Some travelers love a laid-back resort where they can lounge by the pool all day, while others chase adventure wherever they go. If you fall into the latter camp, or love a little bit of both, here are five places to visit in 2026 for a more thrill-seeking getaway.

Via ferrata routes were developed primarily in Italy during World War I to allow soldiers to traverse steep mountain passes. Metal rungs and cables were drilled directly into the rock so troops could move along exposed cliffs more safely. Today, many of these original routes still exist, reinforced with fixed steel cables that climbers clip into using a carabiner for added protection.

Today, via ferrata is considered an exhilarating adventure sport, allowing climbers to traverse dramatic mountain landscapes in countries like Italy, Austria, Switzerland, and even the United States. Opting for an Italian via ferrata offers a more historical experience, making it especially appealing to history buffs.

For thrill-seekers, the Mürren Via Ferrata in Switzerland stands out as one of the most intense routes, featuring steep vertical sections where climbers are truly suspended along the side of the mountain. Not all via ferrata routes are this extreme, but tackling one with the Swiss Alps as your backdrop delivers a once-in-a-lifetime experience amid some of the world’s most beautiful scenery.

The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) is a vast protected region in northern Minnesota, located along the Canadian border, featuring an extensive network of canoe routes. According to official sources, the area stretches roughly 150 miles and covers approximately 1.1 million acres, with over 1,100 lakes and more than 1,200 miles of canoe routes.

Travelers can canoe between interconnected waterways while camping on designated sites along the shores and portage routes. This is a fully off-the-grid experience, making a map and compass essential, as there is little to no cell service. The BWCAW offers a true backcountry adventure where visitors can fully immerse themselves in nature.

While the area is generally safe, wildlife awareness is important. Black bears do inhabit the region and may be attracted to improperly stored food, so securing meals and snacks is essential. Other wildlife, such as wolves and moose, are present but normally avoid humans.

If you’re looking for a thrill-seeking adventure that starts with your hotel, the Skylodge Adventure Suites in Cusco, Peru, deliver an unforgettable experience. This stay combines a via ferrata climb, like the one mentioned above, with a one-of-a-kind overnight experience suspended roughly 1,300 ft above the ground.

After reaching your capsule, guests can move between pods for dinner and even relax in a sky-high jacuzzi. The experience is often compared to seeing the world from a condor’s nest, offering breathtaking, bird’s-eye views of the Sacred Valley below.

One of the highlights is having the opportunity to zip line down after your stay! Adding in an extra thrill!

Mount Rainier is the tallest volcano in Washington State, rising to 14,410 feet (4,392 meters), and is one of the most prominent peaks in the United States. The national park is filled with breathtaking hikes and is often referred to as the “Switzerland of the United States” due to its alpine landscapes. In spring, wildflower meadows blanket the lower elevations, while snow can be found near the summit year-round thanks to its high elevation.

Reaching the summit typically takes 2–3 days via standard routes, allowing time for acclimatization and weather windows. Despite being a popular climbing destination, many attempts do not reach the peak due to rapidly changing weather conditions. High winds, whiteout visibility, extreme cold, and sudden storms are common on Mount Rainier and can force climbers to turn back for safety.

Mountaineering on Mount Rainier is not for the faint of heart and requires proper training, preparation, and knowledge of the sport. Going with experienced guides who know the mountain well is strongly recommended, ensuring a safer yet still exhilarating experience.

Zion National Park is known for its vast canyons and striking red rock formations carved over millions of years. Canyoneering adds an exciting dimension to hiking, combining rappelling down ropes with navigating narrow slot canyons. When water levels are just right, adventurers may even slide down natural rock chutes that have been smoothed over time by flowing water.

As with other extreme outdoor activities, going with experienced guides is strongly recommended, especially for beginners. Weather conditions can change quickly, and flash floods are a real risk, making canyoneering an activity where preparation and local knowledge are essential. Exhilarating and immersive, canyoneering offers a thrilling way to experience Zion from a completely different perspective.

Every thrill-seeking adventure deserves to be documented, whether for social media or your own personal photo book. Lugging bulky camera equipment into these environments can make capturing the moment difficult, which is why shooting with an iPhone or GoPro is often the ideal choice.

With the right setup, you don’t have to sacrifice quality, pairing your iPhone or GoPro with SANDMARC gear ensures professional-level results wherever the adventure takes you. Both filters below are great for adjusting to harsh landscapes and varying weather conditions.

Many of the activities mentioned above carry higher levels of risk due to weather conditions or the technical nature of the experience. As a reminder, always take proper precautions and educate yourself on the risks involved before participating in any adventure. Be sure to listen carefully to safety briefings at the start of each excursion, they’re designed to help ensure your experience is memorable for the right reasons.

If you’re not experienced or feel unsure at any point, choosing a qualified guide is strongly recommended. Having expert support can make the difference between a stressful situation and a safe, exciting adventure you’ll never forget!

These five experiences are guaranteed to get your adrenaline pumping. From the volcanic terrain of Mount Rainier to the Swiss Alps in Switzerland, adventure can be found on any trip, you just have to seek it out and be willing to take the leap!