Unplugging and Unwinding: A Journey Through Nature
This past Friday, our team embarked on an adventure that would take us off the beaten path – literally. We set out to hike a scenic four-mile loop around Canopus Lake in Clarence Fahnestock Memorial State Park, located about 50 miles north of Manhattan. While the entire Appalachian Trail spans an impressive 2,184 miles from Georgia to Maine, we opted for a more manageable trek, leaving the six-plus month journey for another time.
A Celebration of Milestones
Our hike was the perfect way to extend our first birthday celebration, trading in a day of productivity for a relaxing yet invigorating stint in the great outdoors. Our trail leader, Marc Cassone, emphasized the importance of preserving the natural beauty of the trail, encouraging us to “take only pictures, leave only footprints.” We did our best to adhere to this mantra, ensuring the trail remained serene, rugged, and free of litter.
Embracing the Trail Name Tradition
The Appalachian Trail is famous for its hikers adopting “trail names.” We couldn’t resist joining in on the fun, attempting to come up with our own monikers. I had hoped to be dubbed “Little Bear,” but instead earned the title “Riddle Master” for my ability to entertain the group with brainteasers along the way. Meanwhile, our fitness editor, Jordan, became “Mama Dragonfly” after a newborn dragonfly hatched on her backpack.
Encountering Nature’s Wonders
As we navigated the thicket of trees, rocks, and dirt, we caught glimpses of Canopus Lake in the distance. We also encountered a variety of wildlife, including frogs, snakes, and insects, although no bears to justify my desired trail name. Despite this, the experience was nothing short of magical.
Reflecting on a Year of Growth
When we reached a stunning lookout point, we took a moment to rest our tired legs, refuel with healthy snacks, and reflect on the past year. In just 365 days, we’ve covered a significant amount of ground, much like the footprints we left at the park. We’re excited to continue inspiring healthier choices, reaching new heights, and exploring the great outdoors.
Special Thanks
We’d like to extend our gratitude to Marc Cassone and Discover Outdoors, which offers a range of hiking and outdoor adventures along the East Coast. For more information, visit their website, send them an email, or follow them on Twitter.
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