Lehigh Gorge State Park with River and cyclist on Lehigh Gorge Rail Trail path, Poconos Mountains, near Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania. Jumping Rocks / Universal Images Group / Getty Images
By Natalie Marchant
- The Great American Rail-Trail will be almost 6,000km when complete, and will serve 50 million people within 80km of the route.
- Trails have proved invaluable for recreation and transport during lockdown.
- Cycling and safe routes are vital for cities planning their post-pandemic recovery.
Stretching almost 6,000km and crossing 12 states, the Great American Rail-Trail will enable cyclists, hikers and riders to traverse the entire US.
<p>The multi-use trail will run from Washington DC in the east to Washington state on the Pacific coast. Launched in May 2019, the route will eventually connect more than <a href="https://www.railstotrails.org/greatamericanrailtrail/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">145 existing paths. So far more than 3,200km of it has been completed</a>.</p><p>Decades in the making, the project is led by the Rail-to-Trails Conservancy (RTC), which has raised <a href="https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/2020-progress-on-cross-country-great-american-rail-trail-includes-4-million-in-new-funding-and-2-000-miles-completed-301188644.html" target="_blank">more than $4 million in public and private funds</a>. It will serve <a href="https://www.railstotrails.org/greatamericanrailtrail/vision/" target="_blank">50 million people within 80km of the trail</a> once finished.</p>
COVID-19 Lockdown Proves Rail Trails Invaluable
<p>Rail trails – paths built on disused railway tracks – and other recreational routes have proved invaluable respites for many during the COVID-19 pandemic, providing alternative commuting routes and space for people to exercise, often near built-up urban areas.</p><p>"This year has proven how vital projects like the Great American Rail-Trail are to the country. Millions of people have found their way outside on trails as a way to cope with the pandemic," said Ryan Chao, president of RTC.</p><p>"As the Great American Rail-Trail connects more towns, cities, states and regions, this infrastructure serves as the backbone of resilient communities, while uniting us around a bold, ambitious and impactful vision."</p><img lazy-loadable="true" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTE3Mzc4NC9vcmlnaW4ucG5nIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY1MzYyODMyNH0.8jvrW-qlKrYTgiZ1orRe_0kbr_WsWskk3DURX5-MVY8/img.png?width=980" id="d763e" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="cc17db7e72e05d662013da4a5f3768af" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="1194" data-height="726" />
Great American Rail-Trail. Rails-to-trails
Cycling Increasingly Popular During Pandemic
<p>While multi-use trails can be used by anyone from joggers to horse riders, cycling has become particularly popular during lockdown both as a form of exercise and a method of transport. <a href="https://uk.reuters.com/article/uk-health-coronavirus-commuting/boost-for-bikes-as-europeans-gear-up-for-coronavirus-commute-idUKKBN22N1NK" target="_blank">Bike sales soared across the world</a> as people sought to avoid public transport.</p><p>There are the obvious <a href="https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/the-top-5-benefits-of-cycling" target="_blank">health benefits of traveling by bike</a>. Not only does it provide an aerobic workout and trigger the body's feel-good chemicals, endorphins, cycling is also easy on the joints, builds muscle, increases bone density and helps with everyday activities. Cycling is also seen as a way of handling post-pandemic pollution levels.</p><p>Paris is just one place <a href="https://www.weforum.org/videos/paris-is-planning-to-become-a-15-minute-city-897c12513b" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">planning to become a '15-minute city'</a>, where everything you need is within a 15-minute radius by foot or by bike.</p><p>Milan is implementing a similar program, while Buenos Aires has introduced free bike rental schemes. Europe has spent <a href="https://fr.weforum.org/videos/20195-this-is-covid-19-s-positive-effect-on-cycling-across-the-world" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">1 billion euros on cycling infrastructure</a> since the pandemic began, according to the European Cyclists' Federation.</p>Cycling Routes Across the World
<p>At around 5,955km, the Great American Rail-Trail may be particularly ambitious in terms of scale, but it is one of many innovative cycling projects across the world. The <a href="https://en.eurovelo.com/ev6" target="_blank">4,450km EuroVelo 6 route</a> runs through 10 countries as it crosses Europe between the Atlantic and the Black Sea.</p><p>The <a href="https://www.transpenninetrail.org.uk/?doing_wp_cron=1608492448.9104659557342529296875" target="_blank">346km Transpennine Trail</a> across the north of England, which opened in 2001, uses disused railway tracks left empty after the decline of the coal industry and passes through city centers, heritage sites and national parks on its way between coastlines.</p><p>Last year, the UK launched the <a href="https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2019/09/the-uk-has-opened-a-1-300-km-cycle-trail-linking-england-and-scotland/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">1,300km Great North Trail</a> running from the Peak District in the north of England to John O'Groats at Scotland's north-eastern tip.</p><p>In the Belgian province of Limburg, the <a href="https://www.visitlimburg.be/en/cycling-through-water" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Cycling Through Water path</a> enables cyclists to cut through the ponds of Bokrijk. The 200-meter path is at eye-level with the water, allowing riders to glide across the lake.</p><p>Meanwhile the 7.6km Xiamen bicycle skyway is the world's <a href="https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2019/06/these-are-the-5-most-exciting-cycling-projects-in-the-world/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">longest elevated cycle path</a> and runs above the Chinese city's road network. It has capacity for about 2,000 cyclists during rush hour, with much of it suspended under an elevated bus lane, providing shelter from the weather.</p><div class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="8a5f1521c3cba807297f04763c18e1ba"><div class="fb-video" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=1337884276572551" data-allowfullscreen="true"></div></div>
<p><em>Reposted with permission from </em><em><a href="https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2021/01/us-rail-trail-cycling-covid-19-recovery/" target="_blank">World Economic Forum</a>.</em></p>From Your Site Articles
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<p>However, finding healthy snacks in gas stations, convenience stores, and rest stops along your route is often challenging.</p><p>Plus, eating irregularly and sitting for hours on end while driving can lead to digestive issues like constipation and bloating, making healthy snacking all the more important.</p><p>As such, you should keep an eye out for nutritious snacks to pack with you or purchase along the way. Note that many portable and shelf-stable snack options are calorie-dense, so keep that in mind when traveling and your activity level is likely lower than normal.</p><p>Here are 14 healthy snacks that are perfect for road trips.</p>
<p><em>Reposted with permission from </em><a href="https://www.healthline.com/" target="_blank"><em>Healthline</em></a><em>. For detailed source information, please view the original article on </em><em><a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/healthy-road-trip-snacks" target="_blank">Healthline</a></em><em>.</em></p>
1. Fresh Fruit and Nut Butter
<p>Fresh fruit is not only highly nutritious but also easily portable.</p><p>During road trips, munching on hydrating, <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/22-high-fiber-foods" target="_blank">high-fiber foods</a> like fruit may keep your bowel movements regular and help prevent constipation caused by inactivity.</p><p>Apples, strawberries, and bananas are great paired with high protein nut butters like almond or peanut butter for a filling snack.</p><p>Nut butters are even sold in single-serve pouches, which can come in handy when you need a quick bite while driving. Brands like <a href="https://act.healthline.com/confirm_linkout_redirect.aspx?o=588&lp=328&g=4&link=1&tc=120288&subid=nutrition-healthy-road-trip-snacks-20&subid2=%2Fnutrition%2Fhealthy-road-trip-snacks&passthrough_k=artisana%20butter%20pouches&passthrough_ref=nb_sb_noss&passthrough_linkCode=ll2&passthrough_tag=nutrition-healthy-road-trip-snacks-20&passthrough_linkId=d9b20014dd49ca5875c63a31296b515e&passthrough_language=en_US" target="_blank">Artisana</a> and <a href="https://act.healthline.com/confirm_linkout_redirect.aspx?o=588&lp=328&g=4&link=1&tc=120288&subid=nutrition-healthy-road-trip-snacks-20&subid2=%2Fnutrition%2Fhealthy-road-trip-snacks&passthrough_k=Once%20Again%20squeeze%20pack&passthrough_i=grocery&passthrough_ref=nb_sb_noss&passthrough_linkCode=ll2&passthrough_tag=nutrition-healthy-road-trip-snacks-20&passthrough_linkId=375e8f279cf2811bdc3595fe5e630cca&passthrough_language=en_US" target="_blank">Once Again</a> offer unsweetened, organic nut butter squeeze packs.</p>2. Trail Mix
<p>Trail mix is a go-to snack for road trips — and for good reason. It doesn't require refrigeration, is easy to eat, and provides ample protein, healthy fats, and fiber to fuel you on those extra long road trips.</p><p>What's more, you can buy nutritious, low sugar versions at most rest stops and gas stations. Look for a variety with <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/9-healthy-nuts" target="_blank">nuts</a>, seeds, and unsweetened dried fruit — and steer clear of those that contain candies, candied nuts, and sugared fruits.</p><p>You can also make your own at home.</p><p>Start with raw or roasted nuts and seeds, then add your favorite unsweetened dried fruits. Toss in unsweetened dried coconut, <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/cacao-nibs" target="_blank">cacao nibs</a>, dark chocolate chips, or spices for extra flavor and crunch.</p><p>Note that even without added candy, trail mix is high in calories and best meant for — you guessed it — the trail. Keep this in mind if you are sitting for hours on end.</p><p>That said, trail mix also works as a meal replacement when other food choices are limited. Pairing trail mix with lower calorie fresh fruits or vegetables is one way to balance its calorie density.</p>3. Protein and Granola Bars
<p>Protein and granola bars are convenient, and most don't require refrigeration, making them a good choice for road trips.</p><p>Yet, many bars are loaded with added sugars and other <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/common-food-additives" target="_blank">unhealthy additives</a>, which is why it's important to choose products made from whole, nutritious ingredients like nuts, oats, chia seeds, egg whites, and dried fruit.</p><p>You can shop for nutritious bars online or at your local grocery store. Healthy brands include <a href="https://amzn.to/3a0p42n" target="_blank">RxBar</a>, <a href="https://amzn.to/2SZTsEl" target="_blank">Larabar</a>, <a href="https://act.healthline.com/confirm_linkout_redirect.aspx?o=588&lp=328&g=4&link=1&tc=120288&subid=nutrition-healthy-road-trip-snacks-20&subid2=%2Fnutrition%2Fhealthy-road-trip-snacks&passthrough_k=thunderbird%20bars&passthrough_ref=nb_sb_noss_1&passthrough_linkCode=ll2&passthrough_tag=nutrition-healthy-road-trip-snacks-20&passthrough_linkId=7922551552becd12be00f3eb2bf95d55&passthrough_language=en_US" target="_blank">Thunderbird</a>, <a href="https://act.healthline.com/confirm_linkout_redirect.aspx?o=588&lp=328&g=4&link=1&tc=120288&subid=nutrition-healthy-road-trip-snacks-20&subid2=%2Fnutrition%2Fhealthy-road-trip-snacks&passthrough_k=jonesbar&passthrough_ref=nb_sb_noss_2&passthrough_linkCode=ll2&passthrough_tag=nutrition-healthy-road-trip-snacks-20&passthrough_linkId=08c5e39f63b9b6885b6f688fcd38c9e9&passthrough_language=en_US" target="_blank">Jonesbar</a>, <a href="https://act.healthline.com/confirm_linkout_redirect.aspx?o=588&lp=328&g=4&link=1&tc=120288&subid=nutrition-healthy-road-trip-snacks-20&subid2=%2Fnutrition%2Fhealthy-road-trip-snacks&passthrough_k=go%20raw%20bar&passthrough_ref=nb_sb_noss_1&passthrough_linkCode=ll2&passthrough_tag=nutrition-healthy-road-trip-snacks-20&passthrough_linkId=ac7309344220eb0281a28bf9f8e0319d&passthrough_language=en_US" target="_blank">Go Raw</a>, and <a href="https://act.healthline.com/confirm_linkout_redirect.aspx?o=588&lp=328&g=4&link=1&tc=120288&subid=nutrition-healthy-road-trip-snacks-20&subid2=%2Fnutrition%2Fhealthy-road-trip-snacks&passthrough_k=purely%20elizabeth%20bars&passthrough_ref=nb_sb_noss_1&passthrough_linkCode=ll2&passthrough_tag=nutrition-healthy-road-trip-snacks-20&passthrough_linkId=a29e56637183cbe4302a196520c03798&passthrough_language=en_US" target="_blank">purely elizabeth</a>.</p>4. Energy Bites
