What to do in Cody Wyoming with kids: a night out at the Cody Nite Rodeo

August 5, 2013 By

They don’t call Cody, Wyoming the Rodeo Capital of the World for nothing. Every night in Cody from June 1 through August 31, the Cody Nite Rodeo is held at Stampede Park. That’s right…every single night! This Western town is rodeo crazy, and after a night under the lights in the park with the backdrop of rocky bluffs overlooking the Shoshone River, you’ll understand why.

cody nite rodeo

The Nite Rodeo is two hours of non-stop rodeo action, from bronco riding to barrel racing to roping to bull riding, and it draws rodeo athletes from all over the West. The emcee and rodeo clown keep everyone entertained between events, and the popcorn, soda, beer, and candy flow freely (which is not to say they’re free!).

We loved that while the Nite Rodeo grandstands were filled with tourists, locals certainly made their presence known: it was easy to see that this was as much their summer tradition as it was our vacation stop. Local cowboys rode in events, local kids sat astride the bull pen fence, and local families were in attendance. We’ve been to several ‘resort town’ rodeos, and it was easy to see that the Cody Nite Rodeo is the real deal. It’s low on frills, big on true American fun.

Cody Nite Rodeo

If you go, you’ll want to get tickets ahead of time (see below) to avoid waiting in line at the ticket booths, and we recommend crossing to the opposite side of the arena from the entrance to sit in the Buzzard’s Roost section. This side is equally shaded, but overlooks the bull pens, giving kids a better view. There’s a food concession on each side, as well as restrooms.

We ate hot dogs, corn dogs, and popcorn for dinner at the rodeo (no points for a healthy meal!) and they also serve standbys such as nachos, candy, and soda. Get there by 7:30 for the best seats, and by 8 pm if you don’t care about your view. Programs sells for $7, and they’re nice but not essential to follow what’s going on.

cody nite rodeo

Be sure to have kids 12 and under participate in the Calf Scramble. This event allows kids to go down to the arena floor to chase a pair of calves around, attempting to pull a ribbon from their tails. Prizes are given and all kids have fun. (Toby won this event at his first rodeo in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, but we weren’t as lucky this time around.)

Hours of operation:

: Every night, the rodeo starts at 8 pm and ends at 10 pm. Bring sweatshirts as it gets chilly once the sun dips below the bluffs!

Admission:

Tickets are $18 for adults (13 and up) and $8 for kids. Age six and under free. Tickets can be bought on-site, or bought ahead of time at a number of Cody locations, including the Buffalo Bill Village. Tickets are good for any show June 1 through August 31.

Directions:

The Nite Rodeo is located at Cody Stampede Park. It’s located at the west of town overlooking the Shoshone River at 519 W. Yellowstone Avenue.

Buffalo Bill Village Resort, Cody Wyoming

August 2, 2013 By

For families wanting a slice of Americana, Cody Wyoming is the place. Where to stay to carry out the theme of bygone days and Western charm? The Buffalo Bill Village Resort. Located in the heart of town on Sheridan Avenue, the Buffalo Bill Village is just that: a combination of motel rooms and cabins complete with a restaurant, saloon, and a Western boardwalk housing a friendly gift shop and the historic hotel building which serves as the front desk.

buffalo bill village

From the Village, families can easily access all of Cody’s downtown area on foot, for fun souvenir shopping, dining, and museum visits. The Buffalo Bill Center of the West is just a short mile away, and the Cody Nite Rodeo is less than two.

Families have their choice between Buffalo Bill cabins, or rooms at either the on-site Holiday Inn or Comfort Inn. While the latter two include a continental breakfast, it’s far more fun to stay in a cabin. After all, you’re in pioneer-country, right? Don’t expect a remote location, however: Buffalo Bill Village cabins are located directly behind the Comfort Inn and are spaced closely together. That said, we had quiet evenings and no problems from neighbors. The outside of the cabins sport replica log siding, and the interior is exactly what you’d expect (and hope for!) from a Western town roadside lodging option: whimsical rodeo-patterned bedspreads and curtains, wood paneling, and basic amenities.

buffalo bill village cabins

Cabins include air conditioning, double beds, TVs, and internet connection (though it was painfully slow during my visit). We had a two-room cabin with one bathroom (shower and tub). Unfortunately, there are no mini-fridges in the rooms. However, guests are invited to a nightly reception in the historic hotel building from 5-8 pm, which includes fresh fruit, soft drinks, and other snacks. Cabin guests also have use of the motel heated outdoor pool.

Dining:

On-site dining includes QT’s Restaurant, which is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. But there are many more options within walking distance. Along Sheridan (Cody’s ‘Main Street’) visitors will find Mexican cantinas, Italian restaurants, and authentic saloons. Cody’s Irma Hotel includes a family-friendly porch menu of sandwiches and burgers (get there before 6 pm to view the nightly free Western shoot-out show in the street). A good breakfast can be found at both Granny’s (across the street from the village) and MoJoe’s (on Sheridan on the west end of town).

