Spending time in nature can help improve a child’s confidence, foster a sense of discovery and nurture environmental stewards of tomorrow. Here are five ways your family can enjoy the great outdoors:
1) Birding in Tubac, Ariz. Southern Arizona is considered one of the nation’s best spots for birding. Declare the historic, family-friendly Tubac Golf Resort & Spa your base camp and get to exploring. Hike from the resort, which is on the 500-acre Otero Ranch in the Santa Cruz River Valley, and appreciate views of the Tumacacori and Santa Rita peaks in the distance. When not spotting hummingbirds and elegant trogons, enjoy a round of golf, local art or the spa. The Tubac Takes Flight.
Contact: tubacgolfresort.com
2) Dive to discover the world. From Bonaire and Grand Cayman to Yap and Palau, Family Dive Adventures and Kids Sea Camp provide education about the underwater world and the tools needed to become safe, confident divers. Children and their parents will learn about coral reefs, sharks, manta rays and the latest in global marine conservation during Kids Sea Camp weeks.
Contact: familydivers.com
3) Hike the canyons in Springdale, Utah. Find your way into southern Utah’s canyon country. From curvaceous slot canyons to tabletop plateaus, this peaceful yet grand countryside offers a visual bonanza of color, shape and form. Consider the Narrows, a spectacular 16-mile corridor that requires one rigorous day for fit family members. Better yet, choose the Bottoms Up hike that lets hikers see the most stunning aspects of the canyon in four to six hours. Numerous day hikes, mountain biking and stargazing options abound.
