Oregon - Pitstops for Kids

Oregon Farm stay with kids: Willow Witt Ranch

September 16, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

A farm stay with kids is an amazing way to experience a destination! Not only are farm stays often affordable, they allow families the opportunity to meet locals, learn about sustainable agriculture, and have plenty of space to play and roam. Many farm stays are located within easy driving distance of wonderful family travel destinations.

This summer, we’ve had the opportunity to experience two farm stays, each on opposite ends of the continent. Right after Memorial Day Weekend at the start of summer, we stayed a night at Southern Oregon’s Willow Witt Ranch. Willow Witt is located only 30 minutes from Ashland, Oregon, perfectly situated for any family visiting the area for its river rafting, mountain lakes, or Oregon Shakespeare Festival. Tip: use Farm Stay US to find kid-friendly farm stays on your travel route.

Willow Witt sits on a high mountain meadow in the heart of the Siskiyou Mountains, and is a working high altitude goat, pig, and chicken farm. Willow Witt’s two owners are passionate about being stewards of the land they’re lucky enough to live and work on, and their diligence is evident in the care of their animals, their dedication to organic, free-range, and pasture-fed ranching, and their friendly, hands-on approach.

Staying at Willow Witt:

Families have their pick between farmhouse accommodations at Willow Witt’s Farmhouse Studio (sleeping six), the three-bedroom Meadow House (sleeping 10), or campground accommodations a short walking trail away. The indoor accommodations both include full kitchens, and farm-fresh breakfast. The campground offers tent camping sites or walled canvas tents. The camping sites are rustic; while some spaces are cleared, others are not well marked. We likened the campground to backpacking spaces. Willow Witt lists 12 sites, which is accurate, though some are very close together; I would venture the campground would serve 3-4 separate groups well, or one large group.

Willow Witt’s walled tents are nearly ‘glamping’ status: they come furnished with beds, linens, and other furniture, and a wood stove. All camping families (walled or tent) have the use of an amazing outdoor kitchen (run with propane gas) and outdoor wood stove. Onsite bathrooms with full plumbing (flush toilets, sinks, and showers) are clean, light, and comfortable, and for the more adventurous type, outdoor showers are also onsite.

There’s no electricity at the camping area, but the Willow Witt owners have thoughtfully outfitted the bathrooms and kitchen with lanterns, and the kitchen is stocked with dishes, cups, cooking utensils, and pots and pans. Several tables and chairs sit outside the covered kitchen area. The campground is located just up the hill from the ranch site, approximately a quarter mile from the barn. We enjoyed the Willow Witt ranch dogs keeping us company at the campground.

Farm activities and service projects:

We were lucky enough to experience Willow Witt with my son’s 3rd grade class. Willow Witt is known for their educational projects, and during our stay, we were able to help owner Suzanne with a wetlands project. We helped protect the watershed by working in the meandering creeks in the ranch meadows for a few hours. We also experienced an extensive farm tour. Families visiting the farm solo are also given a tour, and can opt to help with morning chores as available.

Three loop trails depart and return to Willow Witt, and additional hiking is a short drive away at nearby Grizzly Peak. Families can drive into Ashland in 30 minutes, or to boat or swim at Emigrant Lake in 20 minutes. Serious bird watchers come from all over for the birding at Willow Witt, and mountain biking is available nearby as well.

If you want to have time to enjoy the peacefulness of the ranch as well as enjoy local activities, I suggest booking at least a three night stay. If you’re staying a shorter period of time, plan to plant yourself at the ranch and take full advantage of your immediate surroundings!

Willow Witt as a working ranch:

Willow Witt does have a ranch store, where their organic, sustainable, and cruelty-free CSA meat and dairy products are sold. They are also represented weekly at the Ashland and Medford farmers markets. Willow Witt also books packing excursions in the mountains, using their own pack goats.

Rates:

Camping starts at $40 per night, which is an amazing bargain when you consider the use of the outdoor kitchen and clean bathrooms. Walled tents are $125 per night (May through October) and sleep up to four. The studio and farmhouse rent for $180 and $225, respectively, in the high season. They are available year round. The value for all accommodations is astounding.

Directions:

Willow Witt is located off Oregon’s Dead Indian Memorial Road by Grizzly Peak. From Ashland, visitors take Highway 66 to Dead Indian Memorial to Shale City Road. Do not use GPS, but rather follow these directions. GPS will lead you astray!

Five back to school getaways to take right now!

