November is one of those magical months when the outdoor possibilities are endless, and the crowds are pleasantly thin. If you’re anything like me, you’re probably dreaming of a place where you can soak in those autumn colors, enjoy a crisp hike, or maybe even surf some waves in warmer waters. As an outdoor enthusiast, November has always felt like a unique sweet spot—it’s past peak season in many places, but the weather is still perfect for a range of activities, from rugged mountain treks to relaxed beach days.
For this article, I’ll take you through some of the best November destinations for outdoor activities, spots that I believe offer something truly special at this time of year. Whether it’s scaling iconic peaks, losing yourself in a quiet forest, or just finding a place to breathe in some fresh air, there’s a destination that fits every outdoor desire. Each location I’ll share has its own personality, and I’ve personally had the pleasure of experiencing some, while others are on my own travel wishlist.
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These places are ideal for anyone who’s not quite ready to hibernate indoors yet. As a long-time adventurer, November holds some of my favorite travel memories, and I’m excited to share why these spots should be on your radar. So, if you’re looking for the best destinations for outdoor activities in November, here’s where to go, what to do, and why each of these spots will make your trip unforgettable.
1. Sedona, Arizona – Hiking Among Red Rock Wonders
Mild Temperatures and Dramatic Landscapes
Sedona in November is simply breathtaking. I still remember my first visit here a few years back—it was mid-November, and I arrived early in the morning, the sun just beginning to light up those red rock formations. The mild temperatures make it the perfect time for hiking without the intense Arizona heat that can be brutal in summer. If you’re an avid hiker, you’ll fall in love with trails like Cathedral Rock, Devil’s Bridge, and Boynton Canyon. There’s something about Sedona’s unique landscape that feels like it’s straight out of a movie, and with fewer tourists in November, you can actually savor the peacefulness of these views.
Great for Yoga and Meditation Retreats
Sedona isn’t just for hikers; it’s also known for its “spiritual vortexes”—places where you’re supposed to feel a concentrated energy. Whether or not you buy into the spiritual energy concept, Sedona is undoubtedly calming. I’ve met many people who come here for yoga and meditation retreats. If I could recommend one outdoor retreat destination for November, this would be it; there’s nothing quite like yoga at dawn with towering red rocks in the background.
Mountain Biking Options
For mountain biking enthusiasts, Sedona’s trails are exhilarating. Last November, a friend of mine took on some of the more challenging mountain bike trails here. His excitement about the variety of trails and the red dirt tracks against the iconic landscape made me put mountain biking on my own Sedona bucket list.
2. Moab, Utah – Ideal for Rock Climbing and Stargazing
Rock Climbing in Arches and Canyonlands National Parks
Moab is legendary for outdoor adventure, and November is hands-down one of the best months to experience it. I visited Moab last November for a rock climbing trip, and I can say that the rock walls of Arches and Canyonlands are truly one-of-a-kind. The weather is perfect for climbing, with temperatures cool enough to enjoy a full day on the rocks without overheating.
Off-Roading Adventures
I rented a 4×4 during one of my trips to Moab, and let me tell you, off-roading through those rugged landscapes is unforgettable. This place has some of the best off-roading trails you’ll find anywhere, from easy rides through beautiful valleys to intense routes that test your limits.
Stargazing Without Light Pollution
Moab’s remote location and clear November skies make it an ideal stargazing destination. On one trip, I joined a small stargazing tour, and I was blown away by how clear the Milky Way appeared. This is a bucket-list experience for anyone who loves the night sky.
3. Costa Rica – Beach and Jungle Adventures
Surfing in Tamarindo and Santa Teresa
Costa Rica’s Pacific coast in November marks the beginning of the dry season, which means amazing waves for surfers. A friend of mine swears by the breaks in Tamarindo, which she says are perfect for beginners, while more advanced surfers love Santa Teresa. I tried my hand at surfing in Costa Rica once, and while I can’t say I was a natural, the warm waters and friendly locals made it worth the effort.
Ziplining Through Rainforests
If you’re more of an adrenaline junkie, Costa Rica’s rainforests have some of the best ziplining courses in the world. There’s nothing like the feeling of gliding above lush canopies with the Pacific Ocean in the background.
