Starting Out: Hiking Dunes, Honoring Lincoln, and Exploring Chicago: One Epic Midwest Adventure
First post of the Wild West Adventure Trip! From trout hatcheries and presidential history to sandy hikes and Chicago pizza—this…
Wild West Adventure Trip!
Join us for the Wild West Adventure — a family road trip spanning iconic parks and landmarks across the American West. From Yellowstone to the Badlands, we’re towing memories, laughs, and cousins in a camper packed with chaos and charm. Follow along for photos, stories, and travel tips from the trail!
Pecos, Cochiti, and Bandalier: Connecting the Puebloan Dots
We explored the Cochiti Pueblo’s Feast Day and its Corn Dance, visited Bandelier National Monument’s cliff dwellings, and tested our heights at Alcove House. At Valles Caldera, we enjoyed the cool weather and wildlife. Our tour ended at Pecos Pueblo, highlighting Spanish contact, the Pueblo Revolt, and the Civil War’s Glorieta Pass battle.
Taos and Los Alamos, New Mexico: Earthships and Powwows!
Our journey through Los Alamos and Taos highlighted New Mexico’s blend of history and modern innovation. In Los Alamos, we explored the birthplace of the atomic age and reflected on its impact. In Taos, we camped, attended a Powwow, savored local cuisine, crossed the Rio Gorge Bridge, and visited sustainable Earthship homes.
Chaco Culture National Historical Park
A journey through Aztec Ruins and Chaco Canyon, exploring ancient Puebloan culture. The trip highlights the Aztec Ruins National Monument, Chaco Culture National Historical Park, and mysterious architectural marvels like Pueblo Bonito and the Sun Dagger. Celestial connections, advanced engineering, and rich history create an unforgettable experience in the Southwest.
Mesa Verde National Park: Delving into Pueblan Culture
A scenic 6.5-hour drive from Bryce to Mesa Verde includes a stop at Arches National Park and car trouble resolved by a good Samaritan. At Mesa Verde, we explore ancient Puebloan cliff dwellings, kivas, the Cultural Center in Cortez, and learn about Ute tribal origins and the great Pueblo migration mystery.
Bryce Canyon National Park
Our family had an incredible camping trip at Bryce Canyon National Park, starting with a scenic drive from Zion. We enjoyed biking paths, explored Fairyland Canyon, and hiked iconic trails like the Queen Victoria and Navajo Loop. We also visited Mossy Cave, and took in stunning views of the Grand Staircase-Escalante.
Zion National Park or Mukuntuweap
Nestled in the Paiute Indians’ sacred lands, Zion National Park, with its rich history and stunning scenery, remains a haven for visitors. In 2024, it is expected to welcome 5 million guests. The park offers camping, biking, swimming, epic hikes, and educational ranger programs, providing unforgettable experiences for all.
Gila Cliff Dwellings and Petrified Forest National Park
The trip from White Sands to Zion National Park included stops at Gila Cliff Dwellings, Catwalk Recreation Area, and Petrified Forest National Park. Highlights were the historic Gila Cliff Dwellings, scenic Catwalk trail, and vibrant petrified trees. Long drives averaged six hours, but stops kept the journey enjoyable for the kids. Stay tuned for Zion!
The Super White Sands National Park
The journey from Carlsbad Caverns to White Sands passes through scenic Cloudcroft and Lincoln National Forest. Staying in Alamogordo, KOA Journey. Visiting White Sands National Park, they highlight its history, activities, and stunning sunsets. Subsequently, the trip continues to Gila Cliff Dwellings.
Our Exciting Trip through West Texas to Carlsbad Caverns
The journey from Austin to Carlsbad Caverns was an adventure filled with historical sites, natural wonders, and incredible night skies. Highlights included the Lyndon B. Johnson Boyhood Home, swimming at Balmorhea State Park, hiking in Guadalupe Mountains National Park, and exploring Carlsbad Caverns, culminating in an awe-inspiring bat show.
A Fun-Filled Trip to Austin, Texas
We spent three nights in Austin, Texas, celebrating Lincoln’s birthday on the drive from New Orleans. Activities included exploring McKinney Falls State Park, kayaking on Lady Bird Lake, watching the Congress Street Bridge bat show, a lively camping experience, brunch with friends, and learning Texas history.