Outdoor Travel Destinations for Summer Vacation in the U.S.

 

After being home during a global pandemic, there’s nothing people need more than a much-needed vacation from work or school. There are plenty of destinations throughout the U.S. that are ideal for taking in a breath of fresh air while you get outside to experience new sights and sounds. Book your flight to any of these outdoor travel destinations and create the perfect summer vacation memories.

One of the most popular national parks in the country, the Grand Canyon is a must-see travel destination. This breathtaking, natural landmark in northwest Arizona stretches 277 miles and is so expansive that it can even be seen from space. But you won’t need to go that far to get a good look–a helicopter ride will give you an unforgettable bird’s eye view of the canyon.

Plan a trip to Utah to visit this national park named after the almost 2,000 sandstone arches throughout the area. The largest formation, the Delicate Arch, is the most-photographed for its 52-foot stature. This park is home to the most arch formations on Earth, so the stunning sights make for a one-of-a-kind trip.

If you’d like to see majestic redwood trees, head to Redwood National and State Parks that encompass three state parks in Northern California. These trees are famous for being some of the tallest in the world at 300 feet, and wide enough to drive a car through. Almost 140 acres of space means you can breathe in the fresh, forest air at this outdoor travel destination.

Sedona, Arizona is well-known for its stunning red rock and vibrant culture. You’re sure to get centered in this city focused on nature, with plenty of places to hike, take a Jeep tour or go for a ride on a bike trail. Their most unique attractions are their vortexes, which are naturally occurring places on Earth that are said to inspire spiritual connection and healing.

This city is filled with yucca brevifolia, more popularly known as the Joshua tree. You’ll find an endless amount of these iconic plants in this attractive, desert locale. Spend your days rock climbing or horseback riding and your nights stargazing in this otherworldly destination in Southern California.

 

Yellowstone is home to multiple natural occurrences that make it a unique outdoor travel destination for summer. One of the United States’ most popular geographical attractions, Old Faithful, is a natural geyser that visitors can catch erupting every 1-2 hours. You can also get a view of Grand Prismatic Spring, a vibrant, hot spring that’s the largest in the country.

 

If you’re looking for a hefty dose of nature, visit northeastern New York’s Adirondack mountains. Adirondack park is the perfect place to vacation, filled with lush forests, pristine lakes and eye-catching rivers. Visitors can camp to take in the full experience, or admire the environment from one of their many luxury hotels.

 

Zion National Park in Utah is home to one of the most Instagram-worthy spots in the country, The Narrows. The most popular hike in the park, this area of Zion Canyon boasts beautiful, layered rock accessed by a hike that sometimes includes waist-deep waters. The weather is perfect in the summer however, making it the ideal outdoor travel destination for your summer escape.

 

It isn’t just Canada that gets to experience these three enchanting waterfalls–they can also be enjoyed from Niagara Falls, New York. You won’t need a passport to take in the view from Prospect Point, or book a boat tour for an even more impressive vantage point. You might also catch a view of the falls with a rainbow from Cave of the Winds.

 

For an adventurous aspect to your summer vacation, head to north-central Arizona to view an unparalleled natural wonder. The Wave in the Coyote Buttes is a photo-worthy destination due to its stunning wavy, layered rock. You’ll need to book a highly-coveted permit to take this six-mile hike, but the end results are worth it for the unique and unforgettable photos.