The great outdoors are making a comeback.
U.S. National Parks set record numbers for visitation in 2024, and adventure travel continues to be a top-growing sector of the global travel market here in 2025.
In this way, Americans are seeking adventurous travels here at home, and abroad as well. So where should one go to experience nature on their next trip? The options are seemingly endless, with a wide variety of terrains to choose from, including mountains, lakes, oceans, and even volcanoes.
Below is a sampling of some of the destinations I love, each offering something a little different, special in their own way and each worthy of a visit, but for different reasons.
1. Big Island, Hawaii
Many people go to Hawaii each year, but the majority (52%) focus their visit on the island of Oahu. By comparison, only 15% of Hawaii’s visitors go to the Big Island, or Hawaii Island.
Kilauea Volcano on the Big Island of Hawaii has been erupting frequently in 2025. On June 11, the lava fountains reach higher than the crater rim, over 500 ft tall. You can often view the lava fountains from the observation areas in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. USGS photo by M. Zoeller.
USGS Public Domain
Why so comparatively few people visit the Big Island is a matter of logistics and infrastructure—not because there’s nothing to see or do. The Big Island lives up to its name; it is, in fact, bigger than all the other islands combined, and its landscape is quite varied: It contains 8 of the world’s 13 ecosystems, as well as several active volcanoes.
The Big Island of Hawaii is a haven for mountain and ocean activities. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park offers the chance to visit the summit of an active volcano (which has been erupting frequently as of late), while many other natural and cultural parks offer hiking, snorkeling, and, of course, beaches to rest on after a full day of exploration.
While the small town of Kailua-Kona can be bustling during the summer months, the Big Island is typically chill. With so much land, a small population (approx. 200,000), and relatively few visitors, you’ll often find yourself away from the crowds on the Big Island, especially in outdoor areas.
2. Banff, Canada
For a relatively cheap international adventure, head to the northern part of the Rocky Mountains in Banff, Canada, where world-class wilderness and discounted opportunities await.
The small town of Banff sits within Banff National Park, offering beautiful views and quick access to the outdoors.
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The town of Banff is located inside Banff National Park, the mountain peaks looming above its charming streets. Opportunities for outdoor adventures, like hiking, mountain biking, climbing, and skiing, are located in every direction, and it only takes a few minutes to get out of town and into your own world on the trail.
In town, Banff provides a range of accommodations, with many restaurants and conveniences for families and travelers looking for an active hub.
The Canadian Dollar is weak compared to the American Dollar right now, meaning that your trip could be more affordable than you think—as of this writing, the exchange rate presents about a 25% discount on posted prices.
3. Missoula, Montana
Missoula often slips through the cracks in outdoor circles, probably because it 1) is really isolated and 2) has been outshined in the media by other Montana destinations, like Big Sky and Bozeman.
View of Missoula from Mount Sentinel. Missoula provides access to numerous rivers and wilderness areas in a university setting.
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But don’t be fooled. Missoula sits at the confluence of four rivers (the Bitterroot, the Blackfoot, the Clark Fork and Rock Creek), making it a haven for fly fishing and river sports, and also serves as a gateway to myriad national forests and wilderness areas (Rattlesnake National Recreation Area and Wilderness, for example).
Hiking, camping, fly fishing, mountain biking, and river sports (kayaking, floating, tubing) are all easily accessible from Missoula, often just outside of town.
Stay awhile and you might be surprised at all Missoula has to offer, given its remote location and small population (approx. 80,000). The university town sports an impressive array of music venues, including the riverside KettleHouse Amphitheater, as well as a world-class ceramics scene, which can be appreciated in the local art galleries.
4. Jackson, Wyoming
If Jackson was physically located inside Grand Teton National Park—and not just next to it—it would be a perfect American comparison to Banff up in Canada. Both have small populations (at or less than 10,000), both have a wide range of accommodations and conveniences (including bougie options), and both provide immediate access into stunning national parks.
Schwabacher’s Landing in Grand Teton National Park. Jackson, Wyoming, provides immediate access to the Park as well as mountain-chic nightlife.
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Jackson is the largest of several small towns that make up the valley of Jackson Hole. The entrance to Grand Teton National Park is only about 10 miles outside Jackson, and Yellowstone about 2.5 hours to the north. This presents many opportunities for adventures, from accessible day hikes to scenic road trips and wildlife viewing in Wyoming, Idaho, and Montana, which all converge in this region.
Jackson has become a pricier destination in recent decades, but its appeal is easy to see. It’s one of the few destinations north of Salt Lake City to provide such a respected and wide level of offerings, including high-quality restaurants, bars, and hotels. The alpine views from town are scenic and the daytime vibe still outdoorsy, even if mountain-chic is often the vibe at night.
5. Traverse City, Michigan
Summer is the time to visit Traverse City in northern Michigan. Here, one can find pristine forests, craggy lakeshores, and sand dunes to explore, while local breweries and peaceful lakeside parks set the tone in town.
The path at Sleeping Bear Dunes near Traverse City, Michigan. The Sleeping Bear Dunes are a unique area with several hikes and scenic lakeshore views.
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Traverse City has a population of about 15,000 and could never be described as being on the way to something. Its remote location helps keep it natural and relaxed and provides easy access to numerous ecosystems.
The lakeside Sleeping Bear Dunes, for example, are less than an hour away, and other natural areas, like Manistee National Forest, Miller Creek Nature Preserve, and the Sand Lakes Quiet Area are also easy day trips.
Many activities happen on the water, of course, such as sailing and kayaking. The Manitou Islands, located not far offshore, provide a unique opportunity for hiking and camping.
Don’t Overthink It
Summer is upon us, and there are many outdoor-focused areas you can visit. Don’t overthink it. Regardless of whether you’re planning an extensive trip or simply a long weekend, there’s a destination that can accommodate, and perhaps it’s not on this list. Perhaps it’s looking for jaguars way down in the Pantanal of Brazil, or simply around the corner, closer to your backyard. Either way, the trip is sure to be rewarding—just pick a spot that works for your timeline, your budget, and your interests.
