Is there a travel-loving dad in your world? Whether you go as a group or give as a gift, these ideas may inspire a new adventure.
Go Caving
Learn about dry and wet caves, the creatures that live in them, and the characteristics that create these natural settings with a visit to an underground wonder. Discover the story of two University of Arizona students and amateur cavers who, in 1974, spotted a narrow crack in the bottom of a sinkhole. They followed the unusually moist air and discovered more than 2 miles of unspoiled cave passages. The caverns, carved from limestone, were not opened to the public until 1999 and are part of the Arizona State Park system. Visit this living or “wet” cave, to experience stalactites, stalagmites, “cave bacon,” and small white helictites. Many of the resident minerals are not found in any other cave in the world. Among the cave’s highlights: a 22-foot-long “soda straw” stalactite, reported to be the second longest in the world. For a unique experience, visitors 10 and older can experience the cave as the first discoverers did during a tour that uses only light provided by a helmet headlamp. Or, consider a visit to the hill country of south-central Kentucky to explore Mammoth Cave, the world’s largest known cave system and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore 400 miles of vast chambers and complex labyrinths on a variety of tours designed to appeal to multiple ages and abilities. If you are not sure spelunking is for you, consider the short, small-group Introduction to Caving tour. Reservations are strongly recommended.
For more: www.azstateparks.com/parks/KACA/; nps.gov/maca
Visit a Mountain Town
Lavish and historic, the Fairmont Banff Springs Resort, in Banff, Alberta, stands as a luminous landmark in a picturesque alpine town inside Banff National Park. Tucked within a verdant forest, yet offering stunning mountain, valley and winding-river views, the 745-room castle-like resort is a destination in itself. Hiking, rafting, fly-fishing, championship golf, tennis, indoor and outdoor pool-time, and horseback riding are all available within minutes. The Willow Stream Spa offers a full range of soothing options within 27 treatment rooms for those seeking a relaxing stay. Choose from 14 on-site dining options or wander into town for additional possibilities. If young kids are in tow, ask about the Kids in the Castle program and other adventure options for the younger set.
For more: https://www.fairmont.com/banff-springs/; https://www.banfflakelouise.com
Steep in History on a Scenic Trail
Explore wetlands, swamps, and hardwood forests, and steep yourselves in history as you hike a section of Natchez Trace, a National Scenic Trail. The foot trails, totaling more than 60 miles, are divided into five sections, making it easy to choose a comfortable distance. The trail runs roughly parallel to the Natchez Trace Parkway scenic motor road, designated one of America’s National Scenic Byways and one of only 31 All-American Roads. The historic trail dates back to the early 1700s when sections were Native American footpaths and animal trails. In the late 1700s through the early 1820s traders from the Middle Tennessee and Kentucky areas floated their goods down the Cumberland, Ohio, and Mississippi Rivers to Natchez and then walked or rode horses up the Trace to return home. Today, travelers explore the National Park in their personal vehicles, take time to hike, ride horses, and camp along the way. During the fall, visitors enjoy the changing colors of maple, hickory, oak, and other hardwood trees, milder temperatures; and overnight accommodations in small towns along the historic travel corridor stretching from Natchez, Mississippi, to Nashville, Tennessee.
For more: https://www.nps.gov/natr/index.html
Cast a Line Near Casper
With plenty of wide-open space at the ready, this central Wyoming town is a vibrant hub for outdoor adventure. Home to the North Platte River, which provides year-round fly-fishing opportunities, Casper has become a bucket-list destination for avid and aspiring anglers. The river sits below five reservoirs, enabling consistent water flows and temperature, thus manifesting a stable fishing habitat. You’ll hear enthusiastic talk and big fish stories that originate on specific stretches of the river, including the Miracle Mile and Grey Reef. It’s also good to know there is also Blue Ribbon water flowing right through the heart of town, with plenty of public access points available. Appreciate the legendary waterway in a different way via the Platte River Trail system that threads through the community for 11 miles. The paved paths provide access to wildlife watching, mountain views, and public art.
For more: www.VisitCasper.com
Channel the Sporting Vibe
You don’t have to be present for game day to appreciate the ebullient ambiance of a great football town. Take a trip to Ann Arbor, Michigan, where It’s all about the maize and blue. It’s a vibrant community where the University of Michigan Wolverines have captured the town’s attention. During football season, those lucky enough to snag tickets to the “Big House,” as the 100,000-plus-seat stadium is called, will revel in the sweet smell of barbecue as fans fire up their grills before the game. While in town, check out the local farmers market, enjoy breakfast at Zingerman’s—a local fan favorite—and visit the botanical garden. Stay at the cleverly renovated and centrally located Graduate Hotel, where you’ll appreciate the classic collegiate inspiration and the nod to local history and tradition.
In Boise, Idaho’s capital city, named by French-Canadian fur trappers, you’ll find a plethora of outdoor activities, a thriving culinary scene, and an enthusiastic fan base that comes out in force to support the Boise State Broncos. You’ll want to ride bikes or stroll along the wooded Boise River, where a scenic greenbelt provides recreational access for visitors and locals. On game day, “Smurf Turf,” the school’s artificial blue playing field, is center stage for the sporting action. The unique blue surface, the brainchild of athletic director Gene Bleymaier, was introduced in the 1980s and continues to set the venue apart.
For more: www.visitannarbor.org; www.graduatehotels.com/ann-arbor/; www.Boise.org
Lynn O’Rourke Hayes (LOHayes.com) is an author, family travel expert and enthusiastic explorer. Gather more travel intel on Twitter @lohayes, Facebook, or via FamilyTravel.com Copyright 2023 FamilyTravel.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
