TrailBlazer Magazine - Fall 2021 by TrailBlazer Magazine

FALL ISSUE 2021

Fall in love with the

great outdoors Exploring World Heritage Sites A Roadtrip through Florida’s Panhandle Best Beaches to Explore this winter

FALL 2021 TRAILBLAZER 1

www.trailblazermagazine.net GRAPHIC DESIGNER Michelle Villadolid MISSION STATEMENT TrailBlazer provides exclusive news and information for the members and guests of Thousand Trails Family of campgrounds and resorts.

WANT TO BE A

LUCKY WINNER?

Each issue enhances the recreational lifestyle of its readers through a lively mix of camping and travel features, campground profiles and product features. TRAILBLAZER (ISSN 0747-2293) October 2021 Vol. 59, Issue #4 is published quarterly by MHC TT Memberships, LP, c/o MHC Property Management L.P., Two North Riverside Plaza, Suite 800, Chicago, IL 60606. Periodicals postage paid at Chicago, IL and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to TRAILBLAZER, 2325 Highway 90, Gautier, MS 39553. Canada Post Publication Mail Agreement 41461526. TRAILBLAZER MAGAZINE Two North Riverside Plaza, Suite 800 Chicago, IL 60606 tbeditor@equitylifestyle.com TrailBlazermagazine.net NEW SUBSCRIPTIONS Visit www.trailblazermagazine.net and click on the ‘Subscribe’ tab to easily subscribe online today! PRINTED IN THE USA

Stu and Rose Hinch

Our winners for the Fall Issue are... Stu and Rose Hinch from Abingdon, MD. The Olneys were camping at Circle M in PA, when they were given the news! Thousand Trails is offering members the opportunity to win a $1,000 Virtual Visa® Reward Card. Gift Card

THOUSAND TRAILS RESERVATIONS Call: (800) 288-7245 Canada: (228) 497-3594 Mon - Fri 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. CST ThousandTrails.com Remember! Thousand Trails members get preferred rates at RVontheGo.com (877) 570-2267 RVontheGo.com

2 TRAILBLAZER FALL 2021

When you pay your annual dues for 2021 in full, you will be entered into our quarterly drawing for a $1,000 Virtual Visa® Reward Card. There will be one drawing/one winner each quarter from January through December 2021. In addition, once you pay your dues in full, each time you camp at a Thousand Trails campground in 2021, you will receive an additional entry into the drawing. The drawings are limited to persons who are of legal age. The drawings will be held at our corporate office on the 10th day after the end of each quarter. Winners will be notified by mail, phone or in person if camping at a Thousand Trails campground. The odds of winning will depend on the number of entries but are not expected to exceed 1:100,000. Winners are responsible for federal and state taxes on the award. Accordingly, we recommend that all participants consult a tax advisor about reporting awards for tax purposes. We will issue the required 1099 to each recipient and to the IRS when the total cash payments and value of awards you are eligible to receive equal or exceed $600.00 for one year. You may also enter the drawings by printing your name, address, day and evening phone numbers, and email address on a 3” x 5” piece of paper and mailing it to the Sponsor in addressed, stamped envelope. You are limited to one mail-in entry which must be postmarked by December 15, 2021. This promotion is sponsored by MHC Thousand Trails Limited Partnership, Two North Riverside Plaza, Suite 800, Chicago, IL 60606. The Virtual Visa® Reward will be sent via email to the email address provided. The Virtual Visa® Reward will come from reward@virtualrewardcenter.com. The Virtual Visa® Reward can be used to buy what you want, when you want it. Because it is so flexible and convenient, the Virtual Visa® Reward makes it easy to treat yourself to something special or to help cover your everyday expenses. The decision is yours. The virtual reward is issued by Sutton Bank, member FDIC, pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. and can be used wherever Visa® Debit cards are accepted. Terms and conditions apply. Your Virtual Visa® Reward may not be used outside of the U.S. and District of Columbia, nor may it be used with merchants located outside of the U.S. and District of Columbia for online, mail or telephone orders. Any purchases made with the Virtual Visa® Reward must only be in U.S. currency.

WHAT’S INSIDE

FALL 2021 VOL.59 • ISSUE 4

Best Beaches to Explore

FALL ISSUE 2021

regulars

lifestyle

54 TT Adventure

5 Message from Marguerite

60 Crossword Puzzle

6 Pictures from the Park

61 Sudoku Puzzle Fall in love with the

great

outdoors

Exploring World Heritage Sites A Roadtrip through Florida’s Panhandle Best Beaches to Explore this winter

60 Preferred RV Dealer List

tips & topics

On The

Cover:

16 Campers Gift Guide 20 Petite Retreats

56 Tech Topics 57 4 Paws on the Road

Near Gunnison, Colorado: Winding mountain road in autumn.

12 I Knew I was A TrailBlazer: The Day Family

Exploring World Heritage Sites

30 Open New Doors at myMHcommunity.com! 40 Best Beaches to Explore this Winter 48 In the Kitchen: Roasted Chicken with Butternut Squash 50 On the Road with Greensky Bluegrass

FALL 2021 TRAILBLAZER 3

THE

ROAD LEFT UNTRAVELED Is yours to explore

FIND

THE BEST RV FOR YOU WITH HELP FROM OUR RV EXPERTS

VISIT LAZYDAYS.COM OR CALL 866.531.6818

SALES • SERVICE • PARTS & ACCESSORIES

4 TRAILBLAZER FALL 2021 4

Kenisee Lake RV Campground - Jefferson, OH

MESSAGE FROM

MARGUERITE

s the leaves begin to change color and the sun sets on summer, I can’t help but reflect on what a wonderful summer it was. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, I checked in on your #100DaysofCamping pictures. I saw family reunions, dinners over the grill and campfire, giant smiles on little ones faces, pets joining in on the fun, and a shared love of camping from California all the way to Florida, the Pacific Northwest straight through to the tip of Maine. That excitement for the outdoor lifestyle united so many of you all summer long, and it was inspiring to see. That said, while we certainly celebrate the summer camping season year after year, there’s just something about camping in the fall and using the change of season to make plans for the winter ahead. The fall months are a little quieter, and the weather a little more crisp, making the campfire a little cozier and a true prize at the end of the day. Plus, s’mores taste just as good if not better with a fall crisp in the air. I encourage you to try it out! Looking to the end of the year, it feels as though this year ended just as quickly as it started. I’ve noticed holiday decorations in stores, and gift guides in email and online. Even though it seems like we just wrapped up summer, the end of the year is just around the corner, and with it the holidays and much cooler weather. If you are hoping to plan ahead for the holidays, I encourage you to check out the gift guide in this issue of the magazine. With gifts for hikers to gourmet campfire cooks, there’s a great variety of items out there.

In addition to the holidays, the end of the year brings a new season and chance to reflect back on the year prior, while planning ahead for the upcoming year. With the continued excitement around RV travel and the outdoor lifestyle, many are realizing they don’t need to hunker down for the entirety of winter and wonder if their RV is missing them, too. Whether it’s for a month or the full winter season, camping enthusiasts across the country are hoping to hit the road this winter to follow the sun and truly Winter Differently. Already winterized the RV? Try checking out a cottage in sunny Florida, Texas, or Arizona. The lifestyle you all know and love exists in the winter months, as well, with neighbors who feel like family and friendly waves from other campers and RVers. If you’re heading south to Florida this winter season, be sure to review the feature on Florida’s Panhandle in this issue of the magazine. I have a feeling you’ll be planning some detours and stops along the way in this beautiful part of the state! As always, thank you for a memorable camping season and year. I hope to continue to see many of you sharing your sunny RV photos in the winter months, should you choose to head south and try out the snowbird lifestyle. I have a feeling you’d enjoy it.

Marguerite Nader President & CEO FALL 2021 TRAILBLAZER 5

Win

EACH Issue!

Share your adventures in 3 easy steps!

1. Capture a photo of your trip at one of our parks. 2. Share with us at TrailBlazer_photos@equitylifestyle.com. 3. Check out next month to see if you’re a winner. Winners will receive a $50 Virtual Visa® Reward Card. Each issue we will select ONE “winning” photo from the submissions received (all submissions must be received by midnight on the last day of the month). The winning photo will be posted on the TrailBlazer website as well as in the magazine. Photo submissions should include a brief description, including location of your photo, your name, email address, city and state and sent to:

TrailBlazer_photos@equitylifestyle.com

▲ Medina Lake RV Campground (TX): Boy on dock. – Merril and Nensi Baker 6 TRAILBLAZER FALL 2021

or mail to:

TrailBlazer Magazine Attn: TrailBlazer Editor Two North Riverside Plaza, Suite 800 Chicago, IL 60606

Emailed photos should be high resolution. Photos are not returnable and become the property of TrailBlazer Magazine and may be used for publication on company websites and promotional purposes. One winner will be selected EACH month from submissions received. The winner will be announced in a future TrailBlazer issue and online at trailblazermagazine.net.

▲ Wilderness Lakes RV Resort (CA): Sunset over the canals. – Kyle Buchanan

▲ Hershey RV Park (PA): Enjoying the pool at Hershey Rv Park. – Lora Duty

▲ Lake of the Springs RV Resort (CA): Lake of the Springs Dam. – Mike Galli

FALL 2021 TRAILBLAZER 7

COLEMAN

THE

Outside IS calling By Lynn and Cele Seldon

8 TRAILBLAZER FALL 2021

ho would have thought that when W.C. Coleman created a gas-powered lantern in 1900 that The Coleman Company of today would be an iconic company for those who are called to the outdoors? With a variety of lanterns and other lighting options, coolers, camp kitchen offerings, camp furniture, tents, canopies, and many other camp essentials, Coleman® remains a go-to source for all kinds of campers.

