Outdoor Adventures
Bike the Iowa Great Lakes Trail this Summer
Best Iowa Great Lakes Trail Ride in Okoboji
The Iowa Great Lakes Trail offers a well-connected way to explore Okoboji during the summer, combining scenic riding with convenient access to local stops. This growing trail system stretches roughly 40 miles, linking Milford to the Minnesota state line and connecting several of the most popular destinations in Northwest Iowa. With its paved surface and rail-to-trail design, it provides a smooth and level ride that works well for both casual cyclists and those looking to cover longer distances.
Riding the Iowa Great Lakes Trail allows couples to move easily between Arnolds Park, Okoboji, Spirit Lake, and Milford without relying on a car. Along the route, lakeside views, parks, public beaches, and local restaurants create natural stopping points throughout the day. Whether you plan a full-day ride or a shorter outing, the trail’s flexibility makes it easy to adjust your itinerary.
The Dickinson County Trail system forms a central part of this experience, offering clearly marked paths, accessible trailheads, and consistent connectivity between towns. As one of the most accessible Iowa bike trails, it continues to expand, giving returning visitors new routes to explore each season. Its design also supports walkers and runners, creating a shared outdoor space near some of the best Lakes in Iowa.
Stay at an Adults-Only Bed and Breakfast in Iowa
Choosing the right place to stay adds comfort and convenience to your trip. The Oakwood Inn, an adults-only Bed and Breakfast in Iowa, places you near the Dickinson County Trail System. Step outside, connect to the trail, and start exploring without additional travel.
Guest rooms provide a quiet and comfortable setting after a full day on the trail. Each morning begins with a freshly prepared breakfast, offering a consistent start before heading out again. Additional amenities, including secure bike storage and inviting shared spaces, support both active days and relaxed evenings.
Summer is an ideal time to experience the Iowa Great Lakes Trail! For couples looking to combine outdoor activity with convenient access to things to do in Okoboji, this trail system offers a practical and engaging way to explore the region. Book your stay and start planning your Iowa Great Lakes Trail getaway.
Bike the Lake to Lake Trail Through Kettle Moraine
Explore the Lake to Lake Trail for a Wisconsin Adventure Getaway
The Lake to Lake Trail is one of the most scenic Wisconsin bike trails, offering riders an opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the Kettle Moraine State Forest. Connecting the Mauthe Lake and Long Lake Recreation Areas, this 6.5-mile crushed limestone trail winds through forests, prairies, pine plantations, and wetlands shaped by glaciers thousands of years ago. Unlike many Rails to Trails Wisconsin routes, the Lake to Lake Bike Trail follows the landscape’s natural contours, creating a ride that feels immersive and connected to the surrounding environment.
Suitable for riders of varying skill levels, the trail features gentle terrain and modest elevation changes. Along the route, cyclists can enjoy views of the Kettle Moraine’s distinctive glacial formations, including kettles, drumlins, and kames. Picnic areas and benches provide convenient places to pause, while the swimming beaches at Mauthe Lake and Long Lake offer a refreshing way to end a ride during warmer months. The village of Dundee, located near the midpoint of the trail, provides access to convenience stores and casual dining options for those looking to extend their outing.
Stay Near the Trail at the Best Bed and Breakfast in Wisconsin
The Lake to Lake Trail is only one of many things to do near West Bend. Nearby, the Eisenbahn State Trail offers a classic rail trail experience through West Bend, while Horicon Marsh attracts birdwatchers from across the country during seasonal migrations. Visitors can also spend time exploring the Lake Michigan shoreline at Kohler-Andrae State Park, known for its impressive dunes and lakeside scenery.
After a day spent exploring bike trails in Wisconsin, return to the best bed and breakfast in Wisconsin, located just minutes from the Kettle Moraine State Forest. Situated on 24 wooded acres, this adults-only property offers thoughtfully designed guest rooms featuring king beds, fireplaces, heated bathroom floors, and peaceful forest views. Guests can also enjoy an on-site spa complete with a sauna, steam room, and massage services.
Each morning begins with a gourmet multi-course breakfast prepared with locally sourced ingredients. From fresh-baked goods and seasonal specialties to French-press coffee and house-made maple syrup, every detail is designed to enhance your stay. Whether you’re planning a dedicated cycling trip or an adventure getaway in the Midwest, this exceptional lodging experience provides the perfect home base for exploring the Lake to Lake Trail and the surrounding Kettle Moraine region. Book your stay today.
Birding Spots Along the Florida Coast Near St. Augustine
Discover Spring Birding on the Great Florida Birding Trail
Spring is prime time to explore the Great Florida Birding Trail near St. Augustine, where coastal wetlands, maritime forests, and tidal creeks create reliable habitat for both resident birds and seasonal migrants. This stretch of Florida’s coast is well-suited to an adventure-focused itinerary because you can cover multiple environments in a single day without long drives, then return to town for dinner, history, and an easy evening.
