Best National Parks for Grandparents and Grandkids: Family Friendly Outdoor Adventures

Yellowstone National Park – An Amazing National Park for Grandparents and Grandkids

Yellowstone is one of the best national parks for grandparents and grandkids. This captivating national park offers real-life science lessons at every turn. And yet, your grandkids won’t realize they are learning something during your multigenerational vacation.

You can’t visit Yellowstone National Park and not take the time to watch Old Faithful erupt. There is no steep hiking required to reach this geyser. So, check out the eruption times for the day of your visit. Then watch the magic happen right in front of your eyes!

The grandkids will love participating in the Junior Ranger Program at Yellowstone. Help them complete the activities, so they can earn a badge.

Of course, you can’t skip past some of the other must-see destinations within this family-friendly national park. I recommend taking the time to check out the Grand Prismatic Spring, Yellowstone Lake, and Mammoth Hot Springs.

Check out the best things to see in Yellowstone National Park for your next multigenerational vacation. 

Acadia National Park

If you are looking for the best national park for kids on the east coast, I recommend Acadia National Park. This beautiful park offers mountain views combined with gorgeous views of the nearby ocean.

Wander around the carriage roads within this national park for grandparents and grandkids. No cars are allowed on these roads. So, they are perfect for walking and biking. Jordan Pond Path is another scenic trail that is perfect for little, and older, feet.

Kids of all ages will love searching for sea creatures while tide pooling at Bar Harbor. You can watch your grandkids having fun with the sea creatures, as you drink your coffee. Or you can get into the water with them to create even more memories.

If your grandkids are early risers, watch the sunrise from Cadillac Mountain. It’s an amazing way to start your day.

Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is at the top of almost everyone’s list of destinations to visit. You may be tempted to skip this national park for this reason. However, as one of the best family friendly national parks in the world, you will regret that decision.

The South Rim is your best option for a multigenerational vacation. Everyone will love walking along the mostly flat and paved Rim Trail.

During a ride along Desert View Drive, you can stop at historical sites and scenic overlooks. And the kids will love riding the old-fashioned train from Williams to the canyon on the Grand Canyon Railway.

The Junior Ranger Program at the Grand Canyon is quite interactive. The kids will spend hours completing the activities to earn their badge.

When the kids want to purchase souvenirs to take home, venture over to Hopi House or Lookout Studio. They offer the best souvenirs.

And if you stay at the Grand Canyon until later in the evening, head to Mather Point. The sunsets there are incredible.

Great Smoky Mountains – One of the Best National Parks for Grandparents and Grandkids

When you are searching for the best national parks for grandparents and grandkids, the Great Smoky Mountains should be near the top of your list. After all, this is one of the most visited national parks in the US. Which isn’t surprising since it is full of waterfalls, wildlife, and wildflowers.

A walk along the paved trail to the Clingmans Dome Observation Tower will lead to amazing views of the park. There are benches at the top. So, you will have places to sit after this slight uphill trek.

The kids will love stepping back in time while visiting the Mountain Farm Museum. And you will all love seeing how people lived and worked back in the 1800s.

Plenty of deer and black bears are visible when you drive along Cades Cove Loop Road.

Other must-see spots within this family-friendly national park include Laurel Falls Trail and the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail.

Check out these other multigenerational vacation ideas. 

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park – An Excellent National Park for Grandparents and Grandkids

Sometimes you need to fly a little further during your multigenerational vacation to see an incredible national park. Over on the Big Island of Hawaii, you will find lots to see throughout Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. This unique park is packed with cultural heritage, lava tubes, and volcanoes.

Start your visit by exploring the lava fields and steam vents along the Crater Rim Drive. Over at Nāhuku, walk through a real lava tube. I recommend taking flashlights with you to experience the best this lava tube has to offer.

Other must-see destinations within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park include the Halema’uma’u Crater Overlook, Jaggar Museum, and the Kilauea Visitor Center.

Everglades National Park

Animal lovers will want to spend hours within this national park for grandparents and grandkids. I recommend taking at least one of the ranger-led programs. These programs will allow you and your grandkids to learn quite a bit more about the Everglades and the wildlife that lives there.

Gators and birds are everywhere in the Everglades. And you can see many of them during the Shark Valley Tram Tour. The Anhinga Trail is another option if you don’t mind walking to see the local wildlife.

I recommend visiting the Eco Pond at dusk. Bring binoculars to see the different wildlife up close.

Shenandoah National Park

One of the best activities for grandparents and grandkids at Shenandoah National Park is driving along Skyline Drive. This ride offers more than one hundred miles of scenic overlooks.

If you, and your grandkids, prefer walking, venture over to the Limberlost Trail. This accessible loop will take you through a lush forest. Plus, there are other birdwatching, and wildflower walks you will enjoy for the peaceful moments they give you.

The hike to Dark Hollow Falls is a little steep. However, it is manageable for many people. And at night, head over to Big Meadows to stargaze or capture a firefly or two.

Check out the best destinations for multigenerational travel for 2025. 

