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Mountlake Terrace

Mountlake Terrace is a city in the Puget Sound region of Washington State, and is one of many Seattle's northern suburbs along Interstate 5.

Get in
Interstate 5 passes through Mount Lake Terrace, traveling north and south.

Get around

 * Operates regional express buses that stop at the Mountlake Terrace Transit Center. In 2024, the buses are to be replaced by Link light rail service that connect with Seattle.
 * Operates regional express buses that stop at the Mountlake Terrace Transit Center. In 2024, the buses are to be replaced by Link light rail service that connect with Seattle.

Since it is a fairly small city, you can walk and also bike around.

See
Nice neighborhood parks, homes and small city center.

Do
There are a recreational pavilion, lots of parks, and convenience stores.

Buy
There is a 2 supermarkets in Mountlake Terrace. In western Mountlake Terrace, there is a Rogers that is across the street from a plaza that contains a Post Office, a Butcher, and a pizza shoppe.

The other Supermarket is across the street from papa Johns and is on 44th Ave. West. It is in a plaza that contains a local restaurants, a local pub, a Bartell Drugs, a laundromat, and a 24-hour Fitness across the street from a bank.

Up the street in NE Mountlake Terrace is an Arco Station that is across the street from a tattoo parlor, a small convenience store, and teriyaki Joint.

Eat
Local burger joint, Red Onion. Owned by a couple who make AWESOME burgers and fries.

There is also a Papa Johns in eastern Mountlake Terrace who does Delivery.

Drink
There is a coffee stand Across the street from the Red Onion who make good coffee.

Next door to Papa Johns there is a Starbucks.

title: Mountlake Terrace


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Mount Lebanon

Mount Lebanon is a region of Lebanon.

The Mount Lebanon region is an outdoor adventure-lover's paradise. With high, snow-capped mountains running north to south through the center of the country, this region offers a rocky, rugged terrain that is perfect for a variety of outdoor sports and adventure activities. On the west side of the mountain range, the foothills slope down to the sunny Mediterranean coast. On the east side stretches the wide, agricultural Bekaa Valley. At the height of Mount Lebanon's peaks are excellent opportunities for skiing, hiking, mountain climbing, and other winter and outdoor adventure sports.

Cities

 * (Joubeil) — another city with plenty of remains, castles and museums
 * — village of beautiful stone houses with red-tiled roofs
 * — known for its seaside resorts and nightclubs

Other destinations

 * — In these caves and galleries, known to man since Paleolithic times, the action of water has created cathedral-like vaults beneath the wooded hills of Mount Lebanon.
 * — The Mar Jurius (Saint George) Church, which stands in a small square in the middle of the village, was built with Roman temple remains. On a hill further south are the ruins of the church of Sayidat Douka. Numerous other old churches are scattered around the village, most with ancient temple elements. Amongst these are the double church of Saints John and Theodore, and the churches of Saint Doumit and Saint Elisha.

Understand
While "Mount Lebanon" is a reference point for the mountains behind Beirut for both visitors and Lebanese alike, the region is a diverse collection of micro-regions encompassing:

Chouf

A lush mountainous area with standout towns including Deir El Qamar ('Monastery of the Moon') and Beittedine, both of which host music and cultural festivals of international standard during summer months (Jul-Aug). The area also includes the Chouf Cedars Reserve (Barouk). The Chouf comprises a number of mixed Druze and Christian settlements, giving the area considerable diversity in architecture and the larger settlements a more cosmopolitan (if still alpine) feel. The area has escaped many of the ravages of tourist-led development, and tends to be very quiet out of season.

Aley District

Largely commercial and market towns spanning the ridge between the Chouf District (south) and the Metn District (north); these areas tends to be popular vacation areas for Gulf Arabs, with the type of tourist infrastructure (serviced apartments, resort type hotels) developing accordingly. Major towns include Aley and Bhamdoun, both of which offer diversity by way of dining and accommodation options, with activities focussed largely around retail.

Metn - South

A quiet, tranquil and well-to-do region encompassing many small market towns and villages. Great for an escape from the bustle of Aley. While the area lacks many of the standout attractions of its neighbours, it offers pleasant views and clean air, surrounded by the largest existing pine forest in the Middle East.

Metn - North (also known as Metn al-Ahlaa - 'Taller/Higher Metn')

A hub of activity with larger settlements including Beit Mery and Broumanna (both popular resort towns for Lebanese holidaymakers) and the large mountain town of Bikfaya. Beit Mery and Broumana both host smaller scale summer festivals than those seen in Beiteddine or Deir El Qamar, albeit both towns have a stronger centre of gravity for the visitor outside these times of the year, with an extensive retail offer and good dining scenes.

Kesrouanne

Similar to the Metn (south) by way of character, with a more traditional village-type look and feel.

Talk
English and French are widely understood in this region, with many locals being familiar in communicating with tourists and visitors (partly because the area has such a large number of expatriates now living in the US, Australia, Canada, France and west Africa). The larger towns (Beit Mery, Broumanna, Bikfaya and Aley) are relatively indistinguishable from Beirut in standards of dress and behaviour, meaning there is no real need for formality (although it is often well received). Albeit the smaller towns tend to be more conservative, there is no real need to change standards of dress unless visiting churches, religious shrines, and temples.

All of the larger towns have well established tourist infrastructure - internet cafes are widespread and by western standards cheap (less than LL 5000 (US$3) per hour).

See

 * At Niha is located a cave fortress, which has been used at different periods from ~975 AD to 1635.
 * At Maaser el Shouf is set a short hiking track among millenarian cedars.
 * Hiking is possible at Barouk entrance.
 * At Maaser el Shouf is set a short hiking track among millenarian cedars.
 * Hiking is possible at Barouk entrance.

Stay safe
This is probably one of the safer areas in which to travel in Lebanon, if not the Levant as a whole. However, scammers and pickpockets are known to frequent the Gold Market and central square at Bhamdoun, using distraction to relieve others of their goods - exercise common sense and avoid anyone seen to be loitering; do not respond to any calls for attention.

Troubles in neighbouring Syria have seen an exodus of (often harmless) beggars to the larger hill towns outside Beirut, including Aley. This is more of a nuisance than a danger.

If in need of directions, always ask at a local shop (of which there are many lining the roads).

Go next

 * Zahle

license: Creative Commons - Attribution Share-Alike - https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/

title: Mount Lebanon


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Mount Lebanon (disambiguation)

There is more than one place called Mount Lebanon or Mt. Lebanon:

Lebanon

 * Mount Lebanon — A region of Lebanon.

United States of America

 * Mt. Lebanon (Pennsylvania) — A suburb of Pittsburgh.

title: Mount Lebanon (disambiguation)


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Santa Catalina Mountains

The Santa Catalina Mountains, often called simply the Catalinas, are a mountain range in the Coronado National Forest and located northeast of Tucson. Crowned by Mt. Lemmon at an elevation of, the range is a 'sky island', which has a very different climate from that of the valley and surrounding desert. This climatic difference makes it a popular tourist destination for those in the Phoenix and Tucson areas, particularly in the summer months.

The Catalinas are the home of Ski Valley, the location of the small town of Summerhaven, and the site of an astronomical observatory.

Climate
On average the climate at the summit is at least twenty degrees cooler than it is at the base. Please note that this means ample amounts of snow can, and do, fall on the mountain during the winter months.

Get in
The only way to really reach the mountain is on the Catalina Highway that begins in Tucson. During the winter months it is advisable to use vehicles that have four wheel drive and/ or snow chains as the road can become very slippery.

Fees and permits
Visitors are required to purchase a Coronado Recreation Pass ($5/day, $20/year), which also is good for use in Sabino Canyon and in Madera Canyon (listed in South Central Arizona).

See
The town of Summerhaven, which has a year-round population of 100 that swells up during the summer months. Most of the town is being completely rebuilt after the 2003 Aspen Fire destroyed most of it.

Do

 * Rock climbing is popular throughout Mount Lemmon. With a variety of rock formations to match the climatic zones, the area is quite diverse with thousands of climbing routes and has everything from sport, trad, single-pitch and multi-pitch climbs. A guide book that covers the area can be picked up in Tucson.
 * Rock climbing is popular throughout Mount Lemmon. With a variety of rock formations to match the climatic zones, the area is quite diverse with thousands of climbing routes and has everything from sport, trad, single-pitch and multi-pitch climbs. A guide book that covers the area can be picked up in Tucson.
 * Rock climbing is popular throughout Mount Lemmon. With a variety of rock formations to match the climatic zones, the area is quite diverse with thousands of climbing routes and has everything from sport, trad, single-pitch and multi-pitch climbs. A guide book that covers the area can be picked up in Tucson.
 * Rock climbing is popular throughout Mount Lemmon. With a variety of rock formations to match the climatic zones, the area is quite diverse with thousands of climbing routes and has everything from sport, trad, single-pitch and multi-pitch climbs. A guide book that covers the area can be picked up in Tucson.
 * Rock climbing is popular throughout Mount Lemmon. With a variety of rock formations to match the climatic zones, the area is quite diverse with thousands of climbing routes and has everything from sport, trad, single-pitch and multi-pitch climbs. A guide book that covers the area can be picked up in Tucson.
 * Rock climbing is popular throughout Mount Lemmon. With a variety of rock formations to match the climatic zones, the area is quite diverse with thousands of climbing routes and has everything from sport, trad, single-pitch and multi-pitch climbs. A guide book that covers the area can be picked up in Tucson.

Camping
There are campgrounds in the mountains. Be sure to get a permit at the foot of the mountain, just before Molino Basin near milepost 4. Camping fees are in addition to travel permit, self-pay at entrance.

Stay safe
Dehydration is very easy on the mountain and altitude sickness is very common so be sure to drink plenty of water in order to avoid both! Take a pack of gum with you on the highway because Tucson's elevation is at around 2,500 feet and Mount Lemmon is over 9,000 feet.

