Calling out to all of those in Leaderland: I need to know where the great trails are located in our local community.

One of my passions prior to moving here was hiking. Living in places like Asheville N.C., Lake Tahoe and Breckenridge Colo., spoiled me a bit. There were fantastic trails just outside my door.

Leaderland does not offer that kind of hiking although I’m hoping there are some gems I haven’t yet discovered.

Hiking trails are a great amenity for our community.

For those who don’t exercise, it is suggested that even a 30-minute walk five days a week provides great benefits.

And hiking a good nature trail is great for your soul.

I’m glad I got back into the habit.

When walking along the river or in the woods my mind is cleared of the stress of the day.

The sights, smells, and beauty of nature transport me to a different world.

Give it a shot while we have good weather.

I hiked better than 10 miles over those four days off.

The Riverfront trail in Niles, Rudolphi Woods in Dowagiac and Fernwood in Buchanan have been the closest thing to getting out in nature I have found locally.

On Thursday I learned about St. Patrick’s Park on the state line.

They have a nesting osprey that was pretty awesome to see.

On Sunday I tried the Brandywine Creek Nature Trail off of 3rd in Niles Township.

Unfortunately, it was over grown and not maintained. That was a major disappointment as it is a diamond in the rough.

The sign read that Boy Scout Troop 579 maintained the trail.

I mentioned to scout leader Deb Wozniak at the Riverfest Committee meeting on Tuesday evening and I hope the Scouts will choose to clean up those briars and brambles.

We live in a beautiful area with great rivers, streams and lakes that have the potential for more variety in trails.

Do you have interest or should I just take a hike?

 

Michael Bennett is publisher of Leader Publications. He can be reached at michael.bennett@leaderpub.com