#Great Divide Trail Section E

[zaryathelaika]

Content Warning: food discussion, coprophagia

One good thing about switching from Acana to Purina Pro Plan is the pupper no longer eats her own poop.

Super excited about the not-eating-poop thing.

Was kind of annoyed because I was unaware of the ingredient changes. Should have seen the recent trend for switching out grains for pulses coming. We moved away from Champion Petfoods since they kept switching the binder (eg. rice, pea, potato) on us depending on the global market prices. And one of our previous dogs was allergic to any starch from root vegetables: sweet potatoes, tapioca, cassava, yam etc. Stopped feeding Acana altogether in winter of 2015. Difficult to find a brand which didn't change ingredients based on market fluctuations! So, wasn't surprised the so-called "grain-free" kibbles found a cheap alternative to keep the prices down.

Just massively disappointed because the first time I heard about Acana was because Orijen (for cats) was the only decent kibbles available for ferrets.

(Believe me, trying to get an imprinted ferret to eat something other than kibbles is a pain.)

Anyway, found this interesting chart. Thought the visual from the paper is interesting.

Same for this table:

And here is the summary of that paper:

Source: Carciofi, A. C., F. S. Takakura, L. D. de-Oliveira, E. Teshima, J. T. Jeremias, M. A. Brunetto, and F. Prada. "Effects of six carbohydrate sources on dog diet digestibility and post-prandial glucose and insulin response" [PDF, 226 kb]. Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition 92 (2007): 326-336.

No archived versions, unfortunately.

Anyway, it's okay she eats Purina for the time being. She will be switching to Inukshuk or Redpaw when she's old enough to pack, and those contains ingredients often demonized by pet parents. (But like exhale ... The Great Divide Trail has sections where there are no resupply for about a week or two. Every gram counts on a long-distance hiking trip.)

[placeswordsdreams]

Great Divide Trail, Section E, Canada

[popolitiko]

Bigots Get a Boost from the Bully Pulpit After Charlottesville

By Michael Scherer and Alex Altman - August 17, 2017

Nearly alone among the nation’s elected leaders, Trump saw a nobility of purpose in the fiery procession that began a weekend of street fights in Charlottesville, Va. White nationalists hoisted tiki torches that recalled the horrifying imagery of the Ku Klux Klan. They revived an old Nazi chant–“Blood and Soil” - which had been silenced in 1945 with American blood on German soil. And they mixed in a new anti-Semitic taunt, “Jews will not replace us,” meant to declare unity of the white race.

But to the President, those details did not tell the whole story. Marching with the racists, fascists and separatists, he argued, were some “very fine people” with a worthy mission. “Not all of those people were neo-Nazis, believe me,” he said on Aug. 15 at a press conference in the lobby of Trump Tower. “Not all of those people were white supremacists. Those people were also there because they wanted to protest the taking down of the statue of Robert E. Lee.”

It swept away any lingering delusions that Trump will harness the high office to unify a bitterly divided country.

American Presidents have often sought to seize the aftermath of a national tragedy to rally the nation together and point us beyond our history. This is the impulse that guided Ronald Reagan after the Challenger explosion, Bill Clinton after the Oklahoma City bombing, George W. Bush after Sept. 11 and Barack Obama after the Charleston church shooting.

But that is not Trump. Asked whether he would heed presidential custom by visiting the site of the tragedy, Trump replied that he owned a very large winery near Charlottesville.

His response was panned as a missed opportunity and massive error, not just by his foes but by scores of Republicans. It led Trump on Aug. 16 to preemptively dissolve two separate advisory councils of top CEOs after a string of resignations.

But his stance was no accident. It was a reminder that in some ways, Trump sees the world in the same us-against-them tones that inform his most racist supporters.

Throughout his business career, he used racial and ethnic divisions to his advantage. He sees the cultural norms that seek to minimize racial strife as “politically correct” barriers to free expression. Trump declared during the presidential campaign that an American with Mexican-born parents could not fairly adjudicate a case in which Trump was a party because of his immigration policies. On the campaign trail, he recited lyrics to a song that compared Muslim refugees to venomous snakes. Now, in the Oval Office, he is using the pulpit to tolerate and fan tribal grievance.

And he lashed out at others who came forward to criticize him. Trump’s longtime political Svengali Roger Stone has a maxim: “Politics is not about uniting people,” he told the New Yorker in 2008. “It’s about dividing people. And getting your 51%.”

That is not so far from the methods and goals of a revitalized white-nationalist movement, which sees in Trump a welcome partner.

“Thank you President Trump for your honesty & courage to tell the truth about #Charlottesville,” tweeted David Duke, a former Grand Wizard of the Ku Klux Klan, whose current ambition, like many at the rally, is the creation of an all-white American ethnostate.

Then, just days after vehicular terrorism in Charlottesville killed a young woman, Trump retweeted a photo of a train running over a man with the CNN logo on his face. (He later deleted it.)

All of which delights the angry white torchbearers. The new faces of American hate are now more likely to be a college-educated Internet trolls than goose-stepping skinheads. Instead of robes or hoods, they favor natty suits and New Balance sneakers, white polos and khaki pants. Dubbed the alt-right, they are a constellation of groups that organize online, delight in ironic and coded forms of communication, and typically have little actual influence outside of anonymous message boards and the comments section of revisionist YouTube videos that declare Adolf Hitler’s greatness.

Among this new racist right inspiration often comes from European fascist groups like Golden Dawn in Greece, the neo-Nazi Nordic Resistance Movement and the ultranationalist Russian philosopher Alexander Dugin, a close ally of Vladimir Putin’s. Their anger is directed at what they see as the dwindling fortunes of the white working class in America–an idea that the President has homed in on as well.

For this network of white grievance, Trump has been a godsend. “Finally someone at the level of presidential politics is speaking their language,” explains Lawrence Rosenthal, chair of the Center for Right-Wing Studies at the University of California, Berkeley. “This was a providential deliverance. He mobilized them in a way that has no precedent.

https://time.com/4904281/bigots-boosted-by-the-bully-pulpit-charlottesville/

====================================

Arnold Schwarzenegger Delivers a Powerful Message to Neo-Nazis after Charlottesville

Post is old, and needs to be shared again.

https://youtu.be/BaN78rXX6Lc

[thehikingviking]

Mt Silliman from Lodgepole Visitor Center, Sequoia National Park

Colin had a free weekend so he was keen on getting a trip together. He was most interested in Mt Silliman which lies in Sequoia National Park. I had hoped to save this peak for when I was in a pinch and needed an easy SPS peak, however I decided that Colin’s company was too good to pass up. Mike Toffey also agreed to join us, which gave us an opportunity to have a nice little reunion post Kandlbinder Peak outing. Inspired by Sean King and Chris Henry’s snow climb a month earlier, we hoped to challenge ourselves with some spring conditions. We watched the daily satellite and observed the snow receding at a very fast rate. We decided to bring our crampons and ice axes with us, and we planned to make the call on what to carry after seeing the conditions first hand at the trailhead. I offered to drive, so on a Friday afternoon, I picked up both Colin and Mike from San Jose then drove across the valley to the SEKI northern park entrance. We found a section of national forest land where we slept. Colin and Mike set up tents above the road, while I slept in the car parked near a closed gate. I was disturbed at 2am with high beams penetrating my car. There were two PG&E trucks and they were fiddling with the gate so that they could tend to some issue further up the forest road. I was not blocking the gate, but I was in their high beam’s line of fire. It took them a remarkably long time to open such a simple gate, and needless to say I was pretty upset. I caught a couple more hours of sleep after they finally passed through, but I didn’t quite get the well needed good night’s rest that I had hoped for. The next morning we piled back into my car and drove the remaining 18 miles down General’s Highway to the Lodgepole Visitor Center. Colin threw up on the drive; was it car or altitude sickness? I could have parked closer to the Lodgepole Campground, but it was my first time in the area and simply parked in the first lot after turning off the freeway. This folly added about a half mile of extra pavement walking each way, but we were in high spirits and expected a moderate day to begin with. We left the snowshoes in the car, but brought along our crampons and ice axes. We crossed the Marble Fork of the Kaweah River then started up the Twin Lakes Trail.

We started off at a strong clip. I was hoping to get my Sierra hiking legs back under me but my body screamed in agony. My lungs, legs, feet and brain protested as I walked up the gradual trail. It usually takes me a few Sierra hikes to get back shape, but I was in exceptionally poor conditioning after a multiweek trip to El Salvador. I pretended to analyze the foliage to make excuses for my constant little breaks. The Mountain Misery was one of the prime candidates of interest due to it’s recognizable and nostalgic scent.

We followed the Twin Lakes Trail for 2.2 miles. Prior to crossing Silliman Creek, we picked up a well trodden use trail that stayed along the southeastern side of the creek.

We continued up to Silliman Meadow wondering when we would finally hit some snow.

The trail remained generally easy to follow, aside from the occasional fallen tree that had us make small diversions.

The trail ended at some granite slabs at a fork in the canyon. Many trip reports mentioned these granite slabs so we continued up the right fork of the canyon.

Snow patches had started to appear. They were melting fast and water was running all around us. We decided to keep our gear in the pack and find a snow free friction route up the smooth granite.

-Sierra Stonecrop

The patches of snow that were unavoidable were easy to walk across.

We reached Silliman Lake at just over 10,000 ft. It was still covered with ice.

From here it looked like the peak was to our east, but in reality it was more to our north.

Although it seemed counterintuitive, GPS corrected my assumption and we continued on our way towards the summit. Again we were able to pick a mostly snow free route, now that we were on the exposed southern side of the peak.

I could have found a class 2 route to the top, but that would have been too boring. I aimed for the ridge and once there, picked a fun class 3 route along the top of the ridgeline. It was very benign, but I’ve seen some YouTubers refer to this as “Death Drop Ridge”. They used a fish goggle lens to make their periphery appear more exposed. Most viewers end up being fooled by this trick, and they get a lot of views because of it. I find the whole mountain influencer culture to be fraudulent and pathetic.

Mike came up to join me while Colin stayed slightly below the ridgeline. The western summit was rather impressive with a nice layer of snow.

It wasn’t much longer until we reached the summit. We didn’t need our crampons or ice axes once.

To the northwest ran the Kings-Kaweah Divide.

To the northeast was the gash in the Salinian Block that is Kings Canyon.

To the east stood the Great Western Divide.

To the southeast was the Kaweah Range. Black Kaweah looked exceptionally striking.

To the southwest were Panther Peak, Moro Rock and the southern entrance of Sequoia National Park.

To the west was the hazy San Joaquin Valley.

Things were going well I felt, but out of nowhere Colin started to feel sick. It was not long before he started coughing, then some vomiting ensued.

Mike and I gave Colin some time, since it was early and we had nowhere we needed to be. Once he got everything out, we started back down, expecting his symptoms to improve once at a lower elevation.

The descent was very fun. I found safe snow patches that were glissadeable, both on our feet and on out butts.

Other sections had me stomp through the soft snow. Water was flowing everywhere and it was quite magical.

Then out of nowhere, Colin unexpectedly got sick again. We were much lower in elevation now so Mike and I were a bit perplexed as to why his nausea had returned. Only this time it was coming out of both ends.

Mike and I chose a spot to rest down below to give Colin some privacy.

Once he was strong enough to continue, we dropped down the rest of the slabs and found the use trail.

I remember walking back and studying Colin’s body language. He was clearly hurting, and I could sense the negative energy coming from his body. Colin is usually the friendliest and happiest guy, but this was a time that he didn’t want to talk. Instead I focused on chatting with Mike about stupid things, things that probably unintentionally irritated the hell out of Colin. One I realized this, I went back to studying the forest, mostly learning about Wolf Lichen, which for the longest time I thought was moss.

Colin started to feel a little better as we reached the trailhead. As we walked through the Lodgepole Campground, I noticed that entire sections of the campground were closed while others remained open to full capacity. This was most likely done as a Covid precaution, but was completely idiotic. They could have easily closed every other site to allow for more intra-camper distancing, however instead they decided to jampack all the campers into one small, dense section of the campground. I’m sure the mouth breathers of the park service believe that they saved lives by doing this. We hopped back into the car and began our drive back home, but I had to pull over a few times for Colin to throw up some more. What madness! He finally was able to keep food and liquid down once at the low elevation town of Squaw Valley. We still don’t have a good explanation for why this keeps happening, but I hope Colin figures it out soon, as he appeared to be in a lot of discomfort that day. All in all, it was good to bag another Sierra Nevada Peak, and while we didn’t get the snow we had hoped for, it was still a fun day in the mountains.

[your-dietician]

Best of Teller 2021: Readers' Picks - Arts, Entertainment & Recreation | Pikes Peak Courier

New Post has been published on https://tattlepress.com/entertainment/best-of-teller-2021-readers-picks-arts-entertainment-recreation-pikes-peak-courier/

Best of Teller 2021: Readers' Picks - Arts, Entertainment & Recreation | Pikes Peak Courier

ADVENTURE COMPANY

GOLD: Great Outdoors Adventures

19251 U.S. 24, Woodland Park, 719-686-6816, goadventures.org

If last summer’s fun was limited due to the coronavirus, here’s your chance to redeem yourself. Give Great Outdoors Adventures a call. The company offers adventures just outside your door with slingshot touring and e-bike riding through roads and picturesque destinations in the Pikes Peak region. New explorers, off-roading enthusiasts and everyone in between will find the perfect opportunity to experience the Rocky Mountains and picturesque Teller County like never before.

SILVER: Lutheran Valley Retreat

ARTIST/GALLERY

GOLD: Tiffany Rose Photography

Woodland Park, 304-657-4541, trosephoto.com

Since opening her Woodland Park-based business in 2005, owner Tiffany Basnett has enjoyed taking advantage of her surroundings. She’s a one-woman team, and her work includes photos of families, high school seniors, weddings and engagements, newborns and maternities. Basnett doesn’t have a studio, so her work often takes her outdoors, where she tries “to get as much of the natural Colorado background as possible.”

SILVER: Cindy Valade

HIKE FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY

GOLD: Mueller State Park

21045 CO 67, Divide, 719-687-2366, cpw.state.co.us/placestogo/parks/Mueller

Mueller State Park welcomes adventure-seekers of all ages, thanks to its natural and historical beauty. It features 50 miles of trails that range from short, leisurely walks to challenging, full-day hikes. The average elevation in Mueller State Park is 9,600 feet. And the hikes need not be on foot only, as this scenic state park offers 27 miles of trails fit for horseback riding and 19 miles for bicyclists. It is a lovely place to spend time in and is home to native grasses, wildflowers, spruce, fir, pine and aspen, along with wildlife such as elk, hawks, mule deer and black bear.

SILVER: Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument

OUTDOOR FESTIVAL/EVENT

GOLD: Symphony Above the Clouds

Woodland Park Middle School, 600 E. Kelley’s Road, Woodland Park, 719-822-1157, symphonyabovetheclouds.org

Symphony Above the Clouds’ aim is to bring the community together every July with a free, open-air concert at the Woodland Park Middle School athletic field. This year’s July 5 event will be extra special, considering it celebrates the concert’s 40th anniversary. Gates open at 5 p.m., and organizers encourage visitors to come early and bring food for a picnic or purchase food from the Panther Pride Booster’s Club. The show features the Cari Dell Trio and Craig Harms’ Swing Factory, and Woodland Park Wind Symphony along with a performance of Tchaikovsky’s “1812 Overture.” The concert was canceled last year due to coronavirus concerns.

SILVER: Woodland Park Farmers Market

PLACE TO COOL OFF IN THE SUMMER

GOLD: Woodland Park Farmers Market

Memorial Park, 117 Center St., Woodland Park, 719-400-9986, wpfarmersmarket.com, Fridays through September, 8-1 p.m.

The Woodland Park Farmers Market has returned to Memorial Park for the summer and is thriving. It kicked off its 31st season this month to a large crowd, featuring live music and some of the best produce around. This farmers market is governed by the Teller County Farmers Market Association, an independent nonprofit entity with 501(c)(3) status that is supported by merchant fees, donations, sponsors and grants. The best parts? Dogs are more than welcome and parking and admission are free.

SILVER: Woodland Aquatic Center

WEEKEND DRIVE

GOLD: Highway 67 to Cripple Creek

No matter the season, this weekend drive is always stunning. With 71 miles of winding roads along the highway, traveling through various sections of Southern Colorado, the drive through Teller County out to Cripple Creek is all at once relaxing and romantic. Make sure to stop at the Cripple Creek Heritage Center or at one of the pull-outs along the highway to really soak in the views. The right time of the year (i.e. late fall) can feature golden aspens and scenic mountainside views.

SILVER: Pike National Forest

CAMPGROUND

GOLD: Mueller State Park

21045 CO 67, Divide, 719-687-2366, cpw.state.co.us/placestogo/parks/Mueller

After more than a year of limitations, here’s some good news: Mueller State Park’s campground is “completely open,” according to its website. Once again, it’ll be a popular destination. Nonetheless, it’s worthwhile, considering the campground features traditional tent camping, RV and cabin camping options. There is something for everyone — whether you want a rustic experience or a weekend in the woods complete with modern conveniences. Mueller’s campgrounds are located in a picturesque forest of mixed spruce, fir, pine and aspen trees with panoramic views of the Continental Divide.

SILVER: Eleven Mile Canyon Recreation Area

CASINO

GOLD: Bronco Billy’s Casino

233 E. Bennett Ave., Cripple Creek, 719-689-2142, broncobillyscasino.com

Branding itself as a “true Colorado style casino and hotel,” Bronco Billy’s Casino is the place to find gaming, live music, dining and overnight stays. Visitors can enjoy Bronco Billy’s as a historic full house resort and casino that hearkens back to Cripple Creek’s heyday as a booming gold mining town. At Bronco Billy’s, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience.

SILVER: Triple Crown Casinos

FESTIVAL OR SPECIAL EVENT

GOLD: Symphony Above the Clouds

Woodland Park Middle School, 600 E. Kelley’s Road, Woodland Park, 719-822-1157, symphonyabovetheclouds.org

Presented by the Ute Pass Symphony Guild, the Symphony Above the Clouds concert will look, feel and perhaps even sound a little different this year. In the past, the event featured the Colorado Springs Philharmonic. This year, however, the event will feature the Cari Dell Trio and Craig Harms’ Swing Factory, and Woodland Park Wind Symphony. As in past years, the show is July 5 with gates opening at 5 p.m. Earlier this month organizers told The Courier that it was unclear if the city will approve the traditional fireworks display, which accompanies a performance of Tchaikovsky’s “1812 Overture.”

SILVER: Woodland Park’s Old Fashioned 4th of July Celebration

MUSEUM

GOLD: Rocky Mountain Dinosaur Resource Center

201 S. Fairview St., Woodland Park, 719-686-1820, rmdrc.com

Dinosaurs are back (but not from extinction!). They’re in full display after more than a year of limited interactions because of COVID-19 concerns. You can find them at the Dinosaur Resource Center, which boasts an awe-inspiring display of dinosaurs, prehistoric marine reptiles, pterosaurs and fish of North America’s late Cretaceous period. Each fossil skeleton on display is supplemented with graphics and sculptures for deeper learning, coupled with a working fossil lab and an interactive children’s area. The museum is open seven days a week and offers 1-hour tours, included in admission. We recommend that visitors stop by Prehistoric Paradise, the region’s largest dinosaur gift shop, to purchase a forever token to remember their visit.

