Author: marklongmainstream (Page 57 of 174)

Ozark Mountain Adventure

Nestled on fifty-three acres in the heart of Branson, Missouri, a destination known for its family-friendly attractions, shows and lakes, is Ozark Mountain Adventure, offering a peaceful and secluded glamping adventure for those looking to unplug, rejuvenate, and renew. Leave the tents and camping gear at home and book online today – we think you’ll enjoy Branson’s first glamping adventure at Ozark Mountain Adventures. There are currently three gorgeous glamping tents available, each with its own unique style and set up. This incredible resort is located at 1720 Sunset Inn Road, in Branson, Missouri. For more information, click here. Or call (417) 263-0974.

Branson Treehouse Adventures

Looking for a unique vacation destination that you will never forget?  Look no further!  Branson Treehouse Adventures is the perfect location for your next family vacation.  Located in the heart of the Ozarks, this is the perfect place to let loose, unwind, and getaway from it all. This heavily wooded area is an outdoor paradise featuring 7 absolutely breathtaking tree-houses, as well as 6 gorgeous ground level cabins, there is also an RV campground featuring 67  sites with electricity, and 6 primitive sites perfect for tent camping! One weekend here, and you will never want to leave. Branson Treehouse Adventures is located at 159 Acorn Acres Ln, in Branson West, Missouri. For more information, click here.

Sunset Hills

Spend vacation in your own private paradise, the Country Cottage at Sunset Hills is a PRIVATE 1 bedroom, full bath, cottage in Branson. The cabin is Branson’s first and only couples only resort! There are 4 different cabins available. So be sure to visit their website by clicking here. This is the perfect place for a romantic getaway with that special someone. The cabin features a private covered porch with hot tub and gas firepit! On the inside you can enjoy the 55″ TV in the living room, there is also a mini fridge, and microwave. The true beauty of the resort is on the outside, where guests can swim, wade, and relax in their own waterfall oasis swimming hole.

Big Cedar Lodge

Often referred to as America’s Premier Wilderness Resort the lodge has  inviting accommodations, spectacular restaurants, two full-service marinas, four golf courses, a 50,000-square-foot activity center, unparalleled fishing and countless outdoor adventures, Big Cedar Lodge is a world-class resort where you and your family will make memories to last a lifetime. Built to embrace the natural landscape of the beautiful Ozark Mountains, Big Cedar Lodge offers 302 private accommodations, including grand lodges, cozy cottages, private log cabins, and inviting camp-style units. The Resort is spread out across more than 800 acres in the heart of Missouri’s ruggedly serene Ozark Mountains. It serves as the perfect vacation destination. Big Cedar Lodge is located at 190 Top of the Rock Rd. in Ridgedale, MO. For more information on reservations or pricing, visit them online by clicking here. Or call them at 1-800-225-6343.  

Still Water Resort

Still Waters Resort in Branson is a luxury, family resort located on Table Rock Lake. Conveniently located near Silver Dollar City, the resort has the perfect combination of convenience to all of Branson’s attractions at the same time providing a relaxing, lakefront escape. Still Waters Resort is located at 21 Still Water Trail in Branson, Missouri. For more information, click here. Still Waters Resort features a vast array of room accommodations, including 1-6 bedroom lakefront luxury condos, as well as countless amenities for the entire family. Don’t miss your chance to stay at Branson’s premiere lakefront resort.

For more great lodging options in Missouri, click here.

From Devil’s Lake to Starved Rock, to Maquoketa Caves, to Hocking Hills, the Midwest is loaded with quality state parks. Here is our list of 10 really amazing parks we know you’ll love!

Photo by Shutterstock/Owen Weber

Illinois

Matthiessen State Park

Matthiessen State Park is located just 2.5 miles south of the famous Starved Rock!  Matthiessen is a paradise for those interested in geology, as well as recreation. Visitors can expect to see beautiful rock formations in addition to unusual and abundant vegetation and wildlife. The main hiking trails are separated into two sections by a 45 foot drop from  the upper dells to the lower dells.  The trails navigate you through the limestone canyon, and feature stunning sites, including a cave, towering bluffs, and several waterfalls. Come visit Matthiessen State Park and find out why it’s considered one of Illinois’s best kept secrets! Matthiessen State Park is an Illinois state park located a few miles south of the more famous Starved Rock State Park. The main entrances to both parks are located on Illinois State Route 178, the entrance is located at 2500 IL-178, Oglesby, IL 61348 For more information, click here.

