Gadling

Cycling the Silk Road

Kraig Becker — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

Filed under: Biking, Arts and Culture, History, Asia, Europe, China, Iran, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkey, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Camping, Ecotourism

Cycling tours have become increasingly popular in recent years, especially amongst adventure travelers who are looking to explore the world from the seat of their bikes. One of the leaders in organizing these kinds of adventure cycling trips has always been Tour d'Afrique Ltd, the creative minds behind such epic rides as their namesake Tour d'Afrique and the Vuelta Sudamericana. The company has even launched a website called DreamTours that allows us to design and plan our own cycling adventures, leaving all the logistics to their travel experts.

As if that wasn't enough to keep us happily peddling our way around the globe, the Tour d'Afrique team is busily preparing for another long distance ride for 2010 that will cover the entire Silk Road, starting in Istanbul, Turkey and ending in Xi'an, China. The ride will cover more than 6650 miles over 16 weeks time, crossing through Iran, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan, as riders follow one of the most famous and important trade routes of all time, a route that was also explored by such historical figures as Alexander the Great, Marco Polo, and Genghis Khan.

Some of the highlights of the journey will include passing through an amazing variety of landscapes, from including snow capped mountains and desolate open plains. Travelers will get the opportunity to camp below sea level in the arid deserts of the Xinjiang Province in western China, while also ascending to dizzying heights as they climb along the Pamir Highway in Tajikistan, which rises well above 15,000 feet, offering a challenge for both the heart and the legs. The ancient cities of Samarqand, Bukhara, and Merv will be stops along the way as well, offering refuge from the road and a chance to explore marketplaces that have been bustling with shoppers for centuries.

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Cycling the Silk Road originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 30 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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25 great adventures for 2010

Kraig Becker — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 09:00:00 EST

Filed under: Biking, Climbing, Arts and Culture, Hiking, Paddling, Scuba Diving, Africa, Asia, Europe, North America, Oceania, South America, Botswana, Kenya, Madagascar, Tanzania, Bhutan, Laos, Nepal, Philippines, Sri Lanka, France, Iceland, Ireland, Slovakia, Canada, Costa Rica, United States, New Zealand, Tonga, Bolivia, Chile, Peru, Camping, Ecotourism

The latest issue of N ational Geographic Adventure has just hit the newsstand with a special treat inside for adventure travelers looking for their next big trip. The magazine has listed its selection for the 25 best new trips for 2010, offering up suggestions of places to visit in nearly every corner of the globe.

The list is organized in alphabetical order by destination, starting with Bhutan and running through several U.S. locations as well. Each of the locations also has a tour operator associated with it, and clicking on the text will give you a more detailed description of what you can expect on your adventure.

No matter what draws you to adventure travel, you're sure to find something on the list that appeals to you. For instance, if you're up for a challenging kayaking adventure, head to Bhutan with Bio Bio Expeditions, where you get the opportunity to make the first descent on a previously unpaddled section of the Drangme Chhu River. Does an island adventure sound more enticing? Then plan a trip to Sri Lanka with Access Trips, where you can go surfing and mountain biking through that amazing setting. And for those who would prefer a little more rest and relaxation with their adventure, there is always the Muang La Resort in Laos which offers jungle escapes that includes luxury rooms and a deluxe spa. That trip is available through Asia Transpacific Journeys.

No one knows adventure like National Geographic, and you can bet that each of these trips will deliver in that category. With 2009 quickly coming to an end, it is never too early to start planning your own adventures for 2010, and this list is a great place to start.

25 great adventures for 2010 originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 21 Oct 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Gadlinks for Friday 10.9.09

Brenda Yun — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 17:00:00 EST

Filed under: Biking, Hiking, North America, South America, United States, Bolivia, Video, Camping

What a week! I don't know about you guys, but I barely survived that one. This weekend will be a relaxing one for sure: cuddle up with some good travel reads and relax.

