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5 Best Weekend getaways for Florida residents

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Whether you’re a new resident to Florida or have lived there your whole life, there are bound to be sites and locations you have yet to see. While a busy work week may keep you tied down for five days, weekends are the perfect time to get away and visit the great state of Florida. 

Let’s take a look at five of the best weekend getaways that Florida has to offer:

 

  • Columbia County

Florida, known for its humidity and ‘the sunshine state,’ it only makes sense that the number one weekend getaway destination would involve a trip to the Florida Springs. Columbia County is known for its natural freshwater springs as well as their spring-fed pools. 

Here are the multiple water places that are worth visiting in Columbia County:

  • Charles Springs: five acres of heavily wooded land along the Suwannee River.
  • Deep Spring Farm: 22 acres of organic farm gardens, meadows, spring-fed ponds, woodlands, and many different events and tours. 
  • Falling Creek Falls: provides a boardwalk that leads to the observation points that offer views of the creek as well as a path that leads directly to the waterfalls. 
  • Falmouth Springs: one of the shortest rivers in the country, it consists of 450 feet of the river before it disappears underground to a lime rock aquifer. 
  • Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park: features a diving dock and large swimming area, which is great for kids. 

These are just some of the many water places worth visiting in Columbia County. With so many destinations to visit, Columbia County makes a great weekend getaway for those who want to enjoy nature and cool down from the Florida heat. 

 

  • Florida Keys

 

 

For those who are more interested in a road trip, the Overseas Highway, which links to the Florida Keys, is an adventure that you don’t want to miss. This road trip is best when begun in Miami. This way, you have the option to travel the whole 113 miles, which usually takes three hours and includes different stops where you can look at the ocean views. 

The trip ends in Key West, but many people stop at Key Largo to stay in a beachfront resort or in Marathon, which marks the half waypoint. 

Other than a road trip, The Keys also offers the following: 

  • Diving
  • Boating
  • Fishing charters
  • Duval Street
  • Dolphin Research Center
  • Other Florida attractions

Key West has always been known for its Caribbean vibe and laid-back manner, making it the perfect destination for a relaxing, weekend getaway.

 

  • Bahia Honda State Park

Within the Florida Keys, there are many different camping sites worth visiting, including Bahia Honda State Park, which is located near Big Pine Key. Bahia consists of eight different campsites that allow both trailers and tents. There are also boat slips available, although the space is limited. 

Each different campsite offers waterfront views and comes with a private picnic table. Plus, there’s a nature trail that leads to the Old Bahia Honda Bridge–a former overseas highway that offers views of the entire island. 

Some other amenities offered at Bahia include:

  • Fishing
  • Running and biking spaces
  • Wide variety of shorebirds, wading birds, and hawks
  • Scuba diving
  • Snorkeling

When the getaway you’re looking for includes spending the entirety of your weekend in nature, Bahia Honda State Park is a great destination.

 

  • Orlando

 

A weekend trip to Orlando is best spent on a three-day weekend because of the large number of sites to see. If you have three days to spare, here’s a suggested itinerary:

 

  • Day one: would include the Coca-Cola Orlando eye, which offers great views from 400 feet above the ground. From here, you can visit the I-Drive 360 that has multiple stops to offer, including a wax museum, Sea Life Aquarium, Skeletons Museum, and many great restaurants. 

 

 

 

  • Day two: could take you to the theme park capital of the world where you can visit the Wizarding World of Harry Potter as well as Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventures. Plus, there’s Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge and Epcot World Showcase’s lake. 

 

 

 

  • Day three: revolves around Gatorland, which offers the Screamin’ Gator Zip Line and the Kennedy Space Center where there are Astronaut Encounter’s offered several times a day.

 

 

 

  • Sarasota

 

Sarasota, formerly known as the circus town, makes for a weekend full of fun and great beaches. The nickname circus town comes from the fact that Sarasota is the home-town of the Ringling Brothers Circus, whose legacy lives on to this day. 

While in Sarasota, visiting the Ca d’Zan mansion, the former home of John Ringling, as well as the museums dedicated to the history of the circus are a must. 

Beyond its circus history, Sarasota offers shopping centers, hiking, kayaking, prestigious golf courses, high-end restaurants, and so much more. 

Conclusion

There are many options for Florida residents to get away for the weekend–ranging from shopping to amusement parks, from nature to circus towns. Overall, there’s enough entertainment to keep you busy for many weekends to come.

 

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The Best Snacks to Bring on a Hike

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Snacks to Bring on a Hike

Hiking is an enjoyable and rewarding activity, but it can also be physically demanding. To ensure you have the energy to make it to the top of your next peak or trail, you need to bring along snacks that will provide you with sustained energy throughout your hike.

