Appalachian Treks

January Surprise

2012-01-28T17:05:00.002-05:00

Spring is sooner recognized by plants than by men.
--Chinese Proverb

possibilities

2012-01-24T09:16:00.001-05:00

In the beginner's mind there are many possibilities. In the expert's mind there are few.
--Shunryu Suzuki (1904-1971)

dazzlement

2012-01-20T21:14:00.002-05:00

Statistically the probability of any one of us being here is so small that you would think the mere possibility of existence would keep us all in a contented dazzlement of surprise.
--Lewis Thomas (1913-1993) physician, author, educator.

determination

2012-01-19T08:56:00.000-05:00

It's the constant and determined effort that breaks down resistance, sweeps away all obstacles.
--Claude M. Bristol (1891-1951) author

sparkles

2012-01-16T09:46:00.000-05:00

To the dull mind all nature is leaden. To the illuminated mind the whole world sparkles with light.
--Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803-1882) American author and philosopher.

opportunity

2012-01-14T18:48:00.001-05:00

Opportunity is missed by most people because it is dressed in overalls and looks like work.
–Thomas Edison(1847-1931) American inventor, scientist and businessman.

fear factor

2012-01-12T07:00:00.000-05:00

The worst of all fears is the fear of living.
--Theodore Roosevelt (1858-1919) 26th US President

impatient companion

2012-01-08T18:26:00.002-05:00

Patience is the companion of wisdom.
--St. Augustine (354-430) Theologian and Bishop

do more

2012-01-06T21:58:00.001-05:00

Do more than belong: participate.
Do more than care: help.
Do more than believe: practice.
Do more than be fair: be kind.
Do more than forgive: forget.
Do more than dream: work.
--William Arthur Ward (1921-1994) author.

attitude

2012-01-02T21:38:00.000-05:00

A positive attitude may not solve all your problems,but it will annoy enough people to make it worth the effort.
--HermAlbright (1876-1944) German-born American artist.

by faith alone

2011-12-30T15:08:00.003-05:00

If, on a quiet sea, toward Heaven we calmly sail,
With grateful hearts, O God, to Thee,
We’ll own the favoring gale.

But should the surges rise, and rest delay to come,
Blest be the tempest, kind the storm,
Which drives us nearer home.

Soon shall our doubts and fears all yield to Thy control;
Thy tender mercies shall illume
The midnight of the soul.

Teach us, in every state, to make Thy will our own;
And when the joys of sense depart,
To live by faith alone.

--Augustus Montague Toplady (1740-1778) Hymnist.

"If, On a Quiet Sea" is not especially well known, I don't even think it makes it into most hymnals today, but it's one of my favorites.

Relax!

2011-12-29T23:25:00.002-05:00

The man who doesn't relax and hoot a few hoots voluntarily, now and then, is in great danger of hooting hoots and standing on his head for the edification of the pathologist and trained nurse, a little later on.
--Elbert Hubbard (1856-1915) American author.

The Mountain Magnolia Inn is a beautifully restored 1868 Victorian mansion in the quaint mountain village of Hot Springs, NC. Located on 3 1/2 acres, the Inn features lodging and fine dining (dinner only, reservations recommended). The Inn, originally known as Rutland, was the home of Colonel James H. Rumbough and his wife Carie and their eight children. Pictured to the right is the foyer and the parlor (click to enlarge). For more information, photos and directions, click here.

crayola sky

2011-12-28T20:28:00.000-05:00

Artists are just children who refuse to put down their crayons.
--Al Hirschfeld (1903-2003) American caricaturist

house of prayer

2011-12-26T11:02:00.000-05:00

The function of prayer is not to influence God, but rather to change the nature of the one who prays.
--Søren Kierkegaard (1813-1855) Danish philosopher, theologian and author.

Above: 'Primitive Baptist Church' (built 1887) located in Cades Cove within the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. To the right is a view inside (click to enlarge).

rejoice!

2011-12-25T08:00:00.000-05:00

We consider Christmas as the encounter, the great encounter, the historical encounter, the decisive encounter, between God and mankind. He who has faith knows this truly; let him rejoice.
--Pope Paul VI (1897-1978)

Above: Stained glass window, Hopwood Memorial Christian Church, Milligan College, TN.

Merry Christmas!

If Everyday was like Christmas

2011-12-24T08:00:00.000-05:00

I will honor Christmas in my heart, and try to keep it all the year.
--Charles Dickens (1812-1870) English novelist.

Above: The beautiful Saint John's Church (dedicated in 1862) in Valle Crucis, NC.

Click here to listen to Elvis sing "If Everyday was like Christmas".

Christmas is all in the Heart

2011-12-23T08:00:00.000-05:00

He who has not Christmas in his heart will never find it under a tree.
--Roy L. Smith.

Click here to listen to Steven Curtis Chapman's Christmas is All in the Heart.

Christmas waiting

2011-12-22T09:54:00.000-05:00

Time always seems long to the child who is waiting for Christmas.
--Dag Hammarskjold (1905-1961) Swedish author

My friends' son E.J. (21 months old) with Mimi watching for Santa (well, actually watching their dad turn on the outside Christmas lights...)

hope

2011-12-18T15:03:00.001-05:00

Hope sees the invisible, feels the intangible, and achieves the impossible.
--Helen Keller.

