New Guide to Farmington Parks and Trails

Have an aversion to getting on the treadmill? Don't feel too guilty. Running on a treadmill was originally developed as an alternative form of punishment for the death penalty, back in the 19th century. You're watching the local news network brought to you by Serious Texas Bar-B-Q and Traegers. I'm Wendy Graham Settle.

A far more pleasant way to get in your steps is to Step Out. The name of a new guide to Farmington Parks and walking trails. The guide features 25 city parks that have walking trails and grades them by accessibility.

So this trail here in Kiwanis Park, not only is this a beautiful park, but this trail is very accessible for everybody. This also connects up to Becklin Park through the north side of the park. So you can make very adjustable for whatever your skill set or desire is.

The most difficult are river trails, just because they're the longest, at more than eight miles for a worthy hike. It turns out where a person walks is important. Florence Williams, author of the Nature Fix: Why nature makes us happier, healthier and more creative, says humans are hardwired to spend time outdoors because we're designed to look at, hear and smell the gifts of nature. Local pianist composer, Sheldon Pickering, along with his daughter Avery, find inspiration along their afternoon walks at Berg Park.

I think it's just generally a peaceful place. It's kind of a respite from the rest of the hustle and bustle of town. It's right in the middle, but you still feel so far away. And I think being this close to the river is really refreshing and just peaceful anytime of year, to hear that running water, beautiful cottonwoods and the wildlife. It's just a delightful place and trail.

Sponsored by San Juan Regional Hospital, Step Out is a 40 page booklet that also includes tips on starting a walking program or a walking group and instructions on how to defend yourself and your pet against injury and dehydration. And it even has a walking log to keep track of your steps. You won't need a GPS.

I will say most of the trails, as you can see within this park, are you know maybe a mile two miles at the most. So there's not a lot of fear of getting lost and they're all within the city of Farmington.

Choose a charming park near your neighborhood and walk this summer next to a stream or river. It will lower your risk for heart disease and high blood pressure. And it'll improve your disposition.

You know, it's a great place to come if you're feeling reflective, feeling a little sad and if you're feeling happy, it's just a great place to just be in nature and be around your community and connect.

The guide can be found at FMTN.org/walking trails. You can read it online or print it as a PDF. Thanks for watching this edition of the Local News Network serving Northwest New Mexico and Southwest Colorado. I'm Wendy Graham Settle.

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