Hiking and Wine Tasting

There are so many beautiful hiking trails in this country. Whether you like the easy, winding paths along the lakeside, or you push yourself to reach great peaks, the activity is beautifully paired with a simple and quaint wine tasting.  Hiking and wine tasting can pair to create a day with friends that will be remembered for years to come.

Hiking Through Wine Country

The beauty of American wine gaining traction among connoisseurs is that it has led to an expansion of “wine country.”  There are thousands of vineyards in America now.  In Virginia alone, there are more than 200, and they create the perfect backdrop for a beautiful and potentially romantic hike. Several wineries source their wines from vineyards located near or along the Appalachian Trail.  Sky Meadow State Park, for instance, offers excellent hiking opportunities with beautiful views of far-off mountain peaks.  You can bring your own bottles of wine for tasting, perhaps some semi-sweet, refreshing varieties to taste in the park, or you can make a short trek to the local wineries to be served.

Challenge Yourself with a Multi-Day Hike

You can find Rogue River in Oregon, where adventure packages include a guided four-day hike of intermediate difficulty.  Take a break during the trek to float on the rafts packed by your hike leaders and enjoy a wine tasting on the water.  Some of the hiking packages include a wine-tasting component with a good mix of varieties, including Riesling, cabernet sauvignon, merlot, Rosé, and more classics. In this case, hiking and wine tasting are often referred to as ‘wiking.’ 

Mountains and Wine

In the Adirondacks of Upstate New York and Colorado’s Rockies, you can find examples of mountain treks in close proximity to wineries.  This is true hiking through wine country. Some guided tours provide bottles for tasting along the way, or you can grab yourself a trail map and pack your own wine tasting picnic.  Either way, you are certain to get some exercise, exposure to breathtaking views, and a literal taste of the area.