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White Water Rafting Adventure With the Family

White water rafting is a fun, exciting adventure that pretty much anyone can participate in. You can vary the difficulty level up alot by choosing which class of rapids you want to handle, what kind of boat, or in some cases, tube, and how long you want to go for.

Whitewater Rafting with Children in the United States

A whitewater trip with the family is tons of bonding opportunities. You are drifting through a beautiful area, there are moments where you really have to work together, and hilarious things invariably happen on a rafting trip. It will give you tons to talk about for years to come. The best times for rapids are Spring and Fall. Fall usually when dams are released.

Be careful to check the classes of rapids for the season. It can even vary by day if there’s been significant rain. So always check before heading out. Class one  and two are good for beginners and young kids. Three and four are getting pretty serious, so I’d recommend saving that for the older kids, as well as five and six. Six is for experts only. Here are some great ideas for where to travel with your children on your next big family adventure

Lehigh River, Pennsylvania

The Lehigh River in the Pocono Mountains offers Class II and III rapids, making it suitable for beginners and intermediate rafters. The fall foliage along the riverbanks adds to the beauty of the experience. Companies like Pocono Whitewater and Whitewater Challengers offer guided rafting trips.

River Rider Family Adventure Resort, Harper’s Ferry, West Virginia

Take the family on a variety of excursions at this one stop shop for everything fun. It’s year round as well. So there’s rafting, zip lining, e-biking and tubing in the winter. It’s only one hour from the DC and Baltimore Metro Regions, River Riders Inc. offers white water rafting, tubing, canopy tour/zip lining, aerial forest adventure parks, kayaking, canoeing, mountain biking, lodging options and fishing adventures on the beautiful Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers (class I-III) in Harpers Ferry, West Virginia. You can get a full day Adventure pass to spend the day having fun with the family. For more information, check out The River Rider Adventure Resort.

Photo Cred: River Rider Family Adventure Resort

Colorado River, Grand Canyon, Arizona

Rafting through the Grand Canyon is a breathtaking experience, offering both calm waters and thrilling rapids. There are various trip lengths available, ranging from short one-day excursions to multi-day adventures.

Snake River, Jackson Hole, Wyoming

The Snake River offers family-friendly rafting trips with Class II and Class III rapids, making it suitable for beginners and young kids. The picturesque Teton Mountains provide a stunning backdrop for your rafting adventure.

Salmon River, Idaho

Known as the “River of No Return,” the Salmon River provides a mix of gentle stretches and exciting rapids, making it an excellent option for families seeking both relaxation and adrenaline-pumping fun.

Deschutes River, Oregon

The Deschutes River offers family-friendly rafting experiences with Class II and Class III rapids. The scenic canyon and high desert landscape add to the charm of this adventure.

Nantahala River, North Carolina

This river is a great option for families with younger children or those new to rafting. It offers Class II rapids and a beautiful mountainous setting.

Whitewater rafting on the Nantahala

Arkansas River, Colorado 

The Arkansas River provides a range of rafting options suitable for families, from mild Class II sections to more challenging Class III and IV rapids in other areas. There are many family-friendly rafting outfitters in this region.

Rogue River, Oregon

The Rogue River offers a mix of calm waters and moderate rapids, providing families with a memorable and scenic rafting experience.

American River, California 

The American River features three forks, each with different levels of difficulty. The South Fork is suitable for families and beginners, offering Class II and III rapids.

Gauley River, West Virginia

If you have older kids or teenagers, the Gauley River can provide an exciting adventure with its intense Class IV and V rapids during certain times of the year.

Whitewater Rafting Destinations Outside of The United States

Futaleufú River, Chile

Located in Patagonia, the Futaleufú River is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and challenging Class IV and V rapids. The stunning mountainous landscape adds to the adventure.

Zambezi River, Zambia, and Zimbabwe

Rafting on the Zambezi River provides an adrenaline-pumping experience, particularly near Victoria Falls, with some of the wildest Class V rapids in the world.

Pacuare River, Costa Rica

This tropical paradise offers an incredible rafting experience through lush rainforests and stunning canyons. The Pacuare River features Class III and IV rapids.

