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The States Most Obsessed With Outdoor Fun, Based on Google Searches

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Thursday, September 25th 2025 at 23:28 GMT by Mental Floss
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The Great Outdoors of America: What Makes These States the Ultimate Adventure Hubs

When most people think of the “great outdoors,” the image that pops into mind is a sprawling national park, a snow‑capped peak, or a winding trail that stretches to the horizon. A recent feature on Mental Floss titled “Most Outdoorsy States” does exactly that—ranking every U.S. state based on the abundance of natural wonders, outdoor recreation infrastructure, and the sheer amount of time people spend in nature. The result is a list that reads almost like a cheat sheet for adventure seekers, and it turns out that Alaska tops the chart by a landslide, with a few surprising up‑and‑comers that rival even the Alaskan frontier.

1. Alaska – The Ultimate Wilderness Playground

Alaska is no surprise at the top of the list. The state is a 663,300‑square‑mile wilderness that’s home to eight national parks and twelve national monuments—more than all other states combined. The Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act of 1980 set aside a staggering 55 % of the state as protected land, ensuring that visitors can hike through untouched tundra, fish in crystal‑clear rivers, and even see the northern lights in the same breath.

In addition to its massive protected areas, Alaska boasts the longest National Forest in the United States—the Tongass, which spans more than 16 million acres. That forest alone houses over 90 % of the world’s temperate rainforests. For the avid outdoors person, Alaska offers a dizzying array of activities: from glacier trekking and wildlife safaris to white‑water rafting and dog‑sledding. No wonder Mental Floss counts it as the “most outdoorsy” state.

2. Wyoming – The Birthplace of Yellowstone

Next up is Wyoming, a state that’s forever associated with the pioneering spirit of the American West. Wyoming’s claim to fame is that it hosts the entire Yellowstone National Park—America’s first national park, and a place where geysers, hot springs, and wildlife coexist in a raw, unfiltered landscape.

What makes Wyoming stand out beyond Yellowstone is its sheer wilderness coverage. Over 70 % of the state is public land—primarily national forests, national monuments, and wilderness areas. The state also has the largest contiguous wilderness area in the United States: the Grand Teton Wilderness, covering over 800,000 acres.

Outdoor enthusiasts find endless opportunities in Wyoming: hiking, backcountry skiing, rock climbing, and even stargazing on the clear nights that are some of the darkest in the country. Plus, the state’s small population (under 600 k) means that the national parks often feel less crowded than they would in other states.

3. Colorado – Rocky Mountains and Beyond

Colorado’s inclusion is hardly a surprise. The Rocky Mountains dominate the western half of the state, and the national forest system there covers a remarkable 13 % of the land. Colorado is home to 13 national forests and 11 national monuments, as well as a string of iconic peaks—Mount Elbert, Pikes Peak, and the granite walls of Rocky Mountain National Park.

Colorado’s popularity as an outdoor destination is driven by a few key factors:

• Trail miles: With more than 10,000 miles of hiking, biking, and equestrian trails, Colorado offers something for everyone, from seasoned trekkers to families looking for a day hike.
• Recreation density: The state has one of the highest per‑capita densities of ski resorts—over 200,000 visitors each winter.
• Urban‑outdoor synergy: Cities like Denver and Boulder have world‑class parks, community trails, and easy access to the mountains, making the outdoors a daily part of many residents’ lives.

4. Montana – The Big Sky State’s Outdoor Pulse

Montana is often dubbed “Big Sky Country,” and the name says a lot. The state is home to two of the most beloved national parks in the country: Glacier National Park and Yellowstone (shared with Wyoming). In addition, Montana’s state park system is the largest in the country by acreage, and the state’s forests cover more than 25 % of its territory.

Outdoor enthusiasts love Montana for its wide-open spaces, rugged mountains, and abundant wildlife. It’s a premier destination for fly‑fishing, backcountry skiing, and horseback riding, and the state’s low population density (just over 10 k people per square mile) keeps the crowds at bay.

5. Utah – The Land of 19 National Parks

If you think Utah’s outdoor appeal is limited to the Grand Canyon, think again. Utah’s 19 national parks, monuments, and historic sites make it the most parks‑dense state per capita. The state’s iconic red rock landscapes—from Arches to Zion to Bryce Canyon—are a photographer’s dream.

