Amy Hagstrom - Pitstops for Kids

Exploring Cody Wyoming’s Buffalo Bill Center of the West

July 31, 2013 By Amy Hagstrom

Plan at least the majority of a day to take in Cody, Wyoming‘s Buffalo Bill Center of the West. Dubbed the ‘Smithsonian of the West’, this sprawling center in the heart of Cody is really five museums in one, plus outdoor exhibits and interactive displays.

Start in the Buffalo Bill Museum, which offers a complete overview of the life of William ‘Buffalo Bill’ Cody, from boyhood to late life. There’s much more to this American icon than just his famous Wild West show: we learned about his earlier days as a scout for the U.S. army, plus his home life and inspiration for his show. Throughout the Buffalo Bill Museum (and elsewhere in the complex), interactive exhibits encourage kids to put themselves into history, try their hand at skills needed for scouting and wilderness survival, and try out saddles, lassos, and the like. There’s even a Buffalo Bill board game circa the 1950’s ready to be played. Allow at least an hour for this museum, if not more.

Next, head to the Plains Indian Museum, where life on the American plains before and after Euro-American migration (aka Manifest Destiny) changed the shape of Native American culture is displayed in dramatic, panoramas and displays. The museum’s high ceilings and excellent lighting and sets paint a perfect backdrop to learning about these distinct tribes. Families will need 1-2 hours to see it all!

By this time, kids (and adults) will likely need lunch: the center’s cafeteria is reasonably priced with a salad bar and make-you-own-sandwich station. It also serves burgers and hot items. There’s plenty of seating indoors and outside in the beautiful grounds garden, and if you don’t need a whole meal, there’s a nice coffee bar, too. Throughout the day, keep an eye on the scheduled presentations displayed on the reader board at the entrance hub of the center, and plan you route through the museums by it: we were glad not to miss the birds of prey show hosted by the natural history museum!

After lunch, head to the Draper Natural History Museum for displays on animals and plant life in the Greater Yellowstone area. Again, the dioramas and exhibits here are stunning, dramatic, and very well done. Interactive opportunities for learning abound here once again as well: in particular, our kids loved the ‘field station’ where they could chart geothermal activity and wildlife migration from a bank of computers and quiz stations set up throughout the museum to test their knowledge of the outdoors. This museum is multi-story (as is the Plains Indians one) so once again, allow several hours. Younger kids may not last as long, but school-aged kids would be remiss to skip anything!

Older kids and anyone who loves guns and Western history associated with firearms will want to check out the Cody Firearms Museum. We thought this museum would be smaller than the others, but it’s nearly as large! Even if you’re not a gun fan, a tour through the replica pioneer-era hardware store is worth the visit. I found the gun displays from the 1500s-1800s most interesting, though my teen loved the WWII collection.

Finally, if you’re not spent, the Photography Gallery (hosted by National Geographic) is stunning, and the Whitney Western Art Museum is well worth a tour. At the back of the art museum is a counter banked by windows overlooking the landscape where kids are encouraged to draw their own Western art.

Outside, families should check out Buffalo Bill’s boyhood home, brought to Cody from Kansas, and the Joseph Henry Sharp cabin. Outdoor shows such as the birds of prey presentation are held on the center outdoor grounds as well. At the entrance to the center is also a replica chuck wagon with cook: definitely stop to sample his fare. We ate sourdough biscuits and baked beans authentically cooked over a fire in cast-iron pots, and both were delicious.

Date last visited:

June 2013

Distance from the interstate:

Directly on Highway 20.

Hours of operation:

8 am to 6 pm daily May 1-September 15. Off-season hours are 10 am to 5 pm daily.

Admission:

Expect to pay $25 for adults and under $15 for youth. Kids five and under free. Considering the vast amount of museum space, we found this pricing to be a deal…provided you stay most of the day.

Directions:

The Center of the West is located at 720 Sheridan Ave in Cody. Sheridan Avenue is Cody’s ‘Main Street’, so you can’t miss it coming through town from either direction.

