Dry and Outside: The Rise of Sober Outdoor Recreation Experiences

Alcohol consumption has long been enmeshed in outdoor recreation culture. However, this norm is challenged by the increasing number of individuals who are sober or sober-curious, and who create an opportunity—and perhaps a need—to apply theories native to the leisure sciences in exploring new ways to engage in outdoor recreation without the expectation of alcohol. This shift is significant for its potential to reshape social dynamics in outdoor spaces and its implications for the outdoor industry and recreation groups. This research reflection explores previous research at the intersection of alcohol sobriety and outdoor recreation and reviews observed emerging trends in outdoor culture. We conclude with a variety of theory-driven research questions that might 1) yield useful opportunities to apply social science theory as it relates to leisure toward an emerging phenomenon and 2) inform all matters of programming, recreation management, and leisure purveyance regarding outdoor recreation in an increasingly sober world.