The world is full of wonders and adventures just waiting for you to come and explore. There is no doubt there are thousands of destinations which offer unique and exciting outdoor experiences. However, knowing the best of the best makes it easier for you to decide which are the top adventure trips for you. Here are 50 of the best places for outdoor activities you should check out!
1. Moab, Utah
Have the adventure of a lifetime by dropping by the Moab Adventure Center. The Moab Adventure Center can give you access to all the different outdoor activities available. Live life like you’ve never experienced it before. Conquer and explore the Moab desert with its canyon mazes and gargantuan sandstone formations. You’ll surely be mesmerized by the crimson rock playground and what adventure it has to offer you. Every day is an opportunity to go out on an incredible and unforgettable adventure. You can go on an exciting river rafting trip and test your courage as you overcome treacherous waters. You can also go hiking in Arches National Park, go on an off-road Hummer safari, horseback riding, mountain biking and more. You will never run out of outdoor activities to do at Moab. No matter which kind of adventure you choose, you’ll surely have fun and excitement. Live life to the fullest and test what Moab has to offer you. Visit the Moab Adventure Center, located at 225 South Main Street in Moab, Utah. Moab might be the next ultimate adventure destination for you. If you are ready for a great adventure, make sure you don’t forget about Moab. And also don’t forget to bring good hiking boots (men, women).
2. Steamboat Springs, Colorado
Regardless of the season, Steamboat Springs has an adventure for you. From downhill mountain biking to cross county skiing, Steamboat Springs will prove itself to be one of the best adventure trips you could ever have. If you love mountain biking, experience over 2,000 feet of downhill mountain biking at the Steamboat Bike Park. You can also find the longest mountain coaster in North America at Steamboat. If you’re ready for a coaster ride that descends more than 400 vertical feet, has dips, 360 degree circles, waves and rises up to 40 feet above ground, you can try the Outlaw Mountain Coaster. There are also outdoor activities for kids such as the Coca-Cola Adventure Zone. It offers a lot of exciting thrills for adults as well, such as the scenic gondola ride, mini-golf, wall climbing, bungee jumping and many more. Other activities and features in Steamboat Springs include zipline, horseback riding, water rafting, kayaking, kids adventure club, golf, hot springs, spas, hot air balloon tours, movies on the mountain, alpine slide, water sports, disc golf, paddle boarding, pro rodeo, wagon dinner rides, fishing, helicopter tours, night skiing, snowmobile tours, sleigh ride dinners, tubing, snowshoeing, cross country skiing and even photography tours. There is just so much to do at Steamboat Springs.
3. Hawi, Big Island, Hawaii
There’s so much to do at the Big Island of Hawaii. You can get the chance to go swimming with manta rays which are the largest type of rays in the entire world. They can be very intimidating to be witness up close in the water because of their sheer size but they are gentle animals. You can also go hiking through a very lush rainforest and get up close with nature. You will enjoy the tropical features of the island which can really make you feel like you’re on an adventure of a lifetime. On a boat, you can also watch as lava flows into the sea, which can be scary for some, but always exhilarating to see. You can also go kayaking at the Big Island of Hawaii and even go snorkeling and see spectacular coral reefs teeming with colorful tropical fish. The clear water makes the experience great. You can also go on a trip with a small group and go dolphin watching. You’ll be in areas where dolphins usually hang out and you’ll be able to see them jumping and diving in their natural habitat. You can also go cliff jumping, go exploring sea caves and more. Don’t forget to bring your water shoes. You’re going to need them!
4. Portland, Maine
If you wish to reconnect with wildlife and nature, one of the best adventure trips exists in Portland in Maine. In Portland, there are a lot of outdoor activities which can have you reconnecting with nature and wildlife. From simple hiking to wildlife watching or camping (bring a good hammock), you’ll surely find yourself falling in love again with mother nature. There are also a lot of water sports you can do in Portland, such as canoeing and kayaking. You can go to Casco Bay if you wish to paddle in serene waters. If you are more of an adrenaline junkie, you can go to the Old Orchard Beach and surf the 6-foot waves. You can also ride on one of the ferries to visit many islands and historic lighthouses. You can also go white water rafting in areas such as the Saco River, Royal River and Crooked River. During the winter, you can go skiing at Lost Valley. If biking is your game, you can go to Bradbury Mountain. Biking in Portland is great for those who are already experienced, but don’t fret, beginners are welcome too. There are many other activities you can do in Portland.
5. Durango, Colorado
If you are seeking challenging adventures, the over six thousand feet of mountain elevation in Durango may have you wanting to bike or hike the exhilarating terrain. Durango, Colorado has over 2,000 miles of trails for your biking pleasure. Whether you are already a professional biker or just a first-timer, Durango has the ideal terrain for you. Most of the locals in Durango ride bikes, and you’re sure to get great tips and advice from them. You can even find plenty of information just dropping by local bike shops. Durango also offers water sports such as kayaking in the Lower Animas River. You can also go fishing in the clear waters of Durango and be challenged by angling for trout, which they are famous for. You can look for fishing guide services at Duranglers. Some of the best fishing spots in Durango are the San Juan River, the Animas River and Vallecito Lake. All are excellent waters that offer a unique fishing experience. Some people bring their fishing kayaks with them, along with a fish finder to increase the size of the catch! Some of the other outdoor adventures in Durango include horseback riding, rock climbing, snowmobiling, camping, hunting, rafting, skiing, snowboarding, ziplining and more. You’ll never run out of exciting adventures in Durango making it one of best adventure trips you could have.
6. Boston, Massachusetts
If you love hiking, jogging, running or marathons, Boston might give you your ideal adventure. Boston has been arguably called the running capital of the United States. If you’re into weekly running events, Boston has that to offer you. You can also have an urban adventure tour in Boston through a scenic bike ride. Find and discover hidden gems as you get to know more of the places of the city up close as you pedal your way around the city. You can also enjoy water sports such as kayaking in Charles River. You can rent a kayak, canoe or paddleboard and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the urban riverways. To catch a panoramic view of Boston, you can visit Blue Hills Reservation to hike the skyline trail or the skyline loop which is shorter than the skyline trail. You can also take your family camping at the Shawme-Crowell State Forest. It’s a great and delightful place to take the family for a weekend and it also has lots of camping options. If you want to be with nature, you can go hiking and see the wildlife sanctuary at Mass Audubon’s Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary. You’re sure to find something you love in Boston.