“Much like our consumers, Coleman is on a journey of discovery,” says Jim Pisani, CEO of Newell Brands Outdoor Division. “We believe that when people connect in the outdoors, anything is possible. We also believe that the outside is a place for everyone. The outside is calling us.” Coleman’s great website makes it easy to shed a little light on the company’s history. For instance, in 1905, lanterns that W.C. Coleman had created were used to light the first evening football game west of the Mississippi. In 1942, Coleman camping stoves (now tailgating and campground fixtures) were created for World War II soldiers. Coleman cooler fans will love learning that, way back in 1954, the company’s plastic liners FALL 2021 TRAILBLAZER 9

revolutionized what were then called “ice chests.” This development was followed in 1960 with the introduction of Coleman tents and sleeping bags. In 1986, the 40 millionth lantern was produced, while, in 2002, Coleman developed the Olympic torch for the Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City. In 2003, the portable RoadTrip Grill was launched, leading to another level of outdoor cooking at campgrounds, tailgates, and beyond. Coleman’s 120th anniversary in 2020 celebrated “120 Years of Outdoor Memories.” Of Coleman’s campaign and mission, Bill Kirchner, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Coleman, says, “As a brand that is an anchor in the outdoor industry, we are dedicated to honoring our past as we imagine a better tomorrow,

10 TRAILBLAZER FALL 2021

understanding that every decision we make is an opportunity to leave the outside better than we found it.” For those called, today’s Coleman can help more than ever, with much more than lanterns. Of the company’s hundreds of offerings, interesting possibilities for Coleman veterans and first-timers include: the RoadTrip 285 Portable Stand-Up Propane Grill (one of many portable grill choices); the Reunion™ 54-Quart Steel Belted® Stainless Steel Cooler (among many varied coolers); the 7 x 7 Go Shade Backpack Sun Shade (again, just one of many campground shade options to expand an RV’s awning shade); and the Cooler Quad Chair (Coleman features many great camp furniture options). There’s now even a line of heated camp chairs, blankets, stadium seats, and sleeping bags from their Coleman OneSource™ line. Part of a system that powers outdoor gear, Coleman’s One Source Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery can be used interchangeably in a range of compatible devices, including lanterns, flashlights, wireless speakers, air pumps, tents, and shelters (sold separately, of course). It’s easy to recharge the battery from wall outlets, vehicles, other OneSource batteries, or universal power packs with the included USB cord. There’s also the bonus that the OneSource battery helps eliminate the need for multiple

power sources by letting users charge external devices, like smartphones or tablets, through a USB port, even while powering gear. One system, one source, power anywhere! Of course, there are still classic (and modern) Coleman lanterns, a Coleman line we still love after purchasing our first lantern more than 30 years ago. There are now more than 15 gas-powered lanterns and more than 20 battery-powered choices. There are also flashlights, spotlights, headlights, and lighting accessories in today’s line-up. In addition, there are many Coleman licensed products, including: Coleman® travel trailers; Coleman® outboard motors, boats, ATVs and UTVs; Coleman® apparel; Coleman® luggage; Coleman® insect repellents; Coleman® Saluspas (inflatable hot tubs that are great for chilly campsites); Coleman® solar products; Coleman® cameras, binoculars, and scopes; and more. As part of their campaign, “The Outside is Calling. Answer It,” Coleman is inspiring connections between people and the outside, and their gear is everywhere from the campground to the backyard and beyond, in that the company believes time spent outside reconnects people with each other and with the planet, paving the way for a better tomorrow for everyone.

COLEMAN

The Coleman Company is owned by Newell Brands, a leading global consumer goods company with a strong portfolio of well-known brands, including Coleman®, Marmot®, Mr. Coffee®, FoodSaver®, Sunbeam®, Oster®, Calphalon®, Yankee Candle®, Rubbermaid®, Paper Mate®, Sharpie®, Dymo®, EXPO®, Parker®, Elmer’s®, Rubbermaid Commercial Products®, Graco®, Baby Jogger®, NUK®, Contigo®, First Alert®, Mapa®, and Spontex®. Newell Brands focuses on building beloved #1 and #2 brands that brighten lives inside and outside every day.

GET OUTSIDE Visit www.coleman.com for information about their varied outdoors-oriented offerings. Online explorers should also be sure to click on “About Us” on the home page for more information about the Coleman Collective, a group of seven varied explorers creating a better tomorrow and better outside for everyone, one community at a time. The “About Us” link also features some great campground recipes, “Campsite” (a convenient one-stop shop for all things camping), and “The Outside is Calling Guide,” with helpful articles about destinations, bucket list activities, the cleaning and care of Coleman gear, building the perfect campfire, gear storage, and more. Long-time TrailBlazer contributors Lynn and Cele Seldon started camping together almost 30 years ago with a Coleman lantern that they still own and use. ■

FALL 2021 TRAILBLAZER 11

I KNEW I WAS A TRAILBLAZER

I knew i was a

TrailBlazer Featuring The Day Family

12 TRAILBLAZER FALL 2021

In this issue of the magazine, Trailblazer would like to introduce you to Lis and Jason Day, two longtime campers who decided to take their love of camping on the road and go fulltime as a family of six in 2018.

TB: How long have you been camping and RVing? Who introduced you to it? Tell us how it all began!

LD: My (Lis) grandparents own a campground in upstate New York, so my family has been camping since we were babies. It started as tent camping and evolved into RVing. When Jason and I got married, we started tent camping in the mountains of Utah but after adding half a dozen kids to our family, an RV made life much easier. Any chance we got, we would pack up the dirt bikes and the kids and hit the road.

TB: How did you first hear about Thousand Trails?

LD: In 2018, when we decided to travel fulltime and live in our RV, we looked for options to make that possible. I believe it was an article I read. Having a network of parks throughout the U.S. made it feel a little less uncomfortable to make this lifestyle change.

TB: What is one of your fondest camping memories? How about one of your fondest TT memories?

LD: Every Memorial Day as a kid, my family would get together; some in RVs, others in tents. We would spend the long weekend together and play games, sing along to the radio, and break bread. Jason’s fondest memory camping is when we had our class C, and took the kids to Idaho and rode our toys all day. Our fondest memories of TT surround the people we have met. Ugly sweater Christmas parties, New Year’s Eve parties, Friendsgiving, celebrating birthdays, enjoying the Florida Keys together. For us, the people are what make TT.

FALL 2021 TRAILBLAZER 13

I KNEW I WAS A TRAILBLAZER

TB: Any funny camping/RVing stories?

LD: When our 14-year-old was a baby, we went to the sand dunes in Utah. Jason, being a little immature and a lot pyromaniac, decided to find the device that made the biggest boom. No explosion or fire really, but a loud boom sound. As a friend and I were putting down our babies to sleep, they were lighting off these booms right outside of our rig. Mama bear came out that night and I’m pretty sure I scared a few of his friends. They also dug a

14 TRAILBLAZER FALL 2021

6-foot-deep hole in the sand to hide their friend’s 4-wheeler in. Just the flag was sticking up. It was hours of digging for a couple minutes of laughs and it was worth it.

TB: What type of camper are you/what equipment do you use? What do you prefer and why? (ex: fifth wheel, RV, tent, cabins, etc.) LD: Since we fulltime, a rig is essential for our

family. We are in a Grand Design Momentum Toy Hauler right now. We converted the toy hauler space to our kids’ bedroom and living room. As our kids get older we hope to do more backpacking and overnight camping in places we can’t bring the RV.

TB: Where have you gone that you wouldn’t have otherwise, if it hadn’t been for your Thousand Trails membership?

LD: One of the things we actually really like about TT is it brings us to places we wouldn’t have gone without it. There was a park right outside of Atlanta that we stayed in. It was in South Carolina and it was like the perfect summer camp.

TB: What is your favorite part about the outdoor lifestyle?

LD: Getting away from screens! Media consumes the world right now. We don’t want that for ourselves or our kids. We want to experience and explore this world.

TB: This is the question we will be finishing the feature with every month. We want to know when you knew you were the consummate camper, a true TrailBlazer. Can you finish this sentence? I knew I was a TrailBlazer when... LD: Every chance we got, we spent it outdoors. ■

FALL 2021 TRAILBLAZER 15

GIFTS FOR CAMPERS

All Kinds

By Joan Rykal

The holiday

countdown has begun and if you don’t follow the lead of most stores who begin their holiday gift blitz shortly after they clear out summer inventory, you might find yourself in a bit of a time crunch when it’s gift-giving time. Is there a universal gift for campers? Probably, but we know that there are all kinds of campers and the only thing they have in common with other campers is that they love to camp. But do they RV or tent camp? Do they camp for solitude or camaraderie? Are they strictly looking for quick, no-nonsense meals or do they like to fancy themselves a camping gourmet? So, you see, there is really no one size fits all when it comes to giving your favorite campers the best gift ever. No worries – thanks to our suggestions, you can focus on the cheer part of the holidays and rest assured your gift will be “the one!” THE ACTIVE CAMPER These are for the camper who loves to make the most of the great outdoors, from water sports to hiking and biking. If there’s an activity, the active camper is definitely doing it. Inflatable Kayak: You can go big or you can go small when it comes to price, but either way, an inflatable kayak makes the paddling camper a happy camper. L.L. Bean has a two-person, inflatable kayak with a 400-pound weight capacity that inflates and deflates easily, folding down to just 31”x18”x10” – no need to do anything more than pack it in the trunk or storage compartment (available from llbean.com for $429.99). For single paddlers, the Sevylor Quikpak K1 sets

16 TRAILBLAZER FALL 2021

Inflatable Kayak

Swiss Army Spartan Knife

GIFT GUIDE

up in five minutes, has a 21-gauge PVC construction, comes with a backpack for carrying, and is only $127.40 (available from amazon.com). Swiss Army Spartan Knife: Compactly providing the outdoor lover with just about any tool they might find they need in a pinch, this is a great gift for those traveling light but who want to be ready for all things the outdoors may throw at them. Tools include a large and a small blade knife, a corkscrew, a wire stripper, tweezers, two standard screwdrivers, and several additional handy tools (available from rei.com for $24.99). Gear Pack: Whether it’s hiking, fishing, bird-watching, biking, or walking, Patagonia’s Ultralight Black Hole® Mini Hip Pack 1L will carry the active camper’s gear from wallets to sunglasses, earbuds, or the oft-needed hand sanitizer. One size fits all but with a wide variety of colors, the durable pack can be worn as a hip pack or a sling (available from patagonia.com for $29.99).

Gear Pack

Two-Burner Stove

Chef’s Knife Set

THE GOURMET CAMPER Whoever is lucky enough to camp with this camper knows it’s going to be more than franks and beans for meals! Two-Burner Stove: There’s enough room on this handy stove to make the main dish and the side dish. Coleman’s Triton Propane 2-Burner Stove allows simmer to boil options for each burner and features a folding wind block to keep the flame contained. It’s made of durable steel and has a built-in handle for easy transport (available from rei.com for $84.95). Knife Set: This 3-piece knife set from Rakau (available from rei.com for $69.95) comes with a paring knife, a bread knife, and a santoku chef knife as well as a bamboo cutting board. There’s even a knife sharpener! Great for the beyond camp cook who likes his tools to be just right for each job. Chuck Box Camp Kitchen: This portable camp kitchen carries all your kitchen supplies including your camp stove, dishes, and cookware. It features smart storage and comes together into one portable and compact package that’s just waiting for your next camping trip to begin. Made in America, this camp kitchen also comes with a lifetime guarantee (available at yokeoutdoors.com).

