Highlights include Coamo Hot Springs, Cayo Enrique, Caja de Muertos, and the La Parguera Bioluminescent Bay

If you’re searching for the best things to do in south Puerto Rico, this region centers around the coastal towns of La Parguera, Lajas, Ponce, and Santa Isabel. Here you can kayak through the La Parguera Bioluminescent Bay, snorkel the reefs around Cayo Enrique, Caja de Muertos, or the waters off Santa Isabel, and take a boat out to Caja de Muertos Island to hike to the lighthouse and swim along the coast. You can also explore the historic streets of Ponce or stop by the Coamo Hot Springs after a day outside. This stretch of coastline is known for its shallow mangrove cays and calm Caribbean water, ideal for kayaking, snorkeling, and exploring the islands just off the shore.

Why Visit South Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico’s south side is sun-soaked, relaxed, and radiates classic Caribbean calm — a totally different vibe from the island’s rainforest-dense north and east. This region stretches across La Parguera, Lajas, Ponce, and Santa Isabel, featuring hidden gems like the natural Coamo Hot Springs, mangrove-studded islands such as Cayo Enrique, and the postcard-perfect nature reserve of Caja de Muertos. The south is all about laid-back coastal towns, glassy turquoise waters, and some of the most breathtaking sunsets on the island. Here, desert-like landscapes of cactus and salt flats meet open skies, mangrove channels, and small fishing villages, creating a scenery that’s equal parts raw Caribbean and tropical paradise.

In this guide to south Puerto Rico, we’ll help you plan your adventures across this sunny, Caribbean-facing side of the island. With warm, clear water, laid-back fishing towns, and easy access to small offshore cays and marine reserves, the south is perfect for travelers looking for ocean-focused adventures without the crowds. It’s slower paced, sun-soaked, and one of the best regions in Puerto Rico for kayaking, snorkeling, and exploring the island’s calmer Caribbean waters.

Best Time to Visit South Puerto Rico

You can visit Puerto Rico’s south coast year-round, though the seasons bring small shifts in conditions. December through August tends to be the best stretch for calm Caribbean water – prime time for snorkeling, kayaking the mangrove cays around La Parguera, and boating out to islands like Cayo Enrique or Caja de Muertos. September through November overlaps with hurricane season, so tours still run but schedules can shift depending on weather and sea conditions. The south is one of the driest and sunniest parts of the island, with temperatures often in the mid-80s to low-90s°F (~29–33°C) and plenty of clear days for getting out on the water. Tours operate year-round, but ocean conditions can still affect snorkeling, paddling, and boat trips, so it’s always a good idea to check with local outfitters before heading out.

Getting to the South Coast of Puerto Rico

Most flights land in San Juan, and getting from San Juan to Puerto Rico’s south coast takes about 1.5 to 2 hours by car depending on whether you’re heading to Ponce, La Parguera, or Santa Isabel. Renting a car is the best option if you want the flexibility to explore coastal towns, visit the Coamo Hot Springs, or hop between snorkeling spots and boat launches to islands like Caja de Muertos. The drive crosses Puerto Rico’s central mountains before opening into the island’s drier southern landscape, with views of cactus-covered hills, salt flats, and the Caribbean Sea. Public transportation is limited in this region, so having your own vehicle makes it much easier to link up snorkeling trips, kayak tours, and island excursions without rushing.

Alternatively, taking a private shuttle from San Juan to Ponce or La Parguera can be a simple, stress-free option that lets you skip the drive and arrive ready to get out on the water.

La Parguera – Puerto Rico’s Bio Bay & Mangrove Playground

La Parguera is a small seaside village on Puerto Rico’s southwest coast where life revolves around the water. It’s best known for its bioluminescent bay — the only one on the island where you can actually swim in the glow — but the town is also the launching point for exploring mangrove cays, shallow reefs, and calm Caribbean water by kayak, boat, or paddleboard. Colorful boats line the waterfront, fishing culture still runs strong, and most days here end the same way: out on the water chasing sunset before heading back to the docks as the bio bay begins to glow.

La Parguera Snorkeling

La Parguera is a small fishing village in south Puerto Rico, and the heart of Puerto Rico’s southern marine adventures. While fishing culture still runs strong, today it’s just as well known for snorkeling trips that head out to the mangrove cays and shallow fish nurseries surrounding the coast. It’s home to mangrove channels, offshore cays like Cayo Enrique, and one of Puerto Rico’s three bioluminescent bays — the only one you can swim in. Shallow sandy bottoms, seagrass meadows, and coral reefs make snorkeling here a marine playground. Sunset snorkeling followed by a glowing bioluminescent bay swim is a must-do here.

Our Picks for La Parguera Snorkeling Adventures

• Island Hopping Kayak & Snorkel Tour: Explore the mangrove canals to the shores of the La Parguera Kays where you kayak and snorkel to your hearts content!
• Mangrove, Seagrass, & Local Reef Snorkeling Tour: Explore La Parguera’s ecosystems with a marine biologist, spotting manatees, dolphins, rays, and turtles.
• Private Island – Cayo Enrique SUP, Kayak & Snorkel: A short boat ride to the island gives you freedom to paddle over seagrass meadows and snorkel with pufferfish, rays, and sea turtles.
• Private Snorkeling Charter: Visit the hidden San Cristobal Key reef with snappers, barracudas, triggerfish, and parrotfish.
• Private Snorkeling, Sunset, & Bioluminescence Swimming Tour: Snorkel at Caracoles Cay, watch a Caribbean sunset, then swim among glowing bioluminescent waters.

La Parguera Kayaking & Paddleboarding

La Parguera is one of the best places in Puerto Rico to explore by kayak or paddleboard, thanks to its calm Caribbean water and maze of mangrove channels. Many tours paddle out toward Los Cayos, a network of shallow reefs and small cays where you can swim, snorkel, and drift over seagrass beds that serve as nurseries for marine life. Other trips head toward the La Parguera Bioluminescent Bay, where nighttime paddles let you watch the water glow with every stroke. Between the protected water, nearby reefs, and easy routes through the mangroves, paddling here is one of the most immersive ways to experience the south coast.

Our Picks for La Parguera Kayaking and Paddleboarding Adventures

• Bioluminescent Bay Kayak, Swim, & Boat Tour: Set sail on a boat towing the kayaks to the lagoon where you can then paddle around or experience it up close by entering the waters in your kayak. 
• Pedal Kayak Tour – La Parguera: Explore mangrove waterways and nearby keys on a three-cay eco tour.
• Waterbike Los Cayos Reef – Guided Tour: Take a one-of-a-kind Chiliboats waterbike tour to explore Los Cayos with time to swim in the crystal-clear waters. 
• Waterbike Bio Bay Guided Tour: Take the unique waterbikes under the starlit sky to the bio bay where you can enjoy the glow with each stroke.

Ponce – The Cultural Capital of the South

With a seaside boardwalk lined with restaurants, Ponce is a large city on Puerto Rico’s southern coast. With a beautiful old town, Ponce is also a launching point for Isla Caja de Muertos snorkeling over coral reefs, exploring secluded beaches, and hiking to the historic lighthouse with panoramic ocean views. Nearby Santa Isabel offers guided snorkeling tours in calm Caribbean waters teeming with rays, turtles, and reef fish. On land, the Coamo Hot Springs provide a natural geothermal retreat, while the Guayo River carves through rugged terrain, creating perfect spots for swimming and canyon trekking. 

Our Picks for Ponce Adventures

• Isla Caja de Muertos Snorkeling & Hiking Excursion: A hidden Caribbean paradise off the coast of Ponce, this boasts world-class snorkeling along with scenic trails winding up to a historic lighthouse. 
• Private Full Day Isla Caja de Muertos Snorkeling & Hiking Charter: Take a private boat from Ponce to Isla Caja de Muertos for a full day of snorkeling crystal-clear Caribbean reefs, hiking island trails to a historic lighthouse, and exploring Pirate Almeida’s Cave with a local captain who knows the reserve inside and out.
• Santa Isabel Marine Biologist-Led Snorkel Adventure: Swim with turtles, rays, and reef sharks under the guidance of a marine biologist.
• Private Santa Isabel Marine Biologist-Led Snorkel Charter: Join a marine biologist for a private snorkeling adventure along Puerto Rico’s south coast, where you can swim with sea turtles, rays, sharks, and reef fish while learning about the region’s seagrass and coral ecosystems.

Lajas – Small Coastal Town, Big Caribbean Chill

Lajas sits in the southwestern valley and serves as a gateway to off-the-grid south Puerto Rico adventures. The municipality is home to La Parguera, but inland, you’ll find Charco El Pilón — a hidden waterfall tucked into rocky terrain with a natural swimming hole at its base. Follow the trail a little further, and you may discover even more cascading waterfalls, small pools, and quiet forest stretches, perfect for a day of hiking, cliff jumps, or a swim in freshwater pools.

Our Picks for Lajas Adventures

• Charco El Pilón Guided Hiking Tour: Trek to a secluded waterfall, swim in the crystal-clear pool, and explore surrounding cascades tucked away from the crowds.

My Experience in South Puerto Rico

Our stop in Ponce was very short — just one night — and honestly a little chaotic. We spent about three hours that evening trying to actually get into our Airbnb, and with travel plans shifting fast as COVID news was starting to break in early 2020, we suddenly realized we needed to get back to the States sooner than planned. That meant a late night, an early morning, and not nearly enough time to explore the area the way it deserves.

Even so, wandering around the city that evening and stopping by the iconic Parque de Bombas gave us a quick glimpse of a quieter, more historic side of Puerto Rico that felt totally different from the coastlines we’d seen. It was just enough to make me want to come back and do it right.

If we return, Santa Isabel snorkeling is at the very top of my list – a marine biologist–led snorkel tour in calm Caribbean water where you’re actually getting up close with rays, turtles, and nurse sharks. It’s exactly the kind of adventure I’m always chasing: learning about the ecosystem while being right there in it, surrounded by the incredible marine life that makes Puerto Rico’s waters so special and honestly just makes me want to come back and explore more.

Why Visit Puerto Rico’s Southern Side

Puerto Rico’s south coast is where the island slows down – calm Caribbean water, small coastal towns, and days built around getting out on the water. You can paddle through mangrove channels in La Parguera, snorkel reefs and seagrass beds near Santa Isabel, hike to the lighthouse on Caja de Muertos, or soak in the natural Coamo Hot Springs after a day outside. The region is also home to La Parguera Bioluminescent Bay, the only bio bay in Puerto Rico where you’re allowed to actually swim in the glowing water. With protected cays, warm water, and plenty of sunshine, the south coast is perfect for travelers looking for marine life, quiet adventures, and a side of Puerto Rico that still feels a little under the radar.

The post Best Things To Do in South Puerto Rico – Coast & Beyond appeared first on TripOutside.

If you’re searching for the best things to do on the west side of Puerto Rico, this coastal region delivers some of the island’s most iconic surf, snorkeling, and sunset experiences. From catching waves at legendary breaks like Domes Beach to diving offshore at Desecheo Island and floating through bioluminescent waters, the west coast of Puerto Rico is where ocean lovers feel right at home – all wrapped in a laid-back beach culture that’s hard to leave.

Why Visit the West Side of Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico’s western side is the sunset side of the island – a stretch of surf towns, mellow beaches, and reef-filled coves with some of the clearest waters you’ll find anywhere. From the shores of Rincón, Aguadilla, and Isabela, you’re within reach of iconic surf breaks, offshore diving at Desecheo Island, and the reef-protected Tres Palmas Marine Reserve. Nature spots like the Guajataca River canyon offer dramatic scenery, sea caves, and cliffside viewpoints. The west is where coastal adventure meets laid-back beach culture – think barefoot walks along golden sands, palm-fringed surf shacks, and tacos fresh from the food trucks.

In this guide to Puerto Rico’s west coast, we’ll help you plan your activities in this adventure-packed corner of the island. You can surf world-class breaks in the morning, snorkel with sea turtles by midday, and watch the sun drop straight into the ocean from a beachside café at dusk – all within minutes of each other. With consistent surf, healthy reefs, and a tight-knit community of local outfitters and guides, the west coast is perfect for first-time visitors and repeat travelers alike. It’s adventurous without being overwhelming, wild without being hard to reach, and one of the best regions on the island for ocean-focused, human-powered exploration.

Best Time to Visit Puerto Rico’s West Coast

You can visit Puerto Rico’s west coast year-round, but conditions shift with the seasons. December through April brings bigger swells – prime time for experienced surfers chasing heavier waves at breaks like Domes and María’s. Summer through early fall is ideal for snorkeling, diving, and calm-water paddling, with glassy conditions and excellent visibility. Weather here is warm year-round, usually in the low-to-mid 80s°F (~28°C), with generally sunnier skies than the interior mountains. Tours run year-round, but ocean conditions can shift “go days” for snorkeling, diving, or paddling – always check with local outfitters for current conditions.

Getting to the West Coast of Puerto Rico

Most flights land in San Juan, and getting from San Juan to Puerto Rico’s west coast takes about 2 to 2.5 hours by car. Renting a car is the best move if you want flexibility for beach-hopping, surf breaks, and sunset chasing. The drive is scenic, winding through mountain passes before opening up to coastal views. Public transportation is limited on the west coast, so having your own wheels lets you link up surf sessions, snorkel trips, and waterfall hikes without stress.

Alternatively, taking a private shuttle from San Juan to Aguadilla or Rincón is an easy, stress-free option that allows you to skip navigation and arrive relaxed and ready to explore.

Rincón – Sunset Capital & Surf Mecca of Puerto Rico

Rincón is often called the Surfing Capital of the Caribbean, and for good reason. But it’s more than just waves – this coastal town is also a hub for snorkeling, scuba diving, paddleboarding, and waterfall hikes into the island’s green interior. Known for its legendary sunsets, tight-knit surf community, and access to the Tres Palmas Marine Reserve, Rincón is the heartbeat of Puerto Rico’s west coast adventure scene.

Rincon Hiking

Rincón isn’t just a surf town – its hiking adventures take you straight into the island’s green interior. Spots like Playa María’s back trails and the route toward Gozalandia Waterfall lead you to shaded pools, rope swings, and boulder jumps. Catarata Gozalandia (aka Charca de la Leche) is the payoff: a set of waterfalls perfect for swimming after you’ve built up a sweat.

Our Picks for Rincón Hiking Adventures

• Gozalandia Waterfalls Hiking & Swimming Adventure: With transport included from Rincon, enjoy the short hike to both waterfalls and swim in the refreshing natural pools.

Rincon Snorkeling

Rincón is one of the best spots on the island to snorkel, especially if you’re into combo tours that mix snorkeling with paddleboarding or kayaking. Top sites like Steps Beach and the Tres Palmas Marine Reserve offer wide coral gardens, sea turtles, rays, parrotfish, and fantastic visibility. Winter months (December–April) can bring stronger swell, so guided tours or calm-entry shore snorkels are the move that time of year. If you want to go solo, rental gear is easy to grab around town.

Our Picks for Rincón Snorkeling Adventures

• Rincon Rental Gear – Snorkeling, Biking, Scuba Diving, Beach Equipment: Stock up on everything you need so you can hit the reefs on your own schedule and chase the best visibility of the day.
• SUP and Snorkeling Guided Tour: Paddle to your reef site, then jump in with a local guide to explore turtles, reef fish, and coral from two perspectives in one epic session.
• Guided Snorkeling Tour – Tres Palmas Marine Reserve: Follow an expert who knows the currents and the reef, and encounter turtles, rays, parrotfish, and the signature elkhorn coral up close.

Rincon Scuba Diving

Rincón is an incredible place for scuba diving whether you are trying your first-ever dive, or joining guided shore dives if you’re already certified. Shore entries keep the day chill – no boats, no seasickness – and the reefs here are perfect for beginners and experienced divers alike. If you’re certified and feeling fired up, night diving is unreal: eels hunting, bioluminescence, and reef creatures you never see during the day.

Our Picks for Rincón Scuba Diving Adventures

• Rincon Guided Shore Dive – Certification Required: Explore Rincón’s reefs with a local pro who knows where the fish school, where the turtles sleep, and where the current stays friendly.
• Open Water Scuba Diver: Earn your lifetime certification with 5 confined-water sessions and 4 open-water dives in some of Puerto Rico’s clearest training grounds.
• PADI Discover Scuba Diving – No Certification Needed: Try scuba for the first time and experience that unforgettable moment when you take your first breath underwater.
• PADI Scuba Refresher Course: If it’s been a minute, this is the fastest way to dust off your skills and get back into the ocean with confidence.
• Rincon Rental Gear – Snorkeling, Biking, Scuba Diving, Beach Equipment: Grab your tanks and gear so you can explore the reefs on your own terms.

Rincon Paddleboarding & Kayaking

Rincón is made for SUP cruising and kayak missions. You can fully customize your day – combo paddle and snorkel tours, mellow paddles over glassy water, or even SUP surfing if you want to level up your skills. New to paddling? Local instructors get beginners standing and stoked in one session.

Our Picks for Rincón Paddleboarding & Kayaking Adventures

• Tres Palmas Kayak & Snorkel Tour: Paddle out across calm turquoise water, anchor up, and slip straight into the reef with a local guide who knows the best wildlife spots.
• Paddleboard Lessons for Families, Couples, Individuals: Learn balance, strokes, and ocean safety so you can cruise confidently and explore more coastline than you ever could on foot.
• SUP Surfing Lessons: Trade flatwater for waves — expert instructors get you riding and grinning on your first session.
• SUP Sunset Guided Tour: Glide across the ocean under gold and pink skies for a sunset you’ll replay in your head for years.
• Rincon Paddleboard (SUP) Rentals: Explore at your own pace and paddle into quiet coves or reefy corners on your own adventure.
• Rincon SUP Surfboards and Downwind Rentals: Grab high-performance boards for multi-day or weekly sessions if you’re ready to chase bigger progression.

Rincon Surfing

Known as the Surfing Capital of the Caribbean, Rincón surfing is great for all levels. Consistent swells with winter (December–April) produces heavier surf for the experienced crowd. Summer and fall are smoother and perfect for beginners learning their first pop-ups.

Our Picks for Rincón Surfing Adventures

• Beginner Group Surf Lessons: Catch your first wave in warm water with instructors who’ll have you popping up in no time.
• Private One-on-One Surf Lessons: Fast-track your progress with personalized coaching and wave-by-wave feedback.
• Rincon Surfboard Rentals: Get your board dropped straight to your door so you can hit the breaks whenever the surf lines up.
• Surf Lessons for Families, Couples, Individuals: Private, semi-private, or group sessions that turn your whole crew into wave riders.

Aguadilla – Endless Beaches & Clear-Water Reefs

Aguadilla is underrated – fewer crowds, healthy reefs, and ridiculously clear water. It’s home to Crashboat Beach, where the old military pier now functions like an artificial reef, pulling in parrotfish, sergeant majors, and even hawksbill and green turtles. For divers, Aguadilla offers everything from beginner intro dives to advanced certifications and the big one – Desecheo Island, famous for huge visibility and bigger marine life.

Aguadilla Snorkeling

Snorkeling at Crashboat Beach is the standout – easy entry, great visibility, and marine life concentrated around the pier structure. Shacks Beach and Peña Blanca offer more adventurous entries but can have extremely strong currents – only go with experienced guides.

Our Picks for Aguadilla Snorkeling Adventures

• Aguadilla Shore Snorkeling Tour: No boat needed — walk right in and explore reefs full of life on a standard or deluxe guided session.
• Private Snorkeling Tour – Rincon / Aguadilla: Perfect for first-timers or anyone who wants a custom, no-stress experience spotting Puerto Rico’s best marine life.
• Kayak, Scuba, Snorkel – Rental Gear: Gear up and explore at your own pace if you already know your way around ocean conditions.

Aguadilla Scuba Diving

If you’re looking to dive, Aguadilla has everything – beginner intro dives, advanced certifications, night dives, and offshore adventures to Desecheo Island. Whether you want a chill shore dive or an offshore expedition, this coastline delivers.

Our Picks for Aguadilla Scuba Diving Adventures

• Aguadilla Reef Shore Dives – Certified Divers Only: Explore local reefs with a guide who knows every ledge, coral head, and hiding octopus.
• Crashboat Beach Night Dive – 1 Tank Shore Dive: Watch reef life transform as eels hunt and parrotfish tuck into their nighttime bubble cocoons.
• Discover Scuba Diving Adventure – No Certification Needed: Experience your first underwater breaths and explore a real reef—no certification required.
• PADI Open Water Dive Certification: Start your scuba career with professional instruction in pristine water conditions.
• SSI Advanced Open Water Dive Certification: Another agency option for divers looking to level up their skills and confidence.
• Desecheo Island 2 Tank Dive: A 45-minute ride offshore takes you to Candyland and other sites bursting with coral and clear water.
• ReActivate Scuba Refresher Course: Been a while since your last dive? This course allows you to jump back into scuba diving by going through all the basics again.
• Marine Ecology Experience – 2 Day & 1 Night Dive: A deep-dive into ocean science topped off with a glowing UV night dive that feels straight out of an alien planet.

Domes Beach – One of Puerto Rico’s Most Iconic Surf Breaks

Domes is a must-surf spot – heavy winter swell for experienced riders, smoother summer and fall waves for beginners. The backdrop of the old nuclear dome makes the whole scene feel straight out of a surf film. Located just outside Rincón, Domes Beach is where serious surfers and curious beginners alike come to experience one of the Caribbean’s most iconic breaks.

