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846 posts[19년 10월 나홀로 미국-칸쿤여행기]휴스턴 조지부시 콘티넨탈 공항,KML라운지[5]
13시간의 꿈같은 퍼스트클래스 여행이 끝나고 휴스턴 조지부시 콘티넨탈 공항도착. 공항에서 6시간 기다리다 또 비행기 타고 달라스로 갑니다...아이고 늘그니 죽네... 그리고 언제나 두근거리는 미쿡 입국심사 어렵기로 유명한 미쿡 입국심사지만 사실 그렇게 어렵지 않습니다.아래 질문에 대한 대답만 잘하면 됩니다. 문장으로 말할 필요도 없습니다. Q : 뭐 하러 왔니? A: 관광(다른거 이야기하면 이 순간부터 꼬임, 가족이나 친구 보러왔다 이런 이야기는 안하는걸 추천) 얼마나 있을 거니? A: 00일 Q:어디어디 가니? A:휴스턴, 달라스 (솔직하게 말하쟈) 이것만 잘 대답하면 대부분 그냥 통과시켜 줍니다. 여기서 꼬이면 질문이 길어지고 복잡해집니다.(ㅜ
레이크타호, 래슨볼캐닉NP, 그레이트베이슨NP, 내로우(Narrows) 하이킹 9박10일 자동차 캠핑여행
연초에 영화 이 아카데미 작품상을 깜짝 수상할 때까지만 해도, 올해 여름휴가 계획은 2017년 스페인여행에 이은 두번째 유럽여행, 또는 작년 페루여행에 이어 연달아 남미여행을 가는 것 중에서 선택을 앞두고 있었다. 그런데, 코로나 팬데믹으로 이렇게 될 줄을, 그 영화의 대사처럼 "정말 누가 계획이나 했을까?" 해외여행은 불가능해졌고 이 상황에 집 떠나 오래 돌아다니는 것도 쉬운 일은 아니지만, 그래도 여름휴가를 집에서만 보낼 수는 없는 일! 최대한 인적이 드문 목적지들로 골라서 '언택트(untact)' 자동차 캠핑여행을 떠나기로 했다. 토요일에 LA의 집을 출발해서 위의 지도에 그려진 경로를 9박10일 일정으로 시계방향으로 돌게된다. 첫날 맘모스레이크 8,900피트(2,713m) 높이의 콜드워터 캠핑장에서 1박한 후 다음날은 사우스레이크타호 호텔에서 1박, 그리고 래슨볼캐닉 국립공원의 캠핑장에서 2박, 다시 이동하면서 호텔에서 2박 후에 그레이트베이슨 국립공원의 캠핑장 1박, 마지막으로 자이언 국립공원 입구 스프링데일의 호텔에서 2박하는 일정으로 캠핑은 총 4박뿐이다. 그래도 2009년의 29박30일 자동차여행에서 17박 캠핑을 한 이후로 가장 캠핑일수가 많은 가족여행 계획이다. 첫날 395번 도로를 따라 올라가면서 휴식 겸 들리는 곳들을 제외하면, 첫번째 중요 목적지는 맘모스레이크 옆에 있는 데블스포스트파일(Devils Postpile) 준국립공원이다. 8년전 395번 국도 로드트립에서 방문하려 했었지만 오픈을 안해서 못 가보고, 그 후 2016년 존뮤어트레일을 하면서 위기주부만 방문했던 곳인데, 이번에 가족과 함께 다시 구경하려고 한다. 문제는 코로나 때문에 셔틀 운행을 하지 않기 때문에, 공원내 주차장이 꽉 차면 입장불가! 따라서, 첫날 오후에 입장을 못하면 둘쨋날 새벽같이 일어나서 들어가야만 하는 유동적인 상황이다. 모노레이크(Mono Lake)는 재미있는 곳이기는 하지만 가족이 함께 2번이나 이미 방문했기에 그냥 건너뛰고, 그 북쪽에 있는 보디 주립역사공원(Bodie State Historic Park)부터 새로운 탐험이 시작된다. 역시 코로나 때문에 비지터센터와 건물 내부를 구경할 수는 없지만, 캘리포니아 최대의 잘 보존된 '유령도시' 고스트타운을 꼭 방문해보고 싶었다. 북쪽으로 계속 올라가면서 잠시 쉬어갈 예정인 해발 약 2,300m에 위치한 에코레이크(Echo Lake)의 멋진 모습으로, 지난 번의 블로그 포스팅 '미서부 42개의 하이킹 코스' 마지막에 소개되었던 Lake Aloha Trail의 출발점이기도 하다. 물론 길이 12.5마일의 그 루프트레일을 하는 것은 아니고, 시간이 되면 호숫가만 잠시 산책한 후에 사우스레이크타호(South Lake Tahoe) 호텔로 가서 숙박할 예정이다. 아주 큰 호수인 레이크타호(Lake Tahoe)를 모두 둘러보는 것은 불가능하므로, 가장 대표적인 에머랄드베이 주립공원(Emerald Bay State Park)을 중심으로만 반나절 구경할 계획이다. 주차장이 제한적으로만 운영이 된다고 하므로, 역시 아침 일찍 호텔 체크아웃을 하고 주립공원으로 이동을 해야한다. 시간이 된다면 호숫가 북쪽으로 붙어있는 D.L. Bliss 주립공원도 둘러보고 싶은데 가능할 지 모르겠다. 호수를 벗어나 인터스테이트 80번 고속도로와 만나는 곳에 있는 도너 주립기념공원(Donner Memorial State Park)은 캘리포니아 개척의 역사를 보여주는 곳이라서, 잠시라도 들러서 구경을 하고 점심도 여기서 해서 먹을 예정이다. 어차피 에머랄드베이에서 구입할 캘리포니아 주립공원 주차권은 모든 다른 주립공원에서도 그 날 하루동안은 쓸 수 있기 때문이다. 그리고는 늦어도 오후 2시에는 출발을 해야 산길을 4시간 정도 달려서 래슨볼캐닉 국립공원 안에 예약해둔 캠핑장에 어두워지기 전에 도착할 수 있을 것이다. (만약 주립공원들에서 보낸 시간이 적다면 가는 길에 Sardine Lake를 구경하기 위해 Gold Lake Hwy로 우회할 수도 있음) 여행 4일째인 화요일, 캘리포니아에 있는 9개의 내셔널파크(National Park) 중에서 위기주부가 못 가본 유일한 곳인 래슨볼캐닉(Lassen Volcanic) 국립공원을 마침내 정복하게 된다. 서밋레이크(Summit Lake) 캠핑장에서 2박을 하기 때문에 가운데 날에 여유있게 공원을 둘러볼 예정인데, 제일 인기인 범파스헬 트레일(Bumpass Hell Trail)은 좁은 보드워크를 걷는 것이라 소셜디스턴싱을 위해서, 재작년 옐로스톤 국립공원에서 그랬던 것처럼 새벽같이 일어나 아침밥 먹기 전에 둘러볼까 생각중이다. 그리고 오후에 해발 10,457피트(3,187m)의 래슨피크(Lassen Peak) 정상등반까지는... 좀 어렵겠지? 수요일에 래슨볼캐닉 국립공원을 나가면서 만자니타레이크(Manzanita Lake) 주변을 둘러보고, 3시간여를 달려 "The Biggest Little City in the World"라는 슬로건으로 유명한 네바다주의 리노(Reno)에 도착해서 숙박한다. 여기서 카지노를 하기 위해서 마스크는 당연하고 안면 투명가리개와 비닐장갑을 챙겨가야하나 고민중이다...^^ 다음날은 네바다주 북부를 동쪽으로 횡단하게 되는데, 느지막히 리노를 출발해 Fernley에서 50번 도로를 타고 약 460km의 사막 황무지를 달려서 일리(Ely)에 도착해서 호텔에 숙박한다. 이 50번 하이웨이는 '미국에서 가장 외로운 도로(The Loneliest Road in America)'라는 별칭으로 알려져서, 최근 미국에서도 소셜디스턴싱 여행에 최적인 도로로 새삼 여러 매체의 주목을 받고 있다는데, 그래서 오히려 차와 사람들이 많지는 않겠지? 금요일에는 네바다주의 유일한 내셔널파크인 그레이트베이슨(Great Basin) 국립공원으로 들어가 선착순 캠핑장에 자리를 잡아야 한다. (만약에 캠핑장 자리가 없으면 구경만 하고 나와서 인근 마을에 숙박) 인기있는 레만 동굴(Lehman Caves) 투어는 중단되어서 할 수가 없고, 바로 Wheeler Peak Scenic Dr를 따라 해발 3천미터까지 올라가서 Alpine Lakes Loop Trail을 하고, 체력이 된다면 3~4천년을 자란 나무인 브리슬콘파인(Bristlecone Pine)도 구경을 할 수 있으면 좋겠다. 마지막 캠핑을 마친 토요일에는 유타주로 들어가서 약 3시간 거리인 시더브레이크(Cedar Breaks) 준국립공원에 도착해 점심을 해먹고 구경할 예정이다. 브라이스캐년 국립공원의 닮은꼴인 이 곳은 두세번 근처를 지나간 적은 있지만, 브라이스캐년을 가면서 굳이 비슷한 곳을 들릴 필요가 없어서 구경을 안 했던 곳이다. 여기를 구경한 후에 자이언 국립공원의 북서쪽에 자리한 콜롭캐년(Kolob Canyon)을 처음으로 둘러보고 (코로나로 폐쇄되었던 구역인데 어떻게 우리 여행일정에 딱 맞춰서 지난 주부터 다시 오픈을 했음^^), 공원입구 마을인 스프링데일(Springdale) 호텔에서 마지막 2박을 한다. 우리가족 3명이 모두 해보고 싶어한 트레일인 내로우(The Narrows)의 사진은 무엇을 보여드릴까 고민하다가... 그냥 국립공원 홈페이지의 소개영상을 다운받아 링크했으니 캡션을 켜고 보시면 된다. 현재 자이언 국립공원의 셔틀은 예약제로 운영이 되고 있어서 아침 7시에 계곡으로 들어가는 셔틀을 예약을 해놓았다. 물론 우리는 퍼밋이 필요없는 'Bottom Up' 하이킹을 할 예정인데, 점심 도시락 챙겨서 최대한 깊이 올라갔다 내려올 생각이다. 내로우 하이킹을 마치면 일찍 호텔로 돌아와 쉬고, 다음날 라스베가스를 찍고 집으로 돌아오면 9박10일 '언택트' 자동차 캠핑여행이 모두 끝나게 된다. 아래 배너를 클릭해서 위기주부의 유튜브 구독하기를 눌러주시면 정말 감사하겠습니다.^^
