National Parks and Monuments - Pitstops for Kids

National parks of Canada: Jasper National Park, Alberta

May 13, 2022 By Amy Hagstrom

Parks Canada calls Jasper National Park the ‘gentle giant of the Canadian Rockies’, but it seems pretty mighty to us. A gateway for outdoor adventure in all seasons, Jasper is known for backcountry backpacking and skiing, but also plays host to a number of family friendly destinations of the less extreme variety. Here’s what to do in Jasper National Park with kids:

Start at visitor’s centre.

When you arrive in Jasper, head to the information and visitor’s center in the heart of town, across from the VIA Rail train station. The Parks Canada staff here can point you in the direction of area hikes and any closures at the time of your visit (such as campgrounds or picnic areas). Pick up maps and ask questions, because we found Jasper National Park to be less well marked than its neighbor Banff.

Maligne Canyon:

Our favorite destination in Jasper National Park is, hands-down, Maligne Canyon. This hike takes visitors through a deep gorge through which Maligne River flows, and thanks to its network of interconnecting looped trails, can be as long or short as you need it to be. Start at the trailhead and tea house, and hike to a series of marked bridges spanning the river (we went as far as number 6), then either retrace your steps or loop back via a horse trail. The views are stunning–you’ll see waterfalls and pools, as well as places where the water disappears underground. The path can be slippery, but there are rails in place to keep young kids safe. Bring a camera!

Maligne Lake:

Above Maligne Canyon lies Maligne Lake, a summer playground with boat rides, canoe rentals, and restaurants. Picnic here in the autumn, or set out for a short hike from the adjacent trailhead.

Miette Hot Springs:

Miette Hot Springs is open May through October and is located just a short drive from Jasper in the eastern mountain range. The outdoor pool offers towering peak views while you soak in the naturally heated waters. Pair this destination at the end of a day of hiking!

Watch our Jasper and Banff National Parks video:

Where to stay in Jasper: the Tonquin Inn:

The Tonquin Inn lies just a few blocks from downtown Jasper, within 2-3 minutes by car from area destinations. A perfect blend of old school mountain motel charm and modern upgrades, the Tonquin has everything parents need: a great indoor pool and hot tub complex (complete with changing rooms), two additional outdoor hot tubs, spacious rooms with free wifi, and an excellent complimentary breakfast buffet in their attached restaurant.

Our standard room was large enough for a couch and seating area in addition to beds, and had a large TV and spacious bathroom. We were steps from the pool building and dining, and we could walk into town if desired. In the morning, we woke to elk grazing outside.

As I disclose whenever applicable, we were hosted at Tonquin Inn for the purpose of review. While we appreciate the hospitality, all opinions are our own.

Tips for Rocky Mountain National Park with kids

July 21, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the United States’ premier family destinations, a jewel in the national park crown. In the summertime, the weather is beautiful, the scenery spectacular, and the opportunity to interact with nature unparalleled. Here are some things to know to help you make the most out of visiting with your kids.

Tips for Rocky Mountain National Park with kids:

West side vs. east side:

Experts say the west side of the park (accessed via Grand Lake) is less crowded than the east side (accessed via Estes Park). However, our visit was based in Estes, so this post focuses on the east side of the park.

Be prepared:

It storms somewhere in the mountains every afternoon, and even in the valleys, the weather is very cool in the mornings and evenings. Dress in layers. Wear long pants. Hiking boots really do make a difference on the uneven terrain. Use sunscreen and bug spray, and consider investing in rain ponchos.

Trail Ridge Road:

This 48-mile drive from Estes Park to Grand Lake is an all-day adventure that climbs several thousand feet through the tree line and into the arctic tundra. Along the route you’ll find countless amazing overlooks and a handful of hiking trails, as well as the Alpine Visitors Center. Trail Ridge Road can be a great experience, but be aware that altitude sickness is a real thing. Take it slow so everyone has time to adjust, and drink lots of water.

Don’t miss out on ranger-led hikes and programs:

You can learn about stars, wildlife, ecology, and more. Schedules are available in the visitors centers. The junior ranger program is a great way to get the kids invested in the park system. Start early in your visit to give your kids plenty of time to complete the activities.

There’s a reason why the popular hikes are popular:

Many of the hiking trails in RMNP are long, and many of the shorter ones are very steep. So if your family is too young for long or steep hikes, you will be part of the throngs visiting a relatively small number of trails. Based on our experiences, I have two suggestions:

First, get up early—really early. Many of the family-friendly hikes start at Bear Lake, which is a significant drive from Estes, and the parking lot fills early. Have everything prepped the night before; go to bed early and get up at 4:30 or 5 to beat the crowds. Afternoon naps are our friends.

Second, don’t view rain as an automatic death knell to hiking. Afternoon rainstorms often pass quickly. We arrived at the Cub Lake trailhead at the start of a pop-up storm. We waited out the worst of it in the van but then donned rain ponchos and headed out. Twenty minutes later, the sun was out. Two days later we started for Alberta Falls in an intermittent drizzle, and we had the trail almost to ourselves. With ballcaps beneath rain ponchos, we didn’t really get wet at all. You might think you’re sacrificing scenery, but there is a different beauty in hiking amid the clouds. It was well worth the effort. (Caveat: lightning is a different story. As with lightning anywhere, you want to be cautious.)

