Winter 2026

COASTAL & SHORELINE ADVENTURES: : A VIVID EXPLORATION OF THE SOUTHERN COASTS

Outdoors Winter 2026

ADVENTURE

SMALL TOWNS

BIG ADVENTURES

OUTDOOR EXPEDITIONS WINTER SPORTS

ESCAPE THE CHILL

Cycling Hiking Fishing Paddling Off-Roading Wakeboarding Camping Choose Your own Kayaking

Motocross Hunting Drag Racing

Whatever your taste for adventure, London, KY is the ideal place to start. Because here, on the edge of the great Appalachia, surrounded by pristine forests, lakes, rivers and amazing history, unforgettable adventures begin right outside our door. VisitLondonKY.com.

Adventure’s Beginning!

Adventure

IN THIS ISSUE

WINTER 2026

Towns, Big 09 Small Adventures An inspiring look at lesser-known destinations where charm meets thrill. This story uncovers small Southern towns packed with outsized adventure — think kayaking through quiet rivers, hiking rugged terrain, and exploring local food scenes. It celebrates the authenticity, hospitality, and raw beauty of rural escapes in Texas, Louisiana, and Alabama.

the Chill: Enjoy the 16 Escape Thrill in These Top 10 Warm Weather Destinations

A countdown of the best warm-weather getaways for winter adventurers. From Gulf Shores beaches and Texas desert trails to Louisiana’s swamp tours, this listicle offers readers the perfect destinations to swap snow for sunshine.

Each location includes tips for what to see, where to stay, and the best seasonal activities.

Expeditions: 22 Outdoor Winter Sports For readers who embrace the cold, this feature explores the Southern version of winter sports — from hiking, mountain biking, and birding in mild climates to sand dune boarding and coastal kayaking. It focuses on active, adrenalinefueled ways to make the most of the season, no snow required.

22 ADRENALINE-FUELED, NO SNOW REQUIRED. & Shoreline 25 Coastal Adventures A vivid exploration of the Southern coasts — featuring saltwater fishing, sailing, scuba diving, and wildlife tours. This story captures the freedom of the shoreline, from Texas’ Padre Island to Alabama’s Orange Beach, encouraging readers to rediscover ocean-inspired adventure during the cooler months.

Salvadore Publishing Group, LLC 13575 58th Street North, #133 Clearwater, FL 33760 www.AdventureOutdoorsMagazine.com

EXECUTIVE STAFF JAKE WATTAM | Chief Executive Officer JUSTIN BAKER | VP, Sales and Operations SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTOR ANNE FOSS EDITORIAL TEAM KIMBERLY PISANO SALES, STRATEGY AND CLIENT SERVICES Justin Baker Frederick Smith Brett Pinkerton Kristen Schultz Heidi Hemenway Will Heckler

kagway, Alaska, is one of the most compelling gateway towns in the North — a compact, rugged port on the Inside Passage where gold-rush heritage meets epic wilderness adventure. Most visitors first encounter Skagway from the deck of a cruise ship, drawn by its historic boardwalk lined with restored buildings. But for the independent adventurer and the cruise passenger itching to get off the beaten path, Skagway is a launch point for some of Alaska’s most unforgettable outdoor pursuits.

Just beyond the town’s wooden storefronts lies wilderness at its most dramatic: towering peaks, icy fjords, glacier-fed rivers, and trails that once carried stampeders bound for the Klondike.

You can trace history and nature together on the famed Chilkoot Trail, a multi-day trek that follows the old prospector route through coastal rainforest, alpine terrain, and over mountain passes — a rite of passage for serious hikers.

For those seeking shorter hikes with equally rewarding scenery, local guide services offer trails that peel away from town via train or helicopter to start and into dense Tongass National Forest and along mountain ridges. The public trail systems, accessible from downtown Skagway, are equally breathtaking. Whether you’re tackling a rugged summit or a mellow coastal path, you’re immersed in the same wild spirit that has defined Southeast Alaska for centuries.

Water lovers will find equally appealing ways to explore. The Inside Passage and Lynn Canal are a boat goer’s dream with options to sailboat, tour waterfalls, ferry, fish and ocean raft..

