RVing Tips Archives - Route 66 RV Network

Importance of RV Insurance

Posted on January 25, 2023 | by [email protected]

For many, their trailer or motorhome is their home away from home. It is important to take the proper steps toward protecting your investment by purchasing RV insurance. There are several benefits to having an RV insurance policy including protection, roadside assistance and more. We know insurance can be a daunting and difficult topic – we are here to make it simple for you!

What is RV Insurance?

RV Insurance protects you in the event that you are responsible for any damages or injuries and covers any associated costs with the damages to your own RV if an incident occurs. There are a few different coverages contingent on how your recreational vehicle is used, such as if your camper is your full-time residence or if you use it recreationally. Specific RV coverage also varies depending on what type of RV you have, motorized or towable.If you own a motorized recreational vehicle, coverage can be required. Whereas a towable may not require special RV insurance, depending on which state you live in. No matter what type of RV you own, it is always a good idea to be insured in the case of an unexpected accident.

What are the benefits of having RV insurance?

When deciding to purchase an RV insurance policy, all of the associated benefits and perks can be confusing. Depending on your particular insurance company, you might have the option to choose additional coverage options such as: total loss replacement coverage, vacation liability, towing and roadside coverage, uninsured and underinsured motorists coverage, and more. Three main benefits that come with having a specialized RV insurance plan include: asset protection, liability protection and roadside assistance.

Asset Protection

Recreational vehicles aren’t cheap no matter what type you purchase, and unfortunately, accidents happen. Natural threats like hail, fire and storms can compromise your investment and cause substantial damage. Having RV insurance can help cover the physical damage caused and save you additional out-of-pocket expenses. You will also find that some insurance policies have the option to add coverage for your personal belongings kept in your RV. Those who use their RV as a second home will find it essential to select a policy that covers personal belongings such as electronics, household items, clothes, and more.

Liability Protection

Just like when you are driving your car, you can sometimes be found at fault for an accident while out on the road or at a campsite. When you park your recreational vehicle at the campsite, you might be held liable in the event that someone is hurt around or in your camper. In the event of an accident, bodily injury or property damage, you will want to be covered by an insurance policy. Your RV insurance liability protection can come to the rescue when you are facing any accident-related costs.

Roadside Assistance

Roadside assistance is one of the best benefits available with many RV insurance policies. Often RVers find themselves in a situation where their trailer or motorhome needs to be towed. Be sure to talk to your insurance company to find out if roadside assistance is included in your RV insurance policy. If roadside assistance isn’t included with your insurance policy, we encourage you to check out our RV Club which provides RVers with additional benefits and perks while out on the road exploring.

How much RV insurance do I need?

Your RV insurance agency will help you find the policy that best fights your personal needs and any other unique requirements that may be in place. Often the amount of coverage that you need depends on a variety of factors including:

The requirements of the state you currently reside in
The type of recreational vehicle that you own
Whether you are using your RV full-time or part-time

If you have decided to finance your motorhome, fifth wheel, travel trailer, toy hauler, or destination trailer, your loan lender will most likely require you to have RV insurance coverage for physical damages. It is common that your lender will require certain deductibles and will want to be listed on the policy as a lien holder.

Where can I purchase RV insurance?

RVsurance can help you get a specialized recreational vehicle insurance quote quickly and easily. Their insurance agents will help find the perfect policy from one of their partner carriers that will protect your travel trailer, fifth wheel, toy hauler, tent camper, or Class A, B, or C Motorhome. Regardless of how you and your family like to travel, RVsurance is here to help provide you with the best RV insurance policies available. Get your specialized quote online today!

Yellowstone National Park

Posted on January 11, 2023 | by [email protected]

The United States National Park system offers travelers several opportunities to explore unique landscapes, view beautiful scenery, and encounter a wide variety of wildlife. Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming, and parts of Montana and Idaho, is nearly 3,500 sq. miles of wilderness atop a volcanic hot spot and was the world’s first national park. When you choose to travel to this gorgeous park, you will find dramatic canyons, hot springs, lush forests and more including the famous geyser, Old Faithful. Yellowstone is home to several animal species including wolves, bison, elk, and bears. Yellowstone is perfect for all types of camping lifestyles including traditional tent camping and RV camping. Start planning your trip to Yellowstone National Park today – you don’t want to miss it!

