Outdoor Adventures
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.
Take a Hike to Finger Lakes Waterfalls
Discover Robert Treman State Park: A Finger Lakes Gem
Few places capture the wild beauty of the Finger Lakes quite like Robert Treman State Park. Just outside Ithaca, this stunning park invites you into a world of cascading waterfalls, ancient gorges, and lush forested trails. At the heart of the park flows Enfield Glen, a breathtaking stream that winds through layers of sculpted rock, revealing the region’s raw geological story with every twist and turn. It’s the kind of scenery that feels almost too beautiful to be real.
With approximately nine miles of trails ranging from leisurely walks to more challenging climbs, there’s something here for every type of explorer. The crown jewel is the Gorge Trail, a spectacular route that winds alongside the water past 12 distinct waterfalls. The showstopper? Lucifer Falls, a magnificent 115-foot plunge that commands attention and rewards every step of the hike to reach it. And Robert Treman is just the beginning: the surrounding Finger Lakes region is dotted with other stunning waterfalls waiting to be discovered nearby.
The park’s upper and lower sections offer two distinct flavors of adventure. Head upward for more rugged, elevation-gaining trails with sweeping views, or settle into the lower park’s inviting swimming holes and shaded picnic areas, perfect for a lazy afternoon with family or friends.
Throughout the seasons, the surrounding hemlock and hardwood forests transform the landscape into something entirely new: vibrant greens in summer, fiery colors in fall, and a peaceful stillness in the colder months. Birdwatchers will also find plenty to love, with a wide variety of species making their home among the trees year-round.
Where to Stay: Make the Most of Your Finger Lakes Escape
A park this beautiful deserves an equally memorable place to rest your head. Just 20 minutes from Robert Treman, the Inn at Gothic Eves offers a luxurious boutique retreat that feels like a world apart. Far from your average lodging property, this charming Boutique Finger Lakes Hotel is designed for those who want to slow down and get away from it all.
After a day on the trails, soak your cares away in the outdoor hot tub, indulge in a massage at their on-site spa, and sink into spacious, beautifully appointed guest rooms. Each morning, a thoughtfully prepared multi-course breakfast, crafted with fresh, seasonal ingredients, sets the perfect tone before you head back out to explore. With easy access to the best things to do in the Finger Lakes from Ithaca’s state parks to acclaimed local wineries and fantastic dining, the Inn at Gothic Eves isn’t just a place to stay in the Finger Lakes, it’s a destination in its own right.
Take a Lake Getaway
What Makes Crescent Lake Oregon Worth the Drive
Crescent Lake, Oregon, sits inside the Deschutes National Forest, about 66 miles southwest of Bend, and it draws far more locals than tourists, which tells you something. The lake formed inside a glaciated basin behind a natural moraine dam, giving it water clear enough to watch a paddle disappear a few feet down. At 4,547 acres, with 12.4 miles of shoreline and a maximum depth of 265 feet, this is a real lake built for a full day on the water, not an afternoon stop.
Within an hour of the lake, you can reach Crater Lake National Park, the breweries of downtown Bend, and a long list of hikes and volcanic sites that make Central Oregon a compelling destination.
Crescent Lake Outdoor Adventures
Crescent Lake is open to motorized and non-motorized boats, so the range of activity on a calm afternoon is wide: sailing, water skiing, windsurfing, and plenty of paddling. If you don’t want to haul your own gear, Crescent Lake Oregon boat rentals are available directly at Crescent Lake Resort, and two boat launches make it easy to get out whether you’re trolling for Mackinaw or paddling out for the afternoon.
Crescent Lake fishing is built around lake trout, known locally as Mackinaw, typically running 5 to 10 pounds with an occasional 20-pounder. The record catch weighed 30 pounds back in 1993. In spring, mackinaw hold shallow, around 5 to 10 feet near the north end. By summer, they drop to 80 to 130 feet, so July anglers need the right gear or a lot of patience.
Kokanee salmon run smaller, usually 12 to 14 inches at depths of 30 to 60 feet, with better numbers near the north end and along the southeast shore by Simax Beach. Rainbow and brown trout are more forgiving, especially early season, and both can be caught from shore or a float tube without launching a boat at all. Fishing season runs from late April through October.
