Stretching 160 miles through Utah, the Wasatch Range makes a rugged, glacial backdrop for the 85% of the state’s population living within 15 miles. Mount Nebo is highest at 11,928 feet, but the peaks around Alta and Park City are most popular. "The greatest snow on earth" falls on these spectacular slopes. Lone Peak’s granite outcrops provide top climbing. Canyons and valleys are loved by fly-fishermen and hikers. After all that adventure, retire to a hip restaurant or enticing hot tub in chic Park City.

Expert skiers will love Snowbird, which offers some of the steepest and most exhilarating runs in the United States. However, there are also less intimidating slopes for less experienced skiers, and even those who don't ski will enjoy the mountain's breathtaking views.

Only 35 minutes from the SLC Airport, Park City's rugged beauty is complemented by over 100 restaurants and bars, open air concerts, numerous spas and health clubs, plays, independent film screenings, a series of world-class events and festivals, and as many kinds of lodging as there are people. If you're into thrills, try out the summertime version of the bobsled at the Utah Olympic Park or challenge yourself at one of several area golf courses.

The city was named after fearless fur-trader and adventurer, Peter Skene Ogden, who explored the untamed area in the 1820s. Since then, Ogden has seen poverty and prosperity, conflict and celebration. Today, although a more subdued and modern place, the city is still big on action and adventure the whole family can enjoy. Take the kids to ogle the more than 100 life-size replicas of pre-historic creatures at the Ogden Dinosaur Park and Museum. Or head to the Tree House Museum, one of the best of its kind in the U.S. Adults will find plenty to enjoy on local golf courses or hiking trails in the summer, and everyone will love the local winter ski resorts. A grand old depot, Union Station is a must see for history buffs and anyone interested in trains and railroads. Be sure to stroll along 25th Street downtown. This historic block was the center of activity in the early 20th-century and is home to many restored buildings from the railroad era. The street also boasts an eclectic mix of restaurants, one-of-a kind shops, antique stores and art galleries.

The landscape of Hilo, on the Big Island of Hawaii, is diverse. Beaches of black, gray, brown and white sand give way to mountains and dramatic waterfalls. Hilo's Pana'ewa Rainforest Zoo is the only U.S. zoo in a tropical rainforest. A day trip away are snow-capped Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, with observatories near 11,000 feet on both mountains, and Kilauea Caldera, an active volcano. Back in town are a farmer's market, restaurants, shopping and banyan trees planted by celebrities and politicians.

Life on the Big Island is a little bit slower… and locals like it that way. The natural beauty and ecological features of the island are a draw for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Test your chutzpah at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, home to the longest volcanic eruption in recorded history, or climb to the indescribably beautiful summit of Mauna Kea. At the end of the day, there’s nothing more refreshing than a quivering plate of fresh poke, followed by a fruity shave ice.