Adventures - Pitstops for Kids

Winter at the Utah Olympic Park with kids

December 4, 2013 By Amy Hagstrom

While exploring Park City Utah with kids, families will want to reserve time to visit the Utah Olympic Park. This half-day excursion is only minutes from Park City Utah, and 25 miles from Salt Lake City.

The Utah Olympic Park is the site of several winter sports in the 2002 Winter Games, and is still home to several Olympic teams and hopefuls. Most days, visitors can see training in process on the high jump or luge, bobsled, or skeleton events.

What to do at Utah Olympic Park:

Start at the Olympic museum, where you’ll learn about general winter sport Olympic history as well as the details behind the Salt Lake City games. The museum is free for all, making it a great introduction to the park. If you have very young kids, you may want to simply walk around outside the museum area to watch skiers on the jumps and practicing their flips and spins.

If you have older kids or teens, it’s worth paying for the guided tour, which takes you in a van up to the top of the high jump slopes and to view the luge and bobsled track. Both are very impressive facilities…and looking down the ski jump course is enough to give you deep respect for the athletes who brave it! The tour can include to ride on the ski lift chair up and down from some sites.

For those extremely daring (and 16 or older), a ride down the bobsled course behind a professional driver is a major thrill. I’d consider it a once-in-a-lifetime activity: while I enjoyed the experience, I don’t need to do it again! The bobsled team will warn all visitors that this activity is extremely physical: if you have any healthy issues, it’s not for you. Unlike many ‘extreme’ activities that are pretty tame, the bobsled trip is the real deal: expect a bumpy, intense, and possibly unsettling ride! I recommend it wholeheartedly for those up for the challenge. Family members who wish to watch can do so along several points of the track. This activity is costly, but worth budgeting for on special occasions.

In summer months, families can also try the zip line, adventure course, and exhibition shows every weekend. We love the deal on the zip lines and high ropes courses: there are numerous lines and courses, all for one price of $40 for kids. Go all day! Read our summer review.

Date last visited:

March 2013

Distance from the interstate:

Minutes from I-80.

Admission:

Free

Hours of operation:

10 am to 6 pm daily

Directions:

The Utah Olympic Park is located at 3419 Olympic Pkwy. From Park City or The Canyons Resort, easily follow well-marked signage.

Bouldering with kids: Mill Creek and Avenue of the Boulders OR

November 25, 2013 By Amy Hagstrom

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: another great way to get kids to enjoy the outdoors is geo-caching.

Bouldering with kids is easy in Southern Oregon, where many volcanic rock formations await. Tobias (age 8) spent the day bouldering and hiking with his grandpa in Prospect, Oregon, which is located on Highway 62 en route to Crater Lake National Park. This part of the drive to the lake is a great place to stop and stretch legs with a moderate hiking/climbing experience.

Mill Creek Falls and Avenue of the Boulders

These falls are a short hike from the parking lot, but from the falls you can hike further to the Avenue of Boulders at the base. This veritable ‘city’ of boulders fall in a neat row, then in a group, looking like a skyline from afar. Between the boulders are calm pools of water, sandy beaches, and lots of opportunities to climb around, up, and over. If you plan to do serious bouldering here, definitely bring mats and helmets, but kids can get pretty adventurous and still be safely close to the ground.

Natural Bridge

Next, head over to Union Creek, Oregon, just up the road along Highway 62. This area offers a trailhead at Natural Bridge Trail to a series of lava tubes that wind under and through the often fast-flowing Rogue River. Not only are the tubes beautiful, but they’re fascinating for kids. Challenge kids to find hollow lava rocks and see if they’ll float in the calmer water at the end of the hike. Families can take a 2.4 mile loop, or just walk across two bridges to observe the lava tubes and the rapids. There’s a primitive campground adjacent, and bathrooms with pit toilets. In the summer months, you’ll want to picnic. Tip: grab a piece of pie or a berry smoothie after your hike at Beckie’s, world famous for their food (or at least world famous in Southern Oregon!).

