state - Pitstops for Kids

Yellowstone lodging alternative: Harriman State Park

July 24, 2013 By Amy Hagstrom

I almost hate to let readers in on this golden secret, which we learned through on-the-road experience, but if you’re looking for a peaceful, non-crowded lodging experience near the west entrance of Yellowstone National Park, you’ll want to book a yurt or ranch dorm room at Harriman State Park just over the border in Idaho.

Located 30 miles from Yellowstone, this state park is different than most for two distinct reasons: 1. it is a Greater Yellowstone Region wildlife and bird sanctuary and 2. there are no campgrounds (tent or RV). Instead, two lodging options near Yellowstone are offered at the park: two yurts and multiple historic dorm rooms in the historic Railroad Ranch.

We reserved a yurt, and loved both its location and amenities. In fact, Harriman State Park yurts are the best we’ve seen. How so? They are larger than standard state park yurts in Oregon and Washington (our other yurt experience), and include a cozy wood-burning stove, box of cut wood ready to use, propane cook stove and propane lantern. Outside, families get a fire pit and table, and indoors, another full-sized table is set in the center of the yurt. These yurts do not have electric light, so families will need to bring propane to use the lantern and stove. We didn’t know this in advance, but made due just fine with flashlights and cooking over the fire pit.

The yurts sleep six comfortably, and are set away from each other and everything else on the end of Silver Lake and its bird sanctuary. Families are within easy walking distance of the lake, hiking trails, and the historic ranch site. If you don’t spend the night, a stop is still warranted to see the historical sites, picnic (areas are located past the lake), and hike.

If you do want to RV or tent camp, or want to be on a lake where you can fish, boat, and swim, multiple options exist along Highway 20 in and around the community of Island Park, Idaho.

Date last visited:

June 2013

Distance from the interstate:

Right off Highway 20, 30 minutes from Yellowstone.

Yurt rates:

$60 (plus taxes and fees)

Dining:

Buy food before arriving. There is a small store located at the far end of the park on Highway 20, but it’s limited. If you do want to dine out, you’ll need to drive into Island Park, where there are a number of casual bars, pubs, and the like.

Directions:

Harriman is located at 3489 Green Canyon Rd in Island Park, Idaho. From I-15, connect with Highway 20 and head north toward Yellowstone. From the national park, exit at the West Entrance and connect with Highway 20.
Island Park, ID

Cave spelunking at Craters of the Moon National Monument

July 22, 2013 By Amy Hagstrom

For families driving through Southern Idaho en route on I-84 or toward Yellowstone National Park, a stop at Craters of the Moon National Monument is well worth the time. This park of lava tubes and geological displays is visually stunning with its rocky volcanic landscape and cinder cone, but the true wonders are below ground. The highlight for our family was certainly the cave exploration within the park.

Start at the visitor’s center at the park entrance, and watch a short film on the park, then obtain a cave permit. (Permits are required to enter any caves in the park in an effort to protect bats from a common bat disease.) Once you have your permit (and enough flashlights or headlamps for everyone in your party), head out on Crater Loop Road, and follow signage to the cave area. You’ll see a parking area and paved path to the lava field with five caves. We toured the Dewdrop Cave (small and good to start with), the Indian Tunnel (large but still well-lit), and the Boy Scout Cave (dark, icy, and requiring much scrambling). If you have adventurous kids in your group like we have, they’ll also want to explore additional lava tubes running throughout the beds.

Note: You’ll want sturdy shoes with good grip in the caves, as well as lights (headlamps are best). Keep kids close to you, because there are many ways to go inside the caves and many small tunnels that are tempting to explore. Be aware of icy rocks.

If cave spelunking isn’t your thing, the Crater Loop Road also includes numerous view points, a short hike up a cinder cone, and day hikes. There is a campground at Craters of the Moon which is visually beautiful but low on shade or wind protection; I’d recommend it for RV campers, not tent campers. The visitor’s center has an indoor atrium where families can eat bag lunches, but no outdoor picnic areas. Don’t forget to get the kids’ National Parks Passports stamped!

Date last visited:

June 2013

Distance from the Interstate:

1.5 hours (right on US Highway 20).

Admission:

Car fee is $8. Campground fees may apply.

Operating hours:

Visitor’s Center: 8 am to 6 pm during summer months. Call for opening season dates: 208-527-1335

Directions:

Craters of the Moon is located off US Highway 20/26 between Arco and Carey, Idaho.

Where to stay at Canyons Resort: Hyatt Escala review

July 19, 2013 By Amy Hagstrom

Canyons Resort in Park City has several top-tier lodging options for families to choose from (we’ll be reviewing several this week!), but our new favorite just might be the Hyatt Escala Lodge. Why is this property where to stay at Canyons? The Escala’s proximity to the slopes is just as good if not better than neighboring Summit Lodge, and there is more room for families to spread out in this predominately suite-based property. It’s quieter than lodging options right in The Canyons‘ base area, but still only a two minute walk away.

We were here for a summer stay, but winter guests enjoy the same perks, with the added benefit of a ski valet (one of our all-time favorite things to find at any luxury resort). Families can enjoy a beautiful outdoor pool facility with two hot tubs, plus a nicely sized exercise facility and sauna. The Escala is divided into three buildings which all face into a central court and share an underground parking garage. You certainly don’t get the ‘sprawling’ resort feeling you might at other ski resorts, as you’re close to everything. Even though we were in Uinta, which is not in the building with the dining options or the building with the pool and exercise options, we were literally only steps from both.

