The Jumbotron was bellowing “T -6, 5, 4…” when suddenly the sky ahead burst into flames. We were on the shore of Banana Creek, about 4 miles from Cape Canaveral’s Launchpad 39A. The inferno was the SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket launching a Crew Dragon spacecraft to the International Space Station.
“Watch, don’t listen,” came from our NASA host.
The live stream from SpaceX Mission Control in Hawthorne, California, was 3 seconds behind reality at the Kennedy Space Center (KSC) viewing event in Florida. And, our host warned, the tremendous roar of the rocket’s liftoff would be another 4 seconds behind that blinding sight.
We were mesmerized, and that was a few years ago. Think how much progress has been made since 2019.
We have joined the whole world going crazy about Mars. Did you catch the United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket propelling the Perseverance Rover to Mars on July 30, 2020? Did you hold your breath as Perseverance touched down in Mars’ Jezero Crater on Feb. 18, 2021? Do you follow the astonishing discoveries being made by the James Webb Space Telescope?
If your family is into outer space, follow these entire missions online. Ingenuity, the tiny drone-like helicopter transported aboard Perseverance, is making brief reconnaissance flights above the Martian surface. This NASA mission stars in its own streaming TV show on the NASA website.
It’s time to watch some rocket launches
While eyes were focused on Mars, however, NASA had taken on commercial partners like SpaceX (of Elon Musk fame) and Blue Origin (of Jeff Bezos fame.) Launch frequency has increased because private companies and government missions are both doing rocket launches from various sites.
Take advantage of more opportunities than ever to see rocket launches at Cape Canaveral and Vandenberg Air Force Base in California.
Spaceport America, New Mexico, is the country’s first airport for commercial passenger spacecraft. Head to Truth or Consequences or Las Cruces to watch as manned, sub-orbital Virgin Galactic flights aboard the spaceship Unity take off starting in early 2022.
With a new generation of rockets using powerful super fuels, space buffs don’t need to buy tickets to most viewing events. You can pull up a lawn chair and watch spectacular live launches from miles away.
It just takes planning, timing and luck as – no matter how far in advance you plan – a scheduled launch window may close without a rocket going up. The risk of a scrub is part of the thrill.
Kennedy Space Center Visitor Center, Florida
Seeing rocket launches are most likely to happen at the Kennedy Space Center (KSC), the launch site for more than 30 NASA and U.S. Air Force missions annually. Because a live launch is so thrilling, we found having expert guidance — as we did at KSC — made it even more engaging for all ages.
Fortunately, go or no go, the KSC Visitors Center is a fascinating introduction to outer space, where man has been and hopes to go. Put it on your bucket list and plan your visit around a launch.
Why a rocket launch and why now?
KSC provides context to understand the enormity of any space effort. It was July 20, 1969, when Apollo 11 astronaut Armstrong descended the steps of a lunar probe, set his boot upon the moon’s surface, and announced, “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.”
During the seven years spent growing the Apollo program, more than 400,000 people worked full-time to put a man on the moon because then-president John F. Kennedy declared it would be so.
And more than 50 years on, a “moonshot” is still a big deal, at KSC. Look at the impact it had around the world, from products to imagination as featured in the top 50 ways to commemorate the moon landing.
The Apollo / Saturn V Apollo Center
Please start your visit to KSC first thing in the morning with the bus tour, which has reopened with local safety protocols. Your guide will point out the launchpads, Mission Control building, working NASA facilities, and commercial operators such as SpaceX, Boeing, and Blue Origin.
The tour is the only way to see the huge VAB Vehicle Assembly Building – so large that clouds form inside when it’s raining. In the imposing Apollo/Saturn V Center hangar, understand the impact the moon landing had on our world and worldview. The enormous Saturn V rocket that made space exploration possible hangs above memorabilia of all Apollo missions, including Apollo 11.
Kids love this place even without a rocket launch
At KSC, the multimedia displays make the history of space exploration accessible to kids and their grown-ups.
Expect guided tours, options to try flight simulators, and educational activities all around the facility, some for additional fees. If you’re a kid, KSC also runs Space Camps and regular sleepovers, when ages 7 to 14 can choose between sleeping under the Space Shuttle Atlantis or the Apollo/Saturn V rocket.
Ogle rockets and debrief astronauts at KSC
Admire the KSC wing, Heroes and Legends, which introduces visitors to astronauts who made the early space missions possible.
