I FINALLY took my dusty bike outside and dragged it to the trail near my apartment for a short ride. That trail is nothing like Yosemite National Park or any of the trails in northern Michigan, mind you… but it’s a very nice instant mini-escape from city life right by my apartment. That is, once I get over being creeped out by random people wandering the trails.
From my apartment, there’s an “exit” from the trail that supposedly goes about 5 miles in either direction from that “exit”… and I’d already explored part of one direction, so I decided to go the other way this time. After a nice little cruise with air in my face and a whiff of the trees and plants, admiring the creek that follows the trail… I came smackdab to a deadend that turned into big rocks and sand. I got off before I could smash into a rock and flip over my bke (thank god) but decided to walk my bike further along the trail to see what’s up. This is what I found.
Gorgeous… and right by my apt?! Niiiice. I passed a couple who were just sitting there by the creek, reading a book and newspaper and relaxing in the sun. I don’t blame them. I took several more pics and they were great… Then I decided to head back the other way and just explore the trail a bit. Ehh- it went into several towns, so it wasn’t as englightening as the “surprise” I got at the other end.
I probably won’t go back on this trail since it’s so limited… but it sure ignited my desire to get back into touch with nature. I’ve been DYING to go camping, hiking, kayaking, biking in the REAL nature… and so on. My experiences are limited, which is more the reason to get into touch with nature and just go all out. I got camping equipment for Christmas and I STILL haven’t used them. Ridiculous.
My bf and I have been discussing (for way too long) about renting a Harley and loading up a mini-pack and just zooming to Shenandoah Valley for the weekend. Baiii… but just gotta DO it! Time and other “commitments” always get in the way. No excuse, but still. We went to Shenandoah Valley with some friends nearly over two years ago (wow, that long??) and that was my first time seeing the valley… daaaaaang. Here’s a sample:
Now you see why I GOTTA go back and explore some more, eh?
Other dream camping trips: anywhere in the mountains of West Virginia, Assateague State Park in Maryland, anywhere out in the West, any of the national parks… I’m flexible. Not picky at all- just has to be REAL nature at my feet! I’m at the point in my life where I’m dying to just grab a vehicle with good gas-per-mileage (especially with the gas prices, sheesh) and plenty of food and a map and just … ZOOM. You can bet I’ll go through a heck of a lot of parks across the country. I just might do that before school starts up again this fall.
On that note- I’ll leave you off with a picture that I hope will ignite the nature-lover in you! There are plenty more natural treasures around DC than most people are willing to admit.
That’s really nice,just keep on,I look forward your more
pics.