August 26, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

September, October and November are the perfect months for short family back to school getaways. Kids (and parents!) are ready for a break from the busy back-to-school schedule, and hotels and resorts are less crowded and keen to offer fall discounts. Where to go to combine fun autumn activities with discounted lodging? We’ve checked out almost a dozen family trip ideas in the past few months in order to pass along our favorites school year getaways to you. Below is a round up of our top five getaway ideas across the country for a fall family getaway:

1. Omni Mount Washington, Bretton Woods, New Hampshire:

Not only do Omni Resorts go all-out for kids, but the Omni Mount Washington embraces Halloween with its very own ghost: be on the lookout for the widowed bride of the resort’s original owner, said to haunt the hotel. Supernatural happenings aside, the Mount Washington location offers outdoor activities perfect for fall. Families can hike or bike right from the resort, or take a day trip to explore the Mt. Washington Cog Railway or Crawford Notch State Park. Then introduce the kids to the fun of ‘leaf peeping’ along New Hampshire’s winding highways.

2. Northstar California, North Lake Tahoe, CA:

Beat the skiers to Tahoe with a trip to Northstar before the snow flies. (You might even get the added bonus of an early snowfall.) There’s plenty for families to do at Northstar in the fall, from biking and hiking to riding the gondola for views. Roller skating is available on the ice rink, and the village shops are sporting pre-season sales. We love the discounts to be found in the village condos or the homes for rent near the golf course. The beauty of Lake Tahoe is only minutes away, offering more hiking even if it’s too cold for a plunge.

3. House on Metolius, Sisters, Oregon:

House on Metolius is a fly fishing and hiking oasis tucked into the woods outside of Camp Sherman, OR (approximately 45 minutes from Bend). Families can choose between a cabin or lodge room stay, and explore this 200 acre property full of meadows, mountains, and wildlife. The Metolius River cuts right through the resort, allowing for no-hassle fishing and play. Hiking is nearby, as is kayaking on Suttle Lake. Mostly though, families will enjoy cozying up by the fireplace for some downtime.

4. WilloughVale Inn and Cottages, Lake Willoughby, Vermont:

This lake-side resort also offers both cabins and lodge rooms, and complimentary canoe rentals every day. Kids will enjoy the nearby Montshire Museum of Science, and parents will feel relaxed in the gorgeous fall foliage as they stop with the family at the many farmer’s markets and roadside stands. Fall discounts are available, and the dining ranges from gourmet farm-to-table to family diner style.

5. Blue Iguana Inn, Ojai CA:

It may not exactly feel like fall in Ojai, a desert retreat 90 minutes from downtown Los Angeles, but your family will feel as though you’ve gotten away from it all. Kids will love the lush garden grounds of the Blue Iguana, and the novelty of taking a dip in the outdoor pool and hot tub even in November. Parents will enjoy the art scene in town (there are plenty of galleries to haunt) and kids will be occupied by the large playground and many area hikes through botanical gardens. Visit a working olive oil factory or just hang out at the inn between meals in award-winning restaurants that still hold kid-appeal.

Photo credit: KimberlyKV.

Family farm stays: a review of Leaping Lamb Farm

June 20, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

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

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

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

A day in the life of Leaping Lamb:

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

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

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

The Leaping Lamb Experience:

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

Lodging at Leaping Lamb:

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

Dining options:

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

What to bring:

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

The Pit Stops for Kids Leaping Lamb Video:

Rates:

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

Directions:

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

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

Three west coast trip must-visit destinations for families

April 13, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

The west coast of the USA is one of the most stunning road trips in the world. It is a trip that offers so much: ferry rides in the Puget Sound, hikes through the redwood forests in Oregon, wine-tasting in Napa Valley, the windy roads of San Francisco, beach lounging on Cannon Beach, the bright lights of Las Vegas, and amazing coastal drives for hours. Below are three west coast trip must-visits!

1. San Francisco

San Francisco is a hub of excitement and the cultural, commercial and financial heart of Northern California. The city is the 13th most populated in the U.S. but has the second-highest population density in the county, with only New York being busier. The city is famous for its restaurants and some of the best chefs in the country are lucky enough to call this home. San Francisco’s most famous waterfront community is at Fisherman’s Wharf. You can experience some fantastic food and enjoy some of the best dinings the world has to offer. San Francisco is very proud of its cable car system. It is the last manually operated system in the world today. At its peak, you would find 23 cable car lines in the city, but today we have just three left. Nearly all of the people that ride the cars today are tourists looking to try something different when in town.

