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Our family of six loves to travel, but that means traveling on a budget and that often requires packing light. We have been known to fly budget airlines with limited luggage to stretch the budget (and for flights under three hours - it's worth it). Follow these tips to pack light making it easier, less stressful, and even cheaper to vacation. Whether you’re heading on a weekend getaway or a big adventure, these practical tips will help you pack smarter while ensuring you have everything you need. 1. Choose the Right Bag Start with a lightweight, carry-on-size suitcase or backpack. Check the size limits with your airline and choose a bag that maximizes your space without adding unnecessary weight. Try to choose a bag with compartments or pockets to keep items organized without extra packing cubes. Read our guide to Top 10 Best Lightweight Travel Bags for recommendations. 2. Write a Packing List Make a list and check it twice. Include all must-have items and scratch unnecessary items. I've found that preparing a list in advance and evaluating the list as the trip approaches helps ensure it is concise and clear. Faithfully follow your list when packing, and resist adding "just-in-case" items. Keep your list on your phone to reference when packing for the return home to be sure nothing is left behind. Tip: Apps like PackPoint or Wanderlog help you plan what to pack based on your destination, activities, and weather, ensuring you pack only what you need. 3. Choose Versatile Clothing Pack classics in neutral colors that can be repurposed for multiple outfits. Add a few layering pieces for weather flexibility. If possible, avoid bulky items like heavy sweaters and opt for lighter layering jackets. Choose shoes that can dress up or down. Pack simple accessories to style outfits. Choose lightweight, wrinkle-resistant, quick-drying clothing as much as possible. Check the forecast for your destination before packing so you only bring what’s truly necessary. 4. Save Space Packing Clothes One technique to make the most of your suitcase is rolling clothes instead of folding them. This saves space and reduces wrinkles. Or, consider investing in packing cubes to organize by category. 5. Pack Laundry Sheets or Soap I love travel-size laundry detergent sheets ! The sheets are more affordable than purchasing laundry soap at your destination and it saves space in your luggage if you wash and re-wear clothes. Most hotels and vacation rentals have washers and dryers, or you can pack a sink stopper and wash clothes in hotel sinks or tubs. 6. Wear Your Bulkiest Items on the Plane We love visiting National Parks and that means hiking boots. We wear boots on the plane and pack lighter tennis shoes in our suitcases . The same goes for coats and heavier layers. This frees up luggage space. 7. Minimize Shoes Shoes are often the bulkiest items in your bag. Try to limit yourself to two pairs: one for walking and one for special activities. Add in flip-flops for the pool and you're all set. Pack shoes in shower caps or plastic bags to keep your clothes clean. Read our guide to the Best Shoes on Amazon for Women Who Travel – Airplanes, Hiking, Camping & Theme Parks . 8. Downsize Your Toiletries Use travel-size bottles or purchase pre-packaged travel-sized toiletries . If you can use hotel soaps and shampoos, leave yours behind. Consider solid alternatives like shampoo bars, toothpaste tablets, and deodorant sticks to avoid liquid limits. 9. Don't bring things your destination provides Most lodging choices provide hair dryers, irons, and basic toiletries. Check in advance to make sure you'll have what you need. If you’re staying at accommodations that don’t provide a hairdryer, choose a compact, foldable model designed for travel. 10. Skip “What-If” Items Avoid packing items "just in case." Think through the items you need and leave the rest behind. Remember, you can purchase emergency items at your destination if a situation arises. 11. Choose a Few Classic Accessories Try to choose classic, versatile jewelry and accessories that can be worn with multiple outfits. If possible, wear them rather than packing them. Avoid packing anything too valuable that may get lost. 12. Use Apps Avoid packing print materials, books, and maps. Download travel apps or digital guidebooks to your phone or tablet. 13. Use a Kindle or E-Reader Borrow books (even audiobooks) from your local library and use your Kindle app or e-reader to carry multiple books without adding weight or bulk. Read our guide to the Best Audiobooks for Family Road Trips: Age-by-Age Guide . 14. Bring Lightweight Electronics If you can, avoid bulky laptops and opt for a tablet or your smartphone for browsing and work tasks. Carry a lightweight power bank to ensure your devices remain charged while you're on the move. 15. Bring Foldable Reusable Bags Bring a reusable tote or foldable bag for souvenirs. 16. Pack a Reusable Water Bottle A collapsible or lightweight reusable water bottle is great for staying hydrated. Many airports have refill stations, so bring it empty through security and fill it up before boarding. 17. Invest in Multi-Use Travel Gadgets Search for items such as a universal travel adapter with USB ports or a multi-tool that includes a bottle opener, knife, and additional features. 18. Downsize Your First Aid Kit Rather than carrying a complete kit, include a few essentials such as adhesive bandages, pain relievers, and antiseptic wipes in a compact bag or pillbox. 19. Pack Compact Snacks Bring a few lightweight snacks like protein bars, candy, or trail mix. 20. Test Pack Before Your Trip Pack your bag and weigh it a few days ahead to ensure everything fits and that your bag isn’t too heavy. 21. Keep Essentials With You Pack valuables, medications, and a change of clothes in your carry-on or personal item in case your luggage is lost or delayed. Remember packing light doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort, it simply means being intentional and smart with your packing choices. Follow these tips and enjoy a stress-free, streamlined travel experience. Pin for Later: Our Favorite Road Trip Tips: The BEST Travel Games for Road Trips Best Audiobooks for Family Road Trips: Age-by-Age Guide 10 Must-Have Amazon Products to Keep Your Car Organized on a Road Trip Snackle Box: The Ultimate Road Trip Essential for Happy Traveling The Best Noise-Canceling Headphones for Kids when Traveling 20 Must-Read Books for Your Ultimate USA Travel Bucket List How to Create a USA Travel Vision Board for Nature Lovers 21 Tips for Packing Light on Your Next Trip 24 Best Travel Journals: Beautiful Options for Adventurers [Complete Guide]

We love game nights in our family. We play games regularly for family nights, fun with friends, and reunions. Our favorite games entertain and help us learn more about one another. We particularly enjoy funny games, lively party games, and cooperative games that encourage teamwork and collaboration. With that in mind, I’m excited to share this guide featuring our favorite games that are perfect for any family reunion or gathering. These are our family favorites for groups and gatherings. Brain Freeze Party Game Brain Freeze is one of our family's FAVORITE games! We play this often at parties. This fast-paced game is a great way to get to know one another better. Players take turns rapidly playing their cards looking for matching symbols on opponents' cards. When they find a match, they must be the first to answer the question on their card to claim the match. The player with the most matches wins. This rapid-fire game is tons of fun to play over and over again. Doodle Heist This fun game is a new twist on Pictionary. Teams compete as they race against one another to guess their team's doodles and score points. With endless combinations, this game is great for replay. Clues are crazy combinations of adjectives and nouns making for creative and funny answers. With the chance to steal from the other team and race, this fast-paced competition is fun for groups. Mini-Game Party This is the perfect reunion, party, or group game. Teams play the mini-games and award points for six rounds until someone is crowned winner. Each game offers new challenges that last under 3-minutes. With easy-to-learn challenges, fast gameplay, and simple rules, this is a great game for all ages. Sounds Fishy Game This funny game challenges the question-asker, is to eliminate all the lies (redfish and leave the truth to last (bluefish). The guesser must deduce which player is sharing the correct answers and who is bluffing to win. Easy to learn for 4-10 players, this laugh-out-loud game is a ton of fun. Chameleon In The Chameleon, everyone knows the secret word except for the chameleon. The goal is to deduce who is the chameleon before they figure out the secret word. The chameleon's goal is to lay low and not get caught. Great for 3-8 players, this easy-to-learn party game is fun for teens and adults. Get Closer by Intelligent Change Get Closer by Intelligent Change is fast, fun, and engaging. These conversation starters spark conversation in minutes. Choose the edition that fits your vibe. There are 3 Levels of Closeness: Choose how deep you want to go—Close, Closer, Closest. The close questions are icebreakers Closer questions may ask about personal feelings and views, and the closest questions ask the deepest questions. Or choose the Wildcards to add fun and spontaneity to keep the game interesting. This game is made with 100% recycled, biodegradable materials. 400 Funversation Cards This deck of 400 conversation starters for kids offers a great selection of playful questions, silly challenges, and interactive activities. Perfect for all ages, this is a great family reunion game. The deck encourages creativity, making every moment together feel special while offering a chance to learn unexpected things about each other. Telestrations Party Pack 12 Player Telestrations are available in sets for 6, 8, or 12 players. I bought the 12-player set for our family because I often organize or supervise group trips for our youth group, sports teams, or family. We also frequently host parties and gatherings. I appreciate that this easy-to-learn game is adaptable and can be played with 4-12 players repeatedly. To play, each participant starts with an erasable sketchbook, a dry-erase marker, and a word card. A die roll determines each player's secret word. The timer is set, and everyone draws their word. After 60 seconds, each person passes their book to the player on their left. Then, each player quickly guesses what they see, writes the answer in the book, and passes it to the next player. The timer is reset, and everyone draws the guess. This process continues until each sketchbook has been passed to every player and returns to its original owner, leading to The Big Reveal. Everyone shares their book, and the humorous miscommunications are unveiled. Much like the game of "telephone," the results are unpredictable, and the laughter is infectious. Scattergories Sometimes classic board games work in the car and Scattergories is one of our faves. While I generally prefer more compact travel games, Scattergories is a hit with my tweens and teens and it is easy to keep organized even in the car. Pro-tip: We use our phones as timers because the game timer's buzz is distracting for the driver. If you're unfamiliar, this beloved game is super simple: each player races to think of something that starts with the randomly selected letter for each item on the list of ten categories. Compare lists. Duplicate answers are disqualified. Double initial answers receive bonus points. This easy-to-learn game is perfect for groups. Guess in 10 Form teams or play individually, and ask as many as 10 questions to identify the Disney character on the Game Card! Is the character an animal? Does the character wear a blue gown? Be the first to collect 7 Game Cards to win! Sets are available for Disney, Space, Marvel, and Animal Planet. I should have known that! - A Trivia Game About Things You Oughta Know We play a lot of trivia games in our house. This particular set of questions is especially fun. Sample questions: Is starboard on the left or right side of a boat? How do you say “Japan” in Japanese? Is a penguin a bird? How long did Sleeping Beauty actually sleep? Liar Liar Liar Liar is an entertaining game focused on sharing and detecting the liar within the group. During each round, players disclose something about themselves using one of the prompts from the 200 topic cards. Depending on their assigned role, players either tell the truth or lie. Points are given when others incorrectly identify a truth as a lie or a lie as a truth. There's always a liar. Guinness Book of World Records 2025 Trivia Game This trivia game with 200 questions, tests knowledge of record-breaking facts from the Guinness World Records 2025 book. This easy-to-play game comes with 4 drdry-eraseoards, 4 markers, and a directions sheet for easy setup and play. This party game is perfect for trivia lovers. Catch Phrase Okay, so this one does require batteries, but it's loads of fun and takes skills and thinking, so we'll let the batteries slide. Players try to get their team to guess a word or phrase by giving clues before time's up. This self-contained game is great for trips! Who's Most Likely To...? 250 Prompt Cards to Determine Who in the Group Is Most Likely To. A Mostly Clean and Family-Friendly Version of the Original Best-Selling Game "Who's Most Likely To," Featuring Some of the Same Cards. This Game Can Get Intense. Get Ready to Call Out Your Friends and Family. The More Players, the Better (Ideally, 10+ People Would Be Great). Note: This family game set is described as "mostly clean." We have censored our box to include only fully kid-friendly questions. SUSSED The Wacky ‘What Would You Do?’ Card Game This enjoyable "getting to know you" game involves asking a question and challenging your family and friends to guess the answer you've picked! It includes 110 cards with more than 200 multiple-choice questions. Top 50 Family Games Scratch-Off Cards This deck of 50 Family Games includes favorites like Charades, Scavenger Hunts, Sardines, etc. as well as newer games. Scratch off a card and play the game assigned. This is a fun way to try new games, revisit old favorites, and alleviate the decision-making process. With fun bonding games and group games in the mix, this is perfect for a reunion or party. Uno Card Game Uno is a classic card game enjoyed by all ages. You'll find versions fitting favorite characters and themes, and games with a twist like All Wild. Family Feud We play the card game version of Family Feud often in our family. We split up into teams, assign one announcer, and play a set number of rounds. The teams are given a prompt and asked to come up with the most common answers to the prompt to win, just like the TV Game Show. Do you have a favorite family reunion game to add to the list? Please share in the comments below. Pin for Later: The post includes Amazon affiliate links, and if you choose to make a purchase, I might earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your support!

As a mom, I love to give the gift of experience. Over the years, we have surprised our children with Christmas gifts of upcoming Disney vacations, waterpark vacations, Great Wolf Lodge vacations, overnights at the zoo, tickets to their favorite concert, and more. If the gift is "in the future," we like to find creative ways to present the surprise and a gift to unwrap in anticipation of the vacation or event. How to give a trip as a gift for holidays In this blog post, I'll share 10 unique ways to present a trip as a gift that will make the gift even more memorable. This post includes Amazon affiliate links, and if you choose to make a purchase, I might earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support! Every product in this guide is one our family truly loves. 1. Create Custom T-Shirts Consider ordering personalized t-shirts from Amazon as a creative present for your family vacation. These affordable shirts can be tailored with a name, destination, and details. 2. Map It Out Maps add a touch of adventure, making this a fun way to reveal your travel gift. For kids, it's great to see where you're going and to start planning the trip. Many locations will send visitors guides and maps. You may be able to find a vintage or custom map of the destination and trace the route you will take, marking key attractions and experiences with colorful stickers. This small gesture can help children anticipate the fun ahead. You may also consider a map-themed souvenir. I LOVE Xplorer Maps' beautiful products and gifts, especially for our National Park trips. They sell beautiful soft blankets, tote bags, mugs, travel cups, and jigsaw puzzles with artistic maps featuring many destinations in the U.S., including National Parks, states, and cities. We have tote bags, blankets, and puzzles, and every beautiful product is of great quality. Yellowstone Map Blanket from Xplorer Maps If you're planning a Disney vacation, this luxurious Disney atlas is filled with stunning park maps spanning the globe and celebrating 60 years of Disney park magic. Maps of the Disney Parks go beyond mere navigation tools for guests seeking attractions like Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. They serve as snapshots capturing a specific place and time, cherished relics for collectors, and exquisite works of art. Notably, a map (conceived by Walt Disney and illustrated by Herbert Ryman) was instrumental in pitching the Disneyland concept to investors. Unveil this collection of exquisite maps dating back to the inauguration of the original Disney Park in 1955 and continuing to the present day. 3. Clues in a Travel Scrapbook Create a scrapbook containing hints about the upcoming journey. Add graphics and photos, brief descriptions of scheduled activities, and clues. You could hide the individual pages to be found and collected in a binder. Design the pages giving clues toward the big reveal. For example, each hint could symbolize experiences like animal encounters, rides, or breathtaking views. Anticipation builds as each page is revealed until your destination is revealed. Adventure Scrapbook 4. Travel-Inspired Gift Basket or Bag Create a themed gift basket or bag for your destination. Fill it with items related to their destination, such as local snacks, travel-sized toiletries, a guidebook, and a travel itinerary. You might also include a travel journal to document their journey, creating a space for them to reflect on their experiences. Wolf Hooded Blanket Firefly Experience by Radim Schreiber 5. Thematic Puzzle Reveal Create an interactive activity by designing a personalized puzzle. Use a blank puzzle or photo puzzle as a template so that the assembled design unveils either the location or fun facts. If you choose a puzzle with only a few pieces, you can hide pieces around the house for a game of hide-and-seek, or even create a scavenger hunt to find the pieces. With a premade puzzle, consider hiding a single piece for the family to discover before finishing the puzzle. Customizable Blank Puzzles Personalized Photo Puzzle Or consider a puzzle representing your destination. Our family collects Thomas Kinkade's beautiful collection of Disney Puzzles and we assemble them in the winter months. Thomas Kinkade Disney Parks Puzzles Vintage posters of American destinations are another favorite collectible puzzle. MyPuzzle.com offers a beautiful selection of puzzles for the National Parks, the states, and overseas travel. Smoky Mountain Puzzle By MyPuzzle.com 6. Postcard Surprise Purchase postcards representing your getaway. You can mail one a day (ahead of the final reveal), exposing a clue each day. Or, you can mail one to each member of the family. Or you can use the postcards to hide clues for a scavenger hunt around the house. National Parks Postcards 7. Adventure Countdown Calendar Create excitement leading up to the trip with an "Adventure Countdown Calendar." You can buy a set of large envelopes and fill each day with small activities inspired by the destination. For instance, if they're visiting Mexico, activities could include learning a few Spanish phrases, making guacamole, or watching a movie set in Mexico. This adds an element of fun and anticipation as they look forward to their upcoming adventure. Or you can purchase a premade countdown calendar like this one from Disney: Disney Countdown Calendar 8. Video Presentation When we surprised our girls with a Disney vacation as a Christmas gift, we showed a clip of an old Disney Christmas parade on TV (they were young) and the clip interrupted with my husband and me revealing (on the prerecorded video) that we were going to Disney. There are many creative ways to make your video announcement on YouTube. 9. Interactive Game Night Organize a fun family game night as the reveal for the travel gift. Create trivia games that cover local facts, foods, or customs related to the destination, or purchase a trivia game for your destination. Then, present them with a beautifully decorated envelope that contains all the trip details. National Parks Trivia Disney World Trivia Book 10. A Surprise Dinner Plan a themed dinner night at home. Prepare a meal inspired by the destination's cuisine and set the mood with decor. At the end of the meal, present a beautifully crafted card or itinerary with details of the trip. Make Unforgettable Memories When you gift a trip, part of the fun is the excitement of looking forward to the adventure, the unique way you present the gift, and the shared love for trying new things together. Whether you choose to put together a cool scrapbook, cook them a delicious meal, or create a scavenger hunt or puzzle challenge, your personal touch will make this trip even more memorable. Pin This Post: More Inspiration for your Vacation Gift:

Embrace the Danish concept of hygge—creating warmth, coziness, and joy—right in your own home. A staycation doesn’t have to be dull or ordinary. By focusing on simple pleasures, you can transform your weekend into a delightful escape that nourishes your soul. Here are 35 hygge-inspired staycation ideas to inspire a warm and inviting weekend, filled with comfort and charm. Hygge Home Retreat Ideas Create a Candlelit Evening  – Dine by candlelight. Ignite the fireplace, illuminate candles around your house, and establish a calming atmosphere. Bake Homemade Bread or Pastries  – Fill your home with the comforting aroma of freshly baked bread or pastries. Try a new recipe, and enjoy the process as much as the final product. Build a Blanket Fort  – Transform your living room into a cozy nest using blankets, cushions, and fairy lights. Perfect for family movie nights or solo reading retreats. Have a No-Tech Day  – Disconnect from screens and focus on enjoying analog activities like board games, puzzles, or journaling. Set Up a Home Spa  – Create a spa-like experience with warm baths, homemade face masks, and soothing essential oils. Dim the lights and play calming nature sounds. Host a Hot Chocolate Bar  – Make an event out of crafting the perfect cup of hot chocolate with toppings like whipped cream, marshmallows, and sprinkles. Enjoy a Cozy Book Nook  – Dedicate time to curling up with a favorite book in a comfortable corner of your home. Add a throw blanket and your favorite tea for extra coziness. Journal Your Gratitudes  – Spend some quiet time writing down things you’re grateful for. Pair this activity with a warm drink to enhance the hygge mood. Plan a Themed Dinner Night  – Prepare a comforting meal from a favorite cuisine and set the table with candles and soft linens. Practice Knitting or Crafting  – Engage in slow hobbies like knitting, crocheting, or painting. The repetitive motions and creativity are both relaxing and fulfilling. Movie Marathon Night  – Choose a theme or favorite series, gather cozy blankets, and indulge in an uninterrupted movie night. Make Your Own Potpourri  – Use dried citrus, cloves, and cinnamon to create a natural, fragrant decoration for your home. Host a Tea Tasting  – Explore different types of teas and create a cozy moment to savor each one. Write Letters or Cards  – Take time to handwrite notes to loved ones, adding a personal and thoughtful touch. Cook a Family Recipe  – Recreate a dish from your childhood and reminisce over shared stories around the table. Hygge Outdoor Staycation Ideas Go for a Nature Walk  – Find a local park or trail and enjoy the crisp air. Bring along a thermos of hot tea or coffee for a warming break. Create a Backyard Bonfire  – Gather around a fire pit with cozy blankets and enjoy roasting marshmallows under the stars. Have a Picnic in Your Backyard  – Lay out a blanket, pack a basket with comfort foods, and enjoy dining alfresco without leaving home. Stargaze with Warm Drinks  – On a clear night, bundle up and spend time observing the stars. Use an app or guidebook to identify constellations. Do Some Gardening  – Tending to plants, whether indoor or outdoor, can be therapeutic and a great way to reconnect with nature. Take a Scenic Drive  – Explore your hometown’s countryside or scenic routes for a peaceful adventure. Watch the Sunrise or Sunset  – Bundle up and enjoy nature’s most calming show from your backyard or a nearby hill. Set Up an Outdoor Movie Night  – Use a projector and blankets to create a magical outdoor cinema experience. Create a Bird-Watching Station  – Set up feeders and spend the day identifying local bird species. Do a Photography Walk  – Capture the small, beautiful details of your surroundings through your camera lens. Hygge Togetherness Activities Host a Game Night  – Gather your favorite board games and enjoy a night of friendly competition. Have a Storytelling Night  – Share personal stories or read aloud from a favorite book with family or friends. Cook Together  – Involve everyone in preparing a meal, from chopping vegetables to plating the dishes. Make Handmade Gifts  – Craft simple gifts like candles, soaps, or photo albums to share with loved ones. Do a Puzzle Together  – Choose a challenging puzzle and work on it as a team over the weekend. Host a Karaoke Night  – Sing your heart out with favorite tunes in a judgment-free zone. Organize a Treasure Hunt  – Create clues for a fun and interactive indoor or backyard treasure hunt. DIY Home Décor Projects  – Collaborate on sprucing up a room with handmade decorations or rearranged furniture. Volunteer Virtually  – Write cards or organize donation items together as a family. Plan Your Dream Vacation  – Spend time dreaming about future trips and create a vision board together. A hygge-inspired staycation allows you to recharge, reconnect, and find joy in simple pleasures. By focusing on comfort, warmth, and intentional living, you can transform any weekend into a peaceful retreat. Embrace these ideas to make your home a haven of happiness and serenity! Pin for Later:

