Planning a family vacation to the snow in Lake Tahoe? There are multiple hamlets dotting the north and west shores of Lake Tahoe that deserve recognition! And to the south, the towns of Kings Beach, Tahoe City, and Homewood are also great ski communities, with their own activities and dining options. Here's the scoop on the Lake Tahoe region in winter! Hotels.com asked me to share my favorite … [Read more...]
Squaw Valley CA with school-aged kids and teens: where to stay, dine, and ski
January 5, 2021 By
A ski vacation is the perfect socially-distanced getaway, in the outdoors! Every ski resort experience is different this season, so visit Squaw Alpine's website for the latest COVID updates and regulations..Squaw Valley CA has long enjoyed a reputation for challenging ski terrain for advanced and expert skiers. In the last several years--most recently after their merge with neighbor Alpine Meadows … [Read more...]
The Alamo, San Antonio Texas
December 10, 2020 By
During a time when many vacations are not possible, road trip-accessible locations offer the ability to safely social distance. Hotels.com asked me to share my favorite activities and tips for exploring San Antonio, so start here as you plan a safe and responsible vacation. Ever heard the phrase "Remember the Alamo," and thought to yourself that it was simply a crazy thing Texans say? Couldn't … [Read more...]
Backcountry skiing basics: How to get into the sport
December 2, 2020 By
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...]
Fall in the Poconos: Woodloch Pines Family Resort review
November 16, 2020 By
Woodloch Pines is open this fall. See how they're safely handling operations during COVID-19. An hour northeast of Scranton, Penn., Woodloch has been an East Coast family destination for generations, with many families returning year after year. While there are a number of properties under the Woodloch umbrella, the one families will want to zero in on is the family … [Read more...]
Glamping on the Oregon coast at Bay Point Landing
October 29, 2020 By
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
October 9, 2020 By
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...]
Best Mountain Towns: Jackson Hole Wyoming
September 10, 2020 By
Ready for a Western vacation in a breathtaking setting? Jackson, Wyoming is one of the best vacation towns for families, in any season. We love to visit in summer, where we can base ourselves in Jackson to explore Grand Teton National Park, the Snake River, and area lakes and hikes. Here's what you can expect in Jackson Hole, what to do, where to stay, and where to eat. Read on for our Jackson … [Read more...]
Exploring Spokane and Northern Idaho with kids
September 3, 2020 By
Two of my three kids were born in Spokane, Washington. During the time we lived in this Eastern Washington city, downtown Spokane remained fairly sleepy, with quiet, understated shops and eateries framing beautiful Riverfront Park. In the years since we moved to Oregon, we’ve been lucky enough to return multiple times for the wonderful outdoor opportunities in Washington and Idaho, and have … [Read more...]
Summer in the Berkshires: Zoar Outdoor river rafting
August 27, 2020 By
The largest of three area river rafting outfitters, Zoar Outdoor offers all levels of tours down the scenic Deerfield River, from family float trips to advanced whitewater day trips. Located in beautiful Charlemont in the heart of Massachusetts’ Berkshires, Zoar is one part family resort (tent cabins and lodge rooms are available), one part adventure center (guests can try their skill on the … [Read more...]
