Family Adventure Vacations

Did you know that one of our country’s treasures is part of a disappearing act? Scientists are predicting that the last glacier in Glacier National Park will melt by 2030! Only open approximately 100 days a year, the time is ticking to visit this remote haven.

Lucky for us, there is still an opportunity to freeze time in Glacier on the Austin Lehman Montana Family Glacier National Park trip. Hotels will transform into living museums once you step inside. The “parketecture” of the lodges will take you back to a simpler time instantly. Unplug and enjoy the breathtaking beauty of a real vacation from days past.

From the rustic, quaint rooms of the McDonald Lodge after an antique red jammer bus ride up the iconic Going To The Sun Road, to the ultra-cushy Grouse Mountain Lodge, there will be plenty of memories to share around the dinner table long after you adventure is over.

There is just something special that happens when we disconnect – we really RE connect! It doesn’t get any better than relaxing on the shore of Two Medicine Lake, and truly leaving it all behind. The smiles and miles keep coming as we hike, bike and raft this International Peace Park.

Known as the ‘Crown of the Continent”, Glacier National Park is the only place in the lower 48 States to still see the original wildlife and predators that the first European settlers saw. As the weather continues to warm, and glaciers eventually melt, eco systems and wildlife will also be affected. Can’t you just imagine exploring the frontier and getting glimpses of the same beauty as our ancestors before us? The park also boasts one of the highest densities of grizzlies in the world, offering post card worthy pictures and legendary campfire stories if you are lucky enough to see to see one.

We hope you’ll take us up on our open invitation to join us for the adventure of your lifetime in Glacier National Park before its namesake is lost forever!

1.    Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the United States. Formed by a volcano that collapsed over 7,000 years ago, Crater Lake is almost 1,950 feet deep at its deepest point!  You’ll see the lake for the first time from the caldera rim.  As you stare into the stunningly blue waters, you’ll understand why this lake is world renowned as a scenic wonder.  

2.    Your kids can become Junior Rangers.  Sign your kids up on day one and help them complete various park-themed activities throughout your vacation.  At the end, they’ll be “sworn in” and become official Junior Rangers!

3.    Hiking, biking, and rafting, oh my!  Oregon’s natural beauty will be that much more enjoyable when you and your family are hiking around Crater Lake National Park, keeping an eye out for interesting flora and fauna, biking the Rogue-Umpqua Scenic Byway, in the shade of verdant old forests, or rafting down the Rogue River, experiencing mellow class I rapids to exciting (but safe) class IV rapids.  

4.    The Food.  Oregon is a foodie’s paradise (and a wine or beer lover’s paradise as well!) Delicious melt-in-your-mouth blue cheese from a local creamery, local game hen roasted with truffles, or fresh-caught pacific grouper. Add a glass of local Pinot Gris, or a pint of IPA from the closest microbrewery, and you’ve found the perfect way to unwind after a great day!

5.    Crater Lake National Park is ALA’s Preserve a Park for 2013.  That means, with each guest booked, we will donate $100 to the park and its historical association!

What is my funniest memory I can think of from an Austin-Lehman adventure? Well, from growing up in the guiding business, a list of my funniest recollections literally has no end. But for some reason when thinking back in time, a certain adventure that took place in the beautiful Black Hills a few years ago comes to mind.

If you think that Mount Rushmore is all that the wide open state of South Dakota has to offer, then think again! ALA’s South Dakota cycling tour features the not-so-famous Mickelson Trail, a 110 mile Rails to Trails project that begins in Deadwood ( a mini western Las Vegas) and ends in Edgemont, a sleepy town with 750 residents. Between these two towns lies a Ponderosa pine paradise, Custer State Park.

Custer State Park is home to wildlife big and small from the burly, brawny bison to the peeking, passive prairie dog. Somewhere in between these two mammals is the infamous begging burro, a donkey that is not native to the Black Hills. These animals are descendants from the herd of burros that once hauled visitors to the top of Harney Peak. Once the rides discontinued, the burros were released into Custer State Park where they have become a popular visitor attraction.

Driving up in our Austin-Lehman van, I saw these begging burros from a mile away. As our group happened to reside in the only vehicle on the road at that time, we slowly crept up to the herd of burros “waiting” for our van. As if guarding the road, our van was immediately surrounded by burros demanding food from our snack basket. Turning around to joke with the guests behind me, I felt a nudge on my arm. One of the burros had stuck its head through the open window! Not able to stop laughing, we patiently waited as the burros decided that today was not their day for scoring snacks. About 15 minutes later, once a few other cars had pulled up and the burros grew bored with our van, they stampeeded away on to the vehicles behind us and we were free to drive up the road.

Austin-Lehman vacations are all about creating memories with friends new and old, family, and loved ones. A memory as simple as “the attack of the begging burros” brings me back to a time of laughter and friendship that I will hold onto for years to come.

Where will you create your next memory?