7. Minneapolis, Minnesota
You’re sure to love Minneapolis because of the large amount of land the state has developed for its state parks. They have dedicated 20 percent of their total land in parks that is about 6,700 acres, one for every six blocks. About 94% of Minnesotans live within a few minutes walk of a park. Isn’t that amazing? Minneapolis also consistently ranks among the top biking cities in the United States, because of its extensive bike lanes and biking laws created to encourage and protect them. There are also thousands of lakes (not literally), some 750 of them which you can enjoy different water sports from swimming to canoeing. Minneapolis is the fittest city in America and also the most bike-friendly in the nation. There are just so many biking options to choose from and it’s up to you which one is the best one you would want to choose. If you want a challenge, you can go ice climbing at Robinson Park in Sandstone. You can also go scuba diving at Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area. There are also a lot of popular spots for rock climbing. You can climb at Interstate, Tettegouche, Barn Bluff and Blue Mounds, if you wish to indulge in the popular activity. There are a lot of other outdoor adventures in Minneapolis. You’re sure to find a lot because it is, after all, the fittest city in America.
8. Ludington, Michigan
Michigan can be a great place for you and or your family to have a great time. The wilderness areas and lakes of Ludington are great places in which to have a splendid adventure. Ludington also takes pride in their stunning beaches. If you want to have the perfect summer beach vacation, you can have it at the beaches of Ludington. Ludington also has bike trails you can use to see the scenic areas. You can choose to ride downtown or cruise through a forest. You can even take a trip to the scenic Ludington State Park. West Michigan is also home to beautiful and historic lighthouses. The Ludington State Park has everything for you. The number one state park in the Midwest has campgrounds, beaches, lighthouses, hiking and biking trails and exciting summertime programs. You’ll be sure to have something thrilling to do with the woods, water and wildlife that Ludington State Park has. You can also find a lot of different fishing spots in Ludington. They even hold local, and professional, angling tournaments. So you can not only fish for fun, but money. Ludington, Michigan is definitely one of the best adventure trips you can go on in order to scratch off your bucket list.
9. Chattanooga, Tennessee
You can find some of the nation’s best places for rock climbing, mountain and road biking, hiking, white water rafting, horseback riding, hang gliding and more in Chattanooga. Outside Magazine has dubbed Chattanooga as its “Best Town Ever”. If you’re a hardcore outdoor enthusiast, you can find a lot of activities for you in Chattanooga. Of course, there are also tons of activities as well for the less adventurous types. The Ocoee is America’s most popular white water river. It is the site for a lot of national and international white water events even including the 1996 Atlanta Olympics white water rafting events. Challenge yourself by trying the Ocoee River. For something lighter, you can try flat water paddling at the calm waters of Tennessee River Park. You can also go hiking at the Julia Falls Overlook and see stunning and breathtaking sceneries. For bike lovers, you can go mountain biking at the Raccoon Mountain, approximately 15 minutes away from downtown of Chattanooga. It features about 30 miles of intermediate to advanced difficulty tracks. You can also go camping at the historic Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park. It covers land which was abandoned by Native American tribes around 1,500-2,000 years ago.
10. Washington D.C.
Outdoor activities may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Washington D.C., but there are actually a lot of areas and places for outdoor adventures in our nation’s capitol. Everyone needs a break from work and Washington D.C. has made it available for everyone to have easy access to some of the outdoor adventures that people enjoy. If you love mountain biking, you can head out to Wakefield Park and try the several miles of trails which is ideal for all types of riders. Wakefield Park hosts several local races every year and you may want to take part and test your skills there. You can also try Hains Point for cycling. If you want to sprint, you can do so at Custis Trail, which connects two major trails in the Washington D.C. area. It is a four-mile paved road. You can also try the Appalachian Trail for hiking. The Appalachian Trail offers different sets of challenges from easy to expert areas. If you love the water, you can rent a paddle boat and make your away around the Tidal Basin. You can also go canoeing in the Potomac River.
11. Brevard, North Carolina
Brevard is home to a lot of world class outdoor adventures, making it one of the best places for outdoor activities. You can go to Cove-Daniel Loop and climb Cove Creek Trail and also some old forest roads. After 1,500 feet of climbing, you can then go for an exhilarating downhill bike ride on the west side of the Daniel Ridge Loop Trail. You can also go cycling up a scenic highway through a forest to the Blue Ridge Parkway. If you love rock climbing, you can try and experience the Looking Glass Rock which is one of the best climbing destinations in the south. It has a lot of opportunities for climbers of all abilities. The Looking Glass is also a great place for hiking. You can also go biking at the Pisgah National Park. Biking at the Pisgah National Forest is not for beginners, so first-timers can try the North slope, which can be a good practice bike trail for novices. Brevard has over 400 miles of state forests, national forests, trails and multiple parks to choose from. You can surely have a lot of adventures with the many different locations to choose from.
12. Portland, Oregon
Portland is an ideal biking destination. It has been leading the biking revolution in the country, having 181 miles of bike trails and around 80 miles are off-street bike paths. If you want uncrowded access to different natural settings, you can go cycling at the Banks-Vernonia Trail. It is paved, level and is seldom crowded, which is ideal for runners and cyclists alike for easy miles in nature. You can also go to Willamette Boulevard for some level trails and great scenery. At Willamette Boulevard, you won’t have to torture yourself with notorious hills because of the flat land. You can also enjoy easy access to the majestic 289-foot waterfall, Elowah Falls. On your trail, you’ll be able to get through a dense gorge forest that has amazing scenery. The trail going to the falls is only 3.5 miles, and the elevation gain is 280 feet, which makes it great for hikers at all skill levels. The beauty of the falls is superb, and can be appreciated by everyone. More outdoor adventures in Portland include backcountry skiing, backpacking or camping, climbing, cross country skiing, fat biking, mountain biking, road running, snowshoeing, trail running and many more.
13. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
There is a lot to do in Philadelphia. To start, there is Ridley Creek State Park, which is ideal for hiking or running as it has 13 miles of hiking trail and five miles of paved trails. The trail has a diverse forest with plenty of creeks and wetlands. The park is also near Tyler Arboretum, which is another amazing place to explore. There is also French Creek State Park, which is a family friendly place for camping. If you and your family love to spend time in nature, the French Creek State Park is the best place for you with its amenities and features. You can either park your RV, pitch your own tent, or rent a cabin. As for biking, you can go to the Nockamixon State Park, which covers 5,286 acres and the main feature is the 1,450-acre Lake Nockamixon. You can go trail running, hiking or mountain biking at the park. The Lake Nockamixon is a family friendly adventure for scenic mountain biking. There is also the Delaware Water Gap, which is Philadelphia’s closest multi pitch, trad climbing area. The Delaware Water Gap in Philadelphia is the best place for climbing.
14. Fruita, Colorado
Fruita, with its abundance of natural slick-rock trails, is an outdoor paradise. If you love mountain biking, Fruita may be the ideal adventure trip for you for the two-wheel type of adventure. There are beloved mountain biking trails in Fruita, such as the Kokopelli Trail, which has 142 miles of remote canyons and forests. It ends in Moab, Utah. Besides mountain biking, there is also the Colorado River just south of Fruita, where adventure lovers can have a great time rafting, camping and hiking. There is also the Colorado National Monument, which offers stunning vistas. You might also fall in love with the climate in Fruita, which has more sunny days than the rest of the country, making it really one of the best adventure trips you could have. It’s recommended to bring a good pair of flip flops for those hot days. Fruita is also steeped in history, with well preserved town buildings dating back to the late 19th century. The early settlers in Fruita were farmers and Fruita is in the middle of a fruit growing region, hence the town’s name. Fruita is also great for families, because of the abundance of dinosaur fossils that can be found. You and your family could discover new species of dinosaurs.
15. North Conway, New Hampshire
There is a lot of outdoor adventure opportunities in North Conway with its unique land features. North Conway has over 700,000 acres of protected land in the White Mountains, and it has the tallest peak in the northeast. There is a lot to do in North Conway, regardless of the season. You can go hiking, skiing, snowmobiling, fishing, camping, canoeing and much more. There is also a variety of lodging choices in North Conway, including hotels, motels, campgrounds, vacation resorts and even great bed and breakfast inns. Taking a scenic train ride in North Conway can also offer you a very pleasant experience. North Conway is known as a world class destination for trout fishing. The local bass fishing scene is also alive and well in North Conway. For mountain biking, an enthusiast can go to Attitash Mountain Resort which has over 20 miles of mountain biking trails for all skill levels. It has 27 downhill trails and also has eight cross country trails. Another great biking destination in North Conway is the Great Glen Outdoor Center which can offer one of the best scenic views in New Hampshire with its biking trails. If you don’t have a bike, you can rent one at the center.
16. Ely, Minnesota
Even though Ely may not be a big city, it is filled with a lot of fun things you can do with your family. Ely is great for those who love the outdoors. You can go canoeing, camping or hiking at the Boundary Waters Canoe Area. The destination is the most heavily used wilderness area in the country, with around 250,000 visitors each year. It also has Class I air quality, as defined by the Federal Clean Air Act. Have an adventure and enjoy the scenery at the Boundary Waters Canoe Area. Ely is also ideal for fishing. It has over 5,000 lakes, rivers and streams. You would surely love night fishing, with the stars above rooting you on. The northern lights are also on display, at certain times of the year, and offer a once-in-a-lifetime natural light show. Ornithologists (or birding enthusiasts) will also love Ely as there are over 150 species of different kinds of birds which call the area home. Even during the winter months, there are still tons of outdoor activities you can do in Ely. You can go dog sledding, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, ice fishing and snowshoeing. From taking a scenic drive to being immersed in nature, you surely won’t run out of things to do in Ely.
17. San Luis Obispo, California
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you’ll love San Luis Obispo, with the multitude of outdoor adventures you can experience. It’s a playground for outdoor adventurers. From horseback riding to surfing, you’ll surely find plenty of things to do. There are many astonishing beaches in San Luis Obispo the first one being the Cayucos State Beach, where you can go surfing, fishing or simply swimming. The beach is extensive and is only less than half an hour north of San Luis Obispo. The Morro Bay or The Strand is a beautiful destination as well for surfing and kite flying. You and your family will certainly enjoy the picturesque scenery of The Strand. San Luis Obispo also has astonishing sites for rock climbing. The most popular of which is the Nine Sisters. The Nine Sisters (or the Morros) is known for its scenic foothills and is a chain of ancient volcanic plugs, which has peaks that are great for rock climbing. Besides surfing, you can also go kayaking at San Luis Obispo. Kayaking is ideal in getting to know the central coast. Other things you can do are boat tours, walking tours, biking, skateboarding, ziplining, off-roading (ATVs), hiking and horseback riding.
18. Santa Cruz, California
If you love surfing, Santa Cruz should be on your bucket list. Dubbed as the surf city, you’ll definitely want to try out the waters at Santa Cruz. Of course, there are tons of additional outdoor adventures in Santa Cruz besides surfing. There are hundreds of miles of trails for hiking along coastal areas. There is also grand redwood groves and mountain meadows. There are also golf courses, cycling trails, kayaking, skate parks and more at Santa Cruz. Try ziplining and see lush and scenic views of redwood groves or you can go to the original surf school, which gave birth to mainland surfing in the United States, the Richard Schmidt Surf School. Learn from the top big wave rider of the 1980s, Richard Schmidt, and actually get to successfully ride waves from your first lesson. Santa Cruz is the mecca for mountain biking for its scenic and breathtaking views as you go cycling through the redwoods. For a more relaxed biking experience, you can go to the Wilder Ranch which is a favorite of both locals and visitors. With a large variety of trails you could choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect trail for any skill level. You can also go kayaking and explore the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. You can interact with the wildlife at Monterey Bay and no experience is required from you to try and kayak.
19. Boise, Idaho
On the edge of the mountains and high desert, Boise is perfectly situated for a variety of outdoor adventures. You can go white water paddling at the south fork of the Boise River which is a 16-mile rafting trip also great for fishing and provides stunning canyon sceneries. For a wonderful water adventure, you can go flat water paddling at Lake Cascade which offers a remarkable 360-degree mountain view. It is one of the beautiful destinations with pine trees around the area. At Lake Cascade, you can also go fishing for trout, bass and salmon. You can even go ice fishing at Lake Cascade during the winter. If you love to cycle and would want to experience how Olympians train, you can give Bogus Basin Road a go. It is a 29-mile round trip and the track climbs to 3,500 feet. The great thing with the Bogus Basin Road is whether you like to take it fast or slow, when you reach the summit it is a really great reward and gives you a great feeling of accomplishment. At Boise, you can go camping or backpacking, climbing, cycling, hiking, road running, mountain biking, white water paddling and trail running.
