Où voir un condor de Californie en Californie ou Arizona?
by Sylessonne
This discussion is in French, the community’s main language.
Original post
Dans quel endroit de Californie ou d'Arizona puis je voir "facilement" un condor de Californie en liberté ( pas en zoo 😕 ) ? Y a t il des lieux privilégiés comme au Pérou ?
la nature est un professeur universel et sûr pour celui qui l'observe
Selon wikipedia (anglais), il n'y a que 180 condors sauvages vivants. 2 reserves existent en Californie, San Rafael Wilderness, qui est entoure par l'autre reserve, Los Padres National Forest. Les deux sont aux montagnes un peu a l'est de Big Sur et Santa Barbara. Ce sont des terrains enormes (7890 km²), donc s'il n'y a que 180 condors...bonne chance.
http://en.wikipedia.org/...an_Rafael_Wilderness http://en.wikipedia.org/...dres_National_Forest
Un autre document peut-etre utile. Selon ce document, on a libere 25 condors a Pinnacles National Monument (un joli parc a l'est de Monterey; j'y etais il y a 10 ans, mais je ne cherais pas des condors). 64 condors ont ete libere a Vermillion Cliffs, tout pres de Page en Arizona.
http://www.nps.gov/pinn/naturescience/upload/CondorMonthlyStats_2010_02_28.pdf
http://en.wikipedia.org/...an_Rafael_Wilderness http://en.wikipedia.org/...dres_National_Forest
Un autre document peut-etre utile. Selon ce document, on a libere 25 condors a Pinnacles National Monument (un joli parc a l'est de Monterey; j'y etais il y a 10 ans, mais je ne cherais pas des condors). 64 condors ont ete libere a Vermillion Cliffs, tout pres de Page en Arizona.
http://www.nps.gov/pinn/naturescience/upload/CondorMonthlyStats_2010_02_28.pdf
Un autre endroit de réintroduction le Grand Canyon : http://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Condor_de_Californie , http://www.nps.gov/grca/naturescience/condor-re-introduction.htm
Il arrive que l'on en voit entre Kolb Studio et Maricopa Point nous avait dit un Ranger en 2000, mais pas de chance.
Histoire de la réintroduction [élevage en captivité a débuté par le prélèvement dans la nature de l'œuf issu de la première ponte de condors sauvages. En 1983, le premier poussin, né en captivité, éclot d'un œuf pondu dans la nature, après incubation artificielle au zoo de San Diego. Dans le but de sauver le condor de Californie, la décision fut prise en 1985 de capturer tous les individus quand la population sauvage tomba à 9 condors. Le dernier condor volant en liberté fut capturé en 1987. Le premier poussin conçu en captivité éclot en 1988 au Wild Animal Park de San Diego. En 1992, les premiers condors élevés en captivité furent réintroduits dans la nature en Californie, alors que la population captive s'élevait à 52 individus. [4] Six oiseaux ont été réintroduits dans le Grand Canyon en 1996[3]. On en compte aujourd'hui 60 dans tout l'État d'Arizona[3]. 17 Condors ont été réintroduits dans la zone de Big Sur (zone montagneuse littorale de 150 km de long sur la Caldeira de Californie), dans une zone sauvage, pauvre en sources de pollution et peu fréquentée par les chasseurs et donc a priori parmi les moins contaminées en plombs (grenaille) de chasse. Ils sont contrôlés tous les 6 mois. Ils avaient au début de l’expérience des plombémies plus basses que la moyenne et qu’ailleurs. Pourtant, fin 2002, l’un des 17 condors de Californie réintroduit par la Ventana Wilderness Society a dû être soigné pour saturnisme aigu et 7 de ses compagnons (sur 9 analysés) présentaient des plombémies caractéristiques d'un saturnisme chronique, mais permettant toutefois selon les vétérinaires qu’on les relâche dans la zone de réintroduction.
Patrick
Il arrive que l'on en voit entre Kolb Studio et Maricopa Point nous avait dit un Ranger en 2000, mais pas de chance.
Histoire de la réintroduction [élevage en captivité a débuté par le prélèvement dans la nature de l'œuf issu de la première ponte de condors sauvages. En 1983, le premier poussin, né en captivité, éclot d'un œuf pondu dans la nature, après incubation artificielle au zoo de San Diego. Dans le but de sauver le condor de Californie, la décision fut prise en 1985 de capturer tous les individus quand la population sauvage tomba à 9 condors. Le dernier condor volant en liberté fut capturé en 1987. Le premier poussin conçu en captivité éclot en 1988 au Wild Animal Park de San Diego. En 1992, les premiers condors élevés en captivité furent réintroduits dans la nature en Californie, alors que la population captive s'élevait à 52 individus. [4] Six oiseaux ont été réintroduits dans le Grand Canyon en 1996[3]. On en compte aujourd'hui 60 dans tout l'État d'Arizona[3]. 17 Condors ont été réintroduits dans la zone de Big Sur (zone montagneuse littorale de 150 km de long sur la Caldeira de Californie), dans une zone sauvage, pauvre en sources de pollution et peu fréquentée par les chasseurs et donc a priori parmi les moins contaminées en plombs (grenaille) de chasse. Ils sont contrôlés tous les 6 mois. Ils avaient au début de l’expérience des plombémies plus basses que la moyenne et qu’ailleurs. Pourtant, fin 2002, l’un des 17 condors de Californie réintroduit par la Ventana Wilderness Society a dû être soigné pour saturnisme aigu et 7 de ses compagnons (sur 9 analysés) présentaient des plombémies caractéristiques d'un saturnisme chronique, mais permettant toutefois selon les vétérinaires qu’on les relâche dans la zone de réintroduction.
