Back on January 25, Sarah and I hiked the Shades of Death trail at Hickory Run State Park. It’s hard to believe it was that long ago; I’ve really fallen behind here.

We used snowshoes, but in this case we could have gone without. There was snow, but it wasn’t very deep, and there were a few narrow sections where the snowshoes actually made it harder. On the other hand, the added traction from the crampons was much appreciated during some icy parts.

This was a truly beautiful hike — the trail followed a stream, which was frozen over in some parts, and passed some impressive rock formations and waterfalls. It started snowing on our way back.

We may have turned around too early: we thought the trail ended when we reached a blocked-off bridge. But looking at the map again, I think the trail may have continued past the bridge. We probably could have found a way around. Oh well.

Sand Spring Run

Ice

Waterfall, with some weird blue ice at the base

Rob, enjoying himself

Small waterfall – the woods were green with massive quantities of rhododendron

The trail goes through a crevice in the rock

Sarah

A layer of ice, suspended above the creek

Snowy rocks and creek

Me — dig the new glasses?

The creek again

Looking down from above the waterfall

The creek, lined with pines

File under: Hiking, Ice, Snow, Snowshoeing