veterans. In addition, every national park is part of the collective identity that defines who we are and where we came from as a nation. They are tactile reminders of the values, the ideals, and the freedoms that our veterans protect.

If you’re looking for a new place to hike and/or an opportunity for a fun road trip before the snow flies this season, you can enjoy FREE admission to all of the USA’s national parks in honor of Veterans Day. Park properties also include monuments, lakeshores, seashores, and recreation areas. That's a lot of scenic places to enjoy the great outdoors, so don't forget your hiking gaiters!

Out of the 423 units in the National Park Service, only 108 parks regularly charge an entrance fee, but if you want to visit a popular park for free that normally does charge, now is your chance. The fee waiver includes entrance fees, but not charges for reservations, camping, tours, concessions and fees collected by third parties. Once you arrive, make your first stop the park visitor center to pick up maps and guides and for the latest information on everything from road conditions and ranger programs to hiking trails and campgrounds.
 
As you might expect, millions of people visit national parks each year, and especially in 2021 now that folks are traveling again following Covid-19 lockdowns and closures. If you’re looking for travel ideas (or want to avoid crowds), these are the top 10 most visited national parks as of 2020:

    1.    Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee/North Carolina
    2.    Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming/Montana/Idaho
    3.    Zion National Park, Utah
    4.    Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
    5.    Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
    6.    Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
    7.    Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio
    8.    Acadia National Park, Maine
    9.    Olympic National Park, Washington
    10.    Joshua Tree National Park, California

America’s national parks have something for everyone— 84+ million acres of spectacular scenery, historic landmarks, and cultural treasures. Take a break and experience some place new, watch wildlife (but watch for snakes!), enjoy some fresh air, and get a little exercise. And, since admission is FREE to all 423 park properties on November 11, 2021, now is a great time to get up, get out, and explore while saving money.

Please know that as of this writing, masks are required in all national park service buildings and on all forms of enclosed public transportation, regardless of location or vaccination status. Keep in mind that a  Razer Neck Gaiter makes for a cool and useful face covering.

Because of the strong interest in getting away from it all, campground reservations have been hard to come by, especially at established sites in national parks and state parks. It’s much easier to find a remote spot in the middle of the woods if you’re completely self-sufficient, but not everyone wants to give up a restroom, water, and cell service.  No matter what appeals most to you— bare-bones car cmping or for-pay campgrounds with amenities and services— autumn is a quieter time to enjoy the great outdoors. If you weren’t able to find a campsite this summer, the fall season could provide a respite with fewer crowds. Camping in the fall is great way to extend your outdoor adventures into the cooler months, while enjoying some gorgeous fall scenery.  

The key to camping when the weather might be less predictable, is having the right equipment and being prepared.

• Always check the forecast ahead of time specific to the parks or campgrounds you plan to visit. Remember that warm weather can turn quickly. Depending on where you’re going, you should always be prepared for all kinds of weather. 

• Buy a good three-season tent. You’ll want one that has a full rain fly to keep moisture out. Always bring a tarp or tent footprint to place underneath your tent to protect from moisture seeping in. Also, consider bringing an extra tarp to set up over the top of your rainfly.

• Bring a sleeping bag that protects against temperatures lower than you expect. There's nothing worse than freezing through the night. Mummy sleeping bags are best for keeping you warm because they cling closer to your body. Most of them come with a hood that surrounds your head to capture heat that would otherwise escape. A sleeping pad is critical to insulating your body from the cold earth. Get a good closed-cell pad and double it up with another foam pad if needed. In terms of heat retention, this is one of the most important things you can do to stay warm at night.

• Layering is the key to staying comfortable while camping in fall. You’ll want to start with a base layer, such as wicking thermal underwear to keep moisture away from your skin. Then add a layer for warmth, and finally a breathable, windproof outer layer to keep heat from escaping. Wool, fleece and synthetic materials will help keep you warm and dry. Avoid cotton clothing. Always change out of wet clothing as quickly as possible. Bring extra clothing, footgear and mittens, so that you always have dry back-ups. You might also consider a pair of winter gaiters to keep the rain or snow out of your boots or off your lower legs.

• Cooking times are longer in low temperatures, so leave more time for cooking. Along with longer cooking times, you’ll need more fuel than you would in summer. Easy-to-prepare or one-pot meals are ideal. So are hot beverages to sip on throughout the day. Keep yourself well hydrated and nourished as this will help your body stay strong against the elements.

