Hiking ABOVE Mammoth Caves

Turns out there are some beautiful hikes ABOVE the Mammoth Caves so we headed back to the National park.  Despite the 90 degree temperature and 80% humidity, we decided to check out some trails.  We knew some of the trails were along rivers so we told the boys to wear bathing suits...you know...just in case... that little plan backfired when Liam got a bit adventurous.

Generally, he's a pretty smart kid...but, the minute he saw the river he just ran ahead, not really thinking.  He ended up in that swiftly moving river with a super steep, muddy bank and could not get up.  Literally, he could barely stand and he freaked.  Karen and I started down the bank, but I quickly realized that if went down all the way, I was going to end up in the river and halfway to who knows where.  I had to stop and talk Liam back up the bank.  All three of us had to dig our knees into the mud and grab onto tall grass (and nettles - ouch!) and pull ourselves up.  We were quite a sight.  Luckily, the national park has a campground with showers which we took advantage of before we tried out a different trail.  Yep, we cannot be stopped.

The forest in this Kentucky area was hillier than we expected and we loved it.  It was beautiful and we enjoyed it, despite sweating though our clothes.

The "near death" experience had Finn proclaim at one point, "I would miss Liam if he wasn't around." And this, my friends, after spending a week in an RV is a powerful statement.  Enough to elicit this rare event:

This photo is only enhanced by Eli's photo bomb.

To be clear, though...the situation wasn't "near death."  I mean...it could have been if Liam got pulled into the river, but he didn't.  Somehow, though...Finn must have sensed we lucked out today.

Finn in deep discussion about how a hut we saw must have been used during the Civil War.  He doesn't have proof, but "he's working on that."

Liam contemplating the cheeseburger he wanted to have for lunch.  The grill was closed and he ended up getting a caesar salad.  After a morning like the one we had, you are happy with what you get.  And CROUTONS!  The kid goes nuts for croutons, go figure.

Our trip is coming to an end and everyone is sad to see it approaching.  It has lived up to every expectation - which is a rare, rare happening and (all the grown ups at least) are very grateful for every wonderful minute of this adventure.