Coal Creek Falls with Arlene

I presume this is Coal Creek, since those are the Coal Creek Falls.

Today wasn't a day for elevation gain. It was a light outing with a friend, Arlene Levy, who is getting back in shape while recovering from a broken hip that resulted from a freak fall while traveling. Yes, broken hips don't always result from osteoporosis. Sometimes they are caused by frisky dogs.

I thought this was going to be a slow-hiking day, but Arlene was pushing herself, and I have been sitting a lot lately while taking it easy following cataract surgery. I found myself working to keep up with her. Later, when a took a late-afternoon nap, I woke up in time to enjoy a nice charley horse in my left inner thigh. I had to clutch my leg muscles to reign it in.

It rained, and I learned that I really needed to have a cover for the light backpack I wore today, and into which I stuffed a down vest after overheating on the trail. I was also reminded that even for a light hike, a sweat band is handy to have along.

I call this long shot "destination," because the trail is pointing directly toward the falls.

I call this photo "Tombstones" because of the stumps that stand sentinel to the falls.

The hollow spot in the tree trunk would make a good shelter for a bear.

Statistics for the day:

Distance: 3.8 miles
Elevation gain: Not worth considering
Conditions: Cool, overcast, drizzle
Load: Not worth mentioning.
:

Statistics, year to date:

Distance: 13.4 miles

Elevation gain: 4,000 feet