• Wildlife are often engaged in fall mating rituals, so be careful to respect their space. Some animals can be more aggressive as winter nears, so beware of bee hives and be sure to eliminate trash from your campsite to avoid attracting bears and other animals. As always, never leave food in your tent. Use a bear can, hang your food from a tree, or put it in the trunk of your car at night. Keep in mind that in some areas, rattlesnakes can be active well into November if the weather stays mild, so remember your snake gaiters.

• If you visit a backcountry area, bring a GPS device, compass and/or map.  And b sure to notify friends and park officials where you plan to go and when you plan to return.
A little nervous about fall camping? Don't fret. With a little extra preparation, you can secure plenty more time to make memories well into the autumn season.

Out of the 423 units in the National Park Service, only 108 parks regularly charge an entrance fee (ranging from $5 to $35 per vehicle), but if you want to visit a popular park for free that normally does charge, now is your chance. The fee waiver includes entrance fees, but not charges for reservations, camping, tours, concessions and fees collected by third parties. Once you arrive, make your first stop the park visitor center to pick up maps and guides and for the latest information on everything from road conditions and ranger programs to hiking trails and campgrounds.
 
If your summer plans are already committed, there will be two more opportunities to get free admission to national parks this year:
 
September 25: National Public Lands Day
National Public Lands Day is the nation's largest hands-on volunteer effort to improve America's public lands. NPLD began in 1994 with three federal agencies and 700 volunteers. Since then thousands have volunteered to lend a hand across the nation.
 
November 11: Veterans Day
Veterans Day was originally known as Armistice Day, marking the anniversary of the ending of World War I at the eleventh hour, on the eleventh day, of the eleventh month in 1918. On June 1, 1954, the name of the holiday was changed to Veterans Day to honor those who died in all American wars.
 
 
As you might expect, millions of people visit national parks each year, and especially in 2021 now that folks are traveling again following Covid-19 lockdowns and closures. If you’re looking for travel ideas (or want to avoid crowds), these are the top 10 most visited national parks as of 2020:

1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee/North Carolina
2. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming/Montana/Idaho
3. Zion National Park, Utah
4. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
5. Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
6. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
7. Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio
8. Acadia National Park, Maine
9. Olympic National Park, Washington 
10. Joshua Tree National Park, California

The Fremont People farmed corn, beans, and squash in addition to following a mostly hunter/gatherer lifestyle. They often occupied their dwelling sites for only part of a year, following the mule deer, bighorn sheep, and water sources as necessary. As you view the different human-like figures, animal-like figures, and abstract designs, you’ll notice that a “Classic Vernal Style” predominates in Dinosaur National Monument. Human figures typically have trapezoidal bodies, often with elaborate decorations such as headdresses, earrings, necklaces, and shields. The animal figures include recognizable bighorn sheep, birds, snakes, and lizards. Purely abstract or geometric designs also are common. If you decide to do much hiking in the back country, know that the only poisonous snake found in the monument is the midget-faded rattlesnake, a subspecies of the western rattlesnake, so wearing snake gaiters is a good idea.  Many plants, including cactus, greasewood, Russian thistle, and others can scratch, stick, or otherwise be dangerous, so regular hiking gaiters are also a good option to protect your lower legs.
 
Of course the million-dollar question is what do the glyphs mean? Many theories exist as to their original significance and purpose, but no one really knows for sure. Some believe the images are important battle records or calendars, or perhaps directions to water or food sources. Others dismiss them as the prehistoric equivalent to graffiti. We may never know the meaning of the glyphs with any certainty, but everyone can agree that these rare images are special and should be protected. Please do not touch!  For more information, visit the Dinosaur National Monument website.

No matter where you go, make sure to check local conditions and weather forecasts before your hike. Do not assume that weather and trail conditions will be OK or easy. Think conservatively and make sure you will be hiking in conditions comfortable for you. Summer and early fall are generally the best time to hike in the mountains  because winter snow can bury most higher elevation trails from around October into early July. Temperatures and trail conditions in low-lying areas are most pleasant in spring and fall. To conserve your energy and be more comfortable, avoid the hottest time of day if you can— usually 11 am to 3 p.m. Always let someone know where you are going and when you expect to be back. Remember that cell phone service may not be available in back country areas.

