The Impact of Smartphones on Outdoor Recreation: A Case Study from Maine

In recent years, the advent of smartphones has drastically altered various aspects of daily life, including how we engage with the outdoors. A striking example of this transformation can be seen through the personal account of Jay Schurman, a former outfitter from Maine, who shared his observations on Twitter about the decline of the whitewater rafting business. Schurman’s experiences provide a compelling insight into how technology, particularly mobile devices, has reshaped recreational activities and outdoor engagement.

The Rise of Smartphones: A New Era of Connectivity

The integration of computers into smartphones has revolutionized communication and access to information. With the ability to connect with friends, stream videos, and browse the internet at our fingertips, many individuals find themselves spending more time indoors. This shift in behavior has significant implications for outdoor activities, especially those that rely on physical engagement and adventure, such as whitewater rafting.

Declining Participation in Outdoor Activities

According to Schurman, the whitewater rafting business in Maine has experienced a staggering 50% decline since he sold his outfitting business in 2003. This statistic raises important questions about the changing landscape of outdoor recreation. As smartphones become ubiquitous, they have inadvertently contributed to a more sedentary lifestyle. People are increasingly choosing to engage with digital entertainment rather than seeking out physical experiences in nature.

The Role of Technology in Shaping Leisure Activities

The impact of smartphones extends beyond mere distraction; they have fundamentally changed how people perceive leisure activities. For many, the convenience of technology offers immediate gratification that outdoor experiences cannot match. The allure of social media, video games, and streaming services often takes precedence over planning a day of adventure in the great outdoors.

The Consequences for Outdoor Businesses

Schurman’s firsthand experience as a former outfitter highlights the broader consequences that the decline in outdoor activity has had on businesses that rely on these experiences. As participation dwindles, companies in the outdoor recreation sector face significant challenges. This includes not just the loss of revenue but also the potential for job losses and the decline of local economies that benefit from tourism and outdoor activities.

Reconnecting with Nature in the Age of Technology

Despite the challenges posed by smartphones and technology, there is a growing movement to encourage people to disconnect from their devices and reconnect with nature. Many organizations and advocates are promoting outdoor activities as a way to combat the sedentary lifestyle that technology fosters. Initiatives that focus on family-friendly outdoor experiences, educational programs, and community events can help rekindle interest in activities like whitewater rafting, hiking, and camping.

The Importance of Outdoor Education

Education plays a vital role in fostering a love for the outdoors, particularly among younger generations who may be more immersed in technology. Schools and community programs that emphasize outdoor education and experiential learning can inspire children to appreciate nature and seek out recreational activities beyond their screens. By cultivating a sense of adventure and environmental stewardship, we can encourage a more active lifestyle.

Embracing Technology for Outdoor Promotion

Interestingly, technology can also be leveraged to promote outdoor activities. Social media platforms can serve as powerful marketing tools for outdoor businesses, helping them reach potential customers who may not have previously considered such experiences. By showcasing the thrill of whitewater rafting and other outdoor adventures through engaging content, businesses can draw attention to their offerings and inspire people to venture outside.

Conclusion: A Call to Action for Outdoor Engagement

Jay Schurman’s observation about the decline of the whitewater rafting industry serves as a poignant reminder of the impact of technology on our lives. While smartphones have undoubtedly brought convenience and connectivity, they have also contributed to a culture of inactivity and disconnection from the natural world. As we navigate this complex landscape, it is essential for individuals, communities, and businesses to work together to promote outdoor activities and encourage a healthier, more active lifestyle.

By raising awareness and fostering a culture that values outdoor recreation, we can counteract the trends that have led to the decline of businesses like Schurman’s. Whether it’s through education, innovative marketing strategies, or simply encouraging friends and family to explore the great outdoors, there are countless ways to inspire a resurgence of interest in outdoor activities.

In conclusion, while the presence of smartphones has transformed how we interact with the world, it is crucial to find a balance that allows us to embrace technology while also reconnecting with nature. The future of outdoor recreation depends on our collective efforts to encourage active engagement with the environment, ensuring that activities like whitewater rafting continue to thrive for generations to come.

Computers on phones have changed the world. I was an outfitter in Maine for 25 years selling my business in 2003. Since then the whitewater rafting business has fallen by 50%. People stay inside and are less active than in the world without smartphones.

— Jay Schurman (@jayrschurman) March 23, 2025

Computers on Phones Have Changed the World

You know, it’s hard to overstate just how much computers on phones have changed the world we live in today. Think about it: we carry around little devices that have more computing power than the systems that sent astronauts to the moon! But this technological marvel comes with some unintended consequences, especially for activities that used to bring people together, like outdoor adventures.

