Island Hopping and Globe Trotting

Day at Disneyland now costs more

ANAHEIM, Calif. » When you wish upon a star, be sure to bring your wallet. Disneyland has taken another step toward becoming the priciest place on earth.

Disney said in a statement that starting today, a one-day adult ticket to one park will cost $92, a $5 increase. Kids’ tickets also jumped $5, to $87.

The prices apply to either Disneyland Park or Disney California Adventure Park. Buyers of annual passes will see similar increases.

The Disneyland statement says the price hikes were brought on by “a variety of factors” but that the tickets represent a great value given the breadth and quality of attractions and entertainment” its parks offer.

Trail added to national system

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. » A mountain biking, hiking and equestrian trail near Las Cruces has been added to the National Trails System.

Interior Secretary Jewel Hall announced that the Sierra Vista Trail in the Organ Mountains and 27 others trails around the country have been added to the system.

Built by the Bureau of Land Management, local mountain biking and running groups and other volunteers, the 29-mile trail runs the length of the west side of the mountains.

National recreation trail designation recognizes existing trails and trail systems that link communities to recreational opportunities on public lands and in local parks across the nation. Communities and other partners supporting the trails receive a certificate of designation, a letter of congratulations from Secretary Jewell and a set of national recreation trail markers.

Busch Gardens’ iconic ride kaput

TAMPA, Fla. » Busch Gardens’ Sandstorm ride is closing to the public after being in the park since 1979.

Sandstorm, which has six arms and spins riders around, closes Monday and will be dismantled to make way for something else.

The Tampa Tribune reports that a news conference has been scheduled for Tuesday to announce what will take Sandstorm’s place. The invitation to that event says they are “dropping big news” hinting at the possibility of a drop tower, similar to the one at Busch Gardens Williamsburg in Virginia.

Three other rides — Busch Flyers, Desert Runners and Kiddie Train, which are adjacent to Sandstorm in the northern reaches of the amusement park — will temporarily close as of Monday.