There are very few activities around Vancouver, BC that offer real outdoor adventure with a few local comforts. Sure, there are pretty parks such as Stanley Park and Lighthouse Park, or activities such as Grouse Mountain or the Capilano Suspension Bridge, but our favourite spot to take our little ones is the Sea to Sky Gondola, just outside Squamish, BC.
About 45 minutes from downtown Vancouver, the Sea to Sky Gondola offers people of all ages and abilities the chance to experience the beauty of the BC coast mountains without the usual heavy effort to get there. Within 10 minutes the gondola whisks visitors up the mountain to over 800m above sea level, offering views of Howe Sound, the Squamish Valley, and a beautiful panorama of the Coast Mountains.
At the top of the Gondola is the Summit Lodge. In actuality it’s nowhere near the summit; but those semantics are for another day. The lodge is beautifully crafted, with everything you’d expect in a tourist destination: A cafe, bar, and of course, a gift shop. Everything is kept pretty clean and the staff are friendly. It’s a great start and finish point for some fun on the mountain.
The star of the Summit Lodge is the patio that offers sweeping views of Howe Sound and Sky Pilot mountain. Fridays in the summer become a ton of fun with live music and the sea to sky community getting out to enjoy the late afternoon/evening.
Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge
Right at the patio is the suspension bridge offering a beautiful view of sky pilot mountain. It’s nowhere near the vertical drop of the Capilano suspension bridge, but it still offers enough to look down upon as you walk over the tree tops. But the views in the distance are the real treat, especially late in the afternoon as the sun begins to hide behind the mountains.
The suspension bridge with Sky Pilot mountain in the background.It’s worth it to wait for the right time to go across the bridge.
From there, it’s a short loop to get back to the base, where a variety of other hiking trails are available. There are also a few play structures for kids to play on; as well as a picnic area. As I’m sure you all know, when you have kids, it’s important to break up an outing with snacks, and the folks here have designed a great zone to break up each hiking loop with some other activities—including eating.
Front Country Hiking Trails
There are several trails within the patrolled boundary of the Sea to Sky gondola that all loop back to the gondola. They are much more mellow and suit the more casual crowd who isn’t a hardcore hiker.
Alpine Alley
This is the best hiking trail for kids is Alpine Alley, which is a simple loop trail with a few (fake) furry surprises. The trail starts and ends right next to the gondola, allowing for an easy exit if emotions get the best of a little one (or their adult). There are a few challenging sections for the bigger kids, but all the steep bits have a walkaround section if it’s a bit too much.
You can get a specialized map for Alpine Alley at the entrance to the trail, which also offers clues to all the different items you can find along the way. If you have only one trail to do with the kids, this is the one.
This tunnel was a hit with our 1 year old.
Panorama Trail
This trail is a bit longer, so smaller children might get bored, but it’s doable. It’s well graded and has nice construction along the bridges, offering a beautiful lookout before returning back. It’s still more of a walk thank a hike, but perfect for bringing little ones along without too much fuss.
Cruising along at the Panorama trail
Backcountry Hiking Trails
While I don’t have any official statistics, I’d guess that at least 90% of the guests at the Sea to Sky Gondola don’t venture beyond the main area and manicured front country trails. Those trails are nice and will suit an outing very well, with most people being more than satisfied for a day trip.
BUT… if you’re the type who wants to venture a bit further, then it’s well worth a bit of extra effort to go up the backcountry trails to make a whole day (or longer) out of it.
There are two mountains within a short jaunt of the top of the Sea to Sky gondola: Mt. Habrich and Sky Pilot. Habrich is very similar to what you find on The Chief: big granite cliffs that point straight upward. Sky Pilot, on the other hand, has much more jagged rock and is a different landscape altogether. It’s pretty remarkable that these mountains are so different and coexist right next to one another. But that’s the amazing varied geology of Squamish. You get a lot in a relatively short amount of space.
Mt. Habrich
Al’s Habrich trail is a fantastic loop that is similar to the Chief, only much larger in scale. The loop to the subalpine meadows takes about 5-6 hours at an intermediate pace, but you can go much higher than that. The peak is another story altogether and we wouldn’t recommend that for a family adventure. But you can get a bit further up from the “Neverland Loop” which is well worth the extra effort for the views.
This is only one angle but there are many more worth seeing from high up on Habrich.
Sky Pilot Mountain
This hike is definitely a bit more technical, and one we don’t recommend taking young kids on. That said, we took our daughter here when she was about 10 months old. Smaller babies are actually easier since they aren’t mobile, but we didn’t make it to the alpine since that would be a bit too dangerous for our liking. But the views still made it worth it.
Allow yourself a few hours as the trail (once the logging road ends) is a bit steep. But once you get to the subalpine you get a fantastic subalpine environment to explore.
Bottles up!
Events and Activities
The other beauty of the Sea to Sky Gondola is the programming they have. It seems as though there are always fun organized events happening. One regular event worth going to with a baby is the parent and baby hike. This can be a great way to meet local parents (mostly moms) and have a casual walk around without much pressure to push it, yet still get some exercise. Those happen on Thursday mornings, but it’s best to check with them for sure.
We already mentioned it but it’s worth a second nod: in the summer months, Fridays are hoppin’ with live music. The legendary Hairfarmers usually play a few times a year, but those events are so popular they eventually stop letting people up. So make sure you get up early for that one if so.
Winter is also a great time to visit the Sea to Sky gondola. Not only do you get out of the rain at sea level to (usually) a snowy mountain scene, but you will also find some of the best easy access backcountry skiing available. The 2km road to Sky Pilot is groomed, making for some quick access to the vertical. It’s easy to do a half day here and still get your fill for powder with such an easy turnaround.
For the kids, there is a tubing hill that costs $5 (at the time of posting) and is actually pretty thrilling—it’s easy to pick up some speed. It’s not suited for smaller children but bigger kids and adults will definitely get their money’s worth.
For those who want some softer activity, there is always snowshoeing and you can rent snowshoes from the summit lodge.
More Great Stops on the Sea to Sky
The corridor is packed full of fun stops between Horseshoe Bay and Whistler. Right next door to the gondola is Shannon Falls, which is worth the quick stop, and there is even a trail right from the gondola parking lot to save you the mess of dealing people fighting over the limited spots.
For a fun, interactive app showcasing the best of the sea to sky corridor, check out the Sea to Sky Family Navigator. It’s totally free and our gift to families both local and from afar!
Helpful Links
Here are some links that will make your visit to the Sea to Sky gondola a bit easier:
It’s easy to write Whistler off as just another touristy money pit. The whole resort is designed to be a moneymaker, and tourism dollars is the only way they know how to do that. If you’ve never been here and just go by the whims of the industry, I wouldn’t blame you for it not being your cup of tea.
But then there’s the real Whistler—the one that drew people here in the first place, long before it was an international resort. That is the town that seeks authentic moments with friends and loved ones, and a kinship to nature. The good news is that it still exists. You just have to get out of the Village to see it.
As a Sea to Sky family, we are constantly in and out of Whistler (our daughter was conceived here!), but when we actually want to book a staycation, Nita Lake Lodge is at the top of our list.
Just 4km south of Whistler Village is Creekside, which was where the resort began. Back in the day, the train would deliver passengers to Whistler Creek, and people would trundle up to the gondola barn at the base of what would become the Dave Murray Downhill. From 1965-1981, this was the only way to access the mountain by a lift. Then, when the Village was built, all attention shifted northward and creekside became a mostly forgotten relic.
Creekside had a bit of a revitilization in the early 2000’s. One of the big improvements was a hotel on the shores of Nita Lake. It was larger than anything else in the area, and with a degree of class mostly reserved for larger hotels. They call it the Nita Lake Lodge, and over the years has become a hidden gem for people looking to get away from the hustle and bustle.