Here are some awesome tips on how to do Hawaii like a local. I have to say, these suggestions are spot on. Nice job, Sarah! [via Intelligent Travel]
Umm... I don't know about you guys, but I'm not so keen on KLM's new blue uniforms. [via Jaunted]
Hit up these lakes if you're looking for something new yet relaxing. [via Matador Trips]
I had the misfortune of riding in a van at night down "The World's Most Dangerous Road" in Bolivia, and this biking video shows just how treacherous that journey was. [via World Hum]
Don't be a sissy. Take it from a car-less camping pro that leaving the vehicle behind makes the journey far more green. [via BootsNAll]

'Til Monday, have a great weekend!

More Gadlinks HERE.

Gadlinks for Friday 10.9.09 originally appeared on Gadling on Thu, 08 Oct 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Leaf peeping in the northern hemisphere

Brenda Yun — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 16:30:00 EST

Filed under: Biking, Hiking, Europe, North America, Belgium, France, Slovenia, Switzerland, Canada, United States, Ecotourism

Let's face it: autumn is here. But why not embrace the fall by heading to the hills and enjoying the turning of the leaves from green to fiery red?

It's no secret that New England is one of the world's top fall foliage destinations, but I bet you didn't know that there are several other places in the northern Hemisphere where you can see the trees in their autumn glory. An additional bonus? Fewer people travel in the fall, and prices tend to be cheaper too!

Here are a few of the world's best places to check out fall foliage:

In the USA:
Arizona Highlands -- Arizona might have deserts and canyons, but the higher elevations around Flagstaff and its White Mountains have really photo-worthy foliage.

The Great Lakes Region -- The Lakes region is famous for its huge expanse of fresh water, but the trees in fall paired with the blue of the water makes fall a great time to travel north.

Maine -- This whole state is ablaze with fall colors come October. Just ride the I-95 north and breathe in the New England air. It's no wonder the state slogan is, "Maine: The Way Life Should Be."

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Leaf peeping in the northern hemisphere originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 06 Oct 2009 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Vintage trains across the U.S. pair autumn days with history

Jamie Rhein — Sat, 03 Oct 2009 10:30:00 EST

Filed under: Biking, History, Learning, Festivals and Events, Transportation

A few hours trip on a vintage train in the fall is a chance to experience American history surrounded by color brilliance. As trains pass along the edges of small towns and waterways, under canopies of leafy branches and across mountainsides, passengers are treated to stories of commerce, adventure and natural history.

With the push west, railroads connected one part of the U.S. with another as people chased after a better life. As the railroad network spread, bustling cities and towns developed in their wake.

Then Americans fell in love with car travel. Once the Interstate highway system developed and the trucking industry expanded, train use dwindled and many tracks were abandoned.

Fortunately, historic passenger trains have remained a passion and portions of historic routes have become hot spots for tourists.

Here are 10 vintage train trips in 10 different states to put on your list of things to do at least once in your life. Each train promises fall foliage and a chance to experience a unique aspect of history. Climb on, sit back and enjoy trees ablaze in their finest. The variety of the train offerings are as varied as the foliage they pass.

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Vintage trains across the U.S. pair autumn days with history originally appeared on Gadling on Sat, 03 Oct 2009 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Furnace 508 endurance cycling race starts tomorrow

Kraig Becker — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 17:00:00 EST

Filed under: Activism, Biking, North America, United States, Ecotourism

Tomorrow morning one of the most challenging cycling events anywhere on the planet will get underway from Santa Clarita, California. Two hundred riders will set out to compete in the Furnace 508, a race that is billed as "the toughest 48 hours in sports", and is known for pushing its competitors to the limits of their physical and mental endurance.

The 508 mile course runs from Santa Clarita to Twentynine Palms, crossing through the Mojave Desert and Death Valley in the process. The riders will be tested by ten mountain passes, offering up more than 35,000 feet of elevation gain over the length of the course. And when they're not dealing with the cool mountain temperatures, they'll be getting baked by the desert heat.

Competitors can ride the race in three categories, solo, and two- or four-person relays. Solo riders obviously ride the entire 508 miles by themselves, while the relay teams break down the course into two and four segments of equal length, with each rider taking a segment. Last year, the first solo rider to cross the finish line was Michael Emde, who completed the course in just 27 hours and 28 minutes.