Go next
Once you reach the top of the mountain, you can take a shortcut that will take you to Oracle but it is recommended that only 4-wheel-drive vehicles use it.

title: Santa Catalina Mountains


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Mountmellick

Mountmellick is a town in County Laois, with a population of about 4900 in 2022. It's difficult to believe that this small place was once a large industrial town: English Quakers settled in the 17th century and founded breweries, a distillery, woollen mills, cotton, tanneries and glassworks. These have all vanished, though a tradition of lace-making and embroidery continues. The main reason to visit is to explore the Slieve Bloom Mountains rising to the west. The town in spite of its name doesn't have a "mount" — it's from Irish Móinteach Mílic. That means "the bog next to a river" which, this being Ireland, doesn't much help you locate it.

Get in
Bus Éireann 73 trundles across the midlands from Waterford via Thomastown, Kilkenny, Carlow, Stradbally and Portlaoise to Mountmellick. It continues to Killeigh, Tullamore, Clara, Moate and Athlone. There are two M-Sa and one on Sunday.

Local Link Bus 558 from Portlaoise only runs on Tuesday.

Slieve Bloom Coach 841 runs three times M-Sa from Tullamore via Kilcormac, Kinnitty, Cadamstown, Clonaslea and Rosenallis to Mountmellick.

Mountmellick's is central on Market Street.

Portlaoise is the nearest railway station, with hourly trains from Dublin Heuston heading for Galway or Cork. It also has direct buses from Dublin Airport.

By road from Dublin follow N7 / M7 towards Portlaoise. Take Exit 15 at Emo and follow R422 west to Mountmellick.

The spur from the Grand Canal at Monasterevin via Portarlington to Mountmellick closed in 1960, so you can't get here by boat. The main canal and some of its branches have been restored for leisure boating but there are no plans to re-open this spur.

Get around
You need wheels to reach the hiking trails in the Slieve Bloom mountains.

See

 * Town centre of Mountmellick is 18th- to 19th-century low-rise, though mostly grey-harled or whitewashed rather than the usual multiple colours of an Irish small town. Its main O'Connell Square has a large metal "Christmas tree" erected each December.
 * St Joseph's is the Roman Catholic church on Sarsfield St.
 * Emo Court: see Portarlington for this grand neo-classical mansion. It's closed for restoration until summer 2024..
 * Emo Court: see Portarlington for this grand neo-classical mansion. It's closed for restoration until summer 2024..

Do

 * near Clonaslee has lowland walking trails around a lake. Brittas Castle was a 19th-century neo-gothic pile that burned down in 1942.
 * Hiking in the Slieve Bloom Mountains is the main reason to be here. Mountmellick has good access to the northeast slopes: park at . Easy trails from there are a 4-km walk along the River Barrow to Glenbarrow Waterfall, and the 10-km Old Mill Loop.

Buy

 * SuperValu is on Davitt St, southeast side of Mountmellick. It's open M-Sa 8AM-9PM, Su 8AM-8PM.

Eat

 * Chen's Chinese on Parnell St does takeaway daily 5PM-12:30AM. Four Seasons Chinese on Patrick St has similar hours.
 * Golden Grill on Patrick St and Roberto's on Sarsfield St do fish & chips, burgers and pizza.
 * Hare's Corner next to the museum is open daily 9AM-5PM.

Drink

 * Dowling's Bar is at 45 O'Moore St, Hollow Bar is on Church St, and Moloney's Gaelic Bar is at 27 Patrick St.
 * Lalor's Bar and Turley's Pub are 1 km east on Harbour St.
 * Rosenallis village has Poole's Tavern.
 * Clonaslee village has Mary Hickey's, Fallon's and Cosy Bar close together on Main St.

Sleep

 * There's no camping or caravan site nearby, the nearest is Streamtown in Roscrea.

Connect
As of June 2021, Mountmellick has 4G from all Irish carriers. There's mobile coverage west through Rosenallis and Clonaslee with Eir and Three, but no signal from Vodafone.

Go next

 * Portlaoise is a transport hub and has places to stay and eat; its sights (such as Rock of Dunamase) are some way out.
 * Portarlington is near the grand mansion of Emo Court, but that's closed for restoration until 2024.
 * Tullamore has two famous distilleries and is on the Grand Canal.
 * Kildare is in horse-rearing country, near Curragh racecourse.

title: Mountmellick


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Mount Merapi

Mount Merapi (Gunung Merapi, 2,911 m) in Central Java, is Indonesia's most active volcano. It looms over the cities of Yogyakarta and Solo (Surakarta). It is a decade volcano.

Understand
Literally "Fiery Mountain", Mount Merapi is the most active volcano in all Indonesia — no mean feat — and it has erupted at least 68 times since 1548. The volcano is thought to be largely responsible for the downfall of the Central Javanese Hindu Mataram kingdom in 1006 and the desertion of the huge temple complex at nearby Prambanan.

Recent eruptions include 1994 (64 killed), 2006 (there were no immediate deaths, but a prelude to an earthquake that killed over 5,000) and 2010 (300 dead).

Anyone thinking of climbing the mountain must first check if it is safe to do so. While climbing the mountain with a qualified guide is recommended it is not necessary or mandatory (locals will tell you otherwise in the interest of a quick buck) as the tracks to the summit are wide and clearly marked.

The volcano is always dangerous regardless of inactivity. There are exclusion zones around the volcano. Authorities can at appropriate times limit access to areas within 10 km. Mount Merapi is always monitored by observatories, even when inactive. There are 3 stages of warning; every stage can limit access several kilometres away from the volcano (10 kilometers in the highest stage). Climbing at non-active times with a local guide is always recommended.

Get in
There are more than three different routes to access Mount Merapi, though recent eruptions and the tendencies of the lahars, ash clouds, and other hazards have favoured the northern access point from Selo, which lies between Mount Merapi and Mount Merbabu.

Selo
Selo is the last village on the way to Merapi. A taxi from Yogyakarta airport to Selo and back will cost you around Rp 1,000,000. Most of the drivers will happily wait for you while you climb Merapi and will take you back to your hotel.

Selo has local guides who will take you to Merapi.

Alternatively you can hire a scooter in Yogyakarta around Rp 75,000/day and ride out to the summit. Ride north out of Yogya on Jl. Magelang for 45 min. When you reach Mungkid turn right onto Jalan Boyolali - Mungkid and head towards Ketep. At Ketep turn right and continue following the Jalan Bololali - Mungkid into Selo. From Selo ride up the steep road (on the right as you come into Selo) to the trail entrance where you can leave your scooter.

Kaliurang
Guide books in the 1960s and 1970s had regular references to Kaliurang-based guides. However, as the eruptions of the last 20 years have shot hot gases and eruptive materials in a more southward direction, Kaliurang is no longer the popular point of access it was in the 1970s and 1980s. In that era, Vogels homestay in Kaliurang was legendary for its hospitality and connection with walking up the southern slope to the peak. In the 1990s and 2000s Kaliurang has varied between being a part of a prohibited zone designated by government officials and not a very safe place to visit.

Other routes
Volcanology Observation posts existed in Dutch colonial times at Babadan (north-west slope) and more recently Plawangan (between Merapi and Kaliurang) - in most cases walking trails from the observation posts existed in the past. However due to the last 4 or 5 major eruptions, these points of access need clarification.

Get around
There are a few ojeks (motorcycle taxis) offering informal transport around the area.

In the villages around the base of Merapi, almost any vehicle you see on the road is a potential lift (for cash), so don't be shy.

Climbing Merapi
Trekking on and around Merapi is a popular activity (at least when the volcano isn't spewing out hot gas and ash). From Selo, the nearest village on the north slope, it is a 3 hr hike to the summit for the fit and healthy. For others it will take more than 4 hr to climb, and nearly the same time to get back down again.

Carry a small pack with some food, a good flash light, with spare batteries (available for purchase in Selo village), and at least 2.5 litres of water per person. Also make sure to bring warm clothes and jacket and perhaps gloves, since the wind and sweat can make you really cold.

The track to the top is a reasonable grade and is clearly defined and easy to follow. Once through the tree line the track is less defined and the final climb to the summit (after the memorial plaque) is a very steep scramble over loose and broken rock. While not in itself dangerous, do take your time on the last section. It is recommended you use GPS-based map offline apps in your phone like OsmAnd or Mapy.cz that already includes the tracks to the top of Merapi.

Most climbers start at about 00:30-01:00 to be sure of reaching the summit by sunrise at 05:30. Night climbing is wise in any case, as the upper reaches of the mountain are completely treeless and the sun can fry you to a crisp. The sunrise views across East Java are quite stunning.

Pay attention also on the way back, since the trail is extremely slippery and it's easy to fall down.

Organized trekking
Irregularly 9-km organized trekking is done along the Merapi slope, with more than 1,000 participants beginning and ending at tourism village Pulesari. The trekking fee is only Rp25,000 and includes a t-shirt, meals, insurance, and lottery coupons. For further information you may ask at Sleman Culture and Tourism Agency.

Visiting forest areas
Tlogo Nirmolo and Tlogo Muncar are two forest areas located at the south base of Mount Merapi, north of the Kaliurang village. There are some interesting and not too tough trekking you can do there. Ticket access allows visit of both parks during 1 day (you may need 3-4 hours to visit everything).

Ticket for locals or students (including foreigners that study in Indonesia or with kitas): Rp5,000. Ticket for foreigners: Rp150,000

Indications along the trails are quite good and you can't get lost, also you can use the offline maps like OSM and or Mapy.cz for better guide yourself in the trecking.

Tlogo Nirmolo
This forest includes has many Japanese caves (Goa Jepang) constructed during the second world war to be used by the Japanese army to protect from the allies attacks. There are a dozen of those not profound (10m max) caves and there is a man that can rent you some light torch (although using your phone's torch would is enough). It takes 30min trekking to the caves from the entrance.

Also a much steep track to the summit of the Plawangan hill is available (ask the entrance guard if the visibility is good) (40min).

Tlogo Muncar
This park is more visited by families and Indonesian couples since it includes a quite magnificent waterfall called Muncar (Air Terjun Muncar), after raining the waterfall is more interesting since it can bring lots of water. Also there is a 25min trekking to the top of the Pronojiwo hill with great views towards Merapi.

