Cozy Up in the Park

Autumn is here on the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail!

NPS Photo

 

Can you feel the fresh, crisp autumn air? The heat of the summer has passed, and it’s a perfect time to get outdoors! Spend some time in nature and watch the foliage change colors. Just like the leaves, you can also change this season! Make a choice this fall to get healthy in nature– even walking outdoors can make a difference in your health. And with over 400 national parks to choose from, there’s a place for everyone!

Here’s a little inspiration for getting healthy this fall:

• Autumn means lots of celebrations with friends and family. Spend some time in nature with your loved ones and make memories to last a lifetime. Start a new tradition of outdoor fun with the people who matter the most!

• One of the best parts of fall is watching the leaves change from green to orange, yellow, and red. The new colors mark a great time to re-explore some of your favorite parks! For a sneak peek, check out how Shenandoah National Park changes in the fall!

• Mild fall temperatures bring back in season some of our favorite fruits and vegetables. From apples to sweet potatoes to squash and more, there’s plenty of delicious options! Find some local seasonal foods and get into the autumn spirit!

• With so many fun ways to get active in nature, don’t get sidelined by sickness! Stay healthy and protect yourself with an annual flu vaccine!

And celebrate with us as we look forward to healthy holidays!

 

• Month of September: How are you growing during Self Improvement Month? Even small positive changes can have a great impact on your health! Set goals to walk outside more or try healthier recipes. Even small steps towards better health can make a huge difference!

• Month of September: Did you know that 1 in 5 American children has obesity? And some groups are more affected than others– Hispanic and Black children have some of the highest rates of obesity. During National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month, learn about how time outdoors can keep our kids healthy.
• September 28, 2019: Become an environmental steward on National Public Lands Day, the largest single-day volunteer effort in the nation! Take part in a volunteer work project and give back to our public lands! #NPLD

 

• October 1, 2019: Get your tails wagging for National Walk Your Dog Day! Hit the trails with your furry friend and get healthy together! Your BARK Ranger will thank you for it!

• October 10, 2019: Celebrate World Mental Health Day and join the conversation about the importance of good mental health! Remember, your mental wellness is important every day of the year.

 

• Month of November: Thanksgiving is just one day, but all month is Eat Smart Month! Be well this holiday season by making good food choices and staying active!

• November 12, 2019: Celebrate World Kindness Day by showing love to yourself, your community, and your environment. By following the Leave No Trace principles, you can do all three! Invite a friend, go for a walk outside, and pick up some litter as you go. A little kindness goes a long way!

• November 17, 2019: Get outside on National Take a Hike Day! With over 400 national parks, there’s plenty of trails to keep you busy! Make a plan and get the most out of your hike!
• November 29, 2019: Tired of Black Friday crowds? Join millions of people and #OptOutside instead! Spend some time in nature on Opt Outside Day and go walking, skiing, sight-seeing, or whatever you love to do outdoors! #OptOutside

 

Looking for healthy fun during the rest of the year? Visit our Healthy Parks Healthy People Events page to find more ways to improve your health in parks.