FALL 2021 TRAILBLAZER 17

Chuck Box Camp Kitchen

Portable Projector

Thermarest Ultralight Cot

THE FUN TIME CAMPER These gifts are great for the camper who prides themselves on being the campsite that provides the fun times. Portable Projector: Whether it’s movie night or live streaming the big game, this mini portable projector will allow everyone a good view. The APEMAN LC450P Mini 1080P Projector gets the job done – it has built-in dual stereo speakers and is multi-device compatible (available from apeman.com for $129.99). Folding Double Camp Chair: A good host always makes sure there’s enough seating, so why not gift your fun camper with two of these, which will provide comfy seating for four. The Omni Double Camp Chair has a 300-pound weight capacity, double layer quilted padded seats, and sloped armrests with cup holders. The loveseats swivel to allow seating range to change; plus, there’s a hidden bottle opener! ($99.97, available from amazon.com). Camp Talk: With fun questions like, “if you could have any super power, what would it be…”, this compact little conversation starter and engaging game is so convenient to use, you can bring it anywhere! Just attach the tiny deck of questions to your belt, backpack or other gear with a handy carabiner and you’re set for fun anywhere you go. Great icebreaker, too (available from walmart.com for $11.99). THE TENT CAMPER Beyond the tent and sleeping bag, there are plenty of gifts to make the tent camper comfy on all future camping trips. Thermarest Ultralight Cot: Tent camping is great, but a night spent sleeping on the hard ground might not be the best thing about it. Give your tent camper the gift of a good night’s rest with the Thermarest Ultralight Cot. Not only does it get the camper off the ground, but it provides warmth thanks to the ThermaCaptureTM technology that reflects the camper’s body heat back

18 TRAILBLAZER FALL 2021

GIFT GUIDE

to them for added heat (available from Moosejaw.com, beginning at $199). BioLite HeadLamp 330: When you’re tent camping, easy access to light in the middle of the night is a good thing, but you want to make sure your companion isn’t left in the dark. Buy your favorite campers their own headlamps. The BioLite HeadLamp 330 provides 330 lumens of bright light with multiple modes including dimmable spot, flood, and red night vision. It’s also super light, weighing just 2.43 ounces (available from rei.com for $59.95). Thermacell Mosquito Repeller: Keep those pesky mosquitos at bay without the use of any chemicals or citronella candles by using the Thermacell E55 Rechargeable Mosquito Repeller. This handy item promises to keep up to a 20-foot zone mosquito free for up to 12 hours. Powered by a rechargeable lithium ion battery (available from rei.com for $39.95). THE AVID RVER An RVer basically travels with their home on wheels, but there’s always something they can use. Watt Meter: It may be inexpensive but it can prove to be invaluable – the kuman electricity usage monitor is a handy tool that lets you know what plug-ins are using the most, and least, power. The kuman KW-47 US has a digital LED display for easy reading, a built-in battery with charger and warns of overloads (available from amazon.com for $17.69). Telescoping Ladder: Who wants to carry around a large ladder when traveling via RV? And yet, there are those times when you need to get pretty high up there and still feel safe. What to do? Give the gift of the Ohuhu 8-foot aluminum telescoping ladder (available from amazon.com for $99.99). This is a sturdy ladder with a 330-pound max capacity and employs a one-button capacity for retraction. Practicality never felt so good. Air Purifier: This extremely portable and easy to use gift will keep your favorite RVer breathing easy. The Moso Natural 600-Gram Air Purifier is an ideal natural air purifier thanks to its bamboo charcoal filling and it’s good for up to 300 square feet (available from bedbathandbeyond.com for $19.99). One

BioLite HeadLamp 330

Thermacell Mosquito Repeller

Air Purifier

FALL 2021 TRAILBLAZER 19

Your vacation plans may be tiny… but they will be mighty. From tiny houses and cabins to yurts or covered wagons, your next vacation will leave a big impression.

Tropical Palms Palms RV Resort s FL

Visit petiteretreats.com

COMING SOON!

We’re excited to announce our upcoming Natchez Trace Tiny House Village, located about an hour outside of Nashville, TN. These six tiny houses can’t wait for you to visit.

credit: @mongol.wanderess

to plan your getaway today!

Yosemite Lakes RV Campground s CA 20 TRAILBLAZER FALL 2021

Leavenworth Tiny House Village s WA

SPING 2021 TRAILBLAZER

Fiesta Key RV Resort s FL FALL 2021 TRAILBLAZER 21

Exploring U.S. World Heritage Sites By Joan Rykal

22 TRAILBLAZER FALL 2021

WORLD HERITAGE

Tree of Life on Kalaloch Beach Olympic National Park — Washington

ometime back in the mid-1950s, an idea was formulated that it was probably important to ensure world-wide cultural treasures were preserved so future generations could “appreciate and enjoy them.” This idea arose during a time when the focus was on saving Egypt’s Abu Simbel temples, which while they had survived since 1244 BC, were now in danger due to the recent construction of a dam. That preservation seed morphed into what is now a list of more than 1000 locations around the world designated as World Heritage Sites. Administered by UNESCO World Heritage Committee, these sites are considered to be of “universal value to humanity.” The importance of these World Heritage designations is that they preserve the history of the culture and people that inhabited those sites and moved our world forward. A World Heritage site can be a natural occurrence, like the Grand Canyon or Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, or can be man-made structures that played an important part in the history of a country like Independence Hall in Philadelphia or the Great Wall of China.

FALL 2021 TRAILBLAZER 23

WORLD HERITAGE

Yosemite National Park - California

Twenty-four of these World Heritage Sites can be found in the U.S. Listed here are just a few. Olympic National Park is noted for its diverse eco-systems. Several reasons this stunning Washington State location is listed include its topography, which ranges from 73 miles of seacoast to soaring glacial peaks like Mount Olympus; the Hoh rainforest which is located here; its plants and animals and the wealth of natural resources. Olympic National Park was designated a World Heritage Site in 1981. The Park is vast and covers nearly 1 million acres with roughly 95% listed as designated wilderness. Visitors can enjoy plenty of activities including winter fun like skiing, snowboarding, and tubing, as well as other seasonal activities like fishing, hiking, and tide pooling. Yosemite National Park is another vast part of our beautiful landscape designated as a World Heritage Site (1984). Like Olympic National Park, Yosemite is noted for its incredible topography and the range of what can be found in this more than 700-acre natural wonderland in northern California, which includes meadows, waterfalls, groves of Sequoias, and the stunning peaks that are El Capitan and Half Dome. Aside from just marveling at its beauty, visitors to Yosemite can hike, bike, birdwatch, climb, fish, swim, ski, and stargaze. 24 TRAILBLAZER FALL 2021

Mammoth Cave - Kentucky

Florida Everglades - Florida

If you look to important moments that solidified the freedoms our founding fathers conceived for the newly born United States, they may well harken back to the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution, both of which occurred in Philadelphia’s Independence Hall. In fact, many consider Independence Hall to be the birthplace of our country where the concepts proposed were debated and fine-tuned to become the historical documents that continue to shape our democracy. Visitors to this historic structure, which was completed in 1753 and is now part of the

National Park Services, can tour the various rooms where history was made. It was designated a World Heritage Site in 1979. As the most extensive cave system in the world, Kentucky’s Mammoth Cave was named a World Heritage Site in 1981 for several reasons. Aside from being the most extensive cave system in the world, it is also home to more than 130 species of wildlife and almost every type of cave formation, including stalactites and stalagmites, which can be found in this more than 400 mile system. Located in the southcentral part of the state, visitors can take cave tours as

Fallingwater, located 70 miles south of Pittsburgh, PN

well as hike, bike, and fish in the above-ground portion of this beautiful National Park. Other U.S. World Heritage Sites include Florida’s Everglades National Park, Thomas Edison’s Monticello, the University of Virginia (which Jefferson founded), and the San Antonio Missions in Texas. For a complete list, visit whc.unesco.org/en/ statesparties/us. If you’re interested in visiting these U.S. World Heritage Sites, plan to stay with us along the way. Visit www.thousandtrails.com to see which campgrounds are conveniently located near these historic and cultural treasures. ■

One World Heritage Site designation is actually a compilation of structures designed by famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright, who is known as the father of organic architecture, which promotes harmony among the natural world and human habitation. In his lifetime, Wright designed more than 1000 structures across the country, eight of which are designated as World Heritage Sites. They include:

TALIESIN

TALIESIN WEST

ROBIE HOUSE

UNITY TEMPLE

Taliesin, Wright’s estate located just outside Madison, Wisconsin

Taliesin West, Wright’s winter home and school, located in Scottsdale, Arizona

Robie House, designed by Wright in the famous Prairie Style, located in Chicago, Illinois

Unity Temple, considered one of the world’s first modern buildings, found in Oak Park, Illinois

HOLLYHOCK HOUSE

Hollyhock House, originally a private residence, the house is now the center of Barnsdale Art Park, located in Los Angeles, California. FALL 2021 TRAILBLAZER 25

FLORIDA PANHANDLE Driving the

A ‘Forgotten Florida’ Road Trip By Lynn & Cele Seldon

enerally running about 200 miles along the coastline from Pensacola to the “Big Bend” at Apalachee Bay, the Florida Panhandle is less visited than many other parts of the Sunshine State. However, that doesn’t mean it has less to offer. From quiet beaches to lots of nature and fresh seafood, the Florida Panhandle makes for a great road trip. While it would be tempting to rush across the region on Interstate 10, varied roads (like US 98) right along the coastline create a better way to explore the area. The adventure begins at the Alabama-Florida state line, formed by Perdido Bay. Situated in both Perdido Key and Orange Beach, Alabama (put 17401 Perdido Key Drive, Perdido Key,

26 TRAILBLAZER FALL 2021

in the GPS), legendary FloraBama is a landmark bar and so much more. Open 365 days a year, the complex includes five stages for varied live music (featured daily) and a variety of hotspots for refreshments (order a Bushwacker!), tasty food, and more. The numerous options here include Flora-Bama Lounge, with its own walk-up oyster bar, two sitdown restaurants across the street on the Ole River (Flora-Bama Ole River Grill and Flora-Bama Yacht Club—be sure to slurp up some gulf coast oysters), a marina with inshore and offshore fishing options, watersports rentals, and even the Flora-Bama Liquor & Lotto general store. From here, it’s also easy to explore Alabama’s beaches before or after a Florida Panhandle road trip. Before heading back to the mainland and into downtown Pensacola, beach lovers will want to check out Rosamond Johnson Beach, a remote section of Gulf Islands National

Seashore further to the east on Perdido Key. It’s a classic Florida Panhandle beach setting, with the area’s iconic white sand and blue water that’s permanently protected for all to enjoy. Historic downtown Pensacola is next and it’s well worth a stop. Highlights here can include: great sunrises at Community Maritime Park; Palafox Pier; great dining at downtown proper’s Restaurant IRON, Jackson’s Steakhouse, and Joe Patti’s (a miniature version of Seattle’s Pike Place Market) and The Fish House, The Fish House Deck, and Atlas Oyster House down on the water; shopping on Palafox Street and beyond; Saturday’s Palafox Market; many museums; and Blue Wahoos Minor League Baseball overlooking pretty Pensacola Bay. Heading south toward the Gulf of Mexico, Pensacola Beach and US 98 await. The possibilities here include: the sparkling beach, of course, but there’s also the Pensacola Beach Boardwalk and Pensacola Beach Fishing Pier,

FLORIDA PANHANDLE

Destin Harbor – Florida

tasty dining (look for red roof of Crabs on the Beach), watersports, Gulf World and their Dolphin Discovery offering (they have locations worldwide), lots of popular seasonal events, historic Fort Pickens, and more of Gulf Islands National Seashore. The road on US 98 continues east toward quiet Navarre Beach, busy Fort Walton Beach, Destin, cute Grayton Beach, the groundbreaking town of Seaside, and beyond. Part of the Emerald Coast, Fort Walton Beach and Destin, below Choctawhatchee Bay, are quite commercial and ideal for beaching it, mild to wild attractions (like the Emerald Coast Wildlife Reserve and Gulf Breeze Zoo), golf (popular all along the coast), watersports, food and drink (look for Lucy Buffett’s Lulu’s—from Jimmy Buffett’s sister), shopping, and more. Next, Grayton Beach is a must-stop, thanks to its beach-y Florida Panhandle vibe. Options include the Grayton General Store for provisions and more, AJ’s

Grayton Beach bar and restaurant, Spanish-inspired Chiringo restaurant, and a great beach for swimming, fishing, and frolicking. You can even drive vehicles on to the beach in certain sections. For a more peaceful view, stroll down to the east side of Grayton Beach and take in a slice of Old Florida along the marsh banks of Western Lake, as well as views of Grayton Beach State Park across the water. Seaside is also well worth a stop, including sustenance at several Bud & Alley’s outposts, Pickle’s Beachside Grill, loads of gourmet food trucks and trailers (including classic Airstreams) lining the main drag, Modica Market, popular Sundog Books, and a cute post office. Seaside provides a classic “seaside” environment that’s been emulated in nearby towns and across the country from the Atlantic to the Pacific. Like Grayton Beach and Seaside, Rosemary Beach is similarly beach-y, with the fun commercialism of Panama City

