While the Yosemite Firefall phenomenon—when Yosemite National Park’s Horsetail Fall reflects the colors of the setting sun, creating the glorious illusion of fire pouring down El Capitan—is never guaranteed, it attracts thousands of visitors every year. While I usually prefer to enjoy nature without crowds, part of what makes this event special is sharing the moment with other people. If you also want to enjoy this natural lightshow, read on for my tips on how to make the most of this year’s Yosemite Firefall opportunity.

What causes the Yosemite firefall?

For a few weeks every year, the winter sun hits the water cascading from the east side of El Capitan in Yosemite National Park, California, creating the striking effect of lava pouring down the dark cliff. There is no hike or climb required—all you need is to be in the right spot, at the right time. 

Two important conditions must be met: the water must be flowing, and the skies must be clear. Last year, Yosemite’s falls benefited from multiple snowstorms in January paired with an unusually warm February, creating plenty of snowmelt to power the falls. You can check out the Yosemite webcams to get an idea of how much water is flowing this year. Sunshine is also key. My first attempt to see a firefall ten years ago was frustrated by stubbornly overcast skies, so I was delighted to get a second chance last year.

Today’s Firefall is entirely natural, but the name comes from a popular former tourist attraction at Yosemite National Park. For almost 100 years, visitors assembled at Camp Curry after dark on summer nights and watched as burning embers were tipped over the cliff in a cascade of flame. 

In the 1960s, the tradition was dropped over wildfire concerns and a desire to emphasize the natural wonders of Yosemite over artificial spectacle. Just five years after the old Firefall ended, photographer Galen Rowell noticed the beautiful trick of light on Horsetail Fall and published the image that launched a new tradition.

What are the dates for Yosemite firefall in 2026?

The firefall occurs mid-to-late February, from around February 15 to February 26. The weekend of 14-15 February, Presidents Day on 16 February, and the weekend of 21-22 February will likely be crowded with hopeful spectators. Because the firefall depends on sunny weather, it’s best to plan for a few days in the park to maximize your chances of clear skies. 

Do I need reservations to see the Yosemite firefall in 2026?

After guests damaged sensitive riverside areas in 2022, Yosemite National Park introduced a reservation system to limit crowds during February weekends. Although there will be restrictions in place to protect the park, no reservations to Yosemite National Park are required to visit in 2026.

You will need a pass to enter the park, which you can buy at the gates.

Where do I go to see the firefall?

Despite the crowds, I was easily able to find a nice spot to wait until the 15 minutes before sunset when the magic happens. We drove to the nearest parking lot, near Yosemite Falls, then walked along Northside Drive until we found a good spot in an area next to the road (it’s clear from all the photographers where to go.) If you can’t find a space for your car, park in Yosemite Village and take the free shuttle bus to Yosemite Falls (stop seven or stop eight). 

This area, easy of the El Capitan picnic area, is known as the north view. It’s great because there is plenty of space for everyone—no need to get there mega early to nab a good viewing spot. We arrived at around 3.30 p.m on a pretty busy day, and there were still people arriving after us.

The other (and more popular viewpoint) is at Cathedral Beach, called the south view. We had lunch there earlier in the day and noted the many photographers already set up for sunset. It is a really scenic spot at a bend in the Merced River, but I recommend setting up early if you are keen to secure a good view here due to the crowds. 

Wherever you decide to go, you will have to park up and walk, as the road is closed to vehicles parking and stopping between the Yosemite Falls and El Capitan parking lots to give pedestrians more space. From the parking lot at Yosemite Falls, it’s about 1.5 miles to the nearest viewing spot.

You could try to find other, less crowded spots in Yosemite to enjoy the view, but you don’t want to miss the moment searching for that perfect place.

What should I pack to see the firefall?

You don’t need a camera to enjoy the experience, but if you do bring one, I would recommend setting it up on a tripod. As the light fades, you will need to switch to a longer exposure time and holding it by hand risks a blurry shot. Otherwise, I would suggest camping chairs, water, plenty of snacks, and warm clothing. If you have kids with you, maybe something for them to do while you wait.

Don’t forget you are going to be walking back to your car in the dark, so bring a light like a headlamp, or one of these beanies with a built-in light (these are so perfect for kids).

Where should I stay in Yosemite National Park?

Within the park, your options are Yosemite Valley Lodge, the Ahwahnee Hotel, or camping. I love camping, but it’s way too cold for me in February. If you don’t want to stay within Yosemite National Park, there are many options just outside the gates (note it’s a 40-minute drive from the entrances to Yosemite Valley).

I booked Tenaya Lodge for its family-friendly credentials, and recommend this hotel if you don’t mind the drive into the valley. Located just outside Yosemite’s south entrance on Highway 41, guests get access to an indoor pool, game room, lobby with fireplace, s’mores for toasting, an ice rink in the winter months, and yoga classes—all included in the room fee. This was a real selling point for my kids, who didn’t want to spend the entire break hiking and taking pictures of waterfalls.

I have also stayed in the cute gateway town of Mariposa on past visits. The Best Western in Mariposa is a great budget option for a Yosemite trip.

If you want to stay in a cabin, there is a small community within the park at Wawona. I booked this Yosemite home on a trip with another family, and there was plenty of space for everyone, plus we saved some money by cooking for ourselves.

Firefall at Yosemite is a beautiful sight, but there is so much more to Yosemite National Park. I have another article focused on some of the easier, family-friendly trails you can take in the Valley, so check out Yosemite with a Toddler for ideas on what to do with the rest of your trip.

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If you’re craving a break from school events, shopping, and general holiday season craziness—step away from the gift wrap and plan a Christmas in California escape. From snowy mountain ski resorts to sunny beaches, cute towns to Christmas markets, California has something for everyone. Here are a few ideas to get you started. Happy Holidays!

White Christmas in California

California snow seekers head to the mountains in winter for skiing, sledding, or snuggling by a log fire. Lake Tahoe is the most popular spot to hit the slopes, with 15 resorts ringing the famous lake, but there are plenty more destinations to pick from. Here are a few of my favorites.

Bear Valley 

Arnold is a small mountain town just 2.5 hours away from the Bay Area, close enough for a day trip to the snow. At 4,000 feet elevation, Arnold is not guaranteed snow, but drive further up Highway 4 and the winter landscape will start to reveal itself. After 25 miles you will arrive at the Bear Valley Ski Resort. There are a couple of snow parks in the area for sledding, plus a groomed route for snowmobiles. I love this area, as it is quiet, easy to drive to, and inexpensive.

Stay at the Bear Valley Lodge for easy access to the slopes, or rent a cabin in Arnold to be closer to restaurants and shops.

Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks

This is the perfect excuse to visit the nation’s Christmas Tree in King’s Canyon National Park. Every year since 1926, the nearby town of Sanger holds a Christmas service at General Grant Tree on the second Sunday of December. Winter is a beautiful time of year to visit the giant sequoias, when snow adds a touch of magic and the crowds are sparse.

Within the Sequoia National Park, Wuksachi Lodge is open until late December, offering modern rooms with in a traditional style. Up to three kids can stay in a deluxe room, and you can also bring your pet. You can also stay just outside the park at Montecito Sequoia Lodge, an all-inclusive lodge with fun activities like sledding, archery and s’mores by the fire. It’s closed for 2025 but will reopen for 2026.

Yosemite National Park at Christmas

If you have seen pictures of Yosemite in the snow, you’ll get it: this is the best and also least crowded season in California’s iconic National Park. The waterfalls are in full flow, and the snow-dusted landscape adds to the magic. There’s outdoor skating at Curry Village, skiing at Badger Pass and many of the trails are open.

Ahwahnee Hotel, Yosemite’s famous lodge, is perfect for a winter escape, and is often priced at a discount to the peak summer season. The hotel hosts the Bracebridge Dinner in December, an annual ticketed event featuring a seven-course banquet and Christmas-themed theater. You don’t need to be a guest of the hotel to join in the fun, but act fast, as seats sell out.

Big Bear Lake

Not to be confused with Bear Valley in northern California, Big Bear Lake is a small mountain town within a three-hour drive east of downtown Los Angeles. Snow is not guaranteed, but there are plenty of winter activities like an annual Christmas market (Christkindlemarkt, December 20, 2025), Santa visits and festive lights. Can’t decide between a boutique hotel and a cozy cabin? Have both at Nobel and Proper, an impeccably stylish property blending privacy with concierge service.

Christmas in Disneyland California

As you would imagine, Disneyland California goes hard at Christmas. Step through the gates and celebrate the season without having to do any of the stressful adult stuff. Obviously this is going to be a very commercialized (and expensive) option, but it’s also my favorite time to visit the parks: the weather is cooler, the decorations are beautiful, and there are some great food options. Will it be busy? If you’re going when school is out, absolutely. Still worth it.

My family have stayed on and off property, and both have their advantages. Staying at a Disney hotel—either the Grand Californian, Pixar Place or Disneyland Hotel—-grants you early entry to the park, so you have 30 minutes to rush to your chosen ride before the gates open to everyone else. However, Disney is changing that perk to one Lightning Lane entry during their stay as of January 5, 2026, so visit before then if you want to take advantage of the early opening.

The Sheraton Anaheim is less than half a mile away and offers a free shuttle to the parks, while the Travelodge Anaheim includes breakfast in the price. If you are visiting with young kids who cannot go on the big rides, there is no real reason to be up super early, so save your money for a character breakfast instead.

A Central Coast California Christmas

Forget the snow and enjoy the sunshine instead. While you will probably get some rain, December is still a beautiful time of year all along California’s central coast between San Franciso and Los Angeles. For a laid-back, barefoot-walks-on-the-beach vibe, I love Cambria, a small community near Hearst Castle. During December, don’t miss the Cambria Christmas Market with stalls, live music, and—of course—Santa. The Cambria Pines Lodge is a family-friendly hotel, with a cheery lounge and hot breakfast included. 

