Best Trails for National Take A Hike Day, Nov 17

WEST COAST

Rancho La Puerta, Tecate, MX

Rancho La Puerta is the original “fitness resort” and spa welcomes some 140 guests each week to its 3,000 private acres of gardens, mountains and meadows in Baja California, Mexico. All facilities and land are for the exclusive use of guests who come for an entire week, Saturday to Saturday, or partial-week stays of three or four nights. It's a unique escape for women and men offering over 80 fitness classes including TRX, yoga, pilates and advanced hiking trails as well as spa treatments and therapeutic sessions. Hiking is a very big part of the Rancho La Puerta guest experience. Most guests do some sort of hike before breakfast each morning. Rancho La Puerta is located in the mountains and the guided hiking trails are a five minute walk from the resort, offering over 50 miles of hiking trails. Options include a two-mile hike through an oak grove with undulating terrain, a nine-mile mountain hike, and everything in between. A few standout hikes include:

• Organic Garden Breakfast Hike - A four-mile round trip trek over rolling hills to La Cocina Que Canta, the Ranch's culinary center and organic six-acre farm. Enjoy a garden breakfast, followed by a garden tour with the resident horticulturist.

• Quail Two - A 2.5-mile hike that winds across the meadow and along a stream before climbing up to the base of the mountain. Returns via the oak grove.

• Coyote Hike - A 5.5-mile strenuous hike winding up the mountain between the Pilgrim and the Professor routes and then looping back along the flanks of Mt. Kuchumaa. Elevation gain of 800+ feet.

Mountain Trek | Nelson, British Columbia

A true backcountry experience, Mountain Trek offers guests a dynamic boot camp vacation while also providing an upscale resort experience at their beautiful lodge in Nelson, British Columbia. Set in spectacular natural landscapes, guests spend time focusing on hiking-based activities in the beautiful mountains of British Columbia. Mountain Trek takes hiking to the next level by utilizing Nordic Trekking Poles, and employing postural ergonomic instruction for a full body workout, that increases cardio and maximizes muscle power. Program Director Kirkland Shave motivates guests with a sense of adventure and wonder, taking them through a new trail each day, offering different environments and views among nature. Some of the premier hiking trails to explore at Mountain Trek include:

• Fry Creek Canyon in Purcell Wilderness Conservancy - Explore breathtaking views along the pristine Kootenay Lake, set below the snowcapped Selkirk Mountains of British Columbia. The trail takes trekkers snaking along an old 1920s Gold Mining mule trail that hugs the canyon above the crystalline glacial run off

• Idaho Peak - Take the trail three grades up the mountain to access the old Forest Fire Lookout, where hikers will find 360 degree views of the shimmering Slocan Lake below, and Kokanee Glaciers and the Selkirk Mountain peaks across the valley. Visit July through September and experience the park's "Sound of Music" backdrop with the most outstanding, rainbow colored array of alpine wild flower meadows

Keystone Lodge & Spa | Keystone, Colorado

Hiking is a summer staple throughout Colorado, and Keystone is no exception with six different guided hikes offered for guests staying at various properties including Keystone Lodge & Spa and Ski Tip Lodge. Whether it’s a casual sunset hike or a calorie-burning fitness hike, a mountaintop hike or valley hike, Keystone’s guided hikes each offer a unique resort experience fun for all ages. The spectacular views are combined with a pleathora of information regarding local history, nature and high alpine environments that are sure to leave guests with a complete appreciation of the mountain environment of Keystone Resort. For the kids, Keystone offers the Kids Nature Hike & Crafts where children can enjoy a short hike while gathering nature items found along the way to make a souvenir.

Four Seasons Resorts Lana'i | Lana'i, HI

With only 30 miles of paved roads on the entire island, Lāna‘i is a hiker’s dream. From beachside paths perfect for a sunrise stroll to more strenuous tree-lined trails that crest mountain tops, the island of Lāna‘i offers hikes to suit every level. Now guests of Four Seasons Resorts Lāna‘i have an even better reason to hit the road, with a series of guided hikes, complimentary to guests. Led by the resort’s Beach Specialists the hikes range from 60–90 minutes and are designed to showcase the beauty, history and lore of the island. A few standout hikes include:

• Sunrise Pu‘u Pehe Hike - Enjoy an early morning hike to the summit overlooking one of Lāna‘i’s most recognizable landmarks, Pu‘u Pehe, also known as Sweetheart Rock. Immerse yourself in culture and learn the legend behind Pu‘u Pehe, how Shark Bay got its name and why there are so many holes in the ground along the way. All this, while witnessing what may possibly be the most beautiful sun rise ever, folks on Lāna‘i say. The moderate hike is approximately 75 minutes, give or take time spent snapping pictures!

• Kapiha‘ā Trail Hike - A preservation trail with million dollar views along the southern coast line. Once used by the ancient Hawaiians, the Fisherman’s trail as it’s also known, offers a glimpse of life in the past. Watch as one of the largest blow holes on Lāna‘i shoots into the sky, Mother Nature permitting. This adventure concludes as you make your way through the actual ruins of Kapiha‘ā Village, established 600 years ago on Lāna‘i. The hike averages 90 minutes, and is moderate, but can be challenging in certain areas. Head back to the hotel or stop off at VIEWS, the new Clubhouse at the resort’s golf course for lunch with a great view.

Lāna‘i also offers a number of self-guided hikes as well, including the five-mile Koloiki Ridge Hike. Guests can pick up a descriptive trail map from the Lāna‘i Culture & Heritage Center or from The Lodge at Kō‘ele and head out the back to get started. Enter a forest canopy of pine and eucalyptus trees and hike towards Maunalei Valley and Naio Gulch, and maybe catch a glimpse of Axis deer, and Moloka‘i and Maui in the distance.

The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage | Rancho Mirage, Calif.

Enveloped within the Santa Rosa Mountain range and offering striking panoramic views of the great Palm Springs and the surrounding valley, two hidden desert trails located directly next to The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage are perfectly situated for the luxury traveler looking to stay fit and active on National Take a Hike Day. On November 17 at 7am hiking expert Frank Sheckler will lead a 90-minute guided hike through one of two of hidden trails starting and ending at The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage. The Roadrunner / Big Horn Overlook Trail is two and a half miles of awe-inspiring views of deep, colorful canyons and unrivaled sights of natural desert landscape. The Chuckwalla Trail is moderately intense and takes hikers through uncrowded, quiet trails that skirt steep cliff edges. Hikers can feel safe in the hands of Frank, who has over 30 years of experience in the field as a seasonal National Park Ranger in Joshua Tree National Park. The hikes are complimentary to resort guests and take place daily, offering expertise about wildlife, plants, nature destinations in the area, and the human history of the beautiful lands. For those who prefer to hike on their own, the resort provides maps to stunning scenery perfect for the desert adventurer.

Westin Lake Las Vegas | Henderson, Nev.

The Westin Lake Las Vegas Resort & Spa is a retreat from the neon lights of the Las Vegas “Strip” to a lakeside paradise where guests can enjoy stunning views of the Nevada desert and surrounding mountains. Located just 30 minutes away is nearby Red Rock Canyon, a national conservation area of worldwide geologic interest and beauty. Red Rock Canyon encompasses 195,819 acres within the Mojave Desert and boasts 19 hiking trails in an extensive trail system of crayons and peaks, ledges and chimneys and chutes and gullies. From the short and easy Fire Ecology trail for beginners to the strenuous, 5-mile long Turtlehead Peak trail for adventure enthusiasts, the area has something to offer for hikers of all ages and skill levels. Hiking guides can take guests out on guided sunset tours to witness the area’s nocturnal and crepuscular wildlife and discuss plant and animal adaptations for living in the dark. Guests can bring their furry friends along for dog-friendly guided hikes, combining an overview of Red Rock Canyon and some of it’s hardy plants and animals. To supplement time spent off-the-grid outdoors, guests can unwind at Spa Moulay, indulge in AAA Four-Diamond Japanese cuisine at the signature restaurant, Marssa or play a round at the renown Reflection Bay Golf Course. The Westin Lake Las Vegas has exceptional service with its renowned Heavenly® Beds, nourishing SuperFoodRx(™) dishes and energizing WestinWORKOUT program. The 3,600 acre Lake Las Vegas resort is located in Henderson, Nevada, about 30 minutes from The Strip and McCarran Las Vegas International Airport.

