Animal Rescue Archives

Hikes and Wild Ponies at Grayson Highlands State Park

Most recently updated November 27th, 2023

Grayson Highlands State Park in Virginia is a great place to go hiking and look for wild ponies!

I was lucky enough to spend a few days there this past September.

The Park covers 4800-acres, and is adjacent to Virginia’s highest peak at an elevation of 5,729 feet, Mount Rogers.

You’ll find camping, picnicking, overnight horse stables, a visitor center, hiking trails, and access to the Appalachian Trail at Grayson Highlands.

But the ponies were the REAL attraction for me 🙂

A young pony being friendly.

The mountain balds are inhabited by a herd of ~120 ponies that run wild within the confines of the Park.

They’re not at all shy, so you get a lot of chances to see them.

These cattle were blocking the trailhead, and also adorable :) — A young pony being friendly.

The mountain balds are inhabited by a herd of ~120 ponies that run wild within the confines of the Park.

They’re not at all shy, so you get a lot of chances to see them.

Continue reading Hikes and Wild Ponies at Grayson Highlands State Park

Tour Apple Hill Farm near Grandfather Mountain!

Most recently updated July 7th, 2023

Estimated Reading Time: 13 minutes

I found Apple Hill Farm – a working Alpaca textile farm – when I was hiking out in the Grandfather Mountain area few weeks ago.

I was looking for an activity to take a break from hiking (uphill!) in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains, but was still outdoors.

Apple Hill Farm was the perfect find! It’s a working textile farm on the site of an old apple orchard that offers farm tours, and even has a fiber gift shop on site.

The farm was started in 2002 by a single Mom (and cancer survivor) with just 2 pregnant female alpacas and one young male.

Today Apple Hill Farm is home to 9 kinds of animals: alpacas, llamas, angora goats, zebu cattle, horses, pigs, donkeys, chickens, and livestock guardian dogs.

The farm site includes 15 fields, 4 barns, and a farm store on 43 acres of land.

They’re still a working textile farm, and lucky for us, they now also give visitors educational tours of the farm all year round.

Read on to learn about my tour, and how you can visit too.

Continue reading Tour Apple Hill Farm near Grandfather Mountain!

Baby Goats, Emus and Peacocks – Visit Winterpast Farm and Petting Zoo!

Most recently updated November 6th, 2022

Estimated Reading Time: 11 minutes

Winterpast Farm in Wake Forest is not your regular alfalpha and soybeans kind of farm.

And though this 10-acre family farm near Falls Lake has previously been a tobacco farm, a Christmas tree farm, and a horse farm, in it’s current incarnation Winterpast is a working animal sanctuary.

“Bedhead” the guinea pig enjoys some attention.

Winterpast provides a home for goats, sheep, emu, two mini donkeys, several types of ducklings, peacocks, a goose, pigs, lots of bunnies, hedgehogs, guinea pigs and many varieties of chickens.

And – luckily for us – Winterpast is now a place where families, students, scouts, and pretty much anyone can go to pet and play with all of the animals.

If you get really attached, you can rent a pet to take home for a week… or maybe keep fur-ever 🙂

Except maybe for the hedgehogs, because they’re hardly ever home. The hedgehogs are really popular…

These days, masks are required to visit – and never fear! There is a hand-washing facility with soap and bleach wipes available for your safety.

Anyway, if you want to visit the rest of the critters, all you have to do is look up the open hours for the week and text Farmer Mary to schedule a visit!

Continue reading Baby Goats, Emus and Peacocks – Visit Winterpast Farm and Petting Zoo!

Take a Walking Tour at White Oak Lavender Farm

Most recently updated January 18th, 2022

Estimated Reading Time: 13 minutes

Almost exactly a year ago, I spent a great week in the Shenandoah Valley, Virginia.

Gazebo surrounded by lavender plants at the White Oak Lavender Farm

Most of my time was spent hiking at beautiful Shenandoah National Park – you can read about my five days of hikes here – but I also took a break from hiking to see some other things in the area.

White Oak Lavender Farm & The Purple WOLF Vineyard is a family owned farm located in Shenandoah Valley, near Harrisonburg.

I’m an enthusiastic gardener and also enjoy a good glass of wine, so a visit to White Oak Lavender Farm was a perfect break from all of the sweaty hiking 🙂

They offer wine tastings, farm tours, lectures, classes, a petting area and a lovely lavender gift shop all in a historic setting.

They were also only a quick 20 minute scenic drive from my lodgings near the Park.

