6 Mountain Activities to Add to Your Bucket List for 2023

If you’re an adventure enthusiast and love the outdoors; you probably are always hunting for ways to spark your wanderlust and experience new heights. The regular all-inclusive resorts, beachside strolls, island hopping, shopping trips, and city tours don’t inspire you anymore, and you’re seeking an escape that’s a bit more thrilling. So, why not go where only a few people dare to and fuel your curiosity to conquer uncharted territory?

Yes, it’s the mountains that we’re talking about – the perfect playground of adventure and discovery with the most stunning views and scenery, no matter what season you choose to explore.

Besides, it doesn’t matter if you’re an experienced mountaineer or a complete novice, as anyone can have a great time among the lush trails, sun-kissed peaks, and wildflower fields.

The United States boasts some of the world’s most stunning and awe-inspiring mountain ranges begging to be explored. With towering peaks, challenging terrain, and enchanting landscapes, there are endless opportunities for adventure.

Prepare to embark on an unforgettable mountaineering journey with our list of exciting mountain activities customized for each state.

Do you love roller coasters or scenic rides? This mountain coaster in Tennessee offers both. This unique coaster combines roller coaster and bobsled elements for an exciting ride. You’ll race around the track, taking sharp corners and hairpin turns — all while soaking in stunning views of the Smoky Mountains and Sevierville, Tennessee.

The best part? You can control your speed — go as fast or slow as you want. And although the ride lasts around eight minutes, the excitement will stay with you for much longer.

Bonus Tip: Ride the mountain coaster at nighttime. The stars twinkling above you and the city lights below will make for a one-of-a-kind experience. 

Embark on an adventure to the Red Rock Canyon Recreation Area, just a hop, and skip away from the dazzling city of Las Vegas. The canyon boasts numerous cliffs and bluffs just waiting to be scaled.

Next, head towards Mount Potosi, located south of the area, for the ultimate adrenaline rush. This popular spot offers a range of challenging routes that provide spectacular views of the canyon and the surrounding desert. From laid-back scrambles over easy terrain to nerve-wracking face climbs, each route demands your wits and brawn. So, pack your equipment and brace yourself for a thrilling experience that will leave you gasping for more.

If caving is up your alley, you’ll be happy to know that Nevada is booming with limestone and sandstone caves. Lehman Caves is one of the state’s most popular caving spots, with plenty of easy-to-explore chambers and tunnels. 

Even if you’ve experienced paragliding, there’s no way to appreciate the thrill until you try it in Washington. This Evergreen State offers a variety of breathtaking landscapes to soar above, including Rampart Ridge, Tiger Mountain, Chashmere, Blanchard, and Whidbey Island.

The adventure starts with climbing up a hill, running a few steps, and then, with the right amount of lift, you can soar like an eagle. You can go tandem paragliding with an instructor or take a lesson to learn the ropes and glide solo.

Four tips for a safe and adventurous paragliding adventure in Washington:

• Have a light, dry meal a couple of hours before your activity.
• Avoid sugary drinks or caffeine to prevent a sugar rush.
• Wear layers – even on a hot day, as the temperature can drop quickly when you’re up in the sky.
• Bring sunscreen and sunglasses to shield yourself from UV rays.

Imagine lying on top of a mountain and looking up at the stars. You’ll feel all your troubles suddenly melt away as you take in the beauty of all these tiny, twinkling lights above you. Stargazing in Wyoming is undoubtedly something every outdoor enthusiast should experience. Since this state is home to some of the darkest skies in the country, you may even get to see some special astronomical events, such as meteor showers or a lunar eclipse, depending on the time of year.

If you’re looking for the best stargazing opportunities, head to Yellowstone National Park or Grand Teton National Park. These parks offer the perfect combination of wide-open spaces with minimal light pollution, making them ideal destinations for a night under the stars.

You can also visit Devils Tower, South Pass, or Big Horn Basin for a great stargazing experience. Make sure to bring stargazing gear along with you to have the best view of the night sky.

If any outdoor activity screams adventure, it’s white-water rafting or kayaking in the rivers of Oregon. From the raging waters at the Rogue River to calmer spots like the Sandy River, there are plenty of perfect rafting and kayaking spots throughout the state.

You can also find white water rafting tours in some of Oregon’s more remote areas, such as Owyhee River, which contains class III in a tight canyon with a backdrop of steep volcanic cliffs.

Michigan is a cornucopia of natural wonders, boasting some of the most mesmerizing trails in the entire country. If you’re craving a hiking getaway, look no further than this Midwestern gem.

Traverse the rugged terrain of the Upper Peninsula, or tackle the challenging inclines of the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. And don’t miss out on the Sleeping Bear Dunes, a mesmerizing 2.8-mile loop that will amaze you.

Next, head to Porcupine Mountains State Park for the ultimate challenge and conquer The Lake of the Clouds Trail. It’s a 1.4-mile out-and-back trek offering unparalleled Lake Superior vistas and its verdant surroundings. Michigan is truly a hiker’s paradise, waiting to be explored by intrepid adventurers like you. 

Don’t forget to wear appropriate hiking gear and bring snacks for the trip. Also, follow the safety guidelines while exploring Michigan’s trails, and enjoy an unforgettable adventure.

Conclusion

The mountains are calling, and it’s your time to take the plunge. Whether you’re an experienced mountaineer or a complete novice, there are endless opportunities for mountain adventure in the US.

Pack your bags and head towards Tennessee to ride on a mountain coaster and experience the breathtaking Smoky Mountains and Sevierville views. Visit Wyoming to explore the majestic Grand Teton National Park and other resorts for the best stargazing experience.

If you like to test your strength and explore the natural beauty of Nevada, go rock climbing in Red Rock Canyon. Enjoy the views of Washington’s Cascades while paragliding over beautiful alpine valleys.

White-water rafting or kayaking in Oregon and hiking in Michigan are also activities for a thrilling outdoor experience.