Imagine walking through lush forests, breathing in crisp mountain air, and finding stunning vistas. Despite its small size of 13,000 people, there’s plenty to see. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just enjoy a good nature walk, there’s a trail here for you.

From easy-going paths to those that get your heart pumping, there’s something for everyone.

Branson’s Best Nature Trails You Can’t Miss

Lace up your boots and explore the beauty of Branson – you won’t want to miss this!

Are you traveling to Branson this summer and want to see the greenery rather than the city? You’re in luck, as Branson boasts some of the most beautiful scenery in the US, with trails suitable for all levels of hiking ability. Even if this is your first hike, you won’t struggle!

Here are the top eight trails you should explore:

Waterfall Trail

If you love the sound and view of waterfalls, then you simply have to walk the Waterfall Trail.

Running along Roark Creek, this trail includes a canopy, amazing prehistoric rock formations, and, of course, a lot of waterfalls. Just make sure to always check the weather before you walk this trail, as it may close after heavy rainfall.

While you can’t camp out on this trail overnight, it’s conveniently located near two Westgate Resorts destinations, so you can relax in style after a long hike. And with pet-friendly accommodations, you can bring your furry friend along worry-free!

White River Valley Trail

Nestled in Table Rock State Park, the White River Valley Trail is a bit more mountainous than the Waterfall Trail.

Ideal for medium-skilled hikers and bikers, this trail is chock-a-block with natural beauty. You may encounter dolomite glades, American sycamore trees, and wildlife, including roadrunners, Missouri tarantulas (the state’s largest spider), and collared lizards. To see these animals, it’s best to visit during the peak of summer, so pack plenty of water.

Top of the Rock

For cave enthusiasts and lovers of unusual rock formations, the Top of the Rock trail is a must-see.

Located in the Ozark Mountains, this trail showcases the beauty of Table Rock Lake, along with waterfalls and caves. An interesting and fun feature of this trail is a bar inside one of the caves, allowing hikers to rehydrate or relax with a drink.

Table Rock Lakeshore Trail

If you’re looking for a trail that’s more accessible or easy to walk with kids, the Table Rock Lakeshore Trail is perfect.

Most of this trail is paved with asphalt, but it still offers beautiful views of Table Rock Lake and winds through woodland filled with wildflowers. Best of all for dog owners, this trail is dog-friendly, though pets must be kept on a leash.

Glade Exploration Trail

The Glade Exploration Trail provides walkers and ramblers a slightly elevated view of the Henning Wildlife Refuge. This walk features stunning views of rivers and trees and is easy for both young and old hikers to enjoy. Dogs are allowed on the trail but need to be kept on a leash.

Lakeside Forest Wilderness Area

Located near downtown Branson, the Lakeside Forest Wilderness Area offers a peaceful retreat with over 140 acres of rugged, scenic beauty. The trail system here features a variety of routes, including the Lost Canyon Cave and Nature Trail, which takes you through dense forest and past serene streams. With historic homestead sites and stone steps leading to stunning views of Lake Taneycomo, this area is perfect for those looking to explore Branson’s natural and historical heritage.

North Beach Park Trail

For a leisurely stroll, the North Beach Park Trail is ideal. This paved trail runs along Lake Taneycomo and connects to Branson Landing, offering beautiful lakeside views and plenty of spots to sit and relax. It’s perfect for families, as the trail is accessible and stroller-friendly. Enjoy the tranquil environment and watch for local wildlife, such as ducks and herons, as you walk along this peaceful path.

Homestead Trail

For a mix of history and nature, the Homestead Trail in Ruth and Paul Henning Conservation Area is a great choice. This 3.5-mile loop takes you through oak-hickory forests and glades, offering scenic vistas of the White River Balds Natural Area. The trail is named after the historic homestead of the Henning family, and along the way, you can enjoy interpretive signs that share the area’s rich history.

Branson’s trails offer something for everyone, from cascading waterfalls to serene lakeshores and historic homesteads. Lace up your hiking boots and start exploring these beautiful paths. You won’t be disappointed!

If you’re drawn to the call of the wild, like we are, certain travel destinations offer experiences that are both profound and unforgettable.

