When I knew my family and I would be spending time in Jackson Hole, Wyoming and Grand Teton National Park, I immediately looked for an OARS trip to take in the area. After our five-day Rogue River rafting trip with OARS, it was the easy choice. OARS is just that good at what they do. I’ve already talked about what sets OARS apart. In a nutshell, the guides are professionals but also become … [Read more...]
Guide to Las Vegas with kids: family-friendly Las Vegas vacation
June 1, 2021 By
There was a time when I didn't think of Las Vegas as a family-friendly trip idea, but in the past few years, Vegas hotels and attractions have made strides to be more kid-oriented. Whether your family trip focuses on Las Vegas entertainment, outdoor recreation, or dining (or all of the above), the following advice can help make your trip to Sin City much more wholesome. During this time of … [Read more...]
Zion National Park in winter
February 25, 2021 By
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...]
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...]
Road Trip Travel Hack: Stay nights at KOA Kampgrounds!
July 24, 2020 By
We love to review destination hotels and resorts, but let's face it: roadside motels booked solely for the purpose of an overnight pit stop en route on a road trip are usually nothing to write home about. Plus, an average motel stay is now over $100 per night. In the last year or so, we've been thinking outside the box (or motel room) and booking cabin, yurt, or campground stays instead. I … [Read more...]
Skiing in Utah: Eagle Point ski vacation planning
January 16, 2020 By
When planning a ski vacation in Utah, families are spoiled for choice. There are over a dozen major resorts in the Salt Lake City area alone, and many of them are probably on your radar. We love Salt Lake ski resorts, but before you make the decision to head to one of the big destination resorts of Utah, consider a little gem in the southern end of the state. What is Eagle Point, where is it, … [Read more...]
Grown-Up Getaway: Downtown Las Vegas and Fremont Street
January 10, 2019 By
If your usual Las Vegas stomping grounds include only the Strip, or if, like me, you think 'been there, done that' when it comes to a Las Vegas getaway, a stay (or even just a day) in historic downtown Las Vegas may be just what you need to see this city from a different perspective. Downtown Las Vegas is located toward the 'top' of the Strip, above the Stratosphere, and retains some of the … [Read more...]
Where to ski in Utah: Brian Head Resort with kids
February 13, 2017 By
Deciding where to ski in Utah is a little like deciding which tropical island to buy...you really can't go wrong, wherever you choose. That said, there are distinct differences between Utah resorts, and perhaps an even bigger difference between Salt Lake City and Provo area resort and Southern Utah resorts. For the first time, I explored the skiing options in Southern Utah, where I loved the … [Read more...]
Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
November 9, 2015 By
Just 20 minutes from the bright and bustling Las Vegas strip, Red Rock Canyon can be a welcome respite from the crowds, especially in the spring or fall. (If visiting in summer, try to make it a morning expedition.) Start at the visitor's center, located at the start of the scenic loop drive. The Canyon Interpretive Association puts on occasional classes and programs, so check when you … [Read more...]
