Backpacking – Mark's Travel Journal

Exploring the Natural Wonders of Antarctica during Spring

Antarctica is a continent shrouded in mystery. Therefore, this continent’s pristine beauty can be appreciated and experienced in person. And even though the journey to this frozen land can be difficult and take a long time, the rewards are worth it. So, if you are a cold-weather lover and have visited several skiing destinations, you might long for a new and distinctive adventure. This is where a trip to Antarctica this spring steps in as a good idea. Exploring the natural wonders of Antarctica will be your opportunity to witness untouched nature at its finest.

Natural wonders of Antarctica not to miss this spring

Before we delve into the beauty of Antarctica during the spring season, we should focus on the importance of proper planning and preparation for your trip. This is particularly true when traveling to a remote, challenging destination like Antarctica.

We asked the professionals behind Zippy Shell of Greater Philadelphia for moving and storage advice when traveling long distances. They mentioned that making sure your possessions are secure and safe throughout transportation is vital. Therefore, to have a successful and pleasurable journey to Antarctica, where the weather can be harsh and unexpected, it is crucial to take the time to plan ahead and correctly pack your kit.

And now that you’ve taken your notes, it’s time to investigate the various beauties this amazing continent offers. With this in mind, let’s see what natural wonders of Antarctica one shouldn’t miss.

Wildlife from up close

Penguins

One of Antarctica’s biggest springtime appeals is the opportunity to observe the variety of species on the continent up close. Penguins are, without a doubt, the stars of the show. Even though the views in European winter villages are a treat for the eyes, seeing these black and white little ones is a feast for the eyes and exploring souls.

Fortunately, the best time to see them doing their things is precisely springtime, as spring is the period these charismatic birds start to breed. Thus, you may visit the fantastic sight of tens of thousands of penguins huddling to protect their eggs and newly hatched young from the cold.

An adult penguin with a baby penguin on an iceberg as one of the natural wonders of Antarctica. — The endearing birds are truly natural wonders of Antarctica.

This continent is home to various species of penguins, among the most popular being:

Adelie
Gento
Chinstrap penguins

Each species has distinctive traits and ways of acting, and observing their interactions is genuinely a fascinating experience. For instance, Adelie penguins are famous for their eccentric personalities and tendency to steal rocks from one another’s nests. On the other hand, chinstrap penguins have a characteristic band of black feathers that gives the impression that they are wearing a helmet.

Seals and whales

In addition to penguins, you can see several other species in your Antarctica exploration. For instance, you might be able to see elephant seals, Weddell seals, and leopard seals resting and relaxing on the ice.

Two seals lying on an iceberg in Antarctica during spring. — Seals are also quite frequently seen on the icebergs of Antarctica

If you’re fortunate, you might even catch a glimpse of a humpback whale or a killer whale. During springtime, these majestic creatures travel to Antarctica to feed on the abundant krill in the waters surrounding the continent. Therefore, if spring is your choice of time for exploring the natural wonders of Antarctica, you will be at the right time at the right place.

Unique weather patterns

In addition to this continent’s abundant wildlife, seeing Antarctica’s natural treasures in the spring also means getting a chance to observe the continent’s distinctive weather patterns. In Antarctica, the sun never sets in the summer, so the good news is that there are more daytime hours for exploring. This gives people plenty of chances to see the unique natural phenomena that occur on the continent, like the stunning display of Aurora Australis, better known as the Southern Lights.

Aurora Borealis above snowy mountains as one of the natural wonders of Antarctica. — Dancing lights in the night sky: the stunning beauty of Aurora Borealis as one of the natural wonders of Antarctica.

All things considered, once you look at the overall picture, Antarctica’s landscape is truly remarkable and out worldly. The towering icebergs, the dramatic mountains, crystal clear ice formations, you name it! So, suppose you’re serious about visiting. In that case, The Antarctic Peninsula is one of the most popular destinations for nature and wildlife lovers and is best known for its abundant wildlife and spectacular scenery. Moreover, this location is also home to a few research stations where experts examine anything from penguin behavior to climate change.