Yellowstone lodging alternative: Harriman State Park

July 24, 2013 By Amy Hagstrom

I almost hate to let readers in on this golden secret, which we learned through on-the-road experience, but if you’re looking for a peaceful, non-crowded lodging experience near the west entrance of Yellowstone National Park, you’ll want to book a yurt or ranch dorm room at Harriman State Park just over the border in Idaho.

Located 30 miles from Yellowstone, this state park is different than most for two distinct reasons: 1. it is a Greater Yellowstone Region wildlife and bird sanctuary and 2. there are no campgrounds (tent or RV). Instead, two lodging options near Yellowstone are offered at the park: two yurts and multiple historic dorm rooms in the historic Railroad Ranch.

We reserved a yurt, and loved both its location and amenities. In fact, Harriman State Park yurts are the best we’ve seen. How so? They are larger than standard state park yurts in Oregon and Washington (our other yurt experience), and include a cozy wood-burning stove, box of cut wood ready to use, propane cook stove and propane lantern. Outside, families get a fire pit and table, and indoors, another full-sized table is set in the center of the yurt. These yurts do not have electric light, so families will need to bring propane to use the lantern and stove. We didn’t know this in advance, but made due just fine with flashlights and cooking over the fire pit.

The yurts sleep six comfortably, and are set away from each other and everything else on the end of Silver Lake and its bird sanctuary. Families are within easy walking distance of the lake, hiking trails, and the historic ranch site. If you don’t spend the night, a stop is still warranted to see the historical sites, picnic (areas are located past the lake), and hike.

If you do want to RV or tent camp, or want to be on a lake where you can fish, boat, and swim, multiple options exist along Highway 20 in and around the community of Island Park, Idaho.

Date last visited:

June 2013

Distance from the interstate:

Right off Highway 20, 30 minutes from Yellowstone.

Yurt rates:

$60 (plus taxes and fees)

Dining:

Buy food before arriving. There is a small store located at the far end of the park on Highway 20, but it’s limited. If you do want to dine out, you’ll need to drive into Island Park, where there are a number of casual bars, pubs, and the like.

Directions:

Harriman is located at 3489 Green Canyon Rd in Island Park, Idaho. From I-15, connect with Highway 20 and head north toward Yellowstone. From the national park, exit at the West Entrance and connect with Highway 20.
Island Park, ID

Top three hidden gems of the Caribbean for families

July 22, 2013 By Amy Hagstrom

As a top destination for cruises and tours, the Caribbean has no shortage of enticing tropical landscapes and attractions. The region’s predictably warm, balmy weather and aquamarine sea attract visitors year-round. And yet, the Caribbean still harbors some lesser-known places which can offer a more low-key excursion. These are not the types of places you’ll find all-you-can-eat buffets or “tourist trap” restaurants and souvenir stands. These are hidden gems.

Away from the attractions most tourists flock to, these three places still exude untouched natural beauty. Visitors can dine in solitude or swim in pristine waterfalls. These three quiet escapes provide alluring tranquility amid the natural beauty of the islands.

1. Dominica: Isle of Delights

Dominica is an island whose beauty is founded on its unspoiled natural setting. The island has been subjected to much less development than many of its island neighbors. Made up mostly of rainforest, the island is known for the abundance of deep green jungles filled with exotic flora and fauna. The island boasts over 365 waterfalls, springs and rivers, all of which beckon visitors inland from its soft sandy swaths of beach.

The island’s rugged inland terrain is marked by volcanic activity, providing warmth for several hot springs and even a boiling lake unfit for swimming but frequented by intrepid hikers. The Morne Trois Pitons National Park is a World Heritage Site that features a mix of Dominica’s tropical flora and fauna and volcanic rock formations. The hit film “Pirates of the Caribbean” was filmed on and around Dominica, adding to its mystique as an island of intrigue and drama. Those hoping to catch a glimpse of Captain Jack Sparrow might be disappointed — he is, after all, a fictional character — but might be delighted by the actual sparrows in the sky, as Dominica is a hotbed for tropical bird-watching.

