Hey, Sandpoint, why don't you go take a hike?

October is the perfect time of year for getting out and enjoying the beautiful landscape that surrounds us. The fall colors are at their best and you just can't beat the weather we've been having lately. One of the best ways to take part in it is to go for a hike.

Hiking is a great way to sneak some physical activity into our lives. It is a family and pet friendly activity with great health benefits. Hiking takes walking to the next level. They are both great forms of exercise that prevent heart disease, diabetes, obesity, arthritis, and osteoporosis, just to name a few. Hiking has the additional benefit of forcing us to use stabilizer muscles on uneven terrain. These muscles are the ones we use to prevent us from falling and make other forms of exercise safer.

It also steps up the level of aerobic activity, as hiking on a trail often involves slopes and obstacles for us to work around and over. When hiking at a comfortable 2 miles-per-hour pace, a 150-pound person will burn 240 calories an hour, according to the American Heart Association. That will definitely help burn off some of the Halloween candy that's so tempting at this time of year.

Hiking also proves that exercise doesn't have to be boring. Sometimes it's hard to stick with an exercise routine because that's exactly what it becomes — routine. Shake things up by inviting your family and friends out for a hike. There are all kinds of plants and animals to discover and learn about along the trail. It's fun to explore the outdoors, whether you're a kid or just a kid at heart.

We are so lucky to have a variety of trails for all ability levels here in the Sandpoint area. We have more than 275 miles of trails in our national forests ranging from easy walks to grueling climbs. You can hike to small, secluded lakes for an afternoon of fishing, or hike up to a lookout point to take in one of our breathtaking views.

There are numerous small lakes, bays, rock formations, and views just waiting to be explored. Jewel Lake, Lake Darling, Grouse Creek, Scotchman's Peak, and Chimney Rock are just a few of the many. A great new place to hike is the Mickinnik trail off Woodland Road. This well-marked trail winds its way through old-growth trees and impressive granite outcroppings. It also has a picture-perfect view of Lake Pend Oreille at the top.

Another stunning view is that from Picnic Point at Schweitzer Mountain. It is an easy 3 mile hike round trip from Schweitzer Village, with the payoff of spectacular views of Sandpoint and the lake. Fall is a great time to get up there and check out their trail system. If you do head up the hill or anywhere else at a higher elevation, keep in mind that it's usually five to ten degrees cooler up there this time of year. Make sure you dress appropriately.

If trails with uneven terrain just aren't for you, there are also a variety of paved trails in our area. The Sandpoint to Dover Trail is a great example, as is the Sagle bike and walking path or even the path across the Long Bridge. These trails offer the beautiful scenery and great outdoors, but are a bit kinder to our bodies.

Before you head out, there are a few safety tips that we should all be aware of. Remember the guy who went for a hike in Colorado and ended up having to cut his own arm off to survive? I really don't want that to happen to any of you! The American Red Cross suggests hiking with at least one companion. If going on an extended hike to a remote area, try to get at least four people in your group. This way, if one person gets injured, then one person can stay with him or her while the other two go for help. It's very important to remember that right now is hunting season. This time of year, it's best to stay on designated trails and wear bright clothing.

Your hiking checklist should include comfortable footwear — trail shoes or hiking boots are recommended, as well as comfortable clothing and lots of layers to stay warm when needed. It's always a good idea to apply sunscreen beforehand — the sun can damage our skin no matter what the season. Bring along a bottle of water and a cell phone — even for a short hike. Walking sticks or poles can come in handy on steep terrain, but certainly aren't a requirement.

The fall colors remind us that winter is just around the corner. What better time to get out and enjoy some of Sandpoint's famous scenery while getting some exercise at the same time. There aren't too many warm days left. This week treat yourself and your family to a hike — you won't regret it!