Tower Fall - Wyoming, United States

Tower Fall is one of the prettiest waterfalls on Tower Creek in the northeastern region of Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, in the United States. The fall is about 1,000 yards upstream from the creek's confluence with the Yellowstone River, plunges 132 feet (40 meters). Tower Fall name comes from the rock pinnacles at the top of the fall. The breathtaking waterfall plunges a water column crashes onto the rocks at its base.

In 1870, Samuel Hauser, the member of the Washburn party, notation the name in his diary. The Tower Falls and Creek Falls are located just three miles south of Roosevelt Junction on the Tower-Canyon road. This is more graceful and eye-catching waterfalls which formations looming over the canyon it was nestled in.

You would love to hear the rush of the water and the calls of wildlife at this tranquil and scenic natural area. Tower Fall has enchanted the imaginations of travelers, explorers, and even legislators for more than 140 years. Further, until 1986, visitors could see a large boulder perched on the edge of where the fall drops.

Trail of Tower Falls

It is an easy little trail, as many people walking it in flip flops. Tower Fall Trail passes through a lovely pine forest and is well maintained. Some visitor gets the better view to have a hike down a paved steep ¼ mile trail. Every year thousands of visitors putting pressure on the unstable streambank undercutting the paved path.

It is highly recommended to safely pass the trail when dry, but better not to try during icy wet and slippery. The Tower Falls is eerie-shaped minarets or towers sculpted from rhyolitic basalt. The trail is still restoring, but after washouts, so you can only go about a quarter mile beyond the upper viewing platform for the falls.

Also, see the rainbow arched across the mist of Tower Falls, adding the majestic beauty. In 2004, the last part of the trail was washed out by rock and mudslides, and the trail to the base of the waterfall remains closed. Also, sadly the park has yet to reopen trail to creekside view, it’s been decades now.

When to Go to Tower Falls

Well, even from the viewing area at the top, you get a sense of how breathtaking the waterfalls in Yellowstone can be. This is particularly to visit in May and June. When the snow melts and rain produced some fabulous water flowing in the rivers and over the falls.

The major drawback in those months is incredibly busy and you must wait your turn for top view and take photographs. Many people don’t wait a lot and pushing you, that ultimately distract your focus on taking photos. Hence, to come early to avoid the rush.

Nearby Attraction

The nearby viewing point of Calcite Springs also offers scenic vistas of the zone, including the rare hexagonal basalt pillars, were created by lava flow the cracked as it cooled. Also note, that during the winter months, the entire tower waterfall is encased in an ice dome and the frozen falls are accessible via cross country skies. Moreover, many other marvelous sights and waterfalls in the area.

A Sign Board at the overlook explains how Tower Fall was Formed?

“Like many of Yellowstone’s waterfalls, Tower Fall began as a low ledge at the junction of two different bedrocks. Rock at the brink and underlying the fall is a tough, volcanic breccia; the weaker downstream rock erodes faster. Where Tower Creek drops into space, imagine the missing streambed—a channel of softer rock long since worn away. Just downstream from the base of the Fall, the Yellowstone River enters a narrow, swift-running gorge. Tower Creek cannot downcut fast enough to keep pace—and is left hanging high above the river.” Source: CP

Pattan Minara, Rahim Yar Khan, Pakistan

Patan Minara is an ancient Buddhist monastery in Rahim Yar Khan Pakistan. The 2,000 years old monastery situated 8 KM from Rahim Yar Khan City a single burnt sienna column remains. It is very little known information about single column minara. However, it was believed to be built during Hakrra valley civilization during Mauryan period approximately 250BC. 

The archeologists believe the Patan Minara was built by Alexander the Great during his visit to the military expedition to Hind (India). The Pattan Minara means the “Tower on the Ford”. It is named after Pattan Pur, once a lush green city situated on the bank of the River Ghagra, an offshoot of the River Indus.