Beach and Panama City proper just 15 miles to the east further on US 98. If passing through town in the morning, ask a local about Big Bad Breakfast in Inlet Beach. It’s one of six BBB hotspots in the Southeast from Mississippi’s James Beard award-winning chef, John Currence. Long known as a classic southern beach getaway, Panama City Beach has much to offer, including more than 25 miles of sugar-white sand beaches, St. Andrews State Park, Pier Park, the towering new Skywheel, Panama City Beach Conservation Park, many ecotourism activities and adventures, lots of events, unique dining (like fresh seafood at Hunt’s Oyster Bar & Seafood Restaurant and elsewhere in the selfproclaimed “Seafood Capital of the South”), and super shopping (ask about the “Décor by the Shore” shopping adventure). Passing through downtown Panama City proper and heading further east on US 98, even more stunning Gulf Coast driving awaits FALL 2021 TRAILBLAZER 27

FLORIDA PANHANDLE before arriving in Mexico Beach (about 25 miles). From beaches to fishing and much more, Mexico Beach is a great place to visit— and no passport required (though the time zone changes here from Central to Eastern). The 45-minute or so drive to Apalachicola (“The Oyster Capital of the World”) is equally stunning, with possible stops and detours along the way including Cape San Blas Lighthouse, historic St. Joe, quiet Cape San Blas, St. Vincent Island National Wildlife Refuge, and more. Situated where the Apalachicola River meets Apalachicola Bay, many believe (co-authors included) that Apalachicola is one of the Florida Panhandle’s top destinations. At the heart of the originally dubbed “Forgotten Coast®,” Apalachicola’s charming downtown area features classic dining, shopping, and cultural attractions. Oysters and more (including tasty local shrimp straight off the shrimp boats) can be enjoyed at friendly Up the Creek Raw, where they feature counter service, fresh fare (much more than raw seafood), and equally pretty views. Cultural attractions include John Gorrie Museum State Park (Gorrie invented the ice machine), historic Dixie Theatre, and many galleries. Many outdoors-oriented options (including the Panhandle’s world-

28 TRAILBLAZER FALL 2021

class fishing) are also available in and near quaint Apalachicola. Seafood-centric fare is also just across the long bridge from downtown Apalachicola. Eastport is also the jumping-off point for St. George Island, St. George Island State Park, and historic Cape St. George Light, to the south, down Route 300. Just after leaving Eastport proper, be sure to look for Lynn’s Quality Oysters, right on the water on the right. They feature a raw bar that is beloved by locals, visitors, and this article’s “namesake” co-author alike, plus a market specializing in fresh local seafood, popular smoked fish dips, and more. As the drive nears its end (or start) further east at Apalachee Bay, stops can include Crooked River Lighthouse, cute Carabelle and its natural deepwater harbor, and narrow Alligator Point. With the road either turning north for Tallahassee on US 319 or US 98 continuing east (look for St. Marks Lighthouse, quiet Perry, and cute Steinhatchee), the Alligator Point area and Apalachee Bay traditionally mark the Big Bend area and the eastern border of the Florida Panhandle. Long-time TrailBlazer magazine contributors Lynn and Cele Seldon (www.seldonink. com) have written more than 100 articles about Florida. They both are big fans of Panhandle oysters, including those found at “namesake” Lynn’s Quality Oysters in Eastport, which features a raw bar, lots of other fresh local seafood, tasty smoked fish dips, and more (Lynn loves his Lynn’s Quality Oysters T-shirt). ■

I-10 STOPS Road trippers who choose to take the quicker interstate route through the Florida Panhandle will find many great stops near I-10 exits and along less-busy US 90. Heading east from the Alabama-Florida state line, the possibilities include: Pensacola; Milton; Blackwater River State Park; Adventures Unlimited Outdoor Center (river adventures, ziplining, and more); Samuel’s Roadhouse, Peaden Brothers Distillery, and Johnny O’Quigley’s Ale House (all at the Crestview exit); fun DeFuniak Springs (look for historic Hotel DeFuniak and its Tropicana Club); Vortex Spring (scuba diving and more); Ponce de Leon Springs State Park, Falling Waters State Park, Florida Caverns State Park (the area has lots of caves and caverns); Seacrest Wolf Preserve (currently only offering VIP tours), T&B Hidden Treasures, Three Oaks Winery, M&M BBQ, Bonifay Seafood Market, and more near the Bonifay, Chipley, and Marianna exits; Three Rivers State Park and Lake Seminole (which straddles the Florida-Georgia state line); cute Quincy; and, of course, Tallahassee, Florida’s state capital.

FALL 2021 TRAILBLAZER 29

It’s not about what you’re leaving behind.

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Take a Virtual Tour and make it yours!

30 TRAILBLAZER FALL 2021

It’s about what you’re going to.

3 Ways to Explore our Quick Move-In Ready Homes VIRTUAL SHOWINGS

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ideo walk through tours V of select home models are available online or upon request.

We invite you to enjoy a virtual walk through of our stunning model homes with our Interactive Model Home Tours.

Learn more at or Call (800) 274-7314 FALL 2021 TRAILBLAZER 31

10 TOP

NATIONAL PARKS FOR FALL FOLIAGE Where to go for parks leaf peeping

the season changes to fall, things really get colorful all across America. That’s especially true for our nation’s national parks. The varied landscapes of our parks have made park leaf peeping a colorful way to see this country from coast to coast. From vibrant reds and yellows to majestic purples across the mountains and valleys, blazing colors can be found easily just by getting behind the wheel and letting your eyes (and this article) lead the way. Thanks to varied deciduous trees and environments, the country is blessed with a fall foliage palette that makes leaf peeping like driving through a Norman Rockwell painting. The National Parks System website says, “Every year, trees across the nation change their leaf color from green to gold, crimson, amber, and even jewel-toned purple. This process is part of a much larger undertaking where trees of all shapes and sizes spend

32 TRAILBLAZER FALL 2021

By Lynn & Cele Seldon

the autumn months getting ready for the trials of winter.” But, before winter starts, lucky leaf peepers get to enjoy fall colors in national parks and beyond. The science behind leaves changing colors each fall is relatively simple. According to the tree huggers at The United States Arboretum in Washington, D.C., fall foliage season starts across the country as the days begin to get shorter in late-summer and early-autumn. Leaves change colors because the production of green chlorophyll, which normally masks yellow and red coloring, slows and eventually stops—allowing vibrant yellows and reds to emerge. Red and purple pigments come from the fall production of anthocyanins in the leaves. All of these pigments

eventually break down and the only ones that remain are tannin-producing various brown colors in the leaves. The starting time of leaves changing colors is dependent on night length, so fall colors generally appear at about the same time each year in specific locations, even if temperatures are cooler or warmer than is typical. However, along with shorter days, sunlight, temperature, elevation, soil moisture, and more all influence the “quality” of fall foliage every year in each unique destination. Many states and even some specific destinations (like

NATIONAL PARKS

Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Asheville, North Carolina) now have updated information and dedicated pages on their visitor websites devoted to fall foliage. This makes it easy to find locations, drives, directions, and information about peak periods in each national park and beyond. Although national parks have been around since 1872, they remain quite elusive, in that just 63

Chalten Valley

protected areas within the United States have been deemed a national park since Yellowstone National Park became the nation’s first almost 150 years ago. FALL 2021 TRAILBLAZER 33

Great Smoky Mountain National Park

The New River Gorge joined the elite list in December 2020 as the country’s 63rd national park— New River Gorge National Park and Preserve—and West Virginia’s only entry. Acadia National Park (Maine) Ideally situated along the rugged Maine coast, south of US 1 on Mt. Desert Island, Acadia National Park provides a perfect way to see coastal fall colors, with the Atlantic Ocean, lots of bays, rocky coastline, mountains, historic cottages, and more for backdrops. From bright red blueberry bushes to sumac shrubs and trees found around Jordan Pond, up on Cadillac Mountain (the highest point on the eastern seaboard), other popular tree spottings include maples, poplars, aspens, and birches, as well as plants in the wetlands and along the park’s rocky coastline. This northeast national park is well worth the drive to Maine come fall. Shenandoah National Park & Great Smoky Mountains National Park (Virginia, North Carolina, & Tennessee) There may be no more classic fall foliage drive in the United States than the 469-mile Blue Ridge Parkway through Virginia and North Carolina. With well-marked overlooks, easy-to-use mile markers, lots of maples and many other colorful trees, bonus fall wildflowers, and varied camping and dining along the way, this is one of America’s easiest ways to get a full dose of fall colors in the mountains. The drive connects Shenandoah National Park with Great Smoky Mountains National Park (which extends into Tennessee), with possible classic stops including: Mabry Mill; Peaks of Otter (great dining with a view); Richard Balsam Overlook (which, at 6,053 feet, features views from the highest point on the Parkway);

34 TRAILBLAZER FALL 2021

NATIONAL PARKS

Moses H. Cone Memorial Park; and the Ridge Parkway Visitor Center and the Folk Art Center. As a colorful bonus for those with time, this fall foliage drive is easily extended by adding 105-mile Skyline Drive on the north end of the Blue Ridge Parkway. New River Gorge National Park & Preserve (West Virginia) New River Gorge National Park and Preserve is America’s newest national park and it’s a special place for fall foliage, whether it’s “in” the gorge or “on” the river (ironically, the New is one of the world’s oldest rivers). The

Shenandoah National Park

Zion National Park

New River Gorge runs roughly 53 miles along the New River and encompasses more than 70,000 acres from Lansing to Hinton. With deep and spectacular canyons created by the rugged whitewater river, the best place for leaf peepers to start an exploration of the gorge is at the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve Canyon Rim Visitor Center. From here, there are lots of other spectacular views available throughout the park, but the New River itself offers a unique way to enjoy fall colors, and whitewater outfitters like Adventures on the

Gorge (AOTG), one of the region’s largest and most developed outdoor adventure resorts, can accommodate with rafting trips and many other New River adventures. Cuyahoga Valley National Park (Ohio) Situated just a half-hour south of Cleveland and 15 minutes or so north of Akron, this lesser-known national park features colorful forests, rushing waterfalls for backdrops, and lots of various hiking, biking, and paddling options. Brandywine Falls and

Blue Hen Falls are great places to head for colorful pictures, but the woodlands everywhere feature a variety of beech, maple, hickory, oak, sycamore, and more. The park’s Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad trips feature many great options for unique fall foliage viewing. There’s also the Ohio & Erie Towpath Trail, which is great for walking or biking amidst the parks fall glory. Guadeloupe Mountains National Park (Texas) Providing one of America’s “last” places for fall color before FALL 2021 TRAILBLAZER 35

NATIONAL PARKS

Cuyahoga Valley National Park

winter, Guadeloupe Mountains National Park in northern Texas (about two hours east of El Paso) provides great late-fall leaf peeping possibilities. Mountains, canyons, deserts, dunes, and more are among the options, with lots of oaks, walnuts, bigtooth maples, and other hardwoods and shrubs spread throughout the landscapes. In the northern part of the park, McKittrick Canyon Trail is known to provide some of the finest fall colors found in the Lone Star State and beyond. Other colorful hiking trails include “the Notch” and “the Grotto.” Rocky Mountain National Park (Colorado) Straddling the Continental Divide and thus providing a lot of fall foliage diversity with its many mountains, rivers, and lakes, Rocky Mountain National Park’s quivering gold and orange aspens are its calling cards for good reason, but the orange cottonwood and more also deserve and draw the attention of Colorado leaf lovers who 36 TRAILBLAZER FALL 2021

enjoy the sight and sound of the park’s aspens. Possible stops and drives include Trail Ridge Road, Glacier Gorge, Gem Lake, Beaver Meadows, Hollowell Park, and the Colorado River Valley and Bear Lake Road, where the odds are apparently best for spotting the park’s elk herds during rutting season. Aspens with a foreground of still green water are typically picture-perfect at Grand Lake, just outside the park’s Grand Lake entrance. Zion National Park (Utah) This canyon-laden park’s stunning red sandstone cliffs provide a special backdrop for fall colors. Fremont cottonwoods are the star along the Virgin River and on other park streams, but there are also lots of birches, box elders, bigtooth maples, aspens, oaks, and hackberries, as well. As with many of the nation’s parks, fall is definitely less-crowded than summer in Zion National Park. Along with almost anywhere along the Virgin River, Pa’rus Trail provides another perfect leaf peeping possibility.