SILVER: Cripple Creek Heritage Center

PHOTOGRAPHER

GOLD: Shedding Shots Photography

Woodland Park, 719-433-6027, sheddingshotsphotography.com

Brook Huffington’s passion for photography started about 10 years ago with a point-and-shoot camera. Since then, she has upgraded her equipment. On her website, she says, “Being a stay-at-home mom gave me the opportunity to explore my love of photography, and after much encouragement from friends and family, I decided to pursue photography as a career! I love my job!” Her portfolio includes photos of high school seniors, family, weddings and engagements, newborns and maternities.

SILVER: Cindy Valade

PLACE TO HEAR LIVE MUSIC

GOLD: Crystola Roadhouse

20918 U.S. 24, Woodland Park, 719-686-7369, crystolaroadhouse.com

Music and good food go hand-in-hand, and you’ll find that — along with good company — at the historic Crystola Roadhouse. The original Crystola Inn was built during the late Victorian era, in the 1880s, welcoming miners, railroad workers and tourists who flowed through the Pikes Peak region during the Gold Rush. The remodeled building is a welcoming place, especially now that things seem to be returning to normal after more than a year of the coronavirus pandemic.

SILVER: Ute Pass Cultural Center Amphitheater

THEATER

GOLD: Gold Hill Theatres

615 Midland Ave., Woodland Park, 719-687-3555, goldhilltheatres.com

Movie theaters are back! And Gold Hill Theatres, built in 1975, offers a true family-style movie theater complete with state-of-the-art digital projection and sound equipment. Here, patrons will find a place to cool off in the summer or warm up in the winter in the comfort of a theater offering the newest films and friendly service. One Facebook reviewer said, “This is a real gem! Four small movie theaters inside. One is only four rows. You can rent out the larger theatre for private showings … and bring in your own DVD if you like.” So, grab your popcorn, an ice cold drink and get back to one of America’s favorite pastimes.

SILVER: The Butte Theater

THINGS TO DO WITH KIDS

GOLD: Camp and hike

tellerlinks.com, cpw.state.co.us/placestogo/parks/Mueller, fs.usda.gov/psicc

Opportunities for these two activities are endless and plentiful in Teller County. If you want to hike, there are easy to difficult options. Pikes Peak, anyone? Of course, there are places like Mueller State Park and Eleven Mile State Park, where you can do both. And let’s not forget Pike National Forest, which offers numerous camping opportunities as well as private campgrounds and RV camping facilities.

SILVER: Memorial Park

WEDDING VENUE

GOLD: The Edgewood Inn

10975 Loy Creek Road, Woodland Park, 719-687-0845, edgewoodwp.com

The Edgewood Inn knows that a wedding is a celebration of love, sharing and commitment, all with beautiful mountain views of Pikes Peak, intimate gathering rooms, outdoor decks, a dance floor and movie theater. This is about as unique of a wedding experience as you’ll get. Sitting on five acres in a rural and secluded area, this is a true Rocky Mountain wedding destination offering indoor and outdoor ceremonies and receptions.

SILVER: Sourdough Valley Ranch

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[beyondlimitsonfoot]

First day we ascended 1 mile vertical; make sure you train before doing this. The trail is in the San Gorgonio Wilderness; the area is a rare treasure only 75 miles away from congested Los Angeles.

Location Mileage Elevation Gain Type San Gorgonio Wilderness 22.4 miles 6,530 feet Loop

— What’s in this Guide —

1. Background – If you’re interested in a little history, some fun facts, trailhead info, map of hike, water sources (important to know for this hike). 2. Itinerary Options – Some ideas following 1-3 day options for you to choose from. 3. Trail Camps – The quick run down of where you can stay the night; I recommend staying close to a water source. 4. Weather – Always important to check the weather before you head out. 5. Permits and Passes – This section includes how to put in for a permit and the need for different passes. *Permit is required to hike in this area. 6. Directions – how to get to the trailhead. 7. Maps, Books and Gear Recommendations – A source for important maps that you should take on a hike, reading material before the hike and some recommendations on gear items that would be great for the hike. 8. Hike Stats – Quick overview of the mileage and elevation for points of interest on the hike. 9. Description – My favorite part is the recollection of the hike and the awesome pictures that I can share with you guys. Be sure to check out my rambling and photographs in this section.

— Background —

Did you know that the word Momyer means more up? Of course you didn’t because it doesn’t mean that, but this loop is definitely more up all the way. Momyer Creek Trail is actually named after Joe Momyer, a retired San Bernardino postal superintendent and also a founder of the “Defenders of the San Gorgonio Wilderness” group. The word is that contractors wanted to make San Gorgonio area a ski resort. He amongst other advocates of the preservation were contributors to a new Wilderness Act that hits the spot of for those hikers who care. “Secure for the American people of present and future generations the benefits of an enduring resource of Wilderness… an area where the earth and its community of life are untrammeled by man, where man himself is a visitor who does not remain.” Thus the San Gorgonio Wilderness was born.

— Trailhead Info —

Momyer Creek Trail Just like the sgwa.org website states this is one of the most underused trails. We ran into only 7 people during the entire two days. This is the route we took to do the 22+ mile loop for training. The trail is quite steep and not to be taken lightly, make sure you train before heading out on this trail. First water source on this trail is Alger Creek Camp about 3.7 miles in; but if you are doing the loop don’t expect any water until 8 miles in.

— Map of Hike —

— Water Sources —

High Meadow Springs is one of many natural springs in the San Gorgonio Wilderness area. “A spring is any natural situation where water flows from an aquifer to the Earth’s surface” and in this case, High Meadow Springs was our reliable source of water. Sgwa Water Sources: Here is a list of water sources in the area. Notable water sources for this hike:

Trail Fork Springs: This is more than 8 miles into the journey, so be sure to have enough water until then. If you don’t need water just yet, High Meadow Springs Is just about 3 more miles away and you don’t have to take the downhill to Trail Fork Springs and stay on the higher route on the San Bernardino Peak Divide Trail.

High Meadow Springs: The springs are a bit downhill from the camp area, but a year-round spring and quite the view as the sun is setting.

Plummer Crossing: There are two places here one did not have any water, find the crossing where the water from High Meadow Springs. This was one of the better creek crossings and the water was perfect cold. We filled up our bladders here.

After Saxton Camp Spring: There is a small spring after passing Saxton Camp; there was barely any water here (May 2018).

Dobbs Camp: This is not on the trail and a bit out of the way, but does have a water source.

Alger Creek Camp: This is one of the most reliable sources of water on the trail unless it is a high drought year. There was plenty of water during our hike (May 2018)

— Itinerary Options —

One Day Do not attempt this in one day unless you are in very good hiking shape and take your essential gear for the day and in case of emergency.

Hike ~22.4 miles; ~6,350′ elevation gain the whole loops

Two Day This is what we did! The first day was very tough and the second day was even tougher.

Day 1 – Hike ~12 miles; ~5,600′ elevation gain from Momyer Creek Trail to High Meadow Springs

Day 2 – Hike ~10 miles; ~850′ elevation gain from High Meadow Springs to Momyer Creek Trailhead via Falls Creek Trail

Three Day

Day 1 – Hike ~8 miles; ~5,100′ elevation gain from Momyer Creek Trail to Trail Fork Springs

Day 2 – Hike ~8.5 miles; ~750′ elevation gain from Trail Fork Springs to Dobbs Creek Camp

Day 3 – Hike ~5.9 miles; ~700′ elevation gain from Dobbs Creek Camp to Momyer Creek Trailhead

*There’s many camp spots along the trail that you can pick.

— Trail Camps —

Most of the campsites along this trail are marked high above on a tree and easy to find except for High Meadow Springs Camp.

Trail Fork Springs Camp – ~8 miles

Anderson Flat Camp – ~9.8 miles

Shields Flat Camp – ~ 10.3 miles

High Meadow Springs Camp – ~11.7 miles (Where we stayed!)

Red Rock Flat Camp – ~12.2 miles

Saxton Camp – ~14.7 miles

Dobbs Camp – ~16.5 miles

Alger Creek Camp – ~18.7 miles

— Weather —

The weather can change at any time in the mountains, be sure to prepare. This area is known to get very hot in the summertime; hike early to minimize impact of any heat illness. Forest Falls – Elevation 5,643 feet Anderson Peak – Elevation 10,840 feet

— Permits and Passes —

— Backcountry Permit —

Day Hikes: You are not required to have a wilderness permit for a day high, but they are highly recommended for your safety. Be sure to leave your itinerary with your family as well in case anything happens.

Backcountry Permit is required to hike overnight in the San Bernardino National Forest. To obtain a permit you can obtain it in person at the Mill Creek Ranger Station and the Big Bear Discover Center. The other option is to mail or fax the Wilderness Permit Request up to 90 days in advance. Just like most trails in there is an overnight quote, so planning ahead is advised.

Fill out the Day Hike or Overnight Hike Permit Request Form. *Allow up to a minimum of 5 business days to process the request.

Submit the form by either: *I recommend emailing it, quickest and easiest

faxing it to (909) 794-1125

emailing it to permits@sgwa.org

mailing it to: Millcreek Ranger Station, Attention Front Desk, 34701 Mill Creek Road, Mentone, CA 92359

There is no fee to put in an application.

— National Forest Adventure Pass —

To park at Momyer Trailhead you do not need an adventure pass. If you park at Forest Falls or Vivian Creek you will need an adventure pass. To obtain an Adventure pass find the closest Forest Service location or go to a major sporting goods store. The fees are either daily ($5 per day) or annual ($30). If you’d like to know more about the pass, read on the USDA Forest Service Recreation Passes & permits Website.

— Directions —

Moymer Creek Trailhead Address: 40560 Valley of the Falls Dr, Forest Falls, CA 92339 From Los Angeles, take I-10 E. After passing I-215, drive 7.8 miles and exit onto University St (exit 80). Turn left onto N University St. Drive 1 mile and turn right onto E Lugonia Ave. Continue on CA-38 E/Mill Creek Rd for 9.4 miles take a slight right onto Valley of the Falls Dr towards Forest Falls. Drive 2.8 miles and the destination will be on the left a dirt parking lot. If you reached the entrance to the Falls Picnic Area you have driven too far.

— Maps, Books & Gear Recommendations —

— Maps — 1. Trail map of the San Gorgonio Wilderness: Waterproof, synthetic paper – My favorite type of maps are the Tom Harrison Maps. This is the perfect one for this hike. 2. Caltopo Momyer Creek Trail – Falls Creek Trail Loop – This is a map I created on CalTopo of the exact route that we took. I also have a photo of it attached above. 3. San Bernardino Mountain Trails: 100 Hikes in Southern California – A book about other hikes in the San Bernardino Mountains. I usually look here, then go online and then plan the hike.

— Some Gear Recommendations — 1. Patagonia Trucker Hat – The area is known to be sunny most of the year, be sure to take a hat to cover your head and face. Don’t forget that sunscreen either. 2. LifeStraw Mission Water Purification System – A water purification system is very important and ever since we got this one, I have not been happier. We can grab over 6 liters of water, hang this up having it pour into our bladders and completely forget about it. But don’t forget about it, because of course it will overflow – it takes time but it’s perfect if you gather the water and then set up camp while it fills up your bladder. 3. Black Diamond Trail Pro Shock Trekking Pole – I recommend hiking poles on this hike because it is very brutal uphill and downhill. I relied on them to give me support on the downhill for my knees and to help me get a rhythm on the uphill portion. 4. Honey Stinger Organic Waffle – Best snack in the world; I had a banana with it for breakfast what a good mix before we started out on our way. 5. GU Energy Hydration Electrolyte Drink Tablets – Add these to your bladder before you go; gives you a boost of energy and keeps you hydrated throughout the day.

— Hike Stats —

Point of Interest Mileage Elevation Momyer Creek Trailhead 0 miles 5,440 feet San Bernardino Peak turn-off 2.9 miles 7.010 feet San Bernardino Peak Trail 7.1 miles 10,250 feet Trail Fork Spring Junction 7.9 miles 10,580 feet Anderson Flat Camp 9.8 miles 10,560 feet Shields Flat Camp 10.3 miles 10,320 feet High Meadow Springs Camp 11.7 miles 10,320 feet Red Rock Flat Camp 12.2 miles 10,080 feet Dollar Lake Saddle *No Camping 12.4 miles 10,000 feet Saxton Camp 14.7 miles 8,560 feet Dobbs Camp turn-off 16.4 miles 7,250 feet Alger Creek Camp 18.6 miles 7,040 feet San Bernardino Peak turn-off 19.5 miles 7,010 feet Momyer Creek Trailhead 22.4 miles 5,440 feet

— Description —

I’ve wanted to do a hike in the San Gorgonio Wilderness for some time; the plan was to make this more of a training hike instead of summiting any of the local 10,000+ peaks. I mapped out the hike on the Tom Harrison Map and decided we would do a loop hike that would require us to hike about 1 mile vertical gain in the first day and same back down the next. We woke up at 5:00am, we had already packed the backpacks and food the night before made some coffee and we were on our way just before 6:30am. Took us about an hour and 30 minutes to get to the trailhead, with a short pit stop for some chap stick (forgot it at home) and cornuts (wanted a salty snack for the trail).

There were only a couple cars parked, which meant this was going to be nice quiet hike, even though normally a lot of the Los Angeles Mountains are not as inviting because of the crowds. From the parking lot you have to head down into the riverbed and cross the river. There are some safe spots, we found a log to go over; again check for safety as at different times of year will be difficult to cross as easy.

The first portion of the trail was very rocky; almost like the river roared through this area once. First couple miles till you hit the junction to turn up towards San Bernardino Peak are are a gradual up; at least that’s what if felt like on the way up. We climbed about 1500 feet the first 3 miles; at the junction (around 2.9 miles) turn left towards San Bernardino Peak. I was having trouble on this portion of the trail all the way up to 10000 feet because my legs were tired from running all week and playing beach volleyball the night before.

Tough switchbacks, ton of bushwacking and after many breaks we didn’t reach the height of our ascent until 1:30pm. It felt like forever, but I was so happy that we were done with the up portion. My legs were jelly and I couldn’t wait to get to our campspot. We checked our water and it looked like we had enough till we reached High Meadow Springs Camp.

This is the hill where High Meadow Springs was. The view was absolutely gorgeous especially as the sun was setting. My favorite time of day is right before the sun sets.

Once we got back to camp, first thing we did was go find the springs to make sure we knew were they were. Thanks to gps and maps it was actually pretty easy to find. There were a few good areas where we collected the water; we used our favorite filter: LifeStraw Mission Water Purification System, High-Volume Gravity-Fed Purifier for Camping and Emergency Preparedness, 5 Liter. We walked back up to camp and while our water filtered into our Osprey Hydraulics Reservoir, 3 Liter we set up camp and everything in our tent for the night.

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It was getting quite cold outside, so we decided to get into the tent and cook our Lipton Chicken Noodle Soup from inside the tent. I peered out and quickly got the pot ready to boil; closed the tent doors to keep it warm inside. I could hear it get a little louder so I checked on the water to see if it was boiling. We threw in the couple of packets of Lipton Chicken Noodle Soup, mixed and waiting for about 5 more minutes. We use a Jetboil and an MSR Cooking set if we are making bigger soups.

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The next morning we woke up around 7:30am and started to put everything out into the sun as it got cold overnight and some things were damp. Made a coffee, had half our wrap for the day and filtered the rest of the water we had gotten last night at the springs. We had about 3 liters between the two of us and I was quite sure we were going to pass some water sources along the way down from looking on the map and being that it was early in the year before the summer’s heat dries out our Southern California water sources.

The way down was uncomfortably brutal on the soles of my feet. Took several breaks: one longer break to filter water from the springs and the others were just for our legs to take a break. Even though it was sunny, it wasn’t too hot for us and by the time we descended about 3000 feet we were in the clouds that we saw below. We reached the car around 1:30pm and boy were we happy to get changed into flip flops and grab something to eat.

Note to self: Pack extra water in case as this hike can take a long time.

*Originally hiked on May 13-14, 2018

Momyer Creek Trail is a trail less travelled in the San Gorgonio Wilderness. There’s a good reason, it is a tough trail, be sure to train before you attempt it. Sore feet and tired bodies accompanied after hiking this. First day we ascended 1 mile vertical; make sure you train before doing this. The trail is in the…

[patricksilvrrozartistry]

Current Music Obsessions: January 16 - 31, 2018

It's time for the last CMO for January, AND I'M ACTUALLY EARLY! I have A LOT to get through in this one because I'm doing an intense purge of my watch later playlist. So let's see those honorable mentions.

Awaken Solace - Moon Over the Mountain Annatar - Reflection Eve's Fall - Enough Edenbridge - A Turnaround in Art Sozos Michael - Life Finds a Way (Helion Prime cover) Aastraal - Majesty of the Nightfall Dragonfly - Silent Scream Nyx Aether - Odyssey of the Forlorn Acid Deathtrip - The Aftermath A Dream of Poe - Lady of Shalott Silent Descent - Voices Origins - The Power Inside Septicflesh - Martyr Kyle Morrison - Mammoth feat. Sean Zatorsky (Sinsaenum), Adrienne Cowan (Light & Shade) Fourth Circle - Iron Drops Dawn of Morgana - Embers Fade Nightmarer - Skinner Eric Hazebroek & Gogo Melone - Winter is Coming Crimfall - Mother of Unbelivers The End Party - Debutante Gary Numan - Ghost Nation Tristania - Pale Enchantress Vanguard - Hyper1one The Sins of Thy Beloved - My Love Shade Empire - Map of Scars The Dark Element - Only One Who Knows Me Meden Agan - The Purge Starset - Frequency Dust in Mind - Anesthesia Dust in Mind - Coward Heilung - Othan (live) The Murder of My Sweet - Echoes of the Aftermath Camila Cabello - Crying in the Club Skies Collide - This Divide

Now for the excessive amount of real obsessions.

1) Edenbridge - The Die is Not Cast

The Great Momentum turned out so much better than I thought it would be. Such a powerful symphonic power metal album with such a strong symphonic element. It's also a lot more aggressive (riff wise) than I was expecting it to be. The chorus is so dramatic and I love it so much. Just an amazing song all the way through.

2) Alwaid - Amphisbaena

This is their latest single off their new album and it's pretty good. It takes a dramatic turn near the end of the song which I really enjoy. It starts out strong and continues to bring throughout the track. I'm definitely am gonna have to give the new album a listen.

3) The Classic Crime - Driftwood

This is a gorgeous atmospheric rock track. If you need something beautiful to chill to, this is it. The singer's voice is so lovely and pleasant and really suits the instrumentals. A very pleasant song.

4) Crystal Gates - Dreamers (Revisited)

This is the second song I've heard from them and holy tits is it amazing. It starts out seeming like it's going to be a pretty ballad track, then it escalates into the chorus and turns into the gorgeous symphonic metal track. And the vocal lines after the first chorus. Gurl. Yes. So good.

5) Adeia - Architect

Found these guys while browsing the metal archives in the Netherlands section. The Dutch prog scene has always been amazing to me, but this band is so different from the ones I've heard in the past. This song is really great and has such a cool vibe to it. I love the subtle symphonic touches to it in the instrumentals.

