Outdoor or Wilderness Resorts - 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.

Five fall weekend getaways to take on a budget

September 14, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

School’s in session, and magically, travel costs have dropped! Resorts and theme parks across the U.S. are offering discount packages to entice autumn travelers, but what if you only have weekends free? Try any of the following give fall weekend getaways that won’t break the bank. Bonus: not a crowd in sight!

1. Visit a local farm

We can’t say enough good things about farm stay vacations. Most states have farm stays within a half day’s drive from urban areas, making it easy to get away from it all and still leave Friday night after school and work. The best farm stays offer the chance to get your hands dirty (we love feeding time at dusk and herding sheep…harder than it looks!), but plenty are hands-off if you’d rather hike, bike, or sit on a porch swing, taking in the views. Farm stays are affordable, include breakfast (and sometimes additional meals), and include built-in entertainment of the outdoorsy sort. Be aware that many farm stays book rooms ‘B&B style’, which means there may be a fee for more than two people in a room. If you’re unsure whether a farm is kid-friendly, call and ask: almost all farm stays are small businesses, ensuring you can easily connect with the folks right on the property with one phone call. Can’t get away overnight? Make it a day trip, patronizing a U-Pick orchard or berry patch.

2. Stay the night in a yurt or fire tower

Fire lookouts (functional and retired) are enjoying a period of rebirth as exotic sleeping quarters, and they’re not just for the summer months. In fact, fire towers, coastal yurts, and other unique camping accommodations often remained booked solid from June-August, making the autumn months ideal for families with more flexibility. In fact, our favorite fire tower trip took place in February! Bring plenty of warm clothing, but rest assured that unlike tent camping, you’ll have a roof over your head and usually electricity and heat. Fire towers cost less than $75 per night, making them the cheapest ‘motel’ you’ll find with views like these! Bring card games, books, and plenty of hot chocolate. Find additional northwest yurts, towers, and cabins.

3. Ride the rails

Amtrak vacations are expensive…but not in the fall! We priced a ride on the Cascades line through Oregon and Washington, and found fares to be 65% lower in September than in June. And there’s no need to book the pricier sleeper cabins: plan an itinerary that takes you 4-6 hours from home, book one night in your destination, and return home the next day. The kids won’t mind the travel time: while on Amtrak, it’s fun to check out the views from the panoramic cars, eat in the dining or cafe car, and play games in the parlor car. Parents can relax instead of drive, or plan out the day’s itinerary at the destination.

4. Take a city field trip

Remember those hotel discounts I mentioned? You’ll want to take advantage of those! Autumn is our favorite time of year to tour major cities: their museums are less crowded (and school field trips haven’t amped up yet), restaurants have less wait time, and hotel pools are frequented only be the occassional business traveler…and you. Grab CityPass booklets when you go, as we did in San Francisco: you’ll likely have time to actually see all the attractions on a quiet fall weekend!

5. Sleep in a national park lodge

Remember how those fire tower stays get booked fast for summer? That goes double for national park historic lodges. Take advantage of America’s national parks’ off-season and stay in comfort. We especially love Oregon’s Crater Lake Lodge, and Montana’s Many Glacier Lodge. Fall is a great time to spot wildlife, hike trails without summer heat, and canoe across lakes. Just be aware that some seasonal activities, such as horseback stables or swimming beaches, may be closed until spring. Tip: now’s the right time to book your national park lodge stay for next summer, too!

Still not seeing what you’re looking for? Check out more fall getaways!

5 fall weekend getaways to take with the kids

Where do you plan to go this autumn? Tell us about your trip in the comments!

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.

Family farm stays: a review of Leaping Lamb Farm

June 20, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

Eight-year-old Toby wants to be a farmer when he grows up. So instead of spending a few perfect days in May enjoying a traditional family vacation in a hotel or resort, we headed to Leaping Lamb Farm in the coastal range of Oregon, where we got to play farmer for two days. I’ll admit that before arriving at Leaping Lamb, I half-hoped doing farm chores would cure Toby of his farm-love. Instead, the whole family departed at the end of our farm stay with an unnerving desire to move to our own acreage. While this dream may not become reality, our appreciation for family farm stays has been solidified.

Leaping Lamb Farm is located just outside tiny Alsea Oregon, approximately 30 minutes from Corvallis (and two hours from Portland). You can find it, and many other farm stays in states across the U.S., at aptly-named Farm Stay U.S., which serves as a one-stop farm stay directory and how-to guide for families. The founder of Farm Stay U.S. is Scottie Jones, proprietor of Leaping Lamb Farm, so on-property, you know you’re in great hands.

