I don’t know about you, but we love a good road trip. Summer is the best time to hit the open road with kids out of school, longer days and plenty of sunshine, and a plethora of outdoor activities to do. We usually take several road trips every summer, most are extended weekends (because work), but we try to take one longer road trip for a couple of weeks each summer. We recently partnered with Cenex to help us plan and fuel our epic summer road trips and provide you some tips on how to plan the perfect family summer road trip.

*This post was sponsored by Cenex, however all content and opinions are our own.

One of our favorite road trips was through Monument Valley

We’ve got some fun adventures planned on the road this summer to include plenty of outdoor recreation (of course) such as hiking, kayaking, paddle boarding, white water rafting and more. Curious as to where we are headed? You’ll have to stay tuned to find out as we plan to do an end-of-summer post and video of a round-up of our road trip travels. You can also follow along our adventures on Macs Explore.

Riding through Grand Teton National Park

So, want to plan a quick road trip for your family this summer that won’t blow the budget, isn’t too far from home, and requires minimal effort in planning? Follow these simple steps and soon enough, you’ll be hitting the road with your kids in tow.

Put it on the schedule

Look at your schedule and find a long weekend that you can take off. This could be a holiday weekend such as 4th of July, or Labor Day weekend. We usually do a road trip over a holiday weekend because that means we have a little extra time off work. But it doesn’t have to be a holiday weekend. Holiday weekends can often be more crowded at your destination, so if you want to avoid the crowds, don’t travel over a holiday weekend. For us, the perfect short weekend away is 3-4 days. It requires less “time off” work, is more inexpensive, takes less planning, and it’s the perfect little break from the hustle and bustle of life and a chance for us to make memories as a family.

Figure out your driving distance

For a shorter road trip, we usually don’t like to travel more than 4-6 hours away from home because we want to maximize our time at the destination. However, you might enjoy driving a lot, so if that’s the case, choose a destination that is farther, with more frequent, shorter stops along the way.

Choose a destination

Research cool places to see within a shorter distance of where you live. If you aren’t sure where to go (because the internet can be overwhelming), a great place to start is your state’s tourism website! You would be surprised by how much great and valuable information you can find on there. Or do what we often do and ask your friends on social media, like Facebook. Friends love to give their recommendations, so ask away! If anything you might get too many opinions which might make it harder to decide on a destination!

Review your budget

How much you are wanting so spend will dictate how far you can go, where you stay, etc. We recently did a trip to the Tetons for 4 days for under $600! We saved money by mostly camping, not eating out a lot and bringing our own food, and choosing mostly free activities like hiking and fishing. Know before you go how much you want to spend and then plan accordingly.

Figure out where you want to stay

If you are looking for the cheapest accommodations, camp (that’s what we do a lot of the time)! Just remember that depending on where you go, you might have to book reservations ahead of time to ensure you have a campsite. If you aren’t much of a camping family, but want to learn how to camp easily and affordably with kids, go to our camping post. Another option is to book a place with Airbnb, which offers plenty of affordable options for families (you select your budget), plus you often have a kitchen to cook with which saves money on food. You could also look into house swapping, where you swap houses with someone for a specific time period you choose. We haven’t tried this yet, but really want to!

Camping on a road trip through Southern Utah

Plan your activities

Or don’t plan your activities! Sometimes we like to just show up at a destination and ask the locals what to do when we get there. This method works best if you are trying to save time planning, but sometimes can cause a bit of anxiety when you get there and have no plan. Our recommendation is to plan maybe a couple of things to see and do, and leave the rest of your schedule open for other things to figure out when you get there.

We love hiking because it’s free and you get to see some beautiful places you wouldn’t otherwise see!

Pack smart

For a shorter road trip, you don’t need a lot of clothing, but if you’re camping, remember layers if you are going somewhere cooler or has unpredictable weather. Check out our Gear for affordable ideas on clothing, camping, and other outdoor and travel gear. As for clothing, just bring the basics to save space, but always remember good walking shoes (and extra socks!) and water shoes like these Keen water sandals and swimsuits if you’re going to be swimming or near water.

We love these packing cubes because they don’t take up very much space (perfect for the car) and you can keep your stuff organized. Bring a cooler for food and beverages that need to be cool (even if you aren’t camping!), so you can stop along the road and have options of healthy foods to eat on the road instead getting fast food. Or if you need to stop, gas stations like Cenex have convenience stores with healthy options of snacks and food for the road.

