Category Archives: ROAD TRIPS

CALIFORNIA, HIKING, ROAD TRIPS, SOUTHERN CA, WEEKEND GETAWAY

SUMMER IN BIG BEAR

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Big Bear Lake and the surrounding resort make an awesome summer getaway with your family. Although mostly known for the snow resorts in winter, summer is a great time to visit to experience Big Bear Lake’s clear sky, sunshine, and relaxing summer vibes. The famous Big Bear Mountain ski resorts, Snow Summit and Bear Mountain, transform from snowboard parks to mountain bike parks, tubing parks, and scenic views.

Tucked away in the San Bernardino National Forest, this mountain town is not just for winter visits. Summer brings high temperatures, clear days, and endless fun on the lake water and mountain trails. We visited as a family for the first time in 2022 and will be making it a tradition. Just over two hours from San Diego and Los Angeles, Big Bear, CA, is a must-do for anyone in Southern California. Throughout our trip, we asked why we waited so long to explore Big Bear in summer!

WHERE IS BIG BEAR LAKE, CALIFORNIA?

Big Bear Lake is located in the San Bernadino National Forest. In just over a two-hour drive from Los Angeles or San Diego, you will relax in Southern California’s only four-season resort full of adventurous options. Order your free visitor guide before your trip here to get excited about your trip, or pick one up at the visitor center when you come into town.

DRIVING TO BIG BEAR LAKE, CA

The drive to Big Bear Lake, California, is a beautiful but curvy drive up the mountain. The road is filled with many sharp and sudden turns while bordering the San Bernardino Mountains edge on the way up. I highly recommend Dramamine if anybody in your vehicle is prone to car sickness. Cellular service is spotty on the way up, so take your time to keep your Big Bear Mountain adventure a success.

The drive to Big Bear Lake takes just over 2 1/2 hours from San Diego and a little over 2 hours from Los Angeles. Here are my favorite things to help keep a road trip relaxing with kids! There are several areas to pull over and take in the view. Spring and summer bring stunning wildflower views. It is amazing the difference 100 miles can make!

BEST SUMMER ACTIVITIES IN BIG BEAR

I was blown away by everything to do during the summer in Big Bear Lake when I first started looking into our trip. The best part is that many of the best things (in our opinion) were free activities. However, do not get me wrong; you can drop some cash in Big Bear if you want to! Here are our favorite summer activities and restaurants to help you plan your Big Bear Lake trip.

STOP BY THE BIG BEAR VISITOR CENTER

I recommend stopping by the Big Bear Visitor Center when you first come into town to grab the free visitor guide, maps, and any additional brochures for activities you are interested in. You can also ask about current weather or road conditions that may impact your plans.

In addition, if you plan to hike any trails where the parking requires an Adventure Pass, you can purchase it here for $5/day. If you have a National Park America the Beautiful Annual Pass, you can use it instead of the Adventure Pass. Hang it on your mirror like in the National Park, and you are good to go!

SNOW SUMMIT SKI RESORT SUMMER ADVENTURES

Snow Summit Ski Resort may be a snowboarding paradise in winter, but mountain bikers take the hills come summer. I was set on trying this adventure until I realized our son was not quite ready, but the resort had several additional options for our younger kids.

SNOW SUMMIT BIKE PARK

The Snow Summit Bike Park is a highlight for any mountain biker. Visitors can purchase a lift ticket for the mountain bike trails that have replaced the ski runs earlier in the year. Mountain bike rentals are available as well. This is clearly a highlight of the area and a do-not-miss for any mountain biking family!

I thought this would be great as a father/son adventure, but when we checked it out, we realized the mountain biking was a little aggressive for our son’s skill level this year. We opted to explore other options around the resort and were not disappointed.

SNOW SUMMIT SCENIC SKY CHAIR

The Scenic Sky Chair was a highlight of our trip. It also allowed us to check out the bike park to decide the right choice for our family before dropping the lift ticket fee and $140 to rent a bike for my husband. The Scenic Sky Chair delivered great views and was a perfect option for our family of four. Even our one-year-old could participate!

Everyone will love the views, but when you get to the top, you can take a moment to enjoy lunch or beverages at the Skyline Tavern. You can even place your order before heading up to avoid crowds at lunch!

From here, you can see the mountains or “boonas” as my daughter would say (thanks to her favorite book, I Love the Mountains). The moment you step off the chair lift, the highest peak in California, San Gorgonio, will stun you! Wander around the top of the mountain before heading down the chair lift.

As you enjoy your downhill ride, the views of Big Bear Lake are incredible. Although the tickets were almost $40/adult, the kids were free with our paid adult tickets, so the whole family enjoyed the ride for under $80! We all agreed this was one of the best things we did during our visit to Big Bear Lake!

Towards the end of the scenic sky chair ride, the tubing run caught our son’s eye! We knew where we were headed next! We had just enough time before closing to get in some runs.

TUBING AT GRIZZLY RUN

The tubing run is super fun for kids and parents. It was a perfect thing to do with our son because he could experience some independent thrill, but it was not too intense for him! To ride the tube, your child must be 42″ tall. Only one rider is allowed per tube, so no lap-sitting with parents.

In addition to the biking and tubing adventures, there are rock climbing walls, a bungee trampoline, a zip line, and miniature golf to satisfy your kids at the Big Bear Mountain Resort. You can chill and spend an afternoon here easily. I would recommend considering the $44-$59 Adventure Day Pass if you plan to spend some time here. This allows your child to experience unlimited access to everything in the resort.

THE ALPINE SLIDE AT MAGIC MOUNTAIN

I read about the Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain when I first started looking into the best family-friendly things to do in Big Bear. The Alpine Slide is California’s only bobsled experience. Riders take a chair lift to the top and then ride the 1/4-mile concrete track down. Riders must be at least 36″ tall and can go as fast or slow as they want. Some turns are pretty sharp, so that it can be a real thrill!

Our son loved this and was so pumped about it! He was originally skeptical about trying it on his own, but once he started, he did not want to stop. However, at $9/ride, we had to limit his alpine slide runs. The tickets are purchased with CASH ONLY, so come prepared with enough for the rides you plan to do. They do have an ATM, if you forget. If you have multiple kids riding or know your child will love it, I recommend the five rides for $40. You can check current hours and pricing here.

When you first pull into the parking lot, The Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain looks a little rough around the edges. However, it was a massive highlight for our son, and we even returned for a second visit during our week in Big Bear Lake, California. The views of Big Bear Lake from the top were awesome, and we all took turns bombing down the hill. You will be surprised how fast you can go if you do not brake too much during your run!

We visited during the week, so the lines were non-existent. To start, you’ll enter a container-like shed to sign a waiver on an iPad and receive your wristband for the day. After the shed, you’ll purchase your tickets at the ticket counter and get in line for the chairlift. At the top, you will roll your slide to the start of the Alpine Slide. There is a first-time rider side that goes a little slower, which is great for kids on their first run!

There is a shaded seating area for people to enjoy snacks while watching riders come down the slide. Our daughter loved cheering for all of us as we came racing down.

Although the property is mostly known for the Alpine slide, they have expanded the options to include fun for the family year-round! On the property, visitors can enjoy seasonal water slides, tubing runs, an 18-hole mini golf course, a cart-style zipline (The Soaring Eagle), go-karts, and the new mountain roller coaster, the Mineshaft Coaster.

MINESHAFT COASTER

The Mineshaft Coaster was a surprise hit as well. We each took a turn with our son, which was $30 a ride for an adult and child ticket. Riders must be 38″ and over age 3. You can check current rates and hours here. The display of broken phones in the loading area was enough to ensure I put mine away, so I don’t have many pictures!

As the only mountain coaster in California, the track takes you up the mountain and down the 1-mile track, where you can control your speed once again (up to 27mph). My son loved this, and they offer a video and photo package after your ride that is fun to check out! When visiting Big Bear Lake in summer, a stop for some thrills at Magic Mountain will surely make for some family fun!

RELAX IN BOULDER BAY PARK

I was so happy we chose Boulder Bay Park for our first Big Bear Lake, CA sunset. Between the lush landscape and panoramic lake view, Boulder Bay Park was a perfect spot to enjoy before dinner in Big Bear Village. Kids enjoyed scootering around, and families were picnicking at the tables with incredible lake views.

There is a marina you can also walk down onto for closer lake views. Sadly, during our 2022 visit, the lake was about 15 feet lower than the average in June due to California’s drought. Many beautiful lake home docks were damaged and lying in the mud where water should be along the shoreline.

I am anxious to see the difference this season after the rainy atmospheric events Southern California experienced in 2023.

TAKE IN BIG BEAR LAKE VIEWS FROM A BOAT

Big Bear Lake is known for all kinds of lake activities and water sports- boating, kayaking, jet skiing, paddle boarding, tubing, wakeboarding, and fishing, to name a few! There are marinas all around the lake for private boats to obtain permits. In addition, most marinas have rentals for a variety of water sports available. When visiting Big Bear Lake in summer, make a point to get out on the water!

BOAT RENTALS AT PINE KNOT MARINA

We loved renting our pontoon boat from Pine Knot Marina! We went there on a whim, trying to catch a boat tour but had the schedule wrong. It was a blessing in disguise because we rented a rad pontoon for our family to cruise the lake with for an hour. Another group was renting jet skis which looked like a lot of fun if we had older kids! I will update you on a jet ski rental once our son is older.

We had the best time exploring the shoreline on our own schedule. The marina gives you a map and a basic outline of how to spend your hour. They also review the important buoys on Big Bear Lake and what they mean so you stay in the right places! Seeing places like Boulder Bay Park from the other side is awesome!

You can check current rental offerings and rates here. The boat had a lounging pad, great shade, lifevests, and Bluetooth speakers. Our whole family agreed this was one of the best things we did during our summer visit to Big Bear Lake, California!

BOAT TOURS

Although we did not take a boat tour during our 2022 trip, several tours are available. We found ourselves on Pine Knot Marina trying to cruise Big Bear Lake on the Miss Liberty, which I had read was an awesome 90-minute narrated tour of the lake. Miss Liberty also does sunset cruises with snacks and beverages. Check current rates and times here.

I have also heard great things about the Big Bear Lake Pirate Ship boat tour! Check current rates and times here, and come prepared for some laughter! We will check this out after our next trip, and I will update you here.

WANDER THROUGH BIG BEAR VILLAGE

Big Bear Village is the hub of restaurants and shopping in the Big Bear Lake resort. There are so many cute shops and art galleries to wander through. Many of our favorite restaurants are located in the village. At night, holiday lights adorn the trees, and horse-drawn carriages cruise the streets.

O KOO RAN

O Koo Ran is my favorite store in Big Bear Lake! The shop is filled with home goods, clothing, shoes, gifts, and cute baby gifts. They had various outdoor and camping gifts and unique jewelry and accessories. My daughter was excited to find the Baby Bear version of her favorite puppet book series here! Such a fun souvenir.

The store reminded me of my favorite store in Cambria, CA, Home Arts. I will stop by to shop O Koo Ran whenever I visit. This is a great place to pick up fun moments from your trip or gifts for those you love.

CRUISE THE STANFIELD MARSH PRESERVE BOARDWALK

The Stanfield Marsh Wildlife and Fowl Preserve Boardwalk is a great walk for families during summer visits. The 1.6-mile boardwalk is flat and stroller/wheelchair friendly. This is a beautiful place to visit during sunset in Big Bear Lake, California.

Local residents enjoy jogging in the evening as visitors stroll along, watching the marsh for animal action. We enjoyed strolling along and taking in the views from the bench at the end of the boardwalk. This trail is another example of a free activity that was a hit with the whole family.

OFF-ROAD HOLCOMB VALLEY ROAD

Since we got our Subaru, the kids have loved going for “bumpy rides” whenever an off-road adventure presents itself. When I read about heading up into the San Bernardino National Forest to off-road into Gold Rush history, I knew this adventure was perfect for our family! As an added bonus, our son was entering fourth grade, so the teacher in me knew this adventure would align with the social studies curriculum he was about to embrace!

Holcomb Valley Road is 10.8 miles long, with a 1,164 elevation gain from Big Bear Lake into the San Bernardino Mountains. The scenic AWD/4WD road has great views and lots of history. You can drive the 10.8 miles through or take some detours and explore gold rush history high in the mountains.

Whether you detour or not, the panoramic views are great on your way back into Big Bear Valley. On the right, you will see the remnants of the “Lucky Baldwin” Mine, built in 1945. You will also see Baldwin Lake, a neighbor to Big Bear Lake.