Gather Supplies and  Proper Equipment. When considering what to stuff into your day pack, let common sense be your guide and include at least these 10 essentials: map, compass, flashlight, knife, water, food, clothing, first aid kit, matches/firestarter, sunglasses. Carry your things in a  pack that fits you well and watch the amount of weight in the bag to avoid back, shoulder or neck strain.  Be sure to wear comfortable socks and shoes that you’ve already worn a few times to avoid any lower extremity aches, pains and blisters. Trekking poles might be helpful for hiking on rocky trails. Hiking gaiters can keep your pant legs dry and free from briars and thorns. If you’ll be in snake country, snake gaiters can help provide protection and peace of mind. Keep lower legs warmer and dry with fleece-lined snow gaiters if you're hiking in wintery conditions. Don’t forget water for your furry friend if you bring them along. Although trails might seem to be dog friendly, check local regulations to be sure, and always carry a leash.

Listen to Your Body.  Stay hydrated and take breaks. Remember to progress your activity levels safely and appropriately to avoid any “weekend warrior” injuries. There’s plenty of spring/summer time to start off with easier trails and work your way up.  Also take along a sense of humor and a positive attitude. That way if you hike doesn’t go as planned, you’ll keep your sanity until the situation improves. Remaining calm and level headed is important in a serious situation and being able to laugh it off later is just as important.

Hiking is an activity that can be done year round. Deciding what season and time of day is best for you to go hiking will totally be up to you, your schedule, and simply what sort of climate and terrain you would like to hike in. Once you have decided and prepared, go for it!  Take advantage of  all that the great outdoors has to offer. Have fun!

Keep in mind that snakes of many species are done hunkering down now that the weather is warmer, making human encounters more likely with ALL types of snakes. You might even see snakes in more northern areas where you’ve not seen them before. “It may have something to do with climate change,” says a wildlife ecologist.  “There has been a lot of range expansions of a lot of animals and plants with climate change, and if that continues, they may end up moving north.” 

To avoid accidental encounters with snakes, watch where you place your hands and feet when roaming fields and woodlands, especially in rocky areas. Most bites occur by accidentally stepping on or near a snake and startling it.  Wear snake gaiters to protect your lower legs. Poisonous pit vipers such as copperheads and rattlesnakes have triangular heads, vertical pupils, and prominent heat-sensing pits between the eyes and nostrils. These characteristics can be difficult to see from a distance, but don’t take a chance — keep your distance.  If the snake is within five to six feet of you, make slow movements and move in the opposite direction of the snake. Though copperheads are more common and widespread than rattlesnakes, their bite is much less dangerous. That’s because copperheads are smaller, they deliver less venom, and their venom is weaker than rattlesnake venom. Generally, rattlesnakes are considered the most venomous and the most likely to cause death. Treat any snake bite seriously whether you know for sure what bit you or not!  Keep calm and get to the nearest hospital as quickly as possible.

If you are bitten by a snake, the Mayo Clinic advises:

    •    Call 911 immediately or get yourself to a hospital as quickly as possible.
    •    While waiting for medical help, stay calm and position the body so that the bite is at or below heart level.
    •    Remove jewelry or tight clothing before swelling starts.
    •    Do NOT apply ice or a tourniquet on or near the bite.
    •    Do NOT cut the wound or attempt to suck out the venom.
    •    Do NOT drink caffeine or alcohol, which could speed the body's absorption of venom.

Did you know that not all snakebites are equal? Some snakes deliver a bite with a small amount of venom and others can deliver a great deal. So-called dry bites contain no venom at all.  If you are bitten, even if it doesn’t feel worse than a bee sting at the time, you won’t know how much or how little venom was injected, therefore, it’s imperative you get immediate medical attention. Don’t apply ice, don’t use a tourniquet or constricting band, and don’t attempt to suck out the poison. Constricting blood vessels near a bite can lead to amputation.  According to a recent report, a person who suffers a bite from a venomous snake could wind up paying upward of $50,000 in medical bills due to extended hospitalization, treatment for tissue damage, and antivenin treatments. Get to an emergency room as quickly as possible to ensure the best possible outcome!

If you’re wondering how to deal with snakes you might find in your own backyard, keep in mind that nonpoisonous snakes are harmless. They eat mice, rats, and other pesky rodents you don’t want around. Having them near the house is a good thing. When disturbed, these harmless snakes usually just slither away. They prefer to avoid contact with humans. Because you never know what type of snake you might encounter, wear gloves when weeding ground cover around the house. If you know rattlesnakes and other venomous snakes are in the area, wear snake gaiters  to protect your lower legs, and leather gloves to protect hands when working outdoors.

