It’s the end of a long work week and blue skies are in the weekend forecast. One might say it’s time to get outside and play. Sounds great, but where to go and what to do? No scenic hiking trail right out your back door? No problem. There are an abundance of resources available to help with a quick search for nearby activities. Here are just a few favorites to get you started:
Sierra Club
http://www.sierraclub.org/chapters/
Here you can find your local Sierra Club chapter with information on group canoeing, kayaking, and hiking trips (with logistical info on where to meet and when, etc.). You can also find information on current legislative action on environmental issues particular to your area, and who you can contact to get involved.
Trails.com
http://www.trails.com/trails.aspx
This site allows you to search for trails around the U.S. and Canada based pretty much any way you like: by state, by activity, by type of park, etc. It’s also a fantastic resource for accessing basic topo maps to help you plan the type of hike you’d like to experience. In addition you can find plenty of information on activities near you such as camping, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and even endurance sports.
For those in the Omaha area:
Fontenelle Forest
http://www.fontenelleforest.org
For those in the Omaha, Nebraska area, the Fontenelle Forest Nature Center is a must-visit. The Center has two locations, one in Bellevue and the other in Omaha. There are 18 miles of trails open daily to both visitors and members, along with a stellar variety of programs and day-camps for kids ages Pre-K on up.
Arbor Day Farm
http://www.arbordayfarm.org
The 260 acre Arbor Day Tree Farm offers a hiking, climbing and exploring haven for families. The kids can take home their very own (free) tree from the Lied Greenhouse.
Happy trails!
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