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Everyday Adventure Fam

Everyday Adventure Fam

Find the Wonder in Every Day

Category: Death Valley National Park

Family Travel : 50 hours in Death Valley National Park

February 3, 2019.Reading time 29 minutes.

Details about our family road trip from Southern California to Death Valley National Park over 3 days and 2 nights

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About Me

Hi, I’m Felicia – a mom of two boys, wife, doctor, adventure enthusiast, food lover, and photographer.  I spend a lot of time and energy researching fun things and interesting things for my family to do, explore, and eat – so I created this blog to share some information that might be helpful to others.

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Finding Wonder in Every Day!

everydayadventurefam

How to book a stay at the historic Crystal Cove Be How to book a stay at the historic Crystal Cove Beach Cottages in Newport Beach, California : (📌save this post to make it happen!) 

Start by setting up an account at www.reservecalifornia.com

1.  Crystal Cove Cottage reservations are released daily, six months in advance.  Log into your Reserve California account and be ready to refresh the screen at right at 8am to try booking any newly released dates. 

2.  If you don’t succeed with the above step, don’t get discouraged. I personally have never managed to book a cottage 6 months out! 😅 Try looking for a cancellation. Scan the calendar to see if anything opens up. I have noticed these tend to open up around 8am. This is how we’ve booked our stays.

3.  For locals or those who happen to be in the area, visit the Check-in Office(Cottage #35 at the top of the bluff) at 11AM to see if there are last-minute cancellations. If there are, you will be entered into a drawing, with others who are present, to stay at the cottage for the night. 

As noted on their website, “If it looks like everything is booked, then it likely is. Hundreds of people are also trying to book open dates.” Don’t give up. Keep trying these above strategies with persistence, and you’ll eventually get to stay here! 

In the meantime, the Crystal Cove historic district is lovely place for a day trip - we love spending the day at the beach, exploring the tide pools and grabbing a bite to eat at the shake shack or nice meal at the beachcomber restaurant. On warm summer evenings, you can even rent a fire pit to enjoy on the beach with friends from the beachcomber. ❤️

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Everyday Adventure Fam is a fun-loving family based out of ☀️ Southern California with busy “traditional” schedules who intentionally carve out time to unplug, explore, adventure, and make memories together. Follow @everydayadventure for travel ideas, outdoor tips, and inspiration for finding the wonder in every day! 

#crystalcovecottages #socalmoms #socalliving #socalblogger #bestcampsites #newportbeach #glamping #castateparks #ocparks #lagunabeach #crystalcovestatepark #uniquestays #makememories
Kicked off the kids’ summer break with a quick s Kicked off the kids’ summer break with a quick staycation at Crystal Cove State Park 🌊✨❤️🌅 6.3.2023

Stay tuned because I’ll share how to book one of these highly desirable cottages in my next reels! 

**************************
Everyday Adventure Fam is a fun-loving family based out of ☀️ Southern California with busy “traditional” schedules who intentionally carve out time to unplug, explore, adventure, and make memories together. Follow @everydayadventure for travel ideas, outdoor tips, and inspiration for finding the wonder in every day! 

#outdoorfamily #socalmoms #outdoorasian #aapifamily #socalblogger #ocmoms #optoutside #multigenerational #bringthegrandparents #adventuretogether #liveintentionally #thisadventurelife #diversityinadventure #newportbeach #crystalcovestatepark #crystalcovecottages #visitcalifornia #castateparks #theoutsideiscalling #socalliving
School’s out, sun’s out… feels like summer ☀️💦 

What are you looking forward to most this summer? Pool days? Beach days? Staycations, Road trips or ✈️ travel? 

Ps:  Our pool wasn’t heated, hence the shocked expression after the first jump 😆 This is our first summer (actually- ever) with a pool, and we are so excited to make lots of  memories in our backyard! 

#wongsjumpforjoy #feelslikesummer #summervibes #schoolsoutforsummer #summerbreak #socalfamily #socalliving #ocmoms #socalmoms #backyardgoals #pooldesign #livingourbestlives #workhardplayhard #choosejoy #adventuretogether #backyarddesign #byemaygrey #funmom #playwithyourkids
Scroll down for Upick 🫐 blueberry info in OC : Scroll down for Upick 🫐 blueberry info in OC :

I’ve been picking fruit 🍓🫐🍏🍒 with my boys since they were babies, and when I asked them (now 8 & 10) to go last weekend, they enthusiastically said yes! They told me they love our annual tradition of berry picking over the spring/ summer 🥰

Growing up in an immigrant household where my parents worked multiple jobs each, and our weekends were jam packed with extracurricular and enrichment activities, I really appreciated the moments during my childhood where we were simply present and enjoying time together as a family - not rushing, not achieving. Even in my forties, I fondly reminisce about strawberry picking and apple picking from my childhood.

