There are as many Riviera Maya eco-tours as there are amazing natural wonders along this part of the Caribbean, and each offer something a little bit different. We've reviewed the fast-action activities with Alltournative, but for a change of pace, a day with Punta Venado offers both ATV adventures and snorkeling, plus relaxation. Don't worry: the kids will still be highly entertained with … [Read more...]
A day with Alltournative tours: Tulum and Jungle Maya adventure with tweens and teens
January 13, 2014 By
Mexico's Riviera Maya is rich with geological and cultural excursions for active families. It's system of cenotes (underground rivers) and abundance of Mayan ruins are accessed by many tour operators, but which one to pick? We spent the day with Alltournative Tours, a leading eco-archaeological guide service specializing in active, adventurous tours. Like most local tour companies, … [Read more...]
Swim with whale sharks in Cancun Mexico
January 8, 2014 By
One of the most memorable excursions in Cancun for my family was to swim with whale sharks. These harmless giants can be found in the open water approximately 20 miles off the coast of Cancun (past Isla Mujeres) from May to September, and if you're visiting the Riviera Maya area during this time period with older kids and teens, it's definitely an activity to consider. Who to book with: We … [Read more...]
Bouldering with kids: Mill Creek and Avenue of the Boulders OR
November 25, 2013 By
When I say 'bouldering' I don't exactly mean the sport catching on among the outdoorsy type from Colorado to New Mexico. I mean 'clambering' or maybe 'scrambling', as we really weren't climbing high enough to need mats or helmets. However, I have learned that if you tell kids they're going bouldering, they hike much faster! Any way I can add some excitement to a nature walk or hike, I do so! Tip: … [Read more...]
Outdoor exploration with kids: Eastern Mountain Sports Schools
October 23, 2013 By
EMS is one of my favorite outdoor gear stores, and I look to them whenever we need something new for backpacking, hiking, or climbing. But did you know that they have special “schools” for climbing (rock and ice), skiing (avalanche training, back country, telemark), kayaking, and biking? These EMS schools are located throughout New England and New York and are available to everyone from experts … [Read more...]
Cave spelunking at Craters of the Moon National Monument
July 22, 2013 By
For families driving through Southern Idaho en route on I-84 or toward Yellowstone National Park, a stop at Craters of the Moon National Monument is well worth the time. This park of lava tubes and geological displays is visually stunning with its rocky volcanic landscape and cinder cone, but the true wonders are below ground. The highlight for our family was certainly the cave exploration within … [Read more...]
Five day guided rafting trips Rogue River review with O.A.R.S.
July 17, 2013 By
If deciding whether multi-day guided rafting trips are right for you, you've no doubt read all the information available on numerous river rafting websites, scanned itineraries, and compared reviews. But which to pick? Nothing beats a day by day report from 'the field': we spent five days in July on the Wild and Scenic Rogue River with O.A.R.S. 5 day Rogue River trip. Read on for our full … [Read more...]
Uncrowded Yosemite: backpacking Yosemite National Park with kids
April 11, 2013 By
Would you believe that in July, in the center of Yosemite National Park, we enjoyed an entire day where we never saw another soul? It's possible, provided you depart from the usual tourist destinations in the valley and explore Yosemite backcountry. Backpacking Yosemite National Park with kids: We chose to hike a portion of The John Muir Trail, a 211 mile path between Happy Isles in Yosemite … [Read more...]
Big White Dog Sled Tours
January 25, 2013 By
I thoroughly enjoyed every outdoor activity I tried during our family vacation at Big White Ski Resort, but I think flying down a nordic trail pulled by a team of sled dogs was my favorite (don't tell). I arrived for my Big White dog sledding experience with my mom, a long-time follower of the Iditerod and dog-lover. We met with Tim, Big White's resident dog musher, and his team of dogs at their … [Read more...]
Big White Ice Tower Climb: a family activity (yes, really!)
January 23, 2013 By
Among the many unique outdoor activities offered at Big White Ski Resort in Kelowna BC is their 60 foot Ice Tower. The only such tower in North America, this structure is looms as a huge, contoured block of ice in the center of Big White's Adventure area, and yes, it's intimidating! But here's the best part: anyone can try to climb it…no experience necessary! Ice climbing is normally an … [Read more...]
