hike17

#hike17 - Eisenhower State Park

HIKE 17

Date: Saturday, July 27, 2019

Location: Eisenhower State Park - Denison, TX

Distance: 5..12 miles

Trails: Ike’s Hike & Bike Trail

Miles from Home: 86

Weather: Hot, Sunny, Humid, Breezy

In my Quest to visit all of the state parks in Texas, I made it a point to drive up to this park on the Texas-Oklahoma border. This park is only about an hour and fifteen away from my place and it proved to be well worth the drive. The park was typical of many North Texas state parks - similar rocky terrain, similar lake views, and similar vegetation. The stand out for me, though, were the cliffs along the shoreline.

I hiked the Ike’s Hike & Bike trail which weaves through the park and takes hikers along the lake and into the woods. The trail was well-maintained, but seemingly unused for the day as there were plenty of spider webs. The trail was mostly shaded, which was helpful, and offered plenty of moments with a nice breeze from the lake. The hills were rolling and the terrain was mostly gentle.

All in all, it was a nice little evening hike along the lake - a nice break from the city. The park is located on the south side of Lake Texoma, which is quite busy in the summer months. Getting to the park is EASY, and a quick drive for everyone located in the north suburbs of DFW metro. Go check it out sometime!

#hike17 - Herman Vogler Conservation Area

Date: May 5, 2018

Location: Herman Vogler Conservation Area - Rogers City, MI

Distance: 2.75

Trails: 2 loops, part of another

The healing power of hiking is REAL.

This particular hike was one of the most therapeutic of any I've taken over the past 17 months.  I was in Northern Michigan to say goodbye to my grandfather and was fortunate enough to have the opportunity.  When it was all over, on Saturday, I had the opportunity to take a sunny hike at one of my favorite places near their home to get some fresh air.  Hiking is good for the mind, body, and soul and this short little stroll through the muddy woods was no exception.  I challenged my body with balance, cleared my head, and soothed my soul all in under three miles - mostly.

Spring came late for Northern Michigan this year, so the trails were either covered in snow, miniature ponds, or troughs of mud.  It was fun, and wet, getting through but worth it overall.  These trails were the location for hike 51 and 52 last year, just 5 short months ago.  Hiking has really been an important part in my life for clearing my head, brainstorming new ideas, and relaxing.  I wish you all happy trails and hope you can connect with nature in a beneficial way.