Valentine's Day is almost here! Don't worry, the outdoors has some gifts for you and your loved one.
Valentine's Day is fast approaching, and you still don't have any clue where to take that special someone? Don't worry, if you want to spend it in the most special place of all (the great outdoors), we have got you covered.
Whether you live in warm or cold climates, we have a few Valentine's Day date ideas for lovers who love outdoor adventures.
Warm Weather
Picnic
Go to a nice park or wooded area find a clearing, lay out a blanket and have a nice romantic meal. Don't forget some nice tunes to set the mood. The best thing about the picnic date is that it can be tacked on to pretty much any other outdoor date.
Hiking date
For a hiking date you want to find a trail with breathtaking views. Look for prominent land features like mountains or cliffs that overlook beautiful landscapes. Rivers and streams are also nice, and if you're lucky maybe even a waterfall. Pick the best one and proceed with the picnic date.
Fishing date
There are a few ways to work out the fishing date. The first is to find a nice secluded beach, riverbank, or fishing hole. Put your lines in the water, then set out your picnic and catch fish at the same time.
Other options involve getting out on the water. If you have a boat, you can take it out and find that good spot that can only be reached by boat. Hit the shore after a while and break out the blanket and enjoy your private picnic.
The same can be done with a scenic kayak or canoe trip, with or without the fishing.
Cold Weather
Skiing
Head to the hills and spend the day on the slopes. Maybe throw some snowballs, or enjoy a lift or gondola ride if you aren't avid skiers. You can always enjoy a nice cozy meal by the fire back at the lodge.
If you're up for it, head back out and do some snow tubing to finish your date strong.
Skating
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Ice skating is always nice; if you can get to an outdoor rink or a frozen pond it's even better. If you are using a frozen pond, it's very important to check the ice beforehand to make sure it's thick enough. Nothing will bring your date down faster than falling through the ice.
The second most important thing to remember when skating outdoors is to bring your own thermos of hot chocolate to keep warm. Your date will thank you.
Sleigh Ride
Hop in a sleigh, cuddle up under a blanket, and enjoy a scenic tour of the countryside (or city streets). Sure it's cold outside, but who couldn't use another excuse to snuggle a little closer together. Remember, a sleigh ride is the perfect chance to try the inconspicuous stretch/put your arm around your date move.
Pro Tips
1. For picnics, keep your food simple. Pack quartered sandwiches, cheese and crackers, and/or small or cut fruit. Soft cheeses or dips can be stored in small reusable containers. Think finger foods that don't require forks.
2. A romantic picnic is no place for cheap beer. Pick up some wine that will compliment your food choices. Don't be afraid to ask the wine guy at the liquor store for pairing tips, or do a quick Web search.
3. Use cold packs instead of ice. Nothing is worse than a soggy sandwich, so be smart and keep your wine chilled and food fresh.
4. Bring some tunes. Nowadays, most of us have smartphones or .mp3 players and can set the mood for a romantic date quite nicely. If you don't have these at your disposal, make the extra effort to take a portable stereo out with a mix tape ready to rock some slow jams.
5. On a cold date, bring a spare coat. Expect the unexpected; you do not want to cut a date short because someone didn't bring a warm enough coat.
6. That being said, a coat has its limits. Have a warm plan B. Hand warmers, portable heaters, blankets, and other things will go a long way.
7. This is the ultimate pro tip: Pay one of your single friends to go out to your special spot before you and set up to keep your romantic rendezvous a surprise. They have nothing else to do, right?
Final Tip
Get going! You don't have much time left to set up the perfect outdoor Valentine's Day date for you and your significant other.
Good luck, and don't forget the box of chocolates and flowers!
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