I've always enjoyed the outdoors, but now more than ever because I'm finally getting in shape. I moved to Louisiana from Florida last spring, and while I really dislike Shreveport, I was excited to find out that I'm just a short trip to some pretty mountainous land.
Especially now that the seasons are changing, my boyfriend and I drive up to the Ouachitas or Ozarks at least once a month for some hiking. This past weekend I did my hardest hike yet, a 4.5 miler that the guidebooks called "strenuous." We completed it in 4 hours and felt amazing afterwards. I couldn't believe I finished it! We had a few opportunities to take access roads out, but I made a commitment to myself that I would hike the entire thing, and I'm so glad I did.
When I got home that night and entered my exercise in to Fitday, I was pleasantly surprised to see that 4 hours of hiking burns about 1500 calories. That just sweetened the pot--I would have enjoyed it regardless of the calories I burned.
Anyway, I wanted to share my excitement with all of you and encourage the more outdoorsy chicks to try it if you don't already. Trails.com is a great resource for finding trails near you of all skill levels. Just remember to budget your time wisely so you're finished before dusk and bring plenty of water and a light snack.
Happy hiking!