2N09 – GOLD FEVER TRAIL

We enjoyed returning to the gold rush days on the self-guided Gold Fever Trail. There are 12 stops on the drive, each with markers and areas to get out and walk around. Pick up your brochure at the Big Bear Visitor Center before heading up the mountain so you can follow along.

We missed a few stops along the way, but here are a few highlights. This drive was a memorable adventure for all of us! Summer in Big Bear is a perfect time to explore this area.

TWO GUN BILL’S SALOON

A small walk takes you to the remnants of an old cabin rumored to be the famous saloon.

HANGMAN’S TREE

This tree was rumored to be the symbol of justice in Holcomb Valley during the discovery of gold in the area. As people flocked to the area, so did murder and crime. Outlaws me their end on a tree just like this (the real tree is believed to be a stump nearby)

BELLEVILLE

This single cabin is an example of the cabins that filled Holcomb Valley in 1861, when 1,500 people lived here.

ARRASTRES (GOLD ORE GRINDER)

The stone remains of one of the oldest tools for gold mining are located just next to the Belleville cabin. In the peak of Holcomb Valley’s gold mining days, over 100 of these arrastres could be found in this valley.

ROSS’ GRAVE

A miner was accidentally killed while cutting down a tree and was buried immediately. This is his grave. Kind of morbid but interesting to see. Volunteers build the log fence to keep vandals out.

PYGMY CABIN SITE

Across the road from Ross’ grave, a short trail leads to the Pygmy cabin remains. Nobody understands why the cabin was built so short. Sadly only small remnants remain as a fire destroyed the cabin in 1983.

BIG BEAR JEEP EXPERIENCE TOURS

If you don’t have AWD or 4WD, the Big Bear Jeep Experience Tours allow you to go off-road and see the Gold Rush remnants in Big Bear. The Holcomb Valley Tour allows you to drive a Jeep along the Gold Fever Trail with a guide.

In addition, Big Bear Jeep Experience offers a variety of off-roading adventures in other areas of Big Bear. Now that our daughter is older, we are excited to The Squeeze and John Bull, Jr. tours! I will update you on these tours after our visit this summer!

DRIVE SCENIC HIGHWAY 38 AROUND BIG BEAR LAKE

Known as the Rim of the World Scenic Byway, Highway 38 is a scenic drive through much of the San Bernardino National Forest and runs along the North shore of Big Bear Lake, California. Unlike the southern shore lined with cabins and private docks, the north shore has incredible lake views. Enjoy the scenic drive, or pull over to explore the shoreline and watch the variety of water sports happening on the lake in front of you!

The North Shore is also home to several popular campgrounds and hiking trails. The Cougar Crest Trail and Woodland Interpretive Trail have parking off Highway 38. In addition, the Big Bear Discovery Center and Alpine Pedal Path are highlighted along the scenic byway on the north shore.

BIKE THE ALPINE PEDAL PATH

Our son thought this was one of the best things to do in summer in Big Bear. There is something so free about an easy bike ride along a scenic route! The Alpine Pedal Path is just over 3 miles of paved pathway along the north shore of Big Bear Lake.

Due to the scenery, this pathway is popular year-round. The flat road makes it a biking destination, especially for kids. However, local residents also enjoy walking their leashed dogs along the pathway. The path is also stroller and wheelchair friendly for those looking to walk or jog. There are several benches for relaxing or picnicking along the way. This is a perfect stop during the beautiful summer days in Big Bear Lake.

GOLF THE BEAR MOUNTAIN COURSE

If golfing interests you, Big Bear’s only golf course, the 9-hole Bear Mountain Course, makes for a fun couple of hours of golf. Since the course is only 9-holes, you can head out first thing and still have plenty of time for adventures in the day! You can reserve your tee time up to 30 days ahead. It is rad to see your ball fly at 7,000 feet altitude!

VISIT THE BIG BEAR ALPINE ZOO

My kids loved visiting this Alpine Zoo. I wasn’t sure what to expect when we headed in, but I was pleasantly surprised by how nice the facilities were. The Big Bear Alpine Zoo is home to over 85 animal and bird species and primarily serves as an animal rehabilitation facility. They take in injured, orphaned animals, hoping to care for them until they return to the wild.

The Big Bear Alpine Zoo welcomes visitors year-round. Winter storms may delay opening hours to clear snow. Check current hours and pricing here. A small playground inside the zoo makes for an enjoyable stop or place to picnic during your visit. The 2.5-acre grounds are stroller and wheelchair friendly; however, they are unavailable to rent.

GLOW BOWL AT THE BOWLING BARN

Looking for some family fun at night? The Bowling Barn turns off the lights and turns on the glow and music every night around 8 pm. Weekends start earlier, so check current hours here.

Between the atmosphere, lanes for all ages, arcade, snacks, and drinks, all will surely enjoy a night at the Bowling Barn!

EXPLORE THE BIG BEAR DISCOVERY CENTER

The Big Bear Discovery Center is a great place for families. The Discovery Center is the largest visitor center in Big Bear Valley and offers a variety of programs to teach visitors about caring for the forest surrounding them. Although it has been closed for remodeling, the Big Bear Discovery Center is set to reopen in June 2023.

In addition to the indoor exhibits and crafts, rangers are available outside with displays, art projects, coloring, and other hands-on activities for kids. There is also a short 1/2-mile Nature Loop to enjoy. You can also pick up Adventure Passes and trail brochures here. Check current hours here as they were closed several times we tried to go.

HIKING ADVENTURES IN BIG BEAR

With over 100 miles of mountain biking and hiking trails, Big Bear has something for visitors of all skill levels. One of the best things you can do in summer in Big Bear is to get out on a hiking trail to enjoy the incredible views. The Big Bear Discovery Center has a great list of hiking trails in the area. Here are a few of our favorite family-friendly hikes in Big Bear, CA.

LAKE VIEWS FROM THE CASTLE ROCK TRAIL

The Castle Rock trail is a 2.7-mile round-trip hike up to some incredible views. With an elevation gain of 700 feet, you are climbing for the first mile of the trail. Large rocks in metal cylinders mark the trail, so keep watching for them as some struggle to stay on course with the side trails that tend to branch off for different views. Don’t forget to turn around during your climb to check out the incredible views of Big Bear Lake!

About a mile up the trail, there are some incredible lake views and rocks to scramble around on the Castle Rock Boulder Lookout. This was a great resting and snack area for our kids. They loved playing around on the rocks for a bit. Our daughter wanted to hike the rest of the way herself!

When you reach the top, the boulders are a lot of fun to climb, and the views are incredible. This is a great spot for a lunch picnic before heading down the hill back to your car. Although the climb up was tiring, the way back is all downhill. The hike took about 3 hours, but we had several snack stops and much 1-year-old rock scrambling.

The trailhead parking fills early as this is a highly trafficked trail. You need an Adventure Pass or National Park Pass to park at this trailhead. A small lot just east of the trailhead on Big Bear Boulevard’s north side (lakeside) fills by 9 am in summer.

From here, you follow Big Bear Boulevard for a short distance to the marked trailhead on the southern side of the road. The pictures above show the parking around 8:30 am when we arrived, the walk down to the trailhead, the trailhead, and the parking on the road when we finished our hike at 11:30 am.

FAMILY-FRIENDLY WOODLAND INTERPRETIVE TRAIL

Big Bear has many beautiful hiking trails, but the Woodland Interpretive Trail is awesome for hiking with young kids. At only 1.5 miles, the loop is lined with numbered panels that teach you about Big Bear Valley’s flora, fauna, and history.

You need to pick up the trail guide (or use this PDF) at the Big Bear Discovery Center for an explanation of each numbered panel.

Our one-year-old wanted to walk this one herself, and she did a great job. It took us about 90 minutes at this slower-than-average pace. However, this hiking trail was easy for her to navigate and mostly flat. Our BOB stroller would have worked out here too!

Some highlights were the views of summer in Big Bear. The ski runs that are packed in winter are green strips on the mountain between trees. The kids loved seeing trees filled with woodpecker holes and tracks from bugs decaying wood under the bark. Another highlight was this pile of sticks that is a woodrat “mansion.” The panels kept the kids engaged throughout the hike.

You will need an Adventure Pass for parking at the trailhead. Summer in Big Bear is a great time to hike and explore with your kids. The Woodland Interpretive Trail is a great pick!

LONGER SUMMER HIKES IN BIG BEAR WE HAVE NOT TRIED… YET!

These hikes are on my radar for when the kids are older, or we have a kid-free getaway. They both sound beautiful and tend to be very popular. Both trails require an Adventure Pass for parking at the trailhead.

PINE KNOT TRAIL TO GRAND VIEW POINT

The Pine Knot Trail has incredible views and is 6.9 miles out and back. With a climb of 1,158 feet to 7,784 feet of elevation, our young family has not taken this on yet. If you are interested in this challenge, check out this detailed trail guide from The Hiking Guy. An Adventure Pass is required for parking at the trailhead.

COUGAR CREST TRAIL

The Cougar Crest Trail is a very popular trail in Big Bear. This 5.6 miles out and back hike takes you up the mountain to jaw-dropping forest and lake views. You also join the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) for a bit. After 2 miles of climbing, the Crest Trail shines with stunning views. With an elevation climb of 750 feet, this trail is rated as moderately challenging. An Adventure Pass is required for parking at the trailhead.

BEST RESTAURANTS IN BIG BEAR

The downtown village of Big Bear is beautiful in summer. The streets are lined with busy restaurants filled with local and out-of-town visitors. Live music can be heard all around during the day, and the twinkle lights line the streets at night. In addition to the village area, Big Bear has some other culinary destinations along Big Bear Boulevard, just outside of the village. Here are some of our favorite places to eat in Big Bear Lake.

572 SOCIAL KITCHEN & LOUNGE

572 is located in the heart of Big Bear Village. The outdoor patio is large and perfect for summer days. Live music is abundant, the burgers are delicious, and the drinks are too! This is a great spot for families!

We loved our burgers, and the kids loved their snacks and sides. Check out the current menu here.

PEPPERCORN GRILLE

For a fine dining experience in Big Bear, try Peppercorn Grille. We were craving steak to celebrate Father’s Day, and this restaurant was a perfect solution. We enjoyed the filet, but I was also blown away by the macadamia nut-crusted halibut with black cherry maui onion marmalade. Delicious!

I highly recommend taking the outdoor patio in on a warm summer night. We enjoyed watching the horse-drawn carriages walk down the road, and the village lights gave a great ambiance. Reservations are recommended.

SAUCY MAMA’S PIZZERIA

We only grabbed this to-go, but the hand-tossed pizza was delicious. Saucy Mama’s Pizzeria is great for grabbing a quick bite, especially for bigger groups. The modern-day pizza parlor style makes it easy to grab a table and enjoy a game on TV. The drink selection is awesome as well.

Sometimes after a big day of adventure, you need a quick solution to take back to your accommodations. Saucy Mama’s is great for quick, to-go dinners during summer in Big Bear. Or grab to-go as a sunset picnic at Boulder Bay Park or Stanfield Marsh Preserve. Save your receipt for 10% off sweet treats next door at North Pole Fudge & Ice Cream Co.

ICE CREAM IN BIG BEAR VILLAGE

Ice cream stops are big in our family, especially after outdoor adventures. It is always fun to pick up special sweet treats while shopping around the village. Check out Ben & Jerry’s or North Pole Fudge & Ice Cream Co for a delicious treat to beat the summer heat!

BIG BEAR LAKE BREWING COMPANY

Big Bear Lake Brewing Company is for you if you want to try locally brewed craft beer. The brewing company is located in the heart of Big Bear Village and has a variety of beers to sample and purchase to-go. In addition, the menu has some unique appetizers (check out the avocado bomb) and burgers that make this a great spot in town for the beer lover!

OLD GERMAN DELI

Big Bear’s Old German Deli is a great stop in summer. Established in 1916, this small deli serves authentic German cuisine and has a small marketplace filled with various German specialties, like imported chocolates and beers. You can grab take-out sandwiches for picnics on adventures or dine on the small outdoor patio. The potato salad and sausage platters make you feel like you are in the middle of Oktoberfest during Big Bear’s summer heat. Check out the menu and current hours here.

CAFÉ CRÊPE

Café Crêpe is a gem on Big Bear Boulevard! This drive-thru coffee and crêperie will make breakfast or lunch a treat. Outdoor seating is available if you want to eat there. We had a variety of savory and sweet crêpes, and the kids loved every bite. I still dream of my honey lavender latte and cannot wait to have it all again this summer!