6) After Forever - My Choice

How am I so late on finding this music video??? I found it out of nowhere one day and got hooked. I've always been a huge fan of After Forever and this is a traditional song of theirs. Very strong vocals as always, but I mean it's Floor Jansen, of course they're gonna be strong. Also I LOVE the bodysuit that Floor wears in this video. It's so cool and funky.

7) Zoe Nash - Rather Die

I have no clue how I found this song, but I absolutely love it. It's so catchy a fun, but with such a dark-ish twist. The way that the background singers sing "I'd rather die" is just a bit to happy sounding. This girl has such a different voice. It's kinda raspy and strange, but so pretty at the same time, which is what has me hooked.

8) Blessed with Rage - Nightfall

This is one of those songs that catch you off guard as to how good it is. I've always have loved bands with a great electronic element to them. I LOVE the edm bit in the bridge. Such a fun touch. It reminds me a bit of We Butter the Bread with Butter, just not as intense and in your face.

9) Lovelorn Dolls - Dead Sea

This song is so great. I'm not too familiar with them, but everything I've heard has been wonderful. The chorus is so simple, but it's so powerful at the same time. It's so weird how that works out. Definitely give this song if you're into gothic metal. Definitely a great jam.

10) Swallow the Sun - Weight of the Dead

I heard this song on Pandora one day a few months ago and finally got around to listening to it on my own time. What a great gothic doom metal track. It really takes off around the last 3 minutes and just evolves into this gorgeous and haunting doom track. It's so powerful. I really need to check out more from them.

11) Banks - Goddess

I haven't heard a bad song from her yet and I'm kinda scared for the day I find something that I don't like. This song is absolutely gorgeous and so fucking pretty. I still don't really know how to label her music. Modern pop? Trip-hop? Experimental? I don't know, but who cares, it's fucking beautiful.

12) Dream Ocean - Forever feat. Jake E. (ex-Amaranthe)

Found this song through a friend on Facebook and it's so pretty. I'm definitely gonna check out more from them, because their singer has such a pretty voice and she herself is really pretty. I mean look at her hair! Anyways, definitely digging this.

13) Unleash the Archers - Ten Thousand Against One

Apex is how their last album should've sounded. I know I keep saying that, but this album is MILES better than the last one. This and Cleanse the Bloodlines have to be my favorites. It's powerful, dramatic and heavy. What more could you ask from an aggressive power metal band?

14) Jucifer - The Mountain

Found these guys when digging through the metal archives to see what the metal scene is like here in Atlanta. Turns out it's not active, just as I expected. But I did find this sludge band here. This song is pure sludge/stoner metal and I love it. I wonder if they'll release any new material any time soon.

15) Dawn of Morgana - Revelations

I found these guys while searching for symphonic metal bands based here in the States that are listed on the metal archives and gurl are they good. It's so hard for me to actually like symphonic metal bands from the States since so many aren't good, but these guys are dramatic and powerful as all get out. Don't sleep on these guys.

16) Tigersclaw - Princess of the Dark

Randomly found this song one day on the recommended videos on YT. It's a pretty good symphonic power metal track. Their singer has a really pretty and high pitched voice and girl can hit a note. It is a bit cheesy, especially since the chorus is repetitive, but it's a great song nonetheless.

17) Amber Asylum - Cardinal Sin (Dead Can Dance cover)

This is the second song I've heard from them and it's absolutely gorgeous. They did a really great job with this cover and making it their own. My question is though is do these guys have any "metal" songs? I found out about these guys while trying to find some prog bands from the States, but this and the other song I've found aren't even metal songs. But besides that, really beautiful and haunting stuff.

18) DRMCTHR - Get Lost

Found this through Spaceuntravel and really dig it. It's almost as if alternative rock and shoegaze had a baby and this song was made. I'm really interested in possibly checking out more from these guys, because this song is really lovely and great to chill to.

19) Crimfall - Wayward Verities

I decided to listen to Amain after hearing a few great songs off it (and also because the cover art features a "naked" dude on it) and this is one of my favorites off it. The bridge is on some other level because it completely shifts tone. It just turns into this epic track in that moment with the choir bits. I also LOVE the yodeling in the intro. Such a great touch.

20) Trail of Tears - Empty Room

Decided to try to find a song off this album after reading an interview Ailyn (ex-Sirenia) did in which she talked about how Emma worked with Trail of Tears before, so I had to find out what exactly she did. That's how I came across this gorgeous and powerful gothic metal track. I honestly prefer Emma here over Sirenia. It just seems as if her voice is more well suited for this kind of music. Definitely check this song out.

21) Gali - Dancing to Another Love Song

Discovered this song through Hellvetika's IG story one day when she posted about having to listen to this song at the gym. I can't remember if she liked it or not, but I decided to give it a go and needless to say I fucking love it. VERY reminiscent of mid 2000's electronica, which was my shit as a tween. I still love it to this day. Such a fun song and girl has some pipes.

22) MILCK - This is Not the End

I discovered her through her song Quiet, so when I saw she dropped a new track, I decided to give it a listen. This song is also a really empowering track and is so lovely. The chorus is rather catchy, but that's necessary when creating a song that's going to be treated as an anthem. The burst of emotion right as the final chorus starts is so wonderful.

23) Sanguine Glacialis - Monsters

Discovered them through their record label and I am so hyped for their upcoming album after hearing this. This song is such a ballbuster. It's been so long since I've found a promising female fronted death metal band. This a bit of an avant-garde metal flare to them that I'm really digging. Oh, and she sounds fucking insane and ferocious.

24) Shade Empire - Lecter (Welcome)

This song is so amazing and is a wonderful start to an amazing album. If you enjoy symphonic black metal, definitely give Poetry for the Ill-Minded a listen. This, Anti-Life Savior and Map of Scars are my favorites. They're all so powerful and leave such a huge impression. I never once thought I'd hear a song about Hannibal Lecter, but here we are with this track.

25) Starset - Unbecoming

This and Satellite have to be my favorites off their new album. It has such a cool vibe and is slightly haunting. The electronic element is so strong and adds this really cool dimension to the music that I am absolutely in love with. Definitely a great jam.

26) Diablo Swing Orchestra - Interruption

Pacifisticuffs is such a fun album and this is one of the many cheesy songs off it. It's cheesy, but in the best way possible. That's how this band works with its cheese. The chorus starts with a strong "ohhhh wah-ohhh" that just sucks you in. So much fun. Definitely can't wait for the day I can see these guys live.

27) Fairy Bones - Killing Me

This is their latest single and it's so fun. I LOVE the blend of psychedelic rock with punk. Such a cool and fun sound. They're always bringing some new vibe in with their music and I always love it. Definitely give these guys a listen.

And that's it for this month! Hopefully next month won't be too long. ANYWAYS, enjoy these great tunes!

[adazhang-221257]

Week 7 - Part 1

Library Workshop tasks

Popular culture definition

Culture is based on the tastes of ordinary people rather than an educated elite.

Expand on the research

Examples of popular culture come from a wide array of genres, including popular music, print, cyber culture, sports, entertainment, leisure, fads, advertising and television.

Popular culture (or "pop culture") refers in general to the traditions and material culture of a particular society. In the modern West, pop culture refers to cultural products such as music, art, literature, fashion, dance, film, cyberculture, television, and radio that are consumed by the majority of a society's population. Popular culture is those types of media that have mass accessibility and appeal.

The term "popular culture" was coined in the mid-19th century, and it referred to the cultural traditions of the people.

Popular culture is simply a culture that is widely favoured or well-liked by many people: it has no negative connotations.

Pop culture in food is driven by the Food Network and includes Hamburger Helper and Rice-A-Roni, which enables family and friends to dine together.

Impacts on food culture

Popular Culture, Food

http://www.faqs.org/nutrition/Ome-Pop/Popular-Culture-Food-and.html

Current trends: increasing trend in the United States toward consumerism, a trend that is reflected in more people eating away from home,  ethnic diversity in diets.

Eating away from home.

Ethnic Foods: foods that come from other cultures. An increased incorporation of ethnic cuisines.

Building Language

Academic reading resources 

Food and Media: Practices, Distinctions and Heterotopias

Edited ByJonatan Leer, Karen Klitgaard Povlsen

https://www-taylorfranciscom.ezproxy.massey.ac.nz/books/e/9781315582603

Brief description: This volume argues that contemporary food studies need to pay more attention to the significance of media in relation to how we 'do' food. We need to understand that food media is particularly central to the diverse contemporary social and cultural practices of food.

The importance of media in various spaces of food culture, as well as the importance of food in media products and media use.

Media and food practices

Already in 2004, Couldry suggested that a new paradigm was emerging in media studies, 'it treats media as the open set of practices relating to, or oriented around, media.' This would free media studies from the insoluble problem of how to prove media effects, and at the same time make non-media-centric investigations possible. In this case, it is between food and media.

Thus every historical period realises the interrelation between media and cultural fields such as food in specific ways that are to be explored empirically.

The article argues that what people actually do with media in relation to food in differing contexts and situations needs further investigation.

Food is connected to culture.

Media practices need to be researched in different contexts, home or institutions.

Medialization is embedded in communication, the routines and habits of everyday life, also in material and technological and societal structures.

Feast for the Eyes: The Story of Food in Photography

Author Susan Bright 

Exhibition: Feast for the Eyes – The Story of Food in Photography

https://thephotographersgallery.org.uk/whats-on/exhibition/feast-eyes-story-food-photography

Intention of the exhibition and the book

This exhibition includes different types of arts, such as fine art and vernacular photography, commercial and scientific images, photojournalism and fashion.

In this exhibition, it shows that food has always been a much-photographed and consumed subject. Food as the subject matter is rich in symbolic meaning and across the history of art, has operated as a vessel for artists to explore a particular emotion, viewpoint or theme and express a range of aspirations and social constructs.

Media enables the way of photographing food to be part of people' s habits.

What Feast for the Eyes focuses is how food is represented and used in photographic practices by looking at a broad range of artists. This exhibition allows lots of different levels of problems for people to consider.

Feast for the Eyes traces the history and effect of food in photography.

Interview with Feast for the Eyes curators Susan Bright and Denise Wolff

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5nVmWn4t9AA

“It is always there. Food is easy to be controlled, moved and arranged. We are all related to food, as we feel something in the tastes and senses.” —— Bright and Wolff

The exhibition is divided into three sections, the first and the blue section is Still life. Sharon Core, a great contemporary example. Her work is complex, it is a reproduction of photos of the still life painting on the internet. She photographs how we consumed images and fine art.

The second and the yellow section is Around the Table. This section focuses on culture and identity, it is about how people gather around for food. Stephen Shore, in one of his photos of the McDonald's hamburger, We would know it's taken in America immediately. This section shows the idea of custom and identity really well. It is about a certain lifestyle.

The third and the red section is called Playing With the Food. This section deals with senses, like the taste, smell.  

This exhibition is not just general food photography, it is more about how food functions in photography. The meaning of the work is worthy for us to consider over and over again.

I am very interested in section 2 of the exhibition and its meaning. In my opinion, food photography, as Bright mentioned, is not only to show what the food looks like (the beauty is also important) but more importantly, the meaning behind the photos. Food represents the appearance of an era and the customs of a country or region. It is the reflection of people's thoughts and certain lifestyles of a specific period, and a symbol of identity. I think this is the main purpose of my study of food popular culture, to explore the customs and culture contained in food, and at the same time to grasp its beauty.  

Stunning photos show how American food consumption has changed in the past 100 years    

https://www.businessinsider.com/15-stunning-photos-that-show-how-food-consumption-has-changed-2017-6

General information:

The same as the change in food consumption, the way societies plate, present, and document food also changed.

"Food can signify a lifestyle or a nation, hope or despair, hunger or excess" Susan Bright writes

Colour photographs began appearing in the early 1900s, and photographer Wladimir Schohin explored the complex process of autochrome, which used potato starch to help create the colour.

As colour photography became more popular and technically easier to create, photographers such as Nickolas Muray helped set the tone for 1940s food photography.

Photographer Stephen Shore is known for his photos of American culture. This photo, of his breakfast at Trail's End Restaurant in Kanab, Utah in 1973, has been celebrated by various photography critics.

Today, some photographers are creating completely new concoctions. Lorenzo Vitturi was inspired by the mix of cultures and foods found at his local market in the East End of London.

Thoughts:

This article describes the changes in food from past to present. People's thoughts and aesthetics are also changing according to different times they live in, and the changes can be visually reflected in the look of food. Viewers can explore the culture and people’s perspective on food in these different photos. This article also clearly describes how food can deliver the differences in each period and its related cultural effects on the expression of food.  

===========================================================================

Researched photographers

Nickolas Muray

He was a Hungarian-born American photographer and Olympic saber fencer.

While Muray is best known for his work as a celebrity portraitist, his magazine and fashion pictures from the 1930s and 1940s are superb examples of both colour photography and the post-war American advertising aesthetic of excess.

Thoughts:

The colours in the photos generally look bright and beautiful. I feel like it was shot in natural lighting as well as using a flashlight. The bright colours will make the audience feel appetizing. The colour and style of the picture made me think it was an oil painting at first sight, as it looks so beautiful that it feels a bit unreal.

This photo gives the audience a sense that it was generated in the old days at first glance, and it clearly describes the traditions of that era, such as people's eating habits, culture, and the way of doing food photography.

Stephen Shore

Thoughts:

Shore's photos are different from common food photography. Instead of fixing the photos to perfection, he keeps some of the flaws and it is more like a documentary way of photographing food.

The photos seem more realistic about the eating habits, breakfast and dinner choices of the time Shore was in. 

These two photos show the culture and habits of a certain time and place, as well as people's identity.

Romulo Yanes

Romulo Yanes is a New York-based photographer who specializes in editorial, food, and travel.

Biography

Romulo Yanes

https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1033723/bio

Romulo Yanes has defined the way we see food.

His passion for good food began with his childhood in Cuba and evolved into his career as a professional photographer.

Yanes photographed restaurant and home-style dishes, street scenes, chefs, entertaining features, ingredients, and food markets.

Emily Schramm Represents 

https://emilyschrammrepresents.com/artist-portfolio/romulo-yanes-food-photographer/

Series ——Raw

His work is prominently featured and discussed in Feast for the Eyes: The Story of Food In Photography (Aperture) by Susan Bright. She lauds Yanes as an image-maker whose style and work have made significant contributions to food photography and to our food culture at large.

Series ——New

Thoughts

Compared with the work of the first two artists, Yanes' works are obviously different. Yanes' photos tend to be aesthetic and have a strong sense of modernity. He shows contemporary eating habits and people's aesthetic thoughts of plating.

Danielle Wood 

Production Paradise

https://www.productionparadise.com/member/london/danielle-wood.html

Danielle Wood is a London-based photographer specialising in food. Working with a small team of experts Danielle creates beautiful, fresh and vibrant images for a wide range of clients.

Danielle’s clients include Marks & Spencer, McDonald's, EDEKA, 4Creative, Warburtons, Compass, Slimming World, Octopus Publishing, Penguin, Harper Collins and many more.

Zifeng Qiu

Profoto    

https://profoto.com/cn/local-stories/qiuzi-b10-michelin-star-shoot 

The idea for this creation: to incorporate Chinese style into the artistic dishes of Michelin.

The two dishes created are Dongpo pork and beef stew with red wine. Dongpo pork is a traditional Chinese dish. He hopes that by using the help from Michelin's thinking to enhance the style to be more traditional. This is a good example of photographing food with different cultural styles.

For the table arrangement, the grey-black ceramic tile is used for the plate. The dark black background to enhance the texture of the food and to create a more advanced feeling.

To make the whole thing look more artistic and traditional, some smoke is added to the photo.

The food in Zifeng Qiu's photographs has both temperature and taste 

https://new.qq.com/omn/20200213/20200213A0AF9R00.html 

The food under his lens is full of healing functions. Looking at his photos, it feels like every cell in the body can feel the happiness and satisfaction brought by Qiu's food photography. Even though we might have not seen the real food, the taste of it is exposed already.

“Generally, commercial photographers have no style of their own, they need to meet the request of their clients.” But Qiu pays more attention to the control of the atmosphere: food photography is not only to make the food look good, but also to translate the taste of food into a visual experience. Incorporate emotion into food photography to resonate with the audience.

He thinks that we need to create a different atmosphere, see whether it is Chinese, Japanese, or Italian, then we will make our own decisions on combining different sets and props. Instead of putting wood in this project, using cement would look better. This is not certain as it depends on the food.

"I hope that I can always create more beautiful things based on my own emotions. I am willing to share and infect others, and pass on the beauty," said Qiu.

I like when texts are added to the photo, as they speak more information about the food. This is also a good example to show how Chinese people do nowadays for advertising, it is one of their typical ways of introducing their food on the menu. People in other countries or with different culture might do things differently.

Cherry Li

Interview with Cherry Li, Food Photographer

Dominique Musorrafiti | January 28, 2020 | China Magazine, China Views, Featured, Taste of China: Chinese Food & Cuisine

https://china-underground.com/2020/01/28/interview-with-cherry-li-food-photographer/

Introduction

Cherry Li is a food photographer and food video director.

In 2012, Cherry’s passion for experiencing the depth of every Chinese cuisine propelled her to move to Beijing. She divides her time between her studios in Beijing and Hong Kong and travelling through mostly Asia on assignment.

Question: How did you develop your style as a food photographer?

"Style is not something I deliberately cultivate; I trust it comes along with living life and adapting to personal and professional challenges."

Question: What are the main difficulties for a food photographer in enhancing dishes and ingredients?

Timing—cooking time, freezing time, defrosting time, resting time, the prime time for shooting is always a shorter window than for eating.

陈燕飞 Yanfei Chen

Chinese Food Photography 潮州美食摄影    

Food&Drinks Photographer 美食摄影师陈燕飞 YanFei Chen  

https://www.behance.net/gallery/69457709/Chinese-Food-Photography-

Chen uses cold artificial lighting in this photo series, making the texture beautifully show on the black background clearly.

Set the food on a dark background can enhance its advanced look.

I like the plate presentation in the first one, the way of arranging the food makes me feel like looking at a piece of Chinese drawing. 

Thoughts:

This group of works is done by Chen, a Chinese photographer who generates Chinese culture within the food. Just like the similar effects of Shore’s photo, when the audience looks at Chen's works, they will quickly acknowledge the culture represented by food. Chen succeeds in combining culture and food perfectly, portraying Chinese culture and eating habits. This is what I want to focus on in my following project, as I hope my work can also let the audience see the cultural context behind the food.

Test photos of my project

These photos are taken at the fruit store and a restaurant. I think documentary photography is one of my ways to take my project forward. However, I think this is not the style I want to go for. I prefer doing food photography to capture the beauty of food presented in a moment, as well as the cultural contexts behind it.

I try with plating the food in IMG 7688, 7694,7705,7762 and 7763. The food in the rest of the photos is left as they are after they came out from the pot. Then I photograph them from different angles and distances to either zoom in and focus on the details of the food or zoom out to capture the whole scene of the plate.

This series gives me the idea of what I want to focus on next. I am fascinated at food, especially enjoying the aesthetic plating presentation. I think food not only shows its own characteristics and beauty, but also expresses more than that. By watching food, you can get the different cultures of places or countries, and you can even discover the thoughts of the people who made it. 

