If 2020 was the year of staying at home and working remotely, then 2021 is the year of outdoor adventures. Whether you opt for a soft adventure or something only for thrill-seekers, you will reap the benefits of adventure. This TEDx talk explains why you should add more adventure to your life. Here are four outdoor adventures to twist your arm.

Practice Archery

Bows and arrows are not only for hunters. Archery is a sport for all ages as well as ability levels. If you haven’t practiced archery before, you will need to get lessons as well as gear. There are many places near New York where you can learn archery skills. Archery is a wonderful way to escape reality for a bit and focus on the target. Many attest that archery is a way to clear your mind and destress. Plus, when you hit that bullseye, it is exciting

Go Kayaking

A great outdoor activity that you can do without much stress on your joints is kayaking. You can kayak on rivers, lakes, and even the ocean. However, you must choose the right option for your ability level. There are many opportunities to kayak on the Hudson River as well as the Finger Lakes. If you don’t know the basics of kayaking, the best bet is to rent from an outfitter and take a tour. The guide will help you with the technique. After you have the basics, you may want to rent a tandem kayak with a friend or loved one. There’s nothing like being on the water to see a place with new eyes.

Fishing

One of the most popular hobbies and outdoor activities is fishing. You can spend an hour or the majority of your day waiting for a bite. However, fishing teaches you patience. Something that many of us lack or could use a bit more of. To start, all you need is a rod, reel, bait, a fishing license, and a cooler with your favorite beverage and snacks. Although most prefer to fish in the summer months, you can take a winter adventure and go ice fishing. If you select winter fishing, you will need an ice fishing guide from Tailored Tackle. Remember to bring your camera to document your catch. You don’t want to be caught in a fisherman’s tale.

Hiking

Hiking has certainly made a comeback after the book and movie, Wild. However, to go hiking you don’t have to commit to doing the Appalachian Trail nor the Pacific Crest Trail. Some of the best hikes in the world are day hikes, which means you are out and back on the same day. In fact, around New York state, there are wonderful, picturesque hikes along the Hudson River, the Adirondacks, and the Finger Lakes. For most day-hikes, you would need hiking boots or shoes, a lightweight backpack for carrying ample water, snacks, and a first aid kit, and of course sunscreen. If you are a beginner or lack good balance, you may want to opt for a pair of hiking poles as well.

Let’s reap the benefits of outdoor adventures this year. Whether you decide to hike, kayak, fish, practice archery, or a bit of all of them, you will notice how time outside of your own home, office, and routine changes you or at least your perspective. Good luck with your chosen outdoor adventures!

Do you have any adventureous travel plans for 2021? Are they close to home or on the other side of the world? Let me know in the comments below.

Until our next rendezvous …

XOXO

Trudy