denali kayak tour

Kayak Tours

The Southside of Denali is renowned for its incredible views, abundant wildlife, and rich history!

Kayaking the pristine waters in Talkeetna and Denali State Park is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the Alaskan wilderness and enjoy your time on the south side. Our kayaking tours are offered on Byers Lake in the heart of Denali State Park and X Lake in Talkeetna Lakes Park.

Denali Kayak Tour

Talkeetna Lakes Kayak Tour

• Trip duration: Plan for 2 hours for your adventure. Time on the water is approximately 1.5 hours, with extra time for gearing up and down.
• Service fee: $99.00 per adult.
• Children under 12: $69 per child.
• Departs from Talkeetna Lakes Park Day Use Area at 12:30 pm, 3:15 pm or 6:00 pm. Reservations required.
• Pick-up may be available from area lodging. Please call for this request.

Little adventures — big memories!

• 1-888-425-1737
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MCKINLEY, TALKEETNA SIGHTSEEING TOURS

Denali Kayak Tour

Approximately 3 hours

June 15 -September 15

departure dates are subject to change

Adult - $109.95

Child - $89.95

• Moderate Activity Level

Come see the beauty of Byers Lake as you glide through tranquil waters on single or tandem sit-on-top kayaks. Start your tour with brief and easy paddle instructions then embark on one of the most beautiful experiences in Alaska. Watch for resident trumpeter swans, loons and beavers. Paddle over pools of spawning salmon. Look for the bears and eagles that come to feed on them. Take pictures of the breathtaking views of Denali and the Alaska Mountain Range. This is a great trip for beginners or experienced paddlers as the boats are very stable and easy to maneuver.

Special Note

Minimum age is 5. Maximum weight is 300 lbs. Splash gear, water shoes, dry bag for cameras and personal flotation device will be provided. Tour will operate rain or shine. Time on kayak is approximately 2¼ hours.

This tour can only be booked in conjunction with a Denali rail tour. To add this tour to your package, please visit the Guest Service Desk upon arrival at your hotel or call 1-888-425-1737 to book in advance.

Denali Southside River Guides

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Similar Experiences

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Denali Southside River Guides - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Denali Kayak Tour

Exceptional value.

Book shore excursions with confidence! We offer competitive pricing, friendly service and unmatched destination expertise.

• CUSTOMER REVIEWS

Description

Points of Interest

• Denali State Park

Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.

Come see the beauty of Byers Lake as you glide through tranquil waters on single or tandem Sit-On-Top kayaks. Start your tour with brief and easy paddle instruction then embark on one of the most beautiful experiences in Alaska. Take pictures of the breath-taking views of Denali and the Alaska Mountain Range. Watch for resident trumpeter swans, loons and beavers. Paddle over pools of spawning salmon and look for the bears and eagles that come to feed on them. This is a great trip for beginners or experienced paddlers as our boats are very stable and easy to maneuver. Splash gear, boots or water shoes, personal floatation device and dry bags for cameras provided.

Special Notes:

Denali State Park: 2.5 Hour Byers Lake Kayaking Tour

Enjoy the tranquility of Denali State Park with the 2.5 Hour Byers Lake Kayaking Tour. As participants paddle through the pristine waters and majestic surroundings, a sense of wonder and adventure awaits.

The tour not only offers a glimpse into the natural beauty of Alaska but also provides a unique opportunity to witness its diverse wildlife up close.

With each stroke of the paddle, a new discovery awaits, making this experience a truly unforgettable journey into the heart of the Alaskan wilderness.

• 2.5-hour guided kayaking tour at Byers Lake in Denali State Park
• Small group setting with live tour guide for personalized experience
• Emphasis on safety, essential tips , and spotting local wildlife
• Flexible booking, free cancellation , and gift options for convenience

Here's some more nearby activities we've reviewed

• Talkeetna: Mountain Voyager With Optional Glacier Landing
• Talkeetna: Denali Flight Tour With Glacier Landing

Tour Overview

For an immersive adventure in Denali State Park, embark on a 2.5-hour kayaking tour with a live tour guide leading small groups of up to 10 participants. The tour will take you to the picturesque Byers Lake, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and wildlife.

