Garey Park Nature Hikes
Take in a diversity of plants and animals and an abundance of beauty on a nature walk at Garey Park! There is no better way to see all that the park has to offer than hiking through it. Maybe you’ll spot a colorful bird or perhaps a butterfly atop a gorgeous flower!
Walking is also a GREAT way to burn of stress. Ever hear the term “walk it off?” Research suggests that there is evidence to this stress-releasing strategy. The study, conducted by researchers at the University of Michigan, found that taking group nature walks is associated with a whole host of mental health benefits, including decreased depression, improved well-being and mental health, and lower perceived stress. And the positive effects on mood seemed to be especially strong among people who had recently experienced a traumatic life event, like a serious illness, death of a loved one or divorce.
The Details on Nature Hikes
Guided nature hikes are lead by Garey Park staff and volunteers on a biweekly basis. Guided hikes start at 8:30 a.m. and usually take place every other Thursday. The hikes ones scheduled for the near future take place on:
- October 10
- October 24
- November 7
- November 21
Regular park entry fees are required for those participating in these nature walks. Hikes are first-come, first-served and limited to 20 people. The meeting point will change each week, so please make sure to check in at the Gate House upon arrival and staff will direct participants to the meeting point.
The hikes will range from ½ mile-3 miles long, then you can take a breather at the wildlife viewing blind. The trails at Garey Park are uneven, crushed limestone and crushed granite along the way. Please bring water, hat and camera for pictures. We look forward to seeing you there!
Update: Garey Park News Year’s Day Hike!
Kickoff the New Year on the right foot with a hike at Garey Park! Come out on New Year’s Day and enjoy the trails. The park will be debuting their new trail maps which provide more detailed information about the trail system, including suggested routes and levels of difficulty.
Garey Park staff and volunteers will also be offering guided hikes at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. The hikes are first-come, first-served and limited to 20 participants per guide. There are 3 guided nature hikes per time slot. Regular entry fees apply. Please check-in at the park Gate House upon arrival and staff will direct you to the meeting point.
More Positive About Hiking, Nature Walks
“Walking is an inexpensive, low risk and accessible form of exercise and it turns out that combined with nature and group settings, it may be a very powerful, under-utilized stress buster,” Sara Warber, associate professor of family medicine at the University of Michigan Medical School, said in a statement.
“Our findings suggest that something as simple as joining an outdoor walking group may not only improve someone’s daily positive emotions but may also contribute a non-pharmacological approach to serious conditions like depression.”
The new findings join a growing body of research demonstrating the numerous physical and mental health benefits of walking in nature. Getting your daily steps in could lead to better cardiovascular health, reduced stress, improved mood and self-esteem, healthy weight, strengthened bones, and boosts in creative thinking. That’s enough to get me moving!