For a family with small children, we prefer the scene, in fact. Really anyone who prefers a laid-back, more local vibe to the touristy scene would enjoy Creekside.
The Nita Lake Lodge
The beauty of the Nita Lake Lodge is in the details. From the natural wood decor, to the earth-toned color motif, the design feels like a rustic lodge but with all the modern day amenities. We found it to be a perfect blend of quality construction that didn’t feel over-the-top.
In the room, the comfort was next level. We had a lakeview suite with a massive king-sized bed that had excellent comfort, and a private balcony overlooking Nita Lake. There is a small living room area with couches that allowed our family to feel close without being cramped.
The view from our room looking northward.
But perhaps the best part of the suite was the bathroom. More specifically, the remarkably large bathtub could fit us all in for a bath time that felt like our own private hot tub. Luckily we had great weather during our stay but if luck wasn’t on our side I would have had no problem wasting a stormy day away in the comfort of our suite.
Summer at Nita Lake Lodge
Summer is one of the best times to visit Whistler in general, but Nita Lake Lodge is extra special. The valley trail is right outside the back door, allowing for hours upon hours of biking around the valley. Mountain bike trails exist on both sides of the valley… you can take the creekside gondola up Whistler mountain for the bike park, or head to the west side trails for some classic enduro riding.
Alpha lake park is right next door, so you have beach days covered. Keep in mind the water is quite cold… but summer temps can be above 30 degrees celsius, so a cold dip can be very welcome. The playground is also one of the best, and features a grove of old-growth trees right out the back.
All in all, summer is an excellent time to visit Nita Lake Lodge and creekside in general.
This picture was taken in the spring, hence the jacket… but the view is the same!
The Pool and Sauna
The pool sits in the back of the hotel on ground level, which is an ideal location for reasons I’ll explain shortly. While the pool itself isn’t anything remarkable, it’s what is next to the pool that makes it a bit more of a treat.
The sauna is a relatively new addition that sits on the pool deck, enticing those who enjoy a good sweat with a poolside session. For those brave enough to make the 100-or-so meter trek to the lake, you can test your mettle with a cold dip right afterward, offering one of the easiest access saunas to a natural cold plunge in Whistler.
Nita Lake comes straight from glacier-fed Whistler Creek, so you can be sure that it’s colder than most. In the wintertime you can often find that someone has cut open a hole for those who really want to test their willpower by lowering past a sheet of ice. But those who know the benefits, will find this appealing, and a large majority of people might think this is crazy. I’m in the former group and appreciate the ambiance of nature to really exaggerate the extreme feeling of a cold plunge under ice.
A classic cedar barrel sauna next to the pool, with the glacier-fed Nita lake less than 100m away.
The Restaurants at Nita Lake Lodge
Nita Lake Lodge has a few different options for food, all on different price/quality scales. Inside the hotel you have The Cure lounge. It has a relaxed feel with some excellent options for pub-style food with a bit higher quality than most pubs in town. The burgers use local ingredients and are a standout in my opinion compared to much of the other pub fare in Whistler. We ate here the first night of our trip.
Despite the kids rowdiness, we were welcomed and given a nice corner table away from other guests, allowing us to be a little more at ease with them than usual for a restaurant.
Another option is Creekbread, a staple in Creekside for almost 15 years that was recently acquired by the Nita Lake Lodge. It’s only a block away from the hotel and always has a warm, welcoming vibe with the wood-fired pizza that ends up being one of the hottest seats in town. We preferred to order takeout and eat by the lake to avoid the lineups and crowded atmosphere. This was also to do others a favor to not deal with our loud and messy children.
But the signature restaurant at the Nita Lake Lodge is The Den, the upscale choice for more than just guests. The restaurant prioritizes local ingredients as well and the varied dishes suit a wide variety of palettes. I wouldn’t call myself a food critic so I won’t go into detail other than every one of us was happy with the amazing food and dessert, which is not an easy feat with our diverse tastes.
To Sum It All Up…
Staying at the Nita Lake Lodge is an ideal choice for families who prefer adventure over shopping, the quiet over the hustle and bustle, and a bit of luxury without the pretension. The staff is warm and welcoming to small kids, and the adults don’t get bored with the diverse menu and activities that surround the hotel.
With three lakes a short walk away, there is no shortage of things to do, and the village isn’t that far if you do want to go. But we love the feel in Creekside, it feels like our second home. So check the hotel out if you are looking for a bit more than your average accommodation, but don’t want (or need) the extras that often come with the price tag to match. We highly recommend getting some cozy indoor/outdoor travel slippers to enjoy while there. We will definitely be back!
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Whistler, BC is a little town with a massive reputation. Once the site of a quiet fishing lodge, the valley at the top of two watersheds is now an international tourist destination.
It’s easy to see why the vibe attracts so many. It’s close to an abundance of nature, it’s easy to navigate (even with micro-humans in tow), and visitors have their pick of world-class hotels and restaurants to suit any budget. But beyond the resort facade, there is a core community of people dedicating their lives to the pursuit of getting outside and exploring the wild.
As a 16-year local exploring the Sea to Sky corridor (and a visitor since I was a kid), I have been fortunate to experience the ins and outs of the area for most of my life. Now that we have two small children, we are rediscovering the valley in a whole new light.
Local Tip: Whistler has two different clocks. Before 10AM is a quiet mountain town with plenty of space to breathe. After 10 it’s an international resort with lineups and crowds. If you can beat the masses, you’ll be a step ahead for all the activities, no matter what season.
This Whistler family travel guide is packed with insider tips, family-tested activities, and flexible options for every season to help you plan the perfect trip.
Summer in Whistler is arguably even better than the winter!
Whistler With Kids: The Quick Version
Drive from Vancouver Airport (YVR)
~2.5 hrs from the terminal
Drive from Downtown Vancouver
~1.5 hrs from Burrard/Georgia
Best months with kids
Anytime, really. We love March-April for skiing, and September-October for less crowds.
Picking a good vacation isn’t easy, especially when you’re an active family looking for more than just a passive resort stay. We want to fully experience an area, get dirty, and build real memories. As a purpose-built resort municipality, Whistler makes this incredibly easy.
A Car-Free, Safe Village
The main village was designed in the early 80s as a pedestrian-only zone. When you are traveling with toddlers or kids, this means unparalleled safety. You can let the kids be a bit more free-range without constantly worrying about vehicle traffic.
Nature Everywhere You Look
Whistler sits in a temperate rainforest in the Coast Mountains. Being at the top of a mountain pass, numerous lakes take residence in the valley. Just in town, there are five lakes within a 10-15 minute bike ride of the village. You will find 800-year-old trees, incredible biodiversity, and fresh mountain air just steps from world-class amenities.
Activities for All Ages
There are things to do here for everyone from babies to grandparents (and great-grandparents, for that matter). Whistler has arts and cultural museums, golf courses, shopping, mountain biking, and one of the world’s best ski resorts. All of it is easily accessible from the village, either by a short bike ride or a few minutes by car.
Getting Here: The Sea to Sky Highway
Whistler sits roughly 2.5 hours north of Vancouver International Airport (YVR).
By Car
Driving from Vancouver to Whistler is easily one of the most beautiful stretches of road on the planet. The highway traverses the Coast Mountains along Howe Sound toward Squamish. From there, it’s roughly 40 minutes uphill, past Nch’Kay and Black Tusk mountains. You can easily rent a car from YVR or downtown Vancouver.
We’ve built the Sea to Sky Navigator app to make traveling the highway fun, breaking up the trip with cool stops all along the way. Check it out, it’s completely free!
