Summer 2025 by salvadorepublishing

LEGENDS SMALL TOWNS

LIVE THE LIFE YOU LOVE , Build the Business You Believe In.

In Santa Fe County, business and lifestyle don’t compete—they complement each other. Whether you’re inspired by the region’s natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, or spirit of innovation, this is a place where your passion can fuel real impact.

Here, you’ll find the resources, connections, and support to help your business grow—alongside a community that values sustainability, creativity, and quality of life. Build more than a business. Build a life you love—in Santa Fe County.

Small Towns, Big Adventures

Summer is here, and it’s the perfect time to escape to the hidden gems where small-town charm meets big-time outdoor thrills.

Local legends

Fred Smith is dedicated to the waters of Tampa Bay, Jake and Lindsay Petty are exploring the vast landscapes of America, one trail at a time.

Summer Hot Spots

Whether you're planning a weekend road trip or looking for that perfect campﬁre view, these destinations offer unforgettable summer moments just waiting to be made.

Salvadore Publishing Group, LLC

13575 58th Street North, #133

Clearwater, FL 33760

www.salvadorepublishing.com www.AdventureOutdoorsMagazine.com

EXECUTIVE STAFF

JAKE WATTAM | Chief Executive Officer

JUSTIN BAKER | Director of Operations

SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTOR

ANNE PETTY

EDITORIAL TEAM

KIMBERLY PISANO

SALES, STRATEGY AND CLIENT SERVICES

Justin Baker

Frederick Smith

Brett Pinkerton

Kristen Schultz

Heidi Hemenway

Welcome to the Summer issue of Adventure Outdoors Magazine!

This season, we're shining a spotlight on the heart and soul of the outdoors—the local legends who turn everyday landscapes into epic adventures. From backwoods trails to secret ﬁshing holes, this issue is a celebration of small towns, big stories, and the passionate people who keep the spirit of adventure alive in their own backyards.

Meet the unsung heroes who’ve built a life around the land: the lifelong hikers who know every ridge and ravine, the anglers who pass down river wisdom like family heirlooms, and the outﬁtters who’ve turned quiet corners of the map into must-visit destinations. These are the folks who prove that you don’t need a passport to ﬁnd wild beauty—just a good pair of boots and a love for the land.

We’ll take you to places where adventure is a way of life: from the Appalachian hollers to high-desert towns, where every trailhead has a story and every campfire spark community. You’ll find gear tips, getaway guides, and profiles that prove the best adventures often start with a neighbor’s recommendation.

So, whether you’re revisiting a hometown haunt or discovering a hidden gem off the beaten path, we hope this issue inspires you to seek out the extraordinary in the everyday.

Here’s to chasing big dreams in small places.

Happy adventuring!

The Adventure Outdoors Team

FROSTBURG,

MARYLAND | GLENWOOD, MINNESOTA | AUBURN-OPELIKA, ALABAMA | BISHOP, CALIFORNIA

SMAL L TOWNS

Big Adventure

SUMMER IS HERE, AND IT’S THE PERFECT TIME TO ESCAPE TO THE HIDDEN GEMS WHERE SMALL-TOWN CHARM MEETS BIG-TIME OUTDOOR THRILLS.

BISHOP, CALIFORNIA KNOWNFORITS WORLDCLASSB OULDERING SCENE

This season, we’re spotlighting destinations across the U.S. where adventure is never far from home. Whether you're hiking rugged peaks, kayaking crystal-clear waters, or simply soaking in breathtaking views, these towns offer the perfect backdrop for your summer getaway.

FROSTBURG, MARYLAND SUMMERTHEPERFECTESCAPE FOROUTDOOR LOVERS.

Afteradayofadventure, explorethevibranthistoric district for a taste of local ﬂavor and charm. Frostburg,Maryland

FROSTBURG, MARYLAND

Gateway to the Appalachians

Nestled in the heart of Western Maryland, Frostburg is the perfect summer escape for outdoor lovers.

