Tips for a Romantic Hike

With Valentine's Day on a Tuesday this year, you may be looking to the long President's Day weekend for a dreamy outing with your sweetie.

Whether you're on your first date or your 40th anniversary, hiking offers many opportunities for romance. Imagine watching a multi-hued sunset sitting side-by-side on a ledge or gazing at Mount Rainier on a cloudless day or having an encounter with an elk or mountain goat on the trail. Very romantic!

Click here to view our slideshow of Hearts in Nature

Unfortunately, these encounters are usually unexpected moments almost impossible to plan. So what do you in February - when you really want to impress your significant other with a hike that is both memorable and romantic? We have some ideas.

Thoughtful details make good memories

A romantic hike is at least as much about the thoughtful details as it is about the destination, especially if the weather isn't perfect. Some things to keep in mind as you plan your outing:

• Choose a destination that is easily reached, by car and by foot.

• Bring a pad so that you have a warm, dry place to sit next to each other.
• Pack a thermos of hot chocolate or some other delicious drink.
• Bring something yummy that your sweetie wouldn't expect. Dolmas. Chocolate truffles. Fancy cheeses.
• Take a break from your conversation, listening to the sounds of nature.
• Let your partner set the pace and suggest breaks along the way.
• Stash clean towels in the car for cleaning off upon your return.
• Stop for milk shakes or a meal on the way home.

Be creative and plan ahead

What if you know your partner well - maybe too well? A hike is a great way to say "I love you." By leaving your everyday lives at home, it can provide clarity and freshness for your relationship. And with a little creativity and forethought, you can certainly wow your partner. We offer a few romantic ideas:

• Picnic on a Hike - Surprise your partner with wine, cheese, chocolate and flowers on a mountain top.
• Romantic Getaway - Don't tell your partner where you are going, just what to pack.
• Memories with a View - On a hike, bring along something sentimental to both of you (love letters from when you first dated, old photos) and read them together at a gorgeous viewpoint.
• Hiking Surprise - Go out the day before and hide a gift or write "I love you" using natural objects on the beach or forest floor.
• Sensory Hike - Go slowly and engage your senses. Look up, feel the moss and bark, smell the dirt, taste edible berries and listen to birdsong.
• Camping or Backpacking - Want to see that amazing sunset? Your best bet will be if you take to the backcountry with your tent. Other romantic ideas: a tent full of flower petals and sleeping bags that zip together!

We hope you found something inspirational and romantic to try. Have fun and enjoy your Valentine's Day hike - whether it be on February 14th, February 20th or six months from now.