ML Interest Tag: snowshoe

Head for the Hills! The Best Ski-In Ski-Out Vacation Rentals near the DMV

by Meghan Yudes Meyers

Keep cabin fever at bay by renting a… wait for it… cabin. If you’ve been considering skiing as a family sport, this is the perfect year to opt in. This outdoor activity has built in social distancing and—bonus—masks! To reduce exposure to high-touch points and public spaces, we did the legwork and sussed out the best ski-in ski-out rentals near Washington, DC. Bypass the lodges and restaurants and enjoy a cozy holiday at these chalets and slope-side townhouses for the ultimate kid-friendly ski vacation.

WEST VIRGINIA
Snowshoe Mountain

Townhouse—Snowshoe, WV

Airbnb

This townhouse is just steps away from Upper Flume, a kid-friendly, beginner ski trail at Snowshoe Mountain. Stop in for lunch or take a safe bathroom break at this ski-in, ski-out location. The 5-bedroom townhouse is also conveniently located to Snowshoe's Main and South Villages. With three sets of bunk beds, this rental is the perfect place for large families or vacation plans with your favorite pod fam. Warm up in the hot tub after a day of hitting the slopes and enjoy the scenic views of West Virginia's wildlife and mountains. 

Sleeps: 14
Cost: $381/night
Online: airbnb.com/rooms/20890148

Winterplace Ski Resort

Snowed Inn Cabin—Ghent, West Virginia

Airbnb

You can by-pass the busy lodge and lines when you stay at this property. Strap on your skis and head out the door; this first-floor condo is located just yards away from Winterplace Ski Resort. Zip in for a hot meal and zip back out to hit the slopes. This 1000-square-foot residence boasts floor-to-ceiling windows in the living room so you can enjoy the mountain views while you relax after a full, active day. In addition to skiing, little ones will enjoy the area's snow tubing. In fact, you'll find a steep slope (with convenient steps) perfect for sledding right out the front door! 

Sleeps: 9
Cost: $189/night
Online: airbnb.com/rooms/22942728

MARYLAND
Wisp Resort

Let the Good Times Roll Townhouse—McHenry, MD

Airbnb

This property is perfect for a family of mixed skill levels; with easy access from Chairlift 4 & 5, you can hit the beginner and intermediate slopes of Wisp Resort. An expert trail is also near-by. The best part? The chair lift floats skiers right out your front door! It's the perfect people watching for kids (and adults!). This 4-bedroom townhouse comes equipped with a  ping pong table and an air hockey machine for aprés ski fun. Don't forget to warm up cold toes and fingers in the hot tub. 

Sleeps: 10
Cost: $428/night
Online: airbnb.com/rooms/29385322

Whitetail Resort

Four-Season Townhome—Mercersburg, PA

Airbnb

When you want a family escape, but you can't leave work behind, head here for superfast and reliable internet service. You can juggle telecommuting with distance learning all while squeezing in some runs on the slopes. When you're off the slopes you can still enjoy the skiing action; cuddle up on the couch and get ready to watch skiers get whisked up the mountain from the comfort of the living room. 

Sleeps: 10
Cost: $214/night
Online: airbnb.com/rooms/30879240

VIRGINIA

Wintergreen Resort

Wintergreen Highlands Condo—Wintergreen Resort, VA

Airbnb

This condo is just steps away from Highlands Express Ski Lift and Upper Cliffhanger, Upper Wild Turkey and Outer Limits ski runs at Wintergreen Resort. After an all-day ski adventure, take a short 3 minute walk to unwind at Wintergreen Spa, grab a bottle of wine at Devines Cafe and Wine Shop (located directly across the street from Wintergreen Highlands Condo) and return back to your rental to enjoy one of the best sunsets in VA. There is a small, outdoor area for kids to play and dogs to stretch their legs (bonus: this rental is pet-friendly!). Before turning in, be sure to cozy up to one of the two wood-burning fireplaces with your glass of vino from Devines. 

Sleeps: 7
Cost: $157/night
Online: airbnb.com/rooms/40505851

PENNSYLVANIA
Liberty Mountain

The Chateau Below—Chalet Fairfield, PA

Airbnb

Located in Carroll Valley, this chalet is just steps away from Liberty Mountain Ski Resort. While technically not a ski-in property (it sits on flat land), it is within walking distance of the Resort. Conveniently warm up mid-day at your rental next to one of the two electric fireplaces or strike up some flames in the fire pit. This cozy home boasts Lodge-like decor and sits on an ample 2-acres, so little ones can build snowmen, hike in snow shoes and get their wiggles out away from the crowds. 

Sleeps: 8
Cost: $299/night
Online: airbnb.com/rooms/3798292

—Meghan Yudes Meyers

featured photo: Visit Almaty via Pexels

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Get Outta Town: Snowy, Winter Adventures in Galena

by Amy Bizzarri

Beat the winter blues and CELEBRATE winter with a trip to charming Galena, where gorgeous rolling hills blanketed in snow surround a quaint, history-filled small town. While Galena is a wonderful city to visit year-round, Christmastime (and wintertime in general) promises magical, hygge-filled experiences. They have special COVID procedures in place to keep visitors as safe as possible and the activities encourage staying outdoors. Read on to hear just a few of the things you’ll see and do on your winter getaway to Galena from Chicago.

