Do you already have a wish for your outdoor activities in 2026? In this column three years ago, I proposed to toss the word “resolution” in favor of “wish” (“Make a Wish Instead of a Resolution,” Jan. 5, 2023). While both require some work on our part, making a wish offers a more positive perspective. As I wrote then: “Drawing up a few plans in early January should be energizing. If the wish doesn’t come true, we won’t call it a failure. Who needs that negative energy?”
As I get older, my main wish for each new year is staying as active as I was the previous one, so some of what I plan is not new. I recently recommitted to running and, to keep me motivated, I signed up for the Foggy Bottom Milk Run in Ferndale (March 8) and the Grasshopper Peak Redwoods Run in Humboldt Redwoods State Park (June 6). A commitment to road-run 10 miles in March and trail-run 10.5 miles in June means I need to train. I participated in both last year and remembering how much I enjoyed myself encourages me during training.
As soon as registration opened, I signed up for the Crescent City Triathlon (July 26). I am not suggesting everyone turn into a runner or triathlete, though both activities are fun. But maybe neither running nor hopping from pool to bicycle to running shoes interests you (“Don’t Worry, Be Walking,” Jan. 16, 2025). Walking is a great way to exercise our body and calm our mind. The forest, the dunes, the beach and our neighborhoods are all perfect locations for a walk.
What I am suggesting is starting the year with a renewed commitment to take care of our health, and outdoor physical activity, by more research than I can quote, is an excellent way to do that. There are guidelines recommending certain activity levels for different age brackets, but overall, any physical activity is better than none. (Remember to consult your physician before starting any exercise program.)
My main, new-for-me physical activity-related wish for 2026 is to hike Grasshopper Mountain in Humboldt Redwoods State Park, which will be the most challenging hike I have ever done. Originally it was my wish for 2025, but it has remained unfulfilled due to life events scrambling my plans. (See the first paragraph above: not a failure, just a delay.)
Perhaps for 2026, you may consider wishing for one thing that pushes you beyond what you have done so far, which, of course, depends on you. My recommendation is to make it simple, doable (best be realistic) and measurable (also in terms of progress towards it). And share your wish with people who will support your choice and encourage you along the way.
Parting thought: While I do some activities on my own, I have experienced and recognize the power of group support. For example, hiking with a friend, besides being a safety move, is fun. You share the path as well as sights and sounds along the way. The exuberance at the start of a race is contagious, which is why I enjoy participating in the Six Rivers Running Club’s events, where people are kind and welcoming, the energy is palpable, yet the atmosphere is relaxed.
In summary, make (at least) one wish, make it public, make sure people around you are supportive (cheerleaders, not critics). Then go and have fun making it come true.
Simona Carini (she/her) shares photographs of her outdoor explorations (and of food) on Instagram @simonacarini.
This article appears in Health and Wellness 2026.