Buffalo Bill village

Room rates:

Call directly for cabin rates, as many ‘hot deals’ abound in the summer months: 307-587-5544

Directions:

The village is located at 1701 Sheridan. Just follow Hwy 20 into town from Yellowstone National Park to the west.

Disclaimer: We experienced the Buffalo Bill Village Resort as guests of Blair Hotels and Wyoming Office of Tourism, for the purpose of review.

Exploring Cody Wyoming’s Buffalo Bill Center of the West

July 31, 2013 By

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.

Plains Indian Museum

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.

birds of prey presentation

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!

center of the west

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.

buffalo bill's center of the west

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

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.

harriman state park

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.

silver lake

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

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 the park.

spelunking at Craters of the Moon

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.

lava 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!

Craters of the Moon

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

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.

where to stay at the canyons

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.

hyatt escala

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.

hyatt escala pool

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.

hyatt escala

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

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.

OARS river rafting

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.

River Rafting OARS

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.

food on OARS trip

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.

adventure with OARS trip

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

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.

lodge at running y

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.

Running Y lobby

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.

running y ranch

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!

Running Y Ranch pool

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.

Ruddy Duck at the Running Y

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.

Running Y ranch

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.

klamath lake

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.

South on Dwellable

Summer at Park City Mountain Resort: Mountain Biking trails

June 24, 2013 By

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.

canyons bike park

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.

canyons bike park

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).

canyons bike park

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.

canyons mountain biking

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.

canyons mountain biking view

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!

red pine lodge

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. 

The Museum at Warm Springs

June 21, 2013 By

While traveling between Bend, Oregon and the base of Mt. Hood at Government Camp along remote Highway 26, one might think there’s nowhere worthy of a pit stop. Not so! The Museum at Warm Springs is nothing short of a high desert gem. Located inside the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs reservation, the museum is tucked on the side of the road near a gas station and across from the small Indian Head Casino. We’ve driven by without a glance more than once before taking the time to visit following a stay at nearby Kah-Nee-Ta Resort and Spa.

museum at warm springs

We were treated to a private tour of the museum, but visitors self-guiding will have no problem getting much out of this museum as well. Every aspect of the design has been consciously considered; in fact, the museum has won honors for its presentation. Even at the entrance, the symbolism is evident in the drum-circle arc of a front patio and brickwork depicting basket-weaving design. The interior vestibule is shaped like a long house, and a bubbling stream accompanies guests up the front walk, reminding all of the life-giving importance of water.

Inside, the museum houses collections garnered over the past 20 years from tribal members living in the area. The exhibits are incredibly well-done, and take guests from early life on the high desert and Columbia Basin through reservation life in present day. Our favorite section included a small, circular room where visitors can listen to intertribal and single tribal songs and drum beats, along with the viewing of dances on a screen.

The day-to-day ancient living of the Wasco, Warm Springs, and Paiute tribes are depicted through displays featuring lifelike models. In fact, we learned that these human replicas were created by applying molds to the faces of today’s tribal members, which were used to make the models. Guests can tour behind open displays of Native American dwellings, including teepees and buildings, to see what a traditional interior looked like. We learned about the many variations of baskets and their purposes and deeper meanings, as well as the weapons, hunting practices, and fishing practices of the native people.

An entire room is devoted to a timeline of the shift from traditional life to reservation life, starting with the Treaty of 1855 and carrying on to today. Learning how the tribal land was distributed, how three distinctly different tribes came to be located on the same reservation, and how early reservation life–including the injustice of boarding schools and the stripping of the native language from young people of the tribes–effected the native people was but well-depicted and sobering.

There are a number of hands-on activities for kids, as well as many multi-media presentations to keep them engaged. The museum is best for school-aged kids, but even preschoolers will get much out of it. Tip: on your way out, look for the single missing ‘bead’ in the brickwork on the outside of the building. In Warm Springs intertribal culture, every traditional basket and beadwork design has one mistake in it, to symbolize that nothing is perfect, and this symbolism is carried over in the museum architecture. It’s hard to spot!

Distance from the interstate:

Directly on Highway 26, approximately  one hour from Highway 97 in Bend or almost 2 hours from I-84.

Admission and hours:

The museum is extremely affordable at $7 for adults, $4.50 for students (13-17), and $3.50 for kids (age four and under are free). Open 9 am to 5 pm daily in the spring/summer season. Check site for winter hours.

Food services:

No food services on-site, though there are nice picnic areas and a short walking trail. Families could easily make this a picnic lunch stop and museum visit.

Directions:

From Bend, proceed north on Highway 97 past Redmond (15 miles) and Madras (26 miles) to Warm Springs (14 miles). From Portland, travel Highway 26 past Mt. Hood (45 miles). 105 miles total.

Disclaimer: We experienced the Museum at Warm Springs as guests of the museum.