놀라운 풍경과 지형으로 미서부에서 절대 놓칠 수 없는 42개의 하이킹 코스
미서부 여행잡지인 선셋(Sunset)에서 <42 Can’t-Miss Hikes in the West for Amazing Scenery and Terrain>라는 제목의 기사를 보고, 그 중에 위기주부는 몇 개의 하이킹 코스를 가보았는지 확인해보는 김에 블로그에도 소개해드린다. 각 트레일 설명까지 번역하기에는 일이 너무 많아서 원문을 그대로 보여드리는데, 각 트레일명이 빨간색으로 링크된 것은 클릭하면 위기주부가 그 곳을 다녀온 네이버 블로그의 포스팅을 보실 수 있으며, 그 다음 지역이나 공원명에 링크가 되어 있으면 트레일은 하지 않았지만 그 '근처'에는 가봤다는 뜻임을 미리 알려드린다.1 of 42 Dave LauridsenLa Quinta Cove, La Quinta, CADifficulty: EasyDistance: 3.6 miles (round-trip)Elevation Gain: 360 feetCoachella Valley is home to the Santa Rosa Mountains, where granite, desert flora, and sweeping views surround primo hiking. And La Quinta, 25 miles southeast of Palm Springs, is a great entryway for hikers: Take the Cove to Lake Trail, a 2.5-mile one-way trek. Or, for serious burn, consider the strenuous 7.5-mile Boo Hoff Trail. Afterward, crash at one of these super-stylish hotels.2 of 42 Thomas J. StoryDelicate Arch Trail, Arches National Park, UTDifficulty: EasyDistance: 3.1 miles (round-trip)Elevation Gain: 613 feetThe geologic fantasyland of Arches has some of the best hikes in the country, webs of trails with mind-blowing views. But don’t miss the easy 3-mile round-tripper to the park’s most iconic landmark, Delicate Arch. From the trailhead at Wolfe’s Ranch, follow the route past Ute petroglyphs onto waves of swelling sandstone where the freestanding arch rears up to defy gravity. Time your trek during the magical twilight hour—you won’t be alone, but you will see a spectacle some 70,000 years in the making ignited in the crimson colors of the sunset.3 of 42 James Randklev/GettyHall of Mosses Trail, Hoh Rain Forest, Olympic National Park, WADifficulty: EasyDistance: 1 mile (round-trip)Elevation Gain: 78 feetSee a rich spectrum of greens: the deep emerald of licorice fern, the wan olive of hanging club moss, and the turqoise of Sitka spruce needles. One of the best ways to see this verdant brilliance is the Hall of Mosses Trail by the Hoh Rain Forest Visitor Center. The rainforest is one of the most jaw-dropping beautiful things you have to see in the park. Bring shoes that can get muddy and don't be discouraged if it's raining—the forest is magical under any conditions.4 of 42 David FentonGrizzly Falls, Kings Canyon National Park, CADifficulty: EasyDistance: 0.1 miles (round-trip)Elevation Gain: 19 feetSome of the best hikes are waterfall hikes. Head off Kings Canyon Scenic Byway and hike the short, easy trail up to the impressive Grizzly Falls. The 75-foot waterfall is at its best in spring, when the thunderous force is so strong you can feel the reverberations in your chest. Best part is: you barely have to do anything to get to this amazing view. It's one of the best hikes to do when you're camping at the park with kids.5 of 42 Getty Images / Ezra ShawTennessee Valley Trail, Marin Headlands, Sausalito, CADifficulty: EasyDistance: 3.4 miles (round-trip)Elevation gain: 170 feetJust across the Golden Gate Bridge from San Francisco, the Marin Headlands offer shoreline views, crashing surf, and a surprising wildness. Join the parade of cars winding up twisty Conzelman Road to Hawk Hill, but don’t stop there. The Tennessee Valley Trail winds 2.2 miles (one way) past rolling hills toward a secluded beach awash with green and black basalt pebbles.6 of 42 Matthew Micah Wright/GettyRed Rock Trail, Whiting Ranch Wilderness Park, Foothill Ranch, CADifficulty: EasyDistance: 4.2 miles (round-trip)Elevation Gain: 470 feetThe 2,500 acres of oak woodland canyons and grassland hills in Whiting Ranch Wilderness Park are filled with flowers like phacelia, lupines, mariposa lily, canyon pea, and wild rose blooming from about March through May. Bonus: stunning rock formations along Red Rock Trail (4.5-mile round-trip). Bring the family, and expect to see tons of wildlife, like squirrels, reptiles, and sometimes deer.7 of 42 Getty Images / Natta-AngOverlook Trail, Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, Big Sur, CADifficulty: EasyDistance: 1.1 miles (round-trip)Elevation Gain: 170 feetSome of Big Sur's most beautiful landmarks and best hikes are located in the 3,583-acre Julia Pfeiffer park. The overlook of McWay Falls is one of the prettiest spots on the California coast. It's a minimal effort for major payoff. The falls plunge straight down 80 feet onto an inaccessible beach. A short trail starts from the park’s main parking area. For a bigger challenge, Head inland via the Tan Bark Trail into the redwoods, turn around when you’ve had enough, and come down to the shoreline.8 of 42 Creative Commons photo by Don & Susan Weller is licensed under CC BY 2.0Bluff Trails at Fiscalini Ranch Preserve, Cambria, CADifficulty: EasyDistance: 2.4 miles (loop)Elevation Gain: 259 feetEnjoy a leisurely sunset hike at Fiscalini Ranch Preserve, where trails explore the natural essence of Cambria: wave-splashed coves, flower-dappled grasslands, and forests where fog drifts amid the pines. Parallel trails run about 40 feet above the ocean at about 1-mile each with wheelchair-accessible boardwalks most of the way.9 of 42 Thomas J. StoryLand's End Coastal Trail, San Francisco, CADifficulty: EasyDistance: 3.4 miles (loop)Elevation Gain: 534 feetPoke along the winding, moderate, 3.4-mile trail, one of the best hikes in San Francisco with unbeatable views of the Pacific, Marin Headlands, and Golden Gate Bridge. The route, in Lands End park, is pretty much flat, which makes it perfect for a trail run or bike ride—and it's free to park at the lot near Lands End Lookout on Point Lobos Avenue. If you want to get down to the water, take Mile Rock Beach Trail at the junction 0.7 miles into your trek.10 of 42 Stephen Saks/GettyJack London Mountain and Quarry Trail, Jack London State Historic Park, Glen Ellen, CADifficulty: EasyDistance: 2.9 miles (loop)Elevation Gain: 521 feetA shrine for lovers of both open space and the famous author, Jack London State Historic Park is one of the West's great literary sites. It includes 26 miles of hiking trails as well as the cottage where London did much of his writing. Jack London Mountain and Quarry Trail makes up the 2.9-mile loop with highlights of the park, including London's experimental Beauty Ranch farm, a redwood forest, vineyards, and access points to several other trails on the property.11 of 42 Brandon SullivanDry Creek Trail #52, Sedona, AZDifficulty: EasyDistance: 5 milesElevation Gain: 616 feetSedona is a town full of first-class hikes, and locals love this one. The 5-mile trek winds through Coconino National Forest, with stop-and-stare views of terraced sandstone formations, and plenty of quiet moments to sneak up on grazing deer. Just plan to go early in the morning before the ATVs are likely to be out there too.12 of 42 Aramark Parks and Destinations; visitsolduc.com; Image by Deb Casso/Getty ImagesSol Duc Falls, Olympic National Park, WADifficulty: EasyDistance: 1.6 miles (round-trip)Elevation Gain: 255 feetOne of the best hikes in Olympic leads you to what many consider to be the most beautiful waterfall in the West. See the wild beauty of Sol Duc on the 0.8-mile hike to Sol Duc Falls. You'll cross a canyon by bridge for an up-close view of three sheets of white water crashing down into a crevasse of black rock.13 of 42 Andrea M. GómezMirror Lake, Yosemite National Park, CADifficulty: EasyDistance: 2 miles (round-trip)Elevation Gain: 100 feetA two-mile trail leads to this Yosemite lake and surrounding meadow, particularly pretty in early morning. Even if you opt to take the full hike around the lake—adding up to about 5 miles—it'll still be a pretty easy hike with a flat route and plenty of places to stop and admire the lake and surrounding forested mountains.14 of 42 Andrea Gómez RomeroWest Fork Trail, Mission Creek