5 Epic Outdoor Spots to Hit With Your Chinook Seeds This Summer
Calling all you travelers and adventure-seekers! In honor of The National Park Service turning 100 years-old this year, we’ve taken it upon ourselves to compile a list of a few great outdoor spots to hike and camp this summer. Places like Colorado, Arizona, and Oregon are just a few states with some absolutely breathtaking scenery. Take it or leave it, but definitely don’t leave your Chinook seeds behind while you explore.
1. Colorado - Red Rocks Park
Believe it or not, Red Rocks is not just one of the world’s most well renowned music venues, it is also a haven for outdoor lovers. The official Red Rocks website boasts, “at 6,450 feet above seal level, Red Rocks Park is a unique transitional zone where the Great Plains meets the Rocky Mountains.” This park offers trails for hikers and mountain bikers, along with areas to picnic with the family and roads to cruise around for those who are just there to sightsee. Check it out this the summer and maybe catch a show! We promise it’ll be one of the most spectacular venues you’ll ever see.
*Bonus Feature: Dogs are welcome on the trails, so bring the pup(s)!
2. Colorado - Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park is 415 square miles of pure freakin’ heaven. Whether you’re looking to camp out and gaze at the starry night sky, hike and smell the wildflowers, or climb trails to the most beautiful snow-capped mountains you’ll ever see, this park is definitely one for the books. You’ll be fully immersed in everything nature has to offer, so keep an eye out for the Moose and Deer who love catching the attention of nearby hikers . Unfortunately, no dogs are allowed on the trails, but there sure are tons of things to do for the whole family!
3. Texas - Big Bend National Park
This immensely beautiful National Park is the ultimate destination for backpackers, river navigators, and hikers alike. The park has day hikes for those who love the water, ascending mountains, and hiking desert landscapes. Check out the National Park Service website to plan your trip. The possibilities are (almost) literally endless.
4. Arizona - Grand Canyon Rim Trail
This is a great hike if you’re headed to the Grand Canyon this summer and looking for an easier, family-friendly trail. Being 12 miles long, according to Everytrail.com, it’s helpful that “there are multiple shuttle stops along the way, allowing you to pick and choose the areas you want to explore.” As an added plus, Grand Canyon sunsets are ones to make your jaw drop, so plan your hike accordingly to witness the gorgeous red and orange glow on the rocks.
*Bonus feature: leashed dogs are allowed on the trail!
5. Oregon- Fall Creek Trail
This easy, family-friendly hike in Eugene offers many different perks along the way. Bring your swimsuit, as there are many swimming holes to take a dip in on this 8 mile trail. One of the truly spectacular parts of this hike is Slick Creek Cave. According to Everytrail.com, this shallow cave is where “Native Americans used to camp at while on hunting trips.” What a great place to bring the kids!
Moral of the story, get outdoors this summer and experience the wondrous landscapes that nature has to offer. Check out https://www.nps.gov/planyourvisit/fee-free-parks.htm for Free Admission Days in the National Parks, and make sure to ring in the National Park Service’s birthday on August 25th with an outdoor adventure. Bring the kids, dog(s) and most importantly, don’t forget to bring loads of Chinook seeds for a sustainable source of protein and energy to fuel you along the way!
Visit FindYourPark.com, or search the hashtag #FindYourPark on Instagram, for more information on National Park events around the country.