There’s something about getting outside. Whether it’s on a new body of water, on top of a bike, or hanging from a cliff wall — days spent outside engaged in some type of physical activity are often regret-free. Here is a closer look at some fun, unusual and frequently adventurous activities you can engage in this summer in Connecticut.
By Sea/Water
It’s easy to drive along the Housatonic River without really seeing it, says Jennifer Clarke owner of Clark Outdoors, which rents kayaks, canoes and rafts on the river. “You fly by everything, and you notice the river, but you don’t really notice it,” she says. “Then when you get out on it, you get to see the area from a whole different vantage point. There are tons of birds out there — sometimes we see eagles. If you have kids, you can pull over anywhere that’s not private property and they can play in the water.”
Clark Outdoors offers people the chance to be dropped off and picked up on various parts of the river. For beginners, Clarke recommends the shorter West Cornwall Covered Bridge section of the river, which includes easy class 1 and 2 whitewater and lets visitors pass under the historic covered bridge. Participants need to know how to swim, but children are welcome, Clarke says. (860-672-6365, clarkeoutdoors.com)
For a calmer experience on the water, you can try paddle boarding or beach yoga. One of many companies in the state that offer the experience is Scoot & Paddle, which rents kayaks, paddle boards, and other watercraft in Milford and Derby and hosts special events including yoga classes. If you rent from the Milford location, you’ll be launched into Long Island Sound at one of its widest points which offers stunning vistas and true ocean vibes. (Milford: 203-713-8282, Derby: 475-342-1878, scootandpaddle.com)
If you like the idea of being on the water but want something that involves more camaraderie and teamwork, consider participating in a team row at GMS Rowing in New Milford. GMS takes new rowers out on Lake Lillinonah and the Housatonic River in beginner row classes for kids and adults as well as on free “learn to row” days throughout the year.
“It’s something different that many people have never tried before and gives you an opportunity to be on the water and meet new people,” says Linda Leaden, development coach at GMS Rowing. She adds the oldest person she coaches is 78, and adults and kids are constantly discovering the sport. “We have a middle school and high school learn-to-row programs. Some kids are interested in trying something different than the typical sports at school, this gives them an opportunity to be part of a team but excel as an individual.”
(860-350-4004, gmsrow.com)
Skillful motorcyclist jumping on dirt road on stunt bike in the forest.By Land
For those who prefer not to get their feet wet, there are plenty of options for unusual summer competition and fun.
Disc Golf can be a great way to enjoy the outdoors and meet new people in a laidback, low-pressure environment, says Todd Springer, who is affiliated with the Fairfield County Disc Club, which organizes disc golf events in Connecticut. “Friends like to say it’s kind of hiking while following a piece of plastic around in the woods, it kind of tricks you into exercising,” says Springer.
Based on traditional golf, disc golf replaces balls with discs and traditional golf holes with metal baskets that you aim your disc toward. Disc golf courses can be found at Sherwood Island State Park in Westport, Cranbury Park in Norwalk, and Veterans Memorial Park in Bridgeport. The events organized by the Fairfield County Disc Club are friendly and open to newcomers, most of the time no registration is necessary, Springer says. (discgolfscene.com/clubs/Fairfield_County_Disc_Club)
If you’re looking for something more fast-paced, you might try BMX biking at Bethel Supercross BMX. This winding and jump-filled dirt race rack hosts open rides as well as more formal races during the fall. (203-744-7962, bethelbmx.com)
For something that might be more daring, Connecticut has some popular outdoor climbing areas including Ragged Mountain in Southington and Berlin. If you’re new to the sport of climbing, however, you want to make safety your highest priority by working with a certified climbing guide. Newcomers can ease into the sport by trying out a climb in a more controlled environment at a gym, says Sam Bayers, youth programs manager and head coach at Rock Climb Fairfield, a climbing gym in Fairfield. Rock Climb Fairfield also offers guided outdoor sessions for those who are ready.
Kaila Collins, general manager of Rock Climb Fairfield, says the sport is more accessible to people of all ages and physical abilities than many realize. “Anyone can rock, climb. We have an adaptive climbing program here,” she says. She adds, you don’t have to be a pullup champion to enjoy the sport. “We see people who are superstar bodybuilders come in, and we see people that have never worked out a day in their life, and they’re still able to rock climb.” (203-416-5500, rockclimbfairfield.com)
