Latest news with #outdoorenthusiasts
Yahoo
11 hours ago
- Yahoo
This Wisconsin state park campground is rated one of Midwest's best
Copper Falls State Park is primarily known for its beautiful scenery: two 30-feet waterfalls, a 100-foot gorge and the remains of ancient lava flows attract hikers every year. But don't forget about its two campgrounds. They, too, have been getting their flowers. The Dyrt, a popular camping website and app, placed Copper Falls at No. 3 in the Midwest Region on its 2025 Best Places to Camp Awards. The rankings are based on user reviews and ratings. "Copper Falls State Park is a fantastic destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The hiking trails are well-maintained and offer beautiful scenic views, making for an enjoyable trek through nature," user Malte W. said in an online review in December. "The campsites are spacious and provide a good amount of privacy, allowing for a peaceful camping experience." Located in Mellen, the park features two campgrounds with 55 total campsites. The North Campground has 32 sites (28 with electric hookups), while the South Campground has 23 non-electric sites (including four walk-ins) and a four-person cabin with padded beds and nearby shower facilities. There's also a backpack campsite along the Bad River, which provides a quieter setting. Camping costs $20 to $30 per night depending on the site and whether it has electrical hookups. All sites come equipped with picnic tables, fire rings and tent pads, and pets are allowed at all campsites. Visitors can also enjoy many hiking trails, fishing in Loon Lake and nearby rivers and exploring other picturesque areas of the park. This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Wisconsin's Copper Falls State Park among best Midwest campgrounds
Forbes
a day ago
- Forbes
The Uber-Rich Are Flocking To This Small Mountain Town
Telluride is known for its laid-back, authentic mountain atmosphere. While the Hamptons and Aspen grab the headlines, the real story of elite summer travel is unfolding in the San Juan Mountains at Telluride, Colorado. Known primarily for its outstanding skiing, Telluride has quietly transformed into the go-to summer escape for high-net-worth homeowners and travelers who crave privacy, authenticity, adventure and bespoke luxury. Crowds gather for opening day of the Telluride Film Festival. Telluride is renowned for its world-class skiing, vibrant summer festivals and authentic mountain character. It's a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of activities year-round, including not only skiing but also hiking and biking. The town hosts numerous festivals, including the Telluride Bluegrass Festival, Telluride Jazz Festival and Telluride Film Festival, adding to its cultural appeal. Telluride is known for its laid-back, authentic mountain atmosphere, attracting outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a more relaxed vacation experience. Telluride is seeing a surge of interest from the 1% who are drawn by the town's intentional under-the-radar vibe and quiet luxury. The $20M off-market ranches, miles of hiking trail excursions straight from your front door and zero paparazzi are all attractive draws for the rich and famous. There are no Gucci storefronts or restaurant lines here, just the kind of insider access and laid-back luxury that today's wealth gravitates toward. The limited commercial flights and ease of traveling to Telluride by private jet help, too Four Seasons is bringing a five-star hotel and condos. Telluride, which has been quietly growing its luxury personality over the past few years, is seeing increased interest from wealthy homebuyers and travelers looking for an adventurous, wellness-oriented, down-to-earth locale to spend their summers. Incredibly the town now sees more visitors and real estate sales in the summer than the winter, shocking for what's typically thought of as a ski destination. One key feature influencing the uber-rich is Four Seasons, which is bringing the first five-star hotel and branded condos in over 15 years to Telluride. It's no surprise many of the condos have already been snapped up by the affluent looking for year-round vacation homes — especially the wealthy from California, Florida and the Southwest who seek cooler mountain locations for the summer. Nadim Ashi, founder and CEO of Fort Partners, co-developer of Four Seasons Hotel and Residences Telluride, says, 'My family and I have been visiting Telluride for over 20 years. It is my favorite ski resort in the world. I've experienced firsthand its subtle yet steady evolution into a year-round luxury destination. We knew the Four Seasons brand would seamlessly align with the DNA of Telluride and complement everything it already has to offer. Our aim is for Four Seasons Hotel and Residences Telluride to set a new bar for residential and hospitality experiences in North American ski resorts.' Telluride is known throughout the world for its incredible skiing. Brian O'Neill of Telluride Properties, who is handling sales for Four Seasons Hotel and Residences Telluride alongside Compass' Bill Fandel, adds, "Telluride provides high quality ski conditions paired with a low-key lifestyle. The town feels down-to-earth, even while offering excellent restaurants, incredible scenery and year-round activities for every age. Those who want the best of nature and European-style, on-mountain dining without the over-the-top party scene of other mountain destinations like Aspen, Vail and Deer Valley know Telluride is their place.' In addition to this atmosphere, the value of Telluride's somewhat difficult-to-access location has become an advantage in recent years. Private aviation into Telluride is very easy and while commercial access has gotten much better, it is still