2. Scottsdale

Scottsdale, Arizona, has a population of over 200,000 and boasts more than 300 days of annual sunshine. Over seven million people visit Scottsdale each year, as it has a reputation for being a posh resort town where the rich and famous come to play and shop. But there is plenty to do in this city besides lounging at exquisite resorts and eating at fine restaurants. In fact, Scottsdale is loaded with museums and attractions that are both easily accessible and free, suiting the budget traveler’s itinerary and wallet. Scottsdale Homes for Sale are selling at a record rate. Single-family rental homes have grown up to 30% within the last three years. Almost all the housing demand in the US in recent years has been filled by single-family rental units.

3. Oregon

It doesn’t matter what part of Oregon you’re visiting, you’re bound to find something interesting to explore. After all, the state is home to acres of untamed evergreen, glacial lakes, and a rugged, windswept coastline. But visitors exploring the Beaver State will also uncover decidedly hip cities, rural cideries, and sprawling vineyards. Whether you’re touring Oregon for the first time or you’re a regular, repeat visitor, these are nine points of interest in Oregon that prove there’s more to the state than Portland.

Spring getaway: Sunriver Resort for families

March 11, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

We’ve stayed at Oregon’s Sunriver Resort more than a few times, finding it to be the most convenient and kid-friendly lodging option for nearby Mt. Bachelor Ski Resort. Sunriver offers both traditional hotel rooms and home rentals throughout their sprawling property, however, during our most recent visit, we decided to try something new: the Sunriver Resort Lodge Village.

The Lodge Village is located adjacent to the lodge building in the heart of Sunriver, and their suites offer the best of both worlds: families get the space of a home rental and the amenities of a lodge stay. Our Lodge Village suite was the size of a small condo: we had a kitchenette (includes everything but an oven), a large dining area, a living area with fireplace and large patio, and an upstairs loft with king-sized bed and bathroom. The living room couch pulled out to be a queen bed, allowing this suite to sleep four. For a little more room, we opted to combine the suite with a single connecting guest room for a total of two full bedrooms (plus the couch).

With a suite comes a ski locker, parking space, nice entry area with plenty of space for coats, boots, and gear, and lawn space outside for kids to play on. Every section of the Lodge Village has a community hot tub (very large) pool (in summer) and all Lodge Village guests have full use of the SHARC pool complex (more on that later). Guests 14 and older can also access the Sage Springs Club and Spa for a dip in yet another pool. All this with daily maid service!

Date last visited:

March 2014

Distance from the interstate:

Sunriver Resort is located on Highway 97.

Rates:

At the time of our visit, Lodge Village suites started around $129/night. Sunriver runs family vacation deals all year round: be sure to check for seasonal packages.

Amenities:

In addition to the above, Lodge Village guests have access to plenty of dining options throughout the resort, tee times at Sunriver golf courses, bike paths, and kids programming such as Fort Funnigan. There are always events and activities going on for kids: ask for information at check-in, or check online.

When downtime is needed at Sunriver, our kids loved the included entry to SHARC. SHARC is an indoor and outdoor pool and water play complex located on-site. Lodge Village guests get $6 admission (you need to ask for passes at the lodge front desk). In summer, families can float on the lazy river, take rides down the tube slides, and play on splash pads. In winter, the indoor complex includes heated pools and hot tubs with water basketball, fountains, and splash areas.

A note on Lodge Village kitchens: We found our kitchen to be more than just a ‘kitchenette’, with plenty of counter and storage space and a full sink, microwave, and kitchen island. Fridges in the kitchens are not ‘mini-fridge’ sized, but not full-sized either, ditto for the dishwasher. There is a full stove top with four burners, but no oven, so plan accordingly. We found there to be plenty of kitchen utensils, dishes, bowls, and plates; however, not many pots and pans. Overall, the kitchen was very adequate, but it helps to know what you will and won’t find there ahead of time. We wished we had an oven for take-and-bake pizzas, and wished we had a washer and dryer unit.

Directions:

Access Sunriver from Highway 97, approximately 15 miles from Bend OR.

As we disclose whenever applicable, we were guests of Sunriver Resort, for the purpose of sharing our experience in their Lodge Village. All opinions are our own. The above post was written in conjunction with our partnership with VacationRoost.

