Author: marklongmainstream (Page 98 of 174)

Tram Tour Of Dogwood Canyon

Take a ride on the wild side! Step aboard the comfortable, open-air trams and explore the beauty of Dogwood Canyon! This adventure includes a two-hour narrated tour of the park as you pass by bluffs, waterfalls and other scenic views. Plus, you’ll cross the Arkansas border and enter the Bison-Elk Country pasture, encountering the largest residents at Dogwood Canyon. Dogwood Canyon is located at 2038 West State Hwy 86 Lampe, Missouri 65681. For more information, click here.

Lost Canyon Cave and Nature Trail

Experience the unforgettable two-and-a-half-mile journey on an electric cart as you explore the Top of the Rock Lost Canyon and Nature Trail. This dramatic trail was created to highlight stunning rock formations, waterfalls and views of Table Rock Lake. Don’t forget to stop at the Bat Bar for a fresh glass of lemonade. Top of the Rock is located at 150 Top of the Rock Road Ridgedale Missouri. For more information, click here.

Wonders Of Wildlife

Wonders of Wildlife  National Museum and Aquarium is the largest most immersive fish and wildlife attraction in the world!  The aquarium features a 1.5 million gallon tank and is home to over 35,000 live fish, crabs, reptiles and more. This fantastic new animal and nature museum opened its doors in September of 2017, and has been voted America’s #1 new attraction, and America’s Best Aquarium by USA TODAY! The average visit lasts between 3 and 5 hours, so you won’t run out of things to see. Tours take place  seven days a week and are as much educational, as they are entertaining.  Wonders of the Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium is located at 500 W Sunshine St., Springfield Missouri.  For more information visit their website by clicking here.

Meramec Cave Tour

This amazing cave system draws more than 100,000 visitors a year from all corners of the Earth.  The cave dates back 100’s of millions of years and has quite an interesting history.  Meramec Caverns has been featured on the Flinstones, and has also been linked to the legendary Jesse James. Cave tours take place year round, and are led by expert rangers.  The tour covers a 1.25 mile path and takes you past some of the most beautiful rock formations you will ever see! Cave tours lasts about an hour and a half, and take place on a lighted walkway. Meramec Cavern is located at 1135 MO-W Sullivan, MO 63080. For more information, click here.

Bonne Terre Boat Tour

The Bonne Terre Mine is the perfect place for adventure!   This cave boat tour will give you an unforgettable experience as you get to see into the past! Inside the Mine, you will find Billion Gallon Lake, which is the largest subterranean lake on Earth.  This is also home to the world’s largest freshwater dive resort. The boat tours last between 45-55 minutes, and will take you past ancient items submerged in the crystal clear water.  After the boat tour, your adventure continues on foot, exploring the vast underground. If that wasn’t enough, you can even become a certified scuba diver, and continue your exploration underwater.  Bonne Terre Mine is located at 185 Park Ave., Bonne Terre, MO. For more information, click here.

Rock Island State Park

Jstephen Coons

Rock Island State Park is an 883-acre park located on the headwaters of Center Hill Lake at the confluence of the Caney Fork, Collins and Rocky Rivers.  The rugged beauty of the park includes the Caney Fork Gorge below Great Falls Dam. The Caney Fork River Gorge contains scenic overlooks, waterfalls, deep pools and limestone paths perfect for hiking, swimming, fishing, kayaking, and exploring. The park has two campgrounds offering 60 different campsites that can accommodate RVs, trailers, and tents. 10 cabins are also available to rent.  Rock Island State Park is located at 82 Beach Road Rock Island, TN. For more information, click here.

Cummins Falls State Park

This picture is owned by Lindsay Miller

Cummins Falls State Park is an idyllic, but rugged, 282-acre day-use park located nine miles north of Cookeville on the Blackburn Fork State Scenic River on the Eastern Highland Rim. Located in the Cordell Hull Watershed, the area has been a scenic spot and swimming hole for local residents of Jackson and Putnam counties for more than 100 years. Cummins Falls is Tennessee’s eighth largest waterfall in volume of water and is 75 feet high. No camping is allowed at Cummins Falls, however, cabins and camping are offered at Standing Stone State Park and Edgar Evins State Park .  Cummins Falls State Park is located at 390 Cummins Falls Ln, Cookeville, TN. For more information, click here.

