MORAL COMPASS: Great Places to Go Where the Going Does Good

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Adventure Travel, ecotourism, family-friendly adventures, Uncategorized

Explorateur Journeys Showcases 5 Memorable Family Adventures Around the World

July 2, 2025 MoralCompass

*Explorateur Journeys offers families a privately guided Icelandic road trip expedition © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

Explorateur Journeys, based in Ramsey, NJ, is showcasing these five memorable family adventures the company has created in incredible parts of the world:

Patagonia Family Expedition – Argentina & Chile
Adventurous families will love the wild majesty of Patagonia! Think easy guided glacier hikes at Perito Moreno, boat rides past icebergs, horseback riding with local gauchos, and wildlife-spotting in Torres del Paine. Comfortable family lodges offer cozy fire-lit evenings, hearty local cuisine, and stunning views that make for lifelong shared memories.

Japan’s Family-Friendly Culture Quest – Tokyo to Kyoto
Perfect for families curious about culture and tradition. Kids will love learning ninja moves in Kyoto, exploring samurai armor in Kanazawa, making their own sushi with master chefs in Tokyo, and soaking in kid-friendly onsen baths in Hakone. Add in high-speed train rides and manga museums for an unforgettable, educational adventure.

Icelandic Road Trip Adventure
It’s a whole outdoor playground of a country! Consider a privately guided expedition with stops at volcanic craters, bubbling geothermal pools, black sand beaches, and hidden waterfalls. Spend time riding Icelandic horses, visit lava caves, and even try whale-watching or glacier walks with expert guides.

Moroccan Caravan Experience
Transport yourself into world of storybook magic from exploring Marrakech’s colorful souks and learning to cook tagine with local chefs to camel rides over golden dunes for an overnight desert camp under the stars. Add guided medina treasure hunts and visits to Berber villages for cultural depth kids and adults will love.

New Zealand Nature & Adrenaline Safari
An epic family-friendly playground, from Hobbiton tours for movie lovers to zip-lining in lush forests and kayaking glowworm caves. Parents and teens can hike through Fiordland’s spectacular scenery while younger kids try farm stays with sheep shearing demos. Safe, clean, and welcoming, New Zealand is the total package.

Find out more about suchbespoke journeys at 973-420-8343, info@explorateurjourneys.com, info@explorateurjourneys.com.

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Active Travel, Adventure Travel, Experiential, Immersive Travel, health and wellness travel, Importance of Tourism, Uncategorized

Road Scholar: Adventure is Key Factor in Happiness and Health for Older Adults; Celebrate ‘Age Adventurously Day’ June 8

June 1, 2025 MoralCompass

Non-Profit Leader in Educational Travel Establishes June 8th as Annual National Observance, ‘Age Adventurously Day,’ in Celebration of 50th Anniversary

Adventuring in Vietnam. A study by the non-profit Road Scholar finds that adventure is a key contributor to the happiness and health of aging adults. The leader in educational travel has declared June 8^th “Age Adventurously Day, to motivate older adults to break free of their routines and seek out new experiences, and is offering prizes for participating. © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Road Scholar, the not-for-profit world leader in educational travel for older adults, released a new report indicating that adventure is a key contributor to the happiness and health of aging adults. Based on a survey of 300 adults aged 50 to 98, Road Scholar’s findings reveal that 94% of older adults who embrace adventurous activities – whether through travel, lifelong learning or stepping outside their comfort zones – report higher levels of wellbeing.

In addition to the report, the organization has announced a new national observance on its 50th anniversary June 8th, “Age Adventurously Day,” kicking off with a contest offering one lucky winner a travel voucher, among other prizes.

“Our Age Adventurously Report findings reinforce what we’ve always believed — adventure enriches both health and happiness, and our desire for new experiences only grows with age,” said James Moses, CEO of Road Scholar. “As we celebrate our 50th anniversary, we’re proud to launch Age Adventurously Day, proving adventure is not bound by age, but rather fueled by curiosity. We encourage everyone to spend June 8th doing something adventurous – whether that be trying out a new sport, tasting an exotic food, or exploring a new destination.”

