The Manchester-Nashua, NH metro area ranked as the country’s hottest housing market for the eighth month in a row.
Prices fell nationally but the month’s hottest markets saw moderate price growth (+3.3%) due to high demand and scarce for-sale inventory.
The Northeast and the Midwest were the only regions on this month’s list with 9 and 12 markets, respectively. August’s list is the 11th in a row that only contains Northeast and Midwest markets.
The Las Vegas metro area saw the biggest jump in its hotness ranking among large US metros compared to last year, climbing 67 spots to rank as the 169th hottest US market in August.
The Manchester-Nashua, N.H. metro area ranked as the country’s hottest housing market in August for the 29th time in the data’s history. This Boston-adjacent metro has been red-hot since March 2021, ranking among the top 3 markets each month for more than 3 years. The area’s hotness means that high demand is met with low inventory as buyers claim available homes. The area has not seen any significant shift in buyer attention, which means that inventory has not been able to recover. This dynamic has kept time on market quick and competition fierce, which continues to feed market hotness.
Realtor.com’s Market Hotness rankings take into account two aspects of the housing market: 1) market demand, as measured by unique views per property on Realtor.com, and 2) the pace of the market as measured by the number of days a listing remains active on Realtor.com.
Price Growth Moderates in Hottest Markets
Both price growth and demand outpace the national trend in the hottest markets. Home prices fell 1.3% year-over-year nationally in August, but the hottest markets saw still-climbing prices. Price growth in the hottest markets moderated from 5.9% in July to an average 3.3% in August, the third month in a row of shrinking price growth. Demand, as measured by views per property, was 2.5 times the national level in the hottest markets in August, down slightly from the previous month.
This month’s hottest market, Manchester-Nashua, N.H., saw 3.3 times the listing viewership as was typical in the U.S. in August. Despite still-high demand, prices fell 1.3% year-over-year in the metro, though price-per-square-foot still increased slightly.
While active listings were up 35.8% year-over-year nationally in August, the hottest markets saw more subdued listing growth. On average, the 20 hottest markets saw inventory increase 20.3% year-over-year in August. Inventory was roughly 26% below pre-pandemic levels in August nationally, but the hottest markets saw an average 58% decrease in inventory in the same time period.
High demand and scarce inventory conditions drive views-per-property higher, upping the competition for homes in the hottest markets, and leading to snappier home sales. Homes in the hottest markets sold at the same pace as last year but spent about 3 weeks less on the market than typical nationally, with homes in these locales spending just 32 days on the market.
Who’s In
All but six markets on the August Hottest Housing Markets list were also on July’s list. La Crosse-Onalaska, Wis.-Minn., and Erie, Pa., jumped from 35th and 39th to 10th and 15th, respectively. Though these two markets jumped the most, Columbus, OH, Dayton, OH, Lancaster, PA, Milwaukee, WI, and Toledo, OH also ascended into the top 20 this month.
Looking at which of the 300 ranked markets climbed the most year-over-year reveals that Sioux Falls, SD (96 spots hotter), Bloomington, IL (87 spots hotter), and St. Cloud, MN (83 spots hotter) have picked up popularity compared to last year.
Who’s Out
Six markets fell out of the top 20 from June’s list, but none fell very far. Syracuse, NY, Reading, PA, Springfield, IL, Peoria, IL and Rochester, NY fell to ranks ranging from 23 to 53, retaining substantial hotness despite their fall. These areas remained popular, emphasizing the recent draw of Midwest and Northeast metros, which have dominated the list since February 2022.
Looking instead at which metros have fallen the furthest over the last year reveals a mix of southern and western that have fallen from popularity. The metros that have fallen the furthest include Albany, GA (153 spots lower), Mobile, AL (109 spots lower), Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater, FL (108 spots lower), and Wichita Falls, TX (107 spots lower).
The largest 40 markets across the country did not ascend the hotness ranks, on average, compared to last year. This is the first month that large markets have not heated up annually since January 2023. Nevertheless, these areas pulled in 5.2% more views per listing than was typical in the U.S. in August, and homes spent 8 fewer days on the market than the U.S. median. Prices fell an average 1.5% in these markets, the second month of large-market average annual decline in the data’s history.
Large markets are starting to adjust to subdued buyer demand by lowering home prices and selling lower-priced homes. Some of the slowing price growth both nationally and in the largest market is due to a change in the mix of inventory for sale. Affordable inventory continues to climb, with roughly 46% more homes priced between $200k and $350k on the market nationally compared to one year ago.
Are you planning the ultimate West Coast vacation this year? Before you jump immediately to Hollywood or San Francisco, take a minute to discover some hidden gems perched along the western shore. Whether you’re after relaxation or adventure, this region has more than its fair share of totally underappreciated destinations. The following West Coast spots may not be the talk of your social media feed, but they are guaranteed to make a lasting impression.
Bishop, California
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Bishop is perfectly situated between the Sierra Nevada mountains to the west and the White Mountains to the east and provides just the right amount of small-town charm with exhilarating outdoor recreation opportunities. Rock climbers especially flock to the region for its outdoor opportunities. While Bishop is just four hours from the metropolis cities of Los Angeles, Las Vegas, and Reno, the urban influence is absent. We recommend meandering through the charming town, taking in the dramatic landscape, fishing for trout in the cold, clear creeks, and soaking your troubles away in local hot springs.
San Juan Islands, Washington
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Experience island time without the crowds in the temperate climate of the San Juan Islands, just off the coast of mainland Washington. There are 172 named islands in the San Juans, but the largest and most populated include San Juan Island, Orcas Island, and Lopez Island. On Lopez Island, you’ll discover 63 miles of gorgeous shoreline and a thoroughly rural community. San Juan Island is known for its bustling Friday Harbor, with a fabulous downtown and boutique shopping. Orcas Island has been called the Emerald Isle and will enchant you with beautiful parks, lakes, and hiking trails. Washington State Ferry Service connects the three major islands, so there’s no need to choose just one when you plan your visit.
North Cascades National Park, Washington
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Another Washington gem, North Cascades National Park is free to visit and includes rugged, alpine hiking trails, vast turquoise lakes, cascading waterfalls, and more than 300 glaciers. Located less than three hours from urban Seattle, it’s hard to believe that North Cascades is one of the least-visited national parks in the United States. We recommend creating your home base at a waterfront campsite at Colonial Creek Campground and exploring the vast array of hiking trails the park has to offer. If you fancy a road trip, be sure to check out the Cascade Loop, which meanders from the coast through the mountains on some of the country’s most scenic highways.
Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, Oregon
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Looking for a different type of beach vacation? Head to one of the largest stretches of coastal dunes in the world at Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area. Stretching 40 miles along the Oregon Coast, from Florence to Coos Bay, the Oregon Dunes are the perfect spot for adventure and solitude. Many of the trails in this 31,000-acre wilderness are suitable for off-road vehicles, horses, and mountain bikes. Sandboards are available to rent throughout the area, and you’ll also find long stretches of deserted beach, expansive wetlands for paddling and bird watching, and forests shrouded in mist. Pitch your tent at one of the many campsites along the dunes, or find cozier lodging in nearby Florence.
Pismo Beach, California
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Perfectly situated halfway between Los Angeles and San Francisco is a classic beach town with a whole lot of charm. Pismo Beach has it all — cotton-candy skies, boutique shopping, an award-winning boardwalk, and of course, long stretches of gorgeous coastline. Spend your days on the golf course, on horseback, or relaxing on the beach, and your nights sipping artisanal wine and dining on local seafood at one of the many waterfront restaurants. Be sure to check out the Pismo Beach Monarch Butterfly Grove, where thousands of butterflies come to spend the winter. Whether you want to take it slow or embark on a wild adventure, Pismo Beach may become your favorite West Coast destination.
Allyn Maycumber Broker/Associate ERA Grizzard Realty Mount Dora Florida 407-467-3862 Amaycumber@ERAgrizzard.com
There’s nothing sweeter than spending a vacation down south. The Southern states are home to some of the best cities to listen to live music, eat a hearty meal, learn about American history, get pumped about sports, and feel welcome. It’s easy to spend some extended time in cities like Nashville, Atlanta, Charleston, New Orleans, Asheville, or Savannah, but don’t forget about these eight Southern cities that have just as much charm.
