Rowe Woods- Quick Walk with Rebecca

I wanted to hike during my time off and visit with friends. I was able to squeeze in lunch with Jeff Stechschulte which was long overdue. And Rebecca joined me for a short hike in Rowe Woods. The humidity makes it tough sometimes in Ohio, but the tree coverage was helpful.

We were on a time limit and both of us wanted something simple. We opted for a shorter route which took only an hour.

We got out early and arrived before most of the families. It was on Labor Day so many people were out looking for something to do.

Its great getting out with my beautiful friend. My time with Rebecca is always uplifting and allows me to consider things differently. She’s a perfect companion in life for me as we continue to get past divorce, launch our kids and embrace new relationships.

The hike had a lot more ups and downs than I recall from my past visit to this nature preserve. I really need to get my cardio back. Hoping once I get back into the full time one job rhythm I’ll be able to schedule some routine exercise.

Love the shade of the trees and the empty path.

We came across these stairs and I was so glad we were going down and not up 🙂

Root system creating a natural staircase.

Day 4 Glenwood Springs-Colorado

On Monday, Kassie and I packed up and hit the road back to Denver. I’m sure Bobby and Lisa would be thankful to give their livers a rest. We decided we would take our time, have an open agenda, stop when and where we wanted, as long as night time driving was avoided.

Again my passenger duty, I took many photos from my window view.

Our first stop was Doc Holiday’s gravesite. At Bobby and Lisa’s recommendation I have since watched the Wyatt Earp Netflix documentary and now love even more that we stopped here. I visited Tombstone, Arizona with Zoe on her move to California but at that time I did not truly appreciate all the US history that occurred there.

A little history about how they moved the cemetery up the mountain to avoid issues with flooding and potential landslides. I imagine that would be a hot mess nobody would want to deal with.

Of course the trail was up a steep hill, which, when you stopped, offered gorgeous views. Guess the climb is worth it.

The landscape colors reminded me of desert terrain. Love the various green tones vs the warm red dirt trail.

We came across this wishing tree which someone told us was started by a cancer patient in the community. I Googled it – “Annie’s Wishing Tree started by Annie Zancanella when she was receiving cancer treatments.” We all need hope and support. Kassie moved a pinecone over staying eco. The baby doll is sort of creepy in the mix.

Once you reached the plateau there were several very old tombstones.

And of course a Potter’s field for immigrants and those in poverty. As we walked I found it odd that just because you have money you are marked as if worth more in history than others. I most likely would’ve ended up here. And I’m okay with that. Once I leave this Earth, I am meant to be free.

Something was eerily intriguing about this field. As if the branches were reaching out from below. Or they were doing an odd dance together in the grass. Feels painful somehow and cohesive.

The view beyond was stunning. Kassie found a trail outside of the cemetery area and we wandered a bit not knowing if it was legit or private property. We soon met a local hiking with his dogs and Kassie continued up the mountain to see if there was a better view. I never did get her photos to know.

Beautiful day. We saw an amusement park on top of one mountain that you reached via gondola. I wondered what riding a roller coaster up there would look like.

It was quiet up here. Not many hikers or tourists.

Hiking back down, Kassie was getting hangry and we headed into town to grab some lunch at the brewery.

Always love a local brewery. We opted for their house-made rootbeer and split an amazing salad and turkey rueben. No complaints on the food here!

We sat outdoors and of course, it started raining. We were able to scoot the table and Kassie only partially got wet.

Sitting at lunch I noticed a walkway and we decided to check it out. Just as we were, an Amtrack train pulled in heading to Chicago. What a fun way to check out towns across America. Unfortunately nothing as convenient as the trains in other countries.

Glenwood Springs is an adorable small town filled with restaurants and bars. I’d definitely come back to spend a full day.

This city has one of the largest natural springs in the world. People come to float in the section of the pool that is darkest. Lisa also told us about other smaller hot spring options also in the area.

Captured this view through the gate along the walkway.

There were several little shacks along the sidewalks with a table and bench set up inside. Sweet little lunch spot and several were filled with people enjoying.

Under the road they made use of the shade and created another outdoor seating area.

Heading out of town we followed this Airstream which was a perfect car for my windshield photos.

You are simply surrounded by the mountains.

Was glad to be seeing this section in the daylight.

