Father’s Day is nearly here, and while every dad appreciates new clothes and gear, one of the most valuable gifts you could give him is quality time. We have some ideas on how you can celebrate your dad and enjoy the outdoors at the same time.

Spend the day on the trail

If the dad in your life loves clearing his mind on long hikes through the wilderness, pick one of his favorite trails, and plan a day excursion. You could pack a picnic to enjoy in a clearing or set up a hammock and just relax for a while. 

You could also surprise him with a new trail that you think might be a new favorite. If he’s a new dad and hasn’t had the opportunity to hike as much as he would like because of family duties, surprise him with the Osprey Poco Child Carrier. Its family-friendly features include a removable drool pad, toy attachment loops, and a zippered lower compartment large enough to stash a diaper changing kit. 

Spend the day on the water

Does your dad count down the hours until he can head to the lake? Does he look for excuses to take his boat out? Is he drawn to hikes that include waterfalls? Does he talk about fishing trips from long ago? Congratulations, you’ve got yourself a water dad. 

There are studies that have found people living near bodies of water tend to feel healthier and happier. A marine biologist, Wallace J. Nichols, Ph.D., even wrote a book about the physical and psychological benefits of water called Blue Mind.

So why not reward him with some restorative time on the water? Plan a kayaking or canoeing trip or book a weekend at the lake or beach.

Spend some time in the backyard

I know it seems like we have all spent a lot of time at home lately. But we have been working from home, going to online classes, and managing a lot of stressors that can cast a shadow over the joys of just hanging out at home.

So plan a day where he can relax and unwind. Does he like to barbecue for the family? Then buy everything he needs for a cookout! Does he like to play cornhole or disc golf in the backyard? Then stock up on his favorite appetizers and beverages and set up the game!

Watch a sunset together

Whether you make the dad in your life an awesome late-morning brunch at home or spend the weekend on the lake or at the beach, the perfect way to end the day is to catch a sunset together.

According to Psychology Today, studies show appreciating natural beauty may boost well-being, increase generosity, and enhance life satisfaction. You could visit one of Alabama’s awesome lookout spots or just find a spot near you and enjoy.

Work on a pet project together

Does the dad in your life have a pet project outdoors that he never has time to complete? Maybe you should offer to spend the day helping out. Does he want to organize his garage or start a backyard garden? Is he trying to finish some landscaping projects or build a backyard climbing wall? Make sure he has the right tools and gear needed to scratch that project off his list. Then end the day making some gourmet s’mores!

Let us help you find the perfect gift for your dad! We want everyone to enjoy the outdoors, and we work to build loyalty one connection at a time. Visit one of our stores today or shop online and choose curbside pickup or standard shipping. #BeOutdoors