(Re)Creating Memories in Nature

I remember my parents taking my siblings and I to Shenandoah National Park when I was very young. I was so young that I remember only a little from our visit but I distinctly recall my feelings from our trip. I remember feelings of wonder as we hiked down to a waterfall and trepidation as I looked down at the running water from the trail. I recall the strength of my father’s hand that I held as we descended the trail to the base of the waterfall. I know we saw a deer and I remember seeing a park ranger and thinking that must be the coolest job in the world. Hanging out all day in a national park, what could be better? Most of all I remember loving the experience of being in the “wild” and the feeling that, at any moment, we might encounter something new and exciting.

I wanted some of those same memories for my children. This past spring break I set out to recreate those memories, so to speak, for myself and let those memories take root in my own children. We packed up the van and headed out for a three day, two night stay on the edge of the Shenandoah National Park in a rustic cabin. I had two short hikes planned for my crew and both hikes involved waterfalls.

The first night brought an intense thunderstorm and downpour which was fine with me because I knew this meant the waterfalls would be gushing as opposed to their more usual modest outpouring. The waterfalls did not disappoint.

We hiked the very forgiving Dark Hollow Falls Trail and witnessed the early spring rush of water pouring down the falls. It was a beautifully sunny, but cool day and the whole family really enjoyed the hike. The trail is very well maintained and even our four year old handled it with ease. We had snacks near the viewing area and enjoyed the scenery. The kids got wet standing in the mist near the base of the falls as Cristina and I took pictures. I hope my children will remember that hike throughout their life as I have.

The next day we hiked down a more difficult, but not too difficult for a four year old, South River Falls Trail from Skyline Drive. The hike was longer than the day before but we were, again, rewarded with an awesome view of a waterfall. This trail is also very popular and had it’s share of hikers on the trail with us that day but we still had periods of time when it was just my family and I walking through the woods creating memories that will hopefully last a lifetime. I hope my children will associate our national parks and “wild” areas as places of rest and relaxation and ways to recharge their batteries as I have throughout my life.