Lush Spring, Blue Ghosts, and The Seasonal Round

posted in: Outdoors, WNC Hiking | 0

What a lush, beautiful spring it has been. Our tomatoes are hanging in there with the cooler temperatures, and I’ve been spending too much time reading along the banks of the Swannanoa river. Our mighty Beech is reaching ever closer … Continued

Hello, Winter

posted in: Outdoors, WNC Hiking | 0

I’ve always dreaded winter. The shorter days, the biting cold, and all the preparations involved just to be comfortable anywhere make it difficult to endure, to enjoy. I grew up in Denver in the 90’s when it snowed and snowed … Continued

Small Journeys

posted in: Trip Reports, WNC Hiking | 2

Our daughter isn’t home for summer vacation just yet, but I’ve been taking her on short hiking trips after school so that we can spend time together in the silence of the forest. She usually tries to fight me (homebody … Continued

Dry, Captivating Shortoff Mtn.

posted in: Trip Reports, WNC Hiking | 1

My hiking (and life) partner chose Shortoff Mountain because he knew I would fall in love with the dry, stark terrain and the unforgiving sun. I’ve always loved landscapes that reflect extremes and this trail allowed me to revel in … Continued

Cruel Descent to Paradise

posted in: Trip Reports, WNC Hiking, WNC Waterfalls | 5

We chose Rich Falls for our Saturday hiking adventure after finding it in the third edition of Kevin Adams’ North Carolina Waterfalls guidebook. We wanted a crystal clear, private swimming hole, and a trail that would likely be deserted. I’m … Continued