Parks or Natural Areas - 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.

Family vacation destination: San Diego

May 1, 2022 By Amy Hagstrom

If you’re looking for a family vacation destination, why not consider San Diego? The southern California city is known for having great weather and beaches, along with a laid-back atmosphere.

There are a few downsides—for example, San Diego is one of the most congested cities in the country as far as traffic and roadways. San Diego is also a pretty expensive destination, which is true for most of California.

If you can avoid roadways during rush hour and set a budget, San Diego is a great travel destination when you have kids.

The following are a few things to know about San Diego, especially when it comes to travel.

The Basics

San Diego is a beautiful city, with plenty of hotels and other options geared toward tourists. There’s a lot of history in addition to the things you might first associate with the city, like the beaches.

The weather is one of the best parts of visiting. San Diego has one of the best climates in the country. It’s sunny throughout the year, and in the winter, you can expect temperatures in the upper 70s, while in the summer, the highs are usually mild and in the upper 70s.

Much of the culture and activities in San Diego revolve around the water. For example, San Diego is home to the Star of India, which is the oldest sailing ship still active. You can take the San Diego SEALS tour on a hydra-terra vehicle that will take you from the street to the water.

There are around 70 miles of shoreline in the city, and most are beautiful beaches.

The History

We don’t often think about San Diego as being rich in history, but in reality, it is. San Diego has centuries of history you can enjoy. If you visit the San Diego History Center in Balboa Park, you can learn a little more. This is a 1,200-acre cultural park in an urban area. There are 2.5 million images in the exhibit and 45 million pieces highlighting the history of San Diego.

Kid-Friendly Attractions

There are so many kid-friendly attractions in San Diego that it would be hard to name them all here, but some options include:

Old Town, California, is the birthplace of modern California. Old Town is where the original Spanish settlers arrived in 1769, and they built the first of the missions in the state. There are 15 historic buildings in Old Town, and you can take a narrated trolley tour.
Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve has eight hiking trails to choose from, including Beach Trail, with cliff views of the Pacific. There’s also an easier option, which is the Guy Fleming Trail, ideal if you have young children.
La Jolla cove has designer shopping and high-end dining, but you can also enjoy the outdoors, and there’s often live music on Scripps Parkway. There are sea cliffs to walk along, and you can see the California Harbor Seals on the beach at Children’s Pool. Children’s Pool is a small cove protected by a breaker.
The Birch Aquarium at Scripps is ideal for learning more about sea life and conservation efforts, and you can get up close with sea creatures, including petting some of the sea stars.
You can’t miss the San Diego Zoo on a trip to the city. It’s one of the world’s most famous zoos, and you can take a double-decker bus tour to get a lay of the land. You can learn more about conservation efforts happening at the zoos, and if your budget allows, you can sign up for a private tour.
The Fleet Science Center is in Balboa Park, featuring exhibits on various topics, and is also home to a massive IMAX theater.
Legoland California is in San Diego, and so is Sea World.
Don’t miss the beach. We’ve talked about it a few times, but the beaches are perfect for families and free.

When you’re planning a family-friendly trip to San Diego, make sure you think about the season. If you go during the low season, you’re going to get better rates and smaller crowds. In San Diego, October is usually the off-season.

There’s also so much to do that it can be a good idea to plan ahead before your trip, to make sure you get to everything you want to do. If you buy tickets to attractions in advance, you’ll be able to skip the lines and save some money.

San Juan Island with kids: a two-day itinerary

March 27, 2022 By Amy Hagstrom

We love the San Juan Islands, situated north of Seattle at the very last reaches of Washington State. The San Juans are ideal to visit in summer and fall, but can make for a great (and affordable) winter or spring retreat as well. If you haven’t visited these islands and don’t know where to start, we recommend a two-day itinerary on San Juan Island with kids.

Base yourself in picturesque Friday Harbor, with lodging and dining just steps from the ferry landing. From here, you’ll be set for a day of exploration of this quaint town, followed by a wider tour of the island on your second day. Ready?

Day 1: Friday Harbor sights and history

From the outside, Friday Harbor looks like the perfect tourist town: pretty and filled with shops and dining picks. It is all that, but it’s also so much more. This town harbors (pun intended) a lot of history. After arriving on the ferry, grab a bite to eat, then walk into the heart of town. By all means, stop to poke around the art galleries and shops, but make your way up the hill as you go.