Our lives are today are busy as well - also with demanding work hours and extracurricular activities. However, I make it a priority to slow down with my kids often and regularly. While I know that my boys may not share my interests forever (will they still do this with me when they’re teens? 🥹), my heart is happy that the adventures I plan for us seem to be becoming core memories for them as well.  I hope one day they’ll look back on their childhood and fondly remember these love-filled everyday adventures.❤️

📍 Blueberry picking at Lighthouse Charitable Foundation, 26351 Via Canon, Dana Point, California
U~Pick season anticipated to remain open until at least the end of July, but please check their IG page @lighthousecommunitygarden for updates and hours 

**************************
Everyday Adventure Fam is a fun-loving family based out of ☀️ Southern California with busy “traditional” schedules who intentionally carve out time to unplug, explore, adventure, and make memories together. Follow @everydayadventure for travel ideas, outdoor tips, and inspiration for finding the wonder in every day!
 
#treasuredchildhood #corememories #corememory #childhoodunplugged #socalmoms #ocmoms #blueberrypicking #blueberryseason #upick #momofboyslife #thisadventurelife #optoutside #workhardplayhard #danapoint #everydayadventures #outdoorasian #aapi #1000hoursoutside #doctorlife #liveintentionally #bepresentnow #slowdown #parenthood_moments
May 2023 #photodump This month hasn’t been wit May 2023 #photodump 

This month hasn’t been without challenges and lows (bikes were stolen, work was so demanding I developed severe jaw pain/ headaches for a couple weeks 😬), but I’m thankful for these moments full of love, connection and joy…

1. 🦖 Cabazon Dinosaurs is a must stop if you’re in the Palm Springs area
2. 🪩 24 hours of mom time in Joshua Tree with @mthrco #mthrgoestocamp 
3. 🏃🏻‍♂️ I rushed back home from Joshua Tree to cheer on A and his classmates at the Irvine Junior Games - his school relay team came in 3rd place in the city!
4. 🎻 A’s first orchestra concert 
5. 💦 We had a great time at @hipcamp Oasis Senter where they had a private spring fed hot tub and swimming hole!
6. 👯‍♀️ Reunited with my friend of 20+ years who was San Diego for work - @alijacobslevitan #TEENmag1997
7. 🎂 We celebrated B’s birthday on set for a fun multigenerational shoot for KOA. 
8. ❤️ Grandparents proving that they are 75 years old young at the new waterpark @wildriverswaterparkirvine 
9. 🫐 While Jason worked all Memorial Day weekend, I took the boys blueberry and mulberry picking
10. ☀️Met up with fellow AAPI creative IG friend @curiouswuwu to collab on a fun reels. I’m posting this blooper as a teaser and to hold us accountable to actually share the final edit! 
 
IG started out as a visual journal for me and my family, and that continues to be the main “why” I continue to post consistently. These photo dumps feel like OG IG 😊 and force me to reflect on each month that passes. 

I also enjoy sharing helpful info and tips (ie camping spots, travel guides, inspo to get outside more) here when I can. There was more I wanted to share this month - especially with it being AANHPI heritage month and Mental Health Awareness Month. But, I didn’t have the capacity after parenting, taking care of others through work and my own health issues. So I’ll try to share more of that in June and beyond. 💛

#visualdiary #collectmemories #liveintentionally #choosejoy #momlife #doctorlife #socalliving #socalmoms #ocmoms #thisadventurelife #adventuretogether #aapifamily #multigenerational
ASMR : Desert tortoise searching for a cactus flow ASMR : Desert tortoise searching for a cactus flower to eat 🐢🌸 I took this from a distance with my iphone,  totally mesmerized. It was the coolest and cutest part of my desert hike 🥰

I saw a tortoise both times I hiked this trail in Joshua Tree -during the spring, 10 years apart. Trail details and warm weather hiking tips can be found on my previous reels! 🌴 

