South Dakota

A day in the life … well let me see.  Let’s start with a bit of history of who I am.  I am a Bison but a lot of people think of me as a Buffalo.  True buffaloes are my relatives but they live in Africa and Asia, the cape buffalo and water buffalo.  Only North American buffaloes are bison and two of the largest herds of bison live in Yellowstone National Park and in Canada’s Wood Buffalo National Park.  Below is a photo of me with my Mom when I was first born in Yellowstone National Park a few years back.  Am I not adorable!!

Figure 1:  Photo courtesy of Peak Photography of Montana

Anyway, back to my day.  We are a social bunch so you will typically find us in herds or groups and spend most of our day grazing.  We are the largest land animal in North America and therefore need a lot of food for energy.  We love to graze on grasses, herbs, shrubs and twigs for an hour or two and then we rest and "chew our cud" which is basically regurgitating what I have already eaten once.  I have 4 stomachs so I make sure that I get every nutrient that I can from my food before it moves along.  We are constantly eating and throughout the day can move 10 – 15 miles depending on how good the grazing area is.  If we are lucky we find a great spot and stay for a few days.

A couple of times a day I visit the local stream or pond for a drink of water, run and play with my friends, take several rests and occasionally take a dust bath which is my natural insect repellant! 

Since I live in Yellowstone National Park, I have a lot of visitors that want to view me and take my photo. I love to pose for photos but always remember that I like my space and to stay at least 25 yards away or more.  I may be big but I am agile and can run more than 30 miles per hour and pivot quickly!!  So please take photos but give me my space and stay a safe distance away.

A lot of people are curious about how our species survive what can sometimes be a brutal winter.  Well our thick, shaggy coat is so well insulated and we can have up to 2 inches of fat that snow can settle on our back without melting!  It can also help to keep us warm similar to how a blanket would.  We use our strong head and hooves in the winter to move the snow off of the vegetation below to eat. Did you know you can tell where we have been by our distinct hoof prints which look like 2 fat banana's facing each other!

Well there Old Faithful blows so better go!  If you would like to see a bison like me in our natural habitat, your best chance would be to visit Yellowstone National Park or Custer State Park in South Dakota!! 

 

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

Just 6 hours southeast of Billings lies one of the west’s greatest destinations for history, recreation, and western culture. South Dakota’s Black Hills offer all of this and more. If you have lived in Billings for any period of time and still have not visited Mount Rushmore, than you are desperately in need of a vacation. For those of us who have visited the hallowed tourist trap a few times, it’s easy to dismiss the idea of future trips to the region, thinking that we have ‘been there, done that’. As I recently discovered, there is much more to this region than a few sculpted mountains.

I was given the opportunity this past summer to visit the Black Hills again. This time, I would be joining a guided tour given by Austin-Lehman Adventures, a Billings-based adventure tour company that has been honored time and again by Travel+Leisure Magazine as the world’s best travel company. This would be an interesting trip for me for two reasons. First, I usually have an aversion to guided tours, preferring to plan my own trips. Second, the trip included a 109 mile bike ride along the Mickelson Trail. I don't care who you are, that sounds like a lot of miles on a bike, particularly if you are like me and the bulk of your bike riding experience was gathered on the back of a Huffy. 

Once I finally began the trip, I was blown away by the experience I had. Our guides, Cory and Carrie, were not only knowledgeable but fun to be around. The trip took us to some of the most well-known Black Hills destinations (Deadwood, Sturgis, Mount Rushmore), as well as some lesser known stops (Bear Butte State Park, The Mammoth Experience). Then there was the Mickelsen Trail. The trail itself is definitely "bucket list" worthy. It is basically a 109-mile bike tour through all the icons of the wild west. During the trip we saw plenty of deer, antelope, bison, prairie dogs, hawks, eagles, and, yes, even cows, many of which were right up on the trail! We rode through dry, weathered ghost towns and watched a reenactment of a shoot-out in the streets of Deadwood, where Wild Bill Hickok was shot in a saloon holding the now famous "Dead Man's Hand", Aces and 8's.  The kind of beauty which exists along this trail can only be experienced in the Black Hills. 

