I saw signs to this park while driving down a country road near George’s house. I was killing time while he worked, just checking out the area. I discovered these secluded trails off in the countryside. I’ve been there twice now. Once I tried to check out the waterfall, but there wasn’t really anything there to see. May be better in the spring after a rainfall.
The second time I did the 2.4 mile loop which was quiet, muddy and complete with some steep hills to get the blood pumping. There was a creek along the bottom of the valley and the trail took you alongside for a bit but then up the inclines again to walk along the ridges.
Great clean park with great signage throughout.
Going to the waterfall was a narrow steep muddy trail. This is when I’m most thankful for the roots that stop my slide.
Waterfall area, looking down. Nothing coming over the rocks.
I admired the foam green moss growing on the damp branches.
Quite a few bridges crossing back and forth across the creek.
Reflection of the trees in the still water added to this simple shot.
Could be fun with kids in the summer to dig in the creek for fossils.
The ice from the week before hadn’t melted yet off the wood.
The creek was now muddy instead of clear.
Trails changed from mud paths to mowed grass pathways.
I stumbled onto this abandoned structure and wondered what it was meant to be. There was a fire pit inside where I imagine teenagers hung out at night.
It reminded me of the abandoned warehouses in Phuket where there was great graffiti art and people sleeping. Here, just rusty metal and wood.
Landscape was somewhat boring with the bare trees and brown and tinted green ground. I’m ready for a change in scenery. One week from today I will be in Memphis. That should be a great new city to check out.
Looking back after I climbed up the hill to the final turn out to the parking lot.
My hiking boots have put in the miles. Today mud filled.
Atter my first hike I made my way to Westport beside the Ohio River and admired the clean lines. It was definitely a more grey day. Winters can be hard with the sun hiding for weeks at a time.
Driving out after the second hike I admired this beautiful scenery. I loved the weathered wood and how the worn white and red paint contrasted to the blue in the sky.
Sunday morning with the time change, I got an early start. I viewed waterfalls, sat on rocks watching rapids and even captured a few bridge viewpoints. It was only noon, so I decided a quick trail would be the perfect way to end the afternoon.
I looked on All Trails and found the Long Point Trail which said its an easy 3 mile hike.
I thought it would be a gentle walk in the woods. I wasn’t expecting the inclines.
I usually don’t like trails that are out and back, I always prefer a loop.
I entered to what seems super easy.
Level walkway maintained. I ran into the two women from the Castle Rock Trail ironically and they said “hey, its the girl with the skull shirt from yesterday :)” They encouraged me to go to the end, it was worth it.
It was like hiking back in Ohio. A lot of woods, nothing too different about the landscape.
I challenged myself to find some beauty and collected some leaves as I walked.
Took this photo for Debbie, Christmas in November. Anytime I see berries I think of her.
It was a quiet solo walk. I eventually would catch up with hikers heading back out but never passed anyone.
I felt a bit confused by this sign which became my nemesis later.
I spotted some fungi decorating a tree. Enjoyed the textures of the bark, dried leaves moss and mushrooms.
Interesting tree roots which I felt could inspire any scary movie.
The leaf covered path, the sound of my feet swooping them with every step.
Looking up at the admirable yellow hanging on.
The roots became a challenge.
I finally got to a ledge that showed our heights.
Was quite a view.
A perfect view of the bridge.
I snapped a selfie for fun.
Gorgeous day. I sat up here for bit on the ledge while a group of younger guys sat off to the side eating their packed lunch. Check out the lines in this photo, the angles naturally met. Even the clouds were behaving and playing their part.
I agree it was worth the hike.
On my walk back I was drained. I imagine my face was bright red and I was dying for some water.
My feet were hurting and I was cursing my 200$ shoes which are a bit small. I thought they would break in eventually, but now I am not so sure.
I kept going.
Spotted this beauty who seemed like a flag of some sort among the trees.
I thought I spotted a short cut on the map so I wandered that way for another 20 minutes. A path less taken.
Was definitely a different route.
I took my leaves out of my pocket and laid them out to admire.
This trail was covered in pine needles and not a soul in site.