Our Picks for Domes Beach Adventures

• Beginner Group Surf Lessons: Catch that first wave on one of the island’s most famous breaks.
• Private Group Surf Lessons: Ideal for friends or families wanting to surf together with personalized coaching.
• Private One-on-One Surf Lessons: This is great for all surfing experience to get a personal introduction or improvement on skills.

Tres Palmas Marine Reserve – Reef Gardens & Sea Turtle Sanctuary

Tres Palmas Marine Reserve sits right next to Rincón and is one of the most important protected coral habitats in the Caribbean. It’s especially known for its elkhorn coral, a massive branching coral that grows upward like elk antlers. These formations create incredibly complex shelters for reef life and – according to NOAA – they even help protect the shoreline from waves and storms. The reserve is loaded with turtles, eagle rays, octopuses, colorful reef fish, and wide coral structures that make snorkeling or diving here feel like floating through an underwater canyon.

Our Picks for Tres Palmas Marine Reserve Adventures

• Paddleboard & Snorkeling Tour: Learn to paddleboard, then cruise over the reef and jump in to explore the elkhorn forests and marine life up close.
• Tres Palmas Kayak & Snorkel Tour: Paddle out over calm water to a safe anchoring point, then slip into the marine reserve to look for stingrays, parrotfish, butterflyfish, and more with a knowledgeable local guide.
• Tres Palmas Marine Reserve Snorkeling Tour: Follow a guide who knows the reef’s hidden spots and get the chance to see turtles, eagle rays, octopuses, and a whole lineup of colorful reef species.
• Rincon Guided Shore Dive – Certification Required: Experience the iconic coral formations on a relaxed shore entry dive led by a local expert.
• PADI Discover Scuba Diving – No Certification Needed: Take your first-ever dive right inside this unique marine reserve with a certified instructor.

Desecheo Island – Puerto Rico’s Offshore Diving Paradise

Located about 13 miles off the west coast, Desecheo Island is a federally protected wildlife refuge and one of Puerto Rico’s premier dive destinations. The island is uninhabited and only accessible by boat, which means the reefs here are pristine and teeming with life. Expect huge visibility (often 100+ feet), healthy coral formations, and encounters with barracudas, reef sharks, eagle rays, and schools of tropical fish. Dive sites like Candyland are famous among experienced divers for good reason.

Our Picks for Desecheo Island Adventures

• Desecheo Island 2 Tank Dive: A 45-minute boat ride from Aguadilla takes you to world-class dive sites with incredible visibility and marine life.

Isabela – Cliff Views, Seaside Trails & Wild Atlantic Energy

Isabela sits in Puerto Rico’s northwest corner and brings a mix of powerful surf, dramatic cliffs, and hidden inland gems. Jobos Beach delivers the heavy Atlantic energy that experienced surfers love, while the surrounding coastline shows off rugged rock formations and clear tide pools. But Isabela’s inland scenes are just as wild. The Guajataca River cuts through the region, carving its way from the mountains down to the coast. Along its path you’ll find the Guajataca Tunnel, a historic rail tunnel that opens up to a rugged beach, and farther upriver you’ll reach Cueva del Viento, a limestone cave with cooling breezes and unique formations shaped by centuries of flowing water.

Our Picks for Isabela Adventures

• Guajataca River Trekking, Kayaking, & Bodyrafting Adventure: Kayak through the Guajataca River canyon – the second deepest canyon in Puerto Rico – then jump in for some body-rafting sessions through clear mountain water.

My Experience on Puerto Rico’s West Coast

We only had one night in Rincón, but it was enough to understand why the west coast pulls people in and makes them stay. We spent the evening at Domes Beach watching surfers ride long, clean sets as the sun dropped straight into the ocean – the kind of sunset that makes time slow down.

Sitting at Ola Sunset Café overlooking the break, with boards tucked under arms and salt still in the air, felt like the perfect introduction to Rincón’s laid-back surf culture. It wasn’t rushed or flashy – just people chasing waves, swapping stories, and letting the day end naturally.

At the time, my boyfriend (now husband) wasn’t scuba certified, so we stayed on land — but now I can’t stop thinking about what’s just below the surface on this side of the island. Diving at Desecheo Island is high on my list, and Crashboat Beach in Aguadilla especially has my attention for night diving. After dark, the reef comes alive with octopus, hunting eels, lobsters, squid, and glowing pockets of bioluminescence — the kind of underwater experience that feels completely different from anything you see during the day and exactly the type of adventure that keeps me wanting to come back.

Why Visit Puerto Rico’s West Coast

Puerto Rico’s west coast is all about saltwater days and golden-hour adventures – surf sessions at iconic breaks, snorkeling protected reefs with sea turtles, diving offshore islands, and watching sunsets that stop you in your tracks. Whether you’re catching your first wave, floating over elkhorn coral, or just posting up at a beachside café with a cold drink, this side of the island makes it easy to plan a trip that feels full, intentional, and connected to the ocean. Explore thoughtfully, choose human-powered experiences, and you’ll leave salty, tired in the best way, and already scheming your return.

The post Best Things To Do on the West Side of Puerto Rico appeared first on TripOutside.

Top Colorado Rafting Destinations: From Wild to Mild

The Rocky Mountain snowpack we skied this winter is starting to melt, and the runoff is coming in hot. White water rafting Colorado rivers is one of the best ways to experience the season, with epic mountain views, unique wildlife, and legendary rapids for every kind of paddler. From mellow family-friendly floats to full-on Class V go-big river runs, there’s no shortage of ways to get wet.

To create this guide, TripOutside team members weighed in with their rafting expertise, and we leaned in to get the beta from our trusted local outfitter partners – guides who’ve been running these rivers for decades. Every trip listed here is run by our vetted and top-rated outfitters who have deep knowledge and experience on their local waterways. Read on for our favorite Colorado white water rafting adventures, ranked from mild to wild.

White Water Rafting Class System

Not all rapids are created equal. River trips are rated on a Class I to Class V scale that helps paddlers know what to expect—from easygoing floats to heart-pounding whitewater challenges.

New to rafting? Check out our Beginner’s Guide to Rafting for tips on gear, what to expect, and how to choose the right trip for your skill level.

Best Colorado White Water Rafting Destinations

Salida, CO

Mild(er) Whitewater Trips

Brown’s Canyon

The Arkansas River is the most popular white water rafting destination in Colorado. With over 100 miles of rafting opportunities, the river offers something for everyone. The river is divided into several sections, each with different levels of difficulty.  One of the most sought-after sections of white water is located near Salida, CO.  The renowned Browns Canyon section of the river is considered some of the best white water rafting in Colorado, and even the world.  It ranges from class III to class IV, depending on the water levels and season, with the biggest flows typically in June.  The section is considered beginner/intermediate, and booking with an established outfitter is always recommended. 

The canyon itself is a National Monument and is located between Salida and Buena Vista in central Colorado, about 3 hours from Denver.  The rugged canyon and steep cliffs make for great whitewater and spectacular views.  The canyon itself can be completed in a half-day Brown’s Canyon rafting trip, or you can add on more exciting rapids with a full-day trip, private half day rafting trip and even a Brown’s Canyon rafting plus hot springs trip.

Wild Whitewater Trips

The Numbers

For those with rafting experience looking for more adventure, The Numbers is a section of 7 major non-stop rapids with solid thrills from top to bottom.  This is the most continuous section of whitewater on the Arkansas River, and the numerous rapids were numbered rather than named.  This trip will involve paddling hard and navigating steep chutes, big waves, and long rapids.  Participants should be fit and able to swim.  After conquering the rapids, pause to take in the superb views of the Collegiate Peaks, the highest concentration of 14,000+ foot peaks in the U.S.  Short on time? Check out The Numbers Half Day trip. Or combine this exciting rafting trip with a relaxing soak at a nearby natural hot springs on The Numbers Raft + Hot Springs trip.

Canon City, CO

Mild Whitewater Trips

Bighorn Sheep Canyon

Just 8 miles west of Canon City, CO, on the mighty Arkansas River, lies Bighorn Sheep Canyon.  This canyon features family friendly rafting, with primarily Class I-III rapids and the chance for Class IV at the highest flows.  Take in the awe-inspiring views of the canyon in between rapids, and look for the canyon’s namesake bighorn sheep and other wildlife.  Canon City is just 1 hour from Colorado Springs, making this an easy Rocky Mountain getaway.  Bighorn Sheep Canyon makes for a great  half-day white water rafting adventure.

Wild Whitewater Trips

Royal Gorge

The Royal Gorge section is the most challenging section of the Arkansas River, with Class IV and V rapids. Rafting the Royal Gorge in Canon City, CO provides the ultimate whitewater experience for experienced paddlers.  As the canyon narrows to just 25 feet through the Gorge, the river provides big waves, steep drops and Class III-V whitewater.  This advanced rafting trip features legendary rapids and stunning views of 1,000-ft cliffs of the gorge.  This trip is made for those with rafting experience who want a little more thrill.

Idaho Springs / Dumont, CO

Mild Whitewater Trips

Clear Creek 

One of the most convenient rafting destinations to Denver, Idaho Springs offers white water for all ages and abilities.  Just 30 minutes from downtown Denver, Idaho Springs’ Clear Creek offers Class I-IV rapids throughout its varied canyons. The river is only 20 miles long, but it has some of the most challenging rapids in the state. The river is divided into several sections, each with different levels of difficulty.  The beginner section of Clear Creek features fun, Class II-III rapids that are perfect for first-timers – plenty of splash without the gnarly drops, all set against a backdrop of Colorado’s rugged canyon scenery. For a family friendly adventure (ages 5-6+), check out this 2-hour rafting trip or go for a slightly longer version to allow you to hone your skills paddling through smaller rapids while keeping an eye out for wildlife. 

Wild Whitewater Trips

Upper Clear Creek

For experienced paddlers looking to send it, the Advanced Clear Creek trip is steep, fast, and full of action. With a 100-foot-per-mile drop and nonstop Class IV-V rapids like Corkscrew and Hell’s Corner, this is one of the most intense stretches of whitewater in the state. It’s only run at optimal flows and requires prior rafting experience, solid fitness, and strong swimming skills—no warm-up, just straight into the chaos.

Kremmling, CO

Mild Whitewater Trips

Upper Colorado River

The Colorado River offers some of the most scenic Colorado river rafting trips. The river flows through canyons and valleys, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.  White water raft the headwaters of the Colorado River near Kremmling, CO.  This beginner/intermediate section of the legendary Colorado River is an easy 3-hour drive from Denver.  The upper Colorado River’s II-III rapids make it a great family trip, with milder whitewater, superb scenery and a stop at hot springs along the way!  Join a half-day rafting trip on the upper Colorado, or take your time and enjoy even more of the Colorado River with a riverside lunch on a full-day rafting adventure.

Breckenridge, CO

Mild Whitewater Trips

Blue River

The Blue River is the best river rafting trip near Breckenridge, Colorado. This beautiful Class III river runs through the rugged Colorado landscape of the Gore Range mountains. Rafting the Blue River begins just north of Silverthorne, and only 20 minutes from Breckenridge (1 hour from Denver).  The best time of year to raft the Blue River is May-July, and the flow is dependent on water releases from nearby Dillon Reservoir.  The 5-mile trip can be completed in a half day, and it’s the perfect adventure to get a taste of rafting in Colorado.  It’s a family-friendly trip, with kids 6+ welcome. Or check out this Hiking and Rafting Adventure Package and see the best of Summit County over two days with a stunning half-day hike to wildflowers and scenic vistas, and a half-day rafting trip of your choice.

In addition to fantastic rafting, the mountain town of Breckenridge offers up renowned mountain biking, kayaking and SUP at nearby Dillon Reservoir, hiking some of the tallest peaks in the U.S., rock climbing courses and guided climbing adventures, and so much more!  It’s the perfect Rocky Mountain destination for your next vacation.

Durango / Pagosa Springs, CO

Mild Whitewater Trips

Animas River

Southwestern Colorado has spectacular rafting, with the celebrated Animas River starting high up in the San Juan Mountains and cutting its way right through Durango, CO. The river offers a variety of rafting trips, from mild to wild. The Lower Animas section is more moderate, with Class II and III rapids.  Choose from a quick “Splash and Dash” introductory trip that offers 2.5 hours of introductory whitewater rafting through Class I-III rapids.  Listen to historical Old West stories about the early days of Durango while you look for wildlife along the river in between rapids.  If you have a bit more time, taking the half-day trip down the Animas allows for stops along the way for snacks, swimming, and enjoying the scenery (water levels permitting, primarily early summer availability).

Wild Whitewater Trips

Piedra River – Upper Box Canyon

Rafting this breathtaking stretch of the Piedra brings you through continuous class I-IV rapids, as you make your way downriver through more remote areas known for an abundance of wildlife and San Juan views.  The trip meets in Durango, and a shuttle brings rafters to the put-in near Pagosa Springs. This full-day trip stops for a riverside lunch before entering the heavily-forested Upper Box Canyon, the highlight of the trip.  Lone Pine and Limestone Rapids will provide a little more action for those with some rafting experience looking for more whitewater.

Framed by the grand San Juan Mountains in Southwest Colorado, Durango is the ultimate adventure destination.  After your rafting adventure, stay for a few days to paddle alpine lakes, ride high country singletrack, and rock climb the Hermosa cliffs.  There are plenty of things to do in this off-the-beaten-path mountain town.

Telluride, CO

Wild Whitewater Trips

San Miguel River

The half day raft trip down the San Miguel River in Telluride, CO provides unmatched beauty as this snow-melt-fed river plunges from the high peaks of the San Juan Mountains and cascades through San Miguel and Norwood canyons. The contrast between the riparian river ecosystem and the red sandstone canyon makes this trip undeniably unique.  It starts just 5 miles northwest of Telluride and continues for approximately 10 miles through Class I-IV whitewater. The San Miguel is one of the few remaining free-flowing rivers in Colorado.  This 3-hour trip is best experienced in May-June, and kids 10+ are welcome. 

In addition to fantastic whitewater, Telluride is well known for its spectacular hiking and mountain biking trails winding through the rugged San Juans.  The rainbow colors of these mountains are like nothing you’ve seen before!

Glenwood Springs, CO

Mild Whitewater Trips

Shoshone Rapids – Colorado River

The Colorado River in Glenwood Springs has fantastic white water rafting under 3 hours from Denver.  A half day rafting trip down the Colorado River offers 3 hours of excitement starting with the popular Shoshone Rapids. This section of the river offers a 2-mile stretch of Class III-IV rapids that are exciting but not intimidating. In spring, the rapids rise to Class IV, with a gentler Class III in mid-summer and fall.  Enjoy the beauty of the Glenwood Canyon on the Colorado River as you conquer the rapids, including Baptism, Tuttle’s Tumble, Tombstone, The Wall, and Maneater.  This family-friendly adventure allows children 5+ and is a quick 10-minute shuttle ride to the put-in.

Wild Whitewater Trips

Shoshone Rapids – Colorado River

If you are looking for more river rafting adventure in Glenwood Springs, check out the Double Shoshone Rafting trip, which takes you through the Shoshone rapids TWICE!  You will take a more challenging line the second time through the rapids, making this a great option for anyone looking for a bit more excitement.  The minimum age is 5, but this trip includes extra walking and raft carrying, so basic physical fitness is recommended.

Map of Colorado Rafting Destinations

Leave No Trace While Rafting

TripOutside is a member of the Care for Colorado Coalition and Leave No Trace.  It’s important to remember to always follow Leave No Trace principles while rafting. Here are some tips for rafting:

• Travel and camp on durable surfaces – be careful to not damage the terrain at the put in and take out, or anywhere you stop along the river
• Pack out all trash – leave the outdoors better than you found it!
• Leave what you find – leave no trace includes leaving things where they are and avoiding disruption – whether it’s a rock, wildflower or pine cones
• Respect wildlife – rafting is a great way to observe the local wildlife.  But if your actions make them change their behavior, you are not practicing leave no trace.  Wildlife is easily scared by loud voices and quick movements.  Never disturb or feed the wildlife, and enjoy wildlife from a distance

White Water Rafting Colorado

Colorado is a paradise for river rafting, with numerous whitewater rapids to explore. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rafter, there’s a white water rafting trip in Colorado that’s perfect for you. So grab your paddle and hit the rapids for an unforgettable adventure!

The post 8 Best Places for White Water Rafting in Colorado in 2026 appeared first on TripOutside.

Updated 6.26.25

Since hitting the road in our RV back in the summer of 2017, we’ve been on a mission to find the raddest mountain bike towns in the U.S. – the kind of places where you can roll straight from your morning coffee to a mountain bike trailhead. We have a soft spot for these special towns where you can explore via pedal power.  Over the years, we’ve explored high-alpine singletrack, desert slickrock, flowy forests, and everything in between. This list is our personal “best of” compilation: the mountain bike towns that truly stole our hearts (and wrecked our legs—in the best way).

Some of these spots are famous MTB meccas that deserve every bit of the hype. Others are hidden gems we stumbled on by accident, only to find ourselves sticking around way longer than planned. Whether you’re chasing hero dirt in the spring or golden-hour laps in the fall, there are towns on this list that are dialed for two-wheeled adventure year-round.

For each destination, we’re sharing our favorite mountain bike trails, plus some beta on why each town made the cut. When you’re ready to ride, we recommend using Trailforks, Singletracks, or MTBProject to plan your routes and scope trail conditions.

Did we miss your favorite shred town? Drop a comment below—we’re always down to explore more.

Moab, UT 

Moab is one of our favorite places to ride on the planet!  Not only is Moab epic for mountain biking, but the outdoor adventures around this small Utah town are endless.  With spectacular National Parks and State Parks like Arches, Canyonlands and Dead Horse nearby, plus the Colorado River flowing through it, there’s something to meet almost everyone’s outdoor desire.  Plus, it’s very RV and camping friendly!

Must Ride Trails in Moab, UT

Advanced/Intermediate Trails

• Whole Enchilada / Porcupine Rim
  • Shuttle recommended
  • The Whole Enchilada, or the shorter Porcupine Rim, are the most famous trails in Moab for a reason.  They are incredible!  But be ready for a full day in the saddle!
• Mag 7 
  • Shuttle recommended
  • First 5 trails a blast, the last 2 are tough AF and super-advanced.   You should not try the Portal trail unless you are a very advanced rider as there are high-risk drop-offs. Check with the local shop if you’re considering this trail first and they’ll probably talk you out of it.

Intermediate / Beginner Trails

• Brand trails (Bar M)
  • Beginner-friendly options, no shuttle required
  • Some fun slickrock trails!
• Klonzo trail system
  • Great cross-country and trail riding with slickrock
• Klondike Bluffs
  • Ride by some dinosaur tracks!
  • Some technical riding options, and some slickrock trails
• Navajo Rocks
  • Our favorite cross-country trail in Moab. If you’re a cross country rider that wants to get a workout and enjoy the slick rock riding of Moab, Navajo loop is for you.
  • Great all-around experience of Moab: views, slickrock, varied terrains – it has it all!

Beginner

• Dead Horse State Park
  • Best for beginners or for family rides and provides gorgeous views of Dead Horse State Park and Canyonlands National Park.

Renting Bikes & Guided Adventures

• There are some great  bike shops in Moab Utah offering a great line up of full suspension and hardtail mountain bike rentals.
• Our favorites are:
  • Bighorn Mountain Biking for renting right at the trailhead – they deliver right to the Brand Trails and rent at Dead Horse State Park!
  • Double Down Bike Shop has the Revel Rail and Rascal along with Kona branded bikes.
  • Rim Cyclery for renting a road bike or Scott branded mountain bikes
• Or leave the planning to the experts and hit the best trails on guided mountain biking adventure!

Moab is Best Known For

Mountain biking and the outdoors mecca and some of the most scenic Utah National Parks.

Where to Camp in Moab (near Trails)

• Utah Raptor State Park (formerly Willow Springs Rd) – the Klonzo trail system is just down the road
• Klondike Bluffs (North Klondike campground) – set right next to the Klondike Bluffs trails
• Gemini Bridges campground – connects easily to Magnificent 7 trails

Rent an RV for an epic Utah road trip!

Other Outdoor Things to Do in Moab

• Paddling or rafting the Colorado River – choose from guided whitewater trips or a self-guided flatwater float!
• Packrafting adventures on the Colorado and Green Rivers.  Check out our blog post about bikerafting in Moab!
• Canyoneering and rock climbing trips – explore Moab’s stunning slot canyons and towers!
• Visiting Arches National Park
• Hiking and biking Dead Horse State Park
• Visiting Canyonlands National Park

Best Time to Visit Moab

Spring and fall are our top recommended times.  Earlier spring and later in fall you will have the least amount of crowds.

• September and October are the best months to visit if you want to ride the Whole Enchilada. It guarantees that the trail will be open (snow has melted) and it won’t be too hot during the day.
• March, April and early May are great riding months but you may not be able to ride the Whole Enchilada as it may be covered in snow at the top.  Typically you can ride a portion of it though!
• June – August are really hot months and riding hours will be limited, most of the riding will have to be early morning and/or late evening.