Rocky Mountain National Park

A visit to Rocky Mountain National Park is a breathtaking experience for people of all ages. I recommend starting your journey through this family-friendly national park by visiting the Alpine Visitor Center. It is full of educational exhibits that share what you need to know about different areas of this park.

If you are searching for something unique to do during your multigenerational vacation in the Rocky Mountains, let me recommend a drive along the Trail Ridge Road. It is one of the highest paved roads in the US. So, it will feel like you are driving on top of the world.

Walking along Bear Lake Loop will allow you to take numerous Instagram-worthy pictures. This loop is flat and only a mile long. Therefore, even your youngest grandchild should be able to walk it without a problem.

Other must-see destinations within this national park include Sprague Lake and Moraine Park.

Exploring national parks with your grandkids is more than just a vacation. It’s an opportunity to create stories that span generations. These national parks for grandparents and grandkids offer the perfect mix of scenic beauty, kid-friendly adventures, and accessible fun for everyone. Each national park will invite you to slow down, reconnect, and experience the magic of the outdoors.

So, are you ready to start planning your next multigenerational vacation to one of these national parks?

If you said yes, I would like to invite you to click here to schedule a personalized planning session with me. Clicking this link will take you directly to my digital calendar to schedule a time that is convenient for you.

Not ready to start planning a trip with the grandkids just yet? Sign up for my newsletter and continue to receive all the travel information I share.

The post Best National Parks for Grandparents and Grandkids: Family Friendly Outdoor Adventures appeared first on integritylawfirmcmr.com.

Family Vacation in the Southeast? Make Memories at These Historic Sites

Old Fort Jackson in Savannah, Georgia

If you are truly a history buff, you must take a family vacation in Savannah. It is one of the most historical cities in this part of the country.

Old Fort Jackson happens to be the oldest brick fortification in the entire state that is still in one piece. You will find this fort on the Savannah River. It is best to take a tour of the fort and the surrounding area during your family vacation in the southeast.

Consider visiting these Stranger Things filming locations during your family vacation in Georgia. 

Roosevelt’s Little White House State Historic Site in Warm Springs, Georgia

A visit to this historic attraction in Georgia will have you learning quite a bit about President Roosevelt and the town.

The spring waters here are said to have healing qualities. So, take the time to soak in one of the springs, while talking and laughing with your family.

When you are not soaking in nearby springs, you can check out the Memorial Fountain, the Walk of Flags and Stone, and the Unfinished Portrait.

Check out these other incredible destinations in the southeast for a family vacation. 

Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Park in Hodgenville, Kentucky

As you are considering a family vacation in the southeast, you will find yourself wondering which areas are worthy of your time. Well, Hodgenville, Kentucky may not be at the top of your list at first. Until you realize that Abraham Lincoln was born there.

You will find a replica of the house that Abraham Lincoln grew up in at 2995 Lincoln Farm Road. This replica currently serves as a memorial building.

The Sinking Spring is near Lincoln’s childhood home. That spring is what brought water to Lincoln’s home all those years ago.

Elkmont Ghost Town in Gatlinburg, Tennessee – Unique Family Vacation in the Southeast

Elkmont Ghost Town is quite the historical destination in Tennessee. And since it is supposedly haunted, your family will quickly put it near the top of your list of places to consider for your family vacation in the southeast.

The Little River Lumber Company turned Elkmont into a logging town. And then vacation homes were eventually constructed on this land.

However, once the national park was established, the residents needed to obtain leases on the homes they owned. Since the leases expired back in 1992, many of the homes have been left vacant. That turned the area into its own little ghost town. While a few houses were demolished, others are in the process of being restored and renovated for people to see.

Check out these other ghost towns in the southeast. 

The Cabildo in New Orleans, Louisiana

The Cabildo was the colonial government building constructed by the Spanish government back in the late 1700s. Currently, it is home to the Louisiana State Museum.

Of course, The Cabildo isn’t the only interesting place to see during a family vacation in the southeast. Other attractions on your family vacation itinerary should include Mardi Gras World, Jackson Square, and the French Market.

Don’t forget to stroll around the different quarters. And eat beignets by the dozen!

Peaches Corner Café in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina – Perfect Family Vacation in the Southeast

So, I couldn’t give you a list of historical places to visit without adding one that serves food! The Peaches Corner Café opened back in 1937. And it has been serving up local cuisine since that time!

This charming and historical café is on Ocean Boulevard. While their breakfasts are good, it is their lunches that will have you going back for more!

You can easily eat at this cafe numerous times during your family vacation in the southeast if you choose to spend time in Myrtle Beach.

Planning a family vacation in the southeast during the winter months? Check out these amazing activities that will have you creating memories to last a lifetime. 

Rainbow Row in Charleston, South Carolina

Rainbow Row used to be a rundown area after the Civil War. It was restored and turned into one of the most beautiful landmarks in the city. You will find this Charleston historic attraction over on East Bay Street.

These are some of the best historic sites you must check out when planning your family vacation in the southeast. Some of them offer more history than others. Since there are so many, you can easily choose the ones you want to see the most. Those alone will fill your itinerary. And you will have plenty of time for the sun and the sand at the beach too!