In addition, Café Crêpe prides itself on sustainability by sourcing local ingredients, using organic and fair trade coffees, minimizing to-to packaging, and even offering a $0.25 discount if you bring your own mug!

DANK DONUTS

Last but not least, one of our favorite places in Big Bear! Located in the Moonridge area of Big Bear, heading towards the winter ski resorts, Dank Donuts is a funky shop that should not be passed by. Our kids love donuts, so we stopped in to pick up a special breakfast treat. The donuts were delicious (my favorite was the blueberry!), and they make vegan and gluten-free donuts too! You can also grab breakfast burritos and avocado toast to start your day.

We also discovered and LOVED Dank Donuts’ summertime Taco Tuesday. The street tacos were awesome and made to order. They have a great variety of beer and wine for your taco picks (seasonal Juneshine and Pizza Port beers to name a few). The place was packed with tons of local residents, as this is the place to dine on Tuesday nights in Big Bear. The whole night was great Southern California vibes – great food, drinks, music, and chill people.

Super pumped to try the Deli Moonridge at Dank Donuts this summer! The sandwiches sound amazing, and I will update here after our visit! Dank Donuts delivers delicious eats for breakfast, lunch, and dinner during summer in Big Bear.

BEST DRINKS IN BIG BEAR

BARREL 33

If you want a fun place to try different wines, head to Barrel 33. They carry a great selection of varietals from across California, and the staff knows the wines well and can design tastings to meet your palate. They also have sangria, beers, and ciders.

Between the outdoor patio, live music, great small bites, flatbreads, and comfy wine barrel furniture, Barrel 33 is a place for local residents and visitors to gather and relax! Dogs and children are welcome too! This is a great spot to kick back and enjoy summer in Big Bear.

HOME OF THE HANGOVER

I don’t think I have ever mentioned a liquor store in my destination guides before, but Home of the Hangover deserves to be on the list. The selection in the store blew me away. This store has a little bit of everything and is the place to stock up on your favorites for your trip. Your beverage of choice is a great addition to a sunset picnic at Boulder Bay Park or Stanfield Marsh Wildlife Preserve (which happens to be next door).

Home of the Hangvoer prides itself on its craft beer selection and rare whiskey and scotches. However, I was thrilled about their hard kombucha selection, which deserves mention. Traveling out of San Diego can make grabbing my favorites hard to find. Not only was the variety impressive, but they also had seasonal flavors that are rare to find!

WHERE TO STAY IN BIG BEAR

There are so many awesome places to stay when visiting Big Bear. Here are a few that we have enjoyed and others that we want to check out next time!

CABIN RENTAL

There are so many options for cabin rentals in Big Bear. These are a great option for families traveling together and other large groups. VRBO is a great option for finding cabins of all sizes and price points. You can search with specific filters that will give you an ideal match for your trip- things like a hot tub, on the lake, etc.

Friends of ours also have a great 3-bedroom lakeside cabin on AirBnb. Check it out; the location is incredible, and they are awesome hosts!

THE LODGE AT BIG BEAR LAKE

You cannot beat the location here. The Lodge at Big Bear Lake is right in the heart of the village, making most of your trip within walking distance. They have a variety of rooms available, and it is pet-friendly. Some rooms have bunk beds, which is always exciting for kids. They offer free parking, a huge pool, and kids’ game/arcade room!

SNOW LAKE LODGE

The Snow Lake Lodge is awesome for longer trips. The rooms are decently priced and are suite-style for families. We had plenty of storage and a fireplace in each room. Having a full-size kitchen is great when traveling with kids. They also have BBQ’s to use, which is awesome for summer in Big Bear.

It is an older place, but they did a great job, and everything was clean. Housekeeping was attentive, and the front desk has a pool table and DVD movies for rent. Wife and parking are free. We had a giant bedroom which was great for us and would be even better for snowboards/skis in winter. We brought groceries and had breakfast in the room each morning.

One downside is that there are no stairs, so make sure to request a ground-floor room if stairs are a struggle for anyone traveling. Many times there is a two-night minimum when booking. Pets are not allowed. Our kids had a great time in the pool between adventures!

BEST WESTERN BIG BEAR CHATEAU

We are excited to check this place out this summer! The Best Western Big Bear Chateau has large rooms with balconies and fireplaces. In addition, breakfast, Wifi, and parking are all included in your rate. The pool looks great, and so does the game room! I will update you here after our stay this summer!

MAP

This map was created with Wanderlog, the best trip planner app on iOS and Android

Summer in Big Bear is so much fun! What is missing from my list? We can’t wait to come back in winter!

CALIFORNIA, CENTRAL CA, COVID-19 TRAVEL, HIKING, NATIONAL PARKS, ROAD TRIP - SEQUOIA AND YOSEMITE

VISITING YOSEMITE WITH KIDS

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Yosemite National Park is a must-visit for everyone, but visiting with kids will surely create an incredibly memorable trip. No matter how old your kids are, Yosemite National Park is filled with fun adventures for your family. I grew up going to Yosemite often, and I love that we are continuing the same tradition with our kids.

In this post, I will give you all the information you need to plan an incredible trip to Yosemite National Park. I will cover important considerations for planning your Yosemite vacation and our favorite things to do in the different areas of the park. I will also cover our favorite kid-friendly hikes and restaurants in Yosemite. You will not be disappointed whether you visit in the sunshine or snow.

PLANNING A TRIP TO YOSEMITE WITH KIDS

This section is for you if you are beginning your planning process! The first step is to decide when to go and secure your lodging reservation. From here, you will know what entrance you will use to enter Yosemite National Park. Then you can begin pinpointing what you want to do, build your itinerary, and pack accordingly!

WHEN TO VISIT YOSEMITE

One thing that makes Yosemite unique is that it is exceptional any time of year. You know your family best, so deciding when to visit will be based on what type of experience you are looking for in Yosemite National Park. For our family, it is Spring and Summer. How about you? Here are some of the pros and cons of each season.

SPRING IN YOSEMITE

As the snow melts in spring, the waterfalls begin flowing strong and colorful wildflowers paint the valley floor. Roads at higher elevations in the park begin to open, allowing you to access more of the park. May is a great month to experience both the spring and summer perks of Yosemite Valley.

SUMMER IN YOSEMITE

Summer brings longer days of hotter temperatures and heavier crowds but also beautiful conditions for biking around the valley and swimming and rafting in the Merced River. These are some of our favorite activities, so summer is one of our family’s favorite times to visit. However, by August, the waterfalls are a tiny drizzle versus the luscious flow of Spring.

FALL IN YOSEMITE

As fall approaches, the temperatures begin to cool as the days shorten. Finally, however, the fall colors begin to pop. Early fall, like September, is an excellent time to experience some of the fall changes with a bit of the warmer temperatures from summer.

WINTER IN YOSEMITE

The Winter months bring a wonderland of snow to the valley floor. The Badger Pass Ski Area gives you all the options for a fun day of skiing, snowboarding, or tubing. I have incredible memories as a kid of ice skating under the stars in Curry Village and snow sledding in the different snow play areas of the park (Crane Flat is a highlight). However, several roads in the park, such as Glacier Point Road and Tioga Pass, are closed due to icy or slippery conditions on the road. Always carry chains and check current road conditions when heading to snowy areas.

WHERE TO STAY WHEN VISITING YOSEMITE WITH KIDS

I love staying in the park, but these reservations book 6 months to a year in advance. Nothing compares to opening the blinds in the morning to incredible views of the granite monoliths above you. Also, when traveling to national parks with kids, staying in the park allows you to get going faster as most people outside have a 30-60 minute drive to get into the valley. Visit the official Yosemite National Park lodging site to see what is available.

YOSEMITE VALLEY LODGE

We love the Yosemite Valley Lodge. The location is exceptional at the start of the Yosemite Falls trail. You can hear the roaring waterfall in your room at night. In addition, the buildings are along one of the many paved trails and bicycle paths leading to our favorite swimming spot, the Swinging Bridge over the Merced River. We love the Laurel building, so our view faces the bicycle path and is closest to the river.

ROOM AMENITIES

The lodge buildings are two stories, so every room has a balcony or patio. This is perfect for listening to the falls with coffee in the morning or enjoying a glass of wine after a full day while the kids fall asleep. During COVID closures, we also enjoyed eating take-out meals on our patio.

Yosemite Valley Lodge Second Story Traditional Room in the Laurel Building

Each room has a mini-fridge, coffee maker, television, space heater, and fan (no A/C). Various room types are available, but my son’s favorite is the bunk bed rooms (in the Hemlock building). The kids had fun peeking over to say “hello” when someone was using the sink. I love to see the type of room I am booking from real traveler photos, so here are more pictures of our different rooms!

Yosemite Valley Lodge Bunk Bed Room in the Hemlock Building
Yosemite Valley Lodge First Story Traditional Room in the Laurel Building
THE LODGE PROPERTY

The large lodge property has a shuttle stop, making it a convenient start for morning exploration. In addition, the Yosemite Valley Lodge has a gift shop (with snacks and light groceries), a quick-service restaurant (The Base Camp Eatery), a nicer sit-down restaurant and lounge (The Mountain Room), an amphitheater to catch a ranger program, a swimming pool, and a bicycle rental stand. There is free wifi when you stay at the lodge, but it is limited, spotty, and not fast enough for television streaming or Zoom-style meetings.

CURRY VILLAGE

Curry Village is another great option for families in the heart of Yosemite Valley. Once known as Half Dome Village, Curry Village is located at the start of several popular trailheads – the John Muir Trail, Vernal Falls Mist Trail, Half Dome, and Mirror Lake. Curry Village has a variety of tent cabins and cabin rooms that can make your summer stay especially unique.

TENT CABINS

The tent cabins of Curry Village are a fun experience for families, especially those with older kids. It is important to note that they do not have electrical outlets, and you must lock all food and toiletries outside in bear lockers. The bathroom and showers are a shared building for campers. There are quiet hours to ensure everyone’s enjoyment. There are no televisions, rollaway beds, or cribs available. I have great memories from childhood and am excited to share them with my kids in a few years. This is more a match for families with elementary or middle school-age kids, not infants or young toddlers.

Curry Village is home to one of our favorite lunch spots – the craft beer Pizza Deck. They also have a restaurant, bar, gift shop, ice cream shop, swimming pool, and bicycle rental stand. The property is large and a great place to stop for a meal, even if you are not staying there.

OUTSIDE THE PARK LODGING OPTIONS

If you cannot secure in-park lodging, book something outside of the park with free cancellation. We always use Expedia because it is so easy to modify your reservation, and you can often book a reservation with no deposit. You can continue checking Travel Yosemite for cancellations to stay in the park. Some of our favorite accommodations outside of the park are the Rush Creek Lodge (Highway 120), Tenaya Lodge (Highway 41), and Yosemite View Lodge (Highway 140).

HOW TO GET TO YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK

Once you know where you are staying, you can determine your route and what entrance you will be using to access Yosemite National Park. There are four entrances you can use to access Yosemite Valley.

  1. Big Oak Flat Entrance on Highway 120 from the northwest – commonly used by those coming from the Bay Area, San Francisco, and the Silicon Valley (about 40 minutes to Yosemite Valley)
  2. Arch Rock (El Portal) Entrance on Highway 140 from the west – commonly used by those coming from San Jose, Monterey, and Merced (about 22 minutes to Yosemite Valley)
  3. Fish Camp South Entrance on Highway 41 – commonly used by those coming from Los Angeles, San Diego, and Sequoia National Park (about 60 minutes to Yosemite Valley)
  4. Tioga Pass East Entrance on Highway 120 – commonly used by those coming from Las Vegas, Lake Tahoe, or visitors to the Eastern Sierra Nevada Mountain Range on Highway 395 (about 1.25 hours to Yosemite Valley). During the winter, Highway 120 closes due to snow. Therefore, to access Yosemite Valley in winter, you must plan one of the first entrances. According to the National Park Service, it is usually open from late May/early June through November. Check current conditions to know if Tioga Pass is open as it is always weather permitting which can make planning difficult if you are visiting in May or November.
Places mapped by Wanderlog, a trip planner on iOS and Android

You can also enter Yosemite National Park to access the Hetch Hetchy Reservoir from the Hetch Hetchy Entrance near Big Oak Flat. However, the Yosemite Valley is not accessible from this park area. This area is a great place to explore but plan at least a half-day to visit if you are looking to hike around the area. You can read more about hiking and exploring the Hetch Hetchy Area here. If you are heading to the San Francisco area after your visit, consider stopping here on your way out of the park!