But what are the best snacks for a hike? There are many different factors at play when choosing snacks for a hike: nutritional value, ease of packing and storage, convenience when eating on-the-go, etc.

In this article we’ll discuss what types of snacks are best for a hike, how to choose healthy and nutritious ones that provide energy, ideas for easy-to-pack snacks that don’t require refrigeration or heating, how to store food safely while on a hike as well as tips on when and how often should you eat and drink during your trek. So let’s get started!

How to Choose Healthy Snacks for a Hike

When selecting snacks for a hike, it’s to choose ones that are rich in both carbohydrates and proteins. Carbohydrates will give you energy while proteins help your muscles recover after exercise. Aim to pack snacks that have natural sources of carbohydrates like grains, fruits, vegetables and nuts as well as protein-rich options such as meats, dairy products, beans and legumes. Try to stay away from processed foods with added sugars or artificial ingredients.

Easy-to-Pack Snacks That Don’t Require Refrigeration or Heating

Snacking on the trail doesn’t require any elaborate preparation – there are plenty of delicious snacks that don’t require refrigeration or heating. Here are some great snack ideas for your hike:

  • Whole wheat sandwiches filled with nut butter and sliced fruits or vegetables, such as apples, carrots or cucumbers.
  • Nuts and seeds like almonds, walnuts, cashews, peanuts and sunflower seeds.
  • Fruits like bananas, oranges and grapes are easy to pack and carry along the trail.
  • Energy bars that contain natural ingredients like oats, honey and dried fruits are a great source of energy when you’re on-the-go.
  • Trail mix – a combination of nuts, dried fruit and other snacks makes an excellent hiking fuel.

How to Store Food Safely While on a Hike

When you’re out in the wilderness, it’s important to take steps to properly store your food. This will keep animals away and help to prevent contamination. Here are some tips for storing food safely while on a hike:

  • Pack snacks into sealable plastic bags or containers that can be securely closed.
  • Hang the bags or containers from a tree branch at least 10 feet above ground.
  • Keep food away from your sleeping area by at least 200 feet.
  • When returning home, dispose of any remnants of food in trash receptacles only – never leave them along hiking trails!

When to Eat and Drink During a Hike

In order to stay hydrated and energized on your hike, it’s important to plan ahead. Eating small snacks throughout the day will help keep your energy levels up, so it’s a good idea to pack more than you think you need.

It’s also important to drink plenty of water when out in the wilderness – dehydration can lead to fatigue and impair physical performance. Drink water every 15 minutes while hiking and take regular breaks during the day in order to refuel with food and fluids.

See also: How to Pack for a Day Hike

Benefits of Bringing Good Snacks on a Hike

Having nutritious snacks along your hike has many benefits:

  • It helps maintain your energy levels by providing sustained fuel throughout the day.
  • Nourishing snacks can help to prevent fatigue, muscle cramps and headaches caused by dehydration.
  • Eating regularly helps your body recover quickly after exercise.
  • It’s a great way to stay motivated and focused while on the trail.

Great Snack Options for Hikers

To recap, some of the best snacks to bring on a hike are ones that are nutritionally balanced and easy to pack and store. Some great snack options include: whole wheat sandwiches, nuts and seeds, fruits, energy bars and trail mix. Remember to drink plenty of water throughout the day in order to stay hydrated!

Conclusion

When it comes to packing snacks for a hike, it’s important to choose ones that provide both carbohydrates and proteins. Aim for snacks that are easy to pack and store, such as sandwiches, nuts and seeds, fruits, energy bars or trail mix. Don’t forget to stay hydrated with plenty of water throughout the day!

FAQs

Q: What types of snacks should I bring on a hike?

A: The best snacks to bring on a hike are ones that have both carbohydrates and proteins. Try packing whole wheat sandwiches, nuts and seeds, fruits, energy bars or trail mix.

Q: How often should I drink while hiking?

A: It’s important to stay hydrated while out in the wilderness – aim to drink water every 15 minutes while hiking. Take regular breaks during the day in order to refuel with food and fluids.

Q: What are some benefits of bringing good snacks on a hike?

A: Eating nutritious snacks while hiking can help maintain your energy levels, prevent fatigue and muscle cramps, and aid in recovery after exercise. It’s also a great way to stay motivated and focused!

Q: How should I store food while on a hike?

A: Pack snacks into sealable plastic bags or containers that can be securely closed. Hang the bags or containers from a tree branch at least 10 feet above ground, and keep food away from your sleeping area by at least 200 feet. When returning home, dispose of any remnants of food in trash receptacles only – never leave them along hiking trails!

Q: What are some easy-to-pack snacks that don’t require refrigeration or heating?

A: Some great snack options for a hike include sandwiches, nuts and seeds, fruits, energy bars or trail mix – all of which can be easily packed without the need for refrigeration or heating.

