I was on my way through the forest on old logging roads when I met the limitations of my rental car. Something I didn't plan for was snow on the ground in early May. The patch of snow that lay ahead of me wasn't that intimidating, but after checking it out, I decided to give it a go. Unfortunately, I didn't make it very far before getting stuck. This was a major roadblock for me getting to Pinard Falls that morning.
I eventually got myself out of the snow and was going to do my best to figure out what do next. Throughout the National Forest road system, you come across old rock quarries where they harvested the material to make the roads. In later years, the quarries became safe places for people to target practice and better their aim. I pulled over to check one out and was surprised by how many bullets I found alongside spent casings.
As I was randomly driving around, I came across a beautiful little scene. There on the side of the road stood a lonely little flower illuminated by a single sunbeam piercing through the forest canopy. I jumped out to grab a photo, but couldn't help wonder how many people had seen that sunlight flower. Or perhaps it was only in that moment that the conditions were perfect for the sun to make its way through the trees and that it might not happen ever again. It's fun to think about these little moments.
As I continued down this random road, I couldn't believe it; I accidentally found a snow-free alternative route to the falls. I was in utter shock and had to take a double take to the lonely sign guiding me on my way.
The trail to the falls was covered by 2-3 inches of mud, so yeah, that was fun, but I made my way. I was the only person there for most the morning, a few groups came through, but didn't stay for long. It was as if all they needed to do was briefly see the falls and that would be enough to let them turn around and head out. Maybe they were on a tight schedule, and couldn't stay long, but I too eventually ran out of time and had to leave. I would have had more time if it wasn't for that snow, but then I might not have seen that beautiful little flower.
Photography Date: 5-7-17
Writing Date: 3-20-18
