confusion, and clammy skin. If these symptoms set in, find shade, drink water, and try to cool down.
Trail-Ready
Know Your Level Be realistic when choosing routes, and check out the mileage, trail conditions, and elevation of any path you choose. Helpful apps include Ride with GPS for route-finding and navigation and Strava for performance-tracking and networking. As you plan, note the trail surface. Riding on gravel or dirt takes far more energy than paved trails. If you want to test your limits, do it on terrain you have traveled before. Gear Up Carry more water than you expect to need, and bring a portable water filter. Poor hydration is one of the main reasons cyclists get in trouble. Also, bring ample high-protein food, a tire patch kit, and first-aid supplies. And don’t neglect the basics: Be sure to wear a properly fitted, sturdy helmet. Don’t Go Alone Let someone know your planned route. Leave a detailed itinerary and planned check-in times with a person you trust. Carry a fully charged phone and charging device, and bring maps as digital downloads or on paper. Also, practice basic navigation skills, such as tracking the sun’s position in the sky and noting landmarks.
SAVORING NATURE SAFELY ON A BIKING ADVENTURE
Mountain biking is one of the nation’s fastest-growing sports. Drawn by its physical and mental challenges and access to nature, more than 9.2 million people participated in the sport in 2023, up 4% from 2022. Before setting out, it’s essential to realize that off-road biking can take you far from your comfort zone. Riding on rugged terrain is considered an extreme sport with a high rate of injuries, and participants tend to overestimate their skill level. Keep these tips in mind to ensure your enjoyment as a novice in this exciting sport. Be Weather-Wary Familiarize yourself with seasonal weather patterns in your area. Prepare for the possibility of extreme heat and sudden midsummer storms. Check the forecast before each outing. Heat sickness can catch you off guard, causing nausea, dizziness,
By cycling smart, you can reap the maximum benefits of one of the nation’s most exciting sports!
FAMILY FUN IN EVERY DIRECTION Summer Escapes Near Pittsburgh
Ohiopyle State Park, Fayette County, PA
Summer is a great time to be in Pittsburgh. You can take the kids for a fun-filled day at Kennywood or Sandcastle Waterpark or spend the afternoon on a river cruise or kayaking adventure on one of the city’s three rivers. Even with so much to do at home, though, it’s natural to crave a change of scenery when the heat and humidity settle in. The good news is that there are a variety of fantastic spots to visit nearby. Presque Isle State Park, Erie, PA About a two-hour drive north, Presque Isle State Park is the perfect summer destination. The park extends into Lake Erie and is known as Pennsylvania’s only “seashore.” It’s home to sandy beaches and beautiful coastlines for swimming and sunbathing. Presque Isle also features 11 miles of hiking trails, over 13 miles of biking trails, and some of the best bird-watching opportunities in the entire country. Of course, it’s also a haven for boaters. If you don’t have your own, you can rent canoes, kayaks, small motorboats, and pontoon boats at the park. After enjoying the outdoors all day, you can relax in the evening at a bayfront hotel in Erie.
Driving southwest for about 90 minutes brings you to Ohiopyle
State Park in the Laurel Highlands. This 20,500-acre park offers whitewater rafting for all experience levels on the Youghiogheny River and miles of hiking and biking trails. Cucumber Falls provides a great spot for a picnic, and the natural waterslides at Meadow Run are perfect for cooling off. When it’s time to settle in for the night, you’ll find campsites, cottages, and yurts in the park and fantastic eateries and hotels in the nearby town of Ohiopyle. Deep Creek Lake, Garrett County, MD Maryland’s Deep Creek Lake is a perfect summer retreat just over two hours south of Pittsburgh. The lake is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and watersports. On land, you can hike and bike on trails leading to waterfalls and scenic overlooks. Farmers markets, outdoor concerts, and other events are held in the area throughout the summer. There are also plenty of spots to stay for the night, including camping spots, vacation rentals, and hotels.
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