Outdoor Adventures
Things to Do in Midland MI
Best Chippewa Nature Center Trails and Things to Do
Chippewa Nature Center offers one of the most complete outdoor experiences in the Midwest, combining expansive trails, wildlife observation, and cultural history just outside Midland, Michigan. Spanning more than 2,000 acres, the park offers space to explore forests, wetlands, and riverfront landscapes that change throughout the year. With 19 miles of trails open daily, it is easy to spend a full day walking without covering the same ground twice.
The River Trail serves as a natural starting point, following the Chippewa River through open stretches and wooded areas where wildlife sightings are common. Further into the property, the Arboretum introduces more than 100 species of native trees and shrubs across 16 acres, offering a closer look at Michigan’s natural ecosystems. The Oxbow area, shaped by a historic flood, features mature forests and a dense habitat that supports a wide range of wildlife, making it one of the most compelling areas for observation among parks in Midland MI.
The preserved 1870s homestead, with its original buildings and seasonal demonstrations, connects visitors to the region’s agricultural past. An observation tower overlooks the surrounding wetlands, while river access offers opportunities for kayaking and canoeing in the warmer months. The Chippewa Nature Center is far more than a walk in the woods.
With additional things to do in Midland MI, including Dow Gardens, Whiting Forest, and a walkable downtown, it is easy to build an itinerary with a visit to Chippewa Nature Center anchoring the experience.
Where to Stay Near Midland MI
A well-planned weekend benefits from thoughtful accommodations, and nearby Bay City offers an ideal place to stay. Historic Webster House provides a refined Michigan Bed and Breakfast alternative to standard lodging, pairing restored architecture with attentive hospitality. Guests can return from a full day outdoors to luxurious rooms and a multi-course breakfast each morning, with personalized hospitality.
Unforgettable Juneau Tours & Summer Excursions
Best Juneau Tours to Experience in Alaska This Summer
Summer is one of the most exciting times to explore Alaska, especially for travelers searching for unforgettable Juneau Tours. From glacier adventures to wildlife encounters on the water, Juneau offers experiences that highlight the dramatic landscapes and coastal beauty of the Last Frontier. Whether you are planning an adventure getaway or looking for memorable tours in Juneau, Alaska, there are countless ways to experience the region this season.
One of the most popular summer activities is taking Juneau whale-watching tours departing from Auke Bay. These excursions take guests into the nutrient-rich waters of the Inside Passage, where humpback whales are frequently spotted breaching, tail slapping, and bubble-net feeding. Many tours also encounter sea lions, porpoises, or bald eagles during the journey, creating an incredible opportunity to witness Alaska’s wildlife in its natural environment.
For those interested in aerial views of the landscape, Juneau helicopter tours provide a completely different perspective. Flights depart near downtown and travel across forested ridgelines toward the Juneau Icefield. Guests can land directly on ancient glaciers, explore icy terrain with expert guides, and even visit summer dog sledding camps. These excursions combine scenic views with hands-on adventure, making them one of the most memorable experiences in the region.
Visitors looking for more relaxed Juneau glacier tours often head to Mendenhall Glacier and Nugget Falls. Well-maintained trails, scenic overlooks, and educational exhibits at the visitor center make this area ideal for travelers wanting flexibility and easy access to Alaska’s natural beauty. Boat tours through Tracy Arm Fjord are another favorite, offering views of waterfalls, towering granite cliffs, drifting icebergs, and the impressive Sawyer Glaciers. By far, one of the best things to do in Juneau!
Stay at one of the Best Alaska Hotels
After a full day outdoors, staying close to downtown makes exploring Juneau even easier. Alaska’s Capital Inn provides a welcoming place to unwind near the waterfront, local restaurants, and major tour departure points. As one of the most inviting Alaska Hotels in Juneau, the inn combines historic character with thoughtful hospitality, creating a comfortable home base for summer adventures. Guests can begin each day with a fresh breakfast before setting out to experience the best Juneau tours Alaska has to offer.