Fast Facts

Yellowstone Entrance Passes:

For non-commercial, private vehicles, a 7-day pass costs $35 per vehicle. Keep in mind that this does not include entrance to Grand Teton National Park which is also nearby. Visitors that are entering through Yellowstone’s South Entrance will be traveling through Grand Teton National Park first and will be required to pay entrance fees to both parks.
Visitors can also purchase an annual park pass for $70 per vehicle or an ‘America the Beautiful – Annual Pass’ for $80 which is honored at all federally-managed land units such as national parks, national forests, national monuments, and more. For more information on entrance fees, reference the National Park Service.

Best Time to Visit:

Summer is a fantastic time to take a trip to visit Yellowstone National Park thanks to the warm weather and all park amenities being open. However, this is the most crowded travel time of the year for the park. If you are looking to avoid crowds, a good time to visit is September or early October.

How Many Days To Plan For:

Plan to spend at least 2 to 3 days in Yellowstone National Park to be able to hit some of the most desired locations. Two days in the park gives you plenty of time to see the most popular attractions such as Old Faithful. Adding an additional day gives you time to explore and view some of the less visited attractions. Check out this Yellowstone National Park Travel Guide for an itinerary to make the most of your time.

Where to Stay:

Yellowstone National Park has 12 campgrounds and an RV park that are perfect for those who like being right in the middle of the beautiful outdoors. If you aren’t planning to camp or take your recreational vehicle, the Old Faithful Inn and Canyon Lodge & Cabins are two of the best places to stay and are both close to the most popular places in the park. If you are wanting to stay outside the park, we would suggest hotels in West Yellowstone, Montana.

Pet Policy:

Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on any of the hiking trails within Yellowstone National Park and cannot be left unattended. To learn more about Yellowstone’s pet policy, reference the National Park Service.

Park History

The Yellowstone region has been called home for more than 11,000 years by several tribes and bands. These groups of people used the park as their hunting ground, transportation route and home prior to and even after the arrival of the European American settlers. In 1872, Yellowstone was established as the world’s first national park. The railroad arrived at the park in 1883 which allowed visitors to more easily access the park’s beautiful landscape. In 1915, automobiles were first allowed into the park so that visits were more economical for travelers. The US Army managed Yellowstone until 1916 at which point the National Park Service was established. Today, Yellowstone National Park is protected and preserved by a number of management divisions and departments so that generations for years to come are able to enjoy these natural wonders and learn more about the history of the land.

Top Park Features

Yellowstone is a supervolcano! Did you know that one of the world’s largest active volcanoes lies just beneath Yellowstone National Park? The first major eruption took place over 2 million years ago and covered over 5m000 sq. miles with ash. While this volcano is still considered active, there has been no active lava flow in over 70,000 years.
Old Faithful erupts more frequently than many other large geysers. This geyser got its name in 1870 from its regularity of eruption, although never at exact hourly intervals. Yellowstone has more geysers than anywhere else on Earth, and Old Faithful typically erupts around 17 times a day.
Half the world’s hydrothermal features can be found at Yellowstone. This national park preserves over 10,000 hydrothermal features which include hot springs, mud pots, geysers, and travertine terraces. These features get their brilliant colors from microorganisms called thermophiles, which are heat-loving organisms.
The wildlife causes several traffic jams. Yellowstone has much more to offer than just geysers, it is also known for its bison herds. This park is the only place where bison have lived since prehistoric times and they often cause traffic jams (also known as bison jams), as cars wait for them to cross the road.
Yellowstone is home to the largest concentration of animals in the lower 48 states. The wildlife at Yellowstone National Park is abundant and diverse with an estimated 67 species of mammals, 300 species of birds, and 16 different types of fish. Some of the mammals that call Yellowstone home include grizzly bears, lynx, foxes, elk, wolves and moose. Although beautiful, please remember to not approach them. The park rules state that you must be at least 25 yards from large animals and at least 100 years from wolves and bears.

Things To Do

Hot Springs
Yellowstone’s beautiful hydrothermal areas are home to several features such as pots of bubbling mud, geysers, and hot springs. Fun fact: Hot springs are the most common hydrothermal features in this national park. Each temperature in the hot springs has its very own set of microorganisms, which provide a different color. This is the reason why the hot springs have those amazing bands of color that expand from the center.