Q: Are there any special considerations when choosing snacks for a hike?

A: Yes – aim to choose snacks that are nutritionally balanced and easy to pack and store. Try to avoid sugary or processed snacks, as these can cause energy crashes. Also, if you’re planning on eating during the hike, make sure that you have plenty of water available in order to stay hydrated!

Q: When should I eat and drink during a hike?

A: Drink water every 15 minutes while hiking and take regular breaks during the day in order to refuel with food and fluids. Eating regularly helps your body recover quickly after exercise, so try to have snacks available throughout the day.

Q: What are some great snack options for hikers?

A: Some great snack options include: whole wheat sandwiches, nuts and seeds, fruits, energy bars and trail mix. Remember to drink plenty of water throughout the day in order to stay hydrated!

Q: What are the benefits of bringing good snacks on a hike?

A: Eating nutritious snacks while hiking can help maintain your energy levels, prevent fatigue and muscle cramps, and aid in recovery after exercise. It’s also a great way to stay motivated and focused while on the trail!

Q: What snacks should I avoid packing for a hike?

A: Try to avoid sugary or processed snacks, as these can cause energy crashes. Also, anything that requires refrigeration or heating is best left at home – aim to choose snacks that are easy-to-pack and store, such as sandwiches, nuts and seeds, fruits, energy bars or trail mix.

Q: How do I choose healthy snacks for a hike?

A: Aim to choose snacks that are nutritionally balanced and easy to pack and store. Try to avoid sugary or processed snacks, as these can cause energy crashes. Choose snacks that provide both carbohydrates and proteins, such as sandwiches, nuts and seeds, fruits, energy bars or trail mix – all of which are easy-to-pack and don’t require refrigeration or heating.

Q: What else should I consider when packing snacks for a hike?

A: Make sure that you have plenty of water available in order to stay hydrated. Also, store your food securely while on the trail by hanging it 10 feet above ground and keeping it away from your sleeping area. Finally, dispose of any remnants of food in trash receptacles only – never leave them along hiking trails!

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What to Consider While Choosing the Right Women’s Motocross Gear?

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Buying the right women’s motocross gear is not a cakewalk!

One of the most important aspects of getting the appropriate gear is knowing what to look for and what to shun when buying dirt bike gear.

It can be helpful to choose the correct equipment for you if you are new to motocross or other dirt-biking activities.

So how can you pick the greatest motocross equipment? You can choose the appropriate women’s motocross gear for your trip using the guidelines and recommendations in this post.

  1. Choose the Right Fit

Neither your clothing nor your accessories should ever be excessively tight or too loose. The equipment should be just snug enough to stay on your body and do its job of protecting you in the event of an accident. Look for adjustable items like pants with an adjustable waist so you can get a better fit.

You should sit down and pretend to be riding the bike as you try the gear on. This is important since it guarantees that the equipment is not uncomfortable or restricts your motions. When you sit down in a riding position, the gear may not appear to be too big on you even though it may first appear that way. You don’t want your clothing, such as your sleeves or your jeans, to ride up, exposing your flesh and raising your chance of getting hurt.

  1. Water Resistance

Your ride will be more convenient if your gear has water-resistance qualities. You can buy separate rain gear or purchase waterproof clothing.

Even with removable waterproof linings, external textiles continue to absorb water, and you will still get wet. They may also heat up, feel uncomfortable, and add weight.

  1. Don’t Overlook its Durability

Women’s motocross pants are often constructed from denier, nylon, or polyester fabric. Both nylon and polyester are incredibly comfortable to wear and dry extremely rapidly. This kind of fabric is durable and retains its quality even after multiple washing. High-denier material is designed to make your possible motocross pants more robust.

  1. Price

When selecting the appropriate equipment for you, the cost is yet another important factor. Most people don’t have an endless supply of money to spend on dirt bike equipment. Some items are worth a little bit more money than others, but you can get away with buying some items on a budget. When purchasing crucial items like helmets, for instance, you get what you pay for, therefore spending more on these items can result in safer products.

Consider how much you can afford to spend, then begin looking at the equipment that is within your spending limit. You can get things that suit your demands and budget range.

  1. Ventilation

Ventilation is a factor that is frequently disregarded when purchasing dirt bike equipment. It might be uncomfortable to ride in something that doesn’t have good ventilation and breathability. This is especially true if you ride during the sweltering summer. Air can flow freely through your gear and be wicked away from your body by materials with good ventilation and breathability. By doing so, you’ll be able to be more comfortable even when the outside temperature is higher.

Conclusion

Considering these factors will help you choose the right motocross gear for women that may not only offer maximum protection but perfectly cater to your needs and budget. Always remember to be safe!

