16 June, 2025

River Place Nature Trail, Austin - All things you need to know behore you hike

If you're looking for one of Austin's most challenging and scenic hikes, look no further than River Place Nature Trail. This shady gem is not just a walk in the park—it's a full-body workout packed with elevation, steps, and beautiful nature all around.

Located in West Austin, this 6-mile out-and-back trail (yes, that’s 2,763 steps total!) is perfect for hikers who want to break a sweat, enjoy nature, and explore one of the best-maintained urban trails in the city.

At the beginning of trial



🌿 Trail Overview

River Place Nature Trail is made up of three connecting trails:

  • Panther Hollow Trail
  • Little Fern Trail
  • Canyon Trail

πŸ’ͺ If you're up for a serious workout, try the Panther Hollow + Canyon Trail combo. It's about 3 miles one way and definitely the most intense section. Expect stairs, hills, and lots of breaks!

Trail Map




πŸš— How to Get There + Parking Tips

We parked at Woodland Park, which has limited free parking but thankfully, includes restrooms and water fountains.

There are a few other entry points with street parking options if Woodland Park is full. Since the trail has multiple entrances and exits, some hikers do a one-way and call an Uber or Lyft back to the starting point—great if you don’t want to double back.


πŸ”₯ How Hard Is River Place Nature Trail?

Let’s be real—this trail is hard! But doable.

πŸƒ‍♀️ Experienced hikers can likely complete it in 2.5 hours

🚢‍♂️ Beginners or families (like us) might need 3 to 3.5 hours with breaks

Even though it’s challenging, the trail is shaded for most of the way, making it bearable even in warmer weather.

Tip: Hiking with kids? Bring more water, rest often, and pack snacks. Our family (with elementary and middle school kids) did it in about 3 hours and 20 minutes, with plenty of stops.






πŸ’΅ Entry Fee Info

Depending on the day and time, there may be a $10 per person fee.

Free after 3 PM or on weekdays

πŸ’° Fee usually applies on weekends/ busy days


🧳 What to Bring

Don’t hit this trail unprepared! Here's what you’ll need:

  • πŸ₯€ At least 1.5 liters of water
  • 🍎 Snacks or energy bars
  • πŸ‘Ÿ Sturdy hiking shoes with good grip
  • 🧒 Sun hat (a few exposed areas)
  • 🐍 And stay alert—we saw a rattlesnake just a few feet off the trail!


πŸŒ„ What to Expect on the Trail

  • The first 0.25 miles are easy and flat—a nice warm-up
  • The trail follows a shaded, tree-lined path with springs and streams
  • After that, it’s stairs, elevation gain, and even some viewpoints
  • Just when you think it’s over, more steps await! The middle section gets tough.
  • The return hike feels quicker since you know what to expect.




We started our hike around 5 PM and finished by 8 PM. Late afternoon is ideal—not too hot and fewer people on the trail.






🧼 Facilities

  • 🚻 Clean restrooms at Woodland Park
  • 🚰 Water is available before you start
  • πŸ“΅ Limited cell signal in some areas, so download a map ahead of time or take a photo of the map at the beginning of the trail


Final Thoughts

If you're up for a challenge and want to explore one of the best nature trails in Austin, River Place Nature Trail should be on your list. It’s tough but incredibly rewarding, with peaceful nature, birdsong, and enough steps to make your legs sore the next day.

Perfect for fitness lovers, nature enthusiasts, or anyone looking to escape the city without leaving Austin.

Until next time,




Pin it for later!




28 May, 2025

10 Best Travel Accessories for Moms in 2025

As moms, travel can be both exciting and chaotic. Whether juggling with toddlers, planning road trips, or finally taking that solo getaway, having the right gear makes all the difference. 


Pin for later!





Based on personal experience and hours of research, here are the 10 best travel accessories every mom should pack in 2025.

Note: This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase through them, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.



1. Packing Cubes:  

Stay organized with sets of packing cubes. They help separate kids' clothes, your outfits, and essentials like diapers or meds. No more digging through a messy suitcase!



2. Collapsible Water Bottles

Hydration is key, especially when you’re on the go with children. Choose BPA-free, space-saving bottles that clip onto backpacks or diaper bags.



