One Season to the Next....: Facing Fears at Oak Mountain State Park (Alabama)

Well, I am still catching up on posting my memories. LOL!!! Soooo, I am an avid hiker, and it is a big part of my life. Unfortunately, lately, it has slowed down a bit. But back in November I worked the nerve to go solo hiking at Oak Mountain State Park in a neighboring state, Sweet Home Alabama.

I have had this place on my bucket list for 2025 to hike and I was determined I would. So, close to the end of the year I DID! I was a little nervous hiking solo a new place so far off, but I did it and I was so glad I did. It was a good place to work up the courage AGAIN for solo hiking.

Again, I could have not asked for a more perfect day!! I hiked a total of 7 in half miles this day. I hiked half the mountain and then the bottom around a beautiful lake.

Why? Why do I keep hiking? Many reasons. One- it has been a wonderful help for my mind and emotions. I will spare you the details but it is a help.

Second, it has helped me learn to push myself and do hard things. Face some fears and also makes me more appreciative of this beautiful world we live in.

After a scary incident a year ago, solo hiking has been very hard for me. I used to hike all the time by myself, but one traumatic situation has caused me to have a lot of fear. I had a hiking buddy, but she can no longer go as often. I enjoying hiking a lot as time allows and so that means either, I let fear and lack of a hiking partner stop me or a face it my fear and be prepared and trek on out.

I am learning more about being prepared and tools to help protect me. Here above the pink thing is mace and I have a visible and easy reachable knife if you will look close you can see it.

Thirdly, I like to hike for the views, nature, and to feel the sun, breeze, even rain on my face. It is refreshing and really lifts my moods. I learn a lot on the trails. I really do. A lot about nature, being quiet, learning to build endurance, and so much more.

Little chipmunks were scurrying all over the trails this day. I kept hearing rustling all day along the trail and finally realized what it was as they kept poking their heads out and running real quick across the trails.

I did have to share some of the trails with mountain bikers. It was fine and most were respectful. But some scared me to death when they whirl past me on a ridge. Trail etiquette is important. I wish all knew it.

I packed a picnic to save on money. I honestly just love a good hike and picnic. I ate a yummy turkey sandwich, chips, and some cookies. Some of my favorite hiking snacks because that is a MUST (haha!) when I am hiking are gummy bears, jerky sticks, crackers, pretzels, and granola bars. I miss a good trail mix but my allergy to nuts prevents that now.