Fall Creek Falls State Park

Michael Hicks – Flickr

Fall Creek Falls State Park is quite possibly the most popular park in Tennessee behind the Great Smoky Mountains. Known for its waterfall cascades and meandering hikes through the heart of the state, it’s a great spot for folks that find heart in the outdoors. There are trails for all weather and seasons within the 26,000 acre state park.  Hiking is arguably the most popular activity in the park, with long and short distances mapped out across the park. There are multiple day-use trails great for all ages, and even two long distance overnight trails for the more experienced. Fall Creek Falls has an inn with 145 hotel rooms and a restaurant. You can also rent one of the 30 cabins on-site or 222 campsites. Fall Creek Falls is located at 2009 Village Camp Road Spencer, TN. For more information, click here.

Burgess Falls State Park

This picture is owned by Anthony Heflin

Located on the Falling Water River, this day-use park is noted for its natural beauty and four waterfalls that cascade down from over 250 feet in elevation. The last of these falls is the most spectacular, plunging more than 130 feet into the gorge. The Burgess Falls trail is one of the most popular in the park, it’s a 1.6 mile out and back trail with an incredible  view of the waterfall. Keep in mind this is a day use only park, and no camping is permitted.  Burgess Falls State Park  is located at 4000 Burgess Falls Dr, Sparta, TN. For more information, click here.

Frozen Head State Park

This picture is owned by Frank Kehren

Frozen Head State Park and Natural Area encompasses more than 24,000 acres of wilderness area and is named for a 3,324-foot peak in the Cumberland Mountains, the top of which is often shrouded in ice or snow in the winter months. The impressive entrance leads visitors into a vestige of densely forested, unspoiled mountain splendor — once common throughout the Cumberland Plateau. There are 20 primitive tent campsites within the park. Fifty miles of backpacking and day-hiking trails provide wildlife viewing opportunity. Many of the trailheads are located near the park office, with lesser-used trailheads located at Armes Gap and just off Highway 62 to the south. Most of the trails are open only to hiking, although mountain biking is allowed on the Lookout Tower Trail, which leads to the summit of Frozen Head. Frozen Head is located at 964 Flat Fork Road Wartburg, TN. For more information, click here.

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.

Fort Harrison State Park

This 1,700 acre park offers walking trails, picnic sites, fishing access, a Pete Dye-designed golf course, and two national historic districts. Spring is the time to see flowers blooming, summer is the perfect time to canoe down Fall Creek, fall offers breathtaking views of colorful foliage and Winter is the time to sled down some of the tallest hills in the area. Fort Harrison State Park is a state park for many seasons for many reasons. Patrons may enjoy visiting the park all year round, especially in winter since Fort Harrison features the Sledding Hill, one of the biggest in this area. Spring is the season to walk with the woodland wildflowers in full bloom across the park. Summer is the perfect time for a canoe trip down Fall Creek, the major water feature that runs through the north side of Fort Harrison. Autumn brings warm, sunny days and breathtaking fall colors to this, the last forested corner left in Marion County. Enjoy The Fort Golf Course and for an overnight trip, stay at the Fort Harrison Inn and Conference Center.Fort Harrison State Park is located at 6000 N Post Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46216. For more information, click here.

Clifty Falls State Park

Situated high above the Ohio River near Madison, Clifty Falls State Park provides breathtaking views, not just of the river but also of the many waterfalls for which the park is named.  The rugged splendor of Clifty Canyon offers exciting year-round hiking and scenery. Waterfalls are some of the most spectacular sights you will find within the park. Clifty Falls State Park is located at 1501 Green Rd, Madison, IN 47250. For more information, click here.

McCormick’s Creek State Park

Visitors to McCormicks Creek State Park can enjoy a wide variety of activities and services in a beautiful and restful natural setting. You can explore the park by 10+ miles of well-marked hiking trails, taking you past unique features like Wolf Cave, Twin Bridges, and the Falls on McCormick’s Creek. If you enjoy horseback riding you can take guided trail rides or pony rides at the Saddle Barn. There is also a picnic area, swimming pool and nature center. Camping is also available. McCormicks Creek State Park is located at 250 McCormick Creek Park Rd, Spencer, IN. For more information, click here.

Shades State Park

Shades State Park is that peaceful place you’ve sought. Located about 17 miles southwest of Crawfordsville (off S.R. 47), it is a favorite for hikers and canoeists. The beautiful sandstone cliffs overlooking Sugar Creek and numerous shady ravines provide the backdrop for your journey through this nature lover’s paradise. Also on the property is Pine Hills Nature Preserve, which affords spectacular topography for those willing to take a fairly long hike. Camping and fishing are other popular activities you can enjoy at Shades. Shades State Park is located at 7751 S 890 W, Waveland, IN. For more information, click here.

