Valentine’s Day is approaching, so here’s a list of nature-filled activities you can do to celebrate all the love in your life. Whether you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day with your love, Palentine’s Day with a friend, Galentine’s Day with your gal pals, (or just really like boxes of chocolate) we have some fun ideas that you will be sure to love this February.
1. Have a picnic in nature
Nothing brings people together like food! If you’re looking for a way to get some sunshine and celebrate the love you have with someone, what better way to do it than by sharing a meal? Visit one of the many beautiful, shaded parks and open spaces with picnic areas in Santa Clara Valley and enjoy some tasty snacks and quality time with your loved one.
2. Go for a hike
Shared experiences make for great bonding time, and going on a hike is a great way to enjoy each other’s company and get to know one another. We know it can be intimidating letting someone see that authentic, "hold-on-I-need-to-catch-my-breath" side of you, but just remember -- if they don’t love you when you’re winded climbing a hill, then they don’t deserve you at ground level – just saying.
3. Take a Leisurely bike ride
And if you’re interested in something more relaxed – try visiting one of the best paved trails in Santa Clara County, like Martial Cottle Park or the Llagas Creek Loop. Grab those safety helmets (because safety first!), get out there, and enjoy some time in nature. And when the wind hits you, embrace that feeling of being in a RomCom movie. It’s a good one.
4. Take your dog for a walk
Love has no limits, so why should Valentine’s Day? Dogs deserve love too! Use this holiday to appreciate Human’s Best Friend and take Fido out to get some sunshine. While dogs are not allowed on Authority managed preserves, there are plenty of dog-friendly parks and trails throughout South Bay that you and your pup will be sure to love. Just pack some extra water, maybe a few treats if he is a good boy (which we all know he is), and enjoy your time together.
5. Cook a farm-to-table meal
If you’re planning to cook at home for Valentine’s Day, turn it into a farm to table adventure! Pick your recipe (or make your own), and head to your nearest farmers market for some seasonal produce grown by local farmers. There’s no better way to get some fresh air while preparing a delicious and sustainably sourced meal that was grown and cooked with love.
6. Enjoy a solo sunset stroll
Valentine's Day is just as much about self-love as it is about loving others!
Use this day as an opportunity to enjoy some well-deserved self-love and embark on a relaxing sunset stroll. Whether you’re close to greenspace or in a city, a short walk can be a fantastic way we can show ourselves love. Enjoy the colorful sky, wave to your neighbors, love yourself for taking some time away to appreciate the world. Because the world loves you, too.
...And wherever your outdoor Valentine's adventure takes you, please remember to stay safe, and be kind by sharing the trail with others.
