Seven Natural Wonders of North America
The Grand Canyon
The Grand Canyon has historically been recognized as the largest canyon in the world. As one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, the Grand Canyon is honored to serve as the Ambassador to North America’s Seven Wonders of Nature. Congratulations to each of these deservedly recognized natural wonders of North America.
On February 28, 2014, the Seven Natural Wonders of North America were officially declared in Irving, Texas. These wonders of nature were determined by insights from experts from around the world with a key focus on conservationists such as members of the International Union for the Conservation of Nature.
rand Canyon
Grand Canyon Quick Facts
- The canyon is 277 miles (446 km) long
- The width ranges from 4 to 18 miles (6.4 to 29 km)
- The depth is over one mile (1.83 km)
- Majority is housed within Grand Canyon National Park
Grand Canyon
The Grand Canyon is a massive gorge located in the state of Arizona in the United States, and was created by the Colorado River. Although not the steepest nor the longest canyon in the world, the Grand Canyon is recognized as a natural wonder because of the overall scale and size combined with the beautifully colored landscape. The canyon offers a variety of lookouts and experiences that provide visitors with a view that cannot be matched.
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Best Ways to See the Grand Canyon
Many spectacular views of the Grand Canyon can be experienced from the many vistas that are presented throughout the park, particularly along the South Rim. However, probably the most spectacular view of the canyon occurs from the Toroweap Overlook. The only challenge is that this view is only accessible by three different dirt paths:
- St. George, Utah (97 miles)
- Colorado City (62 miles)
- Pipe Spring National Monument (64 miles)
An easier alternative to a still breath taking view can be experienced through Lipan Point on the South Rim. This view exposes visitors to a variety of rock strata and delivers an amazing view of the Unkar Creek area.
A helicopter tour is the best way to truly appreciate the vastness of the canyon. Getting up and the air and having a bird’s eye view of the canyon allows you to view the canyon in its entirety. You can fly over in a plane, however a helicopter is a slower and more intimate encounter with the canyon.
Best Ways to Experience the Grand Canyon
Visiting the Grand Canyon is an experience in and of itself, however there are more adventurous ways to experience the canyon and take in the grandeur of this natural wonder. The canyon can be explored on foot through traditional hikes, day hikes, or extended backpacking trips. It is important to note that all overnight camping below the rim requires a back country permit.
Another common and worthy experience is exploring the canyon on the back of a mule. This provides a unique experience of the canyon while allowing the mule to carry the load. The floor of the canyon can also be explored by taking a white water rafting trip. There are a variety of trips offered depending on the type of experience someone is seeking and their rafting skill level.
Best Times to Explore the Grand Canyon
The best times to explore the Grand Canyon could easily be debated. Winter scenes are arguably some of the most spectacular scenes, however the winter months close the roads to the North Rim which really provide the better views of the vastness of canyon.
With that said, the best time to explore the Grand Canyon is during the summer months which provide visitors with greater access to a variety of opportunities that the Grand Canyon provides to explorers. If you really want to explore the Grand Canyon, don’t plan a day trip. One could easily consume a week discovering and exploring the canyon.
Grand Canyon Weather
The weather of the Grand Canyon varies with seasons. The South Rim usually maintains higher temperatures as compared to the North Rim due to its higher elevations. Although the general conditions of the canyon area are arid, the onset of winter and the late summer months deliver heavy rains for both the North and South Rims. The later summer month rains are often accompanied by dramatic thunderstorms, which presented in the context of the canyon, can be declared a wonder themselves.- South Rim Rainfall 16 inches (35 cm)
- North Rim Rainfall 27 inches (59cm)
- Snowfall 60 inches ( 132 cm) 144 inches (317 cm)
Inner gorge temperatures during the summer months are easily in the area of 100 F (37.8 C) and falling below 0 F (-17.8 C) during the winter months.
Grand Canyon Photography Tips
Capturing the wonder and beauty of the Grand Canyon truly requires multiple trips during different seasons and varying locations. Sunsets, snow caps, and even thunderstorms take on completely new amazement when captured with the breathtaking background of the Grand Canyon.
Grand Canyon Travel Tips
The first, and maybe most important, tip is to make your reservations early. There are over 5 million visitors to the Grand Canyon every year and making reservations early is one of the best ways to make sure you get access to the adventure and exploration that you desire.
