Outdoor Experiences
Retreats
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Outdoor Experiences
Retreats
Weddings
It’s a big world out there, with an innumerable number of adventures to be had. Yet, you may consider starting with the countless breathtaking experiences close to home, particularly those found in America’s national parks. From hikes into volcanic craters to watching the sunrise on the highest point on the eastern seaboard of the U.S., these adventures will leave you in awe of the natural beauty found right in your backyard. Continue reading to learn of a handful of can’t-miss bucket list travel adventures found in some of the United States’ most beloved national parks, as well as where to stay nearby.
The northeastern region of the United States is home to countless ultimate bucket list adventures, but few can compete with Acadia National Park. Located on the picturesque Mount Desert Island near Bar Harbor, this 47,000-acre national park flourishes with wildlife, stunning landscapes, cobbled streets, and incredible hikes. So, if you’re looking for epic adventures, Acadia should be your first stop.
Cadillac Mountain—the crown jewel of Acadia. This towering pink granite peak attracts visitors from all over for its spectacular views of the glaciated coast and island-spotted horizon. In fact, Cadillac Mountain is the highest point on the eastern seaboard of the U.S., meaning it’s the first place to watch a magnificent sunrise over the Atlantic Ocean. As the homeland of the Wabanaki people, this land has a rich cultural history, and paired with lush forests and rocky coastline, the sights aren’t too shabby either. You can access the peak of Cadillac Mountain through Cadillac Summit Road, located off of Park Loop Road. The winding, paved trail is 3.5 miles long, but the views are well worth the effort.
What’s more, if seeing the Northern Lights is part of your bucket list travel adventures, Acadia won’t disappoint. It’s quite common to spot the aurora (depending on light pollution and season) at nighttime on Cadillac Mountain. So, consider a night of stargazing, and keep your eyes peeled for the dancing colors!
If you’re looking for an experience to get your heart racing, head to Acadia’s Thunder Hole. This year-round attraction is a natural rock inlet, carved out by years of waves hammering into the rocky shoreline. During high tide, the waves slam into the ocean cliffs, creating a thunderous boom and echo, and spraying sea foam over 40 feet into the air. How’s that for a thrill? Be sure to arrive an hour or two before high tide for the best chance at hearing the daunting reverberations. You’ll also find a staircase leading down to a lower level. Here, you can get a look at the cliff wall during low tide.
Though more leisurely than other bucket list travel adventures, a whale watching tour is an adventure nonetheless. And what better place to embark on such a voyage than New England? The waters around Acadia are a stunning natural habitat for large baleen whales, including humpback, minke, and finback whales, as well as seals, puffins, and dolphins. With a whale watching tour off the Gulf of Maine, you can witness slapping tails, breaching whales, and playful dolphins as they speed through the wake.
Tour companies like Bar Harbor Whale Watch Co. take travelers on an exciting expedition off the coast. These knowledgeable guides educate guests on the natural and cultural history of the area while in search of marine life. These tours are incredible adventures for the whole family, and you’ll certainly want to add them to your bucket list. Check out other things to do in Bar Harbor here!
Breathe in nature at Terramor Outdoor Resort, nestled right off the beaten path in charming Bar Harbor. This Acadia glamping resort is more than just a place to rest your head after a day of adventure. Here, you’ll find amenities and activities that immerse you in the beauty of the landscape. Spend time collecting honey at the bee apiary, or sip on a cup of steaming espresso on the lodge deck. Need some sun? Lay out by the pool, and in the evening, enjoy a signature cocktail from the Kitchen by the fire.
As for accommodations, choose from five dreamy tents, each sleeping two to five guests. These luxury tents feature all the comforts of home, including electricity and wifi, private bathrooms, king beds, and more. What better way to hit the hay on your bucket list travel adventures?
Hawaii’s Volcanoes National Park may just be one of the most surreal landscapes in the country. With rushing waterfalls, ancient lava fields, and lush rainforests, amazing experiences are plentiful for the curious traveler. So, explore some of our favorite bucket list travel adventures on Hawaii’s Big Island below.
Take your average day hike to the next thrilling level with a once-in-a-lifetime journey to the bottom of Kilauea Iki Crater. Back in 1959, this vent, located beneath the Pu’upua’i Cinder Cone, erupted to heights of 1,900 feet, leaving a solidified lava lake in its wake. Today, explorers can descend the steep, rocky path to the crater floor (400 feet), passing through flourishing rainforests and chittering wildlife.
This hike is considered moderate to challenging, so be sure to pack/dress accordingly. Many make the 3.3-mile hike from the Kilauea Iki Overlook. With this trail, you can add a trip through the Nahuku lava tube to the journey. If you want a longer hike with more scenic sights, start from the Kilauea Visitor Center, taking the Crater Rim Trail (5.3 miles). Or, you can start from the Devastation Trailhead (6 miles).
Traveling solo? We have the perfect additions to your itinerary.
Ever thought of adding a live volcanic eruption to your bucket list travel adventures? Well, you can! Both the Kilauea and Halema’uma Craters are in a state of ongoing eruption. When active, travelers can witness lava fountains, flowing lava, and an intense glow, especially at night. However, these periods of activity are episodic. They only last a few hours, and then pause for a few days after each eruption. So, be sure to stay updated on the current conditions of the craters before making the drive. To view the eruptions, you can stop at a handful of overlooks on the famous Crater Rim Drive. You may also find parking at the Welcome Center, Kilauea Overlook, and Uekahuna.