Pause at the Rocket Garden to see several different rockets that propelled people and cargo into space. Stand in the shadows of a Mercury-Redstone, Gemini-Titan and Saturn IB rocket among others. Frequent tours add context to each spent rocket. Just this month, a United Launch Alliance (ULA) Delta II rocket joined the impressive display. Between 1989-2009, the Delta II successfully deployed four dozen spacecraft to assemble and maintain an entire fleet of GPS satellites, launching from both KSC and California’s Vandenberg Air Force Base. The GPS network made possible by the Delta II revolutionized modern navigation on Earth.
Why not have Lunch with an Astronaut (separate admission)? On our visit, the unflappable Astronaut Winston Scott, who had flown two missions on the Space Shuttle after retiring as an Air Force test pilot, did the Q&A with diners. Ever wondered, like a little boy at our table did, how you make a poop without gravity? Scott’s candor and humor, both personally and in his professional stories, was a highlight of the visit. The buffet lunch was pretty good, too.
Need a selection of best price hotels? Check out Booking.com.
Feel the rocket’s red glare
Another high point is the KSC Shuttle Launch Experience. This Atlantis Space Shuttle wing simulator attraction was developed to help astronauts train for the physical stresses of sitting atop a rocket launch.
Pry yourself out of your harness when it’s over, and you’ll understand where that expression of having your stomach in your throat comes from…. Within the enormous orange Space Shuttle Atlantis building, visitors can see Atlantis suspended from the ceiling, so close that you can’t get it all in one photo, even in panorama mode.
Mars and what’s next in space?
See a Boeing Starliner and a SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft. These are just two examples of how the commercial space industry has begun transporting astronauts and payloads to the International Space Station (ISS). That’s the kind of spacecraft your kids will travel in.
Then, there’s Mars, the new frontier for exploration. The red planet is much farther away than the Moon or the ISS. Yet KSC has fascinating exhibits about Mars already. A Mars Rover and several exhibits about Mars at KSC focus visitors’ attention on the direction that most interests NASA – Mars.
Don’t miss learning more about Space
The space industry operates in strange and mysterious ways, and a Kennedy Space Center viewing event is guaranteed to give you a taste.
As mentioned, Vandenberg Air Force Base in Lompoc, California, is also a spaceport and rocket testing range. Watch a launch to appreciate how rockets can fall into the sea in case of a failed liftoff. There are few public tours of its facility or the cool-sounding Space and Missile Heritage Center, but locals say catching a rocket launch from a distance is possible.
Spaceport America tours are organized by the tourism department for Las Cruces, a city about 50 miles from El Paso, Texas. It’s the closest urban center to Spaceport America, although tours are sometimes offered from tiny Truth or Consequences. Head to New Mexico to check out past alien landings and other space-related sights.
Tips and Recommendations for Watching Rocket Launches
- Arrive Early: Plan to arrive well before the scheduled launch time. Traffic and security checks can lead to delays, so ensure you have enough time to find a good viewing spot.
- Bring Essentials: Pack water, snacks, sunscreen, and insect repellent. You may be waiting for an extended period, so staying comfortable is crucial.
- Check the Weather: Monitor the weather forecast for the launch day. Clear skies are essential for a good view, so consider a backup date if the weather looks unfavorable.
- Bring Binoculars or a Telescope: Consider bringing binoculars or a telescope to get a closer look at the launch and rocket. Some launch sites offer designated viewing areas with telescopes for public use.
- Know the Launch Window: Be aware of the launch window, which is the timeframe for the launch. It’s not always an exact time, so be prepared to wait if necessary.
- Respect Safety Rules: Follow all safety guidelines and instructions from authorities. There may be restricted areas and safety measures in place.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) About Where to See a Rocket Launch
Where can I watch rocket launches?
You can watch rocket launches from various locations depending on the launch site. Popular spots include Kennedy Space Center in Florida, Cape Canaveral Space Launch Complex, and Vandenberg Space Force Base in California.
Can I watch rocket launches online?
Yes, many space agencies and organizations live-stream rocket launches on their websites and social media platforms, allowing you to watch from anywhere with an internet connection.
Are there any fees to watch a rocket launch in person?
Some viewing areas near launch sites may require paid tickets or admission fees. Check with the specific launch site for details.
What is the best time to see a rocket launch?