Give the kids games and simple activities to do in the car

Having activities and games will help pass the time for everyone! We are fans of movies, but when you’re driving a lot, sometimes letting the kids watch movies or play on their devices is too much screen time. Plus, sometimes that time in the car is the perfect opportunity to take advantage of time together. Games don’t have to be elaborate or even require any materials like these simple road trip game suggestions by Parents Magazine. We also love Six Sisters Stuff road trip ideas which require a few materials but will keep your kids occupied for hours.

Be flexible on the road

Try not to have a strict schedule to reach your destination so you can stop along the way, stretch, and enjoy the scenery. Most people are so set on reaching their destination, but we’ve learned that road trips are better when we stop along the way, learn something new about a place, get out and explore or do something active (even if it’s for a short time), eat at a local diner, or talk to the locals and get their suggestions on what to do/see a little off-the-beaten path. Some of our favorite memories are those unplanned, spontaneous moments when we pull over and relish the views!

Sometimes you just got to pull over and walk through fields of flowers.

Document your road trip

This might seem obvious, but make sure to take lots of photos/videos ALONG your road trip, not just at the destination. You will want to remember those in-between moments on your road trip, playing games or singing tunes in the car, the sights you see along the way, and yes, even the stops. Invest in a GoPro if you don’t have one already and use it to document your trip. We even let the kids have a turn using it and often it’s some of our favorite footage!

You can also give your kids a small travel journal where they can draw, write favorite memories and stories from the trip, and then add pictures to them when you get home. You can buy one like this simple travel journal for kids or you can make your own with a binder and these free printables. You want your kids to remember these memories when they are grown!

Road trips don’t need to require that much work to plan or even that much money. You also don’t need to go far to see some spectacular places! Explore your own state and you’ll be amazed by what you can find along the way. It’s not about where you go, it’s about who you’re with and the memories you make along the way as a family that counts.

Big thanks to Cenex, for sponsoring and helping us plan our awesome road trips this summer!!

Sometimes dirt roads lead to the best views

Wanting to plan a summer family trip to Banff National Park, Canada but not sure what to do?

Canada is such a large, vast country with a plethora of outdoor activities to do all year round, so we know that it can be overwhelming to plan a trip there. That’s why we’ve made it easy and not only have done all the research for you, but can personally vouch for these awesome, must-do activities in Banff. We’ve also included some areas near Banff to include Waterton and Jasper, if you want to do a road trip through Alberta, Canada (we highly recommend it!).

Our list includes some of the best and mostly free outdoor activities in Banff, Canada and the surrounding area.

Lake Louise and Victoria Glacier

One of our favorite places on earth is Alberta, Canada. Our first trip to Canada as a family was the summer of 2015. We did a big road trip starting in Glacier National Park, Montana and then continuing north through Alberta, Canada. It was absolutely breathtaking everywhere we turned! The Canadian Rockies are hard to beat with their staggering, jagged peaks, but we also fell in love with the turquoise glacier lakes of Alberta such as Lake Moraine, Lake Louise, and Peyto Lake.

And then there’s the wildlife! We saw bald eagles, bears, moose, mountain goats, big horn sheep, and more. Canada truly has some of the world’s most exciting wildlife to spot!

Bighorn sheep just hanging out on the side of the road besides Lake Minnewanka.

Table of Contents:

Waterton National Park
Banff National Park
Jasper National Park

Waterton National Park

Bear’s Hump

If you only have a day in Waterton National Park and time for a short hike, do Bear’s Hump. It’s only 2 miles round trip (climbing a little over 700 feet) and it offers the best views of Waterton to include Upper and Lower Waterton Lake, the town of Waterton (which is so cute by the way), the famous Prince of Wales Hotel, and of course, the amazing Canadian Rockies which stretch as far as the eye can see.

On top of Bear’s Hump, what a view!

The stunning Prince of Wales Hotel

Crypt Lake

If you have an extra day in Waterton and are up for a serious adventure and want to check one of National Geographic’s 20 Most Thrilling Hikes off your bucketlist, don’t miss the famous Crypt Lake trail. This trail starts with a short 15 min boat ride via Waterton Shoreline Cruise (cost is $20/person) across Waterton Lake to Crypt Landing where you begin the hike. This hike is challenging, a little over 10 miles round trip, and not suited for young children or those with a serious fear of heights. Also, don’t forget bear spray (that goes for pretty much any hike in Canada)!

