Marie Creek, Coeur d’Alene, Idaho
The trees know
about the winter
about the change
about the falling
about the loss
and they grow anyway
Grow anyway.
I wanted to hike with SB, a friend I hadn’t seen in a long time. She had invited me on a last-minute trip to Nelson, British Columbia, but I had to decline, so she and Biking Queen went, and I definitely felt like I missed out. This hike was supposed to be my consolation, but rising COVID-19 numbers made us postpone sharing an adventure altogether. She’s a super mom to young kids, and I have cancer – neither of us needs to risk exposure unnecessarily. I don’t know how often I’ll make that decision, so I hope the COVID rates stabilize or decline quickly.
Grow anyway.
Marie Creek Trail is one of the last hikes listed in the Appendix of 100 Hikes in the Inland Northwest. There is little to the description except for directions to the trailhead. It is a shame that this is an underrated location, but at the same time, I think that keeps it a little more special for those who have lived in the area for a long time.
The road to the trailhead is mainly well-maintained, but the last ¼ mile might make a low-clearance car bottom out. The parking lot is big and the trailhead is well-marked. The first ¾ mile is a steady climb up before you begin your trek down to traverse along the creek. It’s a straightforward trail system with easy creek crossings, beautiful bright green moss, shade, and plenty of places to stop to put up a tent or take a break.
Take a break. Grow anyway. I’m nearing my second complete month of being back in therapy. It is such hard work. I think it is easier to go about the world not overthinking about any internal workings of myself, but therapy requires the opposite. I know it won’t be this way forever, but damn.
Grow anyway. I guess.