Top hot springs to visit at Yellowstone National Park:

Crested Pool (Upper Geyser Basin)
Sapphire Pool (Biscuit Basin, part of Upper Geyser Basin)
Turquoise Pool (Midway Geyser Basin)
Fountain Paint Pot (Lower Geyser Basin)
Blue Funnel Spring (West Thumb Geyser Basin)

Hiking Trails
From beautiful waterfalls and deeply carved canyons, one of the best ways to see the true beauty that lies within Yellowstone National Park is to hop on the trails and take a hike. When preparing for your hike, be sure to dress in layers since the temperatures can fluctuate drastically from day to night. It is smart to wear moisture-wicking hiking shirts and warm fleece layers to stay comfortable all day long. It is crucial to carry safety gear and plenty of water. Yellowstone is bear country so don’t forget the bear spray!

Best hikes in Yellowstone National Park:

Wraith Falls (1 mile)
Fairy Falls (4.8 miles)
Grand Prismatic Overlook Trail (1.5 miles)
Upper Geyser Basin and Old Faithful Observation Point Loop (4.9 miles)
Lone Star Geyser Trail (5.3 miles)
North Rim Trail (6.4 miles)
Trout Lake Loop (1.2 miles)

Geysers
One of the most famous attractions in Yellowstone National Park is its magnificent geyser basins. These hydrothermal features are the reason that the U.S. Congress established Yellowstone as the world’s first national park. Visitors will find the world’s tallest geyser, Steamboat Geyser, and the previously discussed, Old Faithful. These geysers and hundreds of others are accessible and visible from various trails and boardwalks.

Most notable geyser basins in Yellowstone:

Norris Geyser Basin: Crackling Lake, Porcelain Springs, Emerald Spring, Cistern Spring, Echinus Geyser, and Steamboat Geyser
Upper Geyser Basin: Old Faithful, Castle Geyser, Riverside Geyser, Grand Geyser, Castle Geyser, Crested Pool, Morning Glory Pool, Sapphire Pool, Emerald Pool, Beauty Pool, and Punch Bowl Spring
Lower Geyser Basin: Fountain Paint Pot, Great Fountain Geyser, and White Dome Geyser
Midway Geyser Basin: Excelsior Geyser Crater, Turquoise Pool, and Grand Prismatic Spring

Lakes & Waterfalls
Yellowstone National Park has over 150 named lakes. The most famous being Yellowstone Lake which is more than 7,000 feet above sea level (making it North America’s largest high-elevation lake), spans 139 square miles, and features 141 miles of shoreline. Lakes in Yellowstone are home to a variety of wildlife including native fish species and an immense bird population. Be on the lookout for eagles and trumpeter swans!

Visitors can also look forward to hundreds of waterfalls, several of which are visible from roadside viewpoints and overlooks otherwise known as “frontcountry”. Lower Falls of the Yellowstone River drops down 308 feet into the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone. We also suggest you check out Gibbon Falls, Kepler Cascades, Rustic Falls, and Undine Falls.

Campgrounds
Yellowstone National Park has 12 campgrounds with over 2,000 established campsites for its visitors. All campsites must be reserved in advance, except for Mammoth Campground which has first come, first served sites from mid-October to the beginning of April. Reservations book up fast so be sure to mark your campsite reservations early in advance. Fishing Bridge RV Park (no tents) is the only campground that offers water, sewer, and electrical hookups. Keep in mind that dump stations may close when the temperatures reach below freezing.

Stay tuned for more National Park Travel Guides from the ROUTE 66 RV Network!

RV Loans & Financing Insights

Posted on December 21, 2022 | by [email protected]

Deciding to purchase a recreational vehicle is a big investment for new and experienced RVers alike. If this is your first RV purchase, the varying loan options and extra requirements may seem overwhelming and daunting. Fortunately, the ROUTE 66 RV Network offers customers like you their knowledge of the RV loan and financing process and the experience to make it a more simple, understandable process.

Additionally, the ROUTE 66 RV Network has formed valuable partnerships with Bank of America and Bank of the West to provide customers with the best and most competitive interest rates available. You can feel confident making financial decisions surrounding your new investment with their expertise. Medallion Bank also provides non-prime loans that are suitable for those with lower credit scores but are wanting to finance their new recreational vehicle.

