outdoor adventure - Pitstops for Kids

Lake Geneva with kids: What to do in in Lake Geneva Wisconsin

April 29, 2022 By Amy Hagstrom

My introduction to Lake Geneva Wisconsin was with the US Postal Service. Why? Because many of the elegant vacation homes hugging the lakeshore were once only accessible by boat, and some still request mail service by mailboat. Visitors can tag along, joining a Mailboat Tour with Lake Geneva Cruise Lines (for about $27 for adults and $15 for kids) for a perfect overview of the lake and its unique history as a playground for Chicago’s wealthy.

Once onboard, you’ll see why this lake region is the perfect place to escape if you’re a Midwesterner. As a bonus, families can watch ‘mail jumpers’ at work while on the cruise: these young adults and high school kids jump from the side of the mailboat to resident docks and back again, delivering mail while the boat stays in motion. It’s a talent you have to see to believe. Along the way, you’ll gawk at mansions owned by the likes of the Wrigley family, Maytag family and more. Even the boathouses and docks of these mansions are impressive.

After disembarking from your mailboat tour, an array of lakeside activities await. Here’s what else to do in Lake Geneva with kids:

Walk the shore path:

What could be tame of somewhat boring for kids is made fun by the variety of terrain and sights along Lake Geneva’s Shore Path. Running continuously the circumference of Lake Geneva (21+ miles around), the Shore Path takes you past all those mansions you glimpsed from the water, along with hundreds of additional elegant homes and gardens. The path is public all the way around, but as each home is responsible for maintaining their stretch of the path, what you encounter varies greatly. One section might be brick and the next dirt, or you may encounter stepping stones and then pavement.

Families must stay on the path (no playing in millionaires gardens or on their docks) and due to the sometimes rugged terrain, strollers and bikes aren’t a great idea. Several public access points are available to walk a section, including Lake Geneva Public Library, Fontana, Williams Bay and Big Foot Beach State Park. Walk a section and get picked up by the mailboat, or park a car on each end of your section (or just retrace your steps). Kids like seeing what type of path will come next, and parents enjoy taking in the mansions.

Tip: Go to the LakeGeneva.com and download the free Shore Path app. It will give you ideal sections to walk (describing the terrain encountered) as well as history on most of the mansions along the way.

Go to Tristan Crist’s Magic Show:

Maybe you think you don’t like magic shows. Or maybe you think they’re silly or boring. Trust me, you’ll like this one. Everyone in the family will. Tristan Crist is the most talented magician I’ve seen, and I’ve seen them in huge venues everywhere from Miami to Vegas. Tristan’s showmanship is highly entertaining, and his sleight of hand is awesome. His performs in Lake Geneva in order to own his own small theater, and the result is a truly intimate performance. It’s only 60 minutes long, so it works for families with all aged kids.

Zip line and climb with Lake Geneva Canopy Tours:

Lake Geneva Canopy Tours offers eight zip lines, five sky bridges, four spiral staircases built into trees and a 1200 foot long racing zip line. The ropes course is in a separate area, with the usual obstacles and nets. Each ‘side’ of the park starts at $55 admission. I’ve experienced canopy tours and zip lines everywhere from Mexico to Canada, and this one is on par with the best.

Boat on a lake:

Many people don’t realize that the Lake Geneva area actually includes three lakes: Geneva, Como, and Delavan. Geneva is spring-fed, which gives it its crystal-clear quality. However, Como and Delavan are both less crowded and quieter (and I’m told Delavan is the place for fishing). We got on Lake Geneva with Marina Bay Boat Rentals which is very conveniently located in downtown Lake Geneva (by the historic Riviera building). It’s BYO everything when you rent, from food to beverages to ice, but then the lake is yours. We rented a pontoon boat so we could cruise around near the shoreline to do more mansion gawking.

During the time of our visit, pontoon rentals were around $455 for four hours (they also offer two and three-hour rental prices, but four hours gives you time to stop for lunch along the lakeshore, tying up at a dock and perhaps pausing in a bay for some swimming. I did note that on quieter Delavan Lake, the same type of pontoon boat was a little less at $375 for four hours. Both lakes (as well as Como) also offer wave runners, ski boats, and other lake toys.

Ride a scooter:

This is one for families with teens 16 and up (who have drivers’ licenses) or grown-ups on a solo outing. Scooters (like Vespas) can be rented from Scoot Jockeys in Lake Geneva for a very reasonable $59 for two hours (or $69 for three hours). Or, you can join a tour for $109 (Fridays and Saturdays only). If you haven’t ridden a scooter before, don’t worry: the women who instructed us gave us lots of great tips and made sure we knew how to operate and ride our scooters before we left the parking lot.

If you want to embark on your own, Scoot Jockeys has several suggested routes (with maps), but there is some navigating of state highways and downtown traffic to access the best quiet country roads. If you don’t know the area at all, I suggest a tour. I felt much more comfortable with a local leading the way. Once we got out of downtown Lake Geneva, we found gently rolling, gently winding roads to explore. You do have to be comfortable on a Vespa-type vehicle to enjoy this activity, and if you have teens, they do need to be licensed drivers (and not too wild and crazy on these things!).