Alexander the Great established a cantonment under Greek Governor. Therefore, The Patan Minara served for keeping a watchful eye on the local tribes. Some mystical stories are associated with the history of Patan Minara. Some believe that hidden treasure was buried under the tower. A Sanskrit written brick was discovered at the start of 18^th century when it was demolished. A fort, mosque, and tunnels still remain in that area. Some historians believe, Alexander also conquered the state and stayed in the ancient city.

Colonel Minchin the Ex-Bhawalpur the state passed an order to excavate the ruins of Patan Minara. He had heard that hidden treasure was buried in tunnels that were part of the Sienna column remains. Unfortunately, a worker came across a semi-liquid swarmed flies killed him at the spot. So, the digging process was stopped due to this disaster. 

In the 18^th century Fazal Elahi Khan Halani the chief of Daupauta used its remains to build the Baghla & Dingar Forte. The local government even though officially declared heritage site. The unplanned housing is creeping up in the surrounding area and the construction industry is for reti-bajri or sand around the ruins. The nomadic peoples are living life in the surrounding area mainly depends upon their stock lives of camel feed.

Although Pattan Minara has lost its prime, local people are trying to save this site by pledging to bring back coins they found. Maybe someone has already been discovered the hidden treasure, no one exactly knows. The sole remnant of the civilization and its remains is eroding with the passage of time, and it seems like it wouldn’t stand in future. However, in recent times some restoration and beautifying work is done by the local government. 

If the department of Archaeology and the government pay some attention to this minara, it can reveal it's true to discover the likes of another Harappa or Mohenjo Daro. If you are a photography lover, then you should visit Patan Minara in the evening. It is the ideal time for photography when the sun is perfectly placed opposite of Minara. Source: CP

Wahweap Hoodoos – Untouched Scary Pristine Land

If someone mentally and physically fit, he/she can hike for 4 to 5 hours. Then you should plan to visit the dry lands of Southern Utah, where one of the strangest geological sights on the continent. The most astonishing Hoodoos on planet earth lies almost, three hours north of Grand Canyon’s rarely used 9.2 miles out and back trail. The Wahweep Creek and Nipple Creek shinning under direct sunlight on the Wahweap Wash. This hike is through a wash that can be very slippery if wet. When it’s dry and hot there is little reprieve from the sun. The hoodoo’s wildernesses safeguard some of the most dramatic scenery in the United States, from mountain vistas to snug canyons and everywhere in between.

The trail usage may be low, a dilapidated Hanging Fence will be first of Wahweap Hoodoos. The strangest rock formation formed more than 100 million years ago when T-Rex’s roamed Utah. These hoodoos are the column of weathered rock formed due to the thick layer of soft rock is covered by a thin layer of hard rock. Sometimes, when cracks in the hard rock allow the underlying soft rock to erode, one small cap of the hard rock is resistant to cracking, and it protects the underlying soft rock. This cone of protected rock eventually takes the shape of a vertical pinnacle. The Wahweap Hoodoos – generally described as three separate groupings or ‘coves’ – the White Hoodoo, Hoodoo Central, and the Towers of Silence – are separated by just a few miles.

The white sandstone spires, which have been named everything from goblins to white ghosts, are unique geology of the sun-scorched lands of the Southwest.  Moreover, close to Wahweap Hoodoos you can take a short walk to the darker side where you can find brown "toadstools" make an appearance just off the highway at the Rimrocks. The Wahweap Hoodoos are a pictorial group of pinnacles and balanced rocks enclosed by undulating mounds and cliffs of white Entrada sandstone. The Paiutes believed that hoodoos are the remnants of people who were turned to stone.

Guadalupe Peak, Texas

Guadalupe Mountains National Park

If you’re an American and living in Texas. Do you know the highest natural point in Texas? The Singal Peak, also known as Guadalupe Peak is the highest natural point in Texas located in Guadalupe Mountains National Park. Guadalupe Peak is one of the major parts of Guadalupe Mountains range in Southeastern New Mexico and West Texas. 

