10 of the Best Outdoorsy Destinations in the USA This Spring
Snow melting into gushing waterfalls, wildlife awakening from winter slumber, hiking trails warmed by perfect temperatures — these are just a few of the reasons to get outdoors this spring with a vacation to some of the best parks, lakes and islands in the United States. Check out which nature-fueled escapes top our spring vacation bucket list!
Looking to get outdoors this spring? These spring vacations to national parks, lakes, and beaches will fill you with inspiration for planning your trip.
Snow melting into gushing waterfalls, wildlife awakening from winter slumber, hiking trails warmed by perfect temperatures — these are just a few of the reasons to get outdoors this spring with a vacation to some of the best parks, lakes and islands in the United States.
These nature-fueled escapes buzz with activity come summer, but spring typically means fewer crowds and lower prices that come with the shoulder season.
Whether it’s a national park road trip, family camping for spring break, or desert canyon hikes in the perfect weather, these outdoorsy destinations top our spring vacation bucket list!
Best Outdoorsy Destinations in the USA for Spring Vacation
These outdoorsy spring vacation destinations have gorgeous weather, sun-soaked beaches, and adventurous hiking trails.
Arches National Park, Utah
By Jarrod of Ramble Around the World
During much of the year, Arches National Park can be filled with tourists, covered in snow or scorching under Utah’s desert sun. But in spring, it transforms into an oasis with flowing streams and blossoming flower beds sprouting at the heels of its 2,000-plus sandstone arches.
While the park never seems overcrowded, spring is the perfect time of year to visit because of the fewer visitors and better weather. Sitting 5,600 feet above sea level, springtime temperatures are typically mild in the mornings and evenings with a perfectly warm setting during the midday sun.
Along with its famous named arches that you can hike to (and the hundreds more that are easily spotted), the park is paved with miles of beautifully scenic roads. Without leaving your vehicle, you can pass by ancient natural rock formations like the petrified dunes, naturally formed stone-columned skyscrapers, the 128-foot-tall Balanced Rock and Ute Indian petroglyphs, rock art dating back hundreds of years.
But hiking is truly recommended in this beautiful park, especially to Delicate Arch, which is arguably the most famous arch in the U.S. and is used on Utah license plates. From beginners to experienced day hikers, there are trails for all ages and skill levels.
Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
By Ann of While We Were Wandering
Mount Rainier is an American icon. With its snow-capped peaks, beautiful wildflowers and amazing hiking trails, its no surprise that it receives about two million visitors a year. Obviously, Mount Rainier should be on everybody’s bucket list, but to experience the best this national park has to offer, consider making your trip during the spring.
What is so special about Mount Rainier in spring? Well first and foremost, you beat the summer rush. While beautiful, Mount Rainier is by no means a secret destination. Travelers from around the world come here, and summer is by far the most crowded. While the chances of being completely alone are slim to none regardless of when you visit, spring is considerably less crowded than summer.
Another reason to come in spring are the wildflowers that bloom during this time of year. Avalanche lilies, lupines, and Sitka valerian cover the landscape in the most picturesque colors.
Not only can we thank the seasonal rainfall and snowmelt for the wildflowers, but also for the waterfalls within the region flowing at their strongest. There are more than 100 waterfalls in Mount Rainier National Park, and spring is by far the best time to see them.
Maui, Hawaii
By Michelle of Harbors and Havens
A dream destination for outdoorsy types, the Hawaiian island of Maui brims with epic hikes, snorkeling spots, stunning beaches and more. The second busiest of the Hawaiian islands behind Oahu and it’s capital of Honolulu, Maui in spring is ideal for vacations, as the rainy season tapers off come April and the summer crowds don’t start peaking until June.
It’s a brief window of ultra-pleasant conditions, sure, but Maui’s natural beauty is hard to beat, even if you do bump into a few more tourists than you tend to prefer. It’s easy to escape the bustle by trading the most popular sandy swaths for more hidden beach coves past the resorts and condos or a trek along the trails of Haleakala National Park, the island’s shield volcano.
The tail end of the rainy season also means that waterfalls around the island will still be gushing and beautiful, as you can discover with a drive on the Road to Hana, a winding road trip past bamboo forests, black-sand beaches and dramatic cliffs to a remote town on the eastern end of the island that retains a retro feel.
You can expect spring crowds to surge around school break times in March and again past Memorial Day into June as summer vacations come into full swing. Opt for April or early to mid-May (or September/October for fall visits) for the best chance of lower prices and fewer bodies on the beach.
Use this guide to find the best locations and deals for hotels on Maui
Big Bend National Park, Texas
By Zach and Julie of Ruhls of the Road
Big Bend National Park is the perfect place to visit in spring. The mild weather, lack of crowds and incredible hikes and sites are what sets Big Bend apart from every other destination you can visit around the United States.
