2020 Travel Trends: Exploring Nature Tourism

Nature tourism has become one of the hottest travel trends and for good reason. The mental and physical benefits of convening with nature are well-documented. Limited to domestic travel, Americans are rediscovering the beauty of our national parks. With sixty-two from which to choose, that’s plenty of nature to go around. Spending a few days exploring any of the national parks is not only healthy but therapeutic. Most parks have reopened with restrictions limiting the number of visitors. To guarantee entry, consult your travel advisor for reservations at park lodges.
Alternatively, less-populated state parks often draw fewer visitors which makes social distancing easier. And, of course, watching the surf from a secluded beach offers the ultimate in relaxation. Whether you prefer hiking, biking, kayaking or just a leisurely stroll along a beach, these nature-themed getaways will leave you refreshed and renewed.

Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee

The mist-shrouded Great Smoky Mountains National Park harbors 62 species of mammals and innumerable fish within its boundaries straddling the North Carolina and Tennessee border. More than 12 million people visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park each year. But, with 522,427 acres of old-growth forests, babbling brooks and majestic waterfalls, you’re certain to find your own nature oasis. Hike or walk along mountain trails, fish for trout in the streams or bike along scenic byways. However you choose to spend your time in this natural wonder, be sure to keep an eye out for the wildlife.

Refuel after your nature explorations at the Blackberry Farm. Nestled in the foothills of the Smokies of east Tennessee, this 4,200-acre estate offers unrivaled farm-to-table cuisine paired with award-winning wines. Ease weary muscles with a massage at The Wellhouse at Blackberry Farm. Luxury accommodations and butler service ensure a restful slumber. Private fly-fishing and horseback riding are among the list of amenities available.

Adirondack Mountains, New York

Social distancing comes effortlessly in New York’s Adirondacks State Park where six-million acres form the largest park in the US. Best known for its expansive unspoiled forests, sparkling lakes and gurgling rivers, the Adirondacks offer the ultimate nature getaway. With 30,000 miles of rivers and 3,000 lakes and ponds, endless opportunities for boating, canoeing and kayaking await. Over 2,000 miles of marked hiking trails ranging from easy to challenging provide ample choices for a real natural experience. You can even combine your love of wine and nature by bicycling between wineries on the Adirondack Coast.

Experience the charming community of Lake Placid with a stay at the rustic-chic Lake Placid Inn surrounded by the pristine lake. For the ultimate hideaway amid the arresting Adirondacks Mountains, reserve the Great Camp at Lake Kora. Ideally situated on its own 500-acre lake in 1,000 acres of wilderness, the retreat once served as a playground for America’s aristocracy during the Gilded Age. The property may only be reserved by exclusive booking August thru mid-October.

Nature Tourism on Martha’s Vineyard

A 95-minute ferry ride from Boston but seemingly worlds away, Martha’s Vineyard elevates the seaside experience. Nature unveils its wonders with sea birds, shorelines, rare grassland habitats and salt and freshwater ponds. Paddleboard in the ponds at Longpoint Wild Refuge then stroll the shore barefoot feeling the sand between your toes. Watch the seabirds as you search for shells on Katama Beach. Four miles of trails meander through woodlands, meadows, ponds, a salt marsh and along shorelines in the Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary providing ample opportunities for exploring and being at one with nature.

All cyclists will appreciate the 44 miles of down-Island bike trails. More experienced cyclists can opt for a tour of the up-Island communities of West Tisbury, Chilmark and Aquinnah where hilly terrain and curvy roadways present a challenging ride.

Sleep in style at the Harbor View Hotel. An icon of Martha’s Vineyard, this redesigned property offers unrivaled luxury just steps from the water. Experience your own little slice of island living by booking one of the legendary Captain’s Cottages.

Yellowstone and Grand Tetons National Parks

Situated above a volcanic hot spot, Yellowstone National Park harbors some of the country’s most fascinating natural wonders: Old Faithful geyser, Grand Prismatic Spring and the Yellowstone caldera. America’s first national park never disappoints nature lovers with its dramatic canyons, lush forests and alpine rivers. Here the hundreds of animal species include wolves, bison, antelope and grizzly bears.

Just 75 miles away, the majestic peaks of the Grand Tetons crown another favorite national park. Here the extraordinary mountain peaks, alpine terrain and varied wildlife continue your nature immersion. Explore over two hundred miles of trails, float the Snake River, and enjoy the serenity of this remarkable place.

Relive your adventures as you settle into the Four Seasons Resort Jackson Hole where luxury meets the American West. Sleep surrounded by a bounty of nature waiting to be explored more when you awake refreshed.

Crater Lake National Park

Located atop the Cascade Mountain Range in southern Oregon, Crater Lake dazzles all who gaze into its deep blue water. Formed 7,700 years ago when a violent volcano triggered the collapse of Mount Mazama, Crater Lake claims the title as the deepest lake in the USA and one of the most pristine on earth fed by the pure waters of snow and rain. Whether you take in the stunning views surrounding the lake along Rim Drive by car or bicycle, you’ll be entranced by this incredible natural wonder. Hiking trails lead into the surrounding forest for wildlife viewing and to peaks with stunning views.

The only accommodations in the park, Crater Lake Lodge welcomes you with the warmth and hospitality of a bygone era. Overlooking the lake at Rim Village, the lodge boasts majestic views of the sheer cliff walls leading to the lake’s blue waters.

Nature Tourism at Muir Woods and the Point Reyes Seashore

Few things in nature stir emotions like a walk beneath the old-growth coast redwoods of Muir Woods. These towering trees create a shady canopy providing a home for ladybugs and ancient horsetail ferns along with a host of other plants and insects. A National Monument since 1908, this primeval forest reveals much about our relationship with the landscape.

When you emerge from your place of solitude among the redwood giants, a coastline of epic beauty awaits along the Point Reyes National Seashore. Thunderous waves crash against the rocky headlands fringed by sandy beaches. Follow the Coast Trail from the Palomarin Trailhead to discover Alamere Falls—a rare tidefall that cascades directly into the ocean. The seashore’s iconic Point Reyes Lighthouse provides a lookout for migrating whales in the Pacific Ocean. About halfway between the lighthouse and the visitor’s center, the Cypress Tree Tunnel is an ideal place for an Instagram worthy photo in nature.

End your day’s explorations with an overnight stay at St. Helena in the Meadowood Napa Valley. Situated on a private estate, Meadowood serves as a center of social, cultural and viticultural life in Napa. It’s the perfect place to toast the end of a day in nature.