"I had not been on a trail in over a month and when I passed the threshold into the meadow it was as if Mother Nature herself enveloped me and said, 'Welcome home.'"

This week I found a few bridges and a waterfall, and realized that humidity is not my friend.

I went out in search of lighthouses along the western coast of Lake Michigan and the southern coast of Lake Erie. I got to dip my toes in the unsalted water and walk right out into the lake without getting wet.

This easy, flat hike led us through the forest, across a bridge, around an island, and provided stunning views and something that looked like a giant Root Beer Float.

We meandered through this peaceful old growth forest, learned a little bit about logging in the 19th century, and made a peaceful stop in the Chapel in the Pines.

This trail starts out at 6,900 ft, and just keeps climbing. All the huffing and puffing is worth it, though, when you get to the expansive mountain view.

This super easy hike keeps you in the shade with the river rushing along beside you while you meander through the forest.

This week we explored an old cemetery, found a cove on a lake, and probably saved a woman from being eaten alive by mosquitoes.

A beautiful hike around a glassy lake with mountain views that begin before you even get out of the car.

You never know what you might run into when you're hiking in the forest at the base of a mountain.

An easy loop around majestic falls. This trail definitely ranks at the top of our list.

A place for contemplation and reflection, where everyone is welcome.

An easy hike on a rainy day where we found mossy trees, lacy lichen, grass growing in the middle of the river, and a glassy pool surrounded by silence.

Two short trails gave us stunning mountain views, beautiful spring flowers, and even took us to a little oasis with a waterfall and dragonflies!

A gorgeous hike on an old dirt road that leads to the ruins of a resort built in 1887 and a beautiful waterfall.

Not one, not two, but THREE caves, all in one hike. Oh, we also came across a smoldering fire pit and got a startling surprise in the shadowy depths.

We walked along a wooden path along a lazy river, through a forest of birch trees, and emerged in a field of gold surrounded by gorgeous mountain views.

I went to Alaska! Our first excursion had us walking on crunchy snow on the river's shore, surrounded by breathtaking mountain views.

A quick little nature hike in the middle of town showcasing a plethora of different types of cacti.

Longer than expected, this trail takes you out to the ruins of a stone home built in the early 1900s.