The most popular luxury destinations for honeymoons are Europe, the Caribbean and Hawaii, according to data compiled by TheKnot. Newlyweds who enjoy the outdoors probably would not refuse one of these spots, but prefer somewhere they can both soak up nature and create memories they can tell their grandchildren. Here are three adventurous ideas to consider.
Jackson Hole, Wyoming
This is one of those destinations that requires a month to take in everything the area has to offer. But a carefully planned itinerary will ensure a honeymoon you’ll be talking about for years to come.
Day one can start with whitewater rafting down the Snake River. You’ll have the option of paddling or just sitting in the middle of the boat to enjoy the ride. Jackson Hole Whitewater was voted the top rafting company by locals, while Mad River Boat Trips and Lewis & Clark Expeditions are two more high-ranked options.
Day two can be your horseback riding adventure. Guided tours take you through some of the most scenic areas western Wyoming has to offer, including trips from Snow King Mountain that overlook the town. Jackson Hole Horseback Riding and A-OK Horseback Rides are two of the top companies in the area to book your tours.
It comes down to personal preference from there as far as the remaining itinerary. Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks are both less than 40 miles away. There is dog sledding and skiing if you happen to go in the winter time. The Green, Salt, and New Fork Rivers provide more than enough fishing options. Keep in mind the best times to visit Jackson Hole and avoid huge crowds are the months of April, May, September and October.
10,000 Lakes For Love
Minnesota is the perfect state for couples who love to be on the water and enjoy nature as a whole. Now it’s just a matter of trying to condense what could easily extend to a month-long vacation into a one-week romantic honeymoon.
Lakecrest Resort in Detroit Lake is an ideal honeymoon destination. You’ll stay in a knotty-pine, lake-front cabin that provides gorgeous scenery and beaches for an early morning swim. Paddleboats, hydro-bikes, and fishing boats are provided as part of your paid package. Bird-watching is a common activity in the area because of the presence of over 250 species, including the pileated woodpecker and eastern bluebird.
Grand Cottages in Willmar is a great winter resort for ice fishing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling. There are several lodges near Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness on the northern border of Minnesota. Of course, canoeing and fishing are what the area is most known for, but it’s also an ideal spot for hunters. Waterfowl and various types of ducks are common, along with big game like white-tailed deer, moose, and even black bears. You’ll both need to take a hunter education course before the trip, and comply with all state and federal regulations while there.
The Last Frontier
What could possibly be more romantic than watching a 12:47 a.m. sunset in Fairbanks in late June, only to watch the sun rise two hours later? The midnight sun, along with the most unique fishing and hunting opportunities possible of any U.S. state, makes Alaska a no-brainer honeymoon spot.
The Afognak Wilderness Lodge in Kodiak is great for whale watching, salmon fishing, and deep-sea fishing. The Aurora Borealis Lodge in Fairbanks is true to its name as being a top destination to potentially see the natural phenomenon of red and green lights in the sky. The Talkeetna Alaskan Resort is just south of Denali (Mount McKinley) and perfect for those who want to experience zip lining and flightseeing.
Alaska.org recommends traveling to the state between early May and mid-September to experience long days and mild temperatures.