The Great Salt Lake, the largest salt lake in the world, sits in Utah’s northwest corner, while the Uinta Mountains offer a range of high‑elevation adventures. Whether it’s hiking to the top of Delicate Arch or riding a mountain bike through the desert, Utah’s natural wonders are as varied as they are beautiful.

6. Idaho – The Outdoor Enthusiast’s Haven

Idaho may not be a household name like California or Colorado, but it’s a top‑tier destination for outdoor lovers. The state has more than 300,000 acres of national forests, including the Sawtooth and Bitterroot ranges. Idaho’s outdoor culture thrives on hiking, fishing, and mountain biking, especially in the rugged Boise foothills and the scenic Ketchum area.

Idaho also boasts the largest concentration of hot springs in the contiguous United States—a hidden gem for those looking to relax after a day in the backcountry.

7. Arizona – A Desert Paradise

Arizona’s ranking is a testament to the sheer scale of its national parks. The Grand Canyon National Park alone covers more than 1.2 million acres. But Arizona is also a playground for desert and high‑mountain adventures: from the towering red rocks of Sedona to the alpine peaks of the San Juan Mountains.

The state’s extensive network of state parks and forests—such as the Grand Canyon-Parashant National Monument and the Kaibab National Forest—offer activities ranging from rock climbing to stargazing. The state’s low population density ensures that the desert can still feel like a frontier.

8. California – The Golden State’s Green Side

California’s rank as the eighth most outdoorsy state is not a fluke. With 36 national parks and 20 national monuments, California is the most populous state with the largest number of federal protected lands. The state’s geographic diversity—from the coastal fog of Big Sur to the snow‑capped peaks of the Sierra Nevada—provides an endless menu of outdoor experiences.

The state’s extensive state park system, which covers over 1 million acres, ensures that even residents who cannot leave the city can find a nearby trail or beach. Whether it’s biking along the Pacific Coast Trail, hiking in Yosemite, or kayaking in the Redwood forests, California’s outdoor culture is as robust as its tech industry.

9. Oregon – Trail‑Lover’s Dream

Oregon’s 23 national forests cover 17 million acres, making it the state with the highest forested area per capita. The state’s trail network spans more than 7,000 miles, from the rugged coastline of Cannon Beach to the high desert of the Wallowa Mountains.

Oregon is famous for its state parks—most notably the Multnomah Falls and the Oregon Trail, a 2,170‑mile route that is a living reminder of the westward expansion. The state’s focus on conservation, with a strong emphasis on protecting the environment, keeps the outdoor experience pristine.

10. Washington – Mountain Majesty

Washington’s final spot is reserved for a state that has been a hub of outdoor activity for decades. With over 70 million acres of public land and 9 national parks, the state offers a mix of lush temperate rainforests, alpine peaks, and rugged coastlines. The Cascade Range runs the entire length of the state, providing a playground for mountaineers and skiers.

Mount Rainier National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is Washington’s crown jewel, drawing millions of visitors each year to its glacier‑covered peak. The state’s commitment to conservation is evident in its many protected areas and its high per‑capita outdoor recreation spending.

Why the Ranking Matters

The Mental Floss ranking is more than a list of trivia; it offers a window into how natural resources shape culture, economy, and lifestyle. States that score highly on this list typically see a strong tourism sector tied to outdoor recreation, a robust network of conservation policies, and a culture that values time spent in nature.

From a public‑health perspective, these states also benefit from higher rates of physical activity and mental well‑being among residents. According to the CDC, people who spend at least 150 minutes a week in outdoor exercise are less likely to suffer from depression, anxiety, or chronic diseases.

On a practical level, the article encourages travelers to look beyond the “usual” hotspots and consider places like Idaho or Utah, where the cost of adventure may be lower and the crowds thinner. The ranking also highlights the importance of preserving public lands—an issue that has gained fresh urgency in recent years with increasing demand for recreational space and growing environmental concerns.

Takeaway

Whether you’re an avid backpacker, a family looking for a weekend getaway, or a retiree who simply loves a good hike, the states that top this list are the most generous in what nature has to offer. And if you’re wondering where to start your next outdoor adventure, let the Mental Floss rankings guide your itinerary—and then step outside. The greatest adventures are waiting in the very places we often think of as “just a state.”