<p>Energy bites, also called energy balls, are bite-sized morsels made from healthy ingredients like nuts, seeds, and dried fruit. Though small, they pack a punch of nutrition and calories.</p><p>You can easily make them at home and pack them in a cooler to take on the road. Check out <a href="https://joyfoodsunshine.com/paleo-chocolate-brownie-energy-bites/" target="_blank">this recipe</a> for energy bites that include dates, nuts, cocoa powder, and almond butter.</p><p>Additionally, companies like <a href="https://act.healthline.com/confirm_linkout_redirect.aspx?o=588&lp=328&g=4&link=1&tc=120288&subid=nutrition-healthy-road-trip-snacks-20&subid2=%2Fnutrition%2Fhealthy-road-trip-snacks&passthrough_k=navitas%20%22power%20snacks%22&passthrough_i=grocery&passthrough_ref=nb_sb_noss_2&passthrough_linkCode=ll2&passthrough_tag=nutrition-healthy-road-trip-snacks-20&passthrough_linkId=851f2205156508c341fa1e783e1843f2&passthrough_language=en_US" target="_blank">Navitas</a>, <a href="https://act.healthline.com/confirm_linkout_redirect.aspx?o=588&lp=328&g=4&link=1&tc=120288&subid=nutrition-healthy-road-trip-snacks-20&subid2=%2Fnutrition%2Fhealthy-road-trip-snacks&passthrough_k=ello%20raw&passthrough_ref=nb_sb_noss_1&passthrough_linkCode=ll2&passthrough_tag=nutrition-healthy-road-trip-snacks-20&passthrough_linkId=bc51ae2186495da8acf13436de5579d3&passthrough_language=en_US" target="_blank">Ello Raw</a>, and <a href="https://act.healthline.com/confirm_linkout_redirect.aspx?o=588&lp=328&g=4&link=1&tc=120288&subid=nutrition-healthy-road-trip-snacks-20&subid2=%2Fnutrition%2Fhealthy-road-trip-snacks&passthrough_k=made%20in%20nature%20energy&passthrough_ref=nb_sb_noss_2&passthrough_linkCode=ll2&passthrough_tag=nutrition-healthy-road-trip-snacks-20&passthrough_linkId=3bbfe019176c3b4131ac3c0870ffb63b&passthrough_language=en_US" target="_blank">Made in Nature</a> all make delicious energy balls.</p>5. Nuts and Seeds
<p>Nuts and seeds are delectable on their own and pair well with many other road trip snacks, including dried or fresh fruit.</p><p>Both nuts and seeds are high in protein, healthy fats, and fiber. In fact, eating more of these foods may decrease your risk of heart disease and <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/15-ways-to-lower-blood-sugar" target="_blank">lower your blood sugar levels</a>.</p><p>Walnuts, almonds, cashews, macadamia nuts, pumpkin seeds, and <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/sunflower-seeds" target="_blank">sunflower seeds</a> can supply a needed energy boost during your road trip.</p>6. Fruit and Veggie Chips
<p>Many road trippers turn to highly processed snacks like potato chips to satisfy their cravings. However, these chips are typically high in calories, sodium, and unhealthy additives.</p><p>If you long for a salty snack with a bit of crunch, try healthy chips made from dried fruits and vegetables instead. For example, baked apple chips, plantain chips, and <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/10-proven-benefits-of-kale" target="_blank">kale chips</a> make excellent stand-ins for their highly processed counterparts.</p><p>Choose products that don't contain added sugar or preservatives, or make your own fruit and veggie chips at home. Follow <a href="https://minimalistbaker.com/how-to-make-kale-chips/" target="_blank">this recipe</a> for crunchy kale chips that are ideal for travel.</p>7. Unsweetened Yogurt
<p>You can expand your snacking options during your road trip if you take a cooler.</p><p>Unsweetened yogurt is a great snack food that doubles as a quick breakfast when your choices are limited, but it needs to be kept cool to prevent spoilage, so be sure to fill your cooler with ice or ice packs.</p><p>Many flavored yogurts are high in added sugar, which you should limit. It's <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/best-yogurt-for-health" target="_blank">best to choose</a> unsweetened, plain varieties, then add your own toppings, such as berries, nuts, seeds, chia seeds, and dried coconut.</p><p>Unsweetened Greek yogurt is especially beneficial because it's <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/healthy-high-protein-snacks" target="_blank">packed with protein</a>, which helps keep you full.</p>8. Roasted Chickpeas
<p>Chickpeas are highly nutritious, providing protein, fiber, magnesium, folate, and zinc.<span></span></p><p>While taking a can of chickpeas on the road is doable but a little more cumbersome, dried chickpeas are portable and easy to eat while driving or navigating.</p><p>It's easy to make your own using <a href="https://www.jessicagavin.com/make-crispy-roasted-chickpeas-in-the-oven/" target="_blank">this recipe</a>.</p><p>Alternatively, you can purchase dried chickpeas in various flavors at your local health food store, as well as online.</p>9. Fresh Veggies and Nutritious Dip
<p>If you bring a cooler, <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/14-healthiest-vegetables-on-earth" target="_blank">fresh vegetables</a> like celery, broccoli, carrots, cucumbers, and peppers make scrumptious, low calorie road trip snacks.</p><p>Eating veggies can not only satisfy your crunch cravings but also reduce your risk of various illnesses, including obesity, certain cancers, and mental decline.</p><p>To boost the protein content and flavor of this snack option, pair fresh vegetables with <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/healthy-dips-and-spreads" target="_blank">nutrient-dense dips</a> like hummus or Greek yogurt dip.</p>10. Hard-Boiled Eggs
<p><a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/boiled-egg-nutrition" target="_blank">Hard-boiled eggs</a> are another option to power you through long car trips.</p><p>They're chock-full of healthy fats, protein, vitamin B12, <a href="https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Choline-HealthProfessional/" target="_blank">choline</a>, and antioxidants like <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/lutein-and-zeaxanthin" target="_blank">lutein and zeaxanthin</a>, making them a particularly nutritious choice.</p><p>Just be sure to keep them in a cooler with ice packs and eat them within 1 week.</p>11. Drinkable Soups
<p>Although soup may seem like an odd choice for a road trip, shelf-stable, drinkable soups are a healthy and convenient choice when driving. Plus, veggie-based soups can help you meet your nutrient needs when <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/fresh-vs-frozen-fruit-and-vegetables" target="_blank">fresh produce</a> is scarce.</p><p>Many companies make drinkable soups in portable containers that don't require refrigeration.</p><p>For example, <a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=41977X1601025&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fdrinkfawen.com%2F%23shop" target="_blank">Fawen</a> and <a href="https://act.healthline.com/confirm_linkout_redirect.aspx?o=588&lp=328&g=4&link=1&tc=120288&subid=nutrition-healthy-road-trip-snacks-20&subid2=%2Fnutrition%2Fhealthy-road-trip-snacks&passthrough_k=karine%20and%20jeff%20soup&passthrough_ref=nb_sb_noss_2&passthrough_linkCode=ll2&passthrough_tag=nutrition-healthy-road-trip-snacks-20&passthrough_linkId=69d90d4806d12703185d72e5bdb75383&passthrough_language=en_US" target="_blank">Karine & Jeff</a> offer high quality organic soups that you can drink straight from the bottle.</p>12. Avocados
<p>Whole avocados are a high fiber, high fat snack that's especially suitable if you're following a low carb diet.</p><p>Plus, they're full of nutrients like <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/high-potassium-foods" target="_blank">potassium</a>, folate, and vitamins C and E.</p><p>These buttery fruits can be salted and eaten with a spoon, or mashed and served with crackers or veggies during a break from driving. Bring a mix of ripe and unripe <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/12-proven-benefits-of-avocado" target="_blank">avocados</a> to ensure that you always have one that's ready to eat.</p>13. Cheese and Crackers
<p>Cheese and crackers make a classic snack for anyone looking for a quick bite on the road.</p><p>When buying crackers, choose whole grain products from brands like <a href="https://act.healthline.com/confirm_linkout_redirect.aspx?o=588&lp=328&g=4&link=1&tc=120288&subid=nutrition-healthy-road-trip-snacks-20&subid2=%2Fnutrition%2Fhealthy-road-trip-snacks&passthrough_k=simple%20mills%20crackers&passthrough_ref=nb_sb_noss_2&passthrough_linkCode=ll2&passthrough_tag=nutrition-healthy-road-trip-snacks-20&passthrough_linkId=e1f89d63170821e2aec12c8cf1fd534e&passthrough_language=en_US" target="_blank">Simple Mills</a>, <a href="https://act.healthline.com/confirm_linkout_redirect.aspx?o=588&lp=328&g=4&link=1&tc=120288&subid=nutrition-healthy-road-trip-snacks-20&subid2=%2Fnutrition%2Fhealthy-road-trip-snacks&passthrough_k=mary%27s%20gone%20crackers&passthrough_ref=nb_sb_noss_2&passthrough_linkCode=ll2&passthrough_tag=nutrition-healthy-road-trip-snacks-20&passthrough_linkId=5362f6e306892be56b4425e2ac34c130&passthrough_language=en_US" target="_blank">Mary's Gone Crackers</a>, and <a href="https://act.healthline.com/confirm_linkout_redirect.aspx?o=588&lp=328&g=4&link=1&tc=120288&subid=nutrition-healthy-road-trip-snacks-20&subid2=%2Fnutrition%2Fhealthy-road-trip-snacks&passthrough_k=jilz%20crackerz&passthrough_ref=nb_sb_noss_2&passthrough_linkCode=ll2&passthrough_tag=nutrition-healthy-road-trip-snacks-20&passthrough_linkId=6b47df0c76c84e25f6a90c7f8c081e13&passthrough_language=en_US" target="_blank">Jilz</a>.</p><p>Top your crackers with cheddar, brie, or <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/healthiest-cheese" target="_blank">your cheese of choice</a> for a satisfying, filling treat. You can also add fresh fruit for a hint of sweetness.</p>14. Dark Chocolate and Almonds
<p>When you're craving something sweet during a long road trip, don't cave into the endless candies, baked goods, and sugary beverages available at rest stops and gas stations.</p><p>Instead, pack your car with healthy options like <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/7-health-benefits-dark-chocolate" target="_blank">dark chocolate</a>.</p><p>This treat is loaded with powerful polyphenol antioxidants, which have anti-inflammatory and heart-protective properties. What's more, eating chocolate in moderation may safeguard against conditions like stroke and diabetes.</p><p>Add a handful of <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/9-proven-benefits-of-almonds" target="_blank">almonds</a> for a crunchy, fiber- and protein-rich snack.</p>The Bottom Line
<p>Although eating healthy on the road may seem difficult, planning ahead and bringing nutritious snacks can keep your body fueled and your hunger at bay.</p><p>If you take a cooler, fresh veggies, unsweetened yogurt, and hard-boiled eggs are great options. Other foods that don't necessarily need to be kept cool and are easy to store and eat on the road include fresh fruits, nuts, seeds, nut butter, drinkable soups, and protein bars.</p><p>Keep these snacks in mind when you're looking for portable, nutritious options for your next adventure.<br></p>From Your Site Articles
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Like many other plant-based foods and products, CBD oil is one dietary supplement where "organic" labels are very important to consumers. However, there are little to no regulations within the hemp industry when it comes to deeming a product as organic, which makes it increasingly difficult for shoppers to find the best CBD oil products available on the market.