Rent a paddleboard or kayak:

If you don’t need a motorized means of zipping around the lake, almost all the marina areas around all three lakes offer rentals of SUPs (stand-up paddleboards), kayaks, inflatables and even pedalboards (think of a Stairmaster/surfboard combo). More affordable than renting a boat, adding a few toys to your beach day on the lake can go a long way. Our favorite marina for ‘toy’ rentals was Lake Lawn Resort on Lake Delavan (more on Lake Lawn below) but you’ll find fun toys everywhere.

Where to eat in Lake Geneva:

Popeye’s: Located downtown, this is the place to go for your typical ‘vacation’ food of fried fish, baskets of fries, and burgers.
Oakfire: nearby, Oakfire offers wood-fired pizza in an authentic Naples, Italy method. Their individual 12” pizzas can easily feed two.
Sopra: Our pick for date night if you manage to get an evening out alone without the kids (though certainly kids are welcome). Sopra offers elevated Italian-American cuisine and excellent cocktails in downtown Lake Geneva. Come a bit early and do some window shopping in town.
Pier 290 and Boat House: Located on Lake Geneva, both Pier 290 and Boat House offer boat-in diving (just boat right up to the dock) and lakeside seating. The Boat House is where to go to catch the sunset.
Rushing Waters: This unique dining experience is located on an 80-acre fish farm. Lovingly tended by self-proclaimed ‘fishmonger’ Nell and her team, this sustainable fish farm offers public fishing from one of their ponds. This is a great opportunity to teach kids about food sources as well as give them the chance for near-instant fishing success. How it works: for $9.50 per pound, kids can fish using Rushing Waters’ equipment. The catch will be cleaned and served at a $12.50 (additional) shore lunch, which includes side dishes at their restaurant on-site.

Where to stay at Lake Geneva with kids:

I stayed at Lake Lawn Resort on Delavan (about a 10-minute drive from downtown Lake Geneva). This resort is ready-made for families, with multiple outdoor pools, a large indoor pool complex, two miles of shoreline (with lawns and marinas), a small beach area, the aforementioned marina rental area (with the best prices we saw), golf, mini-golf, a playground area and tennis and basketball courts. There’s a mid-sized spa with reasonable prices, too.

The resort sprawls over the 250 acres (we found that most area resorts are designed similarly), but of note is all the interior hallways and walkways. It’s possible to go almost everywhere within the resort without going outside…a nice perk in the winter or when the wind picks up. There are eight different lodging sections. I stayed in Lakewood, which offers spacious suites (just be sure to ask for a water view, or you’ll be looking at the parking lot) and its own outdoor pool and hot tub. It’s also closest to the marina. The other sections are closer to the restaurants and indoor pool and hot tub, however.

The main restaurant is Frontier (full service) but there’s also a sports bar, a pizza and sandwich counter-service restaurant, and a poolside dining area. Though the aesthetics are dated (with a dark wood ‘North Woods’ type of feel) the grounds are beautifully tended and the lake couldn’t be closer.

If you want to be on Lake Geneva instead, I recommend The Abbey Resort, which also has indoor and outdoor pools, plus a virtual reality gaming room. They’re on a larger marina and harbor area.

Tip: Headed to Lake Geneva without the kids? Without a doubt, stay at The Geneva Inn, https://genevainn.com/ located right on the lake on the Shore Path, offering floor-to-ceiling lake views from their dining room and bar area. We enjoyed a meal here with excellent wine and cocktails.

Disclosure: I experienced Lake Geneva as a guest of the destination, for the purpose of review. All opinions remain my own. Photo credit: Amy Whitley and Walworth County Visitors Bureau.

Where to hike in Breckenridge with kids

October 15, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

Think Breckenridge, Colorado is only a winter ski destination? No way! This mountain town is a great pick for summer and fall travel as well, offering historical significance, museums and culture, great dining, and, our personal favorite, excellent hiking for families.

When families arrive in Breck, they’ll find maps with literally dozens of hiking trails accessible right from town. Many of these hikes will include mining history built in, either the form of signage explaining historical significance or historical structures or mining equipment that remains behind. Here’s where to hike in Breckenridge in multiple categories:

Easy hikes:

Burro Trail: Accessed directly in town, the Burro Trail has a gentle grade (it was literally the trail burros used to haul gear). The first half mile is easy-breezy, perfect for young kids, and then it keeps going for miles, all the way out of town to high elevations. Families can connect to the Spruce Creek Trail and Wheeler Trail further afield.
Sawmill Creek: This 1.5 mile loop starts just below and west of Snowflake Lift, which is close to Four O’Clock Road and Kings Crown Road. It has minimal altitude gain, and there’s plenty of shade along the way. The trail leads up to a beautiful reservoir: bring a picnic lunch!
Reiling Drudge Trail: This trail, located at the top of Reiling Road, connects to several top-notch mountain biking trails. It’s multi-use, but an easy, short hike to the Reiling Drudge. This remnant from the mining era is impressively intact, and shows how this type of mining impacted the environment (you can see the piles of rock and ore still left behind, though the scenery is still very pretty). Historical markers tell hikers more about the site. If you want a longer hike, continue from the drudge trail to the Minnie Mine Trail. Here, you’ll see more plaques and remains of mining buildings.

Kids don’t want to hike? Head to River Walk Park, where kids can wade in the Blue River in summer and fall and play on the playground in all seasons.