Continue reading Take a Walking Tour at White Oak Lavender Farm

Go Llama Trekking at Divine Llama Vineyards

Most recently updated January 16th, 2022

From the moment I heard the phrase “llama trekking”, I was hooked. I love to hike – and who doesn’t love a llama??

Even better, when you go llama trekking at Divine Llama Vineyards, there could be wine involved 🙂

Divine Llama Vineyards is equally famous for its wine and for the Llama Treks they host together with their neighbor, the Four Ladies & Me Farm.

I stopped by for a visit one afternoon after a day of hiking at nearby Pilot Mountain State Park. It’s so close, you can see the mountain from the vineyard, and they’ve put Pilot Mountain on their label.

The big pinnacle at Pilot Mountain State Park

Equally close by is Hanging Rock State Park – so I plan to reward myself with another visit to Divine Llama after a day of hiking there, too! Continue reading Go Llama Trekking at Divine Llama Vineyards

Outdoor Activities for Kids at M&M Alpaca Farm!

Most recently updated January 16th, 2022

A few months ago, I decided to do a tour of local farms and animal rescues that would be fun outdoor activities for kids.

I planned to visit and preview the places, then post outdoor activity ideas for families to use during their kids’ school breaks.

So, I tapped into the Facebook hive-mind for some local outdoor activity ideas.

My friends came back with all sorts of great recommendations – most having something to do with goats, llamas, and alpacas – but also a lot of breweries, wineries and meaderies. Hmmm. Anyway…

So, I trimmed out all of the adult beverages (that will be a different set of posts!) and made a list of places to go see.

For my first visit, I narrowed it down to alpaca farms near me, specifically looking for an alpaca farm tour.

And that’s how I found M&M Alpaca Farm. Although M&M offers free self-guided tours of the farm, I opted for a scheduled guided tour for just a few dollars. I’m very glad I did!

Continue reading Outdoor Activities for Kids at M&M Alpaca Farm!

Post Library

Most recently updated July 7th, 2023

LOOKING FOR SOMETHING MORE?

Click on the headings below to browse posts in I’d Rather Walk’s top categories:

Fitness & WellneSS

Info to help you get fit, eat a healthy diet, and promote wellness in your life.

ASTHMA HEALTH

This page includes posts with helpful information for active asthmatics.

GEAR Info and TIPS

Info on how to use and where to find the best gear for your day hikes, thru hikes, camping trips and other outdoor sports.

If you’re looking for gear with the IRW Logo, Holiday-themed items or something fun to give as a gift – especially our snarky T-Shirt collection – take a look at our IRW Merch Shop.

GENERAL HIKING INFO

Hiking info for families, beginning hikers and more advanced trekkers.

HIKING DESTINATIONS

Hiking destinations in the USA, Internationally, and local trails close to home.

See my Travel Resource and Adventure Travel pages for more destinations and trip planning tips and deals.

OUTDOORS WITH KIDS

Helpful tips and info for outdoor activities for kids, plus kid-friendly destinations for families and children of all ages.

All Posts

You might find what you need in the All Post Library, organized by most recent, below:

Grayson Highlands State Park is a nice smaller park with wild ponies and camping, so it's a great family vacation spot! The park has miles of hiking trails, including a portion of the Appalachian Trail, and it's just a short drive away. Read on to learn more. #Idratherwalk #Hiking

Hikes and Wild Ponies at Grayson Highlands State Park

Myrtle Beach – 5 Days of Walks and Outdoor Fun!

You're a grownup now and think you've got a handle on your asthma and allergies, when you suddenly react to something unexpected. .How can that be? What happened? The truth is that allergies and asthma, including what your triggers are, can change over time and strike without warning. Read about my nearly deadly surprise reaction, and what you cna do about yours. #Idrtherwalk #Allergies #ActiveAsthmatics

How Your Asthma and Allergies Change Over Time

I finally got to explore the Great Channels on Brumley Mountain, Virginia earlier this Fall after obsessing about it for nearly a year! The Great Channels features a maze of slot canyons similar to those you might find in the parks in Utah or Arizona. You can hike down into the Channels and also climb up top to get an amazing 360 view! Read how you can hike the Channels, too. #Idratherwalk #Hiking #OutdoorsWithKids

Hike the Great Channels on Brumley Mountain

Tour Apple Hill Farm near Grandfather Mountain!

I hiked the Flat Top Tower Trail in Moses H Cone Memorial park on the Blue Ridge Parkway this past summer. I found it by accident while hiking nearby Grandfather mountain, and I'm so glad I did! Read about the Blue Ridge Parkway, Cone Memorial Park, this hike and other local attractions, and how you can visit too. #Idratherwalk #Hiking

Hike to the Flat Top Observation Tower on the Blue Ridge Parkway

To celebrate the re-opening (and "re-imagining") of the North Carolina Museum of Art’s newly updated collection galleries, the Museum is kicking off an opening weekend October 7-October 9 with a whole host of activities each day.