<p>Here you can learn about the importance of organic hemp oil, why it's better for the environment, and which CBD companies actually make trustworthy products with sustainable farming processes. origins which weigh heavily on many consumers who want to buy a product that's produced in the best way possible for not only themselves to ingest, but for the environment as well through sustainable farming methods. </p><h2>What Is CBD Oil?</h2><p>First things first, CBD stands for cannabidiol, and it's a cannabinoid found within cannabis sativa plants. This plant compound is believed to have many potential benefits, and it is primarily derived from hemp plants via a CO2 extraction process. </p><p>Since CBD is extracted from industrial hemp, which contains only trace amounts of THC (the psychoactive component in cannabis plants), this means that CBD won't make you feel high like marijuana, which has much higher levels of THC that causes psychoactive effects. Instead, the effects of CBD are much more subtle and promote a general sense of calm and relaxation in most users.</p><h2>What Makes a CBD Oil Organic?</h2><p>In terms of organic labels, perhaps the most important (and prominent) certification comes from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). This government organization has been labeling foods as "organic" for many years, but what exactly does this certification entail? Essentially, a label indicating that a product is "USDA Organic" or "Certified Organic" means that at least 95% of the ingredients are obtained from organic sources.</p><p>For a crop to be considered organic by the USDA, it must be grown without the use of industrial solvents, irradiation, genetic engineering (GMOs), synthetic pesticides, or chemical fertilizer. Instead, farmers rely on natural substances and <a href="https://www.usda.gov/media/blog/2012/03/22/organic-101-what-usda-organic-label-means" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">mechanical, physical, or biologically based farming</a> techniques to cultivate healthy and organic crops.</p><p>Before the passage of the 2018 Farm Bill, no hemp-derived products could be dubbed as "certified organic" since the hemp plant and its extracts were still categorized as a Schedule I Controlled Substance. However, it's still difficult for CBD companies to obtain a USDA certified organic label for their products due to the legal grey area that still surrounds CBD extracts. </p><p>Because of these challenges, and due to the fact that industrial hemp has only recently become an agricultural crop, very few CBD oils are USDA certified organic. Rather, many CBD products contain hemp extracts from plants that were grown in organic conditions but may not be federally certified.</p><h2>What are the Best Organic CBD Oil Brands?</h2><p><em>Each product featured here has been independently selected by the writer. If you make a purchase using the links included, we may earn commission.</em></p><em><br></em>
<h2>Why Organic Hemp Oil Matters</h2><p>Hemp is a unique plant, not only for its rich cannabinoid content, but also for its ability to absorb a wide variety of components in soil. But this trait poses great risks when it comes to the creation of CBD products derived from hemp.</p><p>Because hemp has a high capacity for compound uptake, this means that the plants can retain <a href="https://www.remedyreview.com/industry/lab-test-results/" target="_blank">harmful chemicals like pesticides</a>, heavy metals, and other residual solvents. This is especially true when it comes to synthetic chemicals that are more toxic to humans, and difficult to remove once they have been absorbed by the hemp plant.</p><p>Organic farming practices help reduce the risk of hemp crops absorbing harsh chemicals that may later end up in CBD oil after extraction. When you're taking CBD as a wellness supplement to help alleviate your symptoms or improve your overall well-being, the last thing you want is to ingest compounds that might negatively outweigh the benefits of CBD. This is an important reason to look for third party lab test results when shopping for CBD products since these certificates of analysis can show the full cannabinoid and terpene profile of a hemp extract, as well as test results that search for the presence of any residual solvents.</p><p>In addition to creating a better end product, organic farming practices are also better for the environment. Sustainable and organic farming methods may <a href="https://www.helpguide.org/articles/healthy-eating/organic-foods.htm" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">reduce pollution, conserve water, reduce soil erosion, increase soil fertility, and use less energy</a>. The use of natural pest deterrents as opposed to chemical pesticides is also better for nearby animal populations and ecosystems.</p><h3>Organic vs. Natural</h3><p>While there are only a select few companies offering certified organic ingredients in their products, almost every brand in the CBD market creates "natural" products. The term "all-natural" or "plant-based" does not mean that a product is organic, and since hemp oil is a natural derivative of hemp plants, these products are often referred to as all-natural. However, there are some synthetic CBD oils that should be avoided because they are chemically constructed and may produce unwanted side effects that are not caused by naturally derived CBD extracts.</p><h2>What are the Benefits of Organic CBD Oil?</h2><p>There's a long list of potential CBD oil health benefits, and some of the most common wellness advantages include:</p><ul class="ee-ul"><li><a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2503660/" target="_blank">Chronic pain relief</a></li><li><a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4604171/" target="_blank">Anti-anxiety effects</a></li><li>Better sleep</li><li><a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/inner-source/201901/cbd-oil-mental-health-should-you-take-it-too" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Improvements in mood</a></li><li>Internal balance and regulation</li></ul><p>When dealing with pain, inflammation, sleep issues, and mental health struggles, it can be hard to find sufficient treatment options. The use of certain prescriptions can cause unwanted side effects, yet they are often the only solution for patients with these medical conditions. In search of other therapies, people have started to flock towards CBD oil as an alternative remedy for a variety of conditions. However, it should be noted that CBD products are not approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and you should seek your doctor's advice before using CBD if you have a serious medical condition.</p><h2>Look at the Labels Before You Buy CBD Oil</h2><p>When you go online to buy CBD oil, you'll quickly realize there is an overwhelming number of brands that are saturating the market. It can be difficult to determine which products are truly as good as they make themselves out to be. Always look for up-to-date third-party lab tests so you know you are getting a great product, and don't hesitate to contact the brand if you have any additional questions. And if you're intent on purchasing 100% organic CBD oil, it's best to look for certified products or brands that are held to strict regulatory standards.</p><p><strong>Melena Gurganus </strong>is the Reviews Editor at EcoWatch. She is passionate health and wellness and her writing aims to help others find products they can trust. Her work has been featured in publications such as Health, Shape, Huffington Post, Cannabis Business Times, and Bustle.<br></p>
Spruce
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNDY4NjI3OC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYyOTM2NzgzOX0.axY0HjeqRctJsR_KmDLctzDpUBLBN-oNIdqaXDb4caQ/img.jpg?width=980" id="774be" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="8379f35b1ca8a86d0e61b7d4bfc8b46e" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" alt="spruce organic cbd oil" data-width="710" data-height="959" /><p>As one of the best brands in the business, Spruce CBD is well-known for its potent CBD oils that feature many additional beneficial phytocannabinoids. This brand works with two family-owned, sustainably focused farms in the USA (one located in Kentucky and one in North Carolina) to create its organic, small product batches. The max potency Spruce CBD oil contains 2400mg of full-spectrum CBD extract, but the brand also offers a lower strength tincture with 750mg of CBD in total.</p>
$89
CBDistillery
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNDcwMjkzNC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYyMTU4OTM4Nn0.ypRdeDSBcE87slYrFfVrRwtJ2qGIK6FD5jBB4pndTMo/img.jpg?width=980" id="b473b" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="9930b53c9d58cb49774640a61c3e3e75" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" alt="cbdistillery cbd oil" data-width="1244" data-height="1244" /><p>All of the products from CBDistillery are <a href="https://ushempauthority.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">U.S. Hemp Authority Certified</a>, and for good reason. The company only uses non-GMO and pesticide-free industrial hemp that's grown organically on Colorado farms. Its hemp oils are some of the most affordable CBD products on the market, yet they still maintain a high standard of quality. CBDistillery has a wide variety of CBD potencies across its product line (ranging from 500mg to 5000mg per bottle) and offers both full-spectrum and broad-spectrum CBD oils to give customers a completely thc-free option.</p>
$35
FAB CBD
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNDY4NjIyNS9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY2NDIwOTEyMn0.MlTjz096FJ0ev_-soK7_Z-FeQeJczWoeh9Qi9SSkHsY/img.jpg?width=980" id="04b26" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="76aa4862f44603242e318982acea6646" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" alt="fab cbd oil" data-width="800" data-height="800" /><p>For an organic CBD oil that has it all, FAB CBD offers plenty of variety for any type of consumer. All of its products are made with zero pesticides and extracted from organically grown Colorado industrial hemp. FAB CBD oil comes in five all-natural flavors (mint, vanilla, berry, citrus, and natural) and is also available in four strengths (300, 600, 1200, and 2400mg per bottle).</p>
$39
NuLeaf Naturals
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNDY4NjIxOS9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY1NzExNTgyMX0.D6qMGYllKTsVhEkQ-L_GzpDHVu60a-tJKcio7M1Ssmc/img.jpg?width=980" id="94e4a" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="3609a52479675730893a45a82a03c71d" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" alt="nuleaf naturals organic cbd oil" data-width="600" data-height="600" /><p>As an industry-leading brand, it comes as no surprise that NuLeaf Naturals sources its CBD extract from organic hemp plants grown on licensed farms in Colorado. The comany's CBD oils only contain two ingredients: USDA certified organic hemp seed oil and full spectrum hemp extract.</p><p>NuLeaf Naturals uses one proprietary CBD oil formula for all of its products, so you will get the same CBD potency in each tincture (60mg per mL), but can purchase different bottle sizes depending on how much you intend to use.</p>
$38.50
Charlotte's Web
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNDcwMjk3NS9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY0MzQ0NjM4N30.SaQ85SK10-MWjN3PwHo2RqpiUBdjhD0IRnHKTqKaU7Q/img.jpg?width=980" id="84700" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="a2174067dcc0c4094be25b3472ce08c8" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" alt="charlottes web cbd oil" data-width="1244" data-height="1244" /><p>Perhaps one of the most well-known brands in the CBD landscape, Charlotte's Web has been growing sustainable hemp plants for several years. The company is currently in the process of achieving official USDA Organic Certification, but it already practices organic and sustainable cultivation techniques to enhance the overall health of the soil and the hemp plants themselves, which creates some of the highest quality CBD extracts. Charlotte's Web offers CBD oils in a range of different concentration options, and some even come in a few flavor options such as chocolate mint, orange blossom, and lemon twist.</p>
$60
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Some backcountry skiers and snowboarders are not just hitting the slopes. They're measuring how deep the snow is and sending the data to climate scientists.
