Solitude has a Season
Winter hiking, even on a sunny day, usually is a solitary event. Few people enjoy its solitude with me on the trails. I’m scouting out new trails to add to my circuit. This lakeshore trail has some promise. I was immediately greeted by a Kingfisher who was not interested in a portrait. I headed inland into a mature forest and about 1200 feet of ascent. It was more than enough to keep me warm on a breezy and brisk day. There was no overlook on this portion of the trail but the open canopy provided some nice vistas. One hawk did not appreciate my intrusion on its solitude. The opportunities to observe spring birds and wildflowers looks promising, but by then I’ll be sharing the trail with others fishing, backpacking, and listening to Boats on the water. I spotted the telltale markings of a Bald Eagle in the distance – another sign of promise. For now at least, I’ll enjoy the winter solitude.
Sunday Scene: Buckeye Trail, Muskingum Watershed, Tappan Lake Park
the Ordinary Hiker 
It’s a real treat to have nature as your only companion sometimes.
Yes it is. I find these hikes to be very productive for my mind.
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Love winter hiking too. But I promise I won’t intrude on your solitude…
Ha, 🙂 I enjoy the random encounters with folks on the trails. Those conversations have a way of topping a hike off. But I do enjoy my space…
The lake is beautiful. Have fun with the solitude while it lasts.
I’ll make the most of it. Some new trails to scout yet 🙂
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