Friday, November 8, 2013

Day 35 Nov 6 - Junior ranger Rosalie, another hike, a bit further, a bit easier - Grotto Falls

The junior ranger in our group has been busy again, badge number 5. This one from the Great Smokey Mountains national park.

The girl has been studying and learning about the parks and what they have to offer. Said it before and saying it again, the junior ranger program is a great one to get the kids involved in.

After the swearing in and the requisite ceremony we headed off to Grotto Falls for an afternoon hike back and up to the water falls. It was about 1.4 miles one way, up most of the way but not such an elevation rise as is the Clingmans Dome trail. When you arrive at the falls you can stand behind the falls and pretend your hiding out. Ok, so it's not all that large, still a nice view when one arrives.

Wildlife sighted: On the return trip, a team of pack lamas returning from resupplying a wilderness camp further along the trail. They move fast and quietly, they almost ran over us before we knew they were there.

Another tail gate lunch and we headed back to camp. We did get turned around in our directions just a bit. Almost made it to North Carolina before we realized we were driving the wrong direction.... Where's that boy scout when you need him????

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