Parks and Trails

Regular physical activity has important health benefits. Adults are encouraged to get at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity most days of the week, and children are encouraged to get at least 60 minutes of physical activity most days of the week, preferably daily. America's beautiful parks and trails are one place to help people be physically active. Conveniently located all across the country, parks and trails are low-cost and free venues where people of all ages can participate in a variety of recreational activities. Parks and nature have health potential for improving and maintaining physical, mental and social components of health.

Where to Go

Did you know that there are over 500 million acres of parks and outdoors spaces, so find out what is near you! The "National Park Service" provides a web tool that let's you locate a national park or a scenic and historic trail near by.

What to Do

Parks and trails provide the open spaces that inspire all kinds of healthy, outdoor physical activity. Use your imagination and think of all the fun you can have with friends, family and pets while being active outdoors. Do you have an adventurous spirit? Try something action packed, like river rafting or rock climbing.

Remember how much fun playing outside is, and bring younger loved-ones along so they can discover it for themselves! There are many outdoor education groups and physical activity that children and adolescents can choose. For example, you can play tag, jump rope, swim or go on a nature walk. You can do two types of activity for at least 30 minutes, or you do a combination of different physical activity into smaller, 10- to 15-minute segments, as long as it is adds up to at least one hour a day for children.

Of course there are many opportunities such as canoeing, mountain biking or hiking, but have you ever considered volunteering to maintain trails, lead a hike, a bird watch group or a nature walk? Learn how to become actively involved in nature and your community.

• Getting Involved with the National Park Service

• Volunteer and Youth Development

Being Responsible

Being active outdoors is beneficial for your physical and mental health, so help preserve it for future generations. Learn how to be responsible when you are outdoors, The Center for Responsible Outdoor Activities and Recreation (ROAR)*.

Additional Resources

Many organizations are dedicated to keeping American parks and trails clean and safe so you can enjoy them and get active. For more information about America's parks and trials:

• CDC Trails for Health
• Bureau of Land Management
• National Parks Service
• USDA Forest Service
• US Fish and Wildlife Service
• American Hiking Society*
• National Environmental Education Foundation*