outdoors

Oahu Kayaking – Best Places to Go – 2TravelDads

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Oahu Kayaking - Best Places to Go - 2TravelDads

With each visit, we fall in love with the Hawaiian Islands a little more. There are only few places on Earth as beautiful as Hawaii, and kayaking in Hawaii is an experience like no other. Oahu is home to some of the most popular kayaking spots in the islands, and paddlers of all skill levels can enjoy stunning views and incredible wildlife encounters. We really enjoy visiting friends and exploring Oahu, so adding kayaking to an Oahu itinerary just combines the best of all worlds.

Whether you’re a seasoned kayaker or a first-time paddler, Oahu kayaking is an unforgettable experience. The mountains spilling down into the sea make for epic views from the water, and the wildlife is incredible. It can be dangerous too though, so always approach kayaking on Oahu or any other Hawaiian island with a “Safety First” mindset and go with a guide when possible. Since the eastern side of Oahu is more mellow, most of the kayaking options are on this side.

If you have any questions about kayaking on Oahu, our favorite snorkeling spots or anything else related to the other islands in Hawaii, feel free to leave a comment or send us a note. And if you have your own recommendations, please share them! We love seeing people plan exciting, unforgettable adventures!

By Chris and Rob – Full Story at the 2TravelDads

Oahu Gay Travel Resources

Planning a Florida Keys for Gay Families Vacation – 2TravelDads

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Florida Keys for Gay Families - 2TravelDads

I had dreamed of a Florida Keys vacation since I was a teenager and first saw pictures of Key West and all the places to visit in the Florida Keys for gay families. Well, we’ve finally taken a family trip to the Keys (several actually!) and worked really hard to create the best Keys itinerary with kids in mind.

We stayed in several tropical resorts, including some vacation rental options, and have great recommendations for where to stay as you explore. Also, keeping in mind smaller crowds and the abundance of nature in this beautiful archipelago, this vacation plan is great for having a one-of-a-kind experience beyond the busier spots in the Keys.

No matter how you slice it, the Florida Keys is a road trip. Sure, you can fly into Key West, but you can also fly into other Florida airports and then drive the Overseas Highway as far as you can. And that’s when we get to the big questions about planning your vacation here.

Full Story at 2TravelDads

Florida Keys Gay Travel Resources

Maine’s Acadia National Park – 2TravelDads

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Acadia National Park

Have you ever been to Acadia National Park? If the answer is no, then you’re among the majority of Americans. Located Down East in Maine, This gorgeous outdoor area is pretty big and complicated to plan for. From where to stay near Acadia to hiking and water activities, there’s a lot to consider before your visit.

The 2TravelDads’ Guide to
Visiting Maine’s Acadia National Park

Don’t worry! We’ve got you covered! If you have questions about Acadia National Park that we don’t answer, please let us know so we can help you. Leave a comment or send us a note and we’ll get back to you ASAP so you can plan your Acadia trip!

Located in coastal Maine, the park is very different from other NPS sites you might visit. Unlike Yellowstone National Park, Acadia is broken into sections with roads, towns and harbors between them. It’s more similar to Olympic National Park or John Day Fossil Beds (the Painted Hills) in that there are multiple park units.

By Chris and Rob – Full Story at the 2TravelDads

Downeast Maine Gay Travel Resources

Visiting Yosemite Country – 2TravelDads

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Yosemite Country - 2TravelDads

Five Truly Unique Yosemite Country Activities

As you plan your visit to Yosemite National Park, consider these suggestions for ways to see Yosemite Country from a different perspective. Whether it’s the history of the area or getting into nature with nobody else around, I think you’ll find these picks great additions to a totally unique getaway. Yosemite Country is more than what’s within the National Park, and it’s a lot of fun to explore. From great restaurants in Oakhurst to unique fishing and kayaking opportunities.

EBiking and Hiking Adventure

We love getting out into the forest, and especially in California’s Sierras. Renting E-bikes with off-road tires, we were able to cover a lot of ground really quickly as we headed out from the Tenaya Lodge. E-Bikes are unique in that you can pedal yourself just like a normal bike, but then you also have a small electric motor to boost you on your way.

Full Story at 2TravelDads

Central Valley & Sierra Nevadas Gay Travel Resources

Hiking the Finger Lakes – Our Taste for Life

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Hiking the Finger Lakes - Our Taste for Life

Hiking the Finger Lakes region of New York is a magical experience. In this guide, guest blogger Polly Clover shares 15 of the best local hikes to help you plan your trip.

Bursting with natural beauty, this region in central New York is one of the most enchanting destinations I’ve ever visited. In fact, no New York itinerary is complete without visiting.

Why I love Hiking the Finger Lakes

I discovered the Finger Lakes during one of my east coast road trip adventures, and I was instantly blown away. With its expansive vineyards, incredibly kind locals, stunning vistas, and breathtaking waterfalls, what more could you ask for?

There are 11 Finger Lakes, with five main ones. They expand over 9,000 miles, so a car is necessary to explore the entire area! That said, my favourite way to explore this natural slice of heaven is on foot and hitting the trails.

From leisurely, short strolls to long, challenging hikes, there’s something for all kinds of nature lovers! Many are pet-friendly, some are great for children, and a few are adequate for pro hikers.

