How to Propose in an Adventurous Way

If you and your partner are adventurous souls, then a traditional proposal may not be for you. Fortunately, there are plenty of exciting ways to propose that will leave your partner feeling surprised and thrilled. Here are some of the best ways to propose to your partner in an adventurous way.

There are so many traditional ways to propose- why not try something new and fun?

Updated March 14, 2024

It doesn't really matter where you propose, and from my experience as a world traveler, all these activities can be done worldwide. If you want to propose in Europe, I suggest you also check out the best places to propose in Europe.

Queenstown, New Zealand proposal

Hot Air Balloon Ride:

Underwater Proposal:

Scenic Hike:

Banff (Canadian Rockies)
Jasper (Canadian Rockies)
Squamish (Canadian PNW)
The Italian Dolomites
The Austrian Dolomites
The Bernese Alps
Mardi Himal base camp (Nepal)
Queenstown (New Zealand)
Wanaka (New Zealand)
Mount Cook (New Zealand)
Huaraz (Peru)
Torres del Paines (Patagonia)
I could keep going...

Arrange for a hot air balloon ride during sunrise or sunset, creating a romantic atmosphere high above the ground. Propose as you soar through the sky, surrounded by awe-inspiring views.

For a hot air balloon proposal, I recommend heading to Cappadocia.

If you both enjoy diving or snorkeling, consider a proposal underwater. You can spell out "Will You Marry Me?" with waterproof signs, or hide the ring in a treasure chest for your partner to discover. Just make sure the ring doesn't get lost!

Adventure Trip Proposal:

Plan an adventure trip together, such as backpacking through a foreign country, camping in the wilderness, or exploring a national park. Choose a romantic moment during the trip to propose, like under the stars by a campfire.

Adventure Scavenger Hunt:

Plan a scavenger hunt that takes your partner on a journey through significant places in your relationship, with clues leading to the proposal location. Each clue can represent a milestone or memory you've shared together.

Rock Climbing Proposal:

If you both enjoy rock climbing, propose at the top of a challenging route with a stunning view. As your partner reaches the summit of a multi-pitch, or gets back down from sending a climb, surprise them with the ring and your heartfelt proposal. Make sure they are secure first!

Or, as shown in this photo, tie their ring subtly in a figure of 8 knot, and they will be surprised when they go to tighten it.

Find more inspiration on my blogpost about the best mountain ranges in Europe.

If you aren't much of a hiker, or just don't want to sweat, it's the perfect alternative to hiking up a mountain while still getting an incredible view. If you do a helicopter proposal, it will never be forgotten by the two of you or anyone who sees the photos!

I can recommend some helicopter companies if you decide to propose in Europe, just check this useful research on useful research on heli weddings and scroll to the bottom.

Canoeing/Kayaking:

So long as you have that ring securely fasten somewhere, this is another great adventurous option. This is also how my husband proposed to me on Emerald Lake in the Canadian Rockies! <3

Squamish, BC climbing proposal

Äkäslompolo, Finland proposal

Plan a hike to a breathtaking scenic spot that holds meaning for both of you. When you reach the summit or a particularly beautiful viewpoint, pop the question with the stunning backdrop as your witness.

From personal experience, I can recommend these places for a hiking proposal:

Helicopter to a mountain top and propose: