Freehiking is the Ultimate Freedom

“You haven’t lived until you’ve hiked naked! . . . Hiking nude may be the ultimate experience of freedom. Nothing between you and the air allows you to totally relax and become one with the environment.” - InternationalNudist

Beachwalking Nude

“For me, the sheer joy, and it is like childhood again in a way, of roaming around totally buck naked without a care, is such a draw that I do seek it whenever possible. That is why beachwalking in the buff recently was so wonderful. I had a bottle of water in my hand, but nothing on my body whatsoever, below the cap and sunglasses. Three blissful hours, and thanks to the 30-weight sunscreen, no burn.” - Doodndanood

Psychology and the Shock of Nudity

“The first step to effectively educating textiles about naturism is to understand how they think about it. . . This is how I believe the chain goes, when a textile (Alice) catches another textile (Bob) in the nude: (1) Alice sees a naked body, and is a bit surprised but realizes that naked bodies do exist and are generally harmless. (2) Bob is completely embarrassed: Body shame, bad luck of being naked at that moment, feeling vulnerable, whatever. Bob's life is changed forever, or so it seems. (3) Alice feels guilty for embarrassing Bob, conveys that she's very sorry. Both pretend that it never happened, and both feel bad about it in separate ways.

Naturists have a different attitude in the second step: You've seen me naked? Good! That means I don't have to get dressed next time you come over...if that's OK? Since the middle step is different, the final step should never happen. Why should Alice feel bad about seeing Bob naked, if Bob didn't care at all about it? Alice is not guilty of embarrassing Bob. . . A similar thing can be said about meeting a hunter while freehiking . . . Getting textiles to not feel guilty about seeing nudity would be a good step for general acceptance. . . Maybe we're wrong about how we notify others? The signs at Haulover warn "ATTENTION - BEYOND THIS POINT YOU MAY ENCOUNTER NUDE BATHERS" Perhaps the right approach is something like "There's friendly naked people beyond this sign, and we won't mind if you stop over and chat with us!” – The Academic Naturist

Hiking Naked

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Freehiking in Australia

“Just over a week ago, ten of us . . . met at Waterfall railway station for a [nude] walk along Kangaroo Creek in the Royal National Park. Despite the wet weather that the cyclones had brought, the day had turned out to be quite warm and sunny. We headed down the Uloola Falls track, but very quickly turned off to go cross country. We got into uniform [nude] and continued down a narrow to a beautiful pool, with waterfall . . . We stopped for morning tea, and had a chance to cool in the refreshing water. We continued on our way with the track getting rougher. The bushwalk became more of a bushbash which added to the challenge. We stopped at another waterhole for lunch. The water was cool and refreshing, and much welcome in the heat of the day. Working our way along Kangaroo Creek, we'd stop occasionally the enjoy the cool waters - some of the purest in the park. Finally we arrived at Karloo Pool where it was time to say goodbye to Kangaroo Creek. Heading up the track, we finally arrived at Heathcote railway station. This was the most challenging [nude] walk we had done, but with such a great turn out, it was a great day.” - George "Jorgi" Zamroz

Nothing Beats Walking Naked

“Nothing beats the freedom of walking naked in the open air, unencumbered by the restrictive grip of clothing. Nothing. Not even gravity. I felt like a kid again.” – Tracy Issacs

Naked Gardening - Olive Dell Nature Trail

PJ and I spent the day Monday (2/15/2010) gardening at Olive Dell. Naked gardening is heavenly work!

We erected eight signs along the Olive Dell Nature Trail and Grandkids Gulch (which involved some very pleasant freehiking), and did some naked weeding and spraying in the Park. A ten year old boy dropped by (unconsciously naked) as we were preparing signs, and volunteered to help us carry and erect signs along the trail. He only lasted through one trip up the mountain, but he was excited to be the first kid at Olive Dell to walk Grandkids Gulch - I’m sure he won’t be the last – it’s a great trail for naturist kids.

