Henderson Falls, New River Gorge Bridge, and Concho Overlook- West Virginia

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.

Tunnel Trail- New River Gorge, West Virginia

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.

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.

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.

Castle Rock Trail, Grandview Rim Trail to Turkey Spur Rock- New River Gorge, West Virginia

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Landen Deerfield Park Trail- Ohio

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.

The steep bank kept us from crossing or getting a closer look.

Vines intertwined with many of the trees.

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.

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.

Dow Lake Trail- Strouds Run State Park- Athens, Ohio

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.

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.

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.

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.

Cox Arboretum- Dayton, Ohio

Debbie and I put this date on our calendars a couple months back. We weren’t sure where we were going but wanted an excuse to get away. It was the weekend before her birthday, so the timing was perfect to celebrate.

We met up at the Cox Arboretum. I saw someone post about it on FB and I had never heard of it before. It’s right off the highway and distance wise right in the middle of where Debbie and I live.

I took a photo of the map but it didn’t help us from getting lost in the trails.

A nice time to visit with the flowers now in bloom. There were so many families getting professional photos taken. Made me regret never having professional shots done when the kids were younger.

A couple stopped along the sidewalk and watched as I cuddled the flowers of this beautiful bush. They asked me if I knew what it was. I did not. But I encouraged them to touch it too and they did. It was feathery soft and so delicate.

I sat on this rock waiting for Debbie, watching the coy and turtles swim.

This mallard acted like he was a professional at getting his photo taken. Had no fear whatsoever. Notice the cute turtles sunning on the rock behind him. This arboretum was such a great little place.

Loved how the trees in the background spiked against the fluffy pink petals.

Man made landscaping, perfectly manicured.

I spotted this treehouse and convinced Debbie to go up even though I know she hates steps. But it was not too bad of a climb.

It was fun to get to the top and check out the view.

We talked about jumping and whether we would survive or not. It reminded me of our cliff jumping Christmas Day in Phuket with my girls.

Led us to a bird watching area. But there honestly weren’t many birds. Just a marshland to look out on, but it was a shaded place to sit for a bit.

I think the outside trail was about 1.5 miles around.

Never forgetting to look up. Always reminding myself to pause.

Debbie walks at a good pace that I can keep up with. We both get a little exercise but never are exhausted. Great to catch up on life while also appreciating nature.

Check out how that branch curves as if framing the bench.

Sugarcreek MetroPark- Dayton, Ohio

Wanting to explore more Debbie and I, being the overachievers that we are, decided to find a another true trail to conquer before checking into our Airbnb in Southpark. We headed 20 minutes east to Sugarcreek.

Dayton really does a good job at marking their trails.

We decided to take the outer loop, but actually ended off trail and through some pretty muddy areas. I was glad I swapped out my tevas for my hiking boots.

I love that the green is back in season and shading the pathways.

Saw this hallow tree and Debbie encouraged me to climb inside.

I was thinking I could probably sleep in there. But then spotted the ants and decided conceptually against it.

Me taking a photo of Debbie taking a photo of me.

There was sidewalk chalk left on a bench so we decided to add to the graffiti.

Debbie gave this wood piece a personality.

I had no idea what the three sisters were, but of course was going to find out.

I made Debbie go pose so you could get a sense of perspective.

They were magnificent. I guess these are the sisters. Except we didn’t see the third.

We crossed over the creek and this is where things went astray for a bit.

Cute couple walking hand in hand. She was wearing a skirt and didn’t seem hiking ready which made me wonder if this was planned or a first date continued.

Such a tangled mess we were about to walk under.

I was appreciating these baby wildflowers.

Was truly picturesque. I have been working three jobs and I very much needed to breathe in the woods again. Helps my soul so much. Makes it all worthwhile. A true day of rest.

I blasted out this photo so you could see the curves in the trunk. It was naturally carved into life. I felt like she was reaching for me.

We came across this stone staircase and I encouraged Debbie to walk down with me.

River roots always make me better understand life and strength.

Some kids came down and took off their shoes and played a bit while Debbie and I sat across the way on a stone watching them.

The trail out. My hips were hurting and we were both a humid sweaty mess. I gave myself mental strength by planning to look up the closest brewery and head there for a much needed cool break while we waited for the Airbnb code.

There was a huge storm coming and we barely made it to a bar before it poured!

We ended up sitting at Toxic Brew in the Oregon district and enjoyed a couple cold ones while sitting outside watching and listening to the storm.
We were tennis partners,
Synchronized swimmers,
Friends since childhood.
Friends for Life.

University of Tennessee Gardens- Knoxsville

Sunday before heading out of town, we hit one last recommended place. Thing about travelling with my twins, they grab attention everywhere they go. People want to talk to them and its interesting to see how they easily engage in conversations with strangers.

It was great having them note all the places to go from local’s mouths, tossing all the research and bookmarked places aside. I have taught them well. I never would have heard or even thought about checking out the University’s Gardens, but it ended up being the perfect Mother’s Day destination.

This mascot was everywhere when we were riding the trolley through campus and here he was at the gardens as well.

Located right along the curve of the river. Don’t you wonder how Google maps knows a location is busier than usual?

