Banff National Park, located in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, is a stunning destination for families with children of all ages. From hiking and biking to wildlife viewing and hot springs, there are plenty of fun activities for families to enjoy. Here are some of the best things to do with kids in Banff.
Hiking
Banff National Park offers some of the best hiking trails in the world. With trails for all levels, families can enjoy a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike to the top of a mountain. The easy trail around Johnson Lake is a popular choice for families, while the trail to the top of Sulphur Mountain offers stunning views of the surrounding area. Here’s our How to on Hiking in Banff, Canada
Wildlife Viewing
Banff is home to a variety of wildlife, including elk, deer, bighorn sheep, and even grizzly bears. Families can take a guided tour or explore on their own to spot these magnificent creatures. The Bow Valley Parkway is a great place to start, as it offers easy access to prime wildlife viewing areas.
Hot Springs
After a long day of hiking and exploring, families can relax in the Banff Upper Hot Springs. The hot springs offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and are a great way to soothe sore muscles.
Canoeing and Kayaking
Families can explore the beautiful lakes and rivers of Banff National Park by canoe or kayak. Canoes and kayaks can be rented at several locations in the park, including Lake Louise and the Bow River.
Skiing and Snowboarding
During the winter months, families can hit the slopes at one of Banff’s three ski resorts: Mount Norquay, Sunshine Village, and Lake Louise Ski Resort. The resorts offer a variety of terrain for all levels of skiers and snowboarders.
Banff National Park is an excellent destination for families looking for an adventure. With hiking trails, wildlife viewing, hot springs, canoeing, and skiing, there’s something for everyone. So, pack your bags, grab your kids, and get ready for an unforgettable experience in the Canadian Rockies.
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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!
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.
Looking for an exciting way to spend time with your kids? Why not take them on an outdoor adventure? Not only will you get to bond with your little ones, but you’ll also be able to enjoy nature’s beauty and get some fresh air.
Here are some tips to help you plan your next adventure:
Choose a Kid-Friendly Destination
When selecting a destination for your adventure, it’s important to consider your children’s interests and abilities. Pick a place where they can explore and have fun, such as a nature reserve, hiking trail, or even a local park.
Pack Plenty of Snacks and Water
Kids can get grumpy when they’re hungry, so make sure you pack plenty of snacks and water for the journey. Granola bars, trail mix, and fruit are all great options for fueling up your little explorers.
Dress for Success
Make sure your kids are dressed appropriately for the weather and the activity you have planned. If you’re going on a hike, comfortable shoes and breathable clothing are a must. If you’re going to be near water, don’t forget to pack swimsuits and towels.
Kids love games, so make your adventure into one! Create a scavenger hunt, where your children have to find different plants, animals, and other natural features. Alternatively, you could play “I Spy,” with your children taking turns to spot different things in the environment.
Take Plenty of Breaks
Kids have shorter attention spans than adults, so it’s important to take plenty of breaks during your adventure. Use these breaks to snack, rest, or even play a game. This will help keep your kids engaged and energized throughout the day.
Taking your kids on an outdoor adventure can be a fun and memorable experience for the whole family. Just remember to choose a kid-friendly destination, pack plenty of snacks and water, dress appropriately, make it a game, and take plenty of breaks. Happy adventuring!
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.
Want to do something adventurous with your family but stuck on ideas? Here are ten things you can do to make your time with your kids exciting. Try any or all of the following:
1) Camping
Spend a weekend in the great outdoors, teach your kids how to pitch a tent, start a campfire, and explore the wilderness together.
2) Hiking
Take a scenic hike in the mountains or in a nearby nature reserve. It’s a great way to get some exercise and fresh air, and it’s also an opportunity to teach your kids about the environment and wildlife.
3) Rock Climbing
For the more adventurous families, rock climbing can be a fun and challenging activity. Look for local climbing gyms or outdoor climbing sites to get started.
4) White Water Rafting
For the ultimate adrenaline rush, try white water rafting with your kids. It’s a thrilling way to experience the power of nature and teamwork.
5) Zip Lining
Zip lining is a fun and exciting way to see the world from a different perspective. Many parks and adventure centers offer zip line courses for families.
