Dripping Springs Natural Area, Las Cruces, New Mexico

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Marty_A_Moore]Marty A Moore
This place is definitely worth the trip! Located at the base of the Organ Mountains, about 11 miles East of Las Cruces, New Mexico. The Dripping Springs Natural Area is just a few miles outside of the dry desert surrounding Las Cruces, but it's a whole different world!
Going east up University Avenue, the pavement ends and a gravel road continues up towards the Organ Mountains, just keep going and it will terminate at the Dripping Springs Visitor Center.
Right before you reach the Dripping Springs Visitor Center, you pass a large rock formation on your left, it is named "La Cueva", meaning "The Cave", very interesting place to stop and investigate.
The Dripping Springs Natural Area is open year-round, from 8:00 a.m. till 7:00 p.m. April through September and 8:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. October through March. The day-use fee is $3.00 per vehicle and picnic sites can be reserved for $25.00. The visitor center is open from 8:00 a.m. till 5:00 p.m., 575-522-1210.
You will want to make a day of Dripping Springs, pack a picnic lunch, your hiking gear, some drinking water and head for the mountains. The scenery is beautiful and the view is spectacular. Hiking trails are well-maintained and not too strenuous, but you will be walking mostly uphill for about a couple of miles, so make sure to stop and rest often.
If you're observant, you should see lots of wildlife, lizards, birds, ground squirrels and maybe even a deer or Oryx. As you are hiking up the trail you may notice small piles of berries, those are Fox droppings!
Springtime is a fantastic time to visit the park, the California Poppies are blooming and lots of other wildflowers dot the country side. Also, if you go in the rainy season, as the name suggests, you may see some dripping springs!
There is a lot to see in Dripping Springs, Van Patten's Mountain Camp, Boyd's Sanatorium and Van Patten's Reservoir are just some of the old buildings hidden behind towering canyon walls, in the majestic Organ Mountains.
Going from the valley of Las Cruces to the Organ Mountains is like going to a whole different state, it's amazing how the terrain can change in just a few miles. Tired of the desert, head for the Mountains!
Bring your camera, so you can show your friends what you did that day, they won't believe you were in the desert of New Mexico. If you want to see pictures of the Dripping Springs Natural Area, click on the link below.
New Mexico is most certainly the Land of Enchantment!
This article was written by Marty Moore of Sun Gardens. For pictures of the Dripping Springs area, please go to: [http://sungardensinc.com/blog/?p=70]http://sungardensinc.com/blog/?p=70, or for more interesting day trip ideas around the desert Southwest, and pictures, please visit my site at: http://www.sungardensinc.com and click on the day trips link.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Dripping-Springs-Natural-Area,-Las-Cruces,-New-Mexico&id=6561725] Dripping Springs Natural Area, Las Cruces, New Mexico

The Un-Canadian Sport of Backpacking

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Greg_R._Lynch]Greg R. Lynch
With so many backpacking trails in the Canadian Rockies, it's amazing to find more international tourists than Canadians citizens enjoying an outdoor adventure.
The Rocky Mountains of British Columbia and Alberta offer spectacular scenery and memorable treks. Just a few hours from Calgary, backpackers can go further into the wilds, stay longer in nature and be one of the few to witness the ever changing beauty of the back-country.
"Maybe we've become too accustomed to having all of this natural beauty so close to home," says Greg Lynch, an avid hiker and outdoor enthusiast with Scenic Travel Canada. "Perhaps that is why more Canadians don't venture into our own back yard." Here are a few backpacking trips he recommends:
Backpacking to Elbow Lake in Kananaskis, Alberta
K-country is a mountain playground just outside of Calgary & Banff and offers backpacking trips for people of all fitness levels. Elbow Lake is a short but steep hike that offers a well maintained campground along the shores of a small, green lake at the base of two mountains. This is the entrance to the Elbow Valley that leads to glacier hikes, waterfalls and high-altitude camping. The beauty and quiet of the area is amazing.
Exploring the Upper Kananaskis Loop Trail - Alberta
Day hikers can take this 15 kilometer walking hiking tour around this turquoise lake. Backpackers can extend the trip into a 2-3 day trek to explore secluded valleys, towering waterfalls and other mountain lakes at higher elevations. The continental divide, which marks the eastern or western flow of water as well as the provincial border, is never out of view.