Cute colorful sculpture at the entrance. They also had a creative kids area which I avoided.

Literally stopped to admire the unique scent and shape of these bushes.

Look at the varying colors of this beauty!

I never realized before how the different colors smell, but it makes sense.

I enjoyed seeing them in their natural environment.

Zozo up ahead. I admire how she is at ease in front of every photo never worrying about how she is captured. She is uniquely herself always. Such a light.

This garden seemed to be run by volunteers.

Each maintained a certain designated area. We knew who the slackers were.

I wished she would have been in bloom somehow.

Greenhouse in the background assuming was part of the education at UT.

There was a cactus section that reminded me of my trip out West in May last year.

This became a natural part of the landscape as an antique sculpture.

Honey bee and designated pollinator wildflowers.

Was thinking of my mom who loved purple.

We all meandered separately and occasionally I would see Zoe and holler at her to pose.

My favorite part was this hidden meditation garden. I started at the entrance and walked my way through the maze which instinctively reminded me that our roads turn and we do not know where they lead but must trust and enjoy the twists and turns. It was a perfect reset for me.

Twin Falls- Rock Island State Park, Tennessee

On our way to Chattanooga, we decided to take a detour to the Rock Island State Park which is south of Cooksville, Tennessee. We randomly pulled it up when researching hikes and thought it may be a nice stop along the way to break up the drive.

We stopped at the information center because George is obsessed with brochures and hey, ya never know who might have new ones 🙂 Picked up this free map from a gal that had zero personality and certainly was not in love with her job.

We drove back the way we came in and crossed over several bridges until we finally met a dead end where the trail head appeared. Surprisingly there was only a couple cars in the lot.

Immediately upon exiting the car you could hear the roar of the falls and I was super anxious to get to them.

I was so excited. I had to figure out a way to get closer.

My model captured naturally. Seriously an amazing site of my love and nature 🙂

Further downstream there were more cascading falls.

I looked up ahead and if I could figure out a way to cross this part of the river to that island, I could certainly scale the rocks to the opposite side to take a closer look.

I made it across after much hesitation, strategic planning of my steps and completely soaking my boots. Well worth this up close experience where I found two other girls meditatively taking it in.

I honestly felt a little guilty leaving George behind. He had a swollen ankle and was timidly walking as it was. I went to the far corner and snapped this shot of him.

I’d love to go back here again and sit for hours. Can you see me in this photo? Shows you how close I got. George took it from where he stood. Imagine the sound, it was deafening.

Oddly, for the first time, I felt like being alone was not enough. I really wanted George with me to experience it. I am a solo traveler at heart and always embrace being silent in nature. But today, I felt a tug to get back to sort of celebrate this site.

I think I’ve had this look since childhood.

As we drove away, we had to stop at this adorable, teenage run, ice-cream trolley.

I opted for coffee flavor, in hopes of staying awake for the remainder of the car ride.

Cincinnati Nature Center- Far Ridge Trail, Rowe Woods

I opened a link that someone posted on FB about the top ten hikes in Ohio and discovered the Cincinnati Nature Center which is only 30 minutes from me. So happy!

It was a gorgeous weekend, hotter than usual and I had plans with my neighbor Nancy to spend the afternoon outdoors. Nancy is usually my urban hiking partner who always leaves me in the dust going up and down the Cincinnati “hills.

It was Earth Day, what a perfect time to discover a new trail.

There are several trails to pick from and this one appeared to be in the “green space.

Beautiful garden walkways. They also had a lot of vendors selling natural hand made products which made me regret leaving my wallet in the car.

Cute metal sculpture with names of donors.

The trails were not well marked and I did my best with the AllTrails app to get ourselves started in the right direction. In the end a nice employee guided us to the limestone steps that eventually took us down.

Once we got to the herb garden, we took a sharp right and followed the path.

Lush greenery lined the trails. It costs $10 per person to get in. Seemed steep to me at first, but well worth it. I can’t imagine how much it costs to maintain this area.

There were a lot of steps. And between my lovely hot flashes and the sun, I soon lost my tee and hiked mostly in my tank.

We travelled up and down getting a very good workout.

Eventually there was a stream which we had to cross several times. I literally was so hot I walked in the water, cooling off with my easy dry sneakers. Nancy continued to rock hop to stay dry.

Many of the wildflowers were in bloom. Was really pretty. I should have stopped more to admire them.

Unsuccessfully attempting to capture the colors of the blue flowers and purple on the trees.

What do you see? Janet Jackson possibly? I loved how the flowers were sprouting off the tumors” of the tree.

Sending Nancy ahead to leap frog across.

We were pretty much on our own for this loop. Maybe one other couple took this route.

There was one area at the end where they had posts to hang hammocks to save the trees but promote the trend. We saw one person reading a book and enjoying the peace. I need to take advantage of my backyard hammock, this was a perfect reminder.

Heading down to the backside of the trail. Not for the elderly.

This dog knew just how to cool off and laid flat in the stream.

We decided to take a longer route back and discovered a small lake, gazebo and wooden walkway. We sat there for a bit and others took our cue and did the same. Nancy soaked her feet in the water and we watched the Canadian geese go by.