The best time to see a rocket launch depends on the launch schedule and location. It’s essential to check the launch date and time for the specific rocket you want to see.
Can I take photographs during a rocket launch?
Yes, you can take photographs during a rocket launch, but follow any rules or guidelines the authorities provide. Consider using a camera with manual settings for better results.
Are there any age restrictions for attending rocket launches?
Most rocket launches are open to all ages. However, be prepared for long wait times and ensure that young children are comfortable with the experience.
What should I do in case of a launch delay or cancellation?
Launch delays and cancellations can occur due to various reasons. Stay informed through official sources, and consider having a backup plan for your visit or rescheduling your trip.
If this helped you learn where to see a rocket launch, consider checking out these other articles below –
- The Rocket City, Where “Everyone Can Be an Astronaut for a Day”: Huntsville, Alabama
- 50 Cosmic Ways To Celebrate Space – My Family Travels
- Becoming An Astronaut On Cape Canaveral – My Family Travels
- Tiny Astronauts Touch Down In Florida
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On January 15, 2015, Google announced that it would stop selling the Google Glass product to consumers — who became its “Explorers” — while it makes more improvements to the technology and hardware. Simultaneously, the product will move from its test phase at Google X and become its own department within the giant technology company.
For complete details, please see this story: Google Glass Sales Halted.
This is a great summary of emerging family travel trends in 2015. I am very excited to see ecotourism evolving to include the youngest travelers as well as multi-gen travelers. Very interesting to see uber attempt to dig into the family market. As for all-inclusive hotels, after years of resisiting, I am finally a convert. My kids have always loved them and now their parents finally see the ease and economy of the pay-one-price concept. Happy Travels in 2015!
great feedback on what we’re seeing for 2015; agree that ecotourism has become so mainstream that it’s time all ages and all abilities (including those with disabilities) are included in nature-focused travel.
And yes, disruptive technologies like uber and airbnb are usually started by young people and grow by appealing to young travelers, but as we all know, they too will settle down and have kids and then look at new ways to make their services more “family-friendly.” So that’s an area where we see tremendous growth potential and hope for fresh ideas.
excited about what’s coming in 2015! Thanks for your comments.
I’m in, would love to win a stay at the Camelback water park in Pennsylvania. Close to my NJ home and sounds like a fun snowy or rainy day break with my boys. Sign me up!
After returning from a vacation with her daughter, C.S. shared this review of the Dreams Punta Cana resort in the Dominican Republic.
“Hi, we did not get sick at Dreams Punta Cana, stuck to bottled water, they were nice there not really attentive at concierge or lobby not knowledgeable and internet not working well, entertainment was okay and food just okay beach nice, tours not organized very well for swim with dolphins and no shopping for malls provided.
Yes the food was not great at all, hoping for better at gourmet restaurants, they always burnt the steak and not great the food, the world café was fine, buffet.
Kids club for my 8 year old she was bored, most of the kids were younger and not a lot to do for the 8 to 9 year olds, riviera maya dreams does a better job with kids club and takes them out to the real pool for kid games that is always nice.
I like Riviera Maya Mexico still a lot better.”
“The Singing Tower.” Bok Towers Gardens. N.p., n.d. Web. 10 July 2014.
The Vera Bradley outlet sale sounds like a midwestern version on Filene’s Running of the Brides! It sounds like a paisley lovers dream and a fun Mother/Daughter bonding event. Thanks for sharing!
How’s the weather up there now? Would it be warm enough to swim outdoors in late April, or still chilly? Seems like a fun spring break getaway since we only have a few days. Thanks for sharing.
I love Rocky Mountain National park! It’s great for all Colorado seasons. In the winter, when other parts of the park are closed down, they open up sledding areas. When I went, we shared the hill with just one other small group. A great afternoon for all ages!
In spite of all the cold weather we have been experiencing, this story makes me want to head up to Montreal for a frosty weekend of fun. The Montreal en Lumiere festival sounds like a winner, as does the hotel. Thank you for the terrific seasonal suggestions!
Skiing is such a wonderful way to experience Colorado’s beauty! There is such pride in that state and I love that so many resorts really cater to children too.
Eldora Mountain Resort wasn’t mentioned on this list, but on Saturday, March 8, they are hosting a scavenger hunt to raise money for Leave No Trace, an organization dedicated to teaching people to take care of the world around them, while also having fun. How awesome is that?! Can’t wait to hear more about it.