Yosemite National Park (California) From the valley to the peaks, the leaf peeping possibilities in this popular park are almost endless. Ansel Adams’s iconic black-and-white photographs of the park come to life in full color come fall, and fall visitors will find cottonwoods, oaks, dogwoods, maples, aspens, colorful ferns, and much more (without the summer crowds). The National Park Service reports fall color hotspots in the park include: the southern wall of Yosemite Valley below Bridalveil Creek and beyond Happy Isles; Glacier Point; Wawona; Tuolumne; El Portal; and several colorful park meadows that have yellowing Indian hemp, bracken ferns, and certain sedges and grasses. Glacier National Park (Montana) Famed for its deciduous trees, including the western larch (often called tamarack), which is a deciduous pine-like species with needles that turn bright yellow before falling for winter,

Glacier National Park’s mountain and lake backdrops make for a unique national park to visit come fall. Possible spots for especially bright fall colors include lots of stops on US 2 in the southwestern part of the park, Lake McDonald, Going-to-the-Sun Road, Big Mountain (on the Summit Trail), and the park’s famed Ptarmigan Pass. Paddling the Middle Fork of the Flathead River is another colorful option. The park is definitely less-crowded when the colors start turning, the animals make more appearances, and winter approaches. Mount Rainier National Park (Washington) Situated just 80 miles southeast of Seattle, Mount Rainier features the northwest United States in all its fall glory. Colorful Cascade Range trees include willow, maple, aspen, elderberry, tamarack, and many more. There are also lots of smaller bushes,

GO ONLINE

BEFORE GOING LEAF PEEPING The National Park Service’s

excellent website (www.nps.

gov) provides many “Fall Trip Ideas” for various parks. The site also divides our nation’s

63 national parks into forests and woodlands, coniferous forests, deciduous forests, and rainforests, which can all provide for unique leaf

peeping. Be sure to check

out the varied interagency pass options through,

“America the Beautiful — The National Parks and Federal

Recreational Lands Passes.”

shrubs, and trees, including elderberries, huckleberries, willows, and vine maples, among many. Elk spottings in the park aren’t uncommon come fall. White Pass, Chinook Pass, and the Skyline Trail are all popular options as the colors start changing in the park. Of course, there are many other national parks with colorful fall foliage, with just a few other diverse possibilities including: Congaree National Park (South Carolina); Grand Canyon National Park (Arizona); Grand Teton National Park (Wyoming); Sequoia National Park (California); Lassen Volcano National Park (California); Olympic National Park (Washington); and Denali National Park (Alaska). Also, don’t forget to check out ThousandTrails.com and RVontheGo.com to book your sites as you take in the beautiful fall colors across the country! ■

Yosemite National Park FALL 2021 TRAILBLAZER 37

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BEST BEACHES

BEACHY KEEN Ideas for a

WINTER GETAWAY By Joan Rykal

California’s Catalina Island 40 TRAILBLAZER FALL 2021

on’t get caught without a beach itinerary this winter. Plan ahead to make sure that you find the perfect beach getaway where you can while away the winter months with your toes firmly planted in the sand. We found several that will suit any beach personality – from those who like their beaches with an island flair to those who find quiet and secluded the perfect place to relax, plus everything in between.

Island-Style Beaches

Nothing better than a beach surrounded by water on all sides! There are several islands in the U.S. that are home to some lovely beaches surrounded by water and we’ve found a few to consider for your winter beach adventures.

FALL 2021 TRAILBLAZER 41

Fort Jefferson in the Dry Tortugas off the coast of The Florida Keys

42 TRAILBLAZER FALL 2021

BEST BEACHES Northern California Coast

California’s Catalina Island, which is about 20 miles southwest of Los Angeles, offers several beaches to soak up the warm California sun. This tiny, sunny island, which runs about 22 miles long, has plenty of beaches offering different personalities. Descanso Beach is known as the party beach while Middle Beach has views of the harbor and is close to shops and restaurants. They all offer soft sand, the gentle sounds of the surf, and great views of the beautiful blue Pacific. Off-beach adventures can include a visit to the Catalina Island Museum or a hike or two on the island’s 165 miles of trails.

While its name may lead you to believe it is an island, Coronado Island is actually connected to California’s mainland by a small strip of land known as the Silver Strand. But, regardless of its status as a true island or not, it has some great beaches. North Beach is great for your fourlegged traveling companions while those seeking more than just an ocean view will enjoy Coronado Central Beach with a view of the iconic Hotel Del Coronado. The Dry Tortugas is an island that sits in the lower half of the Florida Keys, so named because of the abundance of sea turtles, or tortugas FALL 2021 TRAILBLAZER 43

BEST BEACHES

Windansea Beach, California 44 TRAILBLAZER FALL 2021

Key West, Florida

in Spanish, that were found on the island when discovered by explorer Ponce de Leon in 1513. There are also several pristine beaches found here that offer silky sands and great snorkeling opportunities. The beaches of Key West, one of the more well-known islands in the chain of islands that make up the Florida Keys, range from large (Smathers Beach) to small (Higgs Memorial Beach Park). Higgs Beach, by the way, may be a favorite of the island’s gypsy chickens as they have been spotted walking the beach. Off-beach adventures in Key West can include a glass-bottom boat ride, a visit to The Hemingway Home and Museum, or a spirited tour of one of the local rum distilleries. South Carolina enjoys a mild winter so a trip to Kiawah Island is worth the drive if you’re spending your winter in the Palmetto State. Beachwalker State Park is the island’s public beach and is

great for birdwatching and glimpses of wildlife and maybe a dolphin or two. If South Texas is your winter destination, then South Padre Island must be your winter beach destination. Also known as SPI, the South Padre area is known as the Texas Riviera and welcomes plenty of sun-seekers each winter – in fact make that year-round, since there is so much to see and do here. Not only can you lounge on the beach, but you can also drive on the beach! The area is a great place for birdwatching and is home to the South Padre Island Birding, Nature Center & Alligator Sanctuary. As far as beaches go, there are 34 miles of white sand with plenty of public access points. Hunt for crabs, build a sandcastle, watch the water sports, or better yet, try some for yourself, and enjoy this little part of Texas.

Land-Lover Beaches

Of course, by its very nature, a beach

cannot be land-locked, so if you prefer to stay ashore and still enjoy sand and water, try some of these more popular beaches on the mainland. CALIFORNIA Isn’t California one big beach? Seriously though, there are plenty of award-winning beaches and plenty of little-known beaches to satisfy your beachy appetite if California is your winter go-to destination. Monterey County has Carmel River State Beach, Del Monte Beach, and Pfeiffer Beach in Big Sur. Del Monte Beach is free, dog-friendly and has a wooden boardwalk and Pfeiffer Beach has the oft-photographed Keyhole Arch rock formation and purple sand thanks to mineral deposits. Heading south, you’ll find Pismo Beach, known for surfing, fishing, and clam digging for the Pismo clam when it’s in season. Santa Barbara beaches are popular spots for sunsets and water sports, and FALL 2021 TRAILBLAZER 45

they include Goleta Beach Park, Hendry’s Beach, and Butterfly Beach, where you might spy a celeb or two. Farther south, Los Angeles County beaches include Zuma, Malibu, Santa Monica, and Venice Beach, known for its street performers, shops, and the famed Muscle Beach outdoor gym. Winding up the coastal beach run from north to south are the beaches of San Diego. Windansea Beach is great for watching surfers and Pacific Beach is kitschy with its taco stands and beach bars. Ocean Beach is great for sunbathing and swimming and Imperial Beach is dog friendly.

Cocoa Beach Florida

46 TRAILBLAZER FALL 2021

FLORIDA Well, Florida comes pretty close to being an island, as it is surrounded by water on both coasts. Even the state’s Panhandle region borders water. You’ve got your pick here of Atlantic coast beaches and Gulf Coast beaches. The Gulf side of Florida is home to several of the beaches that consistently make Top Ten lists when it comes to great beaches. Past listmakers have included the beaches on Sanibel Island, known for their fabulous shelling opportunities, the beaches of Fort Myers, and Tampa

Bay’s Clearwater Beach, known for its great sunsets. Speaking of sunsets, St. Pete’s Beach is known for those also and can now add “Best Beach in the Nation” to its list of awards. The beach was named Number One in Tripadvisor’s annual Travelers’ Choice rankings for 2021. On the Atlantic side, there’s the famed beaches of Miami - namely Haulover Beach for picnics and kite flying, Surfside Beach for a low-key, non-commercial beach or South Beach for those who love party central. Daytona Beach and its hard-packed sand are ideal for biking and driving

BEST BEACHES along and Cocoa Beach is great for those looking to surf. Farther north, there’s the beaches near historic St. Augustine which includes Ponte Vedra Beach, where you might find a shark tooth and visitors can’t miss the statue of Ponce de Leon.

TEXAS Boca Chica Beach in Brownsville, Texas, is a quiet little beach in comparison to the well-known beaches of South Padre Island. Located about 23 miles from Brownsville, this eight-mile beach

offers little in the way of amenities and plenty in the way of water opportunities. Swimming, snorkeling, and kiteboarding are options here as are birdwatching and surf fishing. Of course, a plus here is beach access is free as are the sunsets! ■

Coronado, CA

FALL 2021 TRAILBLAZER 47

IN THE KITCHEN

Who is in the kitchen with

TrailBlazer 48 TRAILBLAZER FALL 2021

Campfire Chicken Breast with Butternut Squash 2 16-20 oz. skin-on, bone-in split chicken breasts 1 Butternut squash (2-3 lbs.) 2 Garlic cloves 1 tsp Oregano, dried 2 sprigs Rosemary

Juice from half a lemon Salt and pepper Oils & Vinegars 3 tbsp Olive oil 1/4 cup grated Parmesan 1 Cast Iron Skillet

Preheat grill to 450°F

Combine 2 tsp olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, oregano, and 2/3 of the rosemary in a small bowl. Stir and set aside.

Combine butternut squash, 1 tsp olive oil, and parmesan cheese in a bowl, season with salt and pepper, and toss until evenly coated. Set aside.