In general, rattlesnakes are most active from March through October. In the spring, they are active during daylight hours. As days become increasingly hot around early May, rattlesnakes become more active at night and spend the day in a spot of shade or a cool shelter. Don’t take a chance! Be vigilant and take precautions to be safe— whether that be in the desert or the woods.

Trail running, at its core, is no different than any other kind of running. It takes a lot of determination, dedication and desire to run on any kind of surface. Add in obstacles such as tree roots, rocks, sand, hills, and more, and you’ll need an extra dose of those qualities on the days when running feels particularly hard. Friends who are already avid trail runners might tell you to go do and hour or two on a trail that you don’t know. If you are just beginning, that is probably not very good advice. The greatest risk that a new trail runner will face is to have a bad experience. Above all else, you have to enjoy yourself. Whether that means you enjoy the challenge of the terrain, beautiful scenery you wouldn’t find running on the streets of your neighborhood, the feeling of improving your fitness, or a combination, figure out a way to make trail running enjoyable.

It really does matter how you feel on the trail. Run when you can and don’t worry if you have to walk, some terrain is runnable and some just isn’t – knowing that really helps. It can take 45 minutes to do a mile if you are climbing uphill and only 5 minutes to come down, but it will all work out. Since all trails are different — some hilly, some flat, some rocky, some smooth — covering a certain distance on a trail will take varied amounts of time. Even the same trail can run faster or slower on any given day, dependent on trail conditions (rain + mud = slow).

A common mistake road runners make when switching to trails is comparing road running times (how long it takes to cover a mile) to trail running times and get discouraged. Running for a certain amount of time instead of a certain amount of miles can reap the same gains on the trail. Just know that unlike road running – where a consistent pace is ideal – the pace will fluctuate on trails.

Add appropriate accessories to your running routine. Although many trails provide shaded routes, it’s still wise to wear sunscreen. Sunglasses not only block harmful rays and glare, they also protect your eyes from tree branches and bushes. Wearing a hat and bug spray will help prevent insect bites and ticks. Grabbing some trail running gaiters will keep the dirt, gravel, and briars out of your shoes that can cause hot spots and abrasions. A  neck gaiter gives you a little style on the trail, and is handy for keeping the sweat out of your eyes and preventing a sunburn on your neck. And it doubles as an instant face mask should you need one due to Covid-19 concerns. Most of all, extra hydration on a trail run is a must!

While you’re out there, listen, smell, and feel the ground under your feet. If you’ve gone to the trouble of running on a trail, and not on a treadmill or a track, don’t forget to reward yourself by taking in the beauty of your environment. It may seem a little “unprofessional” compared with focusing on your watch or your cadence or your position in the race. But a nice deep gulp of nature can make the whole thing seem worthwhile, and result in a boost to your morale.

    •    Be consistent, but don’t over-train
    •    Take it easy to begin with and give your body the chance to adapt and recover
    •    Don’t expect too much of yourself too soon
    •    Focus on the experience, not your speed
    •    Adjust downtime training to accommodate for different terrains and new challenges
    •    Build up your endurance over time
    •    Avoid injuries as best you can (even minor ones)
    •    Remember to take in your surroundings

It’s all worth it. Little by little trail runners get fitter, faster and stronger!

A boot with a much sturdier sole, designed for tougher conditions, are a must, especially if you’ll be wearing crampons or snowshoes. The correct sock choice is also paramount. Merino wool is a good choice as it is supremely warm. Silk sock liners will provide much-needed extra warmth without bulk. Make sure you have sufficient room in your boots to move your toes around. Sunglasses with UV400 protection or goggles are essential for winter walking as snow glare can be seriously hazardous. Equally important is lip balm to protect your lips.

Timing is everything. Sunlight hours are limited in winter, so make use of the available daylight. Be realistic about what you can achieve in a day as ice and snow can make trails much trickier. A realistic target is 2 to 2.5 miles an hour. At least 48 hours in advance of your hike, check the weather forecast, and keep checking regularly for updates. Knowing the predicted conditions before you set out will help you adequately prepare. Never be afraid to cut your day short or even cancel if conditions are worsening. You can always reschedule when Old Man Winter calms down!

