Kids Activities

Many of Yellowstone's most popular areas are easily accessible via paved trails and boardwalks -- this list includes the Old Faithful area as well as other geyser basins, Mammoth Hot Springs, and the Lower Falls at the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone. You should have no problems with strollers in those locations.  Please note, however, that the boardwalks can be slippery if near geothermal activity, so be extra careful!

One good hike I can suggest is the Back Basin Trail in the Norris Geyser Basin.  It's a 1.5-mile loop that passes Emerald Spring, Steamboat Geyser, Cistern Spring and Echinus Geyser. 

For more great walks and hikes click here:  (http://www.ohranger.com/yellowstone/walking-hiking)

Have a great trip!

Here are a number of accessible trails in the park; broken down by region.

PARADISE
The Nisqually Vista Trail: Using a steep paved ramp leading from the main trailhead at the upper parking lot, users can reach the lower meadows. Upper trails are very steep. Use caution.

LONGMIRE
The Trail of the Shadows: With a round trip length of 0.7 mile, this trail begins across the park road from the National Park Inn. Approximately half of the trail is accessible. Signs along the trail describe the early homesteading and development of the mineral springs.

SUNRISE
Sourdough Ridge Trail: Beginning at the north side of the parking area at Sunrise, this trail makes a 1 mile loop through the Sunrise Meadows. On clear days, a gentle climb to the top of the ridge offers breathtaking views. A booklet explains the fragile environment and some of the life forms found there. Although not accessible to wheelchairs, this trail is used by many families with strollers.

KAUTZ CREEK
Kautz Creek Trail: A very short, fully accessible trail leads from across the road from the Kautz Creek picnic area to an overlook of the 1947 debris flow. This trail is under snow in winter.

You can find out more about accessibility at Mount Rainier on the NPS website.

Since recording began, the average daily June temp. in Acadia is 62° F.  It can be considerably warmer and colder depending on the recent front, however.  June is a beautiful month to visit.  For more on weather trends in Acadia National park as well as the broader area see this link:

http://www.weather.com/outlook/recreation/outdoors/overview/MENPAC

Some of our favorite things to do in Acadia are exploring the historic Carriage Roads and enjoying tasty popovers at Jordan Pond House.

Also check out the recommendations on our Sights to See and Things to Do pages. Our Only ad Day and Just for Kids sections will also have some good tips!

Lastly, check out this list of 22 fun things to do with kids!

We hope you have a great trip! Be sure to come back and let us know how it goes!

The nearest parks to Chicago that feature caves and caverns are Illinois Caverns State Natural Area and Cave in Rock State Park. They're both over a five-hour drive from Chicago, however.

I hope you have an exciting time exploring Illinois' caves. Be sure to check back in at OhRanger.com after you trip to share you park experiences with us!

You might want to talk to a park official about this one! The National Park Service works each and every day to protect park resources while still providing for visitor enjoyment of the park. You may be able to identify the best person to contact here.