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Stunning Beauty on the Columbia Gorge
Indian Heaven Wilderness Adventure Near Columbia Gorge
Indian Heaven Wilderness is one of the Pacific Northwest’s most stunning destinations for hikers looking to experience a quieter side of the Columbia River Gorge region. Located within Gifford Pinchot National Forest between Mt. Adams and the Columbia River Gorge, this 20,600-acre wilderness area features rolling volcanic terrain, subalpine meadows, evergreen forests, and more than 175 lakes spread across a high-elevation plateau.
For those searching for memorable summer and fall hiking, Indian Heaven Wilderness trails provide a refreshing alternative to the busier Columbia Gorge hikes closer to the interstate. The trail system stretches nearly 42 miles and includes routes suitable for day hikes, backpacking trips, fishing excursions, and scenic wildlife viewing. Summer brings wildflowers and clear mountain lakes, while fall transforms the landscape with rich shades of red, orange, and gold as huckleberries ripen across the plateau.
One of the most popular experiences in the area is hiking toward Lemei Rock, the highest point in the wilderness at 5,927 feet. The climb rewards visitors with sweeping views of the Cascade Range, surrounding lakes, and sections of the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. Other highlights include volcanic formations like East Crater and the peaceful Lake Sahalee-Tyee region, where hikers can spend hours exploring without the heavy crowds often found at more famous Columbia River Gorge viewpoints.
Cabins in Washington State Near Indian Heaven Wilderness
After a day on the trail, Carson Ridge Cabins in Carson, Washington offers a comfortable place to unwind while staying close to the region’s outdoor attractions. Set on nine acres of gardens and evergreen forest, these luxury cabins in Washington State combine privacy and convenience for guests planning dog friendly weekend getaway. Guests can relax in cabins equipped with fireplaces, jetted tubs, and thoughtful amenities designed for post-hike recovery.
The location also makes it easy to explore additional things to do in Columbia River Gorge communities throughout Washington and Oregon. Whether you are planning a hiking-focused adventure, a quiet weekend retreat, or a longer stay exploring Gifford Pinchot National Forest, Indian Heaven Wilderness remains one of the Northwest’s most underrated destinations for scenic outdoor recreation and mountain lodging.
Stunning Outdoor Wedding Venues Near Charlottesville
Best Outdoor Wedding Venues Near Charlottesville VA
Choosing the right setting is one of the most meaningful parts of planning your wedding, and outdoor wedding venues offer a sense of romance that feels both natural and unforgettable. Couples drawn to the Virginia countryside will find that outdoor wedding venues near Charlottesville provide a beautiful balance of scenic views, thoughtful design, and flexibility for celebrations of all sizes.
Garden wedding venues are especially popular for couples who want their ceremony to feel intimate while still surrounded by open space. Rolling lawns, vineyard views, and mountain backdrops create a naturally elegant setting for exchanging vows. These outdoor wedding venues allow couples to personalize their ceremony while offering guests a memorable experience in a historic, stunning part of the country.
One of the advantages of choosing outdoor wedding venues near Charlottesville is the ability to design a seamless celebration. Outdoor wedding receptions can flow easily from ceremony to cocktail hour, with guests mingling on the lawn or enjoying vineyard views before transitioning to dinner and dancing. For couples who want the option of both indoor and outdoor spaces, properties with barns or event halls offer added peace of mind and creative freedom.
A Romantic Bed and Breakfast in Virginia for Wedding Weekends
For couples planning destination celebrations, a Bed and Breakfast in Virginia offers a welcoming, convenient experience. On-site lodging allows your closest friends and family to stay just steps from the ceremony and reception, eliminating transportation concerns and creating a relaxed wedding weekend atmosphere. Guests can enjoy shared breakfasts, quiet moments on the grounds, and time together beyond the main event.
