan your trip today at visitclarksvilletn.com.

MARSHALL COUNTY, IN

THE PLACE OF A

MEMORABLE VACATION

Marshall County is where you go to get away from it all. To shake off your cares with a meandering drive down county roads. To discover communities where people still greet you with a smile and a friendly word.

42 | Spring 2020 | Adventure Outdoors

While we’re chock full of the rural charms you’d expect, you’re also sure to uncover a few pleasant surprises during your stay. Like the fact we’re home to a stunning two championship golf courses located on the same property with a golf academy. Or that you’ll find Indiana’s second largest natural lake here, Lake Maxinkuckee, circled by a welcoming lakeside community, Culver. Follow Indiana’s first barn quilt trail throughout every season. Unwind by the season. Spring, the time to watch the first buds on the trees.

Summer is the time to flock to the beach or hit the greens.

Fall, time to gather in the harvest. Winter, time to enjoy snow recreation.

Camping BEST RV

DESTINATIONS

For some people, camping is about getting as close to nature as possible – sleeping in the outdoors, cooking over a fire, and getting away from all modern conveniences. For other people, though, camping is best when you can bring a few modern conveniences with you. Traveling the country in an RV is the perfect compromise between rugged naturalism and the best of modern-day life – being able to spend time away from the hustle and bustle of the city while still having a working toilet is the way to experience the outdoors. Read on for some of the top RV destinations our country has to offer.

> FLAGLER BEACH, FL

BEVERLY BEACH CAMPTOWN Imagine waking up during your camping trip, stepping out of your RV, and hearing the roar and crash of ocean waves right in front of you. At Beverly Beach Camptown in northern Florida, you can experience just that – it’s one of the very few RV resorts located directly on a seawall by a beach. Miles of white sand and blue ocean are available for you to explore, as well as nearby St. Augustine – the nation’s oldest city. Truly a destination for the whole family. > DEER PARK, WA

SPOKANE RV RESORT The Pacific Northwest is a region filled with quiet beauty. Rugged mountains, dense greenery, and incredible sunsets will highlight your journey to Spokane RV Resort in Washington. This picturesque resort is surrounded by amazing views and provides free wifi, free electricity, and discounted play on the 18-hole golf course next to the resort. This is a fabulous place for you and your loved ones to relax and unwind. > DUNBAR, PA

KENTUCK CAMPGROUND IN OHIOPYLE STATE PARK Rolling hills and forests surround Kentuck Campground, tucked away in Ohiopyle State Park. This site is perfect for those who want to get a little bit closer to nature – from the comfort of their RV, of course. Enjoy the serenity of being surrounded by wilderness, and bask in the peace and quiet of it all. Feel free to bring your dog – they have pet-friendly sites as well! A little slice of heaven in Pennsylvania.

Traveling the country in an RV

is the perfect compromise between rugged naturalism and the best of modern-day life – being able to spend time away from the hustle and bustle of the city while still having a working toilet is the way to experience the outdoors.

CHEYENNE, WY

CHEYENNE CONJURES UP MENTAL IMAGES OF ITS WILD AND STORIED HISTORY Cheyenne conjures up mental images of its wild and storied history. Once home to outlaws, cattle barons, rodeo stars, cowboys and cowgirls, suffragettes and legends; the Magic City of the Plains has always been a place to find adventure. Today’s Cheyenne is no different for thrill seekers with miles and miles of single track, rock climbing routes to the top of the world, and wild places to explore.

The perfect jumping off point for an outdoor experience is Curt Gowdy State Park. Located just 25 minutes west of downtown, and named after the famed sports broadcaster and Wyoming native, this natural gem is nestled in the pine covered foothills of the Rocky Mountains. Three snow melt fed, crystal clear reservoirs stocked with trout and salmon are at the center of the park and offer plenty of room for stand-up paddle boarding, boating and camping on the shoreline.

Fans of single track will find this quiet corner of the Rockies perfect for exploring. No matter your jam, take advantage of trail running, hiking or crushing it on your mountain or fat bike. The 35 miles of trails are your playground. The International Mountain Biking Association rated the trail system as Epic featuring a high-quality ride and experience. Need to borrow wheels? Rock on Wheels in downtown Cheyenne rents bikes of all styles for all abilities ensuring an outstanding experience.

Located 10 minutes west of Curt Gowdy State Park are the Medicine Bow National Forest and the Vedauwoo Recreation Area.

Named by the indigenous people who called the area home, it means “Land of the Earthborn Spirit”. Here you will find world class rock climbing and bouldering opportunities on breathtaking rock formations made of pink feldspar, white quartz, and black specks of hornblende. Forged by fire, ice and wind, climbing opportunities for all levels can be found. At a starting point of 8200 feet, it won’t take long to enjoy the amazing vistas of the Rocky Mountains and the vast expanse of the high plains.

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Downtown Cheyenne offers its own opportunity for exploration.

Four breweries, a distillery, live music, museums and amazing dining opportunities abound.

The Cheyenne of today still offers wild west adventure that allows the traveler to make history and memories of their own.

Staying closer to the ground, explore miles and miles of dirt roads for ATVing, hiking trails and back country camping opportunities. Moose, elk, mule deer and countless other birds and animals call this special place home.

Outdoor adventure works up a thirst and hunger that needs to be satiated.

Found along Happy Jack Road on the way back to Cheyenne is the Bunkhouse Bar and Grill. Steaks, cold beer and good music wait for you, along with the occasional horse tied up out front.

PLATTE COUNTY, WY

Outdoor adventure, history, boating and more await you in Platte County, Wyoming!

#ThatsWY

Glendo State Park is one of southern Wyoming’s most popular boating parks. It offers visitors waterskiing, fishing and other water-based activities. Fishing is so good that Glendo has several fish records. Dayuse and overnight facilities feature improved campsites, comfort stations, tables and grills. A commercial concession at the reservoir provides visitors with complete marina services, motel units and fishing equipment.

Guernsey State Park provides seven campgrounds.

Five are around the lake. All include comfort stations, picnic tables, fire grills and drinking water. New yurts that sleep four with a deck, picnic table, fire pit and fire grills make for a unique camping experience. Enjoy an amazing view and a private area. The Guernsey Mu-

seum is a magnificent stone building – built by the Civilian Conservation Corps - with a roof that is framed with timbers and covered with split cedar shakes, and the floors were formed by pieces of smooth flagstone.

Oregon Trail Ruts and Register Cliff - The best-known emigrant trail in America stretches from Missouri to the Pacific Coast and enters Platte County between Fort Laramie and Guernsey.

During the most active period of the Oregon Trail, 18401870, an estimated 300,000 men, women and children traveled westward; view the ruts still visible today!

Wagon trains tried to reach Warm Springs, a mile southwest of Guernsey, on their first day out of Fort Laramie.

The waters of the springs afforded travelers a chance to wash clothes in warm water instead of cold river water. Along the way, thousands stopped to scratch their names into the soft sandstone of Register Cliff and can still be viewed today!

Phone: 307-322-2322 - Website: visitplatte.us

//////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// 48 | Spring 2020 | Adventure Outdoors

Swept AWAY!

get

Hiking!

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wyoming

biking!

and smelling the roses!

(Indian paintbrush Wyoming’s state flower)

oregon trail

1840

Plaae County wyoming

ref: AO2020

Phone: 307-322-2322 - Website: www.visitplatte.us/outad This ad was paid for with Platte County Lodging Tax funds

CHUGWATER

wheatland

guernsey

hartville

glendo

Go i n g OFF-ROAD Calico Ghost Town

Hidden Offroading Gems

MI

Drummond Island

If you are seeking both quality and quantity, then head to Drummond Island off the very northernmost tip of Michigan. Over 100 total miles of trail await you, at several levels of difficulty. Wind your way through the woods, over short rock climbs, and through large swathes of mud. There is so much beautiful scenery and assorted wildlife for you to see as you roar past – don’t pass up this amazing off-roading destination and head to Michigan as soon as you can.

TX

Hidden Falls Adventure Park

No matter what you ride, Hidden Falls Adventure Park has trails galore for you to explore. Deep in the heart of the Lone Star State and about an hour outside of Austin, this 2100 acre expanse will keep you occupied and riding your heart out. They even host late night wheeling on Friday and Saturday nights until midnight! If you want to set up your tent and stay the night, you’re more than welcome to as well. Make your reservations and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!

Rev your engines, splash some mud around, and get ready to get dirty. This spring is the best time to do some offroading, and we highly encourage you to check out some of these trails. You may have heard of them, you may not have, but they top our list as great destinations for going offroad.

CA

Calico Ghost Town

The abandoned mining town of Calico in California is the perfect place to take your dirt bikes, ATVs, and other offroad vehicles. Once a booming town built up around a silver and gold mine, now it is a piece of history preserved for the enjoyment of many. There are campgrounds and RV hook ups, as well as a multitude of off-road trails to explore – including an off-road path to Las Vegas, if you want to spice up your trip with a touch of gambling.

Kick up some desert dust on these twisty and challenging trails!

PARKERSBURG, WV

Mountwood ATV Adventures is one of West Virginia’s premier ATV and dirt bike parks. With 25 miles of trails that run from easy to difficult, and some beautiful views of the surrounding countryside, Mountwood is an increasingly popular destination for ATV enthusiasts of all ages. A trailside campground offers ride-in rideout convenience, as well as laundry and shower facilities, just in case you get muddy… lol.

PARK ERS BURG WEST VIRGINIA

Mountwood Park Family Campground offers 87 campsites suitable for tents, trailers and recreational vehicles, and two primitive cabins available for rent. The campground has 16 full hookup sites, 64 sites with electric/water and 7 primitive sites. Each site has a picnic table and fire ring. Multiple bathhouses are located throughout the campground offering hot showers and clean restroom facilities. Firewood, ice, souvenirs and camping supplies are available from the campground host while on duty. Families can enjoy a variety of campground activities throughout the season. A playground and New Nature Trail are also available for registered campers. Two beautiful lakeside cabins are available in the main park. Each unit sleeps up to six.

And if you’d prefer accommodations other than camping, nearby Parkersburg, West Virginia, offers a variety of hotels and motels to suit any budget.

Mountwood Park offers additional outdoor recreation opportunities for sportsman. The 50-acre lake is stocked to the gills and offers a relaxing morning or evening fishing experience to complement your day on the trails.

With some great attractions close at hand, Mountwood ATV Adventures is a great destination for a multi-day ATV Escape. The ATV park is just 15 minutes from Parkersburg and one of West Virginia’s most unique State Parks – Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park. Take a day off the trails and travel to the island on an old-fashioned sternwheel riverboat.

