Exploring a State Park

The climb down made the climb back up worth the trip

Last fall I was hiking around a state park in Missouri. The area was still green and teeming with life.

The trail down to a waterfall was about a mile and treacherous. I’ve been disappointed before on these trips to waterfalls. I had to work around and over boulders as I descended into the forest. I thought this had better be worth it. I laughed at the idea of such arrogance. What am I going to do about it, right?

Sometimes, at this time of year, streams dry up, and there is only a trickle where a waterfall should be.

Even after getting to the bottom, I had to balance on rocks and walk up the middle of the stream to see the best part of the stream. I was happy I had my walking sticks. Getting wet would make the steep climb back even more difficult.

I was pleasantly surprised when I reached the stream at the bottom. It was running strong. It was not exactly what I pictured as a waterfall, but it was a rushing stream in the wilderness and was spectacular. Moss covered most of the rocks, creating a green wonderland.

I sat by the stream for some time, soaking in the majesty of it all. The sound of the water drowned out any other thoughts I could have had.

I refilled my water bottle with the spring water and took a long drink. It’s probably more pure than what I started with that day. I washed my face with the spring water as well.

In many ways, going down a steep incline is harder than going up. While going down, you have to pay more attention to where you step, or what you grab hold of for balance. The trip down had been just steep enough that you had to pay a lot of attention.

Soon I would start the journey back to the top.

The scene filled my senses. I felt the power and presence of God. I was renewed.

The climb back up seemed almost effortless.