Tag: travel with kids

Fall Creek Falls with Kids: Adventure, Waterfalls, and Horseback Riding

Posted in Hiking, State Parks, Tennessee, Tips & RecommendationsTagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , 1 Comment

If you’re looking for a family-friendly getaway packed with adventure, stunning scenery, and a little bit of luxury, Fall Creek Falls State Park is a must-visit. We recently took a trip with the kids and stayed at the Lodge at Fall Creek Falls, and let me tell you—it was an unforgettable experience!

Where We Stayed: The Lodge at Fall Creek Falls

Photo from Trip Advisor website

We booked a king suite at the lodge, and it was absolutely worth it. The spacious room, modern amenities, and beautiful views made it the perfect place to relax after a long day of exploring. The kids loved having space to spread out, and I loved the cozy yet upscale feel of the lodge.

Dining at the Lodge

We ate at the restaurant inside the lodge, and the food was great! It’s so convenient to have an on-site dining option, especially after a day of hiking and adventure. The menu had something for everyone, including kid-friendly options, and we left full and happy every time.

Hiking to the Base of Fall Creek Falls

One of the highlights of our trip was hiking down to the base of Fall Creek Falls. It’s a short but steep hike, and when we reached the bottom, the view was breathtaking.

The kids had a blast scrambling over the rocks, and we all got completely soaked from the mist! It was so worth it. If you go, be sure to bring waterproof shoes, a raincoat, and a change of clothes—you’ll thank me later.

Exploring the Other Waterfalls in the Park

While Fall Creek Falls is the star of the show, the park is home to several other waterfalls that are just as stunning and worth visiting.

• Cane Creek Falls – This waterfall is easily accessible and offers a beautiful view from an overlook. There’s also a suspension bridge nearby, which the kids loved crossing!

• Cane Creek Cascades – A short walk from the Nature Center, this cascade is a fun spot where the kids enjoyed splashing in the water. It’s a great place to take a break and let them explore.

• Piney Falls – A bit more off the beaten path, Piney Falls is another scenic waterfall with a dramatic drop. We enjoyed the peacefulness of this spot compared to the more popular areas of the park.

• Rockhouse Falls – Located near Cane Creek Falls, this one is a bit smaller but still beautiful, especially after a good rain.

If you have time, I highly recommend checking out as many waterfalls as possible—each one has its own unique beauty!

Exploring the Overlooks

Fall Creek Falls has some of the best scenic overlooks, and we made it a mission to visit them all. Each one offered a different perspective of the park’s stunning waterfalls, gorges, and forests. The kids loved peering over the railings and taking in the views, and it was a great way to see a lot without too much hiking.

A fun way to view waterfall overlooks is by accessing suspension bridges at Fall Creek Falls. Each one offers an exhilarating way to experience the park’s stunning landscapes. As you cross these swaying bridges, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of lush forests and deep gorges, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. The bridges add a sense of thrill to your hike while providing a unique perspective of the cascading falls and the surrounding beauty. It’s a must-do for anyone visiting the area!

Horseback Riding Outside the Park

For a fun and unique experience, we also went horseback riding. The guided trail ride was a relaxing way to explore the area, and the kids were so excited to ride their own horses. It was a great mix of adventure and calm, and we all agreed it was one of the best parts of our trip.

Tips for Visiting Fall Creek Falls with Kids

  • Stay at the Lodge – The suite was perfect for families, and having a restaurant on-site made meals easy.
  • Bring extra clothes – If you’re hiking to the base of the falls, expect to get wet!
  • Plan for a mix of activities – Between hiking, scenic overlooks, waterfalls, and horseback riding, there’s something for everyone.
  • Check trail difficulty – Some hikes are short and easy, while others can be steep. Know what to expect before heading out with little ones.

Our trip to Fall Creek Falls was an amazing family adventure, and we can’t wait to go back! Have you visited with kids? Let me know your favorite part in the comments!

10 Epic Things to Do in Oahu, Hawaii with Kids

Posted in Beach, Hawaii, North AmericaTagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , Leave a comment

If you’re heading to Oahu and wondering how to make the most of your time, you’re in for a treat. This island is packed with jaw-dropping views, delicious food, and some of the most unforgettable adventures you’ll ever have. Whether you’re a beach bum, an adrenaline junkie, or just here for the mai tais, I’ve got you covered. Here are 10 of the best things to do in Oahu!

