Our Top Picks: Best Places to Travel in June

June is the travel month. Summer is in session, school is out, and fire season hasn’t ruined the whole mood yet. If you’re looking for a place to head outdoors this June, then this list is up your alley. Here’s where we’re looking for this June.

Best Places To Travel In June In The USA

Make way for summer! June is the official start of the summer season and the PERFECT time for summer travelers to visit tons of destinations around the United States. The warm temperatures of the summer months in the northern hemisphere are ideal for outdoor exploring, and the real tourist crowds often don’t arrive until July and August, bringing about better deals and making June the ultimate month to adventure!

Struggling to narrow down the best place to travel in June? We’re dishing out some serious travel inspo and trip ideas around the country so you can kick off your summer travel season in style!

Anchorage, Alaska

June Is Great For: Hiking and Kayaking in Alaska

Mid-June to mid-September is prime time to visit Alaska with extra long days and comfortable summer temperatures, typically between 60 and 70 degrees. Wildflowers are in full bloom and wildlife viewing is incredible this time of year.

Services for tourists in towns like Juneau, Anchorage, and Fairbanks are in full swing come June. Restaurants and shops in town are open for the season, and opportunities for guided tours and outdoor expeditions start to become available. Denali National Park is one of Alaska’s most popular high season destinations. It’s home to the tallest mountain in North America and six million acres of breathtaking landscapes.

What To Do

What’s that sound? It’s Alaska calling your name! Join us for a week-long adventure on Explorer Chick’s Alaska Hiking, Kayaking, and Glacier Tour. You’ll spend seven days exploring all Alaska has to offer on this women-only excursion, including glacier trekking, ice climbing, and wildlife spotting like you won’t believe.

Hike the most scenic trails in the Talkeetna Mountains with your expert Explorer Chick guide. Board a bush plane and strap in! You’re taking a tour of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park from the air and flying over volcanoes, glaciers, and mountains. Spot ocean wildlife on a ferry ride across Prince William Sound, and navigate icebergs while sea kayaking at the base of Columbia Glacier. If it smells like an Alaskan adventure, we’ve got it on the roster!

Minden, West Virginia

June Is Great For: White Water Rafting in New River Gorge National Park

West Virginia’s scenic landscapes and historic sites draw thousands of travelers into the countryside and away from the city every year. Endless opportunities to experience true wilderness make West Virginia the perfect place to get wild in the great outdoors, and mild temperatures in June are extra pleasant before the July and August heat sets in.

New River Gorge National Park, the newest national park in the U.S., was first a national river designated in 1978. The area has long since been popular for summer outdoor activities like mountain biking, off-roading, horseback riding, white water rafting, and gorgeous hiking trails.

What To Do

Explorer Chick’s Wild West Virginia Weekend is everything you need to unplug and fully enjoy that precious paid time off! Set up your tent at our exclusive camp located near the park, and kick off the weekend around the fire with your future besties.

On this trip, YOU are in charge of your adventure! Choose from awesome activities like rock climbing, ziplining, SUP, and swimming at the lake, or an aerial ropes course–it’s totally up to you. On your final full day, you’ll suit up and ship out for the FULL New River Gorge experience! Take on stage five rapids and navigate the white waters of Virginia on this epic rafting excursion.

Red River Gorge, Kentucky

June Is Great For: Backpacking and Rock Climbing “The Red”

Kentucky’s Red River Gorge National Geological Area, fondly known as “The Red,” is a popular destination for rock climbers, backpackers, and hikers alike. Outdoor enthusiasts come from all over the world to get up close to the natural bridges and sandstone cliffs.

June in Kentucky brings warm, sunny days perfect for getting outdoors before the summer crowds really take over. The humidity can sometimes make it feel hotter than the typical 70-80 degrees, but getting out early before the heat makes for a day well spent.

What To Do

Interested in getting started backpacking, but not sure where to begin? Want to brush up on those backcountry skills? Our Red River Gorge Backpacking Workshop is designed with Explorer Chicks like you in mind! We’re going over all things backpacking during this hands-on learning adventure.

Join us as we cover essential gear for backpacking, how to get it all to fit, cooking over a fire, filtering water, and setting up camp in the backcountry. Sunrise hike to Hanson’s Point and choose from even more adventure activities within the park. Your ultra informative Explorer Chick guide will share their expert secrets, and have anyone new to backpacking ready to take on the wilderness!

Best Places To Travel In June Outside The U.S.

