This New England State Was Just Named the Most Outdoorsy Destination in the U.S.

The fall air is whispering at you through the trees, gently reminding you, “now’s the perfect time to get outside.” Though if you live in one particular New England state, you likely don’t need the reminder. 

In September, the outdoor adventure website Kühl released its list of the most outdoorsy states in the U.S. To understate which state loves to get out for a hike, bike, or a camp most, the team analyzed Google search data for 14 outdoor activities, including fishing, backpacking, birding, skiing, swimming, and kayaking, across each state between August 2024 to August 2025. It then adjusted the results per 100,000 residents to accurately compare populations.

The totals were then used to determine the most outdoorsy state of all—an award that went to Vermont. 

“Vermont’s search activity reflects the state’s culture and traditional connection to the outdoors, so it’s no surprise it ranks as the nation’s most outdoorsy state, with 8,515 searches per 100,000 residents,” the findings revealed. “Even as home to the nation’s oldest long-distance hiking route, Vermontians showed the most interest in skiing, camping, and kayaking.”

And really, now is the perfect time to head to Vermont for a little outdoor adventure, as the state constantly ranks among the best to see fall foliage. But if you just wait a few weeks, it also turns into the top ski destination along the East Coast, too. 

Following closely behind the Green Mountain State is Hawaii, with 7,796 searches per 100,000 residents. “The state’s tropical climate and geography create year-round opportunities for lots of outdoor activities like hiking volcanic trails, morning kayaking to sheltered bays, and surfing the biggest waves you’ve ever seen,” the team shared. “That high level of search interest goes hand-in-hand with Hawaiians’ reputation for an active, outdoor-oriented way of life.” 

Rounding out the top three is one more expected outdoor hit, Colorado, with 7,272 searches per 100,000 residents. “With its combination of Rocky Mountain landscapes, alpine ski resorts, and a wide range of hiking and camping options, Colorado consistently ranks among the top states for outdoor recreation,” the findings noted. Two more well-known outdoorsy destinations, Montana and Oregon, took home fourth and fifth place, respectively. 

As for what outdoor activities Americans are loving most right now, the analysis found that just about everyone is into camping, with 39,975 searches across all states. However, kayaking is in a close second with 38,397 searches, followed by hiking, fishing, and skiing, “highlighting the continued appeal of snow sports among Americans.”