Start with Anastasia State Park, one of the top things to do in St. Augustine. This park is a productive mix of beach, tidal marsh, and maritime hammock, and a worthwhile stop on the Great Florida Birding Trail. The shoreline and salt marsh boardwalk are strong choices for wading birds, terns, skimmers, and migratory shorebirds, especially when you time your visit around lower tides. Continue south to Fort Matanzas National Monument, another fabulous stop on the Great Florida Birding Trail, where estuarine edges and wooded trails can add rails, ibises, and raptors to your list, plus a short ferry ride that makes the outing feel like part nature excursion, part local history.
For open-coast scanning, Ponte Vedra Beach offers classic surf-zone birding with shorebirds along the tide line and pelicans cruising just above the water. If you want a quieter, more secluded stop, head to Pellicer Creek Conservation Area, where freshwater wetlands and shaded hammocks support a different mix of species and a calmer pace, including productive paddling opportunities when conditions cooperate.
The GTM Reserve is another must as you travel along the Great Florida Birding Trail, with broad estuary views and mudflats that reward patience, especially during migration. Round out the day with a change of scenery at Washington Oaks Gardens State Park, where formal gardens meet a distinctive coquina shoreline, and bird activity often pairs well with spring blooms.
Stay Close to the Trail at A Downtown St. Augustine Hotel
After your time on the Great Florida Birding Trail, base your stay at St. Francis Inn, steps from historic downtown St. Augustine. Begin mornings at our St. Augustine Hotel with a gourmet buffet breakfast before heading out with binoculars and a field guide. Return for a complimentary social hour with wine, beer, and light snacks, then wind down with courtyard s’mores and evening desserts packaged for you.
With guest rooms, suites, and private cottages, plus thoughtful touches like fresh flowers and sherry in every room and a heated pool for recharging between outings, it is a practical, comfortable home base for spring birding on Florida’s coast. Book directly to plan your next adventure.
Birdwatching at the Tobico Marsh Nature Area
Best Tobico Marsh for Michigan Birdwatching
Tobico Marsh stands out as one of the best birding spots in Michigan, especially for those interested in Michigan bird migration along the Lake Huron shoreline. As one of the largest freshwater marshes on the lake, this nature preserve creates an ideal stopover for hundreds of species traveling major migratory routes. Warblers, herons, egrets, waterfowl, and raptors move through in impressive numbers, making birding in Michigan both dynamic and rewarding.
Located at the north end of Bay City State Park, Tobico Marsh blends open water, dense wetland grasses, and forest edge habitat. This diversity attracts both common migrants and sought-after species such as the ruddy duck and the yellow-headed blackbird. Elevated boardwalks allow visitors to walk deep into the wetlands while protecting sensitive habitat, and observation towers provide wide views across the lagoon and surrounding marsh. Early mornings are especially active, with bird calls echoing as mist lifts off the water.
Beyond Tobico, the Bay County Birding Trail expands the adventure. Discovery Preserve, Middlegrounds Island, Quanicassee State Wildlife Area, Pinconning County Park, and Nayanquing Point are all within easy reach. Together, they solidify this region as a leader in Michigan birdwatching. Pairing time outdoors with other things to do in Bay City, including riverfront strolls, local shops, and museums, creates a well-rounded Midwest adventure getaway.
Stay at a Historic Bed and Breakfast in Michigan
After a full day at Tobico Marsh, the Historic Webster House offers a refined place to unwind. This Bed and Breakfast in Michigan is a lovely mix of historic architecture with modern comfort. Guests appreciate the private spa room, ideal for relaxing after long walks on marsh trails. With thoughtful hospitality and a convenient location near downtown Bay City and Frankenmuth, this B&B provides one of the best places to stay in Michigan for birding enthusiasts. Reserve your room and turn your Michigan birdwatching adventure into a memorable escape.
Blue Ridge Parkways Hiking Trails
Best Hiking in North Carolina on Blue Ridge Parkway
Hiking in North Carolina offers a wide range of scenic experiences, and the Asheville area stands out for its access to the Blue Ridge Parkway and surrounding mountain trails. This region is known for its varied terrain, making it easy to plan a mountain getaway that includes both short walks and more moderate routes. Whether you are new to North Carolina hiking or looking to revisit familiar paths, there are several trails that highlight the landscape.
Along the Blue Ridge Parkway, many routes connect to the Mountains-to-Sea Trail. The Visitor Center Loop is a 1.2-mile trail with a smooth surface, making it accessible for most experience levels. For those seeking more of a challenge, the Craven Gap Trail extends 2.5 miles and includes moderate terrain with natural obstacles. The Bull Gap Trail, at 2.6 miles, is another option that offers a slightly more demanding hike while still remaining manageable for a half-day outing.