The organizers of the race are also committed to being eco-friendly, and have advised the athletes on how to be on a "green team". The list of suggestions for the racers to limit their impact on the environment includes using hybrid team cars, eating fruits and vegetables that are purchased locally, and using five gallon jugs of water to refill their bottles. The hope is to have a challenging and amazing race while leaving no trace of their passing.

For more on the race, check out the official website, where you'll find info on the course, the official rules, and more, including the always amusing tall tales from previous races.

Furnace 508 endurance cycling race starts tomorrow originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 02 Oct 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Head to Rio de Janeiro for the 2016 Olympics!

Brenda Yun — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 15:30:00 EST

Filed under: Biking, Climbing, Arts and Culture, Hiking, History, Learning, Surfing, Festivals and Events, South America, Brazil, News

It's official: Rio de Janeiro will host the 2016 Olympics! This will be the first Olympics held in South America, so it's about time!

Check out the gorgeous and sporty city of Rio de Janeiro in its official candidate commercial.

A few sport and travel-related facts about Rio and Brazil:

Beach culture: Locals and visitors alike enjoy the sun and the sand. Chill out on Copacabana Beach, or check out the waves at Ipanema, Leblon, Sao Conrado and Barra da Tijuca.
Leading an active lifestyle: Although Rio is first and foremost a beach culture, plenty runners and bikers exercise on the city's pathways. Hikers and climbers also take pride in the Tijuca National Forest, located on the outskirts of the city.
It's football, not soccer: Football reigns supreme all over Brazil, where its stars go by one name only (like "Pele" or "Ronaldo"), and the stadiums -- particularly the famous Maracana Stadium -- are packed with painted faces and screaming fans.
Famous landmarks: Rio lies in southeastern Brazil between the sea and the mountains, giving it a riverside city appearance. You certainly have seen photos of the the large Christ the Redeemer that sits atop Corcovado Mountain. The statue, built to commemorate Brazil's first 100 years of independence from Portugal, gazes over the city toward Sugar Loaf Mountain, another city favorite that rises from Guanabara Bay.
Nightlife: ...and talk about a city that never sleeps! Rio has plenty of great bars and clubs, most of which are located beachside at Copacabana and Ipanema.

Although Rio's Olympics won't be held for another 6.5 years, the wild celebration that ensued today after the host city was announced tells us just how ready Rio is to throw a party like the the Games have never seen. I don't know about you guys, but I can't wait 'til the summer of 2016!

Head to Rio de Janeiro for the 2016 Olympics! originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 02 Oct 2009 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Paraplegic Athlete Climbing Kilimanjaro

Kraig Becker — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 08:00:00 EST

Filed under: Activism, Biking, Climbing, Africa, Tanzania, Ecotourism

Paraplegic athlete Chris Waddell is in the process of doing something spectacular. He is attempting to become the first person to summit Mt. Kilimanjaro without the use of his legs, and as of this writing he is camped at 18,000 feet, and preparing for the final push up to the summit.

Back in 1988, Waddell suffered a terrible skiing accident that left him paralyzed from the waist down. But he was determined to get back on the slopes, and less than a year later he did, using a monoski to return to his passion. Two years later he was named to the U.S. Disabled Ski team, and he has since gone on to win 12 medals over four Paralympic games, making him the most decorated male skier in the event's history.

Not content to just ski down the mountains however, Chris wants to climb them as well. To do so, he has devised a specially designed hand cart lovingly called the Bomba, which can maneuver over large obstacles while Waddell uses his arms to "pedal" it up hill. The Bomba is a unique, one of a kind, vehicle built to put Chris on top of Kilimanjaro, which at 19,340 feet, is the tallest mountain in Africa.

