Ready to Soar in the New Year? Get Active Outdoors in Beaumont!
The crisp air of a new year often brings with it a renewed sense of purpose and a desire for positive change. For many, this means a renewed focus on health and wellness. And what better way to kickstart a healthier you than by embracing the great outdoors? Beaumont offers a wealth of opportunities to get moving and explore the natural beauty that surrounds us.
Why Get Outdoors?
Spending time in nature offers a plethora of benefits for both our physical and mental well-being. Studies have shown that spending time outdoors can significantly reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. The exposure to sunlight helps regulate our circadian rhythms and increases the production of vitamin D. Regular outdoor activity can strengthen your cardiovascular system, improve bone density, and boost your immune system. Fresh air allows for deeper breaths, improving lung function and overall health. Experiencing the wonders of the natural world fosters a deeper appreciation for our environment and helps us to feel proud of our community and city. Connecting with nature can cultivate a sense of awe and wonder, reducing feelings of isolation and increasing feelings of interconnectedness. Studies have shown that spending time in nature can enhance cognitive function, including memory, attention, and creativity. Plus, going for a walk outside is free!
Beaumont offers a diverse range of outdoor activities for all ages and fitness levels. Take a closer look and you're sure to find an activity that is perfect for you!
- Hit the Trails:
- Tyrrell Park: This expansive park features a variety of trails, ranging from easy paved paths to more challenging wooded trails.Bring your bike to explore the scenic loop or enjoy a leisurely stroll.
- Cattail Marsh: Just inside Tyrrell Park is Cattail Marsh, a 900-acres of scenic wetlands along with a boardwalk that features two covered platforms, providing access to incredible views of the wetlands’ abundant wildlife. Enjoy 6 miles of trails to hike, bike, or run! Plus, free yoga is offered every Saturday morning from 9:30am-10:30am!
- Big Thicket: The Big Thicket National Preserve consists of nine land units and six water corridors encompassing more than 108,000 acres. Approximately 40 miles of hiking trails wind through Big Thicket National Preserve, allowing hikers to observe many different ecosystems.
- Embrace the Water:
- The Neches River offers a variety of opportunities for water-based activities. Kayak or canoe and explore the river's serene backwaters, or try your hand at fishing.
- Discover Local Parks and Gardens:
- Wuthering Heights Park: This park features a 1.01 mile jogging trail. Numerous trees offer shade while jogging and provide ample opportunity to see birds and other wildlife. Enjoy the numerous benches to rest and relax in the outdoors.
- Rogers Park: This park features both a regular playground as well as a water playground. In addition, the park includes two basketball courts, four lighted tennis courts and a softball field. Rogers Park also has a community center, restrooms, picnic areas and covered shelter spots.
- Beaumont Botanical Gardens: This historic park features a beautiful rose garden, a scenic lake, and a variety of walking paths, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing afternoon.
If you're looking for a unique hobby that combines exercise with a touch of nature observation, consider birding! Beaumont is a haven for birdlife, offering diverse habitats that attract a wide variety of species.
- Get started:
- Purchase a pair of binoculars – a good starting point is a pair with 8x or 10x magnification.
- Download a bird identification app like Merlin Bird ID or eBird. These apps can help you identify birds by sight or sound, and even keep track of your bird sightings.
- Visit a local birdwatching hotspot. Tyrrell Park and Cattail Marsh are excellent locations for birdwatching, offering a variety of habitats and opportunities to spot a wide range of species.
- Schedule a tour! Cattail Marsh offers weekly tours with our friendly and knowledgeable staff members that can point out various birds and other wildlife.
So, what are you waiting for? Lace up your shoes, grab your binoculars, and explore the great outdoors in Beaumont! Let's make 2025 the year of health, happiness, and outdoor adventures.
