First Trip to Oakhurst

On our return home from Silver Springs State Park, we decided to continue our adventure by visiting Oakhurst Forest Preserve, the closest nature preserve to our home. By the time we arrived, clouds had gathered overhead and were threatening us with droplets of rain. The temperature had also dropped, so it was time to put on our coats.

The first thing that caught the kids attention was the large sled hill, which they immediately wanted to climb up. Fearing that running up and down the hill would exhausted them too soon, I suggested we first go explore. There was a trail that was leading into the expanse of trees, and I suggested we see where it lead.  On the preserve map, this is known as the woodland trail, and is a little under a mile long.

The moment we entered the trail, there was a noise in the trees and something moved. Then I spotted the dear, about 75 feet away. The deer had also spotted us, and just stood there, motionless, scrutinizing our every move. I helped the girls locate the deer, lifting Scarlett up so she could get a better view. We continued on our way, but were soon stopped in our tracks when the trail became muddy. No sure how to circumnavigate the mud without incident, we turned back. We stopped again to admire the deer, only to having another coming prancing through. 

In addition to the woods, Oakhurst forest preserve is home to the 55 acre Lake Patterson. I consulted with the girls, and we opted not to walk the trail around the lake this time; we will return on another day with our bikes and cycle around. 

So instead, we charged up the hill. Well, I walked, the girls charged. On making it to the top, you are rewarded with a picturesque view of the entire forest preserve. I took photos of the girls before they released more energy by running down to the bottom. Scarlett wanted to roll, but I nixed that idea. 

Most likely, we will be visiting the preserve a few times this year, to hike the trails, to cycle, and yes, to run up and down the hill.