5 Outdoor Getaways We Absolutely Love

Nature awaits!

If the closest you’ve come to nature lately has been looking out the window, it’s definitely time to head outside. Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline-fueled adventure or simply the quiet appeal of a mountain vista, outdoor getaways can be the perfect way to recharge, restore, and relax.

Ready for an amazing vacay that’s miles away from civilization? Or at the very least, one that feels like it? Check out these naturally beautiful spots for some much-needed time with Mother Nature.

• Grand Canyon, AZ

  The bucket list-worthy Grand Canyon is practically synonymous with outdoor getaways! Known for its immense natural beauty, you’ll find stunning vistas on almost every trail and around every corner.

  Plus, the park is full of outdoor adventure opportunities. Bring your sturdiest shoes, because the best way to see the awe-inspiring views is by walking or hiking on the park’s many trails.

  If you’d rather stay off your feet, you can take a once-a-lifetime trek down the canyon via one of the canyon’s iconic mule expeditions. Just make sure to book early; they can sell out months in advance!

• Great Smoky Mountains National Park, TN

  Okay, we’ve got a secret for you guys. Outdoor getaways don’t have to be super adventurous!

  You can sit back, relax, check out the wildlife, and skip all the hiking, mountain biking, and kayaking. And maybe it’s due to its Tennessee charm, but the Great Smoky Mountains is the place to do it!

  Sure, they’ve got challenging hiking trails, exhilarating mountain biking, and excellent fishing. But you can also just sit by one of the many cascading waterfalls or lean back and enjoy the tranquil mountain scenery.

  Sunrise and sunset are particularly beautiful, as the smoky haze rolls in and envelops the mountains in its mystic appeal. You’ll leave with your body, mind, and spirit completely recharged.

• Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, HI

  Ready for something completely different? Then we’ve got the hottest (literally!) outdoor spot for you!

  So, let’s get straight to the burning question. Yes, there are active volcanoes and yes, you can see lava flowing from the designated viewing spots!

  Located on the big island of Hawaii, Volcanoes National Park starts at sea level and goes all the way up to almost 14,000 feet. It also includes almost 123,000 acres of wilderness. Plenty of space for intrepid adventurers to explore lush rainforests and ever-changing volcanic landscapes!

  The park is also a fantastic choice for you night owls. The low light pollution and remote location provide exceptional stargazing opportunities. BOYD (date, that is!).

• John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, FL

  Grab your flippers and arm floaties! Located just south of vibrant Miami Beach, Pennekamp State Park is the first underwater park in the U.S.

  The park is famous for its gorgeously vibrant coral reefs, which draw hordes of snorkelers and scuba divers. Just be prepared to share your ocean space with marine life: lazy sea turtles, colorful fish, curious rays, and some… larger… marine species. (Excuse us while we hum the Jaws theme…)

  Whether you rent equipment or join one of the excellent guided tours, make time to explore the Christ of the Abyss, its much-photographed underwater statue.

  Pro Tip: If our mention of Jaws made you pause, there’s always the glass-bottom boat tour!

• Yellowstone National Park, WY

  And we’ll end our list of outdoor getaways with a bang—or an eruption.

  Along with its breathtaking natural beauty, Yellowstone is also known for its jaw-dropping features: bubbling hot springs, rainbow-hued pools, and active geysers. Of course, the most famous geothermal is Old Faithful, a truly heart-thumping can’t-miss sight.

  Yellowstone offers abundant outdoor experiences. From hiking and camping to fishing and boating, if you can do it outdoors, you can probably do it at Yellowstone.

  If you’re more of a nature photographer, though, you’ve come to the right spot for that, too. Yellowstone is home to bountiful wildlife, including bears, wolves, bison, elk, moose, sheep, coyotes, and even the elusive wolverine. Encounters are quick and unexpected, so keep your camera ready!

Ready to “disconnect to reconnect” in the Great Outdoors? Go ahead, pick one of our favorite outdoor getaways, turn off your phone, and explore!

And while you’re figuring out how to maximize your outdoor time, make sure you include shipping your luggage to your final destination with LugLess. Skip baggage claim and head right to where you want to be: surrounded by nature.