Worth knowing before you go: irrigation draw lowers the lake through the summer, and by season’s end, the water level can drop as much as 15 feet. If a late summer trip depends on boat launch access, check current lake levels before you load the truck.
The Salt Creek Falls Trail is a short, moderate hike ending at a waterfall, a solid pick for families or anyone short on time. Summit Lake Trail draws hikers and mountain bikers, with views of Diamond Peak that make the climb worthwhile. The Pacific Crest Trail run along the north shore of nearby Odell Lake, part of a regional trail network exceeding 1,600 miles. The area also has dedicated trails for horseback riding and off-road vehicles.
Come winter, the same trails switch over to snowshoeing and snowmobiling making this a year-round destination.
Cabin Rentals in Oregon Near Crescent Lake
There’s no shortage of camping at Crescent Lake, but for travelers who’d rather skip the vault toilets, cabin rentals in Oregon are the better call. Historic Gilchrist Waterfront Resort sits about 35 minutes from Crescent Lake, close enough for an easy day trip, with private kitchenettes, full bathrooms, a heated lap pool, and a hot tub waiting when you get back. Spread across 12 acres with tennis and basketball courts, yard games, and kayaks, pedal boats, and pontoon access on site, it’s a comfortable home base for a lake getaway that doesn’t end when the fishing does.
Take a Natural Break at the Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center
Rest & Walk at the Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center
A visit to the Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center offers a refreshing addition to any weekend on the Connecticut coast. Located just minutes from downtown, this protected landscape provides an easy way to step away from busy itineraries filled with shops, dining, and waterfront attractions. With well-marked paths and a quiet natural setting, it stands out among the most accessible things to do near Mystic.
Set across approximately 350 acres, the Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center connects visitors to the region’s defining ecosystems, including forests, wetlands, and open meadows. More than ten miles of Mystic trails wind through the property and extend toward nearby Coogan Farm, creating a network suitable for both short walks and longer outings. Along the way, visitors may encounter a wide range of wildlife, including many of the 175 recorded bird species that inhabit the area.
Inside, the nature center expands the experience with exhibits focused on local ecosystems and native wildlife. Live displays feature reptiles, amphibians, and fish, while outdoor enclosures house rehabilitated birds of prey. Educational programs, guided walks, and seasonal events further position this Connecticut nature center as one of the more engaging Mystic attractions for visitors of all ages.
A Mystic Hotel Within Walking Distance of Downtown
After time spent exploring Mystic parks and wooded trails, returning to a comfortable and centrally located stay enhances the overall experience. The Whalers Inn places guests in the heart of downtown, within walking distance of dining, shops, and the waterfront. The convenient location of our Mystic Hotel makes it easy to balance outdoor activities with the rest of what to do in Mystic.
Guests can enjoy on-site dining throughout the day, along with thoughtful amenities designed for both relaxation and convenience. Accommodations range from family-friendly rooms with built-in bunk spaces to curated add-ons, including in-room cocktails and charcuterie. With its central location and well-appointed spaces, this Mystic hotel supports a seamless weekend that moves easily between nature, town, and evening plans.
Take a Nature Break
Explore Delta National Forest on Your Mississippi Adventure
For visitors searching for Mississippi nature experiences, Delta National Forest is one of the most distinctive outdoor destinations in the South. Located in the heart of the Mississippi Delta, this remarkable forest spans roughly 60,000 acres and stands as the only bottomland hardwood forest in the National Forest System. With scenic waterways, rich wildlife habitats, and peaceful hiking trails, it is one of the best things to do in Mississippi for outdoor enthusiasts planning a weekend escape or Mississippi road trip.
Just a short drive from Vicksburg, the Delta National Forest gives visitors the opportunity to experience hiking in Mississippi from a completely different perspective. The forest features 19 multi-use trails ranging from easy walks to longer routes winding through wetlands, wooded lowlands, and reservoirs. The changing landscape creates an unforgettable setting for birdwatching, photography, and wildlife viewing throughout the year.