I hope that the photos of my food can not only show its beauty, but telling the story, culture, and my emotions. I would like to make it more than just a still life.

[kilipeak]

KILIMANJARO -SHIRA ROUTE 8 DAYS ITINERARY

KILIMANJARO-SHIRA ROUTE 8 DAYS ITINERARY with Kilipeak Adventure, begins and ends  Karama Lodge and Spa in Arusha. Arrive anytime at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), there will be a private transfer waiting at the airport to pick you to Karama Lodge and Spa. All airport transfers are part of the package, no extra fee is required. THE BEST MONTHS TO CLIMB KILIMANJARO. Normally March, April, and May are the months with long rains and should be avoided. November is usually short rains but it does not often rain all the days so Climbing is possible. The best Months for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro are January, February and also August and September. July can be colder and November to December can be wet. January to February is the warmest months, almost clear of clouds each evening and morning. The success rates with our guides are outstanding compared to the overall success rates for all climbers who attempt to reach the top. SUMMIT SUCCESS RATES: STELLA POINT (97%). UHURU PEAK (95%). DAY1: ARRIVE IN TANZANIA: We stay at Karama Lodge and Spa, which is a beautiful Hotel located on the lower slopes of Mount Meru and is a perfect place to prepare you for adventure. We will gather in the evening at 5:30 pm for a pre-climb briefing and an equipment check. We will also confirm you have the appropriate mandatory medical coverage and travel insurance. Dinner and overnight at Arusha Safari Lodge: Bed, dinner, and Breakfast-included. DAY 2: SHIRA ONE CAMP (FULL BOARD) After breakfast at the Karama Lodge, we drive approximately 2 hours through the rural countryside to the Londrossi Gate. For the necessary park registration formalities at the Londorossi National Park gate, we drive a short distance on a steep track through farmland and plantations to the starting of Shira Route. We start our ascent along with the shrub forests the trail climbs steadily with wide views of Kibo Icefield to reach the rim of the Shira Plateau. Londrossi Gate to Shira One Camp (3550 m): 4-5 hours walking. DAY 3: SHIRA HUT (FULL BOARD) Today we follow an easy path to the summit of Shira Cathedral before reaching the next camp at Shira Hut. As this camp is quite exposed, it can be substantially colder than the previous night, with temperatures dropping to well below freezing. Shira Camp One to Shira Hut (3,840 m): 4-5 hours walking. DAY 4: MOIR HUT (FULL BOARD) In the morning we cross-part of the plateau through lush of heather and moorland then into expensive high Savannah desert before reach moir hut in the alpine zone. For extra acclimatization one can take walk around for the higher lands around the camp; views are superb. Lunch will be served at the Fisher camp. The afternoon will be the acclimatization walk up onto the Lent Hills, the summit of which is at 4,700 meters. Shira Hut to Moir Hut (4,200m): 3-4 hours walking. DAY 5: BARRANCO VALLEY (FULL BOARD) Today we walk on a gentle ascent and panoramic views. We traverse the southwest side of Kilimanjaro, passing underneath the Lava Tower and the final section of the Western Breach and after hot lunch the bottom of the Lava Tower (4,600 m.) we descend to the bottom of the Great Barranco valley (3,900 m.). Moir Hut to Barranco valley (3,900 m.): 5-7 hours walking. DAY 6: KARANGA CAMP (FULL BOARD) A steep climb up the eastern wall leads us just below the Heim Glacier, where we may have some spectacular views of Kilimanjaro. We then take a steep exit up the Great Barranco Wall, which divides us from the southeastern slopes of Kibo, the trail continues down into the alpine desert of the Karanga Valley, finally, we have a steep climb up to Karanga Camp Barranco Valley to Karanga camp (4,000 m): 4-5 hours walking. DAY 7: BARAFU CAMP (FULL BOARD) Today we take the Traverse Route that takes up the Barafu Ridge, we walk up quite slowly to the final camp before your last ascent day to the summit. The remainder of the day is spent relaxing in preparation for the final ascent before a very early night. Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp (4,600 m): 3-4 hours walking. DAY 8: SUMMIT TO MWEKA CAMP (FULL BOARD) Wake up before midnight in the cover of darkness. We begin a steep climb over loose volcanic scree has some well-graded zig-zags and a slow but steady pace will take us to the rim of the main crater, Stella Point, at 5,735m. We will rest there for a few minutes to enjoy the sunrise over Mawenzi. Those who are still feeling good can continue slowly to make the two hour round trip from here along the crater rim to the main peak (5,895 m), which is the highest point in Africa. After a few minutes to appreciate your accomplishment we descend to Barafu is amazingly fast, and we stop at Barafu Camp for some refreshment, we continue to descend to reach Mweka Camp. Barafu Camp to Summit to Mweka Camp (3100 m): 13-15 hours walking. DAY 9: MWEKA GATE TO ARUSHA (FULL BOARD) A gentle walk takes us down through the rainforest to Mweka gate successful climbers will receive their summit certificates. After lunch, we drive back to Arusha at Karama Lodge and Spa. Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate: 3-5 hours walking. Dinner and overnight at Karama Lodge and Spa: Bed, dinner, and Breakfast-included. DAY 10: DEPARTING DAY: After saying bye to our team of guides then you need a private departure transfer which is included from Arusha to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for your flight unless you have an option to have a short safari or any other option we will discuss. E-mail us at any time to discuss your trip and get an accurate quotation. TREKKING KILIMANJARO FOR CHARITY CHALLENGE? The above climb can be undertaken for your own personal charity or group charity. KILIMANJARO CLIMB INCLUDES: • Tanzania VAT on tourism activities and park fees • Return transfers Kilimanjaro airport to Arusha and Arusha to Kilimanjaro airport • Hotel Lodging the night before and the night after the climb, with dinner and breakfast included (double occupancy) • Portable toilet (Chemical toilet) • Transfer from your hotel to starting point for your climb and return to your hotel after your climb • Large portions of fresh, healthy, nutritious food • All Kilimanjaro National Park gate fees, camping fees, and climbing permits. • Kilimanjaro National Park rescue fees (Kilimanjaro Rescue Team) • Emergency oxygen (for use in emergencies only – not as summiting aid) • Basic first aid kit (for use in emergencies only) • Qualified mountain guide, assistant guides, porters and cook • Salaries for the mountain crew as per guidelines set by Kilimanjaro National Park • Breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as hot drinks on the mountain • Camping equipment (tents, camp chairs, tables & sleeping mattress • Water for washing up daily • Porter to carry your duffel bag (max weight 15kg / 32 lbs) from one camp to the next camp. • Kilimanjaro National Park certificate for your successful summit attempt • A comprehensive Climbing Kilimanjaro travel info pack • Flying Doctor Service KILIMANJARO-SHIRA ROUTE 8 DAYS ITINERARY EXCLUDES: • Flights and airport taxes • Items of a personal nature • Compulsory tips for guides, porters and cook (average tip is anything from US $ 230 to US $ 300 per hiker – depending on the number of days / how many hikers in the group and route chosen) • South African passport holders do NOT require a visa for Tanzania, however, most other Nationalities require a visa for Tanzania • Health requirements (Yellow Fever compulsory if traveling to Tanzania recommended) • Highly recommended travel and medical insurance. • Personal hiking/trekking gear – we can rent some of the gear from our equipment store in Tanzani • Snacks, personal medicine, and water purifying tablets • Meals & drinks not specified and snacks. Safety Success is what we want during our trip. We are prepared for any urgent situation and also have in place a complete evacuation procedure in case of altitude sickness. We carry first aid supplies, supplement summit oxygen and Pulse Oximeters). Travel insurance all customers traveling with Kilipeak Adventure are required to have fully comprehensive travel insurance. The policy needs to be valid from the date that the initial order is placed so as to provide cover for a cancellation prior to departure. During travel, the insurance needs to provide comprehensive medical, evacuation and repatriation cover. Read the full article

[arplis]

Arplis - News: 38 Fun Things to Do in Tucson, Arizona

With incredible outdoor adventures, some of the best Mexican food in the U.S. (yes, seriously!), and a vibrant nightlife, Tucson may just be the perfect weekend getaway. Oh, and did we mention Tucson has wonderfully warm temperatures in the wintertime?! (Fellow Midwesterners, take note!)

The population of Tucson is just over half a million people, making it feel like a relatively small city. But dont be fooled there are an incredible amount of things to do in Tucson!

While there are many things to do in the city itself, the real draw of Tucson is what lies beyond. The Sonoran Desert which surrounds Tucson, is one of the only places in the world to see the iconic saguaro cactus, after all.

Were walking you through the very best things to do in Tucson, Arizona from epic outdoor adventures to foodie experiences to nightlife for all ages.

Our Experience in Tucson

Im going to be honest: Until recently, Tucson wasnt on my radar at all. Instead, I pictured the Grand Canyon and cities like Phoenix, Sedona and Scottsdale when I thought of Arizona.

So when my parents booked a 2-week Airbnb rental in Tucson to escape Minnesotas frigid winter clutches, I asked them, What is there to do in Tucson?

The timing was uncanny, because a week after my parents booked their trip, we were contacted by Visit Tucson (the tourism board) to work on a campaign with them. And all of a sudden, a city I hadnt ever thought much about took center stage in my mind.

When we started planning our trip to Tucson, I truly started to realize why my parents had booked 2 weeks there. As it turns out, theres a lot to do in this southwestern city!

This info-packed guide is full of top tips, where to stay, what foods to try , and everything else you need to know about planning an incredible trip to Tucson.

Contents:

Things to do in Tucson:

Outdoor Activities in Tucson

Food & Nightlife in Tucson

Art, Culture & History in Tucson

Planning your trip to Tucson:

Best Tucson Weekend Itinerary

Best time to visit Tucson

Where to stay in Tucson

How to Get Around Tucson

What to pack for Tucson

Tucson Map

Disclosure: This trip and article was sponsored by Visit Tucson. As always, all opinions are 100% honest and completely our own. Additionally, this article contains affiliate links. Read our disclosure policy for more information.

Outdoor Adventures in Tucson

If you like getting outside, youll find your bliss in Tucson because there are so many outdoor adventures to be had in the area surrounding this city.

1. Go horseback riding in the desert

I am going to embarrass Ben for a minute while I tell you something about him few people know: Hes afraid of horses.

Hes looking over my shoulder as I type this and saying, Im not afraid, I just think theyre smart and strong, and we should respect them.

Yeah, okay whatever, Ben.

But to his credit, he agreed to go horseback riding on our trip to Tucson. (Ive been asking him for the last couple of years, and he finally gave in.)

And you know what? When I asked Ben what his highlight was from our trip to Tucson, the first thing out of his mouth was, horseback riding!. So even if youre not an experienced rider, Bens reaction should give you some encouragement.

It was hands down one of my favorite experiences in Tucson too! We were able to see places we never would have without being saddled up on John Wayne and Mac (names of our horses).

Bobbi, the owner of Houstons Horseback Riding, led our group along the trail. We crossed rivers, ducked beneath low-hanging trees, and trotted past giant saguaro cacti with mountains looming in the distance. The landscape changed throughout the 2-hour journey, and the pace was slow and steady (great for those of us who arent experienced riders).

The views we got right up next to the saguaros on top of the horses was completely different than the perspective wed get walking on the trail with our own two feet. It was surreal.

And after chatting with Bobbi, its clear how much passion she has for this work. She has been working with horses for nearly her entire life and has passed on her admiration for these beautiful creatures to her children who help run the show as well. I mean, with about 30 horses to care for, the more hands the better.

So not only will you have an amazing experience with the horses, but youre supporting a family run business. Win-win!

Hours: Trail rides start at 9 a.m and 2:30 p.m.

Cost: $85 for a 2 hour walking ride

Book Your Horseback Ride Here!

Are you an experienced rider? If youre no stranger to horseback riding, you can book a private ride where your guide will adjust the speed to suit your experience level.

2. Visit Saguaro National Park

Saguaro are the huge cacti that adorn the Arizona license plate and serve as an icon of Southwest USA. And there is a National Park just 30 minutes from downtown Tucson that is dedicated to their existence.

Before we delve into the best things to do in Saguaro National Park, lets start with the basics pronunciation.

Say it with me: suh-waa-row

Now you wont embarrass yourselves like we did. (Youre welcome!)

And because I am fascinated by these cacti, Im gonna entertain you with some fun facts about the saguaro:

They can live to be 150 years old (some even are said to be 200 years old!).

They can grow up to 40-60 feet tall (12-18 meters).

They dont start growing arms until theyre around 70 years old.

They only grow in parts of the Sonoran Desert (a small area in Mexico, southern Arizona, and occasionally southeastern California.

They are expensive! Thats right, some people like to incorporate them into their landscaping, and the large ones can cost upwards of $10,000. The more arms it has, the more money it costs.

One foot of a saguaro weighs around 100 pounds!

We have a love affair with National Parks. Anyone else?! So it should come as no surprise that the first thing we plotted on our Tucson itinerary was a visit to Saguaro National Park.

And guess what?! It was our 20th US National Park! *cue champagne toast*

Saguaro is divided into two sections: one to the east and one to the west. In the middle lies the city of Tucson. Each side is a bit different. The west side of the park is more densely covered with saguaro, while the east side has more hiking trails and is more mountainous.

Try to see both sides if possible, but if youre short on time, visiting the west side of the park will be the best way to maximize your visit.

Best things to do in Saguaro National Park (with limited time):

West Side Saguaro National Park:

Drive around the 6-mile scenic Bajada Loop, and stop along the way at the spots listed below (plus any others that pique your interest):

Hugh Norris Trailhead: Hike up the trail for about 5-7 minutes and look west. Youll see tons of saguaro cacti and this spot would be wonderful for sunset.

Valley View Overlook Trail: 0.8-mile one-way (out and back) easy trail that is relatively flat. There are signs along the way pointing out the different types of plants and the final destination is a viewpoint over the vast valley below that is full of cacti.

Signal Hill Picnic Area: This short 0.3-mile hike up signal hill leads you to dozens of 800-year old petroglyphs that were created by the ancient Hohokam people.

East Side Saguaro National Park:

Drive along the Cactus Forest Drive Loop. It is an 8-mile self-drive loop that takes you to some of the major attractions in the east side of Saguaro National Park:

Mica View Trail: This relatively flat 2-mile return hike starts at a nice picnic area, goes through the cactus forest to East Broadway Blvd and back. You can also start the hike from E Broadway Blvd too.

Desert Ecology Trail: Paved 0.3-mile loop with signs to tell you more about desert plants. Great walk for kids.

Cactus Forest Trail: Splits the East Saguaro National Park from North to South. 5-mile return, mostly flat, but youll be surrounded with saguaro cacti the entire time.

Freeman Homestead Trail: Short 1-mile loop trail easy to do with kids. Youll walk by some of the biggest and oldest saguaros in the park.

Have more time in Saguaro National Park?

Douglas Spring Trailhead (East Side): This is a 16-mile out and back trail that is pretty flat for the first half and then switchbacks up the mountain until the top. About a quarter of the way on the trail, head to the left for 0.4 miles to see the Bridal Wreath Falls (dont expect a massive falls, but refreshing to see in the desert).

King Canyon Trail (West Side): The trailhead starts opposite of the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, this 7.1-mile moderate trail winds its way up to Wasson Peak. Many reports say its tough on the way up and you should start early, but youll be rewarded with an amazing view of the saguaro cacti filled desert.

Hours: Visitor Centers are open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. but the park is open to vehicles from sunrise to sunset.

Cost: weekly pass to Saguaro National Park is $25 per vehicle.

Insider tip: If you dont already have an America the Beautiful Pass, you might want to consider getting one before your trip to Tucson. It will not only cover your entrance to the National Park, but also to Sabino Canyon. Weve put together a guide thatll help you decide if the US National Park Pass is worth it for you.

3. Mountain Biking around Tucson

There are few things better than being outside, getting your heart pumping, and trying something totally new. And thats exactly what we did on our last morning in Tucson. We woke up before the sun, grabbed a breakfast burrito for fuel, and headed to a trailhead.

Tucson has some of the best places in Arizona if not the best for mountain biking. And whether youre a newbie to the sport (like us!) or a seasoned mountain biker, there are trails suited to all levels.

Important info about biking in Tucson:Here's the thing we wish we would have known before going mountain biking in Tucson... Some of the trails around the city are unsanctioned, meaningyou cannot legally ride on them without getting a permit. And the even sketchier thing is some mountain bike rental companies encourage riders to use these trails without first obtaining anArizonaState Trust Landpermit.

Even after quite a bit of sleuthing, we still can't figure out how a visitor to Tucson could actually purchase one of these permits (as the site to purchase them is broken). Moral of the story: When picking the trails you'll ride, be extra careful to choose only those that are sanctioned. Otherwise, you can be fined (and you're breaking the law).

Luckily, there are some reputable biking companies that follow the rules and encourage safe riding on trails that are open for the public to enjoy.

Our recommendation:Home Grown Mountain Bikingis a trusted company that offers rentals, shuttle services, and guided rides so you have an expert with you on the trails.Cost: Mountain bike rentals start at $120 per day. You'll find other package options as well as multi-day discounts.

Some popular mountain bike trails in Tucson (that don't require a permit):

Mount Lemmon:Lots of rugged terrain and temperatures that are significantly cooler than you'll find closer to the city, which makes for comfortable biking even in hotter months.

Catalina State Park, Oro Valley:Lots of beautiful trails, like the intermediate track "50 Year". Note: to enter Catalina State Park, you will need to pay $7 per vehicle.

Tucson Mountain Park:Here you'll find 50 miles of trails that are primarily beginner and intermediate levels.

Insider Tip:Download theTrailForks app to get a detailed look at the trail you plan to ride.

4. Explore Colossal Cave

Stalactites, stalagmites, and bat poo, oh my!

Ive had a fascination with caves since I was a child, so weve visited all different types of caves on our travels around the world. When we heard there was a cave in Tucson, we didnt need much convincing to squeeze a visit into our itinerary.

Located a short 15-minute drive southeast of Tucson, the Colossal Cave has a pretty interesting history. It was once used as a temporary shelter for the Hohokam people (the regions first inhabitants) as early as 900 AD. And later, this cave served as a hiding place for 19th-century outlaws who didnt want to be found.

To enter the Colossal Cave, you must book a guided tour. There are a handful of options to choose from:

Classic Cave Tour: Good introduction to the cave and suitable for all ages.

Length: 50-minute tour

Cost: Adults: $18, Children (5-12 yrs): $9, 4 and under: free

When: 8 tours a day, depart hourly from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Tip: Reservations are encouraged

Ladder Tour: Navigate narrow passageways, climb ladders, and cross rickety bridges in seldom-seen parts of the cave system.

Length: 1.5-hour tour

Cost: $35 per person

When: 2 tours a day 9:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.

Tip: Reservations required

Wild Cave Tour: The most adventurous of tours offered, guides will take you to the most remote parts of the cave system. Participants must be fit and ready for a rugged good time! Described as absolutely down-and-dirty caving!

Length: 3.5-hour tour

Cost: $85 (reservations required)

Restrictions: 16 years old and older

When: 1 tour a day at 1 p.m.

