Day 72 - Blue Ridge Parkway (North Carolina Part 2)

Day 72 of a Year Long Road Trip Along America’s Scenic Byways

Blue Ridge Parkway

I awoke to another HAZY morning. I was a bit disappointed as Reader’s Digest describes Linville Falls as one of the most popular stops on the Blue Ridge Parkway, and if travelers could pick one stop along the route, Linville Falls would be the most likely choice. I hoped low hanging fog in Asheville, and a clear day in the mountains.

Lucky for me, my hope turned out to be reality. The mountain tops, in crystal clear skies, towered above valleys blanketed in clouds. Looking out above the clouds gave me a feeling like I was in the Himalayas – obviously far from it – but the panorama looked magnificent. I stopped at countless overlooks to admire the views.

view on blue ridge parkway in North carolina

Linville Falls

It took a few hours to make it to Linville Falls, but we enjoyed a lovely mile hike along broad trails to three different overlooks. Several visitors were out enjoying the fantastic day as well, thus the mutts made lots of new friends! The wide trails were a nice change. Most have been extremely narrow making it difficult to pass with two dogs. The trails were also relatively smooth and flat, another welcome difference. Of late, I’ve had to release the dogs from the leashes in a number of spots just to clamber over the rocks safely.

Moses H. Cone Memorial Park

After our hike at the falls, we made one more, short stop at the Moses H. Cone Memorial Park. With a two hour drive ahead of us to get to Charlotte for the evening, we didn’t go for a walk. I was anxious to settle into a house for the holiday. Once again, Walter and Cindy played hosts. Only this time it was at their house in Charlotte, and they were out of town.

We got to Walter and Cindy’s house around three to find a loaf of pumpkin bread and coffee ready to brew at 6am in the morning. So great! Walter even sent me an email with the local Thanksgiving events and corresponding internet links for the Turkey Trot and downtown parade. Right now, I’m just enjoying resting on the couch! ETB

Map of My Road Trip Across the USA

For a summary about my road trip across the USA, click HERE. For the interactive map, see the below link.

map of road trip along scenic byways across the USA — Interactive Link to Map

Shop

Check out the photographic note cards and key chains at my shop. Each card has a travel story associated with it. 20% of proceeds are donated to charity.