This is the first iPhone photo I've posted on Appy Treks. While the images often lack the resolution and clarity of those taken with my Nikon SLR, it certainly is handier to carry around! I've been busy grading final exams, so I haven't been able to get out much lately to enjoy this amazing weather. This particular shot was taken on a rainy day last week from my front porch.

disruptive innovation

2011-12-16T12:07:00.001-05:00

Just as a stream flows smoothly on as long as itencounters no obstruction, so the nature of man and animal is such that wenever really notice or become conscious of what is agreeable to our will; if weare to notice something, our will has to have been thwarted, has to haveexperienced a shock of some kind.
--Arthur Schopenhauer (1788-1860) German philosopher.

If you haven't yet ordered your 2012 Appy Treks Calendar -- you can now get one for 50% off! Use code HOLIDAYSUPERSAVINGS355 when ordering thru 12/31 (save up to $15). Order yours today! :)

2012 Appalachian Treks Calendar

2011-12-15T23:20:00.000-05:00

The 2012 Appalachian Treks Calendar. This twelve-month calendar features a different landscape each month of a beautiful scene from the mountains of Tennessee, North Carolina and Virginia. The calendar is full-color, spiral bound, measures approximately 11"x17" when opened, and is printed on high-quality card stock.

Give the gift of Appy Treks this Christmas! :)

Special Offer! Lulu (my printer) is always putting out promotional codes for the products it lists. Here are the ones I've found that I'd recommend trying during checkout: HOLIDAYSUPERSAVINGS355 (50% off), DECPHOTOS30 (30% off), and NINECAL (15% off). Thanks in advance for your order!

dew dance

2011-12-09T00:09:00.001-05:00

Let your life lightly dance on the edges of Time like dewon the tip of a leaf.
--Rabindranath Tagore (1861-1941) Indian author.

Still time to order an Appy Treks 2012 Calendar in time for Christmas! Use code 'COUNTDOWN305' during checkout and get 25% off! (thru 12/14)

a penny for your thoughts

2011-12-05T07:17:00.001-05:00

The greatest compliment that was ever paidme was when one asked me what I thought, and attended to my answer.
--HenryDavid Thoreau (1817-1862) American Essayist, Poet and Philosopher.

A view of Holston Mountain from a farm in Sullivan County, TN.

that man is a success

2011-12-02T22:36:00.001-05:00

The mark of a successful manis one that has spent an entire day on the bank of a river without feelingguilty about it.
--Author Unknown

A scene from along the Erwin Linear Trail...

Footwork

2011-11-28T17:45:00.001-05:00

Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.--Ralph Waldo Emerson

Over the years I've encountered lots of thru-hikers up on Unaka Mountain, but Mike Ryan (trailname 'Footwork') was the first SOBO I've met. SOBO is trail talk for 'South-bounders', which means Mike began his trek up on Mt. Katahdin in Maine on June 22nd and now, 1,840 miles later, he's on the home stretch of his 2,180 miles march to Springer Mountain in Georgia, the southern terminus of the Appalachian Trail. Most of the thru-hikers are NOBOs, beginning their trek in early spring with the hope of completing their hikes before the early winter of northern New England. But because Mike didn't graduate from Appalachian State until late May, his only real option, was to ride a bus to Maine (not a pleasant experience) and head south. He had lots of great stories to share of his adventures (and the characters he's met along the way) -- and is definitely looking forward to completing his journey. It really is an amazing accomplishment. Only 1 in 4 of those who attempt a thru-hike actually complete the entire trail, most leaving the trail within the first two weeks.

heartwarmer

2011-11-25T20:15:00.001-05:00

This is my wish for you:
Comfort on difficult days,
smiles when sadness intrudes,
rainbows to follow the clouds,
laughter to kiss your lips,
sunsets to warm your heart,
hugs when spirits sag,
beauty for your eyes to see,
friendships to brighten your being,
faith so that you can believe,
confidence for when you doubt,
courage to know yourself,
patience to accept the truth,
Love to complete your life.
--Theodore Roethke (1908–1963) American poet.

The perfect gift! The 2012 Appalachian Treks Calendar...get yours today! :) Use code HOLIDAYNOW and get 25% off thru Sunday, the 27th.

gratitude

2011-11-23T20:00:00.001-05:00

Gratitude bestows reverence, allowing us to encounter everyday epiphanies, those transcendent moments of awe that change forever how we experience life and the world.
--John Milton (1608-1674) English poet.

Happy Thanksgiving!

autumn spiral

2011-11-22T23:21:00.001-05:00

The growth of understanding follows an ascending spiral rather than a straight line.
--Joanna Field (1900-1998) English psychologist.

Swirling leaves out a Rock Creek Park, Erwin, TN.

fountains of life

2011-11-21T07:35:00.001-05:00

Thousands of tired, nerve-shaken, over-civilized people are beginning to find out that going to the mountains is going home; that wildness is a necessity; that mountain parks and reservations are useful not only as fountains of timber and irrigating rivers, but as fountains of life.
--John Muir (1838-1914) Naturalist and Conservationist.

