GUIDE TO CARLSBAD CAVERNS NATIONAL PARK

One of the most spectacular caves in the world, and the nation's deepest limestone cave yet discovered. Visitors arrive by way of U.S. Highway 62-180 from either Carlsbad, New Mexico (23 miles to the northeast) or El Paso, Texas (150 miles to the west). A scenic 7-mile (11.3 km) entrance road leads from the park gate at Whites City to the visitor center and cavern entrance. Rental cars and taxi service are available from the airport at Carlsbad.

Above Ground
The park's above-ground trail system includes a short nature trail and, for experienced hikers, more than 50 miles of primitive backcountry trails. Trailheads are located along each of the park roads.

Permit Information

Free backcountry permits are available at the visitor center.

Directions
The above-ground region of Carlsbad Caverns National Park encompasses all of the park's surface terrain.

Information Center
The information center is located at the cavern entrance off US 62.

Underground

Visitors wishing to explore Carlsbad Caverns may select from 3 main tour options depending on their time, interest, and physical ability. Two of these options follow self-guiding routes; the third is a ranger-guided tour.

Permit Information

Tickets are required for entry to the caverns.

Directions
Begin your explorations at the visitor center off US 62.

Information Center
The Carlsbad Cavern Visitor Center is located at the cavern entrance off US 62.

FIRST PAGE

GUIDE TO CAPITOL REEF NATIONAL PARK

Operating Hours
Open year-round.

Visitation
Highest April - June, September and October; lowest in January.

Permits
Permits are required for overnight stays in the backcountry. They can be obtained at the park visitor center.

Visitors Center and Programs
Visitor Center: The visitor center is open daily (except Christmas Day) from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with extended hours during the summer season. It is located along Utah Hwy 24 and features a slide show and many exhibits.

Programs: There are a variety of summer walks, talks, and evening campfire programs. Kids have the opportunity to become a Junior Ranger and to explore the park with a Family Fun Pack.

Food Supplies and Concessions
Food/Supplies: Food is not available inside the park. There are convenience marts and grocery stores in Torrey, Bicknell, and Loa, west of the visitor center on Hwy 24.

Concesssions: There is a bookstore in the visitor center.

Visitor Impact

Additional Information

There is no lodging available within the park.

There are several year-round family campgrounds in Capitol Reef National Park, all of which are available on a first-come, first-served basis and only one of which is developed. The 2 primitive campgrounds have pit toilets, fire grates, and picnic tables (but no water).There is a group campground for which reservations are required; fee is $3 per person per night, with a minimum charge of $50.

Plan for hot summers, cold winters, and mild spring and fall conditions. Capitol Reef National Park has an arid climate, with precipitation averaging just 7.2 inches annually at the visitor center weather station.Call (435)425-3791 for a recorded message on current weather conditions

FIRST PAGE

GUIDE TO CANYONLANDS NATIONAL PARK

Island in the Sky District
Bordered by the Green River on the west and the Colorado River on the east, the Island provides easy access to overlooks with spectacular views of the canyons and other geological formations. Hiking trails and four-wheel-drive roads access backcountry areas for day or overnight trips.

Permit Information
Backpacking $10; Backcountry Vehicle $25; Flat Water $10; Cataract Canyon $25. Permits are required for all overnight stays and are available at the Island in the Sky Visitor Center just inside the park's north entrance, or call (435)259-4351.

Directions
Take US Hwy 191 to Utah Hwy 313 (10 mi north of Moab or 22 mi south of I-70) then drive southwest for 22 miles.

Information Center
The Island in the Sky Visitor Center is roughly 40 minutes from Moab on 313. It is open 8 am to 4:30 pm daily (except some winter holidays) with extended hours spring through fall. Bottled water is sold here and nowhere else in the district.

Maze District
Due to the district's remoteness and the difficulty of its roads and trails, the Maze is the least accessible district of Canyonlands, requiring more time as well as a greater degree of self-sufficiency to visit. Trips usually last a minimum of three days, and the area can easily absorb a week-long trip.

Maze visitors should be skilled in the use of topographic maps and, if traveling by vehicle, in technical four-wheel driving. The Orange Cliffs Unit of Glen Canyon National Recreation Area shares Canyonlands National Park's western boundary and is administered under the same backcountry management plan and reservation system. While some regulations differ, the information here should assist Orange Cliffs visitors in planning their trips to this area.

Permit Information
Backpacking $10; Backcountry Vehicle $25; Flat Water $10; Cataract Canyon $25. Permits are required for all overnight stays and are available at the Needles Visitor Center or by calling (435)259-4351 if entering from Hans Flat.

Directions
To Hans Flat: The signed turnoff to the Maze District lies on the east side of Utah Highway 24, about 21 miles north of Hanksville, and 24.75 miles south of the Interstate 70/Utah Highway 24 junction west of Green River. Alternately, you may hike in from

Information Center
Visitor Center: There is no visitor center, but there is a ranger station at Hans Flat.

Needles District
The Needles District forms the southeast corner of Canyonlands and is the most popular backpacking destination in the park. The dominant formations are the needles themselves, and the district's extensive trail system provides many opportunities for long day hikes and overnight trips. Foot trails and four-wheel-drive roads lead to such features as Tower Ruin, the Confluence Overlook, Elephant Hill, and Chesler Park.

Permit Information
Backpacking $10; Backcountry Vehicle $25; Flat Water $10; Cataract Canyon $25. Permits are required for all overnight stays and are available at the Needles Visitor Center just inside the Needles park entrance, or by calling (435)259-4351.

Directions
From U.S. Highway 191, 40 miles south of Moab or 14 miles north of Monticello, take Utah Highway 211 roughly 35 miles west. Highway 211 ends in the Needles and is the only paved road leading into and out of the district.

Information Center
The Needles Visitor Center is located on Utah Highway 211 just inside the park. It is open 8 am to 4:30 pm daily (except some winter holidays) with extended hours March through October. Water is available at the visitor centers year-round.