Endangered Species
There are 100s of critically endangered species on every continent around the world. The wildlife, fauna and flora are much of what makes the wonders of nature special. Endangered Species is one of Seven Natural Wonder’s greatest concerns. Take a moment and glance at some of the critically endangered wildlife
Bay of Fundy
The Bay of Fundy is a large bay on the Atlantic coast of North America. The name is believed to come from the French word “Fendu” which translate split. Although there are competitive tidal range locations, the Bay of Fundy holds the record. In most cases it is a statistical tie between the Bay of Fundy and Ungava Bay, however the highest peak at one given point was recorded at Bay of Fundy.
Bay of Fundy Quick Facts:
- Highest tidal range in the world
- Typical tidal range is around 55 feet
- Two tidal highs and lows a day
- Located between New Brunswick and Nova Scotia
- 115 billion tons of water flow in & out daily
Bay of Fundy
The Bay of Fundy is a large bay on the Atlantic coast of North America. The name is believed to come from the French word “Fendu” which translates split. Although there are competitive tidal range locations, the Bay of Fundy holds the record, with the highest peak at one given point recorded at Bay of Fundy.
As noted there are tidal range locations that compare to the Bay of Fundy. Matter of fact, n most cases it is a statistical tie between the Bay of Fundy and Ungava Bay. As noted above the record moment goes to the Bay of Fundy, and collectively it has the largest tidal difference in the world.
During a 12 hour tidal period, the Bay of Fundy will have 115 billion tons of water flow in and out of the bay.
Where is the Bay of Fundy
The Bay of Fundy is located along the northeast coast with most of it aligning with the Canadian provinces of New Brunswick and Nova Scotia. The bay lies in a rift valley called the Fundy Basin. and the peak of the tidal waves occur at Burntcoat Head
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Bay of Fundy – Canada Wonders of Nature
You can also vote for the Bay of Fundy and/or other wonders in the or the Seven Natural Wonders of Canada campaign.
Bay of Fundy Tides
The Bay of Fundy tides are recognized as the greatest tidal range in the world. The tidal range is measured by the Canadian Hydrographic Service at 55.8 feet (17 m). The highest point ever recorded was 70.9 feet (21.6 m). This occurred in 1869 following a tropical cyclone and subsequent water surge.
The tides of the Bay of Fundy are known as semidiurnal. This means that during a 24 hour period, there will be two highs and two lows. This happens every day. The time between each high and each low is around 6 hours.
As noted above, during a 24 hour day the high and low tides will occur twice. Over this same period, there will be over 115 billion tons of water flowing in and out of the bay.
Everglades National Park
The everglades are actually a slow moving system of rivers moving at about .25 miles (.40 km) a day. The everglades are the largest subtropical wilderness found in the United States and the park encompasses 1,509,000 acres (6,110 sq km). The Everglades National Park differs from other national parks because it was established to protect the ecosystem versus some geographic feature or significance.
Everglade Quick Facts:
- Largest subtropical wilderness in the United States
- Home to 36 different threatened species
- A wildlife haven with more than 40 species of mammals, 50 species of reptiles, 300 species of fish, and 350 species of birds
- Declarations include an International Biosphere Reserve, a World Heritage Site, and a Wetland of International Importance
- Encompasses 1,509,000 acres (6,110 sq km) of the marshlands in southern Florida
Everglades
The everglades are actually a slow moving system of rivers moving at about .25 miles (.40 km) a day. The everglades represent the largest subtropical wilderness found in North America and the park encompasses 1,509,000 acres (6,110 sq km).
The Everglades National Park differs from other national parks because it was established to protect the ecosystem versus some geographic feature or significance. It is also considered as one of the United States natural wonders. Vote Now for the Seven Natural Wonders of the United States
The Everglades National Park has also been declared a Wetland of International Importance, a World Heritage Site, and an International Biosphere Reserve. The national park only accounts for 25% of the original marshland region. The Everglades are home to over 40 species of mammals, 50 species of reptiles, 300 species of fish, and 350 species of birds. The everglades are home to both fresh and saltwater marine life.
Most any land within the park comes from hammocks that are elevated several inches above the grassy slow forming river. The slow moving water allows the hammocks to develop and create a foundation for the large live oaks that create canopies where wildlife thrives.
Best way to see and experience the Everglades
More will follow on the Everglades National Park as it is declared an official or notable wonder North America.
