Tag: Best State Park Page 3 of 4

So after a bit of a delay and some crazy weather in Oxford, Alabama (a story for another time) – I was back on track to explore new parks and climb more mountains!

DeSoto State Park is off of I-59 between Birmingham, AL, and Chattanooga, TN, and is very close to the Georgia border. It is located in Ft. Payne, AL – which ironically made me think of the Damon Wayans movie – Major Payne. “What are you laughing at, pig-boy? You find a piece of candy in your pocket?” I digress again…

About the Park and some fun facts!

Desoto State Park is nestled atop beautiful Lookout Mountain in scenic Northeast Alabama and is the home of many rushing waterfalls and fragrant wildflowers that will simply take your breath away. (the park’s website words, not mine). The park is split into two parts – DeSoto State Park and DeSoto Falls – both linked by the West Fork of the Little River – but DeSoto Falls is 6 miles north of the main park. DeSoto State Park has plenty to do: kayaking, fishing, swimming, 25 miles of hiking trails, 11 miles of mountain bike trails, rappelling, bouldering, picnicking, and camping.

The park, which bears the name of 16th-century explorer Hernando de Soto, was developed in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) and known as State Park No. 5. When it was dedicated as Desoto State Park on May 24, 1939, it was the largest state park in Alabama. The park’s museum celebrating the CCC’s work in Alabama state parks opened in 2013. Fun Fact: Hernando de Soto was the first European documented as having crossed the Mississippi River. More Jeopardy! trivia for you!

Pictures: Main Park Trail Map | DeSoto Falls Trail Map

DeSoto Waterfall – 3 different views!

I should note first about this post – I try to take copious notes when hiking and visiting parks as I know that I may not post about it for several days or in this case several months. However, the notes for this visit somehow disappeared into the digital universe. So it is forcing me to jog my memory a bit and actually exercise my brain! Not the worst thing to happen, but I may not get every detail correct.

I decided to check out DeSoto Falls first as it was a beautiful day. To get there from DeSoto State Park from the Country Store in the main park, head north to Alabama-89 and turn left. The road will veer right at Wade Gap (but it’s still Alabama-89). Continue until you reach Tutwiler Gap and Alabama-163, turn right here. You know you are in the right place if you see a colorful directional sign on a tree. Alabama-163 will eventually turn into DeSoto Falls Road and dead end into the Picnic Area parking lot (which has a fee of $4 per vehicle – but see my note later in this post). As you are driving toward the Picnic Area, you will see a small gravel parking lot on the right hand side – this is the parking lot for the River and Overlook Trailheads. I started my visit.

*Picture:* Directional Sign at Titwiler Gap

From this spot – you can reach two of the views of DeSoto Falls. I decided to go to the Basin first and thus took the River Trail. The trailhead is to the right and closer to the road. River Trail is 0.7-miles one-way (Note: I did a combination of trails though – but it still was a total of 0.7-miles one-way). The initial part of the River Trail is down hill slightly and a bit rocky, yet easy to navigate. On this trail you’ll pass several large boulders which are so common to the area. Shortly into the hike, I saw the turnoff for Bluff Trail (0.32-miles in distance) and decided to take it. At this point, I think I was winging it a bit, but I wasn’t too worried as the area isn’t so big that you could get lost. Bluff Trail was a bit steep and continued to be rocky, but nothing too challenging. You’ll pass a cave, and more boulders. Eventually it connects back with the River Trail – where it’s a flat hike out to the Basin.

Pictures: The upper River Trail

Pictures: The Bluff Trail turnoff | The Bluff Trail

Pictures: Along the lower River Trail

When you get to the Basin, you’ll see why you hiked down as you’re rewarded with a massive pool and a spectacular view of the 104-foot waterfall. It was hot enough that if I had the right clothes, I would have taken a dip. Side note: Much of the park information is inconsistent – I have seen park info noting that the falls are anywhere from 5.5 miles to 7 miles north of the park and that the falls are 104 feet and then 107 feet high. Personally, I think they need to hire a proofreader!

Pictures: DeSoto Fals

After taking in the view, I headed back up the hill to the Overlook Trail and view #2. As you hike up, you’ll pass a bench in case you need to rest a bit – I pushed on. It took me about 40 minutes out and back to do the 1.4 miles – using both The River and Bluff Trails. You connect to the Overlook Trail near the trailhead.

Pictures: Bench | Along the Bluff Trail

The Overlook Trail is pretty flat and an easy 0.9 miles out and back. The beginning of the trail parallels the River and Bluff Trails – giving you a view of the trails below. The Bluff Trail also has a bench rest and take in the scenery. Eventually, you are rewarded with view #2 of DeSoto Falls – although you are a bit further away from the falls than from the basin. Also, as it was the middle of summer, the trees were full and blocked some of the views. Personally, I preferred the view from the Basin – not only were you closer, but it gave you a better appreciation of how high the falls are.

Pictures: Looking down on the trails below from the Overlook Trail

Pictures: The Bluff Trail

Pictures: DeSoto Falls from the Overlook

With two views of the falls down, I decided to head back to the main park and check into my campsite. I chose the Wall Tent Campsite – it’s still rustic and in the Primitive Campground, but it saved me the time of setting up and breaking down my own tent. It was also on a raised platform, keeping me dry – although it hadn’t rained, nor was rain in the forecast. I got settled into camp and then decided to hike a bit more as I still had a few more hours of sunlight.

Pictures: The Primitive Campground Entrance | The Wall Tent Site – courtesy of the Boy Scouts

Falls without Falls

For the afternoon hike, I decided to go on the Orange, Blue, and Red Trails for a total distance of about 4 miles on just the trails. My campsite was just a short distance to the road, so I decided to hike to the Lost Falls (Orange) trailhead instead of driving. I walked out to the main road, then down the road for about a half-mile to the trailhead – adding another 1-mile to my afternoon hike. There is a restroom at this trailhead, which is always a good stop before you start a hike. After my brief pit stop, I was off on the Orange Trail – which for the most part well marked but not too exciting – but I did see an interesting looking mushroom. I soon connected with the Blue Trail as I wanted to see some of the other waterfalls. As a note: for the most part the Orange and Blue Trails run parallel to each other – they are just separated by Laurel Creek.

Pictures: The Orange Trail | Cool looking Mushroom

Pictures: Hiking along the Blue Trail

The first falls to find – Lost Falls. Well, it was certainly lost or maybe it was me, because I passed it and had to double back to check it out – but in my defense, none of the falls are marked well! Sad to say, the creek was pretty dry and Lost Falls was a trickle. The highlight – seeing another cool mushroom!

Pictures: Along the Blue Trail with a cool greenish mushroom

I pressed on towards Laurel Falls. Another note: The trail was a bit overgrown here and I kept wondering if anything was hiding in the grass and going to bite me as I wasn’t hiking with poles. Happy to say, I finished unscathed – no snake bites.

Once I connected to the road, I hiked uphill a little and then connected to the Red Trail. The Red Trail is an interesting trail – it not only is one of North Alabama’s Birding Trails and home to many of North Alabama bird species, such as Belted Kingfishers, as well as migratory birds that winter in Central and South America, Warblers, and Thrushes – but it is also a raised, boardwalk trail, allowing access to those who are physically challenged. I was happy to see it as I am very supportive of making outdoor experiences all-inclusive.