20. Ketchum, Idaho
The first ski resort and the world’s first ski lift was established near Ketchum which was originally known as Sun Valley. That already says a lot about the place regarding snow sports. The world’s first ski lift was developed in 1936, strangely from a conveyor used to take bananas from ships. Skiing is part of the community’s identity. If you love skiing, Ketchum can be one of the best adventure trips of your life because of its historic association to the snow sports. Sun Valley helped careers of a number of ski-racers because of the incredibly challenging mountain slopes available. more to do than skiing, of course, like hiking and climbing. The other, wilder mountains, said to be more difficult than Sun Valley, surround Ketchum. They are the Sawtooths, White Clouds, Pioneers and Boulders. There are hundreds of miles of great ski slopes and single tracks in Ketchum. The town can also be an ideal destination if you are new to snow sports. With its great historical background and well-manicured ski slopes, you’re sure to love Ketchum. Just be sure not to wander off too far off-road to avoid danger.
21. Big Sky, Montana
Big Sky is great during the winter season and even summer. Big Sky Resort is a great destination for winter activities such as zipline tours, snowshoe tours, bungee trampoline, high ropes course, wall climbing, dog sledding, snowmobile tours, Nordic skiing and more. You can even go on a giant swing and have sleigh rides. During summer, you can go golfing, mountain biking, skeet shooting, fly fishing, whitewater rafting, horseback riding, wildlife viewing, rock climbing and more. You won’t run out of things to do in Big Sky. There is even a place for archery and disc golf. At Big Sky, you can go for a lone peak expedition, go to Adventure Mountain and of course Yellowstone National Park. You can stay at the basecamp to Yellowstone National Park. You can also go fly fishing on the Gallatin River. It has picturesque scenic views and just being at the gorgeous place is a wonderful experience. You can also go mountain biking on the 40-mile trail. Ski lifts are available for use so you can have the choice of a only going downhill. With the many outdoor adventures you can do in Big Sky, it certainly is one of the best adventure trips you could experience.
22. Bishop, California
Bishop is located in the Eastern Sierra area of California, which makes it a good spot for outdoor adventures. You can go hiking, climbing, fishing, bird watching, hunting, cross country skiing, off-road vehicle driving, biking and much more. For fishing, you can go to the Pleasant Valley Reservoir, which also has lengthy hiking trails and breathtaking scenic views. You might also want to take a dip at Keough’s Hot Springs, which is the largest natural hot springs pool in the Eastern Sierras. The hot springs are one of the biggest reasons why Bishop gets a lot of visitors. They’ve had the hot springs for almost a hundred years and it has been really popular attracting people from all across the globe. Near Bishop you will find some of the oldest trees in the world. The Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest is home to the oldest trees in the world which are over 4,000 years old. One would feel humbled just looking at the ancient trees knowing they’ve lived for over four millenniums. Bishop has over 300 days of sunshine annually which makes it an ideal destination for climbing. The Owen River Gorge, with its steep walls, crevices and cracks, is one of the most renowned climbing destinations. It’s climbing routes are 4,000 to 6,000 feet in height and guarantee a challenging, yet, fun climb.
23. Bend, Oregon
In Bend, you can have outdoor adventures year-round. During the summer, you can go whitewater rafting at the Deschutes River. The Big Eddy Thriller is an exhilarating rafting adventure that is ideal for the whole family. You can have an overnight rafting and camping experience, if one day isn’t enough for you and your family. The stars always create a stunning display of nature’s night lights as you camp near the Deschutes River or the North Umpqua River. With Bend’s cool and dry winters, you can still enjoy hiking and biking year-round. At Mount Bachelor, kids 12 and under can ski for free every day. You can also trek the world-renowned Bend Ale Trail and give some of the finest beers a try from over 15 award-winning breweries. You can also snowshoe your way through Deschutes National Park and enjoy the amazing views. You can also rent bikes and go cycling through the hundreds of miles of biking trails. Just a few minutes from Bend, you can also visit the majestic Tumalo Falls, which never fails to impress with its beauty and grandeur. The falls are 100-foot tall and the sight is surely something you truly won’t forget.
24. Taos, New Mexico
There is a lot of adventuring to do in Taos and you’ll surely find it to be one of the best adventure trips you’ll ever take. If you love mountain biking, you’ll surely want to give Berminator a try at Taos Ski Valley. The Berminator is great for beginners and advanced bikers who love berm-riding and jumps. For a more challenging track, you can go to the Devisadero Peak Loop Trail which challenges bikers with its climbing and descending trail. The rock features can be quite difficult and bikers should expect punchy climbs and tight sections along the ridge. Experience “Heaven on Earth” through the South Boundary Trail with its 25-mile ride that is ideal for experienced bikers. You can travel the boundary of Carson National Forest coming from Angel Fire going to Taos. The track may be quite rocky and technical but an intermediate biker can have little difficulty in finishing up the last few miles. For more climbing, you can go to the north side of Taos Ski Valley and try accomplishing the many challenges such as climbing up the Bull of the Woods all the way to Big Daddy. If you’re still game for more, you can proceed to Frazier Mountain Road for a crazy climb of up to 12,100 feet and reach the summit of Frazier Mountain.
25. Austin, Texas
In Austin, you can go backpacking, camping, cycling, climbing, flat water paddling, mountain biking, hiking, road running, trail running, white water paddling, surfing or windsurfing and much more. For white water paddling, you can go to Rio Frio or the Frio River. The great thing about the Frio River is that its stream is narrow, shallow and small and it’s also ideal for kayaking. You can also go fishing at Frio Rio and catch bass and trout. If you’re into disc golf, you can head out to the Roy G. Guerrero Park which is located nearby Lady Bird Lake. The park is great for both the pro and average players with the design of the disc golf course made to be challenging for players. For climbing, you can go to the Bull Creek Park. It may not be world-class or much of a challenge but it still makes a great outdoor activity or exercise. The Bull Creek Park offers areas for both beginners and experienced climbers. The Big Chief Boulder is ideal for beginners and for the experienced climbers, they can go to the vertical walls at the Bill Boulders and Walter Weed. You can also go paddling at Lady Bird Lake for a 6-mile scenic water adventure that you can do for hours.
