Parks and Recreation | The Zesty Traveler

The New River

by The Zesty Traveler | Jul 30, 2011 | Parks and Recreation

OK, show of hands…how many of you have tried white water rafting? It has been quite awhile for me but I had a blast and hope to give it another shot before this summer is over (lucky for me I have a friend who is a river guide ;)). When I was about 12 we took a family white water rafting trip on The New River in West Virginia. There are a number of different tour companies you can hitch a ride with and to be honest I don’t remember which one we used. (more…)

Kelleys Island, Ohio

by The Zesty Traveler | Jun 19, 2011 | Cities, Parks and Recreation

: Glacial grooves on Kelley’s Island, Ohio.

: Kelley’s Island, Ohio on Lake Erie. View towards Port Clinton.

A visit to Kelleys Island is a nice change of pace from the party scene at Put In Bay. It’s atmosphere is best for families with younger children or couples looking for a relaxing, romantic getaway. The preferred modes of transportation on the island are bicycle or golf cart. There are restaurants, bars, shops, and mini golf all within walking distance of the boat docks (the only way to get to the island is with your own boat or hitching a ride on the ferry). (more…)

Muir Woods National Monument

by The Zesty Traveler | Apr 9, 2011 | Nature and Conservation, Parks and Recreation

: Redwoods circle of life in Muir Woods National Monument.

: Muir Woods along the primary, easy trail. Redwood Creek runs through the park.

: A perspective shot courtesy of my brother so you can see just how large the Redwoods are in Muir Woods.

First off I will let you know that it is $5 per person, not per vehicle, to enter the park (free for kids 15 and under). Worth. Every. Penny. Muir Woods is magnificent. Surrounded by Red Wood trees, the primary trails are paved and fairly level. The paved path includes 3 bridges that cross the Redwood Creek where Coho Salmon come to spawn. There are a couple trails that take you off the beaten path and throughout the surrounding terrain. (more…)

“The Bean” – Chicago

by The Zesty Traveler | Mar 16, 2011 | Cities, Parks and Recreation

You could sit in one spot all day long and watch “The Bean”. It’s reflective surface is ever changing with the sky and the people milling about. Constructed by artist Anish Kapoor and officially named Cloud Gate, the installation located in Chicago’s downtown Millennium Park , was completed 2004-2006. There isn’t much I can say about the piece other than it is unique and a must see. And that is just it, you must see it with your own eyes. (more…)

Gatlinburg, TN

by The Zesty Traveler | Mar 9, 2011 | Cities, Parks and Recreation

: In the heart of Gatlinburg. You’ll probably walk right by and not even notice it!

: Wandering through The Village Shops.

It has been over a decade since I’ve been to Gatlinburg, TN but when I was growing up we vacationed here countless times and I have nothing but fond memories. Gatlinburg is nestled in the Great Smokey Mountains and the most popular form of lodging are the chalets that dot the landscape. There are of course also your expected hotels and motels but in my opinion a chalet is the only way to go. (more…)

Zion National Park – Zion Narrows

by The Zesty Traveler | Dec 12, 2010 | Parks and Recreation

: Virgin River in The Narrows at Zion National Park, Utah.

: Along the Zion Narrows in Zion National Park, Utah.

: The Narrows in Zion National Park.

The Zion Narrows begin at the end so to speak. You’ll ride the park shuttle all the way to the last stop, The Temple of Sinawava. You’ll first find yourself on a relatively wide and well maintained trail that winds along the river bank, simply called Riverside Walk. Riverside Walk comes to an end a mile down the trail at the river where the Narrows begins. (more…)