Operating Hours
Open year-round.

Visitation
Highest in spring and fall.

Permits
Permits are required for all overnight stays in the backcountry. Permits are also required for day use by vehicles, horses, and bikes in Salt Creek/Horse and Lavender Canyons in the Needles District. All permits may be reserved in advance.

Visitors Center and Programs
Visitor Center: The visitor centers at the Island in the Sky and Needles Districts are open daily from 8 am to 4:30 pm, with extended hours during spring and fall; they are closed on some federal holidays. There are exhibits at both visitor centers.

Programs: Evening programs, overlook talks, and other programs are offered spring through fall. Check with the visitor centers for current schedules. A Junior Ranger Program is available for children ages 6-12.

Food Supplies and Concessions
Food/Supplies: There are no services within Canyonlands NP. Gas, food, and other items are available in nearby towns.

Concessions: The visitor centers have sales areas for books, maps, and other publications. The Maze District Ranger Station at Hans Flat has a small sales area.

Visitor Impact
All backcountry travelers should be mindful of their impact on the land and follow "Leave No Trace" principles. Cryptobiotic soil crust is a critical component of the high desert ecosystem and is common in Canyonlands. Crusts are easily damaged, so walk on marked trails or on other durable surfaces such as rock or in arroyos. Keep bikes, horses, and vehicles on designated roads at all times.

Additional Information
The Needles District offers a remote backcountry experience that requires hiking or four-wheel driving to see the area's attractions. The Maze is an entirely backcountry district that requires considerably more time and technical four-wheel driving to visit. Horseshoe Canyon, a detached park unit northeast of the Maze, is managed for non-motorized day use only. The Rivers offer another way to experience this region, with trips generally involving two or more days of boating. There are no roads that directly link these districts.

FIRST PAGE

GUIDE TO BALI ISLAND INDONESIA

Bali Weather Bali weather remains moderately warm throughout the year receiving ample amounts of rain and sunshine. Days and nights are of uniform length. The mountainous regions of Ubud remains cloudy, beach areas of southern Bali are sunny and ideal for exploring the coral reefs under water.

Bali Accommodation
Bali Travel Guide also gives information about Bali accommodation for the convenience of visiting guests. All kinds of hotels, resorts and tourist lodges are available here within reasonable budget. There are five star resorts facilitated with updated amenities as well as budget accommodations giving homely comfort.

Bali Tourism
The varied topography of the country carved by volcanic eruptions and sea turned it into a tropical paradise. Bali Tourism has flourished considerably in the past years. Stately architecture, scenic splendor and unique cultural heritage attract thousands of tourists every year.

Bali Tourist Attractions
Bali tourist attractions such as the ancient temple of Gunnung Kawi, Pura Besakih, Uluwatu Temple highlight the religious beliefs of Balinese people. Kuta Bay, Gunnung Batur and the capital city of Denpasar are also one of traveling destination.

How to Get There
Bali, one of the provinces of Indonesia, is located between Java and Lombok. Bali is one of the islands known as Lesser Sunda Islands. Bali is perfect for a coastal hangout. The province is spotted with number of lovely sea beaches. Whether you are planning a pleasure trip after a long and hectic urban life to revitalize yourself, this is an ideal place to rest in the serene lap of nature. With its unspoiled nature, tradition, culture and inhabitants the, Bali is an ideal seaport and holiday resort. Information about Bali How to Get There is one of the most important elements a tourist needs to collect before starting his journey in this lovely haven. Getting to Bali or Travel to Bali is not at all inconvenient for tourist.

By Plane: Bali is well connected with rest of the part of the world by air. The tourist can take a flight to the Ngurah Rai international airport or the Denpasar Airport which is located in Denpasar, the capital of Bali. You will get flight from this airport for all the major cities of Indonesia, Asia and Australia.

By Bus: Getting to Bali by bus is a convenient and cheap way of reaching the city. All the areas of the city are easily accessible by bus service. There is Bali Bus Service from Java and Lombok. Bus service is available for airport also.

By Taxi: Travel in Bali in Indonesia is very convenient. One can get around the city by taxi at a slightly higher rate than what the buses charge. Bali Taxi Service are available for transfer from airport.

By Sea: Getting to Bali by Ferry is a convenient and efficient and a fast way of transport. Bali Ferry Service is available from Gilimanuk to Ketapang.
Bali Traveling Guide gives you detailed online information on Transportation in Bali or Bali How to Get There.

Things to Do in Bali
Come and explore the beautiful island of Bali in Indonesia shrouded in profound mystery and enigma and dotted with eternally enchanting panoramic landscapes and maiden forests. It is the dream holiday destination for one and all, whether they love the sea or the mountains, tranquil surroundings or stirring nightclubs. It is the ideal place for honeymooners to stay, especially if they want to make lifetime memories of their romance in the quaint seaside resorts of Bali. At Bali, you can try a variety of Things to Do in Bali. There is a fantabulous choice of Things to Do in Bali pertaining to diverse penchants of the multifarious visitors who come here. Keep reading to know more about the Things to Do in Bali.

Whether you want to go for Shopping in Bali or to enjoy the Nightlife in Bali and other forms of Entertainment in Bali, the options are limitless. For fine dining experience you do not need to ponder much about What / Where to Eat in Bali as there are a number of restaurants in Bali.
In Bali, Things To Do range from adventure activities to leisure and recreation activities and sightseeing. Some popular Tourist Activities in Bali in Indonesia include taking cooking lessons, paragliding, playing golf, visiting places of interest, playing tennis, rafting, surfing, AquaMarine Diving, going on Sea Safari Cruises, fishing and so on.

Those who are more inclined towards arts and crafts of a place can enjoy traditional Balinese dance and music. While shopping, do not miss an eye-catching array of paintings, sculptures, artifacts and batik to 5take back home. Bali Travel Guide offers you all the information you need to make the most of your trip to Bali.

