- Hiking is an eco-friendly way to explore nature and appreciate its unique sights, smells, and sounds.
- Dog sledding can be a fun family activity while learning about mushing and the environment.
- Bird watching is a peaceful way to observe birds in their natural habitat while promoting conservation efforts.
- Camping is a great way to unplug from technology and explore the outdoors — but bring eco-friendly supplies and clean up any trash you brought before leaving.
Whether you love animals, plants, or just being outdoors, there are plenty of ways to enjoy nature. But how can you appreciate nature while still taking care of it? Eco-friendly travel is a great way to explore the world around you without damaging the planet. Here are a few ideas to get you started and help you connect with nature in its purest form.
Hiking
One of the best ways to explore nature is on foot. Hiking is a great family activity that doesn’t require much equipment or money.
You can find plenty of trails near your home or travel further away and find more secluded spots for an adventure. Consider a local nature preserve or state park; they are full of interesting plants and animals you wouldn’t find in your backyard.
Be sure to take your time and appreciate all the unique sights, smells, and sounds you’ll encounter. Additionally, make sure to not leave anything behind. Dispose of your trash properly, and don’t disturb any plants or animals that you come across.
Dog Sledding
Love dogs? Then a fun dog sled tour is an excellent way to take in all of nature’s beauty without harming it. Depending on the tour, you may get to meet and interact with the sled team before making your way out onto the trails.
With some tours, you also have the chance to learn about mushing, its science, and other interesting facts about the environment. Be sure to bring your camera and capture some amazing shots of the breathtaking scenery along the way.
Remember to be respectful of the dogs and the environment. Follow your guide’s instructions and be aware of your surroundings.
Bird Watching
Bird-watching is one of the most peaceful activities out there for nature lovers. Not only do you get to observe some beautiful creatures in their natural environment, but it also helps promote conservation efforts as well as scientific studies about birds’ behavior and migration patterns.
All you need is a pair of binoculars and some patience — who knows what kind of feathered friends you might spot. For instance, the majestic bald eagle is commonly seen near bodies of water, so if you’re lucky, you might spot one flying high above the trees.
It’s best to do a bit of research before going out and also be aware of your presence. Move slowly, speak quietly, and keep your distance in order to avoid disturbing the birds or any other wildlife you come across.
Camping
Nothing beats camping when it comes to connecting with nature. It’s a great opportunity to unplug from technology and spend quality time with family or friends while exploring the great outdoors. Here are tips for making the most of your time camping:
Choose a Good Spot
When choosing a spot, try to pick a location that is away from urban areas and full of natural sights and sounds. Look for places that are next to rivers, lakes, or wildlife preserves, as these often provide beautiful scenery and rare wildlife sightings. Make sure to be aware of your surroundings and camp responsibly.
Bring Eco-friendly Camping Gear
When gathering up your camping supplies, make sure to bring items that are environmentally friendly such as natural soap, a reusable water bottle or mug, and biodegradable garbage bags. By taking extra precautions when packing for a camping trip, you can help minimize your impact on the environment.
Don’t Forget Food and Drinks
Make sure to bring enough food and drinks for the duration of your stay. Stick with sustainable options that can be taken home or disposed of properly, such as reusable containers and biodegradable packaging. Pack snacks like trail mix, dried fruit, nuts, seeds, and other nonperishable items to avoid wasting food.
Pack Out Anything You Bring In
Before leaving, be sure to leave no trace of your stay. Pack out any garbage you bring in and dispose of it properly. Also, make sure to bring a trash bag with you while hiking and pick up any litter that you come across along the way.
Eco-friendly travel offers people so many opportunities to enjoy nature in its purest form without having any negative impacts on the planet or harming any wildlife they encounter along the way. So grab those hiking boots, binoculars, or tents and start exploring. There are plenty of ways for adventure and animal lovers alike to connect with nature while still taking care of it — so what are you waiting for?