Surf & Sand Resort | Laguna Beach, CA

The Surf & Sand Resort is directly located in Laguna Beach, offering flawless oceanfront views, impeccable dining, a superb spa and a variety of ways to explore the locale. A short 15 minute drive will land you amidst some of the destinations finest trails. The Aliso & Wood Canyons Regional Park is home to Aliso Canyon, which is an intermediate level hike, stretching on a 20 mile singletrack with elevation up to 126 feet. For the more experienced hiker, trek through miles of coastal wilderness with resort partner, La Vida Laguna. If you prefer to take on the trails without guidance, the three options include the Laguna Summit, the Dartmoor Loop and Laurel Canyon. The Laguna Summit starts at the downtown Festival of Arts and ascends behind the Water Tank Trail. The climb continues to expand up the ridge line with breathtaking views of the ocean south to Laguna. The Dartmoor Loop is also deemed a vigorous, intermediate hike, climbing from sea level to ridge. This trail offers spectacular views with Saddleback Mountain to the east and Catalina island to the west. The Laurel Canyon trail is regarded as an easier intermediate hike in the heart of the Laguna Coast Wilderness Park.

Located directly on 500 feet of California’s pristine Laguna Beach, Surf & Sand Resort offers private oceanfront balconies, exquisite coastal dining, an award-winning spa and more. From those looking for a family adventure to couples and friends seeking a pure relaxing getaway, Surf & Sand Resort has you covered. The resort offer 167 beachfront guest rooms, including 13 Laguna Beach suites, all of which feature stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.

Hotel Terra and Teton Mountain Lodge & Spa | Jackson Hole, Wyoming

With an endless network of trails in Jackson Hole, this is the place to be for National Take A Hike Day! Located in the heart of Teton Village, Hotel Terra and Teton Mountain Lodge & Spa both offer right out-your-door-access to hundreds of hiking trails for all levels in Grand Teton National Park, Yellowstone National Park and Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. Jackson Hole's Aerial Tram also offers a unique way to experience the trails, leaving hikers at 10,450’ feet above ground among the highest peaks of the Southern Tetons so hikers are able to experience the views without struggling with a 4,000+ feet climb to the top. Jackson Hole’s hiking trails range from easy to advanced, with some trails extending over a few days and up to 40 miles, while others are more relaxed for any skill level such as taking a leisure walk around Jenny Lake.

In addition, Hotel Terra has partnered with an in-house naturalist, Kurt Johnson, who can take guests on a variety of programs that include a wildlife safari or unique photo safari to share the fascinating stories behind the wildlife, plants, mountains and more.

Washington School House | Park City, Utah

Washington School House has partnered with Park City Adventures to offer an unforgettable hike up a 10,000-year-old Crater where guests can then experience Stand Up Paddle Board Yoga Adventure inside the crater. The instructor demonstrates yoga poses from the dock while guests move and bend on paddle boards that float in the 90-plus-degree natural therapeutic pool.

As one of the last surviving schoolhouses built in 1889, the hotel graduated to a new level of luxury in December 2011 with the completion of a stunning renovation. The design team crafted twelve spectacular suites and original antiques and art punctuate rooms within the original structure, creating breathtaking spaces. Breakfast is served daily, featuring hearty mountain cuisine and daily après-ski fare is also included after a day on the slopes.

L’Auberge de Sedona | Sedona, AZ

One of the most sought after destinations in the U.S., Sedona, Arizona is outdoor enthusiasts dream with a variety of red rock formations that offer endless miles of trails perfect for National Take a Hike Day. A beautiful, creekside retreat, L’Auberge de Sedona has recently partnered with The Hike House, creating the perfect opportunity for those looking to get outdoors and explore the famed hiking trails of Sedona. Through the partnership, guests of L’Auberge de Sedona will have access to all The Hike House has to offer - including tailored trail finders, guided adventures, hiking clinics and all the hiking gear one could need. From guided Vortex, individual and group hikes - L’Auberge’s partnership with The Hike House ensures each guest will experience their “Sedona moment.”

Lodge at Tiburon | Tiburon, CA

Nestled at the tip of the scenic Tiburon Peninsula on the San Francisco Bay, Lodge at Tiburon offers plenty of nearby hikes and trails for guests to explore and celebrate National Take a Hike Day. Trail and hike lovers can enjoy and explore Mt. Livermore, an exhilarating hike that provides visitors with magnificent views of Marin County, San Francisco and the famed Golden Gate bridge. Lodge at Tiburon is a charming resort style property, creating an ideal hotel home base and jumping point for exploring the many trails and hikes in Northern California.

The Mansion at Casa Madrona | Sausalito, CA

Located in the seaside community of Sausalito, The Mansion is also right around the corner from one of the most unique areas in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, the Marin Headlands. Guests can enjoy a luxurious getaway at The Mansion and have the chance to celebrate National Take a Hike Day and explore the headlands. Covering various types hiking and trails, the headlands also offer astonishing views of the Northern California coastline and San Francisco. Located hillside in Northern California’s beautiful Sausalito, The Mansion has been updated and perfected by a world-renowned design team seamlessly pairing cutting-edge technology, the finest amenities, and brilliant views of the Richardson Bay and the San Francisco skyline.

MIDWEST & EAST COAST

Twin Farms - Barnard, Vermont

Twin Farms, the Relais & Chateaux property and only five star resort in Barnard, Vermont situated on 300 acres of lush meadowlands offers a perfect hiking experience. Explore the forest, meadows and ponds by foot independently or request a guide with the miles of groomed trails, hills and views that invite moderate or strenuous recreation in the verdant forest. Request to have your lunch packed to enjoy a gourmet picnic while exploring the hidden groves of the property.

Mission Point Resort, Mackinac Island, MI

About Hike: Mackinac Island boasts over 70 miles of hiking and biking on just 3.8 square miles of land. With more than 80% of the island being protected as a State Park, Mackinac Island offers some of the most beautiful vistas in Michigan. Trails are offered in a combination of both paved roadways and more rugged natural trails for the more adventurous. Hike to one of the most famous and photographed spots on Mackinac Island, Arch Rock. This geological wonder a natural limestone arch formed during the Nipissing post-glacial period when high Lake Huron levels and wave action created openings in the rock. The views from Arch Rock are dramatic. Sweeping views of Lake Huron and Canada make this a great place to enjoy.

Set on 18 acres of lakefront property on the east end of where this special tale takes place, where Lake Huron meets Lake Michigan, lies the 239 room Mission Point Resort. Ideal for families, honeymooners, friends and groups, the Great Lakes icon embraces the best of the destination’s past while incorporating today’s twists on the classics.

The Lodge at Glendorn, Bradford, PA

Glendorn offers more than 1,500 acres of vast trail systems covering the entire grounds, winding its way up and down hills for the more adventurous hiker. For those wishing for a more leisure stroll, there are many trails along the valley floor. The activities staff at Glendorn prepare guests on one of the hundreds of miles of trails within the Allegheny National Forest, Allegheny State Park, or Ellicottville region. Trails for beginners or guests wanting to include Jill and Skipper Lake Stroll, Robber’s Nest, and Spring Trail. The most difficult trails available on property include Hideout Hill (3.2 miles on steep dirt roads and trails) and Cherry Path (4.5 on steep trails).

The Lodge at Glendorn is a tranquil 1,500-acre estate secluded in rural Pennsylvania surrounded by wild life and natural beauty, where life slows down and the simple pleasures can be enjoyed. The Relais & Chateaux and Orivs endorsed property offers luxurious accommodations, fine dining and world-class activities designed in the style of the great family “camps.” The original house was constructed for a multi-generational family, the Dorn’s, in the 1930s; the property expanded with twelve enchanting cabins secluded in the woodlands that surround the lodge in the 1930s and 1940s for visiting family and friends. The spacious, peaceful cabins are reached by charming footbridges are rushing streams. With a rich history and endless activity options including trap and skeet shooting, fly fishing, kayaking, hunting, cross country skiing, Jeep tours, bonfires and much more.

FUEL UP

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