A rustic cabin stay at Silver Falls State Park, Oregon

A state park stay can be a great way to safely travel with the family during COVID-19. For up-to-date information on park closures and updates in Oregon, check here. Located approximately 25 miles east of Salem, Oregon off Highway 22, Silver Falls State Park is the largest in Oregon. With each site tucked away under the canopy of the temperate rain forest, however, you'd never know it. Silver … [Read more...]

Uncruise review of Costa Rica and Panama: Why small ship cruising is great for families

Every so often, we are lucky enough to experience a trip that sets our bar higher for family travel excellence. Before we embarked on our Uncruise adventure through Costa Rica and Panama, the bar was already pretty darn high...we had experienced small ship sailing previously with Alaskan Dream Cruises and frankly, didn't think it could be topped. While there were a few differences, Uncruise met … [Read more...]

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The way to see Grand Teton National Park with kids: OARS Jackson Lake 2-Day Trip

When I knew my family and I would be spending time in Jackson Hole, Wyoming and Grand Teton National Park, I immediately looked for an OARS trip to take in the area. After our five-day Rogue River rafting trip with OARS, it was the easy choice. OARS is just that good at what they do. I’ve already talked about what sets OARS apart. In a nutshell, the guides are professionals but also become … [Read more...]

Family farm stays: a review of Leaping Lamb Farm

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 … [Read more...]

Zion National Park in winter

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 … [Read more...]

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

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 … [Read more...]

Backcountry skiing basics: How to get into the sport

It's never been a better time to get into the backcountry and leave the crowds behind! Here's how to get into the sport during the COVID season! An avid downhill skier and snowshoer, I've been noting the small but growing trend toward backcountry skiing for some time now. This sport, which combines a love of nordic exploration and downhill excitement, attracts men and women (and yes, some kids) … [Read more...]

Glamping on the Oregon coast at Bay Point Landing

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. 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 … [Read more...]

Exploring the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone: navigating Upper and Lower Falls

During a time when many vacations are not possible, outdoor activities in road trip-accessible locations offer the ability to safely social distance. Hotels.com asked me to share my favorite activities and tips for exploring Yellowstone, so start here as you plan a safe and responsible vacation. Located a full 50 miles away from the central hub (and congestion) of Yellowstone National Park's Old … [Read more...]

Family camping at new heights: Gear for elevated camping

Have you ever wanted to camp off the ground? Elevated camping is becoming more and more popular, because camping in tents and hammocks designed to be strung in trees allows families to camp on un-even terrain, away from pesky insects, and out of the elements. It's also just super fun and cool. If you want to try elevated camping, here's what you'll need! Kammok Wallaby paired with the … [Read more...]