Our guides split the trail into manageable daily increments, with checkpoints and lunch stops along the way. Perhaps part of what motivated us the most during our rides was the knowledge that once we reached that checkpoint, our guides would have a surprise waiting for us in the form of a tray full of fresh fruit, or yogurt with granola, or special Mexican Coca-Cola that is made using real sugar. Each day one of the guides would ride along with the group on the trail while the other drove the van to the checkpoints and to pick up the group at the end of the day’s leg. At this point we would need only to park our bikes and climb into the van. Everything else was taken care of for us. 

For me, what surprised me most about my experience with Austin Lehman was the relationships that I built. I'm usually a pretty antisocial guy, but the environment created by our guides made everybody feel at ease. By the second or third day, my travel mates felt more like old friends than strangers. We would even spend our free time with the group rather than exploring on our own. In fact, maybe this is what makes an Austin-Lehman adventure so memorable. Beyond the trip planning and little surprises and general pampering you receive, somehow Austin-Lehman manages to create an environment where you, and the people around you, can just be yourselves and get the most out of your vacation. No matter what kind of traveler you are, whether you prefer to blaze your own path or would rather let somebody else do the planning, I agree with Travel+Leisure Magazine when they say that you should definitely consider Austin Lehman for your next travel adventure.

The final dog days of summer are holding strong here in "SOUTH DAKOTA VACATION" and I have the perfect remedy to beat the late season heat.  A few years ago I was introduced to this peculiar treat while living in the mountains of North Carolina.  This sweet and savory concoction explodes with flavor as it fizzes upon your taste buds. 

Picture of Nick Gulping down the coke

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

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!

When most people think of "riding" in South Dakota an image of a Harley Davidson comes to mind. On  South Dakota cycling tours you'll explore the "Badlands" by pedaling on two wheels!

Rapid City is often called the "Gateway to the Black Hills" and the "City of Presidents". Your adventure begins and ends in Rapid City. Named after the creek that runs nearby Rapid Creek.

What can I do on my South Dakota vacation? Many ask. As an adventure vacation destination there are  many highlights; Mount Rushmore, Chief Crazy Horse Monument, Custer State Park, Reptile Gardens, The Badlands, Wall Drug, Deadwood, The Passion Play and of course the Sturgis Bike Rally. The pine covered mountains and prarie lands are abundant in wildlfe and natural attractions. You can also try your hand at Texas Hold'em; Slots, Progressive Poker or Black Jack!

When it comes to cycling tours, what most dont know is that the Mickelson Trail is on the list of many cyclsts to do list. The trail offers a great way to get out and explore the countryside of South Dakota. Part of the Rails to Trails, the Mickelson Trail is an old railbed. constructed in 1890 it operated as a dedicated route until 1983. You can cycle the entire trail in one day or split it out into a few days. The trail was named after the state governonr George S Mickelson. Established in this cycling trail Adventure is a total of 110 miles.

 

And if you would like to try some good local cuisine a visit to Kevin Costner's restaurant or bar & grill. Located on the main street of Deadwood.

I will leave you with "Where the heck is Wall Drug?"

 

Your adventure friend,

Carol Austin

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

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

One of our brand new guides this year is a guy by the name of Corey Meyer or Cowboy Corey as he’s come to be called. Corey may be new to Austin-Lehman, but he’s not new to the guiding business! If you’re lucky enough to sit down and have a chat with Corey on our Yellowstone or South Dakota Adventures, you’ll hear stories of life on a ranch, his experience guiding zip line tours, or just about his explorations in and around the state of Montana. From ski instructor to bike racer, Corey is no stranger to adventure!  With a big smile and a twinkle in his eye, Corey is a likeable guy right from the start. Go ahead and check out his guide profile and meet all of our other guides too! All friendly, adventure-loving professionals, you will have friends for life after taking a trip with ALA!

See you on the trails!

Kasey Austin

 

Is there any better way of experiencing a place than cycling the back roads of a destination? I think not! 

Making your way to Old Faithful Geyser via bike will surely be a memorable part of your Yellowstone National Park vacations.  Cruising the rolling hills of California’s Wine Country, or the sea side trails of the San Juan Islands add an adventurous element to your trip that shouldn’t be missed.  Feeling the breeze on your face as you explore the natural wonders of not only our domestic destinations, but all across the globe, really helps give you a sense of peace and place as you travel.