HOW TO GET THERE

Visit Galena

Located less than three hours from Chicago in the northwestern corner of Illinois, on the banks of the Mississippi River, Galena is best known for its beautifully-preserved 19th-century buildings—the downtown Galena Historic District is listed on the National Register of Historic Places—and its stroll-worthy Main Street, which boasts delightful specialty shops, fine and casual restaurants and even a winery.

Don’t think that this delightful town closes up shop for the winter. As soon as snow arrives, you’ll find families snowshoeing, skiing, hiking, cross country skiing and sledding the surrounding hills and forests, while downtown Galena offers a myriad of fun winter events all season long.

WHERE TO PLAY

Shop the best Main Street in the Midwest

Galena Kandy Kitchen

Galena’s bustling Main Street is one of the best in the Midwest. Year-round, it’s packed with a fun selection of clothing, gift and gourmet boutiques, art galleries, antique shops, candy stores and more, but during the holiday season it’s especially delightful thanks to festive decor.

Dreamcatcher (204 S. Main St.) features one-of-a-kind gifts and crafts created by local artists; Poopsies (402 S. Main St.) is the home of all the fun tchotchkes you didn’t know you needed. No visit to Galena would be complete without a stop for a bit of housemade fudge and peanut brittle at Galena Kandy Kitchen (100 N. Main St.).

Hit up charming holiday events galore

During the holiday season, Galena hosts holiday walks, train exhibits, festivals, visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, tree lightings and more. You might even spy the Grinch in the living windows that line Main Street during the holiday season. There’s are fun, family-friendly events happening regularly, so check the official event calendar before you visit. 

Catch a guided tour of President Grant’s Home

Galena was the home to nine Civil War generals, including Ulysses S. Grant. Upon his triumphant return to Galena in 1865, he was gifted a beautiful brick home. Visit the Grant Home, where the tour guides do a great job of bringing the history down to a child’s level. Your children will get to check out a child’s bedroom from the mid-1800’s — see if they can find the potty! (Hint: Look under the bed!) 

Ski (or snowboard!) the slopes of Chestnut Mountain

Visit Galena

Galena’s Chestnut Mountain Resort is located on a picturesque wooded palisade overlooking the mighty Mississippi River. Offering nineteen trails, 220 rolling acres, bunny hills and a 475-foot vertical drop, there’s a slope for both the novice and expert skier.

Even the littlest ones can count on skiing down these slopes as the resort offers private lessons for young skiers ages 4-6 that help them master basic moves and build confidence. Kids ages 7 & up can participate in 2-hour Beginner Hill Basic Lessons.

Trolley Tour

Galena Trolley Tours offers comfy guided tours through the historic area and up and down winding roads from the warmth of a retro trolley.

Skate, sled, snowshoe and ski

Visit Galena

At Eagle Ridge Resort, outdoor winter adventures are made easier than ever. Your family can indulge in ice skating, sledding, cross country skiing and snowshoeing, and the onsite Fever River Outfitters has everything you need to enjoy the outdoors this winter, so don’t worry about packing the sleds and skates.

Gear up and head out to their 1.5-acre natural ice pond, perhaps the most idyllic skating backdrop in the Midwest, explore over 7 miles of cross country skiing and snowshoeing trails, sled down the signature 18th hole, or snowshoe on trails that lead through the snowy woods, where you’ll likely spot a soaring eagle. The Nordic Center is open from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. and admission is $5/person, for adults and children. Reservations are recommended and call ahead to check the conditions. After indulging in wintery fun, warm up in the clubhouse or by the center’s crackling bonfire. 

WHERE TO STAY

Eagle Ridge Resort

While there are tons of quaint bed and breakfasts in Galena, families love Eagle Ridge Resort for its 63 holes of championship golf, indulgent 6,000-square-foot Stonedrift Spa, indoor swimming pool, award-winning restaurants and outdoor activities galore. The resort is set on a wintery paradise of over 6,800 acres of picture-perfect rolling hills.

WHERE TO EAT

Visit Galena, Fried Green Tomatoes

Fried Green Tomatoes (213 N. Main St.) is perhaps the most sought-after restaurant in Galena thanks to its locally-sourced, seasonal menu and award-winning wine list. It's cozy, historic setting was once Ulysses S. Grant’s father’s Main St. leather shop. Vinny Vanucchi’s (201 S. Main St.) is another popular option, featuring everybody’s from-scratch Italian favorites. 

— Amy Bizzarri

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Slip, Slide, Splash! Plan a Day at Denny Creek Natural Waterslides

by Alaina Weimer

Editor’s note: Please remember to recreate responsibly by wearing a mask and socially distancing when you’re out and about.