Tip: There is an Intermediate option as well as Advanced ($125).

Our Opinion: Due to our limited time, the Classic Cave Tour was the one that best fit into our schedule. While it was a good introduction, it wasnt anything too different from what weve seen in other cave systems. We wished we had booked the Ladder or Wild Tour, as it would have been a bit more up our alley in terms of adventure!

Learn more about each tour and make your bookings here.

5. Sunset in the desert

Look up to the skies at dusk and youre in for an incredible show put on by Mother Nature. Seriously though, Tucson is known for having some epic sunsets, so plan to be somewhere special for at least one of the evenings during your trip.

Theres nothing like seeing the cacti start to glow as the sky takes on a pinkish hue.

Some top spots around Tucson for sunset:

Gates Pass

Saguaro National Park

A Mountain

JW Marriot

Tucson Mountain Park

Mount Lemmon scenic drive

6. Get a view over Tucson from A Hill (aka Sentinel Peak Park)

Look to the horizon and you shouldnt have a problem spotting A Hill, which, as the name implies, is adorned with a giant letter A made of rocks. This tribute to the University of Arizona is not only a town icon, but it marks one of the best spots to get a view over the city.

As long as the sky is clear, any time of day will grant you a sweeping view. Get an early morning start here and view the city beneath blue skies.

Or come for that golden hour glow and stay after the sun goes down to see the city lights begin to sparkle. Just know that after the sun sets, this is clearly a makeout spot, which is slightly awkward...

Alternative: Are you looking to get a workout in instead of taking the easy way and driving to the top? Pat yourself on the back, and then head to Tumamoc Hill. The trailhead is just a few minutes drive past the starting point of Sentinel Peak. This short but steep climb is a 3-mile round trip with a 700-foot elevation gain.

7. Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum

I hate to admit it, but unless it is truly something special like the Met in NYC or the Uffizi in Florence I dont always prioritize fitting museums into our travel plans. Honestly, Id rather be outside or eating which I suppose could be my life motto.

However, once we saw reviews for the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, we decided to squeeze it into our itinerary. I mean, its the top-rated Tucson attraction on TripAdvisor (earning 5 stars with more than 8,000 reviews!), so surely it has to be worthwhile, right?

Honestly, after checking it out, I would say it depends. I know thats annoying to hear when trying to plan your itinerary, but keep reading to see if it is an experience thatll float your boat.

First things first, dont think of this as a typical museum... It's more of a zoo blended with a botanical garden and a dash of museum thrown in there for fun.

Youll find a huge variety of exhibits and lots of information around the park. To really explore everything thoroughly, youll need at least 2 hours.

Here are some of the main exhibits:

Aquarium

Raptor Flights

Hummingbird Aviary

Cave & Earth Sciences Center (the cave is artificial but pretty convincing)

Botanical Garden

Indoor Play Area for kids

One major perk to visiting the museum is your entrance fee will help contribute to their ongoing conservation and research efforts. One of their primary missions is to understand, connect people to and protect the natural systems of the Sonoran Desert Region.

Considering that the Sonoran Desert region is home to one of the greatest varieties of plants and animals out of any desert in the world, you can see it is pretty important work.

Interested in hearing more? Check out their website to see their current conservation and research projects.

Our thoughts on the Desert Museum:

Our favorite parts were the cave and gemstone exhibits. We are big rock nerds, so this part was especially cool. Theres even a little piece of rock from the moon on display which Ben geeked out about!

We think this would be a fun activity with kids (though we arent experts on the whole subject of children just yet!).

Honestly, zoos usually arent our thing (but thats a topic for another time). So we werent all that fond of the animal exhibits at this museum.

There is a small pool with stingrays where people can pay a small fee to touch them. We personally try to avoid any animal attraction that encourages touching.

Summary: Overall, this attraction is very well put together with accessible paths, frequent water fountains and toilets, lots of informational signs, and activities for children. You can learn a lot here and spend quite a bit of time exploring it all. However, if youre short on time, going into Saguaro National Park and Sabino Canyon are going to be even more worth your while.

Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Cost: Adults - $21.95, Seniors (65+) - $19.95, Children (3-12) - $9.95, Children (under 3) - Free

8. Go hiking in Sabino Canyon

Sitting in the foothills of the Santa Catalina Mountains, Sabino Canyon Recreation Center draws more than a million visitors annually. And for good reason: This place is absolutely stunning and packed with adventures for all types of travelers.

Encompassing two gorges: Sabino Canyon and Bear Canyon, you can choose to hike along paved or gravel paths, or you can save your legs some work and hop on a shuttle (for a fee).

Bear Canyon Shuttle: $6 adults, $4 ages 3-12; leaves every 30 minutes

Sabino Canyon Shuttle: $10 adults, $5 ages 3-12; leaves every 30 minutes

Seven Falls Hike

5 miles round trip

917 feet in elevation gain

If youre up for a challenging hike (thats well worth the effort), look no further than the Seven Falls Trail. You can hop on the Bear Canyon shuttle and get off at the last stop, which is at the trailhead. (Alternatively, you can skip the shuttle and hike the 2 miles to get to the trailhead.)

From here, its a 2.5-mile hike to the waterfalls that cascade over granite rocks to form pools that are perfect for taking a refreshing dip!

Important note: This trail requires some creek crossings, so be sure to check the conditions at the visitors center before attempting the hike. And be sure to carry plenty of water, as youll be hiking in some exposed areas and it can get very hot.

Cost: $8 per vehicle to enter Sabino Canyon

Hours: 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Good to know: If you have a National Park Pass, youll get into Sabino Canyon for free!

Planning your itinerary: Wed recommend combining a visit to Sabino Canyon and a drive up to Mount Lemmon (described below) on the same day since they are in the same relative area. If you plan to visit the DeGrazia Gallery as well (#19), you can tack it on the same day since its not far from Sabino Canyon.

9. Scenic drive to Mount Lemmon

When we started planning our trip to Tucson, at least three different people told us, You absolutely have to make the drive up to Mount Lemmon.

And were so happy we listened because it was one of the highlights of our trip. We only wish we had allotted more time to it.

This 40-mile drive snakes back and forth as it winds up through the mountains. There are viewpoints, pullouts, trailheads and campgrounds very frequently along the drive, so there are plenty of opportunities to stretch your legs and scope out the views.

Youll notice a drastic drop in temperature as you make your way up the mountain, and depending on the time of year, you may even start to see snow (a crazy sight when youre coming from the desert!).

At the very top of Mount Lemmon, sits the tiny town of Summerhaven, which is basically a handful of vacation homes and a few small stores. Satisfy your sweet tooth by sampling fudge at the General Store and ordering a cookie at the Mount Lemmon Cookie Cabin, and continue to drive to the Marshall Gulch Picnic Area where you can enjoy your sweet treats with some real food you packed!

Insider Tip: One of our friends messaged us and told us to go to the Cookie Cabin, for huge and delicious cookies. Sadly, we got the text too late. So if you have the chance, go to this mountaintop log cabin and order a giant cookie for us, please!

Another fun thing to see is the (tiny) Mount Lemmon Ski Valley before you begin your drive down the mountain.

How long does it take? The drive is roughly 42 miles from downtown Tucson and takes about 1 hour 20 minutes from bottom to top without stopping. Wed allot at least 3.5 - 4 hours for the drive up and down the mountain with a few stops along the way.

10. Explore Catalina State Park

Catalina State Park | Photo Credit: My Mom ;)

Sitting at the base of the Santa Catalina Mountains, this state park is a haven for desert wildlife and is home to more than 5,000 saguaros.

Come to Catalina State Park put a few more miles on your hiking boots or to have a relaxing picnic surrounded by nature.

Hikes in Catalina State Park:

Romero Ruins Interpretive Trail: This short and easy loop is 0.6 miles and has just 68 feet in elevation gain, making it a good hike for most people. The trail brings you past some historic dwellings and archaeological sites that are marked with signs.

Romero Pools: This 4.9-mile out and back trail is rated as intermediate, and has a 1,047-foot elevation gain. Your efforts will be rewarded as the trail culminates at some beautiful pools.

Cost: $7 per vehicle

11. Drive through Tucson Mountain Park

Another park in Tucson? Yep, thats right!

You will pass through the Tucson Mountain Park on your drive to the west portion of Saguaro National Park. And actually the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum and Old Tucson are both located within the parks boundaries.

There are no entry fees, and unless youre looking at your map, you might not even realize youre inside the park at all.

Insider Tip: Be sure to stop at the Gates Pass viewpoint for an epic look over the valley. It is especially beautiful during golden hour. There are a few nearby trailheads too, so youll have the chance to stretch your legs if needed.

12. Visit Kitts Observatory

Kitt's Observatory | Photo Credit: My Mom ;)

Are you as big of a space geek as Ben?! If so, a trip to Kitts Observatory might be right up your alley. You can visit during the day to learn about telescopes and all the work that goes on behind the scenes, or you can take a night time tour and see the stars. But be sure to check the weather before you book.

Also, if the weather is cold, be prepared with warmer clothes because it can get even colder up on the mountain. Bring a good pair of shoes too because there is quite a bit of walking in the tour.

13. Tour Biosphere 2

Biosphere 2 | Photo Credit: My Mom ;)

Could you live in a bubble for 2 years?! Thats what 8 scientists did back in 1991 when the Biosphere 2 was first introduced to the world. Their goal was to study how a mini-biosphere would work with as few outside variables as possible.

Today, you can visit Biosphere 2 and tour the different ecosystems which range from rainforest to the ocean to a model city. The guided tours take you through various stations and highlight the ongoing experiments happening in the Biosphere.

Inside Biosphere 2 | Photo Credit: My Mom ;)

Some tours are included with the General Admission fee, while other tours have an additional cost. Tours can take around 2 to 3 hours. Plus, getting to Biosphere 2 from the center of Tucson is roughly a 50-minute drive, so youll need to dedicate a good portion of a day to this excursion if you add it to your itinerary.

Hours: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily

Cost: Adults: $21, Kids $14

Check the Biosphere 2 website for more details on times and prices.

Fun Fact: If this is Biosphere 2, where is Biosphere 1? Well, youre living on it right now (aka Earth!). Mind blown!

Food & Nightlife in Tucson

Foodies are in for a treat because Tucson is packed with incredible dining options, especially when it comes to Mexican cuisine. And night owls will have a long list of things to do at night, from sampling the best local craft beer to enjoying live music on the town.

14. Eat ALL the Mexican Food

One of the things we were most excited for on this trip was the food. Mexican food, to be precise. #allthetacos

Being that this city is just over 60 miles from the border of Mexico, it should come as no surprise that Tucson is known for having a killer Mexican food scene. In fact, Tucson is the first UNESCO City of Gastronomy in the United States!

Psst! If youre a foodie, youll love this intro to the Tucson culinary scene!

The worst part of the food in Tucson was that we couldnt eat it all. Well, that and the fact that our weekend in Tucson obliterated our meager attempt at doing the Whole30 in January. I mean, Im not going to go to a Mexican food Mecca and not eat as many tacos, tamales and guacamole as possible. Its against the laws of nature.

If youre still reading my food-crazed ramblings, youre probably wondering where you can find the best Mexican food in Tucson, and youre about to be rewarded, friend.

While you dont have to look far to find good Mexican food in Tucson, were sharing some top recommendations, from super authentic hole-in-the-wall spots to refined Mexican restaurants with an exceptional dining experience:

Los Tacos Apson: Tiny, unassuming shop with authentic fare and a generous salsa/topping bar. We ordered a handful of items but our favorites were the taco al pastor and taco hass (carne asada, queso, chili verde); and as we were leaving, a local recommended we try the taco rasuada (grilled ribs) next time! This is also a great spot to try a caramelo, Tucsons take on a quesadilla (cheese and lots of meat grilled between tortillas).

Bocas y Tequila: Popular spot, especially with the university crowd, it seems. The tacos were super tasty (albeit not very hot, but we were there at a super busy hour!). The elote (Mexican street corn) was also very good.

Cafe Poca Cosa: An upscale Mexican restaurant with a menu that changes daily.

Taco Fish: Come here for fresh ceviche and tacos de pescado (fish) or camarones (shrimp).

Penca: Contemporary Mexican fusion with a chic atmosphere.

Mi Nidito: Serving Tucson since 1952, this place is a local legend known for large portions, delicious food, and as a place Bill Clinton once ate.

Taqueria Pico De Gallo: Best known for its award-winning fish tacos, this is another local favorite for authentic (and cheap!) tacos.

Taqueria Porfis: While the menu is small, thats okay because what they do, they do well. And the item theyre most famous for is their potato taco, which is stuffed with carne seca, tomatoes, lettuce, sour cream, and you guessed it potatoes!

Rollies Mexican Patio: Known for their rolled tacos, this cute and colorful cafe makes a great lunch stop.

El Charro Cafe: Set inside a century-old home, this restaurant serves up large home-cooked meals in a charming, yet casual atmosphere.

Fun Fact: This is the nations oldest Mexican restaurant run continuously by the same family.

Street Taco and Beer Co.: Good for late night bites, street tacos, and tequila cocktails.

Insider Tip: We read that if you want to find really authentic, no-frills Mexican food, head to the neighborhoods south of 22nd Street. And 12th Ave, which runs north to south, has a dense concentration of amazing Mexican restaurants.

These streets are part of whats known as the Best 23 Miles of Mexican Food (aka a 23-square-mile area in the city thats known as the best Mexican food north of the border).

15. Try a Sonoran Dog

Im not usually one to order hot dogs, but when we learned that Sonoran Dogs are a must try specialty from this region, we had to give it a go. For research purposes.

And lets just say Im pretty happy I made the sacrifice in the name of work. And while Sonoran Dogs arent something I would eat on a regular basis, they are pretty damn good.

So what exactly is a Sonoran Dog, you ask? This tasty blend of American and Mexican cuisine is comprised of bacon-wrapped hot dog, topped with pinto beans, chopped tomatoes, onions, mayonnaise, mustard and jalapeo salsa, all stuffed into a soft, sweet Mexican bun called a bolillo.

Rumor has it that there are two rival Sonora dog establishments in Tucson that both claim to serve the best:

BK Carne Asada & Hot Dogs: Winner of a Sonoran Dog locally-judged blind taste test against El Guero Canelo, it is definitely worth a try. They also have a large menu of fantastic Mexican fare, some may say the best in Tucson.

El Gero Canelo: With 3 locations in Tucson, this is a Tucson must! We sampled the one on Oracle road, and it did not disappoint. The combo of sweet, spicy and savory is an explosion in your mouth. Youre gonna want more than one.

After a little research, we chose to try our first Sonoran Dog at El Gero Canelo. While we dont have anything to compare it to, it was pretty darn tasty! If you have the time (and room in your tummy!), try them both on your trip to Tucson to determine the winner!

16. Sample Vegan Mexican Fare

Most restaurants featured on Diners, Drive-ins and Dives are laden with grease, layers of cheese, deep-fried everything, and meat. Lots of meat.

But an exception to this is Tucsons beloved Tumerico, which was featured on this hit series in 2018. This local favorite serves up scratch-made Mexican dishes with a menu that changes daily.

While clearly very popular, the service was fast, the prices reasonable, and the food delicious.

Our recommendations: The menu is constantly changing so we cant give specific recommendations, but if there is a taco made with jackfruit, TRY IT. You will thank us! Also, the turmeric lemonade was seriously yummy.

Moral of the story: Even if you do eat meat, Tumerico is well worth a visit.

Good to know: Tumerico is closed on Mondays.

More vegetarian options in Tucson

While these are not Mexican restaurants, here are a few other good options for vegetarians/vegans visiting Tucson.

Charro Vida: While not fully veggie, this Mexican-Mediterranean fusion restaurant (located close to Tohono Chul #35) donates proceeds to local school gardens throughout the region in partnership with the University of Arizona. Just looking at their menu makes my mouth water...

The Tasteful Kitchen: A somewhat upscale restaurant that specializes in vegan, gluten-free and raw cuisine. And while youre there, be sure to check out the mural depicting Mother Earth on the side of their building.

Urban Fresh: Casual cafe with plant-based wraps, salads and soups.

Zinmans Food Shop: carry-out spot with a patio, serving an eclectic assortment of dishes with influences from around the world.

17. Grab a cup of Tucsons best coffee

My name is Katie, and Im a coffee addict. If you are too, youll definitely want to start your day at Exo. Praised as the best coffee in Tucson, Exo does it all, and they do it well.

If you want to switch up your order and get something a little more unique than your everyday latte, order a chiltepin cold brew, which is made with spicy peppers!

And if your tummys a grumblin pick up one of their super tasty breakfast sandwiches, breakky bowls, or to keep the Mexican food theme going, try their breakfast tacos!

18. Visit a Farmers Market

When you combine locally grown produce, artisans selling their creations, and food vendors all in one place, youve got yourself some farmers market bliss.

With a handful of farmers markets around the Tucson area, youll likely be able to squeeze one during your trip.

Here are 3 farmers markets that are closest to town, and are easy to work into your sightseeing schedule:

Rillito Park: Makes a good stop if youre headed up to Catalina State Park, Tohono Chul, or over to Sabino Canyon.

Oro Valley: Stop here on your way to Catalina State Park.

Rincon Valley: Make a stop here on your drive down to Colossal Cave.

We visited the market in Rincon Valley on our way to the Colossal Cave, and while not huge, it was a nice stop to browse some local artists work and nibble on kettle corn!

Hours: All the markets listed above have the same hours.

Winter Hours (Oct. - Mar.): Saturdays, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Summer Hours (Apr. - Sept.): Saturdays, 8 a.m -12 p.m.

These farmers markets are all put together by an organization called Heirloom Farmers Markets, and you can find more info here.

19. Go on a Food Tour

Im someone who gets serious FOMO when it comes to food.

When visiting a city thats known for its food scene, I feel like I should try everything, which is not exactly an ideal habit for my waistline or my wallet.

If you can relate (yay, Im not alone!), youll want to keep reading because I recently found the cure: Food Tours!

Food tours are a way for you to try a little of each (my favorite!). Plus, your guide usually brings you to local spots you wouldn't find on your own, and gives you insight to the citys history, culture and culinary scene.

So if youre interested in food especially Mexican food (Tucsons pride and joy!), you might want to consider adding a food tour into your itinerary.

There are two companies that run highly-rated food tours in Tucson:

Tucson Food Tours

Taste of Tucson

Weve taken food tours all around the world, and wish we had time to take one on our trip to Tucson. Guess weve gotta save something for our next trip, right?!

20. Hang out in Mercado San Agustin

This square just west of downtown has a collection of high-end boutiques, produce vendors, artisans and eateries surrounding a pretty courtyard. We were there on a rainy day (a rare occurrence in Tucson!), but with nice weather, this would be a prime spot to wander and grab a bite.

Insider Tip: We were told that Seis Kitchen is amazing, and La Estrella Bakery also looks really good. Try them out and let us know what you think!

21. Eat a flight of Ice Cream

Can I confess something? I have an ice cream problem.

Someone once told me, No matter how full you are, theres always room for ice cream because it can fit in all the cracks! And I think Ive taken those words a little too seriously over the years.

This is coming from someone who almost missed the last train of the day in a tiny Italian village because I *needed* to get gelato. And someone who has (successfully) completed more than one ice cream eating challenge.

