By Jason Parks
Shortly after the rains ended on Sunday around 3 p.m. I grabbed my camera and headed out to Hidden Lake/Valley Parks.
There, as I walked through the mud and the sun broke out, the beauty of a post rain forest showed itself off.
The upper lake of the two lakes was gushing over as all the rain from the hills and valleys flowed into it. The upper lake is harder to walk around and get to, but views from the elevated bridges give you a good view. Also the waterfall from the lake that flows underneath the bridge is a nice site to see. Also to walk down by it and hear the rush of the water is soothing.
As I continued to the bigger lower lake, views of the sun shining through the wet tree limbs, little valleys, water running off into the lakes were amazing to see. The main lake was awash with mud. The waters were solid brown and the only life on the lake were a few birds and turtles that floated up to enjoy the sun. The otters were not out today. I am guessing that they were still hunkered down in their den asleep.
As I came to the outlet of the lower lake you could hear the rush of the over flow. It was gushing with all the runoff of the upper lake and all the other feeder streams.
From the footbridge I moved east down to a roaring waterfall. I have not seen this type of power from this particular lake in quite a while. It was impressive for what it was.
Then I decided to do a little trailblazing to see all of the hidden valleys with in the park. I was not disappointed.
With the sun, rain still fresh on the leaves, and the waters flowing I was happy to witness this natural beauty within the park. Also, I only ran into five other people taking in this natural beauty in Hidden Valley/Lakes Park. With easy access I hope more people try to make it out to see nature close up and personal right here in Martinez.