longer and less direct than many mountain towns. This barrier to entry has propelled Telluride into an exclusive resort where the 'quiet luxury' affluent reside. O'Neill says, 'The introduction of the Four Seasons brand has also been a major catalyst for the region's luxury evolution. The area is attracting more luxury attention than ever before and Four Seasons is finally meeting the demand for an updated, premier property in this area. This idyllic destination is small and remote, creating a sense of exclusivity that appeals to luxury homeowners and travelers. At the same time, the region offers exceptional year-round adventures and activities, from skiing in the winter to outdoor sports, dozens of cultural festivals and educational programming in the summer.' Affluent travelers can enjoy luxurious surroundings all year round. Because of this comprehensive offering, developers are seeing a range of buyers looking for homes that fit various lifestyles. There's strong geographical diversity, with people from the East Coast and even Mexico wanting a Western ski home, while luxury buyers from areas like Texas, California and Florida are increasingly seeking out vacation home destinations they can escape to during the hot summer months. Some people want the trophy ski-in/ski-out mountain home, and others want a centrally located, full-service condo with tons of amenities. 'At Four Seasons Hotel and Residences Telluride, we've seen frequent travelers who are familiar with the brand and want to take advantage of the hotel residences, families looking for spacious homes where they can stay with their children during school or summer breaks, and everything in between,' explains O'Neill. 'The Four Seasons brand is appealing to discerning buyers in a way that current development in the region never has." "Telluride is a special town built on a strong history,' says Dev Motwani, President and CEO of Merrimac Ventures, co-developer of Four Seasons Hotel and Residences Telluride. 'This incredible destination continues to grow in popularity, yet maintains its unique charm and attracts people seeking an authentic mountain experience. The forthcoming Four Seasons meets the demand for a new, luxury residential and hospitality offering while reflecting the true spirit of the community."
Forbes
4 days ago
- Forbes
Breathtaking Bucket List Campsites Across The U.S.
Camping and hiking in Yosemite National Park is a bucket list adventure you'll never forget. Preparing for a camping adventure, no matter what the season or who tags along, doesn't have to be an arduous or burdensome undertaking. Whether you're aiming for a solo outdoor adventure, quality time with little ones, or a multigenerational romp in nature, we've got you covered with not only where to go for the best campsites across the country, but also, the details on how to lock in a coveted reservation as well as what you can expect once you arrive. The following destinations, campsites, and trails are bucket list quests for many hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. It's best to plan ahead. Camping in Yosemite National Park is an intrepid adventure. Perhaps you've dreamed of thru-hiking and you've had the Pacific Crest Trail or the John Muir Trail on your radar, however, you don't have several weeks or months that you can take out of your busy schedule for a long-distance backpacking adventure. The good news, for intrepid and fit hikers, is that you can tackle a big trek, with plenty of elevation gain, over a weekend in Yosemite National Park. Most of the popular Yosemite Valley sits within a no-camping zone, so you'll have to hit the trails and hike in at least a few miles, with thousands of feet of possible elevation gain, to reach your camping spot. Of course, this is also where the big views are! The most important thing you should know is that reservations are required for lodging, camping, and backpacking in Yosemite National Park from May 24—September 1. Choose from 13 different campgrounds and reserve your spot as soon as possible on Expect the summer months to be the most busy; if you have the time, plan to camp in the shoulder seasons. Hiking to the top of Half Dome is a bucket list adventure for many, but you'll need a permit if you want to go. Apply for a wilderness permit that includes Half Dome, which will allow you to camp in Little Yosemite Valley, or at another spot along the way. Half Dome Trail is a strenuous 14—16-mile hike, with 4,800 feet of elevation gain. Your efforts will be rewarded in spades, however, as you'll see Vernal and Nevada Falls, Liberty Cap, Half Dome, and stellar panoramic views of Yosemite Valley. Begin from either Happy Isles or Curry Village or from a nearby campground—Upper, Lower, and North Pines Campgrounds are the closest and most desired. Death Valley National Park has some of the most beautiful and remote camping spots in the entire national park system. For a multi-night adventure in the lowest, driest, hottest national park, a park that is a designated gold-tier Dark Sky Park, look no further than Death Valley National Park. You can expect to encounter rugged terrain, skies full of stars and planets, nights so quiet that they seem 'loud', and wild horses. Yes, wild horses! Given that the backcountry is so remote, with few other backpackers on the trail, it might be a good idea to enlist a professional guide. Wildland Trekking leads tours throughout this weathered landscape that straddles the border between California and Nevada. Planning well ahead to ensure your spot, choose the Death Valley Classic Backpack, which operates from January—March. This otherworldly trail in the land of extremes twists through Death Valley's backcountry for nearly 30 miles. For three nights, you'll sleep under the darkest and most beautiful