Age as a ‘Perfect Age’ for Adventure: Empty Nesters Travel to See All 63 US National Parks?
Photo Credit (Pixabay)
A recent survey of 2,000 individuals finds an encouraging trend: more than a third of respondents say they are getting more adventurous as they get older, coinciding with American Adventures Month. Despite the fact that 42 is considered to be the best age for adventure, an overwhelming 83% of respondents to the survey agreed that “”age is just a number”” when it comes to traveling and seeing the globe. The bulk of travelers, from Baby Boomers to Gen X and Millennials, fit four or five excursions into a year, proving that wanderlust has no boundaries.
Matt and Karen Smith are one couple who epitomizes this spirit. They set out to explore all 63 of the United States’ National Parks in their 60s, and they succeeded in doing so in just two years. The Smiths realized that life is short sixteen years ago when their youngest son moved out of the house, especially after losing multiple loved ones. We understood that we didn’t have to stay at home any longer—if we wanted to visit all these parks, now was the perfect time, as Karen put it.
They started their journey with parks close to their Seattle home, full of purpose, and the rest is history. The couple saw the breathtaking grandeur of America’s wilderness by flying or driving to every National Park instead of using an RV. Their adventure was full of life-altering experiences, from the bison, grizzly bears, and wolves they witnessed in Yellowstone to a tranquil 16-day rafting expedition down the Colorado River in the Grand Canyon.
“The national parks made us realize how incredibly beautiful our own country is, even though we had already seen a lot of Europe,” Karen remarked. “We’ve discovered a side of America we never knew,” we said.
So when is the right age to go on an adventure? The Smiths and many others demonstrate that adventure never stops—it simply changes with age. For some, 42 may be the sweet spot.
Suggestions for Leading a More Exciting Life as You Get Older:
“You never know what you might accomplish.” “Take lots of pictures so you can look back on your adventures for years to come.” “Be spontaneous and welcome detours.” “Try something new—something you never thought you’d do.”” “Seek both thrills and relaxation.