Aikman Wildlife Safari

The Adventure Park has more then 150 different animals, and over 50 different species, just waiting to be seen. Living in the Midwest, this is about as close to an African Safari as we can get with out a passport. Aikman Wildlife Adventure is currently offering several great ways to experience this unique park. A walk through adventure, a drive through adventure, and a wagon ride adventure! This tour is narrated by knowledgeable guides and is a great learning experience for everyone. Aikman Wildlife Adventure is located at 125 North County Road 425E Arcola Illinois 61910 for more information, click here.

Firework Tour

The Fireworks Tour at Kayak Chicago is the perfect combination of adventure and relaxation. It’s this reason the tour has become one of the most popular, with kayak enthusiasts traveling from all over the world to take part in this amazing float. This legendary tour lasts 3 hours and is only available on Wednesday and Saturday nights from Memorial Day through Labor Day. The tour begins near the North Branch of the Chicago River, on the peaceful back channel of Goose Island.  From there you will travel down stream through the heart of Chicago past some of the most iconic buildings on Earth! Finally you arrive just past Lake Shore Drive, in time for the amazing Fireworks Spectacular at Navy Pier! Several other tours are also available, more information can be found by clicking here.

Chestnut Mountain River Cruise

Go ahead, take that Mississippi River cruise you’ve always wanted to. Our 1.5 hour Mississippi River Cruises take you for a scenic voyage down the mighty river where you’ll view wildlife, learn a bit of the area’s history, see geographical curiosities and glimpse the breathtaking riverscapes on one of the area’s most compelling adventures. All cruises include Alpine Slide and Scenic Chair Ride to and from departure area. Chestnut Mountain Resort is located at 8700 W. Chestnut Mountain Rd Galena Illinois. For more information, click here.

Grafton Zipline Tours

Grafton Zipline is the premier zipline course in the Midwest, with 7 incredible lines totaling 2 miles in length. The ziplines range  from 300 feet to the longest line checking in at just over 1600 feet.  As is the case with any zipline course, it’s only as good as the views around it.  At Grafton Zipline you soar high above a lush forest  overlooking the confluence of the Illinois & Mississippi Rivers.  Grafton Zipline is located at 14 West Main Street, Grafton Illinois. For more information, click here.

Wendella Boat Tour

Awe-inspiring with a casual vibe, watch the sun slowly set behind Chicago’s architectural backdrop. This lake cruise is light on narration and heavy on incredible and spectacular! Our narrated tours focus on Chicago’s rich architectural history, with expert tour guides on board to educate & entertain you. Hop onboard one of our cruises to socialize with friends and family, and enjoy skyline views from the water. We offer something for everyone, as each cruise provides its own unique experience. For more information, click here.

Copper Falls State Park

Jason Paul/Facebook

Ancient lava flows, deep gorges and spectacular waterfalls make Copper Falls State Park one of Wisconsin’s most scenic parks. The park offers multiple opportunities for a little adventure, there is camping, hiking, bicycling, picnic areas, fishing, and even swimming in Loon Lake. The primary attraction at the park however, is the two spectacular waterfalls.  There are also more than 50 campsites, and even an observation tower overlooking all the gorgeous nature! Copper Falls State Park is located at 36664 Copper Falls Rd, Mellen, WI. For more information, click here.

Wyalusing State Park

Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources

Wyalusing State Park is a hidden gem in the Wisconsin parks system! This  2,628-acre park is located at the confluence of the Mississippi and Wisconsin rivers in the town of Wyalusing, just south of Prairie du Chien.  The park is located in the far southwest corner of the state has some of the best views anywhere in the state. The park has both land and water activities, as well as some of the most picturesque campsites you’ll find anywhere! Wyalusing State Park is located at 13295 State Park Ln, Bagley, WI 53801. For more information, click here.

Governor Dodge State Park

Julian Kegel

One of most well kept State Parks in the Midwest. With well marked hiking trails, a beautiful campground, and sand beaches, next to both lakes, it’s easy to see why Governor Dodge is such a popular destination. The park has nearly 40 miles of hiking, spread out on 10 different trails.  Many of them are open to cross-country skiing, mountain biking, horseback riding, and snowmobiling. Governor Dodge is an excellent location for camping, with well over 250 campsites available during the summer months and several more open year round. The park is located at 4175 State Highway 23 N Dodgeville, WI. For more information, click here.

Devil’s Lake State Park

Kern n Tracy/alltrails

The park is most known for its gorgeous lake, its also a well sought out location for hiking enthusiasts.  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. It also features part of the Ice Age Trail and the Ice Age National Scientific Reserve. It’s a truly special place you really want to make time to visit. Devil’s Lake State Park is located at S5975 Park Rd., Baraboo, WI 53913. For more information, click here.

Vicky Helms