The trail passes by some waterfalls and pretty views, but the real thrill comes when you have to hold onto a steel cable and ascend up the narrow cliff with steep drop-offs, climb an eight foot ladder, and wiggle yourself through a 60 foot tunnel. This hike isn’t for the faint of heart, but it will definitely leave you with a surge of adrenaline when you accomplish the hike and make it safely down!

Red Rock Canyon

If you can squeeze it in (perhaps the same day you hike Bear’s Hump), Red Rock Canyon is a great, easy, short hike (less than a mile!) that takes you to a waterfall, and along a pretty red rock canyon where the kids can play in the water.

Red Rock Canyon

Blakiston Falls near Red Rock Canyon

Banff National Park

Cave & Basin

While you’re in Banff, don’t miss Cave & Basin Historic Site, which is actually the birthplace of Canadian National Parks. In 1883, railway workers discovered warm water springs on this site on the side of Sulphur Mountain, which led to the establishment of a reserve around the hot springs in 1885.

Two years later the Canadian government made the area a national park – the country’s first. We loved seeing the underground hot springs, but the museum is also very well done and includes a short film of all of Canada’s National Parks, which is beautifully done! Did we mention that it is free too?!

Cave & Basin Historic Site

Banff Upper Hot Springs

You can’t come to Banff without soaking in some hot springs. We loved Banff Upper Hot Springs, but when we come back, we want to hit up Radium Hot Springs, which supposedly is less busy but a 1.5 hr drive outside of Banff, and Miette Hot Springs in Jasper National Park.

Explore Downtown Banff

We are suckers for a good mountain ski town, and Banff delivers! We loved that the town of Banff has a quaint European flair. If you enjoy strolling through the town, shopping, or dining out, you will not be disappointed with the variety of shops and restaurants in Banff.

View of downtown Banff, Alberta, Canada at sunset during the summer

Bike Bow River Trail or Two Jack Lake Trail

We camped right on Two Jack Lake, which was HEAVENLY. The sun didn’t go down until after 11pm, so each night after dinner, we would go for a bike ride on the trail that surrounds Two Jack Lake. We also biked the Bow River Loop Trail, which was super easy and flat and great with kids. They even have “bear gates” on this trail to keep the bears out and off the trail! We brought our own bikes, but there are also bike rental shops in town.

For more biking trail ideas, check out Banff’s Biking Guide.

We loved biking around Two Jack Lake every night.

Biking along Two Jack Lake

Hike Johnston Canyon

This is popular trail outside Banff, along the Bow River Parkway, but you can’t go to Banff without hiking Johnston Canyon. It is short, (less than 3 miles round trip to Upper Falls) follows a beautiful creek up to Lower and Upper Johnston Canyon Falls. There is even a catwalk for part of this trail making it wheelchair accessible. It’s great for toddlers too since there isn’t much elevation gain. Our advice is to do it earlier in the morning to avoid the tourists! This hike is supposedly just as spectacular in the winter when the waterfalls freeze.

Hiking on the catwalk alongside Johnston Creek

Upper Johnston Falls

Canoe on Lake Moraine

By far, our most favorite thing we did in Banff National Park was to go canoeing on the stunning Lake Moraine. This lake almost looks fake, even in person! Lake Moraine is the epitome of the Canadian Rockies with its perfectly calm, turquoise waters beneath the towering snow-capped Rockies.

We got up early to get there before the crowds arrived and I’m so glad we did because we were some of the only people on the lake. Canoes and kayaks aren’t available to rent until 10AM, but you can hike the trail that goes along the lake, take photos and come back before the rental shop opens. You cannot come to Banff without experiencing this!

It was so surreal to paddle on this lake and yes, that water really is that color!

The Valley of Ten Peaks, on the drive to Lake Moraine

It doesn’t get any prettier than this.