Ottawa River, Canada

The Ottawa River offers an array of rapids suitable for various skill levels, making it a great family-friendly option. The river flows through beautiful wilderness and features Class III and IV rapids.

Reventazón River, Costa Rica

Another gem in Costa Rica, the Reventazón River, provides a mix of Class II to Class IV rapids, surrounded by lush jungles and vibrant wildlife.

Franklin River, Tasmania, Australia

The Franklin River offers remote and challenging rafting trips through the wilderness of Tasmania. It’s a fantastic option for experienced rafters seeking an unforgettable adventure.

Tara River, Montenegro, and Bosnia and Herzegovina

The Tara River Canyon is the second deepest in the world and offers thrilling Class III to V rapids, cutting through stunning Balkan landscapes.

Sun Kosi River, Nepal

Rafting on the Sun Kosi River allows you to experience the beauty of the Himalayas while navigating through exhilarating Class III to IV rapids.

The White Nile, Uganda

The White Nile is a popular destination for rafters of all levels, offering challenging rapids, beautiful scenery, and opportunities to spot unique wildlife along the riverbanks.

Planning Your Trip

Remember, safety should always be a top priority when rafting with your family. Make sure to choose a reputable rafting outfitter that provides experienced guides and appropriate safety equipment. Additionally, check the minimum age and skill requirements for each trip to ensure it matches your family’s abilities and preferences.

When planning a whitewater rafting trip outside of the USA, it’s essential to research local regulations, choose reputable outfitters, and consider the best time of year to experience optimal water levels and weather conditions. Always prioritize safety by using appropriate gear and going with experienced guides.

Photo by Ramon Buçard on Unsplash

Just Because You Have Kids Doesn’t Mean Your Adventurous Life Has to Stop

Just because you have kids doesn't mean you can't be adventurous anymore.

You’ve spent much of your early life traveling and being adventurous. But now you’ve settled down a bit and had a family. All those visions of traveling as a family together are now right at your doorstep.

Are you panicking a little? No worries. We all do that at first. However, families that travel together, really benefit from the quality family time and learning experiences.

So in your years before you had kids you got really good at knowing how to be an adult traveling. Now, as an adult traveling with a tiny human completely relying on you it can be intimidating. Some people think they need to just wait it out until their kids are grown. No way! 

Being a parent doesn’t mean you have to give up on being adventurous. While some aspects of your adventures might need to be adjusted to accommodate your child’s needs and safety, there are still plenty of ways to have exciting experiences as a family.

Ideas on How to Take The Kids on Fun Adventures

Here are some tips on how a parent can still be adventurous with a child:

Family-friendly adventures: Choose activities that are suitable for all family members. Hiking, nature walks, picnics, and visiting child-friendly attractions can be enjoyable for both parents and children.

Travel with kids: Explore family-friendly travel destinations that offer a mix of fun activities for both parents and children. Consider destinations with kid-friendly attractions, parks, and nature reserves.

Outdoor activities: Engage in outdoor activities that are safe and suitable for children, such as camping, fishing, biking, or playing sports together.

Adventure within your community: You don’t always need to go far to have an adventure. Explore local parks, museums, festivals, and events that offer unique experiences for the whole family.

Adventurous storytelling: Encourage your child’s imagination and creativity through adventurous storytelling or reading adventure-themed books together.

Teach and learn together: Involve your child in learning about nature, wildlife, or history during your adventures. It can be a fun and educational experience for both of you.

Safety first: Prioritize safety during your adventures. Plan and prepare adequately, especially when trying new activities with your child.

Embrace spontaneity: Be open to embracing spontaneous moments during your adventures, which can lead to unexpected and delightful experiences.

Set a positive example: Demonstrate your own enthusiasm for exploration and adventure, as your child often follows your lead and enthusiasm.

Balance and flexibility: Find a balance between adventurous activities and family responsibilities. Be flexible with your plans to accommodate your child’s needs and moods.

Remember, being adventurous as a parent doesn’t have to be extreme or risky. It’s about exploring new experiences together, fostering a sense of wonder, and creating lasting memories as a family. Your child’s presence can add a new dimension of joy and discovery to your adventures, making them even more special and meaningful.