Preserve, Desert Hot Springs, CADifficulty: EasyDistance: 8 miles (round-trip)Elevation Gain: 1,020 feetThe Wildlands Conservancy’s Mission Creek Preserve houses one of the prettiest and best hikes, following the year-round stream that’s the source of the area’s renowned drinking water. Bonus? It’s also one of the least traveled. The green desert valley jumps with quail and rabbits, as the 4-mile (one-way) West Fork Trail ascends gently toward Mt. San Gorgonio and the Pacific Crest Trail.15 of 42 Andrea M. GómezChino Canyon at Mt. San Jacinto State Park, Palm Springs, CADifficulty: EasyDistance: 1.5 miles (loop)Elevation Gain: 311 feetOn an L.A. to Palm Springs road trip, take yourself to Mt. San Jacinto State Park. Then, if you can tear yourself from your poolside perch, hop on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway and head to the top of Chino Canyon. A 10-minute ride up the mountainside on the rotating tram (gotta love the 360° views) swoops you up to a dizzying 8,516 feet, where it’s typically 30 degrees cooler than the valley floor, and there are 54 miles of forested trails with some of the best hikes to explore. Take a free guided nature walk, or strike out on your own on the 1.5-mile Desert View Trail loop with sweeping valley vistas.16 of 42 Thomas J. StoryWhite Domes Trail, Valley of Fire State Park, Overton, NVDifficulty: EasyDistance: 1.1 miles (loop)Elevation Gain: 173 feetLocated 55 miles northeast of Las Vegas is one of Nevada’s oldest state parks (and some of its best hikes), a sci-fi–like land of red sandstone and gray limestone formations that sees more lizards than visitors. Hike the White Domes Trail for a jaunt through canyons of contrasting color. (Pro tip: take lots of water on this fiery hike).17 of 42 Jen JudgeWilliams Lake, Taos, NMDifficulty: IntermediateDistance: 4.3 miles (round-trip)Elevation Gain: 1,049 feetGet an alpine start to your day on the gradual hike to Williams Lake, at 11,300 feet in the high country above Taos Ski Valley, one of the best ski towns in the West. The trail parallels the Rio Hondo upstream to the lake. From there you can look up at New Mexico’s highest point, Wheeler Peak; if you’re feeling ambitious, follow the faint goat path that scrambles up the scree field on the north side of the tarn to the summit above, with views 60 miles north to Colorado.18 of 42 Rachel WeillEast Ridge and Pool Ridge Loop Trail, Armstrong Redwoods State National Reserve, Guerneville, CADifficulty: IntermediateDistance: 7.5 miles (round-trip)Elevation Gain: 1,587 feetHear that? Absolute silence. At the Armstrong Redwoods State National Reserve, an 805-acre grove of old-growth sequoias just north of town, it’s everywhere. Savor the solitude as you crane your neck trying to find the tops of trees 300 feet tall—and 1,400 years old. East Ridge and Pool Ridge Loop Trail shows you some of the best hits of the preserve, including those epically tall trees, a waterfall, and creeks.19 of 42 Creative Commons photo by John B. Kalla is licensed under CC BY 2.0Crater Lake Trail, Maroon Bells–Snowmass Wilderness, Aspen, CODifficulty: IntermediateDistance: 3.8 miles (round-trip)Elevation Gain: 692 feetPopular for a reason: Maroon Bells, Colorado’s most photographed landscape, and one of the state's best hikes, is even better in living color when the distinctive symmetry of snow-dusted Maroon and North Maroon Peaks are framed by a ribbon of aspens, all reflected on shimmering Maroon Lake. The best hiking trail there is Creater Lake. Of course you won’t be alone, but still, it’s worth the crowds. If it's fall, consider an alternative route that will get you all the views with a slightly less cramped route.20 of 42 Andrea Gómez RomeroHidden Valley Loop, South Mountain Park, Phoenix, AZDifficulty: IntermediateDistance: 3.4 miles (loop)Elevation Gain: 918 feetSouth Mountain Park has 51+ miles of dog-friendly, hiking and biking trails that snake through desert slopes and arroyos. One of the best hikes? Hidden Valley Loop passing through Fat Man’s