Are you planning to travel? the land of limitless adventure, beauty, and excitement is the thing to do in Arizona that awaits you. It is a state with top tourist attractions for all travelers whether you are traveling alone or with family. Start your journey with Phoenix, the state capital, a bustling city full of fun activities, from cultural spots to cool parks and popular tourist attractions. No trip to Arizona is complete without visiting the iconic Grand Canyon, which is at the top of everyone’s bucket list. For a more quiet but beautiful destination head to Sedona, Arizona, popular for its red rocks. With hiking, biking, and horseback riding, Sedona will never disappoint. Flagstaff is another popular destination, especially during the fall when the leaves change color. Scottsdale and Mesa, Arizona are perfect places to experience with their picturesque upscale resorts and fine dining luxury. Again, if you’re looking for something different, Page, Lake Powell, and Antelope Canyon await you. Although Arizona isn’t known for its beaches, don’t worry, Arizona’s lakes won’t let you down. 22 Best Things to Do in Arizona Here are 22 places that Arizona’s love to visit while spending some vacation time in AZ. 1. Explore the Grand Canyon National Park #Famous things to do in Arizona The Grand Canyon is one of the most special places in the entire world. The Grand Canyon stands as one of the seven wonders of our world. It’s no wonder why millions of people travel here every year. Once you stand next to it, you will understand why. The breathtaking view is powerful enough to freeze anyone for a moment. How beautiful nature can be! No words are enough to express the beauty of the Grand Canyon. There are many roadside pull-offs to enjoy the Grand Canyon and numerous viewpoints, but if you’re looking for something a little more intense and adventurous, you can check out the Bright Angel Trail, which takes you along the white trail. Sand beach at the bottom of the canyon. It’s about a 20-mile day, but what an experience to get to the bottom of the Grand Canyon! Take extra care if you’re traveling with small children. Go there early and enjoy the wonderful creation of nature. 2. See Monument Valley #Best things to do in Arizona It actually stands right on the borderline of Utah and Arizona, but on the Arizona side lies the Navajo National Tribal Park and Visitor Center. It really is a place of incredible beauty and iconic landscape. Its image shows up on screens, magazines, and advertisements, capturing the attention of people all over the world. Nestled amidst the vast and barren desert, high sandstone buttes majestically rise toward the endless sky in vibrant reds and oranges, contrasting against the blue. And of course, it is not a visit without stopping on Forrest Gump Road, as seen in the famous movie. For visitor purposes, there is a 17-mile loop road to travel with many places to pull over for photos. This is one of those very special places: Monument Valley. 3. Coconino National Forest #Things to do in Arizona Most preferred spot to retreat. The Coconino National Forest is characterized by a varying topography that ranges from a red rock desert to cool pine trees. Many types of wildlife can be found in this region, and many types of outdoor activities including camping, hiking, fishing, hunting, etc. The place also has numerous geological features and historical sites available for exploration The beauty and seclusion found within this forest cannot be compared to that of any other forest. Kindly consider other visitors, the wildlife, and nature around. Always keep the area clean; Don’t leave anything behind, or take anything but memories; Respect the fire bans; Leave wildlife alone. 4. Visit Antelope Canyon #Unique things to do in Arizona Antelope Canyon is truly a natural wonder, offering two distinct but equally mesmerizing experiences. Upper Antelope Canyon is a great way to see the beautiful canyon and is actually quite easy with more adventurous hikes. The Upper Canyon captivates with its iconic light beams and wide, easy-to-navigate trails, making it a photographer’s paradise. If you’ve ever heard of Lower Antelope Canyon, it’s that super famous place that becomes so tempting to visit; it takes a permit, and it has been closed during the pandemic. Pressing on with the adventurous quest, the play of light and shadow is equally breathtaking here, with every turn revealing a new look. You can make a day of it, kayaking directly into Antelope Canyon, or taking a backpacking trip to Antelope Island if you so prefer. 5. Canyon de Chelly National Monument #Top things to do in Arizona Canyon de Chelly National Monument This historic national monument has a rich past that spans over five thousand years. A beautiful landscape with cliffs, ancient rock art, and a deep canyon carved by Chinle Wash. The Navajo Nation, who have lived in the area for thousands of years. You almost have your place on the South Rim, the North Rim we had to ourselves. Unfortunately, the White House Trail is closed so the only way to hike is with a (free) ranger tour or an organized tour which is quite expensive. You can explore the canyon through guided tours, hiking trails, and scenic viewpoints. 6. Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests #Best things to do in Arizona Extending more than 2 million acres across the Mogollon Rim and the White Mountains, the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest is impressive in its range. It is a biologically rich area with beautiful alpine meadows, pine trees, and many lakes and rivers. Among the attractions are recreational activities such as camping, hiking, fishing, and wildlife observation. The forests are inhabited by various species such as elk, black bears, and bald eagles. People come in large numbers to enjoy the low temperatures during the summer and even the snow-covered surfaces in the winter. There are also several trails along this area. 7. Coronado National Forest #Best
If you’re thinking about which places to visit in the US, Oregon is amongst the hot destinations. Oregon, whose Pacific coast is bordered by neighboring California, is a state full of natural beauty and hidden brook. Ranging from very beautiful beaches through snow-capped mountains to dense forests, Oregon has several lovely waterfalls that offer different experiences to every traveler. In this blog, I will take you through my “Tale of Journey” and explore some of the best places to visit in Oregon. Name it from iconic Portland to charming coastal towns and the majestic Cascade Mountains show the must-see spots that make Oregon truly popular. So, put on your hiking boots, pack your camera, and get ready to go on an exploration spree around Oregon’s hidden treasures. 1. Crater Lake National Park #Best places to visit in Oregon It sits in the Cascade Mountains of southwestern Oregon. Scenically and geologically, it is unlike anywhere else on the earth. This is no crater but a remnant of Mount Mazama after its volcanic eruption, literally the deepest lake within the United States, and water of a sapphire blue hue that is just amazing. Crater Lake is easiest to see along Rim Drive, which circles the entire lake. The route begins in Rim Village, home to the Crater Lake Lodge and Rim Village Visitor Center. Snowshoers and cross-country skiers use bare roads for winter travel. Some of the finest hiking trails in Oregon are found at Crater Lake National Park. The hiking and backpacking opportunities extend far from the rim, including the Pacific Crest Trail. There’s so much more to see in Southern Oregon beyond the national parks. Crater Lake is surrounded by wild places – like the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest – with hundreds of miles of trails to hike. Crater Lake is the northern terminus of the spectacular 500-mile, state-wide Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway. 2. Cannon Beach #Best places to visit in Oregon Cannon Beach is a popular tourist destination on the northern Oregon coast, with spectacular views of wide stretches of sand and jagged coastal rocks. Haystack Rock is the largest of these sea stacks and is an integral part of any tour of this coastal community. In addition to spectacular ocean views, Cannon Beach also offers cultural appeal with restaurants, boutique shops, and great hotels. North of Cannon Beach, charming Ecola State Park, and Tillamook Head include historic and scenic landscapes to explore, including a trail that follows the path of Lewis and Clark. The charming seaside town is on the other side of Icola State Park, which offers more family-friendly trips along the coast. 3. Mount Hood National Forest #Best places to visit in Oregon Mount Hood is the highest mountain in Oregon, with a summit of 11,239 feet. This enormity makes the mountain an incredible landmark in the state, visible from every direction on a clear day. Mount Hood National Forest covers the entire mountain and many parts of it. This public space offers all kinds of adventure. The mountain slopes offer downhill skiing at the Mount Hood Ski Bowl, scenic hiking paths like the Timberline Trail, and scenic viewpoints accessible via the Mount Hood Scenic Loop. The national-wide Pacific Crest Trail traverses the southwest edge of the mountain. The historic town of Government Camp and the nearby Timberline Lodge are major attractions in this mountain landscape. The reflective Trillium Lake offers a magnificent mountain view. 4. Willamette Valley #Best places to visit in Oregon Located in the State of Oregon is the Willamette Valley, a well-known region mostly due to agricultural practice and wine production. It is one of the leading wine-producing regions in the United States with a great reputation for the peppermint patty grape variety. This valley is located in the mountain area and is enclosed within rivers and greenery making it a great place to travel to. Here you will have the opportunity to go for wine tasting, sightseeing and enjoy their dishes. When having a wine tasting in Willamette Valley, consider it as California’s Napa Valley. 