What’s to Love: This site highlights all kinds of adventures. Granted, sometimes the “adventures” are more like cushy vacations or a walks in nearby parks. However, I want the site to feature a little something for every family. Every once in awhile, we kick it up a notch (e.g., Rock Climbing at Smith Rock, Free Riding near Hood River, Hiking Cooper Spur, etc.). The Tree to Tree Aerial Adventure Park (Gaston, Oregon) brings the level of adventure up SEVERAL notches, especially if you venture off 60 feet in the air to try their black course.
What’s to Love: I was just at a conference on teaching and learning in Chicago, IL (July, 2010). The keynote speech had a profound and urgent message. The message was that “play,” not as a concept, but an actual act, especially imaginative/creative play, is vital to our well being. The speaker said, “There are consequences of play deprivation…” and cited some truly disturbing examples that I won’t get into here. I think the fear-based culture has ultimately led to a decline in play. TrackersPDX offers some innovative and unique summer camp programs that will take your kids on wonderful journeys both in their minds and on their feet (usually at the same time).
What’s to Love: Sunriver feels like a community built around 30+ miles of paved walking/biking paths. When you’re there, it feels like everything (i.e., the pools, the tennis courts, the homes, condos, etc.) was an afterthought to this incredible network of trails. Most of the time, these paved trails are completely separated from the roads, which adds an element of safety.
What’s to Love: After leaving Sunriver Resort, we decided to stop at the Lava Lands Visitor Center and check-out the awesome cinder cone – Lava Butte. Driving down 97, you cannot miss this 500 foot high volcano, which erupted 7000 years ago and covered 9 square miles with lava. If you want to get your kids’ attention, just say, “We’re going to drive-up a real volcano!”
What’s to Love: When we used to live in Northeast Portland, we’d frequent Fernhill Park with our dog. As you can see, there is PLENTY of green space for romping, stomping, running, and jumping. With the tall trees providing cover on the north end, this is a stunning park and the perfect destination if you feel like you need a little space.
