It’s unofficially summer—which means it’s time to leave the glow of fluorescent lights and get outside in the sunshine. For many of us, being out on the trails, on the river, or in the woods is where we experience a sense of peace, perspective, and even an encounter with God. I like to refer to a couple of hours hiking as a “soul scrub;” when I get back to my car, I just feel different. Research has also affirmed the truth that the benefits of time in the woods are not just imagined:
· Hiking can improve your short-term memory by 20%
· Spending time in the forest decreases both heart rate and cortisol (stress hormone)
· Being outside reduces inflammation in your body
· Outdoor experiences may help fight anxiety and depression
· Hiking boosts focus and creativity
The list goes on. Convincing enough?
Maybe it’s time to lace up those boots and go for an adventure! The good news is, you don’t have to venture far. Salem Fields Community Church has a “Happy Trails” hiking group you can join for a hike once a month (email kris@salemfields.com to be added to the list). And if you’re looking to venture outside either solo or with family or friends this summer, check out these four of my favorite nearby hikes:
Address: 6600 River Road, Fredericksburg VA
Open: Thursday through Monday (closed Tues-Wed); FREE
Parking: Plenty by the reservoir where fishing and boating is allowed
Bathrooms: Yes. Nature Center is also open on weekends
Stroller-friendly: No
Difficulty: Easy/Moderate (rolling hills), no obstacles
Trails: 4+ miles of hiking, 4+ miles of mountain bike
For more info: fredtrails.org
Address: Trail starts outside Virginia Outdoor Center, 3201 Fall Hill Ave, Fredericksburg VA
Open: Daily, Dawn-dusk
Parking: Park in lot or in neighborhood across from Virginia Outdoor Center, where trail access begins down the dirt road
Bathrooms: No
Stroller-friendly: No
Difficulty: Moderate (rolling hills, obstacles, roots)
Trails: 13+
For more info: fredtrails.org
Address: Old Mill Park, 2201 Caroline Street, Fredericksburg VA
Open: Daily
Parking: At Old Mill Park and at numerous access points, since trail is a loop
Bathrooms: At Old Mill Park and porta potty at mile 1.6
Stroller-friendly: Yes
Difficulty: Easy
Trails: 3.3 mile loop
For more info: fredericksburgva.gov
Address: 1617 Caledon Rd., King George, VA (Entry fee: $5 per vehicle)
Open: 8am-dusk
Parking: Yes
Bathrooms: Yes
Stroller-friendly: No
Difficulty: Easy/Moderate/Difficult (depending on the trail)
Trails: 5+ miles (many different loops to choose from)
For more info: dcr.virginia.gov