This picture is owned by Tonya Boyd

Starved Rock State Park

When its comes to beautiful scenery, very few parks in the Midwest can compare to Starved Rock State Park.  Whether you enjoy hiking along the nature trails or viewing the many spectacular overlooks along the Illinois River, recreational opportunities abound. In 1966 Starved Rock State Park was named a National Historic Landmark, and now boosts more than 13 miles of well marked hiking trails, 18 canyons, and 14 different waterfalls!  From picnicking to fishing to boating, from horseback riding to camping to enjoying winter sports, there’s so much to do that you’ll want to come back again and again. Starved Rock State Park is situated along the south bank of the Illinois River, less than 100 miles from Chicago, at 2668 E 875th Rd., Oglesby, IL 61348. For more information, click here.

Wisconsin

Devil’s Lake State Park

Devil’s Lake is a 10,000 acre state park, that stands out high above the rest!  The lake is the center attraction at Devil’s Lake State Park, which has over 3 million visitors each year. The park boasts, an incredible 29 miles of trails, ranging from easy to challenging.  Many of the trails offer unforgettable views of the lake. This park is truly gorgeous, offering unique views and some of the most interesting topography in the state. Devil’s Lake State Park is located at S5975 Park Rd., Baraboo, WI 53913. Admission is $13 for a day pass or free with the State of Wisconsin annual vehicle admission sticker. More information can be found by clicking here.

This picture is owned by Walter Herrera

Indiana

Turkey Run State Park

Turkey Run State Park is a gorgeous treasure nestled within Marshall, Indiana. Turkey Run State Park is home to many historic sites, like the ravines that lead you to the stunning sandstone gorges, that are hundreds of millions of years old. Turkey Run State Park has 11 gorgeous trails spread throughout the park, spanning around 14 miles in total. With so many miles of trails, caverns, bridges, and fantastic historical sites, Turkey Run State Park is the ideal place to go for the best hiking trails the Midwest has to offer. Turkey Run State Park is located at 8121 Park Rd, Marshall, IN 47859. For more information, click here.

Photo by Shutterstock/Kenneth Keifer

Ohio

Hocking Hills State Park

Hocking Hills is an amazing place and there is so much to see and do you need to plan an extended visit if you hope to see it all. Within the park are over 25 miles of hiking trails, rock formations, waterfalls, and recess caves. The trails are open from dawn to dusk, all year round, including holidays.The park contains seven separate hiking areas: Ash Cave, Cantwell Cliffs, Cedar Falls, Conkle’s Hollow, Old Man’s Cave, Rock House, and Hemlock Bridge Trail to Whispering Cave. There are many activities you can enjoy during your visit. Including, kayaking, hiking, camping, fishing, horseback riding, ziplining, and so much more. Cabin rentals are also available. For more information, click here.

Iowa

Maquoketa Caves State Park

This beautiful state park is one of the most popular in the entire state.  Located in Jackson County, sitting just Northwest of Maquoketa.  The park rests on more then 360 acres of rough, hilly terrain.  The trail system, offers a beautiful hike, that links together the caves, rock formations, and scenic overlooks. The park features 16 accessible caves, which offer great caving  for experienced and inexperienced cavers alike.  The hiking trails are just over 6 miles in length, and are a great way to see the park.  There is also a campground with 29 campsites, 17 of which have electrical hookups. Maquoketa Caves State Park is located at 9688 Caves Rd, Maquoketa, IA 52060. For more information, click here.

This Picture is owned by Mainstream Adventures

Minnesota

Gooseberry Falls State Park

Gooseberry Falls is one of Minnesota’s most popular state parks due to its easy access to several scenic waterfalls! This park provides 70 non-electric camping sites that are available year-round. There are 18 miles of hiking trails, including 8 miles of mountain bike trails. The trails connect to the Superior Hiking Trail. There are popular picnic and swimming spots found throughout the park. Gooseberry Falls is located at 3206 MN-61, Two Harbors, MN 55616. For more information, click here.