2. Saba: Suspended in Time

Because the island of Saba receives fewer than 25,000 visitors a year, it manages to maintain a timeless natural mystique. The nearby islands, St. Maarten and St. Bart’s, just a stone’s throw away, are both frequented by major cruise companies making them far more crowded than Saba. Visitors will first notice that Saba is lacking in resorts and fancy shops. There are no designer retailers to be found. However, Saba makes up for the lack of posh shopping by offering up its own variety of lushness in the form of gorgeous nature and eco-tourism.

Saba represents the original, raw beauty of the Caribbean, prior to commercialism and human intervention. The beauty of Saba is not limited to its lush hills or secluded beaches — it extends underwater to the surrounding sea. Saba is actually one of the world’s top destinations for scuba diving and is considered among the best spots on earth for underwater exploration. For such a tiny island, Saba boasts a dizzying diversity of beautiful aquatic life. Adventurous visitors can spend the morning underwater exploring Saba’s rocky reefs, and then in the afternoon ascend its tallest peak, Mount Scenery. Above water and below, Saba’s ecology is inspiring, timeless and well-preserved. Its beauty highlights the fragility of a region impacted by heavy tourism.

3. Los Roques: Radiant and Lovely

Officially under the jurisdiction of Venezuela, Los Roques is an archipelago that is designated as a national park. The magnificent marine ecosystem of Los Roques is protected by the national park status, and is just a short hop from the capital city of Caracas. Los Roques has become a popular destination for nature lovers seeking to explore its unique flora and fauna. The island welcomes tourists who support its small local economy and offers several friendly inns. Visitors can also opt to stay in posadas, which are former houses of island fishermen and have been renovated for use by tourists. The Los Roques experience is both more rugged — and more radiant — than many other destinations in the Caribbean.

About the Author: Louise Barnes is a travel writer and author of several books about Caribbean history. She enjoys exploring options for Caribbean excursions on Expedia where she finds deals on vacation packages.

Photo credit.

Cave spelunking at Craters of the Moon National Monument

July 22, 2013 By Amy Hagstrom

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 the park.

Start at the visitor’s center at the park entrance, and watch a short film on the park, then obtain a cave permit. (Permits are required to enter any caves in the park in an effort to protect bats from a common bat disease.) Once you have your permit (and enough flashlights or headlamps for everyone in your party), head out on Crater Loop Road, and follow signage to the cave area. You’ll see a parking area and paved path to the lava field with five caves. We toured the Dewdrop Cave (small and good to start with), the Indian Tunnel (large but still well-lit), and the Boy Scout Cave (dark, icy, and requiring much scrambling). If you have adventurous kids in your group like we have, they’ll also want to explore additional lava tubes running throughout the beds.

Note: You’ll want sturdy shoes with good grip in the caves, as well as lights (headlamps are best). Keep kids close to you, because there are many ways to go inside the caves and many small tunnels that are tempting to explore. Be aware of icy rocks.

If cave spelunking isn’t your thing, the Crater Loop Road also includes numerous view points, a short hike up a cinder cone, and day hikes. There is a campground at Craters of the Moon which is visually beautiful but low on shade or wind protection; I’d recommend it for RV campers, not tent campers. The visitor’s center has an indoor atrium where families can eat bag lunches, but no outdoor picnic areas. Don’t forget to get the kids’ National Parks Passports stamped!

Date last visited:

June 2013

Distance from the Interstate:

1.5 hours (right on US Highway 20).

Admission:

Car fee is $8. Campground fees may apply.

Operating hours:

Visitor’s Center: 8 am to 6 pm during summer months. Call for opening season dates: 208-527-1335

Directions:

Craters of the Moon is located off US Highway 20/26 between Arco and Carey, Idaho.

Where to stay at Canyons Resort: Hyatt Escala review

July 19, 2013 By Amy Hagstrom

Canyons Resort in Park City has several top-tier lodging options for families to choose from (we’ll be reviewing several this week!), but our new favorite just might be the Hyatt Escala Lodge. Why is this property where to stay at Canyons? The Escala’s proximity to the slopes is just as good if not better than neighboring Summit Lodge, and there is more room for families to spread out in this predominately suite-based property. It’s quieter than lodging options right in The Canyons‘ base area, but still only a two minute walk away.