Guided tours let you glide quietly past sheer cliffs and hidden coves, watching for bald eagles, seals, porpoises, and even humpback whales — all while soaking in views few cruise itinerary buses ever see up close.

If adrenaline is more your pace, consider rafting and float trips that combine scenic river floats with moderate hikes, or airborne adventures that lift you in a helicopter over ancient glaciers and drop you onto blue-white ice for walking tours with expert guides. Of course, history buffs will appreciate Skagway’s unique past. The White Pass & Yukon Route railroad — a steep, narrow-gauge line built during the gold rush — still runs from the port into the mountains, offering one of the most scenic rail journeys in North America.

In town, local maps (available through the Skagway Visitor Department) make it easy to plan hikes, discover hidden viewpoints, or find trails that lead you out of the crowds and into real Alaskan wilderness.

From paddle strokes to mountain trails and glacier vistas, Skagway rewards those willing to trade the ship’s promenade for paths less traveled — an outdoor adventurer’s dream at the edge of the Last Frontier.

VISIT US AT SKAGWAY.COM

W

elcome to the Winter issue of Adventure Outdoors Magazine.

Winter has a way of separating those who retreat indoors from those who lean in—and this issue is for the ones who lean in. While much of the country slows down, the outdoors quietly opens up new possibilities. Trails grow quieter, coastlines feel wilder, and cooler air invites us to move farther, push harder, and stay outside longer.

This winter edition celebrates adventure without hibernation. From coastal paddles and desert hikes to small-town escapes and Southern-style winter sports, these stories prove that cold weather doesn’t have to mean cold adventures. In fact, winter often delivers the most rewarding experiences—fewer crowds, clearer skies, active wildlife, and landscapes that feel refreshingly honest.

You’ll explore lesser-known towns where hospitality is as real as the terrain, chase adrenaline across dunes and waterways where snow never falls, and discover why winter is the perfect season to trade heavy layers for steady motion. These pages are filled with journeys that favor grit over glamour and curiosity over comfort.

At its core, this issue is about mindset. Winter isn’t an ending—it’s an invitation. An invitation to rethink how and where we play outside. To embrace early mornings, brisk winds, and the kind of silence that only exists when most people stay home. It’s about finding warmth in movement, connection in shared miles, and clarity in wide-open spaces.

So lace up your boots, load the kayak, tune the bike, or point the hood toward the coast or desert horizon.

Adventure doesn’t pause for winter—and neither should you. However you choose to explore this season, we hope these stories inspire you to get outside, stay active, and keep chasing what makes you feel alive.

Here’s to clear skies, quiet trails, and a winter well spent outdoors.

Happy adventuring!

The Adventure Outdoors Team

SMALL TOWNS

BIG ADVENTURES SOUTH’S G R E AT E ST ADVENTURES

locat ion

Just beyond town in West Texas, adventurers tackle rocky desert trails and explore deep canyons carved by time.

Some of the South’s greatest adventures aren’t found in big cities or crowded destinations—they’re tucked away in small towns where the pace is slower, the welcome is warmer, and the landscapes feel untouched. Across Texas, Louisiana, and Alabama, lesser-known communities serve as gateways to rugged terrain, quiet waterways, and unforgettable local culture. These towns may be small in size, but they deliver big when it comes to outdoor thrills and authentic experiences.

In West Texas, the small desert town of Terlingua sits on the edge of vast wilderness. Known for its quirky charm and deep-rooted history, Terlingua offers access to some of the most dramatic hiking and paddling in the region. Just beyond town, adventurers tackle rocky desert trails and explore deep canyons carved by time. Kayaking and canoeing through the Rio Grande’s scenic corridors provides a striking contrast to the surrounding desert, while evenings bring stargazing and local chili traditions that reflect the town’s offbeat spirit.

Farther east, Louisiana’s rural heartland reveals a

10 | Winter 2026 | Adventure Outdoor

different kind of adventure. Near the waterways of the Atchafalaya Basin, small communities thrive among cypress forests and winding bayous.

Kayaking here feels like slipping into another world—quiet, misty, and alive with birds, alligators, and ancient trees. Guided swamp tours and self-led paddling routes allow visitors to explore at water level, while local eateries serve Cajun flavors rooted in generations of tradition. It’s adventure steeped in culture, where the landscape and the people are inseparable.