3. Travel Stroller

 Lightweight and foldable strollers like the Babyzen YOYO or GB Pockit are lifesavers in airports and city tours.



4. Portable White Noise Machine

Help your child (and yourself) sleep better in unfamiliar hotel rooms or Airbnbs with a compact white noise machine.





5. Multi-Port USB Charger:

 Charge your phone, tablet, baby monitor, and Kindle all at once. This is a must-have for long travel days.



6. Travel-Friendly First Aid Kit:

A first aid kit includes bandages, wipes, fever strips, and basic medications. Pre-packed kits are great, but customize them for your family’s needs.



7. Hands-Free Baby Carrier:

Ideal for airport security, hikes, and navigating tight spaces. Look for ergonomic and breathable designs.



8. Compact Travel High Chair:

A clip-on or foldable high chair ensures safe and stress-free mealtime wherever you go.




9. RFID-Blocking Travel Wallet: 

Keep passports, credit cards, and boarding passes secure and organized. Choose a design with multiple slots and zipper protection.





10. Travel Journal or Digital Notepad: 

Jot down travel memories, your child’s firsts, or keep track of expenses. A beautiful way to document your journeys.







Final Thoughts:

These travel accessories have saved me countless headaches and made trips more enjoyable, whether it was a quick weekend road trip or a cross-country flight with my kids.

What are your must-haves? Share in the comments!

Until next time,



23 May, 2025

Mind & Body Boost: 3 Morning Rituals You Can Do in 3 Minutes

Let’s be real—mornings can feel like chaos. You’re getting ready for the office, getting kids ready for school, preparing breakfast, and already running through your mental to-do list. 

But what if you could hit the reset button and give your mind and body a little love—all in just three minutes? Yep, just three. 


Photo by Pixabay: https://www.pexels.com/photo/purple-petal-flower-surrounded-by-green-plants-during-daytime-66288/



These quick and easy morning rituals are made for busy folks like you who want to feel more centered, energized, and ready to take on the day, without adding stress or eating up time.

Whether you're off to work, chasing after kids, or just trying to get out the door in one piece, these tiny habits pack a powerful punch.


3 Morning Rituals You Can Do in 3 Minutes


Pin it for later!




1. 3 questions to ask before you set out for the day

Ask these 3 questions every day to set your mood. You can do it immediately after waking up, or you can keep a journal and just write answers after coffee or after brushing your teeth, or before driving to the office. Or you can simply think of these questions and answer them in your mind. 

What is the most important task that I want to do today / looking forward to?

The answer can be very simple, like I am looking forward to dropping my kid off at school. Looking forward to the bright Sunrise. Looking forward to doing gardening in the evening or going for a walk.

Or my important task for today is the presentation at the office / signing up my kid for soccer before the enrollment closes. 


Photo by Arun Thomas: https://www.pexels.com/photo/journal-book-1156683/



What are you grateful for today/ at the moment?

I am grateful for my mood today / good health/ financial stability. Can be anything, small/big.

Image by Bayzid Islam Farib from Pixabay

What is that one quality you want to improve now / today?

It can be anything like - I want to be kinder and respectful to others. I want to be fit. I want to motivate people around me. 

The point is not to judge, not to think of an action plan, but to think of the current day and based on the emotions of that day. 

It doesn't mean you should improve your quality/behavior in one day. It just means you are giving importance to getting better every day.

Even when you don't believe in the concept that the whole world conspires to bring you good, you will see that this answer will have an impact on your life.

I will explain how this works. 

If I answer question #3 every day that I want to become fit, I might go for a walk at least one day a week. Since it's my first thought every day, I try to do something related to that thought. Slowly, it becomes a habit to take care of my health, as it is the same thought that I am focusing on first. 

What do you think? Try and let me know. It only takes a minute of your time every day.

By the way, this 3-question format is from the podcast 'Feel Better, Live More' by Dr. Rangan Chatterjee.

2. Cheer yourself up 

After you wake up, when you stand before the mirror to brush your teeth, give yourself a hi-fi and say - It is a good day

Seems fun, right? Just follow this tip like a ritual, no need to believe in any concept.