Looking for a little-known spot to check off your summer bucket list? We’ve got a doozy of an idea for you and your crew, especially if water play and wilderness are your bag, baby. Check out Denny Creek trail waterslide, located about an hour east of Seattle. It’s a must-do beauty of a hike that ends at a natural rock slip-and-slide your kids will go gaga for. Read on for the Denny Creek deets!

Hit the Trail

The Denny Creek trail, situated between North Bend and Snoqualmie Pass, is a popular hike, full of lush old-growth beauty, creek crossings, bridges and that quintessential PNW foliage, while still being totally doable for the kiddos. The trail is nestled under oodles of coniferous trees with canopy shade a-plenty. It’s also about 3-feet wide, so there's plenty of room to bring the whole gang and Fido, too. This well-kept trail can be rather rooty and rocky in places, but it won’t be more than your mini hikers can handle.

Wander Towards the Waterslide

About a half-mile from the trailhead, there's a picturesque bridge that crosses over the Denny Creek waters and eventually goes right under the I-90 viaduct (cool!). From there, set your sights on the next delightfully scenic area, Alpine Lakes Wilderness, a sure sign you’re getting closer. Then it's on to the piece de resistance, the natural waterslide.

Pro tip: Although this trail can be six miles round trip (Keekwulee Falls is about a mile further up the trail and hiking to Snowshoe Falls adds another half-mile), it's just a little over a mile from the trailhead to the waterslide—perfect for little legs!

Ride the Waves

Once you get to the waterslide, you will no doubt be super stunned by the beauty of this natural wonder. It truly is a gem and well worth the hike. The waterslide area is enclosed in the forest and the ginormous rocks you'll find there have formed natural chutes from the continuous running waterfall and creek. Kiddos can splash around and play in the water to their hearts' content or sit right in and push themselves through the slide to the waiting, shallow pools below. This rock area is also picture perfect for setting up a picnic, relaxing and soaking in the stunning scene while the kids bound off gleefully to ride the slick rockslide again and again.

Pro tip: Plan your Denny Creek excursion on a weekday morning when it's less crowded, if you're able. Or try a later afternoon visit and pack a picnic dinner so the kids are worn out just in time for bed.

Safety First

The actual waterslide rock is flat-ish so you won’t have any worries about your tiny explorers being launched, Niagara-style. It is, however, a good idea to assess the water level and current when you get there. Since summer is drier (and the perfect time to go since the water temp can be pretty chilly), you will probably find a safe spot to cross over the waters to the slide/picnic area. There are also a couple of logs that people use to cross over to this side, but it may be a bit precarious for the teensiest of feet. 

On that note, it's a great idea to bring along water shoes for extra traction while on the rocks and wading through the waters. They do get a bit slippy. And when you're all wiped out from a day of riding the slide and basking in the gorgeousness, don’t forget your towels. It is definitely cooler under the canopy on the way back.

Grab your GPS

Denny Creek Waterslide isn’t hard to find, nor is it too far from the city, making it an ideal summer day excursion. From Seattle, head east on I-90 to Exit 47 Denny Creek/Tinkham Road where you'll turn left and head back over the freeway. Next, turn right at the stop sign on Forest Road 58. The road goes back under the freeway; then turn left. Keep going straight for about 3 miles, past the Denny Creek campground, until you see the large paved parking area on the right.

Pro tip: If you see a sign at this lot for Franklin Falls parking, you're in the right place. The Denny Creek trailhead starts by the bulletin board. Move along down that way, cross the street you came in on, head past the bathrooms (hello, pitstop!) and the gate, go over the bridge and follow the signs towards Denny Creek as it veers off from Franklin Falls. Guess what? Now, you and your whole H2O-happy troop are on your way to a fun-filled summer adventure you won’t soon forget. It is bound to become a family fave!

What to bring

1. Be sure to pack masks, sunscreen, towels, full waterbottles and sturdy water shoes in your beach bag for the trip. It wouldn't hurt to throw a warm outer layer in there too, in case the kids get chilly on the shaded hike back to the car.

2. Add some extra food and snacks to keep the kids fueled, whether you're planning a picnic or just handing out snacks when the kids need them.

3. Stick five dollars to park or your Northwest Forest Pass in pocket to enjoy Denny Creek.

Online: wta.org

—Alaina Weimer

all photos courtesy of the writer

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Outdoor Adventure Awaits at Wylder Hotel Hope Valley

by Kate Loweth

Just over three hours from the Bay Area, Wylder Hotel Hope Valley sits in the often-overlooked Alpine County, just south of Lake Tahoe. It’s the perfect spot for your next off-the-grid family glamping vacation with cabins, campsites and yurts for families of all sizes. They just underwent some major renovations and we’ve got the scoop on what you can expect when you book your next family vacation there.

Bunk up in style.

Wylder Hotel Hope Valley has tons of different lodging options for families. From cabins that sleep up to eight people to campsites, yurts and even a vintage Spartan, you'll find something that suits your family's travel style, for sure. Cabins share outdoor spaces with hammocks, swings, picnic tables and fire pits. Enjoy your morning coffee as the sun peeks through the trees. 

