Hitting the trails again

After a few days of taking it pretty easy on our vacation, it was time to work out our bodies again. We hit the trails for a little hiking. The trail we did was recommended by one of our new neighbors. The Bald Mountain\Artists Bluff trail is right off I93 at the north side of Franconia Notch. So on the way to the trail, we got some lovely scenic views.

Franconia Notch

We're getting revved up for our hike.

The Beautiful Notch

And this is the little peak we were about to hike.

We hoped that we could get Dylan to do this hike solo. After carrying him up Welch\Dickey a few days prior, I decided it is definitely time to get his hiking legs in better shape. Not too long after setting out, I almost stepped on this little guy:

Seeing wildlife is always a treat...even (maybe especially when) it's a snake!

Dylan did a great job hiking with no complaints until we go to the first scenic outlook. He wanted to stop for a snack and we wanted him to stay happy so we did. Only problem, Cade had fallen asleep (just after taking the below picture) so I spent our "rest time" standing and pacing with the baby backpack on.

Cannon Mountain Ski Runs Behind Us

Snack Time!

Looking South Into the Notch

After our snack we kept on towards the Artist's Bluff. Mike and I took a few detours to climb up some big rocks (tricky with a back pack but still made it happen). The we were treated with lovely views of the lake and mountains from the rocks of the bluff.

Help! We're falling!

Then, as we traditionally do, we went out for ice cream. Our local stand is now closed on weekdays (post Labor Day), so we stopped in Lincoln on the way home at Udderly Delicious.

Cade was mesmorized by the flags waving outside the door.
He made sure that everyone else saw them.

HUGE sunflowers growing outside.

Oh, and yes, Dylan did hike the WHOLE thing all by himself! He was definitely growing tired\impatient while on the path back to the parking area but we used the bribe of ice cream to keep him going. He definitely earned it. I was so proud of him for hiking that mountain all by himself and made sure he knew he should be proud of himself too. That is quite a distance on legs his size!