Autumn is a beautiful season. Oh, I know about the rain, sometimes snow, too. Yes, there’s wind, mud, bare trees, what else? And fall is still my favorite season. The air is fresh (most places), the temperature is invigorating, the sun is inviting, what more do you want? So my simple challenge to you is: Kick yourself out the door. Get outside, even if you may not feel like it. You’ll be glad you did.
Once you get out there, where do you head? If it’s hiking, check out the 3500+ hikes that are detailed at Find a Hike, on backpacker.com. Most of the hikes at this site are GPS-enabled, to view online, beam to your printer or wireless, or add to your online profile.
But wait! Don’t head out without some decent gear to keep you safe and dry. There are all kinds of gear checklists at backpacker, too. Just be sure to notice the gear lists in the top box, and don’t get tricked by the shopping lists below them.
Maps? Need more maps? The website for each US National Forest has trail maps.
Ok, one more thing: Try keeping a little bag always loaded with flashlights, batteries, toilet paper, trowel, first aid kit, and water filter. This way you can make a quick getaway when the hiking bug bites. You’ll have some of the minimal preparations already done.
This photo is one I took at the top of Old La Veta Pass, Colorado, a couple of months ago. And by the way, next time you have a good hike, I’d like to hear about it. Thanks!
Old La Veta Pass is great for hiking