Re-Imagined Galleries at the NCMA – Open Now!

The New River Gorge National Park and Preserve in West Virginia is our nation's newest National Park. For the past couple of years, I've taken short road trips to see what the new park has to offer. Read about what I found in this Visit Guide with 5 days of hikes to help plan your New River Gorge National Park outdoor adventure!

New River Gorge National Park – 5-Day Hike Guide

I made the journey to Shenandoah National Park in Virginia again this Spring, specifically to (finally!) hike Old Rag, the iconic circuit hike with a legendary scramble. While I was there, I hiked the Bearfence Scramble and Stony Man, too. Read more about my hikes and how you and your family can visit, Shenandoah National Park! #Idratherwalk #Hiking #OutdoorsWithKids

Hike Old Rag in Shenandoah National Park

North Carolina State Natural Areas can be an exciting outdoor adventure for young children, like your kids or grandkids. Mitchell Mill State Natural Area in Northern Wake County is one such very unique spot to explore. The 93-acre site is a Registered Heritage Area, and sits atop one of the largest granite domes on the east coast, called the Rolesville Batholith. Read more to learn how you can visit! #Idratherwalk #Hiking #KidsOutdoors

Explore the Rolesville Batholith at Mitchell Mill State Natural Area

The Mountains-to-Sea Trail (MST) is a trail that spans 1200 miles across North Carolina, from the Great Smoky Mountains to the Outer Banks. I've been hiking MST in Falls Lake, and Day Hike 22 is my favorite Read about how you can go, too. #Idratherwalk #Hiking

Hike the Mountains to Sea Trail at Rolling View in Falls Lake

Asthma affects your mental health as well as your physical well-being, but I've never written before about how chronic asthma makes you feel. There are a couple of aspects to how chronic illness impacts you: It affects both your emotions and how you feel physically. I'll share my experience - and of course, the latest research - here, in hopes it might help you or someone you care for! #Idratherwalk #Wellness #ActiveAsthmatics

Asthma’s Effects on Mental Health

I'm starting an 8 week hike training plan this week. I don't believe in New Year's Resolutions, but I do believe in setting goals. That's where my hike training program "8 Weeks to Awesome (Again)" comes in. Read on to learn how to build your own unique hike training plan!

8 Weeks to Awesome (Again) – Hike Training Plan

Beliveau Farm and Winery is located in the Catawba Valley of Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains, just 12mi from Blacksburg. The scenic property is home to Beliveau Farm Winery, Beliveau Farm Brewery, and The Manor House Bed and Breakfast - and is close to great Appalachian Trail hikes! Here's what you need to know. #Idratherwalk #GetOutdoors

Take a Hike Break at Beliveau Farm and Winery

This Summer I hiked the Rock Castle Gorge Trail on the Blue Ridge Parkway and found out what I was missing! Read about the Blue Ridge Parkway, this hike and other local Rocky Knob Recreation Area attractions, and how you can visit too. #Idratherwalk #Hiking

Hike the Rock Castle Gorge Trail on the Blue Ridge Parkway

Stone Mountain State Park is rugged enough to be interesting to hikers, but is also a nice smaller park with camping and other recreation options, so it's a great family vacation spot! The pike has more than 18 miles of hiking trails, and it's just a short 2.5 hour drive away. Read on to learn more. #Idratherwalk #Hiking

Hike Stone Mountain State Park

I went back to Shenandoah National Park again this Spring, to finish hiking the trails on my list - which included the Rose River Loop and Cedar Run Whiteoak Circuit! I also had a great hike break at the Barboursville Ruins and Winery. Read more about my hikes and how you can visit, too! #Idratherwalk #Hiking #OutdoorsWithKids

Hike Rose River and Cedar Run in Shenandoah National Park

If you or your children are asthmatic, you've probably spent a lot of time looking for the best medicine for your asthma. I'll tell you about the best asthma medicines available now, and the asthma medicines I've used that helped my chronic asthma. #Idratherwalk #ActiveAsthmatics #BestAsthmaMedicine

What’s the Best Medicine for Your Asthma?