We’ve had the amazing fortune of visiting six of these natural wonderlands for ourselves and the seventh has sat atop our mile long dream destination bucket list for almost two decades. We WILL get there eventually!

7 Best Vacation Destinations for Nature Lovers

Hopefully you can check out all these places for yourself. Until then, here are our top seven best travel destinations that every nature lover should experience.

Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

For an unforgettable safari experience, the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania is a must-visit. Famous for its annual migration of over two million wildebeest and zebras, the Serengeti offers some of the best wildlife viewing in Africa.

Here, you can see the drama of predator and prey in its most authentic form. Accommodations range from luxury lodges to mobile camps, allowing visitors to stay in the heart of the wilderness.

This is the only travel destination for nature lovers on our bucket list that we haven’t marked off yet though we’re hoping it happens sooner than later. Waking up in a camp to the sounds of the Serengeti could only be enhanced if there were giraffes and elephants visible from our tent, something I hear happens often. Thinking of heading there yourself? You’ll likely need a Tanzania visa and a reputable guide.

Banff National Park, Canada

Nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Banff National Park is a paradise for nature enthusiasts. With its surreal turquoise lakes, such as the world-famous Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, towering mountains, and diverse wildlife, Banff offers an unparalleled mountain escape. Hiking enthusiasts can explore trails like the Plain of Six Glaciers or take the scenic drive along the Icefields Parkway.

In summer, you can take a canoe on Lake Louise’s turquoise waters or, if you prefer more solitude, hike up to Consolation Lakes for unforgettable scenery. No matter where you go in the park there are hikes and pathways with plenty of back country opportunities and even a few hot springs to soak in after a long day on the trail.

In winter, the entire park transforms into a snowy wonderland with some of the best skiing, snowboarding, cross country skiing and snowshoeing you’ll find anywhere in the world. The extra bonus for us is that it’s only a few hours from our house and was only an hour from Calgary when we lived there.

Amazon Rainforest, South America

Spanning over nine countries in South America, the Amazon Rainforest is the largest and most biodiverse tract of tropical rainforest in the world. It’s a living, breathing heart of the planet, home to millions of species of flora and fauna.

Adventure seekers can explore the jungle through guided tours, spot exotic wildlife, and immerse themselves in the unique cultures of indigenous tribes. The Amazon is not just a destination; it’s an experience that resonates with the primal essence of nature.

Our time spent in the Amazon involved tons of hiking and exploration. We managed to see all five varieties of monkeys at our La Selva eco lodge, thousands of macaws and more than a few sloths and snakes. We went fishing for piranhas one morning the went for a swim with them in afternoon. We learned how the indigenous people lived and had the opportunity to canoe through some amazing landscapes. It was an unforgettable experience to put it mildly.

Great Barrier Reef, Australia

The Great Barrier Reef, the world’s largest coral reef system, is a kaleidoscope of marine life and vibrant corals. Located off the coast of Queensland, Australia, it’s a dream destination for divers and snorkelers. The reef is home to a stunning array of sea life, including turtles, sharks, and countless species of fish and corals. Visitors can also explore the beautiful Whitsunday Islands and the quaint coastal towns along the reef.

We spent months traveling Australia’s west coast and there truly are some hidden natural gems scattered in the land down under. We dove the Great Barrier reef twice but we still regret not going on a multi-day dive trip to get to the more untouched zones.

If you’re craving an underwater adventure, not much can beat this corner of Australia and I still consider the Whitsunday Islands some of the most beautiful islands I’ve ever sailed around.

Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

New Zealand’s Fiordland National Park is a spectacle of fjords, rugged mountains, and lush rainforests. It’s a part of the larger UNESCO World Heritage site, Te Wahipounamu.

Nature lovers can explore the famous Milford Sound, take a boat trip to witness the majestic waterfalls, or hike the renowned Milford, Routeburn, or Kepler Tracks. Fiordland is a testament to the raw, unspoiled beauty of nature and how rugged some places so close to civilization can still be.

