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#WeLoveExploring was designed to find like minded individuals that love to Explore, nature and life overall. We want to find other explorers that desire to travel the world and Explore. From hiking, biking, camping, Paddling, Climbing, Snow sports or just a stroll in a new city or country and much more.
Google Maps
Google Maps while
many may use Google Maps for getting driving directions, some may not know that
Google Maps also provides trail information. You may even be able to see photos
from ground level along a new trail. What’s even cooler, is that you can switch
views between regular maps, Terrain (topographic), and Satellite.
Researching the trail
Do a little
research before you try a new trail. It can't hurt, and it might save you some
discomfort. Is the trail a real
butt-kicker that you might not be ready for? Then again, is it mostly flat
terrain and not challenging enough for you? Is there a hidden waterfall halfway
into the loop? Does it get super hot during the day, with no shade? Are the
mosquitoes rampant during April?
How to pick a hiking trail
As a federal
taxpayer, you own some extraordinary land, so consider a visit if you live near
a national park, national forest, national landscape, national heritage area,
national wildlife refuge or a national wild and scenic river. And you've done a
good job over the years as a state taxpayer, too, preserving some extraordinary
state parks, so don't forget to check with your state's wildlife conservation,
parks and historic preservation departments for ideas. Of course, your local
tax dollars have helped counties, cities and towns preserve some significant
parcels, so don't forget them, either.
Talk to
Others. There will always be gems hidden from view. Books devoted to trails and history of the
region can help you identify them. Outdoor writers for local publications may
be able to help. Hiking clubs and their members are usually more than willing
to share expertise. One good way to discover a new trail is to start with what
you know: You're bound to run into someone out there who's been somewhere you
haven't!
Choose one
that is right for your ability. That means if you haven't exercised for a
while, start light and gradually work your way up to more strenuous hikes. A great place to start is a hiking trail
without any big changes in elevation, like a flat trail around a pond or along
a shoreline.
Choose a
route that is right for the time you have. You don't want to get caught halfway
out to your destination at dusk (unless you're planning to camp). If you're not
sure, figure about a mile for every hour on average. Hiking takes longer than
walking on flat pavement, plus the views inspire you to stop more frequently.
If you have from eight in the morning until noon, then check your trail map and
figure about three to four miles. If the trail is not a loop, figure 1.5 to 2
miles, since you will need to backtrack to the trailhead. Any more than that
would be pushing it. If you want you can just go by hours. If you only have 3 hours. Start hiking 1.5 hours in. Then stop and hike back 1.5 hours out.
Explore your
own backyard. You may be surprised by what hiking spots are available within a
few miles of your home. Local hiking trails are a great option, even if they
aren't world-famous treks. Why? For one,
they give you a way to hike on a regular basis. Wouldn't it be great to hike
every day after work and de-stress a little, or at least every weekend? I
relish the days when I can sneak in a lunch-hour hike in the middle of my work
day! Another good reason to hike locally is that you will become more connected
to your home and the local ecosystem. Whether it is your intention or not, you
start to feel more grounded, attached, and appreciative of the place you call
home. This may seem obvious, but for the happiness of all people (or animals)
in your group, choose trails that are fun for everybody. http://www.nps.gov/findapark/index.htm or Join a group www.welove2hike.com http://www.meetup.com/www-welove2hike-com/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/We-Love-2-Hike/239053089460710?ref=hl Happy Hiking!!!
Do Your Part
DO YOUR PART
Do your part by modeling appropriate behavior, leaving the area better than you found it, properly disposing of waste, minimizing the use of fire, avoiding the spread of invasive species and restoring degraded areas.
- Carry a trash bag and pick up litter left by others.
- Pack out what you pack in.
- Repackage snacks and food in baggies. This reduces weight and the amount of trash to carry out.
- In areas without toilets, use a portable waste bag if possible and pack out your waste, otherwise, it’s necessary to bury your waste. Human waste should be disposed of in a shallow hole (6”-8” deep) at least 200 feet from water sources, campsites or trails. Cover and disguise the hole with natural materials. It is recommended to pack out your toilet paper. High-use areas may have other restrictions so check with a land manager.
- Take a small bag and pack out your pet’s waste, especially in front country areas or if it is left on or near trails or trailhead areas.
