family travel - Pitstops for Kids

How to visit Knossos Crete

October 25, 2018 By Amy Hagstrom

Knossos Crete, one of the most important archeological sites of ancient Greece and the one-time capital of Minoan Crete, is conveniently located just outside Heraklion. You will fight for room between crowds from bus tours here, but if you go early, you should be able to beat the heat and the worst of the lines. You can hire a guide right on-site, or you can opt for an audio guide, when available. You’ll want one or the other to make heads or tails of this sprawling palace ruins, the home of the most important of Crete’s kings: King Menos, son of Zeus and Europa.

This marks the spot of the center of Minoan civilization, and should be a must do on any trip to Crete. You’ll want to devote half a day to the site and the museum (more on that in a moment). Knossos’ heyday lasted a whopping two thousand years, until the 5th century AD. The first excavation of the site was conducted in 1878 by Minos Kalokerinos of Herakleion. This was followed by the long-term excavations 1900-1913 and 1922-1930) of the Englishman Sir Arthur Evans, who uncovered virtually the entire palace.

The palace has extensive buildings, workshops, and even an advanced water and sewage system. You can see the remains of a maze of rooms, clay pipes snaking through the ground, an innovative early air-conditioning system, and the oldest road in Europe, at the end of which animal sacrifices were once performed. The ancient theater hosted religious ceremonies, and reconstructions of frescos adorn the walls of the king and queen’s quarters. You can see the king’s actual wooden throne (though be warned, the line can get long, so don’t save this for last) and look out at the expanse of olive trees and countryside.

After seeing the ruins, you’ll want to see the rest of the actual artifacts excavated from the inside (aside from the throne which remains at the site). The Heraklion Archaeological Museum is located about 15 minutes away by car, and is regarded as one of Europe”s most important museums.

The most important collection is the treasures of Minoan civilization, which includes jugs, jewelry, frescos, and religious and everyday objects from Knossos. The address is Xanthoudidou 2, 71202 Heraklion.

You can find street-side dining (sit-down or to-go) in the square adjacent to the museum, and some souvenir-quality shopping.

Want to know the most epic place to stay on Crete, for a luxury vacation? Read on!

Greece history tour: Visiting Delphi with kids

October 22, 2018 By Amy Hagstrom

Located approximately 2.5 hours’ drive from Athens, Delphi is like another world…a world tucked up in the mountains (yes, mountains!) of the northwest interior. According to mythology, Delphi is called ‘the navel of the world’, and it really does feel like the center of humanity while you’re visiting.

The sanctuary of Delphi, with its most famous oracle, is made even more mysterious and majestic by its stunning scenery. Literally hugging a mountainside, the ruins of Delphi feel otherworldly. Visiting, I can see why artists and creators draw inspiration from it. Side note: did you know that one of the settings for the new Assassin’s Creed Odyssey is set here? The game creators studied the topography and history of Delphi extensively.

The story behind Dephi revolves around Apollo. During pre-history, the site was sacred to Mother Earth and was guarded by the terrible serpent Python, who was later killed by Apollo. Apollo’s sanctuary was built here by Cretans and dates back to the Neolithic period (4000 BC). People experiencing life problems from financial woes to health issues pilgrimaged here to consult the oracle (have their fortunes told) and find answers and balance in this proclaimed ‘center’. They first passed through the marketplace at the base of the slope, where (conveniently) they could buy the tokens and offerings they needed before entering the structure dedicated to Apollo.

As you make your way up just like the pilgrims, the views just get more and more spectacular, and you can see the valley below and even the port and sea. There’s a stadium with a track at the very top (worth the hike) and far below, you can glimpse the remains of the gymnasium and other training facilities of the athletes who came here to compete. It seems that Delphi was part sacred and part festival during its time.

Planning your trip to Delphi:

Get there early, before the sun is at its peak because the site is very exposed and you will get sunburned if you’re not careful. Bring plenty of water, too and allow for time in the small museum after touring the ruins. Make sure your guide, if you opt to have one, is licensed.

You can do Delphi in a day as we did, on one long day trip from Athens (2.5 hours each way, through very pretty countryside), but I recommend staying over at least one night and perhaps two. You can always hire a car with an international drivers license; Greece is easy to drive in. The town of Delphi is just beyond the archeological site, and offers quaint hotels and restaurant with amazing views where they sprawl from the hillsides. The narrow streets are lively with people and there’s plenty of shopping to be had.

You could also stay about 10 minutes back, at the ski town of Arachova. Yes, I said ski town. This region of Greece is situated at 800 meters above sea level, and they do get snow. Even in the off-season, however, Arachova is arguably the cuter of the two towns, with even narrower cobbled streets and upscale shops.

