Here's a photo of a swimming hole that I sometimes frequent. It is in Huntington, VT, and is a long river that flows down a hill. There are tons of different places to swim, and even one notorious spot (the gorge) where many people die each year from jumping in. Eeeek! I actually never had much respect for river swimming til this summer (mostly because the tall trees at Huntington Gorge block out all the sun and the river is FREEZING) but I my goal this summer was to be as outdoorsy and adventurous as possible, since I knew I was moving to Chicago, where there is a lack of forests and swimming holes. So even though it was freezing, I at least got into the river, and one time even trekked upstream over beautifully carved out rocks to explore a small cave and sit under a waterfall. It was probably one of the coolest experiences of my life.
Anyways, here's the photo:
One major problem with Chicago is getting out of it to find some nature. It's not impossible, but it takes some effort/time and generally a car. One major problem with being from Vermont, is that it's just real purdy there, and most places will pale in comparison, at least in terms of nature-based aesthetics. I try to just enjoy the things that are special about cities when I am in the city, and always have some plan for the next time I will get to experience some nature. That way when I feel over-urbanized, I can at least see my way through to my next nature-based relaxation. There are good state parks that are day-trip worthy. Starved Rock is only about 90 minutes drive (http://www.starvedrockstatepark.org/).
ReplyDeleteDitto Alex. Funny enough, I only learned that I love camping since moving to Chicago (and camping in Zion and somewhere in the middle of Wisconsin). But I too miss my swimming holes. The lake is no substitute at all for secluded green places with trees and falls.
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