My absolute favorite place to read is on a trail. Of course, I’m not reading and hiking at the same time (that’s dangerous!) but once I get to my destination or resting point, I’m quick to plop out a good book and get lost in the words. Trail reading is great because it’s peaceful and usually quiet. If you don’t have time to read books in your every day life, trail reading is a good resolution for exercising the mind and body. I’ve read countless books on trails but I have a few that really stuck out and helped to culminate my time with nature (no spoilers, I promise):
Where the Mountain Meets the Moon
This is a tale of a young girl on a quest for discovery and will soon face the intricacies of life, hardship, relationship and family values. She has to rely on her intuition, new found strength, optimism and faith to journey through to her destination. A timeless heroine novel and absolutely relatable for anyone. (I love destination/journeying-type books, it’s so fitting)
A Walk in the Woods
I found this at a local Goodwill and thought it sounded like a quick cool read. Little did I know it was a favorite amongst the serial backpacking and hiking community. I see why though, it’s a great read especially if you’re new to hiking or just want an intriguing backpacking story to ramp you up for adventure.
Women Food and God
This was a pretty personal read for me because it tapped into areas of my emotional habits that I didn’t know exist. It breaks down one’s relationship with food, discipline and how this all relates to God. It’s a beautiful spiritual journey to freedom from food, physical appearance and obsession.
The Botany of Desire
The epitome of “being one with nature.” This book skillfully examines how agriculture and humanity works together for survival. It interestingly dives into the ecological hierarchy by which we unknowingly contribute to on a daily basis. A very thought-provoking story.
The Bible
Even if you don’t have a certain belief system, the stories in the bible are wild! (To my fellow Christians, I’m not being blasphemous, but YOU know those stories are page turners.) They are the most intriguing, inspiring, double-back, re-read this paragraph again because I know it didn’t say what I think it said, expressions of old and modern literature. If you seek the word of God with any open mind and heart, I guarantee you will want to know and learn more. Just give it a try:)
For Your Next Excursion
I’ve noticed that a lot of people will hike to a spot, take a few pictures, rest, eat a snack then turn right back around. Next time you’re hiking or adventuring, grab a book, highlighter, maybe pen or pad and get to indulging. Let me know how it goes and I hope you check out one of the aforementioned books.
Literature’s up,
Carrie
Love this! As a fellow reader, I find it so relaxing to just find a cozy place whether it’s outside, at a waterfall, or wherever! I’m going to definitely add Women, Food, and God to the list!!