All farm stays are unique, but at Leaping Lamb Farm, everything is hands-on, all the time. With two active boys in tow, I can’t tell you how much this approach to learning about the workings of farm was appreciated. We arrived in the dusk of a Friday evening, and Scottie met us at the gate, ready to give us our initial tour. We became familiar with the Leaping Lamb barn, paddocks, pastures, chicken enclosures, and gardens, and all its residents. The main (and just about only) rule: if a gate is closed, close it again behind you, and if it’s open, keep it open. Beyond this, kids (and parents) are allowed to roam as freely as the livestock in Scottie’s care.

A day in the life of Leaping Lamb:

Our full day at Leaping Lamb started with a morning hike through the coastal range (trails start on Leaping Lamb’s 60 acres), followed by chore time at 9 am. All farm and recreational activities are optional, but we wouldn’t miss the morning feeding for anything. The boys assisted in getting grain, doling out hay, and letting the horses, donkey, and sheep out to pasture. We took some time out to herd and catch Boots, one of Leaping Lamb’s smallest lambs (and now love of Toby and Calvin’s lives). After a special hand-feeding for Boots, it was time to collect the eggs and let the chickens, roosters, turkeys, goose, and resident peacock out to free range.

By 10 am, the morning chores were done, save for the task of mucking out stalls. We jumped in wholeheartedly, but those who opt out could spend the rest of the morning swinging on the orchard swing, exploring Honey Grove Creek, or picking produce from the garden (in season, of course).

We spent the afternoon in the far back pastures befriending sheep (the boys) and reading a good book (me). When a light spring rain began to fall, we retreated to the spacious hayloft, where a basketball hoop and ball beckoned the boys. Later, we ate a picnic lunch and took another hike before evening chores. Should you need more to do, several additional hikes begin nearby, and within a few miles is a fish hatchery. The Oregon coast is a mere hour away, and the fun of Portland is two hours. Had we longer than two nights, we would have used Leaping Lamb as a base for many Oregon adventures.

The Leaping Lamb Experience:

Because the farm is open to your family as their home away from home (only one family of guests stays at a time), and children are encouraged to make the place their own, Leaping Lamb begins to feel like yours within only a matter of hours, not days. We only stayed on property 48 hours, and yet upon departure, the kids felt they knew each nook and cranny and each animal personally. Scottie has a truly special way of including families: the boys knew they were truly useful and helpful, not in the way. Depending on the timing of a stay, guests can be called upon to help find lost sheep, witness births, or other natural farm occurrences. You feel like part of the Leaping Lamb family, not a visitor.

Lodging at Leaping Lamb:

Leaping Lamb Farm has one guest cottage which sleeps up to six. The cottage is as welcoming as the rest of the property, with many windows, cozy rugs, and gas stove heater, a full kitchen, bathroom with tub, and a wide porch. From the futon by the window, you can watch song birds at the bird feeder (we had so many, we filled the feeder twice in 24 hours!) and from the kitchen table, you can watch the rams in their enclosure. The cottage has two bedrooms (with queen beds) and the futon pulls out to become a double. The cottage is already stocked with a port-a-crib, fireplace screen, and high chair, and the kitchen comes stocked for all you need for breakfast (and then some).

Dining options:

Your cottage kitchen comes stocked with the makings of breakfast (including waffles and pancakes) and basic spices and seasonings for all meals. We brought lunch foods with us, which we stored in the full-sized fridge, and we were given all the fresh eggs we could eat. Scottie also brought by freshly baked bread. We could have easily eaten eggs and toast for dinner as well, but opted to drive the mile or so to Alsea, where a small cafe is open part-time and a convenience store (with a lot of character) offers take and bake pizza). If you want more for dinner than such basics, you’ll need to bring your own dinner groceries or be prepared to drive to Corvallis (30 minutes minimum).

What to bring:

Leaping Lamb has truly thought of everything: stocked in the cottage is a full first aid kit, plus plenty of over-the-counter medicines should they be needed. An assortment of rain boots and work boots line the porch, so you can save your own sneakers and boots and use those provided while playing in muddy and manure-y pastures. The bedroom closet contains extra sweatshirts and rain gear as well. We brought our own rain jackets, and used them, and good hiking shoes for the trails. Bring play clothes: they will get dirty. But there’s a washer and dryer in the cottage to use!

