Modern life often means we’re a little short on free time, thanks to work commitments, endless emails and household chores. As a result, putting time aside to spend with your family has become increasingly difficult. That being said, 2020 is a leap year, meaning we’ve got an extra 24 hours to spend however we like. We thought this would be the perfect time to share our top 5 family outdoor activities to make the most of that extra day!
Visit a National Park:
With 62 national parks dotted throughout the US, you’re probably closer than you think to one of these stunning areas of natural beauty. They’re the ideal spot for family outdoor activities. Enjoy the wildlife, explore the landscape or take part in some park-specific activities. Whatever you choose to do and wherever you plan to visit, you’ll certainly make lasting memories. These parks are kind on your pocket book too, with low cost annual passes available and free entry to a number of sites.
Hiking:
From improved blood pressure to better balance, the many health benefits of hiking are well-known. It’s also a fantastic and easy way to bring the whole family together and get active. Hiking helps teach kids to respect their natural surroundings and promotes confidence and curiosity. If you’re looking for the ideal winter hike for yourself or your family, check out our favorite spots here.
Horse Riding:
If horse riding is something completely new to you, we’d recommend giving it a try. First of all it’s great fun and offers a surprisingly thorough workout. On top of that, riding can be very therapeutic as it requires your full attention. It also has a positive impact on mental wellbeing, helping to relieve stress and anxiety. Across the US there are plenty of quality riding schools and pony trekking centers aimed at beginners and experienced riders alike. It can make a memorable day out. However, horse riding can be a messy endeavor, so we’d recommend protecting the interior of your vehicle. Installing a set of Travall Mats Terrain Edition is the perfect way to protect your car against muddy boots! Its vehicle-specific design ensures a perfect fit and full coverage, for full peace of mind.
Fishing:
For some peaceful and relaxing family time, we suggest a good old fashioned fishing trip. In addition to the sense of accomplishment after reeling in your first catch, it’s the perfect opportunity for family bonding. It can be an effective educational tool, as it demonstrates the value of patience and perseverance. Fortunately the US is home to some of the best fishing spots in the world, thanks to its numerous rivers and lakes, so why not try it for yourself?
Dog Walking:
For a lot of people, walking the dog is just part of the daily routine and is often given little thought. However, it’s a great way to get the whole family out of the house together and your pets will of course enjoy the extra company. There’s also nothing to stop you going further than just the local dog park and a lengthy trek will do wonders for your own and your dog’s fitness. If finding the ideal dog walking spot means you have to drive, fitting a Travall Guard is something we’d recommend. This premium steel barrier will ensure your muddy and excited pup is securely positioned in the trunk. It’s also designed specifically for the car you drive, so offers a perfect, rattle-free fit. Additionally, the Travall CargoMat prevents any stains to the trunk lining and can be easily hosed off.
So that concludes our rundown of our favorite family outdoor activities to help you have as much fun as possible this Leap Day. If you feel like giving any of these a try, don’t forget to share your experiences on our social media channels with the hashtag #enjoythejourney.
