The confluence of life’s choices: Fox Creek Grotto exposes one of its many appealing features, the grotto waterfall. PHOTO BY OMAYRA ACEVEDO[/caption]

For the past several weeks, I’ve been faced with numerous challenges and almost life-altering decisions. Some of these challenges came as pleasant surprises, including reconnecting with people from my past.

Deep into the forest, I went for nearly two hours, dancing across the mountains, searching for guidance. I talked to the rocks and listened to the trees, seeking a sign to point me in the right direction.

The 3.8-mile trail at Fox Creek and Rock Creek Loop is in Allenspark, across the street from the business district on Highway 7. Dogs are welcome, but they must remain on leashes. I’m assuming the same rules apply to cats.

Though this is a popular hiking trail (generally during summer), I found tremendous solitude. I needed it. I needed to walk away from the computer. I needed to experience a deeper connection. I also needed to feel the intense drumming of my heart as I concentrated on the decisions ahead.

Fox Creek is a moderately challenging route, but mind your pace, and anyone can complete it. I recommend looking at a map beforehand and paying attention to the blending trail signs. Just like most things in life, it can get confusing if you lose track.

Throughout the hike, the creek seemed to share lullabies of hope. Roughly at the halfway point, the Fox Creek Grotto waterfall sang its powerful song, like the chaotic yet uniform sounds of an unstoppable marching band.

I watched for a while as the reflections of nature were expressed on various parts of the water. A few moments of sunshine were followed by a few moments of clouds. I felt my senses heighten with the harmony of nature.

Though my time in the woods was brief, and I didn’t make any decisions, I was able to find acceptance of my current situation. I won’t say I’m stuck in limbo, but it feels that way. I know that the best decisions are not always the easiest to make.

However, the time is soon approaching when I can’t afford to wait any longer, and I have to decide which life-altering risk I’m willing to take. If the trees, rocks, and creeks can co-exist, making it through rough winters and still find ways to create a peaceful haven, and if the clouds and the sun can find a compromise, I guess so can I.

To find out more about Fox Creek Grotto, check out the All Trails info at: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/colorado/allenspark-to-fox-creek-grotto