Pocahantas State Park-Co-op Trail

(See park fee below.) Join us for a lakeside fall hike on the Co-Op Trail at Pocahontas State Park, Virginia's largest state park. We'll meet at the Swift Creek Lake boat launch; the trailhead is just across the bridge from the launch. This is a hiking-only trail, so we won't have to worry about mountain bikers zipping by. It follows the north shore of Swift Creek Lake through wetlands and old-growth forest, with chances to spot wildlife, and there are benches with lake views along the way. We'll walk out, do a short loop at the far end, and return the way we came, about 4.2 miles total with only 144 feet of elevation change. Expect tree roots on the path and possibly some mud, so wear shoes with good grip that you don't mind getting dirty.
Photography focus: The lake is the star here. Look for reflections on calm water, especially in the softer morning light, and use trees and branches along the shore to frame your lake views. The bridge near the boat launch is a good place to watch for birds and other wildlife, so keep an eye out for herons, turtles, and waterfowl. Long lenses are useful if you have them, but don't forget to look down: October brings fallen leaves, mushrooms, moss, and twisting roots that make great close-up subjects. On a phone, try tapping to focus on a leaf or mushroom up close, or use portrait mode to blur the background.
Bring a camera (your phone's camera works fine), a water bottle, hat, and maybe bug spray. Parking is $10 per vehicle on an October Sunday; seniors may want to look into the $40 annual pass. All experience levels are welcome, and we'll stop often to shoot, so the pace will be relaxed.

Optional lunch afterward at a nearby restaurant, TBD.