The cabins have everything (and we mean EVERYTHING) you'll need.

We definitely recommend that you choose one of the cabins for your family's stay at Wylder Hope Valley. They come with a totally-renovated kitchen with mini fridge, wine storage, oven, gas range and all the pots, pans, dishes and silverware you'll need. Bring your family's favorite eats with you or purchase some snacks from the on-site general store. There's even a French press and tea kettle to get your mornings off on the right foot. 

Hikes for days.

Wylder Hope Valley is overwhelmingly gorgeous and you can set out on an outdoor adventure right from the property. Head up the mountain behind the property and you'll find hiking trails that turn into snowshoeing trails in the winter. You'll find wildflowers galore, rushing waterfalls and views like no other. 

Bring your swimsuits and fishing poles.

Near the Wylder campground and general store you'll find access to the West Form Carson River. There's shallow water for swimming and deeper spots for fishing. The general store has all the fishing gear you'll need minus the rods (coming soon!) so if you need bait or hooks, they've got you covered. Bring your swimsuits, inner tubes and towels for an afternoon of cool relaxation. 

On-site dining has options for everyone.

Make it easy on yourself and grab a meal at the on-site Sorensen's Cafe during your stay. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner (with kids' menus available), you'll definitely want to try out their famous beef burgundy stew and berry cobbler. Dine outdoors in the garden or enjoy your meal delivered to your cabin.

To-go breakfast burritos, pie and beer/wine are available at the general store. You can also take the short drive to nearby Markleeville if you want to pick up frozen pizza or other food for the kids. 

Let the kids swing while you enjoy a relaxed meal.

Just above the outdoor garden dining area is this totally cool, rustic swing set that the kids will love. Send them up there while you enjoy a glass of wine in peace. Dogs are also welcome on the property in certain cabins and you can get a water bowl if Fido is joining you for dinner. 

You'll find tons of nearby adventures.

We definitely recommend checking out the nearby lakes, rivers and towns during your stay in Hope Valley. Markleeville is just a 15-minute drive away. There you can enjoy the hot spring-fed pool at Grover Hot Springs State Park (be sure to book your spot before you head over as they are limiting the number of visitors). 

South Lake Tahoe is just under 30 minutes away. Or head to nearby Caples Lake to rent a boat or kayaks for the day.

A great spot for a day of fishing and swimming can be found right near Wylder, just past the intersection off 88/89. Look for the small parking lot at the wildlife viewing area. You'll be able to walk along paved paths to the river where there are shady spots for picnicking, deep holes for fishing and tons of opportunities for bird watching. 

Your safety is their number one concern.

Wylder Hotel Hope Valley is the perfect option for a social distance-friendly vacation for Bay Area families. Masks were worn by both employee and guests during our recent visit and social distancing protocols were in place. 

Book your stay at Wylder today!

Whether you are looking for a summer vacation destination or winter spot for snowshoeing and cross country skiiing, Wylder Hotel Hope Valley is the spot for you. It's close enough of a drive to make it an easy long weekend trip from the Bay Area, but you'll feel miles away for your busy life, for sure. 

Wylder Hotel Hope Valley
Hope Valley, CA
Online: wylderhotels.com

—photos and story by Kate Loweth

Editor’s note: This visit was paid for by Wylder Hotel but all the opinions belong to the writer. 

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8 Reasons Why Idaho is Your Ultimate Winter Family Destination

by Kate Loweth

When you are itching for a family vacation that includes snow and small town charm, make plans to head to Ketchum, Idaho. From the minute you land in the Sun Valley Airport, the scenery is absolutely gorgeous. Scroll through to discover all that you’ll find when you spend your winter vacation here.

1. Idaho is a winter wonderland.

Kate Loweth

Whether your main reason to visit is to hit the slopes or you are looking for some off-mountain winter adventures, there's so much to do here. The small Sun Valley Airport majorly increases the number of direct flights during the winter months (from LA, San Francisco, Salt Lake City, Seattle and Denver) so that getting there is easy from wherever you live. Even the 20 minute drive from the airport to the adorable town of Ketchum is full of snow-topped mountains, rushing rivers and even elk. 

2. The Limelight Hotel Ketchum is the perfect family home base.

Kate Loweth

A stay at the Limelight Hotel Ketchum is easy and that starts from your arrival at the airport. The hotel runs a shuttle to pick you up and you can take the shuttle from the hotel to the ski areas and pretty much anywhere around town that you'd like to go. This allows you to skip renting a car entirely. If you need to borrow a ride to go farther out of town, ask the concierge about their Audi e-tron test drive program. 

Families will love the amply-sized rooms at the Limelight that have room for all your winter gear and amazing views of the nearby mountains. They even have two- and three-bedroom residences on the top floor that have full kitchens, huge bathrooms, multiple balconies and room to spread out. 

Forgot your gloves or goggles at home? Sturtevants is the onsite ski and snowboard rental shop that can hook you up. Or, head to the massive (and amazing) Gold Mine resale shop a few blocks away where they have literally everything you might need for a snowy adventure. When you return from your day of skiing, store your gear in the ski locker on the first floor of the hotel so that you don't have to schlep everything up to your room. 

