One of the things I love most about living in Arizona is the abundance of wilderness areas that appear untouched by humans. It’s all around us yet sometimes living in the city can separate us from that natural connection. If you’re looking to get in touch with nature, to reduce your stress levels, or to just enjoy some fresh air, check out some of these activities to get anyone in your family out into nature.

1. Go for a nature walk at one of our state’s parks or preserves.
Richie Diesterheft/Flickr
Many of these are less than one mile and are often paved, making it easy for anyone to enjoy.
2. Stroll through a garden like the Boyce Thompson Arboretum in Superior.
khym54/Flickr
Need more ideas that might be a little closer to you? Check out our article on some of the gardens that you can find here in Arizona.
3. Float down the Salt River.
Becca Kumar/Flickr
It is that time of year again! Just remember to load up on the sunscreen and water.
4. If you want something a little more active, you can spend an afternoon at Slide Rock State Park near Sedona.
Usa.ouestamericain/Flickr
5. Or spend a couple of hours boating, kayaking, or paddleboarding on one of our rivers or lakes.
Alan Levine/Flickr
6. If you prefer to stay dry around the water, try a boat tour.
Michael/Flickr
7. Ride a ski lift for a lovely mountain view.
Alan English CPA/Flickr
8. Visit a riparian preserve like the Nina Mason Pulliam Rio Salado Audubon Center in Phoenix.
Audubon Arizona/Flickr
Get a glimpse of what life along the Salt River looked like before the dams were built.
9. Spend a morning fishing.
Devon Christopher Adams/Flickr
Check out a previous article here to find a few favorite locations.
10. Enjoy a picnic at any of our parks, preserves, and recreation areas.
Grand Canyon National Park/Flickr
Make it just a little more special with a short hike to a spot with a view.
11. Want to see nature from a bird’s eye view? Try a hot air balloon ride!
Thales/Flickr
12. If you’re not sure you’re ready for a full-on camping experience (or you need accommodations for an elder or someone with special needs), try glamping.
Grand Canyon Under Canvas/Flickr
Check out last month’s article on glamping for ideas.
13. One of my favorite activities is to finish a day with stargazing.
Justin Kern/Flickr
Drive an hour outside of the city or attend an astronomy night at one of our observatories. There are so many options.

These are just a few suggestions and Arizona has so many outdoorsy options! Be sure to let us know your favorite place to get in touch with nature. Leave a comment here or on our Facebook page.

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