This quote came to my mind this morning as we were walking along the walking trail in our town. The walking trail extends from the center of town all the way to a the far, far side of our town, three and a half miles one way.
It winds along through a wooded area, near the highway for a stretch, back into a wooded section, out into the open along a pasture, and then back into another wooded area. There are many different habitats you can experience as you walk. Over the years we have learned what grows in each section and what to expect in each season.
Our children have walked with us hundreds of times along this trail and we came to have certain spots we would meet up if we got separated. This idea of learning how far it is between landmarks and what to expect on the trail ahead is an easy way to introduce the idea of geography to your children during a nature walk.
I can remember saying, “Stop at the bridge and wait for us on the bench.” Or I would say something like, “Turn around at the old mill and meet up with us on your way back.”
Naming certain landmarks reflects a knowledge of local geography…maybe it will inspire you to do the same on a favorite trail in your neighborhood.
- The Tunnel: an old train tunnel we walk through
- The Acorn Oaks: place to gather acorns or to watch squirrels
- The Sweet Pea section: spring and summer colors
- The Star Thistle section: the hot part of the trail where you want to stay clear of the edges
- The Mill: an old lumber mill site now vacated and being overgrown with a variety of weeds
- The Bridge: crosses over the highway and marks a turning around point for many of our walks
- The Llamas: this is the farthest point from our parking spot…always fun to see the llamas on the hillside