Trail trial

Sad to say, back in August hurricane Irene wreaked destruction along one of our favourite walks at Five Rivers, the Vlomankill Trail.  The trail was closed for a long time while fallen trunks and branches were removed and repairs made to the banks of the creek.  The Man and I visited yesterday, and it was almost like walking a completely new route. 
For one thing, the bridge we usually cross near the start has completely gone, so the hike has to be undertaken in reverse.  Where once there was close forest, now there are surprising patches of light and open space.  Although extensive work has gone on, there are still many fallen trees.  The banks of the Vlomankill itself have had to be shored up with stones.

It will all repair itself over time - Nature has a way of reclaiming the land here given the slightest chance.  But for now it feels like visiting an old friend who has suffered a bad accident and who, despite being on the mend, is still looking a bit the worse for wear.