How to stay healthy while traveling with the family

September 6, 2018 By Amy Hagstrom

Traveling can be an exciting adventure, especially when you get to share it with family. Flying or driving to a new city, having new experiences, and getting to detach from your regular routine are things most people can look forward to when travel is in their future. If you have stress in your typical day to day life, sometimes travel is the only way to really get away to de-stress.

On the flip side, traveling isn’t always so nice for our routines when it comes to staying healthy. When you leave your house, you might leave your regimented life behind and regret it when you return home. Traveling with family brings its own types of stress that are different from your “normal stress,” and it can be handled. Incorporating these healthy traveling tips are similar to managing your health with a super busy schedule.

Keep Some Routine

It’s easy to let routine items slip to the wayside while you’re traveling, but it’s a good idea to keep some of your routines in place, so you don’t experience “travel shock” when you return home.

For example, if you drink coffee every morning to get you going, that shouldn’t become foreign just because you’re traveling. Most lodging has a coffee maker in the room, or you can find a coffee place nearby to grab a cup of joe. Along with giving you your morning jolt, the caffeine in coffee can help your bowel movements stay regular. If you take pre-workout supplements, stay on your routine.

Visit a Local Grocery Store

While you’re traveling, there is no excuse not to find fresh snacks, especially if that’s what your body is used to on a regular basis. It’s just as simple to find fresh fruits and veggies even at gas stations these days as it is to grab a sodium-packed bag of chips off the shelf.

If you’re staying somewhere for a few days, there is likely a grocery store that sells fresh produce and other snacks that will keep you in good health. If your accommodations have a refrigerator that is accessible to you, grab some produce from the local supermarket for snacking in the room or on-the-go. You can stock up for your entire stay with one trip to the store.

If you’re worried about spending extra money on airport food on a layover or as you road trip, pack some pre-made snacks in your suitcase or cooler. This is great for babies and picky eaters. If you’re flying, check the Transportation Security Administration’s website for what foods are allowed through security. If you’re driving, pretty much anything is allowed, but be cautious of states that don’t allow items like fresh fruits across their borders.

Supplements and Water

Supplements are gaining popularity as easy ways to get your daily dose of certain nutrients you might not get in your regular diet. If you’re one of these people, you should absolutely take enough on your travels to keep your health in check. You can’t always count on restaurants to use fresh ingredients that with no preservatives, so your family’s salt intake may spike while you’re traveling. You may consider adding a probiotic to the mix while you’re traveling to maintain your gut health. For your budget-friendly, yet equally nutrient-rich superfood, learn more here in Amazing Grass Green Superfood review.

Also, ensure your family is staying adequately hydrated. Traveling for long periods of time can disturb the level of hydration you usually experience. Whether you’re flying for 2 hours, 12 hours, or trapped in a car for the day, your body will suffer some dehydration. This doesn’t mean you need to consume crazy amounts of water to cause numerous bathroom breaks.

Keep Moving

Unless your travel adventure includes hiking or other activities that keep your family active, consider incorporating a short movement session that includes the whole family. Whether it’s time in the pool swimming laps, maybe disguised as races for kids, or pulling up a yoga video on your iPad, get some movement in each day for at least 30 minutes.

If you’re a member of a national gym, ask if your membership includes admittance to gyms in the area you’ll be visiting or if you can get a guest pass. You can also check out any public fitness groups to get your heart rate up for a bit. Of course, you can always utilize the hotel gym if one is offered. Even if you’re walking a lot each day, you’ll be able to get some weight training in if that’s what you’re used to.

Good Night’s Sleep

Even though traveling is usually a limited time, your sleep is crucial and should not be sacrificed. It’s tempting to pack your day full of activities and sites but consider how it will affect your family’s sleep schedule. Getting quality sleep will keep your mood and mental health in check to ensure each portion of your travels is enjoyed to the fullest.

If you have younger children, you endanger their regular sleep routine by putting them to bed later or waking them up earlier than usual. You might even look at how you can incorporate their usual nap time to give them the rest they’re used to and give you a break.

Grown-up getaway: Ashland Hills Hotel

September 3, 2018 By Amy Hagstrom

Now that school has started, this is a great time to get away with your partner to toast another great summer. Autumn travel has the advantages of providing less crowded hotels and restaurants, and off-season hotel deals are the norm. Recently, my husband and I enjoyed a getaway to Ashland, Oregon for a romantic, yet still adventurous, stay at Ashland Hills Hotel.

For us, this getaway was a staycation: Ashland is our hometown. But this small Southern Oregon town is full of character–and more importantly, great entertainment venues and dining options–making it an ideal grown-up getaway for anyone within driving distance.

