I’m fortunate to live a stone’s throw from one of the most beautiful state parks in Ohio. I go there often but it takes a little work to avoid the throngs of tourists who come to sightsee. Early and late is best but there are some trails that are underused and those are the ones I like best.

This morning, I was at the park just after seven so I could hike the touristy areas and then finished up with a little walk to Rose Lake, one of my favorite trails for just getting outside and breathing fresh air.

Most of these pictures were taken down in the gorge, surrounded by gorgeous rock outcroppings where the light is odd for my phone. In other words, these pictures don’t do justice to the place but it gives you some idea of what you might see there.

You see a lot of trees that have a real will to live.

Sometimes you see things that look a little out of place….

Sometimes you see lovely signs of fall.

And sometimes you are just struck by how beautiful everything is, even when it’s early and dark and the colors are a bit dull because of poor lighting.

While the hike is about the journey, I always am excited to reach the lake.

I hiked about six miles today and my Fitbit claims that I walked up 83 flights of stairs. That seems about right but it felt like more at the time! I hope you get out and enjoy this gorgeous day!