End of Summer Walking Bucket List
I don’t know about you, but I’m once again here at the end of July, wondering where the summer went. For us, this week ends with school volleyball tryouts—and, assuming my daughter makes the team, daily practices start on Monday. In other words: summer is just about over.
At about this time every year, I start to panic. I think about all of the things I wanted to do over the summer break—all of the things we didn’t end up doing. I scramble to try to squeeze in fun summer activities. I freak out about school supply lists. I might even feel a little sad that summer wasn’t what I hoped it would be.
Fortunately, I’m a walker—which means that I can hit the trail and walk off some of that end-of-summer anxiety while enjoying some more time in the summer sun. After all, while back-to-school season may be creeping in, there’s still time left! So I’ve put together a bucket list full of things to enjoy on our walks before the summer comes to a close.
Walk at Sunset
My husband and I often go on easy walks at the end of the day. They give us a chance to catch our breath and unpack the events of the day. And the fact that we often go for these walks as the sun is setting makes it even better. There’s just something about the cooling temperatures and the beautiful colors painted across the sky that make it the perfect way to wind down at the end of the day.
Go for a Long Walk
During the busy summer months, it’s often about fitting in a couple of miles when I can—but if I find myself with a longer opening in my schedule, I take full advantage by going for a long walk. Before the summer ends, make the time to get a longer walk in—just to enjoy the sunshine and the fresh air and the movement.
Walk in the Woods
It won’t be long before the leaves on the trees will start changing colors—and then start falling. While the leaves are still thick and green, enjoy a walk through the woods, under a green, leafy canopy.
Go for a Coffee Walk
As the old ad once said: two great things that go great together! Stop by your favorite coffee shop—or fill up your travel mug at home—and enjoy a walk while sipping your iced coffee. Don’t worry about going fast or far—just enjoy the drink and the walk.
Walk with a Friend You Haven’t Seen in a While
For many of us, summer means chaos. If you’ve got kids at home, it means planning activities and driving to camps—and that often means that, while you’re spending the summer driving the kids to their friends’ houses, you don’t get to see a lot of your own friends. So take the time to reconnect with some friends and go for a walk with them as you prepare to make the transition back into your post-summer life.
Explore a New Trail
There’s still plenty of time to check out those trails you’ve been meaning to explore! Pick one (or more!) to visit before the end of the summer.
Do a Five Senses Walk
Whether you’re on your usual trail or an unfamiliar one, take the time to engage your five senses. Think about what you can see, hear, smell, taste, and feel while you’re on the trial.
Go for a Walk after Dark
While the days are still pretty long, they’re not as long as they were a month ago. And since the days still tend to be sweltering, a nighttime walk can be a cool and peaceful way to end the day. Grab a flashlight and a friend and enjoy a stroll in the dark.
Walk Near Water
I love the sound of water—of waves on the shore or a rushing river. And, as an added bonus, those bodies of water can offer a nice, cool breeze, making it perfect for a late-summer walk. So before the summer ends, be sure to enjoy a walk by the water.
Listen to Your Favorite Summer Songs
Whether you use my summer walking playlist or one of your own, pop those earbuds in your ears and walk to your favorite summery songs to celebrate the sunshine and carefree feeling of the summer.
Walk in Silence
Okay…you know I hate this one. I’m terrible at silent walks. But I also know that it can be a great way to take in the sights and sounds and smells around you—and to reflect on the things you’re grateful for. It doesn’t have to be long—just 10 minutes or so. But you might find that it makes you aware of something you hadn’t noticed (or thought of) before.
Collect a Small Treasure
I don’t know about you, but I’ve always been one for collecting treasures. Whenever I’m at the beach, I can’t help but pick up a pretty rock or a special shell. While you’re on your walk, pick up something from nature—a rock, a shell, a pinecone, or something similar—and put it somewhere where you’ll see it often, to remind you of your summer walks.
Make a Walking Gratitude List
As you walk, think about things that you’re grateful for—trails you’ve explored this summer, memorable walks, walking buddies you’ve been able to spend time with. Come up with at least five things.
Treat Yourself
After your walk, take the time to enjoy a favorite treat—whether it’s a summery treat like a popsicle or a scoop of ice cream or your favorite coffee or smoothie. You’ve put in the miles this summer, so celebrate it!
Set Some Goals
A new season is a time for making new plans, starting new routines, and setting new goals! Whether you’re making a New School Year Resolution or setting some goals for the coming months, now’s the time to choose your goals and start putting together a plan to make them happen!
Don’t panic quite yet; there’s still plenty of time to enjoy some summer walks before the seasons start to change again. And if you make a point of enjoying every mile, every sight, every smell, every summer experience by checking things off your walking bucket list, you might just feel ready to walk into fall when the time comes.
What else is on your end of summer walking bucket list?
