Photo by Dmitriy Piskarev

Summer is a time for adventure. And with the season fast approaching many explorers are in search of their next adventure. For explorers like those who love sherpa, there's no better combo than the great outdoors and the soothing effects of legal, hemp-derived edibles. With less than 0.3% THC based on dry weight, these products offer a legal way to unwind.

While the US has declared these hemp-derived products federally legal, some states have placed additional regulations on Canna goods. So, how do you know which cities and states will be friendly to your relaxation choices or relief options? We have a guide for that! We’ve gathered our top 7 choices for vacation destinations in the US. These locations are guaranteed to offer outdoors adventure in a hemp-friendly environment. 

Photo by Amaury Michaux

• Rocky Mountain National Park: Just a short drive from Denver, this park offers over 355 miles of hiking trails, breathtaking landscapes, and wildlife viewing.
• Cherry Creek State Park: Perfect for camping, boating, and fishing, this park provides a serene getaway within the city limits. The prairie-like rolling hills offer variety amidst the rocky mountain landscape. Just know that summer gets busy and if you plan on camping, you’ll have to call ahead. 

Photo by MICHAEL MCGARRY

2. Portland, Oregon

Why It's Great:

Must-Do Activities:

• Forest Park: One of the largest urban forests in the U.S Forest Park offers over 70 miles of pristine trails within Portland city limits. If you’d like to help out the continuing effort to conserve the natural beauty of one of the Pacific Northwest’s most beautiful forests, you can even volunteer to plant trees or clean trails on a work party. 
• Columbia River Gorge: If you’re a generation Xer or an older millennial, you might remember the Columbia River as the final boss on your Oregon Trail computer game journey. The actual gorge, however, is breathtakingly beautiful. A short drive from Portland, this stunning area features waterfalls, hiking trails, and panoramic views. Not to worry, hiking here offers no fear of hitting your wagon against the rocks. 

Relaxation Spots:

• Cannabis-Friendly Accommodations: Many hotels and Airbnbs in Portland are cannabis-friendly, allowing you to enjoy your hemp-derived edibles in comfort after a day of exploration. From true Bud ‘n Breakfasts like The Doctor’s House to more traditional style hotels like The Jupiter Hotel, you’ll find plenty of canna accommodations in and near the bustling city center.

Photo by Chait Goli

• Mount Rainier National Park: With its stunning vistas and extensive hiking trails, this National Park is a must visit for anyone staying in Seattle. 
• Discovery Park: Located within the city, this park offers 534 acres of natural beauty, including beaches, cliffs, and forests. Urban convenience and pristine natural beauty side by side. 

• Cannabis Tours: Seattle is so accommodating the canna lovers that they’ve spawned a new tourism industry. The city now offers a variety of cannabis tours including the original “Cannabus” tour. These voyages into the city’s canna culture  include visits to dispensaries, grow operations, and scenic spots perfect for enjoying your edibles.

Photo by ALTEREDSNAPS 

• Blue Ridge Parkway: If you’re looking for a nice, lazy drive on a Sunday, this parkway that runs right through Ashville and into the mountains beyond has you covered. This scenic drive offers stunning views, hiking trails, and picnic spots.
• Pisgah National Forest: Ideal for hiking, camping, and waterfall chasing, Pisgah is a paradise for outdoor lovers. Just be careful not to chase too many waterfalls while enjoying your edible treats. 

Relaxation Spots:
Local Breweries: If you like to mix your hemp with some great, locally brewed beer, this might be your favorite city on the list. Asheville breweries like the Wicked Weed Brewery  are known for incorporating hemp into their products, providing a unique way to enjoy your edibles while sampling local brews.

Photo by Kalei Winfield

6. Burlington, Vermont

Why It's Great:
Burlington is a picturesque town on the shores of Lake Champlain, surrounded by mountains and renowned for its outdoor activities and farm-to-table food culture. Vermont's laws allow for the use of hemp-derived products, making it a perfect spot for cannabis-friendly travelers.

Must-Do Activities:

• Lake Champlain: While Vermont is known as a skier and snowboarder’s paradise, Lake Champlain offers many fun Summer opportunities too. Known as America’s sixth great lake, Champlain offers boating, fishing, and kayaking on this beautiful lake nestled between the Addaraundaks of New York and Vermont’s green mountains. 
• Green Mountain National Forest: Once the snow has cleared and summer begins, this forest truly comes to life. Hike through lush forests and enjoy the wide variety of wildflowers, native plants and animals. If you choose to vacation in the fall, this is a prime location for viewing stunning multi-colored foliage. 

• Cannabis-Friendly Farms: Many of America’s hemp farms are located in the north east, and several of the largest can be found in and around Vermont. Vermontijuana is just one of several companies offering cannabis farm tours. Tours come with product sampling and the chance to enjoy your edibles in a lovely rustic setting. 

Photo by EG Images

7. Boulder, Colorado

Why It's Great:

We’re back to Colorado. Its beauty and progressive laws make this Rocky Mountain state a true canna lover’s paradise. Boulder is another gem in this state, known for its stunning flatirons, outdoor activities, and relaxed attitude towards cannabis. The city’s proximity to nature makes it a prime destination for those looking to mix adventure with relaxation.

Must-Do Activities:

• Flatirons: These iconic rock formations offer challenging hikes and breathtaking views. If you’re a rock climber, runner or a hiker looking for a great workout with beautiful views, you won’t want to miss the chance to challenge yourself on these. 

• Boulder Creek Path: If you’re looking for something a little more chill on your vacation, Boulder has that too. Boulder Creek Path offers winding bike trails, easy hikes and beautiful picnic spots, perfect for popping a gummy and just relaxing. 

Relaxation Spots:

• Cannabis-Friendly Retreats: Boulder has a variety of retreats and wellness centers that incorporate hemp-derived products into their services, providing a holistic way to relax. If you know 25 friends or a group from work who would like to take a mindfulness retreat, centers like The Center for Medical Mindfulness in Boulder offer small group retreats for special occasions, company outings and more. 

Tips for Enjoying Hemp-Derived Edibles Outdoors

1. Know the Laws: While hemp-derived products are legal federally, state and local laws can vary. Always check the regulations of your destination.

2. Start Low and Go Slow: Edibles can take up to two hours to take effect. Start with a low dose and wait before consuming more.

3. Stay Hydrated: Outdoor activities can be dehydrating, and hemp-derived products can add to that effect. Drink plenty of water.

4. Have Snacks Handy: Edibles can stimulate your appetite, so keep some healthy snacks on hand.

5. Respect Nature: Always follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve the beauty of the places you visit.

Whether you’re scaling a mountain, kayaking on a serene lake, or wandering through a redwood forest, combining the joy of the outdoors with the relaxation of hemp-derived edibles can enhance your experience. These destinations offer the perfect blend of adventure and tranquility, making them ideal for those who love nature and the calming effects of cannabis. So, pack your hiking boots and your favorite Sherpa gummies and get ready for an unforgettable journey.