Hiking with young children:

It is possible to take a stroller on some of the trails at RMNP, but in most cases your best bet is backpack carriers. No need to buy one; they’re available for rent in downtown Estes Park.

If your kids are beyond a backpack, you’ll need to plan carefully. Prep your kids in advance for longer, more strenuous hikes—not just physically, but mentally. My sister managed to get her 4-year-old daughter to Emerald Lake, a 3.6-mile round trip with an elevation gain of 605 feet, by having her pretend she was Wonder Woman.

Park amenities:

Expect to be out of cell service most of the time you’re in the park.
Stay on top of the bathroom situation. Staying well hydrated is part of an enjoyable visit at high altitudes, so you also have to stay on top the need for bathrooms. There are facilities at many trail heads, but not all.
The visitors’ centers have clean restrooms and information desks, as well as a range of services including ranger-led programs, gift shops, and educational displays.
The national park service runs shuttle buses in the Bear Lake Road Corridor late May through early October. The buses are free, but park entrance fee is required for the Hiker Shuttle, which boards outside the park. Using the buses helps traffic flow and allows you to enjoy the scenery.

It takes longer than you think it will:

Traffic through Estes Park gets backed up. The lines at the entrance stations get backed up. Construction in the park causes traffic backup. And hiking at altitude is slower and more strenuous than you might expect. Pack snacks or lunch and plenty of water, and take lots of breaks.

Fees:

Entry fees for Rocky Mountain National Park are very modest at $20 per vehicle for one day or $30 for 7 days. Fees can also be paid per person. You can purchase passes ahead of time online.

Rocky Mountain National Park is located just under two hours west of Denver, Co. Parking and services provided by the national park service are free, although a limited number of adventure outfitters are permitted to operate within the national park.

Our family was offered a media pass to RMNP by Visit Estes Park. My enthusiasm for this amazing place, however, long predates this visit.

Jamestown Settlement and Colonial National Historical Park

July 8, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

While visiting Colonial Williamsburg with kids, definitely budget half a day to visit Jamestown. Learning about this first viable settlement of Virginia rounds out the historical understanding of the area (the residents of Jamestown later migrated 10 miles to settle Williamsburg).

Jamestown is divided into two sections: the Historic Jamestowne Colonial National Historical Park is the National Park property, and features the archeological dig site of the actual Jamestown fort. The Jamestown Settlement is run separately, and features recreations of the colonists’ fort, a Powhatan village, and replicas of the three ships used by the Jamestown colonists. It also houses one of the most impressive museums in the area. Which to do? Both!

Start with the Jamestown Settlement:

We recommend starting here, watching the 30 minute film, and touring through the massive indoor museum first. Yes, even in the heat. Why? The museum gives families an excellent overview of the time period (both in the colonies and in England and Africa), and really helps kids know what they’re about to see outside. The museum follows the journey of the Jamestown colonists, and then continues chronologically all the way through the 1690’s, when Jamestown gave way to Williamsburg as a the main settlement.

Then head outside: here you’ll find the fort, Powhatan village, and ships, all with interpreters in period costume ready to answer questions and demonstrate 17th century skills. This living history tableau rivals those in Williamsburg, with scheduled programs and impromptu conversations. We especially loved the canon firing demonstration and learning about the various levels of period dress.

In total, budget at least three hours for the Settlement. Picnic food is permitted in the picnic area out front (just show your museum map to regain entry) and there’s also a cafe on-site.

Admission:
Tickets are $16 for adults and $7.50 for kids 6-12. Separate admission is required at the national park site. It’s also possible to buy Historical Triangle tickets at Williamsburg that allows entry into both Williamsburg and Jamestown Settlement.

Then head to Historic Jamestowne to see the dig sites:

This section of Jamestown is located approximately one mile away (clearly marked) and is a national park site. This is where Jamestown actually stood, discovered by archeological dig only 20 years ago. There’s a good museum here too, but if you’ve toured the Settlement museum, you may wish to skip this to head out along the boardwalk to the fort site. Here, kids can talk to working archeologists who are currently excavating the site, and see original brickwork and artifacts emerging. The site is right on the James River, and very interesting. We are only stayed one hour, but are very glad we included it in our day.

Admission: Adults are $14 and kids are free (15 and under). Pass holders are $5.

Date last visited:

June 2014

Distance from the interstate:

Twenty minutes from I-64.

Directions:

Both sites are approximately 10 minutes from Williamsburg. Follow signs along the Colonial Parkway from the Williamsburg Visitor’s Center.

Two days in Joshua Tree National Park and Indian Cove Campground with Kids

July 3, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

Joshua Tree National Park is a gem! With a higher elevation than our other favorite desert camping location, Death Valley National Park, Joshua Tree offers a desert experience with more vegetation, wildflowers, and of course, Joshua Tree’s fabled rock climbing boulders. You don’t have to be rock climbers to enjoy it, though you’ll see plenty of that ilk. Our kids absolutely loved the freedom of scrambling and bouldering to their heart’s content directly from trails and campgrounds. Here’s how to do Joshua Tree National Park with kids!