Before setting out on the water, the guide will provide essential kayaking tips and a safety briefing, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for all participants. Paddling through the tranquil waters of Byers Lake, you’ll have the opportunity to spot local flora and fauna while taking in the natural beauty of the park.

This tour is perfect for both beginners and experienced kayakers looking to explore the Alaskan wilderness in a unique way.

Booking Details

Set out on a seamless booking experience for the Denali State Park kayaking tour with convenient options for cancellation, rescheduling , and flexible payment arrangements. When booking this adventure, visitors can look forward to the following:

Flexible Payment : Enjoy the ease of reserving now and paying later to maintain travel flexibility.

Free Cancellation : Benefit from a full refund if plans change, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Gift Options : Explore the opportunity to surprise a loved one with a memorable kayaking experience by choosing the gift option during booking.

These features ensure a stress-free process and offer peace of mind for those planning to embark on this exciting Byers Lake kayaking tour in Denali State Park.

More Great Things To Do Nearby

Location Information

Nestled within the picturesque Matanuska-Susitna Borough in Alaska, Denali State Park serves as the captivating backdrop for the exhilarating kayaking tour offered by Denali Southside River Guides. Byers Lake, located within Denali State Park, is the starting point for this adventure. The lake’s tranquil waters and stunning surroundings provide the perfect setting for a safe and enjoyable kayaking experience.

Denali Southside River Guides, a trusted local partner , ensures kayaking safety with expert guides and equipment. Participants can rest assured that their well-being is a top priority during the 2.5-hour tour. With the combination of breathtaking scenery and professional guidance, kayakers can enjoy the natural beauty of Denali State Park while feeling secure and supported.

Customer Reviews

Intriguing insights from participants offer valuable perspectives on the Denali State Park kayaking tour experience provided by Denali Southside River Guides. Anita’s feedback , in particular , highlighted the tour experience with detailed insights.

• Anita from the United States gave a helpful review on June 23, 2019
• Her review emphasized the exceptional value for money
• Anita’s feedback showcased the high level of service and safety standards maintained by the guides

Additional Information

For those interested in the Denali State Park kayaking tour, it’s essential to note that itineraries are subject to potential changes, ensuring a dynamic and adaptable experience for participants.

Common questions

What is the minimum age requirement for participants on the byers lake kayaking tour.

The minimum age requirement for participants on the Byers Lake kayaking tour is typically 10 years old, in adherence to safety regulations . It ensures a safe and enjoyable experience for all involved, with a focus on participant well-being.

Are There Any Restroom Facilities Available Along the Kayaking Route?

Restroom facilities are not available along the kayaking route. However, you will be surrounded by breathtaking scenic views during the 2.5-hour Byers Lake Kayaking Tour. The tour ensures a memorable experience despite the absence of restroom facilities.

Is There a Weight Limit for Participants on the Kayaking Tour?

Safety precautions are paramount for all participants on the kayaking tour. Equipment requirements must be met, and group dynamics considered. Weight limits may apply due to safety concerns. Weather conditions can impact the tour.

Are There Any Opportunities for Wildlife Sightings During the Tour?

Wildlife viewing during the tour is a highlight, offering unique opportunities for nature photography . Participants may spot various animals in their natural habitat, enhancing the kayaking experience with memorable encounters in Denali State Park.

Can Participants Bring Their Own Snacks or Beverages on the Kayaking Tour?

Participants can bring their own snacks for picnics during the kayak tour. They can also opt for non-alcoholic beverage choices, adhering to the policy of no alcohol on the excursion. Enjoying refreshments amidst nature enhances the kayaking experience.

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Set out on a thrilling adventure in the heart of Denali National Park with the Byers Lake Kayaking Tour.

With experienced guides, stunning landscapes , and competitive pricing , this 2.5-hour excursion promises an unforgettable experience for nature lovers.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to explore the Alaskan wilderness and create lasting memories on the water.

Book your tour today and get ready for an outdoor escapade like no other!

Photographer and Film Maker Ben Moon’s tribute video to his dog has something to teach us about life and how we approach it.

Watch with Kleenex – you have been warned.

