Destinations & Things To Do
Days 13 thru 16 – Lakes and Creeks
Day 13 – Wanda Lake to Tentsite on Piute Creek – 15.3 miles
Last night, during my bathroom break, the near full moon turned the baren landscape into a moon scape. It was both very beautiful and kind of erie. I did not carry my headlamp because it was so light out. Walking back I realized that many of the boulders looked just like our tent, especially in the moonlight. Fortunately I knew the tent was between me and the lake, so I just headed towards the lake and one of the boulders magically turned into our tent.
Discussing this with Meriwether today, we wondered if anyone ever crawled into the wrong tent. Some of the tentsites will accommodate a bunch of tents. There are at least four other tents just like ours very close to where we are set up tonight.
The hike today was 99.9 percent downhill. The uphill wasn’t even really uphill. I don’t think I have ever spent an entire day backpacking going downhill. The grade was very gentle, easy on the knees. We made really good time and took some great breaks.
My favorite break was at lunch, right after we crossed Evolution Creek. This is a big creek that can be dangerous to cross. There is an alternate trail that crosses the creek in a much easier place. We did NOT take the alternate. There is a very deep spot in the creek where the trail crosses. I found that to be a great place to cool off.
We only have a few miles to Muir Trail Ranch, our next resupply. They do not offer any other amenities to hikers, so we will probably grab our food, charge our phones, and keep moving. That is, unless the hot springs are very inviting or they offer us a discount on a hut for the night.
Happy Trails!
Day 14 – Tentsite on Piute Creek to Tentsite on Marie Lake – 11.6 miles
We got to see all our good trail friends today. Becca and Simone were at MTR when we arrived. They introduced us to their friend 2 Puffs before heading out. I imagine they will be about 3 or 4 hours ahead of us tonight. Peter and Laura showed up after we had sorted through our resupply. They either got enamored with the hot springs and stayed or are likely 2 hours behind us.
The roar of Piute Creek drowned out any noise from our neighbor campers and lulled me into a deep sleep. There would be no midnight bathroom break. I woke feeling great and ready to go.
The plan for today is to get to MTR for our resupply and decide whether to spend the night there or press on. MTR has cabins and tents that can be rented for $250 per person with a two night minimum. The price does include dinner and breakfast.
The sign on the store said “No Vacancy”, I guess we are moving on. Our resupply bucket was there and intact. We did a bit of trading and discarding, recharged our electronics, washed our hands with soap, weighed our packs, and set off. My pack weighed in at 31 pounds, 2 pounds heavier than Meriwether’s. Please note that I carry the tent and cook gear.
Plan 2 was to head to the lake just before Seldon Pass. On the way to the lake a swarm of flies converged on Meriwether. She wasn’t interested in stopping until the flies went away. So we hiked passed the lake and over Seldon Pass to Lake Marie. Except for the massive cloud just in the distance, this site is wonderful. There are mountains close and in the distance. The lake is rippling blue green and pretty warm.
We are in striking distance of VVR. If we get to the turn off in time to catch the ferry, there is a chance we will go to the resort. We are both very interested in a cold, fizzy drink. There are also showers, laundry, and a cafe at the resort. My shirt and pants are turning white from the salt stains.
Happy Trails!
Day 15 – Tentsite on Marie Lake to Tentsite on Mono Creek – 14.9 miles 122.5
The biggest mistake I have made on this trip is to pack the exact same meal for dinner. Yesterday I snagged some packaged sweet and spicy tuna from the hiker box at MTR. I ate it for lunch on a soft tortilla. It was so good. Last night for dinner, tonight for dinner, every night for dinner I have been eating ramen (the $1 package), spam, and peanut butter. It is one of my favorite backpacking meals. Well, it used to be. At most there will be 9 more dinners of it, but I have a plan to reduce that number.
We made it to the intersection with VVR in plenty of time to make the ferry. We decided, however, to press on. We should be able to get to Red’s Meadow in two days. Red’s is closer to the trail, we have a resupply bucket there, and it has pretty much the same amenities as VVR.
The hike today was almost all in the woods. Occasionally we would get a glimpse of the mountains. Mostly we got to see some majestic trees. I think they are Sequoias, but I am no tree expert.
We also had to content with swarms of mozzies. For a couple miles I thought there was a hummingbird on each shoulder. Every now and then I could feel their claws punch my skin. One of the pinches was particularly hard, I glanced over and realized it was a massive mozzies. I squashed it and coated my shirt with blood.