Only a 30-minute drive from Atlanta, the city of Marietta often gets overlooked by people headed to the Georgia Aquarium or the World of Coca-Cola. With a charming town square, Marietta is rich with history — American literature lovers can see book and movie memorabilia, including original costumes, at the Gone With the Wind Museum and history buffs can learn more about the Civil War at nearby Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park. Later, you can treat yourself to a burger and shake from Marietta Diner (which was featured on Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives) and an ice-cold beer from Red Hare Brewing Company before catching a flick at the historic Strand Theatre.
If you’re dreaming of taking in a dip in the calmer waters of the Outer Banks of North Carolina, make sure you spend time in the port city of Wilmington. The historic Riverwalk winds nearly two miles around the Cape Fear River and is home to many boutiques, art galleries, cafés, seafood restaurants, and bars. The city also boasts the Atlantic’s oldest pier, Kure Beach Fishing Pier. You’ll also see many horse-drawn carriages and old Victorian homes — making the city reminiscent of Charleston or Savannah but with fewer crowds. In the summer, from Memorial Day to Labor Day weekend, don’t miss the rides and other amusement attractions at the Carolina Beach Boardwalk Amusement Park.
Greenville has been getting some buzz lately, but not nearly enough. It’s impossible to have a bad time in this smaller South Carolina city. Set in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains, the area features a suspension bridge walkway past a waterfall, several notable art museums, a literal underground coffee shop, an outdoor amphitheater for concerts, breweries, and so much more. Many young people hailing from nearby Clemson University call the city home, so the nightlife is never dull.
The Gulf Coast city of Fairhope has breathtaking views of Mobile Bay, but you’ve probably never heard of this underrated city in Alabama. No trip down South would be complete without indulging in a hearty homestyle breakfast and wandering through an antique store, so make sure you head to Panini Pete’s for a flaky beignet and Copper Room Antiques to peruse for vintage treasures. The Mobile-Tensaw Delta is only a 30-minute drive from Fairhope and is one of the most diverse ecosystems in the country. Visitors can experience the natural beauty firsthand by canoeing or paddleboarding through the delta along the Bartram Canoe Trail.
Nicknamed the “Apple Capital of Georgia,” Ellijay is especially lively in the summer when visitors cool off in Carters Lake. Come October, the city transforms when it hosts the annual Georgia Apple Festival. Welcoming visitors with hiking trails through the Blue Ridge Mountains, farmstands selling local produce, wineries, a historic downtown, and cabin rentals aplenty, Ellijay is a stunning place to access the great outdoors and get a little rest with friends and family.
Considered the heart of Louisiana’s Creole and Cajun Country, Lafayette is home to a melting pot of cultures — boasting lively nightlife, history, and art museums, and arguably some of the best food in America (be sure to try crawfish étouffée, jambalaya, and gumbo with andouille sausage). You can sample the best of Cajun cuisine from select restaurants on an official Cajun Food Tour of the city, and learn about the French-speaking Acadian people from Canada who settled in Louisiana in the 1700s and formed Cajun culture at the Jean Lafitte Acadian Cultural Center and LARC’s Acadian Village. The city is also a great base for taking boat tours through the Atchafalaya Basin, the largest wetland and swamp in the United States.
Many people miss Raleigh in favor of Charlotte or Asheville, but this North Carolina city has just as much to offer and then some. For starters, the city has an official Beer Trail with over 30 participating breweries that will stamp your passport so you can earn prizes. You’ll also find one of the oldest operating amusement parks in the world here, Pullen Park. Museums are also a must — the North Carolina metropolis boasts the North Carolina Museum of Art and the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences. Raleigh is also home to North Carolina State University, which means the city is a lively tailgating scene come fall. However, visitors can kick back at two spacious food halls, Morgan Street Food Hall and Transfer Co. Food Hall, year-round.
Whether you prefer the version by Darius Rucker or the one by Old Crow Medicine Show, you might remember the reference to good old Johnson City, Tennessee, in the classic song “Wagon Wheel.” The Southern city nestled in the Appalachian Mountains rose in popularity when it earned the nickname “Little Chicago” for its speakeasies and secret alleyways used for smuggling alcohol during Prohibition. Its Roaring 20s history is still evident today, with many hole-in-the-wall establishments like Capone’s, a pub with live music inspired by the famous mobster who is believed to have frequented the area. Celebrate the city’s past at the Little Chicago Arts and Music Festival. When you’ve had enough fun exploring downtown, put on your hiking shoes. Johnson City is also just as outdoorsy as Asheville — it’s home to natural wonders such as the Appalachian Caverns, Boone Lake, Blue Hole Falls, and Davy Crocket Birthplace State Park — to name just a few.
One needn’t journey far to find a little magic. From actual castles to charming villages to places inspired by legend, plenty of stateside spots embody that fairytale feeling. If you’re hoping to bring some sparkle, joy, or intrigue into your travels, read on to discover nine fairytale destinations you can visit here in the U.S.
The Biltmore, North Carolina
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The crown jewel of Asheville, the Biltmore Estate is more akin to a European castle than a southern estate. Since George and Edith Vanderbilt built the Gilded Age mansion, it drips with the grandeur of old money royalty. The grounds, filled with manicured gardens and tranquil walking trails, are as enchanting as the palace. To save the best for last, head to the conservatory at the end of your day. With its glass-roofed building, blooming exotic plants, and model train system, this indoor garden transports you to another world.
Crater Lake, Oregon
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Witnessing Crater Lake in person feels otherworldly, but did you know the famed geological phenomenon is also based in legend? The Klamath people, a Native American tribe of southern Oregon, have maintained a 7,000-year-old oral tradition about the lake’s formation. According to Klamath lore, the lake was created during a battle between two dueling worlds. The legend also claims that looking upon the lake may cause premature death. Of course, many people have witnessed Crater Lake and lived to tell the tale, which is lucky since this is one natural wonder you won’t want to miss.
Ice Castles, Utah
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The Ice Castles of Midway, Utah, embody a winter wonderland. Visiting these cavernous, handmade icicle forts feels like walking into a fairytale of the Frozen variety — a detail that makes it family-friendly. Kids will love exploring the frozen crevices and playing on the slippery slides made entirely of ice. Adults will be enchanted by the beauty of the blue icicles and the nighttime show of lights. The temperatures will be frosty regardless of your age, so dress appropriately.
Sleepy Hollow, New York
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If you love a good scary story, a visit to Sleepy Hollow, New York, maybe in order. In 1819, this small village inspired Washington Irving to write his famous short story, “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow.” Although Ichabod Crane and the headless horseman are fictional, the modern-day village of Sleepy Hollow continues to embrace its mythical past. If this sounds up your alley, make your pilgrimage during the fall. From October to November, Philipsburg Manor hosts the Horseman’s Hollow, a weekly event that recreates the ghostly tale and includes a spooky tour of the nearby cemetery.
Not only does Boldt Castle look like a fairytale castle, but it’s also based on a fairytale romance. The castle was built by George C. Boldt for his beloved wife Louise and was meant to be a romantic summertime paradise on the St. Lawrence River. Sadly, not all fairytales have happy endings — Mrs. Boldt passed away unexpectedly before the house was finished. Mr. Boldt ordered construction to stop, and the beautiful estate remained empty for 73 years. On a happier note, the castle was rehabilitated for the public in the 1970s, and visitors can tour the castle and its grounds today.
Pipiwai Trail, Hawaii
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Located in Maui’s Haleakalā National Park, Pipiwai Trail is nothing short of magical. The two-mile trail meanders over footbridges, past waterfalls, and through forestland. Photo opportunities include a massive banyan tree straight out of a storybook and the ethereal bamboo forest looming into the sky. The trail ends at Waimoku Falls, a 400-foot-high waterfall that cascades over a sheer rock cliff. This hike will make you feel very far from home in the best way possible.
Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
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If your favorite fairytale involves sandy beaches, warm breezes, and a glass of fine wine, Carmel-by-the-Sea is for you. Located along the coast of central California, this seaside village has heaps of Old World charm. In place of street addresses, residential homes go by names like “Nutcracker” and “Rosebud Cottage.” The downtown Tudor-style architecture resembles real-life gingerbread houses, which gives the place a refreshing air of whimsy. Best of all, the residents are welcoming, and the village is pet-friendly. It’s the kind of place you may never want to leave.
Sitka, Alaska
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It’s reasonable to say that Alaska, with its soaring mountains and pristine landscapes, feels like a faraway land in a fairytale. But Sitka, a seaside village on Baranof Island, may have an edge over the rest of the state. The village culture is an assortment of Russian, American, and Tlingit tribe traditions, which gives the town its delightfully quirky vibe. From the New Archangel Dancers of the Russian tradition to the Totem Trail, a one-mile forest walk lined with totem poles, the town’s diversity makes it thoroughly enchanting to outsiders.
Skagit Valley, Washington
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If walking through fields of blooming tulips isn’t on your bucket list, it certainly should be. Every April, the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival turns the landscape of northern Washington into a rainbow. Whether or not you’re a flower fanatic, the region’s brilliant blooms and staggering peaks will make you feel like you’ve found the proverbial pot of gold. If you have the time, the festival hosts many fun events all month, from bike tours to barbecues to chili cook-offs. Touring famous farms such as RoozenGaarde and Tulip Town should also be in order, but be prepared for large crowds on the weekend.
Allyn Maycumber Broker/Associate ERA Grizzard Mount Dora Florida 32757 407-467-3862
Well-known landmarks and familiar destinations inevitably draw hordes of tourists, resulting in big crowds, expensive lodging, and hard-to-get reservations. Luckily, there are still plenty of amazing places in the U.S. that remain under the radar on the tourist scene, making them less busy and more affordable. Whether you’re looking to spend a night under the stars or in search of a fun city escape, there are benefits to opting for a less-crowded destination.
The Finger Lakes region of upstate New York is an underrated wine region, known for its Riesling and Gewurztraminer. Named for their narrow, finger-like shapes, these lakes were carved out by glaciers 10,000 years ago, leaving behind lakes, gorges, and waterfalls in their wake. One such waterfall is found in Taughannock Falls State Park, named for its 215-foot waterfall, framed by 400-foot cliffs. Hiking trails provide impressive viewpoints of the falls from several overlooks. The adventure doesn’t end when the snow falls. This park is open year-round, boasting cross-country skiing trails, sled riding hills, and skating ponds. Taughannock Creek feeds into Cayuga Lake, an outstanding place to camp or stay in a vacation rental while visiting the region.
Often overshadowed by ski resort towns like Big Sky and Whitefish, Helena is one of the most underrated state capitals in the country. Touted as the “Queen of the Rockies,” Helena has been the heart of Montana ever since a mining boom in the mid-19th century. Stop by the nearby Elkhorn Ghost Town, an abandoned silver mine, for a look at what life was once like for these Western miners. Downtown, the Montana State Capitol is open for visitors to marvel at this sandstone and granite masterpiece, which was erected in 1902. Helena also boasts one of the largest city park systems in the country, comprising over 1,000 acres. Visitors can enjoy history museums, hiking trails, craft breweries, and art galleries in this mountain metropolis.
Congaree National Park is one of the South’s best-kept secrets — it was among the least visited national parks of 2022. Its former name, “Congaree Swamp National Monument,” might be partially to blame for this, but the park is not actually a swamp. It’s a floodplain forest and is the largest remaining area of Southern bottomland hardwoods in the country. This flooded forest is otherworldly, and the best way to see it is on the Cedar Creek Canoe Trail, a 15-mile marked canoe and kayak trail. See river otters, turtles, and even alligators during your adventure. For a more leisurely visit, walk the 2.6-mile Boardwalk Loop Trail among the bald cypress and tupelo trees.
Maine isn’t called “Vacationland” for nothing — in the warmer months, tourists flock to this northeastern state for fresh lobster and the rocky Atlantic coastline. Many of these tourists head straight to Acadia National Park on Mount Desert Island (MDI). Unfortunately, Acadia’s popularity usually results in packed campgrounds, overcrowded hiking trails, and traffic jams on park roads. A great alternative is the little-known Schoodic Peninsula, a remote section of Acadia that’s an hour away from MDI. Despite its large campground, coastal and forested trails for hiking, and unspoiled views of the ocean over pink granite headlands, the Schoodic Peninsula is far less crowded, making it an ideal destination in the height of summer.
As one of the least visited states in the country, it’s no surprise that South Dakota is home to some highly underrated destinations that many travelers have yet to explore. Mount Rushmore and the nearby Badlands National Park might be the crown jewels of this state’s tourism circuit, but continue southwest toward the Black Hills and you’ll find an equally impressive 71,000-acre nature preserve known as Custer State Park. Here, granite rock faces rise from rolling green hills as hiking trails meander through untamed forests. Keep your eyes peeled for native bison while out hiking or driving — around 1,300 of them live inside the park. For some of the best views of bison and other Custer Park residents (such as bighorn sheep and elk), take the 18-mile Wildlife Loop Road at the southern end of the park.
Even though the town of Pecos is a mere 30 minutes from Santa Fe, Pecos National Historical Park is relatively unknown. But don’t let its lack of renown fool you — Pecos is a true hidden gem. In the shadow of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, and bordered by Glorieta Mesa and the Pecos River, the region offers an incredible intersection of Southwestern history and Indigenous culture. Home to the spectacular ruins of a former Mission church, Pecos also features two reconstructed kivas (underground ceremonial chambers), which can be accessed via a one-mile loop through the park. And since Pecos is one of the least visited parks in the U.S., the trail and the rest of the park’s trappings are almost certain to be crowd-free.
When you hear the phrase, “the home of country music,” what city comes to mind? Likely Nashville, or even Memphis, but according to the U.S. Congress, the answer is Bristol. This quintessential Blue Ridge Mountain town was designated as the official birthplace of country music by Congress in 1998, and you can learn all about this history at the Birthplace of Country Music Museum. This Tennessee-Virginia border town is also home to the Bristol Motor Speedway which has hosted NASCAR races since the 1960s. Visitors can also take advantage of Bristol’s ample outdoor activities. Adventure-seekers might visit Bristol Caverns for a thrilling 180-foot descent through three levels of caverns leading to an underground river on the cavern floor.
Since it’s more remote than the rest of Michigan, the Upper Peninsula (also known as the U.P.) is less of a tourist draw than other parts of the state. But the region’s thick forests, fresh lakes, and spectacular coastline are reason enough to make the trek up north. With the exception of Mackinac Island, much of the U.P. is blissfully devoid of crowds, making it an ideal place to explore. As it’s a peninsula surrounded by three Great Lakes, many of the U.P.’s offerings are related to water, such as paddling around Les Cheneaux Islands or taking a cruise to see the iconic cliffs along Lake Superior. For a memorable wilderness experience, camping in Isle Royale National Park offers a chance to experience true solitude in this far-flung northern region.
With a name like Dead Horse Point, it’s no wonder that this Utah state park isn’t teeming with people. But don’t let the name fool you — both the point and the park are worth a visit, providing incredible vistas of the dramatic southern Utah landscape. Although it’s a short drive from two popular national parks — Arches and Canyonlands — Dead Horse State Park isn’t on most people’s travel radar. However, Dead Horse is just as beautiful as its national park counterparts, with far fewer visitors. With miles of biking and walking trails and yurts to rent overnight, the park also provides a one-of-a-kind experience for people who like to travel outside of the box.
The World’s Most Beautiful Reservoirs
There’s nothing like visiting a pretty lake while you’re traveling — but sometimes, everything isn’t quite what it seems. Some of the world’s most breathtaking bodies of water are actually artificial additions to the landscape. Though they’re invaluable as a source of water for agricultural, industrial, or domestic purposes, they often create a plethora of opportunities for leisure, too. Here are some of the world’s most beautiful reservoirs.
There are a slew of reasons why Guatapé is on Colombia’s tourist trail. The houses are decorated with brightly colored bas-reliefs, for one, and a 65-million-year-old lump of granite known as the Piedra del Peñol promises extraordinary views to those who make it up the roughly 600 steps to the top. Without a doubt, however, one of the highlights of that panorama is the Embalse El Peñol-Guatapé, a huge reservoir created in the 1970s as a result of a hydroelectric power station. On a sunny day, you’ll see jet skis, speed boats, canoes, and kayaks out on the lake. It’s also a mecca for water sports enthusiasts, who come here for both the thrill of wakeboarding and water skiing and more relaxing pursuits, such as paddleboarding and fishing.
The ancient Ananuri Fortress complex, a collection of castle and church buildings, is located along the Georgian Military Highway and overlooks a large, gorgeous lake. But this body of water is a reservoir created in the 1980s (when the country was part of the Soviet Union) to both address the need for irrigation and to provide water for Tbilisi’s residents. The Zhinvali dam was built across the Aragvi Gorge, submerging the 12th-century Church of the Holy Cross. If you’re there when the water level is low, climb the castle walls and see if you can spot the top of the church peeking above the water.
Travel to the Austrian resort of Kaprun between June and October if you’re keen to see the Wasserfallboden and Mooserboden, collectively known as the High Mountain Reservoirs. To reach these artificial Alpine lakes, you need to board the seasonal Lärchwand inclined lift. At the top, hike the educational Electricity Trail or visit Electricity Adventure World, where you’ll find out more about the connections between the glacier, power plant construction, and electricity generation. If you have a head for heights, you can admire the water from above by scaling one of several via Ferratas.
The Cascada Los Tercios waterfall and the viewpoint over Lake Suchitlán is only a half an hour’s walk from the sleepy town of Suchitoto. Locals call this body of water Cerrón Grande Reservoir because it came about as a result of the construction of the Cerrón Grande Hydroelectric Power Plant on the Lempa River. Though it provides much-needed electricity for El Salvador, it’s also an important wetland habitat, attracting migratory birds and supporting a wide range of aquatic plants such as water lilies. Lake Suchitlán is also a popular fishing spot, as well as an ideal place to stroll, kayak, paddleboard, or rent a boat.
One of the first things you’ll notice when you visit Lake Jocassee is how clear its waters are – after all, it’s fed by streams from the Appalachian Mountains. Yet there’s nothing natural about the lake itself. In fact, this sprawling reservoir didn’t exist before Duke Energy flooded the Jocassee Valley in the early 1970s to build a hydroelectric power station. As the water level rose, local landmarks, such as the Cemetery of Mount Carmel Baptist Church and the Attakulla Lodge Hotel slipped out of sight. Take in the magnificent view at the Jumping Off Rock lookout. Afterward, admire some of the area’s waterfalls – such as Laurel Fork Falls – on a boat trip, paddle serenely out onto the lake in a kayak, or go for a refreshing swim.
Alberta’s largest reservoir is as blue as the natural mountain lakes in the area — which is to be expected since they all take their color from glacial rock activity. Measuring 20 miles from end to end, Abraham Lake formed after the Bighorn Dam was built in 1972, blocking off the North Saskatchewan River. Handily located close to Banff National Park, roadtrippers will enjoy hugging the lakeshore on the David Thompson Highway, giving them breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains. In winter, the lake is especially beautiful. Frozen bubbles form under the ice in a stack as they rise to the surface, the result of trapped methane released by decaying plants on the lake bed.
Technically, this lake on Iceland’s Reykjanes peninsula is formed from wastewater from the nearby Svartsengi geothermal power station. Chock full of silica, algae, and minerals, it’s unsuitable for drinking water — but perfect for bathing! Locals started to bathe here in the 1980s, and it has been improved and extended over the years to form one of the country’s most luxurious spas. In recent years, this breathtaking artificial lake has been named one of the 25 Wonders of the World by National Geographic and has earned itself a place on Time Magazine’s list of the World’s 100 Greatest Places. Surrounded by moss-covered lava rock formations and with a hauntingly beautiful view of the industrial complex shrouded by steam, this place is one of the most photogenic spots in Iceland.
Allyn Maycumber Broker/Associate ERA Grizzard Mount Dora Florida 407-467-3862
A national historic landmark, the Old Faithful Inn opened in Yellowstone National Park in 1904, with the radiators and electricity fueled by a steam generator. It’s been the most popular place to stay in the park ever since, offering a warm, rustic feel, while still being spectacularly grand. The lobby is particularly impressive with its nearly 80-foot-high ceiling and huge stone fireplace. Rooms line the exterior of the seven-story log building, and each level has a balcony that overlooks the lobby. Some also boast breathtaking views of Old Faithful and the other geysers nearby. They don’t include TVs or Wi-Fi, so this is a perfect opportunity to forget about those electronic devices and just enjoy all that the inn and the park have to offer.
Open only from early May through early October, the inn is the most popular accommodation option in the park, so you’ll want to book your stay well in advance.
America’s national parks offer some of the best places to immerse yourself in nature, with stunning coastal and mountain landscapes that provide the ultimate spot for outdoor adventure. While most national parks offer campgrounds, a select few have hotels or lodges right within their boundaries. If roughing it isn’t something you relish, you’ll want to consider one of these properties, from the protected Alaska wilderness to the exotic shores of Hawaii.
Glacier Bay Lodge – Glacier Bay National Park, Alaska
Glacier Bay Lodge is the only non-camping option for accommodation in Glacier Bay National Park. Open from around Memorial Day Weekend to Labor Day Weekend, it can only be reached by boat or plane. Most visitors take the 35-minute flight from Juneau followed by the lodge shuttle. The effort is worth the reward as you’ll be surrounded by snow-capped mountains, glistening turquoise water, and a wealth of wildlife. The highlight of a stay here is the catamaran tour operated by the lodge that will bring you to the park’s famous glaciers. Along the way, watch for the bald eagles and puffins that soar through the sky; mountain goats, coastal brown bears, and moose that roam the land; and sea lions, sea otters, porpoises, and whales that swim through the water.
The lodge guest rooms are tucked among the spruce trees at Bartlett Cove and include options for bay views. You won’t have access to TVs or Wi-Fi in your room, but you can connect in the lobby, which features a stone fireplace, and a restaurant with floor-to-ceiling windows for dining or unwinding with a magnificent view of the bay.
Lake Quinault Lodge – Olympic National Park, Washington
Located at the edge of Lake Quinault in the western region of lush Olympic National Park, historic Lake Quinault Lodge provides the perfect base for exploring the rainforest and enjoying activities on the lake, with paddleboards, kayaks, and canoes available for rent. Plus, the coast is less than 30 miles away if you want to enjoy the park’s wild stretches of driftwood-strewn beach that’s thrashed by powerful waves. The lodge offers guided boat tours and tours through the rainforest where you’ll watch for black bears while learning about Quinault Indian Nation history.
A variety of lodge rooms are available year-round, including Fireplace Rooms with gas fireplaces and private lake and forest views. All come with TVs and Wi-Fi, while common amenities include an indoor pool, sauna, game rooms, and an outstanding restaurant.
Open every season, The Ahwahnee is an iconic property in one of the most breathtaking national parks in the country, Yosemite. Nestled among the park’s famous dramatic cliffs with sheer granite faces and enchanting waterfalls in Yosemite Valley, it’s hosted everyone from photographer Ansel Adams to Presidents Kennedy and Obama since opening its doors nearly a century ago. Guests are steps from scenic trails that lead to the park’s famous peaks and cascades. Those who prefer to hang around the hotel will enjoy awe-inspiring views from the grounds and through the massive lodge windows of Yosemite Falls, Glacier Point, and Half Dome.
There are two dozen cottages and 97 rooms in the main lodge, ranging from standard to presidential, including the Mary Curry Tresidder Suite where Queen Elizabeth II once slept. While the interior elegantly blends Native American and art deco influences, you’ll have modern amenities, including a flat-screen TV and Wi-Fi.
Volcano House – Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii
Those who are fascinated by volcanoes shouldn’t miss the opportunity to stay at Volcano House. Located inside Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, it offers one of the most stunning views you’ll find in any national park lodge. From the main floor, you’ll be able to watch the fiery glow through the massive windows. The park protects Kilauea volcano, one of the world’s most active, producing some 250,000 to 650,000 cubic yards of lava daily – that’s enough to resurface a two-lane, 20-mile stretch of roadway every day.
Guests who stay at Volcano House will be just a skip and a jump from hiking trails that wind around the edge of the caldera and there are daily guided walking tours available as well. Many of the guest rooms come with volcano views, some have lanais, and all come with Wi-Fi. Dining with a backdrop of the caldera and the crater can be enjoyed at The Rim at Volcano House, which offers an impressive menu of grass-fed beef and fresh-caught fish.
One of the world’s driest places, the Atacama Desert stretches between the Andes Mountains and the Pacific Ocean in Chile. This vast, arid piece of land covers more than 41,000 square miles and encompasses rocky volcanoes, immense salt lakes, and endless rolling dunes. One highlight is the incredible Moon Valley, a cavernous landscape outside San Pedro that earns its name with its pockmarked terrain. The Atacama Desert is also known for its impressive stargazing opportunities — some of the best in the world.
When you think of the desert, you probably envision endless dunes, harsh sunlight, and isolated stretches of nothingness. While there’s plenty of that to go around, American deserts are also about contrast. The desert can be cruel and uninviting, with plenty of hazards. Snakes, spiders, and every manner of spiny plants are common. But so are fields of wildflowers, breathtaking sunsets, and ancient rocky towers that beg to be climbed. Here are 10 American deserts that you should not only know but thoroughly explore.
Baja California Desert
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You can find the Baja California Desert in the Mexican states of Baja California and Baja California Sur. The desert covers much of the Baja Peninsula’s western slope, but its proximity to the Pacific Ocean moderates the temperature, making the landscape a bit more hospitable to plants, animals, and people. Beachside resorts, bustling towns, and a vibrant tourism economy make the Baja California Desert a popular destination for vacationers who flock to spots like Espiritu Santo Island for some fun in the sun
Chihuahuan Desert
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The massive Chihuahuan Desert encompasses more than 175,000 square miles and covers most of West Texas, as well as parts of New Mexico, Arizona, and parts of the Mexican Plateau. It is one of the most biologically diverse deserts in the world, playing host to over a thousand species of plants and animals. Spot flowering cacti, shrub-covered valleys, and sandy dunes within its borders. Highlights include Big Bend National Park and Guadalupe Mountains National Park in Texas and Carlsbad Caverns National Park in New Mexico.
Colorado Desert
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California’s Colorado Desert covers more than 7 million acres and is part of the much larger Sonoran Desert. The desert enjoys warmer temperatures than other, higher-elevation deserts, meaning you won’t find normally snow dusting this landscape. Wildlife is plentiful throughout the region and includes deer, jackrabbits, bobcats, and the rare desert tortoise. There are many state and national parks in the region, including Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, which is known for its wildflower blooms.
Great Basin Desert
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The Great Basin is a temperate desert, with hot, dry summers and cold, snowy winters. The desert covers most of Nevada, as well as parts of western Utah, eastern California, and Idaho. The Great Basin is a land of geographical contrasts, playing host to more than 33 mountain peaks over 9,800 feet, as well as pinyon-juniper forests, high valleys, and deep canyons. The Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest protects many wilderness areas with the Great Basin, providing endless recreation opportunities. Some highlights include Great Basin National Park in Nevada, which gives visitors a taste of the diverse landscapes found throughout this beautiful desert landscape, and the rainbow-hued Fly Geyser.
La Guajira Desert
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Located in northern Colombia and Venezuela, the La Guajira Desert is populated by xeric scrubland that reaches the ocean. The region is home to indigenous Wayuu people and is rich in culture and history. The La Guajira Desert and the surrounding landscapes are wild and isolated, and although tourism is increasing, it is largely focused on a few small pockets of the immense landscape. The extremely isolated Macuira National Nature Park, for example, is like an oasis in the desert and is known for its diversity of bird populations as well as its mountainous terrain.
Mojave Desert
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The driest desert in North America is located in the southwestern United States and is often characterized by the presence of spiky Joshua Trees, which are native only to the Mojave Desert. In addition, the desert supports 2,000 plant species and many many species of animals. Covering less than 50,000 square miles, the Mojave is one of North America’s smallest desert communities, but it packs a punch. Here you’ll find Death Valley National Park, the hottest, driest, and lowest national park in the U.S., and Las Vegas, the largest metropolitan area in the Mojave Desert. In addition, visitors can explore several abandoned ghost towns, as well as the gold-mining town of Oatman, Arizona, which sits along historic Route 66.
Patagonian Desert
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Encompassing more than 260,000 square miles, the Patagonian Desert can be found primarily in Argentina with some areas stretching into Chile. Bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the east and the Andes Mountains to the west, the desert is home to many distinct ecosystems, including grasslands, deep river canyons, and wide steppes. Unlike many American deserts, the climate here is often cold, although it rarely snows. The opportunities for recreation in Patagonia are endless, and it is widely known as a mecca for trekkers and climbers. For a real adventure, consider road-tripping on the long and winding Route 40, which brings you through the desert, but also past lush forests, towering mountains, and crystal lakes.
Sechura Desert
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Located along the Pacific Ocean in Peru, the barren and beautiful Sechura Desert is one of the driest places in the world. Summers are warm and sunny, with temperatures often reaching 95 degrees Fahrenheit. Winters are more temperate but rarely cold. This is a largely lifeless desert — bleak, isolated, and characterized by endless stretches of dunes. The desert’s biggest claim to fame are the Nazca Lines, a series of ancient etchings in the desert’s barren, flat terrain.
Sonoran Desert
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The Sonoran Desert covers more than 100,000 miles of the American Southwest, including large parts of southern Arizona, southern California, and Mexico. This biologically diverse area is most recognizable for its famous Saguaro and organ pipe cacti, but it also plays host to more than 350 species of birds, 60 mammals, and 120 reptiles and amphibians. Protected natural areas are plentiful in the Sonoran Desert and include Saguaro National Park,Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, and Sonoran Desert National Monument, all in southern Arizona.
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Cheaha Mountain is the dominant feature of Cheaha State Park, itself one of Alabama’s oldest state parks. The Creek Indians named the mountain ‘Cheaha’, meaning high place, an apt name for the highest elevation point in the state. At the summit is the Bunker Tower observation tower, from where visitors can enjoy views of granite boulders, wind-weathered trees, and the Appalachian Mountains. The tower, along with other structures scattered around the park, was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930s.
Rising majestically above its eponymous national park and preserve, Denali is the highest point in both the United States and North America. It forms part of the 600-mile-long Alaska Range between Alaska and Canada. Some people consider Denali to be the world’s coldest mountain due to strong winds and temperatures that have been known to drop to -93 degrees Fahrenheit. The landmark was called Mount Mckinley for almost a century, before changing to the local Koyukon people’s name for it (which means “the Great One”) in 2015.
Situated in the Kachina Peaks Wilderness of the Coconino National Forest, Humphreys Peaks is the tallest point of a group of dormant volcanoes called the San Francisco Peaks in northern Arizona. On clear days, views from the summit reach as far as other state landmarks such as the Grand Canyon, Painted Desert, Oak Creek Canyon, and the Hopi Mesas. A notable feature around the peak is the presence of bristlecone pines. Scientists believe that this resilient tree can outlive any other known living organism.
The flat-topped Magazine Mountain is a natural habitat for rare butterflies, including the bright orange Diana fritillary. What’s more, an incredible 94 of the state’s 134 butterfly species inhabit the mountain. Two stories exist about the origin of the mountain’s name. One by English botanist Thomas Nuttall states that French hunters thought it resembled an ammunition storehouse (magazine). Another suggests that French explorers mistook a landslide for the sound of an ammunition explosion.
The tallest mountain in the “lower 48 states” and the highest point in the USA outside of Alaska is Mount Whitney. Characterized by its jagged ridges, this imposing mountain stands at the border of Sequoia National Park and Inyo National Forest. This is one of the most popular climbing and hiking destinations in the Sierra Nevada, with the shortest route being just over 10 miles. It’s also a common stopover for those walking all or parts of the iconic Pacific Crest Trail.
Being a state traversed by the Rocky Mountains and famous for its ski resorts, it seems right that Colorado is home to one of the highest points in the continental United States. Mt. Elbert is the tallest peak in the Rockies and the 14th tallest in the country. Yet, despite its imposing size, with correct acclimatization, it’s recognized as a relatively easy mountain to climb. Five routes lead to the summit and those that make it to the top can enjoy views of other mighty state landmarks like the aptly named Mt. Massive.
Located at the tri-state border of Connecticut, New York, and Massachusetts, Mt. Frissell is a peak in the Taconic Range. While the summit (2,453 feet) is in Massachusetts, the south slope of the mountain marks the highest point in Connecticut. It’s crossed by the Mount Frissell Trail, which links up with the long-distance Appalachian Trail. Curiously, the mountain is the state’s highest point but not its highest summit – that honor goes to Bear Mountain (with a summit of 2,316 feet).
Not all state high points are cloudbusting mountains. Part of the Atlantic Coastal Plain, Delaware is distinguished by its flat terrain. Ebright Azimuth is a geodetic benchmark monument on a road near the city of Wilmington. When the Delaware Geological Survey confirmed the highpoint, it closed a long-running debate over whether this point or Centerville (446 feet) was the state’s highest elevation. Perched on the edge of the road, you won’t find much here except a sign and a bench to mark the spot.
With much of its topography at or near sea level and also with areas inside the Atlantic Coastal Plain, Florida takes the prize for having the lowest high point in all 50 states. Highpointers have little concern for altitude sickness when visiting Britton Hill, which marks the summit of Lakewood Park in North Walton County. It isn’t the county’s only claim to fame, either. Stricklands Christmas Tree Farm is the birthplace of the Panhandle Opry.
Brasstown Bald is the focal point of the Brasstown Bald Recreation Center. It’s set amid the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests in northeastern Georgia. Visitors to this state highpoint find plenty to do besides enjoying the panoramic views. There are picnic areas, an exhibition hall, a mountaintop theater, and a general store selling local products. Those feeling energetic can also head off on one of three hiking trails.
At the heart of Hawaii’s Big Island is Mauna Kea, a dormant volcano that last erupted over 4,000 years ago. The name translates to ‘white mountain’ and is a reference to the snow that falls on its slope for large parts of the year. As Hawaii’s highest point, Mauna Kea is an important center for scientific and astronomical research. Visitors can get a glimpse of this work via stargazing programs at the Maunakea Visitor Information Station.
Also known as Mount Borah, Borah Peak comes in at number 11 on the list of state high points. Located in the Lost River Range, it’s one of Idaho’s nine peaks that climb above 12,000 feet. Not only is this the tallest point in the state, it’s also its only active glacier. The peak received a boost in height of about one foot in 1983 following a magnitude 6.9 earthquake that hit the range.
Rural northwestern Illinois, otherwise known as the Driftless Area, is the location of Illinois’ highest natural elevation. This region is geographically special because, unlike much of the country, it wasn’t covered by glaciers during the Ice Age. Charles Mound is also one of several high points that are part of private property. For this reason, it’s only accessible during daylight hours on weekends between July and September. Views at the top reach over the sprawling Illinois farm country.
Hoosier Hill is another state highpoint situated on private land. It’s found amid a forest in the midwest farmland near the Indiana-Ohio state line. It was here in 1936 that highpoint Arthur H. Marshall became the first person to visit the highpoint of every state (then 48). At the top of the hill is a mailbox covered in stickers left by the many travelers and high pointers that have visited over the years.
Once a place known only by locals, Hawkeye Point is now a popular and busy roadside stop on U.S. Route 60. The exact high point is marked by a mosaicked compass that portrays the map of Iowa. Directional signs are pointing the way to all the other state high points, an observation deck, and a small hands-on history exhibition. Visitors thirsty for highpoint knowledge can find out more at McCallum Museum Osceola County in Sibley.
A private ranch in the High Plains landscape region of far-western Kansas is the setting for this state’s high point. Despite being a long way from the towering peaks of Colorado, Mount Sunflower has the Rocky Mountains to thank for its height. The High Plains area formed millions of years ago when sand, gravel, and other sediment were brought west from the Rockies by streams. The mount stands 3,300 feet higher than the state’s lowest point.
Covered in northern hardwood forest, Black Mountain rises up from the Cumberland Plateau in the westernmost region of the Appalachian Mountains. Its elevation provides a natural habitat to numerous species of flora and fauna, including black bear and red elderberry. The area around the mountain has long been known for coal mining. Head to the Kentucky Coal Museum, in nearby Lynch, to discover more about the history.
A gentle hike through a forest of pine and hardwood trees and seasonal wildflowers takes high pointers up to peaceful Driskill Mountain. This is the third lowest highpoint in all 50 states. It’s smaller than Louisiana’s tallest building, the 697-foot-tall Hancock Whitney Center in New Orleans. The mountain itself is a landform created by the erosion of unlithified Paleogene sediment.
Mount Katahdin is the centerpiece of sprawling Baxter State Park in north-central Maine. Its name means ‘greatest mountain’ and was chosen by the Penobscot people. Today, the mountain is still deemed sacred by the Maliseet, Micmac, Passamaquoddy, and Penobscot nations. This is the northern terminus of the Appalachian Trail, and the area is famed for its challenging treks. Among the many routes to the summit is the short yet wild Knife Edge Trail.
Maryland’s highest elevation point sits atop Backbone Mountain in the state’s most westerly region. The only way to reach Hoye-Crest is via a hiking trail that begins in neighboring West Virginia. At the summit, there’s a historical marker and a picnic area. Visitors can also grab a certificate from a mailbox here. For more adventure, a short path leads to an obelisk that marks the Maryland-West Virginia state line.
Located in Mount Greylock State Reservation in the state’s northwestern region, Mount Greylock is accessible via a scenic byway that connects the farmland of Lanesborough to the art-loving city of North Adams. Visibility from the summit extends for 90 miles, including into the states of New York and Vermont. There are over 70 miles of hiking trails to explore plus cross-country skiing, snowmobile tours, and a museum.
Mount Arvon is one of the must-see sights of the Huron Mountains in Michigan’s rural Upper Peninsula. The state’s official highpoint since 1982, it took the crown from Mount Curwood when the U.S. Geological Survey deemed it to be 11 inches taller. A highlight of a trip to this mountain in picturesque Baraga County is the bird’s-eye view of Lake Superior. In winter, the summit is reachable by snowmobile or snowshoes only.
Eagle Mountain stands deep inside Minnesotra’s Superior National Forest and is accessed along the 7-mile-long round-trip Eagle Mountain Trail. The trail traverses the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness and as such is a wild route and often overgrown. Self-issue permits are required to hike the trail and are obtainable at the trailhead. Confusingly, there’s another Eagle Mountain in north Minnesota which is part of Lutsen Mountains ski resort.
Just outside the city of Iuka in Mississippi’s northeastern Tishomingo County, Woodall Mountain has the honor of being recognized as the “bloodiest highpoint in the United States.” On September 19, 1862, the mountain was the site of the Civil War Battle of Iuka. During the fight, General William S Rosecran’s Union troops defeated the Confederates, led by General Sterling Price. A plaque at the summit provides details of the battle.
Head to the top of Taum Sauk Mountain State Park to stand at the highest point of Missouri. Set amid the St. Francois Mountains, the scenery of the 7,500-acre park is characterized by dense woodland and rocky glades. A lookout tower at the summit affords panoramic views of southern Missouri’s lush countryside. Several trails lead to and around Taum Sauk Mountain – Mina Sauk Falls Trail connects to the state’s tallest waterfall, 132-foot Mina Sauk Falls.
Isolated and imposing Granite Peak is everything that one should expect of a mountain. It’s the pinnacle of the Beartooth Range in south-central Montana. It’s also one of 28, 12,000-foot peaks in the Absaroka Beartooth Wilderness, which spreads from the state into Wyoming. The climb to the top is a challenging one and is considered among Montana’s most adventurous treks. After several failed attempts, the first recorded ascent was in 1923.
Wondrous views of big skies, far-reaching prairies, and three states are the reward for making it to Panorama Point. This high point is part of Nebraska’s High Plains and in an area peppered with cattle ranches and farms. It’s located on a private ranch, thus a fee is required and visitors are warned to look out for free-roaming bison. Two Nebraska locals discovered the hill in 1951 using a World War I altimeter.
Boundary Peak in Boundary Peak Wilderness is the ninth highest state point in the U.S. From the top it’s possible to see as far as landmarks such as Mono Lake in California and the Sierra Nevada Mountains. The peak stands at the northern end of the White Mountains and forms a twin peak with California’s Montgomery Peak. A variety of plants thrive around the wilderness, including alpine tundra, bristlecone pine trees, and juniper woodlands.
New Hampshire’s highest point is northeast North America’s tallest mountain. Mount Washington is known as Agiocochook by Native Americans, who believe it to be the home of the Great Spirit. The Mount Washington Cog Railway trundles through Mount Washington State Park to the top. Here, the Sherman Adams Visitor Center houses a cafe, museum, and observatory. Clear days afford views into Maine, Vermont, Massachusetts, and New York.
In northern New Jersey, the appropriately named High Point is the state’s highest elevation and the tallest peak in the Kittatinny Mountains. It stands at the top of High Point State Park, around which wind over 50 miles of multi-use trails. Dominating the summit is a 220-foot-tall war memorial called the High Point Monument – a 291-step staircase accesses a lookout deck. Also in the park are campgrounds, picnic sites, and an interpretation center.
Rising up from the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Wheeler Peak is the tallest mountain in New Mexico and eighth on the list of state high points. The 7.3-mile-long Wheeler Peak Trail meanders through the flora and fauna-rich Wheeler Peak Wilderness to the summit. Elk, golden eagle, marmot, bristlecone pines, cottonwoods, and wildflowers are all present. Open year-round, the trail can be accessed by foot, horseback, and snowshoe.
Mount Marcy is the commander in chief of New York State and the highest point of the Adirondacks. Four main trails lead to the top, providing adventurers and high pointers with a range of challenges. Views from the summit, which shelters endangered alpine vegetation, reach over the entire Adirondack range. Interestingly, President Teddy Roosevelt was climbing the peak when he received a message that he should travel to Buffalo to be sworn into office.
This state highpoint is a popular stop for those traveling through North Carolina along the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway. The crowning glory of Mount Mitchell State Park, visitors can drive within a 10-minute walk of Mount Mitchell’s summit. The mountain is part of the Black Mountains and is named after the university professor Dr. Elisha Mitchell. Besides far-reaching views, visitors can learn more about the area at the Mount Mitchell Museum.
Slope County, within the secluded and otherworldly Badlands of southwestern North Dakota, is the location of the state’s highest elevation. White Butte and nearby Rattlesnake Butte were once known as the Chalky Buttes due to their distinct color. The former consists of Oligocene age rocks from the White River and Miocene age Arikaree Sandstone. This is a similar geological makeup to the Badlands National Park.
Campbell Hill is a glacial moraine situated on the outskirts of Bellefontaine in western-central Ohio. Once the site of the Bellefontaine Air Force Station, the hill is now part of the grounds of an educational campus. A simple flagpole marks the top, and there’s a guestbook and certificates. The surrounding area is rich in Indian folklore, as highlighted at the nearby Zane Shawnee Caverns.
Oklahoma’s tallest elevation is part of a ridge that extends into both Colorado and Nevada. Black Mesa is named after a layer of black rock lava that covers the ridge and appeared some 30 million years ago. Encompassed by the Black Mesa State Park and Nature Preserve, this is where the Rockies merge with shortgrass prairies to create a unique environment home to several endangered species. In August, it’s also a perfect viewing spot for the Perseid meteor shower.
Mount Hood is a cloudbusting and dormant stratovolcano located within the Cascade Volcanic Arc – the last major eruption was in 1865. As the point of Oregon’s tallest elevation, it’s visible from Portland and is among the world’s most-climbed mountains. Four seasons of adventure await visitors to this state highpoint. On offer are endless miles of hiking trails, camping, fishing, and almost year-round skiing at Timberline Lodge.
Forbes State Forest in the Somerset County region of southwestern Pennsylvania is the home of this state’s tallest peak. Mount Davis takes its name from a Civil War veteran called John Nelson Davis. Prior to the war, Davis was a surveyor and naturalist with a love of mountains. A short trail leads from a picnic area to the summit and an observation tower. Views from here reach over the lush landscapes of the Laurel Highlands.
It’s just an easy stroll along a 0.3-mile-long trail to the top of Jerimoth Hill in Foster, Rhode Island. But reaching the tallest point of the state wasn’t always straightforward. Legends abound of Henry Richardson, aka “The Madman of Jerimoth Hill”. The one-time owner of the land around the hill, Richardson was notorious for making life difficult for highpointers. Today, however, the area is public property and freely accessible to all.
Sassafras Mountain stands on the state border of the two Carolinas. Spreading all around are the pristine forest lands and pretty waterfalls of the 50,000-acre Jocassee Gorge. A lookout tower, which provides views of unspoiled wilderness for up to 50 miles, was installed at the summit in 2009. Keen hikers can stop at the mountain while walking the 77-mile-long Foothills Trail between Table Rock State Park and Oconee State Park.
Enveloped by the Black Elk Wilderness in Cluster State Park, Black Elk Peak claims to be the highest point between the Rocky Mountains and the French Pyrenees. This high point in southwestern South Dakota is named after a medicine man of the Oglala Lakota people. Over a dozen routes lead to the summit, and there’s a trail suitable for all ages. The popular Little Devils Tower trail offers views of the Cathedral Spires and Mount Rushmore.
Rising above the treetops of the Great Smoky Mountains, Clingman Dome is the third tallest peak east of the Mississippi. A seven-mile road with scenic pullouts meanders through the park to a trailhead, from where it’s a half-mile uphill walk to the top. On clear days, visitors can see into five states and for over 100 miles from the lookout tower. The Appalachian Trail crosses the area, marking the highest point on its route from Georgia to Maine.
Guadalupe Peak is the “Top of Texas” and the crowning feature of Guadalupe Mountains National Park. It’s an 8.4-mile out-and-back trek to the top, which usually takes hikers between six to eight hours to complete. It passes some of the park’s diverse ecosystems, such as the high desert and high-elevation forests. Curiously, some 265 million years ago the Guadalupe Mountains were underwater and formed part of an inland sea.
Resembling a shark’s tooth, Kings Peak is the seventh highest of the state highpoints and the tallest peak in the Uinta Mountains. It’s set amid the Ashley National Forest, in northeastern Utah, and is reachable along a 27-mile trail. While the route is achievable in a day, the breathtaking scenery calls for a multiday backpacking adventure. Overnight camping is possible at the nearby Alligator Lake and Dollar Lake.
Mount Mansfield, in north-central Vermont, is one of the only mountains in the state that shelters alpine tundra leftover from the Ice Age. Part of Mount Mansfield State Park, it’s a dedicated National Natural Landmark. Besides hiking one of several trails, visitors can get to the top via the Gondola SkyRide. It departs from Stowe Mountain Resort, which in winter welcomes powder hounds with 450 acres of skiable terrain and 40 miles of runs.
A nine-mile out-and-back hike traverses the spruce forests, wildflower meadows, and rocky outcrops of Mount Rogers National Recreation Area. Mount Rogers itself is nestled among the 500 miles of hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails in the area. Drivers can also explore the region via the Mount Rogers Scenic Byway. This high point is named after Virginia’s first State Geologist and Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) founder, William Barton Rogers.
The highest mountain in the Cascade Range, Mount Rainier is an active volcano and the most glaciated peak in the contiguous U.S. This snow-capped landmark rises above Mount Rainier National Park and presents a daunting challenge for climbers. For the less experienced, the 368-square-mile park has dozens of trails that weave through wildflower meadows and ancient forests. The Paradise area has epic views and several trailheads.
Spruce Knob, the pinnacle of Spruce Mountain, is the highest point in both West Virginia and the entire Allegheny Mountains. This alpine peak presents abundant backpacking and hiking opportunities, most notably the Whispering Spruce Trail. The half-mile route circles the knob, offering sweeping views of the Spruce Knob-Seneca Rocks National Recreation Area, and providing information about local geology, flora and fauna via interpretive signs.