The Pit Stops for Kids Leaping Lamb Video:

Rates:

At the time of this posting, daily rates were $150 nightly at the cottage for two guests, which includes breakfast. Additional guests and kids are $25/nightly (age three and under free).

Directions:

Leaping Lamb Farm is located at 20368 Honey Grove Road, Alsea OR. From I-5, it’s about a hour’s drive. Don’t use your GPS navigation’s directions, however. With the many logging roads in the area, it’s easy to be steered wrong. Instead, take Highways 34/20 through Corvallis and Philomath. Turn onto 34 as you leave Philomath heading west toward Alsea. Go about 17+ miles and at mile marker 41, look on left for Honey Grove Road. Drive 1.7 miles up Honey Grove (a maintained, dirt road).

Disclaimer: As I disclose whenever applicable, we were hosted at Leaping Lamb Farm for the purpose of review. While appreciated, this hospitality came with no expectation of a positive review.

How to pick a dude ranch for your family trip

April 15, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

Dude ranch vacations have gained immense popularity in recent years, and for good reason. They combine the peace of mind and convenience of an all-inclusive vacation with the nostalgia of summer camp, all against a backdrop of beautiful wilderness and lively adventure. The best will offer a range of activities that appeal to your whole family, but each ranch specializes in different things and has different strengths and weaknesses. The task of finding the right one for your needs can feel daunting. Here’s how to pick a dude ranch for your family trip, plus top ranches in each of four general categories.

Step 1: Ask yourself the following questions

1. Is horseback riding the most important aspect of a dude ranch vacation for our family?

If the answer is yes, choose from ranches that emphasize their riding programs above all else. These ranches tend to be the best pick for advanced, experienced riders who seek more freedom in their rides.

If the answer is no, you’ll want to look for a ranch that offers a wider range of more generalized activities, or risk booking a ranch that’s all horseback riding, all the time. Many will offer golf, hiking, mountain biking, swimming, and rafting in addition to riding.

2. Are your kids all over at the age of 6-8 years?

If the answer is no, you’ll need to look carefully at the fine print of each dude ranch site, to make sure your kids will be able to participate. At many ranches, kids under age 6-8 (depending on the ranch) cannot join riding programs. Some ranches will offer babysitting or childcare services, but most will require you have an adult in your party willing to forego activities to watch young kids. We highly recommend waiting to take a dude ranch vacation when all kids are over age six, at least.

3. How important is your dining experience at the ranch?

If ranch cuisine is very important, you’re in luck: there are certainly ranches offering gourmet dining experiences. If not, you’ll certainly have more options, and can expect food that falls in the upscale family style buffet category.

4. Will you be combining your dude ranch vacation with other destinations in the same trip?

If yes, look for ranches near vacation destinations that appeal to you, and make your dude ranch stay part of a longer road trip. While some ranches are truly apart from major towns, most will be in ‘gateway’ regions, such as a gateway to the Rockies or Sierras, to a national park, or to a city.

5. Do you want to make new friends, or bond as a family?

At some dude ranches, you can certainly do both, but at others, the kids’ program is separate from the adult program, making the experience is much more like ‘camp’ for the kids. If you have social butterflies who can’t wait to meet new kids, this may be perfect. Pick a ranch with a kids’ program that extends beyond riding to kids’ dining and kids’ afternoon activities. If you want to eat meals as a family and ride as a family, pick a ranch that is structured in this way, and avoid ranches that promote kids’ only dining and adults’ only activities.

Step 2: Narrow down your choices

Use a site such as the Dude Ranchers’ Association or a dude ranch round-up to identify specific ranches that will meet your needs. We recommend staying open-minded regarding ranch location as long as possible, placing a higher emphasis on ranch amenities and programs than on geography. To help you along, we compare and contrast three excellent ranches below. Note that while all are amazing ranches, they offer very different experiences.

Triangle X Ranch in Moose, Wyoming:

Triangle X Ranch gives families quite a bit of rein (pun of course intended). Two rides per day are scheduled for those who wish for them, as well as an all-day ride for adults and optional overnight pack ride for teens. Beginning riders are accommodated, but the focus is definitely on advanced riders. Kids eat and ride separately from adults. Triangle X is open year round, with snow sports offered instead of horseback riding in winter. It’s located inside Grand Teton National Park, with absolutely stunning views. Read a full review of Triangle X.