Tomorrow we tackle Silver Pass. It is just under 4 miles away and I am hoping it will be a cool, bug free, experience. We will try to set us up to get to Red’s early in the afternoon the next day. I am looking forward to something good to eat there!
Happy Trails!
Day 16 – Tentsite on Mono Creek to Duck Creek Tentsite – 14.7 miles
Leaving camp this morning we passed a number of hikers flying down the trail. They all had the same goal. Get to the VVR ferry before 9:45 AM. I doubt the last few we saw made it. I was a bit envious.
We made quick work of Silver Pass. It seems, as we travel north, that the passes get easier and the drop offs much less steep. Only one more, Donohue, probably in 3 days.
From Silver Pass we could see our friends, Becka and Simone and their friend 2 Puffs. We have only spent about 5 minutes with 2 Puffs, give us 10 more with her and she will be our friend too.
They were packing up and we caught up with them before they set out. We ended up talking for more than 10 minutes, so 2 Puffs is a friend now.
We hiked near them most of the morning. Their constant cheerful discussions made me smile. We stopped for a break and a snack at Virginia lake. The lake is beautiful, just like the State. I wanted to take a dip, but the wind was blowing and it was a bit chilly.
Meriwether and I set out before them. We had 4 miles to where we planned to camp and I wanted to get there in time to eat before the mozzies arrived. The mozzies really haven’t been that bad. There have been a few times when we decided to press on because they were annoying and once when they covered Meriwether’s backpack and my legs so thickly, it looked like fur. Right now I can count 35 on the bug net part of the tent. How do they know we are in here?
We are within striking distance of Red’s Meadow. It has been about 8 days since laundry, shower, and a good meal. We are hoping to be there by noon so we can get nice and cleaned up before a fabulous dinner.
Happy Trails!
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How two border collies help keep planes safe at a West Virginia airport
Meet Hercules and Ned, two border collies keeping West Virginia’s busiest airport safe while spreading smiles.
- West Virginia offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, rock climbing, and whitewater rafting.
- The New River Gorge is a popular destination for outdoor adventures, with trails like the Endless Wall and opportunities for climbing and rafting.
- Charleston, the state capital, serves as an urban hub with access to outdoor recreation areas and a growing food and brewery scene.
“Experience America” is a five-part series that showcases often-overlooked destinations and experiences in our backyard.
FAYETTEVILLE, West Virginia ― If you had told me in January I’d be going to West Virginia twice this year, I don’t think I would have believed you, but I’m so glad I can now say I have been.
West Virginia is an outdoor adventurer’s paradise, and although even locals don’t always take advantage of the resources right on their doorstep, the state is truly a hidden gem of the great outdoors.
“West Virginia is just often an underrated destination as a whole, and maybe not the first thought for a really high adventure destination,” Lindsey Funk, a public relations assistant at the West Virginia Department of Tourism, told me during my first visit, in May. For that, she said, even West Virginians often go elsewhere.
But the Mountain State is trying to remind residents and visitors alike that it’s a great place for any pace of outdoor adventure.
Hiking and nature
Probably the lowest barrier to entry for the outdoor adventure novice is a hike or a nature walk in West Virginia. The state and national parks, almost all of which are free to access, have nearly endless trails and scenic lookouts.
West Virginia is a year-round destination, with breathtaking foliage in the fall and gorgeous vistas the rest of the year, according to Funk.
“In the state as a whole, hiking is probably one of our most family-friendly activities,” she said.
From the Endless Wall trail in the New River Gorge to the West Virginia Waterfall trail – an official guide to the state’s most beautiful water features – there’s something for everyone. Just remember to bring a sturdy pair of shoes.
On a recent personal trip to the New River Gorge and Charleston this spring, I saw firsthand how stunning the scenery along the Endless Wall trail can be. With scenic vistas throughout the gorge, including a unique perspective on the famous bridge, hiking there is relatively low-intensity and well worth the payoff.
The entire trail is just under 5.5 miles out and back, according to AllTrails, but can easily be shortened after taking in some of the views.
High adventure: Climbing and rafting
For those seeking more adrenaline, West Virginia is also a great destination for rock climbing and whitewater rafting, both of which can be found in the New River Gorge.
During the spring trip, I had a chance to raft on the lower New River, with rapids up to Class V, thanks to heavy rain in the days leading up to the excursion.
With swift-moving water, the entire trip took around an hour and a half to two hours to cover about 14 miles, and the rapids were characterized primarily by big, rolling waves.
