Hiking at Torrey Pines, San Diego

(image provided by author)

Looking for something fun to do but on a tight budget? Check out a local park and go running, biking, or hiking. This spring break I flew to California, and while I wanted to have fun, I did not want to come back home with a scant bank account. The perfect solution was checking out nearby trails and going to the beach.

It’s easy to find organic things to do in California. After all, the state is lush with hills and its residents who don’t have to worry about being cooped up during cold, snowy months can spend that time being active outdoors. My personal favorite park is Torrey Pines in San Diego. Not only did I get some exercise from climbing the small mountain and skipping giddily to each trail, but I was also offered a picturesque view at each trail’s looking point.

One of the trials had beach access, and most of the trails looked out into the ocean. I even saw a pod of dolphins! The view was simply spectacular. And when there wasn’t an ocean view there was still enough surrounding activity to entertain the eye. There were many unique plants, animals scurrying across the path, and cool sandstone formations.

While an ocean view is not possible at any park in Michigan, there are still some neat places that can tantalize your outdoor craving. Kensington Metropark in Brighton, MI has an eight mile loop around a big lake. In the summer many people go paddle boating, biking, rollerblading, or lay out by the designated beach area. A waterslide was recently built too.

So if you are in need of some fresh air after this long winter and you want to be fiscally responsible, check out the natural resources around you. You might even realize that you can have just as much fun frolicking around outside as you would spending money on another form of entertainment.