Tag: outdoor living

5 Trail Mix Recipes for Your Next Outdoor Adventure

Posted on Camille Smith
Photo courtesy of Chubby Soul.

Whether you’re braving an arduous hiking trail or enjoying a lazy afternoon on the boat dock, trail mix is an unbeatable snack. It’s lightweight yet dense, easily portable, and doesn’t require refrigeration — making it a perfect choice for on-the-go nature enthusiasts. Besides these benefits, one of the best parts is that you can customize your batch. Perhaps you love Archer Farms’ Monster Mix or the classic Planters’ brand, but you wish it didn’t include raisins. Making your own trail mix is guaranteed to be free of pesky ingredients you’re not into. Plus, it’s unbelievably simple to make! In honor of National Trail Mix Day, check out these five trail mix recipes to try for your next outdoor adventure – whatever it may be!

Maple Glazed Trail Mix

Many trail mix recipes are either decadent or health-focused, but this one from Freshoffthegrid.com is the best of both worlds. The combination of sweet coconut flakes and hearty almonds makes for a satisfying Fall-themed snack. Whether you’re hitting the trail or hanging at your lake house, one handful won’t be enough. 

Ingredients: 

  • ½ cup of raw almonds 
  • ½ cup raw pecan halves 
  • ⅓ cup unsweetened coconut chips
  • ¼ cup pepitas 
  • 3 tablespoons maple syrup 
  • ⅛ teaspoon sea salt 
  • ¼ cup chocolate chips 
  • ¼ cup dried cherries 

Directions: Preheat oven to 300 degrees. While it’s heating, mix almonds, pecans, coconut chips, pepitas, and maple syrup into a medium bowl. Stir to coat the nuts with syrup evenly. Spread mixture onto a baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes. Once cooled, transfer to a bowl with chocolate chips and cherries.

Homemade Healthy Trail Mix

Are you looking for a nutrient-dense snack? Blogger and dietician, Carrie Walder, features a health-focused trail mix recipe on her blog, Walder Wellness. Her recipe is simple — dried fruits and raw nuts. However, this particular combination complete with mango slices has a tropical flair perfect for late summertime. 

Ingredients: 

  • 1 cup raw cashews 
  • ½ cup raw almonds 
  • ½ cup unsweetened coconut chips 
  • 2 cups unsweetened dried mangos, chopped 
  • ½ cup banana chips 

Directions: Mix all ingredients into a large glass container. Scoop into plastic bags and bring on your next outdoor adventure! 

Classic Chex Monster Mix

If Chex Mix and trail mix had a child, this recipe would be it. Straight from Chex’s website, this tasty treat combines the light, crunchy texture of Chex squares with salty, filling nuts. To top it off, M&M pieces and chocolate chips add a sweetness that benefits all trail mix recipes. Kids and adults alike will compete for handfuls of this perfect lake snack. 

Ingredients: 

  • 2 cups of Chocolate Chex cereal 
  • 2 cups of Rice Chex cereal 
  • 1 cup raisins 
  • 1 cup candy-coated chocolate candies 
  • 1 cup cocktail peanuts 
  • 1 cup roasted salted almonds 
  • ½ cup milk chocolate chips 

Directions: Combine all ingredients into a large bowl. Mix well and store in a covered container. 

Pumpkin Spice Roasted Chickpea Trail Mix

Calling all chickpea enthusiasts! Essentially the pumpkin spiced latte of trail mix recipes, this creation from the blog Eating Bird Food is a perfect combo of sweet and salty that goes well with a crisp Autumn afternoon at your lake house. 

Ingredients: 

  • 1 can chickpeas, rinsed and drained 
  • 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice 
  • 5-6 drops of stevia (or 1-2 teaspoons maple syrup)
  • ½ cup unsweetened large flaked coconut flakes 
  • ½ cup almond slices 
  • ¼ cup enjoy life mini chocolate chips 

Directions: The bulk of this recipe involves roasting the chickpeas. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. After rinsing the chickpeas, pat them dry with paper towels and place them in a bowl. Add the pumpkin pie spice and stevia and stir to combine ingredients. Bake chickpeas on a baking sheet for 30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes. Once they’re crispy, set aside to cool. Place the remaining ingredients in a bowl and add chickpeas! 

