Embrace The Wanderlust
Does city living have you down? Do you dream of running away to the woods? The good news it that America has some of the most diverse and beautiful biomes that you can escape to for a weekend, some of which may be right in your own backyard.
1. Acadia National Park
Don't skip over New England when planning a wilderness escape. Acadia National Park has more than 10,000 years of human history, and almost as many activities for visitors. The lighthouses, rugged shores, and spectacular sunrises of this island will make you feel like you've stepped into another world.
2. Turnip Rock
Located in Michigan's thumb, the charming rock island is great for beginner and experienced kayakers alike. Arising from the clear teal waters of Lake Huron, Turnip Rock cannot be climbed, but it's a great way to get out on the water. It's also located in one of Michigan's Dark Sky Preserves for optimal stargazing.
3. Joshua Tree National Park
Speaking of stargazing, Joshua Tree is one of the most popular spots in SoCal for seeing the stars. With nine different campgrounds and trails to suit every activity level, the valleys, bouldering, and iconic trees make Joshua Tree well worth the visit. It's also a birdwatcher's paradise with more than 250 bird species calling it home.
4. Yellowstone National Park
The country's oldest and most iconic national park is actually a UNESCO World Heritage Site brimming with adventures. Yellowstone is roughly the size of Rhode Island and Delaware combined so you're to find an activity to fit every interest, skill level, and season. Make sure you carry bear spray if you're going for a hike.
5. Big Sur
Instantly iconic isn't called one of the world's most beautiful coastlines for nothing. Big Sur is beloved for its purple sand beaches, vibrant blue waters, and moody mist. It's also a renowned place of contemplation for when you just need to unplug and put your mind at ease.
6. Tallulah Gorge
Named one of Georgia's Seven Natural Wonders, Tallulah Gorge was formed anywhere between 500 and 250 million years ago! Visitors can go whitewater rafting down the Tallulah River, hike up six waterfalls, or simply enjoy the autumn colors, depending on what time of year you're there. You get the national park feeling without being swamped by crowds.
7. Niagara Falls
If you haven't made a trip to the Canadian border to check out Niagara Falls, you're missing out. These three gorgeous waterfalls may not be the tallest in the country, but they're among the most stunning. Horseshoe Falls is the largest and most iconic of the the three, but make sure to check out American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls as well.
8. Zion Canyon
Located (unsurprisingly) within Zion National Park, Zion Canyon offers some of your NPS standard fare: an array of hikes, horseback riding, and wading through the river. Zion Canyon also offers some great museums such as the Nature Centre (a must-do with kids), and the Human History Museum.
9. Hamilton Pool
A watery oasis awaits you less than an hour from Austin. This historic swimming hole is right out of a dream with startling jade waters fed by a plunging waterfall. Bring lunch, good shoes, and something to float on, and let your worries go out with the tide.
10. Everglades National Park
Florida is so much more than Disney World and Miami nightlife. The lush swamps of Everglades National Park are rife with sneaky panthers, docile manatees, and, yes, lots of American alligators, which knowledgeable guides will all point out to you. Keep your hands and feet in the boat in all times.
11. Hells Canyon
The Grand Canyon gets all the glory, but Hells Canyon in Oregon is deeper by almost 2000 feet! Don't let the intimidating name scare you away, Hells Canyon is a mecca for outdoor creation, with tours year-round. Take a jet boat down the mighty Snake River, catch something tasty for dinner, and be sure not to miss the Nimíipuu petroglyphs.
Bureau of Land Management Oregon and Washington on Wikimedia
12. Mono Lake
Mono Lake, especially the South Tufa area has an otherworldly experience that will make you feel like you're on another planet. The water here is significantly saltier than the ocean, it's also somewhat soapy, cleansing you while you float. Mono Lake is over a million years old, and is at its spookiest at dawn or dusk.
13. Indiana Dunes
When you see pictures of Dunes National Park, it's hard to believe that it's less than an hour from the hustle and bustle of Chicago! You'll see some epic sunsets, hike some deceptively challenging trails, and cool off in Lake Michigan. With sledding and sandboarding, these sky-high dunes will bring out your inner child.
14. Cumberland Island
Getting away from the city doesn't have to mean turning your brain off entirely, and for those who take every opportunity to learn, Cumberland Island and Georgia provides knowledge and views in equal measure. This island has a rich and complex history that can be explored through museum tours or just by walking along the seashore. Also, there are wild horses, however they're not to be approached.
Tim Kiser (TimK MSI) on Wikimedia
15. Redwood National Park
A quick hop over the California-Oregon border will reward you with the tallest trees in the world. Some of the trees in this park have been growing for thousands of years and will hopefully keep growing for thousands of years. There's nothing more humbling than walking among giants and feeling peace with your place in the world.
16. Mammoth Cave
Sometimes you really need to get away from the city...like underground-get-away-from-the-city. With almost 400 miles of mapped passageways, Mammoth Cave in Kentucky is the longest cave system in the world, and it's open for tours. Make sure you bring a jacket, even in summer—it gets cold underground.
17. Grand Teton National Park
If hiking's your game, then Grand Grand Teton National Park has a trail with your name on it. There are few places better to enjoy the rugged outdoors than in Wyoming, where the earth pushes up into majestic mountains before dropping down into Jackson Hole. Summer is the best time to visit this park, but it's also the busiest.
18. Tallgrass Prairie
Prairie used to cover almost half the country, centuries of farming and devastation have reduced that number to a mere 4%. Tallgrass Prairie National Reserve in Kansas is one of the best places to experience this endangered ecosystem. We especially recommend you go bison viewing at the overlook trail.
19. Horseshoe Bend
One of the most photographed places in the southwest—and that's saying something—Horseshoe Bend has so much more to offer than pretty pictures. Hike along the rim (carefully) or kayak around the bend yourself. Once you've finished with Horseshoe Bend, book a tour and drive 10 minutes east to Antelope Canyon.
20. Denali National Park
Last but certainly not least is Denali National Park in beautiful Alaska. The centerpiece of this park is, obviously, the titular mountain—the tallest in North America—but there's plenty to do if you're not into mountaineering. Take a zipline tour, go snowshoe hiking, or meet the adorable sled dogs.
