Stunning photos Galen! Especially the 3rd one with the trees contrasting colour to the sky.
I could let myself loose in a place this beautiful.
It's great when you take the time to enjoy and appreciate these little things.
Shame you experienced such kind of moisture on your feet, but I'm sure they're dry and warm now.
BTW, my brain and eyes weren't coordinating when I read the first line, so I saw:
"I WAS hiking blah, blah, blah, I wasN'T blah, blah, blah..."
However, the story turned out different but exceptionally beautiful, as I do love outdoor spaces with greenery, water, and lots of wood!
A weekend well spent:)