We enjoyed our time spent in this area on New Zealand’s South Island and have to say that it is a beautiful stretch of land. We went hiking, kayaking and also took the cruise out to the Milford Sound waterfalls. It was an amazing adventure and we’re happy we had the opportunity to check this corner of New Zealand out for ourselves.

Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

The Galápagos Islands, situated about 1,000 kilometers off the coast of Ecuador, are a cluster of volcanic islands famed for their vast number of endemic species. These islands played a significant role in Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution and their isolation has led to the development of unique wildlife not found anywhere else in the world.

Some of the local fauna includes the giant Galápagos tortoise, marine iguanas, and the flightless cormorant plus tons of sea lions, seat turtles, blue footed boobies and even their own penguin species.

The 18 main islands boast diverse ecosystems ranging from barren lava formations to lush highlands. This variety allows for a range of activities, such as hiking to the summit of Sierra Negra Volcano, snorkeling in the clear waters of Devil’s Crown, or exploring the mangroves by kayak.

We spent three weeks in the Galapagos, including day trips from Isabela Island and don’t regret one minute we spent there. From gorgeous beaches to lava tunnel formed water inlets filled with sea turtles, it seemed there was something to see every way you turned. With a very different vibe on each of the three major islands we enjoyed snorkeling, hanging out on the beach and searching for giant tortoises the most.

Sumatra, Indonesia

Sumatra, the sixth-largest island in the world, is known for its rugged tropical terrain, rich biodiversity, and vibrant culture. Considered by many as Indonesia’s last wild frontier, it’s a place where adventure blends nicely with the untamed beauty of nature.

Sumatra’s tropical rainforests are among the most biologically diverse habitats on Earth. The Leuser Ecosystem and Kerinci Seblat National Park are notable for their populations of critically endangered Sumatran tigers, elephants, and rhinoceroses.

The most famous inhabitant is probably the Sumatran orangutan, found primarily in the northern part of the island and is the only place other than Borneo where these soulful creatures still dwell.

Mount Kerinci, the highest volcano in Indonesia, offers challenging treks and panoramic views. You also have Lake Toba, a massive volcanic lake, the largest in Southeast Asia that’s a great area to visit and swim in it’s deep, clear waters. In southern Sumatra, centered around the town of Krui, is a long stretch of winding coastline with world class surfing and an awesome collection of surf breaks that rival anything you’ll find anywhere in the world.

Honestly, we had never thought of visiting Sumatra until five Danes we met while traveling through Southern Asia convinced us to take a ferry over and check it out ourselves. From the ferry ride itself to hiking around Bukittinggi to seeing wild orangutans to chilling by Lake Toba with the locals, those 3 weeks were some of the most memorable travels we have ever encountered and we’re glad that we had the chance to see Sumatra for ourselves.

What Makes These Destinations Special?

Each of these destinations offers something unique to the nature lover. From the serene lakes and mountains of Banff to the vibrant underwater world of the Great Barrier Reef, the variety is astounding.

The Amazon and Serengeti allow intimate encounters with wildlife in their natural habitats, while Fiordland showcases the serene beauty of New Zealand’s landscapes. The Galapagos is unique just for it’s uniqueness and Sumatra gives you a glimpse of the past and how we can never underestimate the natural wonder of the world or the animals that call it home.

Tips for Responsible Travel

When visiting these natural wonders, it’s crucial to travel responsibly. Always respect wildlife and their habitats, stick to designated trails, and follow the principles of Leave No Trace. Choose eco-friendly accommodations and tour operators who contribute to the conservation of these areas. Remember, our actions can significantly impact the preservation of these natural wonders for future generations.

For those who seek a connection with the natural world, these seven destinations offer experiences that go beyond mere sightseeing. They offer a chance to connect with the Earth in its most unadulterated form, to witness the wonder of the natural world, and to be reminded of the incredible beauty our planet holds.

So pack your bags, lace up your hiking boots, and set out on a journey that will leave an indelible mark on your soul.

Glamping is a mix of glamourous amenities with camping out in the wild. You get the beauty and relaxation of being near nature, while not having to give up a warm bath, a comfortable bed or even a gourmet meal depending on how much you’re willing to spend.

