Extreme adventurers appear in a variety of shapes and sizes. There are gems that require extensive planning, such as climbing a mountain in Yosemite National Park, as well as those that can be done spontaneously, such as BASE leaping off a high bridge in Idaho. These activities are sure to get your pulse racing and are a wonderful way to connect with a family member, close friend, or someone special. Also, if you’ve always wanted to try one of these activities but lacked the courage, attempting it in such well-known locations will give you the boost you need to overcome any hesitation.
A few of these are appropriate for novices and require no prior experience, but others are not, so you will need to develop your skills beforehand. Looking for more outdoor entertainment? Consult our guides for the top beaches, national parks, and hiking trails in the United States.
Best adventurous vacations in the United States
1. Santa Monica Beach | Santa Monica, CA
2. Ziplining | New York
3. Heli-skiing | Anchorage, AK
4. BASE jumping | Twin Falls, ID
5. Canyoneering | Moab, UT
6. Waterfall rappelling | White Mountains, NH
7. Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride | Lake Tahoe, CA
8. Climbing El Capitan | Yosemite, CA
9. Paragliding | Maui, HI
10. Hiking a 14er | Colorado
11. Overnight caving | McMinnville, TN