Looking for something fun and adventurous to do with your loved one or even a close friend this Valentine’s Day? Don’t buy into the commercial, unsustainable product buying that Valentine’s Day has become. Have an adventure instead!
These are my top picks for unique adventures to have together this Valentine’s Day 2021. And since it’s not snowing everywhere right now, I have included options for all weather types.
Kayaking
This first, mostly non-winter sport, is a great way to get out with your partner or a close friend. Spend the day on a lake or kayaking upriver, with a stopover for a picnic lunch (no need to bring a picnic blanket, use what nature gives you).
Suggested location: Juniper Run, Ocala National Forest, Florida
With a jungle-like feel you can spend the day kayaking the 7-mile stretch of river and it’s great for all abilities. There is also a shuttle to help you get there and kayaks for rent. So, if you want to step into another world of turquoise waters and dense jungle forest, this is the place for you and that special someone.
Take an ice climbing class together
If you live in a place that gets regular snow during the month of February, how about getting out of your comfort zone and trying something new? Like ice-climbing? It’s a great way to enjoy the winter, while pushing yourself in new ways.
Suggested location: New Paltz (Gunks), New York
“The Gunks” are a well-known rock and ice climbing location in New York with Eastern Mountain Sports offering a multitude of classes. Check out their winter climbing 101 course and spend a day learning a new skill.
Rent a cabin in the woods
Sometimes you just want to get away, be immersed in nature with no connection to the outside world. Just you and your favorite person. This option can be done anywhere in the world and can include lots of great outdoor activities.
If you are in a location with snow, maybe you pick a cabin where you can go snowshoeing or cross-country skiing right from your doorstep. Or, if you are in a place that isn’t blanketed in snow, maybe you choose a cabin that has some great hiking nearby.
Whatever you choose, there are lots of options. From tree houses to log cabins with outdoor hottubs. Check out AirB&B for some great options.
Take a hike
This is a given and should be on any adventure list. It can also be done by any level of experience. If you aren’t a regular hiker but you and your partner are really interested in getting into nature for a while try a short, easy trail. For those with more experience, maybe you climb a mountain or do a multiday trek.
Whatever your choice, it’s a great way to reconnect with each other without all the outside distractions.
Maybe you even turn off your phones for a while, just so you can fully be present in the moment.
Go cross country skiing
For folks with snow, cross country skiing is a great way to spend Valentine’s Day. I have done it and can fully attest to the fact that it is a perfect way to spend a day with someone you love.
Lots of places offer rentals. If you have never cross country skied before, it’s no problem, just stick to the easy trails. They are fairly flat and once you get the gliding motion down, it’s easy-peasy.
To really up the romance, do a night ski. Enjoy skiing under the lights in the woods and when you are done make sure you bring a thermos of hot chocolate to enjoy at the end.
Lots of ski hills and even some state parks offer groomed cross-country ski trails and many also offer night skiing.
Go on a geocaching adventure
In the mood for a treasure hunt? Download the Geocaching app to discover tons of hidden gems close to you. It’s pretty unbelievable just how many there are.
Maybe you explore your neighborhood or maybe you head to a place you have never been and explore there. Wherever you choose, it’s a great way to work together to solve the mystery of the next geocache location.
Sleep under the stars
To me this is the ultimate in romance and beauty. Head far away from the city or town lights and no matter if it’s winter camping or camping in a warm destination that stars will speak for themselves.
Bundle up with some warm blankets, some hot cider with a little bourbon, and build a nice warm fire and just spend the evening cozied up watching the stars. There truly is nothing more sublime.
Purchase an adventure box
If you want to try something truly different try out an adventure box. Try out the Adventure Challenge for Couples and get 50 scratch off challenges to up your date night on Valentine’s Day and beyond. They are also having a 15% Valentine’s Day special right now, so make sure to grab yours (no I am not an affiliate for this company, I just think it’s kind of cool).
Go snowshoeing
Too much snow to go on a day hike? How about going on snowshoe instead? Most trails can be trekked via snowshoe, giving you lots of options to get outside in the winter with your sweetheart.
Don’t let the snow scare you away from enjoying the outdoors. Bundle up, bring some hot chocolate and try something new. Snowshoeing was never high on my radar until recently when I wanted more opportunities to get outside and enjoy winter. Instead of hibernating by the fire until spring.
Those same places that offer cross country skiing, along with rentals, also offer snowshoes for rent and trails to trek. And if you love it, many of these rental places periodically sell off their rentals for a discount, meaning you could start a snowshoeing Valentine’s Day tradition!
Concluding Thoughts
No matter what you choose, being with someone you care about enjoying nature is all that really matters. So, grab your partner, or your best friend, or your favorite sibling, and get outside and play! The outdoors is meant to be enjoyed and explored, so what are you waiting for?
