Time to plan that family vacation but looking for something off the beaten path? Avoid the run of the mill tourist fare and instead plan a memory-making journey to one of these 10 road trips for adventurous families!
1. Mount Desert Island, Maine
Partially located in beautiful Acadia National Park, this more secluded area boasts a coastline lined with bays, coves, and cliffs. You can swim in area lakes or jump into the cool Atlantic.
2. Shawangunk Ridge, New York
Upstate New York is a whole other world from the hustle of midtown Manhattan. The climbing zone known as “The Gunks” offers mountain climbing, hiking, lakeside lounging, and canoeing.
3. Fayetteville, West Virginia
Often referred to as America’s coolest small town, Fayetteville is home to the New River Gorge, a kayakers and rafters paradise. Hiking, climbing, and mountain biking also abound in this area of the Appalachian Mountains. Once yearly (in October), crowds descend for Bridge Day, when BASE jumping and bungee jumping from the world’s largest single arch bridge is allowed.
4. Flint Hills, Kansas
Rolling hills offer a stunning view of a vast ocean of grasslands, some of the last remaining of what once covered the region. Set out on foot or horseback for a glimpse back in time.
5. Moab, Utah
While the town of Moab is smothered in tourist trappings thanks to the neighboring Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, there’s still plenty of isolation to be found. It’s a known hot spot for mountain biking, but world class fishing, hiking, climbing, and camping are also found here.
6. Eden Valley, Utah
With panoramic views of the surrounding Wasatch Mountains, hiking, biking, paddling, and horseback riding are enjoyed here year round.
7. Buena Vista, Colorado
Tucked away 7,900 feet up in the Rocky Mountains, this former mining territory offers excellent fishing, hiking, and nature watches. Explore ghost towns or soak up the sun lakeside.
8. City of Rocks, Idaho
Once a popular stop for immigrants along the old California Trail, this tiny park is now home to a wide range of activities like camping, hiking, and climbing. The park also hosts excellent birdwatching opportunities.
9. Sisters, Oregon
Hiking, biking, birdwatching, fishing, and rafting are all up for grabs here in the Cascades region of Oregon, a very laid back spot for loads of outdoor fun.
10. The Oregon Coast
To stretch your trip into a journey, travel down the Oregon coast. Considered the most scenic in the Lower 48, there are many trails, beaches, and sand dunes to explore and enjoy along the way.
Closing Tips
Any of these trips will make for an excellent family adventure. To ensure the fewest headaches, follow some basic preparation recommendations including ample forms of entertainment and sustenance, knowing where rest areas and gas/service stations are located along the way, and proper vehicle maintenance including aspects such as proper oil changes, checking your belts and hoses, and making sure you’re using high quality spark plugs at each tune up.
Related to Road Trips for Adventurous Families: 3 Family-Friendly Hikes in California, A Simple Guide to Choosing a Family Tent
Featured Image from Dino Reichmuth/Unsplash
