Before I visited Zion National Park in winter, I pictured the famed slot canyons and rock formations of the park buried in snow, with park amenities shuttered for the season and the adjacent town of Springdale hard to access on wintery roads. I could not have been more wrong. Thanks to it's low elevation and Southern Utah location near St. George, Zion National Park in winter is completely … [Read more...]
Bryce Canyon National Park in winter
February 24, 2021 By
If you’ve been to Bryce Canyon in summer, you know this national park is incredibly scenic, and also incredibly crowded. Even the ‘shoulder’ seasons of late spring and early fall are becoming congested with tourists. But come in the heart of winter, and you’ll have this playground of natural wonders to yourself. Things to do in Bryce Canyon National Park in winter: Much of Bryce Canyon stays … [Read more...]
Guide to visiting Iceland in the winter with kids
February 16, 2021 By
Unless you've been living under a rock, you've been hearing the word 'Iceland' related to 'family travel' for a few years now. Families can have a great adventure in Iceland during the warm months (in fact, stay tuned for a guide to camping in Iceland with kids), but many people are still reluctant to try visiting Iceland in the winter with kids. It's a great time to visit, and if you read on, I'm … [Read more...]
Seven destinations for family biking vacations
February 15, 2021 By
Introducing your children to an active lifestyle has become more challenging with skyrocketing technological innovations. During family biking vacations, kids can quickly develop poor fitness and eating habits that lead to chronic diseases later in life without consistent physical activity. Limiting your child’s screen time to roughly two hours per day and encouraging spending time outdoors can … [Read more...]
Belize adventure vacation: What to do with a week in San Ignacio Belize
January 4, 2021 By
If the first thing to comes to mind when you think of Belize is beaches and cays, it’s time to rethink this small country that’s big on outdoor adventure. For those who venture into the interior, especially the west side of Belize in the Cayo District, rivers, caves, Mayan ruins and culture abounds. Here’s how to spend a week or more in the Cayo District, based in the town of San … [Read more...]
Backcountry skiing basics: How to get into the sport
December 2, 2020 By
It's never been a better time to get into the backcountry and leave the crowds behind! Here's how to get into the sport during the COVID season! An avid downhill skier and snowshoer, I've been noting the small but growing trend toward backcountry skiing for some time now. This sport, which combines a love of nordic exploration and downhill excitement, attracts men and women (and yes, some kids) … [Read more...]
Best family vacations during a time of social distancing
November 12, 2020 By
If you’re an adventurous family, you're probably itching to travel again. Travel is coming back, but it will look different than in the past. We took an amazing rafting trip--and felt completely safe--in the midst of CV-19, for instance. Then, we 'glamped' in a rural location. The key: focus on outdoor-centric vacations that naturally promote social distancing. Note: Be careful if you’re … [Read more...]
Glamping on the Oregon coast at Bay Point Landing
October 29, 2020 By
Located in Coos Bay, Oregon, Bay Point Landing offers safe and affordable glamping on the Oregon coast. You can see their safety and sanitation measures here. What elevates this luxury RV resort to 'glamping' status: its Airstream and cabin rentals, amenities, and location. Located ight on the bay on the Southern Oregon 'adventure' coast, Bay Point Landing features a short section of … [Read more...]
Exploring the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone: navigating Upper and Lower Falls
October 9, 2020 By
During a time when many vacations are not possible, outdoor activities in road trip-accessible locations offer the ability to safely social distance. Hotels.com asked me to share my favorite activities and tips for exploring Yellowstone, so start here as you plan a safe and responsible vacation. Located a full 50 miles away from the central hub (and congestion) of Yellowstone National Park's Old … [Read more...]
Family camping at new heights: Gear for elevated camping
September 21, 2020 By
Have you ever wanted to camp off the ground? Elevated camping is becoming more and more popular, because camping in tents and hammocks designed to be strung in trees allows families to camp on un-even terrain, away from pesky insects, and out of the elements. It's also just super fun and cool. If you want to try elevated camping, here's what you'll need! Kammok Wallaby paired with the … [Read more...]