Photo by Pixabay: https://www.pexels.com/photo/two-yellow-emoji-on-yellow-case-207983/


 

Instead of getting validation from others, hi-fi-ing ourselves boosts our confidence and encourages us to celebrate ourselves. This is a research-proven method that is a powerful motivator. 

You don't need any extra time for this. Do this while brushing.

This tip is from the most popular podcast by Mel Robbins.

3. Enjoy the morning sunlight 

If you have a habit of drinking coffee/ hot water with lemon/ tea, use this time to do it outside - patio/porch. Exposure to Morning sunlight has many benefits, like improved mood, boosting the immune system, and better sleep at night. Of course, the benefit of Vitamin D as well.

Make a habit of staying in Sunlight every day, simply while having coffee/watering plants. Recommended time on a sunny day is 5 to 10 mins, and it's 20 mins on a cloudy day to get the full benefit from Sunlight.

But, if that's not possible, 1 min every day before you start your chores/ run to the office is better than no exposure to sunlight. What do you say? Is it that tough to incorporate this into your daily busy schedules?

This tip, which also improves energy and produces the happy hormone Serotonin, is from the Huberman Labs podcast. 


Photo by <a href="https://stockcake.com/i/peaceful-morning-ritual_2339266_1397188">Stockcake</a>


So, that's about 3 Morning Rituals you can do in 3 minutes, and get the benefit of boosting your mind and body.

PS: This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical or professional advice. Always consult a qualified expert before making health or lifestyle changes.

Until next time,




πŸŒ… My Morning Ritual Starter Kit

Boost your mind and body with these hand-picked essentials I use every day!

πŸ”— As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Thanks for your support!

30 April, 2025

Z for Zion National Park #BlogchatterA2Z

 Zion National Park 

Zion is one of the most popular national parks in Utah. Many say it's the best out of the Mighty Five in Utah.

For me, Bryce Canyon National Park is the best. But Zion is unique in its own way.

Zion Canyon, which is an average of 2000 feet deep, offers numerous hiking trails with astonishing views.

While Narrows and Angels Landing are the most popular trails, The Subway is considered the most challenging.

Angel's Landing trail is considered very challenging and requires a permit and fitness to hike it. Walking through narrows with knee-deep water between the canyon walls is a unique experience. 

Here is our travelogue for Day 1 and Day 2.

This is one of the best views from the Canyon Overlook Trail.


Until next time,




PS:

So, that's the last post of this year's BlogchatterA2Z. It is never easy to write and publish one post a day for the whole month. It needs a lot of planning. I have written most of my posts, planned ahead, and scheduled most of them. 

It took some time to decide which places I should write about for each letter, but then, there is no stopping. I really enjoyed this challenge. 

Thanks to the Blogchatter blogging community for the support and encouragement. I got to read many wonderful posts from different bloggers along the way as well. 

Congrats to all the bloggers who completed the challenge πŸ‘ It's not easy with our everyday responsibilities, but we all did it :-)


I'm participating in #BlogchatterA2Z





Other A2Z Posts:

A for Arches National Park

B for Bigbend National park

C for Capitol Reef National Park

D for Disney

E for Escalante National Monument

F for Fort Davis

G for Great Smoky Mountains National Park

H for Hot Springs National Park

I for Idaho Springs

J for Jackson Hole

K for Kasha Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument

L for Las Vegas

M for Monument Valley

N for Niagara Falls

O for Orlando

P for Pikes Peak

Q for Quiet and Secluded

R for Rocky Mountain National Park

S for Santa Fe

T for Talimena Scenic Drive

U for Utah

V for Vermont

W for White Sands National Park

X for Xtreme Weather

Y for Yellowstone National Park

Z for Zion National Park

29 April, 2025

Y for Yellowstone National Park #BlogchatterA2Z

 Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming 

There cannot be any other choice for letter 'Y'. Yellowstone is very unique as it has a variety of places that attract anyone.

Geothermal springs, waterfalls, snow-capped mountains, lush forests, wildlife, and gushing rivers. Which other place can have all of this beauty in one place?

We have spent around 5 days in Yellowstone, covering each part of the park and attempting multiple trails. We are amazed, and we will go there again if we can. That vacation stayed in our minds forever with many beautiful memories.

