Lindsey Ceniviva Noland Trail Interaction

Our class took an adventure on the Noland Trail last week. Professor Redick guided us along initiating our senses and opening our minds to the trail’s beauty. He showed us how two different views, open and obstructed, could be of equal attractiveness. We took a close look at different types of plants along the trail, some we could smell, or even taste! We were then instructed to try and find a spot along the trail that personally interacted with us. As we broke off individually I kept my mind blank and attempted to take in all that was surrounding me. I then stumbled upon a gorgeous spot that drew me in. As I sat there, I could smell the crisp fall air and feel the cool breeze brush across my face. I felt as though it was telling me to choose it in order to capture the trial’s full magnificence. At this spot, some of the trees had fallen over into the lake with their branches bent towards the water to gain more nourishment. The leaves changed now to their bright, rich colors and blanketed the ground in a lovely fashion. The spot on the Noland Trail interacted with me in a way I had never felt before. That autumn day was the perfect time to encounter the Noland Trail and to feel the full energy of wilderness itself.