Joshua Tree is definitely worthy of a day trip from Palm Springs, but we highly recommend making two days of it (either driving in or camping). Hiking in the park is not strenuous (almost all hikes are 3 miles or less), and for the non-hikers, there’s plenty of wildflower and cacti viewing, birding, and rock climber-watching (yes, I just made that a word). Here’s what not to miss with a few days in the park:

Split Rock nature trail:

Located a few miles past the North Entrance to the park, Split Rock is often overlooked by visitors, making it almost empty during our peak season visit. (If you’re unsure where to go, ask a ranger at the Oasis Visitor Center, which should be your first stop, anyway. Split Rock is a two mile loop that takes you through yucca, Joshua Trees, and most importantly, amid towering boulders. We stopped often to let the kids climb, but whether you want to keep it a traditional hike it up to you, of course. Hikers often spot mountain goats here, though our wildlife spotting was limited to lizards, ravens, and rock climbers.

Hidden Valley:

Hidden Valley is a mecca for rock climbers (and it’s fun to watch them here), but is also a great place for kids to scramble and explore. There’s a 1 mile nature trail loop that shows the natural bowl where cattle wrestlers brought stolen cattle to hide them, but kids will be more interested in jumping from rock to rock. This area gets crowded, but there’s room to spread out and most visitors don’t go further than the first quarter mile (in our experience).

49 Palms Oasis:

When you’re ready for a trail that doesn’t involve scrambling and bouldering, try the strenuous 49 Palm Oasis loop. It takes hikers up and down canyon ridges to a very welcome palm tree oasis deep in the canyon. The actual oasis area is off-limits due to restoration, but it’s fun to count the palms (we counted 46, so there probably are 49 in actuality), sit in the shade, and check out the green vegetation around the spring. Hike this one in the morning, as there’s little shade.

Where to stay:

Joshua Tree has no fewer than nine campgrounds, as well as motel-style lodging in the towns of 29 Palms and Joshua Tree. We highly recommend camping in Joshua Tree to get the full experience of this spectacular park. There are few things to note about the campgrounds: of all nine, only Black Rock and Cottonwood offer running water and flush toilets. The remainder offer no services except pit toilets. The only reservable campgrounds are Blackrock and Indian Cove.

We stayed two nights in Indian Cove Campground, and loved the experience. Every campsite is adjacent to Joshua Tree’s famous boulders, and the entire campground is located in a beautiful rock canyon. We stayed in site 90 which is located at the very end of the campground, and considered it as ideal as it gets for a car camping experience. We had no immediate neighbors, and had wilderness surrounding us. We had room for two tents—one quite large—which is not the case with every site.

Tip: If you have a large tent or want to set up two tents, call the ranger station and ask about the particular site you reserved. Pack accordingly! For family groups wanting two adjacent sites, we recommend 63-64 or 99-100. And if you really want some isolation from other campers, consider reserving two sites even for a small group. They’re only $15/night!

When to go:

Due to its higher elevation, Joshua Tree is bearable further into the warm weather months than other desert parks (such as Death Valley), but you’ll still want to visit between March and May for the best weather. At the time of our March visit, temperatures reached the 80s in the day, and the 40s at night.

Tip: for more information about Joshua Tree, check out this guide from Live Once Live Wild.

Directions:

Joshua Tree National Park lies 140 miles east of Los Angeles, 175 miles northeast of San Diego, and 215 miles southwest of Las Vegas. You can approach it from Interstate 10 and Hwy 62 (Twentynine Palms Highway).

The way to see Grand Teton National Park with kids: OARS Jackson Lake 2-Day Trip

June 28, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

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 friends, the service and food is phenomenal, and the overall experience ensures a stress-free, family-bonding time for everyone. Check it out:

OARS’ 2-day Jackson Lake kayak trip departs and returns to and from Signal Mountain boat dock on Jackson Lake, in the heart of Grand Teton National Park (you’ll need to pay the $20 park fee to get there).

Day 1:

Day 1 takes families across open water to lunch at Marie Island, then approximately five more miles across to Grassy Island, in the shadow of Mount Moran. OARS is the only concessionaire with a permit to camp on Jackson Lake, ensuring we were all alone, within a hairsbreath of the Teton range. We arrived and set up camp around 4:30 pm, leaving plenty of time to splash in the water, read a book, or play a card game before appetizers. Yes, appetizers.

Dinner consisted of hearty burritos with fresh, homemade salsa (the veggies and herbs chopped up in front of us). For dessert…birthday brownie: one of the two six-year-olds on our trip was celebrating his big day. We camped under the stars (in OARS’ supplied tents), and a campfire with our fellow kayakers.

Day 2:

On Day 2, it’s all about exploring the Tetons from the vantage point of the water and trails. We broke camp after a leisurely breakfast of French toast and bacon, and hit the water around 10 am. We paddled to Bearpaw Bay, where we caught the trail to Bearpaw Lake and Leigh Lake. This two-mile hike doesn’t include much elevation gain, which meant even the youngest in our group could navigate it, while the rest of us still found it to be a decent length.