<p>Listen here:<em></em></p>
<iframe style="border: none" src="//html5-player.libsyn.com/embed/episode/id/13184339/height/45/theme/standard/thumbnail/yes/direction/backward/" height="45" width="100%" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen webkitallowfullscreen mozallowfullscreen oallowfullscreen msallowfullscreen></iframe><p>"Data is lacking in mountain areas across the globe and particularly in western North America," says Gabriel Wolken of the University of Alaska, Fairbanks. "And if we don't have a better understanding of how snow is distributed in these areas, we have a limited amount of baseline data to evaluate changes in the future."</p><p>Wolken says melting mountain snow feeds rivers and lakes through the spring, summer, and fall. So understanding and predicting changes in the snowpack is important for managing water supplies.</p><p>But collecting data is time-consuming. So five years ago, when Wolken and other researchers were working in Alaska, they asked a local ski club for help.</p>
<p>"We gave them GPS and of course they all had avalanche probes in their backpacks," Wolken says. "And we said, 'OK, go out and sample as much as you can.'"</p><p>The effort was a success, and soon the NASA-funded <a target="_blank" href="http://communitysnowobs.org/">Community Snow Observations</a> project was born. Now, thousands of volunteers from around the world have submitted observations — serving science while they're out having fun.</p>
<p class=""><em>Reposted with permission from <a href="https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/2020/02/skiers-and-snowboarders-send-snow-data-to-climate-scientists/" rel="noopener noreferrer">Yale Climate Connections</a>.</em></p>From Your Site Articles
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Trending
Wildlife overpass in Banff National Park. Craig Zerbe / iStock / Getty Images
By Trisha White
It is now officially summer and that means many Americans are packing up the family truckster like the Griswolds and taking the tribe cross country. Whether you're on your way to America's favorite family fun park or a national park, staying in a motel or sleeping under the stars, you may be seeing wildlife in their native habitat. And if you keep your eyes open, you might see a special part of our built environment ー a wildlife crossing.
What is a wildlife crossing?
<p>Wildlife crossings are clever, man-made structures built over or under highways that allow animals to cross the roadway without having to enter the right of way, preventing deadly accidents. In addition to preventing wildlife-vehicle collisions, they reconnect habitat that has been carved up by roads, allowing animals to move safely around their habitat. <br></p><p>Unless you know where to look, you might not even notice them. Crossings may seem like a regular overpass or underpass from the road, but they have vegetation and other habitat features to make them more inviting for animals.</p>Which wildlife species use wildlife crossings?
<p>Wildlife crossings help many different species, from muskrats to mountain lions ─ and yes, even Marty Moose! (<em>The moosiest moose we know…</em>)</p><p>Since animals can be picky about what kinds of structures they will use, crossings are specifically designed to fit snugly into the landscape around them, and are custom made for the species that will use them. Some critters that are more adaptable, like coyote and deer, will take to crossings right away, while others may take longer to get used to them. After all, the crossings are a new experience for them and can be scary at first. <br></p><p>Biologists believe each species' preferences are based on their environment and how they evolved. For example, ungulates with antlers (deer, elk, moose) prefer open structures like an overpass. Smaller animals that are used to more cover are more comfortable in small crossings like a culvert. Eventually mother animals teach their young to use them, passing along the intergenerational knowledge just like other behaviors.</p>Where can we see a wildlife crossing?
<p><br>Although wildlife crossings are relatively new to the U.S., we have them from coast to coast. Here are just a few examples you might see this summer near popular destinations:<br></p><img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMDU2NzgyOC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY2MDEzODU4Mn0.rgvn4L-GUuExYz7eJVfBNuhfwOQttCyQNo5ip4ytHWc/img.jpg?width=980" id="2e47e" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="97de1e2ba5563dd81ddc4e6347087aef" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" />Trisha White
Mountains
<p>Are you motoring through the many mountains of Montana? Drive U.S. Highway 93 across the Flathead Indian Reservation to see the <a href="https://www.mdt.mt.gov/pubinvolve/us93info/wildlife_crossings.shtml" target="_blank">most extensive wildlife-sensitive highway design effort</a> in the U.S. to date. A whopping 81 wildlife crossing structures were built over a 76-mile stretch of highway, keeping 25 species safe, such as elk, mountain lions, bobcats, badgers, grizzlies and black bears.</p><img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMDU2NzgyNS9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYzNzQ4MDEyMH0.hVpWPlx6IUj0yQIdzqVoQ25UNWdlrKiNflbLh2NpKr8/img.jpg?width=980" id="da5de" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="ea7af2c298ee6f379a439f22473c9e62" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" />The Montana 93 overpass.
Kylie Paul
Eastern Shore
<p>On your way to the beach, you may choose the 18-mile <a href="https://www.baltimoresun.com/news/environment/bs-xpm-2011-01-02-bs-gr-wildlife-highways-20110102-story.html" target="_blank">Intercounty Connector (ICC)</a>. Opened in 2011, the ICC has ten underpasses providing safe passage for deer, foxes, raccoons, groundhogs, skunks, snakes and great blue herons.</p><img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMDU2NzgyNC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY3MzI1ODQ1NX0.w6nRjZLizacEER4V7tCVXb3iXr5pw20GAriEhyBZEFM/img.jpg?width=980" id="adc57" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="67e00cab72ab523cbf39a6f968a35000" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" />Maryland State Highway Administration
Hollywood
<p>Wildlife in La-La Land? You bet! While you're stuck in traffic on the 405, wildlife will be cruising along the 31-mile stretch of the Puente-Chino Hills Wildlife corridor. Along the way, they will pass through the <a href="https://www.habitatauthority.org/harbor-boulevard-wildlife-underpass/" target="_blank">Harbor Boulevard Wildlife Underpass</a>, connecting 4,600 acres of protected habitat to the west with 14,000 acres to the east. Built in 2006, the underpass serves mule deer, coyotes, bobcats, squirrels, opossum, raccoons and jackrabbits. Without it, many of these species would have been trapped on the west side of Harbor Boulevard and possibly extirpated.</p><img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMDU2NzgyMi9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY2NjAyNTAxNX0.ncmVXt_CWenixMMwVxNpEwgFiRp7PuJc6tMm4GSOrU4/img.jpg?width=980" id="879db" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="dc722664e1e624e56ccacff4db41d9ea" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" /><p>So after you drop off Aunt Edna in Phoenix, skip the house of mud and <a href="https://blog.nwf.org/2019/06/for-wildlife-theres-no-app-for-that/" target="_blank">learn more </a>about keeping wildlife on the move while you're waiting in line at the world's second largest ball of twine. Have a great summer!</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Is your family taking a road trip this summer? While you drive on the highway, wildlife may be safely crossing above or below you! Keep an eye out for these structures: <a href="https://t.co/VKlYLB9JrU">https://t.co/VKlYLB9JrU</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/wildlifecrossing?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#wildlifecrossing</a> <a href="https://t.co/jOG6aWprHQ">pic.twitter.com/jOG6aWprHQ</a></p>— National Wildlife Federation (@NWF) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWF/status/1161726931882192896?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 14, 2019</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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Pexels
The year 2019 is the year of the pig, and we speculate that it's also the year of the vegan (how many dating profiles have bragged about animal-free diets recently?). With 55 percent of Americans vowing to eat more plant-forward diets this year, it's clear that our focus has shifted from consuming animals to cuddling with them. Lovers of all things furry can now stay overnight at farms that house and rehabilitate animals across the U.S. When you stay at one of these sanctuaries, you'll be guaranteed quality time with critters and contribute to the longevity of the farms' initiatives, so you can sleep even easier.
