It was a dreary Sunday morning in early March when we arrived at Sadlers Creek State Park. It wasn’t cold, but it wasn’t exactly warm either. With so much moisture in the air, we didn’t quite know what to expect. But being the adventurers that we are, we knew there were plenty of timeless moments waiting to be captured. With cameras in hand and backpacks in tow, we were off.
There was a peaceful eerie feeling about the park. Much of which had to do with the fog that had settled across Lake Hartwell. However, it would be this fog that would enable us to capture some amazing photos as you’ll see at the end of this post.
From the main parking lot at the park office, there is a great view of Lake Hartwell, so we decided to stroll down to the water’s edge before we tackled the park’s two hiking trails. The fog was so thick that we could barely make out the islands of trees scattered throughout the background of the lake. Meanwhile, in the foreground, others cast a nice silhouette on the water, making for some nice monochrome pictures. The longer we sat there, as if by magic, buoys and ducks began to materialize, just begging to be captured on film. And of course, we obliged!
We decided to tackle the shorter out and back trail first. This trail is mostly paved and winds through a small forest along the lake and eventually to a fishing pier. Fishing piers and fog always make for great photo opportunities, so I was psyched.
As we came upon the pier, it just so happened to be, there was a couple casting their lines and enjoying the peaceful morning. They weren’t having much luck, but we did have a nice conversation and he was kind enough to let me take a photo of him in action.
After several photos from the pier and down along a cove, we worked our way over to the second and much longer trail. This trail leads you through a mixed forest of hardwoods and pines and eventually to another section of the lake.
Along the way we came across several spider webs, glistening with dew from all the moisture in the air. There was a patch of wilting daffodils standing near the remnants of what appeared to be an old homestead and the sounds of an elusive woodpecker echoing throughout the trees, as if to say, “catch me if you can”. And we couldn’t help but notice the vibrant moss-covered stone ledge that stood out like a sore thumb along the path. Nature’s artwork can be such a treat.
Sadlers Creek State Park isn’t the largest of the state’s 47 parks and historic sites, but it does seem to have a lot to offer. Located in the upstate of South Carolina and near interstate 85, it makes it very convenient to visit. So, if you find yourself in the area, be sure to check it out.
I hope you enjoyed this short story and the photos posted below. All these pictures as well as any photo on this site are available for purchase in a variety of printing and download options. Looking for something else? Head on over to my Photo Collections where you are sure to find the perfect print to brighten up your home, office, or other place of business. Also be sure to check out my blog for more of our adventures. Thanks so much for taking a few minutes out of your day. Hope to see you out in nature soon!
