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  • Weaver's Needle is a rock pnnacle in the Superstition Mountains, Arizona, USA
    03AZ-09-25_Weavers-Needle_Superstiti...jpg
  • Sitting on the edge of the Pulpit (Prekestolen) invokes fear and takes your break away, 1959 feet above Lysefjord, Forsand municipality, Rogaland county, Ryfylke traditional district, Norway, Europe. The nearest city is Jørpeland, in Strand municipality. 1981 photo.
    81NOR-08-38_Lysefjord,_legs_perch_Th...jpg
  • A side view reveals a long vertical crack in the Pulpit (Prekestolen), 1959 feet above Lysefjord, in Forsand municipality, Rogaland county, Ryfylke traditional district, Norway, Europe. The nearest city is Jørpeland, in Strand municipality. 1981 photo.
    81NOR-08-29_Pulpit_side_view_people.jpg
  • The "Svolvær Goat" rises to 1955 feet elevation on the Lofoten Islands, above the Arctic Circle, Norway. 1981 photo.
    81NOR-03-26_Svolvaer_Goat_1955_ft.jpg
  • LaGorce Arch (100 feet wide and 75 feet high) appears at an impressive bend of Davis Gulch on in the Escalante Arm of Lake Powell, in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, Utah, USA.
    00SW-07-14-LaGorce-Arch_Davis-Gulch.jpg
  • Hikers ascend impressive switchbacks of the West Rim Trail on the way to Angels Landing and Scout Lookout. Zion National Park adjoins Springdale, Utah, USA. The North Fork of the Virgin River carved spectacular Zion Canyon through reddish and tan-colored Navajo Sandstone up to half a mile (800 m) deep and 15 miles (24 km) long. Uplift associated with the creation of the Colorado Plateaus lifted the region 10,000 feet (3000 m) starting 13 million years ago. Zion and Kolob canyon geology includes 9 formations covering 150 million years of mostly Mesozoic-aged sedimentation, from warm, shallow seas, streams, lakes, vast deserts, and dry near-shore environments. Mormons discovered the canyon in 1858 and settled in the early 1860s. U.S. President Taft declared it Mukuntuweap National Monument in 1909. In 1918, the name changed to Zion (an ancient Hebrew name for Jerusalem), which became a National Park in 1919. The Kolob section (a 1937 National Monument) was added to Zion National Park in 1956. Unusually diverse plants and animals congregate here where the Colorado Plateau, Great Basin, and Mojave Desert meet.
    11UT1-2220_Zion-NP-Utah.jpg
  • Höllentalklamm (Valley of Hell Gorge) trail hewn through rock along Hammersbach stream, Grainau, Bavaria, Germany, Europe. Höllentalklamm (Valley of Hell Gorge) is a great natural wonder in Bavaria, Germany. This popular slot canyon is cradled within Höllental (Valley of Hell), a large cirque on Zugspitze (2,962 meters), the highest peak of Germany and of the Wetterstein Mountains. Many hike Höllentalklamm directly from Hammersbach hamlet in Grainau (7.1 miles round trip, with 2800 feet gain and loss). But a more panoramic route starts from atop Kreuzeckbahn cable car and adds a thrilling ledge trail into the Valley of Hell (8.7 miles round trip accumulating 760 feet up and 3470 feet down, including Schwarzenkopf peak). Directions: In Garmisch-Partenkirchen, park in the pay lot and ride the Kreuzeckbahn cable car (not the adjacent Alpspitzbahn). Walk to Hupfleitenjoch saddle. Optionally ascend a steep side trail to Schwarzenkopf peak for a 360-degree panorama (adds 200 feet gain, 0.4 miles round trip). From Hupfleitenjoch, switchback on via ledges into the impressive Höllental, passing unmanaged huts at Knappenhäusern. More ledges lead down to Höllentalangerhütte, a mountain hut with good lunch and impressive views of the Wetterstein mountains (including Zugspitze, Kleine Riffelwandspitze, Riffeltorkopf, Schönangerspitze). Further below, hikers enter the top of the kilometer-long Höllental Gorge, whose twisty stairs and tunnels were built from 1902 to 1905. Follow signs to Hammersbach über Klamm and to Höllentalklamm. When given a choice, pick the outside path to see more of the tumbling stream, instead of taking the tight tunnels. Cross the Eiserne Brücke footbridge. Pay a fee upon exiting the gorge. Walk by Höllentaleingangshütte, winding down to Hammersbach village. Follow signs back to Kreuzeckbahn valley station.
    23.07ALPS-1024.jpg
  • Garmisch-Partenkirchen seen from the high trail between Kreuzeckbahn cable car and Hupfleitenjoch, in Bavaria, Germany, Europe. Garmisch-Partenkirchen formed when 2 towns united in 1935. Höllentalklamm (Valley of Hell Gorge) is a great natural wonder in Bavaria, Germany. This popular slot canyon is cradled within Höllental (Valley of Hell), a large cirque on Zugspitze (2,962 meters), the highest peak of Germany and of the Wetterstein Mountains. Many hike Höllentalklamm directly from Hammersbach hamlet in Grainau (7.1 miles round trip, with 2800 feet gain and loss). But a more panoramic route starts from atop Kreuzeckbahn cable car and adds a thrilling ledge trail into the Valley of Hell (8.7 miles round trip accumulating 760 feet up and 3470 feet down, including Schwarzenkopf peak). Directions: In Garmisch-Partenkirchen, park in the pay lot and ride the Kreuzeckbahn cable car (not the adjacent Alpspitzbahn). Walk to Hupfleitenjoch saddle. Optionally ascend a steep side trail to Schwarzenkopf peak for a 360-degree panorama (adds 200 feet gain, 0.4 miles round trip). From Hupfleitenjoch, switchback on via ledges into the impressive Höllental, passing unmanaged huts at Knappenhäusern. More ledges lead down to Höllentalangerhütte, a mountain hut with good lunch and impressive views of the Wetterstein mountains (including Zugspitze, Kleine Riffelwandspitze, Riffeltorkopf, Schönangerspitze). Further below, hikers enter the top of the kilometer-long Höllental Gorge, whose twisty stairs and tunnels were built from 1902 to 1905. Follow signs to Hammersbach über Klamm and to Höllentalklamm. When given a choice, pick the outside path to see more of the tumbling stream, instead of taking the tight tunnels. Cross the Eiserne Brücke footbridge. Pay a fee upon exiting the gorge. Walk by Höllentaleingangshütte, winding down to Hammersbach village. Follow signs back to Kreuzeckbahn valley station.
    23.07ALPS-0816.jpg
  • The impressive Hanakapiai Falls (300 feet high) is a slippery side trip from Kalalau Trail, on Na Pali Coast, Kauai, Hawaii, USA. A beautiful day hike along the Kalalau Trail goes from Ke'e Beach to Hanakapiai Beach, with a rougher side trip to impressive Hanakapiai Falls, in Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park on the island of Kauai. To reach Hanakapiai Valley's waterfall, follow the signed clay trails for a moderately strenuous 8.8 miles round trip with 2200 feet cumulative gain (measured on my GPS), and bring plenty of fresh water. I recommend boots with sturdy tread, hiking poles, plus water shoes for the several stream crossings. Arrive early to get parking at the trailhead in Haena State Park at the end of the Kuhio Highway (Hawaii Route 560). The gorgeous Kalalau Trail was built in the late 1800s to connect Hawaiians living in the remote valleys. No permit is needed for day hiking to Hanakapiai Falls. But hikers going onwards from Hanakapiai Beach to Hanakoa and Kalalau Valleys require a camping permit from the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources (HDLNR).
    1701HAW-1031.jpg
  • The impressive Hanakapiai Falls (300 feet high) is a slippery side trip from Kalalau Trail, on Na Pali Coast, Kauai, Hawaii, USA. A beautiful day hike along the Kalalau Trail goes from Ke'e Beach to Hanakapiai Beach, with a rougher side trip to impressive Hanakapiai Falls, in Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park on the island of Kauai. To reach Hanakapiai Valley's waterfall, follow the signed clay trails for a moderately strenuous 8.8 miles round trip with 2200 feet cumulative gain (measured on my GPS), and bring plenty of fresh water. I recommend boots with sturdy tread, hiking poles, plus water shoes for the several stream crossings. Arrive early to get parking at the trailhead in Haena State Park at the end of the Kuhio Highway (Hawaii Route 560). The gorgeous Kalalau Trail was built in the late 1800s to connect Hawaiians living in the remote valleys. No permit is needed for day hiking to Hanakapiai Falls. But hikers going onwards from Hanakapiai Beach to Hanakoa and Kalalau Valleys require a camping permit from the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources (HDLNR).
    1701HAW-0995.jpg
  • Höllentalklamm (Valley of Hell Gorge) trail hewn through rock along Hammersbach stream, Grainau, Bavaria, Germany, Europe. Höllentalklamm (Valley of Hell Gorge) is a great natural wonder in Bavaria, Germany. This popular slot canyon is cradled within Höllental (Valley of Hell), a large cirque on Zugspitze (2,962 meters), the highest peak of Germany and of the Wetterstein Mountains. Many hike Höllentalklamm directly from Hammersbach hamlet in Grainau (7.1 miles round trip, with 2800 feet gain and loss). But a more panoramic route starts from atop Kreuzeckbahn cable car and adds a thrilling ledge trail into the Valley of Hell (8.7 miles round trip accumulating 760 feet up and 3470 feet down, including Schwarzenkopf peak). Directions: In Garmisch-Partenkirchen, park in the pay lot and ride the Kreuzeckbahn cable car (not the adjacent Alpspitzbahn). Walk to Hupfleitenjoch saddle. Optionally ascend a steep side trail to Schwarzenkopf peak for a 360-degree panorama (adds 200 feet gain, 0.4 miles round trip). From Hupfleitenjoch, switchback on via ledges into the impressive Höllental, passing unmanaged huts at Knappenhäusern. More ledges lead down to Höllentalangerhütte, a mountain hut with good lunch and impressive views of the Wetterstein mountains (including Zugspitze, Kleine Riffelwandspitze, Riffeltorkopf, Schönangerspitze). Further below, hikers enter the top of the kilometer-long Höllental Gorge, whose twisty stairs and tunnels were built from 1902 to 1905. Follow signs to Hammersbach über Klamm and to Höllentalklamm. When given a choice, pick the outside path to see more of the tumbling stream, instead of taking the tight tunnels. Cross the Eiserne Brücke footbridge. Pay a fee upon exiting the gorge. Walk by Höllentaleingangshütte, winding down to Hammersbach village. Follow signs back to Kreuzeckbahn valley station.
    23.07ALPS-1108.jpg
  • Höllental (Valley of Hell), a cirque of Zugspitze, seen from Höllentalangerhütte, Grainau, Bavaria, Germany, Europe. Höllentalklamm (Valley of Hell Gorge) is a great natural wonder in Bavaria, Germany. This popular slot canyon is cradled within Höllental (Valley of Hell), a large cirque on Zugspitze (2,962 meters), the highest peak of Germany and of the Wetterstein Mountains. Many hike Höllentalklamm directly from Hammersbach hamlet in Grainau (7.1 miles round trip, with 2800 feet gain and loss). But a more panoramic route starts from atop Kreuzeckbahn cable car and adds a thrilling ledge trail into the Valley of Hell (8.7 miles round trip accumulating 760 feet up and 3470 feet down, including Schwarzenkopf peak). Directions: In Garmisch-Partenkirchen, park in the pay lot and ride the Kreuzeckbahn cable car (not the adjacent Alpspitzbahn). Walk to Hupfleitenjoch saddle. Optionally ascend a steep side trail to Schwarzenkopf peak for a 360-degree panorama (adds 200 feet gain, 0.4 miles round trip). From Hupfleitenjoch, switchback on via ledges into the impressive Höllental, passing unmanaged huts at Knappenhäusern. More ledges lead down to Höllentalangerhütte, a mountain hut with good lunch and impressive views of the Wetterstein mountains (including Zugspitze, Kleine Riffelwandspitze, Riffeltorkopf, Schönangerspitze). Further below, hikers enter the top of the kilometer-long Höllental Gorge, whose twisty stairs and tunnels were built from 1902 to 1905. Follow signs to Hammersbach über Klamm and to Höllentalklamm. When given a choice, pick the outside path to see more of the tumbling stream, instead of taking the tight tunnels. Cross the Eiserne Brücke footbridge. Pay a fee upon exiting the gorge. Walk by Höllentaleingangshütte, winding down to Hammersbach village. Follow signs back to Kreuzeckbahn valley station.
    23.07ALPS-0957-Pano.jpg
  • Höllental (Valley of Hell), a cirque of Zugspitze, seen from Höllentalangerhütte, Grainau, Bavaria, Germany, Europe. Höllentalklamm (Valley of Hell Gorge) is a great natural wonder in Bavaria, Germany. This popular slot canyon is cradled within Höllental (Valley of Hell), a large cirque on Zugspitze (2,962 meters), the highest peak of Germany and of the Wetterstein Mountains. Many hike Höllentalklamm directly from Hammersbach hamlet in Grainau (7.1 miles round trip, with 2800 feet gain and loss). But a more panoramic route starts from atop Kreuzeckbahn cable car and adds a thrilling ledge trail into the Valley of Hell (8.7 miles round trip accumulating 760 feet up and 3470 feet down, including Schwarzenkopf peak). Directions: In Garmisch-Partenkirchen, park in the pay lot and ride the Kreuzeckbahn cable car (not the adjacent Alpspitzbahn). Walk to Hupfleitenjoch saddle. Optionally ascend a steep side trail to Schwarzenkopf peak for a 360-degree panorama (adds 200 feet gain, 0.4 miles round trip). From Hupfleitenjoch, switchback on via ledges into the impressive Höllental, passing unmanaged huts at Knappenhäusern. More ledges lead down to Höllentalangerhütte, a mountain hut with good lunch and impressive views of the Wetterstein mountains (including Zugspitze, Kleine Riffelwandspitze, Riffeltorkopf, Schönangerspitze). Further below, hikers enter the top of the kilometer-long Höllental Gorge, whose twisty stairs and tunnels were built from 1902 to 1905. Follow signs to Hammersbach über Klamm and to Höllentalklamm. When given a choice, pick the outside path to see more of the tumbling stream, instead of taking the tight tunnels. Cross the Eiserne Brücke footbridge. Pay a fee upon exiting the gorge. Walk by Höllentaleingangshütte, winding down to Hammersbach village. Follow signs back to Kreuzeckbahn valley station.
