Short and Sweet

Short and Sweet
            “Take a look at the map so I’m not the only one who knows our route,” I tell my older son and husband when we’re off for a longer, more challenging hike with our severely autistic son.
            “Does everybody have water, snacks and a jacket just in case?”
            An hour’s drive later, we’re at the trailhead for a destination hike that’s been on our wish list for ages. Everyone had better be revved up for the long hike at this point.
            Steep inclines, slippery rock sections, lots of gorgeous scenery, and several miles later, we’re feeling a combination of gratification, tiredness, and remembering it’s an hour drive to get home again.
            Finishing a long, challenging hike is satisfying, but sometimes, we just want a quick and easy outing.
            Short trails can pack plenty of stunning scenery. Having the trailhead close to home is another plus. An easy walk means we don’t have to put a lot of effort into preparation.
            Short and sweet doesn’t always mean totally easy, though. On a recent outing to check out the short South Rodeo Beach Trail in the Marin Headlands, we found that the 0.2 miles downhill to reach the beach was a whole lot easier than the 0.2 miles uphill return.
            When time and/or energy are limited, a short, simple excursion can be as wonderful as a more challenging one. The same goes for other aspects of life. A hot cup of tea in a quiet moment looking out a back window can be just as reenergizing as an elaborate meal at a restaurant. The flower we discover along the sidewalk on a neighborhood walk can be just as breathtaking as an ornate display at a formal garden.
            May we all enjoy simple moments as well as big iconic events, and keep putting one foot forward.
            This week’s Hike Notes, South Rodeo Beach Trail, takes readers on a very short but satisfying walk in the Marin Headlands.
            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.
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New this week:
Hike Notes 145: South Rodeo Beach Trail