5. Columbia River Gorge #Best places to visit in Oregon Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area This beautiful river gorge is located between Oregon and Washington states. Within a fifty-minute radius from the city of Portland lies this incredible region known for breathtaking sights and a variety of waterfalls. Rising dramatically at 620 feet, the famous Multnomah Falls are the highest waterfall in the state, if not the most photographed display of rain in the Columbia River Gorge. In addition to the falls, the Multnomah area has hiking and biking trails as well as camping sites. Also you Wahkeena Falls, Fairy Falls. It was established as a National Scenic Area in 1986 and is one of the most frequented areas for those who enjoy nature’s wonders and gorges. 6. Smith Rock State Park #Best places to visit in Oregon Smith Rock State Park is an international climbing destination located near Bend in Central Oregon. A famous destination especially for rock climbers. It has towering volcanic cliffs, dramatic rock formations, and meandering rivers. Not just climbers; Mountain bikers, hikers, and photographers often explore the scenic surroundings of the state park. For some of the best hiking in the area, visit Misery Ridge. Known as one of the birthplaces of sport climbing, Smith Rock attracts climbers from around the world as well as nature lovers. 7. Silver Falls State Park #Best places to visit in Oregon Silver Falls State Park in the state of Oregon is certainly a sight worth seeing for anyone who loves beautiful surroundings. Speaking of the most intriguing and picturesque state park, then Silver Falls comes to mind. Not only is this one of the most beautiful states but also this beautiful place is a must-visit, as it provides breathtaking views, a variety of wildlife, and interesting activities for tourists. It has several beautiful waterfalls, and great hiking, climbing on horseback, and bunking opportunities as well. To add on, Silver Falls State Park
Hello Traveler, Find your next adventure for explore the best places to visit in Utah. From the salt flats to the bright red rock formations even making the alien world appear to be on Earth, Utah possesses one of the most unique features in the United States. With a total of five national parks and over 40 state parks, it is a haven for nature lovers and, simultaneously, an experience in adventure. The state will also have small towns oozing all the charm, premier ski resorts, and even an urban center in Salt Lake City midway through one’s trip, making it impossible to get bored. History buffs get to visit sites such as the largest saltwater lake, or some of the interesting ancient rock art that has been found in the canyons and cliffs throughout this state. Some folks show up to conquer adrenaline-pumping hiking trails, others to ooh and ahh over quirky attractions, and some to study the ruins of ancient civilizations. It is just a case of anything, anywhere, and not really knowing where to start. In this blog post, I’ll take you on a virtual tour of some of the best places to visit in Utah through my “Tale of Journey“. Get ready to be inspired and plan your next adventure in this incredible state. The 18 Best Places To Visit In Utah Here are the best places to visit in Utah for whatever adventure you’re looking for. 1. Zion National Park Zion National Park is certainly one of those places that can leave you utterly speechless and does this with one of the most amazing landscapes found in the United States. Zion boasts some of the most incredible rock formations, including towering sandstone cliffs, making it a favorite destination for hiking, canyoning, and climbing. Whichever, multiple trails entice hikers from the more difficult, like Angel’s Landing, to easier trails like Riverside Walk. Fantastic photo opportunities, incredibly scenic drives, and trails to die for with viewpoints, and this place is a catch for whatever activity one desires, be it hiking, casual visits, or even relaxation in the scenery. Zion National Park promises to leave one with lifetime memories. The park grounds are very clean, an amazing place to clean up the campsites, and have fun with family and friends. Top Attractions 2. Bryce Canyon National Park Bryce Canyon is Utah’s most unique national park. Glowing in shades of orange, pink and cinnamon, the stone pillars rise from the floor of a huge natural amphitheater, truly taking your breath away. I think this park is best seen by hiking. We quickly parked at Bryce Point and hiked the Rim Trail to Inspiration Point, then Sunset and Sunrise Point. After a short rest, we headed down the Queens Garden Trail and back up the Navajo Loop. While moderately challenging, the hike through the Hoodoos Forest is beautiful not only from the top but also from the bottom. My favorite hiking route is the Scenic Navajo Trail and Queens Garden Loop Trail combination. Other things