Green travel isn't only about the journey--it's about the destination too. Here are seven great picks, recently surveyed by National Geographic Traveler for their sustainable practices (including least-toxic cleaners, energy and water savings, and recycling efforts), sense of place, community involvement and general ambience.
1) Camp Denali, Denali National Park and Preserve, Alaska: Centered on Mt. McKinley (Denali), the tallest peak in North America, the phrase "unspoiled paradise" won't seem hackneyed as you step out of your guest cabin into spectacular parkland ($1,365-$3,185 for 3-7 days; campdenali.com, 907-683-2290; also see nps.gov/dena).
2) Orchard Garden Hotel, San Francicsco, Calif.: A LEED-certified hotel in the heart of arguably America's greenest city. Skip the car while in town and take a stylish, recuperated tram, or rent a Prius to visit nearby Point Reyes National Seashore and dine at Alice Waters' Chez Panisse in Berkeley ($169-$450; theorchardgardenhotel.com, 888-717-2881).
3) Rock Harbor Lodge, Isle Royale National Park, Mich.: Hidden on a remote island in Northwest Lake Superior, Rock Harbor Lodge is about as far away from it all as you can get ($223-$386; rockharborlodge.com, 906-337-4993).
Our 2024 Coverage Needs You
Already contributed? Log in to hide these messages.