You won’t lack for quality lodging options in Ashland, ranging from quaint B&Bs to luxury escapes. For our most recent getaway, we tried Ashland Hills Hotel, which hits upon a perfect middle ground. This elegant property used to be nothing special until bought by the same folks who run several top-notch Rogue Valley hotels, including one of my favorites, the historic Ashland Springs Hotel. Knowing this boosted my confidence that we’d be in good hands at Ashland Hills Hotel, and we certainly were!

The hotel is located on the south side of Ashland, placing it on the opposite side of downtown but adjacent to some of the area’s best hiking and outdoor recreation. From this location, it’s easy to get to Emigrant Lake, Mt. Ashland, and Crater Lake, and you’re still only about five minutes by car from downtown Ashland.

The renovated lobby is spacious, airy, and calming, and our king bed room overlooking the pool was also generously sized. We had the usual amenities, such as coffee and tea service, and a mini-fridge, plus there are additional on-site amenities that really up the value, such as tennis courts and free bikes to use. Free WiFi and parking was a nice touch as well, both of which I no longer assume will be granted at higher-end hotels. The entire feel of Ashland Hills Hotel is what I’d call ‘gently retro’. It’s not over-the-top, but the retro furnishings, colors, and woodwork are tasteful and appealing.

The continental breakfast set out on the Mezzzanine is standard…nothing amazing here, but a good value for a free breakfast and in a nice setting away from the lobby with plenty of seating.

What to do in Ashland:

Early fall is a great time to visit Ashland. The weather is still warm, which means couples can take full advantage of the many hiking and biking trails in and near the city limits, SUP or kayak on Emigrant Lake, or book a whitewater rafting trip. The downtown sector of Ashland is entirely pedestrian-friendly, with interesting shops and eateries lining Ashland Street and Main and the downtown square.

Walk through Lithia Park: this downtown park is vibrant in fall, and even in September, before the leaves change color, it’s a sanctuary of leafy green goodness. Walk among the ponds, and be sure to venture further up the park past the children’s playground to see the many acres beyond the lawns and formal gardens.

Hike or bike the White Rabbit: This network of trails and single track snake through the hills overlooking Ashland, and are accessible at the end of Ashland Loop Road or Park Street. Lots of signage within this hiking area ensures you won’t get lost (just stay on trails to avoid poison oak).

Take in an Oregon Shakespeare Festival production: Ashland is famous for its OSF, and tickets are often discounted after school starts. Take in a show (Shakespeare or otherwise) in the outdoor theater before the season is over. Note that many other smaller theaters churn out good productions in and around Ashland, too. Consider looking into what’s playing at the Caberet in Ashland or the Craterian in Medford.

Go wine tasting: The Rogue Valley boosts over 30 wineries, many of them award-winning. Venture north and drive along the Applegate Wine Trail or the Upper Rogue Wine Trail, or try some local Ashland area wineries like Weisinger, Bella Fiore, or Pebblestone.

Dine anywhere downtown: Seriously, you can’t go wrong. Our favorite dining options on the square or downtown include Amuse or Larks (fine dining), Standing Stone (brew pub), Liquid Assets (wine bar), Smithfields (locally sourced) or Brickroom (killer cocktails), and Sesame (Asian fusion). For brunch, look no further than Morning Glory.

Indulge at Waterstone Spa: Waterstone is part of the hotel group that runs several top-notch hotels in the area, including Ashland Hills Hotel, which means it’s easy to combine a stay with a treatment here. We opted for foot soaks for a quick but refreshing service following a short hike in the area as part of Ashland Hills Hotel’s Wild Pacific Crest Trail package.

Walk along part of the PCT: Speaking of which, the PCT runs right past Ashland near the Mt. Ashland recreation area and Pilot Rock. This is a great area to take a day hike, even if you won’t be trekking the trail from start to finish. We like to hike a few miles when we can, accessing the trail from the Mt. Ashland access road off I-5.

As we disclose whenever applicable, our stay at Ashland Hills Hotel was complimentary, for the purpose of review. All dining and activities in Ashland were at our expense.

Flying tips with kids and babies

May 23, 2018 By Amy Hagstrom

The travel season is upon us, and if you’ve delayed that family vacay because you’re worried about travel with children and in particular, flying with kids, fear not! You’ve got this! Here are our top flying tips with kids:

No matter how savvy a traveler you are, the rules are different once you’re trying to book a flight (usually to save money) and travel enjoyably with kids in tow. Here’s how to get from Point A to Point B without misery, and maybe even have a little fun!

Booking Tips With Kids

Naturally, when you book airline tickets for family travel, you expect to sit together. Unfortunately, this is no longer guaranteed, or even the norm in some cases. To ensure you sit together, start by booking early and selecting seats at booking. This is the most obvious and certain way to sit together on the plane.

