The best part of the Tanawha Trail is the section between Rough Ridge and Stackrocks. So why don't we just hike that section, in both directions. It is a seven mile jaunt without terribly strenuous terrain. It is a lot of rocks and roots.
This meetup hike is being led by longtime friend Jean Hylton. Wait a sec, it is being led by me. As we pull into the parking area, Jean tells me I am leading it. I have to assume she has deferred to my seniority as a longtime hiker and amateur naturalist. Or was it just her abrasive personality (hope she doesn't read blogs)?
It was a great start. We see lots of wildflowers and I only misidentify a few. Here we have Catawba Rhododendron and Sand Myrtle. There is lots of Clintonia, Umbrella Leaf and a single Pink Lady Slipper among the usual suspects.
Amid the wonderful rock formations I have digitally captured some of nature's tree art.
There is a short side trail off Tanawha Trail which leads to this wonderful view of Linn Cove Viaduct. Only Jean and I took a moment to visit this spot. We met a biker from Florida taking in the view too. It is probably the best view of the Viaduct I know of.
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