We were here for a summer stay, but winter guests enjoy the same perks, with the added benefit of a ski valet (one of our all-time favorite things to find at any luxury resort). Families can enjoy a beautiful outdoor pool facility with two hot tubs, plus a nicely sized exercise facility and sauna. The Escala is divided into three buildings which all face into a central court and share an underground parking garage. You certainly don’t get the ‘sprawling’ resort feeling you might at other ski resorts, as you’re close to everything. Even though we were in Uinta, which is not in the building with the dining options or the building with the pool and exercise options, we were literally only steps from both.

In summer, the Escala’s front door opens directly out onto hiking trails, mountain biking facilities, and is 3 minute walk from the Red Pine Gondola of The Canyons. In winter, you’re even closer to the slopes with a smaller chair option. We easily walked into the Canyons’ base area repeatedly for dining, recreation, and shopping.

We experienced a one-bedroom suite, which provided plenty of room for our family of five. The bedroom included a queen bed, and the living area had a pull-out double bed/couch. We had room for a roll-away as well. The one-bedroom suite includes a full gourmet kitchen, which makes dining in-room easy, and a fully sized washer and dryer. Hallelujah! Our second floor view looked out on aspen trees and the base area. In room, we enjoyed high speed internet (no charge), gourmet coffee, and both a tub and shower in the single bathroom. Our only inconvenience: the bathroom didn’t lend to much privacy with its two entrances (one from the living area and one from the bedroom.

Date last visited:

June 2013

Room rates:

At the time of my stay, room rates started at $199/night. Seasonal discounts can be found.

Dining:

Hyatt’s dedication to healthy, locally-sourced food is carried out at the Escala. At the Escala Provisions Company, both a restaurant and an on-site market, kids can eat off the innovative By Kids, For Kids menu (we’ve sampled this at Hyatt at Olive 8 in Seattle) and grab-and-go wraps, sandwiches, and soups are easy to order all day long. This dining option does not come cheap, so families will want to also grocery shop before arrival and utilize suite kitchens.

Learn more about things to do in Park City!

Distance from the interstate:

Just minutes from I-80

Directions:

The Hyatt Escala is located at 3551 N Escala Ct, Park City. From UT-224 headed into town, take a left at Canyons Resort Drive, then turn right onto High Mountain Road.

Five day guided rafting trips Rogue River review with O.A.R.S.

July 17, 2013 By Amy Hagstrom

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 experience, plus river rafting tips.

Day 1:

Day 1 actually starts the evening before departure, with a meeting at departure point Morrison Rogue River Lodge. We met our lead guide Laurie at this point, who handed out dry sacks in which we were to pack our personal belongings and sleep kits. (Families can bring their own sleeping bags and pads, or rent from OARS.) Laurie answered any last-minute questions, and let us know our departure time for the river the following day (8:30 am). This was also the point at which we met our fellow rafting partners. On our July trip, we had a total of 11 clients in the group: a family of four (kids aged 7 and 10), family of three (kid aged 10), family of two (myself and son Calvin, aged 12), and couple of two.

We departed from Almeda Bar the next morning (a very short van ride from Morrison’s), and met our additional three guides, Alyssa, Noah, and Jenae. After a safety talk from guide Alyssa and an introduction to our modes of transportation on the river: oar (gear) boats and inflatable single and double kayaks (or duckies), we floated through mild riffles and flat water, a good warm-up for our first challenge: Rainie Falls. Rainie is a Class V rapid, but there is an optional Class IV route, which we took. Rafters 12 and up had the option of ‘duckying’ through; the rest of us rode as passengers on the sturdy gear boats. Calvin opted to ducky: it’s worth noting that lead guide Laurie had, in only a few hours time, already been able to access his ability level as competent for this challenge.

We stopped for our first lunch shortly after Rainie Falls, where we were introduced to food procedures. OARS always has a hand-washing station set up by the food table, as well as ice-cold water and a ‘juice of the day’. Rafters use assigned OARS mugs throughout the trip. Lunch blew us all away: delicious cold cuts and pulled pork sandwiches, along with appetizers of crackers and cheese and fresh fruit. There’s always a cookie option for dessert!