Cannon's Point Preserve (CPP) is a unique 600-acre primitive greenspace at the north end of St. Simons Island, Ga. The Couper's Field out-and-back hike takes you down a pleasant dirt road or marsh trail from Taylor's Fish Camp to the ruins of the Couper Plantation at the Point. A fun and unique hike for all ages! Read more :-) #Idratherwalk

Hike Cannon’s Point Preserve on St Simon’s Island

Forest bathing, or shinrin-yoku, is a Japanese form of healing therapy. Forest bathing can be described as taking a leisurely walk through the forest for physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual benefits. You can take a walk with a guide, or you can do it on your own at home or in a park. Read to learn more! #Idratherwalk #Wellness

Forest Bathing – Walk to Improve Your Wellness

Winterpast Farm and Petting Zoo provides a home for goats (and baby goats!), sheep, emu, two mini donkeys, several types of ducklings, peacocks, a goose, pigs, lots of bunnies, hedgehogs, guinea pigs and many varieties of chickens. And - luckily for us - Winterpast a place where families, students, scouts, and pretty much anyone can go to pet and play with all of the animals. Read more about how you can visit, what other activities are available, and how you can help! #Idratherwalk.

Baby Goats, Emus and Peacocks – Visit Winterpast Farm and Petting Zoo!

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina and Tennessee is one of the largest protected areas in the United States. And if that's not enough to warrant a visit, there are 850 miles in the park for hiking, including 70 miles of the Appalachian Trail! I'll show you how I planned my GSMNP visit and which hikes I took - maybe you'll get some ideas for your next vacation! #Idratherwalk #Hiking

Great Smoky Mountains National Park – 5 Great Hikes in 4 Great Days

On the Comeback Trail – Training After An Injury

Hiking accessories are a great choice for outdoorsy gifts. But if you’re not a hiker yourself, you might not know what they could use. Read on to learn about more useful hiking do-dads you can give your outdoorsy friend or loved one without breaking the bank - and you might even find something for yourself! #Idratherwalk #GiftsForHikers #HikeGear

Hiking Accessories – Inexpensive, Fun and Useful Gifts

Foot and leg cramps can vary from just being a nuisance to being a painful and crippling experience. By finding the triggers for your cramps, and making some simple lifestyle changes, you can minimize the occurrence of foot and leg cramps and sleep undisturbed. Learn more here. #Idratherwalk #LegCramps #Wellness

Get Rid of Painful Foot and Leg Cramps

Schenck Memorial Forest is home to a hike that I call the Zombie Tunnels Trail. Just in time for Halloween, here is a turn-by-turn route description so you can take this somewhat spooky hike yourself! The hike is a combination of the Loblolly Trail in Umstead state Park, the Schenck Loblolly Trail, and Richlands Creek Greenway. It's not a technically difficult hike, but at 11ish miles for the full route, it's a pretty good distance. #Idratherwalk #HalloweenHike #HikingRaleigh

Hike to the Zombie Tunnels! – Schenck Forest’s Richland Creek Trail

Raven Rock State Park near Lillington, North Carolina, was a favorite day trip when my daughter was in grade school. There are lots of hiking trails even short enough for smaller kids, and they have great features along the way. Raven Rock, the massive stone that gives the park it's name, and two sets of rapids on the Cape Fear River are just two of the natural assets that make this park a great kids day out. Get more info for your visit here! #Idratherwalk #GetKidsOutdoors #Hiking

Have a Kids’ Day of Adventure at Raven Rock State Park

I hiked the Triple Crown this summer! It's a group of three hikes - Dragon's Tooth, McAfee Knob, and Tinker Cliffs - that can be done individually or tackled all together as a backpacking trip. This 35 mile loop contains some of the best hiking in the Roanoke Valley and some of the best overlooks in the entire state of Virginia! I'll tell you what I found on this bucket-list-worthy portion of the Appalachian Trail, and how you can do it too :-) #Idratherwalk #KidsOutdoors #Hiking

Hike Virginia’s Triple Crown – an Appalachian Trail Section

Historic Yates Mill County Park features one of the oldest buildings in Raleigh and the only remaining functioning gristmill in Wake County. There's a pond, a few shorter - mostly shady - flat hiking trails, and fishing (with a permit). If you've got grade school or younger kids, or just want an easy outdoor break, Historic Yates Mill County Park could be a wonderful hang-out for your family!

Historic Yates Mill County Park – Hike and Learn

Asthmatics have been classified as "high risk" since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, and that was a reasonable assumption. Now, after months of studying this new disease, medical and infectious disease experts have been able to create a more exact picture of the risk to asthmatics. I'm here to tell you, I've done the research, and at this point it looks like asthmatics are just like everyone else :-) #Idrtherwalk #Breathe #ActiveAsthmatics

Asthma and COVID-19: Are You at Higher Risk?