Views Near Coos Bay
Best Cape Arago State Park Views on the Southern Oregon Coast
Cape Arago State Park is one of the most rewarding stops along the Southern Oregon Coast, combining dramatic ocean scenery, wildlife viewing, and fascinating coastal history in one accessible destination. Located about 45 minutes north of Bandon, this rugged headland gives visitors a closer look at some of the most ecologically diverse shoreline landscapes in Oregon. From tide pools filled with marine life to sweeping blufftop views, Cape Arago State Park easily earns a place on any list of the best things to do on the Oregon Coast.
The park sits along the scenic Cape Arago Highway, which also connects visitors to Shore Acres State Park and Sunset Bay State Park. Together, these destinations create an easy coastal driving route packed with beaches, hiking trails, and panoramic viewpoints near Coos Bay. The area also carries a long history, beginning with early exploration along the Pacific Coast and continuing through the region’s maritime heritage.
One of the most popular features of Cape Arago State Park is the North Cove Trail, which leads toward rocky shoreline access and excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. Harbor seals and Steller sea lions are often visible resting near Shell Island National Wildlife Refuge. Seasonal trail closures from March through June help protect marine mammals during pupping season, reinforcing the area’s strong conservation efforts.
The South Cove Trail offers a quieter experience, leading visitors down to a sandy stretch ideal for beach walks and summer tide pooling. During low tide, the Cape Arago tide pools reveal sea stars, sea anemones, mussels, hermit crabs, and colorful nudibranchs tucked among the rocks. Birdwatchers may also spot oystercatchers and gulls working along the shoreline.
Nearby viewpoints also provide excellent opportunities to see the historic Cape Arago Lighthouse, a striking coastal landmark perched offshore. While the lighthouse itself is not open to visitors, it remains one of the most photographed sights along this section of the coast.
Stay Near Cape Arago at Bandon Hotels
After a full day exploring the beaches, trails, and tide pools, returning to comfortable accommodations in Bandon completes the experience. Inn at Face Rock continues to stand out among Bandon Oregon Hotels for travelers planning family beach trips along the Southern Oregon Coast. Guests enjoy direct beach access, a heated pool, and a welcoming atmosphere that makes it easy to relax after a day outdoors. Whether you are planning a weekend escape or a longer summer coastal vacation, this region offers some of the most memorable scenery in Oregon.
Visit Lassen Volcanic National Park
Hike to Kings Creek Falls for a Summer Adventure
Lassen Volcanic National Park is one of Northern California’s most stunning destinations, especially during summer when alpine meadows bloom and waterfalls surge with snowmelt. Among the many things to do in Lassen National Park, the Kings Creek Falls trail stands out for its combination of dramatic scenery, manageable terrain, and unforgettable views. For those looking for an accessible mountain adventure, Kings Creek Falls delivers one of the most scenic hiking experiences in the region.
The Kings Creek Falls trail is a 2.5-mile out-and-back route with an optional loop extension that adds variety and creekside scenery. Starting at an elevation of around 7,400 feet, the trail gradually descends through volcanic terrain, open meadows, and shaded forest before reaching the waterfall itself. Early summer is the ideal time to hike, typically from late June through July, when the waterfall runs strongest, and wildflowers cover the landscape.
One of the highlights of Kings Creek Falls Lassen is the constant shift in scenery throughout the hike. The upper trail features expansive mountain views and wide-open skies, while the lower canyon becomes cooler and more secluded as the sound of rushing water grows louder. The final approach reveals the impressive 30-foot Lassen Volcanic National Park waterfall tucked into a rocky canyon, creating one of the most memorable photo opportunities in the park.
For hikers looking to experience more of the surrounding landscape, the loop option combines the Upper Meadow Trail with the Falls Trail for a broader look at the alpine terrain and creek drainage. Arriving early is recommended during summer weekends, as parking at the trailhead fills quickly.