Click here to learn a few fun facts about South Carolina for your next family vacation. 

Are you ready to add a little history to your next family vacation in the southeast? I have so many ideas for you! Let’s set up a time to talk today, so you can be down in the southeast sooner than later. After all, these years with your family are precious, and you won’t want to miss a second!

So, are you ready to book a family vacation in the southeast to visit a few of these historic sites?

If you said yes, I would like to invite you to schedule a planning session with me by clicking here. Clicking the link will take you directly to my digital calendar to schedule a time that is convenient for you.

And if you are not ready to book a family vacation in the southeast, you can sign up for my newsletter here. This will ensure you receive all the travel information I share in the future.

The post Family Vacation in the Southeast? Make Memories at These Historic Sites appeared first on integritylawfirmcmr.com.

Grand Teton Winter Safari: An Amazing Family Adventure

Winter Safari Options

A Grand Teton Winter Safari tour can be a half-day or a full day. I prefer the full-day tour option, because it allows you to really immerse yourself in the local environment.

However, if your family vacation time is limited, a half-day is still going to give you the memories you are searching for.

A full-day Grand Teton winter safari will begin with breakfast. Afterward, you will venture into Grand Teton National Park, as well as the National Elk Refuge. So many animals live within these two areas. Imagine seeing elk, bison, moose, deer, wolves, big horn sheep, and bald eagles in their natural habitat.

Lunch is provided at a local restaurant. After your meal, your time will be spent either back in the park or at the National Museum of Wildlife Art.

Before your winter safari is over, you will take a sleigh ride through the National Elk Refuge.

Check out these other adventures your family can have inside Grand Teton National Park. 

When it the Grand Teton Winter Safari?

Your family can enjoy the Grand Teton Winter Safari from November through April. The sleigh rides do not usually begin until December. They are all dependent on the weather and the amount of snowfall.

The best part about these winter safaris is that they are always small. There are no more than eight people within the group. So, there is a chance your family will be the only ones participating when you are visiting.

Other safari destinations right here in the US you should consider for your next family vacation.

It is important to note everyone in your group must be at least eight years of age to participate in the Grand Teton Winter Safari. There is no age limit for private winter safaris. Therefore, those will be the best option if you are traveling with smaller children.

The Grand Teton winter safari is just one of the many options in this part of the country. But do not feel like you are limited to this one thing while on a family vacation. I have so many other options to add to your next Grand Teton National Park vacation, as well as every other family vacation you want to take in the future.

So, are you ready to have me plan your family vacation and include the winter safari?

If you said yes, I would like to invite you to schedule a planning session with me by clicking here. Clicking the link will take you directly to my digital calendar to schedule a time that is convenient for you.

And if you aren’t ready to book your next family vacation in Grand Teton, you can sign up for my newsletter here. This will ensure you continue to receive all the travel information I share.

The post Grand Teton Winter Safari: An Amazing Family Adventure appeared first on integritylawfirmcmr.com.

Must-See National Parks in the Southwest for Your Winter Family Vacation

Zion National Park

Zion National Park brings slightly warmer temperatures to those looking to vacation in the southwest. This mountainous area doesn’t see the extreme cold temperatures that other national parks do during the winter months. Despite being warm at this park, you will notice that there is a lot of precipitation. All the snow, and subsequent ice, can close trails for days at a time.

Therefore, it is best to have a couple different backup plans in place if you do decide to visit Zion National Park during the winter months. You won’t regret your choice of destination though, because the views are even more dramatic when snow is settling on the red rocks and the surrounding area.

Love the mountains?? Check out these other family friendly mountain vacation destinations! 

Bryce Canyon 

Bryce Canyon National Park can be found in the state of Utah. It may be cold inside this southwest national park during the winter, but you won’t notice it. Instead, you will notice all the fluffy white snow in stark contrast to the red rocks. Time inside this national park during the winter will have you experiencing one extreme to the next, whether with the weather or the activities you do.

I recommend packing clothing for the cold and making sure it is all waterproof. These items will ensure you can head out on the trails for skiing, snowshoeing, hiking, and so much more. As we are planning your family vacation in Bryce Canyon National Park itinerary, there is one thing we cannot leave off. That is the full-moon snowshoe hikes. Yes, you will need to plan your visit according to the full moon to squeeze them in. However, it will be worth it for the beauty you see under the stars.

Looking for more winter fun for your family vacation?? Check out these winter family activities in Grand Teton! 

Grand Canyon

The southwest national park can be busy year-round. The winter months do bring slightly fewer people to Grand Canyon National Park. However, all those people are at the South Rim since the North Rim closes during the winter. The weather at this park can change in seconds, so it is always wise to pack for the cold, warmth, and the elements.

You can easily hike the trails within Grand Canyon National Park. But if you don’t feel like being outside for that long, you can always take a bus tour instead.

Check out these amazing family friendly activities at the Grand Canyon! 

