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Log inColoring the joys of hiking
Coloring the joys of hiking
by Outspoken on Sun Sep 28, 2008 6:44 am
Coloring the joys of hiking
Fall treks feature cooler temperatures, fewer bugs and much emptier trails, which all enhance the views of bright foliage.
By CAREY KISH
Portland Press Herald
Labor Day has passed and summer is waning. It's time to hang up the hiking boots and prepare for winter, right? No way! The best hiking of the year is ahead.
Think about it. The bugs are gone; no more annoying black flies, mosquitoes, midges or deer flies.
The heat and humidity have been replaced by warm days, bright sun and blue skies. Nights are cool and the sleeping is comfy again.
The brilliant yellows, reds and oranges of autumn are appearing as the hardwood trees slowly turn color. And those falling leaves are revealing great views formerly hidden by summer's cloak.
And one other thing: The crowds have thinned and the trails are a whole lot emptier. It's an annual phenomenon that I've yet to understand. Maybe it's the colder temperatures, I don't know. But it means more elbow room for you and me, and that's just fine.
So, what do you need to take to the autumn trails? Not much more than the usual pack load.
A headlamp helps should you get delayed. Another layer of fleece, hat and gloves and a wind-and-waterproof shell are insurance against the variable weather.
Extra energy foods and a Thermos of hot cocoa can sure provide a boost. And with short days an early start is a must.
Where to go for a hike? There are plenty of choices, so I've selected six of my fall favorites for you. All are short, easy and within two hours of Portland. Enjoy!
Finally, a couple of useful items: The AMC Maine Mountain Guide is the definitive resource for Maine trails, and the DeLorme Maine Atlas and Gazetteer is an ever-handy road navigation companion.
http://pressherald.mainetoday.com/story.php?id=211710&ac=PHnws
Photos By Carey Kish/For the Maine Sunday Telegram
Fall treks feature cooler temperatures, fewer bugs and much emptier trails, which all enhance the views of bright foliage.
By CAREY KISH
Portland Press Herald
Labor Day has passed and summer is waning. It's time to hang up the hiking boots and prepare for winter, right? No way! The best hiking of the year is ahead.
Think about it. The bugs are gone; no more annoying black flies, mosquitoes, midges or deer flies.
The heat and humidity have been replaced by warm days, bright sun and blue skies. Nights are cool and the sleeping is comfy again.
The brilliant yellows, reds and oranges of autumn are appearing as the hardwood trees slowly turn color. And those falling leaves are revealing great views formerly hidden by summer's cloak.
And one other thing: The crowds have thinned and the trails are a whole lot emptier. It's an annual phenomenon that I've yet to understand. Maybe it's the colder temperatures, I don't know. But it means more elbow room for you and me, and that's just fine.
So, what do you need to take to the autumn trails? Not much more than the usual pack load.
A headlamp helps should you get delayed. Another layer of fleece, hat and gloves and a wind-and-waterproof shell are insurance against the variable weather.
Extra energy foods and a Thermos of hot cocoa can sure provide a boost. And with short days an early start is a must.
Where to go for a hike? There are plenty of choices, so I've selected six of my fall favorites for you. All are short, easy and within two hours of Portland. Enjoy!
Finally, a couple of useful items: The AMC Maine Mountain Guide is the definitive resource for Maine trails, and the DeLorme Maine Atlas and Gazetteer is an ever-handy road navigation companion.
http://pressherald.mainetoday.com/story.php?id=211710&ac=PHnws
Photos By Carey Kish/For the Maine Sunday Telegram
"Music is a moral law. It gives soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination, and charm and gaiety to life and to everything."
Plato (427-347 BC)
Plato (427-347 BC)