Mt. Bachelor Ski Resort: winter recreation headquarters of Central Oregon

February 9, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

Families used to the crowds (and prices) at California ski resorts will be in heaven in Central Oregon, where Mt. Bachelor Ski Resort reigns. There are many Mt. Bachelor Ski Resort reviews for a reason! Located above Bend, Oregon (named one of our best ski towns!) along Highway 97, Mt. Bachelor now offers over 4000 skiable acres and 101 runs, with top-of-the-line amenities in multiple on-mountain lodges. While we haven’t experienced the Mt. Bachelor ski and ride school for kids, we can speak to the excellent terrain for all ages and abilities.

Tip: Mt. Bachelor is now a M.A.X. Pass ski resort, which means families can get five days of skiing here with a M.A.X. pass. These passes get you on the slopes 38 other North American ski resorts as well, all for one add-on price. We took our most recent trip to Mt. Bachelor using a M.A.X. Pass.

On busier days, and if you have pre-purchased lift tickets, opt to park at the first parking lot, Sunrise Lodge, and access the lifts directly from there. You’ll avoid the majority of the crowds, and will be in a great location to try out the new (in 2017) Cloudchaser chair, which opens up new terrain. We found the Cloudchaser terrain to be perfect for intermediate skiers and riders, with lots of fun, rolling groomers winding amid the forests. The runs are narrow, but there are lots of places where kids can explore off-piste without worrying about steep drops.

Otherwise, drive to the second parking lot at West Village Lodge for full services and amenities. Here you’ll find ski and board rentals, demos (with a friendly and knowledgeable staff), lift ticket sales, and a full snow sports gear shop. The only locker rentals are in the Mountain Gateway Building, and families will want to grab breakfast (or possibly lunch later) at the adjacent West Village lodge.

From Cloudchaser to Pine Marten, the frontside of Mt. Bachelor offers most of its beginner and intermediate terrain, with a wide variety of runs including terrain parks, moguls, and groomers. The terrain is wide-open here, making visibility easier than on the Outback side, with more tree runs. The Sunrise Lodge is a less-crowded place to break, but the best views are found at the top of the Pine Marten lift at the Pine Marten Lodge. This is also where families access the backside terrain off Outback and Northwest lifts. This region is our family’s favorite part of the mountain, with long, often-powdery black diamond runs. On powder days, advanced skiers and riders will want to traverse around the back of the mountain from the Northwest lift to drop down into seemingly endless trees (you’ll hit the access road back around to Northwest before you’re out-of-bounds.) The top of Mt. Bachelor, accessed by the Summit lift, is open only as wind conditions permit.

Mt. Bachelor is a large and imposing mountain set in the midst of the Central Oregon high desert, and as such, seems to command its own weather system. This may not be a scientific fact, but we find it to be true; always check the weather conditions, because they’re not likely to be the same as what you’re experiencing lower down the mountain at area lodging. Mt. Bachelor doesn’t offer ski-in, ski-out lodging; the closest resort is Seventh Mountain Inn approximately 15 minutes down Century Drive, with multiple other lodging options in Sunriver Resort and Bend.

Mt. Bachelor is well-known as a downhill ski resort, but families pursuing other types of winter snowsports—from snowmobiling to snowshoeing and cross-country skiing—will also find great winter recreation options at Mt. Bachelor. With a large Nordic Ski Center and three Oregon sno parks in close proximity to the resort, all snow-loving families are well taken care of.

Sno parks and free tours:

Within a few miles of Mt. Bachelor Ski Resort on Century Drive, the Wanoga, Swampy Lake, and Vista Butte sno parks all offer warming huts, trails for snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and nordic skiing, and snow play areas. Because Mt. Bachelor is located within Deschutes National Forest, free ranger programs are offered at and near the ski resort. Ranger-led snowshoe tours depart from the ranger station at the parking lot of Mt. Bachelor every weekend in winter at 10 am, and are completely free (including rentals). The tours go on a one mile loop, during which rangers point out local flora and fauna. Ranger programs on skis are also available at 2 pm on weekends from the top of the Pine Martin ski lift (free, but does not include lift ticket).

Tip: Don’t forget to pick up an Oregon sno-park permit before heading up to the mountain; permits are $4 per day (also available by week or season) and are sold at Mt. Bachelor, all area snow sports shops, and the ranger station at the West Village parking lot.