#tortoisegram #tortoiseofinstagram #deserttortoise #cutetortoise #tortoiseasmr #joshuatree #alltrails #optoutside #naturelover #thisadventurelife #socalhiking #mojavedesert 

Tortoise sighting in the desert | Joshua Tree desert hike | cute tortoise eating a cactus flower |
My @Coleman insulated drinkware (this one is the C My @Coleman insulated drinkware (this one is the Connector Stainless Steel Water Bottle with Wide Mouth Lid 40oz 💦) kept my water ice-cold 🧊, and more importantly - me hydrated 😅 while I hiked the beautiful Forty Nine Palms Oasis Trail in Joshua Tree, California.  AD  This was a beautiful hike, and I got lucky and saw a desert tortoise!

As the temperatures 🌡️ start rising late spring and summer (especially in the desert 🌵), we look forward to continuing to get outside and enjoy nature! However, it’s important to consider the following safety tips: 

 ⏰ Plan ahead, and avoid hiking between 10am and 4pm during the summer
📵Tell someone where you are going and when you plan to be back (cell service is limited to none sometimes! )
💦 Bring plenty of water - even on short hikes Be ready to turn around after half of your water is gone. 
🧂 Salty snacks are important to compensate for salt loss from sweating. 
🥵 Be aware of the signs of dehydration and heat exhaustion. 
❗️ If you’re experiencing extreme thirst, dry mouth, headaches, and dizziness, it’s time to get out of the sun, rest, and drink water with an electrolyte supplement or sports drink. 

If you’d like to see more tortoise content, drop a 🐢 in the comments! 

#colemancollective #colemanpartner #theoutsideiscalling #fortyninepalmsoasis #joshuatree #hikesmart #summerhiking #socalhikes #optoutside #outdoorasian #diversifyoutdoors #socalhiker #socalmoms 

Hike safe and smart this summer | leave no trace | use reusable water bottles | Joshua Tree national park | desert tortoise sighting | hiking tips
When’s the next dance party? 🪩💃🏻🙌 I When’s the next dance party? 🪩💃🏻🙌

In 2023, I’ve danced in a backcountry yurt 🛖 in Idaho mountains and and while glamping ⛺️ in the Mojave desert. The intersection of the outdoors and dancing may seem random, but these two things have always been so therapeutic for me.  Add a bunch of super awesome mamas 👯‍♀️ who continuously create safe and encouraging spaces for one another = the best time! ✨

Dancing, nature, cooking, and the occasional girl’s trip are forms of self care for me. In the spirt of mental health awareness month, what are some things that you do for your self care? 

PS big thanks to @d_lillian for hiring a DJ, bringing the disco lights and creating such a fun night for us at #mthrgoestocamp May 6 2023
📍 @autocamp Joshua Tree

 #selfcareisnotselfish #fillyourcup #motherhoodjourney #autocamp #autocampjoshuatree #glamping #airstream #joshuatree #optoutside #womensupportingwomen #wellnessretreat #maketimeforyourself #mentalhealthawarenessmonth #socalmoms #ocmoms #doctorlife #danceitout 

Motherhood journey | self care |  make yourself a priority | healing vibes | joshua tree | girls weekend | moms retreat | dance party
When’s the last time you did something for yours When’s the last time you did something for yourself? 

Although I have long known and even preach to others that “self care is not selfish” and “you can’t pour from an empty cup”, its actually pretty hard to actualize this wisdom and advice when you’re default role is caring for others and juggling a kazillion things.  I love being a mom, and feel purpose through my work as a physician. However, I sometimes notice that in a household of boys and after considering others from morning to night, I miss cultivating the feminine and other sides of myself. 

I attended the @mthrco retreat at @autocamp Russian river valley with some old friends and made new friends 2 years ago. It was such a special weekend filled with self care and community - fireside chats, a nature walk, crafting, yoga, wine, and so much more.  It was a feast of love, and for the first time a while, I felt rested and restored.

This year, I couldn’t attend the entire long weekend due to work and kids’ sports obligations, but jumped on the extended day pass option and went to Joshua Tree for just under 24 hours of wellness speakers, community, good food, nature, dancing 🪩 and me time. 

I know I’m lucky to be able to get away like this - my husband was working, so my parents watched the kids during this time. However, I also know that it’s important and needs to be prioritized from time to time. 