Fishing is another popular activity inside the forest, with bayous and oxbow lakes filled with bass, catfish, and bream. Hunters and nature photographers also appreciate the diversity of wildlife found throughout the region. During migration seasons, birders can often spot wood ducks, prothonotary warblers, great blue herons, and countless other species traveling the Mississippi Flyway.
Visitors can continue their Mississippi adventure at nearby destinations including Vicksburg National Military Park, the Riverfront Mural Promenade, Tensas River National Wildlife Refuge, and the Mississippi Petrified Forest. Whether you are planning a weekend getaway or a longer Mississippi road trip, Vicksburg offers easy access to some of the region’s most memorable outdoor experiences.
Stay at a Hotel in Vicksburg Mississippi
After a full day exploring the trails and waterways of Delta National Forest, Oak Hall offers a relaxing and refined place to recharge. Located in a beautifully restored 1910 mansion, this Hotel in Vicksburg Mississippi combines historic architecture with modern comfort in a quiet neighborhood close to the area’s most popular attractions.
Guests can unwind in spacious accommodations featuring comfortable bedding, private en suite bathrooms, cozy seating areas, and elegant historic details throughout the property. Dedicated innkeepers provide personalized recommendations for local dining, scenic drives, and additional places to see in Mississippi, helping guests make the most of every stay.
Book your stay at Oak Hall and discover why the Delta National Forest remains one of the most rewarding things to do near Vicksburg MS.
Take One of the Best Hikes in Albuquerque
Discover the Elena Gallegos Open Space
Elena Gallegos Open Space is 640 acres of high desert terrain set right against the base of the Sandia Mountains, and it consistently ranks among the best hikes in Albuquerque for one simple reason: it offers something for every skill level within a quick drive from the city. A network of ten trails winds through the park, from short, flat walks to demanding climbs that connect straight into the Sandia Mountain Wilderness. Whether you have an hour or a full morning, Elena Gallegos offers an Albuquerque hiking trails experience that keeps people coming back.
The Albuquerque Open Space is named for Elena Gallegos, who took over her family ranch after her husband’s death and became the first woman in the region to run her own livestock business. The land grant she managed in 1716 stretched from the Sandia crest to the Rio Grande, and this open space is one of the last untouched pieces of it, protected from development since 1969.
Go Hiking on These Trails at Elena Gallegos Open Space
Two routes stand out among the Elena Gallegos Open Space trails. The Domingo Baca Trail runs about 7.5 miles out and back, starting flat before dropping into a canyon that follows a creek bed most of the way. The final stretch turns steep and rocky, leading to the site of a 1955 TWA plane crash marked along the trail, a quiet spot worth pausing at. Good footwear and plenty of water are a must, since the climb near the top is demanding.
For a longer challenge, head to the Pino Trailhead and take on the Pino Trail, a roughly nine-mile round trip that gains close to 2,800 feet in elevation. The trail moves through three distinct climate zones, starting among juniper and cholla near the base, climbing into ponderosa pine, and finishing near aspen and spruce close to the top. The views over Pino Canyon toward the Rio Grande Valley make the effort worth it, and hikers can turn back partway or continue on to the South Crest Trail.
What to Expect Along the Way
Elena Gallegos sits in a pinon juniper habitat mixed with scrub oak, cactus, and native grasses, and it’s one of the better birdwatching spots in the city thanks to the mix of high desert and riparian terrain near the mountain base. Hawks are common overhead, especially on quieter winter days, and the park is also home to coyotes, deer, bobcats, and the occasional bear, so keep a respectful distance from any wildlife you spot.
Fall is the best season for hiking Elena Gallegos Open Space, particularly late afternoon, when the cottonwoods turn gold, and the Sandia Mountains catch the last light in shades of pink and orange. Spring brings wildflowers, summer mornings are pleasant before the afternoon heat sets in, and winter dusts the peaks with snow for a quieter, more solitary hike.
The Sandia Peak Tramway offers those same sweeping mountain views without breaking a sweat, if you’d rather ride than hike up.
