The Compass: April

Escape to Gatherwild, a design-forward farm stay in the Hudson Valley's rolling hills. Just north of NYC, discover eight unique glamping accommodations. From pick-your-own gardens and art gallery to hand crafted cabins, Gatherwild delights the senses. Unwind in the sauna & cold plunge tubs, catch a sunset from the rooftop deck and spend the evenings stargazing around a private fire. Find inspiration, nature, and modern comfort at Gatherwild.

GATHERWILD.COM

Walden Retreats is a boutique luxury camping hotel and event venue 55 miles west of Austin in the heart of the Texas Hill Country. Inspired by Thoreau’s classic Walden, the property invites guests to immerse themselves in nature, reflect and take life at a slower pace. Set on 96-acres of Hill Country property along the Pedernales River, Walden features 15 climate controlled tents, on site General Store, and 3,500 square foot Lodge for private events and weddings. Each custom-designed tent combines the amenities of a luxury hotel with the adventure of the outdoors and was curated by Marra Home interiors.

WALDENRETREATS.COM

Alabama’s Black Belt region, named for its blanket of dark, fertile soil, has long yielded an abundance of wildlife and a scenic landscape primed for outdoor adventures. We take pride in our southern heritage and will gladly tell you where the locals eat for smoky BBQ and a slice of pecan pie. 

Come experience a thrilling whitewater trip and an aerial view of the Chattahoochee River as you zip-line across the water from Alabama to Georgia and back–the only course of its kind in the nation. 

If the slower pace is more to your liking, paddle down a gentle river for wildlife viewing, bird watching or sink a line for large-mouth bass. Then chill out in one of our new glamping tents at Chewacla State Park and end the day fire side roasting marshmallows. Auburn, AL is a stone’s throw away where you can indulge in the culinary creations of James Beard Award chefs. 

Mother Nature shows off big here, so plan your back road trip for an Alabama Black Belt Adventure! 

ALABAMABLACKBELTADVENTURES.ORG

Discover Tucson, Arizona—where Sonoran Desert beauty blends with rich history and culture. Hike through the cactus-studded landscapes of Saguaro National Park or ascend into the pines atop the sky islands of Coronado National Forest. Camp under clear skies or visit world-renowned observatories in one of the world’s best stargazing destinations. Raise the culinary bar with a melting pot of flavors only found in the nation’s first UNESCO City of Gastronomy. Explore a vibrant cultural legacy, from historic missions to colorful barrios. Immersed in nature, steeped in tradition, adventure awaits in Tucson.

VISITTUCSON.ORG

Unleash your inner adventurer and explore the Ozarks' rugged beauty on two wheels. Fayetteville, Arkansas, is the ultimate bikepacking basecamp, offering front door access to a million acres of national forest, great gravel routes, and epic singletrack. Imagine pedaling to waterfalls and panoramic overlooks, camping beneath a star-studded sky, and discovering the Ozarks' unique charm at your own pace. Fayetteville's vibrant cycling scene and expert local outfitters make planning a breeze. And after a day on the trails, boutique hotels and mouth-watering cuisine await you back in town.

EXPERIENCEFAYETTEVILLE.COM/BIKEPACKING