Hocking Hills State Park, OH

It was meant to be that I was able to hook up with artist, friend, Barbara. Who lives in Ashland, Ohio. I was able to reach her in time, as I was passing through, to get towards Columbus. We had a coffee, and lunch, and took a couple hours to catch up with old times. She's going through a very challenging time, and I am glad that I was able to hear her, and support her. And in spite of it, she managed to show a positive demeanor, and with a bright smile. She is lovely. I'm so glad that I was able to see her. During our conversation, she told me about Hocking Hills State Park. Even though it was in a slightly eastern, yet southern direction, I decided to take her up on her advice to go there. I'm at the state campground, and decided to purchase electric, because the heat is just becoming more, and more oppressive. Yes, even in September. It's actually cooler in AZ today. I ran the AC all night long. In the morning I took the Old Man's Cave trail, and the view took my breath away. The photos do not do it justice. What an unexpected surprise to see these deep canyons, sandstone gorges, and caves with running creeks, and beautiful waterfalls. This area reminded me a little bit of the Catskill Mountains, the Adirondacks, Arizona, Utah cliff and rock dwellings, all tied up together. I managed over 3 miles of hiking today, along with the Upper and Lower Falls, Ash Cave, and Cedar Falls, and hundreds of steps (Oy, my knees!) I took a dip at lower falls, and my wet clothes kept me cool all day long. Im totally exhausted in 90 degree weather. However the gorge and the shaded areas were much cooler then up on the rim. What a magical and beautiful place, and an unexpected experience!

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