Celebrate Global Day of Unplugging on the Trails

In today’s world, it’s almost impossible to escape screens. Between work, social media, and endless notifications, we’re constantly connected. That’s why Global Day of Unplugging is a great reminder to step away and reconnect with the world around us. But really, unplugging from technology shouldn’t be a once-a-year thing—it should be something we do often. And what better way to disconnect than to reconnect than by hitting the trails?

But what does unplugging from technology mean to Trails Offroad™? Well, keep reading to find out!

Why Unplug in the First Place?

Taking a break from technology isn’t just nice; it’s necessary. Excessive screen time can leave us feeling drained, anxious, and disconnected from the real world. And let’s be honest—some of us are probably a little embarrassed by the number of hours we spend staring at our screens.

When we step away, even for a short time, we give our minds a chance to reset. While a daily digital detox may not be possible for everyone, carving out time every week—or even every month—can provide a much-needed mental break.

Here are a few reasons why unplugging from screens is so important:

• Mental clarity - Less screen time means less overstimulation, which helps us feel more present and less stressed.
• Physical health - Spending time outside, whether hiking, camping, or off-roading, gets us moving and breathing fresh air.
• Stronger connections - When we put our phones down, we can fully engage with the people around us, whether it’s friends, family, or even just ourselves.
• Better sleep - Reducing screen time before bed improves sleep quality by minimizing blue light exposure, which disrupts melatonin production.
• Increased creativity - Giving our minds space to wander fosters new ideas and creative thinking.

The Mental and Emotional Benefits of Being Off-Grid

Stepping away from screens and constant notifications gives our minds a chance to breathe. Too much screen time has been linked to anxiety and stress, and honestly, most of us probably feel that firsthand. But when we unplug and get outside it’s like hitting a mental reset button. There’s a kind of clarity that comes with being fully present, one that’s hard to find when we’re glued to our devices.

And beyond the practical benefits, unplugging is just plain good for the soul. When we’re constantly bombarded with information, it’s hard to slow down and process anything. But out in nature, without the distractions, we get a chance to reset. It’s a kind of recharge that no amount of scrolling can replicate.

Now that you know the benefits of unplugging, we’re going to tell you exactly how we like to unplug from our daily lives!

Our Favorite Way to Unplug: Off-Roading Adventures

One of the best ways to fully disconnect—and our personal favorite—is by exploring new off-road trails. Out there, there’s no Wi-Fi, no constant pings—just the sounds of nature and the thrill of the drive. Off-roading naturally pulls you away from your phone and into the present moment. You’re focused on the terrain, following your offline maps, and navigating obstacles.

Spending time off-grid also forces you to think on your feet. There’s no Google or YouTube tutorial to bail you out—you have to rely on your own problem-solving skills. Whether it’s tackling a tricky section of the trail, setting up camp before the sun sets, or handling an unexpected truck repair, these moments test your patience but also build confidence and resilience in a way modern life rarely does.

Beyond the challenge, one of the best parts of hitting the trails is discovering those quiet, untouched spots where it’s just you and nature. You know the feeling—you roll up to a breathtaking view, the kind that makes you stop in your tracks.

At first, that solitude can feel a little daunting. But once you settle in, it becomes an opportunity to reset—to hear your own thoughts without the constant buzz of notifications. Slowly, the hustle and bustle of daily life fade into the background, and you start noticing the little things. These moments bring a level of mindfulness that’s hard to find in everyday life, and honestly, they’re good for the soul.

And unplugging doesn’t have to be a solo mission. Some of the best memories come from off-roading with friends or family—swapping stories by the campfire, spotting each other through obstacles, and sharing in the adventure. There’s something about being out there, away from distractions, that strengthens connections in a way no text message ever could.

For many, the hardest part of unplugging isn’t stepping away from technology—it’s deciding where to go.

That’s where Trails Offroad™ comes in. Our detailed trail guides make it easy to find the perfect place to explore, whether you’re looking for a scenic drive or a technical challenge. Having a solid plan makes it easier to commit to unplugging—because you know exactly where you’re headed. Now, let’s dive into how Trails Offroad™ can help you find your next off-the-grid adventure.

Using Trails Offroad™ to Find the Best Off-the-Grid Trails

If you’re looking to fully unplug for this year’s Global Day of Unplugging, there’s no better way than hitting the trails. Not sure where to go? Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered.

Trails Offroad™ makes it easy to find remote trails that take you deep into nature, far from the noise of daily life. Whether you’re after winding forest paths, high alpine roads, or secluded desert routes, their extensive trail database helps you plan the perfect escape.

Our interactive trail map sorts routes by difficulty level and lets you filter by trail status and scenery, so you can find the adventure that fits your style. Once you find the trail you want to explore you can click into the trail guide to see detailed descriptions, difficulty ratings, offline maps, and user reviews to help you pick the best route for your trip. You’ll find that some guides offer in-depth details, while others—Scout Routes—give a high-level overview of the trail.

But want to know the best features with all of our guides? You can download maps for offline use! When you're deep in the backcountry with no cell service, having a reliable, pre-downloaded map means you can navigate confidently without relying on technology. We highly recommend that you take this step before going on any journey.

Whether you're planning a quick weekend escape or a multi-day off-grid adventure, Trails Offroad™ is an invaluable tool for finding and exploring the best trails.

How to Make Unplugging a Habit

Unplugging isn’t just about taking a break for a day—it’s about making it part of your routine. Here are some easy ways to unplug more often:

• Plan regular off-road trips – Make it a goal to go somewhere with no service at least once a month.
• Set screen boundaries – Try leaving your phone in the car when you’re out exploring or setting “no phone” hours at home.
• Use Trails Offroad™ to discover new places – Having a list of trails ready to go makes it easier to commit to getting outside.
• Start small – Even a short, unplugged walk in nature can make a difference.
• Try a digital detox challenge – Commit to a day, weekend, or even a full week without unnecessary screen time.

Taking a break from screens shouldn’t feel like a chore. It’s about making space for real moments, fresh air, and new adventures. Whether you’re planning a big off-road trip or just stepping outside for a few hours, unplugging is always worth it.