Pros:

fun, exciting rides
beautiful setting
excellent evening programs and educational components
separate programs (including riding and dining) for adults and kids
nice cabin accommodations

Cons:

Inexperienced riders may feel in over their heads
separate programs for adults and kids
Meals are serviceable, but nothing fancy
WiFi in town only

Three Bars Ranch, Cranbrook, British Columbia:

Three Bars Ranch is set against the backdrop of the Canadian Rockies, and offers a riding program that’s more family-focused. Rides are more flexible, with families able to decide whether to ride together or separately (kids together, with friends, etc) on the morning of each day. Rides are on the controlled side, with options to pick up speed as the week goes on. The ranch is picturesque, and many additional activities are offered. Read a full review of Three Bars.

Pros:

Beautiful grounds with comfortable cabins
WiFi available
family-focused with flexibility for mingling with others
safe horse program
multiple additional activities offered
above-average food
wranglers spend time with guests on and off the trails

Cons:

horse program may be too ‘tame’ for some advanced riders

Tanque Verde Ranch, Tuscan Arizona:

If you want luxury, head to Tanque Verde in the Southwest, or go north to Paws Up in Montana. Both ranches offer a full spa as well as decidedly upscale cuisine. Guests are lodged in luxury dwellings and service is on par with top luxury resorts. Don’t worry: kids aren’t forgotten; they still have a full program of offerings.

Pros:

dining is amazing
service is outstanding

Cons:

high price
riding sometimes takes a backseat to spa treatments or golf

Aspen Ridge Resort, Bly Oregon:

Want a non all-inclusive option? Several ranches in Central and Southern Oregon, such as Aspen Ridge, offer ranch programs with a more B&B feel. Families stay in log cabins with full kitchens, make their own meals, and plan only the number of horseback rides they want. The setting is lovely, and families get a good sense of what a working ranch really feels like. In addition to riding, families can bike, hike, and play tennis. Aspen Ridge is open year round, with snowshoeing offer in winter.

Pros:

stays can be shorter than the standard week
price can be lower, since you pay a la carte
dates are more flexible than an all-inclusive ranch

Cons:

riding is individualized, not in a program (could be a pro)
dining is on your own, or in Aspen Ridge’s dining room (a la carte)

Have you gone on a dude ranch vacation? What’s your pick?

Photo credit: Ken Bosna, Amy Whitley

Tahoe with kids: Mourelatos Lakeshore Resort review

January 19, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

When we visit Lake Tahoe, we visit for the skiing, and we tend to stay slopeside at ski resorts. However, there’s a lot to do in North Lake Tahoe in the winter and summer that does not involve downhill skiing! If your family prefers lakeside relaxation, snow play, Tahoe dining, or summer Tahoe beach-going, hiking, and mountain biking, stay at the lakeshore instead of in ski villages.

Mourelatos Lakeshore Resort review:

This deceivingly simple travel lodge blew me away! Mourelatos Lakeshore Resort has been family-owned by the Mourelatos family since the 1970s and is located directly on the sand in Tahoe Vista, in North Lake Tahoe. It has 16 units of standard hotel rooms and 16 units with full kitchens, all of which have lake views and are steps from the sand. The Mourelatos family has taken care to provide many touches that add value to a stay here: you’ll find an impressive outdoor BBQ station for families to use at their leisure, beachfront lounging, two outdoor hot tubs, free parking and WiFi, and a free continental breakfast each morning (though this is basic). In addition, activities are always on the books, whether that be game night in the lobby or s’mores by the beach.

Where Mourelatos really shines: local information is at each visitor’s fingertips. I spoke with owner Alex Mourelatos, who explained that guests wanting plenty to do need only ask: the hotel has 18 acres of property on the other side of the highway filled with trails and trees. In winter, families sled and snowshoe here, and can connect to the adjacent Tahoe Vista Regional Park for more outdoor adventure. In summer, hiking and mountain biking abounds. The front desk staff can also point families to the best dining options, water activities and Tahoe events. In summer, canoes, paddleboards and kayaks are available, and in winter, snow play toys are laid out for kids.

I enjoyed a room at the far end of the resort with perfect lake views, a full kitchen and large deck over the sand. Rates during the winter when I visited were as low as $162, a great value for lakefront property. Mourelatos is within 20 minutes of Diamond Peak ski resort and within 30 minutes of Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows and Northstar. If you have beginning skiers and snowboarders or simply want a low-cost ski experience, Granlibakken is within 15 minutes’ drive.