If you can’t remember the last time you did something for yourself or it’s been a while, I’m here to give that nudge to make a plan and go! Trust me- it’ll feel good ❤️. 

PS if you’d like to attend one of these, they’re offered multiple times a year - check @mthrco for details!

Headshot photo 📷 @maddyecclesphoto 
#mthrgoestocamp May 6 2023
📍 @autocamp 

 #selfcareisnotselfish #fillyourcup #motherhoodjourney #autocamp #autocampjoshuatree #glamping #airstream #joshuatree #optoutside #womensupportingwomen #wellnessretreat #maketimeforyourself #mentalhealthawarenessmonth 
#socalmoms #ocmoms #doctorlife 

Motherhood journey | self care |  make yourself a priority | healing vibes | joshua tree | girls weekend | moms retreat | glamping in airstreams
Cabazon Dinosaurs 🦖 “The World’s biggest di Cabazon Dinosaurs 🦖
“The World’s biggest dinosaurs!”
📍 50770 Seminole Drive, Cabazon, CA 92230

Our boys always ask to stop here on our way to or from Palm Springs/ desert. While we often just admire the large dinosaurs from the road (you can take photos with a couple of them from the parking lot for free), the boys asked to enter the park visit the exhibits this time. We said yes because who knows how much longer they’ll enjoy it 🥺. #theygrowupsofast 

ENTRY to the dinosaur park:
$15 for adults (13-55)
$13 for children (3-12)
$11 for seniors and military 

HOURS (ticket sales end 30 min before closing)
Monday: 9am-6pm
Tuesday through Thursday: 9am-5pm 
Friday: 9am-6:30pm
Saturday & Sunday: 9am-7pm 

Bookmark this fun spot to visit with your Dino loving friends 🦕 if you’re heading to the Palm Springs area! 

**************************
Everyday Adventure Fam is a fun-loving family based out of ☀️ Southern California with busy “traditional” schedules who intentionally carve out time to unplug, explore, adventure, and make memories together. Follow @everydayadventure for travel ideas, outdoor tips, and inspiration for finding the wonder in every day! 

SoCal daytrips | things to do with kids in Palm Springs | world’s largest dinosaurs | SoCal iconic places to visit | fun things to do with kids in Southern California 

#socalmoms #riversidemoms #ocmoms #dinosaurs #accidentallywesanderson #dinolovers #cabazondinosaurs #cabazon #visitpalmsprings #visitcalifornia
Father and Son moonlight bike ride 🌙🚴‍♂️✨⛺️❤️
📍 Oasis Senter @hipcamp 

After our taco dinner, the boys wanted to go on a quick bike ride around the campground. There were no cars, and it was so peaceful. Although it looks quite dark, this was just after sunset. I wanted to share our tip to add bike wheel and body lights, in addition to the usual bike lights and headlamps. Not only are the lights fun, they’re practical for increased visibility and safety! You can find the link to the bike wheel lights in our Amazon camping list in bio.

This part I wish I didn’t have to share 😔 , but we learned a lesson the hard way that the only way to avoid bike theft is to keep your bikes near you and that may mean bringing them into a hotel room, or if camping- the tent/rv. During our weekend in the Palm Desert, we stayed the last night at the Best Western Cathedral City. Despite the bikes locked to each other and locked into our car bike hitch rack, signs noting security cameras (which we later learned did not capture the parking spots adjacent to the front entrance in the lot), security patrol presence… these two bikes were stolen overnight. We filed a police report, but it seems unlikely we’ll get them back. Thankfully, it’s just stuff, and no one was hurt. I hope by sharing this, we can help others avoid bike theft this summer!

#bikingadventures #bikingwithkids #campingvibes #bikelights #campingwithkids #outsidetogether #optoutside #bikesafety #biketheft #biketheftawareness #palmdesert #fatherandson 

Summer camping | Biking adventures | Bike accessories | Bike theft prevention and awareness
Not sure what to cook while camping? Bring your fa Not sure what to cook while camping? Bring your favorite home meals on the road and outside! 🌮 Our boys love crispy tacos so that’s what we had for dinner on our recent camping trip! 🙌

Tip: Prep whatever you can ahead of time and use shortcuts. I premade the taco meat at home so all we had to do was reheat it on the camp stove. Whereas at home we’ll have freshly chopped tomatoes and onions, we use store bought pico de gallo for a topping when camping! I packed the shredded lettuce and cheese in a reusable container. You can crisp the shells in foil over the fire or quickly in the pan. We wrapped them in foil and let them sit out in the desert sun for a bit ☀️.

