Sizzling Brain: Two Hobbits

Embarking on a mid-March trek along the Rattlesnake Swamp Trail, my dear friend and I agreed, we felt like two modern day hobbits ambling along the dangerous route to Mordor. Adorned in matching black hiking attire, our figures bobbed as feet hastily dodged shards of jagged rock protruding from the moss covered trail. The hike quickly intensified as the trail slope increased dramatically. We soon found ourselves scrambling among immense boulders that managed to both distinguish and obstruct the formidable path at the same time. As we ascended the trail, we cautiously observed our surroundings, keeping a lookout for any rattlesnakes lurking between the rocks. As if the difficult terrain were not enough, the risk of a rattlesnake encounter also loomed in our minds. The treachery of the escapade only seemed to intensify further once the Rattlesnake Swamp Trail merged with the rugged Appalachian Trail at the edge of a steep cliff.

"Imagine a serious hiker with a fifty pound pack trying to hike this," my travel companion declared. We meandered along an uneven path of exposed bedrock, imagining our deaths tripping and rolling off the side of the cliff. Despite the obvious danger, we couldn't help but admire the beautiful view daring us to edge closer to the ledge for a better look. Several birds of prey coasted overhead, garnering an even more impressive view of the landscape. Envious of their flight capabilities, we carried onward across uneven footing.

After a three and a half hour hike we returned to the car with no broken ankles, not a single rattlesnake siting, and a newfound appreciation for the dedicated hikers that spend days, weeks, or even months hiking along paths similar to the one we navigated that tepid day in March.