Travel |

June 9, 2020

The 12 Best Hikes in and Around Seattle

Looking to spend some time in the great outdoors?

An invigorating hike can leave you feeling so rejuvenated, and, if you happen to live in Seattle, there are so many trails and routes available to you. Whether you’re looking for a short but brisk walk, or a full day out in nature, here are the 12 best hikes in and around Seattle.

Rattlesnake Ledge (4 miles)

For a gently-sloping trail that offers up panoramic cliffside views, Rattlesnake Ledge is the hike for you. With its trailhead located just 40 minutes east of Seattle, this path begins at Rattlesnake Ledge, before winding its way through old growth forest.

The path ends at Rattlesnake Ledge itself – a large, natural rocky viewing platform that points east, towards the Cascades.

With most people choosing to stick to the lower ledge on this hike, it would be well worth making your way up to the middle or upper ledge. Not only will you have fewer crowds to deal with, but the views from up here are even more spectacular.

Wallace Falls (5.6 miles)

There are around 12 miles of hiking trails to be found in the Wallace Falls State Park, with the main Wallace Falls trail consisting of a relatively easy walk that takes you along the Wallace River. This is actually one of the most popular hikes in the state, mainly due to the three large waterfalls the trail passes by.

The first fall is encountered after just two miles of walking, with the second being another half mile on. The third and highest tier requires a few steep switchbacks to be traversed, but this is where you will be rewarded with the ultimate view.

The falls are definitely impressive, but don’t be tempted to stray past the guard rails, since the river banks can sometimes be pretty dangerous.

Need more of a challenge?

Add an extra 3.4 miles onto your hike by taking the side trail that leads to the peaceful Wallace Lake.

Mount Si (8 miles)

Mount Si is probably one of the most well-known Seattle hikes, and even features in the opening credits of television show Twin Peaks. However, as popular as it may be, this isn’t an easy hike – in just four miles, you will gain 3,150 feet, making certain parts of this trail quite challenging.

Still, the effort is worthwhile once you reach the peak – on a clear day, you will be able to see well into the distance, with views of Seattle, the Puget Sound region, and dozens of other Cascade peaks.

Since most of this trail is shaded by large trees, it’s a fantastic hike no matter the season. However, care needs to be taken near the peak after a rainfall, since the trail can get pretty slippery.

Mount Ellinor Lower Trailhead (6.2 miles)

If you love the experience that Mount Si offers, but aren’t quite as fond of the crowds of people that can sometimes gather here, then Mount Ellinor is the answer. There are two trailheads to choose from; the lower and upper. Since the upper begins with quite an immediate steep climb, the lower trailhead is often the preferred option, starting with an easier, gradual ascent.

The trail climbs its way through old growth, taking you to multiple ridgeline openings that make for the perfect viewpoints. From here, you will be able to see out across Lake Cushman, and way over to the southeast.

Once you reach the summit, the 360 degree views will take a while to sink in, so take your time enjoying them. If you are lucky, you may come across some of the local mountain goats, who favor this trail when they are in search of salt.

For even more of a workout, you could trace your steps back to where the upper and lower trails meet, and then spend some time exploring the upper trailhead.

Loop Trail, Discovery Park (2.8 miles)

Discovery Park is home to 12 miles of hiking trails, but the Loop Trail is a true gem. The trail was rebuilt in 2014, meaning that it is still in very good condition. It makes its way through meadows and woods, taking you to the highest point in Discovery Park. From here, you will be greeted with a panoramic view of the Puget Sound and the downtown skyline.

In addition to the view, another popular feature of this trail is its opportunities for wildlife sightings. As you pass by the waters, keep an eye out for harbor seals and killer whales, the latter being more rare but extremely thrilling.

If you are taking this trail in the late summer, treat yourself to a few of the wild blackberry brambles that line sections of the path. They make for a sweet and juicy walking snack, making the hike even more enjoyable.

If you time your visit right, an off-trail expedition to the West Point Lighthouse at sunset is always a beauty. The beach here is worth exploring too – this is the beach where two of the park’s trails meet.