Carmel-by-the-Sea is another endearing coastal Christmas destination. The cottages throughout the village are straight out of a fairytale, and you won’t miss the snow when you can have a white sand beach instead. Stay at Carmel Valley Ranch, a luxurious yet laid-back hotel where kids can meet the goats and chickens, and you can take a cocktail-making class. 

With its Spanish-style architecture, palm-fringed beaches, and mountain backdrop, Santa Barbara is easy on the eye. But there is also plenty to do for families looking for a laid-back coastal Christmas break. December is the best time to see the gray whale migration, either from dry land at Shoreline Park or by taking a boat cruise from the harbor. Staying with an animal theme, the Santa Barbara Zoo is especially fun lit up for the holiday season during the Winter Lights event. Check into Hotel Santa Barbara in the heart of downtown to stay close to the action.

Christmas in the city

Stay in one of California’s great cities and enjoy the festive lights, performances, and traditions around town. 

San Jose at Christmas

Silicon Valley’s biggest city goes all out for Christmas, hosting the long-running Christmas in the Park at Plaza de Chavez (daily 6-11pm Nov. 28 to Jan 1, free entry), an ice rink, and fairground rides at Winter Wonderland. Round out your trip with tickets to The Nutcracker at San Jose Dance Theater, and a walk through Willow Glen, a San Jose neighborhood with beautifully decorated trees. Stay in Hotel Valencia in Santana Row for walkable access to restaurants and shops.

Christmas in San Francisco

Union Square is the center of Christmas celebrations in San Francisco, with a giant Christmas tree and an outdoor skating rink. Nearby department store Neiman Marcus also boasts a huge tree, while Macy’s welcomes adorable (and adoptable) puppies and kittens to its festive window display. 

Check out the Fairmont Hotel for its giant gingerbread house, and if you’re feeling fancy, stay for a Christmas-themed afternoon tea. The Great Dickens Christmas Fair is another San Francisco tradition, where the vast Cow Palace is transformed into the streets of Victorian London. San Franciscans will take any opportunity to dress in costume, so feel free to come as your favorite Dickensian character. As for accommodation, book a room at The Westin St. Francis if you want to stay in the heart of the action at Union Square.

Christmas in Los Angeles

You know Tinseltown is going to be a special place for the holiday season. With its mild winter climate, you can enjoy the Los Angeles festive spirit without feeling frostbite nipping at your toes. See Hogwarts Castle covered in snow and illuminated for the holidays at Universal Studios, and celebrate the season with your favorite characters at Disneyland in Anaheim. Stroll down Christmas Tree Lane (actually Santa Rosa Avenue) in Altadeana, and enjoy a century-old Christmas neighborhood tradition. Stay in Hyatt Centric Delfina Santa Monica if you want to be close to the beach, or The Hollywood Roosevelt if you want to stay close to all the Hollywood attractions.

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In 1891, reports of monster trees discovered deep in the California Sierras were dismissed as tall tales, until loggers felled one such giant and hauled it across the country to astonished crowds in New York. Fortunately, we don’t need to chop down giant sequoias to appreciate them anymore, as the beautiful Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are easy to visit any time of year. And while the biggest draw is the mighty trees, there are plenty of other Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks kid-friendly activities to discover. Here’s my personal top five things to do in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks with kids.

Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks facts

• This is a two-for-one deal here, as the two national parks —Sequoia and Kings Canyon— are neighbors. You can easily visit both in one trip.
• The Sequoia National Park entrance is at Ash Mountain, through the town of Three Rivers on Highway 198, while the Kings Canyon National Park entrance at Big Stump is on Highway 180. Take the Big Stump route if you have a large RV, or kids who get travel sick, as the road is straighter.
• In the busy summer months, take advantage of the free shuttle bus to avoid parking problems.
• Both parks are only around a four-hour drive from both the California Bay Area and Los Angeles.
• Pets are not allowed on any of the trails.

Take a hike on a Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks kid-friendly trail

Even with hike-hating kids (I should know, I have one), there are plenty of easy Sequoia National and Kings Canyon Parks hikes with kids to explore. The paved trails below are all easy to get to and complete whether you are carrying, strolling, or chasing your kids. In the winter months, park at the trailheads. In summer, hop on the shuttle to get around.

General Grant Tree Trail Loop

Don’t miss this paved, third-of-a-mile loop trail in Kings Canyon National Park. Although General Grant is not the largest tree in the park, at 106 feet in circumference, it’s still pretty remarkable.

However, the highlight for our kids (eight and six) was the Fallen Monarch, a huge, hollowed-out sequoia big enough to run through. While most of the trees are “hands off” to prevent damage, this is a unique opportunity to explore the inside of a redwood.

Big Trees Trail

Another paved loop, this 0.7-mile stroll around a lush meadow features a ton of information about redwood trees, plus it’s located less than a mile from the Giant Forest Museum in Sequoia National Park.

General Sherman Tree

The world’s largest tree, General Sherman, is also located in Sequoia National Park, a short drive from the Big Trees Trail at Congress Trail. This implausibly massive tree has to be seen to be believed. Take a few minutes to tour the 102-foot circumference before heading off on the paved, two-mile loop to gawp at more grand trees.

Drive through Tunnel Log

In 1937, a 275-foot sequoia fell across Crescent Meadow Road in Sequoia National Park. Rather than chop through it, Civilian Conservation Corp workers created a tunnel through the giant tree, creating a fun drive-through experience. We visited during the winter when the road was closed to cars, but we got to walk through it instead.

Discover the magical Crystal Cave

Take a break from looking up and go underground into the glittering Crystal Cave in Sequoia National Park. Hidden in a canyon, the cave system was created by water flowing over marble deposits, and is famed for its delicate crystal formations. 

Tours through Sequoia National Conservancy are available from May to September, but book at least two months out for this popular activity. If you think your littlest can handle the 50-minute excursion, this is hands down one of the best things to do in Sequoia National Park with kids.

Climb to a spectacular viewpoint

Can’t see the forest for the trees? Head to Moro Rock, the granite dome which looms 6,000 feet above Sequoia National Park. With sweeping views of the redwoods, the San Joaquin Valley and the Sierra Nevada mountains beyond, it’s well worth the 350 steps to get up to the observation point. 

While there are guardrails, safety is still something to consider if you have little kids. If you’re looking for a smaller adventure, try Beetle Rock or Sunset Rock, two short trails that start from the Giant Forest Museum. These are also epic spots for a picnic.

Gaze at the stars

My favorite time to be in a National Park is at night. As the crowds drift away, the wildlife reclaims the space and the sky blazes with all the stars that are invisible to me in the city. Although Sequoia and Kings Canyon are not one of the 40 National Parks certified as International Dark Sky Places, they are still great places to stargaze. Bring a camping chair and a warm blanket to an open spot like Lodgepole campground and enjoy the celestial show.

During the summer, you will often find a Ranger program offering a moonlit hike or stargazing talk. Sequoia Parks Conservancy offers stargazing tours, or you could book a private stargazing tour just for your group.

Bonus activity: Become a Junior Ranger

All National Parks in the USA offer this free activity—complete a booklet, show a ranger and be sworn in as a protector of the parks. Kids and park rangers take this seriously, and it’s a beautiful way to keep children engaged and occupied in quiet moments. Ask for a Junior Ranger booklet on entrance or in any visitor center. 

Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park itinerary with kids

It’s only a 90-minute car ride along the Generals Highway from the entrance of Sequoia National Park to Kings Canyon National Park, so this could easily be a one-day itinerary during the summer months. In the winter, you would not be able to visit Crystal Cave, nor climb to the top of Moro Rock. However, I would still recommend visiting during the winter months—the trees are absolutely beautiful covered in snow and there are no crowds.

Combine a visit to Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Parks with a trip to another California National Park—Yosemite is just over a two-hour drive from Kings Canyon, Death Valley is four and Joshua Tree around five hours. It’s also about four hours to Los Angeles, so you could tack on a trip to Disneyland or Universal Studios.

Family resorts near Sequoia National Park

One of the best things about visiting Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks with kids is the great accommodation options. We stayed in Three Rivers for one night at Buckeye Tree Lodge, a comfortable and affordable motel just 20 minutes from the gates of Sequoia National Park. We enjoyed freshly ground coffee on our terrace to the sound of the river rushing by, and the kids loved playing on the rope swing.

If you want the camping experience without the hassle, Autocamp has a location in Three Rivers. You’ll be staying in a cosy and very chic Airstream, with your own campfire just outside. I haven’t stayed at this location, but it’s very highly rated by other families.

You can also stay inside Sequoia National Park at Wuksachi Lodge, a relatively new hotel with a traditional log cabin style. I didn’t get a chance to stay here either on our trip but TripAdvisor reviews are solid. Wuksachi Lodge welcomes guests year-round, while John Muir Lodge in Kings Canyon National Park is open for the spring and summer seasons only.

But my absolute favorite family resort near Sequoia National Park is Montecito Sequoia Lodge, a year-round family camp experience. As an all-inclusive hotel (rare in the USA!) this place is great value for money. All meals, including a wine-and-cheese hour in the evening, are included, plus two counsellor-led activities a day for kids. We visited over Thanksgiving, and my children enjoyed a couple of craft activities, went sledding, tried their hand at archery and toasted many s’mores by the fire. Screens are discouraged, but you won’t miss them.

Best family camping in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park

In Sequoia National Park, Lodgepole Campground is the largest and most centrally located campground, with a visitor center, store, showers and laundry facilities. The campground is closed from December to May, usually opening just before Memorial Day. In Kings Canyon National Park, Sunset Campground is typically open May through August, and has an ampitheater for ranger programs. There are no showers however. For a more remote camping experience, try the campsites around Cedar Grove Village. Book your sites in advance at Recreation.gov, as camping spots fill up fast in California.

Sequoia National Park FAQs

What is the best month to visit Sequoia National Park?

If you want to camp, access remote areas of the parks, tour Crystal Springs Cave, or climb Moro Rock, you will need to visit in the summer between the months of June and September. However, the park is absolutely beautiful during the winter months. Just remember to bring snow chains.

What are the top 5 things to do at Sequoia National Park?

