[originally written in a paper journal, subsequently published on my older site. Current (2014) commentary in [italics] ]
I went all the way up Indian River Trail to the falls today. It was raining lightly the entire way. This is the longest hike distance-wise for me so far this summer. However, it only took me about 3.5 hours round trip. My feet and legs feel the distance though. I wore my hiking boots for the first time this summer. They managed to keep my feet dry for a good portion of the way up, though on the way back water was very prevalent inside the boots. I guess the problem with “water proof” boots is that they are not super good at keeping the water out, but they seem to be pretty effective at keeping it in. I passed a guy who apparently made it to the falls, and he was wearing sandals. I think his feet were drier than mine, though perhaps not as warm.
It seems like it would be possible to design the molecular equivalent of a fish trap for water. A fabric which allows water to freely pass through in one direction, but not pass through at all in the other direction. I suppose if I could manage to do this, I would be set for life.
The more I think about it, the more it seems like some sort of moccasins would be the way to go for comfort and a more complete experience. Of course many things seem like a good idea until they are actually tried.
I saw a red-headed woodpecker [Red-breasted Sapsucker] today. It is only the second time I remember seeing one. It appears that perhaps someone is living where I had seen two folks camping previously. Either that, or there are some dedicated campers toughing out the rain.
No photos taken.