1. Snorkel at Shark’s Cove

Despite the name, you (probably) won’t run into any sharks here. Shark’s Cove is one of Oahu’s best snorkeling spots, filled with vibrant coral, colorful fish, and crystal-clear water. Just be prepared for rocky terrain—it’s not your typical sandy beach, but the underwater views are worth it!

2. Take in the Views at the Nu’uanu Pali Lookout

Want to feel like you’re on top of the world? The Pali Lookout offers insane panoramic views of the windward side of the island, with lush green valleys and the ocean stretching out before you. It’s also got some pretty wild history—this is the site of a legendary battle where warriors were driven off the cliffs!

3. Soak in the Beauty of the Lanai Lookout

One of Oahu’s most underrated spots, the Lanai Lookout is where you’ll find dramatic coastal cliffs and stunning ocean views. On a clear day, you can even see the neighboring islands of Molokai and Lanai. It’s the perfect place for photos, but don’t expect to swim here—the waves are intense!

4. Hike to Likeke Falls

If you love chasing waterfalls, this one’s for you. The hike to Likeke Falls is a short, muddy adventure through a lush tropical forest, leading you to a picture-perfect waterfall. It’s not as well-known as some of the other hikes on Oahu, which makes it feel like a hidden gem.

5. Climb to the Top of Diamond Head

It’s one of Oahu’s most famous hikes for a reason. The Diamond Head trail takes you up a volcanic crater with killer views of Waikiki and the Pacific Ocean. It’s not too long, but it’s steep—so be ready to sweat a little! The view at the top? Totally worth it.

6. Relax on Waikiki Beach

You can’t come to Oahu and not spend some time on Waikiki Beach. Yes, it’s touristy. Yes, it can get crowded. But it’s iconic for a reason! Grab a towel, soak up the sun, and watch surfers catch waves in the distance. Bonus points if you try a surf lesson yourself!

7. Sip a Mai Tai at Duke’s Waikiki

Speaking of Waikiki, don’t leave without stopping at Duke’s. This legendary beachfront bar and restaurant is the perfect spot for sunset drinks and live music. Order their famous mai tai and just soak in the island vibes.

8. Catch an Epic Sunset

Oahu does sunsets like nowhere else. Whether you’re watching from Waikiki Beach, Sunset Beach on the North Shore, or even from a beachside bar, you’re in for a treat. Grab a drink, kick back, and enjoy the sky turning shades of pink, orange, and purple.

9. Eat at Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck

If you’re a foodie, Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck is a must. Located on the North Shore, this spot serves up some of the best garlic shrimp you’ll ever have. It’s messy, it’s garlicky, and it’s absolutely delicious. Trust me, it’s worth the wait in line.

10. Experience a Luau at Paradise Cove

You can’t leave Hawaii without experiencing a traditional luau. Paradise Cove is one of the best, with hula performances, fire dancing, and a delicious Hawaiian feast. It’s the perfect way to end your trip with a little culture, a lot of fun, and maybe one too many mai tais.

Final Thoughts

Oahu is a dream destination packed with adventure, natural beauty, and plenty of places to just kick back and enjoy the aloha spirit. Whether you’re snorkeling, hiking, eating your weight in shrimp, or just watching the waves, this island has something for everyone. Be sure to check out my complete 8 Day Oahu Itinerary for Families!

Have you been to Oahu? What was your favorite experience? Let me know in the comments!

How to Spend a Day in Bryce Canyon National Park with Kids

Posted in Guides, Hiking, National Parks, United States, UtahTagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , 3 Comments

One of my new favorite National Parks is Bryce Canyon National Park! I cannot wait to tell you about the hikes we chose and share photos of the stunning hoodoos and landscape. Keep reading to learn how to spend a day in Bryce Canyon with kids!

This was our first trip to the area, so we wanted to pack in as much as we could during our week long trip to Southern Utah. We stayed in Kanab and visited Bryce Canyon National Park, Zion National Park, explored slot canyons, hiked the Toadstool Hoodoos, and more! It’s a great place to base from. Even though we only had a day at Bryce Canyon National Park, we feel like it was the perfect amount of time for our family!

One Day Itinerary

  • Visitor Center / Jr. Ranger Program
  • Drive to Bryce Canyon from Kanab, UT (1.5 hours)
  • Sunset Point Overlook
  • Hike Navajo Loop Trail
  • Visitor Center / receive Jr. Ranger badge
  • Hike Mossy Cave Trail
  • Drive Back to Kanab, UT (1.5 hours)

Visitor Center / Jr. Ranger Program

We always like to stop by the Visitor Center when visiting National or State Parks! Most are similar to a small museum with artifacts and Park information. Plus, my youngest son really likes to participate in the Jr. Ranger Program. We grab the booklet to work on throughout our visit and then stop back by to turn it in when it’s complete so that he can swear in and get his Jr. Ranger badge!