We were mapping our way to Frisco for the next stop.

Kassie did an excellent job in our Blue Malibu.

Kayaking or rafting for sure would be fun in Colorado.

Love this capture with the colors in the hills and fluffy white clouds above.

What causes the differences in color? From sandy taupe to….

or a combo of both. Someone enlighten me. Virlane?

All views gorgeous against the blue skies and certainly can’t imagine the colors once the seasons change.

Think about this one for a minute. Love.

Day 3 Basalt and Aspen- Colorado

We wanted to go on a hike today, but the weather was being temperamental. It rained during our morning coffee on the patio and the clouds kept shifting, teasing us of a potentially brighter day. It was worth the risk. We ventured out.

Front stoop photo of the trees. A good way to start my day.

On our drive to the trail, we decided to stop again in Basalt to check out the Sunday street market. It was good to get out and walk around to see what was for sale.

It kept raining on and off. I was tempted to buy a bleached flannel but couldn’t find my size. Wasn’t meant to be.

Noticed this tree carving as we were heading out. Another nod to the fly fisherman.

The trail selected was named Smuggler’s Trail. It was only a 3 mile round trip. But of course, everything in Colorado is uphill or with an incline.

I was out of breath on the first .25 mile. I stopped often and told the others to leave me behind because I didn’t want to slow them down, but also didn’t want to waste my hike trying to keep up either. Altitude adjustment is a real thing. I felt my sinus hurting, gut was moving, etc. Kassie said she nicknamed it Colorado Combustion. She’s been out here skiing more than me.

There was a mining site you could tour if you reserved in advance. We saw a few old mining communities on our drive in as well.

The rain cleared out and I decided not to wear a jacket. It was starting to get hot.

I noticed the rust colored powder on the rocks. A sort of fungus I imagine or moss.

The views as we climbed were incredible. We planned on taking the gondola ride up to the top of the slope to have lunch but I wondered if the view could get any better.

We passed a few residences along the way and Kassie Zillow-ed to see if we could all move in together or rent for a month. You can see our altitude by looking at how small the houses now looked below.

I took a break on a rock and sent this selfie to Debbie. Telling her I was left in the dust by the others.

A storm looked to be moving in. I swear this Colorado weather is so unpredictable.

Stopped to chat with this little chipmunk who seemed to trust me fully.

Check out the crocked tree by the corner of the sign. So cool!

Made it to the viewpoint where Bobby, Lisa and Kassie were waiting.

Walking back down it started to rain. We stopped under a tree for a little bit but then trudged on. It was chilly.

Once back into town, we stopped at KemoSabe again for Kassie to purchase a few gifts. I stood to the side and learned about stingray, elephant, rhino and snakeskin boots. Guess there’s a huge regulation (and should be) to harvest those type of exotic skins.

Bobby pointed out that this bear was made of nails. Pretty cool fur interpretation.

We decided to skip the ride up and headed to the close-by W hotel bar instead.

Was a gorgeous view. Due to the weather, nobody was there.

Captured this awesome view and friend in one shot 🙂

I was loving the orange punch of the flowers coordinating with the cushions.

We decided to only have one drink and then head over to the historic Jerome Hotel.

Just taking in the walk after my very strong tequila drink.

Bobby admitted to trying to actually use this to mail something.

Bobby and Kassie paid tribute to Mother Mary who has answered several of their calls.

Hotel Jerome is the oldest hotel in Aspen dating back to 1889 during the silver mining days. We looked up how much it was for a basic room there and it was a mere $900.00 minimum a night.

The hotel was posh. Perfectly, historically balanced with style.

The dining area impressive. Like something from a magazine.

Kassie of course chatted with the concierge and found out the whole story regarding this painting which I snapped a photo of coming back from a sneakpeak at the dining hall.

In 1936, a family that was staying in that hotel room had a ten-year-old son, and this little boy drowned in the pool. The little boy’s ghost has been known as “water boy,” and various guests have encountered him. He would appear to guests wet and shivering. They also say he leaves wet footprints.

Kassie showing off her KemoSabe bag and just being Kassie.

We were getting into our car ready to leave and Wendy pulled up right next to ours and talked us into going to the Gucci store with her. Apparently she is one of their biggest customers. They immediately offered us champagne and we of course said yes please.

