Monday, February 17th, 2003
Went on a great hike Sunday at Devil’s Den (arkansas.com). The temp was in the lower-mid 20s all day, and it was spitting snow the entire time, which means the trails were all but vacant. There are some amazing vistas around this popular state park. The elevation isn’t much to speak of at around 1700 ft., but it can surprise you with beautiful bluffs and plenty of critters. I took a few pictures, but it was overcast and I still had Velvia (50 ASA) in my camera (and no tripod); I’ll link some pics soon.
I did get to see an unusual weather-y phenomenon: On one bluff, moist red clay had been “whipped” by the wind into hundreds of little frozen needles. Each needle was “topped” with little frosty Q-tip.
I also enjoyed some tasty hot chocolate via my great little alcohol stove (REI.com) (hey, any excuse for testing gear, right?). For only $30, it works well and is virtually silent, so it doesn’t sound like you’re warming up the Batmobile just to boil water.
All-in-all, it was a fine day to be in the woods. With all of the buzzing and whiring things in my life, it’s nice to experience real quiet.