Hiking is one of my most treasured pastimes. I love being in nature and getting away from the city and crowds. It’s just so peaceful listening to the birds and the wind. Time just slows down. Away from the California “life in the fast lane” kind of living, life just seems more enjoyable. There might be some huffing and puffing when trekking up hills, but you’re not in a rush. You set your own pace.

Taking a more relaxing pace is more enjoyable for me personally so my eyes can catch the pretty butterfly flying by or the hummingbird sitting on the branch ever so gently. I love making my way to a nice rock to sit on and just take it all in. One of my usual hiking spots overlooks a local lake. From that rock, I can see the lake in the distance with beautiful mountains all around it as it nature was framing the lake for a photo. During evening hikes, the sunsets behind the lake making for amazing views. The colors of the clouds, mountains and water is just stunning.

I love that when you happen across other people while hiking, they are usually very friendly and kind. Sometimes day to day life among the hustle isn’t so kind. I think hiking brings many people the joy they might be missing in their daily life. A escape from reality with their beloved pet.

My dogs love going hiking! They get to sniff all kinds of new smells and wander about in the wilderness. My hiking spot is not very popular so I let the pups off their leashes so they can run around. They are just amazing. They are well trained on coming back and listening when I speak. They get to wear themselves out while I take my time.

-Cassidy