How to Spend Valentine's Day Outdoors

     It's February and everyone knows that means Valentine's Day is just around the corner, all you have to do is walk into your nearest store and see all the red and pink hearts, chocolates, cards, and gifts to remind you of its arrival.  But you don't have to settle for just buying a card and some candy, instead be creative and think outside the typical-movie-night box.  Get out into nature, go hiking, go to the lake, bird watching, or star gazing; your Valentine's Day doesn't have to be the same as everyone else's  In fact if you are here, you already aren't like everyone else because you are a shopper of camping and hiking gear.  So, this month we give you some great ideas on how to spend the day (or night) with your loved one outdoors and in a more memorable way than the normal dinner and a movie.  And if you are flying solo this year, that's ok too, just invite your friends to any of these activities, it can be pal-entine's day!

1.  Watch the sunrise or sunset from the vantage point of a scenic trail or mountain.  We are starting off with a heavy hitter here, what could be more romantic than watching the always majestic and beautiful sunrise or sunset?  Just search for trails near you and hopefully you can find one that will view east or west and that way you can position  yourselves for a great photographic show.  Find a lake to sit by or if you are lucky and live near some mountains, then find a short easy hike to a scenic overlook.  Take a snack and a blanket to sit on while you enjoy what the sun has to offer.

2. Stargazing.  What would be more fitting than to stay for the stars after watching the sunset, especially if you live somewhere away from light pollution.  Take a telescope and bundle up under a blanket while you look for shooting stars and the constellations.  Listen to the wind rustle the trees as you enjoy each other's company and talk of fun things like what trips you will take in the future.  If you live in a big city with a lot of light pollution, find an area one or two hours away that will be easy to get to, at least there won't be crowds of people to contend with.

3. Beach picnic and sunset.  We always talk about mountains and forests here, but we can't forget about the beautiful beaches.  If you live near a scenic beach, then it would be a perfect date if you packed a picnic and found a cozy spot to watch the sunset over the ocean.  Of course I realize there are only certain places you can watch the sunset over the ocean (West coast) but if you are near the gulf coast, you can still watch the sunset near the ocean.  

4. Horseback riding.  There are plenty of ranches that sell horseback riding sessions which is a very fun activity to do with a loved one or friend.  It normally involves being in a group that is led by an employee on their horse and they take you on a scenic trail around the property or park.  It is a nice way to take in nature if you have never ridden on a horse.  The experience is unforgettable and gives you a new appreciation for the majestic steeds that were such an integral part of the history of America.

5.  Hot air balloon.  If you have the money for it, I highly recommend a hot air balloon ride, especially if you live out west.  They are expensive and will take most of the day due to the long set up before dawn, the ride that should last at least an hour if the wind is right, and then the landing and deflating the balloon takes a couple hours.  But floating in a basket high above the Earth is fantastic.  Take your camera!

6. Helicopter tour.  Getting a helicopter tour can be a romantic and exhilarating experience.  If you are more of a thrill seeking couple, this is for you.  A helicopter tour can give you a bird's eye view you would never get of the area and can be really great if you are near an island or coastline.

7. Boat ride.  This can be any boat, a paddleboat, kayak, or canoe.  An intimate boat ride on a lake near you can be a perfect date where you can be alone and enjoy scenery around you.  Take some binoculars and spot the wildlife surrounding you.

8. Sleigh ride.  A ride in a horse drawn sleigh through snow in some beautiful mountain setting is definitely a romantic treat for the books.  Imagine snuggling under a warm blanket with your loved one as you ride through wonderful scenery (hopefully snow covered mountains).  If you are not around snow, then you can probably find horse drawn carriage rides, which can also be very fun and romantic, and at least you won't be cold.

9.  Ice skating.  This can be a great date whether you have an indoor rink or an outdoor rink.  Don't worry about being good at it, you are just there to have fun and be with your loved one.  Ice skating is great exercise and is worth trying at least once, you never know, you may find out you are great at it and have a knack for it.  Then once you are through skating (and falling) go get some favorite eats.  There is nothing like slipping on hard ice to work up an appetite.

  I hope you this list gives you some great alternative ideas for Valentine's day this year or any year.  And hey, who says these dates have to be for Valentine's day?  Honestly you don't have to do these for February 14th, do it for your anniversary or birthday celebration.  What other adventures can you think of to do with your loved one to grow closer and have fun with?  Don't just settle for the same cards and chocolates, instead wow him or her with a fantastic idea out of the norm and straight from the heart.  Happy Valentine's Day!