We erected eight signs along the trails on Monday.

Later a six-year old naturist stopped by the Park looking for some friends. We saw them later playing in the upper meadow.

Wednesday afternoon we spent more time nude gardening and working on trails. I finished the Donkey Meadows Trail and cleared Hidden Hollow.

We just love getting away to Olive Dell to garden and build trails in the buff. Naked gardening is our escape. Sometimes it seems the only thing that keeps us sane with all the pressures at work.

Here is a link to photos of the Olive Dell Nature Trail: http://imageevent.com/kenandjane/olivedellnaturetrail

I’ll post additional photos of the trail as more is completed. It’s fast becoming the best nature trail at any naturist resort in the west. I’ve spent several days talking with a botanist at the University of Redlands about the vegetation so we can mark it and help others identify it. Perhaps he and his family will visit the trail in the future.

Is anyone interested in visiting and taking a hike with us?

Thank God for a Glorious Day Freehiking

“The sunny weather and upper 60s drew me to . . . Symphony Lake Trail for an amazingly blessed hike. . . Cautious, and yet drawn by the warm sun, I first hiked shirtless for awhile. The breeze was light, the yellow fireball was intense, and there was hardly a cloud in the sky. Sweat began mixing with my suntan oil and DEET. My body and mind were ready to be naked in the sun. . . So, just a few hundred yards from the start of the trail, I began the naked leg of my hike. . . This was my first time hiking all the way to the lake. Much boulder-hopping fun followed the second, smaller bridge on the way. Outside the area's ruinous shelter I rested, sunning my sweating bare flesh on the rocks and eating my lunch. On one side of me, I could see Symphony Lake, calling my toasted body for a cold dip. On the other, across the deep valley of more water, called Eagle Lake, I could barely see and hear the outdoorsy, 20-something gentlemen I had passed earlier. They were far away, about the size of a grain of rice. I continued on to the lake. . . I realized I was not alone. A fisherman, who must have hiked in while I'd been eating lunch . . . was sitting on the lake-side boulders some fifty yards away. Too late to be shy now, and far enough away not to devastate, I took off my boots, my last bit of attire, and went in . . . the cold completely equalized the hot temperature of my body. After drying in the air on the shore, I dipped and dried again before hiking back. . . The entire way back, I kept thanking God for such a glorious day.” - AKBare

Short Winter Freehiker Makes All The Difference

“I offered to do an errand for a friend the other day since I have the 4wd and the road that needed to be traveled on was still snow covered. I was wearing my usual, boots, wool sox and Carheart coveralls. . . I had to pass the area where I took my New Years Day hike a few years ago and to my surprise someone had cleared the parking spaces. So since I was naked under my coveralls I stripped them off in the truck and headed into the pines. The sun was so warm on the skin now I know why our ancestors worshiped it as a god. There was just enough wind to blow some snow around and tingle the skin slightly. It was only a short fifteen to twenty minute trek but it made all the difference in my demeanor.” – NudeWalker

Naked Encounters with Wildlife

“I don't think that naked encounters with wildlife are a coincidence. When we hike naked we are usually solo, without smells of detergents, and we are not a threat or predator. We become one with nature and nature becomes us. Once we leave the textile man made world and return to what should be our natural state we gain acceptance with our wild friends.” – NudeWalker

Wildlife is Not Bothered by Freehikers

“. . . about 2 weeks ago I headed out for my short naked night hike on the trail out our back door when, in the course of my eyes adjusting to the darkness, I realized I wasn’t alone. What I found were several deer in the back yard. Even though our local herds are comfortable with humans since they don’t get shot at in our vicinity, they normally don’t let you get very close before they scamper off. I intentionally walked toward them and when I got within about 15 feet of the closest one the headline went through my mind “Naked man gored to death by buck deer in his backyard”. Obviously the headline didn’t happen, but I was truly astounded at how close they let me get before they meandered off. I’ve noticed similar other instances in the wilderness with smaller animals while on naked hikes. Whether its curiosity or they just don’t perceive us as a threat when we’re naked, there is definitely a difference.” – Happy Hikers

Working Naked on our Park and Trails

Work has been so busy lately that it’s been difficult to take time and report on our nude activities, but PJ and I haven’t missed the chance to be nude. This past Weekend, and Wednesday afternoon, we spent our time working on Dellmaze Park and on the Olive Dell Nature Trail - clearing brush, digging, raking, making signs, weeding, etc.

