Author: marklongmainstream (Page 44 of 174)

For millennia, humans have been captivated by the stunning beauty and crystal clear waters of one of America’s largest springs. Experience a Silver Springs Glass Bottom Boat Tour, Kayak the five-mile Silver River. Explore the Silver River Museum and Cracker Village. Camping, hiking, dining and shopping as well are all found within Silver Springs State Park. Silver Springs State Park is located at 5656 East Silver Springs Blvd., in Silver Springs, Florida. For more information, click here. No matter your interests, a visit to Silver Springs is an experience you won’t soon forget.

If your looking for a memorable hike you can discover a variety of hiking and nature trails ranging in length from less than one mile to a 4.1-mile loop. There are five different trails to choose from, two of my personal favorites are the Swamp Trail, and the Sinkhole Trail. For more information on the parks trails, click here.

The world famous Glass Bottom Boats have wowed visitors to Silver Springs since the 1870s with breathtaking views of underwater life and the many springs that feed the Silver River. In fact, the Glass Bottom Boat was invented here! Take a tour aboard one of the historic Glass Bottom Boats and marvel at the beauty and sheer size of Mammoth Spring, the river’s head spring. You’ll explore many other beautiful feeder springs and see countless species of fish, ancient Native American and Spanish artifacts and even underwater movie props from the days when Hollywood productions flourished at the park! For more information on the Boat Tours, click here.

The Silver River flows five miles from the head spring to its confluence with the Ocklawaha River, completely within the confines and protection of Silver Springs State Park. The river offers a wide, wild and scenic paddle through Florida’s heartland. This is a great opportunity to explore the Silver River! The park offers rental equipment, including canoes, kayaks or SUP boards, and even provide shuttle service so you can float down stream to Ray Wayside Park and park staff will bring you back to the park.

If that wasn’t enough, there is also dining, shopping, and even an incredible museum. The park is open 7 days a week, year round from 8 am to sundown. There is a $2.00 fee to enter the park.

With so much to see and do, many times guest decide to stay for the week. This gives them ample opportunity to see all the park has to offer. Silver Springs has options to accommodate guests lodging needs. Silver Springs State Park’s campground offers Cabins, RV and Tent Sites, and Group Primitive Camp Sites. For more information, on the camping sites and cabin rentals available, click here.

For more great parks and amazing locations in Florida, click here. For nearby lodging and campgrounds in the area, click here. For the best family activities in Florida, click here.

Hot Springs National Park in Arkansas is an incredible place to visit, and the park offers a wide variety of activities you can enjoy all year long! Hot Springs National Park is the only unit of the national park system that is actually mandated to give away its primary natural resource. The Ecosystem Supports 47 Naturally Heated Springs, many of which offer unique opportunities to visit. Even though there are no soaking opportunities outdoors, Bathhouse Row does have 2 available facilities that offer visitors the chance to fully submerge and relax in the thermal water. The thermal springs are piped directly into both of these bathhouses, offering users a true and authentic experience of the water. For more information on this, click here.

The spring water has always been the feature attraction at Hot Springs National Park, but there’s so much more to experience here than just what the name entails. The park spans more than 5,500 acres, which are prime for exploration. There Are 26 Miles of Hiking Trail found within the park, which over an excellent hiking experience.

The Springs Aren’t Volcanic- These unique, highly porous folds and faults in the rock to help create a route for rainwater to travel deep below the earth’s surface (as far as 8,000 feet below), slowly heating up as it goes. Eventually, the water hits a fault line and moves back up to the surface. The whole process takes about 4,400 years. As the water moves from under the surface, the heat helps dissolve minerals from the rocks, so when it emerges it already contains a variety of dissolved silica, calcium, calcium carbonate, magnesium, and potassium. Calcium carbonate, also known as limestone, can be seen deposited onto rocks.

Ancient thermal springs, mountain views, incredible geology, forested hikes, and abundant creeks – all in the middle of town – make Hot Springs National Park a unique and beautiful destination. There are numerous facts I found while researching this article. First: Hot Springs is the smallest National Park in the country with only 5,550 acres to explore. The average water temperature is 143 degrees. The water is also rich in minerals and in many cases is considered safe to drink. Drinking the hot springs water is perfectly normal, even encouraged. Thousands of visitors highly endorse the good quality of the hot springs water and fill bottles to take home.  Yellowstone is often considered the United States oldest national park. Hot Springs National Park is the oldest protected area in the National Park system.

Camping is also available within the park at Gulpha Gorge Campground. Campsites at Gulpha Gorge Campground vary in size and can accommodate both tents and recreational vehicles. All sites have full hookups: 30 and 50 amp electric, water and sewer connections. Sites are not pull-through. Each campsite has a picnic table, pedestal grill, and water. There are modern restrooms but no showers. Maximum occupancy is limited to eight people/two vehicles (one RV and one tent OR two tents) per site. At the time of this publication, Camping at Gulpha Gorge Campground costs $34 per night for all sites.