“When someone you love walks through the door, even if it happens five times a day, you should go totally insane with joy.” – Really Smart Scientist Guy.

BTW – That really smart scientist guy is David Dudley.  His article titled, “ What Our Dogs Teach Us About Aging ” can be found here .

David’s full quote is:

So eat the best food you can afford. Go for a walk, even if it’s raining. Take a lot of naps. Keep your teeth clean and your breath fresh, so that the people you lick will not flinch. And when someone you love walks in through the door, even if it happens five times a day, go totally insane with joy.

“Play Nice, Speak Kindly, Have Fun, Smile Often!” (And don’t forget the sunscreen.) ~ Victoria Kayak Crew Philosophy

Share This Story, Choose Your Platform!

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Alaska Kayaking Trips

Paddle the calm waters of Alaska’s lakes and coastal areas with an experienced guide.

• Things to Do

Most Popular

• Kenai Fjords Kayaking
• Fox Island Kayaking
• Resurrection Bay Kayaking
• Denali State Park Kayaking
• Spencer Glacier Kayak

Activity Finder

Kayaking offers an immersive experience of Alaska. Whether paddling a peaceful mountain lake or a glacial fjord, visitors can be assured of an experience like no other. All tours feature an experienced naturalist guide who will assist you with gear, technique, and information about the area you visit. No experience is necessary for most trips.

The community of Seward is a popular place to kayak thanks to an abundance of sheltered coves and bays, many with massive glaciers standing tall at the far end. For those new to paddling, or with a tight schedule, the Resurrection Bay Kayak Tour is the perfect option. Explore the Caines Head State Recreation Area, keeping an eye out for seals, whales, and sea otters along the way.

For a longer paddle, the Northwestern Fjord-Aialik Bay Day Trip is a full-day experience inside beautiful Kenai Fjords National Park . The trip is limited to 12 people and is the perfect adventure for those wanting an intimate view of the wild coastlines of Alaska.

Slightly shorter in duration, a Bear Glacier Iceberg Kayak tour takes guests on a five-hour trip of the glacier's protected lagoon. Feel the cold katabatic winds as you paddle among icebergs calved from the face of the glacier. Closer to Seward, a Fox Island Kayak tour sticks to coves closer to civilization and includes a salmon and prime rib lunch.

Farther down the Kenai Peninsula in Homer , many local businesses offer excellent kayaking that include a water taxi ride across to Kachemak Bay.

For travelers looking to explore freshwater environments, the Denali State Park Kayak Trip departs from McKinley Princess Lodge for a few hours of paddling the quiet waters of scenic Byers Lake. There are also several exciting, scenic raft tours if you're especially interested in experiencing Alaska by river.

For all Alaska kayak trips, remember to dress in layers, with extras in case you get wet. Also plan on warm layers and wool socks for kayak trips in glaciated waters. Bring water, a camera, and a hat.

Seward Resurrection Bay Kayaking

A wonderful option for families with kids or adults looking for a relaxed kayaking experience, this guided tour paddles three scenic miles of pristine Alaskan coastline. Learn More >

Glacier Blue Kayak & Grandview Tour

Spend a full day living three of Alaska's best experiences on this bucket-list trip: Take a ride on the Alaska Railroad, kayak among icebergs, and trek on a glacial moraine. Learn More >

Seward Tonsina Point Kayak & Exploration

Enjoy seven splendid hours exploring Resurrection Bay by boat and beach on this family-friendly kayaking excursion. Learn More >

Fox Island Kayaking Afternoon

Spend an afternoon paddling around Fox Island in Resurrection Bay. Lunch and roundtrip tour boat included. Learn More >

Fox Island Kayaking Morning

Spend a full day exploring Resurrection Bay by kayak and wildlife cruise on this active excursion. The trip includes a buffet lunch. Learn More >

Bear Glacier Iceberg Kayaking

Cruise to Kenai Fjords National Park's pristine Bear Glacier Lagoon by jetboat and enjoy a spectacular paddle among otherworldly icebergs on this active adventure tour out of Seward. Learn More >

