I love getting to escape to the Blue Ridge Parkway and immerse in nature. If you have been following me for a while, you have probably seen ‘the Dragon Tree’ that I go visit any chance I get. This uniquely formed/shaped birch spurs lots of debate whether or not this tree is a native American marker tree. It was common for trees to be formed into unique shapes to indicate water sources, which is on the way to Skinny Dip Falls so it would make sense that it was used for that. There are many people that feel that this tree is not old enough to be an actual marker tree used by the tribes, but regardless, it is obvious that this uniquely shaped growth pattern was not by happenstance. If you want to go see the dragon, hit the Blue Ridge Parkway and go to mile marker 417, park at the Looking Glass Rock overlook, and take the trail across the road for a few hundred yards and you will see it.
Several miles up the road from there is Graveyard Fields, one of my favorite places to visit along the parkway, especially in fall. The views along the parkway are ever changing and never cease to amaze me, resetting my soul every single time. The fall colors are just starting to show, inspiring me to need to return soon. Keep your eyes peeled as you walk as there is a lot of life thriving in this special place. We happened to see a native brown snake (Storeria dekayi) with the most beautiful scale pattern along the trail. As far as venomous snakes in the area, copperheads and timber rattlers are native in the mountains of NC, so be sure to pay attention where you step on your adventures. If you visit, please know that tropical storm Fred caused all kinds of damage, the most obvious here being the footbridge over the lower falls has been shifted – it is still stable but worth being extra careful. There are lots of stairs on this trek if going to the lower falls. The forest service has done an amazing job working to preserve the delicate ecosystem by building walkways and steps throughout this spectacular area.
If you get a chance to visit the area, I definitely suggest visiting both of these spots near Brevard, North Carolina. Please remember to leave no trace when you adventure so we can all work together to conserve and preserve these lands for generations to come.
I hope you enjoy getting to vicariously join me on this fun little photo adventure! Happy fall!