Next, check your reservation before departure to make sure your seat reservation hasn’t changed. I know, right? But they do that to you sometimes. If there’s a problem, call to talk directly to an agent. Explain your situation calmly and politely, and ask the agent not if something can be done, but what can be done. The nicer you are, the more the agent will want to help you. This may not be fair, but it’s human nature.

Always beware of booking seats on third-party sites. Sometimes, there’s a disconnect between third-party booking sites and airline sites. For instance, if you book your reservation on Travelocity and select seats on their website, this information may not make it to the airline agent.

For this reason, booking directly from the airline is best when flying with children. Sometimes the lowest fare wins, we know, but for the reason above, book through the airline when possible. Desk agents can see who you booked through, and can offer more upgrades or help to “loyal” customers. You’ll be better off in the case of delays or cancellations if you book directly, too.

If you can’t book seats together at booking, book all aisle or all window seats. These seats are much better “commodities” than middle seats when you need to trade with other passengers later. Another option: elect to book seats with a middle “buffer.” Book the aisle and the window, leaving the middle. This middle seat will be among the last seats booked, increasing your chances of having an empty middle seat to spread out in. However, if it does fill up, the decent thing to do as a fellow human being is to offer that person the aisle.

To help you out, use a seat alert at a site like SeatGuru or ExpertFlyer. These sites show interior maps of almost all airplanes, allowing you to see the best seating options at a glance. Unless desperate, do not pay at the gate for premium seats. Some airlines use this tactic to increase revenue, but in almost all cases, seating can be arranged once onboard, if you have young children.

Finally, if you still can’t resolve your seating arrangement, you’ll have to ask fellow passengers to switch (see how below).

Seating Tips: In The Trenches

It should be acknowledged that paying passengers should never have to resort to begging strangers to have mercy on them and “allow” them to sit next to their own children. However, it often comes to that. Here’s how to go about it for the best results:

Start by going to your assigned seat and waiting there. No one will appreciate your cluttering the aisle, least of all the onboard flight attendants.
Politely let the attendants know what you need. Their main objective is to get the flight in the air on time, so they’ll almost always help you in your quest.
Start with the passengers in your direct vicinity, politely explaining the situation (pointing out your helpless child rows away). Have something decent to trade if possible. Note that the passenger sitting directly next to your young child is the most likely candidate to trade.
If the first person you ask refuses (it’s their right to do so), just keep asking. Someone will cave, if only to end the awkward begging session.
If you have older kids or teens, do NOT expect anyone to trade. You can ask – we have – and get lucky, but after a polite ask, drop it. We were once subjected to a huge fit by an adult passenger insisting on sitting next to his girlfriend on a two-hour flight. Don’t be that guy.

Car Seat and Stroller Hacks

If you’re bringing your car seat on board, make sure it’s FAA-approved (there will be a sticker on the seat). Board early if it’s an option. It’s not easy to maneuver a car seat down that narrow aisle! Don’t be surprised if a flight attendant comes by to check your installation.

If you don’t need your car seat, car seats can be checked at the gate or at check-in, both free of charge. If your seat has wheels or attaches to a stroller or frame, by all means, bring it directly to the gate. Gate-checking is the only way to guarantee your seat actually goes on your plane and will be waiting for you at arrival.

Bringing a stroller? Like car seats, strollers can be gate-checked or checked upon arrival at the airport free of charge. If you gate check, it will be waiting for you in the jetway upon arrival (you’ll need to wait for it for a few minutes).

Tip: Don’t want to hassle with baby gear in transit? Rent strollers, car seats, and even high chairs and cribs at the arrival terminal or in your destination city.

Airplane Etiquette With Kids

Kids, just like everyone else, become citizens of that small metal tube we call an airplane the minute they board. Make sure they learn how to be good citizens. The best way to teach them is by example, of course. Seeing Mom and Dad acting politely and generously toward fellow passengers goes a long way. Here are a few additional tips to make your life easier on board (as well as everyone else’s).

GET MORE FLYING ETIQUETTE TIPS!

Get rid of as much gear as you can before boarding. Parents of young kids have enough on their hands – they don’t need to fight for overhead space, too. If you’re headed to your final destination, consider volunteering to gate-check your carry-on bags, stroller, and car seat (if you’re not using it on the flight).

If you’ve done tip 1, don’t board too early. Ignore the offer to board first with young kids. Who wants to sit on the restrictive plane longer than necessary? Now, if you have carry-on bags to stow in overhead bins, by all means DO board first.

Help kids avoid kicking the seat back in front of them by sitting cross-legged. This seems to be the number one complaint of solo and adult passengers on planes in regard to children, but sometimes, toddlers’ legs are just the right (or wrong) length. Yes, you can and should teach kids not to purposely kick the seat, but for those ages during which it’s unavoidable, this is a solution.