skies, while listening a nearby creek. The trail requires a fair amount of bushwhacking, steep climbs, and snaking ambles through multi-hued canyons. You'll carry everything you need and nothing that you don't on your back and your own two feet will get you to the looped finish line. It's an incredibly rewarding feeling to challenge your body and your mind on this adventure. Each campsite is remote and private, giving you ample opportunity to reconnect with yourself and the world around in a peaceful, undisturbed environment. Views and diverse terrain abound in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Exposing children to the outdoors is something you'll always be proud of as a parent. A fantastic park that offers plenty of day hikes for all levels is Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Keep eyes peeled for a plethora of wildlife like black bears, over 200 different species of birds, deer, and salamanders. Permits are required for overnight backcountry stays and tags are essential for parking. Be sure to operate with Leave No Trace principles and stay bear award during the high activity months of May—August, hanging your food and smelly items on the cable system. is your go-to resource for booking camping sites in the park and nearby—choose from 30 different options. Also, it's worth noting, there are tons of family-friendly activities and fun happenings in the nearby Tennessee towns of Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville. From mini-golf to Dollywood to Anakeesta, a mountain top adventure park, there's plenty to do in the surrounding areas. Hiking opportunities abound, with trails open every month of the year. Hike Charlies Bunion, Alum Cave Bluffs, Andrews Bald Rainbow Falls, or Chimney Tops—all offering the beautiful sights and sounds of nature with waterfalls, old-growth forests, or bird's-eye mountain views. Children new to hiking will love the four-mile-roundtrip Kephart Prong Trail, which highlights the Civilian Conservation Corps' history as well as the logging industry. An easy two miles to the trail shelter, this hike has fun features like log bridges and evidence of an old fish hatchery that was built in 1936. If kids love the trails and the outdoors, they'll want to protect wild spaces for years to come.
Sustainability Times
7 days ago
- Science
- Sustainability Times
'Say Goodbye to Solar Panels': New Origami Energy Cell Generates Power Anywhere With Revolutionary Foldable Tech
IN A NUTSHELL 🌟 Sego Innovations introduces the first origami solar cell, revolutionizing renewable energy with its portable design. introduces the first origami solar cell, revolutionizing renewable energy with its portable design. 📦 Utilizing Japanese origami principles , these solar cells are foldable, compact, and adaptable for various environments. , these solar cells are foldable, compact, and adaptable for various environments. ⛺ Origami solar cells offer a reliable power source for outdoor activities and emergency scenarios , supporting first responders and affected communities. , supporting first responders and affected communities. 🔋 The technology enhances portable clean energy production, potentially impacting electric vehicles and portable electronics. Sego Innovations has taken a bold step forward in renewable energy with its groundbreaking launch of the world's first origami solar cell. This innovative design opens up exciting new possibilities for solar energy usage by allowing individuals to generate power virtually anywhere. By replacing cumbersome traditional panels with a sleek, foldable design, these origami solar cells are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and emergency personnel requiring portable energy solutions. This article delves into the intricacies of the origami solar cell invention and explores its potential benefits for the future, highlighting why this technology is poised to change the landscape of solar energy. Origami Principles Powering the Future Sego Innovations has ingeniously harnessed the art of Japanese origami to craft a solar cell that transitions seamlessly from flat to folded, much like a sheet of paper. The compact design not only makes it highly transportable but also allows it to adapt to various environments effortlessly. By expanding the solar cell's surface area when exposed to sunlight, the energy production rate experiences a significant boost. Constructed from robust, foldable materials, these cells remain fully operational even after repeated folding and unfolding, ensuring reliability and longevity. This durable design allows for easy transportation between urban rooftops and remote natural locations under varying conditions. A key advantage of origami solar cells is their portability, which stands in stark contrast to traditional solar panels that are often bulky and heavy, posing challenges for mobile applications. The ease with which these cells can be folded and unfolded enables quick deployment and optimal placement at desired angles, maximizing sunlight capture from different directions. 