5 outdoor activities to try with your family this summer.
Photo by Johnny Briggs on Unsplash
Summer is the season for outdoor activities. Whether you like to play tennis, golf, or simply enjoy the great outdoors, finding time to spend with family outdoors can make for a great summer vacation. Below are five outdoor activities that make for the perfect way to spend quality time with your family this summer:
Hiking
Hiking is a great way to get the kids out of the house and into nature. Find a hiking trail in your area and go exploring with your family. Hiking is especially good for older children who can hike long distances and are able to keep up with the group. However, if you have younger children, don’t worry about keeping up with everyone or hiking for hours on end.
Take your time and explore at a slower pace. You can also choose a shorter trail or stay near the parking area, so you’re not far from your car when it’s time to leave. Hiking is a great way to teach your kids about nature and give them an appreciation for the outdoors.
Camping
Camping is a great way to spend time with your family, especially if they are the outdoorsy types. The scenery that you can experience while camping is unmatched by pretty much anything else. There are so many different places you can go camping, whether it’s right in your own backyard or hundreds of miles away. When you camp, there are so many things that you can do with your kids, such as going on hikes through the woods, swimming in the lake, and just enjoying each other’s company over a campfire.
Types of camping
There are many different types of camping, so you should be able to find one that fits your needs. If you have small children or aren’t ready to rough it in the wilderness, consider glamping or luxury camping. If you’re looking for something more relaxed, try RV camping. If you want something a little more adventurous but still not too extreme, backpacking could be an option for you.
Finally, if you’re just looking for a quiet place to relax and get away from everything, you can always camp in a cabin; you can go camping in Gatlinburg and look into their Gatlinburg cabin rental options for the summer and enjoy every activity that is associated with camping.
Rock climbing
Rock climbing is one of the most exciting and challenging outdoor sports in which you can participate. It’s also a great way to build strength and confidence. If you have children over age 5, they’re probably old enough to give it a try — but it’s important that all climbers learn the basics before taking on a challenging route.
Precautions to take when rock climbing
Before heading out for your first rock-climbing adventure, read up on safety best practices, and make sure everyone has the gear they need. Aside from comfortable clothes and sturdy shoes, every climber needs a helmet, harness, belay device, and chalk bag. You’ll also want to invest in a durable climbing rope if you’re planning multiple trips.
Kayaking
Kayaking is a great way to spend time with your family. Unlike canoeing, kayaks have closed decks, and most kayakers use double-bladed paddles. Kayaks come in all shapes and sizes, from small one-person children’s boats to large two-person boats for adults. If you’re looking for an active but relaxing experience, kayaking could be perfect for you.
While kayaking, you can view wildlife from a safe distance, including seabirds and marine animals such as seals and dolphins, who are curious about nature. You can also explore beautiful sights along the coast or riverside that would otherwise be inaccessible by land. You might even catch a glimpse of rare wildlife like river otters or bald eagles.
Precautions to take when kayaking
Before heading out on the water, make sure everyone in your group knows how to swim. And always wear a life jacket. It’s also a good idea to have someone stay behind at the shoreline just in case someone needs help getting back in their kayak after falling into the water (or just needs a rest).
Fishing
Fishing is a great activity that you can do with your family because it provides a way for parents to bond with their children and teach them new skills. Fishing is also a great way to help children unplug from technology and spend more time outdoors, appreciating nature.
Before going fishing, make sure you have the necessary fishing licenses and permits. These may vary depending on your location or the type of fish you would like to catch. You’ll also need to decide whether you want to go freshwater or saltwater fishing, as this will affect what kind of equipment you will need.
We hope this list helps you find some great ways to get out with your family this summer. Whether you’re a family with young children or you want to explore local trails and parks with friends, there are plenty of summer activities that will keep you entertained while keeping you fit and active.