I’ve mentioned before that I’m the only hunter in my family, but I’m not the only one who loves the outdoors. My dad played a huge role in introducing me to the outdoor world. From ocean kayaking to exploring local trails, he helped me develop a deep respect for the outdoors and all it has to offer.
Hunting may have its seasons, but exploring the outdoors never ends.
For the Love of The Outdoors
When hunting season comes to an end, I immediately start dreaming about the next one. But in the meantime, I’m planning trips to get outside and explore.
I have several friends who don’t hunt but love to hike, which gives us a great excuse to spend time together and create unforgettable memories.
My first experience backpacking came in eighth grade when I joined my dad on a father-son trip to Grand Teton National Park. I was the youngest kid in the group, so we spent months preparing to make sure I could keep up.
That trip remains one of the best experiences of my life.
It opened my eyes to a whole new world of adventure and possibility. Since then, I’ve been fortunate to explore incredible places like the Grand Canyon, The Rocky Mountains, and The Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Staying in Shape
Many hunting-related injuries and fatalities are not caused by firearms. Heart attacks, exhaustion, and physical overexertion are the hidden risks in hunting.
Hiking helps me stay in shape throughout the year so that when hunting season arrives, I know I’m ready to shoulder a pack and hike several miles if needed. Even without added weight, climbing steep terrain, even the hills of Pennsylvania, is a serious workout.
Hunters who neglect their fitness during the offseason can put themselves in dangerous situations. That’s why hiking is an important part of my training routine.
A New Challenge
When I hunt, I’m focused on filling a tag and bringing home meat for the freezer.
Hiking is different. There is no agenda besides exploring, and that’s exactly why I love it. I’m not trying to harvest an animal. I’m there to challenge myself, clear my mind, and experience the beauty of the places God created. The summit view is rewarding, but the journey itself is what matters most.
Hiking has led me to exploring the outdoors through other activities like kayaking and rock climbing, each one adding new skills and new adventures.
Sharing the Journey
One of the greatest blessings in my life is that I married someone who loves hiking and traveling as much as I do. These adventures have become a meaningful way for us to explore the world together.
Once hunting season starts, I rarely want to leave the woods, but during the rest of the year, hiking allows us to create memories side by side. She has even mentioned wanting to try hunting one day, which makes me even more excited for future seasons.
I even have friends who take me on new adventures. I was invited to explore the Adirondacks in upstate New York with my best friend from college and his wife. New to the area, it was great to have someone show me the ropes and trails.
Staying Outside
My goal in life is simple: to spend as much time outside as possible.
Whether that time is spent hiking, camping, backpacking, or hunting doesn’t matter nearly as much as the experience itself.
When I look back on my life, I want to know that I took every opportunity to explore this incredible world God created.
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