Worth the Trek

Named for its nine historic Tibetan villages, Jiuzhaigou is a painter’s palette come to life, from the ever-changing emerald of its lakes to the forests swathed in gold, crimson and amber. Nestled amid the mountains, Rissai Valley is a meeting point for nature and culture, adventure and reflection. 

Perched on a granite bluff overlooking Lake Rosseau, this resort’s nature trails wind through the forested grounds and along the lake, where the fiery red, brilliant orange and golden yellow of the foliage are reflected in the water’s surface. 

Hokkaido presents a quieter, wilder side to Japan, with Mount Yotei at its center. The active volcano carries hikers through broadleaf forest and volcanic rubble to summit at its large crater. Less challenging, but no less rewarding, are trails at Mt. Niseko Annupuri, Kagami-numa and others.

Nestled at the base of Aspen Mountain with the Elk Mountains looking on, W Aspen is perfectly positioned for outdoor exploration. Hike or bike nearby trails, where yellow-gold leaves shimmer on the aspens along the way, or head to Maroon Bells, named for its richly colored, deep-red rock.

The mountains begin just beyond the door at The Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch, with White River National Forest opening onto miles of trails across the Vail Valley. Follow forested paths through Beaver Creek Mountain, take on a nearby fourteener or trade hiking boots for two wheels, riding from lift-accessed terrain to the sweeping mountain scenery of Vail Pass.

Autumn at The Ritz-Carlton, Nikko arrives with tones of orange and yellow, a striking contrast to Lake Chuzenji’s deep blue. Set within Nikko National Park and overlooking Mount Nantai, the hotel leads walks and hikes along footpaths and trails to explore waterfalls, lakes, wetlands and hot springs.