Blue and I at Kiner Creek Falls near Church Hill, TN. For directions to this beautiful, but hard-to-reach waterfall click here.

loveliness

2011-11-19T22:50:00.001-05:00

A thing of beauty is a joy forever; itsloveliness increases; it will never pass into nothingness.
--John Keats (1795-1821) English RomanticPoet.

Lovely Laurel Run Falls outside of Church Hill, TN -- directions here.

Coon Den Falls

2011-11-18T17:35:00.001-05:00

November always seemed to me the Norway of the year.
--Emily Dickinson

A beautiful, but often overlooked waterfall in the Dennis Cove area of Carter County, TN. Not a long hike, but it's steep (and slippery)! More info and directions here...

changing seasons

2011-11-17T17:52:00.001-05:00

All things change, nothing isextinguished. There is nothing in the whole world which is permanent.Everything flows onward; all things are brought into being with achanging nature; the ages themselves glide by in constant movement.
--Ovid (43 BC-17AD) Ancient Roman Author

character

2011-11-09T23:50:00.001-05:00

People do not seem to realize that their opinion of theworld is also a confession of character.
--Ralph Waldo Emerson

progress

2011-11-07T22:36:00.001-05:00

Behold the turtle. He makes progress only when he sticks his neck out.
--James Bryant Conant (1893-1978) chemist and university president

old age

2011-11-06T21:17:00.003-05:00

How beautifully leaves grow old. How full of light and color are their last days.
--John Burroughs

listen

2011-11-05T10:18:00.002-05:00

Courage is what it takes to stand up and speak; courageis also what it takes to sit down and listen.
--Winston Churchill(1874-1965) British Prime Minister

Unaka Mountain

time to savor

2011-10-31T21:31:00.001-05:00

The only reason for time is so that everything doesn't happen at once.
--Albert Einstein (1879-1955) German-born American Physicist

The Linn Cove Viaduct ... two weeks ago.

twisty

2011-10-29T22:41:00.000-05:00

The tongue of man is a twisty thing, there are plenty of words there of every kind.
--Homer (8th century BC) Greek poet

"Secret Garden"

2011-10-27T08:27:00.000-05:00

Milligan College will present the magical musical “The Secret Garden” on Friday and Saturday, Oct. 28 and 29, at 7 p.m. and on Sunday, Oct. 30, at 2:30 p.m. All performances will be held in the McGlothin-Street Theatre in Milligan’s Gregory Center for the Liberal Arts. Bringing the audience along on the journey into the magical garden is Carshala Davis (above), playing the role of Mary Lennox. Davis is a junior psychology major from Memphis, Tenn. For more information, click here.

lovely autumn

2011-10-22T19:42:00.000-05:00

Autumn, the year's last, loveliest smile.
--William Cullen Bryant (1794-1878) American poet, journalist.

Grandfather Mountain, Avery County, NC.

autumn colors

2011-10-19T18:16:00.002-05:00

Color is my day-longobsession, joy and torment.
--Claude Monet (1840-1926) French impressionist painter.

Autumn colors on a rainy day.

contemplate

2011-10-18T21:14:00.002-05:00

To do the useful thing, to say the courageous thing, tocontemplate the beautiful thing: that is enough for one man's life.
--T.S. Eliot (1888-1965) author.

One of the black bears within the wildlife habitat at Grandfather Mountain.

live well

2011-10-17T18:21:00.003-05:00

The purpose of life is not to be happy. It is to beuseful, to be honorable, to be compassionate, to have it make some differencethat you have lived and lived well.
--Ralph Waldo Emerson (1817-1862) American Essayist and Philosopher.

Still lots of green out in the Clark's Creek area of Unicoi County -- and not much water... just in case anyone was thinking about visiting Sill Branch Falls, Pine Ridge Falls or Buckeye Falls. Even so, Clark's Creek Road offers a beautiful and peaceful drive through the woods. (click here for directions and descriptions of the various trails and waterfalls found there).

looking back

2011-10-17T06:49:00.002-05:00

When I look back on all these worries, I remember thestory of the old man who said on his deathbed that he had had a lot of troublein his life, most of which had never happened.
--Winston Churchill (1874-1965) British Prime Minister

Another view of Boone Fork Bridge.

burst into flame

2011-10-15T11:00:00.001-05:00

In everyone's life, at some time, our inner fire goes out. It is then burst into flame by an encounter with another human being. We should all be thankful for those people who rekindle the inner spirit.
--Albert Schweitzer (1875-1965) German humanitarian, theologian, missionary.

A view of Rough Ridge and the Blue Ridge Parkway.

autumn journey

2011-10-14T08:00:00.000-05:00

Life is a journey, and with every step we reach a point ofno return.
--David Farland, author

Above: Boone Fork Bridge in autumn along the Tanawha Trail.

divine design

2011-10-13T11:16:00.000-05:00

We had better design and build thoughtfully,sensitively, creatively, as we usher men and women into the presence of thenatural gods.
--Stanley William Abbott (1908-1975) architect of the Blue Ridge Parkway

autumn awe

2011-10-11T23:18:00.001-05:00

The important thing is not to stop questioning. Curiosity has its own reason for existing. One cannot help but be in awe when he contemplates the mysteries of eternity, of life, of the marvelous structure of reality. It is enough if one tries merely to comprehend a little of this mystery every day. Never lose a holy curiosity.
--Albert Einstein (1889-1955) physicist

Above: The awesome beauty of autumn along the Blue Ridge Parkway. In the distance you can see the Linn Cove Viaduct wrapping around Grandfather Mountain. Click here to learn more about how this marvelous engineering accomplishment came to be.

launch!

