AP Photo/Grandfather Mountain, Hugh Morton
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The kids are out of school, the weather is beautiful, and there's so much to do that it's just too tough to decide where to go. It can be hard to find activities that both you and the kids will love, and although laying out on the beach somewhere has it's place sometimes, an adventure is in order. A recent issue of Breath Magazine makes choosing a green adventure in the Southeast just a little bit easier.
Oak Hill, W.V.
Whitewater rafting is one of the best outdoor adventures for families, and with good reason. It's a total adrenaline rush. Try ACE Adventure Resorts for some great first timer family trips. The upper New River has tons of mild rapids, which are perfect for families wanting to get out on the river safely. Kids should be at least 6 years old. The adventures are a bit more intense on the lower Gauley River, which is perfect for kids over 12 years old. Day rates on the New River start at $99 for adults and about half that for kids. Gauley River trips start at about $119 for adults and around $99 for kids.
Linville, N.C.
The Blue Ridge Mountains are awe inspiring, especially Grandfather Mountain. So plan a trip to camp out there with the whole family, which is a great way to get back in touch with nature. It's also easy on the budget. Grab a map in the onsite office at the trailhead. You can even make use of the camp ground's three bathhouses, hot water, and laundry facilities. Rates start at $20 a day for tent spots and about $50 a day for cabins.
Alpine Helen, Ga
An Alpine village in North Georgia? That's exactly what you'll find in charming Helen, which is tucked into the Blue Ridge Mountains along the Chattahoochee River. Helen has plenty to offer, including the breathtaking Anna Ruby Falls. The rare double waterfall awaits as a reward for hikers who complete a not-too-strenuous trek in the 9,700-acre Tray Mountain Wilderness. In addition, the Chattahoochee River offers quick access to some of the area's best canoeing, fishing, kayaking, and tubing adventures. Rent a cabin at Timberlake Cottages for $80 per night just 4 miles north of Helen, Ga. It's also convenient to Unicoi State Park and the beautiful Anna Ruby Falls.
Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, Md.
The 1.5 mile hike on the Woodland Trail passes through a serene maritime forest and ends with an overlook where the beloved Chincoteague ponies can usually be seen. The kids will be amazed by the ponies and the hike is just the right distance for the whole family. There's a $10 entrance fee per vehicle and lodging and dining is available in the Wildlife Refuge.
Upstate South Carolina's "Golden Corner" near Pickens, S.C.
Bike the 15 to 25 miles trail in the vibrant outdoors of the Sumter National Forest. Check out local gems including Clemson University's lovely South Carolina Botanical Garden, the Cherokee Indian Interpretive Center and Hagood Mill, known for its recently discovered Native American petroglyphs. Admission to the park is $5 to 7 depending on the campsite.
More Adventures:
How to Go Green: Outdoor Sports
Educate Kids With Local Green Adventures
Escape the Cold—Plan a Quick, Green Winter Getaway to Key West
Meet Stephen Brooks
Got a tip or a post idea for us to write about on Planet Green? Email pgtips (at) treehugger (dot) com.
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