I wish I could tell you what day of quarantine it is, but I’ve honestly lost track of time.
Days are becoming a blur. March truly felt like the longest year EVER.
Us Nevadans, still have 2 weeks left of this thang called quarantine! Fingers crossed.
For those of us who love the outdoors, how are you holding up?
Personally, I miss hiking. Exploring. Traveling. I miss the national parks. All the adventures.
To stay active, I’ve brainstormed ways to cope through all of this and wanted to share what’s helping my restlessness during quarantine.
1. Find Hikes or Walking Trails in Your Community.
For hikers, there’s not many options to get your fix on the popular trails. Most areas in Red Rock Canyon and Mt. Charleston are closed for safety.
The good news is there’s still lesser known areas to hike or walk, but the key is to do research. One of my favorite apps to start with is All Trails. Based on your location, it’s a resource of which hikes are nearby by toggling through a list or map view.
Keep in mind alternate spots if the trail you’re planning to trek is crowded.
In the past, I wouldn’t look for trails near my home. But since mostly everything is closed, I’ve discovered alternatives with equally beautiful views and scenery.
2. Change Up Your Workout Routine & Go Outside.
One thing I’ve learned during quarantine is I genuinely enjoy yoga, especially in the morning after coffee. It’s become an essential part of my routine. I’ve been using the Down Dog app, which is free until May.
Over time, I start to get tired of being cooped up in the house all day. To change up my workout routine, my husband and I walk to the park across our neighborhood to do laps and stairs for cardio.
It’s nice to switch up being outside while getting fresh air.
3. Be a Kid Again & Play a Game Outdoors.
It’s such an uncertain time, and the stresses of being an adult can suck. At least for me.
While getting groceries one night, my husband and I needed a pick-me-up. We walked down the toy aisle and grabbed nostalgic things that would keep us busy (and really just lift our spirits).
Our favorite purchase has been a $6 kite at Target.
For those extra windy days, we take the kite out to this grassy area near our home. It’s been very entertaining to try and fly it as high as we can. It’s almost like a reminder of the good ole days, and better days to come.
4. Plan Your Next National Park Trip.
With all the downtime, I’ve been brushing up on my knowledge of national parks… plus planning where I want to visit next, once it’s safe to travel again.
Recently, I purchased a book ‘USA National Parks: The Complete Guide to All 59 Parks’ to keep me busy. I’m already starting to daydream about my next trip. Who wants to go?!
If you don't want to buy a book, there’s some captivating documentaries that will get you inspired.
Netflix has a ‘National Park Adventure’ with stunning video of the national parks and amazing soundtrack. Disney+ members can also enjoy the National Geographic section which highlights ‘America’s National Parks’.
5. Check Your Outdoor Gear & Create a Wishlist.
Since campgrounds and national parks are closed, take the opportunity to go through all of your outdoor gear.
Are you in the market for new hiking shoes?
Is there any new camping gadgets you’ve had your eye on?
Start doing research on items you’ve been looking to buy, and create a wishlist. Even better if you have an unused gift card, and can order it now.
If you can afford it right now, consider buying from the online gift shops of Red Rock Canyon and Mt. Charleston.
All proceeds support your local recreation areas. Currently, the Southern Nevada Conservancy Online Store is offering free shipping on items over $20 while the shops are closed.
6. Date Night or Family Night Idea: Camp Inside & Make S’mores.
It’s important to find creative ways to have fun inside the home, especially in your relationships. Try to recreate a camping trip inside.
Many couples (and families) are setting up tents or building forts in the living room. Make it a movie night. Grab the popcorn. And you gotta have s’mores!
If you try one of our ideas, share a social media post and tag #thewritehike. We can’t wait to see!