I’m out near Charlottesville, cabin “camping” with most of my family (the 11YO is at a Girl Scouts event). This morning we got up early and drove out to Montebello in order to beat the crowds at Crabtree Falls. This trail is in the George Washington National Forest and wanders up to the top of what is supposed to be the tallest cascading waterfall east of the Mississippi River.
I loved this hike, switching back and climbing steps just over a thousand feet to the top with gorgeous views along the way. But it was meaningful to me for more than only the time spent with family outdoors.
I have struggled my way up this hike a few times in my youth, perceivably a drag in my fitter high school friends. I remember a trek when I needed so many breaks that my friends eventually told me we could meet at the top. I watched, sweaty and humiliated, as they disappeared into the distance.
That was terrible behavior on their part in hindsight, but now that I am more active I wanted to try this trail expecting to enjoy it. And I did! The hike up (and back down) Crabtree Falls is considered a moderate hike, but was not really a challenge for me, let alone the struggle of my earlier visits. All that and getting to share it with my wife and son. What a day!