Michigan

Mackinac Island State Park

This is Mackinac Island State Park, a landscape characterized by high limestone bluffs, beautiful vistas of sparkling water, vibrant forests, and mystical geological formations. With automobiles banned since 1898, here exists a quieter way of life away from interstate noise of cities. Over 80 percent of Mackinac Island is within Mackinac Island State Park—free of charge and open year round—where you’ll discover the true natural gems of Mackinac.

Photo by Shutterstock/QZ

Missouri

Roaring River State Park

The Roaring River at Roaring River State Park in Barry County is a wildly popular spot for outdoor recreation. The gorgeous river is nearly opaque blue in places, and in other spots the water is so clear you can easily see the scores of giant trout swimming past. Among other things, Roaring River State Park offers some of Missouri’s best hiking! But the main thing that everyone comes to see is the gorgeous Roaring River Spring. This beautiful spring is more than 200 feet deep. Roaring River State Park is located at 12716 Farm Rd 2239, Cassville, Missouri. For more information, click here.

Ha Ha Tonka

Ha Ha Tonka State Park is one of the most amazing state parks you will find in the Midwest.  The park rests on more than 3,700 acres of rough, hilly, Ozark terrain.  Ha Ha Tonka is a popular destination for hikers looking to enjoy the 15 miles of pristine hiking trails.  The park is easy to navigate with a series of trails and boardwalks. The park has been referred to as a geological wonderland, with sinkholes, caves, a natural bridge, and one of the largest natural springs in the state, it’s easy to see why. One of the park’s most popular attractions is the ruins of a turn of the century stone castle.  With so many amazing natural features, Ha Ha Tonka is one state park you will want to visit again and again. The park is located on the Niangua arm of the Lake of the Ozarks, approximately 5 miles south of Camdenton Missouri. For more information, click here.

This picture is owned by Katie Isom/Wild Fern Images

Still Waters Resort in Branson is a luxury, family resort located on Table Rock Lake. Conveniently located near Silver Dollar City, the resort has the perfect combination of convenience to all of Branson’s attractions at the same time providing a relaxing, lakefront escape. Still Waters Resort is located at 21 Still Water Trail in Branson, Missouri. For more information, click here.

The resort is built around fun on the water. A variety of rentals are included in your stay including kayaks, pedal boats and bikes. The resort also has three pools for endless swimming, three hot tubs and a water slide.

If you’ve had enough time in the water, the resort also has a sand volleyball court and access to several hiking trails.

Still Waters Resort features a vast array of room accommodations, including 1-6 bedroom lakefront luxury condos, as well as countless amenities for the entire family. Don’t miss your chance to stay at Branson’s premiere lakefront resort.

Still Waters Resort in Branson, Missouri is recognized by Better Homes & Gardens as the “Preferred Place to Stay in Branson, Missouri.”

Lets take a quick look at everything this resort has to offer:

Incredible Pools

Still Waters Resort proudly features three outdoor pools. Enjoy the Oasis Pool featuring a zero-entry zone, a 15 foot swim-through waterfall, a huge sundeck complete with sun beds and lounge chairs, a relaxing hammock area, a luxurious hot tub, and the Oasis Plunge Waterslide. Splash along in the family friendly “Zoom the Flume” pool, featuring a 50 foot waterslide, or get away from it all in the restful Serenity Pool. If you’re looking to have some fun in the sun, there’s no better place than a swimming pool at Still Waters Resort!

Wonderful Toys

Explore Table Rock Lake on Free aqua cycles or paddleboats, balance on top of the water with Free paddleboards, or find new adventures in Free kayaks. Looking for a more leisurely activity? Float away in tranquility on Free inner tubes. Looking for excitement? The full-service marina offers wave runner, tri-toon, and ski boat rentals. For avid anglers, they offer multiple docks for fishing and even free cane poles to catch your next tale.  Your invited to experience the best of Table Rock Lake with more Free amenities for your family to enjoy!

The Grounds

It’s not all about the pools and lake at Still Waters Resort. We offer a huge children’s playground with slides and swings. Enjoy sand volleyball, basketball, and horseshoes. We have covered pavilions for entertaining and secluded picnic tables for a private lunch. Our guests also have access to barbeque grills. Enjoy the picturesque views while making memories that last a lifetime. Oh, don’t forget about the free mini golf course! No matter what you kind of adventure you seek, at Still Waters Resort we have everything you need!

