Getting There

Getting There
            Kirby Cove. Point Reyes. Yosemite. For years, I felt these might remain unchecked highlights on my destination wish-list. Why? Simply because I hadn’t visited them before. Unfamiliarity can morph into mental and logistical blocks.
            Getting to those places—the closest less than half an hour from my house, and the farthest four hours away—really wasn’t that hard. A map, gas in the car, and the determination to get there were the key necessities, and I was so happy I overcame my internal resistance to finally visit.
            Recently, another family with an autistic son offered to lead a hike in the East Bay, my nearby “can’t get there” nemesis. Though my habitual groan of, “I don’t want to get stuck in traffic trying to get across the Bay Bridge” had emerged, we set our alarms early and found ourselves easily breezing across the bridge and arriving at the trailhead with time to spare.
            Not only was the drive easier than expected, but we walked a trail with beautiful views, and noticed side trails we want to explore on our next visit.
            Pushing ourselves slightly out of our comfort zones can open up a world of opportunity. When you get up to get out, remember to try someplace new once in a while. Keep putting one foot forward!
            This week’s Hike Notes, Inspiration Point-Nimitz Way Hike, brings readers to an easy in-and-out hike along the paved Nimitz Trail with scenic reservoir and bay views.
            Click Insights/Hike Update News for inspiring reflections. Browse hikes on the main Hikes page or on the Hike Search by Area (was Quick View Hike List) page. Click World Walks to see or share favorite family-friendly walks! Stay in touch with Lisa Louis and HikingAutism via Contact. The Links page lists a loose collection of helpful information links.
            Check the Home page for the broader background story. If you’re not able to take one of these Northern California hikes, hopefully you can enjoy the photo galleries at the bottom of each hike page! Please feel free to share, and follow on Twitter at @HikingAutism
New this week:
Hike Notes 157: Inspiration Point-Nimitz Way Hike