Ride where you’re welcome. Love where you ride. Whether it’s on four wheels or two, Mountwood ATV Adventure’s 25 miles of diverse terrain will challenge you. A trailside campground with shower and laundry facilities helps make for a great ATV vacation.

Don’t just seize the day.

Grab it by the handle bars.

Learn more at GreaterParkersburg.com

Greater PERSPECTIVE. Greater Parkersburg.

Then, relax and enjoy a cold beverage at one of Parkersburg’s two craft breweries. The North End Tavern and Brewery, know to locals as the NET, is West Virginias oldest tavern and restaurant. The “NET” burger is a perennial winner for “Parkersburg’s Best Burger”. Parkersburg Brewing Company, just four years old, is already winning national awards for beers like its Cell Block 304.

With a wide range of other restaurants and attractions, the Greater Parkersburg area makes Mountwood ATV Adventures a great choice for a weekend getaway or a full week of fun!

Adventure Outdoors | Spring 2020 | 53

HATFIELD & MCCOY COUNTRY

ADVENTURE AWAITS

in Hatfield & McCoy Country!

Tired of the “been there, done that?” Then it’s time for adventure in West Virginia's Hatfield & McCoy Country. Named for those feuding families and American legends, this mountain region is famous for its breathtaking scenery, rich culture and history and the best off-road trails in the USA. Here you'll find adventure on and off the road. Take an exhilarating, all-terrain vehicle ride on the HatfieldMcCoy Trails! Enjoy a leisurely paddle on the beautiful Guyandotte River or wet a fishing line in a mountain stream. Tour our historic sites and museums.

Visit with local craftsmen, listen to authentic mountain music, sample some moonshine or enjoy live outdoor theatre. Motorcycle enthusiasts love our smooth mountain highways. And hiking, mountain biking and

wildlife adventures guarantee family fun.

Go Off-Road in ATV Friendly West Virginia!

With over 700 miles of mountain trails and ATVfriendly towns along the way, there’s a lot to explore on the Hatfield-McCoy Trails. If you've never ridden an all terrain vehicle (ATV), you're in for the thrill of a lifetime. If you're an experienced rider, you're sure to find a challenge. Whether you’re looking for heartpounding thrills or just good

family fun, the HatfieldMcCoy Trails are the place for you. Don't own an ATV? No worries. Outfitters throughout the system offer rentals. It's a great way to explore this exciting family-friendly sport.

If you own a full-size offroad vehicle like a Jeep or Hummer, the Bearwallow Trail system was made for you. Of course, ATVs, utility vehicles (UTVs) and offroad motorcycles are also welcome.

Get a Taste of Hatfield & McCoy Country Hospitality Restaurants and lodging venues of all stripes can be found throughout our region. Appalachian chefs offer classics like Brunswick stew or specially prepared venison, as well as new twists on old favorites. Family-owned bakeries and coffee houses welcome visitors to "sit a spell" and watch the world go by while enjoying a fresh brew, dessert or classic West Virginia pepperoni roll.

After a full day of trailblazing and sightseeing, you'll need a place to lay your head. You'll find the brand hotels you know by name, but there's also a wealth of eclectic and unique lodging. Here, lovers escape to secluded lodges made for romance. And families will find plenty of space in luxury cabins nestled in our forested hills - rustic on the outside, but fully equipped with all the modern conveniences within. For RV enthusiasts and tent campers, full hookups and tent sites with water, electric and Wifi can be found in our mountaintop paradise.

Adventure, history and hospitality are all waiting for you right here. This vacation, blaze a new trail and make some legends of your own in Hatfield & McCoy country!

SOCORRO, NM

SOCORRO, NM Over two centuries before Christopher Columbus’ fabled sojourn to the New World from Spain, Piro Indians, the southernmost Pueblo tribe, inhabited villages along the Rio Grande.

Spanish explorers made their way north from Mexico, establishing the El Camino Real – the Royal Road into “New Spain.” As a result, they were frequent visitors at the Piro villages.

Socorro got its name in 1598 from explorer Juan de Oñate, whose tired and hungry men were given food and shelter by the Piros. Oñate renamed the Piro pueblo “Socorro,” which means “help” in Spanish. Also in 1598, the San Miguel Mission (one of the oldest churches in the country) was founded.

When New Mexico became a U.S. territory in 1848, the region saw some relief as the military established a series of forts for protection. In Socorro County, the Army established Fort

56 | Spring 2020 | Adventure Outdoors

Conrad in 1851, and then later relocated to the newly-built Fort Craig in 1854.

In 1889, Socorro, with her mines, mills and smelters, became the center of mining activity. As a result, the government’s new School of Mines (now New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology), opened in Socorro in 1893. NMT offers excellent engineering and science degree programs to its students, and also houses the New Mexico Tech Mineral Museum, which is thought by

many to be the “great treasure trove of the southwest.” The Mineral Museum opened in 1889, at the same time as the rest of the university.

Just south of Socorro is the Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge. The refuge is located on more than 57,000 acres and hosts its yearly “Festival of the Cranes” event in November. The Refuge has a visitor center, walking and hiking trails, and a driving tour with plenty of opportunities to see the area’s abundant wildlife.

Trinity Site, located on White Sands Missile Range, is the location of the first nuclear bomb detonation, which took place on July 16, 1945. Trinity Site is open twice yearly, in April and October, for public visits.

The Karl G. Jansky Very Large Array, simply known as the “VLA,” is one of the world’s premier astronomical radio observatories.

The new City of Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex features a covered rodeo arena, an outdoor practice arena, 98 horse stalls, a 2-mile walking/running trail, a 50 space RV park, 4 regulation-sized soccer fields, and a 5k cross-country track.

Socorro’s rich and diverse history has contributed to the city it is today. With its friendly spirit, incredible birdwatching opportunities, world-class science and technology developments, fascinating cultural attractions, and year-round outdoor recreation, Socorro offers everyone something to love. For more information please visit www.socorronm.org.

outdoor

EXPEDITIONS LA N D & W A TER A D V ENTU R ES

CANYONLANDS NATIONAL PARK

Adventure Outdoors | Fall 2018 | 59

LAND

GLACIER

NATIONAL PARK

MOST CHALLENGING TRAILS

You’re the kind of person who thrives on adrenaline-pumping, heart-racing, muscle-straining outdoor adventures. A simple walk along a nature trail or sipping margaritas on the beach is never going to be your idea of a perfect vacation – you want to challenge yourself, to push your body and mind to the limits as they have never been pushed before. You laugh in the face of fear and thrive on danger. These hot spots are beast mode enough to keep you on your toes and ready to roll.

MO

HUCKLEBERRY MOUNTAIN

Located in Glacier National Park, the Huckleberry Mountain Lookout trail is a little over eleven miles long, and leads you to a series of stunning views of the mountains of Montana, as well as plenty of wildflowers along the way. A challenging trail up a mountain, yes, but sounds beautiful, right? Right! Until you get to the bears.

Glacier National Park has the highest bear density in the lower 48 states –

563, at last count. When you are in the park, you are often within shouting distance of a bear, especially when summer comes and the huckleberries ripen. One or two bear attacks occur each year; if you plan to make this journey, be safe and stay away from bear food sources! Keep your eyes peeled, maintain an awareness of your surroundings, and have fun.

Bear attacks are no joke. There are many misconceptions about what to do in the case of a bear attack and doing the wrong thing might put your

life in danger. For instance, do not climb a tree if a bear charges you.

They can climb as well, and seeing you climb might incite them to chase after you. Different bears respond to different tactics, as well. If you are attacked by a grizzly bear, play dead and try not to move. If you are attacked by a black bear, do the exact opposite – wave your arms and fight back. This is a huge difference, so make sure you are constantly aware and know what you are doing! Do your research before heading up Huckleberry Mountain.

UT

THE MAZE

If your idea of the perfect hiking environment is scorching heat and arid landscapes, with stunning rock formations and sunsets you’ll never forget, then The Maze in Utah’s Canyonlands

National Park is your ultimate destination. This remote trail is only for the well-prepared and seasoned hiker – between navigating the twisting trail, carrying all your own water, and having to be prepared for any emergency that arises, this trail is not for the greenhorn among us.

“IF YOUR IDEA OF THE PERFECT HIKING ENVIRONMENT IS SCORCHING HEAT AND ARID LANDSCAPES, WITH STUNNING ROCK FORMATIONS AND SUNSETS YOU’LL NEVER FORGET, THEN THE MAZE IN UTAH’S CANYONLANDS NATIONAL PARK IS YOUR ULTIMATE DESTINATION.” In the event of an emergency, it might take rescuers up to three days to make it to where you are.

As far as challenges, though, it’s top of the list.

If you do decide to take on The Maze, make sure you know the signs and symptoms of heatstroke. Heatstroke comes on

when exposed to high temperatures and dehydration for an extended period of time, and can lead to unconsciousness if left unchecked. Symptoms might include a lack of sweating, nausea, a throbbing headache, rapid heartbeat, disorientation, and a handful of other symptoms. If you suspect heatstroke in you or

your hiking companion, call for medical help immediately and do your best to lower the afflicted person’s body temperature. Fan air over wetted skin, apply cold water or ice to the armpits, groin, neck, and back, and certainly move into the nearest shady area while you wait for help to arrive.

LAND

MOST CHALLENGING TRAILS

DEEP IN THE CATSKILLS MOUNTAINS LIE THE RUGGED PEAKS OF DEVIL’S PATH. THIS ARDUOUS JOURNEY IS CONSIDERED ONE OF THE HARDEST HIKES IN THE COUNTRY, ASCENDING NEARLY EIGHT THOUSAND FEET OVER THE COURSE OF TWENTY-FOUR MILES

NY

DEVIL’S PATH

Deep in the Catskills Mountains lie the rugged peaks of Devil’s Path.

This arduous journey is considered one of the hardest hikes in the country, ascending nearly eight thousand feet over the course of twenty-four miles. Many places in the hike require you to climb a vertical cliff wall,

and the trail itself is littered with rocks. This hike has limited water options, so pack accordingly and make sure you are in shape – your strength and your stamina will be tested, but the stunning nature scenery on the way there and at the hike’s culmination is well worth it.

The risk of falling and breaking something on this hike is greater than average, so make sure you are

prepared. If you break a bone on the trail, call 911 immediately. If there is bleeding, apply firm pressure with a clean cloth until bleeding stops.

Avoid moving the broken limb as much as possible, and if you can, try to splint the injury with something reasonably stiff to help immobilize it.

Seek medical attention as soon as possible. Stay safe and aware of your surroundings to avoid such an injury!

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MARTINSBURG-BERKELEY, WV

L

eave behind your everyday worries and escape to Berkeley County, WV, where small town meets big adventure.