Bring appropriate entertainment. You’ll want to carry on toys with magnetic strips and few pieces. That collection of cars or Legos Junior loves? This is not the best use of them. If your young child is going to watch media, but sure to use child-size headphones and splitters to ensure no one else has to hear cartoons.

GET LONG HAUL FLIGHT TIPS!

Source: Fix.com

Plan your next family vacation in Ecuador

November 16, 2017 By Amy Hagstrom

Is it a good idea to go to South America with kids? No – it’s a great idea! Ecuador, a geographically diverse little equatorial country on the Pacific coast of Northwestern South America, is an ideal destination for a family vacation. With its temperate climate, fun activities, breathtaking wildlife, and access to the Andes, the Amazon, the Galapagos Islands, and historical colonial cities, Ecuador offers sights, sounds, and experiences that kids will remember for the rest of their lives.

Family vacation in Ecuador: Start in the highlands

The whole country of Ecuador is about the size of the American state of Colorado, but it offers beaches, mountains, jungles, and the world-famous Galapagos Islands, where visitors can see evolution in action. It’s a good idea to begin your Ecuador vacation in the highlands, because altitude changes between the islands or coast and the mountains can be hard on the body over the course of a short trip. That’s not to say it can’t be done, of course; and you could just as easily begin your trip on the islands and at the coast and work your way inward toward the mountains and the jungle, depending on what works best for your family.

The colonial city of Quito is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-see. A few days in Quito will give you the chance to tour the historic Old City, as well as explore some of the surrounding sights. Two hours north of Quito on the Pan-American Highway, you’ll find the town of Otavalo, with its famous indigenous market, scenic hiking and biking, and boutique hotels operated out of colonial-era haciendas. Otavalo offers the country’s best shopping, with plenty of locally-made goods, including things kids will love, like dolls and painted wooden toys, jewelry, fluffy toy llamas, musical instruments, and CDs of local music.

If you have older kids or teens that enjoy outdoor adventuring, don’t miss Baños, a town in the Ecuador highlands famous for its thermal baths. Other activities in Baños include bungee jumping, rafting, kayaking, and biking. From Baños, venture into the Amazon, where you can take a day trip into the wilderness or stay at one of the area’s eco-lodges located smack-dab in the middle of the jungle.

If you have time, travel the 300 miles south of Quito to visit Cuenca. Another UNESCO World Heritage site, Cuenca is another colonial city that is quieter and cleaner than Quito. It offers numerous cultural attractions, including the Museo Pumapungo and the Old Cathedral of Cuenca. Outdoorsy types should visit the nearby El Cajas National Park, known for its cloud forest trails and home to giant hummingbirds and Andean Condors.

Don’t miss the Galapagos

No trip to Ecuador would be complete without a trip to the Galapagos Islands. Strict local laws have managed to keep the Galapagos Islands relatively pristine, and the lack of local predators mean that Galapagos wildlife has no fear of humans. The Galapagos Islands are located 600 miles from the mainland, so you’ll have to catch a flight, and experienced Ecuador travelers recommend flying between islands, too, if you can afford it; transportation by boat is available, but it’s slow and the boats often break down, resulting in longer trips. If you can’t afford to fly between islands, boat travel is still feasible; book locally with companies who can give you information about the condition of specific boats, and add about 50 percent to the stated travel time to account for disruptions.

Make some time to visit each of the three main islands, Santa Cruz, San Cristobel, and Isabela, so that you get a chance to spot as much wildlife as possible. Santa Cruz is the best island to see the Galapagos tortoise, but San Cristobal offers many opportunities to watch sea lions. Go snorkeling off San Cristobal to swim with Galapagos sharks and sea turtles. Isabella sports stretches of pristine beach inhabited only by Galapagos penguins, blue-footed boobies, and marine iguanas; snorkeling here is great, as well.

Traveling with kids is always intimidating, but a vacation to Ecuador could end up being your family’s best vacation ever. One thing’s for sure – a family vacation to Ecuador is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that you and your kids will remember fondly together for years to come.

Photo credit: John Solaro

Three northwest backpacking routes for families

July 17, 2017 By Amy Hagstrom

Parents with young children: you absolutely can backpack with kids! Our family has found success by choosing backpacking routes that are short on distance but big on rewards, whether that be in the form of a fun lake or river to swim in, dramatic scenery, or both. The following three northwest backpacking routes for families deliver.

Before you read on, check out our tips for backpacking with kids!

Northern California’s Trinity Alps:

Just south of dramatic Mt. Shasta at the top of Northern California, the Shasta-Trinity National Forest offers some of the best backpacking for families. While word is now getting out, the Trinity Alps used to be very uncrowded, while still offering up vistas on par with the Sierra Nevada.

