Summer is approaching and adventure awaits you at every turn. Imagine the spray of water on your face as you navigate rapids, the thrill of reeling in a catch on a sunny sea, or the wind in your hair as you hike scenic trails. This season, answer the call of the wild with our guide to the most amazing summer activities, from serene boat trips to thrilling whitewater rafting.
To help you plan your biggest adventure, USA TODAY 10Best asked readers to vote for the best outdoor adventures in nine categories, and the results are in.
Click on each category below to see the full list of winners:
Best Adventure Tour Operator: Wild Women Expeditions
Wild Women Expeditions specializes in “incredible outdoor adventures for all women.” The company operates trips to more than two dozen countries around the world, with activities including canoeing, kayaking, biking, hiking, surfing, sailing and yoga.
Learn more: Best travel insurance
Full list of winners: Best Adventure Tour Operator »
Best Aerial Adventure Park: Botanical World Adventures in Hakalau, Hawaii
See Hawaii from a new perspective as you zoom down eight ziplines that stretch above and through the rainforest canopy at Botanical World Adventures. Hover over waterfalls, pools and flowering trees and observe exotic plants in the gardens.
The ziplines get faster and longer as you fly through the jungle, and the ride includes two side-by-side ziplines that let you race your friends to the finish! This experience is ideal for young and old and for all levels of zipping expertise.
Full list of winners: Best Aerial Adventure Park »
Best Bike Tour: Carolina Tailwinds
Carolina Tailwinds offers multi-day, inn-to-inn cycling tours to destinations primarily in the Eastern United States, all cycling vacations offering a good balance of physical activity and relaxation.
From flat and easy to hilly and challenging, there are cycling routes to choose from for all levels of cyclists. Guests stay in boutique hotels and country inns, with breakfasts and most lunches and dinners included.
Full list of winners: Best bike tour »
Best Boat Tour: Chicago First Lady Cruises in Chicago, Illinois
The Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard Chicago's First Lady is led by highly trained guides. During this 90-minute cruise, you'll hear highlights of the city's history, including stories about the visionaries who shaped Chicago's skyline. Options include daytime tours and evening cocktail cruises.
Full list of winners: Best boat trip »
Best Fishing Charter: Hubbard Marina in Madeira Beach, Florida
In operation since 1928, Hubbard's Marina is one of the leading authorities on water recreation along Florida's Gulf Coast. Fishing trips range from half-day escapades to 44-hour marathon excursions under the glow of the full moon. Beyond the reel realm, guests can also take sunset cruises, dolphin tours, and even camping trips on beautiful Shell Key.
Full list of winners: Best Fishing Charter »
Best Helicopter Tour: Island Helicopters Kauai in Lihue, Hawaii
There are few things more picturesque than seeing the world from a helicopter, and the splendor of Kauai makes an ideal backdrop. Experienced pilots from Island Helicopters share information about Kauai while enjoying bird's-eye views of lush greenery, waterfalls, coastlines and famous landmarks.
Full list of winners: Best Helicopter Tour »
Best Hot Air Balloon Ride: Grand Adventure Hot Air Balloon Tours in Winter Park, Colorado
Grand Adventure Balloon Tours in Winter Park offers year-round flights over Colorado's spectacular landscapes. Views include the Continental Divide and Rocky Mountain National Park, with the opportunity to fly low and observe local wildlife or snorkel and splash in a nearby pond or river.
Full list of winners: Best hot air balloon ride »
Best Kayak Tour: Santa Barbara Adventure Company in Santa Barbara, California
Known for its mild Mediterranean climate, Santa Barbara is the ideal city for a long kayaking excursion. Outdoor adventure enthusiasts can book wildlife and sunset tours along the coast with Santa Barbara Adventure Company, and as an added bonus, there's no shortage of trips to Channel Islands National Park.
Full list of winners: Best Kayak Tour »
Best Whitewater Rafting Tour: Mild to Wild Rafting and Jeep Tours in Durango, Colorado
Mild to Wild Rafting & Jeep Tours offers rafting trips in Colorado, Utah and Arizona, with a river for just about every thrill level and trips lasting from a few hours to several days .
Full list of winners: Best White Water Rafting Tour »
Congratulations to all these winners! Don't forget to visit 10best.usatoday.com daily to vote for more Readers' Choice Awards.
