I've come back to finish up enjoying the Square challenge and this is one of those that makes me particularly glad I did. I love the tonal contrast, the composition, the little path, barely visible, up the hill, the grain. The sky suggests a storm - either impending or receding; either way, the mood is great.
I really like the harsh treatment but have on nitpick, the haloing around the tree trunk. Leaving everything else the same, you could carefully remove it in PS. Great shot!
loving your point of view looking up .. and the tree .. it looks almost like its reaching for the heavens .. i'm sure it feels happy that you have finally taken its photograph .. who wouldnt love a photograph by you .. :)