We were sore from our hike and Kassie initiated a stretch in the middle of the Gucci floor. Good thing the town was slow so Bobby and Lisa’s reputations are still intact.

We decided we needed food and ended up at the Tipsy Trout back in Basalt to end our evening. Four cocktails and an appetizer at the Hotel Jerome (although $190.00) was not enough to hold us over. We initially intended to go home, shower, refresh, then go back out, but admittedly I said I more than likely would not make it back out if I did.

Great restaurant with great friends. A perfect ending to our stay.

We convinced Bobby to open this elite tequila for one last drink when we got back to their place. I turned in around 9:30 pm that night, which at the time felt like midnight. Bobby and Kassie stayed up (each of them benefiting from coffee after Jerome Hotel) and drunk texted and dialed many childhood friends.

Somehow after our beautiful weekend together, this feels like the appropriate ending quote.

I found this later and saved. How many have you been to? Me—-only 6. Goals.

Christmas Rocks State Nature Preserve- Ohio

After grabbing some lunch at a local joint in Lancaster, we routed ourselves to another trail to end our day. Debbie and I hiked about 2.5 miles in the morning and felt great. Batteries on our phones were charged, we were hydrated and fed- what could go wrong with adding a 5 mile afternoon hike to end our Saturday.

Perfectly named for Debbie and I who whenever we see a berry tree no matter what season, we think of each other and Christmas.

There was this cute covered bridge to the right of the trail. Not sure what was past it.

Debbie looking very optimistic about where the trail was.

The first part of the trail was a straight gravel path alongside some houses and farms.

Appreciated the saw art on the chicken shed.

Then we finally came to the tree coverage and it was great. Dense. Cool. Just a few people passed us. So quiet.

There was a little creek following to the right of the trail.

I went out to take a look. Nothing much to see.

Pine needles covered some sections of the preserve. There are two loops on this trail and we decided we had the time and energy to do them both.

Then the thunderstorms hit. Was actually quite fun walking in the rain and listening to the storms around us. We felt hidden, literally untouched. You could hear the trees above catching the drops.

Those huge mushrooms made another appearance in these woods.

I swear it looks like these roots are strangling a rock monster coming through from beyond. Right?

The rain added a wonderful twist and we were both glad to have the cooler temperatures. It was not an easy section of the hike. We started getting anxious to start back.

We were at the Christmas rock section and were heading back and decided to do that added little loop. Debbie and I are always making our lives harder on these hikes, this was definitely the wrong move after a long day and the term Jacob’s Ladder should have been our first clue.

I’m going to go with the Wikipedia Hong Kong description of Jacob’s Ladder- “For the Hong Kong television drama, see The Last Steep Ascent.” All the other Biblical interpretations do not apply to the steep incline we endured. We would literally talk each other into just taking 10 steps and then resting again.

We talked about dying and what sign we would leave for each other to know we were thinking of them from above. (Yes, it was a tough hike) I told her I would leave a red leaf among the green so she would know.

We got to the top and this was the view. Was it worth it?…….nope. Now we had to go down a steep muddy incline and for me that was even worse that going up.

But we made it back to the flat gravel road that led us in and couldn’t have been happier to see this pathway again.

Literally us after. Hot. Sweaty. Wet. Not our pretty selves.

And yep, our car was the only one left in the parking lot.

We both acknowledge that we are not in the best shape. (although she is at least 50 pounds lighter than me so much less weight to carry ) Probably why a hike with Bobby and Kassie in Colorado really doesn’t sound our speed 🙂 But we also realize we need to continue to get out, challenge ourselves, and do our best to stay active as we age. It’s always a good story and feeling once we’ve exited a trail that was kicking our butts.

Our last hike from hell was 13 miles. Today’s added to a total of 8.5-ish. We are learning. But its not always about the mileage- its the terrain. Need to evaluate that better.

Wahkeena Nature Preserve

We were feeling great after our morning walk and decided to find another trail to explore. We looked up another listed short hike at Rhododendron State Nature Preserve. We thought Kerry was up for the challenge and followed her authoritative voice again, and this time we landed on private property next to a power plant. I kid you not.

We found another road right after the electric plant and took it instead hoping to find the preserve. Instead we came to Wahkeena Nature Center. Not a bad detour.

