10 Activities to Get You Outdoors While Traveling

Many of us would enjoy getting outside and escaping our day-to-day with some fresh air while traveling, and we all know science shows spending time outdoors is good for us. But where do you start? Try out a few of these activities, and you're bound to find a new outdoor hobby to help you enjoy nature on your next vacation.

By: Clint Shannon

Related To:

Shop This Look

Photo By: Clint Shannon

Photo By: Shutterstock/Cindy Creighton

Photo By: Clint Shannon

Photo By: Shutterstock/Novak Elcic

Photo By: Clint Shannon

Photo By: Shutterstock/gorillaimages

Hiking

Hiking is a standard activity for getting outside. Trails exist all over the world for all experience levels, but getting past the first few miles of any hike will often get you out of the tourist zone and into more serious solitude with nature. Or combine hiking and camping on a backpacking trip to really sync up with the outdoors.

MORE: The Most Thrilling Day Hikes in the U.S.

Star Gazing

One big advantage of actually getting out of the city when traveling is the night sky. Free from light pollution, you can check out constellations, planets, meteors and more. Finding a good dark sky place or an area far from cities can open up a new hobby and great opportunities to learn about astronomy.

MORE: 10 Dreamy Ways to Sleep Under the Stars

Fly-Fishing

For an excuse to stand in a river enjoying the sounds, smells and scenery of some of the most beautiful locations, try fly-fishing. Fishing is a perfect multi-generational activity to enjoy with children, grandparents or whoever. With enough practice, you may even catch a coveted cutthroat trout.

MORE: 8 Great Fly-Fishing Destinations

Horseback Riding

Many people may shy away from this, citing lack of experience with horses, but most operations have horses for riders of any experience including none. Horses can take you greater distances in a shorter time, covering terrain that would be difficult or inaccessible otherwise.

MORE: Best Places to Go Horseback Riding

Cycling + Mountain Biking

On the trail or the road, spending time on a bike allows you to slow down and take in your surroundings. Mountain biking can give the biggest adrenaline addict a rush, while road cycling may offer a more peaceful and calming experience. Travel with your bike or rent one at your destination, and your possibilities for exploration have already expanded.

MORE: 10 Amazing Mountain Biking Destinations in Colorado

Whitewater Rafting

Are you looking for some adrenaline to go with your nature? Check for guided whitewater rafting trips around your destination, especially if you're going somewhere with mountainous terrain. Rafting will let you connect with the rougher side of nature while enjoying the comfort of a team and an experienced guide.

MORE: Extreme Whitewater Rafting

Rock Climbing

For a more physical and challenging experience outdoors, try your hand at rock climbing. You can get a feel for climbing in a gym, but it's real rewards lie in putting those skills to use outside. Many popular travel destinations have great climbing within a day-trip distance.

MORE: 50 States of Adventurous State Parks

Stand-up Paddleboarding

Want a more peaceful connection with water? Stand-up paddleboarding is a great way to get some exercise and explore lakes or slow-moving streams. Meditation or yoga is encouraged but not required. Not confident in your balance? You can likely get a kayak or canoe at the same place.

MORE: After-Dark Water Sports

Camping

Camping is the tried-and-true method for getting outdoors. It's perfect for people new to spending time in nature and a favorite of more experienced nature-lovers. Plus, you can combine it with almost any other outdoor activity to create a truly immersive experience.

MORE: Best National Park Camping Sites in America

Skiing + Snowboarding

For many people, winter travel means warmer weather, but you can always mix things up by finding some mountains and learning how to enjoy the snow that so many of us dread each February. Bundling up near a fireplace is nice, but it's best after a day spent carving powder in a winter wonderland. If you feel less agile and coordinated, snow-shoeing is another excellent way to get out in the snow this winter.

MORE: America's Best Family Ski Resorts

Shows

Hosts

Trending

Top Videos

Digital Exclusives

From Our Shows

Trending

Top Domestic

Top International

Trending

Explore By Region

Trending

Top Interests

By Trip

By Traveler

Travel Tips

Trending

10 Activities to Get You Outdoors While Traveling

Related To:

Shop This Look

Hiking

Star Gazing

Fly-Fishing

Horseback Riding

Cycling + Mountain Biking

Whitewater Rafting

Rock Climbing

Stand-up Paddleboarding

Camping

Skiing + Snowboarding

We Recommend

Sedona Outdoor Activities

12 Months of Adventure Trips 12 Photos

Top 10 Unexpected Countries for Outdoor Adventure 10 Photos

10 Breathtaking Hiking Photos From Travel Channel Fans

10 Outdoor Adventures to Try at Big Cypress National Preserve 10 Photos

Germany’s Great Outdoor Adventures

More From Travel