9 Ways To Enjoy The Outdoors Year-Round
For many people, the outdoors is a place to escape from daily life’s stresses, breathe fresh air, and connect with nature. However, enjoying the outdoors throughout the year can be challenging, especially during extreme weather conditions. For example, outdoor fire pits in Denver are a great way to overcome Colorado’s harsh winters. With the right mindset and preparation, there are numerous ways to enjoy the outdoors all year long. Let’s get going!
1. Embrace the Season
The most important step in enjoying the outdoors all year long is to embrace each season. Every season comes with its unique features and activities.
You can go skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, or snowshoeing in winter. In spring, you can enjoy hiking, bird watching, and gardening. During summer, there’s swimming, camping, fishing, or biking. When fall comes, the time is ripe for leaf-peeping, apple-picking, or hiking. By tailoring your activities to the season, you will better appreciate what the outdoors offers and add variety to your year.
On the other hand, you can participate in many activities regardless of the season! Gathering around an outdoor fire pit is a favorite activity people enjoy during all seasons. From roasting marshmallows for s’mores in the summer to huddling fireside to warm up after snow play, a roaring fire under the stars is a great way to wind down after a day of outdoor fun.
2. Dress for the Weather
The next step in enjoying the outdoors all year long is to dress appropriately for the weather. Dressing in layers is the key to staying comfortable no matter the temperature.
For colder weather, wear a base layer that wicks away moisture from your body, a middle layer that insulates, and an outer layer that protects you from wind and rain. In the summertime, wear lightweight and breathable clothing that keeps you cool and protects you from the sun. Try to keep the clothing colors light and bright, as darker colors will absorb light and may get uncomfortably warm.
Keep the activities you have planned in mind when choosing attire as well. You may still overheat if you are highly active on a cold day in the sun. Whether boating or at the beach, a windbreaker or light rain jacket can keep you comfortable in the breeze.
In some climates, temperatures can fluctuate significantly throughout the day, so keep an eye out for cooler evening temperatures. Also, rain showers can pop up in some regions quickly in the afternoon. Having suitable clothing available will eliminate some stress if unexpected weather shows up.
3. Maintain a Seasonal Go-Bag
Some items may not be needed year-round, such as bug spray, but it’s essential to consider the environment you’ll be in and carry some key products with you on your outing.
Lip balm, sunscreen, and First Aid are 3 top items that can prevent discomfort in all seasonal activities. A change of clothes and shoes is a must as well, especially if your planned activities may result in getting wet or dirty. Another item that transcends all seasons is a pair of sunglasses.
For hot environments, remember portable fans or cooling towels. And in winter, add hand and feet warmers to your go-bag. If you are prone to seasonal allergies, prepare your medications in advance. Bring an extra dose or two with you in case you forget to take it beforehand.
Having items to ease discomfort on hand will ensure that your fun can carry on without frustration.
4. Explore New Places
It is easy to find a few favorite places to revisit often, but another way to enjoy the outdoors all year long is to explore new places. There are numerous parks, trails, and outdoor spaces to explore, regardless of where you live.
Make it a goal to visit a new place every season, and you will be surprised by what you discover. You can also try different activities in each location to make it more interesting.
5. Take Advantage of Technology
There are numerous organization apps and websites that can help you plan your outdoor activities. For example, you can use weather apps to check the forecast, map apps to find new trails, and fitness apps to track your progress. You can also use technology to stay safe while enjoying the outdoors, such as carrying a GPS or satellite phone.
Remember a camera if blogging and vlogging are your hobbies! Capturing pictures to reflect on later can be a great reminder that getting outdoors in any season is rewarding.
6. Join Outdoor Groups
It’s easy to find outdoor groups and clubs that cater to different interests and skill levels. Joining a group can help you meet like-minded people, learn new skills, and explore new places. You can also participate in group activities that you may not be able to do on your own, such as kayaking or rock climbing.
Joining a group for new activities can make it easier to get the hang of techniques as well, which can provide some encouragement to keep working at it!
7. Plan for Safety
Regardless of the season, there are risks associated with outdoor activities. Make sure to research the potential hazards of the activity and the location, and take the necessary precautions to minimize the risks.
Carry a first aid kit, a map, and a compass, and know how to use them. Also, put together a list of important contacts, such as park rangers, police, and fire departments, if you need assistance and are unable to look up a number for them.
Let some of your own contacts know your plans, what routes you will take, and who will be with you. Keep them updated along the way so they know that you are safe, and let them know when you are heading home.
8. Acclimate
Going outside year-round can help your body adjust more quickly to temperature changes. Going from a nice, cool indoor space into the heat of summer can be shocking, so allow yourself some time to acclimate to the difference in temperature before diving into your activity.
Make sure to have plenty of water regardless of the season, and always keep your body temperature in check to avoid complications.
9. Make it a Routine
Making outdoor activities a regular part of your life will make you more likely to stick to them. Planning ahead to enjoy the outdoors will give you time to prepare adequately. Taking frequent breaks to get outside for a few minutes of fresh air during the day can help you build the habit.
The Bottom Line
For many, the extreme temperatures prevent them from sticking with outdoor activities. For others, it may be bugs, allergies, or precipitation. By preparing adequately and thinking ahead, you eliminate the stress and headache of the unexpected. Once you have customized your strategy for having a stress-free day, you can soak up the seasons all year long.