Ready to learn more? Check out our list of Frequently Asked Questions or get in touch with your local ROUTE 66 RV Network Dealer. Our member dealers are ready and willing to provide you with the answers you’ve been looking for on how to maximize the enjoyment of your purchase and maintain financial flexibility. In fact, many first-time RVers come to us to check out their financial options before starting their shopping experience. That’s what we are here for!

Frequently Asked Loan Questions

Q: What are the benefits of financing my RV purchase?

A: When you choose to finance your RV purchase instead of liquidating your assets or paying cash, you are able to maintain personal financial flexibility and potentially qualify for some of the benefits that come with having a second home mortgage. To qualify, your RV must have basic sleeping arrangements, cooking facilities, and a bathroom. To receive more specific details please contact your tax advisor.

Q: What are the advantages of financing through an RV Lending Specialist?

A: Some of the benefits of financing your purchase through an RV Lending Specialist include lower down payments, longer finance terms, and lower monthly payments. By setting a monthly payment within your budget, you leave the dealership knowing that you can confidently pay off your RV over a substantial period of time instead of all at once. RV financing specialists understand that recreational vehicles maintain their value and resale appeal so they tend to offer more pleasing terms and help you afford your dream RV.

Q: What types of RVs can be financed?

A: You are able to finance several types of new and pre-owned RVs including Class A Motorhomes, Class B Motorhomes, Class C Motorhomes, Fifth Wheels, Travel Trailers, Pop-Up Campers, Truck Campers and Destination Trailers (Park Models).

Q: How is my interest rate determined?

A: The physical purchase of your new recreational vehicle is dependent on the approval of your credit which is dependent on several factors such as your credit history, ability to make timely payments, and proof of your income. RV loans have extended terms that can be anywhere from 8 to 15 years depending on if you are purchasing a new or pre-owned camper. Interest rates are dependent on your total loan amount, your down payment, your overall credit profile, and the current value of your recreational vehicle. Once your application is processed, your dealership finance representative will provide you with complete information on your loan interest rate.

Q: Will I need a down payment and if so, how much?

A: Some dealerships require a down payment of at least 10 percent of the recreational vehicle purchase price, but many do prefer up to 20 percent down. A larger down payment will help lower your monthly payments and might even help you qualify for a lower interest rate.

Q: Do I need RV Insurance for an RV Loan?

A: If you are choosing to finance your motorhome, travel trailer, fifth wheel, or destination trailer, your loan lender will typically require you to have physical damage coverages for that vehicle. Be sure to review your policy to ensure that you have the coverage you need to protect yourself and your recreational vehicle.

Which Type of RV is Best For You?

Posted on October 31, 2022 | by [email protected]

Finding the right RV for you and your family can be challenging. There are many options to choose from. So, how do you know which RV is the best choice for your lifestyle? Keep reading to learn more about the different recreational vehicle types and discover which is best for your next adventure.

Motorized vs Towable

There are two different categories of RVs: motorized vehicles and towables.

Motorized vehicles, otherwise known as motorhomes, provide living and driving functions under a single roof and take the hassle out of hitching and towing. Motorhomes are great for first-time RVers who might not be the most comfortable maneuvering with a second vehicle in tow. There are three types of motorhomes: Class A Motorhomes, Class B Motorhomes, and Class C Motorhomes.

Towables, also called trailers, require a vehicle to tow them from place to place. Trailers are usually cheaper than motorhomes, and once you reach your final destination you can easily unhitch your vehicle, allowing you to have a set of wheels to easily explore the area outside your campsite. There are five towable RVs to choose from: travel trailers, fifth wheels, toy haulers, pop-up campers, and truck campers.

Now let’s take a closer look.

Class A Motorhomes (Motorized)

Class A Motorhomes are built on heavy-duty frames and are the largest motorhomes on the road. They typically range between 21 and 45 feet in length and are built on a special chassis. You and your family will have plenty of room to stretch out in the roomy living areas and will feel at home with several amenities included in the motorhome, no matter where you are.

Class B Motorhomes (Motorized)

Class B Motorhomes are also known as “camper vans” as they drive more similarly to a van due to being built on a standard van chassis. Living quarters are smaller since these motorized vehicles are more compact, but this does make them typically easier to drive. If you and your family love going on day trips or are spontaneous travelers, then a Class B Motorhome is a perfect choice.