Farm Sanctuary
<img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMDUwNTE4OS9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYyODg4MTQ1MH0.YQHkC94Octh2YyKyn1YtKKuD3ELCbDMje9k-BAgXnJM/img.jpg?width=980" id="6689c" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="4638be4fdff0b129fbbe1d6e230230de" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" />Farm Sanctuary
<p><strong>Watkins Glen, New York</strong></p><p>If waking up on a farm to sheep, pigs and cows awaiting belly rubs is your dream, let <a href="https://www.farmsanctuary.org/" target="_blank">Farm Sanctuary</a> in the Finger Lakes make it a reality. Beginning in the mid-'80s as an animal activist group (cofounder and president Gene Baur would sell vegan hotdogs out of a Volkswagen bus at Grateful Dead concerts and inform attendees about the injustices of factory farming), Farm Sanctuary now houses 800 rescue animals in its flagship location alone. Here, they are spared from slaughterhouses, factory farms and stockyards. Guests can visit the farm for the day and have a picnic (vegan, of course) or stay overnight in their <a href="http://www.book-it-now.com/farmsanctuary/?general" target="_blank">tiny houses</a> (starting at $160 a night). Farm Sanctuary also has a second location in Acton, California.<br></p>San Diego Farm Animal Rescue
<img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMDUwNTE5Ny9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY1NzgzNDQxN30.g0hNanEKmVs7AacHN_iiLDC5QpYKpLmUaJGAe47z3Oo/img.jpg?width=980" id="15e17" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="c5dd244ff8a3ebe3c856d56a51cba7d6" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" />San Diego Farm Animal Rescue
<p><strong>San Diego, Califo</strong><strong>rnia</strong></p><p>Just 15 minutes from the beaches of Encinitas,<a href="http://sdfarmanimalrescue.org/" target="_blank"> San Diego Farm Animal Rescue</a> is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that rehabilitates and finds forever homes for animals and advocates for sustainability through educational programs available to the public. Guests can stay in <a href="https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/6914455?source_impression_id=p3_1560623778_K8Mp1wV7u%2BL3aEuv" target="_blank">cozy cottages</a> right on the farm, where 100 percent of your $99-a-night stay will go to the animals. You can play with and feed horses, pigs, chickens and roosters while you're there.</p>Animal Place
<p><strong>Grass Valley, California</strong></p><p>Located in the Sierra Nevada foothills in California, <a href="https://animalplace.org/" target="_blank">this animal sanctuary</a>, which started in 1989, is one of the oldest in the U.S. Meet Cleo the pig, Butterscotch the goat and more than 300 rescued animals who call this farm home. The guesthouse on the property accommodates up to 10 people (it's $750 to book the entire house, or you can rent individual rooms for $200 a night). The owners ask that you bring only cruelty-free products with you. You can book a stay in the guesthouse, which comes with a free guided tour of the farm and allows you to meet the animals, or a longer, private tour for $75.</p>Kindness Ranch
<p><strong>Hartville, Wyoming</strong></p><p><strong></strong>Devoted to rescuing research animals, <a href="https://www.kindnessranch.org/" target="_blank">Kindness Ranch</a> gives dogs, cats, sheep, horses and pigs a new lease on life on its 1,000-acre paradise. The ranch works to domesticate and rehabilitate animals that have only known labs and strives to find them forever homes. Opened in 2006, the ranch has rescued more than 1,000 animals and counting. Its pet-friendly one- and two-bedroom yurts can be reserved for $109 and $150 a night, respectively.</p>
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By Carol Pucci, Yasmeen Wafai and Zeb Larson
<img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8xOTYzNjY4Ni9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY1MzEyMjI1Nn0.mE30LOHkNBi5FIwKPVHMWCMRqmBsQb1Q-X5M1eGRAfM/img.jpg?width=980" id="49c4a" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="6e416620193bfc102e479c72c5b55f72" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" /><p><strong></strong><strong>Share a meal in a local household.</strong> <a href="https://www.eatwith.com/" target="_blank">Eatwith.com</a> and <a href="https://www.mealsharing.com/" target="_blank">Mealsharing.com</a> connect travelers with people in host countries who love to entertain. Prices vary. Eight other guests and I recently paid $49 each, staying past midnight sharing food, wine, and conversation in the home of a French journalist covering the yellow vest protests in Paris. <a href="http://saigonhotpot.vn/" target="_blank" title="">Saigon Hotpot</a> sets up meals in university students' homes as well as city and street food tours in Ho Chi Minh City.</p><p><strong>Trade off hosting. </strong>More than 2,000 households in 48 states and 50 countries participate in the <a href="http://affordabletravelclub.net/" target="_blank" title="">Affordable Travel Club</a>, a Washington state-based hospitality exchange group for people over 40. Hosts offer an extra bedroom, breakfast, and an hour of their time to acquaint travelers with the area. Members pay a gratuity of $15 (single) or $20 (double) per night to defray costs, but most hosts open their homes for the experience of meeting new people rather than the income.<strong></strong></p><p><strong>Walk and talk.</strong> Spend time with a <a href="http://globalgreeternetwork.com/" target="_blank" title="">Global Greeter</a> volunteer who likes sharing what they love most about their hometown. Greeters act not as guides, but as new friends in destinations all over the world. I recently hung out with Valerie, 42, a volunteer in Lyon, France, wandering through the city's network of underground passages and visiting her favorite places, such as sampling oysters and white wine at a Sunday market. The service is free, although visitors are welcome to make an online donation to the Greeters network. — <em>Carol Pucci</em></p>
<img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8xOTYzNjY4OC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYxNDE4OTUxOH0.u2_y_gXAHK-XNQF8pjAG3zXR6SCdHe9yNGaWLbiqvTg/img.jpg?width=980" id="dcdc8" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="a43fa8a25eaef917685064b832e0411e" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" /><p><strong></strong><strong>Lodge locally. </strong>Sleep where your dollars make a difference by staying in independently owned hotels, small inns, and homestays rather than internationally owned chain hotels. Look for hotels that partner with nonprofit organizations to train and employ disadvantaged youth. The Responsible Travel Guide Cambodia led me to Robam Inn in Siem Reap, whose owners returned to start the business after taking refuge in Canada during the Khmer Rouge regime.</p><p><strong>Spend intentionally. </strong>Eat and shop at places dedicated to fair trade. Consult listings on the <a href="http://wfto.com/" target="_blank" title="">World Fair Trade Organization's website</a>. Explore beyond tourist areas where small entrepreneurs can't always afford the high rents. This is how I found Belil, an art gallery and cafe in San Cristóbal de las Casas, Mexico, selling textiles made by a women's weaving cooperative.</p><p><strong>Tour responsibly. </strong>Use local, independent guides. University students working for tips often guide tours listed on freetour.com, a website that offers group walks in dozens of cities worldwide. <a href="http://globalexchange.org/" target="_blank" title="">Global Exchange</a>, a San Francisco-based human rights organization, sponsors "Reality Tours" focused on relationship-building and promoting local economies. An upcoming trip to Palestine will include homestays with farmers during the fall olive harvest and visits with fair trade cooperatives on the West Bank. — <em>Carol Pucci</em></p>
<img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8xOTYzNjY5MC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY0MTM5MTI4NX0.b9-rAAB_ogd1yebxcz1zO1mM2sFCy2z1I2fuoIsxhpE/img.jpg?width=980" id="ed5ed" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="a404baeea3a9a36e9effbe75ad5f57b1" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" /><p><strong></strong><strong>Visit a national park — but take the train. </strong>Help decrease vehicle traffic at these parks and support the struggling <a href="http://amtrakvacations.com/" target="_blank" title="">Amtrak</a>, which offers trips to places like Yellowstone National Park, the Grand Canyon and Glacier National Park. You could travel roundtrip to the Grand Canyon, stay two nights in a hotel and two nights onboard, with breakfast and dinner included. Or maybe a trip to Glacier aboard historic Empire Builder with three nights in a hotel and a tour of the park. More than 100 packages are available.</p><p><strong>Do some citizen science. </strong>If you're out and about in nature, you can plug into a ton of projects, such as a BioBlitz using the iNaturalist app. It's a cool exercise that lets you record as many plant and animal species as possible in a designated area and time, while contributing useful data for science and conservation. A green tree frog in Texas and a wapiti in Alaska are just two of the more than 206,000 species documented so far. Or you can measure light pollution and send your data to web app Globe at Night.</p><p><strong>Build a trail in Washington state. </strong><a href="http://wta.org/" target="_blank" title="">Washington Trails Association</a> offers a volunteer vacations program where you can escape for eight days with a group of fellow volunteers to help maintain trails. Trails are important to our environment because they help limit potentially negative impacts on natural areas. Food and tools are provided, and camping options are available as well, including car and backcountry. You'll have time to relax and explore on your own. Options include Kalaloch Beach on the Olympic Peninsula, Lake Chelan in the Central Cascades, and Deception Pass State Park on the Puget Sound. — <em>Yasmeen Wafai </em></p>
<img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8xOTYzNjY5MS9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYxNTc0NzU0Nn0.EdzKeU7C2d_b_4dXIQrkLfnVI7qAISdBOAwzq-RDg14/img.jpg?width=980" id="59372" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="abb8b38bedbdc549743140881a60dce0" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" /><p><strong></strong><a href="http://makingtheroad.com/" target="_blank" title=""><strong>Making the Road</strong></a> is a Chicago-based group that uses travel seminars to educate U.S. participants about the liberation movements and histories of southern Africa. The tours are led by long-time civil rights and labor activist Prexy Nesbitt, who was closely involved with the liberation movements in Mozambique, Angola, Namibia, Zimbabwe, and South Africa. Travelers meet labor leaders, artists, politicians, and intellectuals to educate themselves about the shared issues that southern Africans and Americans face, such as racism, labor struggles, and militarism.</p><p><strong>DeTour</strong> exists to change the image of Hawai'i as a tourist playground, a perception that ignores its occupation and oppression by the U.S. military and its treatment of Native Hawaiians. DeTours' decolonizing tourist experience encourages visitors to support Hawaiians' wish for sovereignty. Stops include areas polluted by the military and sites important to Polynesian and ancient Hawaiian history—all to show a side of Hawai'i out of the shadows of U.S. imperialism.</p><p><a href="http://veteransforpeace.org/" target="_blank" title=""><strong>Veterans for Peace</strong></a> was formed in 1985 by U.S. veterans to increase public awareness of the causes and costs of war and to oppose militarism and arms proliferation. The nonprofit has hundreds of chapters worldwide, including one in Vietnam composed of former servicemen who live there and organize annual tours across the country. The tours are designed to show damage left by the war in Vietnam and to raise funds for ongoing work, such as ordnance removal and support for victims of Agent Orange. — <em>Zeb Larson</em></p>
<em>Reposted with permission from our media associate <a href="https://www.yesmagazine.org/issues/travel/tips-vacation-social-justice-20190701" target="_blank">YES! Magazine</a>.</em>
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Golde Wallingford submitted this photo of "Pure Joy" to EcoWatch's first photo contest. Golde Wallingford
EcoWatch is pleased to announce our third photo contest!
