It came, swift and sudden. One minute we were steadily climbing, keeping a watchful eye on the nearby storm clouds, flashing with lightening. The next, the storm had broken, fiercely pelting us with pea-sized hail. Caught on an open hill with no trees nearby, we were uncertain what to do. Eventually we ran, ducking, trying to avoid the stinging pellets, to the nearest scruffy trees and bushes, about 100 yards away. Making use of the slightly improved shelter they offered, we waited for the storm to pass.
Cold and wet, with red welts on arms and necks we contemplated turning back, but not for long. The spirit of adventure was too strong, at least in the youth with us, and the parents were willing to carry on for their sakes.
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| (only picture I got of the actual hail...) |
It was worth it.
The cave...
The view from the cave...
The American Indian paintings in the cave...
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| (What do they look like to you?) |
I love hiking. And this time, the hail just made it that much more enjoyable.
