advertisement▼
advertisement▲

Alaska in the Ice and Snow

Anchorage is the largest city in Alaska and the northernmost major city and port in the United States. More than 95% of goods enter Alaska from here, and Anchorage is also a hub for the Alaska Railroad. Anchorage is a charming and vibrant city with rich natural landscapes and historical and cultural relics, as well as unique transportation and culinary experiences. Whether you are a tourist who enjoys outdoor exploration or cultural exploration, you can find your own fun here.

Chena Hot Springs

Chena Hot Springs is naturally formed and open to the public year-round. Hot spring water is rich in various minerals, which can effectively relieve muscle pain, arthritis and other problems under the action of steam, and also soothe breathing. In winter, the temperature of hot springs is relatively high, providing an excellent place for people to relax and unwind in cold weather. You can enjoy a unique ice and snow hot spring experience in the outdoor hot springs. Soaking in hot spring water above 30 degrees Celsius at temperatures of several tens of degrees below zero, this dual experience of ice and fire is unforgettable. At the same time, Chena Snow Hot Spring Resort is also one of the excellent places to enjoy the aurora. Tourists can enjoy the beautiful Northern Lights and feel the magical charm of nature on the mountains or by the hot springs within the resort.

 Ice Cave

From a distance, the ice cave may appear dark, but as you approach, under the illumination of sunlight or fill lights, the ice cave will present a beautiful blue color and transparency. The interior of the ice cave is crystal clear, with blue-green ice walls resembling a huge gemstone, and layers of white ice crystals resembling bird feathers. The ice crystals at the top of the cave are very spectacular, arranged neatly like fish scales and gemstones. In certain seasons or conditions, such as collapses caused by earthquakes in summer, they may form unique landscapes such as ice arches, large ice columns, etc. Due to the variable climate and weather conditions in Alaska, it is important to be safe when exploring the Blue Ice Cave and not deviate from the designated hiking route. If you deviate from the route, the snow will become very soft and may even encounter frozen lakes, which is very dangerous.

Matanuska Glacier

The Matanuska Glacier formed approximately 10000 years ago and was part of a larger land glacier. The glacier is located near Glenn Highway, about 160 kilometers northeast of Anchorage, and is the largest glacier that can be reached by car within the United States. The upstream of the glacier flows about 30 centimeters (1 foot) forward every day. However, due to the melting of glaciers in lower areas, the position of the glacier terminus has not changed much in the past 30 years. The downstream part has now melted into a river, with dust and ice water merging together to form a muddy ice covered land. Except for a white mountain in the distance, it is difficult to see the silhouette of the glacier without special guidance. When traveling in glacier areas, due to the complex terrain of glaciers, one should remain vigilant and avoid accidents. At the same time, do not discard any debris or garbage, and maintain the stability of the glacier environment.

Kenai Fjords National Park

The main attraction of Kenai Fjord National Park is the Hardin Ice Sheet, which covers an area of approximately 1800 square kilometers. Hardin Ice Sheet is a sea of ice and snow covered with an ice cap approximately 1600 meters thick. This land has not yet recovered from the large Pleistocene ice sheet that covered most of Alaska 10000 to 12000 years ago. More than 30 glaciers extend from it every year. In addition to land covered in ice and snow, fjords also have a rich variety of marine mammals, such as sea otters, sea lions, spotted seals, Pacific dolphins, porpoises, killer whales, humpback whales, and gray whales. If you want to go to the park for sightseeing, it is recommended to depart from Anchorage, drive to the town of Seward, and then take a cruise to admire the glaciers. If you have experience hiking in polar climates, staying overnight in the town of Seward and hiking to admire glaciers the next morning is also a good way to travel. Regardless of the method, due to the unpredictable weather in Alaska, please take measures to prevent cold and keep warm, and keep an eye on the weather forecast at all times.

