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Table of Contents Click on any of the areas on the map above or pages below and the link will take you directly to that page.
Ohio - Ghostly Manor Activities Florida - Wild Airboats/Safari Up Close - From the Editor
P. 2 Western States P.12 P. 3 P. 5 Northeastern States P.24
At the Park When It’s Hot! P. 6 Kandy Derden / Things to Do Editor New Product Reviews P. 7 On A Budget P. 8 Sheeree Oney/ Places to Go Editor People to See - Cheyenne Frontier Days P. 9 Lisa Garcia/ People to See Editor National Kids to Park Day P.10
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Southeastern States P.37 Midcentral States P.47 MideasternStates ShowM3 Snakes Show
P.63 P.72
The Weekender Extended Magazine is Published Monthly by BarnettPRO Publishing Corp. 15 East Main St., Shiloh, OH P.O. Box 96, Shiloh, OH 44878 Branch office: 1515 W. 3rd, Sedalia, Mo 65301 PHONE; 419-687-0002 Email: info@barnettpro.com Publisher - Michael D. Arnold mike@barnettpro.com Editor-in-chief- Kathy Barnett kathy@barnettpro.com Places to Go Editor: Sheeree Oney Places to Go Team: Rebecca Embry Samantha Bradley Kelley Ramsey Things to Do Editor: Kandy Derden Things to Do Team: Geremy Sowash Lisa Brant Jake McFarlin People to See Editor: Lisa Garcia People to See Team: Bethany Cantrell Angie Offenburger editor@weekenderextended.com Technical Director - Norman Reed Norm@weekenderextended.com Social Media Editor: Geremy Sowash Visit our Website for event coverage between regular issues at www.WeekenderExtended.com Subscriptions are FREE! Submit name and email address HERE and also be entered in our drawing for a FREE weekend getaway! Copyright 2020 by BarnettPRO Publishing All rights reserved. Reproductions of any material from this issue is expressly forbidden without permission of the publisher. Advertisements in this publication do not necessarily carry the endorsement of the publishing company.
Cover Photo:
Ride through at your leisure through the African Wildlife Safari Park in Port Clinton, Ohio with a discount from Wendy’s. See page 61 for details.
Up Close: From the Editor
Some of my first memories as a child are from adventures that took place in a park. There was actually a park in my own back yard. My dad built a sandbox with triangle seats on each corner. Then he erected a brand new swingset that had a slide, teeter-totter AND a jungle-gym on one side. I learned to do all sorts of acrobatic stunts on that jungle-gym. That is, until I fell and knocked the wind out of myself. From that point, I stuck to the three-step slide. At the local park, my favorite contraption was a gate on a post. It swung around and around like a merry-goround while the rider stood on a wooden platform at the foot and held on to a railing hinged right below the top edge. I couldn’t ride it enough. I never tired of that red wooden swing and secretly wished I had one at home in my backyard park. I played in the snow on my eighth birthday. Why is that so special? My birthday is in August. We were on a family vacation in the mountains of Colorado. If I remember correctly and with the help of a Google map, I believe it was in the Rocky Mountain National Park. The very first theme park I attended was Frontier Town in Oklahoma City. It was my first encounter with a real Indian dance, all dressed in authentic warrier clothing.Again, the experience was during a family road trip. This issue pays tribute to all the parks in the U.S., regardless how large or how small. Let’s go make new memories...
Kathy Barnett Editor-in-Chief
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Column-Things to Do:
By Kandy Derden Things to Do Editor
At the Park - When It’s Hot! Years ago, decades ago, eons ago . . . okay, let’s just say ‘in the last century’ it was unusual to find drinking glasses with lids. The same could be said for pitchers. Now it is not so uncommon. In fact, it is rare to see anyone without a thermal glass or at the least, bottled water. As a child, we attended a lot of picnics, lunches, family reunions and many other occasions which required cooking and eating outdoors. Some were at church, a few were in Grandma’s yard, a lot were in the country, but most were in the park. We enjoyed the swings, slides and teeter-totter (more commonly known as a seesaw). There was a huge sand pit and a lagoon for fishing. Yes, there were a lot of different things to do in an effort to have something different for everybody. The one thing these events all seemed to have in common, was a lacking supply of something to drink. Oh, we had drink coolers, but they ran dry rather quickly with so many people present. There was an abundance of food because everyone brought their best and some of these items were so popular, they became tradition. So why didn’t more people bring beverages? Perhaps it was the lack of recipes. Or maybe there were no containers suitable for transporting it. Imagine how things changed -6- | WEEKENDEREXTENDED.COM ~ May, 2021
when someone came up with the idea of a pitcher with a lid. Admittedly, most of them leaked, but it was a good idea in theory. There are now several companies which manufacture sealable, non-leaking beverage containers. This gives us all sorts of opportunities to create delicious punch recipes. The following isn’t necessarily considered punch, but it is a delicious and refreshing variation of iced tea which will be well-received at any social gathering, especially those occurring outdoors . . . in the summer . . . in the park . . . when it’s HOT!
PEACH ICED TEA 3 cans (11.5 oz each) peach nectar 8 c. prepared unsweet tea 1 c. sugar or to taste ¼ c. fresh lemon juice Stir, chill and serve. Who wouldn’t want a tall glass of this after playing tag, softball, touch football, horseshoes or any of the usual games associated with group picnics? As for me, I’m not waiting. I’m going to make some now. You know, to practice, just to make sure it is good enough to serve. In other words, because I want some. Besides, what better excuse to use my new pitcher?
Product Review: Items for Travel Hotels By Day App HotelsByDay web-app enhances hotel experiences with daytime inventory of rooms and amenity passes sold in time bands of three to 12+ hours. Daytime bedrooms, meeting rooms, coworking desks, pool passes, cabanas, gym passes, and parking passes are some of the options that are available to purchase through the web-app. Instead of being stuck with the standard check-in and check-out hours of 3pm and 11am, HotelsByDay provides the flexibility of booking during off hotel hours such as daytime hours of 7am-7pm. The app even allows people to sort between credit-card required and “book now, pay later” options to help meet guests’ needs. Use it for a few hours to rest after a long flight, a daycation with family by the pool, or a break between miles and miles of a roadtrip. The rates are discounted from night rates by 50% or more. Download the app visit: www.HotelsByDay. com
HearHere Want to take a road trip with actor and Oscar-winning director, Kevin Costner? His latest project is filming for an app called HearHere which uses GPS-enabled audio clips to add history, culture, and context to your own road trip. It is a subscription-based app that gives informational tidbits about surroundings based on personal interests. https://hearhere.com May, 2021 ~ WEEKENDEREXTENDED.COM | -7-
Places to Go:
On a Budget
By Sheeree Oney Places to Go Editor
CONEJO VALLEY
Visit Conejo Valley is offering qualifying visitors a $100 travel Visa gift card upon hotel checkin at one of the 16 participating hotels in Agoura Hills and Thousand Oaks, California. Visitors must travel between now and June 30, 2021 by booking a minimum two-night stay. The Visa gift card cannot be used toward your hotel stay and this limited promotion is honored on a first come, first serve sign-up basis. Participants must register for the program using the link at right. Attractions in Conegjo Valley are the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum, Gardens of the World, The Conejo Valley Botanic Garden, Stagecoach Inn Museum and entertainment at the Bank of America Performing Arts Center.
Take a trip to Sprinfield, MO between now and June 27, 2021 and get a night on the Springfield CVB! Visit at least three attractions, three food and drink establishments from the list of participating businesses, and stay at least two nights in a participating hotel, and the CVB will pick up the bill for one of your nights! This offer is valid for trips taken between now and June 27, 2021. Other restrictions apply. See the list of participating hotels and businesses and learn more about the program by visiting SpringfieldMO.org/Night-On-Us
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People to See:
By Lisa Garcia People to See Editor
at Cheyenne Frontier Days Live entertainment opportunities are finally popping up on the calendar across the nation! The Cheyenne Frontier Days in Wyoming is already selling out on some of the performers scheduled. So don’t wait any longer to reserve your seat when The Professional Bull Riders (PBR) will return with its exclusive Last Cowboy Standing series July 26 & 27, and the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) Rodeo (July 24 - August 1) will return to the arena in 2021. The 125th Cheyenne Frontier Days™ celebration is dedicated to the legendary Chris LeDoux. We are proud to honor Chris LeDoux and his ties to the rodeo and music worlds and his place in Cheyenne Frontier Days™ history. A bronze statue will be added to the sculpture collection on Frontier Park and a dedication will take place on July 23. There will be hundreds of vendors, a full carnival, artists, food, and music that celebrate the history and culture of the American West. Concert ticket prices range from $49 – $94, rooftop starts at $150. Daily rodeo tickets range from $18 – $35. A $3 discount is offered on rodeo tickets and $5 discount on concert tickets purchased before July 1. PBR tickets range from $25 – $105 with special Elite Seating and V.I.P. tickets also available at various prices. Tickets are available at www.cfdrodeo.com, and by calling (307) 778-7222.
Eric Church
Blake Shelton
For a full events schedule and profiles of musical acts, go to www.cfdrodeo.com. 2021 Cheyenne Frontier Days™ Entertainment Schedule July 23: Garth Brooks with Ned LeDoux July 24: Thomas Rhett with Rhett Akins July 25: Cody Johnson with Aaron Watson July 26-27: Professional Bull Riders – Last Cowboy Standing July 28: Maren Morris with TBA July 29: Eric Church with Ashley McBryde July 30: Kane Brown with Restless Road July 31: Blake Shelton with John King July 24–Aug. 1: PRCA Rodeo Action
Maren Morris
Blake Shelton May, 2021 ~ WEEKENDEREXTENDED.COM | -9-
Go, Do, S
Natio Save the date! The 11th Annual Kids to Parks Day is on May 15, 2021 Kids to Parks Day is a national day of outdoor play celebrated annually on the third Saturday of May. The day connects kids and families with their local, state, and national parks and public lands through thousands of park events that promote discovery and exploration in the great outdoors. COVID-19 has impacted everyone and has limited our ability to interact with our beloved national, local, and state parks. With this in mind, this year, the Park Trust will not be promoting “special” park events but instead encouraging people nationwide to celebrate the day at local parks and public lands with their household groups or established covid “bubbles”, focusing on close-to-home outdoor spaces and experiences. A free ParkPassport mobile app is the perfect companion for outdoor adventure and provides easy access to hundreds of parks across the country, including local, state, and national parks, and national marine sanctuaries and marine national monuments. Through the app, experience parks in-person and earn a variety of digital badges or discover parks virtually and earn virtual visit badges. Share photos and your adventures, connect with friends, view live webcams from parks around the country, or even open Junior Ranger Booklets right from the palm of your hand. Let our digital guide help you track however you visit a park. https://parktrust.org/kids-to-parks-day/
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See:
onal Kids to Parks Day!
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Go, Do, See
Glacier Bay National Park Adventure
A
dventure and discovery are at the heart of the 76-guest Wilderness Discoverer. Loaded with amenities and a lounge evoking the feel of a National Park lodge or neighborhood pub, this expedition vessel, from top to bottom, exudes the spirit of exploration. UnCruise defines adventure. Explore playgrounds that offer the richest, wildest connections by hike, paddle, and with locals. Places so tucked away that the cozy boats--with just 22-86 guests--fit in just right. Your kayak is your seat and the still waters, the stage. From May 23-30, begin your shore excursion in Juneau. Set sail for a week of scenic channels and secluded wilderness. On day 2, view the Fjord cliffs that reach skyward and create a background for the harbor seals and their pups lounging on chunks of ice. Tracy Arm delivers with the cotton-candy blue twin Sawyer Glaciers of its furthest reaches. Enjoy the numerous waterfalls along your path. Day 3 is a visit to the Five Fingers Lighthouse and the Brothers Islands. -12- | WEEKENDEREXTENDED.COM ~ May, 2021
From kelp-lined channels to hemlock and spruce forests, every inch of this far northwest corner is worth exploring. Glacier Bay is the crown jewel of America’s national parks which covers 3.3 million acres. On this cruis, you will have two days to explore parts the most others never go to. Taylor Bay sea stacks and rocky shores make for good adventure. Or hike the outwash field of glaciers winding down the Fairweather Mountain Range. Fares are inclusive of excursions, adventure equipment, transfers, baggage handling, and yes, all food and beverages (alcohol too). Truly no hidden costs. Unrushed. Uncrowded. Unbelievable. For more information, a complete itinerary, or to make reservations, visit https://www.virtuoso.com/cruises/sailings/16078583/glacier-bay-national-park-adventurecruise-23may2021-30may2021#.YHA9FehKjIU
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Go, Do, See
Lost Dutchman State Park
The legend of the Lost Dutchman’s Gold Mine centers around the Superstition Mountains located east of Phoenix. This state park was named after Jacob Waltz, known as “The Lost Dutchman.” According to the legend, a German immigrant named Jacob Waltz discovered a mother lode of gold in the Superstition Wilderness and revealed its location on his deathbed in Phoenix in 1891 to Julia Thomas, a boarding-house owner who had taken care of him for many years. Several mines have been claimed to be the actual
mine that Waltz discovered, but none of those claims have been verified. The legends and lore of the Superstition Mountains can be experienced at the Superstition Mountain Museum on the Apache Trail where artifacts of the Lost Dutchman are on display. Summer hours are 9-3 Thursday through Sunday. Some Apaches believe that the hole leading down into the lower world is located in the Superstition Mountains. Winds blowing from the hole are supposed to be the cause of severe dust storms in the metropolitan region.