The guide on the trip, from ACE Whitewater Rafting, said water levels can significantly change the dynamics of the river, which is why it’s important to always travel with a guide. Whitewater rafting is an extreme sport, but guides make it much safer.
There are numerous outfits throughout the New River Gorge that provide guided whitewater rafting excursions.
Novice climbers may also want a guide or a more experienced buddy if they’re checking out the crags.
For rock climbers of all skill levels, West Virginia and the New River Gorge are also almost heaven.
Crags around Fayetteville offer opportunities for outdoor bouldering, top roping, sport and trad climbing for all skill levels. There are also opportunities for deep water soloing at Summersville Lake State Park during the summer.
I took a trip in July to join Queerclimbtastic, an LGBTQ+ rock climbing retreat held every summer in the New River Gorge, and saw firsthand how great the climbing opportunities are in the state. It was my first time climbing outside after years of indoor-only climbing, and I’m already excited to go back next year and explore other crags closer to home in the meantime.
Bike City, USA
Charleston is West Virginia’s urban gateway to the wilderness, about an hour from the New River Gorge. It’s also home to a professional circuit bike race and is trying to grow its presence as a destination for road and mountain biking.
The state’s capital is also a great place to use as a home base for a trip to West Virginia.
“Charleston’s more of a cityscape for us, a smaller city, but this is a great place for downtown shops and events,” Funk said. “But then, just an hour away, is so many acres of public land and those outdoor adventure options.”
Charleston has a budding food and brewery scene, an extensive farmer’s market and is also home to Mountain Stage, a long-running NPR program that broadcasts two hours of performed-live country music nationwide.
Winter sports
Funk said West Virginia is a year-round state and also has a handful of small ski resorts, which are great for beginners interested in trying out the sport.
“We are a four-season destination,” she said.
Jim and Cara Hocking are full-time travel content creators and said they visited Winter Place, one of West Virginia’s ski resorts, earlier this year with their four kids. Only Cara had skied before, and she said it was a great place for the rest of her family to learn.
“It was exactly what we needed, we had someone that was there that taught us the basics, taught our kids the basics,” Jim told me. “It was a perfect place to have your first skiing experience in my mind.”
How to get there and where to stay
The closest airport will depend on exactly where you’re going in the state, but for both of my trips to the New River Gorge, I flew into Charleston, the state capital of West Virginia. From there, it’s about an hour to an hour and a half drive to Fayetteville, which is a significant gateway to the Gorge’s outdoor recreation areas.
Lodging options in and around Fayetteville include campsites, cabin rentals, traditional hotels, B&Bs and more. Options are also available in Charleston for those looking for a more urban base camp for their travels.
Public transit options are limited, so visitors should plan to rent a car to get around.
The reporter on this story received access from West Virginia’s Department of Tourism. USA TODAY maintains editorial control of content.
Zach Wichter is a travel reporter and writes the Cruising Altitude column for USA TODAY. He is based in New York and you can reach him at zwichter@usatoday.com.
Before I became a yoga teacher, I sat at a desk for eight hours a day, five days a week, and commuted an hour each way. I thought I was taking care of myself by practicing yoga after work, but all that sitting still created tremendous pain in my lower back. I tried taking breaks and standing up every hour or so, but it was only when I added desk yoga poses to my everyday routine that I began to experience relief.
The effects of sitting for hours at a time can incur devastating and different impacts on each of us. The following desk yoga stretches provide relief to the various muscle groups that may otherwise become tight and irritated, including the neck, shoulders, hips, and lower back.
5 Yoga Poses You Can Do at Your Desk
You can practice these desk yoga poses all at once or sneak one or two in between meetings and deadlines.
1. Palms Interlaced Overhead
Why it helps: stretches your chest and shoulders
How to do it:
- Sit tall in your desk chair.
- Interlace your fingers in front of your chest and press your palms away from you.
- Keep them interlaced as you reach your arms overhead. (You’ll probably feel some resistance in your shoulders and neck. Try bending your elbows, moving your arms back a little more, and then straightening your arms again.)
- Gaze straight ahead or look toward the ceiling. Stay here for 5-10 breaths.
- Switch the interlacing of your fingers and repeat.
2. Seated Twist
Why it helps: stretches the muscles along the spine
How to do it:
- Sit tall in your desk chair.
- Lift your arms and hold out straight in front of you, keeping them in line with your shoulders.
- Twist to your right.
- Place your left hand on your outer right knee or thigh and rest your right arm either on the chair arm or chair back.