Patrick
On ne vit qu'une fois !
Mes USA 1998 2000 ... : http://sites.google.com/site/heavencanwaitno/
USA 2008 : http://sites.google.com/site/heavencanwaitno/home/usa-2008
USA 2011 : http://sites.google.com/site/heavencanwaitno/home/usa-2011
Bonjour
Effectivement, je confirme l'info de Patrick. Nous les avons vus tournoyer entre Bright Angel Lodge et l'hôtel El Tovar peu après le lever de soleil. Ils sont bagués et numérotés ( courses underground?) . C' est très impressionnant; malgré le vol circulaire lent, profitant des courants, pas facile de les photographier.
Bon voyage
Alain
Effectivement, je confirme l'info de Patrick. Nous les avons vus tournoyer entre Bright Angel Lodge et l'hôtel El Tovar peu après le lever de soleil. Ils sont bagués et numérotés ( courses underground?) . C' est très impressionnant; malgré le vol circulaire lent, profitant des courants, pas facile de les photographier.
Bon voyage
Alain
Bonsoir,
Comme dit Caribou... nous en avons vu en faisant Hermits Rest à GC, trajet sur la corniche de Hopi à Mohave (super) avec les bestioles tournoyant au dessus (voir PJ).
à + Jean.
Comme dit Caribou... nous en avons vu en faisant Hermits Rest à GC, trajet sur la corniche de Hopi à Mohave (super) avec les bestioles tournoyant au dessus (voir PJ).
à + Jean.
4 fois en Camping-car: Parcs US - NewMex - Yellowst - Louisiane.
http://blogs.crespel.me/usa2009/ http://blogs.crespel.me/usa2011/
http://blogs.crespel.me/usa2012/ http://blogs.crespel.me/usa2013/
Andalousie, Bretagne, Corse, Provence, Sicile, Toscane, villes d'Italie.
sur : http://blogs.crespel.me/
les photos sont superbes!
Une amie qui reside a Morro Bay (au sud de Big Sur) depuis 20 ans et qui fait des randonnees tout le temps m'a dit qu'elle ne voyait un condor qu'une fois.
Une amie qui reside a Morro Bay (au sud de Big Sur) depuis 20 ans et qui fait des randonnees tout le temps m'a dit qu'elle ne voyait un condor qu'une fois.
Nous avons eu le plaisir d'admirer un condor sur le site "Navajo Bridge" au dessus du Colorado en Arizona, en mai 2009 lors de notre voyage dans l'Ouest américain.
Il était bagué à l'aile et portait le n° 52.
Il a bien "posé" et nous a permis de faire quelques photographies.
Bonne chance afin d'admier le vol somptueux de ce rapace.
Il était bagué à l'aile et portait le n° 52.
Il a bien "posé" et nous a permis de faire quelques photographies.
Bonne chance afin d'admier le vol somptueux de ce rapace.
Myrtille
Bonjour,
On en a vu un sur le parking de Wire Pass (limite Arizona - Utah), bagué et blessé.
Pascale
On en a vu un sur le parking de Wire Pass (limite Arizona - Utah), bagué et blessé.
Pascale
Hi !
Désolé de te faire de la peine mais sur ta photo ce n'est pas un condor de californie.
Compare avec les photos des collegues, ce ne sont pas les couleurs du condor, il n'a pas les plumes en "doigts" au bout des ailes caracreristique des condors et enfin il n'a pas l'autre caracteristique des condors à savoir un gros numéro sur les ailes.
Bel oiseau quand même, peut-être un aigle.
Bye, marc.
L'intelligence c'est comme les parachutes.Quand on en a pas..........on s'écrase.
Bonjour,
Comme le dit sf94133calif (pas simple, comme pseudo! 😉), ce n'est pas un condor. C'est un Ferruginous Hawk ou, en bon français une Buse rouilleuse (Buteo regalis), qui comprend deux phases de couleur: la claire, et la sombre comme celle que tu as photographiée.
http://www.oiseaux.net/oiseaux/buse.rouilleuse.html
Pascale
Comme le dit sf94133calif (pas simple, comme pseudo! 😉), ce n'est pas un condor. C'est un Ferruginous Hawk ou, en bon français une Buse rouilleuse (Buteo regalis), qui comprend deux phases de couleur: la claire, et la sombre comme celle que tu as photographiée.
http://www.oiseaux.net/oiseaux/buse.rouilleuse.html
Pascale
Bonjour,
Pas de Pb, je suis un peu moins inculte maintenant ! !
Donc tu as droit à une nouvelle énigme...
Ces vilains rapaces au cou décharné, vus à Mesa Verde près de Spuce Tree House, le 14 août 2009 pour être précis !
