Any time is a good time for a vacation, but the summer season makes an adventurous getaway even more appealing. With warm weather and sunshine, there are countless more ways to make lasting memories and have unforgettable experiences on your vacation. And all throughout the United States, travelers will find an extensive selection of bucket-list-worthy adventurous from riding through the sand dunes of California deserts to parasailing over the Miami coastline. In this post, we’ll introduce you to a few things you should consider adding to your summer travel bucket list.
1. Dune Riding Through the Desert
You don’t have to book a flight to another country to do some serious dune riding. Whether you’re an avid motocross aficionado or someone who’s looking to take an ATV out for a spin for a first-time dune riding experience, the United States offers plenty of landscape that is perfect for riding. Imperial Sand Dunes in Glamis, California, boasts an extensive dune system with massive dunes reaching up to 300 feet! Two other popular dune systems in the state include Oceano Dunes SVRA in Pismo Beach and Dumont Dunes in Baker. If you’d prefer to stick to midwestern dune systems, a few favorites include Silver Lake State Park in Michigan, Coral Pink Sand Dunes in Kanab, Utah, and Little Sahara Dunes in Waynoka, Oklahoma.
2. Bungee Jump off the Bridge to Nowhere (and Everywhere Else)
The Bridge to Nowhere in El Segundo, California, is a popular bungee jumping location and certainly one of the highest, most adrenaline-inducing spots in the country. When you jump off the bridge to nowhere, you’ll fly through 100 feet of air above the San Gabriel River in a gorge surrounded by the Sheep Mountain Wilderness. If you’re not in Southern California, there are still many other bungee jumping destinations all over the United States. Travel to Boise Idaho to experience what it’s like to jump through over 300 feet of air off the Crooked River Bridge. Other great bungee jumping spots that come with scenic views include the Navajo Bridge in Marble Canyon, Arizona, Perrine Bridge in Twin Falls, Idaho, and the Rio Grande Bridge in Taos, New Mexico.
3. Ski in the Summer
There is something supremely refreshing about being high up on a mountain surrounded by snow during the middle of summer when temperatures are typically sweltering hot. If you’re a fan of skiing and snowboarding, why not take to the slopes to beat the heat? For travelers headed to the west coast, take on Mammoth Mountain in California where you’ll be able to ski well into July. Colorado visitors will want to stop by Arapahoe Basin for some serious snow activities. Just keep in mind this resort only stays open until June. Even if you aren’t a snowboarding or skiing enthusiast, spending a few days at a ski resort provides the opportunity for many other relaxing activities, like a drink by the pool or a hot tub to unwind in.
4. Parasailing Over the Ocean (or the Great Lakes)
Although a great deal of parasailing is typically done on oceans, anyone visiting the Great Lakes area will also have an opportunity to get in some parasailing. Head to Mackinaw City to parasail over the eastern shore of Lake Michigan. In Key West, you can find plenty of parasailing opportunities on the Key West Bight and Smathers Beach with tandem trips costing anywhere from $29–$49. Miami is another great spot in Florida for prime parasailing, treating you to views of the ocean and city skyline—all from about 400 feet up in the salty sea air.
5. Rock Climbing in National Parks
You don’t necessarily have to be an avid rock climber to enjoy scaling some boulders and getting in touch with your primal side. Provided you’re with an experienced climber, you can get your start in bouldering and rock climbing while being surrounded by some of the most incredible natural wonders in the world. Joshua Tree National Park in California is home to over 8,000 climbing routes. If climbing isn’t your thing, you can stick to the hiking trails and boulders, both equally invigorating and enjoyably challenging. Leavenworth, Washington is another must-visit park for avid climbers, especially for climbers who have a penchant for bouldering. Finally, both beginner and advanced climbers will get a real thrill out of Shawangunk Ridge, just a 90-minute drive outside of New York City. The park boasts over 1,000 climbing routes, all of varying lengths.
Ready to start checking items off your summer vacation bucket list? Start your adventure by buying a bus ticket from BusTickets.com today!