- Press through your heels, breathe in, and sit tall.
- Breathe out and twist your abdomen, chest, and, lastly, your head more toward the right. Stay here for 5-10 breaths.
- Switch sides.
3. Side Bend
Why it helps: stretches the side body from your hips to your armpits
How to do it:
- Sit tall in your desk chair.
- Take your feet slightly wider than your hips and angle your feet outward.
- Place your right forearm on your right thigh, lean to your right, and extend your left arm over your head alongside your left ear.
- Breathe in and lengthen from your left hip to your fingertips as you open the side body.
- Breathe out and begin to turn your chest toward the ceiling. Stay here for 5-10 breaths.
- Switch sides.
4. Ankle Over Knee
Why it helps: stretches your lower back and glutes
How to do it:
- Sit tall in your desk chair.
- Place your right ankle over your left knee in a figure-4 shape.
- Flex your right foot and press through your left heel as you lean your body toward the floor. (Your chest will be over your legs.) Let your neck relax.
- Stay here for 5-10 breaths.
- Switch sides.
5. Forward Fold
Why it helps: stretches the entire back side of the body
How to do it:
- Sit tall in your desk chair. Ensure your legs are wide enough to allow your body to fit comfortably between them.
- Breathe in and lift your chest, breathe out, and lean your chest forward between your legs.
- Bring your hands to the floor, if they reach, and let your neck relax.
- Stay here for 10-20 breaths.
Patrick Franco is a yoga instructor and director at YogaRenew Teacher Training Online. He leads in-person and online teacher trainings worldwide, with a primary focus on yoga sequencing and the business of yoga.
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Destinations & Things To Do
Jaw-Dropping Adventure Parks Around the World: Which Park Will Top Tourist Attractions This Summer? Explore More
Sunday, July 27, 2025
With the summer season in full swing, the travel world is witnessing an incredible amount of visitors flying in to some of the most breathtaking adventure parks around the globe. Thanks to their heart-stopping roller-coasters and mindblowing zip-line rides, these parks have rapidly evolved into the places to be for both the eager adrenaline junkie and the family crew. With new attractions, high-tech thrills, and bigger-than-ever events, those parks aren’t just drawing big crowds this year, they are redefining the global tourism landscape.
And now, with millions flocking to enjoy the adrenaline-fueled rides, immersive themed lands, and one-of-a-kind experiences, these parks are emerging as the world’s greatest entertainment destinations. From the legendary likes of Disneyland in the U.S. to fresh game-changers such as Ferrari World in Abu Dhabi, the question of which is the world’s hottest adventure park this summer is up for debate. So let’s get big and explore the planet’s most popular adventure parks and what part they play in boosting tourism, as well as the renown parks we’re expecting to see the most crowd traffic this summer.
The rise of Adventure Tourism: A Clear Trend
During the past few years, adventure parks have been growing from small fun fair sites to huge entertainment centres. These are no longer just amusement parks for a day but major travel destinations in themselves. Much of the change that has taken place is directly related to the never-ending evolution of the industry, and the new rides, cutting-edge tech and immersive experiences that appeal to a broad array of patrons.
Adventure parks are booming around the world in 2025. Global tourism is recovering, and many adventure parks are experiencing a surge in visitors just as the summer season hits, according to information from various foreign national tourism boards and global travel companies. As immersive experiences are become more popular many parks are spending large amounts on virtual reality and augmented reality tech, adding an extra dimension to the experience for curious tourists.
And in countries such as the U.S., U.A.E. and Spain, the attention has moved towards developing experiences for a wider audience, including families, single travelers and thrill-seekers too. In light of a growing demand for more interactive experiences and unmatchable thrills, these parks have combined the perfect mix of entertainment, excitement, and immersion that makes them impossible to resist.
Best Adventure Parks to Visit This Summer
As the summer months roll in, and millions around the world begin to plan their vacations; some theme parks will outshine their competition this year. These parks provide an experience like no other with world-class rides, stunning scenes, and unforgettable entertainment. Here is a sampling of some of the most popular parks and the volume of overnights visitors they are projected to draw in this summer.
Disneyland Resort (California, USA)
One of the most instantly recognisable adventure parks on the planet, Disneyland still draws millions of tourists annually. The park is home to larger-than-life experiences like the newer attractions “Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge” and the immersive “Avengers Campus.” This summer, Disneyland anticipates an influx of guests wanting to reconnect with the magic of Disney after years of pandemic-induced entanglements.
