Why hike?
The Dalton area affords many outdoor experiences including various hiking trails. There are short hikes like the paved Mill Line Trail to longer hikes, more strenuous, hikes like the 5 +/- mile round trip up to Buzzard’s Roost at Rocky Face Ridge Park. Regardless of the trail, all offer the hiker a moment to get out, relax, breathe, de-stress, think/meditate, and connect to nature – all with the added bonus of exercise. For me, to be touched by the wisp of wind, to watch the light shimmer in the stream, to hear the exchange of song among the birds, all these and more fill me with contentment.
In today’s technological world and the demands of work we have more and more found ourselves stuck in the confines of our walls or car. We are just beginning to understand the negative physical, social, and psychological impacts of too much “screen time.” The best remedy to this is to disconnect and get outdoors – take a hike. Nature also plays a role in providing valuable “ecosystem services” such as clean air and clean water. Getting out and spending time outdoors, along a trail, helps us to rediscover all the benefits our natural systems provide (and hopefully inspire us to better preserve them). Along the trail, the artist will find creative inspiration, the person of faith will find a space for worship. Learn to listen, see, smell, touch, and explore the surroundings, yet leave it as you found it for others to enjoy.
There a few quick tips before going out on a hike. First, know the difficulty of the trail. Difficulty is is based on three things: length, type of terrain, and elevation gain. Second, know your limits. If you’re a beginner, start easy and short, and build your endurance and acclimate to the weather. Third, understand trails come with physical risks. Hike cautiously and be deliberate with each step. Forth, hydrate well, snack well, and dress appropriately for the conditions. Last, always respect the trail. Hike out your trash, and leave the area better than you found it.
Happy Trails!
Tony Carlson, Avid Hiker and local Daltonian
