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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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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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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.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMDU2NzgyNC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYxMDE4NjQ1NX0.85oS0KHMFu7FKiBupK05JZIyk_QgMEPL0Kk9812zAuM/img.jpg?width=980" id="36a07" 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.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMDU2NzgyMi9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYwMjk1MzAxNX0.58vi1ra4yMTNLkjUFxQqiIhSy4Oj6YN9v_vEhMWk5zU/img.jpg?width=980" id="1c1a2" 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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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.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8xOTQwNTkzOC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYwNzEyNzI1NX0.WwT5QsWAcjIgOOYkA2ZTBodc4hJ5Dg6aZo1kRhWECSk/img.jpg?width=980" id="10ece" 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 ›
- Saturday Is National Trails Day. This Year It's Very Different - EcoWatch ›
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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.
</p><p class="shortcode-media shortcode-media-twitter_embed">
</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>
</p>
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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>
<p class="shortcode-media shortcode-media-rebelmouse-image">
<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>
<p class="shortcode-media shortcode-media-rebelmouse-image">
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8xODMyODIyNS9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYwMTgzMDU0OH0.yx1oMPsXJqkN4ahyRfyKWWu1F00olrxC3bVOQooFqTY/img.jpg?width=980" id="13660" 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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The Perseid meteors shower shot In Aug. 12, 2016, in Inner Mongolia China. Bjdlzx / Getty Images
By Kelly Kizer Whitt
August is the time to sit back, relax and enjoy the free show overhead.
The Perseid meteor shower is one of the most prolific annual meteor showers and the only one that occurs in the summer. The Perseids can produce up to 100 meteors an hour at their peak, which is around Aug. 11/12. Skies will be nice and dark thanks to a new moon on Aug. 11, which will make it easier to see even the faintest streaks. Find a location away from trees, buildings and light pollution, and look up to catch the fast-moving meteors as they burn up upon contact with our atmosphere. These meteors come from the Great Comet of 1862, Comet 109P/Swift-Tuttle.
<p><strong>Parade of Planets </strong></p><p>A sky full of planets continues to entertain us in August. The brightest and closest planet, Venus, drops low in the west and sets not long after sunset. Jupiter trails behind Venus in the southwest, setting four hours after sunset at the beginning of the month and disappearing more quickly by the end. Venus mingles with the moon on Aug. 13 and 14, and Jupiter gets a visit from the moon on Aug. 16 and 17.</p><p>Saturn is low in the south, floating before the stars of the Milky Way. The Ringed Planet lies in Sagittarius, close to some stunning star clusters and nebulae. The moon will come into the picture on Aug. 20, brightening the Milky Way environs, so try a couple days before or after this date if you want to hunt down deep-sky delights near Saturn.</p><p>Mars reached opposition in late July, one of its closest approaches to Earth in a number of years. The bright, reddish-orange color of the planet should still be unmistakable in the south-southeast. A planet-wide dust storm has been extinguishing our view of features of the Red Planet, but during calmer weather it's possible to spy white wisps of polar caps and clouds on the Martian planet through backyard telescopes. The moon passes Mars on Aug. 22 and 23, and it hits full phase on Aug. 26 at 4:56 a.m. PDT. August's full moon is sometimes called the Sturgeon Moon.</p><p><strong>Double Transit on Jupiter</strong></p><p>Get out your telescope or binoculars on Aug. 23 to catch the double shadow transit on Jupiter. The timing of the event will depend on your location, so start looking after it gets dark to see if the eclipse is already in progress or about to begin. The dark shadows of Io and Europa will pass in front of Jupiter over the course of more than an hour. The first shadow to enter onto Jupiter is Io's, while the one that tags behind is Europa's. Look for the four Galilean moons arrayed out to one side of the planet. Callisto is farthest away with Ganymede near it. Close in to Jupiter are Europa and then Io, which is the closest of all. If you are able to watch early enough, you'll get to see Europa and then Io appear off the limb of the planet after they have passed in front of Jupiter.