—Darren Smith, Minneapolis, Minnesota

Covering a 125-mile swatch of western South Dakota, the Black Hills encompass rugged rock formations, deep canyons, grassy meadows, and numerous streams and lakes. Along the thousands of miles of old logging trails and fire roads you'll spot elk, bighorn sheep, buffalo, and mountain goats. The many trailheads have multiple access points and easy-to-follow signs.

The 16-mile Bear Mountain Trail features some steep climbs, but much of the route winds along a limestone rim and through thick aspen grove. Lake Loop Trail is a ten-mile jaunt around Deerfield Lake that meanders through pine forest and meadows with sweeping views of the lake. Combine this with the 18-mile Deerfield Trail, an offshoot to the east, and you can connect with still more trails. In the northern hills are the Eagle Cliff trail system and several short loops ranging in difficulty from easy to moderate. For information call the Black Hills National Forest Headquarters at (605) 673-2251.

I've recently become interested in rafting. I've done the Gauley in West Virginia, and now I'm looking for other sites with Class III and up whitewater in the United States and Canada. Any suggestions?

—Bill Bischoff, New York, New York

Cataract Canyon in Utah is a 100-mile trip capped by 18 thrilling miles of rapids. You'll put in near Moab, then drift past some truly eerie rock formations and Anasazi ruins. Call Canyonlands National Park (801-259-7164) in Moab for a list of outfitters.

The Magpie River in Quebec is a Class IV pool-and-drop river accessed only by floatplane; the Clearwater River in Saskatchewan has Class IV rapids that cut through deep and narrow canyons. Call Earth River Expeditions (800-643-2784) or Clearwater Tours (800-661-7275).

Who is the best outfitter for a kayak tour in Alaska, and when is the best time to go?

—Valerie Peck, Oakland, California

Considering the number of kayaking outfitters in Alaska, it's tough to narrow it down to one. A better approach might be to pick where in the state's wilderness you most want to go, then check out who offers trips in that region. An excellent resource is the Alaska Wilderness Recreation and Tourism Association (907-463-3038), a nonprofit group that represents more than 200 adventure travel companies.

For a gentle introduction to the sport, check out the calm waters of the popular Prince William Sound as well as the Juneau area. Further afield, there are plenty of other options for kayakers of all levels. For a real challenge, head to Wood-Tikchik State Park in the state's southwestern corner, where you'll find several Class I and II rapids and a string of lakes to explore. Call Tikchik State Park Tours (888-345-2445) to arrange a five-day paddle (about $1,700 per person, including airfare from Anchorage). As for the best time of year to head to Alaska, we suggest July, when the weather is reliable and relatively warm.

We'd like to hike the Mont Blanc circuit in September. Is that a good month to go? Do we need a guide? How long does it take?

—Wayne Grant, Leavenworth, Kansas

September's a fine time to tackle the Tour du Mont Blanc, one of the world's greatest hikes. Try to go during the first part of the month to avoid early-season snow. Most people allow at least ten days to make the 120-mile trek, which takes you into France, Italy, and Switzerland as you circle the highest massif (15,771 feet) in the Alps.

Traditionally, hikers do the circuit counterclockwise, beginning and ending in Les Houches, just outside of Chamonix. You'll find a network of huts, as well as inns and hikers' lodges throughout the small villages.

It's not strictly necessary to hire a guide, but a local's knowledge can certainly enhance the trip. Several outfitters offer Mont Blanc excursions: Mountain Travel­Sobek leads a 12-day trip ($2,390 per person, land only; 888-687-6235) and REI Adventures offers a two-week trip ($1,795 per person; call 800-622-2236).

We're looking for an activity-oriented destination in the Caribbean. Any ideas?

—Tom Maynard, Arlington, Virgina

If you're willing to splurge, the Bitter End Yacht Club on Virgin Gorda in the British Virgin Islands is ideal. Accessible only by boat, the resort provides guests with kayaks, shells, windsurfers, and sailboats at no additional charge. The on-site Nick Trotter Sailing and Boardsailing School offers multiday camps for sailors of all levels, and diving instruction is also available. Call 800-872-2392 for details.

Less pricey and more rustic is Maho Bay Camps on neighboring St. John in the U.S. Virgins. The 114 canvas tent cottages are surrounded by wooded hills; at the tiny beach you can rent windsurfers, kayaks, and snorkeling and scuba gear. Nearby are hiking trails in Virgin Islands National Park. Call 800-392-9004. —Amy Marr

Have some vacation questions of your own? Find Outside's Adventure Adviser on the Web at www.outsidemag.com.