PARK ENTRANCE RESERVATIONS

2023 Update: Reservations will not be required for the 2023 summer season! You can confirm the current status of reservations here.

Since COVID, Yosemite National Park now requires reservations for entry during peak months. From late May to September, you must make a reservation in advance to enter the park between 6 am-4 pm. However, if you are staying in the park, your lodging reservation is your park reservation, and you can skip this section. If not, knowing the timing and securing your entry reservation is crucial.

Reservations are released on a particular day in March. In 2022, 70% of reservations were released at 8 am PST on March 23. Follow the link above to ensure you know the date these will be released. 30% of reservations are released seven days prior. These reservations are gone immediately, similar to sunrise at Haleakala National Park in Maui. I recommend you use the same strategy I did with Haleakala and sign in on the Recreation.gov app versus the website.

Once you secure a park reservation, make sure to print it out. If your lodging or camping is in the park, print the confirmation page to show at the entrance gate. Unfortunately, there is little to no cell service at the entrance gates, so you cannot pull it up on your cell phone.

YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK FEES

As of 2022, park entrance fees are $35/vehicle for seven days. You can confirm the current park fees here. Park entrances are open 24 hours per day. If you plan to visit any other national parks in the year following your visit, I highly recommend getting the $80 America The Beautiful Annual National Parks pass. In addition, if you are visiting a national park with kids, don’t miss out on the free national park annual pass available to every 4th grader!

DRIVING & TRANSPORTATION IN YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK

I am a huge fan of driving into the valley ourselves. I love the flexibility it gives us to stop and check out any views we want. However, it is important to know that gas is non-existent in the valley. There are two gas stations inside the park. One is in Crane Flat, just after the Big Oak Entrance, and the other is in Wawona, just after the southern entrance to the park. So make sure to fill up in the town just outside the park before heading in to avoid unnecessary stress.

BIKING IN THE VALLEY

During peak months, parking is a struggle. I love staying in the park because it allows us to park our car and have a central home base to venture from. My absolute favorite thing is biking around the valley for a day. You can either rent bikes or bring them with you, allowing you to explore without the stress of parking at each stop. You can read all of the details about biking in Yosemite Valley here.

SHUTTLE BUSES

The shuttle buses in Yosemite are an excellent way to explore some of the top places in Yosemite Valley. The shuttles are free and run between 7 am – 10 pm. With 19 stops, they cover the valley and allow you to jump on and off to enjoy all of the best places without the parking hassle. In addition, the Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System (YARTS) can bring you into the park from nearby airports and towns.

WHAT TO PACK FOR A KID-FRIENDLY TRIP TO YOSEMITE

In addition to regular vacation packing, make sure you bring some fun things to enrich your national park trip! You can read more about our favorite things to bring to a national park here. Always bring a refillable water bottle, as the park has refill stations. I like to have a large one in the room too. Print necessary confirmations and directions; you cannot always rely on cell service to pull things up on your phone. Don’t forget your annual park pass if you are using one!

If you plan to hike, pack a pair of comfortable hiking shoes and socks, plenty of water, and a small first aid kit. If hiking with kids, make sure to have comfortable hiking shoes for them, and if hiking with a baby, a carrier that can support them if needed. My son loves his hydration pack and binoculars when we hike. I love that he can hold his stuff! We love our hiking backpack and always bring extra carabiners for whatever you may need to attach! We love to hang a small outdoor blanket for impromptu picnics or happy hour!

Consider asking for a small refrigerator for leisurely breakfast in the morning when booking your accommodations. We love to pack yogurt and granola, muffins, bananas, milk, cereal, and bars to help us get up and out faster than going to breakfast each morning. Our son has refrigerated meds due to Cystic Fibrosis, so this is a must for us. Many hotels will bring one in for free if it is not already there.

In addition, if traveling with a baby, check whether you can request a pack-and-play or crib. A small stroller is nice for cruising around the park at bedtime. This blanket is the cutest for a national park visit. I love having one of these disposable diaper pails for longer trips to avoid diaper smells in the room. I also love this pop-up laundry hamper to keep the dirty laundry together in our room. We also love our stainless YETI tumblers for coffee in the morning and whatever you choose for an evening stroll!

BUILDING SCHEMA

I love getting my kids excited about the national park we are visiting. Check out books at your local library to read at bedtime and get them excited about the sights and wildlife they may see. If you want a keepsake, I love this inexpensive Yosemite Rookie Reader for younger kids or this Yosemite Guide or National Parks guide for older elementary kids.

If you plan on visiting many national parks, consider starting their Junior Ranger National Park Passport book on this trip. Then, you can stop in the visitor center to stamp the passport or book cover inside! It will become a keepsake with the dates of your visits right inside!

THINGS TO DO WITH KIDS IN YOSEMITE

Here is a list of our favorite places to go when exploring Yosemite with kids. I cover our favorite sights, kid-friendly hikes, and restaurants in Yosemite. I’ve grouped the locations by area to help with planning. After you check out the list, check out my posts on different itineraries for two and 3-day trips to Yosemite.

BEST SIGHTS TO SEE DRIVING INTO THE VALLEY

No matter the entrance you use to start your Yosemite adventure, there will be pullouts and views along the way to your destination in the valley. Here are a few of our favorite stops when we use the southern entrance from Oakhurst on Highway 41. This is the route you would use if you come from Sequoia of Kings Canyon National Parks.

MARIPOSA GROVE – HOME OF THE GIANT SEQUOIAS

Just after your entrance, you will see the turn towards the Mariposa Grove Welcome Plaza and parking area for Mariposa Grove. Although this is a more extended stop, the giant sequoia trees are sure to “wow” your kids. Mariposa Grove is home to over 500 giant sequoias and the famed California tunnel tree.

The welcome plaza has over 300 parking spaces, and the grove is a 2-mile hike down the road. However, shuttles run seasonally (April – November) that take you to the grove’s entrance. Check the shuttle schedule for your trip here.

Once you reach the grove of giant sequoias, you can hike the easy, wheelchair-accessible paved trail through the incredible trees. Enjoy a short hike (.3-mile loop) on the Big Trees Loop Trail or spend 2 -hours on the 2-mile Grizzly Giant Loop Trail to see the most famous trees, such as the 3,000-year-old Grizzly Giant and California Tunnel Tree.

GLACIER POINT

2023 Summer Update: Glacier Point Road is closed to all traffic for road improvements until late July. Check the current status here before you visit. Visiting during your trip will not be possible without hiking or long delays.

Glacier Point is a beautiful overlook with panoramic views of the entire Yosemite Valley from the Sierra Nevada Mountains. At 3,200 feet, Glacier Point stands high above the valley and shows off many of Yosemite’s signature landmarks. You will see several waterfalls, like Vernal Falls, Nevada Falls, and Yosemite Falls, and the park’s towering granite monoliths, like Half Dome and Yosemite’s high country.

The small gift shop has ice cream treats that make for a fun treat after a long car ride or hike! Pop up a camping chair and take a few moments to enjoy the view from one of the many viewpoints.

Glacier Point is about an hour from Yosemite Valley, so I love stopping here on the way in or out of the park. Unfortunately, it is only accessible by car, as this location has no shuttle stop. However, you can book a guided bus tour if you do not have a vehicle. Depending on snow conditions, Glacier Point Road is open from May to November. You can check current road conditions here. The road is closed in winter, just after the Badger Pass Ski Area.

Glacier Point Road is also where you can find the trailhead to some of the best hikes in Yosemite, such as Taft Point and Sentinel Dome. The hike to Taft Point is 2.2 miles round trip with stunning views. However, Taft Point has some massive 2,000-foot drops that make me nervous with my young kids, so we have not hiked there yet. You can read more about the family-friendly hike to Sentinel Dome below.

WAWONA TUNNEL VIEW

The Wawona Tunnel View is a quick stop you should not miss. I love making this one of our first stops heading into the valley. There is plenty of parking on both sides of the road, and the views are just the beginning of the incredible sights to come.

You are in for a treat if you enter the park from the south. As you head through the Wawona Tunnel, you will begin to see the valley views emerge as the tunnel ends. You probably recognize this photo spot with Half Dome standing tall in the background. Wawona Tunnel View is a natural stop on the way into the valley and an excellent place for family pictures you will cherish forever. Stop for photos in these signature locations when visiting a national park with kids.

BRIDALVEIL FALLS

2023 Update: The Bridelvail Falls Trail remains closed to all traffic for the trail improvement project. However, you can still pull over and enjoy the view from the side of the road.

Yosemite is known for its waterfalls, and Bridalveil Falls is a quick way to stop and enjoy these stunning landforms when traveling with kids. I love stopping here on our way into the valley because the road is one-way, so you pass by it as you come in. Then, a short, easy .5-mile round trip hike takes you from the parking on the side of the road to the viewing point for the 620-foot falls.

As always, stay on the trail and do not climb the rocks. The signs are there for a reason, and exploring beyond the trail is unsafe. Water is unpredictable and slippery conditions can cause severe damage. There are great views from the trail’s end and designated viewing points.

BEST THINGS TO DO IN YOSEMITE VALLEY WITH KIDS

These locations are all accessible by shuttle or bicycle in the Yosemite Valley area. You can easily spend your entire trip enjoying these locations.

YOSEMITE VILLAGE

Yosemite Village is the “hub” of Yosemite National Park and will be busy throughout the year. A large paved trail runs through the village and connects you to bicycle trails all over the valley. Here you can find the Village Store (gift shop and grocery store), several places to eat, and the park’s bookstore and visitor center. The village is also home to the 80-year-old Yosemite Museum, the first building built as a museum in the national park system.

VISITOR CENTER

I always recommend you stop by the visitor center at the start of your trip to check in about current conditions and grab any maps you may need. I also pick up the park’s Junior Ranger booklet for my kids. The Yosemite National Park Junior Ranger booklet is a hit for all ages. I love that they have created an adaptive companion for kids with diverse learning needs. I love that the national parks are always working to be more accessible and inclusive for all. When your child completes the program, they receive a special badge that makes a great souvenir!

Plan an hour or so to stop by the visitor center, chat with a ranger about your plans, grab the Junior Ranger booklet, and check out the ranger program guide for any unique opportunities. Don’t forget to grab lunch for the rest of the day’s adventure!

SWIM IN THE MERCED RIVER BY THE SWINGING BRIDGE PICNIC AREA

Merced River runs through the valley floor, making swimming and rafting popular during the summer. When you stay at the Yosemite Lodge, swimming under the swinging bridge is practically in your backyard. We love coming out in the evening and enjoying our picnic happy hour while the kids play.

There is a parking lot with bathrooms and barbeques just to the left of Southside Drive and the beach access just off the bicycle path on the Lodge side of the river. So you can plan an entire day playing in the river during the summer. Other popular spots on the river are Sentinel Beach and Cathedral Beach, but we love Swinging Bridge because it is right off the bicycle path and a short walk from the lodge (where we like to stay). There is a shuttle stop at Cathedral Beach.

RAFTING IN THE MERCED RIVER

Families with older kids will enjoy rafting down the Merced River! You can bring your own float or spend the afternoon with a rental that starts at Curry Village (previously known as Half Dome Village) and heads down the river with a shuttle back! I will add this to my summer itinerary when my kids are older.

Like bike rentals, these are popular and can fill up during peak seasons. Unfortunately, you cannot book over the phone or through email ahead of time, but you can book in person a day or two before. I highly suggest checking in with the Guest Recreation Kiosk in Curry Village on your first day to set up your plans if you want to raft.

WANDER THE HAPPY ISLES NATURE CENTER

Due to COVID, the Happy Isles Nature Center has been closed for several years. However, the grounds are open and a great place to stop to see on your way out to one of our favorite kid-friendly hikes, like Mirror Lake or the Vernal Falls footbridge. Wander over the bridges, check out the old rock slide and the marshy “Fen.” This is a great place to have a snack or picnic lunch, take a few minutes to work on a Junior Ranger book, or rest on your bike ride!

BEST SIGHTS TO SEE WITH KIDS ON YOUR WAY OUT OF YOSEMITE VALLEY

You can quickly drive to see these spots during your trip, but we love stopping on our way out of the park due to their location on the one-way road!

EL CAPITAN

El Capitan is famous for climbers, given it is over 3,000 feet of sheer granite that creates a playground for climbers worldwide. So if you pull off at the El Capitan Meadow and break out your binoculars, chances are you will see some climbers in action. This makes for a fun stop on your way out of the park!

