Hey there, adventurous parents! If you’re planning a family trip and want to sprinkle a bit of magic on it, then riding the SkyTrail at Trees of Mystery is definitely something you should put on your to-do list. But before you hop on this gondola journey through the tops of towering redwood trees, here are ten things you need to know when riding the SkyTrail with kids. Buckle up (metaphorically speaking) and let’s dive in!
The Journey Begins at Brotherhood Station
First things first, you’ll start your adventure at Brotherhood Station. It’s like the Hogwarts Express station of the forest, but with fewer owls and more trees. You can either take a leisurely walk along one of the park’s interpretive trails to get there or opt for the shuttle if your kiddos aren’t quite up for the trek. Just remember, the journey is half the fun, so let them explore a bit!
The Gondola: A Room with a View
Once aboard one of the eight gondola cars, you and your little explorers will be whisked through the forest canopy. These aren’t just any gondolas; they’re Swiss-made, handicapped accessible, and as smooth as a baby’s cheek. The ride is about nine minutes one way, giving you plenty of time to soak in the views and snap those Insta-worthy shots.
A Pause for the Perfect Picture
Now, the gondolas glide at a breezy 11 mph, but they slow down at three points to a leisurely half mph. This is perfect for capturing those “look, we’re in the treetops!” family selfies. And don’t worry, even if your kid’s face is in a permanent state of hyper-excitement, there’s plenty of time to get that perfect shot.
Spectacular Views Await at Ted’s Ridge
When you reach the top, you’ll find yourself at Ted’s Ridge. It’s not just any ridge; it’s the kind of place where you want to take a deep breath and say, “Wow, nature is pretty cool, huh?” There’s an observation deck offering views of the Klamath backcountry and the sparkling Pacific Ocean. Bring binoculars for a closer look—or just make a game of who can spot the ocean first!
Hiking Down the Wilderness Trail (Optional, but Awesome!)
Feeling adventurous? The Wilderness Trail is a great option for families with older kids who are up for a bit of a hike. It’s a chance to see the forest as it stood for eons. Just make sure everyone’s wearing proper footwear—no flip-flops, folks! And remember, if it’s rainy, the trail might be closed, so check the weather before you go.
A Little Educational Touch
Each visit to Trees of Mystery is not just fun but also educational. It’s like sneaking veggies into your kids’ mac and cheese—they’ll be learning without even realizing it! From the unique ecosystem of the redwoods to the engineering marvel of the gondola itself, there’s a lot to discover and discuss.
SkyTrail’s Cool Stats and Fun Facts
Here’s a little trivia to impress the kiddos (and maybe yourself): The SkyTrail began operation on June 18th, 2001. It spans 1,570 feet one way and rises 571 feet vertically. The gondolas are designed by Poma in Colorado, and the cable is tested to 296,000 pounds. That’s a lot of elephants!
Safety First
If you’re anything like me, safety is always a top concern when the kids are involved. Rest assured, the SkyTrail is a fixed grip gondola with a moving drive, which is a fancy way of saying it’s really safe and well-maintained. Plus, each car is enclosed, so no one’s going to try any aerial acrobatics out there!
A Great Value for Family Fun
Many visitors say that the SkyTrail ride alone is worth the price of admission. Considering all the other cool stuff Trees of Mystery offers, it’s a pretty sweet deal. Think of it as one of those all-in-one packages—fun, education, and a bit of exercise all rolled into one.
Capture the Memories
Finally, don’t forget to take lots of photos, videos, or even jot down some memories in a travel journal. It’s these kinds of experiences that your family will look back on and laugh about for years to come. Maybe your kid will even thank you for such an awesome adventure (hey, it could happen!).
So there you have it, ten things to know before you embark on the unforgettable SkyTrail ride with your kids. It’s a chance to bond, explore, and create memories that will last a lifetime. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready for an adventure above the trees! 🌲🌟
Travel around Oregon with Us! Follow along on this Kelso Family Adventure!
For those visiting or living in the state of Oregon, let’s go out and see what it has to offer! The boys and I are sharing our Adventures by month. You can see where we love to visit from winter through summer.
[Click Here] to see all of our Oregon Adventures with Kids by Month!