This area is a popular hiking area. Afternoon temperatures from June to September are usually in the range of 100 to 115°F near the mountain. Day hikers often frequent the mountain during cooler months. The Lost Dutchman State Park is located on the western side of the mountain and includes hiking trails to notable formations such as the Praying Hands and the Flatiron. The Peralta Trail, on the southern side of the mountain, traverses Fremont Saddle and descends into the wilderness to the east of the mountain. Plan to stay at one of the 134 campsites with picnic tables, barbeque grills and fire pits. >MORE
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Go, Do, See:
Sequoia & Kings Canyon Natl. Parks
The state of California is home to nine If seeking adventure on your next extended weekend getaway, there are multiple experiences in Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks. See the biggest tree in the world. Explore the deep canyons. Enjoy the view from Panoramic Point. In the park’s northwest corner, drive along a narrow road from Grant Grove to a commanding perspective of the Sierra Nevada atop 7,520-foot Panoramic Point. A short, paved trail leads to this overlook, which lives up to its name with sweeping views of Kings Canyon and Hume Lake. For a longer trek, hike along a 2.5-mile trail from the point to the still-operational Park Ridge Fire Lookout. Have fun camping in a mountain forest to get the full benefit of nature at its best. Lodgepole Campground offers 214 sites at an elevation of 6,700 feet It is located just two miles from the Giant Forest on the banks of the scenic and lengthy Marble Fork of the -14- | WEEKENDEREXTENDED.COM ~ May, 2021
Kaweah River Keep it car-free by taking a free summer shuttle that stops in the campground. And learn more about the park during ranger programs at Lodgepole’s amphitheater. An amazing underworld awaits park visitors at Crystal Cave. You wouldn’t think much could compare to the giant trees and spectacular mountain views. But on tours with the Sequoia Parks Conservancy, you’ll enter subterranean chambers where delicate stalactites hang from the ceiling like stone icicles. For the ultimate adventure, crawl through narrow passages as you venture deep into the cavern on the Wild Cave Tour. The majestic granite dome Moro Rock is Sequoia National Park’s counterpart to Yosemite’s iconic Half Dome. But while Half Dome demands a daunting 16-mile round trip, a more manageable 350-step stairway leads to
Moro Rock’s 6,725-foot apex. Once you’ve made it, savor amazing views that stretch from the San Joaquin Valley to the snowcapped peaks of the Great Western Divide. Try your hand at catch and release fly fishing in the region’s trout-filled creeks and rivers. Local outfitters like Sierra Fly Fisher provide gear and expert instruction for all levels, ask about special family lessons and trips. Design your own tour with a personal naturalist guide, available through the Sequoia Field Institute, shedding light on the region’s remarkable ecology. To get off the grid and get far beyond the parks’ more popular destinations, consider booking a multi-day pack trip. Horses or mules carry the gear and guides prepare meals. It is a pretty awesome way to explore the back-country and a great choice for families. For more information on these parks, visit here.
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Places to Go:
Royal Gorge Bridge & Park With so many adventurous opportunities here, journey into the past and explore the roots of the Bridge and Gorge. Home to the highest suspension bridge in America, 90% of the 360-acre park was destroyed by a forest fire in 2013. Demolition and rebuilding of the park immediately began. Within 14 months a new park was offered to eager guests with the brand new 14,500 square feet visitors center, landscaping, and Poma-Leitner Gondolas. In just a few months more attractions and additions were added such as America’s highest zip line, the Cloudscraper, and Tommy Knockerland, the children’s playland, complete with carousel. Be sure to visit the Plaza Theater. Grab a seat and enjoy a mini-documentary all about the awe-inspiring history, fun facts, drama, and scenery surrounding the Park. In between shows, make sure to check out the Historical Expo and view original artifacts and historic photos that illustrate the tale of the Royal Gorge Railroad War and the brave men who began construction of the Bridge back in 1929. Between Memorial and Labor Day weekends, you can also catch The Nature’s Educators Birds of Prey show! You can look forward to meeting Juno, one of the organization’s eagle ambassadors. Four shows run daily at the top of every hour starting from 1 to 4 p.m. Each show is twenty minutes long. Enjoy this performance free with your general admission ticket. Nearby is a unique lodging experience available from
Echo Canyon River Expeditions. Just in time for whitewater rafting season, the popular glamping tents at Royal Gorge Cabins just opened. Amenities include toiletries, linens and comfortable furniture. They have been so popular since opening that more have been added. The original four tents feature one queen bed while the others are slightly larger with two queen beds. There is also a full-service restaurant and bar, event space, luxury cabins and campsites in addition to the tents. The resort is located within minutes of the Arkansas River and the Royal Gorge Bridge & Park and other attractions such as the Royal Gorge Route Railroad and historic Cañon City as well as adventures such as fly fishing and backcountry Jeep tours. Located just five miles from the Royal Gorge Bridge & Park and close to many other historic and natural attractions, the resort was named one of the top adventure resorts in the country. Echo Canyon River Expeditions offers an array of whitewater rafting and float trips on the Arkansas River. Reservations for the cabins and glamping tents can be made online or by calling 1-800-748-2953. More information about rafting trips can be found online or by calling 1-800-755-3246.
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The town of Island Park, Idaho is about 20 minutes from the west entrance of Yellowstone National Park and is known for its long Main Street (the longest in America!), large caldera, and year-round outdoor recreation. There is a uniquely unspoiled aspect to Island Park’s natural areas. The town acts as a gateway for adventure, offering easy access to places like Henry’s Lake and Harriman State Park. As you get more into the national park, top highlights of Yellowstone in the western portions include the Lower Geyser Basin, Old Faithful Geyser and Upper Basin, and Norris Geyser Basin. Another Island Park-area destination is Harriman State Park, which used to be owned by Union Pacific Railroad investors and served as a cattle ranch and private family retreat. It is about 28 miles south of West Yellowstone, Montana. The park is within a 16,000-acre wildlife refuge and has 22 miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. This is also a great place for fly fishing. There are multiple options for overnight accommodations at the park, including a bunkhouse, group dormitory, fully furnished log home, three-bedroom cabin, and yurts. Visit this park in the winter to explore the 24-miles of groomed trails for skate skiing, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and fat-tire biking. In this same area of Idaho is Henrys Lake State Park, which is home to a high mountain lake and is a fisherman’s dream. Cutthroat, brook, and cut-bow hybrid trout are caught by anglers here on the 6,000acre lake. This park is about 15 miles west of Yellowstone National Park. It has 83 serviced campsites, three cabins, and three ADA campsites for overnight stays. -16- | WEEKENDEREXTENDED.COM ~ May, 2021
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Go, Do, See
Our 1st National Park
Hiking adventures have continued to stay at the top of the vacation planning list since it is considered a safe, social distancing, outdoor activity. In 2011, Jake Bramante became the first person to hike all 734 miles of trail in Glacier National Park in one summer. Since he is considered a seasoned expert on the subject, here are his choices for the top ten hikes in Yellowstone National Park:
Mt. Washburn
Hike up an old road past open meadows and gnarled rock faces to the panoramic views of Yellowstone at the lookout.
North Rim Trail
Follow along the rim of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone as the mighty Yellowstone River changes from a slow, broad river to a frothing whitewater rapid that spills over as two incredible waterfalls. Then continue along the canyon with otherworldly formations made of yellow, white, and red rocks.
Clear Lake - Ribbon Lake Loop
This hike is kid friendly. Start at the South Rim of the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone with views of the Upper Falls before traversing through meadows.
Stop at the hydrothermal Clear Lake, then continue to the lily pad covered Ribbon Lake, and finish the hike along the South Rim.
Avalanche Park
This steep trail in the Absaroka Range winds through a forest with beautiful views. Take in the unobstructed views of the mountains and Yellowstone Lake from the peak’s shoulder to summit.
Fairy Falls
Walk along the Firehole River, past Grand Prismatic Spring, and through a lodgepole pine forest to the tall, delicate Fairy Falls. Then continue to geysers and open meadows as you make your way back to the Firehole River.
Storm Point Nature Trail
Again, this trail is kid friendly. This varied loop has you starting out by a quaint pond with large meadows frequented by bison. Continue through a dense forest and finish the hike at the vast shore of Yellowstone Lake.
www.visitmt.com/yellowstone/top-10-hikes.html
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Go, Do, See
Valley of Fire State Park
Just a couple hours outside of Las Vegas, you’ll find a handful of totally unique state parks, each delivering dazzling vistas, endless trails, and all sorts of outdoor activities. Swap the big city lights for breathtaking only-in-Nevada sights like Mars-like hoodoos, an aptly-named Rainbow Canyon, and waterfalls flowing in juniper and ponderosa forests. Hiking boots, mountain bikes, fishing poles, camping gear, and a major sense of adventure will be highly encouraged all weekend long. Of all the state and national parks in Nevada, Valley of Fire remains a fave for visitors and locals alike, thanks to stunning red sandstone rock formations, ancient petroglyphs, and quick access from the Las Vegas Valley. Valley of Fire known for its stunning red sandstone rock formations
which illuminate the valley—especially at sunset—making it look appear as though it’s on fire. Entwined among the valley’s red rock wonderland are remnants of prehistoric locals and unparalleled vistas, too. Located in the Mojave Desert, the southern tip of Nevada, Valley of Fire State Park is home to 46,000 acres of red Aztec sandstone, formed by shifting sand dunes years ago, which
is blended with gray and tan-colored limestone. The stunning landscape glows red for miles into the horizon. With elevations ranging from 1,500 feet to 3,000 feet, there are some popular day hikes that are easily accessible to visitors. Choose from 73 total campsites, including popular ones like Arch Rock. There are also three group camping areas that will accommodate up to 45 people. RV camping is also an option. Whether you’re coming from across the country or just driving up to Valley of Fire from Las Vegas for the day, the park is accessible to everyone. Shady picnic spots with nearby restrooms can be found at Atlatl Rock, Seven Sisters, White Dome, and the Cabins, which are historic stone structures built with native sandstone in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps. For more information, visit http:// parks.nv.gov/parks/valley-of-fire
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Things to Do: Paddle Tour the
Lewis & Clark River Hop in a watercraft and paddle along the lush riverbanks of the Lewis and Clark River. See bald eagles soar while you calmly float through history and hear a unique perspective of Lewis and Clark National Historical Park. The themes of these three hour ranger-led paddles will include various natural and cultural topics geared for all interests. Tours will run Thursday through Sunday during the summer. Tour reservations for the 2020 summer season will start on June 15, 2020 at 10am. No reservations will be accepted prior to that date. Tours will run Thursday through Sunday during the summer. Tours will start on July 16, 2020 and run through September 20, 2020. Start and end times are different every day and dependent on the tides. Lewis and Clark National Historical Park is modifying its kayak tour operations in accordance with the latest guidance from the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and state and local public health authorities. The Park reserves the right to cancel tours and/or limit the size and length of the tours. The park will provide a water craft, paddles, and life jackets. However, if you are a special size you may want to bring your own life jacket.
Reservations are required, and will be accepted on a first come first served basis. No reservations are taken over the phone, but if you are experiencing problems making a reservation, please call the kayak line at (503)861-4425 and leave a message. Due to COVID-19 and to meet CDC requirements, we are only allowing one person per kayak, therefore all participants must be at least 18 years old. Unfortunately, we are unable to accommandate children kayaking this year. Due to tides, the start time of each tour changes. Meet at the Netul Landing (south entrance) at the boat launch area, one mile south of Fort Clatsop visitor center 15 minutes prior to program start time. The tour is free with park admission. Use of a personal watercraft is limited and must be preapproved. For more information, visit https://www. nps.gov/lewi/index.htm
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Things to Do:
For more than 60 years, Western River Expeditions has specialized as Nature’s partner, offering guests the specialized expertise, matched with a pristine river environment to enable transformations in mind, body and spirit. This is Utah’s Desolation Canyon, carved over millennia by the 730-mile Green River that is spawned by glacial melts on the Continental Divide. The company’s proven and lauded health protocols are in place for this trip that welcomes families with children ages five and up. This complete vacation takes place outside. Transportation to the put-in is by small plane. The rafting journey through Desolation Canyon is much more than rafting. The environment offers large beaches, swimming holes, outlaw cabins to explore, Native American sites, wildlife, fishing and great hikes. The Green is less strident than the Grand Canyon’s rollicking Colorado River. Whitewater on the Green is playful, marked by over 60 warm-water Class I-III rapids, packed with more than enough splash to excite all ages. Western River Expeditions’ Desolation Canyon 5-Day Trip is offered June through August. Rates are $1,845 for ages 16 and up and $1,145 for ages 5-15 including airport transfer and flight from Moab, Utah, to the river, cots, tents, sleeping bags, chairs and water-resistant bags, all meals from between departure to return, guides, staff and equipment.