If you go:

Mourelatos Lakeshore Resort is located at 6834 N Lake Blvd, Tahoe Vista. It does sell out in the summer months, so book far ahead to ensure you get a room!

Fall in the Poconos: Woodloch Pines Family Resort review

November 16, 2020 By Amy Hagstrom

Woodloch Pines is open this fall. See how they’re safely handling operations during COVID-19.

An hour northeast of Scranton, Penn., Woodloch has been an East Coast family destination for generations, with many families returning year after year. While there are a number of properties under the Woodloch umbrella, the one families will want to zero in on is the family resort, Woodloch Pines. This is one of those rare places that successfully blends upscale amenities and exceptional staff with no-fuss, kid-friendly fun.

Woodloch Pines Family Resort review:

What does all-inclusive mean at Woodloch Pines Family Resort?

At Woodloch, your per-person nightly rate includes meals and most activities, from permanent attractions to staff-led games and competitions. You’re responsible for alcohol, special kids’ drinks, soft drinks at the night club and sports bar, and some of the more specialized activities. But there are no surprises; activity fees are listed on the daily activity sheet. A 15% tip is added to the bill at the end of your stay and pooled among the staff.

Dining at Woodloch:

Meals in Woodloch’s main dining room are included in your nightly rate. They are upscale and multi-course—breakfast alone has a baked item, fruit, cereal, and entree. Dinner is similarly delicious and extensive. (The seafood was fabulous.) We found, in the interest of avoiding food waste, that it was better to skip a course altogether and split desserts—or even entrees.

In this dining room, no one will glare at your kids for being kids. The inclusive menu offers them a chance to order grown-up food with low risk, but standard kids’ fare is also available. The bar prepares kids’ cocktails alongside those for adults. Best of all, the meals are served quickly, so even though it’s fine dining, kids will not have to sit in boredom for twenty minutes while food is prepared. That’s what I call family-friendly!

Rates and Accommodations:

Woodloch offers a number of different room types to accommodate different family needs. We stayed in an Edgewater suite with two bathrooms, a walk-in closet, a single bedroom with two Queen beds and a pullout couch. It was the most comfortable hotel bed I’ve ever slept in, hands down. The room was designed for comfort and convenience over fancy decor. Don’t get me wrong; it was very nice! But at Woodloch Pines, you won’t spend your stay praying your kids don’t break something. There are multiple coin-operated laundry rooms. We also had in-room recycling, and the guest Wi-Fi was reliable and even worked outside much of the time.

Rates vary by season and accommodation type. During off peak seasons, rates start at $137 per adult/per night with kids 6 and under free. During peak seasons, rates start at $225 per adult/per night with graded rates for children 18 and under.

Getting there:

Woodloch is located at 731 Welcome Lake Rd., Hawley, PA 18428. The management urges visitors not to depend on GPS systems, but instead to follow the directions on their site. You will probably want to cross-reference online mapping to get mileage amounts, though, and many guests we talked to recommended using Waze. But be sure you specify Woodloch Pines, as the Woodloch umbrella also includes a golf resort, a lodge/spa, and numerous vacation rental options. The road from Hawley to Woodloch is winding mountain road; it takes some effort to get there, but it’s well worth it. Once you reach the resort, you can get around on foot or by shuttle.

Up next, making the most of activities at Woodloch!

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Glamping on the Oregon coast at Bay Point Landing

October 29, 2020 By Amy Hagstrom

Located in Coos Bay, Oregon, Bay Point Landing offers safe and affordable glamping on the Oregon coast. You can see their safety and sanitation measures here.

Glamping on the Oregon Coast: full review of Bay Point Landing in Coos Bay.

What elevates this luxury RV resort to ‘glamping’ status: its Airstream and cabin rentals, amenities, and location.

Located ight on the bay on the Southern Oregon ‘adventure’ coast, Bay Point Landing features a short section of sandy beach (stroll-worthy, not swim-worthy), grasslands and estuary, and bay. Wildlife is plentiful if you sit awhile at your fire pit and take in the views. You’re five minutes from Coos Bay and 25 minutes from Bandon.

Accommodations:

You can bring your own motorhome or RV and utilize their upscale slips, which include plenty of pull-through spaces and very nice fire rings and picnic tables. Or, you can enjoy glamping on the Oregon coast in one of their 14 Airstreams or 22 Scandinavian-style cabins.

