Forest bathing is a wonderful practice that costs absolutely nothing but your own time and attention. Isn’t that incredible? The benefits are potentially immense. To give you a head start on what this practice is… and how to try it, we’ve condensed a very informative Time Magazine article below. When you are ready to give it a shot, check out the trail list for a new, quiet spot to explore. There are over 170+ trails listed for the South Shore. What is Forest Bathing In Japan, we practice something called forest bathing, or shinrin-yoku. Shinrin in Japanese means “forest,” and yoku means “bath.” So shinrin-yoku means bathing in the forest atmosphere, or taking in the forest through our senses. This is not exercise, or hiking, or jogging. It is simply being in nature, connecting with it through our...
Each day that we get outside is a good day in our book – but sometimes it’s a fun reminder to think of why we are thankful for the beautiful South Shore. FYI – We’ve rather intentionally left some of the most popular spots off our list like World’s End, Whitney Thayer, Two Mile Farm and Norris Reservation. They are all incredible spots (!!!) but… the parking lots are always full and there is more to explore on the South Shore. (1) Spots with places for kids to run Regardless of the season, sometimes kids just need to burn off some energy. You don’t need a big trail complex just enough open space and clear trails. Just make sure to check for ticks after. Daniel Webster Aubuchon (Marshfield) Ames Nowell...
Are you looking for a way to engage the whole family? Or just challenge yourself on a hike? You should check out the South Shore Quest! The South Shore Quest is an annual challenge to “encourage exploration of the outdoors through the use of CLUE-directed walks through local public lands and parks”. The organization was formed in 1998 and has been delivering fun ever since. Update: Historically, the quest books have been for sale for $5 at local retailers. Given the pandemic, they are posting the book for free online but asking for donations via this link. We love their enthusiasm and dedication to the cause. Consider donating via this link. The Idea Questing is an ideal activity for small groups and families, as well as individuals. By turning a...
We know that during these challenging times, everyone wants to get outside and recharge. One challenge we all face right now is how to enjoy the outdoors responsibly during this civil state of emergency related to COVID. Fresh air is great for everyone, but it is important that we stay safe and take care of nature. Here are a few tips on how you can get some fresh air while being smart, staying safe, and sticking close to home. Note: Some organizations have chosen to close their properties during this time of uncertainty. Please respect these closures and find a new place to explore. We have nearly 200 trails and spots listed in our database… only a fraction of them are closed. Find a new favorite 🙂 Please check their...
Birdwatching is a great activity for people looking to take in the great outdoors. It is an activity you can do in your own back yard, a local trail, or anywhere you travel. Pretty great right? Plus birdwatching is an activity you can keep doing all your life, in any part of the world. Birdwatching is the fastest-growing outdoor activity in America. According to a survey by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 51.3 million Americans report that they watch birds. And more are taking it up all the time. How can I learn more about birdwatching? Join a local bird club and go for a walk with other birdwatchers. Get your hands on a good bird book Most important, start noticing the birds around you. Why birds? Historically, birds...
In the market for an affordable gift? We can help. We've hand picked an assortment of gifts for every type of outdoors person in your life. The kayaker. The trail lover. The bird watcher. And all the other ways we love to enjoy the great outdoors. Gifts are a way to show you know what makes someone tick ... and also that you care about their interests. So whether they like to unplug, explore the water, or take care of their blisters... we've got you covered. click the logo to shop! For the trails It's important to be prepared for the outdoors and this can go beyond wearing the right shoes. Stay hydrated, keep warm, and have fun. wool socks / hand warmers / bandaids / ice tracks / waterproof...
Hunting Season Hiking Tips We love to spend all the seasons exploring our trails - but need to be extra vigilant during hunting season. With the right precautions, there is no reason to not enjoy your favorite trails during your local hunting season. We've pulled together some tips for staying safe while you are on the trails. (1) WEAR BLAZE ORANGE Wear a fluorescent or "blaze" orange hat and vest (and pack cover if backpacking), or hooded outerwear when hiking in fall, winter or spring. Blaze orange will help distinguish you from wild game. If you hike with a dog, it should also wear blaze orange visible from all sides. We recommend that pets be leashed at all times while hiking. See more recommendations (2) KNOW BEFORE YOU GO Know...
Have you heard of geocaching? If not, we are here to help. Geocaching is an outdoor activity that prompts participants to use GPS to find containers, called “geocaches”, at specific locations marked by coordinates all over the world. Exciting right? A typical cache is a small waterproof container containing a logbook and sometimes a pen or pencil. The geocacher signs the log and then the cache is placed back exactly where it was found. HOW One of the best parts about Geocaching is how easy it is - and free! All you need is enthusiasm and a smartphone. If you don’t have a smartphone, you can also look all the caches up in advance on the Geocaching.com website. WHERE There are so many caches along the South Shore! If you...
We combed the internet, talked to the community, and built these lists to help you enjoy the outdoors. Do you have an idea for list? Talk to us. The Benefits of Forest Bathing Forest bathing is a wonderful practice that costs absolutely nothing but your own time and attention. Isn’t that incredible? The benefits are potentially immense. To give you a head start on what this practice is… and how to try it, we’ve condensed a very informative Time Magazine article below. When you are ready to give it a shot, check out the trail list for a new, quiet spot to explore. There are over 170+ trails listed for the South Shore. What is Forest Bathing In Japan, we practice something called forest bathing, … Thankful for the Beautiful South Shore Each...
In the market for an affordable gift? We can help. We've hand picked an assortment of gifts for every type of outdoors person in your life. The kayaker. The trail lover. The bird watcher. And all the other ways we love to enjoy the great outdoors. Gifts are a way to show you know what makes someone tick ... and also that you care about their interests. So whether they like to unplug, explore the water, or take care of their blisters... we've got you covered. For the trails It's important to be prepared for the outdoors and this can go beyond wearing the right shoes. Stay hydrated, keep warm, and have fun. wool socks / hand warmers / bandaids / ice tracks / waterproof notebook / whistle / water...