Kasey Austin

Warm water beaches, volcanoes, jungles and amazing surf.  Costa Rica has become known as the adventures paradise and there is little mystery as to why.  With pristine beaches providing perfect lefts and rights on the Pacific Coast, and miles of crystal clear blue snorkeling waters on the Caribbean side, this Country is literally filled with adventure from coast to coast!  No matter what activity the adventurer in you is searching for, your Costa Rica Adventure Tour is sure to have it.  Austin-Lehman Adventures even upped the anti and recently just added a new Costa Rica Tour to the menu! 

Costa Rica Family adventure tour travels from the stunning and famous Arenal Volcano and rainforest and brings you along to Manuel Antonio, which offers nothing less then magnificent sights with its’ luxurious white sand beaches stretching straight up to the lush green rainforest’s edge.  Arenal Volcano is a great place to hike and see some of the playful wildlife that Costa Rica is known for.  From monkeys, and wild cats, to butterflies and tropical birds.  Enjoy nature’s playground as you walk through the treetops on the hanging bridges.  Once you get your fill of natures beauty you can dive into some of the natural hot springs, and allow yourself to truly unwind on your tropical vacation.  The natural springs are thought to have healing properties due to the different mineral compositions.  Even so just the feeling of relaxation with the lush green ambiance surrounding you is enough to help you unwind and enjoy a soak in the warm pools. 

The pace will speed up a bit as you arrive in Manuel Antonio.  A surf lesson is the perfect activity to get your heart pounding and try something new.  The beautiful beaches of Costa Rica offer surf breaks to please a beginner, a moderately skilled, or even a lifetime expert surfer.  The warm waters and nice weather provide a great experience to allow optimal surroundings to get you up and surfing in no time.  After you master the art of surfing, you can dive below the water and see what lies underneath the surface.  The white sand beaches of Manuel Antonio provide great viewing opportunities for snorkeling, one of the few locations on the Pacific side that allows such clarity.  Explore the forests edge by kayaking along the shoreline keeping an eye out for monkeys, sloths, iguanas, squirrels, and lizards. 

If you were looking for a different adventure then what Manuel Antonio provides you could also book a Costa Rica tour that travels from Arenal to Tortugero.  Still offering the beautiful jungles of Arenal and the relaxation of the springs, but switching gears a bit to voyage down a class III to class IV level river.  The Pacuare River is rated one of the top 10 rivers in the world to raft down, and what better time then now to test your abilities.  Afterwards you can slow down a bit and kayak the canals of Tortugero National Park and explore the wild as you search for monkeys, caimans, and crocodiles. Add a little more adrenalin pumping excitement as you repel down a waterfall and shoot through the air on a zip line.  An adventure tour designed for the kid in all of us, for thrills and adventure you have only ever dreamed of check out a Costa Rica Adventure Vacation from Arenal to Tortugero.

And now for the moment you have all been waiting for.  The reveal of a brand new, never been seen before, Costa Rica Austin-Lehman Adventure Tour releasing dates in 2013: We will be overing this tour: (3/17-23, 7/14-20, 12/15-21)!  From Osa Peninsula to The Savegre Cloud Forrest.  This tour has been added to experience some different sights and sounds that Costa Rica has to offer. This seven-day adventure takes you from coast to mountainous interior exploring the Sierpe River through the mangrove wetlands, to the jungles of Corcovado National Park.  This forest is named “one of the most biologically intense places on earth” by National Geographic.   Experience tapirs, jaguars, and scarlet macaws during the day and retreat to your relaxing and luxurious hand picked accommodations at night.   The activities and cuisines are just as amazing and magnificent as the rest of Austin-Lehman Adventures traditional vacations, so try your hand at something new visiting the private nature reserve in the Savegre Cloud Forrest and the exclusive Osa Peninsula only reached by boat. 

No matter which adventure tour you chose, Costa Rica is a guaranteed excitement filled excursion through a variety of different types of activities and locations.  Water, sand, jungle, and flight, you will not tire of the diversity that Costa Rica has to offer.  Book your Austin-Lehman Adventure today and see what new adventures nature has to offer. Check out some photos from our Costa Rica Adventure Travels on Pinterest. 

Your friendly Costa Rica surfer,

Patrick

This past July, my family- myself, my husband and our daughters ages 5 & 7, took our first family adventure vacation- the Montana Family Adventure.  To say it was life-changing really isn’t far off.  But beyond that, our terrific guides- Patrick, James and John- taught us quite a few things…  About Montana, about nature and about ourselves.

If you’re lost in the woods, you should start liken’ the lichen
Not that we were in any danger of going hungry (see below), Patrick gave us all a nature lesson the first day about lichen, an edible fungus that, though not the most tasty of substances, is filled with nutrients.  Just in case you’re lost in the woods without food.  Of course, he also tricked us with mountain goat poo, it was a friendly prank, which tasted surprisingly like carob. 