This is an excellent article. Well researched, thoughtful and motivating. I know as a parent right now considering a family cruise this Spring Break in March, kids drowning will be on my mind even though my son is on a swim team and swims two miles five nights a week for practice. Drowning can happen to anyone, any time, at any age. As a former swim instructor and lifeguard myself for many years to earn summr spending money and put myself through college, I know how water is dangerous — whether in a pool, lake, baeach or bathtub. But we all need reminding and education about what drowning looks like. And that is what you’ve done for me today. Thank you.
As a teen life guard, I saved a kid at our local pool who was “just floating.” It was a crowded pool on a sticky, hot Midwest day. A swimmer in the middle of the packed giant kids’ pool started yelling at me and pointing to the child “floating.” I’ll never forget doing mouth-to-mouth, his wide vacant eyes, his limp body, and then him catapulting upwards, spitting, sputtering to life. I tear up as I write this. What if he hadn’t lived? The guilt, the fright, the parents, the park district, the system…who to blame if the child had died? Would I be blamed for not seeing him inactive sooner? Would the pool be blamed for allowing too many people in? Would the park district be blamed for booking the swimming event? Did anything change after this incident? Yes. I got fired. And went to work for another pool heading up their swimming lessons program.
Thank you for writing this and your call to action for everyone to take responsibility for children around water at all hours of the day and night. Your “unthinkable” article has given us all much to think about.
Would be a fun vacation if you could really save money by doing it too!
What an adventure, I would love to do embark on a journey like this with my teens. The flora and fauna seem incredible, the guides professional. Thank you for sharing!
We’ve heard the Boeing factory tour is really interesting – wondering now if there any exhibits or parts areas that relate to the new Dreamliner. Would love to see one up close, especially being assembled after all the battery snafus.
Wish we all could have been there, Morocco looks fabulous and during the winter it would be a very productive coder’s retreat.
Congratulations to ALL of the students who entered in the FTF Writing Scholarship contest :3 Of course a big "congrats" should be merited to our winners, but I think every student who entered deserves a pat on the back–hopefully they'll be inspired to continue writing, too!
This sounds like a great resort for my all-inlusive loving teen children, who have a " bigger is better" attitude. I love that it is so close to the Cancun Airport, so you can get right to the fun as soon as you land.
I love the idea that guests at the hotel can "assemble" their own favorite meals from a variety of healthy offerings. Sounds like a great idea. If only I had time to cook so many different options every night at home!
This looks like a fascinating experience to remember and to go too! I have always wanted to go to Dubai and going there is a vacation never to forget!
Enjoy
One of the best states to come visit!
You make me want to go there and spend weeks on end, reconnecting with nature and making friends. And blobbing too. Thanks for sharing this.
Cincinnati, Ohio. Just another city in the Mid-West, right? Wrong. Cincinnati is one of the greatest cities in Ohio. With our stunning river front view, our bustling downtown, and the newly gentrified Over-the-Rhine, what else could we have in store?
For starters, Cincinnati has the 7th best zoo in the nation.Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Gardens is a great location for exploration and learning. People of all ages can appreciate the wide variety of animals found in the Zoo. Not only are the animals astounding, but guests get the chance for a hands on experience with many of the animals. For example, in Giraffe Ridge, guests can purchase a snack for the Giraffes and then feed them over the balcony. These moments will be remembered and cherished for the rest of a person's life.
Another great accessory Cincinnati has is the new, urban planned area called "The Banks. The Banks features apartments on the second floor of the buildings and restaurants and music venues on the first floor. This is a great area for younger couples to hang out at night.
Findlay Market is a wonderful way to spend an afternoon or weekend. Findlay Market is the oldest public market in the state of Ohio. The market is open every day but Monday and is one of the best places to find locally and organically grown foods. Another great feature about Findlay Market is that the area surrounding the market is newly gentrified, meaning that it has been refurbished. This makes the area even more desirable.
The Newport Aquarium</a>is not located in the city of Cincinnati itself but it is an awesome place for family fun. Newport, Kentucky is only a 10 minute drive from downtown Cincinnati and has other amenities. Other places to visit while in Newport would be Dewey's Pizza, Brothers, Brio, and the Haufbrau House. All these restaurants give a different essence to the name "Cincinnati". Dewey's is a local pizza joint that runs the gamut in available options. Clever names and quick service make for a great time. Brothers and Brio are Italian restaurants that serve authentic Italian cuisine (Brothers is the less expensive option). The Haufbrau House is a German Bier Garten style restaurant that offers a large selection of beers and sandwiches. Along with normal options, the HaufBrau House also provides authentic German food. After you eat, the chicken dance is played, giving patrons the opportunity to dance on the table tops.
