Blue Ridge Parkway

During our first full day in the NC mountains, we drove along part of the Blue Ridge Parkway. We were staying at The Highlands on Sugar Mountain, so we weren't far from the scenic drive.

Here is Little Bald Overlook (4,015 ft in elevation). It was one of several along the way.

Then we got out of the car and went on a short overlook trail. (I can't remember the name of it, but we set up the camera for a family shot.)

Then we headed over to Linville Falls and Gorge.

We were surprised at how little was available along the parkway for hikers. Maybe it was where we were, but we couldn't get our hands on an all inclusive list or map with trailheads marked. It seemed like each little section was run separate from the others. We used a newspaper from our hotel and what I could find online to figure out where we wanted to go.

Anyway, this was a great one. You cross over Linville River. You get a great view of Linville Gorge and Linville Waterfalls from various viewpoints and you could get close to part of the river.

First we went up to Erwin's View.

Then we made our way to Chimney View.

The people taking our picture had a dog with them and the kids were more interested in the dog than the camera. But, we took a few pictures.

Then we got a bit closer to the water.

Being in the carrier didn't stop Holden from dozing off. He was very tuckered out after all that riding along! These pictures are just too cute!

I also have some videos from this excursion, so I'll have to share those at some point too!