Harder hikes:

Mohawk Lakes: This series of alpine lakes can be tackled in an eight mile loop, or families can simply hike to the first few. From the trailhead, it’s just over three miles to Lower Mohawk, which sits in a bowl with Upper Mohawk just out of sight above it. They’re followed by several more lakes along a chain. The path can be steep at times, but the way is broken up by lots to look at: kids will love the historic mining remnants still cluttering the landscape, and snow melt waterfalls such as Continental Falls. Get to the trailhead by heading out Hwy 9 and turning right on Spruce Creek Road. Park at the trailhead 1.2 miles up.
Bakers Tank Loop: While most of this five mile loop trail is intermediate, there are a few climbs to be had. The trail follows an historic railroad line and has Western mountain views. Start at the Bakers Tank Trailhead on Boreas Pass Road. The first three miles are along Boreas Pass Road, heading south.
Black Powder Pass: At 3.4 miles (roundtrip) with an elevation gain, this hike is solidly in the intermediate range. From Boreas Pass Road, go up to the top of Boreas Pass, and take the trail just before the Section House. Families get above the tree line without a long hike, but remember, you’ll be at over 12,000 feet, so take your time. Look for views of the Tenmile Range.

Hardest hike:

Crystal Lakes: Get above the tree line hiking to the Crystal Lakes. These small, high alpine lakes sit at over 11,000 feet, and the way is very steep in places, and mostly exposed. Access these lakes from the Burro Trail or drive partway up Spruce Creek Road or Crystal Lake Road (4×4 driving essential). Look for picas (like small rabbits that make a high pitched call) and mountain goats.

Tip: Want to get a taste of mining history in the area without hiking to it? Head to the Country Boy Mine, where kids can go inside mine shafts and pan for gold. This historical site has very good, though realistic, tours. Young kids may be frightened when the lights are turned off and hydraulic machinery is turned on to stimulate how it would have felt and sounded like in the mine in bygone eras.

Note: No matter where you hike in Breckenridge, you’ll feel the significant elevation. Get tips on dealing with high altitude!

Have you hiked in Breckenridge? Where do you recommend?

Top Arizona parks to explore with your kids

July 13, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

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Top Arizona parks to explore with your kids:

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

Native Cultures

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

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

Relive the Old West

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

The Sonoran Desert

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

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

Kid-Friendly Museums

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

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

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

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

Board a Train

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

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

How to pick a dude ranch for your family trip

April 15, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

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

Step 1: Ask yourself the following questions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Step 2: Narrow down your choices

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

Triangle X Ranch in Moose, Wyoming:

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

Pros:

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

Cons:

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

Three Bars Ranch, Cranbrook, British Columbia:

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

Pros:

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

Cons:

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

Tanque Verde Ranch, Tuscan Arizona:

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

Pros:

dining is amazing
service is outstanding

Cons:

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

Aspen Ridge Resort, Bly Oregon:

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

Pros:

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

Cons:

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

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

Photo credit: Ken Bosna, Amy Whitley

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

March 15, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

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

Desert destinations:

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

Borrego Springs:

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

Death Valley National Park:

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

Scottsdale, Arizona:

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

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

On the way to… destinations:

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

Bowling Green KY:

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

West Georgia:

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

French Lick Springs:

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

Beach destinations:

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

St. John, USVI:

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

Ventura, CA:

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

Zihuatanejo, Mexico:

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

Loreto, Mexico:

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

Ski destinations:

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

June Mountain:

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

Angel Fire:

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

City destinations:

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

Seattle, WA:

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

Tallahassee, Florida:

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

Bonus spring break pick:

The Burren, Ireland:

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

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

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Zion National Park in winter

February 25, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

Before I visited Zion National Park in winter, I pictured the famed slot canyons and rock formations of the park buried in snow, with park amenities shuttered for the season and the adjacent town of Springdale hard to access on wintery roads. I could not have been more wrong. Thanks to it’s low elevation and Southern Utah location near St. George, Zion National Park in winter is completely accessible, and often warmer than you’d think.

As we arrived from a weekend of skiing at Brian Head and Eagle Point (yes, you can ski and hike on the same road trip!), we rolled our windows down as we approached the park from Highway 9. It was a balmy 50 degrees when we entered the artsy, scenic town of Springdale, and inside the park, just enough snow dotted the ground and clung to the red rock to be picturesque but not problematic.

What to do in Zion National Park in winter:

The short answer: pretty much everything you’d do in summer, but without the crowds. We hiked several trails that are usually highly impacted during the warm weather months, encountering only a handful of other people. During the winter, the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive can be done by car; in summer, you must take the shuttle. Most of the hikes that start from points along the drive are open during the winter months, too, which makes Zion National Park your personal playground in December, January, and February.

Hike The Narrows in winter:

Hiking The Narrows was the highlight of our Zion winter trip. While we loved The Narrows in summer, going in winter is an entirely different experience. Start at Zion Outfitter, located at the entrance of the park by the visitor center. These guys can set you up with dry suits, special river shoes, and booties, which you’ll definitely want for the Narrows in winter. For $45/person, you get dry bibs (that go chest high), Adidas HydroLace canyoneering boots, neoprene socks, and a wooden hiking stick. For a little less, you can opt for waist high pants.