In summer, the Escala’s front door opens directly out onto hiking trails, mountain biking facilities, and is 3 minute walk from the Red Pine Gondola of The Canyons. In winter, you’re even closer to the slopes with a smaller chair option. We easily walked into the Canyons’ base area repeatedly for dining, recreation, and shopping.

We experienced a one-bedroom suite, which provided plenty of room for our family of five. The bedroom included a queen bed, and the living area had a pull-out double bed/couch. We had room for a roll-away as well. The one-bedroom suite includes a full gourmet kitchen, which makes dining in-room easy, and a fully sized washer and dryer. Hallelujah! Our second floor view looked out on aspen trees and the base area. In room, we enjoyed high speed internet (no charge), gourmet coffee, and both a tub and shower in the single bathroom. Our only inconvenience: the bathroom didn’t lend to much privacy with its two entrances (one from the living area and one from the bedroom.

Date last visited:

June 2013

Room rates:

At the time of my stay, room rates started at $199/night. Seasonal discounts can be found.

Dining:

Hyatt’s dedication to healthy, locally-sourced food is carried out at the Escala. At the Escala Provisions Company, both a restaurant and an on-site market, kids can eat off the innovative By Kids, For Kids menu (we’ve sampled this at Hyatt at Olive 8 in Seattle) and grab-and-go wraps, sandwiches, and soups are easy to order all day long. This dining option does not come cheap, so families will want to also grocery shop before arrival and utilize suite kitchens.

Learn more about things to do in Park City!

Distance from the interstate:

Just minutes from I-80

Directions:

The Hyatt Escala is located at 3551 N Escala Ct, Park City. From UT-224 headed into town, take a left at Canyons Resort Drive, then turn right onto High Mountain Road.

Five day guided rafting trips Rogue River review with O.A.R.S.

July 17, 2013 By Amy Hagstrom

If deciding whether multi-day guided rafting trips are right for you, you’ve no doubt read all the information available on numerous river rafting websites, scanned itineraries, and compared reviews. But which to pick? Nothing beats a day by day report from ‘the field’: we spent five days in July on the Wild and Scenic Rogue River with O.A.R.S. 5 day Rogue River trip. Read on for our full experience, plus river rafting tips.

Day 1:

Day 1 actually starts the evening before departure, with a meeting at departure point Morrison Rogue River Lodge. We met our lead guide Laurie at this point, who handed out dry sacks in which we were to pack our personal belongings and sleep kits. (Families can bring their own sleeping bags and pads, or rent from OARS.) Laurie answered any last-minute questions, and let us know our departure time for the river the following day (8:30 am). This was also the point at which we met our fellow rafting partners. On our July trip, we had a total of 11 clients in the group: a family of four (kids aged 7 and 10), family of three (kid aged 10), family of two (myself and son Calvin, aged 12), and couple of two.

We departed from Almeda Bar the next morning (a very short van ride from Morrison’s), and met our additional three guides, Alyssa, Noah, and Jenae. After a safety talk from guide Alyssa and an introduction to our modes of transportation on the river: oar (gear) boats and inflatable single and double kayaks (or duckies), we floated through mild riffles and flat water, a good warm-up for our first challenge: Rainie Falls. Rainie is a Class V rapid, but there is an optional Class IV route, which we took. Rafters 12 and up had the option of ‘duckying’ through; the rest of us rode as passengers on the sturdy gear boats. Calvin opted to ducky: it’s worth noting that lead guide Laurie had, in only a few hours time, already been able to access his ability level as competent for this challenge.

We stopped for our first lunch shortly after Rainie Falls, where we were introduced to food procedures. OARS always has a hand-washing station set up by the food table, as well as ice-cold water and a ‘juice of the day’. Rafters use assigned OARS mugs throughout the trip. Lunch blew us all away: delicious cold cuts and pulled pork sandwiches, along with appetizers of crackers and cheese and fresh fruit. There’s always a cookie option for dessert!

We rafted another few hours, stopping periodically where our guides knew of good ‘jumping rocks’ and swimming holes, then made camp at a sandy beach overlooking the water. We were introduced to the ‘groover’, the portable toilet system (if you’re used to camping, this will be no big deal), and our first of many delicious dinners (baked salmon with cobbler for dessert). Wine, beer, and soda are available at dinner.

Day 2:

By Day 2, we felt we had gotten our feet wet (pun intended) and more people were eager to try the duckies. We had mild water in the morning, making for a perfect opportunity for the younger kids to kayak. Our guides stopped for lunch near a short hike to a historic cabin (Whisky Cabin) and excellent swimming hole in a nearby creek. We spotted rattlesnakes on Day 2, as well as bald eagles and osprey. We camped on Day 2 on a gravel bar on the shore, perfect for the fishermen in our group. The rest of us swam, played games with the guides, and played cards.

Day 3:

During our evening pow-wow the night before (during which the guides let us know the plan for the following day), we learned that we’d have a short river day on Day 3, allowing us to reach our desired campsite before others (its beauty and location make it popular). While I was initially disappointed to be stopping before lunch, I quickly realized that a day off the water still meant a day of fun. Our camp was between the river, a sandy beach, and a creek, with the historic Rogue River Ranch (with museum) above us. We explored the ranch, played games, swam, and creek hiked all afternoon, with no worry about ‘what’s for dinner’, food prep, or clean-up. Our energetic guides had everything under control. I loved having time for journal writing and novel reading while the guides led field games at the ranch.

Day 4:

By Day 4, our small group had really gelled, and the kids very much enjoyed each other’s company. We had a big day on the river: exciting Blossom Bar rapids and scenic yet challenging Mule Creek Canyon. Our morning started with a swim test (after a breakfast of eggs benedict), necessary for anyone wanting to ducky through the canyon. Calvin and one adult tried and passed. (The swim test involves purposely tipping over your kayak, swimming, flipping it back over in the water, and getting back in.)

