Getting away from it all is one of life’s luxuries. However, standing shoulder to shoulder with hundreds of other visitors (often with kids in tow) is not our idea of ‘relaxation’. However, fear not, today we are going to show you our top 10 summer destinations away from the crowd. Peace, tranquility, and relative solitude, here we come!
Stanley, Idaho
If solitude and outdoor pursuits are what you crave, then Stanley, Idaho could be just the place for you. Located in the heart of Idaho County, Stanley is sparsely populated and full of natural wonders. You’ll be in fur trapper country. Make no mistake. Wooded glades, crystal clear rivers and streams, and towering mountains will make this a year-round destination. Climbing, rafting, skiing, riding, and fishing are all on the menu. What will you do?
There are numerous regional airports nearby, making it the perfect place to drop in and relax.
Deer Isle, Maine
Deer Isle (not to be confused with ‘Deer Island’ in an entirely different state) has a population of fewer than 2000 people. No crowds here. Situated on the southwest corner of the Bay of Fundy, you’ll be greeted with fields of lupins, quaint houses and shops, and an overall agreeable vibe.
There are no chain hotels here, just independently owned and run small hotels. Once you’ve had coffee and afternoon cookies, you’ll be able to kayak, fish, or take a long hike among rolling woods and trails.
There are more than a few airports within a one-hour drive too. Nice!
North Cascades National Park
Azure blue waters, pine forests, and glades are all set in a backdrop of brooding black and snow-topped mountains. Sounds ideal? Jagged peaks and glaciers await, provided you don’t mind walking. This is one of the lesser-known national parks that has managed to evade the threat of becoming over touristy.
The best place to start is by planning your wilderness trip. This is a true wilderness, so you are going to have to come prepared.
Crested Butte, Colorado
Think what you know about Colorado… We are willing to bet that ‘huge crowds’ wasn’t what came to mind. This mountain town offers a great many outdoor pursuits and activities. In the winter, it becomes something of a skiing mecca. You can hike amongst valleys teeming with wildflowers in the warmer months, enjoy mountain biking down mountain trails, and enjoy views across the Rocky Mountains.
If that all sounds just a little too energetic, then you can soak away the aches and pains of the day at Indian Hot Springs.
Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota
Another quiet one for your list. The Mid-West is well known for being remote. There are no crowds, as there is too much space! Jump off the airplane and onto a boat, exploring bays and remote islands, before relaxing and enjoying lunch afloat.
As the national park service states, it is a park of water, islands, and horizons. You will find plenty of all three. Time your visit right, and you might be able to spot the Aurora Borealis.
Gates of the Arctic National Park, Alaska
Let’s face it, to get away from the crowds, you might have to put in a little effort to get off the beaten track. It doesn’t come much more remote than Alaska. You won’t want to drive, and flying is the best option if you want to visit this national park.
The park’s remoteness only adds to the appeal. Depending on when you visit, you’ll be lucky if you encounter another soul as you explore the wilderness. It is recommended that you hire a guide if you are not used to touring backcountry areas.
Ogden, Utah
Head outside of the city, and you’ll find a range of delights. If skiing is your thing, then you couldn’t be in a better place. There are three resorts, all just outside the city center. Ogden is only 40 miles north of Salt Lake City.
Don’t feel limited to winter sports, either. It can get pretty hot (up to 106°F) in summer, so be sure to take some sunscreen as you enjoy various independent eateries, summer festivals, and an overall relaxed atmosphere.
Islamorada, Florida
Nothing says summer luxury like the ‘Keys’, an area famed for hidden mangrove-filled bays, turquoise waters, and a true Florida ‘buzz’. This location is the antithesis to Miami. Instead of packed beaches and summer parties, think more about fresh seafood restaurants, powder white sands, and palm trees.
Unlike the more well-known areas of the Keys, this still remains one of the South’s best-kept secrets and feels much more natural and serene.
The Black Hills, South Dakota
Sure, you could visit Mount Rushmore, or instead, how’s about going a little further out and exploring the verdant mountain terrain surrounding the area in the Black Hills? Hidden caves and virtually untouched trails await. Also, the thunderstorms here can be pretty amazing for those who like photography, especially in the summer months.
A really worthwhile experience is leaving the crowds to stare at Mount Rushmore while you visit Wind Cave, which, to date, has over 150 miles worth of passages mapped, with more being discovered yearly.
Finger Lakes, New York
Formed due to glacial meltwater, these lakes in New York State represent a great all-year-round destination. You’ll be able to get an outdoor fix of skiing, kayaking, fishing… And even ice-fishing (if you can stand the cold).
In recent years Finger Lakes has undergone somewhat of a ‘foodie revival’. Paired with a nice glass of locally produced wine, you’ll find artisanal fayre and a relaxed atmosphere.
Orcas Island, Washington
Guess what you can see here? The clue is in the name. Our advice is to avoid going too fancy and enjoy the simple life in a privately owned boutique guesthouse. Equally distant from Seattle and Vancouver, you have various options if you want to travel here. Relax, enjoy nature and spend your day hiking and seeing if you can spot a Killer Whale.
What keeps our suggested destinations crowd-free is that they aren’t always the most accessible by conventional means. If you haven’t considered flying private before, the above might give you the ideal opportunity. Sun Air Jets offer private jet charters to allow you to travel where and when you wish. Why not contact us and see what is available?
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