Erin had mentioned a while ago that on their last visit to Great Bear, she and Alden had ventured along the river beyond our normal turnaround point, coming back a different way, via the Root Hill Trail instead of Great Bear Road. This is not significantly longer but adds great interest, and avoids a big climb at the end of the hike, which is advantageous when hiking with young kids. Frankie and I were immediately intrigued, and excited to join in another time. Today proved a perfect opportunity! We hadn't made advance plans and had a lazy morning, but it looked so nice outside, I started to get itchy. Alden has stopped napping, which makes it easier to wing it with haphazard adventures, so Erin and I texted back and forth a bit and decided to go for it. Neither of us had packable lunch supplies, so we met at Friendly's for a bit of lunch first. The boys were thrilled, of course. Then... off to the woods!!
We set off along our standard route to the river, Great Bear Road to Alec's Trail. There was a lovely afternoon light, and the blue sky was so cheering. We stopped to admire new signage and the boys goofed around -- Frankie knows he can't crush Alden without risking hurting him, but he is very happy to invite the reverse.
Of course we stopped to check out the pump house, a mandatory stop on any walk here. One of the buildings has been white-washed and otherwise excessively "improved." A locked gate/door has been installed, prohibiting access. Boo! Hopefully the brick building is not next in line.
Then on to the river landing, always a favorite for the boys. I don't know what it is about kids and water. It is challenging to keep Frankie from wading, regardless of the weather. Clearly not appropriate today!
After the requisite playing and goofing, we headed west along the river toward the old canal lock. I have been this way before, but not in several years. And last time we went, Frankie was upset about the deviation from the standard route, whereas today he was excited. It helps having a cousin along to play with!
After checking out the lock briefly, we distracted the boys with the stairs (they weren't exhibiting adequate caution about not falling in the water), then followed a cut back trail back down to the river and hopped on the Homestead Trail. More goofing, of course, and then Erin brought out some chocolate chips to help motivate Alden. The sun sets early this time of year, and the moon had risen before we made it back to the cars.
This hike was exactly what I needed. December is generally a tough time for me to take care of myself, and this year even more so. Holiday-related commitments, huge work deadlines, doctor and dentist appointments, Saturday ceramics class for Frankie, and events at school are all combining to prevent me from getting outside. But I need this stuff to maintain my mental health, I truly do. So today was a good day! Now I just have to get through the rest of the month. Wish me luck...
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