United States
The U.S. is an adventurer's paradise. Top of the list is undoubtedly the iconic National Parks. Highlights include hiking or backpacking around Yellowstone's geysers, Olympic's diverse ecosystems, North Cascades' alpine landscapes, Rocky Mountains' towering peaks, and Grand Teton's stunning vistas.
Popular US Adventure Trips
Snapshot of Adventure Vacations in the USA
Signing up for an adventure vacation in the United States is a great opportunity to connect with nature and experience some of the best natural scenery in the country. From the geothermal wonders of Yellowstone to the rugged coastlines of Olympic National Park, there are endless landscapes to explore.
Yellowstone National Park serves as nature's playground, with its famed geysers like Old Faithful and majestic wildlife roaming freely. It's a place where earth's raw power is visible at every turn, offering hiking trails that traverse through steamy landscapes and past thundering waterfalls.
Olympic National Park provides a stark contrast with its lush rainforests, alpine meadows, and remote beaches. It's a world where you can hike in the shadow of ancient trees in the Hoh Rainforest in the morning and explore tide pools on the rugged Pacific coastline by the afternoon.
Moving inland, North Cascades National Park is a hidden gem with its dramatic alpine scenery. It's less crowded, allowing for serene hikes and breathtaking views of glacier-clad peaks. This park is a paradise for climbers and hikers seeking solitude and untouched wilderness.
In the heart of the country, the Rocky Mountains unfold with their awe-inspiring peaks and vibrant ecosystems. Rocky Mountain National Park offers everything from leisurely nature walks to challenging mountain summits, all set against the backdrop of Colorado's stunning scenery.
Lastly, Grand Teton National Park combines the allure of rugged peaks with serene valley floors. The dramatic skyline of the Teton Range is an iconic symbol of adventure, offering trails that range from easy walks to strenuous climbs, appealing to adventurers of all levels.
Each of these destinations encompass the spirit of American wilderness and adventure. Whether you're seeking the thrill of a strenuous hike, the peace of a secluded campsite, or the joy of witnessing wildlife in its natural habitat, the national parks of the United States provide a backdrop for unforgettable adventures.
Adventure Travel FAQs
Yes, if you book through Skyhook, you're booking with a local tour operator who offers fully guided, multi-day trips to the National Parks.
On a guided trip you don't have to worry about the logistics of arranging your active vacation. You get the knowledge and expertise of a certified guide, and you join up with other like-minded adventurers.
The best times of year for multi-day hikes in National Parks largely depend on the specific park and the climate of the region.
However, generally speaking, late spring through early fall (May to October) are often considered the best times for multi-day hikes due to milder weather and generally clearer trails.
Here's a breakdown based on different types of parks:
Mountainous Parks (e.g., Rocky Mountains, Grand Teton, North Cascades):
Summer (June to August):
Ideal for higher elevation trails, as snow has typically melted, allowing access to backcountry areas and alpine routes.
Fall (September to October):
Fewer crowds and beautiful fall colors, though weather can be more unpredictable, and snow may start in October.
Desert Parks (e.g., parts of Olympic, certain areas outside traditional forested parks):
Spring (March to May):
Cooler temperatures and blooming wildflowers make for pleasant hiking conditions.
Fall (September to November):
Similar to spring, the cooler temperatures return, making hiking more comfortable than in the harsh summer months.
Coastal and Forested Parks (e.g., parts of Olympic National Park):
Summer (June to August):
Though warmer, the coastal areas tend to have milder temperatures than inland, making summer hikes more manageable.
Fall (September to October):
Less rain than late fall and winter, cooler temperatures, and fewer crowds make for excellent hiking conditions.
Southwestern and Canyon Parks (e.g., areas around the Grand Canyon, not traditionally forested):
Spring (March to May):
Before the scorching heat of summer sets in, making hikes more enjoyable.
Fall (September to November):
After the summer heat has subsided but before winter cold sets in.
The National Park Service website (nps.gov) is the best starting point for information on all U.S. National Parks, including maps, entrance fees, activity guides, lodging information, and safety tips.
Adventure vacations in the USA cater to a wide variety of interests, from wilderness exploration to adrenaline-pumping activities. Here are some popular adventure vacations that attract thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike:
1. National Park Explorations: Visiting the U.S. National Parks like Yellowstone, Grand Canyon, Zion, and Yosemite offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, rock climbing, kayaking, and wildlife watching. Each park has its unique landscapes, from towering mountain peaks to deep canyons and lush forests.
2. Hiking the Appalachian Trail or Pacific Crest Trail: For the ultimate trekking challenge, these long-distance trails offer months of hiking across diverse terrains and stunning landscapes. Shorter sections can be hiked for those with limited time.
3. Whitewater Rafting: The Colorado River in the Grand Canyon, the Salmon River in Idaho, and the Gauley River in West Virginia are just a few places where adventurers can experience thrilling whitewater rafting.
4. Skiing and Snowboarding: Winter sports enthusiasts can head to places like Aspen, Colorado; Park City, Utah; or Jackson Hole, Wyoming, for world-class skiing and snowboarding amidst beautiful mountain scenery.
5. Mountain Biking: Moab in Utah is renowned for its challenging mountain biking trails. Other notable destinations include the trails around Lake Tahoe, the White Mountains of New Hampshire, and the forests of Bend, Oregon.
6. Rock Climbing: The USA is home to famous climbing spots such as Joshua Tree National Park, Yosemite National Park, and the Red River Gorge in Kentucky, catering to all levels from beginners to expert climbers.
7. Surfing: For those who love the ocean, the coasts of California, Hawaii, and Florida offer excellent surfing conditions. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced surfer, there's a wave for everyone.
8. Alaskan Adventures: Alaska offers unique wilderness adventures, including glacier hiking, dog sledding, bear watching, and Northern Lights viewing. Kayaking through fjords and ice fields provides a different perspective on this rugged landscape.
9. Scuba Diving: The Florida Keys, Hawaii, and California offer diverse underwater landscapes, including coral reefs, shipwrecks, and kelp forests, making them popular destinations for scuba divers.
10. Hot Air Ballooning: Experience the beauty of the American landscape from the sky with hot air balloon rides. Popular locations include the deserts of Arizona and New Mexico, the vineyards of Napa Valley, and the rocky landscapes of Colorado.