Pictures: Birding Trail | Birds of North Alabama

Pictures: The Boardwalk Trail

Pictures: Along the Boardwalk Trail

I soon connected back to the Orange Trail and made my way back to the trailhead, then to camp. As I was getting settled into my camp for the night, a ranger stopped by to check in and make sure I had a reservation and that I didn’t need anything. I really think he was seeing if I had any contraband – i.e. alcohol. After a short conversation, off he went. I made a fire, watched the fireflies, and enjoyed the peace and quiet.

Day 2 at DeSoto

Although I probably could have seen everything in one day, I was happy to stay in the park. I was up early the next morning – had a quick breakfast and then headed out for my planned hikes. First up – Indian Falls, which is near the Boardwalk Trailhead from yesterday. It’s a quick hike from the parking lot to the falls, but to no surprise, it was dry – so a bit disappointing. So a quick visit and off to the next hike.

Pictures: Indian Falls Area

Pictures: Indian Falls

I drove down to the Lodge, where I parked, and hiked a portion of the Yellow and the Green Trails to see Lodge Falls and the West Fork of the Little River. The Little River was nice, but the falls were a disappointment due to the lack of water.

Pictures: West Fork of the Little River

DeSoto Falls – View #3

I got back in the car and went back north to DeSoto Falls and this time the Picnic Area. And as I mentioned earlier, there is a $4 per vehicle fee, but as I camped in the park, I received a parking pass for here. In all honesty, I wouldn’t pay to park here if it were not included with my camping. I think the other views of the falls are much better. You can walk out to the area above the falls – and then out to an area that will give you a side view of the falls. As I was walking out to the observation area for view #3, I met a really nice couple. They are wild mushroom foragers and actually found wild chanterelles and made eggs with chanterelles for breakfast! I also played ranger and gave them the lay of the land on the falls and hikes they could take.

Pictures: The Upper Falls Area

Pictures: View #3 – from the side | A Look at the Basin from Above

*Picture:* View of the Upper Falls Area and of the DeSoto Falls

To the left of the dam and the falls is a boat launch. I saw several kayakers and paddle boarders on this portion of the river as you can go upstream a bit. There is also a sandy beach area to hang out and enjoy the sun.

Pictures: West Fork of the Little River | Sandy Beach Area

One of the more interesting parts of this area of the park are the steps down to the observation area. In 2018, DSP Naturalist Brittney Hughes conceived the idea of installing an ambitious public art project at DeSoto Falls—transforming the plain cement stairs leading to the viewing platform into a mosaic work of art. On each of the 43 ‘risers’ is a mosaic of colorful stained glass pieces – each riser is a separate piece of art but seen collectively they create a design that is pleasing to the eye. Brittney’s design features the West Fork of Little River flowing down the length of the steps, and a famous John Muir quote in the middle of the design: “Everybody needs beauty as well as bread, places to play in and pray in, where nature may heal and give strength to body and soul”~ John Muir.

Pictures: The Public Art Project and the Mosaic Risers

With DeSoto State Park checked off my list, I headed towards Georgia and Cloud Canyon State Park!

Dates of Visit: 17 & 18 August 2023

Tishomingo State Park | Mississippi

By Stephen

On November 26, 2023

In blog | adventure | travel | best state parks list

A little park history…

Located in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Tishomingo State Park is steeped in history and scenic beauty. Archaeological excavations confirm the presence of Paleo Indians in the area now encompassed by the park as early as 7000 B.C.! The park takes its name from the leader of the Chickasaw nation, Chief Tishomingo. Today’s visitors to Tishomingo State Park discover the same timeless natural beauty that enchanted the Indians centuries ago. Tishomingo offers a unique landscape of massive rock formations and fern-filled crevices found nowhere else in Mississippi. Massive boulders blanketed in moss dot the hillsides, and colorful wildflowers border trails once walked by Native Americans.

Getting there…

The park is located 20-minutes south of Woodall Mountain – the highest natural point in Mississippi – which I blogged about recently. Here’s a link to that post Woodall Mountain Post. To get here, I drove on a portion of the famous Natchez Trace Parkway, the premier highway of the early 1800s and a modern scenic parkway, which runs directly through the park. I have more information on the Natchez Trace in my Woodall Mountain post.

Once you exit the Natchez Trace Parkway, you’ll get on State Park Road (Mississippi-90), then you’ll pass a park sign and then eventually a larger park monument sign, before you get to the entrance. The entrance fee is $2.00 per person, so pretty inexpensive as parks go. But free is best in my opinion.

Pictures: Park sign on Mississippi-90 | State Park Road/Mississippi-90 | Larger park monument sign

First Stop – The Office

It should come to no surprise for anyone who has followed this blog, my first stop was the office to chat with rangers about the park, to get a lay of the land, to find out which hikes were must-do’s and to find out what wildlife I should be aware of – Bears? Snakes? Big Foot? As it stands, I did see a bear near the office when I was about to start my first hike!

Pictures: My bear sighting! | Map of Tishomingo State Park Trails

I’m in for a hot, humid and buggy day!

The ranger recommended I start out with the Flat Rock Trail, which was right by the office. There is a small parking lot on the right of the entrance – where I parked. This trail is a 3-mile loop, but I opted shorten it at the suggestion of the ranger and just go to the campground and turn around – a 1.6-mile out and back hike. The trail starts out crossing a creek – which has a small wooden bridge. You’ll also see that State Park Road (the road you enter into the park) also has a bridge over the creek. The ranger suggested I go up and under the bridge, which I did – it was pretty cool!

Pictures: State Park Road Bridge | The start of the Flat Rock Trail | The Trailhead Area

The first half of the hike was the best part as you go by some really cool rock formations and boulders, and through some neat passageways. I can only imagine back in the day – would these passageways be safe or would I be easy prey for the Chickasaw? The rest of the trail is nice and you’re basically hiking through the woods. There are a couple of areas that are up and down, but nothing too difficult. The trail was 99% dry and there were a few bugs out, but the day was just starting and it was getting quite humid and hot. I found the trail well marked and outside of a couple of trees down, it was pretty clear and easy to navigate.

Pictures: Rock formations and boulders at the beginning of the hike

Pictures: One of the rock passageways | Rock formation

Pictures: One of the down trees | My turnaround point for the Flat Rock Trail. The trail comes in from the upper right corner of the picture.

Once back at the office, I drove further into the park and stopped by the Pioneer Cabin and Well House for a quick visit.

Pictures: Pioneer Cabin | Well House

Pictures: From the area near the Pioneer Cabin

I would have been part of the CCC…

I then drove down and parked near the park’s famous Swinging Bridge. It was constructed in 1939 by the Civilian Conservation Corps. The CCC was a voluntary government work relief program that ran from 1933 to 1942 in the United States for unemployed, unmarried men ages 18–25 who had difficulty finding jobs during the Great Depression in the United States. The program was a major part of President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal that supplied manual labor jobs related to the conservation and development of natural resources in rural lands owned by federal, state, and local governments. If I had lived back then, I probably would have been part of the CCC. After all, I have the right physique as I think my abs look like the one in the statue! lol.

