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THE GYPSUM DUNES OF WHITE SANDS NATIONAL MONUMENT
White Sands National Monument, New Mexico
Within the White Sands Missile Range of New Mexico lies a natural wonder more magical than any other place on earth. This is White Sands National Monument, the largest gypsum dunefield in the world. The ever-changing landscape is the perfect place for adults and children alike.
Imagine white gypsum sand dunes as far as the eye can see, surrounded by gorgeous mountain ranges. Upon entering, prepare to become a kid again. Sledding down the gypsum dunes is one of the most popular things to do while visiting the monument. The Visitor Center offers sleds for sale and also buys them back for others to reuse. Other activities include ranger-guided hikes, sunrise photography walks, full moon bike rides, and a variety of educational lectures about the history, wildlife and geology of the monument.
If you are looking for solitude, this is also the perfect place to meditate and to enjoy the beauty of nature. There is something for everyone, and if you get lucky, you might even see a rainbow or two in the distance, which is a beautiful vibrant contrast to the monotoned dunes. Another spectacular annual event held in the monument is the White Sands Balloon Invitational. This year the event will take place Sept. 17-1, which is a great time of year to visit New Mexico.
Temperatures in the summer are very high. Bring plenty of water and stay hydrated while visiting during the summer months. For the safety of the visitors, the park is closed when missiles are being tested in the surrounding area. You can call a couple of days before arriving for information on missile testing, park closures and Interstate closures.
White Sands National Monument is the perfect place to spend the day if you are road tripping through the Southwest. Kick off your shoes and feel the cool sand in your toes, you will not regret it!
— Vanessa Velazquez, Military Times Contributor
Four Adventures Found Only in Alaska
Photo Credit: Waypoint post by Erica Garvin
FOUR ADVENTURES FOUND ONLY IN ALASKA
Fort Wainwright, Alaska
Thanks to the military, I've had the pleasure of living in Alaska for the last two years. During this time I've traveled from Fairbanks to Anchorage, and everywhere in between. Of all the things I've been able to do during our rotation in Alaska, here are the must-see places while in Alaska.
1. Denali National Park: The third-largest national park in the United States, this park offers amazing mountain views and great walking trails through the countryside. This is a place that the entire family will enjoy as you look up into the mountains and along rivers, spotting moose, mountain sheep, and sometimes even bears. Military families have free access to the first 15 miles of the park. Three hours from both Fairbanks and Anchorage, this halfway point is a must-see destination during your time in Alaska.
2. Chena Hot Springs: One hour from Fairbanks, take Chena Hot Springs road through beautiful rolling hills and alongside mountain ranges. The road trip to the springs is breathtaking as you pass rivers, towering trees, and lakes. Don't be surprised when you spot a moose or two during the drive. $15 is all it costs for a day pass to the outdoor springs, available year round. The day pass also includes access to the indoor heated pool, hot tubs and locker rooms with showers. This is a perfect family destination that will have you feeling relaxed by the time you leave.
3. Seward Highway: Heading south out of Anchorage is the Seward Highway, a 125-mile road between the two towns. The most scenic road in all of Alaska, running along the sea, creating a beautiful view of the mountains as they reflect off the water. Mountain water runs freely down the rocky walls, giving travelers an opportunity to stop and fill their water bottles with fresh mountain water. Even if you only spend an hour driving this road, it will become your most beautiful memory of Alaska.
4. Valdez: Want to know where is the prime fishing spot for salmon? Look no further than Valdez. An eight-hour drive from Fairbanks, the MWR has a campground in this location, making it the best place to camp in Alaska for military families. But beware of bears! They are looking to catch salmon during August.
— Erica Garvin
Explore Israel: A Small Country With a Little Something for Everybody
Photo Credit: Waypoint post by Robert Lancaster
EXPLORE ISRAEL: A SMALL COUNTRY WITH A LITTLE SOMETHING FOR EVERYBODY
Israel
Yes, your S2 is gonna give you a long list of do's and don'ts for this one, but it's worth it. In Israel you will find a vibrant culture, a blend of East and West spiced with a bit of chutzpah. Despite its small size, Israel has a bit of everything.
If you're looking for a Vegas-like experience with gorgeous beaches and coral reef snorkeling, head south to Eilat. For wild nightlife (and more beaches), look no further than the city that never sleeps, Tel Aviv. In the Galilee, the cities of Tsfat, Nazareth and Tiberias offer amazing hiking opportunities and sites of historical, religious and/or cultural significance.
Of course, no Israel tour is complete without a visit to Jerusalem, the heart of the land. Check out the Israel Museum, the Mahane Yehuda Shuk (open air market) and the Old City, and see the holy sites of three of the world's major religions.
If hiking is your thing, Israel has kilometers of beautiful trails on widely varying terrain, from the deserts of the south through the lush Galilee and to the mountainous Golan. There are trails available for all skill levels, from family-friendly day trips to multi-day backpacking excursions. One can also hire guides and camels for excursions into the Negev desert.
There are few places better suited for exploring the wonders of the ancient world, with a plethora of archaeological sites to visit. You'll find remains dating from the Neolithic period to modernity and from everything in between. As an ancient crossroads and trade route, Israel has been a battleground for many empires, including Egypt, Assyria, Babylon, Persia, Rome and many others. All have left their mark on the land.
You can join any of a number of tours, hire a guide or just set off on your own. If traveling on your own (the advanced option), the public transit system can take you to most of the major sites in the country.
A few popular sites (in no particular order):
- The Dead Sea: So salty you can float without trying.
- Masada: Ancient Jewish fortress.
- Caesarea Maritima: Roman port city.
- Nahal Amud & Har Meron: Stunning hike through river valley and up a mountain.
- Ein Gedi: Oasis in the Negev desert.
- The Bahai Gardens: Center of the Bahai faith, located in Haifa.
- So much more!
If traveling without a guide, do be aware of the security situation. Stay alert, stay alive.
— Robert Lancaster
Charlsy is a Reporter and Engagement Manager for Military Times. Email her at cpanzino@militarytimes.com.
