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Best adventure vacations in the u.s..

For some, escaping the daily grind means getting their adrenaline pumping on a rugged mountainside or 50 feet below the ocean's surface. Others search for snowy peaks and alpine lakes simply for a change of scenery. Using expert advice and traveler votes, U.S. News created a list of some of the best adventure vacations in the U.S. for a thrilling walk on the wild side. Be sure to cast your vote below to help determine next year's ranking.

Yellowstone National Park

Grand canyon national park, yosemite national park, jackson hole, kaua'i, hawaii - the big island, acadia national park, adirondacks.

For more than 11,000 years, Yellowstone has been home to Native Americans (26 different tribes have historic connections to the park), while the park's natural wonders draw visitors from all over the world. Hiking trails wind throughout the Wyoming, Montana and Idaho sections of the park, taking you to sights like the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone and Mammoth Hot Springs. If hiking isn't your style, you're in luck: Biking, horseback riding, snowmobiling and kayaking are all available. Camp at one of Yellowstone's sites or in its undeveloped backcountry, if you're feeling especially adventurous.

Arizona's Grand Canyon boasts an array of adrenaline-pumping activities, most notably hiking and whitewater rafting on the Colorado River. To avoid the crowds, check out the hiking routes on the North Rim; chances are you won't see as many people along the challenging North Kaibab Trail. You're welcome to explore on your own, but for some of the best views, consider signing up for a guided excursion in a Jeep, atop a mule or in a helicopter.

Yosemite National Park features mountains, meadows, massive sequoia trees and plenty of waterfalls – all less than 170 miles east of San Francisco. Activities are similarly varied, ranging from bird-watching and stargazing to snowboarding and biking. Climbers will relish the opportunity to boulder and slackline throughout the California park. Meanwhile, novice and experienced hikers alike will find plenty of trails to trek, whether they want to explore mountains or valleys. Keep in mind, Yosemite's famous Half Dome hike is best suited for proficient hikers.

Jackson Hole, Wyoming, offers adventurous pursuits year-round. In winter and early spring, ski resorts boast plenty of powder for skiing, snowshoeing and tubing. For a more relaxing outing, opt for a sleigh ride. In the warmer months, kayaking, whitewater rafting or hiking in Grand Teton National Park is a must. And in fall, no visit would be complete without leaf peeping and listening to the bugle calls of wild elk in the National Elk Refuge.

The beauty of this lake straddling the California-Nevada border is impossible to ignore. The picturesque peaks offer some of the best skiing in the country (both cross-country and downhill), while the crystal-clear lake is ideal for kayaking, canoeing and boating. You'll also find plenty of other activities, including disc golf, parasailing, hiking and golf. For a different kind of thrill, try your luck at the casinos or in nearby Reno, Nevada.

Filled with acres of misty rainforests, plummeting waterfalls and oceanside cliffs, Kauai's opportunities for adventure are enough to excite even the most jaded visitor. Float on a tube down the Hawaiian island's waterways, soar over the trees on a zip line or hike through rainforests and along the rim of Waimea Canyon. Surfing is another can't-miss activity here. Poipu offers great waves for new surfers, while the North Shore's gnarly waves are made for expert athletes.

Like other Hawaiian Islands, Maui offers a myriad of activities to get your blood pumping, from sea kayaking to helicopter tours to volcano hiking. But this is just the beginning: Head to Maui's northeast coast to admire roaring waterfalls, belching blowholes and jagged peaks. And don't forget to spend time in the water. Visit Molokini for a colorful and exotic snorkeling experience, or suit up to go into the depths of the ocean during a scuba diving excursion.

The largest of Hawaii's islands boasts plenty of jungle to trek and not one, but five volcanoes (some of which are still active). Explore Mauna Loa and Kilauea, two of the active volcanoes, by hiking through Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. Its 150 miles of trails wind through rainforests and volcanic craters, among other natural wonders. After your hike, cool off in the island's surrounding waters by snorkeling in Honaunau Bay, located about 20 miles south of Kona on the island's western shore.

There are ample opportunities for adventure in Maine's forested wilderness. If you're considering Acadia for your next family trip, note that the park's rocky trails can be challenging for little legs. However, there are several forest and coastal trails that are better suited for children, including the Jesup Path and Hemlock Path Loop, and the Wonderland Trail. Additionally, you and the kids will get a kick out of watching the park's harbor seals.

This mountainous region in upstate New York has plenty to offer thrill-seekers. Test the powder on Whiteface Mountain, navigate the area's waters in a canoe or test your climbing skills on one of numerous rock faces. While here, you'll also want to check out a few of the region's more unique offerings, such as the Lake Placid Olympic Sites. At Mount Van Hoevenberg, fill your need for speed on its Cliffside Coaster or by partaking in bobsled rides. Then, try the zip line at the Olympic Jumping Complex to mimic the feeling of ski jumping.

You'll need to pack a sturdy pair of shoes for your trip to Sedona, Arizona. The town's striking red rocks are best seen on foot from one of the destination's 200-plus hiking paths. Not sure where to start? Kick off your trip at The Hike House, where staff can help you pick a trail that suits your skill level. You can also explore the area by horseback or via an all-terrain vehicle or a mountain bike.

If you're an adventure junkie, you shouldn't miss out on America's "Last Frontier." Take a boat trip through Tracy Arm Fjord to see crumbling glaciers and swimming seals, or head to breathtaking – literally, it's an exhausting hike – Mendenhall Glacier. Save some of your strength for other pursuits in the Alaskan capital, too, including fishing trips, glacier climbing, whale watching, skiing and dog sledding. No matter what you decide to do, be sure to wear plenty of layers and sturdy shoes.

Telluride, Colorado, was a gold and silver mining town until 1972 when the first ski lift was installed. The town then began its transformation into a mecca of outdoor adventure. In winter, available activities are limited to snow sports like skiing, ice climbing and sledding. As spring begins, Telluride's options expand to include everything from paragliding to rock climbing to kayaking. Extend the adventure by camping instead of staying in a hotel.

Anchorage, Alaska, showcases Mother Nature's adventurous side in Chugach State Park, where craggy cliffs beckon to hikers, rock climbers, cross-country skiers, snowmobilers and snowshoers. Families can get the kiddos in on the action by checking out the more novice Tony Knowles Coastal Trail. Alternatively, they can treat younger travelers to a horseback riding trip or bike ride through one of Anchorage's other parks – there are 223 available within city limits.

Located between San Francisco and Los Angeles, Big Sur features the longest stretch of undeveloped coastline in the continental U.S. Home of famous U.S. Highway 1, this California treasure attracts roughly the same number of visitors as Yosemite. Strict regulations have limited how many commercial options are available for adventurers, but hikers and nature lovers will feel right at home here. Hit the trails at Los Padres National Forest or Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. Don't forget to visit the beach in the latter, too, to snap pics of the stunning Keyhole Arch at sunset.

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

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The 15 Best Countries for Adventure Travel

By Caitlin Morton

We believe adventure travel comes in many forms—and that no matter which way you slice it, adventures can be found in every nook and cranny of the world. That being said, there are certain places that have a little more of an advantage in the adrenaline department, thanks to a combination of natural resources and tourist attractions. With this in mind, we dug into data from U.S. News and World Report to identify just which countries were best for adventurers—and added a few picks of our own. So if you tend to choose scuba diving and camping over spa treatments and lying on the beach, here are the 15 best countries for adventure travel.

This article was originally published in December 2017. It has been updated with new information.

10. Australia

With more than 30,000 miles of spectacular coastline , Down Under is ripe with adventure opportunities—most notably in the Outback and a little place called the Great Barrier Reef . Bonus: Given that its population-to-land ratio is so low (Australia is one of the least crowded countries in the world), you’ll even feel like you have huge stretches of it to yourself.

Adventures to try: Scuba diving off Lady Elliot Island; hiking through Tasmania's Bay of Fires; swimming under waterfalls in The Kimberley (just watch out for crocodiles).

Note: If you are interested in helping Australia during its current bushfire crisis, check out these resources .

9. Argentina

Snow-topped mountain peaks. Turquoise lakes. Wild tundra, treeless plains, and sprawling ice fields. If you’re an adventurer looking for a country with a seemingly endless rotation of landscapes, Argentina may be your best bet. The South American nation is also great for family travel , and Traveler 's top specialists can help design a trip suitable for all ages.

Adventures to try: Fly-fishing in Patagonia; riding horses on estancias ; learning to ski on Francis Mallmann's private island .

8. Costa Rica

Though Costa Rica is just 19,730 square miles (roughly the size of West Virginia), a quarter of its land is protected jungle. When you’re not hot-air ballooning over, zip lining through, or climbing in that very jungle, simply point in any direction to find a new adventure in a new landscape.

Adventures to try: Horseback riding on the beach; stand-up paddleboarding your way around Lake Arenal; rushing the rapids of Pacuare.

7. New Zealand

Name a landscape, and New Zealand most likely has it within its California-sized borders (though it has 34 million fewer people than the Golden State). Kiwis in the Traveler office say the country has every adventure you can think of—and then some—and we’re inclined to believe them.

Adventures to try: Caving in Waitomo; rafting rivers on the North Island; bungee jumping in Queensland.

Steph Koyfman

Shannon McMahon

Charlie Hobbs

6. Portugal

Though once the launching pad for explorers like Magellan and Columbus, who set off from its western shores, Portugal today has become a destination for, well, explorers. While the mainland has plenty of activities for outdoor enthusiasts, don’t forget about the Azores : An archipelago some 850 miles off of Portugal’s coast, the nine islands play host to some of the world’s best whale watching, lay claim to Portugal’s tallest mountain, and have volcanoes and crater lakes galore.

Adventures to try: Paddling down the Sabor and Tua rivers; surfing off of Guincho Beach; horseback riding through Alentejo , one of the world's burgeoning wine regions.

5. Thailand

Long a destination for gap year travelers and backpackers, Thailand’s combination of bustling metros, unforgettable street food culture, and blissed-out historical sites is attracting travelers of all ages. Whether you stay close to the cities or island hop to a cluster of jungle-covered islands off the coast, Thailand is as pretty as it is packed with opportunities for adventure at every turn. 

Adventures to try: Zip lining through 1,500-year-old rain forests; sea kayaking in Tarutao National Marine Park; caving in Pang Mapha.

With more than 6,000 islands and islets and a coastline of nearly 8,500 miles, Greece is more than just whitewashed buildings, sleepy beaches , and epic sunsets —though there are plenty of all of those, too. Seeking an island adventure without the crowds? Try Naxos, which is paradise for windsurfers, or Thassos (Greece’s northernmost island), which draws top mountain bikers.

Adventures to try: Sliding down waterfalls in Samothraki; diving WWII wreckage off the coast of Crete; climbing high for killer views on Kalymnos.

It seems as though Spain's geography was specifically carved out for adventure. Aside from its world-class beaches , the country is home to 15 national parks, including five in the Canary and Balearic Islands. So if you're looking to explore volcanos, sand dunes, marshes, or mountain ranges, you'll be set in this country.

Adventures to try: Hiking the Camino de Santiago; cycling through Andalucía ; camping and stargazing on the Canary Islands , one of our top places to go in 2020.

Few parts of the world can claim so intense a range of natural beauty as Italy, from craggy peaks and verdant hills to coasts of jaw-dropping beauty. There's nothing quite like driving through the winding, cyprus-lined roads of Tuscany , past rolling green hills and golden fields dotted with sunflowers. The Dolomites are some of the most beautiful mountains you'll find anywhere, too; San Pellegrino Pass is one of its best spots for rock climbing, skiing, and, well, just being in awe.

Adventures to try: Boating through Capri's caves and grottos; skiing in Cortina d'Ampezzo; scuba diving down to San Fruttuoso's haunting Christ of the Abyss statue .

South America’s largest country, Brazil, is also known for hosting Rio’s famous Carnival —the world's largest party, and an adventure in its own right. But it’s also a paradise for outdoor explorers, with the world’s largest waterfall system (Iguazú), biggest wetlands (Pantanal), and that thing called the Amazon, which comprises both the mighty river and rainforest.

Adventures to try: Boating under the Iguazú Falls; riding dune buggies in Natal; snorkeling in Fernando de Noronha .

Our pick: Canada

Canada may be the world’s second-largest country in terms of sheer size, but it has a population less than that of California—and 82 percent of that population lives in large or medium-sized cities. Got a few years? Hike, bike, ski, and paddle your way across the country on the Trans Canada Trail , which is a 14,864-mile network of paths—and the longest recreational trail in the world. Only have a week? There are plenty of options for that, too.

Adventures to try: Spotting polar bears in Manitoba; boating past glaciers in Torngat Mountains National Park; chasing the Northern Lights in Yellowknife.

Our pick: Iceland

Iceland’s landscape is so verifiably lunar that astronauts used to train here —if that doesn’t convince enough that the country is ripe for adventure, then we don’t know what will. A literal land of fire and ice, you can trek Snæfellsjökull, the snow-capped volcano that inspired Jules Verne’s Journey to the Center of the Earth , see geysers erupt in the Golden Circle, and hike across massive glaciers all in the course of a long weekend.

Adventures to try: Snorkeling between two continents in Thingvellir National Park ; exploring Vatnajökull glacier's underground ice caves; hiking behind the Seljalandsfoss waterfall.

Our pick: Peru

Machu Picchu 's panoramic views and mysterious stone walls are worth a plane ticket to Peru alone, but the country has more to offer than just Incan ruins. (Though climbing to the iconic citadel is definitely an adventure we recommend—and one you can even do in a day .) Once you cross that major item off your bucket list, head toward the country's national parks, lakes, and deserts for even more, less-crowded activities.

Adventures to try: Hiking past penguins in Paracas Natural Reserve; boating from island to island on Lake Titicaca; sand boarding in Huacachina, an oasis in the Ica desert. 

Our pick: Botswana

Botswana has plenty of national parks and safari camps for travelers, but the country's primary draw is the lush Okavango Delta —a 49-million acre river delta in northern Botswana. The area is real-world eden, where cheetahs, zebras, buffalo, and rhinos roam freely. Visit during Africa's winter (our summer), after the rains when the delta floods: The savanna’s grasses are low, while growth along the waterways attracts tons of wildlife.

Adventures to try: Camping under the stars near boulder-covered Kubu Island; river boating through Chobe National Park; zooming across the Makgadikgadi salt pans on quad bikes—another spot on our 2020 travel list.

Our pick: Sri Lanka

It's been just over a decade since the end of Sri Lanka's brutal civil war, but the country has bounced back to become one of our favorite travel destinations , complete with rambling temple ruins, leafy tea plantations, and wide, golden beaches. Animal lovers should take particular note, as the country has tons of options for wildlife viewing.

Adventures to try: Surfing off the country's southern coast; finding the world's highest concentration of leopards in Yala National Park; hot air ballooning over the Dambulla rock temples.

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The best places in the world for lovers of adventure tourism are revealed

Oct 31, 2016 • 1 min read

Iceland is the best country in the world when it comes to its potential for adventure tourism, according to new research.

Germany , New Zealand , Norway and Switzerland make up the rest of the top five in a scorecard for adventure travel compiled by the Adventure Travel Trade Association. Countries were ranked in ten different categories, beginning with their natural resources: coastline, population density, and other physical characteristics.

Cultural resources like national parks or UNESCO world heritage sites were also factored in along with adventure activity resources that allow for outdoor, nature-based activities. They also looked at tourism infrastructure particularly things that tempt adventure travellers like availability of trail maps, eco-lodges, access to trained guides and so on.