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Nature a InDeso
and Whitewater solationCanyon Highlights include:
• exploring 88 river miles • the option to paddle two-person inflatable kayaks or, relax in a guide-powered oar boat • witnessing 40 million years of geologic history • maneuvering 60+ fun-filled Class I-III rapids. spread fairly evenly throughout the length of the trip. • visiting famous Wild West outlaw hideouts. Butch Cassidy and the Wild Bunch found that the rugged terrain here offered a perfect hideaway. • hiking off-river with a seasoned guide wellversed in the region’s history and geology • deluxe camping on sandy beaches along the river • enjoying host-prepared meals with ingredients sourced from local farmers and producers • sunbathing on and off the water shaded by ancient cottonwoods • watching a Trip Jester entertain the children For more details visit https://www.westernriver. com/desolation-canyon
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Places to Go:
Cape Disappointment State Park
Don’t let the name mislead you, there’s nothing disappointing about this state park on the very south-west tip of the Washington coast. The name was coined in 1788 when an English ship searching for the outlet of the (then unnamed) Columbia river, which passes just south of the Cape, missed the passage over the river’s sand bar and was forced to turn back, leaving the Columbia unexplored until 1792. The park also marks the end of the journey made by Lewis and Clark in 1805, the first American expedition to cross
what is now the western US, from St Louis, Missouri, to the Pacific. The park’s Lewis and the Clark Interpretive Center tells the story of their journey. Lighthouse enthusiasts will also delight in the North Head and Cape Disappointment lighthouses. The latter, built in 1856, is the oldest functioning lighthouse on the west coast. If history isn’t your thing, the park also offers plenty of coastal scenery, including eight miles of hiking trails to secluded coves. A large campground caters to both RVs and tents, and 14 beachside yurts and three cabins are also
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available for rental. Between December and March, Pacific grey whales migrate past the Cape from their Arctic feeding grounds to their breeding grounds off Mexico. The higher ground around the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center and North Head lighthouse offer the best viewing. For more information, visit https://www.parks.wa.gov/
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Yellowstone National Park Places to Go:
The Grand Prismatic Spring in Yellowstone National Park is the largest hot spring in the United States, and the third largest in the world. It is located in the Midway Geyser Basin. Grand Prismatic Spring was noted by geologists working in the Hayden Geological Survey of 1871, and named by them for its striking coloration. Its colors match most of those seen in the rainbow dispersion of white light by an optical prism: red, orange, yellow, green, and blue. The fairy fall trail( around 1 mile) takes you to the top view scenic point. Visit the hot spring during the hottest time of the day - you will see more color with less steam. Grand Prismatic Spring is so amazing, it is a must-see when you visit Yellowstone National Park!
Old Faithful is a cone geyser in Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming, United States. It was named in 1870 during the Washburn–Langford–Doane Expedition and was the first geyser in the park to be named. It is a highly predictable geothermal feature and has erupted every 44 minutes to two hours since 2000. The geyser and the nearby Old Faithful Inn are part of the Old Faithful Historic District.
Yellowstone Lake is the largest body of water in Yellowstone National Park. The lake is 7,732 feet above sea level and covers 136 square miles with 110 miles of shoreline. While the average depth of the lake is 139 ft, its greatest depth is at least 394 ft. Yellowstone Lake is the largest freshwater lake above 7,000 ft in North America. In winter, ice nearly 3 ft thick covers much of the lake except where shallow water covers hot springs. The lake freezes over by early December and can remain frozen until late May or early June
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Go, Do, See
Five Top Parks castle-like lookout tower at the top offers spectacular views of the surrounding area. The park sustained heavy damage from a tornado that struck in May 2018, but after months of extensive clean-up, it is expected to reopen later this spring. When it does, be sure to bring a picnic and explore its tranquil nature trails.
3. Dinosaur State Park – 5. Hammonasset Beach State Park – Madison (Madi- Rocky Hill (Hartford County): son County):
Hammonasset Beach is Connecticut’s longest shoreline park—clocking in at over two miles worth of beach. Visitors can go swimming, adventure along the boardwalk, or sit and relax in the sunshine. Come for a picnic or to go saltwater boating and bring the whole family! There’s even a car top boat launch for you to use. Hammonasset Beach was first opened to the public in 1920, and today over a million visitors stop by each year.
4. Sleeping Giant State Park – Hamden (Madison County):
The mountaintop that stretches 2 miles and resembles a sleeping giant inspired this park’s name. The hiking trail is well maintained and the -24- | WEEKENDEREXTENDED.COM ~ May, 2021
2. Gilette Castle State Park – East Haddam (Middlesex Cty):
One of East Haddam’s most popular attractions that is definitely worth a visit. The impressive and ecentric medieval-style structure is set on sprawling acres that include paved paths, hiking trails, a duck pond, bridges, and picnic areas. The castle, open Memorial Day weekend through Columbus Day, offers beautiful views of the Connecticut River and insight into the life of actor William Gillette (known for portraying Sherlock Holmes). Food concessions and a gift shop are open in season.
Hike 2 miles of trails, explore an arborteum featuring more than 250 species of trees, go birdwatching, and check out one of the largest dinosaur tracks in North America housed 1. Wadsworth Falls State inside the Exhibit Center. Trails are Park – Middletown (Middlesex open daily, year-round, and walking Cty): them is free. Dinosaur State Park and Enjoy hiking or biking various Arboretum is a state-owned natural woodland trails, admire beautiful history preserve occupying 80 acres stone bridges, and relax by two gushin the town of Rocky Hill, Connectiing waterfalls. There are designated cut. The state park protects one of the swimming, fishing and picnic areas largest dinosaur track sites in North for public use. America. Its Jurassic-era sandstone-embedded fossil For More on Connecticut, tracks date from about 200 million years ago.
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Best State Parks for Families Places to Go:
Lums Pond State Park
Ashland Nature Center
Swing through the canopy, fly down a zip-line, paddle on serene creeks, and get up close to feeding hummingbirds. Delaware’s State Parks offer an array of exciting experiences for families, including Delaware’s Outdoor Family Programs and Children in Nature programs. Here are some of the best in the state: 1. Lums Pond State Park Centering around the largest freshwater pond in the state, Lum’s Pond Park is home to a thrilling Go Ape! Treetop Adventure Course. Swing like Tarzan through the trees, fly down five zip-lines, and embark on treetop crossings. Boat on the lake, play sport, or hike the park’s trail system. Soccer, tennis, basketball, and volleyball join disc golf and horseshoeing as fun sports options in this all-rounded park. 2. Ashland Nature Center Plenty of family-focused activities are on hand so you can experience nature as never before. Visit the Butterfly House to learn about these brightly colored
Bombay Hook Natl. Wildlife Refuge
beauties, spot birdlife at Bird Blind, and watch the wings of the hummingbirds as they feast on nectar at Hummingbird Haven. Hawks swoop overhead as you follow scenic trails into some of Delaware’s most impressive and impactful landscapes. One hundred and thirty acres of woodland join meadows, marshes, and Red Clay Creek to capture children’s imaginations. 3. Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge Your family will be awed by the magical vistas of migrating birds resting at this park on the Atlantic coast. With nearly 16,000 acres, there’s plenty of space for little ones to run about. For added interest, Allee House is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
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Places to Go
Acadia Acadia is 47,000 acres of wooded, rocky beaches and majestic, glacier-sculpted granite peaks. Home to some of the most stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife on the Eastern Seaboard, Acadia National Park is open to explore year-round. Situated on the coast of Maine, the majority of the park’s 47,000 acres sprawls on Mount Desert Island, though portions of the park are on the Schoodic Peninsula and Isle au Haut. Whether you’re interested in visiting Acadia National Park for fall foliage, winter skiing, spring fishing or summer hikes, it’s the perfect outdoor playground. Many people begin their exploration of the park at the headquarters or the Hulls Cove Visitor Center. To enjoy the park with fewer crowds during peak summer months, try an alternative entrance like the Welcome Center at Rockefeller Hall on the Schoodic Peninsula. Read on to learn more about Maine’s only national park. The park is about 160 miles from Portland, Maine, and about 50 miles from Bangor, Maine. The town of Bar Harbor, located on Mount Desert Island, shares borders with the park
and is a popular home base for those visiting the park. When you’re planning a trip to Acadia National Park, rest assured there’s no shortage of summits, hiking trails and natural beauty. Here are just a few of the many must-see places on Mount Desert Island and beyond.
Cadillac Mountain
View from Cadillac Mountain at SunsetFor half the year, this mammoth mountain is home to the first rays of daylight to touch the United States, and the perfect place to catch the sunrise year-round. Considering the sheer scale and beauty of the mountain (it’s the tallest on Mount
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Desert Island and the Atlantic Coast), it’s no wonder why it attracts so many visitors. If you’re hoping to avoid the crowds (and be a bit adventurous), try hiking the trails in winter. The solitude and snow-kissed scenery are worth it. From May 26 through Oct 19, vehicle reservations are required for Cadillac Summit Road between sunrise and sunset.
Thunder Hole
Thunder HoleIf you find yourself along the coast of Mount Desert Island and hear thunder but don’t see a cloud in the sky, you’ll know you’ve arrived. Coastal stone and immense ocean waves conspire to produce a
o
National Park
booming show at Thunder Hole, a natural inlet that’s a popular attraction for first-time visitors.
Great Long Pond
Great Long PondFour miles long and 113 feet deep, Great Long Pond on Mount Desert Island is popular for boating, canoeing and fishing. Be sure not to confuse it with Little Long Pond in Seal Harbor.
Sand Beach
Sand BeachMount Desert Island’s dramatic, rocky coastline gives brief way at Sand Beach. Though the ocean water is chilly even in summer, the soft inviting stretch of sand is popular
for picnics and close to coastal trails, like the Ocean Path.
Isle au Haut
Isle au HautThis picturesque island, about half of which is designated Acadia National Park land, is accessible only by mail boat from the town of Stonington. There are five rustic campsites available for reservation, and eighteen miles of hiking trails that present a new perspective of Acadia.
Schoodic Peninsula
Schoodic PeninsulaThis lesser-used section of the park offers awesome views of the Atlantic Ocean and
Mount Desert Island in the distance. Explore Schoodic Loop Road’s 8.3 miles of one-way bike paths with incredible scenery on tap. ToursWant to squeeze the most out of your visit? Enjoy a narrated bus tour (and let someone else do the driving) with Oli’s Trolley and National Park Tours or take a step back in time with a horse-drawn carriage ride along the park’s carriage roads. The Island Explorer bus service can also help you beat the crowds. If you’re looking for a fresh-air approach, try a ranger-guided bike or boat tour. And if anything is testament to the park’s natural splendor, it’s that two federal scenic byways have been designated within its borders. Take a drive along the Acadia All-American Road and the Schoodic National Scenic Byway From classic tent camping to modern RVing, a variety of campsites can be found on Mount Desert Island, the Schoodic Peninsula and Isle au Haut. Some are even available year-round. Many campsites have bathrooms with running water and showers close by, though you can rough it at more primitive campsites. If you’re not sure where to stay but want to enjoy the park by day and comforts of town by night, you can find inns, cottages, hotels and more in towns like Bar Harbor, Ellsworth, Southwest Harbor, Tremont and more. Find the park’s seasonal hours and information on fees and passes below. If you’re driving to the park, keep in mind that some lots do not accommodate RVs or trailers. For more information, visit www. visitmaine.com
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Go,Do,See:
Top 5 State Parks
Editor’s note: It was so difficult to choose a favorite park to visit on an extended weekend getaway because there are so many great ones. They are all so different, offering so many different adventures. Some have mountain views while others feature beaches. Some are full of hidden trails. So here are just a few suggestions for now with more coming later:
Patapsco Valley State Park
This park extends 32 miles, covering parts of Howard, Baltimore, and Anne Arundel Counties. It contains streams, waterfalls, viaducts, bridges, and is just all-around amazing.