2011-10-10T16:00:00.000-05:00

You must live in the present, launch yourself on every wave, find your eternity in each moment. Fools stand on their island of opportunities and look toward another land. There is no other land; there is no other life but this.
--Henry David Thoreau (1817-1862) American Essayist and Philosopher

Canoeing on Price Lake.

autumn harvest

2011-10-09T18:22:00.000-05:00

For man, autumn is a time of harvest, of gathering together. For nature, it is a time of sowing, of scattering abroad.
--Edwin Way Teale (1899-1980) American naturalist, photographer, and Pulitzer Prize-winning writer.

autumn grace

2011-10-08T19:59:00.001-05:00

No spring nor summer beauty hath such grace
As i have seen in one autumnal face.
--John Donne (1572-1631) English poet.

Autumn has arrived and is at its peak atop Unaka Mountain along the TN/NC border. In the distance in this photo taken from Unaka, is Roan Mountain.

autumn smile

2011-10-06T21:54:00.000-05:00

Children learn to smile from their parents.
--Shinichi Suzuki (1898-1998) violinist and teacher

My friends' daughter Brooklyn discovers autumn.

marvel

2011-10-02T09:10:00.001-05:00

The day I see a leaf is a marvel of a day.
--Kenneth Patton (1911-1994) poet

Roan High Knob

2011-09-30T20:40:00.001-05:00

The last time I went to the Roan High Knob Shelter the snow was several inches deep (see photos and my short write-up of the history of the shelter here), so I thought I'd venture back to see what it looked like in the summer. To be honest, it looked a lot better covered with snow! The old fire warden's cabin is in pretty rough shape, but not bad considering it was originally built back in 1933 (renovated in 1980). Below is a handheld panorama of five photos stitched together in Photoshop of the steep and winding side trail leading off the Appalachian Trail to the shelter (click to enlarge). While I was there I noticed that there's a very nice spruce forest behind the shelter, and as I explored that I came across the 1934 survey marker on the top of the boulders you see below making the highest point on Roan Mountain at 6,285 feet.

Directions: Take Route 19E to the town of Roan Mountain, turn onto Route 143 and travel 12.8 miles to the TN/NC state line (Carver's Gap). On your way up the mountain, you'll pass through the Roan Mountain State Park. Eventually, you leave the state park and enter the national forest. Option 1:Park at Carver's Gap and take the AT approx. 1.5 miles up (heading south on the AT, away from the Balds) -- or (Option 2) turn right at Carver's Gap and continue driving to the Old Cloudland Hotel Site (this road is closed during the winter months). Park at the end of the lot nearest the bathrooms, climb the stairs and venture to your left. You'll soon run into the AT. Turn right to hike north on the AT (toward the balds) for a short distance (approx. 1/2 mile) -- on the way you'll pass by an old chimney. The shelter is located one tenth of a mile off the AT on well-marked, blue-blazed trail. Click here for the Google map of the Roan Mountain area.

forgotten

2011-09-27T07:00:00.000-05:00

May you never forget what is worth remembering, nor ever remember what is best forgotten.
--Irish Blessing

I don't know the history behind this old chimney found along the Appalachian Trail between the High Knob Shelter and the Old Cloudland Hotel site on top of Roan Mountain. Can anyone fill in this bit of lost history for us?

ch-ch-changes

2011-09-25T10:58:00.002-05:00

Born often under another sky, placed in the middle of an always moving scene, himself driven by the irresistible torrent which draws all about him, the American has no time to tie himself to anything, he grows accustomed only to change, and ends by regarding it as the natural state of man. He feels the need of it, more he loves it; for the instability; instead of meaning disaster to him, seems to give birth only to miracles all about him.
--Alexis de Tocqueville (1805-1859)French Historian and Political scientist.

Here it is the start of fall and I still have photos from summer that didn't get posted. This is a shot of the bloom of a "great rhododendron" -- a common sight during the summer months in the Appalachians.

resilience

2011-09-22T07:30:00.000-05:00

Notice that the stiffest tree is most easily cracked, while the bamboo or willow survives by bending with the wind.
--Bruce Lee (1940-1973) American Actor and martial arts expert

Allandale Mansion

2011-09-20T07:30:00.000-05:00

When Harvey and Ruth Brooks met with their architect in 1949, their vision for their new house was a quaint cottage with a white picket fence. What they ended up building was a sprawling, ornate house, "a modern adaptation of an antebellum mansion… a classic example of Georgian Architecture." Upon his death in 1969, the mansion was left to the city of Kingsport along with many of its furnishings, twenty-five acres and numerous outbuildings. Two conditions were placed on the gift, that the city maintain the property as it was during their lives and that it be used for public benefit. Today, the property is used for a variety of public events and is available for private weddings.