In Alabama, the small town of Mentone offers a refreshing change of elevation. Perched atop Lookout Mountain, Mentone provides access to rugged hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic overlooks that rival more famous destinations. Cooler temperatures make it ideal for year-round exploration, and the surrounding terrain challenges hikers and trail runners alike. After a day outdoors, the town’s cozy cafés and locally owned restaurants deliver comfort food with a Southern twist, reinforcing the sense of community that defines the area.

What ties these towns together is their ability to offer adventure without pretense. There are no massive crowds or overdeveloped attractions—just honest landscapes and locals eager to share them.

Kayaking routes feel personal, trails feel earned, and meals taste better when they’re served with a story.

Small-town Southern adventures also encourage travelers to slow down and connect. Conversations happen easily, directions are often given with a smile, and recommendations come from lived experience rather than guidebooks. These places invite visitors not just to pass through, but to participate—to paddle their rivers, hike their hills, and sit at their tables.

“GUIDED SWAMP TOURS AND SELF-LED PADDLING ROUTES ALLOW VISITORS TO EXPLORE AT WATER LEVEL, WHILE LOCAL EATERIES SERVE CAJUN FLAVORS ROOTED IN GENERATIONS OF TRADITION.”

In a world that often equates adventure with scale, these rural escapes prove that size doesn’t define impact. Small towns across Texas, Louisiana, and Alabama deliver outsized experiences, blending raw beauty, genuine hospitality, and heartpounding exploration. For travelers seeking adventure with soul, the road less traveled often leads straight to the best stories.

SMALL TOWNS ACROSS TEXAS, LOUISIANA, AND ALABAMA DELIVER OUTSIZED EXPERIENCES.

In your Element

Discover Silver City, NM – The perfect WINTER GETAWAY Experience the magic of Silver City, New Mexico, this winter in Southwestern New Mexico. It’s home to the 3-million-acre Gila Wilderness. This enchanting destination offers a world of stunning landscapes and endless adventure. Hike or bike through miles of scenic trails, explore the Gila National Forest, or discover a vibrant art scene in the historic downtown. Whatever your passion, Silver City provides the perfect backdrop for your next unforgettable journey.

OKANOGAN COUNTRY, WA

“

MAKE YOUR WAY TO SITZMARK SKI HILL IN TONASKET, A LOCAL FAVORITE KNOWN FOR ITS LAID-BACK VIBE, AFFORDABLE LIFT TICKETS, AND WELCOMING COMMUNITY FEEL.”

WINTER THRILLS AWAIT Y! IN OKANOGAN COUNTR Snow? Check. Adventure?

Double check. Okanogan Country transforms into a winter playground the moment the first flakes fall, inviting everyone to step outside and embrace the season. Strap on your skis and hit Methow Trails, the largest cross-country ski network in North America—yes, you read that right! Miles of groomed trails wind through snow-dusted forests, open meadows, and mountain views that make every turn Instagram-worthy.

14 | Winter 2026 | Adventure Outdoor

Looking for downhill thrills?

Head to the Loup Loup Ski Bowl for family-friendly alpine runs, tubing, and terrain that’s perfect for all skill levels. Or make your way to Sitzmark Ski Hill in Tonasket, a local favorite known for its laid-back vibe, affordable lift tickets, and welcoming community feel. For more casual winter fun, check out Highlands Sno-Park in the north county, offering easy access to snowshoeing, sledding, and cross-country skiing.

Prefer to explore at your own pace?

Wander through quiet winter woods on snowshoes, race the kids down sledding hills, or tackle snowy backroads on a fat bike. And if you’re craving high-octane excitement, Conconully is a snowmobiling paradise—home to miles of groomed trails, sweeping vistas, and endless powder playgrounds.

After a full day of winter fun, cozy up in a warm café or lodge scattered throughout Okanogan Country. Sip hot cocoa, relive the day’s adventures, and soak up sunsets that turn the snow-covered landscape gold.

This winter, don’t just watch the snow fall—chase it. Play in it. Own it. Whether it’s your first winter adventure or your hundredth, Okanogan Country is calling.