I also finished a new trail we’ll call Grandkids Gulch, dedicated to our 15 grandkids. PJ was feeling bad that we had named two trails (Baily’s Bottom and Easton’s Expressway) after our grandkids, but didn’t have a trail for the others, and 13 more trails seemed a bit obsessive, so I decided to make one for all. In our opinion, Grandkids Gulch is the best trail of all, wandering through groves of tall brush, fantastic rocks, and hidden valleys. Kids will love its hidden mystery.

We hope our grandkids might visit us to walk the trail someday. If only that could happen . . .

Wednesday afternoon I took a series of photos of the trails. PJ says photos of trails are boring because viewers won’t be able to appreciate what they’re seeing, but I thought I’d post them anyway. Without question, it would be much more interesting to visit Olive Dell to walk the trails naked – something Becky the owner’s wife does every morning – but until you can visit us this link takes you to photos of these two fun naked trails:

Olive Dell Nature Trail Photos: http://imageevent.com/kenandjane/olivedellnaturetrail

Grandkids Gulch Photos: http://imageevent.com/kenandjane/grandkidsgulchtrail

Why Didn't People Climb Mountains For Fun?

I've been way too busy to write since my last post on Monday, so I'll post a nice quote, and write something original tomorrow.

Ken

“The first written account of a European climbing a mountain merely for pleasure appears to be by Petrarch in 1336. Why was such an account so long in coming? Historians . . . have missed the point. People didn't climb mountains for fun because so few of them thought to do it Nude!” – www.bodyfreedom.org

Freehiking is a Very Soulful Experience

“For me, freehiking is a desirable enough goal that I'll endure some stress to have it. The experience is somewhat different whether I'm in a spot where I know it's OK to be naked or one where I'm taking a small, calculated risk (I'm not so much for big risks, ever. Well, except for the time I got naked at the Great Wall; but, I digress). At a resort with remote trails it's amazing to set off with no cover-up, simply paying attention to nature around me - the sounds, smells, feel of the forest on my all over. The animals are more likely to be curious and not skittish; the rustling leaves talk back to me in a way that they don't when I'm wearing clothes. Likewise on a designated nude beach; eg, had a great 2 mile hike at San Gregorio last fall. There's no stress to begin with, just exuberance. Sometimes I'll just suddenly take off running for a while, from all the energy it creates. Most of my freehiking is done near home in the Northwoods and in remote areas when I travel. I work at finding spots where I'm not likely to meet others - blind trailheads where there are no cars, old logging roads and two-tracks, etc. And I find low-use times. When I find remote spots I always find getting naked irresistible, so I prepare by wearing clothes that are easy to get out of. But I'm still listening for sounds of other people, I carry a cover-up, etc. The experience is always sensuous and rich, but I would say it's more energizing during the naked period and the stress relief comes once I'm done hiking, having had no surprises. The funny thing is that the few times I actually had a surprise (clothed hikers), it never posed a problem. My goal is to keep it that way! Oh yes, freehiking is a very soulful experience. I'm lucky to live where I can do it fairly often.” - Al

Bare Burro 5k Update

Don’t miss out! Registrations are coming in for the Bare Burro 5k - the first nude run held in Southern California. (There will also be nude walkers – PJ and me for instance; we won’t win a medal, but we’ll get lots of sun, have lots of fun, and take home a cool Bare Burro t-shirt for participating!)

Here’s what one registrant says: “I'm looking forward to joining in the fun of this event as my first 5K AND my first nude run! Thanks Olive Dell for creating this great experience.” - Jon
So send your registration in soon and mark the date on your calendar.

