The Tyke Hikes of 2017 have dealt with freezing rain, thunderstorms, subzero temperatures, and anything else Mother Nature decided to send. Today, however, she made up for it with an absolutely gorgeous bright and shiny day in the mid-sixties. Approximately thirty hikers joined ups for the longest Tyke Hike (in distance) to date.
Originally planned for a trek along the Back Forest Nature Trail, muddy terrain altered the route. While just about doubling up the distance, we were able to view wonderful sights never seen on a Tyke Hike before.
The nature kindergarten teacher inside me had to take advantage of some teachable moments. Whether it was pointing out some glacial features, discussing the options animals have for winter (Hibernate, Activate, Migrate, or HAM), or identifying different leaves, I couldn't turn down a few mini lessons along the way.
Though we ended up hiking a longer distance, we still took the time and had the energy for some natural play. We made sure to make it rain leaves, look under logs, test out nature's balance beams, and rest on some stumps.
We even found some giant leaves and a very special tree throne that the kids took turns enjoying.
Even with a longer route, a trek up the tower is a Pike Lake tradition that just couldn't be missed.
It was great to hike with many new Tyke Hike families. The weather was perfect and the kids were fantastic adventurers. Only one more Tyke hike in 2017. Hope to see you there!
No comments:
Post a Comment