Road Scholar’s Age Adventurously Report offers compelling insights into the connection between aging, adventure and wellbeing. Compared to previous generations, today’s older adults are more adventurous than ever before.

Here’s a look at a few standout findings:

Educational Experiences Spark Interest in Distant Destinations and Frequent Travel: Road Scholar’s survey results indicate that older adults who engage in educational travel are more likely to explore distant destinations and travel more often compared to their peers. Thirty-two percent of participants surveyed reported that the majority of their travel is international. Road Scholar participants also tend to travel more frequently with 45% of those polled taking 4-8 trips annually, compared to 26% of those not involved with the organization.

Adventure Adds to Health and Happiness: Nearly 100% of older adults surveyed agreed that being adventurous contributes to their health, happiness and wellbeing. In fact, Road Scholar participants above the age of 50 who actively embrace new experiences indicated feeling just as happy as they were in their 20s, 30s or 40s – scoring an average of 3.2 on a 5-point scale ranking happiness from “not happier” to “extremely happier.”

Adventurousness Across Generations: When asked if their generation was more adventurous in older adulthood than their parents’ generation, 75% of Gen Xers agreed and 89% of Boomers and Silent Gen concurred – showing that older adults have evolved to be more adventurous.

Celebrate Age Adventurously Day

In addition to its recent survey findings and in celebration of the company’s founding date and 50th-anniversary – underscoring its ongoing mission of inspiring lifelong learning – Road Scholar has declared June 8th as Age Adventurously Day. This now-approved annual observance, certified by the National Day Archives, aims to motivate older adults to break free of their routines, seek out fresh opportunities, and redefine what it means to age.

On June 8th each calendar year, Age Adventurously Day will serve as a reminder to individuals that aging does not mean the end of adventure, but rather a new beginning full of opportunities. The day invites everyone within the Road Scholar community and beyond to embrace the spirit of adventure, stepping beyond the ordinary, trying something they’ve always wanted to do, and making aging an adventure.

To kick off the inaugural Age Adventurously Day, Road Scholar is hosting a special contest. Participants are invited to share their plans for the day or submit stories and photos of their adventures at www.ageadventurously.org. One winner will receive a $1,500 travel voucher for a Road Scholar program, along with other prizes. Entries will be accepted through June 13, with the winner selected at random.

“Since 1975, Road Scholar has defied aging stereotypes every day, proving that adventure does not have an expiration date,” said Moses. “We want to inspire an Age Adventurously movement and encourage people around the world to take part in Age Adventurously Day, sharing their stories and empowering others to join the lifelong adventure.”

Click here to view Road Scholar’s full Age Adventurously report.

Learn more about Age Adventurously Day here.

For more information, visit roadscholar.org.

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Active Travel, Adventure Travel, National Parks, Uncategorized

How to Get Around Difficulty of Visiting Grand Canyon from National Park Budget Cuts? Go Rafting!

April 29, 2025 MoralCompass

SALT LAKE CITY, UT- If you were ever thinking about doing a rafting trip in the Grand Canyon, this is the year to do it.

While recent federal budget cuts to the National Park Service may impact visitor experiences across the country, travelers planning a Grand Canyon rafting trip with Western River Expeditions can rest easy: river adventures through this iconic landscape will go forward without disruption.

“Unlike some land-based activities that rely heavily on park staffing, our river trips operate independently,” explains Brian Merrill, CEO of Western River Expeditions. “Our trained guides and self-sufficient operations ensure guests experience the Grand Canyon’s wonders without interruption.”

Why Western River Expeditions’ Grand Canyon Trips Remain Secure:

History of Continuity: Even during past government shutdowns, Grand Canyon National Park has remained open and accessible, thanks to state-level funding support from Arizona.
- Operational Independence: As a licensed concessionaire, Western River Expeditions staffs, supplies, operates and manages its own trips under a long-term contract with the National Park Service.
- Emergency Readiness: Open communication with park officials ensures that emergency services will remain operational even during federal staffing shortages.

Western River Expeditions recommends that travelers consider purchasing travel insurance for added peace of mind when booking their trip.

