Abbott Lake Trail is a one-mile loop around Abbott Lake and the least difficult of the Peaks of Otter Hiking Trails. The trail takes hikers through a woodland forest and open field, offering a close-up view of this picturesque lake.
Trail is ADA Accessible. This is also a kid-friendly TRACK trail.
Every evening from late May to October, Brazilian free-tailed bats emerge from Carlsbad Cavern in search of food. Prior to their flight, a ranger will give an informative talk about the bats. This free program takes place at the Bat Flight Amphitheater at the entrance to Carlsbad Caverns. No reservations are required.
U.S. Department of the Interior. (n.d.). Bat flight program. National Parks Service. https://www.nps.gov/cave/planyourvisit/bat_flight_program.htm
A short hike to a viewpoint on top of a rocky talus slope with incredible views of the Shenandoah Valley, Massanutten Mountain, and beyond. This hike is also a designated TRACK Trail, featuring a self-guided brochure and informational sign that turns your visit into a fun and exciting outdoors experience for kids of all ages.
Cape Hatteras National Seashore protects parts of three barrier islands: Bodie Island, Hatteras Island, and Ocracoke Island. Beach and sound access ramps, campgrounds, nature trails, and lighthouses can be found and explored on all three islands.
From: https://www.nps.gov/caha/planyourvisit/basicinfo.htm
Fort Pickens, built in 1834 to protect Pensacola Bay and Pensacola Navy Yard, remained in use until 1947. The five walls of Fort Pickens allowed cannons to guard from all directions. While not all batteries are accessible to the public today, several are camouflaged in part by nature and provide exciting exploration for all ages. Fort Pickens is nestled on the end of Santa Rosa Island, providing panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico and Pensacola Bay. Explorers can enjoy camping, hiking, fishing, and swimming.
Gulf Islands National Seashore (Fla. and Miss.)
Horseshoe Bend is a stunning landmark in the Glen Canyon National Recreation Park. Part of the Colorado River, Horseshoe Bend is about nine miles downstream from the Grand Canyon National Park. Those who hike the trail are rewarded with a breathtaking view of this unique landmark.
Horseshoe Bend National Military Park (Ala.)
Participate in “Horseshoe Crab Science” ranger activity. Join Cape Cod National Seashore ecologists and researchers to learn more about horseshoe crabs and how the population is faring today. Meet at East Harbor, off High Head Road in North Truro.
Kayak through the waters off the coast of Florida to the 10,000 islands. In this water adventures families can view the wildlife home to this area, as well as explore the mangroves.
The Kephart Prong Trail offers your children a chance to explore Smokies' history from the logging era through the days of the Civilian Conservation Corps. This area was heavily logged prior to the establishment of the park, however forests have reclaimed the landscape since the days of logging. Keep on the lookout, though—you may still find evidence of the old logging railway.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park (N.C. and Tenn.)
Lake Mead Recreational Area offers a wide variety of both land and water activities amidst a striking desert background. Visitors can enjoy horseback riding, hiking, and camping, as well as boating, kayaking, fishing, and even scuba diving.
Lake Mead National Recreation Area (Ariz. and Nev.)