Walking paths have long been a part of Hot Springs National Park and the preceding Hot Springs Reservation. Today those walking paths form the base of the park’s trail system. There are two concentrated areas of hiking trails within the park, the Hot Springs and North Mountain Trails and the West Mountain Trails. Both of these areas are composed of relatively short, interconnected trails. The Sunset Trail is a longer trail that travels through more remote areas of the park.

Cyclists are allowed and welcome to ride on any of the paved roads in the park. The roads up to North Mountain and West Mountain maintain a progressive incline with moderate traffic, so please use caution and plan accordingly. The Pullman Trail has been designated for off road cycling.

The park is open year round and is an excellent place to visit during any season. Pictures used in this article are owned by the National Parks Service. For more great locations, within the great state of Arkansas, click here.

The Getaway Tree Suite is an authentic tiny-house Treehouse and Jacuzzi bath house nestled within seven trees on 10 wooded acres. The treehouse is located in Cassville Missouri, just minutes from Roaring River State Park! For more information, click here.  Prices start at just $216 a night!

The Getaway is surrounded with some of the Midwest’s most amazing parks and natural springs. The area is an absolute paradise for nature enthusiasts. As mentioned above Roaring River is  located nearby, there is also nearby fly fishing, a trout hatchery, numerous hiking trails, and even the famous Mark Twain National Forest is only 5 minutes away.

There is free WIFI, and a WiFI/Bluetooth campble TV for streaming Netflix and You Tube. There is Pluto TV, but no cable or satellite channels. 

The Getaway Treehouse is a magical place to become one with nature and getaway from all the problems and stress of the world. This is a great place for a romantic vacation as well as a hiking trip in the beautiful Missouri woods.
For more great lodging options, click here.

Weeki Wachee River

The Weeki Wachee River has an average flow rate of 112 million gallons of crystal clear spring water per day, year round water temperatures ranging from 72F to 74F, and frequent manatee visitors. We feel pretty safe saying this river defines the definition of paradise. The river is filled with a number of animals that call Weeki Wachee River home. Manatees frequent the river, as do a number of fish, birds, and other mammals. Kayakers have reported seeing deer, herons, turtles, otters, and Florida’s favorite beast, the raccoon! Weeki Wachee Kayaking is open 7 days a week from 9 am to 5 pm, and is located at 8103 Cortez Blvd Weeki Wachee, Florida. For more information, click here.

Crystal City Under Ground

Located deep in the heart of the Midwest, lies a one of a kind kayaking experience that you will never forget.   Operated by Marsan Canoe and Kayak Tours, this amazing Adventure takes you into the depths of the long forgotten PPG no.9 glass mine. The 3 hour tour takes you up to 400 feet below ground, as you navigate your kayak through the flooded former sand mine.  On your tour you will pass such sights as the “Birth Canal,” “Gilligan’s Island,” “The Squeeze,” ” The Car Wash” and the “Townsend Center”which is the largest opening in the mine. All tours are run by expert guides of great personality, who do an outstanding job both guiding the tour and providing an interesting/entertaining history of the mine. They are open year round with a constant inside temperature of 61 degrees. The Crystal City Underground is located at 700 Crystal Ave, in Crystal City, Missouri. For more information, click here.

Upper Iowa River

The Upper Iowa River is perhaps the most widely-recognized river in Iowa and one of the first in the nation to be nominated as a national Wild and Scenic River. Thanks to 35 inches of rain per year, and hilly terrain, numerous waterfalls dot the landscape of the Upper Iowa River Watershed. Three waterfalls are located within walking distance of the river, and the largest spring in Minnesota, Odessa Spring, flows directly into the Upper Iowa River. The stretch of river from Granger Minnesota to Decorah Iowa is about 45 miles long, and offers some of the best scenery the Midwest has to offer! I usually camp at Chimney Rock Campground near Cresco, and launch into the river, 50 feet from my site. This is one of the most beautiful campgrounds I have visited. It’s right along the river, with towering bluffs just East of the property. From Chimney Rock Campground, I kayak down to Dunnings Spring, just West of the Ice Cave in Decorah. This entire trip takes about 5 hours.  Chimney Rock Campground and Randy’s Bluffton Campground both offer kayak rentals, and full shuttle service. I have used both in the past and feel comfortable recommending either one. This is one kayak trip you need to add to your bucket list, its really that good! For more information, click here.