26. Albuquerque, New Mexico
Albuquerque offers great weather conditions having over 300 sunny days a year, ideal for outdoor adventures. The city is also ranked one of the country’s fittest cities by Men’s Fitness Magazine. Outdoor activities you can do in Albuquerque include biking, rafting, canoeing, horseback riding, skiing, snowboarding and more. Biking trails start from paved bike trails all around the city to mountain biking trails by the foothills of Sandia. The hiking trails of New Mexico also offer stunning sceneries as you get to see the astonishing geological formations and wildlife in the area. You can also find the best golf courses of New Mexico in Albuquerque and the courses are playable all year, because of Albuquerque’s beautiful climate. For water sports, you can head down the Rio Grande River for some fun white water adventures. You can go with your friends, alone or with your family and have fun with the different options of white water rafting available. During the winter, you can go skiing at Sandia Peak Ski Area. The area is perfect for both beginners and experienced skiers and there is also a ski school if you wish to learn.. Cross-country skiing is also available if you fancy it at the resort. You’ll also find several world-class snowboarding and skiing areas such as Ski Santa Fe, which is the highest ski area with over a 12,000-foot summit.
27. San Francisco, California
You could say that San Francisco is a world-class outdoor playground with its unique features such as the varied geography having the San Francisco Bay, Pacific Ocean and many mountain ranges. There are also multiple state and national parks such as the Angel Island State Park conveniently located in the heart of San Francisco Bay. There is also Yosemite National Park, which is the crown jewel of the U.S. National Park System. For some trail running, you can go to the Mount Sutro Open Space Reserve, which is just in the middle of the city. If you want a great workout in the middle of the city, Mount Sutro is the best location for you. Another great trail for running is by the Presidio. The trails aren’t difficult and are great when you want to have the scenic view of San Francisco. If you love camping, go to Pantoll which is located within the redwoods on Mount Tam. You’ll have all the camping amenities you’ll need at Pantoll and you don’t have to make any reservations. During the clear night, you’ll get to see a display of hundreds of thousands of stars that is a sight to behold. If you’re in need of a last-minute camping trip, you can consider Pantoll to be your ideal camping destination.
28. Bellingham, Washington
Bellingham is one of the best adventure trips for outdoor activities with the variety of outdoor adventures you could do from climbing to trail running. For climbing, you can go to Clayton Beach and choose your climb adventure from there. Be sure to grab hold of rocks with stable foundations and not those that have weak holds. Another great spot for climbing is Mount Baker, which is one of the largest peaks and is a world-class area for alpine and ice climbing. It rises over 10,000 feet from sea level, and is also known as one of the snowiest places on the planet. However, Mount Baker shouldn’t be underestimated even with perfect weather. It is always best to prepare and know how to go about Mount Baker. For a relaxing and revitalizing hiking experience, you can go to Pine and Cedar Lakes. It’s nearly a 2-mile, uphill trail in the Chuckanuts and the scenery is breathtaking. The trail may be a challenge for a casual run and may be ideal for a workout because of the steep track. But with the stunning scenery, one might not mind going all the way to the finish.
29. Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Jackson Hole is a place with high elevation providing a very scenic view for almost every outdoor adventure. Regardless of the season, you’ll always have something to do at Jackson Hole. During the winter you can go snowboarding, snowshoeing, skiing and cross-country skiing. During the spring, you can go road biking, road running, white water paddling and more. There is also a plethora of wildlife which you have to watch out for. If you wish to go hiking, you can go to Shoal Falls, which is 10 miles round trip with beautiful views. Another great area is the Blue Miner Lake, which offers a 7-mile hike before reaching it. Other things you can do is backpacking or camping, cycling, climbing, fat biking, flat water paddling, mountain biking, snowboarding and skiing, white water paddling and trail running. You can go Skiing or snowboarding at Old Pass Road, Snake River Dike or Darby Canyon. These are amazing destinations for snow sports. For biking, you can go to Jimmy’s Mom Trail, JHMR Bike Park or Cache Creek. For climbing, you can go to Symmetry Spire, Teewinot or Rock Springs Buttress.
30. Las Vegas, Nevada
When you think of Las Vegas, outdoor adventures may not be at the top of your to-do list. But Las Vegas actually has a lot to offer when it comes to outdoor activities. If you like scenic hiking, you can go hiking at the Valley of Fire. There are many astounding rock formations and you can even see native American petroglyphs inscribed at some rocks. The Valley of Fire is also great for photography. If you can’t bring a bike with you, you can rent bikes at Las Vegas Cyclery and head to Red Rock Canyon. You are sure to have a scenic bike ride at Red Rock Canyon with the sandstone bluffs, rock formations and waterfall oasis. You could also go ziplining at Bootleg Canyon. There is also the Las Vegas Ski and Snowboard Resort which is ideal for both beginners and experienced skiers. The place is nearly 2,600 miles above sea level and you will surely love snow sports. With the sand dunes in Las Vegas, you can actually go dune buggy racing which lets you be more in tune with the desert while having a lot of fun doing it. Las Vegas isn’t just about the glitz and glam, it is also a great destination for outdoor adventures.
31. Boone, North Carolina
Boone is a delightful historical destination in North Carolina. The place is closely related to the renowned explorer Daniel Boone. Boone, with its clear and fast rivers, is ideal for kayaking or rafting. If you love plants and flowers, you will love Daniel Boone Native Garden with its expansive collection of trees, plants, flowers and shrubs. Rare and endangered species of plants can be found at the three-acre Daniel Boone Native Garden. Climbing on the Grandfather Mountain will give you a spectacular view from its top. Boone also has climbing areas for all skill levels. Whether you are looking for a challenge or an easy climb, Boone has it for you. You can go white water rafting on wild rivers such as Wilson Creek and Nolichucky River. You can also go kayaking and canoeing alone or with your family with the services they can provide. You can go on a scenic water adventure through the New River or go on a several night canoe or kayak camping adventures, that has stops at the New River State Park. Winters are quite long in Boone, making it one of the best adventure trips for snow sports. You can go to the Appalachian Ski Mountain, Sugar Mountain Resort or the Beech Mountain Resort if you wish to go skiing and snowboarding.
