HAPPY TRAILS AHEAD
A GUIDE TO SAFE AND HEALTHY HIKING
Hiking is a fantastic way to move your muscles and harmonize with nature, but hitting the trails without proper preparation could put your well-being at risk. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or new to the hobby, these tips and reminders will help you enjoy a safe and memorable scenic adventure. EMBRACE YOUR BOUNDARIES. If your typical exercise regimen includes walking on paved sidewalks, it may not be a good idea to hit steep hills and unsteady surfaces on your first hiking excursion. If you’re a smoker, don’t aim to reach
keep a flashlight and whistle handy to attract attention if you require help after nightfall. If you’re tempted to dismiss that previous sentence while touching your trusty cellphone, be aware that reception may not be great in certain hiking areas — making physical maps more reliable than Google — your safety should never depend on whether you can charge your battery.
USE TICK-FREE TACTICS.
Ticks love spending time with hikers, even if they tag along without an invitation! To keep parasites at bay, always pull your socks over the edge of your pantlegs and cover any exposed skin with insect repellent. Avoid walking on the edge of trails, and check your gear regularly for unwanted guests.
exceedingly high altitudes that could challenge your lung capacity. It’s also wise to check your footwear, as those comfy sneakers you love may have worn-down soles that could make you slip on uneven and rocky terrain. Leave them home and get some dependable trail shoes or hiking boots instead.
BRING A BUDDY. Of course, hiking with a companion doubles your chances of a great trip — and having an extra pair of eyes will better identify risks as your journey unfolds. Be sure to share these tips to help your fellow trail traveler(s) enjoy great company in the great outdoors.
PACK FOR PROTECTION. Naturally, food and water are essential to a
happy hiking experience. To be on the safe side, bring along more than you plan to consume, as unexpected events — like getting lost or injured — could prolong your time in the elements. Be sure to pack a stocked first-aid kit and extra clothes, and
TAKE A BREAK
Pumpkin Pie French Toast
Inspired by AllRecipes.com
INGREDIENTS •
1 1/2 tsp vegetable oil, or as needed
• • • • •
1 tsp vanilla extract
• • • •
1/2 cup half-and-half
1/4 tsp pumpkin pie spice
1/4 cup canned pumpkin purée
1/4 cup finely chopped walnuts
3 large eggs
8 slices day-old bread
1 tsp ground cinnamon
Maple syrup, to taste
DIRECTIONS 1. Lightly oil a skillet and heat over medium heat. 2. Whisk half-and-half, pumpkin purée, eggs, cinnamon, vanilla, and pumpkin pie spice together in a bowl. Stir in walnuts until evenly distributed. 3. Place 1 slice of bread in the bowl and let it soak briefly to coat both sides. Lift bread to let excess liquid drip back into the bowl, then transfer to the hot skillet. 4. Cook for 2–3 minutes or until golden brown, then flip and cook the other side until done. 5. Stir batter to redistribute walnuts and repeat with other slices of bread, cooking in several batches if necessary. 6. Serve warm with maple syrup.
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