The Great Allegheny Passage, a 150-mile scenic trail stretching from Pittsburgh to Cumberland, runs right through town, offering prime routes for biking and hiking. For water enthusiasts, Rocky Gap State Park is just a short drive away, where you can kayak, canoe, or ﬁsh for bass and trout. After a day of adventure, explore the vibrant historic district for a taste of local ﬂavor and charm.

GLENWOOD, MINNESOTA

A Lakeside Retreat

Summer in Glenwood means fun on the water. Located in Pope County, this lakeside town is a paradise for ﬁshing, boating, and paddleboarding at the Glenwood Lakes Area. If you prefer land-based adventures, enjoy horseback riding on scenic trails that wind through rolling hills and wildlife-ﬁlled landscapes. Whether you're camping under the stars or enjoying a peaceful lakeside retreat, Glenwood is a must-visit destination for nature lovers.

FOR

THOSE

SEEKING A BLEND OF OUTDOOR ADVENTURE AND SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY,

AUBURN-OPELIKA

IS THE PERFECT DESTINATION.

AUBURN-OPELIKA, ALABAMA Trails, Lakes, and Southern Charm

For those seeking a blend of outdoor adventure and Southern hospitality, AuburnOpelika is the perfect destination. The region boasts miles of scenic trails for hiking and mountain biking, including the picturesque Chewacla State Park, where you can explore wooded paths and stunning waterfalls. Lake Martin, one of Alabama’s largest lakes, offers endless opportunities for water sports, from kayaking to ﬁshing. And for those looking to add some thrills, the area’s rock formations and trails provide great climbing and outdoor challenges. Whether you're hitting the trails, paddling the

lakes, or enjoying the local charm, AuburnOpelika promises an adventure-ﬁlled summer.

BISHOP, CALIFORNIA

A High Desert Playground

Set against the rugged beauty of the Eastern Sierra Nevada, Bishop is a dream summer destination. Known for its world-class bouldering scene, climbers ﬂock to Bishop’s famous spots like the Buttermilks and Happy Boulders. Hike the stunning alpine trails around Long Lake and Bishop Creek Basin or explore summer activities like ﬁshing and mountain biking. With its year-round outdoor appeal, Bishop offers adventures for every season.

These small towns prove that big adventures don’t need big cities. Whether you’re hiking in Maryland, kayaking in Minnesota, chasing waterfalls in Alabama, or bouldering in California, these destinations promise unforgettable summer experiences. So pack your gear, hit the road, and explore the best of smalltown adventure this season.

Where will your next adventure take you?

HIDDEN BETWEEN BETWEEN PINE FORESTS AND MILES OF RED CLAY ROADS

CHEWACLA STATE PARK

IIn East Alabama, hidden between pine forests and miles of red clay roads, Auburn-Opelika offers an unexpected blend of small-town charm and rugged outdoor adventure. Whether you enjoy pedaling scenic gravel backroads, climbing waterfalls, or honing your bowhunting skills, this is a place that's easy to get to and even easier to love.

For mountain bikers, Chewacla State Park is a gold mine. The park’s single-track system, maintained and expanded by Central Alabama Mountain Pedalers (CAMP), offers everything from approachable twists and turns to downright gnarly technical features. Riders can choose to take a casual and restful ride on the Lakeside Connector or send it through rock gardens and jumps on the double black diamond Forbidden Zone.

[THIS IS A PLACE

THAT'S EASY TO GET TO AND EVEN EASIER TO LOVE.

Just beyond Chewacla’s pines lies a network of red-dirt backroads winding through the scenic Alabama countryside – the same kind that helped inspire the phrase “Sweet Home Alabama” (with a little help from Lynyrd Skynyrd). These scenic stretches of countryside are perfect for gravel cyclists, endurance athletes, or your average Joe who’s just searching for a good time. These quiet, rolling, and challenging byways are the reason more riders each year are attending events like the Opelika Okey Dokey and Standard Deluxe Dirt Road Century. The best part? In just minutes, riders go from the heart of a historic downtown to rugged, pine-lined trails that push their stam ina to the limit.

