Step outside and enjoy the fresh air. Fall is here and the weather is finally showing it! As the temperature begins to drop, we want to encourage you to continue to stay active and go outside. After all, this time only comes once a year and you should enjoy every changing leaf in sight. Solo runs in the fall can be lovely, but you can also mix it up with activities that will keep the whole family active together. Whether you’re going for a walk around the block or planning a family camping trip, there are a lot of different ways to enjoy nature while staying active. We have some suggestions in case you’re lacking ideas for family-friendly outside activities.

Go Mountain Biking.

Unlike riding  on the road, mountain biking gives you the opportunity to ride over hills, rocks, tree stumps and so much more, which helps to work different muscles. It is an intense workout that also allows you to enjoy your surroundings as you bike through the wilderness. Biking uphill can burn up to 600 calories an hour, while going downhill tests your balance. Go out for a ride and enjoy nature.

Go Apple Picking.

Fall is a great time for apple picking, the apples are ripe and ready to be eaten. Also, it’s the season for classic fall treats like pie and cider. There’s nothing better than homemade apple pie or apple cider, especially with apples you  picked yourself. Apple picking is the perfect family activity for the fall. It gets everyone outside for a relaxed stroll. Apples are also a good choice to eat before you work out so you can enjoy the fruits of your labor after picking them.

Try Rock Climbing.

The fall is one of the best times of the year to go rock climbing. Not only is it a better atmosphere in the fall, but the lack of leaves on the trees allows for more visibility while climbing. Rock climbing is an intense exercise that relies mainly on your upper body and core strength to pull your body up and bring it closer to the mountain.

Play Touch Football.

Hey, it’s football season so why can’t you join in on the fun? Grab some friends on a weekend and go out and throw around the pigskin. Playing touch football for just an hour is enough to keep you active and burning calories.

Go on a Hike.

Whether you’re going on a quick hour-long hike or a longer excursion, there are ways to prepare yourself for the adventure in order to make your time outside more enjoyable. Pack a picnic – you want to enjoy your hike, so stop when you’ve made it to the top (or halfway through) and enjoy a snack and your surroundings with your friends and family.

Go Camping.

While camping may not be the most physically demanding activity, it gets you outside in nature and that’s what fall is all about. Besides, getting to your campsite and setting up your gear can be harder than you think. Fall is also the perfect time for camping because there is a dramatic decrease in the amount of insects in the environment. Just remember to pack enough warm clothes.

Start Running on Trails.

Just because it’s getting colder doesn’t mean you should be stuck inside for your workout. Staying on the treadmill for months on end is not good for your back or  knees. It’s a good idea to mix it up by trying out some local trails. Get outside and enjoy the changing colors of the  leaves around you; immerse yourself in nature. Not only is trail running useful to get you out of the house in the fall, it is also less harmful to your body than running on streets and pavement. Don’t forget to dress properly; not all running shoes are made for outside trails. Also remember to wear  gloves; cold air can burn your hands more than you think.

Go Kayaking.

With three rivers in the middle of the city, Pittsburgh is the perfect place to go kayaking. In the fall, kayaking can bring a sense of serenity while also being physically intense. Kayaking is an excellent form of exercise that works your core and upper body muscles. Just make sure you get outside on the rivers before they start to freeze.