As the trees start to bloom and the warmer weather begins to show, people find themselves going outside more and more. Local trails and hiking spots offer a very well-balanced mix of fun and exercise. On top of that, trails and parks can be found almost anywhere near a residential area.

Most of these residential trails are accessible by car or foot and can be found in many places; however, for some trails, hikers may find themselves in need a state recreational pass. Many people forget that they have a recreational pass or unknowingly have one because it is offered as an add on when people renew their license plates. To be sure that you are able to get into any trail without paying a fee, just check the annual license-plate sticker on your license plate to see if it has a “P” printed on it. If you don’t have a pass, you can obtain one at the trail site or at the secretary of state.

Additionally, in order to prepare for any hike, you always need to prepare. On any trip to take a hike, you should always bring food and water in case you’re out longer than expected.

Another thing you may need to think about is what you’re wearing. The terrain of each trail can be a little different depending on where you go so having a pair of boots or nice walking shoes could show to be beneficial and change your experience.

Getting out to go on these trails may not be appealing to some people but hiking does have excellent health benefits. With trail-based activities being a form of exercise, it helps with both physical and mental health. The Washington state Recreation and Conservation office claims that “outdoor exercise also can improve mood, restore attention, and decrease anger, depression, and stress.” These are not the only benefits of trail walking though, there are many physical benefits too, so it’s time to lace up your shoes and find some cool places to walk.

Mike Levine Lakelands Trail

Trails can be found everywhere, even in your own backyards. For instance, Stockbridge has numerous trails in and around its area and once of those trails is the Mike Levine Lakeland Trail. This trail cuts right through the town of Stockbridge and stretches 33 miles long between Jackson County and Hamburg Township.

The trail has paved areas, so it’s perfect for beginners who want to get outdoors. It provides excellent scenery as the trail goes over various creeks and through colorful wooded areas; however as it gets warmer, bugs will start coming out and hikers may need to bring items such as bug spray along with weather appropriate gear.

if walking doesn’t seem appealing, this long trail is also accessible to horse back riding and has a bike lane to ensure everyone can use it.

Gerald E. Eddy Discovery Center

There are many trails right outside of Stockbridge in the local areas and the Gerald E. Eddy Discovery Center in Chelsea is a very good option.

Connected to these trails are a multitude of DTE energy trails as well as many loop trails that can range from one mile to over five miles.

The Discovery Center’s most famous trail is the bog trail, which is a mile and a half. Unlike most of the trails, this is not a loop so the distance covers hiking from the Discovery center to the bog and then back again.

“It goes through a lot of different habitats that you’d find in Waterloo and you end up at a bog which is a unique wetlands with very specific plants that live there,” Park interpreter Katie Mcglashen said.

The bog isn’t the only interesting and educational trail, this chain provides various trails that take you through different habitats and there are many diagrams that display the wildlife that can be found around the park.

This park does require a recreational pass and is not typically busy. It offers a nice break from the world and it’s a great park for families and individuals alike.

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Michael Armstrong