Smaller wedding venues, like The Orchard House B&B, also allow couples to host multi-day celebrations with ease. From rehearsal dinners and welcome gatherings to farewell brunches, everything unfolds in one thoughtfully designed space. With easy access to the best things to do in Charlottesville, local wineries, and nearby state parks, couples can extend the celebration into a full weekend.
For couples seeking outdoor wedding venues that feel personal, scenic, and well-suited for meaningful gatherings, the countryside near Charlottesville offers some of the most magical options.
Stunning Scenery on Scenic Drives in Colorado
Driving the Million Dollar Highway: What Makes This Colorado Drive Legendary
The Million Dollar Highway is one of the most talked-about scenic drives in Colorado, and once you see the San Juan Mountains rising on either side of US Highway 550, you understand why. This 25-mile stretch between Silverton and Ouray climbs through Red Mountain Pass, cuts along the Uncompahgre Gorge, and delivers the kind of views that stop conversation mid-sentence. It consistently ranks among the best places to visit in Colorado for those who want mountain scenery without a long approach hike.
The terrain shifts fast here. Forested slopes give way to open alpine country in a matter of miles, and the road itself connects old mining sites, trailheads, and overlooks that reward a slower pace. Drivers can finish the route in about 45 minutes if they do not stop, but detours along the route are what make this drive special. Plan a full day if you want time for a short hike, explore mountain towns, take a mine tour, or simply pulling off at every marked overlook.
Fall is one of the busiest seasons for this drive, and for good reason. The aspen groves along the route turn gold by late September, and the contrast against the red rock of Red Mountain Pass is hard to beat. Winter travelers should check road conditions before heading out, since avalanche control can close sections without much notice. Spring and summer bring easier driving and wildflowers at the higher elevations.
Your Bed and Breakfast Durango CO Home Base for the Drive
Durango sits about an hour from the southern end of the highway, which makes it a practical and comfortable base for the trip. Staying at a Bed and Breakfast in Durango CO means you can start early, avoid the crowds at the first few overlooks, and still be back in time for dinner along the Animas River. Antlers on the Creek puts you on Lightner Creek, just far enough from downtown to feel quiet but close enough that all the best things to do in Durango are close at hand.
After a day on the switchbacks, soak in the hot tub as the sun drops behind the mountains, then settle into a king or queen suite with a plush robe waiting. Mornings start with a homemade breakfast, and guests looking to make a stay feel extra special can add Breakfast in Bed, delivered with a seasonal entrée, pastries, and a preferred morning drink.
Million Dollar Highway: Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Million Dollar Highway?
The Million Dollar Highway runs through southwest Colorado along US Highway 550, cutting through the San Juan Mountains between Silverton and Ouray.
Where does the Million Dollar Highway start and end?
The drive begins in Silverton and ends in Ouray, covering roughly 25 miles. Many travelers extend the trip to include Durango, Ridgway, or Telluride.
Why is it called the Million Dollar Highway?
No one has confirmed a single origin. Some say it refers to the value of the mountain views, others point to stories about the cost of building the road through such steep terrain, and some tie it to the gold and silver once mined from these mountains.
Plan Your Trip from Durango
The Million Dollar Highway demands time and respect of the terrain, and Durango makes an easy launch point for the drive. Book your stay at Antlers on the Creek, a Bed and Breakfast in Durango CO built for unwinding, and start planning your Million Dollar Highway trip today.
Stunning Views & Calm Waters at Mirror Lake State Park
Best Mirror Lake State Park Outdoor Adventure
Mirror Lake State Park offers one of the most distinctive outdoor experiences among Wisconsin State Parks, combining calm water recreation with scenic sandstone landscapes. Located near Baraboo in the Wisconsin Dells region, the park is centered around its namesake lake, known for its smooth, reflective surface and protected shoreline. The steep sandstone cliffs create a natural wind barrier, resulting in ideal paddling conditions and a quieter alternative to more crowded destinations.