Parking in Whistler
Whistler has ample parking. The challenge is finding free parking. The day lots 1-5 in the village offer 12 hour parking for a decent rate; last we checked it was $12. Hotels are significantly more, as is street parking or in the parks. Overcrowding is a thing so it’s best to take public transit or rent a bike if you can.
There is free parking in creekside at the parkade, however you can’t park overnight. Same with lots 6-8 on Glacier Drive on Blackcomb in the upper village.
By Bus & Ride Sharing
Skylynx is the most common transport option directly from YVR to Whistler. Epic Rides is a highly affordable option that departs from downtown Vancouver. You can also use Poparide, an app that helps drivers get some extra gas money while giving passengers affordable transportation.
How Many Days Do You Need in Whistler?
Several decades later, and we’re still finding fun spots to go in Whistler. So the answer is, as many days as you can possibly fit. You’ll want to come back. But we know that’s not realistic, so here’s a quick-hit itinerary if you have limited time.
Length of stay
What you can realistically do
One day
Village and Lost Lake
A weekend (2 nights)
Village, Peak 2 Peak, Lost Lake, Rainbow Park
Three to four nights
Village, Peak 2 Peak, Lost Lake, Rainbow Park, Creekside, Train Wreck
A week
Longer day trips to Pemberton, Squamish, and Callaghan Lake
Where to Stay In Whistler With Kids
Where
Area
Budget
Best for
Kitchen?
HI Whistler
Cheakamus Crossing
$
Biking families
Shared
Riverside Campground
North of Village
$–$$
RV, cabins, yurts
Yes
Nita Lake Lodge
Creekside
$$$
Quiet luxury, lakeside
Some units
Four Seasons
Upper Village
$$$$
Service, Lost Lake access
No
Smaller Budgets
HI Whistler: The most affordable hotel-style accommodation is booking a private family ensuite here. Located in Cheakamus Crossing (the 2010 Athlete’s Village), it is perfect for families who love mountain biking right out the front door.
Riverside Campground: Just north of the village, Riverside offers RV camping, cabins, and yurts. You are right next to the Scandinave Spa and the Lost Lake Trails, making it a fantastic basecamp.
Moderate to Luxury Budgets
Nita Lake Lodge: If you like luxury amenities but want to avoid the loud busyness of the main village, this Creekside hotel is our absolute favorite. The rooms are massive, the bathtubs are incredible, and the location right on the lake is unbeatable. Read our full family review of Nita Lake Lodge here!
Nita Lake Lodge feels like its own private escape.
Four Seasons Resort Whistler: It’s hard to go wrong here. Aside from top-notch room furnishings, the staff goes above and beyond to make kids feel welcome. It’s a short walk to Lost Lake park and the Chateau Whistler golf course.
Fairmont Chateau Whistler: As close as you can get to the slopes on Blackcomb without sleeping in the lifty shack. It’s pricey, but oh-so-luxurious, and the service is from genuine people who are just plain caring and nice.
Northern lights not available all the time.
Top Things to Do in Whistler with Kids (By Season)
Year-Round
Peak2Peak Gondola: The quintissential day activity. Go up one mountain, ride across a world record breaking span to the other, and go down the other one.
Whistler Village: It’s a glorified shopping mall in the mountains, but it’s still worth cruising around.
Winter Activities
Skiing and Snowboarding: Consistently ranked among the best ski resorts on the planet, the family learning zones on both mountains are world-class. It’s pricey, though, but you probably know that if you are coming here. Kids 3 and under are free, however. The Epic Pass is by far the best value if you’re going to do more than five days on the mountain.
Tube Park: Easily accessible from Blackcomb’s Excalibur gondola, the tube park offers varying runs of difficulty for all ages. The minimum age is 3 years and minimum height 36 inches.
Ice Skating:The Olympic Plaza in the village offers free outdoor skating in the winter with cheap rentals. Try to go mid-afternoon to avoid the evening crowds.
The views in winter are something else.
Spring & Fall Activities
The Valley Trail: Whistler’s paved trail network connects the entire town. It is perfect for family bike rides (this is where we rigorously tested our Strider Balance Bikes!). A number of rental shops can get you and your kids outfitted. We are fans of Whistler Eco Tours and Arbutus Routes.
Nature Walks: The forest comes alive when it rains. Check out the Train Wreck trail or Cheakamus Lake trail to see the old-growth trees and powerful river rapids.
The fall colours come alive in Whistler Village, thanks to some great intentional landscaping.
Summer Activities
Lost Lake Park: The warmest of the major lakes, featuring a large grassy park and beginner-friendly cross-country mountain bike trails. You’ll find flush toilets here and food trucks in the summer months as part of the Park Eats program.
Ziptrek Ecotours: Zip between Whistler and Blackcomb mountains through the old-growth canopy. For smaller kids, the TreeTrek keeps your feet on suspension bridges rather than ziplines. Minimum age is 6 for standard ziplines, or 10 for the massive Sasquatch.
River of Golden Dreams: Rent a canoe or hire a guide through Whistler Eco Tours to lazily float between Alta Lake and Green Lake. It’s a 2 hour journey, and you can book a tour with Whistler Eco Tours.
Whistler Mountain Bike Park. This is a crowd-pleaser, and worth a visit if you ride bikes. Don’t let the crazy stunts dissuade you, there are mellow trails that are still super fun and worth a gander.
Best Family-Friendly Hikes in Whistler
Whistler has more hiking trails than there is time in the day. Here is a rundown on some of our favorite hikes for families to enjoy the best of the valley. You can also check out our page for the Best Toddler-Friendly Hikes in the Sea-to-sky for more ideas.
In our opinion, this is the best hike for families in Whistler. It is a fairly gentle, out and back trail that takes you into an ancient forest, with trees that are over 800 years old. The trail winds up at Cheakamus Lake, a glacier-fed beauty that can be seen from the top of Whistler Mountain.
The road can get really bumpy (and dusty) in the summer with lots of traffic. Be sure to take it slow, and avoid if you have a low-clearance vehicle. It’s managable, but just take it easy if you don’t have a SUV or 4×4 to deal with the potholes.
Train Wreck Trail
The trail winds through a beautiful forest near the Cheakamus river, ending up at the site of an old train wreck. Since then, people have sprayed graffiti all over the train cars to give a unique look in the green forest by the river. Kids love it, making for some truly unique photo opportunities.
The suspension bridge can be a bit intimidating, so just be sure to have kids who are a bit uneasy with heights close by.
Whistler Interpretive Forest / Logger’s Lake
The big highlight we like here is the short 450m hike from the parking lot to Loggers Lake, an old volcanic crater that gets warmer than other lakes due to the basalt basin the lake sites in. There is also a can’t-miss suspension bridge that kids love!
The Rainy Day Plan
The travel agents might “forget” to tell you that Whistler is in a temperate rainforest. While that may turn some people off, it’s also why the place is so green and full of life. Lean into it, dress appropriately, and explore the forest when it soaks up all the water coming down from the sky.
But even that can get old after a few days. Here are some other activities to enjoy:
Whistler Library: Right in the heart of the village, it’s a beautiful space that is kid-friendly. In addition to books you’ll also find movies, a “library of things”, and computers.
Audain Art Museum: Younger kids might get bored here but older kids and adults will appreciate a bit of culture. The museum has rotating collecitons and First Nations art that is beyond impressive.
Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre: Learn about the First Peoples who have been here for over 10,000 years. This joint effort from the two nations whose land Whistler sits on is a fascinating glimpse into the cultures of two distinct nations, with their own languages, clothing, and customs.
Meadow Park Sports Centre: A pool and ice rink. Need we say more?
Escape! Whistler: Whistler’s own set of escape rooms that will challenge even the most crafty amongst the family.
