On January 1, 2026, ArkansasOutside.com owner and editor Joe Jacobs joined Steve Powell on Good Morning Arkansas to talk about easy and realistic ways Arkansans can spend more time outdoors in the new year.
The conversation focused on lowering barriers to outdoor recreation and helping people see that getting outside does not require special gear, long travel, or large blocks of free time. Instead, Jacobs emphasized that Arkansas offers countless opportunities to build outdoor time into everyday life.
Small Adventures Fit Into Busy Lives
One of the key themes of the segment was that outdoor recreation does not have to mean a full day trip or an epic adventure. For many people, especially those new to outdoor activities or short on time, small outings close to home can be just as meaningful.
Jacobs highlighted neighborhood parks, city trails, and river access points as ideal places for short walks, quick bike rides, or brief paddles. Even 20 to 30 minutes outside can provide physical and mental benefits while making outdoor time feel manageable rather than overwhelming.
Trends Shaping Outdoor Recreation in Arkansas
During the discussion, Jacobs pointed to several trends he is seeing across Arkansas. More people are choosing local trails and greenways over long drives, especially on weekdays. Group activities like community bike rides, guided hikes, and volunteer trail days are also growing in popularity, helping people combine social connection with time outdoors.
There is also increasing interest in accessible and inclusive outdoor spaces. Expanded trail systems, improved river access, and community focused projects are making it easier for people of all ages and abilities to participate.
Turning Outdoor Time Into a Habit
Rather than setting big goals that are hard to maintain, Jacobs encouraged viewers to start small and be intentional. Choosing one or two activities you enjoy and scheduling them into your week makes outdoor time more likely to stick.
Simple steps like keeping walking shoes in the car, planning a regular park visit, or joining a recurring group ride can turn occasional outings into lasting habits. Accountability, whether through friends or community events, also plays a major role in staying consistent.
Arkansas Offers Year Round Opportunities
Arkansas’s diverse landscape supports outdoor recreation in every season. From state parks and national forests to urban trails and rivers, there are options no matter the time of year. Jacobs noted that many people overlook nearby resources like local nature preserves, interpretive park programs, and volunteer opportunities that provide easy entry points into outdoor activities.
By highlighting these everyday opportunities, the segment reinforced that spending more time outdoors in Arkansas does not require expert knowledge or expensive gear, just a willingness to step outside.
A Simple Message for the New Year
As the segment wrapped up, Jacobs shared a straightforward message for 2026. Start small, stay local, and focus on what brings joy. Arkansas has the space, trails, rivers, and community to support an outdoor lifestyle that fits real life.
For more ideas, events, and inspiration, visit ArkansasOutside.com and explore what is happening outdoors across the Natural State.
This article was originally published on ArkansasOutside.com, your trusted source for outdoor news and updates in The Natural State. Unless otherwise credited, all photos included in this piece are the property of Arkansas Outside, LLC. We take pride in sharing the beauty and adventures of Arkansas through our lens—thank you for supporting our work!
