Nature's Classroom: Hiking Trails Around Cookeville
If you're in or around Cookeville and looking for a way to unwind, reconnect, or just get a little fresh air, you’re in luck—this area is packed with trails that feel like a nature class you actually want to attend.
Let’s start with a favorite: Burgess Falls State Park. It’s got dramatic waterfalls, sure—but also some seriously beautiful scenery for anyone who likes to pause, observe, and maybe jot a few things down. We’re talking moss-covered rocks, birds flitting through the canopy, and plenty of spots to sit and take it all in.
If you want something a bit more low-key, Cane Creek Greenway is a solid pick. The paved path is great for a slow walk (or a stroller-friendly family outing), and you can still spot wildflowers, turtles, and the occasional deer. It's the kind of place where a short stroll somehow turns into a full-on nature moment.
Here’s a fun idea: next time you head out, bring a tiny notebook—or just open your phone’s notes app—and try nature journaling. No pressure. Just write what you see, hear, or feel. The crunch of leaves, the shape of a shadow, or the sound of a woodpecker doing its thing—it all counts.
Hiking near Cookeville isn’t just about getting your steps in. It’s a chance to slow down and remember that nature has a lot to say—if we’re paying attention.
Want to turn your next hike into a journaling adventure? Try noting:
- 3 things you see
- 2 things you hear
- 1 thing you feel
That’s it. Simple, grounding, and surprisingly powerful.
Walking Through History: Black Power Movements in the Bay Area
The Bay Area isn’t just known for its bridges, tech, or sourdough. It's also a powerful site of Black history—especially when it comes to movements that changed the course of civil rights and community empowerment.
If you’re looking for a way to connect with that history in a meaningful, grounded way, start in Oakland. The city was a central force in the rise of the Black Power movement, and many of the people, places, and stories that shaped the era are still here, echoing in museums, murals, and street corners.
The African American Museum and Library at Oakland (AAMLO) is a must-visit. Tucked inside a historic Carnegie building, this space is more than just an archive—it's a living record of Black excellence, resistance, and community organizing in Northern California. Exhibits showcase everything from the roots of the Black Panther Party to local leaders whose names might not appear in national headlines, but whose work transformed neighborhoods and sparked change.
Want to take it further? Walk through West Oakland, where the Panthers established their headquarters and free breakfast programs for children. You can still see murals that honor their legacy, and if you pause, it’s easy to imagine the energy and urgency that once filled these streets.
This kind of sightseeing isn’t about checking off tourist boxes—it’s about remembrance, reflection, and appreciation. It’s also a way to keep these stories alive, not just in museums, but in everyday awareness.
📍 Pro Tip: Call ahead to AAMLO to find out what exhibits or special events are on when you plan to visit. Some collections rotate, and community conversations or talks are often free and open to the public.
Paddling Through History: Kayaking the San Antonio River
There’s something powerful about moving through water—especially when that water carries the stories of the past. Kayaking the San Antonio River offers more than a scenic paddle. It’s a chance to connect with nature and history at the same time.
Beyond the popular downtown River Walk, the San Antonio River extends into quieter, tree-lined stretches that are ideal for kayaking and paddleboarding. These areas offer peaceful views of cypress trees, herons, and turtles basking on logs. But look deeper, and you’ll find that the river also flows through sites of cultural significance, including historic African American neighborhoods and gathering spaces.
From the East Side’s rich legacy of Black entrepreneurship and community activism to the role of the river in early settlement and resistance, this waterway holds layers of meaning. Paddling here becomes an immersive way to reflect on the contributions of African Americans to the region—often overlooked in mainstream narratives.
Tips for a Meaningful Paddle:
- Start at Confluence Park for a beautiful launch point with environmental art and education features.
- Go with a guided tour to learn more about the area's history and ecosystems.
- Bring binoculars or a camera. This area is full of birds, plants, and architectural details worth pausing for.
- Journal or sketch afterward. Reflecting helps connect the experience to your own story.
Whether you’re gliding solo or paddling with a crew, this river offers a journey through both nature and heritage—a reminder that our waterways are not just routes of recreation, but also of remembrance.
How to Start Birdwatching (Even if You Don’t Know a Sparrow from a Chickadee)
You don’t need to buy fancy binoculars, have a field guide, or even know a cardinal from a crow to start birdwatching. All you need is curiosity... and maybe a few moments of quiet.
Birdwatching (or birding) is a great way to connect with nature, whether you’re in your backyard, on a city street, or walking a trail. It’s accessible, calming, and beautiful.
Here’s how to get started, no experience required:
👀 Just look up. Spend five quiet minutes outside. What do you see? What do you hear?
