The beaten path is easy to follow, laid out by those before us.  The beaten path is usually safe, taking us by the sights everyone talks about, the places those in the “know” say you need to see.  As you stroll along this beaten path, a spot with only a few blades of grass beaten down catches your attention. 

The current of the established path wants to keep you moving along to the must-see sights ahead, but your curiosity is building. What is down this path less traveled? You decide to follow it. It is a rougher path, with low-hanging branches to get under, large roots snaking long, and low brushes almost causing the path to disappear, but you persist and follow along.  

As you push forward, you realize the sounds of the beaten path are falling away. You are entering an area of different sounds​, sounds telling of something different ahead, something hidden from the crowds. Something that requires extra effort, effort not needed on the beaten path. 

As you follow this path less traveled, you finally come across it—a hidden treasure, a beautiful spot, a place for you to enjoy without the crowds. Whether it’s an overlook with amazing views of the ocean or a secluded beach, the path less traveled was worth the effort. 

I have followed many paths less traveled.  In my experience, most of these paths have been well worth the extra effort, rewarded with time spent in amazing places.