South Mountain State Park, Summer 2013

The Friday after the 4th of July this year found me at home with all three boys and rainy weather in the offing. It had been raining quite a bit for most of a week, so everyone was kind of edgy with boredom. On a whim I decided to take everyone to South Mountain State Park. We had been in 2008 also. I figured Eli and Briggs would remember it a bit, even if Calvin didn't. Herewith some before and after pictures. In 2008 the weather had been "normal" so the river was what one might expect. The contrast with the state of the river after a month of rain was quite remarkable.

Briggs in 2008. We spent most of our time on the 2008 trip near the parking area. There is a picnic area, and the water in 2008 was pretty, perfect for exploring.

 Calvin in 2008, about 9 months old.

Eli near the falls in 2008. Notice the flow level.

 

 The falls in 2008. Pretty enough, and tame enough.

At the falls in 2013. Gush-a-licious. Sorry it's a little blurry: the spray in the air, and the general cloudiness of the area gave the camera on my phone fits.

Calvin in 2013. He hiked the whole way up to the falls, around the top and back down, in pouring rain for the last 45 minutes. He was not willing to call it a "great adventure" until long after we had gotten home! But at this point the sun had actually broken through for a few minutes; true "calm before the storm."

Briggs in 2013, about half-way up to the falls. We knew the water level was up, and got a good indication of that here. Many places we had walked around on in 2008 were completely submerged this year.

 

There is a sheer rock face along the way up to the fall. Usually it's dry; water was pouring around it this time around. Above, Eli in 2013; below in 2008.

Calvin at the falls overlook. Standing there for just a few moments led to total drenching. There was no rain at this point, but the effect of the water coming off the falls was as if it were pouring.