This past weekend, I celebrated Mother’s Day with my three little men out in nature. My husband wasn’t feeling well (we think he had a mild version of what P had last week) so I felt it was best to load the boys up and seek adventure. We found adventure in Auburn, California and we hiked a new-to-us trail called Hidden Falls.
Thankfully my boys are always up for a fun-filled outdoor adventure. We all were eager to get out of the house to enjoy fresh air, dirt, bugs, critters, waterfalls and more!
When we started our hike, I noticed that P’s hydration pack was very wet. I shrugged it off thinking that I must have gotten it wet when I filled their bladders. Shortly after we began our hike, I noticed that P’s hydration pack was dripping. I had the thought that I didn’t fully seal his bladder when I filled it… only to find that his entire backside was soaked through!
Somehow his bladder had a hole in it. A puncture wound. We are not sure exactly how this happened… but it was a bummer filled with tears from this little guy. I told him we would find a replacement at another time… and I would pack his water and snacks for him on this hike.
After emptying the rest of the bladder and putting the pack in the car… we finally started our hiking adventure in search of a few hidden waterfalls.
The hike from the cars to the falls (our trail) was roughly 1.75 miles. The boys did a great job hiking. Of course the majority of the hike to the falls was a downhill journey. There was a few complaints from the youngest stating that he was tired or that his legs didn’t work but we continued on… and he hiked on his own tired two feet.
When we got to the hidden falls, there was a look out point (a balcony). We spent but a few moments overlooking the falls… before the real fun and adventure began.
We found a small trail that led to the base of the falls. This was a small still stream with lots of creek pools and smooth rock to sit on and explore. Many families were here resting, playing in the water, and enjoying the cool water and shade.
The boys had a great time searching for critters, tadpoles, slimy green moss and more. It was a little boys paradise. I kept close as there was a few pools that were very deep and you also never know what wildlife could be lurking nearby ready for a snack.
For me, personally, I could have sat in that spot all day. I could have enjoyed a nice book and relaxed. It was relaxing, soothing, and a beautiful spot overlooking the Auburn countryside.
Outdoors and nature are my happy place. Seeing my boys happy, at peace, and learning (exploring) makes me happy. This was my happy Mother’s Day gift to me from the boys… even if they didn’t even know it.
These three handsome little wild monkeys are the reason I am able to celebrate Mother’s Day. They make me laugh, cry, yell, scream, and LOVE with passion. They are my tiny men who are quickly growing up before my eyes. Hiking and eagerly going on these adventures with their mama. Making me one proud woman.
Ganeeban says
You just convinced me to go out and hike there! Looks amazing, thanks for posting 🙂
Rachel says
Yes! You totally should! Free parking (a huge bonus) and lots of trails to hike, bike (we saw bikers there) and even run! 🙂
Courtney @ Don't Blink. Just Run. says
That sounds like a perfect day, with the exception of the punctured bladder. Bummer!
What a beautiful hiking spot. We took a 3 mile hike yesterday, too. It was SUCH a gorgeous day out!
Rachel says
Yes. That was a major bummer… but luckily we each had a hydration pack we could use. 🙂 Where did you hike for your 3 miler?
Courtney @ Don't Blink. Just Run. says
We hiked at Maxwell Mays Wildlife Refuge in Coventry, RI. We live only about 20-25 min from it.
Rebecca Jo says
Oh mercy… I love how you are with your boys. Taking them on hikes? The perfect childhood 🙂
Rachel says
Thanks. We love spending (as much time as possible) outdoors! 🙂
Gillian @ That's G says
My mom and I went hiking yesterday, too! Such a nice way to spend the day!
Rachel says
Yay! Fun! Where did you and your mom go hiking?
Jenn says
Which trail did you guys try? We have not taken advantage of the local trails & I’m thinking this would be a perfect Father’s Day activity with our boys (4 & almost 1 so he’ll be in the Ergo). Thanks!
Rachel says
We did the main trail at Hidden Falls Regional park… to the waterfall 🙂