Continue reading Paraplegic Athlete Climbing Kilimanjaro

Paraplegic Athlete Climbing Kilimanjaro originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 29 Sep 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Cyclist circles the globe in 174 days

Kraig Becker — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 08:00:00 EST

Filed under: Activism, Biking, Asia, Europe, North America, Oceania, India, Iran, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Turkey, Belgium, Bulgaria, France, Germany, Netherlands, Romania, Canada, United States, Australia, New Zealand, Middle East

Last weekend, British cyclist James Bowthorpe rolled into London's Hyde Park, finishing an epic ride around the globe, and setting a new world's record in the process. Bowthorpe became the fastest person to circumnavigate the planet by bike, finishing the 18,000 mile ride in 174 days, beating the old record by 20 days.

Bowthorpe's journey took him across France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Poland, the Ukraine, Romania, Bulgaria, Turkey, Iran, India, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Australia, New Zealand, Canada and the United States, before returning him home. In order to finish in this record time, he averaged more than 100 miles per day, and near the end of his journey, he was riding as much as 150 miles in a single go.

The 32-year old cyclist, who rode to raise funds for Parkinson's research, faced plenty of challenges along the way. The weather was a constant adversary with high winds and rains tormenting him at times, while heat and humidity took their toll at others. Road conditions were tricky in some of the more remote areas as well, and while he was riding through India, Bowthrope took ill and spent three days in bed trying to recover.

The new record bests the one set by Mark Beaumont last year when he circled the globe in 194 days. Beumont is currently on another long distance cycling expedition, riding from Anchorage, Alaska to Ushuaia, Argentina, the southernmost city in South America.

Although the ride may be over for Bowthorpe, his goal to raise money to find a cure for Parkinson's Disease continues. He had hoped to raise £1.8 million on his journey, and he is still focused on reaching that goal. To find out more about James and his long distance ride, and how you can contribute to his cause, go to GlobeCycle.org.

Cyclist circles the globe in 174 days originally appeared on Gadling on Thu, 24 Sep 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Montreal Musts, to go: Get around by bike

Tom Johansmeyer — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 14:00:00 EST

Filed under: Biking, North America, Canada

Montreal has to be one of the most bike-friendly cities on the planet - certainly, at least, in North America. There are bike lanes throughout the city, and those using them don't seem to have the fear found in other major metropolitan areas. Bike lanes are wide and bidirectional, so you don't need to worry about clipping another rider.

If you want to become part of the cycling scene in Montreal, your first stop should be (obviously) to one of the many stores that rents bikes, unless you've brought your own. Prices vary with bike and location, but you shouldn't have a problem finding the right saddle to carry you around. Also, be sure to rent a helmet. Though I saw quite a few cyclists riding around the city without them, it isn't a good idea.

For those in need of a quick fix, take a look at the BIXI bikes located all over Montreal. They operate a bit like Zipcars in the United States. Pay with a credit card, and the bike is unlocked from the stand. Ride where you want to ride, and return the bike at the nearest BIXI stand. Your credit card will be charged based on how long you used the bike. This option has become incredibly popular, and it's not unusual to see an empty BIXI stand (though this will probably become less likely when winter hits).

A nice touch, the BIXIs are environmentally friendly, powered by solar energy.

Gallery: Montreal by bike

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Montreal Musts, to go: Get around by bike originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 22 Sep 2009 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Intrepid Travel wants to know who your ultimate travel buddy is

Kraig Becker — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 08:00:00 EST

Filed under: Biking, Arts and Culture, Hiking, History, Paddling, Festivals and Events, Africa, Asia, Europe, North America, Oceania, South America, Ecotourism, Travel Deals, Central America, Caribbean

Twenty years ago two good friends, Darrell Wade and Geoff Manchester, launched a new adventure travel company with the idea of sending small groups on intimate tours to some of the most unique places on the planet. Their plan was to get travelers to experience their destinations on a grassroots level, interacting with locals and getting off the beaten path when ever possible. They called their new company Intrepid Travel and today they offer more than 500 trips to 100 destinations around the globe.

To celebrate their 20th anniversary, the company has launched their Ultimate Travel Buddy contest, in which they are giving away twenty travel packs, each of which will send you and your ultimate travel buddy off on a trip of your choice. To enter the contest, you simply have to go to this website and fill out an online virtual postcard that allows you to select where you want to go and what you want to do while you're there. You'll also select which of your buddies you'll be taking along with you, and then in 25 words or less, explain why you should win.