</p><p>A partial solar eclipse is on tap for August, but it can only be seen from northern Asia and Europe. The next eclipse that will be visible to viewers in the U.S. is a total lunar eclipse in January.</p><p><strong>Chance at a Comet</strong></p><p>It's 4 a.m. in early August and you can't sleep. What to do? Grab a pair of binoculars, go outside before the sun rises, and find the northeastern horizon. Look to see if the constellation Gemini has emerged above the horizon yet (actual time of rising depends on your location). If you aren't familiar with Gemini and its bright "twin" stars, look for the better-known constellation of Orion rising in the east and then scan the horizon to the left (north) until you see the bright pair of stars, one above the other. From August 4 to 6, a brightening comet known as C/2017 S3 PanSTARRS will be traveling between the top star, Castor, to the bottom star, Pollux. If the comet increases in brightness as predicted, you won't even need the binoculars to see it. </p><p>The comet will stay close to the horizon, reaching perihelion on Aug. 15, when it should be at its brightest. However, a surprise outburst in July, which gave it a quick brightening and greenish hue, may have knocked the stuffing out of its August showing. Unfortunately, mid-August is also when the comet is closest to the horizon and the rising sun, which might wash out your view. But if you're awake, it's worth taking a look. Perhaps it will have another surge as it gets to within just .21 AU from the sun, a final hurrah, before it most likely disintegrates.</p><p> <em>Reposted with permission from our media associate <a href="https://www.sierraclub.org/sierra/august-astronomical-highlights-summer-s-best-meteor-shower" target="_blank">SIERRA Magazine</a>.</em><em></em></p>
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Jason Mark
By Jason Mark
Normally, a writer writes to reach an audience. But what I'm about to tell you, I want you to keep just between us, OK? Whatever you do, don't email this article to your friends, don't share it on Facebook, and please don't post it on Twitter. Because I'm going to let you in on one of the San Francisco Bay Area's best-kept backpacking secrets, and I want to keep it that way.
<p>The place I'm going to tell you about is big enough, and still wild enough, to accommodate a week-long backpacking trip. It's a landscape that's textbook California savanna—a terrain of mammoth black oak and valley oak that, in the springtime, explodes into wildflower fireworks. And—best of all—it's a place that you can get to in a relatively painless two-hour drive from San Francisco or Oakland. </p><p>I'm talking about Henry Coe State Park, the largest state park in Northern California. At 88,000 acres, it's about 25 percent larger than Point Reyes National Seashore, but it hosts a tiny fraction of the estimated 2.5 million visitors who travel to the national seashore every year. It's also stupid-close to the mish-mash of freeway mazes and sprawl that make up most of the Bay Area. As the crow flies, the park is a scant 35 miles from the Apple headquarters in Cupertino. </p><p>All of which makes Henry Coe the perfect escape. Once you get there, you'll feel far away—even if you're still close to home.</p><p class="shortcode-media shortcode-media-rebelmouse-image">
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8xODIyMTI5NC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYzODIxOTM4MH0.7nyxfIVUVqHR_hATGp-Nz2u2tInUiVwNc-_TCx7OrZo/img.jpg?width=980" id="40fa3" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="9ab24715324b0cef0a9fb8ae9c41aec3" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image">
<small class="image-media media-photo-credit" placeholder="add photo credit...">Jason Mark</small></p><p class="shortcode-media shortcode-media-rebelmouse-image">
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<small class="image-media media-photo-credit" placeholder="add photo credit...">Jason Mark</small></p><p>I should say that if you're the kind of backpacker who hungers for epic alpine vistas or the sharp beauty of the desert, you may at first be disappointed by Henry Coe. There's little grandeur there. No big peaks or stunning buttes, no rough rivers or knock-you-on-your-ass tall trees. It's a place of subtle charms. With its broad sweeps of tall grass and swooning oak trees, Henry Coe feels like it's ripped from a John Steinbeck novel, the epitome of Old California. The place is merely pretty—but after weeks stuck in the city or the 'burbs, pretty is more than enough.