I later found out the name of it.
I exited the trail only to find out I was in the wrong parking area. I literally wanted to beg someone to drive me back to my spot. I was even tempted to ask if they had any water since I was parched. But I didn’t. Sometimes when you travel alone and don’t talk to anyone for awhile, its awkward to speak again. I find myself stumbling to be social.
I google mapped my way back to the correct trailhead. If I walked the street route it was going to take me 28 minutes but if I back tracked my way through the woods, it was only 23. This short cut added another hour onto my “easy” afternoon hike. I was determined to make it back to my car and hit a brewery immediately for an ice water and a beer!
The return walk definitely gave me time to wonder why we don’t follow our instincts more. I knew before I veered off that the way I was going was correct. Interesting to me, why we change directions and ignore our guts. A helpful reminder I must have needed.
This morning with the time change, I was able to get an early start and decided to check out a few things closer to where I was staying. Saturday I drove about 45 minutes south to hike. Today I decided to stay within a 20 minute parameter.
In such a short radius, I conquered a lot. My legs are killing me. My first destination was Henderson Falls, I was eager to get some time beside water. I had no idea to get to this location, I would be taken down the most windy one lane road I’ve ever been on. It was fun since I was alone.
That’s one thing about travelling by myself. I answer only to my instinct, my needs and time is mine to waste. No consideration needed for others feelings or agenda. I pulled over several times to enjoy the views.
This was my first stop. I crossed this bridge coming over and now I was below it.
I foolishly stopped in the middle of these tracks to snap a photo. It was so beautiful to me how the train followed the river.
Crossing over this bridge made you restore you faith in man made structures. You had to believe it would hold despite the sound and feeling below your wheels.
As I was crossing the one lane rickety bridge I spotted the rapids below and had to reach them. I stopped and hiked though a treacherous slippery rock area to get to the water.
It reminded me of Phuket when Jason did this sort of rock climbing in his flip flops with ease. Here I was testing every step with caution.
I made it! The roar of the water was perfectly deafening. I love watching the water move over the rocks and dip into pools created by the depth.
The sun was shining the other way making it difficult to capture with my Iphone. Time I trade my old version in. The only real reason for me to upgrade is the quality of the photos. I cherish my photo memory log.
Downstream was a perfect view of the bridge.
It was fun feeling so small below the traffic. Hidden from view. Beyond where most dared to climb.
The rocks were slick with moss and dampness. Only the larger rocks were secure to step on.
I drove onward and stopped at this cute cascade after I crossed a small bridge.
Further down the road I pulled over to hike a trail. I ran into a woman who told me the waterfall was worth the incline. She joyfully explained how you could feel the water. I could tell she loved nature as much as I do. Her husband patiently waited in the car.
The view when crossing the walking bridge.
Of course I had to climb under for a different viewpoint. I wonder if I will ever be too old to be childlike in my hiking adventures.
The woman didn’t lie. It was amazing! I was giddy. I was taken back by the sound, immersion and beauty. The moss structure added such a dimension to it all.
Nature. It goes without saying. Just amazing. My imagination could never have created such a site.
From a side view, it seems weak. But once you were in front of it you felt its power.
On my way back, I hiked beyond the bridge to see the mini waterfalls.
It was lush and moss covered from the moisture.
I headed back to the welcome center to see what other trails there were to hike. I noticed they had a multi level walkway so I decided to take the – way too many steps down- to check out the view.
My legs were still in decent shape so what the heck. The day was young.
The view of the New River Bridge was perfect.
I decided to head over to this view point which was within 20 minutes. But I got lost and ended up at the ACE adventure stop which was totally crowded. Obviously a popular facility for families.
I found my way out of that parking lot and up to this viewpoint. Was interesting to see. I watched a couple kayaking around the bend wondering how they would know when to stop and who would get them.
You can see the railroad tracks following along.
The West Virginia mountains are non stop. As difficult as they are to hike, its worth the climb.
After going to my car to grab some much needed water after my 3 hour hike, I decided to check out one more trail that was nearby. Not sure when I will get this way again. Trying hard not to feel obligated or rushed, but rather made the choice since I still felt there was energy left in my legs to endure another, hopefully easier, shorter, walk.
