On Earth Day, it's totally appropriate to focus on environmentally friendly products, habits, and the like. I love new gadgets and energy-saving technology as much as the next geek. But I'd rather skip all that and go right to the pith of the day: Enjoying and exploring nature. Without experiencing the world as it is, with all its wonder and color, the message of Earth Day seems severely lacking at best.
And, in my opinion, the best way to do this is to take a hike. A good hike is the perfect weekend day trip, especially as the weather gets warmer. The trail is not just a destination, it's a classroom, an art museum, a workshop, and a playground. Showing your kids the splendor of the out-of-doors is easy when you're surrounded by it.
Most likely, there's hiking closer than you think. For example, there's excellent hiking only about 20-30 minutes northwest of New York at the Palisades Interstate Park in New Jersey. Considering the stereotypes both NYC and Jersey have, if we can find beautiful hiking, so can you.
Online, there are plenty of resources available. The National Park Service and your state park's web site has plenty of information and ideas on where to go. In addition, most states have hiking or trail clubs. These are excellent resources to tap into. Not only do they offer maps, books, and other information, they offer opportunities for group hiking, volunteer projects, activism, and more.
So this Earth Day, plant a tree, recycle, and consider planning a hiking trip with your family.
