Hot, Humid, and Hiking

Hike: Red Trail Swayback Bridge Trail of Legends, Wetumpka, AL, Wed., 08/03/2011, 06:25-09:45
Distance: 7 miles  Rating: 5/5
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate due to heat and humidity
Conditions: Hot (upper 80's to low 90's) and extremely humid.  Alabama Dept of Public Health issued a Heat Advisory for today.  Heat Index expected to be at or above 105 DegF.

Thoughts/Observations:

Numerous passerines (serenaded throughout the hike) as well as the ubiquitous summer-time bug.  I think I broke a spiderweb at least every 100' or so.  That's the price for being a "trail blazer" first thing in the morning!  Cicada (or locust) were loud in certain sections of the forest.

Trails were damp but only a few muddy spots required negotiation.

Forest was very peaceful.  Enjoyed the solitude.  (Met one mountain biker w/ his chocolate lab and one trail runner.)  Scripture on my mind this morning:  but whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst. But the water that I shall give him will become in him a fountain of water springing up into everlasting life." John 4:14 (NKJV)  And "YOUR Name" by Phillips, Craig & Dean kept repeating in my spirit:

As morning dawns and evening fades
You inspire songs of praise
That rise from earth to touch Your heart
And glorify Your name

Your name
Is a strong and mighty tower
Your name
Is a shelter like no other
Your name
Let the nations sing it louder
'Cause nothing has the power to save
But Your name

Jesus, in Your name we pray
Come and fill our hearts today
Lord, give us strength to live for You
And glorify Your name