Hurricane & Virgin, UT

The Hurricane and Virgin, UT area is known for the magnificent Zion National Park nearby.  For mountain bikers, the areas surrounding the park have some truly incredible trails, and Hurricane is known as a mecca for mountain biking.  With great camping options just off the mountain bike trails, and tons of trails for all levels of riders, Hurricane is a great biking getaway for the whole family.

Must Ride Mountain Biking Trails near Zion National Park

• Hurricane / LaVerkin trails (mostly Intermediate with Beginner options available)
  • Gooseberry Mesa – a 13-mile loop with rolling singletrack, incredible vistas and Slickrock sections that compares to Moab.
  • Hurricane Rim Loop – IMBA Epic trail
  • Jem/Gould Loop
• Wire Mesa Loop (Intermediate / Beginner friendly)
  • This was one of our favorite short loops, although it is only a green/blue trail, it is just so freaking fun! It’s built really well and provides incredible features to tackle and is surrounded by amazing views in all directions.
• The Whole Guacamole (Intermediate to Advanced riders)
  • A more remote, 11-mile loop with 600 ft. of climbing but you will feel that you climbed 1500 ft. due to the rocky terrain.
  • To get to the top where the trailhead starts, you may want to have a high clearance vehicle and possibly require 4×4 if it has rained recently. The road is a gravel road leading up to the top but the last mile before you get to the trailhead can be sketchy and rutted out depending on how the recent weather has been.

Hurricane & Virgin is Best Known For

• Desert riding
• Gorgeous red rock views overlooking Zion National Park
• Redbull Rampage takes place nearby in Virgin, UT

Where to Rent Bikes in Hurricane

Over the Edge Hurricane has the best bikes and customer service in town.  They are a team of riders who can help you find the best trails for your abilities!

Where to Camp

• Hurricane Cliffs – if riding Gooseberry Mesa area
• Dalton Wash Road – if riding The Whole Guacamole
• Rent an RV to explore here!

Other Outdoor Activities Near Zion National Park

• Paddling Quail Creek State Park – cool off from the heat of the desert!
• Canyoneering near Zion National Park
• E-biking in Zion National Park (skip the lines and explore on your own without having to take the shuttle!)
• Hiking Kanarraville Falls

Best Time to Visit Hurricane

The Hurricane area is one of the best destinations for the shoulder seasons. Spring and fall, even winter days can provide great riding during the day with the weather in the 50s in December and January.

Durango, CO 

Mountain biking in Durango, Colorado, is nothing short of epic.  This dope town is situated in the San Juan Mountains, and boasts some of the best trail systems in the country – making it a top destination for riders of all levels. The terrain here is varied and challenging, with everything from flowy singletracks to technical descents.  There’s even a downhill mountain bike park at Purgatory resort. Durango’s biking community is vibrant and welcoming, ensuring you’ll always have someone to share your stoke with as you explore the trails. Plus, the stunning high alpine scenery offers breathtaking views at every turn.

Must Ride Trails in Durango

Advanced/Intermediate Trails

• Engineer Mountain Trail
  • This epic 5-mile downhill trail is best accessed by climbing 2.5 miles up Pass Creek trail, starting at Coal Bank Pass, about 40 minutes north of Durango.  As soon as you hit the base of Engineer Mountain you will pause to take in the high country scenery before tearing down one of the best descents you will ever experience.  The trail is typically dry by July – best ridden late summer/early fall.
• Colorado Trail 
  • The renowned Colorado trail starts right in Durango (and goes all the way to Denver!), and is a must ride. There are many sections that are truly epic for mountain biking, offering a mix of high-altitude riding, alpine meadows, and dense forests.  Our favorite sections are Dry Fork (closer to town) and the Twin Sisters section that starts up at Molas Pass (closer to Silverton).  High country snow and mud make this best ridden in mid to late summer and fall.

Intermediate Trails

• Horse Gulch 
  • This extensive system of trails is being added to frequently, and is some of the best riding right from town.  Options for all levels of riders, but mostly intermediate/advanced
• Twin Buttes
  • The Twin Buttes trailhead lies just west of town on Highway 160 and offers easy access without venturing too far from town.  Options exist for all levels of riders on a variety of connected loops known for their scenic beauty.  Beginners can wind through lush forests, open meadows and rock formations, while advanced riders can take on technical descents and rock gardens.

Beginner

• Three Springs
  • The Three Springs trail system is a great beginner and family-friendly trail network east of town on highway 160.  This well-maintained mix of singletrack and doubletrack provides beautiful views of the surrounding hills, and connects with Horse Gulch (see above) for those looking for a longer day in the saddle.

Renting Bikes & Guided Adventures

• There are several great bike shops in Durango, we recommend 2nd Avenue Sports for the best rentals in town
• Or choose a guided mountain bike adventure to experience the best of the best in Durango!

Durango is Best Known For

The outdoors!  There’s so many outdoor adventures, you may just have to come back for more…

Where to Camp in Durango

• There are several campgrounds if you want to be near town – we recommend Alpen Rose or United Campgrounds of Durango
• Depending on events happening, you can sometimes camp at the Durango Fairgrounds right in town – give them a call to find out!
• Cherry Creek offers camping on Highway 160, not too far from Twin Buttes (you could ride the highway there)
• Camp near Cascade Creek BLM to be closer to the high country rides (EMT trail, Cascade Creek trail)

Rent an RV for an epic Southwest road trip!

Other Outdoor Things to Do in Durango

• Paddling or rafting the Animas River– guided whitewater trips go right through town!
• Packrafting adventures including lessons/clinics
• Paddleboard the flatwater sections of the Animas and take in the gorgeous views
• Explore Durango’s cliffs and canyons on a rock climbing adventure
• Rent an e-bike to pedal the paved path that traverses town, stopping at shops and eateries along the way!

Best Time to Visit Durango

Durango’s location in the southwest means it has a warmer summer season than most destinations!  Riding typically opens up around town in March/April, and in the mid-high country in June.  July/August can get hot in town (90s typically) but you can easily escape to the high country!

Crested Butte, CO

Crested Butte is a top adventure destination in Colorado, earning one of our top spots for mountain destinations. When the snow melts and summer comes, Crested Butte transforms into a biking getaway where trails spanning hundreds of miles and intertwine with scenic wilderness. The town is also surrounded by alpine lakes and rivers for SUP and kayaking after the snow melts. Hiking trails are plentiful right out of town, and hikers will be rewarded with scenic vistas, potential for wildlife spotting, and wildflowers of every color.

Crested Butte has impressive mountain biking stats – with more than 700 miles of singletrack to choose from, bikers of all skill levels can find adventure in these mountains.

Must Ride Mountain Biking Trails in Crested Butte

Close to Town Riding

• Snodgrass (Intermediate)
  • Great trail to ride out of town and an intro to the area, it’s 7.3 miles out and back and provides a great idea of what riding in CB is like and has some beautiful overlooks of Mt. Crested Butte
• 401 Trail (Intermediate to Advanced riders only)
  • High alpine riding, shuttle recommended if you’re not into climbing
  • One of the highest trails in the country that will take you to 11,335’ and a must do rides. It’s a 14-mile loop that is 60% singletrack after taking the dirt road up
  • Features alpine-style riding, leading into luscious green fields and aspens. You get it all with this ride!

Intermediate / Advanced – local’s favorite rides

• Doctors Park
  • If you’re up for a 14.5-mile climb for a gnarly 6-mile shred, this is your trail my enduro friend.
  • You can shuttle this ride if you still want all the shred but none of the grind
    • •  
• Teocalli Ridge
  • About 15 minutes outside of town
  • You climb 2,184 feet over 6.8 miles, some of it may be hike-a-bike. But when you’re on the top, get ready for one heck of a downhill!

Mt. Crested Butte Downhill Park riding (Intermediate/Advanced)

• Evolution Park at Mt. Crested Butte (downhill park)
• Although it isn’t the biggest of the bike parks, it offers 30 miles of singletrack that can please most intermediate and even some beginner downhill riders. There are enough trails for the advanced downhill riders as well that you won’t be disappointed
  •  

Crested Butte is Known For

• High altitude riding in a great attitude town. Surrounded by gorgeous peaks in all directions
• Crested Butte has been known for great skiing and snowboarding for quite some time, and is now on the map for one of the best mountain bike towns as well.

Other Outdoor Activities in Crested Butte

• Paddling rivers and alpine lakes
• Maroon Bells hiking
• Summer festivals and other outdoor activities

Best Time to Visit Crested Butte

• May through September
• July is the best month for wildflowers if you to see the rocky-mountains in technicolor

Salida, CO

You may have never heard of Salida, Colorado, a quaint town in the Colorado Rockies surrounded by peaks over 14,000 feet.  With so many other famous Colorado destinations, Salida often gets overlooked.  But that only adds to it’s intrigue.  Salida is only a 3-hour drive from Denver, and this outdoor mecca plays host to mountain bikers, mountain climbers, rafters, rock climbers…and the list goes on.

Must Ride Mountain Bike Trails near Salida, CO

• Monarch Crest IMBA Epic trail: (Intermediate to Advanced riders only)
  • You’ll need a shuttle for this one and start early. It’s a 36.2-mile point to point ride that will descend 5,890 feet, starting at the elevation of 11,962’!
  • Shuttles available from High Valley Bike Shuttle
• Cottonwood Tour (Intermediate)
  • 1-mile ride that can be broken into smaller sections with options for all riders
  • Ride out of town, shuttle recommended if you’re not into climbing. The beginning of the ride is a 8-mile road climb to the trailhead.
• Methodist Mountain (Great for beginners and intermediate riders)
  • A short but great trail system that has trails that are perfect for beginners and families that don’t want to take on the challenging rides and still have a blast!

Where to Rent Bikes in Salida, CO

• Subculture Cyclery is the main rental shop in town (Absolute has stopped renting bikes)

Where to Camp

• Shavano Wildlife Management area

Salida is Best Known For

• The mind-blowing trails surrounding Salida really put this mountain bike town on the map.  Monarch Crest trail IMBA epic is one of Colorado’s classic mountain bike rides (which makes it one of the U.S.’s classic mountain bike rides)
• Arkansas River rafting
• Basecamp for climbing 14ers

Other Outdoor Activities around Salida, CO

• Rafting the Arkansas river – world renowned rapids!
• Check out our Salida Destination Guide and our Salida Adventure Itinerary!
• Climb 14ers – Mt. Shavano, Mt. Yale are the closest. This area offers one of the highest density of peaks over 14000 ft
• Visit Princeton Hot Springs for a soak after all of your outdoor adventures.

Best Time to Visit

• June – October. Err on the later side if you want to ride the Monarch Crest trail to make sure it is clear of snow. In some years, it is not clear of snow until mid-July

Duluth, MN

Duluth, MN is an up and coming mountain bike destination in the Midwest.  Duluth was recently voted Outside Magazine’s Best Town Ever.   It’s an outdoor mecca surrounded by the pristine Lake Superior and the iconic Northwoods.  With 6,834 acres of city parkland, 178 miles of wooded trails, plus Lake Superior, there’s not much you can’t do when you are outside in Duluth.  Minnesota’s “City on a Hill” overlooking Lake Superior has some of the best mountain biking in the Midwest.  There’s over 150 miles (and growing fast) of bike trails, and Duluth is one of only 5 places in the world with the “Gold Level Ride Center” designation by IMBA.

Must Ride Mountain Biking Trails in Duluth, MN

• There are 150+ miles of riding in Duluth, MN and the tough hardy MN folks ride all year long, even through the brutal winters thanks to fat bikes
• The Duluth Traverse (all levels) is an 85-mile point to point featured ride that is 75% singletrack that rides all the way across town with multiple bailout options for riding just a few sections
• Spirit Mountain downhill trails (Intermediate/Advanced) are Duluth’s only lift-serviced trails.  The trails are short but fun!

Duluth is Best Known For

• Breweries, Minnesota nice community, plaid shirts, and the North Woods.
• Duluth is a relative newcomer on the best mountain bike town list, but the city is expanding trails rapidly and this Midwest town is making a name for itself within the mountain bike community!

Where to Rent Bikes

There is pretty much only one great mountain bike rental shop in town, Continental Bikes

Where to Camp

Unfortunately, there aren’t any free camping areas right in Duluth, but it is Minnesota nice. Check out Boondockers Welcome, it’s like couch surfing for your RV in hosts’ driveways. Requires an annual membership fee but it’s free to camp!  Other options:

• Spirit Mountain ski/bike resort has a campground just steps from their MTB trails
• Fond du lac campground is near the Mission Creek trails

Other Outdoor Activities in Duluth

Duluth is way more than just a mountain biking haven—it’s stacked with human-powered adventure. Paddle the protected waters of the St. Louis River estuary or explore Lake Superior by kayak or SUP. Hike a stretch of the epic Superior Hiking Trail or take in big lake views from local favorites like Park Point and Hartley Nature Center.  If you have a couple days, visit the Boundary Waters Canoe Area to paddle to your hearts content pristine lakes and wilderness of northern Minnesota.

Best Time to Visit

• Summer is a perfect time of the year but BRING BUG SPRAY. The MN mosquitoes don’t eff around..
• Late summer (end Aug/early Sept) can also be a really great time. Temperatures are a bit cooler, but that also means that the worst of the mosquito season is gone!

Northern California: Downieville, North Tahoe, and Truckee CA

Downieville is a charming and colorful adventure town along the Yuba River in Northern California. It began as a gold mining mecca in the 1800s, and has now transitioned into a hub for outdoor adventure. It is well known as a mountain biking mecca, and the renowned Downieville Downhill is the most popular (albeit advanced rated) trail.  Overall, Downieville is a more advanced trail system tailored to intermediate and advanced riders, with technical features, and a few hike-a-bike sections.

Truckee is a charming town perched just north of Lake Tahoe that has it’s fair share of fantastic outdoor adventure.  From biking the infamous Flume Trail to paddling the crystal clear Lake Tahoe, Truckee makes a great Northern California getaway.

Must Ride Trails

• The Flume Trail (Intermediate to Advanced)
  • An obvious pick, but popular for a reason. The rim trail offers incredible views of Lake Tahoe
• Downieville Downhill (Intermediate to Advanced)
  • This renowned 14 mi. shuttle ride features northern California’s classic Sierra mountains riding. It is difficult rated, flowing singletrack with fast, rocky, technical features, and impressive drops. Dropping 5,000 vertical feet in 15 miles, it hosts the longest and most demanding mountain bike race in the country – the Downieville Classic. It’s all about the speed, tight turns, creek crossings, and rock gardens.   The ride requires a 2-car shuttle, leaving one car at the top of the ride – or you can take a shuttle from one of the local companies in Downieville and ride back to your car.
• Northstar Bike Park (all abilities)
  • From the mellow Easy Rider trail to the steep and rocky Karpiel trail, Northstar has trails for all levels of riders.  If you’re looking for flow, check out Livewire and Speed Control.  For jumps, drops and technical features head to Boondocks and Gypsy (strong intermediate to advanced).

Best Known For

• Views of Lake Tahoe from Truckee area trails, paddling on the lake and the IMBA Epic Tahoe Rim Trail
• Downieville Classic bike race

Where to Rent Bikes

Truckee & Northstar

• Riding low-key trails or the paved path? Go with Bike Truckee
• Rent at the renowned Northstar bike park with Northstar Performance Demo

Downieville

• Book online with Downieville Outfitters, you can also book a shuttle with your bike rental!

Where to Camp

• In Truckee: Sagehen campground, it’s free but it’s a bit far and no cell service. Also, lack of bike trails to ride right from the trail system.  There are some full service campgrounds near Truckee if you’re willing to dish out some dough.
• In Downieville: Ramshorn Campground (Forest Service campground, $20-25/night) is one of the closest to town (5.6 miles) and is located right on the river

Other Outdoor Activities in Truckee

• Paddling Lake Tahoe, umm, of course, you have to!  This crystal clear lake is on the top of everyone’s paddling list, whether you prefer a kayak or an SUP
• Hiking around Lake Tahoe, if you’re out of trails to ride. So, after you’ve been there for 5-6 months or if the bike is in the shop.  Or if you have family/friends with that don’t ride..
• Backpacking is a great way to really get off the beaten path and enjoy the epic outdoors in Tahoe.
• Rafting the Truckee River is a classic Sierra adventure—perfect for families, first-timers, and anyone looking to ride some splashy, scenic whitewater through the heart of Tahoe.

Best Time to Visit Truckee and Tahoe

Tahoe and Truckee are popular year round.  For warm weather adventures, there are less crowds earlier in the summer (May/June/Sept/Oct) and the weather is still great.  If you’re looking to ride higher elevation trails such as the Flume trail or Downieville classic, it’s best to hit these trails in late summer or fall to make sure they’re open.

Mammoth Lakes, CA

Mammoth Lakes may be best known for its ski resort, but summer adventures abound around this town in the high Sierras.  The Mammoth bike park (nominated one of our 10 best downhill parks!) caters to mountain bike adventures while hiking and backpacking the nearby John Muir trail is a rite of passage for many.  Convict Lake has stellar paddling opportunities, and camping options in the area come with spectacular Sierra views and natural hot springs.

Must Ride Trails in Mammoth Lakes

• • Intermediate to advanced – Double high five Y
  • Intermediate and beginner-friendly – Uptown Downtown
  • Chairlift access and something for everyone – Mammoth mountain bike park

Mammoth Lakes is Best Known For

• Closest big mountain to LA area. One of the most scenic drives and areas in the country (highway 395)
• In addition to being a top mountain bike town, Mammoth is also known for its phenomenal winter skiing and snowboarding.

Where to Rent Bikes in Mammoth

Rent your mountain bikes easily online with Black Tie in Mammoth – they will even deliver them to your accommodation for a nominal delivery fee!  Looking for a local to guide you around?  Book a bike tour with Black Tie to get to the local gems!

Where to Camp

• Off of Hot Creek Hatchery Spur Rd
• Glass Creek Campground

Other Outdoor Activities in Mammoth Lakes

• There’s an abundance of incredible hiking and backpacking in the High Sierra – join a guided trip to see the best of the best!
• Soak in natural hot springs
• Paddle Convict Lake at sunset
• Day trip to Yosemite National Park (hiking and climbing galore)
• Skiing/snowboarding at Mammoth Mountain in winter

Best Time to Visit Mammoth Lakes

• June through October for warm weather adventures
• Winter for great skiing/snowboarding

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Sedona, AZ

Pros	Cons
Easy to get to from Phoenix	Too hot for summer riding
Shoulder season mecca	Lack of fun post riding spots and lack of nightlife
Lots of trail options	Sedona has gotten very crowded…think pink jeep tours. Just pass them while you bike and wave
Lots of trails for the advanced to the expert rider to test out their skills

Sedona is considered by many one of the most beautiful places in America to visit. Geographically, Sedona rests in a transition zone between the Colorado Plateau and Upper Sonoran Desert. This sacred and powerful place is home to several spiritual energy vortexes, as well as an extensive trail system with unparalleled options for mountain biking and hiking.  Sedona offers astounding red rock vistas and is a perfect destination for the off-season months when the rest of the country’s trails are covered in snow.

Must Ride Trails in Sedona

Sedona has SO many incredible trails – mainly Intermediate/Advanced, but some beginner-friendly options exist.  For more information on trails, check out our 6 best intermediate rides in Sedona article.

Sedona is Best Known For

Off-season riding. When it’s too cold for the rest of the country, head down to Sedona.  Sedona is probably the best known mountain bike town in Arizona… for good reason.

Where to Rent Bikes in Sedona

• There are several bike shops in Sedona, AZ that each offer a great line up of mountain bike rentals.  Rentals range from $40 to $100 per day.
  • Thunder Mountain carries the hottest line up of mountain bikes from several amazing brands like Evil, Ibis, Revel, Santa Cruz, Intense and more.  Their location downtown Sedona is convenient to the Western Gateway, Dry Creek and Carroll Canyon trail networks.
  • Sedona Bike and Bean rents bikes right in Oak Creek Village and grab a latte from them pre-ride
  • Or take the guesswork out of where to go and join a guided mountain bike tour, plus get some tips to improve your riding with the experts at Sedona Mountain Bike Academy!

Where to Camp

The options for free camping have dwindled lately, due to overcrowding, abuse and lack of LNT.  Road 525 is the closest to town, and still has some options but they are limited.  Make sure it stays open by sticking to one of the established parking/camping spots and practicing Leave No Trace principles!  There are also a couple nice campgrounds in town if you want to be right in the action.

Other Outdoor Activities in Sedona

• Hiking opportunities are endless, and the views are spectacular no matter where you go.  Book a guided hike to explore the best spots and discover Sedona’s magical vortexes with a local expert.
• Cool off with a kayak tour or rental and paddle the desert oasis of the Verde River!

Best Time to Visit Sedona

• Spring and fall are the best times to visit, it’s very hot in the summer
• Winter can be a great time to ride too, temps are usually in the 50s in Dec/Jan and up to the 60s by February – it’s also the best time to save money on hotels and other accommodation

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Wydaho – Victor and Driggs, ID + Alta, Wyoming

Pros	Cons
Remote, wilderness riding experience (not in the wilderness)	You’ll want to move to Idaho
Chairlift options available at Grand Targhee	A hard to get to destination
Close to some of the best National Parks in the country	Riding in grizzly country, carry bear spray, please.