- Before and after a hike, wash your gear and support vehicle to reduce the spread of invasive species.
- Build a trail community. Get to know other types of recreationists that share your favorite trail.
How to Hike to Tone My Butt...
How to Hike to Tone My Butt...
The gluteal group, which includes the gluteus maximus, gluteus minimus and gluteus medius, makes up the butt muscles. The gluteus maximus is the largest of the three, the closest to the surface and contributes the most to the shape and tone of your behind. The gluteus maximus, as well as the other gluteal muscles, extend your leg backward and laterally, and stabilize the hip. Exercises, such as hiking, that create these motions strengthen and tone your butt.
Step 1
Climb uphill to work the gluteus maximus. Hill-climbing uses the same motion as squats and lunges, and the added intensity also raises your heart rate. Look for hilly trails or areas with stairs or natural rock formations suitable for climbing.
Step 2
Do walking lunges for the gluteus maximus. Widen your stride to one leg length, bend your front knee and lower your back knee to within an inch of the ground. Push off with your back foot and bring it forward to meet your front foot. Repeat the same motion with your opposite foot. Use walking poles for balance and keep your front knee lined up over your front ankle.
Step 3
Lateral-walk to work the gluteus minimus and gluteus medius muscles. Lengthen your stride to slightly longer than normal. As you step forward, swing your leg out to the side and plant your foot on the ground. Bend your front knee, push off and bring your other foot up to meet your forward foot. Step out to the other side.
Step 4
Carry extra weight. The more weight you carry, the harder your lower-body muscles, including your gluteals, have to work. Carry a backpack with extra water bottles for added weight. Do not add more than 10 pounds to your pack, however, to avoid fatigue and muscle strain.
Raven Cliff Falls
Raven Cliff Falls, Campout and Hike. (1 night only)
Saturday, December 8, 2012 3:00 PM
Raven Cliff Falls $30 per person, guide fee only. (Kids Free)
for more info: welove2hike@gmail.com
Saturday, December 8, 2012 3:00 PM
Raven Cliff Falls $30 per person, guide fee only. (Kids Free)
for more info: welove2hike@gmail.com
Hiking Clothes
Hiking can be enjoyable and invigorating in any season if you are well prepared and dress properly. Wearing layers of comfortable clothing is appropriate in nearly all weather conditions, making it easy to adjust to temperature variations and unexpected inclement weather.
Shop for
Products http://www.cafepress.com/welove2hikecom
Losing the trail.
Losing the trail can easily occur, even with the experienced hiker. Contributing
factors include:
· A rocky or sandy area (the trail is hard to see; it takes a sharp turn but you forge straight ahead)
· Following a false trail made by other lost souls
· Mistaking a drainage ditch at a switchback for the real trail
· Snow on the trail
· Detouring around windfalls (downed trees) or around a bad stream crossing
· An inadequate map
· Out after dark with/without a light
· Going off trail to find a photo op
· Deliberately trying for a shortcut (shortcut a switchback, only to have the trail turn the other way).
· A rocky or sandy area (the trail is hard to see; it takes a sharp turn but you forge straight ahead)
· Following a false trail made by other lost souls
· Mistaking a drainage ditch at a switchback for the real trail
· Snow on the trail
· Detouring around windfalls (downed trees) or around a bad stream crossing
· An inadequate map
· Out after dark with/without a light
· Going off trail to find a photo op
· Deliberately trying for a shortcut (shortcut a switchback, only to have the trail turn the other way).
Great inns open only to those with good hiking shoes
Hike 'inn' to your hotel.
Tired of cruise ship pollution, frozen airplane food, or hours of driving in a gas-guzzler to reach your favorite vacation spot? Why not try a weekend getaway that not only provides relaxation but also encourages a healthy and sustainable lifestyle? Get back in touch with Mother Nature while traversing the great North American national parks and resting your head in one of the several lodges that can only be reached by foot (or in some cases, by bike, ski or horse).
Len Foote Hike Inn
Inca Trail, Peru
This 33km (20mi) ancient trail was laid by the Incas and is currently traversed by thousands each year. The trail leads from the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu winding its way up and down and around the mountains, taking thr...