Denali National Park

Denali National Park is home to the highest Mount McKinley in North America, which is one of the grandest mountain ranges in the region. The park boasts a diverse range of landforms, including glaciers, rivers, lakes, and more. There are numerous wild animals inhabiting the park, such as North American reindeer, moose, grizzly bears, brown bears, elk, white bighorn sheep, foxes, eagles, etc. Tourists can take the shuttle provided by the park to explore the traces of wild animals inside the park. In addition, the park is home to over 650 different types of plants and a variety of mosses, making it a rare place for plant enthusiasts. When visiting, one should comply with park regulations and maintain a safe distance from wild animals; When encountering bears or other large animals, one should remain calm and not startle or provoke them. Due to the fragility and uniqueness of the glacier ecological environment, any foreign garbage can have a devastating impact on the ecological environment here. While playing, one should pay attention to maintaining the cleanliness of the environment and not litter items at will.

Katmai National Park

Katmai National Park preserves a wealth of volcanic relics, including craters, cones, and ash flows, making it a research treasure trove for geologists and volcanologists. The most famous volcano related attraction is the Valley of Ten Thousand Smoke, formed by the Novarupta volcanic eruption in 1912. The valley is filled with volcanic ash and volcanic rocks, creating a spectacular scenery. In addition to the spectacular volcanic scenery, this is also one of the largest brown bear reserves in the world, with an estimated population of over 2000 brown bears inhabiting here. In addition, there are various wild animals such as salmon and seabirds in the park. When visiting the park, attention should be paid to maintaining a safe distance from wild animals and not actively feeding them to avoid disturbing their normal living and eating habits. At the same time, when traveling, one should respect the natural environment, not litter, not damage vegetation, and not interfere with the habitat and reproduction of wild animals.

Journey to Hawaii:Big Island

The Big Island of Hawaii has abundant natural resources, including volcanoes, tropical rainforests, alpine wastelands and other natural landscapes, as well as abundant marine resources. The island has numerous volcanoes, among which the most famous are the Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea volcanoes. The Mauna Loa volcano has an elevation of 4176 meters and is one of the world's famous active volcanoes, often erupting lava. Mount Mauna Kea has an elevation of 4207 meters and is the highest peak in the Hawaiian Islands. In addition to its rich natural landscapes, the island also preserves many ancient Hawaiian traditional handicrafts and folk customs, such as weaving, carving, and pottery making. You can experience the traditional way of life and cultural customs of Hawaii in depth here.

Mauna Kea

The sea of clouds and sunrise/sunset on the Big Island is one of the rare scenic spots. To appreciate this beauty, it is recommended to visit Mauna Kea, the highest peak in the Hawaiian Islands and an excellent place to watch the sea of clouds and sunset. Looking down from the mountaintop, the sea of clouds is as turbulent as the sea, and the scenery is very spectacular. The sea of clouds at sunrise, illuminated by the sun, presents a soft and mysterious color, giving people a sense of tranquility and serenity. The sea of clouds at sunset intertwines with the afterglow of the setting sun, forming a magnificent and colorful painting. It should be noted that the viewing location of Cloud Sea is usually located on higher mountain peaks, with steep mountain roads and variable weather, so it is necessary to choose suitable transportation. It is recommended to rent a four-wheel drive vehicle and wear appropriate warm clothing to go for viewing.

Hawaii Volcano National Park

Hawaii Volcano National Park is a comprehensive tourist destination that combines natural landscapes, cultural history, and adventure experiences. There are two active large volcanoes in the park, namely Mauna Loa Volcano and Kilauea Volcano. Mauna Loa Volcano is the tallest active volcano in the world, while Kilauea Volcano is one of the most active volcanoes in the world. The lava lake formed by its crater is often in a boiling state, and the scenery is fantastic and safe to watch. The main landscapes in the park include spectacular lava flows formed during volcanic eruptions, volcanic lava flowing into cold seawater, black sandy beaches gradually formed due to the pushing and impact of incoming waves on rocks and reefs, and dense tropical rainforests providing visitors with rich hiking routes and adventure experiences. If you want to witness the spectacular eruption of an active volcano with your own eyes, this park is an unmissable choice.

