The Top Locations for the Outdoor Enthusiast Travel Nurse

Many nurses love the outdoors. One of the great things about travel nursing is that you can target locations known worldwide for their outdoor activities and then stay for an extended period while working and enjoying all they have to offer.  

We asked several adrenaline-seeking travel nurses where their best adventures took place while on assignment. We have narrowed it down to our favorite answers and hope this may help you pick your next thrilling adventure!

A Travel Nursing Mountain Adventure in Denver, CO

“Mountains, snow, hikes, bikes….oh my! While on assignment in Denver, each day off was a new adventure. One of my favorite days ever, was getting up before the sunrise and driving up to Glenwood Springs. This could have been a day itself, watching the sunrise with the stunning views of the mountains was unlike anything I have ever seen before. But I drove up there to hike Hanging Lake, which was more beautiful than I imagined, and then went to the Hot Springs after to restore and relax in the beautiful scenery.” – Sarah, RN

More About Denver for Travel Nurses

Denver, Colorado is known as the “Mile High City”. As of 2025, the Denver-Aurora-Lakewood Metropolitan Statistical Area has a population of approximately 3.2 million residents.​ As a result, Denver boasts a robust healthcare system that provides numerous opportunities for travel nurses.

For example, the University of Colorado Hospital is s leading academic medical center. It’s known for its innovative treatments and research. ​Also, Denver Health offers comprehensive healthcare services. It’s a major trauma center for the region. ​

Perhaps most importantly, Denver’s proximity to the Rocky Mountains and an extensive park system make for tons of outdoor activities.​ For example, the city maintains over 200 parks and an extensive network of trails. The 12-mile Big Dry Creek Trail is ideal for hiking and biking enthusiasts. ​

Additionally, the Denver Mountain Parks system encompasses more than 14,000 acres. It includes destinations like Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre. It’s a legendary place to see a concert. There there is Genesee Park which has scenic vistas and wildlife viewing opportunities. ​Meanwhile, reservoirs such as Aurora Reservoir and Quincy Reservoir offer opportunities for boating, fishing, and paddle-boarding. ​

There’s also Rocky Mountain National Park. The park is located about 55 miles northwest of Denver. It’s a national park that offers over 350 miles of hiking trails, camping sites, and breathtaking mountain views. ​

Rivers, Lakes and Oceans While Travel Nursing in Portland, ME

“I loved spending my days at the rivers and lake soaking up the sun or doing something a little crazy like building a rope swing! I took a class at South Portland Sailing Center – have you ever sailed in the Atlantic Ocean? It is definitely a must do!” – Brandon, BSN, RN

More About Portland, Maine for Travel Nurses

As of 2025, the Portland-South Portland Metropolitan Statistical Area has a population of approximately 550,000 residents. There are several notable hospitals in the area which makes for plenty of travel nursing job opportunities.​

For example, Maine Medical Center is the largest hospital in northern New England. It has 929 licensed beds. It’s a teaching hospital affiliated with Tufts University School of Medicine. As such, it offers a comprehensive range of services including a Level I Trauma Center and the Barbara Bush Children’s Hospital. ​

Portland’s diverse landscapes offer a variety of outdoor pursuits. For example, Deering Oaks Park is a 55-acre public park featuring a baseball diamond, tennis courts, a playground, and a pond. It’s a popular spot for picnicking, walking, and seasonal ice skating. ​

Eastern Promenade is a historic 68.2-acre public park and recreation area that offers panoramic views of Casco Bay. The Olmsted Brothers designed it. It has a 2.1-mile paved trail suitable for walking, running, and biking, as well as access to the East End Beach. ​

The Back Cove Trail is a 3.6-mile multi-use trail encircling Back Cove. It has scenic views of the Portland skyline. It’s popular among walkers, runners, and cyclists. ​

Then there is Payson Park which is adjacent to Back Cove. It’s a 47.5-acre park that has baseball and softball fields, a basketball court, and is known for its excellent sledding hills during winter. ​

And don’t forget the water activities. Casco Bay and the surrounding waterways are great for kayaking, sailing, and fishing. Paddlers love the Eastern Promenade’s East End Beach. ​

Zip Lining in Asheville, NC While on Assignment

“There is so much to explore and discover in Asheville, everyone is always outside, it’s part of the culture there. My favorite thing I did while on assignment, was take a zip line through the Blue Ridge Mountains! There is no better way to see these glorious mountains.” – Melba, RN

 Travel Nursing Leap in Bend, OR

“Bungee jumping over water was always on my bucket list, I thought this could only happen for me on some exotic vacation. But I found out that the tallest commercial bungee jump in North America was located right in Bend and I signed up to do it on my next day off! It was a thrilling way to jump into my assignment.” – Jason, RN

Mountain Biking While Travel Nursing in Austin, TX

“Austin has so many great outdoor adventures that it’s hard to nail down just one. I was on assignment there during the holidays and of course had my mountain bike with me, we went on a trail known as the Loop 360. Not only did this path have some the most amazing views of the city, you could also see all the pine trees decorated for the holidays. It was magical.” – Clara-Ann, RN

Myrtle Beach, SC for Beach Bummin’ as a Travel Nurse

“I love everything about the beach, there is nothing as calming to me as listening to the waves crash onto shore after or before a long shift. I was lucky enough to be on assignment in Myrtle Beach during the summer, so I took advantage of every single day I had off. I went parasailing, toured the islands, went deep-sea fishing, and swam with the dolphins. On one occasion, a few nurse friends and I rented a Banana Boat – where we basically just rode the waves. This was such a memorable day because I literally laughed so hard all day!” – Natasha, RN