Biking for vacation can seem overwhelming if you haven't done it before, but once you are on that seat, participating in all the elements around you, I promise, you will soon realize there is nothing better! Imagine pedaling your way through the small villages of Europe, coasting down hills to the salt pans of Peru, or biking the Michelson Trail in South Dakota.  Why not trade your 4 wheels in for 2 and see where it takes you! With so much to see and do I hope you will try incorporating biking into your future adventure vacation packages.

 

Your Friendly Adventure Consultant,

 

Mindy Vanderhoof

Who doesn't just love a good story of pioneer grit and survival?!  South Dakota is home to some of the most colorful history you'll find in the American West.  The Black Hills is home to a number of historical sites and filled with natural beauty.  I have visited the area many times and enjoy hiking and biking around this western edge of the state.  I've found the quiet forests to be one of my favorite places to camp and watch the wildlife.

If you like cycling tours and you've heard of the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy, dedicated to converting old rail grades into public use, then the Mickelson Trail should be on your 'To Do' list of bike tours.  I haven't actually riden the entire length of it, but I did spend a few hours in the rain one afternoon going from Hill City to Rochford, a 20+ mile, scenic stretch that has 3 of the 4 total tunnels found along the trails entire length. Family and friends that have cycled the trail (109 miles end to end) have had nothing but good things to say about it.  Other points of interest in the area that are considered must-dos is, of course, Mount Rushmore,  the incomplete but slowly progressing Crazy Horse Memorial (Native American tribute), Wind Cave National Park, Custer State Park and without fail, the historic and colorful town of Deadwood.  South Dakota's character is forever marked by the early exploration of Lewis and Clark, the wild years of Gold Rush in the 1870s, and the determination and spirit of the early homesteaders like the Engels family (Little House on the Prarie) who like thousands of others chose to settle and develop the land for the good of the country and the expansion of the western territories.  South Dakota is as much at the heart of America as any other historical place known for that distinction.  Don't miss this gem of the West!

                     

One of the many tunnels on the                 Harney Peak, South Dakota's highest point

Mickelson Trail

 

Your friendly travel expert,

Richard Tooke

Kasey's Kids Webinar

Kasey Austin is leading a group of young adventurers into an interactive webinar about what kids really want from their family adventure vacation. We first said we would give the first 25 kids a "certified cool" kids pack and an ALA gift. But since the boss is out of town till after the webinar, Kasey and I have agreed to give every kid that attends a "certified cool" kids pack and an ALA gift!!!! Is that cool or what?

Who is Kasey Austin? Kasey Austin is one of our top veteran guides and has been guiding family  adventure vacations since she was 6 years old. Kasey's passion for the outdoors is contagious and she is always a hit with the kids. The few trips I've been on with Kasey there is always 1 or 2 kids that say "I want to be a guide like Kasey when I grow up."

Last summer Kasey guided our Yellowstone tours, Alaska adventure vacations and cycling tours in the Black Hills of South Dakota.

This summer she will be guiding and working in the office, sharing her knowledge and passion for the outdoors to help us create even better trips. That is the focus of Kasey's Kids Webinar, to find out what kids really want from an adventure vacation. Then we can take knowledge we get from this webinar and apply it in the field to make our family adventure vacations the best they could be!

For more information on Kasey's webinar check out www.austinlehman.com/kids

Or to sign up for this webinar, please visit: https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/571338808

This Webinar is Sunday, April 14 @ 4pm EST.

Thanks and hope to see you there!

ALA Adventurer,

Jonathan

Kasey here, Field Operations Liaison/Guide for Austin-Lehman Adventures. As a guide of our new South Dakota Adventure last year, I am so stoked about this trip that I’m coming at you today with my top 5 reasons to pack your bags and head on over to the Black Hills with ALA! And we’re off…

1. The Mickelson Trail – Ahhh, Isolation…

If you’ve ever wanted to ride alone on a beautiful bicycle trail, then check our South Dakota cycling tours! We spend a few hours here and there throughout this six day adventure biking the 109 mile Mickelson Trail. This crushed limestone and gravel trail travels up and down through towering ponderosa pine forests and traverses private farmland full of haystacks and cows. And the best part – there’s a good chance that you won’t see another biker on this deserted trail!