Comfortable Lassen National Park Lodging
After a full day exploring Lassen Volcanic National Park trails, St. Bernard Lodge offers a comfortable mountain retreat close to the park. Guests can enjoy home-cooked meals at the on-site restaurant, relax in the welcoming tavern, and return to private accommodations instead of crowded campgrounds. The property’s spacious grounds, horse corrals, and personalized hospitality create a setting that feels connected to the surrounding wilderness while still offering the comforts travelers appreciate after a long hike.
Whether you are planning a weekend mountain getaway or a longer Northern California road trip, our relaxing Lassen National Park lodging is the ideal homebase. Book your summer stay today.
Visit Moss Glen Falls this Spring in Vermont
Explore Moss Glen Falls on Your Vermont Getaway
Moss Glen Falls stands out as one of the best waterfalls in Vermont, offering a rewarding combination of accessibility, scenic beauty, and a well-maintained trail. Located just outside Stowe, this destination is ideal for travelers looking to experience Vermont waterfalls without committing to a long or strenuous hike.
The trail to Moss Glen Falls, VT, begins at a small parking area along Moss Glen Falls Road. From there, a short path leads through wetlands and forest, with boardwalk sections that help preserve the natural landscape. Within about a quarter mile, visitors reach a viewing area that reveals the full height of the falls as water drops roughly 125 feet down a steep rock face. During periods of snowmelt or after rainfall, the flow becomes especially powerful, creating one of the most dramatic waterfall views in the region.
While the main overlook is the highlight, those interested in extending their time outdoors can continue along the trail into Putnam State Forest. This area offers a deeper look at Vermont hiking trails, with additional opportunities to explore wooded terrain and follow the brook upstream. Waterfall chasing is just one of the best things to do in the Mad River Valley!
Stay at a Charming Vermont Bed and Breakfast
After a day visiting Moss Glen Falls and other nearby attractions, returning to a Vermont Bed and Breakfast provides a comfortable and well-appointed retreat. Located in the Mad River Valley, West Hill House B&B offers easy access to waterfalls in Vermont while maintaining a quiet, country setting. It’s a lovely place for a couple’s getaway in Vermont!
Each guest room is individually designed and includes en suite bathrooms, premium linens, and thoughtful amenities that support a restful stay. Guests can unwind in the common areas, stroll through the landscaped grounds, or relax in outdoor spaces such as the gazebo or the pond area.
Mornings begin with a freshly prepared breakfast featuring locally sourced ingredients, along with coffee or tea. The Inn also provides helpful guidance on planning visits to the best waterfalls in Vermont, nearby scenic drives, and additional places to visit.
Whether you are planning a focused hiking trip or adding a scenic stop to your itinerary, Moss Glen Falls remains one of the most memorable things to do in Vermont.
Visit Swallow Falls State Park
Hike to Muddy Creek Falls
For travelers planning a summer mountain getaway in western Maryland, Muddy Creek Falls remains one of the most rewarding natural attractions in the region. Located in Swallow Falls State Park, this 53-foot waterfall is the highest free-falling waterfall in Maryland and one of the most photographed spots near Deep Creek Lake. Surrounded by towering hemlocks, moss-covered rocks, and rushing water, the landscape feels dramatically different from much of the Mid-Atlantic region.
The Canyon Loop Trail gives visitors access to several Deep Creek waterfalls in a relatively short hike. Along the route, hikers can experience Muddy Creek Falls, Upper Swallow Falls, Lower Swallow Falls, and Tolliver Falls, all within roughly one mile. The trail winds through one of the most important old-growth forests on the East Coast, where some of the trees date back centuries. Visitors looking for an easier option can use the handicap-accessible overlook trail to enjoy Muddy Creek Falls without completing the full loop.