Coal Creek Trail (6 miles)

The Coal Creek Trail is simply exquisite, so long as you manage to stay on-track. This trail is part of a much larger trail network in the foothills of the Cascade Range, making a good map a must. However, this also makes it easy to extend your walk if you wish, with the 1.3 mile side trail leading to 119th Avenue being especially popular.

With this trail being relatively flat most of the way, it makes for an enjoyable day trip, giving you the opportunity to really take in the colorful wildflowers, waving ferns and mossy boulders.

The trail gets its name from the coal mining that used to take place in this area. You will be able to see remnants of this as you make your way along the path – the looming maple and cedar trees cluster around old mine shafts from the late 1800s. Although most of this has now been reforested, there are still snippets of the past dotted throughout the trail to take you back in time.

Poo-Poo Point (7.4 miles)

Located on Tiger Mountain, the Poo-Poo Point trail provides plenty of giggles with its name, but was actually named after the whistling sound that loggers working on the mountain could hear when a steam train was going by.

If you are into parasailing, then you’ve probably already heard of Poo-Poo Point, with this being a popular parasailing launching spot.

However, even if you aren’t taken by the idea of jumping off a tall mountain, the trail still offers such a rewarding experience, while enabling you to keep both feet on the ground!

The trail ascends just under 2000 feet, and there are several sections here that are pretty steep. The climb is worth it once you reach the top, with views of Lake Sammamish and Mount Rainier to enjoy.

Green River Trail (19 miles)

While there are some breathtaking hiking trails just outside of Seattle, you sometimes need something a little more urban. This is where the Green River Trail comes in – almost 20 miles of paved pathway that runs alongside the river in one of the most industrial parts of South Seattle.

This is actually one of the longest contiguous trails in the region, and it even has the potential to expand in the future, with plans proposed to extend it by another 10 miles.

The Green River Trail is flat and easy, taking you back and forth across Seattle’s waterways, and giving you a peak into the city’s various neighborhoods and green belts. Side hikes are easy – step off the trail to explore any intriguing city streets you see, or spend some time strolling around one of the many city parks.

Snow Lake (7.2 miles)

Snow Lake is the most-visited lake in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, and it is easy to see why. Not only is this spot easy to access, but the sapphire-blue lake is an amazing sight, no matter the time of year.

The ascent is gradual for most of the way, with just a couple of tougher sections. The views continue to improve as you make your way along, culminating in a jaw-dropping panorama of the sheer, polished rocks of Chair Peak, complete with its waterfall ribbons and sheltered coves.

If you would like to push yourself even more, there are a number of side trails that you can take from here. Whether you want to explore the Middle Fork Snoqualmie Valley or more mountain lakes, you will come across numerous spur trails that offer even more adventures.

Twin Falls (3.6 miles)

If you’re looking for a hike that isn’t too strenuous, but still offers a rewarding experience, then Twin Falls is it. This is a relatively flat trail that only has a few incline sections, making it a great one for beginners, as well as for families.

Halfway through your hike, at the 1.3 mile mark, will be the highlight of your day. This is where you will find two gorgeous waterfalls that tumble down a 500 foot ascent. There is a bridge that runs across the pools underneath the falls, making for the perfect photo opportunity.

The one downside to Twin Falls is that the trail is often susceptible to mudslides and fallen trees. Fortunately, the Washington Trails Association keeps their Twin Falls page up-to-date with the latest conditions.

Mailbox Peak (9.4 miles)

Mailbox Peak is a popular spot with mountaineers who are training to climb Mount Rainier, so this should give you some idea of how challenging the trail is. This thigh-burning walk starts to climb pretty early on, with switchback after switchback to traverse.

However, once you reach the top, you will be looking out over many of the other peaks in the area, as well as the magnificent Mount Rainier in front of you.

Many hikers wonder about the trail’s unusual name, until they reach the peak. This is where you will find the mountain’s namesake mailbox, which was brought here by an over-ambitious mail carrier in the 60’s. The mailbox is decorated with different trinkets and stickers from hikers who have reached this point in the past, so feel free to add on your own little contribution.

