Laurel Falls

This is the most popular trail in the park and is usually very crowded.  I arrived very early to be the first vehicle in the parking area, and found out that even this trail can sometimes hold a little bit of wilderness.  As I was hiking to the falls and approaching 2 downed trees from a recent wind storm, out from behind one of the root balls walked a black bear, about 50 yards away.  We both stopped and looked at each other for a moment, and after he started moving off I opened my pack and pulled out my camera.  But by the time I put on the telephoto lens he was gone.  Maybe I'll get his picture next time.


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