Akaka Fall

Akaka Falls is one of the most magnificent and beautiful waterfalls on the Big Island of Hawaii. The rushing Kolekole River flows directly down a cliff over 130 meters high, crashing into a deep pool, creating a spectacular scene. The surroundings of the waterfall are warm and humid, and the air is fresh yet infused with the fragrance of plants, forming a beautiful natural painting. In the indigenous legend of Hawaii, the two lovers of Akaka Falls, Lehua and Maile, were heartbroken after Akaka fell from a high place and cried all day long. Later, they transformed into two smaller waterfalls and accompanied him in a nearby ravine. There is a tropical rainforest trail about 0.5 miles long around the Akaka Waterfall, and tourists can follow this trail to admire the Akaka Waterfall. On both sides of the path are dense tropical rainforests, where various plants of different shapes grow.

Waipio Valley

This used to be a refuge for indigenous kings, named after King Kamehameha I who lived here as a child. It is an important historical and cultural site in Hawaii. In Waipio Valley, there is the largest Hiilawe Waterfall on the island, with a spectacular drop of 396 meters. At the bottom of Waipio Valley, there are forests, blooming plants, and ancient taro fields, showcasing Hawaii's unique tropical scenery. In addition, there are natural landscapes such as streams and black sand beaches in the valley. At present, there are less than a hundred people living in the King's Valley, most of whom come for vacation. Due to the inconvenience of entering and exiting the valley, as well as the lack of television and mobile phone signals, King's Valley gives people a primitive and mysterious feeling.

Coffee Plantation

The Oshima Coffee Plantation mainly grows Kona Coffee, one of Hawaii's most famous coffee varieties known for its unique flavor and aroma. You can personally visit the coffee plantation on Oshima Island to learn about the growth environment and cultivation process of coffee, and experience the charm of coffee culture. And taste a variety of flavors of coffee, including light toast, medium toast, and dark toast, experiencing different tastes and aromas of coffee. High quality coffee beans can also be purchased from coffee plantations as souvenirs or gifts for family and friends. The Oshima Coffee Plantation is highly favored by tourists for its unique geographical environment and climate conditions, high-quality coffee varieties and planting patterns, meticulous processing, and rich coffee culture experience. If you are interested in coffee, you may want to personally visit the Oshima Coffee Plantation to explore it.

Big Island Abalone Farm

Due to the high temperature of seawater around the Big Island, it is not suitable for the growth of abalone. Therefore, the farm uses a pipeline system to draw cold water from the deep sea between the Big Island and Maui Island at a depth of 1000-1500 meters for abalone farming. You can follow the staff to visit the abalone farm and learn about the growth environment, breeding techniques, and food sources of abalone. During the visit, you can observe abalone up close and have the opportunity to personally fish for abalone for observation and play. After the visit, visitors can enjoy a locally cooked abalone feast at the entrance of the farm. These abalones are freshly raised on the farm and have a delicious taste. The opening hours of the farm may be adjusted due to factors such as season and weather. It is recommended to consult the official website or phone before visiting.

Kaloko Honokohau National Historical Park

Kaloko Honokohau National Historical Park is an excellent destination that combines history, nature, and wildlife viewing. Strolling in the park, visitors can observe various farming methods, as well as heiau and kii pohaku rock paintings. The park is also an excellent place to learn how early ancient Hawaiians survived on the rugged Kona coast. There are two huge Hawaiian fish ponds in the park, which fully showcase the engineering talents of ancient Hawaiians. Strolling on the white sand of Honokohau Beach, tourists can appreciate the stark contrast with the black lava coastline and feel the amazing craftsmanship of nature. If lucky, tourists may also discover sun kissed sea creatures such as monk seals and turtles on the beach.

Journey to Hawaii-Maui

Maui Island has abundant tropical rainforest resources and is a habitat for many rare animals and plants. These tropical rainforests provide excellent places for tourists to hike and explore. The Haleakala volcano on the island has an elevation of 3063 meters and is one of the highest volcanoes in the Hawaiian Islands. The massive dormant crater at the top of the volcano is a rainbow colored pot pit, which seems to change color every minute due to visual illusions and has become a part of the Haleakala National Park. Tourists can rent a car and drive along the highway to the top of the volcano, enjoying the desolate landscape that resembles the surface of the moon.

