Are you an outdoor enthusiast who enjoys nature’s company, the breeze against your face, and a spectacular view stretching before you? Mountain activities might just be your calling! With the great outdoors offering a wide range of experiences, getting out there and trying something new can be daunting. But luckily for us, we have compiled three of the favorite mountain activities of people who like to venture out and experience life beyond the hustle and bustle of urban areas.
Hiking
Hiking is an outdoor activity in which you walk on trails, paths, or roads while enjoying natural surroundings. Hiking is one of the most popular mountain activities, and it comes with a variety of options, from trail trekking to mountaineering.
It is an excellent way to escape the city, lower stress levels, and strengthen your heart and lungs. Hiking is a great way to connect with nature and enjoy the great outdoors, and some of the best mountain hikes include the following.
Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain in Africa and one of the spectacular mountain hikes in the world.
The trek is challenging, and you’ll need to have a reasonable level of fitness, but the breathtaking views of the surrounding scenery make the climb entirely worth it. The best time to go hiking in Tanzania is June to September when the weather is dry, making the climb more accessible.
Hiking the Inca Trail, Machu Picchu, Peru
The Inca Trail is the most popular and sought-after hike in the Americas. The trail is an ancient path that leads to Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and is an excellently preserved 15th-century city.
Along the way, you will encounter Inca ruins, cloud forests, and enjoy panoramic views of the Andes Mountains. Although you don’t require any technical skills to hike the trail, it still requires some level of fitness and permits to enter are still required.
Rock Climbing
Rock climbing is an exhilarating activity that tests your strength, endurance, and mental focus. It involves scaling vertical rock formations using your hands, feet, and specialized equipment.
Rock climbing can be done either outdoors or indoors, and you can choose to climb solo or with a team. It is an excellent way to build strength and confidence, and you’ll learn to overcome fears and limitations you didn’t think you could.
The Red River Gorge Geological Area, Kentucky
The Red River Gorge is located in the Daniel Boone National Forest and is one of the best rock climbing locations in the US.
It boasts over 2,000 different climbing routes, from easy top-rope climbs to strenuous free climbs, and it draws climbers from different parts of the world. The best time to visit Red River Gorge is between September and November or March and May when the weather is mild and the climbing conditions are perfect.
Canyonlands National Park, Utah
Canyonlands National Park is home to a variety of rock formations that attract climbers from all over the globe. You’ll come across numerous sandstone spires, cliffs, and towers, some towering over 1,000ft.
The rock climbing routes are challenging, but they offer breathtaking vistas over the park’s canyons and rivers. The best time to visit Canyonlands National Park is in the spring when the wildflowers are in bloom, and the weather is milder.
Skiing
Skiing is a winter sport that requires you to glide on snow. It’s a fun way to stay active and enjoy the winter season. Skiing involves making your way down a hill, whether it’s a groomed trail at a resort or a backcountry area.
Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, there’s something for everyone when it comes to skiing.
Whistler Blackcomb Resort, Canada
Whistler Blackcomb is one of North America’s premier skiing locations, with more than 8,100 acres of skiable terrain. The resort caters to both expert and beginner skiers, and it offers a wide range of accommodation and dining options.
Whistler Blackcomb has also hosted several international skiing events, making it a favorite among skiing enthusiasts.
Alta, Utah
Alta is one of the nation’s oldest ski resorts, with over 2,000 acres of skiable terrain. It’s a skier-only resort, which means snowboarders are not allowed, making it a favorite among skiing purists.
Alta has over 116 trails of different difficulty levels, and it’s known for its powder skiing conditions, which are some of the best in the country.
These three mountain activities are sure to provide you with lots of adventure and opportunities to explore the great outdoors.
Whether you’re looking for a weekend activity or a weeklong excursion, these activities will give you a new appreciation for nature and the environment. Get out there and try something new- you never know what you might discover!.