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An Introduction to Steamboat Springs, CO
Steamboat Springs, Colorado, or “Ski Town” as it is affectionately known, is one of the most charming and unique vacation destinations in the United States. The town prides itself as a place that offers world class service and amenities without the...
Florida Is The Mythical Endless Summer
(NC)-A complete break from routine - with guaranteed sunshine, sand and surf - is the only way to get a genuine taste of the mythical endless summer.
During July and August when the kids are at loose ends, when the corporate world...
Hello from Caledon, Elora & Guelph: Fall Colours, Ghosts and Ghouls
Fall is one of the most beautiful seasons in Ontario, and after
last weeks early fall colour tour through the Kawarthas east of
Toronto, it was time yesterday to check out the areas west of
Toronto. My husband and I set off on the highway, left...
Something for Everyone in New Zealand - South Island Part 2
This is the second part to this article which describes various
areas of New Zealand. The first part of the article was about
areas within the North Island.
The South Island also has two major cities, Christchurch and
Dunedin. Christchurch...
The Spanish Costa Blanca - A Nature Lovers Paradise
If you have chosen the Costa Blanca , Spain for your holiday
travel, supposedly it is because it has been recommended to you
by someone you trust, you have read about it and seems quite
amazing and/or just love being in contact with nature,...
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Olympic National Park - Washington
If you love the color green, Olympic National Park. With plenty of rain throughout the year, the park is in a constant state of insanely beautiful green. It contains 922,651 acres including glacier-capped mountains, 60 miles of wild Pacific coast and magnificent stands of old growth and temperate rain forest. There are over 1,100 species of native plants, 300 species of birds and 70 species of mammals. My personal favorites are the waterfalls, which fall from cliff faces into pools of crystal clear water.
Olympic Trivia
1. Ninety five percent of the park is designated wilderness, offering visitors a chance to experience the park's amazing diversity in its natural and pristine state.
2. The isolation and diverse habitats of the Olympic Peninsula have led to the development of a variety of endemic species -- at least 15 kinds of animals and 8 kinds of plants are found at Olympic and no where else on earth.
3. Olympic protects 3,500 miles of streams, rivers and creeks, which provide home to 29 species of native freshwater fish. These waterways are also host to 54 unique populations of Pacific salmon and steelhead, which use both fresh and saltwater during their life cycle. Sorry, but you have to leave the fly fishing rods at home.
Olympic Attractions
1. On clear days, Hurricane Ridge boasts stunning views of both the Olympic
Mountains and the Strait of Juan de Fuca. On foggy days, the close-up views of subalpine firs, wildflowers or snow are just as beautiful.
2. Entering the temperate rain forest at the Hoh, Quinault or Queets valleys is like entering a world of green. Over 12 feet of rain fall in these valleys each year, creating a forest where trees reach over 200 feet in height and are covered with carpets of ferns, mosses and other epiphytes.
3. When the tide recedes, tide pools offer glimpses of a world apart. Giant green anemones wave their tentacles alongside orange and purple sea stars, while limpets graze on tiny algae. Be sure to check tide charts before you venture out - tide pools are covered by sea water half of the time!
4. With more than 600 miles of trail, there's endless opportunity for discovery at Olympic. A number of universally accessible trails are available, providing close-up views of beach, forest and meadow for visitors of all ages, whether on foot, in wheelchairs or riding in strollers.
Sorry, but I still can’t get over how green this park is. If you get a chance to visit Olympic National Park, don’t miss it.
About the Author
Rick Chapo is with Nomad Journals - makers of outdoor writing journals. Visit NomadJournalTrips.com to read more.
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