Yesterday was Take A Hike Day. I have long enjoyed hiking but since last December this has been my favorite outlet and activity.

Feeling blue? Take a hike.
Having a good day? Take a hike.
Need some exercise? Take a hike.
Have something on your mind? Take. A. Hike. 

It’s the answer for all of life’s problems and a complement to much of the good stuff.

This summer provided ample opportunities to get out on the trail, sometimes on the weekend but frequently evenings after work. The weather this fall has been terrible and it gets dark so early now that my hiking days have been limited and I can really feel it both mentally and physically.

So I hit the trail early yesterday morning and got in four miles. It was a little muddy in places but it was a perfect hiking day. The temperature was in the low thirties, a nice day for layering, and since I love my hats and scarves I was pretty happy.

The day felt muted. There were few noises in the woods and the light was subdued, casting a grayish tone across the autumn sky. Most of the trees are bare now and the ground is carpeted with dying leaves, but those still clinging to the trees looked stunning.

I took a few pictures with my phone but they aren’t especially pretty and certainly aren’t anything to write home about. Nonetheless, I will remember it as a beautiful day.

I love getting my shoes dirty and working through my mental clutter while getting some exercise. It’s the ultimate form of multitasking.

If you’ve never hiked, you should give it a whirl. You don’t need anything but your own two legs and a sturdy pair of shoes. Take some water and a little snack. Dress for the weather. Start out with a short distance and see how you like it. You may be surprised what you get out of it.