So lets just say you should consider me something of an expert on the topic of ice cream.

When I heard about the ice cream flights (yes flights!) at The Screamery, I told Ben we had to make it part of our itinerary.

And when I found out it was right across the street from our hotel as well as another highly rated ice cream shop (Hub), I told him we better go to both. Ya know, in order to research as many flavors as possible.

The Screamery: Tons of unique flavors to choose from, reasonable prices, and the option to have a flight!

Flavors we loved: Sweet Cream Honeycomb and Rough at Sea

Hub: A little more expensive, less choices, and no ice cream flight option (dang it!). But still seriously good ice cream.

Flavors we loved: Queen Bee and Mexican Hot Chocolate

Overall, theyre both really good choices. I think the ice cream was pretty similar in quality, so choose the one that has flavors youre more excited about.

22. Sample the best Craft Beer in Tucson

While not exactly the level of craft beer scene youll find in Portland, Tucson has a decent amount of breweries in town.

If youre a purveyor of craft brews (were right there with ya!), here are a few breweries youll want to check out:

Dragoon Brewing Company: Open warehouse-style brewery with a great selection of all kinds of brews. We sampled a flight here, and it was our favorite beer of the breweries we visited in Tucson, but a bit outside the center of town.

Barrio Brewing Co.: Rustic-chic brewery close to downtown with happy hour specials.

Public Brewhouse: Tucked in a dark alleyway, they brew a mean Belgian Dubbel. Worth a stop if youre exploring 4th Ave. Seems to be a pretty new spot, and popular with locals.

Pueblo Vida: Small, hip spot downtown with lots of unique fruit-forward IPAs and complex malty dark pours.

Gentle Bens Brewing: We wanted to visit this brewery just because of the name! Well, that, and it looks like they have some good brews!

Crooked Tooth Brewing Co.: Highly rated brews with a typical brick wall interior. Flights come on a skateboard!

Borderlands Brewing Company: German Chocolate Cake Porter, need I say more Okay I will: female head brewmaster, daily food trucks, & massive murals on the wall.

Iron Johns Brewing Company: Fantastic micro-brewery with crazy concoctions in the heart of downtown.

23. Soak up some speakeasy vibes

Weve been on a speakeasy kick lately. And Ive gotta say, Tucson has a few great options if youre looking for handcrafted cocktails, and a mysterious, 1920s-esque atmosphere.

The Independent Distillery: Pre-prohibition style bar serving their own spirits and enticing cocktails.

Surly Wench Pub: Good for a couple of drinks in what they call an industrial goth bar. The vibe we got was new-age biker bar but apparently the burgers are good.

Club Congress: Throw on your shiniest flapper dress and striped suit and step back in time to this historic bar. Not only do they host the best 1920s themed parties, they have a jammed-pack event calendar including rock bands, cabarets, free yoga and stand-up comics.

Tough Luck Club: In the basement of Reilly Craft Pizza (an old funeral home!), youll find this cozy cocktail bar. Oh, and outside is a beer garden if you prefer a more casual vibe.

24. Tequila toast at JW Marriott

When in the Arizona desert it only seems right to have some tequila! And do you know what the best kind of tequila is?

FREE tequila!

Now that Ive got your attention, lets talk about how to get that free tequila, shall we?

The JW Marriott is in a stunning location that gives new meaning to the term desert oasis. But even if you dont have the budget to splurge on a $250-per-night room, you can enjoy unrivaled views and a free tequila toast at sundown.

Simply show up to Salud, the Marriotts on-site bar and restaurant, to take part in their nightly tradition of raising a (complementary) shot of tequila and share the legend behind the classic Mexican cheers, arriba, abajo, al central, en dentro.

And of course as soon as the story is over, everyone gathered there is invited to raise their glasses and make a toast as the sun sets. Tequila is passed around at 5:30 p.m., so be sure to arrive a bit earlier to get a seat by a firepit and enjoy the view.

And if you feel so inclined, try one of their specialty handcrafted cocktails or order your liquor straight up from their selection of more than 150 tequilas. Who knew there were so many tequilas?!

25. Mezcal Tasting

Tequila gets a lot of hype in the US; but in Mexico, people are all about the mezcal!

We learned a lot about mezcal during our travels in Oaxaca, and have been really interested in tequilas smokier cousin ever since.

Whether youre a mezcal connoisseur or youve never heard of the stuff until now, doing a mezcal tasting is a great way to learn more about Mexicos favorite spirit.

While theyre best known for coffee, each Thursday starting at 7 p.m., Exo Coffee hosts an hour-long mezcal tasting at their onsite bar.

While sipping on samples of several high quality mezcal (they have a collection of more than 150 mezcals!), proprietor Doug Smith walks guests through everything youve ever wanted to know about this liquor. This informational tasting costs $20 and reservations are not necessary.

And if Thursday doesnt work for you, tastings are also offered Wednesdays and Sundays between 6 - 9 p.m. for $25. For these tastings, you must make a reservation in advance.

If youre not interested in a full tasting, you can always come during their bar hours to enjoy beer, wine, or mezcal cocktails. They have a great happy hour from 6 - 8 p.m., where cocktails are just $5, and beer and wine are $1 off.

26. Get your giggle on at a comedy show

Weve realized that comedy clubs almost always guarantee a night of fun! Plus, its a great way to spend an evening in a new city, and most big(ish) towns around the world have at least one comedy club.

Tucson is no exception. There are a handful of comedy clubs, but it seems that Laffs gets the biggest national names in stand-up, so we decided it would be a good way to spend our Friday night.

We gave the address of Laffs to our Uber drive and had no idea what to expect, but when we pulled up to a strip mall on the outskirts of suburbia, we were a little surprised.

And when we walked inside, we soon realized this no-frills club was not going to win us over on atmosphere. So we crossed our fingers that at least the show would be good

Lets just say that we were clutching our stomachs from laughing so hard for the next 90 minutes!

Weve been to enough comedy shows to know its not as much about the atmosphere as it is about the people on stage. The comics themselves are what are going to make the experience belly-hurts-from-laughing-so-hard good or just alright.

Theres always the off-chance that youll hate the comedians style of humor (which has happened to us in a comedy club with a top-notch atmosphere!).

We were at Laffs on a night with great talent, and hopefully youll catch a great line-up as well! Our advice is to read up on the comedian who is performing to see if youll like their style, or just show up with an open mind and ready for a laugh!

And dont worry, you wont go hungry or thirsty. There is a long list of cocktails with quirky names, a small selection of beer, and a menu of pub food and snacks.

Laffs has a handful of shows each week:

Thursdays: 8 p.m. Open Mic, free show!

Friday: 8 p.m. and 10:30 p.m., doors open at 7 p.m.

Saturday: 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m., doors open at 6 p.m.

Cost:

General Seating: $12.50

Preferred Seating: $17.50

You can pay in advance, or you can make a reservation but pay at the door.

Check out their schedule to see upcoming shows.

Psst! If youre into improv or are looking for a family-friendly comedy show, Unscrewed Theater might be more your scene.

27. Spend the evening at a Film Bar

Check Casa Film Bar's Facebook Page for New Showings

Looking for something fun and lowkey to do at night in Tucson? Oh, we have got just the idea for you!

Combine craft beer, food trucks and movies (three of our favorite things!), and youre in for a great time. Youll find this magical combo at Casa Film Bar, which is something of a local secret.

Essentially a bar inside a video rental store, come on a weekend night and youll be able to enjoy a movie showing with a craft brew (or wine or coffee).

They play films ranging from 90s classics, like Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, to little-known indie films, to brand new Oscar nominees (Once Upon a Time in Hollywood was playing while we were there, just 6 months after being released in theaters).

Casa Film Bar Schedule:

Films & rotating food trucks: Thursday, Fridays & Saturdays (check their Facebook page for showtimes and to see which food truck will be there).

Smartphone Trivia: Tuesdays from 7 - 9 p.m. (free to play & winners get prizes)

Food Truck only: Sundays 6 - 8 p.m., Pop's Hot Chicken is the Sunday evening staple

Not only will you be supporting one of the few standing video rental stores left, but youll be able to check out a local hot spot and have an all around good evening!

28. Live Music in Tucson

While Tucson certainly wont make the cut for top live music cities in the US, that doesnt mean you should give up hope on catching a performance. In fact, as we wandered around downtown and along 4th Ave, we heard more bands performing than we could count!

From hipster bars to honky tonks, and century-old theaters to swanky resort patios, youll have plenty of choices when it comes to choosing a spot to catch some tunes.

Here are some of the venues in Tucson that regularly host live music:

Thunder Canyon Brewery: Large brewery downtown that hosts live music.

La Cocina: This restaurant has a large menu and an even bigger patio, complete with cafe lights and live music on the weekends.

Club Congress: Its hard to beat the atmosphere youll find in Club Congress, though most acts that come through here require you buy a ticket in advance.

Ches Lounge: Yummy cocktails and beer with an outdoor patio and stage for music.

Exo Coffee: Not just a coffee shop, Exo also has a mezcal bar and hosts live music most weekend nights!

Hacienda Del Sols Terraza: If you prefer your live music with a side of class and a bottle of fine wine, the patio at Hacienda del Sol is a good place to catch some jazz or classical tunes as the sun sets.

29. Nightlife on 4th Ave

Being that this street sits directly between the university campus and downtown, it draws a young student crowd as well as a mix of young professionals and tourists. And lemme tell ya: It comes alive at night!

You can find all sorts of quirky bars, restaurants of all kinds, cafes with poetry readings, and shops selling everything from cowboy boots to hippy garb.

Walk down 4th Ave and pop into any establishment that strikes your fancy.

30. Brunch in Tucson

Need a pick-me-up after a big night out on 4th Ave? Lucky for you, Tucson has some amazing brunch options thatll get you feeling like yourself in no time!

Insider Tip: If youre looking for a kickass Bloody Mary to start your day, Elliotts on Congress is where youll want to go. Their infused vodkas make a great base for the drink, and if you like spicy, order the Habanero Bloody for a real wake up call!

And even if youre not hungover, who doesnt love a good brunch?

Seasonal fruit, eggs, flaky pastries fresh outta the oven, housemade jam youre speaking my language! Oh, and we cant forget about the mimosas and bloody Marys.

Tucson has a healthy variety of brunch spots that are sure to strike your fancy:

Prep and Pastry

Cup Cafe

Baja Cafe

Five Points Market

Cafe a La CArt

Art, Culture & History in Tucson

For lovers of all things art, history and culture, theres no shortage of ways to fill up your time in Tucson. Were sharing some of the top things to do if you want to delve into this citys history and art scene.

31. Hunt for Street Art!

Tucsons street art scene is off the hook!

Ermmm do people even say off the hook anymore? Im going to assume no, but still, you know what I mean.

Youll notice colorful murals covering the sides of buildings all over town. Depictions range from desert scenes, to whales and fish, to cultural references, to random but pretty paintings of birds

You really wont have to make much of an effort to spot murals around town, but if you want some direction, here are some of our personal favorite murals in Tucson (and their location pins):

Whale mural by Joe Pagac

Goddess of Agave

Greetings from Tucson Postcard

Girl in Barrio Viejo (Across the street from El Tiradito)

Girl by Charro del Rey

32. Visit Mission San Xavier del Bac

One of Tucsons most iconic buildings, the Mission San Xavier del Bac is a not only a historic landmark, but it also still operates as a church to this day. If you happen to visit on a Sunday, you might just see a church service taking place.

This building is a beautiful example of 18th-century architecture, and has been nicknamed the White Dove of the Desert. As you wander around the mission and church property, youll notice influences of Renaissance, Byzantine and Mexican architecture styles.

If youre interested in hearing about the churchs history, consider taking a guided tour. They are free to join and dont require making a reservation. Simply show up at the museum entrance to join in this 45-minute tour. Tours run quite frequently, but timing depends on the season. Check here for tour hours.

Feeling hungry? If you happen to be visiting Mission San Xavier del Bac on a weekend, keep your eyes peeled for food vendors from the Tohono Oodham Nation who often sell frybread tacos in the open-air market space just across from the mission.

Frybread is pretty much just what it sounds like, a dough (sort of similar in appearance to naan) that has been deep fried to golden deliciousness. This traditional Native American staple is then topped with different ingredients, either sweet or savory.

Weve tried frybread tacos once before, and theyre really tasty. Theyre not all that easy to find in most places, so do yourself a favor and try one while youre at the mission!

Mission San Xavier del Bac Hours:

Hours: 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Cost: Free, donations welcome

Insider Tip: If you arrive in Tucson at a reasonable hour and arent too tired, wed recommend heading straight to Mission San Xavier from the airport, as its quite close (and a bit out of the way to come from downtown Tucson). Alternatively, you could stop for a quick visit before heading to the airport on your way out of Tucson.

33. Visit the historic Hotel Congress

It might seem strange that we have a hotel on our list of things to do, but hear us out...

Nestled right in the center of downtown, Hotel Congress is the stuff of local legends. Built just after the turn of the 20th century, it was here that John Dillinger, an infamous American gangster during the Great Depression era, was arrested and brought to jail.

Although he later escaped, Tucsonians take great pride in the fact that Dillinger, a prolific bank robber, was caught in their city. They are so proud, in fact, that there is an annual celebration and recreation of these events which takes place each year in mid-January (we were actually there for it!).

Hotel Congress still retains its quirky, colorful, historic charm. And walking into the lobby feels as if youve stepped back in time. Grab a drink at one of the many onsite bars, or catch a concert at Club Congress. And if you want to spend the night, the historic rooms are cozy, however, there is a caveat...

Our honest opinion: We stayed at Hotel Congress during our trip to Tucson, and while we would definitely recommend stopping in for a drink and checking it out, we would not advise staying here unless youre in Tucson to party.

They dont try to hide the fact that this hotel gets loud like really loud at night. There are even ear plugs in each room. Lets just say we did not sleep very well during our entire 3 nights in Tucson.

Interesting Fact: It is said that Hotel Congress is haunted! While were not ones to really believe these things, we did have a very weird experience where our closet door swung open suddenly. And at night, the 2nd floor where we were staying smelled like smoke from a fire. Spooky...

34.DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun

If youre an art buff, the DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun makes an interesting stop. This is a gallery dedicated to the works of one man: Ettore Ted DeGrazia.

Dont worry, I hadnt heard of him either; but DeGrazia is pretty well-known in Arizona.

So who is Ettore DeGrazia? Well, heres the short version:

DeGrazia was born into a family of Italian immigrants who lived in a mining camp in rural Arizona. Ettore later enrolled at the University of Arizona, and created a life around his passion: art.

In adulthood, he married (twice) and bought a 10-acre plot of land in the foothills of the Santa Catalina Mountains which would become both his home and gallery.

His works were underappreciated for many years until his oil painting Los Nios was selected by UNICEF to be printed on a 1960 holiday card, which sold millions worldwide. DeGrazias fame spread during the next decade, drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors to his gallery each year.

Visiting the Gallery in the Sun

A visit to the Gallery in the Sun will leave you in awe at the sheer amount of artwork DeGrazia created in his lifetime. The museum has a rotating collection of more than 15,000 DeGrazia originals! Anyone else wondering how he had enough hours in the day to make all of this?!

DeGrazia liked using all different mediums. Youll see oils, watercolors, sketches and even pottery on display. And another impressive fact is that the gallery was designed by DeGrazia himself.

When you visit the Gallery in the Sun, not only will you see DeGrazias artwork, but youll also be able to walk through his home and his private chapel, both of which are on the property.

Hours: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., daily

Cost: $8 for adults, $5 for ages 12-18, children under 12 are free

35. Wander the gardens at Tohono Chul

Hailed as one of the countrys best botanical gardens by Travel + Leisure, Tohono Chul is popular with locals and visitors alike. Covering nearly 50 acres, this is said to be a place where nature, art, and culture connect.

But were not gonna gloss over the fact that when we visited in mid-January, there wasnt all that much to see due to the transition of seasons.

Wed imagine during other times of the year, there are more things to see. Weve heard March is particularly beautiful with the desert flowers starting to bloom. They also host occasional live music and other events throughout the year.

Our Opinion: Before planning your visit, wed do some research to see if it will be worthwhile during the season in which youre visiting. Perhaps between the months of March and May there would be more to see, as the desert flowers are in bloom during this time.

Hours: 8 a.m. - 5 .p.m.

Cost: Adults - $15, Children (5-12) - $6, Children under 5 - Free, Seniors (62+) - $13

36. Explore Barrio Viejo

Translating to old neighborhood, Barrio Viejo is just that: a section of Tucson that still has old charm. Sometimes called the real "soul" of Tucson, you can drive around and see colorful Spanish Colonial architecture and find authentic Mexican restaurants.

While some parts of the neighborhood are lively, there are other sections that have a run-down feeling.

We drove around Barrio Viejo for a while trying to find some of the beautiful, colorful adobe houses we had seen pictures of.

So to point you in the right direction (and minimize your time spent driving around in circles like we did!), here are some points of interest in Barrio Viejo (Note: please be respectful in this neighborhood because people do live here):

Colorful houses on S Meyer Ave and W Kennedy St (and further south on Meyer Ave until 22nd St)

El Tiradito Shrine (described below)

El Minuto Cafe: Mexican restaurant next to El Tiradito

The Coronet: brunch and late night food

Five Points Market & Restaurant: cute and lively brunch spot

Cafe Desta: popular Ethiopian restaurant

37. Visit El Tiradito Shrine

If youre exploring the Barrio Viejo neighborhood, make a quick visit to the El Tiradito Shrine. Stopping here only requires a few minutes and to the naked eye its nothing too special.

It is scattered with candles, flowers, and images of saints. But this is no ordinary shrine, folks. And once you know the legend behind this shrine, its kind of an interesting place to see.

Nicknamed the wishing shrine, El Tiradito is the USs only Catholic shrine dedicated to a.... wait for it SINNER! Scandalous, I know. But thats not even the crazy part.

Heres the short version of the legend of Juan Oliveras, the man who is buried beneath El Tiradito Shrine: Juan, a young ranch-hand, is married to his bosss daughter, but soon becomes infatuated with his mother-in-law (yep, you read that right), and makes a move. The two carry on an affair, which is eventually busted by the husband/father-in-law/boss. Ouch!

He gets so angry that he kills Juan right there before escaping to Mexico, where he is later murdered. The wife allegedly kills herself, and after all this horrifying drama and death, the daughter (who, by the way, we should mention is pregnant with Juans child) hangs herself as well.

It is said that Juan is buried beneath El Tiradito, a shrine that people visit for all different reasons. Some come out of sheer curiosity about the legend and others see it on a things to do in Tucson list, like this one!

But there is another group of people who come to this spot: Those who empathize with Juan and have similar love triangles in their own lives. It is said that if you write your wish on a piece of paper and have good intentions, it will come true.

Just behind the shrine is a crumbling brick wall, and if you look closely, youll see scraps of paper stuffed in the holes between bricks, many of which are wishes from past visitors.

This shrine was almost demolished when the city was building a new highway, but people in the community fought to preserve it. Perhaps they want to protect history, or maybe some people are protecting their wishes!

38. Step back in time at Old Tucson

Old Tucson | Photo Credit: My Mom ;)

Walk through what looks like a scene straight out of a John Wayne film, and watch as actors from the Wild West perform demonstrations and stunts.