We rafted another few hours, stopping periodically where our guides knew of good ‘jumping rocks’ and swimming holes, then made camp at a sandy beach overlooking the water. We were introduced to the ‘groover’, the portable toilet system (if you’re used to camping, this will be no big deal), and our first of many delicious dinners (baked salmon with cobbler for dessert). Wine, beer, and soda are available at dinner.

Day 2:

By Day 2, we felt we had gotten our feet wet (pun intended) and more people were eager to try the duckies. We had mild water in the morning, making for a perfect opportunity for the younger kids to kayak. Our guides stopped for lunch near a short hike to a historic cabin (Whisky Cabin) and excellent swimming hole in a nearby creek. We spotted rattlesnakes on Day 2, as well as bald eagles and osprey. We camped on Day 2 on a gravel bar on the shore, perfect for the fishermen in our group. The rest of us swam, played games with the guides, and played cards.

Day 3:

During our evening pow-wow the night before (during which the guides let us know the plan for the following day), we learned that we’d have a short river day on Day 3, allowing us to reach our desired campsite before others (its beauty and location make it popular). While I was initially disappointed to be stopping before lunch, I quickly realized that a day off the water still meant a day of fun. Our camp was between the river, a sandy beach, and a creek, with the historic Rogue River Ranch (with museum) above us. We explored the ranch, played games, swam, and creek hiked all afternoon, with no worry about ‘what’s for dinner’, food prep, or clean-up. Our energetic guides had everything under control. I loved having time for journal writing and novel reading while the guides led field games at the ranch.

Day 4:

By Day 4, our small group had really gelled, and the kids very much enjoyed each other’s company. We had a big day on the river: exciting Blossom Bar rapids and scenic yet challenging Mule Creek Canyon. Our morning started with a swim test (after a breakfast of eggs benedict), necessary for anyone wanting to ducky through the canyon. Calvin and one adult tried and passed. (The swim test involves purposely tipping over your kayak, swimming, flipping it back over in the water, and getting back in.)

We scouted Blossom Bar before rolling up the duckies and taking the gear rafts through, then re-inflated them for Mule Creek Canyon. Our ‘ducky-ers’ did great, despite our guide losing an oar boat oar to the jagged rocks. We emerged from Mule Creek Canyon at Paradise Lodge, a unique lodge accessible only by river, and enjoyed ice creams on the sunny deck overlooking the water. We camped nearby, celebrating the 4th of July with yet another gourmet dinner and dessert. The guides surprised us with a corn-on-the-cob eating contest and birthday cake for Calvin and another rafter. Their culinary skills were truly amazing.

Day 5:

Our last day took us through more beautiful scenery and our best ‘rock jump’ yet: up Tate Creek to a swimming hole with a rope climb to a natural water slide. We pulled off the river once more for yet another jump into the Rogue, photos by yet another waterfall, and yet another excellent lunch (tuna salad sandwiches and lox). Departing the river at Foster Bar, none of us were quite ready to be done.

River rafting tips:

1. Ask about your fellow rafters before booking. We had a great group of people, but don’t just hope to get lucky: inquire about the demographic of your group before committing. Definitely aim for a trip with other kids attending if you’re bringing your own. Kids will have fun even if they are the only ones underage, but a big part of the enjoyment for us was the fellow rafters.

2. Leave modesty at home. If you’re not squeamish about the ‘groover’, you’ll have a better time. The unit is always set up somewhere private, but it’s still in the outdoors (no walls or doors to lock). Toilet situation aside, you’ll be spending multiple days camping with strangers; after Day 1, we were quite comfortable with one another.

3. Follow the packing list. The OARS packing list is very thorough, and we found it very useful. Even if you don’t think you’ll need rain gear or a jacket, bring what’s on the list. It’s also helpful to have comfortable shoes for in camp at night. Opt to use one of OARS sleeping pads instead of a Therma-Rest style: they are three-times as thick and comfortable!

4. Bring camp toys. Even following the packing list to a ‘T’, you’ll have room for a few toys. Bring a Nerf ball or deck of cards, or even lawn games. If you think you’d like to fish, bring your equipment (room will be made on the boats) and a license.