These must-see national parks in the southwest must be on your list for a winter family vacation! Only you know which one will be at the top of your list. And if you can’t figure it out, let me know. As a travel advisor, I can help you make a decision that your entire family will love!

So, are you ready to plan a family vacation to see the national parks in the southwest?

If you said yes, I would like to invite you to schedule a planning session with me by clicking here. When you click on this link, you will be taken directly to my digital calendar to schedule a time that is convenient for you.

And if you are not quite ready to start planning your next family vacation, make sure you sign up for my newsletter here. This will ensure you receive all the travel information I share.

The post Must-See National Parks in the Southwest for Your Winter Family Vacation appeared first on integritylawfirmcmr.com.

Great Lakes Vacations Perfect for Families 

Shipwrecks in Lake Superior 

A vacation near Lake Superior should be spent exploring the numerous shipwrecks located inside this freshwater lake. One of the most famous shipwrecks in this lake is The Bermuda. That ship was a schooner, and it sunk in 1870.  

I can easily arrange for your family to take one of the many shipwreck scuba diving tours. Those tours leave from the town of Munising, Michigan. If you don’t want to go diving, I recommend a glass-bottom boat tour.  

Hiking in Indiana Dunes National Park 

One of the best places to go hiking on a Great Lakes vacation is Indiana Dunes National Park. There are fifty miles of trails throughout this national park. Your family will love hiking along the sand dunes. Although, any trail is worthy of the steps you take.  

Relax in Leland 

Leland is a charming town in Michigan. You will find the town between the banks of Lake Leelanau and Lake Michigan. Leland is one of the best places to sit back and relax. Although, you will want to head towards the lake promenade to sample the freshly smoked fish.  

Kayak in Pictured Rocks National Park 

The cliffs surrounding Lake Superior are massive. One of the best ways to see those cliffs, and other unique rock formations, is by heading out on the water in a kayak. I can book a kayaking tour for your family. These tours go between Little Beaver Lake and Sand Point, which is a distance of fifteen miles.  

Go Remote in Isle Royale National Park 

Isle Royale National Park is comprised of one large island and four hundred smaller islands. The only way your family can reach this park is by boat or seaplane. There is a ton of wildlife within this national park.  

If you are looking for a place to get away from it all with your family, so you can make those memories that matter, Isle Royale National Park should be at the top of your list.  

Have Fun at Cedar Point Amusement Park 

Lake Erie seems to be the Great Lake that has it all. During your Great Lakes vacation, you can spend time on remote beaches and in charming towns. You may feel as if you have stepped back in time as you explore the area.  

However, your favorite part about staying in this area will be the opportunity to have fun at Cedar Point Amusement Park. And if you can tear your kids away from there, you can all go parasailing, wakeboarding, and kiteboarding out on the lake.  

See the Waterfalls at Gooseberry Falls National Park 

Some of the best waterfalls in Minnesota can be found within Gooseberry Falls National Park. Your family can follow almost any of the trails to reach those waterfalls. Take a picnic lunch with you so you can linger at your favorite waterfall a little longer.  

When you leave this park, head over to Split Rock Lighthouse. The views from the shoreline there are stunning.  

Kayak Around Apostle Islands National Park 

Apostle Islands National Park is comprised of twenty-one islands within Lake Superior. Head out in a kayak to explore the sea caves and view the cliffs from a different vantage point.  

Your family can also head out on the trails. Just keep an eye open for the black bears that live on the islands.  

These are the Great Lakes vacations that are perfect for families. Your family should love going on one of these Great Lakes vacations for your next family trip. Talk to your family and see which one interests everyone the most. Once you have your favorite, I can start personalizing your family vacation itinerary.  

So, are you ready to get your personalized family vacation itinerary for your next trip?  

If you said yes, I would like to invite you to click here for my personalized family vacation planning session. When you click on this link, you will be taken directly to my digital calendar to schedule a time that is convenient for you.  

Not ready for a personalized family vacation itinerary yet? Sign up for my newsletter to always receive the travel information I share.  

The post Great Lakes Vacations Perfect for Families appeared first on integritylawfirmcmr.com.

8 Incredible Things to Do in Rocky Mountain National Park in Winter 

Check Out the Wildlife  

You cannot spend time in the Rocky Mountains and not see the local wildlife. The winter months are the best time of the year to see elk. However, you can also spot moose and big horn sheep during your visit.  

Go Snowmobiling 

Over by Winter Park, you will find more than one thousand trails to zoom over on a snowmobile. These trails go through the forested areas of the park. There are plenty of snowmobile rentals nearby, so you can always find the ride you are looking for on your family vacation.  

A vacation in the Rocky Mountains during the winter usually means a little extra prep work. Check out my travel guide to planning a family vacation in the Rocky Mountains, and be prepared.

Take a Dip in a Hot Spring or Two 

The rest of your family might not care about soaking in a hot spring or two when you are on vacation in Rocky Mountain National Park. But you can send them out on their own while you get some relaxation in. If you are having difficulty determining which hot spring you should visit, let me recommend Radium Hot Springs, Hot Sulphur Springs, or Conundrum Hot Springs.  