Camping above the tree-line leaves backpackers potentially exposed to high winds, especially as Pacific weather systems move in from the coast. Camping in the forest, amongst 400 year old trees, provides more shelter and safety.
Hiking along Iceline Trail in Yoho National Park, BC
Exploring the glacier-scoured terrain in the BC Rockies is magical. Mornings are cold, even in the summer. As you emerge from your tent, in the shadow of a towering peak, the distant valleys offer a mountainous invitation to all those true adventure-lovers.
This 2-3 day trek gives hikers a more intimate view of Takakkaw Falls, a popular tourist destination near Field, BC. During the day, you'll hike through terrain on well-trodden wildlife paths and ascend mountain ridges that few people ever get to see (bear training is recommended). The nights are best when the moon is full. With a clear sky, the Milky Way seems close enough to touch.
<a target="_new" rel="nofollow" href="http://scenictravelcanada.ca/adventure/backpacking/backpacking-canada">Backpacking in Canada</A> isn't just for tourists. Consider exploring your own backyard and discover the beauty that so many people from around the world have known for years.
Scenic Travel Canada is a website that helps travelers and nature-lovers to discover Canada. There are plenty of <a target="_new" href="http://www.scenictravelcanada.ca">outdoor adventures</A> that cater to people of all fitness levels. From hiking in the Rockies to walking the sandy shores in the Maritimes, you'll be amazed at the beautiful Canadian scenery that awaits.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?The-Un-Canadian-Sport-of-Backpacking&id=6598866] The Un-Canadian Sport of Backpacking

The Best Travel Accessories That A Backpacker Needs!

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Alex_Kitsos]Alex Kitsos
As a backpacker, you will need a few travel accessories that will make your life so much easier and pleasant while on the road. Read our tips and advice on the Top 5 Travel Accessories that backpackers need!
5. Sleep Sheet
When staying in dorm rooms at hostels sometimes the bedding (linen, mattress and pillow) can be too disgusting to sleep on. What you need is a sleep sheet to keep you clean.
A sleep sheet is also known as a travel sheet, sleeping bag liner or silk liner. They can be made from silk or cotton and their main purpose is to keep you clean from dirty linen or keep you from making your sleeping bag dirty. Some may include a pillow case section for your pillow or a folded up jumper.
A sleep sheet is perfect for staying in dorm rooms, camping, or even to cover yourself when sleeping out in an airport or train station. Once you have used one, you will never go back.
4. Travel Towel
Who wants to use a towel that has been used by hundreds of other backpackers before you? Most hostels will make you hire towels when you arrive if you do not have your own travel towel.
Travel towels come in all different shapes and sizes, but remember the smaller the towel the tougher the backpacker you are! They are basically made from a quick dry material that will wick moisture away from your skin. Remember to let it dry before putting it back into your backpack, otherwise they will start to stink and or grow mould.
Travel towels are perfect for use at hostels, camping or even as towels for the beach.
3. Backpack Cover
A backpack rain cover is what all backpackers will wish they had when it starts to rain while you are lost trying to find your hostel. A backpack cover will protect your backpack and belongings from the elements. Some backpackers even use them to protect their backpacks when they are own public transport.
Most backpacks should come with their own backpack cover, or you can buy them from most outdoor shops. Make sure you get the right size to match the size of your backpack. If your backpack is made from canvas, you won't need a cover, as your pack should be waterproof.
2. Travel Cutlery and Bowl
The easiest way to save money when you are backpacking is to self-cater. Sure, it is good to try the local cuisine and culture, but not every meal should be eaten at a restaurant.
You should use a bowl, preferably a collapsible bowl, and lightweight travel cutlery when you are on the road. They are perfect for having a picnic in a park or just to use something clean when eating in a hostel kitchen. Make sure you pack your cutlery into your checked-in luggage when catching a plane, otherwise you may lose it when you go through customs.
Ask at the hostel where the local supermarket or a local produce market is and make sure you buy food for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
1. International Travel Adapter
Last but not least is the travel adapter. It is the most important travel accessory for any backpacker or any traveller. Backpackers are taking more and more electronics with them when they go overseas, we have even seen backpackers with power-boards!
Make sure you buy the right adapter for the countries you will be travelling to, otherwise you will find yourself with a flat battery. You could always purchase a universal travel adapter, which has a number of connections on the one adapter.
There are many other travel accessories that will help you along the way, but these are the ones that the team at Trusty Travel Tips have found the most helpful!
A team of four dedicated and experienced travellers have together to form [http://www.trusty-travel-tips.com]Trusty Travel Tips. We provide great travel tips and advice on planning your adventure, what to pack, how to pack and what to expect when travelling on the road.
You may be interested in our tips and advice on travel security accessories that will keep your belongings safe or the best travel accessories to pack. Also we have great information on backpacking for beginners, how to fit your backpack, and a extensive backpacking checklist.
For travel advice from travellers for travellers visit [http://www.trusty-travel-tips.com]www.trusty-travel-tips.com.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?The-Best-Travel-Accessories-That-A-Backpacker-Needs!&id=6608350] The Best Travel Accessories That A Backpacker Needs!