4. Place split breasts in a cast iron skillet, trying not

to overlap or overcrowd. Season liberally with salt and pepper.

Brush the olive oil/seasoning mix over the chicken breasts until evenly coated.

Place skillet on the grill and cook each side of the chicken for 15-20 minutes. Remove skillet from the grill and add in squash, arranging around the chicken. It’s OK if some are slightly under the chicken. Grill for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until chicken reaches an internal temp of 160-165°F. Mix squash in skillet after 10 minutes to help cook more evenly.

Remove skillet from the grill and let chicken rest in the skillet for 5 minutes before serving. Serve sprinkled with the rest of the fresh rosemary all over. The final serving temp should be 165 °F. A digital thermometer really helps! FALL 2021 TRAILBLAZER 49

ON THE ROAD

50 TRAILBLAZER FALL 2021

Road O n the

With

Greensky B l u e g r as s By Lynn and Cele Seldon

hether you spend life on the road for pleasure or work, it’s nice to have the comforts of home as you travel the highways and byways. Trailblazer checks in with folks who spend a fair amount of time on the road to see just what makes their home away from home. This month, we chatted with American progressive bluegrass/rock band, Greensky Bluegrass. Playing together for almost 20 years, the five members of Greensky Bluegrass are more like brothers than colleagues. They finish each other’s sentences, laugh at inside jokes, and have a respect and love for one another that is palpable. And, after a year apart due to the pandemic, they are beside themselves with joy to be back on the road performing their high energy concerts at legendary venues and festivals across the country.

Hailing from Michigan, Ohio, and Pennsylvania, getting their start in Kalamazoo, Michigan, and now living across the country, we caught up with members Anders Beck (dobro), Paul Hoffman (mandolin), Mike Devol (upright bass), Dave Bruzza (guitar), and Michael Bont (banjo), via Zoom from the dugout at Coolray Field in Gwinnett County, Georgia, before a performance that evening.

How would you describe your sound?

Hoffman - Acoustic rock ‘n roll band. We love bluegrass. We play bluegrass instruments. We play some bluegrass, but we really play a psychedelic, heavy-handed rock and roll version of it. Beck - It’s like bluegrass, except cooler.

FALL 2021 TRAILBLAZER 51

You guys used to tour 180 days a year. Now you are more selective, playing multiple nights in larger venues. Why the switch?

Devol – You want to reach that level as a band where you don’t have to go make music every night. Even though we love making music—it’s what we do—we’re fortunate enough and have stuck with it long enough that we reached a point where we could be more selective. Hoffman – It’s like we made a pact with our fans. As a young band, you come around to everyone’s town and play their favorite bar. They like you and it’s like you make an unspoken pact that’s like, “Hey, do we have a deal now? You do some of the traveling next time and we’ll come to a town close to you and play for all of you.”

What was 2020 like for you?

Devol – We played music alone, we wrote music, we practiced music. We missed each other, but we wrote and recorded an album during that time over a few sessions. It opened up some time for the creative process to get away from our touring schedule. Parenting. Being outside. Sleeping. Bruzza – It was nice to have that kind of break and get some things in order. Beck – At first it was daunting. We got everything—our artistic careers, our livelihood—ripped out from underneath us. Hoffman – At first, we were cancelling shows one at a time. It would have been nice if we had known up front and had made peace with it. We missed performing music, we missed our fans. But we really missed each other and our crew. This thing we do out on the road, we live together, we’re like a family living in this small vehicle traveling down the highway together. We just missed that.

52 TRAILBLAZER FALL 2021

Your shows are highenergy. Tell us about a typical performance. Beck – It’s a transfer of energy between us and our fans. It’s improvisational music. We try to create something every night that’s unique and interesting and we think our fans really appreciate that.

What kind of bus do you travel in? Tell us about it.

Beck - Prevost is usually what we travel in. But we graduated to that. We used to travel in this thing called the Bandwagon. Blanche Devereaux was her name.

Does the band sleep on the bus?

Beck – We usually travel overnight so we wake up somewhere that we’re going to play. We sleep while we are rolling. I love sleeping in there. It’s

ON THE ROAD

like this little cocoon. There are these bunks, you pull the curtain back and the air is blowing on you. Bont - It’s like we’re vampires. Beck – It’s like a little womb.

What’s your favorite thing about staying on your bus versus a hotel room?

Devol – Nintendo and microwaveable soup dumplings from Trader Joe’s. Beck – It’s sort of like being at summer camp. We get to be with each other on this cool bus. It’s a pretty fun existence. Devol – Being on the bus, it’s like it’s okay that we’ve been transported back to being freshman in college. Hoffman – Hanging out with all our buddies. Sometimes when the bus leaves right after the gig, we’re all awake, snacking, making jokes, whipping up pizza.

What else (other than listening to music) do you do when you are on road?

Devol – Generally, the bus is our sanctuary for quiet, rest, or other human need pursuits. Beck – Over the years, we’ve all figured out our own schedules where you can have alone time over the course of the day. There is a front lounge and a back lounge. [The] back lounge is usually for video games and other things. The front lounge has two TVs on either side. Hoffman - Sometimes we have movie nights. Have you ever heard of “Tales from the Tour Bus?” [Editor’s Note: Hoffman is referencing the animated documentary television series, “Mike Judge Presents: Tales from the Tour Bus.”] Devol – The way the bus is designed, you can usually have all these things going on at the same time. Family movie night can be going on in the front, one dude can go to bed early or sleep in, and Nintendo in the back. Everyone can co-exist, and everyone can do their own thing.

Do you cook onboard? Devol – We don’t have the means for a lot of involved onboard food

preparation. We have a refrigerator and a microwave. We usually bring a toaster oven and blender for smoothies. You’d be surprised how creative you can get with limited tools when you are in the mood.

Highways or scenic routes?

Hoffman - Occasionally, if we have enough time between travel dates, we’ll plot out somewhere fun to stop instead of just plowing through. It’s a perk of our job and it’s important that we all love to travel. We would probably all be RVers if we were normal guys.

Did anyone ever camp as a kid or as a family vacation?

Beck - Yes. My family had a little pop-up trailer that they towed around when I was a kid. I have fond memories of touring the western half of the United States in this little camper. Hoffman – I’ve been camping all my life. ■

FALL 2021 TRAILBLAZER 53

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Upgrade to Adventure Today! Check out our newest Reciprocal Program Only Available to Adventure Members • 100+ Campgrounds and Resorts 90 Day Advance Booking Window • 21 Day Stays • Park-to-Park Access Ask how you can camp all year long with our Thousand Trails Camping Pass! Our Thousand Trails Camping Pass is offered by MHC Thousand Trails Limited Partnership, Two North Riverside Plaza, Suite 800, Chicago, IL 60606. This is being used for the purpose of soliciting sales of resort campground memberships. This document has been filed with the Department of Licensing, State of Washington as required by Washington Law. Value, quality or conditions stated and performance on promises are the responsibility of the operator, not the Department. The filing does not mean the Department has approved the merits or qualifications of any registration, advertising, or any gift or item of value as part of any promotional plan. The Trails Collection Plus is a reciprocal use program operated by Encore Royalty Club, L.L.C. (“Encore”) that allows participating Thousand Trails Adventure members to use campsites and other facilities at the RV resorts affiliated with the program. Encore is an independent company and does not own any of the resorts affiliated with the program. Encore provides access to these resorts through agreement(s) between Encore and the owners of the resorts.

FALL 2021 TRAILBLAZER 55

ECH

ALL is not only a great time to travel, it’s also a great time to do a little thinking about what keeps your RV roadworthy and operating at its peak. Let’s take a quick look at some genset and fuel filter tips to help you keep your RV in tip-top travel shape. Let’s go!

FUEL FILTERS: As we travel the length and breadth of this beautiful country, RVers purchase fuel from many different sources, at all times of the day and night. From California to Colorado, New England to the Mississippi Valley, there’s as much variety in the quality of the fuel supply as there is in the scenery. Unfortunately, you can’t always predict what your fuel quality will be like, just based on the looks of the service station. Fuel can be contaminated with moisture, dirt, or even debris from rusty storage tanks. As a consumer, most of these fuel quality factors are completely beyond your control. This is where the humble fuel filter steps into the limelight; it’s an unsung but priceless part of any fuel system. All fuel that flows from your fuel tank to your RV’s engine travels through a fuel filter first. Whether you drive a gasoline or a diesel engine, contaminants can cause problems for your fuel injectors over time. The fuel filter is that silent sentinel that prevents potential problems by capturing these contaminants before they make their way to the fuel injectors in the first place. Fuel filters need to be checked and changed periodically and it’s an excellent idea to carry a spare fuel filter or two in your utility bin. How will you know if you’ve picked up a bad fuel supply that’s clogged your fuel filter? Usually, it’s pretty 56 TRAILBLAZER FALL 2021

OPICS

RVing is a great adventure and there’s always something new to learn! By Paul and Kerri Elders

obvious. If your engine seems to be acting sluggish, shows a loss of power, or isn’t performing as usual at higher speeds, this could be an indicator of a restricted fuel filter. Other clues are engine hesitation, rough idling, or engine stalling. Have a mechanic check and change the fuel filter at your next stop. GENERATOR TIPS: Whenever you’re on the road, your power generator (genset) is a powerful ally, allowing you to generate valuable kilowatts of electrical power from diesel or gasoline. But to keep that powerful friend running at its peak, you need to perform just a bit of preventive maintenance. Don’t worry. It’s not difficult work, but there are a few little tasks you need to remember to do, so your generator will be ready to run whenever you need it. First and foremost, resist the urge to store excess cargo items in the generator compartment. Adequate airflow is critical to the proper operation of a power generator, so you don’t want to block or obstruct air flow and you also don’t want items “banging around” in the compartment and into the generator while you’re driving down the highway or over bumpy roads. Stow cargo in cargo holds, not in the generator compartment! Perform a monthly check of your genset to keep it prepared for optimum service. Check the oil level and top off if necessary. Change the oil filter at the intervals recommended by your manufacturer, and take a periodic look at the hour gauge to assure that it’s recording your usage time properly. System tune-ups are usually based on hours of use, so you want to make sure that your gauge is accurately tracking the

actual operational hours of your generator. Check the exhaust system for damage or loose connections. Inspect the wiring for any nicks or cuts. Periodically examine the fuel system, checking for leaks or damaged hoses. And if you find any fuel leaks, for safety’s sake, don’t use the genset until you get them fixed! Check your Owner’s Manual for specific details on your model’s maintenance schedule. Even if you rarely use your genset, you should perform complete maintenance (oil filter, fuel filter, fuel line and exhaust inspections, etc.) on an annual basis, as per your manual’s instructions. Remember that your genset charges your house batteries, so you also want to make sure all batteries are in good working order. Check the battery terminals; make sure they’re tightly snugged and free of corrosion. If they need cleaning, use a toothbrush and a baking soda/water paste to clean them. Wipe clean, then apply a dab of Vaseline to protect against future corrosion. If your generator has started surging or chattering, or has become hard to start, a clogged fuel filter might be your problem. Sometimes, newly installed fuel filters need to be primed after installation and the steps required are beyond the scope of this article. Consult your Owner’s Manual for complete instructions or visit your local RV service center for assistance. If your generator has its own fuel supply, it’s a good idea to treat it with a fuel stabilizer like Sta-bil or one of the others on the market (just be sure to use the appropriate diesel treatment for diesel engines or gasoline stabilizer for a gas engine). HAPPY TRAILS, TRAILBLAZERS!