Hiking in Arenal Volcano National Park
Arenal Volcano is a hiker’s paradise. I remember hiking here and being completely captivated by the sights and sounds of the rainforest. November is particularly beautiful here because you can still catch some rain in the mornings, making the forest incredibly green and vibrant.
4. Iceland – Glacier Hikes and Northern Lights
Exploring Glacier Caves
If you’re up for a unique outdoor adventure, Iceland is amazing in November. The glacier caves start to open up this month, allowing visitors to explore surreal ice formations. It’s unlike anything else I’ve done, and the experience of stepping inside a glacier was, to me, completely humbling.
Northern Lights Viewing
November is prime time for the Northern Lights in Iceland. On my first trip to Iceland, I remember standing outside, bundled up against the cold, waiting for the lights. When they finally appeared, they were breathtaking, dancing across the sky in shades of green and pink.
Hiking the South Coast
For hikers, Iceland’s South Coast offers rugged terrain and stunning waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss. The landscapes here feel like something out of a dream, and November gives them a more mystical, almost otherworldly, vibe.
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5. New Zealand – Adventure Capital of the Southern Hemisphere
Whitewater Rafting in Rotorua
November is late spring in New Zealand, making it the perfect time for outdoor water sports. Rotorua, in particular, is famous for its whitewater rafting opportunities. I’ve yet to try this, but friends who have tell me that the rapids are heart-pounding, especially after the winter thaw.
Hiking in Fiordland National Park
Fiordland is known for its remote, dramatic scenery, and hiking here is an experience unlike any other. The Milford Track is one of the world’s great walks, and November means you can enjoy it before the full summer crowds arrive.
Skydiving in Queenstown
Queenstown is the adventure capital of New Zealand, and November weather is ideal for skydiving. I’ve only dreamed about jumping out of a plane, but a friend who did it here said it was like falling into a postcard, with views of Lake Wakatipu and the Southern Alps that were simply unreal.
6. Savannah, Georgia – Coastal Trails and Southern Charm
Exploring Forsyth Park and the Historic District
Savannah is not only known for its stunning historic architecture but also for its beautiful outdoor spaces. I visited in November, when the temperatures are mild, making it perfect for leisurely strolls through Forsyth Park. The leaves were changing colors, and the park was alive with families and joggers enjoying the lovely weather.
Kayaking in the Marshes
One of my favorite experiences in Savannah was kayaking in the coastal marshes. The waterways are serene and teeming with wildlife, including herons and dolphins. I went with a local guide who shared stories about the ecosystem, which made it even more enjoyable. November is an excellent time for this activity, as the weather is pleasant and the water is relatively calm.
Biking the Islands
If you’re looking for a unique way to explore, consider biking on nearby Tybee Island. The flat terrain makes it accessible, and there are beautiful trails along the coast where you can enjoy views of the Atlantic. I took a sunset ride here, and the sight of the sun dipping into the ocean was unforgettable.
7. Patagonia, Chile – Wilderness and Stunning Landscapes
Trekking in Torres del Paine National Park
November is the beginning of spring in Patagonia, which means the landscapes are bursting with life. The weather is unpredictable, but on my trip there, I encountered everything from sunny skies to sudden rain showers. I trekked in Torres del Paine National Park, which features some of the most stunning mountain scenery I’ve ever seen.
Wildlife Watching
Patagonia is also fantastic for wildlife viewing. I remember spotting guanacos and even a few condors soaring high above. If you’re lucky, you might see a puma, although I can say that spotting one takes a lot of patience and a bit of luck!
Kayaking in Glacier Lagoons
One of the highlights of my Patagonia adventure was kayaking in the turquoise waters of Grey Lake, surrounded by icebergs calving from the Grey Glacier. The sound of the ice cracking and the view of the glacier up close were both exhilarating and humbling.
Conclusion
November offers such a diverse range of outdoor destinations that it’s hard to pick just one. From the red rocks of Sedona and the rugged landscapes of Moab to the exotic rainforests of Costa Rica and the breathtaking glaciers of Iceland, there’s truly something for everyone. Each location has its own vibe, and the experiences are just as varied—from surfing and skydiving to hiking and glacier exploring.
So, if you’re an adventurer at heart, consider planning your trip around one of these destinations. Whether you’re after the serenity of a remote trail or the thrill of a daring climb, November is waiting to give you memories you won’t forget.