Date: June 30, 2018
Location: Barton Creek Greenbelt - Austin, TX
Distance: 5.75 miles
Trails: From the MoPac to Hill of Life & back
It was a humid hike, but so refreshing regardless. I started out counting dogs, people, and bikes but gave up after I reached the Hill of Life. I started at about 7:15 am, with few people and quickly ran into everyone after 8 am at my midpoint. It was a popular trail, but everyone was very friendly and smiley and I just enjoyed it. I got a good feeling on this trail - something I've been longing for - and I am doing my best to be that outgoing-smiley person wherever I go. I know, not every day/every hike/every run/etc is easy or fun, but interacting with people in a positive way can be as simple as smiling, waving, nodding, or saying hello.
The trail was downhill at first, eventually followed along at creek level - which was bone dry, then transitioned into the Hill of Life - which was a LONG, steep hill that should have been called the Hill of Death. Many people were using the hill for training - either walking, running, or biking - I was simply trying not to pass out. My legs went jelly about 3/4 of the way up, so I went back down. On my hike back to my car, I followed a family that was out for a hike together. Seeing an entire family doing something together was encouraging and something I hope to see more frequently.
I was thankful for shade, a partly cloudy sky, and the humidity melting away as the morning moved forward. If you're in Austin, check out the various parts of the greenbelt and happy trails.
Recap: Plenty of cute and REALLY cute dogs, nice people, and plenty of shade.