Sometimes I do get to places just when God's ready to have somebody click the shutter - Ansel Adams Jones Gap is one of a kind, so wild, yet not very far from Greenville. The main highlight of Jones Gap is the Middle Saluda River - the states first designated scenic river. The hike & terrain is somewhat challenging in a couple of places, but the views are amazing. The late afternoon sun and the clouds were just right, the the diffused light caused the entire place to be flooded with the golden glow. I was just in time to enjoy this scene :)
Soco falls is a beautiful, double waterfall on the edge of the Cherokee Indian Reservation, located near Maggie Valley. Its one among the most lovely waterfalls, by the Blue Ridge parkway - just 1.5 miles south of Soco Gap @ Milepost 455.7. Look for the small roadside parking area on the left of the road. It is easy to miss, since there is just one tiny sign. This view requires a short hike. It is not a cake walk, but not super hard either. You need to be careful as it is steep and a bit slippery, especially when wet. But the adventure is well worth the view, wouldn't you agree :)
In every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks. – John Muir One of the easiest ways to unload, unwind and de-stress is to get out and connect with nature. Natural environments are rich in the characteristics necessary for the brain to replenish itself.