Check out General Grant and General Sherman trees, tour Crystal Springs Cave, climb Moro Rock, drive through Tunnel Log, and camp or take a night hike to see the stars.

How much does it cost to get into Sequoia National Park?

$35 will get you a seven-day vehicle pass for both Sequoia National Park and Kings Canyon National Park. Individuals on foot or bicycle pay $20 for a seven-day pass to both parks. You can also buy an America the Beautiful Pass for $80 for a year of entry to National Parks across the country.

Where should I stay if I visit Sequoia National Park?

There are so many great places to stay in and around Sequoia National Park. Three Rivers is a charming small town just outside the gates of Sequoia National Park with an outdoor store, gas station, restaurant and several motels. There are also lodges located within the park itself, plus Montecito Sequoia Lodge for a family camp experience. Campgrounds are also available both inside and outside of the parks.

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Pinnacles National Park is both ancient and brand new: formed 23 million years ago by an erupting volcano, the 26,000-acre site is one of the newest national parks in the United States. With its stunning caves, spiky towers, cool canyons, and family-friendly camping, you’ll find plenty of top things to do with kids at Pinnacles National Park.

What to know about Pinnacles National Park

Eastern Entrance: 5000 East Entrance Road

Paicines, CA 95043

This is the main entrance, where you will find most of the trails, the visitor center, and the campground

Entry cost: $30 for a seven-day pass for a vehicle and its passengers, valid for both entrances

This park is cashless so bring your credit card!

Pinnacles National Park facts

• Pinnacles National Park has two entrances—and there is no road through the park connecting the two.
• The park is key to saving the endangered California Condor.
• Pinnacles National Park was elevated into park status in 2013, but had been a National Monument since 1908.
• Due to its proximity to the famous San Andreas Fault, the park is moving northward at a rate of 0.59 inches a year.
• The park was formed by an erupting volcano 23 million years ago, and seismic activity has continued to shape the park to this day, creating the unique rock formations.

When to visit Pinnacles National Park

I have visited Pinnacles National Park in all seasons, and it is beautiful throughout the year. However, due to its inland location, it does get hot in the summer. Although my family survived a weekend camping with temperatures that never dipped below 100 degrees from 9 am until sunset (the outdoor pool available to campers helped a lot), I wouldn’t necessarily recommend it.

The weather during the spring and fall is most comfortable. If you can visit during the peak wildflower season between March and May, you’ll be treated to a kaleidoscope of color splashed across the landscape.

What to do in Pinnacles National Park with kids

If you’re based in the San Francisco Bay Area, Pinnacles National Park is a short 2.5-hour drive from San Francisco, perfect for a day trip or a weekend of camping. It’s important to mention there are two entrances: the west and the east.

The east entrance is closest to the Bay Area, while the west is closest to Monterey, gateway to the stunning stretch of coast known as Big Sur. There are no roads connecting the two, so you cannot drive through the park. You can access all of these trails from both entrances by foot, but if you are driving into the campground you must go through the east entrance.

Best trails for toddlers in Pinnacles National Park

The best trails for toddlers in Pinnacles National Park are also the best for everyone! These are my top recommendations. There aren’t a ton of paved trails in Pinnacles National Park, so I would recommend a toddler carrier for when the going gets tough. 

Bear Gulch Cave Trail

This short trail is so fun and is easily one of the best things to do with kids at Pinnacles National Park! Park at the Moses Springs parking area (a tiny car park, that usually fills up before 9 am on a weekend) or at Bear Gulch. Take the Moses Spring Trail and follow the signs for the caves. It’s a short, and thanks to the oak trees, shady ascent. Stick to the path and pick your way through these talus caves, formed by ancient tumbled boulders. 

Bring a headlamp or use your phone light as some sections get pretty dark. I bring the kids’ LED light beanies whenever we visit.

Once you have explored the caves, head back out the same way you came in, or continue up the steep set of stairs carved into the rock. At the top is a peaceful reservoir. Take the Rim Trail, which then connects to the High Peaks Trail, to return to the Moses Spring parking area.

Bench Trail

If you’re looking for a flat trail with plenty of shade, the Bench Trail is perfect. Starting from the campground, the refreshing sound of the creek accompanies you along the path, while  Valley Oak trees provide a welcome canopy. After about a mile, you can switch to the Sycamore Trail for Bear Gulch, or continue to the Old Pinnacles trailhead.

Best trails for older kids and teens

If your kids can handle some (OK a lot) of uphill trudging, you can head into the heart of the park and get a close look at those otherworldly pinnacles. Bring plenty of water and if you are visiting during the summer months, plan to complete your hike by 10 am, as the temperatures can hit triple digits.

High Peaks Trail

This is one of those “it will be worth it for the view” hikes starting with a long, exposed climb.  After catching your breath, admire the namesake granite rock formations, wildflowers cascading over the hillsides, and if you’re lucky, rare condors gliding overhead. Start from the Bear Gulch parking area and walk 1.7 miles along the Condor Gulch trail to the High Peaks trail. Follow the High Peaks trail through meadows, up rock steps in the “steep and narrow section”, and eventually down into shady woodland. This was a long walk at over seven miles, but a lot of fun.

Old Pinnacles Trail to Balconies Cave

The Balconies is the bigger brother to Bear Gulch Caves. The 5.3-mile there-and-back hike to the talus formation tracks the Chalone Creek, and sometimes involves crossing. If there has been a lot of recent rain, the caves may not be accessible, so check with a ranger first. While you could get away without a flashlight in Bear Gulch Caves, the Balconies are dark and spooky, so be sure to pack headlamps and waterproof shoes.

The Balconies are also accessible from the west entrance, and the trail from this side is shorter at 2.3 miles.

Pinnacles National Park camping

One of my favorite things to do with kids at Pinnacles National Park is Spend the night at the beautiful campsite, which includes access to an outdoor swimming pool during the summer. It’s a lot easier to motivate kids to hike in the morning with a promise of pool time and ice cream in the afternoon. Myself too, If I’m honest.

Book a tent, RV site or tent cabin through Recreation.gov. In addition to the camp shop and pool, there is a bathroom block with showers. Leashed dogs are allowed in the campground and on paved routes through the park.

All sites feature a picnic table and fire pit, with firewood available for sale at the camp shop.

The tent cabins are a great alternative to tent camping. The cabins sleep four and include a deck. You’ll need to bring your own bedding (you can rent anything you need at Sports Basement).

Where to stay in Pinnacles National Park

The only place to stay inside the park is at the campsite. If you are traveling from the Bay Area to the east entrance, Hollister is the nearest city with hotels. Stay at Casa de Fruta Cabins, a roadside fruit stand so popular it’s now a destination in itself.

 The closest accommodation outside the park on the west side is at Inn at the Pinnacles or the Motel 8 in Soledad. You could also make this a day trip from Monterey, a beautiful coastal city located just over an hour away.

Getting around Pinnacles National Park

During busy times (public holidays, weekends in spring) the smaller parking lots by the trailheads fill early. There are usually spots available by the campground. This means that you may have a long walk just to get to the trailhead, so take this into account when you visit.

There used to be a shuttle bus that would take visitors to the trailheads but it wasn’t running the last time we came. The best way to ensure a spot is to camp in the park so you can hit the trail nice and early.

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Wonder hides around every corner in California’s mysterious desert national park of Joshua Tree. Trails wind around towering boulders sculpted into surprising shapes by the elements, through fields of the otherworldly Joshua Trees, and into secret gardens waiting to be discovered. This natural playground is perfect for adventurers and dreamers of all ages.

Less than an hour from Palm Springs and under three from Los Angeles, Joshua Tree National Park has plenty of easy hiking trails, ideal for families with young children. It’s the perfect spring break or Thanksgiving destination when the climate is cool enough to be enjoyable.

Although Joshua Tree National Park feels like the middle of nowhere, it’s actually close to plenty of other fun Southern California destinations, so it’s easy to visit as part of a longer trip. If you have time, check out nearby Palm Springs for a relaxing stay at a kid-friendly resort, the thriving art community of Joshua Tree, or live out your Wild West fantasies at  Pioneertown.

Fun activities in Joshua Tree Park with a toddler

Even hike-hating kids will love these mostly flat trails, with plenty of interesting boulders to scramble up and around. Look out for interesting shapes, cool cacti and, if you’re lucky, the elusive desert bighorn sheep.

Hidden Valley

Sneak through a narrow gateway between boulders to discover a secret garden oasis. This flat, one-mile loop is lined with informative signs about the history and wildlife found in the area. We did this walk at sunset and felt like we had the whole place to ourselves. It’s a popular one with a small parking lot, so turn up before 9 am or after 5 pm for the best chance of snagging a spot. 

Discovery Trail

This 0.8-mile trail was designed by local students, so you know it’s kid-approved. Stroll through sandy washes, pop through mini slot canyons, and look out for the mildly creepy Skull Rock. 

Cholla Cactus Garden

Follow the boardwalk for 0.25 miles through this patch of teddy bear cholla cactus. This fluffy-looking (but not feeling!) plant thrives over this 10-acre area — and almost nowhere else. The cacti are especially beautiful at sunset and sunrise, when the thousands of plants glow in the golden light. Keep your toddler close though, this is definitely a look, but don’t touch, situation.

Skull Rock

This bizarre granite rock formation, created by wind and rain over thousands of years, is located on the main east-west park road. The 1.7-mile loop hike that starts from the popular spot is a bonus, and is flush with flowers in the spring.

Things to do in Joshua Tree Park with older kids

Barker Dam

Another short loop at 1.1 miles, this hike is a microcosm of human settlement in the desert. The path takes you to a dam built in 1900 by early ranchers and offers a look at rock art, thought to be created 2,000 years ago. The start of this trail involves scrambling over some boulders, but it’s an easy walk after the rocky start. On the way back, you’ll get a close look at the ethereal Joshua trees lining the trail.

Bouldering and rock climbing

Book an expert-led family rock climbing adventure for a memorable day out in Joshua Tree. All climbing gear, including for small children, is provided, and as this is a private group tour, you can go at your own pace.