📱 Try a bird ID app. Free apps like Merlin or Audubon Bird Guide can help you recognize common species.
📝 Start a casual bird journal. You don’t need to know names—just jot down what you observe: color, sound, size, or where you saw it.
🌿 Notice the patterns. Are certain birds more active at specific times of day? Do they return to the same tree?
Birding is a practice in paying attention. The more you watch, the more you’ll see. And as your awareness grows, so does your connection to the natural world around you!
This beginners guide is perfect for first-time birdwatchers, families with kids, or anyone wanting to build a deeper relationship with local ecosystems—no expertise needed.
What to Pack for Your First Family Camping Trip
Camping with family is a special kind of magic—starry skies, s’mores by the fire, and time to really connect. But if it’s your first trip or you’re still new to the whole camping thing, the prep can feel overwhelming. What do you really need? What can you leave behind?
Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered with a go-to packing list designed for comfort, ease, and fun. Whether you're car camping or pitching your tent deep in the woods, here's a list of family camping essentials to make your trip smooth and memorable.
Here’s what to bring for a stress-free camping trip with kids:
✔️ Shelter + Sleep: Tent, sleeping bags, sleeping pads or air mattresses, and pillows (our Nature Nap Comforter is a great all-in-one option!).
✔️ Clothing: Think layers—warm fleece, moisture-wicking shirts, trail pants, and a cozy jacket. Don’t forget extra socks and a hat!
✔️ Meals + Snacks: A simple camp stove or grill, reusable dishes, and all your family’s favorite trail snacks. Pro tip: prep meals ahead of time to make setup easier.
✔️ Essentials: Lantern or headlamps, sunscreen, bug spray, first-aid kit, and wet wipes (trust us on this one).
✔️ Fun Add-ons: Binoculars for birdwatching, a nature journal, games, and marshmallow sticks!
Camping with kids doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right camping gear checklist and a little flexibility, you’ll be making memories in no time.
Don’t Hit The Trails Before Reading This
Your Adventure Awaits! Just registered for an exciting hiking trip? Fantastic! To ensure you have a safe and enjoyable experience, preparation is key. Here's a quick guide to get you ready:
BEFORE YOU GO: PREPARATION IS PARAMOUNT
Fitness Check:
- Assess your current fitness level. If you're new to hiking, start with shorter walks and gradually increase distance and elevation.
- Focus on cardiovascular exercise and leg strength.
Gear Up
- Break in your boots—Don't wait until the trail! Wear your hiking boots on several shorter walks to prevent blisters.
- Check the weather forecast and plan your layers accordingly.
Know the Route
- Familiarize yourself with the trip's itinerary, elevation gain, and trail conditions.
- If possible, research the area and look at trail maps.
Pack Smart
- Create a checklist and start gathering your essentials.
WHAT TO BRING: ESSENTIAL GEAR FOR A SAFE HIKE
Footwear
- Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots or shoes with good ankle support.
- Moisture-wicking socks to prevent blisters.
Clothing
- Layered clothing: a moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating mid-layer (fleece or light down), and a waterproof/windproof outer layer.
- Hiking pants or shorts (depending on weather).
- A hat and gloves or a buff, depending on the weather.
Navigation
- A map and compass (if applicable) or a GPS device/hiking app.
- A fully charged phone (but don't rely on it solely).
Essentials
- A backpack suitable for the length of the hike.
- Plenty of water (hydration is crucial!).
- Snacks and/or lunch (high-energy foods).
- A first-aid kit.
- A headlamp or flashlight (with extra batteries).
- Sunscreen and sunglasses.
- A small multi-tool or knife.
- A whistle.
- Trekking poles are very helpful for many hikers.
Urban Foraging in Atlanta: Connecting with Nature and Heritage
Rediscover the Land, One Leaf at a Time
Atlanta’s green spaces are full of surprises, especially when you start to look at them through a foraging lens. From winding trails in Cascade Springs Nature Preserve to pockets of greenery along the BeltLine, urban nature has a lot to offer for anyone interested in foraging.
Foraging as a Cultural Practice
For generations, Black communities have relied on the land for food, medicine, knowledge, and connection. Foraging wasn’t just a survival skill—it was a way of life, rooted in tradition and deep respect for nature. Today, more people are reconnecting with these practices as a way to nourish both body and spirit.
What Can You Find in Atlanta?
Common finds include:
- wild onions
- muscadine grapes
- blackberries
- dandelion greens
- and even edible mushrooms! 🍄⚠️
It’s important to note, however, that beginners should stick with expert guidance before harvesting anything, especially fungi. Local parks like Constitution Lakes, the South River Trail, and Arabia Mountain are great starting points for those just starting out and looking for guidance.
