Escape the crowds in summertime and venture into the mountains to reconnect with nature and unleash your inner explorer. Discover nine epic adventures around the world, from white-water rafting in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains to climbing the highest Via Ferrata in France.
Tackle France’s highest Via Ferrata in Méribel, France
Méribel offers a plethora of hiking trails catering to all skill levels, from leisurely strolls to challenging ascents. Aspiring mountaineers have the chance to tackle the highest Via-Ferrata in France, located above Méribel Village. Culminating at 2,739 metres, La Dent de Burgin via – also called La Croix des Verdons – offers a gruelling route along a ridge with steep rocky sections. The Via Ferrata provides a stunning way to experience Les 3 Vallées, with sweeping views over Mont Blanc and the highest summits in the Vanoise and Les Ecrins mountain ranges. meribel.net/en
Ride the Roaring Fork River with Blazing Adventures in Aspen and Snowmass Village, Colorado
For those seeking a thrill, Blazing Adventures offers a variety of adventures including exhilarating rafting tours ranging from family-friendly rides with amazing views of the Glenwood Canyon, to full day rafting expeditions on class III and IV whitewater through the dramatic Rocky Mountains. Pick up to, and from, major hotels in Aspen and Snowmass Village can be arranged, as well as lunches on longer experiences. gosnowmass.com / aspenchamber.org
Geocache among the peaks of Palisades Tahoe’s High Camp, California
Add some excitement to your hike in the mountains with a spot of geocaching, a form of global treasure hunt whereby people use their navigation skills to find hidden geocaches. From High Camp at Palisades Tahoe, which sits at 8,200 feet, visitors can search for six caches hidden among the mountain’s peaks using GPS coordinates. Take the Aerial tram to get to High Camp which is included on the 24/25 Ikon Pass. The pass grants unlimited lift access to 17 ski resorts in North America as well as limited access to 40+ ski resorts worldwide, where summer or winter fun can be enjoyed. ikonpass.com
Embark on a mountain biking adventure across Arizona
Known for its diverse geography and rough terrain, Arizona has a lot to offer when it comes to mountain biking. Seasoned mountain bikers can opt for the more adventurous trails, while beginners have an array of shorter or less challenging routes to choose from. The climate in Arizona allows for trail access all year round, with Prescott and Flagstaff offering higher-altitude options for the summer months. With majestic scenery all around, mountain biking trails in Arizona make for great sightseeing adventures. visitarizona.com
Experience nature therapy amidst the Ebino Highlands, Japan
Offering spectacular scenery that changes with the seasons, the Ebino Highland Crater Lake Hiking Trail follows the edges of three of Ebino Highlands’ crater lakes. Listed as one of Japan’s top “100 forests for nature therapy”, this trail starts and ends at the Ebino Eco-Museum Centre, taking around four hours to complete. The course brings hikers past various observatories, including the summit of Mt Shiratori. The main highlights of the hike include the views of the three crater lakes – Rokkannon-miike Crater Lake, Byakushi-ike Crater Lake and Fudo-ike Crater Lake. From the top of Mt Shiratori, hikers will also be able to spot Mt Karakuni and Mt Sakurajima. japan.travel/en/uk
Try out Dodge Ridge Disc Golf in Tuolumne County, California
Whether visitors are new to disc golf or they’re a seasoned player, Dodge Ridge Mountain Resort has two courses to try out. The White Thorn course, located at the top of the Motherlode Chairlift (7,400 ft), has 18 holes, suitable for intermediate to advanced players. To play, purchase a Scenic Chairlift Ride ticket to the top, and enjoy the views on the way up before playing 18 holes of disc golf back down to the base area. For beginners, The Ponderosa 18 hole course is perfect, located at the base area. visittuolumne.com
Zipline with volcanic views, Chile
Villarrica is an active volcano known for its spectacular bubbling open lava lake within its summit crater. Adventurers worldwide flock here to embark on the demanding ascent during the summer months and to carve through its slopes on skis during winter. Nestled in the picturesque Chilean Lake District in the south-central region, Villarrica stands adjacent to Pucon, a town finely attuned to the needs of travellers. Experience an exhilarating adrenaline rush whilst you zipline over the luscious VIllarrica National Park and enjoy views of plunging valleys and Villarrica Volcano. chile.travel/en
Enjoy watersports on glacial lakes in Mammoth Lakes, California
Once the snow melts, Mammoth Lakes becomes the ultimate watersports playground where visitors can choose from boating, kayaking, or paddleboarding. The water is the perfect place to enjoy the surrounding scenery during the summer months. Delight in the sight of Carson Peak from June Lake, or Mammoth Mountain from Lake Mary, and keep an eye out for some of the 300 species of birds who frequent Mono Lake. Paddleboarders can choose from seven paddle-accessible lakes, with Horseshoe Lake being a local favourite. There are several places to rent a board or kayak, including Footloose Sports and Mammoth Kayaks. visitmammoth.com
Adventure through Nasu’s majestic mountains in Tochigi prefecture, Japan
Summer in the mountains of Nasu is a refreshing escape into nature’s serene beauty. As the temperatures rise, the lush green landscapes of the Nasu Volcanic Zone come alive, offering a cool and tranquil retreat from the heat. Visitors can explore a myriad of hiking trails that wind through dense forests, leading to breathtaking vistas and hidden waterfalls. The area is dotted with natural hot springs (onsen), perfect for a soak in therapeutic waters while taking in panoramic views of the verdant mountains. Whether seeking adventure or relaxation, a summer visit to Nasu’s mountains promises an unforgettable experience immersed in the natural beauty and cultural richness of this picturesque region. Nasu, Tochigi Prefecture
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