Seeing museums

 * In the nearby village of Kaliadem, there is a Merapi volcano museum and a jeep or motorbike trail (Kinahrejo) from where tourists can see the destructive forces that shaped the landscape from the last major eruption.

Other
The less active person should not feel left out as there are far less strenuous treks around the base of the mountain. Ask around in Selo.

Depending on the state of volcanic activity you may be able to witness molten lava flows way down the slopes of the mountain. Take local advice. Plawangan, an observation post of the Volcanological survey named after the hill, has a very good view of the southern slopes of the volcano when the air is clear and no eruptive gases heading south. Another hill just west of Plawangan is Turgo, where a mystical and significant Islamic saint is buried.

Buy
A signboard at the entrance of the Merapi Plateau reads: "Leave nothing but tracks, take nothing but photographs"

Eat
Selo and the surrounding area has plenty of Warungs and Bakso carts serving delicious Indonesian street food at very cheap prices.

There is a market (pasar) in front of the Kaliurang parking area where you can buy tempeh cooked in a unique way called jadah tempe just for Rp1,000 each.

Also on the road to Kaliurang, at the Pakem village, there is a banana market (5 or 6 stands on the right side) where you can find the cheapest bananas and avocados.

You will not find any upscale restaurants though.

Drink
Nothing except the local stuff. Carry your own bottles, at least 2.5 liters of water, since there are no sources on the way.

Homestays

 * Superman Homestay is next to Ratri Homestay.
 * Superman Homestay is next to Ratri Homestay.
 * Superman Homestay is next to Ratri Homestay.

Various other budget homestays around the area - simply ask around and you can get a room for less than Rp30,000 per person. Consider looking for a place with hot water, since it can get chilly in the village.

Camping
There are no explicit rules which prohibit camping on and around the mountain. You will need to bring in all your own equipment and you must keep yourself fully briefed with the latest safety reports. Also make sure you bring in enough water, as the springs and streams on the mountain are very sulphurous.

Stay safe
It is hard to think of many more dangerous volcanoes anywhere in the world. Always heed local advice from a guide, and it pays to check the bulletins at the Smithsonian Global Vulcanism Program and the Indonesian Geological Survey (in Indonesian).

Go next

 * Borobudur and Prambanan are two hours drive away.
 * Yogyakarta is also about two hours by car.
 * For more adventure, plan a climb to Mount Bromo for more active volcanoes.

title: Mount Merapi


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Mount Mulanje

Mulanje Mountain Forest Reserve is a park in Southern Malawi. It is named for Mount Mulanje, which, at 3002 m, is the highest mountain in southern central Africa.

Do
Its highest peak, Sapitwa, can be reached without technical climbing experience, but does involve some tough and strenuous hiking. Ideally you should set aside a few days to explore a section of the Mulanje Massiff, but a comprehensive exploration could easily take a week. Porters and guides can be hired at either InfoMulanje or the Likhubula Forestry Station.

Lodging

 * Likhubula Forestry Lodge - A delightful and inexpensive little cottage at the south-west base of the massif. The facilities are comfortable and clean and the services of a cook are available (but bring your own supplies). The Forestry Lodge is an ideal base for short day trips to the waterfall (about 90 minutes hike) and Likhubula rock pools (about 10 minutes). A longer trip (3-5 hours ascent depending on the route) can be taken in good weather to Chambe Peak and Chambe hut. From here you can plan longer hikes (at least 2 days) to the Lichenya Plateau and hut, and eventually to Sapitwa.
 * CCAP Guest House
 * Mulanje Motel

Backcountry
There are several huts on the massiff that provide basic bedding material and cooking facilities, but you need to bring your own supplies.

title: Mount Mulanje


text:
Mount Nimba Strict Nature Reserve

Mount Nimba Strict Nature Reserve covers parts of Côte d'Ivoire and Guinea. It is an endangered UNESCO World Heritage Site. The reserve covers significant portions of the Nimba Range, a geographically unique area with unusually rich flora and fauna, including exceptional numbers of single-site endemic species, such as viviparous toads, and horseshoe bats. Its highest peak is Mount Richard-Molard at 1,752 m (5,750 ft), which is the highest peak of both countries.

Understand
The nature reserve on the Guinean side has 13,000 hectares, while the Ivorian side has 5,000. The Biosphere Reserve (Guinea) has 17,000 hectares.

Mount Nimba lies in remote region along the tri-nation border of Guinea, Côte d'Ivoire, and Liberia, far from their capital cities. The Liberian part of the mountain is greatly degraded due to former mining activities. However, the Guinean half of the ridge is highly protected; and therefore this part is still characterized by intact montane ecosystems, and unique species assemblage (as well as the smallest, Ivorian section).

History
The Monte Nimba Integral Nature Reserve was declared in 1943 in Côte d'Ivoire and in 1944 in Guinea. The Guinean sector was internationally recognized as a Biosphere Reserve in 1980 and, in 1981, was inscribed by UNESCO on the list of World Heritage sites; the site was expanded in 1982 to include the Ivorian sector. Adjacent to these reservations, that of Liberia has already been proposed to be included as well.

The reserve was inscribed in 1992 on the List of World Heritage in Danger because of the proposal to grant an iron mine to an international consortium and the settlement of a large number of refugees in the Guinean part of the hill. Although the Guinean government created a "Mount Nimba Environmental Management Center" and the boundaries of the area were redefined, in 1999 the mine project was still standing, although outside the protected region. The government, as investors, assured the international community that they will make every effort to maintain the ecological integrity of the site.

Landscape
The reserve includes Mount Nimba, the highest mountain in Côte d'Ivoire, and Guinea (1752 meters). It is located on the border between the two countries. Mont Nimba lies between the tropical forest and the West African savannah zone. It is part of an archipelago of peaks and plateaus, a secluded refuge covered by Guinean montane forest at a higher elevation, which rises steeply above undulating lowland forest plains.

Flora and fauna
Mount Nimba is covered by dense forests, with mountain pastures at its foot. These habitats are especially rich in flora and fauna, with several endemic species such as the viviparous frog and chimpanzees that use stones as instruments.

The endangered pygmy hippopotamus, many species of monkeys, buffalo and duiker can also be found here. There are also said to be some herds of elephants.

Climate
Temperature changes extremely with altitude, with a daytime maximum ranging between 24 °C and 33 °C, and the nightly minimum can fall below 10 °C. Some parts of the reserve receive significantly less precipitation, due to rain-shadow effect of the high ridge. In general, southern slopes are moister than the leeward northern ones which are affected by dry Harmattan wind from the Sahara. The Nimba Range and the reserve have exceptional microclimatic diversity.

The wettest months are usually April to November (May to November on the peaks). There is marked fluctuation, but rainfall is usually heaviest from August to October. January is the driest month with an average rainfall of 20mm. In January and February, when dry, often heavily dusted winds blow from the desert. During most of the year, except in the dry season, a dense cloud cover above 850 m develops daily and covers half the mountain.

Get in
To visit the strict nature reserve is the best choice from Guinea, where a local tour operator organizes guided tours from Conakry.

title: Mount Nimba Strict Nature Reserve


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Mount Olive

Mr. Olive is a city in Morris County in the Skylands region of New Jersey. It consists of two sub-regions just south of Route 80 in the western part of the county. Flanders is located around Route 206,  and Budd Lake is named for the lake with the same name along Route 46, which leads into Long Valley and Hackettstown in Warren County.

Go next
Route 206 goes north through Andover and Newton to cross the border at Milford, Pennsylvania, and south through Chester, Bridgewater, Princeton, Trenton and points further south than that.

Route 46 is goes east to west almost all the way from New York City to Pennsylvania, intersecting with Interstate 80 at several points along the way.

I-80 goes west into Pennsylvania, and then all the way across the continent. Mt. Olive is a good starting point for hitchhikers looking to go west.

title: Mount Olive


text:
Mount Olive (Illinois)

Mount Olive is a city in Central Illinois that has a population of just over 2000.

title: Mount Olive (Illinois)


text:
Mount Osore

Mount Osore (恐山 Osorezan) is a temple and miniature wasteland in the middle of the Shimokita Peninsula in Aomori, Japan.

Understand
According to Japanese tradition, Mount Osore — literally "Dread Mountain" — is the gateway to Hell, where souls pause on their way to the underworld. A barren volcanic wasteland of howling winds and bubbling sulphur pits, the origin of the legend is easy to understand.

Mount Osore is not an actual mountain, but the area is surrounded by a number of picturesque peaks.

When to go
The temple is only open to the public from May 1st to October 31st, before the harsh winter sets in. The whole area of interest is within the temple compound which closes early (probably at 7 PM) so make sure you arrive in time.

Get in
Most visitors arrive by bus from Mutsu. A rarely-used road (not served by public transport) also links to the Yagen Valley.

If you are driving, take Rte 279 or Rte 338 towards Mutsu. Follow the blue signs which will have "Osore-zan" written on them and will lead you straight to the site. Osore-zan is about a 2-hour drive from Aomori.

Another alternative is to hitchhike to the temple from Mutsu; locals should be able to point out the access road, which is marked by signs in only a few scattered places. During vacation periods, traffic to the temple is fairly heavy and finding a ride is not too difficult.

Admission is ¥500 for adults and ¥100 for children.

Get around
Your only option for getting around is on foot.

See

 * Bodaiji Temple (菩提寺, also referred to as Entsuji), run by the Soto Zen sect, is built around a number of volcanic cauldrons (Jp. jigoku, literally "hells"), bubbling in all sorts of unnatural shades from canary yellow to blood red. There are also many, many offerings to the souls of the dead scattered around the area, including tiny Jizo statues wearing bibs and piles of pebbles built (or so they say) by the souls of children who died before their parents.  Entrance to the temple costs ¥500 (including a dip in the baths, see Do).
 * The small Sanzu River (三途の川 sanzu no kawa) is the Japanese equivalent of the river Styx. The river is crossed by a picturesque arched red bridge which souls have to cross to escape.
 * Lake Usoriyama (宇曽利山湖), by the temple and the sink of the river, is a volcanic crater with (on a sunny day) an almost deceptively attractive-looking white sand beach... but the water, full of sulfuric runoff, is far too poisonous to sustain any life.