Keys Ranch Tour

Book a tour of Keys Ranch if you’re visiting between October and May for an insight into life as a rancher in the California desert. These 90-minute tours sell out fast, so book as soon as you know your dates if you want to check out this early 20th-century homestead. 

Junior Ranger book

Get your kids a Junior Ranger workbook on entry to the park, and on completion they will earn a badge from a ranger. These activity books are great for keeping kids entertained and informed as you make your way across the park.

Where to stay in Joshua Tree National Park with kids

If you want to stay inside the park, tent or trailer camping is the only option. However, it doesn’t take long to drive into the park if you’re not feeling that outdoorsy.

Camping in Joshua Tree National Park with kids

Five campsites in Joshua Tree National Park are available to reserve, while three are first come, first served. If you want water and flush toilets, make a reservation at Black Rock or Cottonwood. Make your reservations on the recreation.gov website. Camping allows you to see some of the wildlife that becomes more active at twilight, like the cute desert kangaroo rat. Plus the stargazing here is incredible.

If you want to camp but don’t have all the gear, try renting a van through Outdoorsy or a tent and sleeping bags at Sports Basement. 

Staying outside Joshua Tree National Park

There are a lot of fun family accommodations just outside the park. Check out the instagram-famous Invisible House, or The Outlaw in Pioneertown, which was featured on Netflix show “World’s Most Amazing Vacation Rentals”.

Or stay in an iconic Airstream at Autocamp Joshua Tree for a comfortable camping experience, just outside the park’s entrance. If you’re looking for a chain hotel, the Fairfield Inn and Suites in Twenty Nine Palms is a ten-minute drive to Joshua Tree National Park, offers a free breakfast, and has a pool.

Family-friendly things to do outside Joshua Tree National Park

Take a 25-minute drive east to Pioneertown, the film set/vacation town established in 1946 by a group of Wild West movie enthusiasts. Although the popularity of Westerns has waned, this quirky outpost has clung on thanks to the likes of Pappy and Harriet’s, a legendary restaurant and live music venue that has hosted luminaries from Paul McCartney to Lizzo.

The Noah Purifoy Outdoor Museum is a free, open-air gallery in Joshua Tree. It’s a collection of sculptures created by the artist Noah Purifoy, made entirely from junked materials, and is the perfect contrast to the natural beauty of Joshua Tree National Park.

If you’re thinking a cocktail would go great with all those palm trees, the resort town of Palm Springs is located just under an hour’s drive from the southern entrance to Joshua Tree National Park. With plenty of outdoor dining, a cute zoo, and a fun aerial tramway, there is plenty to do for families on a spring or Thanksgiving break.

What to bring to Joshua Tree National Park

Prepare for the desert climate with hats, sunglasses, lip balm, and sunscreen during the day, and warm layers for the night when the temperature can drop sharply. If you’re planning on doing any longer hikes, take a map and a compass, plus hiking whistles for the kids so they can stay safe if they run out of sight.

When to go to Joshua Tree National Park

Due to the high temperatures in the summer time, this national park is best avoided June-September. The best times to visit are in the spring and fall, making Joshua Tree National Park the perfect spot for a spring, Thanksgiving, Christmas, or February break trip. Although the park doesn’t get a lot of rainfall, it does get cold in the wintertime. We visited during Thanksgiving week, and although the daytime temperatures were balmy, the nights were cold.

If you visit in October, you could catch the annual Night Sky Festival, a celebration of the skies with activities for all ages. On the other hand, April is ideal if you want to see the desert in bloom.

The post Joshua Tree with Kids: Family-Friendly Desert Adventures appeared first on Tiny Trailblazers.

Here’s a question for you: is going to a place called Death Valley with kids a good idea? Unlike most parenting dilemmas, this one is easily answered. 

California’s Death Valley National Park is an incredible, otherworldly land full of mystery, natural wonders – and fun. Clamber through canyons, slide down sand dunes, and stand in the lowest, hottest, and driest spot in North America. 

By day, explore the deserts, mountains, and astonishing landscapes of the park. At night, cozy up under a blanket and marvel at the stars under some of the darkest skies in the country. 

Despite the dramatic name, Death Valley is a natural playground perfect for families of all ages and abilities to explore. In a national park the size of Connecticut, there’s something for everyone.

Search for Star Wars locations

Before Death Valley was a national park, it was a national monument – and the location for many of the scenes used in Star Wars: A New Hope. As you wind your way through the park, it’s obvious why this area was chosen as the setting for another planet in a galaxy far, far away.

The best way to find (and recreate) your favorite scenes is to download the free National Park app, which you can use offline, and listen to the self-guided Star Wars tour. This audio tour guides you to the right spots and offers interesting details about the movie, like how the children of the park rangers were cast as extras during the shoot.

Golden Canyon is my favorite location. This canyon, with its high, yellow-hued walls, is featured in a scene where the droid R2D2 is captured by Jawas. The trail is great fun for kids as there are plenty of rocks to scramble on, secret caves to poke around, and little pathways to explore.

The sand dunes of Mesquite Flats are featured in another famous scene featuring the hapless droids as they traipse across the desert of Tatooine. Both of these locations are easy to access and great for Star Wars fans.

Go sledding on sand dunes

Bringing your sled to one of the hottest places in the world may seem odd, but stay with me. The undulating golden sand dunes at Mesquite Flats are perfect for hauling a sled to the top before whizzing down again.

They are also good for pretending to be an explorer, digging, rolling down, and generally getting sandy. I brought some LEGO figures to play with (I mean, for the kids to play with), and we spent an hour or so playing in this giant sandbox.

After Mesquite Flats, it’s a five-minute drive to Stovepipe Wells Village, where you can grab a drink and a snack at the General Store, or get lunch at the hotel.

Walk with a park ranger

Park Rangers regularly offer guided hikes on popular trails, where you can hear stories about the history of Death Valley and learn about the wildlife found in the area. Check for times at Furnace Creek Visitor Center or on the calendar.

If you’re staying overnight, a guided night walk is a great activity. Bring a flashlight with a red light to keep your night vision intact, and join rangers for a guided tour of the night sky.

Gaze at the stars

Death Valley’s remote location and sparse population create the ideal conditions for dark night skies. After working with the Dark Skies Association, Death Valley National Park was awarded the highest level of dark skies, making it one of the best places in the country to stargaze. 

Stargazing is a simple, yet inspiring night-time activity. All you have to do is look up to see stars you wouldn’t ordinarily glimpse in our light-polluted cities. It’s nice to have a star map, so you can point out the constellations, which you can download as an app before entering the park, or pick up a book from the visitor center.

Become a Junior Ranger

Before embarking on your Death Valley adventure, swing by the Furnace Creek Visitor Center and pick up a Junior Ranger booklet. These activity books are great for not only educating kids about the park, but also for keeping them engaged with fun activities.

There’s a swearing-in ceremony and a badge as a reward for finishing their books, and it’s a great motivator. 

Explore an old mine

The legend of the 20-mule team (as featured on packs of Borax) was born at Harmony Borax Works in 1883. The mineral is best known as a cleaning ingredient but has also been used in food and cosmetics, and was termed “white gold” for its importance.

For five years, the mine at Death Valley was producing three tons of borax daily, with huge mule teams hauling wagons across the desert. Eventually, as with so many other Californian mining operations, the company went bust and work stopped. 

You can visit the remains of the refinery and the 20-mule wagon, and try to imagine what it was like to work in one of the hottest places on earth. This is also a great spot for photographers, especially at night, when you can take pictures of the historic structures against the incredible night sky.

Stand at the lowest point in North America

Ahead, the bright white plain stretches to the distant mountains. Turn around, and you’ll see signs far above on the rocks marking sea level. This is Badwater Basin, the lowest spot in North America at 282 ft below sea level.

At first glance, you could be on the surface of the moon, without a single flower or shrub in sight. The vast, 200-square-mile expanse is beautiful, but unlike any other landscape I’ve ever seen. 

Look a little closer, and you’ll see signs of life, despite the harsh conditions. Salt-tolerant pickleweed plants dot the rim, and the spring-fed pool by the boardwalk is home to a unique snail that thrives in the salty water.

Badwater Basin was formed from an ancient lake that dried out, leaving behind a salty lake bed. You can appreciate the spot from the boardwalk, or walk out toward the distant mountains along a track worn smooth by hikers. As you get further from the boardwalk, the polygon shape of the salt flats becomes clearer, and the sense of isolation intensifies. 

Watch the sunset from Dante’s View

Drive the winding road up to 5,500 feet for spectacular and windswept views of Badwater Basin, the Panamint Range, and the Devil’s Golf Course. Dante’s View is the best viewpoint in the park, and is worth saving for sunset. The drive to the top takes about 25 minutes along Dante’s View Road from Highway 190, so plan accordingly.

There is a platform at the parking lot with plenty of space to gaze at the 360-degree views or take the path at the north end to hike along the ridgeline. It’s rocky and I didn’t feel like it was a safe hike for small children, but if you’re confident in your hiking abilities this trail has some spectacular views.

If the vista looks familiar, it’s because this was another Star Wars location. This is where Obi-Wan paused with Luke before entering the town of Mos Eisly, with the famous line, “You will never find a more wretched hive of scum and villainy”.

See where “Top Gun” pilots trained at Father Crowley Canyon

Father Crowley Canyon, AKA Rainbow Canyon, AKA Star Wars Canyon, is a deep and narrow crevice four miles east of the Death Valley National Park sign on the west side of the park.

The canyon was once used for training runs by fighter pilots, using the long but narrow pass to test their skills. Close your eyes, and the fierce winds sound like the roar of ghostly jet engines bouncing off the jagged canyon walls. The noisy canyon is in sharp contrast to the peaceful desert surrounding this spot. 

The military no longer uses this canyon for training since an accident in 2019, but it’s still a beautiful spot to pause and appreciate both the natural beauty and the skilled pilots who flew here.

Clamber through canyons

Death Valley appears to be an unforgiving and harsh environment, but you can also find shady canyons to explore. My favorite trail is through Golden Canyon, named for the sand-hued rocks in this spot. 