2. The Towns – A Look Back in Time

South Dakota is full of those towns that you’ve heard of but have never been to. You’ll witness the vivacity of Deadwood, a lively little town in the midst of the Black Hills National Forest, famous for its historic characters like Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane. Sturgis, a normally sleepy town for most of the year, transforms into a rough and tumble motorcycle rally each August where people travel from around the world to partake in some motorcycle madness!These are just a few of the towns you’ll explore, by foot and by bike, that are vibrant with stories of the past.

3. Custer State Park – Wild Burros!!

Custer State Park, South Dakota’s largest and first state park, is home to a wide array of wildlife from its famous herd of 1500 free-roaming bison to pronghorn antelope and bighorn sheep. You’ll even get to meet the friendly wild burros who roam freely in the southern section of the Park, walking straight up to your van or bike to grunt a hello.(Hint: you may want to be carrying a granola bar or two on you!)

4. Wind Cave – Damp, Dark, & Dank…NOT!

The United States’ first cave to be designated as a national park was Wind Cave, established in 1903 by President Theodore Roosevelt. On our tour with our National Park Service guide, you’ll learn the fascinating (and somewhat funny) story of how this cave came to be our nation’s seventh national park. If you’re looking for a creepy damp cave, stalactites hanging from the ceiling, and bats flapping around, this is not the cave for you. Wind Cave is quite the opposite, and you’re guaranteed to see the intricate boxwork formation that this cave is known for, up close!

5. Mount Rushmore/Crazy Horse Memorial – A Must See

Last, but certainly not least, you need to make the trek up to South Dakota to witness the majesty of what the locals call “The Heads” (more commonly known as Mount Rushmore). Sculpted by Gutzon Borglum and his son, Lincoln, this memorial is a must-see for every person, not only as a tribute to our American presidents but as a magnificent work of art on a large scale. Equally as awe-inspiring (but not as well known) is the nearby Crazy Horse Memorial, a commemoration to the famous Native American leader and a response to Mount Rushmore. Discover both on our South Dakota Adventure Vacation Packages!

See you on the trails,

Kasey Austin

When guests are first trying to decide on their destination, we are often asked which one of our cycling tours is the best. Frankly, they all are. We put a lot of time and effort into planning and arranging the locations, activities and accommodations for our bike adventure vacation packages. That’s what adventure travel companies such as ours are all about – to handle every detail of your vacation so that you can sit back, and well, enjoy the ride.

Many travelers spend so much time planning and preparing for their vacations that by the time they get back home, they need a vacation from their vacation. That’s not what happens on an Austin-Lehman adventure at all. Our friendly and professional guides give you the experience of a lifetime so you just need to bring yourself, friends or family and a camera. We take care of every little element in our 17 biking tours.  Our cycling adventures are for singles, couples and families and all skill levels.

Our biking vacations will take you to South Dakota or various locales in Europe including Austria, Denmark, France, Italy, Germany, Spain or Holland. We even have a biking vacation in the South American wine country of Chile and Argentina.

No matter which bike adventure you choose, we are here to make your vacation memories last a lifetime.   
 

With Valentine’s Day just a few days away, the thoughts of many men and women go to finding just the right gift to express their love and appreciation for that someone special. Why not consider adventure vacations for couples? Time away from the real world – kids, work and responsibilities – may be just the thing to add a little romance to bring couples back to the days when they first met.

Adventure Vacation Packages
Adventurous couples may enjoy an active vacation filled with hiking, rock climbing or cycling tours. Our adventure trips are worldwide journeys for couples to experience nature’s beauty up close. Stay closer to home in Arizona, South Dakota or Montana. Venture further by traveling to Italy, Peru, Chile or France. Pretty much anywhere there are mountains, trails and picturesque scenery, there’s an adventure waiting.

Romantic Getaways
For those who desire a little more one on one time, our gourmet and wine tasting trips may be just the ideal getaway. Touring historic cities and sites and then spending evenings with fine wines and gourmet dining in California or European cities offers a more intimate time to revive and refresh relationships.

Exotic Destinations
Getting away from it all and experiencing the exhilarating rush of viewing wild animals in their natural habitat while on safari tour will certainly add some heart stopping action to a couple’s relationship. Visit the bush in Africa or the jungles of South America and allow these exotic destinations to capture the essence of what being together is all about.