Croatia

June Is Great For: Visiting European Beaches in Croatia

Croatia is quickly becoming a popular travel destination. If it’s not already on your bucket list, it should be! Travel & Leisure’s 2016 Reader’s Choice Destination went to none other than this gorgeous Central European country.

Known for its stunning beaches on the coast of the Adriatic Sea, jaw-dropping national parks, and totally mouthwatering food, Croatia also has a rich and diverse history. June is the perfect time to visit with consistently sunny days and warm temperatures. Stroll among the streets of the capital city of Zagreb and breathe in the city’s delicious cuisine and live music scene. Hop on a boat tour to Hvar Island and relax on secluded, undisturbed beaches.

What To Do

Want to join a group of badass chicks on the Euro-trip of a lifetime? Croatia is calling your name, baby! Explorer Chick’s Croatia Hiking National Parks and Multisport Adventure Tour is everything you’ve imagined. Hike the fairytale-like in the Plitvice Lakes and Paklenica National Parks. Split sea kayak among hidden coves and pebbly beaches with plenty of time for swimming and snorkeling. In short, a great time is guaranteed.

Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

June Is Great For: Sunshine and Humpback Whales on the Coast

The Galapagos Islands is one of the best places to witness migrating humpback whales, which can be seen in June, July, and August when the weather is warm enough, just outside the rainy season. This time of year still enjoys great weather, but tends to bring a lot fewer crowds than the peak winter months.

Traveling to the Galapagos in June puts you in the more pleasant dry season. Many of the beaches are secluded and remote, so you can easily find some privacy in a quiet place to kick back and unwind with your favorite book or an island-inspired cocktail.

What To Do

Your vacation bucket list has to include the Galapagos Islands, and we’ve designed the perfect trip to get you there! Explorer Chick’s nine-day Galapagos Islands Tour & Multisport Adventure has ALL the outdoor activities you’d want on a tropical island–and more!

Snorkel, kayak, and hike amidst the natural beauty and untamed wildlife. Have enchanting ocean encounters with tortoises, sea lions, penguins, boobies, and reef sharks–yup, SHARKS! (don’t worry, you’re safe in your kayak). We’ll provide all the gear you need to get outside in the Galapagos. All you need to bring is YOU!

Slovenia

June Is Great For: Europe’s Oldest Jazz Fest in Slovenia

Located in southeastern Europe, Slovenia is known for gorgeous green scenery, sweeping landscapes, and for being one of the cleanest countries in the world. June is a popular time in Slovenia because of the amazing weather, but compared to other Mediterranean destinations the crowds are small and totally tolerable.

The vibrant city of Ljubljana comes alive every June when it plays host to the oldest jazz festival in Europe. The Ljubljana Jazz Festival first started in 1960 and draws musicians from all over the world. The capital city has amazing access to the country’s most beautiful national parks, lakes, and mountains.

What To Do

Want to make the most of your trip to Slovenia? Head out on your next trip with Explorer Chick! Our trip starts in July, so we’ll miss the crowds that come with June. Join our group of ultra-stoked travelers ready for adventure on our all-women’s Slovenia Hut-to-Hut and Wine Country tour.

Trek enchanting trails to your alpine hut home in Triglav National Park among the highest peaks in Slovenia. Explore Lake Bohinj with a sunrise paddle excursion. Sip in the spirits of Slovenia on a bike tour of the local wineries. We have a feeling you won’t want to leave!

Where to Get Travel Information

Travelers know that planning a trip takes effort. Nothing can ruin a family vacation or any trip like a major mishap while you’re traveling. Whether you’re planning a weekend sampling New York City’s finest food or a secluded retreat on a tropical island, it’s important to do your research and know before you go.

Here’s what to look at before you head out on your next adventure:

• Check for any U.S. Travel Advisories that may impact your trip
• Look for the city’s closest airports and direct flights to your destination
• Consider Travel Insurance to cover emergencies and equipment
• Research the city’s public transportation system and research Rental Cars
• Make sure you have entry passes for National and State Parks
• Research historical sites and culturally significant places to visit

Ready to Get Hiking?

Ready for adventure, but not up for traveling solo? Sounds like we’re a match made in heaven! Join a backpacking adventure weekend and hone your wilderness skills with like-minded women. Check some of the world’s most amazing national parks off your bucket list with epic hikes and the glamping accommodations of your dreams.

If you’re looking for a great time with an awesome group of adventurous gals, don’t miss your chance to come get wild with us!

Meet the Writer