Pass, an easy-to-moderate trail that loops between two tight-hugging boulders. To pass, stand sideways and suck in your gut (yes, there’s a detour option).21 of 42 Creative Commons photo by Daniel Pouliot is licensed under CC BY 2.0Sam Merrill Trail, Altadena, CADifficulty: IntermediateDistance: 5.4 miles (round-trip)Elevation Gain: 1,4,17 feetThis Angeles National Forest moderately strenuous 5-mile round-trip trail, parallels the route of the old Mount Lowe Railroad, offering great views of the San Gabriel Mountains and the Los Angeles Basin. It's a great location for trail running training, but it gets super crowded on weekends. Try to do the hike during the week. If time allows, extend your trek by taking the trail toward the ruins of the engineering wonder that was the railway.22 of 42 Gina SabatellaGateway Loop Trail, McDowell Sonoran Preserve, Scottsdale, AZDifficulty: IntermediateDistance: 4.2 milesElevation Gain: 715 feetHike into the desert in Scottsdale’s 16,000-acre backyard with some of the best hikes in the Southwest. You can access this wide-open desert park and its 60 miles of looping multiuse trails from a number of trailheads—we like the 4-mile loop trail from the Gateway Access Area. The trail is clearly marked, has wildflowers, and allows dogs on a leash.23 of 42 Erin KunkelLanikai Pillbox Trail, Oahu, HIDifficulty: IntermediateDistance: 1.8 miles (round-trip)Elevation Gain: 649 feetThe short (two-mile round-trip) but steep Lanikai Pillbox Trail takes you up to World War II-era bunkers and an Imax-worthy view of windward Oahu. You can do the whole thing in about two hours, but the rocky and sometimes slippery terrain can be tough for those who don't hike often, and without any handrails, it can be dangerous for kids. However, for pseudo-seasoned hikers, it doesn't get much better. Find the trail at 265 Kaelepulu Drive; though you'll have to park down the road.24 of 42 Thomas J. StoryMist Trail, Yosemite National Park, CADifficulty: IntermediateDistance: 6.4 miles (round-trip)Elevation Gain: 2,191 feetIt's a .8-mile hike to a footbridge with a fine view of this lovely waterfall. But to get to the top of the fall, continue of the Mist Trail up a 600-step granite staircase. At the top, you get a marvelous shot of the 317-foot falls. From there, it's another 1.5 miles if you want to reach the top of Nevada Fall, a 594-footer. Turn around or connect to the John Muir Trail to loop back to the valley with different scenery.25 of 42 Andrea M. GómezMt. Constitution Loop Trail, Moran State Park, Orcas Island, WADifficulty: IntermediateDistance: 6.6 miles (loop)Elevation Gain: 1,738 feetThe jewel of Washington's state park system, with 5,252 acres of forests, lakes, and waterfalls in Orcas, one of the great islands of the West. The view from Mt. Constitution is world-class and well worth the trek upward. Experienced Moran hikers recommend taking the route clockwise, so you can take stairs to the top, which makes it easier.26 of 42 Wildnerdpix/Getty ImagesSouth Kaibab Trail, Grand Canyon National Park, AZDifficulty: IntermediateDistance: 3.1 miles (round-trip)Elevation Gain: 1,177 feetThe park's easiest day hike is the 3.1–mile roundtrip to views at appropriately named Ooh-Aah Point 600 feet below the rim. The route is steep with little shade, so go early. Be prepared to be engulfed by the scale of the canyon as you descend. Once at Cedar Ridge, you'll find flat ground, red rocks, and some trees under which to relax before heading back.27 of 42 Creative Commons photo by faungg is licensed under CC BY 2.0Golden Throne Trail, Capitol Reef National Park, UTDifficulty: IntermediateDistance: 3.5 miles (round-trip)Elevation Gain: 777 feetCapitol Reef is Utah’s second-largest national park, with slot canyons, arches, cliffs, and some of the best hikes on 31 miles of well-marked trails—yet only one-fifth the number of Zion’s visitors. It’s a steep 2 miles up the Golden Throne Trail, but the views will do their mightiest to distract you. For an even more magical