Decadent Trail Mix

We’re saving the sweetest for last. If you’re a chocolate fan looking for a dessert-like snack, this Decadent Trail Mix from The Cole Mines blog is perfect. The combination of salty and sweet is addictive, and the butterscotch and chocolate pairing makes for a delectable, unique treat. Around the holidays, opt for red and green M&Ms for a festive flare. 

Ingredients: 

  • 1 cup salted peanuts 
  • 1 cup raisins 
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips 
  • 1 cup butterscotch chips (or peanut butter)
  • 1 cup M&Ms 

Directions: Mix all the ingredients in a Tupperware container or Ziplock bag. Enjoy and share with guests! 

During a long day in the great outdoors, homemade trail mix recipes are a fun, delicious treat. Whether you opt for a healthy or chocolatey snack today, we at Lake Homes wish you a Happy National Trail Mix Day! 

Sun Protection Series #4: Understanding UPF Umbrellas

Posted on Camille Smith
Photo courtesy of whitearrowshome.com.

When you think of umbrellas, perhaps rain first comes to mind. However, umbrellas also serve an important function in blocking the sun’s harmful UV rays. While relaxing by the lake, an outdoor umbrella provides an extra layer of sunburn prevention. Our previous articles in the sun protection series focused on sunscreen, sunglasses, and UPF clothing. Today, our final piece in the series highlights the importance of UPF umbrellas. We talked with experts to answer common questions that you might have about this underrated, yet highly important product for your lake house.

How Do Umbrellas Block UV Rays?

Photo courtesy of pelicanshops.com.

Like clothing, UPF umbrellas work by providing a physical barrier between your skin and the sun. Their UPF, or ultraviolet protection factor, level depends on the type of fabric and how tightly woven it is. Dr. Aragona from Prescription Doctor comments, “The umbrella can be a normal nylon material, but some UV specific umbrellas are coated with a gum which blocks out even more rays.” While most umbrellas are made from nylon, many high-quality patio umbrellas have acrylic covers. “It’s highly effective at blocking UV-rays, but it’s not widely used,” says Jennifer Walden, operations director at WikiLawn. “If you can’t find acrylic, you can use tightly-woven nylon for something very close.” Another common fabric choice is olefin, commonly used in carpeting and is mildew resistant. Even without a durable, high-quality fabric, a standard umbrella should do the trick. According to Dr. Agarona, the average umbrella can help shade someone from three-quarters of UV light, which is impressive.

Are Certain Fabric Colors Best?

Photo courtesy of RCWilley.com.

Have you ever worn a black shirt on a hot day and noticed your temperature rise? Or stepped onto a black pavement and felt that fiery sensation in your feet? The same logic works for UPF umbrellas. Because black fabric absorbs UV rays, a black umbrella will provide more sun protection than a covering of any other color. However, unlike a black shirt, your skin won’t be directly next to the heat source, so you’ll remain cool under the umbrella. 

Should I Wear Sunscreen Under an Umbrella?

Photo courtesy of Cleveland Clinic.

UPF umbrellas certainly block UV rays, but they aren’t the best-isolated approach. They reduce the amount of UV that directly reaches your skin but don’t protect against scattered UV rays that bounce off other objects. According to one study by Johnson & Johnson, umbrellas are far less protective than a sunscreen with an SPF of 100. The best approach is combining sunscreen and umbrellas for optimal protection. “A lot of people will buy a normal umbrella and think it will completely protect them,” says Dr. Aragona. “Where the umbrella cannot shade, you need to be wearing sunscreen.” One of the reasons for this is because indirect exposure to the sun is damaging. While UPF umbrellas help with direct exposure, you’ll need sunscreen to cover indirect rays.

What Umbrella Brands Are Best For Sun Protection?

Photo courtesy of Sunbrella.

While all umbrellas have at least some degree of UPF, certain brands will offer better coverage than others. For instance, Sunbrella is one of the few brands that use acrylic fabrics, which provides excellent protection against UV rays. The Skin Cancer Foundation even recommends some of their products. Sarah Dooley, director of upholstery at Sunbrella, adds, “Our fabrics perform well on all the above (UV protection, fade-proof, and resistance to wear and tear) and are engineered with built-in stain and moisture resistance. They’re breathable, allowing water vapor to pass through without trapping heat.” Similar to Sunbrella, Coolibar’s products are designed for ultimate sun protection. Both their umbrellas and clothing have a UPF factor of 50+, which blocks 98% of UV radiation. Michelle Rivard, PR manager at Coolibar, recommends the Intego Beach Umbrella. “It’s excellent for someone who lives on the lake,” she says, “It’s so easy to stake it in the ground for added shade in the sand or the yard.” Other well-known brands that carry UPF umbrellas include SunTek and Besroy, which you can find on Amazon.