Berkeley County offers the ultimate outdoor experience, from our rugged hiking paths to the scenic nature paths, public parks, fishing streams and nature preserves.

Lose yourself in the area’s lush scenery along the numerous hiking, walking and biking trails, from delicate West Virginia wildflowers to awe-inspiring waterfalls and incredible rock formations. Whether you want your outdoor adventure to span days or hours, you’ll never grow bored of the area’s extensive nature trails, catering to everyone from amateurs to hiking experts.

Adventurers can explore the 23,000-acre

Sleepy Creek Wildlife Management Area that contains extensive hiking, camping, fishing and boating opportunities. The Route 9 walking and biking trail stretches between Martinsburg and the Charles Town/Ranson area and offers users wide open views and diverse terrain from flat land to sloping hills.

Don’t forget to pack your lure and fishing rod beside your hiking boots and bike helmet. Sleepy Creek Lake, a 205-acre impoundment, provides trophy bass, crappie and northern pike, and it allows night fishing with permission. You can also fish from any of the public access streams flowing throughout the county.

If observing nature is more your style, Berkeley County has two nature preserves

that house wide variety of bird and plants. Stauffer’s Marsh Nature Preserve, in Back Creek Valley, and the Yankauer Nature Preserve each offer easy walking trails to allow visitors to observe the different plant species and trees that inhabit the reserves.

Finish a day of well-earned victory with a delicious meal in Martinsburg’s downtown food scene.

Change your view from the office window to the beautiful scenery of Berkeley County, WV. Plan your custom vacation and outdoor adventures through the Martinsburg-Berkeley County CVB’s website, www.travelwv.com or the CVB’s free app “Visit Martinsburg, WV.” The MartinsburgBerkeley County CVB can be reached at 304-264-8801.

Adventure is ready to be discovered in Berkeley County, WV with breathtaking outdoor opportunities, from traversing the 23,000-acre Sleepy Creek WMA to great hiking, biking, walking, camping, fishing and boating. Finish a day of well-earned victory with a delicious meal in the downtown food scene.

Your next great memory is waiting.

travelwv.com 304.264.8801

ONEIDA, NY

Get away to

“ROME, NEW YORK IS THE HISTORIC STARTING PLACE OF THE FIRST DIG OF THE ERIE CANAL IN 1817.”

OUTDOOR ADVENTURE

Oneida County, New York is a road cyclist’s dream. There are hundreds of miles of State highways and well maintained local roads with relatively low traffic that connect welcoming small towns and villages. Even the largest communities – the cities of Utica and Rome – are easily accessible and provide plenty of amenities for bicycle tourists.

There are very few unpaved roads in the area and the majority are suitable for riding. If you prefer to ride where the locals ride and rely on the advice of others, check out BikeThruHistory.com to search curated rides

for all abilities and interests.

Rome, New York is the historic starting place of the first dig of the Erie Canal in 1817. Join the fun of the annual Cycle The Erie bike tour, a 400-mile fully supported ride along the legendary Erie Canalway Trail, part of New York’s 750-mile Empire State Trail system. For a shorter organized ride, start with the Tour the Towpath , a 36-mile long land and water trail between DeWitt and Rome in Central New York.

It follows a portion of the Erie Canal which was active between 1825 and 1917.

Some of the best riding in Oneida County is on the backroads. Locally-owned bicycle tour operators provide customized itineraries and truly unique experiences based on decades of cycling throughout Oneida County’s landscape. As mountain biking interest grows throughout the U.S., trails in Oneida County have remained uncrowded and tranquil.

The Black River Environmental Protection Area (BREIA) Trails (breiax-countryski.org) provides year-round outdoor adventure people of all ages including, mountain biking, hiking, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

GET AWAY & RECONNECT

®

Reconnect with nature and get a fresh perspective in Oneida County. With 16 campgrounds and nearly 2,000 campsites, we have the ideal spot for your next camping getaway.

I LOVE NEW YORK logo is a registered trademark/service mark of the NYS Dept. of Economic Development, used with permission

C E N T R A L N E W YO R K ’ S G E TAWAY R E G I O N

It’s a camper’s paradise. Explore the best the outdoors has to offer in Central New York when you…get away to it all in Oneida County!

TheGetawayRegion.com/camping | 800.426.3132

With nearly 2,000 campsites, you’ll find the perfect spot to pitch a tent or park the RV. Take your pick of adventures ranging from rope courses to hiking and horseback riding, kayaking Class III rapids on Fish Creek to paddling the serene waterways of the historic Erie Canal. Soak up the sun on a beach getaway to Sylvan Beach featuring two miles of sandy beaches and an amusement park! This quintessential laid back beachfront community is the perfect family destination for boating and waterskiing on the pristine waters of Oneida Lake, the largest inland lake by volume in upstate New York. And oh, the fishing!

Oneida Lake is a bass master’s dream. Summer sunsets over Oneida Lake are a spectacular sight to behold.

Oneida County is the ideal getaway destination for adventures in the great outdoors. Visit theGetawayRegion.com for more information on events, where to stay and what to do! Find us on Facebook @oneidacountyny and Instagram @ocnewyork. Call 800-426-3132 or visit us online to order a FREE travel guide. Safe travels! #ocnewyork

GO

& Explore the Outdoors

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA’S INLAND EXPERIENCE Greater Ontario region boasts scenic mountains, deserts, vineyards and metropolitan areas that are both historic and cosmopolitan in character that make it ideal for leisure and business travel. We look forward to welcoming you to the Cities of Ontario and Rancho Cucamonga, California. The Ontario International Airport lets you fly right into the heart of Southern California.

The perfect location – with Greater Ontario as your base location, within an hour in any direction you can enjoy some of the best road trips Southern California has to offer. Get your kicks on Route 66, visit Big Bear Mountain Resorts and Alpine Lakes, explore the Mojave desert, dip your toes in the Pacific Ocean or bask in the sunshine of Palm Springs —�all within 60 minutes. �

Meet, Explore, Connect in Greater Ontario!

800.455.5755

GOcvb.org

Start your adventure at the California Welcome Center at Ontario Mills – our team of experts await your visit. The Greater Ontario Convention & Visitors Bureau is an unbiased, comprehensive resource when booking a tour, convention, meeting or event within the cities of Ontario and Rancho Cucamonga, California and beyond. Bring your family, enjoy a weekend, or make us your home base to explore all of Southern California. We look forward to your visit! GOcvb.org

LOUISIANA BAYOUS

WATER INLAND WATERWAYS

Spring is the best time of year to spend a day out on the water. Whether you are looking to go fishing with your buddies or test your strength on some whitewater rapids, spring’s balmy weather gives you the perfect opportunity to be outside amongst the flora and fauna of America’s gorgeous waterways. Inland waters tend to be calmer than ocean waters, and the biodiversity available is absolutely incredible. Instead of heading to the coast this spring, head inland – explore some of the diverse and wonderful waters that America has to offer.

LA

BAYOUS AND SWAMPS

What do you do when you’re floating on the bayou? Head deep into the South and wind your way amongst the trees and inlets, sunshine dappling the murky water and animals rustling the underbrush all around. The slow-moving water is perfect for floating in a boat, relaxing and reflecting. The bayous of Louisiana, Texas, and Alabama are mysterious and inviting, and are perfect for outdoor explorations. Hop on an airboat and skim across the water at breakneck

speeds, like a stone being skipped across a pond. Or climb into a rowboat and spend lazy hours with a fishing pole, listening to the birds sing while you try to land a huge fish. Keep an eye out for alligators, though! These huge reptiles will generally leave you

alone, but don’t tempt fate by bothering them, and don’t bother any alligator eggs. Keep an eye out for hawks, owls, herons, and the other beautiful birds around – you might spot something incredibly rare!

Swamps are also a great place for exploration and adventure. Stepping into a swamp is like stepping into another world; a world of humid green and dark water, a place where the sounds of the city fade away and you are left with just the noises of nature.

WATER INLAND WATERWAYS

MI

WATER INLAND WATERWAYS

“

STILL OTHERS HAVE HILLS AND OVERHANGING TREES SO YOU CAN JUMP OUT INTO THE WATER.

“

LAKES

Calm, blue, and inviting – there’s nothing more relaxing than spending the day out on the still waters of a lake. Ranging in size from the tiny to the massive, lakes can be found all over the world. Some are lined with beaches that give you the opportunity to lay out and get a rich tan without driving to the coast. Still others have hills and overhanging trees so you can jump out into the water. An afternoon spent out on a dock with friends, diving into the cold water and escaping the hot sun, is an afternoon well spent. Lakes are also perfect for the wilder side of small boat adventures – high speeds and high wakes make for perfect tubing adventures, being towed along recklessly behind a motorboat.

The world’s largest freshwater lake by surface area is Lake Superior, one of America’s Great Lakes. At it’s deepest it descends to over 1,300 feet. The lakes itself is dotted by islands that you can visit if you have a boat and a sense of adventure. If you prefer your bodies of water from afar you can take the Great Lakes Circle Tour, a scenic system of roads that connects all five of the Great Lakes as well as the St. Lawrence River.

Famous lakes or unnamed lakes, big or small, there’s something to do no matter where you aare. Everything from Jet-Skis to rope swings can be found on a lake. If you’re more of a sportsman, though, lakes offer the opportunity to fish for bass, smelt, sturgeon, and other delectable freshwater fish. Clean and cook them right there on the beach for the freshest meal you can possibly have. Whether you catch ‘the big one’ or get a story about ‘the one that got away’, your day on the lake will be a day well spent.

Visit www.visitchenango.com or call 607-334-1400

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Pharsalia Wildlife Management Area Town of Pharsalia. 607-753-3095 *4,356 acres available for wildlife observation, cross-country skiing, fishing, hunting, and trapping, snowmobiling, hiking & mountain biking. In 1926, the area became the first game refuge acquired by the state. Access depends on the weather conditions. New in 2018 it now features an accessible boardwalk that leads to an elevated, covered viewing platform overlooking Round Pond.

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Cook’s Pond Canoes. 18-acre pond located 3 miles east of Greene, south of Rte. 206. Fish: Largemouth bass, chain pickerel & panfish.

Genegantslet Creek One of the premiere trout streams in the region. This DEC fishing access site is located just outside of Genegantslet State Forest. Small accessible fishing platform with parking. Medium-small mostly tree-lined stream. (Excellent fly fishing) Fish: Bass and trout.

Whaupaunaucau State Forest Town of North Norwich. DEC office 607.674.4017 * 1,187 acres of trails that is available for cross-country skiing, hiking, hunting & trapping. Fishing is also available on Jeffrey’s Pond, a 10-acre impoundment. No motor-ized vehicles.