Merci. cordialement Jean.
Ces vilains rapaces au cou décharné, vus à Mesa Verde près de Spuce Tree House, le 14 août 2009 pour être précis !
Merci. cordialement Jean.
4 fois en Camping-car: Parcs US - NewMex - Yellowst - Louisiane.
http://blogs.crespel.me/usa2009/ http://blogs.crespel.me/usa2011/
http://blogs.crespel.me/usa2012/ http://blogs.crespel.me/usa2013/
Andalousie, Bretagne, Corse, Provence, Sicile, Toscane, villes d'Italie.
sur : http://blogs.crespel.me/
Je ne sais pas très bien à qui tu t'adresses 😉, je peux supposer que c'est à moi, donc je te réponds: urubu à tête rouge.
Et en avant-première, avant que je ne poste mon carnet 2005 (je fais les choses à l'envers), je te copie ce que j'avais écrit sur lui:
Des vautours « turkeys » (Cathartes aura ou Urubu à tête rouge) passent et repassent dans le ciel vide, survolant la cime des junipers et white oaks, comme deux mille ans auparavant. Cet oiseau a la particularité d’avoir un odorat, chose rarissime chez un oiseau, et c’est la raison pour laquelle on ne le voit pas voler à très haute altitude contrairement à l’urubu noir, par exemple. Il a par ailleurs réussi à s’adapter aussi bien aux déserts les plus inhospitaliers d’Amérique du Sud qu’aux sombres forêts canadiennes.
En vol ils sont magnifiques!
Pascale
Et en avant-première, avant que je ne poste mon carnet 2005 (je fais les choses à l'envers), je te copie ce que j'avais écrit sur lui:
Des vautours « turkeys » (Cathartes aura ou Urubu à tête rouge) passent et repassent dans le ciel vide, survolant la cime des junipers et white oaks, comme deux mille ans auparavant. Cet oiseau a la particularité d’avoir un odorat, chose rarissime chez un oiseau, et c’est la raison pour laquelle on ne le voit pas voler à très haute altitude contrairement à l’urubu noir, par exemple. Il a par ailleurs réussi à s’adapter aussi bien aux déserts les plus inhospitaliers d’Amérique du Sud qu’aux sombres forêts canadiennes.
En vol ils sont magnifiques!
Pascale
Merci Pascale pour cette grande précision !
Je ne les ai pas vu en vol.... mais aussi se prélassant avec les ailes étendues (voir ci-dessous, ils sont un peu loin...)
Cordialement Jean.
Je ne les ai pas vu en vol.... mais aussi se prélassant avec les ailes étendues (voir ci-dessous, ils sont un peu loin...)
Cordialement Jean.
4 fois en Camping-car: Parcs US - NewMex - Yellowst - Louisiane.
http://blogs.crespel.me/usa2009/ http://blogs.crespel.me/usa2011/
http://blogs.crespel.me/usa2012/ http://blogs.crespel.me/usa2013/
Andalousie, Bretagne, Corse, Provence, Sicile, Toscane, villes d'Italie.
sur : http://blogs.crespel.me/
De rien 🙂.
Ils sont loin, oui, mais vraiment très drôles, à se prendre pour des cormorans (remarque, c'est peut-être l'inverse 😉).
Pascale
Pascale
Merci pour ces photos superbes et aussi merci à tous.
Cela conforte tout ce que j'ai pu trouvé après avoir lu un article les concernant alors que je cherchais les curiosités "moins classiques" entre SF et le parc Sequoia en passant par Big Sur.
Donc si je résume, ils sont rares mais on peut tout de même les voir : au niveau du grand Canyon et sur la côte vers Big Sur ou le parc des Pinnacles. Il est difficile de les voir, mais quand ils sont là on ne peut pas les louper avec leur magnifique numéro 😉 au niveau des ailes . Décidément les américains voient tout en grand, ce ne sont plus des bagues mais de véritables panneaux indicateurs.
Qui a vu le numéro 13 😛 ?
Souhaitons leur bonne chance et même si je n'ai pas le plaisir de les voir, je sais grâce à vous qu'ils existent bien.
Sylvie
la nature est un professeur universel et sûr pour celui qui l'observe
Hi !
Comment ça il est pas simple mon pseudo😠😠😛.C'est le code postal du quartier de "north beach" à SAN FRANCISCO(que j'aime baeucoup)😉😉😎😎.
J'ai vu la fin de tes derniers carnets, ils sont superbes, si d'autres carnets m'avaient convaincu qu'il fallait aller à YELLOWSTONE, le tien m'a montré que c'était OBLIGATOIRE.
Bye, marc.
L'intelligence c'est comme les parachutes.Quand on en a pas..........on s'écrase.
Aaaaaah booooon!... Avec l'explication, ça va tout seul! 😉
Merci! 🙂 Oui, je pense comme toi que Yellowstone est incontournable!
Pascale
Merci! 🙂 Oui, je pense comme toi que Yellowstone est incontournable!
Pascale
Merci beaucoup les photos sont superbes.
Seule question était ce le matin ou l'aprés midi ?
la nature est un professeur universel et sûr pour celui qui l'observe
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And now, without too much detail...
