Keeping with this year's theme of 'healthy living', a few weekends back, my partner-in-crime and I went hiking again. We drove about 20 minutes to reach another hiking spot called Davis Creek Regional Park in Washoe County, Nevada. We decided to go right after lunch so we can take our time and not hurry back since the sun sets early during the winter season. Just like the time we went to our last hike in Jones Creek Trail, we both haven't tried hiking in Davis Creek so we were excited. When we got to the regional park, we immediately set on the first trail we saw. It's challenging to bring a DSLR when hiking so I left Nestor at home and took the pictures from a camera phone instead. Over 5 minutes into the trail, we came at a fork in the road. It gave us options on what trail we want to take- The Discovery Trail which is about 1.7 miles or the Ophir Creek Trail which is 7.5 miles. The former offers a short trail while the latter offers a longer trail and it's going up the mountain (which means more challenge). So I guess by now you've already guessed the trail we took.
The hike up to the mountain is steep. Rocks, dried leaves, dried woods and big trees are the usual sights when coming up the mountain. The trail got steeper and slippery (if you're not wearing the right gear for hiking). There were areas where you have to be really careful to avoid falling in a bed of thorny bushes or sharp dried woods. Along the way, we even got each a sturdy stick to help us trek the trails.
Unlike our previous hike, we didn't see a soul on the way up. Even though, it's a trail made for recreation, there's still the fact that wild animals such as bears can still be seen roaming in the woods. Therefore, we made sure to be more aware of our surroundings. It's always best to be prepared. Almost 40 minutes into the hike, we decided to deviate from the trail and find a high point where we can see the freeway down below. We went over some bushes, held on to tree trunks to help us up and found rocks to balance our steps to keep us from falling. The trick is not to look down. I was able to confirm that I'm not afraid of heights but I'm afraid of falling which will either make me all bruised and battered or worst, dead. After the exhilirating climb, we finally discovered a landing.
We saw the freeway and the lake across us. For proof that I got to hike this high, I posed for the camera even though I look like I badly need a shower.
Since we want to see the entire freeway, we decided to hike way up some more. And we weren't disappointed with what greeted us.
We saw the length of the freeway and even the new freeway that's being built. It made the 1-hour climb all worth it. I know it's not as high as Mt. Everest but I'm happy with what I've accomplished. I got to conquer my fear and I know that I can do whatever it is I put my mind into. We stayed at that spot for almost 15 minutes before heading back. We replenished ourselves with water and protein to keep our energy up. I thought it won't be as challenging on the way back but apparently, I was wrong. Since the climb was steep, it gave our legs a mean workout because we need to control our every step so we won't slide down. It was still fun, nonetheless. We got to the parking lot in one piece and since it was a very good day, we decided to reward ourselves with a trip to the nearest chocolate store just along the highway. We went to Chocolate Nugget Candy Factory. The moment you step inside the store, you know you're in a candy factory.
Candies everywhere! I got overwhelmed. They also sell milkshakes, diabetic-friendly goodies and truffles. We bought some chocolates and candies not only to support local businesses but also because they look so delightful! From what I learned, Chocolate Nugget Candy Factory opened in 1984. If you're cruising along Highway 395 along Washoe County, you won't miss the building because of the giant 18-foot fiberglass statue of a goldminer kneeling on one leg and holding a nugget in his other hand just near the establishment.
All in all, it was a beautiful, fun day. I got to treat my body to an awesome workout and got to indulge my sweet tooth too. Don't you just love weekends?
Well, happy weekend everyone!