Check out more tips & tricks on TrailBlazerMagazine.net

By Jennifer La Follette Traveling and Camping with Companion Animals

ON THE ROAD

y partner and I have decided that after three years of full-time in our Airstream trailer, we are going to purchase a small home and begin to take trips via airplane. Being that we have two small dogs, weighing less than 20 lbs each, we know they will be able to join us on our excursions. Do you have any suggestions for airline travel given all of the new changes and updates? Also, any general tips would be appreciated. I remember years ago speaking with you at a campground. You were just headed to the airport with one of your dogs and shared valuable information about ticks with us in regards to hiking with our pets in the surrounding forest of Kentucky near Diamond Caverns. Thank you and be well, KC and Jack Edmonton Livingston, TX Hello, and thank you for reaching out! It’s been a number of years since I have traveled with my pets so I highly suggest checking with the airline you plan on traveling with for their specific travel requirements. Be certain that you have vaccination records on hand and that your pet is properly identified with up-to-date ID tag information. Take some time to familiarize your pet with spending short amounts of time enclosed in the selected, airline approved pet carrier. In doing so, the space will not seem as stressful. I do not suggest medicating your dog with Benadryl for the flight, nor do I recommend feeding breakfast the morning of in case they vomit due to motion sickness or stress. If your pet requires AM medication, I would administer that with the smallest amount of food possible and do it

early enough to have time to digest. Familiarize yourself with airport dog relief areas. Be sure that the bedding used in the pet carrier is a blanket or towel that your pets are familiar with. I kept a chew toy with my dog to relieve stress but was not something they could choke on or destroy too quickly. Choose a toy that doesn’t squeak to keep your neighbors happy! Select destinations with an optimal climate: altitude or the beach during the summer and pleasant sunshine or light snow in the winter.

Cry it out! Heck, wail if need be! It’s ok to not be ok. In sharing with others our sufferings, we often find that we are not alone. People have an amazing way of caring for each other if we are willing to be honest and vulnerable with our own truths. Holding in the grief of heartache is physically damaging. It’s ok to mourn the loss of a loved one, but remember we miss them because we love them! Love in itself is a gift that truly never ends. Be gracious with yourself and accept that even the pains of loss never fully subside. Animals do not make up our whole lives, but to them, we are their whole lives so make each day count. What a privilege it is to share it all together.

Hold on to the happy times! I started a journal that is specifically for my dog-related memories of happier moments: funny stories, special encounters, and epic adventures I don’t want to forget. When my heart is feeling overwhelmed, I grab the journal and jot down a couple heartwarming details that help me process goodness through the grief. I know that in years to come, I will be able to reread this journal with much consolation, even if it’s tethered to tears along with a smile.

ennifer, My family and I wanted to extend our deepest condolences to you on the loss of your beloved Boston Terrier, Gingerbread. We remember her fondly from over 10 years ago at the beautiful Thousand Trails location in Newport, Oregon. Our kids still talk about her charming personality and how friendly you were to share her witty tricks with us! We know that the time is coming to say goodbye to our furry friends. With your recent heartache, please share with us anything we can do to help sooth the pain of saying farewell to a fourlegged family member. With much care and friendship, The Harlow Family Isn’t it amazing how a campground membership and sweet neighbors can make for lasting friendships? I’m forever thankful for Thousand Trails! Receiving notes of condolence and encouragement such as this has helped make Ginger’s passing a little bit more tolerable. Over the years, two actions I have found that help soothe the pain of heartbreak which I will share in hopes to help another person in need are:

Love the ones you’re with, friends, and thank you for sharing your thoughts and questions with me! Jennifer

FALL 2021 TRAILBLAZER 57

INVITE YOUR

FRIENDS

YOU receive a $25 Visa® Virtual Reward when your friend purchases a Thousand Trails Camping Pass!

Your referral also enters YOU into our 2021 drawing for a chance to win these great prizes:

GRAND PRIZE SECOND PRIZE

7-Night Cruise or Trip to Hawaii ($4,000 value)

4 Nights in Las Vegas, San Francisco or Orlando ($2,000 value)

THIRD PRIZE Free Dues for 2022 10 Winners Selected (Up to $615 value)

or visit ThousandTrails.com *Details and qualifications for participation in this promotion may apply and are set forth on page 61 of this magazine. 58 TRAILBLAZER FALL 2021

W e ’ r e l o o k i n g f o r wa r d to a n ot h e r s e as o n o f f u n !

W e c an ’ t wa i t to ma k e more memor i es w i th you . S tart th i n k i ng a b out your ne x t c am p i ng tr i p w i th us ! W e ’ re p lann i ng for fun and h o p e to s e e yo u s o o n !

ThousandTrails.com FALL 2021 TRAILBLAZER 59

C r o s swo r d

Across

1 Exclamation 4 Both (pref.) 8 Sleeping 12 Romanian money 13 Leg ends 14 Wife of Ramachandra 15 Renegade 17 Hall (Ger.) 18 Horse armor 19 Passageway 20 Tree 22 In (Fr.) 24 Himalayan monkshood 25 Brief 29 Korean soldier 30 Mock 31 Amer. Automobile Assn. (abbr.) 32 Gibus (2 words) 34 Bird 35 Ecology (abbr.) 36 Music sign 37 Complain 60 TRAILBLAZER FALL 2021

40 Tie 41 U.S. dam 42 Against 46 Work (Sp.) 47 Hindu princess 48 Pasture 49 Legislature 50 Chief 51 Move back

Down

1 To be announced (abbr.) 2 Exhaust 3 Nodal 4 Amer. Federation of Television and Radio Artists (abbr.) 5 Hoover Dam lake 6 Gamble 7 Mineral (suf.) 8 Birthplace of St. Francis 9 Angle 10 And other: abbr. (2 words) (Lat.) 11 Valley

16 Back talk 19 Quality (suf.) 20 Pressure (pref.) 21 Over 22 Aluminum-copper alloy 23 Accountant (abbr.) 25 Hamite people of Eth. 26 Water pipe 27 Basse-Normandie city 28 Pueblo Indian 30 Mug 33 Echo 34 Occident 36 Devil 37 Welfare 38 Islamic month 39 Your (Ger.) 40 Moon (pref.) 42 Limb 43 Sheep’s cry 44 Beak 45 Prate

SUDO K U

Answers can be found on page 67.

F i n d Th e Evergreen Tree An evergreen tree is hidden somewhere in this issue. Send us a postcard telling us where you found it, and if your card is drawn you’ll win a $25 Virtual Visa® Reward Card.

Cheryl Swift Mesa, AZ Found the tree on Page 43 of the Summer Issue 2021.

Did you find the tree in this issue? Send your entry (postcards only) to: TrailBlazer Evergreen Tree Two North Riverside Plaza Suite 800, Chicago, IL 60606. Postmark deadline is December 1st, 2021 Please include an email address on the post card to be considered. The Virtual Visa® Reward Card will be sent via email to the email address provided. The Virtual Visa® Reward Card will come from reward@virtualrewardcenter.com. The Virtual Visa® Reward Card can be used to buy what you want, when you want it. Because it is so flexible and convenient, the Virtual Visa® Reward makes it easy to treat yourself to something special or to help cover your everyday expenses. The decision is yours. The virtual reward is issued by Sutton Bank, member FDIC, pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. and can be used wherever Visa Debit cards are accepted. Terms and conditions apply. Your Virtual Visa® Reward Card may not be used outside of the U.S. and District of Columbia, nor may it be used with merchants located outside of the U.S. and District of Columbia for online, mail or telephone orders. Any purchases made with the Virtual Visa® Reward Card must only be in U.S. currency.

Terms and Conditions for 2021 Referral Promotion from page 58. For each Eligible Referral (as defined) through December 31, 2021, you will receive a $25 Virtual Visa® Reward Card. In addition, for each Eligible Referral through December 31, 2021, you will receive one entry in a drawing for the following prizes: (i) Grand Prize is either a trip to Hawaii or a 7 night Caribbean Cruise, valued at $4,000, that includes round trip coach airfare for two adults from the continental United States to either Hawaii or Florida, and one hotel/cruise room for 7 nights; (ii) Second Prize is a trip to either Las Vegas, San Francisco or Orlando, valued at $2,000, that includes round trip coach airfare for two adults from the continental United States to either Las Vegas, San Francisco or Orlando and one hotel room for 4 nights and (iii) ten (10) Third Prizes waiving payment of the winners’ annual dues for 2022, not to exceed $615 each. The trips do not include taxes, meals, beverages, transfers, gratuities, activities and other personal expenses. Prizes cannot be exchanged for cash. The drawing will be held at our corporate offices on or about January 7, 2022. The winners will be notified by telephone. The odds of winning a prize depend on the number of entries and are not expected to exceed 1:10,000. For this promotion, an Eligible Referral is a person who (i) purchases a new Zone Camping Pass from us between January 1, 2021 and December 31, 2021 and (ii) lists you as the referring member. This offer is only for members in good standing of Thousand Trails and its affiliates. Due to legal restrictions, (a) residents of AZ, FL, NV, and PA are not eligible to participate in the drawing and you will not receive an entry in the drawing for purchases made by residents of AZ, FL, NV, or PA, and (b) residents of AZ and PA are not eligible to receive a $25 Virtual Visa® Reward Card and you will not receive a $125 Virtual Visa® Reward Card for purchases made by residents of AZ or PA. We reserve the right to extend, modify, suspend, or terminate this promotion at any time for any reason; however, any rewards earned prior to the suspension or termination of this promotion will be honored. Employees of MHC Property Management, L.P. and its affiliates are not eligible to participate in this promotion. All local, state and federal income taxes are the responsibility of the recipient. Accordingly, we recommend that all participants consult a tax advisor about reporting rewards for tax purposes. We will issue the required 1099 to each participant and to the IRS when the total value of awards you are eligible to receive equal or exceed $600 for one year. This advertising is being used for the purpose of soliciting sales of resort campground memberships. This document has been filed with the Department of Licensing, State of Washington, as required by Washington law. Value, quality, or conditions stated and performance on promises are the responsibility of the operator, not the Department. This filing does not mean that the Department has approved the merits or qualifications of any registration, advertising, or any gift, prize, or item of value as part of any promotional plan. This promotion is sponsored by MHC Thousand Trails Limited Partnership, Two North Riverside Plaza, Suite 800, Chicago, IL 60606. FALL 2021 TRAILBLAZER 61

WHY BE THERE?

When you could be here... By Joan Rykal

Whether its for a short trip to remind yourself what warm sun feels like, or an extended stay until Old Man Winter goes back into hibernation, there are plenty of choices to Winter Differently where the only shovel you’ll need is for building sandcastles and the only gloves to bring are for catching balls at a Spring Training game.