Do

 * Take a free dip in the holy (if somewhat stinky) waters in the bathhouses right after the temple entrance.
 * The rather somber Osorezan Taisai (恐山大祭) festival is held between July 20 and 24. During the festival, traditional mediums known as itako, traditionally all blind women (today many are not blind), channel the spirits of dead people (kuchiyose) to relatives.
 * The bus from Mutsu stops half-way up the mountain to give passengers a chance to taste water from a roadside spring. The one-way fare is ¥750.
 * Entrance to the temple compound is ¥500 for one adult. It is possible to stay at the temple for ¥12000 including two meals.
 * There is little to see at the lake shore outside the main temple entrance; the temple grounds also include part of the lake shore further on, where you will find the piles of stones. The best option is to make immediately for the temple grounds, although there are toilets and vending machines outside.

Buy, eat & drink
There are a number of small restaurants and souvenir shops outside the temple.

Sleep
The temple offers lodging for pilgrims (¥10,000-15,000 with meals), tel. 0175-22-3825. However, unless you like the pervasive smell of rotten eggs, you might wish to stay in Mutsu or Yagen instead.

Stay safe
Due to intense volcanic activity sulphur dioxide and other gases are abundant, so the entire area can smell like rotten eggs. Soil near some of the cauldrons may not be stable, and the liquids inside are literally boiling. Heed the warning signs, do not cross the ropes, and head out if you start to get a headache or feel sick.

title: Mount Osore


text:
Mount Ostrog

Mount Ostrog is a monastery and site of pilgrimage in Central Montenegro.

Understand
It is a monastery of the Serbian Orthodox Church situated high up against an almost vertical background rock from which there is a beautiful view of the valley.

Ostrog monastery is one of the most frequently visited in the Balkans and the most popular pilgrimage place in Montenegro. It represents the meeting place of all confessions: the Orthodox, the Catholics and the Muslims. According to the stories of pilgrims, by praying by his body, many have been cured and helped in lessening the difficulties in their lives.

It is dedicated to Saint Basil of Ostrog, who was buried here. It is traditional for pilgrims to walk the 3 km from the lower monastery to the upper monastery barefoot. Before entering the Church of the Presentation to pray before Saint Basil of Ostrog, pilgrims make a donation of clothing, blankets or consumables like soap for the monks.

It is a great experience to stay here overnight, e.g. in the Monastery's own hostel.

By train
The monastery is not far from the rail line that links Podgorica with Nikšić.

Trains are rather infrequent (5 per day, each way), so you should plan accordingly by talking into account the walking time between the station and the monastery. Official timetable is found here. Train ticket from Podgorica is.

Get off at Ostrog station (about 45 minutes from Podgorica) and follow the path that crosses the rail line 200 m away. From there take a left and follow the hiking path with signs "Ostrog" or "ОСТРОГ". The hike is 2 km to the base monastery and main car park, and 3.5 km to the cliff monastery. The hike up is pretty steep but manageable, the path goes through a beautiful forest with plenty of shade.

You won't be able to buy a ticket back at Ostrog station, but the train conductor will sell you one on board.

By bus
You can take a bus to Nikšić, they run from Podgorica or from Budva via Podgorica. Tell the driver you are going to the Ostrog Monastery, he will stop in the correct place. From there, you can take a cab for around €10, you can bargain, or hike. It is 8 km of a beautiful walk. It is not difficult as there is a car road, but not recommended when it is very warm. The final part of the way are stone stairs.

Get around
Everything is walkable, but there are shuttles from the main parking near the hostel to the entrance of the monastery.

See and do
The most interesting thing here is the monastery placed at Mount Ostrog.

Buy
All the usual religious items can be bought at the monastery.

Eat
Eating options are few, but surprisingly good. Aprt from regular restaurants, the monastery provides food for the people staying in their hostel.

Go next

 * Žabljak – For hiking to the Black Lake
 * Podgorica – As a jump-off point to other destinations along the coast or northeast, e.g. Biogradska
 * Nikšić – As a jump-off point to Kotor, Žabljak or Bosnia

title: Mount Ostrog


text:
Mount Pearl

Mount Pearl is the second largest city in Newfoundland and Labrador, with a population of over 23,000 (2016). The city is a twin sister to the provincial capital St. John's, and has grown from a playground for the summering rich into a thriving city.

History
Mount Pearl dates back to 1829, when Commander James Pearl and his wife, Lady Anne Pearl, arrived in Newfoundland with a Crown grant of 1000 acres (4 km²) of land, a reward for Commander Pearl's 27 years of distinguished service in the Royal Navy. In 1830, Commander Pearl built a house upon the most elevated section of his estate and named it Mount Cochrane in honour of then-governor Sir Thomas Cochrane. After the governor left Newfoundland, Pearl renamed the site Mount Pearl.

In the 1930s and 1940s, Mount Pearl became the meeting place of affluent members of society and lovers of horseracing. A large open air gallery, with benches for spectators to view surrounding lands was erected on "The Mount" in the 1940s. Horseracing continued to be prominent and Mount Pearl began to develop into something of a summer resort for St. John’s residents. Increased population during summer months led to increased population year round and eventual residential and industrial development.

By car
Highway 1 (Trans-Canada Highway) travels through Mount Pearl. The highway connects the west end of Newfoundland at St. John's with the east end of Newfoundland in Port aux Basques, where travelers can take a ferry to Nova Scotia.

By foot
Mount Pearl is a 9-km walk southwest of St. John's (about 2 hr).

Get around
Metrobus routes 21 and 22 serve Mount Pearl (see "Get in").

See taxi listings for St. John's.

See
If you're in town for City Days or the Frosty Festival, check out these annual events.

Do
There are over sixty kilometers of trails that make for great walks and hikes. Enjoy the plentiful parks and playgrounds, too.

Go next

 * Visit St. John's, Mount Pearl's larger twin city

title: Mount Pearl


text:
Mount Pelion

Mount Pelion (a.k.a. Pelio or Pilio or Pelium; Greek, Modern: Πήλιο, Ancient/Katharevousa: Πήλιον) forms a hook-like peninsula between the Pagasetic Gulf and the Aegean Sea.

The mountains are entirely forested, with beech, oak, maple and chestnut trees. Pelion is a tourist attraction throughout the year: the mountain includes trails and sidewalks for walking within small and large beaches with sand or pebbles. Modern Pelio has twenty-four villages built with traditional Pelian architecture.

Located near the city of Volos, in the region of Thessaly.

Regions

 * Northeast Pelion, (Agios Ioannis, Horefto, Mouresi, Tsagkarada, Zagora)
 * Northwest Pelion, (Afisos, Kato Gatzea, Agios Georgios Nileas, Portaria, Milies, Kala Nera)
 * South Pelion, (Platanias, Xynovrissi, Paltsi, Milina, Argalasti, Horto, Trikeri, Agia Kyriaki, Paleo Trikeri)

Villages

The main villages in Pelion are:

Understand
Many of the villages in Pelion trace their history to the beginning of the fifteenth century, when the entirety of Thessaly was under Ottoman rule. Many ethnic Greeks moved to Mount Pelion for security. Villages developed around monasteries, and their growth benefitted from privileges granted by the Ottoman authorities. The region of Pelion was self-administered, and the taxes payable by the villages were much lower compared to other parts of Greece. This contributed to the economic prosperity and extensive trade links of some villages. Schools were established with the fruits of local traders' prosperity and global experience. These schools would become pivotal in the role of the villages of Pelion in the Greek Enlightenment, which foreshadowed the 1821 Greek Revolution.

Get in
Entrance to the Pelion is broadly speaking via Volos, which acts as a gateway to the region. Volos is well connected to airports in Athens and Thessaloniki (as well as the far smaller municipal airport) and the wider Greek highway network. To enter the Pelion from Volos, one can either drive down the 34A or the 34 main roads, or take a coach from Volos Interurban Bus Terminal ("Yperastiko KTEL") (KTEL Volou). Details on buses, can be found online here.

Get around

Whilst it is possible to travel by coach, they are few and far between. The easiest option is to travel by car, unless you fancy a hike!

See
Makrinitsa, Portaria, Milies, Vizitsa, Tsagarada, Zagora are picturesque villages with traditional architecture: magnificent large old stone houses with wall decorations and slate roofs.

Do

 * Walk along the recognized hiking routes.
 * There are some great beaches on Pelion. Northwest Pelion has smaller sandy beaches on the Pagasetic Gulf, with calmer, warmer waters. Beaches in Northeast Pelion are also sandy with clear water and there can be big waves. The pick of the bunch is Potistika beach.
 * Take the little train of Pelion, a traditional steam train from Kato Lechonia to Milies that slowly rolls through the lush Pelion terrain.
 * Ski at Chania.
 * Go horse riding around Milies
 * Take a boat cruise from Kala Nera.

Eat
The most famous local dish, is called spetsofai (Greek: Σπετσοφάϊ), it has local sausage and peppers with tomato sauce. Usually spicy.

Stay safe

 * Drive cautiously and considerately. The roads in Pelion, most especially on the Aegean side, are often narrow and have a surprising number of hairpin turns and blind corners. Farmers will often park their pickups partly in the road at inconvenient spots. Pedestrians, including school children and the elderly, are frequently on the road at all times of year. Cyclists are becoming more common.
 * Weather conditions should always be taken into account when driving, hiking or swimming. Thick fog can hamper driving conditions. Rain, even in summer, is not uncommon and can be torrential; roads do suffer from mudslides, most often in autumn and winter. In winter, heavy, sustained snowfall is common not only at the higher elevations but also in the villages; snow chains should be carried if you wish to use the part of the national road that crosses at Chania.

title: Mount Pelion


text:
Mount Pleasant

There is more than one place called Mount Pleasant:

Canada

 * Vancouver/Mount Pleasant — a district of Vancouver

Falkland Islands

 * RAF Mount Pleasant — the only international airport in the archipelago.

