5 Best Summer Outdoor Activities for Adults to Embrace

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Immerse yourself in the transformative embrace of nature’s wonders. Discover summer outdoor activities for adults that can elevate well-being, reduce stress, and uplift your spirits.

Whether you crave exhilarating sports or prefer a leisurely pace, you’ll find diverse ways to connect with nature.

Continue reading to get pumped about harmonizing your mind and body in the great outdoors.

summer outdoor activities for adults
Discover the best summer outdoor activities for adults.

CONTENTS โ€“ In this article, you will discover summer outdoor activities for adults that can be transformative, including:

Ways to Enjoy the Great Outdoors This Summer

Being in nature is known to have a positive effect on both the mind and body. Fresh air, green spaces, and sunshine can help to reduce stress and improve your mood, with the added benefits of exercising in the great outdoors. 

The good news is, the United States has no shortage of breathtaking beauty spots to visit. There are also plenty of ways to enjoy them, whether you enjoy adrenaline-fuelled sports activities or something a little more sedate. 

Here are the best summer outdoor activities for adults to make the most of the great outdoors.

1. Go Where the Action is 

white water rafting experience
Rafting is an exhilarating way to enjoy the outdoors.

If you’re off on a rafting trip, why not cover three states in one?

The majestic Yellowstone Park is a sprawling natural wonder, covering Wyoming, Idaho, and Montana. It offers plenty of outdoor opportunities for exciting activities on water and land. 

You’ll also discover a huge range of adrenaline-fuelled activities for thalassophiles (people who love being near the ocean) along the Southern Californian coast. Famous for its easy-rolling waves and warm weather, itโ€™s the perfect place for surfing and scuba diving.

2. Take the Scenic Route

tranquil river scene
Discover nature’s tranquil trails.

They say life is all about the journey. So why not take a stroll through another of the United States’ famous national parks?

For beginners, lace up your boots and head for the Andorra Meadow Loop in Wissahickon Valley Philadelphia. You’ll find 3.5 miles of even ground that’s ideal for hiking and biking. Or, you could opt for more challenging terrain, including the rugged Orange and Yellow Trails.

If you want to take to the water at a slower pace, Estes Park, Colorado sits adjacent to the Rocky Mountain National Park. With stunning mountain ranges mirrored in the surrounding lakes, itโ€™s the perfect place to go paddleboarding or kayaking. Plus, you can take a break at one of many idyllic picnic spots here.

3. Under the Stars

If youโ€™re looking to get back to nature, thereโ€™s nothing quite like pitching a tent and spending the night outdoors under the stars.

Itโ€™s fun, affordable, and hugely popular. Between 2020 and 2021, over 50 million US Americans made camping trips to locations across the country.

For the classic camping experience, head for the Catskills. Kittatinny Campground in Barryville NY has 350 campsites nestled in the dense forests and along the Delaware River. This outdoor adventure comes complete with its adventure center offering fun activities like paintballing and ziplining.

4. Happy Glampers

glamping tents aglow at night
Enjoy an enchanting glamping experience.

If you love being close to nature but miss the amenities youโ€™d typically get at home, glamping provides a cozy combination of the two.

Choose from a variety of alternatives to the traditional tent, including yurts, cabins, and airstreams. It is truly the best of both worlds.

You could also stay in a treehouse overlooking the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia.

Or, take sleeping under the stars to a whole new level in the amazing Geodesic domes at Asheville, NC. There, youโ€™ll also find glamping tents complete with air conditioning and a queen-sized bed. 

5. Stay Safe Outdoors

High-octane activities are typically also high-risk, so if youโ€™re not already an expert in rock climbing, white water rafting (or whatever else you have planned for your trip), always make sure you have the supervision of a trained professional.

Look to more general safety guidance on the website of the location you plan to visit, in addition to government websites like the National Park Foundation and the US Forest Service.

Be prepared, let someone know your departure and ETA (including vehicle details), and bring along a buddy for safety in numbers.

Final Thoughts on Summer Outdoor Activities for Adults

In conclusion, the boundless beauty of nature awaits your exploration. Embrace the positive impact on your mind and body through diverse outdoor activities.

Whether seeking thrill or tranquility, the great outdoors offers a haven for all. Step into the adventure and let nature be your guide to a rejuvenated and fulfilled life.

Explore, experience, and savor the richness that awaits.


Jackie Gately at the beach


About the Author: Jackie Gately

I'm Jackie Gately, your travel confidante and the creative force behind Enjoy Travel Life, awarded the "Best Casual-Luxury Lifestyle Blog (USA)" in Travel and Tourism by LUXlife Magazine for four consecutive years

With 25 years of published expertise, I'm a seasoned writer, editor, and photographer curating inspiring travel guides and lifestyle tips for empty nesters. I hope to kindle your spirit of exploration, encouraging you to overcome obstacles and turn your dreams into reality.

Learn to minimize your pre-travel angst and maximize the joy of exploration with insights from my experiences. Let's make every adventure a celebration of this exciting phase of life! 

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Adults hiking in nature
camping under the stars
kayaking on a serene lake

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