Tubing and sledding:

Mt. Bachelor’s tubing park is one of the best in the state, with multiple lanes and a rope tow to take tubing families up the mountain. It’s located at the base of the West Village lodge area (use the same parking lot). Tubing tickets range from $10-27 (depending on how long you stay) and the day is divided into three tubing sessions. At the base of Century Drive near Sunriver, a community sledding hill also offers fun sledding and tubing, and it’s free (though you’ll need to get to the top of the hill on your own power).

Directions:

All Mt. Bachelor-region snow sports are located along Century Drive, accessed from Highway 97 from Bend.

Photo credit: Amy Whitley and Zach Winters

Glamping on the Oregon coast at Bay Point Landing

October 29, 2020 By Amy Hagstrom

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

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

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

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

Accommodations:

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

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

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

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

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

Tips for luxury Airstream living:

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

Cabin info:

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

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

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

Amenities:

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

The Clubhouse:

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

Outdoor amenities:

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

Costs:

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

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

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

Winter backcountry skiing: a stay with Cascade Huts

January 27, 2020 By Amy Hagstrom

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

If you go:

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

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

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

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

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

Date last visited: February 20, 2012

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

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

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

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

Unique Oregon golf resort: Silvies Valley Ranch

October 17, 2019 By Amy Hagstrom

Located on the Eastern Oregon frontier, Silvies Valley Ranch offers a vacation experience unique to anything I’ve done before. Guests enter the 220 square miles of this working cattle and goat ranch and make their way to the Retreat, Links and Spa…a tucked-away resort in the pines with unparalleled ranch views. Your first stop is at the Gate House, where you’re met by friendly resort staff, charcuterie and drinks, and the chance to surrender your car for the duration; from this moment forward, you’ll be exploring the ranch via your personally-assigned golf cart.

From the comfort of luxury cabin or lodge room accommodations, you can ponder your many options of activities while on-site. Silvies is not a dude ranch, with all-inclusive activities on the ranch, though it feels as isolated as one. And it’s not strictly a golf resort, because guests can explore the ranch grounds, too. It’s an interesting hybrid of both.

Perfect book-reading spot right out front of the cabins.

Dinners are fairly formal affairs with a nightly eight-course pre-set menu prepared by talented chef Damon Jones, eaten at the communal Ranch Table. Families, I’m told, have the option to eat a la carte during the summer season, should they not wish to spend so long at the meal. Definitely enjoy the Ranch Table experience at least once or twice during a stay, however, as this is where Silvies’ local, organic beef and chevon (goat) is featured best.

Before each nightly meal, we loved lingering at the impressively-stocked ranch house bar for a pre-dinner cocktail. The bartending and wait staff were all excellent, and I would challenge any guest to come up with any drink they can’t make.

Note: breakfast and lunch are also offered at the ranch house, as well as lunch at the Hideout, the golf clubhouse. There isn’t any other nearby dining option, due to the remoteness of Silvies, so plan accordingly. Breakfast could easily be made in the room or cabin.

Activities at Silvies:

The main attraction at the Retreat at Silvies is golf. We’re not avid golfers, but we could see at a glance that Silvies’ four courses were different than most. They’re located on a remote and rugged stretch of high desert; you’ll be instantly reminded of Scottish courses, if you’ve been. The courses range from 18 hole to a shorter Par 3 course over 600 acres, and thanks to the remoteness of Silvies’ location, crowds aren’t an issue. Families and beginners are welcome. Every guest we spoke to raved about their golf experience. Best of all, you are offered a ‘goat caddy’ when you golf here: yes, trained goats really do carry your clubs!

During our three-day stay, we wanted to learn a lot about the ranch side of Silvies, so we signed up for a ranch eco-tour. We were picked up in a Razor and escorted around the ranch’s 120,000 acres, learning about the scope of the cattle and goat business, the ranch’s multi-generational history, and the current owners’ plans for the future (the Campbell family has owned it for the last six years). Several historic homesteads are still in residence on the property, so we saw those, as well as cows getting ready to calve, antelope running, deer grazing, and even elk. We learned about the conservation that’s important at Silvies, such as the restoration of the land’s riparian landscape; slowly, the beavers that had been plentiful before the fur trapping industry of the 1800s are returning.

We also went shooting at the ranch’s firing range and ‘goat herding’ with a ranch hand. For the latter, we went out to find one of the three 1000-head goat herds on the property and walked among them for a while, talking to the Peruvian goat herder hired by Silvies and meeting the guard and herding dogs in residence.