Whale Museum: You’ll encounter the Whale Museum on 1st Street (right up from Spring Street). This small yet very well-done museum is ideal for all ages. Its exhibits are playful and accessible for young kids, and each room offers deeper exploration for older kids. The emphasis of the Whale Museum is not on whale hunting, but rather on whale conservation. There’s a strong eco-friendly message. Best of all, the Whale Museum is open year-round, and affordable for families at only $3-$5 admission.

San Juan Historical Museum: This museum and historical complex is just a bit further up Spring Street, on the 1894 James King farmstead. The museum itself is open seasonally (summer hours), but the grounds remain open for families to visit. Each outdoor exhibit is well-marked, and include a historical shipwreck, an 1891 log cabin converted to a replica schoolhouse, and a county jail. The Museum of History and Industry within the San Juan Historical Museum has two wings currently open, and work is progressing on the Farming and Fishing sections.

Whale watching: We went with Spirit of Orca, and saw whales from two of the three pods in this region, J, K & L—the Southern Residents—and some transients that can be seen year round, as well as Steller sea lions, harbor seals, bald eagles, and more. Captain Ken was fantastic! Another option is to try to see orcas from the shore, or while on kayak tours. The orca whale population in the San Juan Islands is suffering, and it can be harder and harder to spot orcas on tours. It’s important to be respectful of the best standards of practice while whale watching in this area, which includes keeping all boats a required distance away. Always go with an operator following these practices.

By this time, the kids may be tired of walking and you all may be ready for some downtime. Head back to the pier where kids can check out the totem poles recently commissioned to display overlooking the bay, and watch the many boats coming and going. Families can book a whale watching tour, or take a ride in a historic ship.

For dinner, stay down by the water, and grab a bite at any one of the seafood restaurants. You really can’t go wrong!

Where to stay: Get our top picks!

Day 2: Roche Harbor and the Pig War

Any kid would be interested in learning about something called the Pig War, right? Start your day at Roche Harbor, a short drive from Friday Harbor. Here, families can check out the historic site where a lime and cement company once reigned, causing the population of this sleepy area to boom. On the way, stop at the sculpture garden for a nice walk.

Kayaking Roche Harbor: See the harbor and adjacent islands up close on a kayak tour with San Juan Outfitters. This company operates right off the pier (as well as at Friday Harbor) and offers 3-hour tours perfect for family outings. Our guide Alex kept us all entertained with interesting stories of kayaking adventure, and was able to point out marine life and nautical knowledge along the way. We made our way to giant bull kelp beds, where Alex showcased his talents as a bull kelp musician. (You had to be there!)

After kayaking, you’ll be hungry, so stop at the Lime Kiln Cafe for sandwiches. The lines can get long, which is how you know it’s worth it!

Exploring English Camp: After lunch, it’s time to learn about this Pig War business. Every San Juan Island school child knows the story: in short, the English and Americans co-occupied the island in the first half of the 19th century. In 1859, an English citizen killed an American’s pig, prompting a stand-off regarding who had control over the island. It was settled peacefully, which means this story has a happy ending. Families can visit both English Camp and American Camp (located at separate ends of the island). Our pick is English Camp, which is a national historic site. Hiking trails criss-cross the park, and families can make their way from the bluffs where the English officers built their homes to the bay, where a garrison still stands. Kids can see what herbs might have been grown in the gardens, and earn Junior Ranger badges (weekends only in the off-season).

Where to eat:

With the kids, you can’t go wrong along Front Street by the ferry terminal in Friday Harbor, because there’s always something to see. We loved our dining experience at Downriggers, which offers a very nice selection of cocktails, beer and wine and has deckside seating overlooking the ferry.

For a nice dinner out (perhaps without the kids, though they’re welcome), Duck Soup offers a rustic island ambiance with outstanding cocktails and entrees using foraged edibles and the freshest seafood. Be sure to try a white wine from San Juan Vineyards during your stay on the island, as well!

How to get here:

Getting to San Juan Island is half the fun! Families will most likely want to have their car, so a ferry ride on Washington State Ferries from Anacortes, Washington is the way to go. Should you not need a car, it’s possible to take the Victoria Clipper from Seattle or the Puget Sound Express from Port Townsend on the Olympic Peninsula, during the summer months.

Have you been to San Juan Island? What do you recommend?

