We met at the Visitor’s Center and took Hires Trail through the woods, carrying a special leaf from the parking lot up to its place of honor in the crook of a tree at the ‘top of the mountain.’

We stopped along the way to try out our yoga tree pose, move logs off the trail, peer inside woodpecker holes and to enjoy some snacks, of course. A turkey vulture called and circled overhead as we rested at the overlook, then we explored the Forest Camp playground of forts, campfires, kitchen utensils and hanging sparkly ornaments. The spring weather brought clouds but 60 degree temps, and the wind picked up at the end, signaling the coming rainstorm.

Participants for our hour-and-a-half long journey: Karen, Jim, Nathan and Aiden; and Aaron, Michelle (trip leaders) and Brendan.