There are no poisonous snakes in western Montana
To say I don’t like snakes would be an understatement.  I am terrified of them.  So I was (very) nervous about hiking through the wilds of Yellowstone.  In fact, one of my first questions was about snakes.  Patrick immediately put my fears to rest when he told us that western Montana isn’t warm enough for poisonous snakes.  (Yea!)

Don’t run from a griz

                  “Get your kids and start walking slowly backward towards the vans,” Patrick said. 

We had stopped at a pullout- along with at least a dozen other people- due to a Grizzly sighting.  As we stood safely at the edge of the road, hoping for a glimpse, others were walking up and over the hill to get an “up close and personal” look.  And then Patrick saw one of the men come running back over the hill.

“I was sure we would see an attack,” Patrick told me later.  “You never run from a Griz, they will chase you.”  So, what should you do?  Apparently, you slowly back away, hoping the bear is bluffing.  If he does charge, curl in a ball and play dead.  (Yeah, I think my “flight” instinct would overrule that, too!)

There’s flat…  and then there’s “Montana flat”
We were prepared for most of our hikes.  But there were a couple that we were told were flat.  Of course, it was our guide John who told us that.  What we didn’t take into consideration was that John had climbed Mount Everest, so a somewhat challenging hike to us, was flat to him.  About half way through the week we knew to ask, “Is it really flat, or is it Montana flat?” meaning no really steep parts but still uphill.

Humans, though the most intelligent species on the planet, can be incredibly dumb
Not including the bear incident, we witnessed, first hand, the ignorance of people in the wild.  I was sure we would see a young man get gored by a buffalo.  Tip:  stay in your car when a herd is crossing the road.  We also saw entire families creeping way too close to Black Bear and quite a few adults walking within feet of a Bull Elk so they could get good photos with their iPhones.

The tales our guides shared put these to shame- and they didn’t end so well.  “People can do really stupid things here,”  James said.  “It’s like they think the animals are tame and the rangers let them out every day for the tourists to see.”

It is possible to be pampered at 12,000 feet when you’re covered in dust
When you’re covered head to toe in dust, some of which is turning to cakey mud as rivulets of sweat trickle down your body, it’s difficult to imagine feeling pampered.  And then your guides bring out silver trays of iced coffee.  Or they bring you wet wipes followed by sliced apples with caramel dipping sauce.  Not only do you feel pampered, but you are so thankful you didn’t have to carry it up yourself!

The Pied Piper is real
Though he wasn’t carrying pipes, Patrick managed to charm all the children on our tour.  Wherever he was, they wanted to be.  By mid-week the adults had termed him “the Pied Piper” as we knew that if our children weren’t with us, they would be near him.      

Sometimes you have to work hard to see magnificence
Sure, you can see amazing things when you stay on the beaten path.  But to see truly breathtaking sights, you need to work harder.  This was truly driven home to us after we scraped and clawed our way up the steep hill behind the Grand Prismatic.  Only 10% of visitors to Yellowstone see this view.  It was worth every bruise and scrape.

You’ll never go hungry.
Despite the increased amount of physical activity, you will never feel a hunger pang during your AL vacation.  Between the filling breakfasts, fabulous lunches, morning and afternoon snacks on the trail, “just in case” munchies in the vans, and local specialties for dinner each evening, hunger doesn’t stand a chance.

You can trust someone you just met with your kids in less than a week
At the beginning of our trip, we kept near the girls as we hiked.  By mid-week we kept them in our sights.  By the end of the week, as we were hiking through an area where bears had been sighted only the day before, our girls were separated- one in front of us and one behind- each so far away we couldn’t see or hear them.  As Doug and I walked along, we commented on the fact that we weren’t worried at all.  We knew that our youngest was at the front of the pack with John, while our eldest was tagging along at the end with Patrick.  And we knew that both were completely safe.

Our family so thoroughly enjoyed our Austin-Lehman vacation that we are hoping to do another one next summer!  We’re thinking the Yellowstone/ Tetons trip…  unfortunately it has no horseback riding- which is a “must” for my youngest, who fell in love with her four legged guide this year.

Sincerely,

Jody Halsted

Jody Halsted is a writer specializing in family travel.  You can follow her family’s adventures at FamilyRambling.com.

See Jody's photos from her Austin-Lehman Adventure: Montana Family Adventure Photos

A country known for delectable wines, mouthwatering cuisine, cultural depths, and romantic locations, France is a great place to experience your next adventure vacation.  Can’t leave the kids home alone? Perfect, bring your family on a France Normandy Family Trip with Austin Lehman Adventure. They will love the impressive sceneries, the beautiful views on their bike rides, and the exciting histories and visits to the battlefields.  Delicious meals to impress a toddler to a grandparent, no family member will leave this vacation disappointed.

The tourist town of St-Malo has been a tourist hot spot for years. St-Malo citadel, or walled city, is an attractive visitor location with cobblestone streets lined with shops, bars, hotels, and restaurants.  The modern harbor connects the citadel to the mainland making travel a bit more simple and stress free.  Your adventure upon two wheels during your adventure tour will lead you along Brittany to the battlefields of Normandy.  Travelling along the shoreline form St-Malo to Bayeux you will taste the flavors of the harbors, experience a piece of history as you pass through historic sites from WWII, and view ancient stone farmhouses and experience the striking landscapes.

