Photo(s) of the Week # 13

October, 2009

Grayson Highlands State Park, VA

Sugarland Overlook

(Note the massive Christmas tree farm!)

(Wild pony near Mt. Rogers)

Both photos by George Moore (Genesis Studio Photography)

Nor'easter on the Mountain!

This Just In.... 60 mph winds - Sir Evan Blown Off the Mountain!

Hyperbole is my claim to fame. Okay, so I wasn't blown off the mountain, but boy was the wind strong up there! My Dad and I didn't make it too far up Mount Rogers, but we did explore Massie's Gap, where this video takes place. Check it out!

There's a lot more to come, but since I don't have the time to write up a full article just yet, here are a few more photos from our adventure.

(Dad taking photos in the Virginia Highlands:
Note the mist creeping over the mountain...)

(The Aviators are no more *deep sigh* ~ Suppose these "Mountain Shades" will have to do...)

(Who wouldn't want a log cabin on the side of a mountain?!)

Sneak Peak: Early Autumn Adventure with Dad

Smell the Woodsmoke and Taste the Glory of the Mountains!

Sir Evan here! Just got back from an adventure with my Dad in Southwest Virginia, where we explored the backcountry near Abingdon and Damascus and also made our way to Grayson Highlands State Park. The weather was uncooperative initially but cleared up this morning, providing us with some spectacular views of the Virginia highlands. From the photo, you can see how the vegetation is further along at the higher altitudes. We were blown away by the vibrant colors. Anyhow, more to come soon, so keep your eye on the horizon!

(Sugarland Overlook, Grayson Highlands State Park, VA)

Over the Mountains and Through the Woods, to Good 'Ole Virginia I Go!

October is Hiking Season...

On Friday, October 9th, I'm heading to Mount Rogers to meet my friend, Dan Stevens, on the Appalachian Trail. Some of you might remember that I mentioned "Cancer Takes a Hike" a while back. Well, Dan is spearheading this 'expedition,' in memory of his brother, Andy Stevens, another friend from my Blue Ridge days and a fierce spirit who we all miss dearly. Andy was still with us during Cancer Takes a Hike '08. The hiking endeavor was his dream, and he worked tirelessly to make it happen, garnering support from major sponsors, such as Mountain Hardwear, Suunto, the Potomac Appalachian Trail Club, Blue Ridge Mountain Sports, MSR, and Thermarest, among others.

(Andy "Chemosabe" Stevens)

In 2009, Andy is hiking alongside us in spirit! Many friends and fellow hikers will join Dan on his 165 mile backpacking journey, meeting up with him at random places along the trail. This year I am glad to be joining Dan for nearly 3 full days!, since I could only participate for one day last year. Others will be joining us from Friday night to Monday morning, including my old college roommate, Josh Brown!

(Cancer Takes A Hike '08)

Be sure to take a look at the Cancer Takes a Hike website (link above), as it details more information about Andy Stevens, his passion for the outdoors, and his determination to fight colon cancer. There you will also find a mileage calendar so you can track Dan's progress, a list of the '09 participants (which is not up-to-date just yet), and information on how to donate to the Colon Cancer Alliance if you feel so inclined.

Stay tuned for a full trip report in the coming weeks, and get outside, too, if you can. October is hiking season!