Families are emerging from their pandemic bubbles and planning travel once again. Here are five ideas to consider.
The Point, Saranac Lake, N.Y.
For an over-the-top return to travel experience, consider a stay at The Point, an intimate lakefront private Adirondack estate that was originally built as a Great Camp for William Avery Rockefeller II. Imagine a luxurious twist on an old-school summer camp experience with activities that might include boating, fishing, tennis, water skiing, croquet, badminton, swimming, wake-surfing, kayaking, paddle boarding, hiking or a round of golf at the Saranac Inn golf course. A Relais & Châteaux member, The Point is the only Adirondack Great Camp from the Gilded Age that is open to the public. Currently, children 18 and older are welcome. However, buyouts of the 11-room property are possible so that multi-generational gatherings with young children may be enjoyed.
Contact: https://thepointresort.com
Jackson County, N.C.
With more than 3,000 miles of trout streams and 1,100 miles of hatchery-supported trout waters in the mountains alone, North Carolina is a fly-fishing and outdoor lover’s haven. It’s home to the nation’s only designated fly-fishing trail, (Western North Carolina Fly Fishing Trail) that leads anglers to 15 prime spots in the Great Smoky Mountains to cast a line. Expect a variety of options from wide-open rivers to small, secluded streams. The heart of the trail, the Tuckasegee River, or the Tuck as it’s known to locals, is the county’s largest body of water. Designed by two outdoorsmen and fly-fishing guides, the trail is an ideal way for fly-fishers of all skill levels and ages to learn the art of fly-fishing.
Contact: www.Flyfishingtrail.com; www.discoverjacksonnc.com/outdoors/
Hike and raft in the West
Join Western River Expeditions for an outdoor adventure that blends the best of whitewater rafting with extraordinary hikes, many of which are only accessible via a river. Consider a Cataract Canyon run through the heart of Canyonlands National Park for stunning scenery and whitewater thrills. At river mile 31, you’ll be treated to a hike that offers a spectacular seasonal waterfall, towering 2,000-foot canyon walls and Native American ruins. After an easy streamside walk, guests encounter The Falls — a thundering 20-foot cascade that’s most spectacular in the spring when runoff and seasonal rains create an impressive stream flow. Ancestral Puebloan rock art and well-preserved granaries along the way speak to past lives. Modern adventurers can soak under the falls, dip in the natural pool or slide down the smooth rocks into the water.
Contact: www.westernriver.com/cataract-canyon-rafting
Explore the California coast
Located at the northern end of Monterey Bay, on 19 acres of Pacific shoreline, The Sanctuary Beach Resort, part of the Independent Collection, offers a comfortable base camp to explore the scenic area or simply relax and enjoy all that the coastal location offers. Rest up in cottage-style accommodations and then set out to take in the vistas from the Monterey Recreation Trail, where you can bike or skate along the shoreline. Consider spending the day exploring Big Sur, California’s famous, rugged coastline. This 90-mile stretch is home to otherworldly landscapes shaped by canyons, cliffs, turquoise ocean, waterfalls, and spectacular beaches. Hike, cycle the winding roads or savor the views and taste treats at a local lunch spot.
Contact: www.independentcollection.com; www.VisitCalifornia.com
Mackinac Island, Mich.
You’ll find Michigan’s iconic island in Lake Huron, between Michigan’s upper and lower peninsulas. You won’t find chain hotels or even cars. So hop on a bike or in a horse drawn carriage to explore the picturesque island along with locals and other visitors. In just under 4 square miles, you’ll find a spacious lake front, outdoor dining, casual picnic spots, putt-putt golf, interesting shops and farm-to-ferry culinary offerings. Consider a stay at The Grand Hotel for its historic grandeur or check in to the iconic Mission Point Resort and enjoy the sprawling Great Lawn dotted with colorful Adirondack chairs.
It goes without saying that you shouldn’t leave the island without sampling the world-famous Mackinac Island fudge.
Contact: www.MackinacIsland.org
Lynn O’Rourke Hayes (LOHayes.com ) is an author, family travel expert and enthusiastic explorer. Gather more travel intel on Twitter @lohayes, Facebook, or via FamilyTravel.com
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