Fort Worth: The Longhorns and the Stockyards; JR’s ranch (for the missus); Medal of Honor Museum – Arlington.
Houston and NASA Space Center: See the Gulf of Mexico/America.
San Antonio and the missions.
Fort Stockton for an overnight stop.
El Paso via Guadalupe Mountains: El Paso and White Sands.
Tucson and the Pima Air & Space Museum: Tombstone, Bisbee.
Phoenix:
Still working on the program.
Sedona: Round trip around the area via Flagstaff and Williams, or the Grand Canyon (already done) – we’ll decide on the spot.
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Hi everyone! 🙂
I’m almost done planning our September road trip. After our 3-night visit to Sequoia, we’ll have a stopover night in Coalinga (to break up the drive). We’ll be staying two nights in Monterey and would like to stop along the way to visit one side of Pinnacles National Park. We’re torn between the West entrance and the East entrance, and we’d like to do a short hike of no more than 2 hours since we don’t want to arrive too late in Monterey.
This park is split into two distinct zones with no connection between them, and the mileage from Coalinga to Monterey is pretty much the same for both. Which area do you recommend visiting—east or west? And which route is the most scenic?
I’ve spotted two short hikes: - East: Moses Spring to Rim Trail Loop - West: Balconies Cliffs Cave Loop
Has anyone been there, or do you have another hike to suggest?
Thanks in advance, and have a great afternoon! Marcalamar 🙂
I’m almost done planning our September road trip. After our 3-night visit to Sequoia, we’ll have a stopover night in Coalinga (to break up the drive). We’ll be staying two nights in Monterey and would like to stop along the way to visit one side of Pinnacles National Park. We’re torn between the West entrance and the East entrance, and we’d like to do a short hike of no more than 2 hours since we don’t want to arrive too late in Monterey.
This park is split into two distinct zones with no connection between them, and the mileage from Coalinga to Monterey is pretty much the same for both. Which area do you recommend visiting—east or west? And which route is the most scenic?
I’ve spotted two short hikes: - East: Moses Spring to Rim Trail Loop - West: Balconies Cliffs Cave Loop
Has anyone been there, or do you have another hike to suggest?
Thanks in advance, and have a great afternoon! Marcalamar 🙂
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After our first trip as a young couple to the West in 2007 (yes, that doesn’t make us any younger!), we’re planning to go back in 2028, but this time as a family of four! (We have two boys who’ll be 5½ and 13 years old in the summer of 2028.)
Our plan is to combine a few big cities (SF and LA, maybe San Diego) with national parks and state parks, mostly! Ideally, we’d like to leave at the end of June and head back to France around July 19–20, so we can enjoy the first week of the Olympic Games in Los Angeles.
Since we already did the "loop" in 2007, there are must-see places we absolutely want to revisit—and especially share with our kids: Bryce Canyon, Yosemite, and above all, the Grand Canyon, which is still the most incredible thing I’ve ever seen on Earth!
On the other hand, some places didn’t leave a big impression on us for various reasons, so we’re not making them a priority: Antelope Canyon, Monument Valley, for example.
We’re planning ahead, but might as well be smart about it😏
Do you have any tips for a fun and doable itinerary over about 20–25 days with kids, without rushing?
Thanks in advance for your feedback😉
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Anyway, the itinerary has been modified and extended to please everyone (I’m no longer the only one making decisions!!)
Here’s our final route: Day 1 - 7/12/2026 - Brussels / Los Angeles Day 2 - 7/13/2026 - Los Angeles Day 3 - 7/14/2026 - Los Angeles Day 4 - 7/15/2026 - Los Angeles Day 5 - 7/16/2026 - Los Angeles Day 6 - 7/17/2026 - Los Angeles / Kingman Day 7 - 7/18/2026 - Kingman / Grand Canyon Day 8 - 7/19/2026 - Grand Canyon / Page Day 9 - 7/20/2026 - Page Day 10 - 7/21/2026 - Page / Monument Valley Day 11 - 7/22/2026 - Monument Valley / Durango Day 12 - 7/23/2026 - Durango Day 13 - 7/24/2026 - Durango Day 14 - 7/25/2026 - Durango Day 15 - 7/26/2026 - Durango / Glenwood Springs Day 16 - 7/27/2026 - Glenwood Springs Day 17 - 7/28/2026 - Glenwood Springs / Moab Day 18 - 7/29/2026 - Moab Day 19 - 7/30/2026 - Moab Day 20 - 7/31/2026 - Moab Day 21 - 8/1/2026 - Moab Day 22 - 8/2/2026 - Moab / Vernal Day 23 - 8/3/2026 - Vernal / Grand Teton Day 24 - 8/4/2026 - Grand Teton Day 25 - 8/5/2026 - Grand Teton / Cody Day 26 - 8/6/2026 - Cody / Yellowstone Day 27 - 8/7/2026 - Yellowstone Day 28 - 8/8/2026 - Yellowstone Day 29 - 8/9/2026 - Yellowstone Day 30 - 8/10/2026 - Yellowstone / Salt Lake City Day 31 - 8/11/2026 - Salt Lake City / Bryce Canyon Day 32 - 8/12/2026 - Bryce Canyon / Zion Day 33 - 8/13/2026 - Zion Day 34 - 8/14/2026 - Zion Day 35 - 8/15/2026 - Zion / Las Vegas Day 36 - 8/16/2026 - Las Vegas Day 37 - 8/17/2026 - Las Vegas / Los Angeles Day 38 - 8/18/2026 - Los Angeles Day 39 - 8/19/2026 - Los Angeles / Brussels Day 40 - 8/20/2026 - Brussels / Home
We’ll be alternating between house swaps, motels, and campgrounds. I’ve booked all the accommodations (except the campground at Bryce since sunset bookings open only 14 days in advance) and the first activities, as well as the most touristy ones.