Pictures: Statue and plaque commemorating the Civilian Conservation Corps Worker

Five Person Limit

Back to the Swinging Bridge which has a sign noting a “5 person limit.” Somehow, I think this rule has been violated a bit in the past – just saying. Since it was a quiet day, I was the only person on the bridge – and even with me on it solo – it did swing a bit. I can only imagine how much it moves when 5 people are on the bridge! The bridge spans Bear Creek – which was quite muddy and flowing at a good pace due to the recent rain. After you cross the creek, you’ll connect with the Outcroppings Trail – my next hike.

Pictures: The Swinging Bridge and 5-Person Limit Sign

Pictures: Swinging Bridge | Muddy Bear Creek

*Picture:* Outcroppings Trail side of the Swinging Bridge

Rare Salamanders and Scorpions?

I decided to take the trail to the right and follow along Bear Creek. You meander along the river for 9/10 of a mile. It is an easy hike with some small ravines, lots of rocks and a small brook. At one point I came across really cool tree that over time grew at a bent angle. I love how mother nature and trees adapt to their surroundings and sometimes they don’t just grow up as straight trees – rebels that buck the system. As I hiked, I kept an eye out for two rare species of creatures that are found predominately in the park and Tishomingo County – Vaejovis carolinianus, commonly called the Southern Devil Scorpion or unstripped scorpion – and the state endangered Green Salamander (Aneides aeneus). The ranger at the office gave me the heads up about these creatures – yet another reason to stop by the office or visitor center.

Interestingly, at least to me, while scorpions frequently live in hot and dry areas, there are at least two scorpion species are at home in Mississippi’s often cold and wet climate – Vaejovis carolinianus, which I noted above and found only in northeast Mississippi where I am; and Centruroidis vittatus, known as the striped scorpion, found sporadically in central and southern parts of the state. Unfortunately, I didn’t come across any, I think you have to really search for them, in essence stop and pull up rocks to find such creatures. But I did see a frog! And according to Google Lens – I think it is a Pickerel Frog.

Pictures: Outcroppings Trail along muddy Bear Creek | Cool Bent Tree on the Trail

Magic Mushrooms?

I came across some cool mushrooms – one of my fascinations in nature – and this pool of water that had an iridescent hue to it. And no, I didn’t eat the mushrooms before I saw the water – so I wasn’t tripping out and hallucinating from eating the “magic mushrooms.”

Pictures: Mushrooms | Iridescent pool of water

The trail soon goes up and away from the creek. Personally, I think this is where the trail gets more interesting. You get a nice view of the valley below and will come across some neat boulders, rock formations and caves – I’m guessing at this point you’re learning about my fascination with rocks and boulders as well. I later found out that the Chickasaw Indians actually lived in these caves when they inhabited the area. I did see any in the caves, but I did see one on the roadside as I drove through the park.

Pictures: Boulders and rocks on the upper portion of the trail

Pictures: Caves and overhangs where the Chickasaw lived

*Picture:* The one Chickasaw Indian I saw by the roadside

Pictures: More rock formations | Looking down from the rocks above

A Full Day of Hiking

The trail loops back the Swinging Bridge – where I was parked. I got back into my car and was off for my next hike – the CCC Camp Trail. I drove back up to the Pioneer Cabin, and parked across the street, near the picnic area. I should note that I later realized I could have just kept my car at the Swinging Bridge as you’ll see as you read on, but I ended up being happy that I drove to this parking spot. It helped break up the day for me, it gave me an opportunity to have some water, a quick snack and to be in the comfort of my car’s air-conditioning, and it gave me time to figure out where the CCC Camp Trail started. This trail is a 3-mile loop that starts out generally flat, then drops down to the Swinging Bridge, then goes along Bear Creak and finally back uphill to the parking lot.

As I sat across the street and looked at the Pioneer House, I scanned the roadside and to far left of the Pioneer House, was a set of stairs – this is the CCC Camp Trailhead. So up the stairs I went on my last excursion in the park. Soon after you ascend the stairs, you’ll pass some more rock formations and boulders that are heavily covered in moss due to the shade.

Pictures: Moss covered rocks | CCC Camp Trail

Is that a UFO?

The trail follows the road for a bit – not my favorite – but you’re up high enough above the road and luckily there were only very few cars – so not alot of street noise. Otherwise it would have reminded me of Lincolnwood State Park in Rhode Island – which was not a favorite hike. You’ll eventually head down the hill, past the Swinging Bridge and through a parking lot. At the far end of the parking lot, the trail resumes and it’s at this point that you hike parallel to a Disc Golf Course – so keep a keep eye out for flying discs!

Pictures: The Disc Golf Course

Shortly after you pass the course, you’ll cross a bridge and then the trail got a bit dicey as there were alot of trees down in this section of the park. It wasn’t difficult to follow the trail, you just had to take a few detours around the downed trees. Before you head back up the hill, there is a directional sign – one of the few signs I saw on the trails. So up the hill I went to the Pioneer Cabin, past some more downed trees and back to the car.

Pictures: Bridge | Downed Trees | Directional Sign

On the way out of the park, I stopped by the glamping tent sites, courtesy of TENTRR. I have yet to stay at a TENTRR campsite, but do have the app on my phone. Tishomingo State Park is an interesting park with some cool rock formations and history. I’d definitely recommend a visit if you’re in the area, but it’s definitely not a destination state park like Ricketts Glen State Park. At least in my opinion.

*Picture:* Glamping site courtesy of TENTRR

Date of Visit: 13 August 2023

Franconia Notch State Park | New Hampshire

By Stephen

On November 21, 2023

In blog | adventure | travel | best state parks list

Franconia Notch State Park is located in the heart of the White Mountain National Forest and about 1 hour north of the state capital, Concord, NH. Franconia Notch is a spectacular mountain pass traversed by a unique parkway which extends from the Flume Gorge at the south to Echo Lake at the north. For eight miles, I-93 winds between the high peaks of the Kinsman and Franconia mountain ranges. The park offers a wide range of activities from swimming at Echo Lake to trout fishing at Profile Lake, to riding a bike on the Recreational Trail, to hiking the Appalachian Trail, to camping, and to riding the aerial tramway at Cannon Mountain.

*Picture:* Map of the different areas of the park along I-93

A tale of two cities….

I decided to start my adventure visiting the famous Flume Gorge. Oh boy – where do I begin?! For starters there is a fee to visit this area – $18.00, plus a processing fee of $1.00! I understand the need to support parks, but I also have a disdain for high park fees, which limit park accessibility to those less fortunate and in my opinion these parks in essence become elitist. You also have to select a date and time for entry. This limits the number of people who are in the area at one time. Anyway, I paid my money and went in, your welcome State of New Hampshire. What I didn’t expect, were the amount of “city folk” in this section of the park, who honestly had a high disregard for the environment around them. More to come on this front.

*Picture:* Check-In Entrance, and note the sign “about only leaving your footprints”Take Only Photos…”

The trail is a relatively easy 2-mile loop (one-way), with some inclines and stairs, but nothing too difficult. It is a well maintained trail (which I would expect for $19!). So, the first major site is the Great Boulder – it’s a big rock, but there is some history with it.

Pictures: History about the Glacial Boulders | The Great Boulder

Soon after the Great Boulder, the trail begins the one-way direction to the right. Shortly after this turn you’ll see one of the famous covered bridges that New Hampshire is known for, spanning the Pemigewasset River. (Say that 5-times fast!)