There was nobody near this trailhead.
Seeing how it connected to the other trails I conquered.
I noticed all these bright green baby pines.
Came across a warning sign about black bears. The warning was cutely worded, saying if you see one, sit back and enjoy. But if they come towards you, don’t move. Not sure I could do that, guess it would depend on how big it was.
Walking down the steps I noticed that flat rock and I climbed up and laid down for a bit.
Sun on my face and the cool rock on my back. It was wonderful. I almost fell asleep. Not a person in sight.
This trail was also difficult to follow.
Tons of rocks and later I saw some manmade metal scaffolding which made me leery to climb.
Love that ray just pointing out its power. We would have nothing without the sun.
Really beautiful rock ledges.
I was thinking this would be beautiful in the snow.
Saw this tunnel and climbed for a closer look.
But I decided not to crawl though. Not really sure why. Instinct.
Great to be in the woods again. Exploring in peace. Remembering what life is about.
I planned a weekend alone within driving distance a couple months ago, knowing I would need rest. I couldn’t have timed this trip any better. Literally. I just finished up a freelance project which felt rushed, then my boss was let go on the same day I was training a new hire. Thank God the new hire was someone I knew from my past job at SKL, who I trust fully and with her by my side, made the chaos seem more tolerable.
But I was at my wits end the day before I left for West Virginia. I took my daughter’s advise and looked on TikTok for places to see- and that’s how I found Castle Rock Trail.
In typical style, I only saw a recommendation for this trail but didn’t research it any further. Once I started on the trail, I learned it connected to another.
I had all day to explore and the weather was amazing so I decided to continue the hike to the Turkey Spur Rock Viewpoint.
Driving into the park.
I knew my timing was bad, as a big group arrived at the same time and I wondered how their walking on the trail would affect me. I was hoping for some quiet time. They were a couples group obviously enjoying a weekend away together.
There was a sidewalk that took you from the parking lot to this viewpoint immediately. I imagine most people just drove around and checked out the views. I figured that may be me when I get older.
I saw the entrance to the trail and hustled to hopefully get a jump start as the group continued to gather.
It was difficult to see the trail with all the fallen leaves.
Surprisingly the walk was tough from the start with a lot of rocks and unsteady terrain.
I heard the group behind me and felt pressured to keep moving. So I decided to climb and sit on a perch for a bit until they all passed.
I saw a large rock and tried to figure out how to get up there.
The rocks started forming as a natural wall making the path even narrower.
I was able to climb up, grabbing onto sturdy vines and I sat on this ledge for about 15 minutes. One of the women had two knee braces on and all of them had their walking sticks. They had no idea I was with a birds-eye view and I overheard the disabled woman and husband start fighting. I wondered if she was going to make it or turn back. Later the men went ahead and a couple of her girlfriends came back to walk with her. Made me sad how couples lose sight of each other.in life. He even said, “I am sure this is going to end up my fault.” Why. Why is anyone at fault?
As I walked able bodied, I truly respected the woman who seemed to manage this trail with each step cautiously being placed.
Back in my game. Feeling like myself again. Loving nature.
It didn’t get easier. Whenever I would catch up to the women ahead, I would sit and pause for a couple minutes to give them space.
I imagine just a couple weeks ago the colors would have been amazing here.
Looking up to gain perspective.
Rocks rocks and more rocks.
An occasional cave would appear.
Along the way on the right was the river. I would sneak peaks from the different viewpoints.
This trail was challenging but beautiful. Reminded me a bit of Red River Gorge in Kentucky.
Look at that art.
The angles of these trees with the rock wall was interesting.
Looking down at the river made me realize how high up we were.
Sometimes I felt I was on a fairytale trail through the woods.
The landscape changed and become much easier.
The clouds rolled in with the wind but it was still humid.
Trying to understand my location in comparison to the park and where I am staying. I am in Fayetteville at a Big Foot themed Airbnb. Complete with a book of his local sightings. Highly recommend!
