Hiking
by Dave

Some good sources for local hiking spots are localhikes.com, trails.com (requires registration), searching online for "hiking your city", and your local visitor's center. Many times when you search online for local hiking spots you'll come across a hiking club. These are terrific resources; inquire about recommendations for what you'd like to see and suggestions for good trails at your fitness level.

Some hiking ideas:

• Trail to a remote beach, waterfall, river, or lake. Preferably one where you can swim.
• Into the mountains or hills with beautiful views of the surrounding areas.
• An area with interesting features like vegetation, wildlife, or local landmarks (old mine, ruins, caves).
• Along the ocean or lake.
• Into the desert.
• An interesting forest.
• A place with rolling green hills.
• During hot times of the year pick trails with shade.

One downside about hiking as a date idea is that when you get back to the car you're generally a little dusty, sweaty, and sticky. A tip I've learned is to put a few light towels or washcloths in the trunk along with jug of water. When the hike is over, dampen the towels and use them to wipe down your face, neck, arms, and legs. This is a refreshing way to end the hike and will make both of you much more comfortable and talkative on the drive back home.

If your plan is to hike somewhere with a bottle of wine and watch the sun set, remember that you will be returning to the car as it gets dark and to bring a flashlight. For more remote hikes, tell a friend or family member where you'll be and your planned route, and remember to check the weather forecast. Also, dogs can be fun hiking companions, but check first whether they're welcome on the trail, if there are bins to dispose of doggie waste, and remember plastic bags to clean up after your pooch. Always take out everything you bring in!

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