The Best Playgrounds in Whistler
Olympic Plaza
The Olympic Plaza at the far north end of the village has a fantastic, natural-style playground that is open year-round. There are numerous shops and cafés nearby, so kids can play while parents sip coffee.
Alpha Lake Park
The playground at Alpha Lake Park offers a unique treehouse like structure, with real metal slides. It also has a small climbing wall, a large swingset, a great beach, and a dog park.
The awesome custom play structure at Alpha Lake Park
Where To Eat With the Family
El Furniture Warehouse: Known for its highly affordable food menu. It gets busy, so hit it at off-peak hours.
Pasta Lupino: A local Main Street favorite for decades. Filling, affordable, and kids love the spaghetti.
Splitz Grill: Whistler’s famous burger joint. We highly recommend saving room for the banana split(z).
Creekbread: One of the best family-friendly restaurants in the valley, serving wood-fired pizza with organic ingredients in Creekside. High chairs are prevalent as this is one of the most kid-friendly restaurants in Whistler. They don’t have a dedicated kids’ menu, but what kid doesn’t like a cheese pizza? Really, that’s all we need on a menu for our kids to be happy.
Day Trips from Whistler
Brandywine Falls
Brandywine Falls provincial park offers an easily accessible viewpoint of the waterfall, just a short 10 minute walk from the highway. In the winter months the waterfall can freeze up for a really spectacular display.
Callaghan Valley
The Callaghan is just 15 minutes south of Whistler and opens up a world of options. In the summer, it’s all about the lake. Callaghan Lake Provincial Park is a gem for camping, (small) boating, fishing, and hiking.
The Callaghan Lake road is genuinely rough, so smaller cars will have an issue with the trek. That said…. we’ve seen it all on this road. It depends on how much you like the undersides. But like Cheakamus Lake, it’s worth the trek.
Callaghan lake and valley from the far side.
What a Family Weekend in Whistler Actually Costs
It’s true that Whistler is on the expensive side, but in comparison to a resort int eh US or Europe, it’s pretty comparable. In the busy months, expect at least $200/night for accommodation, all the way up to $1000/night in a top hotel during prime time.
Activities will range anywhere from $150-300, and often give discounts for kids, but it’s totally kid-dependant.
So a healthy budget for a long weekend away is $1000-2000 for a family of four, given you aren’t counting every expense. You can definitely do it a bit cheaper, and for sure can spend a lot more. But if you can budget that, it’ll be a good time in the valley without feeling like you’re missing out.
Summer is just as busy as winter, if not more these days, but the shoulder seasons do offer deals both on accommodation in the restaurants. So if you can plan accordingly, there are definitely savings by going against the grain.
Free
Costs money
Valley Trail, lakes and beaches, playgrounds, Train Wreck, most hiking that isn’t on Whistler/Blackcomb
Anything to do with Whistler/Blackcomb, Ziptrek, Bungy Jumping, ATVs/Snowmobile, etc.
Bears, Weather & Staying Safe
Whistler is in a valley at the top of a pass in the Coast Range. It’s wild nature, marketed as a resort. There are real risks and hazards here, but it’s all manageable. The first big thing that people worry about is bears. They are here and have been here longer than people.
So you need to be smart about how you interact with bears. Always make noise when walking on trails (even the Valley Trail, you’ll see bear scat frequently along the way). When out picnicking, make sure you keep your foot contained, and never leave unattended. If you do, try to hang it up in a tree, away from other people, or lock it up in your car, if possible.
The weather can change in an instant, so always have an extra layer. Higher up on the mountain it can even snow in the summer, so be prepared for anything.
The cubs can be scared, but mama was not far away, snorting and giving a nice warning to keep clear.
Local Tips For Visiting Whistler
Beat the Crowds: The biggest local secret? Most tourists don’t go out before 10 AM. If you are out the door by 8 AM, you’ll have the trails and mountains largely to yourself.
Shoulder Season Deals: May-June and October-November offer huge savings on food and accommodation.
The Weather: We are in a temperate rainforest. There is no such thing as bad weather, just bad gear. Check out our Gear Reviews to ensure your family is packed properly!
Planning the whole Sea to Sky trip?
Get our free app to help you plan out all the adventures along the Sea to Sky highway — every stop between Horseshoe Bay and Pemberton, sorted for families.
Absolutely. Whistler was purpose-built as a pedestrian-friendly resort. Between the paved Valley Trail, the numerous playgrounds, and the easy access to nature, it is one of the most accessible outdoor destinations for families with kids of all ages.
What is the best month to visit Whistler with kids?
For summer activities, September is incredible—the lakes are still warm, the dirt is tacky for biking, and the summer crowds have gone home. For skiing, late January through February offers the most reliable snow conditions.
Do I need a car in Whistler?
No! If you stay near the Village or Creekside, you can easily navigate the town using the free local shuttle system, the paved Valley Trail, or simply walking.
How many days do you need in Whistler with kids?
As many as you can get! Realistically, you don’t want to do less than two days. But everyone has a limited schedule, so try a long weekend to get your bearings. If you’re a mountain biker, you can stay busy for a lifetime. After 16 years as a local and even longer as a mountain biker, I’m still finding trails and routes that I’ve never tried before! Then add Squamish and Pemberton, and you unlock another dimension altogether. Same goes for hiking.
Is Whistler expensive for a family?
No lie, it can be. But it can also be incredibly affordable. Accommodation is probably the biggest expense, so if you are into camping, there are countless options around the valley on crown land. Food can be pricey but if you purchase groceries in Squamish or Vancouver before getting here, it’s often significantly cheaper. As for activities, they can add up, or you can just enjoy nature, which is free.
What is there to do in Whistler when it rains?
There is plenty to do when it rains. Number 1 is get outside! It’s a rainforest and the forest comes alive. We’re fans of Cheakamus Lake but if you want to stay closer to town, check out the Emerald Forest. If you prefer to stay inside, the Library is great, as is the Meadow Park Sports Centre. Or for a fun family activity, check out Escape! Whistler, the local escape rooms.
Can you take a stroller on the Peak 2 Peak Gondola?
Yes, the Peak 2 Peak has plenty of space for strollers. It’s perfectly safe to bring a kid onboard.
Are there bears in Whistler?
Yes! There are black bears that live in Whistler, and have lived here long before humans made it a destination resort. We’re in their space, not the other way around. They are active from early spring until November-December. They will mostly keep their distance with two exceptions: They are attracted to garbage, which is why there are the bear-proof garbage bins everywhere. Also, a mom will defend her cubs, so if you see a set of cubs, don’t stick around, as cute as they may be. Otherwise, they will keep to themselves and leave people alone.
Come Back in Another Season
The beauty of Whistler is that it truly is a four-season place to play. Every time we go back, there is something unique about the landscape we can enjoy. Even if you’re not a hard-core skier, the snow and silence in the winter is worth a visit. The rainy season may scare some people off, but it’s a rainforest, and it’s remarkable when the forest comes alive. Don’t just visit during the busy season, it does get quiet here, and the restaurant deals during the slow season are worth it in themselves.
Feel free to get in touch with us if you have any questions, we love to share the magic of this place beyond the usual tourist haunts. Hopefully we’ll see you out there!
Playing games with your family can be one of life’s great pastimes.
And passing time in remote places in nature, many will argue, is the best of all pastimes. However, until now most games were relegated to a deck of cards, and maybe a portable chess board. If you’re bringing a hatchet or axe along, you can add in axe throwing. That was mostly it for family games for a long time.
Now Helinox has flipped that entirely with the release of four new games that pack up small and allow you to bring along for any type of trip, including long hikes with a backpack. The same company that revolutionized the camping chair is now taking another stab at leisure time, but now with a social and competitive focus.
We had a chance to test out their PLAY series while on a trip to Hawaii. While our kids aren’t big enough for all the games (it clearly states the age limit), there were a few that they really had some fun with. We will share more about that, below.
Might be too basic or too advanced for different kids
The PLAY series comes with four different options: HeliDisc, StringTrees, YutNori, and HeliDrop. Each game is unique, and comes in a different size.
StringTrees ($60 USD)is the smallest, lightest, and most packable of the lot. It’s basically a game like shuffleboard where you whizz a ring across a taut string that you tie between posts, trees, or any other freestanding vertical object. Scoring is simple – get as close to the end without going over.
HeliDrop ($80 USD) is a classic bean bag toss game, but with tiered levels, having the smallest hole being the most valuable.
HeliDisc ($100 USD) is a target game where you try to knock the other person’s target off with a flying disc. It sounds simple, but it is actually quite hard.
YutNori ($40 USD) is a classic Korean game that involves strategy and can be played on any surface.
All the games speak to different skills, but the common thread is they are best played in groups.
What We Like About Helinox PLAY
The games are easy to set up, and weigh next to nothing in your pack (although HeliDisc is rather bulky). This means you can take these games into some wild places. And for those traveling with small humans, this can mean hours of enjoyment and bonding.
The material is durable and built to last – just like Helinox’s other offerings in the camp furniture space. So we anticipate having these games in the pack for many years to come.
But remote camping isn’t the only use. We’ve taken these games to the park for a picnic, and packing them along isn’t any extra hassle due to the lack of space and weight it occupies in the bag/wagon.
Games for Little Ones
We found StringTrees to be the simplest of the games, and our two year old loves it. She doesn’t exactly play by the rules, but you’d be hard pressed to find a toddler that can stay within the lines at all times. That doesn’t matter, she loves it all the same.
The other game right up her alley is HeliDrop. This is the classic bean bag toss game, but with three levels. As you can guess, the smaller hole gains more points. While scorekeeping isn’t really on the agenda for her, she has enjoyed the coordination required to get it in the hole. She’s even started to take a couple steps backward to challenge herself even further.
Games For Bigger Ones
Two games weren’t really applicable to our small family, but would suit larger kids and adult groups much better.
HeliDisc is like a harder version of disc golf, where you have to hit an opposing target with a flying disc. It’s a lot tougher than it looks. It was the bulkiest of all the PLAY series, So it’s not really one to go backpacking with, but it also is the most challenging, meaning it has staying power.
Yut Nori is the other one, and it’s more of a board game to play on the picnic table. To be totally honest, we didn’t test this one because our kids are too small. But we can update here when we get word from others on how it was.
Who Should Get These Games?
These games are great for anyone who wants to make the most of the outdoor experience and minimize screen time. It allows for a challenge for people of all ages, not just kids. So really, anyone who values a bit of competition outside will like these games. Bonus points if you’re trekking in with a backpack!
So bottom line… these games suit a wide range of groups, not just families. We love the smaller ones and will use the other ones for other family group gatherings. You don’t need to get them all, but one of them will probably speak to you and your family the best.
You can purchase the PLAY series Here (non-affiliate link).
You can’t reinvent the wheel. But can you reinvent the chair?
Turns out you can, and on multiple occasions, 13 years apart. And in doing so, you can improve upon an already great product with a few simple innovations that make it that much better.
I’m talking about the new Chair One [re] from Helinox, a brand that has become synonymous with lightweight, packable outdoor gear. Chair one started it all in 2012 and now, in 2025, they finally have a version 2.0.
If anyone has tried the Chair One (or any of its many copycats of the past decade) you will know that it’s a step above in comfort and portability for a camping chair. It was so successful it basically set a new course for design. But is the new redesign worth the hype? Well, our family has been testing the chair for the past few months and I can say that the new features are more than simple bells and whistles. Read on to see what the changes are.
Weight: Capacity: 320 lb Seat Height: 28 in Materials: Recycled Polyester and aluminum Price: $129
Pros: More comfortable and durable than the original. Cons: A bit too heavy for the ultralight crowd. Side holes might prove to have more wear over time than the first design.
At first glance, the new chair looks pretty similar to the original. The shape is roughly the same and it uses roughly the same frame and seat design. But on closer look, it’s the subtle differences that add up and make this chair that much better. We will get into more detail further down.
The big distinguishing difference that I noticed right away is the seat height is 2.5 inches (or 30%) higher than the original Chair One. This is a good thing for people who are getting older (like the dad who is writing this now) or people who are tired after a long day at the office. The difference is subtle enough to not take away from a good quality sit, but noticeable enough to remark upon in a review.
Basically every component of the chair and what makes it unique got a big upgrade. One big comfort item that may be difficult to put your finger on why it’s so much more comfortable is that they have added a second tension line around the perimeter of the seat, meaning weight is distributed more evenly. This allows them to make some modifications in the fabric, like cutting out holes in the butt cheek area to provide a more custom fit.
Chair One [re] Vs The Original Chair One: A Comparison
Chair One
Chair One [re]
Price (USD)
$99
$119
Weight
1 lb 15 oz.
2 lb 7 oz.
Capacity
320 lb
350 lb
Seat Height
25.5 in
28 in
The differences are subtle, but end up being a major upgrade in comfort and durability.
You may or may not know that the Chair One is the original design of the camp chair renaissance that has occurred over the past decade. It’s a welcome innovation over the ever-prevalent fold up chairs that were awkaward to carry and left your lower back feeling disfigured. Those chairs never left, but with the new redesign that the Chair One spearheaded, camp chairs have a whole new level of portability and comfort.
Speaking of portability, that’s probably the standout feature of this design. It packs up small enough to fit in the water bottle compartment on the side of a daypack, and setup is quick and easy.
The big additions to the redesign are some of the subtle differences providing not-so-subtle results. One is the socket joints that attach the seat to the frame. That is probably the area of highest wear on our original Chair One, so it’s nice to see that they have addressed this issue with something more durable and long-lasting.
Another bonus is the hubs on the frame are reinforced, giving even more durability and quick assembly time, adding value to the investment over the long haul.
Helinox also is one of the industry leaders on more sustainable materials. All the materials used are either recycled or repurposed, making sure that less harm is done to the environment over the long run. The Polyester fabric will undoubtedly shed microplastics, but it’s durable enough to do so much slower than cheaper materials.
The side pocket is a much welcome addition, especially for families with small children needing constant snacks.
At 2.25 lbs, it weighs a tad more than the original which clocks in at just under 2 lbs. This 8 ounce difference is negligible to some, and a dealbreaker to others. But those people are probably going the super-ultralight route and opting for the Chair One Zero or another lightweight (albeit less comfortable) chair.
With the extra holes, the new seat design has the potential for more rips and tears and things to go wrong. I suppose it will depend on your kids, and
While we as parents in our 40’s enjoyed the extra seat height, it also provides a higher center of gravity over the Chair One. This can be troublesome if you have a kid like our 10 month old who loves to climb anything within reach. He learned pretty quickly how to tip the chair over, but has yet learned how not to. So we’ve made a habit of leaving the chair on its side if we’re not sitting on it to lower his level of temptation. We also have Helinox’s Beach Chair, which is a bit lower to the ground and safer for our creepy crawly.
Final Thoughts
The new Chair One [Re] is a significant upgrade. Fans of the Chair One (and Helinox products in general) probably won’t need this review to know that the chair will be well designed and made from quality materials. They’ve earned their reputation over the past decade as a leader in reliable portable camp furniture.
Is the redesign worth the extra 20% on the price tag? I’d say so due to several standout features such as the improved socket joints and extra line of tension. Those features alone will make the chair last much longer over time, thus makeing it a better investment in the long run.
