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Activities Europe Hiking Iceland Natural Stone Rural Sightseeing

The Dimmuborgir Lava Fields of Iceland

Dimmuborgir is one of Iceland’s most well-known tourist attractions.  The interesting formations, the walkable paths, the close proximity between the lava fields, Lake Mývatn, and the Hverfjall volcanic crater, and the fact that it was featured prominently as part of the lands beyond the wall in Season 3 of Game of Thrones make it a must see destination if you ever find yourself in the northern part of the country.

The Dimmuborgir Lava Fields of Iceland
Standing in front of a formation that looked to me like a sleeping troll.
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Activities Creek Hiking Natural Stone New York Preserve Rural Sightseeing United States

The Vlomankill Trail at DEC’s Five Rivers in Upstate New York

We’ve been having some really beautiful and warm fall days this year here in Upstate New York.  As a person who tends to hibernate all winter, this extension of summer, as my husband calls it, is allowing us a bit more time to wear shorts and tromp through the woods.  We spent a beautiful morning hiking along the Vlomankill Trail at Five Rivers and have some pictures to prove it!

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Activities Hiking Natural Stone Rural Sightseeing United States Virginia

A Look at Virginia’s Natural Bridge State Park

Natural Bridge State Park in Virginia is centered around a giant and beautiful natural bridge limestone landform that has been carved out by Cedar Creek over millions of years.  This was once considered one of the great natural wonders of the Americas, and one that tourists have flocked to for centuries.  We visited Virginia’s newest state park on our drive up north from the Carolinas.  I can honestly say that in real life, it really is so much more impressive than any picture can ever convey. I mean, look at those tiny trees up top!

A Look at Virginia's Natural Bridge State Park

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Activities Archaeology Architecture Arizona Desert National Park Native American Natural Stone Prehistoric Ruins Rural Sightseeing Trees United States

The Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona

When traveling through the southwest, one of my favorite national parks by far was the Petrified Forest National Park.  This park located in northeastern Arizona is naturally and culturally significant and quite beautiful.  This area is strewn with colorful fossilized logs that date back to the Late Triassic Period.  About 2,000 years ago, humans settled in and built little communities here.  

The Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona
Petroglyphs etched into rock faces gives visitors a glimpse of the culture of the prehistoric peoples that lived here before.

Meandering trails take you throughout the park, giving you glimpses of trees that look like works of art and pueblos from hundreds to thousands of years ago show you how these prehistoric people lived. There’s even one home that looks like it was made from precious stones, which it kind of is.

The Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona
Welcome to one of my favorite national parks!