We did it! We froze but we did it! We squeaked in the last hike before the November 30th deadline – and the snow storm.
For our last endeavor we decided on Messenger Woods in Lockport. We bundled up in our winter coats, hats, gloves, and hiking boots. I’m so glad we geared up this time because the terrain was most definitely NOT smooth. We literally trekked through the woods for this one. Up. Down. Twisting and winding our way along the leaf-covered trail. Avoiding camouflaged roots that threatened our balance. It wasn’t terribly tough but we certainly had to pay attention to where we stepped.
The north loop was fairly short and when we reached the end of it we saw the arrow pointing us in the direction of the south loop which creates a much wider circle around the preserve. Although the trees were basically bare, there was still plenty of color on the ground and the sun shining through cast a golden glow on everything it touched. Needless to say that, because of the cold, we didn’t linger too long here. We essentially speed-walked our way around so that we could hop in the truck and crank up the heated seats. We agreed that we would definitely come back next year when everything is in bloom and the weather is better for a leisurely stroll. We’ll probably bring the camera too – I’m sure we’ll have a lot to take in when the forest is alive with color and activity! Overall this was a treat. It’s too bad we were too cold to really enjoy it! LOL I would definitely recommend this trail and I’m looking forward to going back.
Hubby and I submitted our hikes and completed the form to receive our medallions. I’ll be back with a picture and an update once we get them. We’re glad to have completed the mission and we’re already thinking about next year. In the meantime, there’s a turkey sandwich with my name on it waiting for me. Gotta go……
Happy hiking!
#WoodsWalk2025
#reconnectwithnature
Wholeness Health and YOU! 