You're never alone in the Gorge. Whether it's the Columbia River surging toward the sea, or basalt cliffs soaring like magical beings, the Gorge is alive. Towering conifers add to its majesty. Its wild beauty is a treat for the eye, and human life has pulsed here for thousands of years. People lived in the Gorge before there was writing. They left their stories in rock etchings called Petroglyphs, and rock paintings called pictographs.
Once a 30-ton gray whale has held you in its gaze while allowing you to rest your hand on its head, your perspective of life will never be the same.
There is no place on earth where you are more likely to have this experience than on the San Ignacio Lagoon, located on the central Pacific coast of Baja. Every winter, thousands of gray whales migrate to Baja to mate, calve and nurse. The whales relax and grow playful in the safety of the warm, salty lagoon. About 10% of the winter population has a penchant for approaching boats and interacting with the tourists.
The wide swath of soft sand known as Cannon Beach is a perfect place for a family visit to the shore. If your family doesn't include a dog you may want to borrow one to remind you of how much fun a good romp can be. Dogs under voice control are permitted off leash on the beach, and you'll find many happy Rovers running at the surf's edge.
About 200 miles southeast from Portland is the dream getaway of any fisherman or fisherwoman. If you follow the North Umpqua River through its twists and turns of placid pools, juxtaposed with sections of rapid currents, you will enter into 31 miles of fly-fishing only territory. You will also find an inn that embodies the true spirit of fishing from its rich history to its nightly fisherman's dinner. Gather your poles and tackle box for a getaway filled with fine food, famous fishing spots and even a massage.
Just over 60 miles north of Denver, Fort Collins is an ideal day trip destination to escape the hustle and bustle of Colorado's capital city. As flowers are blooming and the days are getting warmer, spring fever is in the air and summer on its way. To celebrate the warm weather seasons, this perfect day will guide you around Fort Collins, cruising along its extensive network of paved bike paths on a one speed fat tire bike.
A mecca for international and domestic tourism, Orlando, Florida, has more to offer than big-named theme parks and family resorts. A far cry from the hustle and bustle of the tourist district, resident Orlando is characterized by the leisurely beauty of its natural resources and by the diversity of its people.
The towering buildings and crowded sidewalks of Boston become a distant memory as the drive to Waterville Valley, New Hampshire takes you deeper and deeper into the countryside, through woods, and finally into the mountains. White Mountain National Forest is one of the closest and most convenient cross country ski destinations to Boston and worthy of an early morning departure for a full day of snowy fun.
Ever wish you had a best friend with a boat? Now you do. Captain Chuck Brown created Island Trader Charters so you and your friends can cruise with him and first mate Nicole on the 34-foot power yacht Island Trader.
Featuring sunset trips and harbor cruises around Long Beach as well as whale watching, the Island Trader accommodates up to six guests.
On one of San Diego's many glorious sun-filled days, one of the best ways to experience its beauty is to follow the lead of the locals and get out onto the water. If you don't own your own nautical vessel, not to worry, a two-hour Hornblower Harbor Cruise is a great option to enjoy the water and soak up some sun. Bring your sunglasses, a camera, binoculars and a windbreaker and head out for a day on the bay.