to do in Bryce Canyon include watching the sunset from Inspiration Point, driving the scenic drive to Bristlecone Point, and taking in the Rim View. Still quite challenging for non-hikers. I would say you should do the Rim Trail if you are able. Really cool and inspiring. Top Attractions 3. Arches National Park Arches ranks among the most spectacular and popular national parks in the US. Visitors from all over the world are fascinated by the overwhelming stone arches and rolling petrified dunes, which have taken millions of years to develop into the shapes you see today. There are more than 2,000 natural arches scattered around the park, but the most popular one is Delicate Arch. A 3-mile, 4.8-kilometer round-trip hike brings you to this breathtaking arch, and it is definitely worth it once you reach the top. Another great hiking trail can be found in the maze-like Fiery Furnace; however, entry is allowed only with a ranger or an individual permit, which requires an advance reservation. Top Attractions 4. Canyonlands National Park Canyonlands National Park in southeastern Utah is a landscape of canyons cut by the Colorado and Green Rivers into the desert. It’s a very large park and has much more walking than car sightseeing in it. I believe you can spend an entire day visiting different places within the park; so, you have to plan accordingly. Spanning over 330,000 acres, the park is divided into four districts: Island in the Sky, The Needles, The Maze, and the rivers themselves. Panoramic views, massive rock formations giving way to deep canyons, and ancient petroglyphs are some of the myriad experiences provided by each district. Outdoor activities like hiking and biking are popular; the park is remote enough that some clear night skies can be enjoyed for stargazing. Top Attractions 5. Salt Lake City It is known as the center of American Mormonism, Utah’s capital is rich in various religious, natural landscapes, and historical sights. Nestled between the Great Salt Lake and Wasatch Mountains, it offers endless opportunities for hiking, skiing, and visiting nearby national parks to the outdoor enthusiast. Take some time to visit Temple Square to view the huge Salt Lake Temple and learn about the Mormon faith from church representatives. The following are recommended for those interested either in the Great Salt Lake or the Native Americans of the area: the Natural History Museum of Utah and the Botanical Garden. When families are visiting, they might want to incorporate stops into their visit like the Hogle Zoo or catch a movie at the Redwood Drive-In Theater. Top Attractions 6. Bonneville Salt Flats One of the most extraordinary natural wonders of the country sits about a hundred miles west of Salt Lake City, the Bonneville Salt Flats. Composed of 30,000 acres of bright white clay, which seems to sparkle in isolation beneath the surrounding mountains. These flats are remnants of the ancient Lake Bonneville that dried up long ago, leaving behind a
Welcome to colorful Colorado. Colorado is a western US state in the Mountain West subregion. The beauty of its towns and cities is filled with natural splendor, charming attractions, wide cultural attractions and unique outdoor offerings. It is a fascinating place that millions of tourists visit Colorado Springs every year. The state has various natural attractions that range from beautiful alpine lakes to high deserts, rivers, majestic Rocky Mountains, wildlife, rolling hills, and waterfalls. Outdoor enthusiasts can have unforgettable outdoor fun in a mountain town while visitors enjoy scenic drives through state highways and parks. Colorado is an unbeatable destination. If you’re into hiking, skiing or sightseeing, want a quiet escape into nature, or explore the state’s rich history and culture, Colorado is the place for you. Today I will try to give you a complete travel guide of the best places to visit in Colorado and things to do in Colorado through my Tale of Journey. Best places to Visit In Colorado Here are the 16 best places to visit in Colorado: 1. Rocky Mountain National Park #Best Places To Visit In Colorado It covers approximately 265,807 acres and exposes a wonderful range of mountain environments in northern Colorado.From the roaring mountain peaks and meadows down to alpine lakes, abundant wildlife, and pristine forests, this park is a beauty. It consists of a vast network of trails ranging from half-mile paths to multi-day hikes that are truly beautiful. You can hike through alpine meadows, scale challenging mountains, or simply sit down and take in the quiet of nature. Other places of interest include the famous Trail Ridge Road, passing through the alpine tundra of the park, and Emerald Lake, a stunning glacial lake with towering peaks surrounding it.You will most likely encounter bighorn sheep, deer, elk, and other critters while hiking, fishing, horseback riding, camping, climbing, or bouldering. 