12 Best States for Outdoor Adventures in the US

The best states for outdoor adventures in the US range from California’s towering redwoods to Alaska’s untamed wilderness. You can scale Yosemite’s Half Dome, go whitewater rafting in West Virginia’s New River Gorge, or snorkel in Hawaii’s Molokini Crater.

There are 433 national park sites covering over 85 million acres. Trek through Glacier National Park’s rugged peaks, paddle through the Everglades’ mangrove forests, or explore the slot canyons of Utah’s Zion National Park.

From the Rocky Mountains to the Mojave Desert, these landscapes are filled with hiking, kayaking, climbing, and camping opportunities.

To create this list, we analyzed national park visitation data, biodiversity levels, outdoor recreation opportunities, and traveler reviews. Whether you seek desert adventures, mountain escapes, or coastal retreats, these 12 states offer some of the best outdoor experiences in the US.

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Best States for Outdoor Adventures in the US Utah Zion National Park

Utah UT 1/5

Unique outdoor honeymoon ideas Backpacking in The Grand Canyon

Arizona AZ 2/5

12 Spectacular Volcanic Destinations for Thrill Seekers

Washington WA 3/5

Scenic Marathons in the World Kauai Marathon, Hawaii, USA

Hawaii HI 4/5

12 Must-Visit US Locations for Outdoor Enthusiasts

California CA 5/5

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California

California has nine national parks, including Yosemite, Redwood National Park, and Joshua Tree. It has the Channel Islands, which lie off the coast and have some of the world’s best scuba diving and deep-sea fishing.

The state is home to Mt. Whitney, the tallest mountain in the lower 48 states. If you travel north of the state, you’ll explore the redwoods, the tallest trees on the planet.

As a surfer and hiker, I’ve traveled extensively throughout the state and am always in awe of its beauty. If you’re a first-time visitor, don’t miss the wilderness of Yosemite National Park or the landscapes of Death Valley.

Big Sur Coastal Hike: The Partington Cove trail in Big Sur offers a free, scenic hike with dramatic ocean views and a secluded beach at the end—just pack water and layers.
Napa Valley Wine Tasting: This guided wine tour in Napa Valley takes you to hand-picked boutique wineries where you learn about winemaking, enjoy a picnic lunch, and taste local wines.

Hawaii

Hawaii has eight national park sites located throughout the island chain. See active volcanoes in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. Or, see the history of war at Oahu’s Pearl Harbor National Memorial.

The islands are home to undisturbed tropical forests, such as the Hilo Forest Reserve. Hiking trails wind through valleys and cloud forests and take you close to towering waterfalls.

If you surf, the islands are a playground of world-class waves. Divers, snorkelers, sailors, and kayakers will also find endless reefs and ocean passes to experience. Not to mention, the chances to see whales, sharks, dolphins, and rare plant species that grow nowhere else on Earth.

Kona Coffee Farm Tour: Join a guided tour at a Kona coffee farm on the Big Island, which costs about USD 99 and includes a tasting session that gave me firsthand insight into the coffee-making process.
Maui Farmers Market: Spend a morning at a local farmers market in Maui (open from 8:00 AM to noon), where you can sample fresh tropical fruits and local treats while picking up handmade items.

New York

New York may be famous for its largest city, but as soon as you travel north, you’ll be in an outdoor-lovers’ paradise. Leave the taxis and attitudes in the city and travel to the Catskill Mountains. Continue further north, and you’ll be surrounded by wilderness and ski resorts in the Adirondack Mountains.

The state has 24 national park service areas and 180 state parks. You can visit the mighty Niagara Falls, the largest waterfall in North America by volume. Or, travel to the Adirondack Mountains for epic skiing and back-country hiking.

In the summer, you can travel for miles within the mighty Catskill mountains. There are campsites, hiking trails, and hidden rivers to explore. Plus, you can enjoy charming towns such as Woodstock and Lake Placid between hiking and adventuring.

Saratoga Springs Walking Tour: I took a self-guided walking tour in Saratoga Springs using an online map, which enriched my visit with local history and unique architecture at no extra cost.
Adirondack Scenic Train Ride: I enjoyed a relaxing train journey through the Adirondacks, providing panoramic views of lakes and forests.

Utah

Utah has five world-famous national parks and some of the world’s best skiing. Hit the slopes of Park City in winter and experience over 300 inches of supreme powder. Choose between Deer Valley Resort’s professional runs or Park City Mountain’s iconic slopes.

Head to Zion and Arches National Parks in the summer to hike through magnificent gorges of red rock formations. You can white water raft or camp in the rugged backcountry under the brightest stars in the country.