A rustic cabin stay at Silver Falls State Park, Oregon

September 7, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

A state park stay can be a great way to safely travel with the family during COVID-19. For up-to-date information on park closures and updates in Oregon, check here.

Located approximately 25 miles east of Salem, Oregon off Highway 22, Silver Falls State Park is the largest in Oregon. With each site tucked away under the canopy of the temperate rain forest, however, you’d never know it. Silver Falls is easy to get to off I-5, but feels a million miles away from the adjacent farmland and towns.

Silver Falls offers traditional tent and RV camping loops, as well as rustic cabins (similar in amenities to Oregon State Parks’ rustic yurts). Group lodging is available in their conference facilities. We stayed in rustic cabin #10, and highly recommend it for optimal seclusion.

The rustic cabins:

Each cabin in the cabin loop (separated from the tent/RV loop by a covered pedestrian bridge) has plenty of space, but #8, 9, and 10 especially are set apart from the others. In fact, you are required to park about 20-50 yards away (depending upon cabin) and cart your supplies in by provided wheelbarrow (which the kids thought was half the fun).

Each cabin has two basic rooms: a front room with a table and four chairs and a futon that converts to a double bed, and a back room with a built-in bunk-bed and additional double bed. The cabins have electricity and heaters, but no bathrooms or running water. Bathrooms with hot showers are a short walk away (and exclusive for the cabin loop) and running water is within yards of each cabin at outdoor faucets. Cabins also have porches of varying size (the ones right on the loop have larger ones, whereas #8-10 have smaller ones) and fire pits and picnic tables.

No cooking is allowed in the cabins, but BBQs can be set up outside, and we simply used our camping cookstove at the picnic table. You’ll want a cooler with ice for perishables, as there is no mini-fridge. Right behind Cabin #10 is a short woodland trail leading directly to the banks of Silver Creek, which makes for lots of fun exploring for kids while parents are relaxing (or more likely, unpacking).

Tip: Stay on the trails, because poison oak is abundant! If you have young children, be aware that though hidden behind trees and vegetation, the road leading to South Falls is quite close to the cabins. Adventurous children could wander there.

Things to do in the state park:

In addition to area road biking and fishing, Silver Falls is a hiking mecca. You’ll want to reserve at least a half day, if not a whole day to exploring the Trail of 10 Falls, the trailhead of which is located past the day lodge in the day use parking area. This is a challenging loop of, you guessed it, 10 waterfalls, and these aren’t just minor rapids, either. Four of the ten are large enough that the trail arcs behind them, for hikers to get a behind-the-scenes view, and all are spectacular.

The entire loop is 8.7 miles, but you don’t have to commit to that length. The first waterfall, South Falls, is within yards of the trail entrance, and on a paved walkway. After peeking behind it, hikers will find the Canyon Trail (Trail of 10 Falls) which will take you another 3/4 of a mile or so along the lush canyon floor beside Silver Creek to Lower South Falls, which is also definitely worth seeing. From there, continue on the Canyon Trail another mile to North Falls (and beyond) or look for the Maple Ridge Trail 1/3 of a mile beyond Lower South Falls for a short-cut back to the trailhead (and parking lot). The Maple Ridge Trail starts out with some tough switchbacks, but evens out on the ridge to make an easy jaunt back. (If you go this route, your entire hike is just over 2 miles, and you see two major falls.)

Near the trailhead, there’s ample picnic grounds, as well as a swimming area. The highs were only in the low 70s during our visit, so we didn’t swim, but this section of Silver Creek is deep and still, and there’s a nice grass area surrounding it.

And yes, the area has some wildlife worth watching too. There are warnings about the bears and mountain lions in the park, so with the kids, consider going nearby and preferably during the day. For a night safari, ensure professionals accompany you. On the fun side, carry your thermal binoculars along. Thermal imaging has many limitations, so the binocular may not give you the best picture, but cats barely come out in the daylight- don’t miss them.

Distance from the interstate:

25 miles from I-5

Cabin and camping rates:

Cabins are approximately $45/night in peak season. A campsite is as low at $15.

Dining options:

There are a few small towns near Silver Falls, and the lodge at South Falls offers limited cafe hours, but in general, you’ll want to pack your own food in.

Directions:

From I-5, take Highway 22 east from Salem, Oregon. Follow signs to Silver Falls State Park.

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.

