Two Recreational Activities That You Could Do in the Temperate Deciduous Forest

Recreational activities abound at America's temperate deciduous forests. Lush forests with mature trees once stretched from coast to coast in the United States. Timber harvesting and the invention of the railroad caused thousands of acres to be lost, but there are still plenty of remote and serene areas to escape to today. Muscle-powered activities of all types are generally acceptable inside temperate deciduous forests -- even ones which are contained inside national parks.

  1. Appalachian Mountains

    • The Appalachian Mountains are one of the largest remaining temperate forest systems in the North America. This eco-system stretches from Alabama to Newfoundland, Canada. The entire length of the Appalachian Trail can take months to traverse. Thru-hikers are those who embark on the 2,180-mile journey and complete the task during one excursion. Trail section hiking is far more common due to the time restraints on most outdoor enthusiasts. Horseback riding is also possible on many sections of the Appalachian Trail and throughout the forest system. Major bridle trail heads exist along the Blue Ridge Parkway and Peaks of Otter Trails at mile post 86. The Blue Ridge Parkway is accessible in both Virginia and North Carolina.

    Great Smokey Mountains

    • Explore the natural habitats of native wildlife and breath taking waterfalls in the Great Smokey Mountains. While hiking and horseback riding are popular activities at this national park, bicycling and fishing are equally popular muscle-powered pursuits. Cyclists can peddle around the Gatlinburg Trail, Lower Deep Creek Trail and the Oconaluftee River Trail. The landscape is too rugged for designated mountain bike trails inside the park but adjacent national temperate forest and recreational lands just outside the park do offer mountain biking trails. Maps are available at the Chattahoochee National Forest, Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area and the Cherokee National Forest. Anglers will delight in the success of the trout restoration program in the region. Fishing opportunities exist at Bear Creek and Lynn Camp Prong.

    Shenandoah Mountains

    • Shenandoah Mountains National Park in southern Virginia is a haven for outdoor adventurists. In addition to 500 miles of hiking trails, the park boasts multiple wildlife viewing areas. Children can earn a "Junior Ranger" patch by completing discovery activities and identifying animals during the visit. Thanks to an extensive re-introduction of native wildlife, visitors can view a multitude of the creatures which inhabited the forest during the early 1700s. The National Park's "EarthCaching" program is a family-friendly geo-caching activity. The program has a virtual twist where participants do not search for hidden treasure but geological and natural features.

    Safety Tips

    • Regardless of which muscle-powered activity or park you choose, safety should always be a top priority. Make sure to thoroughly read all of the park's rules before embarking on an excursion. Forested areas typically are monitored by park or forest rangers, but you should still pack your own first aid kit and emergency supplies. It can take hours or even days for a ranger to know a person is missing and find her, so come prepared to spend the night in the woods.