Mirror Lake, Wisconsin, spans 137 acres and operates as a no-wake lake, making it especially appealing for kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding. Whether you are new to paddling or experienced on the water, the steady conditions allow for an accessible and enjoyable outing. Boat rentals are available on-site, offering a convenient way to explore the lake without bringing your own equipment.
Beyond the water, the park features nearly 20 miles of hiking trails, ranging from flat, easy loops to more challenging routes that climb through sandstone formations. These trails provide a variety of perspectives, from wooded paths to elevated views of the lake and surrounding terrain. Biking trails add another layer of activity, with designated routes marked for off-road exploration.
Additional things to do at the park include swimming at the sandy beach area, fishing for species such as bass and northern pike, and enjoying designated picnic areas throughout the park. A notable highlight within Mirror Lake State Park is the Seth Peterson Cottage, a small Frank Lloyd Wright-designed structure that offers guided tours and architectural interest within the natural setting. For other outdoor adventures, be sure to visit Devil’s Lake State Park as well.
One of the Best Places to Stay in Baraboo
Choosing comfortable places to stay in Baraboo enhances your time at Mirror Lake State Park. A nearby Wisconsin Bed and Breakfast provides a convenient home base just a short drive from the park, allowing you to start your day with a prepared breakfast before heading out to explore.
Guests can return in the afternoon to enjoy outdoor seating, light refreshments, and a relaxed setting after a day of hiking or paddling. Guest rooms feature a blend of historic character and modern updates, including private bathrooms and thoughtfully designed interiors. With easy access to Mirror Lake State Park and other Wisconsin State Parks, this style of lodging is perfect after a day of outdoor adventures. Plan your visit and reserve your stay to experience one of the most accessible and enjoyable natural destinations near Baraboo.
Summer Activities at the Iconic Sugarbush Resort
Best Sugarbush Resort Guide for Summer Adventure
Sugarbush Resort is widely known for winter sports, but summer reveals a different side of this Vermont destination. Set in the Mad River Valley, the resort transitions into a mountain landscape filled with fresh air, open trails, and a wide range of outdoor activities. A summer visit offers the chance to experience Sugarbush Resort from a new perspective, where hiking, biking, and scenic views define the pace of each day.
Hiking is one of the most popular ways to explore the area. Trails at Lincoln Peak range from short, accessible loops to more demanding climbs, such as the Castle Rock Summit route. Scenic lift rides add flexibility, allowing visitors to ride up and hike down or create a customized route. Mountain biking is equally prominent, with lift-served downhill trails designed for experienced riders, along with rental options for those who prefer a more relaxed ride.
Golf is another highlight during the summer in Vermont. The Sugarbush Resort Golf Club, designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., features an 18-hole course shaped by the natural terrain of the Green Mountains. Disc golf provides a casual alternative, with a wooded course located near the base area. Heading to Sugarbush in the warmer months is one of the best things to do in Vermont!
Vermont Bed and Breakfast near Sugarbush Resort
West Hill House B&B offers convenient access to Sugarbush Resort while providing a comfortable and welcoming place to stay. Located just minutes from the resort, this Sugarbush Bed and Breakfast combines historic character with thoughtful amenities. Guests can start the day with a freshly prepared breakfast before heading out to explore hiking trails, schedule a tee time, or visit nearby dining options.
The property features nine guest rooms, each designed for relaxation after a day outdoors. Common spaces, including a sunroom and gardens, provide quiet areas to unwind. Innkeepers are available to assist with local recommendations, helping guests make the most of their summer itinerary in the Mad River Valley. It’s the perfect place for a couple’s getaway!
From outdoor recreation to local dining and seasonal events, Sugarbush Resort, Vermont, offers a well-rounded summer experience. Booking a stay nearby ensures easy access to the area’s activities while maintaining a comfortable retreat at the end of the day.
Take a Drive to Explore Chimney Rock in the North Carolina Mountains
Best Things to Do in Chimney Rock NC for Visitors
Chimney Rock, North Carolina, offers a compelling mix of natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and small-town charm in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Located in Rutherford County and within easy reach of Saluda and Asheville, this destination invites travelers to experience some of the most memorable things to do in Chimney Rock NC, from scenic hiking trails to locally owned shops and dining.
