What a nature walk is
A nature walk is an unhurried walk where the goal is noticing, not covering distance. People use several terms for it, including nature walk, nature ramble or forest bathing, which refers to slow, mindful time among trees. You do not need a remote trail. A park, greenway, schoolyard or backyard will do.
Spring is a rewarding season for it. Things change week by week, so the same path can look different every time you return.
What to look for
What you see depends heavily on where you live and how early or late spring is, so use these as prompts, not promises.
Plants and trees
- Buds swelling on branches, and the first leaves opening
- Early wildflowers on woodland floors or sunny edges
- Fresh green shoots coming up through last year’s leaves
- Blossoms on fruit and ornamental trees
- Moss and ferns, which can look especially vivid on damp days
Animals and insects
- Birds carrying nest material or singing from perches
- Bees and butterflies visiting early flowers on warmer days
- Worms on damp pavement after rain
- Frogs and their eggs in shallow ponds, in some regions; observe from a distance
- Squirrels and chipmunks becoming more active
Other signs
- Snowmelt, running streams and puddles
- Muddy trails and fresh tracks in soft ground
- Longer light in the evening
What to listen for
Close your eyes for a minute or two at a quiet spot and note what you hear.
- Birdsong. Many birds sing more in spring as they claim territory. A free app can help you identify songs, or you can just describe them.
- Frogs and toads. In some areas, choruses start on warm spring evenings near water.
- Wind and water. Streams are often louder from snowmelt and rain.
- Insects. Buzzing returns as the weather warms.
Nature walk with young children
For preschoolers, shorter and slower is better.
- Keep the walk to 20 or 30 minutes and let them lead.
- Give them a simple job, such as finding something green, something soft or something that moves.
- Use a paper bag or egg carton as a collecting container, only for items that are already on the ground and allowed to be collected.
- Stop to listen, smell and touch (safe things only).
- Ask open questions: what do you notice, what do you think made that sound?
- Bring a snack and a change of socks.
For a game-style version, adapt the ideas in our outdoor fall scavenger hunt with spring items.
Simple tools and a checklist
You need very little.
- A small notebook and pencil, or a phone for photos
- A magnifying glass for kids
- A basic field guide or an identification app
- Binoculars if you have them
A starter checklist might include: a bud, a bird singing, a flower, a puddle, a feather, something green, an insect and a sound you cannot identify.
Why walk in nature
Many people find that time outdoors helps them relax and feel better, and walking is a form of gentle physical activity. Research on the benefits of nature exposure is ongoing, and claims should be taken in moderation, but a calm walk is a low-risk way to try it. For children, it can be a way to build curiosity about plants and animals.
Spring conditions to plan for
- Mud. Wear waterproof or quick-drying shoes, and stay on the trail to avoid widening it.
- Changeable weather. Bring a rain layer and an extra layer.
- Ticks. In many regions, ticks become active in spring. Wear long pants, use repellent if you choose to, and check yourself and children afterward.
- Allergies. Pollen can be high on some days.
- Wildlife. Keep your distance from nests and young animals. If you find a seemingly abandoned baby animal, local wildlife agencies can advise.
FAQ
What are nature walks good for? They offer gentle exercise, time outdoors and a chance to notice seasonal change.
What is walking in nature called? Common terms include nature walk, hiking, rambling and forest bathing, depending on the style.
What are easy nature activities for preschoolers? Short walks, simple listening games, color hunts and collecting fallen items are good places to start.
Where can I go next? For more ways to play, see our outdoor spring games.