adventure, visit in the winter when the hiking is out of this world.28 of 42 Andrea Gómez RomeroPassage 17 (Alamo Canyon) of the Arizona Trail, Superior, AZDifficulty: IntermediateDistance: 11.7 miles (point-to-point)Elevation Gain: 842 feetAn epic backpacking trip is one way to see the Arizona Trail. But a chill hiking weekend in the throwback town of Superior will do just fine, where you'll find frontier ruggedness mixed with a Mayberry-in-the-desert vibe. The Arizona Trail, the Southwest's answer to the Appalachian Trail, stretches from the state’s Mexican border to Utah. While it would take months to hike its entire length, less ambitious hikers rejoice: The trail is conveniently broken into 43 sections. Head south from Superior on the Alamo Canyon (Passage 17) section, and rest peacefully in town where comfy lodgings and good dining await.29 of 42 Creative Commons photo by Al_HikesAZ is licensed under CC BY 2.0Soldier Pass Trail, Sedona, AZDifficulty: IntermediateDistance: 4.1 miles (round-trip)Elevation Gain: 620 feetThe 4.1-mile round-trip Soldier Pass Trail—which leads past the terraced Seven Sacred Pools—is one of the best hikes in Sedona, an area with many lauded routes. The gorgeous views start right out of the parking lot, which has only 14 spaces keeping the trail generally uncrowded. Pups are allowed too, so long as they are leashed.30 of 42 David FentonPicaho Peak Trail, Dale Ball Trails, Santa Fe, NMDifficulty: IntermediateDistance: 3.3 miles (round-trip)Elevation Gain: 1,227 feetLocated in the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, in Santa Fe, the Dale Ball Trails consist of more than 30 miles of single-track hiking and biking paths that connect to other Santa Fe trails. Tackle the steep but popular 4-mile hike to the summit of Picacho Peak for views of downtown and the desert. It's a nice one to get acclimated when you first arrive with its shady start and epic mountaintop vistas.31 of 42 LagunaticPhoto/ GettyBack Bay Loop Trail, Newport Beach, CADifficulty: IntermediateDistance: 10.1 miles (round-trip)Elevation Gain: 393 feetThe 10.1-mile loop circles Upper Newport Bay. There are multiple entry points, but we recommend starting at the Vista Point Lookout for the best views. Walk along the bluffs; when you reach Big Canyon, detour off the main path and cross the footbridge. You’ll hit a shaded nature trail alongside a stream that’s known as a hot spot for bird-watching. Bring your binocs. Though the length itself adds a challenge, the trail is flat and plenty shaded, so if you take your time, it's a pretty smooth ride. While you're in the area don't miss the secret beach of Robert E. Badham Marine Conservation Area.32 of 42 Kennan Harvey/Getty ImagesThree Sisters Wilderness, Devils Lake, ORDifficulty: DifficultDistance: 17 miles (thru-hike)Elevation Gain: 4,385 feetIt would take you five months to walk the 2,650-mile Pacific Crest Trail from Mexico to Canada. But for a long weekend that’s high on thrills per mile, try the 17-mile stretch through Oregon’s Three Sisters Wilderness. Hiking from Frog Camp/Obsidian Trailhead on State 242 to the South Sister Trailhead at Devils Lake offers a sampler of the fir forests, waterfalls, jagged peaks, and serene alpine lakes for which the PCT is famous, plus the wondrous Obsidian Limited Entry Area, covered with the sharp-edged black rock. It just may inspire you to hike the other 2,633 miles. Just make sure you have good hiking boots.33 of 42 Thomas J. StoryTurtlehead Peak Trail, Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, Las Vegas, NVDifficulty: DifficultDistance: 4.7 miles (round-trip)Elevation Gain: 1,991 feetTake a break from the neon and drive just 17 miles west of the Strip on W. Charleston Blvd. (State 159) to explore petrified sand dunes, view petroglyphs, and look for red-tailed hawks. To some, desert landscapes seem barren, but this place proves otherwise. Turtlehead Peak Trail leads you to the top of its namesake mountain where you'll get sweeping views of the park and Vegas. Expect to do some scrambling toward the top.34 of 42 Courtesy of Xanterra Parks & ResortsThe Narrows (Top-Down), Zion National Park, UTDifficulty: DifficultDistance: 15.5 miles (point-to-point)Elevation Gain: 1,017 feetZion Narrows is one of the national park’s most spectacular hikes. The full trip is one of the great adventures anywhere―you take a shuttle to Chamberlain Ranch and follow the Virgin River into sinuously carved slot canyons. But it’s an undertaking, requiring park service permits, proper gear (including water-proof boots and walking sticks), and attention to weather conditions, notably summer thunderstorms and flash floods. More casual hikers can get a taste of the narrows by continuing upstream past the end of the Riverside Walk toward Big Spring; the park service offers frequent guided hikes here as well.35 of 42 Creative Commons photo by Fortune Brainstorm TECH is licensed under CC BY 2.0Cathedral Lake Trail, Aspen, CODifficulty: DifficultDistance: 7 miles (round-trip)Elevation Gain: 2,073 feetA challenging 7-miler lined with wild sage, blue columbines, and firs in the White River National Forest. There’s a 2,000-foot elevation gain up to 11,866 feet, but the alpine views are a sweet reward on one of the best hikes around Aspen. Go in the summer, when you'll see a sea of wildflowers along the way. Then again, fall will greet you with a golden grove of aspens.36 of 42 Getty Images / Putt SakdhnagooAngels Landing Trail, Zion National Park, UTDifficulty: DifficultDistance: 4.1 miles (round-trip)Elevation Gain: 1,617 feetThis is one of those best hiking trails you’ll brag about back home, assuming you’re up for doing it. You hike 2.5 miles up Zion cliffs so steep you have to negotiate them with the help of chains bolted into the rock; the final portion of the Angel Landing trail rides a narrow rock fin with dizzily sharp drop-offs on either side. The reward: phenomenal views and aforementioned bragging rights.37 of 42 Kenny Karst/DNC Parks; Resort at YosemiteHalf Dome Trail, Yosemite National Park, CADifficulty: DifficultDistance: 14.8 milesElevation gain: 5,164 feetThis Yosemite hike on a lot of people's life list of adventures. Allow at least 10 hours for the demanding hike/climb up 8,800-foot Half Dome. And know that the last 900 feet of trail is a steep climb up the dome, with you clinging to cables for the final 400-foot ascent.38 of 42 Andrea M GómezSliding Sands Trail, Haleakala National Park, Maui, HIDifficulty: DifficultDistance: 11 miles (round-trip)Elevation Gain: 2,795 feetRanger-led morning hikes often travel through volcanic landscapes up to the summit of the 10,000-foot volcano in Haleakala National Park, one of the best hikes in Hawaii. On a self-guided tour through the Hosmer Grove forest, you could spot an ‘i‘wi, a rare Hawaiian bird. Or spend a whole day hiking the Sliding Sands Trail through the eerily lovely crater itself, immersed in a wilderness of volcanic cinder, strange plants, and tumbling clouds.39 of 42 Creative Commons photo by Michael Pujals is licensed under CC BY 2.0Mt. Tamalpais, Mill Valley, CADifficulty: DifficultDistance: 9.7 miles (point-to-point)Elevation Gain: 2,545 feetTamalpais is Northern California's best-loved mountain. More than 1.5 million visitors a year hike, bike, ride horses, and stand awestruck in its redwood canyons. But, remarkably, the Marin County hillside still retains a good deal of mystery. There are wild canyons, hidden routes, and discoveries in its roughly 25,000 acres, from the ridgetop to the grassy slopes and beachside coves. Here is one trek to try: Dipsea Trail, the mountain's most famous route with redwoods, fairytale forests, sweeping views of the sea, and lots of climbing. Most people start at Mill Valley, and then take the shuttle back from Stinson Beach. Be sure to head out early enough to avoid the mid-afternoon fog.40 of 42 Courtesy Glacier Park, Inc.Grinnell Glacier Trail, Glacier National Park, MTDifficulty: DifficultDistance: 11.3 miles (round-trip)Elevation Gain: 2,162 feetBoard the