For families, we recommend the 5.2 mile route from Swift Creek Trailhead to Granite Lake. From the Swift Creek Trailhead of the Trinity Alps, families hike for one mile before crossing Swift Creek at a large bridge and taking the Granite Lake Trail. After that, it’s 4.2 miles of a pretty strenuous uphill hike. Take your time, knowing that you don’t have to hike too far but will be rewarded with one of the most stunning alpine lakes you could ask for.

Make a home base at Granite Lake, and spend an extra day day-hiking up above it (the terrain turns to sub-alpine granite with great views). If you want to make a full loop of it, you can continue to Horseshoe Lake, reconnecting with the original Swift Creek Trail to follow the creek back to the parking lot. We have always been content to simply play at Granite Lake, however.

How to get to the trailhead: Swift Creek Trailhead is at the end of Swift Creek Road, accessed from Highway 3. (From I-5, grab Highway 3 at Yreka.) You’ll pass a national forest ranger station near Fort Jones, where you can grab your backcountry permit.

On the Granite Lake Trail

Southern Oregon’s Sky Lakes Wilderness:

The Sky Lakes are beloved to our family. They’re right in our backyard, so we’ve logged a lot of hours on trails here. The great thing about Sky Lakes is the flexibility; there are multiple options for making larger or shorter loops between its many small alpine lakes. The elevation is lower than many backpacking routes, so the nights will remain warmer (but you’ll also experience more mosquitoes, so aim to visit in August or September).

The Sky Lakes are generally split between Lower Sky Lakes Basin and Upper Sky Lakes Basin. You can see it all in a 12 to 14 miles loop, but we recommend staying on the Upper Sky Lakes Basin end to see Trapper Lake and Lake Margurette. You can camp at either, and experience the other in a day hike, should you wish. Start at Cold Springs Trailhead, and when the trail splits, follow the upper toward Natasha and Margurette lakes. The entire hike is only about 3.2 miles, and isn’t too steep. If you’re ambitious, you can also access the Pacific Crest Trail above Trapper, and walk along it for a while.

How to get to the trailhead: Cold Springs Trailhead is located off Highway 140. From Medford (and I-5), take Highway 62 to Highway 140. At mile marker 41, you’ll take gravel road FR 3651 at the Cold Spring Trailhead sign, and follow it 10 miles to the parking lot.

Setting up camp

Central Oregon’s Jefferson Park:

Very few wilderness areas are as breathtakingly beautiful as Jefferson Park. And yes, it is indeed a veritable ‘park’ of alpine creeks, lakes, trickling waterfalls, and towering peaks. You have to earn it though: the route in from either side takes some time for families. We recommend the slightly shorter route from Whitewater Trailhead (the other option is Breitenbush Trailhead further north).

You’ll go about four miles before reaching Whitewater Creek, with stunning views of Mt. Jefferson all the while. After the creek, you’ll join the PCT temporarily as you enter the park. Once in, you’ll see many trail options leading a short distance to multiple small lakes. We suggest Russell Lake or Scout Lake. Take fishing poles, and the fish seem to really bite here. You can rejoin the PCT for a long day hike should you wish, or can simply set up camp and enjoy the lake. No matter which lake you pick in the park, the round-trip mileage will be about the same: 11 miles or so.

How to get to the trailhead: Take exit 253 off I-5 in Salem. Drive 60 miles east on North Santiam Highway 22. Between mileposts 60 and 61 (10 miles beyond Detroit), turn left on Whitewater Road 2243. This gravel road forks in about 100 yards, keep right. Follow this road 7.5 miles where it dead-ends at a large parking area.

Jefferson peak

I think it’s time for us to discover some shorter backpacking routes in Washington state next! While we have experience in this region, it’s for longer hikes for more experienced backpackers. If you know of great routes for families in Washington, please leave them in the comments. And always remember to call the local ranger station before your trip for weather and trail closure information, as well as any detailed driving directions you may need.

Top family-friendly resort towns in the U.S.

June 19, 2017 By Amy Hagstrom

The United States is a hugely diverse country with hundreds of thousands of unique locations spread out across a wide space. Choosing an American vacation destination is difficult in any situation, but especially so with a family in tow. With every additional trip taker comes another person’s enjoyment and happiness to consider. Selecting where to travel will require, to some extent, successfully finding a place where everyone can have a great time

Top family-friendly resort towns:

While it’s true you can only please everyone some of the time, some people every time, but never everyone all the time, there are American vacation destinations which are more likely to keep everyone happier than others. Here are the most family-friendly destinations in the US and some basic tips on planning a trip there:

Palm Springs, California

Once the resort town where Hollywood A-listers went to escape the pressures of Tinseltown, Palm Springs now caters to a more middle class demographic without skimping on the luxuries provided to the likes of Clark Gable and Frank Sinatra. Not to mention the addition of numerous family-friendly experiences including hiking trails, water park, record-breaking aerial tramway, and hot air balloon rides.