Tuckahoe State Park
This park is located in Caroline and Queen Anne’s Counties. The scenic lake is perfect for fishing and boating and there are also plenty of trails for land lovers.uests as allowed. For more information and a schedule of events, visit online at https://ladewgardens.com/
Gambrill State Park
Want an inspirational view? This state park wins with some of the most amaing views in all of Maryland. All areas of the park are open including Rock Run Campground. -28- | WEEKENDEREXTENDED.COM ~ May, 2021
From the 1600-foot High Knob, three stone overlooks offer breathtaking views of the Frederick and Middletown Valleys, then continue to the northern reaches of the Shenandoah Mountains. The High Knob area also offers wooded picnic areas
Deep Creek Lake Stae Park
The grand lake in Garrett County is only one of the features of Deep Creek State Park. This park is a popular location for water sports, fishing, and mountain biking.
South Mountain State Park
Pictured above, this park spans parts of Washington and Frederick Counties. It also contains Maryland’s 40-mile section of the Appalachian Trail, and the views are breathtaking. Part of the Blue Ridge Mountain Range, South Mountain separates the Hagerstown and Cumberland valleys from the Piedmont regions of Maryland and Pennsylvania. South Mountain State Park has no official entrance, but instead has various access points.
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People to See
At the Delfest
CUMBERLAND - DelFest, the beloved genre-spanning festival brainchild of McCoury Music and High Sierra Music is pleased to announce additional acts for its 13th annual festival, once again taking place Sept. 23-26. Festival hosts The Del McCoury Band and The Travelin’ McCourys, will be also joined by Railroad Earth, Béla Fleck My Bluegrass Heart feat. Michael Cleveland, Sierra Hull, Mark Schatz, and Bryan Sutton, Cabinet, the Seldom Scene, Hawktail and Jacob Jolliff Band. Previously announced artists include Old Crow Medicine Show, St. Paul & The Broken Bones, Sam Bush, The Lil Smokies, Della Mae, Cris Jacobs Band, Hot Club of Cowtown, Frank Solivan & Dirty Kitchen, The Broomestix, Rob Ickes & Trey Hensley, Steve Poltz, Sister Sadie, Lonesome River Band, Ghost of Paul Revere, Dre Anders, Twisted Pine, Fireside Collective, The Jakob’s Ferry Stragglers, Crying Uncle Bluegrass Band, Birches Bend, Haint Blue, Dirty Grass Players, and The 9th Street Band. As always, Joe Craven, will emcee for the weekend. Tickets are officially on-sale and music fans are encouraged to act fast. DelFest’s famed Late Night programming will be announced in the coming months. In addition to traditional stage sets by these world-class artists, attendees can again expect to see one-of-a-kind collaborations, special guest sit-ins, various tributes to Del McCoury and his musical legacy, and intimate appearances from the aforementioned artists. Delfest will, as usual, be immediately preceded by the 3-day DelFest Academy hosted by The Travelin’ McCourys and other all-star players. Located along the Potomac River in the scenic Appalachian Mountains, the Allegany County Fairgrounds serves as the ideal location for DelFest. The fairgrounds are conveniently located near four major airports and can be easily reached by rail or road. There are multiple hotel options and great amenities that include biking, fishing, and kayaking. For information please visit delfest.com
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Places to Go
Ramblewild Adventure Park
BERKSHIRE - Ramblewild is Feronia Forests’ first tree-to-tree adventure destination. Aerial parks are a new outdoor activity in and amongst the trees that offer excitement, challenge, and personal growth for families and adventurists of all kinds. With our state-of-the-art equipment and tree-to-tree trails designed for every ability level, there is something for everyone as participants challenge themselves to reach new heights. Built sustainably, the park is designed to immerse you in the natural world so you leave refreshed, reconnected with nature, and full of self confidence. At Ramblewild, the focal point is a central wooden platform about ten feet above ground from which eight aerial obstacle courses originate, meandering from tree to tree at various -30- | WEEKENDEREXTENDED.COM ~ May, 2021
heights through the forest. Each course consists of 15-17 elements (high wires, zip lines, balancing logs, rope ladders, cargo nets, suspended bridges, etc.) that meander through a pristine hemlock forest. Our tree-totree challenge courses are designed to have a profound impact on visitors’ self-confidence and happiness. Engagement with the environment is the first step for people to begin caring about and supporting it: our mission is to bring people back to the forest and to develop an understanding, appreciation and respect for nature in everyone. Ramblewild’s Tree-to-Tree Adventure Park is the premier aerial adventure park in the Berkshires, set on 10+ dedicated acres in the middle of over 1,400 acres of pristine New England forest. The park is divided by a ra-
vine, which is connected via a 200-foot suspension bridge high above the stream below. The focal point is a 15 ft. high central platform - the starting point for our eight aerial obstacle courses. Courses meander from tree to tree at various heights throughout the forest and include elements like high wires, zip lines, balancing logs, rope ladders, cargo nets, suspended bridges, and more. Four of the eight courses cross over the ravine via zip lines that will keep you over 100 feet above the bottom! For more information, visit https:// newramble.com/
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Things to do:
Let the Kids Go To Camp Candia Springs Adventure Camp is located in the heart of New Hampshire’s great outdoors. We have combined the tranquility and majestic beauty of nature with the fun and excitement of an adventure park situated in the quaint, picturesque town of Candia, NH. The park board is partnering with 4-H to deliver some fun, unique, educational programs. Our camp is open to ages 8-12, Our Explorers 8-10 and Adventurers 11-12. Campers participate in all park activities as well as themed program sessions and some fun traditional camp electives! Weekly Themes Dates/Themes: WEEK 1: 6/21-6/25 - ARCHERY(Learn basic skills and safety) WEEK 2: 6/287/02 - MAKERS WEEK(Art & craft with some twists) WEEK 3: 7/05-7/09 -OUTDOOR LIVING SKILLS(Shelter & fire building) WEEK 4: 7/12-7/16 - ARCHERY WEEK 5: 7/19-7/23 - MAKERS WEEK WEEK 6: 7/26-7/30 - OUTDOOR LIVING SKILLS WEEK 7: 8/02-8/06 - ARCHERY WEEK 8: 8/09-8/13 - MAKERS WEEK *THEME AND SCHEDULE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DEPENDENT ON REGISTRATION AND AVAILA-
BILTY OF PROGRAM MATERIAL Pricing Prior to May 01st: $75 non-refundable deposit(per week reserved) is due with registration form. The deposit will be deducted from the first week’s camp fee. Full payment is due on or before May 01st 2021. Full payment is due at time of registration. Full Day 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. – $249 per camper per week. Multi campers same family 10% off after 1 registration purchased at full price Food add on, $10 per day or$40 per week in advance (FOOD CAN BE ADDED WEEK OF CAMP). three- day minimum $50 per day (email info@candiasprings.com to request shortened week) \The State of NH requires that we have a copy of your child’s immunization records/ physical (must be current). Full registration must be completed within two weeks of registration if booked after May 01st.
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Go, Do,See
Monmouth Battlefield State Park
Monmouth Battlefield State Park is a 1,818-acre New Jersey state park located on the border of Manalapan and Freehold Township, in Monmouth County, New Jersey, United States. This park preserves the historical battlefield on which the American Revolutionary War’s Battle of Monmouth was waged. One of the largest battles of the American Revolution took place in the fields and forests that now make up Monmouth Battlefield State Park. The park preserves a splendid rural 18th-century landscape of hilly farmland and hedgerows that encompasses miles of hiking and horseback riding trails, picnic areas, a restored Revolutionary War farmhouse and a visitors center. -32- | WEEKENDEREXTENDED.COM ~ May, 2021
The reenactment of the Battle of Monmouth is an annual event at the park in late June. When you visit, you will pass enlisted men cleaning their weapons or idle away their time, and watch the women of the army cook, mend, and wash. You may encounter a drum major drilling his musicians or a court martial. At the parade ground, watch soldiers drill or artillerists fire their cannon. But we must alert you to keep an eye on your children, or the recruiting sergeant may have them drilling with wooden muskets! The park offers a variety of interpretive and educational programs. Join us for nature and history hikes, birding and lectures on the bloody details of the battle. Please contact the Visitor Center for a schedule of programs and to register. In case of
inclement weather, contact the Visitor Center to determine if a program has been canceled or rescheduled at (732) 462-9616. Program fees may apply. Hiking the Battlefield, you will discover that the battlefields remain a working landscape. One family (the Applegates) cultivates extensive apple, cherry, peach and nectarine orchards. Grasslands and fallow fields are managed to provide shelter for grassland birds and small mammals. While strolling the grounds, visitors can learn more about the battle through wayside exhibits located on Perrine Hill, Combs Hill, and the Hedgerow. Or pick up one of two detailed hiking guides in the Visitor Center, produced by the Friends of Monmouth Battlefield.
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Things to Do: Flushing Meadows
Corona Park QUEENS - The site of two world’s fairs, Flushing Meadows Corona Park is full of green space, fascinating relics and museums. In 1939, and again in 1964, the park hosted two of the largest international exhibitions ever held in the United States.
Today, the park—Queens’s largest and most diverse—serves as a vantage point for the rich history of the fairs and the social/cultural lives of the seven million annual visitors to the park’s current sports fields, winding paths, lakes, recreational facilities, museums, and theater. As one of the city’s most iconic parks, visitors can enjoy historic walks, the scenic trails, and sports activities, including soccer, baseball, tennis, volleyball, cricket and more. Work out at the recreation center or swim in the indoor pool. Explore the park’s lakes and trails by foot, bike, or kayak; or visit one of the park’s many cultural and civic institutions. Spend your day in a park that has it all! This fourth-largest park in all of New York City also features attractions for artists, nature lovers and the technologically inclined. The Queens Museum is dedicated to presenting the highest quality visual arts and educational programming through art exhibitions, public
programs and educational experiences that promote the appreciation and enjoyment of art, support the creative efforts of artists. The New York Hall of Science is New York’s hub for interactive science learning with more than 400 exhibits and numerous family programs. ; The Queens Zoo is part of an integrated system of four zoos and one aquarium managed by the Wildlife Conservation Society in partnership with the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation The Fountain of the Fairs connects the Unisphere to the Fountain of the Planets. In 2000, the fountain was restored to life after decades of inactivity. Flushing Meadows Corona Park has become a recreational escape for the residents of New York City and visitors from around the world. The park’s international flavor draws from the area’s diverse neighborhoods. Flushing Meadows Corona Park is home to Queen’s beloved symbol, The Unisphere, which features representations of the continents and celebrates the World’s Fairs theme of “Peace Through Understanding.” The park draws over three million visitors from all over the world for both spectator and recreationFor more on New York al activities.
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Places to Go:
Amusement Parks
Hersheypark
Enjoy more than 70 attractions, including the all-new region, Hershey’s Chocolatetown! Hersheypark is a bucket list destination for any family, with 13 roller coasters -- including the newly added Laff Trakk -- family rides, kiddie rides and water rides at the park”s Boardwalk. Visits to Hersheypark include interactions with your favorite characters (well, candies), along with the opportunity to see a concert at nearby Hersheypark Stadium, visit your favorite animals at ZooAmerica and of course, sample chocolates at Hershey”s Chocolate World. Recommended Hotel: Fairfield Inn & Suites Hershey Chocolate Avenue.
Knoebels
Knoebels (kuh-no-bulls) is one of the best-loved amusement parks in Pennsylvania, and the U.S. The small, family-owned park has been operating in the backwoods of Elysburg -34- | WEEKENDEREXTENDED.COM ~ May, 2021
since 1926. It features a free-admission policy, which means you don”t actually have to pay to enter the park; you pay per ride -- a major savings for families. Another savings -- families have the option to bring food and grills into the park. Knoebels offers a fantastic mix of thrill, family and kiddie rides, with the most popular rides including the Phoenix, an iconic wooden roller coaster, and Impulse, a steel looping roller coaster that debuted in 2015. Recommended Hotel: Knoebels Campground
Sesame Place
Just one hour from Philadelphia, Sesame Place is the only amusement park of its kind in the world, and one that shouldn”t be missed with young kids. It offers tame rides, such as Snuffy”s Slides and Sunny Day Carousel. Cookie”s Monster Land, added in 2014, includes themed rides such as Oscar”s Rotten Rusty Rockets, Monster Mix-Up and Flying Cookie Jars. Kids also enjoy interactive shows,
games, parades and meet-and-greet experiences with characters; you can even arrange to have a meal with Elmo or The Count! Recommended Hotel: SpringHill Suites Philadelphia Langhorne
Kennywood
Thrill-seekers, rejoice: Kennywood in West Mifflin, Pennsylvania features 14 thrill rides, including the Black Widow, a new scream-inducing swing ride. The park also features some “dark†attractions, such as Garfield”s Nightmare and Ghostwood Estate. Young kids love the Whippersnapper and Crazy Trolley, along with Log Jammer, Pittsburg* Plunge and Raging Rapids -- three water rides that are guaranteed to get you soaked! Recommended Hotel: Holiday Inn Express Pittsburgh – Munhall
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Places to Go:
Lincoln Woods State Park
B
etween routes 146 and routes 123 , Lincoln Woods State Park is one of Blackstone Valley’s great treasures. A short ride from Providence, Pawtucket, and Cumberland, it is a popular get away for northeastern Rhode Islanders. Visitors can enjoy swimming at the fresh water beach, trout fishing, playing ball, hiking, jogging, horseback riding, or just relaxing under a shade tree. A new covered bridge at the Breakneck Hill entrance has been dedicated in the spring of 2005. Lincoln Woods State Park is one of three Rhode Island State Park locations tested for safe ice during the winter months. In light of the increased amount of use the horse trails in Lincoln Woods State Park by equestrian and mountain bicycle users and in the interest of public safety, the desire to minimize conflicts, and the desire to protect the integrity and character of the trails for the equestrian use, the division has adopted the following
policy for the use of the trails at Lincoln Woods State Park. The horse trails to the west of Quinsnicket Road as identified on themap link below as being Zone “A” shall be used exclusively for equestrian use. Those trails the the east of Quinsnicket Road as identified on the map linked below as being Zoned “B” shall be multi-use and may be utilized for mountain biking activities. Little League field reservations will be accepted beginning the first Monday in March. Call the Lincoln Woods State Park office for more details. No motorized boats allowed on weekends and holidays, Memorial Day through Labor Day. Boat motors must be less than 10 horsepower.