A High-Demand Experience
Bonnie Cratch, Reservations Manager at Western River Expeditions, emphasizes the importance of early planning: “Grand Canyon trips are always in extremely high demand. Strict regulations cap the number of rafting participants allowed each year, so reservations fill quickly.”

The rafting season on the Colorado River runs from April through September. There are still a few spots available for August 2025 for those who act quickly.

Grand Canyon 6 or 7 Day Rafting Trip (ages 12+), featuring thrilling Class III–V rapids and unforgettable hikes into hidden canyons.
- Grand Canyon 4 Day Rafting Trip (ages 9+), perfect for families and first-timers, with exciting Class II–III rapids and incredible side canyon explorations.

Every trip includes off-river hikes to waterfalls, slot canyons, ancient ruins, and breathtaking side canyons — places unseen by most rim visitors. Western’s exclusive J-Rig rafts offer accessibility and comfort, even through the canyon’s most thrilling whitewater.

Learn more about Grand Canyon rafting trips: https://www.westernriver.com/grand-canyon-rafting

To request a 2025 catalog, check availability, or make reservations: call: 866-904-1160 (Local: 801-942-6669), visit: www.westernriver.com

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Active Travel, Adventure Travel, bike trips, camping trips, National Parks

10 ‘No Passport’ Summer Adventures: From Backcountry Biking to Horseback Riding, to Northern Lights

April 29, 2025 MoralCompass

No passport needed: Escape Adventures is offering a family-friendly, five-day camping and mountain bike adventure in Grand Canyon National Park that includes riding singletrack to Monument Point, hiking into the canyon on backcountry trails, pedaling across the Kaibab Plateau and conquering the Rainbow Rim trail before descending to Indian Hollow.

Forget crowded airports and currency exchange – “no-passport vacations” are the hottest trend this summer, with American travelers eager to explore incredible destinations right here in the United States. Recent reports show a surge in domestic travel, with 60% of people wanting to see more of their own country.

Here are 10 exciting “no-passport” summer adventures, from backcountry biking to horseback riding and chasing the Northern Lights:

Backcountry Biking in Utah: The Aquarius Trail Hut System offers a backcountry mountain biking experience like no other in the region. A system of five huts furnished with beds, a bathroom, a fully stocked kitchen and solar power has been strategically placed along a 190-mile route through some of Utah’s most scenic backcountry and best mountain biking trails. https://aquariustrail.com/

American Road Trip 2.0: Nothing is more rejuvenating than jumping in your car and heading out on an American road trip, and AdventureGenie is the world’s first AI-powered, end-to-end system for planning one. It offers the most immersive, innovative and intelligent adventure travel planning tools available. Whether starting from a curated GenieTrip or creating a fully customized and personalized journey from your own ideas, AdventureGenie has you covered. https://adventuregenie.com/

Alaska Lodge Adventure: Discover the rugged beauty of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park in Alaska on a guided five-day trip with Adventure Life that combines outdoor exploration with lodge-based comfort. Tour Kennicott Town and learn about its mining history, hike to a hidden lake or across a glacier, try ice climbing, fly into the backcountry for a day of wilderness exploration, and paddle a packraft through pristine waters. https://www.adventure-life.com/alaska/tours/18770/wrangell-st-elias-national-park-lodge-based-adventure

North Rim of Grand Canyon: Providing gently rolling terrain of lung-expanding dimensions, the North Rim has been long-held as sacred ground to hikers and cyclists alike. Escape Adventures is offering a family-friendly, five-day camping and mountain bike adventure that includes riding singletrack to Monument Point, hiking into the canyon on backcountry trails, pedaling across the Kaibab Plateau and conquering the Rainbow Rim trail before descending to Indian Hollow. https://escapeadventures.com/tour/grand-canyon-north-rim-mountain-bike-tour/

Yellowstone Fly Fishing: Take an expertly guided float down the Yellowstone River on one of Flying Pig Adventures’ custom rafts while you enjoy the spectacular scenery, abundant wildlife and world-class fly fishing. Just outside Yellowstone National Park, the upper stretches of the river are lightly fished, but hold large numbers of native cutthroat, rainbow and brown trout. Private access to the river allows guides to take guests where the fish are without fighting the crowds. https://www.flyingpigrafting.com/yellowstone-fly-fishing

