Today, we’re overwhelmed with ways to stay entertained without ever having to step outside.

Streaming movies, playing video games, browsing limitless TV channels, and watching videos of cats provide endless amusement behind closed doors. However, staying inside day after day isn’t the healthiest way to live your life – there’s a whole world out there just demanding to be explored!

For anyone looking to see and do more, here are four eye-opening activities everyone should try at least once.

#1. Whitewater Rafting

Few pastimes provide adrenaline-pumping excitement while putting you at the mercy of nature’s awesome power.

Whitewater rafting is fast, frantic, invigorating, life-affirming fun. Needless to say, you should only go on your first rafting trips with experienced people to stay as safe as possible.

While there are many stunning whitewater rafting spots around the world, we have more than our fair share here in the USA. Check out the Green River, Salmon River, and Chattooga River for a taste of our finest waters.

#2. Surfing

Anyone who ever watched Point Break (the original, of course), Blue Crush, or even Surf’s Up will admit to feeling even a little tempted to try surfing, but how many of us actually do?

Well, quite a few actually – believe it or not, there are more than 2 million surfers across America. It’s easy to see why, too. We’re lucky to have a stunning variety of beaches to visit, offering some mind-blowing waves.

It’s natural to be intimidated by such a wild activity, yet surfing transforms lives – so much so fans tend to wonder how they coped before.

Don’t just grab a board and dive in – take lessons, prepare, and follow professional advice. When you’re ready, consider visiting Oahu’s Sunset Beach, California’s Trestles, and the famous Malibu Beach (of course).

#3. Mountain Climbing

As challenging, exhausting, and time-consuming as mountain climbing is, there’s nothing quite as rewarding as the view from the top.

Reaching a mountain’s peak, breathing the crisp air, and taking in the vista at your feet is an incredible experience everyone should enjoy at least once. Climbing a mountain is also a terrific way to build friendships and discover the joys of teamwork.

As a beginner, consider climbing Mt. Katahdin (in Maine’s Baxter State Park), Half Dome (in California’s Yosemite National Park), or Longs Peak (Colorado’s Rocky Mountain National Park). These may look tough at first glance, but they’re all prime challenges for novices.

Invest in top-quality mountaineering gear to maximize your own safety.

# 4. Skiing

Perhaps the least-extreme activity on this list, skiing is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors while having fun. Skiing’s also ideal for keeping fit, demanding a strong core, solid control of your own body, and fast reflexes.

You also get to enjoy some unforgettable views, breathe clean mountain air, and spend relaxing evenings in luxurious ski lodges.

Here in America, we’re lucky to have plenty of amazing ski resorts, most of which are accessible for beginners. Winter Park, Aspen, Vail, and Beaver Creek are all top choices for the novice.

Before you try any of these, be sure to invest in quality gear, including waterproof backpacks, safety equipment, and more.