With the price of gas teetering around four dollars per gallon, it's not hard to see why people just are not travelling far this summer. When gas goes up in price, so does every thing else. But if you let that keep you home, you could be wasting a great chance to help your child explore the world outside Central New York. The Adirondack Park provides a great chance to get your kids into the outdoors with just a short trip. Here are a few reasons why you should consider taking your kids north this summer.
Simplicity. Instantly the first thing many people think of when they hear the name "Adirondack" is camping Camping is a fun way to slow down and simplify life. With over six million acres of barely developed land in the park, it's the perfect place in New York State to camp for a few days. Camping has so many benefits for a child that it's hard to list them all here. But consider a few days of "unplugged" family time the only reward that you need.
Exploration. Younger kids love to explore the world around them. There are over 2,000 trails to be explored in the Adirondacks. You and your child could explore a new trail every day for over five years and never have to take the same trail twice. While you are on those trails you could encounter new plants and animals that you won't find any where else in the state. Moose are just one example of an animal that you won't see crossing the street in Utica, NY for example. Just be sure to try your best to encounter such animals from a distance. Just saying.
Education. Exploring leads to discovery and discovery leads to learning. The Adirondack Park is full of things to discover. The park itself has a vast history dating back into the 1800's that kids and parents alike can learn about. For example, the park is not actually a park at all, but a forrest preserve. In addition to learning about the history of the park, kids can learn new skills as well. Most state-run parks within the Adirondack Park offer boat rentals. Some private run parks allow fishing. And of course camping offers it's own set of skills that your children may enjoy learning.
For more information on exactly what to do when you get to the Adirondacks, check out http://visitadirondacks.com/. There's a lot of useful information there to help guide your vacation planning. If you decide to keep your vacation or day trip within the State of New York, you can't go wrong with the Adirondack Park. Your wallet will thank you and so will your kids.
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