The road to the parking lot is unpaved but drivable by any type of car, as long as you take it slow. At the lot, you’ll find bathrooms and a beautiful view over the flats, before picking up the trail into the canyon. This is a great place to let the kids roam, with enticing caves, secret trails, and rocks to climb. 

The trails continue for miles – depending on the temperature and your family’s stamina, you can walk an almost eight-mile loop through the canyon to Zabriskie Point and back through Gower Gulch, or simply go as far as you feel comfortable, then turn around.

We walked almost all the way to Red Cathedral, a red rock wall towering hundreds of feet above the canyon. At this point, it was getting warm and we were low on water, so it was a good time to return.

Mosaic Canyon, named for the colorful fragments of rock encased in natural cement found here, is another great hike for kids. Take the unpaved road from Stovepipe Wells for two miles to the parking lot, then head into the canyon.

The walls of this narrow canyon have been sculpted into beautiful rounded shapes by water and wind. It’s fairly easy going for just over a mile before you run into boulders blocking the route.

 It’s a good point to turn around if you’re hiking with small children. Bigger kids looking for a rock scramble should look for a gap on the left-hand side, where you can find a way through and continue along the trail until the next obstacle.

Take an off-road trip to Racetrack Playa

One of the wonders of Death Valley is the mysterious moving rocks of Racetrack Playa. This is one of the coolest things to see in Death Valley – but it’s a long trip along an unpaved road. 

The rocks, named the sailing stones, appear to be steadily journeying to some unknown destination, judging by the clear tracks made in the sand. The strange phenomenon adds to the magic of this place, and it’s something I am keen to see for myself.

However, the location is deep in the desert, 72 miles from the nearest highway at Stovepipe Wells. The trek keeps the numbers down, but a six-hour round trip down a rocky road into the wilderness is not something I was willing to attempt with two kids who find it difficult to sit still for ten minutes.

However, if you have the time, a high-clearance vehicle with off-road tires (plus a couple to spare), and the will, this would be an unforgettable adventure. Break up the drive by camping overnight at Homestake Dry Camp, which is located a couple of miles from the Playa. 

Visit a castle in the desert

Death Valley Ranch, better known as “Scotty’s Castle” is the opulent vacation home of Chicago mining magnate Albert Mussey Johnson. After his death, the ranch was acquired by the National Park Service and you can learn about the mansion and its history on a tour.

If you’re wondering why a wealthy mining investor from Chicago wound up building a ranch in the middle of the desert, which isn’t even named after him, that’s a story of a conman, California gold, and an unlikely friendship. 

Walter “Scotty” Scott was a miner, rodeo rider, and chancer who persuaded investors, including Johnson, to pour money into his Death Valley gold mine. When no gold turned up, most of the financers concluded Scotty was a con artist, and wrote off their investments. 

However, Johnson decided to visit Death Valley to see for himself. Scotty, well aware there was no gold mine to show his backer, took Johnson for a ride – literally – hoping the tough desert conditions would quickly send him back to the city.

Johnson did not find treasure in Death Valley, but he did discover the dry desert air and outdoor life dramatically improved his health. He also enjoyed Scotty’s company so much that the two became lifelong friends, and Scotty stayed so often at the ranch it became locally known as Scotty’s Castle.

Unfortunately, a massive flood in 2015 damaged the building. Although much of the rebuild has been completed, it’s not completely open to the public. Limited tours are available, where you can walk the grounds and take a look at the ongoing flood recovery efforts.

Spot pupfish at Salt Creek

Some parts of Death Valley are so arid, it’s hard to imagine anything living in the vast wilderness. However, there are spots where waters flow and life thrives. Salt Creek, named for the salty water that flows after winter rains, is one such place. 

A short drive from the visitor center, the creek has a boardwalk running alongside it so visitors can see the birds, fish, and insects that call this spot home. 

Peer into the creek and you’ll spot Salt Creek pupfish, a species unique to Death Valley that has adapted to the saline waters. They’re called pupfish because of their lively, puppy-like behavior during spawning. At half a mile long and with plenty to see, this walk is ideal for families.

However, like Scotty’s Castle, the boardwalk was destroyed during flooding in 2022. The National Park Service hopes to have the area repaired in time for fall 2023, but check back with the website before visiting.

Take the scenic drive to Artist’s Palette

Tucked behind the yellow hills along Badwater Roads lies a geological rainbow splashed spectacularly across the landscape. Artists Palette is a spot-on description of these red, orange, blue, pink, and green hills. The colors are created by volcanic deposits rich in iron oxides and chlorites.

To view this technicolor display, take the Artists Drive Loop, a one-way scenic route through the mountains. It’s beautiful any time of day, but the colors really pop in the golden hour before sunset or after sunrise.

There are no trails along the route, but you’ll find pullouts to park and a small lot at Artists Palette, the lookout with the best views.

See an oasis in the desert

Darwin Falls is an oasis in the Mojave desert, the only year-round waterfall in Death Valley. Surrounding the spring-fed falls is lush vegetation, frogs and trees. This is also the best place to see bighorn sheep, the wild and difficult-to-spot native sheep that live in Death Valley, as they come to drink from the pool.

Tempting though it is, do not bathe in the water, as it is used as drinking water for the nearby Panamint Springs Resort.

Where to stay in Death Valley

Death Valley has a range of accommodation options, from luxury digs to backcountry camping.

Death Valley hotels

Oasis at Death Valley

There are three hotels in Death Valley: two at Furnace Creek and one at Stovepipe Wells.

The recently remodeled Ranch at Death Valley and The Inn at Death Valley is a historic resort surrounded by lush palms, a short drive from the Furnace Creek Visitor Center. 

These hotels’ central location to many of the park’s attractions make it a good place to stay, but the naturally-heated pool, kid’s playground, and comfortable rooms make it very attractive to families.

The Ranch features newly restored one-bed cottages with separate living rooms are perfect for families with young kids, who want to sleep in the same room but not go to bed at 7 p.m.

The Inn at Death Valley is located in the same area, but is the more luxe (and more expensive) of the two.

Stovepipe Wells Village Hotel

At Stovepipe Wells, near Mesquite Sand Dunes, you’ll find Stovepipe Wells Village Hotel. The cheerful motel-style accommodations are perfect for families, and there is an on-site Western saloon-style restaurant plus a swimming pool.

This hotel is convenient for visiting Mesquite Flats and Mosaic Canyon.

Death Valley camping

There are plenty of places to camp in Death Valley, but most are closed during the summer months when the temperatures become unbearable. If you’re visiting Death Valley with kids during the summer, I would recommend staying somewhere with air conditioning and a pool as it’s too hot to hike after 10 a.m. Also, night temperatures can be 100 degrees. Not fun for sleeping.

Within Death Valley, there are developed national park campsites, primitive campsites, private campsites, and backcountry camping, so there are plenty of spots to pitch a tent. If you go during winter, fall, or spring, take warm blankets because it gets cold at night.

We stayed at Panamint Springs Resort, a private campground located ten miles within the park from the western entrance. It’s a beautiful site, with views of the mountains all around. There’s a gas station/store, plus a great restaurant with a wrap-around porch. Showers are available and are included in the fee.

The only problem with staying at Panamint Springs Resort is the location, an hour’s drive from Furnace Creek Visitor Center and most of the park’s attractions. However, it’s not as busy as the campsites near the visitor center, and you do get more of a wilderness vibe, which I appreciated.

Of the developed NPS campgrounds, Furnace Creek Campground and Texas Springs Campground are the most popular. These two areas are both close to the visitor center, have picnic tables and fire grates, drinking water, and trash services. Full hookups are available for RVs at Furnace Creek.

They both fill up quickly on weekends and holidays. If you want to stay at Furnace Creek, book ahead using Recreation.com. Texas Springs is first come, first served, as are the rest of the NPS campsites.

If you arrive and these sites are full, don’t panic – Sunset Campground is in the same area and always has spots. However, you won’t get a picnic table or fire grate.

Another great option is Fiddler’s Campground, on the grounds of The Ranch at Death Valley. This campsite includes access to a swimming pool, WiFi, shower facilities, sports courts and it’s close to the resort’s restaurants.

Primitive campgrounds, like the one near Racetrack Playa, are also available but are in remote parts of the park. There are usually no facilities, so you would need to pack in and out.

Planning a trip to Death Valley National Park: one, two, and three-day itineraries

Here are some ideas for itineraries, depending on how much time you have in the park. Don’t worry if you can’t pack everything in, I always think it’s better to really enjoy one thing than attempt one hundred and exhaust yourself trying.

One day in Death Valley

Death Valley is just over a two-hour drive from Las Vegas, so it’s possible to visit as a day trip. If you’re short on time, I would suggest heading straight to Furnace Creek Visitor Center for some information on the park – there’s a good museum in there.

Next, head back south along Highway 190 and turn onto Badwater Road. Check out Badwater Basin, then go back via Artists Pallette, then stop for a hike at Golden Canyon. If you have enough time, check out Harmony Borax Works.

Go back east on Highway 190, but catch the sunset at Dante’s View before leaving the park. 

Two days in Death Valley

Spend one day visiting the sights above, near Furnace Creek. On day two, head west on Highway 190 to Stovepipe Wells, stopping at Salt Creek to do the interpretative trail, then go have fun on the sand dunes at Mesquite Flats. Enjoy a hike through Mosaic Canyon, then continue onto Panamint Springs Resort, where you can check out Darwin Falls.

Before heading back to Furnace Creek, make a stop at Father Crowley Canyon. You’re also close to the Death Valley National Park sign here, which is always good for a group selfie.

Three days in Death Valley

You can achieve everything from the one and two-day itineraries, plus check out the northern area of the park. From Furnace Creek, drive north on Highway 190 for about an hour to see Scotty’s Castle, then drive on to hike around Ubehebe Crater, located about eight miles west of the castle.

