Immersive Natural Escape Destinations

The natural world is all around us, but sometimes it requires taking a step back from the grind of our daily lives to truly appreciate it.

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Gain some perspective by stepping not just away, but through total immersion in a place that's completely unusual. The escapes on this list allow you to indulge your senses, taking in the sights, sounds, and scents of nature in landscapes far and near-from underwater, moving restaurants to luxury resorts and timeless cities. -EILEEN FALKENBERG-HULL.

1. Jungle Ridgeline Ka'au Crater Trail OAHU, HAWAII 

This jungle trail in Oahu goes deep into the lush, moist region where sunlight is scarce but adventure is not.

Streams, tall trees, animals, and waterfalls surround you on your journey to the top of the crater. Leave time to jump into one of the pools for a swim, and enjoy the view from the Ka'au Crater in peace and serenity. 

2. Sand Meets Sky Arches National Park MOAB, UTAH

Its red and orange landscape, coupled with iconic rock formations, makes Arches National Park a must-visit spot.

But it's more than that. The oasis from city life welcomes hikers and stargazers, offering up some of the clearest views of the night sky in North America, and welcomes photographers to capture its splendor. Spend the night or weekend camping to take in the full sunrise-to-sunrise beauty. 

3. Wild Horses Cumberland Island GEORGIA

Georgia has no coastline, only barrier islands. One, Cumberland Island, remains a natural sanctuary for coastal life along one of America's National Seashores. It's only accessible via boat, but once you're on the island you can bicycle or walk to see the herds of majestic wild horses, enjoy a day at the beach or poke around the ruins of the Dungeness Mansion.