Their ‘Adventure Tourism Development Index’ also ranked countries by region with Iceland coming out on top in the competitive Europe and North America section.   New Zealand was rated best in East Asia and the Pacific, Croatia in Eastern Europe and Central Asia, and Chile in Latin America and the Caribbean. Also ranked top in their respective regions were Israel , Bhutan , and Botswana in Sub-Saharan Africa.

The report said adventure tourism had significant benefits for countries not just in terms of attracting tourists but also helping preserve their heritage. It explained: “For countries and communities fortunate enough to possess outstanding natural and cultural characteristics, adventure tourism can provide a source of sorely needed income and an incentive to conserve vestiges of the past, current cultural identities and ecological wonders.”  Adventure tourism is big business and was worth an estimated US$263 billion back in 2012, the most recent year for which data is available.

The Adventure Travel Top Ten:

3. New Zealand

5. Switzerland

7. Australia

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What is Adventure Tourism?

Adventure tourism, a term that incites excitement and thrill among travel enthusiasts worldwide. But what is adventure tourism?

It is an offshoot of the tourism industry that involves exploration and travel to remote or exotic areas, often involving physically challenging activities.

Over recent years, adventure tourism has seen a considerable surge in popularity.

This growth can be attributed to the increasing desire for unique experiences, heightened environmental awareness, and the pursuit of physical and mental challenges.

This form of tourism pushes the boundaries of personal courage and physical endurance, making travel much more than just a leisurely activity.

History of Adventure Tourism

Accessible tourism for the disabled, extreme tourism, jungle tourism, overland travel, scuba diving, mountaineering and trekking, bungee jumping, mountain biking and cycling, canoeing and rafting, zip-lining and paragliding, hiking and exploring, canyoneering and rock climbing, sandboarding and caving, popular adventure tourism activities, impact and importance of adventure tourism, the future of adventure tourism, final words.

So, what is Adventure Tourism?

Adventure tourism is a niche category of travel that focuses on exploration with perceived risk, typically involving physical exertion and outdoor environments.

It’s a way to experience a destination more actively and interactively, emphasizing personal encounters with the natural and cultural aspects of a region.

From rafting in untamed rivers and trekking through dense jungles to scaling mountain peaks and diving into the ocean’s depths, adventure tourism pushes the boundaries of conventional tourism, inviting travelers to step out of their comfort zones.

Whether a local day trip or an international expedition, adventure tourism offers a unique, memorable, and enriching travel experience.

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Adventurous travel dates back to ancient times when our ancestors traversed vast continents in search of food, shelter, and greener pastures.

However, the concept of adventure tourism as we know it today began to take shape around the 19th century.

During this era, outdoor activities such as mountaineering and rafting became increasingly popular, marking the inception of organized adventure travel.

Several key events and developments have shaped the evolution of adventure tourism.

These include the formation of key institutions, such as mountaineering clubs and the Boy Scouts, which fostered a culture of outdoor activities.

In the years following World War II, the modern adventure travel industry began to take shape, driven by increased leisure time and disposable income.

Technology has played a significant role in propelling the growth of adventure travel.

The invention of transportation technologies such as railways and airplanes has made remote locations more accessible, opening up new adventure travel opportunities.

Types of Adventure Tourism

Adventure tourism is a vast sector featuring numerous activities and diverse environments.

Here are some types, each providing unique experiences to thrill-seekers.

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Making adventure accessible for everyone is a growing trend.

Many adventure operators now offer experiences designed specifically for people with disabilities, including wheelchair-accessible hiking trails and adaptive water sports equipment.

This way, everyone can find an answer to “what is adventure tourism?” and experience it firsthand.

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For those who seek the most thrilling and sometimes dangerous experiences, extreme tourism is a go-to.

This could involve traveling to harsh environments like deserts or the Arctic or participating in high-risk activities such as base jumping or volcano boarding.

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As the name suggests, jungle tourism involves traveling in dense forest regions.

Activities can include jungle trekking, wildlife spotting, or staying in a jungle lodge.

Adventure tourism brings travelers closer to nature and offers unique biodiversity encounters.

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This form of adventure tourism involves long-distance journeys, either individually or in groups.

Travelers use different modes of transport like buses, trains, or personal vehicles, experiencing different cultures and landscapes along the way.

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If one asks, what is adventure tourism in the water? Scuba diving is a common answer.

This activity allows people to explore underwater landscapes and marine life, providing an entirely different adventure perspective.

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Mountaineering and trekking take travelers into rugged, often high-altitude environments.

They’re for those who enjoy the challenge of overcoming steep, difficult terrain and revel in the solitude that mountain environments can provide.

The satisfaction of reaching a peak or navigating through a challenging trail can’t be overstated, making this type of adventure tourism a fantastic choice for those willing to push their physical and mental boundaries.

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Bungee jumping offers the epitome of an adrenaline rush.

Participants leap from a high platform, such as a bridge or crane, with an elastic cord attached to their ankles or harness.

As they plummet toward the ground, the cord reaches its maximum stretch, then pulls them back upwards, creating a pendulum-like motion.

Bungee jumping is a popular choice for those seeking a quick, intense thrill.

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These activities cater to a wide variety of adventure-seekers.

Mountain biking typically involves off-road trails, steep descents, and challenging terrains, requiring technical bike-handling skills.

On the other hand, cycling tours can range from leisurely rides through picturesque landscapes to long-distance road trips, making it a versatile option for adventure tourism.

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Canoeing and rafting are water-based activities that can offer both adrenaline-fueled adventures and serene nature appreciation.

White-water rafting through rapids offers a thrilling, team-based experience, whereas canoeing on a calm lake or river can be a peaceful, solitary adventure.

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These air-based activities provide a bird’s-eye view of the landscapes.

Zip-lining involves speeding along a cable from a height, often across beautiful vistas.

Paragliding is a more extended experience, where participants glide through the air using a lightweight, free-flying parachute, often led by a professional guide.

Both offer unique ways to experience the thrill of flight.

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At the heart of adventure tourism is the simple act of hiking and exploring.

This range from short day hikes in local natural parks to multi-day expeditions in remote wilderness areas.

The pace of hiking allows travelers to deeply connect with the environment, observe wildlife, and appreciate the small details often missed in faster-paced activities.

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Both these activities require physical strength and technical skill, making them challenging and rewarding.

Canyoneering involves traveling through canyons using various techniques such as walking, climbing, jumping, and swimming.

Rock climbing, whether traditional, sport, or bouldering, tests participants’ strength and endurance as they navigate a natural or artificial rock formation.

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These activities take adventurers into unique environments.

Sandboarding, akin to snowboarding but on sand dunes, offers a unique thrill and a chance to enjoy desert landscapes.

Caving, also known as spelunking, involves exploring caves and can range from leisurely tours of easily accessible caves to technical pursuits involving climbing and crawling through tight passages.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Carola „Bandit“ Kessler (@earnyourbacon)

Adventure tourism comprises a plethora of activities that offer unique experiences to travelers.

One such activity is day hiking, where individuals traverse scenic trails and paths for a day. This activity is popular for its low cost and adaptability to different fitness levels.

Backpacking, another popular adventure tourism activity, involves carrying shelter and provisions and traveling for an extended period. It provides an immersive experience of the local culture and nature.

Zip-lining offers a different perspective of the surrounding environment. It involves gliding through treetops on a cable, experiencing the thrill of speed and height.

For those with a penchant for heights, climbing activities such as rock and mountain climbing offer an exhilarating challenge. This activity requires both physical stamina and mental resolve.

Free fall activities, such as skydiving and bungee jumping, offer an adrenaline rush like no other. This thrill-seeking activity is growing in popularity in various adventure tourism destinations.

Water sports like rafting provide a different kind of thrill, where one battles the swift currents of a river.

Mountain biking allows adventurers to navigate rough terrains and steep slopes, presenting a challenging yet thrilling activity. Skiing and snowboarding are popular activities that attract tourists to snowy regions worldwide.

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Adventure tourism has a significant impact on local economies.

As this form of tourism often takes place in remote areas, it brings income and jobs to regions that may otherwise rely on traditional industries.

It also encourages sustainable and responsible travel practices as it largely depends on the natural environment.

Besides economic benefits, adventure tourism fosters cultural exchanges and learning opportunities.

As tourists interact with locals, they learn about different cultures, traditions, and ways of life.

This not only enriches their travel experience but also promotes understanding and tolerance among different cultures.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Eco Trip Guru (@ecotripguru)

The future of adventure tourism looks promising, with emerging trends such as disaster, ghetto, social, and eco-tourism.

Disaster tourism involves visiting areas affected by natural or man-made disasters, while ghetto tourism involves visiting impoverished urban areas.

Social tourism focuses on engaging with local communities, and eco-tourism emphasizes sustainable travel practices.

Digital technology, like GPS and social networking, is influencing adventure tourism.

These technologies help tourists navigate unfamiliar terrains, share experiences, and even find new adventure spots.

However, there are challenges, such as ensuring the sustainability of adventure tourism practices and preserving natural and cultural resources.

Adventure tourism has evolved from ancient travel practices to a booming industry that offers a multitude of experiences.

As we explore what is adventure tourism further, it becomes apparent that this industry is about much more than seeking thrills.

It’s about connecting with nature, experiencing different cultures, pushing boundaries, and promoting sustainable practices.

As the sector continues to evolve, travelers are encouraged to embrace adventure tourism safely and responsibly, ensuring a sustainable future for this exhilarating form of travel.

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California's Palm Springs & Joshua Tree Multi-Adventure Tour

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National Park's Giant Sequoias & Iconic Half Dome

Charleston & Savannah Multi-Adventure Tour

Glacier & Waterton Lakes Multi-Adventure Tour

Great Smoky Mountains Multi-Adventure Tour

National Park Adventures in Tennessee

Hawaii's Big Island Multi-Adventure Tour

Maine Easygoing Multi-Adventure Tour

Maine Multi-Adventure Tour

Oregon's Bend Multi-Adventure Tour - Weekend Getaway

Oregon's Cascades & Crater Lake Multi-Adventure Tour

Oregon's Columbia River Gorge Easygoing Multi-Adventure Tour

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We can help, a portal to explore outdoor recreation, adventure sports, adventure tours, and unique travel experiences.

Everyone should have the opportunity to experience adventure and be inspired to explore our world. That's why we created our adventure portal, a one-stop shop for information on outdoor recreation, adventure sports, adventure tours, and unique travel experiences. No matter what your interests are, we have something for you. We've got complete information on 50+ top adventure activities, so you can easily find the perfect adventure. And if you're unsure where to start, our site offers recommendations and tips to help you plan your next adventure. So whether you're looking for a new experience or want to learn more about the world around you, we can help. Explore with us today!​​

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Going out into nature and engaging in physical activities can get your heart rate up and boost your mood and provide much-needed mental rest. Walking, hiking, swimming, biking, and kayaking, to name a few, offer excellent opportunities to immerse yourself in the beauty of your surroundings and clear your mind. Taking time away from screens – even for a few minutes – can be incredibly refreshing. Physically, these activities help promote better circulation by pumping blood throughout your body more efficiently, building endurance and flexibility, helping with weight loss goals, strengthening your core muscles and bones, and boosting energy levels. With such a long list of benefits to explore through outdoor activity, there's no reason not to incorporate a small amount of these activities into our daily routines​​.

Sports and recreation are great ways to enjoy being social. There are multiple advantages when it comes to people participating together in these activities. Playing sports helps build physical skills, resilience, and teamwork among the players, which can be valuable characteristics later in life. Additionally, playing sports encourages discipline by setting goals that require practice and dedication to succeed. Socially, sports allow people of all ages to form friendships with teammates, opponents, and friends. Finally, recreational activities offer participants a chance to socialize outside their comfort zone with individuals who share similar interests. In short, many remarkable opportunities come with playing sports or engaging in activities that help one physically or emotionally, and socially.

Discover Adventure Categories

​Here are four life-enhancing adventure categories worth exploring and then going out and trying some out. You'll be amazed at how good you'll feel doing something that inspires you and makes you feel alive with excitement. Each category will offer unique activities ranging from mild to wild and free to pricey. There is something for everyone to try and do in this adventure portal. Our goal is to inspire you to get off the couch, leave your comfort zone behind, and get outdoors and go on an adventure. 

Outdoor Recreation, Adventure Sports, Adventure Tours, and Unique Travel Experiences offer incredibly varied experiences for the willing participant. Although they are distinct categories, some activities could fit into one or more of them. Try out each activity to create an adventure tailored to your preference and style. Outdoor recreation allows you to explore nature and get in touch with your surroundings. Adventure Sports offer thrills, excitement, and a sense of accomplishment. Adventure Tours blend exploration with guided educational activities. Finally, Unique Travel Experiences will give you lasting memories with their exotic locales, friendly people, and exciting cultural sights that you won't soon forget!

Outdoor Recreation

​Outdoor recreation is simply a form of leisure or sport in the great outdoors. It includes activities as diverse as camping, fishing, backpacking, hunting, mountain biking, skiing, sailing, and more. If you prefer being outdoors to staying indoors, chances are there's an outdoor recreation activity for you. For example, if you're looking for challenges and thrills, canoeing or skiing down a steep slope might be your cup of tea. If you're more laid back and enjoy the calming effects of nature, taking a hike in the woods or playing a round of golf could be perfect for you. There is something special about connecting with nature while doing an activity that can bring us joy and invigoration - no wonder why outdoor recreation has been so popular over time!

Adventure Sports

​Adventure sports involve a bit of danger and the potential for adrenaline-rushing thrills. These can range from white water rafting in the rapids to rappelling your local canyon. There's no shortage of adventure sports available if you're seeking excitement. Bungee jumping, deep sea diving, skydiving, snowboarding, kayaking, and rock climbing are just some exhilarating possibilities. Adventure sports allow you to explore nature on a whole new level - both physically and mentally - and for those brave enough to participate, it promises an unforgettable experience.

Adventure Tours

​Adventure tours are a great way to explore new places quickly and efficiently, especially if your mode of transportation has legs or an engine. These types of tours offer plenty of exciting experiences. Examples include:

Dirt biking in Patagonia.

Motorcycling across the beautiful red rocks of Sedona.

Off-road jeeping in Moab.

Touring the Alaskan tundra on ATVs.

 Riding mules to the bottom of the Grand Canyon

Riding an airboat through alligator-infested waters

An adventure tour gives you a unique perspective of your destination that traditional methods can't provide. So why not rev up your vacation and make unforgettable memories on an adrenaline-filled adventure tour?

Unique Travel Experiences

​Unique travel experiences are some of the most memorable and can create unforgettable memories. Whether you're looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience or something to check off your bucket list, there are many incredible options! How about spending the night in an ice hotel? Or camping out in a yurt beneath the stars? You could even stay in a tree house high above the forest floor, go on a safari to spot different wildlife or take a couple of days to experience cliff tenting. It's amazing what unique experiences await you when you're open to trying new things!

Get Going, What Are You Waiting For

Now you have all the tools at your disposal in this portal to get going and get out there and try something new and exciting. What are you waiting for? Don't let life pass you by while you sit on the sidelines. Remember, be safe, have fun, and enjoy every minute of it, whether solo or with your best friends or family. You'll be glad you did. See you out there.

Explore Outdoor Recreation and Adventure Sports

What Is Adventure Tourism?

• First Online: 26 October 2019

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• Tim Stott 3  

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This chapter considers a definition of adventure tourism that includes physical activity, the natural environment and cultural immersion. Both hard and soft adventure can be important. The trends and numbers involved in this tourism area are discussed, including the growth in demand. Other types of often related niche tourism types are considered and defined, such as ecotourism, wildlife tourism, sustainable and responsible tourism.

