ArcaMax

During a recent visit to Florida, I strolled along a section of a trail that provided close-up views of magnificent scenery, rolling beach sand dunes and a virtual aviary of colorful birds. I was walking on part of the Florida National Scenic Trail, a 1,500-mile-long footpath that weaves its way across the state from the Big Cypress National Preserve in the south to the western end of the panhandle up north.

This is one of 11 long-distance hiking routes designated by Congress as National Scenic Trails. They're intended to showcase the country's spectacular natural resources and beauty. These routes are primarily non-motorized trails that traverse beautiful terrain and connect communities, significant landmarks and public lands.

Whether you prefer the kind of long-distance hikes that the Florida route offers, enjoy strolls near where you live or like to include walks on your activity list when traveling, the choice of alternatives is long and inviting.

That Florida route traverses pristine sand beaches, some with dunes that reach 30 feet in height; Florida palmetto palm trees, which scientists say can live for thousands of years; and "tea streams," which tannins and other materials tint the color of that beverage.

Along with enjoying the beauty of the Florida trail, I was taking advantage of other benefits that hiking provides to people of every age. Even those whose mobility might be challenged can tailor a jaunt to their preferences and capabilities.

Hiking contributes to heart health, muscle strength and enhanced flexibility. It benefits mental well-being by reducing stress and anxiety.

Discovering, or rediscovering, the beauty of nature offers an introduction -- or reintroduction -- to the natural environment. Research has indicated that time spent meandering along gentle trails can improve one's mood and support a sense of calm. In addition, being surrounded by Mother Nature's beauty and tranquility can improve concentration and memory.

There's a wide choice of hikes around the country that are perfectly suited to all levels of fitness and age. Whether you enjoy a leisurely stroll along a flat surface, a moderate walk with its share of ups and downs, or a taxing climb up a steep mountain, the list of alternatives is long and varied enough to meet every preference.

For starters, they can include jaunts around or near the neighborhood where you live or in urban parks. Mention Dayton, Ohio, and hiking probably isn't the first thing that comes to mind. Yet many residents take advantage of the Mad River Trail, a pathway that follows its namesake river for 7 miles.

Downtown Salt Lake City offers gentle saunters for child-toting parents, casual walks for older folks seeking a bit of exercise and others suitable for those ready for a real challenge. The moderate Donut Falls trail leads to a waterfall where a creek plunges through a hole in a cavern ceiling, while those who make the strenuous climb to the 9,026-foot-high peak of Mount Olympus are rewarded with spectacular views over Salt Lake Valley.

Equally challenging -- and gratifying -- is the ascent to the top of Camelback Mountain, located 20 minutes by car from Phoenix, Arizona. Two routes lead over exposed rock that in places requires hand-over-hand climbing. Those who reach the peak are treated to 360-degree views of the surrounding city.

More leisurely strolls await those seeking to combine hiking with history. From 1831 until 1924, cargo boats plying the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal transported coal, lumber and farm products from Cumberland, Maryland, to Washington, D.C., a distance of 185 miles. The flat-bottom vessels were pulled by mules that walked along the shore. Among starting prices charged for specific freight per ton per mile were one-quarter cent for coal and 2 cents for slaughtered pigs, fresh fish and whiskey.

The level tow path on which the mules walked recalls that colorful story and invites both day-trippers seeking a bit of easy exercise and those seeking a longer trip. Several of the 19th-century houses in which operators of canal locks lived have been refurbished and are available for short-term rentals.

Those interested in exploring part or all of a much-longer route might opt for the American Discovery Trail. Stretching over 6,800 miles, it connects five national scenic and 12 national historic trails, 39 national recreational trails, and many other local and regional paths. Reaching from Delaware to California, the ADT incorporates trails designed for hiking, bicycling and equestrian use. Along the way, it traces numerous paths used by pioneers, leads to 14 national parks and 16 national forests, and visits more than 10,000 sites of historic, cultural or natural significance.

Whether you favor a gentle stroll close to where you live or a challenging clamber up a step mountain path farther away, a wide selection of alternatives is yours for the taking.

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WHEN YOU GO

For more information: alltrails.com

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Victor Block is a freelance writer. To read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.

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