I’m currently putting together my day-by-day roadbook and having some trouble planning certain days, like in LA or Las Vegas. Choosing hikes isn’t easy either—it’s tough to decide!
We’re really excited but could definitely use your help with choices and optimizations!!
I had planned a trip to Colorado in 2021 but canceled due to COVID, so with time passing and my eldest’s high school graduation approaching fast, I figured it was now or never!
Anyway, the itinerary has been modified and extended to please everyone (I’m no longer the only one making decisions!!)
Here’s our final route: Day 1 - 7/12/2026 - Brussels / Los Angeles Day 2 - 7/13/2026 - Los Angeles Day 3 - 7/14/2026 - Los Angeles Day 4 - 7/15/2026 - Los Angeles Day 5 - 7/16/2026 - Los Angeles Day 6 - 7/17/2026 - Los Angeles / Kingman Day 7 - 7/18/2026 - Kingman / Grand Canyon Day 8 - 7/19/2026 - Grand Canyon / Page Day 9 - 7/20/2026 - Page Day 10 - 7/21/2026 - Page / Monument Valley Day 11 - 7/22/2026 - Monument Valley / Durango Day 12 - 7/23/2026 - Durango Day 13 - 7/24/2026 - Durango Day 14 - 7/25/2026 - Durango Day 15 - 7/26/2026 - Durango / Glenwood Springs Day 16 - 7/27/2026 - Glenwood Springs Day 17 - 7/28/2026 - Glenwood Springs / Moab Day 18 - 7/29/2026 - Moab Day 19 - 7/30/2026 - Moab Day 20 - 7/31/2026 - Moab Day 21 - 8/1/2026 - Moab Day 22 - 8/2/2026 - Moab / Vernal Day 23 - 8/3/2026 - Vernal / Grand Teton Day 24 - 8/4/2026 - Grand Teton Day 25 - 8/5/2026 - Grand Teton / Cody Day 26 - 8/6/2026 - Cody / Yellowstone Day 27 - 8/7/2026 - Yellowstone Day 28 - 8/8/2026 - Yellowstone Day 29 - 8/9/2026 - Yellowstone Day 30 - 8/10/2026 - Yellowstone / Salt Lake City Day 31 - 8/11/2026 - Salt Lake City / Bryce Canyon Day 32 - 8/12/2026 - Bryce Canyon / Zion Day 33 - 8/13/2026 - Zion Day 34 - 8/14/2026 - Zion Day 35 - 8/15/2026 - Zion / Las Vegas Day 36 - 8/16/2026 - Las Vegas Day 37 - 8/17/2026 - Las Vegas / Los Angeles Day 38 - 8/18/2026 - Los Angeles Day 39 - 8/19/2026 - Los Angeles / Brussels Day 40 - 8/20/2026 - Brussels / Home
We’ll be alternating between house swaps, motels, and campgrounds. I’ve booked all the accommodations (except the campground at Bryce since sunset bookings open only 14 days in advance) and the first activities, as well as the most touristy ones.
I’m currently putting together my day-by-day roadbook and having some trouble planning certain days, like in LA or Las Vegas. Choosing hikes isn’t easy either—it’s tough to decide!
We’re really excited but could definitely use your help with choices and optimizations!!
Hello.
I’d like to travel along I-15N from San Diego to Las Vegas with my mom, who’s 67. We’ve explored Northern California and the California Coast over the past two years and now want to continue through the desert.
There are several attractions along the way: - Mormon Rocks - Desert Discovery Center and visit the Old Woman meteorite - Joshua Tree National Park - Mojave Desert - Mojave National Preserve - Anza-Borrego Desert State Park - Silverwood Lake
My mom has back issues that prevent her from hiking or walking on trails with elevation changes. Is it possible to visit these places by car, or are the routes flat enough?
I’d love for her to experience the desert with an itinerary adapted to her condition. I’m also open to other points of interest that aren’t mentioned. We have 3-4 days for the trip, so we’re not in a rush—just want to explore.
Thanks so much. The trip would be in fall 2026
There are several attractions along the way: - Mormon Rocks - Desert Discovery Center and visit the Old Woman meteorite - Joshua Tree National Park - Mojave Desert - Mojave National Preserve - Anza-Borrego Desert State Park - Silverwood Lake
My mom has back issues that prevent her from hiking or walking on trails with elevation changes. Is it possible to visit these places by car, or are the routes flat enough?
I’d love for her to experience the desert with an itinerary adapted to her condition. I’m also open to other points of interest that aren’t mentioned. We have 3-4 days for the trip, so we’re not in a rush—just want to explore.