Between its touch of nostalgia, state-of-the-art technology and one-of-a-kind experiences, Disneyland remains as popular as ever. Disney parks, remain the ultimate place to take the kids for a day of fun which is not only fun rides but an overall experience.
Universal Studios (Orlando, USA)
Another big name in the adventure park game is Universal Studios in Orlando, Fla. The park, where the hit Wizarding World of Harry Potter is based, is planning to roll out more exciting rides and immersive worlds. The newly opened “Jurassic World VelociCoaster” will likely draw unprecedented crowds this summer with its high velocities and heavy thrills.
The Universal Studios investment in big-screen inspired attractions, has turned it into one of the most popular parks worldwide. With movies and TV shows still driving travel decisions, Universal Studios is one of the go-to destinations for pop culture aficionados, and it boasts a blend of rides and live shows as varied as its offerings in Hollywood and New York.
Ferrari World (Abu Dhabi, UAE)
In the Middle East, Ferrari World in Abu Dhabi is emerging as a top adventure park in the world’s list. The home of the fastest roller coaster in the world “Formula Rossa” Ferrari World is heaven for all adrenaline junkies. With next-generation technology and state-of-the-art racing simulators, the park offers exhilarating and realistic racing experiences for all Ferrari and motorsport fans.
This year, as UAE tourism continues to evolve and international visitors are drawn to the country, Ferrari World is poised for a particularly strong rise in regional and international guests. With the UAE’s ever-growing reputation as a global hot spot for tourism, the attractions of Ferrari World ensure it is a hotspot for those interested in parts fun, parts luxury Middle Eastern caper.
Port Aventura Park (Salou, Spain)
PortAventura, near Barcelona, is one of Europe’s best adventure parks. With a reputation for its variety of rides, from fast-paced roller coasters to zones such as “Mediterrània” and “Far West”, PortoAventura is expected to draw in record numbers of visitors this summer. The park is always evolving, and new rides, like “Shambhala” coaster, keep it relevant.
PortAventura also takes advantage of its location near Barcelona, one of the most popular destinations in Europe. The unique mix of beautiful attractions and unique location facilitate it as a must-see for domestic and overseas travellers seeking an all-rounded travel experience.
Alton Towers (Staffordshire, UK)
When it comes to adventure parks Alton Towers in the UK is still in a league of their own. Famous for its hair-raising roller coasters such as “Nemesis” and “Oblivion,” the park is also increasing its family-friendly attractions and immersive themed environments the suit children. Alton Towers is set to be very busy this summer, especially as since the closure of The Smiler, they have added new facilities and attractions.
A combination of white-knuckle rides and beautiful gardens, it is the perfect stop for one adventurous holiday maker who wants to mix pleasure with excitement. With the UK tourism trade still slowly increasing, and with world class attractions on offer at Alton Towers Resort, it seems clear that this park will remain a strong force in the world of theme parks.
The Economic Toll of the Boom in Adventure Park-Ropes Courses
The increasing number of guests at these leading adventure parks have a profound impact on both local and international tourism economies. With them these parks attract millions visitors annually, and they supply jobs in such fields as hospitality, transport, and amusement. Beyond the economic injection, adventure parks are the floating boat that lifts local tourism, feeding small businesses and the tourists they bring in, who might then opt to discover other parts of the region.
By 2025, adventure park industry around the world is expected to inject billions of dollars into the tourism and leisure sectors as well as sparking growth in other related sectors – like construction. This prosperity is reflected in the growing demand of tour packages, lodging and dining. For some destinations the adventure parks are the backbone of the tourism experience With millions of travelers visiting every year, and in many respects providing the driving force behind the tourism economy.
The Future of Adventure Parks in Worldwide Tourism
Adventure parks are reinventing the future of tourism. The demands of visitors are evolving and they are looking for more immersive experiences and adventure parks are rising to meet it with new technology, themed lands and giants attractions. The appetite for such experiences doesn’t seem to be abating and the race to entice the tourist dollar will only get worse.
Travelers — yourself included — can expect even more exciting things on the horizon from adventure parks. From state-of-the-art virtual reality rides to immersive storytelling experiences, the new generation of theme park attractions will offer a seamless experience between the outside world and fantasy realms, presenting holidaymakers with the ultimate in adventure and entertainment.
2025 is going to be an adventure Since the summer of 2025 attractions will continue to become the face of world tourism, bringing new excitement, new adventures, and spending power upon the world tourism ecosystem.
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