Travel during Covid-19 : Rediscovering my town
The first half of 2020 has been interesting to say the least. It has changed how I saw traveling to be. I used to think that it was all about how far you can go to visit and enjoy the “finest things” in life. How wrong was I !? Since March, my husband and I have been in quarantine, and in a matter of weeks, the world shut their doors to control coronavirus, which means : No travel. Well that’s what we thought.
For almost a month, we were inside the house and barely going out. One day, my husband and I decided that instead of staying in until I do not know when, why don’t we make our hometown our destination for couple of weeks. We decided to rediscover Erie, Pennsylvania, and what a great idea that was. We were able to visit surrounding neighborhood and parks/woods. I’ve included some of my favorite pictures.
Asbury Woods
Asbury Woods is a forest that has been preserved by the state for educational purposes. It is a 205 acres of fields with trails parks and creeks. Along the creeks, you will find Buttermilk falls and over 5 miles of astonishing views. Bikers and dog walkers are welcomed since there is enough space for everyone. My husband and I took different paths in the forest and thought that we were lost. However, you will realize that you do not get lost since all routes take you back to the main trail. It was an amazing experience, mostly when we followed the creek to find ourselves at the top of the buttermilk falls.
For more information/hours Click Asbury Woods.
ButterMilk Falls
Located inside Asbury Woods, Buttermilk falls is one of the many creeks that surround Erie Township. It is on a private property that can be accessed by walking upstream in Walnut Creek from the Greenway Trail (in Asbury Woods). The creek is not deep and allows you to bring your young kids to play and swim. Do not forget to bring your quick drying aqua water shoes since the rocks are really slippery, but also your bathing suit. Bring your bug spray because mosquitos are going to be attracted to you (I forgot mine the first time I went 😅, so now I have one in my travel/hiking bag at all times).
Ps, a list of my travel essentials will be coming soon
Indian Trail Park
Located in Northampton, Pa (an hour away from Erie), the trail includes 3 Pavilions, a baseball field, a volleyball court, swings, and bathrooms. As you can see in the picture above, animals are welcomed and the creeks are not deep. The park has guided trails and you can also cross the creek to go on the next side. I haven’t done it yet.
Frontier Park
A 15 minutes walk from Downtown Erie, Frontier park planted its first tree in 1998. The park welcomes Erie Jazz Fest during the summer, but also soccer matches and picnics. The variety of trees creates a rainbow of flowers when they all blossom.
Presque Isle State Park
How I love this place! It is not a beach but a lake (Erie has the name of one of the 5 great lakes, Lake Erie), which it’s alright for me. The sunsets are just beautiful and the waves are calming. Every couple weeks, my husband and I take some time out of our busy lives to take a walk in Presque Isle. The park gives a tremendous view of Erie, and its love for nature. I would definately recommend visiting the place any time you come to Erie.