6) Scavenger Hunt
Create a scavenger hunt in your backyard or at a local park. It’s a fun way to get outside and explore, and it can also help develop problem-solving skills.
7) Kayaking or Canoeing
Paddle down a river or lake with your kids in a kayak or canoe. It’s a relaxing and peaceful way to experience the outdoors.
8) Surfing or Paddleboarding
If you live near the coast, try surfing or paddleboarding with your kids. It’s a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the ocean waves.
9) Geocaching
Geocaching is a treasure-hunting game that uses GPS coordinates to find hidden caches. It’s a fun and educational activity for the whole family.
10) Horseback Riding
Take a trail ride on horseback through a scenic countryside or a nearby forest. It’s a unique way to experience nature and bond with your kids.
Lakes can be dangerous for kids who don’t know how to swim or are inexperienced swimmers. Always supervise your children when they’re in or around the water, and consider having them wear a properly fitted life jacket at all times. Teach them about water safety, including the dangers of rip currents, sudden drop-offs, and underwater hazards.
2) Sun protection:
The sun’s rays can be intense on the water, so make sure to apply sunscreen to your children’s skin and have them wear hats and sunglasses to protect their eyes and face.
3) Water quality
Check the water quality before taking your children to the lake. Avoid swimming in areas where the water is murky or there are signs of algae blooms or pollution.
4) Boating safety
If you plan on boating, make sure to follow all boating safety rules and regulations, including wearing life jackets and avoiding excessive speed. Children should be supervised at all times and follow appropriate boating rules.
5) Hydration and snacks
Bring plenty of water and healthy snacks to keep your children hydrated and energized throughout the day. Heat and sun exposure can cause dehydration, so make sure your kids are drinking plenty of fluids. Also, avoid feeding them sugary snacks that can cause an energy crash.
So we came across this very unusual exhibit while we were in Venice, Italy called the Authentic Human at the Palazzo Zaguri. We decided to check it out and were both amazed and a little freaked out. The exhibit actually takes real human bodies that I assume have been donated to science, and they were dehydrated and manipulated to follow the anatomical drawings that Leonardo did, including the Vitruvian Man. Many of the illustrations came from the royal family of England. The exhibit can be a little disturbing but it’s amazing to see the detail revealed underneath the skin in the human body and I highly recommend it for older kids who are taking human anatomy or art students who need to understand the underworkings of the human body. Click here to learn more about Authentic Humans.
It’s definitely something I don’t think we’d ever see in the states but maybe I’m wrong. Either way, it’s definitely something to see. Make sure you have a chat with your kids first because these are real human beings who are now part of the exhibits so they should be respectful of that.
From the museum’s website, “For the first time in the world an exhibition with real anatomical findings inspired by Leonardo da Vinci’s drawings and anatomical studies. An extraordinary and unprecedented journey to discover the human body through the eyes of universal genius.”
According to the museum exhibit, “From the most famous drawings by Leonardo Da Vinci, some anatomical works have been reproduced: “Figure in orgasm”, “Vitruvian”, “Embryological study” and many others.”
https://www.palazzozaguri.it/en/leonardo/
The Venice show has closed but for information on more Authentic Human Body Exhibits go to:
So before I my daughter I had been scuba diving for years. I couldn’t wait to get her certified one day as I envisioned being under the sea with exploring fish and seeing turtles and finding big Caribbean lobsters together. It took me awhile to get around to it, but after Covid I said that’s it. Let’s go live!
Getting Started in Scuba
We had done one recreational walk in dive at Cokie Beack with Cokie Beach divers, which was so much fun. They gave us a dog biscuit in the water and we watched the little fish go nuts. Got some great shots. That got Morgan comfortable with the idea and ready to go for more.
Getting an Open Water Certification
We made an appt with the local dive shop up on 90th street. Met a really nice man who walked us through the paperwork, and then fit my daughter for gear. He found her a great mask that fit her eyesight. He walked her through the program and gave her her new PADI book.
