We normally prefer circular hikes that allow us to avoid retracing our steps, but there was only one way out of Boynton Canyon…at least only one safe way out. We followed the dusty red trail in until it dropped us down into the forest, beneath a cover of evergreens. Climbing began toward the end of the trail where we scrambled up a narrow channel of boulders, emerging onto a large, smooth rock outcropping, scattered with handful of other determined hikers enjoying the view.
I try to remember to stop and look up every so often when hiking rather than carefully watching where I put my every footstep. The views were on our return trip were incredibly rewarding.
carryoncouple 
I prefer loop trails, too. However, I often find something of interest on the out and back trails. For some reason, the different perspective reveals things I missed on the way out.
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You’re right…when hiking a loop trail, I sometimes forget to stop and turn around to see where I’ve come from.
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