Extra tip: I like to bring cheese boards camping because they make for a yummy and pretty snack as dinner is being prepared/ warmed up. 

For more camping tips (gear, meal ideas, getting started as family) - check out our blog (link in bio or over at www.everydayadventurefam.com ) or camping related IG guides and highlights! Feel free to DM me as well with questions l, as I love helping others get started. 💚⛺️ 

📍Oasis Senter, Sky Valley, California (approx 30 min from Palm Springs) @hipcamp 

Camping meals | camping food | camping meal ideas | taco night | outside together 

#camping #hipcamp #hipcampmate #theoutsideiscalling #colemancollective #outdoorasian #diversityinadventure #diversifyoutdoors #letsgocamping #campingmeals #taconight #campingfamily
🥾🌴☀️ Save this hiking spot if you’re v 🥾🌴☀️ Save this hiking spot if you’re visiting Coachella Valley! 

It’s starting to warm up here in Southern California, and especially in the desert 🌵. When we were in Coachella Valley last weekend camping at the Oasis Senter @hipcamp in Sky Valley, we found this beautiful shaded walk at the Thousand Palms Oasis Preserve - 10 minutes from our camp, or about 25 minutes from Palm Springs.  We went around 8:30am and it was already in the high 80sF that morning. We spent about 30 minutes exploring the shaded first part of the McCallum Trail which included a boardwalk through a palm oasis, but there are many other trails here to explore!

Tips for visiting this desert oasis: 
📍 : 29200 Thousand Palms Canyon Road, Thousand Palms, CA 92276
💲: There is no admission fee, however donations are appreciated.
⏰: May 1- Oct 31 Sat and Sun 7am to 7pm; Nov 1 to April 30 Wed to Sun 7am to 5pm 
🚽 : The bathrooms are open during posted hours. They are primitive. Consider using the facilities at your home or hotel before your arrival.
🚗 : No parking onsite for public. You have to park on the main road and cross the road to walk through gate to access the trails.  Do not leave any valuables in sight as car break-ins have been reported here
♿️ : There is limited access for people with disabilities. The trails are sandy and/or rocky or have steps that are not suitable for wheelchairs or other mobility equipment.
🐶 :  Dogs and other pets (including therapy or comfort animals) are not allowed on the trails. 
🌿 No collecting or drones. Please stay on trails and leave no trace. 
☀️ During summer, try to hike early in the morning or evening when the sun is less intense and temps a bit cooler
😎 Don’t forget sun protection
💦 Make sure you bring drinking water. If going longer distances, bring gatorade or electrolyte water. 

💚Stay safe- focus on fun and safety, not on finishing. Do not risk heat stroke or dehydration hiking this summer! 

#desertoasis #visitcalifornia #palmsprings #palmdesert #socalhikes #optoutside #leavenotrace #recreateresponsibly #outdoorfamily #coachellavalley #alltrails 

Best hikes near Palm Springs | desert oasis in palm desert | beautiful hikes |
If you’re looking for an EPIC place to camp… t If you’re looking for an EPIC place to camp… this is it! 🌴💦

📍 Oasis Senter , Sky Valley (near  Desert Hot Springs), CA @hipcamp 
🏕️ Options include glamping tents or bring your own tent/RV (no hookups). This is a huge property that is great for groups!

Campground Amenities include:
🚽 a clean flush toilet and shower 🚿 
💧 drinking water
🍳 communal kitchen with a sink for dishes, fridge, freezer, bbq grill and gas stove.
💡 Beautiful shaded area with string lights to hang out
💦 hot spring fed swimming pond and hot tub! 🙌

We went last weekend when temps reached 100F during the day. It was hot ☀️ but we kept cool by playing in the pond all afternoon! It was an absolutely dreamy place to camp, and we cannot recommend it enough. The only advice I have is if you are NOT a fan of desert heat, consider coming fall through early spring 👍

If you’re new to hipcamp you can use code : everydayadventurefam to save $10 on your first booking!