How To Pick The Right Size Backpack

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Bob_Storrs]Bob Storrs
There are lots of benefits to traveling with the right backpack. It frees your hands and it's sturdier and easier to travel with than luggage. Cool backpacks have become the traveler's best friend, parked on your back, there are few limits as to where you can go.
For some, backpacks are just a means to carry some of their things, for others, the serious backpackers, it is a way of life, or at least for a while and thus, when they choose a backpack, they are looking for important designs, details and features. When choosing a backpack, there are some things you should keep in mind to help select the perfect pack for your needs such as the fabric, size and fit, loading type and major features.
The first thing to remember is that you are packing this bag on your back, so comfort and fit are critical to your selection. You'll probably carry at least 20 to 30 pounds and if more than that, you'll soon decide what is important and what has to go. However, if you are camping or traveling during colder weather, your backpack will be required to hold a lot more than someone whom is taking small trips or traveling without the need to bring along sleeping bags.
The type of backpacking you do will also be a determining factor in your choice of pack. You will want to try these packs on, even having the sales clerk load up the pack so that you have an idea of how it feels and how it fits. Test drive it while you walk, run, climb stairs, if possible, to really determine how it would feel after some time on your back. You want a backpack that is proportional to your body size, if you are shorter or of a smaller frame, then your pack should not be taller than 22 inches, as anything much taller will get you in the back of your neck or head. For most people, traveling with a backpack of 45 to 80 Liters is sufficient. Many experienced travelers find that larger backpacks are often too big to handle on transportation such as buses. As to style and color, you will find many cool backpacks to choose from.
You will want a backpack that is durable and waterproof made of such material as cordura, and ripstop nylon. You should pay attention to the stitching, the attachment of straps and hip belts to ensure that they are well fastened. You don't want to blow a strap midway through a trip and have to find someone to stitch it. You will also have choices as to types of loading for these backpacks. The top loading types usually have larger openings and are more water-resistant and easier to use. However, they are more difficult to organize, especially if you need to retrieve items often. The panel loading U-shaped openings with zippers are better for organizing, but not as waterproof. There are also packs with both loading features.
You should also consider the shoulder straps, their width, padding and balance so that they don't slip while keeping the pack snug. Make sure they don't restrict your arm or upper body movement. Hip belts are really important as well, as they should be strong enough to transfer some of the weight from your back to the hips and aid in the comfort of wearing a backpack for considerable time. It too must be well padded to avoid pressure points. With large backpacks, the hip belt functions as the main load-bearing feature. There will also be additional straps such as side compression straps and chest straps. The type of adjustments on all of these straps is what is important as to strength, durability and long lasting life.
You will also have lots of choices as to other features, such as pockets, compartments, back pads, lightweight, aluminum stays, top flaps to name just a few. Good durable cool backpacks are a necessity to making your travel more enjoyable, if only for a day or for years.
If you're looking to buy a backpack you'll want to head on over to [http://www.cool-backpacks.com]www.Cool-Backpacks.com for more information you'll need to know before making your purchase. You can also review some of the more popular models at [http://www.Cool-Backpacks.com/fjallraven_backpack.html]Fjallraven Backpack.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?How-To-Pick-The-Right-Size-Backpack&id=6609110] How To Pick The Right Size Backpack