The quieter western side of the Tetons is home to some of the best mountain biking, hiking and paddling in the area.  Even better, the crowds dissipate once you cross the pass from Jackson.  Summer opens up the incredible lift-served biking trails at Grand Targhee resort.  Victor is known as the ‘wild west’ of mountain biking, with trails that start near town and stretch into the Big Hole mountains.  The Big Holes offer a ton of varied riding opportunities and are known for their wild, rugged nature.

Must Ride Trails 

• Grand Targhee trails – (All skill levels)
  • Lift serviced downhill runs plus great cross-country trails in Alta, WY on the west side of the Tetons
  • Ride: all of them. For a great XC ride, get to 38 special and ride it up to Peaked and come back down. The views up 38 special are pretty dang magnificent
  • Chairlift access, trails for all ability levels and lots of XC riding options
• Phillips Ridge to Phillips Canyon loop (Intermediate to Advanced riders only)
  • This is a gnarly loop that offers gorgeous views in the Victor/Wilson area. A nice long climb ascending 2300’ with some technical descending areas thrown in.
• Horseshoe Canyon trails in Driggs (Intermediate)
  • Flowy trails in the Big Hole mountains to the west of Driggs

Wydaho is Best Known For

• These towns that straddle the border of Wyoming and Idaho are some of the best mountain bike towns around.
• Remote riding that is easily accessible but please do know that you’re in grizzly country, check out this article to make sure you’re prepared and aware

Where to Rent Bikes

• On the mountain – Grand Targhee at the Habitat Bike Shop

Where to Camp

• Grand Targhee Resort – It’s not free, it’s around $20 to camp in their lot, but it’s ride in/ride out!  We recommend calling ahead to make a reservation.
• The Big Eddie Campground
  • Free campground on the Teton River outside of Driggs
  • If you camp here, consider riding the Horse Shoe area trails if you have ridden all the other great stuff
  • This is a prime moose habitat, respect their space and enjoy these majestic animals

Sun Valley / Ketchum is Best Known For

• Remote trails with few people
• Sun Valley mountain resort
• Great rafting, hiking, hot springs, and more biking just north in Stanley, Idaho

Where to Rent Bikes

Rent premium mountain bikes for Sun Valley with Black Tie – they will even deliver them to your accommodation for free when you rent for 2+ days!

Where to Camp

Where do we begin… there are so many options:

• Lake Creek Road – closest to town and unbeatable scenery: farther up the road is 16-day free camping
• Trail Creek Rd
• Warm Springs Canyon
•  

Other Outdoor Activities in Sun Valley

• Paddling Redfish Lake – it’s touristy but worth it
• Rafting the Salmon River in Stanley, ID
• Hiking options abound in the wilderness surrounding Ketchum

Bellingham, WA

Bellingham has a world class mountain biking destination with over 65 miles of singletrack – Galbraith Mountain.  Take a guided mountain bike tour from local experts, Dig Deep Tours, to ensure you hit the best trails during your stay!

Must Ride Trails in Bellingham

Galbraith Mountain

• All of the trails. Yes… all of them! They are incredible.  Mostly Intermediate/Advanced trails

Bellingham is Best Known For

The trails in Bellingham are known for their technical features built into the awesome PNW dirt. Lots of ladder bridges, rock drops, but enough trail for anyone to enjoy regardless of rider ability. Best suited for intermediate for advanced riders however.

Renting Bikes & Guided Adventures

• Transition Bikes – the company headquarters. Go visit them and tell Blake we said hello. The whole crew here is awesome, you get to ride their latest bikes and the money goes to local trail systems.
• We highly recommend you make the most of your time and take a guided mountain bike tour from local experts, Dig Deep Tours

Where to Camp

The Dollar Lot just outside of Galbraith Mtn.  Find out if you can still camp here before you show up with your rig (we heard it may have changed since we were there). It’s at the base of the Galbraith mountain and when we visited, it was $10/night and there is nothing better than riding out of camp to hit the Galbraith trails. If you get in trouble, we didn’t tell you about this.

Other Outdoor Activities in Bellingham

• Paddle boarding in Puget Sound – SUP tours and lessons for beginners and experts alike!
• Visit Canada, heck, you’re close enough to Vancouver and even Whistler downhill park (one of our 10 best downhill parks!)

Bend, OR

Bend is no longer a secret… but that certainly doesn’t mean that it should be overlooked.  In fact, it’s one of the best mountain biking destinations out there!  Plus, it’s an amazing location along the Deschutes River on the eastern edge of the Cascade Range make it a prime destination for paddling, hiking, skiing, and more.  It’s also known for its many tasty microbreweries – so finish off your ride with a cold one!

Must Ride Trails in Bend

• Phils Trail System
  • So much to choose from here, for all levels – beginner to advanced
• Our Bend Mountain Bike Trail Guide details all of our favorite rides!

Where to Camp

Forest Road 300 Deschutes National Forest – you are camped practically on top of the mountain bike trails – Ride on/ Ride off!

Where to Rent Bikes

Project Bike is one of the coolest bike shops as they are a full on demo shop.

Bend is Best Known For

Although it is not as small as some of the other towns on our list and could technically be on a ‘city’ list, (it does have a Whole Foods after all), Bend is one of the most outdoorsy towns in the country. In addition to hundreds of miles of fantastic riding close to town, Bend has tons of great microbreweries, restaurants and the Deschutes River running right through town.

Other Outdoor Activities in Bend

• Paddling the Deschutes River
• Visiting Newberry National Monument

North Georgia: Ellijay, GA / Blue Ridge, GA / Dahlonega, GA

North Georgia has some pretty sick singletrack – rolling hills, thick forests and long ridges make it a premier mountain biking destination in the Southeast.  There are fantastic trail options right in the heart of Atlanta and all the way north through the Blue Ridge Mountains stretching through North Carolina and Tennessee.

Must Ride Trails in North Georgia

• Ellijay, GA
  • Pinhoti 1, 2 and 3: Intermediate riding through classic north Georgia scenery
• Blue Ridge, GA
  • Aska trail system: 17 miles of more great intermediate/advanced riding with up to 3200 feet of climbing (that’s a lot for Georgia!)
    • Green Mountain Loop or Flat creek loop – fantastic Intermediate trail options at Aska
    • Stanley Gap – Advanced
      • This is a tough climb that doesn’t give any breaks until you’re at the top, which makes for an incredibly rewarding downhill as well
• Dahlonega, GA
  • Bull and Jake Mountain IMBA Epic – Intermediate trails with great flow, scenic vistas over the north Georgia mountains and ripping downhills

 

North Georgia is Best Known For

These are the best mountain bike towns in North Georgia, and are easy 2-3 hour drives from the capital of Atlanta.  They feature great cross country and trail riding, lots of roots and rocks, stream crossings and beautiful dense forests. Be prepared for humid summers!

Where to Rent Bikes

Cartecay Bikes in Ellijay is our favorite shop nearby.

Where to Camp

• Ellijay: Mulberry gap is your best bet. It caters to mountain bikers camping, is right near the trail network, and you’ll be surrounded by riders!
• Blue Ridge: Morgantown Point Campground
• Dahlonega: Jake Mountain parking lot (free!) has a few camping spots, not in the main parking, take the road to the right of the parking lot

Other Outdoor Activities in North Georgia

• Whitewater rafting at the Ocoee River
• Paddling Lake Blue Ridge
• Incredible hiking – especially when the leaves change in the fall!

Best Time to Visit

Spring and fall are perfect in the South. Summer is hot, but the trails are very shaded so if you are used to the heat, it’s manageable.  The fall colors in the southeast are a big attraction but know that pine needles and leaves can make the trails slippery at times. But you got this!

Bentonville/Bella Vista Arkansas

Pros	Cons
Quaint town with world class microbreweries, restaurants, boutiques and miles upon miles of singletrack	Arkansas can be off-the-beaten path for outdoor enthusiasts
Year-round riding	Limited free camping options
Singletrack trails less than a 2 minute pedal from town	Not really a “mountain town”
Thoughtfully planned trails that make use of space extremely well

Bentonville is now known for more than just Walmart.  It’s award-winning mountain bike trails are attracting more and more riders every year.  This small Arkansas city has some of the best singletrack in the country now. Several members of the Walton family are passionate mountain bikers, and their Foundation helped to build the fantastic trail network.

Best Biking Trails in Bentonville/Bella Vista

The great thing about the various sections of purpose-built singletrack in the Bentonville area is that there are trails for all levels.

• The Back 40 Loop (Intermediate):  The nearby town of Bella Vista has 40 total miles of “back country” singletrack and it’s famous for its long climbs and descents.  Twenty miles of the Back 40 singletrack makes up the Back 40 loop. It can be ridden either way and is family-friendly and great for kids.  Counter-clockwise is the best option for more advanced riders due to the exposure and technical riding on The Ledges section. The rest of the ride is mostly cross-country with some rollers, berms and flow as well as a “hanging bridge”, waterfall and other scenery.
• The Coler Network (All Levels): 17 miles of well designed trails with a variety of terrain – from green kid-friendly trails to black diamond rated rocky, technical runs.  All of the trails start from a central trailhead and connect back to the bottom, making it a great place for groups of varying levels to ride.  Rock Solid is a rocky, technical trail to test out your demo bike… and your skills.
• The Slaughter Pen (All Levels): these are some of the legendary, original trails in the Bentonville area.  Start with the beginner-friendly All-American trail – a fun and flowy trail features optional ladder bridges, rollers and berms and is a great intro to the area. Trails available for all levels of riders.

Where to Rent Bikes

Visit Phat Tire Bike Shop for your Bentonville biking trip. With a collection ranging from mountain bikes to cruiser bikes, Phat Tike Bike Shop has got you covered. They also have an incredible 4.9 star Google rating because of their awesome customer service.

Bentonville is Best Known For

• The home of Walmart
• The many different organizations that came together to build these fantastic mountain bike trails in record time

Where to Camp in Bentonville

Blowing Springs Campground – it’s ride in/ride out to the Back 40 trails!

Other Outdoor Things to Do in Bentonville

• Exploring the Crystal Bridges art trail – ½ mile dog-friendly walk with outdoor sculptures and native plants
• Arkansas road trip to explore the singletrack at 53 state parks that are developing mountain bike trails throughout Arkansas
• Hiking Tanyard Creek Nature Trail

Best Time to Visit Bentonville

You can ride here year-round!  Spring is the busiest season, and summer brings cooler temperatures than some other well known biking destinations, so is a great time to visit if you aren’t a fan of the heat.

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Asheville & Brevard, North Carolina

Pros	Cons
Asheville is home to more breweries per capital than any city in the US!	Tourism traffic in summer
Asheville is an outdoor enthusiasts paradise, with some of the best biking, paddling, rafting, hiking, backpacking and climbing on the east coast.	Not much free camping, but tons of paid camping spots
We love Asheville’s funky hipster vibe and it’s arts district.

Asheville is a truly incredible gem of the Southeast.  It’s outdoor recreation can’t be beat – it’s surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains, many National Forests and opportunities for almost every outdoor activity you can imagine.  The city itself has a very artsy vibe and is filled with great restaurants, cocktail bars, eclectic shopping, art galleries and microbreweries.

Asheville is quickly gaining traction in the MTB scene thanks to its plethora of incredible trails that bring bikers to it’s lush green forests, flowy singletrack and scenic Blue Ridge views.  Popular mountain bike networks such as Pisgah and DuPont are located just 15 minutes away from downtown Asheville.

Best Biking Trails in Asheville

• Pisgah National Forest – Pisgah is known for its advanced, technical riding with plenty of roots, rocks and gnarly stuff.  This National Forest covers 500,000 acres with 3 trailheads: Bent Creek, Mills River and Davidson River.
  • Bent Creek is the closest to Asheville and it’s a great place to start a trip to Pisgah to get a feel for the trails before continuing further into the more remote sections.  There isn’t a ton of beginner trails in Pisgah, but most are located near the Bent Creek trailhead.  Advanced riders will also find various trails with climbs and some technical features.
  • Mills River is south of Bent Creek and has the most trails of any section of Pisgah.  We highly recommend 2 different loops here: Fletcher Creek and Laurel Mountain. These trails have more of a backcountry feel to them because the area is less developed.
  • Davidson River is the most popular recreation area in Pisgah.  The trails closest to the main highway are the busiest, and the farther you venture, the more solitude you will find.  You will find a variety of singletrack and doubletrack here that is technical, rocky and steep. In this section you can ride to and explore Looking Glass Falls and Sliding Rock.
• Dupont State Forest features almost 100 miles of trails for all levels across the 10,000 acre forest.  One of the most unique features of Dupont is the opportunity for slickrock riding. Not many trails can boast slickrock outside of Moab, but Dupont has a fantastic network of trails where riders can bike over and across these large granite rock domes, visit 4 beautiful waterfalls and ride through the dense Southeast foliage.

Asheville is Best Known For

• Biltmore
• Pisgah National Forest
• Mountains-to-Sea Trail
• Blue Ridge Mountains

Where to Rent Bikes

For repairs and rentals, stop by Asheville Bike Company.

If you want to rent closer to the riding destinations, you’re better off renting in Brevard from The Hub or Sycamore Cycles

For a guided adventure or lessons, you can also check out The Bike Farm, bonus…they have camping options as well.

Where to Camp

• There are a few dispersed sites in the Mills River area of the Pisgah National Forest – make sure they are the designated sites, camping is not allowed anywhere!
• Davidson River campground or Bent Creek campground are great places to set up camp and explore the nearby trails

Other Outdoor Activities in Asheville

• Kayaking, canoeing, tubing, SUP and whitewater rafting one of the country’s oldest rivers, the French Broad
• Guided hiking, backpacking and camping opportunities galore in the Blue Ridge Mountains including Pisgah and Dupont

Best Time to Visit Asheville

Asheville blooms from March to May. The mild temperatures around these months are ideal for outdoor activities. May is also Asheville’s festival month. Summer is also a great time to take a reprieve from the South’s hot summer days in the cooler mountains surrounding Asheville – but it’s definitely busier.

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Copper Harbor, Michigan

Pros	Cons
Copper Harbor trail network is an IMBA designated Silver Level Ride Center	Can be off the beaten path (but this may be a Pro too!)
Western-like riding experience dubbed “the BC of the Midwest”	Not a ton of true beginner terrain (but they are adding more)
Rugged Lake Superior shoreline riding and views

Copper Harbor is Michigan’s northernmost community, a small village that sits on a protruding peninsula deep into the clear blue waters of Lake Superior.  It has world famous mountain biking and sea kayaking, and is the takeoff point for a trip to Isle Royale National Park, an archipelago of wilderness in Lake Superior.

The Best Biking Trails in Copper Harbor

• The majority of the trails at Copper Harbor are rated intermediate – check out the popular Garden Brook (3 miles) and Woopidy Woo (2.5 miles) trails, or the longer Keweenaw Point trail (5.5 miles)
• For experienced riders, hit up Overflow and Flying Squirrel.  Or try out the more technical trails like Red Trail and Paul’s Plunge.

 

Copper Harbor  is Best Known For

• It’s beautiful location on a rugged peninsula jutting out into Lake Superior
• Gateway to Isle Royale National Park
• Mountain biking mecca
• Year-round outdoor activities

Where to Rent Bikes

Keweenaw Adventure Company is a highly rated outfitter that provides mountain biking rentals and tours.  They also offer sea kayaking tours and rentals on Lake Superior and Isle Royale National Park.

Where to Camp

• Trails End Campground – rates start at $10 a night. Just 2 minutes away from downtown.
• Fort Wilkins Historic State Park – nightly rate starts at $30. The park is only 2 minutes away from Copper Harbor city center.

Other Outdoor Activities in Copper Harbor

• Sea kayaking on Lake Superior
• Isle Royale National Park – backcountry hiking, camping, swimming

Best Time to Visit Copper Harbor

The weather from June to September is the perfect season for biking, hiking and camping.  Winter months offer great skiing, snowshoeing and fat biking opportunities!

Map of Top Mountain Biking Towns

The post Best Mountain Bike Towns in the US for 2026 appeared first on TripOutside.

Best Ski Resorts to Escape the Crowds

Big Sky Resort, Montana

Big Sky is one of the best resorts in North America to escape the crowds. With 5700 acres of terrain, there’s plenty of room to spread out at Big Sky. Its remote location in southwest Montana also makes it a bit more difficult to get to than the resorts located near a major airport. Big Sky features beefy terrain for those looking for extreme skiing experiences. Combine that with crazy steeps, impressive backcountry access, and Montana powder that can reach up to 30 feet, you’ll soon understand why Big Sky is the ultimate ski destination for big mountain skiers looking for a little more solitude. On a clear day, Big Sky’s Lone Mountain peak treats skiers to stunning views of 10 Montana mountain ranges, as well as Idaho and Wyoming mountains, including the Tetons.

Big Sky also features beginner terrain that makes it a great place for family skiing activities. Lone Wolf, Mr. K, and Cinnabar are wide green runs where you can hone your skiing skills before conquering the steeper trails.

Getting to Big Sky Resort

Big Sky is located just 53 miles from Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport. With shuttle services and shuttle cars available at the airport, getting to Big Sky is easy.

Big Sky Resort Mountain Stats

• 5850 skiable acres and 36 lifts
• Vertical rise of 4350 feet, with one lone peak
• Over 300 runs, with the longest being 6 miles (Liberty Bowl to Mountain Mall)
• 7 terrain parks
• Average snowfall of 400 inches
• Terrain breakdown: 15% beginner, 25% intermediate, 42% advanced, 18% expert

Where to Rent Gear in Big Sky

For quality ski gear and equipment delivered right to your accommodation in Big Sky, book online with Black Tie Ski Delivery.  Booking on TripOutside gets you an extra 10% off!  Or choose the slopeside Christy Sports  located in the Arrowhead mall with access to the Ramcharger ski lift.

Crested Butte Mountain Resort, Colorado

Crested Butte lies just 12 miles from Aspen as the crow flies, with the remote Maroon Bells wilderness and some of Colorado’s highest peaks separating the two towns.  In winter, Kebler Pass closes and the drive between the two can take almost 4 hours. Nicknamed Colorado’s last great ski town, Crested Butte’s remote location adds to its intrigue. There’s a number of things that will draw you to Crested Butte – the towering Mt. Crested Butte, the quaint Victorian town nestled in it’s shadow, and the breathtaking mountains that surround the valley.  Add in the diverse and expansive terrain at Crested Butte Mountain Resort, and you will agree that Crested Butte is the perfect destination for your next ski trip.

Crested Butte attracts advanced skiers willing to put their skiing skills to the test with it’s advanced inbounds terrain. Beginners will also enjoy skiing or snowboarding at Crested Butte – the front of the mountain are uncrowded trails that are perfect for beginner skiing. For intermediate and expert skiers, the resort features tons of more advanced terrain off the Paradise and East River Express Lifts, The North Face Lift, Gold Link Lift, and Teocali Bowl.

Getting to Crested Butte

There are two regional airports you can fly to if you’re planning to visit Crested Butte.  Gunnison Crested Butte Regional Airport is 30 minutes from Crested Butte and Montrose Regional Airport 90 minutes away. Alternatively, you can fly to Denver International Airport, which may have more flight options. From there, you can rent a car for the 4 hour drive, or choose from several charter ground transportation services from Alpine Express.

Crested Butte Mountain Stats

• 121 runs – 14% beginner, 25% intermediate, 25% advanced runs, and 36% expert runs.
• The longest run is 2.61 miles.
• Skiable terrain of 1547 acres.
• Vertical lift of 2775 feet.
• Average annual snowfall is 217 inches.

Where to Rent Gear in Crested Butte

The resort’s base area provides easy access to the slopes and features rental shops like Christy Sports Treasury Center and Butte & Co. Both shops offer high-quality service and are just steps from the lifts, making it easy to grab your gear and hit the mountain. If you’re staying in town, the historic downtown area has excellent rental shops like The Alpineer, which offers convenient options for picking up your gear before heading up the mountain.

For the ultimate convenience, Black Tie Ski Delivery brings premium ski gear straight to your lodging in Crested Butte. When you book through TripOutside, you’ll even get 10% off!

Sun Valley Resort, Idaho

Named for it’s copious amounts of sunshine, Sun Valley Resort is a to pick for best uncrowded ski resort that sees less crowds but offers the same incredible mountain resort experience.  More popularly known as the “birthplace of destination skiing,” Sun Valley has diverse terrain spread across two different mountains. Bald Mountain is considered  one of the best ski destinations in the world with it’s 13 lifts and 65 runs, while Dollar Mountain is a great place for beginners to learn. Bald Mountain has a delightful base village perfect for après ski, and the charming nearby town of Ketchum offers everything one could want from shopping to dining and nightlife.

Getting to Sun Valley

You can easily reach Sun Valley by flying to Friedman Memorial Airport in Hailey. From there, it is a 12 mile drive to Sun Valley. Rent a car for the short drive, or take a shuttle with Sun Valley Shuttle company.  Ketchum is a compact, walkable town so a rental car is not always necessary.

Sun Valley Resort Mountain Stats

• Sun Valley has a vertical rise of 3400 feet and skiable terrain of 2054 acres.
• The resort features a total of 78 trails – 36% for beginners, 42% for intermediate skiers, and 22% for expert/advanced skiing.
• Sun Valley has 18 lifts.
• Average annual snowfall is at 220 inches.