Hunts Pond Non-motorized watercraft, 50 acres, owned by NYS DEC, located 2 miles southwest of New Berlin. Fish: large-mouth bass, chain pickerel & yellow perch, rock bass.

Jackson Pond Canoes, 18 acres, located on Pharsalia

FISHING

Bowman Lake State Park 8 mi. west of Oxford.

607.334.2718 * 660 acres with hiking & nature trails, biking and snowmobile trails. Fishing, cross country skiing, hiking, snowmobiling and snow-shoeing are all allowed. Campsites, waterfront area, picnic area, playing fields, playground and pavilion.

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Wild-life Management area. Fish: Northern pike, largemouth bass & panfish.

Jeffrey Pond Canoes, 20 acres, on state forest land 3 miles northeast of Norwich. Fish: Brook trout.

Long Pond Small motorboats, canoes, hand launch Town of Smithville, off Rt. 41. 117 acres. Fish: Chain pickerel, large-mouth bass & tiger musky are the main gamefish found in the pond. Black crappie, yellow perch, bluegill and pumpkinseed sunfish can also be found. Popular ice fishing location.

Brookfield State Forest Hubbardsville/Brookfield.

NYS DEC 607.674.4017 * 130 miles of trails spread over 13,000 acres for: cross-country skiing, hiking, horseback riding, and snowmobiling. Facilities: Pavilion, picnic area, handicapped mounting platforms for horseback riding.

Round Pond Canoes, 26 acres on state forest land 1 mile west of Smithville Flats. Fish: Chain pickerel and panfish.

Finger Lakes Trail NYS Finger Lakes Trail Center (Local) 607.334.3872 * Spans NY State. Five trail sections (77.9 miles) run through Chenango County.

Activities such as bird watching, cross country skiing, hiking, and snowshoeing are available. www.

FingerLakesTrail.org Gilbert Lake State Park Laurens, 5 mi. east of

Unadilla River Excellent canoeing, long, deep, slow pools; mostly tree-lined. Hand launch at South New Berlin off Rte. 8 & 23. Fish: Walleyes, chain pickerel, large and smallmouth bass, and panfish.

Fishing is also allowed at most State Parks. Contact the NYS DEC at (607) 674-4036 or visit www.dec.ny.gov for more information. Recreational River Guides are available for a minimal fee at the Commerce Chenango offices at 15 South Broad St., Norwich, NY.

Public access is guaranteed along all or part of the water in the following spots.

New Berlin. 607.334.2114 * 1,569 acres, 38 acre lake, hot showers, nature center, pavilion. Activities: bicycling, boating, cross country skiing, swimming, snowmobiling.

Balsam Pond Small motorboats or canoes. 153 acres, aver-age 9’ depth, warm water fishery. Hand launch at Town of Pharsalia, 2 miles south of the Village. Fish: Norlunge, large-mouth bass, yellow perch, sunfish & chain pickerel.

Hunts Pond State Forest 2 mi. north of South New Berlin. NYS DEC 607.674.4036 * The pond area is open to fishing and car top boat launching. Camping around the perimeter of the pond is available with a free permit from the DEC Sherburne office from May 1 to September 30. Fishing, hiking and cross-country skiing.

photo credit: Chris Snow

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www.visitchenango.com or call 607-334-1400

PRESTON 8

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CAMPING

Bowman Lake State Park 745 Bliven Sherman Rd. (Off Route 220, 8 miles west of Oxford) 197 Sites (607) 334-2718

Chenango Valley State Park (Broome Co.) (607) 648-5251

Gaius Cook Park Campground 189 Park Rd., Chenango Forks 40 Sites (607) 656-8752 www.co.chenango.ny.us

Gilbert Lake State Park 18 CCC Rd., Laurens, (5 Miles East of New Berlin) 254 Sites (607) 432-2114 NYS DEC

Grand Slam Campground (Otsego Co.) 1741 County Hwy 18, So. New Berlin 63 sites (607) 859-2584 www.grandslamcampground.com

Pure Country Campground 176 Kelly Rd., New Berlin 26 Sites (horses welcome!) (607) 847-9265 www.purecountrycampground.com

Riverside RV Campgrounds Route 206 & I 88, Bainbridge 17 Sites (607) 967-2102

Salisbury Chenango Shores Campground 109 Chenango Shores Lane, Chenango Forks 65 Sites (607) 648-9030

Tall Pines Riverfront Campground 2715 County Route 35, Bainbridge 67 Sites (607) 563-8271 www.tallpinescampground-ny.com For more information on campgrounds visit www.visitchenango.com or call 607-334-1400.

Chenango River The Chenango River is a 90-milelong tributary of the Susquehanna River. Walleye, pike, bullhead sunfish, carp and more.

Reservations for New York State Parks can be made by calling 1-800-456-CAMP

Most major cities of the world are situated on rivers.

Historically rivers have been advantageous for travel, borders, a source of hydropower, and of course – being a source of food and water. The city of Cairo, in Egypt is located on the banks of the Nile River, and the annual flooding of that river is essential to the farms of the region for hydrating and fertilizing their crops. Travel on rivers was essential to trade – goods could be more easily transported on water than across land.

WATER INLAND WATERWAYS

MS

RIVERS AND CREEKS

Take off down your local river for excitement and fun! Wind your way through canyons, cruise past majestic trees and shiny green underbrush, bounce and jolt over whitewater rapids while holding on to your raft for dear life – rivers offer a multitude of adventures. With a little bit of luck on your side, you might even get up close and personal with the locals – manatees have been known to approach boaters, and sometimes even dolphins will be spotted in local rivers. Again, however, watch out for alligators!

The most well-known United States river is, of course, the Mississippi. This broad, slow-moving piece of history is vital to the economy of the United States, both past and present. It has also been immortalized in countless works of fiction, most famously in The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain. It symbolizes freedom and escape to Huck and Jim, as it has for so many people in real life. Today you can experience everything the Mississippi has to offer all along the length of it. Kayak or canoe through the backwaters, go birdwatching, go fishing, ride a steamboat… whatever your heart desires, you can find it on the Mississippi.

Old Forge, NY Adirondack Base Camp

Moose River

Old Forge, NY

1 hour North of Utica NY Exit 31 NY State Thruway OldForgeNY.com

Come Discover the Undiscovered in the Pee Dee Region of South Carolina

NAVARRE, FL

VACATION

today is hectic. We spend hours and days planning every minute, from arrival to departure, in an effort to maximize our time only to battle crowds, long lines, and heavy traffic. What if vacation truly felt like vacation? What if relaxation were guaranteed?

Meet Navarre Beach, Florida’s Most Relaxing Place! A small town nestled in Florida’s Panhandle where a vacation truly feels like a vacation. Navarre Beach is a place where the sun shines almost every day; the calm, crystal clear Gulf waters are always picture-perfect, and relaxation is taken seriously.

Experience a fun-filled day of hiking through some of Florida’s most tranquil nature trails, paddle board in the Gulf of Mexico, or tube down Blackwater River with friends and family. You will soon find that there’s no better feeling than truly experiencing nature just before the sun sets, and you’ll wish your out-of-office message could be extended another week or two.

When you’re ready to reel in the best catch of your life, saltwater and freshwater options await. Cast your line at Navarre Beach Fishing Pier, the longest in the Gulf of Mexico, or go at your own pace by kayaking through the freshwater bayous.

Wherever you choose to drop a line, we guarantee you’ll never forget the time you spent navigating these waters.

Challenge your adrenaline by zip-lining at Adventures Unlimited. Soar through the sky to get a birds-eye-view of Florida’s gorgeous terrain.

If relaxing is your goal, spend the day lounging beachside with a great book and cocktail.

Uncrowded, unspoiled, and unlike anywhere else, try “glamping” with the family at Coldwater Gardens. Explore the untamed beauty of nature that Navarre Beach has to offer without sacrificing any of the comforts of home. Lounge around a crackling campfire while sharing stories with your loved ones, creating unforgettable moments. What are you waiting for?

Learn more at GetRelaxing.com! www.getrelaxing.com facebook.com/RelaxInNavarre/ twitter.com/relaxinnavarre instagram.com/relaxinnavarre/

FULL OF ADVENTURE. FULL OF FUN. FULTON COUNTY.

Whether you’re on the water or on the shore, Fulton County is full of adventures for the whole family. ® NYSDED

Discover a whole new world of giving.

Whether you’re passionate about education in Afghanistan or wildlife conservation in Zimbabwe, at GlobalGiving you’ll discover vetted, community-led nonprofits to support and feel great when you get updates about how your money is put to work.

Photo by Sense International

GlobalGiving.org/explore

LIGHTNIN Safety It’s lightning season – keep track of these tips to stay safe and avoid electrocution.

April showers bring May flowers! Springtime is a season of sunshine, but when it rains, it pours – and where there is thunder, there is lightning.

Check out our tips below to stay smart and stay safe during this lightningrich season – one of them might even save your life this year!

NG ϟ No Corded Electronics Although we are firmly in the height of the Cell Phone Age, many homes still contain a landline phone connected to the wall. If there is lightning in the area, it is best to avoid using such a phone – if lightning strikes your home, electricity from the bolt can easily travel through your home’s electrical system and zap anyone unlucky enough to be touching an electronic device connected to an outlet. This includes phone chargers, laptop cables – anything that plugs into the wall is a risk. Stay safe and go wireless during thunderstorms. ϟ Avoid Concrete It might not be obvious, but it’s in your best interest to stay away from concrete walls and floors during a thunderstorm. Concrete conducts electricity and often has metal bars running through it for stability, which makes it even more dangerous. Leaning against a bare concrete wall or lying on a bare concrete floor could increase your risk of electrocution, should lightning strike. If you are in the vicinity of open or exposed concrete when lightning is flying about, keep yourself safe and make sure you don’t touch any of it. Keep your animals away from the concrete as well! ϟNo Tall Objects Sometimes, the worst happens and you find yourself stuck outside during a lightning storm. When looking around in a panic for shelter, it might seem like a great idea to hide underneath a tall tree or cell phone tower. Think again! Lightning tends to strike the highest point, and being anywhere near the area where lightning decides to land is a bad idea. Lots of energy is discharged when lightning strikes, and if you’re too close to the strike point you run the risk of getting hit by a “side flash” – a portion of the current jumping to you. Stay safe, and stay indoors.

Stay alert and aware this spring, and if you hear thunder – head indoors.

Fishing Coastal Fishing vs. Inland Fishing.

Inland Fishing

Heading inland has its distinct advantages. Being away from the harsh winds of the sea means that inland waters are smoother and less choppy – you can fish from a rowboat or a dock, if you are so inclined.