#hipcampmate #hipcamp #optoutside #skyvalley #deserthotsprings #optoutside #camping #bestcampsites #hotsprings #californiahotsprings #greaterpalmsprings #desertoasis #thisadventurelife #choosejoy #djimini3 

Best campsites | cool camping experiences | desert hot springs | camping with kids | family adventures | Palm desert | unique outdoor experiences | things to do near Palm Springs
🌸🌲🌅🚂🥾 #photodump📍Alishan Nationa 🌸🌲🌅🚂🥾 #photodump📍Alishan National Forest recreation area , April 5-6, 2023

Follow along #wongsvisittaiwan and saved story highlights for a virtual journey to Taiwan 🇹🇼 

#visittaiwan #taipeitravel #taiwantrip #chiayi #alishan #alishannationalpark #alishanforest #discovertheforest #optoutside #multigenerational #multigenerationaltravel  #adventuremom #outdoorfamily #aapifamily #outdoorasian #wongsjumpforjoy 

Taiwan in April | visiting Alishan national forest recreation area | beautiful places in Taiwan | multigenerational travel | Alishan scenic rail | beautiful hikes | travel tips
What’s the earliest you’d wake up for sunrise What’s the earliest you’d wake up for sunrise on vacation? ⛰️🌲☁️🌅 4am, 6am or pass? 🤔 
📍 Alishan, Taiwan

One of the top recommended things to do when visiting Alishan National Forest recreation area is to watch the sunrise over the mountains and clouds.

The main way to see the sunrise is to take the Alishan Forest Railway train (Zhushan line) : 
※ the one way trip to the top takes about 30 minutes.
※ you can buy the train ticket for $150 NT (<$5 USD)the day prior from 1:00pm to 4:30 pm at the Alishan main Station. Otherwise it’s advised to show up at least 30 min prior to departure the morning of. 
※ the train departure schedules change each day according to sunrise time and number of passengers. 

Between getting tickets and onto the train, this requires a super early morning. We stayed in the park at the Alishan hotel and the front desk told us if we wanted to do this, they’d call our room with a wake up call around 4am 🤯 . 

My mom, Jason and I took this train to the popular Zhushan viewing stop back in 2008 , but decided to pass this time given the  cloudy weather prediction, and considering the kids/ elders. Instead we took a private van sunrise tour to a different vista point of Yushan around 6am. Even though we didn’t see the sun rising out of the mountains, the sea of clouds was very pretty and we enjoyed some snacks from the local villagers including egg yolk cookies, wasabi peas, and preserved plums while waiting. ❤️

Follow along #wongsvisittaiwan and saved story highlights for a virtual journey to Taiwan 🇹🇼 

#visittaiwan #taipeitravel #taiwantrip #chiayi #alishan #alishannationalpark #alishanforest #discovertheforest #optoutside #multigenerational #multigenerationaltravel  #alishansunrise #sunrise 

Taiwan in April | visiting Alishan national forest recreation area | beautiful places in Taiwan | multigenerational travel | sea of clouds | best places for sunrise in Alishan | travel tips
Take a walk in the woods with us 🌲 📍 Alisha Take a walk in the woods with us 🌲 
📍 Alishan National Forest, Taiwan
4.5.23

On days 4 and 5 of our Taiwan spring break trip, we visited the Alishan national forest recreation area, in the Chiayi Township of Taiwan. We took the high speed rail from Taipei to Chiayi, then a public bus to Alishan. It was drizzling when we arrived but we put on our raincoats and ventured out into the misty forest for a beautiful afternoon hike 💚

Follow along #wongsvisittaiwan and saved story highlights for a virtual journey to Taiwan 🇹🇼 

#visittaiwan #taipeitravel #taiwantrip #chiayi #alishan #alishannationalpark #alishanforest #cypresstrees #discovertheforest #optoutside #multigenerational #multigenerationaltravel #hikingwithkids #bringthegrandparents #outsidetogether #chineseamerican 

Taiwan in April | visiting Alishan national forest recreation area | beautiful places in Taiwan | multigenerational travel | Forest bathing | family hiking adventures | hiking with kids
The best trails and scenic spots in Taroko Nationa The best trails and scenic spots in Taroko National Park (📌 Save to help plan your next visit)
 
We started our day in nearby Xincheng. There are limited hotels in the park which are pricey and often sell out. We saved some $ by staying in nearby Xincheng at the Starry Inn. We visited Taroko National park with a private driver / guide Jason (DM me for his contact info). I highly recommend this option as we had the flexibility to hike and enjoy the scenery at our own pace, which was important for group. The cost was $4500 NTD (approx. $150 USD) for 7 passengers for approximately 8 hours. 

