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Love / Hiking at Griffith Park

Driving into Griffith Park, I suddenly remembered the years ( over twenty) that I have been an avid hiker, and the amazing physical, mental, and social benefits of this low-impact form of "exercise”.

I chose an easy basic trail, and parked near "The Merry-Go-Round". After the initial muscle stretching uphill pace, the trail settled into a slow and steady path that curved and climbed with amazing scenery throughout. One ofmany beautiful things about this park is that there are over 4,300 acres to explore. Taking a hike there can be slow and steady, or it can be a cardio blast at a fast uphill pace.It’s your choice.

As I reached "Five-Points", a flat resting area where the trails go in five different directions. I headed for my right and choose a trail headed for the "Helicopter landing Pad". A rush of good feelings hit me, and I kept heading up, up, avoiding large rocks, and keeping my eyes open for snakes and lizards.

Once I turned around and headed down the trail, I had walked over 3 miles. When I got back to my car I felt great! The mental benefits of hiking are subtle and can clear the head and chase any emotional uglies away. I drank my entire 32 oz bottle of water, and took the time to stretch out my legs before I took off and headed back home.

As a beginner, I started hiking with the "Sierra Club" that meets in the upper "Merry-Go-Round" parking lot. At exactly 7:00 pm on the dot, Tuesdays/Wed/Thursdays, they call out the "Hikes". This is free, and open to the public, with six different levels of hikes. It's also a fantastic way to meet all sorts of people. The hike lasts for 2 hours, and I recommend bringing bottled water and wearing good shoes or boots. Now that the Fall weather has arrived, this is the perfect time of year to start hiking and enjoy the biggest park in Los Angeles.

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