Top Arizona parks to explore with your kids

July 13, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

https://cdn.pixabay.com/photo/2020/08/18/19/23/monument-valley-5499156_960_720.jpg

Top Arizona parks to explore with your kids:

Arizona’s Grand Canyon is a sight to behold for many tourists and road trip enthusiasts. If you are planning on going on a road trip with your family, make sure that you have made the necessary preparations for your kids, including a Diono car seat and snacks to keep them safe and entertained while on the road. When you reach Arizona, you can expect more places to visit aside from the Grand Canyon. Here are some Arizona parks that your kids will enjoy exploring:

Native Cultures

There are over 250,000 Native Americans that live at the 13th-century state’s borders, which plays a big role in preserving their ancient culture. The Casa Grande Ruins National Monument protects the Hohokam people’s 13th-century ruins.

Your kids will also enjoy the Montezuma Castle National Monument, which protects the 800-year old cliff dwellings. Near the Flagstaff town is the Wupatki and Walnut Canyon National Monuments. One of the country’s best Native American Museum is the Phoenix’s Heard Museum, where it features 10 galleries that showcase Native American art and artifacts. The museum offers hands-on activities like creating a bandolier bag and Yaqui-inspired paper flowers.

Relive the Old West

Arizona used to be a wild place when the Americans first settled there. Doc Holliday and Wyatt Earp were famous characters who called Tombstone their home in the 1880s, where they participated in the historical gunfight that happened at the OK Corral. Visitors today will be glad to visit the Tombstone and witness a mine tour, historic cemeteries, and buildings, and Wild West shows that showcases the original OK Corral.

The Sonoran Desert

One of the popular tourist destinations in Arizona is the Saguaro National Park. The park also provides every family visitor the opportunity to learn about the desert and its important ecosystem.

If you want to visit this park with your family, you can go during early spring or late winter, where the temperatures are milder and wildflowers are blooming. The Saguaro cacti will have its short-lived blooms in June. Your kids will also appreciate exploring the desert when you are in Phoenix. Try visiting the Pinnacle Peak or the Phoenix Mountain Preserve for nature tripping with your family.

Kid-Friendly Museums

If you want your kids to know more about the Sonoran Desert, then you should take them to the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, loathed near the Saguaro National Park. It is part zoo, part natural history museum, and part botanical garden. The museum integrates its animal enclosures into the surrounding desert landscape.

There is also a trail that you and your family can stroll along and witness a peeking coyote behind a Saguaro cactus, see a Ferruginous Hawk flying above, and watch a javelina saunter while in an area surrounded by 140 varieties of cacti and other plants from the desert.

They also have the Cat Canyon, the hummingbird aviary, and a cave that lets visitors experience what it’s like underground. Your kids will also enjoy the Musical Instrument Museum in Phoenix, and let them listen to other musical instruments from different parts of the world.

Another place for your kids to enjoy is the Arizona Science Center, also in Phoenix, which features 350 interactive exhibits. The Children’s Museum of Phoenix is also a good destination for your kids and lets them experience indoor play during the summer season.

Board a Train

Everybody knows that kids are fascinated with trains, and Arizona is filled with many railroad-themed activities for their visitors. You can take your kids to Scottsdale’s McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park and take rides at the Paradise and Pacific Railroad. Go and explore with your family the expansive display of the indoor model train.

Visit Arizona now with your children and let them learn and experience the wonderful history of their people. It would be a great experience for you and your family in exploring the different attractions that Arizona can offer.

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).

Palm Springs Aerial Tramway and Mt. San Jacinto State Park

May 29, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

If you have a few days in Palm Springs, a trip to the Aerial Tramway is well-worth your time. This ‘world’s largest rotating tram’ takes visitors from the desert floor to over 8,000 feet in elevation to Mt. San Jacinto State Park in just a few minutes. The tram ride itself is fun for everyone (even those who experience ski resort gondolas and trams often), but the real gem is at the top. Mt. San Jacinto Park offers 54 miles of hiking trails in over 14,000 acres of alpine wilderness. Everyone can enjoy the novelty of soaring from a desert environment to an alpine forest within minutes, and once there, they can spend as much time as desired exploring the mountain scenery.