The Condos

Why stay at a hotel, when for the same or less price you can stay in a luxurious lakefront resort? Our rooms feature full sized bathrooms, cable television with DVD players, King or Queen beds, and are all NON-SMOKING. We offer studio to 6 bedroom condominiums which offer full kitchens complete with utensils and dishware, a microwave, stove, oven, and dishwasher and select units with washers and dryers. With a large variety, we have units that will suite any price point.

Hidden Gems

When it comes to pleasant surprises Still Waters Resort has a few up their sleeves. One of the most unexpected hidden gems is the vintage game room located next to the Zume the Flume pool. Pinball, air hockey, billiards, and much more all ready for your inner gamer! Another unique feature of the resort is the Bayside Market. Comprised of Bridges Coffee, Pizza World, and a small convenience store; they have fancy eats and delicious treats within walking distance of your lodging. So come enjoy a slice, or wakeup with a gourmet coffee, or grab a snack.

When it comes to making memories that last a lifetime, Still Waters Resort is the perfect place for your next family vacation! Photos used in this article are from Still Waters Resort’s Facebook page and are owned by them.

For more great lodging options in the area, click here.

The Nittany Lions are once again the team to beat and are already ranked number 1 in the preseason rankings. And why shouldn’t they be? They are the defending champions and are returning 5 All-Americans and 4 NCAA Champions. Even with the returning star power, PSU will also have a lot of new faces in the line up as well. This article will take a look at each weight class and give a preview of who I believe the starter will be.

125

Robbie Howard looked to be the answer to Penn States problems at 125 two years ago. His season seemed to be off to a great start as he earned a spot at the NCAA tournament going 2-2 losing only to eventual all-americans. He missed last season after aggravating an injury he suffered his senior year in high school. So a few questions remain at this weight class. Is Howard healthy? Has he continued to develop during this injury? If healthy I can see Robbie again qualifying for the NCAA tournament, and he may even find himself on the podium at the end of the year. As things stand I’m not comfortable making any predictions on this weight class.

133

Roman Bravo-Young the 2x NCAA champion is back for his senior season. Its unclear how often Roman will compete, it sounds like he has a lot on his table. However, when he does compete its sure to be exciting. RBY is one of the fastest wrestlers in NCAA history, and he blends that so well with natural athleticism making him nearly unbeatable. It seems like he will have very few challengers this season as Iowa’s Austin Desanto has graduated. He is however on another collision course with Oklahoma States Dayton Fix. RBY has beaten Dayton the last two seasons, and there is no reason to think this year will be any different.

141

Beau Bartlett is a solid but somewhat unproven competitor. Out of high school a ton of hype surrounded Beau, but due to NIck Lee’s presence in the lineup Beau was forced to wrestle up a weight class the last two seasons. At 149 Beau was obviously undersized and looked slightly out of place. Back at 141 this season may be just the thing he needs to finally live up to that hype. Last season Beau had a 15-10 record and went 1-2 at the NCAA tournament. I expect much better results for him at 141, and we may even see him earn his first all-american honors before years end.

149

Shayne Van Ness was one of the top recruits coming out of high school and Penn State fans are excited to see what he can do. He went 2-2 last season as a red-shirt with both loses coming by medical default. He is another wrestler that the sky is the limit with his abilities. Not sure if he was injured last season or what exactly happened with the  medical defaults but if he is healthy he has the potential to land on the podium in March.

157

Levi Haines is fresh out of high school, however he has already been competing in college tournaments and has enjoyed a fair amount of success while still technically a high school senior.  Levi is an elite recruit and will make an immediate impact for the Nittany Lions. he has been training with PSU great David Taylor for a few years now and should be more than ready step up right away. He is a true blue chip recruit and the sky is the limit on his potential.

165

Alex Facundo is a Michigan-native he was a four-time Michigan State Champion at Davison High School. This last May Facundo  won the U20 National Freestyle Championship at 74 kg title and was named the tournament’s Outstanding Wrestler. He is another wrestler with very high expectations. Intermat has him ranked 24th in the preseason rankings. i expect him to continue to climb as the season progresses.