Pictures: Covered Bridge | Pemigewasset River

Next up, Table Rock. This is a super cool flat rock that would be awesome to ride down, only if you could!

Pictures: Table Rock

You’re not a model….

Next up the famous Flume Gorge – which I will admit was pretty cool. It was formed nearly 200 million years ago during the Jurassic Period and was discovered in 1808 by 93-year-old “Aunt” Jess Guernsey when she accidently came upon it while fishing. Pretty cool, but enter in the city folk – if I go to one more park and get behind girls who think they are one of the Jenners and decide it’s time for an Instagram photoshoot, I may go postal. And you know the pose they do – they look at the gorge and turn their head back to the camera as if they are a super model. News flash – nobody cares and you’re not!

Pictures: Flume Gorge (sans super models)

As you exit the narrow portion of the gorge, you come up Avalanche Falls. I did take an opportunity to take a selfie – but rest assured, no one waited as I took my picture. (And yes I do look like a super model – lol)

Pictures: Avalanche Falls | My quick selfie

Some cool parts of the “city” (Tale of Two Cities)…

As you continue on the loop, you’ll come across Bear Cave, then cross the Pemigewasset River again.

Pictures: Bear Cave | Pemigewasset River

It was around this point, where I came across the next group of “city folk” – it looked like a couple of families – who were loud, obnoxious and their kids were running everywhere. In reality, I can get past all of this, but there is more to come . . .

I took the short detour to Liberty Gorge – where you can see the gorge and the Pool. The pool is surrounded by 80-foot cliffs, is 150-feet in diameter and 40-feet deep. I bet it would be a great place to swim on a hot summers day!

Pictures: Liberty Gorge | The Pool

As the trail winds around the pool, you cross a covered foot bridge. I waited for the city folk to clear the bridge, which seemed like an eternity.

Pictures: Covered Foot Bridge

Please go back to the city…

The Wolf’s Den was next, which I don’t have pictures of, thanks in part to the city folk. One of the fathers – Mr. Macho in his white tank top and knee-length jean shorts, decided to crawl up through the crack in the rocks – ignoring signs about the fragile eco-system in the area. Way to set a good example for your kids, dude. His wife was half terrified and half amused. Me – I was just thinking – go back to the city.

As you finish the loop, there is view point where you can see Mount Liberty, Mount Flume and Mount Osseo. Then you’ll come across more glacial rocks. I loved the tree growing around one of the rocks.

Pictures: Mount Liberty, Mount Flume and Mount Osseo | Glacial Rocks

I finished up this hike in the visitor center, ate a little snack and headed to the Lonesome Lake Trail.

Lonesome Lake Trail

I drove to the trailhead, which is near the Lafayette Place Campground and has a parking lot. I enjoyed my hike along the Lonesome Lake Trail, but again, ran into some city folk. The trail is 3-miles up, around the lake and back. It has a pretty good elevation change of 1,030 feet, so be prepared for a good cardio workout at the beginning. As you start your hike, you cross the Pemigewasset River, yet again, but at this point it is a much smaller river. You then hike up through the campground, then being the ascent up the hill to Lonesome Lake (cardio workout portion). On your ascent, you will come across some streams that feed into the Pemigewasset River.

Pictures: Pemigewasset River | Stream feeding into the Pemigewasset River

As I hiked to the lake, I was a bit worried as I had read on the park website and there were also signs posted about a portion of the trail being closed around the lake due to flooding. But as I passed other hikers, I asked them where they had been and if any portion of the trail had been closed. I was happy to learn that there were no trail closures. Lonesome Lake is a beautiful lake and away from the noise of I-93, which was nice.

Pictures: Lonesome Lake | Another Selfie

Enter in the City Folk…

The area around the lake is swampy, and for the most part this is not an issue as there are raised “walkways” in the wetter areas. This is generally not an issue and easy to navigate, that is unless you have to pass someone. Hopefully they are polite and wait if you are already on the walkway, but with city folk, that wasn’t always the case. I had more than one standoff on the walkways, but found a way to allow them to pass.

Around the backside of the lake is a camp, and an area that is easy to access the lake and swim. There was a group of girls swimming and they looked like they were having fun. If I were better prepared, I probably would have gone swimming as well.

Pictures: Raised Walkway | Swimming Area

As I rounded the lake, near the area which I thought was closed, I ran into my next group of city folk. It was a group of younger adults with a dog – which I have no issue with – however their dog was a bit aggressive and not on a leash. Don’t get me wrong, I love taking my dog on a hike sans-leash, but when I would come upon other hikers, I would put her on a leash. It’s about being courteous to others – in my opinion. I was able to maneuver around the dog as they yelled at it to behave itself.

At this point, I headed back down the hill. On my way through the campground I did pass the bathroom and shower area. I decided to check it out and it was a pretty nice facility. Good to know if I am in the area again and want to camp.

Franconia Notch State Park, despite all the city folk, was a really nice park. Next time, I’d probably explore some of the less traveled trails – those with significant elevation changes and with more distance. (map below) And for those who haven’t visited yet, you need to determine if the steep fee for Flume Gorge is worth it.

Date of Visit: 14 July 2023

*Picture:* Map showing all the other trails

Lincoln Woods State Park | Rhode Island

By Stephen

On November 20, 2023

In blog | adventure | travel | best state parks list

Lincoln Woods State Park is about a 15 minutes north of Providence, Rhode Island, and I would definitely classify it as an Everyday or People’s or City Folk Park (for more details on my classification – see my post on Starved Rock State Park). It is a popular getaway for northeastern Rhode Islanders and happens to be Rhode Island’s first state park.

About the Park (from their website)

Lincoln Woods State Reservation started officially on Abraham Lincoln’s birthday, February 12, 1909. Named after the 16th President of the United States, Lincoln Woods was acquired by purchase, gift, and condemnation of farmland and woodlots of the Olney, Arnold, Comstock, and Mitchell families of the Salyersville, Lonsdale, and Quinsnicket areas of Lincoln. Over the years since, Lincoln Woods has grown to 627 acres, which now rim the pond and include playing fields to the south. The facilities have grown and improved to include changing rooms for the swimmers, a snack bar, nature barn, and park administrative and maintenance facilities. With bridle and hiking trails throughout, the basic feature besides Olney Pond which also caters to fishing and boating including swimming, is a circumferential road favored by walkers and bicycle riders. In 1977, the swimming area was dedicated as the Frank Moody State Beach.

My Visit

At the Breakneck Hill entrance, a covered bridge greets parkgoers as they enter the park to enjoy swimming at the freshwater beach, trout fishing, playing ball, hiking, jogging, horseback riding, or just relaxing under a shade tree. There is no entrance fee for the park (if you have read any of my other posts, you know that I am supportive of no fee parks), but permits are required for picnic areas and fields.

I went on a Saturday in the summer and it was hot, humid and buggy. Definitely not my idea of a great park day – just saying. I hiked a combination of the Les Pawson Trail, which goes around Olney Pond, and the Lincoln Woods Trail which goes around the northern portion of the park, where many of the picnic areas and ball fields are located. In total I hiked 5.5 miles – parts of the trails were paved and other parts dirt – and as I mentioned in my All Trails review – the trails are poorly marked. With that said, it’s not as if you are really going to get lost very easily and we need to call out search and rescue.

