Outdoors Information

Drive Me to WA Today!


Western Australia Driving Adventure Great Australian Road Trip Large is not the word for it. Massive doesn?t cover it either. Gigantanormous might be a little closer to the mark, but unfortunately you won?t find it in any dictionaries. Welcome to Western Australia, where elbow room has never been a problem. If you?re looking for the ultimate Great Australian Road Trip, then flying into Perth is an excellent first step. One of the most popular road trips you can do in the big WA is cruising up the enormous stretch of coastline to the north, stopping along the way to visit tiny towns, romp along beaches with no footprints, and burrow around mind-blowing national parks. Gearing up and getting outta here! The adventurous will be aiming for Broome and beyond, to lose themselves in the wilds of Kimberly, freaking out at the alien landscape of the Bungle Bungles before crossing the border and heading for Darwin. Those of us who like to shower a little more often will probably cruise along the North West Coastal Highway as far as the popular holiday town of Exmouth ? possibly popping over to Karijini National Park (well worth a look) ? before turning around and heading home. Before you rush out into the unending horizon, make sure you?ve got a trusty car at the ready, able to take punishing distances, and equipped with life-saving air-conditioning. Not having a car isn?t even an option in a state the size of India, with the majority of the population clinging to the outskirts of Perth and south coast. So if you don?t have your own, grab yourself a good deal for a Perth car hire, chuck your luggage, stores of water and petrol in the back, and put your foot on the accelerator. Need a car for your road trip? Rent one at Car Rental Perth Cavorting up the coast First stop should be the Pinnacles in Nambung National Park near Cervantes with random spooky limestone pillars standing silently in the sand, staring at you. Stay over in Cervantes or keep the wheels turning until you reach Geraldton ? WA?s second largest city. If you?re a keen diver or like to snorkel, then charter a boat (or catch the seaplane) and check out the Abrolhos Islands, and have a float around the Batavia shipwreck. Just up the road (relative to distances regularly encountered in WA) is the resort town of Kalbarri with its national park ? easily accessible by cars and walking. Get back in your car and keep your foot on the gas until you get to the World Heritage listed Shark Bay. This unbelievably ecologically diverse area tends to be overshadowed by the fame of Monkey Mia?s friendly dolphins, but poking around the bays to spot turtles and serene dugongs can be infinitely as rewarding as an encounter with one of the bottle-nosed dolphins. Visit the Zuytdorp Cliffs and Shell Beach (where the sand is actually composed of ? yep, you guessed it ? little white shells). If you?re roaring around in a 4WD you can hike your way out to Francois National Park. The next mandatory stop is Coral Bay and Exmouth to reward yourself with balmy year-round weather, and Ningaloo Reef, where you can?t splash around without bumping into a big underwater creature of some kind. After this, it?s the determination of dusty traveler which will get you past the next many hundreds of kilometers, past the industrial towns of Dampier, Karratha and Port Hedland and on into Broome, the charming doorstep to the wilds of the Kimberley ? one of the last great unconquered expanses of nature left in the world. It?s here you can throw around all the over-the-top descriptors you like: rugged, breathtaking, spiritual, bloody brilliant. But you?ll have to go there yourself. Save me from using up all my adjectives. Beyond that, you?ve only got Kununurra and the Bungle Bungles before you cross the border and into the NT. Need a car in Perth? There?s a plethora of websites out there which hunt down cheap car hire deals and put them all on the one website. Just do a search on google for ?car hire deals? or go to a website such as http://www.vroomvroomvroom.com.au who often have good Perth and Western Australia deals. Drive Safe and Happy Adventuring!