Big Bend is located in western Texas, where summer temperatures can get extremely high. Also, since it’s in a desert, Big Bend is extra dry and can feel much hotter in the sun. Therefore, the best time to visit is spring. Early in the season, daytime temps may still be in the 70s, building into the 80s and 90s by June, so you'll be able to sport a t-shirt and shorts without feeling uncomfortably warm.
Another reason to see Big Bend in spring is to avoid some of the busiest times of the year. You'll be able to see the South Rim viewpoint and swim in the hot springs without a huge line of people.
Since hiking Big Bend in spring is much more comfortable, head to paths like the Window Trail, Lost Mine Trail and South Rim. Plan your trip to Big Bend for this spring and be ready for the adventure of a lifetime!
Lake Tahoe, Nevada/California
By Christina of Travel2Next
Although Lake Tahoe is a year-round destination, one of the best times to visit is in spring. Between March and May, Lake Tahoe transforms from a winter wonderland to a fabulous beach destination.
There are plenty of amazing things to do in Lake Tahoe in spring. Time your visit to squeeze in a few days skiing or snowboarding at the end of the winter season, then end your vacation by chilling out by the pool.
Besides being able to catch some sun, spring is also far less crowded, and Lake Tahoe spring vacation prices are much more reasonable than during the height of summer. Since Lake Tahoe straddles both California and Nevada, you can choose from waterfront towns and villages in both states to base yourself.
Spring at Lake Tahoe is a fun time to visit for festivals. There’s a vibrant atmosphere during the South Lake Tahoe Earth Day celebrations in April, when the community of this Californian city gets together to celebrate the region’s natural beauty while focusing on the environment. Other spring festivals to mark on the calendar are the WinterWonderGrass California Music, with lively bluegrass concerts, and the Alpine Meadows Annual Snow Golf Tournament, a nine-hole golf tournament on a snowy course at a nearby ski resort.
Jackson Hole, Wyoming
By Megan of Red Around the World
Jackson Hole, Wyoming, is stunning at any time of year, but spring means you can avoid the big crowds and still see all the wildlife. If you visit in late spring, bears will be coming out of hibernation, so you might be able to see them, along with moose, coyotes, wolves, and bison. A wildlife safari is a must-do activity if you want to spot lots of animals, since the guides know just where to look for what and when.
In early spring, you may still be able to snowshoe your way around Grand Teton National Park. If not, then you can hike instead. Access to the park will be more limited, though, because the main scenic road doesn’t open to motor vehicles until May 1. While it’s closed, you can still walk, bike or ski on the road, depending on its condition.
Make sure to leave time to stroll around downtown Jackson and see the shops and galleries. Midday temps will likely be warm enough for walking around outside no matter if you're in town or the park. You'll find some of the best scenery in the country here and the Tetons will still be snowcapped, making it even better.
Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado
By Laura of Adrift Aesthetic
Traveling in the spring can mean questionable weather, depending on where you decide to venture in the United States. One place that's a perfect spring destination is Mesa Verde National Park, located in the southwest corner of Colorado.
This national park is known for its impressive collection of archeological sites. As you drive and hike along the edge of the canyons, you'll see historic dwellings built into the sandstone cliffs, created by the Ancestral Pueblo people hundreds of years ago. These are such unique buildings and homes, some of which could house over 100 people.
The park is located on top of multiple mesas, making the heat harder to bear in the dead of summer. By visiting in spring, hiking in the sun will be much more enjoyable, with light breezes to cool you off.
To get the most out of your trip, make sure you book a guided park ranger tour for a nominal fee. These excursions allow you to walk through the actual cliff dwellings and experience the sites up close. Tickets can only be purchased on-site or in the nearby town of Durango, Colorado, up to two days in advance, so they fill up quickly. However, traveling in the spring also means fewer visitors and a better chance of securing the tour you want.
Acadia National Park, Maine
By Lily of Imperfect Idealist
Acadia National Park is located along the coast of Maine, primarily on Mount Desert Island. It offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, from hiking to camping to fishing. Use this guide to plan a Boston to Acadia road trip.
The national park attracts millions of visitors each year, mostly from June to September. While Acadia is open year-round, many hotels, shops, visitor centers and attractions are closed in the winter months. To take better advantage of the park's offerings while beating the crowds, aim to visit from mid-April through May. While some shops may still be closed, most accommodations and park attractions will be open, and there will be fewer people on the hiking trails. Another bonus is that you may be able to get better views from the mountains, as some trees will still not have leaves yet.
Some highlights of the park include Cadillac Mountain, with a gorgeous summit view of the surrounding mountains and lakes at sunrise or sunset, and Beehive Trail, a near-vertical, thrilling hike.
In the park, you can also find the famous and elusive New England popovers (a light, puffy roll made from an egg batter) in Jordan Pond House, a restaurant with a panoramic view of the nearby pond and mountains.
Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
By Kelsey of Sights Better Seen
You’ll find the Grand Canyon on many a bucket list, and for good reason. If you’re eager to visit, consider planning your trip to the Grand Canyon in the spring, when crowds and temperatures are both lower than the popular summer months.
The weather will most likely be pretty mild in the spring — perfect for hiking! It can get quite cold in the winter and is often extremely hot in the summer. You should still keep an eye on the weather as conditions can vary, even from the rim, where it snows in winter, to the canyon floor, where temperatures can be 20 degrees warmer. Monsoon season also hasn’t hit yet in the spring, with most of the rainfall occurring in the summer months.
Cacti and desert wildflowers are stunning here, and most bloom in the spring. April may be the best month to go to witness the blossoms up on the rim and down in the canyon. They typically bloom at the rim from late April to May.
Spring is still the shoulder season, too, so there aren’t as many visitors as compared to the summer months. Just keep an eye on the school calendar and try to avoid spring break crowds.
Do note that the North Rim may still be closed in early spring (it opens mid-May), but you can still visit the more popular South Rim, which offers the most viewpoints, trails, hotels and services of the two.
Denali National Park, Alaska
By Michelle of Harbors and Havens
Summer is by far the busiest season to visit Alaska’s Denali National Park, given the locale’s blustery winter conditions that often span six months of the year or more. But a sliver in time when the snow begins to melt, the animals begin to creep out from their snowy naps, and park crews begin plowing the roads falls in the magical season of spring.
Arrive too early, say in March or early April, and you’ll likely find access extremely limited, even to reach Denali from Anchorage if conditions happen to be icy. But a trip later in April or early May in a temperate year means you can drive farther down Denali Park Road than allowed in summer when the tour buses are running.
Speaking of tours, those begin around mid-May and are the best way to see remote parts of the park without having to trek on foot, so aim for late spring to book sightseeing before the summer bustle sets in.
Keep in mind that while the park is open year-round (with a special winter visitor center housed in the Murie Science and Learning Center), most hotels and tourist services nearby don’t come to life until mid-May. The park does, however, have a campground at the entrance with free use in early spring.
10 of the Most Popular National Parks in the United States
Soaring mountains, vast canyons, gushing waterfalls and geysers — it’s no wonder these are the 10 most popular national parks in the United States. Use this list to pick where to go and where to avoid if you don’t want to deal with crowds. Stretching from the coast of Maine to the canyons of the West, these are some of the country’s greatest treasures.
These 10 most popular national parks in the US feature deep canyons, pointy peaks, and bubbling hot springs.
Soaring mountains, vast canyons, gushing waterfalls and geysers — it’s no wonder these are the 10 most popular national parks in the United States.
We used visitation numbers and annual reports from the National Park Service to find out which of the 63 national parks get the most tourists each year. You can use the list to pick where to go to see some of the most beautiful landscapes in the country. We’ve also included information on how to visit these spots in the low season for an uncrowded national park vacation.
Stretching from the coast of Maine to the canyons of the West, these are some of the country’s greatest treasures.
Top 10 Most Popular National Parks
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a crowd-pleaser along the border of Tennessee and North Carolina with a rolling landscape and epic trails. Free entry and few national parks in this part of the U.S. have kept it in the top spot for decades.
More than 500,000 acres of forests and mountains include parts of the bucket list Appalachian Trail.
Best View: Drive up to Clingmans Dome, the highest point in the park where you can take in views for miles from an observation tower.
When to go: Autumn leaf-peeping season is the prettiest but busy. Consider late spring for fewer crowds.
Here’s the full list of places to stay near Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Annual visitors: 12,547,743
Grand Canyon National Park
With sections up to 18 miles wide and a mile deep, the Grand Canyon in northern Arizona is unlike anything you will ever see. The Colorado River flows and cuts through layers of orange and rust-colored rock creating breathtaking scenes from the north and south rims.
You can casually take in the views along easy rim trails or by riding free park shuttles that stop at designated lookouts. Adventurers will want to step down into the canyon on hiking trails that lead all the way to the floor, where campgrounds and a hard to book lodge await.
Must-do: Catch a sunset or sunrise from viewpoints along Hermit Road.
When to go: Visit in early spring or fall for cooler weather and fewer people.
Annual visitors: 5,974,411
Rocky Mountain National Park
Just 70 miles from Denver, Rocky Mountain National Park has some 350 miles of hiking trails surrounded by forests, lakes, alpine tundra and snow-capped peaks.
Amongst the resident mammals here, you might spot elk, black bears, moose and bighorn sheep, sometimes right by the road.
Best drive: Trail Ridge Road takes you to an elevation of 12,000 feet with overlooks to stop and soak up the panoramas.
When to go: Summer and fall are the most crowded, so try late spring for wildflowers and warm sun after the snow clears from trails and roads.
Annual visitors: 4,670,053
These are the best places to stay near Rocky Mountain National Park
Zion National Park
Zion National Park is a gem in southern Utah, with a huge canyon to hike and explore. Driving into the park on the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway, you’ll zig-zag all the way down to the canyon floor.