32. Grand Marais, Minnesota
Grand Marais is a historical place, as it was originally a Native American settlement. It has some of the most incredible visages in the region. You can go kayaking in Lake Superior and even look down through the deep clear water to see the bottom. Kayaking in Lake Superior will give you a memorable experience and you will be sure to keep coming back. It can be quite cold around Lake Superior, so wear warm clothes, even if you feel like you don’t need any. You can also go hiking at Sweetheart’s Bluff, which offers a scenic lake view. Grand Marais also has an annual event called the Fisherman’s Picnic, which is one of the most popular annual events they have. If you love fishing, you will want to be part of the celebration. When you wish to go camping, you can do so at the Municipal Campground which is just at the base of Sweetheart’s Bluff. It’s spacious, peaceful, remote, and distant from city noise, yet still close to downtown. Other hiking and areas for scenic views are the Devil Track River Gorge, Pincushion Mountain, Cascade River Trails and Kadunce River.
33. Hanalei, Hawaii
Hanalei has beaches with golden sands and has bays that have astounding coral reefs. You can do a lot of activities on the beaches such as sandcastles, frisbee and of course water sports. You can windsurf at Hanalei and it can leave you exhilarated. You can also go fishing for your supper. If you wish to be even closer to nature, you can go scuba diving and see the coral reefs and ocean life up close. You’ll be mesmerized with the wonders of the ocean. And you’ll realize how wonderful the world is from the bottom of the ocean. You can also go swimming in the beautiful waters at the beaches and enjoy the clear waters. You could also go boating or kayaking and enjoy the scenic views. Hanalei can be one of the best adventure trips if you love beaches. It’s great during the summer but water gets a bit rough during the winter. However, there are areas which still remain great all throughout the year. Areas such as the Waikoko and the Black Pot remain amazing throughout the year.
34. Seattle, Washington
Seattle is referred to as the “Emerald City” because of its lush green forests. However, some of the forest areas of the emerald city are not a good place for visitors to go to because of the cougars, bears and other dangerous wildlife that can be encountered. You can do a lot of cycling in Seattle because of the bike trails they have such as the Burke Gilman Trail. Cycling around Seattle is the best way for visitors to take in the fresh Pacific Northwestern breeze, which they’re famous for. The Burke Gilman Trail offers a 21-mile stretch from the Lake Washington to Puget Sound. You can watch boats going about as you cycle. You should be sure to visit Golden Garden Parks for it is renowned for its majestic sunsets. It is something you don’t want to miss when visiting Seattle. You can also check out Discovery Park, which is one of the best urban regenerations in North America. You could also go to the 300-acre Seward Park. Bald eagles can be found there, along with other amazing wildlife. At Lake Union, you can rent canoes for use and cruise around the area. If you want to, they offer different types of boat rides for you to see the grandeur of the lake.
35. Montauk, New York
Montauk is a historic place and a popular getaway from the hustle and bustle of New York. Montauk offers white sand beaches and miles of trails for hiking. The Montauk Point Lighthouse is a national historic site that gives you a mesmerizing scenic view of the Atlantic Ocean. There is over 130 steps to climb to the top and you’ll surely love the view. The Hither Hills State Park is great for camping as it’s on the Atlantic Ocean and with its biodiversity, visitors can go fishing, biking, hiking, hunting and much more at the park. You can also visit the Shadmoor State Park which offers hiking trails and historic areas having two WWII bunkers waiting for you to check out. If you wish to go fishing in Montauk, you can do so at Lake Montauk, which is the main port of the city, and has the biggest sporting and commercial fish fleets in the state. You can also go surfing at the Montauk Point State Park. It offers a mesmerizing view of the Atlantic Ocean and is also a great spot for hunting. You can visit more of the city on horseback at the Deep Hollow Ranch. You can explore the gorgeous coastlines of the United States and can even be guided through a 3,000-acre of countryside and beaches.
36. Haleiwa, Hawaii
Haleiwa is near Waikiki, just about an hour away. Haleiwa is one of the best adventure trips for people of love water sports, especially surfing. You can go to one of the longest stretch of beaches in the world, Ehukai Beach, which is where the longest running surf competition series is held, the Vans Triple Crown. You can surf or watch the professionals do their thing. If you just wish to relax, you can go to Laniakea Beach where you can see Hawaiian green sea turtles up close in their habitat. Haleiwa also has a Dole pineapple plantation, which has a botanical maze. The maze used to be the largest as of 2008, and can be a great way for you to have fun and see if you can make it out of the place. You can also rent a kayak or any other water vessel and explore the place at your own pace. You can paddle up close to the historic Haleiwa Bridge. As you go about your cruise, you might even see wild peacocks and green turtles along the shoreline. Haleiwa is simply amazing and a great destination for surfers and surfing enthusiasts.
37. Salt Lake City, Utah
There is an abundance of outdoor adventures in Salt Lake City. At different locations, you can go backcountry skiing, backpacking or camping, cross country skiing, climbing, fat biking, cycling, fishing, mountain biking, hiking, road running, snowshoeing, skiing, snowboarding, trail running and more. Salt Lake City is popular for its powder. There are seven ski resorts near town. You can go snowshoeing at Lamb’s Canyon and traffic is light during the winter. For cross country skiing, you can go to Union Pacific Rail State Park which is 100-feet wide, 28 miles long and has great scenery. You can even see wildlife as you ski. Enjoy snowshoeing at Catherine’s Pass or just go hiking, which is splendid during the warmer months because of the amazing scenery. If you wish to go climbing, head to Challenge Buttress. However, the area may be better suited for more experienced climbers. In Salt Lake, you can go trail running at City Creek, which is a challenging trail that’s just by downtown. You can go fishing at the Wasatch Range. Don’t go fishing at Great Salt Lake. There isn’t much there.