This ad is funded totally or in part, as applicable, by the Okanogan County Hotel/Motel Lodging Tax Fund

open for

ADVENTURE

Plan Your Winter Adventure in Okanogan Country!

Explore the largest cross-country trail system in North America, two familyfriendly ski hills, charming towns, and peaceful snow-covered landscapes, all wrapped into one unforgettable trip.

FREE MAPS & GUIDES!

Call 888.431.3080, Scan the QR Code, or visit OkanoganCountry.com to start planning your adventure today!

E P A C ES

LL I H C THE

A

countdown of the best sunny escapes for winter adventurers When winter weather drives many indoors, the Southern United States offers a welcome alternative—sunshine, open landscapes, and adventure without the crowds. From beaches and barrier islands to deserts and swamps, these warm-weather destinations invite travelers to trade snow for sand while still enjoying peak outdoor conditions. Here’s a countdown of ten standout places where winter becomes the perfect season to explore.

R

K

IG BE • B N

D AT

IONAL P

N

A

Gulf Shores, Alabama, sets the tone with its soft white beaches and mild coastal climate.

Winter visitors can explore Gulf State Park’s extensive trail system, paddle quiet backwaters, or enjoy dolphin cruises without summer congestion. Beachfront condos and relaxed coastal hotels provide comfortable stays, while winter fishing and birdwatching shine during the cooler months.

N

PA

AT

IONAL RK

* BI

G BE

ND

ENJOY THE THRILL G

UL

F SHOR

ES

,A

LABAMA |

LABAMA

|

,A

IN THESE TOP 10 WARM WEATHER DESTINATIONS

F SHOR

ES

Back along the coast, Orange Beach, Alabama, blends refined comforts with outdoor thrills. Cooler months bring calmer waters for sailing, dolphin tours, and wildlife excursions. Marina-front resorts and

Farther inland, Big Bend National Park

UL

Farther inland, Big Bend National Park offers a dramatic change of scenery. Winter is the park’s most

popular season thanks to comfortable daytime temperatures ideal for hiking canyons, paddling the Rio Grande, and exploring desert trails. Lodges inside the park and rentals in nearby Terlingua provide a base for star-filled nights under some of the darkest skies in the country.

G

On Texas’ Padre Island, the landscape opens into wide stretches of undeveloped shoreline where adventure feels limitless.

Cooler temperatures make surf fishing, beach driving, and kitepowered sports especially enjoyable. Staying near Corpus Christi or camping along the island allows easy access to prime redfish and trout waters that peak during fall and winter.

vacation rentals place visitors close to both adventure and relaxation, while fewer crowds allow for peaceful sunsets and enhanced wildlife viewing.

South Padre Island continues the Texas coastal theme with a subtropical feel that remains warm year-round. Winter visitors enjoy deep-sea fishing, parasailing, and exploring the Laguna Madre’s shallow flats. Resorts and bayfront hotels offer easy access to migratory bird watching and productive winter fishing.

offers a dramatic change of scenery

CH FRENTER IN R QUANEW S EAN ORL

LOUISIANA’S NEW ORLEANS

proves that adventure doesn’t stop at city limits. Beyond its legendary food and music, winter is prime time for swamp and bayou tours. Cooler temperatures make outdoor exploration comfortable, and boutique hotels near the French Quarter or Garden District keep visitors close to both culture and nature.

Deeper into Louisiana, the Atchafalaya Basin delivers one of the most immersive wildlife experiences in the South. Guided boat and airboat tours glide through cypress forests teeming with birds and alligators. Nearby lodges or Baton Rouge accommodations make it easy to explore during winter, when wildlife is active and visibility is at its best.

Galveston, Texas, offers a blend of historic charm and coastal adventure. Winter brings calmer surf for fishing and sailing, plus cooler weather for walking the seawall and exploring historic districts. Beachfront inns and restored hotels provide characterfilled stays during festival-filled months.

18 | Winter 2026 | Adventure Outdoor

San Antonio, Texas, rounds out the list with mild weather perfect for outdoor exploration. Beyond the River Walk, visitors can bike scenic trails, explore nearby caves, and venture into the Hill Country. Downtown hotels and countryside lodges offer easy access to winter-friendly adventure.