We might have stretched ourselves and hiked more than 6 miles a day. There is a lot to see. 

Here is our overview of Yellowstone Trip.

Read the detailed Yellowstone travelogue below:

Yellowstone Itinerary Day #1 - Grand Canyon of Yellowstone and West thumb geyser basin

Yellowstone Itinerary Day #2 - Midway Geyser Basin and Grand Prismatic Spring Overlook

Yellowstone itinerary Day #2 (Part 2) - Upper geyser basin and Lower geyser basin, Old Faithful

Yellowstone Itinerary Day #3 - Mammoth Hot springs, Roosevelt Arch, and Norris geyser basin

How is that color? That's one of the viral photos on social media, and mind you, there are no filters applied. It's original without edits. That Grand Prismatic Spring geyser looks amazing and unreal!






Until next time,




I'm participating in #BlogchatterA2Z




Other A2Z Posts:

A for Arches National Park

B for Bigbend National park

C for Capitol Reef National Park

D for Disney

E for Escalante National Monument

F for Fort Davis

G for Great Smoky Mountains National Park

H for Hot Springs National Park

I for Idaho Springs

J for Jackson Hole

K for Kasha Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument

L for Las Vegas

M for Monument Valley

N for Niagara Falls

O for Orlando

P for Pikes Peak

Q for Quiet and Secluded

R for Rocky Mountain National Park

S for Santa Fe

T for Talimena Scenic Drive

U for Utah

V for Vermont

W for White Sands National Park

X for Xtreme Weather

Y for Yellowstone National Park

Z for Zion National Park

28 April, 2025

X for Xtreme Weather #BlogchatterA2Z

 X for Extreme Weather 

Ok, I cheated with X a bit, but I couldn't find any places starting with X. :-)

We have been to many places with extreme weather. Let me share with you such stories.

Hail:

They say it is always a bad time to hike in the mountains in the afternoons. This is due to the extreme and unpredictable weather in the afternoons. 

We were returning from the Pikes Peak summit(Colorado) on an afternoon. The sky was filled with dark clouds quickly, and we saw a golf ball-sized hailstone hitting our car window very hard. Fortunately, nothing happened, and the hail stopped after some time. That was a unique experience.


Hail
Image by LoraPalner from Pixabay


Snow:

We drove through snow a lot of times. It can be very dangerous when black snow is formed on the roads. 

Cars might skid, and braking might not work immediately. It is always important to maintain a distance from the car in front and go slowly. Once we saw a car just before us skidding to the side of the road while braking. It was scary. All cars were at a speed of around 50 miles per hour.

Lightening, Thunderstorms, and Heavy rain:

It is tough driving during a thunderstorm. We once had to drive during a severe thunderstorm. The rain was so heavy that the wipers couldn't wipe water fast, and visibility was very poor. A Lightning strike very near to us made it even scarier. 

We also saw a whirlwind/twister in a field while driving on the road. Fortunately, we were at a safe distance.


Image by NoName_13 from Pixabay


High winds:

Winds can be dangerous when mixed with snow / wintery weather. We experienced such weather while walking on the Royal Gorge Bridge in Colorado in Winter(956 feet above the Arkansas River). 

The winds were so high that we couldn't walk with our eyes open, had to walk holding the rails with our eyes closed, wind pushing us back. It was very tough. 

All these experiences make me realize that nature is not only beautiful, but can also be powerful and dangerous.


Until next time,




I'm participating in #BlogchatterA2Z





Other A2Z Posts:

A for Arches National Park

B for Bigbend National park

C for Capitol Reef National Park

D for Disney

E for Escalante National Monument

F for Fort Davis

G for Great Smoky Mountains National Park

H for Hot Springs National Park

I for Idaho Springs

J for Jackson Hole

K for Kasha Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument

L for Las Vegas

M for Monument Valley

N for Niagara Falls

O for Orlando

P for Pikes Peak

Q for Quiet and Secluded

R for Rocky Mountain National Park

S for Santa Fe

T for Talimena Scenic Drive

U for Utah

V for Vermont

W for White Sands National Park

X for Xtreme Weather

Y for Yellowstone National Park

Z for Zion National Park


Related Posts Plugin for WordPress, Blogger...