Battlecreek Falls

We took our first family hike of the season to Battlecreek Falls.  We've done this one several times and we went on a good day when the weather was somewhat cool.  There isn't any shade on this one.

Grandma came too.

Just noticed MJ in this picture. haha

And then there is the story of a boy and his beloved rock.  

Reed found this special rock on our hike and ended up carrying it halfway down the trail and giving it a name: "Chocolate" (because it looked like a Hershey bar obviously).  As noted before, Reed doesn't really like hiking.  At all.  So the fact that he found a piece of enjoyment from our adventure, made me excited.  Kevin, Mr. Follow-Nature-Rules, told Reed he wouldn't be able to take his rock home.  Reed was so, so, so sad.  He tried convincing Kevin to no avail (even my mom and I tried to plead with Kevin some).  They finally came to a negotiation.  If Reed kept his room clean for a week straight and proved he could take care of his things, then Kevin would take Reed back to the trail head and get Chocolate.  Reed was still sad (he cried the entire 30 minute drive home plus longer), but he placed Chocolate in a safe, hidden place so he could find it later.  

It took Reed 2 weeks, but he proved himself and he got his Chocolate back.  It's proudly being displayed in his room. :)

Hike Review: No shade.  Steady incline but easy enough for kids.  The waterfall and stream at the end is well worth it.