A Beginner’s Guide to Getting Outside

Getting Outside Without Overthinking It

Stepping into the outdoors for the first time can feel like a big deal. There’s this idea that to really “experience” nature, you need to be deep in the backcountry with a heavy pack and a head full of survival skills. But do you want to know the truth? It doesn’t take much. You don’t need expensive gear. You don’t need a grand destination that’s hours away. You don’t necessarily even need to leave your neighborhood.

All you really need is the desire to go outside.

Maybe you’ve always wanted to explore more but never knew where to begin. Maybe you’re tired of scrolling past gorgeous landscapes on social media, thinking, I wish I was out there. The good news is, getting outside is easier than you think. And it starts with places that are accessible, welcoming, and beginner-friendly.

1. Start Local: Parks and Preserves

We have this tendency to overlook what’s right in front of us. Local parks may not seem as exciting as a national park or some exotic far-off destination, but they’re the perfect entry point for outdoor exploration. It’s this accessibility that makes local spots important because when they’re easy to get to, we’re more apt to frequent them. 

Most cities have green spaces with walking paths, little forested trails, or even hidden pockets of nature sprinkled throughout the city that feel surprisingly wild. Nature preserves are another great option—protected areas where you can get a taste of the outdoors without worrying about tough terrain or getting lost.

Why they’re great:

• Easy, well-marked trails
• No special gear required—just comfortable shoes
• Plenty of benches, picnic spots, and places to just be

Where to look:

• City parks with nature trails (Your city’s website is typically a good resource)
• Arboretums and botanical gardens
• State and county parks and nature preserves

2. Find a Trail with a Payoff (Under 2 Miles)

If you’re feeling ready to push your limits a little beyond the parks and step onto a real trail, pick one that’s short, easy, and leads to something rewarding. A scenic overlook, a waterfall, a peaceful lake—anything that makes the walk feel like a little adventure to discover something new. 

Look for trails that are under two miles long with little elevation gain. Think of it as dipping your toes in—just enough to get a feel for the trail without feeling like you’ve committed to something exhausting. A two-mile walk can be done in under an hour, but you’ll likely find once you’re out there, you have no problem spending more time out there.  

How to find suitable trails:

• Apps like AllTrails (filter for “Easy” trails and check trail reviews)
• State park websites (they often highlight beginner-friendly hikes)
• Google searches like “easy hikes near [your city]”

And if you’re not sure? Trailhead parking lots often have maps with distances marked. You know those trailheads or little parks you’ve driven past a thousand times but never stopped? Next time, pull in and check out the information board and the map. Walk a little, see how it feels, and turn back when you’re ready. No rules. No pressure. You can return any time you’d like, there are no rules that require you to complete an entire marked trail. 

3. Stick to Paved or Boardwalk Trails

Dirt trails can be fun, but if you’re not used to uneven ground or have mobility issues, sometimes a paved or boardwalk trail is the way to go. These trails let you focus on the experience without worrying about tripping over roots or navigating rough terrain.

What makes them great?

• No surprises—smooth paths all the way
• Easy for any fitness level
• In many parks, they lead to scenic overlooks

Perfect for anyone who just wants to be outside without hiking in the traditional sense.

4. Choose a Spot with Amenities

Here’s something that makes a huge difference when you’re just starting out: picking a place that has built-in comforts.

A parking lot instead of a confusing trailhead. A bathroom nearby instead of guessing if you should’ve stopped before you got there. Clear signs, picnic tables, maybe even a visitor center where you can get a feel for the area.

These little things take the stress out of the experience. They let you ease into nature without feeling like you’re venturing into the unknown. As you become more comfortable being out and exploring new places, this anxiety will fade and amenities won’t be as important, but for now, it makes getting out there just a little bit easier. 

Look for places with:

• Accessible Parking (so you’re not circling random dirt roads)
• Restrooms (nice to have this option on-site)
• Clear signage (so you know where you’re going)
• Picnic areas (sometimes just getting out of the car to have lunch outside is all you need)

Parks and recreation areas with these amenities make everything smoother—no second-guessing, no stress.

5. Wander by the Water

If hiking through the woods isn’t your thing, start with places that have water. Lakes, rivers, and shorelines have this natural ability to provide comfort. The soothing sounds, the reflections, and the different flora and fauna make for a new adventure. 

Just sitting by the water can feel like an escape. If you want to move, keep your eyes peeled for short waterfront trails—many of them are flat, easy, and full of places to stop and take in the view. 

Great beginner-friendly water spots:

• Beaches and lakeshores
• Riverwalks in cities and small towns
• Coastal trails with ocean views

Water has a way of making everything feel more peaceful. And when you’re just starting out, that’s kind of the point.

6. Find a Spot for Wildlife Watching

Sometimes the best way to connect with the outdoors isn’t by moving through it—it’s by observing.

There are plenty of places where you can see birds, deer, or even larger animals like elk just by being in the right place at the right time. Many state and national parks have designated wildlife viewing areas with observation decks or short, easy trails leading to prime spots.

Best places for easy wildlife viewing:

• National, state, and local wildlife refuges
• State parks with birding trails
• Wetlands with boardwalks

Pro tip: Go early in the morning or around sunset—animals are more active, and the light is better if you want to take photos.

How to Find Beginner-Friendly Outdoor Spots Near You

So, how do you actually find these places? Here are a few easy methods to start with:

• Google Maps & Reviews – Search “easy hiking trails near me” and read what people say.
• Pay Attention to Your Surroundings – You probably drive past parks, green spaces, and trails all the time and don’t even realize it.
• AllTrails & Similar Apps – Filter by “Easy” and check recent trail reports.
• Local Park Websites – City, county, and state parks often list the parks they manage and offer maps.
• Join Local Outdoor Groups – Meetup, Facebook groups, or REI events can connect you with other beginners.

Starting small doesn’t mean it’s not worth doing. Every step outside is a step toward something bigger.

Just Get Out There

There’s no perfect way to start exploring the outdoors. There is no benefit to waiting. No checklist of things you have to do first. It’s just about finding a place that feels good—somewhere that makes you stop, relax, and take it all in.

Maybe it’s a quiet park five minutes from your house. Maybe it’s a short trail leading to a view you’ve never seen before. Maybe it’s just sitting by a lake, watching the ripples move across the water. Whatever it is, start somewhere. Because once you do, you might realize you don’t want to stop.