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Adventure Is For Lovers: 4 Outside Valentine's Day Dates

It's almost Valentine's Day, that holiday that celebrates everything coupledom.

By: Sara Sheehy + Save to a List

No matter where you fall on the spectrum of adoring or despising this day of love, I like to think of it as another excuse to get outside and spend some time with my favorite human.

Stuck on ideas for you and that special someone this year? We've got your back. Here are four ideas for skipping the fancy dinner reservations and getting outside this Valentine's Day.

Go Glamping

Photo by Under Canvas | The Ultimate Glamping Basecamp in Moab, Utah

There's nothing quite so romantic as a night under the stars, and glamping is one of those activities that you can convince even non-outdoorsy people to try. 

A comfy bed, heaters to keep you warm, and a campfire right outside your canvas tent flap? Yes, please.

Under Canvas has several glamping destinations in the United States, or you can search around for state parks and private properties near you that have yurts, glamping tents, or cabins.

Dinner for Two

Photo by Megan McDuffie7 Easy Recipes To Mix Up Your Camping Menu

Dinner outside, that is.

If it's warm enough where you live, pick a spot that it is scenic and sufficiently remote so that you'll enjoy some privacy. The meal doesn't have to be fancy — one of my favorite anniversary dinners with my husband was a cheese, cracker, and wine picnic on a mountainside in Idaho's Pioneer Mountains.

It can be fancy, though, if that's your thing. There are plenty of elegant dinners to make outdoors with limited cooking gear.

Explore Somewhere New

Photo by Tiffany NguyenHike to the Johnston Canyon Cave

Spend Valentine's Day exploring somewhere new, together. The Outbound Collective is a great place to find a new destination. Just type in your location, and we'll give you a list of hikes, paddles, camping, bikes, and everything in between, all provided by our adventurous community. 

Alternatively, you can bring your special someone to one of your favorite outdoor spots. Just be sure it's for real before you go...you don't want that spot to be tainted forever if you split up on February 15.

Plan a Trip

Photo by Lisa BaoCliff Jumping at Alan Davis

Nothing says, "I kinda like you," like planning a trip together. Pick up takeout, put on your favorite couple's playlist, and spend the night planning an epic journey together. Maybe it's a summer road trip to check out national parks, a weekend in Tucson, or a two-week trek in Peru.

All you softies out there might not think this a romantic enough experience for Valentine's Day, but I disagree. Planning a future trip together is exciting, especially if it's your first as a couple. 

No matter what you get up to with your love this Valentine's Day, enjoy the time spent outside, with your fave by your side.

Cover photo by Christin Healey | Hike to Bear Church Rock via Bootens Gap

We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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