Little River Canyon National Preserve

I’m in love with national parks, and not just because I have the stamp book. This little preserve is the best of all worlds: great scenery, visitor programs, and an affiliation with a nearby university. The promise of an ‘easy’ half mile with a little climbing was a big fat lie, but the finale at the river’s edge was worth the steep climb down. Note to self: even when you don’t think you need water, bring water.

They marked the trail here by painting a red spot on the trees, which I tend to think of as a mark for thinning. Good reminder to check with the visitor’s center about navigation.Read more