During pandemic our family has been exploring the island we live on with our 3 year old and looking for fun short hikes nearby to enjoy nature.

This map shows a typical urban hike I might take from my apartment on the island of Södermalm in Stockholm, Sweden. I start with the overlook at Monteliusvägen, continue through Mariatorget, the square in my neighborhood, then I continue over to the lookout from Skinnarviks park, where you can see Stadshuset (city hall) and the apartments along Norr Mälarstrand. From there, I head to the allotment gardens located in Tanto park, then a stop by Fabrique bakery where I might pick up a tasty cinnamon bun or fresh loaf of levain bread for an afternoon fika (coffee break). On my way back to my apartment, if it is the weekend, a stop by Röde Orm to pick up a pizza dough for homemade pizza is a must!

This place is special to me because it's my secret winter escape. OK, maybe not so secret as thousands of snowbirds have discovered it as well. I love Tucson not only for the fun breweries, tasty eats, farmers markets, cool shops, and fascinating historical sights but the city is surrounded by nature. To the north you can hike at Catalina State Park and Sabino Canyon, to the east and west you'll find both sections of Saguaro National Park. When hiking you may be surprised to find the desert teems with life like hummingbirds, phainopeplas, hawks, roadrunners, ringtail cats and javelinas. The cactus wren pictured here is the state bird of Arizona. Hope you like my map! :) Come explore the desert!

My home away from home, the British Virgin Islands! Sunday mornings were hiking days and I had a few lucky occasions to join in on the fun. Walks in the rain or even getting caught in the bush without a machete still bring up fond memories. One small hike even brought us to a kayak spot for a little trip around the bay. With the help of our fearless hiking leader, this map was created as the group continues to hike around the island and provide me video and photo updates while being locked in Colorado. I can’t wait for our new adventures!