If you’re traveling to the Big Island, seeking out one of the many breathtaking waterfalls is a must. Yet, we recommend making the trek to Hi’ilawe Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in all of the Hawaiian Islands. Cascading over 1,400 feet, this falls descends gracefully into the emerald green Waipi’o Valley below. The falls can be accessed by parking at the Waipi’o Valley Lookout, then hiking down the narrow paved road.
However, for the most magical experience, we suggest booking a horseback riding tour, which takes you through more scenic paths on private property to the waterfall. Na’alapa Stables is a popular choice among travelers, taking them on a stunning exploration of the entire Waipi’o Valley. Though this waterfall is not actually within the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, it’s a can’t-miss experience you’ll want to add to your bucket list travel adventures, and certainly one of the best Big Island hikes.
Originally built in the 1970s, the urban-chic Pacific 19 has recently been renovated and refurbished into the stylish island boutique hotel it is today. Start your day with a steaming coffee at the on-site cafe, soak up the sun by the pool, or catch up on work in the cozy lobby lounge. Moreover, rooms at Pacific 19 have everything you need (and nothing you don’t). Get comfortable with king and double beds, flat-screen TVs, a macro bar, and a private balcony.
Not to mention, Pacific 19 offers curated island experiences created by locals. This way, you can experience the Big Island the way it was meant to be. Go on a manta ray night snorkel, scuba dive in emerald waters, or watch as baby turtles make their way to the sea. Whatever you choose, these additional bucket list travel adventures are sure to enhance your Hawaiian getaway.
There’s something for every kind of explorer in Grand Teton National Park. From the majestic Cathedral Group of peaks to the sparkling lakes and winding rivers, there are bucket list travel adventures at every turn. Check out some experiences to add to your legendary itinerary at Grand Teton National Park below.
Thousands of travelers flock to Grand Teton National Park every year to see the diverse wildlife that calls this landscape home. From towering moose to hulking grizzly bears and bison, the fauna is just as magnificent as the mountains that block the horizon. This said, it can feel daunting to observe these animals on your own. Instead, opt for one of the many Grand Teton wildlife safaris!
These tours are led by professional guides who know the best places to spot wildlife, including elk, wolves, eagles, and bears, and know how to keep you safe. These tours are also a great way to learn about the landscape’s ecology and history, as you travel through some of the park’s most magnificent natural features. So, if you want to come face to face with some of the West’s most beautiful creatures, add a wildlife tour to your bucket list travel adventures in Grand Teton.
To visit Grand Teton National Park without venturing out on a hike would be a shame. Yet, there’s one hike you definitely won’t want to miss (and you won’t soon forget): the Delta Lake Trail. This is one of the most popular hikes in the national park, and it’s clear why. Although it’s 7.4 miles in length, this trail ends at Delta Lake, renowned for its vibrant, turquoise-blue hue. This lake is nestled right beneath the Grand Teton and the Teton Glacier, making for a jaw-dropping background as you go for a dip in Delta Lake. However, the trail to Delta Lake is little more than a footpath, and it requires a good sense of direction. Still, if you’re looking for adventure, the Delta Lake Trail doesn’t disappoint.
Want to see the sights without all the work? If you’re looking for peaceful bucket list travel adventures in Grand Teton National Park, this is for you. Snake River is made of melted snow from the peaks of the Tetons. It winds along the valley floor and toward the Pacific, and though it’s arguably one of the most scenic routes to follow through the Tetons, the river is mighty and requires a knowledgeable guide. So, consider a rafting trip! This isn’t whitewater rafting, and there’s no huge adrenaline rush. Instead, you get to sit back and admire the magnificence of the landscape, from the roaming wildlife to the mountain peaks in the clouds. One thing’s for sure: floating the Snake River is an unforgettable experience. So, consider choosing the Snake River for your next adventure in the Tetons.
After so much time spent in the park, you’ll be happy to fall into bed at the Alpine House. This boutique outdoor hotel is just a stroll from downtown and maintains the charming, rustic integrity of a Jackson Hole retreat. Aside from being your gateway to the great outdoors, Alpine House features luxurious rooms and suites equipped with king and queen beds, heated floors, walk-in showers, and balconies for taking in the mountain scenery. Moreover, the hotel’s restaurant, Glorietta Trattoria, is just a quick walk down the road and is ideal for an evening glass of wine and a delicious meal. Not to mention, many of Jackson Hole’s best restaurants are nearby, as well. What more could you ask for?
So, are you ready for your next adventure? Checking experiences off your bucket list is easy with Nook Outdoors. Our boutique hotels, glamping resorts, and cabin rentals are near some of the most awesome adventures in the United States. Whether you prefer wine tasting in Texas Hill Country, Christmas markets in Stowe, or whitewater rafting in the Great Smoky Mountains, we have the perfect boutique retreat for you. Browse our entire inspiring list of resorts in epic spots below, and start adding to your list of bucket list travel adventures today!
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