Evans Creek Preserve (4.2 miles)

The Evans Creek Preserve is a farmstead-turned-nature preserve that sprawls out for 179 acres. The volunteer-built trail system here has been steadily expanding in recent years, to the point where it now offers an incredible hike.

One of the highlights of this trail is the way in which it takes you through so many different habitats. From wetlands to meadows to forests, the rich and diverse ecosystems found here mean that you will also encounter a variety of different wildlife species.

There are a number of animals that call this nature preserve home, including deer, hawks, beavers, and black bears. The trail is especially popular in the mornings, when birdwatchers flock to the preserve to make the most of its four bird-viewing platforms.

Of course, with the abundance in wildlife comes the danger posed by some creatures, such as the black bear. If you walk this trail, you may want to consider bringing some pepper spray with you, and making plenty of noise as you go along.

The Seattle area is home to some truly legendary trails, meaning that locals never need to go far to experience the intense beauty of mother nature. Whether you’re planning a leisurely Sunday walk with your family, or want to add some diversity to your fitness regime, these 12 hikes will have you covered.

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August 7, 2017

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Enjoy These Outdoor Venues in Taiwan

While Taiwan may be most famous for its bustling cities and historic landmarks, it is also home to some incredible outdoor venues. From the Yangmingshan National Park to the tea-growing area of Maokong, these spots each showcase a unique side to the country.

Aday Ago / Shutterstock.com

Yangmingshan National Park
One of the most popular of Taiwan’s nine national parks, the Yangmingshan National Park can be found in between Taipei and New Taipei City, making it easy to access for those visiting the capital. The park is famous for its incredible natural beauty, as well as its rich biodiversity, and boasts everything from cherry blossoms to hot springs to hiking trails, and is even home to the Seven Star Mountain, which is the tallest dormant volcano in the country.

MAX SAYPLAY / Shutterstock.com

Sun Moon Lake
Located in the foothills of Taiwan’s Central Mountain Range, Sun Moon Lake is the largest body of water in the country, and has also become quite the tourist attraction. The lake itself surrounds a small island called Lalu, with the east side of the lake resembling the sun, and the west side resembling the moon, which is how the lake acquired its name. There are several festivals held here throughout the year, and these always draw in the crowds, but, at other times, the lake is still worth visiting for its astounding natural beauty. The area around the lake is filled with criss-crossing hiking trails, making this the perfect spot for some outdoor adventure.

Tea and food overlooking Maokong hills

Maokong
Located near to the capital city, Maokong used to be the largest tea growing area in Taipei, and is a great place to go to learn more about the country’s tea culture. The area still produces tea, although not to the extent that it used to, and is famous for its tieguanyin tea, which can be sampled at one of the many local restaurants that you will find here. The area also features many intertwining footpaths and hiking trails, which visitors can use to explore the scenery, and, if you are visiting on a clear day, you will also be able to enjoy a stunning view of the entire city of Taipei.

ARTRAN / Shutterstock.com

Yehliu Geopark
Yehliu is another area that can easily be visited from Taipei, and its geopark is an experience that should not be missed. The landscape here was created completely naturally, through a combination of wind and waves, as well as from the unique layer of the earth’s crust that rises up from beneath the ocean. With honeycomb formations, rocks that look like miniature volcanoes, and wave-cut platforms that jut out over the water, the landscape that you will see here is unlike anything that you will see elsewhere on the planet. There is only one trail to follow within the geopark, and this stretches out for 1.7 kilometres, but, since it is the only one here, it can get quite crowded, so try to plan your visit out of peak hours.

Many visitors to Taiwan do not realize just how rich the country is in nature and unique geological features. From the rock formations of the Yehliu Geopark to the hiking trails that surround the Sun Moon Lake, these outdoor venues are guaranteed to impress.

