I love being outdoors. There's nothing better than feeling the sun on your face. Feeling the breeze. There's just something special about feeling connected to the Earth.

Here are two, very different, yet perfect places for a hike in Amarillo.

Let's say you're short on time and want to get in a quick hike that isn't on a "walking trail" around a small body of water filled with ducks. Recently, I fell in love with the 9th Street Trails or, as they're lovingly referred to, Hobo Hills.

The system of trails is definitely better suited for a bike ride rather than hiking. However, I do enjoy taking a little time to walk around on these trails and it isn't too big of a headache to traverse on foot.

The best part is that they're pretty much in town. You don't have to go far to get there. Get the timing right, and there are moments where you'll feel like you're way out in the middle of nowhere.

Also, there are improvements coming to the 9th Street Trails which will only make this spot even better for a quick afternoon in the sun.

Depending on how adventurous you are (I'm an adrenaline junky) you can go to Palo Duro Canyon several times, and not see the same thing twice while hiking. The variety of trails marked by the trail map give you plenty to enjoy over several trips.

Once you get tired of that, there are still places you can explore and hike along without having to be a survival expert. I've spent a lot of time down in the canyon, and it's one of my favorite places in the Texas panhandle.

I've checked out some smaller caves in Palo Duro Canyon that are a lot of fun to explore. They weren't too challenging for my kids, all of which are under the age of 10.

Be sure to get a trail map when you enter the park. Also, take plenty of water with you.