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Off-Season ATV Maintenance

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When dealing with vehicles, proper maintenance goes a long way toward preventing unnecessary expenses and ensuring the vehicle’s longevity; an ATV is no different in this regard. However, knowing how to take care of your ATV is arguably more important for many reasons, including safety. ATV maintenance during “riding” season is relatively easy. Still, things usually take a different turn once the riding season is over.

Unfortunately, most people often forget to undertake proper ATV maintenance during winter, and as you would expect, they mostly end up paying dearly for it once it’s ATV season again, as their quads are usually significantly damaged.

Do you have an ATV? If you do and you’re looking for tips on how to carry out proper off-season ATV maintenance, read on to discover some of the best ways to ensure your ATV remains in perfect condition all season long.

Garages and ATV Covers

The first thing you’ll want to put on your ATV maintenance checklist is shelter and storage location. As you well know, your ATV is as much a vehicle as your car is. Basically, this means that just as your car requires shelter to protect it from weathering, especially during winter, your ATV also requires the same. You could even argue that providing shelter or cover for your ATV is even more important than doing the same for your car. You should also note that shielding your ATV from direct exposure to sunlight during summer is also important because the sun can also damage your ATV when you leave it exposed for too long.

If you have a garage, you should ensure to park your ATV inside it to effectively shield it from weathering damage. However, the fact remains that not everyone has access to a garage, and even if you did, your garage would only protect your ATV from “some” of the effects of weathering, not all. So, if you have an ATV, you should consider getting an ATV cover. ATV covers are designed to effectively shield your ATV from harsh environmental effects, ensuring they’ll remain in excellent condition regardless of the weather.

You may be thinking, “Why can’t I just use a random blanket or cloth from my home to cover my ATV?” The answer is simple; those clothes and blankets are not designed for ATV protection. If you use them, you’ll have water building up under them, eventually leading to mold and mildew growth, causing even more damage. With ATV covers, on the other hand, water under the cover will always evaporate quickly, so you can be sure your quad-wheeler will remain perfectly dry and mold-free. In addition, their unique design means you’ll be able to use ATV covers all year round, indoors and outdoors, to protect your ATV from the effects of weathering effectively.

Check Air Filter

Access to clean air is crucial for your ATV to function properly, and if your ATV’s air system is contaminated, it could lead to ATV engine issues. Therefore, you must ensure to check your ATV air filter system from time to time during your quad maintenance to ensure that no small animals or insects have made nests in your filter system. You’ll also want to ensure no dirt or debris clogs your air filter. To do this, simply locate the air filter cover (you should find it in the back of your ATV, under the bed). Once you’ve seen it, take off the cover and then look inside to be sure it’s clean.

Battery Maintenance

Another ATV maintenance task you’ll want to add to your ATV service checklist is battery evaluation and maintenance. Just like a regular car, ATV batteries become less effective or damaged over time when the ATV isn’t used, especially after exposure to cold or freezing weather. So you should ensure to start your ATV from time to time and just let the battery charge to ensure it doesn’t become dead before spring. In addition, you should know that there are different types of ATV batteries on the market, and some are more suited to cold temperatures than others. So you’ll also want to ensure you get the best cold weather ATV battery you can find if you plan on leaving the battery in the ATV all winter long. On the other hand, you could opt to remove the ATV’s battery and connect it to a trickle charger that will help ensure you don’t end up having a dead battery by spring; which is what will likely happen if you just remove the ATV’s battery and drop it somewhere in your home or garage.

Change Engine Oil

An engine oil change is a regular part of every automobile maintenance and should be part of your ATV maintenance checklist. You should always check your ATV’s engine oil state, especially if you haven’t used the ATV in a long while. This is because debris and dirt might have somehow gotten into your oil filter, and this will make the engine oil sticky and thick. Running your ATV with this oil content will likely result in engine damage, and fixing a damaged ATV engine will undoubtedly cost you a significant amount of money. So instead of dealing with lousy engine problems, simply make sure to swap out the bad oil for quality, fresh engine oil.

Tire Check

If you have a car, you’ll most likely notice that when you leave it parked for an extended period, the tires will tend to lose pressure and go flat. The same applies to an ATV, so proper tire care is essential to proper four-wheeler maintenance. You’ll want to check your tire pressure levels periodically during the off-season. If they’re lower than what they should be, you could opt to use a tire pump to get them back in the proper condition. Also, keep an eye out for damaged or worn-out ATV tires so you can replace them before riding the ATV again.

Other ATV maintenance tips you should add to your ATV maintenance checklist include the following:

  •   Check coolant and gas states to ensure they’re free from dirt and debris.
  •   Tighten ATV tire bolts before riding.
  •   Check engine belt condition.

 

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