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June 14, 2017

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Mountains with Great Scenic Views in the Philippines

Mt Batulao, Philippines

With over 7000 mountainous islands within the Philippine archipelago, the actual number of mountains in the country can only be vaguely guessed at. Nevertheless, for those who want to experience some of the most stunning views in the Philippines, these are the mountains that you need to climb.

Mt. Batulao
Located just an hour from Manila, Mt. Batulao rises 811 meters above sea level, and is a great mountain for beginner climbers to tackle. As you start your climb, you will be able to see the coastal towns of Nasugbu and Tagaytay, with the perspective changing as you ascend. It takes between two to three hours to reach the summit, and, once you do, you will be rewarded with a spectacular view of the Balayan Bay, as well as its twelve surrounding peaks.

Mt. Mariveles
In addition to being the battlefield site at which American and Filipino soldiers fought Japanese invaders in the 1940’s, Mt. Mariveles also boasts incredibly scenic views from its summit. This is quite a challenging climb, and takes between two to three hours, but the effort is most definitely worth it, and there is a river halfway up where you can cool off. Once you reach the summit, you will be able to see everything from the South China Sea to the Corregidor Islands and Mt. Pico de Loro to the beaches of Bataan, but be sure to wrap up warm as it can be quite windy up here.

Mt. Tibig
Mt. Tibig only rises 563 meters above sea level, and is actually a sub-mountain of Mt. Banoi. Nevertheless, this is still quite a challenging climb, but the two hour hike to the summit is more than worth it, for its views of the Verde Island Passage, Batangas, and the green mountains that surround the region. For those who want to spend the night at the summit and watch the views transform with the changing light of day, there is a campsite at the top which is large enough for ten tents.

Mt. Pico de Loro
Mt. Pico de Loro was named the Parrot’s Beak by Spanish colonizers in the 1500’s, due to its fascinating rock formations. While it takes five hours to reach the summit, which is 664 meters above sea level, the climb itself is not too challenging, and is one that is suitable for beginners to attempt. There is a monolith situated at the top of the mountain, which you can climb with ropes, and, once you reach the top of this, you will be able to enjoy a diverse bird’s eye view that features everything from forests and volcanoes to beaches and lakes.

The Philippines is home to so much natural beauty, and one of the best ways to take this in is by hiking to the top of some of the country’s most gorgeous mountains. From the coastal views of Mt. Batulao to the mountainous surroundings of Mt. Tibig, the scenery that you will see from these mountains will be some of the most inspiring that you have ever seen.

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April 17, 2017

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Fall in Love with the Scenery at Big Cottonwood Canyon

donut falls

Located in the Wasatch Range, Big Cottonwood Canyon is just 12 miles from Salt Lake City, and consists of 15 miles of incredible natural beauty. From hidden waterfalls to secluded caves, it is all-too-easy to fall in love with the incredible scenery that surrounds you at Big Cottonwood Canyon.

Donut Falls Hiking Trail
The Donut Falls hiking trail is one that is extremely popular with families, as it makes for the perfect introduction when it comes to taking children out on their first hike. Being just a three and a half mile round trip, this is an easy trail, especially since the path is wide with only a slight gain in elevation.

Desolation Lake
Desolation Lake features alpine terrain at its finest, with everything from pine and aspen trees to wildflowers to lush, open meadows and, of course, a serene lake. The only way to access the lake is by a hiking trail, but this is a well-maintained one, making the journey easy. Once at the lake, there is so much nature to explore, so be sure to bring along a few snacks, so that you can happily spend a few hours here.

Ledgemere Cave
Ledgemere Cave is located right at the Ledgemere Picnic Area, meaning that no hiking is needed to access it. However, the entrance to the cave is quite small, which is why many people tend to miss it. Once inside, the cave is large enough for an adult to stand up in, with a natural path that runs for about 75 yards before plunging into complete darkness, meaning that you will need to bring along a flashlight if you want to explore the whole cave.

Silver Lake
Located right at the top of Big Cottonwood Canyon, at the Brighton Ski Resort, Silver Lake is a beautiful place for a leisurely stroll. There is a boardwalk around the lake that is perfect for this, and you are likely to also spot some native wildlife, such as the moose that live here.

