I found this place almost by accident—or perhaps not by accident at all. Following the quiet inner nudges that often guide my explorations, I arrived at a small forest trailhead with no expectations beyond enjoying a peaceful afternoon. What I found instead was a place that gently reminded me that sometimes the most meaningful journeys…
Sometimes the best adventures are the ones you never planned. When I set out that morning, Conkles Hollow wasn’t even on my itinerary. My intention had been to explore the surrounding state forest, but as has happened more than once during my travels, I found myself following the quiet inner nudges that have become part…
Hrouda Woods Nature Preserve Some places seem unfinished, as though they are still becoming themselves. Hrouda Woods feels that way to me. Unlike many nature preserves, there are no developed trails winding through the woods yet. Instead, you’re invited to wander carefully, paying attention to where you’re stepping and allowing curiosity to guide your exploration….
Freer Field wasn’t the kind of place I expected to remember. Nestled in the middle of Ashland, it appears at first to be little more than an open field bordered by a small stretch of woods. I almost expected to hear traffic constantly or feel like I was walking through the edge of town. Instead,…
