June Adventure! Hiking at Greenbrier State Park Boonsboro MD June 26th 2017

Hello All!

I was just itchin' to get back out into the woods after a fun experience at Annapolis Rock- so I decided to go to Greenbrier State Park. It was very nice out- not too hot and clear skies.  My original thoughts were to do the Big Red Trail- supposedly 4.5 miles at moderate level-- but when I got there and read the trail maps and descriptions from the park it was marked strenuous.  What?!  Better not do that.....

So.....

I decided to start with a much smaller trail- marked "good for beginners" :)

At only 0.8 miles it was a good way to warm up since I hadn't been on a long walk/hike it a few weeks.  It was exactly what I needed-- to get out into the woods and enjoy the peace of nature.  It was stunning.

 The first thing on this trail was going what felt like straight up and I was shocked at how my heart was pounding- but once I got to more level ground I was met with an expanse of ferns.

 This trail wasn't as clear as the one at Annapolis Rock- so using the blaze on the trees really helped. 

 This trail was perfect for teaching a beginner to follow different blazes.  I had my map with me but it was perfect to learn these skills on this little trail.

 At the half way mark of the trail I came upon this little seating area.  I sat and enjoyed the scenery for awhile before moving on. 

Some crows were calling in the later part of this trail- making me look into the high tree tops- what I saw was gorgeous. 

I didn't see anyone else on the trail and no bear!  I felt much more relaxed on this hike.  I think because I was in a state park and I could just barely hear the chatter of the people at the lake it made me feel safer.  The chatter did fade the deeper I went into the woods. 

Feeling good and not tired yet, I decided to do another trail--  I sat down for a snack while I decided my route.

I decided to do a portion of the Big Red Trail to get to Copperhead Trail.  I would practice following my map and following blazes.  It wasn't hard at all.  I saw two deer and had a great time.  I will baby step to the full Big Red Trail.

I didn't take pictures on this trail.  It was a wonderful hike and I'm looking forward to going back.  I have set a goal to hike all the trails in the park. 

All in all I only hiked alittle over 2 miles.  It was great and I felt really good and confident when I finished.  My drive home was relaxing and my soul had been filled back up to the brim!

Next month I go camping!  Woohoo!

Until Next Time.