First Hike of 2010

We went on our first hike of 2010 this past Sunday. We took a little trip to Cascade Falls near Virginia Tech. It was a lovely day! A little on the warm side, actually! Plenty of people had the same idea we did about getting out and enjoying nature. There were lots of people on the trails.

There are two trails to reach the Cascades. The lower trail is considered the more scenic route, and the upper trail is more of an uphill challenge. Since we are trying to build some endurance and strength to hike Dragon's Tooth and Tinker Cliffs later in the year, we decided to take the uphill challenge to the falls, and then the scenic route on the way back. Even though this is a shorter hike, about four miles round-trip, it still gave me a workout. I worked my thighs on the way up, and my calves on the way down. I am currently looking for some good hiking boots. I think those should help!

It was hard for me to capture great pictures with all the trees, shade and light. Hiking trails will have to be added to my list of "things to learn how to photograph."

Of course we were starving by the end of our hike, so we decided to stop at The Cracker Barrel on the way home. I had pecan pancakes, and Mr. Price went for the trout and green beans.




A Camelbak is a necessary hiking accessory. It makes drinking water absolutely effortless.


Can you find the animal in the picture below?