Families That Travel Together: Zion National Park, Utah

Zion ha some of the most amazing hikes and views. It will remind you why you like being on this planet.

Are you an adventure family? Then you’ll loving going to Zion together. Before I had my daughter, I went with my then husband at the time, to hike Angel’s Landing. I’ve never forgotten it. I was amazed to see babies in backpacks along that trail but everyone came home in one piece that day. It’s a beautiful hike and highly recommend it. Just make sure everyone understands this is the real deal and they have to stay focused on a hike like that.

So here’s more about Zion. Zion National Park is a popular destination for families seeking adventure and outdoor recreation. Located in southern Utah, the park offers a variety of activities and sights for visitors of all ages. Here are some of the best family adventures to experience in Zion National Park.

Hiking in Zion National Park

Zion National Park is known for its stunning hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the park’s diverse landscapes. The park has a variety of hiking trails that are suitable for families, including the easy Riverside Walk, which follows the Virgin River and leads to the iconic Zion Narrows. The Emerald Pools Trail is another popular trail that features a series of pools and waterfalls.

For more adventurous families, the Angels Landing Trail is a must-do. The trail offers sweeping views of the park from the top of a 1,488-foot peak, but requires some steep and narrow sections that may not be suitable for younger children.

Scenic Drives At Zion National Park

Zion National Park is home to two scenic drives that offer stunning views of the park’s landscapes. The Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is a 6-mile route that winds through the park’s main canyon and offers spectacular views of towering sandstone cliffs, narrow slot canyons, and cascading waterfalls.

The Kolob Canyons Scenic Drive is another popular drive that offers views of the park’s less-visited northwestern section. The drive features stunning vistas of towering peaks, deep canyons, and colorful rock formations.

Wildlife Viewing at Zion National Park

Zion National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including mule deer, bighorn sheep, and mountain lions. Families can take a guided wildlife tour or explore the park on their own to spot some of these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

Camping in Zion National Park

Camping is a popular activity in Zion National Park, with several campgrounds located throughout the park. Families can choose from tent camping or RV camping, and enjoy the park’s beautiful scenery under the stars.

Zion National Park Rock Climbing

For adventurous families, rock climbing is a thrilling activity that offers a unique perspective of Zion National Park’s towering sandstone cliffs. There are several guided climbing tours available in the park, as well as designated climbing areas for experienced climbers.

Zion National Park is a wonderful destination for families seeking adventure and outdoor recreation. With a variety of activities to choose from, families can explore the park’s stunning landscapes, spot wildlife, and enjoy quality time together in one of America’s most beautiful national parks.

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Great Destinations for Family Adventure

Looking for an exciting way to spend quality time with your your family? Families that travel together build bonds that last them throughout their lives. Going on an adventure is also the perfect way to not only create lasting memories but give the kids a chance to learn more about themselves and what they can accomplish. Here are some of the best destinations for parents to take their children on a one in a lifetime adventure!

Yosemite National Park, California

Yosemite National Park is an excellent destination for families who love the great outdoors. With over 750,000 acres of wilderness to explore, there are plenty of hiking trails, rock climbing opportunities, and waterfalls to discover. Kids will love getting up close to the wildlife, such as bears, deer, and coyotes.

Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada

Banff National Park is a stunning destination that offers endless adventure opportunities for families. With hiking trails that range from easy to challenging, there’s something for everyone. Families can also enjoy kayaking on the clear waters of Lake Louise, skiing in the winter months, and exploring the famous Icefields Parkway.

Moab, Utah

Moab is a destination for families who love to explore the great outdoors. The town is surrounded by beautiful red rock formations, making it the perfect place for hiking, rock climbing, and mountain biking. Families can also enjoy rafting on the Colorado River or exploring the nearby Arches National Park.

Costa Rica

Costa Rica is an excellent destination for families who want to combine adventure with relaxation. With beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and active volcanoes, there’s plenty to see and do. Families can enjoy zip-lining through the jungle, hiking to hidden waterfalls, or spotting monkeys and sloths on a wildlife tour.