You options for your adventure are nearly endless. You can go cycling in Tuscany, hiking the Inca Trail in Peru, or ride camels through the Sahara Desert in Egypt. These are just a few of the dozens of trips to choose from. So, head on over to Intrepid's website and fill out your postcard now. And remember, I make an excellent travel buddy!

Intrepid Travel wants to know who your ultimate travel buddy is originally appeared on Gadling on Mon, 21 Sep 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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100 urban adventures for the city dweller

Kraig Becker — Sun, 20 Sep 2009 09:00:00 EST

Filed under: Biking, Climbing, Arts and Culture, Hiking, History, Scuba Diving, Surfing, Festivals and Events, Food and Drink, North America, United States, Camping

Looking for something to do today as the weekend quickly comes to a close? Then look no further than Outside Magazine's list of 100 Urban Adventures. As you can no doubt tell, it contains some of the best activities to do in the great outdoors while remaining well within some of the largest cities in the U.S.

Outside turns its attention on such urban centers as New York, Boston, and Chicago, amongst others. Some of their suggestions for outdoor fun might come as a surprise, even to those that live there. For instance, plenty of people have probably considered paddling around Liberty Island to get a spectacular view of the Statue of Liberty from inside a Kayak, but did you also know that you could go bouldering in Central Park?

There are equally interesting adventures from the other cities as well. Go sailing on Lake Michigan while in Chicago, horseback riding through the Hollywood Hills in L.A., or trout fishing a short distance from downtown Seattle. These are just a sample of some of the adventures on the list and chances are you'll find something on it that will appeal to what ever level of activity you're up for.

But what if you don't live in any of these cities? My guess that no matter where you live, you'll find similar hidden outdoor adventures right under your nose. Take a look around, and you're likely to find all kinds of interesting things to do. But hurry, the weekend is slipping away fast.

100 urban adventures for the city dweller originally appeared on Gadling on Sun, 20 Sep 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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North Face Triology Expedition Underway on Cho Oyu

Kraig Becker — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 08:00:00 EST

Filed under: Biking, Climbing, Arts and Culture, Hiking, Asia, China, Nepal, Ecotourism

In the High Himalaya the Monsoon has moved on at last and the fall climbing season is well underway, with mountaineering teams already taking up position on the world's highest peaks as they prepare to make their climbs before the frigid winter sets in.

One such expedition, sponsored by gear company The North Face, has set its goals very high. While most are content with reaching the summit on any one of the very tall mountains in the region, which includes Everest, topping out at 29,029 feet. But for the Cho Oyu Trilogy Expedition the summit is just the start of the adventure.

Cho Oyu is the sixth tallest mountain in the world and falls on the border of Nepal and Tibet. It stands 26,906 feet in height, and sits just ten miles to the west of Everest. It is often regarded as the easiest of the fourteen 8000 meter peaks to climb, which may be why the Trilogy team has decided that after they reach the summit, they needed to add a little more excitement to their expedition.

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North Face Triology Expedition Underway on Cho Oyu originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 18 Sep 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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NY Times Discovers Peru's Ollantaytambo

Kraig Becker — Sun, 13 Sep 2009 08:00:00 EST

Filed under: Biking, Arts and Culture, Hiking, History, Learning, South America, Peru

We told you about Ollantaytambo two months ago, and now the New York Times has picked up on the emerging adventure destination as well. This hidden gem in the Andes offers plenty of activities for travelers to Peru's Sacred Valley, without the crowds found elsewhere.

The ancient mountain village has long been a stop over for those making the trip to Machu Picchu, the quintessential Peruvian monument. Most viisitors spend just a few hours there to take in the sights, but as the Times rightly points out, there is plenty to keep them occupied, including an Inca fortress that rivals Machu Picchu itself. There are plenty of other well preserved ruins throughout the area too, some of which can only be visited by taking a thrilling mountain bike ride through the Andes.

