Sage Adventurers
Autumn in our home state of Colorado is nothing short of spectacular. Crisp, cool air and gentle breezes combine with the warm golden sun to create the perfect conditions for a memorable outdoor adventure, whether a hike on a trail or a scenic drive. We even love the drive from west to east on I-70 through the Colorado mountains at this time of year because of the changing leaves.
The allure of the changing leaves in Colorado is distinct from my Midwest roots. While both regions showcase nature’s artistry, Colorado paints its canvas with the majestic Rockies as a backdrop, accentuated by bursts of golden aspen trees amid the mighty evergreens. In the Midwest, a different kind of magic unfolds, where a rolling landscape is adorned with a diverse tapestry of trees—maple, oak, hickory—blending brilliant reds, fiery oranges, golden yellows, and grounding browns into a mesmerizing mosaic.
Leaf peeping season is a brief window of time, so timing is crucial. We rely on our local news for up-to-date reports and closely monitor the weather, as sunny days tend to offer the most stunning views.
Before embarking on your fall adventure, remember to fill up your car’s gas tank. Often, you’ll find yourself in rural areas with limited refueling options. We recommend the AllTrails app, a fantastic resource for hikers, bikers, off-roaders, and scenic drivers. While digital apps are handy, we’re still advocates for a physical map. The DeLorme Atlas & Gazetteer: Colorado provides detailed maps, including non-paved roads, for a worry-free journey.
Now, let’s dive into what to do and what to bring for your fall trek in nature while practicing mindfulness by engaging your five senses:
- Sight: Marvel at the vistas of changing leaves on rolling hills and mountainsides. Consider bringing binoculars for bird watching or capturing the scenery with your phone camera or a sketch pad and drawing pencils (I’ve used this Derwent drawing pencil set for years).
- Sound: Tune in to the rustle of leaves as the wind dances through the trees. Enjoy the satisfying crunch beneath your feet as you walk.
- Touch: Connect with nature by creating a mini-earthwork with found natural objects, making leaf rubbings, or press a leaf as a keepsake of the autumn experience.
- Smell: Engage your sense of smell by practicing mindfulness techniques such as alternate nostril breathing. Or, collect a few fragrant flora and gently rub them together creating a natural potpourri, allowing the crisp fall scents to ground you.
- Taste: Elevate your walk with herbal tea and nourishing snacks like trail mix, granola bars, and beef sticks. These portable options provide a protein boost and align with the natural setting. Don’t forget to stay hydrated with water; dehydration is easily overlooked. Pack a picnic blanket, basket, and meal for an unforgettable mountainside dining experience.
To center yourself and reduce stress levels, consider a one-minute mindfulness exercise using the 5-4-3-2-1 method. Start by slowing your breath, inhaling and exhaling slowly through your nose with your mouth closed. Then, engage your senses: identify five things you see, four things you hear, three different textures to touch, two different scents to smell, and finally, focus on the taste in your mouth, savoring the moment.
Even if you can only spare an hour, carve out some time this weekend for a nature trek. Dress in layers, don a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sturdy hiking or athletic shoes. Remember to carry a daypack containing your water bottle, snacks, a small first aid kit, and sunscreen. If you fancy it, trekking poles or a hiking stick can enhance your experience. Even a short neighborhood stroll offers moments of exercise and communion with nature.
So, whether you’re traversing the Colorado mountains or exploring your local surroundings, embrace the beauty of autumn with a nature trek that engages your senses and nourishes your soul.