Hike one of many Lake Louise trails

Like Lake Moraine, you can’t go to Banff National Park without visiting Lake Louise as well (just a short drive from Lake Moraine). Warning: in the summer months, it can be very CROWDED, so as mentioned previously, go earlier or later in the day. The Shoreline Trail starts at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise Hotel (which is pretty amazing!) and winds along the lake offering some great viewpoints of Lake Louise and the surrounding mountains for about a mile. This trail can also be busy, so come before 10AM or after 4PM to avoid the crowds.

The Fairview Lookout Trail is also a good short option and climbs up a little to give you a different perspective of the lake, Victoria Glacier, and the hotel.

Cooling off feet in Lake Louise, Banff

We didn’t stay at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, but it sure looks fancy!

One of our favorite hikes in the Lake Louise area is the hike to Lake Agnes Tea House. The trail to the Lake Agnes Tea House starts at the front of the lake near the Fairmont Chateau Hotel. It is rated as a moderate trail and is under 5 miles round trip. The elevation gain is 1300 feet. And who doesn’t want to end a hike with a hot cup of tea or bowl of soup?

If you’re up for more of a challenging hike, check out these tips for hiking to the Plain of Six Glaciers Tea House. It’s a longer, but very rewarding hike. We didn’t have time to do this hike when we were there, but will definitely be hitting this trail next time we are in Banff.

Ride the gondola at Lake Louise Ski Resort

We made a last minute decision to head over to Lake Louise Ski Resort (literally across the highway from Lake Louise) because a local told us that the best grizzly bear sightings were there and to take the gondola or chair lift up to the top. So glad we did!

Quite the view overlooking the mountains and Lake Louise in the distance!

Not only did we see a few bears from the chairlift (none of the pictures we captured there were great though), but we enjoyed the best views of the Canadian Rockies from up above. You can also do one of many hikes when you get to the top, but a lot of the area is roped off due to heavy bear population on the mountain.

Jasper National Park

Athabasca Canyon/Falls

As you travel up to Jasper National Park from Banff, (which by the way, is one of the most beautiful drives you’ll ever do), make a pit stop at Athabasca Canyon and Falls and walk along the river here (come at sunset and enjoy a picnic!). This is such a stunning gorge and canyon and often you’ll see kayakers paddling down this creek. The Falls are impressive and the most powerful in all of Canada (although not the tallest).

Athabasca Falls

Maligne Canyon

Lying just outside the town of Jasper, near the Athabasca River, Maligne Canyon is arguably one the most scenic hikes in all of Jasper National Park. This is a great hike for the family too, just under 5 miles and such a gorgeous canyon, and the deepest gorge in the Canadian Rockies. As the canyon goes further back, the walls get taller and close in on the river, creating waterfalls and cascades. I’ve heard this is a great hike in the winter too!

Maligne Canyon in Jasper

Maligne Lake

While you’re in Jasper, you have to stop at the picturesque Maligne Lake with the iconic Spirit Island.

Spirit Island of Maligne Lake

Columbia Ice Fields

We wish we could’ve made it all the way to the Columbia Ice Fields (I guess that just means we will have to come back!), because everyone talks about this being the highlight of their trip in Jasper. It is also one of the most accessible glaciers in the world. The Columbia Ice Fields is found on one of the most spectacular mountain highways with unsurpassed mountain scenery paralleling the Great Divide, Bow and Crowfoot Glaciers, Athabasca Falls and Peyto Lake.

You can take a tour through Brewster Travel which has been highly recommended to us by several friends. This giant bus with special tires takes you up onto the Columbia Glacier where you can hike around on these incredible polar ice fields! They also offer tours to include the Glacier Sky Walk where you walk out onto a glass walkway hundreds of feet above the Sunwapta Valley.

Who doesn’t want to ride a super bus over a glacier?!

Peyto Lake

Last but not least, you can’t go to Jasper National Park without visiting the famous Peyto Lake. Much like all the glacier fed alpine lakes in Alberta, this lake is also a color blue that looks fake or photo-shopped (trust us, it hasn’t been)! There is a short walk to an overlook (pictured here) and also other hikes around the area if you want to explore more.

Peyto Lake in Jasper National Park

If you need other ideas on things to do in Alberta, Canada be sure to read this guide for family activities in Alberta, Canada.

And, looking for good hiking gear to include shoes, hiking poles, clothing, and other necessities to keep you comfortable and dry on your hikes? Check out our hiking gear, that we’ve personally tested (and kid approved!).