    23.07ALPS-0941-Pano.jpg
  • Quick glacial retreat of Spegazzini Glacier reveals bare rock yet to be reclaimed by forest. Scientists say that nearly 90 percent of the glaciers in Antarctica and Patagonia are melting quickly (2009 data). Similarly, most glaciers worldwide are retreating due to global warming. On Lake Argentino in Los Glaciares National Park, we enjoyed the Glaciers Gourmet Full Day Sightseeing Cruise on board the 'Maria Turquesa' in Santa Cruz Province, Argentina, Patagonia, South America. Starting from La Soledad private port, our ship cruised to the remote and impressive Spegazzini Glacier. The mouth of Upsala Canal allowed viewing distant Upsala Glacier. Landing in Spegazzini Canal Bay allowed a short walk to the old settlers' Las Vacas Station. Finally, navigating the Canal de los Tempanos reached impressive Perito Moreno Glacier where we briefly disembarked certain package-tour members. Remaining passengers cruised back to La Soledad port. Lago Argentino is the biggest freshwater lake in Argentina and reaches as deep as 500 meters (1640 feet). Its outlet, the Santa Cruz River, flows into the Atlantic Ocean. Los Glaciares National Park is honored on UNESCO's World Heritage List.
    2002PAT-1889.jpg
  • Magenta sunset light illuminates clouds over Nachikatsuura, Higashimuro District, Wakayama Prefecture, Japan. The impressive Kumano Nachi Taisha, one of the three Kumano Shrines, is just 20 minutes by bus from Nachi Station. These shrines form part of the "Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range" UNESCO World Heritage Site. In Nachikatsuura, don't miss the impressive tuna market auction at 7:00am, easily viewed from above in the open public gallery. (In contrast, Tokyo's restrictive early morning fish auction at Toyosu Market limits viewers via registration and a wall of glass). Japan is the world's biggest consumer of tuna.
    1810JPN-6069.jpg
  • The impressive Hanakapiai Falls (300 feet high) is a slippery side trip from Kalalau Trail, on Na Pali Coast, Kauai, Hawaii, USA. A beautiful day hike along the Kalalau Trail goes from Ke'e Beach to Hanakapiai Beach, with a rougher side trip to impressive Hanakapiai Falls, in Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park on the island of Kauai. To reach Hanakapiai Valley's waterfall, follow the signed clay trails for a moderately strenuous 8.8 miles round trip with 2200 feet cumulative gain (measured on my GPS), and bring plenty of fresh water. I recommend boots with sturdy tread, hiking poles, plus water shoes for the several stream crossings. Arrive early to get parking at the trailhead in Haena State Park at the end of the Kuhio Highway (Hawaii Route 560). The gorgeous Kalalau Trail was built in the late 1800s to connect Hawaiians living in the remote valleys. No permit is needed for day hiking to Hanakapiai Falls. But hikers going onwards from Hanakapiai Beach to Hanakoa and Kalalau Valleys require a camping permit from the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources (HDLNR).
    1701HAW-0979.jpg
  • Hammersbach hamlet below Zugspitze in Grainau, Bavaria, Germany, Europe. Höllentalklamm (Valley of Hell Gorge) is a great natural wonder in Bavaria, Germany. This popular slot canyon is cradled within Höllental (Valley of Hell), a large cirque on Zugspitze (2,962 meters), the highest peak of Germany and of the Wetterstein Mountains. Many hike Höllentalklamm directly from Hammersbach hamlet in Grainau (7.1 miles round trip, with 2800 feet gain and loss). But a more panoramic route starts from atop Kreuzeckbahn cable car and adds a thrilling ledge trail into the Valley of Hell (8.7 miles round trip accumulating 760 feet up and 3470 feet down, including Schwarzenkopf peak). Directions: In Garmisch-Partenkirchen, park in the pay lot and ride the Kreuzeckbahn cable car (not the adjacent Alpspitzbahn). Walk to Hupfleitenjoch saddle. Optionally ascend a steep side trail to Schwarzenkopf peak for a 360-degree panorama (adds 200 feet gain, 0.4 miles round trip). From Hupfleitenjoch, switchback on via ledges into the impressive Höllental, passing unmanaged huts at Knappenhäusern. More ledges lead down to Höllentalangerhütte, a mountain hut with good lunch and impressive views of the Wetterstein mountains (including Zugspitze, Kleine Riffelwandspitze, Riffeltorkopf, Schönangerspitze). Further below, hikers enter the top of the kilometer-long Höllental Gorge, whose twisty stairs and tunnels were built from 1902 to 1905. Follow signs to Hammersbach über Klamm and to Höllentalklamm. When given a choice, pick the outside path to see more of the tumbling stream, instead of taking the tight tunnels. Cross the Eiserne Brücke footbridge. Pay a fee upon exiting the gorge. Walk by Höllentaleingangshütte, winding down to Hammersbach village. Follow signs back to Kreuzeckbahn valley station.
    20230718_151234.jpg
  • Hammersbach stream cuts through Höllentalklamm (Valley of Hell Gorge), in Grainau, Bavaria, Germany, Europe. Höllentalklamm (Valley of Hell Gorge) is a great natural wonder in Bavaria, Germany. This popular slot canyon is cradled within Höllental (Valley of Hell), a large cirque on Zugspitze (2,962 meters), the highest peak of Germany and of the Wetterstein Mountains. Many hike Höllentalklamm directly from Hammersbach hamlet in Grainau (7.1 miles round trip, with 2800 feet gain and loss). But a more panoramic route starts from atop Kreuzeckbahn cable car and adds a thrilling ledge trail into the Valley of Hell (8.7 miles round trip accumulating 760 feet up and 3470 feet down, including Schwarzenkopf peak). Directions: In Garmisch-Partenkirchen, park in the pay lot and ride the Kreuzeckbahn cable car (not the adjacent Alpspitzbahn). Walk to Hupfleitenjoch saddle. Optionally ascend a steep side trail to Schwarzenkopf peak for a 360-degree panorama (adds 200 feet gain, 0.4 miles round trip). From Hupfleitenjoch, switchback on via ledges into the impressive Höllental, passing unmanaged huts at Knappenhäusern. More ledges lead down to Höllentalangerhütte, a mountain hut with good lunch and impressive views of the Wetterstein mountains (including Zugspitze, Kleine Riffelwandspitze, Riffeltorkopf, Schönangerspitze). Further below, hikers enter the top of the kilometer-long Höllental Gorge, whose twisty stairs and tunnels were built from 1902 to 1905. Follow signs to Hammersbach über Klamm and to Höllentalklamm. When given a choice, pick the outside path to see more of the tumbling stream, instead of taking the tight tunnels. Cross the Eiserne Brücke footbridge. Pay a fee upon exiting the gorge. Walk by Höllentaleingangshütte, winding down to Hammersbach village. Follow signs back to Kreuzeckbahn valley station.
    23.07ALPS-1135-Pano.jpg
  • Höllentalklamm (Valley of Hell Gorge) trail hewn through rock along Hammersbach stream, Grainau, Bavaria, Germany, Europe. Höllentalklamm (Valley of Hell Gorge) is a great natural wonder in Bavaria, Germany. This popular slot canyon is cradled within Höllental (Valley of Hell), a large cirque on Zugspitze (2,962 meters), the highest peak of Germany and of the Wetterstein Mountains. Many hike Höllentalklamm directly from Hammersbach hamlet in Grainau (7.1 miles round trip, with 2800 feet gain and loss). But a more panoramic route starts from atop Kreuzeckbahn cable car and adds a thrilling ledge trail into the Valley of Hell (8.7 miles round trip accumulating 760 feet up and 3470 feet down, including Schwarzenkopf peak). Directions: In Garmisch-Partenkirchen, park in the pay lot and ride the Kreuzeckbahn cable car (not the adjacent Alpspitzbahn). Walk to Hupfleitenjoch saddle. Optionally ascend a steep side trail to Schwarzenkopf peak for a 360-degree panorama (adds 200 feet gain, 0.4 miles round trip). From Hupfleitenjoch, switchback on via ledges into the impressive Höllental, passing unmanaged huts at Knappenhäusern. More ledges lead down to Höllentalangerhütte, a mountain hut with good lunch and impressive views of the Wetterstein mountains (including Zugspitze, Kleine Riffelwandspitze, Riffeltorkopf, Schönangerspitze). Further below, hikers enter the top of the kilometer-long Höllental Gorge, whose twisty stairs and tunnels were built from 1902 to 1905. Follow signs to Hammersbach über Klamm and to Höllentalklamm. When given a choice, pick the outside path to see more of the tumbling stream, instead of taking the tight tunnels. Cross the Eiserne Brücke footbridge. Pay a fee upon exiting the gorge. Walk by Höllentaleingangshütte, winding down to Hammersbach village. Follow signs back to Kreuzeckbahn valley station.
    23.07ALPS-1156.jpg
  • Bridge across Hammersbach stream in Höllentalklamm (Valley of Hell Gorge), Grainau, Germany, Europe. Höllentalklamm (Valley of Hell Gorge) is a great natural wonder in Bavaria, Germany. This popular slot canyon is cradled within Höllental (Valley of Hell), a large cirque on Zugspitze (2,962 meters), the highest peak of Germany and of the Wetterstein Mountains. Many hike Höllentalklamm directly from Hammersbach hamlet in Grainau (7.1 miles round trip, with 2800 feet gain and loss). But a more panoramic route starts from atop Kreuzeckbahn cable car and adds a thrilling ledge trail into the Valley of Hell (8.7 miles round trip accumulating 760 feet up and 3470 feet down, including Schwarzenkopf peak). Directions: In Garmisch-Partenkirchen, park in the pay lot and ride the Kreuzeckbahn cable car (not the adjacent Alpspitzbahn). Walk to Hupfleitenjoch saddle. Optionally ascend a steep side trail to Schwarzenkopf peak for a 360-degree panorama (adds 200 feet gain, 0.4 miles round trip). From Hupfleitenjoch, switchback on via ledges into the impressive Höllental, passing unmanaged huts at Knappenhäusern. More ledges lead down to Höllentalangerhütte, a mountain hut with good lunch and impressive views of the Wetterstein mountains (including Zugspitze, Kleine Riffelwandspitze, Riffeltorkopf, Schönangerspitze). Further below, hikers enter the top of the kilometer-long Höllental Gorge, whose twisty stairs and tunnels were built from 1902 to 1905. Follow signs to Hammersbach über Klamm and to Höllentalklamm. When given a choice, pick the outside path to see more of the tumbling stream, instead of taking the tight tunnels. Cross the Eiserne Brücke footbridge. Pay a fee upon exiting the gorge. Walk by Höllentaleingangshütte, winding down to Hammersbach village. Follow signs back to Kreuzeckbahn valley station.
    23.07ALPS-1148.jpg
  • Suspended boulders, Höllentalklamm (Valley of Hell Gorge) trail hewn along Hammersbach stream, Grainau, Bavaria, Germany, Europe. Höllentalklamm (Valley of Hell Gorge) is a great natural wonder in Bavaria, Germany. This popular slot canyon is cradled within Höllental (Valley of Hell), a large cirque on Zugspitze (2,962 meters), the highest peak of Germany and of the Wetterstein Mountains. Many hike Höllentalklamm directly from Hammersbach hamlet in Grainau (7.1 miles round trip, with 2800 feet gain and loss). But a more panoramic route starts from atop Kreuzeckbahn cable car and adds a thrilling ledge trail into the Valley of Hell (8.7 miles round trip accumulating 760 feet up and 3470 feet down, including Schwarzenkopf peak). Directions: In Garmisch-Partenkirchen, park in the pay lot and ride the Kreuzeckbahn cable car (not the adjacent Alpspitzbahn). Walk to Hupfleitenjoch saddle. Optionally ascend a steep side trail to Schwarzenkopf peak for a 360-degree panorama (adds 200 feet gain, 0.4 miles round trip). From Hupfleitenjoch, switchback on via ledges into the impressive Höllental, passing unmanaged huts at Knappenhäusern. More ledges lead down to Höllentalangerhütte, a mountain hut with good lunch and impressive views of the Wetterstein mountains (including Zugspitze, Kleine Riffelwandspitze, Riffeltorkopf, Schönangerspitze). Further below, hikers enter the top of the kilometer-long Höllental Gorge, whose twisty stairs and tunnels were built from 1902 to 1905. Follow signs to Hammersbach über Klamm and to Höllentalklamm. When given a choice, pick the outside path to see more of the tumbling stream, instead of taking the tight tunnels. Cross the Eiserne Brücke footbridge. Pay a fee upon exiting the gorge. Walk by Höllentaleingangshütte, winding down to Hammersbach village. Follow signs back to Kreuzeckbahn valley station.