The Classy Way to Do WA


Western Australia ? South-West Coast driving holiday. Great Australian Road Trips Okay, so road trips in Western Australia might bring to mind punishing distances and dusty towns, and accidentally forgetting to fill up on petrol only to pass your remaining three days under the thin shade of a dead tree wondering if any car is likely to come your way. And no doubt this is readily available in a state the size of many small countries sticky-taped together, with frequent stretches of desert. For those with different tastes, the classy (and petrol-station dotted) option is the gorgeous coast to the south of Perth, with the south-west pocket of Bunbury, Margaret River and Albany, stretching on east to Esperance and Cape Arid National Park. Getting started ? from Perth downwards. So have a bit of a wander around Perth ? check out Fremantle (where the Perth cappuccino elite head en masse on the weekend) and commune with the cute furry side of nature on a day-trip to Rottnest Island. Not the most attractive name for an island, but the quokkas (little kangaroo-rat things with a penchant for your peanut butter sandwiches) and the gorgeous beaches make this a brilliant side trip. Just make sure you bring your bicycle legs for the day, as there?s hardly any motorised transportation. After that, it?s onwards in a southerly direction. Need a car for your road trip? Hire one at Car Rental Perth. Wine, more wine, and then some nibbley things. Right, so first you?ll need to make a stop at Bunbury, if only for a day or so to have a traipse around, stretch the legs, and have a dabble at the water?s edge to chance a meeting with a dolphin or two. Then it?s time to get serious and head on in to the Margaret River Region. Winos and gourmands will happily revel in many chance encounters with world-class restaurants (sometimes attached to wineries) which dot the countryside. Surfers may never want to come back in from the swell ? the surfing here is world-renowned. Further along the coast, before you arrive in Albany for a frolic, you?ll want to have some quality time with some very tall plants. This here is Tall Timber Country, and the karri forests will imbue you with a somber respect for all things leafy. Stop off at the Valley of the Giants to take the Treetop walk, or take on the Gloucestor Tree near Pemberton ? steps fixed around its trunk allow you to climb up 60 metres high. A day-trip out from Albany will thrust you into the heart of another wine-growing region (it seems the one necessity of this road trip would be a designated driver) ? the Mount Barker, Porongurup National Park and Frankland area can get you over the driving limit in the most delightful way. And finally, a short drive away is the lovely town of Esperance and its ridiculously blue ocean, situated at the western end of the Archipelago of Recherch. The archipelago has 110 coastal islands ? full of crafty old goats and colonies of seals ? which you can tramp about on at your leisure. Or there?s always a rewarding trek to be had in surrounding national parks like Cape Le Grand and Cape Arid. From Esperance you?ve got the option of returning to Perth via an inland route, maybe heading up to Kalgoorlie before heading back on the Great Eastern Highway, or really change your road trip?s tempo, nip up north and turn right onto the Eyre Highway. In that case you?d better steel yourself for a very long drive to Adelaide on a straight road which goes for thousands of kilometres through an unvarying landscape designed especially to send you insane. Or, perhaps returning to Perth to hop on a plane going that direction might be a more attractive option? Need a car to get you started? There?s loads of websites that collect the specials of all the car rental companies to save you time looking around. Just do a google search for ?car hire deals? or check out a website like http://www.vroomvroomvroom.com.au which often has some good Perth and Western Australia specials. Take care on those roads and keep your eyes peeled for kangaroos!

Solo Backpacking


Have you ever gone solo backpacking? If you have, you'll probably agree that it isn't a matter of it being better or worse than backpacking with friends. It's just a different activity altogether.

Solo Backpacking Tips


Solo backpacking means peace and quiet. No one to talk to means no words are put between you and the beauty around you. The miles just flow. It's entirely up to you to say when you eat or take a break. Want to jump in that alpine lake? It's your decision alone. It's a unique experience.

Plymouth Plantation and Mayflower ? Links to Our Past Guide, Part 1


Plimoth Plantation and the Mayflower II ship are major attractions in Plymouth, Massachusetts. Authentic yet entertaining the two are links to our past and the 102 passengers that survived the journey across stormy seas.

10 Tips to Planning Your Dream Road Trip


Everyone has a travel dream. For many it is hitting the road for a relatively unlimited time, either here or abroad.

Kayak Travel and Trips


If you love the thrill and adventure of kayak travel, the waters and lakes are yours to explore! Mankind has always been drawn to the sea and a kayak trip is truly one of the ultimate highs as far as kayak travel is concerned. Human beings have always invented useful devices that enhance our lifestyles and kayak travel is a great and marvelous feat, which blends excitement, fun and freedom of movement in one great adventure.

Whitewater Rafting Trip


For the dedicated water sport enthusiast there can be no greater challenge than embarking on a whitewater rafting trip. The abundance of whitewater rafting trip courses available worldwide offer enjoyment and challenges for both the novice and the more experienced adventurer.

Mount Kenya ? Up High at God?s Mountain


Mount Kenya is Africa's second highest mountain, after Kilimanjaro. It is estimated to be 2.5 million years old, and Kilimanjaro at 750,00 years of age is really an upstart. Time has really taken its toll, and the peak is thought to have dropped from 6,500 m those millions of years ago to 5,199 m today. The mountain is an extinct volcano, whose plug forms what is today the peak area. The crater was long ago, done to death, by nature's untiring erosion agents.