Warm up after a day on the slopes with a dip in the heated outdoor pool or grab some s'mores packs to get cooking on the outdoor fire pits. You can even peer up at the skiers on the mountains or the stars in the evening with the hotel's telescope located near the ballroom. 

Hotel stays come with a generous breakfast buffet in the lounge. Here you can also enjoy live music Friday through Sunday nights during peak season while you enjoy a drink and a pizza from their wood-fired pizza oven. 

The kid-favorite feature of the Limelight Hotel has got to be the game room that's right off the lounge. Here they can battle in a vintage game of Donkey Kong, read books, play with puzzles and more. Kids can hang out within eyesight of parents, giving parents the opportunity to relax and enjoy their meal and the live music. There's also a tabletop shuffle board in the lounge that's fun for all ages. 

The Limelight Hotel Ketchum
Online: limelighthotels.com

3. Sun Valley Lodge offers dining, ice skating and shopping.

Kate Loweth

A visit to Sun Valley Lodge should definitely be on your must-do list when you head to Ketchum. The shuttle from the Limelight Hotel will get you there in about 10 minutes and you'll want to stay all day. Walk through the lobby and you'll see their outdoor ice rink with skates you can rent right there. Downstairs in the lodge you'll find their game room and bowling alley, complete with arcade games, appetizers and even adult beverages—perfect for a winter afternoon. 

Just a short walk from the main building is the Sun Valley Village—an adorable grouping of restaurants and shops with everything from ski gear to souvenirs to homemade chocolates. We especially love Konditeri for a family-friendly meal with an Austrian twist. Or better yet, swing by to take a glimpse of their massive case of sweet treats. The holidays bring the Winter Wonderland festival to the Village with carolers, sleigh rides, cookie decorating and more. Check out their events calendar to see what's happening when you visit.  

 

4. Take a day away at Galena Lodge.

Kate Loweth

Borrow the Audi e-tron from the Limelight and head out of town for some cross country skiing or snowshoeing at Galena Lodge. This gem in the woods is about a 30-minute drive from Ketchum and totally worth the effort to get there. Gear is available to rent onsite or bring your own if you've got it. They have tons of snowshoeing and cross country skiing trails for every ability. Kids will love showshoeing on the Galena View Trail as it's a nice loop with minimal elevation change. The views are epic and even your dog can join you on the adventure. You can book a guided snowshoe hike if you'd like an expert to lead the way. 

After you've worked up an appetite, pick a spot by the fire inside the lodge and enjoy lunch. We recommend the grown-up grilled cheese and the chili of the day to get your warmed up. Everything is made in house and portions are generous and delicious! You won't want to get back in your car after you've had a chance to relax by the fire. 

While you hang out in the lodge, the kids can head outside to grab one of the sleds that are available for visitors. The hills right next to to lodge are perfect to get them going. 

For some extra-special adventure, Galena Lodge has yurts that you stay in for the night. They can only be accessed by skiing or snowshoeing! 

5. Bald Mountain offers skiing and dining with an EPIC view.

Kate Loweth

Just a five minute shuttle ride from the Limelight Hotel will get you to the foot of Bald Mountain, the area's massive ski resort. Here you can do the usual skiing and snowboarding but we also have a recommendation for the non-skiers. Buy a "foot traffic" pass for the gondola and you can ride it up the mountain. At the top of the gondola, walk up the stairs to the Roundhouse where you can enjoy fondue with a view. Cozy up around the six-sided fireplace or grab a table at the window to watch the skiers hit the mountain. The lobster roll is another crowd favorite and the kids menu includes the usuals like chicken fingers and burgers. 

Skiers looking for some mountain time on a smaller scale can spend the day at Sun Valley's Dollar Mountain, perfect for beginners. 

6. Ketchum is full of history.

Kate Loweth

Sun Valley is famous for its beautiful mountains and is also well-known as the final resting place of American author Ernest Hemingway. While you can't visit his former home, you can take the kids to the Sun Valley Regional History Museum to learn about his time in Idaho. The museum is located right behind the Limelight Hotel and also has a fun train exhibit that the kids can drive themselves. Check out the pelts of animals that live in this area of the country and then venture next door to the museum's second building to see how ski clothing has changed over the years. 

7. There's no shortage of great places to eat in town.

Kate Loweth

In addition to the amazing dining at the Limelight Hotel and Sun Valley Lodge, the main drag in Ketchum is full of restaurants that are perfect for a cold winter's night. We highly recommend heading to Pioneer Saloon to try out their giant steaks and even more giant baked potatoes. This low-key and welcoming restaurant is perfect for kids as the service is fast and friendly. Ask for a table by the kitchen and they'll be entertained while you wait. The Jim Spud is a not-to-be-missed item on the menu—a massive Idaho baked potato topped with teriyaki beef, cheese, sour cream and butter. YUM. 

Despo's Mexican Restaurant is another family favorite with large portions and some of the best salsa we've ever had. They serve locally-sourced meats and are strongly committed to making environmental choices such as avoiding non-recyclable take out containers. We love that!

