14 Fun Low-impact Outdoor Activity Ideas for Adventurers

Looking for outdoor activity ideas that are low-impact friendly? As someone with joint pain, I feel you! Luckily outdoor adventures come in various difficulty levels across different terrains. From kayaking to hiking and everything in between, getting out in nature is the best way to experience unique places.

Use this guide to learn all about low-impact outdoor activities that you can find on your travels (that won’t totally suck for your joints.)

Don’t let your skill level or physical fitness determine whether you get to experience the great outdoors. Soft adventure tourism is becoming more popular every day because it allows more people to experience outdoor adventures.

As someone with lupus, I love being inspired to move my body in safe ways while seeing the wonders of the world!

A low-impact adventure is exactly what it sounds like! Activities that help prevent stress on the joints and body (like running and jumping activities.)

This type of soft adventure doesn’t require lots of experience and training beforehand. So, a low-impact adventure is more accessible to more people.

People choose low-impact adventure for a myriad of reasons. Maybe they’re just getting started and don’t want to do too much; maybe they’re recovering from an injury; maybe it is a medical reason; etc. While there are numerous benefits to low-impact adventure, here are two that stick out most to me:

Gentle on the Joints

The CDC defines low-impact activities as movement that doesn’t put stress on the joints. Also, think of fluid joint movement, like cycling or swimming.

As someone with lupus (which affects my joints and can cause rheumatoid arthritic symptoms), doing relatively joint-friendly activities is important to me.

When trying new outdoor activity ideas that are gentle on the joints, however, you should note some can still be considered moderate intensity. And since you can find outdoor adventure and soft adventure tourism at all intensity levels, keep that in mind if you’re a beginner.

Perfect for All People

If you want to go on an adventure but you’re recovering from an injury, low-impact outdoor activity ideas are the answer. They’re also great for certain groups, like those who are pregnant, people struggling with joint inflammation, and those with select physical limitations.

From paved or accessible trails to seated outdoor adventure, or slower-paced excursions, low-impact activities are a great way to see the sites, get outdoors, and have new experiences.

Let’s explore some low-impact activity ideas so you can adventure more. Below I’ve provided soft adventure things to do for people seeking low-impact activities outdoors.

1. Horseback Riding

You’ll find horseback riding in many climates, from the islands to the mountains. Before you head out, your guide will probably walk you around the corral and give you pointers on how to work with your horse.

Horseback riding can be physically demanding. While it’s easy on the joints because you’re sitting, be prepared to have sore muscles afterward. It requires arm and core strength, balance, and posture.

You’ll build a relationship with your horse and they’ll look to you for these physical queues so they know what you want them to do. It can be a truly rewarding experience!

2. Day Hikes

Hiking is versatile and works for people at all skill levels. Choose a hike on a shorter loop or a paved path that’s accessible to people who use a wheelchair or other mobility aids. Go with a more inclined path to get some cardio in or stroll down a flat path and take a deep breath of fresh air.

Just keep the elevation in mind because it can make even an easy path more challenging. Day hikes are great because you aren’t staying on the trail overnight / figuring out camping logistics. Catch stunning views and take some pictures before heading back to the comfort of your bed!

3. Cruising and boating

Some of the biggest bucket list destinations and views can be seen from a boat. Most cruises are super accommodating to any physical limitations you may have.

Wake up every morning in a different location and take advantage of times at each stop. To get movement in, you can stroll on the deck, dance the night away, or head to the pool—all great low-impact options.

Similarly, canoeing or kayaking allows you to explore coastline beach caves and bays. These are sights you would miss out on if you stayed on land. Don’t forget your life jacket on a smaller watercraft.

4. Biking

If you want to get around on your own during your trip, biking is a great option. Larger cities are often very tourist-friendly with rentable public bikes and lots of bike paths. See all the major landmarks on your own time while getting in excellent low-impact movement.

Want to skip the bustle of larger city traffic while biking? Parks and their surrounding towns often emphasize bike paths too. Low-impact adventure on a photogenic scenic trail is worth it.

Biking is ideal for people who want to get into physical activity that’s easy on their knees and feet. However, be prepared to work all your major muscle groups and get your heart rate up. 

5. Scenic Walks

Just going on a walk is a great way to see more of the area you’re visiting (and get you over the 10,000 steps mark!)

Go on a scenic stroll in a park or a self-guided tour through the city center for a great low-impact outdoor activity. This kind of movement is not only beneficial for your body but also for your spirit.

Walking allows you to control levels of intensity, even more so than day hiking. Plan out your walk and take advantage of public benches and food stops on your route as needed. A scenic walk also allows you to focus more on the sites around you, helping you be more present.