After a swim in Leigh with a picnic lunch, we paddled on to Spalding camp, on the mainland overlooking the Tetons. Once again, our campsite was our own, thanks to OARS’ exclusivity. We BBQed burgers for dinner (and when I say ‘we’, I mean our amazing OARS crew) and settled in for riddles and games of Uno around the campfire.

Day 3:

We broke camp on Day 3 around 9 am, and paddled at a leisurely pace back to the boat dock, none of us anxious to arrive! I asked my kids: how does the kayak trip compare with an OARS whitewater rafting trip? Calvin (age 13) said the two simply couldn’t be compared, but loved both. Before our kayak adventure, he feared the trip would be too tame, with perhaps too much downtime. We found this to be untrue. While a whitewater trip packs more adrenaline-inducing excitement, the kayak trip requires more muscle and includes just as much sightseeing. On both trips, we had stellar guides (shout out to Nate, Marcus, and Max this time around!).

Things to know before you go:

On any OARS trip, it’s very important to have the right clothing and gear. The weather is all over the map in the Tetons, so bring layers. If you follow the packing list, you’ll be fine. We were especially glad to have long underwear for night, and light gloves and hats for brisk mornings. OARS supplied us with splash jackets (like rain jackets) for use in the kayaks, and tents. When you book a trip, you have the option of bringing your own sleep kit, or renting one of theirs. Our recommendation: bring your own sleeping bag if you have one rated to 20 degrees, but opt to rent their sleeping pads. They’re thick and puffy, and you’ll be glad you did!

On our previous OARS trip, beer, wine, and soda were included. On this trip, soda was available, but beer and wine was BYO. If you hand over your wine and beer to the crew, they’ll keep it chilled for you! We all shared during the trip, which was a nice touch.

Bring a few small games or other entertainment for camp time. We like to bring a deck of cards and books or Kindles. Leave iPods or gaming devices at home or in the car. We had cell service for most of the trip, but without anywhere to charge phones, it was easier to leave those in the car as well.

In short, OARS is able to access a part of Jackson Lake and Grand Teton you otherwise wouldn’t be able to see, and show it to you in a way that allows for family togetherness, relaxation, and carefree fun. Pair it with 2-3 additional nights in the park or adjacent Yellowstone National Park, and know you’ll be in good hands!

As I disclose whenever applicable, we experienced this OARS trip as guests of the company, for the purpose of review. All opinions are our own.

Four days in the Canadian Rockies: Jasper and Banff National Park road trip

May 10, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

It’s very hard to plan a trip to the Canadian Rockies. Why? No matter how ambitious your itinerary, there’s always one more place to visit just a few kilometers down the road. But if you do have to scale your trip to under one week, here’s how to spend four days in and around Lake Louise and the Icefields Parkway, during a Jasper and Banff National Park road trip.

Start in Jasper:

The small town of Jasper is a gateway to outdoor adventure in every season. From late spring through early fall, hiking and lake visits reign, and in winter snowshoeing, skiing, and ice climbing can be found throughout the area. We visited in October and loved the beautiful scenery to low crowd ratio.

Maligne Canyon:
Head just a few minutes outside of Jasper on Highway 16 to Maligne Canyon. In winter, this is where you’ll see ice climbers navigating the frozen waterfalls, but in all other seasons, the flowing water of the Maligne River bubbles and falls over rocks and through gorges before disappearing underground (just to emerge again in blue pools). The trail loops with several options for return, allowing families to choose how long they hike. We hiked for approximately one hour and made it to five of six bridges that traverse the river.

The water is fast-flowing, but railings are in place to keep kids from getting too close. The incline can be steep and slippery at times, but the scenery is absolutely worth the effort.

Town of Jasper:
You don’t have to leave town to see wildlife and enjoy trails. Take the Discovery Trail through town, which includes interpretive signs throughout to teach about the history of the area. Look for elk strolling town in the early evenings and mornings; they often stop traffic! And when you’re back from your hike, stop for ice cream or shop for souvenirs or hiking gear in the easily-navigated 2-3 block downtown.

Where to stay:

The Tonquin Inn is located just a few blocks from downtown and has everything parents with kids need: a large indoor pool and hot tub, additional outdoor hot tubs, a comprehensive complimentary breakfast buffet, and comfortable rooms with scenic views.

Make the most of driving the Icefields Parkway:

The Icefields Parkways has been rated as one of the most scenic drives in the world, but that doesn’t mean you don’t need a pit stop for two. Break up the four-hour drive from Jasper to Banff with a stop midway along the Icefields Parkway. Located at the border between the two national parks, the Columbia Icefields Centre is hard to miss. Here’s what to expect:

The Columbia Icefields Centre is where you can stop for a meal and clean bathrooms, plus a great view of the Athabasca Glacier. Kids (and parents) will immediately notice the ‘Ice Explorers’ navigating the glacier surface…and want to ride in one. This attraction at the Centre is Brewster’s Glacier Adventure, and tickets can be bought in the lower level. The tour takes you on a short bus shuttle to the edge of the glacier, where you transfer to specially-designed Ice Explorers (souped up ATV-bus hybrids, for lack of a better description). The Ice Explorers take you on a short but exciting drive out onto the ice, where they stop and let you get out and walk around in a very contained circle. Because the space where visitors can stand on the ice is so small (and feels much like a parking lot with multiple Ice Explorers parked), most kids will find the ride out the most exciting part. Guides do a very good job of educating you on the glacier in an entertaining way, but the actual ice walk can be a let-down.