However, the signature experience for families staying in Palm Springs is booking several days in one of the city’s iconic resort options. Those choosing a Palm Springs family resort can easily find one with amenities and activities for just about any age group. Whether it’s laying by the pool, swinging golf clubs, or learning to pilot drones, the daytime fun culminates with pristine accommodations overlooking said pool or the surrounding beauty of California.

Breckenridge, Colorado

While Aspen will always be the iconic American ski resort destination in terms of premium luxury, Breckenridge, Colorado exists as an accessible alternative for working families. Located at the base of the Rocky Mountains, Breckenridge is the ideal ski resort town for families interested in snow-based adventure, time spent in a spa on the outer deck, and all the other trappings of the idyllic alpine experience.

In addition to these signature elements of a cold climate resort, Breckenridge offers a variety of things to do in the warmer months. These include zip lining, fly fishing, historical walking tours, escape the room, and much more.

Branson, Missouri

Bart Simpson once quoted his father Homer as saying Branson, Missouri is what Las Vegas would be like “if it were run by Ned Flanders.” For readers unfamiliar with the animated series wondering what the joke is, Ned Flanders is the very wholesome, very Christian, and very family-friendly neighbor to the Simpsons. While poking fun at the sentimental and old-timey atmosphere of the Ozark resort town, it’s an accurate description which in no way knocks this iconic American family vacation destination.

In addition to watching performers presumed to have retired decades ago, Branson offers a number of exciting, unique, and ultimately unforgettable experiences for the whole family. These include the amusements and thrills of Silver Dollar City, the Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum, and Hannah’s Maze of Mirrors.

Orlando, Florida

Where do we begin? 50 years ago, Orlando was little more than a swampy, sleepy town for retirees looking to get away from it all after a lifetime of hard work. Then Walt Disney showed up and decided to build the most famous family friendly resort destination in the entire world. The rest, as they say, is history.

Yet there’s more to do in Orlando besides visiting Minnie and Mickey, though a family can easily spend an entire week on Walt Disney World grounds and never get bored. Additional Orlando-based attractions include Universal Studios Florida, Gatorland, Medieval Times, and the Kennedy Space Center.

From coast to coast, the United States is in no short supply of family-friendly vacation destinations. If the challenge revolves around finding a place to please everyone under one roof, resort towns are the way to go. Among them, the aforementioned are proven to be the best.

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How to get your kids to sleep in hotel rooms

May 24, 2017 By Amy Hagstrom

Vacation time means travel time. And travel time can mean less sleep…for everyone in the family. When we’re lucky, we’ve booked a vacation home, suite, or apartment where everyone can spread out, but there are plenty of times when we all find ourselves in a standard hotel room. But, how to get the kids sleeping in noisy places like hotel rooms?

Nine ways to help get your kids sleep in hotel rooms!

Bring one of their comfort items:

Kids have a hard time adjusting to the luxuries of a room other than their own. Therefore, it is always a good idea to carry one of their favorite comfort items with you. This could be a toy, blanket, pillow, or food item. Anything which makes them feel at home and sleep even while traveling.

Older kids like privacy:

The current generation does not tolerate someone invading in their space. At home, kids mostly have a separate room from an early age. Hence, they lose their habit of sleeping with their parents. Sometimes, it can be worth it to either book a separate hotel room for them or build a make-shift wall in the room between the beds using sofas, chair and curtains.

Upgrade to a suite:

Sometimes this is not possible, but when it is, go for it! If the room is spacious and comfortable, they won’t have a hard time sleeping. The high-end bedding and large, feather-filled mattresses with soft pillows will surely captivate them in a deep slumber.

Read to them before bedtime:

Maintaining routine as much as possible is key! Reading to kids before bed-time is a tried and tested remedy, one that our parents’ parents even used when putting them to sleep. So, always carry your kid’s favorite story books on the trip and if they have a hard time sleeping, read it to them in a hushed, sleepy tone to induce the sleepy effect.

Exhaust them during the day so they are tired at night:

This seems to work wonders for some kids. Mine, not so much. But theoretically, when kids don’t have any energy left at night, they are likely to sleep immediately. Therefore, it is good to engage them in various activities during the day that could exhaust them enough to go to deep sleep early.

Use white noise machines:

This is my #1 tip! You may not be aware of the surroundings of your hotel. Is it situated at a peaceful place or a noisy street? So, it is always good to carry a white noise app or a travel-sized machine that asks sounds and helps the kids to sleep in noisy places.

Maintain room temperature:

Kids generally have a hard time sleeping in extreme temperatures; too hot or too hold and they will be up all night. So, maintain optimum temperature at night-time to prevent any interruptions in sleep. Sometimes, we turn off the in-room heating/AC unit entirely, to avoid the loud noises it makes.