Wasatch Crest Trail
The Wasatch Crest Trail is a mountain biking trail that is actually a 20 mile section of the Great Western Trail, which runs 3000 miles from Canada all the way to Mexico. This is a trail that really captures the essence of mountain biking, and, when you can tear your eyes away from the track in front of you, you will be rewarded with panoramic views of the magnificent alpine architecture that your surroundings boast.

The S-Curves
The S-Curves are a section of south-facing cliffs that are a popular rock climbing spot. There are a number of bolted routes to choose from here, each of which will provide you with one-of-a-kind views of Big Cottonwood Canyon. Within the S-Curves is an area known as The Piles, which is a small, scenic canyon that has a gurgling stream running through it, making it the perfect area to explore on a scorching hot day.

There are so many different parts to Big Cottonwood Canyon that are worth exploring, from the hiking trails meandering through the wilderness to the vast, alpine lakes. With so much natural beauty all around you, this is an area that you are bound to want to return to, time and time again.

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January 20, 2017

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Top Hiking Trails of California

California is filled with natural beauty, and one of the best ways to truly immerse yourself in this is by making the most of the many hiking trails that criss-cross throughout the Golden State. From the grueling hike to the top of Mt. Baldy to the spectacular landscapes surrounding Eagle Lake, these are some of the top hiking trails that California has to offer.

Wonder View Trail, Los Angeles
The Hollywood Sign is an iconic part of Los Angeles, and while there are a few different hiking trails that will take you up to it, the Wonder View Trail is the most scenic. This is the least-traveled trail up to the sign, and offers spectacular views out over Los Angeles, while taking you to two different peaks. The trail is a three mile round trip, and ascends 875 feet, so while it may be slightly challenging for some, it is one that many can attempt.

Eagle Lake, Lassen County
The trail to sparkling Eagle Lake begins in Emerald Bay State Park, and features a long stretch of well-worn rock stairs that takes you up to Eagle Falls. After climbing for another mile and a half, you will reach Eagle Lake, and, after making your way over to its west side, will be greeted with one of the finest views in the state.

Lady Bird Johnson Trail, Redwood National Park
While there may be several different hiking trails to be found in the Redwood National Park, the Lady Bird Johnson Trail is short and level, making it one of the most popular trails in the park. This trail showcases the park’s towering redwood trees, which are famous for being amongst the tallest in the world.

Ski Hut Trail, Mt. Baldy, San Bernardino County
California is home to many great peaks, but Mt. Baldy is one of its finest. For those who do not want a grueling hike, there is a tram that takes you a few miles from the summit, but for those who want to really challenge themselves, the Ski Hut Trail is perfect for this. While this trail is only eight miles long, it takes you up over 4000 feet in elevation, making it quite the grueling hike. Nevertheless, the view from the summit, as well as the sense of accomplishment that you will feel, makes it all totally worthwhile.

Telescope Peak, Death Valley
For those who want an adventure-filled day hike, the trail up to Telescope Peak, which is just outside of Death Valley, is ideal. The trail is a 14 mile round trip, and ascends 3000 feet, taking you to the top of one of the most prominent mountains in California, from where you will be able to see all the way down to Badwater Basin, the lowest point in the United States.

No matter what your skill level may be, you can be sure that there are hiking trails in California that are absolutely perfect for you. Whether you want a short and gentle walk, or a steep, uphill climb, these hiking trails are amongst the very best in the state.

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January 13, 2017

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Exploring the Napali Coast

A stunning coastal range on the Hawaiian island of Kauai, the Napali Coast stretches out for fifteen miles, and offers up some of the best views in all of the state. Located on the island’s North Shore, this traffic-free stretch of land is not the easiest to access, which only makes it even more of a Hawaiian hidden gem.

