Bearwallow Mountain is visible from down below in the valley. The bare summit is covered with antennas. We tried to go a year or two ago, but the access was forbidden to the public. There were enough signs clearly directed to hikers. However Hubby learned from friends that the trail was now open, perfect for an end of day hike.
Par cette belle journee d'automne c’était un vrai plaisir. Les arbres commencent a changer de couleurs, l'air est frais, le soleil crée une magnifique lumière. Et puis surtout nous étions seuls sur le sentier, profitant du calme de la foret.
The gate no longer holds no access warnings. There is a sign at the beginning of the trail explaining that the owners gave an access easement to the Carolina Land Conservancy for a trail to be created as well as put most of the site under their protection. The trail isn't long: .9 mile going back and forth in the forest towards the summit.
On this beautiful fall day it was a real delight. The trees are changing colors, the air is crisp and sun provided a gorgeous light. Not to mention that we were alone on the trail, enjoying the calm of the forest.
Hubby had a hard time resisting to the boulders that were inviting him to climb along the trail.
The one below made me think of a face with an Aztec nose maybe and hair of lichens and ferns.
The forest was easing up, we were arriving at the summit. But we weren't alone, eyes were looking at us with curiosity...
A small herd of cows feeds at the summit, I think they help to maintain the low vegetation. As for us, it was mostly the view that kept us on the summit for a while.
To the right of the antennas (and the former fire tower) there is a beautiful oak tree forest. I could easily see myself opening up a picnic at the feet of the trees, admire the view while enjoying the sun and the breeze.
To go back down we decided to do a loop by following the forest road, quite bucolic in this season. No regrets because the hike down was easy and mostly we got a fun show by two little chipmunks. Those little critters always make me smile.
A small tradition to finish with: every time we go in the Hickory Nut Gap Gorgea area, we stop by the Flying Cloud Farm self serve, honor system, produce stand. The farmers trust people to pay the correct price and leave with their goods. I couldn't help but think about our child to be. I can't wait for him/her to be old enough to follow this tradition with us.
To go hike, stop by, pick some produce together, teach the Lil'One to respect the produce and those who grow them by leaving the right price. To teach trust and respect...