We started out from the townhouse in shorts. It was sunny but you could tell that the weather was changing. The forecast indicated that there was a 70% chance of shower late in the day. Seems the forecasters here are no different than the forecasters back home......
It was a terrific hike, although Dana called it a forced march/jog. 10 miles in 3 1/2 hours. 5 miles up, 5 miles down. The elevation change was gradual except for the last mile when the trail went up sharply. On the way up to the falls we had to cross the creek 8 times. We carried our hiking poles and used them to balance ourselves as we rock hopped on the crossings. We did manage to cross all 8 crossings with mostly dry feet. Similar story on the way down.
As we climbed the trail to the falls the wind picked up and the clouds thickened. We started to feel a few drops of rain. There was no question of turning back before we got to Seven Falls. Suddenly we were at the falls. By this time the rain had started. I took out the camera. Click, click, click. Okay, got the t-shirt, got the pictures. We're out of here. We turned around on the trail only to be met with a stiff head wind. Oh, boy, this should be fun. 5 miles into the rain and wind.
The rain picked up. The temperature seemed to drop a couple of degrees. As soon as we got into the valley of the canyon we were somewhat sheltered from the wind, which was a relief. Then the rain stopped. We were within 2 miles of the trail head when all hell broke loose. The wind whipped up and the rain came down in sheets. Plus, it was COLD! While Dana was smart enough to pack her water proof jacket for the hike, Barry had only his long sleeve hiking shirt. Dana had a space blanket in her pack and Barry took it and wrapped it around his upper torso to reduce heat loss in his core. We jogged most of the last 2 miles, just to stay warm.
Back at the townhouse we shed soaking wet clothing in exchange for dry warm clothes. Hot showers, hot tea, hot chocolate and lunch in that order. All in all, quite the morning.
After a quiet afternoon watching Olympic action on free TV, we found a terrific pizzeria not far from our townhouse. $2 Pabst long necks for Barry and a nice red wine for Dana. Very satisfying!
I have included a couple of pictures of the Seven Falls. It was really worth the hike. I also included a sign that was posted at the trailhead.
Awesome day!
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