Learn more about our vacation destination packages by calling us at (800) 575-1540 or visiting our 2012 digital vacation catalog.

Austin-Lehman Adventures has been showing our guest the best of our country’s National Parks for the last 27 years. We strive to incorporate the “hidden” gems on our National Park Tours. We also provide professional and knowledgable guides to show you the way and explain how we can help to preserve and protect our National Parks for tomorrow’s generation. We decided to share our top 10 “uncovered” gems of our National Park tours. Don’t worry we still have plenty up our sleeve…

1,) Yosemite National Park
Yosemite is home to a wide range of beautiful scenery, but probably best known for their stunning glacier carved valleys and enormous granite walls. John Muir named this place the ‘range of light’ and for good reason. One place to really get a full scale of these massive valleys is from Glacier Point, 3,214 feet above the floor of Yosemite Valley. Although Glacier Point is not “hidden” this spot is often over looked, this scenic point can be accessed by a 30-45min drive from the valley floor.

2.) Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone is renowned for its amazing scenery and wildlife, here at ALA we try to show our guest a side of Yellowstone that they might not see on their own. That is why we have created Safaris in Yellowstone. What is a safari in Yellowstone you ask? An expedition to one of the most premiere wildlife viewing spots in North America. Often referred to as the “Serengeti of the West” we set out for the Lamar Valley to observe animals in their natural habitat, the ALA way! Our morning starts off at 5am at our hotel in Mammoth Hot springs, early morning is the best time to view the wildlife. Then we drove into the Lamar Valley, to catch a glimpse of grizzly bears, wolves, elk, herds of bison, antelope, black and brown bears.

3.) Canyonlands National Park
A real treat on our Utah- Arches to Moab trip is a bike ride along the Island in the Sky route. The Island in the Sky trail takes you along a sheer-walled mesa that is in the northern part of Canyonlands National Park. The route follows the rim of the mesa, with scenic points where you get amazing views out over the surrounding country, including rugged canyons that have been carved by the Colorado and Green rivers. In many places the surrounding country is 1,000 feet down, virtually straight down, just an added bonuses to this all ready heart pumping ride.

4.) Wind Cave National Park – South Dakota
Did you know that the United State’s 7^th national park was created in none other than South Dakota? Not only that, but this national park was created underground! Wind Cave National Park takes the status of the world’s first “cave national park” and is comprised of one of the world’s longest and most complex cave systems as well as the mixed grass prairie, ponderosa pine forests, and assortment of wildlife that flourish above the cave’s surface. Containing nearly 95% of the world’s boxwork formation, this cave lacks the stalactites, stalagmites, bats, dampness, and creepy crawlies that you’d normally associate with a cave. On ALA’s South Dakota tour, we descend into the depths of the cave with our national park service guide by our side. You’ll be amazed by the unique formations, colorful stories, and the general “feel” of the cool, dark cave!

5.) Kenai Fjords National Park
On our Alaska Adventure, you’ll be entering the only section of Kenai Fjords National Park that is accessible by road. Explore valleys sculpted by glaciers and get up close and personal with Exit Glacier, one of the out-flowing glaciers of the magnificent 700 square mile Harding Icefield. You’ll discover firsthand how plant life reclaims the barren rocky landscape as you ascend from green, luscious plant vegetation to an “as-far-as-the-eye-can-see” moon-like display of snow and ice. Views along the Exit Glacier Trail are nothing other than spectacular, but if you can ascend to the summit (which is definitely a challenge), you will remember the views of a lifetime (especially if you’re lucky enough to experience a clear visibility day!)

6.) Grand Teton National Park
Kayaking the pristine, clear waters of Jackson Lake is one of those experiences where you can’t help but think “Life is Good!” Keep an eye out for bald eagles, mule deer, osprey, and maybe even a playful group of river otters on the banks. Settle into a comfortable pace as you paddle your kayak through the calm lake near a wild bird sanctuary. About three-quarters of the way through this loop, we make a stop at our own private rocky beach. As we eat a cold bowl of ice cream on a hot, sunny day, we take in the magnificent views of the square-topped Mount Moran, seemingly emerging out of the far end of Jackson Lake! After skipping some rocks, building a few log structures and even playing a little “King of the Kayak,” we’ll head out for the marina where we will indulge in a tasty, nutritious lunch at a beautiful picnic area on the shores of our playground!