A visit to Chimney Rock State Park is central to the experience. Known for its dramatic cliffs and sweeping views of Hickory Nut Gorge, the park features a range of trails suited to different skill levels. The Hickory Nut Falls Trail leads to one of the tallest waterfalls in the state, while the Exclamation Point Trail rewards hikers with elevated ridge views. For those seeking a more gradual route, the Outcroppings Trail offers multiple overlooks, and the Skyline Trail climbs to Peregrine Point for expansive mountain vistas. The quieter Four Seasons Trail provides a peaceful forest walk that changes with the seasons.
A Refined Stay in Western North Carolina
Beyond the trails, Chimney Rock Village offers a walkable setting filled with local character. Visitors can browse artisan shops, enjoy casual dining, or stop for coffee along the Broad River. Nearby Lake Lure expands the experience with waterfront access and additional dining options, creating a well-rounded itinerary of things to do in Western North Carolina.
After a full day of exploration, returning to our upscale Western North Carolina Bed and Breakfast in Saluda provides a comfortable and private retreat. Accommodations include thoughtfully designed guest rooms, suites, and cottages with high-end amenities such as gas fireplaces, plush linens, and select jetted tubs. Guests can also enjoy on-site spa services, a sauna, and dining that enhances the overall stay. With close proximity to Chimney Rock Park and surrounding attractions, it is an ideal base for an adventure-focused mountain getaway.
Take a Fall Road Trip on the San Juan Skyway
Why This Is Durango’s Best Fall Road Trip
Driving the San Juan Skyway in fall is the best day trip you can take from Durango, and every September our guests ask us the same question at breakfast: when do the aspens turn? Fall foliage runs September through early October, and this 236-mile loop through the San Juan Mountains is the perfect way to see it. Widely considered one of the most spectacular scenic drives in Colorado, the San Juan Skyway scenic byway climbs the famous Million Dollar Highway, threads the high country from Silverton to Telluride, and rolls past gold-drenched hillsides and historic mining towns for hours. The whole loop starts and ends right here in Durango.
With so many things to do in Durango, the San Juan Skyway is just one reason we love autumn here. Our favorite hikes near Durango, like the Colorado Trail at Junction Creek, put you inside those aspen groves instead of just driving past them. Durango Jeep tours for off-road adventure take you deep into the high country on old mining roads. And Durango mountain biking is legendary for good reason, with hundreds of miles of singletrack from mellow river trails to the Horse Gulch network minutes from downtown. It is easy to spend an entire week in this area.
After a day exploring the San Juan Skyway, you will want to relax at the best Durango lodging. Blue Lake Ranch sits on a private ranch just west of Durango with views of the La Plata Mountains, a spring-fed lake, and lush gardens. As Southwest Colorado’s first Bed and Breakfast, we have spent decades perfecting the routine our guests love: a Southwest-inspired breakfast buffet to fuel the day, then an evening back at your own cabin or cottage, many with fireplaces and whirlpool tubs for cool mountain nights.
San Juan Skyway: What to Expect on the Drive
The San Juan Skyway is a 236-mile loop designated as an All-American Road, the highest level of scenic byway recognition the U.S. Secretary of Transportation can give, awarded in 1996. The full loop requires roughly six hours of driving without extended stops, though most visitors spend an entire day exploring the overlooks and mountain towns. Heading north from Durango on Highway 550, you will climb Coal Bank Pass and Molas Pass, both over 10,600 feet, with views of Pigeon and Turret Mountains and three fourteeners: Windom, Eolus, and Sunlight. In late September, the aspen groves along this stretch turn entire mountainsides gold, and the pullouts at Molas Pass are perfect for photos.