The Bare Burro 5k will be held Sunday April 18, 2010, at Olive Dell Ranch, staring at 10:30 am. Come Join in the Fun!

Additional information and the registration form can be found at: http://www.olivedellranch.com/

Or you are welcome to email me with questions: kenfreehiker@yahoo.com

Winter Freehiking the Rocky Mountains

“Got my first freehike of the year on the last week on January. Since I live in the northern Rocky Mountains, I count this as something of an accomplishment. The valley had been suffering a temperature inversion since right after Christmas. With temperatures in the low teens (Fahrenheit) I drove out of town up toward an area of sandstone and scattered trees and shrubs-about 1500 feet higher than town. I was hoping to pass out of the cold, heavier air, and, sure enough, I watched the outdoor thermometer in my vehicle rise quickly to the upper 20's. OK, that is not exactly tropical, and I left the truck in full winter attire. Once I got passed the open area near the highway and into the slick rock, the reflected sun off the rocks immediately warmed me. Before long, I was down to boots, socks, sunglasses, and hat and I was able to comfortably climb all over the rocks for over an hour. It was pure, natural bliss, hopping from rock to rock, avoiding snow banks when possible. Next time, however, I must remember to bring gaiters because there were places where knee deep snow could not be avoided. A little protection on the lower legs would have been nice. . . I am off to a good start!” – Mike

Naturist Activity Reduces Memory Loss

I knew a fellow who quit naturism because he said it made him lazy, just lying in the sun. Not me. Naturist activities motivate me to exercise. Hiking, gardening, and swimming clothed are all okay, but I truly love freehiking, freegardening, and nude swimming, so being a naturist keeps me healthy as well as happy.

With this in mind, consider these thoughts from Dr. Mercola about the value of exercise in reducing memory loss as one ages.

“Moderate physical activity performed in midlife or later appears to be associated with a reduced risk of mild cognitive impairment - and a six-month high-intensity aerobic exercise program can improve cognitive function in individuals who already have the condition. Each year, 10 percent to 15 percent of individuals with mild cognitive impairment will develop dementia, as compared with 1 percent to 2 percent of the general population. Physical exercise may protect against mild cognitive impairment by means of the production of nerve-protecting compounds, greater blood flow to the brain, improved development and survival of neurons and the decreased risk of heart and blood vessel diseases.”

http://fitness.mercola.com/sites/fitness/archive/2010/02/02/the-single-most-important-thing-to-preserve-your-brain-function.aspx

PJ and I manage a senior facility. I suspect our residents would function better mentally as well as physically if they were naturists, and increased vitamin D from the sun would help as well. (Too bad, I don’t suppose I’ll ever be able to demonstrate this with my residents.)

Anyone Else Enjoy Freegardening?

We had little free time this week to visit our happy place at Olive Dell Ranch. We spent Monday freegardening in Dellymaze Park. While weeding areas on the Olive Dell Nature Trail I noticed an interesting area for a new trail. PJ and I had discussed dedicating a trail to all of our grandkids, so I was soon bushwacking away on a new Grandkids Trail.

Wednesday afternoon I continued working on this new trail. It will take several more days to finish, but the Grandkids Trail will be very interesting when it is done. I hope they all walk it some day.

I love freegardening - dirt, scratches, bumps, everything about it.

Anyone else enjoy freegardening?