Our guide took us around the park and to the following stops (in this order): 
* Shakadang Trail 
* Swallow Grotto
* Tunnel of Nine Turns 
* Lunch 
* Shanyue Suspension Bridge
* Changchun Eternal Spring Shine (there is a trail here, but we did not take it)

For those who enjoy more challenging hikes, there are longer hikes and ones you need get a permit for. However, we found our itinerary and the above trails manageable and enjoyable for both the kids and grandparents. 

Some additional tips for visiting Taroko National Park:
* The best time to visit is during the spring (March-May) or fall (September-November) when the weather is mild.
* Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are limited options for food and drinks inside the park.
* Be prepared for crowds, especially during the peak season. 
* If you are planning on taking a longer hike, be sure to check the weather forecast and trail conditions before you go. 
* Enjoy the beautiful scenery and please leave no trace! 

#wongsvisittaiwan #tarokonationalpark #tarokopark #hualian #visittaiwan #taipeitravel #taipeitravels #beautifuldestinations #outsidetogether #multigenerationaltravel #diversifyoutdoors #findyourpark #nationalpark #naturelovers #taiwan #exploreasia 

Guide to visiting Taroko National Park | family adventures | multigenerational adventures | explore Taiwan
Taroko Gorge(ous)! 😍 📍 Swallow Grotto Yanzi Taroko Gorge(ous)! 😍

📍 Swallow Grotto Yanzikou Trail 

This is an easy and scenic path that follows along the Liwu river and provides amazing views of the steep and narrow gorge.  There are often falling rocks on this part of the road, so each person must wear a helmet as a precaution. These helmets can be borrowed free of charge at 179.3 km on the Provincial Highway 8 (Central Cross-Island Highway) at Xipan check-in/out Helmet Service Station.

There is limited parking at trailheads throughout their park, so rather than self drive, it is recommended to take a bus or hire a driver/ tour.  We were dropped off by our driver (ours was great, DM me for his info if you’re visiting!) at the trail head and picked up after a leisurely 30-40 min walk. 

This and the Shakadang trail which I shared in the prior Taroko park reels were my two favorite trails in Taroko national park. 

As always, while enjoying and appreciating nature, please leave no trace 💚

#taroko #tarokonationalpark #tarokogorge #swallowgrotto #yanzikou #visittaiwan #wongsvisittaiwan #beautifuldestinations #taiwan #taipeitravel #alltrails #optoutside #shotoniphone #nofilter #hualien 

Best trails in Taroko national park | nature in Taiwan | hiking in Taiwan | one week in Taiwan | beautiful places in Taiwan | visit Hualien
Multi generational adventures 🥾 🌿at Taroko N Multi generational adventures 🥾 🌿at Taroko National Park ❤️

I’ll share a summary of all the spots we stopped at in this park soon, but for this post- I wanted to share a series of portraits and moments that celebrate being outside and exploring together with the ones you love ❤️ Fun fact: my parents honeymooned here! 

I shared a few days ago about how the US national parks had a big impact and lay the foundation for my lifelong love of the outdoors. I’m thankful for my parents for instilling in me a sense of wonder and curiosity from an early age. Now when I travel, I also make it a point to try to visit the national parks of that country. 

While in Taiwan, we visited several national parks and what was great about them was not only their awe-inspiring beauty, but also how accessible they were to all- our children to their grandparents and my aunt (ages 7 to 83). While there are some challenging trails (for those who are interested), there was plenty for us to see and do together.  As a daughter and as a mom, it fills my cup to be creating and sharing memories like these.

Do you tend to visit cities or parks when you travel? Perhaps a mix a both? When’s multigenerational adventure? 

📍 Taroko National Park, Hualien, Taiwan
April 4, 2023

#wongsvisittaiwan #visittaiwan #taipeitravel #taroko #tarokonationalpark #theoutdoorsisforeveryone #diversifyoutdoors #agediversity #aapi #chineseamerican #outdoorasian #trailmothers #rei #optoutside #fueledbymom #unitedstates #thisadventurelife
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