Class C Motorhomes (Motorized)

Class C Motorhomes combine the top features of Class A’s and Class B’s into one mid-sized recreational vehicle. These motorhomes usually range from 20 to 33 feet in length and are built on a truck or van chassis. Many Class C owners tow their cars along to make running errands and day excursions easier.

Travel Trailers (Towable)

When it comes to Travel Trailers there are several different options to choose from. These RVs commonly offer a wide variety of amenities and floor plans making it easy to find a model that best fits your lifestyle and needs. Some larger models may have bunks, known as bunkhouse models, which can sleep between four and ten people, and some smaller trailers may only offer sleeping space for one to two people. Travel trailers can be towed by any vehicle that can handle their weight capacity.

Fifth Wheels (Towable)

Fifth Wheels are the largest, most expensive, and therefore most luxurious of the towable recreational vehicles. Due to the fact that these trailers are around 20 to 40 feet in length, these trailers must be towed by a large truck or a conversion vehicle. Fifth Wheel Trailers connect to your tow vehicle by a “gooseneck” extension which fits into a space in the bed of your vehicle. These towables typically have large kitchens and bathrooms, plenty of storage space and more sleeping room.

Toy Haulers (Towable)

Toy Haulers are designed to allow you to bring extra toys along like jet skis, ATVs, motorcycles, or even bikes and kayaks. These trailers are split into two sections: the front living quarters and the rear section featuring a pull-down ramp. If you and your adventure buddies like to bring extra camping gear along on trips, then a toy hauler is a great option.

Pop-Up Campers (Towable)

These compact trailers feature expandable side sections that are folded down during transportation and allow for easy camping. The hard-bodied central area contains a simple kitchen and a bathroom, and the expandable sides convert into sleeping areas. These trailers can be towed by most mid-sized vehicles by a ball hitch receiver. Pop-up campers, sometimes also referred to as fold-down campers, are a perfect option for those looking to upgrade from tents and sleeping bags while camping.

Truck Campers (Towable)

Truck campers are economical and easy to drive since they attach to an everyday pickup truck. These campers usually sleep two to four people depending on the model, and offer campers a small cooking, bath, and storage area. If you are a spontaneous traveler or weekend warrior who prefers affordability over luxurious amenities, this towable RV is the one for you!

Visit a ROUTE 66 RV Network Dealer near you to purchase the RV you have been looking for. Our network of independently-owned RV dealerships are here to help you!

Things to Consider Before Buying an RV

Posted on July 21, 2022 | by [email protected]

Whether you are brand-new to the RVing scene or know the ropes like the back of your hand, it is always smart to research what goes into buying an RV before making the purchase. How many people will you be accommodating regularly? How often will you use the vehicle? Are you buying new or pre-owned? Don’t worry, several people are asking the same questions and we are here to help you find the answers!

Where To Start?

As you begin the RV purchasing process, you should be thinking specifically about the amenities and features that will fit your camping style. How will you be utilizing your RV? If you plan to live full-time in your RV or camp seasonally, you might find a Destination Trailer more suitable as they are taller, heavier, and more homelike than other models. Think about where you desire to travel and what types of adventures you want to take. Before visiting the dealership, make a checklist of the necessities you are looking for in an RV. For instance, you might want a unit with a full stove, air conditioning for camping in those warmer months, or perhaps extra storage space for your adventure gear. Having an estimate of how many people you will be traveling with on a regular basis is also key.
You will also need to determine if you are wanting a motorized vehicle or a towable trailer. Motorhomes, Class A, Class B, and Class C variations, are equipped with their own engines allowing for the best drivability and comfortable travel but do come at a higher price point. When purchasing a towable RV, you will need to identify if you have the necessary vehicle to tow your purchase. Travel trailers are able to be towed by most midsize cars, vans, and SUVs. A fifth wheel, which is often amongst the largest towable RVs, requires a pickup truck as they connect to the bed of the truck for maximum stability. Pop-up campers are an affordable, easy-to-tow option that gives campers modern amenities and a unique experience.

New or Pre-Owned?