Wine Country Weekend: North of San Francisco, the winding Russian River meets the dramatic Pacific coastline, shaping if not sheltering a world all its own. Escape Adventures offers an idyllic three-day road biking tour in this romantic landscape, quilted with a colorful patchwork of old growth redwoods, fruitful vineyards, historic towns and beautiful gardens. https://escapeadventures.com/tour/napa-valley-weekend-road-bike-tour/

Cowboy Up in Montana: Settle in at the Circle Bar Ranch in central Montana for horseback riding and other classic dude ranch adventures. On the ranch’s 520 acres and nearby national forest land, ride a trusty steed through open prairies, across the Judith River or up a ridge for a breakfast cookout, go hiking, try fly fishing, sport shooting or archery, or tour a Yogo sapphire mine by UTV. At the end of the day, enjoy traditional ranch recipes and locally inspired dishes, and cozy accommodations in a historic cabin, the lodge or Ranch House. https://www.circlebarranch.com/

Jackson Hole Tiny House: Fireside Jackson Hole redefines the traditional vacation with its collection of sustainably built, LEED-certified luxury cabins. Experience the intimacy of a boutique hotel and ambiance of a private residence, set within the atmosphere of a wooded campground – all moments away from the majesty of Grand Teton National Park. https://www.firesidejacksonhole.com

Alaska Northern Lights: On Gondwana Ecotours’ Alaska Northern Lights Adventure, guests will get a dose of local culture by day and photograph the Aurora Borealis at night. Highlights of the tour include dogsledding through snowy forests, taking curling lessons from locals, enjoying a meal with homesteaders, soaking in a geothermal hot spring, learning how to photograph the Aurora Borealis, snowshoeing on private land, having tea with a family of reindeer herders and more. https://www.gondwanaecotours.com/adventure-tours/northern-lights-tour-fairbanks-alaska/

Big Sky Summer: In Big Sky, Montana, The Wilson Hotel serves as a basecamp for summer adventures on the edge of Yellowstone National Park. Hike through shaded forests and wildflower-filled meadows, raft or fly fish the clear waters of the Gallatin River, experience the adrenaline rush of lift-served mountain biking, and explore the natural wonders and wildlife of the park. Afterward, enjoy Montana fare at the upscale yet casual Block 3 Kitchen & Bar on site or burgers, sandwiches and entertainment at Tips Up. https://thewilsonhotel.com/

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Active Travel, Adventure Travel, international travel

Traveler Concerns Mount as US Policy, Economic Outlook Shift Travel Plans

April 29, 2025 MoralCompass

Traveling in Vietnam, a destination that has seen robust growth in from the USA. Travelers on booked international trips are pretty resilient, but many may be rethinking future plans. “With nearly half of travelers altering their destinations in response to US international policies, the ripple effects of government decisions are clear,” Dan Richards, CEO of The Global Rescue said. “As a member of the US Travel and Tourism Advisory Board, I see the need for balanced policy approaches that support international trade and diplomacy without inadvertently deterring global mobility or discouraging tourism.” © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Lebanon, NH — Travelers are bracing for rising costs and rethinking their plans in response to recent US policy developments and economic uncertainties, according to the Spring 2025 Traveler Sentiment and Safety Survey conducted by Global Rescue, one of the world’s leading providers of medical, security, evacuation and travel risk management services.

The survey reveals that 83% of the world’s most experienced travelers expect travel costs to rise due to recent US policy initiatives, with nearly half (47%) saying travel costs will “definitely” increase and another 36% responding “probably.”

“Travelers are clearly feeling the impact of evolving US policies,” said Dan Richards, CEO of The Global Rescue Companies and a member of the US Travel and Tourism Advisory Board at the US Department of Commerce. “From anticipated cost hikes to shifting itineraries and delayed plans, US policy and economic signals are shaping traveler behavior and decisions for the rest of 2025.”

Economic uncertainty is also factoring into decisions—but not necessarily stopping travel. Nearly 65% of respondents said they have not canceled or postponed an international trip due to concerns about a possible recession. Similarly, 31% have not altered domestic travel plans, despite headlines warning of economic slowdown.