Next time you enjoy a sunny day on the boat dock, don’t forget the umbrella!

The Best Lake Toys for 2020

Posted on Camille Smith

Summer at the lake means more time on the water. You can waste away the days enjoying homemade treats on your boat dock, listening to relaxing music, and jumping in the lake. If you’re feeling energetic and excited for an afternoon full of games, there’s plenty of lake toys to choose from. Check out the best lake toys of 2020 to bring more summer fun to your lake home!

Hammacher Schlemmer Inflatable Dartboard

Of all the lake toys out there, this one’s right on target. Get competitive in a pool, shallow slough, or boat dock with this inflatable dartboard. Though it reaches 6 feet tall, it also stays grounded with a water-filled base. Who needs a game of darts in a crowded bar when you can enjoy space and sunshine? 

Floating Bluetooth Speaker

COWIN Floating Bluetooth Speaker

When you’re in the water, and the speaker’s on the boat dock, the music can become muffled and inaudible. With this portable, waterproof Bluetooth speaker, you can bring the fun to the water. The clear sound enhanced bass, and loud volume makes for the perfect lake or pool party.

Inflatable Iceberg

Rave Sports Inflatable Iceberg.

Ever wanted to climb Mount Everest without leaving your lake home? Now, you can! This inflatable iceberg is one of the more adventurous lake toys. Towering 14 feet, it features a climbing wall on one side and a slide on the other for maximum fun.

Floating Golf Green

4’x6′ Floating Golf Green

Can you score a hole-in-one? To every golfer who lives on the lake, this one’s for you. Assemble this floating golf green in the pool or lake and test out your skills. Add an extra tee box and floating golf balls for a more comprehensive course. 

Yamaha Sea Scooter

Yamaha Seascooter

This recreational underwater scooter is excellent for the curious lake explorer. At speeds of 2.5 miles per hour, you can chase fish in shallow waters and take photos with the integrated camera. Since it’s designed for an ocean or salt lake, keep in mind it may have less buoyancy in a freshwater lake.

Rubber Dockie

Rubber Dockie Floating Mat

When choosing among lake toys, sometimes simplicity is the best option. These bold colored rubber dockies are highly visible for safety, tear-proof, and scratch and slip-resistant. Perfect for playing sports, lounging, or just messing around on the lake. 

Giant Shootball Basketball Toy

Swimline Giant Shootball Basketball Toy

For water sports, this lake toy is a slam dunk. Swimline’s inflatable basketball net comes with three balls and multiple ports so you can challenge friends and family. Points are designated on each side so you can keep score! 

Airhead Poparazzi 3 Person Tube

Sportstuff Airhead Poparazzi Inflatable Triple Rider

Hold on tight! SportsStuff’s rider towable tube is designed to be pulled behind a boat. The EVA padding ensures a comfortable ride, and the tough nylon cover guarantees durability. With the upper deck, one of the three riders can stand up for a more thrilling ride.

Inflatable Water Trampoline

Wotryit 10′ Inflatable Water Trampoline

Get airborne with this inflatable trampoline designed for the lake! Despite its large size, the multiple inflation vales make it easy to set up, so you can start bouncing immediately. It’s also safe and made from environmentally friendly materials. Try out your best dive into the water! 

Foam Water Shooters

NZQXJXZ Foam Water Shooters

Lightweight and easy to use, these foam water shooters are perfect for parents, kids, and friends. With a shooting distance of 31 feet, you can easily surprise your opponent. Use in the lake, on your dock, in the yard — wherever you’re ready to start a friendly water war! 

We hope you love these lake toys this summer! 

Things You Need to Know About Bug Spray

Posted on Camille Smith
Photo courtesy of whattoexpect.com.

In summer, you’re living your best lake life. But then, after only five minutes outside, mosquitos start landing and biting. Ugh. Fortunately, you can deal with these pests by installing ceiling fans and screens. But when you’re away from your lake home, there’s one established method for keeping the bugs at bay — bug spray. It’s almost synonymous with the smell of summer. Despite its widespread use, there’s a lot of unanswered questions you may have about bug repellent. At Lake Homes Realty, we’re here to answer them.

