First 2018 Hike

  On the 1st of January the Virginia State Parks host an annual 1st of the year hike.  This was my second year participating.  I choose a different park this year because it's nice to switch it up and with 37 parks within the state it's nice to see the variety.  This year I went to First Landing State Park in Virginia Beach.

  This year despite the extremely low temperatures I made it a couple miles before I had to turn around not for a lack of trying but water flooded the trail.  Three times actually but the first one I could walk around the second  I jumped over and splashed with only one foot but, the last spot was too deep and wide.

  The hikes are offered at the parks at different times providing you the opportunity to have a guide.  The hikes offered are an hour hike or a few miles. Or of course you can choice to make your own adventure for however long you would like.

  The beauty you see when you get out in nature is immeasurable.  You get to see plants, tree, animals, bugs, and water.  My favorite is the water views.  All the parks have some sort of water source and it's always beautiful when I see it. 

  On this particular day there is not an admittance fee.  People should take advantage of this and check out the parks and trails. It's a great day for an introduction.

  Have you gotten out for a hike or stroll for leisure yet?  What do you enjoy most in nature?

A day at the Park

  Last year I visited a park where I saw a challenge to visit 5 parks to receive a annual pass to visit all the state parks.  I had so much fun at one park I wanted in on this challenge.  At my first park we went initially for fishing but then found our self exploring the park. I had no idea that one place could hold so many possibilities and beauty.  That day after our fishing, we took a hike on a trail and ventured down by the water and was met with more beauty.  This all started me wanting more.

  After the first 5 state park visits I did submit for my pass.  I received it shortly thereafter and a parking pass as well. That was all I needed to encourage me to see more.  After that I visited a couple parks here and there and just recently visited a few more this past weekend.  In case you thought state parks were boring, or there was nothing to see behold the beauty of nature!

    Parks have a variety to offer you no matter the season.  Snow sometimes adds a compliment to an already beautiful scene.  Catch a sunrise or sunset.  Most parks are open dawn till dusk.

http://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/