The summer solstice, for those of a more old fashioned leaning, signals the start of summer. This symbolically signals to many in the northern hemisphere to enjoy the warmer weather and longer hours of sunshine.
Spending time outdoors offers numerous benefits for physical and mental health, including improved mood, reduced stress, better sleep, and boosted immunity. It can also enhance cognitive function, reduce anxiety and depression, and contribute to overall well-being.
In the case of the U.S., the non-profit organization SmileHub has released new reports on the Best Charities for Sports & Recreation and the Best States for Outdoor Enthusiasts in 2025 to help people find the best organisations and locations for their well-being.
To highlight the best states for outdoor enthusiasts, SmileHub compared each of the 50 states based on 18 key metrics.
The data set ranges from air pollution to outdoor gear stores per capita to the economic impact of outdoor recreation. Air pollution is a key metric for many, given its association with respiratory conditions.
Air pollution relates to the introduction of chemicals, particulate matter, or biological materials into the atmosphere that cause harm or discomfort to humans or other living organisms.
Based on the key metrics and the subsequent analysis of the data, this review revealed the best states to be:
1. Montana
2. Alaska
3. Colorado
4. Washington
5. Utah
6. Vermont
7. South Dakota
8. Maine
9. Wyoming
10. Oregon
In contrast, the worst states for enjoying the fresh outdoors were identified as:
41. Nebraska
42. Rhode Island
43. Illinois
44. Alabama
45. Nevada
46. Kansas
47. Arkansas
48. Kentucky
49. Oklahoma
50. Mississippi
Between the ranking there are some interesting variances. Maine has the highest share of forest coverage –47.7 times more than North Dakota, which has the lowest share.
On the topic of air quality, Hawaii has the least air pollution – 3 times less than California, which has the most air pollution.
Whereas in terms of the pressures of working and the work-life balance, Utah has the lowest share of adults reporting no leisure-time physical activity – 2 times lower than Mississippi, which has the highest share.