6. Interpretive Nature Trails

If you like diving deeper into the history of natural areas, an interpretive trail is a wonderful low-impact adventure! These educational trails are mostly paved and accessible to all people. They tend to be shorter trails with beautiful placards along the trail that you can read.

The Salt Creek Interpretive Trail in the Death Valley National Park is a great example. Wheelchairs can move along this half-mile-long boardwalk path that’s set over the ancient body of water. Learn all about the area’s unique prehistoric ecosystem with unique flora and isolated pupfish that survived thousands of years.

7. Snorkeling and Scuba Diving

There are all kinds of water sports for all types of skills. Snorkeling and scuba diving are great low-impact outdoor activity ideas that allow your body to move freely without putting stress on your joints. Water sports are usually moderate-intensity activities because they require all your muscles to engage.

These types of activities should remind you that it just takes a little creativity and courage to see the world in a new way!

8. Tubing

Head to the Frio River in Texas and float through the desert hill country while enjoying a drink and sunshine. Enjoy stunning views of the southwest while you float along. It’s a great way to enjoy the water without too much physical effort.

Tubing is also great for those who are nervous about deep water. If you aren’t secure in your swimming ability, tubing might be for you. Generally, you’ll tube down a river in waist-deep water. When you need to get out of your tube, just wade along!

9. Motorized Sports

If you want a thrilling experience during your travels that’s also easy on the joints, consider motorized vehicles like ATVs on land or jet skis on the water. These machines are relatively easy to use and can be found all over the world. Plus, they’re a fun way to see tourist attractions you can’t get to by car.

While difficult terrain can affect the impact level of riding, you control your speed and research the trails beforehand to pick the one that is right for you. 

10. Swimming and paddle Boarding

Head to the beach at any vacation destination and get in the water. Swimming is one of the quality low-impact outdoor activity ideas that relieve pressure on joints. Plus, studies have shown that swimming in warm water can relieve inflammation associated with conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.

Enjoy the pink sand beaches of Bermuda while swimming in its blue waters or float in the Dead Sea with all its mineral benefits. You can relieve pressure on joints by floating or get in some cardio by swimming laps against the waves.

Want to challenge yourself? Try a bit of SUP (stand-up paddle boarding) while out there!

11. Safari Tour

Planning excursions into undeveloped land can seem like a daunting task if you’re worried about accessibility.

You’ll find many safari companies like GoAfrica, however, that can help you with the finer details. They promote a wide variety of multiple-day animal safari types, from hiking safaris to wheelchair-accessible safaris and more in between.

Sometimes a vehicle safari is an even better way to have a wildlife experience. You have a great view and you don’t have to worry about coming too close to the wildlife or getting lost. Plus, you’re in the care of experienced guides.

12. Hot Air Balloon

Experience adventure with your feet off the ground. A great low-impact way to see stunning views is by hot air balloon.

Go hot air ballooning in Luxor, Egypt or high above the Teotihuacan Pyramids in Mexico and you’ll understand why there’s nothing like seeing ancient structures from the sky.

Hot air ballooning isn’t recommended for children under 5 years old or pregnant people. Also, keep in mind that most rides last 3 to 4 hours and require you to be on your feet for most of it.

13. Cross Country Skiing

Cross-country skiing is considered the easiest snow sport to learn for beginners! (So they say — I didn’t find it THAT easy.)

It’s a great low-impact sport, but still requires a decent amount of physical labor. The key is to stay warm and use the proper equipment.

Enjoy the sleepy snow-blanketed countryside with an off-trail trek. For those looking for a gentle experience, I suggest sticking to the groomed trails. It’s a great way to perfect your skill and you’ll love the feeling of gliding over the snow (if that’s your thing!)

14. Camping

Get back to nature and enjoy a quality low-impact outdoor activity by camping.  You can rough it in the backcountry, set up camp at a more polished campsite, or lay out your RV campsite with the works– the options are limitless.

Camping allows you access to nature while still allowing you to honor any physical restrictions you may have. Most national state parks are wheelchair accessible, and people of all ages take advantage of camping there every year.

Enjoy Your Low-Impact Outdoor Adventure!

Getting outdoors and moving your body offers numerous benefits for your mental and physical health. Challenge yourself with these low-impact outdoor activity ideas that you can enjoy close to home.

You might be surprised by the number of outdoor adventures that are gentle on your body. Don’t be afraid to search for activity accommodations and ask questions about your limits.

It’s because of resilient advocates that there are so many accessible activities today that were once less inclusive.

* * *

Hey Pinterest Fam!

Save this list of Best Low-impact Outdoor Activity Ideas by pinning the image below to your planning board.