5. Definitely have a good hat and two pairs of sunglasses each. We lost two pairs on the water, and we were thankful for our hats from day 1.

6. Don’t bring food. You won’t need any. Really.

7. Bring a tip. I put mine (cash) in an envelope inside a small dry back (available at sports stores). The lead guide does not return home with you on the van after the trip, and it’s best to give it directly to him or her to distribute. These guides earn their tips (and more) and it will be safe on the trip.

Disclaimer: We experienced OARS as guests of the tour operation, for the purpose of review.

The Lodge at Running Y Ranch: a Holiday Inn Resort in Southern Oregon

July 15, 2013 By Amy Hagstrom

In remote Southern Oregon at the edge of the Cascades, just outside the small town of Klamath River, The Running Y Ranch offers relaxation and fun for families. This golf community of private homes, condos, and guest rooms is small enough to feel cozy, yet large enough to have everything families want: high-end dining, recreation, pampering, and outdoor adventure. The property is within easy driving distance of mountain lakes, Crater Lake National Park, and world-class fly fishing.

The Lodge at Running Y:

Guests will want to book at The Lodge at Running Y, a Holiday Inn Resort property. This lodge reflects the feel of the rest of the property: it’s intimate without being small. The spacious lobby–which is modern and fresh–is appointed with fireplace, cozy chairs, and an outdoor recreation center (more on that below), and the grounds include deck and lawn space with seating overlooking the resort, nice landscaping, and beautiful golf course and Klamath Basin views.

We stayed in two adjoining standard rooms, appointed with Holiday Inn Resort touches (we love the pillows and beds of this brand). Rooms include mini-fridges and microwaves for easy breakfast preparation and snacking, plus free wifi, decent coffee, and spacious bathrooms. (Some rooms have only a shower while others have shower/tub combination.) The only thing our rooms lacked that we missed: balconies on which to enjoy the nice views. From our windows, we saw eagles, pelicans, and deer during out visit.

Golf:

Golf is a central sport at The Running Y, but not as much part of the lifeblood of the resort as at some other Oregon resorts. Meaning, if you don’t golf, you won’t feel as though you’re missing the main aspect of the property. There is one 18-hole Arnold Palmer-designed course, which is challenging and beautiful. We took the kids out on the links for 9 holes, and everyone at the golf clubhouse from the golf pro to the starter was very friendly and welcoming to kids on the course. The other golfers sharing the course with us that day were relaxed and casual (no uptight golfers on our visit!) and we were able to relax and let the kids play at their pace for the most part (not always true everywhere). With no fewer than five tee boxes, there was a tee for everyone to play his own game. If you get hungry on the course, there’s both a mobile snack cart which makes an appearance or two, plus a sandwich and hot dog counter at the clubhouse for lunch at the turn.

Also of note: take the kids for a practice run on the Running Y putting course: it’s a very fun 18 hole course that’s perfect for a warm-up the day before golfing or in place of golfing for young kids!

Sports Center:

When not golfing, your whole family will want to be at the Running Y sports center. Located adjacent to the lodge, this complex includes a beautiful indoor pool, hot tub, and children’s wading pool, a sauna, nice locker rooms, tennis courts, an outdoor basketball court, a ping pong table, pool table, and air hockey table. There’s also a children’s playground on the grounds, and sun decks with lounge chairs. The Sports Center is also home to a cardio room, exercise room holding daily classes, and the spa. The center is open early and stays open late, making it the place families gather before the day’s activities and after.

Spa:

The Running Y spa is small, but friendly and of high quality. It lacks a large relaxation room area (though does have a small one), and shares the locker room with the pool, so you don’t feel truly transported into a calming environment until you’re in the treatment rooms, but once there, you’re certainly taken care of. Guests can enjoy massage services, facials, pedicures, manicures, and waxing services, plus there’s a hair salon with stylist. I opted for a much-needed pedicure and manicure after days on the road hiking, biking, and swimming, and thoroughly enjoyed my time with Stephanie: she was a great source of information on the resort and area, plus simply great company.