First stop – Frank Moody State Beach

I parked near Olney Pond and Frank Moody State Beach was my first stop. It’s not the biggest beach and although somewhat crowded, there was still some open space on the beach. The beach was full of families, kids running around and lots of music playing. The beach area has a large concession stand, bath house, kayak rentals and a nature center. The nature center houses a myriad of live and taxidermized animals that represent the various species found in Lincoln Woods and across Rhode Island. I actually went in the nature center – as I always do – to learn more about the park and what to see. I think two young adults who worked there were thrilled to have someone walk in as they looked so bored. I also think they drew the short straw on assignments and would have probably been outside working. Honestly, I don’t think most of the people who go there, even care about the natural surroundings and what they may find in the park. The concession stand was a surprise as to the variety of food they offered. I didn’t try anything, but it looked good.

Pictures: Entrance to the Beach and Kayak Rental area

Pictures: Concession Stand

Pictures: Beach Area

*Picture:* View of the Beach Area as I continued around the pond

Why is this an Everyday or People’s or City Folk Park?

So as I continued around the pond – the trail parallels the road and as it was a Saturday – it was crowded with cars and many blaring loud music. So don’t go here if you’re looking for solitude or some peace and quiet. And if you are hiking or walking on the trails or walkways – be prepared for oblivious people and let’s say kid’s that are not the most behaved.

Eventually I connected to the Lincoln Woods Trail, and got away from the crowds for a brief moment. That is until I walked near the ball fields or large picnic areas – many of these areas were filled with large parties, and you guessed it more loud music. Don’t get me wrong, I love music and a good party, and I think this park is conducive to some great gatherings, but I do think there should be some limits on the music decibels.

Pictures: From my hike on Lincoln Woods Trail

As I looped south, I connected again with the Les Pawson Loop and Olney Pond where you get some nice views of the pond. I continued around the pond trying to take as many of the dirt spurs as I could to break it up walking on the paved road.

Pictures: Olney Pond

If I lived in the area, I could see going to Lincoln Woods State Park for a good run, perhaps a swim in the pond or a picnic with friends and family. However, I wouldn’t make a special trip (drive for hours) to visit the park. It’s an everyday or people’s or city folk park.

Date of Visit: 8 July 2023

Gillette Castle State Park | Connecticut

By Stephen

On October 29, 2023

In blog | adventure | travel | best state parks list

Gillette Castle State Park sits atop the most southernly hill in a chain known as the Seven Sisters and is located 1 hour E/NE of New Haven, Connecticut. The park spans 122-acres, offers hiking trails, picnic areas, river camping, beautiful views of the Connecticut River and tours of the Castle (which I didn’t do). The significance of Gillette Castle State Park lies in the history of the castle and that of the original owner, William Hooker Gillette, noted actor, director, and playwright. The focal point of his effort was a twenty four room mansion reminiscent of a medieval castle. In 1943 the the State of Connecticut purchased the property from the executors of Mr. Gillette’s will, Gillette Castle and the adjoining property with its fine woodlands, trails, and vistas are now administered for the enjoyment of present and future generations. This apparently would have pleased Gillette, since his will gave specific directions to see that the property did not fall into the hands “of some blithering saphead who has no conception of where he is or with what surrounded.” I guess his spirited demeanor is enough to warrant a visit. You can learn more about William Hooker Gillette and the Castle on the state website: Gillette Castle State Park

Pictures: The Entrance | Map of the Park

Pictures: The castle as you walk up from the parking lot.

Pictures: The Connecticut River side of the Castle | The Grand Central Station picnic area

Pictures: Views of the Connecticut River from the Castle Terrace

Nearby is the Chester–Hadlyme Ferry and I enjoyed the hike down to the Connecticut River.

Pictures: The Ferry | View along the Connecticut River

Outside on the grounds, Gillette’s influence is no less in evidence. The trails often follow, over trestle and through tunnel, the actor’s three mile long narrow gauge railroad. Gillette’s own walking paths were constructed with near-vertical steps, stone-arch bridges, and wooded trestles spanning up to forty feet.

Pictures: Both along the Red Trail | A bridge | A bench to stop and enjoy nature

My favorite Trail was the Purple or Train Trail on the east side of the park. There was this uber cool tunnel you had to hike through.

Overall, I’d categorize this park as your everyday park, it was nice to visit as I was in the area, but I don’t think I would make a special trip to go to the park.

Date of Visit: 6 July 2023

Starved Rock State Park | Illinois

By Stephen

On September 25, 2023

In blog | adventure | travel | best state parks list

As I continue to travel across the county visiting parks, I’ve come to the conclusion that there are two types of parks for me – destination parks that offer a great outdoors experience and everyday parks that would be great to visit frequently if I lived nearby. Both types of parks may have similar features such as waterfalls, lakes, miles of trails, and picnic areas, but the everyday parks tend to be busier, have more kids and definitely more “city folk.” For me – every day parks are good for trail running or a brisk hike to get my steps in or to take the dog. I’d classify Starved Rock State Park is an everyday park.

Located in Oglesby, Illinois – and about 90 miles or 1 hr. 30 minutes west to southwest of downtown Chicago – Starved Rock was voted the #1 Attraction in the State of Illinois and touts itself as a world apart from anything else in Illinois – with amazing, seasonal waterfalls (an important note as there are times during the year where many of the falls run dry); 13 miles of trails and 18 canyons to explore; and the Illinois River which offers fishing, boating, extraordinary views and great places to relax. The main parking lot gives you access to most of the park, however as go east, there are more parking lots making it easier to access some of the more “remote” canyons. As I pulled into the main parking lot, it became clear to me that this is a popular park – not only were there a ton of cars, but also 10 school buses. Keep in mind it was a Friday in May. I prepared myself for what I was about to encounter. Don’t get me wrong, I think it is great that the kids are getting out and “enjoying” nature, but not was I had prepared for. Oh well, we adapt.

Pictures: The Entrance | Trail Map

So how did the park get its name? It came from a Native American legend. In the 1760s, Chief Pontiac of the Ottawa tribe, was attending a tribal council meeting. At this council of the Illinois and the Pottawatomie, an Illinois-Peoria brave stabbed Chief Pontiac. Vengeance arose in Pontiac’s followers. A great battle started. The Illinois, fearing death, took refuge on the great rock. After many days, the remaining Illinois died of starvation giving this historic park its name – Starved Rock.

The trails in the park are well marked and easy to navigate – you’ll come across boardwalks, stairs, paved trails, and moderate elevation changes. The deeper you go into the park, the more natural the trails become and you may encounter mud and puddles as I did. My first stop and closest site to the parking lot, was the infamous Starved Rock, where you get some great views of the Illinois River.

Pictures: The Legend of Starved Rock | One of the boardwalk and stairs to Starved Rock

Pictures: Views from Starved Rock: Leopold Island No. 1 and The Dam

The path and boardwalk will take you parallel to the river where you will come upon Lover’s Leap Overlook and then the Eagle Cliff Overlook. Both of these overlooks offer similar views of the Illinois River and the Eagle Cliff Overlook gives you a closer look at The Dam.

