a couple of walks in the woods

This weekend is the state park walks for the Liberty Bell Wanderers. Bonnie and I left about 8:15 and headed to the Hampton Inn in Willow Grove. Walk-central.

On the way down, we discussed which walks to do. We decided to do two easy 5K's, saving the more difficult walks for when Angel's family arrives tomorrow.

After checking in we got back in the car and headed to the Montgomery County's Norristown Farm Park. THhe event brochure describes it as "Walk on trails through a working farm that’s been in continuous use since colonial times. Some buildings date back to the 1800’s. The trail is mostly paved with minor inclines through agricultural fields and wooded areas. Trail also goes by a trout nursery and two fishing creeks."

It was paved, and the route a little difficult to follow. There were several discussions about the directions and which way to go. It went right thru the Norristown State Hospital. That was the most confusing part. But we never got lost.

This walk had things to look at—barns, houses, woods, harvesting corn, ect.—and it kept us engaged.

The bathrooms were port-o-potties in the parking lot. The second cleanest I've ever seen.  P-4.5

The second walk was at Tyler State Park in Newtown, Pa.

Leaving the parking lot the first thing we saw was pedestrian causeway which was interesting. the trial was paved, but a little boring. It was heavily forested, but the October colors get a little boring after a while. It's not a trail I'd do again.

The most exciting part for me was on the far side of the park—a covered bridge. We decided to drive there. But it was a bit of a hike from the lot, down a steep hill.

 The payoff was not the bridge, but horses! two sets of riders and their beautiful horses.

The bathroom on the trail was a comfort station. Old but really clean. Impressed thus far with state park potties. I-4.5

Driving back to the hotel, I saw a giant pumpkin. Unlike my daddy, Bonnie stopped. It was made from blow-in insulation.  The also had scarecrows of Washington crossing the Delaware, Lincoln, Babe Ruth and a couple in 18th century clothes. He was on a horse. I think she had a flag.

Tomorrow I'm going to suggest Ft. Washington State Park.  Of the two more difficult, natural trails, this one is not as strenuous, or dangerous. We are planning a 10K.

Instead of eating dinner we had popcorn at the movies. We went to see Steve Jobs.