Trailing Behind…

A few weeks ago, a friend requested to have friend time on a hike, instead of a restaurant. This got us thinking about hiking, and why it’s one of our favorite past times. Hiking has had a substantial role in our friendship. There have been pleasant surprises, from breathtaking views of the ocean to running from the devil himself in the form of a black snake. We have always felt closest when we were trekking through nature, sometimes in pure silence, and most accomplished when we made it to the top of trail (especially Table Mountain, in Cape Town, South Africa. We are international y ’all).

Speaking of travel, we find hiking to be a must-do activity because it’s inexpensive and an easy way to identify what makes a place unique, and our way of feeling connected to the world beyond coffee shops and hotels. It’s even therapeutic because you literally have nowhere to go but up.  Hiking is not only good for the mind and spirit, it’s also great for the body. According to an article in FitDay, “Hiking is much more varied than many other types of exercise… Not only can your workout be different each time, depending on the trail you take, but the landscape will also change.” We also know that any increase in exercise, even something as simple walking, can have health benefits such as lower risk in cardiovascular disease, increase energy levels, and reduced insomnia.

Here are a few of our favorite hikes throughout the years:

Los Angeles, CA

Solstice Canyon

Solstice Canyon is one of our favorite places to hike. It’s an easy walk up and shaded, although you can choose harder hikes. Although the main attraction is a waterfall at this end of this trail, there is plenty of interesting things to see along the way including two homes that were destroyed by wildfires. The first is the Keller House, a stone hunting cabin built over one hundred years ago and was significantly damaged by a fire in 2007. The hike also takes you to The Robert’s Ranch house. The latter was designed by architect Paul Revere Williams in 1952.

Eaton Canyon

Eaton Canyon is one of LA’s “waterfall hikes.” Given LA’s dry conditions, you now that can be a wonder in itself. Head out for this hike after a rain and you’ll reach a 40-foot waterfall at the top of Eaton Canyon Trail, tumbling into a wide pool that you can rest alongside, wade, or have a little water fight. The waist-deep water attracts hundreds of hikers in bathing suits, so this is one you want to get to early to really enjoy. The hike itself is long and dry, but it’s pretty cool to see, once you make it through. Oh, remember the devil snake? He founds us here, so be mindful of the wildlife.

Wisdom Tree

Like Eaton Canyon, there is a definite goal at the end of this trail. Nestled in the heart of the Hollywood Hills, this trail is a little more rugged and involves a lot more climbing. But the view at the top is totally worth it. You’ll know you made it when you find the stand alone tree, known as the Wisdom Tree to some and the Giving Tree to others, and are surrounded by the breathtaking views of LA. On a clear day, you see clear across the city line to the ocean. You also want to have good shoes for this one, as some of the rocks can be a little slippery.

Portland, OR

 Forest Park

Easily one the most beautiful hikes to date. Portland is known for its lush greenery, due to the months of rain so this hike doesn’t disappoint. There are varied trails ranging from easy to hard, and if that’s not enough to get you out, there is a cute tavern, called the Skyline Bar and Grill at the most northern part of the trail.

Cape Town, South Africa

Table Mountain

Hiking Table Mountain was one of the highlights of our Travel Noire experience. In 2012, Table Mountain was inaugurated as one of the world’s New 7 Wonders of Nature and is one of the oldest mountains in the world. The hike to the top is tough. There is no other way to put it. It takes between 90 minutes to 3 hours to reach the top, but it is extremely rewarding There is no way to put words to the stunning views or the sense of pride you feel after reaching the top.

Memphis, TN

There is so much more to Memphis than meets the eye. And the best part of it all, you really have to ask someone who knows Memphis to begin to scratch the surface of all its hidden gems. Namely, it is an outdoors town. So, that even leaves room for some good hiking options and trails.

Red Trail

Located in the Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park, the Red Trail is the most challenging and only a 20-minute drive outside of Memphis-proper. A “hilly” three-mile loop, it is great training for mountain runs, and just steep enough to get your heart rate up even when walking. The trailhead is a short walk from the visitors center. We hear there is an amazing Grilled Cheese sandwich that is a must-try at the nearby General Store. How quaint!!

Shelby Farms

You can’t mention Memphis without mentioning Shelby Farms. It may not be a “hiking” location per se, but if you want to hit the trails, it’s top of the list. The Lucius Burch Natural Area trailhead is located just south of the Agricenter off Germantown Rd and Wolf River. It ends at the Walnut Grove bridge over the Wolf River. There are three intersecting trails (yellow, blue, and white trail) that are great for running, walking, and biking. You’ll see people of all ages out there enjoying the eight mile loop, so this one is great for beginners.