Hiking Didn’t Make Me Feel Free

I thought the 4th of July would feel different out here—somehow more honest, away from fireworks and crowds. Pictured Rocks is supposed to be this wild, untouched place, but the trails were packed. Everyone was smiling for photos, pretending not to notice the mosquitoes or the sweat. I kept waiting for that big, cinematic moment: the lake, the cliffs, the sense of arrival. Instead, I just felt tired. My shoes were soaked. My phone was almost dead. I took a picture of the water and didn’t post it. Sometimes, even the most beautiful places can’t shake the heaviness you bring with you. #TravelConfessions #HikingReality #NotAlwaysFree #Travel