Autumn’s golden hues set the tone for an exhilarating outdoor adventure.

Fall foliage is at its peak. Why not treat yourself to a long hike under an autumn canopy of red, orange and gold? Not only will you get a terrific workout; you’ll become more relaxed as the rustling-crunch of each step carries you further from the bustle of daily life and deeper into nature’s sanctuary. So go ahead and take a little time to reconnect with yourself or with your loved ones outdoors.

Take Time for You

It was a long, busy summer. You’ve earned a little time to yourself! Forget that load of laundry; leave your to-do list behind. This day is just for you. Send your husband and kids on a Saturday morning field trip. Set the mood with a Chocolate Comfort Sipper and hop in the tub for a long, luxurious bath. Once you’re refreshed and ready to go, pick a local hiking trail, grab your favorite music mix and hit the road! And please don’t worry what your family will eat for lunch while you’re away. You made a delicious pot of hearty Slow-Cooker Creamy Vegetable Barley Soup the night before.

Reconnect with Your Partner

Nothing rekindles romance like a warm autumn afternoon. Why not pack a basket of your favorite wine and cheeses and toast the day? Ask a friend or family member to take your kids for the day — or better yet, overnight. Before heading out, prepare a romantic pre-hike brunch of Cinnamon Swirl Yogurt French Toast just for two. Then pop online to find the best fall foliage, and you’re on your way! Remember, this outing is as much of an exercise in reconnecting as it is a physical workout. While you’re away, why not treat yourselves to a candlelight dinner at that quaint little inn you’ve always wanted to visit? Since you’re already there, you might as well stay the night and hike the trails again tomorrow!

Apple Picking with Your Family

Looking for a great way to have fun and get exercise as a family? Why not check out the fall foliage at your local apple farm? Not only will you get a fantastic workout from picking apples, climbing in trees and taking hayrides; you’ll also get to bring home all the sweet, delicious fruits of your labor! Those tart, green apples will taste great in a scrumptious Baked Apples with Cinnamon Yogurt Topping dessert. Golden, juicy apples are the perfect ingredient for a quick and easy Apple Yogurt Smoothie snack.

Now that you’ve gotten a taste of the great outdoors, you can’t wait to do it again! As you head for the door you hear the thump, thump, thump of an old familiar friend. Your dog knows you’re setting out for another wilderness adventure. His wagging tail begs “me too!” Why not bring him along? You might be inspired to take an even longer walk than usual. Plus, the added resistance as he pulls you along will help burn more calories and work your muscles. Happy hiking!