We scouted Blossom Bar before rolling up the duckies and taking the gear rafts through, then re-inflated them for Mule Creek Canyon. Our ‘ducky-ers’ did great, despite our guide losing an oar boat oar to the jagged rocks. We emerged from Mule Creek Canyon at Paradise Lodge, a unique lodge accessible only by river, and enjoyed ice creams on the sunny deck overlooking the water. We camped nearby, celebrating the 4th of July with yet another gourmet dinner and dessert. The guides surprised us with a corn-on-the-cob eating contest and birthday cake for Calvin and another rafter. Their culinary skills were truly amazing.

Day 5:

Our last day took us through more beautiful scenery and our best ‘rock jump’ yet: up Tate Creek to a swimming hole with a rope climb to a natural water slide. We pulled off the river once more for yet another jump into the Rogue, photos by yet another waterfall, and yet another excellent lunch (tuna salad sandwiches and lox). Departing the river at Foster Bar, none of us were quite ready to be done.

River rafting tips:

1. Ask about your fellow rafters before booking. We had a great group of people, but don’t just hope to get lucky: inquire about the demographic of your group before committing. Definitely aim for a trip with other kids attending if you’re bringing your own. Kids will have fun even if they are the only ones underage, but a big part of the enjoyment for us was the fellow rafters.

2. Leave modesty at home. If you’re not squeamish about the ‘groover’, you’ll have a better time. The unit is always set up somewhere private, but it’s still in the outdoors (no walls or doors to lock). Toilet situation aside, you’ll be spending multiple days camping with strangers; after Day 1, we were quite comfortable with one another.

3. Follow the packing list. The OARS packing list is very thorough, and we found it very useful. Even if you don’t think you’ll need rain gear or a jacket, bring what’s on the list. It’s also helpful to have comfortable shoes for in camp at night. Opt to use one of OARS sleeping pads instead of a Therma-Rest style: they are three-times as thick and comfortable!

4. Bring camp toys. Even following the packing list to a ‘T’, you’ll have room for a few toys. Bring a Nerf ball or deck of cards, or even lawn games. If you think you’d like to fish, bring your equipment (room will be made on the boats) and a license.

5. Definitely have a good hat and two pairs of sunglasses each. We lost two pairs on the water, and we were thankful for our hats from day 1.

6. Don’t bring food. You won’t need any. Really.

7. Bring a tip. I put mine (cash) in an envelope inside a small dry back (available at sports stores). The lead guide does not return home with you on the van after the trip, and it’s best to give it directly to him or her to distribute. These guides earn their tips (and more) and it will be safe on the trip.

Disclaimer: We experienced OARS as guests of the tour operation, for the purpose of review.

The Lodge at Running Y Ranch: a Holiday Inn Resort in Southern Oregon

July 15, 2013 By Amy Hagstrom

In remote Southern Oregon at the edge of the Cascades, just outside the small town of Klamath River, The Running Y Ranch offers relaxation and fun for families. This golf community of private homes, condos, and guest rooms is small enough to feel cozy, yet large enough to have everything families want: high-end dining, recreation, pampering, and outdoor adventure. The property is within easy driving distance of mountain lakes, Crater Lake National Park, and world-class fly fishing.

The Lodge at Running Y:

Guests will want to book at The Lodge at Running Y, a Holiday Inn Resort property. This lodge reflects the feel of the rest of the property: it’s intimate without being small. The spacious lobby–which is modern and fresh–is appointed with fireplace, cozy chairs, and an outdoor recreation center (more on that below), and the grounds include deck and lawn space with seating overlooking the resort, nice landscaping, and beautiful golf course and Klamath Basin views.

We stayed in two adjoining standard rooms, appointed with Holiday Inn Resort touches (we love the pillows and beds of this brand). Rooms include mini-fridges and microwaves for easy breakfast preparation and snacking, plus free wifi, decent coffee, and spacious bathrooms. (Some rooms have only a shower while others have shower/tub combination.) The only thing our rooms lacked that we missed: balconies on which to enjoy the nice views. From our windows, we saw eagles, pelicans, and deer during out visit.

Golf:

Golf is a central sport at The Running Y, but not as much part of the lifeblood of the resort as at some other Oregon resorts. Meaning, if you don’t golf, you won’t feel as though you’re missing the main aspect of the property. There is one 18-hole Arnold Palmer-designed course, which is challenging and beautiful. We took the kids out on the links for 9 holes, and everyone at the golf clubhouse from the golf pro to the starter was very friendly and welcoming to kids on the course. The other golfers sharing the course with us that day were relaxed and casual (no uptight golfers on our visit!) and we were able to relax and let the kids play at their pace for the most part (not always true everywhere). With no fewer than five tee boxes, there was a tee for everyone to play his own game. If you get hungry on the course, there’s both a mobile snack cart which makes an appearance or two, plus a sandwich and hot dog counter at the clubhouse for lunch at the turn.

Also of note: take the kids for a practice run on the Running Y putting course: it’s a very fun 18 hole course that’s perfect for a warm-up the day before golfing or in place of golfing for young kids!

Sports Center:

When not golfing, your whole family will want to be at the Running Y sports center. Located adjacent to the lodge, this complex includes a beautiful indoor pool, hot tub, and children’s wading pool, a sauna, nice locker rooms, tennis courts, an outdoor basketball court, a ping pong table, pool table, and air hockey table. There’s also a children’s playground on the grounds, and sun decks with lounge chairs. The Sports Center is also home to a cardio room, exercise room holding daily classes, and the spa. The center is open early and stays open late, making it the place families gather before the day’s activities and after.