VALLEY VIEW LOOKOUT

Valley View Lookout is a great place to say “goodbye” to Yosemite because it is on your way out of the park. Just before the exit to Highway 140 and the turnaround towards Bridelvail Falls and the Yosemite Village area, there is a small pullout and parking area on your left. The views of the valley are spectacular so take a moment to stop!

OTHER AREAS OF INTEREST

Driving east on Highway 120, known as Tioga Pass, towards Tuolumne Meadows is a day trip in itself but also a fun way to exit the park if you have time to explore more of the Eastern Sierras. Heading East on Tioga Road is memorable and will give you some incredible views.

Make sure to stop at Olmstead Point for stunning views and photos. Next, explore the less crowded Merced Grove of giant sequoias before picnicking at Tenaya Lake. Finally, take in the views of the stunning Tuolumne Meadows. At 8,6000 feet high, Tuolumne Meadows is one of the most extensive high-elevation meadows in the Sierra Nevada.

KID-FRIENDLY HIKES IN YOSEMITE

These are my favorite kid-friendly hikes in Yosemite. All the hikes, except Sentinel Dome, are accessible by shuttle or bicycle. These are great for kids because they are interesting, not too long or strenuous, and can be combined with other activities nearby.

LOWER YOSEMITE FALLS

The walk to Lower Yosemite Falls is a very easy hike that is stroller-friendly and wheelchair accessible. This is beautiful any time of day, but evenings are tranquil. The Lower Yosemite Fall Trailhead is just across the street from the Yosemite Valley Lodge, making it a great walk before or after dinner. The hike to the viewpoint is only .25 miles, but you can also take the one-mile loop through the trees. The paved trail is flat, with a slight incline at the end.

It is surreal when you stand at the base of the 2,425-foot waterfall and realize you are only looking at the bottom portion, lower Yosemite Falls. Thinking back to the views from Cook’s Meadow makes you realize how small we are standing in the valley carved by glaciers so many years ago.

COOK’S MEADOW LOOP

Cook’s Meadow gives you incredible views of Yosemite Falls and Half Dome. The loop is about 1 mile, and the trail takes visitors along the meadow on the bike path, or you can zig-zag in the meadow on the paved boardwalks. You will also pass the oldest building in Yosemite, the Yosemite Chapel, built-in 1879.

Our favorite thing to do when we stay at the lodge during summer is to ride our bikes down to Swinging Bridge for a late afternoon dip in the river before continuing the loop along Cook’s Meadow at dusk. Nothing beats the sun going down over the mountains and the deer relaxing in the meadow.

Cook’s Meadow is one of our favorite hikes in Yosemite, especially when exploring with kids. No matter the season or time of day, you will surely see something beautiful in the meadow. When we visited Yosemite National Park as it was opening from COVID closures in 2020, we were lucky enough to see a bear running through Cook’s Meadow.

MIRROR LAKE

The 2-mile hike to Mirror Lake is great for families of all ages. The lake sits between Half Dome and North Dome along Tenaya Creek. Mirror Lake is the last of the large glacial lake that once covered Yosemite Valley. The views of Half Dome from Mirror Lake are unique because you look up and stand almost directly under it. As a result, the lake’s water reflects like a mirror, creating a beautiful spot for photos.

However, Mirror Lake may look more like a meadow in late summer, but the views surrounding you are worth the journey. In winter, the lake may be frozen over. The Mirror Lake paved trail allows walkers and bicyclists to enjoy the hike together. To access the trailhead, you can hop off the shuttle at stop #17, the North Pines campground. You can also bike over from shuttle stop #16 and the Happy Isles Nature Center.

THE MIST TRAIL TO THE VERNAL FALLS FOOTBRIDGE

When you look into the best hikes in Yosemite, you will read about the Mist Trail. This 3-mile hike takes you through the mist to an incredible view of Vernal Falls. The hike is uphill; the last part is rocky, with slippery steps to the stunning view. Hiking enthusiasts will take this hike even further on the John Muir Trail to Nevada Falls (7 miles roundtrip). These hikes in Yosemite look incredible, but with our young kids, we are not there yet.

However, the hike to the footbridge is doable with young kids. Although short at only one mile each way, it is still challenging as you mostly walk uphill for an elevation gain of 300 feet. However, the views are worth it! I carried my infant daughter because we were biking, and I did not pack a carrier for hiking that day. I don’t recommend this, but it is possible. The trail starts at shuttle stop #16, The Happy Isles Nature Center.

The Vernal Falls Footbridge on the Mist Trail in Yosemite National Park

SENTINEL DOME HIKE

The Sentinel Dome and Taft Point trailhead are located in the same area on Glacier Point Road. This is one of our favorite hikes in Yosemite, giving you incredible 360° views! The hike to Sentinel Dome is only 1.8 miles, but the steep climb at the end makes it feel longer! The trail is wide, which is great for kids.

When you reach the top, you feel like you are in the clouds. The view of Half Dome is impressive and unlike any other view in the park. Although you are high, there is a lot of space around you. However, I did want my kids to stay close and NOWHERE near the edges. At the top of Sentinel Dome, you will find the “Lone Pine” from the famous Ansel Adams photo. We picnicked during this hike and had a kombucha at the top before heading down. Take your time up here! It is beautiful.

KID-FRIENDLY DINING IN YOSEMITE

If you follow my blog, you know we love to eat and drink! So these are our favorite places to dine when visiting Yosemite with our kids. However, we don’t usually spring for fancy meals when visiting just because we are generally catching quick meals between adventures!

CURRY VILLAGE – THE PIZZA DECK

The Pizza Deck is an awesome place to grab a quick meal. The pizza deck has a variety of craft beers and pizzas. The menu is simple but bound to please the kids. Service is fast, and the patio views are gorgeous on summer. However, the squirrels are aggressive, so do not leave your food around.

YOSEMITE LODGE – BASE CAMP EATERY

We eat here a lot because it is the primary dinner choice at the Yosemite Valley Lodge. A short walk from our room, the Base Camp Eatery is a quick-service restaurant with a menu that tends to evolve. There is ample seating indoors and two small outdoor patios. They are open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. You can check current meal hours here. We have only had dinner, but they have a Starbucks coffee bar for grabbing coffee in the morning.

The Base Camp Eatery at Yosemite Valley Lodge – Hot Honey Chicken Biscuit, Crispy Chicken Sandwich, and Grilled Chicken Sandwich

During our last visit, the menu included a variety of chicken sandwiches, burgers, poke, and Mediterranean-style bowls. Waits can be long during peak seasons, but splitting your party and having someone wait while the kids explore the history of rock climbing throughout the restaurant is easy. This is also an excellent time for kids to work on their Junior Ranger booklets.

YOSEMITE LODGE – MOUNTAIN ROOM LOUNGE

The Mountain Room Lounge is a great place to take a moment to relax after a busy day. The environment is cozy, a few appetizers and pizzas are available before 8 pm. However, the highlight of the Mountain Room Lounge is the massive fire pit for smores. Pick up a smore kit in the gift shop next door, and your kids will be thrilled! We love to have dinner at the Base Camp Eatery and swing by for a nightcap and smores after a busy day!

YOSEMITE VILLAGE – DEGNAN’S KITCHEN

We love grabbing sandwiches, macaroni salad, chips, and drinks to-go from Degnan’s Kitchen for a picnic lunch later in the day. The fresh-made sandwiches are delicious but can take a while, especially during crowded seasons. They also have artisan pizzas and salads, a coffee bar, and various beverage options. Make sure to fill your water bottles for the day from the spring water by the cash registers.

I recommend stocking up from the to-go cooler to save time because we have waited over 30 minutes for sandwiches before in minimal crowds. When traveling and dining with kids, you want to eliminate the frustrations caused by waiting too long when you can. Plus, you have so much to see! So don’t waste your time in an annoying line.

THE AHWAHNEE HOTEL – DRINKS FROM THE BAR ON THE LAWN

So a bar may not be the first place to list on kid-friendly dining, but hear me out! The Ahwahnee Hotel is a destination in itself. It is a beautiful place to visit, and we love riding our bikes out there in the afternoon. The Ahwahnee Bar makes excellent cocktails, you are welcome to take them out to the furniture surrounding the giant lawn. The lobby’s Sweet Shop is another favorite stop for our son. So basically, candy or ice cream on a huge lawn for the kids and a beverage in hand on comfortable patio furniture for you! That is a win for me!

Anything you would add to my list? I love Yosemite and cannot wait to keep it growing. I hope it helps you plan an unforgettable trip! Check out some of our Yosemite itineraries below.

YOSEMITE TRIP PLANNING RESOURCES

Planning a trip to Yosemite? Check out my other Yosemite resources here!

CALIFORNIA, COVID-19 TRAVEL, FAMILY VACATIONS, NATIONAL PARKS, NORTHERN CA, ROAD TRIP - SEQUOIA AND YOSEMITE, ROAD TRIPS, WEEKEND GETAWAY

BIKING IN YOSEMITE VALLEY WITH KIDS

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There are so many things to see and do in Yosemite, and exploring on a bicycle is a great way to maximize time and avoid frustrations with parking and crowds. One of our best days in Yosemite was biking the valley floor with our kids. Do not miss this memorable experience.

In this post, I cover all you need to know to plan your biking adventure in Yosemite!

If you have your own bikes that you are planning to bring to Yosemite, jump down below to our epic day to help you plan yours! We always bring our son’s bike when traveling to Yosemite, but we have never all ridden around the valley together. This year, we decided to spend our 12th wedding anniversary doing just that. We had an incredible day, and I highly recommend you take a day to do the same!

BIKING IN YOSEMITE PLANNING TOOLS

WHERE CAN I BIKE IN YOSEMITE VALLEY?

Although bicycles are not allowed on trails, Yosemite Valley has over 12 miles of bike paths connecting the valley’s most popular attractions. The valley floor is very flat, which makes biking with kids an easy and fun adventure. Whether you bring or pack your bikes, you will surely enjoy the flexibility biking offers you and your family. Save this map of the Yosemite Valley Biking Trails on your phone so you always know where you are! Check out our sample itinerary below to start planning your day

WHERE CAN I RENT A BIKE IN YOSEMITE VALLEY?

Yosemite Valley has multiple bike rental options, making a family bike adventure very easy to plan. Due to snow in the valley, the rental season runs from the start of April to late October/Early November. Unfortunately, outside of ADA bike rentals, you cannot make reservations in advance. You can rent bikes from three locations in Yosemite Valley.

1) YOSEMITE VALLEY LODGE BIKE STAND

9006 Yosemite Lodge Drive
Yosemite Valley, CA 95389
209/372-1208

During our August 2021 visit, the Yosemite Lodge bike stand was open from 8-6 pm. The bike stand is located right next to the pool behind the front desk. I called in advance and was told to be there by 9 to ensure getting bikes for the day. In addition, early arrival gives you plenty of bikes to pick from, as all bikes are beach cruisers, and the seats cannot be adjusted. This is especially important when renting for kids, as the right seat height and helmet size will set you up for a successful day. You can check current hours here, but I recommend calling in advance just to check in about your family’s specific needs.

2) CURRY VILLAGE BIKE RENTAL KIOSK

9010 Curry Village Drive
Yosemite Valley, CA 95389
209/372-8323

During our August 2021 visit, the Curry Village (previously known as Half Dome Village) bike stand was also open from 8-6 pm. The bike kiosk is located next to the front office. Once you pay for your rental, you will head to the bike yard to pick out your bikes. We stopped by here to swap helmet sizes for our daughter around lunchtime, and a ton of bikes were still available. Again, you can check current hours here, but I recommend calling in advance to check in about your family’s specific needs.

3) YOSEMITE VILLAGE BIKE RENTAL STAND

9011 Village Drive
Yosemite Valley, CA 95389
209/372-1268

The Yosemite Village Bike Rental Stand is located next to the village store. The Village Store or neighboring Degnan’s Kitchen are great options for picking up a picnic for your bike ride. You can check current operations here.

BIKING IN YOSEMITE RENTAL OPTIONS

Several family-friendly options are available to rent at the three Yosemite Valley locations. There are no rentals for babies under the age of one. All bike rentals include helmets as well.

  • Kids bikes – $40/day or $30/5 hours (half day)
  • Adult bikes – $40/day or $30/5 hours (half day)
  • Adult bikes with trailers – $75/day or $55/5 hours (half day)

Riders in the trailer need to be age one or older for safety reasons. The bike stands also have ADA and electric scooters requiring advanced reservations. You also can rent wheelchairs and strollers during your Yosemite Valley visit at each bike stand.

