hike. more. together.
Together Every Step of the Way...
and with this fluffy guy.
Did you know that America has over 200,000 miles of trails? These trails allow us all access to the natural world for not only recreation but exploration, inspiration, solitude, and education. Who doesn't need an opportunity to escape from reality, to unplug, breathe in fresh air and get your heart pumping?
According to Ignacio Malpica, a certified fitness instructor and personal trainer in Boulder, Colorado, “Hiking exercises your body and your mind and nourishes your imagination. It creates awareness in your eyes and ears and the rest of your senses.”
We are so lucky to live in a breathtaking part of the country that is home to numerous scenic and special places. It's impossible to go on a hike and not return feeling refreshed and renewed, not to mention connected.
Take advantage of the outstanding scenery in your neck of the woods by heading out for a date with your mate. The romance on the trail can come in the form of a captivating sunset, a surprise encounters with wildlife, a smooch underneath a waterfall, the discovery of a memorable natural object, a cuddle overlooking a ridge, or the opportunity to tune into your heightened, engaged senses.
Note to self...just don't make your first hiking experience together one in which you try to conquer an active volcano, with an elevation climb to 8,000 plus feet, or a super strenuous feat, such as our grueling hike up Mt. St. Helens in Washington. Make your first hike a romantic or creative surprise vs. a sweaty, 10-hour plus challenge.
Prepared to hike Mt. St. Helens
Pre-hike.
During.
During the arduous hike...
Yes, we had to scale boulders - mountain goat-style.
Pick your first hike to a romantic spot like this...
I love hiking to waterfalls best.
Resources to help:
Map My Hike - to track your hiked miles, map your route and share your favorite hikes with others.
All Trails - great reviews of hikes near you, often less traveled. Provide info on dog-friendly trails, trails with waterfalls, trails with beaches and even have a map. Track your tracks and trails.
All Trails Hiking & Mountain Biking Trails App - a great free app with GPS Tracker and Offline Topo Maps.
American Hiking Society - includes a state directory of parks and forests with current conditions.
Backpacker magazine - the authority on all-things hiking and backpacking via magazine and online website.
How to Pack for a Backpack Trip- A thorough resource from Jen Reviews, for preparing and packing for backpack trips of various lengths of time.
Happy romantic trails to you!
