10 of the best low-impact U.S. adventures

The Grand Canyon, the Napa Valley, New Orleans — the United States' biggest draws need little in the way of introduction, having long captured imaginations across the globe. But in some ways, big isn't always best, at least where carbon footprints are concerned — and there are ways to take in the country's greatest hits without the correspondingly great environmental cost. From kayaking the Everglades to going electric in Washington, DC, here's how you can tread lightly while still enjoying the very best of the US.

1. Ride the rails through the Rockies

It’s all about the views on the Rocky Mountaineer train’s two-day Rockies to the Red Rocks route, which begins in sun-baked Moab, Utah and winds west towards Denver, Colorado — gateway to the Rocky Mountains. Look out the glass-dome windows as you trace the Colorado River, watching canyons, peaks and hoodoos zip by. Overnight, you’ll stop in Glenwood Springs, a city cradled between vertiginous summits that’s known for its bubbling hot springs.

2.  Kayak the Everglades

Eschew the typical motor-powered boat tour across Florida’s 1.5 million-acre wetlands for a gentler experience. Paddling a kayak through the thousands of islands scattered among the mangroves and sawgrass, you’ll get the chance to spot dolphins, alligators, sea turtles and manatees. Extend your visit with an expert-led kayak camping trip, lasting between two and four days. 

3.  Paddle on Lake Michigan

Designed for boaters and paddlers, Lake Michigan State Water Trail is a 1,638-mile water route, complete with campsites, that traces the outline of Lake Michigan, the only Great Lake located entirely in the US. Get to grips with stand-up paddleboarding with Chicago-based North Avenue Beach, which offers a 90-minute lesson covering the basics. Alternatively, hire a board to explore solo. 

4.  Take a hike through Yosemite

Most visitors to California’s epic national park tour by car. But on Wildland Trekking’s seven-day Wonders of Yosemite trip, you’ll explore a high country of alpine lakes, rivers and meadows without leaving a trace, sleeping under a blanket of stars and experiencing this icon at its most remote.

5.  Run in New York City

Forget the yellow taxis — sightsee in New York by pulling on your trainers. Offering a twist on the usual walking tour, Go! Running Tours has guided jogs that take in major sights — and cover serious ground. The 10-kilometre (6.2-mile) Iconic Architecture, for example, will have you pounding the pavements past the New York Public Library, The Plaza hotel, Carnegie Hall and Times Square.

6.  Swim around Hawaii

Hawaii’s Big Island is one of the most dramatic natural corners of the US, home to lava fields and tropical forests encircled by blue sea. SwimTrek offers a seven-day swimming tour of the island, taking in Garden Eel Cove — famed for its manta rays — and Mahai’ula Bay, home to turtles, which you can watch from a respectful distance.

7.  Saddle up in the Grand Canyon 

There’s something magical about seeing the Grand Canyon on horseback, observing its shifting reds and browns from a slow-travel vantage point. Equitours’ six-day Grand Canyon Winter Pastures ride operates in the sheltered microclimate of the North Rim, where the weather is mild. Sure-footed quarter horses will keep you feeling secure, while campsite grill suppers will fuel you after a long day in the saddle. 

8.  Float over the Napa Valley

Powered by relatively clean-burning propane, a hot air balloon ride comes with a footprint far smaller than that of a scenic aircraft flight — plus extra thrills. With its photogenic landscapes of vineyards and peaks, the Napa Valley is the perfect place to try it. Get a unique perspective far from the cellar doors, then, post-flight, enjoy a tasting of local Cabernet Sauvignon. 

9.  Go electric in Washington, DC

Tick off the greatest hits of the US capital, from the White House to the Smithsonian, on a tour in an electric car. With stops en route, you’ll get to stretch legs and explore, while insider tips from your guide will make you keen to return for further discovery. 

10. Pedal around New Orleans

Get a flavour of the Big Easy on a two-wheel tour through the French Quarter, along to Lafayette Cemetery and on to the Bayou Saint John, where locals kayak and paddleboard. Sounding like more effort than you’re game for? Electric bike tours are also available, giving an extra boost as you explore NOLA’s atmospheric streets.