Adam Hahn- Experience in Nature 1: Mountains

A hike through the Appalachian Mountains is an experience unequal to any other. Weaving in and out, up and down I began to feel a connection with the terrain around me. Going from the relatively flat landscape of Newport News I felt an almost Closter phobic like sensation as I was not able to see off in all directions. As we wound further the mountain, the scenery around us became more spectacular with every step we climbed. When we reached a stream we stopped to relax. The cool water of the stream was refreshing and was found not a moment to soon. As the cool early morning dew burned off I quickly began to appreciate the shade cast by the numerous tress. The afternoon sun consumed everything as far as the eye could see. While stopping for lunch we had a spectacular view that allowed us to watch a group of hawks soar above the ground, at times diving down hoping to catch itself a meal. As the afternoon wore on I was emerged in the wilderness, while just a few miles from civilization the absence of automobiles, buildings, and modern convinces was felt and appreciated. Connecting with the surrounding landscape and truly appreciating the experience could not have been possible had there been man made elements along the trail. Oblivious to the concept of time we began to head back as the sun moved off to the west. The mountains at twilight hold a certain element of mysteriousness. Rustling in a nearby bush surprised our entire group, the unidentified noise coming out of the darkness let us know our time in the forest was quickly coming to a close. Taking a break from the structure of everyday life is important for the sanity of anyone. The mountains offer a full variety of natural geography and are a great way to connect with nature.