by Isabella Purdy, Staff Writer
This Thanksgiving Break, there are some unique places that aren’t too far away from Fountain Valley that you can go to experience something different outside of your comfort zone.
Zion National Park
Zion National Park, located in Utah, is a six hour drive and offers many opportunities to go on hikes, see hanging gardens, hidden grottoes, along with the unique opportunity to hike through the middle of a canyon deep within the heart of Zion.
One of the most famous hikes is the Narrows, where you will hike straight through Zion Canyon. The stunning views of the canyon and the Virgin River make it an ideal spot to take photos and observe the beautiful scenery.
The Narrows is one of the most popular hikes in Zion. However, you should take precaution and check in with Zion Outfitters, located outside the park, who will give you current weather conditions and the option to rent highly-recommended equipment because there are high percentages of flash flood during certain times of the year.
Another unique hike in Zion is the Emerald Pools hike. The Emerald Pools hike offers many hanging gardens, waterfalls and sparkling green pools on the easy trail.
Catalina Island
Catalina Island offers many interesting activities to view the waterfront, including a submarine ride that gives you a view of what types of marine life live off of the island.
You can rent a golf cart to tour the island, zip line across the treetops and snorkel in the kelp forests of Catalina. The tours around Catalina show the magnificent flora and fauna, and the island also has a variety of shops that features ocean themed jewelry, decor, gifts and food that you can purchase as a keepsake from your vacation.
Fashion Island
Fashion Island is a great place to go shopping over Thanksgiving Break, especially once the Christmas decorations are set up.
Fashion Island has a large Christmas tree in the center of the mall that is perfect for photos of family and friends. Many of the shops have different unique Christmas decorations you can purchase in preparation for the holiday season.
A Koi Pond in Fashion Island offers a place to relax and enjoy nature in the heart of the outdoor mall, and next to it is the food court, where you can enjoy gelato and other delicious sweet treats.