Click on the thumbnail photos to enlarge. The first is of the entryway, the impressive staircase (the second image) and the exterior columns and portico were bought by Mr. and Mrs. Brooks in Knoxville and shipped to the building site. The third image is of the pink room (Bride's Bedroom) on the second floor.

Click here to visit the official website which contains more of the history of the mansion, photo galleries, and directions. Here's a video tour of the mansion:

antiques

2011-09-19T07:30:00.000-05:00

Remember that the most valuable antiques are dear old friends.
--H. Jackson Brown, Jr., American author.

More than 400 classic cars were on display yesterday at the Allandale Mansion in Kingsport, TN during the Daniel Boone Region AACA Car Show. Lots of fun!

a perfect gentleman

2011-09-18T15:18:00.001-05:00

To call him a dog hardly seems to do him justice, though inasmuch as he had four legs, a tail, and barked, I admit he was, to all outward appearances. But to those who knew him well, he was a perfect gentleman.
--Hermione Gingold

My heart goes out to my wonderful neighbors who lost their beloved Gatsby last night at the age of 16. He was such a big part of their lives. He was such a good dog -- and they were so very good to him. (another photo here)

balance

2011-09-17T08:57:00.000-05:00

Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance you must keep moving.
--Albert Einstein (1879-1955) German-born American Physicist

Above: Milligan College sophomore Branden Jones (Valley, AL) during a recent Mountain Biking meet at ETSU.

For information on mountain bike trails in the area, click here.

solitude

2011-09-12T21:05:00.000-05:00

It is easy in the world to live after the world's opinion; it is easy in solitude to live after our own; but the great man is he who in the midst of the crowd keeps with perfect sweetness the independence of solitude.
--Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803-1882) American philosopher and writer.

Picnic tables at the Watauga Point Recreation Area on Watauga Lake.

take rest

2011-09-07T19:29:00.001-05:00

Take rest; a field thathas rested gives a bountiful crop.
--Ovid (43 BC - 17/18 AD) Roman poet.

Above: Tomato farm in Washington Co., TN

Linville Gorge Wilderness

2011-09-03T11:39:00.000-05:00

This rustic cabin serves as the information center for visitors to the Linville Gorge Wilderness. The gentleman behind the counter said it was built by college students back in 1983 using primitive tools. It's a good place to stop and pick up maps of the area in order to learn more about the numerous trails located in the gorge. There are two main attractions which draw visitors to this side of the Gorge: Wiseman's Overlook and Linville Falls. While there's direct access to Linville Falls from the Blue Ridge Parkway, there is an alternate, 'back' entrance and parking lot located not far from the cabin above on what is known as Kistler Memorial Highway (NC 1238). To call this a highway is a stretch, it's all gravel and pretty rough in places. While you're in the area, be sure to check out Chestoa View, an easily accessible overlook just a short distance south on the Parkway. On the other side of the Gorge is the magnificent Table Rock - the trail and views from there are unforgettable.

More information on Linville Gorge and Wiseman's Overlook click here and here.

Directions: Click here.

No man is an island

2011-09-01T22:04:00.001-05:00

No man is an island, entire of itself; every man is a piece of the continent, a part of the main. If a clod be washed away by the sea, Europe is the less, as well as if a promontory were, as well as if a manor of thy friend's or of thine own were: any man's death diminishes me, because I am involved in mankind, and therefore never send to know for whom the bells tolls; it tolls for thee.
--John Dunne (1572-1631) English poet.

slow down

2011-08-29T21:12:00.000-05:00

Slow down and enjoy life. It's not only the scenery you miss by going too fast - you also miss the sense of where you are going and why.
--Eddie Cantor (1892-1964) entertainer and songwriter.

golden moment

2011-08-28T12:54:00.001-05:00

To improve the golden moment of opportunity, and catch the good that is within our reach, is the great art of life.
--Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English Poet, Critic and Writer.

beauty everywhere

2011-08-23T06:23:00.002-05:00

To the artist there is never anything ugly in nature.
--Auguste Rodin (1840-1917) French sculptor

hidden talents

2011-08-20T12:12:00.001-05:00

It appears that nature has hid at the bottom of our hearts talents and abilities unknown to us. It is only the passions that have the power of bringing them to light, and sometimes give us views more true and more perfect than art could possibly do.
--François de la Rochefoucauld (1613-1680) French author.

The view of Linville Gorge and Hawksbill Mountain from Wiseman's View. Click here for more discussion and directions to this spectacular overlook near Linville Falls and the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Chestoa View

2011-08-16T21:31:00.003-05:00

A man practices the art of adventure when he breaks the chain of routine and renews his life through reading new books, traveling to new places, making new friends, taking up new hobbies and adopting new viewpoints.
--Wilfred Peterson (1900-1995) author.

Chestoa View Overlook is located at Mile 320 of the Blue Ridge Parkway, near two of the most spectacular waterfalls on or near the parkway...Linville Falls (Mile 316.4) and Crabtree Falls (Mile 339.5). There are so many pulloffs and overlooks along the parkway, it's hard to know which ones are worth the stop. Chestoa is definitely one of them. It offers a terrific view of Linville Gorge, including Hawksbill Mountain and Table Rock -- and while there are great views to be had around nearly ever bend of the parkway, this one is exceptional. And it's only a hop, skip and a jump from the parking area -- only about 100 yards down an easy stair-stepped path. For those who need more of a leg stretcher, there's a 0.6 mile trail (rated as 'easy') that leads to more views. But the best view to be had is the one from the viewing platform you see above. While you're in the area, I also recommend stopping off at Wiseman's Overlook to take in the beauty of Linville Gorge (but I recommend a high clearance vehicle for that one).