United States of America

 * Mount Pleasant (Iowa) — a town in Iowa
 * Mount Pleasant (Michigan) — a town in Michigan
 * Mount Pleasant (Pennsylvania) — a town in Pennsylvania
 * Mount Pleasant (South Carolina) — a town in South Carolina
 * Mount Pleasant (Texas) — a town in Texas
 * Mount Pleasant (Utah) — a town in Utah

title: Mount Pleasant


text:
Mount Pleasant (Michigan)

Mount Pleasant is a city in Central Michigan.

Get in
US-127 runs just east of the city, connecting it with Lansing to the south and Clare to the north. M-20 connects Mount Pleasant with Big Rapids to the west and Midland to the east.

Get around
Mount Pleasant is a very walkable city for those with functioning legs, with two new pedestrian "islands" on Mission Street and High Street. Otherwise, the easiest way to get around is via car, although several taxicabs are available. Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort is three miles east of downtown.

See
There are plenty of parks in the city or nearby. As an extension of the Chipp-A-Water Park, a portion is deemed a "natural area" and thus grows naturally without any human interference. It is used for study by environmental students at CMU. There is also a Mill Pond Park and Island Park, home to a farmer's market. Many other parks within a 20-mile diameter exist as well; these are walkable from downtown.

Do
Mount Pleasant has four city parks on the Chippewa River: Nelson Park, Millpond Park, Island Park, and Chipp-A-Waters park. Either of these parks has access to the river, which is nice to kayak or canoe on.

Eat
Restaurants in Mt. Pleasant are more or less divided into three separate sections of town: The southern end of town, near the campus of Central Michigan University, the central downtown business district, separated from the campus by a few miles of residences, and the northern part of town, closer to the nearby Soaring Eagle Casino and Resort. Fast food and pizza establishments are popular near campus; smaller, more unique restaurants are downtown, and chain restaurants dominate the north end.

Mt. Pleasant has dozens of fast-food, pizza and chain restaurants. Driving down Pickard Street, which marks the informal northern edge of town, you'll encounter IHOP, Ponderosa, Applebee's, McDonald's, Culver's, Burger King, and many more. South of downtown, near campus, you'll find predominantly fast-food places like McDonald's, Burger King, Wendy's, Taco Bell and plenty of pizza places lurk just off Mission Street or near campus.

Drink
Owing to its high concentration of college students, Mount Pleasant has many bars.

If you're staying out of downtown Mt. Pleasant, then you can visit CoCo Joes on Bluegrass Rd, or O'Kellys/Wayside, located on the corner of Mission and Broomfield.

If you're going into downtown Mt. Pleasant, you have many options, only one of which is listed below:

title: Mount Pleasant (Michigan)


text:
Mount Pleasant (North Carolina)

Mount Pleasant is a town in Piedmont region of North Carolina.

Get in

 * From Charlotte, take I-85 N, take exit 48 for I-485 S, then take I-485 to exit 33 for Hwy 49 to Harrisburg. Pass Harrisburg and continue for about 14 miles.

Buy
Shop in nearby Harrisburg (North Carolina)

title: Mount Pleasant (North Carolina)


text:
Mount Pleasant (South Carolina)

Mount Pleasant is a large town in the Greater Charleston region of South Carolina. The population of the town has exploded, making it a very popular bedroom community of the city of Charleston.

From Charleston

 * Take US-17 North out of Charleston across the Ravenel Bridge.
 * Or, take I-26 W out of Charleston to I-526 E

From Myrtle Beach

 * US-17 S from Myrtle Beach through Georgetown and to Mount Pleasant.

From I-95

 * Take I-26 E to I-526 E. (About 40 miles from I-95)

Do

 * - located in Mt. Pleasant

Eat
Although nearby Charleston is more well known for its restaurants, Mount Pleasant has its fair share of great places to eat as well.

Drink
Mt Pleasant features Shem Creek and several bar and grills side by side. Red's Icehouse and Vickery's are the most popular.

title: Mount Pleasant (South Carolina)


text:
Mount Pleasant (Utah)

Mt. Pleasant is in Central Utah. Settled the first time in 1852 when a few pioneers left Manti and settled on the Sanpitch River west of the present site of Mt. Pleasant. Due to problems with the Indians, the settlers left and went back to Ephraim, where they stayed until 1859 when they returned and settled the present site.

In the 1890s Mt. Pleasant could claim more liberal organizations and saloons than any other settlement in the county. In 1875 a Presbyterian minister came to town and started to teach school. This was the start of the Wasatch Academy, the oldest continually operating secondary school in Utah. The campus of Wasatch is today listed on the National Register of Historic Places, as is the Mt. Pleasant Main Street.

Mt. Pleasant is sometimes referred to as "Hub City" because of its near exact positioning in the center of the state.

Get in
To get to Mt. Pleasant from Salt Lake City, head south on I-15 and take Exit 261 at Spanish Fork. Then follow Highway 89 south to Mt. Pleasant. To get to Mt. Pleasant from the South, take I-70 Exit 56 at Salina and follow Highway 89 north.

Do

 * Maple Canyon –Conglomerate rock climbing. West of Moroni
 * Maple Canyon –Conglomerate rock climbing. West of Moroni

title: Mount Pleasant (Utah)


text:
Mount Popa

Fifty kilometres southeast of Bagan in Central Myanmar at the base of Mount Popa is a solitary peak with a temple/shrine topped by gold stupas.

Understand
There is a difference between the peak of Mount Popa itself and the temple/shrine on top of the cliff many pilgrims long for.

The Popa Taung Kalat shrine is the favoured home of 37 Mahagiri Nats or animist spirit entities, statues of which can be found at its base. The worship of the Nats dates back to the original religion of the Burmese people prior to the arrival of Buddhism, and have since been incorporated into Burmese Buddhist practices. These spirits were once so important to the country's early kings that it was essential for them to consult the Nats before commencing their reign.

Popa means "flower" in Sanskrit and you will find bottled flowers that you can purchase as offerings at the temple.

Get in
The common transport hub for Mount Popa is the nearby town.

 * Bagan – Most people visit Mount Popa as a day trip from nearby Bagan. It's only about 50 km away, but due to the conditions of the road and vehicles, it will take at least 90 min to get there. Local pickup along the main road by the Nyaung U Highway Bus Terminal: 1,000-1,500 kyat one-way. Do not listen to locals, especially taxi drivers, that try to tell you that local transport does not run in this direction anymore. Organised tour by your hotel or at the market in Nyaung U per person: 4-6,000 kyat return. By taxi, including the added benefit of being able to stop and visit the few villages along the way: 30,000 kyat.
 * Magway – A transport hub for Mrauk U and Pyay. Via Kyauk Padaung. 2-3 hr.
 * Mandalay – Via Meiktila and Kyauk Padaung. 4-6 hr, 5-6,000 kyat.
 * Yangon – Several buses run to Kyauk Padaung since the city is a junction between Bagan and other major cities. One bus is at 18:00, 10½ hr, 10,000 kyat.
 * Mrauk U & Sittwe – You can take a direct bus to Mandalay (08:00 & 10:00, 19 hr) going by Kyauk Padaung or take a bus to Magway (09:00 & 12:00, 16 hr) and catch onward transport, pickup/van or another bus. Make sure the bus really goes by Kyauk Padaung, especially when entering the bus. Often the ticket seller and the bus are different companies, because passengers are shuffled around depending on supply and demand of buses. The rest of the way from Kyauk Padaung, take one of the many pilgrim pickups for 300-500 kyat. 19-20 hr, 24-28,000 kyat.

In addition, the Bagan overnight train from Yangon also stops in Kyauk Padaung. Departing at 16:00 from Yangon and arriving about 07:40. in Kyauk Padaung the next day. Fares are: upper class sleeper 16,500 kyat, upper class seat 12,000 kyat, ordinary class seat 4,500 kyat.

There should also be a train from Pyay, but it could be seasonal. Ask at the local railway station.

Get around
Most people are dropped off in the at the junction near the highway. There are many shops, some accommodation and lots of transportation options up to the available here. Walking up the 3.4 km to the pilgrim village and the shrine can take up to an hour. Motorbike taxis demand 1,000 kyat, but a shared ride should not be more than 300-500 kyat, or even free if you look like an interesting sight yourself.

A more convenient walk and way up to the shrine, coming from Kyauk Padaung, is directly from the (use the GPS marker). The junction is about 300 m before the road winds uphill towards the pilgrim village. When your transport out of Kyauk Padaung reaches the 180° turning road uphill, get off and walk back a few dozen metres and then straight up to the mountain. From Bagan this is not an option.

Buy
Mount Popa, and especially the shrine, is primarily a pilgrimage destination for Myanmar people, so the some souvenirs are targeted them rather than foreign tourists. Common things sold are religious items, traditional medicine, flower bulbs and flowers for the shrines. You can purchase sweets and liquor from stalls along the road to the mountain.

Eat
There are a few local food stalls available in the village at the base of the mountain as well as the pilgrim village at the foot of the shrine, and there are many fruit vendors. A more sophisticated menu is offered at Popa Mountain Resort that also caters for western tourists.

Drink
Not really an evening destination. However, the convenient location of the shrine allows for a great sunset experience.

Sleep

Go next
Most of the following transport from Mount Popa is via Kyauk Padaung (300-500 kyat with local transport), except for local transport to Bagan.

 * Bagan – One of the most famous attractions in Myanmar and probably Southeast Asia. 1½ hr, 1,000-1,500 kyat.
 * Magway – A transport hub for trips to Mrauk U and Pyay. 2-3 hr.
 * Mandalay – Famous for the U Bein Bridge, the Buddha face washing, as well as the nearby mountains by train. Buses from Kyauk Padaung go through Meiktila. 4-6 hr, 5-6,000 kyat.
 * Yangon – A least one daily bus. 10½ hr, 24,000 kyat.
 * Mrauk U & Sittwe – Mrauk U is famous for its ancient sights of the last great kingdom and its traditional, surrounding Chin Villages. There are direct buses from Kyauk Padaung, mostly coming from Mandalay, that go to Mrauk U. You can also take a bus to Magway and switch to the bus to Mrauk U (or Sittwe) near the bridge across the Irrawaddy river or in front of the K.H.M. Fashion store. 18-22 hr, 25-27,000 kyat.

