I love to hike. I love being outside and I especially love being in the woods. Add a waterfall and it is Utopia. Today, we ventured to Dupont Forest in North Carolina.  I've been here a couple times before, but forgot what a great park this is. 

The girls are such good hikers, especially Stella. I am constantly reminded of how lucky I am to have such a wonderful pooch like Stel. Luna is the baby and she is loved very much, but Stella has a special place in my heart.

 

I'm no botanist, that's for sure. I take pictures of plants I find visually appealing or interesting. This particular one was everywhere blooming. Pinks and whites. Very pretty against the greens of the forest.

What I love about Dupont is it's truly a family place. The trails are wide and graveled. You can choose short hikes and still get great rewards, or choose longer, more difficult hikes, with even greater rewards. None of the hikes can truly be classified as "difficult". It's a nice opportunity for those who may not be "hikers" to get out with the kids and still enjoy "hiking". 

The view from the bridge alone is gorgeous. 

We spent quite a bit of time sitting in this very spot. The mist coming from the falls was so pleasant after a humid hike uphill. 

Stella was enjoying a few minutes of cool-off time. Amazing that even at 10 years old, she still loves a good workout. 

Luna, not one to "go-with-the-flow" was slightly stressed out by the whole situation, but tolerated it since Mom and Stella were present. 

Headed down the hill, the girls are tired and ready for home. 

 I am looking a sight, but was thoroughly enjoying myself. 

 My favorite part... sleepy girls. We all got a good workout in, got to enjoy the woods for a few hours and got to interact with people who love this beautiful world as much as we do. What a great day at Dupont.