“There’s a degree of resilience in today’s traveler,” Richards added. “People may be modifying their destinations or delaying departures, but they are still prioritizing travel, especially internationally.”

According to the survey, more than half of travelers (55%) are changing which countries they visit and 34% are postponing international travel altogether due to international policy shifts. About one in four (24%) say they are not traveling internationally in 2025, while a slight but notable 5% opt out of domestic travel.

“With nearly half of travelers altering their destinations in response to US international policies, the ripple effects of government decisions are clear,” Richards said. “As a member of the US Travel and Tourism Advisory Board, I see the need for balanced policy approaches that support international trade and diplomacy without inadvertently deterring global mobility or discouraging tourism.”

Global Rescue surveyed more than 1,100 current and former members between April 8-12, 2025. The respondents revealed a variety of behaviors, attitudes and preferences regarding current and future travel.

Global Rescue provides medical, security, evacuation and travel risk management services to enterprises, governments and individuals. Founded in 2004, Global Rescue has exclusive relationships with the Johns Hopkins Emergency Medicine Division of Special Operations and Elite Medical Group. Global Rescue provides best-in-class services that identify, monitor and respond to client medical and security crises. Global Rescue has provided medical and security support to its clients, including Fortune 500 companies, governments and academic institutions, during every globally significant crisis of the last two decades. For more information, visit www.globalrescue.com.

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Active Travel, Adventure Travel, health and wellness travel, wellness-spa travel

Outdoor Adventure Trips With Natural Transformational Power

April 22, 2025 MoralCompass

MOAB, UT – April 22, 2025 – As travelers seek more meaningful escapes from their hyper-connected lives, Moab Adventure Center is offering a rare opportunity to truly unplug and recharge in some of the most remote and beautiful canyons in North America. Through multi-day rafting expeditions in Cataract Canyon and Desolation Canyon, guests trade screens and stress for star-filled skies, adrenaline-pumping rapids and deep connection — with nature, others and themselves.

A growing body of research shows the benefits of digital detox travel:

A 2025 Hilton Trends Report found that 24% of travelers now prioritize disconnecting from social media during vacations.
A recent University of Texas study revealed that 91% of participants who blocked internet access reported better mental health and focus.
A Cureus journal analysis confirmed that unplugging leads to reduced anxiety and depression symptoms, especially among young adults.

“These trips don’t just take you off the grid—they help reset your sense of time and perspective,” says Kam Wixom, Marketing Director at Moab Adventure Center. “In a few days, guests go from digital overload to genuine connection — with nature, their travel companions and even themselves.”

Why Multi-Day Rafting is the Ultimate Reset

Explore hidden waterfalls, petroglyphs and side canyons unreachable by foot, accessible only by the river
Experience the power of the Colorado and Green Rivers through rollicking whitewater rapids
Sleep under a canopy of stars in true wilderness — no screens, no cell service, just dark sky
Let experienced guides handle all the logistics, safety and storytelling, leaving participants to relax and enjoy
Build lasting camaraderie through shared adventure and unplugged conversation

Whether it is a family seeking quality time, a couple looking for reconnection or a solo traveler craving mental clarity, these journeys offer more than just adventure — they offer restoration.

Featured Multi-Day Expeditions

Cataract Canyon 4-Day Classic – A fully guided rafting expedition through Canyonlands National Park from May to September. Guests experience legendary whitewater, riverside camping and immersive canyon exploration. More Info
Cataract Canyon 2-Day Express – From May through July, high-speed custom rafts take guests 100 miles through Cataract Canyon in just two unforgettable days — ideal for shorter getaways. More Info
Desolation Canyon 5-Day Family Rafting Trip – Carved by an ancient inland sea, this Green River experience features playful rapids, rich geology and ideal conditions for families with children ages five and up. Available May to September. More Info
Southwest Sampler Package – A 4-day Moab-based adventure combining two days of rafting with an off-road Hummer Safari and deluxe camping. Includes lodging and access to Arches National Park. More Info

Named one of Newsweek’s Best Whitewater Rafting companies in the U.S. (April 2025) and winner of Utah’s Best of State Award for 21 consecutive years, Moab Adventure Center is the region’s premier provider of guided outdoor experiences. A division of Western River Expeditions, the company offers rafting, hiking, off-roading, canyoneering, all based in the red rock paradise of Moab, Utah.

