I just read this and this. Powerful stuff.

Happy Independence Day

God bless America.
My home, sweet home!

Leconte via Alum Cave Bluff

So I got a little shutter happy Friday on my second hike to the top of Mt. Leconte. We took the Alum Cave Bluffs Trail and enjoyed it immensely. It was a hazy day so the visibility doesn't do justice to the views, but I had a great time anyway. I am interested in staying at the lodge, but they are booked through the season already. Maybe next year! Hope you enjoy the snaps.

Taking a moment at inspiration point.


This squirrel had some serious nuts.


Lunchin' at the lodge

The morning started off a little misty


Which burned off gradually


and then the haze settled in


The clouds rushed in through the trees at Grassy Slide


The primitive shelter at the top of Leconte

Good reason to stop hiking


Taking a break at Cliff Tops


Mountainside with flame azaleas in bloom


I like the little tree that grew with the mountain updraft


Watching the storm roll in

Top of the mountain!

The edge of the cliff--fastest way down the mountain!

Going back down

Note hand wire on the left side of the trail. Necessary.





The Alum Caves