
Seeing marine life can be a life-changing experience. Getty
The Complete Guide to Adventure Travel
From the best hiking trails to how to get scuba certified.
The Latest
Where Should You Go on Vacation Next?
Take our travel quiz to find your perfect trip.
By CNT Editors
Water activities
- AdventureWhy I Keep Returning to Michigan’s Leelanau PeninsulaThe destination is a vital backdrop for my family’s story.
- AdventureHow to Get Scuba Certified for Your Next VacationExpert tips on trying out the sport, differing certifications, and where to get yours.
By Tyler Moss and Shannon McMahon
- AdventureA Look Back at Waikiki's Surf History—and Why It's Still the Best Place to Learn the SportWith the sport debuting at this year’s Olympics, a visit to the birthplace of modern surfing has never felt more timely.
- AdventureHow to Responsibly Interact with Marine LifeWhat to keep in mind when you’re booking tours or planning other activities that involve marine life.
- AdventureThe Best Kayaking Gear to Bring on Summer Outings, from Dry Bags to Water ShoesGet out on the water this summer—and keep your gear safe.
- Adventure5 Trips to Plan Around America’s Great LakesPicturesque—and action-packed—weekend getaways on each of the Big Five.
- AdventureThe Best Scuba Diving Sites, From Mexican Cenotes to Egyptian ReefsFor first-timers, experts, and everyone in between.
By Tyler Moss and Shannon McMahon
- Adventure8 Stunning U.S. Swimming Holes to Cool off in This SummerNatural oases from New York to California that are just begging you to dive in.
- Adventure8 Waterfalls in the U.S. Worth Traveling ForFrom New York to Alaska, these cascades deserve a detour.
- AdventureExploring Another Side of the Mississippi Along the Great River RoadThere is much more to the mighty river than what they teach in school.
Camping
Shopping
How to Plan a Seamless Family Camping Trip
Step-by-step guidance on finding a campsite during high season, easy and delicious meal ideas, and games that'll turn your kids into lifelong campers.
Places to Stay
8 Glamping Sites to Upgrade Your Next National Park Visit
Sleep under the stars, without having to actually sleep on the ground.
Ski and snow
- AdventureThe Best Ski Resorts in the U.S. and Canada: 2020 Readers' Choice AwardsFrom Maine to British Columbia.
By Jen Murphy
- AdventureThe Most Beautiful Places in Iceland, from Ice Caves to Steaming GeysersPlus volcanoes, countryside vistas, and waterfalls for days.
- AdventureHow to Safely Try Backcountry SkiingA growing number of skiers are skipping the resorts, and heading for the backcountry. Here's everything you should know before giving it a try.
By Josh Laskin
- AdventureInstead of Hot Tubs, Skiers Are Turning to Cryotherapy for Après-Ski FunSerious skiers say fighting the cold with more cold actually works.
By Todd Plummer
- AdventureThe Best Ski Resorts in Europe: 2020 Readers' Choice AwardsThe places inspiring your return to travel, from remote mountain towns to aprés hotspots.
By Jen Murphy
- AdventureChasing Winter in Lapland, FinlandBack before climate change, all a snow-lover had to do was stay home and eagerly await cold weather. Now she has to venture out and seek it.
By Kate Bolick
Hiking and climbing
Adventure
When the Navajo Nation Reopens, Visitors Must Return Slowly—And Respectfully
Writer Pauly Denetclaw hopes visitors will arrive at the Navajo Nation with a new perspective.
National Parks
The Best State Park in Every Single State
With ancient redwoods, bison, and red sandstone rock formations, they're just as impressive as America's national parks.
National Parks
How to Plan Your First Backpacking Trip
You don’t need to be a pro to hit the trail; you just need to be prepared.
By Josh Laskin
Adventure
The Best Hikes in the U.S.
Where to get out in the wilderness, from Alaska to Maine.
By Tyler Moss
National Parks
Via Ferratas Offer an Entry Into Rock Climbing—Here's Where to Find Them in the U.S.
Meaning “iron path” in Italian, this protected style of rock climbing makes mountaineering approachable for beginners.
By Sarah Kuta
Adventure
For Under-the-Radar Vineyards and Hiking Trails, Head to Colorado's Western Slope
The region is filled with red rock trails, desert vistas, and rolling vineyards.
Essential gear
- AdventureThe Best Kayaking Gear to Bring on Summer Outings, from Dry Bags to Water ShoesGet out on the water this summer—and keep your gear safe.
- AdventureCar Camping Essentials: Where to Stay, What to Pack, and How to Organize Your GearTransform your car into the ultimate off-grid camping companion.
- ShoppingThe Best Hiking Backpacks for Women, According to Avid AdventurersA comfortable pack means a more enjoyable day on the trails.
By Madison Flager and Kristi Kellogg
- ShoppingAll the Outdoor Gear I Bought This SpringOur West Coast editor shares her favorite purchases, from hiking boots to a surfboard.
- Shopping8 Hiking Essentials for a Day on the TrailsFrom a straw that filters water to cozy socks that keep your feet dry.
- AdventureThe Best Outdoor Gear for Winter Hikes and Bike RidesLong days outdoors mean it's time to layer up.
- Shopping12 Outdoor Brands Every Traveler Should Know AboutWe asked outdoor enthusiasts for the under-the-radar brands they swear by.
Destinations
Where to Eat, Stay, and Play in Aspen, Colorado
One of the dreamiest winter escapes—whether you're an adrenaline skiier and concertgoer, or more of a bunny-slope and shopping enthusiast.
By Sarah Kuta
Ski & Snow
An International Guide to the World of Aprés-Ski
Whether you're looking for Champagne showers in Austria or sticky-floored dives in Montana, we've got the rundown of where to go (and what to drink).
By Todd Plummer
Inspiration
21 European Cities That Are Even Better in Winter
Summer temps can’t compete with mulled wine and snow-dusted canal houses.
Islands & Beaches
The 24 Best Beaches in the U.S.
All the surf and soft sand you could ask for—no passport required.
By Caitlin Morton and Paul Rubio
National Parks
10 National Parks to Visit During Wildflower Season
These parks are home to the country's most vivid blooms from late March through August.
Inspiration
5 Canadian Adventures to Plan Right Now
With border reopened, these are the trips to suit every type of traveler.
News & Advice
What It’s Like to Climb a Rocky Mountain Via Ferrata
Via ferratas have helped amateur hikers tackle the Alps for decades. Now, they are catching on stateside.
By Noah Kaufman
Shopping
6 Expert-Recommended Bug Sprays That Actually Work
Whether you're camping, hiking, or just hanging out at a nearby park.
By Iona Brannon
News & Advice
How an Indigenous-Owned Adventure Company Is Bringing Bike Tourism to the Navajo Nation
Dzil Ta’ah Adventures' cycling tours pair desert landscapes with Navajo creation stories—and all tour revenue is reinvested into Navajo communities.
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