June 13, 2025

Where to Enjoy the Great Outdoors as a Healthcare Traveler

One of the best parts of life on the road as a travel nurse or allied health traveler is exploring the great outdoors wherever you go. From weekend hikes to post-shift paddle boarding, your travel assignment is a front-row seat to some of the most scenic spots in the country. Plus, getting outdoors isn’t just good for your travel bucket list—it’s a proven way to reduce stress, boost your mental health, and recharge between shifts.

Whether you’re craving sandy beaches, red rock trails, alpine lakes, or forest escapes, every U.S. region has something special to offer.

This guide breaks down the best outdoor recreation in every region, spotlighting can’t-miss experiences for every kind of adventurer. Read on to discover your next favorite place to explore while on assignment.

Best Outdoor Activities in the Northeast for Healthcare Travelers

Clear waters of Jordan Pond with views of the Bubbles mountains in Acadia National Park, Maine on a sunny day — *Jordan Pond in Acadia National Park, Maine*

Known for forested hikes, coastal trails, and iconic fall foliage, the Northeast offers healthcare travelers peaceful getaways year-round. Whether strolling rocky shorelines in summer or leaf-peeping in autumn, this region has plenty of outdoor serenity.

Where to Go in the Northeast:

Acadia National Park, Maine: Coastal cliffs and ocean views meet rugged forest hikes. Don’t miss watching the sunrise from Cadillac Mountain.
Green Mountains, Vermont: Covered bridges, summit trails, and unbeatable fall color make this a New England classic.
Letchworth State Park, New York: Nicknamed the “Grand Canyon of the East,” this park features three major waterfalls and dramatic gorges.
Ricketts Glen State Park, Pennsylvania: Hike past more than 20 waterfalls on one of the region’s most scenic loops.

Can’t-Miss Experience: Hike Mount Monadnock in New Hampshire, one of the most climbed mountains in the world, offering gorgeous views and miles of trails for every level of hiker.

Check out TNAA’s available jobs in the Northeast.

Southeast Outdoor Adventures for Travel Assignments

Cascading waters of Cheaha Falls flowing through a rocky forest trail in Cheaha State Park, Alabama — *Cheaha Falls in Cheaha State Park, Alabama*

From lush forests to crystal-clear swimming holes, the Southeast is packed with outdoor adventure for travelers. Mild winters and hot summers mean year-round access to river trails, mountain overlooks, and waterfall hikes.

Where to Go in the Southeast:

Pisgah National Forest, North Carolina: A traveler favorite for kayaking, hiking to epic waterfalls, and exploring Blue Ridge views near Asheville.
Tallulah Gorge State Park, Georgia: Hike deep into a canyon and cross a suspension bridge over rushing waters.
Congaree National Park, South Carolina: Quiet boardwalks and kayaking through ancient floodplains make this a peaceful escape.
Cheaha State Park, Alabama: Climb to Alabama’s highest point and enjoy scenic forest trails with minimal crowds.

Can’t-Miss Experience: Paddle through Florida’s glowing bioluminescent bays under the summer stars, a once-in-a-lifetime natural light show.

Check out TNAA’s available jobs in the Southeast.

Midwest Outdoor Recreation for Healthcare Travelers

Devil’s Lake surrounded by quartzite bluffs and forested hiking trails in Wisconsin on a clear summer day — *Devil’s Lake State Park, Wisconsin*

From dramatic bluffs to lakeshore beaches, the Midwest is packed with opportunities for hiking, paddling, and scenic escapes that healthcare travelers love.

Where to Go:

Devil’s Lake State Park, Wisconsin: Towering bluffs and glacial lakes make this a standout for hiking, rock climbing, and swimming.
Indiana Dunes National Park, Indiana: Explore dunes, wetlands, and lakeshore trails along the shores of Lake Michigan.
Starved Rock State Park, Illinois: Waterfalls, sandstone canyons, and scenic overlooks make this a must for outdoor lovers.
Hocking Hills State Park, Ohio: A serene forest escape with caves, waterfalls, and rugged hiking trails.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio: A hidden gem for biking, birdwatching, and peaceful river views between Cleveland and Akron.

Can’t-Miss Experience: Take a fall foliage road trip through Wisconsin’s Driftless Area for rolling hills, winding rivers, and vibrant views.

Check out TNAA’s available jobs in the Midwest.

Southwest Hiking and Outdoor Enjoyment on Assignment

Expansive white gypsum sand dunes under a bright blue sky at White Sands National Park, New Mexico — *White Sands National Park, New Mexico*

The Southwest is a dream for adventurous travelers who love wide-open spaces, red rock formations, and dramatic sunsets. From slot canyons to stargazing, this region offers unforgettable outdoor escapes.

Where to Go in the Southwest:

White Sands National Park, New Mexico: Explore endless gypsum dunes that glow at sunrise and sunset.
Chiricahua National Monument, Arizona: Towering rock pinnacles and quiet desert trails await in this off-the-beaten-path monument.
Palo Duro Canyon, Texas: The second-largest canyon in the U.S., with colorful cliffs and hiking trails.
Organ Mountains–Desert Peaks National Monument, New Mexico: Hike through desert valleys framed by jagged mountain backdrops.

Can’t-Miss Experience: Catch the sunset at Cathedral Rock in Sedona, then stargaze under some of the darkest skies in the U.S.

Check out TNAA’s available jobs in the Southwest.

Best Outdoor Escapes in the Western U.S. for Travel Nurses

Alpine lake reflecting snow-capped peaks and evergreen forests in North Cascades National Park, Washington — *North Cascades National Park, Washington*

From alpine lakes to hot springs, the western U.S. is the mecca of outdoor escapes for healthcare travelers on assignment. With national parks, rugged trails, and dramatic coastline, there’s no shortage of natural beauty to explore.

Where to Go in the Western U.S.:

North Cascades National Park, Washington: Jagged peaks, alpine lakes, and solitude for days.
Crater Lake National Park, Oregon: Hike the rim or take a boat tour across the country’s deepest lake.
Sawtooth Wilderness, Idaho: Remote peaks, wildflower meadows, and pristine alpine trails make this a bucket-list destination.
Great Basin National Park, Nevada: Ancient bristlecone pines, glacier-carved mountains, and stargazing without city lights.

Can’t-Miss Experience: Spend a summer day kayaking or paddle boarding on Lake Tahoe’s crystal-clear waters surrounded by Sierra peaks.

Check out TNAA’s available jobs in the West.

Explore With TNAA

Whether you’re drawn to quiet lakes, red rock cliffs, forest canopies, or desert skies, there’s a perfect outdoor escape waiting in every region. Get outside, recharge, and make every travel assignment an adventure.

Plus, when you travel with you’re traveling with an agency that has your back every step of the way. Housing, credentialing, benefits, sick leave – we’ve got you covered. All you have to do is pack your bags and plan your next road trip between assignments.

Ready to secure your next assignment and take on the great outdoors? Check out TNAA’s available jobs and apply today!