Mount McKinley
Mount McKinley, also known as “The Great One” or Denali, is the highest peak on any mountain in North America. The rise in elevation from the base to the peak is significantly greater than Mount Everest. The Everest base starts out on the Tibetan Plateau which sits at an elevation of 17,000 feet (5,200 m) which means that the vertical rise is approximately 12,000 feet (3,700 m). The base of Mount McKinley starts out at approximately 2,000 feet (610 m) plateau which means that the vertical rise is approximately 18,000 feet (5,500 m).
Denali
Denali Quick Facts:
- The highest mountain peak in North America
- Formerly known as Mount McKinley
- The peak reaches 20,320 feet (6,194 m) into the sky
- The base to peak is a higher rise in elevation than Mount Everest and is the greatest rise from any land based mountain
Denali
Denali, formerly known as Mount Mckinley and also called “The Great One,” is the highest peak throughout North America. The rise in elevation from the base to the peak is greater than Mount Everest. Discover what makes Denali one of the Seven Natural Wonders of North America.
The Everest base starts out on the Tibetan Plateau which sits at an elevation of 17,000 feet (5,200 m) which means that the vertical rise is approximately 12,000 feet (3,700 m). The base of Mount McKinley starts out at approximately 2,000 feet (610 m) plateau which means that the vertical rise is approximately 18,000 feet (5,500 m).
Where is Denali located
Denali is located just south of the central point in Alaska. It is found towards the center of Denali National Park. The national park is about a 5 hour drive north from Anchorage.
The coordinates of the mountain are 63 04’10″N and 151 00’27” W
Best way to see and experience Denali
Denali is the prominent attraction of Denali National Park. The primary way to see and experience this majestic wonder of nature is through the national park bus service. There are no cars allowed in Denali National Park.
Visitors catch one of several buses that traverse the park making their way to the various lookouts along the 92 mile road. Eilson visitor center is one of the key destinations within the park to view Denali. This is actually located at mile 66.
Additional viewing spots include on the park road include Primrose Ridge (mile 16), Sony Hill Overlook (mile 62) and Wonder Lake (mile 85). Visitors can also capture views of Denali in the Talkeetna area stopping at the McKinley View pullout, Talkeetna Riverfront Park, and the deck of the Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge.
The Mount McKinley Princess Lodge also provides views of Denali from the lodge. True adventures are going to get out of the bus and trek and hike the wilderness of Denali national park. Permits are needed for backcountry hikes and camping.
Visitors can also take scenic flights around the park capturing views of the splendor of the area along with views of Denali itself. The challenge with seeing Denali is always related to cloud coverage. Clouds encase the mountain more times than not and views of the mountain are pure random blessings.
Best time to visit Denali
The summer months are of mid June through August are the best time to explore Denali. The temperatures, which can still be rather chilly, are at their warmest. The salmon are returning, which brings out the bears for feeding. The wildlife is most abundant during these months.
An alternate time to visit is early to mid-September. Fall is setting in and the red and yellow colors blanketing the fields and wilderness area are spectacular. Less wildlife, which is beginning to migrate out of the area, but still amazing.
Denali Travel Tips
Gettingn to Denali is half the fun. The majority of travelers will find themselves in Anchorage whether by cruise or by plane. The next step is getting to Denali. The most scenic and adventurous way to do that is through then Alaskan Railroad. This is a must experience for those who want to truly take in all that Alaska and Denali have to offer.
More is coming on Denali Travel tips. If you are a travel professional and familiar with Alaska and Denali, you are invited to contact Seven Natural Wonders and share you insights and travel tips.
Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls is an incredible waterfall system located on the border between Ontario, Canada and New York of the United States. Niagara Falls is comprised of three distinctive falls that include: Horseshoe Falls on the Canadian side and American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls on the American side. The Horseshoe Falls are 2,600 feet ( 792 m) wide with the American Falls measuring 1,060 feet (323 m) wide. The highest drop occurs on Horseshoe Falls at 173 feet (53 m).
Niagara Falls
Niagara Quick Facts:
- Six million cubic feet (168,000 cubic meters) of water flow over the crest every minute during high flow
- Average of four million cubic feet (110,00 cubic meters
- Located between twin cities of Niagara Falls, New York and Niagara Falls, Ontario.
Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls is an incredible waterfall system located on the border between Ontario, Canada and New York, USA. Niagara Falls is comprised of three distinctive falls including: Horseshoe Falls on the Canadian side and American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls on the American side.
The Horseshoe Falls are 2,600 feet ( 792 m) wide with the American Falls measuring 1,060 feet (323 m) wide. The highest drop occurs on Horseshoe Falls at 173 feet (53 m).
Niagara Falls has an average of approximately 4 million cubic feet (110,000 cubic meters) of water every minute with heavy flow reaching as much as 6 million cubic feet (168,000 cubic meters) every minute. Horseshoe Falls accounts for approximately 90% of the water volume. The water is supplied by the Niagara River.
Winner Announcement
Be one of the first to know who the winners are for the new 7 wonders of nature. Announced on the Travel Tracker first before any other place. Fun travel app with a whole variety of bucket list ideas even if you are not tracking the natural wonders.
Niagara Falls – Other Voting
Niagara Falls is also a candidate as one of the key wonders of nature in two additional campaigns. You are welcome to vote for Niagara Falls in the 7 Natural Wonders of the United States or the 7 Natural Wonders of Canada campaigns.
Best way to see and experience Niagara Falls
More will follow on Niagara Falls as it is declared an official or notable wonder of North America.
Redwood National Forest
Redwood National Forest is comprised of the official Redwood National Park and Redwood State Park and located in northern California. Although the Redwood forest once exceeded two million acres (8,100 sq km), mining and logging has reduced the forest down to the current protected areas which cover a collective area of 131,983 acres (534.12 sq km). The Redwood forest runs along 37 miles (60 km) of the northern California coastline.
Redwoods Quick Facts:
- Tallest trees in the world
- Covers approximately 131,983 acres (534.12 sq km)
- Follows and protects 37 miles of the coastline
Redwoods and Sequoias
As one of the Seven Natural Wonders, the Redwoods represents the collection of Redwoods found in Redwoods National Park and Sequia National Park located in northern California. Collectively they represent the tallest and largest trees (based on volume) in the world.
Although the Redwood forest once exceeded two million acres (8,100 sq km), mining and logging has reduced the forest down to the current protected areas which cover a collective area of 131,983 acres (534.12 sq km). The Redwood forest runs along 37 miles (60 km) of the northern California coastline.
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p>The Redwood, Sequoia sempervirens, are the tallest trees in the world. Apart from the grandeur of the trees, the Redwood National Forest also provides protection to several threatened species that include: Northern Spotted Owl, Brown Pelican, Tidewater Goby, Bald Eagle, Steller’s Sea Lion, and the Chinook Salmon.
Best way to see and experience the Redwoods Forest
More will follow on the Redwoods National Forest as it is declared an official or notable wonder of North America.
Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park became the first national park in 1872 when congress set the park boundaries aside as a wonder of nature. The geothermal features, waterfalls, varying ecosystems, and wildlife combine to create a phenomenal encounter with nature. The park is primarily located in the state of Wyoming in the United States.
Yosemite National Park
Yosemite National Park is a national park located in the state of California in the United States. The park encompasses 1,189 square miles (3.081 sq km) of pristine wilderness. The park has tremendous features that include mountains, waterfalls, valleys, rivers and wildlife.
Yosemite Quick Facts:
- National park located in the state of California
- Encompasses 1,189 square miles (3,081 sq km)
- An elevation range from 2,000 to 13,114 feet (600 to 4,000 m)
- Five different vegetation zones that include: lower montane, chaparral/oak woodlands, upper montane, subalpine, and alpine.
Yosemite National Park
Yosemite National Park is a national park located in the state of California in the United States. The park encompasses 1,189 square miles (3.081 sq km) of pristine wilderness. The park has tremendous features that include mountains, waterfalls, valleys, rivers and wildlife.
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The park elevation ranges from 2,000 to 13,114 feet (600 to 4,000 m) with the peak of Mount Lyell being the highest point. Probably the most notable feature is the mountain Half Dome which rises 4,737 feet ( 1,444m) above the valley floor reaching a peak of 8,842 feet (2,695 m).
There are 1,600 miles (2,600 km) of streams and rivers. The Yosemite National Park features beautiful mountain ranges, spectacular waterfalls, peaceful valleys, and plenty of wildlife.
Best way to see and experience Yosemite National Park
More will follow on Yosemite National Park as it is declared an official or notable wonder of North America
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