Where to Rent Gear in Sun Valley

For ski and snowboard gear in Sun Valley, you can’t go wrong with the convenience of delivery, with the highly rated Black Tie Ski Delivery or Ski Butlers. Booking on TripOutside gets you an extra 10% off!

Whitefish Mountain Resort, Montana

Whitefish Mountain Resort is a large ski resort in northern Montana, 35 miles west of Glacier National Park and 7 miles from the town of Whitefish.  Not only is Whitefish one of our best uncrowded ski resorts, it is also one of the most affordable large ski resorts in the West, with lift tickets starting at under $100 per day.   It’s 3,000 acres features 111 marked trails and lots of bowl and tree skiing.  The resort is easy to access via Glacier Park International Airport just 18 miles away in Kalispell, which is served by major airlines like Delta, United, Frontier and more. Whitefish boasts a vast 3,000 acres of terrain (one of the largest resorts in the U.S.!), 4 terrain parks, 12 chairlifts plus a conveyer carpet and 2 T-bars.

Getting to Whitefish Mountain Resort

Fly into Glacier Park International Airport in the town of Kalispell, just 18 miles from Whitefish Mountain Resort.  Direct flights land from Denver, Minneapolis, Chicago, Seattle, Salt Lake City, Vegas, Atlanta and more.  Or take the Amtrak into Whitefish for an incredibly scenic journey.  The Empire Builder line train arrives daily from points east (Minneapolis, Chicago) and west (Seattle, Portland, Spokane).  Both shuttle services and car rentals are available at the airport.

Whitefish Mountain Resort Stats

• 113 trails – 12% beginner, 37% intermediate, 44% advanced, 7% expert.
• 3000 acres of skiable terrain.
• 4 terrain parks.
• 300 inches of snow annually.
• Summit elevation: 6817 feet.
• Longest run: 2.5 miles.

Where to Rent Gear in Whitefish

We highly recommend the 5-star rated Black Tie Ski Delivery, which offers ski rentals delivered directly to your Whitefish accommodation.  Booking online through TripOutside saves you an extra 10%!

Telluride Ski Resort, Colorado

Thanks to its legendary terrain, Telluride is considered one of the best skiing destinations not only in the US, but also in the world.  Telluride is home to 2000 acres of terrain which is known for its steep, vertical drops.  Almost 50% of Telluride’s trails are advanced/expert which means Telluride is a great destination if you’re looking for a challenge. It also delivers wide open slopes and a low pressure atmosphere which welcomes beginner snowboarders and skiers. With over two miles of blue and green runs, Ute Park, Sunshine, Prospect Bowls are runs that newbie skiers will love. Surrounded by the nearby San Juan Mountains, the resort showcases spectacular scenery.  Thanks to its remote location in southwest Colorado, Telluride stands out as one of the best uncrowded ski resorts, celebrated for its minimal lift lines and serene slopes. This makes it a fantastic Colorado skiing getaway where you can enjoy a variety of runs all to yourself.

Getting to Telluride

The closest airports to Telluride are regional airports, which means you may have to connect.  Telluride Regional Airport is a short 15 minute drive, Montrose-Telluride International Airport is a 1.5 hour drive, and Durango-La Plata Regional Airport is 2.5 hours from Telluride village. Shuttle services from Telluride Express are available at all airports mentioned above, as are car rentals.

Telluride Ski Resort Mountain Stats 

• Vertical lift of 3790 feet, and 2000 acres of skiable terrain.
• The ski resort has 17 lifts.
• There are 148 trails in Telluride – 23% beginner, 36% intermediate, 41% advanced/expert.
• Average annual snowfall is 280 inches.

Where to Rent Gear in Telluride

Looking for ski or snowboard gear for your Telluride ski trip?  TripOutside has vetted the best Telluride ski rental shops whether you want in town, on mountain or delivery.  At Telluride Mountain Village, we recommend Alpineer Telluride Mountain Village or Bootdoctors Mountain Village. If you are staying in the town of Telluride, you can also rent right in town near the gondola, which connects you directly to the slopes. Christy Sports Oak Street is a customer favorite that’s easily accessible for picking up gear before heading up the gondola. 

Alternatively, skip the rental shop altogether and opt for Black Tie Ski Delivery Telluride, which brings all your gear directly to your accommodation—plus, you can save an extra 10% by booking on TripOutside!

Schweitzer Mountain Resort, Idaho

Looking for a less crowded ski getaway in the Pacific Northwest? Schweitzer Mountain Resort is northern Idaho’s best-kept secret and a top contender among our best uncrowded ski resorts. Located in the panhandle region east of Spokane, WA, its panoramic views stretch across the town of Sandpoint, Lake Pend Oreille, and even into Canada. As the largest ski resort in Idaho and Washington, Schweitzer offers quiet, uncrowded runs and a sense of solitude that’s hard to match.  Don’t assume Schweitzer is an easy ski destination, though – its epic steeps will also challenge you! For top notch lodging near the runs, check out Schweitzer Mountain Resort Lodging. Other nearby accommodation options abound in nearby Sandpoint.

Getting to Schweitzer

Schweitzer Mountain is just a 2 hour drive from Spokane International Airport.  Or take the Amtrak from Seattle or Portland right to Sandpoint!

Schweitzer Mountain Stats 

• Total of 2900 skiable acres, and a 2400 foot vertical lift.
• The resort features a total of 10 lifts.
• 92 trails – 10% beginner, 42% intermediate, 35% advanced, and 15% expert.
• Average annual snowfall is 300 inches.

Where to Rent Gear at Schweitzer

Treat yourself to the ultimate convenience of rental gear delivery in Schweitzer with Black Tie Ski Delivery. Booking on TripOutside gets you an extra 10% off!

Wolf Creek Ski Area, Colorado

If deep powder runs all to yourself is what you live for, Wolf Creek Ski Area will be right up your alley. With an annual snowfall of 430 inches, Wolf Creek is known to have the most snow in Colorado.  Known for its one of a kind hike-to-terrain features, it’s favored by adrenaline junkies.  With runs that are equally divided for beginners and more experienced skiers, there’s something for every skier and rider here. The place may be more laid back than its neighbors, but its wide open powder runs are just as exciting. If you can’t wait to start the skiing season, visit Wolf Creek. It opens as early as mid-October depending on the snowfall!

Getting to Wolf Creek

To get to Wolf Creek, your best bet is to fly to Durango Airport. You can rent a car at the airport for the 1.5 hour drive to Wolf Creek.

Wolf Creek Ski Area Mountain Stats 

• 1600 feet of skiable acres, and 1604 feet vertical lift.
• The resort has a total of 9 lifts.
• 120 trails – 20% beginner, 35% intermediate, 25% advanced, and 20% expert.
• Average annual snowfall is 430 inches.

Where to Rent Gear at Wolf Creek

Wolf Creek Ski Area offers gear rental for all of your resort activities right on the mountain.  Alternatively, pick up your gear in Pagosa Springs, CO on your way to the resort!

Brighton Resort, Utah

Brighton Ski Resort rose to fame as Utah’s first skiing hub. Over the years, it has become a favorite of adventurous locals who enjoy its natural freestyle hits, terrain parks, and deep layers of Utah dry snow. Thanks to its good value skiing and distinct family friendly atmosphere, Brighton has become a big hit with families, couples and singles alike. Brighton boasts that all of it’s terrain can be reached by high speed quads, making it easily accessible for all.  Furthermore, the inexpensive lift tickets and gear rental make it a budget-friendly destination. Brighton’s base doesn’t have as many lodging and dining options as other bigger resorts, but there are several lodges to choose from.  Molly Green’s low key atmosphere and scenic views from the unique A-frame structure make it a perfect spot to enjoy après ski after you’ve tackled Brighton’s fantastic terrain.  Another option is to stay in Park City or Salt Lake City and make Brighton a day trip.

Getting to Brighton

The closest airport to Brighton is Salt Lake City Airport, just 39 miles away. From there you can rent a car for the short drive, or take a shuttle.  Many visitors are able to ski the same day they fly in!

Brighton Resort Mountain Stats 

• 1050 acres of skiable terrain and a 1875 vertical lift.
• Total of 66 trails – 21% beginner, 39% intermediate, 25% advanced, 15% expert.
• Average annual snowfall is 500 inches.

Where to Rent Gear at Brighton

Brighton offers gear rental for all your resort activities right on the mountain.  Or save some money and rent from our curated best of the best outfitters in Salt Lake City or Park City on your way up to the resort!

Grand Targhee Ski Resort, Wyoming

Tucked on the quieter western side of the Tetons in Wyoming, Grand Targhee is a hidden gem in the shadow of its more famous neighbor. With it’s incredible annual snowfall of 500 inches, backcountry skiing and powder stashes that last all day, the resort caters to those longing for exhilarating, deep snow skiing. Grand Targhee may get fewer visitors than the more popular Jackson Hole, but that just makes its epic powder and grand scenery even more enjoyable.  Skiing the Teton Vista Traverse, Lost Groomer, and Painted Pony gives visitors a grand, panoramic view of the Grand’s stunning landscapes. Grand Targhee is also far easier on the budget with inexpensive lodging in the base village and lower lift ticket prices than Jackson Hole.  The base village is small but still has several great options for après ski and dining. Affordable and family friendly, Grand Targhee should definitely be on everyone’s bucket list.

Getting to Grand Targhee

To get to Grand Targhee, book a flight to Jackson Hole Airport and rent a car for the 1.5 hour drive across the pass.

Grand Targhee Ski Resort Mountain Stats

• Grand Targhee has 2602 skiable terrain, and 2270 feet vertical lift.
• The resort is serviced by 5 lifts.
• It has a total of 95 runs – 33% beginner, 37% intermediate, 25% advanced, and 5% expert.
• Average annual snowfall is 500 inches.

Where to Rent Gear at Grand Targhee

Grand Targhee offers gear rental for all of your resort activities right on the mountain!

Map of the Best Uncrowded Ski Resorts

Finding Solitude at the Best Uncrowded Ski Resorts

If you’re looking to escape the crowds and enjoy world-class skiing, these nine underrated ski resorts offer the perfect blend of uncrowded slopes, stunning scenery, and diverse terrain. From the legendary powder and steeps of Big Sky and Telluride to the family-friendly vibes of Brighton and Grand Targhee, each destination brings its unique charm. Whether it’s exploring the serene beauty of Schweitzer and Whitefish, embracing the historical allure of Sun Valley, or carving through the deep snow at Wolf Creek and Crested Butte, these resorts cater to all levels of skiers and snowboarders. With fewer lift lines, breathtaking backdrops, and excellent amenities, these hidden gems are the ultimate ski destinations for those seeking solitude and adventure.

Ski Trip Resources

For more ski inspiration, check out our Best Beginner Ski Resorts compilation, and our Best Ski Resorts for Families article. Before you head out for your ski trip, find out What to Wear Skiing + Trip Packing Checklist!

For the ultimate ski road trip, check out our list of 21 ski resorts that allow overnight RV camping!

The post 9 Best Uncrowded Ski Resorts for 2026 appeared first on TripOutside.

If you’re searching for the best things to do on the east side of Puerto Rico, this coastal region delivers some of the island’s most iconic outdoor experiences in one tight, easy-to-navigate zone. From hiking rainforest trails in El Yunque National Forest to kayaking glowing bioluminescent bays and snorkeling clear coastal reefs, the east coast of Puerto Rico packs a huge amount of adventure into a relatively small area – making it ideal for travelers who want variety without constant long drives.

Why Visit Puerto Rico’s East Coast

Puerto Rico’s eastern region is where rainforest ridgelines drop straight into turquoise water – a wild mix of jungle, reefs, beaches, and island chains. From the shores of Fajardo and Las Croabas, you’re just a short boat ride from the white-sand cays of Icacos, Palomino, Vieques, Culebra, and tiny Culebrita – all known for crystal-clear water and snorkeling that feels unreal. This side of the island is famous for its glowing bio bays, sandbar hangouts, island-hopping boat days, and reefs where sea turtles just casually cruise by. If you’re stoked to get on (or under) the water, this is the place to send it.

In this guide to Puerto Rico’s east coast, we’ll help you plan your activities to this adventure-packed corner of the island. You can hike misty jungle trails in the morning, snorkel calm Caribbean water by midday, and paddle through bioluminescent mangroves after dark – all within an hour of each other. With easy access from San Juan, reliable tour infrastructure, and launch points to island escapes like Culebra and Vieques, the east coast is perfect for first-time visitors and repeat travelers alike. It’s adventurous without being overwhelming, wild without being hard to reach, and one of the best regions on the island for eco-friendly, human-powered exploration.

Best Time to Visit Puerto Rico’s East Coast

You can visit Puerto Rico’s east coast year-round, but peak adventure season runs December–August. It’s sunny, warm, and perfect for snorkeling visibility and island days. September–November is hurricane season, but tours still run whenever conditions are safe. During this time, expect warm temps (mid-80s°F / ~29°C) and quick rainforest showers that blow through fast. No matter when you come, the east coast is prime for mixing beach time, island boat trips, and rainforest detours – all within an easy drive from San Juan.

Getting to the East Coast of Puerto Rico

Most flights land in the capital of San Juan, and getting from San Juan to Puerto Rico’s east coast is easy and low-stress, making it a perfect add-on to a city stay. The east coast hubs like Fajardo, Luquillo, and Ceiba are about a 45- to 60-minute drive, and renting a car is the best move if you want flexibility for beaches, rainforest trailheads, and early bio bay tours. The drive itself is mellow and scenic, passing coastal views and jungle-covered foothills, with well-maintained highways the whole way. Public transportation is limited once you leave San Juan, so having your own wheels lets you link up snorkeling, El Yunque hikes, and nighttime paddles without feeling rushed.

Alternatively, taking a private shuttle from San Juan to Fajardo is an easy, stress-free option that allows you to skip parking and navigation, gets you straight to Fajardo or the Ceiba Ferry Terminal, and lets you fully relax before an early start or late-night bio bay adventure.

El Yunque – The Rainforest Crown of Puerto Rico

El Yunque National Forest sits on Puerto Rico’s east side and is one of the island’s most iconic outdoor playgrounds. As the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System, it’s packed with lush jungle trails, waterfalls, rivers, and misty mountain views, all just 45 minutes from San Juan. It’s located just inland from Luqillo and Fajardo, so you can hike through cloud forest terrain in the morning and be snorkeling or beach lounging by the afternoon. With well-maintained trails, rich wildlife (hello coquí frogs), and easy access from the coast, El Yunque is a must-do if rainforest hikes and jungle vibes are on your Puerto Rico hit list. Popular stops include Coca Falls and the Yokahú Tower — just expect to get wet, because this place racks up serious rainfall.

Our Top Picks for El Yunque Adventures

• Combo Tours with Bio Bay Kayaking in Fajardo: Hike El Yunque, then cap the day with a glowing paddle through the Fajardo Bio Bay.
• Private Hiking Tours in El Yunque: Perfect for families and groups of friends who want an in depth tour of the rainforest!
• Transportation Included Options: Visiting for the day? Check out these stress-free trips from San Juan to El Yunque’s best viewpoints and waterfalls.
• Small Group Guided Hiking Adventures in El Yunque: Ideal for meeting fellow adventurers while exploring the rainforest.
• Twilight El Yunque Rainforest Guided Hike: A unique adventure where you hike out to the river at sunset and see the forest come alive with nocturnal creatures.

Fajardo – Puerto Rico’s Island-Hopping Gateway

Known for its calm, turquoise water and well-equipped marina, Fajardo is the jumping-off spot for snorkeling trips, island hops to Icacos, Palomino and more, and night paddles into the bioluminescent bay at Laguna Grande. It sits right on the edge of El Yunque National Forest, making it simple to check out waterfall hikes, the bio bay, and ocean time without long drives. If you want maximum adventure with minimal logistics, Fajardo is pure east coast beta. It’s a hub for snorkel trips, dive boats, and waterfall missions – a solid base for any adventure-packed trip.

Our Picks for Fajardo Adventures

• Fajardo Snorkeling Tours: Explore local reefs or head to the offshore islands — with options from private to group tours. Snorkeling trips are typically beginner-friendly and often head to shallow reefs, where you can spot tropical fish, rays, and the occasional sea turtle.
• Fajardo Scuba Diving Tours: For certified divers, or those looking to learn, you can dive Culebra, Vieques, Icacos, or Fajardo’s local sites – exploring healthy reefs with solid visibility and relaxed conditions.
• Las Tinajas & Charco Frio Waterfalls Guided Adventure: Swim, rope-swing, and slide through two epic waterfall spots on El Yunque’s outskirts.

Las Croabas – Home of the Famous Bioluminescent Bay

Las Croabas is a small harbor village in Fajardo that is known for some of Puerto Rico’s most memorable water adventures. It’s the launch point for kayaking tours into Laguna Grande, where mangrove channels lead to the glowing bioluminescent bay after dark. By day, Las Croabas is calm and low-key, with easy marina access, coastal views, and a handful of local food spots – perfect for stacking snorkeling, paddling, and sunset hangs before or after a bio bay tour. It’s also the launching point for Icacos snorkel trips and the Las Cabezas de San Juan Marine Reserve.

Our Picks for Las Croabas Adventures

• Marine Biologist Guided Bio Bay Kayak Tour: Paddle with an interpretive marine biologist for a deeper look at the bio bay.
• Fajardo Bio Bay Kayaking Tour with San Juan Transport: Experience the magic of the bio bay on a day trip from San Juan, including transportation!
• Full Moon Kayaking Adventure Puerto Rico: Explore the mangrove forests at night, lit up by the full moon!
• Snorkeling Rentals, Lessons, and Tours in Las Cabezas: Rent gear, take a lesson, or join a guided snorkel in the reserve.
• Las Cabezas Kayak Rentals & Paddleboarding Rentals: Rent a kayak or SUP in Laz Cabezas Nature Reserve, and explore the reserve on your own time!

Luquillo – Puerto Rico’s Golden Beach Town

Luquillo is a super common stop on El Yunque and Bio Bay trip routes, known for its golden beach, food kiosks, and La Pared — one of the best beginner surf spots on the island. It’s also a prime spot to catch consistent waves, practice your pop-up, and progress from your first ride to more confident turns.

Our Picks for Luquillo Adventures

• Group Surf Lessons – La Pared Beach: This is a great spot to learn how to surf with a sandy bottom providing a safer and more forgiving surface.
• Surf Lessons in Luquillo – Private & Group Options: One of the safest surf spots on the island, with experienced instructors ready to get you standing and stoked.
• Puerto Rico Rainforest Waterslides & Luquillo Beach Adventure: Swim natural rock slides near El Yunque, then hang at Luquillo Beach for lunch.
• El Yunque Rainforest + Bio Bay + Luquillo Beach Trio Tour: A stacked triple-stop tour that hits El Yunque, the Fajardo Bio Bay, and the famous Luquillo kiosks.

Eastern Islands – Puerto Rico’s Offshore Playground

Cayo Icacos (Icacos Island)

Icacos is one of the closest islands off Las Croabas/Fajardo/Ceiba for snorkeling and scuba diving, often paired with Isla Palomino. This uninhabited cay is beloved for its white-sand beaches and clear water, and is accessible only by boat — it’s the largest cay in the La Cordillera Nature Reserve. Check out all Icacos tours here! Most trips depart from Marina Puerto Del Rey or Roosevelt Roads Marina and are available year-round.

Our Picks for Icacos Adventures

• Private Icacos Snorkeling and Hiking Excursion: Snorkel Icacos’ reefs and hike to a panoramic viewpoint — a rad combo adventure for small groups.
• Private Ceiba Scuba Dive & Snorkel Charter: Build your own custom itinerary to explore Icacos and nearby cays by scuba or snorkel.
• Private Icacos Snorkeling Adventures: Charter your own snorkel boat and tailor the session to your crew’s vibe.
• Morning Icacos & Fajardo Snorkeling Boat Tour: A fun group morning tour hitting Icacos and top Fajardo reef spots.
• Palomino Island Private Night Snorkeling Experience: A unique night snorkeling adventure on the island right next to Icacos.

Culebra

Located 17 miles (27 km) off Puerto Rico’s east coast, Culebra is reachable by ferry or boat and is perfect for an overnight trip or quick island-hopping escape. The island feels a world away, known for unreal water clarity, protected reefs, and a slow, salty pace of life. It’s home to Flamenco Beach – often ranked among the best in the world – and some of the Puerto Rico’s best snorkeling, with shallow reefs, sea turtles, rays, and colorful fish just offshore. Because much of Culebra is protected land and marine reserve, development is limited, which keeps things wild and low-key. You can stay right on the island in small hotels, guesthouses, and vacation rentals, making it easy to slow down and experience early-morning beaches and quiet evenings after day-trippers leave.

Our Picks for Culebra Adventures

• Private Culebra Scuba Diving Adventures: Departing from Fajardo / Ceiba, scuba diving options for both beginners and certified divers – explore the colorful reefs of Culebra.
• Private Culebra Snorkeling Adventures: This option is great for those who are nervous to go snorkeling for the first time or large groups of friends and family wanting the boat to themselves!
• Tamarindo Beach Snorkeling Tour or Rentals: Home to incredible wildlife like green sea turtles, parrotfish, sergeant majors, and spiny lobsters!
• Melones Beach Snorkeling/Kayaking Tours or Discover Scuba Diving: Explore a coral restoration site with everything from branching corals to massive brain corals.
• Snorkeling & Kayaking Trip with Ferry Tickets Included: Take the ferry, meet your guide on Culebra, snorkel Tamarindo, and search for green turtles.
• Culebrita Five Hour Snorkeling Tour: Visit the untouched island of Culebrita, off the coast of Culebra — home to thriving marine life and epic biodiversity.