The pond with the waterlilies floating is what captured our initial attention. Then we spotted a parking lot.

I kept looking for toads but it was so overcast, none were basking in the sun.

Trail head. We were greeted by a worker who was so kind. Passed us a map and told us he was available for any questions if we wanted help identifying.

This trail was very well marked and easy to follow. A bit of ups and down but great scenery along the way.

Debbie and I spotted these very tall mushrooms off in the distance. I wanted to get a closer shot but didn’t want to wander off the trail into the preserve. Thank goodness for zoom capabilities.

The log cabin was used as the nature center. We never went in because we were getting pretty hungry. Debbie remembered the extra battery charger but forgot the snacks for her sugar lows.

There was a small quiet area where this barn owl was housed. In the pamphlet it said he had been hit by a car and was no longer able to be in the wild. They were using him for educational purposes.

Honestly have never seen an owl up close before. But made me wonder how in the world did a car hit him?

Smeck Park- Baltimore, Ohio

Why Baltimore Ohio? Debbie and I were trying to find a place that was approximately the same distance from each other’s home base and this location happened to be that on the Ohio map. Our original intentions were to meet in Indiana but I could not find any interesting cities with hiking trails near by.

I found an adorable two bedroom Airbnb overlooking a wildflower meadow curated by the owners. Once we arrived we also realized the meticulous attention to details these owners had. The woman is a recycled artist and the art she created from piano keys, burnout out light sockets, wires, licensed plates etc was amazing.

The furniture was also refurbished and set the modern vibe perfectly.

This is the beautiful huge gold butterfly that welcomed you when you walked it. It was interesting trying to figure out where all the pieces originated from.

A close up shot of the butterfly. This should be a museum piece.

Another close up of the art behind the sofa.

One of the local recommendations for eating was called The Chubby Hawaiin. It had excellent reviews so after hitting the Dollar Store to score Debbie her Lucky Charms cereal, we headed over.

We walked into the most local looking dive bar restaurant which did not serve alcohol:) A large grey haired man in a Hawaiin shirt and lay came over to welcome us, then sat down at our table and continued to tell us his life story. Sometimes people just do not know their audience. I have little empathy for the elderly that need attention sometimes. I think that’s the Aries in me. Please don’t let me become them.

Food here was seriously excellent. Sticky rice and great flavorful chicken dishes! I had a side of Mac and cheese, just because, and it was the best I’ve had out at a restaurant.

Another Airbnb recommendation was a park just a mile up the road. We made that our first stop on Saturday’s hiking list.

I decided to drive since Debbie’s Kerry Washington voiced Apple maps made her the perfect navigator last time we met in Florida. As we mapped our way to Smeck park Kerry led us to a water treatment facility instead. Maybe she was off her game in the countryside. Google got us to the correct entrance.

A mucky pond welcomed you by the parking lot.

We posed by the sunflower field and sent it to our third musketeer Kassie, we were a childhood trio, wishing she were with us. It was an overcast day predicting storms, but we decided not to let it stop us.

The gravel trail that led back to the woods took us past this beautiful barn.

Antique farm equipment left for educational and artistic purpose I presume.

I captured Debbie through the equipment.

This was an adorable park and virtually empty.

Once you got to the main trailhead it was covered in trees and I literally let out an AHHHHH. Its been a hot minute since I was surrounded by green. This hike was very necessary for my mental health and I couldn’t have picked a better companion to be on the walk with me.

Debbie pointed out this blue beauty among the yellow.

Someone carefully placed a fallen birds nest on the park bench for all to admire.

Debbie hates going up steps, but climbed a 1000 of them in Australia with her sons while sick, so I assured her she would make it back up. Luckily, the path was circular and getting back did not require any steep inclines.

So peaceful. Except for the occasional hum of the water plant nearby. I loved that this small town community preserved this for its local citizens. Its only 1/2 hour outside of Columbus. I wondered if some people commuted.

Really needed to appreciate nature’s wonderment again.

The colors of green blending together and the moss so thick in places.

Toward the end of the trail, it led us through tall grasses and a corn field. Plenty of benches for people to sit still and bird watch.

Took this photo to remember the name of the trail we took.

They called out the different plant names. I don’t think I would’ve distinguished the difference between popcorn and feed corn.