To explore trip options or book a digital detox adventure, visit www.moabadventurecenter.com or call (435) 259-7019 / (866) 904-1163.

Adventure Travel, Cultural Travel, ecotourism, Historic Places, Nature & Wildlife, noctourism, Uncategorized

Active England’s Noctourism Adventure Spotlighted During International Dark Sky Week

April 15, 2025 MoralCompass

Nestled in the rugged northeast of England, Northumberland is a land of untamed beauty, rich history, and some of the darkest skies in Europe. Just 3 hours by train from London, Active England is offering a noctourism adventure into the unspoiled wilderness of Kielder Forest and the crown jewel of the Northumberland International Dark Sky Park, the largest in the UK (photo: Active England)

International Dark Sky Week (April 21–28, 2025) is an ideal time to spotlight the growing global trend of noctourism—travel experiences that embrace the beauty, serenity, and ecological importance of the night. With artificial light increasingly encroaching on our skies, travelers are seeking out destinations where darkness still reigns, offering unforgettable moments under the stars.

One standout is Active England’s Five-Day Celestial Journey Through Northern England, a luxurious, guided adventure through Northumberland, home to some of the darkest skies in Europe. Timed perfectly with the celestial calendar, the experience blends history and stargazing, from walking Hadrian’s Wall at golden hour to private access at the Kielder Observatory. Travelers can dine by firelight in a treetop restaurant, participate in a forest sound bath, and witness the Milky Way in all its glory—no filters, no crowds, just pure night magic.

Led by a local expert guide, this bespoke adventure blends celestial wonders with rich history—from exploring Hadrian’s Wall at sunset to visiting the mystical Holy Island, only accessible during low tide. As night falls, immerse yourself in the starlit serenity of Kielder Forest, home to the UK’s largest Dark Sky Park. Enjoy exclusive access to Kielder Observatory, where expert astronomers guide you through a dazzling display of the Milky Way, distant galaxies, and meteor showers. Dine among the treetops at Alnwick Treehouse Restaurant, where twinkling lights and a roaring fire create an enchanting atmosphere, and unwind with a sound bath in the forest, letting ancient vibrations soothe your soul under the night sky. Designed for stargazers and night wanderers, this Active England experience is a truly magical escape into the wonders of the dark.

Beyond the stars, Northumberland enchants visitors with dramatic coastlines, medieval castles, and Roman ruins, including the legendary Hadrian’s Wall.

This five-day journey, just 3 hours by train from London, soaks in the charm of Northern England, connecting you with nature and offering a unique celestial experience.

On Day 1, walk or cycle alongside Hadrian’s Wall, uncovering the secrets of Roman Britain at Vindolanda Fort, a fascinating archaeological site filled with ancient artifacts. For movie buffs and nature lovers, the iconic Sycamore Gap, featured in Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves, offers an awe-inspiring hike through vast open moorland.

On Day 2, a scenic drive north to Alnwick, home to the spectacular Alnwick Castle, famously featured in the Harry Potter films, to explore this grand fortress, which has stood for over 950 years and is a fine example of a Norman castle. The afternoon takes a literary turn with a visit to Barter Books, a quirky and beloved bookshop inside Alnwick railway station.

Highlights of Day 3 include a trip to Bamburgh, where a mighty castle stands proudly on the shores of the Northumberland coast. Just offshore lies Lindisfarne (Holy Island) an ancient place of pilgrimage and the first known Christian settlement in England. Accessible only during low tide via a causeway, this mystical island is home to rare wildlife, medieval ruins, and a serene atmosphere that feels worlds away from modern life.

Day 4 is all about Dark Sky, venturing deep into Kielder Forest. As night falls, head to Kielder Observatory, where a private stargazing experience awaits. Gaze through powerful telescopes at distant galaxies, witness shooting stars, and lose yourself in the vastness of the universe. Objects such as  Messier 33, a galaxy deemed by many to be invisible to the naked eye, can be clearly seen from the Observatory site on moonless nights.

