We enjoy seeing a variety of natural wonders as we travel to different parts of the world. It is often the case that these unique features are associated to the forces that are constantly changing the landscape, but often take thousands of years to create. We have many interesting geological formations right near where we live as well as those that we’ve seen during our travels. Obviously this is just a sampling of the different features that we have seen, but we find the varieties as well as similarities to be quite interesting. What is the most unique geological feature that you have seen during your travels?
Moon Valley in La Paz, BoliviaHalong Bay in VietnamWestfjords Glacier in IcelandView of Delicate Arch in UtahGarden of the Gods in Colorado SpringsFascinating Ceiling of a CaveThe Arch at Cabo San Lucas in MexicoMammoth Hot Springs in Yellowstone National Park in WyomingQuilotoa Volcanic Crater in EcuadorGrand Prismatic Lake in Yellowstone National ParkPaint Mines Interpretive Park near Colorado SpringsRock of GibraltarLava Rock Formations at Lóndrangar in IcelandFormations and Ceiling in a Cave in Vietnam
Here in Colorado, it is not uncommon to find home sites from some of the original settlers being semi-preserved on the lands of state and national parks. Not only are these cabins and ruins fascinating to see, but they are a reminder as to the harshness of nature and how difficult life must have been for those early adventurers. It is hard to imagine what life must have been like living without heat in a wooden cabin deep in the woods with wolves, bears, coyotes, and other animals all around. On a bright, sunny day, it becomes clear why someone would want to brave the elements in order to live in such a beautiful place. It must have been truly special to walk out of your front door every day and see the glory of nature. We have put together a collection of different wooden cabins that we have encountered during our various hikes in the Colorado mountains.
Looking Up at a Cabin on the TrailRoof CollapsingInside of a CabinCabin in Beaver CreekJust the Wooden Logs RemainingSnow Covered RoofPerhaps Still in UseNear Cripple CreekNot Safe to Enter
Located on the banks of the James River in Virginia is the Jamestown Settlement, which was first permanent English colony in America. The first colonists arrived in 1607 where they lived and worked to establish a foothold on the continent. Today, the Jamestown Settlement provides visitors the opportunity to climb onboard replicas of the ships that brought the settlers on the arduous journey across the Atlantic Ocean, participate in reenactments, and see the archeological efforts that are still ongoing today.
Participating in ReenactmentsYou Can Ask Questions at the Exhibits
It is a great place to learn about the history of the people who ventured to the “New World” and the difficulties that they faced. The Jamestown Settlement is located near Williamsburg, Virginia and combining a visit to both locations is a great way to follow the history of the people who went from a rustic settlement with wooden buildings to the first capital city of Virginia with its mansions and cobblestone streets.
Demonstrating Firing a RifleYou Can Climb Onboard the Ship Replicas
There are obviously plenty of restaurants, shops, and places to stay in the area. We visited many years ago at this point, when our children were old enough to appreciate the significance of the Jamestown Settlement. All these years later, it is still a location that they remember seeing and enjoying their experiences there. Admission is only $10 for anyone older than 16 and those under 16 are free, making this an easily affordable adventure for the whole family.
Making Bullets to Protect the Settlement Learning to Fire a Cannon