These beauties were opening up and getting ready for the fall harvest.

Sedona, Arizona- Day 3

Well I named Baby B ‘Sedona’ for a reason. This is an amazing place that I will never tire of.

Sunday morning, our last day of our weekend escape, George got my butt into the car by 6 am so we could reach Sedona by 8 and enjoy a full day there. We watched the sun come up as we drove and I made him pull off at a vista point to catch the mountain view.

This was taken from the vista point rest stop on our way. It was stunning. While admiring the view I also noticed it was freezing cold and immediately started complaining that I forgot to bring a coat.

The sun was glaring through the clouds trying to make its way to warm up the Earth.

Only a couple hours north and the view completely transitioned.

We hit Sedona and I couldn’t stop taking photos out the car window.

I mean seriously. It’s unreal. Painted perfectly. A different landscape.

The red rocks are sprouting up in various places as if they were called to grow.

This rock formation reminded me a bit of Utah’s Arches.

The colors. The combination of warmth and greenery. Stick dark branches and puffs of greenery.

I read about this Cathedral and wanted to visit but it didn’t open until 9 am., even on a Sunday. This is one of the spiritual vortexes in Sedona. A place where energy aligns at right angles.

We drove through to get a sense of the town while most were still asleep.

We took Airport Road which has incredible views like this one along the way. The road ended at the top of a mountain with a $3 parking lot. We parked and started following the hiking trail. George kindly gave me his coat to wear.

Can I just say what a good man my George is. He never rolls his eyes at me or snarls at my remarks. Never makes me feel inadequate or less than. Allows me to babble on and on as if entertained. He is the most supportive, loving, generous man I’ve ever met. I feel so taken care of in his presence as if I was the most important human. This kind of love I hope never to take for granted.

We took the 1/2 mile hike down to the viewpoint.

And what a view. I was somewhat annoyed by all the rooftops as if they didn’t belong there, but can’t blame anyone for wanting to live close by.

Words cannot describe what you feel when you see the red earth, spikey cactus, and miles of gorgeous landscape.

The hike ended where you could climb even further up a rock formation for better views. Was interesting watching how quickly the children were able to escalate.

I struggled to not use every single photo I’d taken. It was simply gorgeous at every turn.

Once I got to the top of the rocks I sat down and took a photo of my sturdy hiking boots that have been with me since my very first US adventures. Purchased them in 2021.

As the clouds moved the lighting changed and yet again offered us new perspectives to breathe in.

George snapped this photo of me. Sitting. Wishing I was not surrounded by tourists getting too close to the edges pushing my nerves and interrupting my peace. But I understand. We all want a piece of the peace.

Wanted to capture the terrain a bit because it was not easy. Twisted ankles were bound to happen if you weren’t careful.

We decided to not do the full loop and instead go grab some food and figure out where to head next. During our brunch we figured out that most trail heads you cannot drive to and instead need to take a shuttle. They did not run frequently (about every 50 minutes) and only took 25 passengers at a time. We missed the first shuttle by 5 minutes. It was windy and cold, but I found if I hiked slightly downward, it was much warmer which is where I waited for the next 40 minutes.

This was the view from where I waited. Ya, I could sit her for 40 minutes.

We hiked another short trail called Soldier’s Pass which had a sinkhole called Devil’s Kitchen and also some iconic pools where people are known to swim.

This trail was crowded and tough to find a pace where you weren’t constantly overhearing someone’s conversation or trying to allow someone to pass.

I read a sign at the sinkhole saying it has expanded 40% in size since the late 80s so it was unstable and would continue to erode. I stepped away from the edge 🙂

I loved these agave plants. They added such spikey personality to the hike.

This sweet dead cactus still inspired me by its change of colors.

You just walk along in awe. I am sure there are other trails that are less busy but we hadn’t deeply researched and wanted a short trail that would not push either of our limits.

It was so windy when you were on top of the mountains and then warm as heck once below. Felt perfectly like my hot flashes at home. Coat on, coat off. Repeat.

The pools were quite dried out. Cool nonetheless. I am sure when it rains it would be beautiful.

George and I hiked up high and hung out on top for a bit watching the people. There was a yoga group which was very cool. Others we could see climbing way off in the distance like ants on a hill.