Attend a Winter Festival 

There are so many different winter festivals and other events held in Colorado every year. You definitely won’t find a shortage of them near this national park. A few favorites include the International Snow Sculpture Championships, Steamboat Springs Winter Carnival, Ullr Fest in Breckenridge, Snow Daze in Vail, and Grand Lake’s Winter Carnival. You’ll even find the Catch the Glow Holiday Parade over in Estes Park.  

Go Skiing and Snowboarding 

There is no need to choose between skiing and snowboarding when you are on vacation in the Rockies. There are multiple resorts to choose from, and they all offer multiple trails for both these adventures.  

Take a Bus Tour of Rocky Mountain National Park 

There is no need to skip many of the sights in Rocky Mountain National Park because you are too busy or short on time. You can easily hop onto a tour bus to see the popular sights in a couple of hours.  

Take a Park Tour with a Ranger 

If you are looking for a slightly more personalized tour on your Rocky Mountain National Park vacation, I recommend scheduling a tour with a ranger. These are usually done on snowshoes as you walk through the park. You can even take advantage of the special full moon tours that are offered a few times a year.  

Go Sledding 

Kids of all ages love sledding, so grab those sleds and hit the sledding hills! There are sled rentals available throughout the park. You will even find a few warming huts to ensure you can all warm up when you need a break.  

These are eight incredible things to do in Rocky Mountain National Park in winter. You can choose to have all of them on your Rocky Mountain National Park vacation itinerary. Or you can choose a couple, and we can find other amazing activities your family will love.  

Are you ready to spend some snowy days in Colorado during a family vacation in Rocky Mountain National Park?  

If you said yes, I would like to invite you to schedule a planning session with me by clicking here. When you click on this link, you will be taken directly to my digital calendar to schedule a time that is convenient for you.   

And if you are not ready to book a family vacation in Rocky Mountain National Park, you can sign up for my newsletter here. This will ensure you continue to receive all the fabulous travel information I share.  

The post 8 Incredible Things to Do in Rocky Mountain National Park in Winter appeared first on integritylawfirmcmr.com.

Best Things to Do in the Southwest in the Fall

Visit the Grand Canyon

Yes, you can visit the Grand Canyon at any time of the year. But the month of October brings incredible weather and fewer people. It’s a win-win for your family because you won’t be dying from the heat or trying to escape the crowds. There are plenty of things you can do while on vacation at the Grand Canyon. Hiking will be the first thing on your list. But make sure you take the time to check out the sunrise at Mathers Point. I also recommend tackling Desert View Drive.

Take a Drive Up Mount Lemmon in Arizona

You may not think the leaves change colors in Arizona, but they actually do during the fall months. A drive up Mount Lemmon via the Sky Island Scenic Byway will have you falling in love with the gorgeous scenery. While there are lots of places to stop, you should make sure you have Marshall Gulch and Bear Wallow on your list.

Take a Hike Up Camelback Mountain

It is way too hot to hike up Camelback Mountain in Phoenix during the summer, but you can give it a try if you want! I prefer to tackle the 2,704 feet of elevation during the fall. There are two trails to choose from. Cholla Trail is one and a half miles in and back, while the Echo Canyon Trail is slightly more than a mile in and out.

Take an Off-Roading Trip on the Sand Dunes

Your teenagers will love you forever if you manage to add a little off-roading on sand dunes to your next family vacation. There are more than forty miles of dunes down by Yuma, so there is plenty of space for everyone. If you are not a fan of OHVs, you can always choose to ride via horseback along these same dunes.

Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride

There is no better place than Arizona to take a hot air balloon ride, so I suggest adding it to your itinerary when in this part of the country. You can choose to take one early in the morning as the sun comes up. Or you can do a sunset or moonlit ride. This can even be a romantic option with the love of your life when the kids are still asleep back at the hotel!

Go on a Spectacular Ghost Hunt

If your family loves a good ghost tour or ghost hunt, you must spend at least one day over in the town of Jerome. This city is one of the most haunted areas of the southwest. There are multiple ghost tour options available. Therefore, you can take as many as you want to during your visit.

Drive Along the Santa Fe National Forest Scenic Byway

The drive along this scenic byway is not short, and it will take you an entire day if you make a lot of stops. However, the scenery and experiences will make the sixteen-mile journey each way worthwhile. I recommend stopping for a hike or two along the way, as they are the best way to experience true New Mexico.

Check Out Palisades Sill

Palisades Sill can be found in the Cimarron Canyon State Park. This massive attraction is forty million years old. It stands at three hundred feet high and looks quite dramatic both in the distance and up close.

Take a Ride on the Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad

This scenic railroad offers the best train ride in the entire country. This railroad was constructed back in 1880. It currently has one of the last steam engines in operation. If you choose to add this train ride to your itinerary, you can see the views between Chama and Antonito. During your train journey, you will reach elevations of more than ten thousand feet.

Are you ready to experience all these things to do in the Southwest in the fall with your family?

If you said yes, I would like to invite you to schedule a planning session with me by clicking here. When you click on this link, you will be taken directly to my digital calendar to schedule a time that is convenient for you.