White Oak Lavender Farm & The Purple WOLF Vineyard is a family owned farm located in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley of Virginia. A visit to White Oak Lavender Farm was a perfect break from all of the sweaty hiking I was doing in nearby Shenendoah ational Park. The Farm offers wine tastings, farm tours, lectures, classes, a farm petting area and a lovely lavender gift shop all in a historic setting.They were also only a 20 minute scenic drive from my lodgings near Shenandoah National Park. Here's what you need to know for your visit!

Take a Walking Tour at White Oak Lavender Farm

Fort Macon State Park's Eliot Coues' Trail lets you hike through many diverse habitats, including the rarely-found maritime forest. The trail runs for a 3.3 mile loop through wooded forest, boardwalks through salt marsh, and peaceful natural beaches. It's a great dayhike for adults and families year-round. You can easily add on an afternoon at the beach, or spend time exploring the Fort too! Read more for details...

Fort Macon State Park – Hikes and History at the Beach

How To Stay Healthy Working from Home

It's time to get back in shape after being stuck at home for months due to COVID-19. The restrictions included closing gyms and parks, and limited outdoor exercise to only once per day. Stay at home orders have had a negative effect on many active people's fitness level. With the easing of restrictions, I'm starting a 6-Week Re-Fit Training Plan to regain what I've lost. You can do it too! #Idratherwalk #GetInShape #FitnessTraining

Get Back in Shape with a 6-Week Training Plan

We have miles and miles of local greenways available near where I live in North Carolina. Greenways are a great off-road resource for healthy outdoor family activities like bike rides, hikes and walks. Learn details of the Black Creek, White Oak Creek, Crabtree Creek, Reedy Creek and American Tobacco Trail greenways - and have fun exploring them all! #Idratherwalk #GetKidsOutside #Hike

Hike and Bike Your Local Greenways

Houseplants anHouseplants have health benefits and improve your mental and physical well-being in a host of ways you've probably never thought about. Plants can help clean the air inside your home, boost creativity, enhance your mood and create a soothing and cheerful living space. Learn how you can order plants online to pot your own houseplants or create your own indoor garden! #Idratherwalk #Wellness #CleanAir

Clean Your Indoor Air With Houseplants for National Indoor Plant Week!

The Tongariro Alpine Crossing, a 12 mile day hike on New Zealand's North Island, is one of the most popular day hikes in the country. The trail is located inside Tongariro National Park, which was made famous by it's appearance in the Lord of the Rings movie trilogy. The park's alpine, volcanic scenery is the setting of Mordor, home of Mount Doom. I hiked this trail on a trip to the North Island early this Spring. Here's how hiking the Tangeriro Alpine Crossing went for me, and some info if you want to try it for yourself! #Idratherwalk #Hiking #OutdoorActivities

Hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing – New Zealand’s Favorite Day Hike

Humans have a long history of using sunlight therapy - called "heliotherapy" today - that dates back to the ancient Greeks. If you're stuck at home, take advantage of your outdoor space - even if it's small - to sit in the sun for a few minutes each day. Better yet (if you have room) do some yoga, jump rope, or even put your stationary bike or weight rack out there...Here are some ways you can harness the power of the sun to maintain and even improve your own health - even if you can't go outdoors right now! #Idratherwalk #Wellness

Harness the Health Benefits of Sunshine

Outdoor Activity Ideas for Homeschool Kids

When you're in Tella, Spain you can enjoy the Hermitages de Tella (3 Chapels) walk which takes you to each of these beautiful Romanesque Sobrarbe gems: the chapels of Fajanillas, Saints John and Paul and La Virgen de la Peña. Our hike started outside our lodgings at Casa Ruben, and for a little ways went along the northern route of the Camino de Santiago. This is easy enough for older children, but a satisfying and scenic hike for everyone - with a lot of history thrown in!

Hike the Route of the Hermitages de Tella in Spain

First Landing State Park's Cape Henry Trail winds through many diverse habitats, including the rarely-found maritime forest. The trail runs for 6.1 miles (one way) through heavily wooded forests, paved urban segments and peaceful, quiet beaches - and is a great dayhike for adults and families year-round. You can easily add on an afternoon at the beach, too!

First Landing State Park – Hike the Cape Henry Trail

I'm starting an 8 week hiking training plan this week. I don't believe in New Year's Resolutions, but I do believe in setting goals.This year, my goals were pretty easy to define - I've planned a hiking trip to New Zealand for early Spring. So, my goal is to be strong enough to do all the hikes without any struggle. That's where my training program "8 Weeks to Awesome" - or Auckland, to be specific - comes in. Maybe you'd like to train along with me? I'll show you how!