One bright yellow tree standing proudly around all the bare branched friends.
Really was beautiful everywhere you turned.
Made it to the end viewpoint, but wasn’t happy to see all the steps. Was hoping my calves would hold out for me and not freeze in a cramp.
Came this far, had to get to the top.
I felt sorry for the disabled woman, who I ran into here. They thanked me for being patient with them. They noticed me all along.
Mountains as far as you can see.
Was worth the climb.
I loved how these leaves were remaining colorful as if they were planted flowers along the walkway.
This branch entertained me with its dancing legs.
On the way back, to avoid the rocks, I took the road for most of it.
It was time to check in with KangKang again and she asked to go on a hike. It was the perfect opportunity for us to get some quality time together but also catch the fall leaves in transition. It was a gorgeous morning when I arrived and the day continued to bless us throughout.
We saw double numbers when we started. I thought of Virlane and her angel numbers. These double digits appeared several times throughout the day and made us feel we were meant to be together. Afterall, the Universe did connect us and we both know that it was not by chance. Rarely is the Universe so lazy as to allow for coincidences.
I found this small trail on the map that promised water and was in the right direction to the shopping mall we were going to hit later.
We got there early and there was only a handful of people out. I’d never been to this area of Columbus before.
Literally the minute we walked into the main trail the trees welcomed us with an enlightened calm of green and yellow.
I kept looking at the fallen leaves, admiring how large they were.
I walked out onto this rock ledge to peer at the stream below. We were determined to find our way down there.
Kang Kang kept saying how beautiful our country is and how her mom would love to hike here. I could tell she was a bit homesick. After the excitement and nervousness of coming to a new place settles, you are left with the reality of your choices and the loneliness that you are faced with.
The trail couldn’t have been better. Each portion showed a new combination of colors.
Looking down instead of up made me think about the beauty of the decent rather than the climb.
We found a way to get down to the flat rocks by the stream and sat for quite a bit talking about personality tests, loved ones and the challenges facing us.
Nothing beats listening to the water move.
Noticing how the leaves created a natural dam in spots, adding color to the grey rocks.
Was so nice to sit together before trying to hunt down some winter attire for the months ahead. When she was buying her Timberland boots, a kind lady next to us told her how much she was going to love the snow. She can’t wait. She’s never experienced it before in her life. Such a treat she has yet to savor.
Beauty in decay.
Noticing the reflection in the still water.
Looking up was such an experience that is only temporarily colored during this fascinating season. Always good to enjoy it through someone’s new eyes. Imagine never seeing this before. How cool it must feel to be surrounded by it live, instead of just on the pages of Instagram.
The yellow was vibrant in places.
But the mixture of colors was the best!
I haven’t been hiking much this fall and am about to miss the season. Hoping to finish up some projects to be able to get out again before it vanishes.
Heading back, we breathed it all in.
“Nothing gold can stay”- Robert Frost.
But friendship can and the way the sun rays broke through the trees capturing us in this selfie was validation of ours.
Putting aside time for friends I never regret. My circle has always provided me with insight and growth as I listen to their stories and we catch up on our lives. Most of my friends by now know a walk in the woods is an excellent way to get onto my calendar.
I’m pet/house sitting this weekend up in the Mason area which is exciting because that means new trails to explore.
This looked like an odd trail located in the backfields of a baseball park. I was a bit nervous that it was a bike path, but opted to check it out anyways.
Immediately I was welcomed by wildflowers.
This plant mystified me as it was swarming with mating bugs. If you look closely you will see there are two bugs on top of each other. I thought spring was mating season, but apparently these guys are in it for fall.
Our path led under thick tree coverage which was great for beating the late afternoon sun.
This tall weed was so pretty sprouting its purple horns.
These daisies were temptingly pickable. I wanted to make a bouquet, but snapped a photo instead.
We stumbled across the stream. I love the sound of the running water. Have you all seen the reel going around on Instagram where the man speaks about “what if God is actually water”? It was so eye opening to me.
We came across some flat rock falls.
The steep bank kept us from crossing or getting a closer look.
Vines intertwined with many of the trees.
