Hiking

Day hiking for most folks is a much needed, quick getaway from life's demands. An easy walk along a paved trail at a metro park or a 3- or 4-mile trek up a mountain and back can attract different types of hikers.

Just like your mother told you before you left the house for an evening of fun with your buddies: "Be back on time or else!" She was adamant about being on time for several reasons, primarily for your safety and for her sanity.

Regarding life in general, most of us struggle to find time to do the things we truly enjoy. Hikers of all ranges commonly wish for more trail time.

Several years ago, me, the wife and our two kids attended an organized night hike at a nearby arboretum. The kids were only in their single digit years but were no stranger to hiking. Most of their trekking miles were gained via state park trails and exploring the woods and meadows near our home.

Missouri isn't called the "Trail State" for nothing. Trails abound all across the Show Me State, but especially in the Ozarks of southern Missouri.

If you’re a hiker, you've already set yourself apart from the hoards of people that never leave the parking lot. But even among those who love to cover miles of trail there is a lot of diversity of style. Do you fit into one of these hiker sub-groups, or maybe you are a "species" we have yet to meet?

Maneuvering along a hiking trail and "in the zone" with the natural surroundings can be quickly interrupted by a small piece of trash left by humans.

When possible, one thing that hikers and adventure trekkers like to do on hikes is to incorporate interesting routes with scenic points where you can stop-and-stare. Hikes let you soak in and experience the scenes, country and waterways that you'd never see unless you walked there and looked. The great news is that America is still home of the brave and land of the many spectacular views. National parks, state and local parks, other public lands and some designated national scenic waterways can help you find solitude and memorable scenery.

When you’re hiking through the cold and snow of winter, it’s easy to remain in your summer-hiking mindset.