If you have a Chair One now and are satisfied, you can probably wait until you need another. But if you’re buying out of necessity and can afford the extra $20, it’s worth it to have extra comfort and durability, and an improvement on a product that set a new trend on outdoor camping comfort.
What does it mean when someone tells you to “vote with your wallet”?
It’s an important phrase in this day and age, and yet I believe the power of voting with your wallet is far undervalued. Based on the way our system is set up, It’s one of the only ways that consumers can have a say in how society is shaped. The catch is, it needs the collective actions of many individuals for any meangful change to occur.
But, if done mindfully, we the people can enact a different idea of consumption altogether if we simply buy certain products more mindfully. And handwarmers just may be a prime example of that, as trivial as it sounds. But when you think about those who use single-use handwarmers regularly, the envioronmental costs add up.
Why Single-Use Handwarmers are Bad For The Environment
Love it or hate it, our economy is based on consumption. Many of the most successful corporations in the past 100+ years know this fact, and give us packaged food, toothpaste, and all kinds of other products meant to be discarded after consumed. This is a fact of our day and age and a result of the endless pursuit of profit. As such, the disposable hand warmer industry is actually big business: Current studies value the hand warmer industry at 1.45 billion, trending upward to be worth nearly 2.23 billion by 2033.
This would be all well and good if these were sustainable, but they’re not. Most use iron ore and are wrapped in plastic. For us, as a family trying to do our best to preserve this planet for the next generation, it’s a non-starter to have something you only use once — especially if you need to use it repeatedly. But thankfully, there is indeed another option.
Aurora Heat’s Solution: Reusable Fur Insulation
Aurora Heat sent us a sample test of their beaver-fur handwarmers to try out . And while the “heat” part of the name isn’t entirely accurate, there is some truth to it. The hands do, in fact, feel warmer after putting them in your glove or your pocket. But they don’t supply any heat other than reflect the heat you have in your own hands. So, a more accurate name might be insulators rather than warmers. However, if you look at the heat we supply within, the name can be understood a bit better.
That said, I don’t think you can find something more in sync with the circle of life than a pair of these. And that’s because these are made from only one material – beaver fur.
For those who don’t know (and we didn’t before learning it after reading up on it) beaver fur is not only one of the world’s best natural insulators, but it’s one of the most sustainable, as well. This might not be true everywhere, but these furs are harvested in the Mackenzie Valley in northern Canada under a program run by the government. It’s important to point out that beavers reproduce with litters, leaving more each generation if predators don’t take them out. Since human activity scares predators away, and beaver activity can severely impact how a watershed operates, there is a reasonable amount of culling that can take place without affecting the population.
While some people may lament this practice, the reality is that the environmental effects of beaver hunting are far less impactful than mining ore to use for one time. As long as the efforts are kept in check (and the GMVF fur program does so), then enough animals will replenish the ecosystem year after year.
Sustainable and soft, the beaver fur works as an incredible insulator.
Fur Hunting: A Time Honored Tradition
The fur trade in Canada goes back centuries for the settlers. In fact, it’s one of the primary reasons Canada was settled by Europeans from coast to coast to coast, due to the efforts of the Hudson’s Bay Company, almost 200 years before Canada became a nation. But when you speak with the First Nations who were in the area for thousands of years before that, it has been happening long before recorded history.
The fur trade remains integral to the cultural identity and economic well-being of many communities in the Mackenzie Valley. For Indigenous trappers, beaver fur harvesting is not only a source of income but also a practice deeply rooted in tradition. Programs like the GMVF support these communities by providing access to markets, ensuring fair compensation, and promoting the cultural heritage associated with trapping. By choosing products made from locally sourced beaver fur, consumers can support sustainable practices that benefit both the environment and the Indigenous communities of the NWT.
Advantages to the Aurora Heat Handwarmers
Aurora Heat works, but they don’t supply heat. They kept our hands warm, with the caveat that we had good gloves as well. But the time for the hands to feel warmth accelerated compared to putting on cold gloves. The same was true for in the pocket.
The big differentiator here is the soft feel of the fur. It is truly some of the softest material you will ever touch, and we’re confident enough to say that and stand by it. We did not receive any compensation for this review and hold our ethics very seriously when we recommend products, and we can say that, without a doubt, these are softer than any disposable or even reusable electronic handwarmers you will ever try.
Speaking of reusable hand warmers, most of these are battery operated, meaning two things: it will expire quicker in colder temps, just when you need it most. You also have to put the battery somewhere, adding bulk to the unit.
So both single-use and reusable, battery-operated hand warmers won’t be useful longer than a few hours, especially when it’s really cold out. I don’t know about you, but if I’m stuck out in the cold with some type of emergency situation and one of those is rendered useless, I’d be pretty bummed that I didn’t have one that didn’t require anything other than its own natural insulating properties.
It also worked to warm our baby’s forehead and kept the sun out of his eyes.
Disadvantages to Aurora Heat
The main thing that is hard to overlook is the price. At $80, It’s an investment with an upfront cost. But depending on how often you will use them, that investment pays off quickly, considering you get 24/7 warmth without needing to charge it or buy more.
Also, since it doesn’t actually provide any heat, it’s probably not the best to use in a situation where you are dealing with frostbite. For that it would be good to have another heat source. Surely it would help more than if you had nothing… but for emergencies it might be good to have something that actually emits heat onhand.
Final Thoughts
Aurora Heat is an investment in sustainability. As a business owned by an Indigenous woman, you are making a direct effect on the livelihoods of people up north who can find work sharing the abundant beaver furs with the world, and not have to rely on a job that involves resource extraction or any other destructive vocation that is prevalent up north.
So to tie it back to the original statement, purchasing Aurora Heat is voting for sustainability through your purchasing power. It’s not a “warmer” per se, but rather an insulator, but a darn good one, as a matter of fact. So, if you want to have a natural product from an Indigenous-owned small business from Canada’s North that will last for many years, this is a wise purchase.
Christmas is around the corner, and chances are that the gift ideas for the adventurous and/or outdoorsy guy in your life might be limited. This is for a couple reasons: One is that if he’s a gear snob he might already have their gear closet pretty dialed. Or, they are modest and humble and spend all their time working and doing things for their family that a Christmas list isn’t high on their priorities.
Whatever the reason is, fear not, as I have put together some of my favorite items for outdoorsy dads, and really just guys in general. I focus on dads because I’m hoping that’s what you’re searching to hit the algorithm, but also because dads in particular need a bit of extra attention sometimes. Most of us are just working hard behind the scenes doing what we can to provide for our families, and even if we aren’t making tons of money for the family, we are showing our love in other ways.
So, here is a list of Different items that should suit the dad in your life, based on the hundreds of items I’ve tested over the past couple years. I’ve broken it down to Stocking Stuffers, Apparel, and Footwear. Hopefully this list can help you show your dad, husband, son, friend, or coworker who happens to be a dad just how much you think they are doing a great job.
Stocking Stuffers for Outdoorsy Dads
Here are a list of smaller items that produce big results outside:
This might be a generalization, but I’ll say it anyway. Pumping up the air mattresses and sleeping pads is usually the dad’s chore in a family campout. Which is fine, and it’s gotta be done, but why not make that chore a bit faster? Exped’s MegaPump makes it all the more easy with a small electric jet pump. It charges by USB-C, and is able to inflate and deflate many times over before needing another charge. Of course, this depends on the size, but I was able to use it on Exped’s Megamat for at least five sessions of inflating and deflating on a single charge.
You don’t need an Exped mat either. The pump includes adapters to use for all different valves. It’s even small enough to take backpacking. It’ll be one of those innovations where it’ll be hard to imagine life before it.
