Research & Customization

If you want your trip to be great, do some research ahead of time, and don’t be afraid to nerd out. The more you dig in, the more your adventure will feel like it’s made just for your crew. When you are out there, you will be too busy to be researching where to go or what to do, and you will end up missing opportunities.

Google Maps, AllTrails, Trailforks:

Before the trip, I spend a lot of time on Google Maps in satellite view, just looking for hidden spots, cool campgrounds, and scenic drives. If you see something interesting, check the reviews and photos. On Maps, you can “star” locations to remember them later.  I have about 800 locations starred.  For hikes and bike rides, AllTrails is my go-to for trails and real-world tips. Trailforks is great for mountain biking. Download offline maps for these apps before you head out since cell service is hit-or-miss.

Finding the Best Groceries and Eats:

Scout out grocery stores ahead of time. There’s nothing better than a great market or a little place with killer takeout meals you can reheat at camp. We went to a grocery in Bend, OR called “Market of Choice” that had amazing precooked food, and it made our next couple of nights a culinary highlight of the trip. Look up local breweries, bakeries, or seafood markets if you want to try the area’s specialties. Check Google reviews, save your favorites to a custom list, and you’ll always have options when you roll into town. If a place has thousands of reviews and over four stars, it’s a safe bet. Part of the beauty of this trip is the culinary experience.

Customize for Your Crew:

All of this is just to say: build your trip around what excites you and your family. Use tech and research tools to make the adventure fit your style. If you love birding, fishing, history, or food, you can tailor the whole trip around those themes. There’s a ton of info out there if you’re willing to look for it. Put in a little extra research, and you’ll get a lot more out of the journey.