If your kind of adventure leans toward technical skill rather than physical endurance, make sure to visit the Spring Villa Archery Park. Set on the historic grounds of the nearby Spring Villa Mansion, lies a free-to-use facility with 12 covered bays, raised platforms to simulate tree stand hunting, and a 20-lane 3D archery course with 60 possible shots. Just make sure to bring your hunting or ﬁshing license with you to prove you are a qualiﬁed and somewhat experienced bowman.

Beyond these rugged options, Auburn-Opelika is a hub for golf, pickleball, disc golf, and diverse wildlife. What truly sets this destination apart is its remarkable accessibility. Gravel routes are minutes from local breweries. Trailheads are a short drive from ﬁve diamond hotels. And, wherever your adventure takes place, there is always a good story, a cold drink, and a welcoming community. Come ride, run, or explore a place that is as down to earth as you are.

ANDERSON COUNTY, TN

NESTLED IN THE MOUNTAINS OF EAST TENNESSE

is an outdoor lover’s paradise. If you like off-roading, hiking or mountain biking or all of the above, you will love Anderson County, Tennessee.

Windrock Park is a must-visit for outdoor adventure this fall. This 73,000 acre privately owned off-road park offers 350 miles of trails for any type of offhighway vehicles, hiking, trail running and mountain biking. The highest elevation, called "The Flag Pole" at Cross Mountain is 3,534 feet and the view is spectacular!!! There is a variety of lodging available from campgrounds to cabins to hotels. There are event yurts.

But that is not all, for those who prefer a mix of history and nature, add Norris Dam State Park to your list. The park surrounds Norris Dam, a New Deal-era project that controlled ﬂooding and boosted the economy of the previously depressed Appalachian community. The park offers over 20 miles of hiking and biking trails that wind through forests and along Norris Lake’s shoreline.

The park’s natural beauty is complemented by educational opportunities at the Lenoir Museum, which showcases the dam’s construction, the area’s cultural and natural history. It is also the perfect place to rent a kayak and hit the water.

Lastly, Haw Ridge is a mountain biker’s dream with a challenging network of trails that twist and turn through dense woodlands. With its technical singletrack trails, steep climbs, and fast descents, Haw Ridge is perfect for those looking to push their limits. Hikers can also enjoy the serene environment, with trails offering access to picturesque views of Melton Hill Lake.

Anderson County’s mountains beckon adventurers of all types. Whether you’re tearing through trails on an UTV, trekking up a steep mountain path, or racing down a hill on your bike, this area has something for everyone.

LOCALLEGENDS

FRED SMITH

• JAKE AND LINDSAY PETTY

“WE

LOVE FINDING HIDDEN GEMS— THOSE KNOWNLESSERHIKES THAT AREN’T ON EVERY TOURIST’S RADAR.” -Lindsay

Zion National Park in Utah is one of the most visited national parks year after year. It’s a true geographic phenomenon.

“

FREDSMITH

MASTER OF THE WATERS OF TAMPA BAY

FRED’S LOVE FOR FISHING BEGAN AS A YOUNG BOY, BUT OVER THE DECADES, HE HAS DEVELOPED UNIQUE TECHNIQUES THAT HAVE ALLOWED HIM TO ADAPT TO THE CHANGING WATERS OF TAMPA BAY.”

Fred Smith is more than just a ﬁsherman. To those in the Tampa Bay area, he’s a living legend, known for his deep understanding of the waters and the way he connects with nature. Having spent over 40 years honing his craft, Fred is recognized as one of the region’s most seasoned anglers, known for his unmatched knowledge of the bay’s tides, currents, and ecosystems.

Fred’s love for fishing began as a young boy, but over the decades, he has developed unique techniques that have allowed him to adapt to the changing waters of Tampa Bay. One of his most notable techniques, especially during the summer months, is his use of the “tide shift.” He explains that fishing around the Tampa Bay area requires a constant adjustment to the tides. “The key is knowing when the fish are active,” Fred says, “and the fish are most active when the tides are shifting, usually in the early morning or late afternoon.”