Beyond the Parkway, hikers can explore areas known for panoramic views. Craggy Gardens offers a short, accessible hike that leads to wide-ranging vistas, making it a practical choice for families or those with limited time. Max Patch is another well-known destination, recognized for its open summit and unobstructed mountain views. Its unique vegetation creates a distinct environment compared to forested trails.
For a different perspective, the Asheville Urban Trail provides a walking route through downtown, highlighting cultural landmarks and local history. This marked path includes multiple stops and can be completed in about two hours.
With a stunning scenery and accessible trails, hiking in North Carolina near Asheville is an essential part of a mountain getaway.
Lodging in the North Carolina Mountains
If you are planning a mountain stay, choosing accommodations with proximity to these trails makes everything easier. A Bed and Breakfast in the North Carolina mountains provides access to nearby hiking while offering mountain views from guest rooms and shared spaces. The Orchard Inn also offers private cottages for extra privacy and relaxation after a day outdoors. Morning meals often include locally inspired breakfasts served with views of the surrounding landscape perfect for unforgettable mountain getaways near Ashville.
Book Your Tour with UnCruise Adventures
Best UnCruise Adventures for Getaway to Alaska
Those looking to experience Alaska beyond the typical cruise route will find that UnCruise Adventures offers a refreshingly hands-on way to explore the Last Frontier. Specializing in small ship cruises, UnCruise Adventures operates itineraries designed to bring guests closer to Alaska’s dramatic landscapes, wildlife-filled waterways, and lesser-visited coastal areas. Many sailings operate round-trip from Juneau, making it easy to combine time on the water with time exploring Alaska’s capital city.
Unlike large Alaska cruise lines, UnCruise Adventures uses small boat cruises that carry a limited number of guests. This allows for flexible routing, daily adventure-focused excursions, and spontaneous wildlife viewing opportunities. One day might include kayaking near tidewater glaciers, followed by guided hikes through Tongass National Forest or skiff rides through protected coves. With expert guides and onboard naturalists, guests gain a deeper understanding of Alaska’s ecosystems.
Life onboard an UnCruise Alaska vessel is relaxed and social. Ships typically feature between 18 and 42 cabins, creating an atmosphere where guests quickly feel connected to fellow travelers and crew. Daily briefings outline upcoming Alaska excursions, allowing guests to choose activities that match their interests and energy levels. Meals are included and focus on fresh, regional flavors, adding value to what many consider affordable small ship cruises.
Where to Stay Before or After Your UnCruise Adventure
Spending time in Juneau before or after your sailing enhances the experience. Alaska Capital Inn, one of the most welcoming small hotels in Juneau, offers a comfortable home base with knowledgeable local innkeepers. Staying here provides helpful insight into things to do in Juneau, assistance with tour bookings, and easy logistics around cruise departures. Guests enjoy cozy rooms, a family-style breakfast, and social hours that make settling into Alaska feel effortless.
Popular itineraries with UnCruise Adventures include wildlife-focused Glacier Bay sailings, adventure-driven Alaska excursions, and adults-only options ideal for couples seeking a more immersive experience. If your goal is an adventure getaway that prioritizes exploration over entertainment, UnCruise Adventures delivers a truly engaging way to see Alaska.
Breathtaking Adventure in Gifford Pinchot Forest
Best Guler Ice Caves Summer Adventure in Washington
The Guler Ice Caves offer one of the most unusual summer adventures in Washington State. Hidden within the Gifford Pinchot National Forest near Mount Adams, these lava tube caves feature dramatic ice formations that shift throughout the year, making every visit slightly different from the last. For those exploring the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, the caves provide a completely different perspective on the Pacific Northwest landscape, one shaped by volcanic activity, underground chambers, and year-round ice.
The caves formed thousands of years ago when lava flows created underground tunnels beneath the forest floor. As the molten rock cooled and drained away, hollow tubes remained behind. Today, visitors can descend into one of the few publicly accessible lava tube caves in the region and experience naturally formed ice stalactites, frozen walls, and crystal-like formations that remain cool even during the height of summer. The caves are typically at their best from April through early summer, when snowmelt continues to feed the frozen formations inside.
Before visiting the Guler Ice Caves, bring waterproof boots, warm layers, and a flashlight with spare batteries. Conditions inside remain cold year-round, and the cave floor can be slippery. Checking Northwest Forest Pass requirements ahead of time is also recommended before heading into the forest.
The Guler Ice Caves are especially popular for travelers searching for unique things to do in Columbia River Gorge destinations beyond waterfalls and scenic overlooks. Pairing a cave visit with nearby Columbia Gorge hikes, wine tasting, or sightseeing around Hood River and White Salmon creates a well-rounded Pacific Northwest getaway.
For visitors seeking a memorable summer adventure in the Pacific Northwest, the Guler Ice Caves offer geology, hiking, and unforgettable scenery in one remarkable destination.
