Great Falls National Park in VA is the park visit most frequently in VA. It reminds me a bit of home in NY. Granted the Potomac seems to be more deadly then the Delaware both rivers need to be respected, and in my opinion admired.
Yesterday was a free admissions day and I walked upstream from the Falls on the trail. I had not planned on hiking so I took the trail that I knew would be easiest, smooth and still run along side the river. Starting with the Falls here is some of my excursion.
To walk upstream to the dam I took more then leisurely stroll for about 40 minutes. This was an extremely slow stroll and can be walked easily at a much faster pace. However I took even longer on the trip back as I was a bit inspired. In the past I've dabbled in some poetry and one struck me so I sat down and wrote a (possibly badly written) poem. More pictures will follow the poem.
Peace found in a NP
by: Patricia Knack
The peace the quiet the silence
My reason to escape
This is where I find my solace
How I recharge and breath
Not truly silent are the woods
Birds chirp with crickets sing
River smoothly sailing by
Thunderous are the Falls downstream
Passing strangers on the trail
A glance, smile or nod to share
Each within our own journey
Final destination unaware
A pause beneath the trails
Watching spiders crawl
Blended roads jump
When I get to close
Breathing deeply fresh air
A weight is lifted from my shoulders
The sun peeks through tree canopies
Illuminating rocks and undergrowth
A place of peace near the city
Isolated a reminder of youth
Close by life goes on
Planes fly overhead
Nature's unsilent form of silence
Provides comfort and peace
In a world so connected and fast pace
I cherish this wonderful hideaway
Following my return to the visitor center area, The celebration started with a cake and some jazz music. It was quite peaceful to lie outside on a blanket listening to music and watching people dance.
After an hour of jazz I head to another grassy area where a screen was set up for the evening. The park showed the movie Wall-e. Previously I had not seen the full movie but it was quite good in my opinion (minus the bugs deciding I'd be a good snack). I even got to see some stars which is one thing I drastically miss living in this area.
I don't feel like either of these adequately show the size of the screen but I was impressed as it was larger then what I expected them to put together.
