Stony Brook State Park

This year, our 8th wedding anniversary day trip took us to Stony Brook State Park. Located in Dansville, NY, this park is a great spot for nature walks, swimming, picnics or camping (if that's your thing). We spent a gorgeous Saturday afternoon hiking the (rather steep) forest trail, up above the gorge. 

 

We were surrounded by tall trees and peaceful nature. Such a welcomed change of scenery. 

I couldn't wait to walk along/in the gorge. I remember camping at Stony Brook with my church youth group when I was about 11. There were sections of rock carved out and smoothed by the water that you could slide down like a water slide. There's even a large "pool" at the start where you can swim.

Each section has a waterfall (I think there are 4).

Just beautiful. 

I love our little "adventures" together. I think it only cost $7 to park for the day. There were a TON of people, kids, families and dogs - all trying to cool off and enjoy the summer weather.

Definitely a great place to get away from the hustle and bustle and breathe in God's beautiful creation. Especially with the one you love.

Grimes Glen

Part of our anniversary weekend excursion took us to Grimes Glen, a mile long creek walk with gorge walls and three waterfalls, located in Naples, NY. It was a hot sunny afternoon, which made the shallow water and shade of the trees welcome. 

We donned our water shoes (mine are the pink ones, in case you weren't sure) and headed down the stony creek. It was a lot of fun. I've always liked creeks/brooks/streams and the sound of the water. 

Portions of the glen were dirt trails with steep sides and the skinniest trees.

There were tons of stones and large rocks, and a few deceptively deep puddles. We were definitely glad we had water shoes. A few people we passed were attempting it barefoot - not the wisest idea.

The rock formations, weathered and smoothed over time were really beautiful. 

Here I am, climbing the side of the first waterfall, which was lightly trickling. The water flows more heavily at other times. 

 We continued until we reached the second waterfall with a large pool. 

Here, the water was definitely rushing and COLD. We walked all the way around the rocky perimeter and waded in the icy pool. There were a couple families and dogs enjoying the water too. 

I wanted this little cave to continue somewhere, but it didn't. Much to my disappointment. This was the end of the road for us. The third waterfall is located up above on a continued path, but the only way up there was via rope. We decided not to be that adventurous. 

I was amazed by this tree, overlooking the pool, seemingly growing on the edge of the cliff, roots exposed.

We headed back the way we came, and went a bit farther in the opposite direction, downstream. There were a few smaller "waterfalls" and open spots, in more residential areas.

Grimes Glen is a really beautiful spot to visit and walk. Perfect for a summer day when you're looking for a change of scenery and a little "adventure." Getting your feet wet is unavoidable, but the beauty and refreshment is worth it. Definitely a cool place to visit if you're ever nearby, or a fun date destination.