Discover nature in a whole new way by going canoeing or paddling. Whether you've done it before or it's your first time, there always is a new adventure. Keep safety in mind, wear comfortable boat shoes, and have fun on this great outdoor adventure. The United States has many places that are perfect for canoeing and paddling with a friend or two. Here are a few unique and interesting locations to get you started on your outdoor journey.

Blackstone Valley, RI
Tour the waters on an unforgettable family adventure or let a few friends tag along instead. Blackstone valley has plenty of flexibility in options when it comes to canoeing and paddling tours. Become one with nature while boating through the waters of Blackstone Valley. The plentiful plants and animals you'll see along the way are a beautiful sight. Fishing and birdwatching are just a couple of the options to explore.

St. Lawrence River in Clayton, NY
Have you ever thought of building and sailing your own canoe on St Lawrence River? Regardless of your answer, you may be interested to find out there's a place that takes you through it step-by step. The Antique Boat Museum in Clayton, NY offers the plans to do so. There are also boat-building classes available. Not quite ready to build, but still want to ride the waters? They still have you covered. You can even take a guided tour of the museum's artifacts to get in a history lesson before or after sailing.

Keweenaw Water Trail, MI
Canoeing and paddling the waters of Lake Superior along Michigan's Keweenaw Water Trail offers breathtaking scenery. Winds can be unpredictable here, so it's probably not best for beginners. Those lucky enough to embark on this adventure will not soon forget it. Wildlife is abundant and fishing can provide a great meal. Camping is available around the Keweenaw Peninsula. Check with area parks and recreation departments in advance, as some land around the peninsula is privately owned. A note to remember is that because this is a naturally beautiful ecosystem, "No Trace Camping" is most appreciated and preferred.

Sources:
http://kwta.org/
http://www.paddleblackstone.com/
http://www.abm.org/canoe-sailing.asp

Marathon running is a great outdoor activity for the summer. Not only do many proceeds go toward worthy causes, but they also are great exercise. Depending on the location, you might view mountaintops, seaside waves, or the hustle and bustle of city life.

Marathon running is not just for the pros. There are varying levels of experience and even kids can participate in some marathons. From mini-marathons to those that will take you miles, many cities have a variety to offer, especially during the summer months. Some might even consider venturing to a nearby city or state to experience something different. Don't discount traveling abroad. If you live in the United States, you might even consider going to run a marathon in France or Jamaica. If traveling abroad may already be in your summer plans, check to see if the country you're visiting has a marathon at that time. This could make a summer vacation even more interesting.

Preparation for running a marathon should include preparing the body for such an extensive workout. It's one thing to run a block after the dog and yet another to go the distance of a marathon. Ask your health and fitness professional what's right for your body. Not everyone will have the same recommendations.

The day of the marathon, you should be dressed in comfortable running shoes and lightweight clothing. Generally, you'll want a form-fitting (but not tight) t-shirt and some running shorts. If it's windy, you may also need a lightweight windbreaker - again form-fitting, but not tight. Even though a shirt and shorts is often the best choice, you should still check the weather forecast for the area and dress accordingly.

Some marathons provide drinks and snacks, while others do not. It's important to bring plenty of water and also portable snacks for energy. Energy bars often are chosen for marathon runners as they are small, but filling and energizing. Other snack choices might include peanuts, trail mix, and granola bars. All of these are easy to carry in small places, yet have plenty of nourishment to last throughout the race.

Skiing and snowboarding in the summer? To some this may sound crazy or unbelievable, but it's definitely possible. The most popular spot (and pretty much the only one during certain times) for skiing and snowboarding in the summer is Mt Hood in Oregon. If that summer heat is making you nostalgic for the winter snow, this could be the perfect cure. Grab your gear and head to Mt Hood to do Ollies, Railsides, Fakies, Wildcats, Lincoln Loops, and maybe even a Mosquito or Rocket Air. Don't know what those are? Grab a book, a friend, or do an internet search to study up on snowboard and ski tricks and tips.

Before heading out, make sure you've got the essentials, like your skis or snowboard (or you can rent when you get there). Other things you'll need may include ski socks, ski boots, a hat, gloves, ski glasses, sunscreen, lip balm, a snowsuit, heat packs and a camera. That isn't a complete list, but should give you an idea.

Many Olympic hopefuls, as well as professionals train on Mt Hood even during the summer months. The U.S. National Team has even trained there. Not quite at the professional level yet? Need some lessons or have some brushing up to do on your skills? There are a variety of training camps available on Mt Hood during the summer. While Mt Hood is popular for Olympic hopefuls and professionals, you don't have to be that skilled to enjoy Mt Hood for summer skiing. All skill levels, including kids, are welcome. Group lessons, private lessons, lodging and more are offered. There also is plenty of entertainment for after skiing or snowboarding.

