When I think of travel, I often think about making an elaborate trip. Take off work, arrange for drop off/pick up at the airport, car rental, hotel, and lots of research. Before even starting your trip, a substantial amount of time and money have already been spent. My question to you is: have you also spent some time exploring the world close by you as well?
A large benefit from exploring your section of the world is less time traveling which means more time playing and more money to spend on the fun. Another positive is that when friends come to visit you, you will already know all the great places to explore with them.
This past weekend I went on a 4 day/3 night snowmobiling retreat in Island Park, Idaho. At only 1.5 hours away, I felt more comfortable spending the money to get the snowmobile rental so I could be fully engaged in the weekend. Logistics can be an issue when you are getting into these high octane adventures when you don’t own the equipment yourself, so hopping on with a retreat or a hotel package deal will make the situation much more smooth. I went with a group of about 50 in which there were communal snowmobiles or individual ones available to rent. They picked up, dropped off, and provided all the fuel for the snowmobiles. Food was provided, as was entertainment when we weren’t out on the trail.
Snowmobiling in 6 miles to the 9,000 sq ft South Sawmill Lodge was a bit of a logistical pain, but having no neighbors and fields full of powder was, by far, worth it, especially with a group of 50. I had seen both Mesa Falls and Herriman State Park in Island Park in the summer, but seeing it in the winter and getting there via snowmobile was a whole new experience. Exploring near your home affords you the opportunity to see places in different seasons.
What local attractions have you seen in one season, but maybe not in another? Go check it out!
This adventure retreat opened my eyes to consider what interesting destinations are close by me that I need to be seeking out in between my further distanced adventures.
Happy exploring!