Also offered: horseback riding, mountain biking, wagon riding, hiking and fishing. Hiking and biking trails are still limited, with plans to build out this part of the ranch.

Rocking Heart Spa at Silvies:

For us, our spa day was our favorite at Silvies. The spa is located directly across from the cabins and main lodge, and houses a lap pool, climbing wall, and exercise room in addition to spa services. Silvies is still in the process of fine-tuning this space, so hours are not always consistent, we found.

Spa services range from multiple massage offerings to facials and mani-pedis, plus a hair salon. We loved the facials we received, which were a relaxing 120 minutes of pampering. We enjoyed the relaxation room and spa and sauna in each locker room, too. Plan to spend a whole afternoon at the Rocking Heart Spa!

Lodging at Silvies:

We were situated in a two-bedroom luxury cabin, which included a kitchenette with a very well-stocked mini-bar, large ice machine, microwave, Keurig, and plates and cups galore. You also get an entire cupboard of snacks (for purchase) and a stocked wine fridge (with a wine list and prices). We loved the Western decor throughout, the cozy living room space with fireplace and a huge TV, and the spacious bathrooms (one off each bedroom). Best of all, a hot tub outside! Our only wish: we would have loved a porch or patio, though the views out the wide living room windows were amazing.

There are also one-bedroom cabins and cabin rooms, as well as ranch house rooms (which are actually located across the drive from the ranch house. Find rates here.

Getting to Silvies:

This Oregon golf resort really is remote. It’s about 45 minutes from Burns, Oregon, and it’s best to follow the directions on the ranch website; GPS will lead you astray. You’re about 2.5 hours from Bend or Boise, and about 5.5 hours from Medford/Ashland.

Disclosure: we stayed at Silvies as guests of the resort, for the purpose of review. All opinions remain our own.

Roe Outfitters review: Sunset cruise on Klamath Lake

July 8, 2019 By Amy Hagstrom

While visiting the Klamath Basin with your family, absolutely make time for an outdoor adventure trip with Roe Outfitters. Darren Roe and his team are professionals, have been in the business for almost 30 years, and are long-time partners with the Running Y Ranch. Families can book tours directly at the resort (just look for the desk in the lobby) or call Roe Outfitters directly to book a tour.

Roe offers whitewater rafting on the Klamath and Rogue rivers, fly fishing and birding trips, guided hunting trips, and family excursions that can include kayaking, hiking, rafting, birding, or, in our case, jet boating on Klamath Lake.

The Klamath Lake Cruise offered by Roe is described as a ‘sunset cruise’. Sounds stately and relaxing, right? My kids were worried about this…until we got underway and they became engrossed in the thrill of fast jet boating and high-action thrills. When I suggested to owner Darren Roe that he should rename the cruise the ‘adventure cruise’, he gave the answer that, in my opinion, is the signature of a great tour leader: he adapts this cruise to his guests, and knew our kids wanted something high-energy and high-excitement.

He was right: my kids (ages 8-14), were all smiles, their attention on Darren, from the moment they stepped onto the boat and were allowed help drive it. They took turns riding on the bow, getting splashed by spray, and hanging on as the jet boat took crazy-fun turns. In-between the excitement, Darren engaged them with contests for who could spot the first bald eagle (we all lost to our guide), taught us all about the unique properties of the lake (we didn’t know it was the largest west of the Mississippi yet very shallow, or that it produces harvestable algae), and pointed out numerous wildlife.

Upon departing the boat, my kids declared Roe ‘one of the good ones’, and while that doesn’t sound like an over the top endorsement, I assure you it is. My kids take a lot of outdoor trips and tours, and they’re stingy with their compliments. The operators who get their approval offer hands-on learning and active engagement: from the start, Darren Roe asked for the kids’ help, gave them ‘jobs’ on the boat, and knew just how to act with kids…and won them over instantly.

While on vacation, we understand that families sometimes must choose between several tour opportunities, experiencing perhaps only one. If this is the case, save your one for Roe: you’ll get a high return for your money with these guys. We can’t wait to be back to experience their river rafting!

Date last visited:

June 2013

Rates:

$65/adults, $60 for kids 3-10.

Book through:

http://roeoutfitters.com

Directions:

Roe is located at 9349 Highway 97 in Klamath Falls, though if you’re staying at The Running Y Resort, they’ll often be pick you up.

Disclaimer: we experienced the sunset cruise as guests of Roe Outfitters, for the purpose of review. This hospitality came with no expectation of a positive review.