Get walking (and hiking)

Mountain Island lake vista (from Latta Plantation Park Facebook photos)

Naturally Wonderful, by Rich Haag - March 13, 2012

It amazes me that one of the most beneficial activities I can do is also one of the most natural – in all senses of the word. Walking is simply a great gift to my body, mind and, hopefully, other loved ones who walk with me on two or four feet.

The web is full of sites devoted to the benefits of hiking and walking. At the Cambridge, Mass., Department of Communty Development, I read that people who walk at a moderate pace (3 mph) for 30 minutes a day can cut their risk of heart disease by up to 40 percent. Other medical benefits range from a stronger immune system and bones to weight control and mood improvement. A 150-pound person burns an extra 132 calories when walking 3 mph for 30 minutes. Whenever I walk for 30 minutes amid great natural beauty, I just feel happier.

A great time to get out and hike

Charlotte's spring temperatures are perfect for moderate exercise. And if you like to see naturally beauty while you hike, head to a local park. As of last Sunday, Mecklenburg County parks are now open until 7:30 each evening. We have some great ones to explore.

Latta Plantation Nature Preserve is nearby on upper Mountain Island Lake. The park's 16 miles of trails will take you along the lake shoreline, through upland and wetland forests and across a restored Piedmont prairie.

You can go on your own or take advantage of the many park hikes where naturalists can help you and your hiking partners learn about the plants and animals that live around us.

How to get there

Latta Plantation Nature Preserve is at 6211 Sample Road, Huntersville. The park is open sunrise-sunset (currently closing time is 7:30 p.m.). The staffed nature center is open 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Mondays-Saturdays and 1-5 p.m. Sundays. 

Directions: Get a map link. 

Trail map and programs: Download a trail map and learn about upcoming programs.

Facebook: Great photos and more.

Upcoming programs

Guided nature hikes for adults – 9-11 a.m. every 2nd and 4th Tuesday each month. Join park naturalists at the nature center for a fun nature walk. Free. No reservations required.

Full Moon Hike - 8-9:30 p.m. April 6 - Experience the magic of hiking in the nature preserve guided by the light of the full moon. Learn about animals that come out at night and maybe even catch a glimpse of some. Ages 12 and up. $4. No. 30736

To register

Registration is required for most programs. Select one option:

• CLICK on Eparks at www.parkandrec.com and use the course code number
• CALL 311 (704.336.7600) or the number listed.
• COME to the location where the program is offered. 

About Rich Haag -  Rich gained his love for the outdoors while roaming the woods and river gorge near his upstate NY home. He has spent many vacations – one lasting eight weeks -  camping with his wife, Karen, and their sons. Rich still roams the woods nearly every day, either walking with Karen at Reedy Creek Nature Preserve or cycling on the Mallard Creek Greenway.