Sunset Point Overlook

Our first glimpse of the magic of Bryce Canyon, was at the Sunset Point Overlook. You can’t miss this one, especially if hiking isn’t your thing! If you do plan to hike, many of the trailheads can be found near Sunset Point, so it’s a great place to park your vehicle!

The Hikes

Now, on to the good stuff…hiking! Based on the trails that were open and hiking with kids ages 13 and 9, we decided to hike the Navajo Loop Trail and Mossy Cave (which is outside of the Park).

Navajo Loop Trail – Distance: 1.5 miles | Time: 1.5 hours | Level: Moderate

The Navajo Loop Trail is the most popular trail in Bryce Canyon National Park! It truly is amazing walking in between huge hoodoos! To find this trail, head to the parking lot area at Sunset Point. You’ll see the trailhead near the overlook area.

This trail can be moderately challenging when hiking back up to Sunset Point. For us, the entire trail was a little tough because of the wet conditions. It was very muddy, which made the hike down a little tricky in spots! The views are amazing, so don’t let a little mud discourage you from making the trek.

Be sure to check the weather before you go. If it has rained or snowed in the days before your trip, I suggest wearing hiking boots and bringing along spikes for mud or ice!!

Mossy Cave Trail – Distance: 0.9 miles | Time: 45 minutes | Level: Easy

After finishing the Navajo Loop Trail, we drove about ten minutes to the Mossy Cave Trail. This is a short hike with a small waterfall, rock formations with “windows,” and a cave at the end. The waterfall was more of a trickle when we visited, but we still enjoyed the trail!

Even though this trail is part of Bryce Canyon, it was not as muddy or as crowded as the Navajo Loop Trail within the park. I’ve heard it’s fun to see this waterfall in the winter, because it freezes and you can walk behind it! We really like hiking to caves, but I was a little disappointed that the cave is blocked off by a fence, so you can’t actually explore inside it. But, it was still a fun hike and the views were awesome!

We packed in a lot of time hiking during our one day visit to Bryce Canyon National Park! I know that we didn’t see everything that this amazing Park has to offer, but we really enjoyed our day and the trails that we chose to hike!

Highlights

  • Bryce Canyon has the largest concentration of hoodoos found anywhere on Earth! What exactly are hoodoos? Well, they are unique, thin spires of rock formed by weathering and erosion that can be caused by wind, ice and rain.
  • This Park is open and amazing year-round!
  • The crowds were much smaller than the crowds at Zion National Park!
  • There are no mandatory reservations, permits, or shuttle rides required.
  • There are scenic overlooks and viewpoints if you do not enjoy hiking.
  • It’s a great place for a day trip!

When to Visit

October through May is an ideal time to visit! The crowds are smaller and the temperatures are cooler. Summer is the most popular time to visit, with more crowds and higher temps. Winter is gorgeous with deep blankets of snow! We visited in March and there was still a lot of snow. It was an unexpected surprise, especially since we came from Texas and don’t usually get to see that!

Things to Know

  • Arrive early to ensure you find a parking spot at the trailhead or overlook area!
  • Bring plenty of food, snacks, and water if you’re hiking.
  • Be cautious of the ledges and steep drop offs on some of the trails.
  • Each season has something to offer visitors.
  • 1-2 days is enough time to experience this Park.
  • Cell service was pretty limited during our visit.
  • Follow Leave No Trace Principles!

Every Kid Outdoors Pass

The teacher in me is so excited to share about this amazing opportunity for elementary students in fourth grade! Did you know that with an Every Kid Outdoors Pass, fourth grade students can get into any National Park in the United State for FREE? And really, every person in the whole entire passenger vehicle gets in free, too!

My fourth grader was so eager to get his pass! We completed the information online and printed the confirmation page. Once we visited our first National Park with the printout, my fourth grader was given his very own National Park Pass! These passes are good from September 1st – August 31st! So, be sure to share this information with anyone that has an elementary student! Using my son’s pass we were able to visit Bryce Canyon National Park and Zion National Park for free during our spring break trip!

Helpful National Park Websites

More Utah Adventures!

If you are planning a trip in Southern Utah, then check out my complete 7-Day Itinerary that includes stops in Kanab, Bryce Canyon, and Zion National Park!