Kalalau Trail
There is only one way to access the Napali Coast by land, and this is by taking the 11 mile long Kalalau Trail. The trail begins at Kee Beach and crosses five different valleys before ending up at Kalalau Beach on the Napali Coast. As beautiful as the journey may be, this is known for being one of the most challenging hikes on the island, with several narrow sections, as well as muddy topsoil that makes it difficult to establish a firm grip on the ground. The hike takes a full day one way, which is why many hikers choose to break their journey up and camp at Hanakoa Beach, turning the trip into a three day adventure. In addition to being an experienced hiker, you need to also ensure that you are able to deal with heights before attempting this trail, as you will find many sections that travel along the edge of ultra steep cliffs, which, while offering panoramic views, will definitely make your stomach turn if you are afraid of big drops.

Boat Tours
If you would like to explore the Napali Coast without hiking, then a boat tour is your best option, as there are multiple types to choose from. These will all usually set off from Port Allen on the west coast of the island, and, whether you opt for a sea kayak, a rigid hull inflatable, or a luxury sailing catamaran, the views that you will see make the trip well worthwhile. In addition to exploring the coast, a boat tour will also take you to see the many sea caves, waterfalls, and other natural features that the area boasts, meaning that even if you have already hiked to the coast before, a boat tour is still worth taking.

Helicopter Tour
The landscape surrounding the Napali Coast is even more impressive when viewed from above, which is why helicopter tours are extremely popular on Kauai. These tours fly through some of the island’s most inaccessible areas, and, in addition to taking in all of the hidden valleys around the Napali Coast, you will also be able to see many other natural landmarks, including the famous Waimea Canyon.

Driving
Even if you cannot drive to the Napali Coast itself, there are still multiple spots where you can drive to and enjoy spectacular views of the coast. Polihale Beach and Kee Beach offer gorgeous views down to the coast, while the Kalalau Overlook and the Pu’u O Kila both overlook the extraordinarily beautiful Kalalau Valley.

With dramatic cliffs, golden beaches and historic archaeological sites, the Napali Coast is always a joy to explore. Whether this is your first time visiting Kauai, or you are returning to the coast after previous visits, this is a part of Hawaii that will never fail to inspire and captivate you.

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November 25, 2016

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Exploring South Australia

While it may be most known for being Australia’s food and wine capital, South Australia is a land of dreamy desert-scapes, rugged coastlines, some of the oldest mountains on the planet, and islands that are abundant with wildlife. From cosmopolitan cities to lush, sprawling vineyards, these are some of South Australia’s most popular destinations.

Barossa Valley

Barossa Valley
Originally settled by the Germans in the 1840s, Barossa Valley still retains its German ambiance, and is also famous all over the world for being the oldest wine producing region in the country, as well as one of the finest wine producing regions overall. Winery tours are the most popular activity here, with over 150 wineries, as well as 80 cellar doors, to choose from. A large number of the wineries also have their own restaurants on site, where they make use of the freshest of local produce to cook up innovative and seasonal meals.

Port Augusta
A three and a half hour drive from Adelaide, Port Augusta is often referred to as the crossroad of South Australia, as the roads from here travel all across the region. This area is steeped in history, from the Wadlata Outback Centre, which will take you back to the time when dinosaurs roamed the land, to the Homestead Park Pioneer Museum, which is over 130 years old. For those who want to learn more about the flora and fauna of South Australia’s outback, the Australian Arid Lands Botanic Gardens is the place to go, showcasing a range of drought-resistant plants.

Kangaroo Island, Australia

Kangaroo Island
The third largest island in Australia, Kangaroo Island is, as you would expect from the name, packed with kangaroos, as well as many other native animals, from seals to koalas to penguins. In addition to the wildlife, the island is also home to the Flinders Chase National Park, as well as the Kangaroo Island Farm Gate and Cellar Door Trail, which is a must-do walk for food enthusiasts, as it showcases the incredible fresh foods that are grown in this unspoiled landscape.

Heysen Trail
South Australia is home to endless walking trails, but the Heysen Trail is considered to be one of the best of them all. Stretching out for 1200 kilometers, those who want to really explore South Australia will be able to take in all of its natural diversity from the trail, while those who are not such avid walkers can easily hike just a small section instead. The trail passes by everything from the Kuitpo forest plantations to the gorges of the Flinders Desert to the soaring peaks of Mount Lofty, and even the Barossa Valley.