I don't know who the man is in my photo. I was actually getting set up to take the photo, after waiting for various groups to leave, when he jumped into my shot. To be honest, I was a little frustrated at first, but then I realized it was a better shot with him in there. :) So thank you, my Russian friend.

nostalgia

2011-08-14T21:31:00.001-05:00

The world is full of people whose notion of a satisfactory future is, in fact, a return to the idealized past.
--Robertson Davies (1913-1995) author.

Here's a shot I took today of Grandfather Mountain - from my favorite angle, under my favorite tree in MacRae Meadows. I decided to give it the texturized treatment where I added an old film look just for something different. Back in December of 2009, the trees in the picnic/camping area of MacRae Meadows were severely damaged by an ice storm, click here to see the destruction. They've done a wonderful job cleaning up and sprucing up the area which is the site of the annual Highland Games each July.

trust.

2011-08-12T15:04:00.002-05:00

Trust is not just the foundation of leadership, it's the speed at which leadership operates. --John Maxwell (b.1947) Christian author, speaker, and pastor.

The footbridge leading to Osceola Island on the South Holston River near Bristol, TN.

beauteous

2011-08-11T06:20:00.000-05:00

Beauty, unaccompanied by virtue, is as a flower without perfume.
--French proverb

courage

2011-08-08T21:54:00.002-05:00

Courage is fear holding on a minute longer.
--George S. Patton (1885-1945) US Army General

In Stillness and Simplicity

2011-08-07T07:14:00.001-05:00

Blessed are the single-hearted, for they shall enjoy much peace. If you refuse to be hurried and pressed, if you stay your soul on God, nothing can keep you from that clearness of spirit which is life and peace. In that stillness you will know what His will is.
--Amy Carmichael (1867-1951) Christian missionary to India.

A scene from Rocky Fork in Unicoi County, TN. Click here to listen to Michael Card's song, In Stillness and Simplicity.

hold on loosely

2011-08-05T13:05:00.002-05:00

I have learned to hold all things loosely, so God will not have to pry them out of my hands. --Corrie ten Boom (1892-1983) Holocaust survivor and author.

Appalachian Wineries

2011-08-03T13:50:00.002-05:00

I was excited to (finally!) visit the two wineries located here in the Tri-Cities region of Northeast TN. They're in very close proximity to one another, just off of Interstate 81 near Blountville and the Tri-Cities Airport -- making for a very easy and fun destination to visit with friends and family. Both offer free wine tastings and reasonably priced bottles of many different varieties of wines for purchase. I've listed the names, locations and store hours below -- Check them out! (P.S. For those in the high country of NC...check out the wonderful winery located in Banner Elk, NC!)

Countryside Vineyards and Winery
658 Henry Harr Road
Blountville, TN 37617
(423) 323-1660
Store hours are Monday through Saturday, 10 am - 6 pm, Sundays 1 pm - 6 pm.

Corey Ippolito Vineyards (pictured above)
533 Rogers Oakdale Private Drive
Blountville, TN 37617
(423) 323-1241
Store hours are Monday through Saturday, 10 am - 6 pm, Sundays by appointment.

Directions: Take Interstate 81 to exit 63 (Tri-City Airport Exit) take exit, at end of ramp turn north, go past the Kingsport water tower take 3rd left onto Henry Harr Road. Countryside Vineyards and Winery is 0.7 mile on left. After visiting there, continue on Henry Harr Road another 0.2 miles and turn right onto Rogers Oakdale Dr., follow this road around for 0.35 miles to the entrance to Corey ippolito Winery on your left.

Here's a map I put together of other wineries in our region. Let me know if you know of others to include.

View Appalachian Wineries in a larger map

Roan getaway

2011-07-31T21:23:00.001-05:00

If you can't stand the heat, get out of the kitchen.
--Harry S. Truman (1884-1972) 33rd President of the United States.

On the trail to Roan High Bluff Overlook. The day we visited this week it was 92 steamy degrees in the Tri-Cities and a welcome 70 degrees up on Roan!

The Author of Love

2011-07-28T06:49:00.000-05:00

Be a little pencil in the hand of God
who is sending a love letter to the world.
--Mother Teresa (1910-1997) missionary

stretch

2011-07-27T06:26:00.001-05:00

Enlarge your consciousness. If your consciousness is small, you will experience smallness in every department of your life.
--Robert Pante

The second of four creek crosses on the way to Rock Creek Falls.

action + vision

2011-07-25T07:00:00.001-05:00

Vision without action is a dream. Action without vision is simply passing the time. Action with Vision is making a positive difference.
--Joel Barker, author

simplify

2011-07-24T19:13:00.000-05:00

Our life is frittered away by detail ... simplify, simplify.
--Henry David Thoreau (1817-1862) American Essayist, Poet and Philosopher

forgiveness

2011-07-22T06:30:00.001-05:00

He that cannot forgive others, breaks the bridge over which he himself must pass if he would ever reach heaven; for everyone has need to be forgiven.
--George Herbert (1593-1633) English Poet and Clergyman

inspiration

2011-07-20T23:34:00.000-05:00

It is not from ourselves that we will learn to be better than we are.
--Wendell Berry (b.1934) Author

On the trail to Rock Creek Falls.

