Yatake Highlands A summer break in the highlands, mug in hand

I stopped for a day of camping at Yatake Highlands in summer. Belton Auto Campground is a place where you can slow down among the highland scenery. I’d meant to rest a little before setting off on the next road, but the moment I got out of the car, the sound of the trees swaying caught my attention and I found myself looking up.

Beyond the trees, one mountain ridge rose behind another. I held the mug by its handle in one hand, resting the other beneath it, and felt my shoulders relax. I took a sip, then looked out at the mountains again. I’d thought I’d make this a quick stop, but I was already falling for the place.

I held the mug just below my chest and listened to the trees. The sound faded for a moment, then the breeze came through again, and I found myself listening for it. Maybe I didn’t need to hurry on. When I think back on this trip, I have a feeling I’ll love remembering the time I spent here without rushing anywhere.

Then I thought about how I’d planned the trip and laughed a little. I’d thought so carefully about which roads to take, but I’d decided how long to rest in no time at all. Maybe it’s because I love driving that I notice things once I’m out of the car. Next time, I want to plan my trip around a day at the campground.

Before I left, I looked toward the trees one more time. The branches were swaying just as they had before, but now they felt much closer than when I’d arrived. A photo alone might not show how relaxed I was here. I’ll tell my friend how I waited for the breeze even while telling myself it was time to move on.

Even after I got back to the car, I kept thinking about the sound of the trees. I was still excited for the road ahead, but today, even this little rest became the highlight of the trip. Once I had my hands back on the wheel and my eyes on the road, I wanted to drive again. I set off, carrying the time I’d spent in the summer highlands with me.