Cabins in Washington State Near the Columbia River Gorge
After exploring the caves, returning to comfortable cabins in Washington State makes the experience even better. Carson Ridge Luxury Cabins offers a quiet retreat surrounded by evergreen forest and landscaped gardens in the heart of the Gorge. Guests can relax in private cabins with fireplaces, jetted tubs for two, breakfast delivery, and mountain-inspired interiors designed for restorative weekend stays.
The property also provides convenient access to some of the best hikes Columbia River Gorge travelers seek out, including trails near Mount Adams and scenic routes throughout the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. Travelers planning dog-friendly weekend getaways in Washington will also appreciate the opportunity to bring their pets along while still enjoying elevated accommodations.
Chase Waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge This Spring
Best Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls for Adventure
Few day trips deliver drama like the Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls, where cliffside cascades, mossy canyons, and misty viewpoints appear one after another. If you want an adventure that mixes iconic stops with satisfying trail time, the Gorge is the kind of place that rewards both early starts and curious detours, all within easy reach of Portland.
Start with Multnomah Falls, the headline act for a reason. The two-tier drop is massive, the views are immediate, and the walk to Benson Bridge gives you that cool spray and wide-angle photo moment. For a more immersive route, build your day around the Multnomah area trail network, where forest paths connect viewpoints and smaller cascades.
Next, add Wahkeena Falls for a different texture of water; it doesn’t just plunge, it tumbles and fans through lush rock and greenery. It’s a favorite for hikers who want a bit more quiet without giving up that classic Gorge atmosphere. Keep your momentum going with a stop at Latourell Falls, a striking single-drop waterfall framed by basalt columns and vivid lichen, with both an easy lower viewpoint and a loop trail for more exploring.
Where to Stay After Your Waterfall Day
For a Washington-side escape, Panther Creek Falls is a standout, especially if you want big payoff with minimal effort. The short trail brings you to a powerful, multi-tier cascade, making it one of the easiest ways to add a “hidden gem” moment to your itinerary. If you have time for a longer outing, Falls Creek Falls turns the day into a true adventure, with a moderate loop, steady forest scenery, and a memorable suspension bridge before the final viewpoint.
Round out your itinerary with Lower Lewis Falls, an impressive, wide cascade that feels bold and raw, with an easy approach that makes it simple to fit into a full weekend of exploring. Beyond the waterfalls, there are plenty of things to do in the Columbia River Gorge, including scenic hikes, viewpoints, wineries, and restaurants. Make it more than a day trip, pair your waterfall chase with a cozy cabin stay at Carson Ridge Cabins, the leading cabins in the Columbia River Gorge.
Chasing Waterfalls at Triple Falls in Western North Carolina
Triple Falls North Carolina Hike for Adventure
Triple Falls is one of the signature stops in Dupont State Recreational Forest, and it rewards anyone willing to put a little effort into the climb. In fact, this waterfall-rich park is one of the top things to do in Western North Carolina. From Saluda, Triple Falls is an easy day trip that pairs well with small-town time on Main Street, then a focused outing in the woods where the sound of rushing water does the talking. If you are planning an adventure getaway in the mountains, Triple Falls North Carolina belongs at the top of your list.
Most visitors begin at the High Falls Access Area, where the Triple Falls Trail leads into a hardwood forest and gradually gains elevation. Routes vary, but the walk to the viewing area is typically a little over a mile round trip, and the final approach includes stairs to an overlook. Once you reach the falls, you will see why Triple Falls NC is so frequently photographed. The water drops in three tiers across a broad rock face, and the viewpoints give you options for different angles and compositions. Bring a snack, take your time, and plan to linger.
Because Triple Falls sits within a network of well-known cascades, it is easy to build a fuller day of waterfalls in North Carolina without adding extra driving. High Falls is close by and makes a natural pairing, with a wider trail and a powerful span of water across the Little River. Hooker Falls is one of the most accessible stops in Dupont forest, with a short, mostly flat walk and calmer sections where swimming and wading are allowed.
A Boutique Hotel Near Dupont State Recreational Forest
After a day on the trails, return to Saluda for a comfortable base that supports both activity and recovery. When you stay at our boutique hotel in Western North Carolina, you can choose from well-appointed rooms, spacious suites, and private cottages, with gas fireplaces in every suite and cottage. Many accommodations also include jetted tubs, which are a welcome addition after hiking in North Carolina. On-site amenities like a spa and sauna make it easy to reset before dinner.
If you want to extend the adventure, consider adding Bridal Veil Falls, Grassy Creek Falls, or Wintergreen Falls to your plan, depending on your time and hiking comfort. With Triple Falls Trail as the centerpiece and additional Asheville hikes within reach, Saluda keeps your itinerary flexible, focused, and satisfying.