Closer stops to Jasper include either the Athabasca or Sunwapta falls. Both scenic falls are located roadside, necessitating only a short walk to the view points. At Sunwapta, a restaurant and other roadside facilities make for welcome additions. Closer to Banff, Bow Lake is an easy stop, and can include swimming in summer and short hiking options.

Up next, continuing your road trip to Banff National Park! Click on the button below to continue.

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Zion National Park in winter

February 25, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

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 accessible, and often warmer than you’d think.

As we arrived from a weekend of skiing at Brian Head and Eagle Point (yes, you can ski and hike on the same road trip!), we rolled our windows down as we approached the park from Highway 9. It was a balmy 50 degrees when we entered the artsy, scenic town of Springdale, and inside the park, just enough snow dotted the ground and clung to the red rock to be picturesque but not problematic.

What to do in Zion National Park in winter:

The short answer: pretty much everything you’d do in summer, but without the crowds. We hiked several trails that are usually highly impacted during the warm weather months, encountering only a handful of other people. During the winter, the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive can be done by car; in summer, you must take the shuttle. Most of the hikes that start from points along the drive are open during the winter months, too, which makes Zion National Park your personal playground in December, January, and February.

Hike The Narrows in winter:

Hiking The Narrows was the highlight of our Zion winter trip. While we loved The Narrows in summer, going in winter is an entirely different experience. Start at Zion Outfitter, located at the entrance of the park by the visitor center. These guys can set you up with dry suits, special river shoes, and booties, which you’ll definitely want for the Narrows in winter. For $45/person, you get dry bibs (that go chest high), Adidas HydroLace canyoneering boots, neoprene socks, and a wooden hiking stick. For a little less, you can opt for waist high pants.

Note: you can rent the boots and socks in summer too, which I now realize would work better than the Keens we wore last time!

You can arrange for a guide to go with you in The Narrows, but families can also do it solo, provided you check the weather and conditions first at the visitor center. The Narrows are known for flash floods, which can happen any time of the year. To get to the river, go up Zion Canyon Scenic Drive to the last stop, Temple of Sinawava. You’ll take a paved trail for one mile, which ends at a good entrance to the Virgin River. During our visit, the trail was icy, so go slowly if needed, and be aware of icicles and potential falling ice above you.

Once in the river, make your way at will, sticking to the shallow spots as desired. The entire way up The Narrows to where it splits with Orderville Canyon takes a couple hours (it’s about 3.5 miles), but families can stop anytime; it’s an out-and-back. Take care to keep your upper body dry; water WILL pour into your dry suit from the top of the bib if you go too deep. Otherwise, the dry suit set up kept us very dry and comfortable.

Note: the canyoneering shoes WILL let in water; this is normal, and the reason for the wetsuit-like sock.

The Narrows in winter are truly magical: the snow and ice contrast with the red rock and water with such beauty, you’ll want your camera out at all times. And unlike in summer, when you’re wading through the river with crowds of people, you may have the river to yourself. I found myself completely alone more than once in the canyon.

Additional hikes:

The easy hikes along the scenic drive, including the Grotto Trail and Weeping Rock Trail are usually open in winter, but be aware that they may be icy. Bring extra traction for your hiking boots, like YakTraks, and you should be ok. While we were at Zion, we also did the Canyon Overlook Trail, which is located just past the tunnel within the park (take a right at the ‘Y’). Canyon Overlook offers big views for little effort; the whole hike is less than 1.5 miles, and though fairly strenuous, includes features that will be fun for kids, like stair climbs, overhangs, and wooden planks. Just take care with young kids as there are drop-offs along the trail, though the end overlook does feature a railing.

While we were at Canyon Overlook, a park ranger also recommended Sand Bench trail to us in winter. The Sand Bench Loop starts at the Court of the Patriarchs shuttle stop and is roughly 3.5 miles (round trip). From the shuttle stop, take the hikers’ bridge across the Virgin River. The trail crosses a stream, then continues past a landslide area from the ’90s. You gain elevation of about 500 feet, much lower than any hikes to the canyon rims. Plan to encounter sand, but as a winter bonus, it may be frozen or at least hardened.

Where to stay at Zion National Park in winter:

We have stayed at Cliffrose Lodge in both summer and winter, and love this property. See why it’s great for families here. The Cliffrose has been family-owned for many years, and the owners are committed to the area, putting money back into their property, and elevating the tourism experience in Springdale and Zion National Park. The lodge is just outside the park boundary next to the visitor center, and the view out of every window is fantastic. In summer, the gardens and access to the river turn the Cliffrose into an extension of the park for outdoor play, and in winter, the open, elegant lobby beckons. A full restaurant is slated to open in 2017, as well.

In winter, three outdoor hot tubs are at your disposal (in summer, there’s also a spacious pool), and a breakfast-in-bed (in room) menu is available for $10/person. Cliffrose suites are perfect for larger families, as they have two bedrooms separated by a full kitchen and dining area, with balcony or patio.