Summer fishing presents its own challenges, especially with the hotter temperatures and increased boat traffic. But Fred has mastered the art of fishing during the early morning hours, when the bay is still calm and the fish are more likely to bite. He uses live bait—such as shrimp or small mullet—to target species like snook, redfish, and trout. These fish are more active in the cooler hours, making early mornings ideal for catching them.

Fred also considers the subtleties of water temperature and salinity, which ﬂuctuate with the heat of summer. His boat is equipped with state-of-the-art sonar technology, which he uses to track ﬁsh movements and locate their preferred feeding zones. But it’s Fred’s deep, intuitive knowledge of the bay that truly sets him apart. He can look at the water and know exactly where to cast his line.

“The real magic of ﬁshing,” Fred says, “is learning how to read the water. When you’ve spent as much time as I have on these waters, you begin to understand its language.”

For Fred, fishing is more than just a hobby—it’s a connection to the natural world that is deeply fulfilling. His legendary status isn’t just based on his catch rate, but on the respect he has for the environment and the way he’s passed down his knowledge to younger generations of fishermen.

LINDSAYJAKEANDPETTY

HIKING ACROSS AMERICA’S BEST TRAILS

SOME OF THEIR FAVORITE SUMMER HIKING DESTINATIONS INCLUDE ZION NATIONAL PARK IN UTAH.”

While Fred Smith is dedicated to the waters of Tampa Bay, Jake and Lindsay Petty are exploring the vast landscapes of America, one trail at a time. This dynamic duo, who have been hiking together for over a decade, have made it their mission to discover the best hiking spots across the country. From the rugged peaks of Colorado to the lush forests of the Paciﬁc Northwest, Jake and Lindsay are always on the lookout for the next great adventure.

Their passion for hiking started in their hometown of Asheville, North Carolina, where they discovered the stunning beauty of the Appalachian Mountains. “We started with short, local hikes, but soon found ourselves drawn to more remote and challenging trails,” says Jake. “It’s about pushing ourselves while experiencing nature in its purest form.”

What sets Jake and Lindsay apart from other outdoor enthusiasts is their commitment to exploring both

well-known and lesser-traveled trails. “We love ﬁnding hidden gems—those lesser-known hikes that aren’t on every tourist’s radar,” Lindsay explains. “There’s something incredibly special about walking a trail that few people have experienced.”

For Jake and Lindsay, summer hiking presents both its rewards and challenges. They ﬁnd that summer hikes require careful planning and hydration, especially in the hot, dry conditions of the Southwest or the humid forests of the Southeast. Their go-to summer gear includes lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing, sun protection, and plenty of water. “In summer, you need to plan your hikes around the weather,” Jake says. “We aim to hit the trails early in the morning or late in the evening, when the temperatures are cooler.”

Some of their favorite summer hiking destinations include Zion Na-

tional Park in Utah, where they love the challenge of the Angels Landing Trail, and the Olympic National Park in Washington, where the towering trees and lush green landscapes provide a perfect contrast to the hot, dry desert hikes.

Jake and Lindsay are also advocates for sustainable hiking practices. They believe that it’s essential to leave no trace and always respect the environment. “We’ve seen the effects of overcrowding on some of our favorite trails, so we try to be mindful of our impact,” Lindsay adds.

Together, they’ve traveled to over 30 states, discovering new landscapes, meeting fellow hikers, and building memories along the way. Their love for hiking has transformed them into storytellers, sharing their experiences through a popular blog that inspires others to get outside and explore the wilderness.

SUMMER

HOT SPOTS

When the sun is high and the days are long, it’s time to chase the season’s best outdoor escapes. From hidden swimming holes and epic trailheads to charming small-town getaways, we’ve rounded up the must-visit spots where adventure meets authenticity. Whether you're planning a weekend road trip or looking for that perfect campﬁre view, these destinations offer unforgettable summer moments just waiting to be made. Ready your gear, gather your crew, and dive into the places that make summer sizzle. Stay tuned after this page for more can’tmiss destinations brought to you by our featured adventure-loving partners.

