10 Adventurous Family Vacation Ideas in North America

Planning a vacation for your family can be challenging, especially when you're looking for something fun and unique that everyone will enjoy. But with a little bit of planning and a sense of adventure, you'll find all the fun and excitement your family could hope for among the stunning natural beauty and wild corners of North America. Here are ten ideas for some of the best family adventures this summer:

Go White Water Rafting in the Canadian Rockies

Exploring legendary Banff and Jasper is awe-inspiring to say the least. Add in a rafting excursion on the wild Kicking Horse River, fed by the waters of the Yoho and Emerald Rivers, and you and your family will be reliving the adrenaline high for days. Experience it on Backroads' Canadian Rockies Family Multi-Adventure Tour

Ride Horseback in the Wild West of Yellowstone

Saddle up and ride horseback high into the Rocky Mountains to overlook the beautiful rolling range of surrounding ranches, Hebgen Lake, the Continental Divide, the cowboy town of West Yellowstone and Yellowstone National Park itself. In a land full of wildlife, epic vistas, wide open skies and real life cowboys, there's no better way to experience it than the old fashioned way. Experience it on Backroads' Yellowstone & Tetons Family Multi-Adventure Tour

Try Canyoneering in Utah's Stunning Slot Canyons Bryce and Zion National Parks are playgrounds for adventure, brimming with unique rock formations and out-of-this-world landscapes. Take your family to explore stunning slot canyons, learning to apply the basics of knot tying, rappelling and down climbing as you immerse yourself in this incredible corner of America. Experience it on Backroads' Bryce, Zion & Grand Canyon Family Multi-Adventure Tour

Rock Climb in Yosemite National Park Yosemite is world-renowned for its granite walls and grand peaks, so it's no surprise the national park is a prime destination that both experienced and novice climbers flock to. Don't worry if you're a beginner, Yosemite offers climbs for all levels as well as expert climbing instructors to show you the ropes of this popular outdoor pursuit! Experience it on Backroads' Yosemite Family Multi-Adventure Tour

Whale Watch in Washington's Serene San Juan Islands

Take your family on a wildlife cruise in search of orcas, harbor seals, bald eagles, herons, otters and porpoises in the northern reaches of Washington state. On serene Puget Sound, enjoy great views of the San Juan Islands that dot the horizon and Vancouver Island from the water. Welcome to the picturesque Northwest! Experience it on Backroads' San Juan Islands Family Multi-Adventure Tour

Sea Kayak along Alaska's Rugged Kenai Peninsula

Venture throughout the endless bays, islands, waterfalls and beaches that fill this absolutely beautiful corner of Alaska, while keeping watch for passing bald eagles, harbor seals, sea otters, harbor porpoise and even whales. Here on the edge of the "Last Frontier," the raw beauty of Alaska is simply unsurpassed. Experience it on Backroads' Alaska Family Multi-Adventure Tour

Stand-Up Paddleboard in the Florida Keys

There's no better place to stand-up paddleboard than in the southernmost point in the US, known for its clear shallow waters and abundant marine life -- the Florida Keys. Unique ecosystems are waiting to be discovered in the mangroves as you float peacefully above them, taking it all in and soaking up the fun and sunshine. Experience it on Backroads' Florida Keys Family Multi-Adventure Tour

Snorkel with Sea Turtles on Hawaii's Big Island

The sun-drenched Kohala Coast on Hawaii's volcanic Big Island is the perfect tropical hub for fantastic snorkeling. Join endless schools of colorful tropical fish and Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles in the clear waters of the Pacific Ocean. Then kick back in the soft sand and soak up this life in paradise! Experience it on Backroads' Hawaii's Big Island Family Multi-Adventure Tour

Bike in Maine's Acadia National Park

Cycle through Acadia National Park on the historic (and car-free) Carriage Roads that were built and donated by John D. Rockefeller. Up for a challenge? Ride to the top of Cadillac Mountain, the highest mountain on the Eastern Seaboard. The rugged and rocky coast of Maine is as picturesque as it gets! Experience it on Backroads' Maine Family Multi-Adventure Tour

Hike among the California Redwoods

Northern California is home to some understated national and state parks which boast the world's largest remaining stands of virgin old-growth redwoods. Be humbled by the majestic beauty of colossal trees clustered along the pristine and wild California coast as you and your family enjoy some of the best hiking in America - an experience that will be remembered for a lifetime! Experience it on Backroads' Redwoods Family Multi-Adventure Tour