<p>Summer is a time when our EcoWatchers are outdoors more, enjoying nature. We love all the beautiful things the planet has to offer. Many special moments have us pulling out our camera to capture those occasions in awe of our environment. But don't keep those great images to yourself! We want you to share your best summer snapshot with us, and our readers. Whether it's a vacation photo, a day at the beach or the beauty of your backyard, snap a pic and submit your image to our contest.</p><p>The "Best of Summer" photo will be chosen by our judges to win a $250 Patagonia eGift card. We will also be awarding an "EcoWatchers' Choice" prize of a $100 Patagonia eGift card for the photo most loved by our readers. We will allow readers like you to vote monthly to decide on the best July submission, the best August submission, and finally vote between the two to decide the winner of the "EcoWatchers' Choice" prize!</p><p>So enjoy your summer, take in the beauty of your surroundings and show us what you see!</p>
<p>Submit your photo to <a href="mailto:bautista@ecowatch.com" target="_blank">bautista@ecowatch.com</a> with the subject line "ECOWATCH SUMMER PHOTO CONTEST" by September 11th for a chance to win and to have your photo appear on EcoWatch.com. To be considered, submit your photo with the following information:</p><ol><li>Name</li><li>Email</li><li>Phone Number</li><li>Photo Submission (.jpeg file format recommended)</li><li>Caption</li><li>Facebook and Instagram profiles (if available)</li></ol><p>Our judges will choose the winning photo and the winner will be announced September 23rd. The EcoWatchers' Choice award winner will also be announced September 23rd.</p>
<p><strong>Contest Judges</strong></p><p><strong></strong>Gary and Sam Bencheghib</p><p>Brothers Gary and Sam Bencheghib are environmental activists and filmmakers. They founded Make a Change World, a media outlet that uncovers uplifting and inspirational stories on a mission to do good. They are passionate about creating social change through videos and giving a voice to the underrepresented. Together they have launched a series of expeditions from kayaking the world's dirtiest river on plastic bottles to stand-up paddling down New York's most toxic waterways. In the past three years, their work has been seen by more than 600 million people. This summer, while Gary bamboo bikes the Indonesian archipelago, Sam is set to become the first person to run across the American continent with recycled plastic shoes.</p>
<p>Anthony Bucci</p><p>Anthony Bucci is a wildlife photographer who grew up in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. He has donated numerous prints and other products to various wildlife societies across Canada, silent auctions and other fundraisers to raise funds for wildlife conservation and well-being. Anthony is currently on the raptor pick up list for O.W.L Orphaned Wildlife Rehabilitation Center in Delta BC, Canada. He feels it's important to give back to the wildlife conservation efforts and helping where Anthony can is a task he takes seriously. To Anthony, his wildlife photography is more than just taking pictures. Thinking about conservation and the well-being of all wildlife is always on his mind.<span></span></p>
<p>Amos Nachoum</p><p>Amos has led great expeditions for individual adventurers and institutions like Apple, IBM, Microsoft, Discovery Channel, Armani, Disney and Columbia Pictures. For National Geographic, he was team leader for separate photo expeditions to document the Red Sea, great white sharks and killer whales. His photos and essays have appeared in hundreds of publications around the globe, including <em>National Geographic, Time, Life, The New York Times, Condé Nast Traveler, Le Figaro, Terra Sauvage, Airone, Mondo Somerso, Der Spiegel, Unterwasser</em> and many more. His work has also been included in the books The Living Ocean, The World of Nature, and Oceans. He has appeared on National Geographic Explorer, Today, and Good Morning America and featured in <em>People, Esquire</em> and <em>Money</em> magazines. Amos's photography has won Nikon, Communication Arts, and BBC Wildlife Photographer of the Year awards.</p>
<p>Margarita Samsonova</p><p>Margarita is a zoologist, sustainability activist, travel enthusiast and social media Influencer who uses the power of her social media to influence people to make more sustainable choices when traveling. After visiting more than 60 countries and seeing what actually happens to our planet, such as how plastic and food waste affects the environment, she decided to take a stand to speak about it and encourage people to care a little bit more about nature. Sustainability is the main focus of Margarita's social posts, and she speaks a lot about eco lifestyle, responsible traveling, ethical wildlife encounters, supporting locals and living in unity with nature.</p>
<p><strong>Contest Details</strong></p><p><em>By entering this photo contest, you are granting EcoWatch the right to use your photo on our site and our media channels in conjunction with this contest without the written permission. Unless otherwise instructed, EcoWatch reserves the right to use photo submissions on our site and in our media channels aside from the contest. If you do not wish to give EcoWatch the rights to use your photo aside from the current photo contest that you are participating in, please let us know within your email submission with the text, "No, I do not want to give EcoWatch the rights to use my photos in other media aside from the current photo contest that I am participating in."</em></p><ul><li>Photo submissions must be original work taken by the contest entrant.</li><li>By entering this photo contest you are granting EcoWatch the right to use your photo on our site and our media channels in conjunction with this contest without the written permission.</li><li>Unless otherwise instructed, EcoWatch reserves the right to use photo submissions on our site and in our media channels aside from the contest.</li><li>The winner's name will be announced alongside the winning photo submission.</li><li>Photos that have already been submitted to other contests currently ongoing or have already won prizes in other contests are not eligible.</li><li>Image files created through any device capable of taking still images, such as smartphones and digital still cameras, will be accepted.</li><li>Color and monochrome images are valid for entry.</li><li>After judging concludes, the winners will be notified by email sent to their listed email address. The Patagonia eGift Card will be sent to the same listed email address.</li></ul><p><strong>Disclaimers</strong></p><ul><li>EcoWatch reserves the right to void entries that depict brand logos or other intellectual property, whether on electronic signs, posters, or in other forms, or that in its judgment are harmful to public order, go against standards of decency, or are conflicting to the goals of the contest.</li><li>EcoWatch is not responsible for the resolution of legal issues arising from the entrants' submitted photos and will not pay any costs thereby incurred.</li><li>EcoWatch does not bear any costs to the entrants that are incurred by entering the contest.</li><li>Submitted entries may not be withdrawn or returned.</li><li>EcoWatch reserves the right to suspend or postpone the receipt of any or all entries if it is judged that the contest is unable to be run effectively, smoothly, or without affecting the fairness of judging.</li></ul>
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Denali national park. Domen Jakus / Flickr / CC BY-NC 2.0
By Stephanie Gagnon
Happy National Parks Week! This year, between April 20 and 28, escape to the beautiful national parks — either in person or in your imagination — and celebrate the amazing wildlife that calls these spaces home.
<p>Here are 5 ways to celebrate our national treasures:</p>
1. Kick off the week with free entry to all national parks on Saturday, April 20.
<img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8xOTQwNTkzOC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY3MDE5OTI1NX0.qPy9L04zr04LwopiTAvF1O6poB9nmAdHe48VoWao9to/img.jpg?width=980" id="094cd" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="5de2975a261635b32faaa538c31ac585" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" />Grand Teton National Park.
David Keener
<p>The National Park Service offers <a href="https://www.nps.gov/planyourvisit/fee-free-parks.htm" target="_blank">5 free entry days </a>each year, where fees to enter the park are waived. This is a great opportunity to visit your first national park and see what the buzz is about. Check out their <a href="https://findyourpark.com/" target="_blank">Find Your Park website</a> and make plans today!</p>2. Take photos of wildlife (from a distance).
<img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8xOTQwNTk0My9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYxNzAzMzYwMX0.HVHEl9teame5yoLzSMB9pHgQ9XF_5nI6L1m9VJfska0/img.jpg?width=980" id="3e6fa" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="2a5b8166ef82e3ce99db4f895196872d" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" />Roseate spoonbills feed in Florida's shallow waters by swinging their heads from side to side and sifting muck with their flat bills.
Jenni Kerteston
<p>The wildlife that call our national parks their home can be cute (like the<a href="https://www.nwf.org/Educational-Resources/Wildlife-Guide/Mammals/American-Pika" target="_blank"> American pika</a>), majestic (like the <a href="https://www.nwf.org/Educational-Resources/Wildlife-Guide/Mammals/Florida-Panther" target="_blank">Florida panther</a>), or just plain weird-looking (like the <a href="https://blog.nwf.org/2013/02/photo-of-the-day-quick-snack-for-a-roseate-spoonbill/" target="_blank">roseate spoonbill</a>). They're great subjects for amateur and professional nature photographers alike. Just remember to<a href="https://blog.nwf.org/2019/02/get-outside-and-enjoy-wildlife-from-a-distance/" target="_blank">keep your distance and be aware of your surroundings at all times</a>.</p>3. When you’re there, look for butterflies.
<img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8xOTQwNTk0OC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY1NTAwOTE2N30.Nqu6kcEu-xor7H2_iq0HdDtacBHYIk01JypbVQofeO4/img.jpg?width=980" id="6c0d1" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="95316146fbfac418ae8c76bb87324db7" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" />A pipevine swallowtail butterfly in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Jenny Pansing
<p>These beautiful creatures are particularly photogenic. Species like the <a href="https://blog.nwf.org/2016/04/monarch-butterflies-in-national-parks/" target="_blank">monarch butterfly</a> can be observed in National Parks all over the country, while other species may be localized to one region. Want to take it one step further? <a href="https://www.nwf.org/Butterfly-Heroes/Heroes" target="_blank">Be a butterfly hero</a>!</p>4. Use digital tools to engage with the natural world.