8. Idaho has it all, and more.

Kate Loweth

Put Sun Valley and Ketchum, Idaho on your list this winter for a long weekend (or more) of family fun. You'll have all the great skiing you want without having to deal with the crowds and craziness that comes from some ski destinations. And if you are looking for some off-the-mountain winter adventures, this area of the country can definitely deliver. 

—Kate Loweth

This trip was paid for by the Limelight Hotel Ketchum but all opinions belong to the author.

 

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Best Places to Snowshoe with Kids

by Kelli Martinelli

Some families love the thrill of stepping into skis or snowboards and bombing down fresh powder together on a bluebird day. Others like to take things a little bit slower, pausing to inspect the tiny frozen details of a wintry landscape, or to fall backwards to create the perfect (or not-so-perfect) snow angel. Snowshoeing is a multi-sensory, meandering way to explore Portland’s neighboring Mt. Hood this winter! And all it takes to get started are snowshoes, warm clothes, and a sense of adventure!

photo: Will Graham flickr

Gear up!

Kids of all ages can appreciate the carefree pace of snowshoeing. Littles still too little to strap on their own snowshoes can ride in a backpack or baby carrier with an intrepid parent, but for those who are big enough for shoes of their own, there are several rental options in Portland, and most places are $10/kid or $15/adult for a 24 hour rental:

Next Adventure
Mon.-Fri. 10am – 7pm
Sat. 10am – 6pm
Sun. 11am – 5pm
426 SE Grand Ave.
503-233-0706
Online: nextadventure.net/rentals

Tip! Check out their basement for amazing deals on used gear and kids’ snow clothing!

Mountain Shop
Mon.- Fri. 10am – 7pm
Sat. 10am – 6pm
Sun. 11am – 5pm
1510 NE 37th Ave
503-288-6768
Online: mountainshop.net/rentals

REI
Mon.- Sat. 10am – 9pm
Sun. 10am – 7pm
1405 NW Johnson St.
503-221-1938
Online: rei.com/stores/portland

Mt. Hood Adventure
Mon.- Sun. 8am – 5pm
88661 Government Camp Loop Rd.
503-715-2175
Online: mthoodadventure.com/winter

Otto’s
Mon. – Tue. Closed
Wed. – Sun. 9am – 6pm
38716 Pioneer Blvd.
503-668-5947
Online: ottosskishop.com/rentals

Tip! Get your pre-snowshoe sugar rush on at Joe’s Donuts near Otto’s and Meadowlark in Sandy!

Meadowlark
Mon. – Sat. 10am – 6pm
(hours may adjust based on mountain conditions)
38858 Pioneer Blvd.
503-668-8173
Online: meadowlarkski.com/rentals

photo: sarowen via flickr

Getting Started

Once the snowshoes are bought, borrowed, or rented, make sure everyone is prepared for the elements with warm, waterproof boots, non-cotton water-resistant layers, and a good pair of gloves. Pick up a sno-park pass, pack some snacks and a thermos of hot cocoa, pick your destination, and head to Mt. Hood for a few hours of snowshoe family fun! Seasoned snowshoers will always be able to find new hills to tromp through, but snowshoeing is a workout and can take a little getting used to (you might feel like Bigfoot for awhile!) so for newbies, you might want to check out some of these family favorites in order to test out your “snow legs”:

Crosstown Ski + Snowshoe Trail
This trail is a close-in trek from one end of Government Camp to the other. The full loop is 4.1 miles, but the elevation gain is minimal, and Government Camp under snow is truly a winter wonderland! This trail can get crowded, so if you’d like a little more room for your feet to flop, plan your visit for mid-week, or get there early on weekend mornings to avoid the crowds.

You can also access the Enid Lake Loop from the Crosstown Trail, which is an easy 2 mile trek that’s perfect for little explorers! The Enid Lake Loop will take you and your adventurers through snowy groves of cedar, hemlock and fir trees.

Getting there from Portland: Take Highway 26 past Sandy for 27 miles. Turn left at the Glacier View Snowpark, across from the west entrance to Ski Bowl. The trailhead is on the east side of the parking lot towards Government Camp.

Online: fs.usda.gov/recarea/mthood

Mirror Lake
This trail is popular, and with good reason! After just a couple of miles you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of Mt. Hood from this classic glacial cirque! This is an out and back trail, so if you and your clan aren’t quite up for the full 4.8 miles, you’ll want to turn around before reaching the lake (or maybe bring a sled with you to tow tired trekkers on the way back …).

Getting there from Portland: Travel 27 miles east of Sandy on Highway 26. Turn right into the gravel parking area between mileposts 51 and 52.

Online: fs.usda.gov/recarea/mthood

photo:USFWSmidwest via flickr

Trillium Lake
This may be the most celebrated—and visited—snowshoe routes near Mt. Hood. It’s a close hop from Portland, and a perfect playground for mittened fists to gather up snowballs! If crowds aren’t ideal for your first snowshoe experience, then plan on visiting during off-hours, like mid-week. The 3.6 mile loop is very kid and dog friendly (dogs must be kept on leash), and the views of Mt. Hood are iconic!

