This is a story about two friends hiking in the wilderness of Washington. It’s a classic adventure tale about exploring with good friends and the lessons that come with being out in wild places.
Lessons From the Wild
Washington State, USA - Shot on 35mm Film
The morning awakens all too soon as I roll out of bed at 6:00 a.m. With excitement and readiness, I gather my equipment for our upcoming adventure. Even though this hike is just under 40 minutes away from Seattle, it feels like a world away.
Our journey begins as we drive towards the Twin Falls trailhead. The parking lot is almost empty, with only one other car showing that it was worth it to get up early. We put our gear on and start our trek. Instantly, after stepping off the pavement, fresh water splashes on my leg as I step into a puddle created by the continuous summer rain. Everywhere I look, there is moss covering every surface. Moving forward, we find a small detour that leads us to the sound of a nearby river.
Situated in a grand valley, carved out by the strong river, this trail truly showcases the beauty of Washington. Overflowing with an abundance of foliage and water, it really doesn't disappoint. Streams wind right past us on this well-trodden trail. As you continue, the dew from the trees softly drips on your back.
From the valley floor, you climb up and down until suddenly, the waterfall gives us its first glimpse of life. Roaring with power and might, it pours thousands of gallons of water per second into the river below. The mist falls upon my sweaty body, and it feels like the perfect reward.
Amidst the calmness, the only sound is the steady footsteps, ascending with determination towards the top of the valley. Over bridges and past ledges, we explore until finally making it to the top. Above this majestic waterfall, we stand on an old wooden bridge, in awe of the pounding, crystal-clear water below. Joy overtakes us as we pause, enjoying the solitude without any other souls around.
In that moment, I felt small against that mighty waterfall. But maybe that is the lesson that the wild can teach us. We are all too obsessed with the big things, the milestones if you will, that we miss all too often the small moments. Only through immersing yourself in the moment, and being fully present can you truly appreciate the small things. Like a flower growing through the hard pavement in the city or the dew of a tree dripping, these are the small things we miss in our busy world.
Standing there in the middle of the bridge up above a giant waterfall, I truly felt immersed in that moment. Fully there. Content with where I am but ready for what’s to come. We then started our trip down, passing through the tall evergreen trees until we made it back to our car. Concluding the hike, I felt a small fire inside of me light up. A fire that yearns for these experiences with good friends in the true wilderness, where you can truly be in the moment.
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