Situated in the aptly named town of Hill in northern Wisconsin, the state’s high point is the centerpiece of Timms Hill County Park. From a lookout tower at the top of Timms Hill, views stretch for 30 miles over the forests and lakes of the Northwoods region. A popular recreational area, the park surrounding the hill features a fishing pier, swimming beach, and picnic grounds. In winter it’s open for cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing.
Head to the isolated Wind River Mountain Range in northern Wyoming to find what is deemed by mountaineers as one of the most difficult state high points to reach. Gannett Peak is the tallest peak in the Rockies outside of Colorado. Climbing involves crossing high-altitude mountain passes and glaciers, including the 896-acre Gannett Glacier. Many adventures include the peak on a trip along the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail.
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If you’ve ever lived in a metropolitan area, you understand city parks’ importance. They provide respite from the concrete jungle, and these green spaces allow city residents to congregate and have a little fun. Whether you want to picnic, paddle, or enjoy the quietude of nature, look no further than these five U.S. cities and their amazing parks.
Portland, Oregon
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Dubbed the “City of Roses” for good reason, Portland’s Washington Park is hard to beat. Its International Rose Test Garden contains 550 varieties of rose bushes and 7,000 plants in total. When the roses are blooming from May to September, it’s a lovely place to spend the afternoon or to listen to the classical concerts at theamphitheater.The park is also home to the Portland Japanese Garden, which is worth the cost of admission with its stunning waterfall, Japanese teahouse, and views of the surrounding mountains. Best of all, Hoyt Arboretum contains 12 miles of beautiful trails through 2,300 species of trees, including redwoods, Douglas firs, and red cedars.
St. Louis, Missouri
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Home to the World’s Fair in 1904, Forest Park is considered by locals to be the city’s backyard. Located smack dab in the middle of downtown St. Louis, Forest Park is huge — 1,293 acres, to be exact. The best part? Many of the park’s offerings, including the St. Louis Art Museum, Zoo, Science Center, and Missouri History Museum, are free to the public. If you prefer a more relaxed day at the park, paddle boat rentals are available at the boathouse. Paddlers can leisurely explore the park’s waterways before visiting the aptly named Picnic Island. In the snowy months, city residents still gravitate to the park for winter-friendly activities like sledding on Art Hill and ice skating at the Steinberg Skating Rink.
New Orleans, Louisiana
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New Orleans is anything but dull. Between Mardi Gras parades, live jazz concerts, and the lively bar scene, this vibrant city never seems to slow down. Luckily, New Orleans residents can escape the shenanigans on Bourbon Street by visiting one of the city’s beautiful parks. City Park is perhaps the most iconic park in New Orleans and the oldest as well. Not only is it home to a spectacular Sculpture Garden, but the 1,300-acre park is filled with walking paths, ponds, and fully matured oak trees dripping in Spanish moss. Along the Mississippi River isAudubon Park, a peaceful oasis in the city. Known for the Audubon Zoo and the Tree of Life, the park’s walking trails are ideal for bird lovers hoping to see snowy egrets and night herons within city limits.
Boston, Massachusetts
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When writer Louise Closser Hale wrote, “The spring in Boston is like being in love,” she must have been sitting in the Boston Public Garden. As the first public botanical garden in the United States, this park was meant to be seen in spring. With its colorful tulips, blooming magnolia trees, and bright pink cherry blossoms, it’s nothing short of spectacular. Also home to the famed Make Way for Ducklings sculpture and the kitschy but oh-so-fun Swan Boats, don’t be surprised by the number of tourists the garden attracts. Adjacent to the garden is Boston Common, the oldest park in the country and an excellent spot for a picnic in the city. It’s where the colonial militia mustered for the American Revolution and where George Washington celebrated America’s independence. Since it’s also the beginning of the Freedom Trail, Boston Common is an essential stop for anyone visiting Boston.
Seattle, Washington
Nicknamed the Emerald City for its sheer amount of greenery, Seattle’s park system is top-notch. But with so many outstanding parks in one city, we can’t mention them all. Discovery Park is the city’s largest park and perhaps the most well-known. It boasts 534 bio-diverse acres of tidal beaches, meadows, and sand dunes while offering up stunning views of Puget Sound. If you find yourself in central Seattle, check out Gas Works Park. In 1975, the city repurposed the old gasification factory into this unique park with a rolling green lawn, views of Lake Union, and the Seattle skyline in the distance. Seward Park is another gem that shouldn’t be missed. The park’s trail system, old-growth trees, and access to Lake Washington will make it hard to believe you’re still within city limits.
Jersey Griggs is a writer and editor based in Portland, Maine. In addition to travel, Jersey covers topics ranging from outdoor recreation to alternative wellness.
Allyn Maycumber Broker/Associate ERA Grizzard Mount Dora Florida 407-467-3862 Amaycumber@eragrizzard.com
Do you consider yourself a daredevil? A lover of heart-pumping adrenaline and out-of-this-world thrills? No matter how brave you think you are, we’ll bet at least one of these eight places will give you the chills. Take a look.
Coiling Dragon Cliff Skywalk, China
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Scared of heights? Stay far away from this glass walkway. The Coiling Dragon Cliff Skywalk (its name literally translates to “Avenue to the Sky”) hugs a cliff 4,600 feet in the air. Located on Tianmen Mountain, the glass skywalk is 330 feet long and is one of three similar walkways in the area. If you can get over the rush of adrenaline that comes with walking over glass, you might just be able to catch the best selfie of your life.
North Yungas Road, Bolivia
Anything that’s called “Death Road” is sure to terrify. The North Yungas Road is known as the world’s most dangerous road and is responsible for hundreds of fatalities every year. The 10-foot-wide road runs from La Paz to Coroico and doesn’t have guardrails in many areas. The hairpin road winds up 15,260 feet and then drops back down to 3,900 feet as you arrive in Coroico. The North Yungas Road is a draw for adrenaline junkies and attracts cyclists who dodge buses and trucks to ride this thrilling road.
Mt. Huashan, China
China sure loves its cliffside walkways. The path up Mt. Huashan is one of the world’s most dangerous hikes. Located in Huayin City, the mountain has five peaks that include such dizzying features as the Thousand-Foot Precipice, Hundred-Foot Crevice, and Black Dragon Ridge. If the crags of the mountain are too scary for you, there’s a cable car you can ride to the top. But where’s the adventure in that?
Mt. Everest, Nepal/China
As if climbing Mt. Everest wasn’t enough of an adventure, you can also skydive over the mountain. Jump from a helicopter, free-fall in front of the jagged Himalayan peaks, and join the international record books. Climbing Mt. Everest is a bucket list item for many daredevils, but skydiving over Mt. Everest might be even scarier.
Caminito del Rey, Spain
Caminito del Rey, which stands for “the king’s little path,” is a walkway that stretches across a Malaga, Spain gorge. This royal pathway is over 100 years old and sits 350 feet in the air, hugging cliff walls and crossing the river below. If you’re brave enough to attempt the dizzying four-hour hike, you’ll be rewarded with beautiful views of diverse landscapes and some serious bragging rights.
Kjerag Mountain, Norway
Get stuck between a rock and a hard place at Kjerag Mountain. Located in Lysefjord, Norway, this enormous boulder sits 3,556 feet above sea level, stuck in a mountain crevasse. The spot is called Kjeragbolten and sees more hiking traffic than you might expect as visitors attempt to catch a stellar picture. BASE jumping, a sport so dangerous that it’s illegal in many places, is also popular at Kjerag if you haven’t had enough.
Grand Canyon Skywalk, United States
The skywalk at the Grand Canyon juts out 70 feet from the west rim, offering spectacular views for those brave enough to cross the glass platform. The Hualapai Tribe manages it and was first opened in 2007. Walking on the glass platform, you’re looking down 4,000 feet to the canyon below.
Devil’s Eye Cave, United States
The Devil’s Eye Cave system in Florida includes over 30,000 feet of mapped passageways for diving, plus many other underwater areas that have yet to be explored. The main cave opens up into a large Junction Room and then branches off into many different tunnels. Where the Devil Spring meets the Santa Fe River, water surges out of the cave opening. If you’re looking for eerie underwater adventures, this is one place you can’t miss.
Allyn Maycumber Broker/Associate ERA Grizzard Mount Dora Florida 32757 407-467-3862 Amaycumber@eragrizzard.com
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