We got up early this morning to do a little hiking before the crowds descended. I think our timing was just about perfect because the sunrise hikers were headed back to their cars when we arrived and the crowds didn't arrive until we were leaving. The trail to Laurel Falls is a 2.4 mile round-trip hike with a change in elevation of just under 400 feet. It is a paved path in very poor condition (so not at all appropriate for strollers, wheelchairs, etc.). You can see the upper falls from the path but to view the lower falls, you need to climb down a rocky hill. It is worth it to take the time to climb down. Here are some photos of the falls and the wildflowers we found along the way.
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| I don't know how this tree grows out of the rock! |
Upper Laurel Falls
Lower Laurel Falls
Wildflowers
We continued along Fighting Creek Gap Road for a little while and stopped at a few pullouts before heading back to the cabin.
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| Rapids along the Little River |
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| The Sinks |
When we returned to the cabin, it was time for our friends to pack up and head home. Once they left, Paul grilled lunch and we enjoyed a quiet afternoon of bird watching, sitting in the hot tub, and enjoying the views.
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| Red-bellied Woodpecker |
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| Carolina Chickadee |
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| When we went to cover the grill, we found two of these female dark fishing spiders on the cover. They are quite large (around 3" including legs) but quite harmless. They are similar to a wolf spider and the easiest way to tell them apart from a wolf spider is the arraignment of their eyes (2 rows vs. 3 rows, each with a total of 8 eyes). |
Here is a photo of the mountains around sunset and then during the blue hour.
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