As we’ve nestled comfortably into fall temperatures in Northeast Ohio, my wife and I have been making our way through many of the hikes and trails the state has to offer.
In 2023, around the time of our wedding anniversary (and her birthday), we took a trip to Hocking Hills with our youngest, Sebastian, to see the trails in that area.
That was my first real experience getting a grasp on hiking in the state and I’ve been growing more and more fond of it ever since then.
To that, we’ll be heading back to the area this year to commemorate the same events and to soak in some more of the environment.
For Marissa and I, especially this year, being on the trails together isn’t just about the movement practice (although it definitely helps). It’s about time to catch up, talk through issues we’re thinking about (personally and professionally), and to just “be” together.
I find myself keeping this practice at the forefront of a lot of my conversations lately because I drastically underestimated how beneficial it would and could be.
In a day and time where the cost of basically everything is increasing, walking nearby trails is 100% free of charge. All it costs is the gas to get to and from the location of choice.
So, if you find yourself getting stressed out about any number of things that might be bogging you down right now, I’d encourage to start hitting the trails.
Be aware that some trails have not only greater distance to cover but may have more difficult terrain, so if you struggle with ankle, knee, hip or back issues, you may want to scope out the ratings of the trail(s) before you hit them.
If you live in the general area, two trails of note that we both found surprisingly fun to cover: The Ledges at Liberty Park (in Twinsburg) and Piney Woods in Goodyear Heights (Akron.)
Many Ohio natives are not new to the game when it comes to this information, many of whom have been involved in the hiking sprees that the county offers each year.
But for me, I feel like I’m still in my infancy. It’s been arguably one of the best things I’ve done for my mental health, stress relief, relationship bonding, and just appreciating the world around me.
The latter becoming more and more of a lost art these days…