Take sufficient food and gear. Always pack more water and food than you think you’ll need so you have enough for emergency rations. Boil in the bag food is ideal, as is soup and hot chocolate to keep you warm. You will also need something to cook on, fuel for the stove, headlamp, hand / feet warmers, first aid kit, multi-tool, a compass, and map of the area. Be prepared to spend the night even if you’re intention is only a day hike.

Communication is key. Always let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return. This is true whatever time of year you choose to hike, but is even more important in winter since weather can change suddenly. Ensure your cell phone is fully charged and you are able to make calls. Make sure you know how to contact mountain rescue and that you have the means to attract attention if you need to be found.

Turtles wind up at the hospital for many reasons— from injuries due to boat strikes or becoming entangled in nets or monofilament fishing line, to ingesting fish hooks and plastic bags that cause intestinal blockage (trash in the water can look like jelly fish to turtles who eat almost anything). Once a turtle’s digestive tract has been impacted it will usually lead to starvation if not removed. Turtles at the hospital are first treated with very human-like remedies—a combination of Metamucil, fiber and vegetable oil. If that doesn’t work, surgery is performed to remove the blockage. Sea turtles are also prone to fibropapillomatosis, an aggressive herpes-like virus that causes tumors to grow. No one knows exactly why, but over 50% of the sea turtles in the Florida Keys and around the world are infected. Pollution is thought to be the main culprit.

One of the most common reasons green sea turtles need to be rescued is because of a floating problem called “Bubble Butt Syndrome” (no kidding). Floating in the wild is not normal and can be hazardous if turtles cannot dive to escape predators or catch food. At the hospital, lead weights are attached to their shells so they can submerge. Eventually those weights fall off, but by that time if their injury or sickness has not been cured, that turtle will mostly likely become a permanent resident at the Sea Turtle Center. If they lose a flipper, they probably cannot be released back into the wild either. The Turtle Hospital has successfully treated and released over 1500 turtles since its founding in 1986, but it’s comforting to know if turtles can’t return to the sea, they have a “forever home” in Marathon, Florida. When you visit, take water and wear sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and a protective neck gaiter.

Relational Health⁣
You don’t have to go it alone. Grab a friend, neighbor, or family member for more fun on the trail. Hiking with a friend can improve the strength and health of your relationship, or it could be an opportunity to see if the friendship has run its course. Exercising together can produce special feelings of closeness—and a sense of safety.With all the social distancing, cancelled events, and closures as of late, now more than ever we need to connect with real people in person whenever possible. Doing so out in the fresh air is ideal!  On the flip side, if too much quarantine togetherness has you craving alone time, just be sure to let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return — just in case.  And for anyone who spends a lot of time caregiving for other people, it can be rejuvenating to let go of that responsibility for a bit and take to a trail. After all, it can’t help but refresh you when you give yourself a break, making you more emotionally available to others afterward.
⁣
Mental Health⁣
It’s a scientific fact: going for long, serene hikes is ridiculously good for your brain. In fact, walking through mother nature exercises your mind just as much as it works out your body. Being in nature can boost your mood and improve mental health. Spending quality time in the great outdoors reduces stress, calms anxiety, and can lead to a lower risk of depression. Keep your phone in your pocket. No screen time on your hike. No news. No negativity. Just you (and perhaps a friend or pet) communing with Mother Nature for  a while. Break free from formalities and deadlines and enjoy what’s around you. Enjoy the peace and quiet. Notice the plants and animals you encounter. Notice the smells and sounds that are unique to being outdoors. In short, unplugging from technology and engaging with mother nature can be a powerful (and even necessary) activity for your brain. Plus, it also just makes you feel happier.

No Special Equipment Needed
Other than dressing appropriately for the weather and wearing a comfy pair of shoes (although hiking gaiters or snake gaiters or snow gaiters are wise when necessary), you don’t need special gear for hiking. Take water and a snack. If venturing into true wilderness, you’ll want a backpack that contains these 10 essentials: map, compass, flashlight, knife, water, food, clothing, first aid kit, matches/firestarter, sunglasses. A good rule of thumb is that whenever you venture into the woods, be prepared to spend the night. Of course you hope you never have to, but in case of an emergency, you’ll be OK.

So there you have it — many reasons to get out and take a hike this season. Grab a few items you probably already own, and, if you want, a friend, and head out on the trail.