Northwestern Fjord - Aialik Bay Kayaking Day Trip

Enjoy a spectacular small-group kayaking experience deep within the quietest and most rugged corners of Kenai Fjords National Park on this full-day paddling trip out of Seward. Learn More >

Denali State Park Kayak Trip

With complimentary transportation available from the McKinley Princess Lodge, this easy three-hour kayak trip takes visitors into the wildlife-rich waters of Byers Lake. Learn More >

Talkeetna Lakes Kayak Tour

Take in the serenity of Alaskan wilderness on this two-hour kayak tour in Talkeetna. Great for beginners. Learn More >

Ultimate Kachemak Bay Kayak & Hike

Spend a full day on an active adventure that showcases some of the best spots to hike and paddle near Homer. Learn More >

Elephant Rock Kayak Adventure

Paddle the emerald waters of Kachemak Bay on this six-hour guided kayak trip from Homer. The tour includes roundtrip water taxi to the kayak launch at Yukon Island. Learn More >

Eagles Nest Half Day Kayak Trip

Enjoy a shorter introductory kayak tour with a guide in the beautiful blue water near Homer. Learn More >

Alaska Rafting Trips

Capture a unique view of Alaska while rafting through stretches of wilderness with experienced guides. Keep an eye out for wildlife as you float along the Last Frontier's scenic rivers. Learn More >

Climber who died in cave near top of North America's tallest mountain is identified

Park officials say a Malaysian climber likely died of exposure and altitude-related illness as he sheltered in a snow cave at the top of Denali, North America’s tallest mountain in Alaska

DENALI NATIONAL PARK AND PRESERVE, Alaska -- A Malaysian climber likely died of exposure and altitude-related illness earlier this week after sheltering for days in a snow cave with minimal survival gear near the top of Denali, North America's tallest mountain in Alaska, park officials said Saturday.

Zulkifli Bin Yusof, 36, likely died Wednesday in a 19,600 foot (5,974 meter) elevation cave in Denali National Park and Preserve, park spokesman Paul Ollig said Saturday. The National Park Service recovered his body Friday night, Ollig said.

Yusof was part of a three-man climbing team, all of whom listed their address as the Alpine Club of Malaysia in Subang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia, according to Ollig. Yusof's two partners survived.

Park rangers first received an SOS message from the team at 1 a.m. Tuesday, indicating the climbers were hypothermic and unable to descend after reaching the Alaskan mountain's 20,310-foot (6,190-meter) summit.

One of the men, a 48-year-old, was rescued Tuesday night after descending to a 17,200-foot (5,243-meter) camp. He was described by the park as having severe frostbite and hypothermia.

Late Thursday, the park’s high-altitude helicopter pilot was able to drop a bag with survival gear near the snow cave and saw a climber waving at him, but strong winds prevented a rescue at that time, the park said.

The other climber, a 47-year-old, was rescued Friday morning after days of cloudy, windy conditions .

Two of the three men had previous experience on Denali, Ollig said. All three had previously climbed other high-elevation mountains, he said.

The climber rescued Friday was medevaced to an Anchorage hospital for additional care and “was in surprisingly strong condition, walking on his own even, considering what he endured,” Ollig previously said. The climber's name and additional information about him and the other survivor would not be released by the park.

The other climber is also recovering at a hospital.

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Meeting Mickey Mouse, backpacking in the wilderness or gazing at rock formations so strange and vividly colored they barely seem real: it would take several lifetimes to tick off all the must-do experiences on offer in America. Here's our selection of the top 63 unmissable experiences you must have in the USA.

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See grizzly bears in Denali, Alaska

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Kayak around glaciers in Kenai Fjords, Alaska

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Go wine-tasting in Napa Valley, California

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Hike to the Hollywood sign, California

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View fall colors on Trail Ridge Road, Colorado

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Visit Ancestral Puebloan ruins at Cliff Palace, Colorado

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Learn to surf on Oahu, Hawaii

Surfing and Oahu are as inseparable as boards and wax or salt and sand. Many of the blazingly white beaches here are great spots for beginners too. Check out surf schools and board rentals at White Plains Beach, whose gentle, consistent waves are ideal for those who have yet to master their cutbacks and carves or join laid-back crowds at Waikiki Beach.

