Instead of the traditional flowers, candy and a candlelight dinner and the constant commercialism surrounding Valentine’s Day, how about going on an adventure instead? These are my recommendations for a Valentine’s Day to help bring you closer together and closer to nature.
Have a powder day
February 14th falls right in the middle of the snowiest part of winter for much of North America. The perfect time to hit the slopes.
And it doesn’t have to be far away. A day at the local mountain can be the perfect way to get close. Enjoy the views from the ski lifts and the top of the mountain, take a break for lunch and a beer, and have fun.
Depending on the snow fall that year, the East Coast is teeming with mountains for a day on the slopes. And I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the West Coast powder! But I don’t have to tell you about that!
So, find your mountain and spend the day outside.
Book a secluded cabin for two this Valentine’s Day
Take a break from the world and head into the woods. Whether it’s a rustic cabin or your first glamping experience, there is something for every style out there.
Maine has some of the best wilderness on the east coast, and plenty of cabins to hike, bike, snowmobile or ski into. If glamping is your thing Maine also offers some of the best glamping spots, including a treehouse!
Take a hike and then a soak
Deep in Oregon’s forests are bathtubs of hot springs. That’s right, your own private hot spring.
Check out Umpqua Hot Springs, at hot spot for Instagrammers. Just a 0.3-mile steep trek up to a “tub” overlooking the North Umpqua River. The water comes from an active fault that keeps the waters seeping out at a toasty 100 to 115 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s $5 entry and your own piece of magical forest heaven.
If you are looking for something a bit racier, head to the clothing optional Terwilliger Hot Springs in the Willamette Valley. At $7/day/person and only a half mile hike from the trailhead, it’s the perfect sinful get away with your beau.
But your hike doesn’t have to end in a hot spring, though that does sound nice doesn’t it? A chance to get outside with your sweetheart is always a good idea. Make it an overnight, with a two-day hike, camping under the stars and some hot cocoa.
If there’s too much snow on the ground make it a snowshoeing or cross-country skiing date. A day out in the snow-covered woods can really bring you together.
One great place to check out is Mill River in Prince Edward Island, Canada. You can hop on the groomed cross-country ski trails right from the resort. After a full day of exploring trails, go ice skating or on a horse drawn carriage ride. Whatever brings out the wonder and joy in you both.
Need a couple of hiking suggestions?
On the east coast of the US check out the Catskill Mountains or head further south to Shenandoah National Park.
On the west coast head to Utah’s Mighty 5 National Parks and get lost in the red, white, and pink hues of the hoodoos in Bryce Canyon or the magnificent arches in Arches National Park. You will not regret it!
Give back
Giving back to others always has a way of bringing you closer together. It’s a win-win. Why not join your local trail association for a day of trail maintenance.
Check your local parks department for opportunities to help out. In February and March in New Jersey volunteers help check and repair bluebird nest boxes in various parks to encourage these beautiful birds to nest in the spring. It gets everyone all twitter-painted.
Try something new this Valentine’s Day
The latest craze that has become wildly popular is ax throwing, but why not break away from the crowd by taking an archery class instead?
Check your local area for archery instructors who offer one-on-one classes or even small groups. Double date anyone?
Not into archery? How about trying a jujitsu class? Some places offer the first and sometimes even the second class for free, just to try it out. Why not make a date out of it?
Concluding thoughts
No matter how you decide to spend your Valentine’s Day, whether with a good friend, someone you love, a family member or hiking with your dog, do what speaks to you. What adventure will you go on this Valentine’s Day?