This 33km (20mi) ancient trail was laid by the Incas and is currently traversed by thousands each year. The trail leads from the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu winding its way up and down and around the mountains, taking thr...
ee high passes en route. Views of white-tipped mountains and high cloud forest combine with the magic of walking from one cliff-hugging ruin to the next – understandably making this South America’s most famous trail.
Night HIkes
Exploring in the Dark: Safety Tips for Night HIkes
When you go hiking at night you enter a whole new world. You hear new sounds and see new things out and about that you may not have encountered before. If you thought safety was important when you go hiking during the day, nighttime hikes need to be focuses on safety even more. Here are some practical tips for hiking at night.
1. First you need to find out if night hikes are even allowed where you want to go. Dedicated wilderness areas should be fine (i.e. where camping is allowed). Many public-owned parks and facilities will have daylight hours only. You will need to thoroughly research the place you are going before you decide to hiking at night.
2. Go in a group. Never hike alone at night as there are too many safety risks. Take at least one person with you but a group of three should be the minimum. I say three because it takes two people to carry one other person effectively for long distances should someone get hurt. Further, you can send one person to get help while the other stays with the injured person.
3. Flashlights are a must even if the moon is full. Take two sets of spare batteries and make sure the flashlight works before you leave your house. You don't have to take ultra-bright flashlights with huge lantern batteries as they will wear out your hand. Make sure you take plenty of extra batteries.
4. Check the weather before you go and dress appropriately. If it is winter time the temperatures may plunge at night. If the temps are cold dress in layers and shed the outer ones if you get hot.
5. Food and water are necessities even if it is cooler at night. Pack out your trash and eat trail food that is quick and simple. Animals will be out at night and can smell food easily so you want to keep the snack simple and eat it expediently so as to give any wild animals less of a chance to smell it and think you're holding their dinner.
6. Take a map with you and if you are savvy take a compass as well. Stay on marked trails and know where you are going and how long it should take you. Allow a little extra time for hiking at night since humans don't see well at night and it probably would take longer to walk.
7. OR, Pay to go with a group. http://www.meetup.com/www-welove2hike-com/
By going on a hiking trail Day or Night with “We Love 2 Hike” you won’t have to worry about maps or mental assumption.
When you go hiking at night you enter a whole new world. You hear new sounds and see new things out and about that you may not have encountered before. If you thought safety was important when you go hiking during the day, nighttime hikes need to be focuses on safety even more. Here are some practical tips for hiking at night.
1. First you need to find out if night hikes are even allowed where you want to go. Dedicated wilderness areas should be fine (i.e. where camping is allowed). Many public-owned parks and facilities will have daylight hours only. You will need to thoroughly research the place you are going before you decide to hiking at night.
2. Go in a group. Never hike alone at night as there are too many safety risks. Take at least one person with you but a group of three should be the minimum. I say three because it takes two people to carry one other person effectively for long distances should someone get hurt. Further, you can send one person to get help while the other stays with the injured person.
3. Flashlights are a must even if the moon is full. Take two sets of spare batteries and make sure the flashlight works before you leave your house. You don't have to take ultra-bright flashlights with huge lantern batteries as they will wear out your hand. Make sure you take plenty of extra batteries.
4. Check the weather before you go and dress appropriately. If it is winter time the temperatures may plunge at night. If the temps are cold dress in layers and shed the outer ones if you get hot.
5. Food and water are necessities even if it is cooler at night. Pack out your trash and eat trail food that is quick and simple. Animals will be out at night and can smell food easily so you want to keep the snack simple and eat it expediently so as to give any wild animals less of a chance to smell it and think you're holding their dinner.
6. Take a map with you and if you are savvy take a compass as well. Stay on marked trails and know where you are going and how long it should take you. Allow a little extra time for hiking at night since humans don't see well at night and it probably would take longer to walk.
7. OR, Pay to go with a group. http://www.meetup.com/www-welove2hike-com/
By going on a hiking trail Day or Night with “We Love 2 Hike” you won’t have to worry about maps or mental assumption.
Don't Backpack Alone
Don't backpack alone,
is the prevailing advice
from backpacking books and government agencies. They say the risk is too great
if you were injured or got lost with no one to go for help.
And they are right - the risk is there, and a person backpacking alone has a responsiblity to be very careful to avoid trouble.