Just ask Jay Schurman, a former outfitter in Maine who spent 25 years guiding people through the thrilling world of whitewater rafting. After selling his business in 2003, he noticed a dramatic shift in the industry. According to him, the whitewater rafting business has fallen by 50% in recent years, largely due to the rise of smartphones and the digital distractions they bring. People are staying indoors more, leading to a decline in outdoor activities and overall physical activity levels.

I Was an Outfitter in Maine for 25 Years

When you’ve spent a quarter of a century in the business of guiding people through the wild waters of Maine, you develop a keen sense of what draws people outside. For many, the thrill of whitewater rafting wasn’t just about the adrenaline rush; it was about connecting with nature, friends, and sometimes even themselves. But with the advent of smartphones, everything changed.

Suddenly, the great outdoors was competing with screens that offer everything from social media to video games. It’s no wonder many people choose to stay inside, where they can scroll through their feeds or binge-watch their favorite shows. The allure of nature, once a powerful motivator, has been significantly dulled by the bright screens in our pockets.

Selling My Business in 2003

In 2003, when I decided to sell my whitewater rafting business, it felt like the end of an era. I had built a successful company that allowed people to experience the thrill of the rapids, but even then, I could sense the shift. The first iPhone had just been released, and the digital age was beginning to take off.

Fast forward to today, and it’s evident that smartphones have completely transformed not just how we communicate, but also how we engage with the world around us. The convenience of technology is undeniable, but it comes at a cost. For many, the excitement of outdoor activities has been replaced by the comfort of home entertainment.

Since Then the Whitewater Rafting Business Has Fallen by 50%

The statistics speak volumes. The whitewater rafting business has indeed fallen by 50% since the rise of smartphones. It’s not just a coincidence but rather a reflection of changing consumer habits. People are now more inclined to spend their weekends binge-watching Netflix or scrolling through Instagram than seeking adventure in nature.

This decline isn’t limited to whitewater rafting; it’s a trend seen across various outdoor activities. Hiking, camping, and even simple picnics in the park are becoming less popular as digital distractions continue to dominate our lives. The outdoor industry faces a significant challenge in rekindling that sense of adventure and excitement that once drew people outside.

People Stay Inside and Are Less Active

The repercussions of this shift are profound. With people staying inside and being less active, we are witnessing a public health issue develop right before our eyes. Sedentary lifestyles are linked to numerous health problems, including obesity, heart disease, and mental health issues.

It’s alarming to think that the very technology designed to make our lives easier and more connected may be contributing to a more isolated and inactive society. The irony is hard to ignore: smartphones provide a gateway to the world, yet they also serve as a barrier, keeping us from experiencing the beauty of the outdoors.

To combat this trend, some organizations and individuals are working hard to promote outdoor activities and encourage people to unplug and reconnect with nature. Initiatives aimed at getting families and friends out into the wild are crucial in reversing the decline of outdoor participation.

Balancing Technology and Nature

So, what can we do? Finding a balance between our digital lives and the natural world is essential. Here are a few ideas:

1. **Set Tech-Free Zones**: Establish areas in your home or during outings where smartphones are not allowed. This encourages everyone to engage with their surroundings and each other.

2. **Plan Outdoor Activities**: Make a conscious effort to schedule outdoor adventures. Whether it’s hiking, kayaking, or simply having a picnic, getting outside can boost mood and mental health.

3. **Incorporate Technology Positively**: Use apps that promote outdoor activities, such as hiking or cycling trails. Some apps can even help you find local events or outdoor groups to join.

4. **Educate Others**: Share your own experiences and the benefits of spending time outdoors. Encouraging others to step away from their screens can create a ripple effect in your community.

5. **Lead by Example**: Show your friends and family that adventure is waiting just outside the door. Whether it’s a weekend camping trip or a day spent exploring a nearby nature reserve, being proactive can inspire others to join.

Conclusion

The reality is that computers on phones have fundamentally changed how we interact with the world. For better or worse, our lives are now intertwined with technology, and while it offers conveniences we can’t deny, it also poses challenges we must address.

As Jay Schurman highlights, the decline in outdoor activities, such as whitewater rafting, is just one example of how smartphones have shifted our focus. We have the power to change this narrative by consciously choosing to step outside, breathe in the fresh air, and experience the world beyond our screens.

Let’s embrace the technology that connects us while also recognizing the importance of disconnecting to reconnect—with nature, with ourselves, and with each other. After all, the world is still waiting for us to explore it.