6 Things to do in Summer on a Budget
summer, camping, backpacking, hiking, picnic Stacey Behrends summer, camping, backpacking, hiking, picnic Stacey Behrends

6 Things to do in Summer on a Budget

Summertime can be an excellent opportunity to explore your local area, especially if you are on a budget. I understand that summer travel is very enticing, but the cost of traveling during the summer months can be significantly higher than at other times.

Sometimes, it can be challenging to find local activities. I often struggle with this in my town, as there isn't much to do here. However, there are a few neighboring towns that offer more outdoor activities.

Are you looking for fun and affordable activities this summer, with or without kids? Here are six budget-friendly ideas to make the most of the sunny season!

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Benefits of Hiking
hiking, healthy lifestyle Stacey Behrends hiking, healthy lifestyle Stacey Behrends

Benefits of Hiking

I love hiking, especially in the Rocky Mountains of the areas surrounding Durango, CO. It is such a rewarding activity and I LOVE being outdoors, in the sun and seeing all of the plants and wildlife. It just makes me so happy to be outdoors exploring the wilderness. Not only is it a rewarding experience, there are many benefits of hiking as well.

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A Sunrise Hike
hiking, sunrise hike Stacey Behrends hiking, sunrise hike Stacey Behrends

A Sunrise Hike

The sense of accomplishment you feel for completing a sunrise hike is so great. Getting up early to hike up a mountain in the dark can be very rewarding when getting to the top just as it begins to get lighter and you feel the warmth of the sun on your skin. The colors in the sky begins to light up and colors begin to change. You see the yellows and golds mixed with pinks and purples on the horizon as the sun slowly begins to appear lighting up the sky even more. The colors change even more becoming more vibrant and the beauty makes the dark hike even more worth it

Completing a sunrise hike can be incredibly rewarding. Watching the sky change colors and feeling the warmth of the sun on your skin is a beautiful experience. If you're visiting Durango, Colorado, here are some hikes to plan for a stunning sunrise view. Even if you're not a morning person, you might find it surprisingly pleasant.

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5 Tips For Hiking with Dogs
hiking, backpacking, dogs, active lifestyle Stacey Behrends hiking, backpacking, dogs, active lifestyle Stacey Behrends

5 Tips For Hiking with Dogs

Taking your dog on a hike is an excellent way for you and your dog to get some activity in. Most dogs love being outside, and I know my dog does. Miss Lyla LOVES being outside. I do not have a yard to run around in, but we go on walks and lots of hikes to allow her to get her exercise in. Here are some tips for hiking safely with your dog.

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Bear Safety - What you NEED to Know to Stay Safe While Backpacking/Hiking
backpacking, bear safety, hiking Stacey Behrends backpacking, bear safety, hiking Stacey Behrends

Bear Safety - What you NEED to Know to Stay Safe While Backpacking/Hiking

Black bears are commonly sighted in the Rocky Mountains. It is common to see bears around small mountain towns like Durango, CO, where I live. So, learning bear safety is essential, especially when backpacking or hiking in bear country. Here is what you NEED to know to stay safe while backpacking or hiking.

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6 Backpacking Tips
backpacking, hiking Stacey Behrends backpacking, hiking Stacey Behrends

6 Backpacking Tips

Providing a unique experience, backpacking allows you to hike for a given amount of miles each day, camping in a different place each night. It’s essential to research backpacking so you can be prepared. No amount of research is a substitute for a good old-fashioned experience, so joining a seasoned backpacker on a short trail for your first trip may be a brilliant and safe idea.

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