We opted for an Airstream experience, and settled into our 2018 International with queen bed, water views, beach access, and deck chairs. The kitchenette came with just about everything we needed, including all pots and pans, dishes, silverware, and salt and pepper. There is no full oven, but you get a stove top with three burners, a fridge and freezer, microwave, electric kettle, pour-over coffee maker, and toaster.

We cooked up pasta and tossed a salad for our first night, then opted to explore the culinary offerings along the coast for subsequent dinners, but you could request a cooking grill to borrow.

We loved our fire pit and Adironodack chairs, and inside, we had two TVs with cable and fast WiFi. Two bundles of firewood and starter came with or rental.

We experienced the Airstream as a couple, working remotely. If you’re traveling with small kids, one Airstream will absolutely accommodate two adults and two young kids, but if you have teenagers, I recommend renting two Airstreams or two cabins next to one another.

Tips for luxury Airstream living:

There’s plenty of storage space, so definitely put your things away to avoid clutter in the small space.
The thermostat took us awhile to figure out: you need to hit the ‘program’ button to set your desired temperature. The Airstream heats up or cools down quickly once you have it set.
The shower has low water pressure, which is typical of an RV, but the hot water definitely comes out hot!
You have plenty of plugs and USB access throughout.
Bring slippers for the cold floors!
If you bring a dog (yes, Bay Point Landing is dog-friendly), utilize the pet sheet and blanket that comes included in your dog kit that accompanies your $25 pet deposit. It’s perfect for sandy paws.

Cabin info:

Guests have their choice between three types of cabins (there are 22 cabins total). ‘Dune’ cabins are the largest, sleeping six, with a private bedroom, open loft area, and full bath (with tub).

‘Drift’ cabins sleep four, and ‘Kamp Haus’ cabins sleep two. All have a full bath (with shower in Drift and Kamp Haus) and a kitchenette similar to what’s described in the Airstream section. You get outdoor chairs and fire pits (plus firewood).

For the cabins and Airstreams, it’s worth upgrading to oceanfront (bay front) for the fabulous views.

Amenities:

No matter where you stay, the amenities at Bay Point Landing really make the experience more special.

The Clubhouse:

Uniquely designed by acclaimed architecture firm, OFFICEUNTITLED, the clubhouse is several buildings in one, ‘deconstructed’ to give an open, airy feel (perfect for social distancing). In the Clubhouse spaces, you’ll find the indoor heated saltwater pool, kids’ den (small entertainment space), activity room (designed for older kids and adults with shuffleboard and a wall-sized Scrabble board), fitness center (with Peleton bike and other machines, plus a few medicine balls and mats), and check-in office with a small selection of groceries (and wine and beer).

Outdoor amenities:

On the grounds, dispersed between RV slips, you have a Bocce ball area, a kids’ playground, communal fire rings, individual showers and bathrooms, laundry facilities, and a fabulous pavilion that includes outdoor heaters, ample seating and tables, wind breaks, couches, and a large screen TV. This area is ideal for small group gathering, communal meals, and the like.

Costs:

Cabin and Airstream rentals are approximately $145-$230 per night, depending on cabin type and view type. RV slips are approximately $45 for a partial view. Inquire for exact pricing.

After spending three nights at Bay Point Landing, I only have two requests/wishes: the resort needs to implement a recycling program (currently cannot recycle onsite), and I’d love to soak in a hot tub on the deck outside the pool, overlooking the bay!

Disclaimer: As we always note when applicable, we experienced Bay Point Landing as guests of the resort, for the purpose of review. All opinions remain our own.

Best Mountain Towns: Jackson Hole Wyoming

September 10, 2020 By Amy Hagstrom

Ready for a Western vacation in a breathtaking setting? Jackson, Wyoming is one of the best vacation towns for families, in any season. We love to visit in summer, where we can base ourselves in Jackson to explore Grand Teton National Park, the Snake River, and area lakes and hikes. Here’s what you can expect in Jackson Hole, what to do, where to stay, and where to eat. Read on for our Jackson Hole Wyoming guide:

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 Jackson Hole, so start here as you plan a safe and responsible vacation.

The center of Jackson Hole is pedestrian-friendly, with a central square decorated with elk antlers and more than a few Western wear clothing stores and outdoor stores. You’ll find plenty of cowboy bars and casual eateries in the center of town, too. Along the outskirts, families will find the larger resorts, including the ski resorts of Snow King (just outside town) and Jackson Hole (a few miles away). The entire region is framed by the majesty of the Tetons….Grand Teton National Park is only 20 miles away, up Hwy 26 or Hwy 390.