7.) Yellowstone – Wapati Trail
Experience all of the thrills of Yellowstone National Park in one single hike! Walk through the rolling grasslands covered in wildflowers with names like Indian Paintbrush, Yellow Columbine, and Fireweed, and keep an eye out for the enormous rack of a bull elk laying in the shade of a lodgepole pine tree. “Walk on the moon” as you enter a barren, white-out landscape created by one of Yellowstone’s four geothermal features: a hissing, steaming fumaroles. Continue past the lily pad pond and up a short, steeper section of trail to emerge upon one of the most beautiful views you will see in a lifetime – the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River.

8.) Bryce Canyon National Park
Hike the magical hoodoo rock formations of Bryce’s Peek-a-Boo trail. This trail gives you amazing views of the Hoodoo formations. Hoodoos are tall slender spires of rock that protrude from the bottom of arid basins and “broken” lands. The formation name is Claron Limestone, the rock’s age is from Paleocene or Eocene age, 40-60 mya. The Native Americans believed that the Hoodoo formations would come to live as giants and ward off intruders.

9.) Zion National Park
Kolob Canyons is home to magnificent mountains of red sandstone. Kolob Canyons is a remote 30,000 acre block of Zion National Park located northwest of Zion Canyon.  It boasts the parks highest peaks – Horse Ranch Mountain at 8,726 feet and some of Zion’s youngest strata. The Kolob Arch flaunts one of the longest spanning freestanding arches in the world. The structure is an adult alcove natural arch set high on an exposed cliff. It was made as a result of vertical joint expansion, wall collapse and erosion.

10.) Glacier National Park
Hiking the Iceberg Lake Trail, the hike surrounds you in amazing flora with bear grass as high as your chest. The lake trail also provides some of the finest wildlife viewing opportunities in Glacier National Park. The vertical elevation gain of 1200 feet, providing unsurpassed views of the park. Lake Iceberg is named for the “icebergs” that float around on the lake. The lake sits in the shadows on the northern flank of Mt. Wilbur, receiving very little sun.

That is it for now… If you want to see some more uncovered gems of our National Parks, join us on one of our National Park Tours.

Your friends at Austin-Lehman Adventures

Jack chuckles as he recalls his last vacation with Linda. As a newly dating couple, their first weeklong getaway included a map with too few details, lost hotel reservations, and forgotten picnic lunches on several occasions. Linda even had a run in with a beehive and guess who forgot to bring the first aid kit?! Jack appreciates the memories now but remembers the stresses of the critical moments on what was supposed to be a relaxing vacation. Does this sound in any way familiar? Are you ready to plan the perfect getaway for you and your honey? Well, read onto discover some helpful hints on planning, preparing and playing on your next couples adventure!

1. Where Should We Go? What’s on your bucket list? What’s on your partner’s bucket list? Is there anywhere that you’veboth always wanted to visit? Write down your top 10 places you want to vacation and compareit with your significant other’s. Do your lists overlap? Can you meet somewhere in the middle?Choosing your destination is the beginning of an exciting process for creating the perfectvacation. What better way to bring you together as a couple than planning for an adventure inyour future? Whether you’re brand new to this or you’re a seasoned veteran to the planningprocess, choosing the perfect vacation can be a memorable experience.

2. Biking, Lounging or Both? Now you need to figure out what kinds of activities you both like to do. Do you enjoy cycling onyour weekends or would you both rather lounge on the beach with a good book? Maybe you liketo go the extra mile while she would rather pamper herself in the spa. Whatever activities youlike to do, there is a tour operator out there for you, waiting to fulfill your requests. Many touroperators create flexible schedules so that you and your significant other can choose the rightamount of activity for you in a stress-free environment. And we all know that the perfect couplesvacation includes the least amount of stress!

3. Been There Done That. Maybe you’ve already hiked through the Grand Canyon together or rafted the Pacuare River in Costa Rica. But have you ever biked in France along the banks of the calm Loire River? Can yousay that you’ve snowshoed through drifting white snowbanks while watching Old Faithful eruptagainst a frosty sky? Would you ever hike the Inca Trail to be rewarded with the stunning viewof Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate? Trying a new activity as a couple in a new destination canbe a rewarding experience for the both of you as you travel outside your comfort zone. The thrillof ziplining through a rainforest canopy will not soon be forgotten if you take a go at it together..