Thanks so much. The trip would be in fall 2026
Hi there,
I’d love to take a road trip and visit Nova Scotia. I’d appreciate some info on the best cities to see and the most interesting spots. The trip should last about 10 to 15 days, staying in hotels or motels. Thanks in advance!
I’d love to take a road trip and visit Nova Scotia. I’d appreciate some info on the best cities to see and the most interesting spots. The trip should last about 10 to 15 days, staying in hotels or motels. Thanks in advance!
Hi everyone,
Quick question—I’m heading to New York soon and I’d love to know if you guys have any recommendations for websites where I can buy concert tickets?
Quick question—I’m heading to New York soon and I’d love to know if you guys have any recommendations for websites where I can buy concert tickets?
Hi there,
We’re being relocated to Saint Pierre and Miquelon. We’ll be taking the flight from Nantes to Montreal and then from Montreal to Saint Pierre. Could you recommend a hotel near the departure terminal that allows dogs?
Thanks!
We’re being relocated to Saint Pierre and Miquelon. We’ll be taking the flight from Nantes to Montreal and then from Montreal to Saint Pierre. Could you recommend a hotel near the departure terminal that allows dogs?
Thanks!
Hi,
My 16-year-old son is flying to Grand Rapids with other kids his age. There’s a layover in Detroit. There’s no unaccompanied minor service available. Is it pretty easy to navigate Detroit Airport to catch the connecting flight to Grand Rapids (domestic flight)? There are several of them who speak English well.
Thanks for your replies,
Good evening, everyone! 🙂
Just a few last questions to wrap up our Lake Tahoe visit plans.
**Parking:** We’d like to walk to Eagle Falls and then Eagle Lake. I’ve spotted two parking lots that seem close to each other and give access to the trailhead. Where and how do we pay for entry to Emerald Bay State Park and Inspiration Point?
**Viewpoints on the East Side:** Are most of the viewpoints (Balancing Rock, Granite Cave, Bonsai Rock, etc.) right by the road, or do you have to hike to reach them?
**Donner Memorial State Park:** Is it worth making a detour to Truckee to visit this park and the Truckee historic downtown?
Thanks in advance for your tips! 🙂
**Parking:** We’d like to walk to Eagle Falls and then Eagle Lake. I’ve spotted two parking lots that seem close to each other and give access to the trailhead. Where and how do we pay for entry to Emerald Bay State Park and Inspiration Point?
**Viewpoints on the East Side:** Are most of the viewpoints (Balancing Rock, Granite Cave, Bonsai Rock, etc.) right by the road, or do you have to hike to reach them?
**Donner Memorial State Park:** Is it worth making a detour to Truckee to visit this park and the Truckee historic downtown?
Thanks in advance for your tips! 🙂
Hi there. I'm shocked by the price of the Upper Antelope Canyon tour—$175 for less than an hour… You might say, "if you can’t afford it…" But the real question is whether it’s really worth it, because $350 for two makes me feel like I’m getting ripped off. For those who’ve done both Lower and Upper, can you tell me if the price difference is really justified? Thanks
Hi everyone! 🙂
As you can see, we're heading back from September 6th to the 27th.
Everything’s booked for September—flights, accommodations, and the car. As I plan, I’ll be asking the experts for help. This is our second trip to California, but most of the stops are new to us.
We’ll start directly from San Francisco to our first overnight stop, Davis, before heading to Lassen Volcanic Park for 4 nights. Our flight lands at 12:50 PM.
Here’s our itinerary: Day 1: Davis – overnight stop Day 2: Red Bluff – exploring Lassen Volcanic Park (scenic drive to Lake Helen) Day 3: Susanville – scenic drive through the park via the South Entrance, points of interest, and hikes Day 4: Susanville – Cinder Cone and Painted Dunes hike Day 5: Susanville – Warner Valley (hikes) Day 6: South Lake Tahoe Day 7: South Lake Tahoe Day 8: Mammoth Lake Day 9: Mammoth Lake Day 10: El Portal via Tioga Road Day 11: El Portal Day 12: El Portal Day 13: Oakhurst Day 14: Miramonte Day 15: Three Rivers Day 16: Three Rivers Day 17: Coalinga Day 18: Monterey Day 19: Monterey Day 20: San Francisco Day 21: San Francisco Day 22: Departure
For hikes in Lassen Volcanic Park, I’ve planned: Bumpass Hell, Cold Boiling Lake (Day 2) Paradise Meadow (maybe not going all the way), Devastated Area, and the loop around Reflection and Manzanita Lakes (Day 3) Cinder Cone and Painted Dunes (Day 4) Devil’s Kitchen and Boiling Spring Lake (Day 5)
I’ve read there are trails to access the trailheads for Cinder Cone (11 km) and Warner Valley. Are these easy trails for an SUV? Are there any other must-see spots or things we shouldn’t miss?
