ASHLEY RAPPLEYEA/ Scrolll
A brief 20 minute trip North of Rexburg lies the St. Anthony Sand Dunes, an area that attracts outdoor enthusists from all over the United States.

Students can plan local trips to take with mom

by Jessica Gallup GAL04010@BYUI.EDU Scroll Staff

Surrounded by majestic mountains lies a valley full of varieties of enjoyable activities for the young and the old — in this case mother and child.

Idaho and the surrounding areas provide an array of activities for all to do, activities such as going to the St. Anthony Sand Dunes. The sand dunes are made of millions of tons of sand-carved hills available for activities like four-wheeling, sledding and such.

Not wanting sand in the shoes? Jackson Hole could be a worthwhile drive and day trip. Along the way a scenic route paves its path. In Jackson Hole itself, the ever-growing town is full of a variety of shops, restaurants, museums, ranches and other fun-filled activities.

Crazy about skiing or snowboarding? Grand Targhee is one of the most cherished and fastest growing ski resorts in the western part of the United States. Classy shops and beautiful ski runs grace the resort.

Yellowstone and Island Park also are full of scenic views, shops, people and camping.

“Camping is always fun. We always love going camping in either Yellowstone or Island Park,” Heather Smith, a freshman from Blackfoot, Idaho, said.

Trails for hiking and walking are available all around. Made up of scenic routes, full of breathtaking wildlife and still nature.

“In Blackfoot, my mom and I will walk together at Jensen’s Grove. We call it the “greenbelt” in Blackfoot,” Tauyna Turpin, a freshman from Blackfoot, Idaho, said.

Parks seem to be plentiful in Southeastern Idaho. “[My mother and I] would go have a picnic in the park and afterwards we would go swing on the swings and just talk about everything,” Turpin said.

Chick flicks may be available at movie theaters that are easily accessible, and also may be enjoyed by a mother and daughter.

A common favorite seems to be shopping.

“My mother and I will go shopping in Idaho Falls, and then we will go out to lunch,” Turpin said.

“Going shopping with my mom in Idaho Falls is always fun,” Smith agreed. “I have to get [my mother’s] opinion. She is always telling me that if she is buying then I have to try it on!”

All sorts of activities are available during Mothers’ Weekend, activities of which, if utilized, may contribute to an increase in the closeness between mother and child.

Mothers’ Weekend can be used as precious time, to help a bond grow between mother and child in every area and aspect of life.

“Go have a picnic, go shopping, walk around campus. Go and listen to the speakers and talk with your mom,” Smith said.