Looking for thrills? You don’t have to go far. These adventure travel destinations are right here in the US and are sure to get your heart racing.
Rafting the grand canyon
The Colorado River, which runs through the Grand Canyon, is a beautiful sight to behold, but instead of just looking at it, why not experience it? Grand Canyon raft tours range from a few hours to a few weeks, and are sure to get your blood pumping. Take a trip in a motorized or oar-powered raft with friends and family. Navigate one of the most majestic spots our country has to offer while putting yourself to the ultimate physical test. If you’re looking for the adventure but not the hard work, book a tour where the guide does all the work so you can sit back and relax. Most tours run April through October, but off-season tours are available.
Alaskan sled dog tour
They still travel by sled dog in Alaska, and you can, too. Various tours allow you to mush the team yourself or just go along for the ride, but either way it’s an experience you won’t get anywhere else. Tours last several days and include tent camping, an adventure all its own when temperatures hover below 20 degrees in April. You’ll get a chance to bond with the hard-working pups, and will likely be ready to take one home by the end of the trip.
Denali National Park, Alaska >>
Hawaiian helicopter ride
The Big Island of Hawaii has seven climate zones, and you can see them all with a helicopter ride. Get up close to a waterfall, or look straight down into Kilauea, an active volcano. If you’re really daring, take a ride on a no-doors helicopter and feel the volcano’s heat first-hand. Some tours even allow you to land in secluded spots on the island, giving you a glimpse of Hawaii you’d never see on your own. Most helicopter tours accommodate 4-8 people.
xtreme zipline
Ever wonder what it feels like to fly? Sail through the air on the XTREME Zipline at Utah Olympic Park, a venue where competitions were held during the 2002 Olympic Winter games. Strap yourself in and hold on tight – this is the steepest zipline in the US, with a 435-foot drop. They offer a smaller version if you’re not a fan of heights, and second rides for both are half-price. That’s a great bonus, because one time just won’t be enough of the thrill you’ll get from this experience. Once you’ve had your fill of flying, tour the facility and take advantage of other sporting-related activities they offer all year long.
Explore the San Juan Islands
Explore the San Juan Islands, located just off the coast of Washington, on two wheels. Take a bike tour from one side of the island to the other, or take a smaller jaunt if you wish. Group tours range from 2-6 days, or go solo and find your own way. Stop at quaint inns overnight, and spend your days sightseeing on this beautiful landscape. Be sure to spend time whale watching – they’re hard to miss in this location.
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