Slowing Down : Embracing Nature’s Pace on Your Hikes

Allie • September 2, 2024 • Day Hiking

I've learned that hiking a slower pace is better and here's why

As I get older I’ve learned to slow down, especially on my hikes, but I wish this was something I did 30 years ago. It’s never too late to start, right?

Hiking Slower to Enjoy all Your Senses

Today I’m at Staunton State Park in Colorado. This park is one of the most naturally diverse and beautiful state parks I’ve ever visited, and I’ve been to many. It was certainly a treat to hike here.

Stephanie, my awesome friend who invited me to stay with her in Colorado for a couple of weeks, and I hit the trail at dawn. Staunton’s parking lots fill early and we weren’t going to miss out on hitting the trails here.

Try Slow Hiking in One of the Hikes from this book : 100 Hikes of a Lifetime: The World's Ultimate Scenic Trails

This was going to be an eight mile trek with elevation so immediately I was thinking to take it slow since I hadn’t hiked in a few months and that was a pretty flat hike.

It’s good to plan out your pace as you get older because our bodies simply can’t keep up like they used to. Sure, I feel very strong these days, stronger than I have ever been, but my body has 52 year old organs and limbs that scream at me faster than they used to.

Plus I’m happy to slow down because then I take in more of nature with all my senses, well, maybe not taste since I don’t know what wild things you can eat out here.

Read Also : It's Ok to be Proud of Yourself  - a story of how I gained patience through personal struggle and slowing down.

Was Slowing Down My Hike Worth It?

The eight miles proved to be exhausting for me but very satisfying at the same time. All I can say is “Thank God for downhill.” I’m glad I took my time uphill.

This is a very naturally diverse park with meadows, granite rock, riparian forests, and grassy meadows. If you’re looking for a great place to hike just outside Denver, Colorado this is certainly the place.

Be sure to take your time, slow down and see the Staunton cabin homestead as well.

This park was a treat!

Watch on YouTube

Watch my hike and my reflections on slowing down in my YouTube video below.

Thank You for Stopping By!

I’m Allie. At 48 I set out solo to live in my RV. That journey is on hold but my passions for hiking and living well in my 50s still live on! Join me below for more inspiration and adventures. We’re older but even stronger!