Freshwater fish include bluegills, carp, catfish, and trout, so if they are what your heart desires head to your nearest lake or river. Inland fishing locations tend to be more accessible, as well – you don’t have to drive for hours to reach an ocean, you can drive for twenty minutes and find yourself at your local lake. If you’re lucky enough to live on the water, it could be as simple as walking down to the end of your dock.

If you want a fun lake fishing adventure, make sure to check out Lake St. Clair in Michigan. During the summer, go adventuring for walleye, perch, crappie, or smallmouth bass. Bring your family along as well!

There are so many places to swim and play in the water, as well as boating fun. Enjoy the beaches, enjoy the fishing, enjoy time with your family.

Adventure Outdoors | Fall 2018 | 85

ST. LAWRENCE COUNTY, NY

BASS FISHING

in the Nation on the St. Lawrence River

On New York’s northern border, the St. Lawrence River flows from Lake Ontario to the Atlantic Ocean, creating a recreational common place as the border between the US and Canada. The 700 mile river is the largest east-west river in North America, and has earned fame as the top Bass Fishery in the nation by Bassmaster, and hosts several professional tournaments annually. The diversity in experience ranges from narrow, current stretches, to wide, lake-like expanses with prime fish holding structures along the entire river, making this a unique and exciting fishery for any angler. Famous for smallmouth and largemouth bass, as well as the northern pike and muskellunge which entice year round fishing.

Ninety miles of the St. Lawrence River is St. Lawrence County, a destination for generations as well as elite tournaments hosted by Bassmaster, Major League Fishing and Fishing League Worldwide. Coveted as a feature along tournament circuits, and home to family derby’s and amateur competitions, anglers enjoy navigating the different features of the river and changing conditions from year to year based on the season flow. Pro Angler, Hank Cherry glorified the river in a 2019 Bassmaster interview noting that ‘No matter where I’ve gone or where I’ve fished, I’ve never been anywhere that compares to the St. Lawrence River out of Waddington, N.Y….

When you wet a line up there you never know what you’re going to catch.

I’ve been there three or four times and I’ve caught perch, walleye, musky, rock bass, pike and carp. They’re all healthy and big within their species.

It’s incredible. It’s just plain fun to fish that river.’

Campgrounds along the St. Lawrence River provide a great waterfront home base for a week of great fishing, with wineries, craft beer, and family friendly centers and parks lining the region from the River to the Adirondack Mountains. The County includes four other major rivers, the Grasse, Raquette, St. Regis and Oswegatchie featured other species and experiences.

Among the 200 lakes, rivers and streams in the County, Black Lake has been named as the Country’s top warm water lake and top ten bass waters in the Country. The lake covers over 8,000 acres for nearly 20 miles, with 60 miles of shoreline. A mixture of marsh, woodland, farmland, and cottage development characterize the shoreline with fish-holding habitats like weedy bays, weed lines, shoals, islands, dropoffs, rock piles, channels, tributaries, and neckeddown areas.

Learn about the ‘Great 8 Challenge’ and explore our new interactive trail map.

STLCtrails.com

Discover Trails On New York’s Northern Border!

Family friendly, easy access hikes and walks.

For more information: VisitSTLC.com

| 1-877-228-7810

NYSDED

®

The pan fish marathon runs from June through October on the lake, with tagged fish equating to over $80,000 in cash and prizes.

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Planning a visit based on species is made easy by the fish finder on www.Fishcap.net, complete with a schedule of tournaments to help chose the best time to visit. The area is rich in culture and other recreation, including short and accessible hikes to waterfalls that can be enjoyed by toddlers and grandparents. A new challenge patch series will make this even more fun for the family. An interactive trail site ensures you don’t get lost and can find businesses to stay, eat and shop. The destination is full of four season activities for all interests, with full information at www.VisitSTLC.com

Adventure Outdoors | Spring 2020 | 87

The still, enclosed waters of a lake don’t carry the same risks as the open ocean, but caution is still key! Stay aware of your surroundings, avoid local wildlife, and make sure you have life vests and other safety precautions before you go on your fishing adventure.

Or perhaps your heart belongs on the open ocean, salt spray on the breeze, a baited line cast into the deep. Fishing off the coast offers you the option of getting out to deeper waters to catch bigger quarries – even possibly sailfish or sharks. If you want to catch tuna, halibut, yellowtail, or tarpon, then you need to be at sea. You can also use a wider variety of baits on the ocean – fish parts, whole crabs, and even chumming the waters. Whether you’re kneedeep at high tide or twelve miles out on a large fishing boat, you’ll get the catch of a lifetime at the coast.

Perhaps your heart belongs on

coastal

Coastal Fishing

the open ocean, salt spray on the breeze, a baited line cast into the deep.

There are so many boating options available for ocean fishing. You can strike out on your own and explore the ocean for yourself, or you can charter a boat to take you to the best fishing spots. Chartered fishing adventures will often provide you with specialized equipment you might be lacking – sturdier fishing line, quality chum, and other such things.

THE MOST EXCITING FISHERY IN THE WEST OWYHEE RIVER IN MALHEUR COUNTY OREGON

866-989-8012

Visit: www.ontariochamber.com

Perch

Bluegill

Walleye

Tuna

You get more of an opportunity to relax and enjoy the experience, but some people prefer to handle everything themselves.

You get more of an opportunity to relax and enjoy the experience, but some people prefer to handle everything themselves. In that case, you can rent a boat for the day and go out on your own. But be careful! If you go out on your own, make sure you tell someone your plans for the day and when you expect to be back.

The ocean is dangerous, so stay in contact with the shore and have a backup plan for emergencies.

Whatever kind of fishing you choose, you’re always going to make the right choice – inland and coastal fishing both have their lures, and a day spent with your line in the water is never a day wasted.

Eat.

Stay.

Discover.

 Thousand Hills State Park  Conservation Areas - 12,000+ acres  Fishing - Bass, Muskie, Trout, Crappy  April 20 Spring Turkey Season Opens  Sept 15 Archery Deer Season Opens  Horse Trails  Camping / Backpacking / Hiking  Oct 17 FLATS Trail 1/2 Marathon  Biking - Trail or Gravel There’s  Historical Museums Go to  Cultural Exhibits

Enjoy.

more to explore!

Check out the Events Calendar

it takes

PASSION to make a difference.

Your support in a child's life can bring them to new heights and create opportunities.

For more information visit feedthechildren.org.

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FOR

ALL THE MOMENTS WE STAND UP

CANDICE PATTON Stand Up To Cancer Ambassador

Since 2008, Major League Baseball® has supported Stand Up To Cancer in its mission to fund groundbreaking research and get treatments to patients faster than ever before.

Join us as we stand united to show our support for loved ones affected by cancer.

Visit StandUpToCancer.org/MLB

Stand Up To Cancer is a division of the Entertainment Industry Foundation (EIF), a 501(c)(3) charitable organization.

Major League Baseball trademarks and copyrights are used with permission of Major League Baseball. Visit MLB.com

Photo By ANDREW ECCLES

CARBON COUNTY, WY

Come discover the Western Frontier &

Get Your West On.

Whether you are here to explore Carbon County’s rich history full of colorful characters and infamous outlaws, crystal clear rivers, natural hot springs, mountain trails for hiking or biking, forests teeming with wildlife, pristine alpine lakes, small town western culture, local events and museums - we're glad you've decide to come explore Carbon County.

Whether you’re ATVing, cycling, climbing, hiking, horseback riding, nordic skiing, snowmobiling, snowshoeing or taking a drive along our scenic byways, we are sure you will appreciate the serene mountains, fertile river valleys, and the exotic high desert -

94 | Spring 2020 | Adventure Outdoors

you’ll understand why everyone who has discovered Carbon County as their personal getaway agrees that it is Wyoming’s best kept secret.

RECREATION IN SOUTHERN WYOMING IS UNPARALLELED Our wide-open spaces coupled with low population makes for some of the best recreational opportunities to be found. If you love the great outdoors, Carbon County is the place to be.

RELAXING ESCAPE Carbon County’s vast, open spaces are ripe for wildlife viewing. Look for moose, deer, sheep, elk and raptors at Saratoga Lake, Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest and Seminoe State Park. All three destinations are also prime for fishing, hiking and camping.

Don’t miss a stop at the famous Hobo Hot Springs in Saratoga, whose thermal waters are believed by some to have healing powers. Give it a try for yourself – it’s free and open 24/7. The natural beauty here is truly staggering, so reserve an afternoon (or two) to take a scenic drive along the Seminoe-Alcova Scenic Backway, Snowy Range Scenic Byway and the Battle Pass Scenic Byway.

GETTING THERE Carbon County is located in Southern Wyoming. Visitors can y from international destinations to Casper-Natrona County International Airport (C/NCIA) and take the scenic two-hour drive south to Carbon County. International airports in Denver, Colorado (DEN) and Salt Lake City, Utah (SLC) are also within a three- to four-hour drive from Carbon County.

ALBANY COUNTY, WY

Fly Fishing in Wyoming – Fish, Eat, Sleep, Repeat

Worm, lure or fly — Albany County’s rivers, lakes and ponds are brimming with excitement for anglers of all abilities. Trout are a local favorite and the Big and Little Laramie Rivers are abundant with Cutthroat, Rainbow, Brown and Brookies. Stop in at one of Laramie’s bait shops or fly fishing stores to schedule a float down the North Platte River, Laramie River, Little Laramie River, Lakes in the Medicine Bow National Forest and the Laramie Plains Lakes.

The Jelm Access Jelm is located just south of Highway 230, past Woods Landing on State Highway 10, 30 miles west of Laramie.

Varied topography, including a small canyon, provides a wider range of fishing than the pasture land closer to town. Pocket water, undercut banks and abundant riffles characterize this section. Fishing is best from midMay through early July and again in the fall.

Many locals consider this the most beautiful public stretch of the Big Laramie River.

Medicine Bow National Forest West of Laramie, Highway 130, also known as the Snowy Range Road, travels through Medicine Bow National Forest for 30 miles. This scenic drive passes countless alpine lakes and streams before crossing 10,847 ft.

Snowy Range Pass, descending into the small town of Saratoga and meeting Interstate-80 at Walcott Junction.

Twin Lakes, North and South Gap, Bear Lake, the Shelf Lakes, Libby Lake and Lewis Lake are all popular destinations for the serious angler.

Rob Roy Reservoir, Lake Owen, and Turpin Reservoir have cement boat ramps and allow boats with combustion motors.

A short walk from the main highway will also reveal hidden gems.

Longer walks transport the visitor to fishing nirvana; as with life, the more you put into your experience the more you get out of it. Pack a lunch and plan to spend the whole day discovering your own favorite fishing hole.