Hiking trails are well-marked, the three major trails offering something for everyone: the easy 1.5 Desert View Trail can be done in under an hour, or the Round Valley Trail offers a 4.2 mile loop more suitable to families with older kids. There’s also a 12 mile loop up San Jacinto Peak for experts. Once families depart the tram at the Mountain Station, they follow a paved walkway down to Long Valley, where the wilderness awaits. Since we’d done a lot of hiking in previous days of our trip, we opted to let the kids rock scramble and play at will in the valley area. In winter, an Adventure Center in the valley offers sled and snowshoe rentals plus gear.

Tramway tips:

The temperature changes dramatically between the desert floor and the Mountain Station, so families will need to bring extra layers. A good rule of thumb: expect the temperature to drop by 20 degrees.
Buy tramway tickets online to ensure your departure time. If you buy tickets at the Valley Station, expect a slight to moderate wait. During the time of our visit on a weekend during Spring Break, we waited an hour before boarding.
Expect the process of boarding to take awhile, from the time you park and take a tram bus to the entrance of the Valley Station to the time your departure time is called to board.
Due to the time and cash investment, plan to spend the better part of the day at the Mountain Station area.

Dining:

There are ample opportunities to purchase food, both at the Valley Station (where there’s a snack area and bar) and the Mountain Station (where families find a quick service type restaurant with pizza, sandwiches, and the like) as well as a sit-down dining experience. Outside food is also allowed, and picnic tables are located at both stations. Bring water bottles and fill them at drinking fountains.

Distance from the interstate:

The tramway is located six miles from downtown Palm Springs off I-10.

Admission cost:

Adult tramway tickets are $23 and children’s (12 and under) are $16. Discounted tickets can be had after 4 pm. Hours vary by season.

Directions:

From Palm Springs, take Highway 111 to Tram Way.

Five best things to do when you visit Miami

May 5, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

By far one of the most enticing things about visiting Miami, Florida is the fact that no matter when you go, you can almost always count on getting some sunshine. Yes, south Florida enjoys warm sunny weather all year round. Now couple that with the fact that it has some of the best beaches in America (starting, of course, with the iconic Miami Beach) and you have a beautiful destination worth visiting every single time.

During this time of uncertainty, outdoor activities offer the best ability to safely social distance. Hotels.com asked me to share my favorite activities and tips for exploring Miami, so start here as you plan a safe and responsible vacation.

Of course, if you are going to visit an oceanside city there is simply no way that you can go the entire trip without sunbathing at one of the iconic beaches and getting a glorious tan while you are at it. However, once you are done with all that, or when you are taking a break from laying in the sun, you might want to enjoy these other wonderful attractions that can only be found in Miami, Florida. Here are 5 of the best things to do when you visit Miami.

Take a Ride on the Metromover

Miami has one of the most spectacular skylines in the country. One of the best ways to see it is to party at its iconic rooftop bars at night the other is to ride the metromover during the day. While the locals might think of the metromover as an overcrowded necessity, as a visitor it is by far one of the best ways to get a good look at the city from above. You can simply take a ride from Brickell all the to the Arsht Center and back. That should give you enough time to fully appreciated the alluring architecture that riddles this sunny city.

Go Shopping at the Bayside Marketplace

While Miami has an assortment of well-known chain stores, if you want to find some of the most unique items for sale then you should visit the Bayside Marketplace. Here you will find an array of boutiques in what is America’s most exciting outdoor style malls. The Bayside Marketplace is located right along Miami’s waterfront and it is the place to go if you want to do more than just shop. You can mingle with the locals who come out in droves to soak up the wonderfully lively atmosphere full of live music and all sorts of entertainment.

Rent a Boat and Sail Out into the Ocean

It is true that there is a lot of fun to be had at the beach. You can sunbathe, workout and deep your toes in the warm waters of the Atlantic Ocean. However, if you want to really get out there and have some serious unbridled fun then you should consider renting a boat and sail out into the ocean with a few of your friends. You can do some fishing, more sunbathing, swimming and take awesome selfies showing off your wonderful tan while sipping champagne on a boat in Miami. There are very few better ways to make your friends green with envy.

Where to stay: When visiting Miami, families will want to choose between a midtown or downtown Miami hotel or a South Beach hotel. Miami hotel options are abundant! Bear in mind that while South Beach hotels often have beach access, they also have livelier crowds. Opt for the best environment for your family.