38. Phoenix, Arizona
Phoenix offers a lot of outdoor adventures. You can check out Tonto Natural Bridge Falls and be amazed by the majestic structure. If you wish to have the best motorcycle ride, you can go to the Bartlett Dam and ride on the smooth asphalt. For a great hiking experience, you can go to Lost Dutchman State Park. Even with the heat, the flora and fauna of the area makes it tolerable for you to go on a hike. You can immerse yourself in the desert environment and enjoy the scenery as you get up close with southwestern nature. If you wish to cruise around a desert on a motor bike, you can do so at the South Mountain Park and Elliot Road. You can also go hiking at the McDowell Mountain Regional Park where they even offer reptile feeding. You can also see the majestic Saguaro Cactus at the McDowell Mountain Regional Park. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy hiking and at the same time getting to know the environment and its wildlife and plant species. For the best rock climbing experience, you can go to the Lookout Mountain Preserve. Lookout Mountain Preserve isn’t for novices however. Give it a go if you’re an experienced climber.
39. Salida, Colorado
Salida actually means exit in Spain. However, Salida actually has a lot of opportunities for outdoor adventures. For cycling, it offers tracks for both easy and challenging cruises. You can go to the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail, Rainbow Trail, Colorado Trail and Great Divide Mountain Bike Trail if you wish to go cycling. Each offers different cycling experiences so you can have multiple choices based on what you want. During the winter, you can go to the Monarch Mountain and go skiing on a 14,000 feet mountain. Monarch Mountain is also great for the family. For water sports, you can head out to the Rocky Mountain Outdoor Center where white water kayaking, inflatable kayaking, white water rafting, rock climbing and mountain biking is made available. You can even take a guided tour or have professionals teach you the water sports at Rocky Mountain Outdoor Center. You’re sure to have a blast with all the outdoor activities to choose from. You’ll never run out of things to do at the Rocky Mountain Outdoor Center. You can also experience dog sled rides at Salida, where you can take rides of between one to three hours, and of course, get to know the huskies.
40. Fayetteville, West Virginia
Fayetteville offers a lot of outdoor activities. You can go rock climbing at the River Gorge. Aside from rock climbing, you can also go rappelling there. Professionals will teach you the way of how to rock climb and rappel. You can also rent or buy bikes and go cycling there, which also offers scenic views. They have a 40-60 mile single track which has different types of challenges for cyclists of all skill levels. You can also go fishing and boat paddling at River Gorge. There’s just so much to do and you won’t run out of fun outdoor activities. Hiking is also a great way to explore and be close to nature at the New River Gorge. You can have great experiences white water rafting, which can give you a rush of excitement the challenge can bring. Ziplining is also offered, as you follow the trail of the river which is exhilarating with great scenic views from above gorge.
41. Valdez, Alaska
Valdez has had some really rough times in the past. The most well-known disaster probably was the Exxon oil tanker spill in 1989. Today, you won’t see any indications of spills anywhere and Valdez is home to a wide range of wildlife. You can participate in a lot of water sports at Valdez, including rafting and kayaking. You can even go fishing and catch such fish as halibut, salmon among others. During the winter, you can go to the Chugach Mountains to go heli-skiing. The 600 to 900 inches of snow is perfect for snowboarding. You can also go cross-country skiing there. There is also a frozen waterfall during the winter that you can challenge yourself to climb. Getting to the top gives you an incredible view of the horizon making the effort of your climb really worth it. When you get to Valdez, make sure you don’t miss out on all the snow sports that you can try out. The area is perfect for snow sports and if you love snow sports, Valdez may be one of the best adventure trips you could ever have. Valdez is also great for the water sports, you will have an unforgettable experience trying out fishing at Valdez.
42. Gunnison, Colorado
Gunnison is an outdoor adventure haven because of the nearby surrounding areas which are natural recreation areas, national parks, ski areas, mesas, mountains and rivers. Just with that, you’re sure to do a lot at Gunnison. To start, you can go camping or backpacking. If you wish to enjoy water sports, you can go to Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Curecanti National Recreation Area and the Blue Mesa Reservoir. You can go canoeing, water skiing, fishing, parasailing and more at those areas. Sailboats are made available. If you wish to go climbing, you can head to Hartman Rocks Recreation Area and Black Canyon which also provides a great view of the surrounding area. During the winter, you can do winter sports at the Gunnison Nordic Center which also has cross-country trails. You can go skiing, ice-skating, snowmobiling and more. The place is perfect for snow sports and you’ll love doing whatever winter sports you can. It is a great place for learning and practicing winter sports. You can also go biking with the 750-mile trail at Gunnison. You can bring, buy or rent out a mountain bike and blaze your way on the tracks. You’ll surely love what Gunnison has in store for you.
43. Waterloo, Iowa
If you love cycling, Waterloo can be one of the best adventure trips you can have with its world class manufacturers of bikes. Some of the best bikes in the world are manufactured here. You can take a trip at Trek or Waterford Precision Cycle and see how they produce the best steel-frame bikes. The city plans to have cycling as their main means of commuting from place to place in the future, which makes the place ideal for individuals or families who love being active. With more bikes and less pollution, you’re sure to enjoy the fresh air that soothes you as you go about your cruise around the city. With their bike programs, you won’t run out of bike trails to tackle. If you want to go off-road, you can go mountain biking at Devil’s Lake State Park. In Waterloo of course, it’s not just all about biking. You can also go windsurfing, sailing, canoeing and kayaking on Lake Mendota. The area is great for watersports and also offers amazing scenic views. During the winter, you can still have outdoor adventures with numerous city parks where you can still do outdoor activities. There are six city parks that have cross-country skiing trails for snow sports lovers to enjoy.
44. Denver, Colorado
Denver is an outdoor adventure paradise with the variety of outdoor activities. The Mile High City has plenty of bike lanes, well-maintained city parks and more. If you wish to cruise around the city, you can go biking at the Greenway Trail, which is nearly 30 miles. You can explore the place at your own pace cycling around the city. You can also go white water rafting at Clear Creek, where you can choose options based on the difficulty of the trip. If you want go kayaking, you can do so at the South Platte River. The area is good for beginners. You can also rent bikes and go cycling in the area that offers mesmerizing scenery. Visit Cherry Creek Trail if you wish to go running, biking or hiking. The Cherry Creek Trail runs along a gorgeous creek. If you want to do some recreational activities in the heart of the city, you can go to Washington Park, which is one of the most elegant places to visit. The park has 155 acres of pristine land and has two majestic flower gardens. You’re sure to love Washington Park if you want to enjoy outdoor activities.
