Rain, Resets & Trail Goals: My 52 Hike Challenge – May
May started off with all the promise in the world—and for a brief moment, it actually delivered.
If there’s one thing I’ve learned this spring, it’s that plans can look perfect on paper and still get completely soaked in real life. But that doesn’t mean the adventure stops—it just shifts, slows down, and sometimes turns into something even better.
These hikes weren’t about distance or pace. They were about noticing the details, embracing transitions, and continuing to show up for the experience… one trail at a time.
What Is the 52 Hikes in 52 Weeks Challenge?
The idea is simple and fun: 52 hikes in 52 weeks. One hike a week, any trail, any pace and at least a mile—just intentional time outside moving your body and connecting with nature.
t’s flexible and inclusive for every lifestyle and skill level. You can hike solo, bring your family, meet up with friends, or head out with your favorite four‑legged trail buddy. Even a shorter 30–45 minute nature-focused outing counts when weather or mobility makes traditional trails tricky.
At its core, the 52 Hike Challenge is a grassroots movement that encourages people to step outside, boost their mental and physical well‑being, and reconnect with the magic of nature. January reminded me exactly why that mission means so much to me. If you’re curious what the 52 Hike Challenge looks like in my world, check out my post: 52 Hikes in 52 Weeks – Your Ultimate Adventure Challenge for 2026.
Hike 8 of 52 – Slow Trail, Fresh Air & Tigger’s Deer Dilemma
Our first outing in May took us to Somerby Woods Nature Trail, a short but sweet 1.1-mile in-and-out trail. It was one of those easy, well-maintained paths that feels more like a stroll than a workout—but honestly, those are sometimes the best kind. The path was clean, the woods were peaceful, and everything had that fresh, green feel that only early May can deliver.
About halfway in, Tigger had his first-ever encounter with a deer—and let’s just say, he wasn’t quite sure what to make of it. He froze mid-step, ears perked, head tilted like he was trying to solve a mystery. Was it a really big dog? A moving statue? A new trail supervisor? The deer, of course, gave us one quick look and bounded off, while Tigger watched in total confusion, clearly deciding it was something worth thinking about… but not chasing.
The trail also led us to a quiet overlook with a view out onto the Flat River. It was one of those unexpected little rewards that makes an easy hike feel extra special. We paused there for a bit, taking in the view while Tigger recovered from his “What just happened?” moment.
It was the kind of hike where you don’t rush, don’t check your watch, and don’t worry about distance or pace. You just walk, breathe, take in moments like a first deer sighting, and let the quiet do its thing.
This trail, part of my Pet Series and Explorer Series invited us to do a slow down and breathe in calm. Even though it was a shorter hike—just 1.1 miles—it wasn’t about distance. It was about relaxing.
Hike 9 of 52 – Easy Miles & Chill Vibes at Senoia City Park
The next day, May 5th, we headed out again to Senoia City Park for another 1.1-mile hike. It was one of those days where nothing fancy was required. No big elevation gains, no sweeping overlooks. Just simple, consistent steps forward. Parks like Senoia have a different kind of charm compared to wooded trails—more open space, more people, a little more energy—but still just as enjoyable. It felt like we were checking the box for our hiking goal while also just enjoying a casual day out.
Along the way, we had views of Marimac Lakes and The Stone Lodge, a rustic and charming cabin nestled beside the water that added a peaceful, storybook feel to the whole setting.
This was another trail that checked the box for both my Pet Series and Explorer Series challenges. It felt a little different being in a city park instead of a traditional trail, but it still had a calm, relaxing vibe that made it just as enjoyable.
Downpours & Detours – A Month That Didn’t Go as Planned
And then… the rain came.
Not just a passing shower or a quick drizzle. No, this was the kind of rain that says, “You’re done hiking for a bit—go find a cozy place and wait it out.” So that’s exactly what we did. Instead of muddy trails and soggy boots, we found ourselves stuck inside listening to the steady rhythm of rain and making the best of a change in plans.
Honestly, it wasn’t the worst thing in the world. There’s something to be said for forced downtime—especially when life has a habit of moving full speed ahead.
Back Home and Back to Reality
Once we got back home, May did what May sometimes does best—it disappeared.
Somewhere between catching up with work after being in Georgia for a week, tackling yard projects, and handling all the usual house responsibilities, the days started blurring together. Every time I thought about getting out for a hike, something else needed attention first.
You know the feeling.
“I’ll go tomorrow.”
“Maybe this weekend.”
“Once I finish this one thing…”
And then suddenly, the month is almost over and your hiking boots are looking at you like, “Remember us?”
Memorial Day Weekend… Almost
Memorial Day weekend was supposed to be the comeback.
Tigger and I had plans—plural. Multiple hikes, back-to-back days, a full-on return to our 52 Hikes momentum. It was all lined up in my head: early mornings, quiet trails, a happy dog, and that satisfying feeling of finally catching up.
But once again, the weather had other ideas.
Rain showed up, stuck around, and soaked those plans right into the ground. And while we could have tried to push through, sometimes the smarter call is knowing when to sit one out. Wet trails, muddy paths, and safety concerns just aren’t worth forcing it.
Still, I’d be lying if I said it wasn’t frustrating. May just didn’t go the way I hoped!
Lessons from the Trail – Progress Isn’t Always Linear
If May taught me anything, it’s this—progress doesn’t always look the way you expect it to.
At this point, Tigger and I are about 13 hikes behind our 52 Hikes goal.
Thirteen.
That number might feel big—and yeah, it is—but here’s the thing: it’s not impossible.
Not even close.
If anything, it just means we need to shift our approach. Instead of relying on a “one hike a week” rhythm, we start stacking hikes. Double up on weekends. Take advantage of clear weather windows. Keep things simple and consistent.
And honestly? That sounds like more fun anyway.
Because at the end of the day, this challenge was never about perfection. It was about intention. It’s about getting outdoors!
June: A Fresh Start and a Full Trail List
If May was slow, June is about to pick up the pace.
We’ve got a full lineup of hikes planned, and not just random trails—these are places we’re actually excited about exploring.
First up, Shenandoah National Park. This one comes with a bonus goal: getting Tigger his second BARK Ranger tag. If you’ve never heard of the BARK Ranger program, it’s basically the National Park Service’s way of encouraging responsible dog-friendly adventures. And yes, Tigger takes his role very seriously.
Next on the list is Shenandoah River State Park, where Tigger is aiming for BARK Ranger tag number three. At this rate, he’s building quite the collection—and I won’t be surprised if he starts expecting a display case.
We’re also planning to explore:
- Seven Bends State Park – a brand-new trail for us both
- Sky Meadows State Park – another new adventure plus BARK Ranger tag number four
- Museum of the Shenandoah Valley – something a little different with a mix of nature and history
- Shenandoah River Campus – yet another opportunity to discover something new
Each one of these places brings a new experience, a new trail, and a new chance to keep moving forward.
Why New Trails Matter
There’s something about hiking a new place that hits differently.
Familiar trails are great—they’re comfortable, predictable, and easy to fit into a routine. But new trails? They wake you up. They make you pay attention. They turn every turn into a small discovery.
For Tigger, new trails mean new scents, new sounds, and a whole world to investigate. For me, it’s a reminder that there’s always something more to explore—no matter how close to home you are.
And right now, that sense of exploration is exactly what we need.
Lace Up, Look Around, and Let’s Hit the Trail
If you’ve been waiting for the perfect moment to start your own hiking journey, this is it.
You don’t need to go far. You don’t need to go fast. You don’t even need a plan beyond showing up and taking that first step. Whether it’s a local park, a hidden trail, or a place you’ve driven past a hundred times, there’s an adventure waiting for you right there.
And who knows? You might find yourself standing in a forest full of bluebells or looking up at a bald eagle’s nest, realizing that the best moments aren’t planned—they’re discovered.
So grab your water, lace up your shoes, bring your camera (or don’t), and just go.
The trail is waiting.
Happy Hiking!
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Down Home at Dee’s
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