Ultimately, one of the most unforgettable experiences in Antarctica during spring is the chance to take a polar plunge. Taking a polar plunge involves jumping into the icy waters surrounding the continent, which can be as cold as -2°C (28°F). This could be a shock to your system, but it’s also an exhilarating experience that will leave you feeling fresh and alive.

Essentials for your trip

So, if you’ve mastered your mountaineering skills and wish to explore something more challenging, like visiting Antarctica during spring, preparing well and knowing what to expect is essential. Primarily, choosing a trustworthy tour operator who is dedicated to ethical and ecological tourism practices is crucial. By this, we mean minimizing the impact on the environment and wildlife and ensuring that visitors leave no trace of their visit.

Secondly, packing the right gear for the trip is also essential. This includes warm clothing, waterproof and windproof outerwear, and sturdy footwear with good traction. The sun can be pretty intense on this side of the globe. Therefore sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are also important.

Finally, it’s important to remember that Antarctica is a place of extremes. Thus, the weather can be unpredictable. While spring offers milder temperatures and longer daylight hours, it’s still important to be prepared for anything. Being flexible is the key, and it’s always a good idea to have a backup plan in case weather conditions prevent certain activities from taking place.

Final words on the natural wonders of Antarctica

In conclusion, exploring the natural wonders of Antarctica during spring is a unique experience everyone who loves nature should have on their bucket list. Nothing indeed compares to the magic of this frozen continent, whether it be the beautiful penguins or the breathtaking vistas. Therefore, visiting Antarctica this spring can be your opportunity to escape the rush of modern life and establish a profoundly transforming connection with nature.

Top 5 Lake Vacations to Take in Alaska

Featured1 Comment

A starry night as seen in northern areas like Alaska.

If you want to take a vacation that will leave you with unforgettable memories and nourish your soul with pristine and gorgeous nature, then Alaska should be the first place on your list. And some of the biggest outdoor attractions in Alaska are its stunning lakes. Alaska is home to over 3 million lakes. Three thousand of those have names, while others are considered to be wild bodies. The panoramas that the lakes of Alaska offer make this the perfect place, not just for nature lovers but also for photographers. If you travel here, you’re sure to get a chance to take some gorgeous pictures of nature. However, with this huge selection of gorgeous lakes for you to visit, it can be hard to decide where to go exactly. We hope this list of the top lake vacations to take in Alaska will help you narrow down your options.

Remember that besides these stunning lakes, Alaska has much more to offer. From dense mountains and forests to many national parks with endemic wildlife species. So, if you want to include some of these in your trip, you should factor them in when planning. If you plan to choose one of the lakes from this list, you should check whether you can experience and see the other things you’re interested in if you go there.

The best way to enjoy your trip to Alaska

If you can’t be satisfied by traveling to just one lake, a popular travel option is to go on a cruise that takes you through the bodies of water in Alaska. This is one of the best ways to see as much nature and as many lakes as possible. Most cruises also make stops in residential cities and villages, so you’ll also be able to experience the culture and lifestyle of Alaska.

This is also a great option if you’re planning to move here. The nature you’ll see, and the lakes you’ll visit will make the trip feel like a vacation. While the stops in the residential parts of Alaska will be great for scouting where exactly you could move. All that’s left after that means to find help with a crew of interstate movers and to let pros make it easy to start your new life in Alaska. And what better way than to enjoy one of the following beautiful lakes.

#1 Eklutna Lake

Eklutna Lake is a gorgeous location in the Anchorage municipality, and it’s pretty close to the village of Eklutna. It offers dreamy and picturesque sceneries while allowing various fun outdoor activities. The most popular options are kayaking and canoeing. However, if you’re a fan of camping and hiking, you’ll also enjoy this place. One of the most unique and interesting activities that many people do at this lake is marriage. That’s right; it’s possible to tie the knot at the shore of this lake. So many people choose to do it because of the gorgeous scenery.

You can go canoeing and kayaking when you go on vacations to Eklutna Lake in Alaska.

While this is one of the best lake vacations to take in Alaska, you should refrain from doing it alone. The weather can change quickly, and it’s much safer to go on a guided tour. And if you go for the getting married option, consult a local professional to help you decide on a date with the minimal chance of weather complications.