Want to get your kids out in nature and on the trails more but not sure how to do it? After years of trial and error and figuring out what works best we’ve got 17 best tips for hiking with kids of ALL ages, and yes, even for YOU too!

First though, let’s lay it all on the table.

Hiking with children can be A LOT of work. It’s so much hard work, that at times it feels like it’s not worth it! BUT…once I reach the top of a trail with my family (and of course, some glorious moments along the way), Mother Earth shows us all her wonders as we breathlessly take it all in. The views and the peace and quiet make all the hard effort worth it. And the best part, hiking teaches so many life lessons!! The feeling of reaching the peak of the trail can be translated into our life’s journey–finally tasting the sweet reward at the end of a hard struggle.

*This post contains affiliate links, which means we receive a small compensation if you make a purchase clicking the links.

My greatest parenting goal in life it to teach my kids that work, sweat and struggle are good for them because they will appreciate the outcome or the “summit” even more. Starting kids hiking young is a great way to build their endurance and love for the outdoors, but you can start at any age.

So don’t sweat it before you even start hiking, use these tips to keep the mom’s (or dad’s) anxiety to a minimum when planning a hike and MAXIMIZE the joy of being in nature together. And get ready for the euphoria you will experience when you all reach the peak, it is so worth it!

Preparation and What to Pack

1. Make safety a priority

Choose a “spotter” (friend, family member, neighbor) that knows when you are leaving and which trail you are doing. As an extra precaution, take a photo of yourself and your kiddos before leaving for the hike if possible and send to your spotter, so that in the case of an emergency, workers know who they are looking for.

2. Always carry a first aid kit and fire starter kit

Make sure to always pack Band-Aids, anti-itch cream, Ibuprophen, emergency flare or whistle for each person, a pocket knife, flint or waterproof matches. We love this great Coleman travel size first aid kit.

Or you can make your own portable first aid kit.

3. Bring plenty of water

Along with water, always bring a method to filter water such as Life Straw (you drink straight out of the water source with this special straw) or this Sawyer mini water filtration system, just in case you run out. We are also big fans of these Geigerrig hydration backpacks because you can carry more water and it’s easier for kids to carry their own water and have quick access to it. Make sure to bring good headlamps or a flashlight and batteries, and a good sunscreen with zinc-oxide is a definite must. Also, keep extra water in the car for when you return or to share with another hiker who is in need.

4. Take a map of the area and a compass

It’s a good idea to grab a trail map if offered at the trail head. On the trail take the opportunity to teach the kids how to use the map and compass. You can even have fun with these compass games before the hike to learn about the compass and how to work it. These are also some good ideas on games for a map or compass.

5. Bring plenty of snacks

We can’t emphasize this enough. Bring all the snacks. It’s better to be over-prepared than under-prepared when it comes to food and being in the wilderness. Create your own trail mix bar the night before and let each child carry their own baggie of goodies. We also love this easy snack pack for a variety of healthy snacks to take with you on the go (if you don’t have time to prepare anything at home!).

It’s a good idea to pack some high protein energy such as beef jerky and nuts too, and even a few “treats” or comfort food for those meltdown moments with your kids. Suckers or gum are a great treat because they last longer than candy. While you’re hiking, it’s important to take snack breaks so those little ones can rest their legs and re-fuel!

Taking a snack break while hiking in Bryce Canyon

6. Invest in good shoes

Good hiking boots or shoes will keep the tears to a minimum (trust us, you don’t need extra whining or end up with blisters on your hand!). We recommend these awesome Vasque hiking boots and we also love these Merrell hiking boots for kids because they offer great ankle support (which comes in handy while hiking on uneven terrain!) and they are waterproof (also important when dealing with potential weather or wet and muddy trails). Super comfy, well-made and they will last a long time. (See our Gear for our men’s and women’s picks.) We also prefer wool socks to cotton socks because not only are they warm, but offer added moisture, wick-free protection.

7. Wear layers

Even in the middle of the summer, (especially in the mountains or desert where the weather can change in an instant), it is wise to be prepared with extra layers. We recommend lightweight, breathable short or long-sleeved shirts as a base-layer, and then a rain jacket or lightweight down jacket for added warmth and protection against wind, rain and colder temperatures. (See our Gear for men’s and women’s options.)