Old Tucson is an amusement park of sorts, complete with a town hall, a saloon and a haunted mine, like all good Western desert towns have.

We didnt have enough time to visit Old Tucson during our weekend trip, and to be honest, it didnt really seem like our type of place. However, if youre looking for things to do in Tucson with kids, this could be a fun activity for a family.

Be sure to look up the schedule of events to time your visit right.

Cost: Adults: $21.95, Children (4-11): $10.95, Children under 4: Free

Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (times may change seasonally)

Best Tucson Weekend Itinerary

Are you overwhelmed with the massive list we just gave you?

Dont worry, were going to help you pare it down a bit. Below, weve listed some highlights you can choose from based on your travel style:

If you love the outdoors:

Visit Saguaro National Park

Hike to Seven Falls in Sabino Canyon

Drive up to Mount Lemmon and stop on the way for hikes and lookout points

Explore Romero Ruins in Catalina

If youre traveling with kids in Tucson:

Do the Classic Tour at Colossal Cave

Sonoran Desert Museum

Go horseback riding

Order an ice cream flight at The Screamery

Visit Old Tucson

If youre into food:

Eat a Sonoran Dog

Check out our list of top Mexican food and try as many as you can!

Have a leisurely brunch

Order an ice cream flight at The Screamery

Go on a Tucson food tour

Try a vegan Mexican meal at Tumerico

If youre an art & culture lover:

Check out the Degrazia Gallery in the Sun

Explore Barrio Viejo and visit El Tiradito Shrine

Visit Tohono Chul botanical gardens (if the time of year is right)

Spend an evening at Casa Film Bar

Visit the Tucson Museum of Art

If youre into nightlife:

Tequila toast at the JW Marriot at sunset

Go brewery hopping

Scope out some live music

Grab a drink at Hotel Congress

Head to 4th Ave after dark for a night on the town

Do a mezcal tasting

If youre on a budget:

Do the scenic drive to Mount Lemmon

Go on a scavenger hunt to find as much street art as you can!

Watch sunset at A Hill with a view over Tucson

Have a picnic lunch

If youre craving adventure:

Go mountain biking

Go horseback riding

Book the Ladder or Wild Cave Tour at Colossal Cave

Hike to Seven Falls in the Sabino Canyon

Best time to visit Tucson, Arizona

Tucson is a great destination year round, however it can get quite hot in the summertime (albeit a dry heat). June is the hottest month in Tucson, with average highs soaring to 103F (40C). Yikes!

For the most comfortable temperatures, plan your trip to Tucson between mid-September and mid-May.

Even during December (Tucsons coldest month), the average temperature hovers just above 50F (10C) and it rarely dips below freezing. This weather will feel downright balmy to anyone from the Midwest (peace out Polar Vortex!).

Being that Tucson is smack dab in the middle of the desert, there is little chance that rain will ruin your vacation (unless youre traveling during the monsoon season of July and August). We arrived in Tucson on a rare rainy day, but by the next morning, most of the puddles had evaporated and there wasnt a cloud to be seen!

Another thing to keep in mind about this desert city is that temperatures can drop drastically from midday to evening. Be sure to pack layers to keep warm during the nights.

When Do the Desert Flowers Bloom?

It depends on the plant, but the flowering season is from mid-February to mid-June, with the biggest blooms peaking from mid-March to late April. Each year is different depending on rainfall, freezing temperatures during the winter, and springtime weather during the growing season.

Where to Stay in Tucson

Most of the time when were visiting a city, we like staying downtown so we can walk places and be near all the major sights. But depending on your interests, Tucson is a place where wed actually say you dont need to stay in the city center. As you can see from reading our massive list of things to do, many of Tucson's major attractions are on the outskirts of the city.

Weve rounded up some recommended Tucson hotels and Airbnbs below, with a mix of locations in the city as well as some that are a literal desert oasis.

Hotels in Tucson, Arizona

JW Marriott Tucson Starr Pass Resort

In the foothills of Tucsons Mountain Park, sits the massive JW Marriott Tucson Starr Pass Resort. With easy access to Gates Pass and the Western Side of Saguaro National Park, this resort has a great location. It also has 3 golf courses, 4 restaurants (with a daily tequila toast!), and 3 outdoor pools, you can really enjoy your stay in Tucson.

Azure Gate B&B

Located in NE Tucson, this charming B&B is a quick drive to the Sabino Canyon Recreation Area or the East Side of Saguaro National Park. Included in each stay is daily ( breakfast, an onsite pool, and free parking.

Hotel McCoy - Art, Coffee, Beer, Wine

This modern hotel is perfect for a couple or a family who wants to stay a little bit outside of downtown. There are murals everywhere (check out the pictures!), an excellent staff, and a daily continental breakfast.

Hotel Congress

If youre looking to stay downtown, Hotel Congress has an unrivaled location. Add to that its historic charm, and you might be ready to book. However, we would be remiss if we didnt mention that this hotel is directly above a club, and it can get incredibly loud on weekend nights.

So loud, in fact, that the hotel provides guests with ear plugs. If that doesnt scare you away, then you might love staying at this historic property.

Airbnbs in Tucson

There are tons of amazing Airbnb options in Tucson. Overall, they are very reasonably priced, and some even have pools. Just take a look at some of the Airbnbs we hand-selected for you!

Insider Tip: Find out how we set our Airbnb filters to find the best properties anywhere in the world!

'Case Study' Guest House: Charming guest house and hosts. Youll have the entire place yourself with a full kitchen and a rain shower in the bathroom. Southeast of Downtown. Check Availability here.

Historic 4th Ave Herbie House: Beautiful studio apartment in the 4th Avenue Neighborhood. Close to bars, restaurants and the metro stops. Check Availability here.

Sonoran Desert Retreat: This inexpensive but lovely place is located in the Catalina Foothills close to shops and restaurants. This would be perfect for a couple looking to get away from the busyness of town. Check Availability here.

Self Check in Airbnb - Near I-10: This cheap Airbnb is located in the northern suburbs of Tucson and is great for a solo travel or a couple wanting to mountain bike the local tracks. Its a small, clean studio, but it has everything you need for a basic stay. Check Availability here.

Tucson Poet's Studio: This Santa Fe Style studio comes with a beehive corner fireplace and a small lounging outdoor pool. Its pretty close to central Tucson just a few blocks east of the university, so its a great location for exploring. Check Availability here.

Psst! Is it your first time using Airbnb? Follow this link and well give you $55 off Airbnb!

Getting Around Tucson

While Tucson itself is a relatively small city, youve probably noticed that most of the major attractions are outside the center. In order to be able to see the best things to do in Tucson, you really do need a car to get around.

Rental Car

If youre flying into Tucson, you can pick up your rental car at the airport. We usually reserve cars through RentalCars.com because we have used them before and they have the best deals for rental cars. When searching I found deals around $36 per day for a standard sedan, which is all you would need in Tucson.

However, this time, we tried reserving our rental car through our American Express Platinum card and we found the same cars for about $23 per day! This saved us about $40 over the 3 days we were visiting Tucson. Head to this article if you want to learn more about the travel credit cards we use to get free or discounted travel.

When driving in Tucson: Be aware that some areas have speed traps enforced by cameras, so keep an eye on your odometer.

Uber or Lyft

If you plan to have a few beverages out on the town, dont risk driving. Instead, order an Uber to get you where you need to go. Downtown Tucson is not that big so rides are pretty cheap.

Metro

In Tucson there is a Light Rail metro line called the SunLink that connects University of Arizona to the 4th Ave District to Downtown (Centro) and finally to the Mercado District including Mercado San Agustin.

For a single one-way fare it costs $1.75, but you can purchase a 1-Day SunGO ticket for $4.50 which is good for 24 hours.

What to pack for a trip to Tucson

Camelback (if you think youll be hiking a lot)

Daypack for hikes

Chacos or other hiking shoes that wont get too hot

Closed toe shoes (for horseback riding or mountain biking)

Layers (it gets cold at night and hot during the day)

Swim suit (if your hotel has a pool)

Sunscreen

Sunglasses

Reusables: Weve been kind of living in a bubble in Oregon where plastic bags are banned and many establishments encourage you to bring your own reusables, or provide a somewhat eco-friendly option (like wooden utensils and paper straws).

While many Tucson restaurants and accommodations, like Charro Vida, Boca Tacos y Tequila and Hotel Congress, offer eco-friendly options, there is still a lot of room for improvement when it comes to reducing unnecessary waste (just like many other cities around the U.S.).

We had our reusables packed (as we always do!) which helped a bit, but it was still a challenge.

Responsible Travel Tip: Pack your reusables (listed below), and eat inside restaurants as much as possible to avoid waste like styrofoam and plastic utensils.

Its difficult to avoid it altogether, but wed recommend bringing the following to help you reduce the waste you create:

Coffee tumbler

Utensil set (great for picnics!)

Reusable straws

Reusable bag (one that stuffs up like this is great!)

Water bottle

For more tips on how to reduce your waste while traveling, check out our article on 18 Simple Ways to Reduce Your Plastic Use Everyday.

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Plan a Trip to Zion National Park

Going to Tucson soon? Share this Article on Pinterest!

We want to hear from you!

Are you planning a trip to Tucson? What things are on the top of your list? Do you have any additional questions for us? Write to us in the comments below and well do our best to get back to you!

Arplis - News source https://arplis.com/blogs/news/38-fun-things-to-do-in-tucson-arizona

[pressreleasepower]

Mompreneurs Navigate the New Economic Highway

With big business failing all around us, the world needs entrepreneurs, however a recent study done by Inc. magazine and National Business Incubator Association revealed 80% of new businesses fail within the first five years. Throw tough economic times into the mix, and how will new mom-businesses ever survive

Three savvy mompreneurs have already begun to brainstorm about strategic ways to get through these uncertain times and come out stronger and more successful. By nature, Mompreneurs are good at analyzing situations, switching gears quickly and juggling tough issues because of the constant demands of motherhood, relationships and running a new business. So trying to decide how to navigate a new business during uncertain economic times is just another challenge for the list!

Kim Maksymuik has been in business for a year with her family communication game, The Chatterbox. Karyn Climans is in her 4th year of business with her adorable Tail Wags helmet covers that promote safety and fun for bike, skate, ski, snowboard, toboggan, and equestrian helmets. I am in my 3rd year of business as the founder and creator of award winning learning kits for babies and toddlers.

The trailblazing trio share some suggestions for tough times ahead:

Divide & Conquer

We have reduced expenses by concentrating on using each other's strengths to divide & conquer! Who needs a PR firm, when I have a strong background in public relations. When we have sales questions, we go to Karyn, whose savvy sales skills have landed her product in retail outlets across Canada, the USA and international. Kim contributes her networking and research prowess to critique the best consumer and tradeshows, mommy blogs with the most traffic and bang for their buck. She looks outside the box for new opportunities.

Learn from each other's mistakes

We share our mistakes. According to Karyn from Tail Wags, she paid $3,000.00 for an expensive marketing tool that resulted in NO sales at a recent trade show! It was heavily marketed to her as a guaranteed way to bring increased traffic to the booth. When she reflects on the tool, she realizes that she is her best sales force! It is her energy and passion for Tail Wags that draws people close to the booth. All of the marketing firms are pushing harder than ever to reel in new customers. There are less expensive and more effective ways to market ones own business. The key to a successful business is a great product/service and passion for what you are selling.

Think outside the Box

We look to Kim's example to continuously challenge ourselves to think unconventionally. When Chatterbox was launched, she followed the lead of others who had created a product for children. She approached the independent toy stores, went to industry trade shows and contacted the big box stores. She quickly realized that there are hundreds of people trying to get into these locations. Also, even if The Chatterbox made it to the shelves, without an advertising budget, what would make the consumer notice the product? Her solution was to approach a retailer that had the same target market but that traditionally would not carry a product like hers. She carefully chose a national retailer that mirrored the company's values and growth goals. As a result, The Chatterbox has national distribution with a retailer who happily promotes the product.

Public Relations/Sales

We are working together to maximize our free publicity. We share media contacts and opportunities. We collaborate on press releases and pitches to make it easier for journalists to access our information. We are constantly developing new angles for our business, bouncing ideas off each other and trying to include one another where ever possible. We share retail contacts from around the globe. If one store seems particularly open to carrying mompreneur products, we pass the information along and e-mail introductions if there is a good fit. We are compiling a list of consumer and tradeshows and critiquing them based on attendance, sales, target audience, cost of show vs break even point. Our products appeal to many different audiences, so we are working to compare apples to apples!

Analyze traffic from Mom Blogs

After a year of giving away samples and contest prizes to mommy blogs across North America, as budgets tighten there is a need to become more discerning. We are comparing notes regarding on-line sales generated from blog exposure, website hits and the truth behind the numbers of readers claimed to be reading the blog!

Objective Support for each other's business

Every entrepreneur runs the risk of being too close to their idea, so they are not always objective. We help each other to see things in different ways. We suggest other directions, other target audiences and other methods of gaining exposure. Being a trail blazing mompreneur can be lonely. We regularly share tips on how to work more effectively. Recently, I explained my morning ritual of dividing a piece of paper into 4. One section for PR, one for sales, one for administration and one for new opportunities. I try to address one thing from each box everyday. Kim quickly picked up this tip and has found it extremely useful!

A healthy dose of optimism!

We all agree optimism is a key trait in every successful entrepreneur. After a disastrous turnout and low sales at a recent consumer show, we laughed as we set up for the next show. All of us brought as much product or more because we all see the glass as half-full. Staying optimistic, being strategic and cultivating powerful relationships with other mompreneurs will get us through these uncertain times

[jackdoakstx]

Regional book review: “Imagining a Great Republic”

Rowman & Littlefield

“Imagining a Great Republic” by Thomas E. Cronin

“Imagining a Great Republic” by Thomas E. Cronin

Fiction gives heart and soul to the bones of history.  Novelists, not historians, are the writers charged with evoking the human element.  In “Imagining a Great Republic,” Thomas E. Cronin —  a Colorado College professor and expert on American politics —  tells of the great novels, from Uncle Tom’s Cabin” to “Beloved,” that raised American readers’ consciousness or called us to action.

Political novelists are a moral compass. “The American political novel may be primarily written to entertain us,” Cronin writes. Still, “good writers want to be renouncers of lies, restorers of truths, and undaunted advocates of what communities, and the nation, ideally might become.”

Most political novelists are optimistic. Their storytelling is a “means of pointing the way to a more desired future,” the author says. They are realists, and a surprising number of them are women, even back in a time when women couldn’t vote.  Writing a political novel can be a form of political activism, he says, although many writers are introverts, using their pens, not their actions to promote change.

In an extensively researched work that is a major addition to literary interpretation, Cronin evaluates some 40 novels, dividing them into four categories. He sees the novelist as:

 Political agitator:  Harriet Beecher Stowe’s “Uncle Tom’s Cabin” and Upton Sinclair’s “The Jungle.” Both led to significant changes.  Stowe’s book contributed to the start of the Civil War, of course, and the Sinclair novel brought about regulations in the meat industry.

 Consciousness raiser: Harper Lee’s “To Kill A Mockingbird” — who couldn’t be indignant about treatment of blacks after reading it? — and Colorado author Helen Hunt Jackson’s “Ramona, considered an Indian version of “Uncle Tom’s Cabin.”

     Political satirist: Richard Condon’s “The Manchurian Candidate,” Joseph Heller’s “Catch-22” and Hunter S. Thompson’s “Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas.”

    Political anthropologist:  Margaret Mitchell’s “Gone With The Wind” and almost anything written by Horatio Alger.

In addition, Cronin includes a section on the novelist on the campaign trail.

Related Articles

January 18, 2018 Staff Pick: “Hue 1968” is an unsparing look at the Vietnam War and how it changed America

January 18, 2018 Imagining Colorado: Books, authors with connections to the Centennial State

January 17, 2018 Book review: Burke’s Robicheaux is back, and is as good as ever

January 11, 2018 Book review: “Fire and Fury” is the hottest book of 2018 — too bad it’s so dull

January 3, 2018 Regional books: Margaret Coel; “The Accidents”; “The Last Suppers”

Most of the books he features are well-known, but Cronin gives a nod to “1988,” “an overlooked novel of special interest” by former Colorado Gov. Richard D. Lamm and Arnold Grossman. Cronin describes it as part political thriller and part political anthropology, “a delight for political junkies.”

“Imagining a Great Republic” is a comprehensive and thought-provoking book that underscores the importance of literature in shaping a free society.  Cronin concludes that “the best political writers remind us of the work to be done.”

from News And Updates https://www.denverpost.com/2018/01/25/imagining-a-great-republic-thomas-e-cronin-book-review/

[laurendzim]

Regional book review: “Imagining a Great Republic”

Rowman & Littlefield

“Imagining a Great Republic” by Thomas E. Cronin

“Imagining a Great Republic” by Thomas E. Cronin

Fiction gives heart and soul to the bones of history.  Novelists, not historians, are the writers charged with evoking the human element.  In “Imagining a Great Republic,” Thomas E. Cronin —  a Colorado College professor and expert on American politics —  tells of the great novels, from Uncle Tom’s Cabin” to “Beloved,” that raised American readers’ consciousness or called us to action.

Political novelists are a moral compass. “The American political novel may be primarily written to entertain us,” Cronin writes. Still, “good writers want to be renouncers of lies, restorers of truths, and undaunted advocates of what communities, and the nation, ideally might become.”

Most political novelists are optimistic. Their storytelling is a “means of pointing the way to a more desired future,” the author says. They are realists, and a surprising number of them are women, even back in a time when women couldn’t vote.  Writing a political novel can be a form of political activism, he says, although many writers are introverts, using their pens, not their actions to promote change.

In an extensively researched work that is a major addition to literary interpretation, Cronin evaluates some 40 novels, dividing them into four categories. He sees the novelist as:

 Political agitator:  Harriet Beecher Stowe’s “Uncle Tom’s Cabin” and Upton Sinclair’s “The Jungle.” Both led to significant changes.  Stowe’s book contributed to the start of the Civil War, of course, and the Sinclair novel brought about regulations in the meat industry.

 Consciousness raiser: Harper Lee’s “To Kill A Mockingbird” — who couldn’t be indignant about treatment of blacks after reading it? — and Colorado author Helen Hunt Jackson’s “Ramona, considered an Indian version of “Uncle Tom’s Cabin.”

     Political satirist: Richard Condon’s “The Manchurian Candidate,” Joseph Heller’s “Catch-22” and Hunter S. Thompson’s “Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas.”

    Political anthropologist:  Margaret Mitchell’s “Gone With The Wind” and almost anything written by Horatio Alger.

In addition, Cronin includes a section on the novelist on the campaign trail.

Related Articles

January 18, 2018 Staff Pick: “Hue 1968” is an unsparing look at the Vietnam War and how it changed America

January 18, 2018 Imagining Colorado: Books, authors with connections to the Centennial State

January 17, 2018 Book review: Burke’s Robicheaux is back, and is as good as ever

January 11, 2018 Book review: “Fire and Fury” is the hottest book of 2018 — too bad it’s so dull

January 3, 2018 Regional books: Margaret Coel; “The Accidents”; “The Last Suppers”

Most of the books he features are well-known, but Cronin gives a nod to “1988,” “an overlooked novel of special interest” by former Colorado Gov. Richard D. Lamm and Arnold Grossman. Cronin describes it as part political thriller and part political anthropology, “a delight for political junkies.”