The national park includes the mountain range Guadalupe Peak, El Capitan, Butterfield Overland Mail stagecoach line near the Pine Springs visitor center. Although, there are six 8,000 feet peaks in Guadalupe Mountains National Park. The most famous is El Capitan, the first sight you see in park with the towering shock of limestone that surges right off the desert floor.

The weather of Guadalupe Mountains National Park

The Guadalupe Mountains normally have hot summers, mild autumn and calm weather, cool to cold in winter and early spring as well. Also, snow storms, sleet storms, freezing rain, or fog may happen in winter. Regular high wind warnings are issued during winter through spring. Also, the nights are cool even in summer and late summer monsoons produce thunderstorms.

Where is Guadalupe Peak?

The Guadalupe Peak is 140 kilometers east of El Paso and 80 kilometers southwest of Carlsbad, New Mexico. It has an elevation of 8,751 feet above sea level and rises over 2,967 feet above the arid floor of the Chihuahuan Desert.

Guadalupe Peak Trail and Summit

A beautiful well maintained a stony trail of 6.8 kilometers each way with an over 3,000 feet elevation gain during the round of the year. This trail is one of a major part of network hiking trails in the surrounding national park. Moreover, a stainless-steel pyramid marks the summit with American Airlines logo in 1958 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Butterfield Overland Mail. However, the other side has United States Service tribute to the Pony Express Riders of the Butterfield stage. Also, the third side shows a compass with the logo of the Boy Scouts of America.

Guadalupe Peak Hike

The peak trail is about 8.1 mile offers to see magnificent wildlife of this area. The Trail winds through pinyon pine and Douglas-fir forests with views of El Capitan and the Chihuahuan Desert. The hike considered a bit difficult as many activity options are accessible year-round. The tail is moderately trafficked but a rewarding strenuous hike introduces hikers for parks ecosystem, high desert and forest high elevation. You must be very fit for Peak hike as it will take 7 to 8 hours round trip. The Guadalupe Peak Hike provides fantastic views from the highest point.

The first few miles are steepest but get easier and shady after that. Also, the last ¼ mile is treacherous and gets narrow. You must be scramble on the side of the cliff. Don’t forget to bring plenty of water, food. It could be nice to start early before heat sets in, with shoes with good ankle support and a sturdy running stick are highly recommended. Also, must be careful to hydrate well with little breaks in the shade when possible. Further, you must follow the hiker tail signs otherwise you may have lost your way to took extra efforts to reach the destination. Read More - Fairyland Caverns – Breathtaking Homage to Rock City Gardens

The Sanssouci Palace, Haiti

In the Town of Milot, Nord, the royal residence of King Henri located approximately five kilometers northeast of Citadelle Laferriere. From the South West, it is thirteen kilometers off the Three Bays Protected Area.  I hope you would have guessed the name of this palace? Well, this is Sans-Souci Palace in Haiti. It is a French name which means ‘carefree’.

King Henri is also known as ‘Henri Christophe’ with his Wife Queen Marie Louise and two daughters. Sans-Souci the palace is one of the most important of nine palaces built by King. He was also famous for building numerous forts, sprawling summer’s homes, and fifteen châteaux. In 1982, the UNESCO designated Sans-Souci Palace and the Citadelle as World Heritage Sites. Some scholars believed that Christophe took part of his inspiration for the palace from the Prussian king Frederick the Great palace in Potsdam, Sans-Souci, a symbol of European Enlightenment achievement.

King Christophe was self-imposed monarch; a former slave had fought in the American Revolutionary War beside with George Washington. In 1804, he went to be a main leader in the Haitian Revolution, when the small nations gain independence from France. The Sans-Souci palace city of Milot has extended to the border of the site, and the required for natural resources, such as limestone and trees, are impacting the surrounding landscape.

