From Mountains to Coasts: 13 Outdoor Escapes – Travel And Tour World

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There is nothing quite like the great outdoors. From mountains to valleys and waterfalls to lakes, there are incredible outdoor destinations in America that are full of adventure and beauty. If you love to spend time outdoors like I do, the following 13 U.S. destinations need to be on your bucket list. These not only make for incredible vacation spots but they are surrounded by natural beauty and are packed with activities. These are some of the best travel destinations in the U.S. that outdoor enthusiasts will love.

Northwest

1. Kenai Peninsula, Alaska

The Kenai Peninsula is known as Alaska’s Playground and for good reason — there is so much to do and see here. Two must-visit destinations in the area include Kenai Lake and Kenai River, which are both popular for fishing and paddling. For a more challenging water adventure, head to Six Mile Creek for heart-racing whitewater rafting. You’ll also find dozens of incredible hikes as this area boasts one of the most developed trail systems in Alaska. Always stay alert and watch for wildlife during any outdoor adventure.

2. Cannon Beach, Oregon

Cannon Beach, with its picturesque rock formations like the famous Haystack Rock, is the ultimate destination for outdoor fun. Located along the Oregon Coast, this small town is near state parks such as Oswald West State Park and Ecola State Park, offering hiking trails, a lighthouse, and whale-watching opportunities. Cannon Beach has also received recognition as one of the world’s most beautiful places, so take plenty of time to enjoy the magical views.

3. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho

Yellowstone National Park should be at the top of every outdoor enthusiast’s bucket list. Featuring unique hydrothermal and geological features, one day is not enough to explore this vast park. Popular sites include Yellowstone Lake, Old Faithful, and Mammoth Hot Springs. Don’t miss hiking to Artist Paint Pots, fly fishing on the Madison River, and discovering lesser-known waterfalls.

Southwest

4. Lake Tahoe, Nevada and California

Lake Tahoe is filled with year-round outdoor activities for the entire family. Summer months offer boating, fishing, beach fun, and hiking trails. Winter brings stunning views and activities like skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, and ice skating. With 72 miles of shoreline and world-class ski resorts, there’s no shortage of options here.

5. Zion National Park, Utah

Zion National Park in southern Utah is known for its canyons, natural arches, red rocks, and beautiful skies. Popular hiking trails include Angels Landing and The Narrows, a top slot canyon hike. Easier hikes like the Lower Emerald Pool Trail and the Riverside Walk are also available. Zion is perfect for landscape photography with its breathtaking overlooks and natural features.

6. Boulder, Colorado

Located in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Boulder offers urban activities and some of the best outdoor recreational activities in the country. Enjoy 300 miles of hiking and biking trails, water activities, fishing, rock climbing, kayaking, and river rafting. In winter, try fat biking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, skiing, and snowboarding. Boulder promises endless outdoor fun.

Midwest

7. Cache River State Natural Area, Illinois

Cache River State Natural Area, located in Southern Illinois, is unforgettable with its stunning cypress trees and swampy areas. This area offers excellent paddling and fishing opportunities. While camping is not allowed within the area, there are nearby campgrounds for extended stays.

8. Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota

Voyageurs National Park is a water-based park filled with lakes and streams, perfect for camping and stargazing. All campsites require a watercraft to access, making it the ideal escape from the worries of the world. The unforgettable night skies make this park a must-visit.

South

9. Asheville, North Carolina

Tucked away in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville offers more than one million acres of protected wilderness. Activities include kayaking the French Broad River, fishing, chasing waterfalls like Looking Glass Falls, and riding the Sliding Rock Natural Waterslide. Explore the city and mountains by bike for even more fun.

10. Chattanooga, Tennessee

Chattanooga is an outdoor paradise with activities like whitewater rafting, rock climbing, and mountain biking. Enjoy paddling and hiking opportunities within a short drive of the city. Don’t miss the city parks and the must-visit Riverwalk along the Tennessee River.

Northeast

11. Catskill Mountains, New York

The Catskill Mountains in southeastern New York State offer impressive trails through forests and to beautiful waterfalls. Enjoy trails for all skill levels and distances. The plentiful lakes provide solitude in nature for kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing.

12. Burlington, Vermont

Burlington sits on the eastern shore of Lake Champlain and offers activities like picnics in city parks, visiting waterfalls like Bingham Falls, Bristol Falls, and Moss Glen Falls, and exploring Mount Mansfield State Park and the Rock Point Trails. North Beach Park and nearby golf courses add to the fun.

13. Acadia National Park, Maine

Acadia National Park offers hiking with breathtaking overlooks, 45 miles of historic carriage roads for biking, stargazing, and sunrise views. Swim at Echo Lake Beach or explore tide pools. Visit historic places within the park, including fire towers, lighthouses, and bridges.

What other outdoor travel destinations across the U.S. would you add to this list? Have you visited any of these destinations? Let us know in the comments. For outdoor supplies, we recommend REI and Backcountry for all your must-have gear.