174

Carter Starocci is a 2X NCAA Champion, and beat two extremely high level wrestlers to win his titles. While Mekhi Lewis will again present a sizable challenge. Carter is the odds on favorite to repeat as NCAA Champion. Penn State is well known for producing championship caliber wrestlers, Carter is quickly rising to the top of the heap within the schools history books. I expect another dominating season and a 3rd NCAA title.

184

Aaron Brooks is back and looking to defend his title. he is again a heavy favorite to repeat, although he does have a few tough challenges ahead. Parker Keckeisen of Northern Iowa is a 2X 3rd place finisher and is capable of beating anyone in the division. Also Trent Hidlay is back and last season took Brooks into sudden victory. Even with these challenges, I expect Brooks to once again stand atop the podium in March.

197

Max Dean is another NCAA champion back to defend his title. Max had a fantastic year last season, defeating Iowa’s Jacob Warner in thrilling fashion in the 197 pound title match. Max will enter the 22-23 season as the favorite to win another national title. Although its hardly a given, AJ Ferrari while no longer at Oklahoma State is also a returning NCAA Champion and may be back in the mix this season. Also a rematch with Warner looms. Barring injury I would think Dean is a lock to land on the podium yet again, most likely in the top spot.

Heavyweight

Greg Kerkvliet is fully capable of winning a NCAA title this season, but several obstacles stand in his way. For one Greg is very injury prone and is rarely wrestling at 100%. Last year he finished 4th at the NCAA tournament in one of the deepest brackets of all-time. (Last years heavyweight division had 5 world champions.) In the third place match he lost by injury default raising further questions regarding his health. The weight class is once again loaded with 4 world champions still competing within the college ranks. If healthy I see Greg standing on the podium somewhere in the top 4.

The Springs Resort, located in beautiful Pagosa Springs, Colorado has 25 hot spring mineral pools, well-appointed hotel rooms and luxury suites. The resort has a full-service day spa for the ultimate in relaxation. The resort is located at 323 Hot Springs Blvd, in Pagosa Springs, Colorado. For more information, click here.

The Springs Resort has 25 hot-spring soaking tubs on the banks of the San Juan River in downtown Pagosa Springs, fed by the World’s Deepest Geothermal Hot Spring.

Warm. Magical. Extraordinary. Nestled in the Rocky Mountains is a place of beauty, wonder, and healing. Discovered hundreds of years ago by the Southern Ute Indian Tribe, the great Pagosa hot springs have long been known for their healing powers.

With a range of temperatures and sizes there is a pool to suit every mood- whether you want to swim laps, take a cold plunge, heat up in the Lobster pot or sip a quiet morning coffee in a secluded corner pool… there is a soak for everyone. Hot spring temperatures range from 87–114°F.

If your looking for a little adventure, look no further. This is the perfect place to experience classic Colorado in Pagosa Springs year round. Explore endless acres of national forest and wilderness during the Spring and Summer while hiking, biking, or even on horseback.  Discover waterfalls, swimming holes and other natural surprises waiting for you. Restore your senses in the Fall with sweeping views of the rugged Rocky Mountains and the mesmerizing colors of the fall season.  Fly fish for trout in the San Juan River.  Tour ancient Native American dwellings.  Or see it all from above on a hot air balloon ride. Connect with nature in the winter as you experience the most snow in Colorado. Soothe your body and soul with a soak in the waters drawn from the world’s deepest hot spring. Pagosa is the destination for 4 – season fun!

Just like there is a pool to match your soaking desires, they have rooms and suites to equally delight with your choice of Classic, Deluxe, or Luxury accommodations. Each room includes 24-hour access to the soaking pools for two adults, complimentary robes and towels, access to the adult-only Relaxation Terrace, the Deep Sleep Tray, and a complimentary slate of wellness activities to complete your retreat. You’ll have a stay that warms the body, recharges the soul, and invigorates your well-being.

Bottom line: if your looking for a resort with outstanding accommodations, an amazing staff, an unforgettable view, incredible activities, and the best natural hot springs in Colorado, look no further! The Springs Resort is the perfect place to relax, unwind, and refresh!

For more great lodging options in Colorado, click here.