After a long winter, everyone is looking for ways to lift their well-being. According to a study by the USDA Forest Service, scientists have observed many physical and psychological benefits of nature. So, let’s take a walk on the wild side and get outdoors for a wellness boost!

The California seaside destination of Santa Monica is a perfect getaway to recharge one’s body, mind and spirit in a city that annually boasts 280 days of sunshine. Home to the iconic Santa Monica Pier, this alfresco hub is a magnet for surfers, beach volleyballers, and cyclists who pedal along the heavenly 5.5-kilometre coastline.

GO LOCAL  In this health-conscious community, start the day with yoga on the beach as the fresh sea breeze tickles the soul. santamonica.com

Sunny San Diego has diverse terrain, from the ocean, to the mountains, to the desert. Outdoor enthusiasts can ditch the treadmill. Instead, take a hike at spectacular parklands, including Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, a coastal wilderness of pine forests and sandstone canyons.

GO LOCAL Bikers can cycle along Bayshore Bikeway, a 40-kilometre ride along San Diego Bay. Runners can enjoy a leisurely jog along the popular Mission Beach-Pacific Beach boardwalk. sandiego.org

Minneapolis is the “City by Nature,” with 180 parks, 91 trails, 22 lakes and the Mississippi River, which runs through downtown. There are ample opportunities to hike, bike, boat and try new urban activities in these vast green spaces.

GO LOCAL A popular hiking spot is the Minnehaha Creek Trail, which has 16 kilometres of trails and a spectacular five-storey waterfall. minneapolis.org

In Vermont recharging your batteries doesn’t necessarily require electricity. With 55 state parks, more than 800 lakes and ponds, and abundant hiking trails—including the Appalachian Trail and the Long Trail—Vermont suits all levels of wellness enthusiasts.

GO LOCAL Hike through the Green Mountains, bike on a rail trail, or float down a river for a re-energizing visit. vermontvacation.com

Much of Oregon’s scenic beauty has been created by ancient volcanic activity and converging fault lines, helping to form the state’s naturally occurring geothermic hot springs. Take a soothing dip in this state from a deep soak in the verdant forests of the Willamette Valley to the sage-covered hills of Eastern Oregon.

GO LOCAL The “clothing optional” Breitenbush Hot Springs—a three-hour drive southeast of Portland—promotes their steaming pools as a “place to bring life into balance.” traveloregon.com

Canyon bathing in Utah (the desert version of forest bathing) provides a wellness setting overflowing with mind-blowing rock formations and meditative canyons. Most famously, The Narrows, in Zion National Park, combines canyon and water, and Nine Mile Canyon—270 kilometres southeast of Salt Lake City—preserves a collection of prehistoric petroglyphs, providing the opportunity to bask in Utah’s Indigenous past. visitutah.com