After identifying the RV type that is right for you, you will also want to consider if you are buying a new or used unit. The condition of the recreational vehicle you purchase could be heavily dependent on your price range as pre-owned inventory typically comes at a lower price tag. However, a new RV will have the most up-to-date features available on the market today and no mileage or previous service history to worry about.
Prices for brand new RVs vary from region to region and change with consumer-chosen amenities and dealer-related fees. Most manufacturers will provide an MSRP sheet. MSRP stands for, “manufacturer’s suggested retail price,” which is often also referred to as the factory window sticker. These sheets include each standard and optional item included in that particular unit allowing you to compare apples to apples. Shopping for used RVs can potentially lower the price tag a considerable amount. Before shopping, check out NADA Guides to verify the current market value of the options you are exploring.

Added and Unforeseen Costs?

RVs require annual maintenance to keep things running smoothly, just like a car. RVs require annual maintenance to keep running smoothly and there may be additional unforeseen service and repair expenses. You also have to consider where you will park it during the off-season, such as a storage facility to keep your investment protected, and how much it costs to park at RV parks and campgrounds while you are traveling. We would also encourage you to purchase RV insurance for your recreational vehicle to protect you in the circumstance that your RV is damaged or is at a total loss. These are just a few of the additional costs that you should consider before purchasing a new or used RV for your adventures.

Is Financing an Option?

Purchasing an RV is a large investment. If you are purchasing your first RV, the number of loan options and additional requirements might seem daunting and overwhelming. Luckily when you purchase with a ROUTE 66 RV Network Dealer, experienced and knowledgeable professionals can make the process easier for you. Our network has connections with top RV lenders allowing you as the purchaser to be confident you are getting the most competitive interest rates. Before purchasing an RV, make sure you ask about financing options to maximize your purchase!

Your local ROUTE 66 RV Network Dealer can help you find the perfect RV for your camping needs and lifestyle. Visit an independently-owned RV dealership near you today to begin the RV purchasing process.

RVing with Kids Made Simple

Posted on April 27, 2022 | by [email protected]

Choose the Perfect Campground or RV Park

Not every RV park, resort or campground is created with kids in mind. When RVing with the entire family it is vital that you find a place that will accommodate your family’s needs and camping style. Before hitting the open road, make sure that you do your research on the different parks in the area you are traveling to. You can use apps and websites such as KOA to look up RV parks and read reviews. If you are a ROUTE 66/RV Care Promises member or a member of the RV Club, you can receive 10% off each night.* The best place for your entire family is going to have lots of space for your kids to run around and get their energy out. Plus being in a close proximity to fun activities or sites is a bonus!

Be Prepared for Rain

No matter how perfectly you plan your RV adventure, you can’t control the weather and unexpected rain can occur. Luckily you can plan for the unexpected! Packing card and board games, such as UNO or Monopoly, is always a great idea for entertaining your kids when stuck inside. Many people put a multiplayer game console in their RV which adds to the level of family fun during times like these.

Map Out Stops

RVs are big, especially in small parking lots. Before your trip, do some research on places that are easy to eat at when traveling in an RV. Truck stop gas stations are a great stop for when you are needing a quick pit stop to stock up on snacks. Many McDonald’s have RV parking and play areas for the kiddos which helps release their energy on longer travel days. Rest areas are another great spot to stop when traveling with your whole family since several have small walking trails.

Shorter Travel Days

You might love the excitement of road trips and cruising long open roads, but they can be hard for young adventurers. Long travel days can be extremely boring and uncomfortable for kids. To help keep your kids excited about the destination consider traveling in shorter periods of time such as 3-5 hours a day. Shorter travel days also allow for the driver to rest, and allows the passenger to provide everyone with snacks. Also make sure to add 10-15 minutes to each hour of travel for bathroom breaks.

Buckle Up

Don’t forget to buckle up! When traveling in a motorhome, your kids might have the urge to roam the cabin freely when traveling – this can be very dangerous. When the RV is moving, everyone should be seated and buckled up. Learn more about safety while traveling in an RV!

Have Fun!

Just like when you’re at home, sometimes things don’t go as planned. There might be more rainy days than sunny ones making your kids restless and no longer entertained by games like Uno or iSpy. Always remember that you are adventuring with your family! Make the most of every moment with keeping spirits light and happy and omitting the need for perfection. Remember to be patient and flexible with your time and always appreciate the time you are getting to spend surrounded by the people you love. RVing is about having fun and seeing nature in a whole new way!