78
TRIBUNE NEWS SERVICE / 2015
The colors of dawn begin to paint the age-old rock formations of the Grand Canyon along the South Rim near Mather Point.
Make family travel memories this year. Here are five destinations to consider:
1. Michigan’s Upper Peninsula
A four-season playground for nature lovers, Michigan’s Upper Peninsula nudges up against three Great Lakes — Superior, Huron and Michigan. That said, water and beach activities are plentiful with kayaking, sailing and fishing as warm weather staples. Inland, visitors venture along rivers that feed the Great Lakes, explore old-growth forests and fly fish small streams.
From the Porcupine Mountains, just a few miles from the shores of Lake Superior and considered one of Michigan’s most wild landscapes, adventurers can hike from a summit to the shore in one day. During the winter months, snowmobiling, skiing, snowshoeing and ice fishing are popular pursuits.
Contact: Michigan.org
2. Niagara Falls, N.Y.
Hear it roar. And feel the mist. Ponchos are provided when you board the iconic tour boat, the Maid of the Mist, to feel the power of the historic falls. Formed some 12,000 years ago, Niagara Falls, straddling the U.S. border with Canada, has long been a magnet for explorers and adventurers, as well as honeymooning travelers. By day, explore the area from multiple angles, via lush nature trails, a water-skimming jet boat or high-flying helicopter.
Inside the Niagara Falls State Park, visit the observation tower for a panoramic view of the three main falls — American, Bridal Veil and Horseshoe falls. Each night, the park offers an illumination of the falls, along with seasonal fireworks.
Contact: NiagaraFallsUSA.com
3. Northern Arizona
The Grand Canyon National Park is celebrating a big birthday in 2019. So why not join in the centennial celebration? Millions visit this wonder of the world each year to marvel at the mile-deep gorge, exploring by foot, on a mule or capturing the vast beauty with a camera or the mind’s eye. Stay on the South Rim where year-round access is possible and you’ll have access to ranger programs, dining options and stunning views. Explore other regions in northern Arizona for hiking, biking and a history lesson along Route 66. Pose for a photo on a corner in Winslow, ride horseback at a guest ranch or rent a houseboat on Lake Powell.
Contact: VisitArizona.com, NPS.gov/GCNP, GrandCanyonLodges.com
4. The Bahamas
You’ll find lavish resorts in a bustling enclave or quiet getaways on tiny spits of sand, all just 50 miles off the coast of Florida. Choose your preferred sun-drenched environment from among 700 islands, embraced by crystal clear water and the world’s third-largest barrier reef. Visions of snorkeling, diving, saltwater fly fishing, ecotours, horseback riding, kayaking or just relaxing on soft sandy beaches will provide plenty to compel your family to plan a visit to this breathtaking archipelago.
Contact: Bahamas.com
5. Tennessee
In Tennessee, you’ll find natural beauty, great music and vibrant communities ladled with a dose of Southern hospitality. Enjoy the 800-square mile wonderland that is the Great Smoky Mountain National Park for hiking, horseback riding and fishing. Add a musical note to your trip with a stop by Graceland to see how the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll, Elvis Presley lived and worked.
Spend time in Music City USA, otherwise known as Nashville, to discover the rich origins of country music. Visit the Grand Ole Opry and the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum to learn how folk, gospel music and front-porch jamming evolved into the sounds we know today.
Nature-loving families may want to consider a hike on the John Muir Trail in the Cherokee National Forest. It’s a relatively crowd-free portion of the state that’s said to look much the same as it did in Muir’s day.
Contact: TNVacation.com
By participating in online discussions you acknowledge that you have agreed to the Terms of Service. An insightful discussion of ideas and viewpoints is encouraged, but comments must be civil and in good taste, with no personal attacks. If your comments are inappropriate, you may be banned from posting. Report comments if you believe they do not follow our guidelines.
Having trouble with comments? Learn more here.