Wyoming

One of our most memorable family vacations, and one that I highly recommend, was to the beautiful state of Wyoming. We began out trip in Cody, Wyoming, a small town with a very western flavor.  There were accommodations to suit every pocketbook and family restaurants in abundance.  During the summer, Cody hosts a rodeo every night.  Tickets are very reasonable and readily available.  My children, without exception, relished this very new experience.  During the day, I would recommend a trip to the Buffalo Bill Museum for those of you interested in the Old West.  Cody sits at the northeastern entrance to Yellowstone National Park, so I would recommend that your book accommodations early.

From Cody, we drove to Yellowstone along an incredibly scenic stretch of highway.  Our older children were full of questions and observations and the younger kids seemed awestruck.  Of course, Old Faithful was a high point but do not miss Cascade Canyon.  The sheer depth of the canyon is incredible and it is sight that you won't soon forget.  The thing the kids enjoyed most was the abundant wildlife.  Buffalo stretching out for miles on all sides gave you some idea of what the pioneers experienced.  Pelicans, elk, moose, deer and even a couple of coyote grazed by the roadside in close proximity to the cars and we were just enthralled.  I recommend that you allow at least two full days in Yellowstone just to see the most popular things but you could easily spend a week exploring this fascinating place.

We left the park reluctantly and headed for Jackson Hole.  The Grand Tetons rise from the flats in a manner that takes you by surprise.  Jackson Hole is a tourist town that offers a tremendous amount of family oriented activities.  Take a horseback ride up the mountain and have a real chuck wagon dinner, under the stars.  Or, take a boat ride across Jenny Lake and hike up the mountain.  At Jenny Lake, don't miss the Chapel of the Transfiguration.  This simple little log chapel was designed so a large picture window behind the altar, frames the Grand Tetons.  My kids were absolutely silent as they sat in this little church that was so moving in its simplicity.   For the more adventurous, white water rafting is available at whatever skill level you desire.  Until you have had this experience, you can't begin to know how much fun it is.  As we floated in calmer waters, we observed dozens of bald eagles along the river's edge.  Jackson Hole offers plenty of shopping for the teenagers and a daily shootout and stagecoach rides for the little ones.  A great family destination with plenty of hotels and condos available.

Check out Wyoming, it is well worth the trip.  Until next time, safe travels!

Chapel of the Transfiguration

Old Faithful