Top Five Honeymoon Safari Destinations In Africa


An African honeymoon safari is the perfect way to celebrate your marriage.

Wildebeest Migration - How To Get The Best Seats In The House


To get the most out of a wildebeest migration safari you need to know where the best places along the migration route are, the times you need to be in certain areas and who the top migration safari companies are.

Discover The Los Angeles County Arboretum & Botanic Garden In Arcadia California


In The city of Arcadia California, right next door to Pasadena http://pasadena.usacitydirectories.com you will find The Los Angeles County Arboretum & Botanic Garden, a beautiful and peaceful 127 acre botanical garden and historical site jointly operated by the Los Angeles Arboretum Foundation and the Los Angeles County Department of Parks and Recreation. The Arboretum is located across from the Santa Anita Race Track is at 301 North Baldwin Avenue, Arcadia, CA, 91007. It is open daily from 9:00 am - 5:00 pm; admission closes at 4:30. Admission is $7 for adults, $5 for seniors (62 and over), $5 for students with ID, and $2.50 for children 5- 12. Children under 5 and members are admitted free. Unlike most attractions these days, parking is free. In the middle of the Arboretum sits the four acre Baldwin Lake which has been used in filming numerous movies and television shows. "Johnny Weissmuller swam in LASCA Lagoon/Baldwin Lake for three decades as Tarzan and later Jungle Jim. A local news story reported that he, in fact, set an unrecorded Olympic swim record when a cage of crocodiles was accidentally opened during filming (Weissmuller beat the crocs to the lake shore). Bob Hope, Bing Crosby and Dorothy Lamour took up a month-long watery Baldwin Lake residence in homes on stilts for the filming of Road to Singapore in 1939, the same year the Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.,/Madeleine Carroll film Safari managed to sink a paddlewheel boat in the same lake. Undaunted, television's original "Fantasy Island" lowered a pontoon plane by helicopter onto Baldwin Lake and propelled it across the water to disembark visitors to Mr. Roark's island paradise. For Alex Haley's "Roots II", Baldwin Lake became Kunta Kinte's river home in Africa." Don?t just peek through the windows of the Arboretum?s Queen Anne Cottage, come inside to see the historic Treasures! The cottage, with its marble terrace, Victorian furnishings and treasures provides a charming opportunity for the whole family. Take the tram or walk through the gardens, spend the day being mesmerized by all of the well tended plants, flowers, flowering trees, cacti, succulents and the abundant wildlife (The Arboretum is famous for it's roaming peafowl.). The rose gardens alone are worth the visit. Stop and watch a wedding or see a commercial being filmed. Take your kids to the Discovery Node constructed out by Tule Pond, you'll find a variety of new activities for children of all ages to enjoy and explore. Eat at the Peacock Cafe. Sit down on a bench or under a tree, relax and feel your cares floating away. Visit the gift shop where you can buy plants, gardening books, photographs, paintings and other items (the prices are very inexpensive.). The Los Angeles County Arboretum & Botanic Garden is a place where an individual or the whole family can spend the day and go home feeling rested and at peace with the world. For more information about the city of Arcadia, California see http://arcadia.usacitydirectories.com, a directory of links to city of Arcadia, California guides and directories listing information, resources, services, things to do, places to go, restaurants, churches and more.

Discover Eaton Canyon In Pasadena California


Eaton Canyon Natural Area Nature Center, entrance, 1750 N. Altadena Drive, Pasadena, Ca. 91107, is a 190-acre natural park is located at the base of Mt. Wilson. There are five miles of nature trails, an equestrian trail, creeks and a waterfall. The canyon is very lush and has beautiful displays of local flora and fauna. The park is open daily sunrise to sunset. The Los Angeles County Department of Parks and Recreation supervises and maintains this "zoological, botanical, and geological wonderland situated at the base of the beautiful San Gabriel Mountains. With its hiking trails, wildlife, rocks and minerals, and plants, there is something for everyone to enjoy". At the entrance to the park you will find a 7,600 square-foot building containing many "fascinating displays, live animals, offices, classrooms, an auditorium, restrooms, and an information desk/gift shop". The Center is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, during which time a staff member is present to assist you. Both docent-guided and self-guided tours are available in Eaton Canyon. Reservations are required for either type in order to ensure that everyone has a pleasant experience. One of the best places to visit in the park is the Eaton Canyon Waterfalls. According to Eaton Canyon Nature Center Associates "For a spectacular view of Eaton Canyon, hike to the 50-foot Eaton Canyon Waterfall". "There is water at the falls year-round, but in dry seasons and during the summer months the stream bed may be partially or totally dry. In order to reach the falls you'll have to cross the stream bed several times, but only in the wettest months will this be particularly difficult". Camping is available by permit at Henninger Flats, rest rooms, drinking fountain, picnic area, a Visitor's Center and a plant nursery are located in the flats. No permit is needed to picnic or use the facilities. Over fifty (50) species of plants, twenty (20) types of mammals, including mule deer, bobcats, coyote, fox and mountain lion, over one hundred fifty (150) species of birds, including hawks, vultures, owls, heron, pelican and eagles as well as numerous reptiles, amphibians and fish are found in the park. For more information or to reserve a camp space you can contact the park directly at (626) 398-5420. For more information about the city of Pasadena, California see http://pasadena.usacitydirectories.com, a directory of links to city of Pasadena, California guides and directories listing hotels, restaurants, churches, physicians, attorneys, information, resources, services, things to do, places to go, art galleries, service organizations, auto dealers, nursing homes, convalescent hospitals, antique dealers and more.

