What's On My Outdoors Joy List This Fall

The Little Outdoorsy Moments I'm Loving Right Now

Oct 25, 2025

Maybe it’s something about the fall colors being in full swing that has me in a total state of bliss every time I’m outside. But soaking up the season is basically my whole personality at the moment.

And I can’t be the only one. This is my “joy list,” if you will, this season. The little moments I’m absolutely loving right now.

The sound of bike tires cruising through giant swaths of crispy fall leaves sprinkled over neighborhood roads and local trails.
The deliciously crisp smell of the autumn air. I just can’t explain it, but when you throw the smell of a backyard charcoal grill or fire pit into the mix? Pure magic.
The absolutely unmatched mix of pairing shorts with a cozy crew neck sweater. No one can convince me otherwise: shorts and long sleeves is the elite combination. There is no better walking (or running) outfit.
The way our white linen curtains blow in the wind when the window’s open and catch the warm light at sunrise. Truly carefree.
Boots on my feet. I love a good boot. Especially a boot that’s particularly skilled in squishing autumn leaves in the woods.
Evenings spent by the fire pit with a good glass of whiskey (rye, preferably). Especially when paired with a cozy throw to make the patio chairs a little comfier.
Driving around the mountains for no reason other than to have the windows down and peep the changing of the leaves, coffee in hand.
Layers, layers, and more layers. Don’t get me wrong, I can’t stand having to layer in the winter (and I dread having to whip out the hand warmers and snow boots). But in the fall? It still feels fun and playful to get outside with a couple layers to keep things interesting.
Seeing the first layers of snow collecting on the mountain peaks. It’s like powdered sugar on my favorite desert: the hiking trails.
Watching the look of awe on my kids’ faces as they experience the way the alpine lights up this time of year (they don’t call it Colorful Colorado for nothing).

So What’s On Your Joy List?

I know not everyone is fall obsessed, and to be honest, I’ve always been more of a summer girl to begin with (I’ll never tire of wildflower season here in Colorado).

But it’s hard to deny how absolutely magical fall (and the crisp weather) can feel for the fleeting few weeks it really feels like it’s here with us.

I want to know: what are you doing to get outside during the season? What’s currently brining you joy?

In Case You Missed It

Speaking of seasons, the other week I shared my thoughts on the winter hiking season and why I’ve been a little nervous about it lately. Not going to lie, I was a bit nervous to share this one, but in honor of vulnerability, I felt it needed to be put out there.