“Imagining a Great Republic” is a comprehensive and thought-provoking book that underscores the importance of literature in shaping a free society.  Cronin concludes that “the best political writers remind us of the work to be done.”

from News And Updates https://www.denverpost.com/2018/01/25/imagining-a-great-republic-thomas-e-cronin-book-review/

[wikitopx]

14 kilometers from the Tyrrhenian Sea, lies Grosseto, a city in the central Italian region of Tuscany.

With origins tracing back to the High Middle Ages (11th - 13th Centuries, c. 1001 - 1300), a visit to Grosseto is akin to taking a step back in time. Under the reign of the Medici family, the city was transformed into a fortress in the 14th century. Today, much of the architecture still remains and are well maintained. Walk through the streets with me, and discover the historical architecture that withstood the test of time.

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1. Palazzo Aldobrandeschi

Situated in the Piazza Dante, the Palazzo Aldobrandeschi is a palace that housed the Aldobrandeschi family, one of the noble families of southern Tuscany in the High Middle Ages. This neo-gothic building boasts ogival mullioned windows and merlons in the upper parts of the wall.

Despite being more than a thousand years old, the architecture of the Palazzo Aldobrandeschi still continues to amaze locals and tourist alike. To maintain its former glamour, it was rebuilt in the 20th century.

2. Area Archeologica di Roselle

Want to visit a site that has truly withstood the test of time? This is the location you are seeking. Heard of Pompeii? These Etruscan ruins predate Pompeii. This archaeological park is situated just on the outskirts of Grosseto and formerly housed 1,200 individuals within its 100 acre (40.5 hectare) perimeter.

A quick visit to the site and you may walk away with a sense of the livelihood of a former Etruscan-Roman settlement. There are two trails within the archeological site. Trial A leads to the Acropolis area, where a further walk up a hill reveals a former Etruscan “artisanal” area.

Trail B leads to an Etruscan Wall and the Necropolis hill. Staff located on the site do speak English and maps are available, so you can make an informed choice on how to organize your time here.

3. Grosseto Cathedral (Cattedrale di San Lorenzo)

Dedicated to Saint Lawrence, this Roman Catholic cathedral was built between the 12th and 14th century. Initial blueprints of the cathedral suggest a simple medieval building. Various altars and chapels were later added in the 14th to 15th century and the final construction was completed in the 17th century.

With a distinct “zebra” striped appearance, this cathedral definitely sticks out amongst the crowd. If this cathedral is not on your list of must-visits in Grosseto, you are definitely missing out. Boasting intricate stained glass and stone carvings, you might end up spending more time wandering around the cathedral than initially planned.

4. Medicean Walls of Grosseto

The history of Grosseto is connected to these magnificent walls. History has it that Grosseto elevated her status to that of a city when the neighboring city, Roselle, a small Etruscan-Roman settlement on the outskirts of Grosseto, was in decline.

The walls represent how perimeters were drawn between towns and further exemplifies the power of the reigning family. In fact, these walls defined the Grosetto Fortress, a city of great power in the High Middle Ages.

During the Second World War, the last sentry box of the walls was destroyed. Thankfully, other parts of the wall remained intact and underwent restoration efforts.

Walk through the “Old Gate” (formally known as the “Citizen Gate/Porta Cittadina”), which is one of the few remaining gates that dates back to the 13th century. This gate is of particular importance, as from this path all roads led to neighboring towns and trade routes.

Remember to bring along some shade, for you’ll be standing under the sun, marveling at the wondrous architecture that was built by hand, through hard labor, using only simple construction tools that are artifacts now. The address listed points to a suggested starting spot, north of the wall and visitors may proceed either clockwise or counter-clockwise.

5. The Maremma Museum of Archaeology and Art

Be prepared to spend half a day in this museum, which houses artifacts and paintings that informs of the Etruscan’s past. Visitors can expect a well-curated exhibition that spans three floors, which is further divided into a total of 40 rooms.

The first floor can be generally classified into two main sections. The first is devoted to the archaeological collection of Canon Giovanni Chelli – the founder of the museum. Next, find artifacts obtained from the town of Roselle – including stone warrior statues from the necropolis of the Archaic period.

Ascending to the second floor, visitors can browse through curated pieces of archaeological documentation and have a look at a “vase” from Pescia Romana (730 BC). Further artifacts that reflect the Etruscan culture can also be found on the second floor. What about Grosseto? Visitors interested in learning of Grosseto’s past can proceed to the third floor.

Not to worry if you can’t speak Italian. Visitors can book guided tours at the reception area and most of the staff are able to converse in English. For the breadth of content that is covered, the well-curated pieces and great staff, the visit is definitely worth the 6 USD ticket.

Children under the age of 6 are granted free entry. Do also note that the museum is closed on Mondays.

6. Piazza Dante

Located in the heart of Grosseto, you definitely won’t miss the Piazza Dante. In fact, most of the iconic buildings and places to visit are situated around the piazza, which is Italian for “public square”.

Stand in the center of the piazza, near the statue and marvel at what Grosseto has to offer. From fine architecture to delicious, affordable eateries surrounding the piazza, this is a great first stop in Grosseto if you have no idea where to start.

7. Bagno Moderno (Marina di Grosseto)

Done with the sightseeing and wondering where you can go just to sit back and relax? Fret not, for we have just the suggestion for you! This lovely beach bar/restaurant has everything required to wrap up your trip in Grosseto.

Get your own sunbed underneath an umbrella and be served with the food of your choice. Owned by Federico, the owner and beach manager, you can be assured of a pleasant and wonderful experience here, for he always assures that the location is kept clean and tidy.

Have children in tow? This place is not only elderly and handicapped-friendly but also kid-friendly! Build castles in the sand or enjoy handmade pasta with your loved ones. One item on the menu that is not to be missed is their marvelous tiramisu, that will leave you asking for seconds.

Soak in the sun and enjoy the sound of the waves crashing on the shore. If you are tempted, you can always go for a dip. If the sea is too stormy, there’s always the indoor pool.

8. L'Uva e il Malto

Chef Moreno Cardone takes great pride in its cuisine, using quality local products to create delicious, engaging meals. There are many options for fish and meat, but few for vegetarian options. Wife Samantha runs the front of the house and is always happy to guide you through the predominantly local wine list.

9. Al Numero Nove

Ultrafresh ingredients and budget pricing are the highlights at this hybrid restaurant and pub near the duomo. There are fish and vegetarian options aplenty, as well as bruschette to graze on if you don't feel like a full meal. No coperto (cover charge).

10. Caffè Ricasoli

Old vinyl records may hang from the ceiling, but the music at this beatnik cafe is updated. The DJ spends Italian pop music on weekends and it regularly hosts live music.

More ideals for you: Top 10 things to do in Gela

From : https://wikitopx.com/travel/top-10-things-to-do-in-grosseto-708566.html

[thecomicsnexus]

Jungle Habitat, which was in West Milford, in Passaic County, New Jersey, United States, was a Warner Bros.-owned theme park that opened in the summer of 1972, and closed in October 1976. By November 1972, the park had 500,000 paid visitors. The park contained over 1,500 animals; it consisted of a drive-through section and a walk-through section. The drive-through section was an animal safari park and the walk-through area was called Jungle Junction.

The park featured a drive-through safari section, which allowed for wild animals to roam free and approach vehicles as they slowly drove through. Drivers and their passenger(s) could observe peacocks, baboons, camels, elephants, llamas, giraffes, and Siberian tigers in this section, either in their cars or on a Jungle Habitat bus. Many of the animals would climb atop the cars, and/or walk in front of vehicles, bringing them to a halt. Signs were posted along the route to warn visitors to keep their windows closed. Great Adventure in Jackson Township, New Jersey, approximately 100 miles (160 km) to the south, also had (until recently) a similar type of drive-through safari attraction (theirs has now been converted to a ride-through attraction as part of the amusement park, so it is still viewed by vehicle but not by car).

The walk-through section was a small theme park which included a petting zoo, camel and elephant rides, snack bars, gift shop, a reptile house, a dolphin show, and "Bugs Bunny and Friends" shows including live Warner Bros. Looney Tunes characters, including Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, Porky Pig, Yosemite Sam, Tweety Bird, Sylvester the Cat, Wile E. Coyote and the Road Runner. A small tram station here was called Jungle Junction. The park did not have amusement-style rides, although there were plans (which never materialized) to add them in the spring of 1977.

Incidents Shortly after the park opened, a tourist, Abraham Levy, driving through the safari in a taxi was attacked by a lion on October 19, 1972, bringing negative publicity to the park. In 1974, a woman was bitten by a baby elephant who had reached out of its enclosure with its trunk and grabbed the woman; she ultimately was awarded $200,000 for her injuries.

The park was plagued by problems, including reports of dangerous animals escaping into the nearby residential areas. Several of the park's animals had contracted tuberculosis and were euthanized. In addition, the increase in summertime and weekend traffic on West Milford's roads created problems for local residents.

Plans The park was initially profitable. However, business declined gradually as it failed to attract repeat business without changing its attractions or adding new ones. In 1975, Warner Bros. proposed a $20 million expansion project to the site. The project would include a large wooden roller coaster, a steel junior coaster, a carousel, log flume, plus adult spinning rides, and a few "kiddie" rides. The township's residents were divided on whether or not to approve such a project. The potential for further traffic congestion was a major issue.

Closure and current status The park opened as usual during the summer of 1976, with rumors of a big expansion planned for the following summer. The park's last weekend in operation was Halloween weekend. On November 2, township residents narrowly voted against the expansion. Following the vote, Warner Bros. decided to shut the park down and sell the land. After the park closed, newspapers reported that several animal carcasses, including an elephant, had been left there to decay. Competition from Great Adventure, combined with poor management and the park's inability to easily expand, may have contributed to the demise of Jungle Habitat.

For years after it closed, the site's deteriorated buildings remained, and rumors of animals still roaming the property attracted curiosity seekers. Accounts of such explorations were published in Weird NJ magazine, and on its website. None of the animal-based rumors are true; the animals were sold to buyers across the country.

The 800-acre (3.2 km2) Jungle Habitat property, containing 26 miles (42 km) of paved roads, was purchased by the state in 1988 for $1,450,000. The property, adjacent to Norvin Green State Forest and Greenwood Lake Airport, is part of Long Pond Ironworks State Park and is administered by Ringwood State Park. In 2007, under the direction of Ringwood State Park, the Ramapo Valley Cycling Club (a chapter of the Jersey Off Road Bicycle Association JORBA) performed a cleanup of the park, with 70 volunteers contributing. Brush was cleared and trash was removed. More recently, under the management of Ringwood State Park, JORBA built single-track trails designed for bicycle, equestrian, and foot traffic. There were 11 to 12 miles of single-track trails by 2008.

There was negotiation between West Milford and New Jersey to lease the 10-acre (40,000 m2) macadam parking lot for recreational use. In recent years, the property was used to host West Milford's Fourth of July celebrations (known as "Thunder in the Highlands") under a special-use permit. A local bicycle shop sponsors "Rumble in the Jungle", an annual mountain bike race. The area has become popular with dog walkers, mountain bikers, trail runners, equestrians, and American black bears.

[kilipeak]

KILIMANJARO-LEMOSHO ROUTE 9 DAYS TREKKING

KILIMANJARO-LEMOSHO ROUTE 9 DAYS TREKKING KILIMANJARO-LEMOSHO ROUTE 9 DAYS TREKKING with Kilipeak Adventure, begins and ends at Karama Lodge and Spa in Arusha. Arrive anytime at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), there will be a private transfer waiting at the airport to pick you to Karama Lodge and Spa. All airport transfers are part of the package, no extra fee is required. THE BEST MONTHS TO CLIMB KILIMANJARO. Normally March, April, and May are the months with long rains and should be avoided. November is usually short rains but it does not often rain all the days so Climbing is possible. The best Months for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro are January, February, and also August and September. July can be colder and November to December can be wet. January to February is the warmest month, almost clear of clouds each evening and morning. The success rates with our guides are outstanding compared to the overall success rates for all climbers who attempt to reach the top. SUMMIT SUCCESS RATES: STELLA POINT (98%). UHURU PEAK (97%). DAY1: ARRIVE IN TANZANIA: We stay at Karama Lodge and Spa, which is a beautiful Hotel located on the lower slopes of Mount Meru and is a perfect place to prepare you for adventure. We will gather in the evening at 5:30 pm for a pre-climb briefing and an equipment check. We will also confirm you have the appropriate mandatory medical coverage and travel insurance. Dinner and overnight at Karama Lodge and Spa: Bed, dinner, and Breakfast-included. DAY 2: MTI MKUBWA CAMP (FULL BOARD) After breakfast at the hotel in Arusha, we drive approximately 2 hours through the rural countryside to the Londrossi Gate. For the necessary park registration formalities at the Londorossi National Park gate, we drive through varied farmland with open views over the plains to reach the Lemosho road head. We start our ascent along the forest trail we camp at Lemosho Mti Mkubwa Camp. Londrossi Gate to Mti Mkubwa Camp (2,650 m); 3-4 hours walking. DAY 3: SHIRA ONE CAMP (FULL BOARD) We leave the forest behind now, the trail climbs steadily with wide views to reach the rim of the Shira Plateau. A full day trekking with slow and steady pace up to Shira Camp. Mti Mkubwa Camp to Shira One Camp (3,550 m): 6-7 hours walking. DAY 4: SHIRA HUT (FULL BOARD) Today we follow an easy path to the summit of Shira Cathedral before reaching the next camp at Shira Hut. As this camp is quite exposed, it can be substantially colder than the previous night, with temperatures dropping to well below freezing. Shira Camp to Shira Hut (3,840 m): 3-5 hours walking. DAY 5: MOIR HUT (FULL BOARD) In the morning we cross-part of the plateau through lush of heather and moorland then into expensive high Savannah desert before reach moir hut in the alpine zone. For extra acclimatization one can take walk around for the higher lands around the camp; views are superb. Lunch will be served at the Fisher camp. The afternoon will be the acclimatization walk up onto the Lent Hills, the summit of which is at 4,700 meters. Shira Hut to Moir Hut (4,200m): 3-4 hours walking. DAY 6: BARRANCO VALLEY (FULL BOARD) Today we walk on a gentle ascent and panoramic views. We traverse the southwest side of Kilimanjaro, passing underneath the Lava Tower and the final section of the Western Breach and after hot lunch the bottom of the Lava Tower (4,600 m.) we descend to the bottom of the Great Barranco valley (3,900 m.). Moir Hut to Barranco valley (3,900 m.): 5-7 hours walking. DAY 7: KARANGA CAMP (FULL BOARD) A steep climb up the eastern wall leads us just below the Heim Glacier, where we may have some spectacular views of Kilimanjaro. We then take a steep exit up the Great Barranco Wall, which divides us from the southeastern slopes of Kibo, the trail continues down into the alpine desert of the Karanga Valley, finally, we have a steep climb up to Karanga Camp. Barranco Camp to Karanga camp (4,000 m): 4-5 hours walking. DAY 8: BARAFU CAMP (FULL BOARD) Today we take the Traverse Route that takes up the Barafu Ridge, we walk up quite slowly to the final camp before your last ascent day to the summit. The remainder of the day is spent relaxing in preparation for the final ascent before a very early night. Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp (4,600 m): 3-4 hours walking. DAY 9: SUMMIT TO MWEKA CAMP (FULL BOARD) Wake up before midnight in the cover of darkness. We begin a steep climb over loose volcanic scree has some well-graded zig-zags and a slow but steady pace will take us to the rim of the main crater, Stella Point, at 5,735m. We will rest there for a few minutes to enjoy the sunrise over Mawenzi. Those who are still feeling good can continue slowly to make the two hour round trip from here along the crater rim to main peak (5,895 m), which is the highest point in Africa. After a few minutes to appreciate your accomplishment we descend to Barafu is amazingly fast, and we stop at Barafu Camp for some refreshment, we continue to descend to reach Mweka Camp. Barafu Camp to Summit to Mweka Camp (3100 m): 13-15 hours walking. DAY 10: MWEKA GATE TO ARUSHA (FULL BOARD) A gentle walk takes us down through the rainforest to Mweka gate successful climbers will receive their summit certificates. After lunch, we drive back to Arusha Safari Lodge. Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate: 3-5 hours walking. Dinner and overnight at Karama Lodge and Spa: Bed, dinner, and Breakfast-included. DAY 11: DEPARTING DAY: After saying bye to our team of guides then you need a private departure transfer which is included from Arusha to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for your flight unless you have an option to have a short safari or any other option we will discuss. E-mail us at any time to discuss your trip and get an accurate quotation. TREKKING KILIMANJARO FOR CHARITY CHALLENGE? The above climb can be undertaken for your own personal charity or group charity. KILIMANJARO-LEMOSHO ROUTE 9 DAYS TREKKING INCLUDES: • Tanzania VAT on tourism activities and park fees • Return transfers Kilimanjaro airport to Arusha and Arusha to Kilimanjaro airport • Hotel Lodging the night before and the night after the climb, with dinner and breakfast included (double occupancy) •Portable toilet • Transfer from your hotel to starting point for your climb, and return to your hotel after your climb • Large portions of fresh, healthy, nutritious food • All Kilimanjaro National Park gate fees, camping fees, and climbing permits. • Kilimanjaro National Park rescue fees (Kilimanjaro Rescue Team) • Emergency oxygen (for use in emergencies only – not as summiting aid) • Basic first aid kit (for use in emergencies only) • Qualified mountain guide, assistant guides, porters and cook • Salaries for the mountain crew as per guidelines set by Kilimanjaro National Park • Breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as hot drinks on the mountain • Camping equipment (tents, camp chairs, tables & sleeping mattress • Water for washing up daily • Porter to carry your duffel bag (max weight 15kg / 32 lbs) from one camp to the next camp. • Kilimanjaro National Park certificate for your successful summit attempt • A comprehensive Climbing Kilimanjaro travel info pack • Flying Doctor Service KILIMANJARO-LEMOSHO ROUTE 9 DAYS TREKKING EXCLUDES: • Flights and airport taxes • Items of a personal nature • Compulsory tips for guides, porters and cook (average tip is anything from the US $ 230 to the US $ 300 per hiker – depending on the number of days / how many hikers in the group and route chosen) • South African passport holders do NOT require a visa for Tanzania, however, most other nationalities require a visa for Tanzania • Health requirements (Yellow Fever compulsory if traveling to Tanzania recommended) • Highly recommended travel and medical insurance. • Personal hiking/trekking gear – we can rent some of the gear from our equipment store in Tanzania • Snacks, personal medicine, and water purifying tablets • Meals & drinks not specified and snacks. Safety Success is what we want during our trip. We are prepared for any urgent situation and also have in place a complete evacuation procedure in case of altitude sickness. We carry first aid supplies, supplement summit oxygen and Pulse Oximeters). Travel insurance all customers traveling with Kilipeak Adventure are required to have fully comprehensive travel insurance. The policy needs to be valid from the date that the initial order is placed so as to provide cover for a cancellation prior to departure. During travel, the insurance needs to provide comprehensive medical, evacuation and repatriation cover. Read the full article