Day 5 offers an optional visit to the Kielder Planetarium for another talk with astronomers.

Feeling adventurous? Scotland is just a stone’s throw away! With Edinburgh a short two-hour drive from Kielder, why not continue your journey into the wild, untamed beauty of the Scottish Highlands?

There are plenty of options to continue a starry skied adventure with Lochside luxury wilderness lodging or a visit to The Royal Observatory in Edinburgh for one of the many astronomy events that occur throughout the year.

For more information, +1 844 201 8622 (US Toll-Free),support@activeenglandtours.com, activeenglandtours.com.

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Active Travel, Adventure Travel

Western River Expeditions’ Cataract Canyon Rafting Trips Now Include Newly Exposed ‘Gypsum Rapid’

April 1, 2025 MoralCompass

Western River Expeditions, one of the nation’s premier river outfitters, reports that its Cataract Canyon rafting trips now include a brand-new, Class IV rapid—unofficially dubbed “Gypsum Rapid”—along with an estimated three miles of newly revealed river that had been buried under Lake Powell since the 1960s.

SALT LAKE CITY, UT– When reservoirs recede, they don’t just expose old roads, forgotten villages or rusted-out cars. They reveal history. And in this case, they create new adventures.

As the long-standing drought continues to shrink Lake Powell, the Colorado River is reclaiming its natural course, unveiling whitewater rapids that have been submerged for decades. This transformation is thrilling news for rafters. Western River Expeditions, one of the nation’s premier river outfitters, reports that its Cataract Canyon rafting trips now include a brand-new, Class IV rapid—unofficially dubbed “Gypsum Rapid”—along with an estimated three miles of newly revealed river that had been buried under Lake Powell since the 1960s.

“As guides scouted this new rapid before running it, there was a mix of caution, respect, and pure wonderment,” says Carter Lloyd, a former river guide with Western River Expeditions.

The rapid reemerged as Lake Powell’s water levels dropped to lows not seen in decades. When the Glen Canyon Dam was completed in 1963, 186 miles of the Colorado River were flooded to create the reservoir. By 1980, the lake was at full capacity. Now, as water recedes, lost rapids like Gypsum are coming back to life.

“We expect to see even more old rapids re-emerge in the coming years as Lake Powell continues to recede,” says Brian Merrill, CEO of Western River Expeditions.

Cataract Canyon, carved by the confluence of the Green and Colorado Rivers just south of Moab, Utah, offers a 100-plus-mile-long adventure filled with diverse landscapes, rich history and exhilarating whitewater rapids. Often hailed as America’s premier river trip, Cataract Canyon combines the thrill of class III-V whitewater with the serenity of breathtaking desert landscapes, ancient ruins and the timeless flow of the river.

Western River Expeditions offers two distinct ways to experience Cataract Canyon:

Cataract Canyon Express 2-Day Adventure

$965 per person (Adults and Youth 12+)
Experience the power of the Colorado River as you navigate through class III-V rapids aboard high-speed, custom rafts. This two-day adventure is perfect for those seeking maximum thrills in minimal time.
Cataract Canyon Express 2-Day Adventure

Cataract Canyon 4-Day Expedition

$1,975 for adults, $1,445 for youth (10-15)
Immerse yourself in the beauty and serenity of Canyonlands National Park over four days. Enjoy leisurely rafting, explore hidden waterfalls and ancient ruins, and camp under the stars. The adventure concludes with a scenic flight over Canyonlands National Park.
Cataract Canyon 4-Day Expedition

To book a trip, request a catalog or more information, call 866-904-1160 (Local: 801-942-6669) or visit the website at www.westernriver.com.

Since 1961, Western River Expeditions has been at the forefront of adventure travel, offering guided rafting trips across Utah, Idaho, Oregon, and Arizona. As one of the largest licensed outfitters in the Grand Canyon and a leading tour provider in Moab, UT, through its division Moab Adventure Center, Western River has earned accolades as one of the top rafting companies in the U.S. The company has also been awarded Utah’s Best of State honor for 21 consecutive years (2004-2024).

