If you’re like me and the warm weather makes you crave some serious outdoor play time, you don’t even have to leave town to feel the rush of adrenaline. All of these adventures await in Queens.

Kayaking – Long Island City – On Saturday afternoons, LIC Community Boathouse offers free walk-up paddling sessions in Hallets Cove on the East River, open to children and adults of any skill level. More experienced paddlers can sign up for longer kayaking trips to various spots along the Brooklyn and Queens waterfront or around Roosevelt Island. (GMAP)

East River Kayakers

Image source: Flickr Creative Commons – user wka

 

Climbing – Long Island City – The tallest artificial outdoor climbing wall in the Northeast is right near Queens Plaza, on the back of the five-story NYC Outward Bound Schools building. Equipment and instruction are included, and proceeds help fund educational programs for NYC youth. It’s the ultimate urban challenge: make it to the top, and you’ll be able to glimpse the Manhattan skyline right from your harness. (GMAP)

Outward Bound Climbing Wall

Image source: Joanna Eng

 

Mountain biking – Fresh Meadows – OK, so there aren’t any actual mountains in Queens, but the trails of Cunningham Park offer single-track routes through the woods for bikers of all levels. For those who aren’t ready to go off-roading, the park is also home to one of the best paved bike trails in the city, providing forest cover and a respite from car traffic. (GMAP)

Trail at Cunningham Park

Image source: Flickr Creative Commons – user silveryyn

 

Surfing – Far Rockaway –  If you want to do something more exciting than build a sandcastle on your next beach trip, head to the surf beach near Beach 90th Street in Far Rockaway. Boarders Surf Shop offers board rentals, lessons, and even camp programs for kids and adults. (GMAP)

Surfers at Rockaway Beach

Image source: Flickr Creative Commons – user  ltobrooklyn

 

Ropes course – Bayside – Face your fears by tiptoeing a high-wire, scaling walls, jumping into nets, and letting yourself go on a zipline at the Alley Pond Park Adventure Course. This ropes course is not just for school or corporate retreats; individuals and families can register online for Sunday sessions. (GMAP)

Adventure Course at Alley Pond Park

Image source: Flickr Creative Commons – user edenpictures

 

Joanna Eng is a Sunnyside-based writer covering arts, culture, and all things green. She loves biking, books, public parks, and Southeast Asian vegetarian food.


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