If you find that you have more time on your hands lately, now is a good opportunity to try something new. Take advantage of these warm days by indulging your passion for the outdoors. Here are a few of the best hobbies for nature lovers.

Wildlife watching

Sometimes the best activities are the ones that make you slow down. When’s the last time you took a time-out to truly appreciate nature, up close and personal? Or with just a set of binoculars between you?

Take a spectacular drive from the safety of your car. The Guanella Pass Scenic Byway isn’t just about the Rockies, for instance. You’ll also see mountain goats, beavers, and bighorn sheep.

Or, if you have the patience, you may prefer the majestic peace of birdwatching. Since the beginning of the pandemic, thousands of new enthusiasts have discovered online bird cams and bird-identifying apps. All you need to get started is a field guide and a passing interest. If you get hooked, you can find binoculars in every price range at Audubon.org.

Beekeeping

That’s right—while Colorado has about 20 professional beekeepers, it’s also home to plenty of beekeeping hobbyists. In most cities, you can have two hives for each single-family backyard.

See if you have a taste for it! You can sign up for classes or try a beginner’s starter kit.

Making your garden bee-friendly will improve the flowers and vegetables you grow. You’ll also be saving the planet—at least on a small-scale. With bee populations dwindling, the entire food chain is at risk. This way, you’ll be doing your part to boost pollination.

If you’re looking for something to do while furloughed, you might enjoy turning this hobby into a profitable one. You can sell your honey or use the beeswax for crafting lip balms, candles, soaps, and more.

Hiking

If it helps, call it “walking.” It sounds less vigorous that way.

Luckily, you’re in Colorado, so there are lots of trails to help you ease into your new hobby. Choose a trail that’s under three hours, like the Trading Post Trail at Red Rocks Park. While you’re hiking, you’ll see 10 of the park’s most magnificent rock formations, as well as considerable wildlife.

You do have to take some safety measures first. Pack a lightweight kit that includes water, food, sun protection, and first aid supplies. In case of emergency, you’ll also need a compass, a few more clothing layers, waterproof matches, and a repair kit.

A few more tips: Check the weather. Know where you’re going. Tell someone where you’re going to be. Oh! And tie your shoes.

The summer goes by fast, so the best hobbies for nature lovers are the ones you make time for. Get out there and have yourself an adventure!