Ubehebe Crater is a half-mile wide, over 500 feet deep bowl created by an explosion 2,100 years ago, when molten lava met groundwater. It’s a 1.5-mile moderate hike around the rim, although beware there are no guardrails between the trail and the edge.

Alternatively, visit Racetrack Playa to see the mysterious sailing stones. If you don’t have a suitable car (off-road tires and high clearance are highly recommended) rent a jeep from Farabee’s in Furnace Creek, which will have everything you need for a backcountry driving adventure.

When to visit Death Valley National Park

Death Valley is one of the hottest places on earth. It’s best avoided entirely during the summer, between May and September, when temperatures range between 100 and 120 degrees. If you do visit during this period, you will need to finish all outdoor activities by 10 a.m. and spend the rest of the day chilling by the pool.

Springtime, in February or March, sees colorful wildflowers flourishing across the valley. If conditions are just right, Death Valley experiences a super bloom, when the desert explodes with life. 

Winter and late fall are also great times, with comfortable temperatures between 65 and 75 degrees. Bear in mind that by April, average highs are already at 90 degrees, and don’t dip below that mark again until November. 

If you’re camping in Death Valley with kids, bring extra layers for the evening, when the warmth of the day quickly fades away.

Tips for visiting Death Valley National Park

• Don’t underestimate how much water you will need. Not only is Death Valley one of the hottest places on earth, it’s also one of the driest. Keep your bottles cool in the car and hike with a hydration backpack for on-the-go sipping. Kids can carry their own with a Camelback Mini, which features an emergency whistle, essential gear for hiking with kids.
• Drive slowly on unpaved roads. Death Valley was formed by volcanic activity, which means hard, sharp rocks are scattered across the park. Stay on the track, go slow and carry a spare if you can. It’s advised not to drive on unpaved roads at all in the summer, due to how fast you can get into trouble in the extreme heat.
• Get the kids a compass and a whistle. It’s good to learn basic hiking safety early, like being aware of which direction you’re going, and what to do if you get lost. Plus, kids love a little responsibility – if you put them in charge of navigation, you might find they are willing to walk a little further.
• Take a guide to the night sky with you, as the dark skies of Death Valley are spectacular. This National Geographic guide will help you identify planets and constellations, ideal for families.
• You’ll need a vehicle pass to visit Death Valley National Park. You can buy a seven-day pass at the Stovepipe Wells store or the Furnace Creek Visitor Center for $30, or buy the America the Beautiful annual pass for $80 from REI.

Related reading:

Redwood National Park Itinerary: With Kids

Ultimate Guide To Yosemite With Toddlers

9 Amazing Things To Do On Santa Cruz Island

The post 15 Incredible Things to do in Death Valley with Kids appeared first on Tiny Trailblazers.

I’ve given plenty of kids camping gifts over the years, from stocking stuffers to big presents. They’re always a hit and get a lot of use. From camping gear to fun outdoorsy toys, here are my gift ideas for the adventurer kid. 

Camping Gear For Kids

Binoculars

Spot birds, squirrels and other wildlife up close, or use them at night to see the moon, binoculars are a fun way to get kids interested in nature. This set is sturdy and kid-sized, perfect for their first pair.

Mini Microscope

Kids love finding interesting bugs on hikes or at the campsite and this pocket microscope lets them see critters up close. 

Bug Catcher and Viewer

This bug catcher is perfect for bug-hunters and would be ideal for backyard adventures or on a trip.

Compass

If you are a family who regularly likes to hike, you’ll know how important trail safety is. Get kids interested in responsible trekking at an early age with this compass and take it on a trial run to a nearby park. For an extra challenge, look up your local orienteering club for a map and try a course.

Keep your kids safe with an emergency hiking whistle, so they can call for help if they accidentally stray from the trail.

Emergency whistle

LED Light Beanie

One of my kids’ favorite activities when camping is taking a night walk, when everything is just a little bit spooky and they get to use a flashlight.

These beanies with attached LED flashlights are the perfect gift for an outdoorsy child, keeping their heads toasty and their hands free. Best of all, the lights are easily recharged, no need for batteries.

Sleeping Bag for Kids

This REI sleeping bag is rated down to 25F and can be cinched at the bottom for smaller legs, leaving plenty of room for growth while keeping them warm at night.

Toddler’s Sleeping Bag

For 18-36 months old toddlers, you need a blanket that will keep them sunup without covering up their face as they move around at night. This quilted Baby DeeDee sleep nest is designed for outdoors, keeping your baby warm and safe all night. It’s also good as outerwear in a stroller during the winter.

Deuter Child Carrier

Whenever I pass a parent with a toddler on a trail miles from the nearest parking lot, they are always using this Deuter carrier. If you are into hiking and you don’t want to wait until your kid is old enough to walk some serious miles, this will keep you trekking comfortably.

Backpack

The Osprey Daylite is the ultimate day pack and now your kids can carry their own water with this smaller, kid’s version of the classic. 

Smart Wool Toddler Socks

Socks are a classic Christmas gift, so make them warm and durable with Smart Wool.

Warm Toddler Snow Boots

Keep their tootsies warm all winter in these adorable Merrell kicks. When looking for toddler shoes, make sure the toe box is generous and the sole flexible. These fit the bill and actually look good too.

Rain Jacket

Another good hiking safety tip: have your kids wear bright jackets. Red and yellow are the most attention-grabbing colors. A good waterproof will keep out wind and rain, add a warm base layer if it’s chilly out.

Games For Toddlers

Sticks and stones make great playthings but these fun, portable games are guaranteed to keep kids entertained outdoors.

gofindit Scavenger Hunt

A scavenger hunt is a fun way to get kids to explore nature. This one is ideal for young kids as well as bigger siblings. Set a timer to make it more of a challenge.

WaterWow

Fill the included brush with water and watch the illustrations come to life. It’s very satisfying, makes no mess and is easy for small hands to grip. Once dry, WaterWow pictures go back to black and white and you can start again. 

Crayola Coloring Books and Crayons

Classic coloring books and chunky crayons for the win.

Dump Truck

A campsite is basically a giant sandbox, so take a sturdy plastic truck like this one from Green Toys. All toys from this brand are made from recycled plastic and can be used in water, sand, dirt, left in the sun, dropped, whatever. They are impressively durable. 

Camping Toy Set

This cute camping toy set, complete with fire and s’mores, is perfect for toddlers who want to go on a make-believe camping adventure. It’s recommended for 18 months and up.

Camping Toys For 4-5 Year-Olds

Hoyle 6-in-1 Fun Pack

The great thing about this 6-in-one pack is the age range they are suited to. Snap Jack and Memory are the easiest to play, while Old Maid and Crazy 8 are better for older kids.

Blue Orange Games Mindo Unicorn Brainteaser

Kids can play this clever little puzzle game themselves. It has several levels of difficulty, so it will still be challenging next year.

Stomp Rocket

Stomp Rockets are such a fun outdoor toy. Just be careful not to use it under trees (you can buy extra rockets when you inevitably lose them).

Camping Toys For 8 Year-Olds

UNO

My seven-year-old is obsessed with this game. He is also annoyingly good at it. If anyone has any tips on beating a seven-year-old at UNO, message me.

Toss and Catch

Easier than regular catch, this is a fun campsite or beach game.

Paint by Stickers

Combining paint-by-numbers and stickers, these innovative activity books are ideal for some quiet time.

Ice cream maker

Want to eat ice cream while camping? Combine ice and rock salt, plus some ingredients, then let the kids roll the ball around for a while. Crack the whole thing open and dig in!

VTech Kiddizoom Action Cam

If your kid has asked for a Go Pro but you’re not sure kindergarten is the right time for a several hundred dollar piece of kit, this VTech camera fills the gap nicely.

We’ve got one and it’s small, easy to use and sturdy. It’s been underwater, captured on-the-go footage of bike rides and taken snaps of us all out and about. You will need a memory card but everything else is included in the kit.

A camera is a good camping toy for an eight-year-old, as you can encourage them to take pictures of treasures they find along the way, rather than take anything home.

Alternatively, this creator cam comes with a tripod, so your little creator can film themselves on adventures.

Kiddizoom Creator Cam

Books

National Geographic Junior Ranger Book

If you’re planning a National Parks road trip, this is a good way to get your kids excited, with facts, photos and activities for every US National Park.

Pete the Cat Goes Camping

If you have a little Pete the Cat fan, this is a good book to read to prepare them for their first camping trip.

The Camping Trip

This is a great kid’s guide to camping. It’s all about trying new things, and how much fun you can have with your family outdoors.

Where’s Rodney?

This book is for every kid who can’t sit still, and would always rather be outside than inside. It’s a celebration of nature, and the feeling of freedom it brings.

Evelyn the Adventurous Entomologist

A true story of a daring scientist who chased her dreams and changed the world, despite the restrictions placed on women in the early 20th century. It will appeal to all bug fans, adventurous kids, and anyone who hates to be told “no”.

Toddler outdoor activity book

Need some inspiration? This book has tons of ideas for outdoor play, which will come in handy on hikes, camping or just at the local park.

The post 34 Kids Camping Gifts For The Outdoorsy Child appeared first on Tiny Trailblazers.

From frolicking in the Sierra snow to celebrating the SoCal sun, take advantage of the time off and plan your Thanksgiving getaway in California. Go ice skating in Yosemite, dress up for Holiday Tea in San Francisco or see a zoo lit up with a million lights in Palm Springs.

Thanksgiving falls on Thursday November 25, and California also recognizes the following day as a holiday. Happy Holidays!

Yosemite

After seeing record crowds this summer, Yosemite has dropped its reservation requirement and is back to business as usual. The national park has already seen some snow this year, and thanks to a huge storm in October, the famous waterfalls are roaring back to life.

Temperatures are between 32 and 57°F and will get cooler as the elevation increases. Some of the roads will be closed, including Tioga Road and Glacier Point Road.

Depending on the weather, higher elevation trails such as Tuolumne Meadows may also be closed. On the plus side, it’s a great time of year to explore Mariposa Grove to see sequoias in the snow, and there are fewer crowds than in the summer months.