Spa:

The Running Y spa is small, but friendly and of high quality. It lacks a large relaxation room area (though does have a small one), and shares the locker room with the pool, so you don’t feel truly transported into a calming environment until you’re in the treatment rooms, but once there, you’re certainly taken care of. Guests can enjoy massage services, facials, pedicures, manicures, and waxing services, plus there’s a hair salon with stylist. I opted for a much-needed pedicure and manicure after days on the road hiking, biking, and swimming, and thoroughly enjoyed my time with Stephanie: she was a great source of information on the resort and area, plus simply great company.

Dining:

The Ruddy Duck is located just off the lobby of the Lodge at the Running Y, and serves breakfast and dinner in a warm, casual environment. The views onto the golf course are lovely, and deck seating in summer allows families to stay out-of-doors at dinnertime to continue watching for swooping eagles and other wildlife.Kids eat free off the kids’ menu at the Ruddy Duck when dining with an adult and staying at the lodge (part of a larger Holiday Inn Resort program) and the food is excellent. Dinner is on the costly side for a family (thank goodness for the free kids’ meals) but wonderfully prepared: we recommend the salmon and the tri-tip sandwich most. Breakfast is very affordable and delicious, ranging from pancakes and eggs to breakfast burritos and french toast. There’s a full bar in the evenings, and a small store on-property if you need basic supplies.

Nature Programs:

The Running Y is situated in the heart of the Klamath Basin, adjacent to the very large Klamath Lake and many hiking trails and scenic vistas. The ranch plays host to a number of outdoor opportunities throughout the year, including complimentary birding presentations and guided hikes through arrangements with local chapters of the Audabon Society and land trust. During our visit, we were lucky enough to be present for the opening hike of the Skillet Handle trail, which Running Y residents and staff cleared themselves. We watched a birding slideshow at the lodge to better acquaint ourselves with what birds we’d view on the trail, then drove a short distance from the lodge to the trailhead. The trail itself was moderate, and now that we know where it is, we can easily hike it solo on our next visit. To hike the 2 mile Skillet Handle, drive past the pro shop over the top of the hill to the far side of the resort property by the lake. The parking lot is marked. Where the utility road splits, take the single track trail.

Partnership with Roe Outfitters;

For families looking for more outdoor adventure while in the Klamath Basin, The Running Y offers multiple packages with Roe Outfitters. This local outdoor company has been leading trips in the area for 30 years, and owner Darren Roe is a pro in every sense of the word. Roe offers guided fishing trips, river rafting on both the Klamath and the Rogue rivers, and boating on Klamath Lake. We joined Darren Roe for his sunset cruise on the lake, which I told him afterword should be called an ‘adventure cruise’: everything about the excursion was high-energy, fast-paced, and big on fun. His answer was the trademark of any good outdoor operation: the cruise is adapted to suit the guests, and he knew our school-aged boys would love an active experience. He was right. We learned a lot about this unique lake during our cruise, but what the boys remember most: helping to drive the 22 foot jet boat, seeing bald eagles and pelicans, and getting splashed on quick turns.

Date last visited: June 2013

Distance from the interstate: Right off Highway 97 in Klamath Falls, and directly on Highway 140.

Room rates: At the time of our visit, rates for a double bed room were $199.

Directions: The Running Y is located at 5500 Running Y Road. From Bend, take Highway 97 to Highway 140 (toward Medford). From I-5 in California, exit at Medford and take 140.

Disclaimer: we experienced The Lodge at Running Y as guests of the resort, for the purpose of review. This hospitality came with no expectation of a positive review.

South on Dwellable

Summer at Park City Mountain Resort: Mountain Biking trails

June 24, 2013 By Amy Hagstrom

The Canyons Resort in Park City has the only gravity-based mountain biking in Utah. Expert riders will be well challenged on the miles of black diamond-level single track trails and terrain features in the Canyons Bike Park. But that doesn’t mean there isn’t something for everybody. Whether visitors crave the adrenaline rush of lift-served bike park fun or the cardio boost of hilly mountain biking trails, Canyons Resort in Park City have both all summer long…at every level.

We visited at the start of their second full bike park season, and found a full operation under way. Start at Canyon Mtn Rentals, where families can buy Red Pine Gondola tickets for just $10 per person or High Meadow bike park tickets for $30. The difference: the gondola ticket will grant you access to mountain bike trails and single track with uphill and downhill, whereas the bike park ticket will allow you to enjoy chairlift served downhill only trails.

Bike rentals are also available at Canyon Mountain Rentals, of course, for $110 all day, $85 half day. This sounds steep (no pun intended), but these are top rate downhill mountain bikes, and come with a protective gear package. (Gear can be rented separately if that’s all you need.) We rode with a 14-year-old and 12-year-old, and protective arm and leg pads were not available in their sizes. Full face helmets were available, however. After my 14-year-old crashed hard, sending a pedal into his shin, he’d recommend opting for the leg pads even if they’re a bit big.

Note: Bike sizes are on the adult-sized end of the scale. We found bikes that properly fit our kids, but anyone under age 10 may have a hard time. (For this reason, our eight-year-old did not participate.)

The Video Review:

Where to go:

Grab a bike trail map at the base, and head up the Red Pine Gondola. From the Red Pine Lodge, it’s easy to access the bike park with a High Meadow pass, or start on regular mountain bike trails without. Either way, you’ll want to return to Red Pine Lodge for lunch: during the summer months, this quick service option serves favorites from all the winter restaurant venues. The salads in particular are excellent, and the sun deck makes for a great place to compare feats (or injuries).

