Craig Lake State Park

10-3-2021

Champion, MI

By the time we get to our trailhead, the rain has stopped. I am thankful. This hike is a long one. I tempt the weather by bringing my non-waterproof camera.

These golden leaves are spectacular against the grey-blue sky. I’m barely a mile into my hike, and already the 30 minutes driving on unimproved dirt roads seem well worth it.

We catch our first glance at the lake. Surprisingly, Gob does not try to get in. After being soggy all day, he is finally dry. He seems to be enjoying it.

I find the autumnal scenes I am wishing for. The warm colors reminding my why I love the Midwest.

We come to the river crossing. Gob once again surprises me by not wading in. I can see rain in the distance. But we are at our halfway point, so there is no turning back. We quicken our pace.

Gob finally requests a dip in the lake we have been circling. I oblige, but only for a quick stop.

The rain is getting closer. So close I can literally smell it. Gob and I exchange glances and come to the conclusion that we should try to run the remainder of the trail. Neither of us are ready for another multi-mile hike in the rain.