Where to Stay After a Day on the Trails
After hiking Elena Gallegos Open Space, you’ll want a comfortable place close enough to the foothills to make an early start easy. Bottger Mansion is an Old Town Albuquerque Bed and Breakfast, set inside a 1912 home on the National Register of Historic Places. Innkeepers Steve and Kathy have run the property since 2004, and every one of the seven guest rooms comes with a private bath, free WiFi, Roku streaming, plush robes, and complimentary cookies and beverages.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long are the trails at Elena Gallegos Open Space?
Trail length varies widely. The Domingo Baca Trail is about 7.5 miles out and back, while the Pino Trail runs roughly nine miles round trip. Shorter, flatter routes are also available for a quicker outing.
What makes the Domingo Baca Trail unique?
Beyond the elevation and canyon scenery, the trail leads to the site of a 1955 TWA plane crash, marked along the route for hikers who want to stop and learn the history.
Where does the Pino Trailhead lead?
The Pino Trailhead is the starting point for the Pino Trail, a nine-mile climb through three climate zones that ends with sweeping views of Pino Canyon and the Rio Grande Valley.
What wildlife might you see at Elena Gallegos Open Space?
Hikers regularly spot hawks, coyotes, deer, and bobcats, with bears occasionally reported in the area. Binoculars are worth bringing for the birdwatching alone.
When is the best time to hike Elena Gallegos Open Space?
Fall, especially late afternoon, offers the best combination of comfortable temperatures, fall color, and mountain sunsets. Summer mornings work well before the afternoon heat arrives.
Ready to explore Albuquerque’s best hiking trails and unwind afterward at a historic Old Town Albuquerque Bed and Breakfast? Book your stay at Bottger Mansion and make Elena Gallegos Open Space part of your next visit.
The Best Girls’ Weekend Getaway Near Seattle
Best Girls Weekend Getaway Near Seattle
Planning a girls’ weekend getaway near Seattle is about finding a place that feels like a true escape without requiring a long journey. Just a few hours from the city, the Columbia River Gorge offers dramatic mountain scenery, fresh air, and space to slow down together. It is the kind of setting where conversations last longer, laughter comes easier, and the weekend feels intentionally different from everyday life.
A girls’ getaway weekend in the Gorge naturally balances time outdoors with moments of indulgence. There’s no shortage of sensational things to do in the Columbia River Gorge, whether alone or with a group of friends. Days can begin with scenic hikes to waterfalls or relaxed walks through nearby vineyards overlooking the river. Hood River and White Salmon are close by, making it easy to plan wine tastings, casual lunches, and afternoons spent browsing local shops. These shared experiences turn a simple trip into one of the best girls’ weekend trips you’ll talk about long after you return home.
Luxury Cabins Designed for Girls’ Trips in Washington
Where you stay matters, especially for a girls’ weekend getaway. Our luxury cabin getaways in Washington are designed to support connection, with spacious layouts, cozy fireplaces, soaking tubs, and outdoor areas perfect for meaningful conversations. After a full day exploring, everyone can unwind with a soak enhanced by Dead Sea Bath Salts, or book an in-cabin massage for a little extra indulgence.
Evenings are made for gathering, whether that means dining at nearby local restaurants, enjoying a relaxed night in with wine and snacks, or ending the day around an outdoor fire pit. These moments often become the real gift of your girls’ trips, creating memories that feel richer than a quick dinner back home.
This is one of the best getaways near Seattle that offers such flexibility. Whether you plan full days of activity or let the weekend unfold slowly, leaving space for rest and connection, you’ll leave feeling refreshed and energized. That freedom is what makes this destination ideal for girlfriends looking to reconnect.
With so much to offer, the Columbia River Gorge really is a must-see destination in Washington State. Book your girls’ weekend getaway and give yourselves a reason to pause, reconnect, and enjoy the moment.
The Best Golf Course in Central Wisconsin
Best Blackwolf Run Golf Course Getaway in Wisconsin
For golfers planning a memorable weekend escape, the Blackwolf Run Golf Course in Kohler, Wisconsin, belongs at the top of the list. Known as one of the best golf courses in Wisconsin, this championship destination attracts players from across the Midwest with its scenic riverfront setting, challenging layouts, and rich tournament history. Whether you are an avid golfer or simply looking for unique things to do in Wisconsin, a visit to Blackwolf Run offers an exceptional experience.
