Friday, February 10, 2012

Hiking Bliss

We had a wonderful short hike in the Gorge this week and a relaxing hour or so in the hot springs�at Black Rock. It is a lot easier to get there if you go across the John Dunn bridge. Either way, it is a dirt road voyage�for the adventurer in your soul. Once there the hike down to the hot springs�can be done in Birks�or flip-flops�(if you're a rebel like me) or tennies.

The river is just at that perfect level so that the spring is pleasant for soaking in -- and there are two pools (but watch out for the fish and crawdads in the lower one!).

Now that hiking season is here remember to use sunblock. Whatever SPF you are used to getting -- get a stronger one! The sun out here is voracious ... and a sunburn can happen in as little as 15 minutes. Water is also an absolute must. If you think you will drink one bottle -- strap on a pack and take two. I get heat sick very easily so I also like to carry a bandana and soak it in cold water then put it around my neck -- it really helps. I am not a hat person, but if I were that would help too.

Snacks are a must. Gorp is always a great standby but if you are allergic to nuts or chocolate then try raisins and other dried fruits and granola bars. They will give you that pop of natural sugar energy that you are looking for.

We had some guests stay this weekend who went hiking. One couple went to Arsenic�Springs and said that they had a lovely time and were able to explore the area extensively. Another couple went up the Ski Valley road to Italianos Canyon and said that it was a good climb with occasional thigh deep snow (it has been so warm down here that they were quite shocked to find that much snow up there).

Brad and I can't wait to go up to the mountain in the harvest season for the wild strawberries, apsaragus, and mushrooms. I am certain we can work those items into breakfast --- somehow ;)

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