Dining:

The Ruddy Duck is located just off the lobby of the Lodge at the Running Y, and serves breakfast and dinner in a warm, casual environment. The views onto the golf course are lovely, and deck seating in summer allows families to stay out-of-doors at dinnertime to continue watching for swooping eagles and other wildlife.Kids eat free off the kids’ menu at the Ruddy Duck when dining with an adult and staying at the lodge (part of a larger Holiday Inn Resort program) and the food is excellent. Dinner is on the costly side for a family (thank goodness for the free kids’ meals) but wonderfully prepared: we recommend the salmon and the tri-tip sandwich most. Breakfast is very affordable and delicious, ranging from pancakes and eggs to breakfast burritos and french toast. There’s a full bar in the evenings, and a small store on-property if you need basic supplies.

Nature Programs:

The Running Y is situated in the heart of the Klamath Basin, adjacent to the very large Klamath Lake and many hiking trails and scenic vistas. The ranch plays host to a number of outdoor opportunities throughout the year, including complimentary birding presentations and guided hikes through arrangements with local chapters of the Audabon Society and land trust. During our visit, we were lucky enough to be present for the opening hike of the Skillet Handle trail, which Running Y residents and staff cleared themselves. We watched a birding slideshow at the lodge to better acquaint ourselves with what birds we’d view on the trail, then drove a short distance from the lodge to the trailhead. The trail itself was moderate, and now that we know where it is, we can easily hike it solo on our next visit. To hike the 2 mile Skillet Handle, drive past the pro shop over the top of the hill to the far side of the resort property by the lake. The parking lot is marked. Where the utility road splits, take the single track trail.

Partnership with Roe Outfitters;

For families looking for more outdoor adventure while in the Klamath Basin, The Running Y offers multiple packages with Roe Outfitters. This local outdoor company has been leading trips in the area for 30 years, and owner Darren Roe is a pro in every sense of the word. Roe offers guided fishing trips, river rafting on both the Klamath and the Rogue rivers, and boating on Klamath Lake. We joined Darren Roe for his sunset cruise on the lake, which I told him afterword should be called an ‘adventure cruise’: everything about the excursion was high-energy, fast-paced, and big on fun. His answer was the trademark of any good outdoor operation: the cruise is adapted to suit the guests, and he knew our school-aged boys would love an active experience. He was right. We learned a lot about this unique lake during our cruise, but what the boys remember most: helping to drive the 22 foot jet boat, seeing bald eagles and pelicans, and getting splashed on quick turns.

Date last visited: June 2013

Distance from the interstate: Right off Highway 97 in Klamath Falls, and directly on Highway 140.

Room rates: At the time of our visit, rates for a double bed room were $199.

Directions: The Running Y is located at 5500 Running Y Road. From Bend, take Highway 97 to Highway 140 (toward Medford). From I-5 in California, exit at Medford and take 140.

Disclaimer: we experienced The Lodge at Running Y as guests of the resort, for the purpose of review. This hospitality came with no expectation of a positive review.

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Top 10 Toronto kid-friendly activities for families

July 12, 2013 By Amy Hagstrom

We love Toronto kid-friendly activities! Don’t let this bustling center for business and commerce intimidate you! Families visiting Toronto will find much to do with kids, and much to love amid the busy streets and lively waterfront. Plus, Toronto public transit is very intuitive and affordable: with only two major subway lines, you won’t get lost! Leave your car at the hotel, and ride, boat, or walk to all of the following top Toronto attractions. Don’t forget to buy a Toronto CityPASS or Go Card to save cash while you play!

Tip! Save up to 43% on Toronto’s 5 best attractions at CityPASS. Shop Now!

Click on the arrow on the right of the first image to play the slideshow.

[slideshow gallery_id=”2″]

Photo credit: Pit Stops for Kids, Bobolink, waterfronttoronto.ca

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A walk through Toronto’s St. Lawrence Market

July 10, 2013 By Amy Hagstrom

The historic St. Lawrence Hall houses the St. Lawrence Market, a farmer’s market nirvana teaming with the freshest local produce, fruits, berries, and homemade jams, syrups, and crafts. Families will also find stalls selling local meats, desserts and pastries, fresh sandwiches, and just about anything else you can imagine. The St. Lawrence Market is a great place to spend a rainy or cold day in Toronto, or the best spot to pick up a picnic or to-go lunch to eat along the Waterfront or over on Centre Island.