Current River

The Current River is one of the most beautiful water trails in the Midwest.  With crystal clear water, towering bluffs, and several caves right along the river. The Current River is spring fed and moves through stunning Ozark landscapes, with bluffs ranging in height from 12 feet to 200 feet.  On the International Scale of River Difficulty, the Current River ranks as a Class 1 river, the easiest and safest rank. It is enjoyable for both beginners and experts. A float trip on the Current River is an experience you won’t forget. There are several hidden caves in the area, multiple fresh water springs, and even the ruins of an abandoned hospital hidden behind Welch Springs. The Current River forms in the southeastern portion of the Ozarks of Missouri and flows southeasterly out of the Ozarks into northeastern Arkansas.  There are several great options to access the river.   The most scenic section, stretches from Cedar Grove to Round Springs, about 29 miles. Need an outfitter? Akers Ferry Canoe Rental is a full service outfitter, providing shuttle services and has all the equipment you need for an unforgettable adventure. They are located in Salem Missouri right along the river. For more information, click here.

Buffalo River

The section between Baker Ford and Grinder’s Ferry Arkansas features scenic views and historical structures, landscapes and artifacts that you won’t want to miss. At the end of this float there is a beautiful limestone bluff that towers over one of the most popular swimming holes on the Buffalo River, so pull over and enjoy! This section of the river features the classic bluff lines and gorgeous scenery that is a trademark of the Buffalo National River. Lined with plenty of gravel bars for sightseeing or lunch breaks, this trip generally takes about 4 hours but can be made as long as you like by taking your time to enjoy the view. Along this part of the river is also one of the most popular swimming holes on the entire river so sit back, relax, and go with the flow. Need an outfitter?  Visit Buffalo River Outfitters by clicking here.

LaJolla Sea Caves

Some travel bloggers claim La Jolla is the best place in California for a kayaking trip. Take in the view of the striking sandstone sea cliffs along the coastline and prepare to explore one or all of the seven caves there. Paddle through the lush La Jolla Marine Reserve and the La Jolla Underwater Park too.   This is an exceptional place for any skill level of kayaker. Sign up for a guided tour. Spend 90 minutes on a kayaking cave tour. You can also opt for taking an inflatable kayak into the La Jolla Cove or even La Jolla Shores. Give yourself a few hours here.

Sup Kentucky

This one of a kind tour takes place in a flooded abandoned limestone mine. The tour lasts 90 minutes with 1 hour spent paddling.  For a more intimate experience tours are limited to 8 guests, and to make things interesting, you can take your pick between glass bottomed kayak or a stand-up paddleboard. Both vessels are outfitted with multicolored LED lights which illuminate the water underneath. The abandoned mine has around five miles of tunnels. And it’s all flooded from an underground aquifer. The mine’s tunnels are 60 feet in width and about 30 feet in height.  The main attraction of this epic float trip, with no doubt is the stunning underground waterfall. The waterfall is spring fed and is about 30  feet in height!  This is one of Kentucky’s most popular adventures, with tours limited to groups of 8, I highly suggest making reservations well in advance. Some dates will sell out fast. For more information, click here.

Emerald Cave Kayak Tour

River Dogz Las Vegas

The tour literally picks you up at your Las Vegas hotel and drives you to this little known attraction, located in Arizona. This stunning paradise is located about an hour drive away from the bright lights of beautiful Las Vegas. You’ve seen the casinos, enjoyed the shows, now its time to get away from it all and experience the serenity of Emerald Cave, a picturesque natural attraction on the Colorado River. This kayaking tour takes a small group max of 15 people paddling up the river with a guide. This trip is unmatched anywhere in the United States. This four mile tour takes place on the beautiful Colorado River. The highlight of the trip is no doubt the incredible Emerald Cave.  Prices start at $115 and this trip will fill up fast. Reservations are highly recommended.  For more information, click here.

The Rio Grande River

Santa Elena Canyon is the site of a kayaking trip in Big Bend which is unforgettable, where you can make your way through an awe-inspiring grotto of natural limestone tucked away in the mountains of far West Texas, like nothing you’ve ever seen before. Kayaking is the best way to experience the full wonder of Big Bend.  The Rio Grande River winds its way through the Santa Elena Canyon for 13 miles. This float trip is a bucket list worthy adventure, that you will never forget! Big Bend River Tours is a local outfitter providing trips for those of all skill levels.  Trips range in length from one to three days.  Allowing adventure seekers to camp out in some extraordinary locations. Along the kayak trail, you will pass unbelievable sights, including 1,500 foot high limestone bluffs. For more information, click here.

Colorado River

Link Jackson

Redwall Cavern is a massive sand cave hidden at the bottom of the Grand Canyon.  It’s been said the cave can hold upwards of 50,000 people. One of the things that makes it so special, is the journey it takes to reach the cave.  Redwall Cavern is only accessible via a paddling trip on the Colorado River. This adventure is one of the most underrated destinations in the Grand Canyon area. To begin planning your trip, click here.

