Tag hiking

Thermopolis Wyoming

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I think that Thermopolis is the not so secret, secret getaway awesome nature AND family fun experience just waiting for everyone in Wyoming. Hot Springs State Park is the main attraction here. One feature of the park is the Buffalo Trail Road. Park staff often feed the buffalo.

We didn’t manage to catch a feeding, but we did get to see some of the babies. It is important to remember that these are wild animals. Even if the calves are cute and the adults seem to be relaxing, do not approach buffalo. It is best to enjoy them from a distance or from your car.

Now that I told you a little about the nature in Thermopolis, I can tell you about Star Plunge. Star Plunge is not the only hot springs water park in Thermopolis, Hellie’s TeePee Pools is across the parking lot. Both of these pay for use water parks are located in the Hot Springs State park, but hey are not part of the State Park(you’ll have to pay to use). Here we are taking a dip at the Star Plunge Hot Springs Water Park. We have not been to Hellie’s.

You can take a free dip in the hot springs at the State Bath House. The Bath House is a free soaking facility with showers. In addition to these great activities there are mineral pools, hiking trails, interpretive trails, playgrounds, picnic areas, river access, amazing views and more. Check out the Hot Springs State Park website for more information.

An honorable mention has to go out to Taco Johns.. All of my boys love Taco John’s and were happy there was one in Thermopolis. They talk about going somewhere there is Taco John’s at least once a week.

Saguaro National Park, Tuscan District

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This park is amazing! The Saguaro National Park in Tucson Arizona has two Districts: East(Rincon Mountain Dist.) and West(Tucson Dist.). For our trip we barely had time to visit the Tuscon District, but we really enjoyed what was available at the Visitor Center.

First thing we did was check out the sensory interactive exhibit that was on display outside the Red Hills Visitor Center entrance. Here we learned a little about the animals and plants that live in the Sonoran desert through sight, sounds and touch. We did not get to go inside the Visitor Center because it was closed except for emergencies. Outside we also found maps and other visual educational displays.

Both Visitor Centers have Cactus Gardens. The Cactus Gardens have interpretive trails. This is the “hike” that we were able to do while visiting the park. Along the walk there are signs identifying the plants, great views of the mountains and plenty of photo opportunities.

If you are planning a trip through Tucson, it is definitely doable to spend an hour or two here if that is all the time you have. If you have more time to enjoy the park you’ll find plenty of outdoor activities, hiking and Junior Ranger programming. Both the East and West Districts are just outside Tucson. Travel time between both districts is about 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic.

To find out more and plan your visit the Saguaro National Park website

Zion National Park

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The landscape is so amazing at Zion. I’m not able to take pictures that can capture the views completely.

Zion is great for everyone. You could just drive through, stop at a couple of view points, or get out and get hiking. Any way you choose to visit Zion the experience will be worth it.

One of the things we really liked about Zion was the ability to just park and walk out on the rock. You can walk just a short distance and find great backdrops for you pictures or awe inspiring landscape shots

Did you know that there is a tunnel through a mountian.. a whole mountain. The Mount Carmel tunnel is a whopping 1.1 miles long and we have to admit the kids (and adults) really enjoyed driving through.

There is access to the Virgin River and despite visiting in the spring we made sure to dip our toes, some decided whole heads, into the water.

For more about Zion National Park go HERE