The ice skating rink at Curry Village opens this year on November 12. This open-air ice rink under the towering Half Dome has been operating since 1928, and families can warm up afterward with a hot chocolate by a fire pit.

Camping grounds are still open during the winter at Upper Pines and Camp 4 in Yosemite Valley. Alternatively, cozy up at family-friendly Yosemite Valley Lodge, which is located in Yosemite Valley.

Another popular place to stay is Tenaya Lodge, which is just outside of Yosemite but offers lots of fun family activities, including an indoor pool. 

If you are going as a larger group, Wawona is inside the park and only 30 minutes from Yosemite Valley. We stayed at the Pine Arbor Retreat, which can accommodate up to ten people. It had a big dining table, plenty of seating and huge windows to view the incredible surrounding landscape. This would be a great option if you’re planning to cook your own Thanksgiving dinner.

Tahoe

The ski season starts in Tahoe around Thanksgiving, with Heavenly planning to open on November 19. The major resorts of Heavenly, Squaw (recently renamed to Palisades) Alpine and North Star all have snow-making machines. South Lake Tahoe has already seen some snow this year, a welcome relief after the wildfires that threatened the area this summer.

Temperatures are similar to Yosemite at this time of year, somewhere between 31 and 52°F on average. It’s a great time of year to hit the trails without the crowds, or rent bicycles and cycle around the lake.

You can also take a kayak out, as Waterman’s Landing at Carnelian Bay offers year-round rentals. Prefer not to paddle? Go for a cruise on the MS Dixie, which is pretty much the best way to experience the lake (especially the sunset cruise).

For a winter adventure, Truckee Ice Rink plans to open on November 20 this year.

I love to stay in Tahoe City, where there are plenty of cabins to rent on VRBO, and has a laid-back, small town feel. The Granlibakken or Sunnyside Lodge (the restaurant here is a local favourite) are my recommendations.

However, the big resorts in South Lake Tahoe and North Lake offer ski-lodge luxury if you like being closer to the action. Check out the Marriott Grand Residence in South Lake Tahoe, or the Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe at Incline Village.

San Francisco

After a long lockdown, San Francisco is open again – but you will need a mask and show proof of vaccination for indoor activities. San Francisco is famously a foodie city, so it’s the perfect destination for a Thanksgiving feast. Temperatures are mild at this time of year, between 51 and 64°F.

This year, families have the choice of staying in or dining out. Presidio Social Club offers a turkey feast with all the trimmings, ready to eat, for pick-up on Thanksgiving. 

The Fairmont is hosting a Thanksgiving buffet at Laurel Court and from November 26, a special Holiday Tea. On November 27, the famous two-storey Victorian gingerbread house will be unveiled in the lobby, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Or head over to local’s favorite Tommy’s Joynt for a delicious turkey dinner, no reservations required.

On November 29, head over to Union Square at 6 p.m. for the annual tree lighting ceremony. You can also skate at the open-air ice rink, which is open again this year, from November 3.

For accommodation, recently-refurbished Hotel Nikko in Union Square has a pool, private parking and is centrally located. Or head to the Intercontinental Mark Hopkins, which is full of San Franciscan charm and has Top of the Mark, a bar with the best views of the city.

If you prefer to stay like a local, VRBO has listings across the city. 

Santa Cruz

See California’s redwoods and spend time at the beach in Santa Cruz, the charming seaside city located one hour and thirty minutes south from San Francisco. November weather is between 44 and 65°F, which is good for hikes in the mountains.

Santa Cruz has some unique family adventures. Roaring Camp Railroads, an authentic steam train that takes passengers deep into the redwoods, is one of the oldest operating steam trains in the country. Take a trip to the summit of Bear Mountain, or a three-hour trip to the Santa Cruz boardwalk.

Another quirky Santa Cruz attraction is the Mystery Spot, where gravity doesn’t work quite as expected. Or take a hike out to Pogonip, where you can unexpectedly find a goldfish pond among the roots of a redwood on the Lime Kiln trail.

Stay at Dream Inn, an airy beachfront hotel with a pool, located right next to the boardwalk. 

Ventura

For a sunny seaside Thanksgiving, head to the central coastal city of Ventura. Get into the holiday spirit with some downtown shopping, play on the beach or spot humpback whales on a wildlife cruise – there is plenty to do here in November.

The weather is typically mild in November and although it may rain, temperatures are between 51 and 69°F, so warm enough to enjoy a bike ride or beach day.

If you’re looking for a relaxing Thanksgiving meal, the Four Points Sheraton in Ventura Harbor offers dinner at its restaurant. This is also a good-value accommodation option for Ventura, close to the Harbor Village.

Ventura is a good base to explore the central coast region. Santa Barbara is a 30-minute drive north, and the Santa Monica Pier is one hour 30 minutes along the coast to the south. Over Thanksgiving, the giant Ferris wheel will be lit up with an 80-foot turkey!

Aside from the Sheraton, the Ventura Beach Marriott is a good hotel for families. It is located near the pier, is within walking distance to the downtown and has incredible views. If you prefer to stay in an apartment, we stayed here and found it clean and kid-friendly.

Disneyland

What better way to celebrate the holidays than at the happiest place on earth? Disneyland dials up the magic during this time and the cooler weather is a bonus, if you ask me. Temperatures are typically between 52 and 74°F in November.

Of course, it’s going to be crowded, but the park is still limiting numbers due to the pandemic, so it won’t be as busy as usual this year. You will need to make reservations in advance, however, to make sure you don’t miss out.

The busiest days will be the days immediately after Thanksgiving, on the 26 and 27 November, so you might have a quieter experience on the day itself or earlier in the week.

Masks are required by everybody over the age of two indoors but it’s optional outdoors.

Before you buy tickets, check reservations are available on your preferred date here. 

You can get discounted Disneyland tickets from Undercover Tourist, but don’t delay – a price increase is coming soon.

I like the Howard Johnson Wyndham Anaheim for Disney stays. It’s cheap, cheerful, and most importantly, a ten-minute walk to the gates. 

Joshua Tree

Thanksgiving week is the perfect time to visit this iconic national park, when the temperatures fall to between 41 and 70°F. If you don’t mind cold-weather camping, stay in one of the park’s 500 sites, most of which can be reserved in advance at Recreation.gov.

During the day, scramble over rocks on the kid-friendly trails to Hidden Valley and Barker Dam. Explore early ranching history on a tour around Keys Ranch. Look out for wildlife, including big-horned sheep, desert spiny lizards and maybe a desert tortoise.

At night, cozy up under a blanket and enjoy the stars. Joshua Tree Park has some of the darkest skies in California, and in winter you will be able to see the constellations of Orion, Sirius, Gemini and Taurus. If you’re lucky, you will catch a shooting star or two as the Leonids meteor shower peaks from mid-November.

If you don’t want to camp, stay in nearby Twentynine Palms, Joshua Tree or Palm Springs. For a whole Western vibe, check out Pioneertown Motel. About 25 minutes from the park’s entrance, this motel’s rustic exterior hides a chic interior. 

Or stay just four miles from the entrance at Twentynine Palms Fairfield Inn and Suites, which has an outdoor pool.

Palm Springs

The weather in Palm Springs in November is pretty perfect, between 52 and 79°F on average. If you’re craving some sunshine and pool time over Thanksgiving, Palm Springs doesn’t disappoint.

For a five-course Thanksgiving Feast, book a table at Grand Central. The bistro is offering a prix fixe menu, at $69 for adults and $35 for kids under the age of ten. Not a fan of turkey? Copley’s on Palm Canyon has a Thanksgiving menu that includes Scottish salmon and steak options along with the traditional roast.

See a million lights sparkle along to festive music at the Living Desert Zoo for Wildlights, the zoo’s annual holiday tradition. The light show starts on November 24 this year for the public and continues on the 26, 27 and into December.

As a treat, book a resort with its own waterpark. Omni Rancho Las Palmas has multiple water slides, pools, splash pads and, best of all, a lazy river. Or the Hyatt Regency Indian Wells Resort and Spa, which has just opened a water park featuring dueling water slides, a lazy river, outdoor pool and splash pad.

San Diego

With its zoo, beaches and nearby Legoland, San Diego is perhaps the best family vacation destination in California. In November, the temperatures vary between 54 and 70°F, ideal for enjoying all the outdoor activities in this laid-back city.

The famous San Diego Zoo no longer requires reservations to visit, although masks are required for unvaccinated guests in indoor areas. It’s open on Thanksgiving and you can even have your dinner there, at Treetops restaurant.

On November 21, East County, San Diego, kicks off the holiday season with the 75th Annual Mother Goose Parade, featuring bands, floats, horses, and Santa.

Legoland is 30 minutes north of San Diego and the holiday season starts November 20. Check out the 30-foot Lego tree and life-size lego Santa!

For accommodation, the historic Hotel Del Coronado offers charm and luxury. It’s a Hilton property, so can be booked with points if you are a regular traveler. It’s set right on a beautiful beach and you can book your Thanksgiving dinner here too.

If you are traveling as a group, a rental home can accommodate everyone together. An oceanfront condo can cost as little as $300 a night.

Where are you headed this Thanksgiving? Are you seeking snow and cozy cabins or seeking the sunshine? Let me know in the comments!

The post 9 Thanksgiving Getaways in California appeared first on Tiny Trailblazers.

Explore a canyon straight out of Jurassic Park, paddle in a crystal-clear river or hug the world’s tallest trees – Redwood National Park is an unforgettable experience. There are so many ways to enjoy these parks, even if your little adventurers can only manage a mile or two of hiking. Here’s your Redwood National Park itinerary to help you plan an epic family trip to the majestic Californian Redwoods.

Redwood National And State Parks Facts

• Redwood National and State Parks, to give its full name, is made up of Redwood National Park plus Del Norte Coast, Jedediah Smith and Prairie Creek State Parks.
• Hyperion, the world’s tallest tree, resides in the park but its location is a secret.
• Scenes for The Lost World: Jurassic Park were filmed in Prairie Creek State Park.
• Almost half (45%) of all old-growth redwood forest can be found here.
• The United Nations made this National Park a World Heritage Site in 1980.
• For more facts about redwoods – and a great story about the team who made the scientific breakthroughs – read The Wild Trees.