Does Bug Spray Actually Work?

Photo courtesy of Gud Gear.

In short, yes! Bug spray works by repelling insects rather than killing them. Mosquitoes are attracted to carbon dioxide in our breath, sweat, and pores because it helps them find food (i.e., your blood). Mosquitos can detect carbon dioxide from up to 35 meters away! Essentially, bug spray works by disguising your scent. 

To achieve a scent that repels, most products use DEET — the most well known and widely tested active ingredient in bug spray. The U.S. Army first developed DEET in 1946, and it’s been in public use since 1957. Today, the U.S. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has approved 120 DEET products. Natural plant-based mosquito repellents are popular as well, and plenty of natural ingredients repel mosquitos. However, according to the National Poison Control Center, they do not last as long as synthetic products. 

How Should I Apply Bug Spray?

bug spray station
Photo courtesy of Theme Park Tourist, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Unlike sunscreen, more is not better when it comes to bug spray. Most repellents can be harmful in large quantities. Joseph Conlon, a technical advisor for the American Mosquito Control Association, instructs, “ALWAYS apply according to the label specifications. The label is a federal law. If you over-apply, you are violating federal law.” Instead, you should apply one smooth layer over the exposed skin, ideally from 4-8 inches away.

Because bug repellent contains pesticides, it’s important to avoid applying it to the face, hands, and open wounds. Also, please do not allow children to apply repellents to themselves. The risk of getting the spray in their eyes is too high. 

After applying, keep in mind that lotions take 20 minutes to set in, while sprays provide protection immediately.

Which Goes on First: Bug Spray or Sunscreen?

Photo courtesy of MrsFields.com.

Sunscreen first, then repellent. If you think it’d be simpler to combine them, don’t. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) does not recommend lotions or spray products that mix sunscreen and repellent. When wearing both, keep their different application times in mind. While sunscreen needs to be reapplied every two hours (though this varies based on sweat, swimming, etc.) bug spray lasts at least four hours. 

Is it Ok to Sleep with Bug Spray On?

woman sleeping in a sleeping bag in a tent
Photo courtesy of cottonbro studio via Pexels

Since most bug sprays are chemical, it’s good to wash it off when you go into your lake house. However, if you fall asleep after a long day in the sun, you’re probably fine. Joseph Conlon comments, “Repellents are generally quickly metabolized and excreted, so there is probably little harm as long as one is applying the proper amount.” Just be sure to never spray indoors, for risk of inhaling the fumes! 

Which is the Most Effective Bug Spray?

Photo courtesy of oars.com.

The first rule — always look for an EPA registration number. From there, it’s up to personal preference. REI has a comparison chart with the pros and cons of different brands. You can also use this search tool to identify EPA approved insect repellent. However, some products are ineffective. According to these mosquito repellent testers, you should skip the bracelets and citronella candles. For tried-and-true bug sprays, here are some products to try: 

What bug sprays work best for you?

Sun Protection Series #3: A Guide to UPF Clothing

Posted on Camille Smith
Photo courtesy of Gear Lab.

As we’ve said before on this blog, sun protection is essential. Applying SPF at the lake is an integral step to keeping your skin safe. But sometimes, remembering topical protection is hard. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, fewer than 15% of men and 30% of women regularly wear sunscreen when spending more than an hour outside. For this reason, sun protective clothing is a great solution; no reapplication, and no worries. In this third article of our Sun Protection Series, we address frequently asked questions about UPF clothing.

What is UPF?

Photo courtesy of lovezahra.com.

To put it simply, UPF is to clothes what SPF is to sunscreen. As you may know, SPF (Sun Protection Factor) evaluates how long sunscreen wards off UV rays before skin reddens. By contrast, UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) measures how much UV radiation can penetrate clothing and reach the skin. Clothing with a high UPF is tightly woven to block the sun’s rays. Another distinction between SPF and UPF is the cosmic rays in which wearers are protected. Todd Minars, owner of Minars Dermatology, clarifies, “SPF is only used to rate topical products’ ability to protect against UVB rays, whereas UPF protects against UVA and UVB.” Since not all clothes prevent UV damage equally, UPF measures which clothing offers better sun protection.

What’s Great About UPF Clothing?

Photo courtesy of Coolibar.com.