Rock Creek Falls

2011-07-18T23:37:00.001-05:00

These remote waterfalls are located on the side of Unaka Mountain in Unicoi County, TN. The photo here of the main (or upper) falls doesn't really do it justice. The way the water plunges 50 feet down its two tiers is unique and beautiful -- and difficult to adequately capture. It's one of those that I guess you just need to go see for yourself. Standing there you also get an idea where most of the rocks in Rock Creek came from. You're surrounded by sheer rock walls on three sides that have been shedding fragments both large and small which have been washed down the mountain over the time. When I arrived a steady rain began. So I didn't get to stay long. On my way back I stopped by the lower falls, which I passed on the way up. The rain had slowed to a mist and I was able to get a better shot of the 30 foot tall lower falls (below, left) -- which is more of a cascade. In between these two falls are the aptly named middle falls - which would be very difficult to reach. You can get a glimpse of this 15' waterfall from the trail above.

Though the sign pointing the way to Rock Creek Falls says 2 miles, it seems quite a bit longer than that -- maybe it was the heat, or the rain, or the 1200 feet climb in elevation. The first part is easiest, as the trail takes you around the campground and along the creek. You eventually come to the first of four creek crossings which have been greatly improved since my last visit to the falls. As long as the water isn't too high, you shouldn't have too much trouble rock hoping these crossings. The trail gets more steep after the third crossing. But in all, the trail is well maintained, and follows the tumbling creek the entire distance, giving some nice views of cascades on your way up. (More photos included in my prior post here). Click here to read Hiking Bill's excellent account of this hike.

The flow of Rock Creek varies a lot throughout the year...from a torrent in the spring, down to a trickle in the late summer. There's a small man-made waterfall near the beginning of the hike, which directs part of the flow of the creek to a man made swimming pool/cement pond in the park. I use this as a guide/indication of whether to continue on up to the falls. If there's water flowing over this waterfall, that's a good sign that the waterfalls above will be worth venturing to. Here's a pic of this man-made waterfall this past spring when the water level was quite high. Yesterday, there was only a thin curtain of water coming over.

Directions: From I-26 take the Erwin Main Street Exit (#36), at the end of the ramp turn east toward town and you will immediately arrive at a stop light. Turn right onto Rt. 107 and drive 1/2 mile, turn left at stop light onto Rock Creek Road (Rt. 395) -- continue on for 3.1 miles, turn left at entrance to Rock Creek Park. Circle through the park making your way to the parking area next to the bath house/swimming area (in the winter months, you'll have to park further back and walk in). Park here and begin walking north toward the campground. You'll immediately see a sign pointing to a gravel trail to Rock Creek Falls to the left. Follow it for 1/2 mile and you'll come to a bridge, but don't cross it, instead, dog-leg to the right and you'll continue on the trail to the falls. It's well marked - and you can't miss either waterfall. The lower waterfall is down a fairly steep and muddy embankment - it's not too bad if you take your time. The upper falls is about 5 minutes further up the main trail.

wedding day

2011-07-16T09:05:00.001-05:00

I dreamed of a wedding of elaborate elegance,
A church filled with family and friends.
I asked him what kind of a wedding he wished for,
He said one that would make me his wife.
--Author Unknown.

Congratulations to my friends Nathan and Laken on their wedding today!

somewhere out there

2011-07-15T07:07:00.000-05:00

Somewhere there is someone that dreams of your smile, and finds in your presence that life is worthwhile, so when you are lonely remember it’s true, someone somewhere is thinking of you.
--unknown

Summer Trail

2011-07-13T21:19:00.002-05:00

What saves a man is to take a step. Then another step.
--C.S. Lewis (1898-1963) British Scholar and Novelist.

The trail to Crabtree Falls (lined with rhododendron blooms) in Yancey Co., NC.

majesty

2011-07-08T21:31:00.001-05:00

There is a serene and settled majesty to woodland scenery that enters into the soul and delights and elevates it, and fills it with noble inclinations.
--Washington Irving (1783-1859) American Writer.

Click here for directions to this magnificent waterfall located north of Mount Mitchell along the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina. Of all the waterfalls I've visited in our region, this is my favorite - it's absolutely stunning. It's a bit of a trek to get there from the Tri-Cities area of TN, but well worth it. While in the area, visit Mount Mitchell and Roaring Fork Falls and make a day of it. :)

appreciation

2011-07-07T09:24:00.000-05:00

Do not spoil what you have by desiring what you have not; remember that what you now have was once among the things you only hoped for.
--Epicurus (341-270 BC) Greek philosopher.

I thought after all our recent downpours that I'd find more water out at Sill Branch Falls, but it's pretty thin right now. Still, I'm thankful to live in such a beautiful area where my biggest issue when venturing out is which marvelous creation should I visit today?

be who you are

2011-07-05T21:54:00.000-05:00

Be who you are and say what you feel because those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind.
--Dr. Seuss (1904-1991) American Writer and Cartoonist

simple things

2011-07-04T20:09:00.001-05:00

When we recall the past, we usually find that it is the simplest things - not the great occasions - that in retrospect give off the greatest glow of happiness.
--Bob Hope (1903-2003) Actor and Comedian.

