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Why you should take a walk in nature with your kid!

A note from the Publisher

By Andrea Kelley, Macaroni Kid - Adirondacks, NY May 13, 2022

Hey! So some of you know me already, but for those who don't, my name is Andrea, and I'm the Publisher for Macaroni Kid - Adirondacks NY. What does that mean?? Well- I wear many hats. I write content for families, parents, and all those in our community. All of it is locally focused. I advertise for locally owned businesses. I create guides, and share events.
 
Did a new business open in town? Who are they? What's going on this weekend? What can I do with my kids this month? My kids keep saying they're bored..what can we do together? What is there to do when we don’t have the kids? All of these questions, I can answer for you!

Craft Ideas, recipes, parenting tips, local events, locally owned businesses, and more can and will be found on our website.

Everything having to do with Lake George this summer - we are your go to spot.

I also cover surrounding towns like Queensbury, Glens Falls, Argyle, Granville, Bolton Landing, Warrensburgh, Brant Lake, Whitehall, and more. I even post events as far South as Saratoga, or Albany area, and as far north as Ticonderoga, Hague, and Crown Point.

I am passionate about the Adirondacks, having grown up here most my life, and now raising my child here, it stays close to my heart. I love the locally owned businesses, that the hardworking families in our community own, and run. I love the families and people here that always find a way to come together, and look out for each other.

That's why I do this job. Not to mention the fact that Macaroni Kid is a pretty AWESOME community!!!

I'll sometimes have some cool deals to offer you all from CertifiKID , we will have exciting giveaways, and sometimes even host our own Macaroni Kid - Adirondacks events!

So I hope that explains a little more about who I am, and what we are all about! It would mean a lot if you'd join me, and

SUBSCRIBE!  :)



I also vow to always be helpful, and purposeful with the content I post, so here are some reasons why it's a GREAT idea to take a walk in nature with your kid! (And maybe your dog too!)

Reason #1 - The most obvious reason- your physical health! Walking is proven to; strengthen your bones and muscles, maintain a healthy weight, and increase your cardiovascular health.

Reason #2 - It can improve your mood. Getting out of the house and walking for even just 30 minutes a day, has been scientifically proven to lower stress levels, improve your mood, cognition, and help you sleep at night. (I know that whether I sleep well at night affects my mood!)

Reason #3 - The benefits of Mother Nature. Your skin being exposed to the sun, makes it your body manufacture it's own Vitamin D! In technical terms: "The sun's ultraviolet B (UVB) rays interact with a protein called 7-DHC in the skin, converting it into vitamin D3, the active form of vitamin D".
It's also been proven that just walking among/looking at trees and nature, actually lowers blood pressure, along with the production of the stress-related hormones; cortisol and adrenaline.

Reason #4 - Quality Time. Our busy lives take us to many places, but a lot of times we are distracted. Setting aside a chunk of time every day to spend with your kid going for a walk in nature is a great way to bond together, taking a break from the every day grind. These walks will spark conversations, whether they be silly, or deep and meaningful!

Reason #5- It's good for them. For children, physical activity such as walking can burn extra energy that they naturally have, resulting in their brains and bodies being able to calm down and relax. (And helps them sleep better at night!) The same goes for dogs too, especially depending on the breed! Usually the bigger the dog is, the more exercise they need, so grab the leash next time and include your dog on the walk! They will thank you. (Probably with kisses, or snuggles!)

Here are some scenic trails to go for a walk with your family in the Adirondacks!






Mettowee River Park in Granville, NY
One of our favorite parks to go to, since we live right in Hampton. There is a huge area to walk your dogs, as well as a swimming hole and river for taking a dip or kayaking! It's provided picnic tables and chairs make it the perfect place for a picnic and a quick swim on a hot day. It's even used for Cross Country Skiing int he winter!







Rush Pond Trail in Queensbury, NY
With three hand-constructed bridges along this trail, it certainly stands out from the rest.
Trail go-ers in Queensbury can enjoy recreation as far as walking, skiing, or even biking during all 4 seasons! Parking is located at the intersection of West Mountain Road and Gurney Lane. You will see the large sign for Rush Pond Trail.

"Rush Pond Trail and the smaller trails that branch from it are ungroomed, making it perfect for skiing and fat biking in the winter, but skiers and bikers are encouraged to always keep an eye out for snowshoers and people walking with their four-legged friends. Be cautious during the winter months, as conditions can be very icy. The trail system is open during daylight hours, with leashed dogs permitted."- Town of Queensbury







Lakefront Walkway in Lake George, NY
After a day of shopping, eating, riding on the Lake George Steamboats, swimming, or even sight seeing, one of our family's favorite things to do on a warm summer night, is take a walk on the Lakefront Walkway!

"1700 foot walkway along the southern end of the lake, in the heart of Lake George Village. This beautiful walk-way provides the most perfect views of the lake and is lined with benches, trees, and flowers. Walk from Shepard Park (Canada Street) to Million Dollar Beach (Beach Road). Boat docks available. Enjoy lake activities throughout the year.

Canada Street (Rt. 9) to Beach Road
Lake George Village, NY  12845" -Lake George Guide






Peggy's Point in Hague, NY
Peggy's Point is a beautiful walking spot just down the road from the beach in the town of Hague, NY. It sits right on Lake George, with a beautiful view, and a spacious area complete with benches and a Gazebo to walk and sight-see with your family. Hague is a peaceful and quiet town. It is proudly a part of the Lake George Land Conservancy
Peggy's Point in Hague is definitely worth the visit.




Want to see more? Send me your favorite walking spots! Get involved in the conversation on our Facebook Page! 
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