This post is in collaboration with the Hipmunk Hotels Campaign.
The American West is a haven for adventure addicts looking for fun outdoors activities year-round. If you’re thinking of going somewhere where the busy city life is nonexistent and nature is nearby, head to these four interesting and exciting destinations who might just show you why the west is best.
Saint George, Utah
History buffs, adventurers, and archaeology geeks alike will love spending time in Saint George, Utah. For hiking trails through red rocks, cacti, and wildlife, venture to Pioneer Park. For sunset, hike to the top of Pioneer Park to capture a warm view of the Saint George Valley. For amazing artistry in a beautiful desert atmosphere, head to the quirky neighborhood of Kayenta where you’ll find the local’s take on photographing the surrounding landscapes, Native American jewelry, paintings – all with Red Mountain as a backdrop. The city also has adventure activities like skydiving, zip lining, mountain biking, and lakeside activities. For the best hotels in St. George, opt to stay somewhere near the main road as most activities require a short drive.
Moab, Utah
Moab attracts outdoorsmen and women from all over the globe. Visitors can go river rafting, climbing, zip-lining, mountain biking, scenic flying, stand-up paddleboarding, as well as the usual outdoor activities on the many trails of the national park. For a unique hike through a maze of red stone walls, arches, and spires, check out the Fiery Furnace trail in Arches National Park. An affordable hotel option in Moab is the Adventure Inn & Motel, where staff are usually in-tune to what activities you’ll likely be into during your stay.
Tukwila, Washington
Tukwila, Washington is a perfect gateway to central Seattle and the Mt. Rainier National Park where you can find better value accommodation in a central area than in the more touristy regions of Washington. Though the town itself is small, it has an indoor skydiving arena, a family fun center, and is just 1.5 hours from the gates of Mt. Rainier National Park, where you can spend multiple days hiking and spotting wildlife. It’s the perfect town to use as a base while hitting the Washington state highlights.
Bellevue, Washington
The largest suburb in Seattle, Bellevue has a surprising amount of adventure activities despite being in the ‘burbs. Check out the zip line and aerial adventure park, Newcastle Beach, Mercer Slough Nature Park, and the famous Bellevue Botanical Garden for a fresh dose of outdoor air. Most parks with lakes allow kayaking, fishing, standup-paddleboarding and have hiking trails all around its perimeters. If craving some time indoors, there are a variety of shopping malls, museums, and cultural centers for you to enjoy. For a DIY tour of the wineries, grab a map and venture to any of the 100 tasting rooms that catch your eye. Most hotels in central Bellevue are walking distance to at least a handful of the city’s main attractions.