Molokini

Molokini is a product of underwater volcanic activity. During the eruption of underwater volcanoes, many new islands were formed, and Morogini is one of them. The waters around the Molokini volcano are an excellent place for snorkeling and scuba diving. Tourists can explore the kaleidoscope like coral reefs and over 250 species of tropical fish, enjoying the wonders and beauty of the underwater world. As a marine and bird sanctuary, Molokini is also a paradise for birdwatching enthusiasts. Tourists can observe various rare bird species here and feel the harmony and tranquility of nature. It should be noted that when engaging in marine activities such as snorkeling, please pay attention to the safety guidance of coaches or other professionals, and comply with the regulations and prohibitions for protecting the marine ecological environment and rare species.

Road to hana

The Hana Road is located in the eastern part of Maui Island, Hawaii, and serves as a bridge leading to the pristine heart of the island. This road passes through lush tropical rainforests along the way, presenting visitors with a scene of lush greenery. Along the road, you can enjoy the cascading waterfalls and numerous pools, which add more fun to the journey. The spectacular sea view makes people feel the vastness and magnificence of the ocean. Located about 30 kilometers away from Hana Road, one can see Keanae Valley and two waterfalls here. Walking up the stairs on the right, tourists can enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Wairua Peninsula. The observation deck also has a bathroom and a simple cement dining table. The Hana Road has numerous and steep bends, and it is recommended that drivers drive patiently. At the same time, pay attention to the beautiful scenery on the roadside while driving, and do not miss unique landscapes such as colorful eucalyptus trees.

lao Valley State Park

Iao Valley State Park is considered a blessed place by locals, with dense forests, lush greenery, and unparalleled beauty. There is a rock peak in the valley that reaches 686 meters high, standing among the mountains like a green spire soaring into the clouds. It is one of the famous landmarks of Maui Island. The Io Valley is a favorite of many hikers, and along the clearly marked hiking trails in the park, one can admire the magical Io needle shaped volcanic cones. From the observation deck at the mountaintop, you can take in the beautiful scenery of the valley and even overlook the beautiful Kahului Harbor. When visiting the Io Valley, please pay attention to safety, especially when hiking and taking photos. At the same time, we should also respect the local culture and customs, and not trample on forbidden areas such as tombs at will.

Haleakala National Park

Haleakala National Park is the largest dormant volcano park in the United States. The highest peak in the park has an elevation of 3055 meters. The geographical landscape of the volcanic crater is as desolate as the surface of the moon, making it an excellent location for exploration and photography. In the high-altitude areas of the park, spectacular cloud sea landscapes can often be seen, giving people a feeling of being in a fairyland. There are multiple hiking trails in the park, such as Halemauu Trail, P ā Ka'oao Trail, Sliding Sands Trail, etc., which allow you to get up close to nature and enjoy beautiful scenery such as volcanic craters and sea of clouds. However, please note that hiking requires a certain amount of physical strength and time, and it is recommended to prepare in advance. In certain areas of the park, such as the Red Hill Summit, one can enjoy spectacular sunrise or sunset views. This is one of the main purposes for many tourists to visit here. Due to the high altitude and variable climate of the park, it is recommended that visitors bring appropriate clothing and rain protection.

Black sandy beaches

Black sandy beaches are known for their black sand grains, which are formed by volcanic activity and the erosion and erosion of basalt over a long period of time by waves. The black sand grains create a sharp contrast with the surrounding green vegetation and blue seawater, providing visitors with a unique visual experience. The black sand beach in Wai ʻā napanapa State Park is one of the representative attractions of Maui's black sand beach. The park not only has beautiful black sand beaches, but also dense tropical rainforests, spectacular cliffs, and abundant marine life. Tourists can engage in hiking, photography, snorkeling and other activities here. During specific seasons and time periods, tourists can see sea turtles crawling, foraging, or laying eggs on the beach here.

Journey to Hawaii:Oahu Island

Oahu Island holds an important position in Hawaiian culture and history, and is one of the birthplaces of indigenous Hawaiian culture. The island preserves many traditional cultural and historical relics. In addition, Oahu Island was also a landing point for early European explorers and missionaries who arrived in Hawaii, witnessing Hawaii's exchange and integration with the world. There are a total of 69 beaches on the island, among which the most famous is Waikiki Beach. In addition, there are 23 state parks, 286 county-level parks, and community centers on the island, providing visitors with a rich tourism experience.

