We have a treat for you today, our first guest post. Gabriela Espinosa is an Arizona native and mother of 2 teenagers. After being home for a year she’s excited to experience all that she finds so charming about the Upper Valley with her family. I think she sums up some great activities for locals and visitors to explore.
Guest post:
I have given myself the task of looking for new ways to keep them active, happy, and calm in these difficult times that we are living. Lately, I’ve been looking for a safe way to change the scenery where my teens can stay in touch with nature, and that’s how I found Quechee that I loved.
The arrival of the Covid-19 health crisis has affected our lives in different ways. We are facing levels of stress and feelings of uncertainty that we have never met before. Most of us have stayed home doing all of our daily activities, and our teenagers have been no exception.
Teenagers continue to take online classes and continue practicing social distancing that has brought them feelings of sadness and concern because they cannot spend time with their friends.
While all this passes by, as parents, we must find new ways of entertainment and distraction for our teenage children so we can take care of their well-being and mental health.
And as experts have recommended outdoor activities to counteract all the time we are indoors, the Upper Valley has a wide variety of fun activities that can entertain any teenager.
Quechee is one of the most beautiful cities in the Upper Valley, a secluded vacation destination with astonishing views, recreational activities for all ages, and isolated family-friendly accommodations where you can be safe away from the crowds. Here are five fun and safe things to do with our teenagers you will not want to miss out on the next time you plan a trip to this picturesque town.
Visit Lake Pinneo
An afternoon visit to Lake Pinneo is bound to be an exciting moment. This is a great stop when you’re in the mood to take in the lake views from the beach and enjoy the surrounding mountains with your teenagers. A collection of picnic tables and grilling areas provides just the right space for an outdoor meal, and for those that are stopping here with little ones in tow will appreciate that this area also includes access to playgrounds. Lake Pinneo also provides easy access to kayak, paddleboard, or canoe rentals.
The Quechee Gorge Trail
Hiking is a perfect activity to exercise together and share unforgettable moments connecting with nature. Invite your teen to lace up their boots and hit the trails you won’t want to miss out on the chance to explore the Quechee Gorge Trail while you’re in town. This trail provides trekkers with an opportunity to enjoy a 2.7-mile out and back route that’s rated relatively easy. It’s essential to make sure you’re equipped with the right footwear because the trail areas can be steep. With some idyllic views along the way, this trail promises fun and unique pictures, your teenager can share on Instagram.
Bikewoodstock
Biking is an enjoyable activity in Quechee, thanks to many paved and off-road routes established through this area. You can share unforgettable family moments peddle your way past a collection of covered bridges on this route, often referred to as the Bikewoodstock.
Golf in Quechee
Teenagers are dealing with a lot of stress today, and golf is a peaceful sport performed in nature, relaxing the body and mind when playing. The Quechee Club is home to two world-class courses known as Lakeland and Highland, and both courses provide a place where both avid and amateur golfers can enjoy time learning and perfecting their skills.
Skiing
If your teenagers can’t get enough skiing or snowboarding, spending time at the Quechee Ski Area is a must. Quechee skiing stands out as a favorite amongst new skiers and those looking for a family-friendly ski destination for winter fun. The Quechee Ski Area is smaller than other surrounding resorts, making it an ideal option for families traveling with skiers of varying ages and abilities.
