Take Microadventures This Summer!

Author Alastair Humphreys defines a microadventure as “an adventure that is short, simple, local, cheap — yet still fun, exciting, challenging, refreshing, and rewarding.”

He writes, “As the world’s population becomes increasingly urbanized, busy, and stuck in front of screens, microadventures offer a realistic escape to wilderness, simplicity, and the great outdoors — without needing to ski to the South Pole or move to a cabin in Patagonia.”

Humphreys' book on microadventures has inspired people to sleep under the stars in their backyards, hike local hills, and rediscover nearby nature.

I love the idea of venturing out to a county park or nearby trail, but I also believe microadventures can be urban. You might explore your town by foot or bike to a neighboring city. The point is: microadventures are small, doable getaways for people with full lives.

Summer is the perfect time to embrace them — the days are long, the weather is warm, and even a few hours outside can feel like a true escape. Microadventures can help you savor the season, even if you’re working full time.

Here are a few ideas to spark your next mini-escape:

Microadventure Ideas:

• Go stargazing at a nearby park or lake.
• Take a midweek evening hike and have a sunset picnic.
• Camp out in your backyard or on a hilltop.
• Volunteer for a few hours at a local farm or garden.
• Swim in a nearby lake or river.
• Rent a canoe or kayak for a day on the water.
• Plan a picnic in an urban park.
• Explore a new museum in your city or a neighboring town.
• Take a train or bus to the next town and wander on foot.
• Bike a trail or route you haven’t tried before.
• Visit a state park you’ve never been to.
• Go birdwatching or forest bathing in a local nature area.

The sky’s the limit. Whether it’s a half-day, an evening, or a spontaneous weekend, microadventures help you reconnect with nature, movement, and wonder — no plane ticket required.

What kind of microadventure will you plan this summer?