Queenstown, New Zealand

Queenstown is an adventure playground for families who love to be active. With a range of outdoor activities, such as bungee jumping, skiing, and jet boating, there’s something for everyone. Families can also explore the stunning Milford Sound or take a scenic helicopter ride over the mountains.

These destinations offer excellent opportunities for families to bond and create lasting memories through adventure. From hiking in Yosemite National Park to skiing in Banff National Park, there’s something for everyone. So, pack your bags, grab your kids, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!

Photo by Bailey Zindel on Unsplash

Go Hiking With The Family in Banff National Park, Canada

Banff National Park, located in the Canadian Rockies, is a hiker’s paradise. With over 1,600 kilometers of hiking trails, there are endless opportunities to explore the stunning scenery and diverse landscapes of the park. From short walks to multi-day backpacking trips, there’s a trail for every level of hiker. Here’s everything you need to know about hiking in Banff.

Trail Difficulty Levels

Banff’s hiking trails are divided into four categories based on their difficulty level: easy, moderate, difficult, and very difficult. Easy trails are suitable for families with young children or for those who prefer a leisurely walk. Moderate trails are a bit more challenging, while difficult and very difficult trails require experience and proper equipment.

Hiking Safety Tips in Banff

While hiking in Banff can be a rewarding and unforgettable experience, it’s important to take safety precautions. Here are some tips to help you stay safe on the trails:

  • Always check the weather forecast and trail conditions before heading out.
  • Bring enough food and water for the duration of your hike.
    • Dress in layers and bring rain gear, as weather can change quickly in the mountains.
    • Carry bear spray and know how to use it in case of a bear encounter.
  • Stay on designated trails and follow all park regulations.

Best Hiking Trails in Banff National Park:

With so many hiking trails to choose from, it can be hard to decide where to start. Here are some of the best trails in Banff National Park:

Plain of Six Glaciers

The Plain of Six Glaciers trail is a moderate hike that offers stunning views of glaciers, mountains, and turquoise lakes. The trail is 14.6 kilometers round trip and takes approximately 4-6 hours to complete.

Johnston Canyon

The Johnston Canyon trail is an easy hike that follows a picturesque canyon and leads to two waterfalls. The trail is 5.2 kilometers round trip and takes approximately 1-2 hours to complete.

Sentinel Pass

The Sentinel Pass trail is a difficult hike that rewards hikers with panoramic views of mountains and glaciers. The trail is 11.6 kilometers round trip and takes approximately 6-8 hours to complete.

Larch Valley and Sentinel Pass

The Larch Valley and Sentinel Pass trail is a very difficult hike that offers stunning views of fall foliage and the surrounding mountains. The trail is 20 kilometers round trip and takes approximately 8-10 hours to complete.

Hiking in Banff National Park is an incredible experience for all levels of hikers. With a variety of trails to choose from, hikers can explore the park’s stunning scenery and diverse landscapes. So, pack your bags, lace up your hiking boots, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in the Canadian Rockies.

Photo by Kowshik Roy sagor on Unsplash

Photo by Ampersand Studios on Unsplash

Ten Ways to Prepare for When You Go Boating With Your Family

Boating can be a great adventure to do with your family. You can spend long days on the lake or sea and make memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you are just going for a day trip or a longer term water-bound adventure, it’s important to remember the basics and always use common sense. Here are ten things you really need to think about in order to have a safe and fun time boating with your family

1) Safety on Boats Comes First

The most important thing to keep in mind when taking kids boating is safety. Make sure everyone is wearing a properly fitting life jacket and know the rules for boating safety. Talk to the kids about not goofing around on board and that things can happen. Make sure they always have those vests on and that everyone understands this is not just playing in the backyard. Also make sure they are wearing shoes that are appropriate to grip the deck and no running on deck!

2) Always Use Sun Protection

The sun can be intense on the water, so make sure to bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect your children from harmful UV rays. Sun that is reflecting off the water can be extra intense so make sure you bring a fairly high sunblock and re-apply often. Make sure to buy sun block that is waterproof and also look for the kind that does not affect reef life. Also, bring plenty of hats and a good rash guard will also help keep away those painfun sunburns that are no fun for anyone.

