Things To Do In Spring This Weekend: Your Guide To Smart, Safe Outings

ByEric James Updated on

That first warm breeze hits, the sun feels different, and a familiar urge takes hold. After a long winter indoors, the call of the wild is undeniable. You’re ready to get out, but maybe you’re feeling a little rusty. Where do you even start when the trails are muddy and the weather can turn on a dime?

You’re not alone in feeling that mix of excitement and uncertainty. That’s why we’ve built this complete guide. We promise to give you practical, exciting, and safe ideas for things to do in spring this weekend, designed for everyone from first-time hikers to seasoned vanlifers looking to shake off the winter chill.

In this guide, you’ll discover how to choose the perfect low-impact day hike, get a step-by-step plan for your first spring campout, learn the basics of safe foraging, and get our best tips for spotting wildlife. Let’s get you outdoors, confidently and safely.

Embrace the Thaw: Low-Impact Day Hikes and Trail Exploration

Spring hiking is a magical experience filled with budding trees and rushing streams. But it also comes with unique challenges, namely mud and unpredictable conditions. The key is to choose your adventure wisely.

Choosing the Right Spring Trail

Not all trails are created equal in the spring. Look for trails with a southern exposure, as they get more sun and tend to dry out faster. Lower elevation trails are also a safer bet, as higher elevations can still hold significant snow and ice.

Use resources like the AllTrails or Gaia GPS apps to read recent trail reports from other hikers. They’ll give you the real-time scoop on mud, snow, and any downed trees. This is one of the most important things to do in spring this weekend tips: always know the conditions before you go.

Essential Gear for a Muddy Hike

The right gear makes a world of difference. Your comfort and safety depend on it.

  • Waterproof Hiking Boots: This is non-negotiable. Look for boots with a membrane like GORE-TEX to keep your feet dry and comfortable. Good traction is also crucial for slippery sections.
  • Trekking Poles: A pair of trekking poles, like the Black Diamond Trail Ergo Cork, provides extra stability on slick mud and helps you test the depth of puddles before you step.
  • Gaiters: These simple wraps go over the top of your boots and the bottom of your pants to keep mud, water, and debris out. They are a game-changer for sloppy conditions.
  • A “Sit-Pad”: A small, closed-cell foam pad gives you a dry, insulated place to sit for a break without getting your pants soaked.

Trail Etiquette for a New Season

Spring trails are fragile. To protect them, walk through the mud, not around it. Widening the trail by going around muddy spots causes serious erosion and damages the surrounding vegetation. This is a core tenet of sustainable things to do in spring this weekend.

Remember that you’re sharing the trail. Yield to uphill hikers, keep your voice down to respect wildlife and other visitors, and always pack out everything you pack in.

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Your First Spring Campout: A Step-by-Step Weekend Guide

Ready to spend a night under the stars? Spring camping is incredibly rewarding, offering solitude you won’t find in the busy summer months. But it requires more preparation. This things to do in spring this weekend guide will walk you through the essentials.

Selecting a Dry and Safe Campsite

When you arrive, look for high ground. Avoid low-lying areas or depressions where cold air and water will pool overnight. Look up for “widowmakers”—dead branches or trees that could fall in high winds.

Position your tent entrance away from the prevailing wind. If possible, find a spot with natural windbreaks like a cluster of trees or a large boulder. Before you pitch, clear the ground of any small rocks or sticks that could puncture your tent floor.

Spring Camping Gear Checklist

Cold and damp are your biggest enemies. Your gear list should reflect that.

  1. A Solid Tent: A three-season tent with a full-coverage rainfly is a must. We recommend models like the MSR Hubba Hubba NX for its excellent weather protection.
  2. A Warm Sleeping System: Don’t underestimate chilly nights. Use a sleeping bag rated at least 10-15 degrees colder than the lowest expected temperature. A sleeping pad with a high R-value (a measure of insulation; aim for 4.0 or higher) like the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite is just as important to insulate you from the cold ground.
  3. Waterproof Everything: Pack your clothes and sleeping bag inside waterproof stuff sacks or dry bags, even if they are inside your backpack. A wet sleeping bag is a serious safety issue.
  4. Camp Stove and Hot Drinks: A reliable stove like the MSR PocketRocket 2 lets you make hot meals and drinks, which is a huge morale and warmth booster. Pack coffee, tea, or hot cocoa.

Staying Warm and Dry When It’s Damp

The secret to staying warm is staying dry. Change out of sweaty hiking clothes as soon as you get to camp. Put on a dry set of clothes specifically for sleeping—never sleep in the clothes you hiked in.

A Merino wool base layer is your best friend. It wicks moisture away from your skin and insulates even when damp. Avoid cotton at all costs, as it loses all insulating properties when wet.

Forage and Feast: Discovering Wild Edibles in Your Backyard

Spring is a fantastic time to learn about the edible plants growing all around you. It connects you to the land in a profound way and is one of the most rewarding eco-friendly things to do in spring this weekend.

