The Casual Hike

I started South Duel Creek Trail near Bountiful, Utah, before sunrise, using my phone’s flashlight to follow a narrow path above a ravine. The four-mile hike crosses the creek on eleven footbridges, climbs over loose gravel and rock, and ends at a waterfall. The descent revealed cascades I missed earlier.

On a cold, windy morning, Kevin hikes Catherine Pass from the Alta side, discovering he has visited the lakes before from Brighton. As sunrise warms the ridge, he encounters wildlife, crosses varied terrain, and enjoys Lake Catherine and neighboring lakes. The return brings steep climbs, changing views, and a finish.

Revisiting Grandeur Peak after ten years, I take on a steep Utah climb in thin morning air. The hike brings rocky switchbacks, sweeping Salt Lake City views, and a hard final ascent. At the summit, I reflect on aging, knee support, and why the descent can be tougher than the climb.

My first hike in South Carolina took me to Opossum Creek Trail in Oconee County. A beautiful forest, scenic Chattooga River views, and the impressive Opossum Creek Falls combined to create one of the most enjoyable hikes I've done recently. This trail delivered far more solitude and scenery than I expected.

Godfrey and I are back on trail. Bearden Falls is one of the 5 that will be in rotation for Godfrey. With his hips I have to have trails for him that aren't too strenuous but still provide him with the mountain streams he loves.