In the bike park:

If you’re a novice, definitely start with White Rabbit, the easiest course. Progress from there to Flying Salmon, a green beginner trail, then be advised that the next trail up, Wild Mouse, is quite a bit harder. We had been gravity-based biking only once before, and the beginner runs at The Canyons were just right for us.

On the trails:

It’s easy to get on the wrong trail as you navigate the mountain, even though the trails are marked. Disregard the ski run signage, and follow the smaller bike markers. For beginners and intermediates, the popular Mid-Mountain trail is challenging with some fairly steep ups for the first mile. (To access, start at the zip-line hut just above Red Pine Lodge.) Unless you’re an expert, you’re better off skipping the black diamond bike trails (as they are downhill only and can include steep switchbacks and drops. We found ourselves unwittingly on one at one point, and navigated it very slowly (a luxury only possible in non-bike park areas). Even so, we had some falls and injuries. Respect the trails, and follow the advise of the ratings.

For a nice four-mile ride from Red Pine Lodge to the base area, take Mid-Mountain to Ambush (both intermediate). If you miss the corner to Mid-Mountain at the Orange Bubble Express, as we did, you can connect with Richochet (expert, but we navigated it ok) to Short Swing (intermediate, but I crashed hard), to Ambush.

Note: Trust the level ratings of the trails, but know that conditions, such as loose rocks, mud, etc can change. For this reason, an intermediate trail one day may prove more challenging to you than an expert trail. Go slowly when in doubt! Secondly, have your kids ride in front of you: my worst wreck occurred while turning my head to look back to make sure my 12-year-old was behind me!

Single track trails also depart the Red Pine Lodge area the opposite way (west), but deposit riders a good distance from the base area. Plan to ride in the bike park or on mountain single tracks for at least 2-4 hours at the minimum, and all day at the max!

Hours:

The gondola runs 10 am to 5 pm, and the High Meadow chair (servicing the bike park) runs from 10 am to 4:30 pm (staying open late on Wednesdays all summer until 7:30 pm). Rentals are available from 9:30 am, and yes, it will take you the full half-hour to get your gear.

Want to learn about more to do in Park City and The Canyons in summer? Check out our Park City guide!

Disclaimer: Our family was hosted at The Canyons to experience the mountain bike park for the purpose of review.

What to do in Park City in the summer with kids

June 20, 2013 By Amy Hagstrom

Park City, Utah is truly a year-round resort town. It’s one of our Best Ski Town picks, but that doesn’t mean families shouldn’t visit during summer months: on our visit in June 2013, Main Street was bustling, and parking was challenging to find. Restaurants and bars were hopping, and some shops were open late. Summer in Park City offers much more than just town life, however. Read on to learn what to do in Park City in the summer with kids:

1. Mountain biking:

Mountain bike single track trails can be found throughout the Park City area and surrounding mountainsides, but Canyons Resort sports the only gravity-based, lift-accessed bike park. Novices through experts will be challenged here with rollers, jumps, and switchbacks on downhill trails of every level. Bike rentals (and costs) can be found at Canyon Mountain Rentals. Read our full review of mountain biking at Canyons.

2. Hiking and fishing:

At Canyons Resort, well-marked, designated hiking trails take ambitious hikers as high as Ninety-Nine 90 Peak; on the Fantasy Ridge trail (access from Tombstone trail) or beginners can easily trek to Alpine Lake on the Alpine Lake trail. (Paddleboats can also be rented on Alpine Lake, but don’t let the name deceive you: this body of water is more like a large pond. Kids will enjoy seeing the large trout in the waters, however.)

3. Utah Olympic Park activities:

The site of the bobsled, ski jump, and additional winter Olympic sports during the Salt Lake City games, the Utah Olympic Park has lots for non-Olympic hopefuls to do as well. Families can tour the free museum, take a tour of the facilities (which includes the chance to stare down the distance of the ski jump), and watch Olympic training in progress. There’s also three zip lines, a three-level high ropes course, and an alpine slide. Parents can buy experiences a la carte, or give kids access to all three activities for $40…a great deal! In the busiest summer months, expect some wait times, but staff and instructional support staff are very friendly here.

4. Exploring Park City’s Main Street:

Shopping is fun even for the kids in Park City, with ample touristy t-shirt shops to check out, bookstores, and candy stores. Adults will find gallery-quality art and collectables as well. Have dinner at our favorite, Main Street Pizza and Noodle Company, then stop at the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory for ice cream or a caramel apple for dessert.

5. Mini Golf or Disc Golf:

Do both in one day at The Canyons: mini golf is located at the base and open from 10 am to 5 pm in summer, and disc golf is located at mid-mountain, starting at the Red Pine Lodge. Get tickets to either in the base area, and plan to wear sunscreen for either high mountain outdoor activity!

Wondering where to stay in Park City? Check out our reviews of Hyatt Escala, Westgate Park City, and The Grand Summit, all of which offer great outdoor pools and on-site recreation.

Central Oregon golf resort pick: The Lodge at Eagle Crest, a Holiday Inn Resort

June 19, 2013 By Amy Hagstrom

Forget what you thought you knew about the Holiday Inn brand. Holiday Inn Resort has reinvented the name with properties like the Lodge at Eagle Crest in Eagle Crest Resort, which serves as a great home base for families who enjoy both golf and other outdoor activities.

