New Year’s Resolutions for the Outdoors That Actually Matter

The new year is a time for reflection, growth, and fresh goals. For outdoor enthusiasts, it’s the perfect opportunity to deepen your connection with nature, hone your skills, and make a positive impact. Forget fleeting resolutions like “get fit” or “spend more time outside” — here are six actionable resolutions to inspire a meaningful year outdoors.

1. Leave No Trace, Every Time

We’ve all heard the Leave No Trace (LNT) principles, but it’s time to fully commit. Resolve to:

• Every time you go on a hike, bring a trash bag and pack out at least five pieces of trash, even if it’s not yours.
• Buy a fire pan and bring it with you on all overnight trips to reduce fire impacts. 
• Never stray from an existing hiking trail, even if it is tempting! 

Take it further by sharing LNT practices with friends and family. Your commitment ensures future generations can enjoy the same pristine environments.

2. Cut Down on Single-Use items 

Resolve to reduce your reliance on single-use plastics in your outdoor adventures. This includes:

• Pledging to drink only from reusable containers for a year, this cuts down on packaging and cans for sodas, coffee, and many other single use items. 
• Don’t purchase items packaged in plastic. When going out to eat, purchase whole foods, or meals made for you, and avoid all items packaged in plastic. 

By making small changes, you can significantly reduce waste and protect the ecosystems you love.

3. Volunteer for Outdoor Causes

Give back to the places you love by volunteering. Opportunities abound, from trail maintenance and clean-ups to citizen science projects.

• Dedicate one weekend a season to joining a trail clean-up or habitat restoration event.
• Sign up for a wildlife monitoring program and spend a day contributing to data collection.
• Help maintain local trails by joining a local trail crew (we might recommend Access Fund!) clearing debris, fixing erosion, or installing markers.

Volunteering not only helps the environment but also connects you with like-minded outdoor enthusiasts.

4. Reduce Your Carbon Footprint

The way we enjoy nature can impact it. Commit to sustainable outdoor practices, such as:

• Commit to buying nothing (and we mean nothing) new this year, see if you can go an entire year by only shopping at second hand stores. 
• Don’t leave your state for an entire year. Plan a year of adventures close to home to reduce travel emissions while still exploring new places. You might be surprised to find hidden gems in your backyard! 

By being mindful of your carbon footprint, you contribute to preserving the wild spaces you love.

5. Support Local Conservation Efforts

Commit to actively supporting local conservation initiatives. This could include:

• Pledge to donate a small percentage of your paycheck each month to local conservation efforts. Some companies will allow you to do this automatically!
• Commit to attending one community-led event each month in 2025 such as tree planting drives or beach clean-ups.

Your involvement ensures that local ecosystems remain healthy and thriving for years to come.

6. Be an Outdoor Mentor

Pay it forward by introducing someone new to the outdoors. Invite a friend, family member, or coworker who may not have much experience but is curious to join you on an adventure.

• Organize a beginner-friendly outing and teach them the basics of Leave No Trace principles.
• Help them choose affordable, essential gear to get started without feeling overwhelmed.
• Encourage them to set small outdoor goals and celebrate their progress.

Mentorship not only enriches their lives but also strengthens the outdoor community.

Final Thoughts

Resolutions don’t have to be lofty or abstract to make a difference. By committing to these actionable goals, you’ll enhance your outdoor experiences and make a positive impact on the environment and those around you. Here’s to a new year full of adventure, stewardship, and growth!

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All photo credit: Kaya Lindsay