Unforgiving winter weather abates with a sunny pause
Hiking on hills and trails will be today’s special cause
The hiker dresses warmly due to the windy, chilly air
Hoping that his stamina will last without any cares
He looks prepared to attack a vigorous hour-long walk
Knowing that later his body might find a way to balk
The wooded trails in their colorless winter hue
Appearing in a much different look and view
A plump, gray squirrel scurries among fallen logs
Searching for a hasty snack to retain and hog
The shadows look friendly and different today
Walking these trails will seem more like play
The hiker’s pace remains steady and brisk
Feeling stronger without taking on a risk
More travelers arrive at the challenging trails
Experiencing nature’s offering without fail
The journey takes the hiker up the outer route
Seeing barren trees and fallen limbs all about
Nature provides a spiritual place for all to shine
Inspiring anyone who walks this wooded shrine
A young boy’s eyes scan up a very steep hill
Finding a solitary deer brings him a thrill
The pace of the hiker remains steady and true
Tackling the inner trail, he will soon be through
A former homesite greets the hiker’s arrival
Wondering about a family’s long ago survival
The unaccompanied hiker finishes once more
Smiling because his body doesn’t feel too sore