But I think that something is lost in all this good advice. The hard fact is that good sense and good health may delay the inevitable, but will not change the fact that our lives our short and not one of us will ultimately survive.
The problem as I see it is not how best to avoid death, but how to live well. For some that means backpacking into wilderness alone.
Time by one's self is underated as a quality for a healthy individual. In solitude you learn plenty about yourself and can discover a strength you were unaware of. Solitude can cause a turn in your philosophy towards a belief in the divinity in the universe. Going alone in wilderness seems to facilitate these changes, since you are away from the busy activity and diverting gadgets that fill a normal life.
Standing before the beauty of a mountain wilderness in solitude can make one feel as if they have stepped through the door of heaven and now have the opportunity to walk within it.
Solitude and lonliness are not the same thing - The beauty and peace and power of a wilderness is such that what you witness in nature in one day is life-filling, and the emptiness that characterizes lonliness drifts away.
The response of an individual to wild nature is much like that of music, or art - everyone is affected by it differently.
Or if Solitude is not your thing, come hike with Us. www.WeLoveExploring.com
And they are right - the risk is there, and a person backpacking alone has a responsiblity to be very careful to avoid trouble.
But I think that something is lost in all this good advice. The hard fact is that good sense and good health may delay the inevitable, but will not change the fact that our lives our short and not one of us will ultimately survive.
The problem as I see it is not how best to avoid death, but how to live well. For some that means backpacking into wilderness alone.
Time by one's self is underated as a quality for a healthy individual. In solitude you learn plenty about yourself and can discover a strength you were unaware of. Solitude can cause a turn in your philosophy towards a belief in the divinity in the universe. Going alone in wilderness seems to facilitate these changes, since you are away from the busy activity and diverting gadgets that fill a normal life.
Standing before the beauty of a mountain wilderness in solitude can make one feel as if they have stepped through the door of heaven and now have the opportunity to walk within it.
Solitude and lonliness are not the same thing -
Solitude and lonliness are not the same thing - The beauty and peace and power of a wilderness is such that what you witness in nature in one day is life-filling, and the emptiness that characterizes lonliness drifts away.
The response of an individual to wild nature is much like that of music, or art - everyone is affected by it differently.
Or if Solitude is not your thing, come hike with Us. www.WeLoveExploring.com
How to Fit a Week's Gear into a Weekend Pack. Don't own a massive pack for your big annual adventure? Here's how to make it all fit.
Use compression sacks for sleeping bags and puffy clothing.
2: Eliminate spare clothing and socks to gain space for food and fuel.
3: Use a tarp, and bug net if needed, rather than a full tent with poles.
4: Use a half-length sleeping pad that goes from shoulder to hips. Your pack can go beneath your lower legs.
5: Sample sized items and small zip-locks save weight and bulk.
6: Repackage your food, and deflate puffy freeze-dried packages with a pin. Tape over the hole after flattening.
7: Strap heavy items outside the pack on top and sides, to keep weight high and close to your spine.
8: Light items like clothing and pads go on the pack front.
9: Water and fuel bottles can go outside the pack, but don't let them swing around; it steals energy from every stride.
10: Make full use of hipbelt pockets and accessory pouches to gain space.
11: SLR cameras can stay in a chest holster, for more room - and better photos.
And now you're ready to go!
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Solo Hiking
Start Smart: Hiking Solo
For most people, hiking is like fine dining: It's a pleasure best enjoyed in good company. But if you crave the singular adventure of hiking alone-the sense of absolute solitude and self-reliance, the mental challenge, and the silence--safety becomes a paramount concern.
Know Yourself
Be realistic about your abilities. Stay within comfortable limits for mileage, elevation gain, navigational challenges, and technical skills. This is not the time to experiment with off-trail navigation or exposed scrambling. It doesn't have to be hairball to be enjoyable.
Hike In Familiar Conditions
Know the environment you are entering, its hazards, and how to travel safely through it. Don't make your first multiday winter trip or your first dry, desert trek a solo affair; build up a solid base of experience with partners like http://www.meetup.com/www-welove2hike-com/ before attempting an ambitious trip alone.
