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Posted on 7/6/2018 9:26 AM

Active vacations - get moving and get away in the new year

Many people make plans to start the new year with the goal of kickstarting a healthier lifestyle in the new year. Others just want to get away to a quiet, romantic spot to start the new year. Fortunately, the Featherbed Railroad's location in Lake County, California can help you with both. 
California's Lake County is a year-round outdoor paradise with so many active things to do you may have to return every month just to make a dent in the list.

The first day of the year and the first Sunday of every month Anderson Marsh Interpretative Association (AMIA) holds strolls through Anderson Marsh. This beautiful natural paradise is a haven for bird watchers year round and offers trails of many challenge levels for adventure seekers. From a stroll at the beach to a bit more active pace, Anderson Marsh can be a great way to start easy and begin working your way up the scale. 

Konocti Regional Trails is another collection of great pathways with everything from water trails to spectacular vistas and serene countryside walks. The organization's website has water trails, bicycle trails, dog-friendly trails, hikes, equestrian adventures and even trails through vineyards. With the cleanest air in California and the third-cleanest air in the USA you might get winded on some of these adventures, but each breath is definitely going to be a breath of fresh air. 

Another way to get in the habit of a healthier lifestyle is to combine fitness with adventure and geocaching is a perfect way to do just that. What is geocaching? It's sort of a grown-up treasure hunt to find various items using the GPS receiver in your phone along with a sense of adventure. Geocaches are everywhere but there are also a lot in Lake County and finding them can be a step in the right direction if getting out and doing things is your goal. 

For those looking to add active activity to their getaway, we have an almost limitless suggestion list. But one of the things visitors can participate in is rowing and the Clear Lake Scullers would love to have you join them. Clear Lake Scullers is a community-based rowing club offering access to rowing and paddling equipment as well as instruction. Membership is open to the public and there are programs for youth and adults year 'round.

"We're always looking for beginners to join us," said Scullers member Carol Cole-Lewis. The club generally goes out on Saturdays.

Hiking is an excellent way to get a move on. Lake County is a hiker's paradise with over 600,000 acres of public land and over 100 miles of hiking trails through some of California's most stunning landscapes, making Lake County an ideal place to step out.

Have you hiked a volcano lately? One of hikers' favorite treks is to the top of Mount Konocti, an inactive volcano that is the centerpiece of almost all Lake County vistas. "I think it's one of the best trails around," continued Carol Cole-Lewis, "There are lovely vista stops with restrooms along the way. Even your dog will appreciate the hike!"

Feeling stressed out, not enough sleep? Many fitness and well-being experts tout the healthful benefits of a good night's sleep and an active day here will certainly promote that, and Lake County's beautiful night sky will contribute. With almost no light pollution, visitors to Lake County are dazzled by the number of stars they can see in the night sky. Hiking and stargazing are the perfect combination to promote your great night's sleep.

Unless you choose to stay up and marvel at how many stars you see – that delightful decision is up to you!

How about a little water time? There are all sorts of ways to spend time getting some exercise on the water and kayaking is one of those activities that, again, combines the uncrowned natural beauty of Lake County with time spent doing good for yourself. If you don't already have one, Lake County's own AirKayaks will be happy to assist you in finding just the right inflatable kayak that will stow nicely in your trunk and be begging for adventure whenever the water's near.
Near us is Rodman Slough, a mile-long finger in Clear Lake that is reputed to be some of the best bird watching in Northern California. With over 200 types of birds paying the area a visit throughout the year there's never a bad time to paddle through there and don't forget your binoculars and camera. The Lake County Land Trust also offers guided hikes on the second and fourth Saturdays of each month. It's a fun way to see nature. 

With so many outdoor adventures within just a few minutes of the Featherbed Railroad, you can fulfill your resolution to get healthier in the new year while also spending some alone time with your special someone. Which could result in a whole other type of activity, but this isn't that kind of blog!

Of course all that outdoor activity is going to make time in our relaxing Jacuzzi tubs that much more rewarding!