Travel Gear We Use: Stonz Wear Rain Bootz and Linerz:
Stonz is a children’s outerwear and boot company homegrown in Vancouver, BC. Our Pit Stops’ kids wore Stonz rain boots on our Mill Creek adventure. Stonz rain boots are made of natural rubber, and parents can buy them with optional soft, fuzzy liners that kids love. They slide on easily, but stay put while exploring creeks, muddy river banks, and other outdoor destinations. Best of all, they can be sprayed down with water after you get home, and the liners are machine washable. Buy Stonz Rain Bootz on Amazon or Zappos, or find more Travel Gear We Use.

Directions: Once on Highway 62 (grab this from I-5 in Medford, Oregon), follow marked signs to all the above destinations.

Also nearby: Take a hike along the Upper Rogue River.

The above post was written in partnership with Stonzwear.com. Photo credit: flickr.com/AlaskanDude

Lake Louise Alberta hiking: Lake Agnes Tea House

October 30, 2013 By Amy Hagstrom

The wilderness surrounding Lake Louise, Alberta may be the most stunningly beautiful in the greater Banff-Lake Louise area. And if you’ve been to Banff, you know that’s saying something. Plenty of backcountry treks depart from Lake Louise and its next-door neighbor, Lake Moraine, making Lake Louise Alberta hiking some of the best in the Canadian Rockies. Our favorite–to the Lake Agnes Tea House–is also one of the most family-friendly. Side note: does this photo even look real? I assure you it is!

The ascent to Lake Agnes is just that…an ascent. Hikers start at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise and take the well-marked Lake Agnes trail, which climbs for the entire 3.5 km. (This is good news for the hike back, of course.) The way may be steadily uphill, but it’s not unmanageable for kids, and because the entire trip is only 7 km, families can take their time.

The first section of the trail parallels Lake Louise, but without the views: the way is dense forest. Once the end of the lake is reached, however, the forest clears for nice views of the far end of Lake Louise before the trail turns into a short series of switchbacks. This takes hikers to a stop at tiny Mirror Lake, then to a turnoff for Little Beehive. Turn here for a fairly easy ascent to a nice viewpoint of the valley, including great views of Lake Louise in her entirety. If you go this route, simply backtrack after checking out the Little Beehive view and return to the turnoff. If you opt to continue on to Lake Agnes, the trail takes you back into the forest for a short distance to a cascading waterfall and set of wooden stairs leading to the lake and tea house.

The Lake Agnes Tea House sits perched directly on the edge of the lake, with spectacular views of the big Beehive (a beehive-shaped slab of rock you cannot miss) and the mountain crags surrounding the small lake. Take a few minutes to sit at a table on the Tea House deck to take in the view, or head inside the cozy dining room with wood-burning stove to order a pot of tea or French pressed coffee. Kids can order hot chocolate or cider, and if you arrive at lunch time, the Tea House has a selection of sandwiches, soups, and bakery goods that are made fresh daily on-site.

Take a few minutes to talk with the Tea House staff; most are young men and women from around the world, working for the season, and all live on-site. All supplies (and trash) are packing in and out of Lake Agnes on foot or horseback, and staffers are very knowledgable about area hikes and peak ascents.

The Tea House is a destination in itself, but if you’re up for more hiking, take the trail around the circumference of Lake Agnes to the series of switchbacks to the Beehive lookout. This trail is short but steep, with drop-offs in some locations. The switchbacks take you to the saddle of the ridge, which you follow to the lookout structure at the edge. The saddle is wide enough that there’s no fear of falling, but it’s essential children follow directions and stay on the trail. The views are as amazing as you’d expect.

Adding either or both Beehive to your Lake Agnes hike will add approximately 2 km to your trip, but the descent back to Lake Louise is a breeze. If you’re up for even more, the longer trail to Six Glaciers (and its own tea house) connects at Lake Agnes.

Note: The Lake Agnes Tea House is open mid-April to mid-October, and takes cash only. Seasonal hours vary, but during our off-season (fall) visit, it as open 10 am to 5 pm.

For additional hiking, check out trails departing from Lake Moraine, or go to Banff Lake Louise for more info.

Outdoor exploration with kids: Eastern Mountain Sports Schools

October 23, 2013 By Amy Hagstrom

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 to newcomers. When you join a class, all equipment is provided (except personal clothing, jackets, raingear, etc.) so it’s a great way to get started in a sport without making a big investment. Half day, full day, and even overnight classes are offered. So whether you live in the area, or are spending some time here on vacation, check out the EMS website to see what’s available near you!