FIRST PAGE

GUIDE TO BRYCE CANYON NATIONAL PARK

Bryce Canyon
The Bryce Canyon region is home to Sunrise, Sunset, Inspiration, and Bryce Points which ring Bryce Amphitheater, the largest natural amphitheater in the park. The Queen's Garden Trail begins at Sunrise Point. From Sunset Point, you can hike to Thor's Hammer and Wall Street. Inspiration Point offers the best view of the Silent City. The Under-the-Rim Trail begins at Bryce Point. Distant panoramas from each point feature the Black Mountains in the northeast and Navajo Mountain in the south.

Permit Information
A $5 permit is required for overnight backcountry camping. Permits must be obtained in person and are issued at the park visitor center from 8:00 a.m. until two hours before sunset. No reservations are accepted.

Directions
From Escalante, drive north on Hwy 12 until you reach the park. From Antimony, drive west on Hwy 63 until you reach Hwy 12. Then head south on 12 and head into the park.

Information Center
The park visitor center is located on Hwy 63, inside the park near the Sunrise Point turnout.

Rainbow Point
The Rainbow Point region offers expansive views of southern Utah. On most days you can see Navajo Mountain and the Kaibab Plateau 90 miles away in Arizona. On the clearest days the view extends into New Mexico. The foreground is awash in the colors of long-eroded slopes and remnant hoodoos formations.

Permit Information
A $5 permit is required for overnight backcountry camping. Permits must be obtained in person and are issued at the park visitor center from 8:00 a.m. until two hours before sunset. No reservations are accepted.

Directions
From Escalante, drive north on Hwy 12 until you reach the park. Then drive to the southern end of the park at Rainbow Point. From Antimony, drive west on Hwy 63 until you reach Hwy 12. Then head south on 12 and head into the southern end of the park.

Information Center
The visitor center is located in the Bryce Canyon Region near Sunrise Point.

Operating Hours
Open year-round. There may be temporary road closures in winter.

Visitation
Highest June - Sep., lowest Dec. - Feb..

Permits
A $5 permit is required for overnight backcountry camping. Permits must be obtained in person and are issued at the park visitor center from 8:00 a.m. until two hours before sunset. No reservations are accepted.

Visitors Center and Programs
Visitor Center: The park visitor center is open year-round. A 10-minute slide program, exhibits, restrooms, information, and backcountry permits are available.

Programs: Park rangers and volunteers conduct many interpretive activities, including hikes, walks, geology talks and evening slide programs, from late spring through early fall. The Junior Ranger Program offers children ages 12 and under the opportunity to learn more about the park.

Food Supplies and Concessions
Food/Supplies: A concessionaire operates a dining room in the Bryce Canyon Lodge and a general store at Sunrise Point. Groceries, souvenirs, camping supplies, quick meals, restrooms, coin-operated showers and laundry facilities are available at the store from April - October. Private stores in the immediate area are open all year for food, supplies and other services.

Concessions: In spring, summer, and fall, private wranglers lead horseback rides into Bryce Amphitheater. Amfac Parks and Resorts, Inc. also operates a gift shop in the lodge.

Visitor Impact
Use only designated trails in all heavily congested areas to protect park resources. Respect all wildlife. Do not feed wildlife. Autopsies have revealed that deer eat food wrappers which block their digestive systems and cause starvation.

Summer days are pleasant and nights are cool. July is the warmest month, with daytime highs of 83 degrees and nighttime lows of 47. Mid to late summer, rain comes as afternoon thundershowers. Spring and fall weather is highly variable. The cold of the winter days is offset by the bright, high-altitude sun and dry climate. Winter nights are sub-freezing, sometimes as low as 30 degrees below zero. March is the snowiest month. The area can have snowstorms from Oct.-April. Annual snowfall averages 95 inches. The high altitude sun can burn in any season.

FIRST PAGE

GUIDE TO BLACK CANYON OF THE GUNNISON NATIONAL PARK

The canyon offers opportunities for spectacular drive-up viewing, short walks to many canyon overlooks, hiking trails and routes, wildlife viewing, birding, camping, picnicking, photography, fishing (physically demanding access), bouldering, inner-canyon hiking and climbing.

Black Canyon
Carved into the Precambrian rocks from which it gets its name, Black Canyon divides the Green Mountains from Bostwick Park.

Gunnison River
Over thousands of years,the gentle meanderings of the Gunnison River have scarred the land, ceating the 2,000- foot Black Canyon.

Uncompahgre Valley
From the rim of the Vernal Mesa, enjoy sweeping panoramic views of the Uncompahgre Valley stretching out endlessly to the south.

The park is located approximately 250 miles SW of Denver. South Rim: East of Montrose on U.S. Hwy 50, 8 miles; north on CO Hwy 347, then 6 miles to park entrance. North Rim: CO Hwy 92 to Crawford, follow signs to North Rim Road, North Rim Road (unpaved) to park, 11 miles (North Rim Road closed in winter).

There is transportation to Montrose, Gunnison, and Grand Junction by bus. There is transportation by train to Grand Junction. Within the park there is no public transportation available; car rentals are available at airports.

Operating Hours
Open year-round. Limited road access in winter.

Visitation
Highest between Memorial Day and Labor Day.

Permits
Backcountry permits (free) are required for all inner-canyon travel; the routes to the river, for kayaking and for bouldering and rock climbing.

Visitors Center and Programs
Visitor Center: South Rim Visitor Center is staffed and open daily year-round, except winter Federal holidays. For general information, call the South Rim Visitor Center at (970) 249-1914 ext 23. North Rim Ranger Station is open intermittently during the summer, closed in winter.

Programs: Ranger conducted walks and evening programs are offered daily in the summer. Winter treks, moonlight ski tours and snowshoe hikes are offered on winter weekends. Call for reservations.

Food Supplies and Concessions
Food/Supplies: South Rim: The Rim House (coffee shop and gifts), at Pulpit Rock, is open daily mid May to late September.

