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58 | TRENDS ANALYSIS TREND 6 A RISE IN NON-TRADITIONAL RECREATION Recreation trends generally shift based on societal changes and preferences over time. In recent years, there has been a rise in non-traditional and informal recreation in parks, trails, and open spaces across the country. Often times, non-traditional and informal activities are more inclusive and appeal to a wider range of people, which encourages participation from folks of all backgrounds and age groups. As recreation in parks and trails continues to become more informal, cities will need to reconsider their recreational offerings and adjust accordingly. A few examples of informal recreation include mountain biking, hiking, horseback riding, disc golf, dancing, geocaching, pickleball, skateboarding, and seasonal/holiday-themed sports. from 45% to 38% Percentage by which the restriction imposed by the pandemic reduced participation in youth sports (2018) 4 in 5 91% Urban park and recreation agencies partner with local schools to coordinate efforts that connect youth to nature (e.g., through coordinated after-school programs, nature-based field trips, and formal and informal shared usage agreements that transform schoolyards into publicly accessible spaces where children can play outside of school hours) of U.S. adults seek park-centered entertainment and social events that allow them to mix and mingle with others STATISTICS Sources: “Parks and Recreation is Essential” - National Recreation and Park Association (2023); “Top Trends in Parks and Recreation for 2024” - National Recreation and Park Association (2024) Figure 2.17: Mountain bikers navigating an informal trail in a woodland Figure 2.18: Hiking has become an increasingly popular activity on trails Figure 2.19: Teens playing ultimate frisbee