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Huddart, D., Stott, T. (2020). What Is Adventure Tourism?. In: Adventure Tourism. Palgrave Macmillan, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-18623-4_1

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Adventure Tourism – Definitions, History, Types, Characteristics & Features, or Importance

Adventure tourism is defined as the movement of the people from one to another place outside their comfort zone for exploration or travel to remote areas, exotic and possibly hostile areas. Adventure tourism is a type of tourism in which tourist do some adventures activities like as skydiving, hill climbing, scuba diving.

Adventure tourism is very popular among young age tourists. Adventure tourism gains much of its excitement by allowing the tourists to step outside their comfort zone. This may be from experiencing cultural shock or through the performance of acts, that required some degree of risk (real or perceived) and physical danger.

Adventure travel is a leisure activity that takes place in an unusual, exotic, remote or wilderness destination . It tends to be associated with high levels of activity by the participant, most of it outdoors.  Adventure travelers expect to experience various level of risk, excitement, and tranquility and be personally tested. In particular, they are explorers of unspoiled, exotic parts of the planet and also seek personal challenges.

The main factor distinguishing adventure tourism from all other forms of tourism is the planning and preparation involved.

Definitions  of Adventure Tourism

Adventure tourism is a new concept in the tourism industry. Tourism industry adopted adventure tourism, but there is not any specific definition of adventure tourism . Most commentators concur that adventure tourism is a niche sector of the tourism industry, but there are many other niche sectors in tourism which have same characteristics that overlap with adventure tourism such as ecotourism, activity tourism or adventure travel.

One of them can confuse. Adventure tourism is a complicated and ambiguous topic. Some important definitions of adventure tourism are following as:

According to the Adventure Travel Trade Association , “adventure tourism is a tourist activity that includes physical activity, cultural exchange, or activities in nature.

According to Muller and Cleaver , “Adventure tourism is characterized by its ability to provide the tourist with relatively high levels of sensory stimulation, usually achieved by including physically challenging experiential components with the tourist experience.”

Canadian Tourism Commission in 1995 defines adventure tourism as , “an outdoor leisure activity that takes place in an unusual, exotic, remote or wilderness destination, involves some form of unconventional means of transportation, and tends to be associated with low or high levels of activity.”

According to Sung et al ,  “adventure tourism is the sum of the phenomena and relationships arising from the interactions of adventure touristic activities with the natural environment away from the participant’s usual place of residence area and containing elements of risk in which the outcome is influenced by the participation, setting, and the organizer of the tourist’s experience.”

According to UNWTO , ” adventure tourism can be domestic or international, and like all travel, it must include an overnight stay, but not last longer than one year.”

History of Adventure Tourism

Humans are traveling from ancient time for the searching for foods, and for many survival reasons. Humans have been engaging in adventurous travel for hundreds of year via exploration . People traveled in ancient time for exploration of sea roots, new destination, or even a new country.

However, commercial adventure travel is a new phenomenon, in which travelers hire a professional guide to provide a range of technical support and equipment, as well as cultural and nature interpretation.

In the mid-1800s, adventurers began to push the limits of mountain climbing and river rafting, with the first ascent of the Matterhorn in 1865 and decent of the Colorado River in 1869 . Shortly thereafter, two key institutions were formed. The National Geographic Society and Explorers Club . These institutions are supporting adventures tourism continuously.

In the mid- 1950s, many first ascents and descents attracted global attention and inspired many people to attempt their own expeditions. Maurice Herzog’s ascent of Annapurna in 1950 , Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzig Norgay’s ascent of Mount Everest , and other successes were hailed in the media around the world. This was the takeoff of modern adventure tourism.

Today, adventure tourism is a vibrant, dynamic, and fast-changing sector with new variants routinely added into the possible experience.

Types of Adventure Tourism

Adventure tourism has grown exponentially all over the world in recent years with tourist visiting destinations previously undiscovered. This allows for a new destination to market themselves as truly unique, appealing to those traveler looking for rare, incomparable experience.

Adventure tourism includes various activities like caving, hiking, sailing, trekking etc.  Adventure tourism categorized into two categories . These are following as:

Hard Adventure

Soft adventure.

Hard adventure refers to activities with high levels of risk, requiring intense commitment and advanced skills. Hard tourism includes the activities like climbing mountains/rock/ice, trekking, caving etc.

Hard adventure activities are highly risked in nature. Professional guide, advance level skills are required to perform these activities. Many tourists died during climbing mountains, caving every day. There is an interesting fact that is for K2, world 2nd highest mountain, for every two people who submit one dies .

Soft adventure refers to activities with a perceived risk but low levels of risk, requiring minimal commitment and beginning skills ; most of these activities are led by experienced guides. Soft tourism includes the activities like backpacking, camping, hiking, kayaking etc.

Soft adventure activities are low risk in nature. These activities are led by professional guides. Soft adventure is a popular category in adventure tourism. On average, 25% trips taken from North America and Europe are soft adventure trips.

Adventure Tourism Activities

Adventure travelers are early adopters by nature, meaning they are generally more willing to try new destinations, activities, and travel products. Popular activities change rapidly, and it seems there is a new twist on an existing sport evert years.

Some activities have low risk and some have high. Adventure tourism activities are classified into two types :

Hard Adventure Activities

Soft adventure activities.

Hard adventure activities are highly risky and dangerous in nature. These activities are following as:

• Mountain Climbing
• Rock Climbing
• Ice Climbing

These activities are less dangerous and risk as compared to hard adventure activities. These activities are always lead by professional guides. These activities are following as:

• Backpacking
• Birdwatching
• Eco-tourism
• Horseback riding
• Kayaking/sea/whitewater
• Orienteering
• Scuba Diving
• Snowboarding

Adventure tourism activities sit well with the environment because the natural world provides us with the resources for many of the activities that provide risk, challenge, sensory stimulus, novelty, discovery and so on.

Characteristics and Features of Adventure Tourism

The threefold combination of activity, nature, and culture marks adventure travel as an all-round challenge. Some unique characteristics and features of adventure tourism are following as:

• Physical activity, i.e. activities involving physical exertion or psychomotor skills.
• Contact with nature, i.e. activities bringing contact with the natural world in general, or with specific wildlife.
• Contact with different cultures, i.e. people, faith, lifestyles
• Journeys, i.e. vehicle-, animal-, or human-power.
• Uncertain outcomes
• Danger and risk
• Anticipated rewards
• Stimulation and excitement
• Exploration and discovery
• Contrasting emotions

Adventure Tourism Supplier

A tourism supply chain is the system of people, products, activities, and materials that get a product or service from its raw state through production and distribution to the consumer .

As with any sector, volume discounts drive the mass price point, so major retailers primarily market select trips that sell in high volume. The supply chain for these mass tourism products is often very simple, comprising only transportation and accommodation elements.

The adventure tourism supply chain is more complex. Niche products often require specializes in knowledge and operations. Adventure tourism’s supply chain linkages go very deep, and this is one of the key reasons that adventure tourism delivers greater benefits at the local level.

Supply chains vary from destination to destination. The makeup of the most involved adventure supply chain is typical as follows:

Without a proper supply chain, the tourism sector can not survive. Tourism suppliers are the backbone of the tourism industry . Adventure tourism suppliers work at a different, different level like as domestic as well international level.

Adventure Tourism Importance and Benefits

Adventure tourism is one of the fastest-growing sectors of the tourism sector, attracting high-value customers, supporting local economies, and encouraging sustainable practices.

The continued growth of this sector creates net positive impacts not only for tourism, but also for destination economies, their people, and their environment.

Some importance and benefits of adventure tourism are following as:

Employment Generation

Adventure tourism generates the jobs. Adventure tourism generates directs jobs to accommodation , transportation sector and for travel agencies or tour operators . Adventure tourism also provides the indirect job to tourism suppliers.

Adventure tourism plays an important role in the generation of employment in the economy.

Foreign Exchange

Adventure tourism attracts the foreign tourists at a large scale, as a result, it helps in foreign exchange generation.

When tourist travel to another country, they spend a large amount of money on accommodation, transportation, and shopping. Adventure tourism generates foreign exchange and supports the economy of the host country.

Economy Development

Adventure tourism helps in the development of the host country’s economy. Adventure tourism activities directly support the economy in various forms. The more tourists, more economic growth.

Support Local Communities

Adventure tourism helps in the development of infrastructure and support local communities. Adventure tourism activities directly contributed to the local economy of the communities and increase the living standards of local people.

Conservation of Natural Resources

Adventure tourism activities are nature-based activities. Leaders in the adventure tourism industry are dedicated to making this tourism segment as sustainable as possible. They help in conservation of natural resources as well as cultural.

Creating Business Opportunities

Adventure tourism activities create new business opportunities. There are companies that specialize in helping emerging adventure tourism operators market their product.  Each new adventure tourism activity creates a new business opportunity.

Local and Foreign Investment

Adventure tourism creates business opportunities, as a result, it attracts the local as well as international investors.  Investors invest their money in the accommodation, transportation, and into travel trade organization.

Adventure tourism plays an important role in the economy of the host country .

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Chapter 5. Recreation

Don Webster

Learning Objectives

• Differentiate between recreation, outdoor recreation, adventure tourism, and nature-based tourism
• Describe the significance, size, and economic contribution of this sector to the overall tourism industry in BC
• Identify key industry organizations in recreation, outdoor recreation, and adventure tourism
• Classify different subsectors of recreation, outdoor recreation, and adventure tourism
• Recognize the unique challenges facing recreation, outdoor recreation, and adventure tourism in BC

In this chapter, we discuss the concept of recreation in tourism and hospitality. Recreation can be defined as the pursuit of leisure activities during one’s spare time (Tribe, 2011) and can include vastly different activities such as golfing, sport fishing, and rock climbing. Defining recreation as it pertains to tourism, however, is more challenging.

Let’s start by exploring some recreation-based terms that are common in the tourism industry.  Outdoor recreation can be defined as “outdoor activities that take place in a natural setting, as opposed to a highly cultivated or managed landscape such as a playing field or golf course” (Tourism BC, 2013, p. 47).  This term is typically applied to outdoor activities that individuals engage in and that are located close to their community. When these activities are further away, and people must travel some distance to participate in them, they are often described as adventure tourism.

According to the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), adventure tourism is “a trip that includes at least two of the following three elements: physical activity, natural environment, and cultural immersion” (UNWTO, 2014, p.12).  Examples of adventure tourism in BC include river rafting, helicopter skiing, and rock climbing.

Take a Closer Look: UNWTO Global Report 

The Global Report on Adventure Tourism by UNWTO offers an in-depth analysis of the global adventure travel sector. It can be found at http://affiliatemembers.unwto.org/publication/global-report-adventure-tourism

Adventure tourism can be “soft” or “hard.” Differentiating between the two is somewhat subjective, but is loosely based on the level of experience required, the level of fitness required, and the degree to which the participant is exposed to risk (UNWTO, 2014).  Examples of soft adventure include wildlife viewing or moderate hiking, whereas river rafting or rock climbing would usually be considered hard adventure.

Another term that is used, one that overlaps with the definitions of outdoor recreation and adventure tourism, is  nature-based tourism, which refers to “those tourism experiences that are directly or indirectly dependent on the natural environment” (Tourism BC, 2005b, p.6).  This term is often used to describe activities that are closely connected to nature, such as whale watching, birding, or self-propelled travel such as hiking and kayaking.

As you can see, there are challenges in classifying recreation in tourism. For instance, if people kayak near their home or community, it may be considered outdoor recreation. If they travel afar for that same activity, it likely is designated as adventure tourism. If the kayaking is done in protected, mild conditions, it would be considered soft adventure, but if done in a challenging and risky river descent, it may be classified as hard adventure.

Of course, each of the above scenarios of kayaking could be considered nature-based tourism if it is strongly linked to the natural environment. Ultimately, categorization is based on a combination of several factors, including manner of engagement in the activity (risk exposure, experience requirement, group or solo activity), the distance travelled to access the activity, and the type of environment (proximity to nature, level of challenge involved) that that the activity occurs in.

A 2013 adventure tourism market study discovered that people who travel for adventure experiences tend to be well-educated, with 48% holding a four-year degree or higher credential. They value natural beauty and rank this as the highest factor when choosing a destination, and the most cited reasons for their travel are relaxation “relaxation, exploring new places, time with family, and learning about different cultures” (UNWTO, 2014, p.15).

Globally, it is estimated that the continents of Europe, North America, and South America account for 69% of adventure tourism, or US$263 billion in adventure travel spending. Adventure tourists tend to be seen as high-value visitors, with as much of 70% of their expenditures remaining in the communities visited (UNWTO, 2014).

The size, extent, and economic contribution of recreation, outdoor recreation, and adventure tourism in British Columbia is also substantial. The rest of this chapter explores the sector in the province in more detail.

Recreation and Adventure Tourism in BC

Studies have shown that nearly all residents of BC partake in some kind of outdoor recreation activity during any given year. Approximately 85% of those participants indicate that these recreational activities were very important to them (Tourism BC, 2013).

Spotlight On: Outdoor Recreation Council of BC

The Outdoor Recreation Council of BC (ORC) describes itself as “promoting access to and responsible use of BC’s public lands and waters for public outdoor recreation” (Outdoor Recreation Council of BC, 2014). The Council promotes the benefits of outdoor recreation, represents the community to government and the general public, advocates and educates about responsible land use, provides a forum for exchanging information, and connects different outdoor recreation groups. For more information, visit the Outdoor Recreation Council of BC website : http://orcbc.ca

It is estimated that there are approximately 2,200 outdoor/adventure tourism operators in BC. In 2001, this accounted for 21,000 jobs and $556 million in direct wages. The last sector-wide study in 2005 estimated that business revenues in outdoor adventure tourism accounted for approximately $854 million in annual business revenues (Tourism BC, 2013). Given the growth of adventure tourism over the last decade, it is likely these numbers have risen.

Additionally, in the current five-year provincial tourism strategy, entitled Gaining the Edge, outdoor/adventure tourism is indicated as one of six key areas targeted for growth ( British Columbia Ministry of Jobs, Tourism and Innovation , 2012). This government support, combined with the rapid growth of the outdoor and adventure tourism industry, point to a strong future for this sector.

Take a Closer Look: Outdoor Adventure Sector Profile

Outdoor Adventure: Tourism Sector Profile, a report produced by Destination BC, includes information on the size, type, and characteristics of tourism companies in this sector. Also included is market demand for these activities and future challenges the sector faces. You can find the report at Outdoor Tourism Sector Profile [PDF] : http://www.destinationbc.ca/getattachment/Research/Research-by-Activity/All-Sector-Profiles/Outdoor-Adventure-Sector-Profile,-May-2014/Tourism-Sector-Profile_OutdoorAdventure_May2014.pdf.aspx

This section covers two key types of recreation and tourism, with a focus on British Columbia:

• Land-based recreation and tourism
• Water-based recreation and tourism

It’s not possible to detail all the recreational activities available in BC, but by the end of this section, you will have an understanding of the key unique activities available in the province.

Land-Based Recreation and Tourism

Golf courses and resorts.

A 2009 economic impact study found that more than six million Canadians participate in the game of golf each year, making this sport the number one outdoor recreational activity in Canada based on participation. Golf also directly employs more than 155,000 people and contributes more than $11 billion directly to Canada’s gross domestic product. BC has over 300 golf course facilities, and with over $2 billion annually in direct economic activity, the golfing industry in the province is the fourth largest in Canada (Strategic Networks Inc., 2009).

Golf is a significant tourism attraction in BC; in 2007 the province was chosen as the “Best Golf Course Destination in North America” by the International Association of Golf Tour Operators (Destination BC, 2014c).  Part of the draw is the diverse environment; golfers can choose from lush coastal forests to desert environments, and many courses have a viewscape of mountains or the ocean.

A 2006 study by the Canadian Tourism Commission (CTC) detailed both demographic and economic factors related to the Canadian golf industry. Significant findings included that there were more than 3.4 million golf travellers in Canada annually, and that of those travellers, approximately 34% travelled to BC. In addition, the Canadian golf participation rate (for the total Canadian population) was 21.5%, which is among the highest golf participation rates of any country in the world. Golfing provides an opportunity to attract significant tourism revenue as the average golf traveller has a much higher than average income level, with up to 50% of all golf travellers earning $100,000 or more per annum (Tourism BC, 2009b).

Spotlight On: British Columbia Golf Marketing Alliance

The British Columbia Golf Marketing Alliance is a strategic alliance that represents 58 regional and destination golf resorts in BC. The purpose of the alliance is to grow the game of golf in BC and achieve recognition nationally and internationally as a leading golf destination. The alliance supports and distributes information about research, lobbying efforts, and golf industry events. For more information, visit the Allied Golf Association of BC website : http://aga-bc.org/committees/recreational-golf-committee/

Mountain Resorts and Nordic Centres

Resorts in British Columbia range from smaller eco-lodges to large ski areas. Mountain resorts and nordic centres are part of the larger resort tourism sector, which in 2004 was valued at $1.9 billion (Tourism BC, 2011c).

Ski/Snowboard Mountain Resorts

BC’s many world-class facilities and high-quality snow conditions provide mass appeal for downhill skiing and snowboarding. Mountain resorts in BC can be separated into two principal categories: destination resorts and regional resorts. Destination mountain resorts are often significantly larger and offer a greater range of amenities such as on mountain accommodation and food services; they are also generally marketed to out-of-area and international visitors. Examples of a destination resort would include Whistler Blackcomb Ski Resort. On the other hand, regional mountain resorts are usually smaller in size and capacity, have fewer amenities, and often cater more directly to the local community (Tourism BC, 2011c) such as Whitewater Ski Resort in the Kootenay Rockies.

Spotlight On: Canada West Ski Areas Association

Ski areas in Western Canada (Alberta and BC) are represented by the Canada West Ski Areas Association (CWSAA), which has a diverse mandate that includes marketing, advocacy, environmental stewardship, and risk management. For more information, visit the Canada West Ski Areas Association website : http://www.cwsaa.org

The aggregate economic value of destination mountain resorts is significant; one study by Tourism BC found that 13 of these resorts were responsible for generating approximately 1.1 billion in revenue, or 8% of the total provincial tourism revenues in 2008. Additionally, they provided the equivalent of 14,267 full-time equivalent jobs (Tourism BC, 2011c). Furthermore, BC’s top mountain resorts have received many prestigious awards (Tourism BC, 2011c, p. 11):

• Whistler Blackcomb has consistently been named the #1 ski resort in North America.
• In 2009, Sun Peaks was named one of the “Top 20 Ski Resorts in North America” by 
Condé Nast Traveler.
• Big White Ski Resort was recognized in 2009 as a “Top 5 Family Resort” by the UK-based Sunday Times.

The publicity that these resorts receive has undoubtedly reflected positively on the rest of the BC tourism industry.

Spotlight On: “Ski It to Believe It”

Destination BC offers a specific mountain resort marketing website for 13 destination resorts in BC called “Ski It to Believe It.” The site features live updates on snow conditions, resort info, a map featuring all BC ski destinations, blogs, and dynamic content featuring visitors enjoying various skiing experiences including heli, cat, backcountry, and downhill skiing. For more information, visit the Ski It to Believe It website : http://skiittobelieveit.com

Nordic Centres

Nordic skiing, also commonly known as cross-country skiing, is a low-risk, low-impact winter sport popular across Canada. It differs from backcountry skiing in that participants ski on groomed trails typically maintained as part of an established facility (Cross Country BC, n.d.).

Spotlight On: Whistler Sport Legacies

Leading up to the 2010 Winter Olympics held in Vancouver and Whistler, there was much debate about the need for a continuing legacy from the event. Whistler Sport Legacies is an example of a recreational, tourism, and sport legacy that can emerge out of a mega event such as the Olympics. For more information, visit the Whistler Sport Legacies website : http://www.whistlersportlegacies.com

With more than 50 cross-country ski centres across BC, and a season that often exceeds that of downhill skiing (November to May in many areas), the sport attracts large numbers of local and inbound recreation enthusiasts. Trail networks have been developed in both stand-alone environments, as well as in partnership with large mountain resorts such as Silver Star in Vernon, Sun Peaks in Kamloops, Cypress Mountain above Vancouver, and Rossland in the Kootenays. Many of these trail networks offer both groomed and track-set trails, a number are lit for night skiing.

Spotlight On: Silver Star’s Sovereign Lake Nordic Centre

Located just outside Vernon, Sovereign Lake is Canada’s largest daily groomed trail network that includes 105 kilometres of trails varying from green (easy) to black diamond (most difficult); a further trail expansion is planned for 2015. For more information, visit Sovereign Lake’s website : http://www.sovereignlake.com

Backcountry Skiing and Snowboarding

Backcountry skiing and snowboarding offers a recreational activity in a wilderness setting, away from any established mountain resorts, lifts, or trails. BC is regarded as a world-class destination for backcountry access, and has recently seen considerable and sustained growth in this sector (Porteus, 2013). The motivator for pursuing this activity for most people is primarily the lure of fresh, untracked snow in a beautiful mountain setting. Some backcountry skiers and snowboarders combine this activity with helicopter or snowcat skiing.

Spotlight On: Backcountry Lodges Association of British Columbia

The Backcountry Lodges Association of British Columbia (BLABC) represents backcountry lodges in the province. Its consumer site features a find-a-lodge function, profiles for summer and winter lodges, the ability to check conditions in various backcountry areas, and consumer content including a blog and videos. For more information, visit the Backcountry Lodges Association of BC : www.backcountrylodgesofbc.com

Helicopter skiing transports skiers and snowboarders by helicopter to the backcountry. It is typically a professionally guided activity, with packages ranging in duration from a single day to weeks. The skiing/snowboarding is often packaged with a luxury lodge accommodation, gourmet meals, and access to spa treatments.

Heliskiing was pioneered in Canada by Swiss mountain guide Hans Gmoser, who founded the company Canadian Mountain Holidays, which has grown to be the largest heliskiing company in the world (Canadian Mountain Holidays, n.d.).  Today, there are close to 20 helicopter skiing companies in BC, which represents the largest concentration of commercial operations in the world (HeliCat Canada, n.d.).

Snowcat skiing is alpine skiing accessed by travelling to the top of the ski area in a snowcat (an enclosed cab vehicle on tracks). As with heliskiing, this activity also has its commercial roots in BC. Snowcat skiing was pioneered in 1975 by Selkirk Wilderness Skiing as an alternative to both lift-serviced and helicopter-accessed riding and skiing (Selkirk Wilderness Skiing, n.d.).  It is typically a guided activity due to the avalanche risk associated with the terrain. As with heliskiing, snowcat skiers have the option of choosing single-day or multi-day vacation packages. During the winter of 2015, there were 11 established snowcat skiing operations in BC (HeliCat Canada, n.d.).

Spotlight On: Avalanche Canada

This organization provides public avalanche forecasts and education for any backcountry travellers venturing into avalanche terrain. This vital service is provided to the public free of charge, as Avalanche Canada is a not-for-profit society dedicated to a vision of eliminating avalanche injuries and fatalities in Canada. In addition to the website, it provides training programs and shares safety best practice. For more information, visit  Avalance Canada : http://www.avalanche.ca

Guides for these operations are typically certified by either the Association of Canadian Mountain Guides (ACMG) or the Canadian Ski Guide Association (CSGA).  Both organizations assess the guides for their expertise in technical skills, avalanche forecasting, risk management and emergency response before issuing certification. The process is extensive and rigorous, taking much time and commitment for guides to become fully certified.

Spotlight On: HeliCat Canada  

Based in Revelstoke, BC, HeliCat Canada is an industry organization that represents heliskiing and snowcat skiing operators in Canada.  It provides regulation, advocacy, and marketing for the operators. Since 1978, the organization has worked closely with government and industry to develop operations guidelines. For more information, visit  Helicat Canada : www.helicatcanada.com

Off-Road Recreational Vehicles

An off-road recreational vehicle (ORV) is any vehicle designed to be driven off road that is not included within any other vehicle classification framework. This includes snowmobiles, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), and dirt bikes (British Columbia Ministry of Forest, Lands and Natural Resource Operations, 2014). ORV use is recognized as a considerable contributor to the BC economy, owing primarily to recreational users, but also from tourist visits.

Recreational snowmobiling in BC is represented by the British Columbia Snowmobile Federation (BCSF).  The BCSF’s mandate is to represent recreational snowmobile clubs through advocacy, education, and stewardship (BCSF, n.d.). Commercial snowmobiling is represented by the British Columbia Commercial Snowmobile Operators Association (BCCSOA), a group of snowmobile tour operators who have mobilized to support marketing, product development, and government advocacy initiatives (BCCSOA, n.d.).

ORV use has long been the subject of conflict between non-motorized and motorized recreational users of the wilderness. Non-motorized users claim that motorized users negatively impact the wilderness through noise pollution and environmental damage by degrading trails and scaring wildlife (Webster, 2013).  Recently, wilderness tourism operators who hold Crown land tenure to operate in remote areas have complained that ORVs negatively affect their visitors’ experiences. Some of these conflicts may now be mitigated through the implementation of the Off-Road Vehicle Act, which was passed in 2014.  This Act requires mandatory registration of ORVs, and includes elements that promote safety, enforcement of regulations, education, and outreach (British Columbia Ministry Forest, Lands and Natural Resource Operations, 2014).

Guest Ranchers and Hunting Outfitters

Guest and dude ranches.

Guest ranches and dude ranches offer personal and home-like vacation experiences centered on horseback riding and an authentic ranch experience. These operators typically offer accommodation in a ranch-type environment, and include as part of the experience the opportunity to participate in ranch activities such as horse riding and cattle wrangling. Other services and activities may also be available, such as spa treatments, hiking, canoeing, and fishing (BC Guest Ranchers Association, n.d.).

Spotlight On: The British Columbia Guest Ranchers Association

The British Columbia Guest Ranchers Association (BCGRA) represents guest and dude ranch operators in the province. It serves and represents its members through cooperative marketing, advertising, development of operational standards, and member pricing on liability insurance plans (BCGRA, n.d.). For more information, visit the British Columbia Guest Ranchers Association website : http://www.bcguestranches.com

A 2011 study of guest ranches by Tourism BC found that there were 57 operating ranches in the province. Most of these were small operations with one to five employees and serving fewer than 1,000 clients per year (Tourism BC, 2011a). There are also large operations such as the Hills Health Guest Ranch located near 100 Mile House, which can accommodate hundreds of guests at one time. The ranch features a full on-site spa and two dining rooms, and hosts a multitude of special events each year. Two other examples of unique guest ranch operations are the Siwash Lake Ranch in south-central BC, a “high-end” exclusive resort featuring executive-chef prepared meals, and the Echo Valley Ranch and Spa in the BC interior, offering an alternative therapy spa and gold-panning excursions.

Hunting Outfitters

Hunting is a traditional recreational activity in BC, and it is also one of the original tourism products in the province (GOABC, n.d.). BC is fortunate to have a vast amount of wilderness available for hunting activities.  The exact size of the hunting market is difficult to quantify, but in 2003, a study found that 5,000 non-resident hunting licences were sold in BC, contributing $46 million to the provincial economy (CTC, 2012).

Some people choose self-guided hunting activities, but to hunt certain species, a guide outfitter must be hired. Guide outfitters are licensed by the BC Government to provide commercial hunting services for non-residents. This commercial hunt service directly employs more than 2,000 BC residents and generates approximately $116 million in economic activity annually (GOABC, n.d.). Many of these outfitters are small family operations  based in rural areas; they are a source valuable economic activity in areas with limited resources (GOABC, n.d.).

Spotlight On: Guide Outfitters Association of BC

Guide Outfitters Association of BC (GOABC) was established in 1966 to promote and preserve the interests of guide outfitters who take hunters out into wildlife habitat. GOABC is also the publisher of Mountain Hunter magazine. Its website outlines a code of conduct and standards for guide outfitters as well as a wildlife DNA collection program to help provide insight into animal populations. For more information, visit the Guide Outfitters Association of BC website : http://www.goabc.org

Cycling is a popular recreational activity in BC thanks to a variety of terrain, spectacular scenery, and favourable weather conditions, with approximately 44% of residents participating each year (Tourism BC, 2013). Cycling also attracts out-of-province visitors. One study from 2008 reported that out of 5.6 million Canadians who travelled to BC over a two-year period, almost one million (17%) had participated in a cycling activity (Tourism BC, 2009).

Spotlight On: Cycling Destinations

Several BC destinations have developed cycling as a key tourism product. For example, the Salt Spring Island group Island Pathways helped make the island more bike-friendly in recent years by installing bike racks, developing a map with bike routes, encouraging local transportation to accommodate bikes, and establishing local bike rentals and service. For more information, visit Salt Spring Island Cycling : http://www.saltspringtourism.com/cycling/

Another great example of cycling tourism is the Kettle Valley Railway in the Okanagan, built on an abandoned railbed. This 600-kilometre trail network includes a multitude of tunnels and trestles, and is most often travelled by cycling. Sections of the trail system are also now included in the Trans Canada Trail. For more information, visit the Kettle Valley Railway website : http://www.kettlevalleyrailway.ca/

Cycling can be generalized into two styles: road cycling and mountain biking.

Road cycling appeals to those who want to travel on paved roads on bikes designed for travelling long distances efficiently and effectively. Road cycling may refer to racing, both recreational and professional, or cycle touring, where cyclists travel by bike on single- or multi-day trips. Given the multitude of rolling hills, mountain passes, and stunning vistas, BC is regarded as a premier cycle touring destination (Destination BC, 2014b).

Mountain biking generally involves riding on unpaved routes and trails either specially designed for biking or for multipurpose use. BC’s reputation as a prime mountain biking destination has grown because of the unique array of trails available, ranging from the steep, challenging routes of Vancouver’s North Shore, to the high alpine cross-country routes found in the South Chilcotin Mountains (Tourism BC, 2011b).

Take a Closer Look: Mountain Bike Tourism

The report Tourism Essentials Guide: Mountain Bike Tourism is a valuable resource for operators or communities seeking to develop or promote mountain biking tourism in their area. It can be found at Tourism Essentials Guide: Mountain Bike Tourism [PDF] : http://www.destinationbc.ca/getattachment/Programs/Guides-Workshops-and-Webinars/Guides/Tourism-Business-Essentials-Guides/TBE-Guide-Mountain-Biking-May2011.pdf.aspx

Over the years, mountain biking has grown from being a fringe activity to a mainstay of the tourism economy. In fact, the growth potential of mountain biking is so highly regarded that the BC Government now considers it as one of the top growth areas in the outdoor adventure sector (Tourism BC, 2011b).

Indeed, numerous mountain winter resorts such as Whistler Blackcomb, Silverstar, and Kicking Horse have developed mountain biking trail infrastructure and lift-accessed biking to provide off-season activities. World-class mountain biking races such as the Test of Metal and the BC Bike Race bring thousands of riders through small communities for mountain biking. The economic impact of these events is significant. Over the course of a single four-month season in the Sea-to-Sky Corridor in 2006 (including the communities of North Vancouver, Squamish, and Whistler), the economic contribution of mountain biking to local economies was $10.3 million (Western Canada Mountain Bike Tourism Association, 2006).

Spotlight On: Test of Metal and GranFondo 

Two major bike races bring significant visitors to the Sea-to-Sky Corridor.  The Test of Metal, held in Squamish, has sold out every year since 1998, and brings upward of 1,000 mountain bikers into the area for a one-day event each June. For more information, visit The Test of Metal : http://testofmetal.com/. The GranFondo Whistler is a road biking race from Vancouver to Whistler that now attracts upward of 7,000 participants each year. For more information, visit  The GranFondo : http://granfondowhistler.com

Spotlight On: Western Canada Mountain Bike Tourism Association

Western Canada Mountain Bike Tourism Association (MBTA) is a not-for-profit organization working toward establishing BC, and Western Canada, as the world’s foremost mountain bike tourism destination. It has hosted a symposium on mountain bike tourism and works with Bike Parks BC to ensure terrain development. For more information, visit the Mountain Bike Tourism Association website : http://www.mbta.ca/

Camping and Hiking

In 2012, over 19.3 million people visited BC provincial parks, including 16.8 million day visitors, many of whom used the parks for hiking and exploration in addition to picnics, swimming, and other outdoor activities. Of these visitors, 2.3 million were overnight campers, generating $15.5 million in user fees, with an average guest satisfaction rating of 82% (BC Parks, 2012). As discussed in Chapter 3, there are also a number of private camping providers in the province.

Wildlife Viewing

Given the diversity and richness of our natural environment, it is not surprising that there is a thriving wildlife viewing industry in BC. This includes whale, bird, and bear watching as well as travelling to view the northern lights or alpine flowers (CTC, 2007). One study conducted by the Canadian Tourism Commission established that within BC, approximately 37% of tourists took part in wildlife viewing while visiting. Significantly, for 13% of visitors, the primary motivation for their travel to BC was wildlife viewing (CTC, 2007).

Spotlight On: Wilderness Tourism Association of British Columbia

The Wilderness Tourism Association of British Columbia (WTA) provides industry support and advocacy for those operators offering nature-based tourism products. For more information, visit the Wilderness Tourism Association of BC website : www.wilderness-tourism.bc.ca

Whale watching occurs along the coast of BC, with tours sometimes leaving from major urban centres, but more commonly from smaller communities such as Telegraph Cove on northern Vancouver Island. Tours are typically by boat, on vessels ranging from open, 10-passenger Zodiacs, to comfortable cabin cruisers with inside seating. The most commonly observed whale is the orca, one of the province’s most distinctive animals. Other whales like the humpback, minke, and Pacific grey are also frequently encountered. The province’s vast diversity of marine life is a key attraction of the tours; in addition to whale watching, a typical tour may encounter bald eagles, sea lions, porpoises, and a variety of sea birds (Destination BC, 2014,d).

Take a Closer Look: Mammal Viewing Guidelines

Marine mammal viewing in Canada has grown in popularity to the point where the federal government has established marine wildlife viewing guidelines. These establish parameters such as safe viewing distances and time limits. For more information, visit the marine wildlife viewing guidelines : http://www.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/fm-gp/species-especes/mammals-mammiferes/view-observer-eng.html

Bear viewing — whether for black bears, grizzly bears, or the rare kermode bear — is also popular. Black bears are common across all regions of BC. Grizzly bears are more likely to be found in remote and mountainous regions; they have an estimated population in the province of approximately 16,000. Kermode bears, also called spirit bears, are a subspecies of black bears with a genetic trait that produces white fur instead of black. They are found primarily in the Great Bear Rainforest of the Central Coast, and figure prominently in the spiritual traditions of BC’s Coastal First Nations. The spirit bear is also BC’s official animal (Destination BC, 2014a).

Tourism operators that offer bear viewing typically operate in remote regions of BC. They may utilize raised viewing areas or operate from a boat-based platform, and offer accommodation at night. The season is typically limited to May through October, with the highest chances of viewing success during the salmon spawning season in the fall.

Spotlight On: Commercial Bear Viewing Association of BC

Bear viewing is a complex activity with potential for physical risk to visitors and impacts to the bears. The Commercial Bear Viewing Association of BC (CBVA) sets standards for operators offering bear viewing. For more information, visit the Commercial Bear Viewing Association website : http://www.bearviewing.ca

Now that we’ve explored some of the key land-based tourism and recreational experiences in BC, let’s turn to the water.

Water-Based Recreation and Tourism

Water-based recreation and tourism in BC is extensive and varied. The coastline of more than 25,000 kilometres in length provides ideal opportunities for recreation and tourism (BC Adventure, n.d.).  Activities include scuba diving, boat tours, sport fishing, paddle sports, and more. Following is an overview of a few core water-based activities offered by BC tourism operators, as well as a brief description of their economic contributions and related industry organizations.

Scuba Diving

BC waters offer scuba divers a rich diversity of marine life such as giant Pacific octopuses, wolf eels, sixgill sharks, soft corals, and cloud sponges. As well, a variety of dive sites are available, including marine parks, protected natural areas, sunken naval vessels, artificial reefs, historic wrecks, and even a submerged fuselage of a Boeing 737 airliner (Dive Industry Association of BC, n.d.).

A 2004 study conducted by the Dive Industry Association of BC found that the dive industry in BC consisted of 116 operators offering services to tourists and residents alike. The many segments of the industry include manufacturers, distributers, dive charters, dive shops, and instructional centres. The study estimated that gross revenues from this industry at $15 million, although this number failed to account for other indirect spending such as trip-related accommodation and transportation. It is likely that the actual economic value of this subsector is actually significantly larger (Ivanova, 2004).

Spotlight On: Dive Industry Association of British Columbia

Established in 2002, the Dive Industry Association of British Columbia (DIABC)  is a not-for-profit that represents and supports the recreational diving industry in BC. Funded in part by matching donations from Destination BC, their diverse membership includes dive shops, tour operators, and individual dive guides. For more information, visit the Dive Industry Association of BC : http://diveindustrybc.com

Sport Fishing and Lodges

There is a long and rich history of sport fishing in BC. Anglers are drawn to the province’s tidal waters (for salmon and halibut) and to freshwater rivers and lakes (for trout, steelhead, and sturgeon). The annual rate of recreational participation is significant; a 2009 study estimated that there are nearly 600,000 anglers (either fresh or saltwater) in any given year in BC (Tourism BC, 2009). Furthermore, non-resident anglers contributed almost $6 million by way of licensing fees, and an additional $46 million in non-fishing expenditures to the economy of BC. The British Columbia Fishing Resorts and Outfitters Association (BCFROA) represents commercial freshwater resorts and outfitters and delivers advocacy, conservation, and marketing efforts on behalf of its members (BCFROA, n.d.).

Paddle Sports

River rafting, canoeing, sea kayaking, and standup paddle boarding (SUP) are common activities for both recreationists and tourists alike in BC.  Collectively, these sports fall under the paddle sports category, which encompasses any activity that takes place in small boats propelled by paddles (Education Scotland, n.d.).  Although all paddle sports are popular recreational activities, two of the more sizable and commercially productive paddle sports subsectors are river rafting and sea kayaking.

River rafting operators can be found on many rivers across BC. Product offerings may range from a three-hour adrenaline-fuelled tour on the famous Fraser River to a 14-day wilderness exploration down the UNESCO World Heritage Tatshenshini-Alsek Rivers in northern BC.  These trips consist primarily of three types of rafting: paddle rafting, motorized rafting, and float trips (Destination BC, n.d.).

Commercial rafting in BC is represented by the British Columbia River Outfitters Association (BCROA), which acts as a regulatory and marketing organization for river rafting in the province. Guides are required to be certified at one of three levels: guide, senior guide, or trip leader.  Each river in BC that is commonly rafted has an extensive set of safety requirements called “provisions” listed by the BCROA. These provisions set out the minimum level of guide required, acceptable water levels ranges, and type of equipment needed for each river excursion (BCROA, n.d.).

A 2005 study conducted by Tourism BC identified 59 operators offering river rafting trips in the province. With an average of 5.5 employees, these operations are typically small in comparison to other industry subsectors. Collectively, however, they provided services to 216,000 customers and contributed almost $15 million in gross revenues to the BC economy in 2005. The same study also indicated that up to 75% of participants had travelled to join in the activity, indicating that they can predominantly be classified as adventure tourists (Tourism BC, 2007a).

Sea kayaking in BC has grown into a sizable recreational and commercial industry in recent years. The province is highly regarded internationally for its long coastline punctuated by many inlets and fjords. Kayaking trips may be as short as an afternoon harbour tour, or as long as a seven-day wilderness exploration to the remote regions of Vancouver Island. Noteworthy areas for sea kayakers include Pacific Rim National Park on western Vancouver Island, Johnstone Strait on northern Vancouver Island, and Gwaii Haanas National Park in Haida Gwaii.

A 2005 report entitled British Columbia’s Sea Kayaking Sector identified more than 114 operators offering rentals, instruction, day tours, or multi-day tours.  These operators reported gross revenues of approximately $14 million in 2005 (Tourism BC, 2005a).

Spotlight On: The Sea Kayak Guides Alliance of BC

Commercial operators offering tours are represented by the Sea Kayak Guides Alliance of BC (SKGABC), which represents more than 600 individual and company members working in the commercial sea kayaking industry. It provides operating standards, guide certification, advocacy, and government liaison services for its members. For more information, visit the Sea Kayak Guides Alliance of BC website : www.skgabc.com

Trends and Issues

As shown throughout this chapter, recreation, outdoor recreation, and adventure tourism play predominant roles in the tourism and hospitality industry in BC. However, there are challenges that impact the viability of this sector, as well as barriers that limit the growth. These topics are discussed briefly here.

Access to wilderness areas for tourism operators is an ongoing challenge. Some zones across the province are set aside for recreation, such as provincial and national parks. However, when it comes to conducting commercial operations in these same places, gaining access often involves an extensive permitting process that may impose restrictions on the type of activity and the number of visitors allowed.

In addition, parks are generally limited to non-motorized activities, thus presenting barriers for tourism operators that seek to offer mechanized recreation. Operators using Crown land for commercial activities also require authorization from the provincial government; in some instances, priority may be given to resource extraction or development. The permitting process can be onerous and time consuming, which for small operators, may be a barrier to growth (Wilderness Tourism Association, 2005).

Environmental issues are discussed in detail in Chapter 10.

Environmental Impacts

Environmental impacts from climate change, deforestation, and resource extraction all have significant potential to affect this sector of the tourism economy. On a local scale, competition with resource extraction for wilderness areas is a vital issue; without reliable access to pristine wilderness, many operators are facing threats to their sustainability (Wilderness Tourism Association, 2005).  Indeed, conflicts with the oil and gas industry, forestry, and mining are constant management challenges for wilderness tourism operators. On a global scale, climate change threatens tourism in BC in many ways, including irregular and insufficient snowfall for winter operations, the pine beetle epidemic sweeping through the province’s forests, and climate-related stress impacting prime wildlife viewing of species such as whales and bears. Environmental issues are discussed in detail in Chapter 10: Environmental Stewardship.

Risk Management

Concerns over risk management and litigation are ongoing for any operator that offers activities with an element of risk. When lawsuits in adventure tourism occur, they are often extensively publicized by the media, creating a perception of risky, dangerous, and irresponsible adventure operators. This can negatively affect the sector through rising insurance rates, increasing governmental regulation, challenging certification requirements, and permitting difficulties when interfacing with land management agencies.

With the popularity of backcountry skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and other winter sports on the rise in BC, the number of participants accessing backcountry areas is increasing (Mitsui, 2013). This is becoming a concern for long-time backcountry enthusiasts as well as safety monitors such as Avalanche Canada. As winter and summer backcountry equipment becomes more readily accessible, people are able to equip themselves without having received advanced safety training.

The increase of backcountry users will continue to expose users to possible dangerous situations. The best scenario is to ensure users receive proper training and education before they venture into the backcountry areas.

Other elements of risk and liability are discussed further in Chapter 11.

Despite some of the challenges faced by recreation, outdoor recreation, and adventure tourism, the industry as a whole remains an exciting, dynamic, and growing sector of the BC tourism economy. Employment opportunities abound, and the potential for economic contribution to the province, protection of wilderness areas, and diversification of rural economies away from resource extraction are exciting prospects. BC is uniquely positioned to maintain positive growth in this area, contingent upon government support to address the barriers and challenges listed above. Students looking to develop professionally in this field should strive to gain both hands-on experience in a specialized activity, and a strong tourism focused education; this combination will offer the best chance to open doors to a long-term career in this exciting industry.

Now that we understand the importance of recreation to the tourism industry, especially in BC, let’s explore Chapter 6, which looks at entertainment, the other half of this industry classification.

• Adventure tourism: outdoor activities with an element of risk, usually somewhat physically challenging and undertaken in natural, undeveloped areas
• Association of Canadian Mountain Guides (ACMG):  Canada’s only internationally recognized guiding association, offering a range of certifications
• Avalanche Canada : a not-for-profit society that provides public avalanche forecasts and education for backcountry travellers venturing into avalanche terrain, dedicated to a vision of eliminating avalanche injuries and fatalities in Canada
• British Columbia Golf Marketing Alliance: a strategic alliance representing 58 regional and destination golf resorts in BC with the goal of having BC achieve recognition nationally and internationally as a leading golf destination
• British Columbia Guest Ranchers Association (BCGRA): an organization offering marketing opportunities and development support for BC’s guest ranch operators
• British Columbia Snowmobile Federation (BCSF): an organization offering snowmobile patrol services, lessons on operations, and advocating for the maintenance of riding areas in BC
• Canada West Ski Areas Association (CWSAA): founded in 1966 and headquartered in Kelowna, BC, CWSAA represents ski areas and industry suppliers and provides government and media relations as well as safety and risk management expertise to its membership
• Canadian Ski Guide Association (CSGA): founded in British Columbia, an organization that runs a training institute for professional guides, and a separate non-profit organization representing CSGA guide and operating members
• Commercial Bear Viewing Association of BC (CBVA):  promoters of best practices in sustainable viewing, training, and certification for guides, and advocating for land use practices.
• Destination mountain resorts:  large-scale mountain resorts where the draw is the resort itself; usually the resort offers all services needed in a tourism destination
• Dive Industry Association of BC: a marketing and advocacy organization protecting the interests of divers, dive shops, guides, dive instructors, and diving destinations in BC
• Guide Outfitters Association of BC (GOABC): established in 1966 to promote and preserve the interests of guide outfitters, who take hunters out into wildlife habitat; publishers of Mountain Hunter magazine
• Nature-based tourism: tourism activities where the motivator is immersion in the natural environment; the focus is often on wildlife and wilderness areas
• Off-road recreational vehicle (ORV): any vehicle designed to travel off of paved roads and on to trails and gravel roads, such as an ATV (all-terrain vehicle) or Jeep
• Outdoor recreation : recreational activities occurring outside; generally in undeveloped areas
• Outdoor Recreation Council of BC (ORC): a not-for-profit organization that promotes the benefits of outdoor recreation, represents the community to government and the general public, advocates and educates about responsible land use, provides a forum for exchanging information, and connects different outdoor recreation groups
• Recreation: activities undertaken for leisure and enjoyment
• Regional mountain resorts : small resorts where the focus is on outdoor recreation for the local communities; may also draw tourists
• Sea Kayak Guides Alliance of BC : representing more than 600 members in the commercial sea kayaking industry, providing operating standards, guide certification, advocacy, and government liaison services
• Western Canada Mountain Bike Tourism Association (MBTA): a not-for-profit organization working toward establishing BC, and Western Canada, as the world’s foremost mountain bike tourism destination
•  Wilderness Tourism Association (WTA): an organization that advocates for over 850 nature-based tourism operators in BC, placing a priority on protecting natural resources for continued enjoyment by visitors and residents alike
• Compare and contrast the terms recreation, outdoor recreation , and adventure tourism . How can we differentiate between each of these terms?
• Do you believe that ORV tourism operators should be considered nature-based tourism? Explain.
• What is the difference between a regional mountain resort and a destination mountain resort?
• Of the smaller subsectors of tourism economy discussed in this chapter, name three that are commonly found in small, rural communities. What is their significance to the local community?
• Name a well-known destination for mountain biking in BC. What is the attraction of that area?
• Why is backcountry skiing/snowboarding sometimes considered a risky activity? Explain. How can these risks be mitigated?
• List three industry organizations described in this chapter that represent outdoor tourism subsectors. What general services do they offer to those they represent?
• What unique advantages does BC offer for recreation, outdoor recreation, and adventure tourism?
• Review the section Trends and Issues. What suggestions would you give to the BC Government to support tourism in this subsector?

Case Study: The Wind Within

In late 2014, Destination British Columbia launched a video and set of corresponding marketing materials that sought to expand on the “Super, Natural” brand promise for the province.

Watch the video here:  “The Wild Within: British Columbia, Canada” : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dNFrZNjs2ng

On your own or as part of a team, consider the following:

• What natural elements are being promoted?
• What recreational activities are featured in the video?
• Which industry groups or associations are needed to support these activities? Name at least five.
• What are the advantages of promoting BC’s natural elements as a pillar of marketing campaigns?
• What are the disadvantages? How might these be mitigated?

BC Adventure. (n.d.)  BC Adventure Planner .  Retrieved from: http://www.bcadventure.com/adventure/planner/quick.htm

BC Fishing Resorts and Outfitters Association. (n.d.). About BCFROA . Retrieved from: http://bcfroa.ca/about-bcfroa

BC Guest Ranchers Association. (n.d.).  Requirements .  Retrieved from: www.bcguestranches.com

BC Parks. (2012). 2011/2012 Statistics Report . [PDF] Retrieved from http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/research/statistic_report/statistic_report_2012.pdf

British Columbia Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations. (2014). Off-Road Vehicle Act. Retrieved from: https://www.leg.bc.ca/40th2nd/1st_read/gov13-1.htm

British Columbia Ministry of Jobs, Tourism and Innovation. (2012). Gaining the edge: A five-year strategy for tourism in BC. [PDF]   Retrieved from: http://www.jtst.gov.bc.ca/tourismstrategy/documents/mjti_tourismstrategyreport_fnl.pdf

British Columbia River Outfitters Association. (n.d.). Provisions. [PDF] Retrieved from www.bcroa.com/sites/default/files/river_raft2002_revisedmanual.pdf

British Columbia Snowmobile Federation (n.d.). About BCSF . Retrieved from: http://bcsf.org

British Columbia Snowmobile Operators Association. (n.d.). About us – Snowmobile British Columbia. Retrieved from http://www.snowmobilebritishcolumbia.com/?page_id=450

Canadian Mountain Holidays. (n.d.). About us. Retrieved from: www.canadianmountainholidays.com/about-us.aspx

Canadian Tourism Commission. (2007). TAMS 2006-Canadian activity profile: Wildlife viewing while on trips . [PDF] Retrieved from: http://en-corporate.canada.travel/sites/default/files/pdf/Research/Product-knowledge/TAMS/Canadian%20Travellers%20Outdoor%20Activity/CDN_Wildlife_Viewing_en.pdf

Canadian Tourism Commission. (2012). Sport fishing and game hunting in Canada: An assessment on the potential international tourism opportunity. [PDF] Retrieved from: http://en-corporate.canada.travel/sites/default/files/pdf/Research/Product-knowledge/Product-research/07082013_the_hunting_landscape_rev1.pdf

Cross Country BC. (n.d.). About us. Retrieved from: http://www.crosscountrybc.ca/about

Destination BC. (2014a). Bear viewing. Retrieved from: www.hellobc.com/british-columbia/things-to-do/parks-wildlife/bear-watching.aspx

Destination BC. (2014b). Biking. Retrieved from: www.hellobc.com/british-columbia/things-to-do/outdoor-activities/biking.aspx

Destination BC. (2014c). Golfing. Retrieved from: http://www.hellobc.com/british-columbia/things-to-do/outdoor-activities/golf.aspx

Destination BC. (2014d). Whale watching. Retrieved from: www.hellobc.com/vancouver-island/things-to-do/parks-wildlife/whale-watching.aspx

Destination BC. (n.d.) River rafting British Columbia . Retrieved from http://www.hellobc.com/british-columbia/things-to-do/water-activities/river-rafting.aspx

Dive Industry Association of BC. (n.d.). About us. Retrieved from: www.diveindustrybc.com

Education Scotland. (n.d.). Paddlesports. Retrieved from: http://www.educationscotland.gov.uk/learningteachingandassessment/approaches/outdoorlearning/healthandsafety/guides/activityguidance/paddlesports.asp

Guide Outfitters Association of BC. (n.d.).  Economic contribution. Retrieved from: www.goabc.org/economic-contribution.aspx

HeliCat Canada. (n.d.). Our members.  Retrieved from: http://www.helicatcanada.com/our-members/heliskiing-members.html

Ivanova, I. (2004). Recreational diving in British Columbia survey report. [PDF] Retrieved from: http://www.destinationbc.ca/getattachment/Research/Research-by-Activity/Water-based/Recreational_Scuba_Diving_in_British_Columbia-sflb.pdf.aspx

Mitsui, E. (2013). Popularity of backcountry skiing worries some in industry. CBC News. Retrieved from http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/popularity-of-backcountry-skiing-worries-some-in-industry-1.1313223

Outdoor Recreation Council of BC. (2014). About Us. Retrieved from: http://orcbc.ca/about_mission.htm

Porteus, S. (March 6, 2013). The growing business of the backcountry. BC Business. Retrieved from: www.bcbusiness.ca/tourism-culture/the-growing-business-of-the-backcountry

Selkirk Wilderness Skiing (n.d.). About us. Retrieved from: www.selkirkwilderness.com/about_us/

Strategic Networks, Inc. (2009). Economic impact for golf in Canada. [PDF] Retrieved from:  http://www.pgaofcanada.com/Userfiles/SNG_NAGA_Impact%20GolfCanada_2009_KeyFindings_EN_Issued%20Aug17_09(1).pdf

Tourism BC. (2005a). British Columbia River Outfitters report . Retrieved from: http://www.destinationbc.ca/Research/Research-by-Activity/Water-based.aspx#.VIYlbb4irzI

Tourism BC. (2005b). Characteristics of commercial nature-based tourism industry in British Columbia [PDF] . Retrieved from:  http://www.destinationbc.ca/getattachment/Research/Research-by-Activity/Land-based/Economic_Impacts_of_Commercial_Nature-Based_Tourism_Report-sflb.pdf.aspx

Tourism BC. (2007a). British Columbia’s sea kayaking sector 2005. [PDF] Retrieved from: http://www.destinationbc.ca/getattachment/Research/Research-by-Activity/All-Research-by-Activity/British-Columbia-s-Sea-Kayakers-Report-(2005),-Dec/British_Columbia_s_Sea_Kayakers_Report_2005-sflb.pdf.aspx

Tourism BC. (2007b). Travel activities and motivations of Canadian residents: An overview. [PDF] Retrieved from: http://www.destinationbc.ca/getattachment/Research/Travel-Motivations-(TAMS)/Canadian-Travel-Motivations/Canadian_TAMS_Overview_Report.pdf.aspx

Tourism BC. (2009a). Fishing product overview. Retrieved from: http://www.destinationbc.ca/getattachment/Research/Research-by-Activity/Water-based/Fishing_Sector_Profile.pdf.aspx

Tourism BC. (2009b). Golf sector profile [PDF] . Retrieved from: http://www.destinationbc.ca/getattachment/Research/Research-by-Activity/Land-based/Golf_Sector_Profile.pdf.aspx

Tourism BC. (2009c). Wildlife viewing product overview . [PDF] Retrieved from: http://www.destinationbc.ca/getattachment/Research/Research-by-Activity/Land-based/Wildlife_Viewing_Sector_Profile.pdf.aspx

Tourism BC. (2011a). Guest ranchers business survey 2008/2009. [PDF] Retrieved from:  http://www.destinationbc.ca/getattachment/Research/Research-by-Activity/All-Research-by-Activity/Guest-Ranchers-Business-Survey-2008-2009,-January/GuestRanchersReport2008_2009.pdf.aspx

Tourism BC. (2011b). Mountain bike tourism guide. Retrieved from: http://www.destinationbc.ca/Research/Research-by-Activity/Land-based.aspx#.VIYqOr4irzI

Tourism BC. (2011c). The value of mountain resorts to the British Columbia economy. [PDF] Retrieved from: http://www.destinationbc.ca/getattachment/Research/Research-by-Activity/All-Research-by-Activity/Value-of-Mountain-Resorts-to-the-British-Columbia/Value_of_Mountain_Resort_Properties_Phase_One_June-2012.pdf.aspx

Tourism BC. (2013). 2009/2010 Outdoor recreation study . [PDF] Retrieved from: http://www.destinationbc.ca/getattachment/Research/Research-by-Activity/All-Research-by-Activity/Outdoor-Recreation-Study-2009-2010,-January-2013/Outdoor-Recreation-for-Distribution-14Jan13-FINAL-DRAFT-(2).pdf.aspx

Tribe, J. (2011).  The economics of recreation, leisure, and tourism. 4th Edition. Oxford, England: Elsevier.

United Nations World Tourism Organization. (2014). Global report on adventure tourism. Retrieved from: http://affiliatemembers.unwto.org/publication/global-report-adventure-tourism

Webster, D. (2013). Adventure tourism operators and snowmobiles: Managing interactions. [PDF] Retrieved from: https://dspace.royalroads.ca/docs/bitstream/handle/10170/660/webster_donald.pdf?sequence=1

Western Canada Mountain Bike Tourism Association. (2006). Sea-to-sky mountain biking economic impact study . [PDF] Retrieved from:  http://www.mbta.ca/assets/pdfs/S2S_E_I_Study.pdf

Wilderness Tourism Association. (2005). Characteristics of the commercial nature-based Tourism industry in British Columbia . [PDF] Retrieved from http://www.wilderness-tourism.bc.ca/docs/Commercial_Nature-Based%20Tourism.pdf

Attributions

Figure 5.1   Up and over by Ruth Hartnup is used under a CC-BY 2.0 license.

Figure 5.2   Row Your Boat by Matt Hosford is used under a CC-BY 2.0 license.

Figure 5.3   Blackcomb by Jeff Wilcox is used under a CC-BY 2.0 license.

Figure 5.4   Snowmobiling by Shazron is used under a CC-BY 2.0 license.

Figure 5.5   Cyclists by Jason Sager is used under a CC-BY-SA 2.0 license.

Figure 5.6   A bear in Bute Inlet, BC by John Critchley is used under a CC-BY 2.0 license.

Figure 5.7  Waiting in line by Ruth Hartnup is used under a CC-BY 2.0 license.

Figure 5.8   Rafting Adventure in Squamish, BC by Raj Taneja is used under a CC-BY-NC 2.0 license.

Figure 5.9   Absolutely Nothing is Allowed Here by Vicki & Chuck Rogers is used under a CC-BY-NC-SA 2.0 license.

Introduction to Tourism and Hospitality in BC Copyright © 2015 by Don Webster is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

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Tourism, Recreation and Adventure Leadership

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Description

In the tourism, recreation and adventure leadership program, we develop leaders, facilitators, and managers of outdoor adventure, recreation and tourism experiences who have internationally-recognized knowledge and skills. We'll teach you to be an effective decision-maker and to provide safe experiences in complex and dynamic environments.

The TRAL program at OSU-Cascades is a leader in outdoor adventure and tourism education. We are known for a quality, challenging, academically rigorous, and applicable four-year degree program that helps students gain competency in the outdoor adventure, recreation and tourism sectors. We attract high-quality students from local, regional, national, and international locations, based on our reputation as a leading program in the West. Our students embrace the challenge of sustainability in all that they do.

Program Information

Adventure Leadership Education (ALE) Option

Choose this option if you love to learn, study and work outside. Rivers, mountains and trails will be your classroom as you learn how to educate others about the outdoors and guide them through life-changing outdoor experiences. After graduating, you'll be prepared to work as a guide, interpreter or start your own outdoor-focused business.

Nature, Eco and Adventure Tourism (NEAT) Option

Learn how to use business and natural resources skills to operate tourism companies specializing in creating outdoor experiences for members of the public.

Degree Requirements and Guides

A total of 180 quarter credits are required to graduate, including 60 upper-division credits. Requirements include:

Baccalaureate core : 34-37 credits TRAL core requirements: 40 credits TRAL specialty option requirements: 65 credits Electives if needed to complete 180 total credits, including 60 upper-division credits

Degree Checklist and Guides

Tourism, recreation, & adventure leadership students at OSU-Cascades choose one of the following options. Completion of an approved TRAL option is required. Declaration of the option must be done in the first term of enrollment at OSU.

Adventure Leadership and Education (ALE) Nature, Eco and Adventure Tourism (NEAT) TRAL - ALE/NEAT Advising Guide (PDF)

Transfer Guides

OSU-Cascades COCC Transfer Guides

College of Forestry - Transfer Course Guides

TRAL Cascades Transfer Guide - Mt.Hood Community College

TRAL Cascades Transfer Guide - Linn-Benton Community College

Four-Year Sample Plan and Curriculum

A degree pathway is important to student success. To help you explore your major coursework and for you to begin the process of creating an individualized academic plan, we have created a sample four-year plan for the Tourism, Recreation, and Adventure Leadership major. These plans also include academic and co-curricular opportunities ideas for each academic year.

This is a sample plan intended for informational purposes only. Students will work with their OSU academic advisor to create degree plan that works best for each student based around unique interests, goals and transfer work.

TRAL- Adventure Leadership Education Option Sample Curriculum TRAL- Nature, Eco and Adventure Tourism Option Sample Curriculum

Using the following course forecast information students will plan ahead and work with their advisor to create and update academic plans.

OSU Course Catalog

OSU Class Search

TRAL Courses by Term

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the program, students will meet the following learning outcomes:

• Explain the importance of tourism and recreation in natural settings for achieving societal goals, such as community development, human health and quality of life, and sustainable use of natural resources.
• Identify, analyze, and apply the best available information on science, management practices, and public preferences to address contemporary tourism, recreation, and outdoor leadership opportunities and issues.
• Make tourism, recreation, and outdoor leadership decisions within applicable laws, policies, and regulations and across cultural and national contexts.
• Communicate effectively with a variety of audiences in appropriate formats.
• Work effectively and professionally in groups, both as leaders and followers.
• Understand principles and methods for successful supervision of employees and/or volunteers.

Tourism, Recreation and Adventure Leadership Minor (30 credits)

Students may elect to earn the Tourism, Recreation, and Adventure Leadership minor. This minor provides basic knowledge about recreation adventure tourism planning and adventure leadership.

Tourism, Recreation and Adventure Leadership Minor Checklist  (PDF)

Explore career options and career planning resources .

Faculty and Staff Directory

Tourism, Recreation and Adventure Leadership Faculty and Staff Directory

Our extended classroom is Bend, Oregon

Bend is the perfect place to study tourism, recreation and adventure leadership. Many TRAL courses include field components, from half-day field trips to multi-week outings. Complement your program with participation in Cascades Adventures, our student-led outdoor trips program. You are minutes from:

• Downhill skiing and snowboarding at Mt. Bachelor
• Backcountry and cross-country skiing at an extensive sno-park system
• Rock climbing at world famous Smith Rock State Park
• Mountain biking and road biking that is rated as some of the best in the nation
• Fly-fishing on some of the most pristine rivers in the lower 48
• Kayaking and white-water rafting on world class rivers

Student Spotlight

Zipline intern at Mt. Bachelor

TRAL student Dominic Vezzani has worked as a terrain park supervisor at Mt. Bachelor for the past six years. For his internship, he wanted to gain experience as a tour guide – and only had to look across the mountain to the zipline to find it. Launching from an elevation of 7,800 feet and dropping nearly 1,400 vertical feet — Mt. Bachelor's zipline is the Northwest's steepest and fastest. Groups of 12 are guided down three platforms in this multi-step thrill ride. Dom scheduled the other tour guides, communicated with ticket sales, and did a lot of problem-solving. "My self-confidence grew as a manager this summer," he said. "It's easier to have the hard conversations now."

Go International

Costa Rica: An immersion in culture and nature

In this hybrid course, you'll learn about tropical ecology and conservation, develop backcountry adventure skills and experience the culture of Costa Rica while backpacking between working family farms, traveling by raft down the Rio Savegre, and exploring the national parks of the southern coast. The online course in fall term will introduce you to the history of Costa Rica, tropical ecology, natural resources, and adventure tourism. Then it's off to Costa Rica for ten days in December. Learn more .

Sample Courses

• Sustainable Communities
• Nature, Eco, and Adventure Tourism
• Endangered Species
• Design Management of Outdoor Experience
• History of Outdoor Adventure
• Risk Management
• Outdoor Living Skills and Lab
• Expedition I & II
• Intermediate Rock Climbing
• Intro to Whitewater Kayaking
• Manage Individual & Team Performance

Where do our grads work?

• Bend Rock Gym
• Brasada Ranch Resort
• Bureau of Land Management
• Cascades Camp & Conference Center
• Outward Bound
• Seventh Mountain Resort
• Student Conservation Association
• Tetherow Resort
• The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto
• Travel Oregon
• Tumalo Creek and Kayak
• US Forest Service
• Ventana Research
• Wanderlust Tours

Request More Info

We're here to help! Future students can connect with an OSU-Cascades admissions advisor for admission and program questions.

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Moscow parks – leisure, nature and historical

Moscow is the most green megapolis in the world. There are over a hundred parks and green spaces like gardens, squares and boulevards. You will definitely bump into a few of them wherever you go. Whether you are interested in memorial, historic parks, parks of wildlife or you just want to have a calm break from the speedy city life – city parks have something special for everyone.

Moscow leisure parks

The leisure Moscow parks are undoubtedly the most popular and famous with the locals and travelers. Today such parks provide a great number of exciting entertainments for Muscovites and city guests, adults and children.

The Gorky Park

Gorky Park opened in 1928 and was the first holiday park in the Soviet Union with playgrounds, a sports stadium, exhibition halls and attractions for kids. Today it has a fresh, vibrant appearance. The park features bike rental stations, a comfortable business area with Wi-Fi, an outdoor movie theatre and a greenhouse where you can buy fresh greens such as basil and lettuce. To contemplate the sky and the stars, go to the observatory and look through the telescope while listening to fascinating stories from astronomers. Enjoy many sports in the park: volleyball, handball, football or a peaceful jog around the beautiful surroundings.

Zaryadye Park

Opened in September 2017, Zaryadye is the youngest on our list. Located just a few minutes away from Red Square, it includes various activities like the floating bridge with its thin V-form extension, an ice cave, also concert hall and an amphitheater. The entire territory of the park was divided into four zones of Russia: forest, steppe, tundra, and the floodplains.

Neskuchny Sad

By walking along the Moskva River’s bank from the Gorky Park towards Vorobievy Gory (Sparrow Hills) you’ll reach Neskuchny Sad («Not Boring» garden), a wonderful place in the Moscow center, one of Moscow’s oldest parks, charming slice of wildlife. The park mostly consists of pristine forest, dotted with old summer pavilions, ponds and quaint little stone bridges. There are a lot of opportunities for different activities lots of children playground, a ping-pong and chess clubs, football fields and tennis courts, horse riding, tree climbing and having rest in one of the nice cafes.

Museon Park

Hermitage Garden

Hermitage Garden has always been known as an amusement, entertainment center with theatres, shows, cafes, summer pavilions, pergolas since 1830. Shalyapin, Sobinov, Nezhdanova – great Russian opera singers starred on the garden stage. Famous Russian composer Rakhmaninov conducted the orchestra. Sara Bernar, Maria Yermolova, outstanding actresses, played in the open air performances. Tolstoy and Lenin had a stroll in the garden. So lots of celebrities from different epoques liked it a lot and spent their time in Hermitage Garden. You can find here three theatres in the garden: Hermitage, Sphere and New Opera. During winter an ice rink works here and in summer a musical stage is assembled to host jazz and brass band festivals.

In Sokolniki Park visitors can play billiard, chess or draughts, table tennis, as well as go cycling, roller blading and swimming in the summer and ice skating or skiing in winter. Each season is highlighted by special memorable and bright events, for example, Summer Jazz Festival or Baby Fest (for future mums), open air beach disco parties, Ice Cream Day, International Clown Festival and many other shows and exhibitions. The park has an observatory, kids center and a co-working zone with free Wi-Fi which is really nice for spending high quality work time there.

Moscow nature parks

The nature parks are national reserves with the amazing forestry and incredible variety of animals and plants there. The breath of wildlife and the chance to be closer to the virgin nature excites both children and grownups. Hundreds of different species of animals can be found in Moscow nature parks. The richest woodlands with old and even ancient trees, like a 200 years pine-tree in the Elk Island National Nature Park, are the point of passionate interest for visitors.

Aptekarsky Ogorod

Aptekarsky Ogorod (Apothecary Garden)

Aptekarsky Ogorod (Apothecary Garden) is one of the oldest gardens in Moscow. It was founded in the XVIII century by Peter the First (great Russian emperor). A larch that he planted himself still grows in the garden, so it’s more than 250 years old. At the time of its foundation, it was a garden with herbs and medicinal plants and was used as an educational center for doctors. Today there are the orangery with its tropical palms, the carp pond, and the immense trees that dot the landscape and turn wonderful golden shades in the autumn. Several restaurants and cafes work here making it a very nice spot for relaxation no matter what season it is. You can book a special tour or join the guided excursion group.

Losiny Ostrov

Losiny Ostrov (Elk Island Park)

Losiny Ostrov (Elk Island Park) is located at the north of Moscow. It covers 22 km from the west to the east and 10 km from the north to the south and it’s one of the most beautiful national parks in Moscow. Two rivers, Yausa and Pechorka begin here. You can find lots of fields, ponds, meadows, streams in the park as well as elks. Here you can enjoy guided tours, available in English. You can choose a guided tour about flora and fauna of the area, you’ll learn why elks are there, which animals are their neighbors. Or enjoy another excursion, which is totally devoted to historical past of ancient tribes once lived there, you’ll know about old Russian mythology, rituals and traditions.

Serebyany Bor

Serebyany Bor (Silver Forest)

Serebyany Bor (Silver Forest) is a famous pine forest in the west of Moscow. The park has 230 forms of plant life, and is also home to watersports complex, providing a lot of activities for visitors. The layout of Serebryany Bor is unusual, as it is located on an artificial island between a meander in the Moscow River and a channel. There is an artificial lake, the Deep Gulf and picturesque Bezdonnoe (Bottomless) Lake in the depths of the forest. Serebryany Bor’s beaches are the cleanest in the city and very popular among Muscovites. On weekends it is difficult to find a free spot here, especially because a whole range of services are offered to visitors, from simple deckchairs to catamaran and yacht rides. Driving is prohibited on the territory of the island so be ready to use trolleybus to reach the entrance.

Botanichesky Sad

Greenhouse of Botanical Garden

Main Botanical Garden of The Russian Academy of Sciences is the largest and most famous is Moscow. The garden is a real museum of nature with a very rich (more than 18000 types) collection of plants. The park was founded in 1945 at the place of the 17th century Apothecaries’ Gardens. The garden’s collection is turned into botanical expositions, made with use of modern receptions of landscape architecture. Here you can see a tree nursery, a shadow garden, hothouse complex, collection of flowers, a rosary, exposition of coastal plants, garden of continuous blossoming, Japanese garden and expositions of cultural plants and natural flora plants. The biggest part of Garden is the Tree nursery occupying the space of 75 hectares. About 2 thousand wood plants grow here. Another big exposition of the Garden is nature Flora, divided into six botanic-geographical collections: European part of Russia, Caucuses, Central Asia, Siberia and Far East. Pride of the Main Botanical Garden is the collection of tropical, coastal and water plants, which is considered as the best in Europe. The Japanese garden, a great model of Japanese landscape gardening art has a 13-level stone pagoda of the 18th century, stone Japanese lamps, ponds, falls and streams, tea lodges and more than 100 species of the most character Japan plants. It is especially decorative in spring, during Oriental cherry blossoming and in fall, when foliage blazes in crimson colors.

Moscow historic parks

Historic nature parks and estates once were the mansions of the Moscow aristocracy. At that far times the estates were outside the Moscow city limits, but after the city expansion and urbanization, they became easily accessible.

Kolomenskoye

Kolomenskoye Museum and Park

The chief attraction of the park is undoubtedly the stone Church of the Ascension of the Lord. It was constructed in 1532 by order of Tsar Vasily III to commemorate the birth of his son and heir, Ivan the Terrible. But there is a lot more to see in the park: the pretty Church of the Icon of Our Lady of Kazan – with its bright azure domes and plenty of gold. Further into the park there is a charming Church of the Beheading of St John the Baptist, built by Ivan the Terrible to mark his coronation.

Kuskovo Park

Kuskovo Park is one of the oldest country estates in Moscow. It was given to General Sheremetev by Peter the Great in 1715, but was left to fall into neglect before being plundered by Napoleon’s troops in 1812. Nowadays the estate has been restored to its former glory and is a good example of Russian 18th Century imperial architecture. The palace is a fine and rare example of wooden neoclassicism. It was completed in 1775, and the rich interiors remain unchanged since 1779. It includes a room hung with exclusive exquisite Flemish tapestries, an abundance of silk wallpaper and an impressive collection of 18th century European and Russian paintings. The palace looks onto the lake, which is surrounded by smaller pavilions: pretty Italian, Dutch and Swiss Cottages, Blank’s Hermitage and the old Orangery, where the State Ceramics Museum is located now, an extensive and absorbing collection of porcelain from the 18th century to the present day. On the other side of the lake is a large wood popular with local cyclists and joggers.

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19 Unique And Fabulous Experiences In Moscow

• Destinations

Thinking of visiting Russia? When visiting such a famous city, one must, of course, visit the iconic landmarks first. Moscow has plenty of those, most of them in the center of the city, which is very well-planned for tourists. Once you’ve seen the sights that are on most travelers’ lists, it’s time to branch out and visit some of the lesser-known sites, and there are some fascinating places to see and things to do.

I know this list is long, but I just couldn’t help myself. You probably won’t have the time to see them all. But that’s okay. Just scroll through the list and choose what sounds the most interesting to you. Where possible, make sure to book in advance, as things can get crowded, especially during high season.

1. The Red Square, Kremlin, And Surroundings

Red Square (Krasnya Ploshad) is the heart and soul of Russia, and where much of the country’s history has unfolded. This is the most famous landmark in Moscow and indeed the whole country, it’s an absolute must-do! The square is always full of people and has a rather festive atmosphere!

Saint Basil’s Cathedral

This is the famous church with the rainbow-colored, onion-domed roof. The cathedral was commissioned in the 1500s by Ivan the Terrible and according to legend, the Tsar thought it was so beautiful, that he ordered that the architect’s eyes be cut out afterward, so he could never build anything more beautiful! He wasn’t called Ivan the Terrible for no reason!

Lenin’s Mausoleum

The “love-it-or-hate-it” of tourist attractions in Russia. A glass sarcophagus containing the embalmed body of Russian revolutionary, Vladimir Lenin. It may seem a bit bizarre to display the mummy of a person, but it has been there for almost half a century and the 2.5 million visitors who come each year, clearly feel the queuing and thorough body search are worth it, to be in Lenin’s presence.

Pro Tip: no photos and no loud talking are allowed inside the Mausoleum.

Eternal Flame

There is an Eternal Flame in honor of an unknown soldier on the left side of Red Square. The hourly changing of the guards is worth seeing.

The Kremlin is the official residence of the Russian president. You can see it from the outside, or you can take an excursion to one of the museums located inside. This is the biggest active fortress in Europe, and holds a week’s worth of attractions! Once behind the 7,332-feet of walls, there are five squares, four cathedrals, 20 towers, various museums, and the world’s largest bell and cannon to see. Worth a special mention is the Armory Chamber that houses a collection of the famous Faberge Eggs.

Pro Tip: You can only go inside the Kremlin if you are part of a tourist group.

2. Bolshoi Theatre

Bolshoi Theatre translates to “The Big Theatre” in Russian, and the building is home to both the Bolshoi Ballet and Bolshoi Opera — among the oldest and most famous ballet and opera companies in the world.

Pro Tip: It’s hard to get an inexpensive ticket, so if you’re reading well in advance of going to Moscow then try buying tickets on the official website . Last-minute tickets cost around $250 per person. If this is out of your budget, about an hour before a performance, you can try buying a ticket at the entrance from a reseller. Most can speak enough English to negotiate the price.

Tour the Bolshoi Theatre: You can take a group guided tour of the Bolshoi Theatre which focuses on the history and architecture of the theatre and behind the scenes. There’s an English language tour that lasts 2 hours and costs around $300 for a group of up to six.

3. Luxury Shopping At GUM And TSUM

Russia’s main department store, GUM, has a stunning interior that is home to over 100 high-end boutiques, selling a variety of brands: from luxurious Dior to the more affordable Zara. Even if shopping is not on your Moscow to-do list GUM is still worth a visit; the glass-roofed arcade faces Red Square and offers a variety of classy eateries. TSUM, one of the biggest luxury malls in town, is right behind the Bolshoi and GUM. It’s an imposing building with lots of history, and worth a visit just for its design and its glass roof.

4. Christ The Savior Cathedral

This is one of Russia’s most visited cathedrals and is a newer addition to the gorgeous array of Muscovite cathedrals, but don’t let its young age fool you. After perestroika, in the early 90s, the revived Russian Orthodox Church was given permission to build a cathedral on this site. It did the location honors and built the largest temple of the Christian Orthodox Church. The façade is as grand as you’d expect, but it’s the inside that will mesmerize you, with its domes, gold, gorgeous paintings, and decor!