Getting there from Portland: Travel 31 miles east of Sandy on Highway 26. Turn right onto Trillium Lake Loop Road.

Online: fs.usda.gov/recarea/mthood

Frog Lake
Spoiler Alert: There are no frogs at Frog Lake in winter. (Just laying the expectation for kiddos who may think otherwise. Ask me how I know …). This is a simple but rewarding snowshoe hike of only 2.3 miles, great for beginners and children. Wide, groomed trails are friendly for feet that are just getting accustomed to being strapped into snowshoes, but as with the other trails, be prepared to share the space with other snowshoers and skiers.

Getting there from Portland: Take Highway 26 east past the junction with Highway 35 to the Frog Lake Sno Park.

Online: fs.usda.gov/recarea/mthood

Tamanawas Falls
Shhh … this one might be the very best for first-time snowshoers! This is on the east slope of Mt. Hood and is better later in the season when there is  more snow pack (it can get icy!). Congestion isn’t quite an issue as with some of the locations closer to Government Camp, but parking is limited, so get there early! You’ll be rewarded with fantastic winter falls! The trail is 3.8 miles through stunning old growth forest and the pay off at the falls is unmatched! NW Forest Pass is required.

Getting there from Hood River (recommended): Travel south on Highway 35 for 25 miles to the Pollallie Trailhead. Continue on Highway 35 for about 5 more miles until you get to the Tamanawas Falls Trailhead.

Online: fs.usda.gov/recarea/mthood

Parents, be prepared for warming up chilly children! Bring along handwarmers to tuck inside gloves or jacket pockets, and carry a backpack with essentials like extra layers, snacks, and water. Snowshoeing will indeed get your heart rate up, and sometimes it seems like kids are impervious to the cold, but just a few errant drips of snow down the back of a neck and you’ll be happy to have warm-up options close at hand. Just in case.

Does your family have a favorite location for snow play? Share it with us in the comments below.

—Kelli Martinelli

 

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Mt. Rainier: Discover A Magical Winter Getaway!

by Annette Benedetti

Living in Portland, you’ve probably hit the slopes at Mt. Bachelor more than once, twice or even three times. If your family is ready for a new mountain experience, you are in luck! Mt. Rainier National Park is only a two to three hour drive North of Portland and offers a multitude of winter activities and adventures that the whole clan will love. From sledding and snowshoeing to gondola and tram rides through the wilderness, this mountain experience will bring your nature-loving crew back again and again.


photo: by Annette Benedetti

Getting to Mt. Rainier 

The entrance to  Mt. Rainier National Park  closest to Portland is the Nisqually entrance located in Ashford, Washington. To get to there by car head North on I-5 to Hwy. 12 (exit 68) then head East on Hwy. 12 to SR 7. In Morton, head North on SR 7 to SR 706 in Elbe. From there go East on SR 706, which will take you to the Nisqually Entrance.

Mt. Rainier National Park
Online: nps.gov/mora/index.htm

Winter Adventures Await

Mt. Rainier offers plenty of opportunities to take winter activities to the next level. The mountain offers spectacular views that you won’t find anywhere else and the likelihood of running into wildlife, including dear and elk, is high. If you aren’t sure where to begin, consider some of the following activities.

The Paradise Snow Play Area
Your kids won’t be able to get enough of this area, which is the only area that that allows sleds. They will kill hours racing down the slopes on disks and tubes that fulfill their need for speed. The snow play area is located north of the upper parking lot at Paradise and is open from mid-December through the end of March.

photo: Seth Stoll via Flickr

Snowshoeing
During the summer months, Mt. Rainier has and endless number of trails that give you access to breathtaking mountainscapes. Now imagine being able to leave the trail and see what’s beyond the defined paths! Well, you can do just that once the snow has become too deep to see trails. Snowshoeing is an activity that even the younger set can enjoy. If you are new to the mountain or snow shoeing, consider signing up for a ranger guided tour at Paradise. And added bonus of the tours is that snowshoes are provided by the park and there is only a suggested donation of $5.00 for both the tour and the equipment. They are offered from mid-December through early March. There are over thirty Snowshoe trail descriptions you can check out by visiting visitrainier.com.

Ride Crystal’s Mt. Rainier Gondola
See Mt. Rainier from the sky! This gondola ride will take you to the Crystal Mountain summit for unforgettable mountain views. Your family will “ooh” and “ah” as you travel almost 2,500 vertical feet to the summit where you will be able to see Mt. Rainier in all of it’s glory as well as the Cascade Range.