OUR EPIC DAY BIKING IN YOSEMITE

START AT THE YOSEMITE VALLEY LODGE

Staying at the Yosemite Valley Lodge, we rented and started our ride from there. My husband walked over shortly after 8 am and rented the bikes while we finished getting ready for our day. We left the Yosemite Valley Lodge and headed West on the bike path directly behind our building (we were in Laurel). This is also the start of our favorite evening routine, which you can read more about in this post.

YOSEMITE VALLEY LODGE TO CURRY VILLAGE

We crossed Swinging Bridge and the Merced River and headed North along Cook’s Meadow all the way to Curry Village. This was a beautiful stretch and allowed us to get comfortable riding for a bit.

CURRY VILLAGE TO HAPPY ISLES NATURE CENTER

From Curry Village, we headed South to the Happy Isles Nature Center. This is a great place to explore with kids and stop for a snack. The area has plenty of bike racks and benches to rest on. There is so much to see as you wander through the area.

Take time to explore the different rivers, rocks, forests, and fen areas before heading inside for a family art class or Junior Ranger program. Interpretive panels guide you through the outdoor areas. Don’t forget some cute family pictures in this beautiful area. This area is also where the Mist Trail to Vernal Falls begins. Something for another day and definitely on my bucket list!

HAPPY ISLES NATURE CENTER TO MIRROR LAKE

From Happy Isles, we headed out to Mirror Lake. About 1/4 mile from the lake, rental bikes need to park for the last uphill push to the lake. Mirror Lake is a great place no matter the season. The colors are vibrant, and the scenery is spectacular whether the lake is full, frozen, or dried up. We love having a picnic lunch here, but we opted for a snack on this biking adventure as it was still a little early.

Plan to take your time visiting Mirror Lake. We wandered outside the lake, had a snack, took pictures of the kids, and helped our son with a few pages of his Junior Ranger book. This was a great rest after riding the distance we had covered.

MIRROR LAKE TO THE CURRY VILLAGE PIZZA DECK

From Mirror Lake, we headed back to Curry Village for lunch at the Pizza Deck. This order-at-the-counter outdoor craft beer and pizza kitchen was the perfect stop for lunch. Check out the menu here. There was plenty of shady seating, and the pizza was delicious! I will mention that the squirrels are pretty aggressive at the Curry Village Pizza Deck. My husband was grabbing our order and saw one run on someone’s table and grab a ranch packet! So *pro tip* sit by someone with a dog as we did! Ha!

Curry Village is a great place to explore with kids. They have a large wrap-around porch with rockers around the game room, and relaxing there with ice cream would have been ideal, however, the ice cream shop was closed due to COVID. So keep that in mind as an option when you go! We could also check in the Curry Village bike stand to swap our daughter’s helmet for a smaller size. So this is a great place to stop and check in if you are having any bike or helmet issues!

CURRY VILLAGE TO THE AHWAHNEE HOTEL

From the Pizza Deck, we headed into Yosemite Village and out to the Ahwahnee Hotel. This was a beautiful stretch of the ride as you take Northside Drive along the Ahwahnee Meadow into Yosemite Village and up Ahwahnee Drive on the other side of the meadow.

Ahwahnee Drive gave us perfect afternoon shade, and we were thrilled to arrive right at the Ahwahnee Bar was opening for the day! The Ahwahnee is a beautiful hotel worth checking out and makes for a great stop for all. Our son loves the lobby’s “Sweet Shop” and we love the craft cocktails from the lounge. If you are still hungry, treat yourself to an appetizer from the Ahwahnee Bar. The Bavarian Pretzel was gigantic and was served hanging from a giant hook in the center of the platter. Another great stop for all.

THE AHWAHNEE HOTEL TO YOSEMITE VALLEY LODGE

From the Ahwahnee, we headed back to Yosemite Lodge. We passed the Yosemite Falls trail because we planned to return later in the evening. Bikes are not allowed on the short trail, but there is plenty of bike parking, and this would be a great time to walk out to enjoy the falls if you are not staying the night.

From here, we took some time to regroup in our room. If you follow my blog, you know my son has Cystic Fibrosis and needs breathing and vest treatments twice daily. We took an hour or so to handle treatments and change into swimsuits for our favorite evening routine – a dip in the Merced River, a bike loop around Cook’s Meadow, and a walk out to Yosemite Falls.

YOSEMITE VALLEY LODGE TO SWINGING BRIDGE AND THE MERCED RIVER

As the sun began to set behind the towering granite walls surrounding the valley, we headed back out on the same path we started from. Keep a lookout along your ride, as we have seen a bear and countless deer on this exact route in the early evening. We parked the bikes for a short dip in the Merced River and then finished our day with another loop of Cook’s Meadow before returning our bikes. We arrived at Yosemite Lodge Bike Stand right before 6.

YOSEMITE VALLEY LODGE TO LOWER YOSEMITE FALLS

If you are staying at the Lodge, this is a great time to head over to Yosemite Falls, as chances are you will have it almost to yourself! We enjoyed our short walk (.5 miles round trip) out to Lower Yosemite Valley Falls before picking up dinner at the Base Camp Eatery in Yosemite Valley Lodge.

It was the perfect recipe for an unforgettable day. Definitely work biking in Yosemite into your Yosemite plans!

Looking for other fun things to do in Yosemite? Check out our first itinerary with all the details you need to plan an epic trip!

YOSEMITE TRIP PLANNING RESOURCES

Planning a trip to Yosemite? Check out my other Yosemite resources here!

CALIFORNIA, COVID-19 TRAVEL, FAMILY VACATIONS, ROAD TRIP - SEQUOIA AND YOSEMITE, ROAD TRIPS

SEQUOIA TO YOSEMITE – ROAD TRIP

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During the summer of 2020, we took an incredible road trip from Sequoia to Yosemite National Park. We started at home, in San Diego and headed through Sequoia, Kings Canyon, and then Yosemite. National Park road trips are my absolute favorite and I love looking forward to them each summer. Here are some key considerations for your overall planning before we get into all of the details for an amazing road trip through Sequoia, Kings Canyon, and Yosemite National Parks.

PLANNING TIPS

BOOK LODGING AS FAR IN ADVANCE AS POSSIBLE

If you want to stay in the National Park, which I recommend you do if you are able, you need to plan ahead. Lodges in Yosemite Valley book out a year in advance, as do the cabins in Kings Canyon’s Grants Grove. You can always catch last-minute cancellations, but holding some reservations during summer or school breaks a year in advance is ideal. You can always cancel if plans change.

HOW TO BOOK IN-PARK LODGING

If you are reading this to plan a last-minute national parks road trip, and want to stay in the park, do not panic. I have had great success with last-minute cancellations, but you must be diligent. I will bookmark the lodging reservation page and check it every day- even multiple times per day. The reservations are released in real-time, so you may be able to grab one in the weeks leading up to your visit.

I always hold a free cancellation reservation outside the park through Expedia for a plan B. Just keep the cancellation deadline on your calendar to ensure you are not charged.

OTHER BOOKING OPTIONS FOR IN-PARK LODGING

Also, be aware of the policies of the website NationalParkReservations.com. This site comes up immediately when searching and almost appears it is part of the National Park Service. However, they have a 10% non-refundable cancellation fee that is only mentioned in the fine print of your confirmation. This can be very expensive for those booking multiple nights in multiple lodges.

They can sometimes get you a room when the park is sold out, but it will cost you more. Our experience in Bryce Canyon was wonderful, but I have seen others that have lost hundreds due to cancellations. If you need a last-minute option, try them, but if you are booking in advance, definitely book direct!

CHECK CURRENT CLOSURES

COVID-19 had closed all National Parks and things were just starting to reopen leading up to our trip. We were super lucky to have both parks and our in-park lodging reservations open up right before our scheduled trip. Although things have opened back up, use the links I include below to the National Park Service official website and lodging options to check current conditions and closures for your visit.

The COVID situation is so fluid and things are always changing. In addition, weather and, unfortunately, California fires in the sequoias have affected openings in the Sierra this year. You want to be aware of what is open so your trip will run smoothly!

GET THE KIDS EXCITED

Build your kid’s schema by checking books out at the local library about the National Parks! I love getting ready for a trip by reading about the different animals and sights we are going to see. I love these inexpensive rookie readers as souvenirs for the kids too. However, my son has grown out of them so we have moved on to this National Park book at this Yosemite book.

DRIVING ITINERARY

In summary, we took five nights for the trip. This is the driving itinerary we planned. The best decision we made was to give ourselves a night before each National Park just outside the entrance. This strategy was key for several reasons. Not only did it save money, but it also maximized time in the parks.

OUR ROUTE ON A MAP

This map was made with Wanderlog, for making itineraries on iOS and Android

PLANNING WHERE TO STAY EACH NIGHT

As I mentioned above, I love staying in park when vising national parks. However, the hotels outside of Sequoia and Yosemite National Parks are much cheaper than the in-park lodging options. When planning your trip, it is important to consider your timing.

When you are waking up in the park and want to maximize your day exploring, you don’t want to stress about the drive into the next park. If you cram your day to explore and drive from Sequoia to Yosemite, you will either sacrifice enjoying Sequoia and Kings Canyon or your first beautiful evening in Yosemite. I highly suggest a night in between. Oakhurst or Fresno are great options between Sequoia and Yosemite National Parks.

Nothing makes a road trip more stressful than jam-packed plans. Staying outside of the park saved us money and gave us a full day to explore the park and then drive to our next destination. Another bonus is the outside of the park lodging options usually include breakfast so we were able to hit the road first thing! They also tend to have laundry rooms which come in handy for long road trips.

KID-FRIENDLY PLANNING

Our guides to Sequoia National Park and Yosemite National Park below include all of the details to make the trip family-friendly. However, when going on road trips, I like to bring a few extras along to entertain the kids. Read more about our road trip favorites here.

When going to National Parks, I love to take advantage of Junior Ranger programs and pack some other things to enrich their trip. You can read more about our favorite things to pack for kids in National Parks here. I love requesting visitor guides for the parks before traveling as well. My son has fun looking through them in the car and it helps me plan our adventures!

REQUEST FREE VISITOR GUIDES

These guides are free from the county tourism bureaus that surround Sequoia and Yosemite National Park. You can download the e-versions or request a guide to be mailed to you!

Sequoia National Park

Visit Visalia – Visalia County

Discover the Sequoias – Sequoia Tourism Council

Yosemite National Park

Visit Yosemite – Madera County

Yosemite Vacation Planner – Mariposa County

YOSEMITE & SEQUOIA TRIP PLANNING RESOURCES

Check out my other Sequoia & Yosemite trip-planning resources here! Here you can find itinerary details, what to see with kids, and all of our lodging and dining recommendations!

CALIFORNIA, COVID-19 TRAVEL, ROAD TRIPS, TRAVEL TIPS, WEEKEND GETAWAY

KIDS’ CAMPING CORNER

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Letting kids have their own “zone” empowers them to explore and feel ownership of an area in your site. In addition, they can drag whatever around, make any mess, etc. without ripping your family tent apart. On a recent trip, our son and his friends referred to this area as “kid base” and we all thought that is a perfect name! Here is how we set up an amazing camping corner for the kids during our camping weekends!

This is PART 4 of our Ultimate Guide to Camping with Kids!

GEAR

Out Lightspeed Quick Shelter is the easiest thing to pop up and down. It is great for camping, but also the beach, park and sports games. We line the inside with cozy blankets the kids can picnic on and set up a small pop-up dining table for the kids to dine on. This table rolls up into a bag smaller than a camping chair so it is great for the beach, park, etc. as well. If we have a corner site or are camping where you can hang things on trees, our son LOVES his hammock. This is the easiest thing to set up and provides hours of joy, entertainment, and relaxation. You really can’t beat that corner spot on the beach! Add some battery-powered party lights and the “kid base” is complete!

ENTERTAINMENT

I love watching the kids’ imagination flourish in nature, but we do have a few games we usually pack up with us when heading out camping! In Part 3 of our Ultimate Guide to Camping with Kids, I mention glowsticks and wands as a fun things to bring along. Really anything that glows is extra fun when the sun goes down. Our son LOVES his glow football when we are camping. Light is huge with kids in the dark! Our son loves his headlamp too!

A few other things our son loves during the day are the Toss & Catch game, his Predator Card Game, binoculars for looking around, and his set of Plus Plus building blocks. These are all so easy to throw in a bag to let the kids enjoy!

For baby, we love this camping chair a sweet friend gave me, this adorable camping teether, and this fun camping board book.