Where to stay:

There are as many types of lodging in and around Jackson as there are ways to enjoy this town. Families can opt for luxury at the Four Seasons Jackson Hole or the Teton Village area, or find lower-budget motels in town (book early!). One travel hack for this area is to book a stay at the Snake River/Jackson Hole KOA just outside town. By far the nicest KOA we’ve stayed in, their luxury cabins are immaculate, and include full kitchens and bathrooms. Located directly on the Snake River about 15 minutes from Jackson Hole, this KOA also offers its own float trip in season. In addition to luxury cabins, they offer standard cabins for well under the cost of a hotel room, and standard RV and tent camping sites, some of which are directly on the river.

As travel today remains uncertain, please keep your safety and the safety of others in mind at all times. If you are comfortable with traveling, please travel responsibly and within regulation as any travel is at your own risk. If you do decide to travel at this time, here are our recommendations:

Wear a face mask.
Bring hand sanitizer and wash your hands on a regular basis.
Check official websites before your trip for the latest updates on policies, closures and status of local businesses.
Book a hotel with free cancellation in case you need to change your plans at the last minute.

What to do in Jackson Hole:

Plan at least one full day in town. Find parking once, then leave the car during the busy summer months and hoof it from place to place…everything is close by. Browse the fun shops in the heart of town, then head down Snow King Avenue to Snow King Mountain Resort. Try the alpine slide here, or the other summer recreational offerings.

In warm weather, head next to the Amaz’n Jackson Hole Maze, where kids are given a water gun and sent into a large wooden maze to wage their water wars. This is good old fashioned fun at its best! Be sure to leave time to catch the historic Jackson Hole Rodeo, which performs every Wednesday and Saturday night in summer. Bring sweaters or a blanket…once the sun goes down over the Tetons, the summer air gets chilly!

Just outside of town, Jackson Hole Mountain Resort offers mountain biking with lift access during the summer months (and world-class skiing in winter). Families can also ride the ariel tram, try the bungee trampoline, or find hiking trails from Teton Village, at the base of the resort.

On a second day, plan a Snake River float trip from one of many operations based in Jackson Hole; we love to go with OARS. With the Tetons as a backdrop, Snake River floats are scenic but not high adrenaline affairs; look for wildlife and expect a packed lunch en route.

Head into Grand Teton National Park, entering the park at Moose to hike along Phelps Lake (we enjoyed bear sightings here), or continue on to Jenny Lake and String Lake for excellent swimming. Park at String Lake for the best kayaking, SUPing, and wading, but get there early in the summer months…it fills up fast. Farther into the park, rent canoes on Jackson Lake or take a horseback ride at Colter Bay Village.

Where to eat:

We’re not foodies. When we travel, we usually want healthy dining options in a casual atmosphere. In Jackson Hole, we love Pizzeria Caldera, MacPhail’s Burgers, and the Snake River Brewing Company. For great coffee and wifi, the Bunnery is our go-to morning location.

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

Winter backcountry skiing: a stay with Cascade Huts

January 27, 2020 By Amy Hagstrom

As soon as I was made aware of Cascade Huts, a system of backcountry cabins in the Mt. Hood wilderness near Government Camp, Oregon, I knew we had to review it! Set miles away from civilization, each of Cascade Huts’ three rustic cabins are situated along backcountry ski and bike trails accessible in winter from any of three area sno parks. Overnight guests snowshoe or cross-country ski in, stay a night (or two or three!), and hike out on any of several available routes.

We’re avid backpackers, but even so, the idea of packing in overnight supplies (even to a shelter) in winter with the kids was intimidating. From the moment I contacted owners James and Don, my worries were set aside. James emailed me many times, answering all my questions in a very professional and knowledgable manner. One of the nicest things about the Cascade Hut system is its flexibility: guests can opt to hike a short or long distance, choose difficult or easier (note I didn’t say easy) terrain, and even navigate their own routes if they’re skilled in GPS navigation.

Since we’re not expert navigators, I asked James to choose the best route for our single overnight to the White River Hut. Because I was trekking in with kids who are new to cross-country skiing, and I’d be using the provided maps and directions instead of a GPS unit, he suggested we travel the historic Barlow Road from the Barlow Pass Sno-Park, on Highway 35 (longer in distance, but easier to navigate). On the provided maps, I noted that this route was marked as ‘intermediate’, as opposed to the ‘expert’ route also available.