Other Cincinnati food traditions are Goetta and Skyline. When German immigrants came over to America, they settled along the Ohio River, then called the "Rhine". The Germans created a meat similar to sausage called Goetta. Goetta consists of ground pork or beef, oats, and a variety of spices. This specific meat can only be found in Cincinnati and occasionally there are large festivals for Goetta and German heritage. On the other hand Skyline is chili, created by Greek immigrants. The name "Skyline" originates from the owner believing that the Cincinnati skyline was the most beautiful he had ever seen. Skyline chili has a unique flavor due to the large amount of chocolate used in the chili.
Come one come all! Memphis is the breeding grounds to fun and adventure!
I truly love my City of Houston. Though I don't know where my education will take me, Houston will always be my home.
Austin is a great place to live, love, and visit. It has wonderful sites, people, and things to do. Everybody should visit Austin.
Say what you will. An open mind is insightful.
Thank you for this spot-on mini-review of Greve and Panzano, two of the most scenic and charming towns in Chianti. Daniel Ferro's summer music program only adds to the area's beauty, with music in the piazza to entertain locals and visitors alike. The rental property sounds like an excellent choice for families who choose to vacation in and explore the area. Thanks for sharing!
Ames, Iowa provides many opportunities to experience American culture and become immersed in American history. Since the mid 1800s, Ames has become a booming college town. Culture has had lots of time to flourish in this time, and evidence of the age of this town can be found everywhere. Tourists coming to Ames can also feel safe and enjoy Ames' attractions without fear of crime. Gun fights in Ames are practically unheard of, and the friendly people never hesitate to wave, even at newcomers to the area. Any tourist can appreciate the age and personality of Ames, as well as its safety.
To experience the culture in Ames, tourists must visit Stephen's Auditorium on Iowa State University's campus. This theater hosts a variety of concerts, plays, musicals, and other theatrical performances. Comfortable seating and awesome acoustics make this location a worthy contender for a relaxing night out. Big acts such as Bill Nye the Science Guy and the band Needtobreathe have to known to reserve this venue so one feels included in a special and popular event, but the space does not have an overwhelming size, so overcrowding and overheating will not deduct from the experience. Stephen's Auditorium will help in discovering the culture of Ames.
Tourists wishing to discover some of Ames' culture would greatly benefit from attending Ames' Farmer's Market on Saturdays on Main Street. Vendors have local and homegrown produce, meat, eggs, pastries, jewelry, art and many other items for sale that offer a taste of Iowan culture. Musicians often perform for shoppers, so they can be entertained while shopping. Ames' Farmer's Market provides an excellent opportunity to experience the culture of Ames and Iowa.
Evidence of Ames' history can be found in a visit to Iowa State University's campus. Founded in 1858, Iowa State University was the sight where George Washington Carver decided to do much of his botany research. Visitors to the college will see evidence of the age of this college in the buildings from this era that still exist. Iowa State University also housed the master minds who created the first computer. Tourists to Ames can take a trip to Durham Center in Iowa State and view the replica of this first computer. Main Street offers a taste of history also. The buildings in this area of Ames give a taste of what architecture looked like back in the early 20th century. A mural on Main Street depicts some of the founders of Ames. History holds great importance in Ames, and tourists can experience this without too much trouble.
To curb tourist's hunger, Ames offers many excellent places for dining. No tourist should visit Ames without eating at Hickory Park. This restaurant is famous not only for its deliciously moist chicken but also its tangy barbecue sandwiches. After the main meal, enjoy sweet and creamy ice cream. Dublin Bay offers wonderful Irish cuisine for tourists to enjoy. Try the moist Shepherd's Pie with perfectly salted fries for contentment. For fans of Mexican food, El Azteca guarantees friendly service, free chips, and delectably flavorful food. Many restaurants with amiable service and food that delights the taste buds are available for hungry tourists.