Take an architecture boat tour in Chicago, Illinois

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Have a Sazerac in New Orleans, Louisiana

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Summit Cadillac Mountain in Maine

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Eat lobster rolls in Maine

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View wild horses on Assateague Island, Maryland

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Go beach-hopping on Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts

Martha’s Vineyard has long been a favorite place to 'summer', so of course the island has gorgeous beaches. Some are private or attached to resorts but many can be explored freely. Paddle, hike or drive between sandy spots like Lobsterville Beach, with dunes and popular fishing areas, and Menemsha Public Beach, known for its gin-clear water. There are five lighthouses to visit too.

Boat around Isle Royale, Michigan

Car-free Isle Royal National Park is an archipelago on Lake Superior, part of the Great Lakes chain. Most of the 200-plus islands feel wonderfully isolated, with networks of trails through forests, around the lakeshore and to waterfalls. The largest, Isle Royale, is home to moose, snowshoe hares and wolves. Take a boat trip around the islands or camp at one of the backcountry sites.

28 camping and RV hacks that are borderline genius

Follow the Mississippi Blues Trail

Highway 61 isn’t called the Blues Highway lightly. This route , which follows the wiggles of the Mississippi River as it crosses the state, has as many musical connections as it has bends. Bob Dylan named an album after it, Muddy Waters, Sam Cooke and Howlin’ Wolf lived near it and now Morgan Freeman owns a blues club – Ground Zero in Clarksdale – along the route.

Drive the Going-to-the-Sun Road, Montana

You’ll need at least two hours to drive this 50-mile (80km)  iconic mountain road , which zig-zags vertiginously in Glacier National Park. You’ll want to spend a lot longer, though, as the reasons to pull over and gaze at the views are endless. Keep watch for mountain goats and bighorn sheep, which graze on the slopes, and plan to stop at Jackson Glacier Overlook for pine-fringed views of the park’s seventh largest glacier. Sometimes part of the road might be closed, so be sure to always check the website for alternative routes.

Hit the Las Vegas Strip, Nevada

Some people hate it, others return year after year, drawn to the flashing lights and flashier casinos like moths to a glamorous flame. But we think everyone should experience Las Vegas  and its strip of hotels, restaurants, bars and gambling tables at least once and make up their own minds. For a more laid-back vibe, spend a little time exploring the museums and hip bars of downtown.

Follow the Tahoe Rim Trail, Nevada

You’d need a lot of stamina and free time to hike the entire Tahoe Rim Trail , which circles North America’s biggest lake for 165 miles (265km). Hiking a portion of it is a more achievable, yet still satisfying, challenge. A series of well-mapped routes cut through forests and fir and pines, skimming above shimmering bays and passing meadows, beaches and lava formations.

Take a look at America’s greatest lakes here

Marvel at White Sands National Monument, New Mexico

White Sands isn’t a misnomer: these pale dunes resemble whisked egg whites or soft peaks of Chantilly cream. They roll and ripple for 275 square miles (710sq km) between the Andres and Sacramento mountain ranges. You’ll probably want to jump around and roll down the slopes, and you can: sledding and hiking is permitted.

Take a boat beneath Niagara Falls, New York

Perhaps the most famous waterfalls in the world make up Niagara Falls, on the border between the US and Canada. New York State is home to the smallest of the three – American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls – but arguably boasts the best vistas. Soak up the views and the water on the popular Maid of the Mist boat tour, which starts and ends on the US side.

Catch the ferry to Ellis Island, New York

The Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration is dedicated to the 12 million immigrants who first stepped on the US soil right here and to whom around 100 million Americans can trace their ancestry. Their stories are both humbling and sobering. Ferry tickets include another bucket list item: the Statue of Liberty...

Visit the Statue of Liberty, New York

You can access Liberty Island to meet the lady herself too. There are three grades of tickets : one that allows access to the island, one to climb the Fort Wood part of the pedestal and a third (be sure to book well in advance) which means you can get up to the crown. 