Hiking is the top thing to do here, either along rims and ridges for views of pink and red cliffs, or at the bottom for rivers and waterfalls surrounded by soaring rock walls.
Best hike: The Narrows is a one-of-a-kind hike through the Virgin River as the walls of the canyon close in. The Riverside Walk gives a sneak peek with a much easier path on dry land.
When to go: Avoid May through September unless you want to contend with big crowds. Spring and fall can be chilly but great for hiking.
Annual visitors: 4,488,268
Yosemite National Park
The most popular of California’s nine national parks, Yosemite is well known for its granite mountains, waterfalls and valley vistas. Hiking, climbing the Half Dome, and hunting down cascades like Bridalveil Falls and Yosemite Falls are some of the top things to do.
There are 750 miles of trails here and even more designated wilderness, so it’s easy to get away from the crowds if you avoid the most popular spots.
Best view: The Tunnel View overlook has a picture-perfect scene of the Yosemite Valley with granite peaks on each side and Bridalveil Fall flowing 620 feet down.
When to go: June through September is the busiest time. Come in spring when the waterfalls are gushing and crowds are a bit lighter.
Annual visitors: 4,422,861
Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone was the first national park in the U.S. and is famous for its volcanic hot spots like Grand Prismatic Spring and the Old Faithful geyser, which erupts regularly throughout the day. Boardwalks and trails lead to other hydrothermal features like mud pots and hot springs.
With about 3,500 square miles of parklands primarily in Wyoming, you can also discover thermal basins, lakes and canyons and spot resident bison and antelope. Use this 4 days in Yellowstone itinerary to plan your trip.
Underrated activity: The thermal basin steals the show, but there are also tons of lakes here for boating if you have enough time.
When to go: Summer is busiest with the best weather, so try early fall and spring to avoid snow and crowds. Winter wolf watching is a fun alternative, too.
Annual visitors: 4,020,288
Acadia National Park
Dramatic cliffs and headlands drop into the sea at Acadia National Park on northern Maine’s Mount Desert Island. Summits like Cadillac Mountain offer sweeping views while rocky beaches have tidal pools and coastal hikes.
More than 150 miles of trails stretch from sea to summit, through forests and beside lakes, and another 70-plus miles of historic and carriage roads are perfect for fall foliage hunting. This is one of the best national parks on the east coast of the U.S. and makes a great Boston to Maine road trip destination.
Must see: The Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse from the 1800s with sea cliffs dropping below.
When to go: Summer for the warm weather, fall for leaf peeping, and spring for lighter crowds.
Annual visitors: 3,437,286
Grand Teton National Park
Grand Teton National Park pairs perfectly with Yellowstone, as it sits just south of the famed landscape in Wyoming. This road trip includes Yellowstone and Grand Teton. The Teton range juts up in perfect pointy peaks here that are reflected in rivers and lakes around the park.
Famous views from Schwabacher Landing, Inspiration Point and Mormon Row are a favorite with photographers. More than 200 miles of trails lead up mountains, through canyons and to lakes while waterways like the Snake River and Jenny Lake are open for boating, floating and kayaking.
Best photo spot: There are tons to choose from but Schwabacher Landing is perfect for capturing the mountains and trees reflected in Snake River when the water is calm.
When to go: Fall is lighter on crowds than summer and resident wildlife like bison, moose and elk are active.
Annual visitors: 3,405,614
Here’s how to spend 3 days in Jackson Hole and Grand Teton National Park
Olympic National Park
The Olympic Peninsula on the Pacific coast of northern Washington State holds this national park known for its mountains and rainforests.
Spanning nearly 1 million acres, the park offers hiking trails that lead to beaches and tide pools, up mountains for sweeping views, and through forests to waterfalls and rivers. Coastal waterways and lakes are also available for boating and canoeing.
Must-do: Watch the sunset behind the sea stacks at driftwood-filled Ruby Beach.
When to go: Summer has the best weather but try late spring or early fall for fewer people. Just expect cloudy, foggy and rainy conditions.
Annual visitors: 3,245,806
Glacier National Park
The Rocky Mountains of northern Montana are the star in Glacier National Park, where more than 700 miles of trails traverse wildflower meadows, turquoise lakes and snow-capped peaks.
Much of the action is along the 50-mile Going-to-the-Sun Road, which cuts through forests and traces the edge of mountains for epic views. Along the way, you can pull over at lookouts and picnic spots, spy bighorn sheep and mountain goats, get up close to glaciers, and hop out for hikes.
Best drive: Going-to-the-Sun Road is the main route through the park for scenic drives. It typically opens for the season after the snow is cleared by late June or early July and closes around mid-October.
When to go: Summer is by far the busiest since roads close during the snowy seasons. Try shoulder months like June and October for lighter crowds.