Concessions: There is a book sales outlet in the South Rim Visitor Center operated by Southwest Parks and Monuments Association, a nonprofit organization.

Visitor Impact

Additional Information
When snow closes the South Rim Road, the NPS plows to the South Rim visitor center only, to allow cross-country skiing activity. Previously closed in winter, the visitor center is now open all year.

Lodging is not available within the park itself, but accommodations can be found in nearby towns.

Camping is first-come, first-served. No reservations are accepted. South Rim has 102 sites (rarely full) and water is available. North Rim has 13 sites (occasionally full) and water is available. There is a $10/night camping fee. Camping in the inner canyon requires a permit but is free of charge.

Weather can vary greatly between the canyon rim and canyon floor. Summer daytime temperatures range between 60 to 100F (15 to 38C), nights 30 to 50F (-1 to 10C) Winter daytime temperatures range between 20 to 40F (-6 to 4C), nights -10 to 20F (-23 to -6C) Precipitation is minimal, brief afternoon thunderstorms can occur during the summer. Layered clothing appropriate for the season is recommended.

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HISTORY OF BLACK CANYON

GUIDE TO BISCAYNE NATIONAL PARK

Operating Hours

Open year-round.

Visitation
Highest December to April and July to September.

Permits
Backcountry camping not permitted.

Visitors Center and Programs
Visitor Center: The Dante Fascell Visitor Center is open 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily, and offers a video orientation to the park, museum exhibits, book sales, and information and assistance. Convoy Point visitor center is open 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. daily; Convoy Point is the only place in the park which is accessible by car.

Programs: Tour boat trips and dive and snorkel trips are offered daily by the park's concessioner. For reservations, call (305) 230-1100.

Food Supplies and Concessions
Food/Supplies: Food, gas and supplies are available at stores in Homestead and Florida City.

Concessions: Glass bottom boat, snorkel, and scuba trip reservations may be made by calling Biscayne National Underwater Park, Inc., at (305) 230-1100. Canoe rentals for those wishing to explore the mangrove shoreline are also available.

Visitor Impact

Additional Information
Biscayne National Park is 95% water. To see the park, one must get in a boat. Convoy Point is the only place in the park which is accessible by car.

There is no lodging available within the park. Lodging is available in Homestead and Florida City.

There is no camping on the park's mainland. Camping is offered in 2 designated campgrounds; one on Boca Chita Key and one on Elliott Key. Access to these campgrounds is by private boat or the concessioner's occasional service.

Biscayne has a subtropical climate. It is generally hot and humid in the summer with brief afternoon thunder showers. Winters are mild and dry. Wear hats and sunglasses, and use sunscreen.

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HISTORY OF BISCAYNE

GUIDE TO THE RIO GRAND RIVER BASIN (BIG BEND NATIONAL PARK)

The Rio Grand River Basin

The 118 river miles that form the southern park boundary include the spectacular canyons of Santa Elena, Mariscal, and Boquillas. The Rio Grande, meandering through this portion of the Chihuahuan Desert, has cut deep canyons with nearly vertical walls through three uplifts comprised primarily of limestone. Throughout the open desert areas, the highly productive Rio Grande riparian zone includes various plant and animal species and significant cultural resources. These riparian corridors extend into the desert along creeks and arroyos.

Permit Information
Free permits are required for overnight stays in the backcountry, and can be obtained at the park visitor centers. You must camp at least 1/4 mile from any water source.

Directions
The Rio Grande constitutes the southern border of the park. Entrances include Rio Grande Village (Boquillas Del Carmen, Mexico) in the east and Castolon (Santa Elena, Mexico) in the west.

Information Center
There is a visitor center in Rio Grande Village, in the southeast corner of the park.

GUIDE TO THE CHIHUAHUAN DESERT (BIG BEND NATIONAL PARK)

The Chihuahuan Desert

The Chihuahuan Desert covers about 80% of the park, surrounding the Chisos Mountains like a desert ocean. Trails range from short, easy nature trails to multi-day treks marked only by rock piles, if at all. The remote desert routes provide a wonderful challenge for experienced backpackers. Silence and solitude are key resources protected here, as there are few other places where people can escape civilization so completely; often, the only sounds you hear are the wind and your own breathing.

Bare rocky ground and sparse vegetation are well-known hallmarks of the desert, but the observant hiker will find plenty of life here. Look for termite nests built up along the stems of plants, white exoskeletons of millipedes long dead, piles of animal droppings, and tunnels dug into the soil by rodents and reptiles. Bird life is plentiful in the desert, especially in the morning; look for nests hidden in yuccas, cacti, and other prickly vegetation. Hikers in the spring will find wildflowers adding their colorful blooms to the desert landscape. Bluebonnets, paintbrushes, bicolored mustard, desert bailey, yucca, ocotillo, and various types of cactus are some of the more obvious plants found blooming during the spring.

Permit Information
Free Zone Camping permits are available for the desert. The park is divided into a number of zones ranging from areas along popular trails to extremely isolated areas.

Directions
The desert covers the majority of the park, with the exception of the Chisos Mountains and the Rio Grande river basin.

Information Center
The Persimmon Gap Visitor Center is at the northern entrance to the park, and the Panther Junction Visitor Center is centrally located near the intersection of Highways 385 and 118.

GUIDE TO THE CHISOS MOUNTAINS (BIG BEND NATIONAL PARK)

The Chisos Mountains
If the Rio Grande is the linear oasis of the Big Bend country, then the Chisos Mountains are its green island in the desert sea. The combination of river and mountains draws a number of creatures not found elsewhere in desert areas, including several species of animals, birds, and plants that are quite rare, even unique, due to these mountains' isolation.