45. Truckee, California
Truckee is great for summertime adventures. Go backpacking at Lake Tahoe and the Sierra Nevada area. Be sure to be prepared if you’re going on a multi-day trip. Truckee has amazing beaches. There is the China Cove Beach which can be accessed through the Donner Memorial State Park. The beach is a sight to behold and you might not want to leave the place. If you love beaches, China Cove Beach should be on your bucket list. Another great beach is the Sand Harbor Beach in the Sand Harbor State Park. With Donner Lake only minutes away from Truckee, you can be sure to do a lot of different outdoor adventures. During the winter, you can go snowboarding, cross country and alpine skiing. You can also go boating and fishing at the lake and have a great time catching fish in the area. There are areas for mountain climbing. Of course, you can also do plenty of water sports such as stand-up paddle boarding, jet skiing, kayaking and more. Head out for hiking, running or biking at the area which lets you see an amazing views of the area. They also offer horseback riding.
46. Colorado Springs, Colorado
Colorado Springs is one of the best training grounds for athletes. If you are looking for really challenging outdoor activities, this is the place for you. Colorado Springs is where the United States Olympic Training Center and Carmichael Training Systems train their athletes. With the great weather of Colorado Springs, like 250 sunny days annually, the city attracts a lot of attention from thrill seekers and hardcore athletes to train or just go on a challenging outdoor adventure. There are world class trails for mountain biking, trail running, cycling, hiking, climbing and even caving. The foothills of Pikes Peak creates ideal grounds for backpacking, hiking, biking and exploring the regal area. The Pueblo Whitewater Park is great for whitewater rafting and the south bank of the park even has the largest mural in the entire world. Not just white water rafting, you can also go swimming, kayaking, body surfing, tubing and more at the park. The best place for climbing at Colorado Springs is the Garden of the Gods which is actually a national landmark and is breathtakingly majestic. The Garden of the Gods is a mecca for climbers.
47. Leavenworth, Washington
You will surely love Leavenworth with the number of outdoor activities you could do throughout the year. You can go fly fishing, shore fishing or boat fishing at the Bavarian Village. The best part is, no matter what time you come to visit, there is always a great spot for you to sink your line into. There are many bodies of water in Leavenworth which you can enjoy water sports. You can enjoy canoeing and kayaking at the Wenatchee River, Icicle River or Lake Wenatchee. You can also go camping there. During the winter, you can go skiing, dog sledding, snowmobiling, ice climbing, ice skating, snow tubing, snowshoeing and more at Leavenworth. For some of the snow sports, you can go to Leavenworth Ski Hill, Mission Ridge or Crystal. You can also go on a paragliding trip and have an incredible experience gliding over the entirety of the Columbia Valley. For the best hiking trail, you can go to the Fourth of July Creek Trail which has steep elevation and scenic views. You can also go hunting for your next meal. If you want to go climbing, you can head to Snow Creek Hill which has some of the best climbing areas.
48. Billings, Montana
Billings is next to Yellowstone River and is a historic place. Explore Cave State Park and be awed at the drawings inscribed on stones found in the caves. The drawings were made by prehistoric inhabitants over 2,000 years ago. Other than the drawings, you can also see thousands of artifacts and more paintings all across the Pictograph Cave. For boating and kayaking, you can head to Riverfront Park and enjoy the great views as you cruise around the lake. There are also hiking trails found at the park if you wish to go hiking, jogging or running. During the winter, you can also go ice fishing at Lake Josephine. Explore Yellowstone Cellars and Winery to see how they go about processing the wine. If you want to get close to wildlife, you can go to Pryor Mountains and Lake Elmo State Park, where a variety of wildlife are inhabitants of the area. Head to the Bighorn Canyon Recreational Area and go biking, fishing, hiking, boating, picnicking, horseback riding, visiting historic ranches or wildlife watching.
49. Yachats, Oregon
Yachats is home to great hiking trails and scenic areas by the coastline of Oregon. Go hiking at beautiful Cape Perpetua which is indeed a great scenic area. You’ll be taken away by the beauty and serenity of the coastline. There are many hiking areas at Cape Perpetua and each one offers a grand view of the place. The coast certainly will take your breath away with its dramatic vistas and grandeur. You can also experience a unique biking trip with the gravel at Yachats. The Oregon Coast Gravel Epic is situated in the Siuslaw National Forest. The great thing about gravel riding is that it is a mix of the different components of cycling which are mountain biking, road biking and cyclo-cross. You’ll still be close with nature as you travel along the trail and tracks offers beautiful green grass, trees and forest. Perfect for a relaxing or vigorous bike ride. You can also explore a mysterious lighthouse that can be seen from highway 101. The lighthouse is called the Cleft of the Rock Lighthouse. You can also cruise through the 9-mile scenic route of the Yachats River Road and head up to the Yachats Covered Bridge.
50. Lander, Wyoming
There are a lot of great places to visit at Lander, especially great outdoor adventures. At the great Wind River Mountains, you can go fishing. You can have a great time fishing for your next meal and there are even chances of getting rare cutthroats and golden trout in some of the lakes. You should make sure that are well-supplied, as fishing at the Wind River Mountains could mean multiday fishing as the rivers and lakes of the area are miles away from the nearest road. It could also be the great thing about the Wind River Mountains though because less traffic means fatter and bigger fish. If you wish to go fishing at a place that’s nearer to the town, you can go to the Lower Middle Fork Popo Agie. The middle fork lets you catch brown, brook and rainbow trout. The area might be quite challenging, though, because you’ll actually need to hide since the fish have already seen way too many lures and flies. Some of the spots are also slippery. At Lander, you can go hiking at the Red Canyon Rim. Going to the Red Canyon Rim however may seem more like an exploration than it is just a hiking trip. You get to poke and be up close to some of the whimsical features of the canyon.
[toc]
Each of the 50 on this list offers a unique adventure experience. You can choose and decide the ones which best suit your wants or needs. Travel and get to know the world as much as you can for you to also grow, learn and gain a vast and diverse experience of the world. We are fortunate to have the privilege to travel. Remember, you are not a tree. If you don’t like where you are, move. Travel, be inspired and inspire.
[jbio template=”bootbomb0″]
0 comments