Annual visitors: 3,049,839
15 of the Best Summer Escapes from Big Cities in the USA
Trade in the concrete jungle this summer for nature-filled escapes. These outdoorsy summer destinations feature waterfalls, lakes, mountains and forests. Plus, they’re just a short drive away from the most populated cities in the United States. Think of them as a step up from a staycation with much better views and plenty of space to avoid the crowds!
National parks with waterfalls and canyons, mountains with views for days, lakes primed for swimming and boating — these outdoorsy destinations in the United States are calling your name this summer.
The best part? They’re close to home. We’ve picked a few of the most populated cities in the U.S. and tracked down a nature-filled escape within about a 3-hour drive so you can easily trade in the concrete jungle for something a bit more green.
With just a quick road trip required to reach these slices of paradise, you can easily squeeze one into a long weekend. But, most have enough to see and do to stretch it to a full-blown vacay. Think of it as a step up from a staycation with much better views and plenty of space to avoid the crowds!
Read Next: This is What You Should Pack for a Road Trip This Summer
The Best Summer Getaways from Big Cities in the USA
San Diego or LA to Coachella Valley
By Kelly of The Weekend Wanderluster
For those wanting to escape the city, the crowds, and the traffic of Los Angeles and San Diego, the Coachella Valley and Palm Springs offer a perfect weekend getaway! It’s only a 2-hour drive from LA and less than 3 from San Diego to this desert escape full of hot springs, parks and golf courses.
There aren’t many places that exude that retro 50s and 60s vibe more than Palm Springs. It used to be the weekend paradise of Frank Sinatra, Elvis Presley and other Old Hollywood stars. Nowadays, the small city is a popular winter getaway for snowbirds. This often means fewer crowds in summer, since those escaping the cold have gone home and festival season is over.
The Coachella Valley is host to several great things to do. Whether you are wanting to spend your weekend relaxing by the pool at a mid-century motel, shopping at Palm Canyon Drive's boutiques, or escaping into nature, there is something for everyone. The whole valley is linked by Hwy 111 down to the Salton Sea, so getting around is very easy.
For those looking to get outside, Joshua Tree National Park is on the eastern edge of the valley, less than an hour from Palm Springs, and offers a unique landscape you can easily spend a day exploring. Closer to the city, the surrounding canyons offer trails along the San Andreas Fault.
Although it may sound strange to spend a hot summer weekend away from the ocean, you will find plenty of places to relax, enjoy and explore in Palm Springs.
Escape from: Los Angeles (100 miles), San Diego (140 miles) or Las Vegas (235 miles)
San Francisco to Yosemite National Park
By Eden of Rock a Little Travel
If you’re looking for an outdoor escape from the Bay Area, consider a Yosemite road trip. You can get to Yosemite National Park from San Francisco in just 3 hours.
Once you arrive in Yosemite, you’ll have plenty of things to see and do as you make your way around the park. I recommend a stop at Tunnel View on your way into Yosemite Valley. From the Tunnel View lookout, you’ll get some of the best views in the park and your first introduction to what the rest of Yosemite has to offer.
After you arrive in Yosemite Valley and get settled into your accommodations, take a self-guided tour of the valley on foot. There are trails around the entire valley floor leading to many of the park's best waterfalls, El Capitan, Mirror Lake and the Merced River. When it’s warm, you can even go tubing down the river if you’re looking for a fun way to cool off.
While Yosemite is busiest in the summer months, it’s still a great time to visit. The snowmelt from the Sierra Nevadas in late spring results in exceptional waterfalls during late May and early June. Plus, you’ll get to experience the park with the best weather possible.
Escape from: San Jose (160 miles) or San Francisco (170 miles)
Boston to Cape Cod and the Islands
By Shobha of Martha’s Vineyard Tourist
Cape Cod and the Islands make a great short trip or weekend away from Boston. Cape Cod is only a couple of hours from the city. The islands of Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket both require a short ferry ride from Cape Cod. On your way to Cape Cod, you can also stop at Plimoth Plantation, a living history museum near the area where the Pilgrims landed on Plymouth Rock.
There’s plenty to do on the Cape and the Islands, especially if you enjoy outdoor activities. There are great beaches where you can relax in the sun and top up on your Vitamin D, including the Cape Cod National Seashore with 40 miles of protected sand. You can get out in the water for sailing, fishing, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding.
The towns here are all individual and unique. While Chatham in Cape Cod looks like something out of a Ralph Lauren advertisement, Provincetown is artsy and boho. The nearby islands of Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard are also different from each other. Nantucket is the smallest and mostly flat with a preppy vibe while Martha’s Vineyard has some hills and a more diverse crowd.
As you would expect, fish and seafood here are also outstanding. You can dine at fancy restaurants or little takeaway joints. There are a lot of family-friendly eateries because Cape Cod and the Islands are known as a multi-generational vacation destination.