These destinations prove that winter doesn’t signal the end of adventure—it simply changes the setting.

By heading south, travelers can enjoy peak conditions, fewer crowds, and unforgettable experiences that turn the colder months into the perfect season to explore.

RIVE R IN S WALK ANT AN O TEX NIO, AS

“GALVESTON, TEXAS, OFFERS A BLEND OF HISTORIC CHARM AND COASTAL ADVENTURE. WINTER BRINGS CALMER SURF FOR FISHING AND SAILING, PLUS COOLER WEATHER FOR WALKING THE SEAWALL.”

“ LO U I ORLE SIANA’S NE ANS P W THAT R ADVE OVES D OES NTUR N CITY L ’T STOP A E T IMITS .”

CULTURE AND NATURE

DUDE RANCHERS, WY

F

or a century, the Dude Ranchers’ Association has worked to preserve Western heritage – protecting the landscapes, traditions, hospitality, and horsemanship that define the American West. Today, its member ranches continue to set the standard for meaningful adventure and genuine connection.

“WYOMING – OFTEN CONSIDERED THE HEART OF COWBOY COUNTRY, OFFERS THE WESTERN TRADITION IN ITS OWN WAY.”

In the northern Rockies, Idaho’s member ranches offer a blend of mountain beauty and long-standing ranch traditions. Red Horse Mountain Ranch is known for its mix of family friendly outdoor adventure and comfortable retreat, while Western Pleasure Guest Ranch continues three generations of warm, family-focused hospitality. Together, these two ranches represent the authentic spirit of Idaho, where open meadows, forested peaks, and welcoming hosts shape the guest ranch experience.

Wyoming – often considered the heart of cowboy country, offers the Western tradition in its own way. The Hideout Lodge and Guest Ranch, pairs a refined lodging with a strong focus on horsemanship and personalized service. Medicine Bow Lodge and Guest Ranch offers a century-old legacy of hospitality, Klondike Ranch provides a true working cattle ranch experience passed down through generations, and CM Ranch, combines rich history with dramatic high-country scenery.

Farther south, ranches like Rawah Ranch in Colorado’s alpine wilderness and Stagecoach Trails Guest Ranch in the deserts of Arizona highlight the West’s diverse landscapes. From Rawah’s peaceful mountain lakes to Stagecoach Trails’ wide-open desert vistas, these ranches offer space for reflection, adventure, and connection.

Together, these ranches, along with all our member ranches, represent the Dude Ranchers’ Association’s dedication to authenticity, land stewardship, and memorable Western experiences.

To start planning your next adventure, contact the dude ranch experts at 307-587-2339 or email info@duderanch.org.

20 | Winter 2026 | Adventure Outdoor

Red Horse Mountain Ranch Harrison, Idaho RedHorseMountainRanch.com ▪ (208) 689-9680

Red Horse Mountain Ranch in Idaho offers an all inclusive escape that blends adventure and comfort. Guests enjoy guided trail rides, hiking, and archery, along with chef prepared meals and campfire stories. Welcoming families, solo travelers, and couples, the ranch features themed weeks like Adults Only and Outdoor Adventure. Cozy lodging and attentive service create a warm community where visitors leave feeling like family.

Stagecoach Trails Guest Ranch Yucca, Arizona StagecoachTrailsRanch.com (928) 727-8270

▪

Experience the Wild West, only two hours from Las Vegas and the Grand Canyon. All- inclusive packages, including outstanding horseback riding, meals, rooms, and unsurpassed Western Hospitality.

Buffalo, Wyoming KlondikeRanch.com (307) 684-2390

We are a working cattle ranch offering June Cowboy Clinics and summer cattle drives in the Big Horns along with fishing, hiking, historic sightseeing and camping. Come ride Wyoming with us!

Medicine Bow Lodge offers rustic cabins, hearty meals, mountain views, and classic Western adventures—horseback riding, hiking, fishing, hot springs, and family activities—in a historic, welcoming Wyoming setting.

Experience the heritage and horsemanship of North Idaho’s true West with a personalized dude ranch stay tailored to your relaxation or adventure preferences.