In addition, the Bagan-Yangon overnight train also stops in Kyauk Padaung. Departing at 18:00 from Kyauk Padaung and arriving about 10:30 in Yangon the next day. Fares are: upper class sleeper: 16,500 kyat, upper class seat: 12,000 kyat, ordinary class seat: 4,500 kyat.

There might be a train to Pyay; ask at the Kyauk Padaung railway station.

title: Mount Popa


text:
Mount Pulag National Park

Mount Pulag (or sometimes Mount Pulog) is the third highest mountain in the Philippines. It is Luzon’s highest peak at 2,922 m above sea level. The borders between the provinces of Benguet, Ifugao, and Nueva Vizcaya meet at the mountain's peak.

Understand
It is the third highest mountain in the Philippines, after Mount Apo and Mount Dulang-Dulang.

History
On February 20, 1987, a large part of the mountain was designated as a National Park with Proclamation No. 75. This act aims to preserve the environment around the mountain due to threats from increased development such as conversion to agricultural lands, timber production, hunting, and increased tourism.

The National Park is inhabited by different tribes such as the Ibalois, Kalanguya, Kankana-eys, Karao, Ifugaos and the Ilocanos. The indigenous people of Benguet consider the mountain to be a sacred place.

Flora and fauna
The mountain hosts 528 documented plant species. It is the natural habitat of the endemic Dwarf Bamboo, (Yushania niitakayamensis) and the Benguet pine (Pinus insularis) which dominates the areas of Luzon tropical pine forests found on the mountainside. Among its native wildlife are 33 bird species and several threatened mammals such as the Philippine Deer, Giant Bushy-Tailed Cloud Rat (“bowet”) and the Long-Haired Fruit Bat. Mount Pulag is the only place that hosts the 4 Cloud Rat species. It has one of the most diverse biodiversity of the Philippines, with the newly found (since 1896) 185-g Dwarf cloud rat, Carpomys melanurus, a rare breed (endemic to the Cordillera) and the Koch pitta bird among its endangered denizens.

Climate
Because of its high elevation, the climate on Mount Pulag is temperate with rains predominating the whole year. Rainfall on the mountain averages 4,489 mm yearly with August being the wettest month with an average rainfall of 1,135 mm. Snow has not fallen on its top in at least the past 100 years.

At nighttime, temperatures can reach near-freezing levels.

Get in
It is possible to make arrangements for jeepneys from Baguio to take you directly to the Badabak Ranger Station. This significantly cuts climbing time, and it makes possible a two-day Pulag climb.

Fees and permits
The national park is open throughout the year. A permit is necessary and can be obtained on-site.

See
The summit views of Pulag are breath-taking. On a blessed time, seas of clouds form beneath, covering everything but the highest points in the Cordilleras.

Do
As the highest mountain in Luzon, Mount Pulag attracts a lot of mountain climbers. Highlights of the climb include the montane forests and the grassland summit with its "sea of clouds" phenomenon. There are four major trails up the summit: the Ambangeg, Akiki, and Tawangan trails from Benguet and the Ambaguio trail from Nueva Vizcaya. These trails are managed by the Mount Pulag National Park, under the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.

Depending on the trail, a climb may take 1–4 days, with the easiest being the Ambangeg trail. The difficulty level of the climb ranges from 3 to 7 out of 9 in the local classification system. No special equipment is required for the climb.

Camping
There are a few campsites to choose from: Camp 1 is still within the mossy forest area; in Camp 2 the grassland is just beginning (2600+ MASL). There is also another campsite which goes beyond the summit, on the way to the Akiki trail. This is the saddle campsite and is preferred by those who want close proximity to the summit. Camp 2 is the most advisable campsite, with a close water source, latrines (work in progress), nice views, and more manageable weather conditions. However, the saddle campsite, being very the near the summit, takes you as close to the sky as possible. Either way, temperatures can plummet to near-freezing levels.

title: Mount Pulag National Park


text:
Mount Putuo

Mount Putuo (普陀山 Pǔtuóshān) is an island and National Park in Zhoushan, near Ningbo in Zhejiang province, and derives its name from a sacred Buddhist mountain at the center of the island.

Understand
Putuoshan reaches only 297 meters above sea level and is 5 km east of Zhoushan island in Zhejiang province. The mountain is dedicated to Guanyin, often known in English as the Goddess of Mercy or the Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara.

This is by far the lowest and among the most accessible of the four sacred mountains of Chinese Buddhism (the others being Emeishan, Wutaishan, and Jiuhuashan), and because it's a small, forested island, the space available for visitors is somewhat constrained. This can make it quite crowded and far from tranquil, especially around the most famous temples. However, the island still retains a special atmosphere and natural surroundings, and seems more laid-back than many similar tourist destinations. With roughly 80 temples on the island, of which only about three are famous, it's easy to find more-obscure, less-crowded options.

There is an accommodation bureau at the port. The staff are extremely helpful, and provide reliable information on hotels and guest houses on the island. During national holidays and the nights before Guanyin's three birthdays it is advisable to make prior room reservations, but this is not generally necessary at other periods.

Another tourist office is on the main square near Puji temple, and this is a good place to pick up free English-language guides and maps.

By boat
You can only reach this island by ferry, but you have several options for where to embark. Ferries arrive at the (普陀山客运站) at the south end of the island.

By Bus
Most buses arrive at the Zhujiamen ferry terminal. Shenjiamen is also an option, but the is several km from the ferry terminal.

Combined bus+ferry tickets are available to (and presumably also from) Ningbo South bus station, for ¥100, with similar options available for Hangzhou and Shanghai. This includes the ¥30 fast ferry to Zhujiajian. These tickets are sold just to the right of the main ticket office at the Putuoshan ferry terminal, and can save some hassle.

Ningbo has regular buses from the Ningbo South bus station to Shenjiamen (¥56, 2 hours) or Zhujiamen (¥72, 2 hours).

Shanghai has several departures daily from Shanghai Sightseeing Bus Center, Shanghai Nanpu Bridge Bus Center and Shanghai South Long Distance Bus Station (¥138/4-5 hours).

From Hangzhou, there are buses from the south bus station (407 qiutaolu 秋涛路407) to the bus station on Zhoushan (shenjiamen 沈家门). Buses depart approximately once per hour, take 3-4 hours, and cost ¥70.

Fees and permits
No matter how you arrive, it costs ¥160 to land on Putuoshan as the whole island is a National Park. This is collected in a large hall as you leave the ferry dock. If the accommodation options on the island are too extortionate for your tastes, you can get free re-entry if you register your face at the "visa office" on the right after leaving the ticket hall. You will then need to find the facial recognition gates when you return the next day.

Unlike at many other Chinese national parks, transportation around the island and to Luojiashan is not included in the ticket. The efficient shuttle bus network links all the island's main attractions, and charges either ¥5 or 10 per ride, depending on the distance. The destinations and costs are posted at each bus stop. The return trip to Luojiashan costs ¥70.

Get around
As many bus stops are some distance from the temples, be prepared for some long walks. Furthermore, as bus signs are usually in Chinese characters and pinyin only, it's advisable to write down the name of your destination before you set out.

If weather permits, the island is best explored on foot. This allows you to avoid the crowds and also to visit pavilions and temples that are off the beaten track. The return journey can be made by bus.

Of course, riding a mountain-bike would also be a great option, no cars, great scenery... But you can not hire bikes on the island. Too bad!

Luojia Shan
A small island to the southeast of Putuo Shan which resembles someone sleeping on their back, (洛迦山) can be seen from Bukenqu Temple. An old saying states: 'if you don't visit Luojia Shan, the pilgrimage to Putuo Shan is incomplete'. The ferry to Luojia Shan costs ¥70 return, and departs from the, near the main ferry terminal. There are at least two sailings per day, at least one in the morning and one in the afternoon, and the journey takes about 20 minutes. At busy times, the ferries may run every 20-30 minutes or there may be one or two extra sailings, so check the schedule or ask. The ferry stays at Luojia Shan for two hours before returning to Putuo Shan, so it is important to keep your eye on the time. Accessing nearly anything interesting on Luojia Shan requires passing over the main ridge, so be prepared for some stair climbing. The island has no food or accommodation, nor any commercial activity at all, aside from four drink vending machines which do not accept cash or cards.

Do

 * Relax There are two beautiful beaches near to the main hotels on Putuoshan, namely and . The former has facilities such as lockers and showers, lounge chairs and parasols for hire, with quadbikes and banana boats also available. At night, Hundred Step Beach is sometimes used to host karaoke parties. Thousand Step Beach is longer and more peaceful but no facilities are available and signs forbid swimming. Another beach immediately south of Hundred Step Beach is closed to the public. The, despite having a village next to it, is not as developed or patrolled as Hundred Step Beach.
 * Relax There are two beautiful beaches near to the main hotels on Putuoshan, namely and . The former has facilities such as lockers and showers, lounge chairs and parasols for hire, with quadbikes and banana boats also available. At night, Hundred Step Beach is sometimes used to host karaoke parties. Thousand Step Beach is longer and more peaceful but no facilities are available and signs forbid swimming. Another beach immediately south of Hundred Step Beach is closed to the public. The, despite having a village next to it, is not as developed or patrolled as Hundred Step Beach.
 * Relax There are two beautiful beaches near to the main hotels on Putuoshan, namely and . The former has facilities such as lockers and showers, lounge chairs and parasols for hire, with quadbikes and banana boats also available. At night, Hundred Step Beach is sometimes used to host karaoke parties. Thousand Step Beach is longer and more peaceful but no facilities are available and signs forbid swimming. Another beach immediately south of Hundred Step Beach is closed to the public. The, despite having a village next to it, is not as developed or patrolled as Hundred Step Beach.

Buy
Near Puji Temple there is a night market that sells a variety of souvenirs, statues and raw seafood, a number of convenience stores, and a few restaurants offering inexpensive meals.

