Outdoors

The Compass: August/September


A guide to the destinations and experiences on our radar.

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Published

27 Aug 2025

Reading Time

3 minutes

Visit Sun Valley

Escape to a mountain town that trades pretense for presence. In Sun Valley, fall is a well-kept secret—quiet trails, golden aspens, warm days, and cool nights. Without a freeway in sight, you’ll find world-class recreation, art, and locally owned flavor tucked into a vibrant, laid-back community. Fewer crowds mean more room to roam, better dinner reservations, and deeper connections with locals. With nonstop flights from cities like L.A., San Francisco, and Denver, getting here is easy. Staying longer feels natural. Come for the adventure, stay for the soul. Sun Valley: an original mountain town that still flies under the radar.

visitsunvalley.com

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Visit Grand County

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In Grand County, Colorado, wild isn’t just a landscape—it’s a mindset. Located just 67 miles from Denver, this alpine escape invites visitors to slow down and reconnect with nature. Whether it’s lakeside kayaking, stargazing from a dude ranch, or dancing to live music at a local farmers market, adventure comes naturally here. With six distinct towns, endless trails, and wide-open skies, Grand County is the source of your next adventure.

visitgrandcounty.com

Visit Idaho

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In Idaho, whitewater isn’t just a thrill—it’s a way of life. With 3,100 miles of navigable whitewater, this untamed state offers more wild water than anywhere else in the Lower 48. With long summer days, it’s prime time to explore towering canyon corridors, paddle through remote stretches of pristine wilderness, and soak up endless scenic views. From the legendary Salmon to the iconic Snake, the relatively unknown Bruneau to the highly sought-after Selway, Idaho’s whitewater rivers aren’t just places to explore—they’re stories waiting to be lived.

visitidaho.org

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