Where to eat in Springdale:

Springdale, the tiny town at the entrance of the park, is unlike any other ‘national park town’ I’ve experienced. It’s a destination in its own right, with art galleries, eateries, and specialty shops hugging Highway 9 against the backdrop of jaw-dropping canyons. From the Cliffrose, you’re only a few blocks from just about everything. The following restaurants are our favorites, with a few we haven’t tried added in that have been recommended by locals:

9 East: this upscale Italian and Mediterranean bistro has been opened by a recent executive chef from Las Vegas
The Spotted Dog: American bistro fare
Bit ‘n Spur: upscale Southwestern/Mexican hybrid cuisine
Oscars
Kings Landing

How to extend your Zion National Park trip in winter:

I recommend staying in Springdale at least three days in winter to enjoy both the town and the park, then extending your stay in Southern Utah to include Bryce Canyon National Park or a Southern Utah ski resort. Brian Head resort is only about an hour away, where families can snowmobile, ski, and snowboard to round out an adventurous vacation.

Pin it for later:

I was a guest of the Cliffrose and Zion Outfitter for the purpose of review. All opinions remain my own.

Bryce Canyon National Park in winter

February 24, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

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 open year round. With an elevation of around 7000 feet, families may or may not encounter snow; we did, on our trip, but I was told it varies by season. If there is snow, it’s possible to cross country ski or snowshoe in and around the park, and of course if you encounter dry ground, hiking is an option. Just keep an open mind and be flexible.

Start at Ruby’s:

On the north end of the park, just outside the boundary, lies Ruby’s Inn, which is actually an entire complex consisting of a activities center, wild west dinner show venue, restaurants, and hotel rooms. Reuben (Ruby) and Minnie Syrett arrived in the area in 1916 and founded Ruby’s in 1923. It’s owned by the family to this day.

If you need a place to stay overnight, Ruby’s has clean, basic hotel rooms on the edge of the park, but it’s a great stop if you’re in Bryce Canyon just for the day, too. In winter, Ruby’s offers a winter sports center with an ice skating rink, a nordic track with six miles of trails (which connects to more in the national park) and cross-country ski and skate rentals.

We rented skis and took to the nordic track, which curves around the Ruby’s complex to the edge of the canyon. After just a 15 minute ski, you are rewarded with amazing views of Bryce. I suggest taking the two mile loop with kids; cross-country skiing is not hard to learn and a fun way to see Bryce in the snow.

The restaurant at Ruby’s is adjacent, and has a family-friendly buffet at both breakfast and lunch, as well as a menu to order off of. At very low crowd time periods, such as when we visited, they may not offer the buffet, but will still have a full sale and soup bar. Ruby’s is not fine dining, by any means, but a solid choice for feeding the family. Next to the restaurant is an extensive store, where you can pick up souvenirs but also groceries, winter clothing, and anything else you may have forgotten.

See Bryce Canyon with an expert with Bryce Valley Tours:

You’ll have Bryce Canyon to yourself in the winter, but you may not know where to go or what you’re seeing. We had the opportunity to see the park with John of Bryce Valley Tours, who accompanied us on our ski trek and explained the geological history of the canyon as we skied. John also offers half-day and full-day tours, which can be tailored to your family’s interests. Half-day tours are $75/pp, which I think is a good value for the opportunity to have an expert guide you who knows which parts of accessible in snow, which are closed in winter, and the like.

Stop at the visitor’s center:

The Bryce Canyon visitor’s center is located directly past the entrance, and is small but worth the stop. The exhibit area explains the geological history of the canyon’s rock formations, including the hoodoos you’ll see everywhere. Get the kids their Junior Ranger booklets, and get stamps in your national park passports.

Drive to the most scenic lookouts in the park:

Bryce Canyon is a park that’s big on views. The major lookouts are all open in the winter, even in snow. Drive in and check out Inspiration Point—trust me, it’s aptly named—and Swamp Canyon. The latter is much more stunning than the name suggests. At each of these lookouts, short hiking trails are available. When we visited, the snow was several feet deep, but they were still open, albeit difficult to navigate. If you decide to walk a bit, be careful of your footing, as you ARE on the edge of a canyon. Snowshoes would help.

Tips for visiting Bryce Canyon National Park in winter:

Call the park ahead of your trip to stay up-to-date on any road closures or closed exhibits; this is the off-season.
Be prepared for any type of weather; you could get snow or sun. Make sure everyone in your group has winter boots, waterproof pants, a hat, gloves, and jacket. You don’t want to get caught off-guard and have to buy all this at Ruby’s!
If there IS snow, try snowshoeing to get around on the trails.
Wear sunscreen; the high elevation causes people to burn easily if the sun is out.
Hydrate and go slowly at elevation until you’ve acclimated. Check out our tips for adjusting to high elevations.

Yosemite National Park travel tips: best tours, hikes, and advice

February 20, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

During a time when many vacations are not possible, outdoor activities in road trip-accessible locations offer the ability to safely social distance. Hotels.com asked me to share my favorite activities and tips for exploring the Yosemite area, so start here as you plan a safe and responsible vacation.