Use a vaporizer for snoring problems:

A snoring problem may not only deprive a kid from a sound sleep, but will also affect the sleep of others around. Hence, make sure to carry a vaporizer for immediate relief.

Turn on a night lamp:

Most kids have a hard time sleeping in complete darkness. The hotel rooms are either too bright or too dark (if you switch off the lights). Hence, it would be smart to carry a small night lamp or just the right kind of lighting kids are used at home. Look for a small camping lantern that uses LED bulbs.

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St. Louis with kids: Visiting the free St. Louis Zoo

May 17, 2017 By Amy Hagstrom

Voted the #1 free attraction in the United States in 2016, the St. Louis Zoo is a “must-see” for anyone visiting the area. With no admission costs, well-kept grounds, beautiful sculptures and water fixtures, and the large collection of animals, this is a great place for cost-conscious families to visit. Did we mention it’s free?

What you get for your free admission:

The zoo is housed in historic Forest Park, the site of the 1904 World’s Fair, and in fact you can still walk through the 1904 Flight Cage, which was built for the fair and is now home to many bird species.

The park is largely accessible to strollers and wheelchairs, and is divided into areas. The Red Rocks, home of the big cats as well as the zebras and giraffes, is a perennial favorite. On Historic Hill you’ll find primates, some of the indoor exhibits, and the 1904 Flight Cage. The Wild’s headliners are the polar bear, the penguin house, and the gorillas—the gorilla habitat is particularly impressive. Here, too, is the coming-soon Grizzly Ridge. Discovery Corner is the home of the children’s zoo (more on that below). At the Lakeside Crossing you’ll find Sea Lion Sound, where glassed-in tunnels allow you to see these animals play underwater. The River’s Edge offers visitors a mostly shady and beautifully landscaped walk through large habitats for cheetahs, elephants, and more. (Don’t miss Hippo Landing—another chance to see an animal underwater!)

Extra perks:

Although the majority of the park is free, the zoo does offer some extras for a fee:

The Children’s Zoo ($4) has an indoor education center where kids can interact with guinea pigs as well as see some animals not on display in the main zoo. Goat brushing is always a fun activity for kids, too, and there’s a fabulous play area, including a plexiglass tunnel slide through the otter habitat, and an outdoor theater where more educational programming is offered. If there are programs going on, you can easily spend a couple of hours in this area alone.
What kid doesn’t like a zoo train ($7.95 for a full day)? The St. Louis Zoo is fairly hilly in places—pushing a stroller up the Historic Hill to get to the Red Rocks area, for instance, can be quite a workout, so the train is a good investment, especially with young children.
The Conservation Carousel ($3) is operated for free during the first hour of zoo operation every day.
Stingray petting pool ($4).
The Sea Lion show ($4) is a perennial favorite.
The 4D theater ($5) runs short programs continuously.

Food/Shopping at the St. Louis Zoo:

At the many kiosks and concession stands, families will find all the favorites, from popcorn to funnel cake and ice cream. We ate lunch at the Lakeside Cafe, which offers outdoor seating beside the swans’ home as well as plentiful indoor seating. They have an impressive system of composting and recycling which patrons are invited (but not forced) to make use of in disposing of their trash. Silverware is compostable, and lids and straws are not provided at all. As we were going meatless that day, we ordered a kids’ PB&J meal and two quesadillas, one with cheese only and one with vegetables. The quesadillas were very big and very tasty.
Several of the newer attractions, including the penguin house, the River’s Edge, and the bear exhibit, have dedicated gift shops, and kiosks around the zoo supplement the primary gift shops, so there are plenty of options for bringing home souvenirs.

Hours/Admission:

During the school year, the St. Louis Zoo is open daily 9-5; from Memorial Day to Labor Day, hours are Monday through Thursday 8-5 and Friday through Sunday 8 – 7. Admission is free, but the train, the sea lion show, the carousel and some other activities do require an admission fee. See details here. If you live close enough to visit even 2-3 times over the course of a year, it might be worth purchasing a family membership, since that provides passes for some of the most popular “extras” kids want. If you only plan to visit once, consider an adventure pass. For $12.95 per person, this gives you access to the top “extras.”

Location/Parking:

The St. Louis Zoo is located at the south edge of Forest Park, along I-64 in St. Louis, Missouri. On-site parking costs $15, but if you’re willing to walk, you can often find street parking for free along Forest Park’s roadways. And here’s a fun tidbit: if you have an electric car, the zoo offers two recharging stations in the South parking lot—for free!

The St. Louis zoo is free, but our family enjoyed adventure passes courtesy of Explore St. Louis in exchange for an honest review.