8 Weeks to Awesome – Hiking Training Plan

Bryce Canyon National Park is just a short, hour-and-a-half drive northeast of Zion National Park, so it was good stopping place on our springtime tour of southern Utah's parks. We only spent half a day in Bryce Canyon, but it was enough time for a 3-mile hike and stops at many of the most popular view points. Here's what we did, and some other trails and park attractions we'll see on our next visit - maybe you'll get some ideas for your visit, too. #Idratherwalk #UtahHikes #FamilyAdventures

Bryce Canyon National Park Hikes and Hoodoos

Everyone loves to decorate and make their home feel festive for the winter holidays. Unfortunately, it's almost impossible to clean under or around those decorations until you take them down after New Year's Eve. The key to avoiding hosting allergens (along with your guests) is to prep your home well in advance of your first holiday event, and choose your decorations carefully. Here are some decorating tips to show you how!

How to Decorate for An Allergy-Free Holiday Season

Pullen Park, the fifth-oldest operating amusement park in the U.S., is right here in Raleigh and open all year round. With a historic carousel, a miniature train and paddle boats - plus playgrounds and a cafe, there's something for everyone! Founded in 1887, Pullen Park is also the oldest public park in North Carolina.

Have a Day Out with the Kids at Pullen Park

Asthma treatment with vitamins and supplements could reduce your asthma symptoms or prevent an attack altogether! I've had asthma my whole life, so I've had a lot of time to do the research. I'll tell you what works and doesn't work for me, and why. Maybe you'll find a new way to fight your own asthma!

Fight Asthma with Vitamins and Supplements

It's important to choose the best hiking boots for you. If your feet are wet or painful, you won't be able to think about anything else - and might not even be able to complete your hike. What you put on your feet is without a doubt your most important piece of hiking gear, so you've got to get it right! Leanr how to choose the best fit and the best boots - and buy recommended boots right from this page. #Idratherwalk #BestHikingBoots #BestHikingShoes

The Best Hiking Boots – Choose Your Perfect Fit

Shenandoah National Park, located in Virginia’s Blue Ridge mountains, has some of the best hiking in the entire mid-Atlantic region of the US! I had a great time exploring on my own, but the park hosts a variety of campgrounds, trails and attractions for everyone from expert hikers to families with small children. Read more to plan your family outdoor adventure!

Shenandoah National Park – Visit Guide and 5 Days of Hikes

The North Carolina Museum of Art Park has been a tremendous gift to the Raleigh community. The park's trails for hiking, biking and jogging, big open lawns, ponds and pools, larger than life outdoor art, plus the amphitheater and outdoor movie screen, provide a beautiful open air gathering place for everyone. Learn about outdoor activities the NCMA Park can offer for your family!

Hike, Bike or Just Relax at the North Carolina Museum of Art Park

As a hiker, you can't overestimate the value of wearing the best hiking boots you can to have an enjoyable hike and avoid possible injury. But there are other things you can do to keep your feet happy beyond simply wearing good boots! These are some of my favorite tips to avoid or eliminate foot pain and keep your feet happy, healthy and ready for any adventure!

Foot Care for Hikers – From Blisters to Boots

Divine Llama Vineyards is famous for its wine and for the Llama Treks they host together with their neighbor, the Four Ladies & Me Farm. It's a great outdoor activity for kids and adults, too! Llamas walk with you on 2.5 miles of winding creekside hiking trails at their farm. You can bring a picnic and even have a wine tasting when you're done! Even if you don't take a trek, guests re encouraged to walk the farm and meet the animals.

Go Llama Trekking at Divine Llama Vineyards

Pilot Mountain State Park is a recreational oasis for the whole family, with miles of trails, camping, climbing, canoeing, Ranger programs and spectacular scenery! I've been visiting this park for many years, first with my young daughter, and later with hiking friends or on my own. The trails and local attractions are fantastic, and the view from the mountain suummit never loses it's charm. Read here for trail recommendations, lodging and active family vacation ideas!

Pilot Mountain State Park – Hike, Climb, Paddle and Camp

The Flume Gorge natural area in New Hampshire's Franconia Notch State Park is spectacular and pictures just don’t do it justice! I went on my own, but walking the self-guided 2-mile Flume Trail through the Flume Gorge is a great way to spend some time outdoors with the whole family.

Explore the Flume Gorge in Franconia Notch State Park

The Lake Pine Trail is a 2 mile paved loop that circles 50-acre Lake Pine in Apex Community Park, located near the dividing line between the towns of Cary and Apex, North Carolina. Lake Pine is a great trail for running or walking, is smooth and wide enough to use your stroller or baby jogger, too - and is good for all skill levels. The trail runs between the lake and other natural areas, so even though you're in the middle of town, there's a good chance to see wildlife.

