Embarking on a journey that offers a fresh perspective of the world around you. Hiking provides us with a unique way to explore a local trail for a quick adventure or tackling the full challenge of the Appalachian Trail with friends; it’s all about the unforgettable views and thrill of the journey.  We at The Lost Meander wanted to give you a three reasons why taking a hike is a great idea this year.

1) Taking a hike can help improves physical fitness! Hiking strengthens muscles, improves cardiovascular health, and increases stamina through varied terrain and inclines. Long or short, a great hike can get the blood flowing and the heart pumping. Plus the idea of being outside in nature is always a good thing!

2) We always talk about mental health and taking a hike is a great way to do it. Spending time in nature reduces stress, anxiety, and depression while improving mood and focus. According to researchers at Stanford University, “Being in nature can boost your mood and improve mental health.” 

3) Did you know that it can also enhance your overall well-being? Hiking promotes better sleep, helps maintain a healthy weight, and encourages mindfulness through connection with the outdoors.When you thinking about it, the calm breeze, the fresh air and a little cardio helps us relax and makes us want to get a good nap or solid sleep at night.

We know that you are excited to get out and get a good hike in this year so we spoke to friends around the country and had them tell us some of the best places to go for a hike. Here are some of the most popular destinations!

Maryland:

1. Catoctin Mountain Park (Thurmont): Scenic views, waterfalls, and a variety of trails.

2. Billy Goat Trail (Potomac): A rugged trail along the Potomac River with rock scrambling and river views.

Pennsylvania:

1. Ricketts Glen State Park: Features 22 stunning waterfalls and lush forest trails.

2. Pine Creek Gorge (PA Grand Canyon): A scenic canyon with miles of hiking trails and breathtaking overlooks.

New York:

1. Breakneck Ridge (Hudson Highlands): A challenging hike with panoramic views of the Hudson River.

2. Watkins Glen State Park: A stunning gorge with 19 waterfalls and stone staircases.

Florida:

1. Everglades National Park (Anhinga Trail): A flat, easy hike to observe wildlife and unique ecosystems.

2. Ocala National Forest: Trails through pine forests, springs, and subtropical wilderness.

California:

1. Yosemite National Park (Mist Trail): Iconic hikes with waterfalls like Vernal and Nevada Falls.

2. Runyon Canyon (Los Angeles): Urban hiking with views of the city and the Hollywood sign.

Oregon:

1. Columbia River Gorge (Eagle Creek Trail): Gorgeous waterfalls, cliffs, and lush greenery.

2. Smith Rock State Park: Scenic desert hiking with rock formations and river views.

Colorado:

1. Garden of the Gods (Colorado Springs): Unique red rock formations and easy, accessible trails.

2. Rocky Mountain National Park (Bear Lake Trail): High-altitude trails with stunning alpine scenery.

New Mexico:

1. Bandelier National Monument: Trails through ancient cliff dwellings and unique landscapes.

2. Tent Rocks National Monument: A slot canyon trail leading to striking rock formations.

So if you are looking for an adventure this year, then go out and get a good hike in! You can’t go wrong with the outdoors! If you do take a hike either on this list or somewhere else in the world, send us a message, tag us on Facebook or Instagram either #theLostMeander or @the_lost_meander . Get Lost in the World!