Note: you can rent the boots and socks in summer too, which I now realize would work better than the Keens we wore last time!

You can arrange for a guide to go with you in The Narrows, but families can also do it solo, provided you check the weather and conditions first at the visitor center. The Narrows are known for flash floods, which can happen any time of the year. To get to the river, go up Zion Canyon Scenic Drive to the last stop, Temple of Sinawava. You’ll take a paved trail for one mile, which ends at a good entrance to the Virgin River. During our visit, the trail was icy, so go slowly if needed, and be aware of icicles and potential falling ice above you.

Once in the river, make your way at will, sticking to the shallow spots as desired. The entire way up The Narrows to where it splits with Orderville Canyon takes a couple hours (it’s about 3.5 miles), but families can stop anytime; it’s an out-and-back. Take care to keep your upper body dry; water WILL pour into your dry suit from the top of the bib if you go too deep. Otherwise, the dry suit set up kept us very dry and comfortable.

Note: the canyoneering shoes WILL let in water; this is normal, and the reason for the wetsuit-like sock.

The Narrows in winter are truly magical: the snow and ice contrast with the red rock and water with such beauty, you’ll want your camera out at all times. And unlike in summer, when you’re wading through the river with crowds of people, you may have the river to yourself. I found myself completely alone more than once in the canyon.

Additional hikes:

The easy hikes along the scenic drive, including the Grotto Trail and Weeping Rock Trail are usually open in winter, but be aware that they may be icy. Bring extra traction for your hiking boots, like YakTraks, and you should be ok. While we were at Zion, we also did the Canyon Overlook Trail, which is located just past the tunnel within the park (take a right at the ‘Y’). Canyon Overlook offers big views for little effort; the whole hike is less than 1.5 miles, and though fairly strenuous, includes features that will be fun for kids, like stair climbs, overhangs, and wooden planks. Just take care with young kids as there are drop-offs along the trail, though the end overlook does feature a railing.

While we were at Canyon Overlook, a park ranger also recommended Sand Bench trail to us in winter. The Sand Bench Loop starts at the Court of the Patriarchs shuttle stop and is roughly 3.5 miles (round trip). From the shuttle stop, take the hikers’ bridge across the Virgin River. The trail crosses a stream, then continues past a landslide area from the ’90s. You gain elevation of about 500 feet, much lower than any hikes to the canyon rims. Plan to encounter sand, but as a winter bonus, it may be frozen or at least hardened.

Where to stay at Zion National Park in winter:

We have stayed at Cliffrose Lodge in both summer and winter, and love this property. See why it’s great for families here. The Cliffrose has been family-owned for many years, and the owners are committed to the area, putting money back into their property, and elevating the tourism experience in Springdale and Zion National Park. The lodge is just outside the park boundary next to the visitor center, and the view out of every window is fantastic. In summer, the gardens and access to the river turn the Cliffrose into an extension of the park for outdoor play, and in winter, the open, elegant lobby beckons. A full restaurant is slated to open in 2017, as well.

In winter, three outdoor hot tubs are at your disposal (in summer, there’s also a spacious pool), and a breakfast-in-bed (in room) menu is available for $10/person. Cliffrose suites are perfect for larger families, as they have two bedrooms separated by a full kitchen and dining area, with balcony or patio.

Where to eat in Springdale:

Springdale, the tiny town at the entrance of the park, is unlike any other ‘national park town’ I’ve experienced. It’s a destination in its own right, with art galleries, eateries, and specialty shops hugging Highway 9 against the backdrop of jaw-dropping canyons. From the Cliffrose, you’re only a few blocks from just about everything. The following restaurants are our favorites, with a few we haven’t tried added in that have been recommended by locals:

9 East: this upscale Italian and Mediterranean bistro has been opened by a recent executive chef from Las Vegas
The Spotted Dog: American bistro fare
Bit ‘n Spur: upscale Southwestern/Mexican hybrid cuisine
Oscars
Kings Landing

How to extend your Zion National Park trip in winter:

I recommend staying in Springdale at least three days in winter to enjoy both the town and the park, then extending your stay in Southern Utah to include Bryce Canyon National Park or a Southern Utah ski resort. Brian Head resort is only about an hour away, where families can snowmobile, ski, and snowboard to round out an adventurous vacation.

Pin it for later:

I was a guest of the Cliffrose and Zion Outfitter for the purpose of review. All opinions remain my own.

Bryce Canyon National Park in winter

February 24, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

If you’ve been to Bryce Canyon in summer, you know this national park is incredibly scenic, and also incredibly crowded. Even the ‘shoulder’ seasons of late spring and early fall are becoming congested with tourists. But come in the heart of winter, and you’ll have this playground of natural wonders to yourself.

Things to do in Bryce Canyon National Park in winter:

Much of Bryce Canyon stays open year round. With an elevation of around 7000 feet, families may or may not encounter snow; we did, on our trip, but I was told it varies by season. If there is snow, it’s possible to cross country ski or snowshoe in and around the park, and of course if you encounter dry ground, hiking is an option. Just keep an open mind and be flexible.

Start at Ruby’s:

On the north end of the park, just outside the boundary, lies Ruby’s Inn, which is actually an entire complex consisting of a activities center, wild west dinner show venue, restaurants, and hotel rooms. Reuben (Ruby) and Minnie Syrett arrived in the area in 1916 and founded Ruby’s in 1923. It’s owned by the family to this day.

If you need a place to stay overnight, Ruby’s has clean, basic hotel rooms on the edge of the park, but it’s a great stop if you’re in Bryce Canyon just for the day, too. In winter, Ruby’s offers a winter sports center with an ice skating rink, a nordic track with six miles of trails (which connects to more in the national park) and cross-country ski and skate rentals.

We rented skis and took to the nordic track, which curves around the Ruby’s complex to the edge of the canyon. After just a 15 minute ski, you are rewarded with amazing views of Bryce. I suggest taking the two mile loop with kids; cross-country skiing is not hard to learn and a fun way to see Bryce in the snow.

The restaurant at Ruby’s is adjacent, and has a family-friendly buffet at both breakfast and lunch, as well as a menu to order off of. At very low crowd time periods, such as when we visited, they may not offer the buffet, but will still have a full sale and soup bar. Ruby’s is not fine dining, by any means, but a solid choice for feeding the family. Next to the restaurant is an extensive store, where you can pick up souvenirs but also groceries, winter clothing, and anything else you may have forgotten.

See Bryce Canyon with an expert with Bryce Valley Tours:

You’ll have Bryce Canyon to yourself in the winter, but you may not know where to go or what you’re seeing. We had the opportunity to see the park with John of Bryce Valley Tours, who accompanied us on our ski trek and explained the geological history of the canyon as we skied. John also offers half-day and full-day tours, which can be tailored to your family’s interests. Half-day tours are $75/pp, which I think is a good value for the opportunity to have an expert guide you who knows which parts of accessible in snow, which are closed in winter, and the like.

Stop at the visitor’s center:

The Bryce Canyon visitor’s center is located directly past the entrance, and is small but worth the stop. The exhibit area explains the geological history of the canyon’s rock formations, including the hoodoos you’ll see everywhere. Get the kids their Junior Ranger booklets, and get stamps in your national park passports.

Drive to the most scenic lookouts in the park:

Bryce Canyon is a park that’s big on views. The major lookouts are all open in the winter, even in snow. Drive in and check out Inspiration Point—trust me, it’s aptly named—and Swamp Canyon. The latter is much more stunning than the name suggests. At each of these lookouts, short hiking trails are available. When we visited, the snow was several feet deep, but they were still open, albeit difficult to navigate. If you decide to walk a bit, be careful of your footing, as you ARE on the edge of a canyon. Snowshoes would help.

Tips for visiting Bryce Canyon National Park in winter:

Call the park ahead of your trip to stay up-to-date on any road closures or closed exhibits; this is the off-season.
Be prepared for any type of weather; you could get snow or sun. Make sure everyone in your group has winter boots, waterproof pants, a hat, gloves, and jacket. You don’t want to get caught off-guard and have to buy all this at Ruby’s!
If there IS snow, try snowshoeing to get around on the trails.
Wear sunscreen; the high elevation causes people to burn easily if the sun is out.
Hydrate and go slowly at elevation until you’ve acclimated. Check out our tips for adjusting to high elevations.

Guide to visiting Iceland in the winter with kids

February 16, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’ve been hearing the word ‘Iceland’ related to ‘family travel’ for a few years now. Families can have a great adventure in Iceland during the warm months (in fact, stay tuned for a guide to camping in Iceland with kids), but many people are still reluctant to try visiting Iceland in the winter with kids. It’s a great time to visit, and if you read on, I’m going to guide you through your worries and reservations so you can take advantage of visiting during this time of year.

Advantages to visiting Iceland in the winter with kids:

Fewer crowds
Cheaper
Better chance of seeing Northern Lights
Museums and sights are open year round
The hot spots/tubs/pools are a big hit in the colder weather!

Why take kids to Iceland?

Iceland is very kid-friendly with lots of museums, exhibits and sights that kids would enjoy.
If your kids enjoy swimming, they will love visiting the many, many hot spots Iceland has to offer.
Icelandic tradition is steeped in elves and trolls, making it a fun fantasy land for kids with active imaginations.
It’s a great introduction to international travel because everyone speaks English as well as Icelandic, they drive on the right hand side of the road, and the money is in Icelandic kroners but easy to figure out. Just international enough to make it exciting!

Our concerns about winter travel with kids in Iceland:

Shortened daylight hours—We visited in early January when the sunrise was at 11:30 and sunset was 3:30. But it actually gets light around 10:30 and doesn’t get dark until 4:30. Keeping the kids on east coast time, they went to bed late and slept in late, so it worked out fine. (See ”daily schedule” below.)
Weather—No matter what time of year you visit Iceland, you have to be conscious of changes in the weather and adapt your plans accordingly. The days were around 40 degrees with very little change at night. It snowed lightly some days, but nothing that made travel difficult. On a few occasions, the wind made being outside too cold. All in all, being used to cold winter weather, as long as the kids were dressed appropriately (and adults!), we were fine. (See “clothing” below.)

What to see and do along the Golden Circle:

We started out by staying in Laugarvatn, along the Golden Circle about two hours from the airport in Keflavik. We stayed at Efstidalur II, a working cattle ranch. This farm hotel is in an excellent location to explore all the sights of the Golden Circle. They serve breakfast and dinner (not included in $140 room rate for a double) and have a wonderful ice cream parlor downstairs.

From this hotel, we could easily access Geysir, home of the famous Geysir and Stokkur geysers. This is a short walk along a path. It is a bit touristy, but a must. There is a café, restaurant and gift shop. It’s also close to Gulfoss, home of Iceland’s most famous double waterfall, Golden Falls. This can be reached by walking along a path along the top of the ridge as well as down to the bottom of the falls. This location is not to be missed.

Pingvellir National Park is Iceland’s most important historical site where the Vikings established the first democratic parliament. It is also where the North American and Eurasian techtonic plates meet causing a huge fissure. There are many paths into the park from several parking areas. You can visit amazing waterfalls as well as walk along the giant fissure to a visitor center. Near Pingvellir is Fakasel Icelandic Horse Park. We did not go here, but it was recommended to us by locals. You can take a barn tour and see an evening show.

Hot springs to visit in the Golden Circle area:

Gamia Laugin (Secret Lagoon) in Fludir. This was wonderful. Bus tours visit here, so you need to come either before 3:30 or after 5:30. You can email them and request a time that is not during their tour hours to guarantee you get in. This pool is in beautiful rustic outdoor setting but with modern shower facilities and towel rentals. Kids loved floating around on the noodles provided and diving down for smooth stones along the bottom. Water was almost too hot for the kids for very long.

Fontano geothermal pool in Laugarvatn. This is a more modern facility with several man-made pools, hot tubs and shallow wading pools. It is also next to a lake you can go into (cold!) and then return to a hot pool. Kids loved this one too because they could play in the shallow water and not get so hot!

What we saw along the Ring Road south of Reykjavik:

Just beyond Selfoss, the Ring Road becomes very interesting with lots of green houses and Icelandic horses. After Hella there is flood zone that was covered in muddy lava fromt ohe 2010 eruption of Eyjafjallajokull.

Seljalandsfoss waterfalls—this is a roadside pull out with paths (icy!) to several impressive waterfalls. There were restrooms but no food service. Lots of jagged cave entrances and rock outcroppings.
Skogafoss waterfall—another road side stop with a path to the top of a huge waterfall. There is a restaurant here.
Just beyond this in Skogar is the Skogar Folk Museum that we did not have time for, but sounded like it would be fun for kids.
We did not make it as far as Vik, but would have liked to have seen its beach.

Reykjavik and the Blue Lagoon:

There’s so much to do in this part of Iceland in winter! Start with the Blue Lagoon: since this is the most famous of all the geothermal pools in Iceland, we had to visit! You need to make and pay for reservations in advance on line. You sign up for a day and time. We almost missed our time, but it would have been okay if we were a little late. This is pricey and very touristy, but it is also pretty amazing. It’s a huge lake, basically, with swim up bars. It gets quite deep and kids have to wear water wings, no matter what their swimming ability, to go out into the deeper water. Our kids did NOT like this rule at all and I wish I had been able to prepare them for it. There is a snack bar but other than a really fancy restaurant, no regular café-type food.

There is a lot to see and do with kids in Reykjavik in the winter. If you are staying in the city center or old town, it is easy to walk everywhere. When booking your accommodations, make sure you are not on a busy street. The bars and pubs stay open all hours and are noisy at night Book a walking tour. We booked a walking tour with “Your Friend in Reykjavik”. Read about them on line or on TripAdvisor. It was just the six of us and our tour guide adapted the tour so the kids would have fun as well. On their recommendation, we booked it on a Saturday so we could visit the Saturday Flea Market. It was a two-hour tour through Old Town, the harbor, the city center, flea market and the town lake, Tjornin, where we fed ducks. This family run company was also very helpful before we even got to Iceland, with lots of insider recommendations and suggestions. Here are a few Reykjavik highlights:

Saga Museum—This is a wax museum where you where a set a headphones and are guided through the museum listening to Viking history. It is a bit graphic and our 6 year old wasn’t crazy about it, but it was fun for the rest of us. It has a kid play area where you can dress up. It is in the harbor area. The museum has a fancy restaurant, but there are several cafes long the harbor.

Settlement Exhibition—This museum is built around the excavation of an ancient Viking long house. It is underground and has lots of very cool computer generated effects. There is also a really nice kids area with dress up, games, coloring sheets and a Viking set up. Highly recommended.

Hallgrimskirkja church elevator—take the elevator up to the top of this iconic church to get some great views.

Open Air Museum (Arbaer)—this was only open during the week for 2:00 tours, and our weather didn’t really cooperate but it would be a great place to take kids if it were nice outside.

National Museum—we did not take the kids to this, but it has very well organized displays and there were lots of kids in the museum. It has a separate head set program for kids.

The Laundromat Café—this is a great family restaurant with a downstairs play area for kids. We ate here four different times! It’s just minutes from Old Reykjavik along the main shopping street of Laugavegur.

Laugardalslaug swim complex—We had to drive to this, but it was only about 10 minutes. This is a huge complex that has several full size pools and a lot of smaller hot tubs around it. The kids loved it because it had a twisty slide you could go down.