And in case someone does get a sunburn, make sure you have plenty of cooling products to reduce the pain and peeling of a sunburn.

3) Check the Weather When Boating

Always check the weather forecast before heading out on the water. Avoid boating during storms or high winds. It’s super important to understand what the forecast is for that day and for your planned route. Weather on the water can change fairly quickly, so check before you leave and then make sure you have a working device, whether a radio or phone, and keep checking on it throughout the day.

4) Bring the Water and the Snacks

Bring plenty of water and healthy snacks to keep your kids hydrated and energized throughout the day. Along with water it’s good to keep handy drinks and powders that include electrolytes since you can lose alot of them through sweating all day on board. Healthy snacks that keep the kids energized but not weighed down are the best bet. Fruit, carrot sticks, pretzels, nuts, popcorn are all great snacks for a day on the boat. And if you have a kitchen on your boat, make sure to stock it with the usual kid friendly food like chicken strips, turkey and cheese for sandwiches, and OK, can’t forget the mac and cheese.

5) Choose Fun Side Activities for Boating

Choose age-appropriate activities for your kids, such as fishing, swimming, or water sports. If you have a speed boat or a boat that can tow people, there are tons of water toys you can bring along. You can bring along a tube that can pull multiple kids, waterskis, snorkel gear and even mermaid tails.

6) Get Educated About Boating

Consider taking a boating safety course before heading out on the water with your kids. Knowing the basics of boating safety can help ensure a fun and safe experience.

7) Don’t Forget the Life Jackets

Make sure that your children are wearing life jackets that are the correct size and fit snugly. It’s best to spend the extra money on the right gear. Ones that are easy to swim with and still give you good buoyancy are the best to have on board. If you are renting a boat and the life jackets come with it, then make sure they are secure and pulled tightly around your child. Make sure the belt is also secure around the legs so that when in the water, it will not ride up too high around your child. And most importantly, don’t only rely on the life vest, Make sure your child knows how to swim and tread water before even going out on a boat.

8) Boating Rules and Regulations

Be familiar with the local boating rules and regulations, including speed limits, no-wake zones, and boating licenses. If you are renting a boat, make sure you go over all the details about how to operate the boat, where the lights are, and how to keep an eye on the gas. Also where to fill up and how to fill up the boat with gas is also important.

9) Always Have an Emergency Plan

Develop an emergency plan before you go out on the water with your children. Make sure everyone knows what to do in case of an emergency. Know where the first aid kit is, make sure it’s stocked. Make sure all your phones are charged and it would be a good idea to have an extra charger. And go over it ahead of time with the kids so they stay calm and understand what to do in an emergency. Make sure they keep their life jackets on the whole time they are on the boat.

10) Never Take Your Eyes Off Them

Always supervise your children when they are on the boat or in the water. Keep an eye on them at all times, especially if they are swimming or playing in the water. Make sure you can reach them if you need to. If they are young don’t let them go into the water without you. Also, it’s best not to rely too much on floaties. Make sure they at least have had a few swimming lessons and are comfortable in water over their heads before taking them out on a boat.

Picture Credit: Jonath Jo 

Family Ski Vacation: Okemo Mountain Resort, Vermont

Ski at Okemo Mountain Resort

I like Okemo because it’s not Killington. Don’t get me wrong, I love Killington, but Okemo Mountain Resort has a family friendly vibe AND it’s just a little bit further down the path than Killington.Okemo Mountain Resort Ski
So while everyone’s heading to Killington and meeting up at the Wobbly Barn to party (I still can’t believe that thing has not come down), head over to Okemo for the same great snow without the volume of humanity that you get at Killington.

Located in the heart of Central Vermont’s Green Mountains, Okemo offers eight different properties, all with their own character and charm. Okemo Mountain Resort has plenty of trails for all abilities.