Waikiki Beach

Waikiki means "gushing spring" in indigenous languages and was once a marshland formed by mountain streams and springs. In ancient times, this was the beach used by the Hawaiian royal family. Waikiki Beach boasts soft and pristine white sandy beaches, swaying coconut trees, and open and peaceful waters, making it perfect for water activities such as swimming, surfing, and snorkeling. In addition, there are many famous historical sites here, such as the Waikiki Hylomoya Temple, the Ancient Philosopher's Stone, the Shark God Cave, the King's Summer Palace, and the Queen's Garden. In addition, surfing competitions are held annually and various outdoor performances and Hawaiian hula dance performances are held irregularly, allowing tourists to fully experience the multicultural atmosphere of Hawaii.

Diamond Head

Diamond Head was formed during volcanic eruptions on Oahu Island in ancient times. During the eruption, the wind blowing from the north blew the magma towards the south by the sea, causing the southern part of the volcano to rise high and form the unique volcanic cone shape it has today. There is a approximately 1100 meter long hiking trail inside the crater of Diamond Head Mountain, which is the main route for climbing Diamond Head Mountain. There are signs and markings along the trail, and it takes one and a half hours to two hours to climb back and forth. Along the way, it will pass through caves and stairs, which is quite challenging. At the top of Diamond Head, there is an observation deck that offers panoramic views of the entire Honolulu city, Waikiki Beach, and the southern coast of Oahu Island. The sunset scenery here is also unforgettable, making it an excellent shooting location for photography enthusiasts.

Kualoa Ranch

Kualoa Ranch is a traditional cattle ranch and farm managed and preserved by local Hawaiian families. In ancient times, ranches were also considered one of the most sacred places by the indigenous people of Hawaii. Nowadays, Kualoa Ranch has become a filming location for many TV shows and Hollywood movies, such as Jurassic Park, Whisperer, Pearl Harbor, and Godzilla. There are 7 movie shooting bases within the ranch, where you can visit movie related scenery and feel as if you are in a movie setting. The ranch also has a unique Hawaiian cowboy style restaurant, where you can not only visit the ranch, but also taste local cuisine with unique flavors.

Iolani Palace

The Iolani Palace was ordered to be built by the last king of the Kingdom of Hawaii, Kalakava, in 1882. The architectural style incorporates European elements, especially the Florentine style. The exterior is grand and atmospheric, while the interior decoration is luxurious and elegant. Inside the palace, there are elegant rosewood stairs, European velvet curtains, as well as classical European court furniture and exquisite decorations. From the architecture to the interior decoration, it is like a European palace and noble mansion.. This palace is also home to Hawaii's first electric lighting system, flush toilet, and telephone.

Kailua

Kailua Ancient Town is a small town full of history and cultural atmosphere, with many ancient buildings and cultural heritage. At the same time, Kailua Beach is located here, which is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the United States. The sea water here is charming in color, with white and delicate sand, suitable for swimming and various water sports. As well as famous beaches such as Kailua Beach Park and Lanikai Beach, there are also abundant seaside mansions, supermarkets, restaurants, and other shops nearby, providing residents and tourists with rich living and entertainment facilities.

Dole Plantation

Dole Plantation mainly focuses on pineapple cultivation. You can take a small train to visit the pineapple planting area and gain a deeper understanding of the entire process from sowing to growth of pineapples. It should be noted that the plantation is free to enter, but additional tickets are required for activities such as taking the train. In addition to pineapples, there are various tropical plants planted, such as coffee trees, cocoa trees, etc. You can observe these tropical plants up close and feel the magical charm of nature. Dole Plantation also features the world's largest outdoor plant maze, the Pineapple Grove Maze, certified by Guinness, where visitors can challenge their wit and fun. There are large souvenir shops and restaurants in the park, offering a variety of Dule plantation gifts, local cuisine, and beverages, especially pineapple flavored ice cream, which is popular among tourists. You can also purchase fresh tropical fruits such as pineapples here to take home.