Came across this photo of the old, weathered ramp leading to the lookout platform at the Rhododendron Gardens atop Roan Mountain. It was recently replaced by a snazzier, sturdier platform, which is good -- but I'll miss the rustic look and feel of the old one.

patriotism

2011-07-02T08:38:00.000-05:00

Patriotism is supporting your country all the time and the government when it deserves it.
--Mark Twain (1835-1910) American Humorist, Writer and Lecturer.

Tennessee's oldest town celebrates the Fourth this weekend with Jonesborough Days, more info here. It's such a beautiful old town, a great place to spend the day. For some really outstanding photography of Jonesborough, check C. David Cook's work.

with imagination

2011-06-29T21:58:00.000-05:00

The true sign of intelligence is not knowledge but imagination.
--Albert Einstein (1879-1955) German-born American Physicist

stewardship

2011-06-26T10:50:00.000-05:00

The ultimate test of a moral society is the kind of world that it leaves to its children.
--Dietrich Bonhoeffer (1906-1945) German Lutheran Pastor and Theologian.

Above: Roaring Fork Falls, Yancey County, NC.

one giant leap

2011-06-24T21:35:00.000-05:00

When in doubt, make a fool of yourself. There is a microscopically thin line between being brilliantly creative and acting like the most gigantic idiot on earth. So what the hell, leap.
--Cynthia Heimel, author

My boy "Blue" leaping into Watauga Lake.

achievement

2011-06-22T22:45:00.000-05:00

None of us will ever accomplish anything excellent or commanding except when he listens to this whisper which is heard by him alone.
--Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803-1882) American Poet, Lecturer and Essayist

Here's my friend Michael Kaal, visiting from Arizona where he lives and works as a landscape and wedding photographer, at Grayson Highlands State Park in southwest Virginia. Mike was a student of mine during his time at Milligan College -- and we also enjoyed many epic adventures hiking and photographing the area. Click here to visit his blog.

Where ya headed?

2011-06-21T21:40:00.000-05:00

If you do not change direction, you may end up where you are heading.
--Lao Tzu (6th century BC) philosopher of ancient China

A sign found along the Appalachian Trail at Carver's Gap.

father's day

2011-06-20T09:38:00.000-05:00

Good fathers make good sons.
--unknown

My friend, Ed, with his little boy, E.J. on Father's Day - they've made numerous appearances on Appy Treks, click here, here and here to see previous photos. The first link is to one of my favorite portraits.

Some Recommendations on Buying your First DSLR

2011-06-19T12:51:00.000-05:00

Dragonfly, taken at Warrior's Path State Park, Kingsport, TN
Details: Nikon D90 w/ Tamron 90mm macro lens, f/5.0, 1/400, ISO 500

I often get asked by students and blog readers for camera recommendations - especially for those just starting out. But because cameras and the technology change so fast (and because I don't have the funds to try every newly-introduced piece of equipment first-hand), advice is hard to give. Thankfully, there are lots of resources out there -- I always recommend two things: 1) do your homework (www.dpreview.com is my favorite source); and 2) buy from reputable dealers (www.bhphotovideo.com or www.adorama.com). If a deal sounds too good to be true, it is. Here are detailed reviews for the two most recent Nikon and Canon offerings that are intended for beginner/enthusiast DSLR camera owner:

Both are about $850, and include the standard 18-55mm kit lens. Here are two helpful side-by-side comparisons of these very similar cameras...

I don't think you could go wrong with either camera - there are strengths and weaknesses to each. I tend to lean towards the Nikon, and the reviews seem to agree with that. But it's very close - both are excellent cameras for those buying their first DSLR camera. For me, I'd really like to get the new Nikon d7000, but just can't justify spending the money right now!

Eventually, to have a full camera setup that will give you versatility to shoot landscapes, portraits, and macros, you'll probably want/need the following...
1. Either camera body
2. 18-200mm lens w/ circular polarizer
3. Macro lens
4. Portrait lens - 50mm f/1.8
4. Dedicated flash
5. Extra battery & SD card
6. Camera bag
7. Tripod

It gets pricey real quick. The good thing is that you don't have to get everything right away. But know that you're really buying into a system of lenses. Camera bodies don't last forever, they eventually wear out in 3 to 5 years and plus, the technology changes rapidly. But the lenses can last for decades if you treat them well - so it makes sense to always buy the best quality lenses you can afford.

My final point is to not get hung up on megapixels. The megapixel war was begun as an easy marketing tool to win over consumers who thought (logically) that more megapixels always meant better images. But that's not the case. The 6MP Nikon D40 takes far superior images to any 16MP compact point and shoot camera on the market today. That's because more important than the number of megapixels is the size of the sensor, the quality of the pixels, the quality of the processor, and the quality of the lens used. For the average consumer who wants to occasionally print out a high resolution 8x10 or 11x14 print, an 8-10 megapixel camera is all they'll ever need.

Hope this helps someone out there!