Even so, the Barlow Road was no joke: we navigated the six mile wet powder trail (with multiple small creek crossings and over 1000 feet of elevation change) in just over five hours, needing to stop often to make adjustments, carefully cross creeks, and pick each other up! Luckily, we had planned to be on the trail most of the day, so we’d gotten an early start and made sure to have a picnic lunch ready for the route. Note: even in winter…especially in winter…make sure you include enough water for all members of your group, and keep hydrated.)

We arrived at the White River Hut before sundown, and trust me, it was a welcome sight! The kids (with their endless energy) made snow forts outside while we prepped the cabin: detailed instructions await you upon arrival, and include turning on the propane to run the heater, stove, and gas lanterns. The hut is 256 square feet and sleeps up to eight people. Four bunks line two walls, a third wall features a kitchen counter, supplies, and a stove, and the fourth houses the front door and wall-mounted propane heater. Small windows provide adequate light and ventilation (be careful of CO2 poisoning while using propane!), and a table and chairs provide a nice space to eat and play games.

While staying in Cascade Huts, there’s no need to overpack! I admit, we did just that; not being certain what would be provided (better safe than sorry), we packed in more equipment and water than necessary. Though there is no running water (or electricity), the cabin-side creek was running freely in February, and we were able to both pump clean water and boil snow on the stove for drinking water. In the cabin are sleeping bags (just bring liners), lots of board games (we didn’t need to haul in our poker chips and cards!), all kitchen utensils, pots, pans, plates, and mugs (could have saved pack space there!). Also stocked was a good first aid kit, toilet paper, a snow shovel, and plenty of extra gas cylinders for the portable heater. There’s also an outhouse about 40 yards down the trail, but we found it very difficult to access in the winter, due to a nearby stream.

Note: Summer guests are provided with food and water as well, but in the winter, it would freeze!

Once we figured out the propane and various features of the cabin, we were quite comfortable (cozy, even!) all night. It’s important to bring plenty of layers of clothing for each person, as drying out wet gear is tough. We brought two sets of gloves, hats, and under layers for everyone, and were glad we did, when we were caught in a snow/rain storm on our hike back out.

If you go:

1. Make sure you feel comfortable in the backcountry. The Mt. Hood wilderness is very remote, and all guests should be comfortable following topographical maps and/or GPS units. We had several maps as well as a compass, and used all three. You won’t get cell phone service at the cabin, but it still doesn’t hurt to bring one along. My iPhone didn’t get a signal (though my compass app came in handy), but T-Mobile BlackBerry phones or other smart phones might. Cascasde Huts does a great job of preparing guests (and putting them at ease), and every guest signs a waiver, which isn’t only due to liability, but also ensure their location is known on the date they’ve reserved the cabin(s), an important safety step.

2. If cross-country skiing or snowshoeing is new to you, take a trial run. Since we’re expert downhill skiers, we underestimated the difficulty of cross-country skiing. Though I grew up with the sport, it was Nate (12) and Calvin’s (10) first time, and there was a slight learning curve. The terrain to the huts is steep in places, involves obstacles like logs, creeks, and rocks, and shouldn’t be taken lightly.

3. If you need to rent equipment, go to MountainTracks in the nearby town of Government Camp. You can reserve what you need ahead of time online, making for an easy pick-up!

4. If you’re going the distance (six miles or more), opt for skis instead of snowshoes. Maps of all routes will be sent to you from Cascade Huts, but I also recommend picking up a snowshoe and backcountry trail map at MountainTracks.

Check out the Pit Stops for Kids’ Kid Cam video for a better glimpse of our experience:

Date last visited: February 20, 2012

Distance from the interstate: The Barlow Pass Sno Park (trailhead) is on Hwy 35 (just shy of Hwy 26). The area is approximately 1 hour from Portland, OR.

Nightly Rate: In winter, a Cascade Hut cabin can be reserved for $150 per night (for up to eight people). Additional nights (up to three) can be reserved for a discounted price. In summer, mountain bike routes are available, and prices start at $300 per person for a 4-day, 3-night itinerary that includes meals.

Directions: Depending on your route and hut destination, trailheads are located at any of three area sno parks. Our adventure began at the Barlow Pass Sno Park, located one mile from Government Camp on Highway 35. Be sure to get a sno park permit!

Thanks to Cascade Huts for providing us with one night’s lodging at the White River Hut. This compensation came with no expectation of a positive review.