Average rainfall at the Basin, in the Chisos Mountains, is twice that at Rio Grande Village in the oasis along the river. When approaching the mountains from Green Gulch, you pass grasslands punctuated by century plants and sotol, but soon notice green leafy shrubs. Then the bushes get taller, with evergreen sumac, mountain mahogany, Texas madrone, and common beebrush. At an elevation of 4,500 feet the first tall trees begin to appear, and higher up in the drainage you will encounter well-forested areas.

Permit Information
Free permits are required for overnight stays in the backcountry. They allow backpackers to choose from a number of designated backcountry sites along the trails of the High Chisos.

Directions
Located in the center of the park, the Chisos Mountains can be reached from Highways 385, 118, or the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive.

Information Center
The Chisos Basin Visitor Center is located at the end of the Green Gulch road.

GUIDE TO BIG BEND NATIONAL PARK

Operating Hours
Open year-round.

Visitation
Highest in Mar.-Apr., spring break, Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas.

Permits
Free backcountry permits are required. They can be obtained in person at the park visitor center up to 24 hrs. in advance of the trip and are valid for up to 14 consecutive nights in the backcountry. For special use permits call (915)477-2251.

Visitors Center and Programs
Visitor Center: There are 4 visitor centers, located at Persimmon Gap, Panther Junction, Chisos Basin, and Rio Grande Village. There is a visitor contact station at Castolon. Panther Junction and Chisos Basin are open year-round. Persimmon Gap is open most of the year. Rio Grande Village is open from November to April. All visitor centers provide information, backcountry permits, and some exhibits.

Programs: Nature walks, workshops, and evening slide programs are offered year-round. Several programs per day are offered November through April, more than during the hot summer months.

Food Supplies and Concessions
Food/Supplies: Limited groceries are available near all campgrounds. Gas is available at Panther Junction (park headquarters) and Rio Grande Village. Showers and laundry facilities are available only at Rio Grande Village. There is a restaurant in the Chisos Basin.

Concessions: Commercial float trips on the Rio Grande are available through outfitters just outside the park. The Big Bend Natural History Association operates bookstores in all four visitor centers.

Visitor Impact

Additional Information
The park is very large and remote. Remember that you will be at least 100 miles from a bank, hospital, pharmacy, or supermarket!

The park is crowded during spring break, at which time all campsites and lodgings may be full. The nearest campsite with space available may be 25 miles away. The nearest available lodging during spring break may be 100 miles away.

The Chisos Mountain Lodge is located within the park. There are additional lodgings a moderate distance outside the park. Note that the park is crowded during spring break, at which time the nearest lodging vacancy may be 100 miles away.


Chisos Mountain Lodge

Located in the Chisos Basin at 5400 ft. elevation, the lodge has 72 rooms, a gift shop and dining room, and is open all year.

There are 3 campgrounds within the park. Campsite occupancy is limited to eight people and two vehicles, or one RV plus one vehicle. All campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis only.With a backcountry permit you may camp at one of the numerous backcountry roadside campsites throughout the park. Most require a high clearance or 4WD vehicle. Backcountry permits also allow for open zone camping in some desert areas, and campsites in the high Chisos Mountains are available.

Fall and spring are usually warm and pleasant. Summers are hot, although temperatures vary greatly between the desert floor and the Chisos Mountains. May and June are the hottest months. Afternoon and evening rains often cool the desert from July to October.

Winters are generally mild, although periods of cold weather (including light snow) are possible. Winter visitors must prepare for a variety of conditions.

One gallon of water per person per day is essential.


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HISTORY OF BIG BEND NATIONAL PARK

GUIDE TO BADLANDS NATIONAL PARK

North Unit

In the North Unit, the 64,250 acre Sage Creek Wilderness is ideal for backpackers. When hiking, always carry water; 2 quarts per person per two hour hike is recommended. This wilderness area is the site of the reintroduction of the black-footed ferret, the most endangered land mammal in North America.

Permit Information
No permit is required, but all backpackers are urged to stop at the Ben Reifel Visitor Center. Backpackers may camp anywhere in the park that is at least one-half mile from any road or trail and not visible from park roads. No fires are permitted.

Directions
From Westbound Interstate 90, take exit 131 (Cactus Flat) or exit 110 (Wall). Signs to Badlands National Park will take you 11 miles to the NE Entrance. From Eastbound Interstate 90, take exit 109 and follow signs 7 miles to Pinnacles Entrance.

Information Center
The Ben Reifel Visitor Center, located at Cedar Pass, 4 miles southwest of the Northeast Entrance, has exhibits, sales area, film and park headquarters.

Palmer Creek Unit
Palmer Creek Unit is the smallest and most remote section of Badlands National Park. Here you may explore the mixed grass prairie with the backdrop of sharply eroded buttes, pinnacles and spires for which the Badlands is famous. As in the Stronghold Unit, there are no established trails in the Palmer Creek Unit. You may hike anywhere in this region, but you must be familiar with navigation and routefinding, as it is easy to get disoriented. All routes into Palmer Creek are impassable if any rain has fallen recently. Inquire at the White River Visitor Center for road conditions.

Permit Information

No permit is required, but all backpackers are urged to stop at the Ben Reifel Visitor Center. Backpackers may camp anywhere in the park that is at least one-half mile from any road or trail and not visible from park roads. No fires are permitted.

Directions
Access to the Palmer Creek Unit is extrememly difficult; all of the roads are privately owned and you need 4WD. From Hwy 44, head south on 589/27 at Scenic, 20 miles to White River Visitor Center, which is your launching point into the Palmer Creek Unit.

Information Center
There is no information center in the Palmer Creek Unit. Visitors should stop at the White River Visitor Center in neighboring Stronghold Unit, open from June to late August.

Stronghold Unit
The Stronghold Unit is co-managed with the Oglala Sioux Tribe and includes sites of 1890s Ghost Dances. The land is contained within the Pine Ridge Indain Reservation. Visitors to the Stronghold Unit will find the same spectacular rock formations and mixed grass prairie as in the North Unit, but with a more remote and desolate feel. There are no established trails in the Stronghold Unit. You may hike anywhere in this region, but you must be familiar with navigation and routefinding, as it is easy to get disoriented.

