I would walk 6 miles the next afternoon; I averaged about 20 minutes per mile with few rests to take pictures. About a mile in, one will come into a canyon before making an elevated climb up the other side of the hill."I wish I knew where I was going. Doomed to be carried of the spirit into the wilderness,' I suppose. I wish I could be more moderate in my desires, but I cannot, and so there is no rest."
Most of the walk would be a leisurely saunter.
I would see no fresh human tracks that day. The only new imprints I would encounter would be made by deer and wildcat.
"But in every walk with Nature one receives far more than he seeks."
A very nice place for lunch.
By this time, wind gusts of up to 40 mph would whip through the trees; this grove would provide a nice temporary cover.
In my day pack, I brought two ham sandwiches, chips, and a chocolate bar for dessert. I would also bring the usual trail fare - a hydration pack, jerky, dried fruit, and mixed nuts.
"We find in the fields of Nature no place that is blank or barren; every spot on land or sea is covered with harvests, and these harvests are always ripe and ready to be gathered and no toiler is ever underpaid."
Trail One is used for hikers and horses. It is wider and frequently traveled during better weather.
Trail Three, pictured above, is a bit overgrown and rougher. It would be my favorite of the two.
"The forests of America, however slighted by man, must have been a great delight to God; for they were the best He ever planted."
I know of no other way to better spend an evening - weary legs, a peaceful mind, being comforted by the fire and looking back on the day's events.
"Around your camp fire the flowers seem to be looking eagerly at the light, and the crystals shine unweariedly, making fine company as you lie at rest in the very heart of the vast, serene, majestic night."