Luxury riding and horsemanship ranch near Cody and Yellowstone hosts up to 25 guests on 650,000 acres with about 100 horses. Enjoy riding focused experiences plus trapshooting, fly fishing, biking, hiking, and a relaxing hot tub. Expert instructors welcome all skill levels. Fresh locally sourced meals, guided hikes and fishing, and evenings by the campfire with stories and stargazing create a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.

Klondike Ranch ▪

Medicine Bow Lodge & Guest Ranch Saratoga, Wyoming MedicineBowLodge.net ▪ (307) 326-5439

Western Pleasure Guest Ranch Sandpoint, ID WesternPleasureRanch.com ▪ (208) 263-9066

The Hideout Lodge & Guest Ranch Shell, Wyoming TheHideout.com ▪ (307) 765-2080

CM Ranch ▪

Rawah Ranch ▪

Dubois, Wyoming CMRanch.com (307) 455-2331

Glendevey, CO RawahRanch.com (800) 510-7071

A historic dude ranch, specializing in summer vacations since 1927. Located next to Yellowstone Park and Jackson Hole, WY makes the CM an ideal destination to hang your hat.

Experience Rawah Ranch—an authentic Western getaway where charm meets adventure. Immerse yourself in nature, explore historic trails, and embrace true cowgirl living. Secure your 2025 escape today!

ADiscover Century of Adventure the Heart of the West at a Dude Ranch

A Century of Adventure iscover the Heart of the West at a Dude Ranch

D

info@duderanch.org nfo@dud ranch.org | 307.587.2339 | www. www.duderanch.org dud ranch.org

i

OUTDOOR

S N O I T I EXPED

E L Y T S N R E H T U O S — S T R WINTER SPO

W

inter doesn’t have to mean snow-covered slopes or freezing lift lines. In the South, the colder months unlock a different kind of winter sports season—one defined by movement, adrenaline, and mild climates that invite outdoor exploration without the need for heavy gear. From trail systems and coastal waters to windswept dunes, Southern winter sports offer active adventurers a fresh way to embrace the season.

As temperatures drop into comfortable ranges, hiking and mountain biking take center stage across the region. Trails that feel punishing in summer heat become ideal winter playgrounds, allowing for longer distances and higher intensity. In places like Big Bend National Park, hikers traverse rugged desert terrain, climb canyon walls, and follow river corridors under crisp blue

22 | Winter 2026 | Adventure Outdoor

skies. The absence of extreme heat turns challenging routes into exhilarating endurance experiences, while mountain bikers enjoy improved traction and stamina on rocky and technical trails throughout Texas and the Southeast.

Birding may not sound adrenaline-fueled at first, but winter migrations transform it into a

fast-paced, rewarding pursuit.

Southern wetlands, barrier islands, and forests become critical stopovers for thousands of species. Active birders log miles on foot and by kayak, scanning shorelines and tree lines for rare sightings. Along the Gulf Coast, coastal preserves and estuaries offer unmatched winter birding opportunities, blending physical exploration with wildlife immersion.

For those craving something more unconventional, sand dune boarding delivers a snow-free alternative to traditional downhill sports. Coastal dunes and inland sand formations become natural terrain parks during winter, when cooler temperatures make climbing and repeated runs more manageable. Boarding down sunlit dunes provides speed, balance, and a healthy dose of thrill—no lift ticket required. It’s a reminder that gravity sports don’t need snow to deliver excitement.

Coastal kayaking offers another highenergy winter option, particularly when summer crowds fade and waters grow calmer. Paddlers navigate bays, marshes, and open shoreline routes where winter winds add challenge and skill-building opportunities.

In destinations like Padre Island and Orange Beach, kayakers experience the Gulf in a more intimate way—gliding past dolphins, navigating tidal currents, and covering longer distances

without oppressive heat. Cold fronts may bring sharper air, but they also deliver clarity, wildlife activity, and unmatched solitude.

Winter is also prime season for multisport outdoor days, where adventurers combine hiking, biking, paddling, and climbing into a single expedition.

Southern landscapes make it possible to start the morning on a trail, spend midday on the water, and finish

FOR THOSE CRAVING SOMETHING MORE UNCONVENTIONAL.