<br></p><p>At a good half mile above sea level, this northernmost outpost of the Diablo Range has a lushness unusual for Californian savanna. Gray pines are scattered among all of the oak trees. There are ponderosa, including a few giants that seem like they've been transplanted from the kneecaps of the Sierra Nevada. Coyote Creek, one of the park's main arteries, manages to flow even through the dusty days of August and September. </p><p>Then there are the flowers—my God, the flowers. My field guide, <em>Wildflowers of Henry Coe State Park</em>, features 67 species. If you time your visit for late winter or spring, you'll be gobsmacked by the chaos of colors: blue lupine, pink and red paintbursh, football field lengths of orange poppy, crimson columbine, yellow fiddlenecks arching their heads above the grasses like herds of giraffe. There's purple everywhere: purple owl's clover, purple shooting stars (two different types), purple clarkia. </p><p>You've got a good chance of seeing some wildlife. Henry Coe's usual critters are common: deer and coyotes, flocks of turkeys zigzagging through the understory. If you behave yourself (that is, if you're practiced at being still) you might catch something more elusive. Once, I spotted a red fox, jumping through the beam of my head lamp. On another trip, I came across a bobcat, right in the middle of the trail. During a New Year's solo trip, I saw a feral hog above Coit Lake. It was the size and color of a wine barrel, tearing up a hillside with the speed of an NFL linebacker. </p><p>If you really want to play with solitude, Henry Coe will demand some work. Anything within a day's hike of the visitor center at Coe Ranch is reliably busy with day-trippers, crews of college backpackers, and mountain bikers a'shredding. (Many of the park's trails are old ranch roads, broad and with a brutal grade, which makes them popular with the two-wheelers.) But if you go farther afield, it gets lonely quick enough. Few folks make it out to the Orestimba Wilderness, a 22,000-acre state wilderness punctuated by the impressive chert outcropping of the "Rooster Comb," where miles-long groves of blue oak cast their candelabra arms skyward. I doubt more than a dozen people a year make it to the old corral below Bear Spring. </p><p>Did I mention that if you live in the Bay Area, Henry Coe is ridiculously easy to get to? The proximity is the point. Often as not, the backyard beats the bucket list destination. I've backpacked through Henry Coe nearly 10 times, and its lack of pretension has grown on me. At this point, it seems like an old friend.</p><p>I'd encourage you to start planning your route. Just remember: You didn't hear this from me. </p><p><strong>Follow in the Writer's Footsteps </strong></p><p><strong>Where:</strong> <a href="https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=561" target="_blank">Henry Coe State Park</a>. Take California Highway 101 to the city of Morgan Hill and exit at East Dunne Avenue. Follow Dunne Avenue eastward, and follow the park signs up into the hills. </p><p><strong>Best Time to Visit:</strong> Spring is the most popular season for visiting Henry Coe, on account of the explosions of wildflowers. If you want to beat the crowds, consider visiting in winter, when the grasses are typically green and lush and the temperatures still relatively mild. The park can be punishingly hot and dry in the summer, and water difficult to come by. </p><p><strong>Backcountry Hack:</strong> Each spring, the park hosts what it calls "Backcountry Wilderness Weekend," when park staff and volunteers from the <a href="http://coepark.net/pineridgeassociation/" target="_blank">Pine Ridge Association</a> organize a shuttle system along the old ranching roads to establish a temporary trailhead on the east side of the park, affording hikers and equestrians easy access to the Orestimba Wilderness. Downside: The typically quite-far reaches of the park become packed with people. Upside: It's a good way for families to get to places like the Rooster Comb, which requires at least two days of hard trekking to reach. </p><p><strong>Bring Your Fishing Pole:</strong> If you're an angler, consider bringing your pole. There's good fishing—bass, crappie and sunfish—at Coit Lake and Mississippi Lake. But both lakes are fringed with thick stands of tule reeds, so getting to a good place to cast requires some bushwhacking.</p><p><strong>Pro-tip—Brave the Narrows: </strong>Many backpackers or hikers seeking to get from the park headquarters to the eastern side of the park will avoid the narrow gulch of Coyote Creek marked on the map as "The Narrows" and will instead take the punishing ranching roads up and over the ridges. But if you're a half-experienced trekker, you should brave the Narrows (unless it's after a big rain). Between Poverty Flat Campground and China Hole you'll be rewarded with a sycamore-strung single-track free of mountain bikers. In the spring, the pools between China Hole and Los Cruceros are often filled with various species of duck. </p><p><strong>More Information:</strong> The Pine Ridge Association <a href="http://coepark.net/pineridgeassociation/" target="_blank">website</a> offers more detailed visitor information than the official park site.</p><p><span></span> <em>Reposted with permission from our media associate <a href="https://www.sierraclub.org/sierra/henry-coe-state-park-bay-area-s-best-kept-backpacking-secret" target="_blank">SIERRA Magazine</a>.</em></p>
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