Wilderness in North America

Believe it or not, Salt Lake City is actually situated on one of the biggest salt lakes in North America. Traditionally attracting tourists due to the large Mormon population, the salt lake contains a number of state parks with Antelope Island being one of them. Only recently a causeway was built that allows easy access from the outskirts of the city to the giant, hilly island in the middle of the salt lake. Surprisingly, antelopes are not the most populous animal on the island but Buffalo, with a heard of 800 residing on the island. There are also large bird colonies and smaller animals including mice and rodents that will get into your car at night if you choose to stay, which is possible. Make sure you close all opened food, as mice are not the best company while trying to sleep.

If ever visiting San Francisco, one of the best ways to see the city is to take a drive north across the Golden Gate Bridge to the Marin Headlands. The windy, scenic road brings you to breathtaking views of San Francisco. The road will also bring you to Rodeo Beach, which is a great place to spend an afternoon. The Headlands is filled with abandoned military installments that were manned during World War 2. Keep a lookout for rabbits, foxes, coyotes, and an abundance of deer! The Marin Headlands is the best place to watch the raptor migration in the months of September and October.

One of the most spectacular wildernesses in North America, Yosemite is something that cannot be described sufficiently in words. The Yosemite Valley is amazing, filled with dramatic cliffs, black bears, stunning water, and unfortunately lots of people. Over 3 million people go to Yosemite every year so it is difficult to find it not crowded. If you want a more "wild experience", get a wilderness permit and head to camp in the backcountry. Little Yosemite Valley is just as impressive, without the people. Climbing Half Dome is well worth the climb, even if the last ascent up the cables is not for people afraid of heights. The view from the top makes everything worth it. Going up for sunrise or sunset will be less crowded, because the cables can get very busy midday.