Best Places to Let Love Flow: Top Five Rivers for Romance
Devin Dotson, Marketing and Online Communications Associate
February 14, 2012
Cascading water, glistening moonlight, majestic falls—there’s just something about a river that evokes romance. Especially during the February season of love, a river can be the perfect retreat for you and your sweetheart. And this year, we’re helping you out—with five romantic river sites sure to get emotions flowing.
Breaking the Stereotype
The Poconos, PA; Upper Delaware River
Long pegged as a quintessential honeymoon destination, the Poconos are no longer defined by billboards and Mad Men-era motels. Today, a more versatile backdrop has emerged for couples—from luxurious resorts to cozy cabins. This century’s Poconos offers a diverse roster both indoors and out, from spas to antiquing to horseback rides. The best to-do list sends duos outdoors—to 2,400 square miles of mountains, waterfalls, and forest along the Upper Delaware River. Take your honey to the Delaware Water Gap, where the river cuts through an Appalachian Mountain ridge, or tour the many nearby waterfalls. American Rivers is working to protect the Delaware’s clean water.
Blue Ridge Romance
Asheville, NC; Swannanoa and French Broad Rivers
Southern hospitality with romantic flair makes for an inviting retreat in the Blue Ridge Mountains. With a wealth of wine bars, spa packages, and opportunities for chocolate tastings, Asheville is a dreamy escape. Situated at the merge of the Swannanoa and French Broad Rivers, this tucked-away mountain town was named among Good Morning America’s “10 Most Beautiful Places” and Outside Magazine’s “Best Outside Towns.” Sweethearts can take a scenic drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway, a secluded hike, or a fly-fishing lesson along the rivers.
Small Town, Big Love
Loveland, CO; Big Thompson River
Dubbed “Sweetheart City” and the “Arts and Hearts Capital” of Colorado, Loveland has a history of adding that special touch to Valentine’s Day. Home of the Valentine Re-mailing Program since 1947, Loveland hand-stamps valentine cards sent by lovers nationwide with cachet and a verse before sending them on to their recipients. Loveland visitors can also explore the more than 300 pieces of public art around town; watch a performance at the historic, art nouveau-style Rialto Theater; or discover one of the state parks, trails, or golf courses along the Big Thompson River.
Backcountry Luxury
Salmon, ID; The Salmon River
For some bona fide one-on-one time, escape with your honey down “The River of No Return.” The region along the Middle Fork of the Salmon River, the Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness area, is known for its varied landscapes, wildlife, and one of the deepest gorges in North America. This backcountry hideaway can be enjoyed in style—with lavish, rustic, historic lodges. Get steamy with natural hot springs or whitewater raft along white-sand beaches.
Fall into Love
Snoqualmie Falls, WA; Snoqualmie River
Just thirty minutes outside Seattle, the Snoqualmie River and its falls make quite a splash in the otherwise secluded wilderness. The spring melt season is the optimum time to view the falls, whose waters plunge a breathtaking 268 feet. Lodges perched high above the river make for a scenic couples’ retreat among the Cascade foothills. Cuddle up at a chalet, flash back in time at the vintage train depot, or explore old railroad tracks in Iron Horse State Park. American Rivers is working to designate the Middle Fork Snoqualmie as Wild and Scenic.
Share what romantic river you took your sweatheart to on Valentine's day!
Post a Comment
Comment Policy: Our goal is to provide a forum for sharing and interacting with others about issues that are affecting our rivers and our clean water. All comments offered in the spirit of civil conversation are welcome! Commercial spam, obscenity and other rude behavior are not, and will be removed.