Sand dune boarding delivers a snow-free alternative to traditional downhill sports. Coastal dunes and inland sand formations become natural terrain parks during winter, when cooler temperatures make climbing and repeated runs more manageable.

with a sunset beach run. This flexibility encourages creative adventure planning and keeps energy levels high throughout the season.

What defines Southern winter sports is not the absence of snow, but the presence of possibility. Mild climates remove barriers, allowing athletes and explorers to push harder, go farther, and stay outside longer. The season becomes less about surviving the cold and more about harnessing it—using cooler air and quieter landscapes to fuel performance and discovery.

For those willing to rethink what winter sports can be, the South offers a compelling answer. It’s a season of motion, grit, and exploration, where adrenaline flows freely and adventure thrives without frostbite or frozen terrain. Winter doesn’t slow things down here—it opens the door to a whole new way to play outside.

“

WINTER IS ALSO PRIME SEASON FOR MULTI-SPORT OUTDOOR DAYS, WHERE ADVENTURERS COMBINE HIKING, BIKING, PADDLING, AND CLIMBING INTO A SINGLE EXPEDITION.

COASTAL &

S

Coastal & Shoreline

S

S• RE

INE ADVEN REL TU HO

COASTAL &

INE ADVEN TU REL HO

S• RE

adventures OF N O I T A R O L P X A VIVID E ERN COASTS THE SOUTH

W

hen the summer crowds thin and the air turns crisp, the Southern coastline reveals its most rewarding season.

Cooler months bring calmer waters, migrating wildlife, and a renewed sense of freedom along the shore.

Padre Island

Along the Texas shoreline, Padre Island stretches endlessly, a ribbon of sand bordered by rolling surf and open sky.

From the wild, wind-swept sands of Padre Island to the

sugar-white beaches of Orange Beach, the Gulf Coast invites adventure seekers to rediscover the ocean on its own terms.

Along the Texas shoreline, Padre Island stretches endlessly, a ribbon of sand bordered by rolling surf and open sky. Known as one of the longest barrier islands in the world, it’s a paradise for saltwater anglers and explorers alike. Fall and winter bring prime fishing conditions, as redfish, speckled trout, and flounder move closer to shore. Wading into the surf at sunrise, rod in hand, offers a quiet communion with the sea that summer rarely allows. The steady coastal breeze also makes this a favorite destination for sailing and kite-powered water sports, where wind and water combine for pure exhilaration.

As you move east along the Gulf, the coastline transforms but never loses its adventurous spirit.

Offshore charters and nearshore reefs provide exceptional opportunities for scuba diving, even

26 | Winter 2026 | Adventure Outdoor

during cooler months. Visibility often improves as boat traffic decreases, revealing vibrant underwater ecosystems teeming with snapper, grouper, sea turtles, and rays. Whether descending on a wreck site or drifting over a natural reef, divers experience a calmer, more intimate connection to the marine world during this season.

Sailing takes on a different character in autumn and winter as well. Without the intense heat, long days on the water become more comfortable and contemplative. The Gulf’s coastal winds are steady, making for smooth passages and ideal learning conditions for new sailors. There’s a timeless pleasure in trimming sails against a cool breeze, watching the coastline slide by while seabirds trace lazy arcs overhead.

kes t a t g n Sailaindifferein on racter cha umn and ell. aut ter as w win

In Alabama, Orange Beach offers a refined blend of comfort and adventure. Here, the shoreline serves as a gateway to dolphin cruises, eco-tours, and backwater wildlife excursions. Bottlenose dolphins are a year-round presence, often more active in cooler temperatures. Guided boat tours take visitors into bays and estuaries where pelicans dive, ospreys hunt, and manatees occasionally surface. These quieter months provide unmatched opportunities for wildlife photography and observation, without the noise and congestion of peak season.

The Southern coast is also rich with walking trails, beaches, and barrier islands perfect for exploration on foot. Cooler weather invites long shoreline hikes, shell collecting, and sunrise beachcombing. The rhythm of the waves and the vast horizon encourage reflection, reminding adventurers that sometimes the greatest journeys are the simplest ones.