Pictures: The Dam from Lover’s Leap | A closer view of the Dam | Looking East from Eagle Cliff

Now it off to the Canyons and Waterfalls. I started with Wildcat Canyon and Falls – one of the tallest falls in the park with an 80-foot drop. Unfortunately, it was full of school kids despite the trail map clearly saying, “Swimming and Wading Prohibited,” hence why I took a “waist up” picture of the falls and didn’t include the pool below. Don’t get me wrong, I am all for enjoying nature, but in this case, the park is worried about the long-term damage to the eco-system.

And as you continue through the park, you’ll also come across some amazing rock formations.

*Picture:* One of the many amazing rock formations.

Next up, one of my favorite canyons – LaSalle Canyon. The falls aren’t as high as Wildcat, standing 25′ high, but the canyon is beautiful and I love that you can walk behind the waterfalls. And typically there is water here year round. Tonty Canyon can also be accessed as you go hike up the trail to LaSalle Canyon, however it was closed the day I visited the park.

Pictures: LaSalle Canyon and Falls

I continued down the trail as far as the Hennepin Canyon Overlook where I was able to get a great view of the overlook from below it, by the river.

Hennepin was as far as I could hike due to a trail closure, so I double backed to Lone Tree Canyon, then took the stairs up to the canyon rim. It’s cool to walk along the canyon rims as you get a different perspective of the canyons and waterfalls.

Pictures: The hike up Lone Tree Canyon and Lone Tree Canyon

Pictures: Views of the Canyons and Waterfalls from above.

Overall my hike was 6.6 miles and took 2 hrs. 5 min. with stops. I took a break back at the parking lot, refueled with a couple of energy bars and fortified water, then head down river to the canyons I wasn’t able to reach due to the trail closure.

I parked at the lot between Illinois and Ottawa Canyons. This too was definitely an interesting hike – to start – I ran into a local, walking barefoot and for some reason had to tell me he was headed back home as he thought he left the oven on. Ok? Then a group of guys started hiking in front of me with a boom box (as I mentioned earlier “city folk”), so I went down a different trail. And at one of the waterfalls, I took a picture of a group of older ladies from Wisconsin. They traveled a bit and gave me a wealth of information and some great recommendations for hiking in Wisconsin, the U.P. (Michigan’s Upper Peninsula) and Minnesota.

On this hike, I headed towards Ottawa and Kaskaskia Canyons, where you will first pass under the Council Overhang – an uber cool rock formation!

Pictures: Council Overhang

I decided to go up to Kaskaskia Canyon first. This waterfall is pretty short with a 15-foot drop, but it was peaceful (the boom box guys took a different trail) and quite beautiful.

Ottawa Canyon Falls was next. This is one of the taller falls at 45′.

Pictures: Ottawa Canyon Falls

I headed back and this time there was no one at the Council Overhang. So I got more pictures and took a goofy picture – making it look like I was hanging from the overhang. (well sorta). Despite the crowds, I enjoyed my visit to Starved Rock State Park.

Pictures: Council Overhang | Me “Hanging” from the Overhang

Date of Visit: 19 May 2023

Bash Bish Falls State Park | Massachusetts

By Stephen

On September 1, 2023

In blog | adventure | travel | best state parks list

I have to be honest, after visiting Bash Bish Falls, I was somewhat disappointed. I guess up to this point I had been spoiled with some epic hikes and big parks with numerous activities, view points and sites. So fast forward – I have now visited 20 of the state parks on The Discoverer’s list of the Best State Park in Each State (yes I am behind in writing as Bash Bish is #8), and I’ve realized that there is something unique about each park. Not all parks have a ton of different activities, view points, and sites, nor are they all big. But if you seek out what makes the park unique and perhaps combine it with other parks/sites in the area, it will be worth the visit. This is especially relevant as I write about Bash Bish Falls State Park.

So, I had just finished a great hike at Mt. Frissell – the highest point in Connecticut and I was excited to visit Bash Bish Falls State Park. The park is 424 acres and the main attraction is Bash Bish Falls – the highest single-drop waterfall in Massachusetts – with a dramatic final pitch that drops about 80 feet into an emerald plunge pool. It is adjacent to the 4,000-acre Mount Washington State Forest, as well as New York’s 5,000-acre Taconic State Park – two places to add to your visit.

I had done a little research and learned that the Massachusetts parking area was under construction, so I parked on the New York side – not the end of the world – but adds to the story.

Parking: Where you park determines your hike to the falls.

From Massachusetts Parking Lot: (When it reopens) Difficult ability (I can’t attest to this), about 0.6 miles round-trip. It’s shorter, more rugged, and strenuous per the park website.
From New York Parking Lot: Moderate ability (it’s really easy in my opinion), about 1.5 miles round-trip. It’s longer and gradual, but rocky and uneven per the park website.

Pictures: Views along the hike up to Bash Bish Falls

As you can see in the above pictures – more and more parks are asking that you refrain from stacking rocks or making cairns and rightfully so. This practice is disruptive to the environment – not only does it cause harmful erosion, but many insects and mammals head under rocks to live, reproduce or escape their predators. Now don’t get me wrong, people have been stacking rocks since the dawn of time, typically for directional or burial purposes. And more recently, park officials began creating them on hiking trails – especially potentially confusing paths – to help ensure hikers don’t get lost. But we shouldn’t be creating them for the sake of an Instagram post. Our future relies on a healthy natural environment and we need to abide by the motto – Leave no Trace!

*Picture:* Entering into Massachusetts and Bash Bish Falls State Park

The falls are beautiful and I really enjoyed hiking the gorge. It certainly was a relaxing visit and especially welcoming after a long hike up to Mt. Frissell.

*Picture:* Bash Bish Falls and the emerald plunge pool

Pictures: The deep, verdant gorge | Bash Bish Falls and the gorge

If you’re in the area, it’s definitely worth the visit and there are a ton of things to do in both the Berkshires and the Taconic Mountain Range.

Date of Visit: 12 May 2023

Liberty State Park | New Jersey

By Stephen

On August 20, 2023

In blog | adventure | travel | best state parks list

One of the State Parks that really surprised me was Liberty State Park | New Jersey. With the Manhattan skyline, Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island as a spectacular backdrop, Liberty State Park has got to be one of the state’s most dramatic parks. This 1212-acre State Park is one of newer State Parks – officially opening in 1976 to coincided with bicentennial celebrations. Much of the interior of the park is undergoing restoration due to hazardous material and severely contaminated land as much of the park is situated on landfilled tidal flats. But this shouldn’t be of concern and there is so much to enjoy at the park.

As many of you know, I am pretty passionate about making parks accessible to everyone, and Liberty State Park does not disappoint as there is no entrance fee. I parked at the Freedom Way parking lot and decided to visit the north end of the park first and then work my way south. Once past the parking lot and picnic area, you immediately see the dramatic Jersey City and Manhattan skylines.

Pictures: Jersey City skyline | Manhattan skyline with the North Cove in the foreground

The park has a rich history and you will find numerous monuments and memorials as you tour it. I first came across La Vela di Colombo, a two-story sail-shaped bronze monument designed by Gino Gianetti that commemorates the 500th anniversary of the westward journey of Christopher Columbus to America in 1492. The “Sail of Columbus” sits atop a stone base in the shape of a ship and features scenes of Columbus and his travels and was a gift from Government of Italy and the City of Genoa.

