Winning the West

WINNING THE WEST

7 PLACES WEST OF THE ROCKIES THAT WILL WIN YOU OVER

When we dream of vacationing we usually envision a miraculous beach, outdoor adventures, and the stunning wonders of the world. And tied to these dreams are some mental roadblocks: flying across the globe will drain the bank, work won’t let you and the kids can’t come. Blast past those roadblocks with these sensational vacation spots west of the rocky mountains, seven places in your own country that the whole world should see.

1. Yosemite National Park, CA

“Yosemite Valley, to me, is always a sunrise, a glitter of green and golden wonder in a vast edifice of stone and space.” Ansel Adams

You may have missed your chance last year to see the impressive park when it temporarily closed its doors due the government shutdown in 2013. However, 2014 will give way to the 150th year of Yosemite National Park, which also gives way to an incredible vacation spot. From the majestic mountains, valley floor, world renowned Half-Dome, and not to mention the brilliant waterfalls, you will find plenty to do and plenty to see in this awe-inspiring trip.

2. Lake Powell, UT & AZ

Grab your jet skis and boat as you gear up for a tour through the crystal water and red rock of Lake Powell. Here you will find the perfect getaway for your family as you water ski between some of the world’s most beautiful scenery. Whether it be on a houseboat, or just camping, you will find enough here to fill up your thrill tankfor the whole year.

3. Central Coast, CA

Stretching from Ventura County (North of Los Angeles) all the way to Santa Clara County (South of San Francisco) lies 350 miles of coastal beach towns that hug the historic Highway 1. Four major regions including Ventura, Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, and Monterey make up this dream vacation. Giving you anything from sun and saltwater to ancient castles to legendary farmers markets, you’ll find plenty to do as you glide the coast. End your trip in the north with the spirited Santa Cruz. Here you’ll spend your days kayaking, zip-lining, and touching sharks at the Seymour Marine Discovery Center. Central Coast, CA lets you have it all, so don’t wait to live up your getaway dreams among these staggering scenic cities.

4. Sedona, AZ

A beautiful town nestled in red rock and surprisingly lush greenery, Sedona is a place easily remembered. Trails surrounding the town wind along streams, and provide a cool and rejuvenating escape. Birds and butterflies abound in certain seasons.

5. Three Sisters Wilderness, OR

Western Oregon contains the frontier landscape that gives the Western United States its rich, wild, and beautiful reputation. The Three Sisters (North, South, and Middle) all rise above 10,000 feet, and create a breathtaking vista no matter which direction you’re seeing them from. The protected area around them provides more than 250 miles of trail through dense Douglas fir, hemlock, pine, alpine meadows and mountain lakes.

6. Sun Valley, ID

Want the Hollywood ski town without the cost or lines? Enter Sun Valley, ID. The outdoorsy feel in summer will blossom you into biking, rafting, hiking, and eating back all those calories with delicious food. Moving into the winter months will find you strapped to your skis as you glide down the mountains. You won’t miss a moment as you awe at the scenery and spend much needed time getting that fresh air you’ve missed all year.

7. Olympic National Park, WA

Captivating forests, vast ecosystems and a variety of amazing views and experiences make this a destination to dream about. It offers a million acres to explore, including glacier-capped mountains, old-growth evergreen rainforests, and incredible coastline.

So pack your bags my friends, because with these tantalizing trips you are about to have the vacation of your lifetime. Whether it be that relaxing weekend or that rushing adventure, the west is calling, and you must go.