An Adventure Traveler's Guide To The Midwest

Whether you’re planning a winter or summer adventure vacation, the upper Midwest has your every outdoor sports need covered. Find a favorite spot for the classics, or try something totally new and extreme with Culture Trip’s list of must-visit hotspots.

Michigan

Boyne Mountain

What to do there: skiing, snowboarding, tubing, snowshoeing, ice skating

When to go: Winter

More info: 415 acres of slopes make Boyne Mountain the largest ski resort in the Midwest. It also comes equipped with an indoor waterpark, a massive spa and retail village for an all-inclusive winter getaway.

Boyne Mountain, 1 Boyne Mountain Rd, Boyne Falls, MI, USA +1 844 732 6875

Mackinaw Parasailing

What to do there: parasailing, boating

When to go: Spring, Summer, Fall

More info: Fly as high as 600 feet above the water attached to a parachute for unparalleled views and experience. Mackinaw City will send you up for more than 10 minutes for just $75 per person.

Mackinaw Parasailing, 209 S Huron Ave, Mackinaw City, MI, USA +1 231 436 7144

Wisconsin

Wildman Adventure Resort

What to do there: whitewater rafting, rock climbing, paintball, obstacle courses

When to go: Spring, Summer

More info: Two resort locations near the northern border of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Camping and cabins are also available, as well as golfing, fishing and hiking trails.

Wildman Adventure Resort, N22200 Bomber Rd, Niagara, WI, USA +1 715 757 2938

Alpine Valley Resort

What to do there: skiing, snowboarding

When to go: Winter

More info: Though open as a luxury resort all year round, Alpine is made for the winter. Enjoy 20 different runs spread across 90 acres, suitable for all experience levels.

Alpine Valley, W2501 County Road D, Elkhorn, WI, USA +1 262 642 7374

Minnesota

Gooseberry Falls State Park

What to do there: hiking, camping

When to go: Spring, Summer, Fall

More info: Hike 15 or 20 mile trails through 1,600-acre Gooseberry Falls. On the shores of Lake Superior, scenery includes waterfalls, wildlife and unparalleled views.

Gooseberry Falls State Park, 3206 MN-61, Two Harbors, MN, USA +1 218 595 7100

Sandstone Ice Festival

What to do there: ice climbing, skinny skiing, winter camping

When to go: Winter

More info: Scale frozen waterfalls at Sandstone’s annual festival and clinic. Climbers come together every January to celebrate the extreme sport as well as other family-friendly events spread across three days.

Sandstone Ice Festival, Old Wagon Rd, Sandstone, MN, USA +1 320 245 5241