Mostly while tromping along a trail, you see some nice views, rocks, trees, maybe a lake (in our case, the Hudson) and other hikers.
This one was more active than expected. To note:
1. We ran across two large, black snakes that slithered across our path and into the underbrush. Rat snakes or corn snakes, maybe? None of us could get close enough to identify them, though a few guys made some grabs. (Famous last words: “It didn’t look venomous to me”) Both were at least three feet long.
2. The chewed-upon head of a baby deer. It took us a minute to figure out what this was, but the tawny hair speckled with white, and one remaining ear and eye finally clued us in. I’m thinking a hungry bear?
3. Lastly, a bee’s nest beneath a bridge some of our guys crossed. How did we know it was there? Mainly because one of the guys (Josh–not myself, but the guy who organized this trip) ended up yelling and slapping at his ankles as he ran across the bridge. Stings galore. Fortunately he wasn’t allergic, and I admire his ability to censor himself in mid-swear while experiencing a great deal of pain.
The real kicker came when we saw some other hikers coming down the hillside towards the same bridge. We yelled over to them and warned them of the bee’s nest. They saw it, and proceeded to continue over to our side. We’re not fifty steps down the path and we hear one of their group start screaming. Well…we did warn them. Again, no one seriously injured, but yeesh, wouldn’t you listen if someone announced that you were going to walk over a beehive?
Gorgeous views, though, and well-worth the effort.
I see that smile.
the bees reminded me of Bart “dancing” in the street that one day…bee stings HURT! I miss you! glad you are doing well
Wow. I remember that too. A Florida memory that I haven’t thought about in a while. Miss you too, sis! I look forward to when you are able to visit.