Not everyone likes to spend their vacation lazing around on a beach. With more of us leading a sedentary lifestyle, sometimes it can be nice to get away and be active. Of course, you don’t have to venture outside the states to satisfy the adventurer within you. There are lots of incredible outdoor holiday opportunities across America, as detailed below.
See the parks
America’s national parks are great places to get lost in the expansiveness of nature. From the high peaks of Rocky Mountain National Park’s ‘fourteeners’ to the volcanic wolf-inhabited wilderness of Yellowstone, there are plenty of adventures to choose from. You can explore these parks solo or take small group guided tours. As well as natural wonders, these parks often have plenty of activities to choose from including cycling, rafting, climbing, kayaking and all manner of other extreme sports.
Hike the Appalachian Trail
The famed Appalachian Trail is known around the world for being one of the toughest but most scenic hikes. Hikers will walk from hut to hut across 2160 miles, powering through all manner of weather conditions. Even if you choose to only walk a tiny cross-section, it can be an invigorating experience. There are many natural wonders and sight-seeing opportunities along the way too which are worth taking detours to.
Walk the canyons
For those wanting to experience a slice of the desert, the Grand Canyon and Monument Valley are must-see sights. You can take tours of these natural wonders with a Navajo guide, or you can rough it yourself. In the area you also have Las Vegas, The Hoover Dam and many less known parks such as Goblin and Dead Horse Point. You can also rent a car and try a stretch of Route 66.
Hit the slopes
For those looking for a sportier holiday, why not give skiing or snowboarding a go? The US has some of the greatest resorts in the world including the likes of Jackson Hole, Snowbird and Deer Valley. You can soak up the scenic mountain views whilst getting an adrenalin fix and staying fit. Right now the ski season is nearing its end, but plan ahead for early next year now and you could get yourself some good deals.
Explore the civil war battlefields
Get to better know the history and geography of America through a tour of some of its civil war battlefields. These include the likes of Gettysburg, Antietam and Petersburg, as well as the Appomattox Court House – a scene of one of the most climactic battles. There are also many museums and cemeteries included in such tours. Alternatively, you can plan your own itinerary.
Where are your favourite places to get outdoors in the USA? I’d love to hear your suggestions for best active US holiday ideas below.
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