    23.07ALPS-1117-Pano.jpg
  • Bridge across Hammersbach stream in Höllentalklamm (Valley of Hell Gorge), Grainau, Germany, Europe. Höllentalklamm (Valley of Hell Gorge) is a great natural wonder in Bavaria, Germany. This popular slot canyon is cradled within Höllental (Valley of Hell), a large cirque on Zugspitze (2,962 meters), the highest peak of Germany and of the Wetterstein Mountains. Many hike Höllentalklamm directly from Hammersbach hamlet in Grainau (7.1 miles round trip, with 2800 feet gain and loss). But a more panoramic route starts from atop Kreuzeckbahn cable car and adds a thrilling ledge trail into the Valley of Hell (8.7 miles round trip accumulating 760 feet up and 3470 feet down, including Schwarzenkopf peak). Directions: In Garmisch-Partenkirchen, park in the pay lot and ride the Kreuzeckbahn cable car (not the adjacent Alpspitzbahn). Walk to Hupfleitenjoch saddle. Optionally ascend a steep side trail to Schwarzenkopf peak for a 360-degree panorama (adds 200 feet gain, 0.4 miles round trip). From Hupfleitenjoch, switchback on via ledges into the impressive Höllental, passing unmanaged huts at Knappenhäusern. More ledges lead down to Höllentalangerhütte, a mountain hut with good lunch and impressive views of the Wetterstein mountains (including Zugspitze, Kleine Riffelwandspitze, Riffeltorkopf, Schönangerspitze). Further below, hikers enter the top of the kilometer-long Höllental Gorge, whose twisty stairs and tunnels were built from 1902 to 1905. Follow signs to Hammersbach über Klamm and to Höllentalklamm. When given a choice, pick the outside path to see more of the tumbling stream, instead of taking the tight tunnels. Cross the Eiserne Brücke footbridge. Pay a fee upon exiting the gorge. Walk by Höllentaleingangshütte, winding down to Hammersbach village. Follow signs back to Kreuzeckbahn valley station.
    23.07ALPS-1143.jpg
  • Hammersbach stream plunges through Höllentalklamm (Valley of Hell Gorge), in Grainau, Bavaria, Germany, Europe. Höllentalklamm (Valley of Hell Gorge) is a great natural wonder in Bavaria, Germany. This popular slot canyon is cradled within Höllental (Valley of Hell), a large cirque on Zugspitze (2,962 meters), the highest peak of Germany and of the Wetterstein Mountains. Many hike Höllentalklamm directly from Hammersbach hamlet in Grainau (7.1 miles round trip, with 2800 feet gain and loss). But a more panoramic route starts from atop Kreuzeckbahn cable car and adds a thrilling ledge trail into the Valley of Hell (8.7 miles round trip accumulating 760 feet up and 3470 feet down, including Schwarzenkopf peak). Directions: In Garmisch-Partenkirchen, park in the pay lot and ride the Kreuzeckbahn cable car (not the adjacent Alpspitzbahn). Walk to Hupfleitenjoch saddle. Optionally ascend a steep side trail to Schwarzenkopf peak for a 360-degree panorama (adds 200 feet gain, 0.4 miles round trip). From Hupfleitenjoch, switchback on via ledges into the impressive Höllental, passing unmanaged huts at Knappenhäusern. More ledges lead down to Höllentalangerhütte, a mountain hut with good lunch and impressive views of the Wetterstein mountains (including Zugspitze, Kleine Riffelwandspitze, Riffeltorkopf, Schönangerspitze). Further below, hikers enter the top of the kilometer-long Höllental Gorge, whose twisty stairs and tunnels were built from 1902 to 1905. Follow signs to Hammersbach über Klamm and to Höllentalklamm. When given a choice, pick the outside path to see more of the tumbling stream, instead of taking the tight tunnels. Cross the Eiserne Brücke footbridge. Pay a fee upon exiting the gorge. Walk by Höllentaleingangshütte, winding down to Hammersbach village. Follow signs back to Kreuzeckbahn valley station.
    23.07ALPS-1110.jpg
  • Höllentalklamm (Valley of Hell Gorge) trail hewn through rock along Hammersbach stream, Grainau, Bavaria, Germany, Europe. Höllentalklamm (Valley of Hell Gorge) is a great natural wonder in Bavaria, Germany. This popular slot canyon is cradled within Höllental (Valley of Hell), a large cirque on Zugspitze (2,962 meters), the highest peak of Germany and of the Wetterstein Mountains. Many hike Höllentalklamm directly from Hammersbach hamlet in Grainau (7.1 miles round trip, with 2800 feet gain and loss). But a more panoramic route starts from atop Kreuzeckbahn cable car and adds a thrilling ledge trail into the Valley of Hell (8.7 miles round trip accumulating 760 feet up and 3470 feet down, including Schwarzenkopf peak). Directions: In Garmisch-Partenkirchen, park in the pay lot and ride the Kreuzeckbahn cable car (not the adjacent Alpspitzbahn). Walk to Hupfleitenjoch saddle. Optionally ascend a steep side trail to Schwarzenkopf peak for a 360-degree panorama (adds 200 feet gain, 0.4 miles round trip). From Hupfleitenjoch, switchback on via ledges into the impressive Höllental, passing unmanaged huts at Knappenhäusern. More ledges lead down to Höllentalangerhütte, a mountain hut with good lunch and impressive views of the Wetterstein mountains (including Zugspitze, Kleine Riffelwandspitze, Riffeltorkopf, Schönangerspitze). Further below, hikers enter the top of the kilometer-long Höllental Gorge, whose twisty stairs and tunnels were built from 1902 to 1905. Follow signs to Hammersbach über Klamm and to Höllentalklamm. When given a choice, pick the outside path to see more of the tumbling stream, instead of taking the tight tunnels. Cross the Eiserne Brücke footbridge. Pay a fee upon exiting the gorge. Walk by Höllentaleingangshütte, winding down to Hammersbach village. Follow signs back to Kreuzeckbahn valley station.
    23.07ALPS-1071-Pano-Edit.jpg
  • Waterfall view, Höllentalklamm (Valley of Hell Gorge) trail, Hammersbach stream, Grainau, Bavaria, Germany, Europe. Höllentalklamm (Valley of Hell Gorge) is a great natural wonder in Bavaria, Germany. This popular slot canyon is cradled within Höllental (Valley of Hell), a large cirque on Zugspitze (2,962 meters), the highest peak of Germany and of the Wetterstein Mountains. Many hike Höllentalklamm directly from Hammersbach hamlet in Grainau (7.1 miles round trip, with 2800 feet gain and loss). But a more panoramic route starts from atop Kreuzeckbahn cable car and adds a thrilling ledge trail into the Valley of Hell (8.7 miles round trip accumulating 760 feet up and 3470 feet down, including Schwarzenkopf peak). Directions: In Garmisch-Partenkirchen, park in the pay lot and ride the Kreuzeckbahn cable car (not the adjacent Alpspitzbahn). Walk to Hupfleitenjoch saddle. Optionally ascend a steep side trail to Schwarzenkopf peak for a 360-degree panorama (adds 200 feet gain, 0.4 miles round trip). From Hupfleitenjoch, switchback on via ledges into the impressive Höllental, passing unmanaged huts at Knappenhäusern. More ledges lead down to Höllentalangerhütte, a mountain hut with good lunch and impressive views of the Wetterstein mountains (including Zugspitze, Kleine Riffelwandspitze, Riffeltorkopf, Schönangerspitze). Further below, hikers enter the top of the kilometer-long Höllental Gorge, whose twisty stairs and tunnels were built from 1902 to 1905. Follow signs to Hammersbach über Klamm and to Höllentalklamm. When given a choice, pick the outside path to see more of the tumbling stream, instead of taking the tight tunnels. Cross the Eiserne Brücke footbridge. Pay a fee upon exiting the gorge. Walk by Höllentaleingangshütte, winding down to Hammersbach village. Follow signs back to Kreuzeckbahn valley station.
    23.07ALPS-1080.jpg
  • Hammersbach stream plunges through Höllentalklamm (Valley of Hell Gorge), in Grainau, Bavaria, Germany, Europe. Höllentalklamm (Valley of Hell Gorge) is a great natural wonder in Bavaria, Germany. This popular slot canyon is cradled within Höllental (Valley of Hell), a large cirque on Zugspitze (2,962 meters), the highest peak of Germany and of the Wetterstein Mountains. Many hike Höllentalklamm directly from Hammersbach hamlet in Grainau (7.1 miles round trip, with 2800 feet gain and loss). But a more panoramic route starts from atop Kreuzeckbahn cable car and adds a thrilling ledge trail into the Valley of Hell (8.7 miles round trip accumulating 760 feet up and 3470 feet down, including Schwarzenkopf peak). Directions: In Garmisch-Partenkirchen, park in the pay lot and ride the Kreuzeckbahn cable car (not the adjacent Alpspitzbahn). Walk to Hupfleitenjoch saddle. Optionally ascend a steep side trail to Schwarzenkopf peak for a 360-degree panorama (adds 200 feet gain, 0.4 miles round trip). From Hupfleitenjoch, switchback on via ledges into the impressive Höllental, passing unmanaged huts at Knappenhäusern. More ledges lead down to Höllentalangerhütte, a mountain hut with good lunch and impressive views of the Wetterstein mountains (including Zugspitze, Kleine Riffelwandspitze, Riffeltorkopf, Schönangerspitze). Further below, hikers enter the top of the kilometer-long Höllental Gorge, whose twisty stairs and tunnels were built from 1902 to 1905. Follow signs to Hammersbach über Klamm and to Höllentalklamm. When given a choice, pick the outside path to see more of the tumbling stream, instead of taking the tight tunnels. Cross the Eiserne Brücke footbridge. Pay a fee upon exiting the gorge. Walk by Höllentaleingangshütte, winding down to Hammersbach village. Follow signs back to Kreuzeckbahn valley station.
    23.07ALPS-1068.jpg
  • Höllentalklamm (Valley of Hell Gorge) trail hewn through rock along Hammersbach stream, Grainau, Bavaria, Germany, Europe. Höllentalklamm (Valley of Hell Gorge) is a great natural wonder in Bavaria, Germany. This popular slot canyon is cradled within Höllental (Valley of Hell), a large cirque on Zugspitze (2,962 meters), the highest peak of Germany and of the Wetterstein Mountains. Many hike Höllentalklamm directly from Hammersbach hamlet in Grainau (7.1 miles round trip, with 2800 feet gain and loss). But a more panoramic route starts from atop Kreuzeckbahn cable car and adds a thrilling ledge trail into the Valley of Hell (8.7 miles round trip accumulating 760 feet up and 3470 feet down, including Schwarzenkopf peak). Directions: In Garmisch-Partenkirchen, park in the pay lot and ride the Kreuzeckbahn cable car (not the adjacent Alpspitzbahn). Walk to Hupfleitenjoch saddle. Optionally ascend a steep side trail to Schwarzenkopf peak for a 360-degree panorama (adds 200 feet gain, 0.4 miles round trip). From Hupfleitenjoch, switchback on via ledges into the impressive Höllental, passing unmanaged huts at Knappenhäusern. More ledges lead down to Höllentalangerhütte, a mountain hut with good lunch and impressive views of the Wetterstein mountains (including Zugspitze, Kleine Riffelwandspitze, Riffeltorkopf, Schönangerspitze). Further below, hikers enter the top of the kilometer-long Höllental Gorge, whose twisty stairs and tunnels were built from 1902 to 1905. Follow signs to Hammersbach über Klamm and to Höllentalklamm. When given a choice, pick the outside path to see more of the tumbling stream, instead of taking the tight tunnels. Cross the Eiserne Brücke footbridge. Pay a fee upon exiting the gorge. Walk by Höllentaleingangshütte, winding down to Hammersbach village. Follow signs back to Kreuzeckbahn valley station.
    23.07ALPS-1031.jpg
  • Bridge across Hammersbach stream in Höllentalklamm (Valley of Hell Gorge), Grainau, Germany, Europe. Höllentalklamm (Valley of Hell Gorge) is a great natural wonder in Bavaria, Germany. This popular slot canyon is cradled within Höllental (Valley of Hell), a large cirque on Zugspitze (2,962 meters), the highest peak of Germany and of the Wetterstein Mountains. Many hike Höllentalklamm directly from Hammersbach hamlet in Grainau (7.1 miles round trip, with 2800 feet gain and loss). But a more panoramic route starts from atop Kreuzeckbahn cable car and adds a thrilling ledge trail into the Valley of Hell (8.7 miles round trip accumulating 760 feet up and 3470 feet down, including Schwarzenkopf peak). Directions: In Garmisch-Partenkirchen, park in the pay lot and ride the Kreuzeckbahn cable car (not the adjacent Alpspitzbahn). Walk to Hupfleitenjoch saddle. Optionally ascend a steep side trail to Schwarzenkopf peak for a 360-degree panorama (adds 200 feet gain, 0.4 miles round trip). From Hupfleitenjoch, switchback on via ledges into the impressive Höllental, passing unmanaged huts at Knappenhäusern. More ledges lead down to Höllentalangerhütte, a mountain hut with good lunch and impressive views of the Wetterstein mountains (including Zugspitze, Kleine Riffelwandspitze, Riffeltorkopf, Schönangerspitze). Further below, hikers enter the top of the kilometer-long Höllental Gorge, whose twisty stairs and tunnels were built from 1902 to 1905. Follow signs to Hammersbach über Klamm and to Höllentalklamm. When given a choice, pick the outside path to see more of the tumbling stream, instead of taking the tight tunnels. Cross the Eiserne Brücke footbridge. Pay a fee upon exiting the gorge. Walk by Höllentaleingangshütte, winding down to Hammersbach village. Follow signs back to Kreuzeckbahn valley station.
