Resolve to go Hiking!

It is so very natural to start the new year with resolutions to do better. "I'll spend more time with the family. I'll exercise more. I'll stay in budget. I'll learn something new." 

Well, the many family hikes and walks scheduled in January and February on the State Botanical Garden of Georgia's five miles of nature trails can help you with all of those resolutions. Andie Bisceglia, SBG Children’s Program Manager, has created two family series of hikes, one meeting on a Saturday morning, another exploring the garden trails in the evening.

“I really enjoy hiking and wanted to introduce area residents to the Garden's nature trails, so we created a Blue Moon hike last fall," explains Andie. "Over 60 people came to that hike. We created these series to keep the momentum going. These are more nature walks than hikes, not strenuous. The routes will change and we will stop periodically to discuss something interesting along the path. It will be a great way to be with your family, meet others, and learn about nature." Wear comfortable, warm clothing and sturdy shoes. The cost for each hike is $5/person or $15/ family. 

The Full Moon Hike Series is scheduled on the full moons: Saturday, January 26 and Monday, February 25. Participants will meet at the fountain in front of the Visitor's Center at 7:00 pm.  Each hike will focus on a different topic such as the moon, constellations, or nocturnal creatures. One thing that is surprising at night in the Garden are the many sounds of nature that fill the air. Sign up early, since space is limited to 20 on these evening hikes.

The Family Hiking Club meets on the Second Saturday of the month (January 12 and February 9) from 9:00-11:00 am. Each month will be a new adventure as participants explore the woods, streams, and gardens and learn about hibernation, bird migration, evergreen plants, and more.  In case of rain, the hiking club will meet on the following Sunday. Although you do not have to pre-register for the Saturday morning hikes, please do, because it helps Andie prepare with any handouts and plans.

 

The Tree Trail ramble is a free hike to celebrate Arbor Day on Friday, February 15 from 2:00-3:00 pm, meeting at the Shade Garden Arbor. Linda Chafin, Conservation Botanist, will lead a walk that celebrates and teaches about trees. Pre-registration is not necessary, but appreciated.

Find out more or register for any hike online at botgarden.uga.edu or by calling 706-542-6156.

Your resolutions are not only do-able, they can be fun to do. And once you walk the Garden's trails a few times with a staff member, you will be inspired to exercise and explore on our ever-changing nature trails on your schedule. Happy New Year!