For more adventures, visit Bryce Canyon and Canyonlands National Parks. Here, you can enjoy world-class rock climbing and hiking. Bring plenty of gear because you’ll be off the beaten path in the heart of the wilderness.

Homestead Crater Soak: I relaxed with a warm swim in the Homestead Crater near Midway, which provided a unique natural hot spring experience.
Great Salt Lake Antelope Island Guided Tour: I enjoyed a guided day trip from Salt Lake City visits the Great Salt Lake, the historic Fielding Garr Ranch, and Antelope Island State Park to learn about local wildlife, history, and conservation efforts.

West Virginia

West Virginia is a hiker’s dream destination, yet very few people visit it. The people who know, however, take full advantage of its uncrowded trails and campsites.

The misty Appalachian Mountains surround the state. You’ll explore thundering waterfalls like those in Blackwater Falls State Park, go epic boating, and go camping on Summersville Lake.

Check out Harpers Ferry National Historic Park’s Native American historical places and hiking trails. Then, explore the town and see the historic Lockwood House and locations of John Brown’s raid, a significant piece of American history.

Cass Scenic Railroad: I took a vintage train ride at Cass Scenic Railroad State Park which offered a memorable glimpse into West Virginia’s logging history.
New River Gorge Lookout: I drove to a quiet lookout along the New River Gorge where the panoramic views are free; packing a small picnic made the stop even more enjoyable.

Vermont

12 US Destinations for an Unforgettable Ski Trip — © FashionStock / Adobe Stock

Vermont is another East Coast destination that’s packed with outdoor adventures. If you hike, try taking the majestic Appalachian Trail. You’ll traverse through one of the world’s oldest mountain ranges.

Visit in the fall to see the incredible fall colors, especially in the Green Mountain National Forest. If you visit during the winter, you have to take on the slopes of Stowe and Stowe Mountain Resort.

Besides hiking and skiing, the state is famous for its fishing. You can explore Lake Champlain and hundreds of smaller lakes full of bass, trout, and other delicious lake fish.

Ben & Jerry’s Factory Tour: I took a tour at the Ben & Jerry’s factory in Waterbury, which had free entry and optional tastings for a fun look at Vermont’s famous ice cream.
Maple Syrup Farm Experience: I visited a local maple syrup farm in early spring, a guided tour that showed me the traditional syrup-making process.

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Washington

Washington is home to national parks such as Mount Rainier National Park and Olympic National Park. There are also 140 state parks where you can spend days exploring.

In Olympic National Park, you’ll have hidden rivers and trails that climb through temperate rainforests. If you’re an avid hiker, you can take on the snow-capped peaks of Mount Olympus. Or, simply enjoy the peaceful camping near Port Angeles.

Head to San Juan Island for wildlife viewing, where you can rent kayaks and see orcas swim in the wild. You can also rent bikes and explore the island’s quiet roads and forested trails. Stop at a local farm to try homemade cider, or stop at the exciting Alchemy Art Center.

Hurricane Ridge Road Conditions: This scenic drive in Olympic National Park can close unexpectedly due to snow or maintenance. Check road status on the National Park Service website before heading up. The entry fee for Olympic National Park is USD 30 per vehicle.
Friday Harbor Ferry Booking: If you’re visiting San Juan Island, book your ferry from Anacortes in advance, especially in summer.

Arizona

Arizona has 24 national parks, trails, and monuments and 34 state parks to explore. There’s everything from the high desert of Flagstaff to the dunes of the Kofa National Wildlife Refuge and Sedona.

The pinnacle of the state’s treasures is the Grand Canyon. It stretches 10 miles from rim to rim and is almost a mile deep. Hundreds of trails enter the canyon and follow the mighty Colorado River.

Explore the red rock wilderness of Vermilion Cliffs National Monument via hikes and mountain bike trails. Or, take in the vortexes and painting-like trails of Sedona. If you love nature and desert landscapes, Arizona is a must-visit destination.

Horseshoe Bend Parking: There’s a $10 parking fee (card only) at the official lot, and it fills up fast. For a free option, park in downtown Page and take a shuttle.
Antelope Canyon Tours: You must book a guided tour to visit. Prime midday slots (best for photos) sell out weeks in advance.

Minnesota

Minnesota is way more than Prince and the Vikings—although both are awesome! It’s known as the ‘Land of 10,000 Lakes’ and that’s not an exaggeration. The actual number is around 11,800, with a few small ponds thrown in for good measure.

