The United States draws adventure travelers from all over the world. From sea to shining sea, and everything in between, the USA truly has something for everyone.
The Pacific and Atlantic coasts offer rugged fishing towns, beach experiences, and island excursions. There are multiple epic mountain ranges including the Rockies, the Appalachians, the Sierra Nevada, and the Cascades.
In a country where you can experience just about every type of adventure under the sun, the USA is an awesome place to explore. At first glance, the country is in its infancy, less than 300 years old.
Spend some time here, though, and you will find that the Indigenous cultural roots are deep. The First Nations in the USA have persevered through centuries of persecution and have fought hard to keep their cultures alive. Understanding and respecting those roots is an important value for travelers, and I encourage you to research whose land you are visiting as you travel through this part of the world.
Below are the states I have visited. States that I have written about are linked. To get you started, Washington, Arizona, and Florida are a few of my favorite states to visit.
Arizona (link coming soon)
It’s hard to match the dramatic colors and shapes of Arizona. Historic Route 66, rugged desert terrain, and ample national forest land round out a state that is world famous for being the home of The Grand Canyon.
Florida (link coming soon)
Florida may be known for out-of-control spring breaks and retirement crowds, but the swampy everglade side of the state is full of mystery and intrigue. If you want to get up close and personal with some gators, or if you need to hide a body, Florida is the place to be.
Washington
The Evergreen State is a popular home base for outdoor adventurers for good reason. Mountain and water sports are accessible from almost anywhere in the state, and the grungy rainy culture makes it easy to settle in at a coffee shop with a good book for hours.
California
Known as the golden state, California is home to both the highest and lowest points in the lower 48 United States. It is home to the largest tree in the world, the original Disneyland, and a whopping 19 major professional sports franchises. California is all-around epic.
Nevada
A couple of hours here in the summer confirms that Nevada is a dry hot desert. There are some interesting areas around the southern tip of the state, and a trip to Vegas can surprise adventuresome visitors with opportunities for outdoor pursuits.
Oregon
Oregon is weird and wonderful. There are beaches, mountains, sand dunes, giant craters, and the hipster center of the universe, Portland. It’s kind of like a low key Washington, and seems like the state where you’d be most likely to spot Bigfoot.
Tennessee
Tennessee is a friendly southern state. You’ll find great music in Nashville, hella barbeque in Memphis, and the Great Smoky Mountains. I spent a week in Tennessee but I wish I had an extra three or four to explore all of the great outdoor spots. Also, thinking about Nashville hot chicken still makes me drool.
Montana
Montana has mountains to the west and badlands to the east, and the cultural history is tied to the Blackfoot Confederacy. The landscapes are rural, and have a sense of depth to them that requires full immersion.
Idaho
Idaho doesn’t have much of a brand. Potatoes maybe? It’s quiet, a good place to escape from the worries of the world and into nature. The population density is low, and the amount of national forest space to explore is huge.
Note: Idaho may not be the safest place for historically marginalized people. As always, when you get there, trust your gut and don’t put yourself in danger.