Trees and rocks… rocks and trees ahead.
You’ve been warned.
Oh, come on.
Early morning day 4, we woke with the sun and headed out for a hike to Step Falls.
I wish I could convey the sense of peace that envelops me when I walk into a forest. The fresh air of natural places, the gentle breeze swaying the leaves. The sweet songs of the birds, the whisper of the trees. It’s pure magic.
I don’t know who’s responsible for finding these wild and beautiful places and opening them to the public… but I’ll be forever grateful.
Step Falls in Bethel, Maine. In October when we visited… gently cascading streams. In spring during snow melt season? Torrents of angry water rushing down the mountain not caring what lies in it’s path.
Many of the places we visit are free to the public, but are maintained by local volunteers who ask that you donate to help with costs. Most people never do, so we make a point of it each and every time.
And with this Cycloptic donation box…. how could you not?
The paths were wide and friendly…
Although I couldn’t help but feel I was being watched.
Into the woods…
Up the hill, where we first heard the falls.
Up some stone steps.
Up some fortuitously placed tree roots.
We see a bit more water.
No.
Not even close…
Ever onward…
And upward…
Past some weird trees growing right around the rocks.
More of the falls.
And a not very comfortable but necessary granite bench to stop and let the husband take a breath.
The Meme at the end! Love it! 😉
Looks beautiful out there, I love places like this!
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It’s a beautiful area. Lots to see and explore!
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I’m rather surprised that you have not shown us (because people have so many rocks) rock “type” fences – …yanno. woot!!!
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Stay tuned…
😊
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All these trees and….. no squirrels? Maybe there aren’t enough acorn donations…
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It seemed decidedly squirrel-less. Perhaps they’re blog shy…
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You always seem to be way behind your husband. Does he even know you are there?
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Well, someone needs to walk slowly in order to document our expeditions.
And… someone has a blog with readers who are breathless with anticipation at the mere thought of rocks. These things take time.
And in answer to your question? Yes. I’m rather hard to miss.
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I was wondering if you were just stalking an innocent Marine…
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#1… I am anything but stealthy.
#2…. I don’t think there’s any such thing!
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I don’t have to be faster than the bear. I just have to be faster than you. LOL. LOVELY…..How many parts to this one?
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Just one more I’m afraid….
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All beautiful but leave it to me to focus on the non-beauty part of the post. Why do people doing sign language have such exaggerated expressions on their faces? Have you looked at them standing just to the side and slightly back from someone giving a speech as they interpret and sign? Their faces look like they are getting electroshock treatments. My wife gets on to me for making fun of them but I’m not making fun, I just want to know why they all do it.
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Dramatic effect?
I mean, they could yell to get their point across… but who would hear them?
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Another post about such a beautiful place (that’s not near me) and great photos! Thanks Oprah Rocks!
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You’re welcome. Glad you’re enjoying them!
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“And with this Cycloptic donation box…. how could you not?” Looks exactly like out ‘poop bags’ for dogs!
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You pay for dog poop? Florida is such a strange place….
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That forest screams Blair Witch but yes, beautiful indeed.
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Hmm… maybe at night. In the morning, it was witch free.
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The dropped leaves, rocks and roots in these photos evoke nostalgia for the trails of western Washington near my native town of Seattle. Add ferns, ‘shrooms and slugs and one wouldn’t know which coast they were viewing!
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It was late in the year for ferns….. but we did see a lot at the Polar Caves in my previous posts. Of course Seattle has a wee bit more rain.
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I love the ending ! I also enjoyed the falls.
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Watch your STEP, or you’ll take some FALLS.
That’s either the origin of the name, or a pun that galls.
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I believe all puns gall, do they not?
😉
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‘Tis galling to live for puns, but not for a living….
Yet, with all my gall, I wish you Happy Thanksgiving!
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Absolutely stunning scenery. I borrowed your peace for a bit, thank you.
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Happy to share…
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I love hiking in the fall. I also love coffee in the fall. It is a struggle.
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And with so much running water, yes. I see the dilemma…
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What a magical place!
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