Summer is an excellent season to visit Swallow Falls State Park, especially for travelers combining hiking with the many things to do in Deep Creek MD. Deep Creek Lake offers boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, and lakeside dining throughout the warmer months. Outdoor enthusiasts can also explore nearby state forests, horseback riding trails, and white-water rafting opportunities on the Savage River.
Deep Creek Hotels Near Swallow Falls State Park
After a day spent exploring Deep Creek Falls and the trails around Swallow Falls State Park, finding the right lodging becomes part of the experience. Lake Pointe Inn offers a quieter alternative to traditional Deep Creek Lake Hotels, combining waterfront accommodations with personalized hospitality in an arts-and-crafts-style setting overlooking the lake.
Guests can start the morning with a gourmet breakfast before heading out to the trails or returning to the property to relax by the water after a full day outdoors. Its convenient location near Swallow Falls State Park makes it an ideal base for visitors wanting easy access to hiking, lake activities, and scenic mountain drives throughout Garrett County.
Whether you are planning a weekend hiking trip, a summer adventure getaway, or simply searching for the best things to do in Deep Creek MD, Muddy Creek Falls deserves a place on the itinerary. Between the waterfalls, old-growth forest, and nearby Deep Creek Lake attractions, this part of Maryland offers an outdoor experience that feels both accessible and memorable.
Visit The Most Gorgeous Islands in Washington State
Islands in Washington State Near Seattle
If you are looking at islands in Washington State near Seattle for a weekend escape, the San Juan Islands are one of the most convenient and rewarding options. Many travelers start with the drive north to Anacortes, then board the San Juan Island Ferry for a scenic crossing that sets the tone for the trip. Because the ferry routes link San Juan Island, Orcas Island, Lopez Island, and Shaw Island, it is easy to plan a focused weekend on one island or build in simple island hopping.
If you’re looking for bustling activity hubs while visiting these islands in Washington state, head to San Juan Island. There, you’ll find Friday Harbor offering a walkable waterfront lined with restaurants, galleries, marinas, and the Whale Museum. It’s certainly one of the more popular islands in Washington State. From town, you can enjoy all the best things to do on San Juan Island, including joining a whale watching tour or heading out for shore-based viewing at Lime Kiln Point Lighthouse, a well-known landmark with excellent coastal vantage points. For history, American Camp and English Camp provide a grounded look at the Pig War boundary dispute and the landscapes that shaped it.
Orcas Island is another popular stop in these islands in Washington State. Orcas is known for varied terrain and elevated viewpoints. Moran State Park is a centerpiece, and the climb up Mount Constitution is one of the region’s most memorable hikes, with sweeping views over the Salish Sea on clear days. In Eastsound, you can browse local art at places like Crow Valley Gallery, then break for a meal before continuing your drive around the island.
Lopez Island is popular with cyclists thanks to quieter roads and gentler grades, plus coastal stops such as Spencer Spit State Park and Shark Reef Sanctuary. Shaw Island is the quietest of the four, with minimal development, a single general store near the ferry landing, and shoreline access at Shaw County Park that suits travelers who want a slower pace.
A San Juan Island hotel that keeps the weekend easy
Staying within walking distance of the Friday Harbor ferry dock simplifies arrival day and makes it easier to spend more time exploring. Our San Juan Island hotel offers well-appointed guest rooms, spacious suites, and private cottages that can accommodate families and dogs. Breakfast is delivered to your room each morning, and a concierge team helps with details such as whale-watching reservations, restaurant recommendations, kayak outfitters, and scenic drives. Book directly to keep your weekend plans smooth from the first ferry to the final sunset.
Visit these Breathtaking Waterfalls in Michigan
Best Waterfalls in Michigan for a Midwest Adventure
Michigan is home to more than 300 waterfalls, making it one of the most compelling destinations in the Midwest for outdoor exploration. From powerful river cascades to quiet forest streams, discovering waterfalls in Michigan offers a direct connection to the state’s diverse landscapes. While many of the most dramatic sites are located in the Upper Peninsula, the Lower Peninsula also features accessible, rewarding stops worth adding to any itinerary.