DISCOVER LOS ALAMOS, NEW MEXICO

THE "GATEWAY TO THREE NATIONAL PARKS” HUNDREDS OF TRAILS

Visit Los Alamos, a modern, science town located at the foot of an ancient volcano and the “Gateway to Three National Parks”: Bandelier National Monument, Valles Caldera National Preserve, and Manhattan Project National Historical Park. The city sits atop a mesa with 360-degree views and dozens of hiking trails right from town.

UNLOCK THE SECRETS OF THE ONCE “SECRET CITY” ON A HISTORIC WALKING TOUR

A geological wonder, Valles Caldera National Preserve is one of only seven super volcanoes in the world and designated as an International Dark Sky Park. With over 89,000 acres, it offers opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, stargazing, and ﬁshing.

Bandelier National Monument was home to Ancestral Puebloan people. Climb ladders and imagine life as an ancient cliff dweller, view petroglyphs, hike the park’s expansive trail network, or spot local wildlife, including mule deer, shorthorned lizards, squirrels, and many bird species.

Unlock the secrets of the once “Secret City” on a historic walking tour of Manhattan Project National Historical Park and learn about the groundbreaking science that ended World War II. Christopher Nolan’s Academy Award-winning Oppenheimer has brought new interest to the area since its release in 2023. Get a behind the scenes look of the history that shaped the world. If you’re lucky, you’ll get chosen for the lottery held twice a year to attend the “Behind the Fence” tour.

Additionally, there are 100+ developed trails to explore in Los Alamos County. Outdoor lovers can also enjoy rock climbing, cross-country skiing in winter, trail running, and stunning wildﬂower blooms in spring and summer. Photographers and nature seekers will love the scenic overlooks, quiet piñon-juniper forests, and the chance to spot elk, prairie dogs, or bears. LEARN

FIND ADVENTURE, FEEL THE RHYTHM, EXPLORE THE CREATIVITY

Just 90 minutes from New York City, the Sullivan Catskills is a legendary destination once known as the Borscht Belt, and home of the 1969 Woodstock Music and Art Festival. While warm, friendly hospitality has always been in this area’s DNA, today, a new breed of entrepreneurs and hoteliers focuses on peaceful country tranquility. Over nearly 1,000 square miles, this picturesque county is a collection of charming small towns full of outdoor adventure, extraordinary cuisine, arts and culture, and outstanding accommodations.

The Main Streets are framed by historic former hotels, mercantile, apothecaries, taverns, firehouses, boarding houses turned art and antique galleries, acclaimed restaurants, intriguing small shops, studios, and bookstores. Relive calmer days when the world moved more slowly with the simpler rhythms of rural hamlet life. Relax, browse, and visit the farmers’ markets and country fairs. Hike through seasonal splendor, paddle a kayak, fish world-class streams, and read a book by the fire in a bakery. World Atlas once rated the river town of Narrowsburg as one of the top 12 small towns in the U.S. Don’t miss Barryville, Callicoon, Jeffersonville, Livingston Manor, Mountaindale, Roscoe, or Wurtsboro.

There’s a legendary Monster in these mountains. It’s green, and it lives next to a casino. People like you come from all over the world to challenge it with clubs. It’s the Monster Golf Course at Resorts World Casino in Monticello. Elsewhere, you can hook a monster trout in the legendary Beaverkill River or Willowemoc Creek. Raft the Delaware River and hike in the forests— dozens of trails suit all ﬁtness levels. Track down the 80+ colorful doves on the Sullivan Catskills Dove Trail, a tribute to the 50th anniversary of the Woodstock festival.

THESE SMALL TOWNS ARE “INN” PLACES.

