By the end of summer, we can all start to get restless, and hope for something to keep the kids entertained while not being overwhelmed. Sure fairs and theme parks are fun, but do our kids really get a sense of presence and peace from them? Probably not. I’ve put together a list of destinations in North America where you can connect with nature, your family, and create amazing memories for years to come.

Stand Tall

I didn’t think anything is cooler than trees when I was a kid. My grandparent’s had an amazing, huge tree in their backyard that we always climbed that made me feel like I was on top of the world.The kid in me would have been thrilled to visit some of the tallest trees in the world.

In Redwood National Park in California you can walk among the 2,000 year old trees that are 375 feet tall. There are hiking trails, biking trails, horseback riding and camping. Sleeping under the stars with the colossal trees sounds like a perfect way to end the day.

For more information, click here.

Can You Dig It?

The Tyrrell Museum in Drumheller is Canada’s only museum dedicated exclusively to the science of palaeontology. Not only do they have the world’s largest number of dinosaurs on display, there is a lot of other great activities to do in and around the museum! Kids and adults will love this day of learning and discovery.

Drumheller is in the Alberta badlands, which offer amazing guided or solo hiking excursions. In the badlands you will also find hoodoos, canyons, ghost towns and a suspension bridge.

End the day at one of the many campsites, and enjoy the sun setting over the red rocks.

For more information on the Royal Tyrrell Museum, click here.

For information on exploring the badlands, click here.

Celebrate Canada!

Canada celebrated 150 years this year, and the Canadian National Parks are offering free admission for the year! Whether it’s a staycation, or a destination for your family, Canada is a beautiful country with an amazing landscape of the sea, mountains, and everything in between!

The Rocky Mountains are my backyard, so I’m a little partial to Banff National Park and the surrounding area. Start the day with one of the many incredible hikes for all ages and skill levels,  canoe on scenic Lake Louise, and stop to enjoy the breathtaking views of Morainne Lake (pictured) during an afternoon picnic. If you’re lucky you might even get to spot an elk, coyote, bear or a moose. End the night under the stars camping in one of the beautiful mountain campsites, or spend the night at a castle like Banff Springs hotel!

Wherever you stay, or whatever activities you decide to do, the kids will definitely be in awe of their surroundings.

For more information on all of Canada’s National Parks, click here.

Paradise Found

Of course Hawaii is going to be on this list...it’s cliche, yes. But have you experienced Hawaii before? If you have, then you now what I’m feeling.

Hawaii is truly one of the most magical places in the world. You feel it as soon as you get off the plane. Yes, there are beaches, and yes they are amazing. But there’s so much more to do in Hawaii, on all the islands.

Kauai is my favorite island because it’s very lush. It has Waimea canyon, which is a full day hike, kayak tours up the Wailua River which ends with a short hike to a hidden waterfall.

The Big Island has an active volcano you can tour, rainforests to explore, and desert areas.  Mauna Kea is the world’s tallest mountain, and you can take a tour to the top to watch the sunset and the most amazing star show you’ll ever see! What better way to reconnect with family and nature then seeing the universe unfold before your eyes?

All the islands offer fishing, snorkeling, hiking, camping, surfing...you name it. It has so much beauty everywhere you look, it takes your breath away.

For these and more adventures in Hawaii, click here.

Look In Your Own Backyard

Whether it’s your own backyard, a staycation, or a destination, immerse your soul in nature with your family. Explore, reconnect, ground yourself in the beauty that surrounds us.Those little day trips to places nearby can have an amazing effect on the being and create lifelong memories. Check out camping spots, day trips or new trails you haven’t explored yet!

We’d love to see where your family adventures this summer! Tag us on Instagram and Facebook!