    23.07ALPS-0999.jpg
  • Höllental (Valley of Hell) seen from Hupfleitenjoch saddle, above Grainau, Bavaria, Germany, Europe. Höllentalklamm (Valley of Hell Gorge) is a great natural wonder in Bavaria, Germany. This popular slot canyon is cradled within Höllental (Valley of Hell), a large cirque on Zugspitze (2,962 meters), the highest peak of Germany and of the Wetterstein Mountains. Many hike Höllentalklamm directly from Hammersbach hamlet in Grainau (7.1 miles round trip, with 2800 feet gain and loss). But a more panoramic route starts from atop Kreuzeckbahn cable car and adds a thrilling ledge trail into the Valley of Hell (8.7 miles round trip accumulating 760 feet up and 3470 feet down, including Schwarzenkopf peak). Directions: In Garmisch-Partenkirchen, park in the pay lot and ride the Kreuzeckbahn cable car (not the adjacent Alpspitzbahn). Walk to Hupfleitenjoch saddle. Optionally ascend a steep side trail to Schwarzenkopf peak for a 360-degree panorama (adds 200 feet gain, 0.4 miles round trip). From Hupfleitenjoch, switchback on via ledges into the impressive Höllental, passing unmanaged huts at Knappenhäusern. More ledges lead down to Höllentalangerhütte, a mountain hut with good lunch and impressive views of the Wetterstein mountains (including Zugspitze, Kleine Riffelwandspitze, Riffeltorkopf, Schönangerspitze). Further below, hikers enter the top of the kilometer-long Höllental Gorge, whose twisty stairs and tunnels were built from 1902 to 1905. Follow signs to Hammersbach über Klamm and to Höllentalklamm. When given a choice, pick the outside path to see more of the tumbling stream, instead of taking the tight tunnels. Cross the Eiserne Brücke footbridge. Pay a fee upon exiting the gorge. Walk by Höllentaleingangshütte, winding down to Hammersbach village. Follow signs back to Kreuzeckbahn valley station.
    23.07ALPS-0863-Pano.jpg
  • The captain of the Maria Turquesa cruises by a large iceberg seen out the windows on Lake Argentino, in Los Glaciares National Park, Argentina, Patagonia, South America. Starting from La Soledad private port, our ship cruised to the remote and impressive Spegazzini Glacier. The mouth of Upsala Canal allowed viewing distant Upsala Glacier. Landing in Spegazzini Canal Bay allowed a short walk to the old settlers' Las Vacas Station. Finally, navigating the Canal de los Tempanos reached impressive Perito Moreno Glacier where we briefly disembarked certain package-tour members. Remaining passengers cruised back to La Soledad port. Lago Argentino is the biggest freshwater lake in Argentina and reaches as deep as 500 meters (1640 feet). Its outlet, the Santa Cruz River, flows into the Atlantic Ocean. Despite most glaciers worldwide retreating due to global warming, the position of Perito Moreno Glacier's grounded tongue has been a relatively-stable exception for the past 50 years. In contrast, the larger Upsala and Viedma glaciers located north of Perito Moreno have retreated dramatically. Scientists say that nearly 90 percent of the glaciers in Antarctica and Patagonia are melting quickly (2009 data). Located 78 kilometers (48 mi) from El Calafate, Perito Moreno Glacier was named after explorer Francisco Moreno, a pioneer who studied the region in the 1800s and defended the territory of Argentina during the international border dispute with Chile. Los Glaciares National Park is honored on UNESCO's World Heritage List.
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  • Magenta sunset light illuminates clouds over Nachikatsuura, Higashimuro District, Wakayama Prefecture, Japan. The impressive Kumano Nachi Taisha, one of the three Kumano Shrines, is just 20 minutes by bus from Nachi Station. These shrines form part of the "Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range" UNESCO World Heritage Site. In Nachikatsuura, don't miss the impressive tuna market auction at 7:00am, easily viewed from above in the open public gallery. (In contrast, Tokyo's restrictive early morning fish auction at Toyosu Market limits viewers via registration and a wall of glass). Japan is the world's biggest consumer of tuna.
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  • The impressive Hanakapiai Falls (300 feet high) is a slippery side trip from Kalalau Trail, on Na Pali Coast, Kauai, Hawaii, USA. A beautiful day hike along the Kalalau Trail goes from Ke'e Beach to Hanakapiai Beach, with a rougher side trip to impressive Hanakapiai Falls, in Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park on the island of Kauai. To reach Hanakapiai Valley's waterfall, follow the signed clay trails for a moderately strenuous 8.8 miles round trip with 2200 feet cumulative gain (measured on my GPS), and bring plenty of fresh water. I recommend boots with sturdy tread, hiking poles, plus water shoes for the several stream crossings. Arrive early to get parking at the trailhead in Haena State Park at the end of the Kuhio Highway (Hawaii Route 560). The gorgeous Kalalau Trail was built in the late 1800s to connect Hawaiians living in the remote valleys. No permit is needed for day hiking to Hanakapiai Falls. But hikers going onwards from Hanakapiai Beach to Hanakoa and Kalalau Valleys require a camping permit from the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources (HDLNR).
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  • The impressive Hanakapiai Falls (300 feet high) is a slippery side trip from Kalalau Trail, on Na Pali Coast, Kauai, Hawaii, USA. A beautiful day hike along the Kalalau Trail goes from Ke'e Beach to Hanakapiai Beach, with a rougher side trip to impressive Hanakapiai Falls, in Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park on the island of Kauai. To reach Hanakapiai Valley's waterfall, follow the signed clay trails for a moderately strenuous 8.8 miles round trip with 2200 feet cumulative gain (measured on my GPS), and bring plenty of fresh water. I recommend boots with sturdy tread, hiking poles, plus water shoes for the several stream crossings. Arrive early to get parking at the trailhead in Haena State Park at the end of the Kuhio Highway (Hawaii Route 560). The gorgeous Kalalau Trail was built in the late 1800s to connect Hawaiians living in the remote valleys. No permit is needed for day hiking to Hanakapiai Falls. But hikers going onwards from Hanakapiai Beach to Hanakoa and Kalalau Valleys require a camping permit from the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources (HDLNR).
    1701HAW-1017.jpg
  • Höllental (Valley of Hell) seen below Hupfleitenjoch saddle, above Grainau, Bavaria, Germany, Europe. Höllentalklamm (Valley of Hell Gorge) is a great natural wonder in Bavaria, Germany. This popular slot canyon is cradled within Höllental (Valley of Hell), a large cirque on Zugspitze (2,962 meters), the highest peak of Germany and of the Wetterstein Mountains. Many hike Höllentalklamm directly from Hammersbach hamlet in Grainau (7.1 miles round trip, with 2800 feet gain and loss). But a more panoramic route starts from atop Kreuzeckbahn cable car and adds a thrilling ledge trail into the Valley of Hell (8.7 miles round trip accumulating 760 feet up and 3470 feet down, including Schwarzenkopf peak). Directions: In Garmisch-Partenkirchen, park in the pay lot and ride the Kreuzeckbahn cable car (not the adjacent Alpspitzbahn). Walk to Hupfleitenjoch saddle. Optionally ascend a steep side trail to Schwarzenkopf peak for a 360-degree panorama (adds 200 feet gain, 0.4 miles round trip). From Hupfleitenjoch, switchback on via ledges into the impressive Höllental, passing unmanaged huts at Knappenhäusern. More ledges lead down to Höllentalangerhütte, a mountain hut with good lunch and impressive views of the Wetterstein mountains (including Zugspitze, Kleine Riffelwandspitze, Riffeltorkopf, Schönangerspitze). Further below, hikers enter the top of the kilometer-long Höllental Gorge, whose twisty stairs and tunnels were built from 1902 to 1905. Follow signs to Hammersbach über Klamm and to Höllentalklamm. When given a choice, pick the outside path to see more of the tumbling stream, instead of taking the tight tunnels. Cross the Eiserne Brücke footbridge. Pay a fee upon exiting the gorge. Walk by Höllentaleingangshütte, winding down to Hammersbach village. Follow signs back to Kreuzeckbahn valley station.
    20230718_103901.jpg
  • Waterfall view, Höllentalklamm (Valley of Hell Gorge) trail, Hammersbach stream, Grainau, Bavaria, Germany, Europe. Höllentalklamm (Valley of Hell Gorge) is a great natural wonder in Bavaria, Germany. This popular slot canyon is cradled within Höllental (Valley of Hell), a large cirque on Zugspitze (2,962 meters), the highest peak of Germany and of the Wetterstein Mountains. Many hike Höllentalklamm directly from Hammersbach hamlet in Grainau (7.1 miles round trip, with 2800 feet gain and loss). But a more panoramic route starts from atop Kreuzeckbahn cable car and adds a thrilling ledge trail into the Valley of Hell (8.7 miles round trip accumulating 760 feet up and 3470 feet down, including Schwarzenkopf peak). Directions: In Garmisch-Partenkirchen, park in the pay lot and ride the Kreuzeckbahn cable car (not the adjacent Alpspitzbahn). Walk to Hupfleitenjoch saddle. Optionally ascend a steep side trail to Schwarzenkopf peak for a 360-degree panorama (adds 200 feet gain, 0.4 miles round trip). From Hupfleitenjoch, switchback on via ledges into the impressive Höllental, passing unmanaged huts at Knappenhäusern. More ledges lead down to Höllentalangerhütte, a mountain hut with good lunch and impressive views of the Wetterstein mountains (including Zugspitze, Kleine Riffelwandspitze, Riffeltorkopf, Schönangerspitze). Further below, hikers enter the top of the kilometer-long Höllental Gorge, whose twisty stairs and tunnels were built from 1902 to 1905. Follow signs to Hammersbach über Klamm and to Höllentalklamm. When given a choice, pick the outside path to see more of the tumbling stream, instead of taking the tight tunnels. Cross the Eiserne Brücke footbridge. Pay a fee upon exiting the gorge. Walk by Höllentaleingangshütte, winding down to Hammersbach village. Follow signs back to Kreuzeckbahn valley station.
    23.07ALPS-1094.jpg
  • Old concrete construction along Hammersbach stream, above Höllentalklamm (Valley of Hell Gorge), Grainau, Bavaria, Germany, Europe. Höllentalklamm (Valley of Hell Gorge) is a great natural wonder in Bavaria, Germany. This popular slot canyon is cradled within Höllental (Valley of Hell), a large cirque on Zugspitze (2,962 meters), the highest peak of Germany and of the Wetterstein Mountains. Many hike Höllentalklamm directly from Hammersbach hamlet in Grainau (7.1 miles round trip, with 2800 feet gain and loss). But a more panoramic route starts from atop Kreuzeckbahn cable car and adds a thrilling ledge trail into the Valley of Hell (8.7 miles round trip accumulating 760 feet up and 3470 feet down, including Schwarzenkopf peak). Directions: In Garmisch-Partenkirchen, park in the pay lot and ride the Kreuzeckbahn cable car (not the adjacent Alpspitzbahn). Walk to Hupfleitenjoch saddle. Optionally ascend a steep side trail to Schwarzenkopf peak for a 360-degree panorama (adds 200 feet gain, 0.4 miles round trip). From Hupfleitenjoch, switchback on via ledges into the impressive Höllental, passing unmanaged huts at Knappenhäusern. More ledges lead down to Höllentalangerhütte, a mountain hut with good lunch and impressive views of the Wetterstein mountains (including Zugspitze, Kleine Riffelwandspitze, Riffeltorkopf, Schönangerspitze). Further below, hikers enter the top of the kilometer-long Höllental Gorge, whose twisty stairs and tunnels were built from 1902 to 1905. Follow signs to Hammersbach über Klamm and to Höllentalklamm. When given a choice, pick the outside path to see more of the tumbling stream, instead of taking the tight tunnels. Cross the Eiserne Brücke footbridge. Pay a fee upon exiting the gorge. Walk by Höllentaleingangshütte, winding down to Hammersbach village. Follow signs back to Kreuzeckbahn valley station.
    23.07ALPS-1000.jpg
  • Concrete pattern, Höllentalklamm (Valley of Hell Gorge) in Grainau, Bavaria, Germany, Europe. Höllentalklamm (Valley of Hell Gorge) is a great natural wonder in Bavaria, Germany. This popular slot canyon is cradled within Höllental (Valley of Hell), a large cirque on Zugspitze (2,962 meters), the highest peak of Germany and of the Wetterstein Mountains. Many hike Höllentalklamm directly from Hammersbach hamlet in Grainau (7.1 miles round trip, with 2800 feet gain and loss). But a more panoramic route starts from atop Kreuzeckbahn cable car and adds a thrilling ledge trail into the Valley of Hell (8.7 miles round trip accumulating 760 feet up and 3470 feet down, including Schwarzenkopf peak). Directions: In Garmisch-Partenkirchen, park in the pay lot and ride the Kreuzeckbahn cable car (not the adjacent Alpspitzbahn). Walk to Hupfleitenjoch saddle. Optionally ascend a steep side trail to Schwarzenkopf peak for a 360-degree panorama (adds 200 feet gain, 0.4 miles round trip). From Hupfleitenjoch, switchback on via ledges into the impressive Höllental, passing unmanaged huts at Knappenhäusern. More ledges lead down to Höllentalangerhütte, a mountain hut with good lunch and impressive views of the Wetterstein mountains (including Zugspitze, Kleine Riffelwandspitze, Riffeltorkopf, Schönangerspitze). Further below, hikers enter the top of the kilometer-long Höllental Gorge, whose twisty stairs and tunnels were built from 1902 to 1905. Follow signs to Hammersbach über Klamm and to Höllentalklamm. When given a choice, pick the outside path to see more of the tumbling stream, instead of taking the tight tunnels. Cross the Eiserne Brücke footbridge. Pay a fee upon exiting the gorge. Walk by Höllentaleingangshütte, winding down to Hammersbach village. Follow signs back to Kreuzeckbahn valley station.
