Precarious Path

At the southern end of Banning State Park (in the city of Sandstone, MN) is Robinson Park.  I was pooped after hiking around Banning, but I really wanted to see Wolf Creek Falls, which was closer to Robinson Park than the parking area at Banning.

This was going to be a piece of cake!  Quick walk to the falls, which was good because my dogs were howling pretty loud.  Motorcycle boots are sturdy, but definitely lack some comfort when hiking.

On the path to the falls, I came across a really, really, REALLY, tall railroad bridge spanning the Kettle River.

Near the bottom of this beautiful old trestle bridge, I saw a labyrinth of crisscrossing girders just waiting to be photographed--and today's featured image was born.  It is still a drop to the ground (or river, depending on where you're at) so I didn't venture out on the "path."

After I passed the bridge, I knew it wouldn't be long before reaching the falls.  It was very quiet and I hadn't seen anyone on this path.  Being a city girl, I was still on guard, even out in the "sticks." I was going to be happy to reach my destination.

But then, my freakishly sensitive sense of smell picked up a scent that was foreign to a forest.... corn chips.  Corn chips?  I looked all the way behind me and all the way in front of me.  Nothing and nobody.  Hmmm... the scent was fresh.  Well, that was disconcerting, to say the least.  City girl mode kicking in--walk faster and get to my destination asap!  About a "block" down the trail I confirmed my fears...

Conclusion next time...