By Charlotte & Natalie – Our Taste for Life

Finger Lakes Lesbian Travel Resources

Visiting Hells Canyon National Recreation Area – 2TravelDads

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Hells Canyon - 2TravelDads

Visiting Hells Canyon National Recreation area is a remarkable experience. Being the deepest river gorge in the USA, Hells Canyon is jaw-dropping and such a unique place to explore. We’ve got all the info for planning a trip to this outdoor wonderland, including jet boats, rafting, hiking and more.

If you’re looking specifically for information about doing a jet boat here, we’ve got you covered, but don’t limit yourself to this one activity. From Lewiston or Clarkston there are plenty of ways to explore the Snake River and Idaho wine country. If you have more questions than what we cover, please leave a comment or send us a note!

Things to do at Hells Canyon

What I love about Hells Canyon National Recreation Area is how many things there are to do there AND the whole area around it. With Lewiston, ID and Clarkston, WA at the northern end of the canyon, and Oxbow, OR at the southern end, you’ll never be lacking activities. 

The most common way people visit the gorge is via jet boat, and it’s certainly one of the best things to do in the area. A jet boat is a metal boat that runs on water jet propulsion instead of propeller motors. This allows the jet boats to both go really fast and cover a ton of mileage, and to be able to navigate very shallow areas and through rapids. They’re an awesome fete of engineering.

By Chris and Rob – Full Story at the 2TravelDads

Florida’s Rainbow Springs – 2TravelDads

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Florida's Rainbow Springs - 2TravelDads

Rainbow Springs State Park is just like it sounds: rainbowy and beautiful. One of the lesser known state parks due to its off-the-beaten-path location, it’s worth planning an adventure to visit. We love hitting up our favorite Florida springs for manatees and swimming in the summer, and this beautiful place is at the top of that list.

Visiting Florida’s Rainbow Springs

So much of what we share is National Park-centric, but we’ve really come to love Florida’s state parks, and some, like this, contain some of the most beautiful sights we’ve ever seen. Rainbow Springs State Park in Dunnellon, Florida is the type of place you’ve seen in fantasy movies or whimsical paintings. Seriously pretty beyond pretty. And it’s so much fun for a visit too!

When you do a Florida Gulf Coast road trip you’ll see some pretty incredible sights, from manatees in Crystal River to fiddler crab colonies in Fort Myers Beach, but nothing is quite like this place. Being the headwaters of the Rainbow River, you know it’s bound to be beautiful and a bit magical.

By Chris and Rob – Full Story at the 2TravelDads

Florida Gay Travel Resources

The Crack Trail in Killarney – Keep Calm and Wander

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The Crack Trail in Killarney - Keep Calm and Wander

Hiking The Crack trail in Killarney was a different experience I had to endure. And I mean it in a good, satisfying way. It is the best hiking I’ve ever had in Ontario. Reaching the top was insane, but the views were worth the trouble. Every step you make will be worth it, I promise!

Hiking the Crack Trail

The sign at the entrance shows that it’s a difficult-level hiking trail. Like any trail, we started slow and easy. We passed through a forested area as we started our ascent. Then came the blistering rocks and onto the Crack.

Personally, the hike was primarily easy-intermediate, with steep terrains. The only tricky part was the last 10-15 minutes before reaching the apex of The Crack, and we had to scramble on all fours. There was no proper trail, but hikers had to climb huge boulders to pass through the crack. And after this challenge, magnificent views await those who made it to the top!

Full Story at Keep Calm and Wander

Ontario Gay Travel Resources

Outdoors in Phoenix for Gay Families – 2TravelDads

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Phoenix for Gay Families - 2TravelDads

Are you looking for fun outdoor things to do around Phoenix for gay families? Don’t worry! This wonderful city, also commonly known as the Valley of the Sun, will never make your to-do lists dry with its exciting outdoor activities and distinctive destinations. We’ve been several times and love the combination of hot sun and fun things to do.

This Arizona desert mecca draws visitors from around the USA with its collection of scenic landscapes and world-class tourist activities. With lots of nature parks, restaurants, and even lakes around Phoenix, Arizona, you won’t run out of things to do to enjoy your sunny escape.

Outdoors in Phoenix for Gay Families – Boating

Although the area is known for its sunny climate and deserts, it also has its share of sparkling lakes that are great for a change of scenery and a boating experience. Some of the best tourist destinations for this outdoor activity are Lake Pleasant, Saguaro Lake, Canyon Lake, Apache Lake, Roosevelt Lake, and Bartlett Lake.

By Chris and Rob – Full Story at the 2TravelDads

Phoenix Gay Travel Resources

Best Things to Do in Lake Chelan – 2TravelDads

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Best Things to Do in Lake Chelan - 2TravelDads

Lake Chelan is decidedly the most family friendly wine destination in Washington. I’ve decided this after visiting Woodinville, Yakima, the Olympic Peninsula and the Tri-Cities. There are lots of things to do here that aren’t wine related, and plenty to keep you having fun or relaxing in any season.

Very near Leavenworth, Washington, this recreation area is a great weekend trip or you can spend a whole week exploring the lake, hills and canyons around the area. It’s also great for hiking and seeing a completely different side of Washington State. This is the place where playing in the outdoors meets enjoying agritourism in the sunshine.

Best Things To Do at Lake Chelan

Okay, you ready for a great collection of things to do in any season? Having visited in summer, fall, and winter, I’m confident you’ll be able to create a really fun, interesting trip the whole family can enjoy. We’re breaking this down by activity type, whether it be out in nature, family friendly wine tasting or getting onto the water, you’ll be able to pick and choose great activities all around the Lake Chelan area.

Full Story at 2TravelDads

Northwest Washington Gay Travel Resources