Hiking and the outdoors are as synonymous as, well, hiking and the outdoors. But whether you’re injured or are just plain tired of trudging through the backcountry, there are tons of ways to get your dose of Vitamin D without lacing up hiking boots. With summer just around the corner, there’s never been a better time to reset both mentally and physically with some fresh air and new adventures.
From kayaking to bouldering, mix up your routine with these 11 outdoor activities.
1. Surfing
The Beach Boys said it best: Catch a wave and you’re sitting on top of the world. Surfing, especially longboard surfing, is a surprisingly easy outdoor sport to learn. If paddling out for the first time sounds intimidating, there are surf camps offered by experienced surf instructors who provide the board, wetsuit and all the motivation you’ll need to get the ride of your life. Remember, having fun is the name of the game—and we can’t think of anything more fun than riding waves into shore and paddling back out.
Try it at these destinations for surfing:
Rincon Beach Park, Santa Barbara, CA
Oceanside, San Diego, CA
2. Fishing
If you’re the patient, watching-water-roll-by type, fishing may just be your outdoor activity of the summer. Fishing is a surprisingly inexpensive activity to get started–a basic rod/reel combo and bait can cost less than $50. Be aware you can’t just drop a line in anywhere, make sure to follow your local rules and regulations (and get a fishing license) before you cast out. Once you get the hang of it, fishing can be a rewarding activity that’s enjoyable for the whole family. You’ll remember the first fish you caught for the rest of your life.
Try it at these destinations for fishing:
Gleasons Landing, Pere Marquette River, MI
Fishing Creek Campground, Lake Cumberland, KY
3. Mountain Biking
If hitting the trails by foot doesn’t sound appealing, you may find heading up a trail on a mountain bike more enjoyable. A mountain bike is generally outfitted with knobby off-road tires for traction and a suspension system to absorb the bumps along the trail. Many mountain towns offer mountain bike rentals so you can go out and enjoy the trails without purchasing your own bike. Pack a backpack with snacks and water and make a day of enjoying the flora, views and trails many people can’t access on foot. Plus, there’s nothing better than a long descent after pedaling your way up a hill!
Try it at these destinations for mountain biking:
Big Bear Mountain Resort, CA
Crested Butte, CO
4. Paddle Boarding
Stand up paddle boarding (SUP, for short) has blown up in popularity in recent years–and for good reason, too. It’s a low impact activity that improves your balance, reduces stress and increases endurance. Specifics aside, paddle boarding is fun and safe for kids and adults alike. Just like kayaks, many marinas and campgrounds rent paddle boards by the hour. If you’re a newbie, try to pick a wind-free day in an area protected from the surf—keeping your balance is tough enough without waves thrown into the mix.
Try it at these destinations for paddle boarding:
East Fork, Lavon Lake, TX
Dewey Beach, DE
5. Bouldering
Are your hands already getting sweaty just thinking about scaling a rock face? Don’t worry, we’re not talking about free soloing El Capitan in Yosemite like Alex Honnold. Bouldering is a style of rock climbing that takes place on small boulder-like rocks and doesn’t require ropes. Simply lace up your climbing shoes, unfold your crash pad (similar to a pad for gymnasts), chalk up and head up the face of the rock. Bouldering routes can vary in difficulty, so there’s plenty to tackle depending on the location and your experience. Remember, bouldering can be dangerous–always make sure you’re with a spotter to keep your landings safe.
Try it at these destinations for bouldering:
Stoney Point, Los Angeles, CA
Bishop Park Group, John Muir Wilderness, CA
6. Snorkeling
If you find yourself at the beach this summer, add snorkeling to your to-do list. Grab a mask, snorkel and fins (optional), and you’ll be checking out a new underwater world before you know it. Some areas are more snorkeling-friendly than others, so be sure to check water visibility and weather conditions before leaving shore. Local dive shops will have all the gear you need for purchase or rent, and be sure to ask the experts for the best locations. Gather the family, create a checklist of local sea creatures and go exploring!
Try it at these destinations for snorkeling:
Catalina Island, CA
Key West, FL
7. Horseback Riding
Giddy up! Exploring backcountry trails on horseback is something everyone should try at least once. We’re going to assume you don’t own a horse, so do some research to see if your destination has any local stables that host daily trail rides. Sit back, look around and enjoy the natural surroundings as your noble steed does all the difficult work for you. There’s no experience necessary–the trail rides are led by experienced trainers and guides to get you from point A to point B safely.
Try it at these destinations for horseback riding:
Tanque Verde Ranch, AZ
Big Pine Equestrian Group Campground, CA
8. Swimming
Chilling by a pool with your beverage of choice sounds nice, but why not take the fun out to your local beach or lake? Many public areas offer convenient amenities like nearby parking, restrooms and lifeguard supervision. Swimming is a great workout as well, just make sure you follow the posted rules regarding safe swimming areas and possible hazards like strong currents and sharks. When you get back onshore, fire up the grill, crank some tunes and toss around a frisbee. Don’t forget the sunblock!
Try it at these camping destinations for swimming:
Lake Michigan at Manistee, MI
Crater Lake, OR
9. Camping
Just because hiking isn’t your thing doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy sleeping under the stars. Camping is more accessible than ever–there’s no need to hike anywhere with a 50-pound backpacking pack on your back to experience great campsites. No matter if you enjoy camping at the beach or up in the mountains, many campgrounds offer the basic amenities of home (electricity, showers, bathrooms, etc.) so you can enjoy the outdoors without actually roughing it. Camping is a great (and relatively cheap) vacation idea, and a fun way to foster a passion for the outdoors and create lasting memories with family and little ones.
Try it at these camping destinations:
Cheyenne Mountain State Park, CO
Deer Creek State Park, UT
10. Kayaking
Looking for a way to cool off and get a workout this summer? Whether you’re sea kayaking through a protected cove or navigating the shoreline of a lake, kayaking is a rewarding outdoor activity that’s low impact and safe for all ages. You don’t need to buy your own kayak either–many campgrounds and marinas rent tandem and solo kayaks by the hour. If you’re nervous about heading out without experience, several outfitting companies host kayak tours led by licensed professionals.
Try it at these camping destinations for kayaking:
East Fork, Lavon Lake, TX
Lake Tahoe, CA
11. Trail Running
Okay okay, we know—trail running and hiking are similar. But we couldn’t create the ultimate summer outdoor activity list without adding one of the fastest growing sports in the world. If you’re burnt out on hiking, trail running is a challenging way to add some spice to your off-road experience. It’s lighter, faster and more exciting, and generally trail runners have fever injuries and improved technique over those who only run on the road or treadmill. It’s convenient too—just grab a pair of trail shoes and go!
Try it at these destinations for trail running:
Mesa Trail, Boulder, CO
Dale Ball Trails, Santa Fe, NM
Are you ready for an outdoor adventure? Start planning your camping trip.