There’s a light at the end of the tunnel, but I’m sure you’d agree we’re all struggling with pandemic fatigue! If you are fortunate to live with loved ones… they are probably driving you nuts by now. This is my story, to encourage you to get outside for hike or walk if you can. It really does wonders for your body and mental health.
Force Yourself to Get Outside for COVID-Sanity!
We had been so good about getting outside regularly, for camping and hiking when the pandemic hit last Spring. But it’s like we’ve burrowed into our little nests, and gotten used to staying home all the time. Laziness. Acceptance. Probably a combination of both.
But a week or so ago, we stole my mom for an afternoon and just forced ourselves to bundle up and go take a winter hike! My dad isn’t up for hiking right now, due to lung issues. But I figured it would still be nice for both of them. As our good friend Jeanne pointed out, “That had to be good for everyone. And it gave your dad a break from working so hard to keep her in line!” lol
Winter Hike at Big Dominguez Canyon Trail
I love that there’s always a new trail to discover in Colorado, even after living here for years. Last Spring we explored more than usual, and a friend introduced me to the app AllTrails. It’s very usful, with photos, maps difficulty ratings, and the ability to search by your location for nearby trails. She also brought us to the gorgeous Big Dominguez Canyon trail that she had found via the app.
Our Golden Retriever pup “Lilo” just turned one year old. Boy does she love hiking! Doesn’t get much better than that. Except for maybe a squeeky ball and a chew bone. Nah, she’d probably still choose a hike.
The Gunnison River meanders through this gorgeous canyon. They’ve installed a pedestrian bridge so you can cross over and enjoy the beautiful BLM public land area on the other side.
We didn’t make it the full length of this 12.3 mile trail. We just enjoyed ourselves, and actually ended up turning back when I realized the sun was starting to set and it was getting colder. You know it’s a good hike when your kids don’t want to turn back!
After years of hiking, it never ceases to amaze me how I’ll always mess something up… or forget something… or time something wrong. I mean, I did bring snacks. And let’s face it – that’s really the most important thing!
But my mistake this time was that I didn’t crunch the numbers, and we got a pretty late start given our location, time of sunset, and the temperature. So we kinda closed the joint down. It got pretty chilly, and ours was the last car at the trailhead that evening.
But we also got moments like this. Grandma and grandson bonding on a sunset stroll.
So maybe I didn’t mess it up after all.
If you are in a funk, and have been inside waaaay too much lately, I highly recommond you just set a time and get out there. Better yet… bring along an older friend who could really use some outdoor COVID-safe social interaction. It was such a boost for us all.
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