Up next, packing advice and practical tips for visiting Iceland in winter with kids! Click on the button below to continue.

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Belize adventure vacation: What to do with a week in San Ignacio Belize

January 4, 2021 By Amy Hagstrom

If the first thing to comes to mind when you think of Belize is beaches and cays, it’s time to rethink this small country that’s big on outdoor adventure. For those who venture into the interior, especially the west side of Belize in the Cayo District, rivers, caves, Mayan ruins and culture abounds. Here’s how to spend a week or more in the Cayo District, based in the town of San Ignacio.

Belize adventure vacation: San Ignacio Belize

Why base yourself in San Ignacio? This small town of around 9,000 is within minutes of Mayan sites, and less than an hour’s drive from some of the best caving, tubing, hiking and canoeing in Belize. San Ignacio is friendly, easily explored on foot, and offers up what I believe to be the best boutique hotel in the region: San Ignacio Resort Hotel. (See our full review of the San Ignacio Resort Hotel here.)

You’ll want to rent a car or arrange for a hotel shuttle transfer from the international airport near Belize City to San Ignacio, which is about 80 miles to the west, near the Guatemalan border. Unless you plan to book guided tours daily, which frankly, is what we opted to do, you will definitely want your own car to explore the Cayo District. Here’s what not to miss:

Xunantunich and Cahal Pech Mayan ruins:

Both these archeological sites are rich in historical and cultural significance, and both are within easy distance of San Ignacio. In fact, you could walk to Cahal Pech from the San Ignacio Resort Hotel. Xunantunich is about a 25-minute drive and is the larger of the two sites. To get there, you’ll need to cross the Macal River via a small hand-propelled ferry system, which is free but requires passengers to exit the vehicle and stand on the moving ferry platform while crossing. The river is small and the process takes less than five minutes. From there, follow the road one mile to the parking area and ticket booth, then climb the hill to follow in the footsteps of the Mayan people who once lived here.

I highly recommend hiring a guide to tour Xunantunich and Cahal Pech, as we know we would not have understood half of what we looked at without Cruz, our trusty guide from San Ignacio Resort Hotel. From the main courtyard of the ruins, you can take in the ceremonial buildings of the priests and the living quarters of the royal Mayan families who once inhabited this region, and you can climb the steep steps to take in the views of the surrounding jungle. Cahal Pech is smaller, but allows for even more exploration of the interiors of the ruins; we wound our way along ancient corridors and through archways to one-time bed chambers. At both sites, be sure to note the ball courts where games were played, and peek into the small museum space at Cahal Pech.

Note: visitors to this region can also tour the famous Tikal ruins in Guatemala; it’s a short drive to the border for a border crossing, then about a two-hour drive. Your guide will hand over the reins of your day trip to a Guatemalan guide at the border.

Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve:

I had no idea that a pine forest existed in Belize, until we toured Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve. Located at about 3000 feet elevation, the reserve is located about an hour and a half from San Ignacio along pretty rugged (at times) dirt roads. Yes, it’s a long drive, but once inside the park, we found some of our favorite outdoor attractions in Belize. The change of scenery alone is stunning! While guided tours of this reserve are optimal, it’s definitely do-able to drive yourself as long as your vehicle can navigate the rough roads. You’ll want a good map of the area, and be advised that Google won’t help you once in the park.

The Rio Frio Cave is located about 11 miles down the main dirt road of the park, where a cavernous opening leads to what the Mayans once described as the Underworld. It forms a sort of tunnel here, with the Rio Frio pooling and winding through it. Nearby, the Rio On (there are lots of small rivers in this area) awaits, with a series of deep and shallow pools ready-made for adventurous kids (and their parents) to explore. Stop at the turnout for the River On Pools, where you can go to a picnic area and overlook to the left (where a series of steep stairs take you to the river and the lower pools) or to the right, where you can access a gentle trail to the upper pools. We chose to descend the stairs and climb and leap our way up the river, sampling pools as we went, but there is a small, rudimentary changing area and a sandy slope to the pools if you opt for the easier path. The River On Pools were our all-time favorite activity in Belize, and we could easily have spent all afternoon there. Perhaps because they’re difficult to get to, the pools are not crowded at all when we arrived right after lunch on a weekday in February.

Closer to the entrance of the park, you can also follow signage to 1000 Foot Falls, the impressive waterfall you’ve likely seen on postcards and posters of Belize. It’s a decent detour on another rough dirt road (it took us about 30 minutes to get there from the main dirt road), and features an overlook where you can snap photos of the falls and watch for hawks and raptors circulating along the steep, impressive ridgelines. While we were impressed by the view, we wished some trail networks existed here, because after the long drive, we were itching to get some exercise and spend more time along the ridge.

Note: there are a number of eco lodges in the park, but if you opt to stay in one, remember how remote they are! Once settled, you likely won’t be venturing throughout the Cayo District much until you depart.

St. Herman’s Cave & Blue Hole:

No, not that Blue Hole…the one everyone snorkels and scuba dives in is located on the ocean, whereas this Blue Hole is a delightful swimming hole deep in the jungle. Start by touring St. Herman’s cave, for which a guide is required. We loved this tour for several reasons: first, it’s unlike caves in the US with their guard rails, lights, and paved paths. St. Herman’s cave is navigated by climbing, hiking, and sometimes crawling through the limestone passageways. Secondly, the Mayan history is here is fabulous: you can spot shards of pottery and some large pieces of vases and dishes in the cave, as well as ancient remnants of ash and charcoal from campfires. The cave was once used for rituals and the space resonates with history.