Yosemite National Park is one of the crown jewels of the national park system, and for good reason. Its stunning geological features, wildlife, and rich history make it ideal for an outdoors family vacation. This park has so much to offer, the following Yosemite National Park travel tips and touring advice are meant to supplement further research. Start with the official Yosemite National Park site to plan your trip, make sure activities and sites are open, and plan your lodging options! For touring advice and tips primarily for Yosemite’s Valley Floor region, read on.

Note: if you’re considering the Majestic Mountain Loop of three parks in one trip, start by viewing our Guide to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks.

When to go:

Yosemite is open and active year round! While the vast majority of visitors arrive in the summer (of course), more is open during the off-season than many families realize. During fall and spring, some hikes and roads may be closed, but the majority are still at your disposal. Ditto for visitors centers and museums (just check seasonal hours). Winter is a wonderful time to stay on the valley floor without the crowds; families can easily rent snowshoes or Nordic skis to explore the area. If you must go in summer, don’t worry: the park is still very accessible with crowds. Plan to base your car in one location (ideally your lodging within the park) and take the free inter-park shuttle everywhere you need to go. We tried this out during a busy week in July (the peak of the busy season) and never waited more than five minutes for a shuttle bus. Busses run between campgrounds, lodges, visitors centers and hiking trailheads.

What to do on the valley floor:

Obviously, there’s too much to do in Yosemite to put into one post! The Tuolumne Meadows and Wawona regions are well-worth visits; however, if your family is new to the park, and you have at least three days, devote one morning to a Valley Floor Tour. This tour–conducted on motor coach in the off-season and open-air tram in the summer–offers a wonderful overview of the valley. If possible, ask for tour guide Bill: his knowledge is unparalleled, and he’s entertaining throughout! I loved that Bill described his tour as a ‘portal’ tour: he considered every major subject he addressed as merely a ‘portal’ to learning more (then gave the resources needed for those who wanted to dig deeper). Our Valley Floor Tour covered Yosemite Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, Tunnel View, Swinging Bridge, and Sentinel Rock, Cathedral rocks, and El Capitan. The bus stopped frequently, with plenty of photo ops. Because tours don’t stop for hiking, swimming, and the like, this is a good opportunity to note the areas you’d like to come back to on your own.

Lodging:

Where to stay in Yosemite National Park is as varied as individual family itineraries! For easiest access to the shuttle buses and to be within walking distance to the most sights, I’d opt for Yosemite Lodge or Camp Curry (be sure to reserve both well ahead of time). For families who may wish to divide their attention between Valley Floor activities and backcountry, many lodging options are located just outside the park.

Hiking:

Yosemite Falls: One of the easiest hikes to access from the valley floor, Yosemite Falls offers a very short hike to the lower falls, or a much more strenuous hike (3.8 miles one way) to Upper Yosemite Falls. Plan to spend the better part of the day if you tackle the latter! End your hike with a treat at the Food Court of Yosemite Lodge at the Falls.

Mist Trail: If you only do one hike in Yosemite, this should be it. But bear in mind that it will get very crowded in summer. Go early in the morning, or just before evening to beat the crowds (and heat). Enjoy the mist off Nevada and Vernal Falls as you make the short but very steep climb. If you’re up for more, this is the access point to hiking all the way to Half Dome to climb the backside using the cable system.

Note: permits are required for the Half Dome climb. You don’t need to be a rock climber, but you do have to be comfortable with heights and tall enough to hold the cables. If you’re not up for it, but do want a long hike, continue past the falls to Little Yosemite Camp, where you can watch the cable climbers.

Glacier Point to Valley Floor: This is another hike for the hearty! Use the free shuttle system so you only have to go one-way! Because you are directly across from Yosemite falls, you get a great perspective since you start above the falls, and see it at every height as you descend to the valley floor. If the kids are up for it, bribe them with a promise of ice cream at Yosemite Village and keep trekking across the valley floor.

Our review of family backcountry hiking and backpacking in Yosemite.

Museums, programs, and visitors centers:

A trip to the Yosemite Village Visitor Center and museum is absolutely worth your time. Kids (and adults) learn about geography and wildlife in the center, then can tour an outdoor Miwok village at the attached museum. We also loved the baskets on display, and during the summer months, Native American artisans are on-hand to show you their techniques. The village center also has stores, restaurants, and the like.

For winter activities and snow play, start at Yosemite lodging, such as Yosemite Lodge or Camp Curry. Both locations will have sleds to purchase and snowshoes to rent. Camp Curry has an ice-skating rink (tickets can be bought at either lodge). Guided nordic skiing tours to Glacier Point depart regularly in winter. In fall, be sure to ask about the Swinging Bridge Ladybuy Hatch. This amazing event takes place annually on the Swinging Bridge in the valley, when hundreds of thousands of ladybugs hatch. An amazing sight, and one guests can only see in autumn.

Park programs and nature walks are available year-round at Yosemite! Definitely sign up for one of the park’s watercolor classes, Junior Ranger programs, or, my current favorite: the Night Prowl. Led by a naturalist, the Night Prowl takes visitors on wooded trails by moonlight, which chances to see or hear nocturnal animals. Even if you don’t see animals, guides do a great job of relaying interesting information and conducting fun group exercises to help you adjust to the dark and understand your surroundings. This program is ideal for school-aged kids, and is a deal at only $5.50 per person.

