What is Vitamin N?

Posted on July 27th, 2016

geocaching-roanoke

Richard Louv has been advocating for children to spend more time outside for more than a decade. This year, he released a guidebook for the whole family to lead lives rich in nature, or “Vitamin N.” Packed full of inspirational advice and accessible ideas, Vitamin N is a worthwhile read for anyone looking to recharge in nature.

vitamin-nLucky for us, the Roanoke Region provides lots of family-friendly opportunities to get outside. Here are a few ideas to help you get started:

  1. Geocaching 
    If your kids are hooked on Pokemon GO, geocaching can provide a nature-oriented alternative that works a lot like the game. This activity engages the whole family in a real-life treasure hunt. Roanoke yields over 350 caches, promising no shortage of excitement.
  2. Disc golf
    Similar to traditional golf, but using flying discs instead of balls, disc golf is readily available in several parks around the area. Stir up some friendly competition and spend some time outside with the family!
  3. Take a hike
    A walk through the woods is a simple and beautiful way to connect with nature. There are options available in the region for hikers of all skill levels, each with a different experience and view.
  4. Visit a state park
    With several different state parks nearby, you can take your family and get outdoors in an area filled with things to do. From lakes to trails and everything in between, you’ll find plenty of Vitamin N.
  5. Go for a ride
    Biking is a great opportunity for exercise and to see scenery. Whether you’re looking for trails or a nice cruise on the Greenway system, a bike ride will rejuvenate your dose of nature.

For even more ideas, read Vitamin N. And make sure to shop with us using Amazon Smile; it doesn’t cost you a thing and Roanoke Outside gets a portion of all sales!

Guest post by Kate Jewusiak. Jewusiak is a summer intern for the Roanoke Regional Partnership. She is a mass communication student at the Burton Center for Arts and Technology and will be a senior at Hidden Valley High School in the fall.