FISH•EAT•SLEEP•repeat

Fly fishing in WYoming

Request a Fishing Guide today. download our app when you visit

visitlaramie.org • 307-745-4195

EST. 1868

The alkaline Laramie Plains Lakes are known for abundant fish food and howling wind. These fertile waters support scud, caddis, damselflies, dragonflies, callibaetis and chironomids, which in turn support enormous healthy trout. Fish are most abundant from early spring, right after ice out, through mid-summer, and again in the fall.

Spring and fall are the windiest seasons on the Laramie Plains, but the wind can blow any day of the year. Sometimes the worst weather provides the best fishing, so be ready to gear up and step into adventure.

Bring a 7-weight rod to help combat the powerful winds and be prepared to come home with exciting tales of battling the elements and the fish!

Request a Laramie Fishing Guide here... https://visitlaramie.org/activity/fishing

HARDIN COUNTY, TN

Hardin County is home to several fishing competitions throughout the year including the “granddaddy” of all– the National Catfish Derby, now its 78th year; Country Artist and hometown boy Darryl Worley’s Tennessee River Run Bass Tournament and several regional and state high school championships.

CATFISH TO CANNONBALLS! WEST TENNESSEE’S HARDIN COUNTY HAS IT ALL! From the inviting waters of the Tennessee River to the peaceful woodlands and historic sites that dot the region, Hardin County, Tennessee offers something to explore around every corner!

Visit the rivertown of Savannah’s Historic District, hear the civil war cannons boom in Shiloh National Military Park, or catch record-breaking catfish in the rich waters of Pickwick Lake - all in Hardin County, Tennessee. Whether you’re just stopping by or coming to stay, we can’t wait to meet you!

Savannah is more than just the seat of Hardin County, it’s also the Catfish Capital of the World! Famous for its incredible fishing opportunities, the local waters of the Tennessee River offer plenty of large catfish as well as bass.

While fishing is excellent year-round, the best fishing can be had in the spring and fall each year. Visit the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency and Tennessee State Parks online for detailed information about local fishing.

South of Savannah where Tennessee, Mississippi and Alabama meet is Pickwick Lake. With almost 500 miles of shoreline and over 43,000 acres of water, Pickwick Lake provides ample opportunity for excellent fishing year-round! Because Pickwick Lake is bordered by three states, a reciprocal agreement applies to anyone with a valid Sport Fishing License in any one of the bordering states.

Pickwick is also home to Pickwick Landing State Resort Park. Lovers of the outdoors will find unlimited opportunities for fun and adventure in Pickwick, with three public swimming beaches, two campgrounds, an 18hole Tennessee Golf Trail golf course, disc golf course, aviary, and walking trails perfect for hikers of all skill levels.

Find us on the Tennessee River and Pickwick Lake

FISHING STORIES TOLD HERE!

The outdoor fun continues at nearby Shiloh National Military Park, said to be the most wellpreserved battlefield in the nation. Start your trip at the park’s visitor center, which displays an impressive collection of Civil War era relics and narratives. Then, enjoy a 13-mile self-guided tour around the park’s 5,000+ acres complete with over 150 monuments, 200 cannons, and 650 historic tablets. The park is also home to other treasures worth visiting, a nesting pair of bald eagles, families of deer, turkey and the remains of a riverside community of Mississippi Mound Builders platform mounds.

From adventures in the outdoors to exploring downtowns, to catfish to cannonballs, Hardin County, Tennessee has it all. Spend the night in the park’s lodge or one of the cabins and enjoy lakefront views from your private balcony, access to the lodge’s swimming pools, and a delicious meal at the in-house restaurant.

OSWEGO COUNTY, NY

oswego county new

york

PHOTO BY JERRY MAHER

Each year, thousands of anglers flock to Oswego County, NY for incredible and diverse fishing experiences. Whether it’s trolling for salmon on Great Lake Ontario or swinging flies for steelhead on the legendary Salmon River, visitors are sure to leave Oswego County with memories of beautiful scenery and a world-class fishing experience.

Each year

thousands of anglers flock flock to Oswego County, NY for incredible and diverse fishing experiences.

Located on Lake Ontario’s southeastern shore, Oswego County offers excellent fishing throughout the entire year. With more than 50 licensed charter captains operating out of marinas in Oswego, Mexico Point and Port Ontario, there is no shortage of opportunity. Visitors of all ages can enjoy a half or full-day charter trip targeting a variety of different species.

In spring, anglers and charter captains move into shallower depths closer to shore to target brown trout. Trolling is the main method to catch browns during springtime, and anglers have the chance to fight and land trophy size fish! In fact, the NYS record brown trout – at 33 pounds, 2 ounces – was landed near Oswego.

As summer approaches, anglers shift their focus to salmon. Lake Ontario holds healthy populations of both Chinook and Coho salmon, as well as brown trout, lake trout, rainbow trout and the elusive Atlantic salmon. Anglers head out to deeper depths and are often rewarded with beautiful fish, sometimes over 40 pounds! Given the various species available, it would be unusual for anglers to not reach their limit on most days.

A variety of trolling methods are used to catch salmon during the summer, including downriggers, planer boards and wire lines. These techniques are extremely precise. Anglers and captains take the wind, depth, weather, location and many other factors into consideration when trolling.

The excitement of a downrigger releasing and the reel screaming as a salmon fights with every ounce of its body is second to none. Trips often start in the dark at the dock to make sure lines are in the water as the sun rises. There is a collective anxiousness in the boat as everyone awaits the first bite. When it comes, the anxiousness is replaced with adrenaline, excitement, laughs, smiles and, of course, fish!

As the summer begins to wind down and temperatures drop, the action is just starting to heat up on the famous Salmon River in northern Oswego County.

Each year the Salmon and Oswego rivers host a migration of thousands of Chinook and Coho salmon who make the journey back to their spawning grounds. Soon after, the highly sought-after steelhead follow the salmon, feeding on their eggs and other aquatic insects.

The Salmon River also provides a unique opportunity for anglers to have a chance at an Atlantic salmon. Although rare in many places, Atlantics are more common in this sportfishing mecca.

Fly fishing, centerpin fishing, and spin fishing are the most common methods of targeting salmon and steelhead on the river. Anglers can also drift the river with licensed guides at multiple boat launches. There are numerous public access spots along the river, as well as private access including the popular Douglaston Salmon Run. The salmon run occurs from mid-September through October, while the steelhead fishing picks up in late October, running until April.

Oswego County has no shortage of trophy bass fishing between Lake Ontario and Oneida Lake. Anglers can also pursue walleye, perch, pickerel and other species across the county. Smaller Lake Ontario tributaries produce additional opportunities for steelhead, brown trout and salmon.

Visit Oswego County for your next fishing adventure and be sure to leave with an exciting experience and countless memories!

For current fishing reports and visitor information go to visitoswegocounty.com or call 1-800-248-4FUN.

COLDWATER COUNTRY, MI

Michigan’s coldwater country is a great catch With more than 100 lakes, including two chains of lakes, Coldwater Country offers countless opportunities for novice to expert anglers and everyone in between to reel in the catch of the day. Spend a day, weekend, or more fishing the lakes of Coldwater Country and find out why Coldwater Country sells more fishing licenses than any other area of the state.

102 | Spring 2020 | Adventure Outdoors

One of the unique experiences in the area is the ability to get out on the water and travel from one lake to another through the chain of lakes. Coldwater Country is home to not only one chain of lakes but two - North Chain of Lakes and South Chain of Lakes.

The North Chain of Lakes, also known as the Randall Chain of Lakes, is a series of seven lakes including Messenger, South, Cemetery, North, Randall, Morrison and Craig lakes. Located in near the city of Coldwater, in central Branch County, the North Chain of Lakes collectively covers approximately 1,100 acres. This chain of

lakes is largely known for bluegill, crappie and largemouth bass with some pan fish as well.

The South Chain of Lakes, also known as the Marble or Coldwater Chain of Lakes, runs parallel to I-69 south of the US-12 Heritage Route and includes eight lakes - First Lake, Marble Lake, Middle Lake, Archer Laker, Bartholomew Lake, Mud Lake, Long Lake, and Coldwater Lake. With 16 boatable miles of lakes it covers more than 3,500 acres of widely varying habitat and environments. Largemouth bass are abundant in this chain as well.

For the best action, a boat is recommended. Boats, canoes, and kayaks are available for rent locally.

Try your hand at shore fishing at Coldwater Country’s Marble Lake for the best catch of bluegills and largemouth bass.

Need an incentive to drop a line in Coldwater Country? Try it as part of the Free Fishing Weekend, June

13-14, 2020. This annual weekend provides two days where no fishing license is required for residents or non-residents, although all fishing regulations still apply.

After a day on the lake, enjoy some down time followed by a mouth-watering meal at one of Coldwater Country’s locally owned diners, restaurants, or pubs.

Whether looking for a quick bite to

eat, a unique dining destination or a gourmet dinner, visitors will find it in Coldwater Country.

So, whether you’re looking for a summer fishing getaway, a relaxing fall fishing weekend with friends, or an ice fishing adventure Coldwater Country has you covered. For additional information visit ColdwaterCountry.com or call (517) 278-0241.

Hunting TURKEY

AC R O S S T H E N AT I O N Here at Adventure Outdoors, we know turkeys aren’t just for Thanksgiving. These native birds make for fine hunting across the United States. They provide a challenge – their eyesight is very sharp and can detect even small movements, and they are smart enough to avoid pursuers.

Read on to learn about these deceptively illustrious birds and the tricks of bagging them all year round. You can find wild turkeys in 49 of the 50 US states – the only place they don’t live is Alaska. Even Hawaii has a wild turkey hunting season! There are five subspecies of wild turkey, so what you bag will depend on where you hunt. East of the Mississippi? Most likely you will find yourself an appropriately named Eastern turkey. In the mountains of the West? Merriam’s turkeys will be your prey. Florida has a subspecies of turkey all its own – the Osceola turkey, the hardest species to call into range.

The best way to hunt a turkey is to get it to come to you – they’re so sensitive to movement, they’ll notice you tracking them and scamper off. To bring them within shooting range, many hunters use a turkey call. Turkeys make up to thirty distinct sounds, and hunters use calls to imitate the most common sounds to pique the animal’s interest. A variation of gobbles, clucks and yelps are used to imitate the sound of a hen – a female turkey – and bring the larger male gobblers into range.

Once the right turkey is in your range, it’s time to take it down. If you’re using a shotgun, you may want to consider using a turkey choke to keep the shot pattern where you want it. Use the right ammunition as well – turkey loads will make sure you take the bird down the right way. If you use a bow, practice drawing your bow while seated on the ground – it can take some maneuvering, so get used to it before the moment really matters.