We recently took a half-day beginner rock climbing class in Lake Placid, NY after introducing our five-year-old to the sport at the local climbing gym. (Tip: we paired our EMS schools class with a stay at Lake Placid’s Golden Arrow Lakeside Resort.) Our instructor was friendly and great with kids, and was able to give instructions without skimping on fun. He knew of a great beginner site that was just a short hike off the road, and Homer got to try out a number of different ascents, ranging in difficulty. He must have climbed that cliff 15 times before he asked for a break!

An EMS climbing class may seem expensive ($350 for a family of 4 or 5 people, full day), but when you consider the cost of equipment, and the importance of an instructor who is going to do a lot of the grunt work for you (think of all the ropes that need to be fixed at the top before you even start!), the price sounds pretty reasonable. Overall, it was a great experience, and I’ll definitely check out what is offered by EMS schools before my next New England/New York getaway!

Check out their website to see what’s on offer near you. Classes are located in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Vermont, and New York.

Date last visited: August 29, 2013

Distance from the interstate: Lake Placid is pretty remote, and is not really on the way to anything, but it’s still worth a visit! It’s about a 2 or 2 ¼ hour drive from Albany, about 30 miles off Interstate 87.

Where to stay: Read our review of Golden Arrow Lakeside Resort!

Directions / Contact:

See the EMS website for information on an activity near you. The Lake Placid store is located at 2453 Main Street, Lake Placid, NY 12946; tel: (518) 523-2505

As we disclose whenever applicable, we experienced EMS Schools as guests of EMS, for the purpose of review.

Mississippi Gulf Coast with kids: three family friendly outdoor activities

October 17, 2013 By Amy Hagstrom

The Mississippi Gulf Coast is often overlooked by families heading South to warm waters and a warm climate, but like its neighbors Alabama and Florida, the coastline of Mississippi plays host to temperate weather, sandy beaches, and family-friendly hospitality. While a trip to the beach is definitely an option during a trip to the Mississippi Gulf Coast with kids, there’s more to do outdoors than work on your tan. Our top activities to pursue on family vacations in the region:

1. Go fishing:

Mississippi offers year-round fishing adventures for families, ranging from full or half days on chartered boats or family afternoons along the pier. And fishing trips in Mississippi aren’t just about catching fish: twelve miles off the coast lay the barrier islands, a natural area protected from commercial development. Families can enjoy untouched beaches and fish from the shore. Find top picks for Gulf Coast fishing expeditions.

2. Ride a bike:

One of the best ways to explore the coast of Mississippi is by bicycle. Try the 15.5 mile (round-trip) ride along the Live Oak Bicycle Route, taking families along the seashore and across the new Biloxi Bay Bridge. Stop here for a photo op; the bridge offers one of the best views of the Gulf of Mexico. After working up a sweat, hit a local beach to cool off. We recommend taking your pick of beaches along Highway 90’s twenty-six miles of white sand beaches.

3. Take a swamp tour:

An iconic adventure of the South, a swamp tour in Mississippi combines a lesson in ecosystems and terrain with a fun ride for the kids. Families will see wildlife (yes, that means alligators!) and explore over 100 acres of pristine swamp land near the Grand Bay Estuary in Moss Point or along the Pascagoula River. Explore via boat or closer to the water by kayak. Find top picks for Mississippi river tours.

Photo credit.

Sitka day trips: Allen Marine Sea Otter and Wildlife Quest

August 30, 2013 By Amy Hagstrom

Sitka Alaska has many attractions for families, but if time is tight and you only have one day to experience one of many Sitka day trips, spend it on the water of Sitka Sound with Allen Marine. Allen Marine has been running their wildlife tours for over 40 years, making them an authority on Sitka and wildlife and marine life viewing. Alaskan Native owned and operated, the company guarantees wildlife sightings while on board their vessels.

We took their Sea Otter and Wildlife Quest tour of the Sitka Sound as part of our Alaskan Dream Cruises itinerary (also run by Allen Marine), which took us amid the many small islands off the sound for a three hour tour.