Pack Wisely
Whether you're an expert or a novice, going alone invites greater risk: HELP is not guaranteed. Decide what to bring--like a sleeping bag on a long dayhike--by weighing the consequences of not having it against the burden of carrying too much. Extra food, water, and a signaling device (a whistle, signal mirror, or cell phone) are musts.
Make Conservative Decisions
Before taking even routine risks (like crossing a moderately challenging stream), evaluate the potential dangers. Never rule out an alternative route or simply retreating. As they say, pride goeth before a fall.
Leave Word
Give your itinerary--including alternative, emergency routes--to someone who knows what to do if you don't return on time, but who won't panic and report you missing if you're only a few hours late.
For most people, hiking is like fine dining: It's a pleasure best enjoyed in good company. But if you crave the singular adventure of hiking alone-the sense of absolute solitude and self-reliance, the mental challenge, and the silence--safety becomes a paramount concern.Know Yourself
Be realistic about your abilities. Stay within comfortable limits for mileage, elevation gain, navigational challenges, and technical skills. This is not the time to experiment with off-trail navigation or exposed scrambling. It doesn't have to be hairball to be enjoyable.
Hike In Familiar Conditions
Know the environment you are entering, its hazards, and how to travel safely through it. Don't make your first multiday winter trip or your first dry, desert trek a solo affair; build up a solid base of experience with partners like http://www.meetup.com/www-welove2hike-com/ before attempting an ambitious trip alone.
Pack Wisely
Whether you're an expert or a novice, going alone invites greater risk: HELP is not guaranteed. Decide what to bring--like a sleeping bag on a long dayhike--by weighing the consequences of not having it against the burden of carrying too much. Extra food, water, and a signaling device (a whistle, signal mirror, or cell phone) are musts.
Make Conservative Decisions
Before taking even routine risks (like crossing a moderately challenging stream), evaluate the potential dangers. Never rule out an alternative route or simply retreating. As they say, pride goeth before a fall.
Leave Word
Give your itinerary--including alternative, emergency routes--to someone who knows what to do if you don't return on time, but who won't panic and report you missing if you're only a few hours late.
Meet other local hiking
enthusiasts. All those who are dedicated to hiking excursions near and far, with
a focus on leaving no trace of litter on our lands! Most of our hikes are
intermediate level and above. If you enjoy a challenging hike with friendly
social people, please join us!
http://www.meetup.com/www-welove2hike-com/
http://www.meetup.com/www-welove2hike-com/
Like most of us I work a lot and needed to break out of the everyday rut for some fresh air. But being a woman I was hesitant to roam alone that’s why I’m so glad that I discovered welove2hike.com. Now in my spare time I can get that much needed fresh air, without compromising safety, and each hike is an opportunity not just to explore but to enjoy the company of other like-minded people. But don’t take my word for it…..get out there and try it for yourself!! See you in the great outdoors! Welove2hike.com “Where other lovers of the outdoors can meet, play and of course, Hike!"
http://www.meetup.com/www-welove2hike-com/
WWW.WELOVE2HIKE.COM
http://www.meetup.com/www-welove2hike-com/
WWW.WELOVE2HIKE.COM
Hiking Poles
How to Choose Trekking Poles (and Hiking Staffs)
Trekking poles have become standard equipment for many hikers,
trekkers, backpackers and snowshoers. The reasons why are simple: They enhance
your stability and support on all types of terrain. When shopping for trekking
poles, your key considerations should be weight, price, shock absorption, shaft
construction and the type of grip. Here's how to choose.
http://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/trekking-poles-hiking-staffs.html
http://www.meetup.com/www-welove2hike-com/
http://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/trekking-poles-hiking-staffs.html
http://www.meetup.com/www-welove2hike-com/
How do you overcome a fear of hiking?
Start small. Remember that hiking is
basically going for a walk. It doesn't have to be over rough or difficult
terrain. Start with established trails and learn to notice the beauty that is
around you. Eventually, curiousity will overcome fear and make you want to see
"what's over there". Or, Go with friends!
Join a group http://www.meetup.com/www-welove2hike-com/ Bring
the things you need -- water, food, a jacket, sunscreen, hat, water, etc. Hope this helps.
Welove2hike.com
“Where other lovers of the outdoors can meet, play and of course Hike!