How To Choose A Cool Backpack For The Best Fit

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Bob_Storrs]Bob Storrs
Choosing cool backpacks is going to be dependent on where you are going and what you will be doing, as some backpacks come large enough to contain your sleeping bag and tent which is not needed for a daily trek in a park, nor would you want a pack so small that you need to carry additional bags. The right pack should be just big enough to carry what you need and fit you properly. This article will help you achieve a good, comfortable fit.
Trends In Cool Backpacks That Assist Fit And Comfort
The traditional external frame models have almost become obsolete and replaced by with the newer body-hugging internal frame designs. Internal frames are preferred in that they keep loads stable and balanced. Their narrow profiles contribute to more allowable movement of the arms and they are less likely to snag in the bush or crowded places. External frames are still available, but limited. The majority of backpacks will have a number which describes the carrying capacity which is also the volume expressed in liters. If you are required to carry heavier loads, you will need a backpack with a higher liter number to obtain ample capacity. Packs ranging from 40 to 75 liters for men, 40 to 55 liters for women are recommended for those weekend trips. Most backpack manufacture's designs now focus on reducing overall weight of backpacks and related gear which eases in the ability to comfortably carry the load.
The Importance Of Choosing A Backpack That Fits
While many will ponder over the various backpacks and their features, one often overlooks the most important aspect of choosing a pack that fits properly. A good fitting backpack must fit your frame comfortably. The right pack will be a size that is appropriate for your torso length, not your overall height and it must comfortably grip your hips.
How To Determine Torso Length
To determine your torso length, use a flexible tape measure and have a friend or store clerk assist you. Measure the distance between your C7 vertebra or the bony bump at the base of your neck, or the most noticeable protrusion on your upper spine if you tilt your head forward, and moving down along your spine to the hip "shelf" or pelvic girdle. You can feel this shelf when you run your hands, thumbs down the side of your rib cage and is the first hard thing you encountered by your hips. This measurement is your torso length.
You will find that most manufactures size their pack frames as follows:
Extra small fits torsos with measurements up to 15 1/2"
Small is suitable for torsos 16" to 17 1/2"
Medium is recommended for torsos of 18" to 19 1/2"
Large or tall fits torsos that are 20" and up
If you find that your measurement is exactly on one of these, or between, it is best to try on the sizes higher or smaller to ensure a better fit and compare which pack feels most comfortable. Ask to have the pack loaded for recommended carrying capacity so that you get a feel as to what it is like, fully loaded. Take time to test drive the various packs by running, walking, climbing and even sitting. You want the pack to stay snug, not sway or throw you off balance. Sometimes, individuals have no choice but to consider custom made backpacks, particularly if they are of larger, heavier builds or more petite frames to ensure optimum fit.
If you're looking to buy a backpack you'll want to head on over to [http://www.cool-backpacks.com]www.Cool-Backpacks.com for more information you'll need to know before making your purchase. You can also review some of the more popular models at [http://www.Cool-Backpacks.com/herschel_backpack.html]Herschel Backpack.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?How-To-Choose-A-Cool-Backpack-For-The-Best-Fit&id=6609180] How To Choose A Cool Backpack For The Best Fit

Walking in Norfolk: Three Walking Routes in East Anglia

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Donna_Watmough]Donna Watmough
With walking in Norfolk boasting everything from coast, country, fen and forest, there's pretty much everything here for the avid walker. From the vivid colours and sun-bleached beaches of summer to the crisp frosting on the hedgerows in winter, there is always something for a walker to enjoy. Here is a brief look at three of the finest walking routes in Norfolk.
Peddars Way & Norfolk Coast Path
If you're up to some long distance walking in Norfolk, try the ancient Peddars Way which links to the Norfolk Coast Path National Trail - 93 miles along a distinctive Roman road from Knettishall Heath Country Park through to Holme-next-the-Sea, and then following wide sandy beaches to Cromer pier.
The complete route passes through some of the most diverse and beautiful countryside in Britain, from the mysterious landscape of the Brecks to wild and magnificent marshes and crumbling cliffs of North Norfolk. The gentle terrain of the Trail makes it particularly suitable for people with special access needs. There are also plenty of pubs, tearooms, guest houses and campsites en route where you can stop for a well deserved break.
Do be aware that, although much of the Peddars Way is open to cyclists, the Norfolk Coast Path is not. For more information visit the   rel=nofollow [http://www.nationaltrail.co.uk/PeddarsWay/text.asp?PageId=2]National Trail website.
Bacton Wood
If you are after somewhere where you can have a gentle stroll with your partner or family in astounding natural woodland, then Bacton Wood is well worth a visit. Bacton Wood is situated two and a half miles north east of the market town of North Walsham, and it covers over 113 hectares (280 acres). The original woodland included Sessile Oaks and two of these, which are thought to be over 200 years old, still remain. There are now over 30 species of tree in the wood including Scots and Corsian Pine, Western Hemlock, Douglas Fir and Larch. There are 3 waymarked walks denoted by colour routed posts and they vary between 2 and 4 km. Cycling and horse-riding are permitted in Bacton Wood, and there is a car park with designated disabled parking bays. Bacton Wood is owed by the Forestry Commission.
Trunch Circular Walks
If you are staying in or nearby Trunch Village, then there are two waymarked Circular Walks which are about 2 or 4 km long, depending which route you take. Of particular interest are The Warren, Green Lane, and Craunchings Loke, all of which are exceptionally peaceful, tree-line paths, and Greenpeace Wood and Trunch Oakwood are excellent examples of land being taken out of agriculture and planted with new woodland.
These are just a few of the places where you can enjoy walking in Norfolk, but there are lots more, many and varied walking routes in Norfolk. Contact the National Trail for more information on places to walk in Norfolk.
Donna Watmough lives in Norfolk and is a keen walker and horse-rider. She owns and runs self-catering holiday accommodation in the picturesque North Norfolk village of Trunch. Visit http://www.norfolkholidaycottage.org for more information.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Walking-in-Norfolk:-Three-Walking-Routes-in-East-Anglia&id=6620842] Walking in Norfolk: Three Walking Routes in East Anglia