Before you go, make sure your hunt falls in the right season! Each state has its own parameters for turkey hunting season, so do your research on seasons and bag limits to avoid running a-fowl of the law.

g

“

THE BEST WAY TO HUNT A TURKEY

is to get it to come to you – they’re so sensitive to movement, they’ll notice you tracking them and scamper off.”

OFFBEAT EXCURSIONS

TRAVEL excursions

&

For some, an adventure isn’t complete without doing something no one else can say they have.

The unusual and the offbeat ourish here in America, and we have many opportunities to venture off the beaten track and try something completely new. Read on and see what sort of fun sparks your curiosity!

Explore Dude Ranches Indulge your Old West fantasies by making time to stay on a dude ranch. Try your hand at navigating a trail on horseback, practice your archery skills, roar through the mud on an ATV, and so much more. You could even get a chance to drive cattle across the range cowboy-style. These ranches are allinclusive and include activities for everyone, from the wildest kids to the fanciest ladies in your family. Your wife can indulge in a massage while you go on a hike and your children visit the petting zoo and swimming pool, and you can all meet up later for some delectable farm-to-table cuisine.

COVER STORY “Offbeat Excursions.” Explore the unusual and make one of these unique adventures the focus of your next trip.

Get Up Close with Wildlife This year, bring a once-in-a-lifetime flair to your vacation by adding a wild animal encounter to your itinerary. In Florida you can swim with manatees, the sweetest of the sea creatures, the ones sailors used to mistake for mermaids. There is an elephant retreat in Indiana that lets you give the gentle giants a bath and even a pedicure. If you find yourself in Oregon you could tour the local alpaca ranch, or spend a night with sloths. Whatever your favorite animal is, chances are there is a place in this country where you can meet them in person.

Such Great Heights Test your nerves this year and make your way to the tops of the tallest buildings around. Soar 1,353 into the air above Chicago at the Willis Tower – you can step out onto The Ledge, an all-glass viewing platform. Make your way into Toronto, Canada to do a hands-free walk around the edge of the CN Tower – no railings, no walls, just you and a safety harness a thousand feet in the air. In New York City, you can climb 146 steps to reach the majestic crown of the Statue of Liberty, gazing out from above her impassive copper face.

No matter what strikes your fancy, you’ll be able to find something strange and unusual to bring you joy on your next trip.

WASHINGTON COUNTY, NY

TO EXPLORE MEANS TO It’s not repeating what you’ve done in the past and embracing something new. It’s going beyond Interstate highways and corporate hotels and venturing into places that are off the beaten path, relatively unknown, and naturally untouched. Introducing Washington County in Upstate NY. Washington County is full of crossroads. It’s where the mid-Atlantic meets New England. It’s where the Adirondack Mountains meet the bustling activity of artisan farmlands.

It’s where the breathtaking scenes of Lake George’s undeveloped east shore turn into museums, theaters, and restaurants that bend the past, present, and future. Washington County quietly features parts of history you didn’t know exist, from the Revolutionary War site of Battle Hill to

STEP OUTSIDE

the childhood home of Susan B. Anthony to Whitehall Armory, recognized as the birthplace of the Navy.

One of the most memorable parts of any Washington County adventure is not only what you see, but how you explore it. Your car or motorcycle will likely enter our region via one of our panoramic roads that link up with scenic drives, such as the historic military sites on the Mohegan Trail or the spectacular mountain scenery of the Central Adirondack Trail. That’s just the beginning of a Washington County adventure: Hike with the entire family Black Mountain, our most popular hiking option, is a 2.5-mile trail perfect for novice adventurers. Another family-friendly trail is Pilot

THE FAMILIAR.

Knob Preserve, which can be completed in about 45 minutes. Buck Mountain is a 3.3-mile, dog-friendly trail that offers an almost 360-degree view of Lake George.

Bike among the best Washington County’s bicycle routes feature both suburban and rural scenery, while always highlighting the beauty of Upstate New York. While summer is always a popular time for family-friendly biking, you’ll also want to venture back in the autumn. Our bike trails offer one of the best ways to view the full spectrum of New York’s classic fall foliage. Advanced bikers will want to check out the Tour of the Battenkill. Held every spring, it’s the largest pro-amateur bicycle road race in North America.

Make a splash Water has always been one of Washington County’s signature attractions. No matter what level of difficulty you’re seeking, swimming, boating, canoeing, and kayaking can all be enjoyed on Eastern New York’s vast network of lakes, rivers, canals, and ponds. There’s nothing quite

like taking in the view of the Adirondacks from the center of Lake George -- the 32-mile long “Queen of American Lakes” -- or the enjoyment of floating under a covered bridge on the Battenkill. The fun doesn’t stop at the end of summer. Each winter Washington County converts into one of the best kept secrets

for snowmobilers, as well crosscountry and alpine skiers.

If you’re ready to go beyond the predictable day trip, weekend getaway, or outdoor vacation, visit www.washingtoncounty.fun to explore Washington County’s four seasons of family-friendly destinations and activities.

HALIBURTON, CA

Finding the best

Canadian

adventure

The quantity, quality & diversification of adventure experiences ready to be discovered within the 1,554 square miles of rugged landscapes, vistas, forests, hills and lakes known as the Haliburton Highlands are simply not offered anywhere else in Ontario – and perhaps Canada.

The Haliburton Highlands is bordered by the world-famous Algonquin Provincial Park, and includes the award-winning, world-renowned, Haliburton Forest & Wildlife Reserve. “The Forest” includes 100,000 acres of sustainably managed forest, with 180+ miles of trails for hiking and seasonal campsites. It’s the home of Canada’s first tree-top Canopy Tour and an illustrious, interpretive Wolf Centre. Come howl with the wolves!

Take part in one of Algonquin Outfitters kayaking schools. Paddling on one of Ontario’s premier White Water Courses, AO defines White Water adventure! Arrange a custom Algonquin Park canoe trip or other paddling opportunity.

At Sir Sam’s Ski & Ride, feel the thrill of cross-country biking and the speed of down hill mountain biking on some of the best trails in Ontario chosen each year to host a number of provincial

110 | Spring 2020 | Adventure Outdoors

competitions. Up for the challenge?

Get muddy ATV’ing on extreme mud trails or get soaked making waves jet skiing with Back Country Tours. Design a self-guided tour!

For a non-motorized adventure, horseback riding into a remote part of Algonquin Park with world-class equestrians at South Algonquin Trails can be as gentle or as exhilarating as one chooses!

Spirit of the Waterfalls is a series of five guided Shamanic Journeys. While hiking through lush forest to mesmerizing waterfalls - sing, drum and meditate! Experience the adventure of deepening one’s connection with Nature through the gateway of Water.

Algonquin Highlands Trails offers countless opportunities to canoe, camp, hike and fish on extraordinary land and water trails within 28,000 hectares of protected lands.

come experience

Wilderness

Come, enjoy the pristine wilderness abundant throughout the Haliburton Highlands. Check out the quaint communities sprinkled throughout the area for festivals, events, arts, culture, heritage and foodie experiences during your stay.

Located between the dynamic metropolis of Toronto, Ontario and the world-renowned Algonquin Park, come experience the Haliburton Highlands.

MyHaliburtonHighlands.com

Haliburton

HIGHLANDS

Enter the exciting world of “Hydroflight” using Flyboard and Jetovator with Ski-Mazing Watersports!

What’s it like to fly up into the air from a speeding boat, suspended high in the sky from a parasail, feeling total freedom – all while

soaring over a beautiful lake in the Highlands? Skills meet Thrills!

Culinary Experiences. Take home a sense of what it is like to be “a local.”

Award-winning Yours Outdoors inspires with its 60+ authentic, awesome, truly Canadian adventures themed around Nature, Outdoor, Cultural, Artistic and

Adventure is the landscape of the Haliburton Highlands, we are authentically Canadian. Check out adventurehaliburton.com/ for more!

ANGEL FIRE, NM

All Over Adventure Nestled in the Moreno Valley at almost 8500 feet above sea level, Angel Fire is an ideal location for adventurers and families looking for outstanding summer activities in a place where you can just be yourself. Angel Fire offers something for everyone who enjoys the outdoors. This summer, enjoy adventures above, down, and in the valley.

Above the valley, Angel Fire is home to one of the most inspiring balloon festivals in the United States. Over 40 balloons ascend in the morning and float high above the Moreno Valley and the mountain peaks.

Take pictures, enjoy the laid-back Angel Fire atmosphere, and meet people who come from across the country for this remarkable event. A great Father’s Day Weekend getaway (June 19-20, 2020), our balloon operators are relaxed, fun, and eager to share what they do.

If you want to race down the Moreno Valley, check out Angel Fire’s mountain bike park which was voted best in the Southwest by MTBparks,com for five years in a row. Served by the chairlift at

the Angel Fire Resort, climb over 2,000 vertical feet and race down over 60 miles of purpose-built terrain. If you’re an experienced mountain biker you can gear up and scream down an advanced trail like Pinball. Beginners can try out Easy Street for a chance to build some skills and have fun. Lessons, guided tours, and rentals are available.

In the Moreno Valley, the golf season begins in May and runs through the summer. At 8,400 feet above sea level,

morning tee times are cool and bright and the average high in July is 78 degrees.The clubhouse is fully staffed and offers a wide array of amenities and lessons are available. Surrounded by mountain peaks, you can golf along canyons, between towering pines, and among the aspen forests. Golf at Angel Fire is like everything else in this beautiful valley: it’s a place of spectacular beauty for people who love and appreciate the outdoors.

create your own ANGEL FIRE

ADVENTURE

AngelFireFun.com

866.668.7787

Skiing/Boarding | Biking | Hiking | Fishing/Hunting | Golfing | Ballooning | Ziplining

People return to Angel Fire year after year for many reasons. They often cite the beautiful mountains and the fresh air. The biggest reason visitors return again and again, however, is the people. Angel Fire is an adventurer’s delight for outdoor enthusiasts who don’t take themselves too seriously, for families who want a break from hectic cities and summer heat, and for anyone who wants to enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of a fantastic community.

FARMINGTON, NM

Well known as an outdoor lover’s paradise, Farmington, New Mexico is set in the scenic Four Corners area and is the perfect destination for exploring nature and taking in beautiful Northern New Mexico this Spring. A number of adventures await for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Get Dusty Farmington’s recreation areas feature a wide variety of terrain for off-roading adventures, and the area has received national attention as the annual home to the World Extreme Rock Crawling Grand Nationals Championship, the anchor event to Four Corners 4 x 4 Week. This year’s event takes place September 9th through 13th. Farmington’s trails include sandy arroyos, large sand dunes, world-class sandstone rock crawling, desert technical trails, steep hills and challenging slick rock for use in OHVs, ATVs, mountain bikes, motorcycles and more.

