The great outdoors has never been more popular. From skyrocketing sales of hiking gear to surging interest in adventure travel, the active lifestyle trend shows no signs of slowing down. But what does the future hold? As we reflect on the standout outdoor and fitness moments of 2025, our expert analysis reveals some surprising predictions for 2026 and beyond.

2025 in Review: The Year Outdoor Went Mainstream

There's no doubt that 2025 was a landmark year for the outdoor industry. Forced indoors by the pandemic, consumers flocked to hiking, camping, and other nature-based activities in record numbers. Major retailers like REI and Patagonia reported their highest sales ever, while new direct-to-consumer brands like Mountain Hardwear and Backcountry saw explosive growth.

What this really means is that the outdoor lifestyle has firmly crossed over from niche to mainstream. No longer just the domain of granola-crunching enthusiasts, activities like trail running, rock climbing, and mountain biking have become widely popular across demographics. The pandemic may have been the initial catalyst, but it's clear this is a lasting cultural shift.

2026 Forecast: The Great Outdoor Reset

So where do we go from here? Our analysis suggests the outdoor boom is far from over - but the landscape is about to shift in some unexpected ways. Here are three key trends to watch for in 2026 and beyond:

  • Wellness Meets the Wild: As consumers prioritize holistic health, we'll see the rise of "wellness retreats" that blend outdoor adventure with mindfulness, meditation, and other self-care practices. Think yoga hikes, forest bathing tours, and digital detox camps.
  • The Great (Urban) Outdoors: With many city-dwellers now hooked on the outdoor life, expect to see a surge of investment in urban green spaces, bike lanes, and outdoor recreational facilities. Parks, trails, and other nature-based amenities will become must-have features for modern cities.
  • Tech-Powered Exploration: As the intersection of tech and the outdoors continues to evolve, new gadgets and apps will make exploring nature more accessible and immersive than ever. From AR-enabled hiking guides to electric mountain bikes, the great outdoors is getting a major digital upgrade.

The bottom line? The outdoor boom is here to stay. But as the market matures, we'll see the active lifestyle trend evolve in fascinating and unexpected ways. Wellness, urbanism, and technology are all poised to reshape how we connect with nature in the years to come.