The downside of sunscreen is remembering to reapply after a few hours. Not to mention the pain of realizing too late that you’ve missed a spot. With UPF clothing, little thought is involved — just put it on! All clothes have some degree of UPF, even cotton t-shirts. However, a standard tee’s UPF rating averages a five on the scale and as low as three when wet. By contrast, UPF clothing designed for spending time outdoors claims to be upwards of 50. Of course, some types of clothes inherently have a high UPF, such as denim. However, in warm, outdoor weather, denim is often too hot to wear regularly, and it’s where UPF clothing comes in. UPF clothing offers premium sun protection, but it’s also relatively lightweight, so you don’t overheat. 

Who Should Wear UPF Clothing?

Photo courtesy of REI.

UPF clothing’s popularity has exploded in recent years. It’s no wonder why, as it fills a niche for multiple populations — those forgetful with their skincare regime, people with an elevated skin cancer risk, and anyone who’s athletic and engaged in outdoor activities. Minars adds, “This is why you see UPF clothing commonly in water-living regions and outdoor sports communities such as running, fishing, snow sports, and more.” If you enjoy biking, hiking, or fishing at your lake house, it may be harder to apply sunscreen while doing these activities all day. As such, UPF clothing is a great option.

Can Hats Have UPF?

Photo courtesy of NYTimes.com.

Yes! When buying hats to wear on the lake, consider UPF a high priority. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, the two most common skin cancers often appear on the head and neck. Wearing hats protects these vulnerable areas. Dr. Tanya Kormeili, Board Certified Dermatologist in Santa Monica, says the best type of hat is any that does not allow the light to penetrate through. “Finely woven is ideal for keeping the light from coming through, along with a wide brim…You can pick styles and colors that are super fun and keep your personality shining through!”

What are the Best Brands for UPF Clothing?

Photo courtesy of Lands’ End.

Thankfully, there are lots from which to choose. Manufacturers such as Columbia, Coolibar, and REI produce entire lines of UV protective clothing. REI even offers a helpful guide on how to choose UPF clothing. For hats, many brands create headgear with excellent UPF. For instance, the Adventure Hat from Sunday Afternoons and REI’s Outdoor Research Oasis Sombrero Hat have brim and neck capes, designed for outdoor activities. And let’s not forget swimsuit brands. Although swimsuits are famous for leaving skin exposed, it doesn’t have to be that way. Plenty of companies make swimsuits with UPF and extra coverage. Products like this convertible swim shirt dress from Skinz have a UPF of 50+ and provide significant body coverage. For a cover-up, check out Athleta’s Baja UPF Jacket. 

Lake Homes Realty, reminds lake residents to stay safe, stay sun-protected, and have fun!

Sun Protection Series #1: All You Need to Know About Sunscreen When at the Lake

Posted on Camille Smith

As lake dwellers, we’ve all experienced a painful sunburn. While it’s no big deal to treat most sunburns at home with moisturizer and aloe vera, it’s best to reduce your burns because chronic, unprotected sun exposure can be dangerous. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime. To highlight the importance of sun protection on the lake, we’re launching a four-part blog series on this topic, beginning with a spotlight on sunscreen. To learn more about using sunscreen properly at the lake, we connected with Dr. Rina Allawh at Montgomery Dermatology near Philadelphia, PA, and Dr. Todd Minars from Minars Dermatology in Hollywood, FL. These dermatologists lent us their expert advice on the essentials of sun protection for lake lovers like us. 

What is SPF?

We’ve all seen this acronym on sunscreen bottles, but do we really know what it means? First, SPF stands for Sun Protective Factor, and it measures a product’s degree of protection against the sun’s harmful UV rays. There are two types of UV — UVA rays which penetrate deeper and cause the skin to age and UVB rays that are surface-level and cause the skin to burn. To filter out this harmful light, SPF was created. It’s available in two broad categories: chemical and physical. While chemical sunscreens contain organic compounds that absorb UV rays when they enter the skin, physical sunscreens include mineral compounds which sit on top of the skin and scatter and reflect UV rays. Both have costs and benefits. Recent studies suggest that some chemical sunscreen can be absorbed into the blood, but Dr. Allawh clarifies that there are currently no studies linking sunscreen to cancer. Regardless of which type of sunscreen you choose, the most crucial factor is simply using it. Dr. Minars emphasizes this importance: “Quite literally, applying sunscreen with SPF is the best anti-aging and skin care preventative step a person can take.”

