Grandfather Mountain Adventure

4th Place, 2011

Grandfather Mountain, NC

          The most amazing views of the trip came at the end of the day after we crossed the mile high swinging bridge.  The mountains, full of lustrous colors, simply breathed warmth. The hills were full of Mountain Ash berries and thousand year old rock gardens. 

(remember to click to enlarge)

Surrounding Areas

           Everyday we ate at the Banner Elk Cafe, which was also joined with the Lodge.  At this cute place with wooden table and outdoor music on Saturday night, they gave you two menus to select from with everything from seafood to creamy pasta.  I would advise anyone to try their chili and cornbread.  A cup is only $3 and is the perfect snack or meal to soothe the soul.
           Our trip was made cozy by the Best Western, Banner Elk Mountain Lodge, which is highly recommend.  Feather beds, pet friendly for an affordable price at the peak tourist season.  Evergreens was a small bar and restaurant that was located in the hotel, which had cheap drinks and eat and kept our bellies warm on a cold night after venturing all day.
          On my next trip to the North Carolina mountains I want to pick apples at the 102 year old orchard of Altapass and hike to the Chimney Rock waterfalls, but you can only do so much in three days.  'Til the next place...