In an age where smartphones, streaming platforms, and gaming consoles compete for our attention at every turn, many families are making a conscious decision to unplug. Rather than spending weekends in front of screens, more households across the United States are choosing to spend their time outdoors, engaging in activities that promote physical health, togetherness, and a deeper connection with nature.
The shift isn’t just about avoiding digital overload—it’s about rediscovering the joy of movement, exploration, and bonding without the constant hum of technology. Whether it’s hiking, camping, or heading out for a family bike ride, active weekends are becoming a popular antidote to the sedentary habits that often dominate our day-to-day lives.
One major enabler of this trend is better access to gear and transportation solutions that make outdoor adventures easier to plan and execute. For example, families who enjoy cycling are investing in vertical bike racks to transport multiple bikes efficiently. These hitch-mounted racks save valuable vehicle space and allow families to bring their bikes along on weekend trips without the usual logistical headaches. As a result, getting out of the house and onto a scenic trail has never been more convenient.
The Screen Time Dilemma
The average American child spends more than seven hours a day in front of a screen. While not all screen time is inherently negative—some of it supports learning and creativity—the cumulative effect of prolonged exposure can lead to issues like reduced physical activity, sleep disturbances, and social isolation.
Parents are increasingly concerned about the long-term impact of excessive screen use on their children’s health and development. It’s not just about physical well-being, either; families are looking for ways to build stronger relationships, reduce stress, and create lasting memories together.
Active weekends offer a simple, effective solution to these challenges. They shift the focus from passive consumption to active participation—something that benefits everyone, regardless of age.
Benefits of Active Family Time
1. Physical Health
Staying active reduces the risk of obesity, boosts cardiovascular health, and improves coordination and balance—especially in children who are still developing physically. Regular weekend activities like hiking, biking, or swimming help establish healthy habits that can last a lifetime.
2. Mental Well-Being
Time outdoors has been shown to reduce stress, anxiety, and symptoms of depression. Being in nature encourages mindfulness, improves mood, and helps people reset mentally after a busy work or school week.
3. Stronger Family Bonds
Spending time together without digital distractions strengthens communication and creates a space for shared experiences. Whether it’s cooking a meal at a campsite or finishing a long bike ride together, these moments foster a sense of teamwork and connection.
4. Skill Building and Confidence
Outdoor activities help children (and adults) develop important life skills. Navigation, problem-solving, resilience, and cooperation are all naturally reinforced when families take on physical challenges or explore unfamiliar terrain together.
Popular Weekend Activities for Active Families
Cycling
From neighborhood rides to scenic rail trails, biking is one of the most accessible and family-friendly outdoor activities. It’s low-impact, enjoyable for a wide range of fitness levels, and scalable based on the ages and skills of family members.
More families are planning weekend trips around cycling destinations, and with the right gear, it’s easy to bring bikes along. A good set of helmets, a bike repair kit, and a hitch-mounted bike rack make logistics straightforward.
Hiking and Nature Walks
Whether it’s a quick walk-through a nearby park or a full-day hike in a national forest, hiking offers families a chance to explore nature and unplug. Trails can be adapted to all skill levels, and many include educational opportunities like birdwatching, plant identification, or geology.
Camping
Camping is a full-immersion experience that removes the usual distractions of home life. It encourages creativity, teamwork, and adaptability, especially when cooking over a fire or setting up a tent. Even a single night out under the stars can have a big impact.
Paddling and Water Activities
Kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding are great for summer weekends. These activities engage different muscle groups and help improve balance and coordination. They also offer a peaceful, scenic environment that fosters relaxation and reflection.
Snow-Based Adventures
In colder months, families are turning to skiing, snowshoeing, and sledding as alternatives to indoor entertainment. Many communities offer accessible winter trails and gear rental programs to make participation easier.
How to Make Active Weekends a Habit
Building new routines doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a few small changes, families can gradually shift their weekend habits toward more active and fulfilling pursuits.
1. Start Small
Not every outing needs to be a major expedition. Start with short local walks, bike rides to the park, or backyard games. The key is consistency and showing kids that fun can happen away from screens.
2. Plan Ahead
Spontaneity is great, but a little planning goes a long way. Check the weather, pack snacks, and make sure gear is ready to go. Creating a basic checklist for weekend trips can reduce stress and make prep a family affair.
3. Let Everyone Choose Activities
Rotate who picks the weekend activity to keep things fresh and inclusive. Giving kids input increases their enthusiasm and engagement.
4. Create Tech-Free Zones
Set expectations in advance about screen use during active weekends. Keep devices out of sight to encourage full participation and engagement with each other and the environment.
5. Celebrate the Wins
Acknowledge accomplishments and reflect on the experience after each outing. Whether it’s finishing a hike or seeing a new kind of bird, celebrating the small moments helps reinforce positive feelings about active time.
Investing in the Right Tools
Having the right equipment can make outdoor time more enjoyable and accessible. Good footwear, weather-appropriate clothing, hydration packs, and sun protection are staples.
For families who enjoy cycling, a reliable vehicle-mounted bike rack is a game changer. As mentioned earlier, vertical bike racks are ideal for transporting multiple bikes safely and efficiently. They free up trunk space, reduce the risk of bike damage, and make it much easier to hit your favorite trail or bike path with the whole crew.
Other useful additions include:
- A basic first aid kit
- Maps or trail apps
- Picnic supplies
- Camping gear (if applicable)
Making Memories, Not Screen Time
Active weekends aren’t about cutting screens out entirely—they’re about creating balance. By choosing to spend just a portion of the weekend outside, moving, and connecting as a family, households are seeing real benefits to their physical and mental health.
In a world that moves fast and demands constant digital engagement, stepping away—even briefly—can make a huge difference. It’s a chance to reconnect with your family, your environment, and yourself.
So next weekend, trade the remote for a pair of sneakers. Load up the bikes, pack a picnic, and head out to explore. You don’t need to go far to find something meaningful—just outside the door is a world waiting to be rediscovered together.