A visit to Sheep Mountain Table will reward the visitor with one of Badlands National Park's most outstanding vistas. This 4 mile long plateau is surrounded by steep drop offs and is accessible by a 7 mile dirt road which is passable ohly when dry. Because this is a sacred place for the Lakota people, do not disturb any religious artifacts or prople participating in religious activities.

Permit Information
No permit is required, but all backpackers are urged to stop at the Ben Reifel Visitor Center. Backpackers may camp anywhere in the park that is at least one-half mile from any road or trail and not visible from park roads. No fires are permitted.

Directions
From Hwy. 44, head south on 589/27 at Scenic, 20 miles to White River Visitor Center. Unimproved roads provide access deep into the Stronghold Unit. These roads are impassable when wet.

Information Center
White River Visitor Center is open from June to late August.

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GUIDE TO OFU, TA'U, TUTUILA ISLAND IN AMERICAN SAMOA NATIONAL PARK

Ofu Island
There are no maintained trails on this island, but the beaches are fine coral sand, ideal for walking along.

The coral reef communities here are some of the healthiest in the South Pacific, making this an ideal place to snorkel. Your must bring gear from Tutuila Island.

Permit Information
No permit is needed, but before you visit Ofu Island be sure to check with park staff about the special rules that apply here.

Directions
This island lies 60 miles east (a 30-minute flight on a small plane) from Tutuila. Flights are also available between the islands of Ofu and Ta'u.

Information Center
There is a visitor center on Hwy. 001 in Pago Pago, Tutuila Island.

Ta'u Island
Saua on Ta'u Island is a sacred site that is believed by many to be the birthplace of the Polynesian people. There are no park-maintained trails on this island, but it is possible to hike along the beaches here. It is recommended that guides be hired for hiking in remote areas; guide service may be arranged through park staff.

Watch the skies for flying foxes. The south shore of Ta'u has 3000-foot sea cliffs, the tallest in the world.

Permit Information
No permit needed.

Directions
This island lies about 70 miles east (a 30-minute flight on a small plane) from Tutuila. Flights are also available between the islands of Ofu and Ta'u.

Information Center
There is a visitor center on Hwy. 001 in Pago Pago, Tutuila Island.

Tutuila Island
Allow a few hours for the scenic drive to the north coast of Tutuila, including stops. You may wish to stay overnight in the village of Afono or Vatia.

There are panoramic views along this route, especially from Afono Pass. The Amalau Valley is a good place to watch above the trees for flying foxes (giant fruit bats).

Permit Information
No permit needed.

Directions
From Pago Pago International Airport, drive north along Hwy. 001 to the visitor center in Pago Pago.

Information Center
The park visitor center is located in Pago Pago off Hwy. 001.

GUIDE TO AMERICAN SAMOA NATIONAL PARK

The visitor center for American Samoa National Park is located In Pago Pago, Tutuila Island, just off of Hwy. 001. The nearest airport is the Pago Pago International Airport on Tutuila. Airplane service is available several times per week from Honolulu, Hawaii, U.S.

Regularly scheduled flights (small planes) serve national park areas on Ofu and Tau Islands and the nearby nation of Samoa. Local "AIGA" buses travel Tutuila Island from dawn to dusk. Taxi service and rental cars are available.

Operating Hours
Open year-round.

Visitation
Highest June-September; lowest October-May.

Permits
Because park land is leased from private landowners, camping requires landowner permission.

Visitors Center and Programs
Visitor Center: The park visitor center is located in the Pago Plaza office building on the island of Tutuila.

Food Supplies and Concessions
Food/Supplies: Food and supplies are available in nearby villages. Visitors should not expect typical mainland facility and service standards.

Visitor Impact
Always snorkel with a partner. While on the beach areas, watch out for falling coconuts, which can kill. Coral rubble beaches are difficult to walk on; watch your step. Be especially careful of rocky areas, which are slippery. Never hike without water; carry 2 to 3 liters per person.

Don't touch the coral! Cuts from coral take a long time to heal.

Additional Information
Medical treatment is only available on Tutuila.

There is only one park-maintained trail currently accessible. This is the Mt. 'Alava Trail on Tutuila. Terrain is very rugged in these islands. There are some old village trails that are overgrown, eroded, steep, and dangerous -- they are not recommended, and their condition will continue to deteriorate over time.

There is hotel-style lodging outside of the park boundaries on all three islands. Samoan people are hospitable and eager to share their culture with park visitors. You are encouraged to stay with a Samoan family in a village during your visit. Make arrangements through the park staff.

Because park land is leased from private landowners, camping requires landowner permission.

American Samoa is in the South Pacific Ocean between the Equator and the Tropic of Capricorn; tropical climate prevails. Temperatures are warm or hot year-round (high 70's to low 90's F) with high humidity. Rain showers are frequent.

Solar radiation is intense here! Always wear sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, and protective clothing. Carry and use insect repellent.

GUIDE TO GALAPAGOS ARCHIPELAGO

Intense Volcanic and Seismic Activity

The western part of the Galapagos Archipelago is volcanically active, in a continuation of the ongoing geologic processes that have created nearly all the islands in the chain. Eruptions, earth tremors, lava flows and ash falls are common occurrences.

Marine Life of the Archipelago
The Galapagos Archipelago is home to fringing coral reefs, hawksbill and green turtles, sharks, rays, whales, myriad seabirds, and nearly 300 species of tropical fish.

Natural Laboratory of Evolution
The remoteness of the islands from the mainland, the differing distances between them, and their distinct elevational and moisture gradients have created an incomparable natural laboratory of evolution -- witness the 13 species of Darwin's finches.

Scuba Diving in the Galapagos
Some of the best diving in the world is found in the vast Galapagos Archipelago, among coral atolls, abundant tropical fish, and giant sea turtles. Dive boats can be reserved from the mainland.