St-Vaast is a beautiful and very special marina surrounded by stunning fishing boats and quaint views of the shorelines and fishermen landing and selling their catches.  The bulk of French oysters come from this location so it is a must try on the menu for dinner or lunch during your visit.  The sheltered location provides a beautiful, almost tropical vegetation creating a gorgeous backdrop for you to ride along and visit.  Retreat to the lush Normandy countryside; enjoy a glass of fine wine, and flavorful cheeses and caviar.

Continue your French Bike Tour to the town of Bayeux.   Visit the historic sites of the D-Day Beaches, guided tours of historical WWII sites, and visit the Bayeux Cathedral which towers over the entire town. Relive William the Conqueror’s conquest of England as you walk along the colorful 230-foot Bayeux Tapestry that retells the story scene by scene. 

Searching for an adventure that reaches beyond just amazing French food and beautiful landscapes.  Check out one of Austin Lehman Adventures newest France tour to Dordogne.  While this trip by no means will be lacking in mouthwatering savory cuisine, it is also an opportunity to step back through time and explore the Grotte Fond de Gaume, an ancient cave scattered with 15,000-year-old paintings of prehistoric bison, mammoths, and reindeer which once roamed the shores of the Dordogne during the last Ice Age.   With hundreds of caves open to the public to explore, as well as prehistoric paintings you can also marvel at rock formations, and explore beautiful underground taverns.

Check out all of Austin Lehman’s Brand new tours and book your family adventure vacation today!  See more photos of our France Adventure Trips on Pinterest.

Howdy Folks,

Cowboy Corey and Hurricane Carrie checking in from the Black Hills of South Dakota where we are getting our adventures in order for the upcoming Black Hills family vacations!  We were welcomed to the rolling hills with the thunderous tune of motorcycles, where over half a million riders flock every year for the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.  Carrie and I were so delighted by the scene that we took to the winding roads on a Harley, celebrating this extraordinary environment in true rally fashion.  We can’t wait to share our passion for this place with you all, from the bona fide western cities of Sturgis and Deadwood to the Presidential faces that Defined America carved into Mount Rushmore.

Above all, The George S. Mickelson Trail is the pinnacle experience of the Black Hills Trip; with 109 miles of trail meandering through prairies, past granite mountain views, heavily timbered forests, and ghostly deserted mining towns the experience is paramount.  The Burlington Northern Rail Line was abandoned in 1983 which passes through the heart of the Black Hills.  With the Support of Governor George S. Mickelson the rails were removed and a bike path was born in 1991.  The rails to trails project was completed in 1998, spanning 109 miles with more than 100 converted railroad bridges and four hard rock tunnels this trail is a must for anyone who enjoys adventure via pedal power.

Ride on,

Cowboy Corey and Hurricane Carrie

Travel the Romantic Roads of Germany

The Romantic Road of Germany was a route created in 1950, as a desperate attempt for Germany to rebuild their tourism. Original visitors were mainly families and friends of the American Soldiers who were based in Southern Germany.  This route, although a newer innovation, passes neatly through historical and medieval towns and points of interests, which has raised foreign interest and touristic appeal for over 62 years now.  The trail from Würzburg to Füssen is a must experience activity during your Europe Adventure Vacation.  What better way to explore this trek through time then upon two wheels, enjoying a relaxing ride through history as you breath in the fresh air and soak up the stories of time. 

Your Europe Bike Trip with Austin Lehman through the Romantic Road will begin in Nördlingen. This is the only remaining walled medieval town in Germany.  Less crowded then the other two major towns makes Nördlingen an appealing place to visit.  The interest around this city only begins with the fact that it is built in the crater of a meteorite with a tower created of the rock that originally formed the massive crater.  Here you can also explore crooked streets, a 14^th century wall, and retreat at the end of the day to your beautiful hotel with modern accommodations.  Linked to the historic wing of the monastery church, the NH Klösterle Nördlingen is located in the center of the old town on the Romantic Road and is the perfect location for a peaceful slumber.  

The next location on your adventure vacation itinerary will include a saunter through Dinkelsbühl, and a nice relaxing ride through pastures and fields of sunflowers to the town of Rothenburg.  Activities also include watching a falcon flight show at the Schillingsfürst Castle, and a nice lunch at the quaint café in front.  When you arrive in Rothenburg you will be in awe of the vibrant cliff-side gardens, amazing art, and fascinating museums.  Stroll through the city during your night tour to learn a bit more about the town, and retreat at the end of the evening to Hotel Markusturm.  A historical customs house back in 1264, Hotel Markusturm is an enchanting location in a medieval town. Eight centuries later, it has been transformed into a hotel for visitors from all over the world.