Why Hygge Board Games Are Perfect for Winter Winter is the perfect time to slow down, embrace coziness, and enjoy meaningful moments with loved ones. Hygge  (pronounced "hoo-gah") is the Danish concept of comfort, warmth, and togetherness—and what better way to capture that feeling than with a relaxing board game ? Whether you’re snuggled up at home or on a winter getaway, these games will bring joy, laughter, and calm to your evenings. This post includes Amazon affiliate links, and if you choose to make a purchase, I might earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your support! 15 Cozy & Hygge Board Games for Winter Staycations We've rounded up the best hygge games on Amazon , from soothing nature-themed games to heartwarming conversation starters and strategy classics that spark connection. 1. Catan – A Cozy Classic for Strategic Fun Why It’s Hygge : Build cozy settlements, trade resources, and create your own little world. The warm color palette and relaxed strategy make it a perfect winter activity. Best for : 3-4 players, ages 10+ Playtime : 60-90 minutes How to Play : Players collect resources (wood, brick, sheep, wheat, and ore) to build roads, settlements, and cities. The first player to reach 10 points  wins. 2. Ticket to Ride – Travel the World Without Leaving Home Why It’s Hygge : Plan train routes across beautifully illustrated maps of the U.S. or Europe, making it a slow-paced, engaging game for cozy nights. Best for : 2-5 players, ages 8+ Playtime : 30-60 minutes How to Play : Players collect colored train cards to claim routes across the board, completing destination tickets for points. The longest routes and completed tickets earn bonus points. 3. Wingspan – A Serene Nature Game Why It’s Hygge : A peaceful bird-watching strategy game with gorgeous artwork that feels like a slow nature walk  in winter. Best for : 1-5 players, ages 10+ Playtime : 40-70 minutes How to Play : Players build a habitat of birds by playing bird cards, collecting food, and laying eggs  to gain points. The player with the highest score wins. 4. Rear Window – A Cozy Mystery Deduction Game Why It’s Hygge : Inspired by the classic Hitchcock film , this suspenseful yet relaxing deduction game is perfect for a mystery-filled  game night. Best for : 3-5 players, ages 13+ Playtime : 40-60 minutes How to Play : Players work together to solve a mystery, interpreting clues given by the "director" player. 5. Disney Villainous – A Cozy Disney-Themed Strategy Game Why It’s Hygge : Play as iconic Disney villains  in a beautifully designed game that blends nostalgia and strategy. Best for : 2-6 players, ages 10+ Playtime : 40-60 minutes How to Play : Players play as different Disney villains , completing their unique objectives. 6. Mexican Train Dominoes – A Classic Game for Cozy Gatherings Why It’s Hygge : Easy to learn, fun for all ages, and perfect for family game night . Best for : 2-8 players, ages 7+ Playtime : 30-60 minutes How to Play : Players take turns playing dominoes in a line, connecting to the central "train" or their personal train . The player who plays all their tiles first wins. 7. Backgammon – A Timeless, Relaxing Strategy Game Why It’s Hygge : This classic  two-player game is perfect for quiet winter evenings by the fire. Best for : 2 players, ages 10+ Playtime : 30 minutes How to Play : Players roll dice to move their pieces around the board, racing to remove all their checkers  before their opponent. 8. Scrabble – A Cozy Word Game for Language Lovers Why It’s Hygge : Nothing says cozy winter night  like a cup of tea and a game of Scrabble by the fire. Best for : 2-4 players, ages 10+ Playtime : 50-90 minutes How to Play : Players form words on a grid, earning points based on letter values and premium board spaces. 9. Checkers – A Simple, Relaxing Two-Player Classic Why It’s Hygge : The ultimate nostalgic  board game, perfect for unwinding on a winter evening. Best for : 2 players, ages 6+ Playtime : 15-30 minutes How to Play : Players move pieces diagonally, capturing opponents’ pieces by jumping over them. The first to eliminate all of their opponent’s pieces wins. 10. Dixit – A Dreamy Storytelling & Imagination Game Why It’s Hygge : With stunning illustrated cards  and creative storytelling, Dixit is perfect for a dreamy, cozy night in. Best for : 3-6 players, ages 8+ Playtime : 30 minutes How to Play : Players take turns describing a card vaguely, and others submit a card that best fits the description. Players score points by guessing correctly. 11. Facts in Five – A Thoughtful Word & Trivia Game Why It’s Hygge : This engaging word association and trivia  game brings a relaxed challenge to game night. Best for : 2-6 players, ages 12+ Playtime : 20-30 minutes How to Play : Players must come up with words that fit five categories in five minutes  based on a letter drawn. 12. Lanterns: The Harvest Festival – A Relaxing Tile-Laying Game Why It’s Hygge : Warm colors, simple mechanics, and calming gameplay  make it a great fit for a hygge-themed game night. Best for : 2-4 players, ages 8+ Playtime : 30 minutes How to Play : Players place tiles to create colorful lantern patterns , earning points for completing sets. 13. Qwirkle – A Relaxing Pattern & Strategy Game Why It’s Hygge : Easy to learn but deeply engaging, Qwirkle’s tile-matching gameplay  is perfect for winding down. Best for : 2-4 players, ages 6+ Playtime : 30-45 minutes How to Play : Players take turns placing tiles with matching shapes or colors in rows, earning points for longer sequences and Qwirkles  (a row of six unique tiles). 14. Canasta – A Classic Card Game for Cozy Evenings Why It’s Hygge : This classic rummy-style card game  is perfect for a long, leisurely evening by the fire with loved ones. Best for : 2-6 players, ages 8+ Playtime : 45-90 minutes How to Play : Players create melds (sets of seven cards of the same rank) and earn points by collecting natural and mixed canastas . The game is played over multiple rounds. 15. Clue – A Cozy Mystery Night Essential Why It’s Hygge : Nothing beats a classic whodunit  on a chilly evening. Clue brings the cozy, old-world charm of a detective story , perfect for a hygge game night filled with suspense and laughter. Best for : 2-6 players, ages 8+ Playtime : 45 minutes How to Play : Players move through a mansion collecting clues  to determine who committed the crime. Final Thoughts: Create the Ultimate Hygge Game Night A cozy staycation isn’t complete without the perfect hygge board game . Whether you love nature-inspired games, meaningful conversations, or classic strategy, these games will help you embrace warmth, relaxation, and connection . Which of these games is your favorite? Let us know in the comments! Pin for Later:

Experience Missouri's Eagle Days: A Winter Spectacle It's a winter tradition in Missouri to view the bald eagles that make the state home. The Mississippi River hosts one of North America’s largest concentrations of bald eagles. Every January, visitors come to favorite spots across Missouri to watch as bald eagles soar gracefully above the state’s waterways. Eagle Days, a seasonal event hosted by the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) and Missouri State Parks, provides a great opportunity to learn about and observe America's national birds in their natural habitat. Why Winter is Eagle Season in Missouri Missouri's rivers, lakes, and reservoirs create an ideal winter habitat for bald eagles. From late December to early February, frozen waterways in the northern U.S. drive bald eagles south in pursuit of open water and food. Eagles are attracted to open water areas to find fish. Throughout the winter, birdwatchers spot bald eagles in Missouri fishing, riding ice floes, soaring above, and roosting in nearby trees. January Eagle Days Events Across Missouri Eagle Days at Missouri Department of Conservation Sites The MDC hosts a series of Eagle Days events at various conservation areas and state parks in January. These family-friendly events include educational programs, live eagle presentations, and guided viewing opportunities. Conservation experts share fascinating insights into eagle behavior, migration, and their role in the ecosystem. Locations include: Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center Springfield Conservation Nature Center Columbia Bottom Conservation Area Springfield Conservation Nature Center Twin Pines Conservation Education Center Runge Conservation Nature Center Puxico Activity Center (FEMA Building) St. Louis Eagle Days Audubon Center at Riverlands Visit MDC website for specific dates and locations near you. Missouri State Parks Bald Eagle Events in December and January Missouri State Parks also hosts eagle-themed events, such as the annual Bald Eagle Days at Roaring River State Park. Roaring River State Park offers guided walks for eagle viewing along the river in December and January. During Bald Eagle Days, the park provides both indoor activities and outdoor trips to watch eagles in their natural habitats. Visitors are advised to arrive early for optimal sightings. Tips for Eagle Watching Go Early:  Early morning is the best time to see eagles actively hunting and roosting. Dress Warmly :  Layer up to stay comfortable during outdoor viewing. Bring Binoculars or a Spotting Scope:  Enhance your viewing experience with optical gear. Respect Nature:  Observe from a distance to avoid disturbing the eagles. Remember to take only photos and leave only footprints. Pack Snacks and Drinks :  Keep yourself energized and warm during your adventure. Planning Your Trip Best places for winter eagle viewing Lake of the Ozarks at Bagnell Dam Access , east of Bagnell Eagle Bluffs Conservation Area on Route K, southwest of Columbia Lock & Dam 24 at Clarksville Lock & Dam 25 east of Winfield Mingo National Wildlife Refuge northwest of Puxico Old Chain of Rocks Bridge south of I-270, off of Riverview Drive, St. Louis Riverlands Migratory Bird Sanctuary east of West Alton Schell-Osage Conservation Area north of El Dorado Springs Smithville Lake north of Kansas City Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge south of Mound City Swan Lake National Wildlife Refuge south of Sumner Table Rock Lake and Shepherd of the Hills Fish Hatchery southwest of Branson Truman Reservoir west of Warsaw Recommended Reading & Resources: Visit the Missouri Department of Conservation website  or Missouri State Parks’ event pages  for updated schedules, locations, and additional tips for enjoying Eagle Days. Missouri State Parks and Historic Sites: Exploring Our Legacy This book is my favorite reference for Missouri's State Parks. Written by four skilled writers and lifelong conservationists, this beautiful book showcases the captivating history, beauty, and recreational importance of Missouri's state park system, which is ranked among the top four nationwide. The book includes hundreds of photographs and provides details on all 88 state parks and historic sites, featuring the nation's longest developed rails-to-trail project, homes of notable Missourians, Civil War battlefields, and other historical landmarks such as mills and covered bridges. The authors narrate the complete story of the park system, from its beginning in 1917 to the newest state park established in 2015, covering much of Missouri's history and its scenic and diverse landscape. 50 Things to Know About Birds in Missouri: Birds to Watch in the Show Me State Curious about Missouri's state bird or the extinct bird observed by Lewis and Clark? Interested in the harmful birds introduced to the state? If so, "Fifty Things to Know About Birds in Missouri" by Stephen L. Reinbold is for you. This book offers insights often overlooked in traditional bird identification guides, presenting surprising answers from top experts. Discover the largest, smallest, fastest, and most unusual bird species in Missouri, enhancing your appreciation of the state's rich natural history. Purchase Kindle Edition. Bald Eagles In The Wild: A Visual Essay of America's National Bird The Bald Eagle, designated as America’s official bird in 1782, symbolizes freedom and patriotism. Once nearly extinct, it is now a protected species experiencing a resurgence. In this book, wildlife photographer Jeffrey Rich showcases over 150 photographs of Bald Eagles, offering insights into their habitat, feeding, mating behaviors, and care of young. Readers will be captivated by images of these majestic birds in flight, at rest, and engaged in daily activities. Purchase Kindle edition. 12x42 HD Binoculars: High Powered with Phone Adapter and Tripod The Adasion 12x42 HD Binoculars are perfect for bird watching, stargazing, travel, and sports, offering a wide field of view (367/1000 yards) and a lightweight design (1.25 lbs) with an 18mm eyepiece for clarity. They feature a BAK4 prism for enhanced color and reduced dark edges, along with fully multi-coated lenses for better light transmission in low light. The 2023 universal phone adapter fits all phones, and the included 360° swivel tripod ensures stable photography, ideal for bird watching and hiking. With a non-slip rubber grip, IPX7 waterproof and fogproof ratings, and a padded crossbody case, these binoculars are travel-friendly. Adjustable eyecups accommodate glasses wearers, with an eye relief of 13.6mm to 19.6mm and an easy center focus wheel for adjustments. Conclusion Missouri’s Eagle Days is a winter tradition that celebrates the beauty and resilience of one of America’s national birds. Whether you’re a seasoned bird watcher or a curious nature lover, these events offer a great way to connect with nature and make winter memories. Additional Favorites for Missouri Nature Lovers: Underground Boat Tour of the World's Largest Subterranean Lake Echo Bluff State Park : Missouri's  Best-Kept Secret for Nature Enthusiasts 8 Best Places to Camp in Missouri : Top Campgrounds for Nature Lovers 7 Reasons Missouri's  Current River is Our Favorite Exploring Laura Ingalls Wilder’s Legacy: A Guide to Must-Visit Little House Sites Discovering the Wild Horses in Mark  Twain National Forest Branson's Best Hidden Gems and Must-See Attractions The Ultimate Branson Adventure: Bowfishing with Stained Water Bowfishing Charters 10 Best Places to Visit in Missouri  in the Fall Elephant Rocks State Park : First-Timer’s Guide to Missouri’s  Natural Wonder Missouri's  Eagle Days: Winter Tradition for Nature Lovers Escape to the Firefly Treehouse: A Hidden Gem in Missouri 8 Insta-Worthy Mills You Need to Visit on Your Next Road Trip Pin for Later:

Kick off the New Year with a First Day Hike at one of America's state or national parks. This annual event is part of a nationwide effort by America’s State Parks to inspire people to enjoy the outdoors. First Day Hikes began in 1992 at Blue Hills Reservation in Massachusetts. The idea spread and more parks joined in the tradition. The goal is to encourage healthy living, an appreciation for the outdoors, and time in nature. Now, hundreds of free, guided hikes are held annually on January 1 across all 50 states. This event offers a wonderful opportunity to exercise, enjoy nature, and appreciate local parks. In 2023, almost 55,000 people celebrated the New Year by hiking more than 133,000 miles collectively. State park staff and volunteers lead each First Day Hike, sharing their expertise and passion for nature and the outdoors. The hikes vary in length and difficulty depending on the park, but they are all designed for the whole family. Find participating parks, hiking tips, and why this tradition is an ideal way to start your year. Celebrate the New Year in the Great Outdoors with a First Day Hike From scenic trails to wildlife sightings, First Day hikes provide a great beginning to the year. Think about making a New Year's Resolution to spend more time outdoors, explore parks, or exercise, and kick-start your goal with this tradition. Table of Contents: First Day Hikes FAQ 10 Tips for First-Day Hikes Participating in State Parks for First Day Hikes Start a New Year's Tradition with First-Day Hikes First Day Hikes FAQ As you explore this guide, you'll notice hikes vary in difficulty, catering to families, beginners, and seasoned hikers alike. All events depend on the weather conditions. Some hikes may require registration or fees; click the links for more information. Click the links for lists of "what to bring." In colder climates, snowshoes might be necessary, while warmer areas suggest wearing basic closed-toe shoes or hiking boots. Each park provides gear lists and safety recommendations. Please follow these guidelines carefully. 10 Tips for First-Day Hikes Wear Layers : January weather varies across the U.S., so wear layers you can add or remove as needed. Include a waterproof outer layer for unexpected rain or snow. Wear Proper Footwear : Choose sturdy hiking boots or trail shoes with good traction to handle various terrains. Remember wool socks for cold climates. Check the instructions for your hike. Spikes or snowshoes may be required. Bring Water and Snacks : Carry a reusable water bottle and energy-packed snacks. Staying hydrated is essential. Check the Weather : Check the local forecast and park conditions in advance. Some hikes are weather-dependent. Carry a Backpack : Use a small backpack for essentials like water, snacks, a first aid kit, and extra layers. Pack a First Aid Kit : Include basics like adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, and any personal medications. Arrive Early : First Day Hikes are popular and may attract large crowds, arrive in time to park, layer up, and prepare for the hike. "Take only pictures, leave only footprints" : Stay on designated paths, respect wildlife, and carry out all trash. Follow your guide's instructions. And, always remember to, "Take only pictures, leave only footprints." Consider Trekking Poles : If your hike includes uneven terrain or snowy conditions, trekking poles are a great tool to provide stability. Stay Connected : Bring a fully charged phone or GPS device for navigation and emergencies. Tip: Check out our Guide to 30 Best Products for Winter Hiking . Participating State Parks for First Day Hikes: Unique hikes include snowshoeing, hikes through zoos, dirt bike trails, cactus gardens, bird watching, canoeing, and more. Alphabetical by State: Alabama First Day Hikes: Cheaha State Park: Accessible Hike and Heritage Hike Chewacla State Park DeSoto State Park Gulf State Park: First Day Hike and Sunset on the Delta Hike Joe Wheeler State Park Lake Guntersville State Park Lakepoint State Park Monte Sano State Park Oak Mountain State Park Rickwood Caverns State Park Wind Creek State Park Alaska First Day Hikes: Chugach State Park: Alaska State Parks will announce details on their Facebook Page . This ski/snowshoe hike is perfect for cold-weather fans. Arizona First Day Hikes: Buckskin Mountain State Park : Easy cactus garden hike. Cattail Cove State Park : A moderate, 3-mile hike provides an amazing view of the Colorado River. Dead Horse Ranch State Park : A 3-mile guided hike through the upland desert, offering views of the Verde Valley. Enjoy scenic overlooks of the Verde River and Tuzigoot National Monument. Homolovi State Park : Hike to Diné Point via the Tsu’vö trail. Hikers will pass by petroglyphs from the early occupation period at Homolovi (620-890AD) up to Diné Point overlook. The hike is on moderate, sandy trails and is approximately two miles total. Kartchner Caverns State Park : A 2.5-mile hike on the moderately difficult Foothills Loop Trail. Lake Havasu State Park : The hike is moderate, with sand and gravel trails, about 1.5-2 miles long. The hike features scenic views of the lake and ends in a beautiful cactus garden with water and snacks. Lost Dutchman State Park :  This hike is 1.6 miles and may take over one hour. Prepare for rocky terrain with slight elevation gain, a couple of dips, and narrow sections. Ly man Lake State Park : Guided hike of the Petroglyph Trail (weather dependent). The trail requires a mild climb, and several petroglyphs (pictures carved on stone) and interpretive signs are easily visible. Oracle State Park : This trail is approximately 1.5 miles long ranges from easy to moderate, and has some elevation changes along the way. Enjoy scenic views, listen, and look for wildlife along the trail. Patagonia Lake State Park : A 1.5-mile hike with spectacular views all around. The hike is moderate in difficulty. Discover the lake pontoon boat tours will be offered as well. Picacho Peak State Park:   Challenge seekers, join our guide up to the peak via the Hunter Trail. This challenging hike involves steep switchbacks, rock scrambles, climbing up several cableways, and an elevation gain of 1,600ft. Total distance is 3.2 miles round-trip and takes 4-5 hours. Red Rock State Park : Choose an easy bird walk or a nature walk. Riordan Mansion State Historic Park : This guided walk will last about an hour as we explore our 5 acres. Rockin' River Ranch State Park : Explore the White Cliffs Trail, a 1.7-mile loop that takes you along and through the riparian area of the park, viewing beautiful white cliffs of the Verde River, and then into a mesquite bosque and through the highland desert landscape. Slide Rock State Park :  Visitors will head out on a 1.5-mile walk with informative tidbits of geology, wildlife, homestead history, and plant life around Slide Rock State Park. Arkansas First Day Hikes: Arkansas State Parks : Arkansas is offering guided hikes at numerous Arkansas State Parks and encouraging self-guided walks and hikes during "New Year Week" (Dec. 28-Jan. 5) for those who wish to explore independently. Those who participate may receive a free "Hike Arkansas State Parks" sticker in one of two ways: Participate in a guided hike at a state park on January 1 and receive a sticker at the program. Or, self-guided hikers can log their New Year Weekend (Dec. 28 - Jan. 5) hikes in Arkansas State Parks by completing a form, and they will mail a free sticker to each person in your group. An entry form link will be available here starting December 28. Bull Shoals-White River State Park Daisy State Park DeGray Lake Resort State Park Hobbs State Park Lake Catherine State Park Lake Chicot State Park Lake Dardanelle State Park Mississippi River State Park Mount Magazine State Park Ozark Folk Center State Park Pinnacle Mountain State Park Plum Bayou Mounds Archeological State Park White Oak Lake State Park California First Day Hikes: Big Basin Redwoods SP : This moderately difficult to strenuous hike with an 800-foot elevation gain will take you up the Dool Trail, along the Middle Ridge fire road, down the Meteor Trail, and back on the lower portion of the Skyline to the Sea Trail next to Opal Creek. Carnegie SVRA : Dirt Bike or ATV trail: explore some areas of the park and learn about animals. Ride difficulty will be based on group skill level.  Length of Hike: 5.0 miles, 1 hour Preparation: Must have a dirt bike or ATV and wear safety gear (boots, helmet, gloves, goggles, etc).  Delta Meadows : The route is largely flat, with gravel and cobblestone surfaces. The hike is easy, and participants may join for a one-hour out-and-back portion, or join in an additional half-hour loop at the the end.  The Forest of Nisene Marks SP : A four-mile, four-hour walk at George's Picnic Area and take the Loma Prieta Grade Trail to the Porter House site to the site where the town of Loma Prieta was located and the hidden spot deep in the redwood forest where marine fossils can be found. Participants will encounter the remains of the old lumber mill, follow the trail of the ghost trestles, and learn about the wonders of the giant redwoods and their survival. The trails are relatively flat with a slight incline and have low/moderate difficulty. Difficulty can increase if the trails are wet/muddy. Henry Cowell Redwoods SP : Walk beneath giant trees to learn about coast redwoods and experience the redwood forest. Please bring weather-appropriate clothing and be prepared to walk 1 mile on a flat, easy trail. The event is canceled only if the park is under a high wind advisory.  Hollister Hills SVRA : This is a family-friendly 1.5-mile hike, along an easy-to-moderate trail (Beck Trail).   Pfeiffer Big Sur SP : Valley View Trail includes a moderate to strenuous 500-foot elevation climb through a redwood and oak woodland to the Valley View Overlook where you will be rewarded with a tremendous view of the Big Sur River Valley, Point Sur, and Andrew Molera SP.  Wilder Ranch SP : On this 2.5-mile family-friendly walk, we’ll explore the plants, animals, and geology of the coastal bluffs. A 2.5-mile loop trail is easy, with no elevation. Colorado First Day Hikes: Arkansas Headwaters State Park : Hike the 4-mile loop around the Old Midland Railroad Grade and Forest Service Road #376A, or explore the railroad grade and trails if snow is heavy. Barr Lake State Park : Join a guided nature walk with hot beverages and soup. Dogs are allowed outside the wildlife refuge. Register in advance. Cheyenne Mountain State Park : Choose from various guided hikes, find "First Day Cookies" for prizes, and enjoy hot chocolate and cookies at the Visitor Center. Eldorado Canyon State Park : Enjoy coffee and bagels at 10 am, followed by a 2-mile guided hike. A self-guided walk on Fowler Trail is also available. Fishers Peak State Park : From 10 am to 2 pm, choose between a guided or self-guided hike. Enjoy sweet treats and a hot chocolate bar. Golden Gate Canyon State Park : Volunteer-led hike on Horseshoe Trail at 10:30 am, with coffee, hot chocolate, tea, and snacks. Highline Lake State Park : Self-guided hike on Highline Lake Trail (3.3 miles) and an additional paved trail for families or wheelchair users. Ridgway State Park : Join a 1-mile guided hike from 10 am to 12 pm. Other hikes are available, with hot chocolate or tea. State Forest State Park : Snowshoe hike around Gould Loop with a CPW Ranger. Bring snowshoes; a parking pass is required. Vega State Park : Enjoy a 1-mile snowshoe hike, weather permitting, with hot drinks at the Visitor Center. More Colorado State Parks First Day Hikes Connecticut First Day Hikes: See Connecticut State Parks Calendar of Events for information. Delaware First Day Hikes: Alapocas Run Auburn Valley Bellevue Woods Brandywine Creek Brandywine Zoo : Enjoy a guided ‘hike’ through the zoo meeting lemurs, red pandas, birds, and more. Cape Henlopen State Park First State Heritage Park Fort DuPont Fort Miles Museum and Historical Area Fox Point Holt's Landing Killens Pond Lums Pond White Clay Creek Florida First Day Hikes: Northwest Florida and the Panhandle Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park, Tallahassee. First Day Hike with Nature Open Studio , Blackwater Heritage State Trail, Milton . Blackwater River State Park, Holt. Camp Helen State Park, Panama City Beach. Fred Gannon Rocky Bayou State Park, Niceville. St. Andrews State Park, Panama City. Tarkiln Bayou Preserve State Park, Pensacola. T.H. Stone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park, Port St. Joe. First Sunset on the Beach , William J “Billy Joe” Rish Recreation Area, Port St. Joe. North Central Florida First Day Equestrian Trail Ride , Cedar Key Scrub State Reserve, Cedar Key. Crystal River Preserve State Park, Crystal River. Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park, Homosassa. Fanning Springs State Park, Fanning Springs. Fort Cooper State Park, Inverness. Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park. Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park, Micanopy. Ruth B. Kirby Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park, High Springs. Suwannee River State Park, Live Oak. Central Florida Annual First Day Beach Clean-Up , Anastasia State Park, St. Augustine. Blue Spring State Park, Orange City. DeLeon Dunk Pool Plunge , De Leon Springs State Park, De Leon Springs.   DeLeon Springs State Park, DeLeon Springs. Gamble Rogers Memorial State Recreation Area at Flagler Beach, Flagler Beach. Lake Kissimmee State Park, Lake Wales. Ravine Gardens State Park, Palatka. Track Trek with a Ranger , Silver Springs State Park, Ocala. St. Sebastian River Preserve State Park, Fellsmere. Southwest Florida Alafia River State Park, Lithia. Collier-Seminole State Park, Naples. Dade Battlefield Historic State Park, Bushnell. Highlands Hammock State Park, Sebring. Honeymoon Island State Park, Dunedin. Myakka River State Park, Sarasota. First Day Hike and Scavenger Hunt , Oscar Scherer State Park, Osprey. Werner-Boyce Salt Springs State Park, Port Richey. South Florida Bahia Honda State Park, Big Pine Key. Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park, Hollywood. Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park, Key West.   John D. MacArthur Beach State Park, North Palm Beach.   John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, Key Largo. Georgia First Day Hikes: Etowah Indian Mounds Historic Site, Cartersville:  Torch-lit sunset tour on Dec. 31 at the ancient city of Etowah. James H. (Sloppy) Floyd State Park, Summerville:  Easy 1.2-mile hike around the lower lake to welcome the New Year. Kolomoki Mounds State Park, Blakely:  Short hike to the top of Mound A from the Temple Mound parking lot. A.H. Stephens State Park, Crawfordville:  Pet-friendly hike exploring the CCC’s history and Alexander H. Stephens. Amicalola Falls and Lodge, Dawsonville:  Two hikes (9:30 AM & noon) with a Birds of Prey Show at 11 AM. Black Rock Mountain State Park, Mountain City:  Sunrise hike at Blue Ridge Overlook. Pets welcome. Chattahoochee Bend State Park, Newnan:  Multiple hikes along the Wild Turkey Trail starting at the park office. Cloudland Canyon State Park, Rising Fawn:  Moderate hike around the West Rim for scenic overlooks. Crooked River State Park, St. Marys:  Hikes include the Sempervirens Trail, a guided paddle, and birding. Don Carter State Park, Gainesville:  Ranger-led hikes, night hikes, and the park’s first-ever equestrian ride. F.D. Roosevelt State Park, Pine Mountain:  3.4-mile Overlook Loop hike through winter woods. Fort Morris Historic Site, Midway:  Revolutionary War history walk with musket demonstrations. Fort Mountain State Park, Chatsworth:  Strenuous 4-mile hike to gold-panning creek and waterfall. Fort Yargo State Park, Winder:  $3/person for a First Day hike. Advance registration is required. Georgia Veterans State Park, Cordele:  Explore the Yucca Trace Trail with a commemorative sticker. Hard Labor Creek State Park, Rutledge:  2-mile scenic hike geared toward active participants. Pre-registration required. High Falls State Park, Jackson:  Choice of an ADA-accessible trail or a 2.5-mile Tranquility Trail. Indian Springs State Park, Flovilla:  Morning and intermediate hikes; pre-registration required. Jarrell Plantation Historic Site, Juliette:  3-mile hike to the Ocmulgee River; pre-register by Dec. 29. Laura S. Walker State Park, Waycross:  Sandhill community hike with a naturalist; pre-registration required. Panola Mountain State Park, Stockbridge:  Guided mountain and PATH trail hikes. Ages 10+ for the mountain hike. Pickett's Mill Battlefield Historic Site, Dallas:  Ranger-led hike on the Red Trail with refreshments. Red Top Mountain State Park, Acworth:  Morning hike on the Iron Hill Trail exploring local geology. Reed Bingham State Park, Adel:  Learn about the local ecosystem on the Gopher Tortoise loop. Richard B. Russell State Park, Elberton:  Blackwell Bridge Trail, ADA accessible and pet-friendly. Seminole State Park, Donalsonville:  Easy 2-mile stroll on the Gopher Tortoise Trail. Skidaway Island State Park, Savannah:  Explore the Big Ferry Trailhead to celebrate the park's 50th year. Smithgall Woods State Park, Helen:  Hike to Duke's Creek Falls with a cozy cabin stop midway. Stephen C. Foster State Park, Fargo:  Sunrise hike on the Trembling Earth Nature Trail. Sweetwater Creek State Park, Lithia Springs:  Sunrise hike, family-friendly trails, or accessible excursions with the Aimee Copeland Foundation. Victoria Bryant State Park, Royston:  2.3-mile Inner Loop Trail showcasing park history and wildlife. Vogel State Park, Blairsville:  Moderately strenuous 4-mile Bear Hair Gap Trail hike. Watson Mill Bridge State Park, Comer:  Scenic stroll past the power plant ruins and raceway trail. Wormsloe Historic Site, Savannah:  Walk historic Live Oak Avenue and interpretive trails. Link to Georgia State Parks First Day Hikes Hawaii First Day Hike: Sunrise Hike at Ka'iwi State Scenic Shoreline on the Makapu'u Lighthouse Trail . Gates open at 5 AM so hikers can reach the top by sunrise at 7:09 AM. Idaho First Day Hikes: Three Island Crossing State Park, Glenns Ferry, ID : Choose between a history-focused hike with Ranger John or a nature hike with Ranger Tyler. Meet at the Oregon Trail and History Center starting at noon. Enjoy cookies and hot chocolate after your adventure. Hells Gate State Park, Lewiston, ID : Explore over 12 miles of trails during unguided First Day Hikes from 10 AM to 1 PM. Check-in at the Discovery Center and enjoy free chili and hot drinks after your hike. Harriman State Park, Island Park, ID : Join a snowshoe or ski tour on the scenic John Muir Trail loop at 10 AM. Rentals are available onsite. Lucky Peak State Park, Boise, ID : Enjoy family-friendly, self-guided hikes at Sandy Point Unit from 10 AM to 1 PM, with themes like animal tracks and birding. Loaner backpacks with binoculars are available, plus free hot chocolate. The first 25 participants receive a giveaway! Heyburn State Park, Plummer, ID : Discover the trails at Heyburn State Park this New Year’s Day. Illinois First Day Hikes: List of Illinois State Parks Participating in a First Day Hike (View the park's social media for more information.) Argyle Lake Beall Woods Beaver Dam Cache River   Castle Rock Eagle Creek/Wolf Creek Eldon Hazlet State Park Ferne Clyffe Fox Ridge Giant City Illinois Beach Pere Marquette Rock Island State Trail Sand Ridge State Forest Sangchris William Powers Indiana First Day Hikes: Chain O'Lakes State Park : Walk through Chain O’Lakes State Park's beautiful winter landscape. Meet the Naturalist at the Boat Rental Parking Lot for a guided hike followed by hot cocoa and cookies. There will be an option for a 1.25-mile hike and for a 3.25-mile hike. First Day Hike, McCormick's Creek State Park : Meet at Centennial Shelter for hot chocolate and cookies. Hike our new Echo Canyon Trail at your own pace, while doing mindfulness activities along the trail. First Day Trail Run and Walk, Fairfax SRA (Monroe Lake) : This is an untimed, non-competitive run/walk. Choose from a 3.7-mile, 2.9-mile, or 1.3-mile course – and don’t forget to tap the bell and ring in the new year as you cross the finish line. The FIRST 300 to register will get the 100% embroidered, collectible, event patch. Iowa First Day Hikes: Backbone State Park : Join park staff for a 1-mile nature hike on the Bluebird Trail. Bellevue State Park : Enjoy a self-guided scavenger hunt. Cedar Rock State Park : Refresh with an outdoor Yoga Nidra session and a scenic, easy-to-moderate nature hike. Dolliver Memorial State Park : Take an easy-to-moderate hike along the river trail and enjoy winter views. Elk Rock State Park : Explore a self-guided, 2-mile trail through forest and prairie edges. Gull Point State Park : Hike the Barney Peterson Memorial Trail, featuring tallgrass prairie and wildlife. Hot chocolate at the lodge afterward. Honey Creek State Park : Follow a self-guided hike along Honey Creek’s Bayview and Lookout Trails. Lacey-Keosauqua State Park : Choose a 1-, 2-, or 3-mile hike with shuttle service back to the lodge. Lake Anita State Park : Scenic hikes start at the beach parking lot, with short or long-paved trail options. Lake Darling State Park : Meet at the lodge for an ADA-paved trail hike across the pedestrian bridge. Lake Wapello State Park : Take a 1.25-mile hike starting at the campground. Ledges State Park : Join staff for a short canyon hike followed by a chili feed at the park office. Maquoketa Caves State Park : Hike woodland trails and under the natural bridge. Moderate trail; weather-dependent. Mines of Spain State Recreation Area : Guided hikes with refreshments at the EB Lyons Nature Center. Palisades-Kepler State Park : Check in at the lodge for a hike, then warm up by the fireplace with a beverage. Pikes Peak State Park : Hike 2.5 miles from the stone shelter to scenic overlooks and Bridal Veil Falls. Pilot Knob State Park : Celebrate 100 years with a hike, hot chocolate, s’mores, and sledding. Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area : Run or hike the 9-mile multi-use trail. Prairie Rose State Park : Hike the east side of the lake, then enjoy hot chocolate and popcorn. Shimek State Forest : Take a self-guided hike. Springbrook State Park : Hike around the lake and enjoy hot chocolate and cookies afterward. Moderate trails with potential ice. Waubonsie State Park : A 2-mile off-trail hike begins at Wa-Shawtee Lodge with food and beverages before and after. Wildcat Den State Park : Follow trails past scenic landmarks like Devil’s Punch Bowl and Steamboat Rock. Hot chocolate before the hike. Yellow River State Forest : Take a 2-mile hike on White Pine and Forester Trails starting at Firetower Cabin. Learn more at Iowa State Parks . Kansas First Day Hikes: Cedar Bluff State Park : Enjoy a 1.25-mile easy trail and join the costume contest for a chance to win gift cards. Cheney State Park : Explore a 1.5-mile easy-to-moderate trail with opportunities to see deer, bald eagles, foxes, and other wildlife. Clinton State Park : Walk a 1.5-mile easy-to-moderate trail featuring Clinton Lake views, wildlife, and the Storybook Trail, ideal for beginners. Crawford State Park : Discover history on a 2.3-mile easy trail, with museum artifacts and Civil War remnants. Water, coffee, and hot chocolate were provided. El Dorado State Park : Choose hikes from 0.5 to 4 miles (easy to moderate) and explore the Story Walk Trail. Snacks, coffee, and cider are available. Elk City State Park : Choose between the 1-mile Green Thumb Trail or the 2.75-mile Table Mound Trail. Enjoy lake views, wildlife, and hot chocolate with doughnuts. Fall River State Park : Hike a 1.5-mile moderate trail with chances to spot deer and wintering eagles. Flint Hills Trail State Park : An easy trail suitable for hiking or biking. Glen Elder State Park : Walk a 2-mile easy trail with potential sightings of deer, quail, eagles, and ducks. Green Trail (Pratt, KS) : A 1-mile easy trail with wildlife viewing. Hot chocolate, cider, and water provided. Hillsdale State Park : Explore a 3-mile easy trail with wildlife sightings and snacks at the park office. Kanopolis State Park : A 2-mile moderate trail with views of rock formations, deer, and eagles. Meade State Park : Choose from three easy-to-moderate hikes (1.5, 2, or 3.5 miles). Milford State Park : A 2.5-mile moderate trail featuring native plants, wildlife, and views of Rush Creek Cove. Perry State Park : A 3-mile moderate trail through woodlands with wildlife spotting opportunities. Pomona State Park : A 1.5-mile easy trail with chances to see eagles, foxes, and songbirds. Prairie Center : A 1-mile moderate trail through prairie grasslands, woodlands, and near a pond. Prairie Dog State Park : A 1.4-mile easy trail with a story walk and wildlife signs. Prairie Spirit Trail State Park : Choose a 1- to 3-mile easy hike, guided or self-paced. Sand Hills State Park : A 2.5-mile easy trail with wildlife such as deer, eagles, and foxes. Historic Lake Scott State Park : Choose a hike from 2 to 6.5 miles, moderate in difficulty. Tuttle Creek State Park : Enjoy an easy 2.5- to 4-mile hike along Willow Lake and the Blue River. Webster State Park : Choose trails from 1 to 4 miles, easy difficulty, with views of wildlife and the lake. Wilson State Park : An ADA-accessible, 1-mile easy trail featuring a story walk and wildlife viewing. Learn more at Kansas State Parks . Kentucky First Day Hikes: Blue Licks Spring : Experience a moderate hike to the spring site to learn about how the presence of the spring has worked to create a unique cultural and natural history at the park. Moderate hike 1.5-2 hrs. Carter Caves State Park : Kick off the year with a refreshing hike on the stunning Three Bridges Trail! This free event offers the perfect opportunity to explore one of the area's most scenic trails, known for its impressive rock formations and three unique natural arches. John James Audubon State Park : Choose one of two First Day Hikes on New Year’s Day. Hike #1 will begin at 11 A.M., and Hike #2 will start at 2:00 P.M. Hikers should be prepared to experience the winter woods from pristine valley to upland forest and back, a picturesque 1-mile guided hike over hilly terrain. Louisiana First Day Hikes: Fontainebleau State Park : Join a 3-mile guided hike with the Interpretive Ranger starting at 10 a.m. at the Visitor Center. Suitable for all skill levels. North Toledo Bend State Park : Enjoy self-guided hikes on two trails: Trail A (1.5 miles) and Trail B (4 miles). St. Bernard State Park : Take a short nature trail hike of less than a mile. Sam Houston Jones State Park : Hike the 1.6-mile Riverwalk Trail with Master Naturalist Barbara Morris from 9 to 11 a.m. Forts Randolph-Buhlow State Historic Site : Explore trails on a self-guided tour, including three 0.25-mile paths: Boardwalk Trail A, Boardwalk Trail B, and the trail between forts. Mansfield State Historic Site : Hike General Mouton’s 1-mile trail starting at 10 a.m. Meet at the museum. Poverty Point World Heritage Site : Walk 2.6 miles around the mounds. Meet at the museum at 10 a.m. to start. Learn more at Louisiana State Parks . Maine First Day Hikes: Camden Hills State Park: Experience a scenic 2.6-mile hike on the Megunticook and Adams Lookout Trails. The Megunticook Trail is a moderately difficult hike that leads to the easy Adams Lookout Trail. Both trails provide scenic points that include excellent views of Penobscot Bay. Holbrook Island Sanctuary: The hike is a leisurely 1.5-mile walk for all ages. Warm beverages, water, and snacks will be on hand at the start and finish of the walk. The guided hike will begin at 1:30 or explore on your own anytime during the afternoon. Mount Blue State Park: This is an easy-to-moderate 1.5-mile history hike with several gentle hills and some rocks. Self-guided Hike Guides: Bradbury Mt. State Park , Freeport - download self-guided hike . Camden Hills State Park , Camden - download the self-guided hike . Popham Beach State Park , Phippsburg - download seashore activity pages . Reid State Park , Georgetown - download the Little River Trail self-guided hike . Wolfe's Neck Woods State Park , Freeport - download the self-guided hike Learn more at Maine State Parks . Maryland First Day Hikes: Ranger-led hikes will be hosted at various Maryland State Parks. These hikes will be led by a Park Ranger, have specific start times and many require pre-registration. Self-guided hikes : These hikes will be available throughout the weekend, on well-marked trails. Park staff and volunteers may be available for questions. Learn more at Maryland State Parks . Massachusetts First Day Hikes: Breakheart Reservation   Halibut Point State Park Middlesex Fells Reservation Walden Pond State Reservation Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve Blue Hills Reservation Blackstone River and Canal Heritage State Park   Dunn State Park Willard Brook State Forest Wachusett Reservoir Great Falls Discovery Center Chester Blandford State Forest Mount Greylock State Reservation Learn more at Massachusetts State Parks . Michigan First Day Hikes: Orchard Beach State Park: Lantern Lit Hike . Enjoy the fresh air on a half-mile-lighted trail. Learn more at Michigan State Parks . Minnesota First Day Hikes: Nerstrand Big Woods State Park: Explore the forest while also helping us discover how to stay energized all year long. Blue Mounds State Park: Join the naturalist for a 1.2-mile hike along parts of the Upper Cliffline and Lower Cliffline Trails. Fort Snelling State Park: Join the naturalist for the first hike of the year. Explore the park trails to look for wildlife. If the snow depth is six inches or deeper, use snowshoes and go off into the woods to explore areas that are normally not ventured. Bring your pair of snowshoes or the park will provide a pair for you (age 5 and up). Plan to hike about one and a half miles. Snowshoe Under the Pines Lake Bemidji State Park: Embark on a refreshing snowshoe adventure through the winter wonderland under the tall pine trees. Whether you're a seasoned snowshoer or a beginner, this guided trek will be the perfect way to embrace the crisp air and serene beauty of the season. Snowshoe Walk Jay Cooke State Park: One-mile hike in the snow. Bring your own or borrow ours. We have a variety of sizes from preschool to large adult snowshoes to borrow at no charge. Let us know if you need snowshoes when you register. Snowshoes Wild River State Park: Enjoy a three-mile snowshoe hike to the St. Croix River. Whitewater State Park - Visitor Center: A peaceful 1-mile walk along the Whitewater River. Minneopa State Park: This hike covers approximately 2 miles on mostly flat terrain. Be sure to dress warmly and wear sturdy, comfortable boots. Learn more at Minnesota State Parks . Mississippi First Day Hikes: Buccaneer State Park First Day Hikes: Hike on the Pirate's Alley Nature Trail at Buccaneer State Park. Clarkco State Park First Day Hikes: Refreshments will be served. Clark Creek Nature Area First Day Hike: Two-mile waterfall hike. Hugh White State Park First Day Hikes: Enjoy coffee and donuts to fuel up before we hit the trails. Legion State Park First Day Hike: This scenic 1.6-mile trail offers an adventure through uphill and downhill paths, with steps in some areas. It’s perfect for getting outdoors and embracing nature. Lake Lincoln State Park First Day Hikes: Family-friendly hike. Lake Lowndes State Park First Day Hikes: Choose from a 3.5-mile journey along the Opossum Trail or, for the adventurous souls, a challenging 7-mile hike on the horse trail with hills and creek crossings. Lefleur's Bluff State Park First Day Hikes: Meet in the day-use area at 9 a.m. Legion State Park First Day Hike: This scenic 1.6-mile trail offers an adventure through uphill and downhill paths, with steps in some areas. It’s perfect for getting outdoors and embracing nature. Natchez State Park First Day Hike: Family-friendly hike. Roosevelt State Park First Day Hikes: Family-friendly hike. Tishomingo State Park First Day Hikes: Enjoy the CCC Camp Trail, featuring stunning cliff views overlooking Bear Creek. This hike is suitable for all skill levels. After the hike, enjoy refreshments and a traditional New Year's Day lunch, courtesy of Friends of Tishomingo State Park. Wall Doxey State Park First Day Hikes: Admission is included with the park entry fee. Learn more at Mississippi State Parks . Missouri First Day Hikes: Bennett Spring State Park: Moderate 2.5-mile hike. See a chert woodland habitat that is unique to the area. Crowder State Park: 2-mile hike on Redbud Trail. Hawn State Park: This moderately difficult guided hike will cover all 3.8 miles of the Spanish Land Grant Trail and should take about two and a half hours to complete. Katy Trail and Rock Island Trail State Parks: Hikers will have an opportunity to learn about the Rock Island Trail's creation and operations and will get to ask questions and possibly see some wildlife. At 2 p.m., participants will depart from the Katy Trail trailhead in Windsor. Knob Noster State Park: 1-mile easy hike, viewing deer, squirrels and other wildlife. Meramec State Park: 2.5-mile moderately challenging hike. Explore woodlands, glades, river bottoms, and bluffs. Spot wildlife such as deer, bald eagles, and maybe even a river otter. St. Francois State Park: Choose a 3.15-mile hike moderately difficult hike that should take about two and a half hours to complete, or an easy walk that will consist of a 1.1-mile paved loop and should take about a half hour to complete. Table Rock State Park: This 2-mile paved trail is relatively flat, so it is popular among visitors of all abilities. As it runs along the shoreline, it provides good views of the lake on the lower side and of 200-plus-year-old oaks on the upper side. Learn more at Missouri State Parks . Montana First Day Hikes: Bigfork, MT – Flathead Lake State Park (Wayfarers) : Meet at the Flathead Lake Ranger Station at 10 a.m. for a 1-2 mile moderate hike with scenic stops. Children should be prepared for uphill trails. Kalispell, MT – Lone Pine State Park : Join a 1.75-mile guided hike or a shorter self-guided night hike to the overlook from 5-7 p.m. Warm drinks and a campfire await at the picnic shelter. Snowshoes available (first-come, first-served). Whitehall, MT – Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park : Meet at the visitor center at 11 a.m. for a 3-4 mile moderate hike exploring less-traveled park areas. Glendive, MT – Makoshika State Park : Enjoy an easy, 1-mile hike through badland topography at 11 a.m., starting at the visitor center. Refreshments provided. Helena, MT – Spring Meadow Lake State Park : Join park staff for a leisurely 1-mile hike around the lake at noon. Hot cocoa and cookies provided. Missoula, MT – Travelers' Rest State Park : Explore the historic Travelers’ Rest campsite on an easy 1-mile hike at 11 a.m., with wildlife viewing along Lolo Creek. Enjoy hot chocolate and a winter ecology game at the visitor center afterward. Learn more at Montana State Parks . Nebraska First Day Hikes: Ash Hollow SHP : Meet at the Overlook Trailhead parking lot on the west side of Hwy 26 at 10 a.m. MT. Enjoy a 1-mile hike with steep inclines and scenic views of the North Platte River Valley. Afterward, join a potluck soup luncheon at the Visitor Center at 11:30 a.m. MT. Drop off potluck items beforehand. Chadron State Park : Meet at the central building for a 2.5-mile moderate hike on the Cabin Trail, featuring flat terrain and some steep inclines. An alternative flat route is available. The hike takes about 1.5 hours. Fort Hartsuff : Explore a 0.5-mile easy walk on a flat, rocked path around the parade ground. Some steps or stairs may lead to historical buildings. Restrooms are available. Fort Kearny SRA : Join a 1.8-mile easy hike on a paved trail to the South Railroad Bridge. Learn about the park's history and nature. Indian Cave State Park : Meet at Trailhead #7 at 10 a.m. CT for a flat, 0.5-mile, family-friendly hike. Bring bottled water and binoculars. Johnson Lake SRA : Enjoy a 1-2 mile easy hike along the Roper Section Trail, featuring winter scenery and wildlife. The trail is paved and accessible. Lake Ogallala SRA : Meet at the Eagle Viewing Station at 10 a.m. MT for a 3.5-mile flat, gravel hike. Look for birds and wildlife, and enjoy hot drinks, cookies, s’mores, and Dutch oven popcorn. Louisville SRA : Meet near the parking lot by the entry kiosk/park office for a winter birding hike along wooded trails by the Platte River. Binoculars and birding guides are provided. Mahoney State Park : Meet at the James Family Conservatory & Nature Center. Guided hikes begin at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Explore the conservatory and enjoy a campfire with s’mores. Mormon Island SRA : Meet at the Bullhead Pond trailhead near the west parking lot for a sunset hike along the Chain-of-Lakes Trail. This 1-mile easy hike features flat terrain and scenic views of the Platte River at dusk. Platte River State Park : Meet at Walter Scott Lodge at 9 a.m. for a hike to Stone Creek Falls. Warm up afterward with hot cocoa, coffee, and donut holes. Ponca State Park : Gather at the West Shelter for a 1.25-mile easy/moderate hike on Old Oak Trail. Enjoy hot cocoa, cookies, and a warm fire after the hike. Red Willow SRA: Meet at Site #48 for a 1.39-mile easy/moderate hike with hilly terrain and wildlife sightings, including deer and songbirds. Schramm Park : Meet at the Schramm Education Center at 10:30 a.m. for hikes on either the flat Catalpa Trail or forested hills. Kids can enjoy a winter art activity. Windmill SRA : Meet at Waupans Trail Head (Lake #1 Loop) for a 1.5-mile easy hike on a grass-mowed trail. Watch for winter wildlife and birds. Wildcat Hills SRA : Choose from two dirt/gravel trails: the 0.5-mile Nature Trail or the 2-mile Turkey Run Trail, which has steeper slopes. Both start at the Nature Center. Dogs are allowed on leashes. Wagon Train SRA : Explore the Area 2 Trail, a 1-2 mile easy dirt hike featuring winter scenery and possible wildlife sightings, including migratory birds. Learn more at Nebraska State Parks . Nevada First Day Hikes: Valley of Fire State Park : Guided hikes will be offered at Valley of Fire State Park. Learn more at Nevada State Parks .   New Hampshire First Day Hikes: Milan Hill State Park : Explore 16 km of trails for skiing or snowshoeing, with maps provided. Enjoy scenic views, including a 360° view from the fire tower. Warm drinks and snacks at the Warming Hut. Monadnock State Park : Choose a 3-mile hike to Little Mountain Viewpoint (3 hours) or a 2-hour hike to Cliff Walk Junction. Enjoy rolling hills, stone walls, and Poole Reservoir views. Hot drinks and snacks are available post-hike. Northwood Meadows State Park : Walk the 0.5-mile Universal Trail or the 2.5-mile Lake Trail. Relax by the fire with hot beverages and snacks afterward. Odiorne Point State Park : Self-guided hikes on the 3-mile Odiorne Loop or 0.9-mile Founders Monument Trail. Look for wildlife, shorebirds, and tide pools. Warm drinks and snacks provided. Pawtuckaway State Park : Enjoy a 2-mile, out-and-back hike from the headquarters to Mountain Pond and Round Pond Trail. Great for all ages. Pisgah State Park : Walk the 2-mile Doolittle Trail featuring gentle grades, historic sites, and abundant wildlife. Fireside snacks and drinks at the headquarters. White Lake State Park : Take a scenic, 2-mile perimeter trail hike with views of the White Mountains. Learn more at New Hampshire State Parks . New Jersey First Day Hikes: Allaire State Park : A 4-mile hike on the green and red trails through pine and oak forests. Trails may be muddy; proper footwear is recommended. Bass River State Park : A 2.5-mile hike through cedar swamps, along Lake Absegami, and past historic CCC camp ruins. Batsto Village Historic Site : Guided tours through historic Batsto Village, exploring sites like the mansion, general store, and sawmill. Belleplain State Forest – Dog Hike : A 6-mile moderate hike with leashed dogs, hosted by Megan. Donations for Ocean City Humane Society are welcomed. Belleplain State Forest – East Creek Trail : A leisurely hike with a park naturalist exploring local nature along the East Creek Trail. Brendan T. Byrne State Forest : Options for a 2.5-mile beginner hike or a 6-mile trek on the Cranberry Trail, highlighting ecological features. D&R Canal State Park : A 2.5-mile walk along the towpath into Titusville, exploring historic homes and scenic river views. Double Trouble State Park : A 1-2 mile hike along Mill Pond Trail and Cedar Creek, finishing with a historic village walk. Dr. James Still State Park : A 1-1.5 mile easy hike through woods and meadows with volunteers. Forest Resource Education Center : A 3-mile hike on the yellow trail through upland pine forests. High Point State Park : A challenging 6-mile hike on the Appalachian Trail, returning via the easier Iris Trail. Island Beach State Park : A 1-mile out-and-back beach walk, followed by a bonfire and s’mores (weather permitting). Kittatinny Valley State Park : The PVTC hosts a 39th annual hike on the level, cinder-based Paulinskill Valley Trail. Liberty State Park : A leisurely hike to Caven Point Beach with views of the Statue of Liberty and the NY skyline. Mapleton Preserve : A noon start for an easy hike through the preserve, ending with cocoa and cookies. Monmouth Battlefield State Park : A guided hike through historic fields from the Battle of Monmouth. Parvin State Park : A naturalist-led hike on the Green Trail, learning about flora, fauna, and migratory birds. Round Valley Recreation Area : A 2.5-mile loop offering reservoir views and a mix of flat and rocky trails. Spruce Run Recreation Area : A 9- or 15-mile hike along the Warren Highlands Trail, featuring pastoral views and stream crossings. Sussex Branch/Paulinskill Rail Trail : A flat, easy horseback ride or hike along the rail trail. Lunch at Yetter’s Diner is optional. Tall Pines Preserve A leisurely hike showcasing birdlife, the audio trail, and pollinator gardens. Twin Lights Historic Site : Climb 64 steps to the North Tower for stunning Jersey Shore views. Museum access is included. Wallace House and Dutch Parsonage Historic Site : A walk along Peters Brook Greenway with excerpts from a Revolutionary-era journal. Washington Crossing State Park : A leisurely hike on the red-dot trail with nature facts shared along the way. Wawayanda State Park : A 5.5-mile hike around Wawayanda Lake’s perimeter. Wharton State Forest : A 2.5-mile roundtrip hike to Apple Pie Hill with a sunrise fire tower climb. Learn more at New Jersey State Parks . New Mexico First Day Hikes: Brantley Lake: A 3-mile hike featuring wildlife tracks and park history. Cerrillos Hills: A 3-mile hike with trivia, prizes, and varied terrain. Dogs are allowed on leashes. Fenton Lake: Guided hike through scenic trails. Bring snowshoes if needed. Hyde Memorial: Moderate hike on East Circle Trail through aspen and pine forests. Living Desert: 1.3-mile trail featuring local desert plants and animals. Pancho Villa: Short 0.25-mile hike exploring desert beauty and history. Rio Grande Nature Center : Winter Festival with bird walks, crafts, live ambassador birds, and several natural history presentations Santa Rosa Lake: Scenic hike along the dam and lake with trail maps provided. Storrie Lake: 29th Annual Polar Bear Plunge starting at noon. Sugarite Canyon: Snowy hike by Lake Maloya with scenic views and possible ice walking. Learn more at New Mexico State Parks . New York First Day Hikes: New York provides a variety of choices, from self-guided walks to hikes led by staff or volunteers. Some locations offer several options, giving individuals the opportunity to appreciate the winter beauty of nature. These family-friendly walks and hikes generally span one to five miles, based on the location and conditions. Hikes are organized at state parks and historic sites, DEC State lands, wildlife areas, Forest Preserve trails, canal trails and towpaths, and environmental education centers. Learn more at New York State Parks . North Carolina First Day Hikes: Carolina Beach State Park: Join a Park Ranger to hike the Sugarloaf Trail at the Marina for a 2-mile round trip hike to Sugarloaf Dune. Lace up your shoes, bring water, and start your new year off right. The hike will begin at 10 a.m. Learn more at North Carolina State Parks . North Dakota First Day Hikes: Fort Abraham Lincoln State Parks: The trail length will be approximately 2.5 miles from start to finish over beautiful rolling hills and some forested areas. In the event of adverse weather, the trail route will be shortened. Learn more at North Dakota State Parks . Ohio First Day Hikes: Caesar Creek State Park : Meet at the Nature Center. All are welcome. Deer Creek State Park : Start the year with a hike on the Hawkview Meadow Trail with the naturalist. Indian Lake State Park : Join the First Day Hike and official Winter Hike Series event. Commemorative stickers are available while supplies last. Lake Hope State Park : Join the First Day Hike as part of the official ODNR Winter Hike Series. Commemorative stickers are available while supplies last. Left Behind - Maumee Bay : Meet inside the Nature Center. Maumee Bay State Park : Meet outside the Nature Center. Marblehead Lighthouse : Meet at the base of the lighthouse for a short walk around the park grounds. All are welcome. Punderson State Park : Bundle up for a 1.5-mile hike on the Beach and Iroquois Trails. Leashed, well-behaved dogs are welcome. Moderate hike. Salt Fork State Park : Hike into the New Year at Salt Fork. Shawnee State Park : Begin the new year with an easy 1-mile loop through an oak-hickory woodland. Learn more at Ohio Dept. of Natural Resources . Oklahoma First Day Hikes: Cherokee Landing State Park   - Park Hill: Easy .75 mile hike. Foss State Park   – Foss: Moderate 2-mile hike. Greenleaf State Park   – Braggs: Eash 1 mile hike. Keystone State Park   - Sand Springs: Moderate 1-mile hike. Lake Texoma State Park   – Kingston: Moderate 3.9-mile hike. Lake Thunderbird State Park   – Norman: Easy .75 mile or moderate 1.5 mile hike. Osage Hills State Park   – Pawhuska: Moderate 1 or 4-mile hike. Talimena State Park   – Talihina: Moderate 1.5-mile hike. If you miss the January 1st hikes, check out these guided hikes happening at  Fort Cobb State Park   and   Great Plains State Park . Learn more at TravelOk . Oregon First Day Hikes: Champoeg Archaeological District : Enjoy an easy stroll to explore artifacts and stories from the historic Champoeg townsite. Collier Memorial : A 3-mile hike from the Klamath Outdoor Science School includes a stop at the Wood River headwaters and a warm bonfire with refreshments. Cottonwood Canyon : Follow the John Day River trail to admire desert landscapes and spot wildlife like mule deer and bighorn sheep. The Cove Palisades : Ranger-led hike through Crooked River Wetlands and up the Rim Trail for stunning views of Mt. Jefferson and the Three Sisters. Elijah Bristow : A 3-mile loop along the Middle Fork Willamette River offers flat, easy terrain on a gravel trail. Face Rock State Park : A 1.5-mile hike showcases the Coquille Point Marine Garden and coastal wildlife. Fogarty Creek : Moderate OCT hike with 60 feet of elevation, rock stair sections, and a short stretch along Hwy 101. Fort Stevens : Explore historic sites from the Civil War to WWII while enjoying views of the Columbia River. Heceta Head Lighthouse : A half-mile scenic hike to Oregon’s iconic lighthouse, with volunteers providing historical insights. Honeyman : A 2.5-mile trail weaves through forests and along Woahink Lake, highlighting natural and human history. Illinois River Forks : Discover rare plants and local wood carvings on this hike through serpentine soil landscapes. Milo McIver : A ½-mile loop on Dog Creek Trail features salmon, kingfishers, and one of the largest Pacific Yew trees. Oswald West : A guided hike through park trails reveals the area’s history and natural beauty. Shore Acres : A 1.5-mile hike covers park highlights like rocks, plants, and coastal mushrooms. Expect muddy conditions. Silver Falls : A 1.5-mile trek on the North Rim Trail offers scenic views and outdoor preparation tips. Leashed pets are allowed. Sitka Sedge : A 2.5-mile trail through Sandlake Estuary and forest features bird-watching and coastal views. Smith Rock : A 1.5-mile hike along the Crooked River involves steep sections and scenic canyon views. Sunset Bay : A 1.5-mile coastal hike highlights rocks, animals, and plant life in varied terrain. TouVelle State Park : A 1.25-mile loop explores the Rogue River, local wildlife, and winter park features. Tryon Creek : Guided hikes range from 0.25 to 5 miles, exploring the forest’s natural beauty. Tumalo State Park : A 3-mile hike offers scenic views and takes about 1.5 hours. Valley of the Rogue : Celebrate the New Year on an easy 1.5-mile hike along the Greenway and River’s Edge trails. Willamette River Greenway : A 1-mile hike highlights the vibrant colors of winter plants. The trail may have standing water. Yachats State Recreation Area : A hike along the 804 trail offers ocean views, possible whale sightings, and a sunset finale. Learn more at Oregon State Parks . Pennsylvania First Day Hikes: Bald Eagle State Park : Join an easy-to-moderate 1.5-mile hike along the Butterfly Trail, exploring winter landscapes and local wildlife. Meet at the Environmental Learning Center. The event runs from 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM. No registration is required. Beltzville State Park : Enjoy a flat, 2.5-mile loop hike exploring the history and beauty of Beltzville Lake. The hike begins at 10:00 AM at the Environmental Education and Visitor Center. Caledonia State Park : Participants will embark on a 2-mile loop along the Appalachian Trail. The hike begins at 1:00 PM from the park office. Codorus State Park : A 2-mile hike along the Mary Ann Furnace Trail starts at 10:00 AM from the Classroom Building. Cook Forest State Park : Hike the 1-mile Seneca Point Trail to see scenic overlooks. Meet at the Ridge Campground Amphitheater at 10:00 AM. Frances Slocum State Park : A leisurely 2.5-mile hike around Frances Slocum Lake starts at 1:00 PM. Meet at Pavilion 1. Hickory Run State Park : Explore the Shades of Death Trail, a 1.5-mile moderately challenging hike starting at 10:00 AM. Meet at the Hawk Falls parking lot. Moraine State Park : Take an easy 2-mile hike on the Pleasant Valley Trail, looping near Lake Arthur. Meet at the Pleasant Valley Picnic Area at 10:00 AM. Registration is required. Nockamixon State Park : A 2-mile walk around the Haycock Boat Launch begins at 10:30 AM. Pine Grove Furnace State Park : Hike a 3-mile loop around Fuller Lake, starting at 1:00 PM from the park office. Raccoon Creek State Park : Enjoy a 3-mile hike along the Wildflower Reserve starting at 1:00 PM. Ridley Creek State Park : Meet at Pavilion 11 for a 2-mile guided hike along the White Trail. The hike begins at 10:00 AM. Shawnee State Park : Join a 2-mile moderate hike on the Shawnee Loop starting at noon from Pavilion 5. Tyler State Park : A gentle 2-mile hike on the Nature Trail starts at 11:00 AM from the Boathouse parking area. Whipple Dam State Park : Participate in a 2.5-mile easy-to-moderate hike around Whipple Lake, led by a local trail volunteer. Meet at Whipple Dam Beach at 11:00 AM. Warm drinks and a fire await hikers at Pavilion 3. Learn more at Pennsylvania DCNR Events . Rhode Island First Day Hike: George Washington State Campground, Chepachet: Hike a 1.5-mile loop on uneven ground; jogging stroller-friendly. There will be outdoor information tables and activities stationed along the path. The walk will be held rain or shine, so DEM encourages participants to dress accordingly. Learn more at Rhode Island State Parks . South Carolina First Day Hikes: Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site: Explore the history of South Carolina’s first permanent European settlement on this guided hike. Highlights include the park's historical landmarks and natural beauty. Hunting Island State Park: Take in the coastal scenery on a ranger-led walk featuring discussions about the barrier island’s unique ecosystems and wildlife. Lake Hartwell State Park: Enjoy a guided hike through the woods surrounding Lake Hartwell, with opportunities to observe the area's diverse flora and fauna. Myrtle Beach State Park: Participate in a beachside hike featuring educational insights about coastal conservation and the natural environment. Oconee State Park: Learn about the region’s Appalachian culture and natural history while enjoying stunning mountain views on this guided hike. Sesquicentennial State Park: Join a ranger for a trek along the Sandhills Hiking Trail. Two sessions are offered, with opportunities to learn about local wildlife and plants. Table Rock State Park: Hike the CCC Lakeside Trail, a 1.9-mile route around Lake Pinnacle. Discover the legacy of the Civilian Conservation Corps and enjoy scenic mountain views. Learn more at South Carolina State Parks . South Dakota First Day Hikes: Adams Homestead and Nature Preserve: Join a guided hike through scenic trails showcasing the natural winter beauty of this preserve. Perfect for families and nature enthusiasts. Custer State Park - Lover’s Leap Trail: Experience a moderately challenging hike through pine forests with views of the Game Lodge area and Grace Coolidge Creek. Snowshoes are provided with prior reservations. Good Earth State Park: Enjoy a one-mile guided hike highlighting the park's history and winter wildlife. Dress warmly for this beginner-friendly hike through the beautiful natural setting. Palisades State Park: Take a refreshing hike with picturesque views of the rugged quartzite formations and the Big Sioux River. Sica Hollow State Park: Hike trails rich in cultural history while observing unique winter flora and the tranquil beauty of this forested park. Learn more at South Dakota State Parks . Tennessee First Day Hikes: Burgess Falls: Join Ranger Willis for the first-day hike at Burgess Falls. Cordell Hull Birthplace: Hike the top loop of Bunkum Cave to kick off the New Year. Cove Lake: Start with Cove Lake’s First Hike. David Crockett: Celebrate the New Year at David Crockett State Park with a hike into the year. Frozen Head: Join Ranger Aubrey for the first hike of the New Year. Henry Horton: Begin the year with a refreshing hike at Henry Horton State Park. Hiwassee Ocoee: Start your year off with a beautiful hike along the Ocoee River. Harrison Bay: Hike into the New Year starting at 11:30 p.m. on the Star Walk Trail. Meeman-Shelby: Celebrate the first day of the year with a hike at Meeman-Shelby State Park. Mousetail Landing: Start the year with a hike at Mousetail Landing State Park. Norris Dam: Ring in the New Year with an outdoor hike at Norris Dam State Park. North Chickamauga: Join Ranger Isabelle for the Annual First Day Hike at North Chickamauga. Panther Creek: Start the New Year strong with a signature First Day Hike at Panther Creek. Paris Landing: Participate in the First Day Hike at Camp Hazlewood to start the year. Pickwick Landing: Brave the crisp New Year's air with a ranger-led hike at Pickwick Landing State Park. Reelfoot Lake: Hike the Keystone Trail on the first day of the year at Reelfoot Lake. Roan Mountain: Hike Moonshiner's Run with Ranger Rodriguez and explore the woods. Rock Island: Join the annual First Day Hike at Rock Island State Park. Savage Gulf: Hike to Big Creek Overlook and Greeter Falls at Savage Gulf for the First Day Hike. Standing Stone: Start the New Year with an invigorating hike at Standing Stone State Park with Ranger Harris. Sycamore Shoals: Begin the year by hearing the incredible history of Sycamore Shoals. T.O. Fuller: Join a ranger-led hike at T.O. Fuller State Park to start the year on the right path. Warriors Path: Light up the night with a midnight First Day Hike using old-timey kerosene lanterns. Seven Islands: Enjoy a ranger-led hike at Seven Islands to start the new year. Learn more at Tennessee State Parks . Texas First Day Hikes: You may choose New Year's Eve or New Year's Day Hikes in Texas. Learn more at Texas State Parks : New Year's Eve Hikes: Black Light Hike & Scavenger Hunt at Midnight  - Fort Parker State Park Take a midnight hike along the Bur Oak Nature Trail with black lights, and enjoy a "Riddle-Me-This" scavenger hunt by moonlight. Midnight Countdown Hike  - Dinosaur Valley State Park Hike to the Scenic Overlook to say goodbye to the old year and welcome the new year. Midnight Summit First Day Hike  - Enchanted Rock State Natural Area Celebrate the New Year with a summit hike and starry skies. First Day Hike – Midnight Hike  - Lake Mineral Wells State Park & Trailway Welcome in the New Year on a memorable midnight hike. First Day Hike: Midnight Kick-Off!  - Purtis Creek State Park Join a ranger for a midnight hike along the Wolfpen Trail to start the year right. Inks First Day Events!  - Inks Lake State Park Enjoy several events spanning New Year's Eve and New Year's Day. New Year's Countdown  - Martin Creek Lake State Park Get your resolutions ready and ring in the New Year at Martin Creek Lake. Midnight at Palo Duro Canyon State Park - Celebrate the arrival of the new year with a First Day Hike on the Kiowa Trail. Jan. 1 Hikes: First Day Honey Creek Guided Walks  (Registration Required) – Honey Creek State Natural Area. Experience natural and cultural history on a guided hike. First Day Hike: Birding  – Government Canyon State Natural Area Learn birding basics and explore with field guides, binoculars, and sound recordings. First Day Hike: Forest Trail  – Martin Dies, Jr. State Park  A guided hike along the Forest Trail with official First Day Hike stickers. First Day Hike: Trek to the Tracks  – Government Canyon State Natural Area  A 5-mile guided hike to see dinosaur tracks. First Day Hike: Family-Friendly Morning Hike  – Government Canyon State Natural Area  Enjoy a leisurely family hike with the Friends of Government Canyon. First Day Hikes  – Cedar Hill State Park  Join the first hike of the year at Cedar Hill. First Day Hike: North Onion Creek Trail  – Lake Arrowhead State Park  Start the new year with a guided hike. First Day Hike: Island Trail  – Martin Dies, Jr. State Park  Celebrate the New Year with a scenic, guided trail hike. First Day Hike: Penitentiary Hollow Wild Walk  – Lake Mineral Wells State Park & Trailway  (10:00a)A guided hike exploring remote sandstone formations. First Day Hike: Track Talk  – Dinosaur Valley State Park  Learn the 113-million-year-old story of dinosaur tracks. First Day Hike: Forest Bathing  – Palmetto State Park  Ground yourself with nature on a mindful hike. First-Day Sunrise Hike  – Palo Duro Canyon State Park  Start the year with a sunrise hike in Palo Duro. First Day Hike: Dragonfly Trail  – Lake Arrowhead State Park  A lovely morning hike to celebrate the new year. Self-Guided Hikes: Self(ie) Guided First Day Hike  – Enchanted Rock State Natural Area Start the year with a self-guided hike at Enchanted Rock. Self-Guided First Day Nature Hikes  – Guadalupe River State Park Take a self-guided hike and explore the outdoors at your own pace. Self-Guided at San Angelo State Park Hike into the new year on your schedule. Self-Guided First Day Hike  – Lake Tawakoni State Park Hike any trail of your choice from 8:15a-4 pm and get a sticker at park headquarters. Self-Guided First Day Hike  – Lockhart State Park Explore at your own pace. First Day Hike: Hike the Trails Challenge  – Martin Dies, Jr. State Park Complete all trails for a challenge on January 1. Self-Guided First Day Hike  – Cooper Lake State Park – South Sulphur Unit Join on New Year's Day for a self-guided wellness hike in nature. First Day Hike: Forest Trail  – Martin Dies, Jr. State Park Start your year with a self-guided hike along the scenic Forest Trail. First Day Hike: Tails to the Trails  – Government Canyon State Natural Area A self-guided dog walk along the Savannah Loop Trail. Special Events: First Day Hike: Polar Plunge  – Balmorhea State Park  Celebrate the New Year with a splash! First Day Hike: Native First Day Hike  – Palo Duro Canyon State Park A guided hike to ring in the year in Palo Duro Canyon. First Day Fishing  – Goose Island State Park  Kick off the year with a relaxing fishing experience. First Day Fossils!  – Pedernales Falls State Park  Explore fossils and scenic views as you begin the year. First Day Hike: Habitat Restoration Hike  – Village Creek State Park  Explore the biodiversity of the Big Thicket on a guided hike. First Day Sunset Guided Hike  – Lake Tawakoni State Park Catch the first sunset of the year on a ranger-guided hike. Other Activities: First Day Animal Signs Bingo Hike  – Lockhart State Park  Discover animal signs and play bingo while hiking. First Day Hike: Island Trail  – Lake Casa Blanca International State Park Enjoy a guided trail walk to celebrate the New Year. Utah First Day Hikes: Antelope Island State Park : Enjoy the beauty of the Great Salt Lake while hiking one of the island’s popular trails. Snow Canyon State Park : One of the most stunning parks in southern Utah, with a variety of trails suitable for all abilities. Learn more at Utah State Parks . Vermont First Day Hikes: Follow the Vermont State Parks event calendar for information. Virginia First Day Hikes: Bear Creek Lake State Park  – Guided Walks at 11 a.m. Belle Isle State Park  – 2025 Is Nevermore at 10 a.m. Caledon State Park  – The Christmas Opossum's Retirement Party at 12 p.m. Chippokes State Park  – Nature Trail Detectives at 10 a.m. Chippokes State Park  – Virginia Master Naturalist Workshop at 11 a.m. Clinch River State Park  – Sugar Hill First Day Hike at 1 p.m. Douthat State Park  – Basic Tree ID Walk at 1 p.m. Douthat State Park  – 'Step Back in Time' History Walk at 3 p.m. Fairy Stone State Park  – Lakeshore Trail Hike at 12 p.m. Fairy Stone State Park  – Redbud Trail Hike at Mayo River Trails at 10 a.m. False Cape State Park  – From Bay to Beach at 9 a.m. False Cape State Park  – From Bay to Beach at 1:30 p.m. False Cape State Park  – Welcome to Wash Woods at 9 a.m. Grayson Highlands State Park  – Massie Gap Hike at 1 p.m. High Bridge Trail State Park  – Fido's First Day Hike at 11 a.m. High Bridge Trail State Park  – High Bridge Hike at 1 p.m. Holliday Lake State Park  – Northridge Overlook Hike at 9 a.m. Hungry Mother State Park  – Clyburn Ridge and Hollow Hike at 10 a.m. Hungry Mother State Park  – Forest Therapy Hike at 3 p.m. James River State Park  – Start the year off on the right foot (time not specified). Kiptopeke State Park  – First Day Hike Scavenger Hunt at 8 a.m. Lake Anna State Park  – Railroad Ford Ranger-Led Hike at 10 a.m. Lake Anna State Park  – Railroad Ford Ranger-Led Hike at 2 p.m. Leesylvania State Park  – First Day Hikes at 10 a.m. Leesylvania State Park  – Guided Discovery Hike at 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Lake Anna State Park  – Railroad Ford Ranger-Led Hike at 10 a.m. Lake Anna State Park  – Railroad Ford Ranger-Led Hike at 10 a.m. Machicomoco State Park  – Hike Through History at 9:30 a.m. Machicomoco State Park  – Self-Guided Hike (available all day) Machicomoco State Park  – Woodland Wondering at 11:30 a.m. Mason Neck State Park  – High Point Trail Hike and Roll at 2:30 p.m. Mason Neck State Park  – Morning Hike from Kane's Creek to Eagle Spur Trail at 7:30 a.m. Mason Neck State Park  – Rangers at the Refuge: Tundra Swans at 9:30 a.m. Natural Bridge State Park  – Skyline Trail Hike at 10 a.m. Natural Tunnel State Park  – Lovers' Leap Hike at 3 p.m. Natural Tunnel State Park  – Purchase Ridge Hike at 9 a.m. New River Trail State Park  – Fries Walking Tour at 12 p.m. New River Trail State Park  – Historic Village Tour at 10 a.m. New River Trail State Park  – Morning Mindfulness at 9 a.m. Occoneechee State Park  – Heart of the Park Hike at 9 a.m. Pocahontas State Park  – First Day Hike at 8 a.m. Pocahontas State Park  – Little Tyke Hike at 10 a.m. Pocahontas State Park  – Orienteering with Central VA Orienteering Club at 11 a.m. Pocahontas State Park  – Sensory Hike at 11:15 a.m. Pocahontas State Park  – Swift Creek Dam Hike at 3:45 p.m. Pocahontas State Park  – Trail-Mix Hike at 12 p.m. Powhatan State Park  – Photo Bingo Hike at 9 a.m. Powhatan State Park  – Ranger-led Hike at 10 a.m. Raymond R.  – First Day Craft at 10:30 a.m. Raymond R.  – First Day Hike at 11 a.m. Raymond R.  – First Day Stroll at 2 p.m. Seven Bends State Park  – Start Off on the Right Foot at 10 a.m. Sky Meadows State Park  – History Gone Wild Hike at 10 a.m. Sky Meadows State Park  – Little Explorers' Nature Quest at 1 p.m. Sky Meadows State Park  – Mount Bleak House Tours at 11 a.m. Staunton River Battlefield State Park  – History Walk at 1 p.m. Staunton River State Park  – River Bank Trail Hike at 10 a.m. Sweet Run State Park  – Ring in the New Year at Sweet Run at 9:45 a.m. Westmoreland State Park  – First Day Hikes: Fossil Quest at 9:30 a.m. Widewater State Park  – Sunrise First Day Hike at 7 a.m. Wilderness Road State Park  – First Day Hike at 11 a.m. York River State Park  – New Year on the York at 10 a.m. Learn more at Virginia State Parks . Washington First Day Hikes: Beacon Rock State Park Bottle Beach State Park Bridle Trails State Park Cama Beach State Park Cape Disappointment State Park Columbia Plateau Trail Deception Pass State Park Fort Worden State Park Griffiths-Priday State Park Harstine Island State Park Lake Chelan State Park Lake Easton State Park Lake Sammamish State Park Lake Sylvia State Park Lake Wenatchee State Park Larrabee State Park   Lewis and Clark State Park   Maryhill State Park   Millersylvania State Park   Mount Saint Helens Visitor Center - Seaquest State Park   Mount Spokane State Park   Mount Spokane State Park   Moran State Park   Nolte State Park   Palouse Falls State Park   Penrose Point State Park   Rockport State Park   Riverside State Park   Sacajawea State Park   Saint Edward State Park   Saltwater State Park   Scuppernong Hiking Trails   South Whidbey State Park   Spencer Spit State Park   Sun Lakes-Dry Falls State Park   Twanoh State Park   Tolmie State Park   Wenatchee Confluence State Park   Learn more at Washington State Parks . West Virginia First Day Hikes: Blackwater Falls State Park : January 1 is a great day to visit Blackwater Falls State Park, brave the elements whatever the weather may be, and participate in a First Day Hike. Bluestone State Park : Naturalist and educator Jonathan Lipscomb invites you to join him and other park folks. “As the new year gets closer, we’ll add information about where to meet, what time and some trail information.” Cacapon Resort State Park : Take your first step into the New Year with a hike at Cacapon Resort State Park. Cass Scenic Railroad State Park : This First Day Hike will be mostly flat walking. Cedar Creek State Park : Doable for all ages and skill levels. Allow about an hour to be outdoors. Kanawha State Forest : Multiple hikes are planned. Tygart Lake State Park : The hike is about a two-mile round trip and should conclude on or before noon. Learn more at West Virginia State Parks .   Wisconsin First Day Hikes: Wisconsin hosts dozens of hikes. Two favorites are: Fallison Lake Trail - Northern Highland American Legion State Forest: Enjoy a 2-mile snowshoeing or hiking adventure around Fallison Lake, featuring moderate hills and stair climbing. Afterward, warm up with hot cocoa at the trailhead.. Scuppernong Hiking Trails - Kettle Moraine State Forest (Southern Unit): Choose from 2.3-, 4.1-, or 4.9-mile loops through the forest. Participate in family-friendly activities at the warming shelter and enjoy a campfire. Learn more at Wisconsin State Parks . Wyoming First Day Hikes: Learn more at Wyoming State Parks . Start a New Year's Tradition with First-Day Hikes First-day hikes are an excellent way to kick off the year. Whether you're an experienced hiker or a beginner, state parks throughout the U.S. provide trails that cater to all interests and fitness levels. Venture out with family or friends and create a memorable New Year's Day. Pin for Later:

One of the most unique roadside attractions in Wisconsin is the Trollway of Mount Horeb ! This small town, known as the “Troll Capital of the World,”  is home to a whimsical collection of carved wooden trolls. The trolls represent the community with old-world charm, celebrating the town's Norwegian heritage. Each troll features a distinct personality, from dentist to farmer, grumpy to cheerful; these fun-loving carvings are a fun roadside oddity. The trolls greet visitors along Main Street, outside local businesses, and even in front of private homes. Our family has included this as a fun pit stop during Wisconsin vacations to the Wisconsin Dells. The History of Mount Horeb’s Trolls Mount Horeb’s trolls were chosen by the community to celebrate the town's Norwegian heritage dating back to the 1800s. In Norwegian mythology, trolls are mischievous creatures that live in the mountains and forests, sometimes helping humans but often playing tricks on them. Mount Horeb created Trollway in the 1980s, decorating the town with hand-carved wooden trolls as a way to attract visitors when a new highway bypass threatened the success of local businesses. Now Trollway  is one of Wisconsin’s most charming attractions and Mount Horeb is affectionately known as the "Troll Captial of the World." Fun Facts & Troll Statistics Number of Trolls : Over 30 trolls  reside in Mount Horeb Tallest Troll : The “Jorgen the Giant” troll , standing at an impressive 16 feet tall , is the largest in Mount Horeb . Shortest Troll : The smallest troll, under 3 feet tall , is hidden among flower beds near the visitor center—see if you can spot it! Troll Themes : Each troll has a unique personality. Some hold welcome signs , others appear to be guarding businesses , and a few are engaged in mischievous activities  like climbing buildings. New Trolls : Mount Horeb occasionally adds new trolls  to keep the tradition alive and encourage repeat visitors. Troll Stroll : A self-guided walking tour called the " Troll Stroll "  allows visitors to discover all the trolls while learning about their stories and the town’s history. Tips for Visiting the Trollway Start at the Mount Horeb Welcome Center  – Pick up a free troll map  to help you find all the wooden trolls. Or use this digital troll map on your troll hunt. Take Lots of Photos  – The trolls are highly photogenic and make for great social media posts. Explore Local Shops  – Many businesses along the Trollway sell Scandinavian gifts, handmade crafts, and troll-themed souvenirs . Try Norwegian-Inspired Food  – Don't leave town without stopping by a local café for lefse (a Norwegian flatbread) or krumkake (a Scandinavian waffle cookie). Try the Grumpy Troll , a favorite pub for lunch. Enjoy a Walking Tour  – The town is walkable , making it easy to stroll from troll to troll. Driving Distances to Mount Horeb From Milwaukee, WI  – 100 miles  (~1 hour 45 minutes) From Wisconsin Dells, WI  – 50 miles  (~1 hour) From Chicago, IL  – 160 miles  (~2 hours 45 minutes) From Des Moines, IA  – 210 miles  (~3.5 hours) From Minneapolis, MN  – 250 miles  (~4 hours) From St. Louis, MO  – 320 miles  (~5 hours) From Omaha, NE  – 400 miles  (~6 hours) From Kansas City, MO  – 400 miles  (~6 hours) Final Thoughts Mount Horeb’s Trollway  is a fun, family-friendly attraction that offers a perfect mix of history, culture, and whimsy . Whether you’re stopping by on a Wisconsin road trip or making it a destination, the trolls are sure to bring a smile to your face. With its welcoming small-town charm, Scandinavian roots, and playful atmosphere , Mount Horeb is a must-visit hidden gem  in the Midwest! Have you visited the Trollway? Which troll was your favorite? Let us know in the comments! Pin for Later:

Great Wolf Lodge: Bloomington, MN An indoor waterpark vacation promises endless fun, but packing the right essentials is key to making the most of your experience. From practical gear to thoughtful extras, we’ve curated a list of 30+ must-have products on Amazon to ensure your family’s trip is smooth, comfortable, and enjoyable. Get ready to dive in and make waves with this ultimate packing guide! This post includes Amazon affiliate links, and if you choose to make a purchase, I might earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your support! Guide to the Best Poolside Gear Must-Have Pool Bags to Protect Your Gear Poolside Footwear Quality Beach Towels The Best Poolside Water Bottles Pool Essentials: Goggles, Earplugs, Shoes and Nose Clips Must-Have Pool Bags to Protect Your Gear For poolside or beach outings, the right bag is essential for staying organized. A durable, versatile bag keeps towels, snacks, and valuables secure. From spacious mesh beach bags to waterproof dry bags, our top picks offer practical solutions for any scenario, whether a family beach day or outdoor hiking. Explore our list to find your perfect adventure companion! F-color Mesh Beach Bag The mesh beach bag, available in 13 colors and designs, measures 20.5"L x 16.5"H x 7.9"W, making it spacious enough to hold 6-8 beach towels and other family essentials while weighing less than 1 lb. It features 9 pockets for organized storage, including a splash-proof zippered pocket for valuables like an iPad Air and phones. Its sand-proof bottom prevents water and sand from entering, ensuring items stay clean, while the zip-top design prevents spillage and keeps contents secure. Additionally, the bag includes cushioned straps for comfortable carrying, suitable for various occasions beyond just the beach. Tagitary Mesh Beach Bag with Zipper The extra-large Mesh Beach Bag measures 15.3 x 7.87 x 17.3 inches, offering ample space for essentials with a secure zipper closure. It features 6 exterior pockets, 1 oversized interior pocket, and 1 waterproof pocket for organized storage. Available in a variety of colors, and made of lightweight, high-quality mesh, it is washable, foldable, and allows sand and water to pass through easily. This versatile bag is suitable for picnics, sports, camping, and more, serving as a yoga, gym, toy, picnic, grocery, or nursing bag. Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag Available in 10 colors, Earth Pak is recognized by The NY Times Wirecutter as a top dry bag of 2024 for its durability, reliability, and affordability. It features a classic roll-top design and a five-year warranty. The 10L and 20L bags come with a shoulder strap, while the 30L, 40L, and 55L backpacks have backpack-style straps and a sternum strap for stability. The new 55L model includes a heavy-duty waist belt for load support. Each purchase includes an IPX8-certified waterproof phone case for phones up to 6.5 inches, making it easy to access photos. Its lightweight, compact design allows for easy packing, ensuring valuables stay dry on any adventure. geckobrands Float Phone Dry Bag - Waterproof & Floating Phone Pouch The waterproof bag, available in nine colors, features a clear front and back for texting, taking photos, and browsing social media without removing the phone, supports volume buttons for underwater photography, and includes a lanyard for hands-free carrying, making it ideal for water activities or hiking; it fits most phones up to 7.5 inches tall, 4 inches wide, and 0.5 inches deep, even with cases, and can be submerged up to 10 meters for 30 minutes, meeting IP-67 standards. To ensure effectiveness, securely close the bag, avoid sharp objects, check for damage, and test with tissue paper to confirm the seals are dry before removing the device. Maelstrom Soft Cooler Bag The Maelstrom Icy Hollow Soft-Sided Cooler is lightweight at 1.65 lbs and holds up to 75 cans with ice packs, making it perfect for pool and beach trips. It accommodates various food items like fruits, beer, meat, and seafood for family picnics. With durable double-stitched construction and reinforced pickup points, it can handle heavy loads. The cooler features a top pull tab with a Velcro opening for easy access, ergonomic carrying options, and an integrated bottle opener. It's an ideal companion for camping, hiking, or beach days. IP68 Waterproof Dry Bag, 2L - Roll Top Waterproof Pool Bag The roll-top dry bag, offered in seven colors and featuring an IP68 waterproof rating, is designed for outdoor activities, including paddleboarding and kayaking. It includes a waterproof phone compartment for devices with screens up to seven inches, allowing touchscreen access. Constructed with durable materials, it has upgraded POM buckles and D-rings, a detachable shoulder strap for versatile carrying options, and a multifunctional design suitable for all users. The bag is available in two sizes: a two-liter option in black, orange, white, and yellow, and a five-liter option in black and purple, both including a detachable keychain lanyard. HEETA Waterproof Fanny Pack, Waterproof Waist Pouch Dry Bag The IP68 waterproof pouch, with triple zipper locks and a Velcro closure, withstands depths of 32 feet for one hour, protecting cellphones from water, dirt, and dust. Measuring 9.0" x 6.7", it fits phones, passports, and keys, with an adjustable waist strap for 32.6 to 44.9 inches. Made from durable, lightweight PVC, it weighs 3.6 ounces and serves as a waist pack or cellphone bag, available in various colors. It is touch screen friendly, except for the opaque black version for extra protection. The Best Poolside Footwear Footwear for the pool, such as flip-flops and water shoes, is essential for both comfort and safety. Flip-flops are ideal for easy wearing and relaxing, whereas water shoes offer additional traction and shield your feet from slippery surfaces. With a variety of stylish and fast-drying choices available, you can unwind by the pool or venture out without concern! KEEN Kids Sandals The water sandals provide comfort and convenience with a quick-dry polyester webbing upper and breathable jersey lining. They feature an adjustable hook-and-loop strap for a secure fit, and toddler sizes include a bungee system for extra support. The non-marking rubber outsole prevents indoor imprints, while the EVA midsole offers cushioning. Available in vibrant colors for growing girls, these sandals are made in the USA or imported from Cambodia. Care is easy: machine wash on a gentle cycle and air dry. adidas Adilette Shower Slide Sandal Available in 32 colors, these quick-drying shower slides feature superior cushioning, making them an ideal choice for comfort and convenience. The slip-on upper allows for easy on and off, while the single-bandage textile upper ensures a quick-dry experience. The soft Cloudfoam footbed provides quick-dry comfort underfoot, and the lightweight EVA outsole adds an extra layer of cushioning, enhancing the overall feel of the slides. VIFUUR Water Shoes These water shoes come in various colors and designs, featuring a smooth neck to prevent chafing for easy wear. Made from breathable, stretchy fabrics, they provide a sock-like fit for comfort. The durable rubber outsole protects against sharp objects, making them ideal for activities like yoga, beach outings, swimming, weight training, and more. Available in sizes for kids and adults, they ensure a perfect fit for the whole family. Teva Flip Flops Teva shoes are designed with versatility and comfort in mind, making them ideal for pools and water activities. Featuring quick-drying materials, durable soles with excellent traction, and adjustable straps for a secure fit, they keep you steady on slippery surfaces. Their lightweight design ensures easy movement, while their stylish, functional look transitions seamlessly from poolside to casual outings. Whether you're lounging by the water or chasing adventure, Teva shoes deliver the perfect blend of practicality and style. REEF Beach Flip Flop The Phantom sandals offer comfort and durability for summer adventures. Water-friendly and made with a synthetic nubuck upper, they easily transition from lounging to water activities like surfing. With no break-in period, they feature Reef’s anatomical arch support for all-day comfort. Built with three innovative layers, they include a super-soft foam deck, medium-density midsole for support, and high-density rubber outsole for traction. REEF promotes the beach spirit with the motto: Beach Freely, enjoying comfort in any environment. Crocs Men's Swiftwater Wave Flip Flops The Swiftwater Wave Flip Flops and Sandals for men embody a lightweight, sporty, and adventurous spirit, focusing on comfort and functionality. With a sporty and minimal design, these sandals enable the wearer to navigate through life with ease and agility. Additionally, these water shoes are specifically crafted to be water-friendly, efficiently channeling water away, making them an excellent choice for various water activities. Havaianas Women's Flip Flops The 'Slim' sandal is crafted with both the sole and outer material made of durable rubber, featuring a convenient slip-on closure type. This stylish sandal is designed to be the perfect go-to choice for the Spring/Summer season, boasting a rubber upper that ensures comfort and longevity. The Best Beach Towels When selecting a beach towel, prioritize quick-drying, absorbent materials like microfiber or cotton. Choose oversized options for comfort and vibrant colors or patterns for easy spotting on a busy beach. Opt for lightweight, compact designs for easy carrying and packing. Here are our favorites: Ben Kaufman 100% Cotton Velour Towels - Oversized Luxury Beach Towels Ben Kaufman offers a set of four large luxury beach towels made from 100% cotton velour, designed to be quick-drying and highly absorbent, making them an essential addition to your beach gear. These towels are not only soft and comfortable but also come in various striped colors, measuring 30" x 60". As a small business brand, Ben Kaufman focuses on providing quality products that enhance your beach experience. Dock & Bay Microfiber Towels   Available in 34 designs, these cotton beach towels are ideal for drying off after swimming or sunbathing. Options include two-toned cabanas and multi-colored summer styles. They are sand-free, made from 100% recycled materials (83% polyester, 17% polyamide), and are soft and eco-friendly. Quick-drying and highly absorbent, they dry three times faster than standard cotton towels, preventing unpleasant damp smells. Customers can choose from sizes like the extra-large (78x35"/200x90cm) for sunbathing or a large towel (63x35"/160x190cm) for drying off. Hooded Towels for Kids   Children's hooded towels are available in a range of playful designs showcasing beloved animals, characters, colors, and patterns. They offer warmth and comfort post-bath, making the experience more delightful. Whether your child adores cuddly bears, magical unicorns, or daring dinosaurs, there's an ideal towel for them. Enthusiasts of "Baby Shark" can also find towels featuring this beloved character. With a wide array of options, you can choose a towel that aligns with your child's tastes and brings joy to their daily routine. Personalized Beach Towels A wide range of designs is available for your family, ensuring that there is something to suit everyone's taste and preferences. These towels are not only stylish but also practical, as they are machine washable. This feature guarantees top quality and durability, allowing you to enjoy endless summer fun without worrying about the wear and tear of your towels. Whether you're at the beach, by the pool, or enjoying a picnic in the park, these towels will remain vibrant and functional, making them an essential addition to your summer activities. Arkwright California Cabana Stripe Beach Towel These pool towels, made from high-quality 420GSM 100% ring spun cotton, offer oversized dimensions of 30 x 70 inches for maximum coverage. The California cabana towel features vibrant, yarn-dyed stripes that resist fading, ensuring a stylish addition to beach and pool activities. Soft, absorbent, and quick-drying, these towels are built for durability with reinforced stitching, making them an ideal choice for warm-weather enjoyment. Funny Beach Towels Giraffes snapping selfies with their long necks stretching towards the camera, cats lounging around and sipping on root beer like they’re at a fancy café, and sharks catching some serious waves like they’re the stars of a surf competition - you'll find these designs and more. And let’s not forget about those beloved sitcom characters that always make everyone laugh. So, when it’s time to hit the water, choose a fun towel for your next getaway! The Best Poolside Water Bottles Personal water bottles are essential for hydration and a healthy lifestyle at home or outdoors. They provide convenient access to water, reduce single-use plastics, and promote sustainability. Available in various styles and materials, with features like insulation and spill-proof lids, they meet diverse needs. Whether for gym sessions or road trips, a reliable water bottle supports health and environmental priorities. Personalized Water Bottles   Keep your hydration stylish with a chic bottle designed for your preferred drink. These 24 oz. Powder-coated water bottles are crafted from stainless steel and feature double-walled insulation, ensuring your beverage remains hot for 12 hours and cold for 24 hours. The wide mouth opening allows for easy ice filling and cleaning. Stanley Quencher H2.0 FlowState The H2.0 FlowState tumbler keeps beverages cold, iced, or hot for hours with its double-wall vacuum insulation, reducing refill needs. Available in 34 colors and sizes from 14oz to 64oz, it fits most car cup holders (except the 64oz). The FlowState lid has three positions: a straw opening, a drink opening, and a full-cover top, all with a splash-resistant seal, plus an ergonomic handle for easy carrying. Made from 90% recycled BPA-free stainless steel, it promotes sustainability and durability, minimizing single-use plastic reliance. It's also dishwasher safe for easy cleaning, unlike plastic alternatives. Hydro Flask Water Bottle   The 32 oz Wide Mouth insulated water bottle from Hydro Flask features a leakproof Flex Straw Cap for easy filling and sipping, keeping drinks cold for up to 24 hours thanks to its double-wall vacuum insulation. The durable pro-grade stainless steel ensures a pure taste without flavor transfer, while the dishwasher-safe design allows for effortless cleaning and maintenance, ensuring the bottle remains vibrant and ready for use. YETI Rambler 30 oz Stainless Steel Vacuum Insulated Tumbler The double-wall insulated tumblers feature an 18/8 stainless steel body, keeping beverages at the desired temperature during rugged use. They include the YETI MagSlider Lid, which uses magnets for added spill protection, though it is not leakproof. Designed for convenience, these BPA-free tumblers are dishwasher safe and have a No no-no-sweat design to keep hands dry. The durable Duracoat finish enhances grip without cracking or fading. At 7 5/8 inches high with a 4-inch lip diameter, the YETI 30 oz Rambler Tumbler fits standard cup holders, making it perfect for any adventure. CamelBak Eddy+ Kids Water Bottle   Choose from 12 exciting designs. This product features a convenient and innovative design for a smooth drinking experience, allowing you to easily flip, bite, and sip your favorite drinks through a straw. It boasts double wall vacuum insulation, keeping beverages at their desired temperature for longer, whether hot or cold. Constructed from sturdy 18/8 stainless steel, it ensures durability and resistance to wear, making it a dependable option for daily use. The design includes a leak-proof mechanism when closed to prevent spills and is spill-proof when open for easy sipping. Its comfortable carry handle enhances portability, making it ideal for taking drinks on the go, whether to work, the gym, or a day outdoors. Contigo Cortland Chill 2.0 Vacuum-Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle The AUTOSEAL button allows for 100% spill-proof, one-handed drinking, automatically sealing the spout when the button is released, ensuring a mess-free experience. The double-wall vacuum-insulated stainless steel construction keeps beverages cold for up to 24 hours and hot for 6 hours, providing versatility for any drink preference. A spout cover protects against dirt and grime, while a button lock prevents accidental popping of the cover. Additionally, the integrated carry handle enhances portability, making it convenient to take the bottle on the go. Infusion Pro 32 oz Fruit Infuser Water Bottle with Time Marker The 32 oz. The water bottle with fruit infuser is made from durable, BPA-free Tritan plastic, ensuring it is food-safe and non-toxic. It features a dust-proof, leak-proof spout for easy pouring, and a neoprene sleeve to maintain cold temperatures and reduce sweating. Dishwasher safe on the top rack, its top-loading infuser design keeps fruits submerged for bold flavors. The bottle, ideal for sports and outdoor activities, includes silicone O-rings, a rugged strap, and a locking lid for a leak-proof experience. It comes in a gift box with an eBook of recipes, making it a great gift. A lifetime guarantee is offered for customer satisfaction. Pool Essentials: Goggles, Earplugs, Shoes and Nose Clips Goggles, earplugs, and nose clips improve comfort and enjoyment in water activities. Goggles protect your eyes, earplugs prevent water from entering your ears, and nose clips keep water out of your nose. These essentials ensure a safer and more confident experience at the pool or beach. Speedo Kids’ Goggles   Available in 11 colors, these kids' goggles (ages 6-14) offer crystal clear vision with anti-fog lenses and UVA/UVB protection. High-quality seals prevent leaks, silicone frames enhance comfort, and a split head strap ensures a snug fit. They are latex-free for sensitive skin. Speedo Unisex Adult Swim Goggles Hydrosity Available in seven colors, this product is made from 50% polycarbonate, 30% silicone, and 20% plastic. It features the G.O. FIT System for a comfortable middle eye fit, with a gasket resting within the eye orbital. The mirrored finish reduces glare, ideal for outdoor use. The one-piece soft frame and low-profile design with split silicone straps enhance comfort. It offers anti-fog and UV protection, is PVC and latex-free, and fits most individuals aged 14 and older. Kids Snorkel Set This snorkel set, available in 15 colors, features durable tempered glass, and impact-resistant construction for safety, and is suitable for ages 5 to 15. It includes an adjustable strap, a soft silicone skirt for a waterproof seal, an advanced dry top system to prevent water intake, a purge valve for easy clearing, an anti-fog lens with a 180-degree view, and a food-grade silicone mouthpiece. Mack's AquaBlock Swimming Earplugs, 3-Pair Mack's is the leading brand for preventing ear infections like swimmer's ear and Surfer's Ear and is the #1 doctor-recommended choice, also serving as the official earplugs of USA Swimming. These earplugs are designed for extreme comfort with pre-molded, flanged SuperSeal Ultra Soft Silicone, featuring a unique Flex Stem and triple flange design for a customized fit and effective water protection. They are washable, reusable, and latex-free, made from high-quality silicone, and come with durable storage cases, such as Mack’s AquaBlock, to keep water out. All products are backed by a satisfaction guarantee. Swimming Nose Clip, 14 Packs Swim Nose Plugs with Waterproof Silica Gel The swim nose clips are made from premium soft silicone and PC plastic, ensuring safety and skin compatibility. They are environmentally friendly, comfortable, and fit snugly to prevent falling off. Their elasticity maintains shape after repeated use, providing confidence during wear. The ergonomic design contours to the nose bridge, preventing water entry and protecting against dirt while remaining waterproof and secure. Suitable for all ages, the Hurdilen 14 pack is ideal for swimming and surfing, though not recommended for children under seven due to size. Each pack includes 14 colors that won't fade underwater. Hurdilen offers excellent customer service, including a full refund if unsatisfied, making this nose clip set a valuable addition to any swimming gear. Speedo Unisex-Youth Swim Cap Silicone Junior Available in three colors, this swim cap is specifically designed for smaller swimmers. It features a silicone material that provides excellent stretch for an optimal fit, while its hydrodynamic design creates a streamlined profile in the water, effectively reducing drag. The easy on-and-off design prevents hair snagging, ensuring a comfortable experience, and it is also free from latex, making it a safe choice for those with latex sensitivities. Conclusion Packing for an indoor waterpark vacation can be a breeze with the right products. From towels and safety gear to snacks, water bottles, and bags, these 30+ must-have Amazon products will keep your family comfortable, entertained, and prepared for hours of water-filled fun. Don’t forget to double-check your list and enjoy your getaway to the fullest! Pin for Later:

Experience gifts are my favorite. These unforgettable experiences give loved ones bucket list moments to share and memories that last a lifetime. Here are our top 24 experience gifts for adventure lovers! The Best Gifts for Adventure Lovers Dollywood Theme Park 1. Tickets or Season Passes to a Theme Park Treat the family to a day filled with roller coasters, games, and treats at a local or famous amusement park like Disney, Legoland, Universal Studios, Busch Gardens, or a local park. Purchase Theme Park Tickets: Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee Disneyland California LA Universal Studios Legoland California Universal Orlando Tickets Sea World Orlando Tickets Aquatica Orlando Legoland Florida Tickets Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Busch Gardens Virginia Nickelodeon Universe Minnesota Silver Dollar City Branson, Missouri American Dream: Nickelodeon Universe Theme Park Ticket, New Jersey Light Family Hot Air Balloon Ride 2. Hot Air Balloon Ride Flying in a hot air balloon is one of the most memorable family adventures we've ever enjoyed. Take the family to new heights with a serene hot air balloon ride over scenic landscapes or a bustling city. Purchase Hot Air Balloon tickets in your area or your next vacation destination. Glamping in the Smoky Mountains 3. Camping or Glamping Weekend Escape to the great outdoors for a weekend of camping, bonfires, and stargazing in a national park or local campsite. Discover our favorite Glamping Destinations here. Ice Skating 4. Ice Skating Passes Take the family to a local ice skating rink for a day of gliding around the ice or even trying out figure skating or ice hockey. Purchase Ice Skating Tickets in your area or your upcoming destination. 5. Escape Room Experience Put your family’s problem-solving skills to the test with an exciting escape room challenge, perfect for teamwork and mystery-solving. Purchase Escape Room tickets at your destination. Horseback Riding with 37 North in Arkansas 6. Horseback Riding Take the family on a scenic horseback ride through the countryside, a forest trail, or a beachside path for a memorable adventure. Purchase Horseback Riding tickets at your destination. Vegas Indoor Skydiving 7. Indoor Skydiving Give the thrill of flight with an indoor skydiving experience that simulates the feeling of jumping from an airplane—no jumping out required. Purchase Indoor Skydiving tickets at your destination. Gokarts 8. Go-Kart Racing Challenge each other to a race on go-karts for a fast-paced, competitive family outing that’s bound to get your adrenaline pumping. Purchase Go-Kart Tickets at your destination. Snow Tubing 9. Snow Tubing During the winter months, treat the family to an exciting day of snow tubing on a local mountain or resort. Purchase Snow Tubing Tickets in your area or your upcoming destination. Flying Over Christmas Lights in Small Airplanes 10. Take a Helicopter Ride or Small Plane Ride Over Christmas Lights Experience the thrill of flying over Christmas Lights, the city, countryside, or coastline with a family helicopter tour, providing spectacular aerial views. Purchase Helicopter and Airplane Rides at your destination. 11. Rock Climbing Experience Whether indoors or outdoors, rock climbing offers a fun, challenging, and physical activity that everyone can enjoy together. Purchase Rock Climbing experiences at your destination. 12. Scavenger Hunt Set up a custom scavenger hunt in your town or city, with clues and challenges leading the family to explore and solve mysteries together. Purchase Scavenger Hunt tickets at your destination. 13. Guided Fishing Trip Head to a nearby lake or river for a day of fishing, where everyone can relax by the water and try their hand at catching some fish. Purchase Fishing Excursions at your destination. Smoky Mountain Zipline Adventure 14. Zip Line Adventure / Ropes Course Take the family ziplining through the treetops for a thrilling experience that offers both excitement and beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. Purchase Zip Line Adventure/ Ropes Course tickets at your destination. 15. Indoor Trampoline Park Bounce into fun with a day spent at an indoor trampoline park, where the whole family can jump, flip, and laugh together. Purchase Trampoline tickets at your destination. Durango & Silverton Train 16. Train Ride Hop on a scenic train ride through mountains, forests, or countryside to enjoy stunning views and a relaxing family experience. Skiing 17. Skiing or Snowboarding For winter sports lovers, a skiing or snowboarding trip to the mountains can be the perfect way to spend quality time together. Purchase skiing and snowboarding tickets for your destination. Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride in St. Louis 18. Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride Take a leisurely horse-drawn carriage ride through a charming neighborhood, park, or historic district for a slow, picturesque family outing. Purchase a Carriage Ride at your destination. 19. Attend a Sports Game Take the family to a live sports game, whether it is football, basketball, baseball, or soccer, and enjoy the excitement of cheering for your team. Purchase Game Tickets on Ticketmaster. Lemur Encounter 20. Experience an Animal Encounter Many zoos and wildlife parks offer animal encounters as part of their educational programming. Some of these experiences are truly unforgettable. Feed lemurs, sloths, and giraffes. Ride a camel. Swim with dolphins or penguins. Purchase animal adventure tickets near you. Bonne Terre Mines in Missouri 21. Explore a Cave Take a family trip to explore a local cave system, where you can marvel at the underground world of stalactites and stalagmites. Purchase Cave Adventure tickets at your destination. 22. Concert Tickets Arrange a private performance by a local band, or musician, or even a virtual concert that you and your family can enjoy together at home. Purchase concert tickets on Ticketmaster. Ice Castles in Minnesota 23. Ice Castles One cherished winter memory for our family was the trip to Minnesota to experience the enchanting Ice Castle. This winter wonderland felt like a fairytale offering a frozen maze, slides, tunnels, archways, and caverns serving as a delightful winter playground. Learn more about Ice Castles. Rush Mountain in South Dakota 24. A Thrill Ride or Mountain Coaster Mountain Coasters are one of my girls' favorite things to do in the mountains, and it all started with their first-ever mountain coaster ride on Rocky Top Mountain Coaster  in the Smokies! Riders control their speed on a silent track as they ride down the mountain. This smooth, scenic ride is one of our favorite mountain thrills. You may ride during the day or at night when the track is colorfully lit. Purchase mountain coaster tickets for your destination. Do you have any additional ideas to contribute to our list? Kindly share your suggestions in the comments section. Pin for Later:

Planning a road trip? Whether you're traveling with family, friends, or solo, keeping your car organized is key to a smooth and stress-free journey. From cluttered backseats to misplaced essentials, a messy car can quickly turn your dream trip into a chaotic experience. Thankfully, Amazon offers a variety of affordable and efficient car organization products to keep everything in place. Check out these must-have road trip essentials! This post includes Amazon affiliate links, and if you choose to make a purchase, I might earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your support! 1. Backseat Car Organizer A backseat organizer with multiple compartments is perfect for storing snacks, books, tablets, and travel essentials. Many options come with clear tablet holders, insulated pockets, and even trash bins to keep everything tidy. 2. All-in-One Car Trash Can Maintain a clean and tidy vehicle with style. The adjustable tissue holder is crafted to fit any size tissue box. This versatile design ensures your vehicle stays clean and provides easy access to tissues while driving. 3. Car Organizer with Built-In Leakproof Car Cooler The HOTOR car trunk organizer offers an extensive 69L of storage space, featuring 2 spacious compartments, a built-in cooler bag, and 7 extra pockets. This trunk organizer helps you keep items like groceries, tools, and sports equipment neatly arranged. Experience a clean, clutter-free trunk on every journey. 4. Drop Stop - Seat Gap Filler Drop Stop offers complete Gap Coverage around and behind the seat belt catch, connecting seamlessly through a built-in slot that moves with the seat, eliminating the need for readjustment or reinstallation. Featured on Shark Tank, Drop Stop effectively prevents the bothersome and potentially hazardous gap between your vehicle's seat and center console, ensuring a safer and more convenient driving experience. 5. Car Visor Organizer This visor organizer enhances your car's storage capacity, keeping essential items easily accessible while driving. It features a large zipped compartment, a deep mesh slip pocket, five card holders, a glasses clip, and a pen clip. Ideal for storing cards, licenses, documents, phones, earphones, cables, sunglasses, charger cords, pens, CDs, and more. 6. Portable Car Vacuum Cleaner The Fanttik V8 Apex car vacuum is a compact, cordless 4-in-1 device ideal for detailing car interiors and indoor cleaning tasks like office desks and keyboards. It includes ten accessories, such as a crevice nozzle, flexible hose, push-in brush, and specialized brushes for multi-surface cleaning and pet hair removal, to accommodate vacuuming, blowing, inflating, and pumping needs. 7. Hanging Car Hooks The car seat back double hook hanger helps you keep your car tidy by allowing you to hang various items. It serves as a hanger for your purse or grocery bags and can also hold your phone, letting you organize your belongings and watch videos hands-free. 8. Console Organizer The center console organizer is designed to fit the 2022-2025 Tundra, including SR, SR5, Limited, Platinum, TRD Pro, 1794 Edition, and Capstone models, as well as the 2023-2025 Sequoia. It is suitable for full center console models with bucket seats only and is not compatible with 40/20/40 bench seat models or a center console safe. 9. Drink Caddy Be it office coffee runs, food deliveries, or drink orders, you can guarantee that your co-workers, customers, and even friends will be impressed by the quality and design of our drink carrier with a handle. 10. Over-the-Seat Tablet Holder When you use the articulating arm, you'll find it easy to pull out or retract, making it simple for kids to operate. You can twist the arm at different angles to change the viewing distance, enhancing your entertainment experience with family and friends. Easy installation takes only 6 seconds without tools. The 360-degree rotating ball allows you to find the best viewing angle, helping to avoid neck pain. Final Thoughts An organized car makes road trips more enjoyable and stress-free. These Amazon products are game-changers for keeping your vehicle tidy and ensuring you have everything you need within reach. Click the links above to shop your road trip essentials today and get ready for a clutter-free adventure! What’s your go-to car organization hack for road trips? Let us know in the comments below! Our Favorite Road Trip Tips: The BEST Travel Games for Road Trips Best Audiobooks for Family Road Trips: Age-by-Age Guide 10 Must-Have Amazon Products to Keep Your Car Organized on a Road Trip Snackle Box: The Ultimate Road Trip Essential for Happy Traveling The Best Noise-Canceling Headphones for Kids when Traveling 20 Must-Read Books for Your Ultimate USA Travel Bucket List How to Create a USA Travel Vision Board for Nature Lovers 21 Tips for Packing Light on Your Next Trip 24 Best Travel Journals: Beautiful Options for Adventurers [Complete Guide] Pin for Later:

There's nothing quite like a road trip to bring the family together. But let’s be real—fitting gear, luggage, and food into one vehicle can test your Tetris master skills. A recent travel survey even found that 68% of families struggle with luggage space on those long drives. That’s where cargo carriers come to the rescue! As a family of six, we’ve hit the road for countless cross-country adventures, and I can’t stress enough how much our cargo carrier and extra hitch storage have made packing a breeze. It’s been a game-changer for our travels. In this ultimate guide, we'll walk you through the top 5 cargo carriers that will transform your cross-country journey from chaotic to seamless. As a family that's logged thousands of miles on the open road, we know exactly what makes a cargo carrier worth its weight in gold. Choose the Best Cargo Carrier for Your Road Trip: #1: Thule Force XT Rooftop Cargo Box: Best Durability This vehicle cargo carrier is simple to install and operate. It is well-built with strong latches and locks. Features and Benefits 16 cubic feet of extra packing space Engineered to fit a variety of vehicles with optimal space efficiency The quick-mount system "clicks" to indicate the box is securely and correctly mounted Opens on both sides for convenient access to all parts of the box from either side of the vehicle External dimensions: 74.75 x 33 x 18 inches Internal dimensions: 70 x 28.75 x 16.25 inches Load capacity: 165 lbs; Product weight: 41 lbs Price Range: $700-850 #2: ROLA Wallaroo Cargo Bag: Best Budget Option The ROLA Wallaroo Cargo Bag increases your vehicle's storage space, expanding from 9.5 cubic feet to 11.5 cubic feet when unzipped. Constructed from high-quality, rainproof material with sonically welded seams, this carrier ensures your cargo remains dry, clean, and protected. It securely attaches to hitch-mount cargo trays and baskets using a six-strap system. Features and Benefits Multiple zippers allow the bag to expand from 9.5 to 11.5 cubic feet. Expandable storage: Optimize your vehicle's capacity with a hitch tray cargo bag that extends from 9.5 cubic feet to 11.5 cubic feet by opening the additional zipper. Rainproof material: Made from premium, rainproof material with sonically welded seams, this bag keeps your belongings dry, clean, and safe. Universal fit: The 6 straps on this carrier provide a secure and stable attachment to the hitch-mount cargo tray and baskets. Collapsible design: The soft sides of the ROLA Wallaroo Cargo bag make it easy to fold and store conveniently when not in use. Constructed from high-quality rainproof material with sonically sealed seams. Un-expanded dimensions: 9.2" L x 11.6" W x 5.7" H, expanded dimensions: 48” L x 19” W x 22” H Price Range: Under $50 #3: JEGS Rooftop Cargo Carrier for Car Storage: Best Latching System This rooftop features a convenient 3-point latching system and rear opening for easy access, and it requires no tools for assembly and installation. Features and Benefits Available in 18 cubic ft. and 10 cubic ft. sizes. HDPE plastic hard shell cargo carrier for vehicles; features spacious interior dimensions and an aerodynamic design to enhance fuel efficiency. Provides weatherproof storage for your luggage with a four-corner locking system, front latch, and weather-tight seal to ensure maximum protection and security on your car's rooftop. Facilitates easy and convenient loading and unloading from the rear of the car. Tool-free, simple assembly and installation. Comes with all necessary mounting hardware and straightforward instructions for quick and safe road readiness Manufactured in the USA, with a limited lifetime guarantee. Price Range: $300-350 #4: Yakima SkyBox Carbonite Cargo Box: Best Sleek Design for Fuel Efficiency The SkyBox 16 Carbonite Cargo Box is a top-notch rooftop cargo container providing ample storage space, ideal for road trips, family holidays, and outdoor excursions. Designed for ease, it features a tool-free installation, allowing you to quickly attach it to your vehicle's roof rack and be on your way in no time. The sleek, aerodynamic Carbonite textured lid minimizes drag and wind noise, improving fuel efficiency. Made from high-quality, weather-resistant materials, the SkyBox keeps your belongings safe and dry, regardless of the weather. Features and Benefits Sleek, low-profile design 12, 16, 18, and 21 cubic feet options available Dual-side opening mechanism Fits most roof rack systems Includes SKS lock system Mounts in minutes without tools Price Range: $750-1000 #5: MaxxHaul Aluminum Cargo Carrier: Best For Camp Gear Maxxtow cargo carriers are designed to securely carry your extra cargo with maximum safety. Constructed from heavy-duty steel with a robust powder coat finish or rust-resistant aluminum, each carrier is built for long-lasting, worry-free use. This carrier is useful for coolers, luggage, firewood, etc. Features and Benefits Constructed from lightweight aluminum Platform dimensions: 53" x 19" Supports up to 500 pounds Foldable design for convenient storage Comes with a cargo net for extra security Resistant to rust and weather conditions Price Range: $90-115 Finding the right cargo carrier can add ease to packing for a road trip. By considering your specific needs, vehicle type, and budget, you'll discover the perfect travel companion that keeps your belongings safe, secure, and easily accessible. Pin for Later:

Wisconsin is famous for cheese, the Green Bay Packers, fabulous waterparks , and a truly one-of-a-kind must-see attraction. Tucked in Spring Green, Wisconsin's forests is  House on the Rock , one of the most unique and unusual attractions in the United States. Featuring impressive architectural design, seemingly endless collections of kitsch, memorabilia, and truly unique artifacts, this museum offers an unforgettable experience. House on the Rock is a great experience for guests of all ages. The Fascinating History of House on the Rock House on the Rock was created by Alex Jordan Jr., a visionary artist and architect who started its construction in the 1940s. Initially intended as his retreat, the estate gradually expanded into the extensive complex filled with curiosities, antiques, and vast themed rooms that it is known for today. It stands as one of Wisconsin's most visited attractions. Legend has it that Jordan built the house after being rejected by renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright, whose Taliesin estate is located less than ten miles away. Since opening to the public in 1960, the House on the Rock is one of Wisconisin's most popular attractions inviting visitors to explore its kitschy collection of the peculiar and fantastical. Featuring towering suits of armor and whimsical circus displays, the House on the Rock is brimming with endless collections of the bizarre and intriguing. There are rooms dedicated to coin-operated music machines, intricate dioramas, antiques, and memorabilia. Every corner reveals something new. What to Expect When You Visit House on the Rock is divided into three sections , each offering a unique experience. You can choose to explore all three or select specific areas based on your interest. Section 1: The Original House Self-guided tours begin in the original house, perched atop a rocky outcrop with beautiful views of the surrounding countryside and forest. It's easy to understand why this was an ideal location for the large house. Low ceilings, dim lighting, and labyrinth-like hallways give it a cozy but mysterious atmosphere. The rooms are filled with stained glass, intricate woodwork, and unique furniture that seems to grow out of the walls. Section 2: The Highlights Tour The world-famous Infinity Room is a glass-walled corridor that stretches 218 feet into the open air, creating a lifesize optical illusion. The Music of Yesterday , is a collection of intricate "self-playing instruments," playing haunting music. The Carousel Room houses the world’s largest indoor carousel, adorned with over 20,000 lights, and 269 hand-carved animals, but no horses—only exotic and mythical creatures. This massive indoor carousel is perhaps the most iconic aspect of the House on the Rock. Unlike traditional carousels, this one cannot be ridden, but its spectacle alone makes the visit worthwhile. With ethereal music, glowing lights, and fairytale creatures, this is a truly extraordinary carousel. The Streets of Yesterday is a recreation of an early 20th-century American town, featuring cobblestone streets, antique storefronts, and dimly lit alleyways featuring storefronts and businesses. Section 3: The Warehouse and Themed Displays The Organ Room is a towering labyrinth of pipes, gears, and keyboards, offering a captivating industrial aesthetic. Additionally, one of the most iconic exhibits inside the House on the Rock is its extensive collection of self-playing musical instruments. These mechanical orchestras occupy entire rooms, emitting an otherworldly sound as violins, pianos, and drums play seemingly autonomously. The Circus Room is a showcase of miniature circus displays, antique calliopes, and carnival memorabilia, evoking the charm and excitement of a bygone era. The Doll Carousel is a slightly eerie collection of thousands of dolls arranged in a spinning, glowing carousel. The Spirit of Aviation showcases vintage aircraft models and aviation-themed decor, celebrating the golden age of flight. The Heritage of the Sea is a multi-level room featuring a gigantic 200-foot-long sea creature engaged in a battle with a colossal ship, looming over visitors as if rising from the depths. This exhibit also features maritime memorabilia, model ships, and mechanical displays of oceanic adventures. The Japanese Garden is a tranquil outdoor escape within the attraction, complete with koi ponds, pagodas, and lush landscaping. The Galleries of Strange Collections showcases everything from automated dioramas and coin-operated fortune tellers to intricate model ships and vintage weaponry. Tips for Visiting House on the Rock Plan for a Half-Day Visit : If you want to experience all three sections, expect to spend 3-5 hours exploring. Wear Comfortable Shoes : The attraction involves extensive walking, including uneven floors and tight spaces. Arrive Early : To avoid crowds, consider visiting early in the day or during weekdays. Be Prepared for Sensory Overload : House on the Rock is known for its dim lighting, loud music, and overwhelming displays, which can be intense for some visitors. Bring a Camera : Note that flash photography is not allowed in some areas of the museum, but you will want to capture as many memories as possible. Visit in the Fall : Autumn is an ideal time to visit, as the surrounding Wisconsin foliage adds to the beauty of the experience. Check for Seasonal Events : House on the Rock hosts special holiday events, including Christmas displays and themed activities. Nearby Attractions in Spring Green, Wisconsin Taliesin: Frank Lloyd Wright Home in Wisconsin If you’re visiting House on the Rock , you might also want to check out: Taliesin : Frank Lloyd Wright’s famous home and studio, offering guided tours and insight into his architectural genius. American Players Theatre : A renowned outdoor Shakespearean theater, perfect for literature and drama lovers. Governor Dodge State Park : Ideal for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying nature with stunning rock formations and scenic trails. The Wisconsin River : A great spot for canoeing, kayaking, and taking in breathtaking waterfront views. Spring Green General Store : A charming cafe and shop known for delicious food and unique gifts. Final Thoughts: Is House on the Rock Worth Visiting? House on the Rock is a favorite Wisconsin attraction for our family. If you're fascinated by quirky collections, unique architecture, or unusual attractions, this is a must-see destination. Pin for Later:

I love to create travel vision boards, both digitally on Pinterest and Canva and physically on paper. Travel vision boards are a wonderful way to organize bucket list adventures and bring our travel goals to life. Our family loves spending time in nature, hiking in national parks, observing wildlife, and soaking in breathtaking landscapes throughout the U.S. Vision Boards help simplify my planning by organizing must-see locations, the best times of year to visit, and ideal plans to bring adventure to life. Quick How To Create a Travel Vision Board: Supplies for your travel vision board Recommended resources Nature-inspired Ideas How to stay inspired and make your vision a reality Supplies You’ll Need for Your Travel Vision Board To create a physical vision board, gather the following: A board  – Corkboard, poster board, or a digital vision board ( Pinterest or Canva) Travel magazines or printed images  – Find photos of national parks, scenic drives, wildlife, and outdoor adventures Inspirational quotes  – Words that capture the spirit of exploration and adventure Maps & stickers  – Highlight the places you want to visit Personal travel goals  – Write down destinations, hikes, or experiences you want to accomplish Recommended Resources from Amazon To make your vision board even better, check out these helpful resources: National Geographic’s 100 Parks, 5000 Ideas 🏕 National Geographic’s 100 Parks, 5000 Ideas  – A must-have book for national park inspiration. Scratch-Off USA National Parks Map 🗺 Scratch-Off USA National Parks Map  – Keep track of the parks you’ve visited and add to your board! The Bucket List: USA   📖 The Bucket List: USA  – Perfect for road trip ideas and outdoor adventure goals. Cork Board and Push Pins 📌 Cork Board and Push Pins  – Great for physically pinning your dream destinations. Travel-Themed Stickers 🖼 Travel-Themed Stickers  – Fun for decorating your board with scenic icons and quotes. Top Nature-Inspired Ideas for Your Travel Vision Board Yellowstone National Park 1. National Park Bucket List The U.S. is home to 63 national parks , each with stunning landscapes. Add pictures of: Yellowstone National Park (Wyoming, Montana, Idaho)  – Geysers, hot springs, and abundant wildlife. Yosemite National Park (California)  – Iconic granite cliffs and waterfalls. Great Smoky Mountains National Park (Tennessee, North Carolina)  – Lush forests and picturesque hiking paths, along with bears, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife. Glacier National Park (Montana)  – Jaw-dropping mountain views and pristine lakes. Grand Canyon National Park (Arizona)  – One of the world’s greatest natural wonders. Hiking Cumberland Gap 2. Iconic Hiking Trails If you love hiking, include photos of famous trails  like: Cumberland Gap National Historical Park Trail (Kentucky, Tennessee, Virginia)  – Once a passage for westward expansion, this moderate trail system spans various lengths, with the Wilderness Road Trail stretching 8.5 miles through historic terrain. Appalachian Trail (East Coast, USA)  – Established in 1937, this legendary 2,198-mile trail runs from Georgia to Maine, offering strenuous terrain with a cumulative elevation gain equivalent to climbing Mt. Everest 16 times. Bright Angel Trail (Grand Canyon, Arizona)  – Originally used by the Havasupai people, this difficult 9.5-mile (one-way) trail descends 4,380 feet from the South Rim to the Colorado River, requiring careful planning due to extreme heat and elevation changes. Pacific Crest Trail (West Coast, USA)  – Spanning 2,650 miles from Mexico to Canada, this strenuous long-distance trail, completed in 1993, traverses diverse landscapes from desert to alpine peaks, with thru-hikers taking about 5 months to complete it. Angels Landing (Zion National Park, Utah)  – Known for its thrilling ridge with sheer drop-offs, this 5.4-mile hike gains 1,488 feet in elevation, dating back to 1926, when the National Park Service constructed the now-famous chain-assisted path. Synchronous Fireflies in Great Smoky Mountains National Park   3. Dream Wildlife Encounters Spotting wildlife in its natural habitat  is a dream for many nature lovers. Include images of: Synchronous Fireflies in Great Smoky Mountains National Park   Bison and bears in Yellowstone Bears in the Smoky Mountains Grizzly bears in Alaska Bison in Custer State Park Elk in the Rocky Mountains and Grand Tetons Sea turtles and dolphins in Florida’s coastal waters Whale watching in the Pacific Northwest Buck Atoms on Route 66 4. Stunning Scenic Drives If you love road trips, feature scenic U.S. drives , such as: Blue Ridge Parkway (Virginia, North Carolina)  – A picturesque mountain drive Pacific Coast Highway (California)  – Stunning ocean views along the coast Going-to-the-Sun Road (Montana)  – A breathtaking drive through Glacier National Park Route 66  – A classic American road trip full of history and adventure Whitewater Rafting: Great Smoky Mountains 5. Adventure Activities If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, add images of exciting activities , like: Kayaking in the Everglades (Florida) Camping under the stars in Joshua Tree (California) Skiing in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains White water rafting in one of many National Parks Hot air ballooning in New Mexico Snorkeling in Hawaii’s coral reefs How to Stay Inspired & Make Your Vision a Reality Display Your Vision Board  – Keep it somewhere visible, like your bedroom or office, so you stay motivated. Set Travel Goals  – Write down specific goals, like "Visit 5 national parks this year" or "Hike the Grand Canyon in 2025." Create a Travel Fund  – Start saving for your dream trips by setting aside a little money each month. Plan Your First Trip  – Choose a realistic  destination from your vision board and start researching flights, accommodations, and activities. Use Pinterest or a Digital Vision Board  – If you prefer online inspiration, create a Pinterest travel board  or use Canva to design a digital collage. A USA travel vision board for nature lovers  is an exciting way to bring your outdoor dreams to life! Whether you want to explore national parks, hike scenic trails, or experience breathtaking wildlife , this board will keep you motivated to plan and take action. This post includes Amazon affiliate links, and if you choose to make a purchase, I might earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your support! What’s on your nature travel vision board? Share your dream destinations in the comments! Pin for Later:

Ever noticed how a great story can make a long road trip fly by? According to the Audiobook Publishers Association, a whopping 87% of parents report that audiobooks keep their children entertained longer during road trips than music or movies. Whether you're planning a quick weekend getaway or an epic cross-country adventure, we've got your family's listening needs covered. Table of Contents: Best Family Audiobooks Age 3-6: Early Listeners Age 7-9: Building Confidence Age 10-12: Adventure Seekers Age 13+: Teen Listeners Age 3-6: Early Listeners Audiobook Recommendations Bedtime Stories & Calming Collections (5-15 minutes each): " Goodnight Moon " by Margaret Wise Brown - 5 minutes " The Snowy Day " by Ezra Jack Keats - 7 minutes " If You Give a Mouse a Cookie " series by Laura Numeroff - 10 minutes each " Pete the Cat " collection by James Dean - 8 minutes each " The Very Hungry Caterpillar & Other Stories " by Eric Carle - 15 minutes Adventure Stories (10-20 minutes): " Dragons Love Tacos " by Adam Rubin - 12 minutes " The Gruffalo " by Julia Donaldson - 10 minutes " How Do Dinosaurs Say Goodnight? " series - 8 minutes each " Little Blue Truck " series by Alice Schertle - 10 minutes each Early Chapter Books (30-120 minutes): " Ramona the Pest " by Beverly Cleary - 2 hours 35 minutes " Henry and Mudge Collection " by Cynthia Rylant - 1 hour each " Frog and Toad Audio Collection " by Arnold Lobel - 1 hour 15 minutes " Magic Tree House Books 1-8 " by Mary Pope Osborne - 1 hour each " Mercy Watson Series " by Kate DiCamillo - 45 minutes each " Flat Stanley " by Jeff Brown - 1 hour 30 minutes " Nate the Great " series by Marjorie Weinman Sharmat - 30 minutes each " Fancy Nancy " series by Jane O'Connor - 45 minutes each Age 7-9 Building Confidence Audiobook Recommendations Classic Adventures (2-4 hours each): " James and the Giant Peach " by Roald Dahl - 3 hours 18 minutes " Stuart Little " by E.B. White - 2 hours 30 minutes " Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH " by Robert C. O'Brien - 6 hours 13 minutes " The Cricket in Times Square " by George Selden - 2 hours 35 minutes " The Trumpet of the Swan " by E.B. White - 4 hours 20 minutes Modern Series (3-6 hours each): " Ivy & Bean " series by Annie Barrows - 1 hour 15 minutes each " Wings of Fire " series by Tui T. Sutherland - 8 hours each " The Secret Zoo " by Bryan Chick - 6 hours 18 minutes Mystery Series (2-4 hours each): " Encyclopedia Brown " series by Donald J. Sobol - 1 hour 30 minutes each "Cam Jansen" series by David A. Adler - 1 hour each " The Boxcar Children " series - 2 hours 30 minutes each " Nancy Drew " series by Carolyn Keene - 1 hour 45 minutes each " A to Z Mysteries " by Ron Roy - 1 hour each Age 10-12 Adventure Seekers Audiobook Recommendations Epic Fantasy Series: " Keeper of the Lost Cities " by Shannon Messenger - 12 hours each " The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe " by C.S. Lewis- 4 hours 22 minutes " Harry Potter " series by J.K. Rowling - 8-12 hours each " Percy Jackson " series by Rick Riordan- 12 hours each " Artemis Fowl " series by Eoin Colfer - 8 hours each " The Land of Stories " by Chris Colfer - 10 hours each Science Fiction Adventures: " The Wild Robot " series by Peter Brown - 4 hours each " The Mysterious Benedict Society " by Trenton Lee Stewart - 13 hours each " The One and Only Ivan " series by Katherine Applegate - 3 hours 45 minutes each Historical Fiction: " Number the Stars " by Lois Lowry - 2 hours 46 minutes " Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry " by Mildred D. Taylor - 8 hours 30 minutes " Island of the Blue Dolphins " by Scott O'Dell - 6 hours 17 minutes " The Watsons Go to Birmingham - 1963 " by Christopher Paul Curtis - 5 hours " Because of Winn-Dixie " by Kate DiCamillo - 3 hours 30 minutes Age 13+ Teen Audiobook Recommendations Classic Literature: " The Count of Monte Cristo " by Alexandre Dumas - 17 hours 28 minutes " The Hunchback of Notre Dame " by Victor Hugo - 22 hours " Pride and Prejudice " by Jane Austen - 11 hours 35 minutes " The Three Musketeers " (Full Cast Audio) - 28 hours " Around the World in 80 Days " by Jules Verne - 6 hours " Gulliver's Travels " by Jonathan Swift - 11 hours This post includes Amazon affiliate links, and if you choose to make a purchase, I might earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your support! Selecting the perfect audiobook can turn your family road trip from a monotonous trek into a thrilling adventure full of shared stories and memories. Keep in mind that the best audiobooks are those that inspire conversation, captivate various age groups, and leave everyone eager for the next chapter. Begin with our age-suitable suggestions, and ensure you download your picks before setting off. Enjoy listening and travel safely! Our Favorite Road Trip Tips: The BEST Travel Games for Road Trips Best Audiobooks for Family Road Trips: Age-by-Age Guide 10 Must-Have Amazon Products to Keep Your Car Organized on a Road Trip Snackle Box: The Ultimate Road Trip Essential for Happy Traveling The Best Noise-Canceling Headphones for Kids when Traveling 20 Must-Read Books for Your Ultimate USA Travel Bucket List How to Create a USA Travel Vision Board for Nature Lovers 21 Tips for Packing Light on Your Next Trip 24 Best Travel Journals: Beautiful Options for Adventurers [Complete Guide] Pin for Later:

When planning your next outdoor adventure, having the right tent can make all the difference. Whether you're camping alone, with a partner, or bringing the whole family, Amazon offers a wide selection of top-quality tents to suit various needs and conditions. Here, we've compiled the 14 best tents available on Amazon and why each one is perfect for different types of camping trips. This post includes Amazon affiliate links, and if you choose to make a purchase, I might earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your support! Guide to the Best Tents on Amazon for all Weather and Camping Needs: 1. ALPS Mountaineering Lynx 1-Person Tent Best Used For:  Solo backpacking and hiking trips. This tent is lightweight at just 4 pounds and offers quick setup with its freestanding design. The vestibule provides extra storage space for gear. Size:  90" x 32" x 36" Materials:  Polyester tent fly resists water and UV damage, aluminum poles 2. Coleman Sundome Tent Best Used For:  Couples or pairs seeking a reliable tent for weekend getaways. The Coleman Sundome features large windows and a ground vent for enhanced ventilation, and its rainfly offers added protection from the elements. Size:  Available in 2, 3, 4 and 6 person sizes Materials:  Polyester taffeta 75 denier flysheet 3. Core 9-Person Instant Cabin Tent Best Used For:  Large families or groups needing quick setup and spacious interiors. This tent includes room dividers and storage pockets, making it perfect for organizing gear and providing privacy. Size:  Available in 6, 9, 10, and 12 person sizes Materials:  Durable 68D polyester with a steel frame 4. MSR Hubba Hubba NX 2-Person Tent Best Used For:  Mountain camping and backpacking. The MSR Hubba Hubba is designed for lightweight durability, excellent ventilation, and weather resistance, making it ideal for challenging environments. Size:  84" x 50" with a 39-inch peak height Materials:  20-denier ripstop nylon and 15-denier nylon mesh 5. Coleman WeatherMaster 10-Person Outdoor Tent Best Used For:  Large families or groups. This tent offers a screened-in porch, separate rooms, and WeatherTec features like inverted seams and welded floors to keep you dry. Size:  17' x 9' with a 6-foot 8-inch center height Materials:  Polyester taffeta 75D 6. Wakeman Outdoors Beach Tent Best Used For:  Beach outings. It provides UPF 50+ sun protection, a lightweight design for portability, and quick setup, making it ideal for beachgoers. Size:  210 cm x 120 cm x 120 cm Materials:  Water-resistant polyester 190T with a fiberglass frame 7. TETON Sports Mountain Ultra Tent Best Used For:  Hot and cold weather camping. This tent excels in ventilation and weather protection, with a full mesh body and a rainfly that offers full coverage. Size:  Varies by size (1-person to 4-person options) Materials:  Micromesh inner tent with a durable waterproof rainfly 8. Kelty Late Start 4-Person Tent Best Used For:  Families or small groups. The Kelty Late Start offers a quick setup with color-coded clips and poles, a waterproof rainfly, and a spacious interior for comfortable camping. Size:  Available in 1, 2, and 4-person sizes. Materials:  68-denier polyester 9. Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 Tent Best Used For:  Lightweight backpacking. This tent is known for its spacious interior, dual vestibules for gear storage, and ultralight design, making it perfect for long treks. Size:  Available in 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 person sizes Materials:  Ultralight nylon and polyester mesh 10. Coleman Cabin Tent with Instant Setup Best Used For:  Quick weekend trips. The instant setup feature allows for easy assembly in under a minute, and the tent provides ample space. Size:  Available in 4, 6, 8 and 10-person sizes Materials:  Double-thick fabric with WeatherTec system 11. Gazelle T4 Plus Hub Tent Best Used For:  Family or group camping. The Gazelle T4 offers quick setup, spacious interiors for four to eight people, and a durable design with plenty of ventilation, making it great for extended stays. Size:  94" x 94" with an 80-inch center height Materials:  210-denier Oxford weave polyester shell 12. Eureka! Copper Canyon LX Tent Best Used For:  Family camping in fair weather. The vertical walls provide more standing room, and large windows and doors offer excellent ventilation. Size:  Available in 4, 6, 8 and 12-person sizes. Materials:  75D 190T polyester taffeta 13. NEMO Dagger 2-Person Tent Best Used For:  Backcountry adventures. The NEMO Dagger is lightweight, spacious, and offers excellent weather resistance, making it a premium choice for serious campers. Size:  90" x 50" with a 42-inch peak height Materials:  15D Nylon Ripstop and No-See-Um mesh 14. Marmot Catalyst Tent Best Used For:   The lightweight igloo tent is ideal for camping, backpacking, and hiking when comfort, performance, and lightweight are crucial, featuring 2 D-shaped doors for easy access. This trekking tent is made of high-quality waterproof materials that are weatherproof yet lightweight, with double taped seams and a raised catenary cut floor to ensure waterproofness. Size:  Available in 2 or 3-person sizes Materials:   100% Polyester Taffeta Choosing the right tent for your camping adventure is crucial to ensure comfort, safety, and enjoyment. These 14 best tents on Amazon cater to a wide range of needs, from solo backpacking trips to family vacations in diverse weather conditions. No matter your camping style, there’s a perfect tent waiting for you. Pin for Later:

Valentine’s Day is the perfect opportunity to show your spouse how much you love and appreciate them. Whether you’re looking for a sentimental keepsake, a fun activity to enjoy together, or a luxurious experience, there’s something special for every couple. Instead of going with the usual flowers and chocolates, consider a meaningful gift that strengthens your bond and creates lasting memories. In this guide, we’ve rounded up the most romantic and unique Valentine’s Day gifts on Amazon —including creative date night activities, thoughtful keepsakes, and exciting experiences you can enjoy together. Many of these ideas are perfect for your romantic getaway or staycation. This post includes Amazon affiliate links, and if you choose to make a purchase, I might earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your support! Thoughtful & Personalized Valentine’s Day Gifts 1. What I Love About You: 30 Things I Love About You and the Reasons Why I Love You Fill-in-the-Blank Gift Book If you're looking for a gift that truly speaks from the heart, What I Love About You is perfect! It’s not just a book; it’s a way to share your favorite memories and feelings in a fun, creative way. Plus, with its adorable size and thoughtful prompts, it makes expressing your love feel effortless and special, no matter the occasion! 2. Morse Code Bracelet with a Secret Message If you're looking for a gift that says "I love you" in a truly special way, the Dainty Morse Code Bracelets are just perfect! Each bracelet is not only a beautiful piece of jewelry, but it also carries a secret message that will make her smile every time she wears it. Plus, with their elegant packaging, they’re ready to impress for any occasion, making gift-giving a breeze! 3. Customized Sound Wave Art This acrylic block is such a thoughtful gift because it uniquely captures a special song, making it a perfect keepsake for any music lover. Imagine the joy on their face when they see their favorite tune transformed into stunning sound wave art, along with a personal message that shows you care. Plus, with the QR code for instant playback, they can relive those cherished memories anytime they want! 4. Engraved Wallet Card Love Note This engraved wallet card is such a thoughtful gift that adds a personal touch to any special occasion, making it perfect for the important men in your life. Whether it's a birthday, anniversary, or just to show appreciation, its compact size and durable material ensure it will be cherished for years to come. Plus, with vibrant UV laser prints and a happiness guarantee, you can rest assured that it will bring a smile to his face every time he pulls it out! Fun & Interactive Gifts for Couples 5. A Year of Dates This date box is such a fantastic gift because it brings a fresh spark to your romantic life with 52 unique date ideas, ensuring you never run out of fun things to do together! Each week, you get to unwrap a surprise date night, which adds an element of thrill and anticipation to your relationship. Plus, it’s perfect for celebrating anniversaries, making it a thoughtful and memorable way to honor your love story! 6. Date Night Scratch Off Book The Date Night Book is such a fantastic gift because it turns ordinary evenings into unforgettable adventures, making it perfect for any couple looking to spice things up! With 60 unique date ideas, from cozy nights to exciting outings, it encourages couples to try new things together and strengthen their bond. Plus, the thrill of scratching off a date and committing to it adds an element of surprise that keeps the romance alive! 7. 365 Romantic Questions "365 Reasons to Love" is such a fantastic gift because it turns any ordinary evening into a memorable experience filled with laughter and connection. With 183 cards packed with unique questions, it’s like having a treasure chest of conversation starters that can deepen your bond, whether you're just starting or have been together for years. Plus, the mix of heartfelt topics and fun challenges makes it perfect for date nights or those cozy nights when you just want to connect on a deeper level. 8. The Ultimate Couples Bucket List This fill-in couple’s journal and planner is the perfect gift for any married couple looking to deepen their connection and set exciting goals together. With Alex and Ryan's relatable stories, it feels like you're getting advice from friends who truly understand the ups and downs of marriage. Plus, the practical tips make it easy for couples to turn their dreams into reality while creating lasting memories along the way! 9. DIY Couples Coupon Book This blank coupon book is such a thoughtful gift because it lets you add a personal touch that truly shows you care. Imagine the joy on your partner's face when they realize they can redeem fun and romantic rewards just for them! Plus, with the stylish wooden box and shiny gold foil coupons, it’s not just a gift; it’s a memorable experience waiting to happen! 10. Personalized Adventure Fund Jar This gift is perfect for anyone who loves to explore and make memories together, as it encourages future trips and spontaneous date nights. It’s all about embracing the spirit of adventure and enjoying the thrill of new experiences side by side. Plus, it’s a fun way to satisfy that wanderlust and create lasting memories that you’ll cherish forever! Fun Activities to Enjoy Together on Valentine’s Day 11. Cooking Class for Two This cooking class for two is the perfect gift because it offers a fun and interactive way to bond while learning something new together. Imagine whipping up delicious dishes side by side, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Plus, with a variety of classes available, you can explore your culinary passions, whether it's mastering international flavors or perfecting your baking skills! 12. Escape Room in an Envelope This gift is perfect for turning any ordinary evening into a thrilling adventure filled with laughter and teamwork! Imagine the excitement as you and your loved ones dive into each envelope, tackling puzzles that challenge your minds and spark your creativity. It's not just a gift; it's an experience that will create lasting memories for everyone involved! 13. A Year of Movies This unique date box is such a fun gift for movie-loving couples, turning every week into a mini adventure with a surprise film to enjoy together. With 50 sealed envelopes, it's like having your movie club, allowing you to explore different genres and rediscover old favorites. Plus, the added thrill of opening an envelope each week keeps the excitement alive, making date nights something to look forward to! 14. DIY Paint & Sip Kit This paint kit is the perfect gift for anyone looking to unleash their inner artist without the stress of starting from scratch. With everything from pre-drawn canvases to vibrant acrylic paints, it's practically a no-brainer for beginners to dive right in and start creating. Plus, the durable canvases mean they can proudly display their masterpieces for years to come! 15. da Vinci's Room Mystery Date This collection of 52 at-home date ideas is such a fantastic gift because it encourages couples to break out of their routine and discover new ways to connect. Imagine the laughter and joy as you try out activities you’ve never considered before, creating unforgettable memories right in the comfort of your home. It’s a sweet reminder that sometimes the best moments happen when you simply focus on each other! 16. Movie Night Gift Basket This Movie Night Basket Gift Set is a total game-changer for anyone who loves cozy nights! With 33 awesome goodies, from popcorn to candy, it’s like having a mini-theater right at home, and you can't go wrong with that. Plus, the fun extras like the director's clapboard and bingo cards make it a perfect way to bring friends and family together for a night of laughter and fun! 17. Wonderbox: AMC for 2 This gift box is the ultimate way to treat someone special to a fun night out at the movies! Imagine the joy of picking a favorite film, grabbing some popcorn, and enjoying drinks together while making unforgettable memories. Plus, with so many AMC locations to choose from, it’s super convenient to plan the perfect outing anytime you want! Make This Valentine’s Day Unforgettable By planning and adding a personal touch, like a sweet note or a surprise adventure, you create a memorable experience that they'll cherish forever. It's not just about the gift itself, but the thought and effort you put into making the day extraordinary. Ready to find the perfect Valentine’s Day gift?  Click below to shop the best romantic and unique gifts on Amazon now. 🔗 [Shop Now on Amazon] Guides to Romantic Getaways: Romantic Getaway to Missouri’s Wine Country: The Best Destinations for Couples Ultimate Guide to the Most Romantic Cabins, Hotels & Vacation Rentals in Branson, Missouri Top 4 Charming Vacation Rentals in the Amana Colonies 3 Enchanting Missouri Castles for Your Next Getaway Exploring Kentucky's Moonbow at Cumberland Falls State Park Top 5 Charming Vacation Rentals in Pella, Iowa The Best Cabin Rentals in the Smoky Mountains 3 Best Glamping Sites in the Smoky Mountains Pin for Later:

The Prettiest Journals for Women Who Travel, Explore Nature, and Love Adventure Set Journaling Goals for the New Year One of the best resolutions you can pick up this year is to start journaling about all your adventures. This is a great way to document your goals, dreams, and memories. Whether you're off exploring stunning places, hiking those gorgeous trails, or diving into new activities, keeping a journal can help you capture those unforgettable moments. To help you on your journaling journey, we've curated a list of the most beautiful journals available on Amazon . These journals are perfect for women who love to travel, explore nature, and embark on adventures. Choose from a sleek notebook to something colorful and quirky—whatever speaks to your style! Why Set a Goal to Journal More? Capture Memories : Writing down your adventures ensures they last a lifetime. Boost Creativity : Journaling helps spark creativity and inspiration. Reduce Stress : Reflecting on your day can provide mental clarity and relaxation. Track Goals : Document your progress toward personal and travel goals. Build a Legacy : Create a keepsake to look back on and share with loved ones. 5 Tips for Making Journaling a Habit Set a Routine : Dedicate a specific time for journaling each day. Start Small : Write just a few lines or bullet points to begin. Carry Your Journal : Keep it handy for spontaneous inspiration. Use Prompts : Explore guided journals or online prompts. Make it Enjoyable : Choose a journal and pen you love using. The Most Beautiful Travel Journals on Amazon Discover the most stunning journals perfect for women who travel, immerse themselves in nature, and seek adventures. These Amazon selections will inspire you to begin your journaling journey. Journal Categories: Guided Travel Journals Blank Line Journals Sketch and Art Journals Nature and Adventure Journals Favorite Pens for Journaling This post includes Amazon affiliate links, and if you choose to make a purchase, I might earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your support! Guided Travel Journals These guided journals are great for adventurers who need a little inspiration to start writing. DUNCAN & STONE PAPER CO. Travel Journal This simple travel journal features a high-quality linen cloth hardcover with a gold-embossed title and spine. It includes 100 pages of simple, guided prompts to document 15 trips. Measuring 9.25” x 7.75”, the journal includes 110 pages. The adventure scrapbook is encased in a cellophane bag for protection. It comes in sage green, sand, and rose. Ben Nemtin The Bucket List Journal | Science-Backed Guided Journal The Bucket List Journal helps you stay accountable to your goals by tracking progress and taking actionable steps. It includes four stages of goal achievement, writing guidelines, before-and-after tracking, a goal-tracking formula, free-writing pages, and motivational quotes. This journal promotes accountability, focus, and well-being. A year from now, you’ll be glad you started today. It features a linen cover with gold foil, 100% lay-flat binding, a QR code for exclusive content, 100gsm ivory pages, and 100% recycled FSC paper. Created by Ben Nemtin, a #1 New York Times best-selling author and co-founder of The Buried Life. My Travel Journal: A Travel Keepsake Journal Capture your travel memories with this exquisite heirloom-quality prompted journal, the perfect gift for adventurers. Whether for a weekend getaway or a dream trip, this sophisticated travel journal by bestselling author Korie Herold helps you remember every moment. My Travel Journal  features beautifully crafted pages with hand-drawn illustrations, space for daily memories, additional pages for photos and mementos, a refined cloth cover with foil details, sturdy binding with acid-free paper, and a lay-flat design for easy writing. Lanpn Travel Photo Journal At 9.3"x 7.8", this scrapbook journal book easily fits into backpacks and handbags, making it perfect for capturing travel memories. This prompted journal (110 pages) features a table of contents for 15 trips, trip overview questions, "Favorite Things" pages, bucket lists, and plenty of ruled pages for notes and photos. Blank Line Journals These beautiful blank notebooks are perfect for writers. Each page provides a blank canvas for your memories and ideas. Settini Lined Vegan Leather Journal This elegant journal is available in 9 stylish designs and features 80 GSM QuillEase paper with 7mm line spacing for a smooth, bleed-resistant writing experience. Its durable vegan leather cover and hardcover provide protection and longevity, making it suitable for personal, professional, or travel use. Additional features include an elastic closure, ribbon bookmark, and inner pocket for secure storage. Its portable A5 size (8.5” x 5.5”) is perfect for on-the-go writing and journaling. VICTORIA'S JOURNALS Vintage Faux Leather Magnet Journal This beautiful journal, available in 15 vibrant colors, is the perfect companion for your thoughts and creativity. Measuring 8'' x 5.7'' (20.4cm x 14.5cm), it features 80 sheets (160 pages) of ruled layout. The retro matte vegan leather cover provides a luxurious feel and durable stitching for longevity. Its magnetic closure keeps pages secure, making it easy to carry, while ribbon bookmarks help you stay organized. With high-quality 100gsm acid-free paper, you can write without worrying about ink bleeding through. Lined Faux Leather Journal Notebook Available in ten colors, the classic brown ruled notebook is a high-quality journal at a competitive price. Ideal for everyday use, it offers ample space for notes and lists. Each notebook includes a luxurious pen for an enhanced writing experience. With thick 5.9 x 8.4 inch, 200-page, 100 gsm lined paper, it prevents feathering and suits most pens. The archival-quality, acid-free pages are easy on the eyes and resist light and air damage, allowing your creativity to flow on its wide-ruled pages. Kokonote Hokusai Travel Journal This lovely Japanese diary features a beautiful design of The Great Wave off Kanagawa, Hokusai's most famous print, inspiring your travel adventures. It includes two notepads—one lined and one dotted—each measuring 7.3 x 4 inches with 40 pages of 80 gsm paper. The soft PU leather cover has an elastic band for secure closure. With dimensions of 4.7 x 7.7 x 0.6 inches, it’s a perfect travel companion. The diary also offers practical extras, including three credit card slots and a zippered pocket for storing train tickets, pens, keys, and other essentials, making it an excellent passport holder or travel wallet. Field Notes: National Park Series These charming pocket-sized books are perfect for your National Park journey. Each one is a 3.5x5.5" memo book containing 48 pages of graph paper. You can purchase bundles that include your favorite parks. Currently, there are designs available for 18 parks. Genuine Leather Journal The leather is soft, smooth, and durable, with hand-stitching that adds to its unique and beautiful appearance. Writing 260 Pages 5x7.1 Inches Vintage Journal The notebook's inner pages use vintage-style kraft paper, which complements the cover. With 260 pages, it offers a moderate thickness, ensuring a smooth writing experience without easy bleed-through or smudging. VICTORIA'S Travel Journal This exquisite journal is available in 22 unique colors and designs. Measuring 5.7” x 8.1” (14.5cm x 20.5cm), it features 320 pages of 80 gsm, durable, acid-free paper, perfect for fountain pen ink. The faux leather cover showcases a beautiful texture, raised embossing, gold-foil details, and a gilded top edge. All pages are lined, making it ideal for planning, designing, and creating charts while maintaining an elegant style. RICCO BELLO Classic College Ruled Notebook Available in 34 stunning designs, this notebook features a lay-flat design for hassle-free writing with 192 pages (96 sheets, front & back) and premium features including an elastic band closure, pen holder, ribbon bookmark, and expandable storage pocket. The 80 GSM acid-free cream paper prevents fading to keep your journal and notes safe. 4 Pack Van Gogh Notebooks The Van Gogh Hardcover Spiral Journals feature a 2mm thick ultra-hard cover adorned with an oil painting pattern, providing both vintage texture and protection. Each journal includes premium 100gsm inner pages that ensure smooth writing with minimal ink bleed-through, while the light yellow paper is gentle on the eyes. Measuring 8.3"x 6.3" (21x16cm) and equipped with sturdy spiral binding, these journals facilitate easy page flipping and durability. Each notebook showcases Van Gogh's iconic artworks, making them ideal for diary entries, creative writing, and thoughtful gifts. Aesthetic Thick Spiral Notebook Journal ZICOTO's B5 wide-ruled notebook is a beautiful, simple journal with a generous 300 pages, offering plenty of room for thoughts to flourish, all wrapped in a stylish design featuring elegant golden edges and a warm beige linen hardcover. The convenient wide-ruled pages invite neat writing, while the handy back pocket keeps extra notes secure and organized. An elastic band adds an extra touch of security, ensuring that all those precious ideas are safely tucked away. Crafted with 100gsm thick, ink-friendly pages and strong double-wire binding, this durable notebook is great for journaling. Fanery Sue Refillable Adventure Travel Journal Durable Faux Leather Cover & Magnetic Closure: This travel journal has a sturdy vegan-friendly faux leather cover with a secure magnetic snap. Dimensions: 5.3 x 8.6 inches. Ink-proof Thick Paper: Featuring 200 pages of 100 GSM paper, it prevents feathering and bleeding, ideal for fountain pens. The light yellow pages are easy on the eyes, and the notebook lays flat for effortless writing, perfect for documenting your travels. ZICOTO Aesthetic Spiral Notebook Set of 3 Each set includes three notebooks, sized at 8.2x5.9 inches, featuring 50 sheets each and a double-sided storage pocket for loose documents. The elegant minimalistic design of these journals, complete with lined pages, enhances the writing experience and provides ample space for creativity. Sketch and Art Journals For journalers who find joy in sketching, love adding maps, or use a scrapbook technique for their journaling, these blank-page notebooks are the perfect companion. They invite creativity and provide a blank canvas for your thoughts and artistic expressions. BEECHMORE BOOKS Sketch Book Every large notebook contains 156 pages / 78 sheets of high-quality, thick paper. The smooth, ivory cream pages are designed to prevent bleed-through, ink erasing, ghosting, and shading. With a weight of 160gsm, our paper is thicker than most, keeping each page in perfect condition. PAPERAGE Blank Journal Notebook This medium 5.7 in. by 8 in. blank notebook is available in 25 colors and features a durable, water-resistant vegan leather cover, rounded corners, 160 pages, an expandable inner pocket, sticker labels, a ribbon bookmark, and an elastic closure band. Made with high-quality, 100 gsm, acid-free light ivory paper, the thicker pages prevent ghosting and bleed-through. Its thread-bound design allows it to lay flat, making it ideal for drawing, sketching, note-taking, or journaling, suitable for both right and left-handed users. The notebook also includes an expandable pocket for storing cards and notes and sticker labels for personalization. DAFELO® Compass with World Map Embossed Leather Vintage Journal The DAFELO® Compass Vintage Journal features an embossed world map and is handmade from eco-friendly materials. Measuring 6"x8", this brown leather journal includes a strap closure and 200 pages of thick, recycled watercolor paper, offering a luxurious writing experience. Crafted in India, its authentic design and antique-like pages evoke a sense of history, making it a perfect gift for anyone. SH SHIFAA HANDICRAFT Vintage Paper Leather Bound Journal This Antique Paper Vintage Journal features 200 pages of unique handmade cotton paper for versatile writing and sketching. Its soft, genuine leather cover, made from naturally tanned full-grain leather, provides a delightful tactile experience. Hand-stitched by artisans, this rustic journal is a perfect gift for anyone, including men, women, and Wiccans. With sturdy binding and a secure leather wraparound with a key, this is a beautiful journal for adventurers. Nature and Adventure Journals For adventurers who love the great outdoors, these beautiful journals offer a cozy haven for your creativity. With ample space for writing, sketching, and capturing memories, they invite you to reflect on your journeys. Get Outside: A Log Book This guided journal and log book is perfect for nature lovers wishing to deepen their appreciation of God’s creation. It features inspirational quotes, thoughtful prompts, and essential information to enhance outdoor adventures. It includes an activity log, guides to cloud formations, flora and fauna, star navigation, outdoor photography, and wilderness safety, as well as hiking dos and don’ts, survival myths, and a list of top outdoor destinations by state. Primrosia Dot Grid Watercolor Journal Notebook Primrosia offers exclusive 160gsm watercolor paper that prevents ghosting, feathering, and bleeding, making it ideal for dual-tip pens and paints. This textured cold-pressed paper is absorbent for light washes and supports double-sided use. The journal features a vibrant tropical slipcover with toucans, tigers, and parrots, protecting the teal linen cover while showcasing gold foil illustrations. Perfect as a sketchbook or planner, it captures inspiration on the go. The A5 (6”x8”) hardcover includes gold foil embossing, round corners, 160 pages with sage bullet dots, two ribbon bookmarks, a back pocket with an inspirational quote, a pen holder, and a wide elastic closure band, all designed to lay flat when open. Nature Walk Journal Embrace your inner Thoreau with the Nature Walk Journal —your ideal companion for outdoor adventures. It includes illustrations of leaves, clouds, and animal tracks, plus lists of national parks and scenic trails. Record your observations, press wildflowers, attach photos, or sketch the scenery. Enjoy quotes about nature from various writers and artists throughout the journal. The National Parks Traveler's Companion This essential field journal is perfect for capturing the "who, what, when, and where" of your adventures in all 63 national parks, featuring checklists for local wildlife and popular hikes. With twelve blank pages for your notes on historic sites and regional parks, and adorned with colorful illustrations, it also boasts a durable synthetic cover and an elastic bellyband to keep it secure. With space for 75 destinations, this journal will serve as a cherished keepsake of your outdoor experiences. Favorite Pens for Journaling These are our favorite pens for journaling. They write smoothly, their grip is perfect, and they are cute and stylish. Ddaowanx Gel Pens These Quick Dry Black Ink Pens, available in sets of 6, 12, and 24 with various color combinations, feature a fine point for smooth writing and are ideal for journaling. With quick-drying, fade-resistant ink, these retractable rollerball gel pens keep your work neat and smudge-free. Their practical design includes a handy clip for easy carrying and a retractable mechanism that allows you to expose the pen tip with a simple press of the cap. WRITECH Gel Pens Journaling Highlighters: Journal Set This beautiful set includes six coordinated combinations of gel pens and highlighters inspired by natural environments like the desert, forest, and ocean. It features 3 black ink gel pens, 2 pastel gel pens, and 2 retractable highlighters. The 0.5mm and 0.7mm fine-point gel pens provide a smooth, no-skip writing experience with quick-drying ink. The highlighter's seal design prevents leaks, and its chisel tip allows for versatile line widths. Ideal for bullet journaling, planning, and note-taking, this aesthetically pleasing set makes a great gift for students, teachers, nurses, or colleagues. SKYDUE 44-Piece Essentials Stationary Set This set includes everything a student needs: a pencil case, 12 highlighters, 5 black pens, 6 colored pens, 6 mechanical pencils, 5 black pen refills, 6 mechanical pencil refills, 2 erasers, a sticky note pad, and various stationery items. With 44 pieces total, the pencil case measures 8.66 x 4.13 x 2.56 inches, offering ample room for up to 50 pens or 90 pencils, plus a mesh pocket for smaller items. The inclusion of 5 black ballpoint pen refills and 6 boxes of mechanical pencil refills ensures long-lasting use. This set provides high-quality writing tools for clear, vivid writing, making it a perfect back-to-school gift for students eager to start the new semester with stylish and functional supplies that support their academic success. Zebra Pen Journaling Set This set features six Mildliner Highlighters and six Sarasa Clip Retractable Gel Ink Pens in coordinating colors, ideal for creative expression. The double-ended Mildliner Highlighters come with both broad and fine tips, showcasing unique mild colors that layer beautifully on paper. Meanwhile, the Sarasa Clip Pens offer a 0.5mm fine point for precise writing, utilizing smooth, non-smearing pigment ink in vibrant hues. Each pen and highlighter includes a convenient pocket clip for easy attachment to notebooks and is stored in a reusable case, making this elegant set perfect for writing, lettering, sketching, drawing, adult coloring, bullet journaling, and various artistic projects on almost any paper surface. Bic "We bring simplicity and joy to everyday life." is the slogan for Bic. For over 75 years, this brand has been the go-to for basic stationery. Jerry Seinfeld famously claims that he wrote every episode of his eponymous show using a classic Bic pen (using the pen until it was bone dry before replacing it) and yellow legal pads. Sometimes you simply cannot top timeless classics. For trusted simplicity, use a Bic. DIVERSEBEE No Bleed Highlighters and Pens These no-bleed highlighters are perfect for journaling and memorizing verses. They come in six sets of eight stylish colors, ideal for color coding and highlighting favorite book passages. Features include no bleed, ensuring they won't fade or smear over other inks, easy application that prevents drying out if left uncapped, and a twistable design that can be sharpened for a finer tip. The company stands by its products, guaranteeing customer satisfaction; if customers are not fully satisfied with their purchase, they can contact customer service. Start your journaling journey today with these beautiful and inspiring journals. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or planning your first adventure, there’s a perfect journal waiting for you! Our Favorite Road Trip Tips: The BEST Travel Games for Road Trips Best Audiobooks for Family Road Trips: Age-by-Age Guide 10 Must-Have Amazon Products to Keep Your Car Organized on a Road Trip Snackle Box: The Ultimate Road Trip Essential for Happy Traveling The Best Noise-Canceling Headphones for Kids when Traveling 20 Must-Read Books for Your Ultimate USA Travel Bucket List How to Create a USA Travel Vision Board for Nature Lovers 21 Tips for Packing Light on Your Next Trip 24 Best Travel Journals: Beautiful Options for Adventurers [Complete Guide] Pin for Later:

Here’s a list of 100 journal prompts for travelers  to inspire reflection, creativity, and documentation of adventures: Tip: Explore Amazon's Most Stunning Travel Journals to document your journeys. Before the Journey Why did you choose this destination? What are you most excited about? What’s one fear or challenge you hope to overcome during this trip? What are three things you want to experience while traveling? How are you preparing for this journey? What’s in your travel bag that you can’t leave home without? What do you hope to learn about yourself on this trip? How do you feel about traveling alone or with companions? What’s your travel mantra for this trip? How do you think this trip will change you? During the Journey Describe your first impressions of this place. What does the air smell like? What sounds are most distinct here? How is this place different from home? What’s the most surprising thing you’ve seen so far? Write about an interaction with a local. What new food have you tried, and how did it taste? Describe a moment that made you laugh. What’s your favorite sight or landmark so far? What’s a cultural tradition here that fascinates you? Nature and Scenery Describe the most beautiful natural feature you’ve seen. What’s the weather like, and how does it affect your experience? Write about a sunrise or sunset you’ve witnessed. How does the landscape make you feel? What colors stand out most in this place? Have you encountered any wildlife? Describe the experience. What’s the most peaceful spot you’ve found? Describe the view from your current location. How does the scenery compare to other places you’ve visited? What would you paint if you could capture this place on canvas? Cultural Experiences What’s a custom or tradition here that you’ve participated in? How do people dress, and what does it say about their culture? Write about a local festival or event. What kind of music is popular here? How does the architecture reflect the culture? What’s the local language, and how much have you learned? Describe a piece of art or craftsmanship you’ve seen. What’s the most unexpected cultural difference you’ve encountered? How do people greet one another here? What’s something you’ve done to immerse yourself in the local culture? Food and Drink Write about the best meal you’ve had so far. What’s a local dish you’ll never forget? How do people here eat differently than at home? Describe the flavors of a dish you’ve tried. Write about a food you didn’t enjoy and why. What’s the story behind a local drink you’ve sampled? How does food connect people in this culture? What’s the most colorful dish you’ve eaten? Write about a meal you shared with someone else. What’s a food here that reminds you of home? Personal Growth and Reflection What have you learned about yourself so far? How has this trip challenged your comfort zone? Write about a moment you felt truly alive. What’s a fear you faced while traveling? How has this trip affected your perspective on life? Write about a moment of gratitude during this journey. What’s something you miss about home right now? How do you feel about your travel decisions so far? Write about a moment when you felt out of place. What’s something new you’ve discovered about yourself? Encounters with Others Who’s the most interesting person you’ve met on this trip? Describe a random act of kindness you witnessed or received. Write about a conversation that left a lasting impression. What’s something a local taught you? Have you made a new friend? Describe them. Write about a humorous encounter with someone. How do people here interact differently than at home? Write about a moment of connection despite a language barrier. What’s the most generous thing someone has done for you here? Who’s someone you’d like to meet again someday? Memories and Highlights Describe your favorite memory from this trip so far. What’s a moment you wish you could relive? Write about a place that took your breath away. What’s a small detail from this trip that stands out? What’s a story you can’t wait to tell when you get home? Write about a time when you felt lost. What’s a souvenir or memento you’ve collected, and why? What’s a funny mishap or travel blunder you experienced? What’s a hidden gem you discovered? Write about the best photo you’ve taken so far. After the Journey What’s the first thing you want to do when you get home? How does this place compare to others you’ve visited? What’s something you want to learn more about after this trip? Write about a lesson this trip taught you. How has this journey changed your perspective on travel? What’s a habit or routine you want to adopt from this culture? Describe how it feels to leave this place behind. Write a letter to yourself reflecting on this trip. What’s something you’ll never forget about this trip? How has this trip inspired your future travels? Creative Prompts Write a poem about this destination. Sketch or describe your favorite place here. Imagine what it would be like to live here. Write a story inspired by this journey. Create a list of songs that remind you of this trip. Write about how this place would look during another season. Describe this trip as if you were telling it to a child. Imagine you’re a travel writer—describe this destination in glowing detail. If this trip had a theme song, what would it be? Write a bucket list inspired by this journey. These prompts are perfect for capturing memories, reflecting on your travel experiences, or inspiring your future adventures! Tip: Explore Amazon's Most Stunning Travel Journals  to document your journeys. Pin for Later:

Traveling with our little ones can sometimes feel like a circus, can't it? But let me tell you, the right pair of noise-canceling headphones can make all the difference in turning a chaotic journey into a smooth ride. Did you know that a whopping 67% of parents find it tough to keep their kiddos calm while traveling? That’s a lot of us! Noise-canceling headphones are not just a fun accessory; they’re an essential tool that can help protect those tiny ears and create a peaceful environment for the whole family. Our girls love listening to audiobooks on road trips and airplanes, but with different ages and tastes, they all choose different books to read. Noise-canceling headphones allow everyone to enjoy their content in peace. Let's explore some expert advice, top suggestions, and a convenient buying guide to help you choose the ideal pair for your child. After all, we all deserve some peace while traveling. Essential Features to Consider in Children's Noise-Canceling Headphones Volume control technology Adjustable, comfortable design Sturdy build Battery duration and charging methods Wireless Bluetooth capability Size suitable for age Options for both wireless and wired use Best Noise-Canceling Headphones for Kids: A Mother's Guide As a mother, I know how important it is to keep kids entertained and comfortable during travel. Whether flying, taking a road trip, or carpooling, the right headphones can make all the difference. They keep kids engaged with their favorite audiobooks or music and shield them from overwhelming noise that can lead to meltdowns. Below, I’ve broken down the best noise-canceling headphones for kids by age group and travel needs. The Best Headphones for Toddlers (Ages 1-3) CozyPhones Kids Headphones: I love the CozyPhones 3.0 headphones for their soft, stretchy headband and volume-limited speakers that protect hearing. They connect easily to devices, making long car rides or relaxing at home enjoyable. Their sensory-friendly design keeps everything in place without interfering with car seats or airplane headrests, simplifying travel. With a durable design, a travel bag, and fun designs including a kitten, fox, panda, and unicorn, these are perfect for little ones. Notes: Under $50 Recommended for Toddlers and Preschoolers LilGadgets Connect+: Kids love comfort and durability of these on-ear wired headphones available in seven fun colors. The SoftTouch padding ensures comfort for long use at school or during travel, making them a great gift from parents or teachers. The SharePort Technology allows kids to share audio without a splitter, promoting connection. With a volume limit of 93db, these headphones protect young ears while providing an immersive experience. The 4-foot braided nylon cable adds convenience and compatibility with various devices, and their durability ensures they withstand daily wear and tear as children grow. Notes: Under $30 Ideal for Toddlers and Preschoolers Puro Sound Labs JuniorJam Plus: Moms love JuniorJams headphones. They limit harmful volumes to 85 dB without sacrificing sound quality ensuring children enjoy crystal-clear music while staying safe. With wireless Bluetooth technology and a long battery life, kids can move freely without tangled wires. Plus, the comfortable design means they can wear them for hours without discomfort. Choose from six fun color combinations. Puro Sound Labs technology keeps kids' ears safe, and they even come with a 1-year warranty. Notes: Under $75 Ideal for toddlers and preschoolers Headphones for Preschoolers (Ages 4-5) Puro Sound Labs PuroQuiet Plus:   These headphones are perfect for your little ones and work for ages 2-Tween, so they grow with your child. They safely limit the volume to 85 dB to protect their hearing, while still providing clear audio even in noisy environments. With an impressive battery life of up to 35 hours, they can enjoy their favorite tunes without interruption, and the quick charging feature ensures they're always ready to go. The comfortable design, featuring soft vegan leather and adjustable arms, means they can wear them for hours without discomfort. Plus, with Bluetooth 5.1, they can move around freely while staying connected. It's a great way for them to enjoy crisp sound quality while keeping their ears safe. With six fun color combinations, you can keep track of each set easily. Notes: Under $150 Recommended for Toddlers-Tweens BuddyPhones Play+ Kids love the fun designs of these custom-made headphones. They not only look great but also feature volume-limiting controls to protect their hearing. The ability to connect to multiple devices is a game-changer, allowing children to use them with their iPads, smartphones, and more. Plus, the dual connection feature means you never have to worry about battery life during long trips. With patented StudyMode technology, noisy environments are no longer a distraction during online classes, making learning so much easier. Notes: Under $50 Ideal for Preschoolers and Elementary LilGadgets Untangled Pro: The LilGadgets Untangled Pro Wireless Kids Headphones are a game-changer, allowing kids to experience high-quality audio without the hassle of tangled wires. With their comfortable design and long-lasting battery life, kids can wear them for hours while playing or learning. The SharePort Technology lets them share audio with friends without needing extra devices, making it perfect for friends and siblings. Plus, the volume limit ensures their ears are protected, giving me peace of mind while they enjoy their listening adventures. Notes: Under $50 Ideal for ages 4+ Snug Play+ Kids Headphones: Kids love these headphones and they come in over twenty fun designs. They can easily share their audio experience with friends through the convenient sharing port, allowing for group enjoyment of music or movies. The built-in volume limiting feature ensures that their sensitive ears are protected from loud sounds, giving parents peace of mind. Designed specifically for children, these headphones are lightweight and come with soft, comfortable earpads, making them perfect for long listening sessions. With premium sound quality provided by 40mm drivers, kids can immerse themselves in their favorite tunes or shows without compromising on audio clarity. Additionally, the durable materials used in construction mean these headphones can withstand the rough and tumble of everyday play, making them a favorite choice for active children. Notes: Under $25 Ideal for ages 3-8 Headphones for School-Aged Kids (Ages 6-12) JLab JBuddies Studio On-Ear Kids Wired Headphones:   The JBuddies Studio headphones are perfect for kids aged 6-16, offering a comfortable over-ear design in five fun colors. With built-in volume limiters that cap at 85dB, they ensure safe listening while still providing great audio quality. Their compact, foldable design and adjustable headband make them easy to carry and suitable for growing children. Convenient inline controls on the tangle-free cable allow for effortless music playback and calls, and their durable construction ensures they can handle daily wear and tear. Plus, with a 30-day satisfaction guarantee and a lifetime warranty from JLab, you can trust in their quality. Notes: Under $25 Recommended for ages 6-16 Sony WH-CH710N: These lightweight Sony over-ear wireless headphones, weighing 192g, offer comfort and performance for all-day wear. With features like dual noise cancellation for immersive listening, a long battery life of up to 35 hours, and adaptive sound control, they cater to various environments. The digital sound enhancement engine ensures high-quality audio, while precise voice pickup technology is ideal for virtual classes and calls. Notes: Under $150 Ideal for Tweens and Teens iClever BTH12 Kids Bluetooth Headphones: Kids love these headphones for their fun designs and vibrant LED lighting modes, which add an exciting visual element to their listening experience. The safe volume control reassures parents, ensuring that children can enjoy music without risking their hearing. With an impressive battery life of up to 85 hours and fast USB-C charging, both kids and parents appreciate the convenience of not having to constantly replace batteries. The Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity allows children to move freely while using the headphones, making them perfect for music, calls, or online classes. Lastly, the durable and adjustable design ensures that these headphones can withstand the wear and tear of everyday use while providing a comfortable fit. Notes: Under $30 Ideal for Grade School ages Headphones for Teens (Ages 13 and Up) Bose QuietComfort Bluetooth Headphones: These noise-canceling headphones are an excellent choice for both teens and adults, enabling you to fully enjoy your favorite music or podcasts while blocking out distractions. Featuring a comfortable design, a range of color options, and remarkable battery life, they are ideal for extended study sessions or commutes. Additionally, the ability to toggle between noise cancellation and awareness modes makes them adaptable to any situation, allowing you to relish your audio experience without becoming disconnected from your environment when necessary. Notes: $300-400 Ideal for Teens and Adults Apple AirPods Pro 2 Wireless Earbuds: AirPods Pro (2nd Gen, 2023) enhances the listening experience for both teens and adults alike. With their cutting-edge noise cancellation and immersive spatial audio, they provide a fantastic way to enjoy music or podcasts without distractions. The customizable comfort ensures that everyone can find the perfect fit, making them ideal for long study sessions or workouts. Plus, the intuitive controls and long-lasting battery life mean you can stay connected and entertained throughout the day. Notes: $150-250 Ideal for teens and adults Soundcore Anker Life Q20 Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones: Teens love the premium sound quality, which allows them to experience their favorite music with remarkable clarity and detail. The hybrid active noise cancellation feature is a major selling point, as it enables them to immerse themselves in their audio without distractions from the outside world. Additionally, the BassUp technology caters to their love for bass-heavy genres, providing an instant boost that enhances their listening experience. The exceptional battery life is another attractive aspect, ensuring that they can enjoy long listening sessions without frequent recharging. Finally, the convenience of a quick charge that offers hours of playtime aligns perfectly with their fast-paced lifestyles, making these headphones a must-have accessory. Notes: Under $75 Ideal for teens and adults This post includes Amazon affiliate links, and if you choose to make a purchase, I might earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your support! Final Thoughts Finding the right noise-canceling headphones for traveling kids depends on their age, preferences, and travel scenarios. With so many excellent options on Amazon , you can keep your kids entertained and comfortable while ensuring their hearing is protected. Whether you choose a budget-friendly pair or a premium model, these headphones will make your next trip more enjoyable for the whole family. Our Favorite Road Trip Tips: The BEST Travel Games for Road Trips Best Audiobooks for Family Road Trips: Age-by-Age Guide 10 Must-Have Amazon Products to Keep Your Car Organized on a Road Trip Snackle Box: The Ultimate Road Trip Essential for Happy Traveling The Best Noise-Canceling Headphones for Kids when Traveling 20 Must-Read Books for Your Ultimate USA Travel Bucket List How to Create a USA Travel Vision Board for Nature Lovers 21 Tips for Packing Light on Your Next Trip 24 Best Travel Journals: Beautiful Options for Adventurers [Complete Guide] Pin for Later: