Get outside!

After a frantic holiday season of presents and parties and cards (oh my!), getting outside in the calm of nature is the perfect chance to reset. Think of al fresco walks, hikes and runs as self-care in its simplest form. A healthy indulgence.

In fact, new research is demonstrating that outdoor exercise offers greater mental and cognitive benefits than indoor exercise. It boosts mood, reduces stress, lowers cortisol, increases energy and even improves focus and memory. You’ll burn more calories, enjoy a boost of vitamin D and get better sleep. So, what are you waiting for?

Lucky for us, the 40 wild and scenic parks of Lake Metroparks provide 60 miles of trails that offer stunning views of ponds, waterfalls, meadows, ravines and Lake Erie shoreline.

Mimi caught up with Chief of Marketing Sharon Metzung to get the inside scoop on her five favorite hiking trails.

• Veterans Park – Cardinal Loop Trail: “Walk through some of the last remnants of original Ohio swamp forest and along the edge of Granger Pond, the largest inland lake in the county,” Sharon says.
• Chagrin River Park – Riverwood Trail: “Meander along the river and enjoy scenic views. Keep your eyes open near woodland edges for perching hawks and other raptors.”
• Pete’s Pond Preserve – Carriage Lane Trail: “The combination of forest and fresh water has created an oasis for suburban wildlife.”
• Lakeshore Reservation – All Peoples Loop Trail: “Discover a huge sundial and other sculptures on this easy trail suitable for all abilities. Check out the beach for icy snow dunes along Lake Erie.”
• Gully Brook Park – Gully Brook Valley Trail: “This trail gives a unique view into the park’s 100-year history. The young trees along Gully Brook are evidence that this land was farmed in the mid 1900s.”
• Arbor Lane Loop Trail at Chapin Forest Reservation:  “Hike under the lights. A mile of trail lights are turned on each evening from dusk until the park closes through March.”

Lake Metroparks provides more than 4 million visitors each year with educational and recreational programs and activities. For more information, visit LakeMetroparks.com.