Exploring the mountains is a great way to spend your summer. The air is cleaner, the grass is greener, and you will see extraordinary landscapes. It is a great way to get in shape, meet interesting people, and experience new things. Here are the best ways to explore the mountains this summer. 

Explore Banff, Alberta

Banff is located in the Canadian Rockies and there are many exciting places to visit. Take a tour or explore on your own. Head to Sulphur Mountain and take a gondola ride to see the breathtaking view below. Lake Louise is a stunning emerald green lake that must be seen to be believed. Stay at the Château Lake Louise for a night and wake up to the breathtaking view of this lake surrounded by mountains. Rent canoes so that you can enjoy these peaceful and serene waters on your own, or hike on the trails that surround the lake. Rent a car and drive along the The Icefields Parkway (Highway 93), one of the most beautiful highways in the world. Join a tour for the Icefields and you can head out onto the ice on a huge truck with wheels that have no problem traversing the ice. 

Work In A European Summer Villa 

Working in a summer villa in Europe is a great way to spend your summer and earh money at the same time. It is easy to get jobs in housekeeping, restaurant work, or general customer service. Make sure you do your research beforehand. Find out what credentials you will need to work in the country that you choose to work in and if accommodation is part of the job. It is a great way to meet people and experience new things in a beautiful mountainous setting. 

White Water Rafting in the Mountains of Colorado 

Take a trip to Colorado, USA to experience the thrill of living in the mountains. You can try white water rafting, zip lining, trekking, ride mountain bikes, horseback riding, hot air ballooning, and many other adventures. Make sure you visit Vail and Aspen before leaving the area. 

    
Multi Activity Holiday In French Alps

The French Alps is a great place if you want to try many different activities this summer. You can head to the slopes in Les Trois Vallees, Paradiski, or Les Portes du Soleil and try hiking, mountain biking, and climbing, amongst other activities. Make sure you take the time to explore the many wonderful French villages and indulge in fine wine and expertly prepared food. You can also visit Lake Geneva and try swimming, wind surfing, rowing, sailing, or scuba diving. If you’re adventurous, be sure to zipline in Morzine. 

Photo: Lars Wagoner

Try Mountain Biking

Mountain biking is a great way to explore the mountains and if you can ride a bike you can head to the mountains. There are different levels of trails depending on your experience, and you can head to Whistler, BC, Canada, the Swiss Alps, Scotland, or anywhere that offers mountain biking trails in the summer. Many ski hills run their lifts for bikers - get a ride part of the way up so you can explore further than you might be able to ride on your own in a day. 

What's your favorite mountain to explore, in summer?