Outdoor Activity
Nature-based recreation

This indicator tracks participation in nature-based recreation in the Puget Sound region during winter, spring, fall and summer seasons. Recreational activities tracked are limited to those within the scope of Puget Sound recovery and include both passive and active recreational activities, such as wildlife-watching, fishing, bicycling, boating, and swimming.

We measure outdoor activity in Puget Sound for 11-12 activities across five frequency options over two seasons. Chart shows the 2024 survey results for spring recreation. Percentages less than 3% are not labeled.

Key Vital Sign Indicator Results

  • About 82% of respondents engaged in some sort of outdoor activity at least five days per month.
  • Only about 2% of respondents said they did not engage in any outdoor activity provided.
  • The most frequent activities in all years and seasons were gardening/yardwork, followed by the use of paved and unpaved paths or trails for walking, running, and biking.
  • There have been no statistically significant differences between the frequency of any activities since 2018.

Contributing Partners

Target

No targets are currently set for this indicator.

Data Source

Oregon State University Human Dimensions Lab

Human Wellbeing Vital Signs Survey 2024 Summary Report

Vital Sign Indicator Reporter
Indicator Details
Click below for more information about this indicator, including Maps, Charts, Indicator Importance, Methods, Interpretation of Results, and Additional Resources.
Last Updated
08/04/2025