On our drive out of town I asked George to do a full circle at the roundabout so I could get a close up of these two beauties one last time before leaving. He honored my request.

If I had more time and energy, I would have parked in this lot and hiked closer to this mound. This was my one last look as we headed back down south.

My daughters- Zoe, Sedona and Solaire are going out to Arizona to celebrate the twins birthday next month. I can’t wait for them to see where Baby B’s name originated. I absolutely love that the three of them are going together and hope they have the best experience.

Donkey crossing. Now that’s a new one. How many donkey’s had to get killed before this sign was put up? Things that make you go hmmmmm.

Flying home I was fascinated by the clouds. How they were billowing upwards I almost felt stoned watching them. I decided to apply for an airline credit card to earn 2 free round trip tickets with no black out dates or expiration. More adventures to come!

Wetlands Loop- Glenwood Gardens

Sunday was a beautiful sunny day so after having a relaxing brunch with Rebecca for a much needed catch-up, I forced myself to go out for a hike. The AllTrails app is getting annoying to me, with its constant pop ups with the ‘option to buy. But I can still maneuver my way around it enough to look for new trails.

I found Glenwood Gardens only 20 minutes away, one which I had never heard of before. This park is hidden, tucked behind a McDonalds restaurant. Very obscure location, but surprisingly well kept.

There were three trail options interconnecting. I decided to try them all which was only a total of about 3 miles.

I was able to snap this shot on the AllTrails app to understand a bit of direction prior to hiking.

The entrance to the trails was impressive. Clean open restrooms also available.

At the start of the trail you could see the acreage ahead and the wetlands below. Currently dry.

Shadow shot. There were a few people out walking their dogs and older couples running. The trails themselves were all gravel and easy to follow.

This gazebo has some educational information on the variety of trees in the area.

I’m sure its beautiful in the summer or spring once its green.

I noticed right away the sounds of the birds. Along the paths were many bird houses. Most of the trees also were marked. I felt like this area was preserved and used for studies.

Snow was still in some places escaping the sun that was finally shining bright today.

I loved the coloration of this view with the prickly branches, snow, aqua water and red toned leaves all against that awesome blue sky.

This bridge took you to the Wetlands Trail, which was off the Garden Loop.

Not a whole lot to see, but occasionally I would stop to appreciate the combination of textures winter was showing off.

As I walked I discovered how much people scare me vs being alone. I occasionally stopped to let a man pass me only to be sure I wasn’t being followed. If I were alone, I would have no fear. It makes zero sense except that the world these days seems tilted in mental stability.

Plenty of benches on this trail, which made me think bird watching over the grounds was possibly a summertime activity in this park.

Was a quick hour hike over easy terrain. A good pick to get me going again. Winter months are always difficult. I look forward to my end of the month escape to Arizona. Should provide some interesting landscape along with some warmer spirit lifting weather.

Jefferson Memorial Forest, Scott’s Gap Loop Trail- Kentucky

The sun decided to make an appearance and we never quite know for how long that will be around here. So George and I made plans to go hiking Saturday to get outdoors and move our bodies a bit.

He picked the trail, a place I’d never been but only a 45 minute drive from his place. When we arrived the small parking lot was packed. I wondered if everyone had the same idea as us- but after finding a spot, we realized there was a trail race event going on.

Scott’s Gap Trail is a 3.3 mile loop considered moderate. Marked with orange ties to help the runners find their way.

On AllTrails you can review the route from an ariel view which I thought was pretty cool.

Most of the trails were one lane narrow paths which made it a bit difficult watching for runners coming up behind us. George was pretty good at looking back frequently and letting me know when to pull aside, but at one point in the middle of the loop I think we both were in our own zones of thought and I literally screamed out loud when a runner instantly appeared behind us.

We found out they were running a 31 mile trail race and on this part of the loop they were finishing up mile 20 something. I admired them. One runner commented that he tumbled down a hill at one point but there was only one way out so what choice did he have but to continue.

Reminds me of some other hikes I’ve been on where you really just want to find your car. Also made me remember Debbie volunteering to drag me out of the hike from hell since she knew I was too heavy for a piggy back ride. Honestly, what does one do if something should happen in the middle of a hike. Push those negative thoughts aside.

The dried fallen sticks and leaves mixed with the green moss and acorns covered the floor of most of this forest.