Construction of Sans-Souci Palace

In 1810, the King was decided to start uniquely designed construction of the palace in Milot, Nord Department. It took three years to complete the Sans-Souci Palace. King Henri was infamous for its mercilessness. It is unidentified how many laborers were died during the construction of the palace. Earlier than the construction of Sans-Souci, Milot was a French plantation that King Henri managed for a period during the Haitian Revolution.

Sans Souci Palace was built only a few yards away or maybe even exactly over, the place where one of traitor himself was killed by Christophe. In 1842, a massive earthquake destroyed a substantial part of the Sans-Souci and palace was never rebuilt. Before the earthquake destruction, the palace was acknowledged by many legends to be the Caribbean equivalent of the Palace of Versailles in France.

After the permanent damage was done by the earthquake, the palace foundation is weakening by rainwater and constant deforestation. This factor puts the stability of the mountain at stake. Moreover, local authorities neglect the site and assured now to in charge of the responsibility of keeping all the cultural sites safe and in good condition.

King Christophe Reign

During his time in power, the palace was notorious for opulent feasting and dancing. It has artificial springs, huge gardens, and waterworks system. Unfortunately, the palace is empty ruin these days. It was splendor dream of foreign visitors in his prime time. It was remarked the reputation of having been one of the most magnificent edifices of the Caribbean Island.

The pomp and circumstance of Sans-Souci was part of King Program to demonstrate the Europeans and Americans, the power and ability of the black race. King Christophe's reign established hereditary nobility, along with coats of arms and prescribed ceremonial dress drew heavily on European monarchical signs of prestige.

The African was feeling the pride to be part of palace construction. One of his advisors, Pompee Valentin Vastey said, the Sans-Souci and it's in close proximity church, erected by descendants of Africans. They demonstrate not to lose the architectural taste and mastermind of our ancestors who covered Ethiopia, Egypt, Carthage, and Spain with their superb monuments.

Some scholars argue, Sans-Souci architecture is inspired by the Boffrand's designs for the Château de la Malgrange for Leopold, Duke of Lorraine, close to Nancy. It is one of the most remarkable attractions in the Western Hemisphere. The Palace of Sans-Souci is seldom visited by foreigners due to several decades of political instability and lawlessness in Haiti.

The Citadelle Laferrière Fortress

Another famous fortress CitadelleLaferrière located adjacent with Sans-Suci palace. The renowned mountaintop fortress; built under a decree by King Henri Christophe to repel a terror of French invasion that never happened. The Citadelle Laferrière Fortress is reached by ongoing trail behind the Palace. In 1825, Haiti was recognized colonial power by France.

Haiti agreed to pay a massive ruinous indemnity of 150 million francs in return for diplomatic and economic relations. The gigantic stone structure is located about 17 miles south of the city of Cap-Haïtien and five miles uphill from the town of Milot. The Citadelle Laferrière Fortress was constructed up to 20,000 workers between 1805 and 1820 as part of the system of fortification designed to keep Haiti safe from French attack.

Death of King Henri Christopher

On October 1820, King Henri crippled by a stroke, and he committed suicide on the grounds, shooting himself with a silver bullet on the grounds of the palace. According to Haitian legend, he shot himself with a silver bullet and then he was subsequently buried in the Citadelle. His son Jacques Victor Henri bayoneted to death by revolutionaries at the palace. He has also nominated nobility and as prince and heir.

Tourism at Sans-Souci Palace

The palace does not have adequate tourist infrastructure and information to provide somewhere to stay visitors. The structures are not maintained regularly and preserving the site infrastructure. The City of Cap-Haitien is a peaceful and wonderful place. But on rare occasion’s tourist visit the palace. It is mainly because of political instability and lawlessness in the country. Moreover, taxis are preferred mode of transport whereas local things such souvenirs are made and sold outside and within the Palace. Source: CP