Icy Swim

Mia and I like to explore our area during the summer. We take hikes and search out waterfalls and covered bridges and quaint towns. Yesterday, we decided to return to Hickory Run State Park for an icy swim by Hawk Falls. (Our family visited the Hawk Falls Trail earlier in the month and really enjoyed ourselves.) Mia and I hiked through the lace rhododendrons and choruses of singing birds and slithering snakes to make our way along the river to wade in thigh deep. The plan was to plunge into the deep pool at the base but things did not go to plan. We tried but it was too cold for us. Others around us had the tenacity it takes to jump in but the icy water pushed my limits and would probably even challenge a polar bear.

Unfortunately, the throngs that visit the space to wade and/or swim also leave the telltale signs of their visit like water bottles, various garments and trash behind. It seems others are too busy to respect or value the beauty of such a peaceful place which is both sad and disappointing. You’d think the icy water and shear tranquility alone would be enough for revelers to not sully a place but people will be people. Mia and I packed up our things and walked up the stream to a quiet spot to enjoy a light snack before returning home. We sat, listening to the flowing water and the birds and the snakes. We sat, and were grateful there are special places like this where we live and sent up a prayer that others might be too.