Then comes the stretch everyone talks about. From Silverton, the road becomes the Million Dollar Highway, climbing over Red Mountain Pass before clinging to the steep canyon walls of Uncompahgre Gorge as it descends into Ouray. Nobody knows for certain where the name came from, though local lore credits the construction cost, the views, or the gold ore left in the roadway fill.
The Million Dollar Highway is a serious mountain road with drop-offs lacking guardrails, so take it slow and trade drivers if you both want to enjoy the scenery. We always tell our guests to run the loop counterclockwise instead. Driving west from Durango first puts you on the inside of the steepest curves when you reach the Million Dollar Highway, with the rock wall beside you rather than the edge. Always check road conditions before you go, since fall weather in the high country changes fast. Early October can mean sunshine in Durango and snow flurries at the passes.
The towns break up the drive beautifully. Silverton’s downtown is a National Historic Landmark District, its architecture a leftover of early mining wealth, and the Old Hundred Gold Mine tour is a favorite attraction. Ouray, called the “Little Switzerland of America,” is home to Box Cañon Falls and a large natural hot springs pool. The leg from Silverton to Telluride crosses the Dallas Divide past Mount Sneffels, one of Colorado’s most iconic fall viewpoints, before dropping into the box canyon that holds Telluride, where you can ride the free gondola for aerial views of the fall colors. The return leg holds quieter charms, including the galleries and studios of the Mancos Creative District, and the turnoff for Mesa Verde National Park.
Among the scenic drives in Colorado, the San Juan Skyway stands out for its remarkable variety, with alpine passes, Victorian mining towns, river canyons, and ranch country all within a single loop. Start early, fill the tank in Durango, pack layers since higher elevations run cool even in warm months, and skip scheduling anything for the evening.
Durango Lodging Built for This Drive
A full day on the San Juan Skyway deserves an equally special place to begin and end your fall road trip. Blue Lake Ranch can help you make the most of your trip. Before you leave, the kitchen can pack a made-to-order picnic lunch, which beats hunting for a table in Telluride at peak leaf season. When you roll back in, there are 70 acres to stretch your legs on, or skip straight to a wine and cheese platter on your private patio while the La Platas catch the last light. Every room, suite, casita, and cabin here is individually decorated, ranging from the La Plata Vista Room with its whirlpool tub and private balcony to the Cabin on the Lake, which sleeps a full group with three bathrooms, two fireplaces, and a complete kitchen. Bringing the dog along for leaf season? The Cottage in the Woods and the River House are both pet-friendly.
Book Your Fall Road Trip Today
The aspens only give you a few weeks each fall. Book your stay at Blue Lake Ranch and come see why this loop tops every list of scenic drives in Colorado.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Million Dollar Highway?
The Million Dollar Highway is the stretch of U.S. Highway 550 between Silverton and Ouray, Colorado, and it forms one of the most dramatic legs of the San Juan Skyway.
Why is it called the Million Dollar Highway?
No one knows for certain. Local lore credits the original construction cost, the million-dollar views, or gold ore mixed into the roadway fill during construction.
How long is the Million Dollar Highway?
The Million Dollar Highway runs about 25 miles between Silverton and Ouray, though it is often used to describe a longer stretch of Highway 550 through the San Juan Mountains.
Is the San Juan Skyway dangerous to drive?
The Million Dollar Highway section has steep drop-offs without guardrails, so drivers should go slowly and consider running the loop counterclockwise from Durango to stay on the inside of the sharpest curves.
Take a Hike
Explore the Beautiful Tumalo Falls
Tucked into the Deschutes National Forest west of Bend, Tumalo Falls is one of Central Oregon’s most beautiful summer destinations for families for hiking. The 97-foot waterfall is the tallest in the region, and visitors often hear the powerful rush of Tumalo Creek before the falls come into view.
Located about 14 miles from Bend, the drive to Tumalo Falls adds to the experience, especially as the paved road transitions into gravel through dense forest and volcanic terrain. During the busy summer season, the Tumalo Falls Day Use Area fills quickly, so arriving early is the best way to secure parking and enjoy quieter trails.
