Looking for an adventure that is not only challenging, spontaneous, and fun -- but also one that helps other people?  Boston Cares has an exciting day for you!

On Saturday, April 28, join hundreds of other Bostonians in the Dash for a Difference, a "race through Boston neighborhoods on a quest to help others, learn about our city, and raise funds for Boston Cares."

You'll get a chance to engage in a series of quick, short-term volunteer opportunities, while at the same time exploring Greater Boston and solving puzzles along the way. Think of it as a scavenger hunt that helps others at the same time. 

Read more: Dash for a Difference!

Have you ever taken a very cold shower early in the morning in order to start your day on the fast track? Do for the new year what a cold shower does for your day by jumping into the frigid waters of Carson Beach on January 1st.

It's truly a Boston tradition; the L Street Brownies have been organizing the annual plunge for over 100 years. If you're a wimp and just want to watch, be there before 8am. If you've got the adventurous spirit to participate, be at the L Street bathhouse (in the Curley Community Center) at 6:30am for registration.

Anxious? Find out what it's like (with chill-inducing photos) from two BostonSOS contributors:

Nick Carlisle's experience at Revere Beach's polar bear plunge
Jenny Bergman's experience at the Monument Beach plunge

The Adventure Blog featured an article on “having an adventure by having no choice”, which is something I've tried to believe in for years. It's not always easy; a number of years ago, I would panic every time I traveled anywhere, even if the end destination was someplace cool. And when I say panic, I mean panic: tears, shakes, complete meltdown. Many people would argue that if you are that frightened to do something, just don't do it; it's supposed to be fun, right?

Read more: Zip Lines & Heights