Volcanic Features of the Islands
In addition to volcanic cones, craters, and lava flows, the Galapagos Islands also have crater lakes, fumaroles, sulphur fields, lava tubes, accumulations of pumice and ash, and lava sand beaches.

The park is located directly on the Equator, in the open Pacific Ocean about 1000 km off the coast of the nation of Ecuador. It is accessible by water and by 1.5-hour scheduled airline flight from Guyaquil or Quito, Ecuador, landing either in Baltra or San Cristobal.

Most visits to the Galapagos take the form of guided cruises from the mainland, local-port-based boat trips, or a combination of the above. Unguided exploration is allowed in designated areas of the four inhabited islands.

GUIDE TO CORCOVADO NATIONAL PARK

Cloud Forests
More than half of Corcovado National Park is mountainous, with the highest reaches inhabited by the oaks and tree ferns of the Costa Rican cloud forest.

Corcovado Lagoon
Corcovado Lagoon and adjacent swamplands encompass over 1,000 hectares of habitat for crocodiles and other swamp lowland species.

Rainforest Trees
More than 500 species of trees occur in this incredibly biodiverse preserve. Some reach heights of over 50 metres and are supported by giant buttresses.

Scarlet Macaws
Flocks of scarlet macaws grace the trees and skies of Corcovado, together with parakeets, trogons, and many species of hummingbirds.

Corcovado National Park is located on the southwest Pacific coast of Costa Rica, on the Osa Peninsula of the province of Puntarenas, approximately 330 km from San Jose. It is accessible via the Pan American Highway, by chartered small airplane into the Sirena airstrip, or by commercial flight to the Palmar airport then surface transport to the park.

GUIDE TO IGUAZU NATIONAL PARK

In the Guaraní language of the Tres Fronteras area, Iguazú means “big waters,” and the good news is that the thunderous surge of Iguazú Falls—perhaps the planet’s greatest chain of cascades—continues to plunge over an ancient lava flow, some 20 kilometers east of the town of Puerto Iguazú.

Its overwhelming natural assets, including the surrounding subtropical rainforest, have earned it recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The bad news is that Argentina’s APN, the state entity charged with preserving and protecting this natural heritage, has buckled to rampant Disneyfication. The falls, its core attraction, have become a mass-tourism destination that might more accurately be called Parque Temático Iguazú—Iguazú Theme Park.

While they’ve done something right in limiting automobile access—cars must park in a guarded lot and visitors enter the park on foot—the concessionaire has turned the area surrounding the falls into an area of manicured lawns, fast-food restaurants and souvenir stands, connected by a cheesy narrow-gauge train. Maintenance crews use leaf-blowers to clean the concrete trails near the visitors center every morning.

Around the falls proper, clean-cut youths with walkie-talkies shunt hikers out by 7 p.m.—the perfect closing hour for a theme park—unless you’re a privileged guest at the Sheraton, the park’s only accommodations. The exception to the rule is the monthly full-moon tour, which is well worthwhile.

That’s not to say commercial greed has completely overrun nature—the park still has extensive subtropical rainforests, with colorfully abundant birdlife along with less conspicuous mammals and reptiles. All of these animals demand respect, but some more so than others—in 1997, a jaguar killed a park ranger’s infant son; pumas are even more common, and poisonous snakes are also present.

In 1541 Alvar Núñez Cabeza de Vaca, one of the most intrepid Spaniards in the New World, was the first European to see the falls. But in an area populated by tens of thousands of Guaraní Indians prior to the European invasion, he can hardly have discovered them, despite the assertions of a commemorative plaque.

By default, almost everyone will stay in or near Puerto Iguazú—the park’s only option is the behemoth Sheraton Internacional Iguazú Resort & Spa (tel. 03757/491800, reservas@iguazu.sheraton.com.ar, US$426–498 s or d), an incongruously sited building whose ungainly exterior has a certain Soviet-style presence. The more expensive rooms have views of the falls.

The hotel has several restaurants, but anyone not eating there will have to settle for the fast-food clones, a pizzeria, and the odd parrilla on the park grounds. Better food is available in Puerto Iguazú.
Other Practicalities

Panels at the APN’s Centro de Interpretación (tel. 03757/491444, 7:30 a.m.–6:15 p.m. daily in spring and summer, 8 a.m.–5:45 p.m. daily the rest of the year) give vivid explanations of the park’s environment, ecology, ethnology, and history; there are also helpful personnel on duty.

For foreigners, the admission charge of US$10 is the most expensive to any Argentine national park; if you return the next day, your ticket is half price. Entry fees include the Tren de la Selva and launch access to Isla San Martín. The concessionaire Iguazú Argentina has a website (www.iguazuargentina.com) in Spanish, Portuguese, and English.

From the Puerto Iguazú bus terminal, El Práctico buses (US$1.35) operate frequently between 7:15 a.m. and 8 p.m., taking 45 minutes to or from the park. The company, however, may lose the concession to Crucero del Norte.

Source : http://www.moon.com/

TIPS FOR RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL

When we visit beautiful places it's natural to want our holidays to have a positive impact on local people and their environments.
Responsible travel is about more authentic holiday experiences that enable you to get a little bit more out of your travels, and give a little bit more back to destinations and local people.
All holidays have positive and negative impacts locally. Responsible travel maximises the benefits, and minimises the negative effects of tourism.

Before you book your holiday
* Plan your route to minimise carbon emissions - travel by train and public transport where possible, and minimise internal flights. Try our lower carbon travel holidays, or there are some great ideas for train travel almost anywhere in the world on this web site: http://www.seat61.com/

* Minimise flying time and stopovers - the worst carbon emissions are emitted during take off and landing. For the flights that you cannot avoid, offset the carbon emissions of your flight using our carbon calculator . That way the money is invested in carbon reducing initiatives around the world, offsetting the emissions caused by your flight. Read our view on flying here

* Ask to see the tour operator's policy for responsible tourism. All responsibletravel.com members have to have one. Make sure it explains how they minimise environmental impacts and support the local economy.

