The Green Hiker

Today, June 5th, is National Trails Day!

The trail awareness program sponsored by the American Hiking Society attempts to inspire both the casual outdoors person and the dedicated hiker to explore a local hiking trail.

And in the spirit of the day, the National Park Service is waiving entrance fees in over 100 parks this weekend.

Additional Info:

• AHS General Trails Day Information

• State by State Listing of Parks with entrance fees waived.

Now Go Outdoors!

With the tag “Get Outdoors Wherever You Are”, the National Wildlife Federation’s Get Outside page sports the nifty Nature Find tool that allows you to find outdoor events and/or sites within one to 500 miles of any U.S. location.

Using Google Maps and a database of almost 30 site types including parks, aquariums, trails, and preserves, you can easily find a local destination no matter where you are in the country.

And you can filter your search to show only sites that include activities:  NWF events, camping, water sports, snow sports, cycling, walking, and nature events …. to name a few.

Check out my crude screen capture video to get a better flavor of this “you-have-no-excuse” Nature Find.

Nature Find Video

Now Go Outdoors!

Every hiker has a favorite quick get-away trail. Usually very local–and very nearby–the trail provides a hiking fix when time and/or other resources are limited.

Urban, suburban or rural hiking trails that are near home or workplace add a bit of outdoor escape to the day’s stale coop.

One of my favorite trails runs through the Albany Pine Bush in upstate New York. With its unique environment and easy access, the Pine Bush offers a refreshing outdoor splash in a very urban area.

• The Albany Pine Bush Preserve Commission

• The Albany Pine Bush Trails

• Amazon.com: Natural History of the Albany Pine Bush A Field Guide and Trail Map

So …. what are your favorite local hiking trails. Let us know. Include:

• How you get there (walk, bike, or auto)

• How often

• Just how far away is that “local” hiking trail

• Whether you’re solo ….  or do you share the trail and time with family or friends

• What, if anything, you pack

• How spontaneous are your local hikes

Now Go Outdoors!

Since May, Homeless Gear founder Ken John has collected outdoor gear and then distributed it to the homeless throughout Colorado.

If you live in Colorado, Ken needs volunteers.

Any service organization can replicate the Homeless Gear model. It offers an immediate, hands-on way to help others in your community.

And let us know if you are starting a similar program. We’ll highlight your efforts here.

Now Go Outdoors! (And Help Someone Else Stay Warm)