Ollantaytambo is still building amenities for travelers however, so don't expect the same variety to the night life as you would in Cusco for instance. But, the article does recommend you drop by the Tapas Bar Cactus while you're in town and grab a bite to eat at the Hearts Cafe, which donates its profits to children projects in the city. If you decide to stay for awhile, then the Hotel Pakaritampu gets the nod for its rustic charm and comfortable setting.

Traveling to Peru already offers plenty to see and do, but if you're looking for something a bit different, add Ollantaytambo to your itinerary. You'll get plenty of scenic beauty and adventure, with smaller crowds at most of the other sites.

NY Times Discovers Peru's Ollantaytambo originally appeared on Gadling on Sun, 13 Sep 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Adventure Destination: South Dakota

Kraig Becker — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 08:00:00 EST

Filed under: Biking, Climbing, Hiking, History, Paddling, North America, United States, Camping, Ecotourism

When adventure travelers think about exotic locations to visit they seldom mention South Dakota. There are plenty of mountain states in the western U.S. that get more attention, thanks in no small part to the higher elevations in the Rockies. But South Dakota can hold its own in terms of rugged backcountry and beat most other locations with the diversity of its terrain.

Make no mistake, the eastern part of South Dakota has little to offer adventure travelers. It is mostly flat, and uninteresting, plains. But travel west, and you'll come across amazing scenery ranging from the lush and green Black Hills National Forest to the arid and desolate landscapes of the Badlands. In between, you'll find the iconic Mt. Rushmore and the Crazy Horse Monument, which remains under construction 61 years after work first commenced.

The Black Hills and Badlands offer plenty of activities to keep even the busiest of outdoor enthusiasts occupied. The area recently played host to Primal Quest, a ten-day, 600 mile adventure race, that saw teams trekking, peddling, and paddling their way across the South Dakota backcountry. That means that there is top notch mountain biking, kayaking, and hiking to be had throughout the region, with miles of trails stretching in all directions. Rock climbers will find impressive big walls, while spelunkers and campers will find that their needs are well met too.

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Adventure Destination: South Dakota originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 28 Aug 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Drag out summer after Labor Day: 12 ideas

Jamie Rhein — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 10:30:00 EST

Filed under: Biking, Climbing, Arts and Culture, Hiking, History, Paddling, Festivals and Events, Food and Drink, Budget Travel

So what if it's almost the end of August, kids are heading back to school in droves, and Labor Day is almost here?

There are ways to drag out that summer feeling with easy-going, inexpensive travel. Pick places that you haven't been to before to heighten a sense of adventure -- something that summers are made for.

Here are 12 ideas to get you started into dragging out summer--at least until the leaves start to change color.

(This gorgeous shot of summer was taken in Ireland.)

Continue reading Drag out summer after Labor Day: 12 ideas

Drag out summer after Labor Day: 12 ideas originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 25 Aug 2009 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The scenic Monterey coastline

Brenda Yun — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 16:00:00 EST

Filed under: Biking, Surfing, North America, United States, Ecotourism

If you haven't heard of the 17 Mile Drive, now you have, and now's the time to enjoy one of the world's most beautiful coastlines. Minutes from downtown Monterey, California, the 17 Mile Drive winds through the prestigious gated community of Pebble Beach in Carmel, past the Del Monte Forest, and along gorgeous stretches of secluded coves, pristine beaches, and oceanfront mansions.

There are hundreds of attractions along this scenic coastal road that makes traffic sometimes unbearable during the summer. You can avoid crowds by entering at the Spanish Bay gate, or it may be worthwhile to enjoy this route by bike or during the off-season, though it may be colder, foggier, and less sunny.

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The scenic Monterey coastline originally appeared on Gadling on Mon, 17 Aug 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Primal Quest adventure race comes to South Dakota

Kraig Becker — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 08:00:00 EST

Filed under: Biking, Climbing, Hiking, Paddling, North America, United States, Ecotourism

This week, Primal Quest Badlands gets underway in South Dakota, where coed teams of four will embark on a ten-day long, non-stop adventure race across 600-miles of challenging backcountry. They will run, trek, mountain bike, and paddle their way across the course, with a little spelunking and climbing thrown into the mix for good measure.

