Escape the Summer Heat in These Cold-Weather Destinations

2018-06-12

Hike, bike, camp and see spectacular wildlife and landscapes in these unexpected summer vacation destinations.
As the impending summer forecast shows scorching heat, it’s the perfect time to think about slipping away to a destination with milder temperatures, fresh mountain air and reasonable prices. So, if you’re ready to lie low and spend quality time in the great outdoors on a fun and offbeat summer vacation to remember, start mapping your trip to these colorful mountain towns, inspiring national parks and beautiful far-flung international places, from Norway to Nova Scotia. (Getty Images)

Enjoy outdoor adventures in the Colorado Rockies.
Want to embrace cool mountain scenery in an urban destination? Denver is the perfect place to enjoy an active adventure with big-city attractions, open roads and plenty of outdoor pursuits. Best of all, the higher you climb, the cooler the air. While the nights can get chilly, the summer days are mild, with temperatures hovering in the 70s and 80s. Enjoy rafting, biking and hiking, as you take in the beautiful views. (iStockPhoto)

Relax by the lake in Milwaukee.
Summer is the time to chill out in Milwaukee. Perched on Lake Michigan, Milwaukee affords pleasant daytime temperatures lingering in the 70s and 80s during the peak travel season. While motorcycle fans will love to learn about the Harley-Davidson history in the area, foodies can delight in a staple: Wisconsin cheese. What’s more, many festivals also take place in the summertime, including the popular Milwaukee Summerfest, a vibrant music festival along the lake that will showcase more than 800 bands over an 11-day stretch from the tail end of June through early July. Other can’t-miss summer festivals include the Wisconsin State Fair, Polish Fest and PrideFest Milwaukee. (Getty Images)

Experience a mild summer in Denali National Park.
If you like cooler conditions, enjoy pleasant temperatures in the 60s in Alaska at Denali National Park and Preserve, where you can take in wide open spaces, check out staggering mountain views and enjoy ample opportunities for wildlife spotting. The preserve stretches across 6 million acres and is blanketed with animals roaming along snowy mountains and alpine tundra. Denali National Park is also celebrating its 100th birthday in 2017, making it the perfect time to take part in special events. Aside from hiking along scenic trails, you can catch sled dog demonstrations and enjoy other immersive activities. (Getty Images)

Take the kids to Yellowstone National Park.
A trip to Yellowstone – with its majestic peaks, impressive wildlife and dramatic waterfalls and geysers – is a rite of passage for every budding outdoor adventurer. And happily, in the summertime, temperatures hover around the 70s during the daytime, and dip into the 40s at night, perfect for planning a memorable (and comfortable) family camping trip. During your trip, don’t miss exploring geothermal wonders, such as Old Faithful geyser and Mammoth Hot Springs, or catching sight of the area’s canyons, forests and rivers. (Getty Images)

Admire the northern lights and otherworldly landscapes in Norway.
Get away to brisk and bright Norway this summer, and enjoy the country’s pleasant summer temperatures, which typically linger in the 50s and 60s. Celebrate the summer solstice on June 23, which will include a traditional seaside bonfire where locals and visitors will gather to be merry, drink and eat to commemorate the occasion. Best of all, you can catch a view of the northern lights and explore the area’s vibrant pubs and historic sights, such as in Mandal and Oslo. If you’re yearning for cooler temperatures, go north. (Getty Images)

Enjoy whale watching in Nova Scotia.
If you love seafood and wildlife watching opportunities, consider making your way to Nova Scotia for a cool summer escape to remember. A maritime province located off the coast of Canada, Nova Scotia has delicious seafood and abundant active outdoor adventures. Explore the famous Bay of Fundy as well as the vibrant capital, Halifax, where you can check out the beautiful star-shaped Citadel, meander through the nation’s famous public gardens dating back to the Victorian era and embrace mild summer temperatures in the 60s and 80s. (M.M. Sweet/Getty Images)

Courtesy of USNews