What SPF Should I Use?

Dr. Allawh’s patients frequently ask her whether a high-numbered SPF is better. The answer depends less on the SPF and more on one’s application. She comments, “Many individuals purchase a higher SPF in hopes that they don’t have to reapply. In reality, a high-number SPF does not mean you can spend additional time outdoors unprotected. Reapplication is essential, especially after being in the water.” Although a higher SPF number does not protect your skin longer, it does have slightly more coverage from the sun’s UVB rays. For instance, SPF 30 blocks 97% of these rays, and higher numbers will provide 98% coverage and above. However, Dr. Allawh adds, “No sunscreen, in reality, can block 100% of the sun’s rays.” Finally, when picking out a sunscreen, make sure that the term “broad spectrum” is on the label, demonstrating that it protects against both UVA and UVB rays. And don’t forget to check the expiration date!

How Much Should I Apply?

Dr. Allawh recommends applying a nickel-sized amount of sunscreen to the entire face daily. If you’re spending time outside on the lake, she recommends applying one shot glass amount of sunscreen to your exposed skin. Although it’s a common practice to only reach for the sunscreen when it’s sunny outside, it’s just as important to wear SPF on cloudy or overcast days. Especially between the hours of 10am-2pm, the sun’s rays are exceptionally strong, and it’s critical to apply the recommended amount of SPF. Dr. Allawh says, “a helpful tip I recommend to my patients: When your shadow is shorter than you are… seek shade!” 

What Products Should I Use?

Photo courtesy of Prevention.com.

The answer to this question depends on your skin features and whether your goal is repair or protection. For everyday use, while lounging on your boat dock, Dr. Minars suggests a rub-on SPF sunscreen like Neutrogena Beach Defense. Its 80-minute water resistance is ideal for lake environments. If your skin is sensitive or acne-prone, Dr. Allawh suggests products that are light and non-comedogenic (meaning they won’t block your pores) such as Elta MD UV Clear, LaRoche Posay Anthelios, and Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry Touch. She notes that “they have a nice buildable texture which is ideal for applying before any make-up.” If you’ve already accumulated skin damage from years enjoying the sun, it isn’t too late. Dr. Minars recommends AlphaRet cream products from Skinbetter Science for skin repair. Although this product is less potent than a dermatologist’s prescription, their key ingredients of retinoid and lactic acid rejuvenate and repair the skin. 

In the coming weeks, keep an eye out for more blog posts in our Sun Protection Series. For now, apply some sunscreen and get outdoors!

Dog-Friendly Hiking Trails Around Chattanooga, TN

Posted on Mary Walters
Photo courtesy of RootsRated.com via Logan Foll.

There’s nothing like taking to the trails to enjoy the thrill of a hike with beautiful lakeside views, but why not make it more special by bringing your favorite companion along for the walk? For dog lovers all around, it may be difficult to find spots for adventure with your four-legged friend, so we’ve done the work for you! Chattanooga, Tennessee, has some sweet hidden treasures for you and your pup. Thanks to the proximity of numerous lakes, national forests, and historical spots, there’s a variety of options for a nice walk by the water. Check out some trail options to enjoy today!

Chester Frost Park

Our first trail highlight is Chester Frost Park, located right on Lake Chickamauga. This spot is perfect if you and your dog are beginning to go on outdoor adventures together. Chester Frost Park is a great spot to explore the outdoors and enjoy the historical significance of Chattanooga. There is a rich history tied into this park, including Jackson Chapel Cemetery, the first and oldest cemetery in the county. This park has various amenities, including a beach area off Dallas Bay, but unfortunately, you would have to enjoy the beach spot without your pup. Regardless, there are still amazing trails to choose from with great lake views. For hiking maps and more directions, check out their trail guides.

Cloudland Canyon State Park

A little further south of the city, just about 20 minutes from Nickajack Lake, is Cloudland Canyon State Park that houses beautiful woodlands, cliffs, deep canyons, and amazing waterfalls. This park provides a variety of trails for you and your pet ranging from short to moderate and strenuous. The peak in this park is 1980 feet providing an amazing overlook. This option would be great for those dogs that are trained and ready for a more rigorous hiking experience. It is required to keep your pet on a leash as there are steep ledges and cliffs along this walk. Your pet must be restricted to the trails as the park doesn’t allow access to other areas of the park. Visit their site for more information and trail guides. At this time, trail access is limited to 10 hikers at a time.