62 TRAILBLAZER FALL 2021

ARIZONA If you’re more particular to baseball gloves than winter gloves, be aware that Major League Baseball’s Spring Training in Arizona is a big deal. Fifteen MLB teams make their spring training home in and

around the Phoenix metro area and Cactus League games run from late February through late March. When there’s no game to catch, the area offers hiking opportunities at Camelback Mountain, Papago Park and the Sonoran Desert. Other ways to enjoy the Sonoran Desert include off-road Jeep tours and on horseback. Encore has 7 resorts in the Phoenix Metro

area as well as resorts in Yuma and Tucson – two other very popular Arizona winter destinations. FLORIDA If you’re heading to Florida, luckily Encore Resorts has more than 30 locations in the Sunshine State that lets you explore this sunny winter destination from coast to coast and in between. On the Gulf side, start north in Tampa and travel south to Fort Myers enjoying the gulf breezes and warm winter days. Atlantic coast options run along AIA starting north all the way down south to the Keys. Inland options include the Orlando/Kissimmee area. As for what you can do in the winter in Florida besides soak up the sun, there are more options than you can shake a snow shovel at! The Keys offer snorkeling, deep-sea fishing and kayak and canoe adventures while the Atlantic side attractions include the historic city of St. Augustine, the Space Coast, which is home to the Kennedy Space Center, and beach town fun including Daytona, Ft. Lauderdale, Vero Beach and Miami. The Orlando/

Kissimmee area of course has all the theme park attractions, but also non-theme park attractions that include the Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens, Gatorland and airboat rides in the Florida Everglades. TEXAS At the southernmost tip of Texas sits the Rio Grande Valley, which is rich in history and culture and boasts plenty of sunny winter days. The weather is warm, with an average winter temperature of 74 degrees and visitors can enjoy a variety of things to see and do, both indoors and out. Ten Encore RV Resorts are sprinkled throughout the area so you can choose the resort that suits you to a tee. Speaking of tees, the Valley is home to some of the best public courses in the country. If you’re looking for a beach-themed winter, not to worry, as the sands of South Padre Island are about an hour’s drive away. Check out South Padre’s Sandcastle Trail or take some lessons from a pro on how to build the best sandcastle. The Rio Grande Valley is also great for bird watchers.

Meridian RV Resort, AZ

Crystal Isles, FL

Victoria Palms, TX

Now that you know there’s so many options to Winter Differently, don’t you just feel that winter weight

melting off! Don’t wait another minute – make your reservations to Winter Differently now and visit

FALL 2021 TRAILBLAZER 63

PREFERRED RV DEALERS Check out member specials on parts, service, and sales by visiting our preferred RV Dealer partners listed here.

USA A&L RV Sales GA - Lake Park TN - Christiana, Columbia, Johnson City, Seveirville VA - Richmond alrvsales.com A Great Outdoor RV Center TX - Canton agorv.com Affinity RV AZ - Dewey, Prescott, Prescott Valley affinityrv.com All Valley RV Center CA - Acton allvalleyrvcenter.com Alpin Haus NJ - Oak Ridge NY - Amsterdam, Port Jervis, Saratoga alpinhaus.com American Family RV VA - Chesapeake, Salem americanfamilyrv.com Bama RV AL - Dothan bamarv.com Baydo’s RV of Chehalis WA - Chehalis baydosrvs.com Big Country RV OR - Bend, Redmond bigcrv.com Blade Chevrolet RV WA - Mt. Vernon bladerv.com Braun’s Fun Time Campers IN - Indianapolis funtimecampers.com Browns RV SC - McBee brownsrvsuperstore.com Camperland Trailer Sales TX - Conroe camperland.net Campers Inn AL - Madison CT - Union FL - Jacksonville, Leesburg, Jacksonville, Ocala, North Jacksonville, Saint Augustine GA - Acworth, Atlanta, Macon, Richmond Hill IA - Davenport 64 TRAILBLAZER FALL 2021

Campers Inn continued IL - Naperville KY - Louisville MA - Raynham, Tyngsboro NC - Kings Mountain, Mocksville, Raleigh ND - Bismark, Minot NH - Kingston, Merrimack PA - Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, SC - Charleston, Conway, Myrtle Beach VA - Fredericksburg campersinn.com Canopy Country RV Center WA - Ellensburg, Union Gap canopycountry.com Charlie Obaugh RV VA - Staunton charlieobaughrv.com Chesaco RV MD - Joppa, Frederick, Gambrills PA - Shoemakersville chesacorv.com Clear Creek RV WA - Sequim, Silverdale, Puyallup clearcreekrvcenter.com Cleveland RV GA - Cleveland • clevelandrvsales.com Coastal RV VA - Carrolton • coastalrv.com Conejo Wholesale Auto and RV CA - Thousand Oaks conejowholesaleauto.com Country Camping Corner NC - Kings Mountain • countrycamping.com Crossroads Trailers NJ - Newfield • crossroadstrailers.com Economy RVs MD - Mechanicsville • economyrvs.com Ellis Travel Trailers GA - Statesboro • ellistraveltrailers.com ET Quality RV CA - Two locations in Yuba City etqualityrv.com Funtime RV OR - Tualatin • funtimervinc.com Gerzeny’s RV World FL - Bradenton, Nokomis gerzenysrvworld.com Gloucester RV Sales & Service VA - Hayes • gloucesterrv.net Grand View Trailers Sales VA - Bedford • grandviewtrailersales.com

Halterman’s RV WA - Arlington, Burlington haltermansrv.com Hayden’s RVs VA - Richmond • haydensrvs.net Haylett RV MI - Coldwater • haylettautoandrv.com Hitch RV DE - Milford NJ - Berlin SC - Cloumbia PA - Boyertown hitchrv.com Indian Valley Camper Center PA - Souderton • ivccrv.com Jeff’s Couch’s RV Nation OH - Hamilton • couchsrvnation.com Johnson RV OR - Sandy WA - Fife • johnsonrv.com Keystone RV Center PA - Greencastle • keystonervcenter.com La Mesa RV AZ - W. Phoenix CA - Sacramento, San Diego FL - Ft. Myers, Orlando, Port St. Lucie lamesarv.com Lakeside RV Sales SC - Anderson • lakesidervsales.com Lazydays RV AZ - Mesa, Tucson CO - Denver, Loveland FL - Tampa, Ocala IN - Chicagoland, Elkhart MN - Minneapolis NV - Reno OR - Portland TN - Airstream of Knoxville, Knoxville, Nashville WA - Vancouver WI - Milwaukee • lazydays.com Lee’s Country RV IN - Batesville Marjon RV CA - Moreno Valley • marjonrvs.com Mike Thompson RV Superstores CA - Cathedral City, Colton, Fountain Valley, Santa Fe Springs mikethompson.com Mount Comfort RV IN - Greenfield • mountcomfortrv.com

CANADA

Opelika RV Center AL - Opelika • opelikarv.com Open Road RV Center WA - Arlington, Monroe openroadrvcenter.com Out of Doors Mart NC - Colfax • outofdoorsmart.com Patterson RV TX - Wichita Falls • pattersonrv.com PPL Motorhomes TX - Cleburne, Houston, New Braunfels pplmotorhomes.com Princess Craft RV TX - Round Rock • princesscraft.com Recreation Plantation RV Sales IL - Lynwood recreationplantationrvsales.com Rec Van CA - Fremont www.recvan.com Roadhouse Camper & RV PA - Lake Ariel, Scranton roadhousecamper.com Roy Robinson RV WA - Marysville • royrobinsonrv.com RV City AZ - Huachuca City • rvcity.net RV Country AZ - Flagstaff, Lakeside, Mesa, Showlow CA - Fresno NV - Laughlin NV - Sparks OR - Coburg WA - Buckley, Fife, Mt. Vernon, Bonney Lake RV Source TX - Bryan • rvsource.com RVs Northwest WA - Spokane • rvsnorthwest.com RV Value Mart PA - Bath, Lititz, Manheim, Willow Street rvvaluemart.com San Angelo RV TX - San Angelo • sanangelorvs.com Scott Motor Coach RV Center NJ - Lakewood • scottmotorcoach.com Scenic View RV Superstore VA - West Point • scenicviewrv.net See Grins RV CA - Gilroy • seegrinsrv.com Seguin RV TX - Seguin • seguinrv.com

Sky River RV CA - Paso Robles, Pismo Beach,Atascadero skyriverrv.com Snyder’s RV VA - Virginia Beach • snydersrv.com Strickland Marine & RV SC - Seneca • stricklandmarineandrv.com Stoltzfus RV’s & Marine PA - West Chester • stoltzfus-rec.com Sundown RV Center CA - Atwater • sundownrv.com Super Deals RV Inc. GA - Temple • superdealsrv.com TAC RV NC - Moyock • tactrailerandrv.com Tonie’s RV VA - Salem • toniesrv.com Toscano RV CA - Los Banos • toscanorv.com Vancouver RV & Park Model Center WA - Vancouver • vancouverrv.com Vogt RV TX - Airstream of Dallas Fourth Worth Two other D.F.W. Vogt locations vogtrv.com Waterdog RV OR - Dayton • waterdogrv.com Wisconsin RV World WI - DeForest • wisconsinrvworld.com Wilder RV WA - Port Angeles • wilderrvs.com

Action VR QC - Saint-Nicolas • actionvr.ca Camp Out RV ON - Stratford • campoutrv.com Canadream AB - Calgary BC - Vancouver ON - Toronto NS - Halifax QC - Montreal YT - Whitehorse canadream.com GO VR QC - Ange-Gardien • go-vr.com Horizon Lussier QC - Maryville • horizonlussier.com JCS Entreposage QC - Trois Rivières • entreposagejcs.com Kustom Koach RV Centre BC - Aldergrove • kustomkoachrv.com Lardner’s Trailer Sales SK - Saskatoon • lardners.com Le Centre du Vr Victoriaville QC - Saint-Albert • vrvictoriaville.com Leisure Days RV ON - Aylmer, Kingston, Pembroke, Smiths Falls, Sudbury QC - Buckingham, Gatineau, Sherbrooke NB - Salisbury NS - Truro leisuredays.ca Leisure Trailer Sales ON - Tecumseh • leisuretrailers.com O’Connor RV BC - Chilliwack • oconnorrv.com Ottawa Camping Trailers ON - Ottawa • ottawacamping.ca Roulottes AS Levesque QC - Châteauguay, Saguenay, Sainte-Hélène, Trois-Rivières roulotte.ca Roulottes Remillard QC - Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu roulottesremillard.com Véhicules Récréatifs JD QC - Sherbrooke • vrjdrv.ca VR Depot QC - Marieville, Vaudreuil-Dorion vrdepot.ca VR Emond Plus QC - Sainte-Nicolas • vremondplus.com VR Prestige QC - Terrebonne • vrprestige.com VR Souliere QC - Lanoraie, Lavaltrie vrsouliere.com FALL 2021 TRAILBLAZER 65

Crossword can be found on 60.

Did you know that Thousand Trails members receive discounts on popular brands? Visit our Member Benefits page and check out our exclusive partner deals!

66 TRAILBLAZER FALL 2021

Sudoku can be found on 61.

Branching Out... Seeking a Safer Tomorrow

Help the Manatees, Adopt One Today!

Are you a Photographer or an aspiring Photographer? Submit your high quality photos about your stay at one of our Thousand Trails Properties for a chance to be featured in TrailBlazer and our Social Media Pages! Submit your work to tbeditor@equitylifestyle.com Please submit photos with a short description about your stay. Must be a Thousand Trails Member in order to be considered to be featured.

FALL 2021 TRAILBLAZER 67

Wherever the road takes you, We’re there for you! 800-679-2020 www.skymed.com

TrailBlazer Magazine - Fall 2021

Articles inside

I Knew I was A TrailBlazer The Day Family

On the Road with Greensky Bluegrass

In the Kitchen Roasted Chicken with Butternut Squash

Message from Marguerite

Best Beaches to Explore this Winter

Pictures from the Park

Tech Topics