Where To Stay At Redwood National And State Parks

If you want to stay in the Parks themselves, your only option is camping or a cabin. Camping is a great way to immerse yourself in nature and National Park campgrounds are kept to a high standard – but they also get booked up quickly. I would recommend making a reservation six months ahead, when the spots open up for your dates. 

For a taste of traditional hospitality, stay in Eureka at Hydrangea Inn, which offers families comfortable two-bedroom apartments and includes a delicious breakfast.

There are also plenty of cottages to rent in the area, such as this three-bedroom home in nearby Orick, or wake up in the forest at this two-bed cabin.

At the northern end of the Parks, stay at the cozy Hiouchi Motel, located just off the 101 in Crescent City, a few minutes from the Hiouchi Visitor Center. 

What Will I Need To Take?

Bring good shoes, a baby or toddler carrier if your kids are little, water bottles and a picnic (no food sold in the park). I have a packing list if you are looking for recommendations on what to take.

Redwood National Park Itinerary: One Day

Plan to bring all your food with you: Redwood National and State Parks has no restaurants within the park boundaries. The visitor centers have restrooms and drinking water. This itinerary starts from Orick, at the south end of the parks. Flip the itinerary if you are approaching from the north!

Morning: Tidepools And Fern Canyon

Fern Canyon is a not-to-be-missed spot in Prairie Creek State Park, which featured in the Jurassic Park sequel. This requires driving on an unpaved road, so don’t attempt it with an RV.

To get there, take the 101 for 2.5 miles north of Orick to find Davison Road. This seven-mile, mostly unpaved, road meanders toward the Pacific Ocean, terminating at Gold Bluff’s Beach. 

At the beach, there are tidepools like mini aquariums, dolphins off shore and peregrines soaring above.

Find the Fern Canyon parking lot and head up the creek to discover a magical canyon lined with ferns. It’s easy to imagine a dinosaur crashing out of the jungle to liven up your stroll.

During the peak summer season, you will be sharing this popular walk with other hikers. However, steam crossings render the trail impractical during the winter. At the end of the canyon, take the steps back up to the car park.

Soak up the sunshine at the beach before turning back to the cool of the redwoods. Continue north on the 101 until you reach the Prairie Creek State Park visitor center.

Lunch: Picnic With Elks

After checking out the visitor center to pick up a Junior Ranger program, head to Elk Prairie Meadow where you will find picnic tables under the redwoods. The lush meadow hosts a herd of beautiful Roosevelt elk, which you can admire while enjoying your lunch.

Elk are California’s largest land mammal, weighing up to 1,100 pounds. They seem pretty docile but don’t get too close! During the mating season, from August to October, the peace is disrupted by bulls calling loud challenges to each other.

Afternoon: Kid-Friendly Forest Hike

Prairie Creek State Park has some great trails for kids.

For a quick walk, ideal for toddlers, head to Prairie Creek State Park for the Big Tree Wayside trailhead. This wheelchair and stroller accessible trail is designed to showcase one of the area’s tallest trees: the Big Tree.

It’s only 100 meters from the parking lot to the Big Tree so this won’t take too long.

Once you have admired the Big Tree from the viewing platform, check out some of the other short nearby trails such as the Circle Trail, which will take around 15 minutes.

Kids will also love the Revelation Trail, which starts just behind the Prairie Creek State Park Visitor Center. The short, quarter-mile loop, encourages visitors to stop and listen to the sounds of the forest, breath in the scent of the bay laurel and feel the soft bark of a redwood.

For a longer hike, take a 3.2 mile loop through this beautiful area. Starting at Prairie Creek State Park headquarters, hike the Prairie Creek Trail north until you see an intersection. Take the right turn, towards the sound of traffic, and cross the parkway to join the Cathedral Trees trail. Head south, passing by Big Tree, before ending back at the visitor center.

This trail features bridges, babbling brooks, ancient forest and “tunnel trees” that you can walk through. It’s also wheelchair and stroller friendly, suited to all ages and abilities.

Next, go for a scenic drive north along Newton B. Drury Parkway. This 10-mile winding road takes you into the heart of the old-growth groves and has plenty of opportunities to stop for a walk. Avenue of the Giants might be more famous but this is an absolute gem of a drive.

The road is open every day throughout the summer. Between October to May on the first Saturday of the month, cyclists rule the road when the stretch is closed off to cars.

Two Days in Redwood National And State Parks

If you have one day, the best family-friendly hikes and activities are all in Prairie Creek State Park. However, if you have more time, head further north to Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park.

The Stout Memorial Grove Trail is a short, 300-meter stroll to a grove of some of the world’s tallest trees, soaring 300 feet into the sky. The majestic spot is a reward for getting there.

First, drive the narrow, unpaved Howland Hill. After parking at the trailhead, pick your way down to the Smith River, where you will find a footbridge open only in the summer season. Finally, follow the path into the forest where you will find the trees.

Take your time on this adventure. It’s unlikely you will get across the river without pausing to take a dip in the refreshing waters, or playing on the pebble beach.

For families with children aged 10 and up, ranger-led kayak tours are available on the Smith River in the summer. The tours last around three hours, go through Class I-II rapids and are guided by knowledgeable rangers who can point out wildlife.

Jedediah Smith State Park also hosts Native American dance demonstrations in July (although these have been on hold since 2019 due to COVID-19) showcasing the cultural traditions of the indigenous Tolowa. Check the Park’s event calendar if you are headed there in July.

How To Get To Redwood National And State Parks

Redwood National and State Parks are located in Humboldt and Del Norte counties in the far north of California, on the 101.

The closest airport is Eureka/Arcata (ACV), a regional airport serviced by United Airlines, American Airlines and Avelo. This gives you the option of flying from Denver CO, Phoenix AZ, San Francisco CA or Los Angeles CA, then renting a car for the 40-minute trip north up the 101. 

The best way to see the redwoods is as part of a road trip. It’s a six hour’s drive from San Francisco, CA, or similar from Portland, OR. There are plenty of great places to visit along the way, including Point Reyes, Mendocino and Lassen Volcanic National Park. Further north, Crater Lake National Park is a stunning spot in Oregon.

When To Visit Redwood National And State Parks

The best (although most crowded) time to visit is during the summer, where temperatures max out at around 80F. September is my favourite time of year to visit California’s northern coast, as the fog recedes slightly, making the trip marginally warmer. October is also beautiful but there is more chance of rain.

Unfortunately, fire season, which traditionally hits California in early October, extends throughout the summer. For the best chance of avoiding smoky skies, try May or June. 

Winter is beautiful but wet and will make many of the trails impassable. Temperatures fall to between 40-60F.

Are you planning a trip? Let me know in the comments!

The post Redwood National Park Itinerary: With Kids appeared first on Tiny Trailblazers.

Celebrate the spooky season with these not-too-scary events taking place this October. Make the most of the dark evenings with a light show, find a fun daytime festival, or even watch a pumpkin plummet from the sky. Grab your kids, a costume, and have fun!

Goblin Jamboree: Bay Area Discovery Museum, Sausalito 

Take a ferry over to Sausalito’s Bay Area Discovery Museum for Goblin Jamboree, a week of Halloween-themed fun activities for kids under 10. Kids will love running around the hay maze, painting skeletons, and playing in the cauldron kitchen.

Goblin Jamboree is Saturday, October 24 – October 26, closed Monday and Tuesday. Tickets are $25 for members and $30 for the general public. Bay Area Discovery Museum, 557 McReynolds Rd, Sausalito

Haunted Hangar: Hiller Aviation Museum, San Carlos

For a unique event, don’t miss the helicopter pumpkin drop on October 30 and 31 at Hiller Aviation Museum. The museum, which celebrates the history of aeronautics in the Bay Area, will be decorated for Halloween and kids can come in costume. 

Oct. 17, 12 p.m. – 5 p.m. through Nov. 1, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. (Pumpkin drop only Oct.25 and 26 at 12 p.m.)

Tickets are $24 for adults and $16 for kids 5-17. Under three-year-olds are free with an adult. Hiller Aviation Museum, 601 Skyway Rd, San Carlos

Halloween Hoopla: Yerba Buena Gardens, San Francisco

This fun street festival just for kids ten and under features a performance by Circus Bella and a costume parade. There are also crafts to make, a pumpkin patch, and palm reading – all for free! 

Halloween Hoopla, Nov. 1, 12 p.m. to 3 p.m., Children’s Garden, Yerba Buena Gardens, 799 Howard Street

Boo at the Zoo: Oakland Zoo, Oakland

Running on October 24 and 26, Oakland Zoo’s Boo at the Zoo is an animal-themed scavenger hunt with a goodie bag to win. Come in costume (not inflatable, they scare the animals!) to enter the costume contest. Advance tickets are required.

October 24-26 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., 9777 Golf Links Road, Oakland

Trick or Treat on the Row: Santana Row, San Jose

Pre-schoolers will love this free event featuring live music, face painting, trick or treating and spooky crafts at Santana Row. If your little one isn’t quite ready for night-time neighborhood trick or treating, this is the perfect morning alternative to celebrate Halloween.

Tuesday, October 28th, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., 377 Santana Row, San Jose 

The Jack-O-Lantern Trail: Winchester Mystery House

The Winchester Mystery House in San Jose is a real deal haunted house, which you can tour if you are brave enough. The former home of Sarah Winchester, tragedy-stricken heir to the rifle fortune, is an architectural oddity and worth a visit in its own right. However, it’s likely too scary for little ones, so take them to the beautiful illuminated Victorian gardens instead on the Jack-O-Lantern trail during evenings in October.

Tickets vary depending on time and day. Open throughout October. Winchester Mystery House, 525 S Winchester Blvd, San Jose

For more fall fun, check out our list of amazing kid-friendly wineries to visit in California!

The post Kid-Approved San Francisco Bay Area Halloween Events 2025 appeared first on Tiny Trailblazers.