Summer is here! It’s a great time to get outside and experience the sights, sounds, and smells of summer. The lush green tones of the trees illuminate the forest, the bullfrogs croak, the Bobwhite quail whistle, and the odor of the many flower species growing at Bernheim waft through the air.
With over 40 miles of hiking trails, we encourage you to get out and soak up the sun (and deep forest shade). Before you head out, we encourage to consider safety first. Make sure to wear the proper footwear (Bernheim is nestled among a knobby landscape, so you will occasionally be on rough terrain) – we recommend sturdy sneakers or hiking shoes. Clothing should be light and breathable. Make sure to bring along a bottle of water (reusable ones encouraged!) to stay hydrated along the way.
We strongly encourage you to wear plenty of sunscreen and bug spray. Even though the forest is shady, the sun can still expose your skin to harmful rays. The forest is also home to many six-legged creatures, including ticks. Please be protect yourself with some sort of insect repellent, and make sure to check your head and body for ticks when you leave Bernheim.
As your safety is Bernheim’s first priority, there will be days that the Millennium Trail will be closed due to a heat advisory or heat index of 100+. Please check Bernheim’s website and Visitor Center before heading out to make sure the trail is open. Additionally, the trail will be closed (potentially along with others) if there is a severe storm or high wind advisory. If you’re embarking on the Millennium Trail, make sure to sign in either at the trail head or at the Visitor Center after 9 a.m. Please begin your trek before 11:30 a.m. in order to have plenty of time to return before the Natural Areas close.
Now that you’re prepared, what are you doing sitting at your computer? Lace those shoes up and get outside!