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Places to Go: Smugglers’ Notch State Park on Vermont Route 108 is open for year-round recreation, but access is limited in the winter months to snow mobiles and skiers. There are 14 lean-to shelters and 20 campsites at the campgrounds that are located just off Route 108. The park serves as a trailhead for several hiking trails that stretch into Mount Mansfield State Forest. Sterling Pond trail passes through a dense secondary forest. The trail begins North of the campground and it rises 900 feet to Sterling Pond which is open to fishing and swimming. Several trails begin at Smugglers’ Notch State Park and ascend Mount Mansfield. Mountain climbing and spelunking is permitted at the park. Many large boulders and caves are found throughout the park and vertical cliffs are on Mount Mansfield and Elephant’s Head. Smugglers’ Notch is named for the smuggling that was prompted by a request of President Thomas Jefferson to prevent American involvement in the Napoleonic Wars. The United States Congress passed the Embargo Act of 1807 which prohibited American trade with Great Britain and Canada.
Smugglers Notch
The British bypassed the embargo by importing products to Canada and they were smuggled down mountain trails through Smugglers’ Notch by Vermonters. The Act caused great hardship for locals, many of whom continued the illegal trade with Canada, carrying goods and herding livestock
through the notch. The geology of the notch made it well suited for smuggling as the area is remote and laced with numerous caves. The caves were used as hideaways by the smugglers. Much of the illegal activity slowed with the onset of the War of 1812. Smugglers’ Notch was later used on the Underground Railroad when fugitive slaves used the notch as an escape route to Canada. The route was improved to accommodate automobile traffic in 1922 thus providing a route for liquor to be
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brought in from Canada during the Prohibition years. Smugglers’ Notch State Park was built near the notch by the depression-era Civilian Conservation Corps founded by President Franklin D. Roosevelt to provide employment for the out of work young men of New England in 1936. In 2003 the park was relocated, making way for a larger campground and modern facilities incorporating alternative energy. To preserve the work of these pioneering conservationists, all original structures created by the CCC were carefully relocated to the new site. Bingham Falls, a 40-foot cascading waterfall with deep gorges and pools is surrounded by red and yellow maple and white birch. Wherever you go in the park you’ll find water, from trickling streams to the Brewster River, and even fresh spring drinking water at Big Spring Once called a “mountain biking mecca” by The Boston Globe, there are over 50 miles of single track through the green forests. For paved cycling, try the 5.3-mile Stowe Recreation Path.
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Places to Go
Gulf State Park
The Gulf State Park has two miles of beaches, a spacious campground and a brand new Lodge and Conference Center to greet you. If camping isn’t really your choice of lodging, then take advantage of the indoor lodging available. Enjoy relaxing views of the sugar white sand beaches and emerald waters of the Gulf of Mexico, or walk or bike our 28 miles of trails through 6,150 acres covering nine ecosystems. The Lodge is a resilient, environmentally friendly coastal development where sustainability and connectivity to the outdoors are a central focus. A Learning Campus is located in the woods adjacent to the Park Headquarters. This sustainably designed and operated venue includes indoor and outdoor classrooms, a laboratory, a meeting space, overnight bunkhouse accommodations, and dining at Woodside. Woodside Restaurant is where to find great food, live music, and a variety of backyard games. Sit back, relax and enjoy your meal in the dining room, the screened porch or find a spot outside under the shade of an oak tree. Woodside is open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Food, beer and wine are also available for carry out. Visit woodsideatgsp.com or call 251-923-3100. The Interpretive Center is the gateway to Gulf State Park where guests are encouraged to explore the Park’. Pursuing
the world’s most rigorous building certifications, including Living Building Challenge, learn how this special facility generates its own energy and its own water! alapark.com/ parks/gulf-state-park/interpretive-center Don’t miss the Nature Center, a living museum of plants and animals that are native to the Gulf Coast region. Weekly programs include guided nature walks, beach walks, pier walks, and nature time. Through these educational programs, a multitude of learning opportunities for children and adults about Alabama’s Gulf Coast are offered. alapark.com/parks/gulfstate-park/nature-center The Gulf State Park Fishing & Education Pier is the largest pier on the Gulf of Mexico, stretching a quarter mile into the Gulf, offers plenty of fishing and sightseeing action 24 hours a day, all year. Guided pier walks offer the history of the pier, fun facts about some of the wildlife to be seen, and the opportunity to observe the day’s catch. Want to try your hand? Equipment and bait are available. Fees and licenses are required for fishing. Overnight park guests may sightsee for free. alapark. com/parks/gulf-statepark/fishing-and-education-pier
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Places to Go:
Louisiana Purchase Historic State Park
Renovations to preserve this site of major significance are complete and the park is now open. The park protects the initial point of the Louisiana Purchase Survey of 1815, which is a vital, fixed coordinate for land surveying across the western United States. Rediscovered by land surveyors in 1921 and then in 1926, the Daughters of the American Revolution placed a granite monument commemorating its significance. The nearly 40-acre plot that surrounds the granite monument was acquired by Arkansas State Parks in 1961. Water tupelos and cypress trees tower above the wetlands, transporting visitors back in time through land untouched by the surrounding agricultural industry. This headwater swamp environment is one of the few remaining. For nearly 100 years, the granite monument rested in the bed of the wetlands, and over time, the monument began to sink. Today, you can walk a winding 800-foot, elevated boardwalk through the wetlands area to reach the location of the granite monument. History fans should put this on their “must-see” list due to its historic and natural significance. Arkansas State Parks Director Grady Spann said, “The renovations will not only help preserve this important place in Arkansas history, but it also will enhance our visitors’ experience as they walk the boardwalk, explore the interpretive panels, and learn the
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story of how the Louisiana Purchase opened up the American West.” “In the past, the monument was often submerged in the wetlands. To protect this historic landmark, we have raised the monument from the waters and set a new base,” Louisiana Purchase Historic State Park Superintendent Molly Elders said. “We’ve also cleaned and repaired the boardwalk, installed a vault restroom facility, and made walkway and parking lot improvements.” “The park is one of the most historic places in Arkansas. It is the roots of America’s settlement west of the Mississippi River. I’m delighted that it is once again
open to the public with great improvements to its access,” State Parks Recreation and Travel Commissioner John Gill said. The total cost of the project was $362,570 provided by Amendment 75 conservation funds, a donation from the Arkansas Parks and Recreation Foundation, and a grant from the Arkansas Natural and Cultural Resources Council. Arkansas State Parks is a division of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism. For more information, visit ArkansasStateParks.com.
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Go, Do, See:
A Wild Alligator Park Drive-Thru Safari Park By Lisa Brant Things to Do Team
t
A visit through the Headwaters of the Florida Everglades on an airboat ride is a wild adventure. You hear everyone bragging about this place as you are walking by. Any skeptism quickly disappeared as we got closer to the entrance. You see, I’ve learned that in Florida you’re going to pay a price to do anything. I would easily pay these fair prices to do this again and again, for sure. The airboat ride, lunch on the premises, and safari ride were totally worth the price. If you need to experience the nature and eco systems of Florida, this is a one-stop shop. Travel the perimeter of the beautiful wetlands and see natural Florida first-hand at your choice of an early morning, afternoon, sunset, or nighttime tour. This nature park is home to a number of animals and plants that
make up the Florida Everglades ecosystem. These airboats can skim across the shoreline while you look for wildlife or disappear into endless beautiful swamps, marshes and rivers. Each time you go, the experience can be totally different. At The Gator Park, guests can get right up close and personal with more than 200 native and exotic animals! Explore the interesting habitats and heritage expanding across more than 80 acres of untouched scenic landscapes. Learn from the animal care team about what it’s like to work with them and how the collec-
tion has grown over the years. The kids can feed the baby animals in the Petting Zoo or play in the covered playground. Don’t miss the different showtimes and even include a special animal encounter with an exotic animal. When hungry, visit The Chomp House Grill to enjoy barbecue, burgers and local favorites! I tried gator meat for the 1st time and was was good! The Swamp Slushy is a delicious blend of mango, orange and passion fruit. don’t worry about COVID because they are a very clean and sanitized facility with hand sanitizing stations through the park For more information, visit https://wildfloridairboats.com/
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Places to Go:
Cloudland Canyon State Park
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Georgia offers visitors an affordable diversity of landscapes like stunning waterfalls, ancient structures, miles of trails, and boat tours at Georgia State Parks. Try the following pick for an extended weekend getaway: In northwest Georgia, Cloudland Canyon State Park overlooks the deep gorge on the western edge of Lookout Mountain. Cloudland Canyon is one of the largest and most scenic parks in the state. Home to thousand-foot deep canyons, sandstone cliffs, wild caves, waterfalls, cascading creeks, dense woodland and abundant wildlife, the park offers ample outdoor recreation. Hiking trails through the dense woods range from easy to strenuous, with the most challenging taking you down a long staircase to two waterfalls cascading over layers of sandstone and shale into pools below. The park also offers disc golf, a fishing pond, trails for horseback riding, picnicking and overlooks. Stay for a few days to immerse yourself in the great outdoors – hiking, fishing and playing disc golf. At Cloudland, you can rough it as much as you’d like. Overnight in one of the park’s fully equipped cottages, quirky yurts, or pick your spot among the variety of campsites. There are 30 walk-in campsites, 16 cottages and 10 yurts for rent. A group lodge sleeps 40. Pro tip: Mountain bikers can explore 30 miles of trails, which opened in recent years. If you don’t have a bike, you can rent one from the park.
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Places to Go:
Wild Country Safari Park
EPPS - Take a walk on the wild side with these beautiful exotic breeds that include giraffes, kangaroos, wild bison, deer and more! Love things that crawl? Explore the reptiles where you may find large lizards, turtles and even giant snakes! There are more than 30 species of animals at the park that are sure to leave you in amazement.
petting zoo, lunch pavilion and a play area! Go on a guided tour where you can learn about the lifestyles
in their gift shop. You can drive through the park in your own vehicle anytime. Adult admission is $12 and children are $8. For more informaiton, visit online at https://www. wildcountrysafari.com/
“Every living creature is a thing of beauty; something we can not only marvel at from afar but embrace and learn from.”
There is a gift shop,
and habitats of the animals or get hands-on in the petting zoo where you’re sure to find adorable animals! Hungry? Want to shop? Enjoy lunch on the pavilion and shop for fun souvenirs
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Places to Go:
Natchez National Historical Park
Natchez NHP is located in Southwestern Mississippi in the city of Natchez. The park is open yearround offering the opportunity to tour two restored antebellum homes. The park tells the story of two sides of life in the antebellum south. Natchez, Mississippi was once the wealthiest city in the United States thanks to cotton. After the civil war, the cities prosperity started to decline. Melrose home and plantation was built in the late 1840s. The home was owned by John McMurran a wealthy lawyer and plantation owner along with his family. The house is a Greek-revival mansion with fine furnishings. The house was considered one of the grandest houses in the region. The McMurran’s had as many as twenty-five enslaved people who cooked, tended the grounds, cared for the kids, and took care of the property. Today you can take a guided tour of the house to learn about the lives of wealthy plantation owners
and enslaved workers. One of the most interesting exhibits is the slave quarters. Make sure and stop to read the interpretive panels and learn more about enslaved worker’s lives. The William Johnson House is located in the heart of Natchez. Mr. Johnson was born into slavery but was freed by his owner. After being freed he went on to own three barbershops and a bathhouse. Johnson and his family lived on the second floor of a building on State Street. You can take a self-guided tour of the house and visit the visitor center on the first floor. The Natchez Hop-On Hop-Off Tour stops at the Melrose Plantation along with eleven other stops in the city and surrounding area.
