Arcadia is Rhode Island’s largest public recreation area with over 14,000 acres of land, lakes, ponds, and trails. Jim, Dennis, and I took another trip to Arcadia, which included a stop at Stepstone Falls, also part of the Arcadia. I was at first hesitant because of the difficulty of going down and coming back up again. I went halfway down with some help from Jim and Dennis while they went further down.
Stepstone Falls
We visited the falls multiple times and found them gushing with water, with the reflection of the fall foliage. This time, however, the water was trickling and the foliage color was lacking. Smaller falls grabbed my attention along with a layer of orange leaves on the ground.
As I photographed the quiet falls, several people passed on their way to or from the hiking trails. One man came with his dog on a leash and unleashed him. The quiet dog jumped into the water and returned a long stick for the owner. He broke it into two and tossed it back into the water, the dog dutifully jumped in to return it as well. A well-trained dog is a delight!
Click on the images to see them larger, uncropped, and read their titles.
I focused on some details on the tree roots, between the rocks, and the general scenery as I slowly walked up towards the car. The granite blocks lying on the ground and forming the name-sake steps still looked impressive. As I arrived at the parking area, Jim and Dennis were still down the lower parts photographing the mini falls.
Arcadia
As they returned, we got into the car and Jim drove us to the usual spot on a small pond in Arcadia. There was little fall color around and the small opening for the water to flow down showed less activity. Although I photographed a few other things, I was drawn to the water’s surface reflecting the sky and a few hints of fall colors.
Perhaps a better experience next time.
jackie
A perfectly named falls. The “stepstones” are beautiful, but no doubt also treacherous with the wet, slippery leaves. Fall colors are lovely this time of year.
A. Cemal Ekin
The name is very fitting, Jackie as you said. When we were there, the leaves were not slippery. It is a challenging trip down and up for me. I saw better colors there, but still an interesting place to visit. Take care,
Cemal
Paul White
Great images of a very interesting state park. The falls are beautiful but as you stated very difficult for us to reach. The images of the Lab returning the stick to his owner were beautiful. Nothing like watching a well trained dog work.
A. Cemal Ekin
Yes, that dog was delightful, Paul. The falls were a bit disappointing with very little water running. But, the natural environment makes it enjoyable. Take care,
Cemal
Haluk Atamal
Beautiful images, Cemal. Thanks for sharing.
Many waterfalls are situated somewhere deep where no car can ride and I have always wondered whether climbing down or climbing up was more difficult. My quadricepts fail too quickly at 70+ but the main trouble has always been the slippery stones and / or leaves.
Take care and best regards,
Haluk
A. Cemal Ekin
Both ways are challenging, Haluk! Luckily, there were no wet leaves adding to the challenge. I used to enjoy the water reflecting fall colors. This time, there was practically no water. Next time! Take care,
Cemal
RAMAZAN KAMARI
Hello dear Cemal.
You have presented some very nice and intimate landscape examples. Watching these photos was a good preparation for my trip to Yedigöller National Park, where Turkish photographers have reached the status of pilgrims, in the coming days.
With my love and greetings.
A. Cemal Ekin
Ramazan, very good to hear from you. I am glad to hear you enjoyed the photographs. This location is far smaller than the Yedigoller National Park but offers interesting views. Enjoy your trip there. Take care,
Cemal