    23.07ALPS-0983.jpg
  • The Valley of Hell is a large cirque in Zugspitze peak, seen here from Schwarzenkopf peak. Höllentalklamm (Valley of Hell Gorge) is a great natural wonder in Bavaria, Germany. This popular slot canyon is cradled within Höllental (Valley of Hell), a large cirque on Zugspitze (2,962 meters), the highest peak of Germany and of the Wetterstein Mountains. Many hike Höllentalklamm directly from Hammersbach hamlet in Grainau (7.1 miles round trip, with 2800 feet gain and loss). But a more panoramic route starts from atop Kreuzeckbahn cable car and adds a thrilling ledge trail into the Valley of Hell (8.7 miles round trip accumulating 760 feet up and 3470 feet down, including Schwarzenkopf peak). Directions: In Garmisch-Partenkirchen, park in the pay lot and ride the Kreuzeckbahn cable car (not the adjacent Alpspitzbahn). Walk to Hupfleitenjoch saddle. Optionally ascend a steep side trail to Schwarzenkopf peak for a 360-degree panorama (adds 200 feet gain, 0.4 miles round trip). From Hupfleitenjoch, switchback on via ledges into the impressive Höllental, passing unmanaged huts at Knappenhäusern. More ledges lead down to Höllentalangerhütte, a mountain hut with good lunch and impressive views of the Wetterstein mountains (including Zugspitze, Kleine Riffelwandspitze, Riffeltorkopf, Schönangerspitze). Further below, hikers enter the top of the kilometer-long Höllental Gorge, whose twisty stairs and tunnels were built from 1902 to 1905. Follow signs to Hammersbach über Klamm and to Höllentalklamm. When given a choice, pick the outside path to see more of the tumbling stream, instead of taking the tight tunnels. Cross the Eiserne Brücke footbridge. Pay a fee upon exiting the gorge. Walk by Höllentaleingangshütte, winding down to Hammersbach village. Follow signs back to Kreuzeckbahn valley station.
    23.07ALPS-0849-Pano.jpg
  • Seco Glacier on Spegazzini Canal. On Lake Argentino in Los Glaciares National Park, we enjoyed the Glaciers Gourmet Full Day Sightseeing Cruise on board the 'Maria Turquesa' in Santa Cruz Province, Argentina, Patagonia, South America. Starting from La Soledad private port, our ship cruised to the remote and impressive Spegazzini Glacier. The mouth of Upsala Canal allowed viewing distant Upsala Glacier. Landing in Spegazzini Canal Bay allowed a short walk to the old settlers' Las Vacas Station. Finally, navigating the Canal de los Tempanos reached impressive Perito Moreno Glacier where we briefly disembarked certain package-tour members. Remaining passengers cruised back to La Soledad port. Lago Argentino is the biggest freshwater lake in Argentina and reaches as deep as 500 meters (1640 feet). Its outlet, the Santa Cruz River, flows into the Atlantic Ocean. Despite most glaciers worldwide retreating due to global warming, the position of Perito Moreno Glacier's grounded tongue has been a relatively-stable exception for the past 50 years. In contrast, the larger Upsala and Viedma glaciers located north of Perito Moreno have retreated dramatically. Scientists say that nearly 90 percent of the glaciers in Antarctica and Patagonia are melting quickly (2009 data). Located 78 kilometers (48 mi) from El Calafate, Perito Moreno Glacier was named after explorer Francisco Moreno, a pioneer who studied the region in the 1800s and defended the territory of Argentina during the international border dispute with Chile. Los Glaciares National Park is honored on UNESCO's World Heritage List.
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  • The impressive Hanakapiai Falls (300 feet high) is a slippery side trip from Kalalau Trail, on Na Pali Coast, Kauai, Hawaii, USA. A beautiful day hike along the Kalalau Trail goes from Ke'e Beach to Hanakapiai Beach, with a rougher side trip to impressive Hanakapiai Falls, in Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park on the island of Kauai. To reach Hanakapiai Valley's waterfall, follow the signed clay trails for a moderately strenuous 8.8 miles round trip with 2200 feet cumulative gain (measured on my GPS), and bring plenty of fresh water. I recommend boots with sturdy tread, hiking poles, plus water shoes for the several stream crossings. Arrive early to get parking at the trailhead in Haena State Park at the end of the Kuhio Highway (Hawaii Route 560). The gorgeous Kalalau Trail was built in the late 1800s to connect Hawaiians living in the remote valleys. No permit is needed for day hiking to Hanakapiai Falls. But hikers going onwards from Hanakapiai Beach to Hanakoa and Kalalau Valleys require a camping permit from the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources (HDLNR).
    1701HAW-1054.jpg
  • The impressive Hanakapiai Falls (300 feet high) is a slippery side trip from Kalalau Trail, on Na Pali Coast, Kauai, Hawaii, USA. A beautiful day hike along the Kalalau Trail goes from Ke'e Beach to Hanakapiai Beach, with a rougher side trip to impressive Hanakapiai Falls, in Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park on the island of Kauai. To reach Hanakapiai Valley's waterfall, follow the signed clay trails for a moderately strenuous 8.8 miles round trip with 2200 feet cumulative gain (measured on my GPS), and bring plenty of fresh water. I recommend boots with sturdy tread, hiking poles, plus water shoes for the several stream crossings. Arrive early to get parking at the trailhead in Haena State Park at the end of the Kuhio Highway (Hawaii Route 560). The gorgeous Kalalau Trail was built in the late 1800s to connect Hawaiians living in the remote valleys. No permit is needed for day hiking to Hanakapiai Falls. But hikers going onwards from Hanakapiai Beach to Hanakoa and Kalalau Valleys require a camping permit from the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources (HDLNR). This image was stitched from multiple overlapping images.
    1701HAW-1029-30-Pano.jpg
  • The impressive Hanakapiai Falls (300 feet high) is a slippery side trip from Kalalau Trail, on Na Pali Coast, Kauai, Hawaii, USA. A beautiful day hike along the Kalalau Trail goes from Ke'e Beach to Hanakapiai Beach, with a rougher side trip to impressive Hanakapiai Falls, in Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park on the island of Kauai. To reach Hanakapiai Valley's waterfall, follow the signed clay trails for a moderately strenuous 8.8 miles round trip with 2200 feet cumulative gain (measured on my GPS), and bring plenty of fresh water. I recommend boots with sturdy tread, hiking poles, plus water shoes for the several stream crossings. Arrive early to get parking at the trailhead in Haena State Park at the end of the Kuhio Highway (Hawaii Route 560). The gorgeous Kalalau Trail was built in the late 1800s to connect Hawaiians living in the remote valleys. No permit is needed for day hiking to Hanakapiai Falls. But hikers going onwards from Hanakapiai Beach to Hanakoa and Kalalau Valleys require a camping permit from the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources (HDLNR).
    1701HAW-1005.jpg
  • Stay in a pension under the impressive Tymfi Massif, in Vikos village, Zagoria, north Pindus Mountains (Pindos or Pindhos), Epirus/Epiros, Greece, Europe. The northeast wall of Vikos Gorge is Mount Tymfi (or Greek: , also transliterated Timfi, Tymphe, or Tymphi), near the 40 degree parallel. Tymfi forms a massif with its highest peak, Gamila, at 2497 meters (8192 feet), the sixth highest in Greece. Vikos Gorge in northern Greece is the world's deepest canyon in proportion to its width, and at one point measures 2950 feet (900 meters) deep and 3600 feet (1100 meters) wide from rim to rim. Its depth is an impressive 82% of its width at that cross-section (depth/width ratio=0.82). Gorges in many countries have higher depth/width ratio, but none are as deep. Zagori (Greek: ) is a region and a municipality in the Pindus mountains in Epirus, in northwestern Greece. Zagori contains 45 villages collectively known as Zagoria (Zagorochoria or Zagorohoria). Published in "Pindos: The National Park" (2010) by Alexander G. Tziolas, preface by Tom Dempsey et al, ISBN 978-960-98795-3-8.
    01GRE-32-26_Vikos_Tymfi-Massif_Zagor...jpg
  • Stay in a pension under the impressive Tymfi Massif, in Vikos village, Zagoria, north Pindus Mountains (Pindos or Pindhos), Epirus/Epiros, Greece, Europe. The northeast wall of Vikos Gorge is Mount Tymfi (or Greek: , also transliterated Timfi, Tymphe, or Tymphi), near the 40 degree parallel. Tymfi forms a massif with its highest peak, Gamila, at 2497 meters (8192 feet), the sixth highest in Greece. Vikos Gorge in northern Greece is the world's deepest canyon in proportion to its width, and at one point measures 2950 feet (900 meters) deep and 3600 feet (1100 meters) wide from rim to rim. Its depth is an impressive 82% of its width at that cross-section (depth/width ratio=0.82). Gorges in many countries have higher depth/width ratio, but none are as deep. Zagori (Greek: ) is a region and a municipality in the Pindus mountains in Epirus, in northwestern Greece. Zagori contains 45 villages collectively known as Zagoria (Zagorochoria or Zagorohoria).
    01GRE-32-35_Vikos-hotel_Tymfi-Massif.jpg
  • Trail tunnel hewn through rock in Höllentalklamm (Valley of Hell Gorge) in Grainau, Bavaria, Germany, Europe. Höllentalklamm (Valley of Hell Gorge) is a great natural wonder in Bavaria, Germany. This popular slot canyon is cradled within Höllental (Valley of Hell), a large cirque on Zugspitze (2,962 meters), the highest peak of Germany and of the Wetterstein Mountains. Many hike Höllentalklamm directly from Hammersbach hamlet in Grainau (7.1 miles round trip, with 2800 feet gain and loss). But a more panoramic route starts from atop Kreuzeckbahn cable car and adds a thrilling ledge trail into the Valley of Hell (8.7 miles round trip accumulating 760 feet up and 3470 feet down, including Schwarzenkopf peak). Directions: In Garmisch-Partenkirchen, park in the pay lot and ride the Kreuzeckbahn cable car (not the adjacent Alpspitzbahn). Walk to Hupfleitenjoch saddle. Optionally ascend a steep side trail to Schwarzenkopf peak for a 360-degree panorama (adds 200 feet gain, 0.4 miles round trip). From Hupfleitenjoch, switchback on via ledges into the impressive Höllental, passing unmanaged huts at Knappenhäusern. More ledges lead down to Höllentalangerhütte, a mountain hut with good lunch and impressive views of the Wetterstein mountains (including Zugspitze, Kleine Riffelwandspitze, Riffeltorkopf, Schönangerspitze). Further below, hikers enter the top of the kilometer-long Höllental Gorge, whose twisty stairs and tunnels were built from 1902 to 1905. Follow signs to Hammersbach über Klamm and to Höllentalklamm. When given a choice, pick the outside path to see more of the tumbling stream, instead of taking the tight tunnels. Cross the Eiserne Brücke footbridge. Pay a fee upon exiting the gorge. Walk by Höllentaleingangshütte, winding down to Hammersbach village. Follow signs back to Kreuzeckbahn valley station.
    20230718_130749.jpg
  • Trail tunnel hewn through rock in Höllentalklamm (Valley of Hell Gorge) in Grainau, Bavaria, Germany, Europe. Höllentalklamm (Valley of Hell Gorge) is a great natural wonder in Bavaria, Germany. This popular slot canyon is cradled within Höllental (Valley of Hell), a large cirque on Zugspitze (2,962 meters), the highest peak of Germany and of the Wetterstein Mountains. Many hike Höllentalklamm directly from Hammersbach hamlet in Grainau (7.1 miles round trip, with 2800 feet gain and loss). But a more panoramic route starts from atop Kreuzeckbahn cable car and adds a thrilling ledge trail into the Valley of Hell (8.7 miles round trip accumulating 760 feet up and 3470 feet down, including Schwarzenkopf peak). Directions: In Garmisch-Partenkirchen, park in the pay lot and ride the Kreuzeckbahn cable car (not the adjacent Alpspitzbahn). Walk to Hupfleitenjoch saddle. Optionally ascend a steep side trail to Schwarzenkopf peak for a 360-degree panorama (adds 200 feet gain, 0.4 miles round trip). From Hupfleitenjoch, switchback on via ledges into the impressive Höllental, passing unmanaged huts at Knappenhäusern. More ledges lead down to Höllentalangerhütte, a mountain hut with good lunch and impressive views of the Wetterstein mountains (including Zugspitze, Kleine Riffelwandspitze, Riffeltorkopf, Schönangerspitze). Further below, hikers enter the top of the kilometer-long Höllental Gorge, whose twisty stairs and tunnels were built from 1902 to 1905. Follow signs to Hammersbach über Klamm and to Höllentalklamm. When given a choice, pick the outside path to see more of the tumbling stream, instead of taking the tight tunnels. Cross the Eiserne Brücke footbridge. Pay a fee upon exiting the gorge. Walk by Höllentaleingangshütte, winding down to Hammersbach village. Follow signs back to Kreuzeckbahn valley station.