<p>A visit to the national parks is a great way to spend some time away from screens enjoying the benefits of fresh air and beautiful sights. But if your family has trouble unplugging, <a href="https://blog.nwf.org/2018/09/when-nature-and-digital-screens-click/" target="_blank">there are plenty of resources</a> that can help you use your devices to better understand the world around you, including <a href="https://earth.google.com/web/@0.24566643,-28.11246453,-15485.90139803a,25524970.08886814d,35y,0h,0t,0r/data=Ci0SKxIgMzVhNjc1YmQ0NjVjMTFlOTg0Yjg1NTMyNWRjMDk2MzQiB3ZveV90b2M" target="_blank">Google Earth</a>! <a href="https://www.nwf.org/Educational-Resources/Educator-Tools" target="_blank">Movies, magazines, games, and apps</a> offer a variety of options, too.</p>5. Can’t make it to the parks in person? Journey in your mind to these breathtaking destinations.
<img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8xOTQwNTk1NC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYxOTU0MzE3OX0.J8gF7-Sp6jGXSPWvxN_YS3yuCAxa2fbGCYYOdLzwFcE/img.jpg?width=980" id="b7248" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="dbd7fb27008ea85ce56c59083365cae8" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" />Denali National Park.
Stokes Clarke
<p>Sometimes there's not enough time or money to get to the parks in person. <a href="https://blog.nwf.org/2014/04/the-grandeur-of-our-national-parks/" target="_blank">We've compiled some incredible photos</a> from entrants to our <a href="https://www.nwf.org/Magazines/National-Wildlife/Photo-Contest" target="_blank">photo contest</a> for you to enjoy from the comfort of your home.</p>The best way to celebrate our national parks is to take care of them.
<p>From successfully advocating for the <a href="https://blog.nwf.org/2019/03/lwcf/" target="_blank">reauthorization of the Land and Water Conservation Fund</a> to <a href="https://www.nwf.org/Home/Latest-News/Press-Releases/2019/01-31-19-Sulfide-Mining" target="_blank">opposing mining plans next to Minnesota's Boundary Waters</a>, the National Wildlife Federation is a <a href="https://www.nwf.org/Our-Work/Our-Lands/Public-Lands" target="_blank">leader in protecting our public lands</a> for wildlife and future generations of Americans. </p>From Your Site Articles
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Copal Tree Lodge / Facebook
By Brian Barth
Agricultural adventure awaits you in the lower latitudes. Here are a few ideas to salivate over, from the rootsy to the ritzy.
<h3>1. <a href="https://northcountryfarms.com/" target="_blank">North Country Farms</a><strong> – Kilauea, Hawaii</strong></h3><p>This small organic farm near the famed Na Pali coast on the island of Kauai offers a single guest cottage, which rents for under $200 per night. Ensconced in tropical foliage, you'll have the option of picking your own produce and grilling local seafood on the <em>lanai</em> (that's Hawaiian for veranda).</p><h3>2. <a href="http://www.bellemontfarm.com/" target="_blank">Belle Mont Farm</a> – Basseterre, St. Kitts and Nevis</h3><p>This sprawling eco-resort, with rooms starting in the $200 to $300 range, includes 400 acres of farmland and the "world's most edible golf course." Dining options abound with multiple restaurants (mountainside, beach or 30-foot wood table out in the fields, your choice), plus a bar serving house-brand rum and a farm-fresh grocery delivery service for those booking one of the self-contained suites.</p><h3>3. <a href="https://www.kahandakanda.com/" target="_blank">Kahanda Kanda</a> – Galle Fort, Sri Lanka</h3><p>Located on a traditional tea estate, you'll dine on meals prepared from the surrounding gardens—they'll even set up a table for two under the stars—before retiring to your private mini-villa, which can be had for under $300 a night (you get your own pool in the pricier villas).</p><h3>4. <a href="https://copaltreelodge.com/" target="_blank">Copal Tree Lodge</a> – Punta Gorda, Belize</h3><p>Rooms at this 12,000-acre eco-resort start at just $125 per night and come with views of the rainforest. Your food, however, will come from the 3,000-acre organic farm on-site that produces everything from eggs and vegetables to coffee, chocolate and rum.</p><h3>5. <a href="https://haciendadesanantonio.com/" target="_blank">Hacienda San Antonio</a> – Comala, Mexico</h3><p>In the volcanic highlands of south-central Mexico lies a very pricey farm stay—rooms start at $700 in the off-season. No detail is spared in the lodgings, as well as the food, 90 percent of which comes from a nearby biodynamic farm. The hacienda has a beachside sister resort nearby, supplied by the same farm, which is even more lavish.</p><p> <em>Reposted with permission from our media associate <a href="https://modernfarmer.com/2018/12/5-places-to-visit-for-your-next-winter-escape/" target="_blank">Modern Farmer</a>.</em><em></em></p>
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Arnold Media / The Image Bank / Getty Images
This Saturday, November 17, is National Take a Hike Day. Hiking is a great way to stay healthy, reconnect with nature and remind yourself of what we're trying to protect. In honor of the day, here are the EcoWatch team's favorite hikes, and the ones at the top of our bucket lists.
<p><strong>Olivia Rosane, Freelance Reporter</strong></p><p><em>Favorite Hike: <a href="https://www.nps.gov/olym/planyourvisit/visiting-hurricane-ridge.htm" target="_blank">Hurricane Ridge</a></em></p><p>Hurricane Ridge is the most accessible mountainous area within Washington State's Olympic National Park. Several hiking trails branch off from the Visitor Center, taking you past alpine meadows, grazing deer and stunning views of the snow-capped Olympics. I hiked here with my family when we first moved to Washington and immediately fell in love with my new home.</p>
<p><em>Dream Hike:<a href="https://www.greenmountainclub.org/the-long-trail/" target="_blank"> The Long Trail</a></em></p><p>The Long Trail, the oldest long-distance hiking trail in the U.S., runs along the spine of Vermont's Green Mountains from Massachusetts to the Canadian border. Someday, I would love to take two to three weeks and walk the whole thing, immersing myself in the woods, meadows and streams of one of the greenest states.</p>
<p><strong>Irma Omerhodzic, Associate Editor</strong></p><p><em>Favorite Hike: <a href="https://www.nps.gov/cuva/the-ledges.htm" target="_blank">The Ledges </a></em></p><p>The Ledges in Cuyahoga Valley National Park in Ohio is only 1.8 miles long, but exploring the Ritchie Ledges is such a cool experience. There are petroglyphs that date back to the 1900s (no one really knows who carved them). My dog and I love taking a day trip here and escaping into nature. </p><p><em>Dream Hike: <a href="https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/arizona/cathedral-rock-trail" target="_blank">Cathedral Rock Trail</a> </em></p><p>Sedona, Arizona is a definite bucket-list trip. Sedona is said to be an energy vortex. I would love to hike the Cathedral Rock Trail in Coconino National Forest with the intention to heal at all levels. </p>
<p><strong>Chris McDermott, News Editor</strong></p><p><em>Favorite Hike: <a href="https://www.traillink.com/trail/seminole-wekiva-trail/" target="_blank">Seminole-Wekiva Trail</a></em></p><p> A rails-to-trails marvel on what once was the longest railroad in the U.S., the 14-mile Seminole-Wekiva Trail is perfect for bicycling, and even better for a slow hike on the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/painttheseminoletrail/photos/a.471575402890510/894122520635794/?type=3&theater" target="_blank">Paint the Trail</a> stretch, which is filled with inspired artwork by Jeff Sonksen.</p><p><em>Dream Hike: <a href="https://outtt.com/en/adventures/2910/fl%C3%B8ya" target="_blank">Mount Fløya, Norway</a></em></p><p>My dream hike would take at least an hour before encountering the Northern Lights. The location could be flexible, but this lookout over Tromsø in Norway could be even better than the dream.</p><p><strong>Lorraine Chow, Freelance Reporter</strong></p><p><em>Favorite Hike: <a href="https://parks.ny.gov/parks/13/details.aspx" target="_blank">Bear Mountain State Park</a></em></p><p>Bear Mountain was always the perfect day trip when I used to live in New York City. It's about an hour away by bus from Port Authority. The hike is moderately challenging and has an all-rock section. The peak, hilariously, is a parking lot, but the incredible views on the way are totally worth it.</p><p><em>Dream Hike: <a href="https://www.visitshenandoah.org/" target="_blank">Shenandoah Valley</a></em></p><p>My bucket list hike is the Appalachian Trail, but if I had to choose a stretch it would be in the Shenandoah section. It would also have to be in the fall so I can see the colors. Maybe I'll also get to see a black bear!</p>
<p><strong>Jordan Simmons, Social Media Manager</strong></p><p><em>Favorite Hike: <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g294314-Activities-c61-t219-Cusco_Cusco_Region.html" target="_blank">Pachamama</a></em></p><p>The kind-hearted local I met in the town's center of of Cusco, Peru pointed to a peak in the distance and asked if I'd like to hike to Pachamama, what he called the tallest point in Cusco. We trekked about eight hours away from civilization—passing through eucalyptus forests and drinking water from the stream. We ventured so far that our only way of finding home was to follow water.</p><p><em>Dream Hike: <a href="https://www.larutadelosconquistadores.com/history-1/" target="_blank">La Ruta de los Conquistadores</a></em></p><p>My passion to build my knowledge on Indigenous culture drives my desire to hike La Ruta de los Conquistadores (The Route of the Conquistadors) in Costa Rica. The route changes each year and is designed for mountain bikers but I fear such treacherous mountain biking, and I'm determined to hike this path, which traces routes undertaken by 16th century Spanish Conquistadors.</p>
From Your Site Articles
- The Hiker's Guide to Communing With Nature ›
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Visit Any National Park for Free This Saturday to Celebrate 25th National Public Lands Day
21 September 2018
Adventure
Muir Woods, which costs $10 for entry, will have free entry on Sept. 22. m01229 / Flickr / CC BY-NC 2.0
If you're stuck for plans this weekend, we suggest escaping your city or town for the great outdoors.
This Saturday marks the 25th National Public Lands Day, organized by the National Environmental Education Foundation (NEEF).
<p>
The annual event is known to be the nation's largest single-day volunteer effort and is one of the four days in 2018 where you can
<a href="https://www.nps.gov/planyourvisit/fee-free-parks.htm" target="_blank">visit any national park for free</a>—even at parks that normally charge an entrance fee.