2. San Juan National Forest #Best Places To Visit In Colorado The San Juan National Forest, which covers more than 1.8 million acres of beautiful landscapes such as lofty mountains, rich forests and alpine lakes in the southwestern region of Colorado is at its best. It was founded in 1905 and has numerous outdoor activities like hiking, camping, fishing and wildlife viewing. The San Juan Mountain range with its rugged terrain is part of this forest adorned by important trails such as the Colorado Trail or Continental Divide Trail. This place is full of history and biodiversity with old mining towns around it; moreover there are other animals like elk, black bears and bald eagles living here too. In winter time visitors come to ski, snowshoe or use snowmobiles on its slopes. In whatever way you seek adventure or relaxation; nature enthusiasts do not forget San Juan National Forest all through the year. 3. Pike-San Isabel National Forest #Best Places To Visit In Colorado Pike-San Isabel National Forest is located in central Colorado and covers an area of over 2.25 million acres, from alpine peaks to dense forests. Various such majestic mountains, which include a number of 14,000-footers like Pikes Peak and Mount Elbert, are home to excellent possibilities for hiking, camping, and skiing. Rich wildlife, such as elk, black bears, and bighorn sheep, thrive in these forests. Some of the famous hotspots include scenic byways like Guanella Pass and Collegiate Peaks Wilderness. Visitors have opportunities to hike one of the many trails, fish in lakes, and view areas of awesome beauty. The forest is open year-round-from snowshoeing, and boating, to viewing wildlife. 4. Denver #Best Places To Visit In Colorado Denver, situated at the base of Rockies, is a colorful urban area where people can enjoy both outdoor adventures and other urban cultural activities. Nestled within Denver’s valley at the base of the Rocky Mountains are stunning mountain views; it is easily accessible to hiking, skiing and other outdoor activities. It has an exciting and growing arts scene with some of the best museums, galleries and theaters you will ever find anywhere as well as lively music and nightlife culture. Denver is also known for its historical experiences such as Denver Art Museum, Union Station, and old Larimer Square. Moreover; due to its altitude being one mile above sea level, this city receives sun shine for over three hundred days every year thus making it good paradise for those who love staying outdoors. 5. Garden of the Gods (Colorado Springs) #Best Places To Visit In Colorado It is fascinating to note that Colorado Springs’ Garden of the Gods, which is located just one and a half hours from downtown Denver, doesn’t charge anything at all. One can therefore witness why this place could easily serve as a state park considering how it is befittingly free. The striking contrast of towering reddish-brownish stone formations, soaring sandstone pillars, and impressive views of Pikes Peak Garden of the Gods against the snow-capped Rockies is astounding. On the other hand, if you’re looking at different activities to engage in while here there are lots of them including photography, walking, hiking or trail running, doing picnics, and rock climbing too! For instance, Kindergarten Rock had one of my most liked multi-pitch climbing routes around. This site is just amazing and if you happen to be passing through Colorado do not think twice about stopping by here; it’s an absolute must-see! Besides Denver, it is incredibly easy to make a day trip out of it too. 6. Great Sand Dunes National Park #Best Places To Visit In Colorado In southern Colorado, you’ll find Great Sand Dunes National Park – this North American tallest sand dunes whose park spans across a 30-square-mile area of towering dunes which can go up to heights of 750 feet. The park envelops 30 square miles of daunting dunes with grasslands, wetlands, and alpine forests. It’s possible to hike, standboard, or sled down the dunes as well as enjoy scenic Medano Creek that flows at their base seasonally. The Sangre de Cristo Mountains are also accessible through trails that go beyond the sand
Yosemite is among the largest national parks in America, located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, California, Yosemite National Park is a natural wonderland catering to every imaginable variation of tourist. It includes a variety of landscapes—icons of granite cliffs at El Capitan and Half Dome; magnificent waterfalls; tall, erect sequoias; vast and stretched grasses—but the lives of outdoor enthusiasts. Be it a hardcore hiker, a wildlife photographer, or one who just wants to witness and be a part of the beauty herself, this guidebook introduces you to Yosemite National Park and ensures that your trip will truly never be forgotten. Today, Yosemite National Park is referred to as a hiker’s paradise. One I will try to give you a complete travel guide of best places and things to do in Yosemite National Park through my ‘Tale of Journey’. If you have recently traveled to Yosemite National Park or are thinking of traveling in the future, I hope you will find this blog very helpful. So let’s start! 