How to Choose Hiking Boots
R. E. I
How to Choose Hiking Boots
Choosing the right hiking boots is a process of savvy matchmaking. Your dream hiking boots will:
How to Choose Hiking Boots
Choosing the right hiking boots is a process of savvy matchmaking. Your dream hiking boots will:
Match your hiking ambitions. Beefy backpacking boots, for example, are usually not necessary if all you are planning are day hikes—unless a backpacking boot offers you the most comfort.
Comfortably fit your feet. Ensuring a good fit is the key part of the boot-selection process. The years of REI footwear-fitting knowledge outlined in this article will help you select the right boots.
Class 1-5
Hiking
difficulty ratings. Got class? Now you do! Class 1 - 5
In many of the hiking and climbing articles here on welove2hike.com, you may read about “Class.” Class is used to describe the level of difficulty encountered on any given trail or mountain. But what does “Class 2″ hiking really mean? I thought it was time for a breakdown, as many novice hikers and scramblers may not be 100% sure of the rating system. Read on, and find out just how easy or hard these Classes really are. Check out the Class. http://welove2hike.blogspot.com/p/hiking-difficulty-ratings.html
Kennesaw Mountain Hike.
Kennesaw Mountain Hike. (52 hikers)
www.welove2hike.com
Karen
Jennifer
Fun group of people. Wonderful hike leaders. Look forward to more hikes with the group!
Nikki
Really nice hike and great friendly people. Looking forward to more hikes.
Chaintelle
www.welove2hike.com
Isaiah
Excellent. My first outing with the group was very
enjoyable. Our leader did an excellent job. The weather cooperated and we had a
great day.
Karen
Great experience, with a great group of people!
Jennifer
Fun group of people. Wonderful hike leaders. Look forward to more hikes with the group!
Nikki
Really nice hike and great friendly people. Looking forward to more hikes.
Chaintelle
"Thanks to Reginald for ensuring the slower ones (myself)
were never left behind. I will definately attend more hikes with this group!!!"
It was a challenging hike. I enjoyed the mixture of hills along with flat/loop.
Reginald Mitchell
Hippie Hole
I took a
long drive to Hippie Hole at Little River Canyon in Alabama. Although it was a long drive it was a straight
shot from Atlanta and once we got there all the “are we there yet’s”, from me,
were worth it, LOL.
When I arrived
I spoke with one of the volunteers at the trail. She told me about the different look out points
and the water falls of “Hippie Hole” and “High Rock”. As I thought about the given name of the area
it made me wonder what they are really doing at Little River Canyon. LOL… 
The hike to the water fall was short and sweet, but I must say that the swimming was great! The temperature of the water was not as cold as you would expect from a river, which was a pleasant surprise. There were about 50 hikers and I think I can speak for everyone when I say we had a nice time… Oh, make sure you bring a lunch and water shoes.
I can’t wait to go again! I’ll make sure that I’m able to stay a little longer to simply relax and enjoy the falls and river. www.welove2hike.com
Age 4
Saturday,
July 28, 2012, the hike at Kennesaw Mountain was really eye opening. We had a hiker with the group that was only 4
years old. She may have been the youngest
hiker of the day, but I promise you she was one of the best.
Prior
to the hike her mom and I were talking back and forth via e-mail about if it
would be okay for a 4 year old to go on the hike. The mom was trying to convince me that she didn’t
want to go because she thought her daughter would slow the group down. But of course I convinced her that she wouldn’t
slow us down. Well, the truth is that
yes a four year old will slow us down and that’s ok, because if she was willing
then so was I. My motto is “no
person left behind” not even if they are four.
Needless
to say that little 4 year old completed the whole 1800 feet of climbing and did
not complain once during the 3 hours it took from start to finish. A good number of adults stopped and turned
back, which is understandable because it happens. However, this hike confirmed my other motto
again, “You’re never too old or young to hike”.
This
picture is of the youngest and the oldest on the hike...
I truly enjoy hiking Kennesaw Mountain and I love introducing people to the wonder of the outdoors for the first time!
Reginald Mitchell
Raven Cliff Falls
Raven
Cliff Falls
About
four months ago I decided that I wanted to hike Raven Cliff Falls in the North
Georgia Mountains and for one reason or another it just didn’t happen. Now after what seems like forever I finally
had the chance to hike Raven Cliff.