And if you are not quite ready to have a family vacation in the southwest this fall, you can sign up for my newsletter here. This will ensure you continue to receive all the travel information I share.

The post Best Things to Do in the Southwest in the Fall appeared first on integritylawfirmcmr.com.

Visiting the National Parks of Hawaii

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is the one national park that most people have heard about on the Hawaiian Islands. This park is located thirty miles to the southwest of Hilo. It is an excellent option when you are looking for a daylong activity on your family vacation.

While your family can see many different volcanoes on the Hawaiian Islands, the two most active ones are within the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Those two volcanoes are Mauna Loa and Kilauea. The latter has erupted in recent years, spewing hot lava everywhere and closing down sections of the park occasionally.

When you are inside this national park of Hawaii, you must do the following:

• Visit Kilauea Crater – You can see this from the Kilauea Visitor Center.
• Hike Through the Thurston Lava Tube – Walk through a lush tropical forest before reaching the gorgeous cavern.
• Drive the Chain of Craters Road – This is a nineteen-mile scenic drive that provides stunning views.
• Check Out the Pu’u Loa Petroglyphs – There are twenty-three thousand petroglyphs to observe up close. Just don’t touch them.
• Wander Across Old Lava Flows – Have you ever wanted to walk across a glacier but thought it would be too cold? Well, old lava flows won’t be super-hot like real lava, but it is a unique experience similar to glacier walking.
• Walk Along the Boardwalk at Sulphur Banks – This is perfect for younger children, and your whole family will love the “wonderful” sulfur smell!
• Go Stargazing – It is best not to leave Hawaii Volcanoes National Park without taking the time to do a little stargazing. On really clear nights, your family can see thousands of stars in the sky!

Kaloko-Honokohau National Historic Park on the Big Island

This national historical park can be found on the western side of the Big Island. It can be quite hot on this side of the island, so you must make sure you take lots of water with you. This will ensure your family stays hydrated while visiting this national park.

The spirit of the Kanaka Maoli people thrives inside Kaloko- Honokohau National Historical Park. You will find that it will be easy to learn about the local cultures and traditions during your visit.

As you are exploring this national historical park during your family vacation in Hawaii, you must take the time to:

• Check Out the Ancient House Site Platforms – called Kahua
• Visit the Religious Sites – called Heiaus
• See the Petroglyphs – called Kii pohaki
• Hike Parts of Kings Trail – Also known as the Mamalohoa Trail

Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park on the Big Island

This national historical park can be found on Honaunau Bay. The one hundred eighty acres were once a refuge destination for any locals who had broken sacred laws. This is an excellent place to step back in time with your family. You can walk through some exceptional living Hawaiian history during your visit.

During your time in this national park of Hawaii, you should consider doing the following:

• Take the Self-Guided Tour – This tour is a half-mile long.
• Attend a Park Ranger Talk – These talks are given at the Amphitheater next to the Visitor’s Center. They are an excellent way to learn about the history of Hawaii.
• Stop Into the Visitor’s Center – Grab a map and visit the gift store.
• Walk Around the Royal Grounds – During this walk, you will discover the Hale o Keawe Temple.
• Visit The Pu’uhonua – This is where people took refuge when arriving in this area.
• Explore the 1871 Trail and the Ki’ilae Village – The hike along this trail to the village is two and a half miles long.

Kalaupapa National Historical Park on Molokai

Over on the island of Molokai, there is a national historical park that is well-known yet far away from the rest of civilization. The Kalaupapa National Historical Park is where all leprosy patients were sent starting in 1866. While no one is being sent to this area of the island anymore, there are still a few past patients and their descendants living here.

The only way you can reach this national historical park is via boat, airplane, or hiking. Due to current guidelines, hiking down into the colony and even taking a boat in are not options. Until restrictions loosen once again, you must take a plane if you want to visit.

You must be sixteen years old to visit the colony. And you are not allowed to stay overnight on this part of the island. It is important that you are respectful to those who live in this area. This means limiting your photographs and listening when a person tells you not to do something.

Things to do in this area include:

• Visiting With the Locals
• Pay Your Respects at St. Philomena Church

Haleakala National Park on Maui

Haleakala National Park contains more than thirty-three thousand acres of land. It is located along the southeastern coast of the island of Maui. There are numerous endangered species within this park. Most of those species cannot be seen anywhere else in the world.

As your family is hiking through this national park, you will be surrounded by lush rainforests and barren volcanic landscapes. Time spent in this national park of Hawaii will have you learning quite a bit about Hawaiian culture.

A few things you must do while spending part of your family vacation in Haleakala National Park include:

• Watch the Sun Rise or Set from the Summit – Either option is incredible, according to the national park staff and past visitors!
• Go Hiking – There are multiple trail options, so you can find an easy or difficult trail perfect for your family. The Hosmer Grove Loop Trail or the Supply Trail are two options that offer amazing views. I also recommend hiking into the Haleakala Crater.
• Find the Silverswords – Silverswords are endangered plants that are only found in this park and on two volcanoes on the Big Island.
• Go Stargazing at the Astrophysical Complex – The best place to look through a telescope with unobstructed views.
• See Views of the Haleakala Crater from the Kalahaku Overlook
• Take a Bike Tour of Haleakala – This bike ride is twenty-three miles long, so plan your day accordingly!
• Go Swimming at the Seven Sacred Pools of Ohe’o – Check to see if the pools are open before you go. They are often closed after heavy rains.

These are the national parks of Hawaii you can visit during your next family vacation. Each one offers a unique history of the Hawaiian Islands. I know you will probably want to visit all these national parks and national historical parks, but…

Which national park of Hawaii is at the top of your list? Are you ready to plan your next family vacation there?

If you already know which park you want to visit, I would like to invite you to schedule a planning session with me by clicking here. When you click on this link, you are taken directly to my digital calendar to schedule a time that is convenient for you.

And if you aren’t sure which park you want to see the most, you can always sign up for my newsletter here. This will allow you to receive all the helpful travel information I share. And it may help you decide where your next family vacation should be!

The post Visiting the National Parks of Hawaii appeared first on integritylawfirmcmr.com.

Amazing Family Adventures During a Vacation in California

Experience Burney Falls

There are a few waterfalls scattered throughout the state of California. However, not all of them are as spectacular as Burney Falls. This waterfall is in the northern portion of the state. What makes this waterfall incredible is that water comes out of the middle as well as from the top. A dozen holes in the middle get their water from an underground river. If you can tear your family away from the top of the falls, you can hike along the Falls Trail. This looped trail is just over a mile long. It takes you to the bottom of the falls for even more spectacular views. The only downside to visiting this California waterfall is you are not allowed to enter the water to go swimming.

Explore the Ubehebe Crater

There are so many natural wonders in California. However, the Ubehebe Crater in Death Valley is one of the most popular. As long as you don’t mind visiting the hottest place on Earth, this is one family adventure you won’t want to miss out on! If your family is not a fan of the heat, you can simply pull into the parking lot and look down into the crater without getting out. But if you don’t mind the heat, there are three different hiking trails to conquer. The easiest hike will lead to Little Hebe, while the other two hikes lead you around or into the Ubehebe Crater.

If you do decide to take a hike, please take water with you!

Experience the Unique Nitt Witt Ridge

There are quite a few unique attractions in California, but none of them are as eccentric as Nitt Witt Ridge. This structure is considered a California Registered Historical Landmark and is in Cambria. Arthur Harold Beal purchased the land back in 1928. He then spent fifty years creating what he called his castle. The terraces were carved using a pick and shovel. Some sections of the castle were created using materials taken from nearby Hearst Castle.

And then you have all the junk he collected to create the rest of the building. Beal thought nothing of using car parts, beer cans, old stoves, washer drums, and other tossed items to create what he considered his masterpiece.

If you think your family will love visiting this one-of-a-kind attraction, let me know! I can add it to your itinerary.

Hike to Lost Horse Mine at Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is filled with fun family activities. However, sometimes it is best to go off the beaten path a little while on family vacations. Hiking to the Lost Horse Mine is something not everyone does while taking a vacation in California. The mine used to be a stamp mill, and it has been preserved over the years. When it was in operation, it was used to find approximately five million dollars worth of gold.

The hike is four miles round trip, so you will want to have everyone wear sturdy shoes. There is no shade on this trail, so water bottles, hats, and sunscreen are a must. The mine has been surrounded by a fence since people started to be destructive. But you can still see all the carefully preserved details.

Explore the Caves at Lava Beds National Monument

Not every family will want to head underground in California to explore caves. But if this sounds like a family adventure your kids will love, I say, “Add it to the itinerary!”. There are more than seven hundred caves within Lava Beds National Monument. Only twenty of them can be accessed by the public, though.

Inside the Visitor’s Center, you can check out the maps of each cave to see what you are getting into. I highly recommend beginning with Sunshine Cave and then working your way to the Indian Well Cave, Golden Dome Cave, or Sentinel Cave. Just make sure you have a headlamp or flashlight with you, so you can see once you are deep into the caves.

And if you don’t want to enter the caves, there are still plenty of family activities to do in this area. Your family can hike along any of the trails or check out Canby Cross, Captain Jacks Stronghold, and the lava fields.

Wander Around the USS Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum

The USS Midway was an aircraft carrier ship that was active from 1945 until she moored for the final time in her current location in 2004. Your family will love exploring the interior of this ship. You can see where the crew ate their meals, slept, and even spent their time in the sick bay.

Once you have seen the entire interior, while getting lost a time or two, it will be time to venture up to the flight deck. This is where multiple helicopters and planes are kept, as well as where the captain and admiral’s quarters are located. You will all love seeing the insides of the planes and helicopters. But it will be the flight simulators that will really bring a smile to your kids’ faces.

Visit with the Ghosts on the Queen Mary

The Queen Mary is a luxury passenger ship that was constructed early in the 20th century. This ship crossed the Atlantic just over one thousand times before mooring for the final time in Long Beach. There are different guided tours available on this ship. The most popular ones, though, are the Haunted Tours.