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Places to Go:
Big Bend National Park
Known as the largest protected area of Chihuahuan Desert topography and ecology in the United States, Big Bend was named after a large bend in the Rio Grande/Río Bravo.The park protects more than 1,200 species of plants, more than 450 species of birds, 56 species of reptiles, and 75 species of mammals. Additional park activities include scenic drives, programs led by Big Bend park rangers, and stargazing.
Big Bend is a hiker’s paradise. there are more than 150 miles of desert and mountain trails to explore! The park encompasses an area of 801,163 acres (1,251.8 sq mi; 3. For more than 1,000 miles (1,600 km), the Rio Grande/Río Bravo forms the boundary between Mexico and the United States, and Big Bend National Park administers approximately 118 miles (190 km) along that boundary.
The area has a rich cultural history, from archeological sites dating back nearly 10,000 years to more recent pioneers, ranchers, and miners. The Chisos Mountains in the park are the only mountain range in the United States to be fully contained within the boundary of a national park. Geological features include sea fossils and dinosaur bones, as well as volcanic dikes.
Because the Rio Grande serves as an international boundary, the park faces unusual constraints while administering and enforcing park rules, regulations, and policies. In accordance with the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, the park’s territory extends only to the center of the deepest river channel as the river flowed in 1848. The rest of the channel and the land south of it lies within Mexican territory. The
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park is bordered by the protected areas of Cañón de Santa Elena and Maderas del Carmen in Mexico. There are four campgrounds in Big Bend National Park. The National Park Service (NPS) operates three developed frontcountry campgrounds that provide drinking water and restroom facilities. In addition, a full hookup RV camping area is operated by the park concessioner, Forever Resorts. Reservations are required. No first come, first serve camping at this time. Reservations can be made up to 6 months in advance by visiting recreation.gov or by calling 1-877444-6777.. For more on Texas
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Things to Do: A Spring Fling
at SOPHY Hyde Park CHICAGO - SOPHY® Hyde Park, the stylish boutique hotel in the cultural heart of Chicago’s South Side, is the social hub for the diverse urban community that is the very definition of the Hyde Park neighborhood. The lobby living room with its striking fireplace is a gathering space to mix and mingle, as is Mesler Chicago restaurant and bar, featuring design inspired by the iconic South Side. SOPHY® Hyde Park is a 98- room hotel in Chicago’s historic Hyde Park neighborhood that was recently named one of “The Best New Hotels in the World.” SOPHY features Mesler Chicago restaurant, a fitness center and a private dining room. Art and science come together in SOPHY’s cutting-edge design and in Hyde Park itself. The hotel is close to the University of Chicago and the new David Rubenstein Forum, as well as the Museum of Science & Industry and Frank Lloyd Wright’s landmark Robie House. It’s also walking distance to the site of the future Obama Presidential Center in historic Jackson Park, which breaks ground in September 2021. SOPHY offers you a choice of three specials:,s
SO-Chicago
• A two-night stay • 10% off your tab in Mesler Chicago restaurant • Two tickets for 360 degree views of Chicago from the top of the John Hancock building • Two tickets for one ride on TILT, Chicago’s highest thrill ride, in the Hancock building • One 6x8 souvenir photo
Spring In Chicago
• 10% off SOPHY’s best available rate when guests prepay their stay.
Stay Two Nights - Third Night’s On Us
• This is simply delightful springtime math. Check into one of SOPHY’s artfully appointed guest rooms, pay for two nights, and get the third night free. All packages are based on double occupancy and availability. Rates exclude taxes and fees. For reservations, please go to https://sophyhotel.com/packages-specials
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Places to Go:
Brown County When it comes to state parks in Indiana, Brown County State Park is consiered the largest. It has been nicknamed the “Little Smokies” due to such a resemblance to the Great Smoky Mountains. This park encompasses nearly 16,000 acres of rugged hills, ridges, and fog-shrouded ravines, with nearly 20-miles of tree-lined roads and many scenic vistas overlooking miles of uninterrupted forestland. The rolling hills, yellowwood trees, and scenic views are breathtaking. The park was just officially added to the National Register of Historic Places as the largest historic district in Indiana. Established in 1924, it is also one of the larger state parks in the United States. The park includes the historic Abe Martin Lodge, large swimming pool, and cabins built in the early 1930’s. Visitors arriving at the north gate will pass through a covered bridge, which crosses Salt Creek. Built by Henry Wolf in 1838, it is the only double tunnel covered bridge in Indiana and one of four in the United States. Inside the park, you’ll find the rustic Abe Martin Lodge, which offers accommodations to include 84 hotel rooms, individual cabins, dining at Little Gem Restaurant, and conference facilities. Enjoy the Lodge’s water park with twisting slides and lazy rivers, play some games in the game room or sit by the fireplace and read a good book. That’s not all you’ll find as the State Park is home to large -48- | WEEKENDEREXTENDED.COM ~ May, 2021
campgrounds, fun hiking trails, and nationally-recognized mountain biking trails. There is a nature center, an amphitheater, saddle barn for guided horse rides and two lakes for fishing and canoeing or kayaking. You must bring your own equipment, however, because there is no boat rental available in the park. There is a 90-foot fire tower – climb it to get excellent views of the rolling midwest hills! Check out the Nature Center – inside you can get a glimpse of the rare timber rattlesnake. Also, the outdoor Interpretive Gardens can be found at the Nature Center. Don’t miss the gorgeous view behind the Nature Center. Take the 7 Vista Challenge – visit all of the seven scenic vistas in the park and snap a photo in the picture frames they’ve created. Post your photos using the hashtag #7VistaChallenge and stop by the Brown County Visitors Bureau for a 7 Vista Challenge Sticker once you’ve completed all seven photos. Mountain biking trails are a popular activity in the park – don’t forget to bring your bikes. Additionally, there are trails for horseback riding and a saddle barn.
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Things to Do:
Play in the Park
Spring Mill State Park has received new playground at the Donaldson Cave parking lot near Donaldson Shelter thanks to a grant from the Smithville Foundation and donations from local businesses.Spring Mill playground The playground is designed for ages 5-10 and is ready for use. Friends of Spring Mill State Park board members Amber Hill and Teena Ligman wrote the Smithville Foundation grant, and that money was matched by Burke Play-
grounds and Snider Recreation. VFW Post 9107 also contributed. For more information, contact Spring Mill State Park at 812-849-3534. Spring Mill State Park on.IN.gov/springmill is at 3333 State Road 60 East, Mitchell, 47446.
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Places to Go:
Lauridson Skate Park
DES MOINES - Set to become the largest skatepark in the nation, the Lauridsen Skatepark grand opening is scheduled for May 22. The worldclass skatepark is destined to become the spot to watch locals and skate enthusiasts attempt ollies and kickfl ips. Edging the Des Moines River downtown — with views of bridges, the Robert D. Ray Asian Gardens, and Wells Fargo Arena — the park has five skating areas, with the potential to host world-class professional events. (Fun fact: Skateboarding debuts as an Olympic sport Summer 2021 in Tokyo!) The 88,000-square-foot park runs adjacent to Principal Riverwalk Park just south of the interstate. Cruise the promenade on your longboard or enjoy spectating with your knees and elbows un-
scraped. The skatepark is accessible from the 5-mile urban trail, connecting to the 800-mile central Iowa trail network (find BCycle bike rentals throughout downtown). Also part of the Skatepark, a fire engine red “WOW” sculpture (the city’s latest art installation) serves as a focal point. At 80 feet long and 12 feet high, skaters can ride the metal structure forming the letters, while casual strollers can snap photos for their social feeds. For more information about the specific features, visit dsmskatepark.com.
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Things to Do:
Fun in the Water Cheney State Park and Reservoir, Cheney Steady breezes have made Cheney Reservoir one of the nation’s top windsurfing and sailing lakes. Dozens (and sometimes hundreds) of colorful sailboats grace the lake during regattas, creating an exhilarating sight for those relaxing on the sandy beaches. Tuttle Creek State Park, Manhattan Anglers snag white bass on the reservoir and catch trout on the small lake in the forested River Pond area. Numerous canoes, kayaks and pedal boats (available for rent) allow visitors to explore coves and tallgrass prairie along the shoreline, making this the unofficial Paddle Sport Capital of Kansas. Kaw River State Park, Topeka Launch canoes, kayaks and other small crafts from Kansas’ only free state park. Also the only urban park in the state park system, the area features hiking and mountain biking trails on the south bank of the oak- and hickory-lined Kansas River, within 5 miles of downtown Topeka. Great Parks for Camping Lake Scott State Park, Scott City A pristine swimming beach lures families to the spring-fed fishing lake with canoe and pedal boat rentals. History-lovers discover El Cuartelejo, the remains of the northernmost pueblo in the United States, before settling into campsites snuggled up to rocky bluffs and wooded areas. Cedar Bluff State Park and Reservoir, Ellis The mostly untouched Page Creek Area, with its sandy shorelines and jagged limestone bluffs on the reservoir’s south shore, draws campers seeking solitude. Visitors windsurf, water ski, pitch horseshoes and play sand volleyball in the Bluffton Area -52- | WEEKENDEREXTENDED.COM ~ May, 2021
on the north shore. The park also offers wheelchair-accessible fishing. Eisenhower State Park, Osage City Four modern cabins and two yurts, plus more than 100 electric and primitive campsites set among woodlands and prairie, provide a variety of options at the park named for native Kansan Dwight D. Eisenhower. Stop by Ike’s General Store at Doud Campground for souvenirs, and play at the nearby disc golf course, sand volleyball court and horseshoe pits.
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Things to Do:
Take a Thrill Ride
W
ith more than 100 state parks across Michigan to visit, how do you decide where to go? Your journey will offer experiences from rustic outposts to sandy beaches, from maritime explorations to bird watching and from towering sand formations to a gushing freshwater spring. Our parks offer a treasure of experiences coupled with great adventure and endless fun. At Silver Lake State Park, near Mears, you’ll love the toys in this grown-up playground—the kind with roaring engines and balloon tires that spray sand. Play Thrill-seekers can bring or rent off-road vehicles to blast up the steep slopes and bounce over ridges in the 400 acres of sand dunes. Or sign up
for a dune buggy adventure with Mac Wood’s Dune Rides which willopen for the season May 14. During breaks, hunt for fulgurites—crusts of glass formed when lightning strikes dune sands. Visit one of the tallest working lighthouses on Lake Michigan. The Little Sable Point Lighthouse is 115 feet high and one of the tallest working lighthouses on Lake Michigan, visible for 19 miles. In continuous operation since 1874, it is a guardian to ships that pass the Silver Lake Sand Dunes at Mears, Michigan. The lighthouse is located 1 1/2 miles west of Mac Wood’s. The lighthouse is now open for tours! Call the State Park for dates and hours of operation. 231-8733083. Rates are $5 for Adults and $2 for kids.
Located in Oceana County and totaling 3000 acres, there are more than four miles of Lake Michigan shoreline. Stay in one of more than 200 campsites along Silver Lake. This campgound has lectrical service and modern restrooms, a large sandy swimming beach, and an off-road vehicle scramble area. Visitors come from all over the world to ride the only sand dunes open to ORVs east of the Mississippi. For more information, visit https://www2.dnr.state.mi.us/parksandtrails/Details.aspx?id=493&type=SPRK
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Go, See, Do:
Along the North Shore
Minnesota’s North Shore stands out for its wide open spaces and abundant natural beauty. Whether out for a day trip to explore a few lakeside attractions or planning an extended road trip to camp, hike, and bike among Minnesota’s endless natural beauty, there’s no wrong way to embrace the North Shore this summer Kick off your trip with a walk through Duluth’s famed Canal Park, a central hub of urban life in the city. Situated between the city’s vibrant downtown and serene waterfront, the expansive park features more than four miles of walking paths and access to Park Point, which comprises an impressive 4-mile stretch of the world’s largest freshwater sand-
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bar. Grab a to-go pie from Vitta Pizza for a lakefront picnic where, if you’re lucky, you’ll catch sight of a 1,000-foot freighter passing under the iconic Aerial Lift Bridge. Just 40 miles up the Shore lies one of the state’s most stunning sights—Gooseberry Falls. More than 20 miles of hiking trails weave between the falls, lakeshore and surrounding crag-laden forests in Gooseberry Falls State Park. Pick up a few sandwiches and a pie (you’ll work up an appetite on the trails) from the local favorite Rustic Inn Cafe, just a few miles south of the park entrance. The park features several campsites, so pack accordingly (though be sure to check with the local State Park office before, as certain sites are closed for the season for health and safety reasons). Only 35 miles along the shore from Grand Marais lies the his-
toric Grand Portage National Monument in the homeland of the Grand Portage Ojibwe. The name comes from the 8.5-mile portage trail that traders and the Ojibwe used to bypass the dangerous falls and rapids in order to trade. After walking the trail, visit the onsite historic structures to learn about the region’s indigenous cultures and gain insight into how the traders and Ojibwe lived hundreds of years ago. A few miles north of the monument lies Grand Portage State Park and the Canadian border. There’s no better way to cap off a North Shore trip than a hike to High Falls on the Pigeon River, the highest waterfall in the state.
