Three U.S. destinations for an adventure-filled vacation
For adventure enthusiasts, the U.S. is the ultimate playground destination. With its vast, diverse landscapes offering everything from mountains, canyons, forests, oceans, and deserts, you’ll find endless opportunities to get your heart pumping in the stunning natural scenery of this amazing destination.
Here, we dive into three of the best places to visit in the U.S. for an unforgettable, adventure-filled vacation.
Moab, Utah
The landscape of the American Southwest is nothing short of ethereal; towering sandstone monoliths, deep red canyons and lazy rivers offer plenty of thrilling activities to try in this arid wilderness. Moab sits between two national parks, Arches and Canyonlands, in which intrepid explorers can explore the undulating terrain on foot, bike, or by embarking on an off-road jeep tour.
The sheer cliffs and spires surrounding Moab make it a top destination for rock climbers. Routes vary in intensity and there’s something to suit all abilities, with the most experienced able to test their skills on the Castleton Tower and Fisher Towers. For the ultimate adventure, try canyoneering – a journey including hiking, climbing and rappelling.
Nearby, the peaks of the La Sal Mountains soar up to 12,721 feet above sea level, offering incredible views of the surrounding desert vista. To enjoy Moab safely and avoid extreme temperatures, plan your visit in the springtime or fall and be sure to educate yourself on the signs of altitude sickness.
Denali National Park, Alaska
If you’re seeking an untamed wilderness amidst pristine peaks and glacial lakes, head to the Denali National Park in Alaska. The remote expanses of this winter wonderland are perfect for mountaineering, hiking and wild camping, with plenty of wildlife such as bears to discover amidst the breathtaking scenery. The backcountry has many trails, including the Triple Lakes Trail and Savage River Loop, but you can also make your own path so long as you pack the right gear and travel responsibly.
For something a little different, take to the skies with a flightseeing tour. Some even offer the opportunity to land on a glacier, so you can walk across the ice and immerse yourself in the panoramic views of pine forests and glistening valleys far below.
June to early September is considered the best time to visit Denali, as the weather is more moderate and the entire park is typically open. Throughout the winter months, however, this stunning landscape offers adventurers prime winter sports opportunities as well as the chance to spot the Northern Lights.
Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Nestled between the majestic Teton Mountains and the Gros Ventre Range, Jackson Hole is a paradise for adventurous travelers. This rugged valley is great for year-round activities, with winter skiing and snowboarding giving way to summer hiking, rafting and wildlife tours. The mountain resort here is well-known for its steep terrain and deep powder-soft snow, where beginner, intermediate and advanced skiers and snowboarders can enjoy a variety of slopes.
In high summer, whitewater rafting is an exhilarating experience to try in Jackson Hole. The Snake River bursts into life with rapids, particularly throughout a section called “The Big Kahuna”. To the north, Grand Teton National Park lures explorers and nature lovers with over 200 miles of trails, ranging from easy walks to multi-day treks. The park and surrounding areas are teeming with wildlife, including bears, elk, and wolves.
Where will you go first?
For an adventure-filled vacation, these three hot spots are a great place to start when exploring the U.S. Whether you’re a seasoned thrill seeker or want to test yourself for the first time, these destinations will leave you with lifelong memories and a healthy boost of adrenaline.
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