There are no shortage of golf resorts in Central Oregon. We’ve been to most of them, and they certainly all have high standards and individual strengths. Eagle Crest Resort‘s strength lies in its casual, family-friendly vibe and competitive pricing. It’s a very large resort (comprising mostly of vacation rentals and private homes), but no matter where you go, you’re greeted with a smile from staff and residents alike. Located in Redmond, Eagle Crest is only minutes from Bend, where families can river raft and mountain bike in summer and ski in winter. And if you’re a golfing family, you’ll be in heaven with three 18-hole courses on-site.

When we arrived on a typically sunny day in June, we certainly noticed the three 18 hole golf courses first: golf is king here. However, we almost immediately learned that there’s much more to Eagle Crest than chasing little white ball around in the grass (is it clear my kids are the golfers in the family, not me?).

Eagle Crest Recreation:

Bring your bikes! Eagle Crest is divided into two main areas: Resort and Ridge. And it’s large…very large. We like to park our car and leave it, so having bikes meant we could ride to the sports centers (more on that later) and dining. If you can’t bring bikes, they can be rented at the Resort Sports Center by the hour or day, and there are many great bike paths throughout. We like the long loop skirting the whole property, which dips in and out of high desert scrub area and residential neighborhoods and fairways. If you’re up for it, mountain bikes can be rented, and single track trails can be accessed not far from property, right off Cline Falls Road.

Bike rentals start at $8/hour for kids’ bikes to $20/hour for specialty bikes, and yes, your kids will want to try these. They have surrey bikes for two, plus high intensity trikes and fun scooters. There are regular cruiser bikes as well, and tag-alongs and trailers. Our kids most enjoyed trying the novelty of Longe Boards, which are little stand-up paddle boards for the pavement. Don’t rent these specialty items for longer than 1 hour: they are simply too hard to pedal for much longer, though they are fun. Rent regular bikes for the main trails!

In addition to biking, there are no fewer than three sports and recreation centers in the resort. The Resort Sports Center has an outdoor pool and hot tub, tennis and racquetball courts, and ample bike rentals (for the extra fee), and the Ridge Sports Center on the opposite side of the resort offers the only indoor pool, indoor basketball court, and full spa. The third center–Westview–is located well away from the others near the stables, and includes a children’s spray park and outdoor pool. All centers have exercise rooms and classes.

Horseback riding at Ikiutan Stables is one of the most enjoyable resort riding experiences we’ve tried. We loved that our guide listened to our description of our ability level and let us trot our horses and have more freedom than usual. Our hour ride took us across high desert without a house in sight. When I learned that Ikiutan is owned by the same ranglers as at neighboring Brasada Resort, I wasn’t surprised; we had a fabulous ride there as well. At $50 a person for a 1 hour ride, prices are on par with other area resorts, and definitely worth the expense. Pony rides are available for young kids, though kids as young as five are welcome on regular group rides.

Eagle Crest Golf:

You don’t have to be a golfer to enjoy Eagle Crest, though it certainly helps. As mentioned, the resort is very casual and friendly, and this extends to the courses. Kids are welcome, and nine holes are available to play instead of 18 on at least one course. We had a great nine hole experience at the Ridge course (even on a crowded day in June): the course was challenging but accessible…the kids did not feel frustrated, even though it was clear this was no kiddie course.

A great way to get started is a visit to the putting course. 18 well-designed holes on the course include sand traps, water hazards, and beautiful landscaping. It looks just like a little version of the real thing, and kids can practice chipping and putting. The course took us about 1.5 hours, and was a highlight for the kids. In fact, Calvin kept asking if ‘we could make one of these in our backyard’. No way: it’s way too sophisticated! The putting course is affordable too: only $6 for kids and $10 for adults. Our crew all thought it was much better than a miniature golf course.

Lodging:

As mentioned, the Lodge at Eagle Crest is a Holiday Inn Resort. Rooms are standard, but very well appointed. Beds are very comfortable with ample pillows and new duvets. Rooms include a mini fridge, and suites with kitchens are available. For our family of five, we had a standard room adjoining with a one-bedroom suite, which was perfect for preparing meals and spreading out. Lodging guests can access the sports centers with day passes. (There is also an outdoor pool and hot tub, as well as playground, right at the lodge, and kids eat dinner and breakfast free at Aerie when staying with an adult.)

Dining:

Dining is a bit limited at Eagle Crest, likely due to how many homes and vacation homes are on property (reducing need for multiple restaurants). Bring food and cook in your kitchen! Alternatively, we ate most our meals at Aerie, located in the lodge lobby. This small casual service restaurant has good basic meals (think sandwiches, salads, pizzas, omelets and waffles) during breakfast and dinner hours. A few seats are available outside on the patio overlooking the Resort course. Kids eat free off the kids’ menu here if you’re staying in the lodge, which is a great deal, but be advised that kids’ meal portions are fairly small. Older kids will probably want to eat off the adult menu. Equally casual dining is found at the Ridge course, and for finer dining, Niblick and Greene’s serves steak, seafood, and pasta.

Spa:

The Ridge Sports Center houses the only spa, which is small but reasonably priced. I loved the convenience of having it in the rec center too: I was able to drop the kids off in the pool with Grandma while I enjoyed a 90-minute relaxation massage. The massage was heavenly, or at least I think it was…I may have fallen asleep at one point! The spa is low on frills like infused water and calming ambiance, but high on actual value: the service was great and the rate was the best I’ve seen in a long time. I definitely recommend taking advantage of this while at Eagle Crest.

Room rates:

At the time of our visit, standard lodge rooms started at $144 per night. Vacation rentals are also available, and are undoubtedly the better deal if staying for a full week.