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Watch th Things to Do:
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he Birds COLUMBIA - There are many reasons to love Columbia - the food, the festivals, the art, the music, the people - but many have an affinity for this college town for the opportunities it offers for an outdoor escape. City parks, state parks and trails galore make Columbia an outdoor enthusiast’s go-to in Central Missouri. The same parks and trails also make Columbia a bird-watcher’s paradise, too. Missouri’s diversity of natural habitat means that over 320 species of birds regularly visit the state providing “birders” of all stripes - whether casual, beginner or experienced - the opportunity to catch a colorful array of avian creatures in their natural settings. “Columbia is an awesome place to be a birder,” says Sarah Kendrick, state ornithologist for the Missouri Department of Conservation. “Columbia’s extensive trail systems and public spaces provide a lot of green space for birds to use year-round. Public lands just outside of town are also great for birding.” The Great Missouri Birding Trail, a statewide initiative between the Missouri Bird Conservation Foundation and the Missouri Department of Conservation, is a great resource for anyone interested in bird-watching in the “Show-Me State.” The Birding Trail is comprised of over 170 designated locations around the state where birders will find the most success with their observations. The Great Missouri Birding Trail website also features interactive maps of the six distinct birding regions, details on Missouri’s bird habitats, tips for successful birding, lists of bird checklists based on region, and additional helpful information for anyone interested in bird-watching.
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Go, See, Do
Arbor Lodge State Historical Park
The former estate of the founder of Arbor Day, this park features a mansion, arboretum & trail. It was here in 1872 that J. Sterling Morton and his wife Caroline conceived the idea for the first Arbor Day as a way to encourage people everywhere to plant trees so desperately needed. On the first Arbor Day, nearly one million trees were planted in Nebraska. The highlight of this 72-acre park is the historic mansion, with its 52 rooms and countless historic artifacts belonging to the Morton Family. The park also includes an arboretum, Italian terraced garden, log cabin, carriage house, walking trails, more than 200 varieties of lilacs and a charming whispering bench. The park grounds are open year-round; a park permit is not required to enter. The mansion is open for tours and special events under the direction of -58- | WEEKENDEREXTENDED.COM ~ May, 2021
the Arbor Day Foundation. Play. Explore. Be inspired. And never touch the ground. Treetop Village is a three-acre, fun-for-all-ages nature experience up in the trees. It is the only place in America where you can climb and scamper from treehouse to treehouse – all 11 of them – without ever touching the ground. This uniquely designed attraction is the first of its kind to be completed in the U.S. And, it’s the first in North America to feature the WonderNet, a large, raised (and incredibly fun) area for jumping, playing, and bringing out the kid in everyone. You won’t want to leave! For more activities and information, visit online at https://www.arbordayfarm.org/
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Things to Do:
Do it All Here MANDAN - Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park is the place in North Dakota that truly has it all. You can step back in time, into nature, and into fun when you plan an extended weekend getaway at this destination. As the oldest state park in the state (established in 1907); camping; exploring the history; investigating artifacts; and taking the Trolley are all included on the suggested bucket list for guests. There are trails for hiking, biking, and evenhorseback riding. There’s no other state park in North Dakota that can say it has quite as much to see and do as this one. The trolley is actually the only one in the state still running. This is the best way to relax while you enjoy the ride through the scenic area. The park is namely known for its historic significance. It is the original grounds of Fort Abraham Lincoln, once the residence of the famous George Armstrong Custer and his men. Today you can explore the remnants and reconstructed parts of the fort. From barracks to towers and even Custer’s house, you can see the history by taking tours of the park while you’re visiting. An old cavalry cemetery is at the park which adds more to the history and stories behind this place.
The On-A-Slant Village in the park is a recreated earth lodge village that used to be all across the prairie and were the homes of the Mandan people. Like with the other buildings at this park, you can step inside and get a taste of what life was like back then. Visitors can stay overnight in a tipi, cabin or one of over 100 campsites along the majestic rivers. Open seasonally, the cabins have air conditioning, heat and a small refrigerator. The cabins sleep five with one queen bed and three single beds, set up bunkbed style. Anglers can find success along the shorelines of both the Missouri and Heart Rivers. Nearly 100 parking sites are almost literally on the water’s edge and in the middle of the park, so almost everything you want to do is within easy walking distance. A brand new education program “Discovering Fort Abraham Lincoln” is designed to introduce elementary-age kids to the historical and nature-based components of the park. Sessions are for small home school or classroom groups. For more information, visit online at parkrec.nd.gov/fortabraham-lincoln-state-park. For reservations, call 800-8074723.
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Things To Do:
Camp on the Water TROY – Thousands of people spend time on the Great Miami River, one of only 22 national water trails, every year…canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. Have you ever wondered what it would be like to camp on the river? In Troy, Ohio, outdoor enthusiasts can experience Ohio’s first and only public floating-tent experience. Located at Treasure Island Park, in Troy, the Float Troy experience, uses Shoal floating tents manufactured in Miami County by Smithfly. A first of its kind, the Shoal Tent is an inflatable, floating raft with a tent topper that allows campers to sleep out on the water. The tents come inflated, anchored, and ready to use with several amenities to provide an enjoyable experience. In addition to the tent, each rental includes a kayak or raft to travel to and from the shore, oars, and life vests. Do not forget to bring the Smores supplies…there are four floating fire pits located in the river near the tents and are available free of charge. In addition, there are two grills, a shelter, and restrooms on the shore for all Float Troy guests. To learn more about Float Troy or request a tent, visit www.float-troy.com. Along the Great Miami River is the Great Miami Recreational Trail, which is part of the nation’s largest paved trail network. Campers should bring their bikes and running shoes because they will want to take advantage of having the bike path so close. It’s okay if you don’t own a bike, J & D Bicycles is located right across the street from Treasure Island Park and offers bike rentals. To round out your outdoor adventures, in -60- | WEEKENDEREXTENDED.COM ~ May, 2021
addition to the river and the recreational trail, Miami County is filled with fantastic parks, waterfalls, and Brukner Nature Center where you can hike, bird watch, and learn about a variety of animals. Brukner also has some very special animal ambassadors that love to see visitors. If you prefer to sample the local fare rather than roast hot dogs over the fire, downtown Troy, and Miami County, offer a variety of local restaurants to fit anyone’s taste buds. From tacos and steak to burgers and milkshakes, everyone in the group will be happy. And, make sure to check out the local shops while in any of the nearby historic downtown communities…you never know what treasures you will find. Often, if the timing is right, an overnight in the shoal tent coincides with one of Troy’s summer concerts. When this happens, visitors can enjoy the music or watch the fireworks on the Fourth of July right from the tent or in a kayak on the river. In addition to summer concerts, there are events happening all summer long throughout Miami County. Before visiting, check out the current list of events on the visitor bureau’s website at www. homegrowngreat.com. For additional information on places to see, things to do and where to eat and shop while in Miami County, visit www.homegrowngreat.com and start planning your adventure today.
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Things to Do:
at African Safari
African Safari Wildlife Park has partnered with Wendy’s® for some WILD Summer discounts! PORT CLINTON - African Safari Wildlife Park has partnered with Wendy’s® in the Greater Toledo area, Ohio and Adrian and Tecumseh, MI for discounts on WILD summer fun! At participating restaurants through May 28th, scan the QR Code to purchase discounted tickets to African Safari Wildlife Park! Discounted tickets are available for a one day admission, for any age, until December 5, 2021. Click here for a complete list of participating restaurants. Be sure to check out African Safari’s special Facebook Giveaway on May 20th for a chance to win a $20 Wendy’s gift card and a 6 Person VIP Pass to the Park! Then Drive your own car through and get in touch with your WILD side with hundreds of exotic animals! Have you ever fed a Bison? Have have you ever been nose-tonose with a Giraffe? If not, you will in the Drive-Thru area of the Safari!
In the walk-thrusection there are more exotic animals to experience along with EdZPPcation programs. There is a HogWILD experience, an Aviary Adventure and even rides available on a camel. From Alpaca to Zebra, you’ll see it all at THE Ohio Safari Park! African Safari Wildlife Park, is located at 267 S. Lightner Rd. in Port Clinton, Ohio. they are open daily, rain or shine, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. with the last car admitted at 4 p.m.. Expanded hours are available on weekends and summer months. For a complete schedule of hours, to reserve tickets, or more informaiton, visit https://www. africansafariwildlifepark.com/
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Things to Do:
Win a Getaway! Win a 2021 or 2022 South Dakota Vacation by entering the SOUTH DAKOTA GREAT GIVEAWAY SWEEPSTAKES! Half the fun of a vacation is the anticipation, especially when you’re looking forward to visiting South Dakota’s great places. Enter for a chance to win a $3,500 travel voucher, good for one unforgettable adventure. See the iconic 60-foot stone faces of Mount Rushmore National Memorial. Get a rare chance to see creation in action at Crazy Horse Memorial, the world’s largest in-progress mountain carving. Wander the otherworldly landscapes of Badlands National Park. Experience history that is alive and waiting for you, from the area’s Native American residents to the Wild West. There’s no other place where you can check so many things off your bucket list. ENTER FOR A CHANCE TO WIN THE WINNER WILL BE AWARDED A $3,500 TRAVEL VOUCHER TO FUND THEIR ADVENTURE. Deadline to apply is July 31, 2021. Limit of one entry per person and you must be at the Legal Age of Majority for your state (18 in most cases) or older to enter. For valid use of the voucher, book your trip by December 31, 2021, and travel by December 31, 2022. To enter, go to https://www.travelsouthdakota.com/GreatGiveaway -62- | WEEKENDEREXTENDED.COM ~ May, 2021
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Door County State Parks There are, not one or two, but FIVE state parks located in Door County. So if hiking, biking, bird watching or sightseeing is on your list for your next extended weekend getaway, Door County is worth visiting.
Our first destination is Door County’s most popular and one of the most-visited in the Wisconsin park system, Peninsula State Park. It is the region’s idyllic and iconic lakeside adventure destination. Come here to swim and sun at the vibrant Nicolet Beach, take on a full 18-hole golf course with scenic lake views, boat and kayak along the shore or to Horseshoe Island, traverse the Sunset Bike Trail, hike the magical Eagle Trail, take a scenic drive up and down Skyline Road, take a lighthouse tour, sleep under the stars at more than 400 campsites, and experience theater in the woods. It’s a can’t-miss for Door County visitors and Wisconsin state park enthusiasts alike. Newport State Park is located in a remote pocket on the northeast side of the peninsula is ideal for those looking to strap
tallest sand dunes, nearly 15 miles of beachy and woodsy hiking, photogenic wooden staircases leading to the beach, boating and fishing, swimming, and stunning lake and shoreline views. on a backpack and head into the woods for a few days. All campsites require an at least 1-mile hike-in, meaning you’ll need to be able to carry everything you need on your back. But, for those willing to make the trek, the rewards are quiet, secluded campsites where you truly feel like you are a part of nature, a serene inland lake perfect for paddling, miles of Lake Michigan-hugging hiking trails, almost 30 miles of mountain biking trails, hidden shoreline coves, lake views for days, and one of the best locations for star-gazing in the country.
Take a walk (or hike or paddle or ride) on the quiet side. Whitefish Dunes State Park is located on the east side of the Door peninsula where the atmosphere is typically quieter, calmer, and a little slower. Come here for the beach-less-traveled as well as some of the state’s
Potawatomi State Park doesn’t always get the hype the other Door County state parks do, but it is absolutely just as beautiful and suitable for adventure as any other. Think steep rolling hills, jagged limestone cliffs, sweeping lake views, a huge variety of animal and plant life. Come here for secluded biking and hiking, water sports like boating and fishing, two miles of Green Bay shoreline, and plenty of family-friendly campsites. Thru-hiking enthusiasts can also visit (or set out from) the eastern terminus of the Ice Age Trail in Potawatomi State Park. Find one of the end points of this iconic National Scenic Trail on the north side of the park near the boat launch. Unfortunately, Rock Island State Park is still closed due to Covid-19 regulations.