#2 Lake Clark

Lake Clark is Alaska’s sixth-largest lake. It is located in the Lake Clark National Park and Preserve. It is one of Alaska’s most beautiful locations and incredibly popular with photographers. However, one issue with this place is that it’s not for the casual vacationer. It’s impossible to get to Lake Clark by car since no roads lead there. Anyone who wants to visit would have to book a boat or plane transfer phone off and advance. However, don’t let this discourage you. You can still enjoy the fun of a road trip until you get there. Just make sure to utilize everything you can to make the road trip safer since the roads in Alaska can be treacherous.

After you get there, you will see how worth it all of that effort was. Lake Clark has so much to offer. From beautiful landscapes and wildlife encounters to activities like kayaking, boating, and fishing

#3 Tustumena Lake

This lake is located in south-central Alaska and is the fifth-largest lake in the state. Similar to Lake Clark, it is relatively isolated, meaning that there is no road access. The most popular way to get here is by boat. However, the positive side of the fact that it’s a bit harder to get to is that the nature of the place is almost untouched. That, combined with the fact that the water of this lake comes from a nearby glacier, means that you can expect it to be truly crystal clear. Another reason this is one of the best lake vacations to take in Alaska is that it is the perfect place for any photographer.

A boat on a lake. — If you want to vacation at Tustumena Lake, you should know that it’s only accessible by boat.

#4 Katmai Crater Lake

This is a unique lake on this list. Just like the name says, this lake is situated in the crater of a volcano. It truly is a fantastic sight. However, it can only be viewed by a guided flight-seeing tour, usually from a helicopter.

This volcanic mountaintop filled with water was found in 1916 after one of the volcanoes near Katmai Mountain erupted. This caused Katmai Mountain to fall and the Katmai Crater Lake to form. The lake was discovered during a survey of the area after the volcanic activity had subsided.

#5 Goose Lake

This lake will offer a different experience from the ones we’ve discussed up till now. Firstly, it is located in the central part of Anchorage, near the university district. Since it’s so close to the city, traveling here will give off more of a summer beach vacation vibe. You’ll be able to spend the day swimming in the lake and relaxing on the beach. And then, in the evening, you’ll be able to enjoy the nearby restaurants and shopping centers. While it is generally all about swimming, it also offers opportunities for fishing and hiking.

A man fishing in a lake. — Goose lake is one of the best lake vacations to take in Alaska if you want to engage in activities like fishing.

One issue with this is that it does get pretty crowded. However, it is an excellent stop for any road trip through Alaska. You can take it easy and rest for the evening in one of the fantastic hotels here. Or explore the city for a bit, go for a swim in the lake, and then pack up and move on.

Final thoughts

Alaska is a stunning part of the US that many commonly overlook. If you want to spend your vacation taking in gorgeous scenery and breathing in the fresh air of pristine, untouched nature, then you should keep these lake vacations to take in Alaska in mind. They will leave you with unforgettable memories, awe, and a photo album full of gorgeous panoramic scenes. And don’t forget to enjoy other aspects of Alaska while you’re here. For example, Alaska is also one of the world’s best stargazing destinations. You can also hike, enjoy watersports in the lakes and go camping. And even if you just plan on going on a general trip to Alaska, make sure to include at least one of these gorgeous lakes in your plan. You won’t regret it.

Nature Lover’s Guide to California

Featured3 Comments

A woman taking pictures on the coastline

What’s the first thing that comes to your mind when you say California? Silicon Valley, traffic, surfing, and swimming in the ocean. However, California is so much more than that. Nature lovers can explore the Sunshine State in the most magnificent ways and have the most exciting adventures. Driving along the California roads ensures beautiful views of forests, alpine lakes, deserts, and so much more. That’s why you should plan this itinerary with our nature lover’s guide to California – find out what spots in the Sunshine State will take your breath away!

Yosemite National Park

It’s one of the best-known national parks in the country – and there’s a great reason for it. The drive along the park will give you the chance to see some of the most magnificent views. Highway 120 is probably the best way to approach the park, and it’s one of the commonly used roads for travelers. You can also go for a more historic option – Highway 140, which is great for driving all year long. Furthermore, you can use the Tioga Pass to enter the park, so you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Some of the top attractions in Yosemite are Yosemite Falls, Half Dome, El Capitan, Yosemite Museum, Indian Village, etc. True nature lovers can enjoy climbing, hiking, and camping in the park, so there’s something for everyone.

