* Cuyahoga Valley National Park in northeast Ohio

I really only saw a glimpse of Cuyahoga Valley National Park when visiting a friend recently in Ohio. It was a quick drive through the park area near Akron, but covered some ground. The fresh snowfall made for a festive wintry feeling, which has been lacking this season in both Ohio and Maine. I'm sure there are some good summertime hikes through this park.

Visiting as many state and national parks in this country is sort of on my bucket list. Like doing the Appalachian Trail -- I bought a map of the AT when I did some exploring in Shenandoah National Park in the Front Royal, VA area this past September and have it hanging in my kitchen as inspiration to do it. Climbing Mt. Katahdin in Baxter State Park, Millinocket, Maine this summer really planted the seed as it is the northern terminus for the AT. Part of Sugarloaf Mountain, where I work, is on the trail, too, and continues north near my place in Stratton, Maine. I know a few folks who have hiked the entire trail, and I commend them for such a feat! I'm also a bit envious, because I have a feeling I'll only continue to hike the trail in random chunks!

(I will be posting photos from Katahdin and Shenandoah, too!)

* Morse Mountain in Phippsburg, Maine

Can you believe it is December, only days away from Christmas?! I am craving snow and winter hiking like this during a storm at Morse Mountain in Phippsburg, Maine. The trail ends at the beautiful Seawall Beach, though breeds some killer horse flies! At low tide you can attempt to wade across the river to Popham Beach State Park, just to the northeast. "

"The Bates-Morse Mountain Conservation Area is a nature preserve managed by Bates College for environmental research and education. The 500+ acre conservation area fronts over a mile of stunningly beautiful beach and dunes."

* Wolfe's Neck Farm in Freeport, Maine

My friend Jen and I visited the wonderful Wolfe's Neck Farm in Freeport, Maine this September. It is just a quick 20 minute or so drive north of Portland and feels like you're miles up the coast. Aside from the farm, weddings are held here and there is camping and hiking trails along the ocean's edge. A great local escape, if you're in need of one.