Reported by: Pam “the FAM Fan” with the Mesa Convention and Visitors Bureau
Looking for some family friendly fun in the Valley of the Sun? Then you simply have to take your family to Fort McDowell Adventures on Friday afternoon. This past Friday, the focus was on the Segway Desert Tour. The Segways were awaiting us upon arrival to Rosa’s Ranch at Fort McDowell Adventures.
This was so much more than 2 hours of Segway riding in the desert. Our guide, Captain Kirk (no kidding!) was there to challenge us in learning the skills that make riding a Segway safe and fun. Joining Curtis and I on this adventure were our two nephews Jorden (age 14) and Matthew (age 11). We were pleased to have them enjoy a picture perfect ride. Within 15 minutes, Captain Kirk had provided us with some initial dos and don’ts, and we were getting comfortable on our Segways in a cleared area. Then it was off to the desert in time to enjoy 2 hours and a beautiful sunset.
In addition to the joy of a comfortable Segway tour we had the treat of visiting with the “Nest Watchers” who are observing a new family of Bald Eagles raising one young fledgling this spring. These ladies were setup with long-range scopes and cameras and helped us to easily witness this family of Eagles about a ½ mile away. The documentation of this Eagle family is ongoing and a must see for your family. Be sure to ask your guide if the “Nest Watcher” is on duty when you book your family adventure. (Learn more about the Nest Watchers at ag.arizona.edu/swes/environmental_writing/stories/lewis.html.)
Not only is Captain Kirk a fun tour guide in the desert, he’s a fun photographer too! He doesn’t want his guests to be distracted with their cameras, but knows that part of the fun is having the adventure captured in digital. So… Our guide became our photographer snapping a photo here and there, and even setting up the perfect video at the end of our ride!
Upon returning to Rosa’s Ranch our host for the evening, Rick Cibik General Manager at Fort McDowell Adventures gave us a quick tour of Rosa’s Ranch. There are plenty of family fun games to play there at Rosa’s Ranch. There was the rope hoop toss, and horse shoes, and wagon rides through the desert. (And if you’re looking for adult fun – be sure to explore the Rum Bus Beach and the Tequila Bus. Perfect for small corporate events in the Southwest!
Rick quickly set us up with the evening fare of Hot Dogs or Brats, with chips and beverages. Jorden and Matt enjoyed grilling their Hot Dogs over the fire pit, and were especially pleased to grill marshmallows for S’Mores as dessert. What a great way to end the perfect family evening.
We will fondly remember this fun time with our nephews. Having raised our son, we know that kids grow up much too soon. Finding fun things to do that young men our nephews’ ages will also enjoy is a wonderful thing. Both Matthew and Jorden gave this adventure a big “Thumbs Up” and asked “when could we do this again!” Don’t miss this great opportunity to connect with the young people your life.
This Friday, February 24, is the City Slicker Cattle Drive adventure. Your family can also attend the Yavapai Experience and the Kayaking on the Verde Adventure. Contact Rick and his team to explore all your Family friendly opportunities. Be sure to tell Rick that Pam “the FAM Fan” at the Mesa Convention and Visitors Bureau sent you! (For more information FortMcDowellAdventures.com)
