Write-up: Mary Pat Connors
Leader: Mary Pat Connors
Co-Leader: Sarah Cotter

Once again Gleasmans Falls beckoned to 14 Tramps. It has been visited several times but never fails to delight. This hike offers: a very doable distance, 6 miles; a very slightly rolling trail mostly lined with sand and pine needles (well the usual mud also); and a beautiful destination on the Independence River… a nearly perfect hike.

It is an adventure merely arriving at the trailhead. About 5 miles on a narrow dirt road into the Independence River wilderness led many to wonder if the leader knew where she was going.

The sky was overcast, the day cool. The forecast had threatened rain but we dodged the few raindrops and managed to stay dry. The ferns had unfurled, their Spring green lush. The falls were full and fast-moving, with quite lovely wild azaleas by the side. The lush pink lady’s-slippers were a sight to see. The black flies only seemed to bother us while we were sitting still trying to eat our lunch.

 
Mike Huss commented that it was the sign of an experienced leader when the post-hike pub was already chosen before the hike. And yes we had “Boondocks” in mind before we got started.

Sarah almost left her pants at the bar, Carolyn said “what a tramp!” Inside Tramp humor.

As usual, so much fun.

These and more photos may be viewed in a larger format at:

June 2017