For the Trail

8. Play games on the trail

Kids can get bored hiking for long periods of time, so it’s important to make the hike fun. We are fans of playing games on the trail because they keep the kids motivated, but also distracted as to what they are doing–a lot of walking! There are some great trail games that are easy to do and most importantly, they make hiking enjoyable for even the littlest! We have also done nature scavenger hunts which give kids the chance to learn about their surroundings while they are hiking. This sensory scavenger hunt is also great.

If you are hiking in a National Park, make sure to get a free Junior Ranger packet for each kid! This awesome program allows kids to learn about the national park they are visiting, as well as have fun with different games and activities while you are out on the trail! Once the kids complete the packet, make sure to visit the Ranger station so they can become official Junior Rangers (sworn in by a Park Ranger) and get a badge!

Working on Junior Ranger packet while taking a rest break in Olympic National Park.

And if your family wants to take it to the next level, there are orienteering clubs across the country where you can go off the beaten path on foot, by canoe, by ski, etc and explore trails galore!

9. Take frequent stops

Breaking up a hike by taking rest breaks and allowing the kids to play and explore in nature is one of the most important aspects of hiking with kids. (*Note: When planning a hike and figuring out how long it will take, it’s a good idea to double the time you think it will take you because of stops). Taking breaks is a great way to keep kids motivated and focused on just getting to the next “pit stop” instead of the end goal or making it to the top of the trail. In general, kids can go a lot further if the hike is broken up into segments. You can decide if you want to break up the hike in time segments (for example, walk 30 minutes, play for 10-15 minutes), or if you want to choose landmarks ahead (on a map) for your stops.

It’s also good to let the younger children take a load off by carrying them at times. You can even get the older kids to help with that!

10. It’s OK to get dirty

This may seem like a no-brainer (let’s be honest, if you mix kids with hiking, they’re going to get dirty!), however allowing your kids to actually play in the dirt and mud is so important and therapeutic for them (and good for those sensory parts of the brain!).  So, get over your OCD of trying to keep kids clean outdoors and just let them go for it!

Stomping around in the mud!

11. Look for wildlife

Kids (and adults) love spotting wildlife while hiking outdoors. One of the best parts of hiking is finding wildlife. It’s is a great way to learn about the animals and species they encounter first-hand, so take advantage of these opportunities by asking them questions and teaching them about what they see!

Inspecting a banana slug

12. Mix it up and go somewhere new

Exploring new places with kids is always a good idea and makes the hiking experience extra special rather than sticking to the normal trails that you are used to. Try going canyoneering sometime (hiking mixed with rappelling and climbing), which is so much fun and an amazing way to explore a slot canyon (just make sure you go with a guide or someone experienced). Or maybe go explore a trail with a lot of waterfalls! Finding new, unique places will make the hike and the memories of doing it together more memorable.

Exploring Peekaboo Canyon in Grand Staircase-Escalante, Utah, an easy, fun slot canyon for kids.

Walking behind waterfalls at Silver Falls State Park, Oregon.

13. Hike in or near water

It’s a well known fact that just about every kid loves water. Try finding a hike where they can play or walk in water. Just make sure you have to proper shoes and clothing for that kind of hike! We can’t get enough of our kids Keen sandals because they are perfect for water activities (and comfortable for hiking still!), but also have a close-toed sole making them ideal for not stubbing any little toes!

Hiking in a small creek at Willis Creek

14. Share stories along the trail or sing songs

One of my favorite things about hiking as a family is it is our time to connect with each other without the distractions of home or media (the TV!). We exchange stories, sing songs and usually end up laughing a lot!

15. Find hiking sticks

Kids love hiking with sticks and they love finding the perfect one all by themselves! Trekking poles are also great, especially for longer hikes and can really make a difference in keeping balance and making the hike easier.

16. Hike with friends

This may be one of our best tips for hiking with kids. Hiking with friends is always more fun if you can plan together ahead, and the bonus is kids will complain a lot less when they are with their friends!

Getting silly with friends on the trail.

17. Enjoy the view

Don’t get caught up in getting to the final destination to enjoy the view. Remember it’s all about the journey! Stop along the way and bask in all that Mother Nature has to offer. Hiking has so many great benefits both physically and psychologically. Read our article on how nature can act as medicine.

Enjoying the view along the trail at Bryce Canyon.

So get out in the great outdoors with your kids and see what new magical memories you can create together!