That’s where I’m at for now. Thanks for your replies, and have a great evening! Marcalamar 🙂
Here’s our itinerary: Day 1: Davis – overnight stop Day 2: Red Bluff – exploring Lassen Volcanic Park (scenic drive to Lake Helen) Day 3: Susanville – scenic drive through the park via the South Entrance, points of interest, and hikes Day 4: Susanville – Cinder Cone and Painted Dunes hike Day 5: Susanville – Warner Valley (hikes) Day 6: South Lake Tahoe Day 7: South Lake Tahoe Day 8: Mammoth Lake Day 9: Mammoth Lake Day 10: El Portal via Tioga Road Day 11: El Portal Day 12: El Portal Day 13: Oakhurst Day 14: Miramonte Day 15: Three Rivers Day 16: Three Rivers Day 17: Coalinga Day 18: Monterey Day 19: Monterey Day 20: San Francisco Day 21: San Francisco Day 22: Departure
For hikes in Lassen Volcanic Park, I’ve planned: Bumpass Hell, Cold Boiling Lake (Day 2) Paradise Meadow (maybe not going all the way), Devastated Area, and the loop around Reflection and Manzanita Lakes (Day 3) Cinder Cone and Painted Dunes (Day 4) Devil’s Kitchen and Boiling Spring Lake (Day 5)
I’ve read there are trails to access the trailheads for Cinder Cone (11 km) and Warner Valley. Are these easy trails for an SUV? Are there any other must-see spots or things we shouldn’t miss?
That’s where I’m at for now. Thanks for your replies, and have a great evening! Marcalamar 🙂
Here's a tip for future visitors!
https://www.foxnews.com/travel/3-national-parks-slash-red-tape-americans-boldly-transforming-visitor-entry
https://www.foxnews.com/travel/3-national-parks-slash-red-tape-americans-boldly-transforming-visitor-entry
Hi everyone,
I’m a total USA addict. I’ve already done several road trips, including the East Coast and West Coast. I’m here today because I’m planning to go back for another road trip on the West Coast. Possibly with one of my sisters and a couple of friends. It’s still just a plan for now, but I’m working on an itinerary in the meantime. Ideally, I’d leave in 2026, but I don’t have the exact dates yet—maybe April-May or September-October. My last trip to the West Coast was in September 2014. We went for 2 weeks, but this time it’d be 3 weeks. What made me want to go back was simply a colleague who just left today. As I’m writing this, he’s on the plane. I’m so happy for him, but now all I can think about is going back.
Since I recently went to NY, I noticed that prices have really gone up. I assume the same is true for the West Coast? For 2 people over 3 weeks, what budget should I expect? We’re the type to watch our spending and find great tips. I think we’ll arrive in San Francisco like the first time and leave from either Los Angeles or Las Vegas.
Thanks to everyone for your advice and help.
I’m a total USA addict. I’ve already done several road trips, including the East Coast and West Coast. I’m here today because I’m planning to go back for another road trip on the West Coast. Possibly with one of my sisters and a couple of friends. It’s still just a plan for now, but I’m working on an itinerary in the meantime. Ideally, I’d leave in 2026, but I don’t have the exact dates yet—maybe April-May or September-October. My last trip to the West Coast was in September 2014. We went for 2 weeks, but this time it’d be 3 weeks. What made me want to go back was simply a colleague who just left today. As I’m writing this, he’s on the plane. I’m so happy for him, but now all I can think about is going back.
Since I recently went to NY, I noticed that prices have really gone up. I assume the same is true for the West Coast? For 2 people over 3 weeks, what budget should I expect? We’re the type to watch our spending and find great tips. I think we’ll arrive in San Francisco like the first time and leave from either Los Angeles or Las Vegas.
Thanks to everyone for your advice and help.
Thanks for advising me on the booking—should I reserve a room in the hotel or go for a cabin for the best view?
Should I get breakfast or not?
What do you think of the restaurant?
Hello, if the off-the-beaten-path enthusiasts are still around 😉, I’d love some info on tackling these trails. I’m not super familiar with the rules, risks, or what to expect—I’m looking for firsthand experience from folks who’ve done it on their own once or multiple times.
Hi everyone!
I’m planning a week-long family trip to NYC in October 2026. The focus is on museums and soaking up the New York vibe. I’ve been checking Airbnb, but the prices in Manhattan are through the roof. Since I don’t know NYC well, is it "wise" to look outside Manhattan? Any neighborhoods you’d recommend?
Hello,
After our first trip to the West, we’d love to go back to see other must-see spots!
The stay would be from May 11 to 20, 2026—it’s short, but hey...
M11: Lyon to Las Vegas (overnight in Vegas) T12: Route 66 – overnight in Grand Canyon (GC) W13: Visit GC – overnight in Page Th14: Visit Antelope Canyon / Horseshoe Bend – overnight in Monument Valley (MV) F15: Visit MV – overnight in Moab Sa16: Visit Arches / Dead Horse Point – overnight in Bryce Su17: Visit Bryce – overnight in Zion M18: Visit Zion / Valley of Fire – overnight in Vegas Tu19: Return flight
What do you think? Could we add one more night somewhere? We’re not big hikers, so we’ll mostly explore the parks using shuttles.
Also, we’re all set—passports are good. Do you think one classic Visa card and one premium Visa card will be enough for coverage?
Thanks so much for your feedback, and happy holidays!
