Hiking--more than just exercise!

Einstein said of nature, "Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better."

Most of us believe in the power of The Gym by now. We find solace in the Bowflex weights as they are always there for us, waiting patiently for hands to grab hold of them on Monday, then standby while we treadmill or elliptical on Tuesday. Ah yes, the gym is good, the gym is predictable and the gym is our friend.
But what happens when life throws inevitable chaos and stress our way? What can we do when not just our body but our soul needs some TLC? When we need a little side of rejuvenation with our k4 Vanilla Bean Shake? Well I’ve got the remedy—it’s time for a hike. Yep, hiking is so much more than just exercise, it’s a time to enjoy nature and your surroundings—to let go of stress and take in the beauty of the world in which we live. And what better time to hike than Summer in Western Washington?! We live in a spectacular area with the Cascades and Olympics offering plenty of prestine hiking trails. There are also a lot of places close to town if you’re looking for something nearby. Here are some of my favorite spots that are just a few minutes from Downtown Seattle!

Carkeek Park Located just west of Northgate, this popular park offers extraordinary views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains—with hiking trails and a beautiful beach on the Sound!

Cougar Mountain Park Cougar Mountain is a favorite trail destination, and in 2005, Trails.com ranked it 19th on the website's guide to the Top 100 trails in North America. The park's more than 36 miles of trails criss-cross the mountain and offer something for every outdoor enthusiast, from the hard-core trail runner to the family out for a short, kid-friendly hike. There are also 12 miles of trails for equestrian use.

Snoqualmie Valley Trail This 31 mile trail meanders past farms as well as preserved open space areas, and connects to the cross-state John Wayne Pioneer Trail in Iron Horse State Park.

Mount Si and Little Si Mount Si and it’s less intimidating counterpart Little Si are located in Northbend. Both hikes offer breathtaking views and different ecosystems to pass through. Mount Si is a 4,100 ft climb in 4 miles while Little Si is only 1,700 ft climb.

Not in Seattle?
Here’s an amazing list of the 100 best hikes all around the United States.
http://www.trails.com/toptrails.aspx


Here are a few things to remember when venturing out for a hike:
#1. Never hike alone
#2. Bring plenty of water
#3. Make a plan and know the trail. This means carry a map, and study the map before embarking on your hike. Know how far you’re going and what your limit is.
#4. Do not go off the trail--this is how many people get lost every year.
#5. Wear the proper clothing and equipment. Comfortable hiking shoes or boots, layered clothing and bring along a first aid kit and insect repellant.

So, I challenge you to break your routine of cardio on the elliptical machine each Saturday—get outdoors, see something new, break in those hiking boots! For more information check out Coach David’s Outdoor Adventure Group on the Community Site!
Happy Trails!