After leaving the large town of Rotherburg you will then visit another one of the largest towns at Bad Mergentheim.  With its’ days dated back to the Roman era, this spa resort town is a must see marvel when riding the Romantic Roads.  From stories of nights and rebellion to relaxing in 5-star resorts, you have never felt as good as you will in Bad Mergentheim. Next in the town of Wertheim you will pedal beneath a thick forest canopy along the meandering path of the Tauber River.  This medieval village captures the Viking spirit with its’ glassworks, Franconian wine, and history of castles and fortresses.

Your Austin Lehman Adventure will finish off your Europe Bike Trip in the town of Frankfurt.  This is the main metropolis and financial and trade city with some hustle and bustle to get your gears going after your peaceful and relaxing vacation.  Bask in the vastness of the skyscrapers, and find refuge in a local pub.  Explore the history of the city and visit the Kaiserdom.  You may even want to hang out a couple days after your tour to try some brauts and brews at Octoberfest!  A perfect finish to a perfect adventure vacation with Austin Lehman Adventures. 

Check out more pictures from our Romantic Road Bike Tour through Germany on our Pinterest account by clicking here-- Romantic Road Bike Tour

Glorious red sandstone arches, vast views of cloudless skies, and moments to create memories with your family.  These are all perks of enjoying a Southwestern US Adventure Vacation with Austin-Lehman Adventures.   You will be visiting the states of Colorado and Utah viewing the grand monuments of the Wild West.  With fascinating histories and beautiful natural sculptures this family vacation will be like none other.  Also with experienced guides, perfected tour packages, and fascinating destinations, Austin-Lehman Adventures has left very little up to chance.  Take away the guesswork and let Austin-Lehman Adventures plan your vacation today.  

Your Moab Family Adventure Vacation starts in Colorado National Monument, reaching 2000 feet above the valley, home of the Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon, and Arches.  You will be able to experience the vastness of this National Monument as you raft down the Colorado River to see the sheer cliff walls, dessert plants, and abundant wildlife.  Your day starts of with a delicious breakfast at Moab’s Jail House Café, boasting the best breakfast in town!  

Afterwards you will experience Moab and why it has been declared an American biking mecca.  Astounding cliff walls, and endless views of spectacular landscapes, create a biker’s paradise to explore the views from the seemingly endless mountaintops.  The trails and loops provide endless hours of adventure as you experience the floating feeling of Moab.  To top it all off, you also get a 14-mile downhill rush along the mesa to experience the sheer heights first hand.

Arches National Park and it’s erosion over millions of years have provided some of the most awesome arches, incredible sandstone towers, and eroded monoliths.  Your visit to Delicate Arch during your Moab Adventure is the perfect photo opportunity to capture the La Sal Mountain Range and all of its glory.  Just when you feel like you have gotten enough dessert experience you can cool off again in Mary Jane Canyon. 

No adventure is quite complete in a dessert paradise like this without some off-roading by Hummer Jeep.  You will explore Slick Rock over petrified sand dunes, as the wheels of the jeep grip to the sandpaper like surfaces of the dunes.  Unwind at the end of the day with a relaxing deep tissue massage, and a feast of finger-licking fares before retreating to your comfortable bed for hours of peaceful slumber. 

At the end of each night, during your Southwestern U.S. Adventure Vacation, you will retreat to Red Cliffs Lodge, with a rugged western feel, located right along the Colorado River.  This stunning location has even been filmed in many classic movies including the John Wayne classic, Rio Grande.  Voted “Best In State” award for hotels in Utah for the year of 2012, as well as past years, this is a must experience resting location after a full day of adventure.   

Also check out some more photos on our Pinterest account at Southwest U.S. Family Adventure Arches to Moab

Your friendly Southwest lover,

Patrick

On all the Austin-Lehman trips that I have led, I encounter a multitude of questions; from the size of the park, to what time are the animals released from their cage (however, this one is not often asked). But without fail one question that is always brought up is, "What can I do around Bozeman before or after my awesome vacation?" My recommendation would first include rephrasing the question to what can't I do around this town!?

    If you consider yourself a history buff, or are seeking the inner child in you head to the Museum of the Rockies. You are instantly surrounded by the dinosaurs that walked in the same streets as you are now! Also, there are a ton of other historical artifacts from the pioneer times as well! While moseying around town, simply walk down main street for a few hours. There are great stores for some last minute gear purchases or finally get that kayak to start your hobby (inspired from your Austin-Lehman adventure)! Also on Main you can grab some of the best food Montana has to offer including the famed, Ted's Montana Grill for a hearty cut of bison steak raised on one of Mr. Turner's farms! Also those looking to stay out a little later can indulge in the nightlife of Bozeman that more often than not will include live music and dancing!
     If you would like to push yourself a little bit more towards the outdoorsy lifestyle of the area your options only continue to grow! A short drive to Big Sky resort can have you flying downhill on a mountain bike or Zipping through the sky on their newly installed zip line systems. Also a quick call to the office or one of your guides can get a connection to a fly fishing guide that has newly been added to the Austin-Lehman family! All the local shops also rent everything from bikes to paddle boards! So turn an afternoon into an adventure taking some rented or purchased gear into Hyalite Canyon just outside of town. Paddle the reservoir or bike the seemingly endless trails! In short, Bozeman is an excellent town to start or finish off your Yellowstone National Park Vacation or Montana family adventure offering fun for all ages and interests! Myself and the rest of the guide staff all look forward to meeting you future adventurers!