Safety First: The Golden Rules of Foraging

This is not an activity to jump into lightly. The consequences of a mistake can be severe. Follow these rules without exception.

  • 100% Certain Identification: Never, ever eat a wild plant unless you are absolutely, unequivocally certain of its identity. Use multiple reliable field guides and cross-reference. When in doubt, throw it out.
  • Know the Land: Be aware of your location. Avoid foraging near busy roads (due to exhaust fumes) or in areas that may have been sprayed with pesticides or herbicides.
  • Harvest Sustainably: Follow the “1/10th rule” as a general guideline—never take more than 10% of the plants in any given patch. This ensures the plant community remains healthy for years to come.
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Easy-to-Identify Spring Edibles for Beginners

Start with a few “foolproof” plants that have no dangerous look-alikes in your region.

  • Dandelions: The entire plant is edible. The young leaves are great in salads, the flowers can be made into wine or fritters, and the root can be roasted as a coffee substitute.
  • Stinging Nettle: Once cooked, the sting is neutralized, leaving you with a delicious green that tastes like spinach and is packed with nutrients. Always wear gloves when harvesting.
  • Wild Violets: Both the leaves and flowers are edible and high in Vitamin C. They make a beautiful and tasty addition to spring salads.

Mastering the Season: Essential Tips for All Spring Adventures

No matter what activity you choose, a few core principles will ensure your weekend is safe and enjoyable. This section covers the things to do in spring this weekend best practices for any outdoor plan.

The Art of Layering for Unpredictable Weather

Spring weather is famously fickle. The key to comfort is a smart layering system that you can adjust on the fly.

  1. Base Layer: A moisture-wicking layer (Merino wool or synthetic) against your skin.
  2. Mid Layer: An insulating layer, like a fleece jacket or a puffy vest, to trap body heat.
  3. Outer Layer (Shell): A waterproof and windproof jacket, like an Arc’teryx Beta AR, to protect you from the elements.

Bring all three layers, even if the morning looks sunny. You can always take a layer off, but you can’t put on a layer you didn’t bring.

Common Problems with Things to Do in Spring This Weekend (and How to Solve Them)

Anticipating challenges is the mark of a smart adventurer. Here are some common problems you might face:

  • Problem: Getting Soaked by an Unexpected Shower.
    • Solution: Always pack a rain jacket and rain pants. Keep electronics in a dry bag. A small, packable tarp can also create a quick emergency shelter.
  • Problem: Losing the Trail Under Lingering Snow Patches.
    • Solution: Carry a map and compass and know how to use them. A GPS device or phone app (with downloaded maps) is a great backup, but don’t rely on it solely. If you lose the trail, stop, stay calm, and retrace your steps to the last known point.
  • Problem: Dealing with Ticks.
    • Solution: Treat your outer clothing with permethrin before your trip. Wear light-colored clothing to spot ticks easily. Do a thorough tick check on yourself, your kids, and your pets after every outing.

Frequently Asked Questions About Things to Do in Spring This Weekend

What’s the best way to deal with ticks and insects in spring?

The best defense is a multi-layered approach. Treat your clothing and gear with permethrin. Use an EPA-approved insect repellent like DEET or picaridin on exposed skin. After your trip, immediately do a full-body check, paying close attention to your hairline, armpits, and behind your knees. Tumble-dry your clothes on high heat for 10-15 minutes to kill any ticks that may have hitched a ride.

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How do I check trail conditions before I go?

Start by checking the official website for the park or forest you plan to visit; they often post alerts and conditions. Next, use apps like AllTrails or Gaia GPS to read the most recent user-submitted trip reports. Finally, don’t hesitate to call the local ranger station. Rangers have the most up-to-date, on-the-ground information and are happy to help you plan a safe trip.

What are some good spring activities for families with kids?

Spring is perfect for family adventures! Plan a scavenger hunt on a local nature trail, focusing on finding things like new buds, specific types of moss, or animal tracks in the mud. A visit to a local farm to see baby animals is always a hit. You can also start a small container garden at home, teaching kids about where their food comes from. Keep hikes short, bring lots of fun snacks, and focus on the journey, not the destination.

Is it safe to drink from streams and rivers in the spring?

No, it is never safe to drink untreated water from natural sources, especially in the spring. Runoff from melting snow can carry bacteria, viruses, and agricultural contaminants. Always filter or purify your water. A lightweight and reliable filter like the Sawyer Squeeze or purification tablets are essential pieces of gear for any backcountry trip.

Spring is a season of renewal, and there’s no better way to celebrate it than by getting outside. By planning ahead, packing smart, and respecting the wild places you explore, you can make this weekend the start of an incredible season of adventure.

Now you have the ideas and the knowledge. The only thing left to do is pick one, tell someone your plan, and get out there. Stay safe, be smart, and enjoy the awakening of the wild.

Eric James
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