As I was hiking yesterday at New Germany State Park, I heard the voice of the D.C. Metro Goddess in my head softly stating, “Doors closing” in that sing-song voice, then more forcibly, “Please stand clear of the doors!”

I looked up through the now bare branches of trees to a steel gray sky. Doors have indeed closed on the season of Fall color here in western Maryland. It was a beautiful season starting right about at the Fall Equinox in September with a few golden leaves, then reaching its pinnacle about the third week in October with reds, golds, and browns. A lovely time of year!

When Fall began, I felt the frenetic energy down in my bones! I rushed to drink it all in before the turn to the darker months of Winter. And wow, did I ever scramble to get the most out of Fall! I got out to hike at Monocacy National Battlefield, the C&O Canal, Shawnee State Park, the Appalachian Trail, Coopers Rock State Forest, New Germany State Park, and Rocky Gap State Park!

I led a “Journaling in Nature” hike for the Maryland Trail Dames. This is an event focused on being present in the forest. We hike in with our journals and supplies, then find a spot to sit for about an hour to tap into our senses and journal. Many of our Dames don’t feel comfortable sitting in the woods alone to journal, so this gives them the opportunity. It is a great experience and was one of my favorite hikes this season!

Below are a few photos from other hikes. I was blessed to be able to take in all this beauty before the temperatures dipped, the winds kicked up, and the rain fell.

Now I hear the Cailleach calling!

November brings a different vibe into my life. One of burrowing down into the coziness of indoor life. Oh, I still go hiking, but afterwards I look forward to a hot shower, a hot chocolate with a dash of Kahlua, and cozy cuddles with my kitties on the couch! 😻

One of my favorite Winter activities is to bring out my hiking maps and use the time to dream up and plan next Summer’s adventures! I have a lot to look forward to!

For now, the Metro Goddess is correct, the doors are closing or possibly have closed…I wonder where that next stop will be? 🥾🥾

Any suggestions for hikes in western Maryland…or within 100 miles of Cumberland, MD? Let me know in the comments! Always up for a new adventure!

Hike on!