5 Adventurous Recreational Activities You Probably Haven't Tried

I don’t know about you, but I think one of the best ways to adventure is to connect with different elements of nature, and to do something that excites you.

There are a lot of ways to do that, especially through recreational activities like hiking or biking. But what about the more off-the-beaten-path stuff? If you’re looking for a new adventure, here are 5 adventurous recreational activities you can add to your bucket list (if you haven’t already).

1. Snorkeling or Diving

This is for all you ocean lovers out there. Whether you live near the ocean or are just on a vacation, there are plenty of places to learn to snorkel or dive; and it could be a one-time thing, or it could be a unique hobby (though one is more expensive, and requires more gear than the other).

Either way, it offers ocean lovers views of ocean life. Sadly, I’ve never been, but I’m definitely adding this to my bucket list.

2. White Water Rafting

I know this one sounds a little frightening (and your guide may very well share some horror stories), but this is one unique experience you’ll want to have. Listen to everything your guide says before and during rafting; they know how to keep you safe, and it’s their job to get you down the river in one piece.

And, believe or not, it’s not all about the rapids. There should be some periods where you just drift and paddle along, taking in everything around you; depending on where you raft and who you raft with, you might even be able to get in the water and take a ride through a Class I rapid.

3. Dirt Biking

Dirt biking just sounds cool, okay. If you’re looking to get into an out-of-the box sport, this might be the one for you. Like any sport, it takes practice, and this one will give you a lot of adrenaline.

Of course, if you’re serious about it, you’ll need some gear; for beginners or anyone who just wants to try it out, pit bikes are smaller (and cheaper) bikes that are easier to ride. Now, go get some air!

4. Horseback Riding

Horseback riding can be calming, and it can be more exciting. Either way, I find it invigorating. If you do a quick search, you might be surprised to find somewhere nearby that offers horseback riding as an activity, especially if you live near a horse farm, national park, state park, or vacation resort.

Lots of places offer guided trail rides, and you can usually choose your skill level; more basic rides mostly include walking with the occasional trot thrown in. If horses freak you out, guided rides are good for you, because the horses are used to it. You could ride through forests or mountains, or even along a beach.

5. Snowmobiling

Another thing I’ve never done, but also sounds pretty epic, especially since I’m from the Midwest, where we get lots and lots of snow…All those other activities get put on hold during the winter, so why not try a new winter activity? Snowmobiling might be fun if you don’t like skiing or other slope activities. Of course, if you don’t like snow, then I can’t help you.

Whatever you want to add to your list, if you do your research, you can certainly find a way to do it. Or, the same is true if you’re just looking for a new, interesting hobby. No matter your stage of life, or what kind of activity you’re looking for, there are plenty of adventures to be had. So, go. Get out there.

Featured photo credit: Virginia State Parks via flickr.com

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