Looking down from the edge.
Sarah wore tie dye appropriately. I also was wearing my new tie dye tee that George bought for me at a street fair. I regret not taking a selfie of us together. We looked quite the pair.
I was able to cross the stream and squatted in the middle on a rock to breathe in this view, admiring all the textures placed into one gorgeous place.
We kept climbing up and down as the path wickedly wove in and out. We only encountered one group of mountain bikers who seemed to be struggling with the terrain.
This Sycamore tree reminded me of vitiligo.
Fungi was everywhere.
We were lost for a bit and ended up at the opposite end where we discovered another falls.
Later kids were playing in the water as their parents sat by watching them enjoy the simple joys in life, electronic free.
A beautifully decaying tree like a piece of art itself.
We exited to find this tribute. Agree light is found under the coverage of trees.
Fungi beauty dressing up this tree stump.
Logs for bikers being slowly absorbed by the earth. Reminded me of the metal bike sign I saw on a tree previously that was being swallowed by the bark. Nature may be slow at times but it is very powerful.
Another slow progression of decay and absorption with this termite invested tree.
As we were heading out I spotted this large camouflaged toad. First time I’ve seen one so large.
After an hour’s walk in the heat, I talked Sarah into checking out a brewery that was only 1.5 miles away. We arrived thankfully before the rush and relaxed at a picnic bench outdoors cooling off with a cold brew and some grub.
As trusted friends we were open with our vulnerability and honest with one another about the challenges we are facing. Oftentimes I appreciate how alcohol can give you bravery to speak your truths.
This is located in the midst of an industrial park. Strange location, but everyone found it even on a weekend. I can imagine it being a hot spot after work, if in fact people are going into the offices.
The outdoor seating was a perfectly spaced open area welcoming the mixed aged crowd complete with dogs and children.
This quote reminds me of all my friends who are ever changing and finding themselves again in mid life.
Always love a state park. They were a Godsend when I was road tripping, always offering a place to camp or crash for the night. There was one only 12 minutes from Ann’s house, so I talked her into hitting a trail with me. I bet this area in Ohio has some amazing hikes but honestly I just wanted to get out for quick bit before I headed back home.
We picked an out and back trail so we could stop at a certain hour and turn around. I thought it would be scenic since it went along the lakeside.
There were several trails from this trailhead, but we stuck with our original route and took a left after climbing a steep incline up to the lake.
Snapped this selfie before we got too sweaty and worn out. Just getting started.
As soon as we got to the top we were able to see a view of the lake. There were a few kayakers and fisherman but otherwise quite still.
After the open field area, we were immediately welcomed by the shade provided with the heavy tree coverage.
The trail was narrow and Ann and I walked single filed. I’m sure she only heard half of what I was babbling about 🙂
Trees were tall beauties. Looking up to see their reach.
Occasionally we would get a peak through the trees at the quiet lake. We did pass a group of young men swimming which looked fun.
Mushrooms were everywhere.
Ann spotted this tiny pink one. You can see her shoe for size reference. Not even sure how she spotted him.
This one reminded us of Alice in Wonderland.
The narrow path just kept going. Probably around the entire lake.
A very peaceful walk in the woods.
Discovered this white wonder on the leaf along the trail.
We put in a solid hour then headed back to Ann’s for an amazing brunch to fill my belly before heading back to Cincy.
I wondered why there weren’t more boats out.
Such cool colors.
The moss and shroom combo is so delicate. God is amazing with details.
This handsome tree was no joke on the lookout.
We resurfaced out from the tree coverage to the grassy plain to take us back to where we started.
Looking down from our viewpoint at where we parked. Surrounded by green.
This love bug was so entertaining to me. I wondered who had the humor, why and how long ago. Eye catching along Route 550.
Was so happy to squeeze in a hike while visiting West Michigan. My sister and I decided to hit a trail she was familiar with and in the hour we were there we went up and down every side trail available.
Any easy loop with a lot of inside trails.
Made Trish pose in front of the sign which also warned about “no sledding” during the winter months which up here is at least half the year.
The minute you walked in you could smell the aroma of pine.
