Explore Go Lists

Find your next adventure with our quick lists of inspiring experiences.

Marvel at Marine Mammals

There is something magical about sighting a pod of playful dolphins, a congregation of seals or sea lions, a majestic whale or a graceful manatee! If you want to view marine mammals this is your definitive list of must see places and animals. Marine Mammals Await

Holly Jolly Things to Do this Yuletide

Wherever you may live, you can find holiday traditions, activities, and events on federal public lands near you. Enjoy this sampling of holiday festivities to get you into the yuletide swing of things. Holiday Happenings

Whitewater That Takes You In Deep

There are only a handful of extended night white water river trips in the US. These trips allow you to truly get away from the day-to-day and experience the contrasting excitement and serenity of a river canyon. Because these trips limit the numbers of floaters to preserve the resource and the experience, it takes extra effort to meander through the permit process if you are planning a do-it-yourself vacation. The services of licensed outfitters and guides are also available on all of these rivers. Whitewater Adventures

Fall Colors

The New England States are famous for their fall colors, but just about every state - with the exception of Hawaii - has somewhere to view the golden colors of autumn. Even if you're in an area without many broadleaf trees, autumn is a great time to get outdoors! Enjoy a walk, a hike, or a bicycle or canoe trip in the apple-crisp air or take a scenic drive under sunny blue skies. The quality and angle of light around the fall equinox makes this a perfect time to take photographs. Vibrant Colors Await

Fall is the Time for Mountain Biking

Mountain biking is more than just another form of bicycling. It is off-road cycling using specialized bikes adapted for rough terrain. Mountain bikers often possess stamina, core strength, great balance, bike handling skills and self-reliance, since many trails are remote. You can mountain bike almost anywhere from a back yard to a gravel road, but we think you’ll agree that some of the best mountain bike trails are on federal public lands. Enjoy these exciting rides

Northern Lights

To watch the aurora borealis feels downright otherworldly. Shimmering and swirling, somewhere between smoke and paint, this glowing green phenomenon, though natural, creates a surreal experience for any viewer. But your chances of viewing the Northern Lights greatly increase the more north you travel - think: Alaska, Canada, Scandinavia. However, during a year when the aurora is particularly strong, you've actually got a shot at seeing this magical occurrence in the northernmost states of the lower 48. And though there are no guarantees, fall is the perfect time to try, with its dark skies and warm weather. Some scientists assert that the aurora ring is most active during the equinoxes (September 21 and March 21, approximately). Find nature's light show

California's Best Beaches

Perhaps there are as many songs written about California as there are grains of sand on the beaches there. Where does that inspiration come from? Witness the Golden State’s natural beauty firsthand and it’s hard to contain your awe. The 31st state is probably best known for her beaches from San Diego to the Oregon border. Here’s our list of California’s best beaches, and the federal lands and recreation opportunities that beckon you west. See why everyone loves the California sun

Day Hikes for Weekend Warriors

We define a "weekend warrior" as someone who must spend all week indoors, but gets outside and physical on the weekends! If you’re a weekend warrior, the perfect trail might be one that provides great scenery or even a physical challenge, yet is not too far from home. You’ll experience the solitude of wilderness, spot wildlife in a natural setting, feel the satisfaction of reaching a mountaintop or a secret fishing spot and still be home for supper! Discover these rejuvenating day hikes

Car Camping for Beginners

Beginners can ease into the outdoors with car camping. Car camping allows you to haul your favorite creature comforts – coolers, lawn chairs, lanterns, board games, fishing poles, toys, etc., and pitch your tent right next to your car. Try car camping at one of these great campgrounds

Wildlife and Bird Festivals

Picture a sky blanketed with birds erupting into flight, filling the air with calls and the sound of thousands of wings beating together. Do you want to know where to find wildlife and catch a glimpse of that rare bird you’ve had on your life list for years? For a fun, inexpensive way to find out more about birds and other wildlife, go to a wildlife or birding festival at one of your National Wildlife Refuges or other federal lands. Attend one of these wildlife or birding festivals

Scout Out Civil War Places and Events

The 150th Anniversary of the Civil War is an unparalleled time to discover, discuss, and commemorate America's greatest national crisis, and explore its relevance to today’s world. More than 70 national parks across the U.S. preserve sites and stories where this epic struggle took place from 1860 to 1865. Here are some historic sites and events worth seeing

Water Sports that Make a Splash

Did you know the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is the largest provider of water-based outdoor recreation in the nation, with 422 lake and river projects in 43 states? Sure, everyone knows about boating and fishing, but why not consider cooling off with a different kind of water sport like flat water paddling, whitewater rafting or even scuba diving? Check out some of these places to make a splash