Great Smoky Mountains National Park - Top Reasons to Hike The Trails

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Corey_Joe]Corey Joe
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a destination that offers beauty and activities for nature lovers, hikers and campers. Throughout the year, visitors come to this national park to admire the nature and wildlife it offers. Each season of the year offers different things to see, and every season offers beauty in its own unique way. Hikers have been coming here for years for many different reasons.
The Great Smoky Mountains National parks is maintained and offers a mapped extensive trail system. For this reason, hikers are able to visit this park, walk through trails and always know exactly where they are. Hikers should always check their routes prior to taking off, and should download or purchase a trail map before setting out. Route and facility closings are posted throughout the park to alert hikers which paths they should avoid. This national park is one of the best mapped parks in the world, allowing even new hikers the opportunity to set out hiking and not be afraid of getting lost.
People from all over the world visit this park because it offers so many miles of trails, making it the ideal location for hikers. Throughout this national park, there are over 850 miles of trails. Of these trails, seventy miles are part of the Appalachian Trail. The Appalachian Trail is a famous trail that is over 2,180 miles long and passes through 14 different states. Most of this trail is wilderness; although some parts of it pass through traverse towns and across rivers. Some hikers attempt to hike this entire trail in one season. These hikers are called thru-hikers and most people that attempt this begin their hike in March or April and do not finish until late summer or early fall.
One common reason people choose to hike here is to see all of the diverse wildlife that live in the wild. While hiking, people are likely to encounter numerous different animals; some of which are rarely seen in any other locations. These animals include wolves, white tailed deer, elk, black bears and wild boars. There are also approximately 200 species of birds dwelling in this area. Hikers should be aware for snakes, however. In this national park, 27 species of snakes dwell; two of which are poisonous, the rattlesnake and the copperhead. Bears are becoming more prevalent in this park, and hikers should be aware of this prior to setting out on a hike. Although seeing a bear in the wild is exciting and makes for a great story, it also poses dangers. Biologists have estimated that there are approximately 1,500 bears in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Another reason that makes this park ideal for hiking is the vast variety of trails hikers can choose from. Numerous trails lead to waterfalls; however there are nine that are the most common to travel. Waterfalls can be amazing to see and experience and many people hike these trails for that reason. Of the most commonly traveled to, Grotto Falls is a beautiful setting, as well as Laurel Falls; which is the easiest waterfall to hike to. There are also numerous hikes in and around Cades Cove, including trails Anthony Creek and Rich Mountain. Both trails lead to beautiful places in the park, and hikers on these trails will enjoy many nature sights. Hikes to history are also offered in this national park. These trails include Kephart Prong, Little Greenbrier and Old Settlers. For hikers who enjoy seeing historical sights, these trails are ideal.
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers so much for hikers. It is an ideal location for beginner or experienced hikers and offers trails that will please anyone. Whenever hiking, visitors should remember to follow the rules of the park, including never hiking alone, bringing enough water, carrying the appropriate supplies and keeping up with trail and weather conditions.
With so many miles of trails to hike in the smokies, there's no doubt a [http://www.oldcreeklodgegatlinburg.com]Gatlinburg hotel is a great starting point for adventure. Staying in a [http://www.oldcreeklodgegatlinburg.com/gsm-national-park]hotel in downtown Gatlinburg offers the extreme hiker a tremendous number of hiking opportunities.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Great-Smoky-Mountains-National-Park---Top-Reasons-to-Hike-The-Trails&id=6631619] Great Smoky Mountains National Park - Top Reasons to Hike The Trails