    23.07ALPS-1114.jpg
  • Waterfall view, Höllentalklamm (Valley of Hell Gorge) trail, Hammersbach stream, Grainau, Bavaria, Germany, Europe. Höllentalklamm (Valley of Hell Gorge) is a great natural wonder in Bavaria, Germany. This popular slot canyon is cradled within Höllental (Valley of Hell), a large cirque on Zugspitze (2,962 meters), the highest peak of Germany and of the Wetterstein Mountains. Many hike Höllentalklamm directly from Hammersbach hamlet in Grainau (7.1 miles round trip, with 2800 feet gain and loss). But a more panoramic route starts from atop Kreuzeckbahn cable car and adds a thrilling ledge trail into the Valley of Hell (8.7 miles round trip accumulating 760 feet up and 3470 feet down, including Schwarzenkopf peak). Directions: In Garmisch-Partenkirchen, park in the pay lot and ride the Kreuzeckbahn cable car (not the adjacent Alpspitzbahn). Walk to Hupfleitenjoch saddle. Optionally ascend a steep side trail to Schwarzenkopf peak for a 360-degree panorama (adds 200 feet gain, 0.4 miles round trip). From Hupfleitenjoch, switchback on via ledges into the impressive Höllental, passing unmanaged huts at Knappenhäusern. More ledges lead down to Höllentalangerhütte, a mountain hut with good lunch and impressive views of the Wetterstein mountains (including Zugspitze, Kleine Riffelwandspitze, Riffeltorkopf, Schönangerspitze). Further below, hikers enter the top of the kilometer-long Höllental Gorge, whose twisty stairs and tunnels were built from 1902 to 1905. Follow signs to Hammersbach über Klamm and to Höllentalklamm. When given a choice, pick the outside path to see more of the tumbling stream, instead of taking the tight tunnels. Cross the Eiserne Brücke footbridge. Pay a fee upon exiting the gorge. Walk by Höllentaleingangshütte, winding down to Hammersbach village. Follow signs back to Kreuzeckbahn valley station.
    23.07ALPS-1089.jpg
  • Harbor boats. Nachikatsuura, Higashimuro District, Wakayama Prefecture, Japan. The impressive Kumano Nachi Taisha, one of the three Kumano Shrines, is just 20 minutes by bus from Nachi Station. These shrines form part of the "Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range" UNESCO World Heritage Site. In Nachikatsuura, don't miss the impressive tuna market auction at 7:00am, easily viewed from above in the open public gallery. (In contrast, Tokyo's restrictive early morning fish auction at Toyosu Market limits viewers via registration and a wall of glass). Japan is the world's biggest consumer of tuna.
    1810JPN-6217.jpg
  • Beautiful Hanakapiai Falls (300 feet high) is a slippery side trip from Kalalau Trail, on Na Pali Coast, Kauai, Hawaii, USA. A stunning day hike along the Kalalau Trail goes from Ke'e Beach to Hanakapiai Beach, with a rougher side trip to impressive Hanakapiai Falls, in Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park on the island of Kauai. To reach Hanakapiai Valley's waterfall, follow the signed clay trails for a moderately strenuous 8.8 miles round trip with 2200 feet cumulative gain (measured on my GPS). Bring plenty of fresh water. I recommend boots with sturdy tread, hiking poles, plus water shoes for the several stream crossings. Arrive early to get parking at the trailhead in Haena State Park at the end of the Kuhio Highway (Hawaii Route 560). The gorgeous Kalalau Trail was built in the late 1800s to connect Hawaiians living in the remote valleys. No permit is needed for day hiking to Hanakapiai Falls. But hikers going onwards from Hanakapiai Beach to Hanakoa and Kalalau Valleys require a camping permit from the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources (HDLNR). This image was stitched from multiple overlapping images.
    1701HAW-1040-46-Pano.jpg
  • Beautiful Hanakapiai Falls (300 feet high) is a slippery side trip from Kalalau Trail, on Na Pali Coast, Kauai, Hawaii, USA. A stunning day hike along the Kalalau Trail goes from Ke'e Beach to Hanakapiai Beach, with a rougher side trip to impressive Hanakapiai Falls, in Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park on the island of Kauai. To reach Hanakapiai Valley's waterfall, follow the signed clay trails for a moderately strenuous 8.8 miles round trip with 2200 feet cumulative gain (measured on my GPS). Bring plenty of fresh water. I recommend boots with sturdy tread, hiking poles, plus water shoes for the several stream crossings. Arrive early to get parking at the trailhead in Haena State Park at the end of the Kuhio Highway (Hawaii Route 560). The gorgeous Kalalau Trail was built in the late 1800s to connect Hawaiians living in the remote valleys. No permit is needed for day hiking to Hanakapiai Falls. But hikers going onwards from Hanakapiai Beach to Hanakoa and Kalalau Valleys require a camping permit from the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources (HDLNR).
    1701HAW-1060.jpg
  • A purple flower of Aconitum genus (aka aconite, monkshood, wolf's-bane, in the family Ranunculaceae) at Bachalpsee. From Grindelwald, we took the First gondola to Bort, then hiked via First to Berghotel Faulhorn (6 miles with 3650 feet ascent, 130 ft descent) to stay for an impressive sunset and sunrise, in Switzerland, Europe. (Or save effort by starting at First instead of Bort.) Berghotel Faulhorn was built in 1830, one of the oldest mountain hotels in the Alps. Earplugs are recommended for sleeping, as the old walls are thin. Perched on a remote precipice, Berghotel Faulhorn has flush toilets, but no drinking-water supply, nor guest showers. To save money, carry extra liters of drinking water from Grindelwald. In 2022, Berghotel Faulhorn charged 4 CHF per liter for hikers' tea, and 12 CHF per 1.5-liter bottle of drinking water. The hut's roof-gathered water is undrinkable (and our squeeze-filter didn't remove the bad taste). For personal hygiene, cold water is provided in the dormitory washroom, and the private rooms have nostalgic water jugs and bowls.
    22ALP-10445.jpg
  • The Schreckhorn seen from a trail near First gondola, Grindelwald, Switzerland, Europe. From Grindelwald, we took the First gondola to Bort, then hiked via First to Berghotel Faulhorn (6 miles with 3650 feet ascent, 130 ft descent) to stay for an impressive sunset and sunrise.. (Or save effort by starting at First instead of Bort.) Berghotel Faulhorn was built in 1830, one of the oldest mountain hotels in the Alps. Earplugs are recommended for sleeping, as the old walls are thin. Perched on a remote precipice, Berghotel Faulhorn has flush toilets, but no drinking-water supply, nor guest showers. To save money, carry extra liters of drinking water from Grindelwald. In 2022, Berghotel Faulhorn charged 4 CHF per liter for hikers' tea, and 12 CHF per 1.5-liter bottle of drinking water. The hut's roof-gathered water is undrinkable (and our squeeze-filter didn't remove the bad taste). For personal hygiene, cold water is provided in the dormitory washroom, and the private rooms have nostalgic water jugs and bowls.
    22ALP-10375-Pano.jpg
  • Hotel Rosenlaui (built 1862), Meiringen, Switzerland, Europe. Swiss Via Alpina (National Route 1), Day 8: From Hotel Victoria in Meiringen, we walked 0.8 miles to the Reichenbachfallbahn, a funicular which ascends to a viewpoint between the lower and upper Reichenbach Falls. This impressive series of cascades plunges 820 feet. Then we hiked uphill to Schwartzwaldalp (6 miles, 2000 feet gain), where we caught the PostBus over the pass of Grosse Scheidegg to reach Hotel Gletschergarten in Grindelwald, Switzerland, Europe. Fictional Sherlock Holmes and his nemesis Professor Moriarty died after they fell while fighting from a ledge by the 320-foot upper falls. After 10 years of reader complaints, author Sir Arthur Conan Doyle resurrected Holmes in a short story where the famous detective reappeared and told his astonished friend Dr. Watson about faking his own death to fool his enemies.
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  • Heyburn Mountain and other impressive peaks of the Sawtooth Wilderness reflect in Little Redfish Lake in Sawtooth National Recreation Area, Blaine County, Idaho, USA. The Sawtooth Range (part of the Rocky Mountains) are made of pink granite of the 50 million year old Sawtooth batholith. Sawtooth Wilderness, managed by the US Forest Service within Sawtooth National Recreation Area, has some of the best air quality in the lower 48 states (says the US EPA), except when compromised by forest fires.
    20.10US1-1278.jpg
  • Heyburn Mountain and other impressive peaks of the Sawtooth Wilderness reflect in Little Redfish Lake in Sawtooth National Recreation Area, Blaine County, Idaho, USA. The Sawtooth Range (part of the Rocky Mountains) are made of pink granite of the 50 million year old Sawtooth batholith. Sawtooth Wilderness, managed by the US Forest Service within Sawtooth National Recreation Area, has some of the best air quality in the lower 48 states (says the US EPA), except when compromised by forest fires.
    20.10US1-1198.jpg
  • Visit the impressive Marble Chapel Nature Sanctuary (Capillas de Mármol) via popular boat tours from Bahía Manso on General Carrera Lake, near Puerto Rio Tranquilo, Chile, Patagonia, South America. This beautiful Chilean Nature Sanctuary sculpted by water and wind has three main geological formations: the Cathedral, the Chapel, and the Cave. You can join a Marble Caves tour in Puerto Río Tranquilo; or save money and time by driving directly 8 km south to Bahía Manso, via a pot-holed very steep side road, where we spontaneously joined a 2-hour tour boat on short notice. The best time is a sunny summer morning in calmer waters. The side road to Bahía Manso was nervously passable with our 2-wheel-drive compact car, but 4WD might be required to return back up if wet.
    2002PAT-1308.jpg
  • Sandstone walls tower above Spring Canyon in Capitol Reef NP, Torrey, Utah, USA. In Capitol Reef National Park, we hiked impressive sandstone gorges from Chimney Rock Trailhead over to Spring Canyon and down to a car shuttle at Highway 24 (10 miles one way with 1100 ft descent and 370 ft gain).
    1909US1-8781.jpg
  • Spring Canyon slot in Capitol Reef NP, Torrey, Utah, USA. In Capitol Reef National Park, we hiked impressive sandstone gorges from Chimney Rock Trailhead over to Spring Canyon and down to a car shuttle at Highway 24 (10 miles one way with 1100 ft descent and 370 ft gain), Torrey, Utah, USA.
    1909US1-8631.jpg
  • Kayakers paddle an attractive bend in the river, on the Pororari River Track in Paparoa National Park, between Westport and Greymouth in the West Coast region of New Zealand's South Island. The track follows an impressive limestone gorge along the river with big rocks set in deep pools, through strikingly beautiful forest subtly transitioning between subtropical and temperate ecozones. Pororari River flows northwest from its sources in the Paparoa Range to reach the Tasman Sea at Punakaiki. Stroll 1 km to a seat overlooking an attractive river bend. At about 3.5 km turn left at the Inland Pack Track to soon reach the swing bridge, a good turnaround point.
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  • Tuna auction in Nachikatsuura, Higashimuro District, Wakayama Prefecture, Japan. In Nachikatsuura, don't miss the impressive tuna market auction at 7:00am, easily viewed from above in the open public gallery. (In contrast, Tokyo's restrictive early morning fish auction at Toyosu Market limits viewers via registration and a wall of glass). Japan is the world's biggest consumer of tuna.
    1810JPN-5553.jpg
  • Fall foliage colors at Kirifuri Waterfall (Kirifuri no taki, "falling mist"), an impressive, 75 meter high, two-tiered waterfall below the Kirifuri Highlands, a few kilometers northeast of the temples and shrines of Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture, Japan. Foliage colors turn red, orange and gold in autumn, best around late October to early November. Walk 10 minutes to the observation deck from the parking lot and bus stop, near two restaurants and public toilets.
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  • Courtyard panorama. Tamozawa Imperial Villa (Tamozawa Goyotei) blends traditional Edo and early modern Meiji Period architecture throughout its 106 rooms. The villa was erected in Nikko in 1899, using parts of a residence that originally stood in Tokyo, Japan. Before being moved to Nikko, the building served initially as the Tokyo residence of a branch of the Tokugawa family and was later temporarily used as the Imperial Palace. In Nikko, it was enlarged into a summer residence and retreat for the Imperial Family, but suffered neglect after World War II. In 2000, the villa was opened to the public after extensive renovation works. Tamozawa Imperial Villa is one of the largest remaining wooden buildings in Japan. The interior of the villa is a curious mix of Japanese and Western styles: many floors are carpeted and elaborate chandeliers hang from the ceilings, yet Japanese elements include sliding paper doors and tatami flooring. Although still impressive in size and grandeur, Tamozawa Imperial Villa currently occupies only one third of its original area. It now functions as a museum and memorial park. This image was stitched from multiple overlapping photos.
    1810JPN-3385-p1-Pano.jpg
  • Art work on large sliding screens. Tamozawa Imperial Villa (Tamozawa Goyotei) blends traditional Edo and early modern Meiji Period architecture throughout its 106 rooms. The villa was erected in Nikko in 1899, using parts of a residence that originally stood in Tokyo, Japan. Before being moved to Nikko, the building served initially as the Tokyo residence of a branch of the Tokugawa family and was later temporarily used as the Imperial Palace. In Nikko, it was enlarged into a summer residence and retreat for the Imperial Family, but suffered neglect after World War II. In 2000, the villa was opened to the public after extensive renovation works. Tamozawa Imperial Villa is one of the largest remaining wooden buildings in Japan. The interior of the villa is a curious mix of Japanese and Western styles: many floors are carpeted and elaborate chandeliers hang from the ceilings, yet Japanese elements include sliding paper doors and tatami flooring. Although still impressive in size and grandeur, Tamozawa Imperial Villa currently occupies only one third of its original area. It now functions as a museum and memorial park.
