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Zen poet Gary Snyder said, “Nature isn’t a place to visit. It’s a home.” If the great outdoors is our true home, then what’s better than experiencing all it can offer us? In our modern world, those who seek adventure can partake in an assortment of traditional and unconventional outdoor activities.
If you’re a spirited individual who desires a unique thrill, read on. We’ve compiled a list of sports, hobbies, and endeavors you might want to give a shot. Here are a few offbeat outdoor activities worth trying out.
Sandboarding
You may know snowboarding and classic street skateboarding, but how about the strange sport of sandboarding? Anyone can participate in and practice this high-energy activity all year long in the dunes and their surroundings. Like snowboarding, skateboarding, and surfing, achieving awesome freestyle tricks is possible with sandboarding. The bonus is that you hit forgiving sand instead of harsh concrete or waves if you wipe out.
That said, this niche activity is not a piece of cake. The slippery sand mountainside has a different learning curve for boarders. So you may need to take a couple of runs before you can confidently groove down the dunes.
Heli-Skiing
Experienced skiing enthusiasts may enjoy the unmatched possibilities of this mountainside activity. Instead of taking that traditional gondola to the top of the slope with hundreds of other skiers, you can take a helicopter to the top of an untouched mountain to have the pristine downhill slope to yourself.
With today’s efficient technology, adventurers can revel in the rewards of extreme off-trail skiing in natural terrain. Keep in mind that skiing in the backcountry has its risks, though. Nevertheless, professional guides and operations can provide an unforgettable once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
Hang Gliding
Out of all the offbeat outdoor activities worth trying out, hang gliding is unique because it takes place in the sky. This recreational air sport dates back over a century. Instead of standing on the ground and flying a kite high above, you soar up in the air with a kite-esque flying machine. These gliders allow humans to fly with wings using nothing but the wind. You can either glide smoothly and maneuver through the sky with practice or fly tandem with a trained glider. With a one-of-a-kind birds-eye view and a remarkable rush, you’ll never want to come back to the ground.
Stand-Up Paddleboarding
Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is a thrilling watersport in itself—this unique aquatic activity offers participants a brand-new window into the world. Wherever you happen to be on the planet, you can have an immersive, refreshing adventure on a paddleboard.
If you desire a memorable and satisfying experience, you can upgrade your SUP ventures with different techniques, gear, and activities. The best feature of all is its limitless possibilities. Ready for SUP Yoga or SUP fishing? Perhaps you want to try SUP Surfing on a rigid or inflatable board? Stand-up paddleboarding makes riding waves a possibility for almost anyone. Regardless of your choice, you’ll find an unusual outdoor activity with which to savor the great outdoors. On your next weekend or vacation, adventure awaits.