Vieques

Located 8 miles (13 km) east of Puerto Rico, Vieques is about 20 miles long and known for quiet beaches, great snorkeling, bikeable roads, and Mosquito Bay – the brightest bioluminescent bay on Earth. It’s an awesome place to post up for a few days. You can take a day trip to the island, or stay right on the island in small hotels and vacation rentals, which makes it easy to explore beyond the day-trip rush and soak up quiet mornings and star-filled nights.

Our Picks for Vieques Adventures

• Vieques Island from San Juan: This day trip from San Juan includes roundtrip transportation, ferry tickets, beach time at Esperanza or Sunbay, dinner on the Malecón, and a guided Mosquito Bay experience.
• Mosquito Bio Bay Kayaking with Glass Bottom or Normal Kayak: Discover the brightest bioluminescent bay in the world – Mosquito Bay!  This tour includes transportation to the bio bay from the town of Esperanza on Vieques.
• Snorkeling in Vieques: Choose a meet-on-island option for overnight stays, or take a one-day snorkel trip by boat from Ceiba. Enjoy Vieques’ clear waters, healthy reefs, and frequent sightings of sea turtles and tropical fish, often right off quiet beaches with minimal crowds.
• Punta Arenas Snorkeling: Explore a remote but kid-friendly snorkeling spot on the western tip of Vieques!
• Vieques Scuba Diving: Personalized dive charters for all levels — from first-timers to advanced divers. Explore deeper with certified and discover scuba dives.
• Vieques Biking: Rent bikes or join guided tours to explore the wildlife refuge, beaches, and hidden corners of the island.

My Experience Visiting Vieques & Mosquito Bay

Vieques is hands down one of the most memorable places I’ve ever traveled – and that’s saying a lot. We parked our rental car on the main island, took the ferry over, and stayed the night in Esperanza. Even just that transition – leaving Puerto Rico’s main island behind and stepping onto Vieques – felt like slowing the world down a notch.

That evening, we caught an unreal sunset right along the Esperanza waterfront before heading out for our bioluminescent bay kayaking tour. I’ve done a lot of unique outdoor experiences over the years, but paddling Mosquito Bay still stands out as one of the most incredible things I’ve ever experienced in my entire life. We were in tandem kayaks, and were the only group out on that spot in the lagoon, making it incredibly peaceful. Every paddle stroke lit up the water in bright electric blue — swirling around us like something straight out of a Disney movie. It felt literally like we were in Moana, with the water swirling blue all around us.

It was a truly rare experience being able to see the brightest bio bay in the world in person like that. I didn’t get any good photos or videos — it was 2020, and I had an Iphone 6 so I just couldn’t capture it — but honestly, it’s one of those moments that lives better in memory anyway.

The next morning, we woke up early, and with our whole little hostel crew walked over to Playa Negra together for sunrise before heading back. The beach is known for its magnetic black sand, and it was a cool, low-key way to wind down after the night before — just standing around, talking, laughing, and taking it all in. If you’re debating whether Vieques is worth the extra logistics — ferry schedules, overnight stay, planning — I can say without hesitation that it absolutely is.

Why Visit Puerto Rico’s East Coast

Puerto Rico’s east coast is all about variety with less crowds – rainforest hikes in El Yunque National Forest, calm-water snorkeling and diving out of Fajardo and the eastern islands, glowing night paddles in bioluminescent bays, and island escapes to Culebra and Vieques – all within a short drive or ferry ride. Whether you’re knocking off adventures or slowing things down with beach time and early mornings, this side of the island makes it easy to plan a trip that feels full, intentional, and connected to the landscape. Explore thoughtfully, choose human-powered experiences, and you’ll leave salty, tired in the best way, and already scheming your return.

The post Best Things To Do On Puerto Rico’s East Coast appeared first on TripOutside.

If you’re looking for the best things to do in San Juan and the metro area, Puerto Rico’s capital delivers a mix of historic streets, coastal adventures, and easy-access outdoor experiences right in the city.

Area Covered: San Juan, Old San Juan, Condado Lagoon, Isla Verde, Bayamón, Caguas

The San Juan Metro Region is Puerto Rico’s hub — the place where most trips begin, and where you can slip between historic cobblestone streets, surf breaks, mangrove lagoons, and reefs without ever leaving the city limits. Even if you’re planning to explore all six regions, San Juan is a solid home base because it gives you easy access to both culture and nature.

The best time to visit San Juan is during the dry season (December–April), when trade winds keep the weather comfortable and mornings stay reliably clear. May–November brings short afternoon showers, but mornings are usually calm — great for snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, or biking around Old San Juan. Although Spanish is the main language of the island, English is widely spoken in the metro area, and the city is walkable with plenty of rideshare options. Many tours also include transportation, so you can explore the island without renting a car.

As the central hub of the island, the San Juan Metro Region is your gateway to the 6 regions of Puerto Rico. If you want to blend urban exploring with human-powered adventures, this region has some of the easiest and most accessible activities in Puerto Rico.

Inside San Juan – City Vibes Meet Ocean Adventures

San Juan Snorkeling

Just off the shoreline, San Juan has a surprisingly lively reef system perfect for snorkeling adventures, shaped by volcanic rock shelves, coral heads, and patches of seagrass. At sites like Escambrón Marine Park and the cove near the Caribe Hilton, you can spot parrotfish, angelfish, damselfish, porcupinefish, eagle rays, sea urchins, squid, and occasionally manatees grazing in the seagrass beds. Because these spots are protected from large surf, they’re great for beginners and anyone who wants an easy swim with clear water and plenty of marine life.

Our Picks for Snorkeling Adventures in San Juan

• Escambron Marine Park Snorkel Tour: Explore shallow reefs and rock channels with a guide who knows exactly where the turtles and schools of fish like to hang out.
• LED Night Snorkeling: Armed with high-powered lights, slip into Escambrón after dark and watch octopus, lobster, and eels come alive.
• Caribe Hotel Snorkeling Tour: A shore-entry snorkel with easy access and consistent visibility, great for spotting turtles and juvenile reef fish.

San Juan Scuba Diving

San Juan’s shore diving is perfect for beginners but still interesting for certified divers. The Caribe Hilton and Escambrón house shallow reef fingers, artificial structures, and coral patches where you’ll find green sea turtles, southern stingrays, eels, octopus, and schools of surgeonfish. Conditions are usually calm, making this one of the easiest spots in Puerto Rico to try scuba for the first time.

Our Picks for Scuba Diving Adventures in San Juan

• Dive San Juan at Caribe Hilton: A guided shore dive ideal for certified divers wanting a relaxed but wildlife-rich site.
• Discover Scuba Diving at Caribe: No certification needed — learn onshore and then dive the sheltered reef with a professional.
• Try Scuba Diving at Escambron: A great intro to diving in a designated marine park.

Kiteboarding in San Juan

San Juan’s coastline — especially Isla Verde and Ocean Park — gets steady trade winds almost year-round. Soft sand, shallow entry, and predictable wind make this one of the best urban kiteboarding spots in the Caribbean. You’ll often see a mix of beginners taking lessons and advanced riders cruising downwind or boosting over the chop.

Our Picks for Kiteboarding Adventures in San Juan

• Take a Kiteboarding Lesson in San Juan: Choose from 3-hour private or semi-private lessons or go all-in with a 4-day or 5-day ultimate “kitecation” and master the thrill of kiteboarding along San Juan’s sunny shores!
• Or take up the newest wing sport and learn to Wing Surf, Hydrofoil, or Both: Try your hand at wing surfing, hydrofoiling, or combine both in one session and ride the waves like a pro on San Juan’s turquoise waters!

Old San Juan – Historical Forts and Cobblestone Streets

Viejo San Juan Biking

Biking is one of the easiest ways to cover Old San Juan and its massive coastal fortifications. You can cruise past Castillo San Felipe del Morro and Castillo San Cristóbal, stop at scenic overlooks above the Atlantic, circle the calm waters of Condado Lagoon, and tuck into side streets lined with pastel buildings and blue cobblestones.

Our Picks for Biking Adventures in Viejo San Juan

• Rent a Bike: Cruise through San Juan for an hour, 3 hours, or the full day and take in the city and waterfront at your own speed.
• Take a Guided Bicycle Tour: Pedal through Old San Juan’s cobblestone streets, or go further to ride past the forts and along the sparkling waters of Condado Lagoon.

Calm Waters of Condado Lagoon – Perfect for Kayaking, SUP, and Snorkeling

Condado Lagoon Kayaking

Condado Lagoon is one of the calmest, easiest paddling spots in Puerto Rico, perfect for beginners but fun enough for seasoned adventurers. Rent a kayak on the lagoon and explore at your own pace, gliding over glassy water with views of the San Juan skyline, mangrove forests, and the occasional sea turtle cruising below. Guided tours add extra stoke with local insight into the lagoon’s ecosystem and hidden corners you might miss on your own. If you’re looking for something extra spicy, check out the night LED kayaking tours — the water glows beneath you as you paddle, turning the lagoon into a neon playground after dark.

Our Picks for Paddling Adventures in Condado Lagoon

• Combine kayaking or SUP with snorkeling in Condado Lagoon on this Guided Snorkeling Tour & Kayak / SUP. Keep an eye out for the West Indian manatee, starfish, sea cucumbers, needlefish, small schooling fish, sergeant majors, mojarras, juvenile snapper, and perhaps a Southern stingray resting on the sandy bottom!
• Pedal the lagoon at night on a waterbike on this guided nighttime tour, a one-of-a-kind way to experience San Juan’s coast after dark!
• See the lagoon in a different way on this daytime tour on a chiliboat, a catamaran-style waterbike. This unique aquatic adventure promises light exercise a scenic city experience and the opportunity to observe the wildlife of the lagoon.

Condado Lagoon Paddleboarding

Paddleboarding in Condado Lagoon is the perfect blend of chill and adventure — calm water, wide-open space, and just enough balance to keep things interesting. Rent an SUP to cruise past mangroves, float above schools of reef fish, and take in golden-hour views of the city. Guided SUP tours help you sharpen your technique and show you the lagoon’s best wildlife-viewing spots, including manatees that sometimes drift through the water like slow-moving submarines. For an unforgettable twist, try a sunset or night LED paddle tour, where your board lights up the water beneath you as you glide across the lagoon.

Our Picks for Paddleboarding Adventures in Condado Lagoon

• Condado Lagoon Paddleboard Rentals let you explore the lagoon on your own time.
• Join a Guided Snorkeling Tour & Kayak / SUP for a unique San Juan experience passing historic landmarks, paddling into the lagoon, swimming off nearby beaches, and snorkeling calm, crystal-clear water teeming with fish and starfish.

Condado Lagoon Snorkeling

Condado Lagoon is a surprisingly exciting spot for snorkeling right inside San Juan — a calm, protected estuary where beginners can explore without waves or currents. Rent snorkel gear to wander the shallow reefs on your own, keeping an eye out for starfish, reef fish, and the occasional manatee passing through. Guided snorkeling tours take things up a notch with expert-led routes through the lagoon’s best visibility pockets and marine nursery areas, making it perfect for first-timers or anyone wanting to learn more about the ecosystem.

Our Picks for Snorkeling Adventures in Condado Lagoon

• Condado Lagoon Guided Snorkeling Tour
• Condado Lagoon Guided Snorkeling Tour & Kayak / SUP

Isla Verde – Get your stoke on these waves

San Juan Surfing at Isla Verde

Isla Verde is a long stretch (3 miles) of soft sand with several surf spots. Pine Grove is the hot spot: a mellow, sandy-bottom break ideal for beginners, with deeper water farther out for more advanced riders. The beach is lined with parks and hotels, so it’s easy to get lessons, rentals, and post-surf snacks in one place.

Our Picks for Isla Verde Surfing Adventures in San Juan

• Private & Group Surf Lessons: All ages are welcome for these surf lessons where you will learn the basics, build confidence, and have a blast catching your first waves!
• Surfboard Rentals at Isla Verde: Grab a board and paddle out for more practice or chase bigger sets beyond Pine Grove.

Bayamón – Trails, Rivers, and Waterfalls

San Juan Hiking in the Bayamon Region

Bayamón is surprisingly wild considering how close it is to San Juan – just north of the city. One of the main draws is hiking to waterfalls like Charco Prieto (Poza Preita), a dramatic 130-foot waterfall reached by a muddy, rooty jungle trail. It’s only about 45 minutes from the city but feels completely remote — perfect if you want a waterfall adventure without heading deep into the mountains.

Our Picks for Hiking Adventures Near San Juan in Bayamón

• Charco Preito Waterfall Hike: A guided trek to one of the most impressive falls near San Juan, plus a stop at a local roadside eatery.
• Bayamón Waterfall Adventure: With an optional transportation add-on, you can visit the off-the-beaten-path trail to spend 40 to 60 minutes hiking to an amazing waterfall.

Caguas – The Heart of Puerto Rico

Hiking in Caguas

Caguas sits in a valley between the Sierra de Cayey and Sierra de Luquillo ranges, giving it cooler air, farmland, and access to lesser-known hiking trails. Guided hikes often include cultural stops — like coffee farms tucked into the foothills — and visits to waterfalls hidden on private land.

Our Picks for Hiking Adventures in Caguas

• Central Mountain Range Exclusive Nature Reserve Guided Hiking Tour: Start with a local coffee stop, then hike through an exclusive mountain reserve to a 150-foot cascade with time to swim in its natural pool.
• Salto de Pilar Central Mountains Hike & Cliff Jump Challenge: Perfect for thrill seekers, take on the cliff-jump challenge after a hike through the lush rainforest, with smaller jump options at each spot.
• El Rincon de Chencho Waterfall Guided Hike: With transportation included, this hike brings you to a hidden waterfall and natural swimming pool on private land!

Caguas Rock Climbing & Rappelling

Caguas’s terrain around El Salto and the Carite Forest includes deep river canyons and plunging waterfalls, making it a top spot for certified-guide climbing and rappelling. Guided tours allow you to dive into Puerto Rico’s rainforest with river trekking, an 80-foot waterfall rappel, and five epic ziplines soaring above the jungle canopy. Cool off in natural pools, learn about local Taino and sugarcane history, then wrap it all up with a home-cooked Puerto Rican meal hosted by a local family.

Our Picks for Rock Climbing & Rappelling Adventures in Caguas

• El Salto Waterfall Adventure Tour – Full Day: Start with a trek through the rainforest followed by a rappelling adventure down an 80 foot waterfall!

Activities with Transportation from San Juan

San Juan is one of the best places to stay if looking to take tours with transportation included or options to add it on. Many tours to famous locations such as El Yunque, Fajardo Bio Bay, and launching areas of snorkeling trips to the nearby cays include transportation from San Juan!

Our Picks for San Juan Adventures with Transportation Included

• Half Day La Coca Falls & Observation Tower El Yunque Hiking Tour: Explore the highlights of El Yunque on a half-day guided hike, with round-trip transportation from San Juan included.
• Afternoon Vieques Beach & Bio Bay From San Juan: Enjoy round-trip transport from San Juan and a scheduled ferry to Vieques, where you’ll explore the island’s beaches before visiting Mosquito Bay—the brightest bioluminescent bay in the world.
• Bioluminescent Bay Kayak Tour with Transportation from San Juan: Paddle through the glowing waters of Laguna Grande on this bioluminescent kayak experience, complete with transportation from San Juan.
• Private Icacos & Palomino Island Snorkel Charter: Take a private snorkel charter with up to three stops around Icacos and Palomino Islands—transportation from San Juan included.
• Full Day Puerto Rico Adventure – El Yunque, Bio Bay, River Swimming, Beach Visits: A full-day guided experience featuring Piñones, El Yunque, Luquillo Beach, river swimming, and the Laguna Grande Bio Bay.
• Utuado Canyon, Waterfall, & River Adventure – Transport Included: Head into Puerto Rico’s central mountains for a guided river trek through canyons, natural pools, and waterfalls.
• Private Transportation Services: Can’t find a tour with transportation included? Book private transport and reach any adventure on your list.

My Time Exploring San Juan

On my Puerto Rico adventure, I was only in San Juan for two days and one night, but it ended up being one of the most memorable parts of my time in Puerto Rico. I stayed at a hostel and somehow, almost instantly, ended up with a huge group of people who felt like lifelong friends. We didn’t have a plan — we just walked. A lot. We tagged along to Escambrón Beach one afternoon, where the waves were too big to really swim, so we laid in the sun, laughed, and soaked it in — which felt especially good coming from March in Connecticut.

Most of what I remember from San Juan isn’t a checklist of attractions, but the feeling of exploring it by foot. Walking past colorful houses, seeing roads completely overtaken by tropical plants that felt more like a rainforest than a city, stumbling on a stairway mural I never expected to find, and wandering past the Capitol building and El Morro — especially at night when the fort is lit up and feels massive and quiet all at once. We just kept walking, letting the city unfold naturally.

That experience is why I always say San Juan doesn’t need to be overplanned. You could move through it faster by bike — and honestly, I wish I had — but there’s something special about slowing down and letting the city surprise you. If you explore San Juan actively and give yourself room for the unplanned moments, it has a way of turning strangers into friends and short visits into lasting memories.

The post Best Things To Do in San Juan, Puerto Rico appeared first on TripOutside.

Winter in America’s National Parks feels like an entirely different world. Trails that are crowded in summer become hushed and peaceful under a blanket of snow. Wildlife is easier to spot against a white backdrop. Steam rises from rivers and geyser basins. Fresh snowfall covers the landscape in light-reflecting sparkle.

After visiting multiple U.S. National Parks in winter – from snowshoeing beneath the jagged Tetons to exploring frozen alpine lakes in Rocky Mountain National Park – we’ve found the off-season offers the most intimate way to experience these landscapes. If you’re looking for solitude, beauty, and slow and intentional exploration, the colder months are one of the most rewarding times to go.

Winter Travel Note: Winter conditions change fast in national parks. Road closures, avalanche risk, and weather can affect access. Always check official park updates and consider guided tours for safe, responsible winter travel.

Grand Teton National Park – Snowshoeing & Cross-Country Skiing

Snowshoeing tours in Grand Teton National Park give you front-row access to the stillness and stunning winter landscapes that define the season in the Park. If you’ve ever passed beneath the Tetons, you know the iconic view of the peaks towering above, but seeing them fully blanketed in snow with white, twinkling meadows all around is a completely different experience.

Within the park, forested trails weave through cottonwoods and open up into hidden groves and meadows. You move quietly through the snow while looking for moose, fox, elk, or the occasional trumpeter swan. Guided half day and full day snowshoe adventures led by expert local naturalists are fantastic options for families, beginners and those with experience. As you explore the winter backcountry, your guide will share insights about the park’s winter ecology, geology, and animal tracking. For a more active adventure at a moderate to aerobic pace, these customized private snowshoe tours will raise your heart rate while you learn about animal tracking.

For a winter experience that goes beyond a standard snowshoe outing, we highly recommend a Wildlife Safari and Snowshoe Tour with Igloo Lunch or Dinner. One of the most unique winter adventures offered in the Tetons, these adventures combine wildlife viewing, snowshoeing, and a fireside meal (lunch or dinner) at a private winter camp on a local ranch. The tour includes snowshoeing through peaceful winter terrain in Grand Teton National Park, looking for elk, moose, raptors and other wildlife in the snowy valley, then settling in for a delicious meal in a glowing igloo shelter beneath the Tetons. It’s an intimate, private outing perfect for families, couples, or anyone wanting an unforgettable winter experience in Grand Teton National Park.

If you prefer to explore on skis, Grand Teton is also home to an exceptional 14-mile Nordic trail network. These custom Grand Teton National Park cross-country ski tours are offered for every type of group and ability level! A half-day cross-country ski tour is ideal for first-time visitors, while a private full-day cross-country ski tour lets you customize the pacing, mileage, and destinations based on interest.

Expert Guide Insight: Many winter snowshoe tours here are led by local naturalists with years of experience tracking wildlife in deep snow – knowing where moose bed down, where elk migrate, and how wind scours the valleys. The best conditions are typically January–March, when snow coverage is reliable and wildlife movement is easiest to spot.

Yellowstone National Park in Winter

Yellowstone in winter is quiet, wild, and otherworldly. Geysers send plumes of steam into icy air, bison stand frosted in hoarfrost, and rivers carve warm channels through snowbanks. Winter access in Yellowstone is limited, which makes guided travel especially valuable. Entering via Gardiner, Montana allows for legally permitted winter access without oversnow vehicles, making snowshoeing one of the safest and quietest ways to explore the park in winter.

Yellowstone winter tours guided by local experts allow you to experience this landscape in these quiet months, taking in the views and looking for wildlife while enjoying crowd-free trails. Guided adventures give you the chance to learn about winter ecology, track animals through fresh snow, and explore remote terrain with an expert. Gardiner, Montana is one of the few year-round access points allowing for guided snowshoe tours into the park, making winter travel surprisingly accessible.