Glamping lets you get out in nature, without all the hassle of setting up a tent and sleeping on the ground, or the inconveniences of using public washrooms and cooking out of a cooler.

These vacation alternatives can even come accessorized with lavish features like hot tubs, luxurious washrooms, high end beds, and often stunning views.

With glamping, there’s a price point for everyone, from the most affordable and simple accommodation to high end luxury retreats catering to all your needs.

Luxury Glamping in the UK

From a yurt to a cabin in the woods, to a well provisioned caravan or oversized tent, glamping in the UK is special and inspiring. Many of these glamping options have the amenities of a five star resort giving you a luxury vacation, while others are simple, rustic and close to nature.

No matter which you chose, glamping lets you enjoy nature in comfort, while still getting outdoors and experiencing the natural world around you.

Glamping with a Hot Tub

There’s something so special about coming home from a day of hiking or exploring, and then relaxing in a hot tub. Glamping with hot tubs at Unique Hideaways lists dozens of UK hideaways that let you get outdoors and exploring. If you’re worried that a camping weekend might be too rustic, check out some of these lovely rentals with hot tubs. Spend your days fishing, hiking along the coast, horseback riding, bike riding and more, and enjoy a hot soak to relax your tired muscles.

Looking for a fun couples weekend? Romantic glamping with a hot tub can be a wonderful bonding experience as you enjoy the fresh air outdoors together, soaking your cares away. It’s a wonderful choice for London honeymoon packages.

Glamping Huts

Glamping huts give you the best of both worlds: time in nature, and a secure, cozy place to spend the evening. A camping hut, bungalow, mini cabin or cabana – whatever you want to call it – is a relaxing place to spend your holiday and offers you the security of a sturdy roof over your head. Due to them having better insulation, there are glamping huts found right across the UK including winter huts in the off seasons.

Glamping in an Airstream

Airstreams have gained a legion of fans across the globe, and for good reason. They’re a unique and fun way to spend time outdoors, and a wonderful way for beginner glampers to start.

Glamping in Safari Tents

Leave your cooler and sleeping bag at home, all you’ll need is an overnight bag when you stay in a high end glamping tent. This kind of glamping experience can come with heated floors, outdoor hot tubs, extraordinary sea views, a private ensuite bathroom, and free wireless internet access.

For me, staying in a safari tent brings images of royalty crossing the vast Sahara desert, or adventurers on a great journey across South America.

Glamping in Cornwall

Cornwall is known for its spectacular beaches and pounding surf set along a dramatic coastline. It’s also home to wonderful restaurants that serve the iconic Cornish pasty and cream teas.

Glamping in Cornwall takes advantage of these wonderful views and there’s a ton of options for every budget.

UK Camping with Sea Views

With over 12,000 km (or 7,500 miles) of coastline, the United Kingdom’s coast offers plenty of glamping with sea views.

You can stroll along the quiet beaches of the North Norfolk Coast. If you’re more in the mood for stunning views, Cornwall has plenty of them, as does the rest of the South West Coastal Path.

Dorset is a destination with a lot to offer, where you can pick fossils by the sea, or simply enjoy an afternoon strolling among scenic Dorset wineries.

Quirky Glamping in the UK

If you can imagine it, there’s likely a quirky camping experience in the UK that will meet your imagination.

Unique glamping in the UK ranges from overnights in a converted dairy barn to a cottage that looks like it could be inhabited by fairies, to a luxury safari tent overlooking the sea.

You can even choose to glamp in a houseboat as a unique hideaway. That’s one of the more unusual glamping experiences that I’ve seen.

Where is the Best Glamping in the UK?

Glamping in the UK offers experiences as diverse as staying in a seaside cottage, overnighting in a luxury airstream caravan on a working farm, or in a yurt enjoying festivals live near Chester.

So really, the best glamping in the UK allows you to see and do what matters the most to you. Whether by the sea or inland, in a modest tent or in a full on luxury retreat depends more on your budget than anything. They are as unique as you are, and there’s something for every taste.

With so many different types of glamping available, you’re sure to find a glamping option that’s perfect just for you.

Where would you love to go glamping? Let us know in the comments. We’d love to hear from you!

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