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Of the many intriguing natural habitats rife for exploration in the United States, a few are unique for their quiet significance in showcasing the diversity that comprises America.

Chincoteague and Assateague Barrier Islands

What makes Chincoteague and Assateague islands stand out among the 282 barrier islands along the United States coastline is the wild ponies. The ponies that graze the grasslands today are said to be descendents of ponies that escaped a sinking Galleon ship in the 1600s. Beyond the fascination of wild ponies, the salt marshes and seagrass beds of these barrier islands support unique ecosystems. From peregrine falcons and great horned owls to Delmarva squirrels, red foxes, bottlenose dolphins and horseshoe crabs, the islands support diverse wildlife and waterfowl habitats. Dovewinds, just across the causeway from the Assateague Island National Seashore, rents efficiencies and cottages for visitors eager to walk the nature trails, ride bikes, or enjoy the white sand beaches of this magical environment. Those who cherished Misty of Chincoteague as children will revel in experiencing the story elements firsthand. True afficianados may choose to sacrifice some of the quiet solitude of an off-season visit for the excitement of the mid-July pony swim when the local Fire Department herds ponies across the channel to the Fair Grounds for auction.

Glacial Boulder Field at Hickory Run State Park

The story of Hickory Run State Park in White Haven, Pennsylvania dates back to the last Ice Age. The mile thick glacier that once covered a substantial part of North America left a field of boulders in its wake when it receded. With boulders as long as 26 feet in an area 400 x 1800 feet, the boulder field is so unique as to have been declared a National Landmark. Besides the fascinating geology, the park is home to black bears. Wood frogs, spotted and Jefferson salamanders breed in the bogs, while birds are abundant, including eastern bluebirds and six species of thrush. Activities include hiking 43 miles of trails of varying difficulty levels, spiritual awakening at Hawk Falls, or fishing in the glistening trout stream. Campgrounds are available in the park. Those seeking more substantial accommodation can find listings for rental properties nestled in the wooded localities surrounding the park at vacationrentals.com and rents4vacation.com.

California Redwoods at Butano State Park

Butano State Park off Highway 1 in San Mateo, California awes visitors with closeup encounters with 1,000 year old redwoods in parkland not overrun by crowds. Overnight lodging in lighthouse keepers quarters at nearby Pigeon Point Lighthouse Hostel offers whirlpool use on a deck overlooking the Pacific Ocean from which seals and whales may be sighted.

Oceans, ancient redwoods, glacial moraine, wild ponies and whales ... These nature vacations highlight the diverse landscapes and wildlife that define America.

Learn more about this author, Carol Bengle Gilbert.
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