Billed as "the World's Most Challenging Human Endurance Competition", the race will also require the competitors to navigate their way, using just a compass and map, through a series of checkpoints that are strategically placed across the course. Teams with excellent navigation skills will save time, and energy, while inexperienced navigators can easily get lost, costing the team precious time.

Unlike many other long distance races, Primal Quest runs non-stop once the starting gun sounds. That means that the teams will be racing for up to ten days, with little sleep or down time. Sleep strategy actually plays an important role, as the athletes will need to decide how long they can go without rest, and how long they can afford to sleep. While the race is underway, most teams will get just two hours of sleep each night, while burning as much as 8000-10,000 calories per day.

Primal Quest Badlands begins on Friday morning, and until that time, the details of the course will remain tightly under wraps. We do know that it will run through the Black Hills, the Buffalo Gap Grasslands, and of course the Badlands themselves. The stunning landscapes will make for an amazing backdrop to the human drama that will play out over the 600-miles of pain and suffering that await the endurance athletes who will challenge themselves in this event.

Primal Quest adventure race comes to South Dakota originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 12 Aug 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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National Parks host final free weekend of the summer

Kraig Becker — Tue, 11 Aug 2009 08:00:00 EST

Filed under: Biking, Climbing, Hiking, History, Paddling, Skiing, North America, United States, Camping

As we've mentioned a couple of times this summer, the National Park Service has designated several weekends as "fee free", meaning we can get into any and all national parks and monuments without paying the usual entry fees. This weekend, August 15-16, is the final free weekend of the summer, and your last chance to take advantage of the government's generosity.

There are a number of amazing parks spread throughout the U.S. and I've recommended five of them here and five more here. When writing those lists, I was looking at parks that were a bit off the beaten path, and less crowded in the summer months, when travelers flock to the top parks, resulting in traffic jams and less than ideal conditions. But as the dog days of summer begin to fade, it may be time to visit one of the more iconic parks. Here are five of the best.

Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho
Perhaps the most famous and popular of all the national parks, Yellowstone is home to Old Faithful, the geyser that erupts at regular intervals of roughly 90 minutes or so. Yellowstone offers travelers plenty to do year round, with hiking, fishing, camping, and much more. There is spectacular wildlife to be seen as well, including elk, moose, bear, and wolves. But be warned, this popular park can get crowded quickly, and it can definitely impact your experience there.

The Great Smokey Mountain National Park, Tennessee and North Carolina
The most visited of all the national parks, Great Smokey Mountain offers up access to the mountain range that is gives it its name, thanks to more than 800 miles of hiking trails and remote backcountry campsites.There are an estimated 1500 bears living within the park, along with plenty of deer and elk as well, and the plant life is equally diverse, with more than 1660 different kinds of wildflowers alone. The park is celebrating its 75 anniversary this year, with plenty of activities and attractions for everyone that visits.

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National Parks host final free weekend of the summer originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 11 Aug 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Budget vacations from Seattle: Bainbridge Island

Brenda Yun — Sun, 09 Aug 2009 11:00:00 EST

Filed under: Biking, Arts and Culture, History, Learning, Food and Drink, North America, United States, Hotels and Accommodations, Budget Travel

I arrived in Seattle on my birthday last week, which just happened to be the city's hottest day in history. Temperatures across Puget Sound reached 106 degrees! Needless to say, I needed a break from the heat -- and a break from long hours of driving up the northern California and Oregon coast. A mini-vacation on Bainbridge Island was an ideal break from both the heat, the car, and the city.

With a resident population of ~~less than 2,000~~ around 24,000, Bainbridge Island is a unique weekend getaway that is just a 35-minute ferry ride from downtown Seattle. Ferries leave for the island from Seattle every hour from Pier 52, and downtown Bainbridge is a short 5-minute walk from the terminal. You can walk ($6.80 per person RT), bring your bike, or drive your car ($10 RT) onto the ferry.

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