Whistling Arch .4 fairly easy miles out and back

I cannot believe it has been almost 2 months since I have been on a hike! Life has slowed back down a little bit now and when I saw the weather for this week I knew this was my chance! First thing I want to do though, is introduce you to the newest member of my family! After losing my 13 year old doggie back in August, we finally went to a rescue shelter last week and adopted a puppy. Meet Ranger y'all. 

This was his first of many hikes with me and he did great! I wanted a short and fairly easy trail for him and that is why I chose Whistling Arch. But don't let that stop you from hiking it. As you can see below, it's a well worn yet pretty path. The trail itself is just shy of half a mile and took me right around 20 minutes out and back. 

There are just a few areas where the tree roots and rocks are part of the path. Be careful of the slippery leaves in those areas. But even with all our rain, it wasn't that muddy. And I'll tell you what, if you can stand the cold, winter is an amazing time to hike. The woods are quiet and the trails are not busy at all. And you don't get near as sweaty! 

I just love the arches in the Red River Gorge! I really think I could sit and stare at the rock formations all day! It has been years since I have hiked this trail so it was kinda new to me again. And even now, when the leaves are fallen and everything seems dull and bleak, the Gorge is still very much Gorgeous! This is a wonderful little hike.

A great New Years resolution could be to get outside and take more hikes! Last year I did a 365 mile challenge. I walked, hiked, biked or kayaked at least 1 mile each day. I'm really thinking of doing that again this year. Anyone want to join me? It would be great if you could share pictures of your hikes in the comments! 
I want to wish you all a Merry Christmas! May your new year be full of happiness and fresh air! So get outdoors and take a hike! Grab that camera, have fun and be safe!
Remember...
'Of all the paths you take in life, make sure a few of them are dirt.' - John Muir