Every outdoorsy dad should have a multi tool. They come in handy almost every day. What I like about the Victorinox Swiss Tool, from the same people who give you the Swiss Army Knife, is that it screams quality through and through. The stainless steel is of top quality, and the blades and tools provided all have real-world practical uses. Plus, the bowed design not only has a modern look, but it also adds to strength when using the pliers.
This item is quite unassuming, however will come in handy more and more, the more often you use it. It’s a simple mat intended for helping you change outside your car, or anywhere that the ground may not be suited for changing your clothes or shoes. It’s called the Mud Mat, and will change the way you approach the trailhead, parking lot, and anywhere else where a costume change is better suited out of the car. I use it all the time now and am surprised I didn’t have anything before this that served a similar purpose. It’s made from recycled materials and is waterproof, durable, and folds up nice and out of the way when not in use. For something so unassuming, the practicality will have whomever receives it be thanking you perhaps not initially, but certianly once they incorporate it into their routine.
Ski straps started out to tie skis together, but the uses for them are virtually unlimited. I always have a few in the bag as it allows me to bundle stuff together and add tension easily, and it buckles into place in a quick pull of the strap. Thanks to the small amount of elasticity, you can pull it tight and it’ll stay tight. Voile has been in the game for a long time so they have perfected their ski strap well. The aluminum buckle is definitely a bit more long-lasting than their plastic version. I’ve used these to help split injuries, Bundle stuff together, and much more. It really is as limited as your own imagination to what you can do with these. Plus, the price is right to where you can get a few of them. They last forever and really do come in handy far beyond tying skis together.
It’s pretty much impossible to avoid technology in this day and age. Love it or hate it, it’s hard to leave home without it. Some devices can be life saving on an adventure. Having a power bank onhand will extend the life of your devices enough to get an extra charge, whether that be in an emergency or simply to stay off the grid away from a power source just a bit longer. The 737 Power bank is small enough to go onto an airplane, falling just under the max limit in watt hours for what is acceptable. I can even charge my Macbook pro laptop, and your average smartphone will usually get 4-5 charges on it.
Here are a few options for good outerwear that isn’t necessarily technical, but looks and feels great. This is based on my experience, and is not scientific by any means, however I feel that I’ve tested a lot and can speak to the quality in these items quite well.
Jeans haven’t had huge innovations over the years, except for the fact that maybe they went from working class function to hipster style in less than 100 years. But Du/er has created a line of clothing that looks great, and performs well in the outdoors. Their Tech Fleece Denim is right up there for the most comfortable jeans i’ve ever worn, and they also perform well outside. The DWR coating keeps water off, although won’t protect you from a downpour. But the secret sauce is in the fleece underlayer. It provides warmth and comfort and is a joy to put on. The dash of spandex in it makes the pants stretch just enough to allow for some activity, as well. Bottom line is that these aren’t cheap, but well worth it in comfort and warmth which many dads will love.
There are tons of technical jackets out there, so let’s spare those for a second. The Axeman is just a simple heavy jacket that is comfortable to wear. I’m a fan of bulk when it comes to a winter jacket, and this one has a bit extra on it. It’s made from mostly polyester with just enough wool in it to have a more natural feel, yet won’t break the bank. It’s got a classic look yet still has some modern comfort like a zipper, or you can opt for just buttoning it up. It’s just a nice, cozy jacket to wear without looking pretentious. Sure it has some extra weight, but for a lot of us, feeling some weight on your shoulders in the winter months is a nice addition.
Belts always come in handy, but are often made with a more formal intent than for outdoor adventures. Arcade has made a stretch belt that has a wide array of good looks, but also is a big win in the function department. The stretchy material means you can move all around at your heart’s content without the belt holding back any movement. I also find the seatbelt-style buckle an easy way to get the belt on and off when outside. While the plastic in the buckel doesn’t scream elegance, it makes for using in the winter possible where metal buckles will become a frost magnet. I like the Protect Our Winters version as it has some nice mountain artwork thanks to artist Joseph Toney, as well as 10% of the sales going to support the POW organization’s effort to combat anti climate change legislation.
There are a million kinds of footwear out there, and I’ve tested literally hundreds of pairs of both casual and active footwear the past couple years. Here are some of my favorites, based on both fit and feel, as well as function.
A good winter boot will make adventures outside bearable in the months where people don’t want to do much outside. Even for those who do, it’s hard to find a boot that is nimble yet sturdy and warm, and not to mention truly waterproof. Oboz knocked it out of the park with the Bangtail Mid, an incredible piece of footwear that is great for hiking, snowshoeing, or simply cruising around anywhere in snow and bad weather. The high cuff lets you tromp around in the snow, and the Vibram Arctic Grip soles provide second-to-none protection. I could list all the features and sound like a marketing person, but the reality is that these are some of the most comfortable hiking boots I’ve worn in any season, and the fact that they are insulated with great traction just give so many options that it’s worth checking out.
Plus, Oboz is a B Corporation, meaning they go through a stringent selection process to make sure that they not only put sustainability at the forefront, but they treat their employees and suppliers well while also doing good with the profits they receive. All in all, it’s a great reason to invest in these boots which will make the winter months much more fun.
Slippers are great. They allow you to have comfort at home without getting all the disgusting crap that kids leave on the floor onto your feet. Wool is one of the gold standards of comfort, and Glerups makes a wool felt slipper that is right up there with the best of them when it comes to comfort. Where these shine is in the rubber sole, allowing you to take them outside and have a little jaunt around town if necessary. But the simplicity is definitely the genius of them, and they have become a go-to for at home wear but also has been out on errands just because, why not?
I’ve been a fan of Sanuk’s footwear long before reviewing gear for a living. When I got to sample their Puffy Chiller collection, I thought it was an interesting mix of both lightweight and soft, and seemed pretty unique. But when trying it on, my whole spirit lifted up. I don’t say this lightly, and it’s without hyperbole, but these are the most comfortable shoes I’ve tested. They aren’t high-peformance by any means, but they feel like walking and a cloud. They are lightweight, yet still warm. It’s like having a sleeping bag on your feet.
They will wear out if they are daily users, but for a nice jaunt around town or even to use around the house/cabin, they are excellent. Just be weary of keeping them close to the heater, as I found out when the sole delaminated. But that was my fault and I’m not using that as a strike against the shoe, more just as a caution so others don’t do it. They also have a low cut version as well for warmer climates, and a POW tribute as well, but the mid length I found to be a perfect for comfortable casual slip-on cold weather comfort.
Hopefully this page gave you a few ideas for what to share with your outdoorsy dad. I’m also happy to share more recommendations based on my Gear Reviews from other sites, including The Inertia and GearJunkie, and more will be coming to this site as we roll out more reviews for gear, and share some tips for traveling well with families and helping people leave a better mark on the planet. If you want to stay in touch, please contact us and help make the site better through collaboration.
Before having kids, I was a minimalist when it came to camping. Light, fast, and easy were my guiding principles. After having kids, that changed. One of the first items I got was the Kodiak Canvas 10×10 VX tent. And while it’s not light, setup is actually pretty fast and easy. Maintenance, though, isn’t what I’d call easy, and being canvas it definitely needs a bit more love than your average nylon tent to stay up to snuff. But if you take the steps, you’ll have an incredible shelter that will become cherished in the family for many adventures to come. Let’s break it down a bit further, below.
The first thing you have to know about a Kodiak Flex Bow tent is that it’s not light duty by any means. At 60 lbs, it’s not going to be attracting any of the ultralight crowd. But that’s a whole other market anyway. Those people probably aren’t bringing kids along, either, or if they do, their kids will end up swinging the other way when they are older and only want to go camping in RV’s. Heh, heh. Maybe not, but the thought of doing anything ultralight with children sounds like far too much planning than anyone I know with kids can handle.
