3107, 2012

Hurricane Ridge, Olympic National Park

Scenic Earth
574

The most accessible mountain area in Olympic National Park, Hurricane Ridge offers spectacular views of the park and numerous hiking opportunities. Miles of forested land, rugged mountains, wildlife, and wildflower meadows greet park visitors year-round. Named “Hurricane Ridge” for its frequent strong wind gusts (over 75 miles an hour), this location receives up to 35 feet of snow each year. The weight of this snow discourages tree growth along much of the ridge, creating open meadows and bare slopes like those seen in this sample video. During the winter, the road to Hurricane Ridge mostly remains open, though often threatened by the risk of avalanches. Ski and snowshoe rental is offered at the ridge’s visitor center.

0303, 2012

Marina Bay, Singapore

World Cities & Harbors
481

The densely-populated city-state of Singapore rests on a small archipelago in the midst of Malaysia and Indonesia. A sovereign nation of one large metropolitan area, Singapore is one of the busiest ports in the world and one of the world’s wealthiest countries, with more millionaires (in terms of US dollars) per capita than any other country. Despite being ruled by the same political party since its 1959, Singapore is also known for it’s lack of political corruption and for being one of the busiest port cites in the entire world. The country has greatly benefited from the many exports of its thriving industrial economy, as well as its strong financial sector. Singapore also caters to the

0810, 2011

Michipicoten at Soo Locks

Shipwatching
487

The Great Lakes freighter Michipicoten, formerly known as the Elton Hoyt 2nd, was built in 1952 and renamed once it joined the Lower Lakes Towing Company, which names its vessels after local rivers. In November 2010, it was converted to diesel power, increasing its capacity and lifespan while reducing its environmental footprint. The Michipicoten primarily runs between Marquette, Michigan and Algoma Steel, but also carries other material and has also been certified to carry grain. In this eScapes video, the freighter slowly moves through the Soo Locks, as it does on its usual route. Chuck Loeb is a guitarist, composer, and producer. Known for his smooth jazz recordings, he is a versatile artist who has explored

0110, 2011

Juneau, Alaska (Gastineau Channel)

Scenic Earth
466

Juneau, Alaska, might lack the density and skyscrapers of most state capitals, but it’s big in another way: the consolidated city-borough of Juneau covers more than 2700 square miles of land area. Much of this area is desolate: Juneau is the state capital with the smallest population per land area, making a perfect destination for those looking for peace and solitary relaxation. Juneau’s location on the Gastineau Channel and its lack of nearby roads make boating a popular way to get around. Plenty of marinas and ferries service residents and visitors, and the channel is a popular cruise ship destination, as demonstrated by the Royal Caribbean ships seen docked in this video. Chuck Loeb is a

1709, 2011

Dana Point, California

Tropical Beaches
437

Dana Point is a California city known for its miles of beaches. A relatively new city, it was first settled in the early 1900s and not incorporated as its own city within Orange County until 1989. Dana Point is named after Richard Henry Dana, Jr., a seaman who took note of the area while sailing on the merchant ship Pilgrim in 1840. Today, a replica of Pilgrim can be seen at the Ocean Institute at the west end of the harbor. Sixty miles south of Los Angeles, Dana Point is a perfect place to relax by the seaside, but it is also known as a great surfing destination away from the crowds found at more famous

0409, 2011

Point Aux Barques Lighthouse

Lighthouses
438

Built in 1847 to warn ships of a dangerous reef, Point Aux Barques Lighthouse in Port Hope, Michigan originally stood for only nine years before being razed and rebuilt. The original construction had used inferior materials that could not withstand the stress of severe weather. The new tower and keeper’s dwelling that stands today was finished in 1857. Its third-order fresnel lens, with an electric light since 1932, still serves Lake Huron ships. Fully automated since the 1950s, the lighthouse is now part of a park and museum. Chuck Loeb is a guitarist, composer, and producer. Known for his smooth jazz recordings, he is a versatile artist who has explored various other musical styles including classical