What sets Allen Marine apart:

We were happily surprised to see that Allen Marine provides a naturalist onboard all their day excursion vessels. Our naturalist, in partnership with our boat’s experienced captain, was able to point out details our untrained eye would have missed, such as an eaglet in a known-to-locals bald eagle’s nest and a bird sanctuary not usually part of a standard Sitka itinerary. The waterjet tour boat is two-stories, with wall-to-wall windows for viewing and a covered sun deck for some air. Snacks, coffee, hot chocolate, and tea are complementary, as are the use of high quality binoculars (enough for everyone).

In addition to showing us sea otters, Stellar sea lions, eagles, bears, and sea birds, our naturalist had many tactile lessons on-hand for the kids (and adults), such as feathers, leaves, skins, and furs to use as educational tools. We didn’t expect such a knowledgable crew! Tip: dress in layers and have a rain jacket and gloves on-hand to really enjoy the observation deck.

Date last visited: July 2013

Reservation information: Book directly with Allen Marine, or check your cruise ship’s excursion listings…they’re likely on there! Cost information is available by calling Allen Marine or through your cruise line.

Directions: Boats pick guests up directly from cruise ships, or from select docks in Sitka.

Not visiting Sitka? Allen Marine offers similar tours in both Juneau and Ketchikan.

Summer activities at Utah Olympic Park

August 16, 2013 By Amy Hagstrom

If you’re staying in Park City, Utah in summer, definitely take time away from historic downtown and your resort pool to play for the day at Utah Olympic Park. Fun in winter, the park is even more action-packed during the summer months. Here’s what you can expect in terms of summer activities at Utah Olympic Park.

See Olympians training:

The park was built for the 2002 Olympic Games, and remains a training ground for ski jump, bobsled, and more. Most days at the park, guests can watch youth and adults training at the facilities. There’s also a free museum on Olympic history that’s well worth checking out.

Play on the zip-lines and ropes course:

For only $40 per person (far less than the cost of a ski ticket in winter!), kids get unlimited use of zip-lines, high ropes courses, and more. Guests choose from three levels of Adventure Courses: our eight-year-old opted for the most basic course, but quickly realized he was ready for more. It was no problem to send him on his way to try the more challenging elements. We loved the flexibility of the courses, and the all-inclusive rate. Kids as young as five can start on the Discovery Adventure. The Canyons Adventure is designed for age seven and up, while the Summit Adventure is for the most daring. There’s even a Drop Tower for taller kids.

Try a chair lift ride:

For kids who are not skiers, a chair lift ride is a great way to experience a fun aspect of the sport. And the views from the top of the chair include most of the valley, plus a new perspective on the challenging ski jump chute. Rides are inexpensive and a great compliment to a museum visit for younger kids or adults.

Go on the bobsled:

Older kids can experience the thrill of a bobsled ride on the only full-length course in North America. This ride is less intense than its winter equivalent (and less expensive) but still offers 5 G’s of force as you twist and turn down 15 curves behind a professional driver.

Experience zip-lines:

The Utah Olympic Park zip lines propel riders 50 mph. We loved that there are two side by side, so family members can enjoy this together. There’s also a more kid-friendly freestyle zip-line, which is shorter and less steep.

Try the alpine slide:

Perfect for younger kids, the alpine slide is tame enough for anyone (kids can ride with parents) but exciting enough to keep teens entertained riding solo. The slide is built with stainless steel construction, with straight-aways, drops and 18 banked turns.

Date last visited: June 2013

Distance from the interstate: minutes from I-40

Admission: Gold Day Pass is $65 for adults, $40 for kids, and includes everything except the bobsled ride ($75 extra cost). Some activities are unlimited. See details. Single activities can be purchased separately as well, for very reasonable prices between $5-$15.

Summer hours: hours for various activities vary, but generally, attractions start opening by 10 am and close at 6 pm.

Directions: The Utah Olympic Park is located at 3419 Olympic Pkwy. From Park City or The Canyons Resort, easily follow well-marked signage.

This post written in partnership with VacationRoost. We were not compensated for reviewing any of the activities above.

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.

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.