Go Swimming in the Venetian Pool

Miami is one of those metropolitan cities that pays tribute a wide variety of cultures that make it such a warm and vibrant place to be. You can get a taste of Cuba in “Little Havana” or you could experience a little bit of Venice in the Venetian Pool. The Venetian Pool is a historic facility that attracts hundreds of thousands of people each year. Built in 1923, the Venetian Pool can be found in Coral Gables and it was built out of a coral rock quarry. This gorgeous pool holds about 820,000 gallons of water at any given time and is fed by an underground spring water. When summer hits and the pool gets very busy, it gets emptied out and refilled every single day. They even stop selling tickets at some point so you have to book early.

Pay Crandon Park a Visit

If you travel a little south of Miami Beach, right across Rickenbacker Causeway you will come to Key Biscayne. This is one of the most beautiful locations in this part of the planet. As tiny as it is, Key Biscayne has some of the most stunning beaches and outstanding park areas in the region. Out of all these wonderful parks, Crandon Park is by far the most visited and most popular in the area. The reason for this is that the reef here makes swimming a joyous activity. The park also has a Nature and Amusement Center that offers extraordinarily entertaining wholesome family fun. So if you are traveling with the kids be sure to take them over to Crandon Park for an afternoon of fun lessons and reef swimming.

Of course, you could also do the usual things such as:

Go to a vivacious bar
Visit the Miami Children’s Museum
Cruise down Ocean Drive
Catch a live event

Finally, you simply must visit the Miami Sea Aquarium where you can see manatees, killer whales, dolphins and even sharks. The best way to enjoy Miami is to plan a few trips and create a Miami-focused bucket list. You simply cannot do it all in one visit.

We worked in conjunction with hotels.com to bring you the best of Miami. All opinions are our own.

Budget-friendly Spring Break destinations you haven’t thought of

March 15, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

Planning a Spring Break vacation? With only a week or so off school, it can be hard to find a vacation that’s both easy to plan and easy on the wallet. Below, we have over a dozen ideas throughout the US, Caribbean, and Mexico for budget-friendly Spring Break destinations.

Desert destinations:

An easy way to enjoy a warm-weather vacation while saving money is to head to the desert instead of to the beach. Bonus points if you can easily drive to any of these California and Southwest locations:

Borrego Springs:

Never heard of it? I’m not surprised! This oasis in Southern California is generally off the radar, but a great fit for active families. Head to the Palm Canyon Hotel & RV Resort, a boutique clamping resort where families can stay in vintage Airstreams and hike trails location less than two miles from the resort. February, March, and April is the time to come to see wildflowers, and always, the night sky displays brilliant views.

Death Valley National Park:

Located an easy drive from Las Vegas, NV, Death Valley is our top pick for outdoorsy families looking for a warm-weather destination. Camp in the park to save money, or stay at Furnace Creek Resort. Our kids love the wide open grassy spaces, the tennis and basketball courts, and the spring-fed pool. In the park, multiple hikes await: go in the mornings and evenings and spend the middle of the day swimming!

Scottsdale, Arizona:

Family travel website Global Munchkins recommends Scottsdale for spring break…even if you’re not a baseball fan. For a splurge, stay at the Westin Kierland Resort and get a full water park for the price of your stay. Be sure to take kids to the fun shops and dining options in downtown Scottsdale, and visit Phoenix, and sure, spring training, while you’re in the area!

Tip: Pick up youth baseball equipment to ‘get in the game’ before a trip to watch spring training!

On the way to… destinations:

Let’s get real: sometimes, you’re spring break trip is really just a stopover en route to Grandma’s house, a sporting event, or a longer vacation. We’ve compiled the best ‘on the way to…’ locations from top bloggers.

Bowling Green KY:

Often a stopover on the way to Florida or other southern locales, Bowling Green, Kentucky is right on I-65 and is home to an astounding 21 cave tours in the immediate area. Road Trips for Families highlights the best, along with dining and lodging recommendations in the city. If nothing else, be sure to see Mammoth Cave National Park, and perhaps stop at an area museum. You can even at at a dairy and see a car museum on the same day!

West Georgia:

Already vacationing (or living) in Atlanta or St. Simon’s Island? Field Trips with Sue has a full itinerary of West Georgia for an affordable spring break getaway. Highlights include Providence Canyon, Gaines (complete with frontier fort) and the Warm Springs pools. This type of tour offers kids a lesson in history and ecology without them realizing they’re learning…away from school.