George snapped this photo once we reached the top of the first incline. It really was a pretty view from up there. I was exhausted and sweating just getting to this point. And we only just started.

My left knee was giving me some sharp pain on the inclines. George of course brought along his hiking sticks, which I always thought were for the elderly :) But he loaned them to me on the way up and what a difference they made! I had no idea how much pressure they took off your knees.

Once my body was warmed up, I passed them back to him. But good to know how they work. I honestly never understood them previously. Personally I don’t like having things in my hands, besides my cell phone.

George captured this photo of me looking down over the edge by this pregnant tree. I notice how goofy my camo jacket looked with my cool recycled leggings Sedona and Ki brought me back from Colorado. I put my hands on this tree’s growth.

Most of the woods was bare and bland contrasting beautifully with the blue skies. This was my first hike since October.

I did not dress right for the hike and took off my hoodie and tied it around my waist. Then kept taking on and off my coat and tying it also around my waist. Eventually my turtle neck scarf came up and alternated as a headband. I was not expecting the sun to create such heat so early in the year. Or maybe the inclines were giving me more of a workout than I figured I would be getting.

I teased later that next time, a first hike out, we should consider an easy route not moderate.

I made fun of George for bringing a back pack with water and snacks, since this was only a 3 mile hike. He said “let me do me”. And have to tell you, I was thankful for that water. Helps hanging around more intelligent hikers sometimes. Choose your partner wisely.

Most of the trails were along the top edges of the mountains. Falling down steeply on both sides.

I stopped frequently, to catch my breath, allowing George to wander ahead. Is a little embarrassing not being able to keep up, but then again, I never was one to push myself unless I had to.

A couple times I tried to snap a photo of the runners ahead of us to show the perspective in the woods. They all had water and some had hiking sticks as well. I wondered what they got from running so long in the woods. I suppose meeting a personal goal, certainly isn’t great for the body and no real money/reward at the end unless you’re great. When I mentioned this to George he said, there is never any reward for running. Made me think about why we do what we do.

After the hike we appropriately went to Noble Funk Brewery, where we were one year ago in February about this same time before I road tripped with Zoe across the country. Cheers to full circles and getting back out in the woods again.

Zoe gave me the idea of doing a bingo card for 2024- basically a grid of 5 rows and 5 column squares where we wrote what we wanted to accomplish this year. She said all of mine looked easy- but I liked setting achievable goals to what I wanted to do instead of pushing myself toward a goal I would give up on.

One of my squares was to hike 1 x per month. Here’s to one down and 11 to go.

Cali Trip Day 6- Wedding Rock, Fern Canyon, Prairie Creek Trail, Lighthouse Trail Trinidad

The place we were staying at recommended Cafe Brio in Arcata for breakfast and they were not wrong. Expensive a bit, but well worth it. A great way for us to start our hiking day.

It was filled with a few tourists and college students. Last night at the cidery Zoe was asked if she went to the college there. We had no idea this was a college town. Guess Polytech is pulling in the crowds.

The breakfast spot was on the corner of the town square.

We drove around the square and then headed toward our first destination. We only determined where to go while eating breakfast= Wedding Rock.

We googled mapped our way to the trailhead. It was well marked and easy to follow.

Was a bit chilly and overcast but still an amazing view.

We went up one side first and then headed down the other side to plant ourselves on the rocks.

When I hike inclines I am happy that I am still able. Makes me want to get out even more to explore while I still have my physical capabilities.

Looking down. Wishing I wasn’t afraid of heights.

Steps led down to the other side which revealed even better views.

The color combinations and sound were enough to make you realize what life is about. Sometimes when I hike at such beautiful places, I feel like I have been blessed to be witness to this.

Trying to stay warm and catch Zoe in my selfie as she climbed down.

If you look at the rocks to the left, it looks like a couple facing each other. Hence the name.

We sat here for quite awhile. Just sitting. Zoe videoing and using her old fashion digital camera.

We hiked another trail but it led to Mussel Rock which wasn’t as interesting. It was interesting that there were tsunami signs which reminded me of Thailand.

I snapped this photo as we exited so I could remember where we were.

We drove north and eventually were officially in the Redwoods National Park.

We pulled over at a beach which we could view from the trail we were just on.