Pro Tip: Some of the best Yellowstone winter tours are privately guided tours. With hotel pickup and drop-off, an itinerary tailored to you and your group, and options for all ages, private tours make for a seamless experience. Plus, traveling with a smaller group increases your chance of spotting wildlife, which is one of the best parts of exploring Yellowstone in winter!

Big Sky (Northern Yellowstone) Snowshoeing Tours in Winter

If you’re staying farther north, you don’t have to make the long drive to experience Yellowstone. This private Big Sky snowshoeing tour allows your group to explore the quieter corners of Yellowstone’s northern boundary, including forested drainages, sweeping meadows, and the wildlife-rich Gallatin River Canyon. The tour takes place within the Yellowstone National Park boundary, but no park pass is required. With a private guide, the pace is entirely your own, making it perfect for families, beginners, and travelers looking for an accessible snowshoe adventure that explores a lesser-traveled side of Yellowstone.

These tours operate within permitted areas of the Yellowstone boundary, following National Park Service winter-use regulations – so travelers can explore confidently without navigating access rules themselves.

Glacier National Park Winter Activities

Visiting Glacier National Park in winter offers big-mountain drama without the crowds. Although sections of the park are closed in the off-season, we’ve found that visiting in the quieter months opens up access to places that you wouldn’t normally be able to enjoy thoroughly. Lake McDonald, which is normally wall-to-wall cars and people, feels like it’s your personal oasis, while popular hikes like Avalanche Lake see a fraction of the people. Snow settles deep in cedar forests, moose move across the alpine wonderland, and the quiet is almost absolute.

Snowshoeing in Glacier National Park is ideal for those who want space, reflection, and slow travel. Your guide can tailor the route to wildlife activity, weather, and your preferred level of adventure. Routes are selected based on snowpack stability, recent avalanche activity, and daily weather—making guided trips especially valuable in Glacier’s deep-snow winters.

Glacier Park Snowshoe & Cross Country Ski Spots

There are many fantastic areas in Glacier to explore in winter by snowshoe or on cross-country skis. Whether you choose a private snowshoeing tour or a guided cross-country ski tour in Glacier National Park your guide can customize the tour based on your preferred scenery, wildlife sightings, or level of adventure, making each outing unique. These 3.5–5 hour outings are beginner-friendly, include all gear, hot drinks, lunch, and even national park entry, making them an effortless way to explore Glacier’s snowy landscape. With hotel pickup available from Whitefish, Kalispell, and Columbia Falls, plus small group sizes and flexible routes based on conditions, it’s a relaxed, scenic, and super accessible winter adventure for families, couples, and first-timers looking to experience Glacier in its most serene season.

Here are some of the spots you may visit on a guided tour. Local guides choose routes that offer scenic terrain while avoiding known avalanche paths, steep start zones, and complex navigation.

• Autumn Creek (Marias Pass) – Located on Glacier’s southern border at Marias Pass, this snowshoe route rolls through wide-open meadows tucked beneath the Continental Divide. It’s mellow, scenic terrain with dramatic ridgelines and killer photography light, especially at sunrise and sunset. A great low-avalanche-risk zone for beginners and casual explorers.
• Fish Creek & Rocky Point – On the west side of Glacier near the Fish Creek Campground, this gentle trail winds through quiet forest to Rocky Point overlooking Lake McDonald. It’s a super chill snowshoe with big lake views toward Stanton Mountain and the Livingston Range. Perfect for beginners, families, and anyone wanting scenery without heavy climbing.
• McDonald Creek (Going-to-the-Sun Road) – This route follows McDonald Creek just east of Apgar along the closed winter section of Going-to-the-Sun Road. You get serene winter vibes, turquoise creek pools, and tons of wildlife tracks along mostly flat terrain. It’s one of the easiest and most peaceful mid-winter outings in the park.
• Snyder Basin – Starting near Lake McDonald Lodge on the west side, the trail climbs steadily into Snyder Basin. It weaves through old-growth forest before opening to vistas of the McDonald Valley and surrounding peaks. A great moderate option for snowshoers wanting more adventure without stepping into avalanche terrain.
• Mount Brown Lookout – Also beginning near Lake McDonald Lodge, this is one of Glacier’s toughest winter climbs. The steep switchbacks lead to a historic fire lookout with massive views across Lake McDonald and the high peaks of the Livingston Range. It’s a big-effort, big-reward objective for strong snowshoers.
• Walton / Ole Creek – Located near Walton Ranger Station on Glacier’s quieter southern edge, this mellow trail follows Ole Creek through peaceful lodgepole forest. It’s flat, sheltered, and great for spotting winter wildlife tracks. Ideal for beginners, families, and anyone craving a quiet snow-day escape.

Rocky Mountain National Park in Winter

With zero crowds, snow-dusted peaks, and quiet forests, Rocky Mountain National Park turns into a dreamscape in the winter. Some of our favorite areas are the Bear Lake Loop & Dream Lake; in summer these areas can be extremely crowded with congestion on the roads, but having visited in the off-season, we highly recommend checking out these trails in winter. You’ll find that RMNP is a truly serene place, and there’s no better way to experience it than on a guided snowshoe tour. Whether you’re a first-timer or an experienced snowshoer, guided snowshoe tours in Rocky Mountain National Park will tailor the trek to your pace, interests, and sense of adventure.

Popular Snowshoe Trails in Rocky Mountain National Park

• Sprague Lake Loop – A short and easy ~0.8-mile loop with big mountain views, perfect for beginners, families, or a relaxed winter stroll.
• Bear Lake Loop – A scenic and accessible ~0.6-mile loop around Bear Lake with iconic views of Hallett Peak and the Continental Divide.
• Nymph Lake – An easy to moderate ~1-mile roundtrip snowshoe with a gentle climb from Bear Lake to a small, frozen lake surrounded by trees.
• Dream Lake – A classic moderate ~2-mile roundtrip snowshoe past Nymph Lake to Dream Lake, set beneath Hallett Peak and Flattop Mountain.
• Emerald Lake – A popular moderate ~3.2-mile roundtrip route continuing beyond Dream Lake to a dramatic alpine cirque.
• Lake Haiyaha – A quieter moderate ~4-mile roundtrip snowshoe branching off near Dream Lake, offering a more rugged feel and fewer crowds.
• Hidden Valley – An easy, flexible ~1–3-mile roundtrip snowshoe across a former ski area with wide-open terrain, ideal for first-timers.
• Glacier Gorge (Mills Lake & The Loch) – Longer moderate to strenuous ~5–6.2-mile roundtrip snowshoe routes with steady elevation gain and dramatic scenery.

When choosing a snowshoe tour, you’ll get to explore the best trails that highlight the park’s sweeping mountain views, frozen streams, and peaceful alpine scenery. Along the way, watch for wildlife such as elk, deer, and coyotes, and pause to capture the stunning winter landscapes. Winter wildlife sightings in RMNP often include elk herds at lower elevations, coyotes crossing frozen meadows, and bighorn sheep near wind-scoured ridges – another reason guides tailor routes based on conditions and seasonal movement.

Snowshoe tours are private or small-group, ensuring a personalized experience and plenty of space to enjoy the stillness of winter. Perfect for families, friends, or solo adventurers, these guided snowshoe tours offer a unique way to experience Rocky Mountain National Park in the winter, beyond the summer crowds.

Pro Tip: Plan a private snowshoe tour during a full moon for a truly magical, intimate moonlit experience.

Crater Lake National Park Snowshoeing Tours

Crater Lake National Park winter is raw, brilliant, and unforgettable. With deep blue water contrasted against steep snow-covered caldera walls, the scenery is unlike anywhere else in the country—especially when storms stack snow by the foot. The juxtaposition of the bright blue lake against the stark white is completely jaw-dropping. Snowshoeing is a wonderful way to explore the rim during this season, offering 360-degree views, silent forests coated in powder, and a chance to wander beyond the typical summer viewpoints.

Guided Crater Lake snowshoeing tours typically follow quiet routes along the rim, where you’ll experience panoramic views of Wizard Island and the lake’s volcanic basin. Local guides share geology, volcanic history, and insights into winter ecology; plus they handle route-finding, avalanche awareness, and winter navigation so you can simply enjoy the walk. Deep snow and winter weather mean independent travel can be challenging, but that’s part of what makes guided trips so special here. You’ll see Crater Lake in its quietest season, crossing fresh snowfields, moving at a relaxed pace, and experiencing a side of the park most visitors never witness. Crater Lake averages over 500 inches of snow annually, which is why guided snowshoeing is the safest and most practical way to experience the rim in winter.

Pro Tip: After your snowshoe tour, be sure to grab a hot chocolate at the Rim Village Cafe. Located next door to the Crater Lake Lodge, the Rim Village Cafe is your go-to spot for food, drinks, and souvenirs while visiting Crater Lake National Park in winter.

Yosemite National Park in Winter

An incredible year-round destination, Yosemite National Park in winter feels completely magical, with granite walls towering above, the Merced River running through, and giant 1000-year-old sequoias all around, creating a deep winter stillness. Guided snowshoeing tours in Yosemite National Park allow you to experience Yosemite at a slower pace without the summer crowds, stopping to admire tree rings, bark textures, and the sheer scale of the landscape.

Shoulder-season or low-snow years are equally stunning; if there isn’t enough snow, opt for a winter hike instead, where the cold, crisp air and foggy forest feels otherworldly. In lower-snow winters, guides often pivot to winter hiking routes, adjusting terrain while still offering access to Yosemite’s iconic granite walls and giant sequoias. You might even crawl through fallen trees and walk through tree tunnels! Snowshoeing and winter hiking in Yosemite are the perfect opportunities to stand among old-growth trees that few visitors see in winter.

Top Spots fo Winter Hiking & Snowshoeing in Yosemite

• Yosemite Falls – One of the most popular winter routes in the park, this trail offers snowy views of North America’s tallest waterfall, often framed by ice formations and mist.
• Bridalveil Fall – A short, accessible winter walk near the valley entrance, Bridalveil Fall is especially dramatic in winter when snow and ice surround the roaring cascade.
• The Cascades – Located along Big Oak Flat Road, this roadside waterfall is a favorite winter stop, offering easy access and impressive icy flows after snowfall.
• Half Dome (Valley Views) – While summiting Half Dome is not a winter objective, it’s iconic from the valley floor, with snowy meadows and river views providing incredible winter photo opportunities.
• Royal Arches – A striking granite formation visible from winter trails in Yosemite Valley, especially beautiful when dusted with snow and glowing in soft winter light.
• Merced River – Flat, scenic riverside trails follow the Merced through Yosemite Valley, making this one of the most popular areas for relaxed winter hiking and snowshoeing.
• El Capitan – A must-see year-round, El Capitan’s sheer granite face towers above winter trails and open meadows, offering dramatic views without any elevation gain.
• Tunnel View – One of Yosemite’s most iconic viewpoints, Tunnel View is frequently accessible in winter and offers sweeping views of El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall, and Half Dome after fresh snowfall.

Pro Tip: Opt for a privately-guided snowshoe tour or winter hike. From adaptive tours to longer, aerobic adventures, your guide will tailor the pace and destinations to you and your group, so you’ll really feel like you have the park to yourself!

Ready to Plan Your Winter Trip?

From snowshoeing beneath the Tetons and tracking wildlife in Yellowstone to skiing through Glacier’s backcountry forests or wandering beneath Yosemite’s ancient winter canopy, the colder months reveal a side of these parks few visitors ever see. Guided winter trips are ideal if you:

• Want fewer crowds and quieter trails
• Prefer guided support for snow travel
• Are new to snowshoeing or winter navigation
• Love photography, wildlife tracking, or slow travel

New to snowshoeing or wondering what to pack? Explore our guides below.

• What to Wear Snowshoeing
• What is Snowshoeing + Tips for Beginners

For tips on winter travel, road closures, and special considerations for visiting in the off-season, be sure to check out each National Park’s guide to visiting in winter:

• Grand Teton National Park Winter Resources
• Yellowstone National Park Winter Resources
• Glacier National Park Winter Resources
• Rocky Mountain National Park in Winter
• Crater Lake National Park Winter Resources
• Yosemite National Park Winter Resources

On TripOutside, discover vetted guided tours and expert-led adventures to experience these national parks at their most magical, quiet, and snow-covered season. TripOutside works directly with vetted local outfitters who are permitted, insured, and experienced in winter guiding – so you can focus on the experience while they handle conditions, safety, and logistics.

The post Visiting National Parks in Winter: Snowshoe, Ski, and Explore in the Quiet Season appeared first on TripOutside.

Our Criteria for Family-Friendly Ski Resorts

1. Family-Friendly Amenities, Accessibility and Convenience
   Services like childcare and kid-friendly lodging, easy access to the resort, ski-in/ski-out lodging, and on-site gear rentals or rental gear delivery make trips smoother for families with young children.
2. Beginner-Friendly Terrain
   For families just getting into snow sports, resorts with gentle slopes, dedicated learning areas, and quality ski schools are perfect for kids and beginners getting started.
3. Après-Ski and Non-Ski Activities
   Options for off-slope fun for families include tubing, ice skating, and other entertainment. Or better yet, childcare or camp-style options so that mommy and daddy can grab some après action.
4. Value and Affordability
   Resorts offering kids-ski-free deals, bundled family packages, and affordable dining make trips more budget-friendly. On a budget and have an RV? Check our ski resorts with RV camping article.

Beaver Creek Resort, Colorado

Beaver Creek Ski Resort is located in Colorado’s Vail Valley, about 13 miles west of Vail. It’s known for its luxurious amenities, world-class grooming, and welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere. The charming village atmosphere adds to its allure, offering plenty of dining and shopping options.

• Location: Located 30 minutes from Eagle County Regional Airport (EGE) and about 2 hours from Denver International Airport (DEN)
• Terrain: Known for its well-groomed beginner and intermediate runs, along with challenging terrain for advanced skiers
• Why It’s Great for Families
  • It is famous for its complimentary cookie time every afternoon. (Complimentary because the resort isn’t the most affordable on the list )
  • Exceptional ski school with programs for kids and beginners
  • Haymeadow Park, is a dedicated beginner area, accessible by gondola
  • Childcare options available

Accommodations Equipment Rentals Tickets/Lessons

Keystone Resort, Colorado

Keystone Resort is located in Summit County approximately 20 miles (a 30-minute drive) from Breckenridge Ski Resort, making it an accessible hub for exploring multiple ski areas in the region. It’s known for its Kids Ski Free program and night skiing options, making it a favorite among families. Kids 12 and under ski free with a minimum stay of two nights at resort lodging.

• Location: Located 1.5 hours from Denver International Airport (DEN)
• Terrain: Features over 3,000 acres of skiable terrain, including long, gentle beginner runs
• Why It’s Great for Families:
  • Kids Ski Free program for children 12 and under
  • Night skiing and snow tubing at Adventure Point
  • A variety of family-friendly lodging options
  • Proximity to both Breckenridge Ski Resort and Copper Mountain Ski Resort

Accommodations Equipment Rentals Tickets/Lessons

Steamboat Resort, Colorado

Known as Ski Town USA, Steamboat Resort sits a bit farther from Denver, roughly a 3-hour scenic drive. It boasts 349 annual inches of it’s signature “champagne powder” snow. This resort offers a laid-back, western vibe that families love, along with diverse terrain for all skill levels. Steamboat offers free lift tickets for children 12 and under when a parent or grandparent purchases a 5-day lift ticket.

• Location: Approximately 150 miles from Denver (about 3 hour drive), or 30 minutes from Yampa Valley Regional Airport (HDN)
• Terrain: Famous for its champagne powder and family-friendly slopes
• Why It’s Great for Families:
  • Renowned kids’ ski school and private family lessons
  • Sleigh rides, hot springs, and western-themed fun
  • Wide-open runs perfect for beginners and intermediates
  • Check out their top 10 winter activities for families

Accommodations Equipment Rentals Tickets/Lessons

Snowmass Resort (Aspen), Colorado

A family favorite Colorado resort, Snowmass is located just 9 miles from downtown Aspen and part of the four-mountain Aspen Snowmass resort system. Snowmass offers families a quieter, more spacious alternative while still providing access to Aspen’s world-class skiing and amenities. Its Treehouse Kids’ Adventure Center and family-oriented events make it a top pick for those traveling with kids.

• Location: Located 15 minutes from Aspen/Pitkin County Airport (ASE) or about 3 hours from Denver International Airport (DEN)
• Terrain: A wide variety of runs, from gentle greens to challenging black diamonds
• Why It’s Great for Families:
  • Treehouse Kids’ Adventure Center – a state-of-the-art, family-friendly facility that combines childcare, ski school, and interactive play areas for children
  • Ullr Nights with tubing, snowbiking, and bonfires
  • Ski-in/ski-out accommodations make logistics easier
  • Lots of non-ski day options like ice climbing and snowshoeing tours

Accommodations Equipment Rentals Tickets/Lessons

Winter Park Resort, Colorado

Winter Park Resort is located just 67 miles northwest of Denver, making it one of the most accessible major ski resorts for families driving from the city. Known for its ski and ride school, Winter Park offers beginner-friendly terrain, tubing hills, and family-focused activities, making it an excellent choice for kids learning to ski or snowboard.

• Location: About 2 hours (90 miles) from Denver International Airport (DEN)
• Terrain: Over 3,000 acres of terrain with dedicated beginner areas as well as challenging runs for advanced skiers
• Why It’s Great for Families:
  • Award-winning ski and ride school for all ages
  • Activities like snowcat tours and scenic gondola rides
  • A relaxed and welcoming atmosphere for families
  • Options for non-skiers or non-ski day activities like snowshoeing

Accommodations Equipment Rentals Tickets/Lessons

Copper Mountain, Colorado

Copper Mountain is located in Summit County, just 75 miles west of Denver, and 16 miles from Breckenridge, making it an accessible hub for exploring multiple ski areas in the region. Known for its naturally divided terrain, Copper is perfect for families, offering the Woodward Snow Park for kids learning freestyle skills, and plenty of kid-focused activities like tubing and ice skating.

• Location: 1.5 hours from Denver International Airport (DEN)
• Terrain: Offers naturally divided terrain for beginners, intermediates, and experts
• Why It’s Great for Families:
  • Woodward Snow Park, an action sports hub with indoor and outdoor spaces for kids and adults to learn and improve freestyle skills
  • Ice skating, snowshoeing and kid-friendly après-ski activities
  • Well-designed village with family-focused dining and lodging
  • Proximity to Breckenridge Ski Resort

Accommodations Equipment Rentals Tickets/Lessons

Park City Mountain Resort, Utah

Park City Mountain Resort is the largest ski resort in the U.S.. It is home to extensive ski school programs, loads of beginner-friendly terrain, and activities for all ages both on and off the mountain. Its proximity to Salt Lake City makes it easily accessible, and its lively village ensures there’s fun for everyone off the slopes.

• Location: Just 40 minutes from Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC)
• Terrain: A whopping 7300 acres of terrain with a mix of beginner, intermediate, and advanced runs
• Why It’s Great for Families:
  • Comprehensive ski school programs for kids and adults
  • Fun activities for kids like the alpine coaster and ice skating
  • Easy access from an international airport and a vibrant, family-friendly village
  • Daycare options at both Canyons Village and at Park City
  • Check out the secret tips and where to ski from the Brave Ski Mom blog.

Accommodations Equipment Rentals Tickets/Lessons

Northstar California Resort, California

Perched near the north shore of Lake Tahoe, Northstar California Resort offers a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere, with wide-open groomed runs ideal for beginners and intermediates, and a cozy village featuring fire pits, ice skating, and a range of shops and restaurants. The village also hosts après-ski events, live music, and activities like s’mores-making, making it a great spot for family fun after a day on the slopes.

• Location: About an hour from Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO)
• Terrain: Plenty of of wide groomed runs and gentle tree skiing for beginners and intermediates, with challenging glades and steeper runs for advanced skiers and riders on the backside of the mountain
• Why It’s Great for Families:
  • Lively village with activities for the whole family, including ice skating and live music
  • Ski school with personalized instruction, small group sizes and private lessons
  • Dedicated learning areas for kids

Accommodations Equipment Rentals Tickets/Lessons

Heavenly Mountain Resort, California/Nevada

On the south shore of Lake Tahoe, straddling the border of California and Nevada, lies Heavenly Resort. Heavenly is great for because of its scenic beginner areas, family-friendly activities like snow tubing and gondola rides with panoramic lake views, and a lively village with plentiful dining and entertainment options.

• Location: Conveniently located, about 1 hour from Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO)
• Terrain: Well-designed layout with a mix of beginner, intermediate, and advanced runs, all with breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe
• Why It’s Great for Families:
  • A lively pedestrian-friendly village with a variety of dining, shopping and entertainment options all in one place, including a skating rink, movie theater and scenic gondola rides
  • Dedicated beginner areas and top notch ski schools
  • Scenic gondola rides for non-skiers
  • Childcare options on the mountain

Accommodations Equipment Rentals Tickets/Lessons

Mammoth Mountain, California

Mammoth Mountain is located in California’s Eastern Sierra, about 5 hours from Los Angeles and just 30 minutes from Mammoth Yosemite Airport (MMH). It’s great for families because of its wide variety of terrain for all skill levels, excellent ski and snowboard school, and fun off-slope activities like tubing, snow play areas, and a bustling base village and town with plenty of dining and entertainment options.