What makes coastal adventure during the cooler months so compelling is the balance it offers — excitement without excess, solitude without isolation. It’s a season when the ocean feels more personal, more honest. The shoreline becomes not just a destination, but a companion, offering space to breathe, explore, and reconnect.

From casting a line into Gulf waters to slipping beneath the surface on a quiet dive, Southern coastal adventures prove that the ocean never rests — and neither should our sense of discovery.

Cooler months don’t signal the end of adventure; they invite a deeper, richer way to experience it.

Southern coast

Rich with walking trails, beaches, and barrier islands perfect for exploration on foot.

Guided boat tours take visitors into bays and estuaries where pelicans dive, ospreys hunt, and manatees occasionally surface.

ELKINSRANDOLPH, WV

I

magine relaxing with a hot meal and live music after a long day of hiking a forested trail, or rising early to catch trout before resting in a comfy cabin with spirits distilled just down the road.

Or maybe you’d rather see yourself hopping onboard a historic train ride after perusing local art in a charming downtown. You can do it all in Randolph County, West Virginia.

Elkins is home to the headquarters of the expansive Monongahela National Forest which allows cross-country skiing on many of its trails and roads, including those in Laurel Fork and Otter Creek Wilderness, and the Mower Tract which is also great for biking and hiking in warmer

TIRED OF THE COLD?

weather. You can even XC-ski and snowshoe just a few minutes outside of downtown on the Allegheny Highlands Trail or in Fox Forest Wildlife Management Area.

Enjoy winter scenery while riding in style on board the Elkins Winter Special. This scenic train excursion departs from Elkins and travels along the Tygart Valley River, with a stop on the return trip at the historic Golden Rule building in the railyard in Belington, where you can shop local wares and learn about the area's railroad history.

This 4-hour journey will run for a limited time in January and February, the ideal time of year for unobstructed views of the river and Wilmoth Falls.

Celebrate the end of winter during the one-of-a-kind Fasnacht festival in Helvetia. This unique SwissAppalachian tradition is known for its amusing and intricate handmade masks, parade by lantern light, square dance, and the ceremonial burning of “Old Man Winter”.

Stop by anytime of the year to find locally made crafts and cheese at Swiss Roots, or take a secluded hike on Helvetia Historic Trail which follows the route of the area's Swiss settlers. In late winter, you can take a short drive from there to Pickens for their annual Maple Syrup Festival where you can try fresh syrup and pancakes made from scratch pancakes.

The nearby Kumbrabow State Forest is the highest state forest in West Virginia and is home to historic cabins, a shooting range, and the beautiful Mill Creek Falls featured on the West Virginia Waterfall Trail.

The spectacular view from the

scenic overlook accessible via the Potato Hole or Rich Mountain Fire trails is not to be missed!

alike can find something delicious to enjoy, from ramp-burgers and hotdogs to dumplings and Venezuelan cachapas.

West Virginians also celebrate the end of winter by eating ramps, a kind of wild onion found throughout Appalachia that’s prized for its fresh nutrients and pungent odor. Ramps are celebrated throughout April at community dinners in Pickens, Helvetia, and Elkins, which is home to the long running Ramps & Rail Festival. Held annually on the last Saturday in April, attendees can find live music, scenic train rides, and over 50 craft and food vendors.

Ramp lovers and first-timers

Enjoy modern amenities tucked away in a secluded spot with a variety of rental options from Czar Haus or The Trails at Files Creek. Delve into local history as you relax in any of our historic homes available to rent like Laura Jackson Arnold House or Laurel River Club B&B, or the C.C.C. era Middle Mountain Cabins. If you don't want to be far from the excitement of downtown Elkins there are familiar hotel options and the charming boutique Tygart Hotel.

Wherever you choose, you can be sure to find a cozy place to enjoy the views while staying indoors or easy access to endless outdoor recreation opportunities.

PLAN YOUR ADVENTURE AT ELKINSRANDOLPHWV.COM

T h i s

i s

m o u n t a i n

b i k e

C H E W A C L A

m e c c a .

S T A T E

P A R K

|

A U B U R N ,

A L

Meet the coolest college town in the South. And his hip older sister. aotourism.com

08.24 Outdoor Adventures Magazine Fall - Chewacla MTB.indd 1

8/16/2024 2:40:05 PM