Snakes and Stones Never Broke My Bones

It was already fall of 2020. I couldn’t stop myself from thinking about the amazing mountains of California I was lost in, the same time last year. Having been cooped up in home without travel, we decided its time to say hello to the lonely mountains from behind a mask, all credits to COVID-19.👏🏼

Upstate New York. Catskill Mountains. Hiking. The escapade which was going great with loads of oxygen and serene thoughts was interrupted by a sign – “Timber Rattlesnakes on the trail. Exercise caution”. We assumed snakes were obviously deep in the forest and we need not panic. But just into the hike, we came across a stubborn little baby snake, probably lost, refusing to move, and resting in the middle of the trail. We ran past it safely and continued the stony hike till midway, where we were warned about a 4-foot long snake right on the trail, trying to make its way into the woods. I subconsciously measured how long 4-foot would be. I lowered my head not looking at it and continued on my path. I just passed by it and heard an angry HISSSS! Nope, it was not like what they show in the movies or TV. It was LOUD and right beside me! The sound reverberated in my ears. I could feel my pounding heart fall out of my body. I ran. I ran till I knew I overran the snake in case it was following me. I had crazy experiences with snakes and amazing saviours before, but this was nothing like any of them. It was my first time that close to a snake in the wild and I survived!! Looks like I have strong bones.😻

4-hour hike. Bleeding heels. Sore body. Adventures with snakes and stones. All of this to achieve an elevation of 3140 feet and this breathtaking view! ✨💕