Eat

 * Temple food. Inexpensive (¥5-12) vegetarian fare is available at many of the temples. Options are available for all three meals, but lunch is the easiest to find. Lunch can start as early as 10:30 and ends at 11.30-12.00, and dinner will be 16.00-17.00 or 16:30-17:30. Breakfast is the hardest to find, and will be finished by 07:30.
 * Vegetarian. As a Buddhist island, most of the island's restaurants offer a good selection of vegetarian dishes.
 * Chinese dishes. The hotels near Puji Temple have restaurants that are open to non-residents.
 * Seafood. The, south of the ferry terminal, boasts many seafood restaurants with an excellent fresh selection. Prices are 20-25% dearer than the mainland, but the quality of shellfish and fish is first rate. The non-Chinese speaker will have to point to the display and hope for the best.

There are few English menus available and most staff do not speak any English, even in the larger hotels and restaurants. Don`t forget your English-Chinese dictionary or translation app, especially for food with Chinese characters. Western food is extremely limited on the island -- there is a small /coffee shop on the main road to Puji Temple, near the tunnel. If you are lucky you may get some toast for breakfast in the larger hotels.

Drink

 * Putuoshan Beer is served in a number of the hotel restaurants and is worth a drink if only for novelty value.

Lodging
If you have a hotel booking you may be met at the wharf by a hotel minibus. Look out for placards in the bus park. There is an information/hotel booking desk at the Wharf, otherwise it is a short walk to the Puji Temple central area, where there is another information centre.

Depending on your level of desired hospitality, hotel rooms are available on the island for a variety of prices, ranging from ¥300 to many thousands of ¥ per night. On weekends you pay more, up to double the price. Many of the houses and apartments on the island operate as guesthouses toward the lower end of the price range, but these are not allowed to take foreigners. If the prices seem too high, consider staying in Shenjiamen and taking the ferry (see information about validating your ticket for free re-entry under Fees and Permits). Even cheaper accommodation is available in Zhujiamen, but it's in the centre of the island, far from the ferry.

If splashing out at the upper end of the price range is your thing, see the five-star Landison Hotel.

Camping
Not allowed in the park.

Backcountry
This park doesn't have a backcountry.

Stay safe
Some of the trails can be slippery when wet. Several parts of the island are military facilities which are best not entered or photographed.

Go next

 * Ningbo, Shanghai, and the rest of Zhoushan are within easy reach of Mount Putuo.

title: Mount Putuo


text:
Mount Rainier National Park

Mount Rainier National Park is a national park located in the state of Washington, some 54 miles (87 km) south-east of Seattle. Established in 1899 and 368 miles² (235,625 acres or 954 km²) in size, the National Park is centered on the spectacular cone of Mount Rainier, a massive active stratovolcano high. Mount Ranier is a decade volcano, considered quite dangerous because it is close to Seattle and Tacoma, and it is encased in over of snow and ice, enough to cause massive flooding and dangerous lahars if there were a large eruption.

History
The park was established as America's fifth national park in 1899 (following Yellowstone in 1872 and Yosemite, Sequoia, and General Grant National Parks in 1890). The founding of Mount Rainier National Park was led by local groups, including mountaineering clubs, newspaper editors, businessmen's associations, and University of Washington faculty, and by scientists throughout the country, primarily geologists.

It was designated a National Historic Landmark District in 1997 as a showcase for the "NPS Rustic" style architecture of the 1920s and 1930s.

Landscape
Mount Rainier, at 14,410 feet, is the most prominent peak in the Cascade Range. The mountain stands nearly three miles higher than the lowlands to the west and one and one-half miles higher than the adjacent mountains. The volcano, which last erupted approximately 150 years ago, is encased in over 35 square miles of snow and ice. The park's total area is 235,625 acres, of which 97% is designated Wilderness. In addition to the mountain, the park contains outstanding examples of old growth forests and subalpine meadows. The park contains 26 named glaciers across 9 major watersheds, with 382 lakes and 470 rivers and streams and over 3,000 acres of other wetland types.

Flora and fauna
The park is part of a complex ecosystem. Vegetation is diverse, reflecting the varied climatic and environmental conditions encountered across the park’s 12,800-feet elevation gradient. Approximately 58 percent of the park is forested, 23 percent is subalpine parkland, and the remainder is alpine, half of which is vegetated and the other half consists of permanent snow and ice. Forest ages range from less than 100 years old on burned areas and moraines left by receding glaciers to old-growth stands 1,000 or more years. Some alpine heather communities have persisted in the park for up to 10,000 years.

Species known or thought to occur in the park include more than 800 vascular plants, 159 birds, 63 mammals, 16 amphibians, 5 reptiles, and 18 native fishes. Commonly seen animals include Columbian black-tailed deer, Douglas squirrels, noisy Stellar’s jays and common ravens. Other animals that are less-commonly seen but still popular include mammals like elk and black bear, which range in many habitats throughout the summer. Mountain goats typically remain in alpine or subalpine life zones.

Climate
Weather patterns at Mount Rainier are strongly influenced by the Pacific Ocean, elevation, and latitude. The climate is generally cool and rainy, with summer highs in the 60s and 70s (°F). While July and August are the sunniest months of the year, rain is possible any day, and very likely in spring, fall, and winter.

As one of the snowiest places on Earth, Paradise is worthy of a winter visit. From November to late May, expect to find 10 to 20 feet of snow on the ground. Approximately $$ of snow falls in an average winter at Paradise--in the winter of 1971-72, Paradise established a world's record with 1122 inches of snow!

Visitor information

 * Park website

Get in

Access to Mount Rainier is generally by car or bus. Tourists from afar usually land at Seattle-Tacoma Int'l Airport (SEA). The park is open year-round, but access is limited in winter. Facilities at Longmire are open daily year-round. Facilities at Paradise and Ohanapecosh are open daily from late-May to mid-October. Facilities at Sunrise are open July to early-October. In winter, access is by the Nisqually Entrance in the southwest corner of the park only. The Jackson Visitor Center at Paradise is open weekends and holidays in winter.

By car
Parking at Sunrise and Paradise can be problematic during summer weekends, and in all areas of the park around summer holidays, so if possible try to visit mid-week.

from Seattle
To get to Sunrise by car, take I-5 south to I-405, and north on I-405 to WA-167 south, or I-90 east to I-405, and south on I-405 to WA-167 south. Exit onto WA-410 and follow 53 miles (5 miles past park entrance) to White River Road. Take White River road to the right, 15 miles through fee station to Sunrise Visitor Center. It takes about 2 1/4 hours to get to Sunrise from Seattle.

To get to Paradise by car, take I-5 south to Tacoma and follow Tacoma directions. It takes about 2½ hours to get to Paradise from Seattle.

from Tacoma
To get to Paradise by car, take WA-7 south. At Elbe, keep straight onto WA-706, which leads into the Nisqually entrance. It takes about 2 hours to get to Paradise from Tacoma. Most visitors come on sunny summer weekends and holidays.

To get to Sunrise by car, take I-5 north, exiting to WA-167 north. Enter WA-167 freeway after crossing the Puyallup River, and exit to WA-410 after 2 miles. Follow WA-410 53 miles through park entrance and take a right onto White River Road. Follow White River Road through fee station 15 miles to Sunrise Visitor Center. Driving to Sunrise also takes approximately 2 hours from Tacoma.

from Yakima
To get to Sunrise from Yakima, take US-12 west. 5 miles past Naches, continue straight on WA-410, which leads over Chinook Pass. 7 miles after entering the park over Chinook Pass, take a left on White River road, 15 miles through the fee station to Sunrise Visitor Center.

To get to Paradise from Yakima, take US-12 west over White Pass. 12 past White Pass, take WA-123 right for 5 miles, into the park. Take a left onto Stevens Canyon Road, and follow through fee station 21 miles to Paradise.

from Portland
To get to Sunrise from Portland, take I-5 north 76 miles and exit to US 12 east. Follow US 12 for 72 miles and take a left onto WA-123 for 16 miles to the top of Cayuse Pass. At Cayuse Pass, take a left onto WA-410, and follow 3 miles, then take a left onto White River Road, following 15 miles through fee station to Sunrise Visitor Center. Portland to Sunrise will take about 3 1/2 hours by car.

To get to Paradise from Portland, take I-5 north 76 miles and exit to US 12 east. Follow US 12 40 miles and take a left onto WA-7, another 17 miles to Elbe. At Elbe, take a right on WA-706 through the Nisqually entrance and fee station, 31 miles to Paradise. It takes about 3 hours to get to Paradise from Portland.

within the park
To get from Sunrise to Paradise, take the White River Road 15 miles to the intersection with WA-410. Take a right onto WA-410, 3 miles later a right onto WA-123, and after 11 more miles right onto Stevens Canyon Road, through the fee station 21 miles to Paradise. If Stevens Canyon Road is closed, you can continue on WA-123 to US-12, taking a right 7 miles to Packwood. At the north end of town, take a right on Forest Service Road 52/Skate Creek Road for 23 miles to WA-706. Take a right onto WA-706, 4 miles to the Nisqually entrance, and another 17 miles to Paradise.

By bus
Another option to minimize parking hassle is by parking at Ashford, just outside the Nisqually entrance, and take the shuttle into the park and Paradise.

By foot
The Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) is one of the original United States National Scenic Trails and it travels a total distance of 2,650 miles along the West coast of the United States, from Mexico to Canada. It passes through California, Oregon, and Washington State.

Fees and permits
Entrances fees are valid for seven days, allowing unlimited re-entry for the week. Fees as of 2020 are:
 * $15 - "Per Person" Fee for individuals on foot/bike
 * $25 - Motorcycle Fee
 * $30 - Single Vehicle Fee
 * $55 - Mount Rainier Annual Pass

An entrance fee is not required to access any of State Routes 410 or 123 on the east side of the park, including the Ohanapecosh campground and visitor center.

By foot
Most of the park can only be seen from the areas extensive 240 miles of maintained trails which are some of the most popular and rewarding trails in the Pacific Northwest including the Wonderland Trail which is a multi-day trek that encircles the mountain and provides views so amazing that the trail is frequently voted among the best trails in the world by backpacking magazines.

By car
Most visitors choose to visit the area by car utilizing the parks 147 miles of roads that travel to each of the park's five main areas:

 * Longmire (southwest corner).
 * Paradise (south side).
 * Ohanapecosh (southeast corner).
 * Sunrise/White River (east side).
 * Carbon River/Mowich Lake (northwest corner).

