This season, I have been challenging myself to step into my backyard to see the sunrise; getting that kick start of vitamin D and fresh air has been great practice every morning. Fall has this special way of pulling you outside, doesn’t it? After the intense summer heat, there’s nothing quite like stepping into the crisp autumn air with the leaves crunching beneath your feet.
Fall Scenic Drive Up North Wisconsin The cooler weather, bright foliage, and a sense of slowing down before winter arrives make it the perfect time to get moving outdoors. You don’t need to be an athlete or plan a big trip—just a little creativity can go a long way. So, if you’re itching to enjoy some fresh air and stay active this fall, here are ten simple and enjoyable ways to do it.
1. Take a Scenic Hike
Hiking in the fall is like walking through a live painting. The trails are quieter, and the trees are ablaze with color, making it the perfect time to explore nature. You don’t need to climb a mountain; a local park or forest trail can do wonders. The fresh air and natural beauty will make you feel refreshed and energized. There’s something about being in the middle of a golden forest that makes you feel more alive, and it’s a great way to clear your mind. This season,
2. Hop on Your Bike
If walking isn’t your thing, grab a bike and go for a ride. Fall biking is a joy—the perfect blend of cool air and colorful scenery. Whether you ride around your neighborhood or hit up a dedicated bike path, it’s fun to get your heart pumping without feeling like you’re working out. Plus, biking lets you cover more ground, meaning you can see more of those stunning autumn landscapes.
3. Rake (and Jump in) Some Leaves
Okay, I know what you’re thinking: raking leaves isn’t exactly fun. But here’s the thing—it’s actually a pretty great workout, and if you add in a little leaf-jumping afterward, it becomes way more enjoyable. Raking engages your arms, core, and legs, giving you a full-body workout without even stepping into a gym. And hey, once the hard work is done, take a moment to jump into that pile. You’ll feel like a kid again, and isn’t that the best part of fall?
4. Go Apple Picking
Apple picking is a fall rite of passage. Not only do you get to roam around beautiful orchards, but you also get a gentle workout from all that walking and reaching for the perfect apples. It’s one of those activities that doesn’t feel like exercise, but by the end of the day, you’ve logged plenty of steps. Plus, you go home with fresh apples to eat or bake into something delicious. It’s a win-win for both your health and your taste buds.
5. Get Lost in a Corn Maze
Fall wouldn’t be complete without a trip to a corn maze. It’s not just fun and festive—it’s also an easy way to get in some walking while trying to find your way out. Navigating through the maze requires some focus and strategy, and before you know it, you’ve walked quite a bit. Corn mazes are especially great if you have kids, as they’ll be entertained for hours, and you’ll all get some fresh air and exercise.
6. Enjoy a Simple Nature Walk
You don’t always have to push yourself with intense hikes or long bike rides. A peaceful nature walk can be just as fulfilling. Wander through a park, along a river, or even in your own neighborhood, enjoying the changing scenery. It’s a chance to slow down, breathe in the cool air, and let your mind relax. Even just 30 minutes of walking can boost your mood and help you stay active without any pressure.
7. Join a Fall 5K or Fun Run
Fall is full of fun runs and themed 5Ks, from turkey trots to Halloween races. You don’t need to be a serious runner to participate—many of these events are walker-friendly, and the focus is often on having fun. The festive atmosphere, combined with the cool fall air, makes running or walking in these events feel more like a celebration than a workout. Plus, crossing the finish line with a group of friends always feels good.
8. Paddle Away in a Kayak or Canoe
Just because summer’s over doesn’t mean you have to avoid the water. Fall is a stunning time to kayak or canoe, especially on quiet lakes surrounded by colorful trees. The water tends to be calmer, and the crowds are gone, making it a peaceful and scenic way to exercise. Paddling works your arms and core, but it’s also incredibly relaxing. Something about gliding through still waters with fall leaves all around is just unbeatable.
Fall Season at the Riverhouse.
9. Do Some Yard Work
Yard work might not sound exciting, but it’s a great way to stay active in the fall. Trimming bushes, planting bulbs for spring, or cleaning up leaves all require physical effort and help keep your yard looking tidy. You’re bending, lifting, and moving around without even realizing you’re getting a workout. It’s productive, gets you outdoors, and gives you a little extra exercise while making your space look great.
10. Host a Backyard Sports Game
Gather some friends or family and organize a casual game of touch football, soccer, or even frisbee in the backyard. Fall weekends are perfect for this—the weather is cool, and the atmosphere is relaxed. You don’t have to be competitive to have fun, and running around with loved ones is a fantastic way to stay active without it feeling like work. It’s also the perfect excuse to end the day with a cozy bonfire and some s’mores.
Our Backyard in the Fall
Final Thoughts
Fall is one of the best times of year to get outside and be active; if you are still looking for hiking gear, check out my favorite gear from Amazon Prime. The weather is cool, the scenery is breathtaking, and there are endless ways to enjoy the season without feeling like you’re forcing yourself to exercise. Whether hiking through a forest, paddling on a quiet lake, or even just raking leaves in your yard, staying active during fall can be simple, fun, and incredibly rewarding. So throw on a sweater, grab some friends or family, and get outside—you’ll be glad you did. Grab the Wisconsin State Park Scratch Off Poster for Hiking Inspiration.
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