Why go west when you can stay east at an authentic ranch experience that Beth Dutton would love? The Robb Report named White Lake’s Driftwood Ranch— a working horse and cattle ranch with horseback riding, hiking, ﬁshing, and four luxury suites— number 19 of the 50 Most Hotly Anticipated Luxury Hotel Openings for 2025. And the restaurant at Livingston Manor’s The Debruce received a 2024 semiﬁnalist nod from the James Beard Foundation.

Big song and dance. The 1969 Woodstock Music and Arts Fair (held in Bethel) wasn’t small. But it was a town with stores, food, and entertainment. The site has been transformed into Bethel Woods Center for the Arts. You can visit the site, hear the echoes, and then stay for the big-name concerts at the Pavilion (Dave Matthews Band, Luke Bryan, and Avril Lavigne are among the early May-June shows in 2025). Enjoy professional theatre in a barn at Forestburgh Playhouse in the summer months. See an opera lakeside at the Delaware Valley Opera in Lake Huntington. Or hear a classical music festival on

top of a mountain at the Shandelee Music Festival. And there are galleries galore, full of modern makers and artists. Want to try your hand? There are workshops and studios. You can throw a plate, try a tune, or tie a ﬂy. If all the world is a stage, the Sullivan Catskills is in the spotlight.

Dining with extraordinary service, style, and personality. Who are we to argue with the Michelin Guide to Hotels and Dining? They savored spectacular food in a cidery overlooking the Delaware River Valley and a restored small hotel with a wedding barn. You can, too.

From Linguinette to D’Oro Supreme, it’s all Catskill-icious freshness, variety, and ﬂavor. There’s also a Diner Trail, the Good Taste Craft Beverage Trail, and farm markets.

New York’s Sullivan Catskills is the best of all worlds for relaxation and recreation—small and friendly, big on fun and entertainment choices. All are easy to reach and just a short drive apart. You’ll leave refreshed in no small way for a weekend escape or extended stay. And that’s a big deal. To learn more visit SullivanCatskills.com

WELCOME TO BEAUTIFUL CHEROKEE COUNTY, ALABAMA

HOME OF BEAUTIFUL WEISS LAKE

Welcome to beautiful Cherokee County, Alabama, home of beautiful Weiss Lake and some of the most stunning views in Northeast Alabama. We are centrally located in the ABC Triangle (Atlanta, Birmingham, Chattanooga). Whether you are a ﬁshing enthusiast, rock climber, lake admirer, or view fanatic, we’ve got something for you here in Cherokee County.

Weiss Lake is 30,200 acre ﬁshing and recreation lake with Yellow Creek Falls being a favorite destination for boaters and kayakers. It reaches 100-feet in height and tumbles to a blue hole at its base, is a favorite for swimmers

Great Escapes Chesnut Bay Resort & RV Park has just about everything you can think of when it comes to family fun, including multiple pools, watersport rentals, a beach, and a water park. Pirate’s Bay Waterpark offers a variety of fun options for mates of all ages, including tube slides, body slides, a water house, a splash pad, and much more !

Terrapin Creek is over 50 feet wide with 14 miles of ﬂoatable water for canoes and kayakers. Terrapin Creek is a Class 1-2 with several outﬁtters on the creek.

Little River Canyon National Preserve features forested uplands, waterfalls, canyon rims and bluffs, and sandstone cliffs. Little River is one of the wildest and cleanest rivers in the southeastern US, in the most southern Appalachian Mountains.

Cherokee Rock Village has massive sandstone boulders that have been famed as one of the premier rock climbing locations in the country. This 250 acre park contains enormous boulders rising to 200 feet and measuring 70 feet wide in places.

Indian Mountain ATV Park stretches over 4,700 acres and has 180 miles of trails. Not only can you enjoy trail riding , but camping, ﬁshing and hiking. Follow them on FB for special events and concerts.

Your perfect day is found right here in Randolph County, West Virginia.

You can feel the fresh mountain breeze in the lush Monongahela National Forest, discover the many museums and historic sites, or embrace the culture of a small Swiss village. Board a vintage excursion train, access miles of trout streams, rivers, and rail trails, or pitch a tent under the clear night sky.