Spaces & Places
Living in the foothills of Appalachia affords some pretty incredible opportunities for outdoor recreation.
It’s a mountain-lovers paradise.
On a whim last weekend, I joined a group of semi-new friends on trip up in latitude and in elevation to watch the sunset. I was literally along for the ride – no idea where exactly we … Read more
47 Parks
Returning to a favorite national park feels like coming home.
I drove only a few miles into the Smokies and was met with waves of nostalgia. I remember that trailhead! That huge majestic willow tree looks familiar!
My last visit to the park had involved multiple adventures over the course of a week. I trekked … Read more
47 Parks
Just Drive (Shenandoah)
A serene road
Up, down, and slightly around
Epic sunsets
And sunrises that make you think beyond
Overlooks that communicate
A different message each part of the day
Pull-offs that push your imagination
Sights that stimulate your eyes
Then back in the car
Steer through a place of wonder
Content to be … Read more
47 Parks
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47 Parks
A couple noteworthy things happened during my last 24 hours in Great Smoky Mountain National Park.
First of all, I met Trevor. He is only 2 parks away from visiting every single national park. That’s incredible! I was able to ask him a ton of questions about his journey thus far and gleam some … Read more
47 Parks
Cades Cove is a pretty neat little place. Long before the Smokies were established as a national park, settlers moved into the valley and created homesteads. Life was difficult, but these folks sure knew how to work hard, build community, and enjoy life in the mountains. Their daily routines revolved around feeding their families, heeding … Read more
47 Parks
The Smokies are perfect for those seeking deliciously satisfying views. There are numerous drives, hikes, and strolls that take you to fabulous summits.
A popular destination within the Smokies is Clingman’s Dome. It’s a simple half-mile walk up a paved inclined trail that lands you at the base of an observation tower. On Monday, I … Read more
47 Parks
No, I’m not talking about that convenient spigot full of fluoride-infused water that most Americans take for granted – I’m talking about rivers, streams, runs, brooks, creaks, and “cricks”. Great Smoky National Park is full of running water, flowing rapidly (yet sometimes leisurely) from the mountain crests.
I’ve been pretty spoiled to be able to … Read more