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Places to Go:
Waterpark Country
Did you know the US explosion of the indoor water park was pioneered in Wisconsin Dells? The Polynesian Water Park Resort was the first property in the nation to introduce the indoor waterpark concept; that was back in 1989. It started with a sketch on a napkin after local business partners attended a waterpark convention in Texas. No kidding – the blueprint for the first indoor waterpark was actually hand-drawn on a napkin. Today there are more than 20 destinations listed for water fun at https://wisdells.com, the CVB tourism website.The Polynesian Water Park Resort featuresBlackbeard’s Dark Tunnel Mystery Voyage, a two-story body water slide four hot tubs and more than 80 interactive water activities. The very first Great Wolf Lodge and Kalahara Resorts call Wisconsin Dells their home. Meadowbrook Resort is a premier Northwoods water adventure theme resort where scenery and nature abound with a babbling brook and nightly campfires. -64- | WEEKENDEREXTENDED.COM ~ May, 2021
Natura Treescape Resort consists of suites, treehouses, cabins and RV Sites. Included with stay - Noah’s Ark Waterpark & Timbavati Wildlife Park passes. However, nationally known as being “The Waterpark Capital of the World!®” isn’t the only reason to visit Wisconsin Dells. Featuring the latest in live entertainment, thrilling attractions, luxe to cozy accommodations, and dining options to please any palate complete this destination as a top extended weekend getaway. Lively music, old-fashioned festivals, classic cars, sporting events and even a Waterslide-athon fill the calendar through the entire year. Enjoy the Dells with the locals as funfilled festivities change with the season. For more information and a complete list of water properties, visit https://www.wisdells. com/wisconsin-dells-hotels/water-properties. htm.
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Tour Mammoth Cave
Rolling hills, deep river valleys, and the worlds longest known cave system. Mammoth Cave National Park is home to thousands of years of human history and a rich diversity of plant and animal life, earning it the title of UNESCO World Heritage Site and International Biosphere Reserve. With 405 miles of surveyed passageways, the Mammoth-Flint Ridge Cave System blows its competition out of the water: It’s by far the longest known cave system in the world. The national park— which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an international Biosphere Reserve—was called “a grand, gloomy, and peculiar place” by one of its earliest guides, and this simple description sticks.
Park rangers offer several types of tours, ranging in length from one hour to six, depending how long you’re interested (and comfortable) exploring the limestone labyrinth. Not to worry, the geologic makeup of this sandstone-capped limestone cave means it’s unusually stable. Celebrate the International Year of Caves and Karst by participating in a regional and national art contest hosted by the NPS! The theme for this year’s art contest is “Discover what’s under your National Park.” Entries will be accepted until June 12th, 2021. Please follow the Contest Guidelines listed on the Cave and Karst Art Contest site when submitting your Mammoth Cave inspired art.
Mammoth Cave, by far the world’s longest cave system, is currently mapped at 412 miles (663 km) and is still growing. The cave is a labyrinth of passages that wind through the expansive karst topography and limestone layers that lay beneath the rolling and forested hills of south-central Kentucky. Specialized and interconnected ecosystems are home to a broad diversity of species such as eyeless fish, the Kentucky cave shrimp, cave crickets, and pack rats who are dependent on the cave environment for their survival. Stay in comfort a short distance from the entrance to Mammoth Cave. Three campgrounds and over 13 backcountry sites await campers at Mammoth Cave. The Lodge at Mammoth Cave offers the closest option for overnight stays in the park. The Lodge is located directly next to the visitor center, and features a mix of modern hotel rooms as well as historic cottages nestled in a woodland setting all within walking distance to cave tours and park trails. For more information, visit https://www.nps.gov/maca/index.htm
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Places to Go:
Andy’s Mount Pilot
Andy Griffith’s television comedy series was set in the fiction village of Mayberry. Cast members often referred to a nearby town of “Mount Pilot.” The story behind the show is: so much of Mayberry was patterned after Griffith’s hometown, Mount Airy, North Carolina. Only 11.6 miles southeast of Mount Airy is the actual town of Pilot Mountain, known as the “big city” of Mount Pilot.. Pilot Mountain State Park, just south of town, has two pinnacles. Big Pinnacle is a 1,400-foot wall of bare rock covered by vegetation on top. Once a navigational landmark for the Saura tribe, the Big Pinnacle can be viewed from the park’s summit area, which also provides panoramic views of the Piedmont and the Sauratown and Blue Ridge mountains. It is connected to Little Pinnacle by a narrow saddle. It is a short hike from the parking area. The -66- | WEEKENDEREXTENDED.COM ~ May, 2021
main park road is popular for hill climbing by bicycle. Camping, canoeing, rock climbing, fishing and hiking are all available. Pilot Mountain State Park centers around the iconic geologic knob that serves as a beacon to the surrounding Piedmont, inviting outdoor enthusiasts to a vast array of activities. Trails take hikers around the mountain base, up Little Pinnacle, and along the Yadkin River. The park also offers bridle trails along the trail corridor connecting the mountain and river sections. Rock climbing and rappelling are allowed on portions of the park’s steep cliffs. Two of North Carolina’s state trails traverse the park: the Mountains-toSea State Trail, as well as the Yadkin River paddle trail. A new visitor center with exhibits that focus on the natural and cultural history of the area augment the park’s educational programs. Other activities available to the area
are the Carolina Ziplines, shopping at Mount Pilot Country Store, and playing golf at the Pilot Knob Park Golf Club. The lower slopes of Pilot Mountain offer tent and trailer camping, while the river section has two paddle-in campsites for nights along the river. If rough camping isn’t your thing, there are several cabins and cottages availble. You can even stay overnight in Andy’s boyhood home, complete with his birth certificate on the wall. At the 98-acre Ridenour Ranch, a private one-bedroom rustic condo is perfect for couples. Or a family of four can reserve their updated cabin or antebellum farmhouse and enjoy farm animals including the unusual alpacas and llamas. https://www.yadkinvalleync.com/pilot-mountain/
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Places to Go:
Pollinator Park
CALHOUN FALLS/PRNewswire/ -- Poln8rs Plus, a non-profit conservation organization, is purchasing 134 acres near Calhoun Falls in Abbeville County to open a first of its kind fully dedicated Pollinator Park. When completed, this amazing agri-tourism attraction will feature a whopping 20 miles of well-maintained native perennial wildflower beds, with mowed paths between each bed. There will also be at least twenty acres of pick-your-own commercial berry production, at least ten acres of sunflowers, a large vegetable garden, a large herb garden, hundreds of Muscadine grapevines, and all kinds of other native trees, shrubs, and vines. Centrally located between Charlotte to the east, Atlanta to the west, and Charleston to the south, the park will also welcome overnight guests with shaded camp sites, RV hook-ups, and possibly a few Glamping sites as well. There are currently two ponds on the properties. There are also plans for a nature center, complete with a gift shop. The park is located in an excellent dark sky location, so nights sky observations will take place at least once per month. The park will have a telescope on site, but visitors will be welcome to bring their own equipment as well. Along with all of these other features, perhaps the coolest and most important feature of all will be
that the long-term goal is for the entire park to be totally off-grid, with zero fuels burned on the property. Eventually all vehicles and equipment will be electric, and there will be a large display of assorted models of solar space heaters, solar water heaters, solar ovens, and many other solar heat-activated devices. We will also implement rain water harvesting, with bio-sand water filtration and solar sterilization. All wildlife, plants and animals observed on the Pollinator Park property will be photographed and recorded on iNaturalist. We will also encourage wildlife conservation research and environmental research at the Pollinator Park in any and every way that we can. The first native wildflowers will begin blooming this summer and there will be a spectacular display of butterfly and pollinator attracting native wildflowers in bloom beginning in late September. Pickyour-own berry production will begin in 2022, and include acres of Blackberries, Blueberries, Strawberries, and Muscadine Grapes. For more information about the park, visit www. poln8rsplus.org. For more on South Carolina
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The Historic Collinsville Pioneer Settlement Go, Do, See:
MONTGOMERY COUNTY - Opening June 5-6., this 40-acre, open-air property showcases pioneer life from 1840-1900 with 16 authentically-furnished buildings. A new feature visitors may enjoy this year is the addition of audio tours. “There’s so much to take in and experience, especially if you’re a first-time visitor,” says Visit Clarksville Executive Director Theresa Harrington, the entity that manages the property. “To help us be diligent with social distancing recommendations, and as a cost-effective alternative to in-person guides, we created a way for visitors to hear the stories of the buildings in authentic voices. Visitors can scan QR codes from a printed map on their phones and hear details and interesting facts about each structure or room.” Funding for producing the audio program was provided by a CARES grant through the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development. Narrators Frank Lott, executive director at the Customs House Museum and Cultural Center and Ellen Kanervo, director at the Arts & Heritage Development Council, volunteered their time and talents to share the stories. Tickets for all special events will be available at least one month in advance on each
event listing at www.historiccollinsville.com/events. The pioneer settlement opened in 1974 to give children a “hands-on” experience outside of the classroom about life from the 1840s through the turn of the century. It has been open to the public since 1997, recreating the past with restored historical structures, each filled with authentic period furnishings that show a glimpse of life before and after the Civil War. Once at Collinsville, guests can stroll through a re-creation of the past from the earliest “first home” to the expansive Dogtrot House, a tobacco-drying house, smokehouse, church/schoolhouse, wildlife center, loom house, cobbler’s shop, teacher’s home and more. Picnic tables are placed throughout the property and a covered pavilion with tables and restrooms is also on site. A
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visitor center greets guests and offers period souvenirs. From June 5-Oct. 30, Historic Collinsville is open Saturdays from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. and Sundays 1 – 4 p.m. Regular admission is $8 for ages six and up. www.historiccollinsville.com. Special Events June 5-6 / Blacksmith demonstrations. June 18 / Murder Mystery Dinner June 25 / Wine Walk; Beer Brows Aug. 14 / Souothside Summer Music Aug. 28 / 1800s How-To Day Oct. 30 - Season Closes
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Go, See, Do
Colonial Heights
COLONIAL HEIGHTS - Hundreds of Experts and thousands of ideas are to take place at the Tri Cities Home and Garden Show. Sponsored and hosted by the Colonial Heights Chamber of Commerce, you are sure to find something new for your home - indoors and outdoors! For one weekend, you’ll find wall-to-wall displays and exhibits. You’ll also have the opportunity to speak directly with experts and receive the advice and inspiration you need to turn your dream home or other home improvement project into a reality. Learn the latest trends in design, product offerings, maintenance tips, and more on everything to do with kitchen and bath remodeling, roofing, flooring, home security, water conditioning, insulation, windows and exterior products, and much more. You’ll find something for everyone at the Tri Cities Home & Garden Show! It’s a HOME SHOW, GARDEN SHOW! Where you can hire contractors -70- | WEEKENDEREXTENDED.COM ~ May, 2021
or landscapers AND shop and save on products, services and décor from over 100 exhibitors! There are hundreds of home improvement ideas, along with outdoor living displays and beautifully themed gardens! Mark your calendars today for May 21 and 22 to attend at the Former Sears Building in Southpark Mall. Hours are 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. both days. Admission is free. However, reservations are required and available on eventbrite.com or https://www.tricitieshomeandgardenshow.com/ due to COVID-19 guidelines. Remember, it’s Hundreds of Experts! Thousands of Ideas!
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Things to Do:
Harpers Ferry National Historical Park
Harpers Ferry National Historical Park provides numerous experiences for its guests. So step back in time to visit the various historical sites like Jefferson Rock, John Brown’s Fort and The Point. The national park, wedged between the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers, is home to the historical raid of famous abolitionist John Brown and Civil War battle sites, as well as the Appalachian Trail, which stretches down the spine of the mountain chain. When seeking out some historical locations, visitors can flock to Lower Town, which is filled with museums and exhibits, including John Brown’s Fort and The Point, a scenic hangout overlooking the confluence of the two rivers as they flow towards the Ches-
apeake Bay. Stand at The Point and overlook three states: Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia. A little bit further out of “town,” you can visit famous Civil War battle sites, including Bolivar Heights, which, according to the National Park Service website, is “one of the most important Civil War battlefields in West Virginia.” Aside from Civil War historical features, the national park also offers “historic trade workshops” that provide an interactive and informative experience on trades and skills from the 1800s. There are miles and miles of hiking trails through the rolling hills.Dont miss overlooking the water gap in the Blue Ridge Mountains .
Harpers Ferry also acts as the unofficial halfway point of the 2,193-mile Appalachian National Scenic Trail and is home to the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, established in 1925, and leads the effort in maintaining and conserving the trail for future generations. A free Junior Ranger booklet is available for all children who are interested in exploring, learning, and protecting parks and admitted into the Junior Ranger program at Harpers Ferry. For more information, visit https://www.nps.gov/
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