Date: March 12, 2017 Time: 9:10 AM

Place: Cooper Lake State Park - South Sulphur Unit

Distance: 4.9 miles

I left a little later than I wanted this morning, but the drive went quickly. I was flying solo again today, so I was singing and dancing along embarrassingly to all my favorite jams. I made it there in less time than expected, as no one is out on a Sunday morning. I saw the sun peek through the clouds on the horizon, and knew it was going to be a good day.

I started off with a stop to Gulls Bluff Day Use Area to see the lake and look at a map. From there, I found parking and made my way to the Coyote Run trail head.It started off flat, with small trees and quickly wound back into the forest. Old trees, ravines, new trees, quite a mix. The air smelled of spring soil - if that makes sense. It rained all weekend, so it smelled of spring soil and that smell after the rain. The tiny leaves were opening, flowers in bloom, and birds very active. I saw two whitetail deer as well as some squirrels. This trail reminded me of trails in Ozarks or in Michigan - I didn't feel like I was in Texas at all. The sky was cloudy and the wind cold at the beginning, but the sun came out and it completely changed the way the forest looked. Light beaming down through leaves and flowers and casting shadows made all the difference. I went from extremely relaxed and peaceful to even more so but also giddy with joy. It was one of the best mental experiences of my hikes so far. Here are a few photos! Happy hiking!