The look of the sand was darkly colored and had a unique texture. Small shellfish carnage could be spotted everywhere.

Directly across the highway from this beach was a tiny community tucked away in the evergreens. Zoe kept feeling like she was in the Twilight movie.

I love travelling with someone who loves exploring and pit stopping to soak in a new view. We got back into our Big Blue SUV and set the map to Fern Canyon. I read great reviews of it on Tiktok, people claiming it as a “must see”.

The road to get there was super narrow and winding. Zoe was driving and I just looked out the window at the view instead of concerning myself if another car would come barreling our way.

I snapped a shot on Google maps upon arriving. Basically in the middle of nowhere and yet in the best place you could be surrounded by nature.

I mean seriously the history of nature. It must be fascinating to study.

Walking into the canyon you are surrounded by ferns.

Ferns lined the walls of the canyon as we puddle jumped our way deeper in.

Selfie. I stole her hat. I was thankful for the pullover Dale and Angela gave me one night when it got chilly on their back porch. It travelled all the way to Cali with me.

Zoe needs to invest in a pair of hiking boots, she wore her wool socks and tevas. But I understand other wardrobe choices would be her priority in LA with all the events she attends. I was happy her footwear sufficed.

Trying to recapture the moment from the tall trees. I even tried to jump and nearly peed my pants laughing. Zoe would show me my face’ which was in serious concentration to lift.

Another red mushroom. They are huge. Most we found were not whole like this one.

Other shrooms showing off softly among the sticky branches and cones.

With all the moisture in this area understandably it provided for the ferns and the fungi as well.

We hiked another trail after emerging from the canyon to the beach. It was one of the best spots we found. I could’ve sat there all day.

This beach was so long. And the pebbles sprinkled throughout could of kept me hunting for hours.

Again. Look at that! The clouds, the pines, the beach and water. God /The Creator is beyond our tiny human comprehension.

Love the combination with the grasses separating the woods and the sand.

We weren’t sure where to go to next. But decided to hike Prairie Trail, another recommendation from our Airbnb host in Arcata.

I snapped a photo of this upon arrival in case our phone maps no longer worked once we got inside the woods.

We saw you could hike to Fern Canyon from here – only 4.6 miles. But later when we saw the sign pointing to the direction to go, it came with huge warnings about not being easy and making sure you were equipped properly. Debbie and I could’ve used that warning in Yellow Springs.

The trail was perfect. Easy. Picturesque.

There were several streams and you could hear the running water as you hiked. Was wonderful.

Almost looks fake this shot. As if a painting.

Many had burn marks which we later read they had been hit by lightning. But it created such an added palette, their wounds.

I felt like I couldn’t capture the feeling and kept taking photos in hope of later remembering their presence.

It was about this point when I started to slow down.

You could literally camp inside the tree base.

The other trees in the forest were equally marvelous with their curly moss like branches and vivid yellow leaves. I wanted to be sure not to overlook them and their contribution.

I wondered if kids felt the same awe as we did as an adult exploring here or if they always feel small so being surrounded by massive trees seemed the same.

One more time. Captured. I should do a collage of her fun jumps.

After we crossed the road it was just a little bit further to a documented tree. We decided it was worth it as we had already come this far.

It didn’t seem so big to me. But when I backed up to try to capture it with Zoe in front, it was like a skyscraper.

Spotting a heart for Anne. She’s the one person who pointed out the hearts in nature. Always interesting what each person brings to your perspectives.

Often times you felt like you were in a movie and the trees set the mood.

It was like touching an elephant. The beauty and texture of the skin/bark.

As we exited the trail we again saw an Elk warning sign. I really wanted to see one. It’s sort of like the moose warning signs you see in Vermont, but you never see one.

We got back in the car and were getting hungry. Zoe found a small restaurant in Trinidad that served mashed potatoes in a waffle cone. So of course we aimed for that!

Along the way, I started screaming ” elk in the water, elk in the water”- and we spotted a elk finally in its natural habitat in a stream by the highway. Was really cool.

After eating we drove around Trinidad a bit, there was a lighthouse which was a landmark. We found the beach and then decided to hike the Lighthouse Trail. Mind you, when we decided to hike this trail I imagined it to be very short and not steep. I was pooped from an already full day of activity.