Summers can get busy as it seems all of Boston descends upon this beach area. People from New York and further away also come for the outdoors lifestyle. There is usually one festival or another happening — for food, films or books. The area survives on tourism and makes a huge effort to be welcoming.
Escape from: Boston (70 miles) or New York City (250 miles)
Seattle to Olympic National Park
By Emily of The Mandagies
One of the coolest weekend getaways from Seattle is hands-down a trip to Olympic National Park in Washington. Packed with tons of adventure, the park has something for everyone to do, from exploring temperate rainforests to finding marine life on the beach.
The trip from Seattle to Olympic National Park typically takes a little over 3 hours via car. The shortest and most direct route begins in downtown Seattle and requires a ride on a ferry across the Puget Sound from Seattle to Bremerton. Between the ferry ride, small towns and highways through thick forest, the journey is an adventure in itself!
Once in the park, the options are endless. Drive up to Hurricane Ridge to see mountains and sea in all directions, hike to the iconic Sol Duc Falls, or stroll through the famous Hall of Mosses. If you like the ocean, Olympic National Park has over 70 miles of protected shoreline — some of our favorite beaches are Rialto Beach, Ruby Beach, and Kalaloch Beach.
This park is great for weekend getaways because there are so many things to do in Olympic National Park, especially during summertime when it is completely open. Depending on the type of outdoor activities you like, you can cater your trip to your exact preferences. Olympic is also so large that you can come back again and again and do something new every time!
Escape from: Seattle (90 miles)
Baltimore or D.C. to Harpers Ferry
By Jordan of The Solo Life
For a weekend escape from the hustle of Baltimore or Washington, D.C., look no further than the town of Harpers Ferry, West Virginia. Although just around an hour and a half from each of the two cities, Harpers Ferry feels like worlds away with its small-town charm, historical sites and outdoor recreation.
Located at the junction of the Shenandoah and Potomac rivers, Harpers Ferry is the perfect place for summer activities, including kayaking, white-water rafting, and even lazy river tubing. For nature and hiking, the Appalachian Trail cuts through part of the town and the Appalachian Trail Conservancy is headquartered here. The most popular hike nearby is the Maryland Heights Trail, a moderately difficult path across the Potomac, which offers stunning views of the town and the two rivers that surround it.
The town’s legacy and importance before, during, and after the Civil War is preserved in the Harpers Ferry National Historical Park. The community exudes an old-timey vibe, with local restaurants and quaint shops adding to its charm. The prominence of bed and breakfasts instead of big-name hotels also keeps the number of visitors low, even during the peak summer season.
Escape from: Washington, D.C. (70 miles) or Baltimore (70 miles)
Portland to Bend
By Alissa of Exploring Wild
The beloved Oregon town of Bend and its surrounding outdoor playground is the perfect summer escape from Portland. The 3-hour drive southeast of the city on Highway 26 crosses Mt. Hood National Forest and passes a number of campgrounds and trailheads, including the famed Pacific Crest Trail, for those wishing to break up the drive.
Outdoor lovers of every type will appreciate the wealth of active things to do in and around Bend. Bikers flock to the nearly 5,000 miles of gravel paths and 500-plus miles of singletrack, including fun and flowy trails for every level rider. Hikers could spend weeks exploring local trail systems on foot, with options ranging from riverside strolls to volcano climbs to multi-day alpine treks in the Cascade mountains. Smith Rock State Park, just a bit north, offers top-notch rock climbing and yet more hiking. The Deschutes River flows right through town and invites kayakers, SUP boarders, and festive groups of tubers to cool off on hot summer afternoons.
When it’s time to rest after a full day outside, Bend’s restaurants and cafes are the perfect places to kick back with a cold drink or iced coffee. A wide array of motels, Airbnb’s and campgrounds provide lodging for any budget.
The only bad thing about this fun summer getaway — a quick trip isn’t nearly long enough to enjoy all the natural beauty and outdoor adventures that Bend has to offer. If you’re anything like me, you’ll find yourself coming back again and again.
Escape from: Portland (165 miles)
Phoenix to Grand Canyon National Park
By Nicole of American SW Obsessed
Driving from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon is a great escape that will make you feel like you are a million miles away from the city. The Grand Canyon is located in the northwestern part of Arizona less than four hours from Phoenix. This national park is visited by over 6 million people per year but there are still plenty of places to get away from the crowds.
Most people think it is extremely hot at the Grand Canyon in summer but it's actually quite nice temperature-wise due to the elevation of 6,000 feet. It averages just above 80 degrees in the summer at the rim. However, if you head down into the canyon on one of the trails it will be about 20 degrees warmer. And of course, you will want to avoid the midday heat. There is also a chance of rain in the afternoon in July and August but that actually can feel nice.
A big plus of visiting the Grand Canyon in summer is the nice long days. The South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park is open 24/7 and summer months have around 14 hours of sunlight to enjoy the canyon. One of my favorite things to do is catch the sunrise at Mather Point, a popular lookout close to the visitors center and a large parking lot.
