As the days get warmer, there is no better time to soak up sunshine. Taking a nature walk will improve your mood and provide a source of vitamin D, making it the perfect way to begin the new season. Walking is so important to mental and physical health, especially now that the weather is getting nicer.
Rachel Pangu, a teacher at Foran, shares why she loves taking nature walks: “I feel refreshed and energized and can focus more on my next tasks!”
There are many benefits to hiking and walking, and many places in Connecticut are ideal places to let off some steam and clear your mind.
Silver Sands State Park
Rated the best state park in Connecticut by Travel & Leisure, Silver Sands is located on the shoreline of Milford. It contains a 1.5-mile boardwalk that runs right along the beach. Not only does it include a shell-filled beach, but it also has historical marshland, wildlife, and dunes.
Mondo Ponds
The 1.11-mile Mondo Pond trail is located behind John F. Kennedy Elementary School. With its beautiful waterfall and a vast variety of wildlife, Mondo Pond is a great place to take a nature walk around its large pond.
Sleeping Giant State Park
Located in Hamden, CT, Sleeping Giant State Park is a highly rated park with many challenging hiking and walking trails. It’s perfect for bringing dogs, having picnics, and activities like climbing and jogging. With beautiful views, it’s ideal for a picturesque walk to clear your mind.
Naugatuck State Forest
Naugatuck State Forest is 5,000 acres spanning Oxford, Beacon Falls, Naugatuck, Bethany, Cheshire, Hamden, Seymour, and Ansonia. The forest includes grasslands, lakes, rivers, swamps, and ravines. The scenic trails attract campers, fishermen, and bikers to come to the Naugatuck State Forest to conduct many activities.
Solomon Woods
In Milford, CT, Solomon Woods is perfect for a quick and easy hike when you just want an excuse to go outdoors. It’s very secluded; you most likely won’t encounter another person on your hike. It is a very beautiful place to visit and walk at any time of year. Milford citizen Megan Laudenslager states, “You feel like you are deep in the woods, while close to home.”
Not only are nature walks a great way to see beautiful views, but they can also help with clearing your mind and be used as a stress reliever.
“I have solved some of my biggest dilemmas and written some masterpieces in my head, all while hiking or walking,” states Pangu.
When faced with a challenge, needing a stress reliever, or just wanting to enjoy the new weather, taking a nature walk is a perfect way to start this spring season.