South Australia is a vast region, and there are many different ways in which you can explore it. Whether you spend your days eating and drinking your way around the Barossa Valley, or don your hiking boots and walk the Heysen Trail, South Australia is the perfect destination for those who want to spend some time off the beaten track and appreciate some of the country’s hidden gems.

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July 22, 2016

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Taal Lake and Volcano Island Tours

Taal Lake and Volcano Island

Situated on the Philippine island of Luzon, in the province of Batangas, Taal Lake is a haven of greenery and serenity, and is actually a crater lake that fills the caldera of a prehistoric volcano. After this caldera was formed around 500,000 years ago, the subsequent volcanic eruptions later created another volcanic island within Taal Lake itself, and was named Volcano Island. While Taal Volcano may be the smallest active volcano in the world, its unique location, being situated on an island that is within a lake that is on another island, makes it quite the geological wonder, attracting thousands of visitors each and every year.

Filipino Travel Center
The Filipino Travel Center offers private tours of Volcano Island, picking up guests from Metro Manila in a luxury minibus before making the two-hour journey to Tagaytay Ridge. Here, you will be able to enjoy spectacular panoramic views of Taal Lake, Taal Island and Mount Macolod, before heading down to the shores of the lake to hop on to a motorized outrigger. The 30-minute boat ride takes you to the Volcano Island village of Talisay, and, from here, you will begin your trek up towards the volcano’s rim. The hike itself lasts for about 45 minutes and is considered to be one of the easiest hikes in the Philippines, making it accessible to those of all abilities. After taking in your stunning views of Crater Lake and its surroundings, you will then head back to the mainland, stopping off at the Taal Yacht Club for a watersports session before being driven back to Metro Manila.

GetYourGuide
GetYourGuide is a company that offers an eight-hour adventure across Taal Lake and Volcano Island. Just like the tour mentioned above from the Filipino Travel Center, you will be driven from Manila to Tagaytay City, after which you will board a boat and be taken for a hike up the volcano. By the sulfuric lake, there are a number of rental companies where you can rent a kayak, banana boat or paraw, to see the caldera from a unique perspective. For those who want even more of an unforgettable experience, GetYourGuide also gives their guests the opportunity to enjoy a horseback ride among Taal’s basalt rocks, and you can even ride all the way up the trail to the top of the volcano if you so desire. In addition to seeing the lake and the volcano, this tour also includes a visit to the Caleruega Church, the Palace in the Sky park, which was built for president Marcos, and a mushroom burger factory that is located in Tagaytay City.

No matter which tour you opt for, you will still be able to witness the splendid views from Volcano Island, which are considered to be some of the most scenic in the Philippines. The natural surroundings here are filled with layers of complexity that have built up over thousands of years, and this is most definitely a trip worth taking if you are ever in Manila, or elsewhere in the Philippines.

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July 18, 2016

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Daytrips from Manila

The Philippines is made up of over 7000 different islands, but with Manila being the capital of the country, this pulsating metropolis is usually where a large number of tourists begin their visit to the Philippines. Fortunately, for those who want to take in more of the country than what the capital can offer, there are several day trips from Manila that you can take, giving you the opportunity to deeper explore the country’s history, culture and natural beauty.

Tagaytay

Tagaytay
With its cool climate and vibrant food scene, the holiday town of Tagaytay, which lies south of Manila, has always been popular with both locals and tourists. The highest point of the Cavite province, Tagaytay enjoys spectacular views of the famous Taal Lake, as well as the Taal Volcano, which is the smallest active volcano in the world. This volcanic island is set in the middle of Taal Lake, and, in addition to being easy to access, only requires 45 minutes for a hike up to the crater, making this a popular activity here.