Mt Hood also contains what is known as America's largest night ski area, located at Mt Hood Skibowl, a ski resort that includes an adventure park. Mt Hood Adventure Park contains an alpine slide, kiddy karts and Indy karts, a summer tube hill, rock wall, bungee jumping, batting cages and so much more.

Whether you're an Olympic hopeful who can't get enough of the snow or just curious about skiing or snowboarding in the summer, Mt Hood is definitely the place to go.

Sources:
http://www.skibowl.com/
http://www.mthood.com/
http://www.skicamp.com/
http://www.publicbroadcasting.net/kplu/news.newsmain/article/1/0/1523675/KPLU.Local.News/In.Summer..Winter.Olympic.Hopefuls.Gravitate.to.Mt..Hood

Are you an adventurer at heart? Maybe you just want to try something new and exciting. If you enjoy nature and don't mind getting your feet wet (or possibly the rest of you), you may be interested in whitewater or or other river rafting in Colorado. The Colorado Rocky Mountains are well-known for skiing, but are also a popular spot for river rafting. In fact, Colorado is the number one whitewater rafting spot in the world.

Whitewater and other river rafting excursions can be a bonding experience for spouses, family, or friends. They also can be an adventure in self-reflection and the thrill of a lifetime. Keep in mind that going alone is not recommended for safety reasons. Besides, this is definitely an activity you'll want to share with others. Outdoor adventures in Colorado that include river rafting can leave each individual with something different. Speaking of different, there are many ways to have a river rafting experience in Colorado.

River rafting can be enjoyed in an oarboat, paddleboat, inflatable kayak, and more. River rafting tours are geared toward skill level and experienced guides can come along for the ride. Depending on preferences and experience, either passengers or the guide will control the watercraft. Navigation waters can either be mild or be Class 5 rapids only for the most experienced and daring of whitewater rafting adventurers.

Regardless of the water speed, be sure to have safety in mind when river rafting in Colorado. The safest river rafting excursions will include a trained tour guide who knows the area and all the safety precautions. Most river rafting tours include a safety overview, watercraft, flotation devices for everyone, and sometimes a meal and any other required gear. However, not all will be this inclusive. Be sure to check before the trip.

Don't forget the appropriate footwear and bring along a waterproof camera to capture the nature and all the best moments. Colorado has many rivers to choose from in these river rafting excursions. The Arkansas River is arguably the most popular. There also is Blue River, Colorado River, Clear Creek, Green River, Eagle River, and more. It's wise to do research on locations and options before going to be sure you choose the best experience for your purpose.

Sources:
http://www.raftcolorado.net/
http://www.coloradowhitewaterrafting.com/
http://www.coloradowhitewaterrafting.com/FAQs.htm

A trip to Texas is never complete without horseback riding. If you're a resident and haven't gone horseback riding, some may not even consider you a Texan. So, what are you waiting for? Big Bend State Park in Presidio is the biggest state park in Texas and has some of the best space and trails for horseback riding.

Ancient extinct volcanoes, mountains, canyons, and waterfalls grace this beautiful state park. The park runs along the Rio Grande and natural life is abundant. If you're looking for a true wild west experience, this is where you'll get it. Horseback riding can be done on guided tours or in the backcountry of Big Bend State Park.

Be sure to bring potable water for yourself, as well as our horses. Some water at Big Bend State Park is not potable and all must be treated. In fact, if there is anything that you think you may need for you or your horse, be sure to bring it. As mentioned, Big Bend State Park truly is the wild west, so supplies will be limited to mainly what you bring. There is a rancher station, but it has limited inventory.

As a naturally wild horseback riding adventure in Texas should be, terrain can be quite rough on your horse. Be sure that you bring extra horseshoeing equipment, just in case. You want your horse to have just as much as fun as you and to be comfortable. Speaking of comfort, don't forget about your own footwear. While riding the horse, you will need some riding boots. Any true Texan has to have boots, right? If you decide to be even more adventurous and do some hiking or backpacking, you'll need some hiking boots to tough the terrain.

Big Bend State Park can be enjoyed as a day trip or camp sites and lodging are available as well. The 480 square mile park has dozens of trails and plenty of natural features to explore. Enjoy viewing wild cactus, cottonwood groves, scrublands, and a mountainous region, including canyons and waterfalls. Big Bend State Park has all the best natural features of Texas in one place.

Sources:
http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/spdest/activities/outdoor_recreation/equestrian/
http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/spdest/findadest/parks/big_bend_ranch/