Summer at Park City Mountain Resort: Mountain Biking trails

June 24, 2013 By Amy Hagstrom

The Canyons Resort in Park City has the only gravity-based mountain biking in Utah. Expert riders will be well challenged on the miles of black diamond-level single track trails and terrain features in the Canyons Bike Park. But that doesn’t mean there isn’t something for everybody. Whether visitors crave the adrenaline rush of lift-served bike park fun or the cardio boost of hilly mountain biking trails, Canyons Resort in Park City have both all summer long…at every level.

We visited at the start of their second full bike park season, and found a full operation under way. Start at Canyon Mtn Rentals, where families can buy Red Pine Gondola tickets for just $10 per person or High Meadow bike park tickets for $30. The difference: the gondola ticket will grant you access to mountain bike trails and single track with uphill and downhill, whereas the bike park ticket will allow you to enjoy chairlift served downhill only trails.

Bike rentals are also available at Canyon Mountain Rentals, of course, for $110 all day, $85 half day. This sounds steep (no pun intended), but these are top rate downhill mountain bikes, and come with a protective gear package. (Gear can be rented separately if that’s all you need.) We rode with a 14-year-old and 12-year-old, and protective arm and leg pads were not available in their sizes. Full face helmets were available, however. After my 14-year-old crashed hard, sending a pedal into his shin, he’d recommend opting for the leg pads even if they’re a bit big.

Note: Bike sizes are on the adult-sized end of the scale. We found bikes that properly fit our kids, but anyone under age 10 may have a hard time. (For this reason, our eight-year-old did not participate.)

The Video Review:

Where to go:

Grab a bike trail map at the base, and head up the Red Pine Gondola. From the Red Pine Lodge, it’s easy to access the bike park with a High Meadow pass, or start on regular mountain bike trails without. Either way, you’ll want to return to Red Pine Lodge for lunch: during the summer months, this quick service option serves favorites from all the winter restaurant venues. The salads in particular are excellent, and the sun deck makes for a great place to compare feats (or injuries).

In the bike park:

If you’re a novice, definitely start with White Rabbit, the easiest course. Progress from there to Flying Salmon, a green beginner trail, then be advised that the next trail up, Wild Mouse, is quite a bit harder. We had been gravity-based biking only once before, and the beginner runs at The Canyons were just right for us.

On the trails:

It’s easy to get on the wrong trail as you navigate the mountain, even though the trails are marked. Disregard the ski run signage, and follow the smaller bike markers. For beginners and intermediates, the popular Mid-Mountain trail is challenging with some fairly steep ups for the first mile. (To access, start at the zip-line hut just above Red Pine Lodge.) Unless you’re an expert, you’re better off skipping the black diamond bike trails (as they are downhill only and can include steep switchbacks and drops. We found ourselves unwittingly on one at one point, and navigated it very slowly (a luxury only possible in non-bike park areas). Even so, we had some falls and injuries. Respect the trails, and follow the advise of the ratings.

For a nice four-mile ride from Red Pine Lodge to the base area, take Mid-Mountain to Ambush (both intermediate). If you miss the corner to Mid-Mountain at the Orange Bubble Express, as we did, you can connect with Richochet (expert, but we navigated it ok) to Short Swing (intermediate, but I crashed hard), to Ambush.

Note: Trust the level ratings of the trails, but know that conditions, such as loose rocks, mud, etc can change. For this reason, an intermediate trail one day may prove more challenging to you than an expert trail. Go slowly when in doubt! Secondly, have your kids ride in front of you: my worst wreck occurred while turning my head to look back to make sure my 12-year-old was behind me!

Single track trails also depart the Red Pine Lodge area the opposite way (west), but deposit riders a good distance from the base area. Plan to ride in the bike park or on mountain single tracks for at least 2-4 hours at the minimum, and all day at the max!

Hours:

The gondola runs 10 am to 5 pm, and the High Meadow chair (servicing the bike park) runs from 10 am to 4:30 pm (staying open late on Wednesdays all summer until 7:30 pm). Rentals are available from 9:30 am, and yes, it will take you the full half-hour to get your gear.

Want to learn about more to do in Park City and The Canyons in summer? Check out our Park City guide!

Disclaimer: Our family was hosted at The Canyons to experience the mountain bike park for the purpose of review.