The paved road gave way to gravel, which in turn gave way to slimy mud full of tire tracks. Small puddles lined the side of the road. This was the first time I had been exploring as a resident of Boone– I was astonished that a short mile off the road revealed such raw, woodsy terrain. I felt a bit of apprehension as my tires slid between the ridges where past cars had driven before me, but I pressed onward, determined to find somewhere neat to explore.
Before long, My friend Zack and I found ourselves near Trout Lake. I parked on the side of the road and started on byway to the trail. Fog initially obscured our view of the water, which would normally concern me– on the contrary, I couldn’t contain my excitement! I hadn’t seen fog this thick since I traveled to Portland, Maine with a few friends a year or so ago. Zack and I started our walk and enjoyed the photographic challenge afforded by the mysterious, milky haze that surrounded us.
Along our way we saw trees felled by beavers and humans alike, decomposing logs, healthy ferns, and a few dogs (along with their humans). With mud on my shoes, a dangerously full memory card, and absolutely no knowledge if the trail led in a circle, I eventually turned back to head home.
I met two friends on my way back, Alyssa and Nicole— perched on top of a rather large stump, counting rings on one of the many human-felled trees. We talked nature and photos, and by the time I had to go Alyssa had counted over 200 rings. I never followed up to see how old the tree was, but I’m sure I will find plenty of old trees to age for myself during my time in Boone.
Here I sit, mud-caked boots at my front door, preparing for classes in the morning. If you or anyone you know needs head shots, engagement photos, or wants to inquire about event coverage, don’t hesitate to shoot me an email or head over to my contact page!