Cheers,

Patrick McGarry

Greetings travelers I am Josh Fried and I live in Los Angeles, California. I love travelling and have been doing it ever since i was a little pipsqueak. I am now 15 years old and have been all around the country (not the world....yet). I thought traveling was just an activity where you visit a destination and meet people and experience attractions. For me that all changed last year! About a year ago I went on a trip with Austin-Lehman Adventures, we had discovered them several years before but had never had the time to go on one. My Dad and I ended up going on their Canadian Rockies family adventure. Saying we both had the time of our life is an understatement, we had the best time in the world! The area was beautiful, the locals were friendly and best of all we had three amazing guides that knew the area better then the back of their hand. Overall it was the best vacation I've ever had. A few months ago we were planning our summer and my parents asked me and my brother what we wanted to do. The first thing that came to my mind was “how about an Austin-Lehman trip”. My dad said “you should decide which one you want to do” so I was flipping through the catalog and I stumbled across their cycling tour of the Black Hills in South Dakota. It looked so much fun! Biking through the Black Hills, seeing Mount Rushmore, It sounded so much fun. I don't depart for another three weeks, yet I'm am jumping out of my skin in excitement. I love biking and have heard grand stories of the Mickelson Trail from friends, I am also a big history buff and can't wait to see landmarks like Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse. I can't wait for my next adventure with Austin-Lehman.

See you on the trails!

Today I wanted to talk about and share one of my favorite towns in the world, Jackson, Wyoming. With a population just under 10,000 and located just outside Grand Teton National it is prime time for adventurers. I was lucky enough to guide our Wyoming Family- Yellowstone/Teton adventure this past week, which starts and ends in the beautiful town of Jackson.

Some History on Jackson:
As part of the Hayden Expedition of 1871 and 1872, William Henry Jackson took the first photos of the Tetons and Yellowstone Park.  His photos, along with paintings by Tom Moran, convinced Congress to protect Yellowstone National Park. Yellowstone National Park became the first National Park in 1872.  Grand Teton National Park was created in 1920 and greatly expanded in 1950 by the generous efforts of John D. Rockefeller, who purchased and then donated over 30,000 acres. The Town of Jackson was named in 1894,  some of the early buildings remain and can be found throughout the area of the Town Square.  

What to do in Jackson:
1) Bike Antelope Flats, it is a great and easy ride! Enjoy the scenery with the Tetons in view the whole bike ride and make sure you stop by the T. A. Moulton Barn. Often referred to as the most photographed barn in America, I think the backdrop of the Tetons soaring up might have something to do with that.

2) Cable car ride, take the tram to the top of Jackson Hole Resort for some amazing views!

3) Look Up! If you head to Jackson and don't take the time to look at the stars over the Tetons, then you are missing out.

4) Yee Haw! Head on down to the Jackson Rodeo, experience a real wild west rodeo!

5) Jenny Lake, just outside Jackson sits this beautiful lake. The Jenny Lake Loop Road is about 5 miles long and can be easily accessed from the Teton Loop Road. There is also a 6.5 mile hike around the lake, which is a pretty flat and easy trail.

One more thing, I'm sure you'll be hungry after all these activities... I recommend the Trio for dinner, they are an American Bistro with delicious cuisine. Save some room for dessert, the s'more pie is amazing! 

That's it, 5 fun things to do in Jackson! Now all you need to do is go experience it for yourself! Austin-Lehman offers family and adult trips that show you the best of Grand Teton and Yellostone National Park. Check out our Wyoming Vacations.

Your friendly adventurer,

Jonathan

As the end of summer is quickly approaching, what better time then now to plan a great American journey through South Dakota.  South Dakota is home to two National Parks, laden with pine, spruce, birch and aspen.  Great hiking and biking trails flood the prairie lands with celebrated destinations including the Crazy Horse Monument, Wind Cave National Park, Deadwood, the Mickelson Trail, and of course the worlds greatest mountain carving, Mount Rushmore National Memorial.   South Dakota Family Vacations are the perfect adventures for kids of all ages, families and grandparents alike.  With astonishing landscapes and historical landmarks, all generations can appreciate this boundless adventure. 

Mount Rushmore

Gutzon Borglum sculpted Mount Rushmore National Monument in 1941, taking 14 years and a mere million dollars to complete it. Mount Rushmore is now an image that has been captured in countless movies, pictured in tons of books, and snapped a million times over in photos.  The 60-foot high faces located 500 feet above the ground are not fully captured on film or paper. Each head stands a remarkable six stories tall.  Standing in front of the Shrine of Democracy you can see why it has joined the Statue of Liberty and the Stars and Stripes as some of America’s most inspiring symbols.  What better way to learn a bit about America’s history then to pay a visit to Washington, Jefferson, Roosevelt and Lincoln during your next South Dakota Vacation. 

