Wissahickon Hike

 
Today was my last day in Philadelphia, and we filled it to bursting with events. In the morning, the girls participated in the state quarterfinals for Mock Trail, which is like "future lawyers of America." They won their first round, but lost the second, so they are done. Both of them are just glad it's over for the season. It takes a lot of time.

David took Marie and me just slightly north of town to Wissahickon Valley Park where we hiked 6+ miles. This was really wonderful- real trails, hills, rocks, several creeks, lots of interesting bridges, statues (of course), and historic buildings. We did most of the length of the park on one side of the creek, but there were lots of other trails. One could hike there for several days without repeating a route (although you can't camp there).

Here is one view up the creek.

And a look up at one of the soaring road bridges from a very old section of trail with a decorative rock wall.



There were a few little waterfalls. This is a pretty one.



This is the Glen Fern House, built in 1747.



At one of the road crossings, the trail goes through this portal and climbs up a set of winding stairs to the top of the next hill.



Sunlight on moss,



and a cardinal at the Environmental Education Center.



It was colder today, but still mighty pleasant, especially with the sun shining. As he did the other day, Dave picked us up at the end so we only had to walk one direction. He basically played chauffeur all day, but he says he doesn't mind.

After that, we all quick ate and changed and went to a wonderful concert in which Rachel sang. I'll tell you more about that another day. We are all beat, but it's been grand.

I have to leave in the morning. Sad face.

[Just a comment- this blog grew out of the times when I had to search for one tiny good thing to make each day worth continuing on. Now there are many days when the wonderfulness is pretty nearly non-stop. I can't say I mind it a bit.]

Wissahickon Valley Park, Orange Trail plus some short trails at the Environmental Center, 6+ miles

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