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...]
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...]
Multi-night river rafting on the Tuolumne River
August 31, 2020 By
The Tuolumne River near Yosemite National Park is one of the most pristine and exciting rivers I've experienced. But is river rafting safe during COVID-19? My fifteen-year-old son and I rafted the Tuolumne River for three days with OARS, and not only did we have the usual amazing time on the river I've come to expect from an OARS trip, but we felt safe and responsible, too. All of our OARS … [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...]
The wonders of Wall Drug, South Dakota (in photos)
August 24, 2020 By
Have you stopped at Wall Drug, in Wall, South Dakota? If you've driven along I-90 in either direction, even hundreds of miles out, you probably have stopped. This fantastical roadside pit stop is absolutely worth a stop, or even a detour, to explore with the kids. I was lucky enough to meet the third and fourth generation owners of Wall Drug, which is still owned by the original Hustead … [Read more...]
Black Hills mountain biking for families
August 6, 2020 By
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 … [Read more...]
Main Salmon River rafting trip with O.A.R.S.
August 3, 2020 By
The best—and nearly only—way to experience the 2.3 million acre Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness of Central Idaho is by whitewater raft down the Main Salmon River. The route along the Wild and Scenic section of the Salmon runs 80 miles and requires extensive whitewater experience and permits…or can be booked with an adventure outfitter like O.A.R.S. Why choose the Main Salmon with … [Read more...]
Olympic National Park with kids
July 31, 2020 By
Tucked away on Washington state's Olympic Peninsula, Olympic National Park offers the best of not one, not two, but three worlds: temperate rain forest, ocean beaches, and mountain peaks await visitors to this unique park. No matter the season, families can escape metropolitan life in only a matter of several hours (approximately three from Portland and Seattle) and find themselves hiking between … [Read more...]
American Colonial and Revolutionary History Road Trip
July 20, 2020 By
Touring Boston, Philadelphia, and Virginia with kids! Looking for a ready-made American history road trip itinerary? We've got it! This itinerary starts in Boston, MA and ends in Williamsburg, Virginia, and hit highlights of American colonial and Revolutionary history. Civil War history can be added, as well! Days 1-3: Start your trip in historic Boston. Walk the Freedom Trail, visit … [Read more...]
Black Hills Road Trip Itinerary: Exploring South Dakota’s Wild Side
July 9, 2020 By
When families ask me where they can find outdoor adventure, beautiful scenery, American history, and affordable accommodations, the Black Hills of South Dakota are at the top of my list. The first time I visited the Black Hills, I was blown away, and I feel just as passionate about this family-friendly destination today. Located on the western end of the state, the Black Hills are within easy … [Read more...]