17 Best Places to Visit in Yosemite National Park Below are the 17 famous places to visit and things to do in Yosemite National Park: 1. Yosemite Valley #Best Places to Visit in Yosemite National Park Yosemite Valley is a glacial valley and one of the most beautiful places in the Sierra Nevada mountain range in central California. The length of this valley is about 7 miles, and its width reaches up to a mile, bounded by steep cliffs of granite on each side. Among these are very famous formations like El Capitan and Half Dome. In addition, it contains the grand waterfalls—the Yosemite Falls and Bridalveil Falls—lively meadows, and the peaceful Merced River. It is the main centerpiece of the whole Yosemite National Park—visited by millions each year to experience great hiking and rock climbing opportunities with incomparable landscape views. 2. Half Dome #Best Places to Visit in Yosemite National Park One of Yosemite National Park’s most popular landmarks is Half Dome. At almost 5,000 feet tall, Half Dome’s hiking routes draw seasoned hikers toward the park. Unlike other rock formations, it has an iconic shape that inspired its name. It can be seen from Glacier Point, Mirror Lake, and Olmsted Point in different parts of the national park. The cable route leading up to Half Dome is one of the hardest hikes in the park. The trail is between 14 and 16 miles long with an elevation gain of up to 4,800 feet. Take on one of Yosemite’s toughest hikes here. It is a difficult hike best done by well-prepared experienced hikers due to its difficulty and high altitude for which you need to be fully prepared as well as having ample experience. 3. El Capitan #Best Places to Visit in Yosemite National Park El Capitan is said to be the other significant landmark in Yosemite National Park, consisting of a popular vertical rock formation for hiking. It is one of the world’s most famous 3,000-foot rock formations, particularly most famous among advanced rock climbers since the sheer, vertical rock is a challenge for individuals to climb. This granite cliff appeals to photographers coming with telephoto lenses to capture the images of the climbers in action. Otherwise, El Capitan beautifully reflects in the Merced River. The most famed view, however, is from El Capitan Meadow, crossing the street where Northside Drive meets El Capitan Drive. El Capitan is one of the favorite tourist destinations of tourists; it represents the view and natural beauty portrayed in Yosemite. 4. Glacier Point #Best Places to Visit in Yosemite National Park Go off Waona Road, Highway 41, onto Glacier Point Road. Go uphill 15 miles to a large parking lot. From there you’ll climb to an elevation of seven thousand feet. Glacier Point is one of Yosemite National Park, California’s viewpoints—dramatic in its views of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, and the High Sierra. During summertime, it is accessible by car and during wintertime, cross-country skiing. It stands at 7,214 feet above sea level. From this vantage point, one can see a stunning view of the park with its granite cliffs, waterfalls, and lush forests that is simply a must for every photographer, hiker, and nature enthusiast out there. You really can’t miss it. 5. Yosemite Falls #Best Places to Visit in Yosemite National Park Yosemite Falls is a beautiful scenic landmark and a popular hiking spot in Yosemite National Park. It is the highest waterfall in North America and consists of three main sections all of which fall within an elevation over 2,425 feet: Upper Falls, Middle Cascades, and Lower Falls. This place peaks in beauty in late spring when peak flows usually happen in May. You can hike to the top of Yosemite’s Falls on a 7.2-mile round trip. Expect this to take about eight hours and be very strenuous. That factors in making Yosemite Falls one of the most commanding attractions in the park, with a site that offers visitors countless hikes to experience such magnificent scenes. 6. Mariposa Grove #Best Places to Visit in Yosemite National Park Located in Yosemite National Park in California, Mariposa Grove contains more than 500 mature giant sequoias, which include some of the world’s oldest and largest trees. The Grizzly Giant is the oldest tree in the grove, nearly 210 feet tall, and its age is estimated to be more than 3,000 years. Many hiking routes are available, with the Big Trees Loop Trail being the most popular for families and beginners in Mariposa Grove. The paved path is going to take around 30 to 45 minutes, but there are hiking trails available going on either side of the area with views of trees and landscape surroundings. 7. Vernal Fall #Best Places to Visit in Yosemite National Park One of the prettiest waterfalls is Vernal Falls, situated in Yosemite National Park, California. It has a fantastic group of cascades that tumble some 317 feet into the Merced River. The falls have been named “vernal”