Cost: $22/adult, $17/youth ages 11-15 and $5/child 10 years and under.
Online: crystalmountainresort.com/activities/mt-rainier-gondola

Once at the summit, you can hit the Summit House, Washington’s highest elevation restaurant. Warm up with some Bison and Elk chili or fill up with a Rainier burger, better known as “The Mountain”. There’s even a kids menu offering favorites such as butter noodles and parmesan and the classic cheeseburger. For more information visit crystalmountainresort.com/summit-house-restaurant.

photo: courtesy of Three Bears Lodge

Take a Tram Ride
Break out the blankets and warm clothes because you don’t want to miss this chance to view native Northwest animals in their natural winter environment. Catch the tram at Northwest Trek Wildlife Park in Eatonville and tour 435 acres of free-roaming area of park. See who has the best eye in your family and try to spot bison, caribous, elk, mountain goats, deer and moose. If you are lucky an animal may even approach the tram.

11610 Trek Dr. E., Eatonville
Online: nwtrek.org

photo: courtesy of Three Bears Lodge

Family Accommodations

While you can make a visit to Mt. Rainier a day trip, there’s so much to do that planning a full weekend away (or longer) will give you ample time to get a real taste of what the mountain has to offer your clan. If your crew prefers to stay in a hotel or lodge setting, consider staying at the Nisqually Lodge in Ashford. Your stay comes with comfortable accommodations and amenities like Free Wi-Fi, TV and air conditioning and heat. They also serve a full continental breakfast every morning between 7 a.m. and 10:30 a.m., which features waffles, sausage, scrambled eggs, biscuits and gravy and more so you can power up for the active day ahead.

Renting a cabin is another attractive lodging option. Three Bears Lodge offers eight cabins just outside the year-round Paradise entrance to the national park in Ashford. The cabins accommodate groups of all sizes and the owners of the cabins have kids themselves so they have designed six of the 8 cabins specifically for families with young children. These cabins come with highchairs, boosters, toys, cribs and anything else you could imagine you might need. All of the cabins have fully equipped kitchens that have the supplies for a complimentary waffle breakfast. If you choose this lodging option, the only thing you need to bring with you is food.

If you have furry family members, good news, four of the Three Bears Lodge cabins are pet-friendly and equipped with amenities just for fido including a doggie basket; which includes dog tags with the cabin address and phone number; dog towels; a sticky roller for hair removal; dog treats and plastic baggies. They also provide a washable dog bed and food and water bowls.

Nisqually Lodge
31609 SR 706 E., Ashford
Online: whitepasstravel.com/nisqually/

Three Bears Lodge
206-241-8080
Online: rainierlodging.com

Has your family been to Mt. Rainier National Park? If so, tell us about your experience in the comments section below.

—Annette Benedetti

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Take a Family Vacation to Leavenworth

by writerredtri

It’s hard to believe that a two hour drive east of Seattle can put you in a winter scene that’s worthy of a snow globe. But that’s exactly what you find in the quintessentially quirky town of Leavenworth, a faux Bavarian village nestled in the snow-covered Cascades. Leavenworth is known for a lot of things:  Nutcrackers. Brats. Beer. Not to mention it’s penchant for celebrating Christmas year-round.  Fact is, it’s also a destination for family fun.

What to Do:

The heart of the town is Front Street Park Strausse, with its Bavarian-style buildings festooned in colorful lights throughout the winter months.  Bring a sled so the kiddos can cruise down one of the small paths created on the slight hill of the park. Leavenworth shops are Disneyesque (the same architecture is what you find in Fantasyland at WDW in Orlando!), so it’s especially fun for kids to stroll through them. Try on hats at The Hat Shop; dig into big, old-fashioned candy jars at the Bearly Perfect Gift Shop; watch the machine making taffy at the Taffy Shop; check out the selection of toys at Alpenhaus Toys. An absolute must see is the Nutcracker Museum, which houses 6,000 nutcrackers from around the world. (You can start your own collection downstairs at Nusskaacker Haus, which sells them in all shapes and designs.)

For more serious snow-related activities, take the short drive over to Ski Hill (and be sure to notice the funky, painted houses along the way), where you can go tubing or skiing on a slope that has a rope tow. Ski Hill also offers Nordic skiing and snowshoeing, as does the Fish Hatchery, which has two courses; the shorter one is well suited for young beginners.

Where to Eat:

For eats, there are all sorts of offerings in the Front Street Park Strausse, and you’d be remiss if you didn’t try the brats at the Munchen Haus, which only has outdoor seating (with heat lamps!) and a dazzling array of mustards (and darn good beer, too).  For a warmer setting, there’s a good kid’s menu at Gustav’s, which just might have the best fries in town.

Where to Stay:

Given that Leavenworth’s a tourist town, you’ve got your pick of hotels. But you really can’t beat the Enzian Inn, which has indoor facilities – pool, hot tub, basketball court, ping pong room – that are great for burning off some pre-bedtime energy. The kiddos will need to get some rest, though. A delicious hot breakfast awaits in the hotel’s top floor, along with special daily entertainment. Every morning at 8:15 and 9:15, Enzian founder Bob Johnson, decked out in authentic Lederhosen, climbs atop the balcony railing and plays the Alphorn, a super-long wooden horn. His backdrop is a stunning view of the mountains, and the whole scene…well, it makes you feel as if you’re actually inside the snow globe.

-Kavita Varma-White

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