Tip: Did you know park rangers are not the only naturalists leading guided tours and programs in Yosemite National Park? The park’s chief concessionaire also employs naturalists to lead excursions, often filling the gap left by budget cuts. These services are available to book from park lodging!

Day hikes in Joshua Tree National Park: Hiking off-trail

November 13, 2020 By Amy Hagstrom

During a time when many vacations are not possible, outdoor activities in road trip-accessible locations offer the ability to safely social distance. Hotels.com asked me to share my favorite activities and tips for exploring the outdoors near Joshua Tree, so start here as you plan a safe and responsible vacation.

I love a guiding company that doesn’t ‘dumb down’ experiences for guests. Joshua Tree Excursions definitely doesn’t take the easy route, literally or figuratively. If you’re looking for day hikes in Joshua Tree National Park, guide and owner Kelly Crawford is who to get to know. He challenged us during a five-hour hike through Joshua Tree National Park, during which we went off-trail to trek, scramble, and climb the park’s famous granite boulders. He allowed us to rise to the occasion during moments of challenge in the terrain, and gave us confidence that we could all do it. And we did.

Hiking off-trail in Joshua Tree National Park

The Joshua Tree Excursion experience starts when you book it, as Kelly prides himself in offering a fully customizable day or weekend. If you want a mellow hike through the park with a knowledgable guide, they can certainly do that, but they can also offer hikes that involve bouldering, climbing, or backpacking. Joshua Tree Excursions will even set up your entire camp for you (at a site in the park or in the backcountry) and can even provide all meals.

Most families will simply want a day of hiking off-trail, as day hikes in Joshua Tree National Park are short enough to be do-able. It’s is an excellent place for off-trail adventuring. Families experienced in backcountry hiking can certainly hike off-trail in Joshua Tree on their own, with the right navigational tools (and knowledge in using them). However, even though we’re familiar with all this, we’re not familiar with the desert landscape of Joshua Tree, so hiring Joshua Tree Excursions is a good solution.

Our trip off-trail started with our group of adults loading up in Kelly’s 4wd vehicle and entering the park. Anyone without day packs was provided one to use, along with plenty of water. Given the length of the hiking experience (ours was 5 hours) I do think it would be helpful to also have a few healthy snacks. We parked at the Barker Dam trailhead, and Kelly took some time to go over local geology, flora, and fauna.

Joshua Tree Excursions’ motto is ‘journeys, not destinations’, and we realized this concept was more than just a slogan right away, when we left the well-worn trail almost immediately. Kelly explained that we’d be hiking approximately five miles off-trail, in a large loop with time for shorter side excursions and exploration.

We hiked through sandy washes, weaved past beds of cacti (pausing to learn each variety’s name), and climbed over rocks and boulders. It was exactly the type of hiking my kids love, so I’ll definitely be heading back to Joshua Tree with them again. Usually, I am perfectly content to hike on the trail, but I must say, Kelly’s version was much more fun and exciting. I felt like a kid again as I jumped, scrambled, and explored.

We stopped often for mini-lessons on Joshua Tree (and to drink water), and to take photos. While we didn’t have a precise destination, we did hit upon some landmarks that were amazing to see, such as Garrett Arch, the ‘cube’ (a huge square-shaped rock), and the Wall Street Mine (abandoned historic stamp mill). At a few junctions, such as at Garrett Arch, there was an option to climb higher up (or wait below).

The level of difficulty was what I’d call intermediate, but others may call advanced. This is where the customized trip comes into play. When planning a trip with Joshua Tree Excursions, it’s important to explain not only what you hope to do, but your level of fitness and experience in the outdoors. Either way, I guarantee you can do more than you think you can!

We ended just before sunset and drove back to the Joshua Tree Excursions office below the park.

Pricing: Customized hiking trips usually start at $124 per person. Yes, this is a serious investment during your trip, but I believe it to be a worthwhile one. Kelly can provide families with an experience beyond what almost all can do themselves.

Lodging options nearby:

Lodging near Joshua Tree ranges from family-friendly roadside hotels to unique rentals to B&Bs. We have sampled quite a few options, all of which match the free-spirited nature of Joshua Tree, California itself. Within the park proper, car camping is beautiful as well, especially during the cooler months. In the heat of summer, you’ll probably want to find area lodging.

Don’t forget:

sunscreen
hats for everyone
sunglasses
water (more will be provided)
backpack (provided if you don’t have one)
long pants for hiking in (cacti hurt legs!)
snack such as a granola bar
a tip for your guide
trekking poles are a good idea if you’re not scrambling (but hiking)

Bonus stop: After your day with Kelly, be sure to go back up to the park entrance at dark for a Sky’s the Limit presentation of the night sky. Offered on Saturday nights and some additional (see list of dates), this non-profit observatory offers the most accurate orrery in the world (a orrery is a replica of the solar system laid out on the ground, with the sun in the middle and the planets in their paths around it, set to real time). This, and the nature path around it, can be enjoyed at any time during the day, but at night when open, the observatory also has volunteers on-hand to give a star presentation, complete with high-powered telescopes for viewing planets and stars.

As I disclose whenever applicable, we are partnering with Hotels.com to bring you this post on Joshua Tree.