Waking up at 6:00 AM was worth it last Saturday. Why get up early to go on a thirteen mile hike, one might ask. For me, it was easy because hiking is something I love to do, but for some, I realize it is not a thing you would find worthwhile. Well, let me tell you that it is. As tired as you may get once you get to the top of the mountain, your perspective will change with a view of the mountain tops seen for miles and being up with the clouds. There is a huge feeling of accomplishment once you get to the top of that mountain, and even more so after you walk the ridge and look back at where you started.
Last Saturday was the day I hiked Mount Liberty, Little Haystack, Franconia Ridge Trail, and The Falling Waters trail with a group from Lyndon. It was a great experience—meeting new people, seeing new sights, and having a good day away from textbooks. When I hike, it clears my mind more than anything else. When I am frustrated with a school project or have been working on a project for a long amount of time, getting outdoors is the best way to clear my head. Going out hiking makes me leave my stress behind, and when I come back to projects later, I feel more open-minded and less frustrated. Studying is great, but there are times where you need to get away, especially if you have been studying for a while. I feel like hiking or exercising is just enough to clear your head.
The hike was a great experience and I feel like I learned a lot. I learned where not to step because of the fragile vegetation, how to walk in a group, which plants are edible, and how to be mindful of other hikers on the trail. I have hiked most of my life and have not known some of these really important things, so it was really good for me to finally learn the proper techniques of hiking.
We had a good amount of water and snack breaks to keep ourselves from getting too tired during our journey. Once we reached the top of the mountain, the views were incredible. Taking pictures of it did not do it justice. On our way back from the ridge, we hiked by a beautiful waterfall called the Falling Waters Trail. It was a great end to an amazing hike. It was so peaceful and tucked away in the woods; I found it very relaxing to go to after such a long hike.
If thirteen miles seems like a lot for you, start small. Go on a short hike, enjoy the views, and immerse yourself in nature. I guarantee you will not come back feeling the same.
All pictures were provided by Rachel Carpenter and Lens of the Eye Photography. Follow more of her photography on the Lens of the Eye Photography Facebook page.