Easy Ways to Spend More Time Outside This Summer

Summer has a way of making us want to slow down, soak up the sunshine, and spend a little more time outdoors. The good news? You don't need to summit a mountain or plan an elaborate camping trip to enjoy the season.

Sometimes getting outside is as simple as taking your morning coffee to the porch, meeting friends at the park, or choosing a new route for your evening walk. Even small moments outdoors can help you recharge, enjoy the warmer weather, and break away from the routine of spending most of the day inside.

At Mountain High Outfitters, we believe adventure looks different for everyone. Whether you have an entire weekend free or only a few extra minutes each day, there are plenty of simple ways to make the most of summer. Here are a few easy ideas to help you spend more time outside this season.

Take Your Morning Routine Outside

Before the emails, meetings, and endless notifications start rolling in, try spending a few minutes outdoors.

Bring your coffee to the patio, read a few pages of a book on the porch, enjoy breakfast outside, or simply sit quietly while the neighborhood wakes up. Starting your day with a little fresh air can help you feel more energized before your schedule fills up.

A comfortable camp chair, insulated tumbler, and a little sunshine can completely change your morning routine. If you work from home, consider taking your first meeting outside or answering emails from the patio when the weather allows.

Make Your Walks More Interesting

Walking is one of the easiest ways to spend time outside, but it doesn't have to feel repetitive.

Instead of following the same route every day, try:

• Exploring a new neighborhood
• Visiting a local park
• Taking a scenic walking trail
• Walking with a friend instead of meeting for coffee
• Listening to a new podcast or playlist while you walk

Changing your scenery can make even a short walk feel like a new adventure. Throw on a comfortable pair of HOKAs or Ons, fill up your Hydro Flask, and enjoy getting a few extra steps while discovering somewhere new.

Plan a Picnic Instead of a Restaurant

Instead of sitting inside, take lunch outdoors.

Grab a Sand Cloud blanket, pack sandwiches, fresh fruit, and a few cold drinks, then head to your favorite park or green space. A soft cooler keeps everything fresh, while a portable speaker and a deck of cards can turn an ordinary lunch into a fun afternoon with friends or family.

Picnics are affordable, easy to plan, and require very little preparation. They're also a great way to enjoy beautiful weather without committing to a full-day outing.

Spend More Time Near the Water

You don't need a beach vacation to enjoy being around the water.

Look for nearby:

• Lakes
• Rivers
• Community pools
• Waterfront parks
• Reservoirs or public beaches

Even spending a few hours by the water can make an ordinary weekend feel like a getaway. Pack a YETI cooler with drinks and snacks, bring your favorite sunglasses, a comfortable chair, and a good book, and you'll have everything you need for a relaxing afternoon.

Some of the best summer memories come from simple days spent watching the water, skipping rocks, paddleboarding, or enjoying a sunset with friends.

Bring Your Workout Outdoors

If you're already exercising, try moving it outside.

Whether it's a walk, a run, stretching in the park, or a bodyweight workout at a local green space, changing your environment can make your routine feel fresh again.

You might even find yourself staying active longer when you're enjoying the scenery instead of staring at a gym wall. Early mornings and evenings are especially great times to exercise outdoors during the summer since temperatures tend to be cooler.

Don't forget plenty of water, lightweight apparel, and sunglasses if you're spending extended time in the sun.

Say Yes to Last-Minute Plans

Not every outdoor adventure needs weeks of planning.

One of the easiest ways to spend more time outside is to keep a few essentials packed and ready to go. Having your gear organized makes it much easier to accept spontaneous invitations instead of worrying about what you need to bring.

Keep these items ready:

• Water bottle
• Sunglasses
• Hat
• Lightweight backpack
• Portable hammock
• Sunscreen

Whether it's a last-minute lake day, a sunset hike, an outdoor concert, or an impromptu road trip, you'll be ready to head out the door in minutes.

Create a Summer Bucket List

One of the easiest ways to spend more time outside is to make it intentional.

Creating a simple bucket list gives you something to look forward to throughout the season. It doesn't have to be complicated or expensive—just a collection of experiences you'd like to enjoy before summer ends.

Try adding a few ideas like:

• Watch a sunrise or sunset
• Visit a new park
• Take a weekend road trip
• Have a picnic
• Read a book outside
• Spend a day at the lake
• Walk a local nature trail
• Go kayaking or paddleboarding
• Eat dinner outside
• Visit a farmers market

Crossing even a few items off your list can help you appreciate the season and create lasting memories.

Invite Friends and Family Outside

Spending time outdoors is even more enjoyable when you bring other people along.

Instead of meeting indoors, suggest grabbing coffee to-go and walking around downtown, hosting a backyard cookout, playing yard games at the park, or planning a family evening at a local green space.

Simple gatherings often end up being the most memorable because the focus stays on spending time together instead of planning something elaborate.

The Essentials for More Time Outside

You don't need much to enjoy summer, but having the right gear makes every outing a little more comfortable.

Summer Essentials:

✓ Reusable water bottle

✓ Sunglasses

✓ Hat

✓ Lightweight layer

✓ Backpack or tote

✓ Camp chair or picnic blanket

✓ Cooler for snacks and drinks

Keeping these basics nearby means you'll always be ready for whatever opportunity comes your way.

Make the Most of Summer with Mountain High Outfitters

The best part about spending more time outside isn't how far you go—it's simply making the choice to get out there.

Whether you're planning a weekend getaway, a picnic in the park, an afternoon by the lake, or a quick walk around the neighborhood, Mountain High Outfitters has the gear to help you stay comfortable and enjoy every moment.

This summer, challenge yourself to spend a little more time outdoors. You don't have to travel far or spend a lot to make meaningful memories. Sometimes the best adventures are the ones waiting just outside your front door.