    1810JPN-3359.jpg
  • Painted Celtic cross inside 1400s Comlongon Castle, a restored Medieval Scottish tower house dating from the late 1400s. Guests can stay in the attached Edwardian hotel, a baronial style mansion built 1900-02, set in 120 acres of manicured gardens, sweeping lawns, carp pond, lakes and woodlands, near Clarencefield and Dumfries, in southwest Scotland, United Kingdom, Europe. Originally built by the Murrays of Cockpool, Comlongon Castle remained in the Murray family until 1984. The castle is 50 feet square and stands 70 feet high, with walls over 4 meters thick, with impressive displays of weapons, armor and banners.
    17SC1-1202_Scotland.jpg
  • Craster village harbor. Walk 3 miles round trip from Craster village to the impressive ruins of 1300s Dunstanburgh Castle on the coast of Northumberland, England, United Kingdom, Europe. The castle was built by Earl Thomas of Lancaster between 1313-1322 on existing earthworks of an Iron Age fort. Thomas was a short-lived leader of a baronial faction opposed to King Edward II. This strategic northern stronghold never recovered from seiges during the Wars of the Roses 1455-1487 after it changed hands several times between rival Lancastrian and Yorkist factions. King James I sold the fort into private ownership in 1604. Dunstanburgh Castle is now owned by the National Trust and run by English Heritage.
    17UK2-5332.jpg
  • Eroding stone notch. Walk 3 miles round trip from Craster village to the impressive ruins of 1300s Dunstanburgh Castle on the coast of Northumberland, England, United Kingdom, Europe. The castle was built by Earl Thomas of Lancaster between 1313-1322 on existing earthworks of an Iron Age fort. Thomas was a short-lived leader of a baronial faction opposed to King Edward II. This strategic northern stronghold never recovered from seiges during the Wars of the Roses 1455-1487 after it changed hands several times between rival Lancastrian and Yorkist factions. King James I sold the fort into private ownership in 1604. Dunstanburgh Castle is now owned by the National Trust and run by English Heritage.
    17UK2-5317.jpg
  • Signs where Hanakapiai Falls Trail branches from Kalalau Trail, on Na Pali Coast, Kauai, Hawaii, USA. A beautiful day hike along the slippery Kalalau Trail goes from Ke'e Beach to Hanakapiai Beach, with a rougher side trip to impressive Hanakapiai Falls, in Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park on the island of Kauai. To reach Hanakapiai Valley's waterfall, follow the signed clay trails for a moderately strenuous 8.8 miles round trip with 2200 feet cumulative gain (measured on my GPS), and bring plenty of fresh water. I recommend boots with sturdy tread, hiking poles, plus water shoes for the several stream crossings. Arrive early to get parking at the trailhead in Haena State Park at the end of the Kuhio Highway (Hawaii Route 560). The gorgeous Kalalau Trail was built in the late 1800s to connect Hawaiians living in the remote valleys. No permit is needed for day hiking to Hanakapiai Falls. But hikers going onwards from Hanakapiai Beach to Hanakoa and Kalalau Valleys require a camping permit from the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources (HDLNR).
    1701HAW-0972.jpg
  • Tropical plants frame a coastal view of where Hanakapiai Valley enters the Pacific Ocean. A beautiful day hike along the slippery Kalalau Trail goes from Ke'e Beach to Hanakapiai Beach, with a rougher side trip to impressive Hanakapiai Falls, in Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park on the island of Kauai, Hawaii, USA. To reach Hanakapiai Valley's waterfall, follow the signed clay trails for a moderately strenuous 8.8 miles round trip with 2200 feet cumulative gain (measured on my GPS), and bring plenty of fresh water. I recommend boots with sturdy tread, hiking poles, plus water shoes for the several stream crossings. Arrive early to get parking at the trailhead in Haena State Park at the end of the Kuhio Highway (Hawaii Route 560). The gorgeous Kalalau Trail was built in the late 1800s to connect Hawaiians living in the remote valleys. No permit is needed for day hiking to Hanakapiai Falls. But hikers going onwards from Hanakapiai Beach to Hanakoa and Kalalau Valleys require a camping permit from the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources (HDLNR).
    1701HAW-0949.jpg
  • Hawaii's native Hala tree is also known as Tahitian Screwpine, Pu Hala, Screw Pine, Textile Screwpine, Thatch Screwpine, Pandanus, Pandan, Tourist Pineapple or Pineapple Tree (Pandanus tectorius, or synonyms: P. chamissonis, P. douglasii, P. menziesii, P. odoratissimus; in the Screw-pine family, Pandanaceae). Some people mistake hala fruit heads for pineapples, which are unrelated plants. Cultivated varieties of Hala differing from the native version were brought to Hawaii by the ancient Polynesians in their canoes. Hala was useful for medicinal purposes, and the fruit was eaten and used to make leis. Its roots could make cordage. Hala leaves served as thatch and could be stripped of spiny edges to be woven or plaited into mats, pillows, sails, baskets, hats, sandals, and fans. A beautiful day hike along the slippery Kalalau Trail goes from Ke'e Beach to Hanakapiai Beach, with a rougher side trip to impressive Hanakapiai Falls, in Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park on the island of Kauai, Hawaii, USA. To reach Hanakapiai Valley's waterfall, follow the signed clay trails for a moderately strenuous 8.8 miles round trip with 2200 feet cumulative gain (measured on my GPS)
    1701HAW-0899.jpg
  • The Munot, Schaffhausen's iconic circular fortress, was built by forced labor in 1564 after the religious wars of the Reformation. A steep stairway climbs from Old Town through vineyards to reach this impressive Renaissance castle. Inside the tower, ascend the spiral staircase for views over a patchwork of rooftops and spires to the Rhine and forested hills. Down in the lower chamber, explore a spectacular, cool vaulted casemate. Schaffhausen, Switzerland, Europe.
    16SWI-0475.jpg
  • Munot Castle rises above a cruise boat on the Rhine River in Schaffhausen, Switzerland, Europe. Schaffhausen's iconic circular fortress, was built by forced labor in 1564 after the religious wars of the Reformation. A steep stairway climbs from Old Town through vineyards to reach this impressive Renaissance castle. Inside the tower, ascend the spiral staircase for views over a patchwork of rooftops and spires to the Rhine and forested hills. Down in the lower chamber, explore a spectacular, cool vaulted casemate.
    16SWI-0427.jpg
  • Munot Castle rises above a cruise boat on the Rhine River in Schaffhausen, Switzerland, Europe. Schaffhausen's iconic circular fortress, was built by forced labor in 1564 after the religious wars of the Reformation. A steep stairway climbs from Old Town through vineyards to reach this impressive Renaissance castle. Inside the tower, ascend the spiral staircase for views over a patchwork of rooftops and spires to the Rhine and forested hills. Down in the lower chamber, explore a spectacular, cool vaulted casemate.
    16SWI-0426.jpg
  • From Chimney View Overlook in Linville Gorge Wilderness Area, see vivid fall foliage colors in mid October. Walk to see impressive Linville Falls in Burke County, Pisgah National Forest, North Carolina, USA. Linville Falls drop 90 feet in a multi-level cascade, viewable from several overlooks along two trails starting from Linville Falls Visitors Center, run by the National Park Service. Directions: Turn eastwards at Mile Post 316.3 of the Blue Ridge Parkway (north of where US 221 crosses the Parkway and south of where NC 181 crosses). Linville River begins at Grandfather Mountain and enters the 12-mile Linville Gorge at Linville Falls. Linville Gorge, near the town of Linville Falls (66 miles north of Asheville), is the deepest and one of the most rugged and scenic gorges in the Eastern USA (qualifying for the nickname Grand Canyon of the East, along with more than a dozen chasms likewise tagged in other Eastern states). It is protected by Linville Gorge Wilderness Area, within Pisgah National Forest. Spared by its rugged terrain from clear-cutting in the early 1900s, Linville Gorge has some of the best remnant stands of uncut, old-growth forest in the southern Appalachians. This is one of the few places where the Rosebay, Catawba, and Carolina rhododendron grow side by side.
    1510SE-5041-p2_Linville-Gorge-Wilder...jpg
  • See impressive views of the Blue Ridge Mountains from the top of Waterrock Knob Trail. Start walking from the scenic National Park Visitor Center at Waterrock Knob, at Blue Ridge Parkway Milepost 451 in North Carolina, USA. Hike breathlessly 1.2 miles round trip with 400 feet gain to the summit of Waterrock Knob (elevation 6292 feet), the highest peak of the Plott Balsam Range, which is part of the Blue Ridge Mountains, a subset of the Appalachians. Local trees release hydrocarbons into the atmosphere and create a characteristic blue haze on pristine days as seen in this photo; but more often a white or gray haze obscures distant views due to air pollution. The 469-mile Blue Ridge Parkway connects Shenandoah National Park (in Virginia) with Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina, following ridge crestlines and the Appalachian Trail. This panorama was stitched from 14 overlapping photos.
    1510SE-1600-13pan_Waterrock-Knob_NC.jpg
  • From Upper Falls Overlook, see Linville River funnel down a turbulent chute which empties into Lower Falls hidden around the corner. Walk to see impressive Linville Falls, in Burke County, Pisgah National Forest, North Carolina, USA. Linville Falls drop 90 feet in a multi-level cascade, viewable from several overlooks along two trails starting from Linville Falls Visitors Center, run by the National Park Service. Directions: Turn eastwards at Mile Post 316.3 of the Blue Ridge Parkway (north of where US 221 crosses the Parkway and south of where NC 181 crosses). Linville River begins at Grandfather Mountain and enters the 12-mile Linville Gorge at Linville Falls. Linville Gorge, near the town of Linville Falls (66 miles north of Asheville), is the deepest and one of the most rugged and scenic gorges in the Eastern USA (qualifying for the nickname Grand Canyon of the East, along with more than a dozen chasms likewise tagged in other Eastern states). It is protected by Linville Gorge Wilderness Area, within Pisgah National Forest. Spared by its rugged terrain from clear-cutting in the early 1900s, Linville Gorge has some of the best remnant stands of uncut, old-growth forest in the southern Appalachians. This is one of the few places where the Rosebay, Catawba, and Carolina rhododendron grow side by side.
    1510SE-1156_Linville-Falls.jpg
  • An impressive array of pyramidal peaks reflect in the creek inlet to Chickenfoot Lake in Little Lakes Valley, John Muir Wilderness, Inyo National Forest, Sierra Nevada, California, USA. Enjoy an easy, very rewarding hike from Mosquito Flat through Little Lakes Valley to Chickenfoot Lake and Gem Lakes. To reach the trailhead, turn off Highway 395 at Toms Place (15 miles south of Mammoth Junction) onto paved Rock Creek Road, and drive 10.5 miles to the end. We hiked the moderate trail to Morgan Pass, 7.5 miles round trip with 1250 feet cumulative gain; but you should skip the left turn to redundant Morgan Pass and instead turn right to visit the pretty Gem Lakes. This panorama was stitched from 4 overlapping photos.
    1507CAL-2293-96pan.jpg
  • Corona Arch Trail, on BLM federal land near Moab, Utah, USA. Hike 3 miles round trip up Bootlegger Canyon to the half-freestanding Corona Arch, also called Little Rainbow Bridge, which has an impressive opening of 140 feet wide by 105 feet high. The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is an agency within the United States Department of the Interior that administers American public lands.
    1403UT-345_Corona-Arch.jpg
  • The impressive Fisher Towers are eroded from Cutler sandstone capped with Moenkopi sandstone, on BLM federal land near Moab, Utah, USA. Hike the Fisher Towers Trail 4.5 miles round trip with 800 feet gain. The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is an agency within the United States Department of the Interior that administers American public lands.
    1403UT-051_Fisher-Towers_Utah.jpg
  • Hike to Lake Coldai on Monte Civetta, in the Dolomites, Belluno province, Veneto region, Italy, Europe. From Alleghe village, take a scenic lift to hikes on impressive Monte Civetta (3220 meters or 10,564 feet elevation). 200 million years ago, Triassic coral reefs fossilized into Dolomite. Collision of tectonic plates lifted the Dolomites within the Southern Limestone Alps. UNESCO honored the Dolomites as a natural World Heritage Site in 2009. This panorama was stitched from 8 overlapping photos.
    13ITA-20121-28pan_Monte-Civetta.jpg
  • Visit Perito Moreno Glacier in Los Glaciares National Park as a day trip from El Calafate, in southwest Santa Cruz province, Argentina. Easy boardwalks give wide views of Moreno Glacier, an impressive wall of ice 200 feet high and 3 miles (5 km) wide flowing into Lake Argentina. The glacier flows up to 2300 feet thick and originates in the huge Hielo Sur (Southern Icefield) in the southern Andes mountains. For the past 90 years, its advancing has equaled melting (up to 2 meters per day, 700 meters per year), and the terminus has stayed at one location. Flowing ice periodically dams an arm of the lake which rises for a few years then breaks across the nose of the glacier as a crashing river (in March 2004 and 1991). In this 2005 photo, a narrow river flowed across the glacier face which calved large chunks of ice into the water with a loud crash several times per day. The foot of South America is known as Patagonia, a name derived from coastal giants, Patagão or Patagoni, who were reported by Magellan's 1520s voyage circumnavigating the world and were actually Tehuelche native people who averaged 25 cm (or 10 inches) taller than the Spaniards.