In the middle of this forest is a sand dune. West Michigan is full of sand and it makes the beaches amazingly soft and the dunes out here a challenge to hike.
There are little wood forts created along the way. We also saw many people reading in hammocks enjoying the summer’s humidity free weather.
Reminded me of a trail I hiked in Edisto Beach.
It was fun hiking with my sister. We haven’t really spent a lot of quality time together in years and with her recent move to Grand Rapids, I had an excellent excuse to stay and explore with her over an extended stay.
Reminded us of the woods that were out outside our back yard growing up.
Fresh mushrooms a surprise as we hurdled some fallen trees.
I felt like this tree was special with a tutu skirt or hat. Just interesting the way her branches filled at a certain level.
Then we spotted this glory down a side trail. Was so cool to hear my sister speak of her the same way I do, admiring her scars and curves.
Dead and waiting for the right storm to fall. In the meantime still allowing her beauty to shine.
Such a beautiful trail.
Another little tee pee complete with a welcoming walkway.
Another view of the sand desert before we headed back.
Perfect way to end my work week. Walking and catching up.
They actually spray painted the roots to let you know what trail you were on. I’d never seen this before. Only colored tree markings or posts.
Someone took the time to arrange the pinecones, sticks and leaves in this path. Man and nature, a perfect couple.
One last glance at the pines before we headed back to pick up her husband Tim to start our brewery hop and embrace a proper weekend.
After returning from the Blue Hen Falls which was only a 2.4 mile hike, we decided we had time and energy to hike another. This one was recommended by the park ranger as it was further in the park and away from the traffic.
Most of the other hikers followed the paved path, so I decided to cross the field and escape into what I thought was a road less travelled.
I was not disappointed! Always, as long as you have GPS, try a different route.
As soon as we went into the forest, I knew I was going to like this trail better. It led along a rocky height and when looking down you could see another trail.
The trees surviving among the rocks is so interesting to me.
George was dealing with some stressful business and I was trying hard not to let it effect my peace. So I sat along this edge of the overlook for a bit while he handled his calls.
He captured this of me looking up.
Just trying to get new perspectives wondering if our entire weekend was going to be dismantled by intermittent distractions of real life.
The skin of this tree stood out and I enjoyed looking down at its base admiring how far it had come.
I understood why they named this one “Ledges”.
Such a boy scout with his backpack of water and snacks. I never eat or drink while hiking, not sure why. Maybe I never pushed myself hard enough or long enough to need it.
Hoping we could enjoy the rest of the day.
Again with the trees and rocks. How they hold onto each other seamlessly.
We definitely enjoyed this trail more with the natural and quiet terrain.
Once we were down on the lower level, looking up at these monstrous rocks left me awestruck.
I mean seriously. How can you not be fascinated when you see this root system.
We were practically alone on this trail which surprised me since there were so many cars in the parking lot when we arrived.
Checking out the coloration and texture variety.
I decided to climb up the rocks. Sadly wishing I was alone to meditate and really soak it all in. Sometimes hiking with others is great because the conversations are wonderful and seeing through others eyes can be equally fascinating. Other times I need the space to be myself. George allows me this space to climb and be me as he patiently awaits below.
I truly enjoyed this trail and all it offered.
Reminded me a bit of the Red River Gorge.
Natural beauty. Never thin or made up.
But balanced and diverse.
With layers of interesting change and adaptation.
Every couple of feet there was something new to see.
A wonderful path to take.
Rocks are starting to get my attention as much as trees.
I wish I wore green to fit in better 🙂
We were nearing the end and I was happy we selected this one as a follow up to Blue Hen.
My determined never quitting partner in crime.
Can’t get enough.
Like they are holding hands and became one.
Looking up a the beauty which is free.
I of course climbed in to see what was behind this rock curtain. It was a secluded alcove that made me envision living back in time, seeking shelter and living with the land.
This of course started me wanting to road trip again. For months at a time, which led to talks of hope of van life one day. Maybe on a more upscale level and something more substantial that I could use over time. A girl can dream.
Tonya Takes Thailand 