Run and Hike the Lake Pine Trail – Even if You Have Asthma!

Hiking with kids and fun outdoor activity ideas for the whole family are a big focus of my blog. This week's article is a guest post from Hannah Murley, who is a blogger over at OwntheYard.com, a blog that focuses on backyard games and gear. She gives us the details about how to play these 13 outdoor games for kids on the trail or in the park. #Idratherwalk #Hike #KidsOutside

Fun Outdoor Activity Ideas – 13 Trail Games to Play With Your Kids

Each Spring, we feel the need to improve our weight and fitness before we can stride out confidently in the sunshine. Fortunately, it's pretty easy to lose weight hiking and get more fit at the same time! I've made an 8 week training plan to get ready for Summer.

Lose Weight and Get Fit for Epic Hikes – Easy Training Plan

Sometimes it's hard to tell if March Madness is about pine pollen or basketball! If you have allergic asthma symptoms throughout the year (like I do), or even seasonal allergies and asthma, you can't do much about what's floating around in the air outside. What you can do is take steps to control allergens inside your home, so you can breathe and rest easier year round. Here are some tips to help you keep your indoor air allergen-free!

10 Tips to Control Indoor Allergens – and Stop the Madness!

Though Palo Duro Canyon is less than half the size of the Grand Canyon, it still offers great opportunities for the whole family for hiking, biking, horse-riding, and camping. Palo Duro Canyon State Park, the second largest canyon in the country, lies in the heart of the Texas Panhandle.

Hikes and History at Palo Duro Canyon State Park, Texas

Lake Crabtree County Park is the best in-town alternative to a trip to the beach for a quick fix of sand and time on the water. In my opinion, any park where you can take your kids to paddle or even just watch the sun on the water is a big bonus - especially when you don't have to drive more than 15-20 minutes to get there. Located in a forested area near Raleigh-Durham International Airport, Lake Crabtree County Park offers visitors a 520-acre flood-control lake adjacent to a 215-acre wooded site, with 16-plus miles of hiking and biking trails, picnic areas, boating and catch-and-release fishing.

Explore Lake Crabtree County Park – Sail, Fish, Bike, or Hike

One very simple thing you can do for your child’s health is to make sure they spend plenty of time playing outside. The JC Raulston Arboretum is full of inexpensive fun outdoor activities for toddlers. Older kids will like it, too.

Get Outdoors with Your Toddler at JC Raulston Arboretum

I'm sharing my anti-asthma diet with you! I hope it helps. My earliest memory is of being inside an oxygen tent when I was a toddler. I'm in my 50's now. Through years of research and trial and error, I've created a diet that helps me breathe easier.

Eat to Breathe Easier – What is the Best Food for Asthma?

If you're ever going to take that big hiking trip you've been dreaming about, you'll need to stash more money - or at least some money! - in your vacation saving account. Whether you're looking at a 1-2 week getaway or several months on the trail, these saving strategies add up. #vacationsaving #frugalliving #saveforatrip #idrtherwalk.com

Grow Your Vacation Saving Account – 4 Simple Steps

The M&M Alpaca Farm is a great place for family photos, or a kids outdoor activity. They can feed some alpacas and have a picnic, or take a fiber class in the studio. It's even a good place to get started on shopping for your Christmas list. I had a great visit - here's how you can get your own tour!

Outdoor Activities for Kids at M&M Alpaca Farm!

Looking for gifts for hikers or other outdoors types, but don't have the cash to spring for pricey gear and gadgets? Don't worry - sometimes the gifts they'll really appreciate are the simpler, less expensive things. I've made a short list of ten practical, inexpensive hiking items that would be welcome gifts for the outdoorsy people on your list.

10 Best Gifts For Hikers Under $50 – Last Minute Gift Ideas

Hiking the W Trek, and the whole Patagonia trip, was an unforgettable experience. Torres del Paine National Park is located on the eastern edge of the South American continent. Patagonia, Chile is at the southernmost tip, very close to Antarctica. It's a place of spectacular beauty, with dark jagged snow-topped mountains, turqouise glacier-fed lakes and rivers, and abundant wildlife. If you ever get a chance to go - you should! I've written up some helpful info and tips for your trip.

Hiking in Patagonia – The W Trek in Torres del Paine

The Prairie Ridge Ecostation is a great place for family outdoor activities, learning, and short hiking trails for kids and adults year-round. Admission is free. It's a great place for an outing in Nature with your kids, whether or not there is a special event or program going on.