Zambales

Zambales
Easily accessed from Metro Manila, Zambales is a destination that is able to offer a little of just about everything. From its 107 miles of pure untainted beaches to pristine forest landscapes to communities that still practice traditional methods of living, this is a great spot to soak up some nature and culture. With 60% of the region covered in mountains, hiking is always a popular activity, especially with the prospect of being able to meet the local Aeta community. For those looking to get in some surfing, Crystal Beach is a must-visit spot, with gentle waves, perfect for a beginner, and soft pillows of sand to fall on.

Angono
Nicknamed the Art Capital of the Philippines, Angono is located just 30 kilometers from Manila. The area is jam-packed with a huge array of art galleries, and is also home to some of the oldest rock art in the country, dating all the way back to 3000 B.C. Once you have done a few gallery visits, take a stroll down Dona Aurora, also known as the Art Gallery on the Streets, where you will encounter even more local artwork.

Corregidor Island

Corregidor Island
Just a one-hour ferry ride from Manila lies Corregidor Island, a spot that any history buffs should definitely take the time to visit. From fort ruins to historic chapels to war memorials, a visit to Corregidor Island almost feels like taking a journey back through time. There are many day trip tours that you can sign up to, ensuring that you do not miss out on any of the most important sights, and giving you the opportunity to truly learn more about the country’s history.

The Philippines is a country that is so incredibly diverse, and while a visit to Manila always proves to be action-packed, these day trips offer a much different experience. From the colorful local art of Angono to the eerie history of Corregidor Island, these destinations enable you to see the country in a completely different light.

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June 27, 2016

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Planning Your British Columbia Hiking Trip

West Coast Trail, British Columbia

With over 850 parks and protected areas all around British Columbia, there are hundreds of different hiking trails to be found. While day hikes are always enjoyable, planning your trip around a longer hike will not only give you a much greater sense of accomplishment when completed, but will also enable you to see more of the stunning natural beauty that British Columbia has to offer.

Sunshine Coast Trail
Stretching out for 180 kilometers through alpine meadows and around sparkling lakes, the Sunshine Coast Trail is the longest hut-to-hut trail in Canada and takes around a week to ten days to complete. While it is possible to camp along the way, the huts, along with B&Bs, provide plenty of other options for those who do not wish to camp, and there are even a few hotels to be found around Powell River. From standing above the clouds at the Tin Hat Mountain Summit to the crystal clear waters of Elk Lake, the Sunshine Coast Trail is not as difficult as some of the other longer hikes in British Columbia, but definitely provides some truly unforgettable moments.

West Coast Trail
Found on southern Vancouver Island, the world-famous West Coast Trail attracts hikers from all over the globe and is a trail that would be well worth planning a hiking trip for. Open from May to September, the West Coast Trail is 75 kilometers long and usually takes somewhere between five to seven days to complete. This is a trail for the more experienced hikers out there, as there are a number of challenging areas, from climbing ladders and steep slopes, using cable cars and wading through strong rivers. Weather conditions here are also extremely unpredictable, but for those hikers that do decide to embark upon this adventure, they will be rewarded with extraordinary sights of Canada’s natural wilderness, and will experience a part of the world that has only been seen by the most intrepid of travelers.

Mt. Edziza Plateau Traverse
Situated in northern British Columbia, the Mt. Edziza Plateau Traverse is an extremely challenging hike, and really gives hikers the opportunity to be at one with nature. Stretching out for about 75 kilometers, this trail takes around a week to ten days to complete and includes hiking to the top of a volcano. While hikers may not spot another human being for days, they will spot some of British Columbia’s magnificent native wildlife, from caribou trotting up a glacier to the bears and the wolves, although these animals are also a danger that hikers need to be aware of. While some may say that the Grand Canyon offers a sense of wonder that nowhere else can, those who have hiked the Mt. Edziza Plateau Traverse are all likely to disagree, as this trail always manages to provide the trip of a lifetime.

British Columbia is home to some of the most picturesque views in the world, and hiking through these is the best way to truly explore them. From the sandy beaches of the West Coast Trail to the dense forests of the Sunshine Coast Trail, these trails are all worth planning a hiking trip around.