BOOKS

No matter your child’s age, finding a book about camping or your destination to prepare them for the trip is always a fun way to increase their excitement and knowledge of the area. If your campground offers a Junior Ranger program, I highly recommend you have them participate. More on my love of the Junior Ranger programs here.

And finally, always have a first aid kit on hand when camping with kids! You will be happy to have it.

FANCY THINGS FOR CAMPING WITH KIDS

I wanted to include this fold-up table in my post because although we don’t have it, it brings back the best memories. It is so easy to transport and makes a great dining table for the kids as they get older. Right now we have them sitting on the ground, but as they grow this fold-up table is a great option!

TAKE ME BACK TO…
OUR TENT SETUP
OUR CAMPING KITCHEN
FIRESIDE RELAXING

CALIFORNIA, COVID-19 TRAVEL, ROAD TRIPS, TRAVEL TIPS, WEEKEND GETAWAY

FIRESIDE RELAXING

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Gathering around the campfire with kids is something they will always remember fondly. The campfire is the central gathering point of all camping experiences. Making dinner, roasting smores, and sharing stories with the people you love under the stars is priceless and what camping dreams are made of. Here are our tips for making your fireside relaxing even more comfortable!

This is PART 3 of our Ultimate Guide to Camping with Kids!

CHAIRS FOR THE CAMPFIRE WITH KIDS

A comfortable camping chair is essential for relaxing by the campfire with kids. There are so many cute camping chair options for kids depending on their preferences. We love these Coleman chairs because they fold up quickly, have great cupholders, storage, and even have a 4-can cooler hanging from the armrest. You don’t even have to get up! Super convenient for baby’s milk and snacks like string cheese to have within reach while you are relaxing.

Once we had a baby, I added this rocking camping chair to the mix and I am pretty excited about it! Although a little pricier, this chair has been amazing for rocking her to sleep by the fire. It will double to do the same during her brother’s baseball games. The only drawback is this chair’s cupholder is not ideal. I am looking into adding this clip-on cupholder to increase the storage on the chair. However, I still love this chair and cannot recommend it enough! Especially for those camping with babies.

A friend shared this luxury camping rocker/stargazing chair. It is definitely a luxury but looks pretty dreamy too! Stargazing is so fun to do with kids camping. Depending on where you are camping, stargazing can be incredible at night (check out my post on Joshua Tree or Borrego Springs if you are looking for a great stargazing site). If your child is into stargazing, definitely build on that interest with a stargazing set and astronomy book to help them explore more!

FIRE

No campsite is complete without a great fire (unless you are camping during a red flag warning in the famous Southern California Santa Ana winds). Make sure you purchase firewood from your campground or the local town as bringing wood into different habitats can spread disease and damage surrounding vegetation. Also, many times campground firewood is cash only, so be prepared. We love having firestarter to assure a great fire in less than desirable conditions. Don’t forget your lighter!

EXTRA FUN FOR THE CAMPFIRE WITH KIDS

Depending on the temperatures where you are camping, plan to layer your kids up! Jackets, beanies, cozy socks, and possible mittens are all great choices. We love lap blankets for everyone sitting around the fire. Our son loves wearing his headlamp to roast his marshmallows and explore the site at night. Finally, glow sticks are a huge hit with kids around the campfire. Let them create necklaces, wands, and bracelets to their heart’s content! Check out Part 2 of our guide for more info on how we do smores by the fire!

UP NEXT…

KIDS CORNER

OR SKIP TO…
OUR TENT SETUP
OUR CAMPING KITCHEN

CALIFORNIA, COVID-19 TRAVEL, ROAD TRIPS, TRAVEL TIPS, WEEKEND GETAWAY

HOW TO PACK YOUR CAMPING KITCHEN

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This is PART 2 of our Ultimate Guide to Camping with Kids!

The camping kitchen is key to a successful camping trip. Knowing what to pack for your camping kitchen will lead to a successful trip! Mealtime while camping works best when meals are planned & prepped in advance, supplies are organized and food is plentiful! Waking up to hot coffee and the smell of bacon is ideal camping – searching for every utensil in a never-ending bag in the dark is not. What basics do you need to pack for your camping kitchen? Here is our list of how to pack your family-friendly camping kitchen under the stars!

KITCHEN BASICS

COOLER

You definitely need a large cooler to hold your food and beverages. There is quite a range in quality (and price) with coolers, but large is key. We love packing our cooler with frozen water bottles on the bottom (they act as “ice” and turn into extra drinking water as they defrost) and grouping small items in large bags to make finding them easier. I may group everything for the baby in one gallon Ziploc and another for our son’s meds and high-fat grab-and-go snacks. We also love having a smaller cooler to store extra ice in for beverages or to add to our main cooler as the ice melts.

FIRE

No campsite is complete without a great fire (unless you are camping during a red flag warning in the famous Southern California Santa Ana winds). Make sure you purchase firewood from your campground or the local town as bringing wood into different habitats can spread disease and damage surrounding vegetation. Also, many times campground firewood is cash only, so be prepared. We love having a firestarter to assure a great fire in less than desirable conditions. Don’t forget your lighter!

COOKING

We love our stovetop burner. It is perfect for the tea kettle in the morning. It can handle one sauté pan with eggs or bacon in the morning and makes warming sliced sausage or cooked veggies fast and easy at night. However, we have this grill on our wishlist to take our meat to the next level. Grilling steaks or burgers over the campfire is fun but this will allow more control over the temperature. Don’t forget a headlamp for your head chef!

DISHES

Dishes are never the favorite camping, but a few items can make the process much easier. First, I love bringing meats and veggies marinating in disposable bags ready for the grill. I also break eggs into mason jars for each morning to have them ready to go. These small preps at home make a big difference in the flow of the day. Another way to cut down on dishes is to use disposable dinnerware and cups. Bonus points for eco-friendly options!

However, you will have dishes and a dishpan is ideal to bring water back to your site. I love how this one is collapsible for storage and has handles in case your water spigot is a few sites away. I always have small dish soap and a sponge to tidy up after meals. A few extra kitchen towels always come in handy too.

COFFEE

Coffee is a key piece of a camping morning. We always have a large water jug that we use to fill our tea kettle. Throw it on the burner to boil and add 4 heaping Tbsp. of ground coffee to the french press. Pout in the boiling water and VOILA! In just a few minutes you have the best morning coffee waiting for you.

There is definitely something magical about camping coffee. My husband making my morning coffee is for sure part of my love language! We love sipping it from our metal camping mugs, but I am looking forward to adding these Yeti coffee mugs to our camping stash soon! This way the coffee stays warm throughout the morning. I love to drag out my coffee time! Ha!

COOKING TOOLS

First off, I highly recommend keeping all of your kitchen basics in one or two large bins that keep things clean from dirt or ash that wind blows around. Half the time I throw things in bags and immediately regret it the next morning! Throw a tablecloth down over your picnic table and set things up from there!

UTENSILS

We always bring silicone spatulas for eggs and other veggie/meat sautés. Tongs are essential for meats and salads. A great non-stick pan is key for cooking on the burner. Roasting sticks are great for roasting smores and hot dogs/sausages. If you are camping with kids, roasting marshmallows is almost guaranteed and these telescoping roasting sticks keep them a safe distance away from the fire!

If you are cooking meat, plan to have a great knife and cutting board. I love these cutting boards because they are large enough for big cuts of meat and thin enough to throw in our bag easily. They are easy to store at home too – and they fit in the dishwasher. I usually throw in a paring knife and a larger knife with covers like these. However, I just came across this set and kind of love how it is all together and can stay in the garage with the camping stuff! One less thing to think about packing. I love having a pair of scissors too. It is amazing how much we end up using them!

FOOD STORAGE

Aluminum foil is great for making pouches of veggies to grill or wrapping up leftovers. I also love to have a variety of extra Ziplocs and Tupperware for storage too. Don’t forget trash bags! You only have to camp in crazy winds once to realize how important advanced food prep and storage plans are!

DRINKS

When camping in the cold, koozies are a must! I love these HaloVino stemless wine glasses too! They are perfect for the campsite and keep your wine tasting just right. Don’t forget your wine & beer opener and cups to match your beverage of choice. An extra stash of cups is a great idea too. You will be surprised how many uses you find – between scooping sand or storing toothbrushes, extra cups are always useful!

CLEANING

Here I come with the cleaning again. Ha! I get that camping is dirty, but here are a few things that help me keep a handle on it all with kids. Baby wipes on our main table are a staple. They are so versatile between cleaning up, wiping dirt off pans and utensils, wiping hands, and even taking a morning “wipe down shower” to freshen up! A roll of paper towels is a great thing to have and in our new COVID era, sanitizing wipes and hand sanitizer are just as important.

MEAL IDEAS

When you think about how to pack your camping kitchen, it is important to think about what you are going to be cooking in that kitchen! Here are a few of our tips for packing and easy, go-to meal ideas! I am excited to start getting more creative with our camping menus, but these are some basics that have been easy for us!

PACKING TIPS

Fill 3/4 and freeze smaller water bottles or 1/2 gallon milk containers to keep your cooler cold. Pack your produce washed and ready to go (sliced, diced, etc.) Put meal items in gallon Ziplocs to make grabbing them out of the cooler easier. Bring meats and veggies seasoned and marinated in bags as well – the key is to have as much as possible ready to go! Don’t forget any preferred seasonings, your oil of choice, butter, salt & pepper. Juice, milk, or other liquids can be poured into smaller jars or purchased in smaller portions to save space.

BREAKFAST

LUNCH

SNACKS

  • Nuts – cashews, almonds, pistachios, trail mix
  • String Cheese
  • Cheese & Crackers
  • Fresh Cut Fruit
  • Chips, Salsa & Guacamole
  • Jiffypop Popcorn
  • Macaroni or Potato Salad

DINNER

  • Precooked sausages (love Aidell’s)
  • Hotdogs or chili dogs
  • Precooked pasta that you warm up in the pan
  • Steaks
  • Tri-tip
  • Chicken or Steak Kebabs
  • Cheeseburgers
  • Grillin’ Beans
  • Veggie & Potato Pouches (chop, marinade, and place in foil pouches – place on side of the grill while you cook)
  • Bagged Salad (I love to take these out of the bag and place the lettuce and topping packages in a large rectangular container that I can use to store, shake and serve from )

Don’t forget your smore ingredients! You can purchase separately or grab a kit that has it all! I sometimes make “smore bags” for the kids with the ingredients they need already sorted into small bags to make passing them out fast! This is especially helpful on windy nights.

FANCY THINGS

When you look into what to pack for your camping kitchen, there is always a new gadget to help you out! I love checking out new camping items and throwing them on an Amazon wishlist for the holidays. Seems like everyone is asking what we want and I love having it ready to go. If you want to get extra fancy, you can set yourself up on this portable kitchen. And cook a feast on this standing grill! You can also throw one of these pop-up screened canopy tents around your dining area to ensure bug-free eating if you are camping somewhere with intense bugs!

UP NEXT…

FIRESIDE RELAXING

OR SKIP TO…
KIDS CORNER
OUR TENT SETUP

CALIFORNIA, COVID-19 TRAVEL, ROAD TRIPS, TRAVEL TIPS, WEEKEND GETAWAY

TIPS FOR CAMPING WITH KIDS

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The thought of camping with kids can feel like way too much work! Our tips for camping with kids will help you gather what you need, pack for true comfort, and plan a successful camping trip! You can even start a wishlist of gear to start accumulating over the years. Here is a list of our favorites for a family-friendly, COMFORTABLE camping weekend!

We love getting into nature and COVID-19 has only pushed us to do so more! During a recent beach camping adventure, friends wanted more info on some of our gear and setup. They kept encouraging me to write a post full of our tips for camping with kids! So, here it all is! Our ultimate guide to camping with kids. For families that are not comfortable with their camping flow, do not be discouraged! We started with a few key pieces and grew from there. We add a few things to our packing list every trip. Most importantly, comfort is key!

Please note, our tips for camping with kids are more for those families looking to camp in comfort, not families looking to carry the load in a backpack! Packing light is not my strong suit! Camping requires more than a hotel stay, but is sure to give your kids lifelong memories! Isn’t that what we really want? I can only hope my kids will look back and talk fondly about all of the fun things we shared while they were growing up.

OUR TENT SETUP

OUR CAMPING KITCHEN

FIRESIDE RELAXING

KIDS CORNER

OUR TENT SETUP

This is Part 1 of our Ultimate Guide to Camping with Kids!

