The 4th July weekend marks the opportunity for us to lace up our hiking boots and explore one of the USA’s countless awe-inspiring trails.
Whether we’re gaining some altitude to traverse some switchbacks, or gathering some friends for a meandering hike and a sunset cook-out; drinking in some fresh air and feeling the sun on our cheeks is the perfect way to appreciate how lucky we are to have such stunning scenery on our doorstep.
Here’s 5 of our favorite weekend destinations to get you inspired for the holiday ahead...
1.BOULDER, COLORADO
Boasting over 45,000 acres of open space, 300 miles of bike paths and 200 miles of hiking trails, Boulder, CO is affectionately referred to as ‘Triathlon Town’. Situated a 30 minute-drive from downtown Boulder, the Fourth July trail snakes into the Indian Peaks wilderness area, crossing old mining ruins and alpine lake passes along the route.
There are plenty of shorter legs to the trail for those wanting a peaceful wander, with altitude hikes to the North Arapahoe Peak for those in search of a challenge. If you’re looking for a base for the day, pitch your picnic next to the Boulder Reservoir for an afternoon of swimming and relaxing.
2. TACONIC STATE PARK – COPAKE FALLS, NEW YORK
Nestled on the New York state border with Massachusetts and Connecticut, the Taconic State park boasts dense forests, breath-taking waterfalls and swimming spots aplenty. You can easily rent a bike and there are lots of spaces for parking up an RV.
3.BAINBRIDGE ISLAND, WASHINGTON
Home to some of the top cycle routes in the USA (and the famous annual ‘Chilly Hilly’ cycling tour of the Island each February.) Head to the Grand Forest West Trail system for a well-trodden network of relaxed hikes, or let the kids loose in the awesome Owen’s Playground – a barrier-free playground designed to excite all the senses.
4.JUNE LAKE, CALIFORNIA
A stone’s throw from Yosemite National Park, June Lake is not to be overlooked in favour of its world renowned neighbour. Bordered by the Sierra Nevada Mountain range, this breath-taking loop of 4 lakes is dubbed ‘Switzerland in California’, and features world-class hiking a welcoming campsite, and an array of water activities, from swimming and sailing to wakeboarding and kayaking.
5.BEND, OREGON
The perfect destination if you’re in search of an adrenaline-fuelled adventure, there’s a reason this town’s slogan is ‘where you go to play’.
Check out Bend White-water Park in the recreation district to ride the waves and rapids. Whether you want a relaxing paddle board down the river, or to surf the mechanically manipulated waves of the white-water channel, this is a day out for the whole family to remember.
Wind down with a stroll along the woodland trails of Shelvin park, and be sure to seek out one of the town’s growing microbreweries for your BBQ supplies – it’s 4th July weekend, after all!