If you love boating, fishing, kayaking, or tubing, there’s no place better than Minnesota. Head to Chippewa National Forest to experience the lake life on Leech Lake. Then, take a drive to Duluth to see the mighty Lake Superior.

If you surf, you can battle the cold water and huge swells of Duluth’s rocky points. Surfers get the waves of their lives here in spots like Stoney Point every fall.

Boundary Waters Canoe Area Permit: If you plan to canoe or camp in the Boundary Waters, you need a permit from May to September. Overnight permits must be reserved months in advance.
Split Rock Lighthouse Entry: It costs $8 to access the lighthouse grounds and $25 for a full tour. The best lake views are from the short, steep trail behind the visitor center.

Florida

Florida may be known for ‘Florida Man’ and retirees, but outdoor lovers can also fall in with the state love. It’s home to some of the US’ best scuba diving reefs, like Palm Beach’s 1000 Mermaids Artificial Reef Project.

Besides the ocean sports, you can explore the Florida Everglades and see wild manatees. Trails and kayaking zones take you through the mangroves and swampland.

Head to Everglades National Park and explore the trails where you can see gators up close. Drive to the town of Flamingo and try camping at Flamingo Campground. Rent kayaks and experience the beautiful yet mysterious Everglades by water.

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park Snorkeling: Entry is $8 per vehicle, and snorkeling tours start at $49.95. Book ahead to explore the only living coral reef in the continental U.S.
Shark Valley Tram Tour: This Everglades tour costs $33 per adult and offers a guided, two-hour ride through prime alligator territory. The observation tower at the halfway point has the best panoramic views.

North Carolina

Beautiful Destinations for Fall Foliage in the World Blue Ridge Parkway, USA — © Craig Zerbe / Adobe Stock

North Carolina is home to the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains and Outer Banks. Inside of this long chain of islands is the Mattamuskeet National Wildlife Refuge. Take Highway 264 and drive through the protected wildlife zone.

Alternatively, head inland to the Blue Ridge Mountains near Asheville. Drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway to the trails surrounding the Biltmore Estate. Here, you can climb or drive up to Mt. Mitchell, the tallest East Coast peak.

If you love fishing and boating, head to Lake James State Park. Rent kayaks or boats and explore the hidden beaches and islands in the lake.

Biltmore Estate Entry: General admission starts at $94 and includes access to the house, gardens, and winery. Buy tickets online to avoid long lines, especially in peak season.
Linville Gorge Hiking: The Table Rock and Hawksbill trails offer stunning views with moderate hikes. Arrive early—parking is limited, and there are no facilities.

Alaska

Alaska is wild, remote, and unimaginably beautiful. With eight national parks and over 3 million lakes, it’s one of the last truly untamed places in the United States. From glaciers to grizzlies, it’s the kind of place where nature calls the shots.

You can hike through Denali National Park, home to North America’s tallest peak. Or, paddle past icebergs and sea otters in Kenai Fjords National Park. Kayaking in Glacier Bay gets you close to calving glaciers and breaching whales. You can start your Alaskan adventure in Seward and Juneau.

In the summer, the sun barely sets, giving you extra hours for fishing, hiking, and wildlife spotting. In winter, bundle up and go snowshoeing or chase the northern lights dancing across the sky.

Kenai Fjords Kayaking Tour: Guided kayak trips from Seward cost around $175 and offer a front-row seat to tidewater glaciers and curious seals. Wear layers, even in summer, as it gets chilly on the water.
Denali Shuttle Pass: For the best wildlife views, buy a shuttle ticket into Denali National Park (starting at $33). The further you go, the more likely you are to spot moose, caribou, and bears.

New Mexico

New Mexico has 15 national parks and monuments to explore. You’ll hike through the high desert to historic cliff dwellings at Bandelier National Monument. Or, hike through white dunes at White Sands National Monument.

Around the capital of Santa Fe, you’ll find endless hiking and mountain biking trails near the city. If you want an incredible hike, you can climb to the peak of Atalaya Mountain. The Atalaya Mountain trailhead starts right in the city.

In the south of the state is Gila National Forest, a 3 million-acre preserved wilderness with forests and high deserts. After hiking through the forest, you can bathe in hot springs or camp under the bright stars.

White Sands National Park Sledding: Buy plastic sleds at the visitor center to slide down the dunes. Wax them for speed, and go early before the sand gets too hot.
Santa Fe Farmers’ Market: Open Saturdays year-round at the Railyard. It’s the best spot for local chile, blue corn tamales, and fresh produce. Arrive before 10 a.m. for the best selection.