Outdoor and Active Thanksgiving Ideas

As Thanksgiving approaches, many families are seeking new ways to gather and celebrate beyond the dinner table. Outdoor and active Thanksgiving ideas don’t just promote health—they foster connection, help everyone appreciate the changing season, and create lasting memories. Whether your ideal day starts with a brisk fun run, a scenic hayride, or a relaxing fall foliage tour, there are countless ways to enjoy the holiday outdoors. Let these ideas inspire you to make this Thanksgiving your most memorable—and energetic—yet.

 Start Your Day with a Turkey Trot

Turkey Trots have become a staple of Thanksgiving in cities and small towns alike. These festive fun runs—ranging from 1-mile family walks to 10K races—welcome all ages and fitness levels. Many Turkey Trots support local charities, so you can join the crowd in costume, burn some pre-feast calories, and give back to the community.

Tips for Turkey Trots:

• Register early; popular events sell out weeks in advance.
• Dress in layers for cold November mornings, and consider fun Thanksgiving-themed attire.
• Take a group photo at the finish line to kick off your holiday album.

If you’re spending Thanksgiving near Zion National Park, look for local Turkey Trot events in neighboring towns or create a DIY family fun run along picturesque paths.

 Savor the Season with Hayrides

Nothing says fall like a hayride through golden fields or colorful orchards. Many farms and parks host hayrides during Thanksgiving week, offering a relaxing, nostalgic way to enjoy the outdoors. Some hayrides feature stops at pumpkin patches, s’mores stations, live music, or even visits with farm animals.

Why include a hayride in your Thanksgiving?

• Hayrides are perfect for multi-generational groups—kids, parents, and grandparents can all enjoy the slow, scenic pace.
• Many hayrides end at a fire pit for storytelling, hot cider, or marshmallow roasting.
• These outings provide plenty of fresh air and space for family photos in stunning autumn surroundings.

Look for hayrides at local farms, nature preserves, or county parks. Near Zion National Park, small town farms often offer fall rides with beautiful views of red rock country.

 Embrace Nature with Fall Foliage Tours

Thanksgiving is prime time for leaf peeping in much of the country. Fall foliage tours—whether by foot, bike, or scenic drive—immerse your family in the colors and crisp air that define late November.

Ideas for beautiful foliage experiences:

• Take a guided walking tour in a state or national park.
• Plan a scenic drive through backcountry byways or national forests; Zion’s dramatic canyons or Snow Canyon State Park make for stunning backdrops.
• Rent bikes or e-bikes for leisurely rides along rivers or wooded paths.

Don’t forget to pack a picnic and a thermos of hot cocoa. For cozy meals or overnight stays, consider some of the rental homes near Zion National Park—many feature fireplaces, decks, and easy access to outdoor adventures.

 Try These Bonus Outdoor Thanksgiving Activities

Thankfulness Walk: Take a family stroll before or after dinner, challenging everyone to spot five things in nature they’re thankful for. These wagons for baby and toddlers make it easy to keep little ones warm and cozy while being included.

• Fall Scavenger Hunt: Gather acorns, colorful leaves, or unique rocks on the trail and see who can collect the most items from your autumn checklist.
• Gratitude Tree: Create a tree of gratitude outdoors using branches, twine, and paper leaves for each family member’s message.

Regardless of the activity or activities you select, remember getting outside is good for your health.

 Make Thanksgiving Dinner an Outdoor Affair

Take your feast outside for a new spin on the holiday. Move tables and chairs to the backyard or a local park. Decorate with pumpkins, autumn leaves, and hay bales. Use warm blankets and lanterns for comfort and ambiance.

Menu tips:

• Grill the turkey or cook it over a fire pit for a smoky flavor.
• Prepare hearty fall salads and baked sides that travel well for picnics and outdoor gatherings.
• Bake mini pumpkin or apple pies for easy serving and sharing.

Enjoy the sights, sounds, and smells of autumn as your family dines under open skies or twinkling string lights.

 Planning Thanksgiving Near Zion National Park?

hike in Zion National Park

Southern Utah is brimming with Thanksgiving adventure—hiking, horseback rides, canyoneering, and guided jeep tours are all fantastic ways to reconnect with loved ones and nature.

After a full, active day, nothing beats gathering around the fireplace in one of the many cozy homes for rent near Zion National Park. These rentals—ranging from rustic cabins to modern vacation homes—are perfect for families or mixed-age groups wanting the comfort of home with the beauty of Zion outside their windows.

Also, enjoy all your time around Zion and the American southwest and include an an adventure through the Grand Canyon.

Conclusion – Outdoor Thanksgiving

An outdoor and active Thanksgiving isn’t just healthier—it’s more joyous, connected, and memorable for everyone. Whether you join a Turkey Trot, embark on a hayride, take in the fall colors, or simply walk together in gratitude, you’re sure to spark new traditions your family will cherish for years.

Ready to plan your adventure? Start looking for local events, trail maps, and that perfect vacation rental—this year, Thanksgiving is meant to be celebrated in the open air.