Parking can be difficult or impossible to find on sunny summer weekends at Paradise, Sunrise, Grove of the Patriarchs, and at trailheads between Longmire and Paradise. Try to visit these areas on weekdays, arrive early in the day, and carpool to the park. Parking is not permitted along road edges. Park roads are winding and road shoulders are narrow. The maximum speed limit is 35 mph in most areas. Allow plenty of travel time during your visit.

See

Mountaineering
The 14,410-foot-tall Mount Rainier is an active volcano that is also the most heavily glaciated peak in the contiguous United States. It is climbed each year by thousands of people who traverse a vertical elevation gain of more than 9,000 feet over a distance of eight or more miles. Climbers must be in good physical condition and well prepared. Weather, snow, and route conditions can change rapidly and can make the difference between a pleasant and rewarding experience or tragedy.

Before climbing, obtain a current weather forecast. Turn back if weather conditions deteriorate. Severe winter-like storms on the mountain are not uncommon during the summer. The route is over glaciers and requires knowledge of crevasses safety. Do not attempt this climb if you are unfamiliar with glacier climbing.

Permits are required for all climbers going above 10,000 feet or onto any glacier. Permits can be obtained from the Paradise Ranger Station, White River Wilderness Information Center, and the Carbon River Ranger Station. The climbing fee is $30 per person per calendar year. Climbing fees are used to help recover costs for protecting the mountain's delicate and unique alpine environment, staffing the mountain's high camps and ranger stations with climbing rangers, managing upper mountain human waste and providing rangers who can rapidly respond to incidents on the mountain.

An in-park Wilderness Reservation System is available for climbers and backpackers planning trips during the May 1 to September 30 period. A reservations office is staffed at the Longmire Wilderness Information Center during the summer months. Beginning April 1st, reservations can be made by printing and completing a Reservation Request Form and faxing it to +1 360 569-3131 or mailing it to:
 * Mount Rainier National Park
 * Wilderness Information Center
 * 55210 238th Avenue East
 * Ashford, WA 98304

The reservation phone number is +1 360 569-HIKE. There is a $20 reservation fee for advance reservations. This fee is in addition to the climbing permit fee and does not guarantee a spot in the public shelter at Camp Muir. Reservations can only be made for trips between May 1st and September 30th.

Numerous guide services are available to help visitors reach the summit:

Buy
There are no gas stations within the park. Gift shops can be found at Sunrise, Paradise Inn, Jackson Visitor Center and Longmire.

Drink
Drink and nightlife options are limited within the park. Water is available at all visitor centers, and beverages may be available for purchase from some of the gift shops.

Lodging
There are two inns in the park. Reservations are recommended. There are also many inns, cabins and vacation rentals near the southwest main park entrance along State Route 706 in the town of Ashford.

Camping
There are five developed campgrounds located within the park. Reservations are strongly recommended during the summer. Although older signs and maps may still list a sixth campground, Sunshine Point, it was destroyed in 2006 by flooding.

Backcountry
60% of backcountry permits can be reserved, while 40% are available only in person on a first-come, first-served basis. Permits can be picked up at the Wilderness Information Centers at Longmire and White River, or at any ranger station during the summer. Winter permits are available at the Longmire Museum. There is no fee for a wilderness permit, but a reservation fee of $20 per party is charged. Permits may be obtained for groups of one to twelve people for up to fourteen days.

There is one established public shelter on Mt. Rainier, located at Camp Muir, 10,080' up the south side of the mountain. It is very crowded in summer and commonly used as a high camp by climbers on the mountain's most popular route. Camp Muir also has a ranger hut, a hut for commercially guided parties, and two outhouses. Reservations for overnight stays are taken by the park administration. Permits are required for overnight camps established above 10,000' elsewhere in the park.

Backcountry camping areas within the park include:

 * Trailside camps. Primitive campgrounds with one to eight sites.
 * Cross-country camps. True wilderness in which leave-no-trace camping should be practiced.
 * Alpine camps. Zones reserved for mountaineers, also "leave no trace" camping areas.

Permits may be reserved beginning March 15 by mail or fax. To make a reservation, download and fill out the Camping and Climbing Reservation Form. Requests received before March 15th will be discarded, but all requests received between March 15th and April 1st will be processed in random order.

Stay safe
Weather in the park can change quickly, so visitors should always bring raingear, a jacket, sunscreen and plenty of water when enjoying the park. The park is an active geologic area, and while the chances of a surprise eruption are low, rockfalls, floods and mudslides are unpredictable and visitors should take care when hiking in valleys and along streams. If a rumbling sound is heard while hiking, or if the water level begins to rise, find higher ground immediately.

Wildlife is generally not dangerous, but common sense should always be used. Give animals their space - keep at least one hundred yards from bears, but also remember that elk and other animals can be just as dangerous. A general rule of thumb is that if an animal is reacting to your presence, you are too close. Never feed any wildlife - it is bad for the animal, and will make that animal more aggressive towards humans. Do not leave scented items in your car as they may attract bears; food, deodorants, toothpaste, and other items should all be stored in bear-proof containers.

When hiking on the mountain, know your limits and do not venture onto glaciers. Seemingly solid ground often hides deep crevasses in the glaciers, making hiking dangerous. Travel on Rainier's glaciers should be attempted only by those familiar with glacier travel or those accompanied by an experienced guide.

Go next

 * Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument. Located south of the park, this mountain is best known for its 1980 eruption.
 * Seattle. Located in the shadow of Mount Rainier, the home of Starbucks features an eclectic mix of people and a vibrant citylife for visitors.

title: Mount Rainier National Park


text:
Mountrath

Mountrath is a town in County Laois, with a population in 2022 of about 2100. In the 18th and 19th century it was industrial, with weaving and metal-working from local iron ores. It was also on the main Dublin to Limerick road, a traffic bottleneck until bypassed by M7 in 2010. Its name derives from Maighean Rátha, "the homestead of the ringfort", of which no trace remains.

Get in
Local Link Bus 834 runs 3 or 4 times a day from Portlaoise to (30 min) and continues to Castletown, Borris-in-Ossory and Roscrea.

Local Link Bus 839 runs once M-F in the morning from Borris to Castletown, Mountrath, Portlaoise and Mountmellick, returning late afternoon.

Slieve Bloom Bus 831 runs once M-F early morning from Portlaoise to Mountrath then orbits through Castletown, Borris, Rathdowney, Ballycolla, Durrow, Balnakill, Abbeyleix and back to Portlaoise. The complete return run is late afternoon; two other runs terminate at Borris and don't reach Castletown or Mountrath.

Portlaoise is the nearest transport hub, with trains from Dublin Heuston to Cork, Athlone and Galway, and direct buses from Dublin Airport and city centre.

By road from Dublin follow N7 / M7 to Portlaoise, where you need to take Exit 16 onto R445, otherwise you'll discover why folk say it's a long way to Tipperary. Until 2010 the main Dublin to Limerick road N7 was via Portlaoise, Mountrath and Borris, and horribly congested. Once M7 was extended this was down-classed to R445, becoming the longest regional road in Ireland, almost coast-to-coast. Odd that it hasn't been touted as a "heritage highway", an Irish Route 66 of Harley-Davidsons and TV travelogues.

Get around
You need wheels to reach the mountain trailheads, which are the main reason to be here.

See

 * along R445 was once an important abbey founded by St Fintan (526-603). It may have hosted the Synod of Ráth Breasail of 1111 AD, which aligned the early Irish church more closely with Rome, and organised it by parishes instead of monasteries. The main remnant is the series of cross slabs in the old graveyard. There was a holy well, but when it was filled in and closed to curb superstition, folk marvelled that the copious rainfall still collected in the fork of a nearby sycamore, and transferred their venerations and imprecations to that. For the next 200 years pilgrims hammered coins into the "money-tree", to show how wonderfully resistant it was, but it wasn't. However the age of miracles is not gone: in the 21st century the tree re-grew. And much of west Europe adopted the same money as Ireland, calling it the "Eire-oh".
 * in Camross is named for Patrick Ryan, an 18th / 19th century poet, but it's a modern replica.
 * at 482 m / 1581 ft and at 514 m / 1686 ft are nearby peaks of the Slieve Bloom Mountains on R440 towards Kinnitty.
 * recalls in its name the ancient kingdom of Osraighe. This formed a narrow strip between Leinster and Munster, with its heyday as a Viking domain in the 9th century. Not much has happened since: St Mark's church with its stubby "Round Tower" is a piece of Victorian whimsy. Don't confuse this place with Borris in County Carlow.
 * : see Roscrea for this medieval turret.
 * : see Roscrea for this medieval turret.

Do

 * Slieve Bloom Mountains rise to the west to around 500 m. There's a 75 km three day hiking circuit, but most visitors day-trip.

Buy

 * Centra on Main St is open M-Sa 7AM-10PM, Su 8AM-9PM. There's also a nearby Spar.
 * Colgan Sports on Portlaoise Rd has outdoor wear.
 * Emo filling station on Portlaoise Rd has self-service pumps 24 hours.

Eat

 * Others in Mountrath are Gabriel's, Phelan's, and three pizza and kebab takeaways.
 * Others in Mountrath are Gabriel's, Phelan's, and three pizza and kebab takeaways.

Drink

 * Mountrath has Eddie Kirwan's, Fountain House and Tom's Bar.
 * Castletown has Castletown Inn.
 * Mountrath in 1800 had two distilleries, John Carr's and White Horse, but both disappeared early in the 19th century. Nowadays there's a liqueur distillery in Abbeyleix and a microbrewery across the hills in Kinnitty.

Sleep

 * Mountrath is short of accommodation, there's much more in Portlaoise. For hiking in the mountains, another option is Kinnitty to the west.

Connect
As of June 2021, you might manage a call with Three, but most of this area has no mobile coverage.

Go next

 * Abbeyleix doesn't have an abbey, but a notable bog and Heywood Gardens.
 * Portlaoise is a transport hub with lots of accommodation and eating places. Its sights (such as Rock of Dunamase) are some distance out.
 * Kinnitty is a good base for the west slopes of the Slieve Bloom Mountains.

title: Mountrath