Rocky Knob

Put your hiking shoes on and grab some water, because we're going to the top of Rocky Knob where there are supposed to be some great views of Rock Creek Gorge. Ready? Here we go...

 Stop to get your breath and look back at the view so far.

 This hillside is scattered with big white quartz rocks.

 We are not alone. This first part of the trail goes through a cow pasture, so watch your step.

 I sure hope she's friendly because she's standing right in front of the gate we have to go through.

 Her calf is asleep nearby.

 The next part of the trail goes through the forest, carpeted with ferns.

 It passes through an overlook on the Blue Ridge Parkway.

 The view from here? Not so good.

 Continuing upward we come to an old AT shelter. The Appalachian Trail used to pass through here until the route was changed in the 1950s.

 The fireplace has been filled in with stones.

Bet the view is breathtaking on a clear day. May have to come this way again and see.

 The trail continues upward to the top of Rocky Knob.

 Keep climbing...

 Ok, I think we're near the top, and it's not going to clear up, so we'll go back.

 Since it's not a day for distant views, we'll concentrate on what's close at hand...the Flora and Fauna.

Unidentified wild flower

 Fire Pink

 The Lily-of-the-Valley look-alike shrub.

 The real deal, Lily-of-the-Valley

 Unidentified wild flower

 Fungi

 More unidentified flora

 The Flame Azalea is at its peak in this area

 Another unidentified bush covered with white blossoms.

 Blossoms up close

This deer was in the campground last night, but thought I'd throw her in here.

 Had to look this one up: Mourning Cloak Butterfly

 Flat millipede

 White-breasted Nuthatch

Back at the overlook we can read about Buffalo Mountain.

 And sort of see it.

 The cows are waiting for us at the gate.

 Back through the pasture.

 Back to the campground, where Bandit is waiting for his turn to walk.

 Which is really more like a roll in the grass...but he demands his time.

Ok, rest up, because next we're going to visit the little country town of Floyd.