• Location: 3 hours from Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO) and 5 hours from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
• Terrain: Features over 3,500 acres of skiable terrain, with plenty of gentle beginner slopes, long intermediate runs and well-groomed trails. For advanced skiers and riders, there are steep chutes, moguls and Unbound Terrain Park, one of the best terrain parks in the country
• Why It’s Great for Families:
  • Lessons for kids as young as three, with half-day and full-day sessions available
  • Tubing areas, scenic gondola rides, and an ice skating rink in town
  • Epic hot springs in the area to soak in
  • Daycare options for small children

Accommodations Equipment Rentals Tickets/Lessons

Okemo Mountain Resort, Vermont

Okemo Mountain Resort is located in Ludlow, Vermont, within driving distance from both Boston and Albany, making it a convenient East Coast getaway for families. It’s great for families because of its wide, groomed trails perfect for beginners, excellent ski school programs, and off-slope activities like snow tubing, ice skating, and the Timber Ripper Mountain Coaster.

• Location: 2 hours from Albany International Airport (ALB) and 3 hours from Boston Logan International Airport (BOS)
• Terrain: The resort’s naturally progressive layout, with designated learning areas and long, cruisy runs, ensures a fun and stress-free experience for skiers and riders of all ages and skill levels
• Why It’s Great for Families:
  • A variety of family-friendly ski-in/ski-out lodging options
  • Kids Night Out: evening programs where kids can enjoy crafts, games, and movies while parents relax or enjoy après-ski activities
  • Family friendly activities like tubing, ice skating and a roller coaster
  • Excellent ski instruction programs for kids, with personalized instruction, small class sizes and a focus on fun and safety

Accommodations Equipment Rentals Tickets/Lessons

Smugglers’ Notch Resort, Vermont

Smugglers’ Notch Resort, located in Jeffersonville, Vermont, is about 45 minutes from Burlington International Airport (BTV) and nestled in the heart of the Green Mountains. It’s great for families because of its award-winning Snow Sport University ski school, dedicated beginner terrain, and a variety of off-slope activities like tubing, zip-lining, and kids’ programs, making it a top choice for winter family fun.

• Location: About 45 minutes from Burlington International Airport (BTV)
• Terrain: Known for its beginner and intermediate-friendly runs, along with tree skiing for adventurous families
• Why It’s Great for Families:
  • Award-winning Snow Sport University, offering specialized programs for kids, including full-day lessons with games and activities
  • Off-slope activities like snow tubing, ice skating, indoor entertainment centers, zip-lining, and guided snowshoe adventures
  • On-site childcare for kids of all ages

Accommodations Equipment Rentals Tickets/Lessons

Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, Wyoming

Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is located in Teton Village, Wyoming, just 12 miles from the town of Jackson and a mile from Grand Teton National Park. It’s great for families because of its Kids Ranch ski school, dedicated beginner terrain at Teewinot and Solitude Station, and family-friendly activities like snow tubing, wildlife tours, and sleigh rides through the National Elk Refuge.

• Location: Just 30 minutes from Jackson Hole Airport (JAC)
• Terrain: Known for its challenging terrain but also offers beginner-friendly areas
• Why It’s Great for Families:
  • Kids Ranch offers full-day kids programs that include lunch, supervised breaks, and engaging activities
  • Wildlife safaris provide opportunities to observe animals such as elk, moose, bison, and bighorn sheep in their natural winter habitats
  • Stunning scenery and a welcoming mountain town atmosphere
  • A great opportunity to visit Grand Teton National Park or Yellowstone National Park in the winter and add on an extra adventure to your family trip

Accommodations Equipment Rentals Tickets/Lessons

Big Sky Resort, Montana

Big Sky Resort is located in southwestern Montana, about 50 miles south of Bozeman. It’s great for families because of its wide-open terrain with minimal crowds and fun off-slope activities like snowshoeing, tubing, and scenic sleigh rides.

• Location: About an hour from Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN), and about 1 hour from the West Entrance of Yellowstone National Park
• Terrain: Offers over 5,800 acres of skiable terrain with options for all skill levels
• Why It’s Great for Families:
  • Adventure lessons tailored for families, providing a unique opportunity for parents and kids to learn and ski together
  • Minimal crowds, room to spread out and lack of lift lines
  • On-mountain childcare and plenty of family-friendly lodging
  • Lots of winter activities like sno-go biking
  • Great base for families looking to combine skiing with a visit to one of America’s most iconic national parks

Accommodations Equipment Rentals Tickets/Lessons

Creating Winter Memories at the Best Ski Resorts for Families

Choosing the perfect family-friendly ski resort can make all the difference in creating unforgettable winter memories (like the crying meltdown on the lift). Whether you’re looking for world-class ski schools, gentle beginner slopes, or exciting off-slope activities like tubing, ice skating, and cozy après-ski fun, these resorts have something for everyone. From the laid-back charm of Smugglers’ Notch to the vast terrain of Park City, each destination offers a unique blend of adventure and family-focused amenities. So pack up the kids, hit the road or the skies, and get ready for a winter getaway that’s as fun for the kids as it is for the adults. The mountains are calling – let the family adventure begin!

For more ski inspiration, check out our Best Beginner Ski Resorts compilation, and What to Wear Skiing + Trip Packing Checklist

The post The Best U.S. Ski Resorts for Families for This Season appeared first on TripOutside.

There’s very good reasons for Colorado to top the lists for the best state to ski every year. Colorado ski resorts are some of the best in the country.  The state brings in over 14 million visitors annually during the winter ski season. From the steep slopes of Crested Butte to the notorious Vail back bowls, Colorado’s ski resorts are legendary.  Colorado’s popularity lies primarily in its high altitude terrain with some resorts topping out at 14,000 feet.  Add in 300+ inches of fluffy, dry snow annually and spectacular Rocky Mountain views and you’ve got the perfect ski destination. Colorado boasts 26 ski resorts across 15 different mountain ranges, making it a fantastic choice for your next ski trip.

If you know you’re heading to Colorado, choosing which ski resort to visit out of so many fantastic choices can be a challenge!  Most visitors fly into the Mile High City of Denver, where they can easily access many of the state’s most popular ski resorts.  Heading to other parts of the states like the southwest will give you access to some of the least crowded resorts.  Difficult decisions… but we’ve got your back.  Read on for recommendations on our favorite Colorado ski resorts, plus tips on how to make the most of your Colorado ski vacation.

1. Select the best ski resort in Colorado based on how far you want to drive

Ski Resorts near Denver (2-3 hours drive)

Denver is the largest city in Colorado.  It has a large international airport, hosting flights on all the major airlines from most major domestic cities and many international as well.  Many ski and snowboard enthusiasts fly into Denver because of its proximity to a large number of world-class ski resorts. These resorts are likely to be busier than ski resorts in other parts of the state because of the convenience of flying into Denver and easy access via I-70, but most of these resorts also have a ton of terrain to spread people out.

WINTER PARK RESORT

Winter Park Resort is the closest major ski resort to Denver.   What we love about Winter Park:

• Despite being just 67 miles from Denver, Winter Park’s location tucked away in the Rockies feels as remote as the most off-the-beaten-path ski resort.
• The resort is a relatively straightforward drive from Denver.
• There’s even an option to take the Amtrak train from downtown Denver right to Winter Park, a scenic ride to skip the winter driving!
• If you are looking for tree skiing, the tree runs on Mary Jane can’t be beat.

Winter Park Ski Resort has over 3,000 acres of skiable terrain with more than 140 trails and 1,200-plus acres of back-country terrain.

COPPER MOUNTAIN

Copper Mountain is 75 miles from Denver and is home to a variety of award-winning terrain. The resort’s 2500 acres of terrain follows a fall-line path that includes everything from mellow rolling terrain to steep fast runs.  Beginners can head over to the west side for easier runs, while experienced skiers can ski the intermediate and advanced runs in the center and eastern side of the resort.

What we love about Copper Mountain:

• The incredible perks at Copper like free snowcat access to Tucker Mountain for expert skiers, free parking, and the free Summit County bus system that can take you into Frisco or Breckenridge.
• These freebies combined with the lower lift ticket prices will make your trip to Copper much easier on the wallet.
• Copper’s naturally divided terrain makes it a great resort for all levels.

Don’t jump on the bus to Breckenridge too quickly though – Copper Mountain’s base village has some great après ski hangouts that rival Breckenridge. Try out the happy hour at cozy local dives like Jack’s Slopeside Bar and Grill, and Incline’s.

VAIL SKI RESORT

Thanks to the magical combination of 5200 acres of terrain, 300+ days of sunshine and 370+ inches of snow each year, Vail is a must-visit ski destination. While Vail can be viewed as upscale or expensive, we believe it’s worth it because of the resort’s epic terrain… you must visit at least once.

What we love about Vail:

• Huge amount of terrain and the legendary back bowls
• Wide variety of shops, restaurants, and other activities for non-ski days
• Majestic views of the surrounding Gore and Sawatch mountain ranges as you ski

Vail is 100 miles from Denver, so expect a couple hours driving depending on weather and traffic.

Ski Resorts: 3+ hours from Denver

There are many wonderful ski resorts in Colorado that are a bit farther of a drive from Denver.  These are typically located off the “main drag” of I-70, and if you are willing to make the drive, you will typically see fewer people and less lines at these resorts.  Our favorite ski resorts that are a 3+ hour drive from Denver are located in some of our favorite Colorado ski towns.

STEAMBOAT SKI RESORT

If you are looking for something new in Colorado for your ski trip, head up to Steamboat Springs. Steamboat is known for its incredible tree skiing for skiers of all abilities and its fluffy “champagne powder” snow. If you catch Steamboat during a snowstorm, you will realize the snow is worth the hype.  The resort’s almost 3000 acres of terrain has enough steeps to satisfy the experts, but it’s also well known for its expansive and un-intimidating intermediate trails.

What we love about Steamboat:

• Steamboat is great for the whole family with a good mix of trails across the resort.  Kid-friendly activities are plentiful and showcase Steamboat’s Wild West roots.
• Steamboat’s namesake hot springs are a fantastic way to relax after a day on the slopes.
• There’s a ton of choices for après-ski.  The base village has plenty of spots like the Double Diamonds bar where the party can last all night.  Or head into the downtown for an even wider variety of food and drinks.

The town is situated in northern Colorado about a three hour drive from Denver, which makes it a bit more secluded than some other ski resorts along the I-70 corridor.

ASPEN SNOWMASS

The infamous Aspen, Colorado actually has four unique ski mountains, all accessible with the same ski pass. The combined area of these four mountains is a whopping 5527 skiable acres.  Aspen is perfect for adventure-seeking skiers – the trail breakout favors intermediate to expert skiers.  With an average of 300 inches of snow annually, you’ll get your much-needed pow fix. All four of the Aspen Snowmass resorts are connected by short rides on a free bus system, meaning you can even ski all four mountains in a single day.  Is Aspen worth the shelling out for?  We think so, and you can save some money by staying in nearby Snowmass Village, which has a number of slopeside options plus a base village with plenty of options for après-ski.

What we love about Aspen Snowmass:

• After a day on the Aspen slopes you will find lively après-ski parties, excellent dining choices, luxury spas, and possible celebrity sightings.
• If you decide to take a day off of skiing, there are plenty of other activities to keep you busy like snowshoeing, snow tubing and ice skating.
• With four connected mountains, there’s tons of choices for all levels of skiers and snowboarders.

Typically a 3-hour drive from Denver, you can easily include an Aspen trip to your Colorado adventure itinerary.  You can also fly right into Aspen airport on United and Delta airlines, a 15-minute drive to the ski resort.

CRESTED BUTTE MOUNTAIN RESORT

Crested Butte Resort’s 1547 acres of skiable terrain is renowned by advanced skiers and snowboarders for its upper terrain known as the Extremes, which has some of Colorado’s steepest ski lines. But for the rest of us, intermediate-friendly tree runs and spacious groomed runs make this resort a top pick. Skiers and boarders enjoy plenty of pow days with an average snow dump of 300 inches a year.

Referred to as Colorado’s last great ski town, Crested Butte’s location in southern Colorado offers incredible scenery and less crowds.

What we love about Crested Butte:

• It’s off the beaten path location, and true mountain town vibe.
• It’s historic downtown with many quaint shops, après-ski bars, and tasty restaurants.
• Despite Crested Butte being a bit farther off the beaten path, it is relatively easy to get to and enjoys fewer crowds than the ski resorts right along I-70.

Crested Butte is typically a four hour drive from Denver, or you can choose to fly into one of the regional airports – Gunnison is 30 minutes away and Montrose is 90 minutes away.

Southwest Colorado Ski Resorts

Southwest Colorado is home to some of the state’s most rugged terrain and high peaks. It also has some of the best ski resorts in Colorado.  The resorts here aren’t connected by an interstate; instead you find yourself traveling on state highways like Highway 550 (also known as the Million Dollar Highway) that take you through breathtaking mountains with an abundance of scenic vistas.  There are a couple of different airports that you can choose to fly into to access these resorts, including Durango-La Plata County Airport, Montrose Regional Airport and Telluride Regional Airport.  Flying directly into Telluride may be more expensive, so Durango or Montrose is typically a less costly option, but requires a bit more driving.  The lack of proximity to a large international airport means the resorts in this part of the state are also less crowded. The Southwest is home to three major ski resorts that we highly recommend visiting:

TELLURIDE SKI RESORT

Thanks to its legendary terrain, Telluride is considered one of the best skiing destinations not only in the US, but also in the world. Its stunning mountain views, charming historic downtown, and true varied terrain for all is a big draw.  Telluride is home to 2000 acres of lift-accessible terrain that truly accommodates all levels of skiers and riders.  Steep vertical drops, bowls, cliffs and chutes are beloved by expert and advanced skiers and riders, and advanced intermediates enjoy Telluride’s double blue trails and intermediate glade skiing, a rarity at other resorts.

What we love about Telluride:

• Beginners can ride any lift at the resort and still find an easier trail, even a 4.5-mile run down from just below the summit.
• Telluride’s lack of lift lines and low pressure atmosphere for all skill levels.
• Telluride may seem ritzy and upscale, but we love that the town has managed to hold onto it’s wild west roots and laid back charm.

Both the town of Telluride and the ski base Mountain Village have fantastic dining and apres-ski options, as well as shops and bars to keep you plenty busy off the slopes.

To get to Telluride, you can fly directly into Telluride Regional Airport, or look into making the (beautiful) drive from Durango-La Plata County Airport (~2.5 hour) or Montrose Regional Airport (~1.5 hour).  Flying directly into Telluride may be more expensive, so Durango or Montrose is typically a less costly option.  It does require a bit more driving – but the drive is stunning.

PURGATORY RESORT

Purgatory doesn’t make the top lists often, and it may be the only resort on this list that you haven’t heard of, but we couldn’t overlook it comes to great ski resorts in the southwest.  The fact that it’s off the radar for many Colorado visitors makes it a true gem with wide open slopes.

Purgatory is located in the San Juan Mountains just 30 minutes north of Durango, CO.  The resort’s 1,635 acres offer unique tree skiing opportunities, and a good mix of terrain with about 50% of the trails rated intermediate.  Averaging 260 inches of snow annually, Purgatory is known for its consistent dry powder.

What we love about Purgatory:

• Purgatory is an inexpensive family destination with some of the lowest lift ticket prices in Colorado.
• The rugged San Juans give the resort a spectacular backdrop
• The abundance of winter activities, friendly staff, little to no lift lines, and some of the best ski weather in the country.

The resort’s base village and surrounding area has several reasonably priced après-ski and dining options (our fave: the Old Schoolhouse Cafe), or head to nearby Durango historic downtown for your pick of dozens of restaurants, bars and shops.

Durango-La Plata airport is an easy 25-minute drive from downtown, and just under an hour from Purgatory Resort.

WOLF CREEK SKI AREA

Wolf Creek receives an astonishing 430 inches of snowfall each year – the most snow of any Colorado ski resort. This family owned ski resort stretches across a high alpine ridge in the rugged San Juan Mountains.  Unlike some of the other resorts on this list, the resort doesn’t have a base village or town, so most visitors stay in Pagosa Springs, about 30 minutes away.

What we love about Wolf Creek:

• It’s surrounded by some of the most rugged mountains in Colorado and the views are spectacular.
• The plentiful pow, expansive hike-to terrain and fantastic bowls with advanced intermediate terrain.
• Wolf Creek does allow self contained RV camping in the Overflow Parking Lot for those hardy folks who wish to spend the night at 10,000 feet and get to the lifts early.

To get to Wolf Creek, most visitors fly into Durango-La Plata airport, which is approximately a 1.5-hour drive.

2. Consider taking a lesson to improve your skills

If you are new to skiing or snowboarding, or looking to improve your skills, you may want to consider taking a lesson at the ski resort.  Most resorts offer lessons for all levels, both group and private. It’s a great way to ensure you and your group stay safe, improve your skills, and make the most out of your trip to Colorado.  You can also use a lesson to help you feel more confident on the mountain – whether it’s tackling the black diamond runs, the terrain park or those daunting moguls.

If you’re new to skiing or snowboarding and are taking a group trip, consider taking a lesson at a ski resort close to where you live if it’s possible. For example, if you live in Atlanta and have a ski trip coming up in Colorado, you can visit a smaller resort in North Carolina to take a lesson in advance. In most cases, these lessons will be less expensive, and you’ll get the hang of the sport before going out with your group. It will make you more confident, you’ll get used to your gear and the ski lifts, and get through all of the early learnings of getting into the sport.

3. Take a shuttle to the resort (or at least rent a 4×4)

Winter driving in Colorado can be unpredictable even along the interstates. I-70 isn’t your normal interstate, it goes right through the mountains with high elevation passes and frequent snowstorms.  We recommend taking a shuttle from the airport to avoid having to worry about driving, or rent a 4×4 or AWD vehicle to ensure your safety.  You can even take a train right from downtown Denver to Winter Park Ski Resort!

Many roads, including I-70, require 4×4, snow tires and/or chains on vehicles while it’s snowing.  You don’t want to miss out on a day of skiing because you didn’t have the right vehicle.  Most ski towns are easily walkable and/or have ski shuttles within the town and to the ski resort, so vehicles aren’t typically needed once you arrive.

4. Prepare for the weather and altitude

Colorado can be a land of extremes so it is important to be prepared!  Before visiting, track the weather and temperatures and consider the activities you have planned. Packing layers is important for all outdoor activities, and helps to ensure you can adjust your attire accordingly based on the weather and your activity level.  It can get quite chilly in the mountains and if you aren’t prepared with what to pack for your ski trip, you will may miss out on some of the best adventures!

To get ready for the high elevation, increase your cardio activities pre-trip, because the better cardio shape you are in, the less likely you will feel negative effects from the elevation. You can prepare yourself and your lungs for that “out of breath” feeling at higher elevations when you don’t have as much oxygen to work with.  More hydration is also necessary at higher elevations, especially when you are active.  Drinking more water leading up to your trip is smart so that you get in the habit of it before you will really need to.

5. Rent gear in advance, and choose delivery

Let’s face it, ski and snowboard gear is expensive and can be a hassle to transport.  Especially if you only ski a couple times a year or less.  When you rent equipment at your destination, you can save yourself the headache of transporting and maintaining gear, and you get to try out the newest equipment on each trip.  With delivery options available almost everywhere, ski rental is a breeze.  Book your gear easily online and have it delivered to your accommodation the evening before your first ski day.  Remember that availability can be tight, especially during holidays and peak times, so book your rental gear online as far in advance as possible.

6. Buy lift tickets online in advance to save time and money 

Lift ticket prices have skyrocketed in recent years, but there are still great ways to save your hard earned dough.  The closer you get to your ski date, the more expensive lift tickets will be.  Buying lift tickets online in advance will give you a much better deal, plus less of a wait at the slopes!  If you are skiing more than 1 day, another great way to save is to buy a multi-day lift ticket, which typically costs less per day than buying individual single day tickets.

7. Include a day off of skiing in your trip itinerary

When planning your trip, include an extra day in your itinerary so you can enjoy other winter activities. Most ski destinations have plenty of other winter activities like snowshoeing, cross country skiing, ice skating, ice climbing, hot springs and more.  Taking a break from shredding the slopes can allow you to look for wildlife, enjoy the peaceful sounds of nature, or take up a new activity you’ve never tried before!

8. Care for Colorado

TripOutside is a member of the Care for Colorado coalition and Leave No Trace.  The coalition promotes the seven Care for Colorado Leave No Trace Principles, which were created as a direct response to concerns about visitor impacts on our cultural and natural resources. Our goal is to encourage widespread adoption and awareness of these principles by communities, residents, and visitors, empowering everyone to protect the experiences they love in Colorado.  Please follow Leave No Trace principles during your visit and Do Colorado Right!

No matter where you decide to ski in Colorado this winter, you are bound to have a great time. Remember to recreate responsibly, and follow leave no trace principles to ensure our wilderness areas stay pristine for generations to come. Whether you are staying close to Denver or getting off the beaten path in the southwest, Colorado will make a wonderful destination for your next ski trip.

The post 8 Tips for Planning Your Ski Trip to Colorado appeared first on TripOutside.