Volcano Hike #2

Don't worry. This hike was on a volcano that was no longer active. Cerro Chato was the name of it. Grandma watched the kids in the morning while the rest of us ventured out. To make the hike more exciting, we decided to give ourselves a time limit. Actually, that was the hotel's doing. Checkout was at noon and this was listed as a 4 hour hike. We didn't leave until about 8:45 . . . you do the math.

We were a little doubtful about the hike initially because the first mile or so was on dirt roads around the lodges farmland. When we finally arrived at the bottom of the hill though, we were quickly pleased with the interesting, challenging trail ahead. We saw quite a few beautiful flowers.

All of us were grateful for the cool mist as we ascended the densely forested mountain. I was in awe of Mindy and Lances toughness - they had MAJOR injuries in a rock climbing accident a couple years ago and Mindy's hip/leg still gives her trouble sometimes. But there were no complaints at all up the steep slopes. We made it to the top and then made the even steeper descent into the crater (remember, it was an inactive volcano so it was safe this time). I've done a lot of hikes before, but this was one of the most fun I can remember just because of the steep, crazy routes with tree roots as steps and carved out mud stairs.Once we made it down into the crater lake Matt quickly turned around and raced back to the lodge to help Grandma with checkout. The rest of us lingered and enjoyed listening to and watching the various tadpoles, frogs, and birds. Mindy took some pictures, which I'm sure turned out great. This is my favorite of mine - can you find the frog? At one point the clouds cleared enough to see the far side of the lake, but none of us caught a good picture of it. And despite being pretty hot and sweaty from the hike, none of us braved swimming in the mist covered waters. I was worried we'd be attacked by inferi if we jumped in.


On the hike down we passed several other groups. There had been no major mishaps, but sure enough at the very end of the hike I stepped wrong and slid down a muddy slope. The only injury was to my ego and my shorts, both of which have recovered completely.




After returning to the lodge (by 12:30) we cleaned up a little in the pool shower and then had lunch before heading to our next destination. The lodge and Arenal Volcano both exceeded our expectations! "Boom Boom!"