Here's our pick of the best New York hotels that won't break the bank

See New York from the Top of the Rock

Gazing over Manhattan’s sleek and sparkling skyline is on pretty much everyone’s must-do list and there are lots of viewpoints to choose from. The Empire State Building is a popular one, but we think the Top of the Rock tops even that. For a start, you can see the needle-topped Empire State from this vantage point in the Rockefeller Center and the views across Central Park aren’t too shabby, either.

Check out our ranking of the world’s most expensive views

Kayak among Finger Lakes wineries, New York

The novelty of arriving at a winery by boat is reason enough to go tasting in the Finger Lakes, a series of 11 skinny lakes that resemble gnarled digits. There are more than two dozen wineries tucked around the shores of Cayuga Lake and you can rent a kayak or join a boat tour to visit them. The wine is pretty good too, from Riesling to ice wine.

Hit the beach at Coney Island, New York

Dig out your retro swimwear and roll up your towel. This crowded yet charming Brooklyn neighborhood is really more like a beach resort and one that’s changed little since the 1950s. Candy floss on the boardwalk, arcades filled with vintage games, amusement park rides and people splashing in the waves – it’s a refreshing escape from hot New York summers.

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Eat Buffalo wings in Buffalo

As one of the most beloved dishes of the American cuisine, no US bucket list can be complete without eating Buffalo wings in its birthplace, Buffalo, New York. This sports bar classic gets its name from the Buffalo sauce in which the chicken wings are tossed in. One of the best ways to indulge in this fiery American dish is to take on the Buffalo Wing Trail , which will guide you through 14 of the best Buffalo wings throughout the city.

See the Great Smokies from Clingmans Dome, North Carolina

Clingmans Dome is the highest part – and best vantage point – of the Great Smoky Mountains. Views stretch up to a hundred miles (160km) on clear days (though there’s often mist clinging to the canopies of spruce-fir trees below). Conveniently, there's parking half a mile (800m) from the summit, which is topped by an observation tower.

Sample craft brews in Portland, Oregon

Hip Portland was one of the first places to become famed for craft beer and, though pretty much every US city has a smattering of breweries, it’s still one of the best places to sip through IPAs, porters and sours. There are several tours and ale trails to try all kinds of local beers while walking through beautiful Portland. Or just find a nice spot and sup up.

Boat around Crater Lake, Oregon

The first challenge when visiting America’s deepest lake is finding it, as it’s often shrouded in fog in winter. Once you’ve surmounted that hurdle, one of the best ways to enjoy the lake is with a boat tour. In summer, the park operates regular rides that circle the volcanic islands and pass by the Old Man of the Lake, a hemlock tree trunk that bobs in the water.

See past presidents at Mount Rushmore, South Dakota

It’s starred in movies (remember that cliff-clinging scene in Hitchcock’s North by Northwest ) and its image is carved in the minds of most of us. But nothing quite prepares you for seeing such a well-known landmark close-up. Amp up the drama by visiting at night to see the mountainside faces of presidents Washington, Jefferson, Roosevelt and Lincoln spectrally illuminated .

Spot buffalo in the Black Hills, South Dakota

The Black Hills and Badlands area is one of the best places to see American bison or buffalo, with huge herds grazing the prairies and grasslands. See herds munching at the base of Bear Butte or drive the 18-mile (29km) Wildlife Loop in Custer State Park, home to around 1,300 of the hairy, humpbacked creatures. Go in late September to witness the thundering spectacle of the herds being rounded up .

Go walking on Beale Street in Memphis, Tennessee

Take a trip to Graceland, Tennessee

Hyped-up places can so often be disappointing, but  Elvis Presley’s mansion  is not one of them. The sleek tour allows visitors to wander through the building and zoom in on items with an iPad, revealing extra facts, footage and pictures. Peek into the Jungle Room, pay your respects at the King’s grave and visit Gladys’ Diner for a deep-fried peanut butter and banana sandwich (Elvis’ fave).

Hit Nashville’s honky-tonks, Tennessee

Pull on your cowboy boots and button up your checked shirt – Nashville’s famous Music Row (a stretch of Broadway) is the place to be more than a little bit country. Weaving in and out of the honky-tonks along the road is as much a must as catching a performance at the Grand Ole Opry . Most bars have musicians performing pretty much all night long, and the dancing often spills onto the sidewalks.