    05ARG-40092-p1.jpg
  • Visit Perito Moreno Glacier in Los Glaciares National Park as a day trip from El Calafate, in southwest Santa Cruz province, Argentina. Easy boardwalks give wide views of Moreno Glacier, an impressive wall of ice 200 feet high and 3 miles (5 km) wide flowing into Lake Argentina. The glacier flows up to 2300 feet thick and originates in the huge Hielo Sur (Southern Icefield) in the southern Andes mountains. For the past 90 years, its advancing has equaled melting (up to 2 meters per day, 700 meters per year), and the terminus has stayed at one location. Flowing ice periodically dams an arm of the lake which rises for a few years then breaks across the nose of the glacier as a crashing river (in March 2004 and 1991). In this 2005 photo, a narrow river flowed across the glacier face which calved large chunks of ice into the water with a loud crash several times per day. The foot of South America is known as Patagonia, a name derived from coastal giants, Patagão or Patagoni, who were reported by Magellan's 1520s voyage circumnavigating the world and were actually Tehuelche native people who averaged 25 cm (or 10 inches) taller than the Spaniards.
    05ARG-40041.jpg
  • Carved rock forms an abstract puma shape at Qenko. The large limestone outcrop of Qenko was an important Inca huaca (or waqa, a revered object, in Quechua language). Qenko is a 20 minute walk from Sacsayhuaman, on Socorro hill, 4 km from Cuzco (Cusco or Qosqo), in Peru, South America. Beneath Qenko are several tunnels and caves, replete with impressive carved niches and steps, which may have been places for spiritual contemplation and communication with the forces of life and earth. Qenko was carved with a complex pattern of steps, seats, geometric reliefs, and puma designs. The name Qenko derives from the Quechua word quenqo, meaning "labyrinth" or "zigzag," referring to patterns laboriously carved into the upper, western edge of the stone. The three main layers of the Inca cosmos are: sky (condor), earth (puma), and the underworld (snake).
    03PER-02-02_Qenko-Cave-puma-2.jpg
  • Shree Airlines helicopter. On a hill overlooking Namche Bazaar, Shyangboche Airstrip (3750 meters or 12,303 feet) can be reached by helicopter but is generally not used by fixed wing aircraft due to the loose pebble surface. Many trekkers get up before sunrise and walk up to the Sagarmatha National Park Headquarters near here to take in the impressive views of Mount Everest, Lhotse, Thamserku, Ama Dablam (6856 m or 22,493 ft). Sagarmatha National Park (created 1976) was honored as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979.
    07NEP-3282.jpg
  • Ferry boats make wake patterns in Geirangerfjorden (the Geiranger fjord), a stunningly beautiful 15-kilometer (9.3-mile) long branch of Storfjord (Great Fjord, the fifth longest in Norway). Geirangerfjord is one of Norway's most visited tourist sites and has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2005. Take the car ferry for an impressive sightseeing trip between Geiranger and Hellesylt, in Stranda municipality, Sunnmøre region, Møre og Romsdal county, Norway.
    11NOR-2630.jpg
  • Brushes have frozen in wax at the Watercolor and Beeswax Encaustic Studio of Deborah Stachowic, at the historic Rainier Cold Center, 5626 Airport Way S, Seattle, Washington 98108-2710.  Deborah Stachowic's studio is in an 1890's registered historic building south of downtown Seattle, in the historic Georgetown area. This venerable building lies sandwiched between Airport Way South (formerly a gravel road) and train tracks at the back. The Rainier Beer Company originally used this building as Rainier Cold Storage, and it retains impressive 18-inch thick wooden braces and beams. In the past, horses pulled beer wagons up ramps right into the building, through the large loading dock doors that now enter my studio! Nowadays many artists have moved in and converted the building into a beehive of creativity, with stimulating interaction between different disciplines.
    0807GEO-54_Georgetown-paints.jpg
  • Afternoon view of Lake Brienz from Berghotel Faulhorn, in Switzerland, the Alps, Europe. From Grindelwald, we took the First gondola to Bort, then hiked via First to Berghotel Faulhorn (6 miles with 3650 feet ascent, 130 ft descent) to stay for an impressive sunset and sunrise. (Or save effort by starting at First instead of Bort.) Berghotel Faulhorn was built in 1830, one of the oldest mountain hotels in the Alps. Earplugs are recommended for sleeping, as the old walls are thin. Perched on a remote precipice, Berghotel Faulhorn has flush toilets, but no drinking-water supply, nor guest showers. To save money, carry extra liters of drinking water from Grindelwald. In 2022, Berghotel Faulhorn charged 4 CHF per liter for hikers' tea, and 12 CHF per 1.5-liter bottle of drinking water. The hut's roof-gathered water is undrinkable (and our squeeze-filter didn't remove the bad taste). For personal hygiene, cold water is provided in the dormitory washroom, and the private rooms have nostalgic water jugs and bowls.
    22ALP-10513-16-Pano.jpg
  • Hikers at Bachalpsee. From Grindelwald, we took the First gondola to Bort, then hiked via First to Berghotel Faulhorn (6 miles with 3650 feet ascent, 130 ft descent) to stay for an impressive sunset and sunrise, in Switzerland, Europe. (Or save effort by starting at First instead of Bort.) Berghotel Faulhorn was built in 1830, one of the oldest mountain hotels in the Alps. Earplugs are recommended for sleeping, as the old walls are thin. Perched on a remote precipice, Berghotel Faulhorn has flush toilets, but no drinking-water supply, nor guest showers. To save money, carry extra liters of drinking water from Grindelwald. In 2022, Berghotel Faulhorn charged 4 CHF per liter for hikers' tea, and 12 CHF per 1.5-liter bottle of drinking water. The hut's roof-gathered water is undrinkable (and our squeeze-filter didn't remove the bad taste). For personal hygiene, cold water is provided in the dormitory washroom, and the private rooms have nostalgic water jugs and bowls.
    22ALP-10423.jpg
  • Hiking near First gondola, Grindelwald, Switzerland, Europe. From Grindelwald, we took the First gondola to Bort, then hiked via First to Berghotel Faulhorn (6 miles with 3650 feet ascent, 130 ft descent) to stay for an impressive sunset and sunrise.. (Or save effort by starting at First instead of Bort.) Berghotel Faulhorn was built in 1830, one of the oldest mountain hotels in the Alps. Earplugs are recommended for sleeping, as the old walls are thin. Perched on a remote precipice, Berghotel Faulhorn has flush toilets, but no drinking-water supply, nor guest showers. To save money, carry extra liters of drinking water from Grindelwald. In 2022, Berghotel Faulhorn charged 4 CHF per liter for hikers' tea, and 12 CHF per 1.5-liter bottle of drinking water. The hut's roof-gathered water is undrinkable (and our squeeze-filter didn't remove the bad taste). For personal hygiene, cold water is provided in the dormitory washroom, and the private rooms have nostalgic water jugs and bowls. For this photo’s licensing options, please inquire.
    22ALP-10384.jpg
  • Hiking near Waldspitz above Grindelwald, in Switzerland, Europe. From Grindelwald, we took the First gondola to Bort, then hiked via First to Berghotel Faulhorn (6 miles with 3650 feet ascent, 130 ft descent) to stay for an impressive sunset and sunrisee. (Or save effort by starting at First instead of Bort.) Berghotel Faulhorn was built in 1830, one of the oldest mountain hotels in the Alps. Earplugs are recommended for sleeping, as the old walls are thin. Perched on a remote precipice, Berghotel Faulhorn has flush toilets, but no drinking-water supply, nor guest showers. To save money, carry extra liters of drinking water from Grindelwald. In 2022, Berghotel Faulhorn charged 4 CHF per liter for hikers' tea, and 12 CHF per 1.5-liter bottle of drinking water. The hut's roof-gathered water is undrinkable (and our squeeze-filter didn't remove the bad taste). For personal hygiene, cold water is provided in the dormitory washroom, and the private rooms have nostalgic water jugs and bowls.
    22ALP-10174-Pano.jpg
  • Heyburn Mountain and other impressive peaks of the Sawtooth Wilderness reflect in Little Redfish Lake in Sawtooth National Recreation Area, Blaine County, Idaho, USA. The Sawtooth Range (part of the Rocky Mountains) are made of pink granite of the 50 million year old Sawtooth batholith. Sawtooth Wilderness, managed by the US Forest Service within Sawtooth National Recreation Area, has some of the best air quality in the lower 48 states (says the US EPA), except when compromised by forest fires. This image was stitched from multiple overlapping photos.
    20.10US1-1202-1206-Pano.jpg
  • In Capitol Reef National Park, we hiked impressive sandstone gorges via Chimney Rock Loop trail plus a wonderful side trip down Chimney Rock Canyon as far as Spring Canyon (totalling 7 miles round trip with 1300 ft gain), near Torrey, Utah, USA.
    20.10US1-0318.jpg
  • Spegazzini Glacier. On Lake Argentino in Los Glaciares National Park, we enjoyed the Glaciers Gourmet Full Day Sightseeing Cruise on board the 'Maria Turquesa' in Santa Cruz Province, Argentina, Patagonia, South America. Starting from La Soledad private port, our ship cruised to the remote and impressive Spegazzini Glacier. Scientists say that nearly 90 percent of the glaciers in Antarctica and Patagonia are melting quickly (2009 data). Los Glaciares National Park is honored on UNESCO's World Heritage List. This image was stitched from multiple overlapping photos.
    2002PAT-2003-05-Pano.jpg
  • Visit the impressive Marble Chapel Nature Sanctuary (Capillas de Mármol) via popular boat tours from Bahía Manso on General Carrera Lake, near Puerto Rio Tranquilo, Chile, Patagonia, South America. This beautiful Chilean Nature Sanctuary sculpted by water and wind has three main geological formations: the Cathedral, the Chapel, and the Cave. You can join a Marble Caves tour in Puerto Río Tranquilo; or save money and time by driving directly 8 km south to Bahía Manso, via a pot-holed very steep side road, where we spontaneously joined a 2-hour tour boat on short notice. The best time is a sunny summer morning in calmer waters. The side road to Bahía Manso was nervously passable with our 2-wheel-drive compact car, but 4WD might be required to return back up if wet.
    2002PAT-1313.jpg
  • Visit the impressive Marble Chapel Nature Sanctuary (Capillas de Mármol) via popular boat tours from Bahía Manso on General Carrera Lake, near Puerto Rio Tranquilo, Chile, Patagonia, South America. This beautiful Chilean Nature Sanctuary sculpted by water and wind has three main geological formations: the Cathedral, the Chapel, and the Cave. You can join a Marble Caves tour in Puerto Río Tranquilo; or save money and time by driving directly 8 km south to Bahía Manso, via a pot-holed very steep side road, where we spontaneously joined a 2-hour tour boat on short notice. The best time is a sunny summer morning in calmer waters. The side road to Bahía Manso was nervously passable with our 2-wheel-drive compact car, but 4WD might be required to return back up if wet.
    2002PAT-1311.jpg
  • The impressive Patagonia National Park Visitor Center, near Cochrane. Patagonia National Park preserves the Chacabuco Valley, Patagonian steppe, lenga forest, and wetlands, located 180 miles south of Coyhaique, the regional capital of Aysen, in Chile, South America. The park is home to ten percent of the global population of huemul, the endangered south Andean deer. Intensive ranching on this former estancia caused overgrazing, but through restoration and rewilding, native grasslands have recovered and wildlife has returned. Top notch infrastructure includes a lodge, restaurant, visitor center and museums, as well as campgrounds and trails. Patagonia National Park consists of the Tompkins Conservation donation in addition to the former national reserves of Jeinimeni and Tamango, plus fiscal land. Parque Patagonia was created by Conservacion Patagonica, a nonprofit incorporated in California and founded in 2000 by Kris Tompkins. On January 29, 2018, Chilean President Michelle Bachelet and Kris Tompkins signed a decree creating 5 national parks, including Patagonia National Park.
    2002PAT-0908.jpg
  • Sandstone walls tower above Spring Canyon in Capitol Reef NP, Torrey, Utah, USA. In Capitol Reef National Park, we hiked impressive sandstone gorges from Chimney Rock Trailhead over to Spring Canyon and down to a car shuttle at Highway 24 (10 miles one way with 1100 ft descent and 370 ft gain).
    1909US1-8783.jpg
  • Orange-red sandstone wall patterns. In Capitol Reef National Park, we hiked impressive sandstone gorges from Chimney Rock Trailhead over to Spring Canyon and down to a car shuttle at Highway 24 (10 miles one way with 1100 ft descent and 370 ft gain), Torrey, Utah, USA.
    1909US1-8560.jpg
  • Orange-red sandstone wall patterns. In Capitol Reef National Park, we hiked impressive sandstone gorges from Chimney Rock Trailhead over to Spring Canyon and down to a car shuttle at Highway 24 (10 miles one way with 1100 ft descent and 370 ft gain), Torrey, Utah, USA.
    1909US1-8559.jpg
  • Sandstone walls tower above Spring Canyon in Capitol Reef NP, Torrey, Utah, USA. In Capitol Reef National Park, we hiked impressive sandstone gorges from Chimney Rock Trailhead over to Spring Canyon and down to a car shuttle at Highway 24 (10 miles one way with 1100 ft descent and 370 ft gain). This image was stitched from multiple overlapping photos.
    1909US1-8974-89-Pano.jpg
  • Tuna auction in Nachikatsuura, Higashimuro District, Wakayama Prefecture, Japan. In Nachikatsuura, don't miss the impressive tuna market auction at 7:00am, easily viewed from above in the open public gallery. (In contrast, Tokyo's restrictive early morning fish auction at Toyosu Market limits viewers via registration and a wall of glass). Japan is the world's biggest consumer of tuna.
    1810JPN-6120.jpg
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