By: Sue Perbody
It’s that wonderful time of year again, sun shining, birds chirping, warm weather and the perfect opportunity to get outside. We should all motivate ourselves, especially with living in Buffalo, to break out of our homes and take advantage of the short window of time we have for warm summer weather. I’m sure that many can relate not only to the change in our moods after spending months bundling up to go outside and shoveling driveways. But additionally, the frustration of when the snow comes back and we realize we didn’t take advantage of getting out all summer.
What are the biggest things that hold us back from getting out? I believe for the majority of us it is one of these things or a culmination of money, time and energy. Although I can’t make anyone have the energy for getting out, I will say sometimes you have to just rip off the band aid and do it even though you don’t feel like it. Most likely, you will wind up enjoying yourself once you are there. As far as time and money goes, everything in my itinerary that I am recommending is free and likely not too far away from your home. Let’s get motivated together and enjoy this summer. There are some specific places I will be sure to make it to this summer, which I highly recommend having on your summer bucket list as well.
First on my list for making sure to get to this summer is the eternal flame hike, in Chestnut Ridge Park. This hike is beautiful and not too strenuous either, with a mix of hiking through a wooded trail and through a stream, not to mention the small flame behind a waterfall at the end of it, if you haven’t been it’s definitely worth a visit. Another one that’s perfect for those feeling ambitious or trying to get their steps in is the Devil’s Hole State Park trail. Yes, there are a lot of stairs going down which means a lot coming back up, but it is unbelievably worth it. After trekking down stairs, you get to hike along the rapids and come to a wide opening where you can sit and relax watching the water crash through before heading back on up. Another personal favorite is Tifft Nature Preserve. A mellower trail walk with also a boardwalk and potential for seeing birds, frogs, deer and more. This one is not only perfect for a leisurely hike, but wonderful for bringing the whole family. Growing up this was one of my favorite hikes to get out and do with my father, and keep my eyes peeled for spotting wildlife.
Hiking not your style? Lucky you, it’s not the only thing on my getting outdoors bucket list for this summer. Sometimes the nicest things in summer are getting to lounge out in the sun and read a book, have a picnic, play yard games or chat with friends. Some great places to go and do this which I will definitely be making my way to this summer are Niawanda State Park, Ellicott Creek Park, the Outer Harbors and Delaware Park.
Lastly, I highly recommend keeping an eye out for all the summertime events happening in Buffalo. Such as the Music is Art festival, Allentown Art Festival, Farmers markets and other things such as these. There are plenty of affordable or free ones to go check out on your own, with the family or meeting up with some friends. Hopefully something in here strikes your interest and helps in getting out of the house.