Lost shot conceals a hidden treasure
It was an overcast morning in Hot Springs and the forecasts indicated rain later in the day so I headed out at 09:30 CST. I decided to hike the Dead Chief Trail although I usually save this route for cold mornings but I am still keen to photograph the elusive Bobcat. I headed up the steps to the top of first incline but no sign of my four pawed friend. Birds are all active and I try to catch a few in my lens, snap a few that appear to be a bit late. However upon returning home I discovered a missed bird had reveal a hidden treasure hiding on the branch above me.
The sky began to darken so I opted for a hike that involved speed rather than a leisurely photo shoot. As I moved to another section of the trail where it parallels the mountain top road a small dog suddenly appeared. After I took his photograph I noticed a stream of cars and ran out to alert them to his position on the road. All attempts to lure him/her to us failed both by my self and others.
I continued to the top via the Short Cut Trail, then took the Hot Springs Mountain Trail around to The Honeysuckle Trail down the Peak to the Tufa Terrace and home… just missing the downpour. Don’t get me wrong I have climbed/hiked in a torrential rain, weather rarely stops me 
) but I left my rain gear behind and getting soaked was not something I was hoping to avoid.