Getting Started Safely
If you're new to foraging, here are some safety tips to keep in mind:
- Go with a knowledgeable guide or join a local walk.
- Use a field guide, and always double-check what you’re picking.
- Take only what you need, leave the space better than you found it.
- Be sure you’re in an area where foraging is allowed.
Bringing It All Back Home
Whether you’re gathering wild herbs for tea or learning about edible roots from a community elder, urban foraging is a chance to slow down and reconnect with the land, your heritage, and your environment.
Freedom Trail: Exploring Boston’s Black Heritage
A Walk Through History, Right in the Heart of the City
Boston is full of iconic landmarks, but beyond the cobblestone streets and historic buildings lies a deeper story—a story of resistance, resilience, and community. The Black Heritage Trail® is a powerful way to walk in the footsteps of free Black Bostonians who helped shape the fight for freedom.
More Than Just a Tour
This isn’t your average history walk. Along the 1.5-mile trail through Beacon Hill, you’ll discover homes, schools, and churches that were part of a thriving 19th-century Black community. The Boston African American National Historic Site includes key stops like the African Meeting House and the Abiel Smith School—spaces where education, organizing, and advocacy took root.
Highlights Along the Trail
Here are a few stops to look out for:
- The African Meeting House – The oldest Black church still standing in the U.S.
- Smith Court Residences – Former homes of free Black citizens.
- The Phillips School – One of Boston’s first integrated schools.
- George Middleton House – Home of a Black Revolutionary War veteran and community leader.
You can join a ranger-led tour or follow a self-guided map using the National Park Service app—perfect for taking the trail at your own pace.
Why It Matters
This trail reminds us that Black history is American history. Every building, every street corner tells a story of courage, community, and the ongoing fight for justice. It’s not just about the past—it’s about how those legacies live on today.
Tips for Your Visit
- Start at the Museum of African American History for context.
- Wear comfortable shoes—Boston’s brick sidewalks are charming but uneven.
- Bring a friend or family member and reflect together as you walk.
Take the Time to Reflect
Whether you’re local or visiting for the weekend, the Black Heritage Trail is a powerful reminder of what it means to stand up, speak out, and build something lasting. ✊🏽
Birdwatching in Minneapolis Parks
Minneapolis is a hidden gem for birdwatchers. With over 180 parks and green spaces nestled throughout the city, you don’t have to go far to spot something special.
From the sound of robins at sunrise to herons gliding across urban lakes, the Twin Cities are full of birding surprises. Whether you're an experienced birder or brand new to wildlife watching, these parks offer rich opportunities to observe nature up close.
Top parks for birdwatching in Minneapolis:
🦆 Theodore Wirth Regional Park – With wetlands, woods, and open water, this park draws a wide range of species.
🐦 Minnehaha Regional Park – A scenic spot for catching migratory birds near the falls.
🪶 North Mississippi Regional Park – A quiet favorite for birders, especially during spring and fall migration.
Bring a pair of binoculars and your nature journal to jot down the birds you spot, their colors, calls, and behaviors. Apps like Merlin or Audubon can help you ID species on the go.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful solo activity or a new hobby with your kids, urban birdwatching in Minneapolis makes nature more accessible, one bird at a time.
Yoga in Nature: Mindful Movement in Atlanta’s Green Spaces
Move, Breathe, and Be Outdoors
Taking your yoga practice outside may sound simple, but it’s a powerful way to connect with nature and yourself. From Piedmont to Grant Park and the BeltLine, Atlanta’s parks are beautiful and welcoming spots to lay down your mat and tune in to nature.
Why Practice Yoga Outdoors?
Practicing yoga in nature can help you feel more grounded and present. The sounds of wind, birds, and rustling leaves offer a calming backdrop that studios can’t replicate. Plus, it’s a great reminder that wellness doesn’t have to be confined to four walls—sometimes grounding in nature is just what the mind and body needs.
A Community Practice
Many local instructors offer donation-based or free outdoor sessions that center Black wellness and joy. These gatherings are often open to all levels and celebrate community over competition. You don’t need to be “flexible” or experienced—just open to showing up.
What to Bring
A yoga mat or towel, water, and sunscreen are all you need. Some folks prefer to go barefoot to really feel the earth beneath them—this is often called grounding or earthing, which is the practice of connecting your bare feet to the earth. Most outdoor classes take place in the morning or early evening when temperatures are cooler.
Find a Flow That Feels Good
Whether you’re stretching solo or joining a group, yoga outdoors is a chance to breathe deeply, reset, and be fully present. It’s not about perfection—it’s about pausing to care for yourself and connect with nature.