WIldman Adventure Resort

Whether your looking for a relaxing float down the Peshtigo River or an adrenaline filled ride through  Pier’s Gorge on the Menominee River,  Wildman Adventure Resort is your one stop spot for relaxation, adventure, and fun! Wildman Adventure Resort has two amazing locations in the area, the Menominee Outpost and the Peshtigo River Outpost. At the Menominee Outpost you can enjoy whitewater rafting, ziplining, paintball, rock climbing, and golf. At the Peshtigo River Outpost activities include: whitewater rafting, paddle boarding, The Alpine Tower High Ropes Course, and kayaking lake tours. Wildman Adventure Resort, is located in Athelstane Wisconsin. For more information, click here.

Raft The Ausable Chasm

getty images

Get up close and personal with the river on a family rafting tour at Ausable Chasm. The scenic float tours are an exciting and memorable experience for the entire family. There is no minimum age for rafting, guests must be 30 lbs. and up*.  Departing from the formidable Table Rock, your rafting journey begins between the towering cliffs of the Grand Flume, the narrowest and deepest section of Ausable Chasm. Your guide will show you stunning rock formations such as the Sentry Box and Broken Needle before navigating through the rapids and around the Whirlpool Basin. The tour concludes with a picturesque glide to the landing area where our guides discuss the unique history of the chasm. For more information, click here.

Liquid Adventures

If your looking for the best kayak trip on Earth, look no further!  Liquid Adventures has been providing nature lovers with the outdoor experience of a lifetime, since 2004! Liquid Adventures is located in Seward Alaska, and more information can be found by clicking here. These popular excursions take place in Aialik Bay and the Northwestern Fjord, and take paddlers up close with two of nature’s amazing wonders: whales and glaciers. These trips vary in length and intensity. Adventures range from a few hours to a few weeks in length. This is the perfect trip for nature lovers, kayakers, photographers, adventure seekers or anyone who wants to experience the Alaskan coast! All trips are led by skilled guides who are some of the finest in the industry! Everything you will need  on the trip is provided in your adventure package.

For more great adventures, click here.

Blue Spring Natural Area

This picture is owned by Joel Catour

Missouri is absolutely loaded with incredible natural springs. However there is one that has incredible sapphire blue water it doesn’t even look real. However Blue Spring near Eminence is 100% real.  The spring is one of the deepest in the United States reaching depths of 310 feet in some areas. The spring looks very inviting, but unfortunately, swimming and wading in the spring are strictly prohibited to preserve its beauty. The park is located at  County Rd 535, in Ellington, Missouri. For more information, click here.

Dunning Spring and Ice Cave

Dunning Spring And Ice Cave is located along the Upper Iowa River in Decorah Iowa. The park features a 200 foot waterfall, an extensive trail system. numerous spots for picnics and even the famous Ice Cave. This is a gorgeous area that is a perfect place to spend a day exploring. Both the river and the spring are popular swim spots within the park, although the spring water is very cold. The park is located on Ice Cave Road in Decorah Iowa. You can’t miss it.

Jackson Falls

Jackson Falls is one of the best waterfalls in all of Illinois.  During the 5 mile hike to get to the base of the falls, you can also see two other waterfalls, along a beautiful canyon. During the summer months, Jackson Falls is a fantastic swimming hole.  But what’s even more stunning is the rocks that surround this area. There are numerous sandstone bluffs and freestanding boulders. Jackson Falls is located in Shawnee National Forest at Glen St Falls Rd, Simpson, IL 62985. For more information, click here.

Heritage Canyon

Heritage Canyon is a 12-acre wooded structure and nature walk dotted with buildings that take the visitor back to the 1800’s. Self-guided walking tours marked by numbered yellow arrows on brick paths will guide you through a pleasant experience. There is an ol church building which is still used for small wedding services to this day. There is also a covered bridge and numerous other structures along the path. The entire trail is surrounded with towering 200 foot high bluffs. Heritage Canyon is located at 515 North 4th street in Fulton Illinois.  The park is open daily from 9 to 5. For more information, click here.

Kitch-iti-kipi Spring

Palms Book State Park is home to one of the most impressive fresh-water natural springs in the world. This is easily one of Michigan’s most alluring natural attractions, and its gorgeous! Kitch-iti-kipi Spring is Michigan’s largest freshwater spring, spanning 200 feet across and 40 feet deep. The flow continues throughout the year at a constant 45 degrees Fahrenheit, gushing more than 10,000 gallons of water a minute from fissures in the underlying limestone. The park is located at M-149 (a mile north of the Co Rd 455 junction) in Manistique Michigan. For more information, click here.

For more Amazing Locations, click here.