Enterprise South Nature Park

Photo courtesy of Enterprise South Nature Park.

Another great park to bring your pet along to is Enterprise South Nature Park. With over 2,600 acres of land, this park has a variety of trails featuring mostly moderate hills. We suggest this option if you and your pup are looking for a slightly more rigorous outdoor experience. You will also find a little secluded lake during your walk and a beautiful view of the water. Enterprise South Nature Park is a hidden gem where you will find few crowds compared to other parks in the Chattanooga area. This option will be great for both you and your four-legged companion to enjoy.

There are other options available in this area to visit with your pet. Check bringfido.com for other outdoor excursions. Whichever adventure you may choose for you and your furry friend, you are sure to have a great time in the Chattanooga area.

How to Practice Social Distancing at the Lake

Posted on Camille Smith
Photo courtesy of A Storied Style.

There’s no sugar coating it — social distancing is a bummer. Since the COVID-19 outbreak, public life has been paused. Video calls have replaced all face-to-face interactions except for those who share our homes. Of course, such isolation can lead to feelings of loneliness. However, scientists recommend that to improve mental health in these times, spending time in nature is beneficial. In fact, rather than turning first to medication, some doctors are beginning to prescribe depressed patients with gardening projects. 

For those of us with lake homes, we’re well aware of the benefits of time spent in nature. It’s simply good for the soul. In these times, where social distancing is crucial, being on a lake makes it easier than ever to comply with these guidelines without sacrificing enjoyment. Below are several ways that you can enjoy your lake house while keeping your physical distance from others.

Walking Down Country Roads

Photo courtesy of Alabama Living.

Since stay-at-home orders have been passed around the country, many of us turn to daily walks as our remedy for cabin fever. When you’re living on a lake, these walks are much more scenic. While urban and suburban areas have concrete sidewalks for these excursions, many lake areas sit comfortably off country roads. They’re easier on your feet and showcase more greenery. Even better, you’re less likely to run into other people to dodge on your walk. 

Going Boating

Photo courtesy of Teva.

Although social events have been postponed, no one said we have to keep a six-foot distance from fish, ducks, and birds. You can still enjoy proximity to wildlife while obeying state guidelines. Now is the perfect time to spend time on the water. While it may not be warm enough to swim, you can still grab your fishing gear and try to reel in the big one. Whether you own a motorboat, canoe, or kayak, this is an excellent opportunity to spend time in both green and blue spaces at once.

Finding a Hiking Trail

Photo courtesy of Explore Asheville.

In most lake areas, you can find local hiking trails to enjoy some exercise and time outdoors. Although many are closed due to COVID-19, several trails remain open and have limited their capacity for visitors. To locate accessible greenways and nearby trails in your area, check out TrailLink.com and put on your hiking boots. If you have a furry friend, you may also want to check out BringFido.com for information on dog-friendly hiking paths. 

Watching the Sunset from the Boat Dock

Photo courtesy of Louisiana Travels.

If you have a boat dock, you already have a front-row seat to a beautiful, socially distant show. Without the glare of lights and intrusion of tall buildings, the sunset is much more visible from the lakefront. So when the clock starts inching towards 7:00 pm, grab a glass of your favorite beverage, prop your feet up, and enjoy the view. If you want to practice mindfulness while you’re there, consider bringing a yoga mat to your boat dock and going through a peaceful vinyasa flow as you watch the sky turn orange.

Reading on Your Patio

Photo courtesy of Suitcase of Happiness.

In these tough times, there’s a reason that book sales — particularly children’s books, adult fiction, and thrillers — have increased. In addition to having more time to read, people are looking for exciting stories to engage with while social distancing. If you live on a lake, you can read from the comfort of an outdoor sofa on your screened-in porch. With the sunlight streaming in, you may get so comfortable that you drift into a nap. 

Whatever your preferred pastime, we hope you find some ways to enjoy life on the lake — even while social distancing! 

2020 Outdoor Furniture Design Trends For Your Lake Home

Posted on Camille Smith
navy and white coastal theme - outdoor furniture decor inspiration lake house
Photo courtesy of Martha Dayton Design.

