by Kelly Gray
07.06.2009
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(c) Nora A
Just because there's no snow on the ground doesn't mean you can't go to ski resorts. In fact, it's a fantastic time for a mountain getaway – plus there are less crowds. White water, raw natural surroundings, forested canopies – perfect for mountain climbing, white-water rafting and challenging hikes. So put away your skis and snowboards and head to the hills in the 'off season'. Here's WideWorld's pick of the 15 best.
1. Telluride, Colorado
Although the town of Telluride is a mere six blocks by 12, there is no shortage of outdoor excitement and adventure in summer. Nestled among the 14,000ft peaks of the San Juan Mountains, it offers hundreds of miles of hiking, biking and horse riding trails, accessible by the free gondola service (unique to the area) that begins in the town. Ambitious climbers can also 'bag a 14er' ie. climb one of those majestic peaks. And if hiking, biking, and climbing aren't your thing, Telluride also offers fly fishing, rafting and hot air ballooning.
www.mountainlodgetelluride.com
2. Zermatt, Matterhorn
For those seeking a more remote getaway, consider Switzerland's Zermatt resort. Known as “the village without cars,” its location at the foot of the Matterhorn and surrounded by eight 4,000 ft mountains will excite even the most extreme climbers. Plus there are 400km of footpaths for hikers. Zermatt’s glaciers make it possible to ski and snowboard throughout the entire summer. If you're seeking less traditional ways to experience the breathtaking scenery, try paragliding, trampolining, or a tree-to-tree adventure in the Forest Fun Park.
Zermatt travel blogs: www.lonelyplanet.com/thorntree/message.jspa?messageID=15617470
Zermatt website: www.zermatt.ch/index.e.html
3. Chamonix, French Alps
The Chamonix Resort in France has one of the best reputations for climbing and skiing: it boasts the highest point in Western Europe (Mont Blanc, 4,810 m) after all. This means, of course, that in winter, Chamonix is busy. Not so in summer. In addition to hiking, biking, climbing and kayaking, the off-season at Chamonix offers some newer adventure sports too. Try hydrospeeding, for example – descending white water rapids on a body float. Or Via Ferratta where you can scale....
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