Once you get the heaviness out of the way, you’ll also notice a lack of poles, although the poles it does come with are quite heavy-duty. If you have never used a flex-bow tent, you’re in for a treat. It really only takes one time to learn how to set it up, and from then on the setup process is remarkably fast. Basically, you set up the roof by putting it under tension using the heavy-duty rods, and add the side supports. Make sure it’s properly staked for the tension to work properly. But that’s it. You can realistically have the whole thing setup in less than 10 minutes, assuming the campsite is already clear.
Notable Features of the Kodiak Canvas Flex-Bow Tent
You can find the features by the name of the tent. The first one is in the material: canvas. Being made of waterproof duck canvas adds a heavy-duty element to the tent that you can’t find in nylon or any other synthetic material. Sure, it costs a pretty penny, but you will also find it incredibly rigid and supportive, no matter the weather happening outside. We have successfully used it in rainstorms where it rained over 1 inch in 12 hours, on top of dry playa desert surface, at Burning Man. If anyone heard of the infamous rains at the event in 2023, we were there, and the Kodiak kept us dry. The thick floor also lends to that, and the fact that it rises up to give a bit of a bathtub protection from water coming in was a huge advantage when the rain started filling in. We were safe, and would have been for another few inches of flooding.
The other part of the name that stands out is the flex bow. This is the main feature that gives the tent its shape and provides a solid support where the staked-out tent can spread out from. It’s an ingenius design and isn’t exclusive to Kodiak, but the use of their premium materials means it’ll be durable and long-lasting.
A tent like this makes car camping with kids a breeze.
Drawbacks to the Kodiak Canvas Tent
The weight was already mentioned, so it doesn’t need to be expanded upon. But it’s heavy. So car camping is the only realistic use for this tent, especially if you have kids in tow.
The other main drawback to the tent is the canvas material. It definitely needs a bit more TLC than your average synthetic material tent. If you pack the tent up wet, you’ll need to set it back up at home to fully dry out before packing it up, which could take up to a day… and may not happen if you’re in a wet climate such as the Pacific Northwest in winter. You’d need a heated shed or something for it to dry out properly. So it’s not for everyone, especially if you don’t want to deal with soggy gear at the end of a camping trip. But if you have the space to dry it out and don’t mind the step, it isn’t a huge deal to work with.
Also for a large tent you have a huge footprint to deal with, so unless you’re at a prepped campsite it will be extra work to prep. Not a big deal, but it’s definitely something to keep in mind.
The Utility Tent is a great option for an additional shelter.
Final Thoughts
Kodiak’s canvas flex-bow tent is a beast. But with the added weight and bulk comes a roomy and spacious shelter that you can stand up in, fit a queen sized mattress inside with room to spare, and enjoy protection from the elements. The VX version has massive windows that zip down for extra pretty views, as well as airflow. It’s not one tent to rule them all, but if you have an extended stay and want to camp in comfort, we found this to take the cake for convenience, durability, and great living space.
The Burn is an inhospitable place on a good day, and downright life-threatening on a bad one. Having been to four burns in the past, I thought it would be a great idea to bring our daughter there to celebrate her first birthday. My partner was into checking it out but we got a surprise a few weeks before heading to Black Rock City that changed everything.
She was pregnant.
Again.
Baby number two on the way, and we were planning a month-long road trip culminating in Black Rock City. We found out only days before leaving and my partner ended up somehow saying yes to continuing on.
For that (and many other reasons), I love her so much. She put up with it for the entire month and it only got worse. Our daughter’s birthday ended up being the marquee rainstorm, but more on that later.
I don’t care how young she was… She’s going to remember it.
It’s certainly not the way most people do Burning Man, and I wouldn’t recommend bringing kids if it’s your first burn. It’s such a sensory overload and test of survival skills that you need to at least know what to expect to be able to give your kids a comfortable existence.
For as inhospitable as the Black Rock desert is, nobody should risk that with their kids. In many ways it’s an ultimate test of one’s parenting skills, and the willpower to put them first amongst a sea of distraction and temptation. It certainly made for a much different burn than the other four times I’d been.
The Camp Setup
Ideally you have an RV, but that gets expensive really quick. So if you’re adventurous (and let’s face it, why else would you be spending your time reading a blog post on Excellent Family Adventurous if you didn’t identify so), you can do it in a tent.
One such family showed up in a Honda Accord and had a tiny nylon tent parked behind it, and they not only survived the week, but both dad and his daughter were beaming from what fun they had. And on the other end of the spectrum there were more than a few camps that looked like they had been doing it for a few years. So, Ideally, this is up to you.
What to Pack for Burning Man
You can have an entire post dedicated to what to pack for Burning Man if you have kids, and perhaps, someday, we will. But for now let’s just go through a few essentials:
Kodiak Tent
Kitchen Tent: Either a Kodiak utility tent (like we had) or a Costco Carport (which our neighbours had, and saved us all from boredom in the rainstorm)
Water Jug + 40 oz water bottles + water reservoir for your backpack
Potty: for the ladies, a kid’s potty was a lifesaver.
Folding table
Cooler
2-burner stove, pot, pan, knife,
propane
all kinds of food: Another blog post we could easily do someday
Sunscreen
Bike + attachment for kids
Sleep Schedule
With so much happening day and night, it’s hard to find a sleep routine that makes sense. We found ourselves letting our little one stay up a bit later than usual to take in the city lights and sounds, which led to sleeping in a bit more and longer afternoon naps. Everyone and every kid is different of course, but we found this to make the most sense instead of being up all day and sleeping all night… if you miss out on Burning Man at night you’re really missing a ton of what it’s all about.
The Kidsville Community
We camped in Kidsville, a dedicated section for burners under 18. It’s like a little mini burn inside the big burn. I was jealous of the kids who are regulars for having this be a staple of childhood. It would be paradise to an impressionable mind.
The village is sectioned off into quadrants based on age. Our little one was in the 0-5 age category and thus we were placed in the “dingo bait” quad. Most places around Black Rock City have incessant noise, and Dingo Bait was no different… although instead of techno beats we were kept up at night by incessant crying cascading from one camp to another.
The interactivity of the camps is what makes Black Rock City unique. “Radical Inclusion” is one of the hallmark principles for the citizens to abide by, and the camps people offer are a key example of this. Some had food on offer, others ice cream, and some were just a fun place to play in a giant pit of balls or stuffed animals. It really is one of the hallmark aspects of Burning Man that sets it apart from anything else.
Art
The art is unlike anything else in this world. People come from all over to erect big structures, play music, and make an otherwise inhospitable atmosphere beautiful. The best part of it all, is that it’s interactive. Nowhere do people just sit and observe. All of the art is (mostly) climbable and has an element that encourages people around to participate and co-create. It’s one of the best ways to get kids to feel a part of the process.
Deep Playa is where the larger-than-life art lives, and is worth the journey out there. But if packing up the kids for a jaunt into the open expanse is ovewhelming, fear not, for there are art cars that are happy to bring you along for the ride, and they themselves are works of art. They come in all shapes and sizes, and can fit a few people or dozens. Some are janky, others ornate… as diverse as the burners who make them.
A Giraffe moving sculpture comes to say hello at Kidsville.
Final Thoughts
Burning man truly is for everyone. It will push you to your limits and make you question why you came in more ways than you even knew possible.
Despite biblical rains, we experienced a new side of the community that took away the urge to explore the vastness and get down to neighbourhood vibes. Each year is different, and the lessons you learn will spill over into everyday life… if you let it.
So come with an open mind, an appetite for adventure, and a creative personality, and you’ll do just fine. Your kids will gain a whole new perspective, and I’m willing to bet that their grown ups will, too.
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