Sweet Memories of Freehiking in the Rain

“Some of my sweetest naked hiking memories from this past season involved hiking in the rain. The sights, sounds, and smells one encounters in the woods in the rain are intoxicating. . . you also don't see as many people on the trail. I have been entirely warm and comfortable hiking naked in the rain in temperatures ranging from the mid forties (F) on up. In cooler weather, it seems that the layer of sweat and rain forms an insulating layer that functions much like in a diving wetsuit. And your body is not fighting the wicking and evaporative cooling effect of wet textiles against your skin. Also gone is the frustration of trying to keep textiles dry with clumsy raingear. My tactic in cooler wet weather, when possible, is to hike naked, keeping my gear dry inside my pack, ready to put on when I stop moving for an extended time.” – FreewalkerMA

Response to "Reintroduce a Healthy Naturist Revolution"

In response to my previous blog “Reintroduce a Healthy Naturist Revolution”, AllNudist wrote:

“Yes, I suppose it would be nice if all nudist/naturists were Beautiful People but alas, most tend to just be people who are willing to accept others while asking to be accepted for themselves. Without them there wouldn't be many nudist/naturist venues left.

"By definition, naturists are physically active, eat healthy food, avoid unhealthy habits, seek mental and spiritual advancement, and encourage others to understand so they also live in true health."

Excuse me but, by who's definition? Try as I might I have been unable to find that definition anywhere except as a personal opinion, usually put forth by bloggers pushing health, yoga, T.M. or such other personal life choices they have made for themselves. To me this sounds like one Democrat telling us what all Democrats should believe in order to be called a Democrat. Or Republican, or Christian, etc.You are certainly entitled to express your own opinion but it's disingenuous to suggest that some 'higher source' decrees it to be so, let alone that it's required to be considered a true 'naturist'.Good posting, makes people think!”

I want to thank AllNudist for this comment because it gives me a reason to expand my thoughts about naturism and health.

First, I realize that naturism is not just for the “beautiful” people. (I certainly don’t fit that category.) In fact, one of the first things people learn from naturism relates to “Positive Body Image” – every body is different, yet beautiful. But positive body image should just be a starting point, a foundation for improvement. What does body image have to do with not working to improve the health of your own body? Understanding body image, should naturists just accept their current health status, lie back and bask in the sun, never exercise, take up any bad habit that comes along, and kill themselves through gluttony? I think not. Naturism should inspire us to better physical, mental, and spiritual health.

Consider the history of naturism. It began in Germany in the 1920’s as a “health” movement. In 1922 a young Berlin gymnastics teacher, Adolf Koch, opened the Adolf Koch Institute, with a program that included weekend nude hikes, indoor nude exercises during the week, and proper nutrition. This focus on “health” helped it quickly expand to become the Stadtbad, a huge public gymnasium with a swimming pool and bath house. Men, women, and children mingled nude. “Health” classes consisted of two to three thousand people of all ages. Soon there were branches in other German towns and cities and the movement spread quickly to other countries, crossing to the U.S. within a few years, again with an emphasis on “health”..

In fact, the French, where the term “naturism” originated, emphasized “health” more than nakedness.

So from its beginning, naturism was a “health” movement. Neglecting the physical, mental, and spiritual health aspect of naturism is the change, not trying to re-emphasize health in naturism.

Perhaps I over-reached by use the word “wrong” instead of “unhealthy”. Wrong may sound too judgmental.

How’s this:

It’s “unhealthy” for naturists to just laze around a pool or on a beach in the sun to the exclusion of swimming and freehiking and nude gardening and similar healthy activities. Naturism is not just sunbathing – far from it.

It’s “unhealthy” for naturists eat such unhealthy foods. A restaurant at a resort should serve much more than burgers and fries and sugar-crammed sodas. Naturists are healthy eaters.

It’s “unhealthy” for naturists to gather together to drink and smoke as if getting naked somehow encourages these obviously unhealthy practices. On the contrary, naturism discourages these nasty habits.

It's “unhealthy” for naturists to neglect mental and spiritual stimulation, and hide from others. Demonstrating that they are different, not "sheeple", by stepping outside the constraints of society and culture, and rejecting the negative effects of "textilism" and sexual perversion, naturists should be seekers after all truth and leaders and teachers and missionaries.

I accept that all of these healthy behaviors and attitudes are important to “real” naturism, and that neglecting them has been an unhealthy change to the practice of naturism. It’s time again to re-emphasize “health” in naturism.