September 10, 2021
Trout Creek, MI
After 5 hours in the car, Gob is ready to get out. He prances in place like a dressage horse, impatiently waiting for me to gather my multiple cameras. I know he will be disappointed that this hike is more of a leisurely half mile stroll, but the reviews made it look like he could dip his feet in the water, so maybe that will appease him. We start down the paved pathway.
In no time at all, we reach an observation deck overlooking the falls. The view it provides up and down river is breathtaking. But the actual view of the falls is underwhelming and mostly obstructed by trees.
I search frantically for where the trail continues. After all, Gob was promised (by me) that he would get to dip his toes in the rapids below. Eventually I see a small dirt trail leading past the safety fence towards the river, and we take it.
Gob is quick to dip his toes. Then his belly. He’s never had the opportunity to play in rapids like this, and he isn’t quite sure about the rocks half submerged in water. He barks at them. Then slowly stalks up to them before reaching out with a leery paw to touch them. His curiosity is not satiated. Next order of business, he sticks his entire face in the water, letting the bubbles rush over as he tries to catch them in his mouth. This continues for quite some time as I stand there laughing at him. And encouraging him to keep exploring this new environment. But mostly laughing at him. He may be a senior dog, but he is still a puppy at heart.
Once Gob has his fill of new experiences, he lets me play with my cameras. Have I waxed poetic about my waterproof camera yet? Because if not, I truly love it. One of the best gifts I have ever purchased myself. Zero regrets. And I usually regret spending money. More on this to come as I dunk my camera in as many bodies of water as I dunk my dog.
Interested in checking out this park? Find our more here!
Check out my other Michigan State Park adventures!
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