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Get Cultured Explore an area steeped in culture and history. Offering both self-guided and guided tours, Farmington’s rich history is showcased with a variety of historical sites, including the Salmon Ruins and Heritage Park, Aztec Ruins National Monument, the Dinétah Rock Art & Pueblitos and Chaco Culture National Historical Park. Continue exploring the cultures of the area in Historic Downtown Farmington as you visit art galleries, trading posts and the new Museum of Navajo Art & Culture.

Get Wild For an otherworldly experience explore the Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness. One of the most astonishing landscapes in the United States, this area boasts striking hoodoos and a variety of other unique rock formations in what was once a coastal swamp of an inland sea.

Visit FarmingtonNM.org today and awaken your thirst for adventure.

Jolt Your Journey

Get Splashed Fish five lakes—all in one destination. Explore the waters of Lake Farmington, Navajo Lake, Jackson Lake, Cutter Reservoir, and Morgan Lake. Then, raft or kayak the Animas River White Water Park or paddle board at Lake Farmington. You can also enjoy a fly fishing adventure along the famous San Juan River Quality Waters.

Request a free vacation guide and start planning your adventure at FarmingtonNM.org.

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LEWIS COUNTY, NY

YOUR ADVENTURES TO LEWIS COUNTY

the Adirondacks and Tug Hill Region, are sure to be fun-filled and memorable. As you are planning where to go, here are some suggestions of things you don't want to miss!

IF YOU ARE A HISTORY BUFF Plan a visit to the International Maple Museum Centre in Croghan to experience the history and techniques used

to produce maple syrup. The museum has three floors of displays, including a replica sugar house and early syrup making techniques and equipment. Another stop should be Constable Hall, located in Constableville where you can escape into the 1800s. This mansion is said to be the inspiration for the story "Twas the Night Before Christmas" and contains memories from seven generations of the Constable Family.

IF YOU LOVE NATURE The hiking trails along the gorge at Whetstone Gulf State Park will provide you with a day filled with adventure.

The Otter Creek Horse Trail System provides 65 miles of trails stretching throughout the Adirondack Park. There are 75 stalls and free camping. Each year events like the Adirondack Race and Riverfest will have you returning again and again.

Besides our traditional offerings we can also boast innovative products that everyone will enjoy like goat's milk gelato from Hidden Pastures Dairy or artisan butter from Black River Valley Natural. Visit during Maple Weekend or visit a local Farmer's Market to meet with some of the people who have helped build Lewis County into the agricultural center that it is today.

IF YOU ARE AN AGRITOURIST There are few places as rich in agriculture as Lewis County, from the fresh dairy production to the sweet maple nectar boiled to amber perfection. Agriculture has always been an important part of Lewis County and sharing the farming way of life with visitors is a longstanding tradition. Watch cows, horses or goats graze in the pasture or take a farm tour and capture some great photos.

IF YOU SEEK ADVENTURE Each year there are ďŹ ve weekends of water releases on the Beaver River to provide stage 5 white water kayaking. The rest of the year you can visit the Moose River in Lyons Falls for stage 4-5 kayak-

ing. There are also approximately 500 miles of ATV and snowmobile trails waiting to be explored.

SNIRT Run and the Flat Rock Watercross are events that are sure to keep you coming back for more.

There are many other events and attractions available throughout the year including the Annual Cream Cheese Festival where you can taste an award winning cheesecake large enough to feed 10,000 people! For more exciting things to do and see in Lewis County visit adirondackstughill.com or call the local Chamber of Commerce at (315) 3762213.

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DUDE RANCHERS ASSOCIATION

THE BEST DESTINATION FOR AN ALL-INCLUSIVE VACATION Have you ever wondered what it would be like to take a vacation where no detailed planning was involved? You definitely need to consider an all-inclusive vacation to a dude ranch! Meals, lodging and most activities are all included in one price and make scheduling a vacation for any type of traveler a breeze. If you are having a hard time choosing between all of the options, contact the experts at the Dude Ranchers’ Association (DRA) by visiting www.duderanch.org to see their 95+ member ranches!

The dude ranch industry has been around for over 100 years, and even years ago the founders thought it would be a great idea for the experiences they offered to be simple to plan and the best package deal available. Dude ranches that are members of the DRA still primarily operate on an all-inclusive type structure. Meals, lodging and most activities are included in one price for each person attending the ranch.

What to eat?

The meals are planned and prepared each day by top notch chefs who create dishes that are perfect for any taste pallet or picky eater. Several ranches operate farm-to-table food programs and offer the freshest ingredients around!

At some ranches you might find outdoor areas for meals, and if you have never had a meal cooked over an open fire, you don’t know what you’re missing!

Where to sleep?

Lodging accommodations differ at each ranch but they all have the same comfy feeling when you walk in the door.

Some ranches have a more rustic and western chic decor and some have an adobe design and structure. DRA dude ranches offer lodge rooms or private cabins for their guests, a few ranches even offer glamping tents and wagons!

What to do?

Dude ranches are centered around outdoor activities and encourage their guests to unplug from their everyday life and reconnect with nature and the outdoors. Horseback riding is the main focus of each ranch, but to participate in this activity you do not have to have previous experience.

Beginners to advanced, you will have the chance to see some incredible landscapes and scenery while riding and you will get to enjoy being outdoors. Activities you might find at a dude ranch include: fly fishing, ATV/UTV riding, kid’s programs, rock climbing, river rafting, hiking, zip-lining and mountain biking.

There are some amenities at ranches that do cost extra and travel expenses are not included in the all-inclusive getaway prices. To find your perfect dude ranch outdoor adventure start planning with the Dude Ranchers’ Association!

ELIZABETHTON & CARTER COUNTY, TN

A WEEKEND ADVENTUMORUENTIANIN

TENNESSEE’S PLAYGROUND

Tucked into the mountains of Northeast Tennessee, Carter County is Tennessee’s Mountain Playground. With beautiful Watauga Lake, the Watauga and Doe rivers, and stunning mountain vistas you’ll see why it’s perfect for a weekend getaway. Below you’ll find just a taste of what Carter County has to offer, visit www.tourcartercounty.com to learn more.

Roan Mountain State Park is a great place to start your adventure. With tent and RV camping as well as cabins for rent it makes a perfect base camp exploring the mountains. With miles of hiking and biking trails, fishing in the Doe River, a swimming pool and more, you’ll find plenty to do without even leaving the park.

A short drive up the mountain you’ll find one of the Appalachian Trail’s most popular sections which runs across the balds of the Roan Highlands. After hiking through a fragrant evergreen forest, you’ll take in stunning panoramic views from the top of the balds. If you visit Roan in the summer, be sure to stop by the world’s largest natural rhododendron garden which usually

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reaches its peak bloom in June creating a sea of pink flowers.

By your second day you may be ready to cool off in the water. Watauga Lake and the Watauga River which flows from it are the perfect solution.

Surrounded by mountains and the Cherokee National Forest the lake is a pristine escape. Sailing, fishing and kayaking are all popular ways to enjoy Watauga Lake and the Watauga River is home to some of the best trout fishing in the southeast. If you prefer whitewater, other sections of the river are also ideal for rafting and kayaking.

Explore

From Elizabethton to Roan Mountain, Carter County offers travelers an experience full of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, history, and more.

FIND YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE TOURCARTERCOUNTY.COM

There is plenty to do in town in Elizabethton as well. If you’re ready for a break from exploring nature, enjoy shopping and strolling through Elizabethton’s charming downtown.

See Sycamore Shoals State Park’s full size reconstruction of the 18th century Fort Watauga and a museum highlighting the nationally significant events which took place in the area, such as the founding of the Watauga Association and the mustering of the Overmountain Men.

If you’re still in the mood for more of the outdoors, visit Off the Grid Mountain Adventures for ziplining and go kart racing, take a hike to one of the many local waterfalls or go for a bike ride on the Tweetsie Trail, a 10 mile crushed gravel rail trail which runs from Johnson City through Elizabethton along the route of the former ET&WNC Railroad.

If spending a weekend exploring the outdoors is your idea of fun, then Carter County, TN is the place for you. Start planning your adventure today at www.tourcartercounty.com.

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Discover a whole new world of giving.

“Help Educate 150 Deafblind Children in India,” a project on GlobalGiving

by Sense International

Whether you’re passionate about education in Afghanistan or wildlife conservation in Zimbabwe or any other cause under the sun, GlobalGiving has what you need to support vetted, community-led nonprofits.

GlobalGiving connects nonprofits, donors, and companies in 170+ countries around the world and helps local nonprofits access the funding, tools, training, and support they need to succeed.

GlobalGiving.org/explore

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STAND UP FOR US ALL

Clinical trials bring us closer to the day when all cancer patients can become survivors.

Clinical trials are an essential path to progress and the brightest torch researchers have to light their way to better treatments. That’s because clinical trials allow researchers to test cutting-edge and potentially life-saving treatments while giving participants access to the best options available.

If you’re interested in exploring new treatment options that may also light the path to better treatments for other patients, a clinical trial may be the right option for you. Speak with your doctor and visit StandUpToCancer.org/ClinicalTrials to learn more.

Sonequa Martin-Green, SU2C Ambassador Photo Credit: Matt Sayles Stand Up To Cancer is a division of the Entertainment Industry Foundation, a 501(c)(3) charitable organization.

BIGCATRESCUE.ORG Big Cat Rescue is a non-profit 501(c)3 charity dedicated to the care of more than 70 big cats rescued from abuse & abandonment.

Visit us online to find out more information on how you can help the big cats through donating, visiting, or volunteering.

12802 Easy Street Tampa, FL 33625

info@BigCatRescue.org

ABRA KANABRA Get off the beaten path on your next road trip and explore the unspoiled landscapes of Kanab. Hike red rock trails, slot canyons, and high mountain forests or explore any of the nearby national parks, then unwind with delicious food and comfortable accommodations for everyone. Plan to make Kanab your basecamp for Southern Utah adventure. For more information on lodging, dining, and attractions, go to:

VisitSouthernUtah.com

HIKING DISTANCE

DISTANCE from Kanab

Lake Powell/glen canyon rec area

73 miles (117 km)

SAND CAVES

coral pink sand dunes

23 miles (37 km)

Dinosaur Tracks

Zion national park

40 miles (64 kM)

wire pass

2 miles round trip

Bryce canyon nATIONAL PARK

77 miles (124 kM)

toadstools

2 miles round trip

grand canyon north rim

78 miles (126 kM)

bunting trail

3 miles round trip

Grand staircase-escalante national monument

15 miles (24 km)

1/2 mile round trip 1 mile round trip