The lower viewpoint is ideal for families with younger children or anyone looking for a short walk with a dramatic payoff. The overlook places visitors directly in front of the waterfall, creating one of the most photographed viewpoints near Bend. For those looking for a more active outing, the upper viewpoint trail climbs steadily above the canyon and rewards hikers with panoramic views of the falls and the surrounding forest.
More experienced hikers often continue onto the Tumalo Falls Loop, a challenging seven-mile route that crosses Tumalo Creek, winds through open meadows, and passes additional waterfalls hidden throughout the forest. The Tumalo Creek Trail is another excellent option for families seeking a moderate summer hike with gentler elevation gain and scenic creekside views.
Summer also brings opportunities for wildlife viewing throughout the region. Visitors regularly spot owls, woodpeckers, meadowlarks, and even bald eagles near the creek and surrounding forest. With mountain scenery, accessible trails, and countless outdoor activities nearby, Tumalo Falls Oregon remains one of the best summer destinations for families visiting Central Oregon.
Many travelers pair a morning at Tumalo Falls with an afternoon exploring downtown Bend, visiting local breweries, paddleboarding the Deschutes River, or stopping at Tumalo State Park for swimming and picnicking. The variety of activities makes this area especially appealing for summer family trips.
Cabin Rentals in Oregon Near Tumalo Falls
After a full day outdoors, cabin rentals in Oregon provide a comfortable way to experience the landscape around Bend. Staying in a cabin near Tumalo Falls keeps visitors close to hiking trails, mountain biking routes, and other things to do in Bend while offering space to relax after long days outside.
Historic Gilchrist Waterfront Resort is one of the best places for family vacations in Central Oregon.
Take a Hike
Explore Nolde Forest During a Summer Adventure in Pennsylvania
Nolde Forest is a fabulous outdoor destinations near Reading, PA, especially during the summer months when the trails, streams, and wooded landscapes are at their most vibrant. Located just south of the city, this protected property gives visitors access to more than 700 acres of carefully preserved forest, along with miles of hiking trails that welcome everyone from casual walkers to experienced outdoor enthusiasts.
For visitors searching for things to do in Reading, PA, Nolde Forest offers a quieter alternative to crowded tourist attractions. The Nolde Forest Environmental Education Center combines natural beauty with local history, creating a setting where visitors can enjoy hiking, wildlife observation, photography, and peaceful time outdoors. The land was originally purchased in 1904 by conservationist Jacob Nolde, whose vision transformed the property into one of southeastern Pennsylvania’s most respected forest environments.
Today, visitors can explore approximately 10 miles of trails that pass through hardwood forests, pine plantations, streams, ponds, and historic landmarks. The Watershed Trail remains one of the most popular routes for first-time visitors, following Punches Run along a scenic woodland loop. The Buck Hollow Trail offers another memorable experience, winding through changing forest terrain and leading toward Painted Turtle Pond. During summer, the Kohout Trail becomes especially appealing for seasonal greenery and shaded hiking conditions.
There are so many things to do in Berks County: scenic drives, local dining, farmers markets, and cultural attractions. Whether you are planning a weekend hiking trip or a longer summer escape, Nolde Forest continues to stand out as one of the best things to do in Pennsylvania for travelers who appreciate authentic outdoor experiences. Between the peaceful trails, preserved landscapes, and nearby lodging, it is easy to turn a simple hike into a memorable mountain getaway.
Stay Near Nolde Forest at a Bed and Breakfast in Pennsylvania
After a day on the trails, The South Mountain Inn provides a comfortable place to unwind near Nolde Forest State Parks. Surrounded by wooded grounds, this Bed and Breakfast in Pennsylvania creates an experience centered around thoughtful hospitality and relaxing accommodations. Guests can begin the morning with fresh coffee delivered directly to their room before heading out to explore the surrounding area.