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…
Some places reveal themselves slowly. Fowler Woods was one of those places for me. I first heard about it from a coworker, and before visiting I did what I usually do—I read about the preserve and tried to learn a little of its history. Much of what I found focused on a section of the…
Some places welcome you immediately. Others ask you to earn your comfort. Cooke Family Wildlife Conservation Park was one of those places for me. Looking at the map beforehand, I wasn’t especially excited to visit. Much of the preserve appeared to be open fields, while I usually find myself drawn toward mature forests where I…
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….
