Then as we hiked around a bend, Coco launched a ferocious bark. Up the tree as fast as lightning went the bear. Only 20 feet up, and then down it came just as fast. While it stood in the trail observing us, I searched the forest for mama bear. Not seeing her, I bravely
let loose a roar and it scampered 20 yards off the trail and stopped. Far enough for us to slip by and finish our hike.
The last 3.5 miles of the hike were along the Appalachian Trail, which follows the top of the Blue Ridge. I noticed many of the same plants and bushes we have at home, but these were blooming about 3 to 4 weeks later at that elevation...such as pink lady slippers, wild azalea, mountain laurel and violets.
The several waterfalls were flowing nicely, and the air temps were a perfect 50s and crisp. BEF, this hike is about my favorite in southern Shenandoah NP: the Doyles River Falls-Jones Run Falls-AT circuit - 7.7 miles and 2,233' elevation gain. I am sore today. RNG - lots of motorcycles enjoying the Skyline Drive - but speed limit is only 35. Met and hiked a while with a man from Kansas...he brought his son out to college at UVA and fell in love with the AT, like me.
David, sorry you've got to cut the 'crete, but you get the trophy for the most strategically planned project. Maybe if you can follow the RNG approach of just cutting a hole, you can backfill it with a nice decorative volcanic rock...assuming it's not in a traffic area. Otherwise, a brick strip sounds nice.
Thomas, watching foxes is one of the best entertainments. They look healthy and happy at your place.
Rick, beautiful place.
BEF, congrats on your Zero Turn.
And Bird, congrats on owning your Ford now. They are great vehicles.
Edit: I don't know why this waterfall isn't following the rules of gravity, but it is blurry because my phone hand was also holding the leash of a dog that was set to go.
