There is no shortage of epic outdoor opportunities, but which states offer the best? Credit: Pixabay / NZKGB
If you live for fresh air, scenic trails, and weekends that start with a backpack or a pair of skis, the U.S. has no shortage of states where the outdoors is more than just a backdrop but a way of life. From alpine peaks to desert canyons, rolling forests to rugged coastlines, some states stand out for their access to adventure, natural beauty, and outdoor culture. Whether you’re into skiing, hiking, mountain biking, paddling, climbing, hunting, or simply soaking in the views, these states offer something for every kind of outdoor enthusiast.
The list comes from SmileHub which compared all 50 states across three key dimensions of environmental quality, outdoor activity access, and economic impact and job opportunities. Those dimensions were then evaluated using 18 relevant metrics, including ski facilities, miles of hiking trails, outdoor gear stores, camping spots, and the cost of hunting and fishing licenses. Each metric was graded on a 100-point scale, with a score of 100 representing the best conditions for outdoor enthusiasts.
Below are the top 11 states for outdoor enthusiasts. See the full report to see where all 50 states ranked.
#11 California – Total Score: 51.28
California is a top choice for outdoor lovers thanks to its year-round access to beaches, mountains, deserts, and forests—all within a day’s drive. Credit: skicalifornia.org
#10 Oregon – Total Score: 53.60
Oregon is a paradise for outdoor lovers, with its diverse landscapes ranging from rugged coastlines and lush forests to high desert and snow-covered mountains. Credit: smalltownwashington.com
#9 Wyoming – Total Score:Â 53.79
Wyoming is a paradise for outdoor lovers thanks to its wide-open landscapes, world-class national parks, and endless opportunities for hiking, fishing, climbing, and wildlife watching. Credit: Chung Hu
#8 Maine – Total Score: 54.84
Maine is a haven for outdoor lovers thanks to its rugged coastline, dense forests, winter sports, and miles of trails that offer everything from sea kayaking to backcountry hiking. Credit: The Manual/Jamie Walter
#7 South Dakota – Total Score: 55.17
South Dakota offers outdoor lovers a mix of dramatic landscapes, from the granite peaks of the Black Hills to the otherworldly formations of Badlands National Park, all with wide-open spaces and fewer crowds. Credit: backpacker.com
#6 Vermont – Total Score: 57.21
Vermont is a haven for outdoor lovers with its year-round access to scenic hiking, biking, and some of the best skiing in the East, all set against a backdrop of rolling green mountains and vibrant small towns. Credit: Vermont.com
#5 Utah – Total Score: 57.24
Utah is a paradise for outdoor lovers thanks to its five stunning national parks, world-class skiing, and endless opportunities for hiking, biking, and climbing across its diverse landscapes. Credit: Utah.com
#4 Washington – Total Score:Â 57.90
Washington is prime for outdoor lovers, offering everything from glacier-capped peaks and lush rainforests to rugged coastlines and world-class hiking, skiing, and paddling. Credit: U.S. Forest Service
#3 Colorado –Â Total Score:Â 61.96
Colorado is a top choice for outdoor lovers thanks to its mix of towering mountains, ski resorts, endless trails, and a culture that embraces adventure year-round. Credit: Silverton Mountain
#2 Alaska –Â Total Score:Â 63.06
Alaska is a paradise for outdoor lovers, offering vast wilderness, towering peaks, and endless opportunities for adventure like hiking, fishing, kayaking, and wildlife watching in some of the most untouched landscapes in the nation. Credit: Alaska.org
#1 Montana –Â Total Score:Â 63.24
Montana stands out for outdoor lovers thanks to its vast wilderness, uncrowded trails, and iconic landscapes like Glacier and Yellowstone National Parks. Credit: Big Sky Resort
No matter your outdoor passion—whether it’s skiing deep powder, hiking rugged trails, paddling wild rivers, or simply soaking in scenic views—there’s a U.S. state that fits the bill. From the towering peaks of Colorado to the vast wilderness of Alaska and the diverse landscapes of Utah and California, the country is filled with places that invite adventure year-round. Wherever you land, the best state for outdoor enthusiasts is the one that keeps you inspired, active, and always looking forward to your next trip outside.
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