|
Rent a Houseboat
If you would like to take a cruise, but feel that crowds are not your idea of an easy, fun vacation, consider renting a houseboat. Three- to seven-day houseboat rentals are quickly becoming a popular option for families or groups of friends looking for that unique getaway. Hop aboard, cruise a while, then drop a line overboard to catch dinner, watch birds and shoreline wildlife, or just dreamily laze on the water. In California, use snow-capped Mt. Shasta as a navigational bearing to wander into hundreds of quiet coves on Shasta Lake. The upper Mississippi River offers rolling green bluffs lining the shores and sandy island beaches between La Crosse, Wisconsin, and Red Wing, Minnesota. Wildlife is the allure on Florida’s longest river, St. John’s. You and your cruising companions are more than likely to see alligators, turtles, birds, and threatened manatees. Finally, the self-proclaimed “Houseboating Capital of the World,” Lake Cumberland, Kentucky, offers 1,255 miles (2,019 km) of shoreline surrounded by lush green hills.
Scuba Diving the Florida Keys
Not too many travelers think of the mainland U.S. when planning scuba diving trips. But the Florida Keys offers the 107-mile Overseas Highway as access to a variety of great dive locations. Sample the famous lobster reuben sandwich at the Keys Fisheries Market in Marathon.
Canoeing Minnesota
If you enjoy canoeing wilderness waterways, a venture to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area in northern Minnesota is a must. Comprised of thousands of lakes, this wilderness area illuminates with nature, evoking clarity of the senses. One of the many outfitters based in Ely, Minnesota can start you on your adventure.
Cross-country Skiing U.S.A.
Click for feature story
Fly Fishing in Montana
Those passionate about fly fishing should experience the allure of the Gallatin River in Montana. The book A River Runs Through It takes place on this premier river and in the surrounding area. The Gallatin Gateway Inn situated just outside of Bozeman would be a great place to settle in the evenings and write about your own fly fishing adventures.
Ice Climbing in Colorado
Ice climbing is not just another intense sport, but rather more of a Zen experience. The Ice Park in Ouray, Colorado, is a mystical draw for young and old from around the world. Compliment your day on the ice by relaxing at Orvis Hot Springs which is a short drive through the canyon towards Ridgway.
Cooking Schools Across the U.S.A.
Click for feature story
|
Paragliding in Aspen, Colorado
Running off the edge of a mountain of your own free-will can be stomach churning the first time, but it’s an exhilarating yet soothing adventure. Picture the inspiring peaks and landscape of Aspen, Colorado, then imagine soaring high above in the skies floating down behind a red tail hawk’s flight. Pure heaven.
Whitewater Rafting in Wyoming
Whether you are looking for a scenic float trip or real whitewater adventure, rafting the down the Snake River in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, will be a lifetime remembrance. With the dynamic snowcapped Teton range as a back-curtain scene, you might glimpse a bald eagle snatching dinner. For a raft-less watering hole and dinner try the Koshu Wine Bar, where the best selection of “wines by the glass” are poured.
Whitewater Rafting Across the U.S.A.
Click for feature story
Skiing Colorado
Click for feature story
Bird Watching in Vermont
Springtime in Vermont announces the delightful return home of our fine feathered friends. The Mad River Valley area is home to a pristine landscape welcoming migrations of hundreds of species. Combine your birding with guided walks and in-depth presentations exploring the wonders of bird habitats and journeys. The Green Mountain Audubon Center in Huntington offers five miles of birding trails, a butterfly garden, and a sensory trail.
America's National Bird - The Bald Eagle
Bike Touring Vermont
Click for feature story
Mountain Biking Fruita, Colorado
Moab is known as the Mecca of mountain biking, and Crested Butte as its creator, yet Fruita, Colorado, is fast becoming known as the jewel of mountain biking spots. From rolling hills to massive uplifts, your choice of trails is astonishing. Take a break from the dirt to do a road ride through the Colorado National Monument and the Palisade vineyards. Stop first in the Velo Junction bike shop, locally owned by cycling enthusiasts.
Golf & Music in Austin, Texas
Austin, the capital of Texas, is known for its eclectic music scene – from jazz to country – and an array of dining establishments. But its best-kept secret is the Hill Country west of the city limits. A golfing day on one of three Jack Nicholas courses in the Lakeway area could be the beginning of your explorations of this magnificent landscape.
|