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Active Travel, Adventure Travel, hiking, National Parks, Uncategorized

Moab Adventure Center Gears Up for Another Active Season at Arches National Park

April 1, 2025 MoralCompass

*Arches National Park is nearly 77,000 acres of unique geological resources and formations unlike anywhere else in the world © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

MOAB, UT- Moab Adventure Center, the go-to-hub for all things active in the Arches National Park region, is gearing up for what it predicts will be a bumper crop of visitors clamoring to pack in as much fun as possible in a landscape far removed from anything they’ve seen before.

“Getting up close and personal with Arches National Park is a must for anyone looking for out-of-the-box adventures in 2025,” says Kam Wixom, Marketing Director. “For those who want more from a getaway, think Arches National Park, nearly 77,000 acres of unique geological resources and formations unlike anywhere else in the world!”

These iconic acres encompass:

A myriad of outdoor activities: canyoneering, hiking, rock climbing, off roading, mountain biking and whitewater rafting through the intense red rock landscape surrounded by the Utah desert.
- Endless hiking opportunities to explore and discover the unusual topography of Arches National Park. Most trailheads are located a short distance from parking lots and pull-overs. The hikes and trails within the park vary in length and difficulty based on terrain.
- So many sights and wonders you could never have imagined: With 150 million years of natural development, Arches National Park has more than 2,000 arches (more than anywhere else in the world). The help of a tour guide is recommended to make your way through these astounding geological formations. Ranger programs through the National Park Service allow visitors to get a look at some of the greatest landmarks within the park at different hours of the day.

Among the not-to-miss guided adventures while in Moab that are offered year-round:

Sunset Discovery Tour: This 4-hour, guided tour leads visitors through the Park by custom bus or Sprinter Van equipped with extra wide windows for premium viewing during the most colorful time of day. Up to an hour’s worth of short, scenic hikes are part of the experience. The per person rate is $114; $93 ages 5-12. Please see https://www.moabadventurecenter.com/arches-national-park-tours-sunset
- Arches National Park Tour/ Morning Adventure: This 4-hour, guided shuttle tour encompasses the entire length of the Park. Snacks, water and Park entrance fees are included. The per person rate is $114; $93 ages 5-12. Please see https://www.moabadventurecenter.com/arches-national-park-tours-morning
- Arches National Park Scenic Flight Airplane Tour: This 30-minute tour offers a birds-eye view of this unique and unforgettable landscape. Guests have window seats and are equipped with flight headsets to hear the narrative from the pilot. The per person rate is $208; $183 ages 3-12 (infants and toddlers travel free). Please see https://www.moabadventurecenter.com/arches-national-park-air-tours

Important Information for 2025: Visitors who plan to visit the park from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 1 through July 5 and Aug. 28-through Oct. 31, 2025, need to obtain timed entry tickets in addition to a park pass OR entrance fee. Visitors may enter the park before 7 a.m. or after 4 p.m. from July 7 through Aug. 27, 2025, without a timed entry ticket. Please see https://www.nps.gov/arch/planyourvisit/timed-entry-reservation.htm

In response to feedback from stakeholders and the general public, Arches National Park has changed its 2025 timed entry reservation system to accept reservations up to six months in advance—twice as long as previously allowed. Please see https://www.nps.gov/arch/learn/news/news12192025.htm

“However, the good news is that no advance permit is required if visitors book a commercial park tour through Moab Adventure Center,” notes Wixom. (See https://www.moabadventurecenter.com/arches-national-park-tours)

Recently named one of the top adventure travel companies in the U.S. by Newsweek Magazine (April 2024), Moab Adventure Center has also been honored with the Best of State Award for 21 consecutive years, a testament to its excellence in adventure tourism. Moab Adventure Center offers a diverse range of outdoor activities, including rafting, jet boating, paddleboarding, hiking, mountain biking, hot air ballooning, Hummer safaris, rock climbing, canyoneering, and horseback riding.

Moab Adventure Center is a division of Western River Expeditions, the largest tour operator in Moab, Utah. The Adventure Center is located at 225 South Main St., Moab, UT. For more information and reservations, call (435) 259-7019 or (866) 904-1163, or visit www.moabadventurecenter.com.

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