'China Risks $117 Billion Collapse': This Scientist's Rare-Earth-Free Super Magnet Could Wreck an Entire National Industry Transforming Travel and Disaster Response The practical applications of these foldable solar cells are vast, spanning multiple industries and sectors. In the realm of outdoor recreation, these cells offer a reliable, eco-friendly energy source for adventurers exploring the great outdoors. By integrating these cells directly into gear such as backpacks and tents, powering electronic devices becomes a breeze, enhancing the outdoor experience. In disaster scenarios, origami solar cells provide a crucial power solution. When communities face power outages due to disrupted electrical networks, these portable solar cells can be quickly deployed to support first responders and affected individuals. By supplying essential power for phone charging and medical equipment, these cells play a vital role in emergency response efforts, ensuring that help reaches those in need without delay. Living Skin for Buildings: Smart Facade in Germany Moves Like an Organism to Slash Cooling Needs and Energy Use Portability and Performance: The Future of Solar Power As awareness and adoption of origami solar cells grow, this technology is recognized as a significant leap forward in the evolution of solar power. By democratizing access to solar energy, Sego Innovations is paving the way for a shift from fossil fuels to renewable sources. The continued development of this technology promises to yield innovative solutions and enhance energy output, thus benefiting emergency response teams and speeding up recovery processes. The potential of origami solar cells to bolster renewable energy production is immense. As global adoption increases, the environment stands to gain from reduced pollution and strides toward improved sustainability. The portability of clean energy production could lead to advancements in electric vehicles and portable electronics, ushering in a new era of technological innovation. By abandoning traditional panels, the origami solar cell signifies a new phase in mobile renewable energy solutions, with promising implications for the future. Japan Stuns the World with 310,000-Ton Oil Behemoth That Shatters Records and Reinvents the Future of Energy Transport Revolutionizing Energy Production Sego Innovations' origami solar cells represent an advanced energy solution, epitomizing the future of portable power design. With their unique structure, these cells are set to revolutionize energy production across various domains. The enhanced ease of powering electronic devices in outdoor settings, coupled with the mobility these cells offer, makes them a game-changer in the realm of renewable energy. The shift from conventional solar panels to origami solar cells heralds a new era in sustainable energy production. As these innovative cells become more commonplace, they promise to reshape how we harness solar power across diverse applications. The question remains: how will this transformative technology continue to evolve and impact our approach to energy consumption in the years to come? Our author used artificial intelligence to enhance this article. Did you like it? 4.7/5 (28)
Daily Mail
19-05-2025
- Health
- Daily Mail
Doctors issue warning over blood-sucking parasites as US hospitalizations double
Doctors are warning people to be on the lookout for a parasite that is becoming increasingly more prevalent across the US. Cases of Lyme disease are on the rise across America, putting millions of hiking and outdoor enthusiasts at risk as temperatures heat up and people find themselves outside more. One state in particular is experiencing a dramatic rise. New Jersey recorded more than double the number of Lyme disease cases in 2024 as it did in 2020 - 7,200 compared to 3,110. And so far this year, the state health department has reported 1,517 cases of tick-borne illnesses and 349 tick-related emergency room visits from January 1 to May 8. This is an increase from 288 hospital visits during the same time last year. A person contracts Lyme disease from the bite of an infected black-legged tick, also called the deer tick, which is a common species in the Northeast and Midwest. Lyme disease signs usually begin with the hallmark 'bullseye' rash that has red rings around the original bite site. If left untreated people may experience flu-like symptoms like a headache, muscle pains and aches and fatigue. Severe untreated cases of Lyme disease can cause facial paralysis, vision changes and issues with memory and concentration. The illness is easier to treat when caught early and doctors typically prescribe a 28-day regimen of antibiotics. However, because of the non-specific symptoms of Lyme disease, many cases can go undiagnosed or misdiagnosed for years. Generally, ticks must be attached to a person for at least 24 hours in order to transmit the infection. Performing tick checks after possible exposure is vital to quickly identify if you've been bitten and to remove the parasite. Deer ticks are common in northeastern and midwestern states, such as Connecticut, New York, Minnesota and Wisconsin. The CDC, which has Lyme disease data through 2023, shows New Jersey had the fourth-highest number of Lyme disease cases that year, falling behind New York, Pennsylvania and Massachusetts. It recorded 7,224 cases. New York saw 22,170 cases; Pennsylvania reported 16,670; and Massachusetts reported 9,715. Overall, the US is seeing a record number of Lyme disease cases - recording 89,470 cases in 2023. The disease area is also expanding. Recent testing on human and tick samples suggests millions more Americans could be at risk because the tick that causes Lyme disease is spreading to new geographical areas. Experts don't know exactly why the tick is traveling, but some posit it is due to development or climate change, and cases could be on the rise because of increased education and awareness surrounding ticks and Lyme disease. To avoid Lyme disease, it is important to wear long sleeves and long pants to prevent ticks from being able to attach themselves to your skin and perform thorough tick checks after spending time in the outdoors. You can also wear repellant and treat clothing with acaricides, special pesticides used to kill ticks and mites. Ticks can also infect animals, so it is important to check pets for the parasites or signs of a bite and give them preventatives. If you do find a tick, use tweezers to remove it and save it so it can be identified.
