12 Outdoor Date Ideas for Valentine's Day or Any Day

There's no better way to spend time with your favorite person than by experiencing something new in the great outdoors. Check out these fifteen outdoor date ideas for couples that can help you build a stronger relationship while taking in the sights and sounds of nature.

1. Rent a tandem kayak or paddleboat to explore a nearby pond or lake. Enjoy a few hours of serenity on the water with the person you love.
2. Sip some hot chocolate and reconnect with each other while sitting next to the soft glow of a campfire.
3. Fun outdoor activities for couples can include participation in a benefit 5K walk or run to support a cause you both care about.
4. Plan an ice fishing trip together. When considering winter activities for couples, don't forget that you can cozy up in a shelter or shanty while you wait for the fish to bite -- just remember that you will both need to buy your license online before your date.
5. Take a romantic snowy hike at nearby state or national park. Great outdoor date ideas for winter can certainly include a scenic stroll at a state or national park -- just double check the park's website to make sure that it's open during the wintertime.
6. Plan a trip to a warm destination where you can rent a boat and take a sunset cruise.
7. Take a fly casting class together. When it comes to outdoor dates and learning new skills, you can book a professional fly casting instructor to practice the basics or refine your existing techniques.
8. Head off on a bike ride together. If you don't have bikes, find a cycle shop that will rent you two bikes for the afternoon.
9. Plan a picnic lunch on the beach. Pack up your favorite sandwiches and a blanket; then boat or drive to a local beach where you eat al fresco on the beach while watching the waves.
10. Sign up for a wilderness photography class together. Dating for outdoor enthusiasts can be tons of fun when you bond over newly acquired skills.
11. Try snowshoeing together. Places like Rocky Mountain National Park or Yellowstone National Park are ideal. Look for destinations that have plenty of snow and miles of hiking trails that are perfect for winter exploration.
12. Take a horse-drawn carriage ride. If you live near a large city, this is one of the best outdoor dates you can plan for picturesque views and plenty of romance.

Whichever of these outdoor date ideas you decide to try, keep in mind that the best experiences will always be those that are creative, light-hearted, and fun.