Yosemite rock formations — Yosemite Park is a must-see item in our nature lover’s guide to California.

Death Valley National Park

Even though many don’t find this national park attractive at first, the place is absolutely worth visiting. These unique landscapes will make you forget you’re in California or even in the United States! Don’t be afraid of its name; the Death Valley is a beautiful national park with stunning rock formations, canyons, dunes, and so much more. However, this is a place of extremes, so avoid visiting it in the summer months. It gets extremely hot and dry, so the best time to visit it is from November to March. Visiting the valley can be a one-day trip – you can make this rather short itinerary and see a lot. Be sure to include Mesquite Sand Dunes, Zabriskie Point, Badwater Basin Salt Flats, and Furnace Creek Visitor Center. Finish it with stargazing at Harmony Borax Works. The sky in the Death Valley gets extremely dark, which is why it’s one of the best places to see the stars above us.

Napa Valley

If you’re starting your California getaway experience n San Francisco, be sure to visit Napa Valley for some wine tasting. The area is famous worldwide for producing high-quality wines, so it should be a stop on your itinerary. Even if you’re not a wine-lover, you’ll enjoy the beauty of vineyards in the area. There are several wineries that you can visit here, so be sure to book a tour. While in Napa Valley, you can also visit Westwood Hills Park, Skyline Wilderness Park, and Oxbow Preserve.

Redwoods of Klamath, CA

For some dream-like sights, go to Redwoods of Klamath. You’ll see famous Trees of Mystery – ancient giant trees that look like they’re from a fairytale. There are even trees that grow together to form a shrine called Cathedral Tree. Also, for a unique drive-thru experience, visit the Tour Thru Tree – just be sure to fold your rearview mirrors! This nature park is suitable for kids, too, which is great if you’re traveling with your family.

Monterey

Even though there’s a lot to see in this area, nature lovers often choose to see wildlife in the Monterey Aquarium. Different exhibits of wildlife that can be found in California’s waters will blow your mind. You’ll see wolf eels, leopard sharks, and even the giant Pacific octopus. Maritime lovers will surely enjoy seeing these beautiful sea creatures. Also, Monterey Bay is home to one of the greatest places to move with your family and one of the best family-friendly cities in CA. Use this chance to visit the places that can potentially be your new home and a perfect location to live with your little ones.

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park

This nature park is favored by hikers as many trails lead to magnificent natural sights. You can encounter various animals here – black-tailed deer or a skunk. However, our favorite sight is at the banks of the Big Sur River, where you can enjoy the magnificent gorge and even take a swim in the swimming hole.

In general, the Big Sur coast is very attractive to visitors, as it’s home to some of the most beautiful natural wonders of California. Driving along this coast will ensure you see different nature parks, the Big Sur Lighthouse, the Bixby Creek Bridge, and more.

The bridge on the Big Sur Coast in California — Visit the Big Sur Coast with a breathtaking view and the most beautiful sunsets.

Lake Tahoe

One of the main nature attractions in the state, Lake Tahoe will astonish you with its beauty. The deep green color of its waters and mountain surroundings make this a true gem of this nature lover’s guide to California. There’s so much to do here – swimming, boating, hiking, and camping. This is also one of the top skiing destinations in the Sunshine State. You can reach this place by car or even by plane – there’s the Tahoe International Airport nearby. There are several hotels and Airbnb accommodations in the area, but be sure to book in advance. Summertime is rather busy with tourists from all around the world.

Laguna Beach

Another beautiful coastline of California is the Laguna Beach area. Apart from visiting the town of Laguna Beach, drive along the coast to see some of the many beaches and coves. The cliff formations and rock arches show the tremendous power of the ocean to shape the earth. This area is a common stop for those embarking on the Pacific Coast journey and people who like to stay at hotels with first-class ocean views. It’s definitely a sight to see, so maybe planning this road trip this year is a great idea.

One visit is simply not enough to see all the natural wonders of California. However, we hope this nature lover’s guide to California will narrow your list a bit and help you choose the best location to make memories for the rest of your life.