The ghosts don’t make an appearance during the day, but they are quite active at night. So, a nighttime tour is best if you want to see the ghost children around the pool, the engineer who died in the engine room, and the infamous Lady in White.

Gather a Little Glass at Glass Beach

Near Fort Bragg, you will find a unique beach called Glass Beach. Decades ago, this beach was where many people dumped their trash. On any given day, people would toss appliances and even cars over the cliffs. Instead of turning into an eyesore though, the ocean turned that trash into treasures.

The waves broke down the trash that remained and turned it into small pieces of smooth glass. People who visit this beach in California love that they can return home with an authentic souvenir. I recommend planning to spend a little extra time at this beach because your family will be able to spend hours trying to find the perfect piece of glass to take home with them.

Tour the Winchester Mansion

If your kids think you are crazy, you must take them on a tour of the Winchester Mansion. The owner of this home thought she would die if she ever stopped building her home. When you arrive at the mansion, you will stand there in awe of the size. And then, you will notice the fountains and gardens surrounding the mansion.

Inside, you will be greeted by mazes, as well as corridors, windows, and doors that lead absolutely nowhere. Use caution on the second floor because there is a door that opens directly to the outdoors, and no stairs in sight.

Get your kids counting when you are taking the tour because you will notice that the number thirteen pops up often. The owner loved the number thirteen. While the entire building is intriguing, the favorite space in the home is the Séance Room. So, keep an eye out for spirits during your visit.

Hike to the Hollywood Sign

It is a seven-mile round-trip hike to the Hollywood Sign. However, this family adventure is a rite of passage during any vacation in California. The trail is clearly marked, so you won’t need to worry about getting lost. Unfortunately, you can’t get as close to the sign as you would like. But the views of the sign and the surrounding area are still worth the trek in the California heat.

These are some of the amazing family adventures you can have during a vacation in California. There are so many other family activities for you to choose from, though. I can help you find the best ones for your next family vacation.

So, are you ready to plan a few amazing family adventures during a vacation in California?

If you said yes, I would like to invite you to schedule a planning session with me by clicking here. When you click on this link, you will be taken directly to my digital calendar to schedule a time that is convenient for you.

And if you are not quite ready to choose from all these amazing family adventures during a vacation in California, you can sign up for my newsletter by clicking here. This will ensure I can continue sharing travel information with you so you are well-prepared for your next family vacation.

The post Amazing Family Adventures During a Vacation in California appeared first on integritylawfirmcmr.com.

Quick Stop at Gold Dredge 8

Before I left Fairbanks, I decided to check out Gold Dredge 8. This area is where more than 100,000 people spent time trying to strike it rich by searching for gold. A quick ride on a replica of the Tanana Valley Railroad had me at the gold field in no time.

The dredge is the machine that helped the people during their search for gold. It basically scooped up dirt and panned it. It was exciting to go through the debris on the dredge tailings, as I searched for gold.

Unfortunately, I didn’t find enough gold to make me rich. But I did have a fabulous time learning something new!

Exploring Dawson City, Yukon During My Alaska Vacation

It wasn’t long before I said goodbye to Gold Dredge 8 and Fairbanks, Alaska. My sights were set on the next portion of my journey. I boarded a flight to Dawson City, Yukon!

I arrived in Dawson City later in the afternoon, so I didn’t get to explore too much that first day. But the following day was spent checking out this town.

I’m not sure if you have heard about Dawson City before. It is a town most people have heard something about and yet hardly anyone chooses to visit there. It’s a shame, because I enjoyed my visit immensely.

While I was there, I managed to wander around the Jack London Museum. Jack London’s cabin was originally near Dawson City. It was brought to this area after his death. The cabin is now part of the museum dedicated to him.

I discovered the best way to explore Dawson City, Yukon was by taking one of the numerous walking tours. There are a few to choose from. The one I did lasted a couple hours, and I saw the most important sights in the area.

One of the last things I did was hire a driver to take me up to the top of Midnight Dome. I really wasn’t feeling the five-mile round trip hike! The views from the Midnight Dome are stunning and worth the trip to the top.

Oh, and I didn’t have any more success at Diamond Tooth Gertie’s Gambling Hall then I did while panning for gold. But it was fun to walk through Canada’s very first casino.

My Alaska vacation quickly came to an end after my time in Dawson City, Yukon. If you have never been to this part of the country, I highly recommend you plan a vacation in Alaska really soon. It’s quite a unique area that you will love.

So, are you ready to explore Dawson City, Yukon during an Alaska vacation?

If you said yes, I would like to invite you to schedule a planning session with me by clicking here. When you click on this link, you will be taken directly to my digital calendar to schedule a time that is convenient for you.

And if you are not ready to explore Dawson City during a vacation in Alaska, you can sign up for my newsletter here. This will ensure you continue to receive all the travel information I share.

The post Exploring Dawson City, Yukon During My Alaska Vacation appeared first on integritylawfirmcmr.com.