* Ask your hotel/accommodation our 10 simple questions to see if they really are eco!

Before you travel
# Read up on local cultures and learn a few words of the local language - travelling with respect earns you respect
# Remove all excess packaging - waste disposal is difficult in remote places and developing countries
# Ask your tour operator for specific tips for responsible travel in your destination
# Ask your tour operator/hotel if there are useful gifts that you could pack for your hosts, local people or schools
# Ask your tour operator whether there are local conservation or social projects that you could visit on your trip, and if/how you could help support them

While on holiday
* Buy local produce in preference to imported goods
* Hire a local guide - you'll discover more about local culture and lives, and they will earn an income
* Do not buy products made from endangered species, hard woods or ancient artefacts
* Respect local cultures, traditions and holy places - if in doubt ask advice or don't visit
* Use public transport, hire a bike or walk when convenient - its a great way to meet local people on their terms and reduce pollution and carbon emissions
* Use water sparingly - its very precious in many countries and tourists tend to use far more than local people
* Remember that local people have different ways of thinking and concepts of time, this just makes them different not wrong - cultivate the habit of asking questions (rather than the Western habit of knowing the answers). For more ideas on deeper and more responsible travel see here.

When you get back
Write to your tour operator or hotel with any comments or feedback about your holiday,and especially include any sugesstions.

# on reducing environmental impacts and increasing benefits to local communities. You will find independent holiday reviews from travellers on many responsibletravel.com holidays.
# If you've promised to send pictures or gifts to local people remember to do so, many are promised and not all arrive!
# Enjoy the memories, reflect on your experience and start planning your next trip !

Source : http://responsibletravel.com/

WORLDS GREATEST DIVE SPOTS

Stephen Regenold is better know by his pseudonym, The Gear Junkie, which he uses when he writes his nationally syndicated column on outdoor adventure and equipment. Recently he penned a story for Travel+Leisure Magazine listing the ten best spots to go SCUBA diving in the world.

In order to come up with his definitive list, Regenold asked ten veteran divers, each of whom have extensive dive experience around the globe, to name their favorite dive spots. The results were a great mix of classic dives and hidden gems.

He then compiled them into a slideshow that highlights each location, with an amazing photo, a description of where the dive spot is located, and an explanation of what makes it unique and special.

Some of the locations that make the list include Cenote Taj Maja and Santa Rosalia, both in Mexico. The former is an impressive spot for cave diving, while the latter is famous for allowing divers to get up close and personal with large Humboldt squid.

The famous Bikini Atoll in the Marshall Islands makes the list for it's abundance of wrecks, with literally dozens of sunken ships in the area, while Utila Island, off the coast of Honduras, is lauded for the twice yearly migration of the whale shark that passes through the surrounding waters.

The list has a little something for everyone, no matter what style of diving you prefer. Each of spots mentioned here offer specatacular waters, amazing sunken sights, and plenty of adventure.

ADVENTURE TRAVEL IN SOUTHERN FLORIDA

If you're looking for the sort of travel that gets your heart pumping a bit and you feel as if you're whole body is engaged in your vacation experience, look to Florida. That's the idea behind the on-line and print publication South Florida Adventures.

Whether you like to take to the water or are a dry land type person--or want to combine both, the round-up of the publication's10 top stories of the year is an excellent place to start searching out ideas for adventurous travel. Here are eight of the stories that are specifically travel related. The other two are profile pieces.

• Stand-up paddleboarding: Not only do you get an adventure, but you can give muscles a work-out while you keep an eye out for dolphins and other ocean creatures.
• Cycling along A1A from West Palm Beach to Ft. Lauderdale: Read this article for a personal perspective from a cycling champion.
• Archeology and Nature Hike at Long Key Nature Center:The adventure in this travel option comes from interacting with the wildlife and seeing where Native Americans roamed years ago.
• Kayaking on the Oleta River: The river once connected the Biscayne Bay with the Everglades. This travel options sounds like a terrific way to enjoy mangrove swamp scenery, but remember the bug spray.
• Dive among wrecks and coral reefs: There are five wrecks and five reefs recommended in this article.
• Hike on Tamiami Trail: The trail gives glimpses of deer and other wild life on the way. The writer thinks he may have seen a bobcat.
• Mountain Biking in Amelia Earhart Park: The single track winds through gorgeous scenery and offers riders a workout.

Each of these sound quite worthy of combining into an adventure travel week where you could easily combine them into one vacation. I'd say you'd end up with a unique perspective of this part of Florida as a result.

[from Travel Briefs in Columbus Dispatch]

GO TO TRULY GET AWAY FROM IT ALL

Everyone has different reasons for why they like to travel, and their destinations of choice vary just as much. Some love to visit noisy, bustling foreign cities, others prefer the quiet tranquility of a secluded beach. Then of course, there are the travelers who truly like to get away from it all. They prefer to visit remote wilderness places, far off the beaten path, with few, if any, amenities.

Veteran traveler and adventurer Jeremy Lazell has put together a list of the best wilderness getaways for the Sunday Times of London, spotlighting some of the premiere spots on the planet for those that prefer their journeys to take them to unique, and out of the way places. These are true backcountry destinations, some of which are still very wild and untamed.

All told, there are 12 destinations on Lazell's list, from all corners of the globe, including Mongolia, Morrocco, Patagonia, and more. His personal favorite is a place called Knoydart in the Scottish Highlands, which we learn boasts "85 square miles of Highland heather, mountains and midges". The place has one pub, which requires an 18 mile hike to reach, and the deer outnumber the people 10-1. Paradise for any adventure traveler.

The other places offer a similar level of remoteness, as well as a variety of activites, such as trekking, dogsledding, white water rafting, and camping. Any of these destinations would serve as a perfect escape for the active traveler looking for isolation and adventure in their next vacation.