boats across Swiftcurrent and Josephine lakes and hike 8 miles into the spectacular high-altitude alpine country to Grinnell Glacier, the park’s most accessible glacier. Check ahead; portions of the trail may be closed even in June due to snow. Otherwise, expect amazing viewpoints, along with wildlife sightings like goats and eagles.41 of 42 Andrea GómezWhite Pine Lake Trail, Cottonwood Canyons, Snowbird, UTDifficulty: DifficultDistance: 10.5 miles (round-trip)Elevation Gain: 2,762 feetSummer typically means overcrowded campgrounds and overpriced hotels, but not in Utah’s Big and Little Cottonwood Canyons, where four off-season ski areas offer jagged granite scenery and knee-deep wildflowers and hikes that deliver a lot of wow for very little work. White Pine Lake Trail in Little Cottonwood Canyon is a good one for intermediate hikers who want to try going the distance, but aren't ready for technical trails. The 10.8-mile route gets you to gorgeous alpine lakes in the Wasatch Mountains.42 of 42 Daniel MacDonald/Getty ImagesLake Aloha Trail, Desolation Wilderness, South Lake Tahoe, CADifficulty: DifficultDistance: 12.5 miles (loop)Elevation Gain: 1,873 feetAlmost 64,000 acres filled with 100-plus alpine lakes, lots of trout, granite peaks, and miles of trails for day hiking and backpacking. Lake Aloha is the one of the best hikes for daytripper, mostly flat with two steep segments and a whopping five alpine lakes to see along the way. Feel free to take a dip when you get to Lake Aloha—there isn't a better way to cool off in summer than jumping in a Western lake. And, if you're planning to spend the night in the area, check into one of these stunning Lake Tahoe hotels.정리해보면 위기주부는 약 절반인 20여곳 이상을 방문해서 정확히 10개의 트레일 코스는 정복한 것으로 확인되었다. 그 중에서 최고의 하이킹을 꼽으라면 2번 델리키트아치(Delicate Arch Trail), 36번 앤젤스랜딩(Angels Landing), 그리고 37번 하프돔(Half Dome) 트레일이다.위의 트레일들 중에서 LA에서 2~3시간 거리에 있는 트레일들과 샌프란시스코쪽 북부 캘리포니아에 있는 트레일들은 잘 기억해뒀다가 기회가 되면 해 볼 생각이고, 또 세도나(Sedona)도 꼭 다시 한 번 가서 위에 소개된 두 트레일을 해봐야겠다는 결심을 하게 된다.마지막으로 위에서 못 가본 코스 중에서 가장 해보고 싶은 하이킹을 꼽으라면 역시 34번 더내로우(The Narrows) 트레일로, 한동안 중단된 오지탐험 계획을 다시 세워서 꼭 도전을 해보고 싶어서 이 소개 포스팅의 대표사진으로 낙점을 했다.^^
제임스딘 추모비(James Dean Monument), 모로베이(Morro Bay) 주립공원, 그리고 솔뱅(Solvang)
이번 겨울 요세미티 여행을 마치고 집으로 돌아가는 경로는 좀 특이했다. 국립공원 남쪽 입구에서 출발하는 41번 국도로만 태평양 바닷가가 나올 때까지 주구장창 달렸던 것이다.프레스노에서 집으로 빨리 가는 99번 고속도로도, 또 1시간 정도 더 달려서 5번 고속도로도 그냥 지나치고, 그렇게 3시간 가까이 달려서 46번 국도와 잠시 합쳐지는 삼거리를 지나서 나오는 Jack Ranch Cafe라는 곳에 차를 세웠다. 저 카페를 들리기 위해서가 아니라...주차장 한 가운데 외롭게 심어져 있는 저 나무를 보기 위해서였다. (구글맵으로 지도를 보시려면 여기를 클릭)나무를 감싸고 있는 조각에는 "JAMES DEAN, 1931Feb8-1955Sep30pm5:59 ∞"라고 씌여있는데, 조금 전에 위기주부가 지나왔던 삼거리에서 23살의 나이에 교통사고로 죽은 '불멸의 청춘스타'를 기리는 제임스딘 추모비(James Dean Monument)이다.자신의 경주용 포르쉐를 몰고 46번 도로를 서쪽으로 달리던 제임스딘이, 맞은편에서 41번 도로로 좌회전을 하려던 자동차와 정면충돌을 했던 그 삼거리에는 James Dean Memorial Junction이라는 표지판이 세워져 있다. (사진의 출처와 상세한 내용은 여기를 클릭)다시 46번과 갈라진 41번 도로를 남서쪽으로 계속 달려서, 집으로 가는 101번 고속도로까지 지나치면 바닷가 마을의 모로베이 주립공원(Morro Bay State Park)이 나온다. 여전히 우뚝 서있는 발전소의 저 3개 기둥도 반가웠던 이 곳은 8년만에 다시 와 본 것인데, 여기를 클릭하면 8년전 이 곳을 방문한 여행기를 보실 수 있다.잔잔한 내항에 관광객들을 태운 보트가 지나가고, 그 앞으로 어떤 분이 열심히 사진을 찍고 있는 물 위에 떠 있는 것은...아기를 배에 올리고 있는 귀여운 해달(sea otter)이었다! (2년전에 산타크루즈에서 본 더 많은 해달의 모습을 보시려면 클릭)작은 어촌에 어울리는 것 같은 이 조각의 이름은 '어부의 가족(Fisherman's Family)'이었다.안내판 뒤로 희미하게 보이는 것이 항공사진으로 보여주고 있는 거대한 모로락(Morro Rock)이다. 일곱자매(Seven Sisters)가 어디서 부터 얼마나 걸려서 이리로 이사를 왔는지 궁금하신 분은 클릭해서 원본보기를 하시면 안내판의 설명을 보실 수 있다.모로락 북쪽 해안가에는 1월인데도 바닷가 모래사장에 놀러나온 사람들과 서핑을 하는 사람들이 있었는데,이 분들은 긴 치마가 다 젖는 것도 아랑곳하지 않고, 이렇게 단체로 파도가 치는 곳까지 들어가셨다. 아마도 바다가 없는 유타주 같은 곳에서 오신 분들이 아닐까?점심은 8년전과 마찬가지로 여기서 제일 유명한 맛집인 지오반니(Giovanni's)에서 피쉬앤칩스(Fish and chips)를 사서,밥공기를 엎어놓은 것 같은 모로락을 바라보며 먹었다. 그리고는 1번 국도와 101번 고속도로를 따라 남쪽으로 달려서 디저트를 사먹기 위해 마지막 한 곳을 더 들렀다.바로 한국분들에게도 제법 많이 알려진 LA에서 2시간 거리의 관광지인 '덴마크 마을' 솔뱅(Solvang)이었다.우리의 디저트는 바로 이 마을에서 가장 인기있는 먹거리인 애블스키버(Aebleskiver)라는 것으로이렇게 생겼다. "3개니까 사이좋게 하나씩~" (8년전에도 똑같이 여기 들러서 이걸 사먹었던 여행기를 보시려면 클릭)여전히 두 마리의 커다란 말이 끄는 마차가 자동차 도로를 지나다니고,가족들이 단체로 타는 사륜자전차들이 시내를 돌아다니는 모습은 여전히 이 곳이 인기있는 관광지임을 보여주고 있었다.저 풍차 때문에 가끔 '네덜란드 마을'로 헷갈리기도 하는 솔뱅을 떠나서, LA의 집으로 2박3일 여행을 마치고 돌아갔다.
