Where to Travel If You Love Extreme Sports – AskMen

Posted On: October 7, 2019

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For many, simply traveling to a new place is enough to stir up some serious adrenaline. But every true thrill seeker knows that it takes a lot more than ordering coffee in a foreign language to get a real amount of adrenaline pumping through the body.

We know the feeling of great thrill – and that’s why we’ve pulled together a list of the best spots in the U.S. to travel if you’re looking for something a little bit more extreme than a relaxing day at the beach. These stateside destinations range from beginner water sports and scenic ziplining, all the way to fighter jet flying and skydiving – and you don’t even need a passport to check them out.

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Nature lovers flock to Lake Tahoe and neighbouring Reno for its out-of-this-world blue waters, hiking trails, and refreshingly laid back way of life that is oh-so different from its casinos and clubbing counterpart in Las Vegas. Beginner thrill-seekers will particularly love a visit to Lake Tahoe, where visitors can hop in a boat with Action Watersports and see the lake and surrounding area from above while parasailing. A great option for those who are just starting to appreciate a thrill, parasailing above the lake is low risk and relaxing, but still feels like quite an accomplishment for beginner thrill-seekers.

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Salt River Rafting Arizona

For another thrill on the water, head to Mesa, Arizona with Salt River Rafting. Participants will be taken out onto the Upper Salt River – with an experienced guide – for an unforgettable white water rafting experience. Salt River Rafting rapids are rated class III and IV and the river drops an average of 25 feet per mile for over 50 miles through the rocky, secluded canyons. Also available are scenic riverside campsites that are totally secluded and only available by raft.

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The Lost River Cave Flying Squirrel Zipline in Bowling Green, Kentucky, is an ideal family-friendly destination – but don’t let that fool you. The zipline flies through the treetops, over the Valley’s largest “blue hole.” What’s more, the natural wonder below you was originally a forgotten outdoor space and party spot for teens, but was completely cleaned up and salvaged by members of the Lost River Cave team. Today it has become a gorgeous natural park for visitors and locals alike.

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Head to Tordrillo Mountain Lodge, a luxury lodge near Anchorage, to learn the ins and outs of heli-ski from some of the best backcountry ski guides in the world. Here, you’ll be picked up and dropped at some of the highest peaks in Denali, where you’ll find untouched powder and extreme heights. Aside from an insane burst of adrenaline, participants can expect jaw-dropping views of Denali and the surrounding volcanic summits.

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A mash-up of surfing, paragliding, and wakeboarding, kitesurfing is a challenging and rewarding workout on the water. Located on the island of Oahu, Kailua is where to go if you want to kitesurf in the U.S. Great for beginners and more experienced riders alike, Kailua is an ideal spot for freeriding as the waves range so greatly.

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Sky Dive Key West

Perhaps one of the ultimate in extreme sports, skydiving is on many peoples’ bucket lists. While you can find a spot to jump out of an airplane pretty much anywhere in the U.S., we recommend taking the time to really consider where you want your first experience to be – it could be your last (kidding!). With so much to take in from above, you’ll want an absolutely gorgeous view below you, but you’ll also want to take into consideration how hard it would be to land. Key West is a great option for beginners. Considered America’s most scenic dropdown, Sky Dive Key West also boasts a great safety record.

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If you’re into extreme trail riding in the country but want to take things up a notch, look no further than snowmobiling in Michigan! Located in the state’s Upper Peninsula, these extreme trail rides are crafted for fun (and safety). Participants can opt for a solo ride or a guided tour, but either way, expect gorgeous trails, and an unforgettable ride.

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So you’ve already been skydiving all across the country and you’re looking for what’s next? Consider making a trip to Albatros, Florida for fighter jet flying. Fighter jets are typically used in the military and are designed for high speed and maneuvering in tricky situations (which means their barrel rolls and spins are unparalleled). At L-39 Albatros Jet Flight, you can channel your inner Thunderbird by flying around and upside down with a trained pilot and even having a go at the controls yourself.

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Think of flowriding as a hybrid somewhere between surfing and skateboarding. No ocena needed, flowriding involves balancing on an artificial wave in a large pool, and trying not to flip off the side and crash into the water. It may look like a sort of VR sport, but it’s a lot more challenging than it looks. FlowRider offers experiences in San Diego, California, and is perfect for beginner thrill-seekers (or anyone looking for a fun workout!).

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