This is my first walk after coming off the Wonderland Trail around Mount Rainier. It is pretty flat, paved, and just what I needed. Even the weather cooperated by providing sunshine while minimizing the heat. Couldn't have asked for a better day with a no better friend.
We started near the closed park office in the middle of the park and went west. First thing we saw was a wooden bridge resembling those from Madison County that just begged us for a visit. It was sturdy as we walked back through time and back again at the other end. It is one of several in the park, but the only one we experienced.Sedgwick County Park is customizable to the hiker, walker, or biker. There is a greater loop that goes outside of the designated park and encircles the zoo property, the park, and the open area west of the Big Slough. However, if one just wants to see a portion of the park, there are many smaller loops, particularly around every lake. We decided to walk the perimeter of the park property.
Not surprising, there were a few caches along our route. The first we couldn't find, but since then we found more than we didn't. One great aspect of geocaching is how it can enhance an outing by giving us direction. Also, a couple of times, I couldn't realize how fast we were moving as we raced from cache to cache. My favorite cache location is at a two trunk V-Shaped Tree that is unusual, fascinating, and beautiful. Just never know what one will find while out walking.
An exercise course is at the south east corner of the park. Here the path is marked by trimmed grass instead of pavement with exercise stations. It doesn't appear to be used often and we didn't see anybody running through there in our brief passing. I hope it doesn't go by the way of the dinosaur.The east side is photogenic. At the southern, 13th Street Entrance, there is a windmill spinning in the open prairie under puffy clouds. Along the big lake, there is a wooden dock waiting for hanging feet. Then, just when inspiration is needed, 'Push Yourself' graffitied on a bench. Perfect timing as we were about halfway through our walk.
We turn the corner and walk the Northern stretch. Around Horseshoe Lake, we notice fishermen casting their lines. It is peaceful and quiet and perfect. I wish I had the patience to fish. Not sure I am patient enough to fully enjoy the hobby, as I can't seem to stay still even when I sleep.
In the Northwest corner, we found ourselves in an open field. There is a mound in the distance and we suspect during the snowy times, the mounds makes for great sledding. Ah, the memories from my youth and how I had so much fun. But those days are long long gone, just hope next year's snow provides better memories for a youngster.
We pass a structure with two benches that face each other. An interesting place to rest, it stands out in the prairie. We didn't stop because we were so close to finishing the loop. But if we had our lunch, then this place would be perfect. Maybe a place to reflect on the beautiful day along a wonderful trail. Couldn't have asked for anything more.We walked 4.18 miles over 2 hours and 16 minutes averaging 32 minutes : 40 seconds per mile while also caching.
Total Blogged miles: 217.35 miles.
No comments:
Post a Comment