Designed by legendary architect Pete Dye, Blackwolf Run Golf Course winds through meadows, wooded landscapes, and the Sheboygan River Valley. Golfers can choose from the River and Meadow Valleys courses, each offering distinct challenges shaped by dramatic elevation changes, natural terrain, and strategically placed hazards. The property also features The Baths, a unique 10-hole short course inspired by classic par-three designs and complemented by an expansive putting course.
The course has hosted several significant moments in championship golf, including two U.S. Women’s Open tournaments. Visitors can walk the same fairways where Se Ri Pak claimed her historic victory in 1998 and where Na Yeon Choi earned her first major championship in 2012. Beyond the championship pedigree, Blackwolf Run offers excellent practice facilities, dining options, and scenic views that enhance the overall experience.
A Relaxing Stay at a Bed and Breakfast in Wisconsin
After a day on one of the most famous Wisconsin golf courses, retreat to Hidden Serenity B&B Getaway & Spa in nearby West Bend. Located about 45 minutes from Kohler, this secluded bed and breakfast in Wisconsin offers a peaceful alternative to larger hotels. Guests can unwind in spacious accommodations featuring luxury jetted tubs, fireplaces, and premium linens.
The property provides plenty of opportunities to relax beyond the golf course. Couples can enjoy the private spa experience, complete with a sauna, steam room, jetted hot tub, cold deluge shower, and massage services. Outdoor activities include pickleball, biking, and a private hiking trail that winds through the countryside.
Each morning begins with a homemade three-course breakfast featuring favorites such as stuffed French toast, made-to-order omelets, German pancakes, and homemade maple syrup. Whether you are planning a golf-focused vacation or a romantic getaway in Wisconsin, combining Blackwolf Run Golf Course with a stay at Hidden Serenity creates the perfect weekend retreat.
The Best Hocking Hills Hiking in Ohio
Best Hocking Hills Hiking Trails for Outdoor Lovers
Summer is the perfect time to experience Hocking Hills hiking, where towering cliffs, sandstone gorges, waterfalls, and lush forests create some of the most impressive scenery in the Midwest. Whether you are planning your first visit or returning to discover new trails, the region offers unforgettable outdoor experiences for every skill level.
One of the most unique aspects of hiking in Hocking Hills can be found directly on the 140-acre grounds of Glenlaurel. The private Camusfearna Gorge features scenic trails that wind past rock formations, waterfalls, creeks, caverns, and dramatic cliffs reaching up to 100 feet high. Guests can choose from the Camusfearna Gorge Trail, Highland Scott’s Trail, or the Thistle Bluff Walk, all located just steps from their accommodations.
Beyond the property, Hocking Hills State Park is home to many of Ohio’s most recognized natural landmarks. The Buckeye Trail, a statewide hiking route spanning more than 1,400 miles, passes through the area and connects visitors to some of the region’s most scenic destinations.
Old Man’s Cave remains one of the most popular Hocking Hills hiking trails. The Grandma Gatewood Trail links Old Man’s Cave with Cedar Falls and Ash Cave, creating an extended hiking experience filled with waterfalls, forest scenery, and impressive rock formations. Cedar Falls offers a moderate hike leading to the park’s largest waterfall by volume, while Ash Cave provides an accessible trail that leads to one of the most dramatic recessed caves in Ohio.
For hikers seeking a greater challenge, Cantwell Cliffs features steep terrain, narrow passageways, and elevated viewpoints. Conkle’s Hollow State Nature Preserve offers both an easy gorge trail and a more demanding rim trail overlooking one of Ohio’s deepest natural valleys.
Exceptional Lodging for Your Adventure Getaway
After exploring the best Hocking Hills hiking trails, return to the comfort of Glenlaurel. Private cabins and suites offer fireplaces, whirlpool tubs, and private decks designed for relaxation and ideal for romantic getaways in Ohio. Guests can also enjoy multi-course dining at Thistle and Stone, spa treatments, and scenic walks throughout the property. Combining outdoor adventure with exceptional hospitality, Glenlaurel offers an ideal setting for a summer escape. Book your stay today and discover why Hocking Hills hiking continues to rank among the best things to do in Hocking Hills.