A Milestone At West Branch

It was at West Branch State Park, which has two large loops.  This is good for avoiding folks during the pandemic.  I'll do a full review of the trail later, but it was a lovely one.

The first six or so miles followed closely to the reservoir, which was beautiful.  This will sound weird, but I actually had a dream the previous week about hiking a longer trail.  I hadn't planned to, I was going to stick to my normal 10 mile weekend one.  But on Saturday morning, as I was driving to my normal loop, I went to put on the directions from All Trails and this one - literally across the street from the one I normally do - popped up.  It said 11 miles and I figured, "PERFECT."  Of COURSE with All Trails, I should of figured it would be longer.

Lucy and I even set up the camp stove for lunch at the turn around point.  I wish I could say I sat there, looking out over the water, thinking deep thoughts, but truthfully I just pet Lulu, ate some food, and listened to my book on tape.

I didn't see anyone on the first leg, but I did on the second - two rabbit hunters running their dogs, who were in the wild life portion.  The dogs eventually found us on the trail but were VERY nice.  The second gentleman I encountered was also very nice - and carrying a pistol - which was a little unnerving.  

I walked through the pines.
I walked through the trail that meandered up a creek bed.
I saw the view of the water and trees across the way.
I saw fields.
I saw many a fallen tree.
I saw the old rock wall in the quarry.
I heard the haunting sound of baying hounds as the wind carried it to me.

It was amazing.

I did it.

I didn't have anxiety about it.

And truthfully, while I was tired and ready for a real break, I wasn't exhausted.  I even went out the next day for another hike on Easter.

My back held up.

Lucy held up.

We did it.  It's taken a long time to get there, but we did it.

Even in dark times, there are spots of light. 

What adventure did you get in to this weekend? Comment below or feel free to email me here!