A TENT WITH THE COMFORTS OF HOME

I absolutely love our tent! At 10 x 14ft, it gives us all the additional space we need with the baby and a little more room to grow. In addition, it pops right up! No messing around with poles, or trying to connect poles where the inside wire has lost its elasticity! During our last camping trip to the beach, it did drip some marine layer dew through the roof, so I definitely want to pick up the rainfly soon for added protection in inclement weather! You can click the pictures for more details and specs about our tent!

Don’t forget a rubber mallet to hammer down your stakes, as well as a tarp to protect the bottom of your tent. We also love putting down a large mat outside of the tent to use as a doormat for shoes, toys, etc. We always have a Swiss Army Knife for whatever may come up, and it always is great to lift the stakes out of the ground when packing up.

COMFORTABLE TENT CAMPING SLEEP IS A KEY TO SUCCESS

We set up the tent to feel like a bedroom. Our air mattresses have built-in pumps that fill quickly. When you are packing up, you can reverse the pump to pull all of the air out of the mattress to make rolling them up for storage super fast. The air mattresses are extra tall which makes them super cozy.

Our sleeping bags keep us super warm down to 20 degrees and are easily pushed back into the storage bags. They also have straps that will hook to a backpack if you are doing something more adventurous. We also love a big flat sheet under our sleeping bags and a big cozy blanket over them for early morning snuggles with the kids! For baby, we are currently using our pack and play, but this toddler airbed will be in the mix before we know it! Our son used this all the time from ages 2-6 and we loved it!

OTHER COMFORTS OF HOME TO CONSIDER

I love having a small fold-up table that acts as a nightstand for phones, water, and our lantern next to our air mattress. Our lantern charges our phones through USB too which is awesome because my battery is always dying. Our son is sometimes nervous going to sleep alone in the tent, so carabiner flashlights are great for him to clip to the window zipper by his bed. I also love hanging clip lightbulbs from the center of our tent just to have a quick light I can find fast if someone needs something during the night.

A FEW WAYS TO KEEP THINGS AS CLEAN AS POSSIBLE… HA!

In my quest for comfort, I love a cozy tent. Obviously clean and camping do not go hand-and-hand, but here are a few things that make it a little cozier with kids. Our pop-up hamper comes with us whenever we travel, but it was especially great to catch all of the sand from our last beach adventure. I love a big, thick blanket on the floor for added warmth and comfort when you first step in. This is also a great help when you are breaking down and can shake out most of the sand/dirt, etc before sweeping the rest up with a mini broom and dustpan. I love carabiners for hanging anything, and I always have a mini garbage bag in the tent for diapers or wipes and all of the random things that end up in the tent!

ADDED SECURITY

Some of these suggestions are not relevant depending on where you are. Some campgrounds (like our Southern California beaches) have high theft rates, so I like to do what we can to secure our belongings. We try to store expensive items in the car (our generator, our son’s medical equipment, and meds) to prevent a loss that would be difficult to remedy. We keep bikes locked or in the car as well. I love to use a small carabiner to “lock” our tent from the inside when we are sleeping. This is an especially great tip for camping with kids you are worried about wandering off to explore in the early morning hours. If necessary, you can also use suitcase locks to “lock” your tent when you are gone during the day.

UP NEXT…

OUR CAMPING KITCHEN
OR SKIP TO…
FIRESIDE RELAXING
KIDS CORNER

We took a while to get into camping when our son was born due to Cystic Fibrosis needs. As we became more comfortable with his diagnosis and routine, we began to explore how to meet these needs out in nature. He needs to take over 17 medications every day. The medications are administered through over 40 pills, sterile saline rinses, nebulizer breathing treatments, and multiple vest therapies a day that requires electricity.

CALIFORNIA, CENTRAL CA, COVID-19 TRAVEL, DAYTIME ADVENTURES, HIKING, ROAD TRIPS, WEEKEND GETAWAY

EXPLORE CAMBRIA, CA

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These are the gems of Cambria, our favorite things to explore when visiting. I suggest starting here – choose what matters the most to you and build the rest of your day from here. There are so many things to do in Cambria, CA. So many of these are places have astonishing views. If you have the time, try to see them all. Plan where you want to spend your morning coffee and sunset views and fill in the rest with our additional recommendations. Several of these places are on our *DO NOT MISS* list of favorite things to do in Cambria, CA.

A MAP OF THE EAST & WEST VILLAGES

Cambria is a small, coastal town, with Main Street divided into two parts – the West Village and East Village. The two villages are separated by about 1/2 to 3/4 mile, so it is all very close together. There are so many things to do in both villages. When visiting Cambria, you will want to explore the shops and restaurants in both villages. We have walked from one end of Main Street to the other several times. You can get a feel for the distance by looking at this map. However, the entire walking route does include a hill between the two villages. With parking so plentiful throughout town, driving is your easiest option when exploring Cambria.

THINGS TO DO IN CAMBRIA, CA

MOONSTONE BEACH BOARDWALK

*DO NOT MISS – A FAVORITE IN CAMBRIA*

Just a little over one mile long, the Moonstone Beach Boardwalk is one of the most beautiful walks you can take as a family. The boardwalk is also one of our favorite things in Cambria, CA. There are several benches along the path to take in the wildlife. You can watch the dolphins, birds, and even whales during the morning hours. Then, you can take the stairs down to Moonlight Beach or follow the small pathways down to different tidepools you can explore. I HIGHLY recommend heading out here for sunset.

The boardwalk runs parallel to Moonstone Beach and starts next to the El Colibri hotel on Moonstone Beach Drive, just off Windsor Boulevard and Highway 1. There is a small dirt lot for parking at the start of the boardwalk, or there are many dirt areas on Moonstone Beach Drive to park and hop on the boardwalk. Many of Cambria’s cute motels and lodges are also across the street from the path.

MOONSTONE BEACH

*DO NOT MISS – A FAVORITE IN CAMBRIA*

Moonstone Beach is famous for its jaw-dropping views. The beach runs parallel to Highway 1 up the coastline to San Simeon. Moonstone is also known as a spectacular beach for wildlife viewing and beachcombing. Our son loves walking with his Mimi looking for moonstones in the sand and funky driftwood creations. When staying close, it is a fun beach to head out at night to look for moonstones shining under the night sky. It is not uncommon to see dolphins, whales, sea lions, and other animals from Moonstone Beach and the boardwalk above it. The beach is accessible from the boardwalk above, Leffingwell Landing State Park, or Shamel Park off Windsor Boulevard.

SHAMEL PARK

Shamel Park is a beachfront park off of Windsor Boulevard with plenty to do for kids! The playground is always clean and the views are astounding. Shamel Park is home to the Discover the Whale Trail due to the likelihood of seeing whales and other marine mammals from the park. It is the perfect place for your kids to play before or after a visit to Moonstone Beach. The park has a large grassy area, picnic facilities, and a swimming pool. Parking is easy as you can pull up right in front of the park and walk through the park to the beach. Shamel Park is a perfect stop for beautiful views and happy kids.

WINDSOR BOULEVARD

Windsor Boulevard runs parallel to the coastline and is home to some of Cambria’s most beautiful oceanfront properties. There are several areas with beach access and lookouts along Windsor Boulevard and benches to rest on along the road. Many of the homes are available for weekly or monthly rentals as well. We love taking a bike ride down the street with hotel bikes or a morning coffee walk towards the gem at the end of the road, The Fiscalini Ranch Preserve.

THE FISCALINI RANCH PRESERVE

*DO NOT MISS – A FAVORITE IN CAMBRIA*

Hiking around Fiscalini Preserve is one of my favorite things in Cambria, CA. I have taken in the foggy morning views with a hot cup of coffee and watched the sunset from the coastline with a glass of wine. Fiscalini Ranch is excellent no matter when you visit. The views along the bluff are unreal, and the Friends of Fiscalini Ranch Preserve Foundation does an incredible job of keeping the trails maintained and the plants flourishing. I do not think I have ever seen litter, let alone any graffiti or other damage. During COVID, the trails have been turned into one-way circles to keep people socially distanced. I dream of retiring one day and being a friend of the preserve, planting trees and weeding the ranch to preserve this special place.

Along the trails, you will find artistic benches made from driftwood and sea glass to stop, slow, rest, and take in the views. We have seen dolphins and elephant seals and I am still waiting for my whale sightings from one of the benches! With over 440 acres to explore, Fiscalini Ranch Preserve is a must-see in Cambria. Parking is easy, and we love to enter from the parking at the end of Windsor Blvd (North), although there are several areas to enter “the Ranch” in Cambria. The Windsor South or North entrance will allow you to enjoy the boardwalk along the cliffs, which is my absolute favorite.

NIT WITT RIDGE

Nitt Witt Ridge is a house made from glass bottles, auto parts, shells, and other garbage and is a sight to see. The home is now a California Registered Historical Landmark and sits high on the hills above Cambria. Arthur, “Art” Beal (or Capt. Nitt Witt) was an artist with a unique personality that used to work at Hearst Castle. He purchased the property in the 1920s and worked to create his home entirely out of hand tools and household materials. Driving by the house is a fun thing to do in Cambria, CA. We have only driven by, but you can take a tour of the property if you are more interested. Tours run daily, and you can call 805/ 927-2690 for more information.

SHOPPING AND DINING IN THE EAST VILLAGE

The East Village is filled with great restaurants and shops to explore. In our guide to visiting Cambria, California, you can read more about the dining, sipping, and shopping options in Cambria’s East Village. Cambria is such a unique town, and you can see so much of the relaxed vibe as you stroll through different art galleries, nurseries, antique stores, and other shops that fill the East Village. Wandering around the East Village between meals is a necessary thing to do in Cambria, CA. Even the trash cans are pretty!

CAMBRIA HISTORICAL SOCIETY MUSEUM

Cambria has a rich history of miners and cowboys. If history is of interest to you, the Cambria Historical Society Museum is the place to take it all in and learn more about the town you are enjoying. The Cambria Historical Society has a wealth of information about the town, and I especially love their Historical Walking Tour. The tour allows you to explore the area with an appreciation for the area’s rich history.

The Cambria Historical Society Museum is housed in the Guthrie-Bianchini House built in 1870. The gardens surrounding the museum are always fun to explore and are a magnet for butterflies in spring. During the COVID pandemic, the gardens have doubled as a place to enjoy your take-out meal.

MAP OF THINGS TO DO IN CAMBRIA, CALIFORNIA

NEXT VISIT LIST…

MORE FROM OUR GUIDE TO VISITING CAMBRIA

Looking for more things to do near Cambria, CA?

Head up the coast to San Simeon! Check out our favorites things to do in San Simeon here.

CALIFORNIA, CENTRAL CA, DAYTIME ADVENTURES, HIKING, ROAD TRIPS, WEEKEND GETAWAY

VISITING CAMBRIA, CA – MAGIC ON THE CENTRAL COAST

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Cambria is a magical seaside town on California’s Central Coast, and it is one of our favorite places to visit. My husband grew up visiting Cambria often as his Grandma would rent a house each summer. We hope to continue the tradition. Our son already loves our visits, and, at four months old, our daughter has already had her first visit. Cambria is a beautiful place to escape for a weekend getaway- or longer! Here is our guide to visiting the coastal gem of Cambria, California.

WHERE IS CAMBRIA, CALIFORNIA?

Cambria is a quiet, beautiful town full of fun shops, delicious food, and beautiful places to explore. Whether or not you stay in the east village or west village, you will find yourself surrounded by the ocean and Monterey Pines. Cambria is the perfect destination for a relaxing weekend away. California’s Central Coast has so much to offer, and I hate to write too much about it because I don’t want our favorite places full of crowds. However, the magic of Cambria is something everyone should experience.

WHAT SHOULD I DO WHEN VISITING CAMBRIA?

Check out the following pages for our ultimate guide to Cambria! If you plan to head up the coast a bit, check out my post about San Simeon too. Here are our favorite family-friendly places to explore, eat, drink, shop & stay when visiting Cambria, California.

EXPLORE CAMBRIA, CA

Visit the EXPLORE portion of our guide to visiting Cambria, California, to help you plan where to go and what to see.

DINE CAMBRIA, CA

Visit the DINE portion of our guide to visiting Cambria, California, to help find the best restaurants for every meal.

SIP CAMBRIA, CA

Visit the SIP portion of our guide to help you find the best wineries (and other libations) in Cambria, California!

SHOP CAMBRIA, CA

Visit the SHOP portion of our guide to find the best shopping and our favorite stores to visit in Cambria, California.

STAY CAMBRIA, CA

Visit the STAY portion of our guide for our lodging recommendations and to help decide the best option for your visit to Cambria, California.

Have you been to Cambria? Any favorites I am missing? Dreaming of our next trip…