EXPLORE THE WORLD
Mount Rushmore, Black Hills, South Dakota
Explore From: Ellsworth AFB
Surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of nature at its best, adventure and education are woven together around every bend at Mount Rushmore. Activities abound to meet every taste, skill level, and intrepid spirit. Enjoy a day of hiking and equestrian trails exploring the hidden treasures of the park or join ranger led or enjoy a self-guided tour.
Great Smoky Mountains NP, North Carolina, Tennessee
Explore from: Arnold AFB
The lure and hospitality of the mountain culture invites you to explore the offerings of the magnificent vistas and sturdiness of nature at her most peaceful. Trails abound for a day of mountain biking, hiking, or horseback riding while searching for waterfalls, caves, or swimming holes.
Bryce Canyon and Zion NP, Utah
Explore from: Hill AFB
Explore the geological wonders of the red rocks, pink cliffs, and towering hoodoos of Bryce Canyon National Park. Trails cater to hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders of all experience levels.The winter months explode with new possibilities including cross-country skiing and snowshoe trails. Campers enjoy an unparalleled experience beneath the blanket of the Milky Way.
Continued adventure awaits at nearby Zion National Park. Towering cliffs and breathtaking canyons emerge around every curve in the road. Zion adds opportunities for those with permit-level rated experience to enjoy rafting, kayaking, and rock-climbing activities.
Sedona Red Rock Country, Arizona
Explore from: Luke AFB
While the iconic red rocks and layered monument formations of Sedona’s Red Rock Country are straight out of a classic Hollywood Western, the majesty and vastness of the landscape can only truly be appreciated in person. There are trails to explore on foot, horseback, or take a jeep off-road. Experience a bird’s eye view from a hot air balloon or biplane. The area is surrounded by National Forests with world class fishing.
Yosemite NP, California
Explore from: Travis AFB
The towering granite walls of El Capitan, the iconic Half Dome rising from the trees, and the abundant waterfalls make up the traditional image of Yosemite National Park. Experienced rock climbers with permits will find a variety of once-in-a-lifetime challenges. Hikers, horseback riders, mountain bikers, snowshoers and skiers will not be disappointed. The park offers opportunities for rafting, fishing, and swimming.
Denali NP and Reserve, Alaska
Explore from: Eielson AFB
Denali National Park and Reserve transforms with the seasons. Climbing from low elevation to North America’s tallest peak, visitors find activities to satisfy families, casual explorers, or highly experienced adventure seekers. Glimpse the abundant wildlife or enjoy a fishing expedition. Backpacking, hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding in the spring and summer transition to snowmobiling, dog sledding, and the chance to experience the Aurora Borealis in the night sky during winter.
Niagara Falls SP, New York
Explore from: Niagara Falls ARB
As the oldest state park in the United States, the power of Niagara Falls remains as breathtaking for visitors today as it did to Native Americans. Marvel at the view from the observation tower or enjoy a hike into the Niagara Gorge. Tour the Falls from the deck aboard the Maid of the Mist or choose a trail and explore the magnificent park.
Yellowstone NP, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming
Explore from: Mountain Home AFB, Malmstrom AFB, F.E. Warren AFB
As the first national park in the United States, Yellowstone sets a high standard. Driving through the vast park is a must, but pack plenty of patience and your camera as animals always have the right of way. Bison, moose, elk, bear, and bald eagles are likely to make an appearance. Divided into eight areas, the park has the feel of several parks merged into one. The distinct geologic attractions including geysers, mudpots, and hot springs are not to be missed. The Park Service offers a variety of guided activities off the beaten path.
Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
Explore from: Luke AFB
Standing awestruck on the edge of the Grand Canyon for the first time, or the tenth, is unforgettable for all who visit the canyon. The Upper Rims of the Canyon offer vistas that showcase millions of years geologic erosion and history carved into the Earth’s surface. Backcountry hikes, bike trips, and guided tours allow adventurers to experience the abundance of plants and animals that make the imposing landscape their home.
The Alps, Dolomites, Italy
Explore from: Aviano AB
Paradise. The Dolomites are a spectacular range of 18 peaks in the Italian Alps. This stunning landscape combines deep ravines with soaring mountain peaks giving way to gentle rolling hills and sapphire blue lakes. Comprised of a large UNESCO World Heritage protected buffer zone, the area sports several nature parks featuring activities from mountaineering, cycling, skiing, hiking, and climbing to the treasures of the local Christmas markets found in towns and villages tucked into the landscape.
The Cape Wrath Trail, Scotland
Explore from: RAF Lakenheath, RAF Mildenhall
Experienced long-distance backpackers with grit and endurance only! Beginning at Fort William and continuing 200 miles to Cape Wrath, the mostly unmarked route is beautiful, rugged, and magnificent. Careful planning along with a compass, ample provisions, a map, and navigation skills are essential when hiking this trail through the Scottish Highlands.
Mount Etna, Italy
Explore from: Aviano AB
Standing in the shadow of the highest volcano in Europe, visitors to Mount Etna in Italy are in for a rare treat. Included on the UNESCO World Heritage list, Mount Etna is a blend of scientific discovery partnered with opportunities for hiking, skiing, cycling, and guided tours of lava flow caves.