Old West Town of Deadwood

Take a stroll through history while peddling on two wheels through the antique towns of South Dakota.  Pedal the back roads through a sea of open prairies to the National Historic Landmark: the town of Deadwood. With constant restoration, Deadwood is being transformed back into the frontier town that once attracted legends and legions in search of their fortunes.  Come and leave your mark with the famous, or taint the town as the infamous Wild Bill Hickok, Calamity Jane and Poker Alice. 

The Mickelson Trail

Continue your South Dakota vacation as you ride through the meandering hills, rock tunnels, and railroad bridges that make the Mickelson Trail the perfect adventure for all ages. Roll along with hikers and horseback riders where the steps of historical figures once roamed.  The rolling hills and easy slopes make this an enjoyable ride with views of spruce and ponderosa pine forests. You can turn in at the end of the night in your comfortable Blue Bell Lodge offering mouthwatering home cooking and a night relaxing by the campfire. 

Wind Cave National Park

As one of the early nationally protected parks, and the first one that protected a cave, Wind Cave National Park provides an underground adventure as it winds its way under the prairies located above.   Noted as one of the world’s longest caves, and named for barometric winds at the caves entrance, this adventure provides a labyrinth of underground passageways just waiting to be explored.   After a long day of discovering, indulge at Red Rock River Resort and Spa with a hot stone massage and a delectable meal. 

Your next South Dakota Family Vacation will include all the great aspects of a family vacation rolled into one bundle.  From participation in some Wild West adventures, to learning fascinating facts about American history, you will be sure to learn new things on this adventure. Observing underground natural artworks, to viewing nature at its best on the aptly named wild life loop.  With delicious foods and comforting accommodations you will be sure to get your fill of exploration on your trip to historical and adventure filled South Dakota.

Visit our photo gallery of South Dakota Family Vacations on Pinterest

Your Friendly Travel Experts,

Austin-Lehman Adventures

When Talking about European Vacations my head immediately goes to Germany. Not only did my family originate there, which gives it special draw for me, but I feel most at home when I am there! Austin-Lehman offers to cycling tours that take you through the heart of Germany, both follow magnificent rivers, making the cycling easy and enjoyable, the weather idyllic, and the scenery breathtaking!

The first is Germany: Mosel Valley. This is one of our easiest biking tours in Europe, making it perfect for families! Journey along the sparkling waters of the Mosel River as you relax in Germany's abundant wine growing region. Pedaling through the vine covered hills you will follow paths that lead to grand castles, lively market towns, and unknown wine village gems. Discover Germany's fascinating Roman past, taste new wines, and marvel in serene pleasure at the Mosel's timeless charm, oh, and don’t forget the gelato!

The second trip, Germany: Romantic Roads is a little more challenging. Forget ancient folklore as you saddle up for an enchanting visit to Germany's Rhine River as here you will see it all come to life!  One after another you will discover some of Germany’s most delightful towns. Enjoy quiet country roads and bicycle paths, visit wonderful castles and churches and meet the charming people who make this region feel like home.

Austin-Lehman Adventures prides itself on first class customer service, local guides and amazing adventures on all our cycling tours. We leave no stone unturned in our quest to make your vacation one you will never forget. Our motto is "the hardest part is going home" and we strive every day to live up to it! So if you are looking for the best – on all levels, the good news is you’ve arrived!

I hope this entices you to join us on a German excursion this season; there really is no place like it!

Your Friendly Travel Expert,

Mindy (Vanderhoof) Teini

The summer season is upon us, and what better way to pass the time then to embark on a trek though the wonderland provided by beautiful Mother Nature. While you could venture out to hike Patagonia in Chile, or retrace the ancient path of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, you don’t even have to venture out of the United States to experience breathtaking beauty. The United States is a hiker’s playground from the sheer massive beauty of the Grand Canyon in Arizona, to the ancient forests of Sequoias at Yosemite National Park in California, or even travel back in time to the great Wild West to the Black Hills of South Dakota. For your summer travels why not take an adventure vacation in your own back yard and experience the awe inspiring sights that United States has to offer. 

Journey to the Rocky Mountain Range in Montana

To explore the world of hiking, one must venture out to the Rocky Mountains of Montana. The beautiful state of Montana is a perfect representation of untamed, natural beauty, and is simply stunning in its vast mountain ranges. Experience wildlife from grizzlies and wolves to bison and bears. Explore nature from their point of view and experience the geological wonders that bring amazing life and color to its National Parks. Experience unique adventures from roping and saddling a horse, to watching good Old Faithful erupt on cue. Hike with the family, roast s’mores, and retell old campfire stories that you grew up on. Explore Yellowstone’s countless geothermal features including Fountain Paint Pots and the Morning Glory Pool, and take a dip in the Boling River.

