Browsed by
Tag: 52 Hike Challenge 2026

Bluebells & Bald Eagles: My 52 Hike Challenge – April

Bluebells & Bald Eagles: My 52 Hike Challenge – April

Comments 0 Comment

April unfolded like a love letter to the outdoors—warm sun, blooming forests, and a few deeply meaningful moments that reminded me exactly why I committed to this 52-hike journey in the first place. Two hikes, both at Shenandoah River Park, each completely different in energy and emotion, yet equally memorable. One filled with the quiet awe of a forest carpeted in bluebells, the other marked by a bittersweet first—my first hike without Tigger—paired with the grandeur of spotting bald eagles…

Read More Read More

A Slow Start & a Stunning Finish: My 52 Hike Challenge – March

A Slow Start & a Stunning Finish: My 52 Hike Challenge – March

Comments 0 Comment

March has always felt like a month caught in between—winter reluctant to let go, spring not quite ready to commit. For us, that in-between energy showed up not just in the weather, but in our hiking momentum too. As proud participants in the 2026 52 Hike Challenge, we had big hopes for a strong start to the year. Instead, March greeted us with cold, gray skies, and more excuses than inspiration. Still, even slow months hold their own kind of…

Read More Read More

Snowy Trails & State Park Wins: My 52 Hike Challenge – February

Snowy Trails & State Park Wins: My 52 Hike Challenge – February

Comments 0 Comment

February is often the month that tests a hiker’s patience. Winter lingers, daylight is still limited, and the weather can swing wildly from icy gray to unexpectedly warm. This February was no exception—but it still managed to deliver meaningful miles, memorable moments, and a few milestones worth celebrating. Snow and mud slowed things down early on, but well-timed hikes and special experiences made the month feel full in all the right ways. With Tigger by my side, February became a…

Read More Read More

Snow Days & Slow Starts: My 52 Hike Challenge – January

Snow Days & Slow Starts: My 52 Hike Challenge – January

Comments 0 Comment

January 2026 showed up with a whole lot of attitude—extended brutal cold snaps, a snowstorm that dumped almost 7 inches of snow topped with a stubborn layer of ice, and trails buried under winter’s grip for what felt like forever. Instead of those crisp morning hikes I love, I found myself doing a lot of adjusting, adapting, and reminding myself that the 52 Hike Challenge isn’t about perfection. It’s about showing up, staying determined, and giving yourself grace when life…

Read More Read More

First Day Adventure 2026: LOVE, Lakes, and a Little Sunshine

First Day Adventure 2026: LOVE, Lakes, and a Little Sunshine

Comments 0 Comment

There’s something magical about starting a new year with fresh air, scenic views, and a sense of exploration. For me and my trusty sidekick, Tigger, the tradition of a First Day Hike is more than just a walk—it’s a celebration of nature, history, and the beauty of Virginia. This year, we kicked our First Day Adventure 2026 off at Lake Anna State Park, followed by a quest to discover some of the most creative LOVEwork signs scattered across charming towns…

Read More Read More

52 Hikes in 52 Weeks – Your Ultimate Adventure Challenge for 2026

52 Hikes in 52 Weeks – Your Ultimate Adventure Challenge for 2026

Comments 0 Comment

Why Take the 52 Hikes Challenge? Imagine starting 2026 with a goal that gets you outdoors, boosts your health, and fills your weekends with adventure. The 52 Hike Challenge is exactly that—a commitment to hike once a week for an entire year. It’s not just about logging miles; it’s about creating memories, discovering new trails, and reconnecting with nature. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a beginner looking for a fresh start, this challenge is your ticket to a healthier,…

Read More Read More

Virginia State Parks First Day Hike Tradition

Virginia State Parks First Day Hike Tradition

Comments 0 Comment

First Day Hike—Start the Year on the Right Foot—One Trail at a Time! There’s something magical about starting the year on a trail. Crisp winter air, the crunch of leaves underfoot, and the promise of new adventures ahead. For me, that magic began in 2018 at Shenandoah River State Park. It was my first First Day Hike, and little did I know it would spark a tradition that has shaped my New Year’s celebrations ever since. Why First Day Hikes…

Read More Read More