#hike22 - Barton Creek Greenbelt
Location: Barton Creek Greenbelt - Austin, TX
Trails: From the MoPac to Hill of Life & back
It was a humid hike, but so refreshing regardless.Β I started out counting dogs, people, and bikes but gave up after I reached the Hill of Life.Β I started at about 7:15 am, with few people and quickly ran into everyone after 8 am at my midpoint.Β It was a popular trail, but everyone was very friendly and smiley and I just enjoyed it.Β I got a good feeling on this trail - something I've been longing for - and I am doing my best to be that outgoing-smiley person wherever I go.Β I know, not every day/every hike/every run/etc is easy or fun, but interacting with people in a positive way can be as simple as smiling, waving, nodding, or saying hello.
The trail was downhill at first, eventually followed along at creek level, then transitioned into the Hill of Life - which was a LONG, steep hill that should have been called the Hill of Death.Β Many people were using the hill for training - either walking, running, or biking - I was simply trying not to pass out.Β My legs went jelly about 3/4 of the way up, so I went back down.Β On my hike back to my car, I followed a family that was out for a hike together.Β Seeing an entire family doing something together was encouraging and something I hope to see more frequently.
I was thankful for shade, a partly cloudy sky, and the humidity melting away as the morning moved forward.Β If you're in Austin, check out the various parts of the greenbelt and happy trails.
Recap: Plenty of cute and REALLY cute dogs, nice people, and plenty of shade.