4. How Many is Too Many? Do you want to vacation with just you and your honey? Or would you rather join a group oflikeminded individuals with the same goals in travel as you? This is a question to ponder withyour significant other. Independent travel as a couple can be a romantic way to enjoy your one-on-one time together. Group travel is also a fun way to meet other couples and discover newexperiences. Whichever way you decide to go, you still get to spend quality time together andthat’s what really matters!

5. Time and Dinero- This is the fun part! What does your future time frame look like? Does she only get two weeksof vacation time a year? Does he not want to travel in the summer months when families crowdthe ideal destinations? How are you going to know when the “right” time is to travel? A tip forcouples: traveling in the offseason (spring and fall) can be a great (and cheaper) way to see someamazing destinations without the crowds. If you can’t make the offseason work for your timeschedule, no worries – there are many romantic pockets of busy destinations just waiting to bediscovered. As for dinero, make sure you and your significant other create a budget for travelthat you both feel comfortable with. Vacationing without overspending is a satisfying feeling that
will leave you and your other half wanting to travel again and again!

6. All the Factors- There are so many different variables that can become part of the vacation planning process butyou will want to center in on just a few so as not to get overwhelmed! Accommodations are a bigone. Do you want to sleep luxuriously in a four star hotel or camp under the stars on a cot? Therange of accommodations is endless and up to what you and your spouse feel comfortable with.Another variable to look at is climate. Would you rather race down the ski slopes on a winterwonderland vacation or bask under an African sun while searching for the elusive cheetah?Also, what types of terrain are you as a couple ready for? Hilly or flat? Rocky or smooth? Longor short? Looking at every single factor in the vacation planning process can be overwhelming.Tour operated trips can take the stress out of this variable planning process by giving youunlimited options in doing a vacation your way.

7. Google is Your Friend! Go ahead and research to your heart’s content. The great thing about Google is that typingin “Yellowstone” or “Couple’s Retreat” will pull up thousands of search results that you cannarrow down over a few days or a few months. Really, it’s up to you. How much time do youwant to put into creating the perfect vacation for you and your spouse? Do you want to createa vacation from scratch as a couple or would you rather find an all inclusive vacation package?As you begin your research on your ideal destination, you may find yourself quickly narrowingdown the possbilities. Afterall, you and your significant other have already talked about whereyou want to go and what you want to do – now go find it!

8. Ask around- Is there just too much on the Internet for you to sift through on your own? Talk to other couplesthat you know who’ve traveled before – they probably have some great suggestions. Also, a localtravel agent can help you narrow down your search. Tour operators can connect you with pastguests who can recommend a specific trip. The possibilities are endless – just get out there andask!

9. Working Out is… Fun did you both just sign up for that big bike trip in South Dakota that you’re not quite sure you’reready for? Why not work out together to prepare yourself for an active vacation? With ouralready busy schedules, it’s difficult to find time to go to the gym or even take a walk aroundthe neighborhood. Pledge to your significant other that you will do some sort of activity togethersay, three times a week for at least 45 minutes. Get those old bikes in the garage tuned up for aride along the local bike path. Take a yoga class together. Take the dog on a walk. Your workoutplan doesn’t have to be strenuous – just get out there together! You’ll feel better about yourself,your relationship, and your preparedness for your upcoming adventure!

10. Live It Up together! Take advantage of your time spent together on your vacation. Do things you never thought youwould do. Sneak a bottle of champagne out onto the balcony to enjoy a drink under the stars.Ride the last leg of the bike ride to get the best view of the sunset. Book that massage that youjust never seemed to have time for back home. Make your vacation as memorable as possible
because these will be the stories that you as a couple hold with you always. And don’t forget, it’snever too early to start planning your next vacation!

If you’re looking to plan the perfect getaway for two, start with these tips and see what you come up with. Begin thinking today about where you want to go tomorrow – the possibilities are endless! With a little planning and preparation, you can be sure to cash in on the perfect couples adventure. So go ahead, get started lovebirds!

Your friendly travel expert,

Kasey Austin