Discover Knotts Berry Farm


Of course you know about Southern California's premier attraction, Disneyland in Anaheim, but did you know that less than ten (10) minuets down the freeway, in Buena Park, is another great amusement park, Knott's Berry Farm. Knott's Berry Farm, America's first theme park, is located at 8039 Beach Boulevard, Buena Park, CA 90620, telephone number (714) 220-5200 and has over one hundred fifty (150) rides in six themed areas: Ghost Town, Fiesta Village®, The Boardwalk, Indian Trails, Wild Water Wilderness® and Camp Snoopy which is the official home of Snoopy and the Peanuts characters. The park is home to the high-flying 3,125 foot Silver Bullet roller coaster which sends riders climbing to a height of 146 feet and soaring back down an initial drop of 109 feet. It has a top speed of fifty five (55) miles per hour and riders will experience spirals, corkscrews, a cobra roll, and overbanked curves. It is also home to the 118 foot tall GhostRider, one of the longest and tallest wooden roller coasters in the world with a 108-foot initial banked drop, 13 additional drops, sudden dips, banked turns and maximum G-forces of 3.14 Wild Water Wilderness is home to Bigfoot Rapids which "is a thrilling, outdoor whitewater river raft ride that will bounce, toss, spin and splash passengers as they brave fast moving currents and dodge soaring geisers as they experience the unforgettable fun of shooting the rapids". Towering cliffs, huge boulders, cascading water falls, soaring geysers and trees, shrubs and wild flowers--all indigenous to California--combine to create an authentic setting for Bigfoot Rapids. At Camp Snoopy, the whole family can enjoy many of the rides, "made for the young and the young-at-heart. Ride our new Charlie Brown Speedway, or Woodstock's Airmail (the kid-size version of Supreme Scream®), have the kids take you for a spin at Rocky Road Truckin' Company, or check out Timberline Twister the smallest of our rollercoaster family". The park holds numerous restaurants and shops and has it's own first class hotel, The Knott?s Berry Farm Resort Hotel, which offers a variety of packages to suit your needs, including Snoopy themed rooms for children where Snoopy himself will visit and provide "tuck in" service. Check out Mrs. Knott's Chicken Dinner Restaurant, where 20,000,000 guests have eaten Mrs. Knott's traditional chicken dinners. "Each dinner is made from the "just-right" plump birds she insisted upon, and the fixin?s still include lighter-than-air buttermilk biscuits, fluffy mashed potatoes, rich chicken gravy and mouth-watering farm-fresh vegetables". The menu features other items as well including various lunch and dinner entrees, soups, salads, sandwiches and a complete Farm breakfast featuring French toast, pancakes, and daily specials. Knott's Berry Farm is an amusement park and resort for the whole family, try it. For more information about the city of Buena Park, California see http://buenapark.usacitydirectories.com, a directory of links to city of Buena Park, California guides and directories listing hotels, restaurants, information, resources, services, things to do, places to go and more.

Visiting Whistler in Summer


It is the end of the season for the year but a summer visit is preferred by many patrons who regularly visit the Twin Mountains. The whistler and Blackcomb rise above the valley and give a fantastic panoramic view. There is 7000 acres of the best mountain terrain available in North America. Here is more, the number of lifts that operate in the mountains, can log almost 50000 skiers an hour. This attests to the popularity of the region. This means two things that many folks attest that the place is worth the trip and secondly it also means ?that much crowded the place is in the peak season?. Summer is a good time to visit with your family and you can keep your adventures in the winter.

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