Distance from the Interstate:

Only 15 minutes from Highway 97 in Bend.

Directions:

The lodge is located at 1522 Cline Falls Road in Redmond. From Bend, take Highway 20 West toward Sisters. Follow this approximately five miles to Tumalo, where you will take a right on Cline Falls Road (also called Cook Avenue). Follow this for approximately nine miles to the resort entrance.

Disclaimer: We were guests of Eagle Crest for the purpose of review.

Eagle Crest on Dwellable

Oregon golf resort vacations for kids

June 7, 2013 By Amy Hagstrom

Oregon is a wonderful state in which to golf with your kids. The climate is moderate, the scenery is breathtaking, and while the prices are climbing, the crowds are still low. Families can golf at the following Oregon golf resort properties in a leisurely manner, without worrying about slowing down any other guest’s game. Plus, each golf resort below is a full-scale family vacation property, with swimming, hiking, mountain biking, playgrounds, and kid-friendly dining to keep everyone entertained while not on the links.

Brasada Ranch, Powell Butte, OR: We love the remote setting of Brasada, where families stay in luxury cottages along the fairways (try to spot the wild rabbits who come out at night and at early morning to eat the tender grass!). Brasada Canyons is a beautiful course under blue skies during 300+ days of the year. Plus, kid-friendly tee-off areas make the game more fun for little ones. Enjoy a complimentary golf cart and use of a large practice facility. When you’re not golfing, take a horseback ride or swim at Brasada.

Sunriver Resort, Sunriver, OR: With four full golf courses (including championship courses) and plenty of wide-open Central Oregon vistas, golfers can spread out at Sunriver. Plus, kids play for only $10 at Caldera Links, which is a great place to start out after hitting a bucket of balls. Instead of staying in a hotel room or condo, opt for a Sunriver vacation home as a base for family hiking and biking during your off-time. Take a kayak tour from Wanderlust Tours in nearby Bend, or tour breweries on an adults-only trip.

Club Pronghorn, Bend, OR: Once a private resort for club homeowners, Pronghorn is now open to traveling families. The two award-winning courses (one of which is a Fazio) may be tough for new golfers to tackle, but the Troon Golf Academy is the place to bring kids. Ours got a private lesson including video analysis to help the see what they needed to work on. Kids will also love swimming in the Pronghorn pools and participating in the excellent kids’ club, which includes off-site exploration and on-site themed activities.

Resort at the Mountain, Welches, OR: Families will love the mountain air at Mt. Hood’s Resort at the Mountain, where kids can golf with assurance that they are more than welcome! Family golf is offered Memorial Day through Labor Day from 3-5 pm weekdays, during which families pay only $30 per foursome. Nearby, Government Camp and Mt. Hood offer mountain biking and hiking, and parents can take turns at the spa.

This post written in conjunction with a partnership with VacationRoost.

A stay at Central Oregon’s Kah-Nee-Ta Resort and Spa

June 3, 2013 By Amy Hagstrom

Located on the Warm Springs reservation (home of the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs) in the high desert of Central Oregon, Kah-Nee-Ta Resort and Spa offers a blend of tribal culture and family fun. This is not a luxury resort, but rather a family-friendly getaway that delivers on the simple pleasures of sunny skies, hot springs-fed swimming, outdoor recreation, and camping. There’s lodging for every budget at Kah-Nee-Ta, and varied vacation experiences can be had. Families can opt to simply play the days away in the sunshine, or, with the inclusion of an excellent museum, tribal dances, and seasonal tribal events, the culture of the Warm Springs, Wasco, and Paiute people can be felt here.

We opted for a combination of both playtime and cultural education when we visited on a spring weekend in May. (Central Oregon is known for their 300+ days of sunshine, but we landed one of the few rainy ones…clearly drew the short straw.) Even so, we spent hours at a time swimming in the hot-springs fed pool, hiked several on-site trails, golfed, enjoyed a spa treatment, and tasted authentically cooked salmon…all in two days. Had we more time, we could have rented kayaks, taken a whitewater rafting tour, or ridden bikes around the resort. Families can certainly make Kah-Nee-Ta a day trip from Portland or Bend, but an overnight is well-justified, especially during the warmer summer months when camping is most comfortable.

On-site recreation and activities:

The pool: The biggest draw at Kah-Nee-Ta is the hot springs-fed pool system. The Village Pool includes what amounts to three pools in one: a shallow end with small slide, room for inflatables and water sprays, a middle pool into which the larger slides feed, and a very large deep end. Adjacent are a kiddie pool and two hot tubs (one of which is adults-only). Hot springs water is piped into all pools, and while the resort varies the temperature by season, it’s decidedly warm. On our cool May visit, jumping into the main pool felt like jumping into a warm tub. The water is so comfortable, in fact, that we swam for hours without getting out. The two larger tube slides are several stories high (if not higher) and have a height restriction of 48″ and up. Note: guests of Kah-Nee-Ta receive Village pool passes for the length of their stay, but this does not include access to the slides. Slide passes are $4 extra. This fact is a negative in our book: it felt like nickel-and-diming resort guests. Our advice: buy slide passes for the kids, but skip them for yourselves.

Horseback riding: The Kah-Nee-Ta stables are adjacent to the Village, and offer trail rides multiple times per day. We opted for a one hour ride, which we enjoyed with one guide and one assistant. The stables are owned by a local tribal family, and their horses are broken mustangs from the region (fun fact: wild horses still roam here). Our ride took us along the Kah-Nee-Ta trail system along the bluffs overlooking the resort and surrounding plateaus. The experience was more casual than most resort trail riding tours, but priced very reasonably.