There are two levels within the market building, plus tents selling wares in nice weather outside. If you get there early (before 8 am), you can usually see trucks dropping off the day’s produce from Ontario farms. The main floor level sells aisle after aisle of produce, berries, fruits, and meats, as well stalls with bakery goods and ethics foods (we saw Indian, Thai, and Chinese foods while we were there). Seating is scarce, so you’re better off taking food to go.

While you could certainly spend the better part of an hour sampling the fruit, veggies, hams, bacon, and cheese upstairs, don’t leave without checking out the downstairs section. This part of the market is primarily reserved for rare or speciality items, making it both educational and fun for kids (and adults). Check out row after row of exotic spices (most of which you may never have heard of!), gourmet cheeses and meats, speciality candies, and local homemade goods such as pure maple syrup. There are a few fabric and toy stalls as well, and random offerings of trinkets here and there, but St. Lawrence is primarily about the food!

Hours of operation:

Check the website for up-to-date hours, as they change seasonally. During the time of our visit (early summer), St. Lawrence is open weekends from 5 am to 3 pm.

Directions:

The market is located at St. Lawrence Hall at the corner of Front Street and Jarvis.

Toronto on Dwellable

Toronto Islands: Centre Island activities kids love

July 8, 2013 By Amy Hagstrom

Visible from Toronto’s Waterfront and harbor, the Toronto Islands are easily accessible, easy to navigate, and easy to see in one day. Pick a sunny day of your Toronto family vacation to check them out! While a few islands are largely residential (or home to sailboat slips) or wildlife refuges, Centre Island is all about family fun. Here’s where to start for Centre Island activities kids love:

Franklin Children’s Garden and Park:

The first thing you’re likely to encounter after getting off the ferry on the islands is the Franklin Children’s Garden, Centre Island’s main picnic and playground park. This interactive garden–featuring Franklin the Turtle from the books series by Paulette Bourgeois–allows kids to explore in any manner they’d like. The garden is divided into sections, where kids can garden themselves, listen to storytelling, or play on hands-on sculptures from the Franklin series.

Gibraltar Point Lighthouse:

The Island Lighthouse is the oldest landmark in Toronto. Sitting on Gibraltar Point, it’s light has shone for over 150 years, guiding ships and boats into the Harbour of Toronto. The light is a good destination for a family bike ride: it allows kids to have a fun goal and the route is completely flat. If you’re riding bikes as a family on the islands, you can find them at Centre Island beach, or you can rent in the city and bring bikes across on the ferry.

Centreville:

With 600 acres of amusement park fun, Centreville is no doubt the prime destination for families on the islands. Centreville is from the old-school of amusement park fun: its 30 rides are all young-kid friendly and have been around for decades. In addition to carnival-ride fun, Centreville has a petting zoo, green spaces, over a dozen food vendors and restaurants, and entertainment. Don’t expect big theme park thrills, but rather low-key fun.

Centre Island Beach:

A short walk from the ferry docks, Centre Island Beach can get crowded on summer days…get there early to stake out a spot! Public bathrooms and showers are available, as are changing rooms and several food vendors (including pizza). The bike rental shop is near the pier. While there are a few other swimming beaches on the islands (including a clothing-optional beach…you’ve been warned!), Centre Island beach is most popular due to its proximity to the ferry and the rock breakwater, which is ideal for young kids. The water here is shallow and calm, and clean to swim in due to its position away from the harbor. Remember, however: Lake Ontario is pretty chilly!

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Getting there:

Access Centre Island one of two ways: 1. grab a ferry from the ferry terminal at 9 Queens Quay West ($6.50/adult, runs year-round and every 15 minutes in summer) 2. take a Toronto Harbour Tour (LINK), which drops families off if desired at the mid-way point of the tour, picking up on the hour ($15-$25). From the ferry drop-off, it’s easy to find Centre Island activities by signage, or grab a map!