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Rainy days have plagued the last few weekends, maybe even hampering your outdoor plans as summer begins. But regardless of the rain, National Get Outdoors Day is a go tomorrow, giving everyone a reason to take up a recreational activity. In Denver, mark the occasion at the City Park Pavilion between 9 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. for free outdoor entertainment and prizes like ski passes and hiking gear.
Here are five activities that shouldn’t be missed:
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1. Rock climbing: Pretend you’re scaling the side of a fourteener when you take a shot at one of the two climbing walls.
2. Skiing in the park: Take advantage of an off-season opportunity to hone your ski skills with a dry ski slope brought in by Vail Resorts. Instructors from Breckenridge will also be available to give pointers.
3. President’s Physical Fitness Challenge: You may remember this routine from gym class in high school, but try it out to see exactly where your fitness ranks now. Think bragging rights for your sit-up abilities.
4. Camping equipment demonstration: If you’re like me and have terrible memories about pitching a tent, this may be just the refresher you need to plan a summer camping trip. Find out which basics you’ll need for your trip and how to leave your campsite the way you found it.
5. Canoeing and kayaking: Slow the pace of the day with a canoe tour on the park’s Ferril Lake, or challenge a friend or family member to a kayak race if you’re still in high-energy mode.
Severe Weather Alternative: Although organizers have promised to keep the activities going throughout all but severe weather circumstances, if it rains, and you’re not inclined to play in it, keep the nearby Denver Museum of Nature & Science in mind for a contingency plan. The museum’s latest permanent exhibit, “Expedition Health,” is a fitting alternative on National Get Outdoors Day. Entry costs $11 and includes general admission to the rest of the museum.