Golf: The Kah-Nee-Ta 18-hole golf course is well-maintained and challenging (without being impossible for families). The course is visually appealing, and even on a busy weekend, it was not crowded. We rented a cart and played just the back nine for an afternoon activity.

Hiking trails: Kah-Nee-Ta maintains a series of three trails starting from the property (grab a color-coded trail map when you check in), which guests can hike. If up for adventure, an unmarked but worn trail from the road across from the Village takes hikers up to a large cave in the nearby bluff. We accessed the cave from the bluff overhead during a longer hike, but it can be more easily accessed directly from below as described.

Spa Wanapine: The Village spa is the place to slip away from the family for a massage or treatment. While not as posh as high-end resort spas, it’s certain relaxing, quiet, and comfortable. Unique to Kah-Nee-Ta is the addition of a 20 minute mineral soak with treatment (for a fee). Guests are led pre-treatment to a private jacuzzi tub filled with hot mineral water from the adjacent hot springs. (Despite loving hot water, I did cool mine down considerably.) 20 minutes proved enough time to soak before treatment.

Museum at Warm Springs: On the way in or out of Kah-Nee-Ta if traveling through Madras and Bend (and only 11 miles out of your way if traveling to and from Portland), the Museum at Warm Springs is a must-do. This award-winning museum takes visitors through the history of the tribes at Warm Springs, from early days to present day. Most interesting for kids are the videos and explanations behind tribal dances still danced today, and the hands-on displays within the museum, including a place to play with hoops used in the dances. Most interesting for adults may be the history of how three distinct Native American tribes came to be located together at the reservation at Warm Springs, and the history of the museum itself, which was built with intertribal cooperation and great grassroots effort nearby 20 years ago.

Casino: Yes, there is a casino associated with the resort; however, it’s located 11 miles away on Highway 26. Because we are not casino-goers, and actually dislike casinos, this was a plus in our book. However, the casino used to be on-site, and website advertising still lists it as such. If you’re planning to patronize the casino, be advised.

Lodging options:

Kah-Nee-Ta is divided into two distinct sections 1/2 mile apart, so pay attention to which you book. The Village is where the kid-centric action is based. The Village rooms, teepees, and RV sites are located here, along with the larger Village pool and water slides, miniature golf course, basketball and volleyball courts, snack bar, store, and spa. The Lodge overlooks the Village from up the highway, and includes tennis courts, the golf course, an additional spa, the only on-site finer dining, and a smaller Lodge Pool (open to Lodge guests only). Where to stay? This depends on what you’re looking for, but a few things to note: 1. due to the RV sites being located at the far end of the Village and the motel-style Village rooms sitting back from the teepee area, we did not find it to be very noisy or overly crowded (on a somewhat busy May weekend) 2. the Village pool and miniature golf course open as late as 10 am, whereas the lodge pool is open by 8 am, so if you have kids who get up early, it may be nice to have the earlier-opening pool at your disposal.

Village rooms: These motel-style rooms are spacious, can include kitchens in some units (we got a Murphy Village Queen with kitchenette adjoined to a standard double queen room for our family of five), and have large enclosed decks/balconies. They are located against the base of the hill within easy walking distance of all Village recreation. While we were perfectly comfortable in our Village rooms during spring, we’d recommend camping during the warmer summer months for a more economical option. (For what you get, Village rooms are overpriced.) Tip: if you want the comfort of a room but don’t want to reserve more than one per night, bring camping pads and sleeping bags and set the kids up outside on the patio…it’s big enough for 2-3 people!

Teepees: Teepees book up fast, so reserve early in summer months! These canvas teepees are large, have a concrete floor, and include an indoor cooking/fireplace space. Families bring their own bedding, mattresses, and other camping gear. Teepees are set fairly close together (not as much room as with traditional camping sites) and are adjacent to the pool.

RV camping: RV camping is furthest out, but still in walking distance of all Village fun. There are 51 sites in grassy, shaded areas.

Lodge rooms: Located in the lodge, lodge rooms vary from standard rooms to suites with kitchens.

Dining options:

If teepee camping, RV camping, or staying in kitchen-equipped Village rooms, families will largely want to bring their own food to cook. Do your grocery shopping before you arrive, but note that necessities can be bought at the store next to the pool. The counter-service cafe adjacent to the Village Pool serves burgers, salads, hot dogs, and fries for around $8 per plate. The food is good, and there are BBQ pits and picnic tables in the Village area for additional picnicking. The Lodge offers sit-down dining at Chinook NW Grille, open seasonally. If your visit coincides with one of Kah-Nee-Ta’s Salmon Bakes, it’s well worth the $20 ticket price. Arrive early to watch the salmon cooked in the traditional way outside (at the Lodge), then stay for a full buffet and tribal dancing. We learned more about drum circles and the various tribal dances here than at any other time during our stay or before. The dancing team and drumming circle take the time to educate and include the audience.

Room rates:

At the time of our visit, Village double rooms cost $225 per night on weekends, and $155 on weeknights. Teepees started at $69, and RV sites $49. Standard lodge rooms started at $149 on weeknights.

Directions:

Kah-Nee-Ta is located at 6823 Highway 8 on the Warm Springs reservation in Central Oregon. From Portland, travel I-5 to I-84 to Hwy 8. From Bend, take Highway 97 to Highway 138 through Madras to South Warm Springs. Turn right at the Kah-Nee-Tah sign.

Disclaimer: We experienced Kah-Nee-Ta as guests of the resort, for the purpose of review. While appreciated, this generosity came with no expectation of a positive review.