Shades of Death
Saturday, February 7th, 2009Back 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.
Waterfall, with some weird blue ice at the base
Small waterfall – the woods were green with massive quantities of rhododendron
The trail goes through a crevice in the rock
A layer of ice, suspended above the creek
Looking down from above the waterfall
February 8th, 2009 at 1:13 am
I dig the new glasses! You look great!
February 8th, 2009 at 10:26 am
Go Rob!!
February 8th, 2009 at 10:39 am
I’m diggin the new glasses…..and that reminds me. I got in to see my Ophthalmologist for an update on my prescription last October just before my accident. I never did go and ge new glasses ordered.
Gotta do that. Looks like a wonderful hike.
February 8th, 2009 at 11:30 am
The post title led me to expect that you were seriously ill or something. Nice that it was a bunch of pretty pictures instead – looks like a beautiful hike!
February 9th, 2009 at 7:28 pm
Looks like a nice hike on a rather morbidly-named trail! Love the pic of Rob, btw.