Christophe
After our first trip to the West, we’d love to go back to see other must-see spots!
The stay would be from May 11 to 20, 2026—it’s short, but hey...
M11: Lyon to Las Vegas (overnight in Vegas) T12: Route 66 – overnight in Grand Canyon (GC) W13: Visit GC – overnight in Page Th14: Visit Antelope Canyon / Horseshoe Bend – overnight in Monument Valley (MV) F15: Visit MV – overnight in Moab Sa16: Visit Arches / Dead Horse Point – overnight in Bryce Su17: Visit Bryce – overnight in Zion M18: Visit Zion / Valley of Fire – overnight in Vegas Tu19: Return flight
What do you think? Could we add one more night somewhere? We’re not big hikers, so we’ll mostly explore the parks using shuttles.
Also, we’re all set—passports are good. Do you think one classic Visa card and one premium Visa card will be enough for coverage?
Thanks so much for your feedback, and happy holidays!
Christophe
Hi North America forum crew,
Just a little post that might interest some of you:
Travelers to the United States | Photo Now Mandatory Upon Entry and Exit | La Presse
Hi everyone.
I assume many of you already know, but the America the Beautiful annual pass, which was $80, will increase to $250 starting January 1, 2026.
So if you're planning to travel before the end of December 2026, it's in your best interest to buy your pass in December 2025, since it will still cost $80 and be valid until the end of December 2026 if you purchase it in December 2025.
This price increase only applies to non-U.S. residents.
Additionally, for those who planned to visit just one park, a $100 surcharge per person will apply to access a list of 11 national parks... For example, if there are 4 of you in a car, you’ll have to pay $35 + $400, which comes to $435 to visit one of the 11 parks on the list (I don’t have all of them... Bryce, Zion, Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, Grand Teton, etc.). Total madness.
The goal is to push people who only visit one park into buying the annual pass.
Last point: free entry days are over for non-residents!
That’s all for now.
I assume many of you already know, but the America the Beautiful annual pass, which was $80, will increase to $250 starting January 1, 2026.
So if you're planning to travel before the end of December 2026, it's in your best interest to buy your pass in December 2025, since it will still cost $80 and be valid until the end of December 2026 if you purchase it in December 2025.
This price increase only applies to non-U.S. residents.
Additionally, for those who planned to visit just one park, a $100 surcharge per person will apply to access a list of 11 national parks... For example, if there are 4 of you in a car, you’ll have to pay $35 + $400, which comes to $435 to visit one of the 11 parks on the list (I don’t have all of them... Bryce, Zion, Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, Grand Teton, etc.). Total madness.
The goal is to push people who only visit one park into buying the annual pass.
Last point: free entry days are over for non-residents!
That’s all for now.
Hi everyone, I’m traveling to Los Angeles and would like to rent a vehicle at the airport. However, I have a Boursobank Ultim deferred debit card, so I’d love to know if it’s possible for those who’ve experienced this recently. Thanks for the info!
Hi VF community,
I’m planning a week in S.F. in April 2026 and I can’t figure out how to tell the cable cars—of which I understand there are three lines—apart from the trams, which I think number seven. I can’t find their individual numbers or routes anywhere.
Could someone shed some light on this for me? Thanks in advance.
Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and a wonderful 2026 full of amazing travels. Cheers, Régine
I’m planning a week in S.F. in April 2026 and I can’t figure out how to tell the cable cars—of which I understand there are three lines—apart from the trams, which I think number seven. I can’t find their individual numbers or routes anywhere.
Could someone shed some light on this for me? Thanks in advance.
Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and a wonderful 2026 full of amazing travels. Cheers, Régine
Hi,
I’m planning a road trip through the American national parks starting from Denver in June 2026.
The price of the pass is jumping from 80 € to 250 € on January 1st, 2026!!!
Is it possible to buy the pass online before the end of the year to lock in the 80 € rate? If so, where and how do I go about it?
Thanks for your tips.
Arnale
Hi there,
I’m planning a road trip for July 2026 in northern Florida. Could you let me know if my itinerary makes sense? Day 1: Orlando Day 2: Amelia Island Day 3: Amelia Island Day 4: Tallahassee Day 5: Panama City Beach Day 6: Panama City Beach (visit to Destin) Day 7: Crystal River (stop in Cedar Key on the way) Day 8: Crystal River Day 9: Anna Maria (stop in Clearwater) Day 10: Anna Maria (St. Pete) Day 11: Anna Maria Day 12: Orlando Day 13: Orlando Day 14: Orlando Day 15: Departure
Thanks in advance for your tips!
I’m planning a road trip for July 2026 in northern Florida. Could you let me know if my itinerary makes sense? Day 1: Orlando Day 2: Amelia Island Day 3: Amelia Island Day 4: Tallahassee Day 5: Panama City Beach Day 6: Panama City Beach (visit to Destin) Day 7: Crystal River (stop in Cedar Key on the way) Day 8: Crystal River Day 9: Anna Maria (stop in Clearwater) Day 10: Anna Maria (St. Pete) Day 11: Anna Maria Day 12: Orlando Day 13: Orlando Day 14: Orlando Day 15: Departure
Thanks in advance for your tips!