Another fun thing to do is to walk the Rim Trail, a flat and easy path full of beautiful viewpoints along the way. It runs for 13 miles, but you can hop on shorter sections and use the park shuttle to complete your route.
Escape from: Phoenix (220 miles) or Las Vegas (280 miles)
Chicago or Milwaukee to Door County
By Paulina of Paulina on the Road
If you are looking to drive away from hectic city life in the Midwest, then Door County, Wisconsin, should be high on your radar. Located on a peninsula between Green Bay and Lake Michigan, Door County is less than 3 hours from Milwaukee and about 4 from Chicago, perfect for a mini road trip.
Hundreds of miles of shoreline here make for stunning sunrises and sunsets, and scenic back roads, waterfront parks and open wilderness areas provide plenty of options to avoid crowds and enjoy nature in summer. The numerous things to do in Door County include exploring apple and cherry orchards, hiking coastal trails, visiting art galleries, splashing in lakes, and boating in the bay.
Small communities like Ellison Bay, Fish Creek, Egg Harbor and Jacksonport offer charming hubs of regional culture while county seat Sturgeon Bay preserves the area’s shipbuilding history at the Door County Maritime Museum. Among 11 lighthouses in the area, Cana Island Lighthouse is one of the most popular, with 97 winding stairs up to a viewing deck.
When it comes to the outdoors, don’t miss the underwater caverns of Cave Point County Park, the sandy beaches of Whitefish Dunes State Park, the trails and cliffs of Potawatomi State Park, and kayaking and canoeing on inland lakes and rivers.
Escape from: Milwaukee (160 miles) or Chicago (250 miles)
Las Vegas to Kanab
By Kristin of That Traveling Family
Kanab, Utah, is the perfect getaway spot for outdoor lovers in the Southwest, located along the state’s border with Arizona. The 3-hour road trip to Utah from Las Vegas takes you through beautiful red mountain passes and otherworldly landscapes, but make sure to plan time for a pit stop at Zion National Park along the way.
Just off the highway about 160 miles into the trip, you’ll come upon Zion with its canyon and incredible hikes like the Narrows and Angels Landing. Plan for at least half a day to see the views, but you could easily spend a week or more exploring all that Zion has to offer.
A half-hour drive from Zion, Kanab is the perfect home base at the center of natural wonders like The Wave and Rainbow Mountains in Arizona, and Utah’s Toadstool Hoodoos and Coral Pink Sand Dunes. Many people flock to the famous Antelope Canyon, a short hop across the border from Kanab in Page, Arizona, but we recommend checking out Wire Pass, a gorgeous tall and tight slot canyon just outside of Kanab. You can hike the 3.5-mile trail on your own without any crowds — at least for now — or continue on through the Wire Pass slot into Buckskin Gulch, the longest slot canyon in North America.
After all the hiking, head over to Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park for dune buggy riding or sand sledding. If you have a bit more time, Kanab is the perfect jumping-off point for day trips to Bryce Canyon, Zion, the Grand Canyon, Lake Powell and other incredible things to do in Utah and Arizona.
Escape from: Las Vegas (200 miles)
Columbus to Hocking Hills State Park
By Katie of Zen Life and Travel
Hocking Hills State Park, located in Logan, Ohio, is only 1 hour from the big city of Columbus, but it feels like a different world. Within the park, you’ll find caves, waterfalls, gorges, rock formations, forests, and miles and miles of beautiful hiking trails.
One of the most popular areas in Hocking Hills is Old Man’s Cave. In addition to longer trails connecting to other areas, you’ll find an easy 1-mile path through Old Man’s Cave that will take you by the “Devil’s Bathtub,” a natural whirlpool.
Another great spot is Ash Cave. You can take an easy walk on the Ash Cave Gorge trail to get up close to a beautiful waterfall or follow the half-mile Ash Cave Rim trail for a bird’s eye view of the area.
The rural Hocking Hills region is a popular day-trip spot, but you can also spend the night in one of the many cabins, cottages and campgrounds here for a little staycation. You’ll find everything from bare-bones accommodations to romantic, luxury stays with private decks and hot tubs.
Escape from: Columbus (60 miles), Indianapolis (225 miles), Louisville (235 miles) or Detroit (260 miles)
Denver to the Pikes Peak Region
By Corritta of Itz a Family Thing
If you would like to escape the hustle and bustle of the city life of Denver, look no further than the Pikes Peak Region of Colorado Springs. The two big cities are just an hour and a half apart, but you’ll feel a world away when you step into the nature lover’s paradise of West Colorado Springs. Here, countless hiking trails reward you with unparalleled views of hills, gorgeous rock structures, and Instagram worthy lookouts. The area is packed with activities for everyone from families to adventure seekers.