Explore Big Bend, Texas

The vast and varied landscape of this  national park  in southwest Texas will have hikers strapping on their backpacks and boots. It’s home to the Chios mountains, limestone cliffs, waterfalls and sections of the Chihuahuan Desert. Scale mountain peaks or see the park from a raft on the Rio Grande. This desert national park can get extremely warm, so be sure to check temperatures in the park before planning a hike. 

Terrific Texas: 40 things you must do in the Lone Star State

Join the BBQ lines in Austin, Texas

BBQ is one of those foods that the mere mention of causes people to salivate and it's nothing unusual to want to travel thousands of miles to sample some of the world's best. Hip Austin is as famous for popular places serving tender brisket, ribs and sausages cooked low and slow over woodsmoke. Even lining up for hours has become a 'thing' – iconic spot  Franklin  attracts party crowds with a BYOB policy, buskers and ball games.

See the hoodoos at Bryce Canyon, Utah

Bryce Canyon's  tall, spindly rock spires or hoodoos are the most distinctive feature of this otherworldly landscape, creating a jagged sprawl of apricot and cream towers. Follow hiking trails that wind beneath the strange rock formations, through forest and around the series of natural amphitheaters that make up the national park.

Pose outside the White House, Washington DC

Take a selfie outside the gleaming seat of power in the country’s capital, a city that’s filled with history and also buzzing with life (the food scene is particularly dynamic). The gates to the White House tend to be crowded with tourists during the day, so go at dusk for a clearer, and more atmospheric, photo. The Lincoln and George Washington memorials are both within walking distance too.

Don't miss our guide to Washington DC's best bits

Wander around Seattle’s Pike Place Market, Washington

Where can one eat the best Greek yogurt, try tasters of clam chowder, sample craft beer and watch fish fly through the air? You could spend a day at Pike Place Market on Seattle’s waterfront and still not have scratched its delicious, quirky surface. The highlight for many is the Fish Market, where mongers throw specimens from the display to the weighing scales, to the delight of crowds.

Here’s what else to do in Seattle

Walk through rainforest at Olympic National Park, Washington

Olympic National Park is rich in natural beauty, from glacier-capped mountains and dark-honey beaches to natural hot springs. But arguably the most beautiful, and unexpected, part is Hoh Rain Forest , where old-growth trees are shrouded in vivid emerald moss. Two trails run from the visitor center and, if you want to spend more time in this quietly magical place, you can camp overnight.

Kayak around the San Juan Islands, Washington

The waters that surround the San Juan Islands , northwest of Seattle, are home to resident orcas and other pods that visit in summer. Several companies including Outdoor Odysseys run kayaking day tours or overnight trips for a chance to see the striking whales up close. Even if you don’t see any orcas, you’re likely to see seals, dolphins, bald eagles and otters as you paddle by driftwood beaches and pine-studded shorelines.

See the ice formations at Apostle Islands, Wisconsin

Certain conditions are needed to visit the ice formations at Apostle Islands National Shoreline . They can only be reached by foot, when the ice on Lake Superior is thick enough to walk on. Some years, it isn’t. But that just makes gazing at this natural spectacle, where caves drip with icicles by the lakeshore, even more spectacular.

Admire Devils Tower, Wyoming

The parallel cracks that run down Devils Tower make it a popular spot for crack climbing. Unless you’re very experienced, we recommend viewing the monolith from the ground. The structure, which resembles a huge tree stump, is a sacred site for more than 20 Native tribes, including Cheyenne and Lakota, and you can join ranger-guided hikes in summer.

Discover Wyoming with our guide to the north of the state

Gaze at geothermal pools in Yellowstone, Wyoming

Yellowstone National Park has the largest number of geysers and geothermal pools in the world and they are also among the most striking. They hiss, spurt and sparkle in vivid shades of blue, green, pink and yellow. Grand Prismatic Spring is the most famous example and can be viewed (at a safe distance) from an overlook.

Of bison and bears: why Yellowstone is an important reminder of our place on the planet

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