Outside Guide: How to Set Realistic Outdoor Goals for the Year

A new year often brings big plans and fresh motivation to spend more time outside. While it’s easy to set ambitious outdoor goals, the key to long-term success is making them realistic, flexible, and meaningful. At Nevada Outdoor School, we believe outdoor goals should inspire curiosity and confidence, not pressure. Whether you’re new to outdoor activities or looking to build on existing skills, here’s how to set outdoor goals you can actually achieve this year.

Start Where You Are

Before setting goals, take an honest look at your current routine, experience level, and available time. How often do you realistically get outside during the week? What activities do you already enjoy? Starting from where you are helps prevent burnout and builds confidence as you progress.

Instead of aiming for daily adventures, consider goals like a weekly walk on a local trail or a monthly family outing. Small, consistent steps add up.

Focus on Experiences, Not Just Outcomes

Outdoor goals don’t have to be about distance, speed, or difficulty. Some of the most meaningful goals focus on experiences; trying a new trail, learning a new skill, or spending intentional time outside with family or friends.

Examples include:

• Exploring one new local outdoor space each month

• Learning basic navigation or outdoor cooking skills

• Spending uninterrupted outdoor time with your family once a week

Experience-based goals leave room for flexibility and enjoyment.

Make Goals Seasonal and Flexible

Outdoor opportunities change with the seasons, especially in Northern Nevada. Weather, daylight, and schedules all affect what’s possible. Break your goals into seasonal chunks rather than year-long expectations. Winter might focus on short hikes and observation, while summer allows for longer adventures.

Flexibility keeps outdoor time enjoyable and helps you adapt when plans change.

Build Goals Around Community

Outdoor goals are easier, and more fun, when shared. Look for ways to involve others, whether that’s attending a community hike, signing up for a class, or exploring with a friend. Community accountability and shared experiences can help you stay motivated throughout the year.

Participating in local programs, like those offered by Nevada Outdoor School, can also provide structure, learning opportunities, and encouragement as you work toward your goals.

Celebrate Progress, Not Perfection

Every step outside counts. Celebrate small wins, like showing up on a cold day, learning something new, or simply slowing down long enough to notice your surroundings. Progress isn’t always measurable, and that’s okay.

Outdoor goals should support your well-being, curiosity, and connection to the natural world, not add stress.

Make the Outdoors a Habit

The most successful outdoor goals are the ones that become part of everyday life. Keep gear accessible, plan simple outings, and choose activities that fit naturally into your routine. When outdoor time feels manageable, it becomes something you look forward to rather than something you have to schedule.

This year, set outdoor goals that meet you where you are and grow with you. With realistic expectations and a sense of curiosity, every season offers opportunities to learn, explore, and connect outside.