It takes about 1.5 hours to navigate the cave, and by the time you emerge on the other side, you will be hot and sweaty (yes, this cave is warm!). This is when to go swimming at Blue Hole! There are also four distinct hiking trails through the jungle here, all part of the Blue Hole National Park, so if you didn’t come with a guide (and therefore can only peek into St. Herman’s cave) you can enjoy the trails at your leisure. There are also guided tubing tours through the cave, though personally, we thought it more fun and more peaceful to cave spelunk away from the splashing, noisy groups.

Note: ATM cave is one of the most popular in the region, and while we did not tour it, we were advised that St. Herman’s is more technical and more challenging to navigate. If you would prefer something a bit more relaxed while still beautiful and impressive, ATM may be the better option for you.

We spent four full days in San Ignacio and barely scratched the surface of all there is to do here. In addition to the tours described above, cultural tours of Mayan women’s co-ops (where traditional cooking can be learned) and San Ignacio (where the art of Mayan chocolate-making is demonstrated and sampled) should not be missed. The latter can be arranged on your own as you walk through town, but the former requires a guide. There are also Macal River canoe trips, additional caving options, and the Green Iguana Conservation Project, located at San Ignacio Resort Hotel. (See our review of the hotel for a full description of this on-site project.)

Guided tours can be booked downtown, but we highly recommend arranging your tours through the concierge at San Ignacio Resort Hotel, who will take the time to describe your options and make the experience seamless. Tours are kept to your own family group, so you get a personalized experience every time, and if you book multiple tours, they do their best to give you the same guide each day, so you establish a great report and friendship. You don’t need to be a guest of the resort to utilize their expertise, though I do recommend staying here!

Do you have a favorite Cayo District outdoor adventure? Share in the comments!

Black Hills mountain biking for families

August 6, 2020 By Amy Hagstrom

The Black Hills of South Dakota never fail to surprise…and impress. This western region of South Dakota is known as the home of Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park, and of course, for its Wild West history (Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane called the Black Hills home). More recently, however, the Black Hills have been recognized as an emerging mountain biking region, known for its amazing range of trails that includes everything from accessible paths and great beginner terrain for families to more advanced trails for avid bikers . Here’s where to go…

Mickelson Trail

Families looking to add some mountain biking to their Black Hills road trip or vacation should start with the Mickelson Trail. This 109-mile trail curves through several Black Hills historic towns, including Deadwood, Hill City, and Custer. It’s a rail trail, which means it follows an abandoned railroad line, and is therefore a good grade for family riding (in other words, it’s not too steep).

There are 15 trailheads at which you can start your rail trail journey, assuming you’re not going to do the whole thing. Along the way, trestle bridges and rail tunnels add fun for kids, and the scenery is always gorgeous as the trail cuts through the limestone and granite of the Black Hills. It’s easy to follow the Mickelson Trail for a full day, stopping for a nice lunch and some sightseeing en route.

We recommend: Take the section from Hill City to Custer, which is about 15 miles from the Burlington Northern Hill City trailhead to the Harbach Park trailhead in Custer. This map is a useful planning tool.

Alkali Creek Trail

Families who have intermediate riders and are ready for a bigger challenge than the flat Mickelson Trail may want to try Alkali Creek. The entire length of the trail is 18 miles, but there’s not too much elevation gain. From I-90, you’ll want to take exit 34 near Black Hills National Cemetery, turn right (north) and follow the road for about one mile. For a bigger challenge, try Terry Peak, which is located past Deadwood by the Terry Peak Ski Area in the town of Lead.

Hanson-Larsen Memorial Park Trail Network

For families with beginner and intermediate riders who want a trail system that has a bit of everything, and is based close to Rapid City, the Hanson-Larsen network is located just outside town and offers great views of the city. Head up Skyline Drive to find it (park at Founders Park on Omaha), and be ready for some elevation gains and losses. The circuits are short however, allowing families to tailor the length of the ride to suit. Note: The Skyline Drive Trail is located just past Dinosaur Park in Rapid City, but its trails are more advanced.

Where To Rent Bikes

For families not road tripping with their mountain bikes, there are numerous places to rent bikes while on vacation in the Black Hills. We rented bikes at Rabbit Bicycles in Hill City because this shop is directly on the Mickelson Trail, making it very easy to go from renting to riding. They also offer a shuttle service for families who want to go one way on the trail and then be transported back.

Alternatives certainly exist: If you think you’ll want to ride bikes in many locations, and are flying or driving into Rapid City, consider renting at ACME Bicycles or Black Hills Bicycles in Rapid City. We also noted rental locations in Spearfish and Sturgis.

Tip: Make sure everyone in the family has a properly fitting helmet while riding, as well as shin guards and arm pads for single track (not necessary on the Mickelson Trail). We recommend G-Form pads.

This post was written in partnership with Travel South Dakota, and based on my personal experience in the Black Hills region. Interested in traveling to South Dakota? Get a free travel guide!