How to Choose the Right Outdoor Activities for Beginners
Morgan Rogue 01.31.24
More and more people want to get outdoors with their families, but it’s a struggle for some because they feel they have to do big granderous adventures if they go outdoors.
Let’s get one thing straight:
If dirt is beneath you and the sky is above you, you’re outdoors!
You can certainly make big granderous plans to get outdoors such as hiking and camping trips, but they don’t always have to be that way. If you want to get outside, then just step outside of your door!
Living in Alaska, it can get rather cold most of the year, but we still have to get outside. Being cooped up inside is no way for any human to live. We need fresh air, for at least 20 minutes a day.
Let’s take a look at some activities that you and your family can do right away with little to no pre-planning!
Trips to the playgroundÂ
Do you still have littles? Getting yourself and your kids to the playground is still a valid and really fun experience for the whole family. You’re spending time together, you’re getting fresh air, and best of all, you’re outside!
Eat outdoors
Yes, I know bugs can sometimes be an issue when it comes to eating outdoors, but if you choose to eat outdoors, you’re taking a regular meal and bringing it to the outdoors, so that qualifies as outdoor time. And a bonus; make the meal outdoors too if you’re feeling extra fun!
Take a walk around the neighborhood
Or ride your bikes. This is simple as it gets everyone outside and exercising. Take your time and just enjoy the time with yourself or your loved ones and take the sights in. We loved our nightly walks in the evenings when we lived down south. We mostly walk in the summertime here in AK, but there’s also plenty to do in the winter.
Play in the snow
I know it’s cold in places that get winter weather, I hear ya. But if you have snow, bundle up then get out and play in it. Doesn’t have to be for long, try to build a mini snowman, do a snow volcano (a regular volcano, but in the snow), get some buckets and make some snow castles or just dig through some snow. Have fun with it!
Campfire and s’mores
This is always a hit with the kids. When we’re going to make a fire in our Solo Stove, we have to break out the s’mores, too. Enjoy some quality around the fire and enjoy a fun treat.
Play board games outside
Yep, just like bringing the food outside, bring those board games outside! Just about every board game can be played outside. This is such an easy and fun way to get that quality family and outdoor time.
Outdoor craftsÂ
Whether it’s knitting, crocheting, playing with kinetic sand or clay, or even just reading or writing, take it outside! Get out of the house and take that activity to the outdoors.
Go for a picnic
Ready to venture away from the home? Grab some easy food and supplies (sandwiches are always a great and easy choice or maybe just some snacks!) and head to your local park for some good old-fashioned picnic time.
Do you see a pattern?
I think many of us glamorize the outdoors as having to always be these big, great, grand adventures, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. Take it slow within your own background or common area, then venture out to your local parks. Then when you’re really getting comfortable with the outdoors, go for a quick hike, then a longer hike, then an overnight camping trip. Then…well, then you’ll be hooked. But no matter the season, you’ll always have an opportunity to get outside and enjoy time with those you love.
What outdoor activities do you love to do the most?