Prairie Ridge EcoStation – Easy Family Hikes, Fossils and Fun!

Top 5 Gifts for Hikers – Basic Day Hike Gear

There's a thing now called "Green Exercise". I've been quietly exercising outdoors for years, and meanwhile Green Exercise has become a big thing. Experts have done studies comparing identical activities done indoors and outdoors. The research results are very interesting - and actually validate what I've experienced in my own health journey.

Green Exercise – Workout in Nature to Look and Feel Better

Kid friendly and dog friendly, you can see why Bond Park is a favorite place to go for Cary locals, and not-so-locals. Bond Park provides a natural setting that's not as untouched as the nearby Umstead Park, but the park design still highlights natural beauty over man-made additions.

Walk or Run on Stroller-Friendly Routes in Bond Park

Hiking for Beer – A 5-Step Calorie Counting Plan

Sunset over Lake Crabtree, viewed from the Black creek Greenway

Umstead State Park: Combining Trails for Longer Hikes

Easy Guidelines for Hiking to Lose Weight!

Trail Signs and Tokens – Practical and Sentimental Journeys

Arches National Park is a great place to take the whole family for an adventure they'll never forget!

Tips for Your Visit to Arches National Park

Springtime in the Desert – Utah Hiking One Week Plan

How to Plan Your Multi-Day Hiking Trip

Wild Things – A Short Hike at the Carolina Tiger Rescue

Are you training for your active retirement bucket list? If not, you should be! Sadly, when they finally have the time and freedom, some retirees no longer have the physical ability to pursue their bucket list dreams. This does NOT have to happen to you! Get a workout plan and other activity ideas that will keep you out and about in your active retirement.

How to Get Fit for Active Retirement – Your Bucket List Training Plan

Lodging Options for Unhappy Campers

Starting Small – How to Hike with Kids in Tow

Trail Etiquette – Do’s, Dont’s and My List of Peeves

It's already been a full week since I made the 30+ hour return trip back home from my multi-day hiking and camping trip in Patagonia, at Chile's famous Torres del Paine National Park. I've posted a few photos for now, and will return later with a more detailed account of the trip.

View from the Bottom of the World – Back from Patagonia

Everyone should do some research before trying a new physical activity - and prepping for a hike is no different. For asthmatics, failing to prepare properly for a hike can have results ranging from mildly unpleasant to catastrophic.

Hiking With Asthma! A 3-Step Plan for Success

Umstead State Park has been my go-to hiking place for at least the past ten years. Company Mill trail, Loblolly Trail and Sycamore Trail are the longest natural trails in the area. I hike in the forest, or with the forest as a starting place, at least twice per week. Located in Wake County, NC between Raleigh, Cary and Durham, this 5,579 acre park is at most a 15 minute drive (or a 5 mile walk) from my house.

Top 3 Reasons William B. Umstead State Park is my Favorite Forest

Hiking with other people doesn't require the same level of interaction or cooperation as other group exercise. On most hikes, people string out along the trail according to their pace and only re-group at break points. This makes group hiking uniquely appealing to people who only want minimal interaction with other people.

Why Hiking is the Best Exercise for Non-Conformists and Introverts

Hiking is the perfect exercise for ultra-busy people. Unlike the local softball league, you don't need to hang around waiting for the rest of the team to show up to get started - you just go when and where you want at your own pace for whatever time you have available. Here are some ideas about how to squeeze in some hiking time!

Simple Ways to Start Hiking – With Kids or On Your Own

To Get New Idratherwalk Posts
sent directly to your inbox (how convenient!) Click this Button

If you were inspired by this page, please share it!

Wild Things – A Short Hike at the Carolina Tiger Rescue

Most recently updated July 30th, 2023

Estimated Reading Time: 5.6 minutes

You can go visit the tigers again! — You can go visit the tigers!

Last summer I went back to visit the Carolina Tiger Rescue in Pittsboro, NC. I first visited the rescue about three years ago.

I originally heard about the organization many years ago, but life (work, childraising, etc) was more than busy enough already, so I let it go.

And then COVID limited all of our activities…

But lately, I’ve been taking another look at local volunteer opportunities – especially those dealing with animals and wildlife.

Saber Tiger and his friend greet the visitors.

The Carolina Tiger Rescue was high on my list of possibilities, and I visited their website to see what I could find.

The facility offers public tours by appointment Fri-Sun, so I reserved a ticket for one of their Friday morning tours. Continue reading Wild Things – A Short Hike at the Carolina Tiger Rescue