06/01/2024
Thought I would share my results of the 52 Hike Challenge for anyone who cares. The first year I did the challenge was 2022, and I took it pretty seriously; however, it wasn’t until 2023 that I realized that a one mile walk, whether in my own neighborhood or anywhere else counted toward the 52.
This year I spent more time than planned visiting my parents in Florida. I also don’t do much hiking in the summer in Texas, so being able to throw in some short walks in my neighborhood was a good way to get some outdoor time even when I wasn’t “hiking.” That said, I didn’t track all of those walks, especially when I was in Florida, so I did not meet the official 52 Hike number for 2023, and I’m okay with that.
I considered not doing the challenge in 2024, but then I realized I only signed up for the free challenge, so it didn’t cost me anything and it DID encourage me to get outside more often than I would have otherwise. On my first hike in 2022, I was scared even going off the paved trails at Arbor Hills in Plano and by November of that year, I hiked the Lighthouse Trail by myself. I have discovered a new passion, explored a number of State Parks and a few National Parks, and added even more to my bucket list. And just the other day, a friend said I had inspired her to do the 52 Hike Challenge. That all makes me happy, and that’s all I need.
The goal hike I’m planning for 2024 is Guadalupe Peak. But as with 2023, if the weather doesn’t cooperate or something else stands in the way, I will do it another time. There are plenty of trails to explore in GMNP and I look forward to venturing to a part of Texas that I have never been to before.
2023 Stats
Total # of tracked hikes: 46
# of State Parks hiked: 14
# of National Park, Wildlife Refuges, Conservation Areas: 4
Hidden Gem: Fort Parker SP
Most awe-inspiring: Closed Canyon (Big Bend State Park) & Valley of Fire State Park (Nevada)
Most Humbling: Cape Kiwanda Sand Dune - short but steep sand dune
Favorite Repeat Hikes: Cedar Ridge Preserve and Eagle Mountain Lake
Longest Hike: Clebune State Park, 7.9 miles
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