The first stop on your list should be the Garden of the Gods, a beautiful landscape of sandstone rock formations in a 1,300-acre park. There are more than 20 miles of trails to choose from that range from easy and mostly flat to moderate inclines, offering an option for everyone. Nearby Red Rock Canyon Open Space also has pedestrian and bike paths between the rusty-hued formations.
Drive 10 miles west of the Garden to reach the Pikes Peak Highway, a winding, 19-mile toll road full of scenic lookouts weaving up a mountain. The 14,115-foot peak inspired the song “America the Beautiful” and offers a rare opportunity for car travelers to reach a summit this high and see five surrounding states on clear summer days.
Escape from: Denver (70 miles)
Philadelphia to the Pocono Mountains
By Derek and Mike of Robe Trotting
When the weather is hot in Philadelphia, it’s nice to retreat to the cooler mountains and the shaded hiking spots north of the city. Luckily the Poconos, the mountains of Pennsylvania’s northeast, are about two hours away. The natural beauty of the area is incredible and visiting the Poconos is one of the best day trips from Philadelphia with many great options.
There are acres upon acres of state parks and protected green space in and around the Poconos. A few of the best places to plan an escape from Philadelphia are Promised Land State Park, Bushkill Falls and Ricketts Glen State Park, just outside the Poconos. These destinations provide enchanting trails and wooded scenery that you just can’t find in the city. Both Ricketts Glen and Bushkill have majestic waterfalls, though swimming is prohibited in most areas of each.
If you’re looking to cool down further and break up the drive, make a stop off the Pennsylvania Turnpike in Allentown. That’s where you’ll find another attraction, Dorney Park and Wildwater Kingdom, a combination amusement and water park that’s about midway between Philadelphia and the Poconos.
Escape from: Philadelphia (120 miles), NYC (100 miles), Baltimore (190 miles)
or DC (230 miles)
Memphis to Hot Springs National Park
By Jessica of Unearth the Voyage
One of the best nature-filled vacations from Memphis, Tennessee, is Hot Springs National Park in Arkansas. A 3-hour drive from the city will transport you to a quaint, mountainside town that looks like it’s straight out of the early 1900s. Along the drive, don’t forget to stop in Little Rock to sample a little something Arkansas does well – fried catfish.
Bathhouse Row is the show-stopper in this little city. The bathhouses in Hot Springs were built in the late 1800s and early 1900s as a place for people from all over the country to come and experience the healing thermal waters in this area. Several bathhouses still stand today and are a great way to experience what it would have been like to visit here over a hundred years ago.
On the outskirts of town, Hot Springs National Park has trails that lead away from the bathhouses and into the Ouachita National Forest. Summer is a perfect time to visit Hot Springs as there is some sort of fun event, festival or live music happening almost every weekend.
Escape from: Memphis (190 miles) or Dallas (290 miles)
Austin or San Antonio to Enchanted Rock
By Stephen of MonkBoughtLunch
Austinites love the outdoors, and with the Texas Hill Country just on the doorstep of both the Texas capital and nearby San Antonio, it certainly isn't hard to find a natural escape for a weekend out of the city. While the Hill Country region offers plenty of options, one of the most unique in terms of both physical landscape and local legend is the Enchanted Rock State Natural Area near the city of Fredericksburg.
The massive pink granite dome of Enchanted Rock is visible from miles away – and the view from the short trail to the top is equally large. The hike up the rock is the main tourist draw, but the park is also popular with rock climbers and campers, many of whom spend the weekend enjoying the peaceful surroundings and exploring around 10 miles of trails within the natural area. The park does get busy, so be sure to reserve in advance on the Texas Parks and Wildlife website when planning a visit.
Less than two hours from Austin or San Antonio (without significant traffic), the drive toward Enchanted Rock transitions to the scenic rolling landscape characteristic of Texas Hill Country as you leave the cities.
Escape from: San Antonio (90 miles), Austin (95 miles), Houston (250 miles) or Dallas-Fort Worth (240 miles)
New York City to Fire Island
By Tori of Tori Leigh
Less than 3 hours and under 70 miles from New York City sits the picturesque sandy seashore of Fire Island. Quieter and more family-friendly than the Hamptons’ beaches, Fire Island offers the perfect summer escape from the big city.
From New York City, beach vacationers will need to take the Long Island Rail Road to Bayshore and hop on the Fire Island Ferry. With no major roads on Fire Island, its communities, like Ocean Beach, preserve the natural essence of a beach vacation.
Rent a beach house, enjoy the sunrise on the shore, and indulge in one of the many seafood restaurants as you watch the sunset over the Great South Bay. Don’t miss a visit to the Fire Island Lighthouse, which overlooks the western side of the island.
Additionally, visitors can explore a true sunken maritime forest and the Otis Pike Fire Island High Dune Wilderness area. Visitors will feel miles away from New York City surrounded by nature and beach wildlife.
Escape from: NYC (60 miles) or Philadelphia (150 miles)