Though a relatively small town, Ames offers visitors a chance to learn about the history and culture of not only Ames, but the state of Iowa without fear of crime. Numerous attractions exist for this purpose. Visitors can also talk to the mayor of Ames, Ann Campbell, about the culture of history of Ames. City council members happily will answer questions from tourists. Tourists will not be sorry for visiting this town.
Northern Nevada never stops to amaze.
Sunday River has been on my radar for a potential family ski trip for quite a while. This story is so loaded with good information, it seems like it is worth the extra time spent in the car to ski at such an excellent family resort. Thanks!
Wow, this sounds likea great merging of chocolate and history, two of my favorite subjects.
I am looking forward to experiencing this for myself, thank you for the informative post.
I love this post so much! I hope I will come here one day!
This is a terrific article that I am so glad to have read. I didn't know there was a car-free way to appreciate the beauty of the Grand Canyon. Sounds like a fun, scenic and eco-friendly option.
Your essay moved me to tears. I am also a finalist in the scholarship and I wrote about visiting Poland’s concentration camps. I would love your opinion on my essay.
I wrote this essay hoping to bring people closer to understanding, as close to understanding as we can get. I want to share an experience that had an impact on me. This trip truly changed me, and what I want do with my life. I suggest if you have the means or are able to visit Poland or go on March of the Living. I know there are teen and family trips with BBYO.
Thank you so much for what you said. I truly appreciate what you said. I also visited the picture of your family. Your family is beautiful and I am so glad that they were able to make it through such a devastating time.
I loved reading about your romantic return to what sounds like a beatiful and vibrant island. Thanks for sharing some of its treasures.
This is a great story, thank you for sharing the glories of Octoberfest in lesser known Nerumberg. My mouth was atering reading about all of the regional delicacies that accompany the beer!
Oh goodness, this is so sad! Thanks for sharing all of this information, a lot of these things I did not know until just now. We're taught about the Holocaust at school, but I'm sure that there is nothing like actually being at a concentration camp to understand how it actually was. Thanks for sharing.
wow! This sounds like such a wonderful experience. I'm sure it was very enlightening, and it really makes me happy to read that last paragraph. I think it's beautiful that you see things that way, and I hope to some day personally come to that realization through my own experiences. Thanks so much for sharing this.
Hi Debbie,
You will want he Medical Authorization Form from each child's parents with a photocopy of their insurance card.
Then you can use the last form which is for group tours, school outings etc. It is fine for domestic travel, Include travel info for each child so that parents assign you guardianship for certain period of time only.
Get these forms notarized. Make several photocopies in case an adventure tour operator wants to keep one. Or, if you all travel on same flights, get one long form, like a petition, and be sure both of each child's parents or guardians sign it.
You should be fine with it. Does the hotel know? Many states say it is illegal for a minor to occupy a room without an adult present. You may need connecting rooms guaranteed.
Enjoy the trip and write about what you did!
JaguarZ writes to the Admin with a very good question:
I will be traveling to Hawaii, originating on the eastcoast, with 4 minors (only 1 is my child) – they will all be 17 at the time of travel. I need to be able to "act as their guardian" — for example, sign waiver forms for activities, seek medical coverage if necessary.
I found a form or two on the site, but they seem geared toward international travel and do not seem to include the ability to "sign the waiver forms" I mention above. Any suggestions? I realize I may be able to get some of these forms signed before we leave, BUT for those activities they decide on when we are there — H E L P!
Thank you so much for your anticipated support
Debbie
This is really incredible. It is a dream of mine to visit Alaska, and I hope that if I ever do get to go, that I can experience what you did. My dad and I are avid kayakers, so it was somewhat relatable, although I doubt that Miami waters are NEARLY as cool (haha) as those in Alaska.This truly sounds like the trip of a lifetime.
I wanted to add that I loved the way you described everything, it was so beautiful and real.
Aw, I'm so sorry that happened to your dad but I'm glad something good came out of it. My family was actually planning on going to Gatlinburg next summer but we're all way too chicken to do this white water rafting haha. Thanks for sharing this.
Thank you for sharing this! That sounds like a truly beautiful experience. I love the bit about never underestimating yourself the most, very true.
*2009 not 2008
This is about my trip to South Dakota.
This trip was indeed and enriching expreience.
If you copy and paste the URL at the bottom of the post into your browser, it will take you to a video clip of the event, and if you skip to the last 12 seconds of the video you will see myself and one of my good friends sprinting in to the finish. We ended up tieing for 9th place.