Wet and Wild – Waterfall Hike March 2012

This trip made two hikes in a row with the most perfect weather. Clear skies and a high in the low 80’s; life is good. With all this water, fun- loving people, and perfect weather, I knew we were in for a treat. Robert, the nine- year- old “Jr. Guide” from the previous week, hadn’t had enough hiking, so he was back for more. He jumped right to the front, leading the group again. Starting this hike with a slower pace has always worked well.

Since we start on the improved trail with some steep hills right away, this seems to keep the group together and not wear anyone down too early. On our way to the first waterfall, labeled as #4, I initiated Robert into the Clark Creek Indian tribe with war paint using the red colored clay from the creek bed. He thought this was pretty cool and had no problem posing for pictures. Continuing on, some in our group thought that they had discovered a bear print in the sand, only to find out that I had made the print with my hand and strategically placed it where someone would find it. Sorry 🙂

We stopped at the #6 waterfall as we usually do for lunch, enjoying a tuna salad pita with black bean salsa, lettuce, and a peanut butter cookie for desert. The meal today seemed to be a hit since the majority of the food was finished off, and this is not usually the case on other hikes. When we arrived at waterfall # 3, some could not wait to jump into the water, and it seemed to be contagious because almost everyone followed. It was one in, then another, and as soon as one person got out of the way, another person was walking in. I have never had this many people get in the water before. The chilling water took our breath away for a moment, until our bodies were able to adjust. But once we were able to catch our breath and feel the pounding of the waterfall on our backs, it was like having our own personal masseuse. It was nice to see so many adults playing like kids as if they were in the front yard sprinkler.

The hike up to the last two waterfalls was turning into a climb, making it more difficult to progress and requiring us “men” to lend a hand. After a few last group photos were taken, we made our way out and back to the parking lot. We were able to clean up a lot of trash from the trail and creek bed, and I was really excited to later find that everyone had been so willing to stuff the garbage in MY pack.
Thanks to all for visiting. I enjoyed my time with all of you.
Be wild, get outdoors!
Kevin Wallis

Follow this link to see the rest of the photos from the trip: https://packpaddle.com/events-and-trips/recent-trips-photos/?album=WaterfallLevel1March2012