Spring’s that time of year when everything starts moving again—fish are biting, birds are gobbling, and the woods are finally thawing out. It’s also one of the best times to get outside before the heat, bugs, and crowds roll in. Whether you’re looking to chase turkeys, paddle quiet lakes, or hook into a bass that’s moved up to spawn, now’s the time to plan your next trip.
Here are 10 wild spring adventures worth making time for—because sitting around waiting for summer means missing some of the best action of the year.
1. Shed Hunting in the Rockies
Spring’s the sweet spot for shed hunting, and the Rockies are a prime spot. Elk and mule deer start dropping antlers as the snow melts, and if you hit the foothills early, you can walk out with a solid haul. Look for south-facing slopes where the sun hits first and focus on bedding areas and trails.
It’s also a great excuse to knock the rust off your boots and get back into hiking shape. Plus, it doesn’t hurt that you’re surrounded by fresh mountain air, melting snowpack, and wide-open country waking back up after winter.
2. Turkey Hunting in the Ozarks
Spring turkey in the Ozarks is hard to beat. You’ve got rolling hills, thick woods, and gobblers that actually respond when you call. The terrain makes you work for it, but that’s half the fun—one minute you’re crouched under cedars, the next you’re belly-crawling over a ridge.
Missouri and northern Arkansas both offer public land options that don’t get totally hammered with pressure. Get there early, know the land, and be patient. If you’ve never had a big tom strut into range with the morning fog rising—you’re missing out.
3. Bass Fishing at Lake Guntersville
Lake Guntersville in Alabama heats up fast in the spring, and the bass action gets wild once the spawn kicks off. You’ll find largemouths moving into shallow water, hitting crankbaits, plastics, and topwater early in the day.
It’s a solid mix of fishing from boat or shore, and there’s no shortage of coves and grass beds to work. If you like a tug on the line every few casts, Guntersville’s the kind of place where a personal best feels possible on any given morning.
4. Canoe Camping the Boundary Waters
The Boundary Waters between Minnesota and Canada feel like a different world. Ice-out usually wraps up by mid-May, and the earlier you get there, the fewer people you’ll run into. It’s all glassy lakes, thick forests, and loons echoing across the water.
You’ll want to pack smart, travel light, and prep for bugs once the weather warms up. But if you’re looking to really disconnect and paddle between campsites with everything you need in your boat, this is the trip to plan.
5. Trout Fishing in the Smokies
The Great Smoky Mountains start coming alive in spring, and so do the trout. The streams run cold and clear, and the fish are hungry after winter. Whether you’re throwing flies or light spinning gear, you’ll find good browns, rainbows, and brookies in shaded pools and riffles.
It’s also just a beautiful time to be in the woods—early wildflowers, cooler temps, and not a ton of crowds yet. You’ll want to cover some ground and fish a few creeks. A little boot leather goes a long way in these hills.
6. Desert Hiking in Big Bend
Big Bend National Park in Texas is best hit in spring before it turns into an oven. You’ve got wide desert trails, slot canyons, and the Chisos Mountains if you want to gain some elevation. The cactus flowers start blooming around March, and the views are flat-out underrated.
Don’t underestimate the heat or the distance between water sources, though. Carry more water than you think you’ll need and prep your route. If you want to hike hard and get away from crowds, Big Bend’s the real deal.
7. Crappie Fishing at Reelfoot Lake
Reelfoot Lake in Tennessee gets hot with crappie action every spring, and locals know the deal—flooded cypress trees, shallow bites, and limits that come easy if you time it right. Jigging near structure or using minnows under a slip bobber usually does the trick.
It’s a good lake to fish slow and steady. The layout makes it feel like you’re in a different era—old-school boats, Spanish moss, and quiet mornings. Spring’s the time to go before the heat and crowds move in later.
8. Spring Bear Hunt in Idaho
If you’re serious about bear hunting, Idaho’s spring season offers some of the best DIY opportunities out there. The backcountry is waking up, bears are out looking for food, and you can glass for miles from the right ridge.
Spot-and-stalk is the name of the game here. It’s challenging, but that’s what makes it so worth it. Be ready to hike, be patient, and know how to judge a bear before you pull the trigger. It’s not easy, but it’s one heck of a hunt.
9. Backpacking in the Red River Gorge
Kentucky’s Red River Gorge is one of those places that’s somehow still under the radar. Spring brings cooler weather, fewer snakes, and better views through the trees. The trails wind through rock arches, ridges, and deep hollows. It’s rugged, but not overwhelming.
If you want a backpacking trip that offers solitude and solid terrain without needing to hop a plane, this is a strong option. It’s also perfect for tossing in a little hammock camping and watching the stars if you get a clear night.
10. Walleye Run on the Maumee River
Every spring, the Maumee River in Ohio turns into a walleye highway. As water temps rise, fish head upstream, and anglers follow. You’ll see folks wading out in chest-deep water throwing jigs for hours—and for good reason. The catch potential is real.
Timing’s everything, and conditions change fast. Watch water levels and be ready to pivot. When the bite is on, you can fill a limit fast. Bring good waders, dress warm, and be ready to share the river with plenty of others doing the same thing.
*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.
