What must have been at the dawn of peak of leaf season in Ricketts Glen we ventured north to Benton, PA, where we met up with 8 friends for an overnight hiking and camping adventure. The drive was gorgeous as was the State Park, the falls, the lake, and a relaxing time among friends. These pics aren't enhanced; the colors really were that stunning.

Someone had built a Cairn along the way, although it was more for fun- the paths along the falls are clearly marked and designed for hikers.

With lots of good places to stop and take it all in.

And the falls are always spleniferous, even after a dry summer.

That night we hung out around the campfire enjoying a smorgasboard of everything from hobo packs (tinfoil purses of veggies cooked in the coals) pasta dishes with bacon, smoked gouda cheese, minestrone, quinoa, s'mores, creme gingersnap cookies, and roasted hot dogs. We climbed into our sleeping bags (on top of a very cozy queen-size air mattress) and slept well in the fresh mountain air with full bellies and rosy cheeks.

The next morning I made coffee with an old Percolator. We built a fire, but the wood was so damp, keeping it going through breakfast was a bit of a chore. Jimmy grabbed the lid to a plastic container and began fanning the flames. That was enough to roast some sausages and provide a cheery breakfast ambience. Oh, and breakfast! Scrambled eggs, sauteed vegetables, avocado, refried beans, corn tortillas, juice, and much more...

After packing up, we headed down to the lake for one more look before heading home.

A really fun and relaxing weekend!

And a good time away with the Earth Cowboy. (Pic by scrappigeon)