Summer is the time to get outdoors and get active.
And even though it can get your blood pumpin’, there is nothing more relaxing than some quality time with Mother Nature, whether you’re hiking, fishing, or whitewater rafting — or simply kicking back and taking in the views after a day filled with activity.
Our seven favorite spots in the U.S. for an outdoorsy getaway this summer were chosen for their combination of natural beauty and breadth of outdoor activities.
To make planning easier, we’ve also recommended a cabin, lodge, or ranch in each place that brings you closer to the outdoors with great views or settings.
Sedona, Arizona
Sedona is most famous for its stunning red rocks, which are particularly beautiful in the glow of sunrise and sunset, and have formed the backdrop for many a western film.
The temperatures here are cooler than other Arizona destinations, thanks to the higher elevation, and Ponderosa Pines surround the city.
It’s a hub for outdoor enthusiasts, with excellent biking, horseback riding, and a particular focus on hiking.
Some of the most popular hiking spots include Cathedral Rock, Bear Mountain, Bell Rock, and Courthouse Rock.
Where to Stay: L’Auberge de Sedona, with 87 luxurious and woodsy cottages spread across 11 acres
Yosemite National Park, California
Known for its stunning sites, breathtaking beauty, and protected nature, Yosemite National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best hiking and camping destinations in the country.
Travelers from all over the world visit Yosemite to get a glimpse of the granite cliffs, clean steams, giant sequoia forests, and waterfalls.
Where to Stay: The Ahwahnee, built in 1927 and offering views of the Half Dome and El Captain summits
San Juan Islands, Washington
The San Juan Islands are a popular summer getaway for Washingtonians, and have a relaxed, back-to-nature vibe; expect farmlands, evergreen forests, nature trails, whale-watching, and mom-and-pop shops.
Popular activities include hiking, wildlife spotting (whale-watching in particular is common, and the Shark Reef trail on Lopez Island leads to a harbor seal hangout), sailing, and kayaking.
For those days when it does rain, the islands have several wineries, farms, and museums worth a visit.
Where to Stay: Lakedale Resort at the Three Lakes, an 82-acre lakefront property with picnic spots and accommodations ranging from canvas cabins to lodge rooms
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