</p><p>
<span></span>Additionally, if you decide to <a href="https://www.nps.gov/subjects/npscelebrates/public-lands-day.htm#CP_JUMP_5653218" target="_blank">volunteer for a work project</a> this Saturday, you will also receive a fee-free day coupon to be used on a future date, the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/subjects/npscelebrates/public-lands-day.htm" target="_blank">National Parks Service</a> (NPS) said.
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</p><div id="df425" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="438COO1576662694"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet twitter-custom-tweet" data-twitter-tweet-id="1043156396060106753" data-partner="rebelmouse"><div style="margin:1em 0">Visit national parks, forests, and monuments for free tomorrow-Saturday, Sept. 22-in honor of the 25th National Pub… https://t.co/SwI2voKbsG</div> — LandSearch (@LandSearch)<a href="https://twitter.com/landsearchapp/statuses/1043156396060106753">1537542840.0</a></blockquote></div>
<p></p><p>
<a href="https://www.neefusa.org/npld-snapshot" target="_blank">At last year occasion</a>, roughly 169,000 people rolled up their sleeves at more than 21,000 sites, generating $16.7 million in volunteer hours.
</p><p>
The volunteers planted trees, removed trash, repaired structures and habitats and more, providing much-needed help in chipping away at the national park system's
<a href="https://www.nps.gov/subjects/infrastructure/deferred-maintenance.htm" target="_blank">$11 billion</a> backlog of repairs.
</p><p>
Last year, the Interior Department moved to <a href="https://www.ecowatch.com/national-parks-entrance-fees-2559617590.html">more than double</a> the entrance fees at the busiest parks to address maintenance and other costs, but backed away after widespread <a href="https://www.ecowatch.com/national-parks-fees-2511615668.html">public backlash</a>. Ultimately, NPS <a href="https://www.nps.gov/aboutus/entrance-fee-prices.htm" target="_blank">decided</a> to increase entrance fees for the 117 parks that charge admission between $5 to $10 for annual passes.
</p><p>
Fittingly, the theme of this year's National Public Lands Day will focus on the "resilience and restoration" of our public lands.
</p><p>
"Every day, natural disasters and
<a href="https://www.ecowatch.com/tag/extreme-weather">extreme weather</a>, <a href="https://www.ecowatch.com/climate-change">human activities</a>, and a host of other factors take their toll on our public lands, threatening the health and wellbeing of the people and wildlife who depend on them," NEEF <a href="https://www.neefusa.org/npld" target="_blank">said</a> on its website. "Public land managers, volunteers, and others who steward these special places work tirelessly to restore these areas, make them more resilient to future threats, and ensure that people and wildlife continue to enjoy them for years to come."
</p><p>
<span></span>The annual event, which always falls on the fourth Saturday of September, is held in cooperation with seven federal agencies and more than 250 state, county, city, university and school partners.
</p><p>
Stuck on where to go? Visit the NPS
<a href="https://www.nps.gov/findapark/advanced-search.htm" target="_blank">website</a> where you'll have more than 400 national parks to choose from. Also check out the NEEF <a href="https://www.neefusa.org/event-locator" target="_blank">website</a> to find volunteer events near you.
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<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8xODY0NzIwNS9vcmlnaW4ucG5nIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYxOTQ3OTYzNX0.ukl2h0Sd8pJpR9NKf057d_hLvhcFqqDQk1raxL6PBNU/img.png?width=980" id="31e7a" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="ca5bfba2253c715657d7e179c1a2dab4" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image">
<small class="image-media media-photo-credit" placeholder="add photo credit...">National Parks Service</small>
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Aaron Teasdale
By Aaron Teasdale
"There's snow up here, I promise," I assure my son Jonah, as we grunt up a south-facing mountainside in Glacier National Park in July. A mountain goat cocks its head as if to say, "What kind of crazy people hike up bare mountains in ski boots?" He's not the only one to wonder what in the name of Bode Miller we're doing up here with ski gear.
<p>Our day began at Logan Pass, the high point of the park's famed Going to the Sun Road, where plows work for months to carve a byway through walls of deep snow. By July that snow has melted into a predictable patchwork, and even on the highest summits the south slopes are bare. As Jonah and I set out from the parking area on skis, tourists raise their phones to take pictures of the spectacle while children from warmer climes throw snowballs.</p>
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<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8xODMyODIxNy9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYxNjg4MjM3M30.UM3uQOKixfkNTLxyOV0sawigCnazUcKU56GyurhyHek/img.jpg?width=980" id="3624b" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="4833991c1d7570da078621357e7a6bc7" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image">
<small class="image-media media-photo-credit" placeholder="add photo credit...">Aaron Teasdale</small></p>
<p>An hour later the crowds are far behind us as our snow patches run out and we arrive at the foot of a south-facing mountainside and remove our skis. A bare-chested man with a vigorous hiking stride looks up the daunting pitch above us. Our plan to ascend it, he opines, "sounds like a lot of work."<br></p><p>Despite my confident response to Mr. Bare Chest, I'm secretly worried. There's a fine line between passing on your love of the mountains to your kids and alienating them by pushing them too far. Jonah is 15 and a high school athlete. He can handle this. I hope. </p><p>But so far he's a bit morose in that dispiriting way particular to teenagers, so I offer him the option of turning around and doing something easier in the tourist zone. To my pleasant surprise he opts for the bigger, much more challenging adventure. So we lash our skis to our packs, find one of Glacier's many informal climber's trails, and begin our climb into the world of mountain goats and summer snow.</p>
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<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8xODMyODIxOC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY0MDQwMTU4OH0.vGAl1QMfP4BxqPvzyrpfGSaAMj2neHFSwVSHuGmdepA/img.jpg?width=980" id="8a948" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="5f4363b1742023eb99c22249ae105a28" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image">
<small class="image-media media-photo-credit" placeholder="add photo credit...">Aaron Teasdale</small></p>
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<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8xODMyODIyNS9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY2NDkwMjU0OH0.MFY7ANf2AR5QHSZybgQ-u75bXGbOf0Rik28ZiMaf9eM/img.jpg?width=980" id="294eb" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="d31eb7e4770337ba3abd51e1324b829d" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image">
<small class="image-media media-photo-credit" placeholder="add photo credit...">Aaron Teasdale</small></p>
<p>Hours later we gain a knife ridge at 8,000 feet. Sharp peaks laced with waterfalls spear the sky in every direction. The northern side of the mountain drops steeply into a sheltered alpine bowl harboring a thick snowpack. "Told ya we'd get to snow!" I exclaim to Jonah—who is focused on trying to communicate telepathically with the mountain goats lounging on the snowfield.<br></p><p>Below us stretches a beautiful, wild ski run of 1,000 vertical feet. Its high alpine fastness makes it virtually unreachable in winter, but its shady northern aspect in a sheltered cirque preserves it for a fine run in July. We strap on helmets and click into our skis. The slope is steep enough that only the beginning is visible before it plummets away out of sight. </p><p>I tell Jonah to follow my line closely, as there are rock bands, small crevasses and other hazards to avoid. After I take a couple turns to test the snow, which has an amenable surface perfectly softened by the day's sun, I tell him to drop in behind me. He's on my old skis, which are a bit long, but he carves his way down the mountainside like he's been doing it all his life. Which is probably because he has. </p><p>His father is what you could call a skiing addict. Nothing mainlines joy for me like the wild poetry of gliding down snowy mountainsides, and I've tried to instill proper values in my two sons. If it snows more than six inches, abandoning school for a ski day is optional; more than 10 inches and it's mandatory. </p><p>But it wasn't until well into adulthood that I realized you needn't put skis away when winter ends. It started with May. I figured out that even by that late date, snow sticks to high mountains and provides stable glissè opportunities on steep slopes that would be too perilous in avalanche-prone mid-winter. From there, it was only a matter of time until I found myself skiing in the first days of June, when most people are gardening. But making the jump to true summer skiing took a bit longer because, well, snow is harder to find in summer.</p><p><span></span>Then a friend who's a backcountry skiing guide showed me the hidden side of Glacier's Logan Pass and began inviting me on adventures into remote places that involved fording creeks with skis on our backs and other alpine shenanigans. As you might imagine, we were always the only people back there. Which was all I needed. Wilderness exploration with glorious ski runs far from madding crowds? Sold.</p><p>Soon I was exploring the Northern Rockies' other hotbed of summer skiing, the Beartooth Mountains on the Wyoming-Montana border. I heard stories of people doing the same in the Cascades, Rocky Mountain National Park, and California's Mount Shasta. Many of them are part of an ever-growing tribe of year-round skiers—calendar-obsessed souls who've vowed to ski at least once in every month of the year. I now have multiple friends who've been doing so for over 10 years. From them I've learned of the ever-more esoteric locales they use for August and September runs, shadowy creases and perennial snowfields hanging in alpine basins. I'm not quite there yet—I'm loathe to let things like calendars and clocks dictate my agenda. But I no longer think they're crazy. Summer skiing, it seems now, is little more than a day hike in the mountains with a more elegant route back down.</p><p>Jonah is all smiles as we fill our water bladders from a snowmelt creek at the bottom of our first run. From there we have another big climb up a steep slope of loose rock. Again I'm worried it might break his effervescent spirit. But letting him choose our climbing route and lead the way imbues him with newfound energy. Although we've been clambering around for at least six hours, he moves up the rough terrain with enthusiasm and we chatter cheerfully without pause. </p><p>It's a perfect example of what happens when you bring kids into the wilderness: Removed from civilization's coddling hands, young people perk up, sensing they have only themselves and their companions to rely on. Give them responsibility and that sense of wild agency crystalizes and before you know it, you've got an adventurer on your hands. At least that's what it felt like watching Jonah scramble up that mountainside as if the mountain goats had passed on to him some secret caprine wisdom. </p><p>We high-five at the top where the world opens up again. Logan Pass sprawls below us, tourists marching in a line like ants up the snow-covered boardwalk. There's another long ski run at our feet and more tourists will stop and point and take pictures as we carve our way down it, marveling at the crazy people skiing in mid-July. I marvel, too, as I watch Jonah gleefully and even expertly soar down the mountain below me. It's then that I realize that I've been wrong to think that nothing brings me joy like skiing. I now know that nothing brings me joy like watching <em>my son</em> ski a wild mountainside—and then plunging down behind him. </p><p> <em>Reposted with permission from our media associate <a href="https://www.sierraclub.org/sierra/one-thing-better-summer-skiing" target="_blank">SIERRA Magazine</a>.</em><em></em></p>
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