Once I
decided to continue driving to the trail I said goodbye to some fellow
hikers. But before I could actually
leave the hikers took the time to tell me about all the great trails they have
hiked at Raven Cliff Falls. As I resumed
driving I just couldn’t resist the views!
I found myself stopping at multiple rest stops to take in the view and
snap some pictures to capture this incredible setting. That’s the real reason it took 3 hours to get
there, all the stopping! After a little
more ‘slow driving’ I saw the signs that let me know I had arrived at the trail
head… at last, Raven Cliff Falls.
As I
performed a final check of my gear, food, and water I noticed that the parking
lot seemed pretty empty, which gave me the indication that it wouldn’t be very
crowded on the trail. That put an even
bigger smile on my face.
Okay, so
I’m ready to start my hike but I was a little apprehensive because I am alone
and I had never been to this trail before and I knew I was in bear country. But just as it goes, I received a sign right
at the start of the trail. As I headed on
to the trail a little boy about age 7 came running out with flip flops on
smiling and laughing with his dad saying how much fun he had. Right then and there I knew I would be ok.
The trail
I was hiking would lead me to the falls and along the way I saw mushrooms on
the side of trees, moss on the side of rocks, art work made of rock by fellow
hikers in the streams, and the rock formations in the appearance of art maid by
Mother Nature. It was spectacular! While crossing small bridges and streams I
listened to nothing but nature and I found myself falling deep into a
trance. I was awake and alert though,
but every now and then I found myself looking up and around to make sure
nothing was watching me, LOL. As I
continued along the trail about 20 minutes I noticed the sound started to
change in the distance. At this point I felt
a change in the temperature. It was
cooler on the mountain than it was in the city and it was even cooler from the
trail to the point where I was under a canopy of the imposing trees. The sound accompanied with the cool breeze of
the shade was astounding.
I pushed forward and came across the first water fall. Stopping a brief moment, I took it all in and hydrated my body. After another mile and I came upon the big water fall. I had finally made it to the Raven Cliff water fall. Just as I approached the fall a runner runs past me and I yelled at him, “STOP”! I wanted him to stop to make sure I should not be running as well… Don’t get me wrong I “Love 2 Hike”, but I also love my life, LOL. After the runner stopped I asked, “Where are you running to or from? Are we at the end of the trail”? The runner said, “No Sir! You are at the end of the trail but not the journey. Follow me”. We hiked up about 30 more feet and arrived at the climax. It was exactly what I came for. The sight was beyond amazing so I stopped and had my lunch.
The view was extraordinary with trees to my rear, rocks to my left and right, and one of the most spectacular water falls Georgia has to offer directly in front of me. At that moment I felt I could venture out and hike forever! Raven Cliff Falls was one of the best hikes I had been on in months. The brake from the city and the heat was well worth it. Well, until next time… www.welove2hike.com
Hiking trails are known by many families including mine to be a breath taking experience to connect you with nature. When I went hiking I was taken by the most beautiful landscapes I have ever seen. I know from experience that seeing nature in that way is a must see for every family.
Picture yourself walking through the beautiful woods. The sound of birds chirping, grasshoppers jumping, and fro...gs croaking fill the air! The smell of nature and beauty take over your senses! The relaxing interaction with nature is something the whole family will enjoy.
You might be thinking, “What if I get lost in the woods?” or “This sounds good for me but what about my children?” Well "We Love 2 Hike” has the perfect solution. They have guides that are professional and can lead you through any hiking trail!
By going on a hiking trail with “We Love 2 Hike” you won’t have to worry about maps or mental assumption. See you on the trail soon.
Picture yourself walking through the beautiful woods. The sound of birds chirping, grasshoppers jumping, and fro...gs croaking fill the air! The smell of nature and beauty take over your senses! The relaxing interaction with nature is something the whole family will enjoy.
You might be thinking, “What if I get lost in the woods?” or “This sounds good for me but what about my children?” Well "We Love 2 Hike” has the perfect solution. They have guides that are professional and can lead you through any hiking trail!
By going on a hiking trail with “We Love 2 Hike” you won’t have to worry about maps or mental assumption. See you on the trail soon.
Reginald Mitchell
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