Looking for some free and low-cost ways your family can get a healthy dose of fun this summer while staying close to home? You’re in the perfect place – North Carolina! We are fortunate to have so many recreational opportunities and resources in our backyard. In this article I wrote for Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina, see a sampling of places across the state to give you ideas Continue Reading
Favorite places for a beautiful walk in Orange County, North Carolina
Being out in nature is great for your health, both physically and mentally. Here are some of my favorite beautiful places in the Hillsborough and Chapel Hill area to enjoy a scenic walk. All of them have free admission and are open year-round. Occoneechee Mountain State Natural Area – This scenic trail goes through the woods, along the peaceful Eno River, and up to the overlook where you’ll Continue Reading
A beautiful fall hike at Eno River State Park
Today I had the pleasure of leading a ladies hike at Eno River State Park, on a gorgeous early November day. We've had a lot of rain lately, but fortunately the weather was perfect. Crystal blue skies, colorful leaves and crisp temperatures...it was the kind of hike I dream about all year. This idea was born because of the great time we had on the National Trails Day Hike in June. We really Continue Reading
10 awesome hikes in the Triangle
Here are some of my favorite beautiful places in North Carolina's Triangle area to enjoy a healthy walk. All of them have free admission and are open year-round. Wake County William B. Umstead State Park – There’s something for everyone at this expansive park. It offers 22 miles of hiking trails, including equestrian and mountain biking. Trailheads on both sides of the park—accessible from Continue Reading
Photo tour: A gorgeous spring walk at Duke Gardens
On a lovely mid-April Saturday, I went to one of the best places in this part of North Carolina for a beautiful spring walk: Sarah P. Duke Gardens. Located on the campus of Duke University in Durham, this gorgeous facility boasts 55 acres, and five miles of walking paths on a varied terrain. The Gardens are comprised of four sections: Historic Gardens, Doris Duke Center and Gardens, H.L. Continue Reading
Tranquility in 30 minutes: A quick forest hike at Eno River State Park
The Japanese have a term, Shinrin-yoku, that means “forest bathing” — a visit to the forest for relaxation, a chance to stroll through nature and take in the atmosphere for one’s well-being. Walking in the forest is refreshing for your body and soul. On an early morning in late October, my son and I took a walk at Eno River State Park. We didn't have much time, because he had an Continue Reading