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Whether it’s a local winter market or hiking trails in the Adirondack Mountains, outdoor adventure doesn’t have to be expensive. By doing the right research and packing carefully, you can make the most of your budget.
Cheap outdoor activities for adults are also great for your heart health and can even help you feel more energetic throughout the day. Here are some of our favorite budget-friendly outdoor adventures:
1. Hiking
Hiking is a fun outdoor adventure that is relatively inexpensive, especially for families. Hiking combines exercise with exploration and nature education for an unforgettable experience. It can also be a great way to reduce stress and anxiety, while boosting your mood.
Hiking can be done at a local park or trail for free, or you can choose to pay an entrance fee to enter a national park. Some parks offer free admission days throughout the year.
The cost of hiking can vary depending on the time of year and weather conditions. Early spring and fall hikes are typically cheaper as they avoid the peak tourist season. It’s also helpful to have a variety of clothing options, including comfortable hiking shoes and waterproof jackets. Specialized hiking gear can be expensive, but is necessary for the best results.
2. Camping
If you’re looking for a refreshing weekend getaway that won’t break the bank, camping is the way to go. This outdoor adventure is relatively inexpensive in comparison to other activities like hiking, although you will need to invest in a tent and sleeping gear.
In addition to being a great source of exercise, camping also helps you learn how to survive in the wilderness. You’ll have to purify water, build a fire and sleep under the stars – all skills that will serve you well in many other areas of your life.
Moreover, family camping trips offer the perfect opportunity to connect with nature in a more meaningful way. You can encourage your kids to develop a love of the outdoors by organizing nature scavenger hunts, which promote curiosity and observation.
3. Fishing
Outdoor adventures aren’t always expensive, especially when you do a bit of research before planning a trip. Online resources can help you locate experiences that fit your budget. In addition, local nature preserves often offer a variety of activities for a low cost, including hiking and kayaking.
Camping is also an affordable option for outdoor adventurers, as it can be enjoyed at state and national parks. You can save money by bringing your own meals and snacks, such as peanut butter sandwiches, apples, and nuts. It’s important to remember that many of these outdoor adventure sites can be extremely busy during the weekends and holidays, so it’s best to plan ahead. This helps ensure that you’ll have a memorable experience.
4. Skydiving
The thrill of racing through the air at speeds of 30 mph or more above some of the most beautiful mountain landscapes is available on budget-friendly outdoor adventures. In Stowe, Vermont, for example, skydivers soar over the town and the mountains and can see bald eagles and other wildlife below. Packages include instruction and equipment.
Another family-friendly and affordable outdoor adventure is planning a nature scavenger hunt that encourages observation and connects kids to the natural environment. You can customize the list to your location and your kids’ interests.
5. Ziplining
Whether you’re looking for a rush of adrenaline or simply want to view incredible scenery from above, zip lining is an outdoor adventure that won’t break the bank. It’s also a great way to bring friends or family members closer together through an exciting, challenging activity that pushes them outside of their comfort zone.
The most important thing to remember is to follow your guide’s instructions. They’ll tell you everything from when it’s safe to leave the platform to how to brake as you approach the end of the line.
For example, at Kualoa Ranch on Oahu, you can enjoy a zipline experience that combines Hollywood movie magic with island beauty. As you soar over the ranch, you’ll catch glimpses of iconic filming locations from movies and TV shows like Godzilla and Lost.