Next up – the historic Central Railroad of New Jersey Terminal (CRRNJ Train Terminal). From 1892 it was from this ferry/train station that two-thirds of all immigrants arriving at Ellis Island spread out across the US. And by the turn of the century, the CRRNJ Terminal accommodated between 30,000-50,000 commuters per day on 128 ferry runs and 300 trains. Still standing today are the Bush train sheds, housing 20 tracks and at the time the largest one ever built and the Communipaw Terminal, designed in a Richardsonian Romanesque style by architects Peabody & Stearns of Boston, Massachusetts and completed in 1889.

Pictures: Historic Train | The Communipaw Terminal

As you come around the Bush Train Sheds, you are immediately struck by The ‘Empty Sky’ 9/11 Memorial. It’s the official State of New Jersey Memorial that honors the memory of the 750 people that lived in or had ties to New Jersey that lost their lives at the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and Shanksville, PA on September 11, 2001

The names are placed randomly on the twin brushed stainless steel walls. Individuals’ names (4 inches tall) are within reach and engraved deep enough for hand rubbing. The memorial, designed by Jessica Jamroz and Frederic Schwartz, was dedicated on September 11, 2011, the 10-year anniversary.

The brushed stainless steel twin walls are 210 feet long, the width of each side of the World Trade Center Towers. They rise 30 feet, standing parallel to each other with a 12-foot wide paved path of bluestone between them. Like the World Trade Center, the stainless steel reflects the constantly changing light of day. The memorial invites visitors to literally and metaphorically look toward the empty sky in memory and look forward as a community.

*Picture:* The ‘Empty Sky’ 9/11 Memorial

Pictures: The ‘Empty Sky’ 9/11 Memorial

From the front of the CRRNJ Terminal, you can take a walk along the 2-mile Hudson River Waterfront Walkway. From the terminal you can also take a ferry to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. As you walk along the waterfront, you will first pass Ellis Island then Liberty Island and the Statue of Liberty.

*Picture:* Statue of Liberty and Liberty Island

At the southern end of the park is Black Tom Island and another monument – the Liberation Monument which commemorates the Holocaust and the role of the United States in preserving freedom and rescuing the oppressed. The memorial depicts an American soldier carrying a Jewish concentration camp survivor.

Pictures: The Liberation Monument

Picture: The Manhattan skyline with Ellis Island in the foreground

I finished up my visit with a walk through the Green Ring and Crescent Field. Liberty State Park is a great place for a run, to walk, to picnic and to enjoy spectacular views of the Manhattan skyline, Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty. I would highly recommend a visit if you are in the area.

Date of visit: 11 May 2023

Blackwater Falls State Park | West Virginia

By Stephen

On August 15, 2023

In blog | adventure | travel | best state parks list

Blackwater Falls lives up to its hype as one of the most photographed and visited sites in West Virginia! It was, yet again, the perfect “storm” of events – I stayed on site at the Blackwater Falls State Park Lodge, the leaves were starting to turn color, the hikes were amazing, and the scenery breathtaking.

About the Park – Located in the Allegheny Mountains, Blackwater Falls State Park is named for the amber waters of Blackwater Falls, a 57-foot cascade tinted by the tannic acid of fallen hemlock and red spruce needles. The falls, along with a few of the park’s other features like Elakala Falls, Lindy Point and Pendleton Point Overlook, are some of the state’s most photographed spots. Visitors can enjoy the scenic views year-round by taking the steps to the falls, using viewing platforms or hiking the 20 miles of trails the park has to offer.

The Lodge was nice, comfortable and clean – it was originally built in the 1950’s and since then has been renovated. There is a restaurant called the Smokehouse – and as you can guess – heavy on meat, but even this pescatarian was able to navigate the menu. However, it was unfortunate that they were understaffed for the volume of people and the restaurant itself needs a makeover. The space is also very awkward and cavernous in my opinion.

Pictures: The Lodge | A King Room overlooking the Canyon

Pictures: Views from the back of The Lodge

The next day was dedicated to hiking. Elakala Trail was first hike – a modest 0.5 mile trail where you pass by Elakala Falls. The trail starts at the south end of Blackwater Lodge, bridges the upper section with a great view of Elakala Falls, continues along the canyon rim and ends at the main park road across from Balanced Rock Trail. And as a surprise to those who know me well, I did not check-in to win prizes. I must have been off my “challenge game” that day!

Pictures: The WV Waterfall Trail Challenge | Elakala Falls from the top

I continued on to Balanced Rock Trail – a 1-mile trail that is somehow marked as somewhat difficult to difficult by the park service – but I am not sure if I would go that far. The trail crosses Shay Trace and Red Spruce Riding trails, continues to Balanced Rock and ends near Cabin 13 and Park Forest Road. One of the things I learned about West Virginia is that the state flower is the Rhododendron and this was evident as I hiked Balanced Rock Trail – rhododendrons were everywhere. At the end of the trail there are a couple of surprise – a large Field of Cairns – if you build it, they will come – and of all things a pay phone. I guess because cell service is spotty, there’s an option to call home ET – provided you have exact change. Wow – two movie references back to back!

Pictures: Balanced Rock Trail

Pictures: The Field of Cairns

From here, I took a short walk up Park Forest Road until it connected to Shay Trace Trail. If you go left on Shay Trace you will end up at the base of the sled run, and if you go right – which I did – you will end up back at The Lodge. Along this trail you’ll cross Shay Run – the stream that flows over Elakala Falls that will give you a real sense of the amber waters in the area. I finished this hike at The Lodge for a total distance for this hike 2.4-miles.

Next it was off to Lindy Point Overlook. I drove there from The Lodge and decided to stop by the Sled Run and Nordic Center. Although not much to see at the Sled Run and Nordic Center, it was cool to see both. Back in the car and up to the small parking lot at the Lindy Point trailhead. Lindy Point Trail is an easy 0.7 mile out-and-back trail that sits at 3,000 feet and ends up overlooking the Blackwater Canyon. It was a bit wet and muddy the day I was there, but well worth the drive and short hike as you can see by the spectacular views.

Pictures: Views from Lindy Point Overlook

*Picture:* Blackwater Canyon from Lindy Point Overlook

From Lindy Point, I drove back into the park past the Lodge to the parking area across from the maintenance area and the Gentle trailhead. Gentle Trail is a short – 0.25 mile out-and-back – paved path to an observation deck overlooking Blackwater Falls. You quickly realize why this park is so popular and why it is one of the most photographed places in West Virginia when you see the falls from the observation deck. You can also see the leaves had started to change and I can only imagine how amazingly beautiful this place would look in a couple more weeks when the leaves are in full color.

Pictures: The Gentle Trail | Blackwater Falls from the observation deck

Next, I took a shirt drive across the canyon, over the Blackwater River – where the amber color is even more deep and intense – to the Trading Post parking lot.

*Picture:* The Blackwater River and its deep amber color

The Blackwater Falls Boardwalk Trail starts at the Trading Post parking area and leads to a stone patio and boardwalk more than 200 steps down to an observation deck beside Blackwater Falls. This is the main viewing area for the falls and you get a pretty awesome view of the falls. On the way back up, I stopped at the upper viewing area for another view of the falls, then took the trail to the left (not sure if it has a name) back up to the parking lot versus going up the stairs. The total distance for the loop is about 0.5 mile and you get a good aerobic workout on the way back up.

