Issue date: 11/5/09 Section: Features

Media Credit: Park Greer Anglin Falls, near Berea, offers a mile-long walk that ends at a tranquil waterfall. Hikers who explore further can find caves and other falls.

Fall is here and the leaves are changing hues and falling gracefully to the ground, the sunsets are glorious and the days are comfortably cool.

Many students interested in outdoor exploits love to take advantage of the weather and sights during the autumn season and head to places like the Pinnacles in Berea or take a peaceful walk in some of the many parks located around Richmond; but nestled within the mountains surrounding Berea is a hiking opportunity that fits easily into a busy schedule.

Anglin Falls is a spectacular afternoon hike that often goes unnoticed due to its "hidden" location.

For anyone deciding whether or not to take the hike, here is some advice: Take it.

Not only is the short mile walk pristine, but the area is relatively unpopulated, making for a very relaxing hike.

The trail itself can be quite beautiful. It winds through a steep valley offering plenty of coverage from the heat of the sun, but still letting enough of the brilliance to light the trail and dance upon the leaves.

As the path takes a slight ascension, the walls of the valley begin to close in.

The cliffs tower above the small brook snaking its way through the soft dirt and hard stone.

After the short hike through the natural wonderland of trees, stones and flowers, the familiar sound of water falling from heights is heard, a steady murmur seeming far away but with each closing step becoming more audible and clear.

Cresting the hill brings the full feel and smell of the mist parading around the base of the column of water. Anglin Falls, in all its glory, is that column of water.

Anglin Falls differs from other waterfalls in many ways, it ís not well traveled, leaving much of the scenery intact, and there ís more to do than just visit the falls.

For the people who love to hike unhindered by trail boundaries, Anglin is the place to be.

The ageless rocks are simply begging to be climbed, and there's plenty to see on the surrounding cliffs.

The elder trees provide an excellent canopy and a beautiful scene for eager photographers to capture wondrous moments.

A small cave or two might reveal itself long enough to be explored if one looks hard enough.

The vicinity is full of surprises and even a few other falls just around the corner of the seemingly monstrous cliffs.

Anglin Falls is particularly spectacular after rain has drenched the area.

The ground will be a little wet, but the sparkling dew, cascading falls and sun glistening off the wet stones should be more than enough to make up for a pair of muddy shoes.

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