10. Climb Kilimanjaro
Rising imperiously above the sweeping savannah of Africa is Mt. Kilimanjaro, one of the world’s seven summits. REI Adventures offers treks to the top of this peak, where the splendor of Africa’s plains spread out before you. The area is also home to an incredibly diverse array of wildlife that can’t be found anywhere else in the world. Although it’s called “Everyman’s Everest”, only 40 to 50 per cent of those who set out actually make the 20,000-foot ascent to the top (altitude sickness can strike anyone). Whether you summit or not, it is an experience and feat that’ll give you bragging rights for life.
11. Sandboard Some Dunes
Four hours south of Denver sits Great Sand Dunes National Park, home to a growing pastime that’s perfect for adventurers of all ages: sand boarding. The Great Sand Dunes have ample places to try your hand at this snowboarding alternative. Get some exercise without having to endure below freezing temperatures. Up the adventure factor by heading to Nicaragua, where sandboarding down a volcano has become a popular sport.
11. The Pacific Crest Trail
Unless you have some serious time off, you probably won’t be able to hike or ride the entirety of the 2,600 mile Pacific Crest Trail from Mexico to Canada, but you can definitely drop in or out at several points along the way depending on your energy, schedule or ambition. Stretching throughout 25 national forests and 7 national parks, the PCT is an endurance trial with lush natural forests and jaw-dropping mountain views. Armchair travelers not up to the task can just read Cheryl Strayed’s book, Wild.
