Adventures with kids

On the road again!

It's that time once again - a father / son adventure, which has become a tradition and one of the most joyful times of the year. I encourage parents to take their kids on adventures and ditch the screens.  Ok, maybe at least when you’re not driving! 

These journeys are more than just fun getaways; they’re powerful experiences that can challenge kids in new ways, helping them grow in confidence and discover their own resilience. Whether hiking unfamiliar trails or navigating a new city, every moment sparks creativity, strengthens your bond, and encourages physical activity through hands-on exploration. No matter where you go, there’s always something new to uncover—and that’s the real magic.  The greatest reward though is the lasting memories you will create!

This year’s action packed adventure led west to Colorado where we summited the rocky road to Hagerman Pass. Jack learned to be our “spotter,” helping to guide our trucks over the rugged terrain. We dispersed camped under the stars with friends in some of Colorado’s most beautiful BLM lands, went hiking in the steep mountains in Buena Vista and even learned to pan for gold (I’m still at work, so obviously that didn’t “pan” out so well!).  In Salida, Jack challenged himself with rock wall climbing and watched river surfers of all ages take on the big wave.

From Colorado, we continued to South Dakota, exploring Mount Rushmore, the Presidential Wax Museum, a 160 acre homestead farm built in 1909, a car museum housing one of the surviving General Lees and even got in a little time for golf (well miniature anyway!). We wrapped up the journey camping and hiking among prairie dogs, and bison in the Badlands National Park.

As our trip ended, we put Adventure One back in storage and caught a ferry home—returning just in time for sunset.