Waterfalls in Upper Michigan often define the experience for first-time visitors. Tahquamenon Falls, located within Tahquamenon Falls State Park, is one of the most recognized examples. The Upper Falls span nearly 200 feet and drop approximately 50 feet, creating one of the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi River. Nearby, the Lower Falls offer a contrasting experience, with smaller cascades set amid wooded islands. In Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Munising Falls and Miners Falls offer short, scenic walks leading to impressive viewpoints. Further west, the Black River Scenic Byway connects multiple waterfalls, including Gorge Falls and Rainbow Falls, creating a route that combines driving with short hikes.
Beyond the Upper Peninsula, waterfalls in Lower Michigan provide a quieter but equally engaging experience. Ocqueoc Falls, the largest waterfall in the Lower Peninsula, features accessible pathways and a wide limestone cascade. Iargo Springs, located near the Au Sable River, offers both a small waterfall and a scenic overlook, accessible via a staircase trail. Additional stops, such as Irontone Springs and the Seven Bridges Recreation Area, introduce smaller waterways and forest settings. Chasing waterfalls is just one of the best things to do in Michigan!
Stay at a Bed and Breakfast in Michigan
After a full day exploring waterfalls in Michigan, choosing a Bed and Breakfast in Michigan adds comfort and a local perspective to your trip. These properties often provide convenient access to nearby parks, scenic routes, and trail systems, making them a practical base for continued exploration.
Guests can expect thoughtfully prepared breakfasts, well-maintained guest rooms, and insight from Innkeepers who understand the surrounding region. Whether you are exploring waterfalls in Upper Michigan or planning stops across the Lower Peninsula, when choosing from places to stay in Michigan, a B&B supports a more connected and efficient travel experience. Booking in advance ensures availability, particularly during peak travel periods when outdoor adventures are at their most popular.
Walk in the Redwood Tree Canopy
The Redwood Skywalk in Eureka CA
The Redwood Skywalk at Sequoia Park Zoo offers one of the most engaging ways to experience the California Redwood Forest from above. This self-guided canopy walk features a network of suspended bridges and platforms rising up to 100 feet, giving visitors a direct view into the upper reaches of towering redwoods. Unlike traditional forest trails, this elevated perspective reveals the scale and structure of these ancient trees in a truly unique way.
Spanning 1,104 feet, the Redwood Skywalk is the longest canopy walk of its kind in the western United States. The gradual ascent leads visitors through the forest with minimal disruption, while an optional adventure section introduces a more dynamic crossing with open mesh decking. The main route remains accessible, allowing a wide range of visitors to enjoy the experience comfortably. Admission also includes entry to Sequoia Park Zoo, California’s oldest zoo, which houses a diverse collection of animals in a compact, thoughtfully designed setting.
Eureka has a well-preserved historic district with Victorian architecture, including the widely recognized Carson Mansion. Its proximity to the Redwood Skywalk and the California Redwood Forest makes it easy to combine outdoor exploration with cultural landmarks. There are so many things to do on the Redwood Coast.
The surrounding area offers a range of experiences for those seeking more ways to explore. Scenic drives along the Redwood Highway connect visitors to dense groves, coastal viewpoints, and trail systems that extend for miles. Stops such as Trees of Mystery offer another perspective on the redwood canopy, combining elevated walkways with interpretive elements.
Whether you are walking among the treetops or exploring the forest floor, the Redwood Skywalk stands out as a defining coastal adventure and a key highlight among things to do in Eureka CA.
Redwood National Park Hotels
For those planning an extended stay, Carter House Inns offers a refined lodging option in the heart of Eureka. Set within restored Victorian buildings, the property places guests within walking distance of downtown and key attractions. As one of the notable hotels near Redwood National Park, it provides a convenient base for exploring nearby destinations such as Redwood National Park, Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park, and additional redwood canopy tours throughout the region.