My Sweet Sassyfras: Lusk Creek Backpacking Trip

We went on a quick backpacking trip in early November, and I'm just now getting the time to blog about it! Fall is our absolute favorite time of year to backpack. The weather is usually ideal, and it's a great chance to see the beautiful fall colors.

I love all outdoor activities, but backpacking may very well be my favorite. I get such satisfaction from carrying everything I need on my back. I also love a good physical challenge and backpacking is a pretty good workout. Most of all, I love to camp in the backcountry. It's so much better than camping at a campground!

I love the quiet and peacefulness that comes with backcountry camping. I also love seeing the beauty of natural structures that you have to walk to get to.

For this trip, we headed to the Lusk Creek Wilderness in the Shawnee National Forest. I've been to most places in the Shawnee but had never been to Lusk Creek. Andrew had planned a relatively easy 11 mile hike for us. Somehow, we timed it perfectly. We had the most perfect weather and the fall colors were definitely at their peak. On Saturday night, we camped at the Secret Canyon, surrounded by beautiful sandstone bluffs, probably one of my favorite places I've ever camped!

We were joined by our good friends and backpacking buddies, Justin and Mylisa. My sister-in-law and her husband also joined us for the first time. We had such a good time. It was truly the perfect autumn backpacking trip!

Once again, I'm reminded just how truly spectacular nature is. I'm also reminded of why I love the Shawnee so much.

Here are some pics from our trip. My friend Mylisa showed me how to take pictures in the dark by adjusting the shutter speed with a remote control. Aren't they awesome?! I especially love the pictures that she took with the tents lit up!

Enjoy!