When I took scuba you had to do all the lessons in a classroom and then do the other half in the pool. Now you’re able to do it online. So she went through all the online lessons with PADI and once she had passed everything she was ready to go to the pool. They had two nights of pool training and she loved it. As I sat up in the bleachers I was so proud watching her work with her group. Since it’s NYC, we walk everywhere, so we walked home smelling like chlorine and hungry. We had some great conversations talking about everything she learned.
Certification Dives in St. Thomas, Virgin Islands
So while the dive shop offered local cert dives out in Dutch Springs, PA, we decided to do something a little more exotic. So I booked a trip to St Thomas and her cert dive with the Red Hook Dive shop.
I could not have been happier with the owners and the instructors. They really made us feel like home. We still had to wear masks inside the store and on the boat (unless we were eating or drinking) so we did so that we’d not get anyone in trouble. I went on three dives with another group while Morgan went off with the cutest scuba instructor and he put her through her paces.
Last Certification Dive
Her instructor invited me along for the last dive and we had a great time. He gave her his dive watch so that she could do orienteering. She led the dive and I got to watch her take us around the coral reef. She was a little fast and we had to keep up and very excited. I learned that it’s different to dive with an excited teenager. Twice she bumped me with her fins and banged in me and she almost lost her mask. So I learned I have to give a new diver a bit more leeway and also keep a close eye.
After that we had a great rest of the trip, sitting back in our room and looking through the GoPro videos. It was something I’ll never forget. Our hotel was up on a hill that had a million steps, but it was fun because there were iguanas all over the place.
Here’s our favorite Dive shops. Highly recommend. And Adventure Scuba does all their training at Asphalt Green in NYC, which has a beautiful, huge pool.
Here Are Our Dive Centers that We Highly Recommend
Are you are like me, with a teen at home who is constantly on her phone? And you might even be worrying that she or he might be spending too much time on that phone? You want to get him or her out doing something a bit more adventurous, amIright? Does it make you climb the walls?
Well, I have a great idea. Instead of you climbing the walls, let’s get them climbing the walls. OK you can too if you want. Here in NYC it’s a little on the cold side and my daughter likes to use that as an excuse to do nothing but draw, listen to music, text etc. It’s also the holiday break so amazingly she doesn’t have a ton of homework to do.
Indoor Rock Climbing
I had enough looking at her laying around so I signed her up for a $50 group lesson at Steep Rock Bouldering on the Upper East side in NYC that covered the day’s admission and shoe rental. It turned out even better because no one else showed up for the lessons so we had the instructor to ourselves.
Morgan started out all gung ho thinking it was going to be easy. She did well for the first twenty minutes and then kept shaking out her hands. Since the most exercise her arms has gotten lately is texting her ligaments up and down her arms were screaming at her. It’s OK though, she’s pretty psyched and wants to go back next week. I’m going to get a $22 day pass myself and we will climb together. If we like it we can sign up for a monthly fee or right now I can buy a 10 punch pass special for $150 that is normally $200.
Morgan, trying out the different handholds with her instructor.
The place is pretty chill and the walls aren’t crazy high so there’s no need to be on belay. You just put your climbing shoes on and head on up. The handholds are color coded from easy to hard and you follow the route based on the difficulty. So you can spider your way all over the walls all day if you want. There’s a nice big pad at the bottom and a little bit of a gym to work on your upper body strength.
Good for Your Kid’s Back Muscles
My daughter is totally psyched to go back next weekend and is thinking of signing up for the after school program. I think it’s great since it’s way cheaper than skiing, which is the only other thing I can get her out of the house for in the winter. She’s also really excited because at school she has to drag around a really big backpack and she thinks this might give her a chance to stretch out and build up her back and shoulder muscles a bit more. I haven’t seen her this excited about something in awhile so I’m looking forward to going with her next Sunday and hanging out on the walls with her.
Morgan and her instructor discussing strategy while waiting for the feeling in her fingers to come back, while indoor rock climbing in NYC.
And my daughter has asthma so she’s been a bit worried about sports that make her wheeze. This didn’t make her wheeze at all and she could go at her own speed.
If you’d like to get your child into bouldering check out what’s available in your area. If you are in the New York City Area, Steep Rock Bouldering has two locations, one on the upper east side and one on the west. For pricing and classes, check it out here.