Visit Zion National Park in Utah

If the Wild West is not quite your style, maybe you would like to explore Zion National Park in Utah. Ranked one of America’s best adventures by National Geographic, these views will take your breath away as you hike past waterfalls, natural springs and hanging gardens. Zion has one of the most diverse groupings of plants in Utah, with over 900 species for you to experience. You can soak up the colorful hues of red, orange and amber during the daylight hours, and at night be surprised by the amazing clarity in the night sky. Kick back and relax as you enjoy the bright star formations in the skies, as you have probably never observed them before.

Visiting The Grand Canyon in Arizona

Looking for a hiking location with a little piece of paradise awaiting you at the finish line? Havasupai is a hidden gem amongst the vast ranges of the Grand Canyon in Arizona. Accessible only by foot this is a beautiful place to explore and bask in the natural rich pools at the base of a thundering 100-ft falls. After a fairly difficult hike to the falls you will feel like you are imagining this oasis as its beauty in the arid space of Arizona doesn’t seem fit for such crystal clear waters. This Grand Canyon Vacation is also equipped with a visit to an old galena mine, hunt for fossils, a visit to a natural mineral rich whirl pool, and a stunning trek en route to Beaver falls.

  
Trekking Wyoming’s Yellowstone and Teton National Parks

You cannot possibly discuss the amazing hiking in the United States without mentioning Yellowstone and Teton National Parks. Yellowstone was declared the world’s first national park in 1872, proving that even then, people realized this beautiful gem needed to be preserved.  Take in the neon blue, 300-foot wide Grand Prismatic Spring, the largest of hot springs in the entire U.S. and the third largest in the world.  You can also experience an adventure packed whitewater-rafting excursion down the scenic Snake Water Canyon.  From hiking, to biking, to kayaking, rafting, and rodeos, Wyoming’s Yellowstone National Park Vacation and Teton National Park are fantastic locations to explore some of nature’s finest views of the great outdoors.  

5 Great Items to Pack

There is no better time than now to explore the wonders of the world located in our own National Parks. Take your family to see how beautiful and diverse this country is, and how many different adventures are just waiting to be experienced. The possibilities are endless from the Rocky Mountains of Montana and Wyoming to the red rocks of Utah, New Mexico and Arizona in the Southwest to the Coastal breezes of Alaska, California and Washington. Contact Austin Lehman Adventures as your trusted Adventure Travel Company to book a hiking tour for your next vacation.

Check out some other great photos of Domestic hiking adventures on our Pinterest

Your Friendly Travel Experts,

Austin-Lehman Adventures

Any one who has traveled with an adventure travel company will tell you it was their guide(s) who made their adventure vacation. When it comes to our "Ambassadors" in the field its no surprise that Austin-Lehman guide team Nikki & Eric Keely are the cream of the crop!.

Both Nikki & Eric grew up in the Alleghany Mountain region of Northwest Pennsylvania. But, the didnt actually meet until six years ago in North Carolina. When they aren't guiding guests through the wonders of our National Parks they are out having their own adventures. Both are passionate about life, laughter, family, meeting new people, music and sports.

Having been on many wonderful adventure vacations with Austin-Lehman I for one, know that they could take me anywhere, even camping in my back yard and it would be an exceptional advednture!

Your Friendly Adventure Travel Gal,

Carol Austin

Do you ever have one of those days when you look out the window, taking a break from your computer, only to let your mind wander off to some faraway place? Well, that just happened to me (shh, don’t tell the boss!), and I traveled back to the Mosel River Valley of Germany, one of the most beautiful destinations on the planet!

The main memory that floated into my mind when drifting back to my Mosel Valley trip were the long stretches of flat bike paths connecting quaint German towns interspersed along the calmly flowing Mosel River. (Did I mention that the wind was at my back the whole way too?!) I picture myself lazily pedaling along miles of paths amongst endless, terraced grape vine plots, stopping in each town along the way to snack on Pommes Frites (French fries) with mayo (a very popular appetizer in Germany) and taking a few photographs of the locals and unique architecture.

 But oh, there is so much more for the biker buff out there, who wants just a little more than the flat valley floor. Remember when I mentioned “terraced” hills? Your guides provide you with any number of extensions each day that include heart-pumping hill action, breathtaking vistas extending as far as the eye can see, and winding down hills taking you back to the main Mosel River paths. If you want variety in the slope of your bike path, Germany is the ultimate European Vacation!

To sum it all up, Germany to me is the absolute perfect biking destination for not only adults but families too! There is complete variety in the grade of the bike paths and road extensions so you can choose the difficulty of your vacation. Germany bike tours are an Austin-Lehman specialty and when you take me up on my suggestion of cycling around this beautiful European country, don’t forget to take in the beauty of the river valley, sip the variety of German wines, and eat a few Pommes Frites for me!

See you on your next adventure!

Kasey Austin