Carpinteria State Beach, CA, photo by Jack Rogan and RootsRated.com
Now that we’ve fully recovered from losing an hour of sleep, we’re ready to embrace this extra hour of sunlight. From post work powder runs to extended happy hours, we’re maximizing on the new-found sunlight. Here are our suggestions for the best use of that extra hour:
Hit Your Local Trail
Throw hiking shoes and a change of clothes in your car and hit the trail straight after work. Sure you can go with friends or co-workers, but taking an hour at the end of the workday to decompress and reflect without any distractions… now that's relaxing. Hit your favorite trail and focus on just enjoying the beauty around you - you'll probably notice a few wild flowers cropping up. Be sure to bring water and a headlamp in case you go for a longer hike and catch the sunset at the top. You'll start the next day rejuvenated and ready for action.
Apres-Ski in Aspen
Après is a way of life in Aspen. Literally meaning “after skiing” in French, it is a tradition that has become a day-to-day ritual. The mountains in Aspen are still prime for some post-work Spring skiing and snowboarding. And after a quick but intense workout, there are plenty of options to kick your ski boots up and enjoy a cocktail. We like the
Ajax Tavern, situated not more than 20 feet from the
Silver Queen Gondola and
Red Onion, the local “ski bum bar” that's been in the business of pouring drinks since 1892.
Try the Newest Local Brewery
With the craft beer movement sweeping the nation, it seems like there's a new brewery popping up every month. There's probably a new brewery in your town, so why not try it out after work with some co-workers? If you're in the Portland, OR area we like
Cascade Brewing Barrel House. The eastside outpost specializes in all things sour beer, with nearly 20 taps available and almost 25 bottles for sale. Cascade Barrel’s "Tap It Tuesday" events introduce beer aficionados to a new sour every week.
Go for an Evening Ride in Charleston
You can see a lot in an hour when you bike through Charleston, SC. And with the additional hour of sunlight you can see twice as much! Take to the streets with 2 wheels and watch the sun set on old southern history and primo architecture. And you'll see a fair amount of this Southern gem since Charleston proper is actually quite small. The city lies on a peninsula that measures about 3 miles long and 2 miles wide. There are even a few streets where you can see the Ashley River at one end, and turn around to see Charleston Harbor at the other end. The compactness of the city and it's lack of elevation allows you to cruise all over town with ease. Pair it with your
happy hour spot and you've got an evening for the books.
Catch a Few Waves
There are few things that rival the awesomeness of watching the sun sink below the horizon from the comfort of your surfboard. Some people say there's a green flash at the very moment the sun dips, others say it's just an illusion. But one thing is certain, you won't be able to take your eyes off the horizon. Check the surf report and hit the break. If you're not much of a surfer, try your hand at stand up paddle or kayaking. And now's the time - it's not quite summer yet so the crowds are low and the beauty is at an all time high.
Charleston, SC, photo by Logan Waddell and RootsRated.com