French Lick Springs:

For those in the middle of the country, AdventureMom suggests taking a chance on scenic French Lick Springs Resort, Indiana. This resort is known for its stunning architecture, but it also offers activities year round (not just in the summer months). Families can have kids join the kids club, play foot golf, learn about the history of the hotel, and swim in the pools year round. Oh, and parents can get a spa treatment.

Beach destinations:

Want to be warm and feel sand between your toes? You can still book a beach vacation at spring break affordably! Here’s where to go:

St. John, USVI:

Going to the Caribbean for spring break may not seem like a new idea, but St. John is an unique location you may not have considered. Trekaroo recommends spending your Virgin Islands vacation on St. John because of its low-key, quiet atmosphere, and the many outdoor activities afforded. Virgin Islands National Park is here, complete with multiple hiking trails and beaches, and snorkeling is abundant. Stay in a vacation home to save money!

Ventura, CA:

Just an hour north of Los Angeles, Ventura County West is an easy-to-reach section of the California coastline. Families get both seaside charm and inland adventure. Don’t miss the whale migration at this time of year, taking place through mid-April. When we visited, we used Island Packers; rates start at $37 for adults and $27 for kids. Time your visit right, and you may also see the Celebration of the Whales Festival (March 20, Oxnard) or the California Strawberry Festival (May 21 & 22, Oxnard). Either way, definitely head out to the Channel Islands!

Zihuatanejo, Mexico:

I’d never heard of Zihuatanejo until it was recommended by Pint-Sized Pilot: see the top 10 things to do in this Mexican beach destination! This authentic, non-touristy resort village is quiet, scenic, and affordable with local eats. Visit Zihuatanejo markets, enjoy its festivals, and play in its beaches. It’s located on the Pacific side of Mexico, by Ixtapa.

Loreto, Mexico:

Located on the gulf side of Baja California, Loreto is a great pick for families who want to find an alternative to the all-inclusive resort scene. Walking On Travels recommends finding accommodations in town in her Loreto travel guide, to take advantage of local dining opportunities and the town vibe. Snorkeling, whale watching, and swimming is not far away!

Ski destinations:

Haven’t gotten enough ski days in yet? I’m with you! Some of our favorite spring break ski destinations are smaller, hometown resorts that won’t break the bank.

June Mountain:

Located adjacent to Mammoth Mountain in Northern California, smaller June Mountain offers affordable lift tickets and lessons amid the most scenic runs out there. In the backyard of Yosemite National Park, June also has a very friendly atmosphere…the lodge is cozy and warm, the instructors cheerful and not rushed, and the lift lines are usually nonexistent. Stay near Mammoth to get the best of both worlds!

Angel Fire:

Heading to New Mexico this spring break for some warm sunshine and some skiing? Get both by combining a trip to Santa Fe with a stay at Angel Fire. Trekaroo recommends this ski resort because of its great amenities for families at The Lodge and the ability to night ski here (a big plus for teens). For spring breaks without much snow, there’s a wide variety of summer activities at Angel Fire as well.

City destinations:

We love city vacations, and during spring break, we like to head somewhere that’s less likely to have frigid temperatures and snowstorms. These outside-the-box ideas fit the bill!

Seattle, WA:

Blog With 2 Kids in Tow recommends Seattle and neighboring Bainbridge Island as a temperate getaway with both an city and outdoor-venture vibe. Kids love taking the ferry, checking out the city markets, and burning energy in the excellent city parks. If the weather turns rainy, as it does in this part of the state often, several high-quality kids museums and science museums await.

Tallahassee, Florida:

Don’t overlook Tallahassee for family fun in a warm-weather environment. Family Travels on a Budget recommends this nature-studded city for its zip-lining, kayaking, and hiking. Wakulla Springs State Park offers river boat tours, and in the winter and early spring, it’s possible to spot manatees as they migrate up the river. Horseback riding and lighthouse tours are also on offer for families.

Bonus spring break pick:

The Burren, Ireland:

Ireland Family Vacations, the expert on all things families and Ireland, recommends this unique part of Ireland specifically during the spring. During this low-tourist season, families can spot baby animals in nature sanctuaries, go on cliff walks, and try kid-friendly foodie tours. Learn more at Ireland Family Vacations!

Want even MORE ideas? Here are an additional 18 spring break destinations!

Pin this post!

Photo credit | Photo credit