*Picture:* Blackwater Falls from the lower observation deck

Picture: Blackwater Falls from the upper observation deck

My next stop was Pendleton Point Overlook. It’s a short drive from the Trading Post parking lot, but as I felt like I was jumping in and out of the car, I decided to hike there. So I crossed the Blackwater Falls Road and up Picnic Acres Road to the Spudder Track Trail. In the winter time this trail is part of the beginner loop for cross country skiers. The trail goes behind the vacation-style cottages and by a picnic shelter, before you get to another parking area for Pendleton Point. It wasn’t the most scenic trail and only about 0.5 mile, but I did see some deer along the way.

Pictures: Someone has an itch | She didn’t like the fact that I interrupted her scratching

Finally it was out to Pendleton Point – a short 0.2 mile out and back trail. From Pendleton Point you get another breathtaking view of the canyon and you can see the Lodge across the canyon.

Pictures: Blackwater Canyon from Pendleton Point

Picture: Blackwater Falls State Park Lodge from Pendleton Point

The end of the hike was a bit anti-climatic as I walked along Blackwater Falls Road back to the Trading Post parking lot – about 0.5 mile. Total distance for this hike, including going down to the observation decks was 2.25 miles. All in all – a great experience, an amazing park and I’d highly recommend a visit!

Date of visit: 3-4 October 2022

Natural Bridge State Park | Kentucky

By Stephen

On August 11, 2023

In blog | adventure | travel | best state parks list

One of my favorite parks I have visited thus far is Natural Bridge State Park in Kentucky. I think alot had to do with it being the “perfect storm” of events – I stayed in the park at the Hemlock Lodge, there weren’t a ton of people there, I got up and went hiking early, and when I got to the Natural Bridge, I was the only person on the bridge! And seeing how popular this park is, I was lucky to have the solitude and serenity.

About the park: Tucked within the Daniel Boone National Forest, Natural Bridge State Park is a 2,300-acre park that features a magnificent, natural sandstone arch. The bridge spans an incredible 78 feet and reaches 65 feet high, towering over an area nicknamed, “Kentucky’s Land of Arches.” The park also highlights over 20 miles of hiking trails to famous Kentucky sights like Fat Man’s Squeeze, Balanced Rock, and Lover’s Leap.

My hike: My room overlooked the lake area, which intrigued me, so despite knowing that I was going to hike down hill and then back up to the lodge parking lot to the Original Trail – about a total of a 1/2 mile. I did it and I was happy as it gave me a chance to explore more of this beautiful park. At the parking lot, there were several signs about bears, and knowing I was hiking alone and that there were few people out hiking, I had a little trepidation, but went on. I have since better educated myself on bears and what to do and I also carry bear spray as a last resort.

From the parking lot, I continued up the Original Trail to the Natural Bridge. This is the steepest part of the trail with an elevation change of 420 ft. It is a beautiful hike through the forest surrounded by hemlock, tulip trees, white pines and thickets of rhododendron. And of course, I saw my favorite – mushrooms – and had to take a picture.

Pictures: Some of the rock formations on the Original Trail up to the Natural Bridge

Pictures: Mushrooms – the beauty of nature | The Original Trail

As you come to the top of the Original Trail, you come around a bend, and see the Natural Bridge for the first time. I was not prepared for how magnificent it was going to be and the closer I got to it, the more awe-inspiring it was. It always amazes me at the power of nature and what it can create. The trail continues up until you are right under the bridge. From under the bridge, there is a super – yes super – narrow walkway – next to the bridge – that takes you up to the top of the bridge.

*Picture:* My first glimpse of the Natural Bridge

*Picture:* The Original Trail as you come to the base of the Natural Bridge

*Picture:* Underneath the Natural Bridge

*Picture:* One of my favorite views of the Natural Bridge

*Picture:* And super cool in black and white

Pictures: More of the underside of the Natural Bridge

Pictures: The super narrow stairway up to the top of the Natural Bridge

The second WOW – being on top of the bridge. I wasn’t prepared for the magnificent views and to be on such a daunting structure – it was super cool. And I’ll be honest – with my slight fear of heights, it was a bit scary on top, but well worth it! It should be noted, and as you can see from the pictures, there are no guardrails up there – just some warning signs to be careful near the edge. There are stories of people being careless and falling off, so be careful on top. From the top of the Natural Bridge, you can see Lookout Point in the distance – where I am headed to next.

Pictures: My first view of the top of the Natural Bridge | The massive beauty of the bridge

*Picture:* The view from the top looking at Lookout Point

Pictures: The beautiful morning fog in the valley | Me on top of the world!

From the Natural Bridge I took the Laurel Ridge Trail (#9) – a hike along the rim of the cliffs, where you will eventually pass the Skylift – a chair lift taking people up to the top. The trail then winds out to Lookout Point – the sandstone cliff you could see from the Natural Bridge. From Lookout Point, you get more amazing views and you can look back at the Natural Bridge. There is quite a big drop off from the point, and again there are no guard rails, so be careful as you get near the edge. I took a moment and had breakfast on Lookout Point, taking in the beauty and enjoying the serenity nature has to offer.

*Picture:* Looking back at the Natural Bridge

The trail continues along the rim and it can be narrow at some points, with some step drop-offs. Next you will come to two, very steep, stairs – Devil’s Gulch and Needle’s Eye – both will take you down to Battleship Rock Trail (#3). However, I continued on the trail to Lover’s Leap – another overlook with breathtaking views of the canyon below.

Pictures: Views from Lover’s Leap

Lover’s Leap is a dead end, so after enjoying the views, I turnaround and headed back. I decided to go down Needle’s Eye – built in 1934 by the Civilian Conservation Corps – which is very steep – so I took my time going down. At the base of the stairs, you connect to Battleship Rock Trail (#3). I took the trail back towards the Natural Bridge and along the way you will pass Battleship Rock and other beautiful rock formations. And for the life of me, I am not sure why I don’t have a picture of Battleship Rock?

Pictures: Needle’s Eye

Pictures: The hike along Battleship Rock Trail

Back at the Natural Bridge, I connected to the Rock Garden Trail (#4) which winds around below the cliffs and eventually takes you back to the Hemlock Lodge. I am so happy I decided to take this trail as you pass by more spectacular rock formations.

Pictures: Rock formations along Rock Garden Trail

Pictures: More rock formations along Rock Garden Trail

I was glad that I started out my day early and that I did not check out as I was able to take a shower and change before check out time and before I hit the road again. The total distance for the hike was about 4 miles and took me about 2 hrs. as I stopped several times. I highly recommend a visit to Natural Bridge State Park in Kentucky!

Date of visit: 16 September 2022

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Tag: Best State Park Page 3 of 4

DeSoto State Park | Alabama

Tishomingo State Park | Mississippi

Franconia Notch State Park | New Hampshire

Lincoln Woods State Park | Rhode Island

Gillette Castle State Park | Connecticut

Starved Rock State Park | Illinois

Bash Bish Falls State Park | Massachusetts

Liberty State Park | New Jersey

Blackwater Falls State Park | West Virginia

Natural Bridge State Park | Kentucky