The photos of the path along the canal reminds me so much of the canal towpath in the C&O Canal National Historical Park in Maryland (US), which is home to the old canal along the Potomac River. It makes for a great location for walking, as it appears is the case with D&R Canal State Park. That coiled snake is a nice find. Over here it would be a garter snake but I've no clue what species are typical where you are.