With Spring quickly approaching, revamping your lake house decor might be on your mind. Of course, warmer weather means hosting family and friends on your outdoor patio, and as such, you may be wondering if your current outdoor furniture is sufficient or if it’s time for an upgrade. If this is you, we’ve got you covered with the outdoor furniture design trends of 2020.

Leaders in the outdoor furniture industry such as Brown Jordan, Sunbrella, and Summer Classics have all shared their cutting-edge insights about these trends on their respective blogs. We’ve synthesized the top trends from these companies’ reports and are here to share with you the latest color, material, product, and design trends for the year. We hope these inspire you to get started on redecorating your outdoor area at your lake home!

Color Trend – Say Goodbye to Saturation

While bright, bold colors were in style a few years ago, the theme that’s been emerging over the past few years is color-infused neutrals. Rather than aiming to wow your guests with bright neon pillows, you’ll instead find that fabric trends are headed in a more muted direction.  These faded shades create a softer look that complements the outdoor furniture’s material, rather than overshadowing it.

neutral wicker patio farmhouse style - southern living decor inspiration
Photo courtesy of Southern Living Magazine.

To highlight this trend, Brown Jordan named Peche (French for “Peach”)– a dusty pink color, similar to rose gold– the color of the year in 2019. This color has also featured prominently in 2020 designs. Of course, peche is not the only neutral color that’s trending this year. Blue, especially a bluish-gray color called chambray, is still a classic, can’t-go-wrong color for pillows and cushions. Further, luxury umbrella retailer Shadowspec has named dark green as another trending color in 2020. Especially at a lake house where grass and trees abound, featuring green fabrics in your outdoor designs creates a look cohesive with nature.

Material Trend – Create Texture Variety

This year, don’t be afraid to mix different materials when it comes to your outdoor furniture. Whether you’re combining a concrete dining table with wicker seats or a teak sofa with an aluminum end table, the goal is to evoke an exciting, textured look. However, it’s best to be cautious about which materials you choose to combine. To avoid a junky, haphazard situation, start by focusing on two elements and exploring different combinations.

lake house boat house - outdoor furniture decor inspiration
Photo courtesy of John Bessler.

Currently, some of the most popular products in 2020 are natural materials such as wood and wicker. Lucky for lakeside dwellers, these materials fit seamlessly with the shoreline in your backyard. They also create an exciting sense of texture that already exists in nature. Another popular content to mix into your designs this year is concrete. On its own, concrete appears strictly industrial. However, when combined with contrasting materials like fabrics and wood, it takes on a more dynamic look.

Product Trend – In Keeping with Comfort

The trend of outdoor kitchens has been on the rise for the past decade, and there are no signs of this trend slowing down. As lake homeowners continue to host gatherings in their outdoor kitchens, whether it’s a small family get-together or a large party of guests, furniture manufacturers have kept up by creating large dining tables to accommodate the lifestyle of entertaining. This way, every guest can have a comfortable seat at the table.

daybed hayneedle summer - outdoor furniture decor lake house
Photo courtesy of Hayneedle.

Based on this trend as well as other popular products, it’s clear that comfort is the name of the game in 2020. Luxury furniture retailer Summer Classics lists barrel chairs as a new outdoor furniture trend this year. These chairs, designed with a broad, curved back rather than a traditional box frame, are made for ultimate relaxation. If you’re looking to dive right into the comfort theme of 2020, consider investing in a daybed. Hayneedle, an online home furnishings retailer, names daybeds as one of the top outdoor furniture trends this year. What better place to relax and take a nap than on a plush daybed surrounded by your beautiful lakefront property?

Design Trend – Stick to Simple

modern luxurious sofa outdoor inspiration
Photo courtesy of Summer Classics.

Quoted in the luxury lifestyle magazine Arizona Foothills, the chief brand curator for Brown Jordan notes that furniture with modern, clean lines is the trend for 2020. This simplistic style has been recently popular in interior decorating, and now, it’s making its way to outdoor designs as well. High-end retailer Summer Classics agrees, and they have incorporated this style into their 2020 collections Elegante and Claro. Both of these lines showcase unembellished elegance, underscoring the beauty of a simple, linear design. Additionally, Shadowspec names minimalism as a big outdoor furniture trend in 2020.  Especially in the outdoor space of a lake house, choosing a minimalistic style will beautifully blend with your natural surroundings rather than overshadowing them.

We hope these 2020 outdoor furniture trends give you inspiration for your lake house designs. The use of stylish color and content will add fashion to your home and your life!