Sometimes when on vacation in the mountains I get a craving for something more than just a hike or off-roading. Perhaps I want to relax while still doing something fun and enjoying the scenery. There are so many activities that provide excitement and views without a ton of exertion on your whole body. On the opposite end of the spectrum, there are a ton of other activities that still provide great views, are different than the norm, and give you a great workout.
A few of the things I have looked into have been gondola rides, horseback riding, alpine coasters, and boat rentals. Most often if you are in mountain territory during the summer, you will be able to locate some or even all of these activities. If you want something more exciting and strenuous though, I would look into white water rafting, mountain biking, or zip-lining.
While visiting the ski towns, you can often get free gondola rides at some locations, on certain days of the week. Keystone and Breckenridge, Colorado have previously offered a day when you can ride the gondola to the top of the mountain for free. When you get to the top in Keystone you have the chance to do all kinds of fun outdoor games, have some drinks, sit and enjoy the views, or eat a meal at the restaurant. You could spend hours up there just wandering around.
While visiting Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, my husband and I, took time to do lots of different outdoor activities. We rented a pontoon and spent the day on the river. It was beautiful and we were able to enjoy some swimming as well. On the other end of the spectrum, we also went whitewater rafting, which was a blast. We rode two different alpine coasters, which are like roller coasters, but you have your own car and you control how fast you go. We tried out Goat’s On the Roof Alpine Coaster and the Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster. I enjoyed both but I think the Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster was my favorite, though you were able to feed goats at Goat’s On the Roof, so that makes both totally worth it in my book.
On two different trips to Colorado I went horseback riding on the mountainside. The ride was great because you have a chance to see all types of wildlife as well as get some great photo views. I recommend riding earlier in the day because there is something serene about the earlier hours meandering through the mountains.
I can’t forget to mention taking a trip to the hot springs. While in Steamboat my family decided we would spend an afternoon relaxing at Strawberry Park Hot Springs. This particular park is very family friendly and has a more natural look to it. There are several different pools all at varying temperatures. We had a great time though the place was most definitely on the packed side.
When you travel, don’t forget about all of the other amazing outdoor adventures you can partake in. There is way more to the mountains than just hiking and off-roading, although hiking and off-roading are pretty great. Try something new; you never know you may find a new activity that you just can’t resist doing over and over again in the future. To you and yours, happy hiking and exploring!
For a little extra information, please visit: http://strawberryhotsprings.com/facilities/
http://www.smokymountainalpinecoaster.com/
http://www.keystoneresort.com/activities/summer-activities.aspx?page=viewall&CMPID=PPC_DEST_KEYSTONE
http://www.horsebackestespark.com/
Star Spirit Adventures 