The cathedral is located just a few hundred feet away from the Kremlin and was the site of the infamous Pussy Riot protest against Putin back in 2012.

Pro Tip: Bring a shawl to cover your hair as is the local custom.

5. Gorky Park

Moscow’s premier green space, Gorky Park (Park Gor’kogo) is the city’s biggest and most famous park. There is entertainment on offer here for every taste, from outdoor dancing sessions to yoga classes, volleyball, ping-pong, rollerblading, and bike and boat rental in summer. In winter, half the park turns into a huge ice skating rink. Gorky Park is also home to an open-air movie theater and the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art. There is also Muzeon Art Park, a dynamic contemporary space with a unique collection of 700 sculptures. It is located right in front of Gorky Park.

6. Sparrow Hills Park

If you take a walk from Gorky Park, along the Moscow River embankment, you’ll end up in the city’s other legendary park, Sparrow Hills. Although the park doesn’t offer as many activities as its hip neighbor, it has a great panoramic view of the city

Pro Tip: You can take a free walking tour to all of the above attractions with an English-speaking guide.

7. River Cruising

One of the best ways to experience Moscow, and see all the famous landmarks, but from a different angle, is from the Moscow River. Take a river cruise. Avoid the tourist crowds. There are little nameless old boats that do the cruise, but if you are looking for a more luxurious experience take the Radisson Blu cruise and enjoy the sights with some good food and a glass of wine.

8. Metro Hopping

Inaugurated in the 1930s, the Moscow Metro system is one of the oldest and most beautiful in the world. Started in Stalinist times, each station is a work of art in its own right. I’d recommend touring the stations between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. This way, you’ll be able to properly see it without the crowds. Ideally, I’d recommend taking a tour with a knowledgeable guide with GuruWalk, who will tell you stories of forgotten stations and how the history of the country is interconnected with the metro development. If going by yourself, then I definitely recommend checking out: Mayakovskaya, Ploschad Revolutsii, Kievskaya, Kropotkinskaya, Kurskaya, and Novoslobodskaya stations.

Visit the free Moscow Metro Museum: For real train enthusiasts, located in the southern vestibule of Sportivnaya station is a small free museum. Here you can take a peek into the driver’s cabin, see a collection of metro tokens from different cities, and see different models of a turnstile, traffic lights, escalator, and more.

9. Moscow State University View

In his effort to create a grander Moscow, Stalin had seven skyscrapers built in different parts of town; they’re called the Seven Sisters. The largest of these buildings and the one with the best view is the main building of the Moscow State University. Although this is a little outside the city center, the view is more than worth it.

10. Izmailovsky Market

Mostly known for the city’s largest flea market, the district of Izmaylovo is home to a maze of shops where you can get just about anything, from artisan crafts to traditional fur hats, handcrafted jewelry, fascinating Soviet memorabilia, and antiquities. It’s also one of Moscow’s largest green spaces. There are often no price tags, so be prepared to haggle a bit. Head to one of the market cafes for a warming mulled wine before continuing your shopping spree.

The History of Vodka Museum is found here, and the museum’s restaurant is the perfect place to sample various brands of the national drink.

Once you’ve covered the more touristy spots, Moscow still has plenty to offer, and the places below will also be full of locals! So for some local vibes, I would strongly recommend the spots below!

11. Moscow City

With a completely different vibe, Moscow City (also referred to as Moscow International Business Center) is like a mini Dubai, with lots of impressive tall glass buildings. Here is where you’ll find the best rooftops in towns, like Ruski Restaurant, the highest restaurant both in Moscow City and in Europe. Moscow City is great for crowd-free shopping and the best panoramic views of the city.

12. Tretyakov Gallery

Tretyakov Gallery started as the private collection of the Tretyakov brothers, who were 19th-century philanthropists. They gave their private collection to the government after their deaths. If there is just one museum you visit in Moscow, I recommend this one!

13. Tsaritsyno Museum-Reserve

Tsaritsyno was a residence of Catherine the Great more than two centuries ago. It became derelict during the Soviet era but has now been fully renovated. With its opulently decorated buildings, gardens, meadows, and forests, Tsaritsyno Park is the perfect place for a green respite in Moscow.

14. Kolomenskoye

A 10-minute metro ride from the city center is Kolomenskoe Museum-Reserve, where you can get an idea of what Russia looked like 200 years ago. You’ll find ancient churches (one dating back to the 16th century), the oldest garden in Moscow, and the wonderful fairytale wooden palace of Tsar Alexey Mikhailovich, father of Peter the Great.

15. Ostankino TV Tower

Built in 1967, Ostankino TV Tower was the tallest free-standing construction in the world at the time, it’s still the 8th tallest building in the world and the highest in Europe. It’s also the best observation deck, with a glass floor and 360-degree views. The speedy elevators take you 1,105 feet in next to no time.

Pro Tip: You need to book in advance; entrance is based on specific ticket times and the capacity is limited and only a certain number of tourists are allowed per day. Don’t forget your passport, you’ll need it to get through security.

16. Zaryadye Park

Zaryadye is a newly opened, landscaped urban park so new you won’t find it in a lot of tour guides. The park is near Red Square and is divided into four climatic zones: forest, steppe, tundra, and floodplains, depicting the variety of climatic zones in Russia.

These last three suggestions are a little quirky, but all are really worth checking out.

17. Museum Of Soviet Arcade Games

Release your inner child playing on 66 arcade machines from the Soviet era! What a great way to spend a couple of hours when tired of visiting museums and palaces. The staff speaks excellent English and are happy to explain how the games work.

18. Moscow Rooftop Tour

Take a 1-hour private Moscow rooftop tour with an experienced roofer. I can just about guarantee none of your friends will be able to say they’ve done it! For your comfort, I recommend wearing comfortable shoes. Take your camera, there are some amazing photo opportunities out there!

19. Sanduny Banya

This classical Russian bathhouse opened its doors in 1808 and is famous for combining traditional Russian banya services with luxurious interiors and service. If you enjoy spas and saunas, then you should experience a Russian bathhouse at least once in your life! Go with an open mind and hire a specialist to steam you as it’s meant to be done — by being beaten repeatedly with a besom (a leafy branch)! This is said to improve circulation, but is best done by a professional!

So there you have my list of things to do in Moscow. I could have gone on and on and on, but I didn’t want to try your patience! There are so many things to do in this vibrant city that you’ll definitely need to allocate several days for exploring.

Here are some other reasons to visit Moscow and Russia:

• 7 Reasons To Put Moscow On Your Travel Bucket List
• Russia 30 Years (And 30 Pounds) Ago
• Massive Mysterious Craters Appearing Again In Siberia

Born and raised in Sydney, Australia, before moving to Africa at the age of 21, Sarah Kingdom is a mountain climber and guide, traveler, yoga teacher, trail runner, and mother of two. When she is not climbing or traveling she lives on a cattle ranch in central Zambia. She guides and runs trips regularly in India, Nepal, Tibet, Russia, and Ethiopia, taking climbers up Tanzania’s Mount Kilimanjaro numerous times a year.

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A view of the Komsomolskaya metro station in Moscow.

Discover the Best of Moscow

Ten can't-miss activities for your next trip to Moscow.

National Park

To escape the crowds and clamor of the city, you don't have to go any farther than the Losiny Ostrov (Elk Island), one of Russia's first national parks created in 1983. Stroll through its network of numerous paved and unpaved pathways surrounded by grasslands, coniferous and broad-leaved trees and observe more than 200 animal species including elks roaming in their natural habitat.

Archeological Site

Descend to the Archeological Museum , a seven meter-deep underground pavilion below the central Tverskaya Street that showcases an eclectic collection of artifacts harvested from excavations of Voskresensky Bridge. The exposition spans the Stone and Bronze ages as well as more recent items including pottery and coins from the 1700s. Don't miss the 3D virtual reality binoculars to see how that particular place looked back in history.

UNESCO Site

Kolomenskoe Museum-Reserve , located a 10-minute metro ride from the city center, will teleport you to medieval Moscow. Explore its scenic 390-hectares seeded with churches dating back to the 16th century, and the spectacular wooden palace of Tsar Alexis I that is straight out of a fairytale. Equally impressive is the Novodevichy Convent - the fortress founded in 1524 that contains four cathedrals, a mesmerizing icon collection and a venerable cemetery.

Cultural Site

Put on your fanciest outfit and immerse yourself in the cultural scene of Moscow by booking a ticket to an opera or ballet performance at Russia Bolshoi Theatre . This quintessential institution of the Russian musical tradition not only offers traditional world-class productions, but also strives to defy its classical music heritage by constantly offering new experimental stagings.

Off the Beaten Path

Venture down 65 meters beneath Taganka Square for a guided underground tour of Bunker 42 which offers a fascinating deep-dive into Soviet history. Constructed in 1951 under the command of Joseph Stalin, the bunker was supposed to shelter top Kremlin officials during nuclear attack. It currently houses the Cold War Museum offering invaluable insights into the historical developments of that era.

Most Iconic Place

The candy-colored, swirling-patterned domes of St. Basil's Cathedral are an undeniable icon of Moscow. Commissioned by infamous Ivan the Terrible, the cathedral was built in the 16th century to commemorate the victory over The Khanate of Kazan. The complex consists of ten separate churches festooned with centuries-old historic frescoes, oil paintings and Russian icons.

Historic Site

The spacious cobble-stoned Red Square is the heart of the capital and a symbol of Russia's historically rich and captivating past. Perpetually brimming with people, the place is filled with frantic energy and has plenty to offer. Plan to spend a full day scouting its numerous sights including the extensive grounds of Kremlin, astounding St. Basil's Cathedral, eerie Lenin's Mausoleum and luxurious national department store GUM built in 1893.

Local Quirk

Nothing unites Russians like a collective visit to one of the banyas (bath houses). Indulge in this invigorating quintessential Russian experience by visiting the iconic Sandunovskiye Baths, which will impress with its 19th century ornate halls, or the Rzhevskie baths for a down-to-earth therapeutic sequence starting with steaming, then plunging into cold pools, followed by a whipping with birch twigs, finishing with a massage and tea afterwards.

• Nat Geo Expeditions

Neighborhood to Explore

To see the hip side of Moscow head to Winzavod, a complex of former wine-bottling companies which were converted into a cluster of cool exhibit and studio spaces used by local artists. It is a great place to peruse contemporary art galleries and creative showrooms, or kick back in one of the trendy cafes and book stores.

Museums Not To Be Missed

Take a walk through Russia's art history at Tretyakov Gallery which displays a collection of 1,300 works spanning early religious relics to modern avant-garde masterpieces. The Garage Centre of Contemporary Art designed by eco-friendly architect Shigeru Ban, or the Multimedia Art Museum, which is devoted entirely to photography, are perfect places to tap into the city's modern art scene. A hangout spot for locals and tourists alike, the massive VDNKh (All-Russian Exhibition Centre) is a fun open-air museum park of Soviet-era architecture paired with an entertainment complex.

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I Bought This $26 Amazon Crossbody Bag for a Week-long Ireland Trip — and I Can’t Stop Wearing It

It's three bags in one and fits way more than you'd think.

If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Travel + Leisure / Madison Woiten

As a frequent flier and travel writer who travels at least a dozen times a year, I’ve come to learn that a crossbody bag should be part of everyone’s travel uniform. Simple but effective, they can help make the chaos of traveling just a little more organized by holding all of your essentials in one easy-to-reach place. I’m constantly on the lookout for a bag that can withstand the wear and tear of traveling long distances while also being chic enough to wear out when I finally reach my destination — and I've struggled to balance fashion and function over the years — until I came across the Uto 3-in-1 Crossbody Bag at Amazon.

I recently tested it out on a week-long road trip through southern Ireland and was seriously impressed with its versatile and roomy features, and not to mention its sleek silhouette. During my search, I was looking for a bag that was spacious enough to fit all of my essentials while flying and on the road; durable to endure the capricious Irish weather; and stylish to be worn around the cities and harbor towns. The Uto crossbody bag , thankfully, satisfied all three of these important criteria. I wore it all day, every day, and was so pleasantly surprised with its performance that I’ve officially crowned it my go-to travel purse. Finally, the search is over.

Uto 3-in-1 Crossbody Bag

Made with supple synthetic-washed leather, the bag is scratch- and water-resistant, and was rugged enough to endure the unpredictable bursts of violent Irish weather. I wore it on wind- and rain-torn cliffs, and it not only withstood the battering, but protected all of my valuables from the elements as well. It comes with a detachable and adjustable nylon strap that’s thick and wide enough to sit comfortably on the body without digging into your shoulder or slipping off (or in my case, being whipped off my person by the wind).

Asia Palomba

Best of all, its hybrid, crossbody design has a removable main purse with two separated, zippered compartments containing three credit card slots and one inner zip pocket, as well as a removable mini purse and a removable coin pouch on the bag’s strap — a compartment lover’s dream. This unique versatility means that the bag can be worn as a crossbody, a clutch, a shoulder purse, or even a belt bag , so you can easily find what works best for you when traveling.

But its spaciousness is where it really shines. Despite the bag’s compact size, which never felt too bulky on my person, it's stocked with ample storage features. I found that I was easily able to fit all of my travel essentials between the bag’s four compartments — no squishing necessary. Within one of the main purses, I packed a portable charger and a phone cable, and in the other, I stored my three passports and my wallet, containing both American and European currency, as well as my cell phone. 

In the mini, removable purse I stored multiple lip balms, hand sanitizers, and portable creams to keep my skin hydrated while traveling. During my flights, I used the removable mini coin purse, which can be attached chest-high on the bag’s strap, to hold loose change and my Apple AirPods. When in Ireland and on the road, I, instead, used it to store several of my camera batteries so that they were always within easy reach. 

What’s more, I was able to pack all of these essentials with room to spare , which came in handy when I began collecting smaller souvenirs and entrance tickets to museums and monuments throughout my trip.

For extra style points, the entire ensemble is accented with a delicate, removable gold or silver chain, depending on the color bag that you choose. I have the Uto 3-in-1 Crossbody Bag in black with gold accents, but it comes in 14 other colors that range from playful pink and sage green to neutral light gray and maple brown. Shoppers also have their choice of three additional variations: two-toned , a patterned strap , and a quilted body , which are sure to satisfy any preference and compliment any outfit. 

Since returning from my trip, I’ve already worn the crossbody bag while on walks or running errands, especially on windy and rainy days. Its ample storage space is a serious boon for a serial overpacker such as myself, and is sure to help me focus on traveling light, especially on carry-on only trips. I’ve already slotted the crossbody as my go-to purse for my upcoming trips home to Rome, the Azores Islands, and Morocco, and I look forward to seeing how it’ll hold up over the years. Plus, it comes with its own dust bag with the brand’s name stamped across it, so you can keep it safely stored when not in use.

Chic, durable, spacious, and versatile, the Uto 3-in-1 Crossbody Bag is the ideal purse for frequent travelers. It’ll hold all of your essentials comfortably and effortlessly, whether you’re flying, road tripping, or walking around town running errands. And the best part is that it’s only $26 — a price that will hardly make you dip too far into your travel budget.   

The bag is in good company at Amazon, which is bursting with travel-ready crossbody purses ahead of the warm-weather months (some of which are on sale). Keep scrolling to see which other styles are out there. 

More Crossbody Bags at Amazon: 

Alyssa triple zip pocket large crossbody bag, myfriday crossbody cell phone bag, fashionpuzzle triple-zip crossbody, k.carroll accessories kelsey crossbody.

At the time of publishing, the price started at $26. 

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