Parque La Estanzuela

Another weekend, another adventure. This past weekend we returned to a park that we had been to before but with the intention of hiking much further back beyond the paved path. When you get to the turn around point on this gentle walk along a river, you can opt to continue farther up. The path changes dramatically, it goes from a easy stroll to a 45 degree climb. The worst part of this first section is that it is still paved with bricks so there is very little traction. My dad actually tried to walk up a bit with us the last time we were there, but being in boat shoes he was literally sliding backwards faster than he could go up. The boys were trying to push Grandpa up the hill, it was quite comical! But this time we pushed on and were truly rewarded! At the first resting point we were out on a precipice over a big valley. What a view! Then we came to a little pool where we meet some other Americans. We enjoyed chatting with them and cooling off in the water. The boys had already put their shoes back on when someone suggested they jump off the waterfall into the pool below. Well of course they took that challenge, shoes and all!

It was a beautiful, clear stream and a gorgeous day so we continued on our way after the boys' swim. We came to another amazingly beautiful waterfall. We climbed up to the top and found that the water was actually coming up out of the ground. We each took turns drinking from the water - unbelievably pure and crisp. What a treat! Then we turned around and headed back out. It was a great hike and we had a wonderful time!