Photo Albums

The goal of the photo albums of the previous part of the hiking database was to document as much interesting and unique information about the hikes or backpacks as possible.  These albums have a goal of showing beautiful unique places.  Photo quality and consistency is of primary concern here.  Photo albums have an option of slide shows.  To activate it, click on any image and the slide show arrow on the top left corner.  Right next to it is the pause slide show button.  Each image can be further expanded by clicking on it.  The time interval between images for the slide show is set to 3 seconds.

Azalea Gardens Near the Triadelphia Reservoir, 05/09/2009

The garden is located in Howard Co., MD almost on the border with Montgomery Co.  It consists of many types of azaleas planted  over the years by the late Brighton Dam (on Triadelphia Reservoir) superintendent.  Call the Brighton Dam Visitor's Center to confirm that the azaleas are in bloom before the visit.  Free access.  http://www.wsscwater.com/info/releases/042909.cfm

Lilypons Water Gardens:

Water Lilies, 09/18/2005

Various Flowers, 05/21/2006

Water Lilies, 07/10/2009

Lotuses, 07/10/2009

Aquatic Gardens, located in Adamstown, MD, is named after the early 20th century opera singer Lilypons.  It is a commercial garden, selling aquatic plants, primarily various types of lotuses and water lilies, but many other as well.  They also sell decorative fish, fountains, and pool illumination.  The land is next to the Monocacy River and not far from the Sugarloaf Mountain.  Also known for different kinds of birds.  Free access.  http://www.lilypons.com/contactus.asp

Ladew Topiary Gardens, 05/10/2009:

Estate

Topiary Gardens

Flowers and Trees

Ladew Topiary Gardens are north of Baltimore, MD.  They consist of the museum with it's famous library room (one of the 100 best rooms in America), the topiary gardens, flower gardens, huge field for picnicking, grass field, nature trail, etc.  Flower and tree gardens are spectacular.  Topiary part could be better.  Curators are knowledgeable and friendly.  Souvenir shop is good.    Great place for a family visit.  Entrance fee.  http://www.ladewgardens.com/

Brice Canyon National Park, Utah, 05/21/2005

Bryce Canyon National Park is the most beautiful place I've seen.  Warm red and cold white colors of the sandstone formations create a very special effect.  Add to this natural arches, the so-called hoodoos, the Amphitheater shape of the Park.  I would like to mention very well designed set of trails going inside the Amphitheater, nice campground, great lodge.  http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bryce_Canyon_National_Park, http://www.nps.gov/brca/index.htm