Okemo has:

  • 121 trails and glades
  • 667 acres of terrain
  • 96% of trails covered by snowmaking
  • Novice 32% Intermediate 36% Advanced/ Expert 31%Vertical Drop: 2,200 feet (most vertical in southern Vermont)
  • Base Elevation: 1,144 feet
  • Summit Elevation: 3,344 feet
  • 1 high-speed six-pack bubble chair with heated seats
  • 9 quad chairs (4 highspeed quads)
  • 3 triple chairs
  • 7 surface lifts
    Okemo map

Other cool things to do at Okemo:

Snowcat Excursions

Ever watched those snow cats go up at night to groom the hill and get a twinge of jealousy? Some brilliant person came up with a way to make everyone happy. See the mountain from the view from inside a specially-designed cabin, attached to an Okemo snowcat! See the top of the mountain, and the valley below like you’ve never seen it before, lit up at night.

Each ride departs from the Jackson Gore base area and will last just over one hour, with time to get out at the summit, take pictures and learn a bit about the mountain and the area along the way. You must register in advance to take in this incredible experience, and we will begin offering rides as soon as weather permits.

Ride a Mountain Coaster

The Timber Ripper Mountain Coaster is Central Vermont’s favorite four-season attraction, offering a scenic and exhilarating ride through alpine forests and along the contours of the mountain at Okemo’s Jackson Gokemo coasterore. The roller coaster ride heads down 3100 feet of track following the contours of the mountain with added waves, camel back and banking loops down the mountain, at up to 25 miles an hour. Sled-like cars carry two passengers in comfort but can be handled easily by one alone. The riders are in control of the speed, and this gives them a unique hands-on experience, encouraging repeat visits.

Guests will load and unload the Timber Ripper in the Jackson Gore base area, near the bottom of the Coleman Brook Express lift.

Click here for more information on the Okemo Mountain Resort.

 

Family Ski Vacation: Stowe Mountain, Vermont

Stowe Mountain, Vermont

Stowe Mountain Resort is just totally lux and I got very used to having the ski valets run up to me at the end of my run and grab my skis, tag them and whisk them away to storage. The next morning they were magically waiting for me. At $400 a night the rooms were not cheap, but the views were stellar, the restaurant food superb, and the spa was ultra relaxing. Our in-room fireplace made it the perfect evening with a blustery snow storm just outside.

Stowe Mountain Resort, is the definition of the luxury Eastern resort, and provides quality skiing and riding for all levels of family abilities. The area’s lift system includes a gondola to shuttle guests between Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s highest peak, and its “sister” mountain, Spruce Peak.

Mt. Mansfield  gets 333 inches of average annual snowfall that falls over it’s 2,360 foot vertical drop and 485 acres of skiable terrain.

The Stowe Mountain Lodge, located in the base village, is a 312 room luxury hotel and spa that has been recognized as one of the greenest, most sustainable luxury hotels in the world.

Family Ski Vacation: Mammoth Resort

Mammoth Mountain

Located in the southwest corner of the volcanic Long Valley Caldera on the eastern edge of California’s Sierra Nevada Mountain Range; Mammoth Mountain reaches over 3,500 skiable acres and a 3,100ft vertical drop.

The mountain is blessed with over 400 inches of snowfall a year and it’s the highest elevation in California at a neck-bending height of 11,053ft.

The modern resort has world class terrain options, and an ski season that can sometimes last into July.


Family Vacation Destination: Waterville Valley Resort

Waterville Valley is a nice, quiet, uber-family friendly resort nestled in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. The best part of the resort is that everything is right there where you need it, no need for driving around. In the winter there’s skiing on four differenwaterville valley resort in new hampshire, family friendly vacationt peaks, and in the summer there’s plenty to do as well.

It has a town square, places to dine, pool, fitness centers, shopping and has that special, New England country resort feel. It’s a little bit dirty dancing, a little bit Tremblant, but on a smaller scale. Trailmap for waterville valley resort in new hampshire

There are 50 trails, 4000 foot elevation and plenty of terrain parks. There’s also the option of going Nordic to break up the week. You can also take the kids tubing and even dog sledding.

It’s a great place to reconnect with family and the outdoors.

Check out their site for more information on Waterville Valley Resort. waterville valley resort, a great family destination in winter or summer