Take Me To the Mountains

Happy International Mountain Day! Since 2003, December 11 has been observed to create awareness about the importance of mountains to life. Mountain systems cover about 27% of the world’s land surface and directly support 22% of the world’s people. From tourism-related activities such as skiing, climbing and hiking, to agricultural resources, such as coffee and spices, mountains provide opportunities to many all over the world.

Mountains are some of the most beautiful of Mother Nature’s natural structures. They encompass some of the most spectacular landscapes, a wide variety of ecosystems, a great diversity of species, and distinctive human communities. They are tracts of relatively untouched wilderness, just waiting to be explored. 

Have you been to the mountains lately? What brought you there? How did it make you feel?

Mountains give the opportunity to discover pieces of untouched wilderness far from light pollution and the noise and business of the city life, and show us what Mother Nature is all about. For me, mountains provided the opportunity to simply get outside. Whether it is to take in the view of the city from above, to set up a tent for a weekend with friends, to travel a winding road not knowing what’s at the turn ahead, or to fall asleep to the soothing calm of a rocking boat, being surrounded by towering, majestic mountains is a feeling like no other. 

What a flat, dull place the world would be without mountains.

I miss the mountains.

International Mountain Day is your opportunity to head out and appreciate these unique landforms and all they have to offer. Is the landscape flat where you live? Instead, use this day as an excuse to get outside and explore the natural areas in your neck of the woods. 

How will you celebrate?

For more days celebrated this month, and throughout the year, as well as some fun blog post prompts, check out my Days of the Month series.